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FAIRFIELD -- Barring a breakthrough at a mediation session, the city of Vallejo and its former downtown developer are headed to court next fall.
Lawyers for the city and its fired downtown developer Triad Downtown Vallejo, LLC, met in Solano County Superior Court on Wednesday after Judge Michael Mattice denied the city's dismissal based on legal issues. A jury trial date was set for Sept. 10.
At issue is the long-floundering plan to redevelop downtown Vallejo.
Triad agreed in 2005 to help revitalize the area with retail and residential units on seven parcels in 12 square blocks bordered by Sonoma Boulevard and Capitol, Santa Clara and Maine streets.
The agreement gave Triad the exclusive right to develop downtown and prevents the city from even talking to another developer about the area.
Triad officials say the firm has too much invested to walk away and is committed to improving downtown. They say they've invested more than $10 million already, including the elaborate renovation of Virginia Street's Empress Theatre.
Last year, Triad sued the now defunct Vallejo Redevelopment District, whose functions the city took over, for breach of contract, after the city fired the firm for not redeveloping the downtown as promised.
The city severed its agreement with the company in March 2009, after four years of working together.
Triad attorney Robert Stumpf, Jr. argued that a clause in the firm's contract with the city relieved it of its obligations if something happened beyond its control to prevent the project going forward. Company officials say the real estate market collapse and subsequent recession fit the definition of such a circumstance.
The city's lawyer Leah Castella of Oakland-based Burke, Williams & Sorensen, LLP, countered that Triad's failure to secure funding for its project predated the recession by two years. She said that case law suggests that there's a time limit of about a month between an event occurring, and a when a failure to perform a contracted function can be blamed on it.
Castella further argued that an economic downturn doesn't qualify as a circumstance beyond the firm's control, because, like in any other purchase, securing funding is a risk the firm knows it's taking when it enters into a contract.
"Triad is trying to force the city to remain in a contract with it indefinitely ... though they will never be able to build the project they promised," Castella said.
Stumpf said his clients disagree with the city. He said one is not in default until a notice of default as been received. He said he has answers to all the city's arguments but believes these are matters that must be decided at trial.
Mattice agreed, and set aside 10 days for a jury trial in his courtroom, which by then will have moved to the courthouse in Vallejo. The move is schedule for December.
Contact staff writer Rachel Raskin-Zrihen at (707) 553-6824 or firstname.lastname@example.com. Follow her on Twitter at RachelVTH.


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Mortgage rates skyrocketed to their highest levels since August on Friday, both as a part of an ongoing move higher that began yesterday and more specifically in reaction to overnight events in Europe. Strong economic data in Germany sent interest rates initially higher overnight, but the bigger surge followed an ECB announcement detailing the 278 of 523 European banks that had already begun paying back 3-year loans made by the ECB in late 2011. MBS (the mortgage-backed securities that most directly...
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BofA's Moynihan on U.S. Lending, Housing, Economy
New Home Sales Down 7.3% in December
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subset: commoncrawl


text:
I get those all mixed up.
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Please make this joke of the day only a one time thing. Plus it's more than likely not your joke since you probably found it on the internet or got it in an email from a family member who finds it necessary to e-mail everyone they know stupid jokes. This joke might make a 6 year old laugh and that's about it.
Oh quit whining, you were just called out on a bad joke you got from an e-mail! I don't know how some you guys make it off of the safety of the internet in the real world.Originally Posted by vapacersfanThis quote is hidden because you are ignoring this member. Show Quote
why do you post that?? like i care? does that hurt my feelings?
The trollish posts need to stop. If it's only joking, it's being done in poor taste.
In the real world, there is this little thing called tact...Originally Posted by Jesus ShuttlesworthThis quote is hidden because you are ignoring this member. Show Quote
You, Never? Did the Kenosha Kid?


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It's not unusual to hear about people giving their time and fortune around December. For Betty Londergan (also known around OU as President Schall's wife), giving has literally been an everyday thing for almost a year in 2010.
An author and active community member, Betty made local and national headlines with her "What Gives? 365" blog project, a year-long effort in which she donates $100 a day to a different organization or person doing good work in the community. Each day she hits her blog to express why she thinks the cause is worthy of support and encouraging others to do the same.
Her blog garnered national attention in USA Today and Huffington Post and was featured in Whole Living magazine, and she appeared on the Martha Stewart Show in an episode that will spotlight charitable organizations, philanthropists, and giving.
By the end of 2010, Betty donated a grand total of $36,500—funded through a small inheritance she received from her father. On her blog, Betty reveals that her parents were incredible savers but also passionate givers and thinks that her mother would have approved. "Dorothy Mae would love that and say that it's about time I stopped buying so many darn shoes and did something for others."
After weathering some financial storms of her own, the old adage, 'putting your money where your mouth is' took on new meaning. "Giving away money is the absolute antidote to fear and insecurity about money," Betty said in the Whole Living article. "Desire and clutching cause suffering—and when you let go, it's a beautiful thing."
Tune in to the Hallmark Channel on Wednesday, December 22, 2010 at 10:00 a.m. to see Betty chat with Martha Stewart!


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Coming the Transportation Research Board's 91st Annual Meeting from January 22-26 in Washington DC? Themed "Transportation: Putting Innovation to Work," the meeting will spotlight over 4000 presentations through nearly 600 workshop sessions. Covering all transportation sectors, this meeting will be interest to working professionals, academics and policy-makers alike. More information on workshop offerings can be found here, and an interactive program here.
Looking for a more private and cozy place to lay your head during the session? Our DC bed and breakfast is conveniently located mere blocks from the conference, and near the heart of Dupont Circle and the Adams Morgan neighborhood in DC.
Jennifer, Innkeeper
American Guest House in Washington DC


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This game was classified by the community with the following category scores - Violence=2/3, Sex=3/3, Mature Content=3/3. Man up and get a girlfriend! Choose your route carefully and win the heart of a special girl or you might end up a level 30 wizard.
Buy Xbox content on Xbox.com. Your Xbox 360 console will automatically download the content next time you turn it on and connect to Xbox Live.Learn More


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A crapy party is a political party that makes you feel like crap. People go and vote for it, as if they were going to a party but then, the next day, they realize that their lives suck; far from becoming rich and prosperous, they realize they are poorer than ever, and feel miserable. It is worse than the worse hangover ever.
I happily voted for the PP, the Popular Party. But now, when I realize who they are and that I will never ever have a job again, I am scared and feel miserable, I think this is a Crapy Party, and should be called Crappy PParty, using their acronym, ha ha!. They like to talk about free competition but they transformed the national telephone company into their own private monopoly, they own the whole country and now they are going to rob us the social security!. Moreover, I discovered they are the descendants, friends, and descendants of friends of the fascist general who hired Hitler and Musolini to destroy the country, to end the democracy and establish a military regime that lasted 45 years.
by Indignado May 02, 2013
The Urban Dictionary Mug
One side has the word, one side has the definition. Microwave and dishwasher safe. Lotsa space for your liquids.Buy the mug
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It hasn't been a case of all change for Ricki Herbert since the All Whites' unbeaten run at the 2010 World Cup but he has mixed and matched in 18 games played since.
Of the 23 players in South Africa, 11 started all three games while four played off the bench in one or more games. Eight took no part including Michael McGlinchey who has since been one of the busiest All Whites.
In the 18 games since the World Cup McGlinchey, who made his debut against Jordan in 2009 and played in the crucial play-offs against Bahrain, has started 14 times and come off the bench twice. The only games he did not appear in were the two matches against the Solomon Islands at the Nations Cup in Honiara.
Kosta Barbarouses, like McGlinchey, made his international debut before the World Cup playing against Fiji in November 2008. He was not included in the World Cup squad, missed the remaining 2010 fixtures against Honduras and Paraguay but has played every game since starting in all but four.
The "Godfather," Ivan Vicelich, continues to tot up his All Whites appearances.
Cajoled out of retirement to go to the World Cup, Vicelich has now reached 85 full international appearances - 16 more than Simon Elliott who played the three World Cup matches and three of the next four but none since the 3-0 loss to Mexico in Denver in June last year.
Including the World Cup games, Vicelich has started in 16 matches and played three, counting this week's 1-1 draw with China in Shanghai, off the bench.
Ryan Nelsen, who played all at the World Cup and against Honduras post-South Africa, has played only four since. Tommy Smith, captain in Nelsen's absence, missed four of the five games after the World Cup but has started in the 13 since.
Since the beginning of 2011, Herbert handed debuts to 10 players. Michael Boxall, Michael Fitzgerald and Marco Rojas all started from the bench in the 1-1 draw with China in Wuhan last October.
Fitzgerald then started the next match against Mexico in Denver and was a substitute four days later in the 3-0 loss to the Socceroos in Adelaide. He hasn't turned out for the All Whites since.
Rojas missed the games against Mexico and Australia but has played 12 since then including eight starts.
Jake Gleeson played in goal off the bench on debut against Australia and then replaced Mark Paston when he was injured in the first game of the Nations Cup in Honiara and started the remaining four matches.
Dan Keat debuted against Jamaica in Auckland earlier this year but did not play again until he came on as a substitute against Tahiti, away and home, in the World Cup qualifiers last month before his first start against China this week.
Ian Hogg started, and scored, on debut against El Salvador in the 2-2 draw in Houston in May and three days later against Honduras in Dallas. He played twice in Honiara, starting against Solomon Islands and New Caledonia but nothing since.
Cameron Howieson joined Hogg as a debutante against El Salvador (off the bench) and has had three substitute outings since including this week's game in China.
Tim Payne started from the bench on debut against Honduras and against Papua New Guinea in Honiara. He has since been in the starting XI four times and as a substitute once in the World Cup qualifier in New Caledonia.
Adam McGeorge also debuted as a substitute against Honduras and was again used that way against the Solomon Islands in Honiara in his only two appearances.
Tim Myers made his debut off the bench against PNG in Honiara and started the games against the Solomons and New Caledonia but hasn't been used since.
Since the World Cup, 32 players have pulled on an All Whites shirt; only retirees Andy Barron and James Bannatyne of the World Cup squad have not been figured.
Of the 29 post-World Cup goals, Chris Wood scored 10, Shane Smeltz six, McGlinchey and Chris Killen three each, Barbarouses two and Smith, Tony Lochhead, Hogg, Rojas and Ben Sigmund one each.
Score card
All Whites since the World Cup 2010:
*Played 18, won 8, drawn 5, lost 5
*Goals scored 29, goals against 24
*Fifa ranking: 54 after World Cup
*Fifa ranking: 93
- Terry Maddaford


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Posted 6 years ago
(373 items)
I am a newcomer to this whole stamp collecting thing. I found this stamp and I am using Kenmorstamp.com as a guide. This stamp could be a valuable variation, but I am unsure. There is the 1 cent Franklin - green perf. 11x10 and the 1 cent Franklin - green perf. 10. I don't know the difference but according to this site the difference in values is almost $175 so I would really like to find out lol. Can anyone help?


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Capital YWCA hits 100 (with video)
here. CHARLESTON, W.Va. -- It began in the early 20th century as a safe haven for women from rural communities who came to Charleston seeking a job and a life for themselves.A century later, the YWCA of Charleston is still meeting the needs of women -- although the needs, and the women, have changed over the years. But some things are still the same."The YWCA is still living out our mission today in some ways that were very similar to how we were living out our mission when this organization birthed in this community in 1912," said YWCA Charleston Executive Director Debby Weinstein, who has worked for the organization for more than 25 years.Founded in 1912, Charleston's YWCA is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year.The local chapter began when five members of the Baptist Temple in Charleston -- Daisy Stromstadt, Rose Shelton, Louise Tuxbury, Mrs. James Montgomery and Eleanor Hopper -- formed it in the Payne Building at the corner of Virginia and McFarland streets. The first building had 23 bedrooms, a parlor, dining room, kitchen, laundry and a gymnasium.During those days, Weinstein said, women came to the city to seek opportunities that their smaller hometowns did not offer."In rural communities, the only opportunities they had were to hope to find someone to marry and to be dependent on the gentleman," Weinstein said. "That clearly was a phenomenon that had started changing. Women were seeking the opportunity to be self-sufficient. If you look at the beginning of the women's movement, it really had some legs back in the very early 1900s."In the early days, the YWCA's programming included physical fitness, education, sewing, cooking, dressmaking, millinery and religious education.The organization built its own building in 1922 on a vacant lot at 1114 Quarrier St.The YWCA worked hard to stay relevant during each of the decades of the past century, Wein-stein said.In 1937, the organization created the area's first childcare center. That became especially important in the 1940s as men left for World War II and women joined the work force in their stead. Today, the YWCA continues to offer childcare service for low-income parents at the Mel Wolf Child Development Center. The center serves 135 children from newborn to school age.Children from low-income homes have different needs from those where financial restraints are less of an issue, Weinstein said."Oftentimes, when you have single parents, they're working two and three jobs just to make ends meet," Weinstein said. "They do not understand that their kids have got to get the skills in the preschool arena in order for these children to have a successful academic experience right out of the gate."The Child Development Center serves breakfast, lunch and an afternoon snack to students as well as a light supper to students who attend in the afternoon, said Elizabeth Teel, the center's director."We make sure that we are serving the components that are required by federal food guidelines," Teel said. "[We are] making sure that the children are provided nutritious meals while they're here."The meals are sometimes the only nutritious ones the students get, she said.In 1944, the local YWCA took a controversial stance against racism with the national YWCA organization and supported putting black women into leadership positions. "Certainly, the YWCA of the United States was way ahead of its time," Weinstein said. "The fact that this community got behind the national YWCA so early on in terms of its commitment to empowering women to lead self-sufficient lives, as well as promoting racial justice and working hard to eliminate racism, I think speaks volumes about this community, not just this organization. This community has been behind the YWCA since its inception 100 years ago."In 1981, the YWCA opened the community's first emergency domestic-violence shelter as violence in relationships was being reported more and more. Today, the Resolve Family Abuse Program offers round-the-clock shelter, a crisis hot line and other services for domestic-violence victims in Kanawha, Clay and Boone counties.Homelessness and poverty, too, were on the rise in the early 1980s."[There were] large numbers of women with children becoming homeless," Weinstein said. "That was a relatively new phenomena in this community and in this country, [and the YWCA] offered to open up a shelter for homeless women and children in its building."The YWCA's homeless shelter, Sojourner's, exists today as a 75-bed facility on Washington Street East."We wrap many services around these women and children in order to have them move out of the cycle of homelessness to becoming self-sufficient and self-reliant human beings," Weinstein said.The YWCA also offers permanent housing for the chronically homeless with its Empowerment Homes for Women.In the early 2000s, the YWCA opened up a used clothing store and a used furniture store to help fund its programs. Revenue from the Past & Present Gently Used Clothing Store offsets the operating costs for the YWCA's transitional housing for battered women. Known as the Alicia McCormick Homes for Battered and Homeless Women and Children, the program offers 18 months of housing to residents who contribute a third of their income to offset costs.The used furniture store, 2nd Seating, opened in 2003 at 412 Elizabeth St. to help offset the costs of the YWCA Elder Abuse Initiative, which was in the development stages."We were seeing more and more elderly and disabled women who were being exploited, victimized and were experiencing homelessness because of it," Weinstein said. "[They were] landing in our homeless shelter. Thus, we created programming to address these needs."In 2006, the YWCA opened the Shanklin Center for Senior Enrichment, a permanent supportive-housing program for disabled women who were victims of elder abuse and are homeless because of the abuse.The eight apartments stay full, Weinstein said. She added that the elder-abuse problem in the United States is much like domestic violence was in the 1970s. People talk about it, but not much is being done to stop it at this point, she said."The YWCA is trying to take some leadership here in trying to create some programming," Weinstein said.Last year, the YWCA moved its headquarters to the previous home of the Clay Foundation, on Kanawha Boulevard, after the foundation's board members voted to donate the building to the YWCA. The Clay Foundation also gave the organization an endowment of $2 million, which the organization matched with fundraising.The YWCA continues to offer physical activity services through its partnership with Nautilus at the Quarrier Street location.Looking to the future, Weinstein said elder abuse and women in war are two areas that perhaps the YWCA will focus on next."[Women in the military] is a whole new phenomenon for our country," she said. "Women are on the front lines. In the '40s, the YWCA helped to recruit women to join the military and the war effort, but we are, only now in the last five years, seeing women join the military and getting up to the front lines."This is going to have tremendous ramifications for women who are single women and women with families."One of those ramifications is post-traumatic stress disorder, which Weinstein said is likely to affect the day-to-day lives of women differently than it does men."That's an issue we're looking at," she said.Reach Lori Kersey at email@example.com or 304-348-1240.


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Since winning the $4 billion contract from the U.S. Air Force for development and engineering of the KC-X refuelling tanker last February, Boeing has provided only generalities on the design of its KC-46A. Last week, during a series of media briefings in Philadelphia and St. Louis preceding the Paris Air Show, Dennis Muilenburg, CEO of Boeing Defense & Space CEO, said, "We don't do airplane design in the public realm." But he did say that the new tanker was related to an as-yet undeveloped freighter version (designated 767-2C) of the 767-200ER.
Jean Chamberlin, vice president and general manager of the Boeing Military Aircraft Mobility Division, said more information will be forthcoming after completion of a systems requirements review, followed by an integrated baseline review planned in August. "At that time, we'll have a complete understanding between ourselves and the United States Air Force on expectations with regards to the configuration of this aircraft and its performance, as well as the detailed integrated schedule that will allow us to deliver in 78 months 18 aircraft that are combat-ready. That's the essence of our contract requirement," said Chamberlin.
Boeing promises a "low-risk approach to manufacturing," while incorporating a new digital flight deck based on the Boeing 787 Dreamliner, "an advanced KC-10 boom with expanded refueling envelope" and fly-by-wire control system. Artists' impressions no longer depict winglets.
The selection of Boeing's platform over the EADS A330-based offering culminated a protracted, scandal-tainted competition that began as an Air Force plan to lease tankers from Boeing. While the $4 billion contract requires the delivery of 18 aircraft, the overall requirement to replace 179 aging KC-135 tankers is valued at $30 billion.
"Rest assured [the program] is going well, we've got a happy customer and we believe the taxpayer is getting a very good deal with the firm fixed-price contract we bid," said Chris Chadwick, president of Boeing Military Aircraft.


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No injuries were reported in a fire that damaged a home on Diener Road early Thursday.
Washington firefighters were called to the home at 334 Diener Road about 2:35 a.m. and quickly extinguished the blaze.
Fire Chief Bill Halmich said it appears the cause of the fire was an electronic gaming device located in a computer room off of the home's kitchen.
Halmich said the homeowner, Christopher Kiel, had just returned home, found the house full of smoke and called 911.
The fire chief said when he arrived on the scene he noticed light smoke, then did a perimeter search and saw flames through a window at the rear of the house. When the first crew arrived they extended a hose line to the rear of the house to knock down that fire, then another crew entered through the front door.
The first floor of the home sustained extensive heat and smoke damage, Halmich noted, and there was fire damage in the small computer room.
Not a Member
Halmich noted that the homeowner is not a member of the Washington Rural Fire Association, which has seen membership decline in recent years.
That means the Washington Fire Department can bill the homeowner for extinguishing the blaze at the rate of $500 per hour, according to state law.
In contrast, the annual dues to belong to the rural fire association is $40 per year, the fire chief said.


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Speaking of new smiley, was thinking that with such a great start the Pacers are off to
this season, it might be a nice time for the admins to update the player smilies here
on PD with players on the current roster. Should there really still be smileys of guys
like Ike Diogu, Rawle Marshall, etc., when we now have the best team in the NBA?
I have a zip file of smileys with the Pacers current 2013-14 roster which are in the same
65x90 jpeg format as the player smilies PD already has. I looked all over PD for an
email address so I could send them to an admin, but couldn't find one, so emailed
them to able at able-towers.
I haven't heard back if he received them, so if not, would any admin here be interested
in getting these?
Good idea. I'm not sure you can e-mail a zip file to me without it being flagged as a potential malware risk, but if you want to just attach each .jpg individually, you can e-mail them to me: hickspacers at gmail dotcomThis quote is hidden because you are ignoring this member. Show Quote
"Nobody wants to play against Tyler Hansbrough NO BODY!" ~ Frank Vogel
"And David put his hand in the bag and took out a stone and slung it. And it struck the Philistine on the head and he fell to the ground. Amen. "


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Hospitality Management
The major is administered through the academic unit Program of Hospitality Management.
The Hospitality Management major is designed to develop hospitality management leaders through sound theoretical coursework, innovative learning activities, mentoring opportunities, exposure to premier hospitality organizations and interactions with dynamic industry professionals. Major requirements are met through small classes, team learning experiences, and meaningful personal contacts with faculty and industry professionals. In the major, students will complete a supervisory internship prior to graduation.
Degrees Offered
Declaring the Major
New Freshmen and Transfer Students
Students should declare the Hospitality Management major when they register for orientation.
Currently Enrolled Major Changers
Students should submit a "Change or Declaration of Major" form to the School of Hospitality, Sport and Recreation Management in Godwin Hall, room 355.
Progressing in the Major
Remain in good academic standing with at least a cumulative GPA of 2.00.


text:
MIAMI — It happens fairly regularly at games in Miami, a moment when LeBron James gets serenaded by chants of "M-V-P" from the Heat crowd.
Dwyane Wade thinks those fans are only getting it half right.
James is a leading candidate to be the league's MVP this season, an award that would be his for the third time in four years. He's on pace to become one of the top 50 scorers in NBA history by early April, and is the only player in the league ranked among the top 25 in points, steals, rebounds and assists per game this season.
But Wade thinks James shouldn't just be in the MVP conversation — he's advocating him for defensive player of the year as well.
"The guy guards any position and does it every night," Wade said of James, who plays inside and on the perimeter at the offensive end. "I think he should be in the discussion for that."
Case in point, the way the Heat closed out the Atlanta Hawks on Wednesday.
There were times down the stretch where James would be matched up against Josh Smith — a strong forward, roughly James' size — and times when he found himself guarding speedy Hawks guard Jannero Pargo. That's been a trend for as long as anyone can remember with James, who has even had some late-game success when guarding reigning MVP Derrick Rose of Chicago, a point guard.
Asked if he'd rather win MVP again or defensive player of the year for the first time, James paused and thought for several seconds before answering.
"It would mean a lot to be considered defensive player of the year — a lot," James said. "I know how much I've put into it and I know I don't get the 15 rebounds a game, the 13 rebounds a game, I don't get the 3.5 blocks per game as well and I know that plays a big part in defensive player of the year. For me, I take just as much pride on defense as I do on offense. And that's every night."
Getting James to say even that much about any postseason award takes a bit of doing. Whenever Wade tries to engage James in MVP talk, it's usually a one-sided conversation.
Even among friends, James doesn't want to say much.
"He won't talk about it," Wade said. "I bring it up and he says, 'I don't really care.' But I want him to get it. I've never played with someone who's won MVP before. I want him to get it. I want to be at the press conference. I want to be there."
His wish might come true.
James and the Heat are 30-9 this season, and he entered Thursday ranked third in the NBA in scoring (27.7), ninth in steals (1.8) and 14th in assists (6.7). Using the formula known as PAR — points, assists and rebounds — James is having the best statistical season of anyone in the league, his nightly average of 42.8 better than Kevin Love (41.2), Kobe Bryant (39.3) and Kevin Durant (39.3).
But is James a lock to win? Wade isn't sure.
"It all depends who's looking and it all depends on what you're looking at," Wade said. "I think when you're looking at a complete player, it's not a race. When you're looking at highlights and points, then it's a race. ... Obviously, I believe he's MVP right now. He's a complete player. He does it every night. He deserves it."
Especially lately, that's true.
James has been doing things the league hasn't seen in decades — or maybe ever.
There have been two games this season in which a player has posted at least 35 points, 10 rebounds, six assists and no turnovers. James has both — on consecutive nights earlier this month, no less. According to STATS LLC, there have only been 11 other such games in the last 25 seasons. And when adding in his five steals to a 38-point, 11-rebound, six-assist, no-turnover night at Portland on March 1, that's a game that hadn't been duplicated since individual turnovers began being charted in 1977.
"For me, every time I step on the court I try to be the MVP for our team and that means doing it on both sides of the floor," James said. "I try not to take (any) possessions off. But when I hear the MVP talk, I really don't want anything to do with it. I kind of let that take care of itself. If I'm having an MVP season ... I don't have to make the case. I'll just let my game do the talking."
Still, James said he still finds it "humbling" to hear about where his stat lines rank in history.
"I always remind myself, less than 10 years ago I was just a little kid from Akron, I was 200 pounds, 215 pounds, 205 pounds, and struggling to get a meal and just playing the game for fun," James said. "I'm happy I'm able to do that now."
Follow Tim Reynolds on Twitter at http://www.twitter.com/ByTimReynolds


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By Ashley Redman
AFC Wimbledon boss Neal Ardley has signed Middlesbrough trainee striker Charlie Wyke on a one-month loan.
Wyke, 21, joined Middlesbrough in July 2011 but is yet to make a first team appearance.
Instead he spent three months on loan at non-League Kettering – scoring twice in 12 appearances – before being loaned to League One Hartlepool for most of last season.
However, with just two goals in 25 appearances, Wyke could not prevent the Pools relegation to League Two.
Ardley said: "We looked at Charlie last season and we have monitored him since then.
"He comes highly recommended from contacts that we've got in the north and we've watched Charlie play this season for the U21s."
He added: "Middlesbrough have been very good with us in this deal because it requires hardly any financial outlay. Charlie is an out-and-out striker and we can certainly have a look at him during January."
Since the 4-0 win over Portsmouth on November 23, the Dons have found goals hard to come scoring only three goals in seven games.
Leading scorer Michael Smith has returned to his parent club Charlton Athletic with his possible return unclear, while last season's top scorer Jack Midson is out of favour at the Cherry Red Record stadium.
Wyke is eligible for the Dons League Two trip to Wycombe Wanderers tomorrow.


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Brooklyn-based label Mishka presents their Spring 2011 Lookbook featuring musicians Neon Indian, Das Racist, CREEP, AraabMuzik, Stalley and others shot by Marley Kate in and around New York City. In the following two paragraphs, Mishka writes a valiant ode to Spring:
I think even those of us at Мишка who enjoy winter and cold weather have finally had enough of this shit. It's time for Spring. We had a taste of warm weather a few days back and it drove everyone giddy with pleasure before it was taken away from us the very next day. But our suffering is almost at an end and our happiness will be coming soon.
The pretty girls will emerge from their giant coats and layers of fabric like fashion conscious butterflies with good bangs and stupid tattoos. Young boys who think they're rebels are gonna be skating in packs and cackling at inside jokes. Our moment of great joy hasn't happened yet, but any day now we're going to wake up in Heaven.
The first delivery of the Мишка Spring 2011 collection is now online and includes both the Psychic TV and D.A.R.T. Collections.
More images follow after the click.


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Weather forecasts were weighing upon corn futures Monday morning. The latest weather models suggest relatively benign conditions over the Corn Belt during late July, which could prove much more helpful to pollination and boost harvest prospects later in the year. Conversely, the results of the weekly Export Inspections report easily exceeded expectations, which may have limited losses. September corn futures declined 8.25 cents to $5.3725/bushel by late Monday morning, while December slid 6.0 cents to $5.0325.
Old crop concerns complicated the soy outlook once again Monday morning. While the expiration of the July contract apparently undercut Corn Belt bids, the August bean and meal contracts looked cheap in comparison. That strength may also have mitigated the negative impact the latest weather forecasts exerted upon new crop prices. Oil futures continued suffering from weakness spilling over from the Asian vegetable oil markets. August soybean futures jumped 22.5 cents to $14.515/bushel in early Monday trading, while August soyoil edged down 0.01 cents to 46.21 cents/pound and August soymeal gained $7.5 to $450.4/ton.
Wheat futures followed corn lower in Monday morning trading. The fruits of the ongoing winter wheat harvest may be weighing upon the Chicago and Kansas City markets to some extent, but improving weather forecasts also appear to be encouraging bears. That seems particularly apt for Minneapolis prices, since conditions appear quite favorable for wheat. The Export Inspections result was no surprise. September CBOT wheat dove 10.0 cents to $6.71/bushel around midsession Monday, while September KCBT wheat dropped 8.75 cents to $6.9975 and September MGE futures sank 9.0 cents to $7.575.
The firm result of cash cattle trading last week reportedly sparked CME buying Monday. Cattle traders have been anticipating a seasonal second-half rally for some time, so the suggestion of renewed strength apparently prompted the bullish response. However, wholesale prices traditionally prove weak during the second half of many months, which may make forthcoming beef reports quite important. August cattle surged 0.85 cents to 122.70 cents/pound just before lunchtime Monday, while December climbed 0.55 cents to 128.85. August feeder futures leapt 2.30 cents to 152.42 cents/pound as corn prices fell, and November soared 2.17 cents to 157.90.
Hog futures rallied in concert with cattle Monday morning. Although seasonal prospects still seem rather grim, the cash cattle firmness, as well as late-Friday reports of cash hog gains, probably sparked renewed CME buying. The fact that the CME lean hog index remains substantially above second-half swine futures probably encouraged bulls as well. August hog futures advanced 0.95 cents to 95.85 cents/pound Monday morning, while December rose 0.40 cents to 81.75.


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EUREKA, CALIFORNIA -- Purchased vinyl set so pet hair wouldn't be a problem BUT the quality of the vinyl fabric was horrible. Started to crack and peel after 1 year of use. Structure is solid and holding up great but choose anything other than vinyl! Poorest grade vinyl I have ever seen!
DAYTONA BEACH, FLORIDA -- Just wanted to compliment the BEST SERVICE AND EMPLOYEE on our visit to the Ashley Furniture Store located in Daytona Beach, Florida!!! ''Throck" was by far the best salesman ever!!! He came up and introduced himself and pointed us in the directions needed for what we were looking for. He came to check on us every once in a while to see if we needed any extra help or questions... We didn't... but when we were ready to talk and decide... he was amazingly helpful and explained the products for us to think about!!! He was not pushy as some sales people can be. He was friendly and very helpful from the minute we meet him!
If you ever go to Ashley's in Daytona... I recommend you ask for "THROCK". He's down to earth and very knowledgeable about the furniture. Thank you "Throck" for a nice afternoon. Can't wait for my new living room to arrive!
FRESNO, CALIFORNIA -- I had some furniture I bought 2nd hand from Ashley and really liked it so I decided to buy some office furniture but when I went to the showroom I fell in love with a living room set which consists of love seat, electric recliner and a manual recliner and also a cocktail table that open up and has storage and a media end table that lifts up and stores our electronics to charge them. Anyway after 4 months the media end table started getting more hard to open and wouldn't close right. Then last week it bent at the hinge and pulled away from the wood (I heard the cracking sound) so realizing that it was just a defective table I called Ashley and submitted my pictures, etc.
After a week I hear NOTHING so I called them back and they say, "It is normal wear & tear not a manufacturer's defect." WHAT??? This stupid table literally fell apart in less than 5 mos. So they are going to do a "courtesy call to fix it" after they order the parts which will take about another month.
So the week I waited to hear something about my claim was just wasted time. So NOT going to buy the office furniture now! They don't want to admit any fault at all. I can just imagine how this "fix" is going to turn out. Over $2000 spent there being my first time and now my last time ever buying from them. I never would have imagined the way the sales people bragged on their "quality" furniture and their warranty that I would be treated like this by them.
8823 PULASKI HWY, MARYLAND -- I bought living room furniture on 1-4-11.. it took 3 weeks for delivery. I was so happy to get it, after the man came in and set it all up for me, I started to clean it up the room and I noticed all the damage on ALL the tables. (coffee table and two end tables) And also the sofa, I called the store immediately.. they said somebody would call me back within the week. I waited and never heard from them, so I once again called the store. I've been hearing the same thing for about 8 weeks now. "We will call you by Friday."
So now what do I do? My husband is disabled and we have saved for a long time to buy new furniture.. I am so pissed off that this problem has been put on hold for so long now. Just yesterday the sales person who sold us the set called and said someone will be here this week but he could not give me a time. He did say "it would be some time on Wednesday." I guess we will see (ONCE AGAIN).
The tables are not repairable, there are gouge marks in the wood and nails coming through the side of our sofa in a few spots in which my infant grandson has bumped into or leaned up against and has gotten hurt. We should not have to be scared of the children in our home getting hurt on brand new furniture. The lampshades are bent and broken. They also say they can repair them as well, I don't think so! I want brand new lampshades and tables.
When I went to the store with my lampshades the salesperson said "We can give you the floor model lampshades." I PAID for brand new lampshades to be sent to my home, not the ones that are in the store for people to look at, test out, and use. I did not buy second hand furniture and will not have someone fix something I paid hard earned money for.
I want new lampshades and they did eventually call me back and say I will get brand new ones. But when? On the rate we're going, I never know when I am going to get new lampshades, tables, or a sofa. Or if it will even happen. Ashley Furniture's Policy is that they will immediately come out to fix/repair/or replace any damaged furniture.
In this case I DESERVE a replacement of brand new furniture since all of these damages were done before I even received any of the merchandise. Me and my husband have experienced mental anguish because of this wrongdoing. And Ashley Furniture have been quite stoic during this whole process and its inexcusable and all I am asking for is restitution or the furniture replaced in a timely matter. And the workers when I call do nothing but give me idiosyncratic responses to my concerns. All I want as the consumer is what I put my hard money out for and in a timely matter.
HUMBLE, TEXAS -- My husband, myself, and two family members went into Ashley Furniture on 07/05/09. My husband and I purchased a living room set, sofa, loveseat, recliner, 3 end tables, sofa table, coffee table. I had moved several different coffee tables in front of the sofa set to see if I liked it with the set. I was unsure of the final one so ** told me that I could have it delivered and if I did not like it no problem, I could send it back. I was paying cash so I ask her how long would it take for a refund since it was cash, she stated that refunds were processed on Thursdays and checks cut on Friday. We were Sunday so I figured I had time to figure it all out since furniture was being delivered on Monday.
Furniture arrived on Monday as promised. However, I was talked in to paying the 99.00 delivery fee because the delivery people would come in, assembly all tables for us. We do not live far from the distribution center, approx. 30 minutes. Since things had to be put together, we paid for the delivery. Well, when the furniture arrived, it was not in boxes, not wrapped with blankets or plastic, just simply stacked on top of each other in the truck with no protection at all. The tables were not in boxes and no assembly was required. Two of the tables were damaged.
After the movers left, my husband and I started arranging the furniture. The quality was horrible. The living room set was not the same quality as what was on their showroom floor. Remember I lifted and moved these coffee table and end tables in the store. They were nowhere near the quality, much lighter. I was shocked. I called the next day to talk to someone regarding some of these issues but the person we needed to speak to was off.
To make a long story short, after one of the managers hanging up on my husband, we instructed Ashley to pick up all of the furniture we would go somewhere else to buy our furniture. We were told it would take a week before someone could pick it up. Then our refund of 3300.00 would not be processed until that following Thursday. My husband and I went up to the store on 07/16/09 to make sure the refund was being processed correctly, because they conveniently kept forgetting about the Montage for 298.00 we paid for - an insurance on the furniture.
Once we got that all straight we were told to expect our check in 7-10 days. Well, today, 07/29/09, I call to check on refund. I was told that the check was put in the mail on 07/20/09. Now mind you, they were very quick to let us know it would take every bit of the 7-10 days. But now, they are trying to say that they mailed it out 2 days after it was processed. Needless to say, no check has arrived here. Trust me, I have been at my mailbox everyday waiting on our 3300.00 refund. I have requested that they stop payment on the check (I know it was never issued yet, nor mailed to my home).
I told them to send it to their store in Humble and I will pick it up, I was not going to play these games that it got lost in the mail again. I should have it by Friday but we will see. I will never set foot in their stores again. I have also talked to some delivery people that used to work for Ashley and Fingers - they have confirmed that the quality you receive at home is not what is on their showroom floors. I personally can't believe that they left that furniture in my home for over a week being used, then are going to take it back to their warehouse and sell it to someone else as brand new.
Makes me wonder since it was not wrapped nor covered when it was delivered to me - where it was before I got it. We went to Rooms To Go - got much better quality of furniture for a better price. Delivery was great - everything was wrapped - and the guys were very courteous. MY ADVISE - STAY AWAY FROM ASHLEY FURNITURE. I will update when and if I get my refund check like promised.
CHICO, CALIFORNIA -- WORD OF WARNING!! I have to share my TERRIBLE experience with others so that they do not make the same mistake I did by patronizing Ashley Furniture. On February 18th I purchased a living room set (Sofa, love seat and 3 tables). At the time of purchase they informed me that it would be 6-8 weeks for delivery (something they assured me was an industry standard).
I decided to live with the 6-8 week delivery timeline even though that would mean I would be living in my new apartment for a month without any living room furniture but I figured I could tough it out. At the time of the purchase the sales associate forgot to notify me that the set I had purchased was on back order. At 7 weeks I called to store to inquire about my purchase and the sales associate informed me that my order had been shipped and would be in the Ashley warehouse in my town on that Friday 4/10. He said that they deliver 7 days a week and they would call me Monday to set up a delivery time.
Monday rolled around and I didn't get a call so I called Monday evening, no answer so I left a message. Tuesday comes and goes no call. Wednesday I call again no answer I leave a message. In the meantime I decide to physically go to the store to see how busy they are that they can't answer the phone or return a call. Not one customer (as is usually the case in Chico) was insight but I saw at least half a dozen sales associate (no one acknowledged me).
When I went to explain my situation to the woman working at the sales desk she had no apologetic words for me. All she did as ask me my name, look up my order and inform me that my order was still on back order after 8 weeks of them having my money clear and free. She didn't apologize for the lack of communication of the sales staff, to inform me of the back order or the fact that their sales staff was so poorly trained that they were telling me that my order should already be in. She offered to leave my information for the owner to check on and call me to let me know when I could be expecting my order.
He called me a couple days later and I explained my regret for doing business with his company as well that I was going to be telling others of my negative experience. All he offered was a sorry and that it was going to be another 3-4 weeks before they would have my furniture to me. So Ashley Furniture will have my money free and clear for over 12 weeks before I hopefully see my furniture, but I am not holding my breath. In addition I am still paying $85.00 in delivery fees. It has been so long since I have ordered the couches and tables I don't even remember what they look or feel like. Today is 4-25 and it will still be another 2 weeks before I see my furniture.
My advice go to a local furniture store they only take a percentage like 20-40 percent upfront and you pay on delivery (many offer free delivery). This is a huge motivator from them to get you your furniture because they don't get paid until you get your items. I wish I would have thought about paying a little more for the cost of the couches, I would have received better customer service and I would actually have my couches by now.
In economic times like this you would think that companies would focus on customer service to retain the customers they have and to create good buzz about them. But I guess Ashley doesn't care. Another frustration: the website doesn't offer an corporate address to write a formal letter or a customer service/complaint line; for a big corporation that is very unprofessional.
PEARLAND, TEXAS -- As of this date 03-13-2011… I am having a terrible experience after making a purchase at ASHLEY Furniture store in Pearland. My daughter applied for credit to purchase the living room furniture that was on sale at the Pearland Store but her credit was denied because lack of credit. It was the last day of the sale so I decided to purchase the furniture for her and charged the entire purchase to my credit card.
I never asked for credit nor did I pay for half and bill me later. To do something such as that you have to apply for credit I never did.. I gave them my card and said "put it all on my card." As an appreciation for purchasing my furniture and paying for it the store manager gave my daughter a plaque that was on sale that she wanted for her room. I then picked up my own furniture to avoid delivery charges and everything was great.
Here comes my bad experience... It took the clerk forever to input the items on the computer. She told me she was having problems because the computer kept going down... I said "do what you have to but make sure my invoice is marked paid in full..." She said "it did" and she showed me the paid in full on the invoice. Seems that the invoice was divided into 2. One with the items I was carrying out... lamps, rug, and the plaque very clear said paid in full and then the other invoice so that I could pick up the furniture... Never in my wildest dream would I imagine that I would run into any problem.
I picked up my furniture brought it home but the sofa had a break in it which we didn't catch because they were wrapped up and we did not unwrap it because it looked like it might sprinkle on the way home... It did not so we were safe. I called and since I picked it up I had to go back and exchange....Bummer!!!! So I did and everything was fine... I was happy with my purchase. UNTIL approximately six months later I started receiving mail from ASHLEY. Since I was not interesting in buying anything else, my response is to trash it as junk mail. Later I get another so I decided to open it to see maybe there was a coupon or something...
It read SECOND NOTICE. Not me but my daughter who was denied credit had a balance due. NOTE she never bought anything because her credit was denied. Assuming this letter was for me because my daughter and I have the same name spelled a little different, I called. I was told I had a balance I said "NO!!! I PAID IN FULL!!!!"…The person that answered said he would look into it and get back with me... THAT NEVER HAPPENED.... I now have a THIRD NOTICE!!!! I called and complained again. This time I think a supervisor gets involved... Does it get cleared up...NOT YET, still complaining...
My next step is to report this incident to the BBB because I refuse to get charged twice and then get threaten that they will pick up my furniture for the mistakes they make yet my credit card got charged for the SALE purchase price. And by the way my credit card balance is now -0- because I paid that off to avoid interest charges... I would be more than happy to return this furniture but first I want my money back up front including my time and gas for picking it up twice and then for all the trouble they have caused me trying to resolve this matter which has not happened yet.
IF YOU EVER DECIDE TO BUY SOMETHING FROM ASHLEY, MAKE SURE THEY DO NOT HAVE YOUR NAME OR ADDRESS WHEN YOU PAY FOR IT CASH. Unless you're willing to have the same experience I am dealing with now.
KENOSHA -- Okay first time poster. My wife and I were in the market for a new living room suite. So I spent some time visiting local furniture shops as well as online. We narrowed our search to Ashley Furniture (Kenosha). After reading negative reviews here we were understandably hesitant.
After visiting their showroom a few times however we just found we liked what they had to offer (and the price) over what other local stores were offering. So we crossed our fingers last week and went in and selected our furniture. IT helped that we learned a neighbor had bought his furniture at Ashley last year and reported he was happy with his purchase. Still I'm nervous and hoping I didn't screw to pooch on this one. ;) So, I thought I'd post my experiences here as the process unfolds and update things until finally delivery. Going into this thing skeptical but hoping it all works out.
We were given a split shipping option. The Sofa/Loveseat to be delivered March 5th. And the recliner we chose on March 29th (which I opted to pick up since we live about twenty miles away). Of course I took those delivery dates with a grain of salt. When we left the store I told the wife it would probably be early April before we saw the furniture. Which is fine with us -- we just prepared ourselves for a late delivery based on what we've read here.
Well this morning surprise surprise. They called to say the Recliner was in and they'd be delivering it along with the sofa/loveseat on Wed. (March 5th). I was floored. Not only is the Recliner in early (hoping it's not somebody else's returned item) but delivery is right on schedule (so far). Course we're probably 20 to 30 miles from where they build the furniture but I figured there'd be a queue/line and that that wouldn't really save much time in the process.
The salesman we spoke with at Ashley DID tell us they'd gotten a better handle on shipping/construction and were working toward a 1 week turn around time. So I give him marks for being true to his word. Course they still have to actually show up on Wed. But so far so good. I'll update after the furniture arrives and let you know if it arrives undamaged and is up to spec. I'm a bit worried about that recliner suddenly popping up three weeks ahead of schedule.
I will say I was impressed with the Kenosha store in general. The salesman who latched onto us as we walked in asked us what we were looking for. We told him and he led us to the area where the furniture we were interested in was arranged. Then he politely excused himself and said he'd leave us to decide what we liked and would be back.
No high pressure or breathing down our necks.
By the time he had returned we had a list of questions which he answered. In fact he steered us away from the first set we had our eyes on when he learned we had kids/pets to another set which was actually a bit cheaper (but more stain resistant fabric).
Not sure what other Ashley stores are like but we really appreciated being able to browse and talk amongst ourselves without a salesman in tow. That was my biggest worry going in -- that I'd be pressured to upgrade to this or buy this package or that. Again I'll follow up on Wed after we accept delivery (knock wood).
A few things: I knew of the 30% restocking fee after reading of complaints here. And nobody bothered mentioning that when I made my purchase. I DID catch it on the little folder they give you to put your paperwork in and it's in small type. I think they could point that fact out as a general policy -- just to help avoid surprises. I also checked the Better Business Bureau on this store in particular before going in.
According them the store has had 131 complaints in the last 36 months -- 90% of those 'resolved' with the remainder 'administratively closed' for whatever reason. That breaks down to 3 complaints a month. Which doesn't seem too bad for a store apparently doing so much business. Bottom line they were in good standing with the BBB so I took that into account. UPDATE: See my update in the comments. Furniture was delivered as promised on the 5th. So far so good.
SEWELL, NEW JERSEY -- My husband and I purchased a $2,000 living room set 3 years ago. The fabric on the cushions is wearing thin and now has holes in it. The warranty does not cover this repair. Customer Service was friendly and apologetic but said that's what happens with "wear and tear." After 3 years though? I would not buy furniture from there again as it is obviously low quality and they know it's low quality.
BRANDON, FLORIDA -- Spent $2,500 on 2 Sofas, 1 Chair & Ottoman and it is junk. Only my husband and myself in the household so not sat on very often. Bought warranty and they wouldn't honor the problems with it. All pieces except the ottoman have peeled like a orange. When we bought this furniture we expected good quality for the money we paid. We were actually told the furniture was a good leather. Ha, Ha, Ha!!!


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The Philadelphia Phillies' new manager is in place just in time for Jewish Heritage Night on Aug. 20.
Just days before Jewish Heritage Night at Citizens Bank Park, Phillies general manager Ruben Amaro, Jr. announced that the team had decided to fire longtime manager Charlie Manuel.
Third base coach Ryne Sandberg will manage the team for the remainder of the season.
Manuel, who had managed the Phillies since 2005, led the team to World Series appearances in 2008 and 2009, winning the championship in 2008. He compiled an overall record with the team of 780-636.
The Phillies sit in fourth place in the National League East with a record of 53-67 and are headed for their second straight losing season.
Sandberg spent the 2011 and 2012 seasons managing the Phillies' top minor-league affiliate, the Lehigh Valley IronPigs, before becoming the Phillies' third base coach at the beginning of the 2013 season.
Amaro, who is a member of the Philadelphia Jewish Sports Hall of Fame, said during the Aug. 16 news conference, "I didn't see any reason to drag it out and have him [Manuel] sit through the next 40 games."
Amaro said he was optimistic about the Phillies' future. "I do believe that we're going to get things right and get things back to where they need to be. The core players can help us get back to being a championship-caliber club."
Amaro and Manuel both said the decision was made two days before the announcement and that the manager knew the Aug. 14 against Atlanta would be his last.


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Time change for the Frank Thomas autograph session
Due to unexpected family circumstances, the time for the Frank Thomas autograph session on Saturday at SoxFest has changed. The Hall of Fame slugger will now be signing at 1 p.m. on Saturday.
The most up-to-date SoxFest scheduled can be found at whitesox.com/SoxFest. SoxFest 2014 is sponsored by Miller Lite, Pepsi, Comcast SportsNet and WGN-TV and will be held Friday, January 24, Saturday, January 25 and Sunday, January 26.
Passes for SoxFest 2014 remain available. Saturday passes are $50, while a limited number of two-day passes (good for admission on both Saturday and Sunday) are available for $70 and Sunday-only passes are $40.


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Two new players — Claude Giroux of the Philadelphia Flyers and Henrik Zetterberg of the Detroit Red Wings — are officially wearing the 'C.'
In what were essentially foregone conclusions for both franchises, Zetterberg was introduced at an afternoon press conference and Giroux through an evening news release.
Zetterberg replaces Nicklas Lidstrom, one of the greatest players in the history of the game and the first European to captain a Cup-winning team. Lidstrom, in turn, replaced Steve Yzerman, on the game's universal shortlist of best leaders. Only those two have held the position since 1986, and the team has won four Cups in that stretch.
So, no pressure.
"Just playing with Nick for my whole career here, just to see how he prepares himself, how he handled himself on and off the ice, and just lead by example and that's what he did," Zetterberg said Tuesday at the announcement, according the Red Wings' website. "I played with many good leaders since I got here and not just Stevie and Nick. There was (Kris) Draper, (Chris) Chelios, there are so many guys that I played with that you learn from. So you try to take bits and pieces from all the guys that you play with and they really formed the player who I am now."
Mike Babcock has coached all of those guys, so the similarities aren't lost on him.
"I guess the things that jump to mind for me is fierce, fierce competitors," he said. "(They're) great, great people and guys who put the team first and can speak for the team and treat their teammates right. So those are three things that I would say right off the top of my head."
Zetterberg, 32, won the Conn Smythe in 2008 after scoring a career-high 43 goals, though his offensive production has tailed off in the years since. In 2011-12, he had 67 points.
Giroux, meanwhile, takes over for Chris Pronger, whose career is likely over because of post-concussion syndrome. Pronger missed most of last season and remains on long-term injured reserve, but his retirement is little more than a formality at this point. He, in turn, replaced Mike Richards, who was traded to the LA Kings in the summer of 2011.
Giroux, an MVP candidate who turned 25 earlier this month, is the 19th captain in Flyers history. Because of his age, the Flyers' history of turnover in the spot and Pronger's status, he's in a bit of a different situation than Zetterberg.
"It's not going to change my game or the way I act on the ice or off the ice," Giroux said Tuesday afternoon at training camp according to CSNPhilly.com. "We have a lot of leaders in this locker room, and a lot of veterans."
2011-12 was a breakout season for Giroux; he was third in the NHL scoring race with 93 points and led the Flyers to a first-round playoff win over rivals Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin and the Pittsburgh Penguins.
"Every day he practices and plays games like he wants to make a difference," head coach Peter Laviolette said in a team release. After watching him grow for three-plus years, it's now time for Claude to become the captain of this team."
GM Paul Holmgren called him "the undisputed leader of this team."
The announcements leave only the Florida Panthers, Columbus Blue Jackets and New Jersey Devils without a captain. Florida's last captain was Bryan McCabe in 2011. Columbus and New Jersey lost Rick Nash (trade with the Rangers) and Zach Parise (free agency, Wild), respectively, in the offseason.


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What is it?
The SecurePrint Start Fingerprint Security System is a car security device which allows engine starting and vehicle access to be controlled by fingerprint identification.
The Verdict: The SecurePrint Start Start At Once Fingerprint Car Security System is a great solution for individuals or companies looking to add additional security to their vehicles. Once installed, the system seamlessly integrates and effectively protects a vehicle from theft. However, the system is not designed to replace components already installed if the vehicle for starting.
The SecurePrint Start system is available now at the MP3Car store
What's in the box:
The SecurePrint Start system consists of the main brain box, a fingerprint scanner, a dialpad, 2 wiring harnesses, a voice-command speaker, an instruction manual, and a wiring guide.
The SecurePrint Start Fingerprint Car Security system may just be the answer for someone looking for added security for their vehicle. The system clearly goes above the standard OEM car security featured in most cars today. With the power of fingerprint technology, the SecurePrint Start system deters anyone from stealing your vehicle without your clear consent.
I was initially surprised at the ease of installation. Most self-installed security systems come with hardly legible, confusing instructions and wiring diagrams. The SecurePrint Start system however is pretty much a breeze to install. The wires are clearly numbered, and the wiring guide uses the numbers to show where each wire needs to go. There is some factory wiring you need to cut, specifically the wiring to the starter, fuel pump, and vehicle ECU, but this is standard fare with do-it-all systems. You certainly don�t have to have a Master�s degree in electronic engineering to install the unit into the vehicle. The configuration of the system once installed is easy as well. The system uses the combination of the fingerprint scanner and the accessory dial-pad to allow users to enter new fingerprints. Each entry on the dial-pad is greeted with a loud and clear (yet somewhat disturbing) voice confirmation through the systems included speaker. This system is infinitely more efficient than the trial-and-error or dip-switch type systems I�ve installed in the past. At an estimated guess, I would say it would take the average DIY installer no more than 2 hours to wire and configure the entire system. A video showing the ease of fingerprint enrollment can be found below.
Once installed, the system is activated as simple as pressing your enrolled finger into the fingerprint scanner. In my testing it took less than a second for my finger to be identified and the vehicle to start. Unfortunately, it takes far longer for me to reach into my pocket, take out my key, and turn the ignition. Yes, you still need to do this in order for the SecurePrint Start system to activate. A friend had mentioned perhaps tucking the ignition cylinder away with the key in it, but this is not feasible because the unit depends on removing the key to turn the engine off. Once the vehicle is started the SecurePrint Start system is completely passive. You will still need to use your keyfob for vehicle entry, so people looking for an easier alternative than the factory systems today should look elsewhere.
The SecurePrint Start system allows up to 9 different enrolled fingerprints and 3 different categories for users, so multiple drivers, families and fleet vehicles can all enjoy the benefits of added security.
The Positive:
� Added peace of mind from an additional layer of security
� Easy to install
� Voice guided configuration
� Limits access to vehicle and Car PCs
� Cuts power to fuel pump, starter motor, and ECU
� Fingerprint scanner easily molds into most vehicle dashboards
The Negative:
� Does not replace vehicles factory ignition
� Length of proprietary cables limits installation flexibility
The Verdict:
The SecurePrint Start Start At Once Fingerprint Car Security System is a great solution for individuals or companies looking to add additional security to their vehicles. Once installed, the system seamlessly integrates and effectively protects a vehicle from theft. However, the system is not designed to replace components already installed if the vehicle for starting.


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A top-5 showdown figures to shake, rattle and roll the venerable Coliseum on Saturday night. But can the Trojans force the Buckeyes into submission in college football's biggest regular season game in 2008?
The No. 1-ranked USC Trojans open their 2008 home schedule this Saturday, September 13, against the No. 5 Ohio State Buckeyes of the Big 10 Conference at 5 p.m. (PDT) in the sold-out Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum and in front of a national ABC television audience. It is the 22nd meeting between the two schools (but first since 1990), with USC holding an 11-9-1 edge against the Buckeyes in a storied series. The Trojans have won the past five meetings, dating to the 1975 Rose Bowl.
USC holds a 4-3 edge on Ohio State in Rose Bowl games and is 4-2-1 against the Buckeyes in the Coliseum. Overall, USC is 65-27-2 against Big 10 competition, including a seven-game winning streak. Meanwhile, the Buckeyes are 50-23-2 against Pac-10 opposition.
The Trojans enjoyed a bye last weekend after opening the season with a crushing 52-7 victory at Virginia. Mark Sanchez's first appearance as a full-time starter was impressive as he threw for 338 yards and three touchdowns, while the Trojan defense limited the Cavaliers to just 187 total yards (32 rushing). Meanwhile, Ohio State survived a stronger-than-expected challenge from Ohio University a week ago, holding off the Bobcats, 26-14. While Ohio State looked sluggish on offense, holding out stud running back Chris Wells — who injured his foot in the Buckeyes' season-opening 43-0 win over Youngstown State, and looking ahead to this weekend's much-hyped match-up were likely to blame. Wells is expected back at 100 percent this weekend and so is Ohio State's focus.
Trojan Coach Pete Carroll is in his eighth season at USC (77-14) having led the Trojans to six consecutive Pac-10 crowns, 11-win seasons, BCS bowl appearances and top-4 national finishes, including two national championships. Meanwhile, Ohio State headman Jim Tressel is also in his eighth season at the helm in Columbus, holding a 75-16 mark at the school (210-73-2 overall including his 15 seasons at Youngstown State from 1986-2000). Tressel has guided the Buckeyes to consecutive BCS championship game appearances, losing to Florida and LSU following the past two seasons. Also under Tressel, the 2002 Buckeyes upset Miami, 31-24, in the 2003 Fiesta Bowl to win the national championship. That was Ohio State's last appearance against a No. 1-ranked opponent.
The Trojans' 2008 home opener is the biggest (and most hyped) game played in the Coliseum since a pair of 1-2 match-ups in the 1980s (1981 vs. Oklahoma and 1988 vs. Notre Dame). USC has won its past 10 home openers, but it hasn't faced an opponent as talented or as motivated as the Buckeyes during that stretch.
While USC hopes to build on its impressive cross-country win in the opener, Ohio State has been installed as a double-digit underdog in a game that many prognosticators were picking them to win just a couple weeks ago. Combine that disrespect with the fact that the Buckeyes have been hammered in the past two BCS title games, and you can be sure Ohio State will arrive with a pretty big chip on its shoulder come Saturday.
Ohio State Offense
Offensive coordinator Jim Bollmann could not have been too thrilled with his group after last week's lackadaisical effort against Ohio. Just 272 yards of total offense against a team many Mid-American Conference (MAC) observers would grudgingly call ninth best in the conference is not impressive, even considering the loss of Beanie Wells. Much like in the days of yore, the Buckeyes remain a smash-mouth offensive team, focused on beating you up with their running attack and a patient, low-risk passing attack that will look to stick you with the home-run ball if the opportunity presents itself.
With a massive and experienced offensive line, a strong set of running backs and receivers and an experienced game manager in senior quarterback Todd Boeckman, more is expected from the Ohio State offense than what it showed last week. Boeckman, completed 64.5 percent of his passes a year ago when he was first-team All-Big-10, tossing 28 TDs and 14 interceptions. He's expected to manage the game and utilize his receivers and tight ends to control the clock.
It's a high-percentage passing attack – Boeckman's completed two-thirds of his passes in two games in 2008 – that does like to throw the deep ball once it's lulled you to sleep with runs and short passes. Boeckman has shown the proclivity to throw interceptions in the past against speedy, aggressive defenses. The wildcard here is true freshman sensation Terrelle Pryor, touted as a run/pass threat who is more of a straight-out runner so far in his short Buckeye career.
While Pryor had a couple of impressive runs against Youngstown State, Tressel used him sparingly in a tighter game against Ohio. Expect to see Pryor in and out of the game early as a change-up, but if the game stays tight throughout, Pryor's opportunities may shrink thanks to Tressel's close-to-the-vest M.O.
Senior Brian Robiskie headlines a solid group of receivers for Boeckman and Pryor to connect with. At 6'3", Robiskie is a sizeable target and a favorite deep threat. He, like much of the Buckeye passing attack, is off to a slow start in 2008, but he averaged 17 yards per catch a year ago and scored 11 of his 17 career touchdowns. On the other side, junior Brian Hartline is another solid target, who averages 14 yards per catch in his career.
Fellow junior Ray Small (the Buckeyes' resident expert on "class"), who has been in and out of Tressel's doghouse since arriving in Columbus, is a flashy talent who leads Ohio State with eight grabs on the young season. Smallish sophomore Dane Sanzenbacher has performed well as the fourth wideout. At tight end, fifth-year senior Rory Nicol and junior Jake Ballard split time. Both are imposing blockers, but have combined for just three catches so far in 2008.
While the Buckeyes did end up rushing for 162 yards in Beanie Wells' absence last week, his return would transform Ohio State's attack. The bulky yet fast junior rushed for 1,609 yards and 15 TDs a year ago. And he was off to a quick start in 2008, with 13 carries for 111 yards in the opener before going down with a foot injury. He's expected to be back at near 100 percent Saturday.
In his stead, shifty senior Maurice Wells (no relation), sophomore Brandon Saine and redshirt freshman Dan Herron are all solid options. Saine, who ran a 10.38 in the 100-meters as a senior in high school, has been held back by a hamstring injury. However, none of OSU's backs carry the "it" factor of Beanie Wells, who is a true difference-maker for the Buckeye attack. Without him, it would be a very rough go for Ohio State.
Again, up front, the Buckeyes are loaded with experience and talent. Led by senior left tackle Alex Boone, an Outland Trophy watch-lister, Ohio State's front five average 6'5" and 316 lbs. – a very traditional, and massive, Big-10 line. Fellow seniors Steve Rehring and Ben Person start at the guard spots, while junior Jim Cordle handles the center duties. The greenest of the group is sophomore right tackle Bryant Browning – but he also may have the greatest upside of the group.
Ohio State Defense
Co-defensive coordinators Jim Heacock and Luke Fickell may have even more returning talent than the Buckeye offense. Running out of a 4-3 set, and featuring a bevy of stars in the back seven, the Buckeye defensive personnel almost mirrors USC's stellar defense. Through two games, the Buckeyes have forced six turnovers and forced 12 three-and-out possessions, something they did nearly 50 percent of the time in 2007. The leaders include All-America and Butkus Award-winning middle linebacker James Laurinaitis, senior strong-side linebacker Marcus Freeman and senior cornerback Malcolm Jenkins.
Up front, Ohio State had to replace star defensive end Vernon Gholston, who set a Buckeye record with 14 sacks in 2007. However, returning starter Cameron Heyward is joined by now-healthy junior Lawrence Wilson, a major sack threat in his own right, who missed 2007 after breaking his leg in the season opener.
In the middle, senior Nader Abdallah and junior Todd Denlinger are solid run stuffers. Tressel's staff wanted to see them get a better push on the pass rush in 2008, however. Sophomore Dexter Larimore, who's been in the rotation the first two games, has provided a little better pass-rush option in that area thus far.
In Laurinaitis and Freeman, the Buckeyes feature the best linebacker duo this side of Rey Maualuga and Brian Cushing. The pair has combined for 455 tackles, 30 tackles for loss, 11.5 sacks and 10 interceptions in their Buckeye careers (40 games for Laurinaitis and 41 for Freeman). On the weak side, sophomore Ross Homan is in his first year as a starter, but has played well, notching 10 tackles in two games. Sophomore Tyler Moeller has also seen some time behind Freeman, and has picked up seven stops.
In the secondary, second-team All-America Jenkins has great size and speed at corner He has nine career interceptions and forces many teams to look away from whatever side he lines up on. Donald Washington returns to the Buckeye lineup this week after a two-game suspension. He's a returning starter, but is likely to split time with sophomore Chimdi Chekwa, who has played well in his stead. Senior Shaun Lane is another option at corner. Juniors Kurt Coleman (strong safety) and Anderson Russell (free safety) are more-than-serviceable returning starters in the middle of the secondary. Sophomore Jermale Hines has also seen time.
Ohio State Special Teams
More experience is available on special teams, as senior kicker Ryan Pretorius, junior kickoff specialist Aaron Pettrey and senior punter A.J. Trapasso all return. Pretorius is six-of-seven on field goals so far in 2008, while Pettrey nailed a 54-yard attempt against Youngstown State. Trapasso has averaged 40 yards per boot so far. Small is the leading punt returner, and he had a 69-yard TD against Ohio. Reserve running backs Herron, Saine and Maurice Wells are handling the kick return duties, but Ohio State has struggled to improve what was one of their few problem areas a year ago.
USC Offensive Gameplan
After an unexpected breakout performance in the season opener against Virginia, what should fans expect of the Trojans' reinvigorated offense against a much stiffer test from the Buckeyes? Offensive coordinator Steve Sarkisian highlighted the Trojans large cast of playmakers in week one, with Sanchez finding eight different receivers (10 Trojans caught passes overall) and five of USC's tailbacks finding the end zone. Expect the Trojans to, again, try to involve all of their skill players in the game plan.
However, with Sanchez likely to face a much more stout pass rush and solid cornerbacks against Ohio State, it's interesting to note that where USC may test the Buckeye defense the most is in their linebacker corps. Ohio State will definitely push to get a pass rush on Sanchez, but the Buckeyes have notched just three sacks so far in 2008. Expect them to look for different ways to harass Sanchez with blitzing – something Virginia didn't (or wasn't able to) do – and force him into early mistakes.
However, both Florida and LSU, in the past two BCS title games, have used the speed of their skill players to put the Ohio State linebackers (and safeties, for that matter) into space, where the physicality of Laurinaitis and Freeman is less of a concern, and their ability to slow down speedy playmakers has been questionable. Even Illinois had success in this department in its upset of Ohio State last November, though it was the running ability of Illini QB Juice Williams that helped keep the Buckeyes off balance.
I suspect that USC will use a lot of one-back, three-to-four wide looks in this game, with Sanchez expected to get rid of the ball quickly. At the same time, these sets would also allow USC's bevy of tailbacks — especially C.J. Gable, Joe McKnight and Stafon Johnson — room to operate on the edges and in misdirection.
USC Defensive Gameplan
On the other side of the ball, it's truly difficult to find a way for Ohio State's offense to successfully attack the USC defense, especially if Beanie Wells is not at top speed. The Trojan defense has repeatedly shown its strength against offenses similar in style and talent to Ohio State's offense. While the Buckeyes have unquestionable talent and weapons at skill positions, they do not present the scheme or speed to press USC's defense consistently.
This could change if Tressel utilizes Pryor extensively and he doesn't perform like a true freshman in his third game. An unexpected performance by Pryor with his legs could open up the USC defense to struggles against the Buckeyes' traditional power running attack, as well as some success with downfield passing. Failing that, if Ohio State lines up and tries to impose their will on the USC defense, I don't see them having a lot of success. USC's scheme is designed to take away the run first, and teams that have had success running the ball on the Trojans have had much more creative schemes than the Buckeyes' traditional offense.
The Trojan defensive line will have to be a force in this game — and they can't do it by getting into a wrestling match with the Buckeyes' big line. Ohio State wants to be physical up front, but Fili Moala, Averell Spicer and company would be best served using their quickness to play gaps rather than trying to overpower the Buckeye line. If they are successful, it will make life easier for Maualuga, Cushing and Co. Expect Boeckman to face blitz packages similar to what USC ran against Michigan and Illinois in recent Rose Bowl triumphs. Clay Matthews could have another big day in his LB/DE role.
The Pick
It's the biggest game in the Coliseum in 20 years. Tickets are running up to $5,000 a pop from some brokers and Web sites. The atmosphere on campus and in Exposition Park will be electric leading up to kickoff. And it is all deserved – the Trojans and Buckeyes have combined for three national championships and five BCS title game appearances this decade. Each school has won 35 of its past 40 games. And the tradition of the rivalry, dating back to those Rose Bowl match-ups in days of yore, is unimpeachable.
Will the game live up to the hype and expectations? Well, that will be decided by two things: the size of the chip on Ohio State's shoulder, and how many mistakes USC makes. While many, including Las Vegas' line-setters, are expecting a Trojan trouncing, Ohio State has heard the doubters for going on two years now. Their shellacking at the hands of Florida in January 2007, and their whipping by LSU nine months ago (in a game that Ohio State actually performed better in than a year before) have left the Bucks open to criticism from every corner of the football world. This is their latest opportunity to put that criticism to lie and make a major statement on the biggest regular season stage of 2008.
On the other hand, it's hard to get away from the idea that USC's scheme and athleticism on both sides of the ball will eventually be too much for the Buckeyes to overcome on Saturday night. While the Trojan offense's performance in the opener at Virginia was eye opening, they will have their hands more than full with the powerful and experienced Ohio State defense. But, unless that Buckeye defense can force an outsized number of USC turnovers that lead to Ohio State points, I don't see a way that Tressel's team can put up more than 14-17 points against the Trojan defense.
In the end, it says here that, while the gunslinger in Sanchez may result in a couple of errors during the course of the game, the Trojan defense will bottle up Boeckman and Beanie — and eventually, USC's offensive weapons will hit Ohio State where it hurts.
USC 27, Ohio State 14
Tom Haire has been writing for USCFootball.com for eight years. He is the editor of a monthly trade magazine in the advertising industry. He grew up watching USC dominate the Pac-10 and the Rose Bowl and ended up a Trojan journalism school alum ('94). He's traveled from Honolulu to Palo Alto to South Bend to New York to Miami to watch college football, and has also covered the Pac-10 for both PigskinPost.com and CollegeFootballNews.com. He can be reached at email@example.com.


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Thought I'd share this note sent emailed over to me by Alistair Hatch, our European PR Manager. It was included in a package sent to our UK office along with a copy of Morrowind. If you can't see what the note says, it reads as follows:
"Dear Zenimax,
This game is incredibly addictive. It's the devil! All my precious time is being devoured by this monster. I must sent it back to you before I start playing again. I hope I never buy a game like this again! Mercy on the souls of the computer nerds out there.
Almost sounds like Frodo returning the ring to Mordor. Maybe y'all can make this person feel better by sharing how much precious time you've invested in the game.


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Category: bridal baby names
Guest blogger Jasmine Almeida has come up with a novel source of baby names: your own wedding day.
Maybe it was the Pearl detailing on my dress, perhaps it was the Lacey accents on my veil. Or it could have been the gorgeous amnesia Rose bouquet I held as I walked down the aisle. But my guess is, it was marrying the love of my life last summer that got me thinking about how many gorgeous names there are in the world of weddings. Being a freelance writer who focuses on weddings, I tend to look at words related to them a lot – and couldn't help but get inspired by the many beautiful baby name possibilities that spring forth from weddings.
Of course, there are the flower names, to which I'm partial because my own name is Jasmine and one of my puppies is Daisy. Naming a daughter after the flower you held in your bouquet on your wedding day is a sweet and sentimental reason for choosing a name like Calla, Daisy, Dahlia, Iris, or Lily, or the more general floral names like Flora or Florence.
If you've gone wedding dress shopping, you're probably familiar with the range of stunning designer dresses available. Naming a baby girl after your dress's designer would be another romantic way of infusing your wedding-day memories into your naming process. A few favorites? Vera (after legendary gown designer Vera Wang), Paloma, (Paloma Blanca gowns are spectacular) or Priscilla (of Boston, of course). Monique (lhuillier), Sophia, (Trolli) or Elie (Saab) are all elegant names as well as legendary wedding gown designers.


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And, of course, the fine print:
Get free shipping on your next order when you spend over $100. The discount will be automatically applied to your purchase; no promo code required. The subtotal of your purchase must be $100.01 or greater after any promotional discounts have been applied. Additional fees such as tax or shipping and handling do not apply toward your minimum subtotal requirement of $100.01. Offer applies to standard shipping only. Certain items that require additional shipping and handling are excluded from this promotion and do not apply towards your $100.01 subtotal minimum. Offer subject to change.
This repurposed pint Ball jar is not just decorative, it's also a functional soap dispenser, adding modern rustic charm to your kitchen, bathroom or laundry room. This handy soap dispenser is made from a limited edition American Heritage Ball jar, which has a lovely green hue.The roomy jar may be filled with soap, hand sanitizer, dish soap, lotion or – if you're creative – condiments.
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This product ships from the maker within 8 days, via USPS
If you're not happy with this item for any reason, you may return it for a full refund within 14 days.


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Food Sector Serving Two Bellwether Earnings Calls
While third-quarter 2012 earnings season officially kicks off after today's market close, the two earnings reports that I'm waiting for this week are from Yum! Brands (YUM) and Safeway (SWY). While that seems at odds -- eating out vs. eating in -- I'm most interested in the managements' discussion about their respective businesses and the markets in which they compete.
Yes, many people will be concerned about whether those companies meet or beat their quarterly expectations and maintain, cut or raise their forward guidance. For me, I am not involved in those two names, but what they say will affect several of the other companies that I have recommended here at Real Money Pro, including Starbucks (SBUX) and McCormick (MKC). ...394 more words left in this article. To read them, just click below and try Real Money FREE for 14 days.
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Super Bowl XLVIII
Seattle Seahawks 43, Denver Broncos 8
Opinion: Manning's legacy damaged
Reactions: Broncos scoreless at the half
Reactions: Time Warner Cable blackout
Opinion: TWC did viewers a favor
Action shots, celebration photos
LOS ANGELES — Time Warner Cable says it is investigating a blackout on its analog Fox channel in Southern California that cut off the Super Bowl for its customers. Hundreds of football fans are taking to Twitter to complain about the blackout, which occurred shortly before the halftime show. Some customers were tweeting that their service was restored shortly before 6 p.m.
Shortly after 6 p.m. Time Warner Cable officials announced the problem had been fixed.
"We have resolved a technical issue with the SD signal and apologize for the inconvenience to our customers," Time Warner Cable spokesman Dennis Johnson said in an email.
Viewing on mobile? Go here: http://storify.com/InsideSoCalSpts/time-warner-cable-faces-backlash-for-super-bowl-bl


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THE first details of the proposed leisure lease have begun to emerge, with news that the West Swindon library looks set to remain at the Link Centre.
Earlier this week it was revealed that Greenwich Leisure Ltd is set to take over the running of all the leisure facilities in Swindon, while Twigmarket will run the golf facilities.
GLL, which runs the Oasis, has taken a 25-year lease on the Croft Sports Centre, Delta Tennis Centre, the Haydon Centre, the Link Centre, Dorcan Recreation Complex and the Health Hydro.
GLL managing director Mark Sesnan said: "We are delighted to be the preferred bidder for the leisure facilities in Swindon.
"We have successfully been managing Oasis Leisure Centre, in Swindon, since January 2013, so have a good knowledge and understanding of the area.
"And we are proud to be furthering our commitment to residents, providing first class, affordable leisure and sporting facilities.
"GLL currently operates more than 140 public leisure centres across England and Wales, so our experience – coupled with our status as a 'not for profit' charitable social enterprise – means we have both the operational skills and community focus to enable us to successfully operate a range of facilities that are sustainable long into the future."
As part of the lease, GLL has said it will be investing in improvements to the facilities.
Although nothing is confirmed at this stage, a few details have begun to emerge about the company, which runs the London Aquatics Centre and the Copper Box Arena.
It is understood it wants to keep the West Swindon Library at the Link Centre, although it could move up to the first floor.
But the the council is currently in the process of reviewing library coverage across the town having conducted a consultation earlier this year.
A council report also notes that GLL is intending to open discussions with Dorcan Academy as the school is heavily dependent on the nearby leisure centre, and there will be continued right of access for members of the bowls club near to the Haydon Centre.
The overall aim of the proposal, which will go before cabinet next week, is to save £1.4m in subsidies on leisure services.
Several of the sites produce a surplus each year, but overall the council was keen to push ahead to allow investment to go ahead.
Coun Keith Williams (Con, Shaw) the cabinet member for leisure services, said: "As a social enterprise GLL do not have to charge VAT, something which the council or a private company is obliged to do.
"Therefore, if something costs £6 for the customer then GLL will keep everything but the council will lose 20 per cent.
"GLL are also able to gain relief rates and, because of their size, are able to benefit from economies of scale."
Some centres make profit
SEVERAL of the leisure and golf sites had a greater income than expenses.
Dorcan Recreation Complex made £100,000 last year and Delta Tennis Centre made £30,000.
However, overall there are some large costs which are spread across the whole portfolio and these are what make up the need for a large subsidy.
These include £700,000 in repairs and almost £400,00 in administrations costs.
There is also a £4m backlog of repairs of which the council will pay £2m and the companies taking the leases will cover the rest.


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An example... if you are a visitor to the University of Oxford and get a one-time account for accessing the Internet, then everything from the account management system to the user log-in experience is Perl. I could write a few paragraphs about this.
I think that something along those lines would make a perfect category for PtUP. Obviously I wouldn't want to hand out author accounts to everyone who wanted to post a success story - but having an author who specialised in collating and publishing them would be a great idea.
Are you volunteering to take it on?
I'll drop you an email to discuss further...


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AT the age of 63, grandmother Mary White has become a world champion in one of the hardest physical disciplines in sport.
She has just won the World Quadrathlon Championships in the over-60s age-group in Lincolnshire, swim-ming 1,500 metres in open water, then kayaking for seven kilometres, followed by a 36km cycle ride and a 10km run. And all of that just two years after having knee replacement surgery.
Mrs White, from Heaton, comes from a sporty family of seven children.
Her husband, retired civil servant Andrew, and children Stuart and Jenny, have given her strong support and she says that training two or three times a week at the Bolton Arena gym where she also takes part in spinning and Pilates' classes has "really helped".
The retired teacher who taught at Rivington and Blackrod High School before going to Holy Cross College in Bury, has a twin sister, Margaret, and both were always active in various sports.
She played squash and badminton before knee problems prompted her interest in running.
She eventually needed a knee replacement operation two years ago.
"It was a complete success," she said.
Mrs White joined Horwich Harriers and became successful in fell-running before she took up cycling, thanks to her husband, and kayaking, thanks to her brother John who is a kayaking coach in Macclesfield.
Fellow competitors at fell-running encouraged Mrs White and her twin, who lives in Knutsford, to take part in the World Quadrathlon Championships.
"The British Quadrathlon Association wanted as many British competitors as possible for the World Championships because they were being held for the first time in the UK," explained Mrs White.
She embarked on a regular training regime last December, helped by gym staff at Bolton Arena.
This year, the sisters took part in triathlons, including the Salford Triathlon, as well as concentrating on their kayaking, running and cycling.
The World Champ-ionships attracted competitors from all over the world.
Mrs White was determined to do well and "really went for it", especially in the cycling. "I know I can always do a 10k run so I wanted to get ahead as much as possible," she said.
Her strategy paid off. She took first place, with her sister coming second for a real family celebration.
Mrs White said: "I like to have a different challenge each year. It's just something I enjoy."