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Offseason grades for all 30 teams
http://insider.espn.go.com/nba/story...des-every-teamOne of the longest offseasons in NBA history is over and so is the illusion that comes with it -- the belief that almost every team in the league can be a winner with a little offseason luck. You know the feeling: If my team can just make a big trade or a huge free-agent acquisition or hit a home run in the lottery, maybe next season will be different.
This year, the dream lasted longer than expected thanks to a prolonged lockout. But once the two sides agreed, the deals have been coming in fast and furious.
With the NBA's abbreviated exhibition season now upon us, fans are settling into either the exciting or harsh realities of what their team did this offseason.
Unlike last season, when seismic changes happened across the league (thanks in part to LeBron James), this year things have been relatively quieter. Chris Paul was the only star to change teams and a few other potential key players, including Tyson Chandler, David West and Eric Gordon also changed addresses. But overall the landscape of the NBA hasn't changed that much. Everyone is still wondering what will happen with Dwight Howard, but the Magic seem determined to wait until the trade deadline to make a decision about him.
A less-than-stellar NBA draft, led by overall No. 1 Kyrie Irving, also has played a role in reshaping rosters. So have a few coaching changes, a couple of front office shake-ups and a major ownership change in Philadelphia.
Now that the preseason is under way, it's time to grade each NBA team on what it did this offseason.
I'm a college professor in my day job and I understand that this exercise really is the equivalent of giving a student a final grade after the first day of class -- there's so much we just don't know about how these changes will pan out. In other words, these grades are totally subjective and completely unfair. In truth, you cannot really grade an offseason until you get to the postseason.
The grades below take into account how each team in the league has performed so far in remaking its roster, considering both the opportunities it had and the moves it has made. The grades are not a ranking of which are the best teams in the league, just a device to track which teams appear to have improved and which teams haven't.
Key additions: Tracy McGrady (FA), Vladimir Radmanovic (FA), Keith Benson (draft)
Key subtractions: Jamal Crawford, Damien Wilkens
The Hawks seem to be stuck in limbo. They have a good core of Al Horford, Joe Johnson and Josh Smith, but those three just haven't been able to push the Hawks over the top.
Every year management and ownership say the same thing: Just give them a little more time. So, not surprisingly, the team hasn't done much to change the fortunes of the franchise this offseason either. Super sixth man Jamal Crawford is gone, replaced by an older, less-effective Tracy McGrady. And that's about it.
The Hawks are still capable of getting to the second round of the playoffs. But for them to make the next step, something, anything, has to change.
Key additions: Brandon Bass (trade), Keyon Dooling (trade), Marquis Daniels (FA), Chris Wilcox (FA), JaJuan Johnson (draft), E'Twaun Moore (draft)
Key subtractions: Jeff Green (injury), Glen Davis, Nenad Krstic, Delonte West, Von Wafer, Troy Murphy
How bad did Danny Ainge want Chris Paul?
With the team's title window quickly closing due to the declining games of Kevin Garnett and Ray Allen, the Celtics spent much of the first two weeks of December trying to deal Rajon Rondo and Jeff Green -- the two youngest players of their core -- to get him.
But once it was clear Paul wouldn't be wearing Celtics green, Ainge started to piece together a supporting cast for the season. He re-upped Green for a year, swapped Davis for Bass (better player, cheaper contract) and acquired Dooling, Daniels and Wilcox to fill the bench. Unfortunately, that plan is already falling apart. The Celtics learned on Saturday that Green needs heart surgery and will be out for the season. While the team will be able to void his contract, giving them some cash to spend, it's unlikely they'll find a player with Green's talent to replace him.
Nevertheless, the Celtics should continue to be contenders in the East this season. Ainge has made sure of that. But their long-term future has never been a bigger question mark than it is right now.
Key additions: Richard Hamilton (FA), Jimmy Butler (draft)
Key subtractions: Keith Bogans, Rasual Butler, Kurt Thomas
The Bulls' core of Derrick Rose, Joakim Noah, Carlos Boozer and Luol Deng continues to make Chicago one of the top two threats in the East. They made that threat a bit stronger with the addition of Hamilton.
Hamilton's shooting ability in both the midrange game and from beyond the arc is the weapon this team sorely lacked last season. While Hamilton is far from his prime, he should be able to carry the load the Bulls are asking him to shoulder without a problem.
As for Butler, he's probably not the type of player who would be a household name if it wasn't for his miraculous "Blindside"-esque story. Drafting him has to be good karma for Chicago.
Key additions: Kyrie Irving (draft), Tristan Thompson (draft), Omri Casspi (trade)
Key subtractions: Baron Davis, J.J. Hickson, Joey Graham
The Le-pocalypse is over. LeBron has moved on. Cavs owner Dan Gilbert ... not so much. But the team's reward for last season's suffering was two picks in the top four of the draft. Sadly for Cavs fans, it wasn't the strongest draft in recent memory and the team didn't land the next LeBron with the No. 1 pick.
Nevertheless, the Cavs did get better. Point guard Kyrie Irving has the potential to be an All-Star someday. He's quick and smart and he has a nice balance between scoring and distributing. Tristan Thompson was a bit of a gamble at No. 4 -- especially with Jonas Valanciunas still on the board -- but the team feels that his athleticism, offensive rebounding and emerging offensive game will be a good fit. I'm skeptical he'll be better than Valanciunas, but you can make a solid argument he will be. Omri Casspi adds some toughness at small forward.
Using the amnesty clause on Baron Davis was also a solid move. Davis is talented when he's motivated and a distraction when he's not. Most likely, he would've been a major distraction in Cleveland this season.
While the Cavs will still dwell in the Eastern Conference basement, things are looking up. With another top draft pick and a free-agent pickup or two next summer, the team should be back on track.
Key additions: Corey Maggette (trade), Kemba Walker (draft), Bismack Biyombo (draft), Reggie Williams (FA), Derrick Brown (FA), Rich Cho (GM)
Key subtractions: Stephen Jackson, Shaun Livingston, Kwame Brown, Dominic McGuire
For more than a year, our Future Power Rankings have had the Bobcats ranked dead last. Last season, in fact, the team even got a little worse. But this season, there are finally some signs of life.
Although I didn't like the Corey Maggette-for-Stephen Jackson swap -- that was, at best, a wash for the Bobcats -- the rest of the moves they've made give the Cats hope. If Kemba Walker lives up to his potential, he could be the star they've been longing for. Bismack Biyombo also has heaps of upside and, while I'm skeptical he can live up to it, was probably worth the gamble as the seventh overall pick. Reggie Williams, meanwhile, gives Charlotte a much-needed sniper on the perimeter.
The biggest addition to the team, however, might have been new GM Rich Cho. The team has been badly mismanaged over the past few years and I expect that to change under Cho. Cho's ability to manage the cap, negotiate favorable contracts and put a professional organization in place can't be overstated. The Bobcats have screwed up just about everything they've touched. If they're going to get better, especially in a small market, they have to be smarter than the other guys. For the first time in a while, they finally have that chance.
Key additions: Lamar Odom (trade), Vince Carter (FA), Delonte West (FA), Brandan Wright (FA)
Key subtractions: Tyson Chandler, Caron Butler, J.J. Barea, Rudy Fernandez, Corey Brewer
Fresh off winning an NBA championship, Mark Cuban stunned many when he decided not to bring back the key cog in the Mavs' championship run, Tyson Chandler. But the Mavs owner has a plan. It wasn't that the Mavs didn't want Chandler or didn't think he was valuable, it's that Cuban knew he had a small window to rebuild this team on the fly next summer. Signing Chandler to a huge, multi-year deal would have destroyed those chances. So Cuban decided to take it on the chin for the chance to land a Deron Williams or Dwight Howard down the road. Hard to fault him.
After working out a sign-and-trade for Chandler, Cuban then made another heist using the trade exception he just received in the Chandler deal to land the Lakers' disgruntled Lamar Odom -- the best player he could probably land who also happened to be in the last year of his contract. Odom isn't Chandler, but with him on the floor, the Mavs can play some seriously potent small ball. And if Vince Carter can give them anything, the Mavs will still have a shot at repeating while retaining maximum flexibility next summer.
Under the new CBA, having smart ownership and management will be a must. Cuban and GM Donnie Nelson just put on a master class for the rest of the NBA to learn from.
Key additions: Nene (re-signed), Andre Miller (trade), Rudy Fernandez (trade), Kenneth Faried (draft), Jordan Hamilton (draft), Corey Brewer (trade), DeMarre Carroll (FA), Michael Ruffin (FA)
Key subtractions: Raymond Felton, Wilson Chandler, J.R. Smith, Kenyon Martin, Gary Forbes
The Nuggets have rebounded better than expected in the post-Carmelo era. Nuggets GM Masai Ujiri got decent value for Melo at last season's trade deadline and the team went on to be more effective without Melo than with him.
This offseason, the task was simply not to screw things up. After Nene flirted with a number of teams in free agency, he returned home to Denver and was met with open arms. The Nuggets also added Andre Miller, who gives the team a veteran presence at the point; Fernandez and Brewer, who were cheap pickups; and draft picks Faried and Hamilton, both of whom I really like. Faried has boundless energy and is a great rebounder. Hamilton is a pure scorer who should help the Nuggets while they await the return of Wilson Chandler from China.
If the team can lock up restricted free agent Arron Afflalo to a long-term deal, the Nuggets have a shot of being better than they ever were with Carmelo Anthony. I'm not sure that should inspire a lot of confidence in Knicks fans.
Key additions: Rodney Stuckey (re-sign), Brandon Knight (draft), Tayshaun Prince (re-signed), Jonas Jerebko (re-signed), Tom Gores (owner), Lawrence Frank (coach), Damien Wilkens (FA)
Key subtractions: Richard Hamilton, Tracy McGrady, Chris Wilcox, Mike Woodson (assistant coach)
The Pistons had another quiet offseason. After winning just 27 games in 2009-10 and 30 games last season, you'd think Pistons president Joe Dumars would be in the middle of a major overhaul in Detroit. Although the Pistons' lack of moves were easy enough to explain last year when the team was for sale and management's hands were tied, many thought the Pistons would be more aggressive this offseason with new owner Tom Gores on board. Instead, the team worked to bring back Prince, Jerebko and Stuckey on multiyear deals, keeping intact most of the core of last season's team.
Still, three things have changed for the better in Detroit. (1) The Pistons waived Richard Hamilton, who had become unhappy in Motown, freeing him to leave for a contender. They made the move as a buyout and saved nearly $8 million in the process. Talk about addition by subtraction. (2) The team drafted Brandon Knight who, while still a little raw, has terrific upside. Put him on the floor with Stuckey, Greg Monroe and Austin Daye, and the Pistons suddenly have a nice, young core. (3) The team made yet another coaching change, bringing in former Nets coach Lawrence Frank to run the show. Frank has a great reputation around the league and is promising a more disciplined, hardworking team in the future.
While those moves won't particularly wow anyone, the Pistons are moving in the right direction again. This team could win 35 games and start to win back fans who left the team over the past few years.
Key additions: Mark Jackson (coach), Jerry West (executive), Bob Myers (assistant GM), Klay Thompson (draft), Kwame Brown (FA), Charles Jenkins (draft), Jeremy Tyler (draft), Dominic McGuire (FA), Bradon Rush (trade)
Key subtractions: Coach Keith Smart, Reggie Williams, Charlie Bell, Vladimir Radmanovic, Al Thornton, Jeremy Lin, Acie Law, Louis Amundson
After a season of the same Warriors status quo, new Warriors owner Joe Lacob has begun to make changes. Mark Jackson is in as head coach, respected player agent Bob Meyer is being groomed to be the new GM and Jerry West is back as a consultant. That's the good news after years of mismanagement on the part of the Warriors' old regime.
The bad news? The changes on the court haven't been nearly as bold unless you think Kwame Brown is going to take Golden State to the next level. And while the Warriors' draft landed them two big-time scorers in Thompson and Tyler, overall the team still seems to be a player away from being a true playoff contender.
Key additions: Kevin McHale (coach), Marcus Morris (draft), Jonny Flynn (trade), Chandler Parsons (draft), Jeremy Lin (waivers)
Key subtractions: Rick Adelman (coach), Yao Ming, Chuck Hayes, Brad Miller
Last offseason, GM Daryl Morey made a strong pitch at Chris Bosh -- but his creative approach, iPad included, didn't seal the deal. After trying several other alternative deals, he took a simpler approach to this past offseason: Wait and see.
Then Morey went all out to land Pau Gasol in December only to see David Stern crush his hopes again. They went to Plan B, with Marc "I'm not as good as Pau, but close" Gasol only to have the efforts thwarted by the mighty Grizzlies. With the free-agent pool dwindling, the Rockets just decided to sit back and wait again.
Eventually, Morey will be able to pull off a major deal. Until then, Rocket fans will have to placate themselves with a large measure of Kevin McHale and rookie Marcus Morris. I think McHale is a pretty good coach, though I thought Adelman was a very good one. Meanwhile, Morris has a solid chance of being a good NBA player -- but he's not going to turn the Rockets around by himself.
Those last two sentences really seem to sum up the Rockets -- pretty good and solid. Whether they'll ever amount to any more depends largely, it appears, on having a little bit of luck.
Key additions: David West (FA), George Hill (trade), Jeff Pendergraph (FA), Louis Amundson (trade)
Key subtractions: Mike Dunleavy, T.J. Ford, Josh McRoberts, James Posey, Brandon Rush
The tenure of team president Larry Bird and GM David Morway has been defined by patience. The two have been carefully and methodically rebuilding the Pacers from the ground up after the Ron Artest debacle. They entered this offseason loaded with young talent and cap room -- a covetable position few NBA teams ever reach -- and desperately needed an upgrade at the 4 and a reserve guard who can get his own shot.
Awash with cash in a shallow free-agent pool, Bird and Morway did what they always do -- they waited. And once again, it paid off. They patiently plugged and plugged away for more than a year until the San Antonio Spurs finally surrendered Indy-born George Hill. Then they waited until impatient teams overpaid the more overhyped free agents on the market and signed West to a very reasonable two-year, $20 million deal. Both players fit their needs perfectly without breaking the bank.
Meanwhile, the Pacers still have about $14 million in cap room to play around with during the season. With so much player movement expected closer to the March trade deadline, the Pacers are perfectly positioned to be major players in the trade market while still boasting a roster that's as deep as any team in the East. Even if Indy doesn't make another move, it's not inconceivable that this team could be a top-five team in the East this season.
Key additions: Chris Paul (trade), Chauncey Billups (amnesty), Caron Butler (FA), DeAndre Jordan (re-signed), Trey Thompkins (draft), Travis Leslie (draft)
Key subtractions: Eric Gordon, Chris Kaman, Al-Farouq Aminu, Craig Smith, Jamario Moon, Ike Diogu
The Clippers grew up on Dec. 14, 2011. After years vacillating between pathetic and mediocre the team finally and boldly landed a star. Chris Paul is the type of player that can turn around a franchise. Pair him with a frontcourt of Blake Griffin and DeAndre Jordan and the Clippers, for the first time in history, have the makings of a future championship contender.
To land Paul, the Clippers paid a huge price. The loss of Eric Gordon especially hurts. But ultimately, if CP3 stays in LA, he's worth it. One of the Clippers' other moves, the shrewd pick-up of Chauncey Billups off the amnesty waiver wire, should also shore up their backcourt. Yes, they overpaid for Jordan and Caron Butler. But when you look at the long-term future of this team, it's as bright as any in the NBA.
Key additions: Mike Brown (coach), Josh McRoberts (FA), Jason Kapono (FA), Darius Morris (draft), Andrew Goudelock (draft), Troy Murphy (FA)
Key subtractions: Phil Jackson (coach), Lamar Odom, Shannon Brown
The Lakers are on dangerous ground. They've been good for so long it's easy to forget what happens to great teams that hang on too long. With Phil Jackson out the door and Kobe Bryant now 33, things are about to change in LA.
The Lakers made an attempt to get a jump-start on the rebuilding process by making strong moves for both Chris Paul and Dwight Howard in December. Were in not for a last-second David Stern intervention, Paul would be a Laker, not a Clipper, right now. Nevertheless, the Lakers still look like they have the best offer on the table (Andrew Bynum and Pau Gasol) for Howard. If the Magic decide to let go, the Lakers' building process gets a huge boost.
Until then, it's going to be messy. The Lakers inexplicably gave away Lamar Odom to the Mavs for what amounts to a cap dump. There's been some talk about the Lakers using the trade exception they received in another deal, but to date it's not clear exactly what that deal would be. The Lakers' incoming class of Josh McRoberts, Jason Kapono and Darius Morris is anemic by Laker standards and this may be the year the Lakers slide from elite status in the West.
If all of this mess ends with Dwight Howard in a Laker uniform all will be forgiven. But if he stays in Orlando or goes to the Nets, it's not out of the question that Kobe will force his way out and the Laker rebuilding process will be on the slow boat to lottery land for the next few years.
Key additions: Marc Gasol (re-signed), Josh Selby (draft)
Key subtractions: Shane Battier
The Grizzlies are good. I know, it's hard to believe. After watching what they did to teams in the playoffs last season without Rudy Gay, it's plausible they are a title contender with him.
So Michael Heisley did what any competent owner would do. He signed Zach Randolph to a contract extension before last season ended and locked up Marc Gasol to a big contract in December. He now has his full core of players to go compete for a championship. For most owners all of this would be a no-brainer. But for Heisley? There was a considerable amount of uncertainty about whether it would actually happen.
The Grizzlies still have holes in some places and a glut of players in others. But if they can catch the magic they had last April and May again this season, it's not out of the question that this team could win a title. Heisley fulfilled his part of the deal. Now it's up to Gay, Gasol, Randolph, Mike Conley and Tony Allen to do their part.
Miami Heat
Key additions: Shane Battier (FA), Mario Chalmers (re-signed), Norris Cole (draft), James Jones (re-signed), Eddy Curry (FA)
Key subtractions: Mike Bibby, Zydrunas Ilgauskas, Jamaal Magliore
Last season, the Miami Heat were coming off possibly the greatest summer in the history of the NBA. With LeBron James, Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh in the fold, the Heat rounded up the best trio of players in the NBA.
This offseason was much more muted. Their big free-agent acquisition was Shane Battier, who has a stellar rep as a no-stats All-Star, but his effectiveness has waned with age. Still, he provides the Heat with important depth, leadership and defense behind LeBron.
The other move of note has to do with the departure of Mike Bibby. Bibby was way past his prime, but it's hard not to have some trepidation with Mario Chalmers running the point all the time. But if the Heat don't add another veteran in the backcourt, watch out for rookie Norris Cole. The Cleveland State product was one of the biggest draft sleepers and has been impressive in camp. He can score and distribute, and he rarely makes mistakes. He isn't an elite athlete, but when you factor in who's on the floor with him, he doesn't have to be.
Key additions: Stephen Jackson (trade), Luc Richard Mbah a Moute (re-signed), Beno Udrih (trade), Shaun Livingston (trade), Mike Dunleavy (FA), Tobias Harris (draft), Jon Leuer (draft)
Key subtractions: Corey Maggette, John Salmons, Keyon Dooling
The Bucks went from the surprise team in the East in 2009-10 to one of the most disappointing teams of 2010-11. Injuries played a major factor, but a series of questionable offseason moves by the normally steady-handed John Hammond didn't help things.
This offseason, Hammond moved quickly and decisively to right his wrongs. His two biggest acquisitions last year -- John Salmons and Corey Maggette -- are gone. The question is whether their replacements -- Stephen Jackson, Beno Udrih and free agent Mike Dunleavy -- will be any better. Jackson should provide a stronger scoring kick and Udrih gives them one of the better backup point guards in the league. Combine them with a (hopefully) healthy Andrew Bogut and Drew Gooden, and the Bucks should move back into playoff contention in the East.
Key additions: Rick Adelman (coach), Derrick Williams (draft), Ricky Rubio (draft), J.J. Barea (FA), Brad Miller (trade), Malcolm Lee (draft), Robert Vaden (trade)
Key subtractions: Kurt Rambis (coach), Tony Ronzone (assistant GM), Sebastian Telfair, Lazar Hayward
For the first time in two years, GM David Kahn didn't completely blow it. The talent on this year's Wolves team is impressive. And coach Rick Adelman, one of the most underrated coaches in the game, seems like a perfect fit for what looks like a turbo-charged squad.
Ricky Rubio is finally here, too, and should be a really nice fit with this team, while Derrick Williams and J.J. Barea should add more firepower to an already potent offensive team.
Still, the question on everyone's mind is, while a number of the individual parts look stronger than they have in a couple of years, will the team win enough games to matter? Give Kahn credit for amassing a number of assets over the years, but at some point assets have to turn into players and players into wins.
Key additions: Shawne Williams (FA), Marshon Brooks (draft), Jordan Williams (draft), Shelden Williams (FA)
Key subtractions: Travis Outlaw, Brandan Wright, Sasha Vujacic
Last year I wasn't too kind to the Nets and their summer haul of Derrick Favors, Travis Outlaw, Anthony Morrow and Johan Petro. That group seemed a galaxy away from last year's target -- LeBron James. But what do I know? The Nets had assets and somehow found a way to package them together to land All-Star point guard Deron Williams at the trade deadline.
Now the plan is to use their assets this season to get an even bigger fish. The Nets desperately want Dwight Howard and Howard wants them too. They offered center Brook Lopez and a whopping five first-round draft picks to the Magic to try to get him in December. They even offered to take back Hedo Turkoglu's toxic contract. But the Magic balked. Still, the question is whether they'll be so stubborn in March when the possibility of Howard walking away for nothing gets more real.
So you'll have to forgive the Nets if their offseason haul looks a bit bare. Yes, ideally they would've managed to find a way to surround Williams with talent now. But if they land Howard in March ... the Nets will have the most potent point guard-center combo in the league. It's hard to fault them for being patient.
Key additions: David Stern (owner, GM, head coach, starting PG), Eric Gordon (trade), Chris Kaman (trade), Al-Farouq Aminu (trade), Carl Landry (re-signed)
Key subtractions: Chris Paul, David West, Aaron Gray
David Stern won't win many awards for his performance as NBA commissioner this year. Another prolonged lockout combined with PR disaster after PR disaster will taint his legacy. But as an NBA GM? He's doing just fine.
Stern, violating the spirit -- if not the letter -- of conflict of interest rules, shocked the NBA by getting in the middle of Hornets GM Dell Demps' attempts to trade Chris Paul. Whether he did it on the insistence of the 29 other owners in the league (as every GM I know believes he did) or on his own as an independent owner of the Hornets, it was bad form for the NBA to meddle. His intervention is the sort of pulp that conspiracy theorists have suckled on for years.
Yet, when viewed purely from the realm of negotiating strategy, Stern forced the hand of the Lakers and Clippers and got New Orleans a better return for their star. The haul of Eric Gordon, the Wolves' unprotected No. 1 pick, Al-Farouq Aminu and Chris Kaman was as good as they were ever going to get.
Now Stern's Hornets are loaded with young assets that Demps can use as he pleases. Whether he ultimately keeps Gordon (who I'm hearing desperately wants out of New Orleans), Kaman or Aminu is irrelevant. They are all chips that can bring back their own bounty.
The product on the court won't be the same without Paul (and his longtime running mate David West) flying up and down the floor. But the Hornets' future in New Orleans, thanks to Stern, is a bit brighter than it was a month ago.
Key additions: Tyson Chandler (trade), Baron Davis (FA), Mike Bibby (FA), Iman Shumpert (draft), Jerome Jordan (draft), Josh Harrellson (draft)
Key subtractions: Donnie Walsh (president), Chauncey Billups, Ronny Turiaf, Shawne Williams, Shelden Williams, Derrick Brown, Anthony Carter, Roger Mason, Andy Rautins
The Knicks didn't get their ultimate prize last summer -- LeBron James -- but the two star players they did land over the course of last season (Amare Stoudemire and Carmelo Anthony) have made the Knicks a prime-time destination again.
For much of this offseason, the next move on the Knicks' rebuilding chessboard was clear -- land Chris Paul. The problem? The Knicks didn't have the cap room to sign him as a free agent, nor did they have the assets to make a trade for a player like Paul.
Credit interim GM Glen Grunwald for doing something bold. Convinced his chances of landing Paul were small, and knowing that the Knicks' biggest need was in the middle, he abandoned Paul, gave amnesty to Billups and lured Chandler to New York. While Chandler isn't a star, he is a massive upgrade in the middle and gives the Knicks their first real defensive presence at center since Patrick Ewing owned MSG.
The move left the team very weak in the backcourt, however, which the Knicks have since addressed by adding veterans Baron Davis and Mike Bibby. If the motivated version of Davis shows up in New York (likely, if he's healthy) and if Bibby has any juice left (I don't think he does), the Knicks should be fine at the point when you also factor in third-year guard Toney Douglas. And if Landry Fields reverts back to his rookie form or if Iman Shumpert is as good as his pre-draft hype New York will be very, very dangerous.
Key additions: Reggie Jackson (draft), Daequan Cook (re-signed), Lazar Hayward (trade)
Key subtractions: Robert Vaden
The Thunder tend to be overly conservative during the offseason. In their case, it's a virtue. Too many teams panic and believe they have to spend all of their money or the offseason is a failure. GM Sam Presti waits and waits and waits for the right deal to come to him. When it does (like the Celtics offering him Kendrick Perkins for Jeff Green at the trade deadline) he pounces.
The truth is that there wasn't a lot for Presti to do this summer. He has a team that is my pick to be the best team in the West this season and possibly for the next five years. Kevin Durant is locked up. Russell Westbrook will be shortly. Their supporting group of James Harden, Serge Ibaka, Nick Collison and Eric Maynor is strong.
Their only major addition is rookie Reggie Jackson, who has enormous talent and slipped in the draft because of injury issues. If he blossoms the way some NBA scouts think he could, he could be one of the steals of the draft.
Key additions: Glen Davis (trade), Jason Richardson (re-signed), Justin Harper (draft), Von Wafer (trade)
Key subtractions: Gilbert Arenas, Brandon Bass
The Magic had a pretty bad offseason. The question is, will it progress to Armageddon?
GM Otis Smith continues to bumble his way through this job in a way that would make Peter Sellers proud. At one point the Magic had a team that looked like a Finals contender for the next five years. Now? It's a mess: Dwight Howard and a bunch of overpaid, underperforming role players.
At the heart of this year's problems is the fact that Howard is pushing for a trade. The Magic are, rightfully, turning down lousy offers, but at this point it appears unlikely they'll be able to get the same haul for Howard that the Hornets got for Chris Paul.
Right now the team's two best scenarios involve the Lakers (Andrew Bynum and Pau Gasol) or the Nets (Brook Lopez and a plethora of first-round picks). Neither trade gives the Magic back fair value, but it's probably as good as they'll get.
On the periphery are a number of recent head-scratching moves. The team brought in Gilbert Arenas and Hedo Turkoglu at last season's trade deadline. A few months later, they regretted that $96 million indiscretion badly. The Magic gave amnesty to Arenas in December, choosing to eat the remaining three years, $62 million on his contract. And now they're insisting that whoever takes Howard takes Turkoglu and his $34 million contract with them.
On top of that, the team re-signed the aging Jason Richardson to a reported four-year, $25 million deal despite the fact he didn't appear to have any other serious suitors. This, as Magic fans know, is a Smith special. He signs players to big deals without context. The second was trading Bass for Davis. Bass made less money and is a better player. Go figure.
Key additions: Thaddeus Young (re-signed), Spencer Hawes (re-signed), Nikola Vucevic (draft); Josh Harris (new owner)
Key subtractions: Jason Kapono
The Sixers took a major step forward last season thanks to one significant move in the offseason -- hiring head coach Doug Collins. Collins took a Sixer team that most predicted would win around 35 games and got them the seventh seed in the East playoffs.
Can he repeat the feat this season? He must be pretty confident because the Sixers did very little to change up their team. They re-signed two of their young players -- Thaddeus Young and Spencer Hawes -- and got USC big man Nikola Vucevic in the draft.
Vucevic gives the team some much-needed size, but it's unclear exactly how much he'll be able to contribute as the rookie. What the Sixers are banking on is that Young, Jrue Holiday, second-year wing Evan Turner and Hawes all make improvements this season. With time, the new Sixers ownership team may get more aggressive, but for now, there's not much here to celebrate.
Key additions: Grant Hill (re-signed), Shannon Brown (FA), Markieff Morris (draft), Ronnie Price (FA), Sebastian Telfair (FA)
Key subtractions: Vince Carter, Aaron Brooks, Gani Lawal
The sun continues to set in Phoenix. Steve Nash, the heart and soul of the Suns, is still plugging away at age 37, but the rest of his mates from the original run-and-gun Suns are long gone. The 39-year-old Grant Hill is back to provide support and big man Marcin Gortat was a very good pickup last season.
The rest of the team, however, is a mess.
Owner Robert Sarver made most of the quagmire himself. When he wasn't ripping up a successful roster, he was alienating players this summer with his hardline stance during the lockout. Sarver has since come out claiming he was actually a dove -- a reversal that only a politician could pull off with a straight face.
The Suns' free-agent haul this year won't do much to inspire Suns fans. It consisted of Shannon Brown, Ronnie Price and Sebastian Telfair. Of the three, Brown is a legit pickup, albeit a role player. Their draft pick, Markieff Morris, is big and can shoot, but the chances of him being a starter in the NBA, let alone a franchise savior, are slim.
At some point the Suns will get around to realizing they should have traded Nash two years ago when he still had enormous value. At this point, with Nash in the last year of his deal, they won't get much. When he leaves, the team will likely be among the worst in the NBA.
Key additions: Jamal Crawford (FA), Greg Oden (re-signed), Nolan Smith (draft), Craig Smith (FA)
Key subtractions: Brandon Roy, Rich Cho (GM)
No one had a rockier offseason than the Blazers. First, owner Paul Allen inexplicably fired Rich Cho one year into his tenure as GM. Then Allen almost single-handedly prolonged the lockout. And in the course of a single day in December, the Blazers learned that Brandon Roy was retiring for medical reasons, Greg Oden had yet another setback in his rehab and LaMarcus Aldridge's heart irregularities were acting up again.
Aldridge looks like he'll be fine in a couple of weeks, but you can't say the same about the rest of the Blazers roster. Two years ago we thought the Blazers had the pieces to be a championship contender. Now? The second-best player on their team is either Gerald Wallace or Raymond Felton.
The Blazers have enough pieces to be solid, but that's about it. Jamal Crawford will provide a scoring boost off the bench, but I'm not sure that translates into wins. Nolan Smith seemed like a bit of a reach in the draft. Craig Smith was a steal in free agency, but a 6-6 power forward isn't the missing piece of the puzzle.
Key additions: Jimmer Fredette (draft), Marcus Thornton (re-signed), John Salmons (trade), J.J. Hickson (trade), Chuck Hayes (FA), Travis Outlaw (amnesty pick-up) Tyler Honeycutt (draft), Isaiah Thomas (draft)
Key subtractions: Samuel Dalembert, Beno Udrih, Omri Casspi, Marquis Daniels, Darnell Jackson
The Kings have a high batting average when it comes to the draft and, for the third year in a row, they may have hit paydirt. In 2009 they drafted the Rookie of the Year, Tyreke Evans. Last season Kentucky big man DeMarcus Cousins proved that when he's focused and not brawling with assistant coaches, he has the potential to be a dominant big man.
This year the rookie of the moment is Fredette. There's no logical way to evaluate Jimmer. You either love him or hate him. The Kings, apparently, love him.
Jimmer should be a Paul Westphal-type of player. He lets it fly from anywhere on the floor and has more point guard skills than most fans know about. Whether there will be enough basketballs to keep Fredette, Evans and Cousins all happy is a different story entirely.
When it comes to things other than the draft, however, Kings GM Geoff Petrie hasn't been as hot. The Salmons-for-Udrih deal may have been the single worst deal of the offseason. The Hickson-for-Casspi one was OK. And last season's Thornton-for-Landry deal may be the one that pays off the most. Signing Chuck Hayes, meanwhile, looked like a good move at the time, but he's currently undergoing tests for a heart abnormality. And adding $12 million long-term to the payroll for the rights to Travis Outlaw seemed like overkill.
The Kings have a number of talented young players at every position. They have cap flexibility in the future and they received a stay from leaving for Anaheim. Whether any of this amounts to winning actual basketball games is, perhaps, a better question.
Key additions: Kawhi Leonard (draft), T.J. Ford (FA), Cory Joseph (draft), Gani Lawal (FA)
Key subtractions: George Hill
The Spurs are old. Tim Duncan is 35. Manu Ginobili is 34. Richard Jefferson, who signed an excessive four-year, $39 million deal two summers ago, is 31. Even Tony Parker turns 30 in May.
Yet it's hard to break up a team that still performs the way the Spurs do.
Spurs GM R.C. Buford has talked about blowing things up for the past few years, but he doesn't have the heart to do it. When he finally made a trade to move up in the draft and nab Kawhi Leonard, he did it by trading the team's best young player (and one of coach Gregg Popovich's favorite players) -- George Hill.
The Spurs' thinking was that the team wouldn't be able to afford to keep their core together and pay Hill this summer, so they cut bait and landed Leonard, a super-talented, high-energy combo forward instead. Leonard was a good pick, but when you factor in what they gave up for him combined with the rest of their haul this offseason, it just feels like the Spurs are still going in the wrong direction.
Key additions: Jonas Valanciunas (draft), Gary Forbes (FA), Rasual Butler (FA), Aaron Gray (FA), Anthony Carter (FA), Jamaal Magloire (FA)
Key subtractions: Sonny Weems
GM Bryan Colangelo got a second lease on his job this offseason. With the pressure off, he is wisely preaching patience as he rebuilds the Raptors in the wake of Chris Bosh's defection last year.
The team got off to a great start when it landed what could be the steal of the draft, Lithuanian big man Jonas Valanciunas, with the No. 5 pick. The Raptors took a gamble, knowing Valanciunas can't play in the NBA this season. But he is worth the risk. The team is in dire need of help in the middle, and when he comes over, he should be a franchise type of center.
The Raptors will try to repeat that haul in the 2012 draft -- widely considered one of the strongest in the past five years. They won't be very good this season, but a high draft choice will be balm to that wound. The Raptors are eyeing about $15 million in cap space next summer too (even more if they choose to grant amnesty to Jose Calderon or Linas Kleiza then) and feel that next year's free-agent class has a lot more potential.
Key additions: Enes Kanter (draft), Josh Howard (FA), Alec Burks (draft)
Key subtractions: Andrei Kirilenko, Ronnie Price
Jazz GM Kevin O'Connor never gets the credit he's deserved all of these years in Utah. No one has figured out how to completely rebuild a roster as quickly and thoroughly as O'Connor has. O'Connor made the boldest move of anyone at last season's trade deadline when he abruptly traded Deron Williams to the Nets for Derrick Favors and draft picks.
O'Connor used one of those assets to draft Enes Kanter with the No. 3 pick. Then he used his own pick to bring in Alec Burks. Put those two players together with Favors and last year's lottery pick Gordon Hayward and the Jazz suddenly have one of the best young cores in the NBA. All four players have the ability to be All-Stars if they live up to their potential.
What makes O'Connor one of the best in the business is that he's doing the rebuilding while still putting a respectable team on the floor. He has solid veterans like Devin Harris, Paul Millsap and Al Jefferson still on the roster and added more depth by getting Josh Howard on a super cheap deal.
It's rare that you'll find a team that can compete for a playoff spot and be developing four excellent prospects at the same time. O'Connor has pulled that off this year.
Key additions: Jan Vesely (draft), Ronny Turiaf (trade), Chris Singleton (draft), Roger Mason Jr. (FA)
Key subtractions: Josh Howard
The Wizards, still basking in the afterglow of landing John Wall with the No. 1 pick in the 2010 draft, appear content to bask a little longer.
The team did nothing of significance in the offseason. Rookie Jan Vesely is the closest thing to an impact player among the players added to the roster. He's a high flyer and he should be great in the open court, but he's not turning around the season single-handedly. Turiaf, Singleton and Mason all provide a level of toughness to a team that lacked backbone last season. But let's not kid ourselves. The evolution of Wall and big man JaVale McGee means the Wizards will be better, but it's hard to see them cracking 30 wins this season.


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subset: commoncrawl


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Chippenham town centre was buzzing for pancake races today, with a record number of 86 competitors.
A large crowd lining the High Street saw the coveted new business cup go to 24-7 Staffing, to the delight of director Melody Thompson who jumped up and down with glee.
Recruitment consultant Josh Thompson, 18, who won the final for his employer, said: "I keep cramping up now. It was really good fun. I used to do athletics at Sheldon but I've certainly never raced with a frying pan before!"
His colleague David Turner also took third place, while second went to Matt Sartain of John Williams Heating Services, sponsors of the cup.
The new race for businesses awoke a fierce competitive spirit in the town and Emma King, tourism manager for Chippenham Town Council, said the 44 adults and 42 children taking part was a record.
"I think it was the best one ever," she said.
Among the onlookers was Jean Nokes, 73, of Monkton Park, who said: "There seems to be more atmosphere this year, more competitiveness."
Elizabeth Hunter, 69, of Derby Close, said: "It has definitely brought the town to life. It's fantastic to have all this; otherwise Chippenham would be dead. We'll come again."
In one incredibly close heat, Emery Gate's Richard Hewer was in the lead until the last second when his pancake fell to the ground and Sainsbury's Rochelle Oliver beat him to the ribbon by a millisecond.
On receiving her engraved frying pan the 19-year-old, who said she had never flipped a pancake before, said: "I'm feeling fab, pumped. I've found a new love for pancakes."
Smartly dressed Scott Lippiatt, seven, finished first in the Grittleton House School race and managed to get in four flips along the way.
"I practised on Monday and at Beavers," he said. "I never drop it."
Tiny toddlers dressed as chefs competed for Chippenham Childminders, won by two-year-old Jack Sibley, while the Rotary Club race was won by the town's mayor Sylvia Gibson.
Doll Brewer, 82, of Monkton Park, said: "The little ones are lovely, the way they're all dressed up. It's very exciting, it cheers everybody up."
Also competing were Happy Days Nursery, Rise Trust, DEVELOP Enhancing Community Support, Acorn Recruitment, Card Bar, Forrester, Sylvester and Mackett solicitors and belly dancers Sahara Sisters.


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To achieve that unique "beyer" sound, beyerdynamic has been developing and refining its sound channelling technology (SCT) for decades. Beyerdynamic's acoustic experts have created acoustic labyrinths with special geometries that provide optimised sound channelling. They influence the sound and model the polar pattern by using precisely tuned delay lines and attenuation pads. Whether with additional elements, special materials or unique design: every beyerdynamic microphone has its own sound channelling technology to ensure optimal control of the sound waves. The result? Incredible sound quality.
Details on which sound-channelling technology is used in each microphone can be found in the product descriptions in the following pages. You will hear and experience the result in every Touring Gear series microphone- that is our promise!
The secret of perfect tuning
Every beyerdynamic microphone has its own sound channelling technology that is specifically tailored to the design of the diaphragm. For example for the TG V90 ribbon microphone, a special high-tech acoustic fabric is used on the inside of the sophisticated sound labyrinth on the back of the diaphragm. This special geometry provides the optimised sound channelling that contributes to the balanced, natural sound of the TG V90.
Another part of the sound channelling technology of the TG V90 is the newly developed treble resonator, which provides the smooth high-range reproduction typical of ribbon microphones whilst protecting the diaphragm against damage from plosives.


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trihexyphenidyl (generic name)
Trihexane (brand name)
It is for Parkinsonism or for movement problems caused by certain drugs.
(trye hex ee FEN i dil)
Table of Contents
Top Learning Centers(Recursos en Español)
What is this medicine?TRIHEXYPHENIDYL (trye hex ee FEN i dil) is for Parkinsonism or for movement problems caused by certain drugs.
What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
How should I use this medicine?Take this medicine by mouth with a full glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Do not suddenly stop taking your medicine because you may develop a severe reaction.
Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
Patients over 65 years old may have a stronger reaction and need a smaller dose.
What if I miss a dose?If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.
What may interact with this medicine?
What should I watch for while using this medicine?Your doctor or health care professional may want you to have eye exams while you are taking this medicine.
Your mouth may get dry. Chewing sugarless gum or sucking hard candy, and drinking plenty of water may help. Contact your doctor if the problem does not go away or is severe.
This medicine may cause dry eyes and blurred vision. If you wear contact lenses you may feel some discomfort. Lubricating drops may help. See your eye doctor if the problem does not go away or is severe.
You may get drowsy or dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how this medicine affects you. Do not stand or sit up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. This reduces the risk of dizzy or fainting spells. Alcohol may interfere with the effect of this medicine. Avoid alcoholic drinks.
What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
Where should I keep my medicine?Keep out of the reach of children.
Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.
Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.


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Hello. If you'd like to chat about this holiday or need help finding one we're very happy to help. Rosy & team.01273 823 700 email@example.com
Independent tailor made holidays to Sri Lanka
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A fabulous family holiday including the best of Sri Lanka
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Sri Lanka - its wildlife, culture and people
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text:
Mariner Madras Pillow Cover
No longer available
- Overview
Our favorite plaid pillow cover coordinates with our Mariner Madras Quilt.
- 18" square
- 100% cotton madras.
- Reverses to solid cotton percale.
- Zipper closure.
- Insert sold separately.
- Machine wash.
- Imported.
Mix + match our bedding to create your own unique look with our Design Your Own Bed Tool.
- Dimensions + Care
- Machine wash in warm water, gentle cycle.
- Use only nonchlorine bleach, if needed.
- Tumble dry on low heat; remove promptly.
- Warm iron as needed.
- Shipping Info
This item will arrive in 3-5 business days. Please proceed to the Payment & Review page of Checkout for a precise delivery estimate.
- Final Sale
Final-sale items, identified by a price ending in $0.99, cannot be returned. Once placed, your order for any final sale items cannot be canceled.


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Capuano slated to make rehab start on Wednesday
LOS ANGELES -- Chris Capuano is getting closer to returning to the Dodgers, and the left-hander is scheduled to make a Minor League rehab start on Wednesday.
Capuano will start for either Triple-A Albuquerque or Class A Rancho Cucamonga and could be activated from the disabled list as early as May 6 to start against the D-backs. He has been on the disabled list since April 17 with a strained left calf, but Capuano said he has not felt any discomfort while throwing.
"It's good that we've been able to take our time with this and hopefully just do it one time," said Capuano, one of seven Dodgers pitchers to spend time on the DL in 2013. "I haven't felt one thing this whole process."
Capuano threw a simulated game on Saturday at Dodger Stadium and said he "felt really good." He was scheduled to throw on Sunday but decided to throw a day earlier because the Dodgers have a day game Sunday.
While Capuano has not had any issues throwing, he's still working to be able to sprint off the mound and cover first without aggravating his calf.
Austin Laymance is an associate reporter for MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.


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Future Students
- Future Students Home
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Where We Are
LBCC's Albany campus, the largest of our four locations, is located in south Albany at 6500 Pacific Blvd. SW.
Additional locations include:
- LBCC Benton Center, 757 NW Polk Ave., Corvallis (about 1 mile from OSU)
- LBCC Lebanon Center, 44 Industrial Way, Lebanon
- LBCC Sweet Home Center, 1661 Long St., Sweet Home
Free bus transportation between locations with your student ID!
It's an easy drive to ski slopes and ocean beaches, as well as some of or the country's best rock climbing and white water areas. If you prefer city life, you can enjoy shopping and entertainment in nearby Salem, Eugene and Portland.


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Doctor brings breakthrough brain cancer treatment to Seattle
SEATTLE - Mary Steinbacher should not be alive today.
In May 2011, the 57-year-old Napa, Calif. photographer was shooting an event just before her husband Jeffrey Kozody left town for business. She does not remember the next eight days, but Kozody certainly does. During the first few days of his trip he tried to phone Steinbacher, but she never answered. Worried about his wife, Kozody came home early to find her lying in bed unconscious. Doctors believed she had been there for days.
At her local hospital, an MRI image confirmed that Steinbacher had a brain tumor extending into both frontal lobes. Doctors diagnosed her with advanced glioblastoma brain cancer and told Kozody his wife had 30 to 60 days left to live.
The first thing Steinbacher remembers after her episode was meeting Dr. Charles Cobbs, her surgeon and oncologist at California Pacific Medical Center in San Francisco.
"He said to me 'You're going to be okay,'" Steinbacher said. "And I knew I was."
Glioblastoma is the most deadly form of brain cancer, but Cobbs has spent years experimenting with a new treatment that could double survival rates. Still, given the limited research, potential side effects and high costs, his approach has not been embraced by the entire medical community. But Cobbs is hoping his new role as director of the Ivy Center for Advanced Brain Tumor Treatment in Seattle will allow him to lead further research into this exciting new approach to saving brain cancer patients.
Starting with a hunch
In 2000, while working as a professor of neurosurgery at the University of Alabama School of Medicine, Cobbs proposed an idea: What if brain cancers were caused by a virus?
Most of his colleagues thought the idea was ridiculous. If a virus was at the root of brain cancers, researchers would have discovered it already, they told him.
But, Cobbs wouldn't give up on the hypothesis. He focused his research on cytomegalovirus, a common virus that infects 50 to 80 percent of adults by age 40. The virus typically has no significant effects, but it can cause brain infections in newborns and patients with a compromise immune system.
Cobbs' hunch was verified in 2002 when he started testing cancerous tumor samples from patients and found every one tested positive for cytomegalovirus.
"It was jaw dropping at the time," he said. "These were the dark years. No one believed a virus could cause brain cancer."
Many, in fact, did not believe Cobbs claims until years later after his findings were confirmed by researchers at Duke University, MD Anderson Cancer Center and UCLA.
A treatment plan
Working under the assumption that brain tumors were somehow associated with cytomegalovirus, Cobbs considered whether the antiviral drug valganciclovir (Valcyte) - typically used to treat the virus in AIDS patients - could help brain cancer patients survive.
But Cobbs said very few believed treating the virus would benefit glioblastoma patients, with the exception of Dr. Cecilia Soderberg-Naucler at the Karolinska Institute in Stockholm. The two began collaborating in 2004, and in 2006 Soderberg-Naucler started a clinical trial treating glioblastoma patients with Valcyte in addition to a standard protocol of surgery, chemotherapy and radiation. For years researchers followed 25 patients taking Valcyte continuously.
While the median survival rate for glioblastoma is typically just 15 months and only 15 to 20 percent of patients live for two years, 90 percent of Soderberg-Naucler's patients on Valcyte lived for at least two years. Even more exciting for Cobbs and Soderberg-Naucler, the median survival rate of these patients was 56 months, or just over four and a half years.
Some of Soderberg-Naucler's patients taking the drug are still alive today. These findings were published this month in a letter to the New England Journal of Medicine this month.
"If these results are able to be repeated it would be the biggest breakthrough ever by far for brain cancer treatment," Cobbs said. "Successes in the past decade have only increased median survival rates by a couple months. We're talking about doubling survival rates."
Cobbs has seen improved outcomes in his own patients treated with Valcyte, including Steinbacher, who is still alive more than two years after doctors first handed her a death sentence.
"I feel so blessed," Steinbacher said. "I know I am alive today because of Dr. Cobbs."
Potential concerns
Despite the dramatic shift in survival rates, Cobbs said many are still hesitant to treat glioblastoma with Valcyte because its success has not been verified by a large, randomized clinical trial.
Additionally, Valcyte can have adverse side effects including diarrhea, vomiting and upset stomach as well as kidney or liver function damage. Cobbs said hardly any of his or Soderberg-Naucler's patients have experienced any serious side effects.
Valcyte is also expensive, costing a couple thousand dollars each month. Because it is not approved by the FDA as a treatment for cancer, insurance companies may not cover the cost.
Carrying out a legacy
Despite these concerns, Cobbs hopes the Ivy Center will lead further research of Valcyte in a phase-3, randomized trial that could involve brain cancer centers around the world. Already researchers in his lab have seen tumor samples shut down after being treated for the virus.
"I'm planning on the Ivy Center to take the lead in that next step," Cobbs said. "I would love Seattle to be the place to make this definitive discovery."
Much of Cobbs' research on Valcyte was conducted in San Francisco. His move to Seattle is largely credited to his friend and predecessor Dr. Greg Foltz, director of the Ivy Center until he died from pancreatic cancer in June. Foltz asked Cobbs to visit the Ivy Center a year before he died and hand-picked his friend to lead the Ivy Center after his death.
"It's bittersweet that I'm here now," Cobbs said. "His philosophy was to break down barriers and any blockade to curing cancer. I want to focus on doubling survival rates for this disease in the next few years, and we have evidence that says that is in reach."
Research at the Ivy Center is funded in part by the Seattle Brain Cancer Walk, which is held on Sept. 21 this year.


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Would you like to save as your currency permanently or for this visit only?
Documentary Arts Asia
Elephant Nature Park
Absolutely loved that they are dog friendly, though this simply means that they allow dogs in the rooms. We had to cross the busy road to find grass for the dog to use as a potty. Location is actually not too far out of the way if you already know the city, but it can be difficult to find tuk tuks and passenger trucks to get you where you want to go.
3b staffs are very nice and enthusiastic. Not clean room.


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Marte homers in MLB return; Gibby sets wins mark
Pinch-hitter belts first HR since 2010; Hill, Ahmed also connect
PHOENIX -- The D-backs made a pair of Trade Deadline deals on Thursday morning and afternoon, but they didn't expect either of them to have an effect on the game that night.
After trading away two everyday starters for a trio of prospects, the D-backs planned to move forward this season with what general manager Kevin Towers called "internal options."
One of those options, Andy Marte, powered the D-backs to a series-opening 7-4 win against the Pirates just hours after joining the team.
"They told me, 'Be ready. You might pinch-hit,'" Marte said. "I went to the cage and started getting loose. ... It feels great to be back."
After coming in as a pinch-hitter for reliever Oliver Perez, Marte lifted a fly ball off Pirates starter Jeff Locke (2-3) that landed a few rows into the left-field stands, giving the D-backs a 5-3 lead in the bottom of the sixth.
The homer was Marte's first in the Major Leagues since 2010, which was also the year he last played in a big league game.
"I feel like I'm back," Marte said. "It was awesome."
Said Locke: "I didn't even know he was on the team. Had no idea. I haven't seen him since we were in Braves camp. I got a changeup in the zone, and he's got some power and hit it."
It wasn't just a memorable day for the 30-year-old former top prospect. Manager Kirk Gibson entered the D-backs' record books with his 338th managerial win, eclipsing Bob Melvin for most victories in franchise history.
Gibson celebrated the record after the game, arriving to his normal postgame news conference soaked after what he described as a "little beer shower by the boys."
"We'd like to do those type of celebrations [when we] win a world championship," Gibson said.
Gibson can attribute the record-setting win to some power bats and a lucky break.
The D-backs first got on the board after they loaded the bases in the fourth inning. Down 2-0, pitcher Josh Collmenter hit a grounder to Pirates third baseman Pedro Alvarez. First baseman Ike Davis couldn't corral Alvarez's low throw and it dribbled away, allowing two runs to score.
The D-backs jumped ahead the next inning on a single by another "internal option" at third base, Jordan Pacheco, who got the start at Martin Prado's former spot and responded with a pair of hits.
"Jordan played good today," Gibson said. "He came up here, his shoulder was hurt, [he] tried to hang out for a while. He's much fresher, more confident. We know he can hit."
In the top of the sixth, the Pirates knotted the game up on a solo homer by second baseman Neil Walker, which forced Collmenter out of the game after 5 1/3 innings of three-run ball.
But the D-backs came right back with a trio of homers.
Two batters after Marte gave the D-backs the lead, second baseman Aaron Hill added to it, roping a solo shot into the D-backs' bullpen.
After the Pirates showed some life and cut the lead to two in the seventh inning, shortstop Nick Ahmed hit his first Major League home run to finish off the scoring as Oliver Perez, Evan Marshall, Brad Ziegler and Addison Reed combined for 3 2/3 innings while giving up one run and striking out five.
"[I] didn't make some pitches early on," Collmenter said. "Guys picked me up, though. The bullpen threw great again. Marte with a big hit, Ahmed with his first home run. So it's fun watching those guys."
Adam Lichtenstein is an associate reporter for MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.


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Posted 6 years ago
(2 items)
I was given this Jimi Hendrix album called "Axis: Bold as Love." It was printed in the USA, and, as far as I an tell, is in the original shrink wrap.
The shrink wrap is slightly torn at the top two corners, but it has definitely never been opened.
As can be seen, the original price sticker says $2.25. I was wondering if anyone knows the value of this album in this condition? I really have no idea, but I'd like to know.


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Amedisys Home Health Care announced the opening of its office at 108 NW 3rd Avenue in Chiefland to service Levy, Dixie and Gilchrist counties.
The agency be headed by Susan Bitson, and will offer a complete menu of home care services.
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You have done a great disservice to my shul, my congregation and my rabbi, Steven Schonblum. The article "Rabbi's contract not renewed at Beth Radom," (Jan. 3), makes negative assertions against Rabbi Schonblum in a manner that led me to believe it continued an effort to hurt the rabbi and his future. I express my dismay in the strongest possible terms.
The story should have made a greater effort to broaden its background information about the rabbi. It did not properly investigate. It did not report the strong positive feelings that many within the congregation have for Rabbi Schonblum. The closing comment about the rabbi not answering requests for his response was insufficient. He may not, at this time, have been able to comment or respond.
Peoples' views may differ, but to fail to give respect and honour to a man who has done his job and more than his job for the vast majority of the congregants is wrong. Rabbi Schonblum does not deserve this treatment. He has stood by me and my family in bad and good times. He has made my family's shuI experiences very personal events that have stayed with each of us. He has acted and done everything I expected and would expect my rabbi to do.
Long ago, Rabbi Harold Lerner, of the Pride of Israel, said to my wife and I, "It is your job as parents to bring your children to shul, but it is my job as rabbi to keep them here." This is what Rabbi Schonblum has done for me and my family, and for many others. He has shared his goodness, his caring and his support for each and every person with whom he has come into contact.
Elliot Berlin
Thornhill, Ont.
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Congregants value rabbi's counsel
I was surprised and saddened by the biased article "Rabbi's contract not renewed at Beth Radom," (Jan. 3) about Rabbi Steven Schonblum. He is the reason we joined Beth Radom Congregation. He has been the spiritual leader of our family for 14 years, beginning from before he became spiritual leader of the shul. He has always been available for us, in difficult times and happy times. Your article should have enlisted the large number of members who value his counsel and are disgusted with the present board, in its vendetta against him.
Bernice Slotnick
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Con man on subway
Further to the letter titled "Con man on Toronto subway," (Jan. 3), I had a very similar experience, but was fortunate not to have ultimately given the man money. I did contact the police and subway authorities. I also posted a warning on a local email list that goes out to many Orthodox women in the city. I was amazed/alarmed at the response. Many women wrote back saying that a similar story happened to them/their friend or loved one. In each case, the con artist targeted his Jewish audience well. I hope more exposure like this will discourage this opportunistic thief.
Andrea Skosowski
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Antisemitism on the ice
It was great to read about Andrew Goldberg's exciting hockey career ("Mississauga power forward works hard in draft year," Dec. 20). I wish him all the luck in the world. However, I am disturbed by the statement, "He occasionally hears on-ice taunting about being Jewish, but he thinks the other players are only 'trying to get me off my game. In hockey, it's chirping.'" My suggestion is that whether the comments or chirps are about Jews, or Muslims, or blacks, or gays or the disabled, and whether they take place on Twitter, in the classroom, in the workplace or on the ice, that they are in fact a form of racism and bigotry, and in Goldberg's case, antisemitism. He should let his opponents know that.
Mark Wise
Thornhill, Ont.


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Moderators: Timko, Fritz, Solty, Booter, Blake_T, Frank Delicious
jsun3thousand wrote:Disc golfers are holding the sport back.
Furthur wrote:Either get a lighter one, throw harder, or find a disc with more glide.
Working Stiff wrote:When you go to St. Louis in the baseball off-season, you can drink Budweiser. You can go to the Bowling Hall of Fame. The Bowling Hall of Fame is better if you have several Budweisers first. The Blues are a good time if they are in town. Sometimes they have tractor pulls down at the dome (once again copious Budweiser consumption is suggested.) If all that fails, you can always hit a bar and drink some Budweisers.
Basically having lived in St. Louis and Chicago I always say Chicago was a crappy town to live in but I love to go back and visit. St. Louis was a great place to live, but I get bored as Hell when I go back to visit. The Budweiser tonic can cover up some of the boredom, but not all.
As for the golf, Sioux Passage and Jefferson Barracks have been #1 and #1A in that town for 15 years. Nothing has really changed that. Foundation Park is a good as advertised, but it takes an hour or so from downtown to get there and there is really no other reason to go that way. Endicott, Woodland and Rocksprings are a notch below. Unger is unfinished and hard to navigate. Lindenwood College has already been closed to non-students and is well on its way to getting pulled in record time. The rest are unremarkable.
Rolling up 55 you will go right by West City Park in Festus and Jefferson Barracks. Sioux Passage is waaayyy up North.Tossin' in Memphis wrote:So if I am coming in from Memphis on 55, is Sioux Passage or JB more accessible? We are staying about 6 miles west of downtown but I forgot the name of the hotel. We intended to play on Friday as we were approaching St' Louis....Also, do either of the course have a pro shop? Does ANYBODY in St' Louis sell Latitude discs?
Furthur wrote:Either get a lighter one, throw harder, or find a disc with more glide.
Furthur wrote:Either get a lighter one, throw harder, or find a disc with more glide.
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Cleaning Up Diarrhea
Topic Overview
It is recommended that you wear disposable gloves when cleaning up diarrhea or other body fluids. You may wear reusable rubber gloves if you wash them after each use. If you don't have gloves, be sure to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water when you are finished.
To clean up diarrhea from skin, such as your baby's bottom:
- Wear disposable gloves.
- Use damp paper towels to wipe up the stool, and put the used paper towels in a plastic trash bag.
- Gently wash the diaper area with warm water and a soft
cloth. Rinse well and dry completely.
- Do not use any soap unless the area is very soiled. If soap is needed, use only a mild soap, such as Cetaphil or Johnson's Baby Soap.
- If your baby has a diaper rash, do not clean the skin with "baby wipes" that contain alcohol or propylene glycol. These wipes may sting the skin and allow bacteria to spread. For tips on caring for a baby with diaper rash, see the topic Diaper Rash.
- Remove your gloves and throw them away in a plastic bag. Then wash your hands with soap and water right away.
To clean up diarrhea from soiled linens or clothes:
- Wear disposable gloves.
- Wipe off any stool with paper towels, and put the used paper towels in a plastic trash bag (or small amounts of easily removed stool can be cleaned with toilet paper and flushed down the toilet).
- Wash clothes in a washing machine, preferably with hot water, using household laundry detergent. You can add household bleach to the wash cycle, if you like.
- After you finish handling soiled clothes, remove your gloves and throw them away in a plastic bag. Then wash your hands with soap and water right away.
- Dry clothes in a hot dryer. Note: There is no need to disinfect the tubs of the washer or the dryer tumbler after a full cycle is completed.
To clean up diarrhea from hard surfaces, such as a toilet seat or bathroom floor:
- Wear disposable gloves.
- Wipe up the stool with paper towels, and put the used paper towels in a plastic trash bag. Rinse the surfaces with water.
- Disinfect hard surfaces with
diluted household bleach about 75mL (1/3 cup) of bleach to about 4L (1 gallon)
of water or with disinfectants that you buy at the store. Wet the surface with
the diluted bleach or disinfectant, and let it air dry.
- If you mix your own diluted household bleach, use goggles or glasses to protect your eyes from splashes.
- Also, be aware that diluted bleach may remove colour from some hard surfaces.
- Remove your gloves and throw them away in a plastic bag. Then wash your hands with soap and water right away.
Related Information
ByHealthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer William H. Blahd, Jr., MD, FACEP - Emergency Medicine
Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer H. Michael O'Connor, MD - Emergency Medicine
Current as ofMay 27, 2016
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