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Disney Cruise Line Reviews
Year Started: 1996
Ships in Fleet: 4
Category: Upscale
Summary: Everything Disney; great entertainment, Disney characters, movies and live theater. Interactive fun for all ages. Only four ships, two older, two newer.
Disney Cruise Line Cruise Ships
Regions:Caribbean Eastern, Caribbean Western
Good for: Teens. Children`s Programs. Families.
Regions:Bahamas, Caribbean Eastern, Caribbean Western, Mediterranean Western, Transatlantic
Good for: Teens. Children`s Programs. Families.
Good for: Children`s Programs. Teens. Families.
Regions:Alaska, Bahamas, Caribbean Western, Mexico
Good for: Families. Teens. Children`s Programs.
User Reviews
This was my first Disney cruise, but fourth overall. I have also cruised with NCL twice, and Royal Caribbean. This cruise was overpriced, when you compare it with similar styled cruise lines
The food quality was substandard at best. Most of our meals came out lukewarm, heavily sauced, and over salted. This was consistent throughout the cruise. It's almost as Disney felt that since they were creating the Disney "magical" experience with the characters, that the adults and children wouldn't notice the lack of variety in food, fresh fruit or appetizing meals. I know that children's palates aren't as developed as adults, but please, there is just some much mac n' cheese (made with what seemed like velveeta), pizza and chicken fingers that a child can eat over the duration of a 7 day cruise. The orange and apple juice was only available during meal hours, so if you didn't plan ahead and bottle some for your stateroom, your child was drinking milk or from the soda station
We had a family deluxe oceanview. Our stateroom attendant was polite and did a great job of keeping our room clean, tidy, and well stocked withfresh towels, etc.
The Disney meet and greets were fantastic for the children. You have alot of opportunities during the cruise to meet with the different characters. If your little ones are looking at getting some autographs and pictures, you will want to get the majority of them as early on in the cruise as possible. Disney runs their ship lean, which means closer to the end of the cruise, you have less opportunity to meet the characters as many of them double for the evening entertainment. Also, for those families that didn't get their quota of photos earlier on in the cruise, they are now scrambling to get as many photos as they can before the end of the cruise. Picture taking is scheduled, and random all at the same time. Since there always seems to be a character(s) walking around on the ship, you often end up taking unplanned pictures causing you to miss other onboard activities. Due to the lineups sometimes taking a 1/2hr or more for photo taking, kids often end up getting cranky. If you can take turns with lineup duties, and have your little ones join you just before their photo is to be taken, you will make your life alot easier.
All three swimming pool areas for the younger babies, children and adults were extremely small and insufficient for the number of people onboard.
The evening (Broadway type) entertainment was also fantastic, and is definitely a higher calibre to what I've seen on other ships. The shows were done "Disney" style, and they didn't disappoint. The pirate party was also fantastic, with the fireworks show at the end - Awesome!
We did our own excursions and we were quite happy with the price and activities we were able to do on our own. I've always found that the excursions offered by cruise lines were higher than what you can get if you plan it yourself, but make sure you do your research beforehand, so you're not wasting time at port. If planning ahead isn't for you, then go with a pre-packaged excursion since there's bound to be at least one which, will interest you and your family.
If you want to see as many Disney characters as possible - than this is the cruise for you. If you are looking for the best quality cruise experience for your dollar, I would recommend a similar styled cruise which offers some character events and children programs.
Reading this review you might think that this cruise wasn't that bad, but please take into account that this itinerary only goes to 3 ports of call. Leaving alot of time spent using the amenities and onboard activities. Overall, this cruise was disappointing due to the cost, poor amenities, and the lack of quality food.
Fellow Travelers... A six cabin /w outside verandahs purchase for Thanksgiving '99 resulted in an almost $l7,000 fiasco...a special occasion, with the family..3-=4" of water on the verandas(took three days to remove)..no scuttleholes..totally inedible food the first nite, resulted in the chef apologizing..advising his job depended on it..careless waiters and busboys who brought cold , incorrect orders..neglected to remove dishes..begging the hotel director aboard to help..resulted in a non effort.Britework (varnished wood)peeling...'THE DISNEY WONDER..WENT IN TO SERVICE AUG.'99..this was November'99.
A Disney Disaster for us, resulted in three poor,expensive days...FORGOT TO MENTION THE FACT WE WERE "DEAD IN THE WATER" DURING THE NIGHT FOR MANY HOURS.. All of the above resulted in fax's to the CEO and related personnel...months later..received a letter from PR dept.."they were sorry for our not enjoying the dinner..and would offer a 25% discount on a future trip.." Letters echoing our personal adventure to numerous papers in the country, resulted in "0"..they must be big advertisers...
CAVEAT EMPTOR...let the buyer beware
P.S. The travel manager did good..when Philadelphia travelers had a tough time..and they managed, with super human effort to get them on board.
When I read online about the Disney Wonder cruise I was really worried about how it would be. Most of the reviews were quite negative. My dealings with the business office by email and by phone were not pleasant. It took three emails before they would even answer the question I asked with other than their form letters that did not fit the situation. Since we could not fit my daughter's vacation into the calendar of the Disney Magic we decided to do a 3 and a 4 day on the Wonder to add up to the seven day cruise. I asked my travel agent and emailed a request to customer service at Disney to please be allowed to occupy the same cabin on both cruises. I talked to others on the cruise that had been granted this request, but we were made to pack up and change cabins after the 4 day cruise. The replies from Disney indicated that this was something they could not do. When I asked at the guest relations desk, they said that it could easily have been done, the person making the room assignmentsjust did not want to take a bit of extra trouble to do it. On the positive side, the cabin for the four day cruise was a very nice upgrade. The one for the three day was over the engines and under the disco so it vibrated a lot when starting or stopping and was noisy until late at night. I do not recommend number 2652, but number 2550 in the same category was very comfortable and much quieter.
Once we got on the ship the cruise was wonderful. I wrote a review of the Disney Magic several years ago. The Wonder is just as nice. The food has improved, but is still not a strong point of the cruise. The children's program and the private island, Castaway Cay, are the best features of the cruise. Our 2 ½ year old went happily to the nursery where the staff was friendly and competent. We were allowed to take him to the 3-5 year old area where it was quite dimly lit as several reviewers have said. Our eyes adjusted quickly and he did not mind; the staff members were friendly there also. We had to stay with him, but he played and participated in the program happily until time for us to leave.
One advantage of taking the back to back cruises was that we got two days at the island and two evenings at Palo. The second day on the island we left our toddler in the nursery and went to the adults only area of the beach. The BBQ was much better than the one served in the family area with rib eye steaks and a nicer area in which to eat. Dinner in Palo was a special treat both times although the lobster ravioli which was so delicious the first time, was too salty to eat the second time. Our server, Kim, gave us excellent service both evenings.
Embarkation and debarkation for both cruises was quick and easy. Packing for this cruise is no problem. One dressy outfit and a few casual outfits plus your bathing suit and you are good to go. I even had room in the suitcase for my snorkel gear and plane toys for Charlie.
We took the annual family vacation on a 7 Day Land & Sea package with Disney on the Wonder. This was our first Disney Cruise experience and we are already looking forward to 2011 when the Disney Dream is launched for sailing.
Our package was for 3 days in the parks and 4 days on the ship and if I had it to do over I would not combine them because neither is enough time to fully enjoy what is offered. Our cabin was an outside Superior Stateroom with balcony which is one below the Family cabins though I could never tell what the actual difference was since they both will sleep 4 to 5 depending on the size of the individuals (kids).
Port Canaveral was a breeze and is very true to the reviews on this site and others. Our girls were 8 and 3 at time of sailing and they had no problems with the process, of course they were to excited to worry about anything but getting on and getting started. They announce each guest separately as you come across the gangway onto the ship which is prettydarn cool. They had the standard fare for a first day of the cruise buffet and over all the food was pretty good and pleanty of choices for the kids.
The cabin was the largest we have seen for a non-suite cabin on any of the cruises we have been on. The two separate bathrooms are very nice (tub/shower and sink in one and toilet/sink in the other) it made getting ready much quicker and the bath tub had enough room for our 3 yr old to take a bath in. Queen size bed for the wife and myself while the sofa fliped into a single and the other pulled down from the ceiling which of course the kids loved. There was pleanty of storage under the bed and in the trunk that is like a book shelf. The tip to bring an over the door shoe organizer worked great as well for shoes/toiletries and other assundries. The balcony was great to have which made the room feel even bigger, they have a curtain that pretty much splits the room in two for some privacy when the kiddo's go to sleep.
As far as the shipboard entertainment goes, it's Disney and you really can't go wrong, there is something to do everyday and the characters are constantly found throughout the ship. The kids programs put anything out on the high seas to shame no matter what age your children may be. They give you and your children an armband that stays on the entire lenght of your stay and they also issue you a beeper to notify you if your child would like to be picked up or in case of an emergency and they do not let anyone else that does not have a wristband check the child out.
Nassau and Castaway Cay were the only two stops we made and since we had been to Nassau several times we decided to stay aboard the ship. Castaway Cay is great with to many things to do in one day and the BBQ that they have was pretty good as well and at no extra charge it is priced just right. There is an area for everyone of all ages here and we found the family beach to be just right. I will say other reviews I have read say that it doesn't really matter what time of the year you go the water never really gets Hawaii warm but one you have been in it for a few minutes it is fine.
Disembarkation was just as easy as getting on the ship, you just wait until your bag tag is called and off you go, no fuss no muss. Overall we were very happy with the total Disney experience and the Wonder.
My mother and I went on a three-day cruise aboard the Disney Wonder to Nassau and Castaway Cay for my 19th birthday, and the tenth anniversary of sailing with Disney Cruise Line, last August. We embarked the ship rather early (some four or so hours pre-departure) and had lunch in time at the Beach Blanket Buffet. The food was scrumptious, with the fruit nice and sweet, picked at the peak of its ripeness. (Blame the magic of Disney on their originating soils.)
The shows were more enjoyable, especially my favorite (besides Disney Dreams), Toy Story the Musical! Note that the shows don't use show bands, just not to detract theatergoers from the magic on stage.
The deck parties (Adventures Away and Pirates IN the Caribbean, with pyrotechnics on the ship) topped the bill, with Disney characters on hand to rule the roost. Speaking of which, a lot of them are virtually EVERYWHERE! One day, I saw Lilo and Stich while taking pictures in the spa and I saw Donald, Captain Hook, and Mr. Smee on our way to the fitness center (with LCD TV screens on their ellipticals, which was brilliant). Despite thefact that guests under 18 are not allowed in the area, I think the characters were exceptional! I met Mickey, Minnie, and Goofy (while exploring the ship before viewing The Golden Mickeys), among some others, while onboard.
Despite skinning my right knee on Nassau and being set back a tad bit due to inclement weather in Castaway Cay, I still had payloads of fun in the shore excursions. The tours of the zoo, city, and Fort Fincastle in the latter port of call were excellent!
My mother and I also dined a Palo's at the last night of the cruise, since I just turned 19 nearly two months before the cruise (you must be 18 to dine there) and we were iffy of dining in our least favorite restaurant, Parrot Cay, again. My northern Italian experience was relatively placid, with no sight or sound of screaming kids or seat-heeling brats.
I truly recommend sailing with Disney, even if itineraries are as short (sometimes lacking a day at sea, just like ours) as the Disney Wonder's! Excellent service and food aren't the only things I enjoy about this aforementioned cruise. For families who either don't condone gambling or worry about their kids inhaling secondhand smoke, they'll flip over the lack of casinos and the stringent smoking policy! Because of the ounces of magic Disney tosses at you each day onboard, I give this five stars!
My husband and I set sail on the Disney Wonder for a three-day cruise to the Bahamas and Castaway Cay. Boarding was quick and although we could not go to our rooms until 1:30 we decided to eat at Parrot Cay for lunch. The food was good and the desserts were enjoyable.
After we ate we were allowed in our rooms. The room was an inside handicapped and somewhat larger then usual. One problem was that my husband has a scooter and it was very difficult to get in and out of the room because it was at an angle. It was not set up very well for a handicapped guest.
Castaway Cay was nice. We could have spent two days there instead of one. The characters were there which made it enjoyable for the kids.
Palo's was very nice for dining. The food was great and Sean was a great server. Should have ate there all three days.
Leaving the ship was quick and organized. Would I choose Disney again? I don't think so. A specific crew member was very rude to my husband because he was on a scooter. Wewent to guest relations and they took the info. We never heard anything after that conversation. An apology would have been nice.
My family and I sailed the Disney Wonder on 11/8 for a 3 night cruise stopping in Nassau and Castaway Cay. It was the occasion of my husband's 40th birthday. We have never been on a cruise, but it has been something my husband always wanted to do, so this birthday seemed to be a good time. We knew our son would be a bit young to really absorb the experience, but we also knew we would not feel out of place on a Disney cruise with a 2 year old child in tow.
We spent the night in Orlando at the Homewood Suites hotel on International Blvd. Very nice facility, clean, comfortable with a great breakfast. We drove to Port Canaveral (approx. 1 hour) and parked at the port. As we expected with everything Disney, the service was wonderful and the check-in was seamless. We were in our stateroom by 2:30 p.m. after arriving at the port at 1:45 p.m.
Our son proceeded to take a long overdue nap while we acquainted ourselves with the room (6578). Over the course of the course, we were just amazed at howsoundproof the cabins are. We could not hear the folks on either side of us nor the folks above us. Occasionally, we would hear kids running in the hall outside. We did the mandatory evacuation drill at 4:00 p.m.(our son was not happy about being awakened for that!) and we attended the send off show on Deck 4.
We dined at Triton's, Animator's Palette and Parrot Cay. The food was fine, but nothing was exceptional. I would suggest that parents of young toddlers bring snacks (e.g. cut apple wedges, crackers, etc.) as the food delivery time is fine for adults who are relaxing and talking, but it is a bit long for a hungry toddler. Our servers were great; they were very patient with our son and after the first night, they began delivering his food even before the appetizers for the rest of the table arrived. They also remembered his preference for broccoli cooked really well and aversion to desserts. We were confused on the morning of disembarkation about when we were scheduled for breakfast, but we were accommodated very easily. Outside of the scheduled dining rooms, we loved the room service available as we would order wine with crackers, cheese and fruit every evening after our son went to sleep (around 9 p.m) and then we would sit on the verandah talking about our day and just things in general (what a luxury to have uninterrupted conversations when you have a toddler!). We also ordered our breakfast to be delivered every morning. Fruit plate, muffins, cereal and GREAT coffee! The delivery was always within the time we requested. Our stateroom steward kept the room spotless. I will admit I was a bit put off by the constant mention of gratuities, but these folks work hard and they really put great effort into it. I actually ended up tipping higher than the amounts recommended.
Nassau was OK. It is what it is and that is a port town with day trippers out to spend money. We walked around for about an hour and half and then went back to the boat for lunch and his nap. We spent the remaining afternoon in the Mickey wade pool, which he enjoyed, but not as much as he could have. The pool is supposed to be for toddlers only, but there were a lot of bigger kids (5-9 years old) who just couldn't seem to stay away from that area, even after the Disney life guard shooed them back to the pool for the bigger kids.
Castaway Cay is AWESOME and I wish the cruise had skipped Nassau and spent two nights at CC. We spent an hour at the Family Beach, which is rocking with kids, but there was still plenty of chairs and loungers. We snagged an area under a shady palm tree right off the bat; it came in handy later for our son's nap. After the beach, we rented bikes and took a self guided tour of the island; this was my best experience! Our son loved the bike ride and it felt great to get a bit of exercise in such beautiful surroundings. After the bike ride, we ate lunch at Cookie's BBQ. The lunch was excellent, much better than what we had on board. After lunch, we put our son in a hammock and he slept for 1.5 hours while swinging in the breeze under the shady palm tree. Meanwhile, my husband and I took advantage of the two for one drinks the local bar was offering. My only suggestion would be to offer more options for families with really young children; not everyone with a young child wants to send them off to a nursery just b/c it is vacation, although for some I am sure this is a very welcome respite. I would suggest a small library with board books and a sand box on board. On CC, I would suggest a jungle gym with bucket swings and a slide, again, for the toddlers. Another tip for toddler parents: bring your own plastic shovel and bucket, it is worth it.
As we normally had our son in bed by 9 p.m., we did not see many of the shows. However, we did stay up to watch the Disney Dreams show on the last night and it was top notch. As good as any we have seen in NYC. We also did not take our son to the Flounder's Reef Nursery.
Disembarkation was a complete breeze; 15 minutes from the time we walked off the boat to the time we got in our car. We were on the road by 9 a.m. We will definitely be doing this again and are looking forward to our son being of an age where he will enjoy it as much as we did!
All I can say is WOW! I have been on over 60 cruises, and all I can say is once you've done a Disney cruise, all other cruises pale in comparison.
I was hesitant to go on this cruise. I was going with a girlfriend. We had no children with us. So what were we doing on a Disney cruise? It was a gift.
We arrived the day before and stayed at the Radisson Hotel in Port Canaveral. Fabulous value, fabulous hotel.
The next day we took the Radisson shuttle to the ship. We got there around noon and we figured there would be long lines. WRONG. Disney is so efficient that we were on the ship in less than 15 minutes. And what a welcome we got. They ask your name when boarding the ship, they announce your arrival and all of a sudden there is clapping for you. Then one crew member is assigned to you to advise you when the staterooms would be available and directed you to the lunch buffet being served.
When we finally got to our stateroom, all I could say was WOW -- it washuge! The bathroom design is fabulous. The rooms are good sized. My biggest complaint is the toilet paper (sand paper).
Changing dining rooms every night was so much fun. You got a different room every night, but the same servers. Excellent idea. The food (which I expected to be the quality of the Disney park food) was to die for (well -- I gained 5 pounds eating it -- does that tell you anything?)
The service on the ship was impeccable. From our cabin steward (Edgar) to our dining room servers (Lloyd, Amanda and Ali the head waiter) were eager to please and wonderful to deal with. Ali even brought me recipes for the some of the dishes I enjoyed.
Nassau is Nassau -- it's a port I can do without. However, Castaway Keys is unbelievable. Once again, Disney has outdone themselves. The Island is beautiful. The adult's only beach is so peaceful. The tram system works wonderfully. The BBQ they had was delicious.
I can usually nitpick at a cruise. I feel I've done enough cruises to be able to do so. However, the only thing I could find wrong with this cruise was the toilet paper. The shows, the fireworks at sea, Mickey on a Zipline -- I guess as an adult without kids I could complain that I had to shove all the little ones out of the way so I could get my one on one time with Mickey :)
This cruise makes you a kid again. People without children should not hesitate to take this cruise. Family oriented or not, it was a blast!
This is my sixth Disney cruise, and I wanted to give a thumbs up to the newly reconditioned Magic. The entertainment broadway style shows were fantastic, and the new Disney Dreams really were great.
However, the comedian really was quite bad, and to be quite frank, a lot of folks walked out on her.
As for excursions, if you go to St Marteen, stay on the boat. The water is too choppy for snorkeling and the reefs are nasty. The island is littered with plastic bags and tires -- a lot like the bad parts of New Jersey.
The Dolphin encounter on St. Marteen is a total waste and should be avoided as the service staff there does not care about the customer. I made Disney aware of this and they are looking into it.
Let me end on a very positive note -- the staff on the Magic are amazing. They truly cater to your every need and define service.
Overall it was a great experience and one we will definitely consider doing again.
We took the 3 day cruise to Nassau and Disney's private island Castaway Cay. Our party included 6 kids--ages 20 mos.-8 years old and 7 adults. All of us were extremely satisfied with the overall experience even with a few disappointments.
We arrived at the Port around 12:30 and check-in and boarding were a snap. We had done the online checkin and that saved time, but they had many available stations. We got on the ship just after 1pm and sat down and had a nice buffet lunch. Part of our group didn't arrive until about 2:30 and they took much longer to check in so I would advise arriving around noon-1.
Before we left we had to perform the mandatory evacuation drill was went smoothly. After that we headed up to the top deck for the sail away party--which was nice--and the kids seemed to love it.
We had a 5:45 dinner seating b/c we had so many young kids. The dinners were all great and the servers went out of their way to make sure everyone washaving fun and enjoyed their meals.
On Friday we did the beach trip at Atlantis--this was our only hiccup of the day. Our transfer driver was clueless and eventually we just made him stop the bus and let us out as we could see the resort. Once there, we had issues with where we could and couldn't go at the resort. We eventually paid more $$ to upgrade to use the pools and slides, but other folks onboard said they were allowed to use everything---keep in mind this was an Atlantis issue, not Disney. Though it would be nice in this package just to buy access to everything even if it would cost more. It was a nice day trip.
On Saturday, we spent the day on Castaway Cay--the private island. It was great--beautiful island and water. Our little guy loved playing in the water. My wife got a massage and loved it. I didn't make it to the private beach, but she said it was great and was very quiet--the family beach was obviously crowded. The best place was at the far end of the family beach--almost at the teen beach as that appeared to be the least crowded place. Lunch on the island is included and was very good.
We didn't get to take advantage of the shows at night because our guy needed to go to bed, but we heard good things. They also have good movies running on your TV the entire time if you get stuck in your room.
We had a deluxe family stateroom which was very nice. It had an open verandah with 2 chairs and a small table.
My only other complaint would be that the characters didn't just walk around as much as I thought they would--instead they mostly made appearances at planned times for photo shoots. I'd like to just see them interacting more if possible--perhaps though that would create too many logjams.
Overall, great experience and would definitely do it again.


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GADSDEN, Alabama -- Gadsden Police say they arrested three people Tuesday morning during an apparent burglary in progress.
According to a news release from Police Capt. Bobby Jackson, the incident occurred at 7:30 a.m. Tuesday at College Manor Apartments, 1408 Piedmont Cutoff. Dispatchers received a call from a 28-year-old resident at the apartments who said she and her daughter were upstairs in their apartment, locked in the bedroom, and two men were downstairs.
Upon arrival, officers arrested James Dunn, 27, of Gadsden near the front door of the apartment. Amanda Cash, 24, McDonough, Ga., was hiding inside Dunn's car, which was parked outside, Jackson said.
Officers heard someone run out of the back door. Outside, they arrested Christopher Crunkleton, 29, of Gadsden, in the woods behind the apartment.
The victim's purse was located inside Dunn's vehicle, and her flat screen television was found in the woods, Jackson said.
All three have been charged with first degree burglary and are being held without bond at the Etowah County Correctional Facility.

subset: commoncrawl


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For two years, a 22-foot cupola, with chipping white paint, cast a long shadow between rows of cars in the Penn State Dickinson School of Law's parking lot, a seemingly foreign artifact against the backdrop of a newly renovated Trickett Hall.
"What is that thing? And what are you going to do with it?" onlookers asked Nancy Jean LaMont, the law school's assistant dean for administration.
Designed to architecturally mirror the clock tower atop the law school's Trickett Hall, the disembodied roof ornament is all that remains of the Levinson Curtilage, a dorm built in 1953 and demolished during the revamping of the school between 2008 and 2009.
Last week, Dickinson College contracted a crane to move the delicate column of rotting wood from its makeshift home beside two blue trash receptacles to a spot between its building on 5 N. Orange St. and the nearby railroad tracks.
The college plans to refurbish the cupola, mount it on a concrete pad and turn it into a giant birdhouse to place on the Rush Campus near the Morgan residence hall — an honorary tribute to students who have graduated from Dickinson College and Dickinson Law School, said Ken Shultes, Dickinson College vice president for campus operations.
Dickinson College plans to refurbish 22-foot roof ornament
LAUREN BOYER, The Patriot-News By
on March 09, 2010 at 8:45 PM, updated March 09, 2010 at 8:47 PM
on March 09, 2010 at 8:45 PM, updated March 09, 2010 at 8:47 PM


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Goodland Presbyterian Childrens Home
Rating: 5 stars 4 4 reviews
1216 N 4200 Rd Hugo OK 74743 USA
Our mission is to provide the best educational environment that meets the needs of today''s youth regardless of socio-economic status.
Programs include an individualized education program for youth grades K-12, a residential program structured according to a traditional family model and technical skills training for all students.
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According to The Cleveland Plain Dealer, the latest viral video stars are Jill and Kenvin Heinz of St. Paul, Minn. The couple wanted to make a grand entrance at their wedding by having the wedding party dance down the aisle to Chris Brown's "Forever."
The couple appeared on ABC's "Good Morning America" today to talk about the experience.
Do you have a funny video to share? Upload it HERE.


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Amile Jefferson is one of the most coveted high school seniors in the country. The Friends Central forward recorded 12 points and five rebounds while playing against one of the best post players in the country in Kaleb Tarczewski of St. Mark's (MA).
Jefferson is considering a handful of Division I programs, but the two considered to be in the lead for his services are Villanova and Duke.
As recently as Wednesday, both coaches were seen at Friends Central to take in the young man's diverse skill set.
Jefferson has taken official visits to Duke, N.C. State, Ohio State, Temple, and Villanova.
He currently has no timetable for a decision, saying that it is "day-to-day at this point" and he will need to sit down with his father in the coming weeks to make a decision.


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Steve Douglas — "My Three Sons": One of the longer-running situation comedies of the era, the show about a widower raising triplet sons aired from 1960 to 1972. In an era when single fatherhood wasn't publicized, Douglas showed viewers how this father could step up to the plate as a single dad and do a good job maintaining a stable household.
Frank Costanza — "Seinfeld": The show about nothing gave birth to one of television's most memorable supporting players. Frank Costanza was the outspoken, boorish and overly serious father to Jerry's friend George. Eternally high-strung, Frank yelled more than he spoke and routinely butted heads with equally dysfunctional wife Estelle. Fans of Frank Costanza may have enjoyed a similarly quirky character in Arthur Spooner (also played by Jerry Stiller) on "The King of Queens."
Mike Brady — "The Brady Bunch": It takes quite a man to be the father to three biological sons and three adopted daughters, but architect Mike Brady manages to pull it off. Never short of fatherly advice and time for quiet moments with the wife, Brady is a master at balancing work and family.
Dr. Heathcliff Huxtable — "The Cosby Show": In one of the first prime time shows to address upscale African-Americans, Cliff Huxtable was the lovable dad who reared his five kids with witty one-liners. With the comic genius of Bill Cosby behind the success of the show, and the endearing nature of Huxtable, it's no wonder the show lasted for eight seasons.
Homer Simpson — "The Simpsons": There are certainly the Jim Anderson's of the "Father Knows Best" variety of TV dads, but Homer tips the dad scale entirely in the other direction. Lazy, gluttonous and often half-witted, it's a wonder Homer was able to hold down a job to care for his family. But at the crux of this underachiever was a heart of gold ... or doughnuts. You decide.
Ray Barone — "Everybody Loves Raymond": "Newsday" sportswriter and dad to twin boys and a daughter, Ray's biggest feat was being able to head his family unit despite the interference of his parents — who lived right across the street. Ray was an everyman who navigated his wife's mood swings and family stress with not nearly as much finesse as he showed on the golf course.
Archie Bunker — "All in the Family": Loud, bigoted and conservative, Archie was the complete opposite of his liberal daughter and her "meathead" husband. Archie's commentary may have been offensive and controversial — especially in the time in which the sitcom aired — but viewers could tell he had his family's best interests at heart.
Tony Soprano — "The Sopranos": What's a better ally for a son or daughter than a dad who's other family is a criminal organization? Tony may not have many redeemable qualities, but he did his best to keep the family together amid the pressure cooker that was his life of crime.
Steve Keaton — "Family Ties": It's hard being a former hippie and raising a conservative, Ronald Reagan-loving son. Together with his wife, Keaton did a good job at tackling the tough questions of the 1980s.
Al Bundy — "Married With Children": Al Bundy served as a role model to all dads out there, showing the world what NOT to do. Faced with a lousy job, bumbling wife, airhead daughter and underachiever son, the only thing Al had to look forward to at home was a comfortable couch.
Charles Ingalls — "Little House on the Prairie": A hardworking frontiersman, Charles was soft-spoken and always put the needs of his family first. Ingalls showed all dads what it was to be the rock of the family, especially when modern conveniences like running water and cable TV sports had yet to be invented.
Who's your favorite television dad? Let us know in the comments section below!
Also see "Father's Day quotes: Celebrate dad with these funny — and sincere — Father's Day quotations." Follow Booth Features on Twitter: @BoothFeatures.


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Early voting ends Saturday for the May 4 elections. The most high profile issue on the ballot will be renewal of tolls on the Crescent City Connection for 20 years.
A new election was ordered March 5 after a Baton Rouge judge found some voters were wrongly denied their right to vote when they were given provisional ballots that excluded local issues. Voters in Orleans, Jefferson and Plaquemines parishes will decide the referendum.
In Jefferson Parish, voters will elect a district court judge and mayor and city councilman in Westwego. Also on the ballot are several tax propositions.
In New Orleans, voters will decide a runoff for juvenile court judge. Early voting is from 8:30 a.m. until 6 p.m. at City Hall, 1300 Perdido St., Room 1W23; 8870 Chef Menteur Highway; and the Algiers Courthouse, 225 Morgan St., Room 105, Algiers.
In Jefferson Parish, ballots may be cast at the Registrar of Voters offices from 8:30 a.m. until 6 p.m.:
*Elmwood, Suite 502, Joseph S. Yenni Building, 1221 Elmwood Park Blvd.
*Kenner -- 408 Minor St.
*Marrero -- Suite C-2, Charles Odom Sr. Building, 5001 West Bank Expressway.


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Amy Newmark is Chicken Soup for the Soul's publisher and editor-in-chief, after a 30-year career as a writer, speaker, financial analyst, and business executive in the worlds of finance and telecommunications. Amy is a magna cum laude graduate of Harvard College, where she majored in Portuguese, minored in French, and traveled extensively. She and her husband have four grown children.
After a long career writing books on telecommunications, voluminous financial reports, business plans, and corporate press releases, Chicken Soup for the Soul is a breath of fresh air for Amy. She has co-authored more than four dozen Chicken Soup for the Soul books and has edited another three dozen.
- Chicken Soup for the Soul: Messages from Heaven
- Chicken Soup for the Soul: Family Caregivers
- Chicken Soup for the Soul: Find Your Happiness
Past Shows:
Heavenly Messages & Open Lines
In the first half, publisher of the Chicken Soup for the Soul series, Amy Newmark, discussed her work creating a compilation of the best miraculous stories of signs and messages from beyond. Open Lines followed. ... More »Host: George Noory


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Join us in the Poetry Library over two consecutive weeks when we'll discuss the ten books shortlisted for this year's TS Eliot Prize, described as the 'world's top poetry award'.
This free event requires a ticket, so please reserve your ticket online (£1.45 transaction fee) or by phone 0844 847 9910 (£2.50 transaction fee).
The events will take place on Monday 6th December and Monday 13th DEcember from 6:30pm.
Source: Southbank Centre
Categories: Poetry News


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Wednesday, October 26, 2016
Feathered Weapons
The Penguin of Madagascar The Penguin of Madagascar The Penguin of Madagascar The ... Continue Reading →
eOne Inks Slew of Broadcast Deals
Entertainment One Family (eOne) has secured major broadcast agreements around the world for over 100 hours of kids' programming from its catalog, which includes animated hits ... Continue Reading →
Nick Offers On-Air Feast Thanksgiving Week
Nickelodeon will be serving up a hearty helping of entertainment for Thanksgiving week, kicking off Monday, November 24. Highlights include new episodes of toon favorites, an original ... Continue Reading →
News Bytes: Merged Animafest, 'Belladonna' Restored and More
Wrapping up the week with the following desk-clearing news items: • After years of alternating its focus, The World Festival of Animated Film – Animafest Zagreb has merged features ... Continue Reading →
New 'SpongeBob' Trailer Gets Real
Nickelodeon and Paramount have debuted a new trailer for the highly anticipated hybrid flick The SpongeBob Movie: Sponge Out of Water, giving fans a broader look at the scope of the ... Continue Reading →
'Geronimo,' 'Taka & Maka' Sell for Atlantyca
Italy's Atlantyca Entertainment has secured a host of post-MIPCOM 2014 broadcast sales for a variety of its key distribution properties. SVT (Sweden), NRK (Norway) have acquired ... Continue Reading →
Hulu Extends Viacom Partnership
Hulu's SVP, Head of Content Craig Erwich has announced that the streaming service has extended its partnership with Viacom, building the relationship began in 2011. The new deal ... Continue Reading →
9 Story's Nutbrown Hare Makes International Friends
Coming out of the 2014 edition of the MIPCOM market, 9 Story Media Group announces it has inked multiple deals for preschool animation Guess How Much I Love You – The Adventures ... Continue Reading →
Atlantyca, Superprod Team Up for New 'Geronimo Stilton' Series
Atlantyca Entertainment took advantage of the MIPCOM event to announce its deal with France-based studio Superprod to produce The New Adventures of Geronimo Stilton, with the participation ... Continue Reading →
Deals, Deals and More Deals from MIPCOM
MIPCOM is now under way in Cannes, with buyers and sellers from all over the world converging to work out deals. Here's the latest from the Croisette: • Cartoon Network U.K. ... Continue Reading →


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Foreign student, Tong, first to get visa
By Aria Plants
Chinese foreign exchange student Tong Lin is not the first to acquire a visa from Montoursville Area High School; however she is the first to get a certain type of visa.
A visa is an endorsement on a passport indicating that the holder is allowed to enter, leave or stay for a specified period of time in a country. Junior Tong Lin came to Montoursville from China to expand her horizons and learn different cultures.
Lin originally came here on her J1 visa, which was very difficult to receive.
Lin first had to go to the American Locating Embassy, and the people there asked her multiple questions about things like her family and life at home in China. However, that is just the ordinary visa one must get to travel to another country for a long period of time, for example, a school year.
Lin currently is staying with the McNamara's for the remainder of this school year. Lin has been staying with the McNamara's and really is enjoying her stay there.
Where Lin goes off the path of regular foreign exchange student though, is that she is staying in the country for another year, to finish out her senior year in America.
She cannot wait to go home to her family in China though; she misses them very much, as anyone would expect.
Lin will be staying with art teacher Victoria Stetts, who Lin said is "very nice" and she looks forward to the stay with her and her family.
Lin must apply for a F1 visa, which allows her to become an international student rather than an exchange student.
Lin said, "It's not fair, getting visa's are much easier for Americans than Chinese."
Sadly though, J1 visas are easier to get than F1 visas, so Lin has her work cut out for her when she goes home.
Lin would like to continue her studies in the United States and receive a higher education by attending college. One school she is considering is Penn State University. Lin also would maybe, she stressed maybe, would like to major in international business.
Even though Lin really misses her home country, she sees the opportunities that she could possibly reap in the United States.


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Tapping into the market of long-distance riding, Volagi introduces the 2011 Venga SL road bike. Its form, shape and geometry are designed specific to meet the demands of endurance cyclists. Its design includes a pass through for the seat tube, top tube and its seat stays are forged as one. Vertical travel is also available for damping and flexibility at the rear.
The SL frame is made from 30/24T high-modulus carbon fiber. It uses Dura-Ace components that feature the latest STI carbon levers. As for the bottom bracket, FSA SL-K BB30 crank system is in place with its monocoque composite design. For added stiffness, it possess a 30mm AL 7075 spindle with AL 7075 T6 CNC'd 50/34 chain ring.
Volagi uses an E7 Sync Ti saddle for its ergonomic design and multi-postition platform. This has a cutout feature for better circulation. The saddle has a microfiber cover with UltraLite foam on its Dual Density suspension base and titanium rails.
The wheels are E7 Ignite SL. They are made from high-modulus carbon with a 30mm x 25mm aero profile clincher rim. FSA bar and stem and Avid BB7 disc brakes match other components that complete the Venga SL as durable, functional and fast. MSRP is $5595.


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Post Time: 1:10
Analysis by Ron Rippey
1 - COURAGE TO BE improved with blinkers, improves some more with switch to Paco Lopez and move to Costa stable. MIDNIGHT CHASE rallied three wide to take lead, but couldn't hold on. Second in last pair since dropping in class. COLD DRAFT adds blinkers and Lasix for dip into claimer for first time.
2 - GRAPPLE was sharp third exactly a month ago for Levine while main threat FIFTYCENTSONDOLLAR hasn't raced since Aug. SUPERLOOK won last time entered for this nickel tag.
3 - SILVER FAVORITE has been a beaten favorite in 4 of past 6 outings. Drops down for strong barn. AIN'TSUPERSTITIOUS looks ready to stretch out. BRAHMINCAL sheds 9 lbs. and could steal this, but apprentice rider is winless in 54 races this year.
4 - POWERFUL STORM reverses close photo finish two starts back with TELL IT TO MYHEART after drawing rail and getting a little more distance to close. MIDTOWN BAILEY tries blinkers.
5 - SELFLESS (BEST BET) takes huge drop in class for Pletcher after showing some speed and Bravo is named to ride. PERKY AL overhauls U BOAT ALLEY again.
6 - LEATHER hung late after making up 9 lengths. Right back 12 days later with Bravo. CORREDOR'S SONG won last time entered for a claiming price. BAD ACTION must escape also eligibles. AFTERNOON CAT will show speed stretching out from sprint.
7 - TWIX IN THE CITY drops from Grade 3 effort for Saratoga training champ Linda Rice. Bravo (24% winners) rides. Snaps SISTER IN THE CITY's two-race winning streak. UNICORN GIRL coasted on rail in first try at Big M. Threat if she can go just a little quicker.
8 - GENERAL PERFECT returns to turf after flop in slop. Won 2 of past 4 outings in grass sprints and beat both BEAR HEART and A UNIQUE TREASURE two races back.
9 - MING DYNASTY tumbles from allowance company to bottom of claiming barrel. Attracts C.C. Lopez to ride vs. weak field. Key over SNUCKINANDSNUCKOUT, PRAYER ANSWERED and IMPRESSIVE TIME.


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Each year, an unknown number of hunters die unexpectedly from heart attacks and sudden cardiac arrests, brought on by the strenuous exercise and dramatic bursts of activity that hunting can bring.
With the first of Michigan hunting seasons starting in a few weeks, doctors, nurses and nutritionists from the University of Michigan Cardiovascular Center have teamed up with Cabela's for the second annual Heart of the Hunter Health Fair.
From 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Saturday and from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Sunday, visitors to the U-M tents in front of the store will be able to get their cardiovascular risk, weight, blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol levels checked free. They can also learn from U-M experts about their personal cardiovascular health risks and what they can do now to prevent problems down the road.
Appointments for visits to the U-M Cardiovascular Center will even be available for those who want individualized follow-up.
For information on the U-M Cardiovascular Center, visit www.umcvc.org or call 1-888-287-1082.


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Born at Paris, 11 April, 1831; died there 18 June, 1865. His father was professor at the Faculté de Droit. He received his classical education at the Collage Saint-Louis. According to his father's wish he studied law, but having finished his legal course he studied philosophy and theology. He then became closely united with Charles and Adolphe, later Cardinal Perraud, and this small group with Father Gratry, under the guidance of Father Pététol, began the restoration of the Oratory in France. He was ordained priest in 1858, appointed chaplain to the Lycée Saint-Louis in 1860, and one year later was called to the professorship of ecclesiastical history at the Sorbonne. For some time he was forced by illness to abandon his lectures.
He had been united in intimate friendship with the great Catholic leaders of the time in France, including Ozanam, Montalembert, Cochin, and especially Lacordaire. By his kind and affectionate nature Perreyve exercised a great influence on those around him, especially on young men.
Among his works were: "De la critique des Evangiles" (Paris, 1859); "Entretiens sur l'Eglise catholique" (2 vols., Paris, 1901); "La Journée des malades" (Paris, 1908); "Biographies et panégyriques" (Paris, 1907); "Souvenirs de première communion" (Paris, 1899); "Sermons" (Paris, 1901); "Deux roses et deux Noëls" (Paris, 1907); "Méditations sur l'Evangile de Saint Jean" (Paris, 1907); "Méditations sur les saints ordres" (Paris, 1901). Some of his letters have also been published in book form.
The Catholic Encyclopedia is the most comprehensive resource on Catholic teaching, history, and information ever gathered in all of human history. This easy-to-search online version was originally printed between 1907 and 1912 in fifteen hard copy volumes.
Designed to present its readers with the full body of Catholic teaching, the Encyclopedia contains not only precise statements of what the Church has defined, but also an impartial record of different views of acknowledged authority on all disputed questions, national, political or factional. In the determination of the truth the most recent and acknowledged scientific methods are employed, and the results of the latest research in theology, philosophy, history, apologetics, archaeology, and other sciences are given careful consideration.
No one who is interested in human history, past and present, can ignore the Catholic Church, either as an institution which has been the central figure in the civilized world for nearly two thousand years, decisively affecting its destinies, religious, literary, scientific, social and political, or as an existing power whose influence and activity extend to every part of the globe. In the past century the Church has grown both extensively and intensively among English-speaking peoples. Their living interests demand that they should have the means of informing themselves about this vast institution, which, whether they are Catholics or not, affects their fortunes and their destiny.
Copyright © Catholic Encyclopedia. Robert Appleton Company New York, NY. Volume 1: 1907; Volume 2: 1907; Volume 3: 1908; Volume 4: 1908; Volume 5: 1909; Volume 6: 1909; Volume 7: 1910; Volume 8: 1910; Volume 9: 1910; Volume 10: 1911; Volume 11: - 1911; Volume 12: - 1911; Volume 13: - 1912; Volume 14: 1912; Volume 15: 1912
Catholic Online Catholic Encyclopedia Digital version Compiled and Copyright © Catholic Online


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– Under the Covers With Leonardo: In the run-up to the National Gallery's big Leonardo show, Jonathan Jones has decided to take a dishy look at the artist's sexuality, serving up the old gossip for a whole new generation of art lovers. The old master, as everyone knows, was gay: hit twice with sodomy charges (but never prosecuted, perhaps on account of his and his conquests's connections), Leonardo lived with a coterie of young hunks, including the incorrigible thief Salai, whom, like Francis Bacon's George Dyer, may have been the love of his life. But, Jones posits, the Renaissance artist's passion also held room for women, as illustrated by his deeply sexy portraits, including the Virgin Mary that, famously, had to be returned to Leonardo because it kept giving its new owner an erection. [Guardian]
– Chuck Close Also Suing eBay: More news has emerged about the federal class action lawsuit filed by a group of artists including Chuck Close, Laddie John Dill, and the estate of Robert Graham. In addition to suing major auction houses Christie's and Sotheby's, the group is going after online auctioneer eBayfor systematically failing to comply with the California ResaleRoyalties Act of 1977. They argue that the Web site, like the other auctioneers, concealed the residencies of sellers fromCalifornia in order to avoid paying royalties to living artists andthe heirs of artists recently deceased. [Courthouse News]
– Philadelphia Seeks Its Own High Line: Inspired by thesuccessful revival of the elevated railway line in New York, residentsof Philadelphia have begun preparing designs and raising money to lenda similar treatment to the Reading Viaduct railway. The surrounding neighborhood was at one time sufficiently remote and unkempt to serve as a spooky backdrop for David Lynch's 1977 film "Eraserhead." [AP]
– Bling Bling: At Christie's high-end jewelry saleTuesday, a rare 32.77-carat yellow diamond sold for $6.6 million to ananonymous buyer against an estimate of $6-8 million. The auctiongarnered over $46 million for the house, and had a sell-through rate of83 percent by lot and 93 percent by value. [Press Release]
– Degas Gets His Own Committee: A Comité Edgar Degas has been created in France by his heirs to protect the artist's work and legacy. The committee will address any abusive use of the ballerina-painter's pictures and endorse the work of select scholars. Degas's oeuvre has been in the public domain since 1987, 70 years after the artist's death. [AMA]
– Armenian Museum Sues to Keep Blood Painting: As if it wasn't weird enough that the artwork of assisted-suicide activist Dr. Jack Kevorkian was headed to auction on October 28, the Armenian Library and Museum of America is now suing Kevorkian's niece and sole heir, Ava Janus, to keep them from selling. The museum currently holds 17 Kevorkian paintings with an estimated worth of $2.5-3.5 million, including one done with a pint of his own blood, and claims that Kevorkian, who was of Armenian descent, donated the works in question to the museum over a decade ago. [Courthouse News]
– Danish Culture Minister Steers Risky Course: The new Danish minister of culture Uffe Elbaek plans to make drastic changes to the country's culture policy. His idea of replacing older, more established elements with newer movements and younger artists has prompted backlash from the conservative Danish press. [Eurotopics]
– National Academy Museum & School's Subtle Makeover: The Wall Street Journal's Lance Esplund considers the National Academy Museum & School's new 15-month, $3.5 million renovation, calling it "seamless, almost handless." Under the auspices of architecture firm Bade Stageberg Cox, "the schoolrooms feel refreshed," "the gift shop has been removed," and "galleries have been modernized." [WSJ]
– Giant Sculpture Park for Oslo Gets Green Light: A park featuring over 80 sculptures by international artists including James Turrell, Dan Graham, and Jenny Holzer will be unveiled in Oslo in 2014. The initiative has been funded by property investor and collector Christian Ringnes, who donated €39 million ($54 million) to the cause. Ringnes had originally planned to give the park a "feminine" theme, but thankfully, abandoned that idea following criticism and derision. [TAN]
– Architect Pedro Ramirez Vazquez Awarded Fine Arts Medal: Ramirez Vazquez has designed Mexico's Basilica Guadalupe, the Museum of Anthropology and History, and the Museum of Modern Art. "Our discipline can be original if it relies on its roots because they do not change over time," he said upon receiving the award from Mexico's National Institute of Fine Arts. [Art Daily]
– A New Director for Paris's Nuit Blanche: Next year, director of the Centre Pompidou-Metz Laurent Le Bon will take the helm of Nuit Blanche, the city-wide contemporary art event that takes place in Paris every October for one night. Le Bon was behind Versailles's controversial shows of Jeff Koons, Xavier Veilhan, and Takashi Murakami, among many other high-profile exhibitions. [ParisArt]
– Rare Portrait of Nell Gwyn Unearthed: Experts have confirmed the authenticity of a provocative portrait brought forward for a new exhibition at London's National Portrait Gallery. Curator Gill Perry says he is "absolutely thrilled" to feature a portrait of Nell Gwyn, one of the first women to be allowed to work on the Western stage. [Guardian]
– Occupy Wall Street Declares War on Museums: Occupy Museums!, taking place today, is a protest planned outside three New York City museums — the New Museum, the Frick, and MoMA aimed at fighting the "intense commercialization and co-optation of art" that has occurred in recent years. [ITA]


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MUSKEGON TOWNSHIP, MI – No one is more "horrified" over allegations that a convicted sex offender stood on top of a tanning booth at a Muskegon Township business and tried to secretly record someone undressing in the adjoining room than the business owner himself.
Mark Archer, owner of Archers Speed Queen Laundromat, 2179 East Apple Ave., in Muskegon Township, said he is reeling from the Feb. 18 allegations that someone attempted to record a customer undressing there.
The laundromat also has tanning beds inside the same facility.
The suspect, a 37-year-old convicted sex offender on parole at the time of the incident, is currently lodged in the Ottawa County Jail, awaiting arraignment in Muskegon County 60th District Court on two charges: Attempting to capture images of an unclothed person, a five-year felony; and lying to police, a two-year, high court misdemeanor.
The defendant is also a fourth-time habitual offender, which increases the maximum possible penalty to life and 15 years, respectively, according to the prosecutor's office.
Police believe that the suspect wasn't successful in his attempt to record the victim undressing in the other room. At this time, investigators don't believe any images exist on the man's phone.
Archer said the man allegedly climbed on top of a chair with his phone and then "wrecked" a tanning bed by standing on it in an effort to record someone undressing in an adjoining room.
"We are horrified," Archer said in a phone interview late Tuesday, Feb. 25.
"I certainly feel victimized."
Archer said he is taking extra security measures since the incident occurred. Already the rooms have 8-foot ceilings, he said, and it appears the man reached over the dividing wall in an effort to videotape a customer with his phone.
"I can't combat a phone reaching over the wall," Archer said. "I can't help it if someone climbed up on top of a chair and wrecked my tanning bed."
Archer said, while he can control who he hires at the business, he certainly has no way of weeding out sex offenders and parolees as customers.
Adding to the embarrassing publicity because of the incident, Archer said this year has started out difficult already with the extraordinary winter weather keeping many customers inside.
It's been a tough year financially, he said, and now Archer feels the Feb. 18 incident will only add additional problems for his business.
"Now we have to deal with the financial ramifications. It's no reflection of my staff or my wife or myself," Archer said of the incident.
The Archers have several other businesses in the county, including another laundromat with tanning beds in Roosevelt Park.
Authorities have not yet released the name of the suspect, as a warrant hadn't been formally signed by a Muskegon magistrate or judge as of late Feb. 25.
He has a lengthy criminal record, according to the Michigan Department of Corrections. He was convicted of criminal sexual conduct, second degree, in 2007, and spent prison time for home invasion, assault with a dangerous weapon and resisting and obstructing a police officer. He was paroled on Sept. 24, 2013.
Muskegon County Chief Assistant Prosecutor Timothy Maat said authorities were alerted to the incident by a woman at the laundromat when the incident occurred.
Police arrived to the scene and took statements from those there that indicated the man used his phone to try and record the person in the adjoining tanning room.
"It's alleged he used a phone with a camera to try and record a customer in the tanning booth," Maat said.
The Muskegon County Prosecutor's Office is encouraging anyone who believes they were recorded by someone at the business to call (231) 777-1666.
"Our office is encouraging any other possible victims to come forward with information and to contact the Muskegon Township Police (Department). Our office commends the quick action and thorough investigation of law enforcement that led to our office filing charges," Maat said.
Heather Lynn Peters covers police and fire, and writes a statewide food column, The Spunky Kitchen, for MLive Muskegon Chronicle. Email her at firstname.lastname@example.com and follow her on Twitter @HLPNEWS.


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The first trailer has been released for the outrageous new comedy "We're the Millers". starring Jennifer Aniston, Jason Sudeikis, Ed Helms and Emma Roberts. Helmed by Rawson Marshall Thurber ("Dodgeball: A True Underdog Story"), the film explores a truly unique and quirky concept, that could prove to be a real comedic gem if executed well.
Sudeikis stars as an amateur drug dealer, who with the help of a stripper (Aniston), a delinquent runaway (Roberts) and an enthusiastic, innocent fourth (Will Poulter), they pose as a family to cross the border and smuggle in a lot of drugs, for a huge reward from a shady businessman (Ed Helms).
The trailer was hilarious and original and I'm definitely looking forward to this film. I really like seeing Aniston breakaway from her standard rom-coms to try another edgier role, like the one she shined in in "Horrible Bosses".
Are you looking forward to the film? Let us know in the comments section below!
"We're the Millers" hits AMC Theatres on August 9th.
Source: MovieWeb
Get your tickets as well as theater and showtime information here!
Follow us on Twitter for your daily dose of AMC Movie News! @AMCMovieNews
Follow me @Amirosie


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STATEN ISLAND, N.Y -- A brutish drug felon who pummeled his wife's small dog to death is now accused of attacking a city Correction officer in a Staten Island courthouse — after the officer let him out of his cell to clean up a mess he made.
The alleged attack happened on Dec. 16, while Nashbert Smith, 28, was locked up in a holding cell at state Supreme Court in St. George.
Smith was awaiting a hearing that day, and when it was adjourned, he flipped out, a law enforcement source said.
The Criminal Court complaint against Smith details what prosecutors say happened:
Smith started throwing sandwiches and milk out of his cell, and when Correction Officer Louis Giraldi requested he stop, Smith replied, "I'm sorry. If you let me out, I will clean it up."
So Giraldi allowed him out of the cell to clean up the mess, and Smith punched him in the chest and started struggling with him. At that point, Correction Officer Steve Daluise moved in to help, and Smith spat at him and struggled with them both before he was subdued.
Giraldi sprained his right hand in the struggle.
Smith was formally charged in connection with the assault on Sunday. He faces varying counts of second- and third-degree assault and second-degree attempted assault, as well as aggravated harassment of an employee by an inmate, second-degree obstructing governmental administration and second-degree harassment, said Peter N. Spencer, a spokesman for District Attorney Daniel Donovan.
Smith last week was sentenced to a two-year prison term for the June 1 dog beating. Prosecutors said he became enraged when the dog — a 5-year-old Jack Russell terrier named Lady —soiled the floor in his apartment.
He telephoned his wife, Diamond, and told her to come home, and when she arrived, he choked Lady and swung the dog, who was on its leash, into a wall, according to a law enforcement source. He also beat the helpless animal, court papers stated.
Smith has three additional criminal convictions in his past, two of them drug-related.
The third case was for a sex crime — in May 2003, Smith, then 19, was accused of having sex with a girl younger than 15. He pleaded guilty two months later to a misdemeanor count of sexual misconduct and was sentenced to nine months in jail, online records show.
---Follow @siadvance on Twitter


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In these stressful economic times it's important to keep in shape, but many can no longer afford to pay gym or fitness club fees. Alternatives can easily be found at little or no cost.
Basketball courts, cross-country skiing, children's activities, swimming, and tennis are all free in the area and many people walk at the malls or go jogging.
Cherie Moore, 62, and her husband, Robert, 79, work out at Johnny O's Fitness Club, 2136 Robinson Road in Summit Township, but they also do fitness routines at their Summit Township home. Since recuperating from heart problems they do stretching for cardiac fitness with surgical rubber bands.
"Laundry detergent and water bottles work for weight lifting and climbing steps is good for the heart," said Cherie Moore.
"The library offers free videos and DVDs and there are numerous Web sites for fitness and nutrition."
SparkPeople.com is a free online diet and healthy living community with more than 3 million members who provide support and motivation to each other.
"My husband and I started dieting the first week in January and I have found some great recipes on this Web site," she said.
The Jackson YMCA offers special rates for families and longtime members based on a percentage of income and in some cases will go up to 65 percent off. The regular rate for families is $57 per month. Some Medicare insurance programs and AARP provide assistance for seniors.
"Spas are offered free of charge and healthy potlucks are held in collaboration with Allegiance Health, Jackson Public Schools, and Passages," said Carol Raykovich, development director. A large after-school program is also available with 60 percent financial assistance.
Swimming, basketball, track, paddle and racket ball, Tae Kwon Do, and Aikido are available at the YMCA, along with yoga and Pilates classes.
"Our financial assistance programs allow folks to continue in this economy," said Michele Lucenti, YMCA fitness director.
Silver Sneakers fitness classes are offered at the Y and at Curves fitness which has several centers in the Jackson area for seniors participating in some Medicare health plans and AARP.
Check out curves.com and silversneakers.com for more information.
The Jackson Fitness Council promotes many low- or no-cost fitness and wellness activities, including bike trails, hiking, running and mountain biking at Ella Sharp Park and on the Falling Waters Trail.
The organization advocates for a healthy physical activity environment in the county through a calendar of activities and events on its Web site, www.fitnesscouncil.org.
"Getting involved in volunteer projects like the Grand River clean-up project (G.R.E.A.T.) can be a great way to exercise outdoors," said TenBrink. "Go kayaking, plant a garden, or join the Daffodil Society. They're all free."
For more information check the Web site or call 990-9798.


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He's flown coast to coast and spoken at a countless number of clinics and other functions, making it feel like one of the shortest offseasons of his coaching career.
"It's been fun," Murphy said.
Murphy and the Crimson Tide's whirlwind offseason officially ended Wednesday. Though weather wouldn't permit it to do anything outside, Alabama held its first official practice for the 2013 season.
"Everyone's fired up to go," junior pitcher Jackie Traina said. "It went so quick ... This is our time to get ready for something that will happen in June."
Alabama returns 14 letter-winners from last year's team, but there are a few, significant holes to fill. There will be new regulars at first base, right field, center field, catcher and designated player, all of which were filled by seniors in 2012.
The roster, though, has been reloaded with four freshmen -- Kallie Case, Andrea Hawkins, Leona Lafaele, Hayley McCleney -- and a junior-college transfer -- Molly Fichtner.
"They fit in chemistry-wise. It's like they've always been here," Murphy said. "We miss everybody but it's like we've got five new kids that have been here forever."
Among the key returnees are outfielder Kayla Braud (.345, 60 Rs, 41 SBs), Kaila Hunt (.312, 21 HRs, 77 RBIs) and Traina, who was one of the Crimson Tide's best hitters and was simply a workhorse in the circle.
Traina threw 288 2/3 of Alabama's 451 innings in 2012, going 42-3 with 361 strikeouts and a 1.87 earned run average.
Murphy said he hopes sophomore Leslie Jury, who won 11 games but threw just 79 innings as a freshman, can help lessen Traina's load and give Alabama a dangerous one-two punch. Jury was dominant during fall ball, as she struck out 20 of 21 batters in a 4-0 win over Anderson University.
"She was really good," Murphy said. "She just kept building on that, which was a good thing to see."
This is new territory for Alabama, which had been one of the best programs in the country for years but hadn't won it all until 2012. Murphy said he hasn't had to look far for advice on how to maintain the same kind of hunger that drove last year's team.
There's no shame in taking a few tips from the back-to-back champion football and gymnastics programs at Alabama.
"You've got your great learning things right next door to you so you've got to take advantage of it," Murphy said. "I can't remember the last time anybody really talked about it, winning it or winning it again.
"I just think we're all trying to get better."


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The NeverEnding SXSWTuesday, October 1st, 2013
It seems as though we've only just recovered fully from the inaugural SXSW V2V in Las Vegas and we realize that SXSW Eco is next week! We've heard countless people describe reconnecting with old friends at the annual conference and festival in March as a high school reunion of sorts. To be truthful, living in the Austin area, there are people I only see at SXSW, but it wouldn't be Southby without them there.
Some final thoughts on V2V, it was one of the best SXSW experiences we've ever had, most memorable is the the edification we received on all things BitCoin on the bus ride to an evening event. As we've always said the best networking doesn't happen at parties, it happens in hallways or in places where you least expect it.
With SXSW Eco right around the corner, we'll be gearing up with some recommendations on the panels and keynotes that jump off the page at us, along with our daily updates duriing the Conference on best bets for the day.


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Hurst returned to Olympia, Dan Roach earns third term
By Kevin Hanson-The Courier-Herald
Christopher Hurst is preparing for a return engagement in Olympia, while Jan Shabro ties up loose ends and attempts to make some final, positive changes for constituents.
Dan Roach is contemplating what he will do when the next session opens in January, while Karen Willard reflects upon her first venture on the campaign trail and admits she's hooked on politics.
The four Plateau residents were drawn together the past year as each sought elective office, but only two could emerge victorious when the votes were counted following the Nov. 7 general election.
In races for 31st District seats in the state House of Representatives, incumbent Roach defeated challenger Willard for the Position 1 post. In the battle for Position 2, things went the other way as the challenger, Hurst, unseated two-term incumbent Shabro.
In the race for the district's Senate seat, incumbent Pam Roach held off repeat challenger Yvonne Ward (see separate story).
The Hurst-Shabro contest was the more glamorous of the two House races, based on name recognition alone. Democrat Hurst spent two terms in Olympia, elected by 31st District voters in 1998 and 2000, before walking away for family reasons. Republican Shabro, having spent eight years on the Pierce County Council, was then easily elected twice to fill the seat.
Hurst hopes to hit the ground running
Hurst, who will likely wind up with 54 percent support, once all votes are counted, figured he was in for a battle.
"We knew it would be tough," the recently-retired Black Diamond police commander said. "I had been in for two terms and Jan has been around for 12 years (county and House), so she's pretty well known, too.
"This was a significantly more difficult race than I had before."
The key to victory, Hurst said, was shoe leather.
"It was a full-court press from Day 1," the Greenwater resident said, noting the important role his wife played in his successful run.
"April and I just door-belled our hearts out," he added. "This was as much her victory as it was mine. We're a pretty unbeatable team."
Beyond knocking on doors, Hurst said, voters recalled his track record favorably. "I've always been known as being very independent," he said, citing a factor that plays well in the 31st District.
In addition, he believes, voters were turned off by some of the negative campaigning that went on. "I really think they made a strategic error," he said, referring to a barrage of ads by the Republican Party dredging up a prior conflict with the Washington State Law Enforcement Association.
"The nonsense they were sending out...that didn't reflect the real Chris Hurst," he said.
Turning his attention to matters still to come, Hurst said he will be welcomed by fellow Democrats as a veteran lawmaker, despite the four-year absence from Olympia. That will be key when it comes time for committee assignments to be doled out.
"I'd like to hit the ground running," Hurst said, noting he'll be meeting with House Speaker Frank Chopp in the coming days and getting in touch with city leaders from around the district.
"The political part is over," Hurst said. "Now it's all about what we can do for the district."
Shabro, who spent Thursday collecting yard signs, wasn't sure what derailed her re-election bid.
"I just don't know," she said, when asked if there was a reason voters turned her away. Her four years in Olympia had been free from scandal or controversy.
"I knew it was going to be close," she said, "so it wasn't a shock.
"I feel I've done a lot, but that's just the way things are."
Shabro, a Lake Tapps resident, now begins the process of leaving office and that includes passing along information to her former seatmates.
"There are bills I've started working on and those will be turned over to Pam and Dan," she said. Those are bills supporting her constituents, she said, "and we won't forget about them."
Shabro isn't sure what the future will hold, but certainly isn't ruling about the possibility of remaining in the public eye. Opportunities to work on behalf of citizens exist "and they usually seek me," she said. "I don't seek them."
Roach believes track record
made all the difference
Roach said he was "very happy" with the unofficial results, which show him capturing about 53 percent of the vote.
Despite a Democratic wave of success that swept many from the GOP out of office, Roach said voters in the 31st District noted "a clear difference between me and my opponent" - and chose to stay the course.
Roach, of Bonney Lake, said his success was built on a simple message that was delivered consistently throughout the campaign, whether in debates or meeting voters at their door. "We need to hold the line on taxes and hold government accountable," he said, reiterating a theme that struck a chord with voters.
Roach believes Willard was vulnerable because voters feared her apparent willingness to raise taxes. She spoke of state-run healthcare and pumping more money into education, Roach said. "If you add it up, it's a big chunk of money," he said, "and you can't do it without tax increases."
Roach also believes he was helped by building a positive reputation with constituents who approach his office looking for assistance.
"Our No. 1 thing is customer service," he said. "We can't solve every problem, but we can send people in the right direction."
With nearly two months remaining before the 2007 session kicks off, Roach said he'll be putting together legislation he plans to introduce and meeting with fellow Republicans to help organize the caucus.
Willard echoes the sentiment expressed by most candidates - campaigning is a grueling process that takes its toll - but she remains upbeat.
"It was a very good experience," the Wilkeson resident said. "I learned a lot about myself and a lot about politics."
When it comes to the nature of the political beast, Willard found people shouldn't be so cynical. "The general public ought not to be so pessimistic," she said. In her experience, she found "genuinely good people" both running for office and working behind the scenes.
Personally, Willard learned she likes being the one at the forefront. Until 2004, "I was just an ordinary, grassroots volunteer," she said, explaining she would never tackle a chore that involved meeting with the public.
Running for office changed all that. "I learned I love voter contact," she said. "If I was having a bad day, it just perked me right up."
Now, Willard admits to having caught the political bug.
"You've not seen the last of me," she said, clearly stating her intention to run again for political office.
Which office?
"I don't know," Willard said, adding she's been asked by those within the party to run again for the House and other posts, as well.
For now - after taking a week off to wind down from a long campaign - she intends to keep working for the Democratic Party and continue her involvement in the fight to save the Demonstration Forest in Bonney Lake.
Kevin Hanson can be reached at firstname.lastname@example.com.
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A polarization insensitive technique for highly efficient coupling between SOI waveguides and high mode field diameter single-mode fibers is reported. The proposed coupling structure is based on an inverted taper structure coupled to a fiber-adapted waveguide. The fiber-adapted waveguide is made by using the SiO2 layer under the Si waveguiding layer of the SOI wafer thus avoiding the use of extra materials such as polymers. The proposed coupling structure is aimed for being integrated with V-groove auto-alignment techniques. Coupling losses of 3.5dB and 3.7dB to 8μm mode field diameter single-mode fibers have been estimated by means of 3D-BPM simulations for TE and TM polarizations respectively and a 1550nm input signal wavelength.
© 2007 Optical Society of AmericaFull Article | PDF Article


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A.P.C. 'Fighter' Cotton & Wool Parka
Men's The North Face 'Patrick's Point' Quilted Vest,
A resilient, water-resistant quilted vest designed with lightweight, compressible Heatseeker synthetic insulation and ripstop lining comes equipped with a hook-and-loop flap chest pocket and zip pockets to warm your hands. The relaxed fit allows for easy, season-transitional layering underneath. Color(s): shady blue, tnf black, tnf dark grey heather, urban navy. ... Learn More
Men's Patagonia 'Synchilla Snap-T' Zip Fleece Vest, Size Large -
A classic layering-essential stand-collar vest made of bluesign-approved double-face fleece delivers quality warmth at the core while wicking away moisture and drying quickly. The elasticized binding offers maneuverable comfort that won't cause any rubbing or irritation when backpacking through the wilderness or careening down the snowy slopes. Color(s): black/ forge grey, nickel/ navy blue, ... Learn More
Men's Cutter & Buck 'Weathertec Sanders' Jacket, Size
A weather-ready jacket is pieced and seam-sealed from breathable, wind- and water-resistant polyester in a sleek silhouette. A quilted, insulated lining, fleece collar and chin guard keep you warm, while a removable, toggle-drawstring snap hood, elastic snow skirt and adjustable drawcord hem offer added protection from the elements. Articulated sleeves ... Learn More
Men's Arc'Teryx 'Rico' Athletic Fit Quilted Water Resistant
Crisp box quilting textures a burly winter jacket cut from Gore-Tex fabric with a wind- and water-resistant finish for superior warmth and protection. Stretch fleece side panels improve ventilation and range of motion. Color(s): black, caper, carbon steel. Brand: ARCTERYX. Style Name:Arc'Teryx 'Rico' Athletic Fit Quilted Water Resistant Shirt Jacket. Style Number: ... Learn More
Men's Canada Goose 'Hybridge™ Lite' Slim Fit Packable
A compressible hip-length vest is cut from rugged, abrasion-resistant Superderm 10D performance fabric, insulated with warm 800-fill power Hutterite white goose down, and outfitted with a storm flap and wrap-over brushed-tricot chin guard. The slim-fitting style features stretch Lycra armholes and Polartec Power Stretch Hardface side inserts for enhanced comfort ... Learn More
Men's Rodd & Gunn 'Leverett' Water Resistant Quilted
Premium down and feather fill insulates a rugged, water-resistant jacket designed with a detachable hood and adjustable cinch-cord hem for added protection in windy and severe weather conditions. Leather piping trims the collar, sleeves and pocket edges. Color(s): black, burgundy, navy. Brand: RODD AND GUNN. Style Name:Rodd & Gunn 'Leverett' Water Resistant Quilted Down ... Learn More


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DOWAGIAC, MI — An Indiana woman was arrested in Dowagiac Saturday after police found her in possession of a bag of suspected powder methamphetamine, Dowagiac police said in a press release.
The woman and a man were walking down Sheldon Street near King Street when she was approached by an officer. The woman turned away in order to avoid the officer, the press release said.
After talking with the woman, an officer found the bag of meth. The man was questioned and released. The woman, whose name was not released, was transported to Cass County Jail.
The case remains under investigation. Anyone with information about this incident is asked to call the Dowagiac Police Department at 269-782-9743.


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SPRINGFIELD – The Springfield police will be offering a free defensive training seminar for women who live or work in Springfield.
The three-session, hands-on class is planned for Oct. 17, Oct. 26 and Nov. 2. Each session will be from 5:30 - 8 p.m. at center court in the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.
It is offered at no charge and is open to the first 100 women who register. Preference will be given to women age 18 and older who live in or work in Springfield.
The sessions will be led by Springfield police officers who will teach basic self-defense, how to anticipate an attack and the best ways to stay safe.
It is a hands-on course and participants should were sweatpants and sneakers.The police department has offered the seminars in the past and had a strong turnout.
To sign up or for more information, people should contact either officer Richard Rodriguez or cadet Melissa Rodriguez in the office of Police Commissioner William Fitchet at (413) 787-6313.


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ALLEN PARK -- Before Detroit Lions second-round draft pick Darius Slay found a permanent home at cornerback, he was an all-state high school running back. The speedster, who ran a 4.36-second 40-yard dash at the NFL scouting combine, also served as a return man.
"Yeah, I returned kicks," Slay said. "I was the number one juco returner when I came out. I don't know why I didn't this year, but I'm looking forward to returning."
Slay met with Detroit special teams coach John Bonamego during a pre-draft visit with the team and discussed the possibility of handling punts and kicks.
The Lions finished 29th in kickoff returns and 22nd in punt returns last season and have shown no interest in bringing back return man Stefan Logan.
Unless Detroit makes another free agent acquisition, there will likely be an open competition for the job. Other possibilities on the roster include running backs Joique Bell and Reggie Bush and wide receivers Ryan Broyles and Devin Thomas.


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|BirdLife Species Champion
|Become a BirdLife Preventing Extinctions Programme Supporter
|For information about BirdLife Species Champions and Species Guardians visit the BirdLife Preventing Extinctions Programme.
This pigeon is listed as Endangered owing to a recent assessment of available habitat which indicated that its range and population, both of which are declining as a result of the continuing rapid reduction in the extent and quality of forest, were much smaller than previously thought.
Taxonomic source(s)
del Hoyo, J.; Collar, N. J.; Christie, D. A.; Elliott, A.; Fishpool, L. D. C. 2014. HBW and BirdLife International Illustrated Checklist of the Birds of the World. Barcelona, Spain and Cambridge UK: Lynx Edicions and BirdLife International.
47 cm. Large, montane pigeon. Light blue-grey head, neck and most of underparts, washed rufous on vent and undertail-coverts. Pinkish forehead, lower face and throat. Red orbital skin surrounded by blackish ring which extends into short post-ocular stripe. Bronzy-red hindneck and mantle, emerald-green lower back, rump and wings, bronzy-red inner wing-coverts edged. Blackish-green flight feathers and tail with pale grey central tail-band. Yellow iris, dark bill, reddish legs. Similar spp. Pink-bellied Imperial-pigeon D. poliocephala is smaller and shows prominent, dark breast-band. Voice Undocumented. Hints Look for flocks flying over the canopy early morning and late afternoon.
Collar, N. J.; Mallari, N. A. D.; Tabaranza, B. R. J. 1999. Threatened birds of the Philippines: the Haribon Foundation/BirdLife International Red Data Book. Bookmark, Makati City.
Further web sources of information
Detailed species accounts from the Threatened birds of Asia: the BirdLife International Red Data Book (BirdLife International 2001).
Explore HBW Alive for further information on this species
Search for photos and videos, and hear sounds of this species from the Internet Bird Collection
Text account compilers
Benstead, P., Bird, J., Lowen, J., Mahood, S., Taylor, J.
Allen, D.
IUCN Red List evaluators
Butchart, S., Symes, A.
Recommended citation
BirdLife International (2016) Species factsheet: Ducula mindorensis. Downloaded from http://www.birdlife.org on 24/10/2016. Recommended citation for factsheets for more than one species: BirdLife International (2016) IUCN Red List for birds. Downloaded from http://www.birdlife.org on 24/10/2016.
This information is based upon, and updates, the information published in BirdLife International (2000) Threatened birds of the world. Barcelona and Cambridge, UK: Lynx Edicions and BirdLife International, BirdLife International (2004) Threatened birds of the world 2004 CD-ROM and BirdLife International (2008) Threatened birds of the world 2008 CD-ROM. These sources provide the information for species accounts for the birds on the IUCN Red List.
To provide new information to update this factsheet or to correct any errors, please email BirdLife
To contribute to discussions on the evaluation of the IUCN Red List status of Globally Threatened Birds, please visit BirdLife's Globally Threatened Bird Forums.
|Key facts
|Current IUCN Red List category
|Columbidae (Pigeons, Doves)
|Species name author
|(Whitehead, 1896)
|Population size
|600-1700 mature individuals
|Population trend
|Distribution size (breeding/resident)
|1,200 km2
|Country endemic?
|Links to further information
|- Additional Information on this species


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The Lehigh County Coroner is searching for the next of kin of a man who died Friday.
Thomas Dalpezzo, 58, of North Whitehall Township, died Friday afternoon at Lehigh Valley Hospital in Salisbury Towsnhip.
The coroner is searching for next of kin. Anyone with family information is asked to call the coroner at 610-782-3426.
The coroner says an autopsy is being performed Saturday to determine the exact cause of death.


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Do you love the tradional colors and prints of French fabrics? We have a range of textiles that include round and rectangular tablecloth as well as kitchen accessories. The traditional patterns that you will find in Provence France are used here. Have a truly authentic experience when you use these French fabrics in your own home.Our kitchen accessories come packaged ready for giving as gifts, but are equally nice to have for yourself. Purchase any of our French fabric products and experience a bit of Provence tradition everyday!


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And if you think it started at the time Eisenhower High School graduates Stefanie Santo and her younger brother Andrew enrolled at Penn State University, dig deeper.
Article Photos
Photos by Mitchell Wilston
Their father, Tom, has been an avid Penn State fan since 1970 when Warren Area High School's own Ed O'Neill played linebacker for Joe Paterno. The Santo family has been football season ticket holders since 1983.
"The kids have been going to football and basketball games (at Penn State) since they were two years old," said Tom. "We actually do bleed Blue and White."
Dig even deeper.
Tom's father and Stef's and Andrew's grandfather, Ralph J. Santo, received his master's degree from Penn State University over 60 years ago.
Tom's wife, Molly, is a Purdue grad, but quickly became a Penn Stater. "My wife's side has been season ticket holders since the 1940's," said Tom.
"Penn State has a huge impact on our family, and our lives in general," he said. "There have been 29 family members attend Penn State over the years."
But have any of them held a Big Ten championship trophy?
Penn State senior Stefanie Santo has.
"I always wanted to come here, but never knew what I wanted to do when I was here," she said.
Santo is a head team manager for Penn State University's Division I women's basketball program - the two-time defending regular-season Big Ten champion Lady Lions basketball program.
Among other tasks through the university athletic department. She also assists the athletic director and event managers in other sports at Penn State. She worked at the NCAA men's volleyball national championships, for example.
She met Penn State men's volleyball player Matt Anderson at the event, and later saw him on TV, playing for Team USA at the Olympics.
I mean, are you kidding me? She might fly in a private jet as often as the President of the U.S.
Stefanie is swimming with dolphins as we speak, having traveled with the Lady Lions to the Bahamas this weekend for the Junkanoo Jam.
"I've been busy from October to March," said Stefanie, a senior who has accepted a finance position starting in June with Dick's Sporting Goods - a job offer she says was helped by the organizational skills she learned as a Penn State women's hoops manager.
Through all the "on the floor" responsibilities, Santo is juggling a lot in addition to being a student.
Setting up the gym, chairs, Gatorade, towels, bringing out warm-up equipment like stretch cords, helping with practice drills... First and foremost, with a staff of eight to 10, whatever the coaches need.
"After the first few practices, I'd call my dad afterward," said Stefanie, "and tell him a lot of the stuff (her former high school coach, Dave Allenson) was teaching us (at Eisenhower) is stuff they were doing at the D-I school.
"How well they were doing it, I think it's showed me how difficult it really is," she said. "The thing that was shocking is how hard these girls go at practice, how much time they spend on (perfecting their skills in) basketball."
Then there's Andrew, a team manager for the Penn State University Division I men's basketball program.
"When it actually started, I don't think I understood what I was getting into," said Andrew, a junior electrical engineering major, and video connoisseur for the men's basketball team. "I actually knew nothing about video, so there was a lot of trial and error.
"I didn't realize how important film was," he said, "when you can actually show a player, rather than just tell him."
What he does is do the coaches' dirty work.
"Let's say they want to see all the ball screens from (6-10 Michigan State senior center) Adreian Payne, for example," said Andrew.
He finds them on tape for them.
Not just Penn State games; "Anybody on TV, they can pick it up," said Tom. "When (a coach) says, give me all the post-up moves of someone from Purdue, they can go and pull that and chop it up."
Spending 20 to 25 hours on a given week in the film room, or taping games, "My time management is probably as good as anyone you've ever met," said Andrew.
"I always knew coming to Penn State I wanted to be involved in a sport," said Andrew.
What he got instead was an experience like no other.
Forget his trip to Puerto Rico with the team last Thanksgiving, or to New York City this weekend; "It actually helps a lot during (job) interviews," he said.
"I've learned such great skills, like managing my time during basketball," said Stefanie. "They call it March Madness, and it's a play on words, but after last year I totally understand how crazy it is.
"My dad always pushed us, but because he did is the reason I'm where I'm at now," said Stefanie. "Trips across the country, a little bit of a scholarship, some gear, playing basketball against team managers from other schools; those are the perks. But I feel like the biggest thing is being part of the team, the energy when we are playing a big game. I can't recreate those moments ever again.
"I'm really grateful for my parents, who always wanted the best for us," she said. "Andrew and I have wanted to come to Penn State our whole lives, and now we're getting a better experience than I could have ever imagined."
No wonder dad and mom visit every weekend.
"I couldn't be prouder of all the kids," said Tom. "The places they have gone and the people they have met will impact them for the rest of their entire lives. Penn State athletics and basketball in particular have been incredible to both kids. The benefits can't even begin to be measured. They have experienced things that most people just dream about.
"Hopefully Kari will be following in her siblings' footsteps in Happy Valley next year!"


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A dog in Stroudsburg, Monroe County is set to make his big television debut next month.
The adorable, yet, mischievous yellow lab will be featured for one of his Houdini-like tricks.
"He is a bad dog," said Susie Forrester, owner of the yellow lab named Leo.
Leo was about two years old when he developed his claim-to-fame trick: raiding Forrester's refrigerator.
"When no one's around and he has his wits about him, he'll go into the refrigerator and freezer," Forrester said.
One day, Forrester and her friends decided to catch Leo in the act. They put a camera inside and outside of the refrigerator.
"The video shows him watching me leave, and using his teeth and his nose," Forrester said.
Forrester tried to stop Leo from his food-frenzy, but the determined pup just always seems to find a way around it.
"I've taken the handles off the freezer and refrigerator. He's broken through baby locks. You name it," Forrester said.
Two years after Forrester uploaded the video online, Animal Planet came calling.
"They said 'we're going to run it on 'Bad Dog.' I wish it was like hero dog or best dog in the world," Forrester said laughing.
Leo makes his debut August 9.
"He's the biggest thing out of Stroudsburg since who knows," Forrester said.


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Report claims Amaltal Columbia's mayday ignored
Thursday 13 Sep 2012 10:49 a.m.
A New Zealand fishing company denies one of its ships failed in its duty to go to the aid of a burning trawler off the Canterbury coast.
A fire broke out in the fishmeal hold of the 64-metre Amaltal Columbia, with 43 people on board, about 5:20am on Wednesday and an hour later a mayday call was issued.
The crew, including two government observers, were forced to abandon ship shortly after 8am, and two other trawlers in the area, the Ivan Golubets and the San Discovery went to its aid, retrieving the crew from lifeboats.
But Radio New Zealand reported on Thursday that another ship in the area, the Korean-registered Pacinui, chartered by Sanford, was alleged to have headed away from the drama.
Under international maritime law a ship's master is obliged to render assistance to those in distress.
Sanford managing director Eric Barratt told the broadcaster because other vessels had gone to help the Talley's-owned vessel, including its own San Discovery which was closer to the incident, the Pacinui was not required.
He said it went to Timaru.
The Ivan Golubets and San Discovery ferried the uninjured crew to Lyttelton. They were due to fly to Nelson on Thursday.
The San Discovery towed the Amaltal Columbia, which had lost power and steering, to the port, arriving about 12:30am on Thursday.
The blaze in the hold was put out by firefighters around 5am.
Talley's Nelson CEO Tony Hazlett said the vessel was three weeks into a 45-day trip and hoped the ship, and much of its catch could be salvaged.
The Transport Accident Investigation Commission (TAIC) has launched an inquiry into the fire.
It will begin a physical examination of the vessel on Thursday.
An investigator will also travel to Nelson to interview company officials and crew members.
The inquiry will take up to a year to complete.