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Late comeback bid not enough in rubber game
Simon sharp in tough defeat; Price shoulders some of blame for loss
CINCINNATI -- The Reds were one out away Wednesday afternoon from not scoring more than three runs in 12 consecutive games for the first time in nearly 66 years.
Had it not been for Devin Mesoraco's three-run homer off D-backs closer Addison Reed with two outs in the ninth, Cincinnati might have set the longest such streak in franchise history since the 1948 club was unable to score at least four runs in a game for 14 contests from Aug. 26-Sept. 9.
But though it avoided that fate, Cincinnati lost, 5-4, to Arizona in the rubber game at Great American Ball Park. It was the Reds' 10th loss in 12 post-All-Star break games and resulted in their fourth consecutive series loss. They hadn't dropped four straight series since the first four series of the season.
With the Brewers' 5-0 win over the Rays, the Reds are six games back in the National League Central.
Cincinnati squandered several scoring chances, reflecting another microcosm of how unproductive its offense has been in the second half:
• The Reds were 1-for-11 with runners in scoring position, and are batting .141 (11-for-78) with runners in scoring position since the All-Star break.
• They left 10 men on base Wednesday and stranded 22 in the series.
• They had runners in scoring position in every inning but two (the second and fifth), and before the the ninth, scored one run in the eighth on a Skip Schumaker RBI double.
In the ninth, pinch-hitter Billy Hamilton, who didn't start because manager Bryan Price wanted to give the struggling center fielder a day off, led off with a single and moved to second one out later when Ramon Santiago walked. Todd Frazier flew out to left and Mesoraco hit the three-run blast, his 18th homer of the season.
Though the club's hitters continued to struggle, Price shouldered some of the blame for the outcome.
"In large part, I think it was poor game management by myself," he said. "I don't think I made the choices that needed to be made in that game. I think I really mismanaged the roster in this game. I could have created better opportunities for us to win that game, and I didn't do a great job managing this game."
One regret Price mentioned specifically was how he utilized pinch-hitters.
"I just put us in a position somewhat where we had to create some opportunities where we had to pinch-hit a little bit earlier, just with the way I utilized the roster when I hit with [Kris] Negron [for starter Alfredo Simon in the seventh]. I could've left [Negron] in the game there and I didn't, and that would have given him an opportunity to stay in that spot and save our pinch-hitters for other opportunities.
"I don't want to go any further than that. I just have some regrets."
A potential rally in the third was snuffed out on the basepaths.
Chris Heisey led off with a single to left-center that was bobbled by Mark Trumbo, leading Heisey to try for second, where he was thrown out. Santiago followed with a single and Frazier walked, but Santiago was caught stealing third and Mesoraco flew out to right.
"Heisey was busting his tail trying to get to second base, it was a bang-bang play," Price said. "I can't begrudge him for that. He saw the outfielder bobble the ball and Trumbo doesn't throw well from left, so it was an aggressive play. I don't think it was a mistake.
"We had a sign mixup there with Santiago stealing third; that just wasn't a play we wanted to run right there. But there was a miscommunication on the signs, no fault of Santi's. He thought he was doing exactly what we wanted him to do."
Simon tossed seven solid innings, but took the loss, allowing two runs on six hits, walking one and striking out two.
Paul Goldschmidt hit a two-run homer off Simon in the sixth, the only blemish on the All-Star right-hander's record. The outing was a turnaround of sorts for Simon, who was 0-2 with a 4.82 ERA in two second half starts before Wednesday.
"When I go out there, I just try to do my job," Simon said. "I just try to throw a quality game and I know [our hitters] are struggling right now and we aren't scoring a lot of runs right now, but I don't focus on the hitting, I just focus on throwing my seven innings, doing my job."
Searching for good news on the Reds isn't easy, but the rotation has produced five consecutive quality starts after one in the first seven games following the All-Star break.
Arizona tacked on a run on a Trumbo sacrifice fly in the eighth against reliever J.J. Hoover. Didi Gregorius hit a two-run homer off Carlos Contreras in the ninth in what turned out to be the decisive blow.
The Reds hit the road for a six-game trip, every game becoming more and more vital to their ability to stay in the thick of the NL Central and Wild Card races.
"We know that we're going to be much better than what we've been showing," Brayan Pena said. "We just have to go out there and take care of business down there in Miami and then go to Cleveland and see what happens."
Manny Randhawa is an associate reporter for MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.


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The White House says President Barack Obama won't be unveiling a specific new peace proposal when he visits Israel this spring.
The White House announced Tuesday that Obama would travel to Israel, the West Bank and Jordan, raising the possibility the U.S. would launch a new push to revive the stalled peace process.
But White House spokesman Jay Carney says that's not the purpose of the trip. He says Obama's visit is timed to coincide with the start of new terms for Obama and for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Earlier Wednesday, U.S. Ambassador to Israel Dan Shapiro said Obama would bring an "urgent" agenda to Israel that includes the situations in Syria and Iran. The visit will be Obama's first as president to Israel.

subset: commoncrawl


text: Slim oxford shirt in navy ink plaid Item F8078 Color: HYDE PLAID Size: MEDIUM All sizes are US sizes. MEDIUM Size Charts Quantity: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 Prices do not include taxes. Add to Bag Wishlist Add to Bag Add To Wishlist share: size & fit Slim fit, cut more narrowly through the body and sleeves. Product Details Few shirts age better than an oxford. The frays, the fades—these are the kinds of details we love. We selected this plaid fabric because it can (and will) hang with your old favorites. Cotton. Button-down collar. Machine wash. Import. Item F8078.


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Running does not come naturally for me. When I'm pounding the pavement, my muscles ache, my knees hurt, I'm wishing I was done. Yet, I continue to run, albeit not far or super often, because it's the quickest form of good, heart-pumping exercise I can get. No car or special equipment needed. No membership required. Running is easy….until, that is, I've got my running shoes on.
Once I get going, my mind tries to convince me that running was not such a good idea after all. It tells me that I'm not a "real" runner but rather an impostor dressed in running clothes. It says I should forget the running and focus on other ways to stay fit instead. But the truth is, I want to run. If I can get myself into the groove, it is possible for me to enjoy running – at least a little bit. Plus I feel great after a run – no other form of exercise gives me quite the endorphin rush as running.
I find that it helps to have a few tricks up my sleeve (or in my mind) before I head out for a run. If you are trying to feel a bit more lovin' in your running, you may want to try a few of these ideas:
Go at your own pace
When I head out for a run, I have very little expectation of my pace or the distance I will go. My goal is simply to get out there and do it. I don't wear a watch or a pedometer. I don't track my miles. If I need to take a walking break, I do it. There is no reason to be embarrassed about taking your time and doing it your way!
Wear good shoes
Proper running shoes with good support are key. My husband picked up some ASICS running shoes on sale at REI for me and they help my feet feel as good as they can, considering what I am putting them through. Planet Shoes has some eco-friendly running shoe options, including the popular barefoot style, which I have yet to try but many people swear by.
Run mindfully
My brain wants to be mean to me and tell me that I'm no good at running. I find that if I am aware of how my mind is tricking me, I can usually overcome it. Positive imagery and focused breathing help me keep my mind off the negative and just on the task at hand. To distract myself when I am feeling tired, I look for certain colors in my surroundings – focusing on red (stop signs, cars, tulips) or yellow (school buses, houses, sunflowers) or different shades of green. It sounds odd, but it works for me.
Create a soundtrack
Music makes all the difference. I have an upbeat playlist that keeps me motivated and puts me in a good mood. I'm getting a bit bored with it though so it's time to add some new tunes. Any recommendations?
Mix it up
Sick of your running route? Run somewhere else! I find that mixing up my running routes keeps me engaged and often tricks me into running farther. Fortunately, I live in a running-friendly neighborhood and near a number of lakes and running paths, so there is no shortage of great places to run.
Be grateful
Whenever I want to complain about the aches and pains of exercise, I stop to remember how lucky I am that I can exercise. I am able to run out my door any day I want, on my own two feet and do something healthy for my body. Now that's lucky!
I'll probably never LOVE running. Not the way my husband does and many other people I know. But I'll continue to run (along with doing other types of exercise) as long as I feel like I'm benefiting from it – both mentally and physically.
Are you a runner? What do you recommend to make running more enjoyable?
photo credit: Thomas Hawk via photopin cc
(Disclosure: there are a couple affiliate links in this post. Any purchase you make helps keep this blog in business. Thanks!)


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Avoid Park and Ride Lots Due to Snow
Feb. 8, 2010
News Highlights
More Information
Fairfax County is encouraging residents to avoid the park and ride lots during the ongoing snow emergency affecting the area. Snow removal work continues but is expected to slow as the next storm front moves in Tuesday, Feb. 9.
Currently many spaces at the park and ride lots are taken up by mounds of snow and any additional parked cars may delay the continuing snow removal efforts. Residents may contact the Fairfax County Emergency Information Line at 703-817-7771, TTY 711 for more information; voice mail messages will be monitored and returned.
Emergency information and status updates will be available on:
- Fairfax County's Web site
- Emergency information phone line (703-817-7771)
- Community Emergency Alert Network (CEAN)
- Fairfax County Government Channel 16.
- In addition, 1670 AM, emergency radio for Fairfax County, is broadcasting continuous weather information directly from the National Weather Service.
Additional winter weather preparedness information can be found online. In addition, emergency contact numbers for public utilities is online should residents lose electricity, gas, telephone, cable, Internet or water service.
Contact: Merni Fitzgerald, Director, Office of Public Affairs
703-324-3189, TTY 711, Media Pager: 703-324-NEWS (6397)
To request this information in an alternate format, call 703-324-3187, TTY 711


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Gold's Deflation Fear Trade Is Over ... for Now
Gold broke down below $1600 per ounce this morning and is trading at about $1,581 as I write. The last time I discussed gold was last December when it broke below $1,700 in the column Gold Primed for a Another Fall.
This column is essentially an extension and update to the issues discussed in that column and I suggest reading it in conjunction with this one. ...417 more words left in this article. To read them, just click below and try Real Money FREE for 14 days.
There's no substitute for a trading floor to get great ideas, so Jim Cramer created a better one at Real Money and blogs there exclusively. We then added legendary hedge fund manager, Doug Kass, with his exclusive Daily Diary and best investing ideas. Staffed with more than 4 dozen investing pros, money managers, journalists and analysts, Real Money Pro gives you a flood of opinions, analysis and actionable trading advice found nowhere else, and allows you to interact directly with each expert.
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I can't wait any longer for the professional pics -- I want to post this RR so badly! So I'll post professional pics in a separate bloop.
SPARTAN BEAST: The ultimate Spartan's Race Distance
13+ MILES / 25+ OBSTACLES - An obstacle Race from Hell. If you have done any race anywhere in the world: whether a mud run, fun run, Olympic run, bike race, death march or any kind of event claiming to be the "toughest race on the planet" you will be happy to know that this is where it ends..THIS IS THE SPARTAN BEAST... Step up and get out of your comfort zone on our +16k beast of an obstacle course race; many will arrive, but few will leave!
My friend and her husband signed up for the race too, also about a year in advance. We all thought, yeah, whatever, we finished the Super which was 11 miles in 5 hours, so we should be done in 6-7 hours, or at least 6-8 as the website claims.
I was training for a marathon leading into this event, so my main focus was on road-running though I was still going to the gym (functional fitness type workouts) and weightlifting on my own. And my main dilemma was that the Beast was the same weekend as my last 20-mile run was supposed to be. So I ran 18 the week before and hoped the Beast would suffice for my last big endurance event.
My husband and I headed up to Vermont, and our hotel was right by the start/finish area so we were able to see some of the course the day before the race. I was a bit freaked out by a couple of the water obstacles -- swim across the pond, climb a rope or ladder up to the bridge, grab some ropes and swing across to ring a bell...yeah, right! Then there was the Tyrolean Traverse which is a rope across the pond -- you shimmy across the rope and ring a bell and drop into the water. Yeah, right, failed that one last year!
We had a nice dinner, and the restaurant at our hotel had a special drink -- the Spartini! It was green and melon-flavored.
For some reason I fell asleep before 8 pm and got up at 6:30 am to get ready for the Beast! I wore old capris, an old sports bra and tank, old socks, old shoes, an old long-sleeve shirt, and an old knit hat because it was chilly outside. I ate like a champ -- 3 scrambled eggs, 2 slices of bacon, and a large baked sweet potato. We headed out to the registration area to meet my friends and pick up race bib and timing chip. In the race packet we received a Spartan headband with our race number on it -- cool!
We had awhile before our heat started at 10:30, and we were fortunate enough to see the elite racers come through. WOW. Talk about fine specimens of masculine fitness! These guys did the rope climb like it was nothing, flipped their feet up to tap the bell at the top, shimmied down into the dirty water, and headed to the next obstacle. Yay, eye candy for the ladies!
To get into the start corral you had to climb over a 5 foot wall. The DJ played music and got us all pumped up, and we were off! And up. The first obstacles were over-unders -- over a wall or hay bales, under a wall, etc. We kept going up. And up. The mountain was pretty steep and as we passed the 1 mile marker we were still going up. And just when you thought you were at the top there was a left turn and more up! People were calling for a medic, and we called down as well. The girl who needed it had an asthma attack and may have hurt her leg, not sure, but it was hard to watch as she was sobbing hysterically. Her friends and a couple of other people were trying to calm her down until the medic arrived.
I'm not sure of the order of the obstacles, but we did some wall climbs, monkey bars (which I fell off and had to do the 30 burpees penalty), a tire drag, pulling a concrete block on a rope and letting it down without slamming on the ground. We went back down the hill through woods -- lots of mud, rocks, roots, and at some points you had to go on your butt to keep from wiping out) and at mile 4 we were each given a big sandbag that was supposed to be 50-70 lbs, though I saw some that were much lighter. Unfortunately, the volunteer threw me a bag inside another bag. It had to be 70 lbs, was very unwieldy, and I ended up dragging it up the hill like a body bag. One really nice guy helped me carry it -- he said mine was heavier than his was! We got to the top, then I tried to carry it down but couldn't manage it. 70 lbs is much more than half my body weight. I ended up sitting, putting the bag across my legs, and crab-crawling down. My husband was there (it was a spectator point) and he said, "That's a unique way to bring it down." Hey, whatever works!
We went back up through the woods to the mental challenge point. Find the last 2 digits on your bib and memorize a word and series of 7 numbers. If you wrote it down the penalty was 30 burpees. No idea when we would be required to recite the word and digits. We did some more climbing, did a loooooong mud crawl under barbed wire where a volunteer was more than happy to hose us down with cold water, through some dirty water trenches, and more downhill, finally coming to the 7 mile area where the rope climb and obstacles where we saw the elites was located. There were lots of spectators. First we had to climb over hay bales, then go under a wall in dirty water (ugh, nasty), then to the rope climb. Rope climbs scare me as I'm afraid of heights, but I tried it. No luck, the muddy water made it too slippery. Then through a tunnel and into a surprise muddy barbed-wire crawl again.
Then we went over a showcase ladder structure with the Spartan logos displayed everywhere. Up the ladder, onto a platform, across the cargo net where you were not allowed to touch the beams, to the platform, and down the other side. Scary because you were so high off the ground and could see it thru the netting below.
Now it was time for the big water obstacles. Swim halfway across the pond to the bridge, climb the rope, drop down into the water, and swim across to the other side. We opted to do burpees instead. As we were doing burpees, my friend's husband announced that he was done, and my friend announced that she was done too.
We were 7 miles and 6 hours into the race. She said that this was supposed to be their weekend away from the kids and they wanted to have a nice evening together. I said OK. My husband was coming around taking photos, and they told him they were done. I said I was going to try to keep going. My friends were surprised, but I started to tear up and said I wasn't ready to be done yet.
I went over to the traverse wall and couldn't make it across. I started my 30 burpees and was trying not to cry. My husband and friends were cheering me on. When I finished the burpees my husband came over and said that I was an inspiration, he was proud of me, and he supported whatever I chose to do. I told him, "I am not ready to quit. I did not come here to quit. Either they pull me from the course because I didn't bring a headlamp or I will cross the finish line." He hugged me and said, "Find someone with a headlamp and stay with them. Do what you have to do to finish."
I went into the water for the second swimming obstacle. I swam to the ladder hanging from the bridge and tried to climb it. I couldn't get up very high as I felt weak at that point and dropped back into the water. I swam for the shore and started doing my burpees. My husband was talking to a couple of ladies who were looking for salt pills, and he asked if I had some to spare. I gave them several, then went over to the memory challenge. I approached a guy with a clipboard and recited "Juliet 800-8307" and proceeded around the lake and into the woods.


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NetWellness is a global, community service providing quality, unbiased health information from our partner university faculty. NetWellness is commercial-free and does not accept advertising.
Sunday, September 24, 2017
Research Center
Esophageal Cancer Prognosis
I would like to know the survival rate for a 31 year old female with stage 3 esophageal cancer. Also, are there any new advancements in that area as far as treatment options are concerned?
Stage III esophageal cancer is defined as an esophageal tumor which extends through the wall of the esophagus. Lymph nodes in the region may or may not show evidence of cancer spread. It is described as "locally advanced" cancer. Even though surgical treatment for esophageal cancer has improved significantly, the long term outlook has not markedly improved in the past decades. Survival is described either as two year survival (35-40% if tumor is able to be completely removed) or as five year survival (5-10%). There are many variables present in each person which contribute to overall survival rates. Women may have a better survival rate than men. Appropriate therapy is currently controversial. There are 35 clinical trials listed by the National Institutes of Health (see ClinicalTrials website below) which look at combining surgery with different chemotherapeutic drugs, radiation therapy, photodynamic therapy, and even gene therapy. The article by HJ Stein is a good review of the current multidisciplinary approach. [Stein HJ, Sendler A, Fink U, Siewert JR (2000): Multidisciplinary approach to esophageal and gastric cancer. Surg Clin North Am 80(2):659-82; discussions 683-6.] Photodynamic therapy is based on the discovery that certain chemicals known as photosensitizing agents, when combined with a laser light, will destroy cancer cells. It was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for use in esophageal cancer in December, 1995. For further information on photodynamic therapy and issues related to esophageal cancer, see the CancerNet website below.
Judith A Westman, MD
Associate Professor, Clinical Internal Medicine, Pediatrics and Medical Biochemistry
College of Medicine
The Ohio State University


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UPDATE - Officer Involved Shooting
Fairfax County Police Department
Public Information Office
4100 Chain Bridge Road, Fairfax, Va. 22030
703-246-2253. TTY 703-204-2264. Fax 703-246-4253
News Release: 12/191/0022/sb/(2)
July 9, 2012
The deceased in last night's shooting has been identified as Nicholas Allen Kaelber, 21, of 2803 Wakewater Way Woodbridge.
Officer-Involved Shooting in the
Mount Vernon Area
Mount Vernon Police District – Police are investigating an overnight officer-involved shooting that left one person dead. Around 11:20 p.m. on Sunday, July 8, two officers observed two males acting suspiciously in the area of Frye Road and Madge Lane. The officers approached both males and one fled on foot.
The two officers briefly pursued the man and attempted to detain him. During the struggle the suspect produced a handgun and fired shots toward the officers. One officer returned fire, striking the suspect. The man was transported to Inova Mount Vernon Hospital and pronounced dead a short time later. The second suspect fled on foot. Neither officer required medical treatment at the scene.
This investigation is ongoing. The deceased's identity is not yet available for release. The two officers will be placed on routine administrative leave. All information provided in this release is based on preliminary investigation and may be subject to revision as the investigation continues.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Crime Solvers by phone at 1-866-411-TIPS/8477, e-mail at www.fairfaxcrimesolvers.org or text "TIP187" plus your message to CRIMES/274637 or call Fairfax County Police at 703-691-2131.


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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.
If you can't run away to the mountains just yet, looking at this nostalgic print will have to do. A giclee print of an original illustration, the mountain print features just that: mountains. Along with a lake, a boat and a smattering of trees.
- Ultra premium matte stock
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This product ships from the maker within 7 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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Posted 5 years ago
(37 items)
I love this table - retro - 50's/60's Table trio. Haven't seen anything close to a set online - for months.
Black and white gold flecked tile - with atomic legs. I received this from an estate in my neighborhood... It's as if someone stored it under a bed for 50 years. There is no maker mark, so I do not know who made it, but it is nearly pristine - without a doubt. A great Mid Century Modern look and appeal. Love the Retro!


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Congratulations to the Class of 2008. And to the alumni and alumnae, the Social Science Department sends you best wishes and success in your careers.
As in the past, the Department is blessed with a dedicated and scholarly faculty, which is in turn capably assisted by Professor Emeriti, Visiting Professors, Adjunct Faculty, Operating Staff and Student assistants.
Our Faculty News reveals the breadth and scope of the Department members' highly intellectual, scholarly and community-enhancing endeavors. And the Department and Staff News show the excellent cooperation which enables the Department to be one of the best in the University.
Again, the Department is thankful to everyone who has contributed to/and continue to support our student scholarships and stipends. Many of our students have been honored by the established William L. Taylor Scholarship Fund, the James J. Hogan Memorial Fund, the Catherine and Kirk Middlekauff Fund, the John F. Ozog Memorial Fund, the John L. Daly Scholarship Fund and the Switzer History Prize. Our outstanding students deserve such scholarships and if you wish to enhance any of the funds or to establish new ones, please contact me or the Office of Institutional Advancement at (603) 535-2589.
Visit PSU as soon as you can, and do keep in touch wherever you are.
To all of you, my very best wishes,
Peng-Khuan Chong, (Chair)


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- Income-Based Repayment (IBR) for Federal Student Loans
The federal government's income-based repayment program (IBR) for student loans allows qualified borrowers to tie their monthly federal student loan payments to their discretionary income. A new version of the IBR program called "Pay As You Earn" took effect on December 21, 2012 (it was originally scheduled to be phased in during 2014, but the Obama administration took regulatory measures to make it available sooner). The potential for IBR to change the landscape for college borrowers is enormous. According to the U.S. Department of Education, as of last October, about two million borrowers had applied for IBR.
- Student loan basics
Repaying your student loans is serious business! To help you meet this obligation, most lenders offer a short grace period before your first payment is due, as well as flexible repayment plans. Besides the standard 10-year repayment plan, you might be able to choose a graduated repayment plan, an extended plan, or an income-based plan. In most cases, you can consolidate several loans into one loan, often with a lower interest rate. And if you're experiencing financial difficulties, ask your lender about a deferment or forbearance--don't just stop paying on your own.


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Kangwon Raglan Women T-Shirts are an Idakoos specialtiy! Idakoos has many things to offer. Whether you want to get a Kangwon Raglan Women T-Shirt for a special occasion, give a Kangwon Women T-Shirt as a present or need to represent with a funny Kangwon Raglan Tee during Holidays or Family and Friends get-togethers, Idakoos is sure to have the right Kangwon Raglan Women T-Shirt for you! Even if it turns out you can't find the right Kangwon Raglan Shirt with the perfect design for your mother, father or children (or friends!); Idakoos offers all of its men's women's and children's Kangwon Raglan Women T-Shirts as Custom Kangwon Women T-Shirts. Personalize any Kangwon Raglan Women T-Shirt the way you want to ensure the perfect gift.
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The G20 Toronto Summit Declaration reiterated the willingness of G20 governments to fight protectionism and promote investment.
The Declaration highlighted the "right choice" of governments in keeping markets open to the opportunities that investment offers and renewed the G20's commitment to refrain from raising barriers to investment or trade until 2013.
The Declaration, adopted on 27 June, called on UNCTAD to continue monitoring investment policy measures and to report publicly on a quarterly basis on these developments (paragraph 36).
On 14 June, UNCTAD issued a Report on G20 Investment Measures, prepared jointly with the OECD for consideration at the G20 Summit in Toronto.
The UNCTAD-OECD Report on G20 Investment Measures finds that between November 2009 and May 2010, most investment policy moves pointed toward greater openness and transparency for foreign investors, but that some emergency measures designed to manage the effects of the crisis continue to threaten the flow of international investment.
United Nations Conference on Trade and Development
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The defense for former county water board member Steve Collins was dealt another setback Thursday after a Superior Court judge rejected his attorney's bid to call Ocean Mist Farms officials to testify, even as the prosecution wrapped up its presentation.
Judge Pamela Butler denied a request by defense attorney Mike Lawrence to call Ocean Mist officials Ed Boutonnet, Dale Huss and Jim Schweffel to the stand in a preliminary hearing to determine if Collins will face a slew of charges alleging he accepted payments for work he either didn't do or shouldn't have been paid for while he was a public official. The case includes dozens of charges that Collins billed the Castroville artichoke grower tens of thousands of dollars for attending meetings he never went to or that never occurred while he was working as a consultant for the firm.
Butler ruled there was no evidence the officials' testimony would bolster the defense's claims that Collins never intended to defraud Ocean Mist, that he provided the firm full value for its money and that any confusion about the details of his consulting work was the company's fault because of a lax agreement with Collins that largely didn't require detailed records.
The ruling was the latest setback for the defense, which has already seen bids rejected to call various public officials, including county supervisors, to the stand to testify on conflict of interest charges alleging Collins accepted payments from the private consulting firm RMC Water and Environment for work on the failed regional desalination project while he was a public official.
Both sides will present their arguments at the conclusion of the lengthy preliminary hearing Tuesday afternoon.
Thursday's testimony revealed that District Attorney's Office investigators first learned there might be questions about Collins' consulting work for Ocean Mist from Supervisor Dave Potter, who presumably learned about it from Supervisor Lou Calcagno. Boutonnet, Ocean Mist's CEO, approached Calcagno in early 2011 after Collins resigned from the county water board amid revelations about his dual role on the regional desal project.
Prosecutor Stephanie Hulsey concluded her presentation Thursday by finishing off a lengthy questioning of investigator Heather Hardee, whose testimony focused largely on Collins' consulting deal with Ocean Mist and the fallout after company officials discovered errors in his billings.
Hardee said Boutonnet disputed a number of assertions by Collins, including that he had offered Collins his support and said he could return after the matter was cleared up, and that the company had offered Collins a bonus and hired his nephew because they were so happy with him.
Boutonnet said he never told Collins he could return to the company's employ, that the bonus was actually the unpaid portion of a $25,000 loan to Collins the company wrote off as a bad debt, and that the nephew was hired as an intern at a college job fair, Hardee testified.
In addition, Hardee testified, Huss said he invested $6,000 with Collins on a "Bollywood-style" movie deal, but never saw any return and eventually concluded he wouldn't get the money back.
During a discussion with Collins, the company officials said they felt he had issued a "veiled threat" when he insisted they sign a supportive statement disavowing the criminal allegations and said his attorneys would go after the company's "skeletons" if they declined, Hardee testified.
During cross-examination, Lawrence said company officials had called Collins an expert on local agriculture, water, land use and other issues of which his knowledge and perspective were highly valued.
Lawrence also said the original consulting contract, which began in 2002, resulted in a series of uniform monthly payments not based on specified work hours, which he called essentially a "retainer."
He disputed the notion that the agreement was changed by virtue of a single, brief email from Boutonnet's assistant sent near the end of 2005 asking for more detailed invoices as a result of questions about Collins' bills. Lawrence suggested the change was actually due to concerns about the IRS's interpretation of Collins' role with the company. That, he said, was because Collins still had an office at Ocean Mist and received company-paid benefits.
Lawrence argued the relaxed nature of a consulting deal between Collins and Ocean Mist established a pattern of behavior with the capacity to change the written contract, including any requirement for accurately detailing consulting efforts and work hours, regardless of later statements by Boutonnet suggesting he always expected Collins' invoices to be accurate.
The defense attorney insisted Collins was Boutonnet's "go-to guy" and the company got "full value" for its money.
Jim Johnson can be reached at 753-6753 or firstname.lastname@example.com.


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Humberto Carreno/startraks
Stars carrying oversize bags is nothing new — from Jessica Simpson to Mary-Kate Olsen to Nicole Richie, big bags have taken over Hollywood. So it says a lot when a hefting bag stops us in our tracks. We cannot stop staring at Cameron Diaz's Chanel denim bag — it's practically big enough to be a suitcase (and at $1395, that wouldn't be a bad way to make the most of it!). Her Pierre Hardy metallic saddle bag, worn on her other arm, is a lot more our speed. But we want to know what you think! Tell us: Would you wear Cameron's denim Chanel bag? Do you wear bags that big?


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Greek yogurt's popularity has exploded in the American market – sales grew by 2,500 percent between 2006 and 2011. It is a $1.6 billion market, making up more than one-third of all yogurt sales.
A new study from Affinnova, Inc., a global marketing technology company, Greek yogurt's popularity may be poised to explode beyond the dairy aisle.
So where is this "super-trend" headed?
The study tested 40 prospective Greek yogurt product ideas with 800 consumers, and the results show a promising and innovative future.
Some of the highest-rated products include:
- Ice cream: A favorite among men, Greek yogurt is already starting to infiltrate the frozen dessert section.
- Vitamin/chews: Combining Greek yogurt with vitamins may be a winning combination. The dietary supplement industry is slated to be the world's fastest growing market during 2012-2017, according to Research and Markets.
- Anti-wrinkle cream: Since few companies have incorporated Greek yogurt in beauty products, this could be the biggest breakthrough opportunity into the $10 billion natural and organic beauty market.
- Baby diaper cream: Euromonitor shows that sales of all-natural baby care in the U.S. increased by 68 percent from 2005 to 2010. Greek yogurt baby diaper cream could be a viable entry in the market.
- Frozen breakfast: Scored top among all product ideas with Hispanic consumers, including Greek yogurt frozen waffles and pancakes.
- Baking mix: Women and Millennials were especially fond of adding Greek yogurt to baking mixes.
Not all of the ideas were well-received. The study found that participants especially disliked the idea of Greek yogurt cat treats, dog treats, after-shave, bubble bath, chewing gum, protein powder and shampoo.
Yogurt shampoo is actually not a new idea. Clairol released their "Touch of Yogurt" shampoo in 1979, and though it tested well, many consumers were wary of putting food in their hair. Many even became ill after attempting to consume the product.


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Showing 1 - 24 of 590 Women Hoodies


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Faviana has been making prom dreams come true for more than 25 years and has become one of the top designers of formal gowns and short prom dresses in a range of styles, colors, and fabrics. Beaded strapless gowns for prom, sexy cocktail dresses for homecoming or holiday parties, and elegant mermaid dresses for pageants or red carpet events, all designed with their own high quality fabrics and tailored with impeccable workmanship.
A leader in prom dress design, Faviana dresses have been featured in Teen Vogue, Seventeen, and InStyle magazines. Make the most of your night to shine in a Faviana designer dress from PromGirl where our guaranteed low prices and outstanding customer service let you buy with confidence.


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Foodservice-focused produce distributors in Ohio say they are able to keep sales going, even if some restaurant sectors struggle.
The key to success is diversification, some suppliers say.
"We never put all our eggs in one basket," said James Sanfillipo III, a partner in Sanfillipo Produce Co. Inc., a Columbus-based wholesaler that deals nearly exclusively in foodservice sales.
Sanfillipo said his company's business is focused especially on high-end restaurants — "based on one customer at a time" — and bypasses the mainstream chain business.
The rewards in dealing with chain customers are not equal to the potential risks, Sanfillipo said.
"Yes, you won't grow sales as quickly dealing with one independent at a time, but when those people leave you, you're not out of business," he said.
Losing a chain restaurant account, on the other hand, could cripple or kill a supplier, Sanfillipo said.
Working with foodservice, as opposed to retail, is an easy choice in a market like Columbus, the state capital and home to Ohio State University, Sanfillipo said.
"During the downturn, Columbus was kind of sheltered, since we have a lot of state and federal jobs, plus the university," he said.
The recession of 2008 and years following hit cities like Cleveland, Cincinnati and Dayton with more ferocity than it affected Columbus, Sanfillipo said.
"We have no manufacturing in this town, so we didn't get hurt like others did," he said.
In addition, upscale restaurants didn't struggle in Columbus as they might have elsewhere, Sanfillipo said.
Tom Sirna, chief executive officer of Sirna & Sons Produce, a Ravenna, Ohio-based wholesaler that does considerable foodservice business in the Cleveland area, said his company is selling to a broader range of foodservice customers than in the past. And business at colleges is booming, he said.
"They're taking it to the next level. You're seeing stuff in these college cafeterias that is second to none," he said.
Hospital systems are health-focused in their food orders, as well, Sirna said.
Diversification is a key to success at Sirna & Sons, Sirna said.
"We're doing fine dining, the casual Chipotle's of the world, the Applebee's, the Outbacks, but we're also doing a whole lot more with colleges and hospitals," he said.
"We're trying to be diversified, so if one segment is down, the other might still be up."
Cleveland has seen more independent restaurateurs open for business, particularly downtown, in recent years, Sirna said.
"For years, if you did a concept franchise with multiple units, they'd open two or three new ones, but we're not seeing the growth in that," he said.
All of Ohio's markets are seeing growth in the foodservice sector, in various formats, said Jarrod Clabaugh, communications director with the Columbus-based Ohio Restaurant Association.
"Growth in the industry appears to be happening in many of our major metropolitan markets, particularly among smaller, independent operators," Clabaugh said.


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According to a new study from Blue Coat, a Web security and optimization company, nearly one-quarter of the malware on mobile devices comes from viewing porn websites! Less than 1% of web traffic on mobile devices is for adult content, but the study shows that malware is rampant on those sites. That means that those that view porn on mobile devices have a three times higher change of getting malware. Who would have thought that viewing porn on smartphones a far bigger threat than viewing porn on a PC. It looks like the company that launched Mobile Protection (Skins) for smartphonrs back in 2007 was about six years ahead of the times!
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Strong core values related to customer service and associate satisfaction account for the continued success of our company. We are more than just a collection of hotels, we are a progressive company determined to be the employer of choice in the hospitality industry. We are pleased that you have chosen to learn more about our growing organization and are confident that Crescent will provide you with a very rewarding career.
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© 2011 Crescent Hotels & Resorts, All Rights Reserved
Hotel Management Companies: Crescent Hotels & Resorts A Premier Hotel Management Company


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HAMPSHIRE firms are being urged to state their case for money from a national pot of cash that is aimed at boosting growth.
This follows an announcement from Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg for companies to bid for a slice of funding in the sixth round of the Regional Growth Fund.
The £200m fund will give businesses across the UK the chance to put growth plans into action and safeguard or create jobs by bidding for part of the cash.
Welcoming the announcement Tony Edwards, a partner at Baker Tilly, who has advised on more than 30 successful RGF applications, said: "Eligible private sector firms across the country who are planning projects that will generate significant investment and sustainable jobs will be able to apply for grant funding worth more than £1m each, but it's important that they take account of the recent changes to State Aid rules and act quickly before the window of opportunity shuts on September 30 this year."


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Finding Aid
Records of the Iowa Child Welfare Research Station
Access and Restrictions: This collection is open for research.
Digital Surrogates: Except where indicated, this document describes but does not reproduce the actual text, images and objects which make up this collection. Materials are available only in the Special Collections Department.
Copyright: Please read The University of Iowa Libraries' statement on Property Rights, Copyright Law, and Permissions to Use Unpublished Materials.
Use of Collections: The University of Iowa Libraries supports access to the materials, published and unpublished, in its collections. Nonetheless, access to some items may be restricted by their fragile condition or by contractual agreement with donors, and it may not be possible at all times to provide appropriate machinery for reading, viewing or accessing non-paper-based materials. Please read our Use of Manuscripts Statement.
Acquisition and Processing Information: These materials were transferred to the University Archives from the Iowa Child Welfare Research Station at various times. Guide posted to the Internet January 2007.
Photographs: Box 8
Organization History Note
Program was founded as the Iowa Child Welfare Research Station in 1917; name changed to Institute of Child Behavior and Development in 1964; institute closed in 1974.
Box Contents List
Box 1:
Emergency Education Program, 1934-1935
Financial Current Reports, 1930-1931
----. 1931-1932
Form letters and notices to staff, 1930-1931
Millis, Cora B., 1930-1931
Historical file: Hillis and Seashore correspondence, 1913-1917
Box 2:
Publicity for Station
Reading Clinic
Staff lists
Staff meeting summaries
Box 3:
Hillis-Seashore correspondence, 1918-1921
Historical file: miscellaneous
Home Laboratory
Institute of Character Research
Language Behavior Studies
McCloy, C.H.
Manry, James C.
Manual of Pre-School Practice, 1931-32
Mental Hygiene Institute, 1930-1931
Parent Education
Spelman Reports (financial)
Spelman Fund
Box 4:
Stoddard, George D.
Radio Child Study Club
Elementary School Child, 1941-1945
Radio Child Study
Understanding Iowa Children, 1943-1944
Radio Child Study Club, 1941-1942
Understanding Iowa Children, 1941-1942
Radio Child Study Club
The Family, 1941-1942
Radio Child Study Club, 1943-1944
Box 5 & 6:
Radio Child Study Club
Box 7:
Annual Reports, 1942-1944
Assistantships and scholarships, 1943-1944
Bird T. Baldwin memorial
Bivin Foundation
Boy Scouts of America, 1942-1943
Cobb, W.H., 1942-1943
Commission for Younger Children
Committee on War Research
Committee to Study the Child Welfare Research Station
Conference, June 1941-1944
Council on Children & Youth, 1952-1953
Current courses
Equipment lists
Financial current reports
Form letters and notices to staff
General Education Board
Iowa State Council on Child Study and Parent Education
Iowa Remedial Education Program
Irwin Film
Miscellaneous file
Morrissey, Mary
National Research Council on Nutrition Study
Parents Magazine
Personnel, 1942-1943
Pre-school administration
Photographs of classroom activity, height measurement of children; n.d., possibly 1930s
"Informal Report of Recommendations and Researches," April 17, 1929
Conferences and workshops, 1952-1957 (11 folders)
Addendum 1
Box 1 & 2:
Preschool, 1950-1962
Addendum 2
Box 1 - 6:
Child Welfare subject files, received 12/1980; 1917-1933, 1960-1972; 3.0 ft.
Box 7 & 8:
Child Welfare subject files, received 1/1993; 1965-1975; 1.0 ft.
Box 9 - 11:
Pamphlets and leaflets, sorted by type and date; 1.75 ft.
Box 12:
Child Welfare Review, 1972 ("Institute of Child Behavior and Development"); 0.25 ft.
Box 13 - 40:
Staff files, about 1917-1960, arranged alpha by last name of individual; 14.0 ft.
Addendum 3: Institute of Child Behavior / Preventive Psychiatry Research Program
Box 1:
Correspondence A-J 1959-1960
Box 2:
Correspondence K-Z 1959-1960
Box 3:
Correspondence A-G 1961-1962
Box 4:
Correspondence A-H 1960-1961
Box 5:
Correspondence I-Q 1960-1961
Box 6:
Correspondence R-Z 1960-1961
Box 7:
Correspondence H-O 1961-1962
Box 8:
Correspondence P-Z 1961-1962
Box 9:
Correspondence A-J 1962-1963
Box 10:
Correspondence M-Z 1962-1963
Box 11 & 12:
Preventive Psychiatry Research Program reports, 1950-1960
Oversize Box 1:
Scrapbook (fragile), 1915-1926
Oversize Box 2:
Scrapbook (fragile), 1927-1952


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About Tesla
Palo Alto, California-based, Tesla Motors uses proprietary technology, world-class design, and state-of-the-art manufacturing processes to create a new generation of highway capable electric vehicles. We utilize an innovative distribution model based on Company-owned sales and service centers. This approach allows us to maintain the highest levels of customer experience and benefit from short customer feedback loops to ensure our customer needs are fulfilled. We believe our operational infrastructure provides us with a competitive advantage compared to traditional automobile manufacturers.
The Role
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Tesla Motors is committed to a policy of equal employment opportunity. We recruit, employ, train, compensate, and promote without regard to race, color, age, sex, ancestry, marital status, religion, national origin, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, medical condition, pregnancy, veteran status, genetic information or any other classification protected by state or federal law.
United States
|Web Site:
|1050 Bing Street
San Carlos, CA 94070
United States
|Cleantech / Energy


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Today we are reporting vital intelligence from a document now in my possession that may finally silence Washington's old, lame Benghazi blame-game.
The document, written in 2012, sheds light on the motives and thinking of the attackers as they were attacking the U.S. consulate in Benghazi, Libya. And it reveals errors in assertions made by Democrats and Republicans in the overheated post-Benghazi contretemps.
So today we are revealing both the information and the source who provided this crucial intelligence.
On Saturday, the Benghazi blame game erupted yet again after The New York Times website launched an investigative account of just who did what in Benghazi -- before, during and after the Sept. 11, 2012, attacks. Four Americans were killed in the attacks on the compound and a nearby CIA annex, including U.S. Ambassador J. Christopher Stevens.
The Times report, by Cairo bureau chief David Kirkpatrick, was exhaustive and impressive in many ways. Yet it can be justifiably criticized for not even mentioning Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and giving only minimal coverage to the Obama administration's election-year political decisions on how to respond. (Especially the foolish decision to have the uninvolved and misinformed U.N. Ambassador Susan Rice claim on television the Benghazi attack was merely a copycat of the spontaneous crowd that overran the U.S. Embassy in Cairo to protest a video offensive to Muslims made by a U.S. citizen.)
The New York Times reported its investigation "turned up no evidence that al-Qaida or other international terrorist groups had any role in the assault. ... And contrary to claims by some members of Congress, it was fueled in large part by anger at an American-made video denigrating Islam."
In a flash, the blame game battle was on again. House Oversight Committee Chair Darrell Issa, R, Calif., said on NBC News' "Meet the Press": "We have seen no evidence that the video was widely seen in Benghazi, a very isolated area, or that it was a leading cause."
House Intelligence Committee Chair Mike Rogers, R-Mich., usually excellent and above politics on intelligence issues, is sadly partisan on this one. "We found absolutely no evidence that that video was involved in this whatsoever," Rogers insisted on Monday's "CBS Evening News." "As a matter of fact, most of the information about the video didn't even start surfacing in social media we found until after the event had happened."
Time out! Those claims of Issa and Rogers were refuted by evidence gathered in Benghazi by a source who talked with Libyans -- during the attack! (Also, Team Obama's initial claim that this was just a citizen crowd was also refuted -- many were militia men, armed for the attack. If this source had been a CIA employee, we'd call the info he culled "intelligence.")
Issa, Rogers, Fox News, et al. had the same access we had to this intelligence on the roots of the Benghazi attack. It was in an Oct. 16, 2012, article The New York Times strangely buried on page A6, softly labeled as a "Memo from the Middle East," and written by, yes, David Kirkpatrick.
As an intelligence document, the article delivered far more than the newspaper promised: "To Libyans who witnessed the assault and know the attackers, there is little doubt what occurred: a well-known group of local Islamist militants struck without any warning or protest, and they did it in retaliation for the video. That is what the fighters said at the time, speaking emotionally of their anger at the video without mentioning al-Qaida, Osama bin Laden or the terrorist strikes of 11 years earlier."
Also: "'It was the Ansar al-Shariah people,' said Mohamed Bishari, a 20-year-old neighbor who watched the assault and described the brigade he saw leading the attack. 'There was no protest or anything of that sort.'" (Ansar al-Shariah is a strongly anti-Western militia group, but intelligence agencies reportedly have not found any overt linkage to an al-Qaida network.)
For the past year, while critical of Team Obama's misguided initial response to the Benghazi tragedy, I've wondered in print how critics could repeatedly make accusations that were flatly disproven by that 2012 Times article.
Now we know: Obama's critics weren't lacking intelligence. They just found it inconvenient -- and ignored it.
Martin Schram is a veteran Washington journalist, author and TV documentary executive. Readers may send him email at firstname.lastname@example.com.
Distributed by MCT Information Services
PHOTO of Martin Schram available from the "Columnist Mugs" section of MCT Direct.


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Cain dominates with assist from Posey
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. -- The precision that Matt Cain displayed against the Texas Rangers on Friday, when he threw 49 strikes in 70 pitches, reflected his effectiveness in the Giants' 5-2 Cactus League victory.
But some of the afternoon's best tosses were made not by Cain, but by catcher Buster Posey, who threw out two would-be basestealers and very nearly apprehended a third.
"That'll turn around innings or get you out of some funky jams at times," said Cain, who yielded two hits in his five-inning outing, the longest by a Giant this spring.
Manager Bruce Bochy had complained earlier this spring that Giants pitchers were slightly ponderous in their motion to home plate, thus simplifying matters for opponents trying to steal bases. Cain agreed that he and his fellow pitchers must find ways to assist Posey.
"You just have to vary your [release] times and work on keeping those guys off balance," Cain said. "If you give him a chance, it doesn't matter who's running a lot of times. It's going to be close."
Cain drew closer to being ready for his Opening Day start April 1 at Los Angeles.
"I felt confident throwing whatever I wanted," he said. "I was able to get ahead on the count and my misses weren't as big, I think."
Chris Haft is a reporter for MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.


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The mountain bike
Essentially when choosing a mountain bike, it's pretty straight forward: you're looking for a bike that you can a) afford and b) like the colour of. Of course it's not quite that simple with so many manufactures offering a wide range of bikes, but it's a great place to start.
Good mountain bikes start at around £250, which might not sound cheap but for that money you'll get a bike that you'll enjoy riding and one that will handle the off-road sections you throw at it.
If you're looking at getting serious, then you'll hit the £500 - £1000 price bracket. Here you'll get a bike that really gives you an edge both on and off-road and you'll start to get a few more gadgets to play with too.
Heading up over the £1000 mark, you'll find that bikes tend to be fall into several categories: hardtail, cross-country (XC), full suspension cross-country, freeride (aka all mountain) and downhill (DH).
The bike you choose really depends on your style of riding and how much riding you plan on doing. If you're unsure and looking for a mountain bike that will do a bit of everything, then go for a freeride or all mountain bike - these are designed to do a bit of everything and modern freeride bikes really are the best option for the mountain biker looking to do a bit of everything.
This is where things really get exciting. For the purist the good news is that there are manufactures out there making simple no frills bikes.
For the modern gadget freak the better news is that modern bikes are loaded with toys to make you go faster and rider harder than ever before. Disc brakes and suspension are now common place on mountain bikes and they make the experience a whole lot better.
Of course they add to the choices when it comes to picking a new bike but as you'd expect as you climb the price ladder the choice and spec gives you a choice of equipment utilising a range of exotic materials and technology that would make an F1 driver green with envy.
The Mountain Bike - Chris Juden - CTC Technical Officer
The basic, common or garden mountain-bike has:
- fat (40 to 60mm) knobbly tyres for cushioning (tyres are front-line suspension) on rough surfaces and flotation plus grip on soft surfaces.
- very low gears (down to 20in) to overcome the drag of ploughing through loose material whilst climbing steep gradients,
- straight handlebars for wrenching the front wheel around obstacles and against the grip of vegetation or mud (wrists in-line maximises leverage),
- stronger frame in case of accidents and nowadays almost all have front suspension at least.
All these features help you deal with challenging terrain.
Actually: the smallish (about 26in overall) diameter tyre does not roll so easily over rough or loose ground as a bigger one might, but a 559mm rim makes for a slightly stronger wheel and provides more clearance for suspension.
So, whilst "29in" (622mm rim) mountain-bikes exist, they have not become popular. Children's mountain-bikes have even smaller 507 (24in), 406 (20in) or 349 (16in) size wheels. (For more about wheel sizes click here.)
The common, low to mid-priced mountain-bike still sells in greater numbers than any other sort of bicycle. It is likely that most of them are never used for their design purpose. Go read about hybrid and trekking bike if your off-road horizons include nothing rougher than canal towpaths and old railways.
Stick with your choice of a mountain-bike if the firm intention is to avoid tarmac – never mind how rough or soft the alternative may be. For extra comfort look at those described as "freeride" mountain-bikes.
All the above provide a fairly upright riding position, befitting the average person not in a hurry. If you want to ride hard and fast offroad you'll want something called a cross-country mountain-bike (look for "XC" in the catalogue). This style provides the more stretched-forward riding position that helps you deliver more force to the pedals – but makes your arms and back hurt if you don't!
If you're a small person it may be best to stick with mountain-bikes even if you have no intention to tackle severe terrain, since the smaller wheels make a better-fitting bike for you. It is always possible to fit smoother, narrower tyres. You could also check out urban mountain-bikes that come with such tyres already.
Cross-Country Mountain Bikes
Cross-Country Mountain Bikes - Ian Warby - Senior Development Officer Off-Road
Chris gives a pretty comprehensive insight into the technical side of a Cross-Country Mountain Bike so there's not a lot more to add on that front.
What to look for? If you're looking to spend a few hours in the saddle out on the trails both ride position and bike weight are crucial. Budget can affect both of these but laying out a little more cash to make sure you have the right bike for the riding your looking to do will pay back in the long term.
If you go for the cheaper full suspension bikes, make sure you know what your getting. Sometimes it's worth going for a better spec hardtail over a low end full suspension bike that might not give you the performance benifits you are looking for.
Cross-Country Mountain Bikes - Chris Juden - CTC Technical Officer
Cross-country mountain-bikes are designed to go as quickly as possible over whatever nature may throw in your path.
A truly competitive "XC" mountain-bike provides a forward-leaning body position close to that of a road-racing bike; and since it has to go uphill fast as well as down, it must be reasonably light. That used to mean a "hardtail" (a mountain-bike with front suspension only) but technology has been refined to the point where more can be gained than is lost by suspending both wheels. Expect between 50 and 100mm (2 to 4 inches) of suspension travel and to pay as quite a lot: lightweight efficiency never comes cheap.
Hardtails are still favoured by many cross-country riders and these light but sturdy bikes provide the best basis for conversion to other uses, e.g. to make a tough commuting bike. If you may want to do this, check that the frame has fixings for a rear carrier, some don't anymore, and that the disc brake isn't in the way (a common problem with cable-operated discs, hydraulic ones are more compact).
Since so many people like to use mountain-bikes on road, manufacturers now provide urban mountain-bikes already fitted out with smooth tyres and a rigid fork.
The riding position on an XC racing mountain-bike, whilst efficient, is not so comfortable if you ride slowly. A shorter, raised handlebar stem or riser bar (handlebar where the grips are higher than the centre) will give a more relaxed ride, or look at freeride bikes.
Freeride Mountain Bikes
Freeride Mountain Bikes - Ian Warby - Senior Development Officer Off-Road
Freeride Mountain Bikes have really opened up a whole new range of possibilies of what can be done and where you can go on a mountain bike.
Freeride or All Mountian Bikes are packed with a range of features and components designed to help you go faster and make the most of your handling skills over the toughest technical terrian. With between 120mm - 200mm of suspension travel, powerful disc breaks and suspension design that puts the power through the rear wheel, rather than into the shock, these bikes can do anything and everything when it comes to riding off-road.
What to look out for? Freeride bikes aren't cheap but it's worth investing in a good one. Take you time to find the model and spec that suits your riding style (some are better at going down and up hill than others).
Remember to work in the cost of maintaining your suspension. It won't cost the earth and there a plenty of companies out there that offer a great service. Remember it's your riding skills that count, the bike will help but you'll still need the skills to tackle the toughest terrain; don't expect the bike to do it for you.
It's also worth remembering if you're pushing you limits it's worth investing in a good helmet and some body armour.
Freeride Mountain Bikes - Chris Juden - CTC Technical Officer
"Freeride" is marketingspeak for aimlessly messing about on a mountain-bike. It's what mountain-biking was all about before things got all serious and competitive.
So a freeride mountain-bike has a reasonably upright riding position, just like any cheap and basic mountain-bike. The big change since the old days is full suspension – and suspension front and rear that actually works isn't cheap!
The amount of suspension travel is a trade-off between more to swallow bigger bumps and less to minimise weight and energy-sapping bobbing – so you can get some enjoyment out of riding uphill too! Expect between 100 and 140mm (4 or 5 inches) and a specification that's a step up from basic. Disc brakes are the norm on freeride bikes.
These attributes make a bike that's more than a mere plaything. A freeride mountain-bike will also provide a most comfortable ride to anyone who wishes to enjoy riding over rough ground and isn't in too much of a hurry.


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Moderators: Timko, Fritz, Solty, Booter, Blake_T, Frank Delicious
JHern wrote:The logos on the shirts are terrible!
discspeed wrote:I also heard that this is affecting one or several top Innova pros, and that Innova is pissed. So pissed that they making their team members (not Climo though) write a letter about why they want to represent Innova and then they will decide who they want to keep...Sounds crazy, but it was from a pretty reputable source. I guess we will eventually know for sure because if all I was told was true it will be one of the biggest shakeups our sport has seen.
Frank Delicious wrote:I heard there is going to be a death match to see who gets to go to this new company. A disc golf Thunderdome.
Frank Delicious wrote:Every groove is a unique snowflake of suck.
discspeed wrote:I think Innova and the sport would be better served if they only sponsored a few guys, but actually paid all their touring expenses along with bonuses for winning/placing...
bcr123psu wrote:Frank Delicious wrote:I heard there is going to be a death match to see who gets to go to this new company. A disc golf Thunderdome.
With or without Tina Turner?
cubeofsoup wrote:Bringing the unsubstantiated DGCR rumor mill over to DGR eh?
The only thing you get when you google "disc golf prodigy" is a bunch of shitty youtube videos and some half assed cafe-press shirts. Can you show us what you are referencing?
Users browsing this forum: Google [Bot] and 2 guests


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Put a gnarly new twist on perches with all-natural Lima Root. It's a perch, it's a toy, you can hang toys from it, and it's a great climbing prospect. Hang Wacky Wood perches vertically in cage for climbing opportunities that stimulate and challenge your bird. Perch may also be placed across entire cage and rested on bars as a regular perch. Irregular shapes provide visual interest as well as vital foot exercise and conditioning. Dense natural wood perches withstand chew damage and are rigorously cleaned and sterilized. 14" and 24" include mounting hardware, but for ease of hanging, we recommend Metal Quick Links. For 36", we suggest ¼" or smaller Cotton Rope.
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The Euro Looks Headed for a Haircut
Risk assets in general, and the euro in particular, have enjoyed a substantial rally, with the beleaguered currency once again regaining the 1.30 handle against the U.S. dollar. Much of this positive action can be attributed to Tuesday's agreement in Brussels by the European finance ministers on terms for the dissemination of a tranche of bailout money for Greece.
The markets celebrated this victory before the game ended -- the run-up in risk assets preceded the actual agreement. This morning, the bill was approved by Germany's parliament, and that ignited the final push above 1.30....541 more words left in this article. To read them, just click below and try Real Money FREE for 14 days.
There's no substitute for a trading floor to get great ideas, so Jim Cramer created a better one at Real Money and blogs there exclusively. We then added legendary hedge fund manager, Doug Kass, with his exclusive Daily Diary and best investing ideas. Staffed with more than 4 dozen investing pros, money managers, journalists and analysts, Real Money Pro gives you a flood of opinions, analysis and actionable trading advice found nowhere else, and allows you to interact directly with each expert.
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Leading Venture Philanthropy Group Launches New Website
NEW YORK—The Tufenkian Foundation, one of the leading philanthropies working toward a just, democratic, and vibrant Armenia, has launched a new website at www.TufenkianFoundation.org.
The website offers background information on the Foundation, its history, and its guiding principles; it also provides the latest news from the Foundation and its partners, as well as up-to-date reports on every project it has in active development.
The new website is designed not just as a way to track the Foundation's progress, but also to give people worldwide a more robust understanding of the challenges facing Armenia and Nagorno-Karabagh. By providing information on the goals of each project and a regular stream of news from the region, TufenkianFoundation.org promises to grow into a solid resource promoting awareness and prompting action.
The website also guides individuals and groups that want to contribute to building a more vibrant Armenia, matching them to projects that meet specific, targeted needs. The website offers information on upcoming projects in need of sponsorship, as well as information for individuals and organizations interested in forming strategic partnerships.
The Tufenkian Foundation is part of the Tufenkian family of companies—which also includes Tufenkian Artisan Carpets, Tufenkian Heritage Hotels and Harvest Song Preserves (www.Tufenkian.com)—all of which are dedicated to leading their fields in both quality and in social and environmental responsibility.
For more information on the Tufenkian Foundation, please visit www.TufenkianFoundation.org.


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The Fall Members Show at the St. Augustine Art Association is a juried, bi-annual exhibition showcasing works in varied styles and media created by the members.
An Opening Reception will be held September 2 during First Friday Art Walk with an Awards Ceremony at 7pm.
Gallery Hours:
Tue-Sat: Noon to 4pm
Sundays: 2-5pm
Free Admission
For additional information, visit the Art Association's website or call 904-824-2310.


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Hard to SeeRiddles are little poems or phrases that pose a question that needs answering. Riddles frequently rhyme, but this is not a requirement.
In forests I'm leafy
In deserts I'm like sand
You'll find it hard to see me
Even if I'm in your hand
AnswerA chameleon!
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My philosophy is to provide updated technical skills and service. This begins with proper training and credentialling that includes certification by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. Continuing education and new developments such as skin care services, laser surgery and computer imaging are examples of the updating of my practice. My staff is trained and credentialled for duties they perform and is dedicated to serve my patients. Our team is dedicated to patient satisfaction.
Scotts Valley Office: Monday through Friday, 8:30am to 5:00pm Monterey Office: Tuesday 9:00am to noon and Friday 2:00pm to 5:00pm.
All Cosmetic Surgery
Breast Reconstruction
Post Bariatric Body Contouring
Medical Spa Services
Cosmetic consultation fees are deducted from the surgicial fees, when surgery is scheduled
Most of my outpatient surgery is performed at Santa Cruz Surgery Center in Santa Cruz or at Community Hospital of the Monterey Peninsula in Monterey.
- Cook County Hosp., Chicago, Internship 1962-1963
- Cook County Hosp., Chicago, Gen. Surg. Res. 1963-1964
- St. Mary's Hosp., San Francisco, Gen.Surg. 1964-1966
- St. Francis Hosp., San Francisco,Plastic Surgery 1966-1969
- American Board of Plastic Surgery 1975
- American Society of Plastic Surgeons
- American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons
- California Society of Plastic Surgeons
- American Medical Association
- California Medical Association
- Santa Cruz County Medical Society
- Monterey County Medical Society
- American Society for Laser Medicine & Surgery, Inc
- Community Hospital of the Monterey Peninsula
- Dominican Santa Cruz Hospital
- Sutter Maternity & Surgery Center
- Watsonville Community Hospital