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Now we know the Maths behind PageRank calculation. PageRank is a way of Google of assigning importance to web pages, so that the high quality web sites get a higher pagerank. It still underlines the same thing – linking. More the number of links to a webpage, higher its pagerank. There is a lot of mathematics jargon, interesting for the interested, otherwise read the following excerpt.
The fundamental idea put forth by PageRank's creators, Sergey Brin and Lawrence Page, is this: the importance of a page is judged by the number of pages linking to it as well as their importance.
Here's how the PageRank is determined. Suppose that page Pj has lj links. If one of those links is to page Pi, then Pj will pass on 1/lj of its importance to Pi. The importance ranking of Pi is then the sum of all the contributions made by pages linking to it.
However, David also mentions things like pagerank obtained elsewhere is in fact an approximation, Google never publishes the actual pagerank.
This can also be considered to be the reason behind all the spam. Spammers try to insert links to the target website so that its pagerank increases. I think, just like other metrics even the pagerank is just an indication of quality and can be manipulated. This algorithm assumes that linking will happen out of liking of a web site, but this can be manipulated using spamming and programs like link exchange. Scoble mentions how Microsoft can be world's greatest SEO. Can there be a better algorithm for calculating and assigning importance to web pages?


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Five week old puppies should be kept warm, nourished and snuggled beside their Mama, not thrown out like garbage in a dirty, feces covered cardboard box. According to a Fox 8 news report, dated March 7, 2014, that is exactly how a litter of puppies were found by a worker in Greensboro N.C. The worker heard noise around the dumpster and discovered five very dirty and cold little puppies and called authorities.
The puppies were rescued by the Guilford County Animal Shelter and seen by a vet. Other than being very cold and dirty, they appear to be okay. If the tiny puppies had remained outside very much longer the outcome might have been worse. The five puppies are believed to be pit or shepherd mix.
If all goes well with these puppies, they will be available for adoption in about three weeks. These little guys were lucky that a worker found them and called for help. Many abandoned puppies are not so lucky when they are thrown out like trash with little regard to their tiny lives.
There are other ways to be rid of unwanted puppies and to give them a chance at life. First and foremost, avoid having puppies by having your pet spayed or neutered. There are many affordable clinics around and a local animal shelter can help find them.
Once the puppies are born, at least allow the mother to care for them until they are old enough to be weaned. If something has happened to the pup's mother don't just throw them out like yesterday's trash. There are others that are willing to take care of them and find them loving homes.
Take them to an animal shelter and ask for help caring for them. Call an animal rescue group. There are many of them listed on Facebook and it will only take a minute to search. Drop them off at a vet's office but be sure you hand them over to someone. Don't just dispose of them and hope someone finds the box you left them in. Time may run out for the helpless little babies.
There are many options to safely "get rid of" unwanted puppies. Leaving them by a dumpster in a dirty box on a cold winter's day is neither safe nor humane. In fact it is considered animal neglect and cruelty. It's also very heartless to allow small puppies to either starve or freeze to death.
In the case of the five abandoned puppies in Greensboro, the police have been contacted and an investigation to determine who dumped them beside the dumpster is underway. For updates on these five little puppies, check the Guilford County Animal Shelters Facebook page. They are also asking for donations to help with their medical needs.

subset: commoncrawl


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There are two ways to get albums and photos displayed in your posts and pages: shortcodes and scripting.
New features may be implemented for the shortcode method only. It is therefor strongly recommended to use the new shortcode method. As per version 5.4 the development of scripting method is frozen and just maintained for backward compatibility reasons.
Although most features are possible with both methods, there are a few technical differences.
Both methods can be mixed. It is recommended to use the new shortcode method for new sites. However there may be problems in combination with other plugins and/or with certain themes.
Shortcode generator
If you use the Visual editor to create posts and pages, you can simply push the album button: Make the selections you want and press the Insert shortcode button.
Detailed info
If you want to know how it works, or you want to know how to modify existing shortcodes or scripts, here is the documentation:
Full documentation of the shortcode method
Full documentation of the scripting method
Differences between shortcodes and scripting
The scripting codes are rendered to the required html to display photos and slideshows with the priority set in Table IX-A5: WPPA+ Filter priority. Default 1001. The higher the number the later in the process of generation the pages html, the wppa+ code is generated.
Standard wp processes run at priority 10. Other plugins may filter the pages data at other (higher = later) priorities and thereby modify (mostly means: damage) the wppa+ code.
To prevent this, the default priority setting is very high: 1001.
The new shortcode method renderes the html for wppa+ while wp ( the theme ) executes do_shortcode(), what is done at filter priority 11. In any case later than wpautop() whics is the most likely source for damaging wppa+ code.
If a theme or another plugin executes wpautop() a second time, at a later stage (higher priority) thais may cause problems. In such cases, it is recommended to use the 'classic' scripting code, using %%wppa%%.


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Laura Jacobs moved into Rocky River's Old River Shopping District six years ago, when the strip of shops housed in century-old brick buildings wasn't a very attractive destination.
Jacobs' make-your-own-jewelry shop, Embellish, was a gem in a relatively stark setting. The street was wide with hardly a flower or landscaping to be found.
"There was a lot more asphalt," says Kory Koran, Rocky River's economic and community development director. "There were no benches or litter containers."
So the city spent $500,000 to widen the sidewalks for outdoor dining and easy strolling. It added wrought-iron benches, garden planters, 15-foot arbors with "Old River" spelled out in bright gold letters, and tall, black cast-iron streetlights that harken back to the era when the Detroit-Rocky River bridge was one of the largest masonry arches in America.
"The streetscape gave a great boost of vibrancy and cohesiveness to the district," says Jacobs. "It brought the shops, restaurants and businesses closer together."
These days, Old River includes boutiques, galleries and popular eateries such as Rosso Gelato and Tartine Bistro, Wine Bar & Café, which is housed in the former city hall. The $10 million, 11 River townhome development overlooking the Rocky River has sprung up just around the corner.
Jacobs, who decided to live in Rocky River two years after opening Embellish, says residents embrace and support local businesses. Many of her customers live within walking distance in beautiful colonial houses with lake views, nearby parks and access to private beaches.
Rocky River's highly ranked schools, host of community amenities and walkable neighborhoods add to the appeal. Uniting the Old River Shopping District with newer areas such as the redesigned Beachcliff Market Square has been a "long struggle," according to Koran, but it feels more like a unified downtown.
"We now have a Downtown River scheme to connect these areas," says Koran. "We have a lot going on."
And that's good news for residents like Jacobs. "There are such neat historical references here," says Jacobs. "This area of Rocky River is so cute and quaint and has a local flavor that's appreciated."
"The houses have lots of character. They are older homes, and over the years, many people have maintained and improved them. They've always retained their character," says Howard Hanna's Julie Weist of the Beachcliff and Battersea neighborhood. "A lot of people belong to the Yacht Club, which is a draw there. The houses have been selling quickly. ... They're on the incline for sure."
Battersea Boulevard
Asking price: $279,900
Selling price: $265,000
Square feet: 3,009
No. of bedrooms: 5
No. of bathrooms: 3
Time on the market: 401 days
Good Neighbor: While Crocker Park is already Westlake's largest taxpayer and its most valuable commercial area, it isn't done growing. A second phase will add additional residential units, parking garages and a drastically increased office component, including American Greetings' headquarters, which could bring in more than 1,500 jobs by the end of 2014. "It'll be a stronger, more sustainable downtown," says Mayor Dennis Clough. "If you bring 1,500 employees into the area, they might move in [to Westlake] over time." The increase in tax revenue from Crocker Park's growth will help keep Westlake's already strong schools resilient.
Like-Minded city: Euclid understands its assets. So the East Side suburb is working to transform both its downtown and its lakefront. The first phase of downtown redevelopment brought a $14.7 million investment. Another phase will make the busy areas at East 222nd Street, Lakeshore Boulevard and Babbitt Road easier to navigate. "You want downtowns to be more pedestrian friendly," Mayor Bill Cervenik says. "You want off-street parking so they can get into shops and restaurants." The city is also enhancing its lakefront park with an expanded pier and handicapped-accessible trail. Four new elementary school are being built, too.
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About Olarn ChaipravatOlarn Chaipravat is Advisor to the Prime Minister, President of Thailand Trade Representative. He previously served as Deputy Prime Minister of Thailand. He obtained his PhD in economics from Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
Lessons for the eurozone from Asia
By Olarn Chaipravat. Posted August 13, 2012
In analysing the European financial crisis, Asia's experience with the 1997 Asian financial crisis is a useful point of reference. After the forced devaluation of the Thai baht, encouraged by the People's Republic of China (PRC) and Japan, Thailand was compelled to accept the IMF-imposed austerity programs. As part of the contagion that followed the baht crisis, Indonesia and the Republic of Korea also accepted the IMF program. As the IMF's prescriptions reduced aggregate demand and contained no "pro-growth" elements, they worsened the crisis in these Asian countries. In contrast, Malaysia rejected the IMF's prescriptions. The different experiences of these crisis-hit Asian economies led to a change in thinking on the productiveness of "straight" austerity programs as a response to the financial crises. Austerity policies were relaxed and pro-growth policies introduced, which in combination, helped Asia to recover from its financial crisis. Read more.
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Founded in 1986, FSG Electric is a full-service electrical contractor providing electrical service, project management, electrical engineering, and electrical construction for general contractors, design build firms, national retail accounts, facility managers, and building owners. Company services also include data cabling, thermography, aerial lighting service and rappelling.
FSG Electric offers 24-hour emergency service and an extensive fleet of service vans, sign trucks, bucket trucks and cranes operated by a highly trained, professional staff. Additionally, our energy audits and lighting retrofits help customers identify lost profit due to inefficient electrical systems, adding directly to our customers' bottom line.


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The Transfer - Recap
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The episode begins with "Hit List" having moved to Broadway. Jimmy has become somewhat of a celebrity, with people on the street keen to get his autograph and take a picture with him. Karen and Ana are also really excited with the transition. During the previews, Ana has a few goof ups and Jimmy isn't happy about it. Karen isn't too worried though and says they will all be ready once it's time for the real thing. Lindsay Mendez is rehearsing with Tom for her song that she's singing at Houston and Levitt night. After Lindsay has left, Eileen tells Tom, how important it is that he and Julia present a united front at the Houston and Levitt night.
Tom assures Eileen they will. While heading for Table 46, Ivy and Karen run into each other on the street. They both make a promise that even if things get crazy during award season, they wouldn't let that come between them. At Table 46, while Julia is having a talk with Derek and Jimmy about "Hit List", Eileen and Tom, who have just arrived, ask to talk to her. After taking Julia aside, Eileen voices her worry that Julia and Tom aren't spending enough time together because Julia is spending all the time with the competition (Hit List). Eileen to resolve this issue suggests that Julia and Tom together sing a song at the concert. After initially protesting, Julia eventually gives in and agrees. Derek has a talk with his assistant about the mistakes Ana is making.
He decides to give Ana the next night off and bring Daisy in to perform the part of the Diva. He then walks up to Daisy and whispers in her ear that things have been taken care of. The next day, Jimmy and Julia look to Kyle for inspiration in order to make changes in the show that would help "Hit List" connect better with the audience. At home, Ana is worried that she is being replaced by Daisy. Karen calms her down, saying her worries are unfounded and Derek has only given her some time off. Karen even volunteers to have a talk with Derek to clarify things. At the auditorium, while Daisy is rehearsing for Ana's part, Karen walks up to Derek for a chat. During the course of the conversation, Karen realizes that Derek is planning to replace Ana. She tries to argue, saying Ana is perfect for the part of the Diva.
Derek counters that he is only doing what he thinks is good for the show. Karen isn't at all happy with Derek's decision. While Tom is having a talk with Ivy; Eileen and Agnes arrive, and inform him that someone has leaked to the press that he and Julia have split. Agnes says this news isn't good for the publicity of "Bombshell". Eileen is also mad that Julia is always absent because she is so involved with "Hit List". Jimmy and Julia arrive at Kyle's apartment. Julia shows Jimmy a bunch of cue cards kept on a shelf there. She says Kyle had written many of his ideas on those cards. According to Julia, some of those ideas were fascinating, which is why she wanted Jimmy to go through them.
After going through a few of the ideas, Julia and Jimmy come across an idea which they both like. They plan to try and incorporate the idea into the show, scheduled for the night. Ana tells Karen she has learnt from her agent that Daisy was one of the 6 dancers who accused Derek of sexual harassment. She has also learnt that the lawsuit was mysteriously dropped. Ana feels Daisy is blackmailing Derek for her (Ana) role. At the concert, Tom is waiting for Julia to arrive. Julia is busy with Jimmy trying to incorporate the change, but assures Tom over the phone that she will make it to the concert. Before Ivy goes onstage for her performance, Eileen gives her a pep talk, saying she isn't a Norma Jean, but Marilyn. After Ivy is done with her performance, the audience loudly applauds and cheers for her. Agnes and Eileen are pleased with the audience reaction.
After Karen confronts Derek, he reluctantly admits that he recently slept with Daisy and even promised her a role in return for her sleeping with him. She recorded their conversation and blackmailed him, which is why he was forced to give her Ana's role. Karen is disgusted by the whole thing and gives Derek a piece of her mind. During the performance, the audience loves Kyle's idea incorporated into the show by Jimmy and Julia. At the concert, just as Tom is about to give up hope, Julia arrives. With Tom playing the piano, Julia gives a heartfelt performance. She during the performance recalls the years she and Tom spent, working together. At one point during the performance, when she is overcome with emotions, Tom joins her in singing.
Eileen watches the performance with a satisfied smile on her face. At the end of the performance, the audience gives the duo a standing ovation. Tom and Julia hug each other. At the concert after-party, Agnes tells Eileen that she has just learnt that it was she who leaked the news about the Tom and Julia split. Eileen admits that she did and Agnes lauds this move by Eileen because she feels it would help them garner the sympathy votes for the Tonys. After the show, Karen congratulates Jimmy for a job well done. She wants to say something more, but before she can, Jimmy walks away after thanking her and wishing a goodnight. At the after-party, Tom and Julia wonder if they are doing the right thing by parting ways.
Eventually though, they both concede that their decision to split might prove to be a good thing in the long run. After Tom walks away, Julia gets a call from Jimmy. He tells her how great the show went and says she has to help him write some new stuff for the show. She refuses, saying she isn't comfortable doing that. Jimmy realizes that Julia is refusing because of the fact that she now wants to focus on "Bombshell". At the bar, Derek tells Ana and Karen that Jerry loved Daisy's performance, so he can't take her off the show. Karen urges Derek to call Daisy's bluff, saying she will never release the tapes. Derek counters that he can't take that risk. Ana expresses her outrage, but Derek walks away after refusing to talk about this issue any further.
After Derek walks out, Ivy enters. Ana walks up to Ivy, who is having a chat with Sam. She tells Ivy that she was fired just like Karen was last year because Derek at that point was sleeping with her (Ivy). Before Ana can finish making her point, Ivy asks Ana, as to who told her about her (Ivy) sleeping with Derek. Ana confesses it was Karen. Ivy isn't too pleased on learning this. She walks up to Karen and reprimands her, accusing her of playing dirty tricks right before the award season. Karen pleads innocence, but Ivy refuses to believe her. After Karen walks away, Ivy receives a call from her doctor, saying her blood test results are in and she is pregnant. The episode ends at this point.
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The newly updated Sun Certified Java Programmer (SCJP) exam remains one of the toughest certification exams in the industry. To pass it, you need an extraordinary study guide: this one.
First, it's authored by Kathy Sierra and Bert Bates. We've long admired them for their amazing clarity and their warm, welcoming, even funny style. Turns out they're more than great writers: They're co-creators of the SJCP exam. They know its areas of emphasis (and its gotchas) better than anyone.
Of course, this book covers every exam objective, from operators to objects, from generics and collections to inner classes and threads. It's also packed with learning tools. Sidebars highlighting questions programmers ask in live prep courses. "On the Job" callouts. Exercises everywhere. Realistic self-tests throughout. Two complete sample exams. Add it up, and this is one of the best exam prep guides we've ever seen. Bill Camarda, from the March 2006 Read Only


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Wednesday, July 26, 2006
Happy 4th anniversary to Gord and I!
12 comments:
- Isabel said...
Happy Anniversary! So what did you do for your anniversary. Well besides that. lol
- 26 July 2006 at 00:43
- Sarah said...
Happy Anniversary to you and Gord! I remember very well when that picture was taken! Four years have flown by!
- 26 July 2006 at 07:02
- Lizardm33 said...
Happy 4th Anniversary to the happy couple. What is the appropriate gift for 4 years anyway. Are Dream Puffs on the offical list? :)
Congrats to you both.
- 26 July 2006 at 07:08
- Fleur De Lisa said...
Happy Anniversary and Belated Birthday to you Teena! How cool that they are one day apart. :-)
- 26 July 2006 at 07:09
- Dawn said...
happy anniversary to both of you :)
- 26 July 2006 at 11:14
Rumrunners one happy fellow:}
- 26 July 2006 at 13:06
- ames said...
Happy anniversary again!
Any special plans?
- 26 July 2006 at 13:09
- CrazyRideLady said...
Congratulations and Happy Birthday! It's a pretty good week for you!!
- 26 July 2006 at 13:22
- Zoey Castelino said...
Wow... 2002... my life was falling apart at that exact time, so it's nice to see such a wonderful and joyous occasion that happened.
It just goes to show that even when things are down, there are still beautiful moments that happen in life.
You have many more amazing years ahead of you together. Best wishes always
- 26 July 2006 at 15:49
- RennyBA said...
Woow, what a day! Both birthday and 4th anniversary at the same day. Greetings all away from Norway too!
Could you please do me a favore? I'm nominated to Bloggs of Summer and it would be nice if you invite all your friends over to vote for me:-)
- 26 July 2006 at 17:37
- Season said...
Wow... Happy Anniversary! What a happy time.
- 26 July 2006 at 21:54
- Teena said...
Thanks everyone for your best wishes :) We had a lovely celebration!
- 26 July 2006 at 23:07


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Hide / Show Transcript ( + / - )
Chris: Hi, my name is Chris. I'm from the United States.
Phoebe: Hi, my name is Phoebe and I'm from China.
Chris: Our question is should food have warning labels? I definitely think so. Think about all the awful things that are in food, especially processed food like high fructose corn syrup and other things that are so bad for you. I mean consumers need to be empowered by having access to this kind of information, don't you think so?
Phoebe: Yes, I think I totally agree with you but I think this kind of thing is they put labels only on the fast food but let's think in China you don't have a lot of fast food. You go to a restaurant, in China we like hot teas, hot soup and they bring you something really hot, they're not going to put a label on the bowl so sometimes you don't know you just drink it. One time what happened to me, my tongue was totally hurt and I couldn't enjoy the rest of the meal so what would you do in that case?
Chris: They could put the nutritional facts on the menu.
Phoebe: That might work.
Chris: Maybe that's a good idea.
Keep Listening and Learning:
#1225 Praising Kids in School
#1224 Were your parents strict?
#1223 What kind of parent will you be?
#1222 Have you ever found something valuable?
#1221 Stranded on an Island
#1220 Metrosexual
#1219 Is it OK for men to cry in your country?
#1218 What subjectd did you hate?
#1217 What kind of learner are you?
#1216 Breaking bad Habits
#1215 Bad Habits
#1214 What's the best party you've been to?
#1213 A Simple Wedding
#1212 Are people in your country pretty fit?
#1211 Where would you like to hike?
#1210 What is your worst experience?
#1209 Have you ever been turned down for something?
#1208 Is MMA too violent?
#1207 What do you think about boxing?
#1206 What do you think about boxing?
#1205 Have you done marital arts?
#1204 Traditional Dance
#1203 What can you cook well?
#1202 Do you think protests work?
#1201 Protests


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Oakville Events
Iroquois Ridge Holiday Marketplace Craft Show
Latest Poll
Should the Town spend $30M-$100M on Downtown Oakville?
10:00 AM, Saturday, November 06, 2010 to 04:00 PM
Iroquois Ridge High School proudly presents it's Annual Holiday Marketplace Craft Show. Features over 70 artisans. Free Admission.
Where: 1123 Glenashton Drive, Oakville, Ontario, Canada


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There was frustration for Steven Gerrard, Glen Johnson and Daniel Sturridge while Daniel Agger found the back of the net on a busy night of international football on Tuesday.
Gerrard and Johnson started England's World Cup 2014 qualifier with Montenegro at the Podgorica City stadium - with Sturridge an unused substitute - and the Three Lions made a dream start to the Group H clash.
Indeed, Gerrard provided the corner for Wayne Rooney to head in a sixth-minute opener as the visitors dominated the first 45 minutes.
However, Montenegro were much improved after the break and duly equalised through Dejan Damjanovic with 14 minutes remaining to clinch a 1-1 draw and ensure they remained two points clear at the top of the group.
Afterwards, captain Gerrard reflected: "We stopped playing after the break for 20/30 minutes and away from home you can't afford to do that.
"We stopped passing the ball and that's when we lost control. They deserved the equaliser."
Meanwhile in Group B, Agger rescued a point for Denmark at home to Bulgaria.
Having fallen behind to a goal from Stanislav Manolev just after half-time, the Liverpool centre-back blasted home a penalty to salvage a 1-1 draw - though it doesn't do much for the Dane's hopes of qualifying for the finals as they're now seven points off leaders Italy.
Over in Paris, Pepe Reina was an unused substitute as reigning champions Spain recorded a 1-0 win over France.
Elsewhere, Martin Skrtel figured for the first half as Slovakia and Sweden played out a goalless draw in an international friendly.
Stay logged on to Liverpoolfc.com on Wednesday for further reaction from the international fixtures including photographs and details of how Uruguay fared against Chile.
Tagged: daniel agger , daniel sturridge , denmark , england , glen johnson , internationals , martin skrtel , pepe reina , steven gerrard


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- Visit the Aquarium
- Animals & Exhibits
- Fun & Learning
- Aquatic Research
Saturday, February, 22, 2014 10:00pm-2:30pm
Join Mystic Aquarium education & conservation staff for this unique family friendly seal adventure program. First, program participants will head out into the Long Island Sound in search of our local seal species. Then, the group will head back to the Aquarium to learn about the marine mammal stranding facility and through hands-on activities, the steps staff take to rehabilitate these animals.
* Registration required, no children under 6 years of age allowed on boat and all children 17 years of age and younger must be accompanied by an adult
Cost: Members: $30/adult, $25/child
Non-member: $35 adult/$30 child
Click here to register!
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55 Coogan Blvd., Mystic, CT 06355-1997 | [email protected]


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2010-11 WHL EASTERN CONFERENCE PREVIEWWed Sep 22
Calgary, AB. -- The WHL opens its 45th regular season on Friday, September 24th as the WHL Champion Calgary Hitmen begin defense of their title against Central Division rivals the Lethbridge Hurricanes at the Saddledome, along with seven other regular season games scheduled.
As the 2010-11 season draws closer, fans can look forward to many exciting storylines: Will there be a 50 goal scorer this season? Who will shine among the rookies this year? Who will take this year's scoring title? And which team will prevail as Ed Chynoweth Cup – WHL Champions?
Please find below a team-by-team WHL Eastern Conference preview for the 2010-11 WHL season.
East Division
Brandon Wheat Kings
General Manager / Head Coach: Kelly McCrimmon
2010 pre-season: 4gp, 3-1-0-0
2009-10 Record: 50-18-1-3, 104 pts (1st in East Div., 2nd in Conf.) GF: 321 GA: 204
2009-10 Power Play / Penalty Killing ranking: PP 9th (21.9%) PK 17th (76.8%)
2010 Playoffs: Lost in five games to Calgary in WHL Eastern Conference Final.
2009-10 Top Scorers:
Matt Calvert 68gp-47g-52a-99pts
Brayden Schenn 59gp-34g-65a-99pts
Scott Glennie 66gp-32g-57a-89pts
Up Front: The Wheat Kings lose a large number of forwards from last season's offensive juggernaut, but still return a few key pieces to their attack, including Dallas Stars prospect Scott Glennie, who has put up an impressive 217 points over his three WHL seasons in Brandon. Brayden Schenn could be back in the fold, should he not stick with the Los Angeles Kings. If Schenn returns, bet on him being among the WHL scoring leaders yet again. Also returning are veterans Shayne Wiebe and Mark Stone, who will both be expected to take on a bulk of the offensive load. Sophomores Brenden Walker and Jesse Sinatynski will step up into bigger roles for the Wheat Kings this season, as will Calgary Flames' 2010 draft pick Michael Ferland. 20-year-old David Toews, the brother of Chicago Blackhawks star Jonathan Toews, should have in impact after joining the Wheat Kings from the NCAA's University of North Dakota.
On The Blue Line: Similar to their forward situation, the Wheaties lose a number of big names on the blue line from last year's team, including veterans Colby Robak and Travis Hamonic, and Swedish standout Alex Urbom. Returning veterans Brodie Melnychuk, Mark Schneider and Darren Bestland all have 100+ games of WHL experience, meaning they will lead what will be a younger Wheat Kings' blue line this season. Sophomore Ryley Miller will need to take on a bigger role this season while continuing to provide toughness and a physical presence.
Goaltending: Jacob DeSerres and Andrew Hayes, both 20, return to the fold, ensuring the Wheat Kings have a veteran presence in the net. However, it's not likely that the team will keep two 20-year-old goaltenders, meaning a spot will open up for one of the talented youngsters waiting in the wings. 18-year-old Ty Rimmer got into one game last season for the Wheat Kings, but 17-year-olds Liam Liston and Corbin Boes are also candidates for a spot on the roster.
Player to Watch: Mark Stone
The graduation of several of the Wheat Kings' top offensive players opens the door for the likes of Mark Stone to step into a much bigger role. The 6'3", 200-lb Winnipeg, MB, product enters his third WHL season after being selected by the Ottawa Senators in the 2010 NHL Entry draft. A big-bodied, gritty player in the power forward mold, Stone boasts a good shot, solid puck skills and a willingness to go to the net. Having already put up good numbers in a more limited role over the last two seasons, expect Stone to become a regular contributor on the score sheet for the Wheat Kings this season.
Moose Jaw Warriors
Director, Hockey Operations: Alan Millar
Head Coach: Dave Hunchak
2010 pre-season: 7gp, 5-2-0-0
2009-10 Record: 33-27-5-7, 78 pts (4th in East Div., 8th in Conf.) GF: 243 GA: 247
2009-10 Power Play / Penalty Killing ranking: PP 6th (23.4%) PK 16th (77.2%)
2010 Playoffs: Lost in seven games to Calgary in first round.
2009-10 Top Scorers:
Quinton Howden 65gp-28g-37a-65pts
Jason Bast 60gp-33g-31a-64pts
Brendan Rowinski 68gp-30g-31a-61pts
Up Front: Even though the Warriors lose heart & soul veteran Jason Bast to graduation, the team returns an impressive group of forwards that will ensure a dangerous offense in Moose Jaw. Leading scorer Quinton Howden is back to lead the attack. The Florida Panthers' first-rounder is poised for a dominant campaign after averaging a point per game last season. Also back are Brendan Rowinski, Dylan Hood and Thomas Frazee, who all topped the 20-goal mark last year. All three, along with Spencer Edwards, are 20 years old, meaning the Warriors have good options to fill out their overage contingent. Sophomore Antonin Honejsek should step into a larger role this season while Czech rookie Michal Hlinka has impressed in pre-season play, and adds more scoring depth to a strong forward unit.
On The Blue Line: The Warriors shaved off 105 goals-against last season from the previous season thanks to an improved, more experienced defense. With up to five defensemen returning from last year's team, plus the addition of veteran Collin Bowman from Kelowna, the Warriors should continue to improve defensively this season. NHL-drafted rearguards Dylan McIlrath and Kendall McFaull, and returning blue liners Connor Cox and Dallas Ehrhardt are all back and looking to build on last season's improvements. Promising rookie Morgan Reilly also looks capable of contributing. Already a physical force and intimidating presence, McIlrath will be expected to increase his contributions offensively this season while continuing to play his punishing style. Adding Bowman from the Rockets gives the Warriors plenty of playoff experience on the blue line.
Goaltending: The Warriors parted ways with last season's starter, Jeff Bosch, while bringing in 20-year-old veteran Thomas Heemskerk from Everett to take on the top job. Heemskerk provides the Warriors with top-caliber goaltending, considering he led all WHL netminders in save percentage last season. With last season's back-up Brandon Glover not returning, 17-year-old rookie Brandon Stone will slot into the back-up role this season.
Player to Watch: Dylan McIlrath
A solid defensive defenseman, McIlrath has built a reputation as one of the toughest and most intimidating blue liners in the WHL. Selected 10th overall by the New York Rangers at the 2010 NHL draft, McIlrath has a big frame, huge wing span, and can hit like a freight train. Yet, he also boasts fluid skating skills and footwork for such a big presence. As strong a presence as he is in his own zone, McIlrath has untapped offensive potential which began to emerge towards the end of last season.
Prince Albert Raiders
General Manager / Head Coach: Bruno Campese
2010 pre-season: 4gp, 2-1-0-1
2009-10 Record: 32-35-3-2, 69 pts (5th in East Div., 9th in Conf.) GF: 230 GA: 249
2009-10 Power Play / Penalty Killing ranking: PP 14th (18.3%) PK 8th (80.9%)
2010 Playoffs: Did not qualify
2009-10 Top Scorers:
Craig McCallum 72gp-27g-45a-72pts
Brandon Herrod 70gp-37g-28a-65pts
Dustin Cameron 71gp-30g-27a-57pts
Up Front: The Raiders lost two of their top three scorers from last year to graduation and dealt their fifth-leading scorer, Ryan Harrison, to Medicine Hat. However, the team returns offensive power in the form of 37-goal man Brandon Herrod and 27-goal man Igor Revenko. Both veterans will be counted on to equal or better their offensive numbers from last season. Also back is talented pivot Justin Maylan and sophomore Mark McNeill. McNeill could step into a much larger offensive role for the Raiders this season after a good showing as a 16-year-old last year. 17-year-old Todd Fiddler, acquired in the Ryan Harrison trade, could add offensive punch to the Raiders after posting 44 goals and 93 points to lead the Saskatchewan Midget AAA League last season, while promising 16-year-old Mike Winther heads up a solid group of young guns in Prince Albert.
On The Blue Line: The Raiders return up to six rearguards from last season, including veterans Jordan Rowley, Nathan Deck and Ryan Button. Those three vets combined for 23 goals and 120 points last season from the point, and should be able to produce offense again this season from the blue line. Also back are sophomores Emerson Hrynyk, Tyler Yaworski and Harrison Ruopp, who should see more responsibility with a season under their belts. The Raiders owned the WHL's eighth-ranked penalty killing unit last season, but will look to improve their 5-on-5 defensive play in an effort to snap a three-year playoff absence.
Goaltending: Veteran Jamie Tucker, 19, looks to be the main man in the Raiders' net following the graduation of Garrett Zemlak. Tucker was acquired from Vancouver prior to last season's trade deadline and got into 11 games for the Raiders, posting a 4-5 record with a .891 save percentage. He should be able to handle a heavy workload in the Raiders' cage. 17-year-old rookie Eric Williams, the Raiders' fourth-round Bantam pick in 2008, will take over the back-up role.
Player to Watch: Mark McNeill
The Raiders' first-round pick (5th overall) in 2008, McNeill appeared in 68 games as a 16-year-old, potting nine goals and 24 points. The 6'2", 210-lb NHL Draft-eligible center is a highly intelligent player with outstanding hockey sense, and the ability to create time and space for himself and his line mates. Using his big frame and his strong skating and puck skills, McNeill is very good at protecting the puck. A very well-rounded player, McNeill will surely play an important role in the Raiders' offense this season.
Regina Pats
General Manager: Chad Lang
Head Coach: Curtis Hunt
2010 pre-season: 6gp, 1-4-1-0
2009-10 Record: 30-35-3-4, 67 pts (6th in East Div., 10th in Conf.) GF: 246 GA: 278
2009-10 Power Play / Penalty Killing ranking: PP 4th (25.5%) PK 13th (78.6%)
2010 Playoffs: Did not qualify
2009-10 Top Scorers:
Jordan Eberle 57gp-50g-56a-106pts
Jordan Weal 72gp-35g-67a-102pts
Matt Strueby 69gp-37g-22a-59pts
Up Front: With the departure of 2010 WHL Player of the Year Jordan Eberle and veterans Matt Strueby and Brett Leffler, the Pats will need to find a way to replace the 105 combined goals those three provided. Fortunately, the team returns 18-year-old Jordan Weal, fresh off a 35-goal, 102-point campaign, and Tampa Bay Lightning first-rounder Carter Ashton. Weal and Ashton will need to generate a large chunk of offense. Sophomore Hampus Gustafsson should be able to build on a solid rookie campaign where he tallied 14 times, while veteran sparkplug Garrett Mitchell will also need to take on a bigger role offensively in addition to providing leadership and energy. Dane Muench, who got into a handful of games for Swift Current last season, has impressed in pre-season with his goal-scoring prowess. If he can carry that offense into the regular season, he could add valuable scoring depth.
On The Blue Line: The Pats return a number of rearguards from last year's squad. Sophomore Brandon Davidson heads up what will be a young but talented defense corps in Regina. Davidson, a sixth-round pick of the Edmonton Oilers in 2010, impressed as a rookie last season, posting 34 points and a team-leading +15 rating in 59 games. Joining him is veteran Cody Carlson, who put up 28 points in 59 games for the Pats, and sophomores Myles Bell, Tyler Borstmayer, and Mitch Spooner, who should all take on more responsibility this season. Swedish rookie Ricard Blidstrand, a Philadelphia Flyers prospect, has shown he could slide into a top-four spot on the Pats' blue line.
Goaltending: Dawson Guhle and Damien Ketlo, the Pats' goaltending tandem from last season, are both eligible to return. Both Ketlo and Guhle will look to rebound from difficult campaigns last year. The Pats allowed the fourth-highest number of goals last season with 278 goals against, and will definitely need to cut that number down if they are to push their way back into the playoff picture in the Eastern Conference.
Player to Watch: Jordan Weal
Weal enjoyed another outstanding season with the Pats last year, posting 35 goals and 102 points to become the first 17-year-old player to crack the 100-point mark since Pavel Brendl accomplished the feat for Calgary in 1998-99. Picked in the third round (70th overall) by the Los Angeles Kings this summer, Weal has established himself as one of the WHL's premiere playmakers. With the graduation of Jordan Eberle, Weal becomes the centerpiece of the Pats offense for the upcoming season.
Saskatoon Blades
General Manager / Head Coach: Lorne Molleken
2010 pre-season: 6gp, 4-1-0-1
2009-10 Record: 46-19-3-4, 99 pts (2nd in East Div., 3rd in Conf.) GF: 258 GA: 227
2009-10 Power Play / Penalty Killing ranking: PP 19th (16.5%) PK 7th (80.9%)
2010 Playoffs: Lost in six games to Brandon in second round
2009-10 Top Scorers:
Derek Hulak 72gp-31g-53a-84pts
Walker Wintoneak 70gp-25g-49a-74pts
Stefan Elliott 72gp-26g-39a-65pts
Up Front: The Blades may have lost their top two scorers from last season with Derek Hulak and Walker Wintoneak both graduating, but they still have scoring depth among their returning forwards. 20-year-olds Gaelan Patterson, Sena Acolatse, Jeremy Boyer and Marek Viedensky are all eligible to return. However, they are among a group of eight overagers that will need to be whittled down to three by October. Veterans Curtis Hamilton, Josh Nicholls and Darian Dziurzynski return to provide some offense and leadership, while sophomore Brent Benson will look for a bigger role in the offense. Rookies Lukas Sutter, a member of Team USA's Under-18 squad, and skilled 16-year-old Ryan Olsen could step in and have an impact as well.
On The Blue Line: Though the Blades will be younger on the blue line this season, they possess some very talented rearguards that should help keep them among the League's best defensive teams. Led by 20-year-old vet Teigan Zahn, the Blades return five rearguards who played at least 40 games last season. Colorado Avalanche prospect Stefan Elliott should again be among the WHL's top offensive defensemen, while youngsters Duncan Siemens, Dalton Thrower and Tyler Kizuik will take on more responsibility after solid rookie seasons last year.
Goaltending: The Blades return their top tandem from last season, with 20-year-old Steven Stanford and 19-year-old Adam Morrison both back. Stanford has proven his worth as a No.1 goaltender, while Philadelphia Flyers prospect Morrison also has the talent to take on the starting job. Should Stanford or Morrison be moved, 17-year-old Adam Iwan could step in and take on the back-up role.
Player to Watch: Duncan Siemens
The Blades' first-round pick (3rd overall) in the 2008 WHL Bantam Draft, Siemens is considered a top prospect for the 2011 NHL Entry Draft. The 6'3", 192-lb rearguard is a huge physical presence on the blue line, and a player who is very difficult to play against. A fearsome hitter, Siemens punishes opposing forwards and plays a solid game in his own zone. The Sherwood Park, AB, product also possesses strong skating ability and can move the puck effectively. Having enjoyed a strong rookie season as a 16-year-old last year, look for Siemens to establish himself as a key cog on the Blades' blue line this season..
Swift Current Broncos
General Manager / Head Coach: Mark Lamb
2010 pre-season: 7gp, 2-5-0-0
2009-10 Record: 37-30-1-4, 79 pts (3rd in East Div., 7th in Conf.) GF: 231 GA: 232
2009-10 Power Play / Penalty Killing ranking: PP 18th (17.5%) PK 4th (84.0%)
2010 Playoffs: Lost in four games to Brandon in first round
2009-10 Top Scorers:
Cody Eakin 70gp-47g-44a-91pts
Justin Dowling 72gp-32g-46a-78pts
Michael Stickland 69gp-25g-32a-59pts
Up Front: The Broncos return a solid group of forwards who should be able to put pucks in the net this season. Seven of the team's top eight scorers from last year are eligible to return, including 47-goal man Cody Eakin and shifty 20-year-old pivot Justin Dowling, who could both be among the WHL's top scorers this season. Veterans Brad Hoban, Dillon Wagner and Taylor Vause provide nice offensive depth while sophomore Adam Lowry is poised for a bigger role this season after an impressive year as a 16-year-old rookie. 20-year-old Czech Stepan Novotny is also eligible to return, and would add another potent offensive weapon to the Broncos' arsenal should he be in their plans.
On The Blue Line: The Broncos return up to six experienced rearguards from last year's team. The trade of 20-year-old Travis Bobbee leaves 19-year-olds Kyle Verdino and Joel Rogers as the elder statesmen in Swift Current. Verdino and Rogers have 314 combined games of WHL experience between them. 17-year-old sophomore Reece Scarlett, who is eligible for the 2010 NHL Entry Draft, also possesses good offensive skills and could help generate scoring from the back end. Returnees Graeme Craig and Jordan Evans add defensive depth, with Evans having some offensive upside that may help negate the loss of Bobbee. Tanner Muth, acquired in exchange for Bobbee, is another young and promising rearguard. At 6'1", 191-lbs, Muth adds another big body to what will be a physically imposing defense corps in Swift Current.
Goaltending: The Broncos moved 20-year-old veteran Morgan Clark, meaning that fellow overager Mark Friesen will take on the top job in the Broncos' net this season. Friesen has shown he is a very capable goaltender, having posted consistent numbers throughout his WHL career. 17-year-old rookie Austin Smith, the Broncos' second-round pick in 2008, will take over the back-up role.
Player to Watch: Cody Eakin
Eakin established himself as one of the WHL's top players after breaking out for 47 goals and 91 points last season. The 19-year-old Washington Capitals prospect comes into the 2010-11 season having earned a Calder Cup ring after helping the Caps' AHL squad, the Hershey Bears, win the League championship in the spring, following Swift Current's elimination from the playoffs. An exciting player with an intense passion for the game, Eakin regularly wows Broncos fans with his outstanding skating ability and his no-quit work ethic. Expect Eakin to be one of the marquee players in the WHL this season.
Central Division
Calgary Hitmen
General Manager: Kelly Kisio
Head Coach: Mike Williamson
2010 pre-season: 5gp, 0-4-0-1
2009-10 Record: 52-17-1-2, 107 pts (1st in Central Div., 1st in Conf.) GF: 269 GA: 177
2009-10 Power Play / Penalty Killing ranking: PP 1st (29.0%) PK 1st (87.5%)
2010 Playoffs: WHL CHAMPIONS
2009-10 Top Scorers:
Brandon Kozun 65gp-32g-75a-107pts
Tyler Shattock 72gp-30g-48a-78pts
Joel Broda 66gp-39g-34a-73pts
Up Front: The Hitmen return just seven regulars up front from last year's WHL championship team, and only three of their top 10 scorers. 20-year-old veterans Kris Foucault and Tyler Fiddler, and 19-year-old Jimmy Bubnick are the lone returning players who topped the 20-goal mark last season. All three will be heavily relied on for offense and leadership. 18-year-olds Cody Beach and Cody Sylvester enjoyed solid campaigns in support roles last season. Beach and Sylvester, particularly, will be needed to step into much bigger roles, as will fellow 18-year-old MacKenzie Royer. Contributions from rookies like John Lawrence and Brendan Santini will also be needed to fill the offensive void left by the departure of WHL scoring leader Brandon Kozun. Forward Riley Reinbolt was acquired from Moose Jaw to add some veteran experience and energy to what will be a much less experienced forward contingent.
On The Blue Line: The Hitmen's defense corps has also taken a hit with a few of their top rearguards having moved on. However, they still return a solid group of defensemen with up to six defensemen coming back from last season's second-ranked defense. 20-year-old Zak Stebner and 19-year-old Matt MacKenzie will lead the Hitmen defense corps. Both have demonstrated strong two-way abilities. MacKenzie notched 40 points last year, and should be able to top that as he moves up the depth chart this season, while Stebner is also effective at producing offense from the point. Also returning are 20-year-old Kyle Aschim (though, currently injured), and second-year rearguards Jaynen Rissling, Peter Kosterman and Ben Wilson, who will all be asked to take on a bigger workload this season.
Goaltending: The loss of WHL Goaltender of the Year Martin Jones to the professional ranks leaves a vacancy in the Club's starting netminder slot. 19-year-old Michael Snider spent the last two seasons backing up Jones, while also posting solid numbers in limited playing time. Snider had the benefit of watching Jones, one of the WHL's elite netminders, every day, much like Jones did with Justin Pogge. He'll be pushed by 19-year-old Slovakian Juraj Holly, whom the Hitmen acquired in the 2010 CHL Import draft.
Player to Watch: Cody Sylvester
Calgary's eighth-round pick in the 2007 WHL Bantam Draft, Sylvester spent most of his first two seasons in the WHL as a depth role-player for a very deep Calgary team. Then, during the 2010 WHL playoffs, Sylvester made a huge statement when he exploded for 11 goals to help the Hitmen win the WHL Championship. A fleet-footed two-way player who always works hard and plays with energy, Sylvester showed his offensive upside during the 2010 playoffs. If he can continue to build on his outstanding playoff performance, he could enjoy a breakout season for the Hitmen.
Edmonton Oil Kings
General Manager: Bob Green
Head Coach: Derek Laxdal
2010 pre-season: 5gp, 2-3-0-0
2009-10 Record: 16-43-4-9, 45 pts (6th in Central Div., 12th in Conf.) GF: 169 GA: 285
2009-10 Power Play / Penalty Killing ranking: PP 22nd (11.7%) PK 21st (74.3%)
2010 Playoffs: Did not qualify
2009-10 Top Scorers:
Michael St. Croix 66gp-18g-28a-46pts
Garry Nunn 46gp-17g-21a-38pts
T.J. Foster 68gp-10g-27a-37pts
Up Front: The Oil Kings' collection of young, talented forwards return, looking to improve what was the WHL's 22nd-ranked offense last season. Sophomore Michael St. Croix led the Oil Kings in scoring last year as a 16-year-old. He'll be a focal point in any offensive success the team has this year. Fellow 17-year-old Klarc Wilson could also step into a bigger offensive role, along with 18-year-old T.J. Foster. 20-year-olds Mike Piluso and Jordan Hickmott will play big roles up front, in terms of providing leadership and offense. Hickmott has proven he can generate goals, scoring 21 times last season in Prince Albert. Latvian forward Kristians Pelss, an Edmonton Oilers prospect, looks to have some good offensive skill. Pelss could be an impact player once he acclimatizes to the WHL level of play.
On The Blue Line: The Oil Kings return just four regular rearguards from last year's squad. 18-year-old Mark Pysyk is back to lead the Oil Kings' defense corps. The smooth-skating, heady defenseman, selected 23rd overall by the Buffalo Sabres in June's NHL draft, is expected to be a dominant force on the Oil Kings' blue line this season. 20-year-old Adrian Van de Mosselaer has 152 games of WHL seasoning with the Oil Kings, and provides a veteran presence in the defensive zone. 17-year-old Keegan Lowe is also back, looking to play a much larger role after a good showing as a rookie last season. Blue-chip prospect Griffin Reinhart should step into the line-up as a 16-year-old. The Oil Kings' first-round pick, 3rd overall, in the 2009 WHL Bantam Draft, Reinhart has all the tools and the size to become an elite defenseman in the WHL one day.
Goaltending: The graduation of veteran Torrie Jung opens the door for 18-year-old Cam Lanigan to assume the starting job. Lanigan has shown he is very capable of providing steady and consistent goaltending through his first two seasons in Edmonton. The Calgary, AB, product earned an invite to the rookie camp of his hometown Calgary Flames, and made an impression. 17-year-old Laurent Brossoit has appeared in three games over the last two seasons in Edmonton, and will take over the back-up role this year.
Player to Watch: Michael St. Croix
The Oil Kings' first-round pick, 4th overall, in the 2008 WHL Bantam Draft, St. Croix enjoyed an excellent season for the team as a 16-year-old last year, pacing the team in scoring with 46 points. Though he started slowly – just two points in his first 16 games – the Winnipeg, MB, product found his game and managed 17 goals and 44 points over his final 50 games. An incredibly skilled player with mesmerizing puckhandling skills, St. Croix plays a finesse game while also bringing intensity and energy. He's the type of player that makes his line mates better. Entering his NHL draft-eligible season, expect St. Croix to cement his reputation as one of the top prospects for the 2011 NHL entry draft.
Kootenay Ice
General Manager: Jeff Chynoweth
Head Coach: Kris Knoblauch
2010 pre-season: 5gp, 1-4-0-0
2009-10 Record: 43-24-3-2, 91 pts (2nd in Central Div., 4th in Conf.) GF: 252 GA: 215
2009-10 Power Play / Penalty Killing ranking: PP 17th (17.6%) PK 5th (82.7%)
2010 Playoffs: Lost in six games to Medicine Hat in first round.
2009-10 Top Scorers:
Dustin Sylvester 68gp-35g-58a-93pts
Steele Boomer 71gp-26g-41a-67pts
Kevin King 69gp-28g-35a-63pts
Up Front: The Ice may have lost offensive star Dustin Sylvester to graduation, but they still return several of their top scoring forwards from last year. Coming back are Steele Boomer, Max Reinhart, Kevin King, Matt Fraser and Jesse Ismond, who all topped the 20-goal plateau last season. Reinhart, who was drafted by the Calgary Flames in June, tallied 21 goals last season, and has the offensive tools to become a go-to guy for the Ice this year. 18-year-olds Drew Czerwonka and Brock Montgomery and 19-year-old Joe Antilla also return, bringing the Ice energy, size and the ability to generate secondary scoring. 17-year-old Brendan Hurley, the Ice's first-round pick in 2008, will look to contribute more after posting modest numbers as a rookie last year.
On The Blue Line: The Ice should be strong defensively, with six rearguards returning from last year's squad that managed the seventh-best defensive record in the WHL. Brayden McNabb, 19, enjoyed an outstanding campaign last year, posting 17 goals and 57 points to rank sixth among all WHL defensemen. He will be a major force for the Ice this season. Also back are 19-year-olds Hayden Rintoul and James Martin, who both play a strong two-way game. 18-year-old Joey Leach put up three goals and 26 points last season while playing a rough and physical style. Drafted by the Calgary Flames in June, Leach will be counted on to take care of his own end while helping out on the power play as well.
Goaltending: The Ice have plenty of options in the crease this season, with both Todd Mathews, 20, and Nathan Lieuwen, 19, eligible to return. Mathews posted 33 wins and a .907 save percentage in 55 appearances last year while Lieuwen got into 26 contests and recorded 10 victories. Mathews has proven to be a quality starting netminder and Lieuwen has plenty of potential to become a consistent No.1 if given the opportunity. 17-year-old Brett Teskey and 16-year-old Mackenzie Skapski are also looking to fill a spot in the line-up.
Player to Watch: Brayden McNabb
Now in his fourth season with the Ice, McNabb's game has developed by leaps and bounds in four year to the point where he was among the top-scoring defensemen and made the Eastern Conference First All-Star team last season. The Buffalo Sabres prospect boasts a huge 6'4", 200-lb frame which he uses effectively, and has good mobility and puck-moving skills. Projected as a defensive defenseman early in his WHL career, McNabb has developed great offensive instincts and harnessed his booming shot to become a major threat on the attack. Expect McNabb to be a tower of strength at both ends of the ice in Cranbrook this season.
Lethbridge Hurricanes
General Manager / Head Coach: Rich Preston
2010 pre-season: 6gp, 4-1-0-1
2009-10 Record: 20-44-5-3, 48 pts (5th in Central Div., 11th in Conf.) GF: 178 GA: 275
2009-10 Power Play / Penalty Killing ranking: PP 20th (15.4%) PK 18th (76.6%)
2010 Playoffs: Did not qualify
2009-10 Top Scorers:
Carter Bancks 70gp-19g-36a-55pts
Cam Braes 69gp-25g-28a-53pts
Mitch Maxwell 70gp-27g-17a-44pts
Up Front: The Hurricanes return up to 11 regulars from last season's group of forwards, including 20-year-old Mitch Maxwell and 19-year-old Cam Braes who are the only returning forwards who topped the 20-goal plateau last year. Maxwell scored a team-high 27 times as a 19-year-old rookie last year. Expect him to be a key cog in the 'Canes' attack again this season. 18-year-old Graham Hood put up eight goals and 17 points in 38 games for the 'Canes' last year after coming over from Regina midway through the season. He'll be expected to take on a larger role up front and continue playing his physical, hard-checking style. 19-year-olds Brody Sutter, Austin Fyten and Jacob Berglund should be able to step up their contributions this season, as will sophomores Mark Reners and Phil Tot. 17-year-old Russian Alex Kuvaev showed good offensive abilities during the pre-season. The 'Canes will hope he can make an impact on the score sheet this season as a rookie.
On The Blue Line: The 'Canes welcome back seven regulars from last season's defense corps who will all be looking to help the team shave down its goals-against from the 275 they allowed last season. Veterans Brennan Yadlowski and Mike Reddington will anchor the group. The two combined for 60 points from the back end last season, and should be able to chip in some offense again this season while providing stability and leadership. Talented two-way rearguard Daniel Johnston will look to play a bigger role this season and should help out on the power play. Cason Machacek provides toughness and an intimidating presence in the defensive zone, while Landon Oslanski looks capable of providing some offense from the blue line.
Goaltending: Fresh off signing an entry-level contract with the Washington Capitals after impressing as a free-agent invitee, Brandon Anderson is back for his sophomore season and ready to assume the full-time starting job this season. The Langley, B.C., native got into 37 games last season for the Hurricanes as a rookie, performing well. 19-year-old Dylan Tait is set to take over the back-up role and push Anderson for playing time.
Player to Watch: Cam Braes
The Hurricanes' third-round pick in the 2006 WHL Bantam Draft, Braes has become an integral part of the Lethbridge's roster over the last three seasons. An energetic, feisty player who does a lot of little things that make teams better, Braes took a big step forward last season in terms of offensive production, finishing the campaign with a career-high 25 goals and 53 points. As one of the 'Canes' older veterans, Braes will provide valuable leadership, both on and off the ice, and be counted on to contribute on the score sheet as the team looks to climb the ladder in the Central Division this season.
Medicine Hat Tigers
General Manager: Brad McEwen
Head Coach: Shaun Clouston
2010 pre-season: 6gp, 4-1-0-1
2009-10 Record: 41-23-3-5, 90 pts (3rd in Central Div., 5th in Conf.) GF: 276 GA: 232
2009-10 Power Play / Penalty Killing ranking: PP 10th (19.8%) PK 10th (79.4%)
2010 Playoffs: Lost in six games to Calgary in second round
2009-10 Top Scorers:
Linden Vey 72gp-24g-51a-75pts
Wacey Hamilton 67gp-24g-47a-71pts
Bretton Cameron 68gp-40g-27a-67pts
Up Front: The Tigers owned the WHL's second-best offense last season, scoring 276 goals. With three of their top four scorers returning, plus the addition of a couple impact forwards, the Tigers should be able to field a strong attack again this season. Back are Linden Vey, Wacey Hamilton and Emerson Etem, who combined for 85 goals and 211 points. All three are candidates to rank among the WHL's top scorers this season. Edmonton Oilers prospect Tyler Pitlick joined the Tigers in the offseason. The former Minnesota State forward is a strong two-way player who plays physical and can drive hard to the net. The Tigers also acquired forward Ryan Harrison from the Prince Albert Raiders in the offseason. Harrison is a physical presence who also put up 14 goals and 54 points last season. Also returning are veterans Kale Kessy and Joey Frazer, who are both capable of chipping in secondary scoring.
On The Blue Line: The Tigers could return up to five rearguards from last season's team. Jace Coyle put up an impressive 10 goals and 36 assists from the point last season. Look for the 20-year-old to be a key figure on the Tigers' blue line this season, and help their power play. Matt Konan, 19, is also returning. Konan put up 20 points last season, including five goals, and plays a sound defensive game with a physical edge. 17-year-old Dylan Busenius and 18-year-old Scott McKay are back and will look for more icetime in their second seasons in the WHL. Swedish rearguard Sebastian Owuya, an Atlanta Thrashers prospect, and 17-year-old Finn Patrik Parkkonen should be able to step in and contribute this season. Owuya already has experience playing in the Swedish Elite League.
Goaltending: With 18-year-old Tyler Bunz back for his third campaign, the Tigers know they have one of the WHL's best netminders as their last line of defense. Bunz appeared in 57 games last season – his first as a starter – and posted 31 wins. His terrific performance in the playoffs cemented his status as a top prospect. Drafted by the Edmonton Oilers in June, Bunz gives his team a chance to win every night. 19-year-old Deven Dubyk , who backed up Bunz last season, and 16-year-old Dawson Macauley are in the mix for the back-up role this season.
Player to Watch: Emerson Etem
A sixth-round pick in the 2007 WHL Bantam Draft, Etem took the WHL by storm as a 17-year-old rookie last season, leading all rookies with 37 goals while posting 65 points in 72 games. The Long Beach, CA, product showed enough potential for the Anaheim Ducks to draft him 29th overall in the 2010 NHL draft. A good skater with a natural nose for the net, Etem's ability to score puts him among the WHL's elite. With his NHL-caliber shot, Etem hits his targets with deadly precision. Yet, he's also a hard worker who can be relied upon in defensive situations. With a strong contingent of offensive talent surrounding him in Medicine Hat, expect Etem to find the net with regularity again this season.
Red Deer Rebels
V.P. of Hockey Operations / Head Coach: Jesse Wallin
2010 pre-season: 7gp, 5-2-0-0
2009-10 Record: 39-28-0-5, 83 pts (4th in Central Div., 6th in Conf.) GF: 202 GA: 222
2009-10 Power Play / Penalty Killing ranking: PP 16th (17.7%) PK 9th (80.6%)
2010 Playoffs: Lost in four games to Saskatoon in first round
2009-10 Top Scorers:
Willie Coetzee 72gp-29g-52a-81pts
Ryan Nugent-Hopkins 67gp-24g-41a-65pts
Andrej Kudrna 69gp-30g-24a-54pts
Up Front: The Rebels will see up to 11 of their forwards from last year return this season, including three of their top five scorers. Leading the way is 17-year-old phenom Ryan Nugent-Hopkins. The 6'0, 164-lb center is poised for a big year in Red Deer, and could find himself among the WHL's top scorers. Also returning are veterans Andrej Kudrna and Brett Ferguson, who will look to be regular offensive contributors. Kudrna scored a team-best 30 goals last season, and should be able to duplicate or better the feat this year. 19-year-old Byron Froese was acquired from Everett in the Landon Ferraro trade. The Chicago Blackhawks prospect has put up 48 goals and 114 points over the last two season, establishing himself as a proven offensive producer. Other returning vets like Adam Kambeitz, Josh Cowen and Turner Elson should be able to step up and contribute more this season.
On The Blue Line: The Rebels could return up to five rearguards who were on last season's squad that managed the eighth-best defensive record in the WHL. 20-year-old Colin Archer, the Rebels' captain, is back for his final WHL season. He provides plenty of leadership and plays a solid, physical game in the defensive zone. 18-year-old Alex Petrovic is also back, bringing a mix of offense, puck-moving and punishing physical play. Experienced veterans Aaron Borejko and Justin Weller round out a very strong top four for the Rebels. 16-year-old rookie Matt Dumba is already a physical specimen, and could be a very good two-way defenseman for the Rebels once he gets used to the WHL.
Goaltending: The Rebels could return their goaltending tandem from last season, with 20-year-olds Darcy Kuemper and Kraymer Barnstable both looking for a roster spot. Kuemper, a Minnesota Wild prospect, was one of the better goaltender last season, posting a .908 save percentage and a 2.72 GAA. Kuemper could very well play in Minnesota's system this year. Barnstable enjoyed a strong season last year, and was terrific in the three post-season games he played. It's not likely the Rebels will keep two overage goaltenders, so 16-year-old Bolton Pouliot is a good pick to take on the back-up role.
Player to Watch: Ryan Nugent-Hopkins
The first overall pick of the 2008 WHL Bantam Draft, Nugent-Hopkins is a rare talent who is sure to have a long and productive career in the NHL. The Burnaby, B.C., native already displayed his incredible offensive ability by notching 24 goals and 65 points as a 16-year-old last year, earning the WHL Rookie of the Year award. Having followed up with a dominating performance for Canada's Under-18 team at the Memorial for Ivan Hlinka tournament this summer, Nugent-Hopkins is poised for a monster season for an ever-improving Rebels team. A potential No. 1 overall NHL draft pick next summer, Red Deer fans will enjoy seeing just what the gifted Nugent-Hopkins can accomplish this season.


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Indeterminate Sentence Review Board
The Indeterminate Sentence Review Board (ISRB or Board) was created in 1986. Before that, the Board had been the Board of Prison Terms and Paroles. The Board is responsible for two types of offenders
- Felony offenders who committed crimes before July 1, 1984 and went to prison
- A select group of sex offenders who have committed offenses after August 31, 2001
The ISRB is located in Olympia, Washington, and merged with the Department of Corrections on July 1, 2011. The Chair and three Board Members are appointed by the Governor to serve five year terms. Staff support the Board by providing case analysis, maintaining offender records, and providing administrative assistance to the Chair and the Board Members.
Stay Informed
If you would like to receive the Board meeting minutes, please sign up for our ISRB Board Meeting Minutes LISTSERV, you will then begin receiving our Board meeting minutes on a monthly basis when they are published. Additionally, you can sign up to receive ISRB Press Releases.
Board Meetings
- The June 13th meeting agenda is now available
- An additional June 27th meeting agenda is now available
- The complete board meeting schedule for 2016 is available online
Decisions and Minutes
- None at this time.


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A Step-by-Step Guide: How to Set the Perfect Table
You have chosen and bought, or had as a gift, the dinnerware service of your dreams, so you are now ready for your first dinner party.
We will now learn how to set a table for eight people, as that is the amount of place settings in most dinnerware sets…also not too many to cook for at your very first attempt at entertaining guests.
First, make sure your table will seat eight comfortably.
Your table may have an extra leaf or section that can be pulled out or added and this is ideal. If you need to put two tables together, make sure that they are exactly the same height, you do not want accidents with spills due to uneven levels!
Try to ensure that the chairs are spaced evenly so that no one will have table legs to contend with, especially if you have used two tables.
It is advisable to put a heatproof cloth underneath your chosen tablecloth if you are using one.
If you are not using a tablecloth, and have a beautiful polished finish to your table put a strip down the centre, or place mats to set hot dishes on.
Place the place mat or charger, if you have them, in each place on the table and place the dinner plate on it.
Place the knives to the right of the plate with the blade facings in towards the plate.
The largest dinner knife will be closest to the plate and always to the right.
The starter or entrée knife is placed next to it, unless soup is also being served after the entrée, in which case it will be on the outside of the soup spoon.
Tip for remembering which side knives and forks should be placed: fork, four letters as in left: knife, five letters as in right.
The forks are placed in the same way to the left of the place setting.
The soupspoon, if having a soup course, is placed next to the outside knife on the right.
If a course is being served before the soup, the spoon will be the second implement in on the right.
Tip: always start from the outer item of cutlery and works inwards.
Dessert cutlery is placed above the plate, the handle of the spoon facing to the right, the handle to the dessert fork facing left.
If other courses are being served, for instance a fish course after the soup, the fish knife and fork will be placed next to the main dinner knife and fork, so second in from the plate.
Decide how you want to present your napkins.
They can be sculpted into shapes and set on the plate, or if you have matching table rings in your dinnerware set, roll them and place them in the rings then place on the plate.
However, if the starter is already on the plate position it next to the forks.
Place the bread plate to the left of the forks with the butter knife laid across it.
The glasses are placed above the knives, the water glass closest with the rest of the selection, flutes for champagne, white wine glass, red wine glass and finally the dessert wine or liqueur glass at the far right.
Tip. Any table decoration used, if there is room, should be low level so that guests can all see each other easily without having to peer around flowers or greenery.
Finally, try to seat your guests male and female consecutively if your numbers are even, with partners opposite rather than next to each other.
Place yourself in the seat nearest to the kitchen, for easy access between courses.
Follow these quite simple steps on how to set a table and then forget about it, simply sit and enjoy your first dinner party with friends.


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After months of backlash and criticism, it appears that the WWE is seriously considering an overhaul to their WrestleMania 30 lineup. According to a February 28 report by WrestlingInc.com, the WWE is seriously looking at adding a third person to the world title match between Randy Orton and Batista. Additionally, the WWE is considering several more undercard matches that will consist of mid-card talent to fill out the PPV.
In light of this report, it would seem that the WWE Universe has apparently won the tug of war with the WWE. Since the beginning of 2014, the WWE fans have demanded Daniel Bryan be in the world title match at WM 30 on April 6. Their protests could be heard every week on RAW and SmackDown as they booed other wrestlers and chanted for Daniel Bryan.
Batista has become the whipping boy for the fans as they basically turned a returning hero into possibly the most hated man on the roster. This anger toward Batista began at the Royal Rumble last month when the WWE decided to have Batista win the Rumble instead of Daniel Bryan. Each week since the Rumble, the fans continued to boo Batista until the WWE finally turned Batista heel on the February 28 episode of SmackDown.
With both Batista and Orton as heels, the WWE has concerns over how the fans would respond to the match. The idea of a third entrant will only serve as a way for the WWE to appease the fans and put their hero Daniel Bryan into the world title match.
As of this article, Daniel Bryan is currently looking at a potential match against Triple H at WM 30. A possible scenario could see Bryan defeat HHH at WM 30 and earn the chance to be in the world title match with Orton and Batista.
Other potential undercard matches are:
- Big E vs. Dean Ambrose to unify the secondary titles
- The Shield (Reigns and Rollins) vs. The Wyatts (Harper and Rowan)
- Sheamus vs. Christian
- Goldust vs. Cody Rhodes
- A match consisting of NXT stars
The only matches that are locked in for WM 30 right now are:
- Cena vs. Bray Wyatt
- The Undertaker vs. Brock Lesnar
- Orton vs. Batista for the WWE World Heavyweight title
WrestleMania 30 takes place on April 6 live from the Mercedes-Benz Superdome in New Orleans, Louisiana. Fans can order the event on PPV or the WWE Network.


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Steiner, Markus J. PhD*; Hylton-Kong, Tina MD†; Figueroa, J Peter MD†; Hobbs, Marcia M. PhD‡; Behets, Frieda PhD‡; Smikle, Monica PhD§; Tweedy, Katie MPH*; Powell, Sharon†; McNeil, Linda MPH*; Brathwaite, Alfred MD†
From *Family Health International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina; the † Comprehensive Health Centre/Ministry of Health, Jamaica; the ‡ University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina; and the § University of the West Indies, Kingston, Jamaica
The authors thank all the staff that helped implement this trial, especially Joy Braham, Allister Anglin, Keisha Francis, Milverton Moore, Syon Garrick, Rob Krysiak, Jane Parker, Jennifer Caraway, and Neha Mehta. The authors also thank Ward Cates, Paul Feldblum, Eli Carter, Larry Severy, Carol Joanis, Theresa Hatzell, Doug Taylor, Laneta Dorflinger, Jeff Spieler, Mihira Karra, Mark Rilling, and David Grimes for their thoughtful review of the manuscript.
Support for this work was provided with funds from the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) cooperative agreement #AID/CCP-3079-A-00-5022-00 and from the NC STD CRC U19AI031496. The views expressed in this document, however, do not necessarily reflect those of the funding agency.
Correspondence: Markus J. Steiner, PhD, Family Health International, P.O. Box 13950, Research Triangle Park, NC 27707. E-mail: email@example.com.
Received for publication February 14, 2005, and accepted June 14, 2005.
Objective: The objective of this study was to assess whether providing a choice of condoms would increase condom acceptability, increase self-reported use, and decrease incident sexually transmitted infection.
Study: We randomized 414 men presenting with urethral discharge in Jamaica to receive either the "standard" clinic condom or a choice of 4 different types of condoms. Men were treated presumptively at enrollment and followed up at 1, 2, 4, and 6 months.
Results: Participants in the choice group had a strong preference (P <0.01) for the most popular condom available in Jamaica. This preference did not translate into higher condom use (P = 0.16). The 6-month cumulative probability of first incidence of gonorrhea, chlamydia, or trichomoniasis was slightly higher in the choice group (21%; 95% confidence interval [CI], 15–28%) versus the control group (17%; 95% CI, 11–23%); the difference in the survival curves was not significant (P = 0.35).
Conclusion: A choice of condoms may increase perceived acceptability but not lead to increased condom use and subsequently lower sexually transmitted infection rates.
WE ARE ENTERING THE THIRD decade of the HIV pandemic, and access to condoms is still dismal in many parts of the world where they are needed most.1,2 Although access to condoms is a necessary first step, even in situations in which they are readily available, condoms are often not used. Reasons for condom nonuse are well documented and include reduced spontaneity and sexual sensation, introduction of distrust into relationships, cost, and basic lack of confidence that the method works.3,4 Many interventions have been designed to increase condom use but surprisingly few have been evaluated rigorously5 in randomized, controlled trials (RCTs) using biologic outcomes.6 A recent group-randomized trial evaluating a 1-day cognitive behavioral intervention demonstrates the importance of using objective biologic outcomes in addition to relying on self-reported behaviors.7 In that trial, men assigned to the intervention group reported slightly fewer acts of unprotected anal intercourse but experienced significantly more incident cases of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) compared with the control group. Unfortunately, interventions that have been shown effective in rigorous trials often involve labor-intensive counseling8–10 and may be difficult to scale up in developing countries where both resources and qualified staff are limited.11
We sought to design an intervention that, if shown to be effective, could readily be scaled up in resource-poor settings. Studies have documented preferences for different condom attributes,12 and some argue that providing a choice of condoms will increase use.13 The choice of condoms in the private sector is vast with over 100 different brands available in the United States alone.3 Whether this choice of condoms in the private sector translates into increased condom use overall or if consumers simply substitute condoms of lower perceived acceptability with condoms of higher perceived acceptability is not known. A San Francisco observational study in which women were offered a choice of different barrier methods found no link among: 1) hypothetical acceptability, 2) product choice, or 3) satisfaction while using the product with subsequent use. The authors urged a reframing of how product acceptability is measured in prevention research.15 A more recent observational analysis of couples randomized to one of 5 spermicidal agents found a similar lack of association between acceptability measures collected during the study and subsequent clinically relevant outcomes (time to pregnancy, duration of use, and consistency of use).16 The authors argue because their analysis was observational, they "may not have been able to adjust for all of the relevant confounders of any possible association between acceptability and pregnancy." Only in an RCT can we be assured that associations, or lack thereof, are not influenced by unmeasured confounders.
In the public sector, providing a choice of condoms requires spending additional resources (Eli Carter, Director, Product Quality and Compliance, Family Health International, personal communication, May 24, 2005). In the absence of good evidence that choice translates into clinically relevant outcomes, we cannot justify this investment, especially with basic access to condoms lacking in many settings. Our objective for this RCT was to determine if providing men attending an STI clinic with a choice of male condoms would increase acceptability and self-reported use and, most importantly, decrease incident STI.
We conducted our trial at Jamaica's largest STI clinic in Kingston. Our intervention consisted of making available 3 different latex condoms in addition to the current public sector Unidus condom widely available in Jamaica. The Unidus condom is straight-walled, 52-mm layflat width, reservoir-tipped, lubricated with silicone and cornstarch, and packaged in a square silver foil pouch. The first intervention condom was the Rough Rider, which is the most popular private sector condom in Jamaica.17,18 It is straight-walled, 52-mm layflat width, reservoir-tipped, studded and ribbed, lubricated with silicone and cornstarch, and packaged in a rectangular blue plastic pouch. The second intervention condom was the Inspiral, which has been described by the popular press as "America's #1 rated condom" as a result of the unique loose-fitting shape designed to enhance sexual pleasure.19 It is screw-shaped, 54-mm layflat width (70 mm at the bulbous end), lubricated with cornstarch, and packaged in a purple, yellow, and black square foil pouch. The final intervention condom was a public sector condom distributed worldwide by USAID. This condom is contour-shaped, 52-mm layflat width, reservoir-tipped, lubricated with cornstarch, and packaged in a square white foil pouch.
To be eligible for inclusion in this study, the male participant had to be: 1) seeking treatment for urethral discharge, 2) willing and able to give written informed consent, 3) at least 16 years old (legal age of consent in Jamaica), 4) currently sexually active, 5) willing to use condoms, 6) willing to adhere to the follow-up schedule and all study procedures, 7) willing to refrain from self-medication with antibiotics during study participation, and 8) willing to ingest single-dose treatment for gonorrhea, trichomoniasis, or chlamydia infection observed by study staff. Exclusion criteria were a history of adverse reactions to the study drugs or products containing latex or previous enrollment in the study.
During the screening visit, eligible participants provided written informed consent, answered an interviewer-administered questionnaire, and provided a urine specimen for STI screening (gonorrhea, trichomoniasis, and chlamydia). They were examined and diagnosed (using a syndromic approach) and then were observed taking treatment for gonorrhea and chlamydia infection (500 mg ciprofloxacin and 1 g azithromycin, respectively) with food and drink. Study staff demonstrated proper condom use to participants, provided them with Unidus condoms free of charge, and asked them to use condoms with every act of intercourse until the enrollment visit scheduled 1 week later. The enrollment visit was scheduled 1 week later to allow us to enroll participants who had a proven ability to return for a follow-up visit and to allow participants to take the presumptive treatment on 2 days and thus reduce side effects.
During the enrollment visit, all participants were observed taking single-dose treatment for trichomoniasis (2 g metronidazole) with food and drink and then randomized to either the choice or control group using sequentially numbered, sealed, opaque envelopes containing the group assignment. Family Health International (FHI) prepared the randomization envelopes using a random permuted block scheme, randomly selecting block size among 3 different sizes. Study staff then administered a questionnaire, counseled participants about condom use and STI prevention, and provided condoms (minimum of 20) to each participant at no charge. An upper limit was determined by the participant's self-reported coital frequency. The choice participants were provided an equal number of each of the 4 condom types. Follow-up visits were scheduled at 1, 2, 4, and 6 months when participants were administered a questionnaire, received STI risk reduction counseling, were treated syndromically for STIs, and provided a urine specimen for gonorrhea, chlamydia, and trichomoniasis screening. At these follow-up visits, participants could purchase condoms at the standard clinic cost of JM $20 for 4 condoms (US $0.33). The choice group was free to choose the quantity and type of condom. Participants received JM $100 for travel reimbursement and either JM $100 or $200 (depending on type of visit) that could be used to purchase condoms. Finally, study staff encouraged participants to return to the study site between the scheduled visits to undergo STI screening if they thought they may be infected or to purchase additional condoms. Participants did not receive compensation for these interim visits.
The primary study outcome was time to first reinfection (gonorrhea, trichomoniasis, or chlamydia infection) in the choice group compared with time to first reinfection in the control group. For trichomoniasis detection, we used a previously validated in-house polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay20 coupled with the Roche PCR DIG ELISA (Roche Diagnostic System) throughout the study. For gonorrhea/chlamydia detection, we initially used the Abbott LCx Probe System (Abbott Park, IL) until this product was discontinued, and we switched to the Roche Amplicor CT/NG PCR assay in June 2003 (32% specimen tested with ligase chain reaction; 68% with PCR). We determined cumulative infection probabilities using the Kaplan-Meier method and Greenwood's formula for standard errors.
Given our planned study size of 1000 participants, we would have approximately 80% power to reject the one-sided null hypothesis that the STI rate ratio is greater than or equal to one, assuming that the true 6-month reinfection probability is 20% in the control group, the true rate ratio between groups is 0.67, a 20% loss to follow-up rate, and a 0.05 one-sided type I error rate. As a result of slow recruitment and financial constraints, we stopped screening after 19 months with 414 enrolled participants.
Secondary outcomes included acceptability measures and self-reported condom use. To determine if an overall preference for certain condom types was evident, an analysis was performed for the men in the choice group based on responses to repeated questions at each follow-up visit regarding their ratings of each condom type (5-point scale: 1 = liked it very much, 2 = liked it, 3 = neither liked nor disliked it, 4 = disliked it, 5 = disliked it very much) of 7 acceptability parameters (feel during intercourse, ease of putting on, lubrication, length, width, smell, strength). A 2-sided, 0.05-level Mantel-Haenszel mean score test, stratified by participant, was used to determine if a significant overall difference emerged in scores across condom types. If the overall test was found to be significant, then all pairwise comparisons between the individual condom types were performed at the 2-sided 0.05 significance level (i.e., using the least significant difference method of multiple comparisons). Self-reported condom use was assessed for each coital act during the 7-day interval before a participant visit as well as comparing condom use on a 5-point scale (never, less than half the time, half the time, more than half the time, always) in the 6 months before the study with condom use reported during the 6-month study. A Wilcoxon rank sum test on the difference scores (i.e., condom use during the entire study minus condom use during 6 months before the study) was used to determine if there was a significant overall difference in condom use across treatment groups. We planned these analyses before completion of data collection. As a result of the study design, neither participants nor site staff could be masked to group assignment. However, we masked all FHI staff involved in the analysis and interpretation of the data.
The ethical review boards at FHI, the University of North Carolina, and the local Ministry of Health approved the protocol. All participants provided written informed consent. We adhered to the CONSORT guidelines in our reporting of results.21
We randomized 414 participants between July 2002 and January 2004 and completed follow up in September 2004. Of these 414 participants, 37 (9%) were lost to follow up and 128 (31%) discontinued early (Fig. 1) with no difference in continuation between the 2 groups (P = 0.6). Baseline characteristics were similar for the participants in the choice and control groups (Table 1). Both groups had a median age of 26 and most had used condoms in the past (choice = 95% and control = 98%), although few reported using condoms always in the past 6 months (4% and 7%, respectively). Most thought that a choice of condoms would lead them to use more condoms (81% and 88%, respectively).
Participants assigned to the choice group expressed a strong preference for the Rough Rider condoms (Fig. 2). During each follow-up visit, approximately 80% of participants reported using the Rough Rider since their last visit, whereas use of the other 3 types of condoms dropped off sharply from interval to interval with only 24% of participants in the choice group reporting using the USAID condom during the last study interval (Unidus 31% and Inspiral 33%). Participants in the choice group ranked the Rough Rider significantly higher (P = <0.01) on a 5-point scale for all 7 acceptability attributes (feel during intercourse, ease of putting on, lubrication, length, width, smell, strength). For example, the Rough Rider's mean score for "feel during intercourse" after the first month of use was 1.7 (vs. Inspiral = 2.6; Unidus = 2.4, and USAID condom = 2.4). Participants in the choice group received over twice as many Rough Rider condoms (6831 condoms) than the other 3 types (Unidus = 2467; Inspiral = 2783; USAID = 2164). Overall, the choice group received slightly more condoms than the control group (14,245 vs. 13,035).
However, the strong preference for the Rough Rider did not translate into higher condom use in the choice group compared with the control group. The Wilcoxon rank sum test on the difference scores comparing change from screening with final visit between groups was not significant (P = 0.16); over half of participants reported always using condoms during the study (choice = 56%; control = 54%). Only 2% in both groups reported never using condoms during the trial.
At the screening visit, participants reported using condoms less than half the time in the previous 7 days (choice = 42%; control = 38%), and during the enrollment visit a week later, the proportion protected increased significantly in both groups (P <0.01; choice = 90%; control = 96%) and stayed similarly high throughout the study (Fig. 3). Mean number of acts of unprotected intercourse throughout the study, as measured in the 7-day interval before each follow-up visit, was the same (0.2 coital acts unprotected) in the 2 groups. We also conducted these analyses stratified by partner type and results were very similar (data not shown).
The 6-month cumulative probability of first incidence of gonorrhea, chlamydia, or trichomoniasis was slightly higher in the choice group (21%; 95% confidence interval [CI], 15–28%) than in the control group (17%; 95% CI, 11–23%) (relative risk [RR], 1.3; 95% CI, 0.8–2.1), and the difference in the unadjusted survival curves was not significant (P = 0.35) (Fig. 4). Similarly, no individual STI outcome alone was associated with group assignment (chlamydia P = 0.46; gonorrhea P = 0.64; and trichomoniasis P = 0.54), although our power for determining comparisons for the separate STIs was low.
Our study provides evidence that a choice of male condoms will not lead to increased condom use and subsequently lower STI rates. Participants provided a choice of condoms expressed a strong preference for the Rough Rider condom and reported using that type of condom more frequently than the other 3 types. Our study provides evidence that participants in the choice group simply substituted what they perceived to be less acceptable condoms with the more acceptable Rough Rider condoms with no net increase in condom use. Although providing a choice of condoms may increase the perceived pleasure of intercourse with condoms, our intervention did not impact the most relevant public health outcome—STI rates.
Our findings are consistent with 3 parallel studies conducted in Ghana, Kenya, and South Africa looking at the impact of condom choice on self-reported measures without biologic outcomes (Joanis et al., unpublished data). At all 3 sites, participants preferred the Rough Rider condom, but providing a choice of condoms had no impact on self-reported levels of use. Although in the related field of contraception, providing a choice of widely different methods increases overall contraceptive use,22,23 our studies suggest that within the narrow range of a single barrier method (male condoms), offering a choice has no impact. Offering a range of different barrier methods (e.g., male condoms, female condoms, diaphragms) may in some instances increase self-reported overall acts protected26 as well as decrease STI rates;26 but because these devices cost substantially more than male condoms, the cost-effectiveness of providing different types of barrier methods is still under study.27
Being enrolled in our study appeared to have more than doubled self-reported condom use (Fig. 1). We do not know how much this reported increase is the result of: 1) the increased access to condoms, 2) the condom counseling provided to all participants, and/or 3) the social desirability of overreporting condom use. Without knowing the exact exposure risk in this population, it is difficult to evaluate whether this relatively high reinfection rate with these highly infectious pathogens is possible given the high level of self-reported condoms use. Future modeling may shed light on the veracity of self-reported condom use in our study.
Strengths of our study include the randomized design using biologic outcome measures and a relatively low loss to follow up rate (9%). The major weakness of the study was almost one third (31%) discontinued early, mainly for personal reasons not related to the study. However, the combined loss to follow up and early discontinuation was not different between groups (log-rank of the difference in survival curves P = 0.65) and is unlikely to have introduced confounding that influenced our conclusions. A second weakness was that we fell well short of recruiting our planned study size of 1000 participants. Although the site treated close to the anticipated number of males with urethral discharge, a large proportion was not interested in learning more about the study after initial contact. Our planned study size would have provided 80% power for the a priori hypothesis that a choice of condoms would decrease STI incidence (one-sided α = 0.05). With only 414 participants recruited and a high early discontinuation rate, our study power was reduced to approximately 50% given our original assumptions. However, because the incidence of STIs was actually higher in the choice group than the control group (RR, 1.3; 95% CI, 0.8–2.1), we can confidently conclude that among our participants, a choice of condoms did not have the desired impact of lowering STI rates. Whether our results are generalizable outside this study population or might apply to a different choice of male condoms is not known. That the 3 studies in Ghana, Kenya, and South Africa using similar protocols produced similar results lends confidence to our findings.
For public sector programs in which resources are often limited, our study supports the current general practice of providing a low-cost male condom. Globally, ensuring that all current demand for condoms is met must be the highest public health priority. Moreover, we must scale up interventions that have been shown to increase condom use and rigorously evaluate new approaches. With HIV vaccines and microbicides not available in the foreseeable future, we must make better use of the male condom, which is one of the main currently available approaches shown to decrease HIV transmission.28
This article has been cited 6 time(s).
© Copyright 2006 American Sexually Transmitted Diseases Association
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