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Although Chips, a tiny bobcat kitten, may have looked helpless when she was rescued by a Six Rivers National Mad River Ranger District hand crew back in August, volunteers at the Sierra Wildlife Rescue in Placerville are saying it's time for Chips to grow up.
The orphaned bobcat was only a few weeks old when she attracted national attention after the local fire crew found her with burned paws and infected eyes while battling a 75,000-acre fire in the Plumas National Forest. They named her Chips, after the wildfire.
The firefighters who found Chips wandering in circles on Aug. 25 noticed right away that she was affectionate. In a previous interview with the Times-Standard, Mad River Hand Crew Superintendent Tad Hair said he trailed the kitten through the dust for a few minutes before he decided to intervene. He could tell something was wrong. Alone, seemingly dazed and with second-degree burns on her paws, the kitten whimpered as Hair approached.
"I thought at first she was blind," Hair said. "Her eyes were full of soot and pus. I knew a mama cat would never have let that happen if she was around. At that point, I decided I had to do something."
The crew tried to locate a female bobcat searching for its baby, but had no luck and ended up taking the kitten to the Lake Tahoe Care Center where she was placed with another abandoned bobcat, Sierra. The male bobcat, found orphaned in Lassen County, is estimated to be about one week older than Chips. Last month, both bobcats were transferred to the Placerville rescue, where they are in the care of volunteer Jill Tripoli, who was already rehabbing another bobcat kitten, Tuffy.
Nan Powers, media representative and rehabber for the rescue, said the bobcat kittens are excepted to be released into the wild sometime in the spring. In the meantime, Powers said, the volunteers are working to toughen Chips up.
"She is the more social of the three," Powers said. "But it isn't a good thing for her to like humans. If a wild animal approaches a human, they would assume something was wrong with the animal, and that could be dangerous."
Tripoli agreed.
"If you have a friendly bobcat in the wild, that's not going to work," said Tripoli, who squirts the kitten with a water bottle if she tries cuddling up to her.
As part of her training regimen, Chips has also had to start chasing down her own mice and rabbits for meals and stop sleeping on a soft bed like the one she'd grown accustomed to while she was receiving medical treatment.
Tuffy and Sierra -- who hiss and bare their claws at humans -- are also teaching Chips a thing or two, Powers said.
"It's sort of a 'tough love' approach," she said. "You don't want these guys to like you. The whole point is to get them 'wild up' and send them back into the wild. We want them healthy and ready to go out and fend for themselves."
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Kaci Poor can be reached at 441-0504 or firstname.lastname@example.com


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Karen Garloch found something she really didn't expect on her first "free" wellness visit with her doctor: a bill.
"It happened to me in 2012 when I saw my family doctor for an every-other-year checkup," she writes in The Charlotte Observer. "My insurance paid $256, the total for the preventive exam. But the 'explanation of benefits' showed that I also owed $74.60, my share of the $113 bill for an 'office visit' -- on the same day, in the same time slot."
What the heck? After all, beginning in 2011, the Affordable Care Act required health insurance companies to offer free annual wellness visits to some 54 million Americans with private health plans. Obamacare also provides a free annual checkup to 32.5 million seniors on Medicare.
1 office visit, but 2 billings
When Garloch inquired about the unexpected bill, she learned that her warm-fuzzy wellness visit should have come with a caveat.
"(My doctor) explained the second charge resulted from our talk about my elevated cholesterol level, which had been diagnosed previously. Because he documented that discussion and marked the billing code for evaluation and management of a cholesterol diagnosis, I was billed for the second visit," she writes. "I have learned since that it's not unusual to get this extra charge with a preventive exam."
Garloch says several factors may have helped generate that additional bill.
Just following the rules?
For example, some insurers have tightened up what constitutes a gratis wellness visit to more closely adhere to the Affordable Care Act. Physicians are under increased pressure to document each service they provide, partly because of new Medicare reimbursement criteria. And the growing number of high-deductible health plans may prompt patients to save up their health questions for their free annual exam to avoid paying extra for separate visits.
"Because this is confusing to patients, some doctors have begun sending notices in advance, letting patients know they could be charged extra if they bring up questions that aren't considered part of a preventive exam," she says.
Consider yourself warned.
Do you think it's fair that you could be billed for a "free" exam?
Follow me on Twitter: @omnisaurus.
Get more news, money-saving tips and expert advice by signing up for a free Bankrate newsletter.

subset: commoncrawl


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Civil rights groups reacted with disappointment to the not guilty verdict in the George Zimmerman murder trial.
After the outcome became known late Saturday, the NAACP Legal Defense Fund said it would push for the Department of Justice to bring civil rights charges against Zimmerman, who was accused in the fatal shooting of 17-year-old black youth Trayvon Martin.
Speaking to NPR's Weekend Edition Sunday, NAACP President and CEO Benjamin Jealous compared the Zimmerman trial to the one six decades ago of two white men who were acquitted for the kidnapping and murder of Emmett Till, a black teen in Mississippi.
"We hoped that the verdict this time would reflect the gravity of what happened," he told WESUN host Rachel Martin. "The reality is that if Mr. Zimmerman had done what the police had asked and stayed in his vehicle, Mr. Martin would still be with his family today."
Jealous, who leads the country's oldest civil rights organization, acknowledged however that the verdict did not necessarily mean the jury thought Zimmerman's actions were right, only that there was reasonable doubt as to his guilt.
"It does not actually mean that Mr. Zimmerman should have killed Mr. Martin, it doesn't mean that Mr. Zimmerman was right to get out of his car, it doesn't mean that he was right to intentionally purchase a firearm with no safety," he said. "So, it's important that we keep this in perspective."
Several other civil rights groups voiced similar reactions to the verdict, seen by many as a bellwether for judicial equity and race relations.
Barbara Arnwine, president and executive director of the Lawyers' Committee for Civil Rights Under Law, called the verdict "a tragic miscarriage of justice."
"While there is no doubt that this was a difficult case for the jury, the outcome is deeply disappointing," Arnwine said in a statement. "Yet, there is still the potential for justice to be served through a civil suit brought about by Trayvon Martin's surviving family members, and also through civil rights charges being brought against Mr. Zimmerman by the Department of Justice."
ColorofChange.org, which describes itself as the "nation's largest online civil rights organization" issued the following statement from its executive director, Rashad Robinson:
"This is another tragedy for Black families everywhere, and another instance of how law enforcement and our criminal justice system routinely fail Black people and communities," Robinson said.
"In a media environment that continues to cast Black men and boys as thugs, it's not surprising that the tragic death of an innocent young man has become a character trial for Black people everywhere," he said.
And Richard Cohen, president and CEO of the Southern Poverty Law Center, issued this statement:
"Trayvon is dead, and Zimmerman is free. Can we respect the jury verdict and still conclude that Zimmerman got away with killing Trayvon? I think so, even if we buy Zimmerman's story that Trayvon attacked him at some point," Cohen said in a statement released to the media.
"The jury has spoken, and we can respect its conclusion that the state did not prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt. But we cannot fail to speak out about the tragedy that occurred in Sanford, Florida, on the night of February 26, 2012," he said.
Read original article
Civil Rights Groups Call Zimmerman Verdict A 'Miscarriage'
Recent headlines
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Skagway Assembly candidate ordered to pay $220 for incomplete financial disclosuresFor the second time in two years, a Skagway political figure has been ordered to pay a fine for incomplete financial disclosures. Assembly hopeful Dan Henry failed to disclose substantial debt on his candidate paperwork. He will still be able to run for office in the upcoming election.
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Howdy from Texas! Spring is in full bloom here and so should the health of our children. This April is national Autism Awareness month which gives us the perfect opportunity to educate the public about autism and issues within the autism community.
One of the ways we can support Autistic children is to focus on feeding them nourishing foods that are Gluten and Casein free. Evidence shows that this diet is often helpful in lessening the symptoms and behaviors of Autism, even associated speech problems. Unfortunately, gluten and dairy are in almost everything we eat, and trying to keep a child away from ice cream, sandwiches, and other snack foods is no walk in the park. We don't want them to miss out on childhood favorites. And you know what, we don't have to! All it takes is a little time and creativity in the kitchen. source
- Gluten Free Pasta (macaroni or rotini)
- Daiya shredded cheese (1/2 cup)
- 1 10 ounce can chickpeas
- 1 jar pimentos
- curry powder
- 1 tbsp Bob Red Mill Arrowroot Starch
- garlic- 1 to 2 tsp.
- sea salt and black pepper- to taste
- olive oil or other oil of choice (2 tbsp.)
- almond milk (unsweetened) – 1/4 to 1/2 cup
First, drain the chickpeas and dry them off. Coat them in 1 tbsp. oil and curry powder. Spread on a baking sheet and bake at 400F for about 15 minutes or until golden brown. Set aside. Then, cook pasta according to the directions. Drain the pasta and add the milk, cheese, oil, flour, and seasoning. Stir on low until cheese starts to melt. Once it starts to melt, add in your chickpeas and pimentos until all the cheese is melted and coated onto the pasta and chickpeas.
Then……EAT and ENJOY in GOOD company. Goes best with family and friends!
Cheers to Good Health!
Lindsay Cotter


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You are here
Position Statement 26: Participant Protections in Psychiatric Research
Policy Position
Mental Health America (MHA) is dedicated to promoting mental health, preventing mental health and substance use disorders and achieving victory over mental illnesses and substance abuse and dependency through advocacy, education, research and service. One of MHA's goals is the development of a broad-based national research agenda that includes basic research, diagnostic and treatment research, services research and prevention research.
MHA strongly supports continued and expanded research into the causes, progression and treatment of the full range of mental health and substance use disorders. Research is necessary to enhance existing treatment and service methods and to discover and test safer, more effective, evidence-based interventions. 1 To accomplish this, the participation of human subjects is essential. Thus, a balance is needed to protect individuals with mental health and substance use conditions participating in such research. The federal regulations concerning the "Protection of Human Subjects" 2 strike a good balance in providing that protection.
When provided with accurate and complete information, people with mental health and substance use conditions can make thoughtful and informed decisions about participation in psychiatric research, adhere faithfully to research protocols, and provide valuable, randomized evidence to improve treatment. It is extremely challenging to provide information about research studies that is both complete and understandable to individuals without specialized medical training, but every effort should be made to do so. In all cases, a number of measures must be taken to ensure protection of the health, safety, and rights of participants. Such protective measures (described under Background) include ensuring:
- A thorough Institutional Review Board (IRB) assessment
- Access to an independent advisor
- Access to reasonably clear and complete information
- Informed consent
- The opportunity to create advance directives
- The right to withdraw from the study at any time
- Protection of confidentiality
- Receipt of new and updated information as the study proceeds; and
- Arrangements for post-study care.
Where there is a significant risk of acute psychotic episodes or other cognitive impairment, potential treatment issues should be raised during the consent process, and advance directives should be offered to assure that the treatment dialogue takes place prior to any loss of capacity.
Partnerships between mental health consumers and researchers are essential to continually improving our understanding and treatment of mental health and substance use disorders. MHA believes that the following measures are essential to protecting the health and rights of research participants, while also facilitating scientific advances:
Prior to implementation, proposed research projects must be reviewed by an Institutional Review Board (IRB) in accordance with federal regulations and Office of Human Research Protections (OHRP) guidance. 3
Access to an Independent Advisor
Each IRB must include at least one member who is not otherwise affiliated with the institution and who is not part of the immediate family of a person who is affiliated with the institution. OHRP guidance also makes provision for an independent advisor 4 (Ombudsman) to advise potential participants on the risks and benefits of participation in the proposed research project, as required. MHA believes that, before giving initial consent, participants should have access to an Ombudsman or other healthcare advisor upon request who is independent from the interests of the research project or institution and who will advocate for the safety of research participants. The Ombudsman should be approved by the IRB and should be sufficiently trained to be able to effectively advise research participants about the risks and benefits of the research. In addition, the Ombudsman should be available to advocate for research participants whenever their continued ability to provide informed consent is uncertain, or when there is a significant risk that continued participation could produce deleterious effects on a participant. This is particularly important if the participant is incarcerated or civilly committed. 5
Informed Consent
Persons with mental health conditions must give informed consent to participate in medical research. 6 MHA does not support enabling authorization by another person as a legal representative for the purpose of the initial consent to participate in medical research. Children who are capable of understanding their role in proposed research should be required to give their assent before parents can give consent to their participation. 7
Accessible Information
Steps should be taken to ensure that participants comprehend the information they receive not only before they agree to study participation, but throughout each phase of the study. All written and verbal information provided to a participant (or potential participant) must be linguistically appropriate, and written using language that is appropriate for the potential participants' reading level. Any necessary accommodations must be made for people with disabilities or with low literacy levels. (e.g., by providing information in sign language or Braille). 8
Advance Directives
MHA supports the use of advance directives concerning participation in medical research as a means of encouraging people with severe mental illness to participate in advancing the effectiveness of treatment. All research participants should have the right to provide advance directives for treatment or research prior to participation in the study, which are followed by the research staff. MHA supports the inclusion of advance directives as part of the informed consent process for all research studies. 9
Right to Withdraw at Any Time
All participants have the right to withdraw from a research study at any time without consequence. In those cases where abrupt discontinuation of treatment could harm the participant (e.g., sudden discontinuation of a medication), the research team must work with the participant to ensure that the withdrawal process is monitored and conducted as safely as possible, and that substitute treatment is provided.
All research participants have the right to confidentiality of their medical records, unless otherwise specified in the consent form.
Provision of New Information
All research participants must be informed of any new information that becomes available during the course of the study that might affect continued study participation (e.g., changes in the risk associated with the research). 10
Post-Study Care
All medical research designs should ensure continuity of care for participants following the conclusion of the research project. Participants should be followed for a minimum of six months post-research to ensure that they are medically stabilized and reconnected with essential services.
Effective Period
This policy was approved by the Mental Health America Board of Directors on June 9, 2012. It is reviewed as required by the Mental Health America Public Policy Committee.
Expiration: December 31, 2017
- See, generally, MHA Position Statement 12, Evidence-based Healthcare, http://www.nmha.org/go/position-statements/12
- 45 CFR, Part 46, http://ohsr.od.nih.gov/guidelines/45cfr46.html
- 45 CFR §46.116. For more details on the process necessary to obtain informed consent, please see "What should you ask before agreeing to participate in a research study?," prepared by Mental Health America in partnership with the National Institute of Mental Health, June 2001 http://www.mentalhealthamerica.net/go/information/mental-health-info/research-studies/what-should-yo...
- Assent means a child's affirmative agreement to participate in research. Mere failure to object should not, absent affirmative agreement, be construed as assent. 45 CFR §§46.401-46.409.
- Paul P. Christopher, M.D., Mary Ellen Foti, M.D., Kristen Roy-Bujnowski, M.A. and Paul S. Appelbaum, M.D. "Consent Form Readability and Educational Levels of Potential Participants in Mental Health Research," Psychiatric Services 58:227-232 (2007).
- See, generally, MHA Position Statement 23, Advance Directives, http://www.nmha.org/go/position-statements/23
- 45 CFR §46.116(b)(5)


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Note: This item is more than four years old. Please take the publication date into consideration for any date references.
Print – Plain Text – Permalink
News Release
Media Contact: TPWD News, email@example.com, 512-389-8030
Aug. 29, 2013
Texas Game Wardens Preparing for Labor Day Weekend
AUSTIN — All available Texas game wardens will be patrolling the state's public waters over the Labor Day weekend to make sure everyone who goes boating or fishing gets home safely.p>Game wardens will be particularly on the lookout during the holiday for boat operators who have had too much to drink. Boating while intoxicated provides the same penalties as DWI, and for those on the water, it is just as dangerous.
So far this year, TPWD game wardens have arrested 195 people statewide for BWI. In 2012, game wardens took 301 people to jail for operating a boat while drunk. During the Labor Day weekend last year, game wardens handled 6 BWI cases and investigated 9 boating accidents that resulted in 13 injuries and one fatality. In addition, two drownings were reported during the holiday period in 2012.
Statewide so far this year, 59 people have drowned in Texas public waters. For all of 2012, 88 drownings were reported.
When heading out to the water, don't drink if you are going to be operating a boat, wear your lifejacket even if you are a good swimmer and if on a personal watercraft, keep at least 50 feet away from other PWCs, vessels, the shore or any object such as a boat dock. .
Boating Safety Tips
- Wear a personal flotation device
- Avoid alcohol
- Be especially careful on personal watercrafts
- Children younger than 13 must wear a Coast Guard-approved life jacket while underway
- Take a boater education class
- Don't overload your boat
- Operate at a safe speed
- Have a passenger serving as a lookout in addition to the operator
- In light of the ongoing drought, watch out for low water areas or submerged objects
- Carry extra PFDs in both adult and child sizes
- PWC operators and passengers must wear a life jacket
- Maintain a 50-foot distance from other PWCs, vessels, persons, shore, stationary platform or other objects unless operating at idle speed
Publication — Permission is granted to publish, in whole or in part, any news releases on this page.
Print — A print-friendly version of the news release shows only the release with font sizes set to the browser default.
Plain Text — Plain text versions of TPWD news releases are provided for copying and pasting into editing software.
To copy text into an editing software:
- Click a Plain Text link to display the plain text page in your browser.
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- Copy.
- Paste in a document in your editing program.
Permalink — This is a direct link to the news release, omitting the navigation context from the URI.
English/Spanish — News releases posted in both English and Spanish have one of these links.
If you have any suggestions for improving these pages, send an e-mail to email@example.com and mention Plain Text Pages.
(5.4.16 i)


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The Massillon Public Library is delighted to present this collection of research databases. Many of these resources are provided through the Ohio Public Library Information Network (OPLIN) and are an example of your tax dollars at work for you!
All of the databases included on these pages can be accessed directly from the library's public computers. To make an appointment to use the research databases with staff assistance, contact the Reference Department at 330-832-9831, ext. 312.
Most of the databases can also be accessed from computers outside of the library with any Ohio public library card. A few of the databases can be only accessed from other computers with a card from the Massillon Public Library.
ALLDATA Online, Ancestry Library, GrantSelect and Heritage Quest are only accessible inside the library. (Here's why.)
Browse through the alphabetical list of all the databases, select a topic category from the menu options on the left side of your screen, or enter search terms in the box at the bottom of this page to begin your research.
Questions about database access may be answered on the Frequently Asked Questions page.


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Goalie Phipps Makes 21 Saves to Help Bayhawks Snap Two-Game Losing Streak
ANNAPOLIS, MD – Midfielder
Dan Hardy scored three goals while fellow midfielder
Steven Brooks recorded four points to lead the Chesapeake Bayhawks to a 13-11 victory over the Rochester Rattlers on Saturday night before a crowd of 8,410 at Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium.
It was the first hat trick of the season for Hardy, who had scored just two goals in four previous games. Brooks, who had netted only three goals in five games, also broke out of a season-long slump.
"I thought the Brooks, Hardy, (Justin) Smith midfield line was tremendous tonight," Chesapeake head coach
Brendan Kelly said. "It was good to see Brooks and Hardy have big games. We changed the offense a bit to give those guys more room to operate and they really responded."
Rookie goalie
Brian Phipps turned in another strong performance by stopping 21 shots for Chesapeake (4-3), which snapped a two-game losing streak. It was second straight game that Phipps had established a career-high for saves. The former University of Maryland standout, who had 17 saves last Saturday against Boston, was named Bud Light Most Valuable Player of the game.
"Phipps was outstanding once again. That's why he is an all-star," Kelly said. "Phipps is playing with a lot of confidence in the cage and the defense is doing a good job of making teams take bad shots."
Ben Rubeor totaled two goals and two assists for the Bayhawks, who never trailed in the contest. Faceoff specialist
Alex Smith had a dominant outing, winning 16 of 26 draws to help the Bayhawks control possession.
Brooks was instrumental in helping Chesapeake get off to a strong start, assisting
Matt Abbott on a transition goal then firing in a 2-pointer off a left-handed crank shot as the host team jumped out to a 5-1 lead.
"The coaches told me to keep shooting and eventually the ball would start going into the back of the net," Brooks said. "I worked hard all week on my shooting. It was just a matter of getting back to the proper fundamentals."
Brooks scored off another lefty laser during a 3-0 run that gave Chesapeake a commanding 8-3 lead at the 11:33 minute mark of the second quarter. That was one of two times during the game when the Bayhawks led by five goals – the second coming after an unassisted goal by Hardy made it 12-7 with 5:02 left in the third quarter.
To its credit, Rochester never folded and back-to-back goals by rookie midfielder
Jovan Miller got the deficit to two goals with just under two minutes remaining in the game, but the Chesapeake defense shut the door the rest of the way. Phipps sealed the game by stuffing a point-blank shot by All-MLL attackman
Ned Crotty.
Danny Glading had a goal and two assists for Chesapeake, which beat Rochester 35-26 on ground balls. Abbott contributed a goal and an assist for the Bayhawks, who will enter the Major League Lacrosse All-Star break tied for third place with Hamilton.
Miller and attackman
Jordan McBride scored three goals apiece for winless Rochester (0-7), which was playing its first game under new head coach
Tim Soudan. Crotty, the Rattlers' leading scorer with 26 points, was limited to just two assists by Bayhawks' defenseman Joe Cinosky.
"It was a great team effort tonight. We got scoring from a lot of different people and I thought the defense was rock-solid," said Kelly, who held a team meeting last week after watching his squad lose three out of of four games.
"We talked about committing to each other and committing to the team," said Kelly, who had t-shirts printed with the words "All In."
Chesapeake, which has a league-high 10 players nominated to the MLL All-Star teams, will return to action on July 16 at Hamilton.
2011 Home Schedule
May 14th vs. Rochester Rattlers W (14-10)
June 25th vs. Boston Cannons L (17-10)
July 2nd vs. Rochester Rattlers 7:30 PM
July 23rd vs. Long Island Lizards 7:00 PM
July 30th vs. Hamilton Nationals 7:00 PM
August 13th vs. Denver Outlaws 7:00 PM
August 27th MLL Semifinals 12:00 PM & 3:00 PM
August 28th MLL Championship 3:00 PM
Bayhawks season tickets can be purchased online at
www.thebayhawks.comor over the phone by calling the box office 866-99-HAWKS (42957). Reserve your seat today and see the 2010 MLL Champions battle to defend their title at Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium this summer.


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Showalter wants to keep Schoop versatile
BOSTON -- Jonathan Schoop started at second base on Sunday night, with manager Buck Showalter --despite saying previously he didn't want to move the rookie around -- wanting to make sure Schoop wasn't too far removed from across the diamond.
"When Manny [Machado] comes back, I want to keep all our options open," Showalter said. "[Schoop's] fine anyplace. I think it's good for him to stay connected to both places. Because you don't know how Manny is going to do, he may have a setback tomorrow, you never know what's going to happen. So, I want to keep all our options open at second, too. I think that's where [Schoop] may end up. Who knows?"
Machado's pending arrival will complicate things for the current setup of Schoop, Steve Lombardozzi and Ryan Flaherty, who all have Minor League options and could be sent down if needed.
"I do think about it. In quiet moments, private moments. What would you do if it's today?" Showalter said. "But it's not. There's a lot of things that could happen between now and then that might make it an easier decision. I hope it doesn't. I hope it's a real tough one."
Brittany Ghiroli is a reporter for MLB.com. Read her blog, Britt's Bird Watch, and follow her on Facebook and Twitter @britt_ghiroli. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.


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At Loyola, higher education is as much physical and spiritual as it is intellectual. It's about cura personalis—or care of the whole person. Through sports, recreation, socializing, service, and worship (however you define it), you'll have plenty of chances to expand all your muscles — especially your heart — in proper proportion to your mind.
That's what Loyola students do. They work hard. They play hard. They live life with spirit, with thought, with passion—and with action.


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Red Sox Announce Roster Moves
BOSTON, MA-The Boston Red Sox today announced the following roster moves:
- Right-handed pitcher Joe Kelly was added to the active major league roster. To make room for him on the 25-man roster, right-handed pitcher Anthony Ranaudo was optioned to Triple-A Pawtucket following last night's game.
- Catcher David Ross was placed on the 15-day disabled list with right plantar fasciitis. To fill his spot on the 25-man roster, catcher Dan Butler was recalled from Pawtucket.
Kelly (wearing no. 56) and Butler (wearing No. 61) will be active for today's game against the New York Yankees at Fenway Park beginning at 4:05 p.m.
Executive Vice President/General Manager Ben Cherington made the announcements.
For Butler, 27, this is his first career major league stint. The catcher has spent all of 2014 with Pawtucket, appearing in 76 games and hitting .227 (59-for-260) with 17 doubles, four homers, 28 RBI, and 30 runs scored. He has thrown out 27 percent of attempted base stealers from behind the plate (13 of 48). Last season, he was named the PawSox' team MVP in his first full year at Triple-A after recording a career-high 14 home runs in 84 games. In 490 games over six minor league seasons in the Red Sox system, Butler has hit .254 (421-for-1656) with 113 doubles, six triples, 47 home runs, and 239 RBI, and he has thrown out 166 of 530 attempted base stealers (31%). The Red Sox signed the Phoenix, AZ native as a non-drafted free agent on July 28, 2009 out of the University of Arizona.
Kelly, 26, was acquired from the St. Louis Cardinals on Thursday along with outfielder/first baseman Allen Craig in exchange for right-handed pitcher John Lackey, minor league left-handed pitcher Corey Littrell, and cash considerations. He has gone 2-2 with a 4.37 ERA (17 ER/35.0 IP) in seven starts for St. Louis this season. For his big league career, the Anaheim, CA native is 17-14 with a 3.25 ERA (96 ER/266.0 IP) in 68 games, including 15-11 with a 3.25 ERA (77 ER/213.1) in 38 starts. He was a third-round selection (98th overall) of the Cardinals in the 2009 June Draft.
Ranaudo, 24, started and earned the win in his major league debut yesterday against the Yankees. He held the Yankees to two runs in 6.0 innings, allowing four hits and four walks while striking out two. The native of Freehold, NJ returns to Pawtucket, where he is 12-4 with a 2.41 ERA and a .205 opponent batting average in 21 starts. In 119.1 innings with the PawSox, he has fanned 99 batters compared to just 88 hits and 49 walks allowed. Signed as a supplemental round selection in the 2010 June Draft, he is 33-18 with a 3.44 ERA (162 ER/424.0 IP) and 370 strikeouts in 81 career minor league outings, including 80 starts.
Ross, 37, left last night's game due to injury after the sixth inning. In 40 games for the Red Sox this year, he is 24-for-125 (.192), with 12 of his hits going for extra bases (6 2B, 6 HR), and 12 RBI. Defensively, he has thrown out eight base-stealers in 35 attempts (23%). In 13 big league seasons with the Dodgers (2002-04), Pirates (2005), Padres (2005), Reds (2006-08), Braves (2009-12), and Red Sox (2008, 2013-14), Ross has hit .234 (451-for-1,928) with 100 doubles, five triples, 94 home runs, 270 RBI, 232 walks, and 220 runs scored over 734 games.


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Ryan, Ackley see results in returns from injury
PEORIA, Ariz. -- Brendan Ryan is known more for his glove, but the Mariners shortstop ripped a home run in his first at-bat this spring in Monday's 9-8 victory against the Angels. Ryan was joined by second baseman Dustin Ackley, who tripled in the fifth inning in his first Cactus League game, as both players returned from offseason surgeries.
Ryan hit into a double play on a checked-swing comebacker to the mound in his second at-bat before being replaced in the sixth inning.
"I saw both sides of the spectrum. About as good as it gets to as bad as it gets. Right back to Earth," Ryan said with a smile.
But the veteran shortstop has been pleased with his plate approach early this spring as he's working to simplify his swing and get back to being a better contact hitter after posting a .194 average last year.
"I'm just trying to get back to that gritty, stick-your-nose in there and grind out every at-bat, the [David] Eckstein-type approach," he said.
That would be fine with manager Eric Wedge, who isn't looking for home runs from his shortstop.
"I'd be happy with hard contact on a consistent basis from Brendan," Wedge said. "But it's good to see him get off to a good start. You just have to make sure he continues to work and understand what he needs to do to give himself the best chance up there over a period of time. His [batting practice] has been better, and it's nice to see him get some results here early."
It's the same story for Ackley, who is looking to bounce back from a .226 average last season at second base. Though his ankle is still a little tender as he returns from surgery to remove bone spurs, he drove a ball deep to the opposite field for his triple.
"That's Arizona," Ackley said after his deep drive carried farther than expected. "But it's nice to see the ball travel like that. I'll take it as a positive on Day 1. I squared it up pretty good. It was 3-1, and I was looking fastball and got one and put the barrel on it and good things happened."


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Malaysian regulators find 'issues' in AirAsia audit
KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia - Top budget airline AirAsia has had its right-to-fly extended by 6 months rather than the standard two years after an audit by Malaysian regulators found "some issues," an official said Friday.
The government official said the department of civil aviation had decided to extend the low-cost carrier's air operator's certificate until March 31 next year, at which point it will need to reapply.
The certificates, which allow carriers to use aircraft for commercial purposes, are usually granted for two years.
"The department already audited AirAsia, and they only approved 6 months for AirAsia," the official told AFP.
"AirAsia needs to apply again for renewal... next year," he added.
The official said the carrier, Asia's largest low-cost carrier by fleet size, faced "some issues... that have been found" but did not elaborate further.
Local daily SunBiz reported on Friday, quoting sources, that AirAsia had failed to meet regulatory standards.
The daily said an audit showed "shortcomings in AirAsia's flight operations procedures and practices, including flawed communications between flight operations and pilots, an outdated manual and flight operations not in keeping with the manual."
SunBiz also reported that AirAsia's head of flight operations had been removed from the post and replaced.
AirAsia did not immediately return requests for comment.
An aviation analyst told AFP he could not verify the report but said if it was true AirAsia would do "whatever it takes" to get another certificate next year.
"I think this will just be a warning... They have a very clean track record" in terms of safety, he added.
Rapidly expanding AirAsia has become one of the airline industry's biggest success stories, rivaling national carrier Malaysia Airlines, which has been struggling to get out of the red.
Head Tony Fernandes acquired the then-failing airline a decade ago. He has set up subsidiary budget carriers in Indonesia, the Philippines, Thailand and Japan.
The discount carrier has a fleet of 112 A320s and is expecting 266 more aircraft to be delivered up to 2026.
The airline, one of the biggest customers for European aircraft maker Airbus, has said it is in discussions to buy an additional 100 aircraft.
AirAsia's shares closed down 0.7% at 2.83 ringgit Friday. - Agence France-Presse


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To apply for your first Texas ID card, you must do the following:
Individuals who hold a valid, unexpired ID card from another U.S. state, U.S. territory or foreign country, do not need to replace it with a Texas ID card until it expires. To apply for a Texas ID card, an individual must meet all of the above requirements.
Some disabled veterans may qualify for a fee exemption on their driver license or ID card. More information about this service, including qualification requirements, is available on the Veteran Services page.


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Tofu-Salad Sandwiches
Serving Size: 4
Total Time:
1. Wrap the drained tofu in paper towels and very gently press out some of the excess water.
2. In a medium bowl, using a pastry blender or a fork, finely chop the tofu. Add the mayonnaise, snipped chives, chopped celery, Dijon mustard and turmeric and mix gently. Season the tofu salad with salt and pepper.
3. Spoon the tofu salad onto 4 slices of whole wheat toast, top with the sprouts, close the sandwiches and serve.


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Photo Gallery: Romantic Rooms
Get ideas for an at-home retreat.
Photo Gallery: Romantic Rooms
Experiment with antique furniture in your bathroom.
For a truly luxe touch, install a towel warmer and hang monogrammed towels atop. A dramatic bathtub faucet and antique wood storage brings an elegant look into this principal bathroom.
Create a cosy spot for tea and coffee in your bedroom using a pair of armchairs and an accent table.
In this pale blue principal bedroom, an antique French bed and leggy bedside tables exude dignity and refinement. The grey-blue linen armchairs and chandelier complement the look.
Use pieces of salvaged iron as a headboard and bed crown.
With its brilliant turquoise patina, verdigris is as beautiful and instantly recognizable as shiny copper (its untarnished state). Contrasted with both light and dark purple fabrics and touches of white, it truly pops. Amp up hits of true verdigris by painting out select pieces, like a dresser or side table, in a complementary cool green hue.
Find more romantic rooms in our gallery.
Create the perfect ambience in your home with invigorating scents and soft lighting.
Black napkins folded neatly into rectangles are easy to do and elegantly understated. Black bowls and geometric patterned saucers create a sharp setting.
See more table setting photos in our Dining Design section, or browse our photo gallery of holiday table settings for more ideas.
For a dramatic, saturated look, paint your trim, walls and mantel in the same deep plum-skin purple.
Choose furniture in similarly dark shades, like these two-toned velvet armchairs, inky side table and plum-laced area rug. Muted golds and smoky glass accessories reference the warmer colours of a plum's flesh.
Soften a space with a ceiling-mounted canopy.
Timeless Louis XV-style chairs are painted white and upholstered in a fun mauve hue. Modern bird print fabrics in the same tone pull together the new-yet-old look.
Find more new traditional decorating ideas in our photo gallery.
Layer pillows on a banquette or settee in a kitchen's dining area for an inviting brunch spot.
This DIY artistic look is perfect for romantics. Dip a spoon into fabric paint and, holding it a few inches above the fabric, begin "writing" by letting the paint drizzle onto the fabric. Keep the spoon moving in a fluid motion, as this will produce a script that's more artistic than tidy. Reuse wine and pop bottles to serve water. A quirky handwritten label adds a quaint spin. On clean, dry bottles, draw text using a small, rounded paintbrush and glass paint. Borrow a little lingo from wineries to keep it tongue-in-cheek: "Flat MMXI" is an enticing alternative to "Tap Water."
Find more romantic rooms in our photo gallery.
For a sweet Valentine's Day, use fabric paint to write a love letter on a length of burlap cut to fit as a tablecloth or runner.
Traditional elements combine in this cosy space for reading or entertaining. Light drapes contrast perfectly against chocolate walls. (Dark, rich paint tones create an antiquated appearance.) Skirted furniture — a classic throwback — ceiling millwork, crystal accents and tufting on the sofa complete the look.
Learn more traditional-style tips in our Traditional & Formal Interiors photo gallery.


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Menlo Park voters Tuesday night passed a ballot measure that raises the city's 10 percent hotel tax by 2 percent.
According to the San Mateo County Elections Office, 73.6 percent of voters approved Measure K.
Mayor Kirsten Keith said the measure is expected to generate about $600,000 in additional annual revenue for the city. That money will help reduce a $1.2 million loss Menlo Park sustained after the state last year decided to divert redevelopment funds from cities to schools and other entities.
In asking voters to approve the higher hotel tax, the city council pointed out that neighboring cities such as Redwood City and Palo Alto already charge 12 percent.
"It's no different from what other surrounding communities are doing," Keith said. "It's a market correction, and I think voters understood that."
The council previously considered seeking a 2 percent increase two years ago but backed off after hotels opposed the idea. The city reached out to the hotels earlier this year before putting Measure K on the ballot and found they were more receptive this time due to the improving economy, Keith said.
Email Bonnie Eslinger at email@example.com.


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Two of the Western Conference's best teams are in action tonight against Eastern Conference opponents. One game figures to be tight; the other could be a blowout.
Here's a look at Saturday's games in the NBA:
San Antonio Spurs (31-11) at Atlanta Hawks (22-17), 7 p.m. ET
Already struggling to win on the road, the Spurs embark on a trip without Manu Ginobili.
Ginobili is expected to miss another five to 10 days because of a strained left hamstring and likely won't be around to help his team try to improve on a 2-7 record in its last nine road games.
— Must-see galleries: NBA cheerleaders | Player wives and girlfriends
The Spurs might have a better chance to add to their recent dominance over the Hawks if Al Horford and Lou Williams have to sit out. Horford missed Friday's 94-89 loss in Brooklyn because of a sore hamstring and calf, and Williams had to leave in the second quarter after spraining his right knee.
Williams, who is third on the team in scoring at 14.1 per game, was expected to have additional tests.
Sacramento Kings (15-25) at Charlotte Bobcats (10-29), 7 p.m. ET
Kemba Walker was vital to the Bobcats ending a losing streak in their last game. Another strong performance against the Kings would go a long way in helping the Bobcats avoid matching the longest home skid in team history.
Golden State Warriors (23-15) at New Orleans Hornets (13-26), 8 p.m. ET
The Warriors are hoping to have Stephen Curry back as they try to avoid falling further back in the Pacific Division race. The Hornets have one of the worst records in the Western Conference, so coach Monty Williams isn't celebrating their recent success.
Memphis Grizzlies (25-13) at Chicago Bulls (23-15), 8 p.m. ET
The Grizzlies got the best of the Bulls in a low-scoring game last month. Points could be even harder to come by this time around if Zach Randolph and Luol Deng can't play.
Houston Rockets (21-20) vs. Minnesota Timberwolves (16-20), 8 p.m. ET
Struggling through their second lengthy stretch without injured star Kevin Love, the Timberwolves find themselves on the verge of their longest losing streak of the season. Things aren't about to get any easier with Nikola Pekovic sidelined for at least a week. The injury-plagued T-wolves try to avoid a sixth consecutive loss against the Rockets, who are mired in a brutal skid.
Cleveland Cavaliers (10-31) at Utah Jazz (21-19), 9 p.m. ET
The Jazz will try to slow Kyrie Irving and the Cavaliers, who are wrapping up a five-game road trip.
Milwaukee Bucks (20-18) at Portland Trail Blazers (20-19), 10 p.m. ET
The Trail Blazers look to avoid a season-high fifth consecutive loss overall and third straight to the Bucks.
Washington Wizards (8-29) at Los Angeles Clippers (31-9), 10:30 p.m. ET
While they weren't satisfied with their latest performance, the Clippers won despite Chris Paul's absence. They would love to have their All-Star point guard back for their brief return home, a matchup with the suddenly surging Wizards.


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JOBSEEKERS can travel by rail for free under a new scheme.
Train operator Greater Anglia has launched Job Track to help the unemployed back into work.
People can claim up to six day return tickets within the Anglia network to help them get to and from interviews.
Once they find work participants in the scheme can get a free two-month season ticket to help them establish themselves in their new job and assist them in putting their finances on a firm footing.
- To find out more visit the Job Track website.


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Once upon a very, very long time ago, the interminable and terminally painful 9th season of American Idol kicked off without much fanfare. It then limped on through endless audition dates, forgettable Hollywood rounds and finally picked up a sluggish pace for the performance rounds that were about as fun as weekly root canals. The talent was mediocre, the singing was often out of tune and better suited to karaoke nights on a senior citizen cruise, the judging was irrelevant, viewership was way down and, perhaps worst of all, the media was not only wholly uninterested in the lackluster proceedings but downright contemptuous of them. Now, with two mostly identical specimens left to battle it out for the closing confetti shower we get one more show featuring the same old same old. After this one, everyone who still cares can vote for the one contestant they hate less or – and this is often the case – not so much for one as against the other. I will not be one of those voting few. This finale duo not only doesn't deserve my vote but how do you pick between two piles of bricks? And why would you even want to? Keep reading.
Seacrest, as always, tries to drum up some drama but his perpetual display of forced pep is nothing but tired old theater at this point. It's also Simon's last judging night on Idol and he looks as excited to be there as he did on the first episode back in January, which is to say not at all. Crystal and Lee will both be singing 3 songs apiece tonight: Their favorite song from the season, a song picked for them by executive producer Simon Fuller and the song they'll sing if they win the show. Six entire songs to slug through tonight. Lovely.
Reheating your best TV dinner
Crystal won the coin toss and she picked to go second, natch, so Lee kicks off his set with "The Boxer" which he sang on Inspirational Week. I don't remember him doing this song, or maybe I blocked it out and for good reason. La, la, la, la, la is all I hear while Lee rasps away earnestly sounding like the Nickelback tribute band front man that he was born to be with a hint of jingle crooner thrown in for good measure. This bloodless performance is hardly inspiring but at least it's short. Small favors, I guess.
Randy opines that Lee started the night off well but wants him to pick up the pace. Ellen is proud and she thinks Lee did better tonight than the first time he did the song. Kara mumbles on about how Lee must start coming alive. Simon also wants Lee to come out of deep freeze and prove he has a pulse.
Surprisingly enough, Crystal's first ever gig was at a coffee shop. Wow. Who would have guessed that one?! She is not singing in a coffee shop tonight and her choice is "Me and Bobby McGee" from Billboard #1 Night. Close enough. Oh, I do remember fast forwarding through this yawner the last time so I guess I should listen to it this time around. The vocals are cold at the start and a bit insipid but she picks up and does a decent job of it by the end. Not that this song will ever send anyone into paroxysms of delight but she outsang Lee on this one at least.
Randy says what I said about the slow start and decent finish but then he says she should make a record full of songs like this one. Yes, because everyone is just dying to listen to two dozen songs in a row that all sound the same. Ellen thinks Crystal is filling up the room with her guitar and Kara says she "told us so much about who you are as an artist". No word about what exactly Crystal said while not saying anything. Simon thinks she reheated the competition with the performance they all liked. You know, before she started taking her win for granted about a month or so ago.
Simon Fuller's pick for Lee is "Everybody hurts" which is an insult to REM but a good thing for Lee. Or it would be if he were a better singer who could sing in tune at least half the time and not such a run-of-the-mill karaoke crooner. There's nothing new about this arrangement and nothing much remarkable about Lee's growly vocals or his halfhearted delivery. In other words he's perfectly ordinary. Does this dude even want to be here tonight?
Randy thought Lee set off pitchy but picked it up later. Being "pitchy" at this stage is quite a laugh although painfully bad vocals are not an impediment to winning this show as we've seen last season. Ellen didn't care that Lee went off the reservation a couple of times and Kara loves that Lee is "emotionally accessible". Translation: Suzie Sixpack in Iowa doesn't have to do a lot thinking with you Lee, you come frozen solid and pre-packaged for convenience! Simon thought the song choice was great but, again, Lee skipped out on the melody a bit here and there but, oh, who cares, dammit, his shift from hell is almost over.
I'm not sure what possessed Simon Fuller to pick "Black Velvet" for Crystal but I deeply resent this choice. She is a competent but virtually incapable of projecting any sex appeal which is what this song needs. She grins through her performance and walks around the stage in high heels but despite her best effort, there is no excitement in her performance. The vocals are on the shouty side but at least they're in tune. That's always a plus when it comes to this season. Still, round two clearly goes to Crystal.
Randy is enthused and thinks she's "in it to win it". Ellen thinks walking down the stairs in heels was difficult for her but the performance was fantastic. Kara says Crystal did what she was supposed to do and Simon thinks she nailed it even though he is allergic to this oft-butchered song.
Warm it up and spit it out
In the last hurrah of the season, both Crystal and Lee will be singing the song they'll release as a single if they become the Idol winner. Lest you think that Idol sprung for two brand spanking new Kara-penned cheesy masterpieces, both of these songs will be covers. Yes, you read that right. It's almost comical how what is usually the big coronation song in other seasons is just another karaoke cover this time around.
Lee seems to have drawn the plum pick or the short straw, depending how you look at it since he is singing "Beautiful Day" by U2. He gets a full-blown production with a dozen violins on stage and the opportunity to scream and howl though a virtually unchanged arrangement. The audience is enthused, the swaybots sway on cue and Lee, who is wearing a black leather jacket, probably thinks he's a rocker now.
Randy mumbles something about his shaky start but how he brought it around later. Ellen thinks he was "fully present" during the song which is, I guess, a good thing. Kara feels the song was bigger than Lee – a big fat understatement – but he has a commercial voice and he deserves to be in the final. Simon says Lee is a nice guy who used to work in a paint shop and, well, he's a nice guy.
The last song of the night belongs to Crystal who is doing "Up to the mountain" which is a folk song therefore right up Crystal's alley. She sings it well but makes the song sound like a dozen other songs she has previously sung on the show. I couldn't name any of them if my life depended on it. Oh, okay I do remember her... Never mind. If you've heard her perform before you know exactly how it went: She started off low and even a bit shaky but then built into the song, belted out the middle and that was it. She could've been singing "Take me out to the ballgame" and it would have sounded exactly the same. Hey, there's one more thing Lee and Crystal have in common: they're both equally safe and predictable. Neither one is going to give you a jolt but neither is aiming to do so.
Randy is proud and thinks this was her best performance. Ellen says Crystal is unique but of course that's not true. The only thing unique about Crystal are her dreads and they did nothing for Jason Castro on radio. Kara says Crystal blossomed and was emotionally invested. Before Simon can speak, Crystal can't resist opening her big mouth one last time and speaking out of turn. She sucks up to Simon and says he's amazing and good luck to him. Huh? Good luck, Simon? Oh, I'm sure he needs it. Simon, in return, says hers was the best song of the night and it was outstanding. Quid pro quo at its finest. In a final bit of insanity, Ryan asks Crystal what she thought of her run on Idol giving her a chance to babble on about how it was all amazing and it started before Idol and her family and... oh, stuff it already!
We're almost there! The faceless dude you've never heard of – Will Young - whose song Idol called "Leave right now" Idol used to say sayonara to all the kicked off Idols, is here to sing his sleepy and deeply ironic song live on TV. All the Idols crowd onto the stage one last time before Seacrest calls curtains and we're officially free of this lackluster whale of a season. Well, almost. Somebody is winning the whole enchilada tomorrow and will officially become the third white, safe, fat-free vanilla, Disney ready, pre-packaged ,guitar-wielding coffee shop crooner in a row to scale the Idol heights. I feel we need to brand them like cattle at this point and herd them around in a pack or something.
My faithful co-capper MotherSister will serve it up one last time and give you all the deets on the innumerable filler numbers that will take up 99% of the finale show. Oh, and Simon is finally jumping off this burning, sinking death trap of a ship.
Thanks for reading. Peace.


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Personally, I never need an excuse to whip up a batch of cupcakes. Especially during the holidays. While I may try to make as many sugar-free variations for my little ones as possible, sometimes one just has to splurge. I'm all about making the holidays as magical as possible for my sweethearts. I mean, at the risk of sounding trite; isn't that what it's all about? These holidays that seem to stress us so?
This collection of cupcakes is indeed splurge-worthy and will put a HUGE smile on any older babies' (stage 3 eaters and up) and toddlers' cherub little cupcake wanting face. Be inspired and forget about fretting over what festive treat to bring to that holiday party or what you're going to serve at your own…the answer is cupcakes! (Any of these would also be perfect for a holiday themed baby shower).
But, what do I know? I'm just the crazy cupcake lady. (Otherwise known as the crazy owl lady).
Enjoy the round-up!
When in Doubt, Make Cupcakes!
Click through for a stunning (and scrumptious!) selection of festive cupcake recipes and ideas.
Frosty Cupcakes
So cute! Lots of fun for toddlers and older babies whom you don't mind giving a treat to now and then. 'Tis the season!
Get the recipe via Spoonful
Sugared Cranberry Cupcakes
These are almost too beautiful to eat, the perfect combo of sour and sweet.
Get the recipe via Cakes by Becky
Gingerbread Latte Cupcakes
I mean, come ON – right? The best part about these is that you get a cookie AND a cupcake!
As spotted on The Cupcake Blog
Old School Santa Set
Classic red and white candy cane striped…all ages will love these whimsical goodies!
Made by Bakerella
Penguins Bearing Joy
A D O R A B L E!!! Would you (could you) eat these?
Spotted on Cupcakes Take The Cake
Teensy Snowman
I love everything about these snow topped cupcakes with a vintage air. Especially how easy they are to make with such pro-like results.
Get the recipe via 101 Cookbooks
Fabulous Set of Holiday Cupcakes
Cute, detailed, amazing artistry. I especially love the Santa stuck in a snowbank ones. Genius!
Spotted on Parties 4 Me
Feliz Navidad
These are so classy. So gorgeous. Perfect for your holiday table or to bring to a party!
Made by Objectivo Cupcake
Go for a a traditional holiday look with these red, white and green snowflake cupcakes!
Made by Kimmy's Kakes
Mr. & Mrs. Claus (& Co.)
Squee! Pretty sure these are my favourite and I would have a hard time eating them – they are just so dang perfect in every way.
Made by Veruca Walker for Cupcakes For Poppy
Modern Christmas Trees
The things you can do with leftover fondant!
Recipe and instructions via Simply Cake
Mele Kalikimaka!
Meaning a very merry Christmas to you in Hawaiian. These creations are hilarious and fantastic. You must check out the entire party spread!
Made by Lynlee's Petite Cakes
Frosty Cupcakes
Clearly a feminine choice, bedecked with glitter, served up in the palest pink and soft white. So pretty!
Available through Sweet Cupcakes & Treats
Christmas Trees
Not your traditional tree, this pearlized pink tree topper will please all the girls, no matter their age.
Available through Sweet Cupcakes & Treats
Little Snowmen
The most cutest little snowmen ever! Bigger babies and toddlers will love these.
Recipe and instructions via Simply Cake
Elegant Christmas Cupcakes
I love these black and white delectables with pops of mini cranberries in a deep, rich crimson shade.
Made by Artastic on Deviant Art
Eggnog Cupcakes with a Spiced Rum Buttercream
YUM. I don't see why one couldn't substitute (or add!) Irish Cream in with these bad boys. Just sayin'.
Get the recipe via Baker's Royale
Santa & His Elves
Tiny, delicate perfection. These remind me of those great holiday claymation movie classics. Fun!
Made by Something For Cake
Leaning Tower of Christmas
Sometimes I l just can't help myself. I especially wouldn't refrain if these were in front of me!
As spotted on Design Fetish


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NetWellness is a global, community service providing quality, unbiased health information from our partner university faculty. NetWellness is commercial-free and does not accept advertising.
Friday, September 22, 2017
Injury Prevention and Safety
Tic bite
Hello my son got bitten by a tic about a week and a half ago. There is no rash or anything where he got bitten but it was on his head. But now He has a fever and hiss chest hurts.I do not know if this is from the tic,i dont think so but do you have any information? Do i need to take him to a convinent center? please answer!
If your son has a fever and chest pain, I strongly recommend that you take him to a doctor ASAP. He may well have pneumonia, which may or may not be caused by the tic bite, but which does require treatment in any case. It is very important that you mention the tic bite so that the best antibiotic to cover for tic bourne disease is selected.
Actually the scalp is very rich in blood supply, so from a tic's point of view, it is a great feeding location. Whether or not a tic causes disease depends on what type of tic it is and how long it is attached. The longer a tic is attached, the more likely it is that disease transmission has occurred.
In the case of Lyme disease, a tell tale large, round lesion, called a herald patch, may occur anywhere on the body as a sign that disease transmission has occurred. As long as the child receives early treatment for illness, the disease can be effectively treated and the chance for any long term problems eliminated.
So, by all means, take him to a pediatric doctor ASAP. I hope he is well soon.
Mary M Gottesman, PhD, RN, CPNP, FAAN
Professor of Clinical Nursing
College of Nursing
The Ohio State University