text:
CM's Wiercioch, Schram, Chishko claim PIAA wrestling titles
Threes were wild for Canon-McMillan during the PIAA Class AAA wrestling tournament at the Giant Center in Hershey as the Big Macs crowned three state champions. Connor Schram, Solomon Chishko and Cody Wiercioch captured gold medals
According to wrestling guru and Observer-Reporter sports writer Joe Tuscano, the last time Canon-McMillan sported three champions was 63 years ago when Manuel Pihakis (95), Joe Solomon (145) and Don Haney (154) competed the feat in 1950.
Additionally, the three titles gave the school 39 state championships, one shy of the record of 40 held by Clearfield.
For Wiercioch, his 7-2 triumph over Penncrest's Joe Gartland in the 170-pound final marked his third crown. The senior won his first PIAA title at the Class AA level while wrestling for Charleroi. The four-time finalist has won back-to-back championships for the Big Macs.
The Pitt recruit moved through the tournament with ease. He opened action with a fall at 4:28 against Cody Seibert of Big Spring. After an 11-3 decision against Tom Sleigh from Dubois, Wiercioch whipped Central Dauphin's Colton Peppelmon in the semifinals, 16-6.
In the finals, Wiercioch scored a takedown to take the early lead, 2-0. Though Gartland registered an escape, Wiercioch held a 4-1 lead after the first period.
Wiercioch rolled up a 44-1 record this winter. His lone lose came in the Powerade Tournament in December against Chase Marsteller. Marsteller, who also claimed his third state title, winning the 160-pound weight class.
Wiercioch will now compete in the prestigious Dapper Dan Wrestling Classic set for Sunday, March 17 at the University of Pittsburgh, his future collegiate home.
Meanwhile, Schram ended his scholastic career the way he started…with a state title. A PIAA champion as a freshman, Schram scored his second title with a 5-3 win over Franklin Regional's Michael Kemerer. In the 126-pound final, Schram opened up a 2-1 lead in the first period with a takedown. After two, he lead 5-3, and added an escape to seal the victory in the third.
Schram (44-3) also breezed through his early rounds of competition. After recording an 11-4 win over Dallastown's Rodney Sunday in the opener, the Stanford recruit registered a technical fall, 20-5, against Chase Remenak of Nazareth in the quarterfinals. Schram's 7-3 win over Wyoming's Kyle Krasavage vaulted him into the finals.
Chishko joined Schram and Wiercioch in the winner's circle when he blanked Chris Vassar of Cedar Cliff, 8-0, in the 145-pound finals. He jumped ahead, 4-0, in the first frame and led, 5-0, after two periods. He closed out the third with an escape and a takedown for the major decision.
After missing the entire dual-meet season because of a fractured elbow, Chishko charged back to win the section, district and regional tournaments. He brought a 10-0 record into the finals. In the opener, he scored a technical fall, 17-2, over Garnett Valley's John Dambro then won by decisions against Spring Grove's Mason Bentzel, 5-2, and Clearfield's Nolan Barger, 11-2, to set up the showdown with Vassar.
The Big Macs just missed having four state champions when Dalton Macri dropped a touch decision, 3-1, to Sam Krivus in the 120-pound final. Krivus registered a first-period takedown and escaped with 18 seconds left in the second period to score all the points he needed for the victory.
Though Brendan Price and Angelo Broglia did not experience much success at the state level, going 0-2 in their bouts, Alex Campbell added eighth place in the 220-pound weight class.
With three state champions, a silver medalist and an eighth-place award winner, the Big Macs secured their second straight Class AAA PIAA team title at the individual championships. During the dual-meet season, Canon-McMillan also won team titles at both the district and state level.
In other AAA action involving wrestlers from the Almanac area, Noah Wilps secured sixth in the 170-pound weight class dominated by Wiercioch and Gartland. The Chartiers Valley junior lost to Garland in the semifinals, 8-4.
Mt. Lebanon's Kellan Stout met the same fate against Gartland only in the first round when he dropped a 3-1 decision. Stout, who has won over 35 matches this winter, split his next two matches in the loser's bracket.
In Class AA, three area grapplers had opportunities to take home gold medals but each settled for silver. South Fayette's Seth Carr, Keystone Oaks' Nick Zanetta and Chartiers-Houston's Garrett Vulcano finished as runners-up at 113, 132 and 195.
For complete results visit www.escapesports.com/2013-PIAA/ and for more comprehensive coverage of the finals pick up The Almanac March 13.


text:
SF Intermediate School experiencing delays in progress
While the open house for the South Fayette School District's new intermediate school building is not scheduled until Aug. 10, the district was told the building would be substantially complete by July 22. That is the date that occupancy permits should be issued by, according to Joe Brennan of construction management firm P.J. Dick.
However, the district and school board received a letter dated July 10 from primary contractor Massaro Corporation that disclosed the work on the new building will not be completed by July 22. Joe Tavella of Massaro stated at a July 17 school board meeting that the company is "working with the district to get in by July 22."
School board members asked representatives from Massaro attending the meeting if the district has done anything to impede the work, to which Tavella replied that some change orders have impeded the work as materials have not been delivered on time for the completion date.
The board has been receiving monthly construction updates on the progress of the new building. Fornella pointed out that up until recently, the board has been told the project was a month ahead of schedule.
Joseph Massaro assured the board that certificates of occupancy will be in hand by July 22. "We're going to be done," Massaro said.
Fornella, who toured the building on July 14, told Massaro, "What I saw Sunday was appalling," as far as the amount of work that still needed to be done at that time.
"I understand your anxiety, but we will be done," Massaro said. "I don't know why you are upset the way you are. I think it's a great project," he added.
Fornella added, "July 22 is not a soft deadline, it's a hard deadline. We have to get moved into that building." The board has already conveyed to Massaro that there will be penalties if the district cannot move into the building by that date.
In the July 10 letter, it was stated that tile flooring for the STEAM classroom still needs to be installed and a set of stairs needs to be finished. In order to meet occupancy permit requirements, Tavella told the board that temporary treads and landings will be installed on the stairs. He added the materials from the stairs will not arrive at the site until July 29.
Also, delivery of the custom wall covering for the STEAM classroom is a couple of weeks away, Tavella said.
The digital sign for in front of the building will not arrive on site until Aug. 6, due to a delay in ordering the sign. Representatives from Massaro said the sign was not approved until the morning of July 17 because of the addition of the word "township" to the sign.
Superintendent Dr. Bille Rondinelli pointed out that there was a delay in getting the information on the change to the district for approval.
Tavella said there have been challenges with getting the granite for the clearstory area out of Canada, from where it was ordered. He said it was ordered in the middle of June. Mini-blinds and shades also need to be ordered.
Massaro told the board, "You have our word. We'll get it done."
A walk-through of the building for administrators and board members was scheduled for July 19. The grand opening of the building is set for 9 a.m. Aug. 10.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
When does a little girl cross over into a teenager? Going by dates, it's at 13, when "teen" hooks up with the number and announces itself. But 13 never felt like true teenagerhood to me – and it still doesn't, now that my daughter and her friends are that age.
But they came close last weekend. It was the night of their first semi-formal dance, and for once, all of them were scrubbed and curled and rouged into versions of what they will, very soon, become.
For weeks, my Grace had been trading pictures of dresses over the Internet and Instagram, making sure that when it was her time to choose, her own dress would be both uniformly appropriate but not a duplicate of anyone else's. We shopped online and ordered a pretty purple dress with a flippy skirt and one bedazzled strap crossing the bodice. She raced from the bus stop each afternoon to see if the package had arrived. When it finally did, she tried on the dress. In true 13-year-old style, she hated it for the first 10 minutes and then decided it was perfect.
As the day approached, she took the dress for trial runs around her bedroom, music pounding in the background. I decided it was the perfect marriage of girl and dress. I removed the tags and nipped in the sides with needle and thread.
The day before the dance, she announced that the dress was all wrong, and she couldn't possibly wear it. Instead, she dove into her closet and found a forgotten frock from a dressy event last fall. I was surprised it still fit. It was a strapless champagne chiffon with a sparkly black belt.
Yes, I was a little miffed that I couldn't return the other dress, but remember your first dance? This was a big event.
I fetched her from school and took her to the hair salon for curls and makeup. I wouldn't begin to know how to do a "smoky eye," but the stylist did. And, girl, was it ever dramatic. I might have gone with something a little subtler, but Grace liked it. She kept looking at herself in the visor mirror on the way home.
A group of moms took the girls to dinner before the dance. They all looked twinkly in their updos and bejeweled dresses and their perfect table manners. But they were all too nervous and excited to eat. Grace didn't touch her $14 hamburger.
On the drive up the hill to the school, the girls in the back seat were heard to say, "This will be the best night of our lives." And I knew that even if it didn't turn out to be the ultimate, it would be right up there with the best.
Driving back down the hill, I thought about Grace and her friends, and how 13 is so much more sophisticated now than when I was that age. The makeup and the dresses had given us parents a glimpse of the beauty and poise that, soon enough, will be second nature to them. On that night, they were still playing dress up. I think we were all glad about that.
After the dance, the girls ran into my waiting car. They were laughing, talking so quickly they were out of breath. Apparently, one of their classmates had actually danced to a slow song with a boy.
But not my group.
"During the slow dances, some of us stood on the floor with boys and talked, but we didn't touch each other or anything," one of them said.
And just like that, they were 13 again – not really teenagers yet.
And that's OK with me.
Beth Dolinar can be reached at firstname.lastname@example.com.
Join the conversation
To comment and read comments on the article, please log in as a subscriber
Already a print subscriber? Your current O-R print subscription includes digital access. Fill out the "I am a subscriber" registration form to activate your digital access


text:
Drug pipeline selected content
Trends in HIV Care, Part 2: Antiretrovirals in the Pipeline, HIV/Hepatitis C Virus Coinfection, and Pharmacokinetics of Treatment Adherence—A Roundtable Discussion
Approved Treatments for Osteoporosis and What's in the Pipeline
Along with the release of revised guidelines, several pharmacological therapies have become available or are under investigation to help improve outcomes in patients with osteoporosis.
Medical Costs Higher for Children With Sickle Cell Disease
Children with sickle cell disease (SCD) were shown to have annual medical costs of $9369 (Medicaid) and $13,469 (private insurance), which is significantly higher than that for children without SCD, according to a study led by Djesika D. Amendah, PhD, an economist at the CDC.1 SCD in children resulted in total medical costs of at least $335 million per year in the United States in 2005.
Pharmacists' Perceptions of Drug Reimbursement Rates and Processing Times Among Managed Care Plans
The effect of payment delays on the normal functioning of community pharmacy operations has been documented. We undertook a study to evaluate and compare pharmacists' perception regarding reimbursement rates and processing time for prescription drug claims processed for Medicare Part D, Medicaid, and commercial managed care plans.
Billions of Dollars Are Wasted From Poor Medication-Taking Behaviors
Common behaviors of patients taking prescription drugs, such as forgetfulness and procrastination, may result in wasteful spending of $163 billion annually, according to the recently released 2009 Drug Trend Report from Express Scripts.
IT Investments Save VA Billions
The US Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) invested in health information technology (IT) and produced a net savings of $3.09 billion, according to results of a new study conducted by the Center for Information Technology Leadership (CITL).1
Progress Lags in Infection Prevention and Health Disparities
Little progress has been made in eliminating health care–associated infections (HAIs), according to the 2009 National Healthcare Quality Report and the National Healthcare Disparities Report recently issued by the Department of Health and Human Services' (HHS) Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ).1
By clicking Accept, you agree to become a member of the UBM Medica Community.


text:
I LOVE the rock people! Especially Granita, she totally deserves a figure this time around, as well as Jewelstar!
And did it ever bother anyone else that the original figures would still have an opening on the bottom when in rock form?
If only the 4Hm could solve this problem this time around—maybe they could include a new "rock" sheild that could double as a snap-in cover for that opening? I think that might work!
Plus, wouldn't it be cool if they each came with a shield to go with their light blaster guns?


text:
I think I want all of the following as separate figures:
- Veena
- Classic Falcon Sorceress
- 200X styled Sorceress
Don't want compromises there.
I always liked the classic look of Sorceress, so the 200X was a little dissapointed concept for me, but I always liked the egyptian look.
In order to rescue a cool concept, the 200X Sorceress can becomes the Queen Veena, original sorceress and wife of King Grayskull.
What do you think about?
I think I want all of the following as separate figures:
- Veena
- Classic Falcon Sorceress
- 200X styled Sorceress
Don't want compromises there.
We don't stop playing because we grow old, we grow old because we stop playing. -George Bernard Shaw
Nate Baertsch Illustration Blog
I would get Veena. I don't mind if we just get the sorceress but I'd like to see a complete collection of the power of Grayskull.
Veena would be a quite cool MotUC figure. I'd appreciate to see her in the line!
Secret Guardian & Spirit Guide
Visit my artworks gallery: http://queengrayskull.deviantart.com
and my Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/queengrayskull
My personal blog: http://www.facebook.com/grayskullguardian
Besides: http://www.facebook.com/grayskullguide
Last edited by Jon-O; October 22, 2010 at 03:32pm.
I love an all inclusive canon!
Grayskull neds his Queen....
As someone who is not a follower of the 2002 era, I don't have much interest in 2002 characters being drawn into the Classics.
However, I thought the way Emiliano and Val portrayed the Veena character in their comics of that era was superb.
I think the Pharaonic styling is a great idea, and if we accept the role of the Sorceress has been held by different women over the centuries, there is no reason not to include Veena in the Classics.
Therefore I offer my support to Veena and will be happy to make her my exception to the rule. I would like Emiliano and Val's design to be used though - not the simplified MYP style.
Even as an original era fan, I never liked the 'feathered' Sorceress, because the theme of her changing into Zoar was completely contrary to the original idea that Zoar was male and distinct from the Sorceress.
For me the truest representation of the Sorceress will always be the Teela version with her snake headdress.
Vaults of Grayskull - www.vaultsofgrayskull.co.uk
I just realised this wasn't posted in the Veena thread (it's from the 15 Dec 2010 Q&As)...
a live trademark for "VEENA THE DANCE GURU", filed January 2009 and granted registration September 2010, registered to Brownstone Babies LLC in the category "toys, namely, dolls and doll accessories including doll travel kits". I presume that if there's a problem, that must be the source.
And, no, if they can't do "VEENA", they wouldn't be able to do "Queen Veena" or "Sorceress Veena". That only works with words that (1) are considered too generic to trademark, or (2) they do hold a trademark on, but they fear that if anyone challenged it there would be a ruling that the word was too generic to trademark and their TM would be cancelled. Hasbro wouldn't get away with "Autobot He-Man", or "Decepticon Skeletor" (hell, they got an application for "Airachnid" struck down as "too similar" to Mattel's "Arachnoid" trademark). "Queen Grayskull" or "First Sorceress" in the future, maybe, but some way down the road.
[On the real name, the simplest way, and the way most companies would do it, would be to just say "Real name: Veena" and not claim TM - for a word in a blurb on the back of the card (as opposed to the name they sell the figure under), they'd have no trouble [disclaimer: IANAL]. Mattel are fairly obsessive about claiming TM & ® about these things though, to the point of doing so mid-paragraph (which NO-ONE else does...).]
I must confess, I'm a bit confused about the Veena TM nonsense. Veena is a real name. There's an actress named Veena Malik. I think Veena is also a last name, not 100% on that one.
Anyway, it would be like TMing "Laura" and then nobody can make a toy containing that name. Doesn't make sense.
EDIT: More Veena name info:
http://www.pokemyname.com/firstname_44_veena.htmVEENA is the most popular 1019.th name in USA (... 1017.sunita , 1018.helena , 1019.veena , 1020.bridget , 1021.dong ...). One in every 7,165 Americans is named VEENA and popularity of name VEENA is 139.56 people per million.
If we compare the popularity statistics of VEENA to USA's population statistics, we can estimate that as of February.01.2011 19:11 there are 43,434 people named as VEENA in the United States and the number is increasing by 367 people every year.
Usage of veena as a first name is 97.96% and its usage as a middle name is 2.04%. The sum of alphabetical order of letters in VEENA is 47 and this makes VEENA arithmetic buddies with words like Elated. Add "Courtesy of PokeMyName.com' tag and feel free to distribute, copy, republish this interesting, accurate and also useless report about name VEENA.
I highlighted the important parts. More people are named Veena than Helena. Veena should be fair use as it's a proper name.
Veena's origin is Sanskrit, it means "lute" (vina is Spanish and means vineyard) and is used in Hindi speaking countries. So, this name COULD be a very common name in other places in the world.
Last edited by Darkspecter; February 1, 2011 at 07:18pm.
Take part in Illumina Day! Let people know who she is and help get her in MOTUC.
You can join the Illumina Facebook page here!
I'm ok with Veena, but I hope we don't see 200x Sorceress. I think they look too similar. They took the time to redesign the Sorceress and then they just slapped the same design on another character. Just like King Grayskull/He-Man and Battle Cat/Battle Lion. Now that Zodak is a separate character, I think Veena AND 200x Sorceress would just be way too much.
PoP Variants are part of the vintage line, too! Starburst She-Ra, Shower Power Catra, and Scratchin' Sound Catra for 2015!!!
Definitely would like to see Veena
It's all about being polished when it counts!
Tweet Me!
I've just changed my profile picture because we got Geldor in MOTUC!
I'm all for Veena! I'm not talking about some other random character named Veena either!
I'm hoping for a Disco Skeletor for the next subscription exclusive! Fully flocked!
"I don't like to feel good! I like to feel EVIL!"
The Official 200X Sorceress vs 200X Evil-Lyn 2 Pack Support Thread
The Blonde Teela Thread
Sagitar (Jetlag) Azdar Belzar Chazdar 200X Evil-Lyn 200X Teenage Prince Adam 200X Teenage Teela 200X Sorceress General Rattlor (MYP) 200X King Randor and Queen Marlena 200X Battle Armor King Randor and Battle Armor Queen Marlena Ice Armor He-Man WMD Roboto
I would love to see Veena made over many of the remaining females.
I would love a Veena figure, I've always loved her design, it's much softer/gentler than 200x sorceress. Veena is very reminiscent of classic sorceress to me.
Top wants: 3 main Twiggets, Red Knight, Granita, Hunga the Harpy, Dylamug, Vultak, Enchantress, Kothos, General Tataran, Evil Seed (Filmation), Masque, Sybiline (pack-in Gorgon), Melaktha, Despara, toy Catra, Master Sebrian, Andros, Sorceress NA comic, Kex Queen, Lodar, Green trap Jaw, Pink tri-Klops, pale monkey feet Stratos, Orange Ram man, Pale Man e Faces
Veena's head, in particular, seems like an "interpretation of the vintage design in the 200X style"
I would definitely be up for adding Veena to my MOTUC's collection!!
Take part in Illumina Day! Let people know who she is and help get her in MOTUC.
You can join the Illumina Facebook page here!
I've long been on record as disliking the whole King Grayskull idea (it makes Adam a KG wannabe in a way we likley wouldn't have seen with He-Ro), but I have no problem with the figures being made, and would buy Veena without hesitation. Heck, I got both versions of KG without a moment's regret, so the more, the merrier.
"I will use this power for all the good that can be done, to work for peace, to encourage virtue, and above all, to preserve life in all its forms..." Superman
This feels like that Tree House of Horror episode of Simpsons parodying the Gremlins.
Guy: ...but the doll is haunted.
Homer: That's bad.
Guy: ...but it comes with a free frogurt!
Homer: That's good!
Guy: ...the frogurt is also haunted.
Homer: ....uh....
Guy: That's bad.
Hopefully this ends on a "that's good" though.
Take part in Illumina Day! Let people know who she is and help get her in MOTUC.
You can join the Illumina Facebook page here!
Of course I would like to see Veena made! I would happily buy a Veena figure. She's a critical character in my opinion even though we know very little about her role in the MOTU mythos.


text:
It's been another big year for BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) and the consumerization of IT. Apple moved boldly forward and yet lost a step in both market share and esteem. Microsoft staked a claim in the tablet and phone markets. Android came to dominate the smartphone market and make tablet inroads. 4G and the cloud have become more common and big companies stepped in to take control of mobile security. Here are what we think to be the 10 most important developments for the BYOD phenomenon in 2012.
1. Apple Revs Products, Including Three New iPads
Apple will exit the year a bit less dominant than it was months ago, but it's still the market-leading brand in many respects. It's become the ubiquitous and safe bet for corporate and ISV support and iPads still dominate the tablet market, although sales figures from the end of 2012 may diminish that dominance.
Apple introduced the iPhone 5 and 3 new iPads this year: The iPad 3 (sorry, make that "iPad 3rd Generation"), the iPad 4 (which Apple is calling "iPad with Retina display"), and the iPad mini. Many competitors are trying to sustain Apple's premium pricing on tablets, although the iPhone is selling at a clear premium over competitive phones.
AAPL stock may have lost a great deal in the last few months, but it's still up a healthy amount from the 2011 year-end close of 405.00.
2. The Rise of Android Market Share
For a variety of reasons, Android will end the year clearly on top of the smartphone market, at least in terms of market share. Tech market research firm IDC actually says Android devices have two-thirds of the market share in unit sales. There's no reason to expect this to change radically any time soon.
For this reason, Android is the only mobile platform with an app collection to rival Apple's, and worldwide carriers and handset makers can offer affordable smartphones in markets where customers can't afford Apple's prices. Even people who can afford Apple in the U.S. and other wealthier countries choose high-end Android phones, such the Samsung Galaxy S III, in large numbers.
Straightforward Android tablets, like those from Samsung, have small market share compared to the iPad, but the Kindle Fire and Kindle Fire HD, which run a customized Android version and are locked to Amazon's app store, have sold millions of units. That kind of customization to the needs of the OEM is what makes Android so appealing to so many manufacturers and consumers.
3. The Rise of Android Threats
At the same rate that Android market share is growing, so does the presence of malicious software and other threats on the platform. 2012 brought a steady stream of Android threat stories raising the question of what Android users should do, if anything, about it.
The lion's share of the threats are not on the official Google Play store, but rather on third-party stores, largely those abroad and primarily in the far east. But Google Play has not been immune, as Google does not scrutinize app submissions to the same degree as Apple. Incredibly, in the same year that Google bought VirusTotal, the best malware research tool on the planet, the tech giant still does not use it to test app submissions to its store.
As a result, a security software industry for Android has emerged and most of the big antivirus players are in it. Such software doesn't exist on Apple's iOS both because the threat is so much smaller on that platform and because Apple doesn't cooperate in the development of such programs
4. Microsoft Attempts to Redefine Tablets as PCs
Microsoft stepped into the market as the new kid in Tablet Town and it didn't want to come in as just another tablet platform. So Microsoft is attempting to change the terms of comparison by redefining tablets as PCs. It's a credible argument. Will it work? We don't know yet.
There are two justifications for Microsoft's redefinition: First, tablets running Windows 8 Pro on Intel-based CPUs run existing Windows software, software designed for PCs, in addition to new Windows 8 style (formerly Metro style) apps. The new apps are all that run on ARM-based Windows RT systems like the heavily-advertised Microsoft Surface. The ability to run all those Windows programs is a major advantage over iOS and Android which, for the most part, require all-new development.
The second basis for redefining tablets as PCs is that Microsoft and its OEMs are mostly designing their tablets as hybrid touch/keyboard-mouse systems. Consider the Surface: It's a tablet, but with the optional keyboard you can also use it as a notebook with a full keyboard and touchpad. This is a necessary outgrowth of the ability to support existing Windows software, which doesn't support touch, but even with touch apps it's handy to be able to use a full keyboard some times. OEMs are showing a wave of creativity, trying to find the best "hybrid" tablet/PC designs.
So the redefinition works this way: Tablets are PCs. Any tablets that don't let you do PC things, like keyboard and mouse operations on conventional apps, are deficient. If Microsoft can talk buyers, especially business buyers, into looking at things this way, then Apple and Android vendors have a big problem, because they have nothing with which to counter Microsoft's platform.
Intel-based Windows 8 hybrids are coming slower to market than the ARM-based ones, partly because of slow delivery by Intel of the top-line chip sets. But by this time next year Windows 8 may have completely disrupted the tablet market than Apple created.
Next Page: Windows Phones, 4G and BlackBerry


text:
Bois Ordinaires
Jean Grosperrin -1991- Bois Ordinaires
Collection Cognac – Artisan Vintage
1991 Bois Ordinaires from the Island of OléronLearn More
This vintage cognac (aged under state control since its distillation) is a fabulous expression of this soil, with the flavours of the wild coast, sunny beach and soft spices (or suntan cream?).Excl. Tax: €74.17 Incl. Tax: €89.00
Out of stock


text:
Forgotten password?
By clicking JOIN US I accept the privacy policy.
I accept the H&M Club Terms & conditions and I am 16 years or older. I want to receive newsletters including fashion, inspiration and offers, and I accept the Privacy Policy.
5-pocket ankle-length jeans in washed stretch denim with a high waist, zip fly with a button and skinny legs.
Delivery: Shipping is available to residential address or other address in Mainland China, in accordance with your selected delivery option. Unfortunately we are unable to deliver to Hong Kong, Macau or Taiwan. Payment: We accept card payments via MasterCard and Visa. You can also select to pay by Alipay, Bank transfer, China Union Pay via Online or Telephone or H&M giftcard.


text:
Follow the clues to find the mystery number.
What do the digits in the number fifteen add up to? How many other
numbers have digits with the same total but no zeros?
A church hymn book contains 700 hymns. The numbers of the hymns are
displayed by combining special small single-digit boards. What is
the minimum number of small boards that is needed?


text:
CALIFORNIA – The men's basketball teams at California and Indiana have played some of the most important, and most memorable, games in PSAC history.
During a long stretch of years, in the not-too-distant past, a Cal-IUP game meant that at least a West Division title was on the line.
While the stakes were not as high Wednesday night at Cal's Convention Center, the Vulcans and Crimson Hawks played a game that almost added the most unlikely chapter to the rivalry.
IUP, ranked No. 16 in the NCAA Division II, forged a 22-point lead less than 12 minutes into the game and seemed to be headed for an easy victory that would keep the Crimson Hawks in a tie for first place in the division.
California, however, was determined to use the final 28 minutes to its advantage and almost pulled off a stunning victory. The Vulcans erased the huge deficit and took a two-point lead with two minutes remaining. IUP, however, made seven of eight free throws in the final 66 seconds and held off California, 70-68.
The game wasn't decided until a three-pointer by Cal guard Keith Lowe bounced off the rim as time expired.
While the comeback by the Vulcans (5-5, 6-8) was indeed thrilling, it only made the loss more even more frustrating.
"You can't spot a team 22 points," Cal coach Bill Brown said. "It all starts with the beginning of the game. We don't have the experience or the personnel to gradually work our way into a game.
"We competed better in the second half. We started rebounding better. But we can't give a team as efficient as IUP the opportunity to take wide-open shots because they don't take bad shots."
Many of the shots IUP (8-2, 12-2) took in the first 12 minutes found their way through the basket. The Crimson Hawks led 20-5 and 29-7 before a basket by Cal's Mitchell Weedon seemed to signal that it was time for the Vulcans to start playing.
Cal tightened its defense, began making shots and pulled to within 40-30 at halftime. The momentum stayed with the Vulcans in the second half, and Cal pulled to within 61-59 on a three-pointer by Tyrone Steals. Quentin Harding then made consecutive baskets, the latter a jumper from the free-throw line, to give Cal a stunning 63-61 lead with 2:23 left.
The lead didn't last long as IUP's Scooter Renkin tied it at 63-63 by making a jump shot, and Anthony Wells' two free throws gave the Crimson Hawks the lead for good with 1:06 left. IUP made seven consecutive free throws down the stretch before Wells missed one with 3.7 seconds to play, giving Cal a chance for a dramatic victory.
The Vulcans, without the benefit of a timeout, were able to get the ball upcourt quickly and Lowe, the Vulcans' leading scorer, raced up the right sideline. He lofted a 21-foot jumper between two defenders that bounced off the back of the rim as the buzzer sounded.
"After getting the rebound with 3.7 seconds left, we couldn't have asked for a better shot, and we had the perfect guy taking it," Brown said. "Eight out of 10 times, that shot goes down."
For the Vulcans, it was their third consecutive game decided by three points or fewer. They have lost two of those down-to-the-wire contests.
"That was a typical game in that we didn't do the small things," Brown said. "Two-point games are very difficult, but I hope the young men can take something from this one."
The loss leaves Cal tied with Edinboro for fifth place in the West, one game ahead of Lock Haven and two in front of last-place Clarion. The PSAC has expanded its postseason tournament this year to 12 teams, with the top six in each division qualifying.
"We still control our own destiny," Brown said. "At least we don't have to put it in anyone else's hands."
Tynell Fortune led Cal with 12 points. Lowe followed with 11 points and five assists, and Harding and Jake Jacubec each had 10 points. Jacubec made a clutch three-pointer with 46 seconds left that pulled the Vulcans to within 67-66.
Renkin paced IUP with 16 points. Wells scored 13 points and Marcel Souberbielle had 10. Blake Vedder, IUP's 7-for-3 junior center, a transfer from Rhode Island, played six minutes but did not score or grab a rebound.
Join the conversation
To comment and read comments on the article, please log in as a subscriber
Already a print subscriber? Your current O-R print subscription includes digital access. Fill out the "I am a subscriber" registration form to activate your digital access


text:
Central Valley kills SF ladies playoff hopes; not spirit & spunk
South Fayette demonstrated a no-quit attitude in its 59-50 loss to Central Valley in a first-round WPIAL Class AAA girls' basketball playoff game that will serve the Lady Lions long into the future.
See, though the Lady Lions ended their season with a 14-8 slate, they return nine players, six freshmen, two sophomores and one junior from their roster. They graduate six seniors, starters Shannon Gillespie, Caitlin McLuckie and Kristen Hardt, as well as Danielle Kirker, Mikenna Miller and Rachel Closky.
In falling to the Warriors, the Lady Lions demonstrated grit and determination as they attempted to reverse a 44-34 decision earlier this season during the C.J. Betters Tournament. Each time Central Valley threatened to run away with the contest, South Fayette calmly climbed back into the game.
After edging ahead, 12-10, after one frame, the Lions fell behind, 24-16. During the Warriors' 12-2 run, Madalena Rowan flexed her muscle. She scored eight points in the spree.
After closing the gap to 26-20 by intermission, South Fayette exploded into the lead, 33-32, with 3:26 to play in the third quarter. The Lions took advantage of Kianna Law's exit from the contest. The 6-1 junior center picked up her fifth foul on a technical with 4:42 to go in the frame.
Sophomore Lauren Crites connected on one of the free throws and Hardt buried a 3-pointer to give SF a 31-30 edge with 4:04 remaining in the frame. After a hoop by Rowan, Crites came back with another bucket, affording SF its last lead of the game.
The Warriors, indeed, went on the warpath, reeling off eight straight, five by Rowan. By the end of CV's 17-2 run, Rowan had registered her 27th point on her way to 35, Kayla Schwartz had knocked down a pair of 3-pointers for her six in the game and Seairra Barrett was on 12 points into her 14 tallies for the contest.
SF used three long-range shots to narrow the 14-point gap, 49-35, but drew no closer than nine as Central Valley clinched the victory at the line. The Warriors scored eight free throws down the stretch.
In the game, Hardt finished with 13 points. Gillespie and Mindy Wells followed with nine each. Crites supplied seven markers while McLuckie and freshman Autumn Mozick finished with five and four points respectively.
In addition to starters Crites and Wells, SF head coach Matt Bacco welcomes back Mikayla Fetchet to next year's club. The freshman saw plenty of action against Central Valley.
In addition to Mozick and Fetchet, Emily Anderson, Jessica Antoszewski, Marissa France and Emily Bryan are ninth graders on the roster. Chelsae Hughes is the lone junior.


text:
Celebrate with 45 Holiday Party Recipes
Sparkling Cranberry Brie Bites [1]
This festive holiday appetizer couldn't be simpler. Find easy-to-slice logs of Brie at large supermarkets. The common brand President is available at Super Target.
Mediterranean Eight-Layered Dip [5]
The day before you serve this layered dip, prepare the tomato mixture, hummus and tapenade. Cover and refrigerate separately until you're ready to layer and serve the dip. To save time, use purchased hummus.
Parmesan-Crusted Goat Cheese with Basil Oil [9]
This beautiful and unusual recipe makes one small cheese ball, but easily doubles or triples to make multiple for a party. The recipe comes from Indiana-based Annie Marshall of the blog Annie's Eats.
Jerry Thomas' Champagne Punch [13]
At her bar Myrtle's Punch House in Cincinnati, Molly Wellman serves a mix of new and historical punches. Dating to the 1800s, this recipe is easy, breezy, pink and fruity—and still completely sophisticated.
Cucumber Bites with Herbed Cheese and Salmon Mousse [17]
The recipe makes half the bites with pink salmon mousse filling and half with white herbed cheese. If you like, streamline by choosing just one filling and doubling its ingredients. This recipe comes from Annie Marshall of the Indianapolis-based blog Annie's Eats.
Tangy Sour Cream and Onion Dip [21]
Onion dip is a classic for a reason—and this 100 percent homemade version is one of the best we've tasted. It's fab with potato chips, of course, but we also love it with crisp Romaine or Little Gem lettuce leaves for a lighter twist.
Pear-Shape Sake Cheese Ball [25]
Cream cheese, Camembert and cheddar bring big cheese flavor to this appetizer with a hint of sake, the Japanese rice wine. Let the cheese and butter come to room temperature for easy mixing.
Turkey Pesto Sliders [29]
These six-ingredient party sandwiches are simple and delicious. The recipe comes from Annie Marshall of the Indianapolis-based blog Annie's Eats.
Turkey Pesto Sliders [30]
Sausage-and-Spinach Stuffed Mushrooms [33]
Unlike most stuffed mushroom recipes, these savory sausage-filled gems don't contain cheese, so they're a great choice for people avoiding dairy. The recipe comes from Annie Marshall of the Indianapolis-based blog Annie's Eats.
Creamy Crab Rangoon Dip with Wonton Chips [37]
The chips are easy and definitely add to the dip's appeal, but rice crackers, sugar snap peas, celery sticks and baby bok choy leaves all make good Asian-inspired dippers.
Wasabi Almonds and Popcorn [41]
If you'd like to cut additional fat from this zesty snack mix, use five sprays of butter-flavor nonstick spray instead of butter. Be sure to add the spray right before eating to prevent the popcorn from getting soggy.
Ham Sliders [45]
This crowd-pleasing party recipe comes from the Midwest Living® Culinary and Craft School at Silver Dollar City in Branson, Missouri. They are sweet, salty and highly addictive! Plus, you can assemble the sandwiches a day early for easy party prep.
Ham Sliders [46]
Caramel-Hazelnut Café Mocha [49]
Melted Nutella. Need we say more? Our updated version of hot chocolate is made in a slow cooker, just for kicks, and after cooking, can be kept on the warm setting for one hour.
Fiesta Dip [53]
For an appetizer in minutes, Wendy Porterfield of the Washington House Inn in Cedarburg, Wisconsin, bakes her cheesy dip for 10 minutes, stirs, then spoons it into pre-baked phyllo shells. Then, she bakes the shells 5 to 10 minutes more. "The phyllo cup version makes a great appetizer for a more formal party, where the dip version is great for a crowd," she says.
Fiesta Dip [54]
Baby Citrus Cheesecakes [57]
These cupcake-size treats are a fantastically simple alternative to a full-size cheesecake. You could also garnish them with fresh raspberries or blueberries.
Mexican Seven-Layer Dip [61]
Combine pantry-ready ingredients such as canned bean dip and taco sauce for this easy dip. Serve with tortilla chips.
French Onion Sliders [65]
These totally indulgent sliders pack all the flavor of French onion soup into a tidy little sandwich. The recipe comes from Annie Marshall of the Indianapolis-based blog Annie's Eats.
French Onion Sliders [66]
Ricotta and Parmesan Spread [69]
Fresh herbs season this ridiculously simple spread from BelGioioso Cheese in Wisconsin. It keeps well in the fridge and is delicious with cherry tomatoes or other vegetable dippers, as well as crackers or baguette slices.
Nutella Cherry Hazelnut Fudge [73]
Chocolate-hazelnut spread (Nutella) gives this fudge a smooth texture and luscious nutty flavor. The recipe comes from Annie Marshall of the Indianapolis-based blog Annie's Eats.
Cheese Straws [77]
Paprika-spiced sharp-cheddar crackers look like a bundle of kindling gathered on an appetizer board or standing in a jar. Smoked paprika is becoming more popular but can still be a little hard to find. Look for it at specialty or spice stores or online.
Cheese Straws [78]
Cranberry-Sauced Meatballs Appetizer [81]
Shape and bake the chicken meatballs ahead of time, then pop them in your slow cooker with cranberry and barbecue sauces.
Hot Spinach Artichoke Dip [85]
Blend chopped fresh spinach with cream cheese, sour cream, canned artichoke hearts and three kinds of cheeses for this hot-and-hearty dip. Serve with toasted pita chips, thinly sliced French bread or crackers.
Mulled Cranberry Punch [89]
This blend of cranberry juice, juice concentrate, spices, orange juice and water simmers in your slow cooker.
Eggnog Cheesecake Bars [93]
A spiced graham cracker crust and bourbon-infused egg nog filling give these simple bars a delicious holiday twist. The recipe comes from Annie Marshall of the Indianapolis-based blog Annie's Eats.
Raspberry Truffles [97]
These five-ingredient truffles come together in a snap. Blending jam into the chocolate makes for a subtle fruit flavor perfectly balancing the rich, smooth chocolate. The recipe comes from Annie Marshall of the Indianapolis-based blog Annie's Eats.
Raspberry Truffles [98]
Bacon-Stuffed Mushrooms [101]
This five-ingredient recipe comes from the bacon pros at Nueske's meats in Wisconsin.
Bacon-Stuffed Mushrooms [102]
Cheesy Tomato Snack Mix [105]
We packed this snack mix with extra protein and nutrients by adding soy nuts. You can find plain or flavored roasted soy nuts at large supermarkets or health-food stores.
Cheesy Tomato Snack Mix [106]
Darling Clementine Mocktail [109]
No offense to the classic mimosa, but not everyone wants to booze with their brunch. Enter the Darling Clementine, a tart, fizzy, deliciously pink, nonalcoholic alternative to classic morning cocktails.
Smoked Whitefish Spread [113]
Horseradish adds zing, celery adds crunch and pickles add tang to this addictive cream cheese spread. We prefer to serve it with unsalted crackers or flatbread. Look for smoked whitefish at specialty groceries, or substitute another hot-smoked fish (such as salmon).
Smoked Whitefish Spread [114]
Roasted Vegetable Hummus Dip [117]
Roasting the eggplant, zucchini, sweet pepper, onion and garlic intensifies the flavors of this dip. Try with toasted pita wedges.
Cranberry Margarita [121]
Stir up a pitcher of these rosy margaritas for your next holiday bash. The Simple Syrup recipe makes enough syrup for 30 margaritas but is easily halved or quartered.
Cranberry Margarita [122]
Bacon-Cheddar Cheese Balls [125]
Freshly shredded cheese works better than packaged shredded cheese in a cheese ball. Prepare the cheese mixture the night before so flavors have a chance to blend. Shape and roll in the crumbled bacon or pistachio nuts a few hours before serving.
Thyme-Roasted Grapes [129]
Somewhere on the road from fresh fruit to chutney, you'll find these rubylike beauties, slicked in olive oil and oven-warmed to concentrate their sweetness. They're a perfect match for cheese or cured meats.
Thyme-Roasted Grapes [130]
Appetizing array [133]
For a successful cheese board, mix a hard cheese such as Gruyère, a soft one like Camembert and a blue such as Gorgonzola. Add crackers or bread, fruit such as grapes and apple slices, and preserves.
Thai Chicken Wings with Peanut Sauce [136]
Don't let the short ingredient list fool you: these chicken wings have huge flavor. That's because they're slow-cooked in a zingy garlic-and-ginger peanut sauce, with a pop of lime for good measure.
Feta Custard in Phyllo Cups [140]
A creamy blend of feta cheese, cream cheese, lemon juice, and spices fills store-bought or homemade pastry cups.
Spicy Mustard Stir-Fry Bites for a Crowd [144]
Start this appetizer by stir-frying packaged strips of chicken, pork or beef, then let the strips slow cook in a mix of spicy mustard and fajita seasoning. Fill warmed tortillas, slice and serve!
Heavenly Morel Tarts [148]
Sykora Bakery in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, gave us this morel-mushroom appetizer recipe. These appetizer pastries taste best served fresh from the oven.
Heavenly Morel Tarts [149]
Iowa Buche de Noel [152]
Create a stunning centerpiece for a party dessert buffet with this recipe from a Keokuk, Iowa, cooking school instructor. A buche de Noel or Yule log cake is a traditional French holiday dessert.
Iowa Buche de Noel [153]
Poinsettia Mimosa [156]
This bubbly refresher is our version of a popular yuletide sipper at Marshall Field's Oak Grill in Minneapolis.
Poinsettia Mimosa [157]
Bacon and Cheese-Stuffed Dates [160]
A rich blend of cream cheese, blue cheese, bacon and green onion fills bite-size date halves. Stuffed dates can be prepared up to a day ahead of time and baked just before serving.
Rosemary-Grapefruit Gin Cocktail [164]
Pretty in pink, yes, but this sweet drink has bite, too, thanks to grapefruit's subtle bitterness and the woodsy notes of gin and rosemary. This recipe makes enough rosemary-infused syrup for several cocktails.
Devilishly Good Deviled Eggs [168]
A hint of curry and some chutney elevate these deviled eggs to spectacular. Spoon the filling into a sandwich-size clear plastic bag and snip a corner for easy piping.
Asian-inspired party foods [172]
The crispness of fried wontons and the bite of wasabi alongside cooked tuna and greens create the flair in Sesame Seed-Crusted Tuna Appetizer. Another Asian-inspired specialty: Indian Summer Cocktail, a beautiful green drink with a nice balance of liqueurs and fruit juice.
Sesame Seed-Crusted Tuna Appetizer [173]
Indian Summer Cocktail [174]


text:
Thanks for posting this!
So Faker is an interesting story. He has the lucky - or unlucky - feature of being one of the only figures in all of MOTU lore that is a direct repaint with zero new tooling.
A lot of fans have posted and complained over the years that Faker is never given his due. In the 200X line he was a mail away figure and in Classics he started off as a convention exclusive.
Pretty much he was a candidate for both of these programs because of how easy he was to do logistically. In both cases (in 2002 and in 2008) there was a need for a quick figure to fill a PR need (mail-away slot/con item). And as a deco only character, he became the go-to choice both times (independently, I should add).
It was never anything against Faker, and yes, had he been a normal monthly figure and not a character who could fill a last minute PR program need, he would have gotten a better shake (likely in both lines). I would have loved to give him a second head (maybe with battle damage, à la the Terminator, or a flip-up head to reveal robot parts or something) but just as was needed in 2002, in 2008 we had the opportunity to do a PR slot for NYCC and as a deco-only option (and pretty much the only one we had with the existing tooling for the first seven figures), he was the best/only choice.
One of the other interesting things about Faker is he is one of the few figures in the entire MOTUC line that was not deco'd by the Four Horsemen. When word came that we were going to be attending NYCC that year, the MOTUC team rushed to get a figure ready for the show. Terry did the deco himself and then we just used the existing packaging (due to the rush, there was no time to do a special convention package or anything).
Essentially, he was a pretty easy figure to do. I do remember Terry really having a ball recreating the vintage tape deck sticker on his chest. Martin Arriola, who was Terry's boss and had worked on the vintage line, came over and saw Terry working on the sticker and said, "Hey, I did that back in the day!" It was a cool nostalgia moment. Martin is actually one of the few current employees who worked on the vintage line and one of the nicest guys around. He was very supportive of the line in the early days and it was good to have another member of management in our corner.
Although Faker was originally slotted to be just a NYCC item (with remaining stock perhaps sold online), Mer-Man and Zodac were running very late so we were pretty much forced to use him as a monthly figure in March 2009, but letting him be available "first" at NYCC.
Delays in product would wind up being a bane of my existence for years on MOTUC. It is funny, but 99.9% of the time I personally had nothing to do with almost any delay (from Faker to Demo-Man) but as the "public face" of the brand I tend to take the blunt of fans' anger and frustration (understandably so). I used to think, "Man, if they only knew how much I am working on this line in my spare time just to keep it going!" But nowadays I pretty much just accept that all delays and shipping and customer service issues are 100% my fault in the eyes of the customer. And you know what, that is totally fine. If it means people are angry at me personally but in the end we get more MOTU toys, then it is fine. But man, delays suck and on such a tiny tiny tiny tiny tiny line like MOTUC they are 100% inevitable.
So the Mer-Man and Zodac delay meant we needed to fill the monthly slot. Even though we didn't have a subscription yet, we still wanted to guarantee a figure per month. Thank our lucky starts we had Faker ready for NYCC. If we had not, there would have been no March figure at all. Phew. Just made it though that one!
Before I hit the bio creation tale (which honestly has been told many times already) there is one last "Faker" story.
An early sample that Terry had was not glued properly and the hair piece fell off. It was actually neat because under the hair on the head piece is a T-slot. I brought it over to Terry and asked "what if we actually don't glue the hair on and paint the T-slot to look like a bunch of computer chips?" This way fans could remove the hair and see his "computer brain!"
While a cool idea, by the time it was pitched it was WAY too late to make any changes. Since there wasn't precedent for this, it is not like it was a miss. But man, to this day I wish we could have done that. (Yeah, we could do a Faker 2.0 and give him this feature and a new battle damage head or something, but that would mean bumping another figure and we have so precious few slots as it is that I honestly can't see this happening anytime soon, but hey, you never know. Maybe in a movie year this would be a cool way to refresh him for a retail release?)
So that's about it on Faker. Let's chat a bit about the bios and how they came to be:
After Stratos sold out quickly we green lit more figuress beyond Mer-Man and Hordak. This meant we needed bios too. We didn't want to just churn out the bios one month at a time and write them as we went along (as we did for the first six), for several reasons. Chiefly, as has always been the point of the bios, we wanted to create a storyline that would justify the greatest number of figures possible. We also didn't want to give the impression that we were "making this up as we went along." Fans/customers can see through that in a minute.
From the comments we had already received online from the bios for the first few figures, we knew fans were reading into these bios a lot more than was ever intended. We were not trying to create the definitive cannon to MOTU (which is impossible due to all the different contradictory stories over the years) but rather create a story that would allow us access and justify the highest number of potential toys to make. Other brands like GI Joe or Transformers have many, many different cannons. By creating a new cannon for the MOTUC line, we were essentially doing just this. This was not meant to replace previous cannons, but rather to be a new, exciting direction to take the story in.
Now for starters, I should state that from Day 1 we knew no matter what angle we took, there would be some backlash from customers and fans. I've stated earlier in another blog that we are well aware that our hard core fans hate any "change" but come to embrace new elements in the long term. (Keldor being Skeletor's real name/origin is a great example of something fans hated at first in 2003, but it is now a concept fans embrace for the most part unilaterally). And that is fine. Totally get that. And we knew from Day 1 that all the "new" elements from the bios were the ones that would be the most controversial. This is why we deliberately spaced these elements out, introducing them slowly over the course of the bios (such as naming the power sword, "The Sword of He" but waiting about a year into the bios before introducing this element – even though it was written into the story from Day 1).
With that said, and expecting exactly the reaction the bios received, we set about on an almost insurmountable task of writing bios for all characters in the proposed lineup (through 2016!) together to create one giant storyline to support making the largest variety of figures.
There has been a lot of backlash over the years that the bios are there to "explain away this, or justify that" but in the end, really the main goal of the bios was to provide a story for fans to talk about (which they did/do) since we knew there was no other form of entertainment planned (i.e., a new comic or cartoon) and to again provide justification for more toys.
We started with the list. We had a list of all of the characters we knew we had access to. Knowing Filmation was off limits (at the time) that animated series was completely ignored. We are not saying it did not happen, but we tended to look at it more as the version of the story as told to children (perhaps by a royal bard or something – Songster???) to make the story more kid friendly.
Because we did have access to the 200X series, which essentially was the same story as Filmation (basic concepts, not all the details), it was decided very early on that the 200X storyline would form the backbone of the bios and connect the dots. The 200X story also provided a lot of definitive origins for characters, whether from episodes like Stinkor/Fisto/Kobra Kahn, or from the comic book with Trap Jaw/Mer-Man, etc.)
Additionally, before Ian Richter left Mattel to pursue new opportunities, I met with him in his office and explained what we were doing with the line (Ian was Mattel's rep from the Entertainment group who headed up the 200X animated series from our end). Ian was thrilled to hear we were doing an adult collector-aimed line and he loaded me up with tons of goodies on his way out. Most important, were all of his notes for where the potential third season of the 200X series would have gone. This was the meeting where he really handed over the "keys to Castle Grayskull" to me on his last day with Mattel. I was honored.
Now yes, different creatives on the 200X series had different ideas of where the show was going (i.e., Dean, Gary, etc.), but since we were talking about a Mattel toy line for Classics, the only third season notes we looked at were what Ian provided since these represented what Mattel was going to do with the 200X series, not necessarily what other people involved in the 200X series might have done.
With Ian's notes in hand and access to other early storylines from Don Glut, Michael Halprin, and others (some of which I unearthed during my archive search - see previous blogs) we set about beating out the major points of the "Classics bio story."
Now before I dive in further, I should point out that it was also always intentional that the information in the bios would not be "released" in perfect chronological order. Of course we knew this would be different and would cause some backlash, but, hey, no one had ever tried anything like this before, telling a new story though bios one month at a time, released out of order on the back of toy packages! What a novel idea and approach to storytelling!
Now I am not saying everything that has "never been done" should be done. Hey, no one has tried to make a comic book out of mud and snow, and they probably should not. But in the lack of other entertainment for the brand (i.e., no new mini-comics or cartoon), the bios would provide something for the fans to follow and talk about. And if they were released out of order, it would provide fans with the opportunity to piece them together and create the story in order (which they have -- exactly as we hoped they would!).
And honestly, with that as our goal, we succeeded beyond out hopes. We 100% expected the backlash we got (as I said, all hard core fans shy away from any change) but the idea of the bios was to justify figures and give fans something to talk about. In that sense, we succeeded beyond our hopes.
As we set about writing these, I knew personally that this was not only a HUGE honor, but we were writing them with permission from the fans. Yes, Mattel owns the brand, but it is the fans that have kept the brand alive for years. This was not something done lightly or in haste.
So to start off, with the 200X series and season 3 notes as our backbone of the story, we now went through a lot of the early material from people like Don Glut and Michael Halprin for what other ideas would work. We never intended for the bios to be an all-inclusive continuity, but rather intended to pick some of the best elements from different storylines over the years and include them where they make sense.
It also really helped that many of the figures had definitive bios and origins from either the 200X series (the show, like Stinkor or Fisto, or the comic, like Trap Jaw) or from the 1987 licensor kits. We actually started with these elements and in the case of the 1987 licensor kits, I spent hours literally hand typing out every single licensor kit to try and use as much exact test as possible. These licensor kits also provided the tone and manner of the bios.
Many fans and customers over the years have pointed out that the bios read a bit "childish" or have run-on sentences. To say this was intentional is an understatement! All of the bios were written deliberately to be in the style of the 1987 licensor kit bios. Since these often represented the only published definitive origin for many characters, we wanted to use the wording from the kits word-for-word whenever possible. If a licensor kit bio did not exist, we tried to write one in the style of the kits.
We also deliberately used the single line of text from the back of most vintage figures, trying whenever possible to work this line of text in as the "last line" of each bio. Again, if a figure did not have a vintage figure with a single line of text (like Gygor), we would write a final bio line that was in the style and structure of these single lines.
One of the things that cracked me up was when fans would specifically point out these final lines of the bios and flame about how poorly worded they were. In particular, I remember when Scareglow came out, people would flame the final bio line saying it felt out of place. All the while, this was the one line in his bio that was 100% accurate to the vintage toy! So some loved the new stuff we created for him (since he did not have a 1987 kit bio) but hated the one existing the vintage line we worked in. Oh, well, can't please everyone!
It also really helped that the NA figures had long bios on the back of their cards, too. I also spent hours retyping these by hand so that we could use as much existing copy as possible. Of course, we would need to make up some sentences and ideas to fill in the gaps (or entire bios for characters, again like Gygor) who did not have a vintage figure or licensor kit bio. But there was so much existing copy from these sources and we tried to use it as much as possible, avoiding making up anything "new" where we could. This also kept the tone and manner, (run-on sentences) that were from the vintage days. Like it or hate it, the style did help unify the bios and more importantly let us use as much existing copy as possible.
We also knew from online posts that there were a group of figures fans wanted that contradicted themselves in previous stories. Most notable was King Grayskull and He-Ro. Both characters were originally He-Man's ancestor in different stories (1987 mini-comic vs 200X series episode 35) and we knew we wanted to get to both figures in the new line (well, we already did King Grayskull, so you know what I mean).
So to zero in on this one specific issue, it was proposed that King Grayskull be the origin of the bloodline and He-Ro be the origin of the sword (the one who brings the sword to Eternia). This would allow both characters to play a key role in He-Man's origin.
We also had challenges with characters like Orko. He was originally created for Filmation as a source of comedic relief. Now that he didn't need this role, we really wanted to bump up his importance. Obviously we were not birds with our heads in the sand. Of course we knew this would be "controversial" to older fans. But we also wanted to use the bios to bring the story forward and explore new areas of the world. We didn't want to just stick to the guidelines of what happened in the 200X series and the proposed third season. We wanted to use these bios and the figures to move the brand forward to explore new worlds and new storylines, often leaving them a bit vague in order for future creators and writers to take the helm and have a cool jumping off point to explore.
Wun-Dar and characters based on prototype art were also a challenge. Another goal was to make all of the characters as marketable as possible. Even joke characters were recast as serious players. This way, if the brand ever got to the point of expanding (oh, for example say into a line of mini-figures at retail, or Retro-Action figures, or whatever) that the Classics line's bios would provide more fully marketable characters for us to use, not just characters called "Wonderbread mail-away bootleg figure" or "concept art He-Man." You just can't put characters like this into a potential retail line. But "Wun-Dar – the Savage He-Man" or "Demo-Man – Evil Spirit of Despondos" are way more marketable and their figure sales have proven this.
In the end, I could not be more proud of how the bios turned out. To this day, we really have not changed much from the draft that was written around the time of Strato's sell-out.
After the first 200 or so bios were written, they were sent to the Mattel legal team, the Entertainment team (Ian's old team) and the Design and Marketing team. We also sent them off to the Horsemen for their input.
And much like the rollout and release schedule, we received almost no comments. Overwhelmingly, the bios served their intended purpose:
1: Include the greatest number of characters possible in order to justify the greatest number of figures (potentially) to keep MOTUC going as long as possible (knowing we would burn through the vintage toys in time).
2: Use the best elements from existing stories based primarily around the 200X series storyline knowing the new bios were not a definitive cannon but a new story.
3: Use as much existing copy as possible from the 1987 kits, vintage figure backs and NA bio copy and use these to set the tone and wording of the bios (again, hence the run-on sentences and childish elements).
4: Create new story elements to help bridge gaps and/or make joke/concept characters marketable in the long term.
5: Introduce new elements/times/locations in order to move the brand forward.
6: Give fans something to talk about in lieu of new entertainment being available (even if they were only talking smack – as Oscar Wilde says, the only thing worse than being talked about is not being talked about!).
7: Release them purposely out of order as a new way of telling a story. Something no one had tried before letting fans enjoy (or hate) putting them together in order.
Given these goals, I would say we succeeded beyond out hopes. Yes, there are absolutely some fans who HATE the new bios. And to say this was expected is an understatement. But it is kinda interesting how the "hate" tends to be online only. (Customers are usually a lot more blunt when they can be at home posting using an avatar.) At conventions, the overwhelming feedback live in person has been the opposite, with fans coming out asking how we put up with all the online hate and how much they love the bios!
It is also interesting to gage the success of the bios on the number of requests for figures from concepts first introduced in bio form. The Fighting Foe Men and Demo-Man are both great examples. Both were introduced first in the bios, but since then there have been quite a large number of fans asking for them as toys (sometimes, as in the case with the Foe Men, not even knowing who they are – we do by the way! ). – And yes, we also knew there were fans asking us to never do a Demo-Man figure, but he actually wound up being one of our best sellers of all 2011! We sold more Demo-Man figures than we did Snout Spout or Bubble Power She-Ra that quarter.
Oh, I should also end this entry (in regard to the bios) on a few mistakes that 100% did happen. At first we had the time span between King Grayskull and He-Man to be 500 years. This was changed after a while to 5,000 years per the entertainment group. We knew we had several characters we wanted alive for King Grayskull and He-Man's time, and at first 500 years felt like a better time span. But after rethinking it, the Entertainment group was totally right and 5,000 years felt more epic, even if it did mean having several characters be really old (or preserved through magic making them ageless!).
The other big, big mistake was on Tytus' bio. His bio was one of those turnkey bios that was supposed to clear up a lot of order of event issues (much like Thunderpunch He-Man will). We actually messed up multiple times on his bio, first reversing the order of the Tree Towers being built and Castle Grayskull following. We also messed up the time line by "killing Tytus off" in the First Ultimate Battleground. This proved a mistake because we also wanted Tytus and the giants to be the "unknown hands that helped build Castle Grayskull" (per Glut's mini-comic) Because the Castle was built after the First Ultimate Battleground it didn't work to have Tytus die in the battle. It was felt it would be more important to have him help build the Castle vs. having him be one of the casualties of the battle. To "correct" this we just removed the final line from his bio. This was totally my fault, and my biggest and almost only regret with the bios. Hopefully, with this correction, the timeline of events is easier to follow. For those I threw off with this error, I am so sorry. It was a case of biting off more than we could chew!
So while the bios were expected to get exactly the reaction they got, they have helped us give fans something to talk about each month, a way to justify more figures in the line, and have added something new and fun with a new way of storytelling never tried before. They won't be perfect, but we love them and plan to continue them for the length of the line! Hope you do, too.
Until next time!
__________________________________________________ __________________________________________________ __________________________________________________ ______________________________________
I really enjoy most of this Blog, though there are parts that still sound a little snarky, but there are a lot of great little tid bits, like know who the Fight Foe Men are, writing 200 bios!, and I have to wonder if they have found a spot for those little MOTU figures!
Last edited by fireball13z; February 29, 2012 at 02:31pm. Reason: Automerged Doublepost
the ignore list is my new best friend
Thanks for posting this!
I left my wallet in El Segundo...
I totally forgot Faker was a NYCC figure
Good read overall though
Owner Fantastic Plastic Toys. Authorized Integrity Toys Dealer. We ship international. We carry Monster High, Realm of the Underworld, Funko, NECA, Japanese Imports & much more! Creator of Mystical Warriors of the Ring, a 2" Animal Wrestling Minifigure line, with toys now made in China! Check us out!
Trusted .Org member/mod See My Feedback
Last edited by fireball13z; February 29, 2012 at 02:40pm. Reason: Automerged Doublepost
the ignore list is my new best friend
Just Kidding!
I really enjoyed reading this. Despite various complaints I have seen about the bios (and even complaints I have had) I have really liked them so far. I think that if I were in the same spot at Scott, I would have approached the bios/ line with the same philosophy: Work every character/ concept into the mythology. I see the working in of characters like Demo-Man and Vikor as being in the same kind of cool, creative tradition as Larry Hama working the original 12 inch G.I. Joe into the storyline as Joe Colton and Crisis on Infinite Earths bringing together the various versions of DC Characters from different ages.
In a world that is so shrouded in myth and mystery like MOTU, these types of thinks really work for me. I think they really add to the mythos as a whole.
Last edited by Barbecue17; February 29, 2012 at 02:45pm. Reason: Automerged Doublepost
I serve up lots of hot, fresh action figure reviews on Action Figure Barbecue!
"We have a Ram-Man"
the ignore list is my new best friend
So the line is greenlit until at least 2016. Good to know.
More fun insights, thanks for sharing. But...
1) I'd like to see the "correct" order for the bios to see if they make more sense when read that way.
2) I wouldn't give Demo-Man so much credit for selling well. In my observation, many people who normally wouldn't buy a "concept" figure or buy more than one normal monthly figure bought multiples of him for one reason...THE ALCALA SKELETOR HEAD.
"I reject your Prince Adam and replace him with the original barbarian from the jungle."
Fan of the more Savage side of MOTU? Join the discussion at https://www.facebook.com/groups/savagemasters/
Check out my Custom Action Figure Art at www.InsidiousCustoms.blogspot.com
Follow me on Facebook at facebook.com/InsidiousCustoms
Buy Custom Figures at my Insidious Etsy Store.
Even if sales are down this summer when the subs go up I still expect us to get to at least 2014 which would give us a min of another 24-32 figures.
Owner Fantastic Plastic Toys. Authorized Integrity Toys Dealer. We ship international. We carry Monster High, Realm of the Underworld, Funko, NECA, Japanese Imports & much more! Creator of Mystical Warriors of the Ring, a 2" Animal Wrestling Minifigure line, with toys now made in China! Check us out!
Trusted .Org member/mod See My Feedback
This blog is a distraction to make us forget about all the bad things happening!
Hmm, so it's just a coincidence that TG has bad grammar.Many fans and customers over the years have pointed out that the bios read a bit "childish" or have run-on sentences. To say this was intentional is an understatement! All of the bios were written deliberately to be in the style of the 1987 licensor kit bios. Since these often represented the only published definitive origin for many characters, we wanted to use the wording from the kits word-for-word whenever possible. If a licensor kit bio did not exist, we tried to write one in the style of the kits.
Good read again, but it's ridiculous that he constatly repeats "hardcore fans" hate the change No they don't hate the change, they hate BAD changes! There's a difference.
MOTUC needs:Tung Lashor, Rio-Blast and rest of the Hordes!
WANTED: Minicomics !!! Swords NEEDED !!! MY FEEDBACK
this is a funny statement.
It is funny, but 99.9% of the time I personally had nothing to do with almost any delay
Orko didn't need to be turned into a super spy to make him an important or valuable character. It's been said on the RGD, and on this particular point I agree with them, I don't think you really understood the character.We also had challenges with characters like Orko. He was originally created for Filmation as a source of comedic relief. Now that he didnt need this role, we really wanted to bump up his importance. Obviously we were not birds with our heads in the sand. Of course we knew this would be controversial to older fans.
That's just my opinion though.
Good read, and looking forward to the next one.
Also "older fans"? Don't "older fans" make up like 95% of the fan base?
Back to the blogs, though, I have to agree with what has been mentioned here: TG's snarkiness is finding it's way into these blogs more and more, making them less enjoyable. He really needs to hire a ghost writer. There's several unnecessary jabs here at fans who didn't like what he was doing or how he was doing it, and it left a bad taste in my mouth previous blogs didn't. And some of the folks being blunt don't hide behind screen names, in case he hadn't noticed.
As far as the bios go, they lost me with Squidish Rex and Hector (sorry, the latter brings to mind the scene in "Monsters vs. Aliens," when they ask Ginormica what people scream in terror when she approaches, and she says, "Susan."). I ignore them completely, but that didn't stop me from getting King Grayskull, or later figures like Vikor or Demo Man (whom I would have gotten even without the sub). And bring on the Fighting Foe Men, by all means. I understand the purpose of the bios as something to fill the gap left by no other media, and now I see they were intended to give the line the widest possible selection of characters. I had voiced concerns in the past from some comments (like Illumina not fitting into the storyline) that the bios might actually be limiting the characters we could see; it's actually a bit of a relief to know that the main intent of the bios was to do exactly the opposite.
I'm one who is as interested in the history of action figures as I am in the figures themselves, so hearing first hand accounts is something I relish. I just hope the subtle shots at fans and the self aggrandizement I'm seeing creeping into these blogs can be kept to a minimum, because they are starting to detract from what are otherwise very enjoyable peeks behind the curtain.
"I will use this power for all the good that can be done, to work for peace, to encourage virtue, and above all, to preserve life in all its forms..." Superman
But even as a known apologist I do not like some of his "snarky" comments, and I think the worst part is, he is not really trying to be an *******, it just comes out that way. And really a lot of his "snarky" comments are true, but that doesnt mean he should say them lol
Its like if your GF/Wife asks if that dress makes her look fat, your answer should always be no lol, even if it does (and not meaning directly at your gf/wife scott)
the ignore list is my new best friend
The Official 200X Sorceress vs 200X Evil-Lyn 2 Pack Support Thread
The Blonde Teela Thread
Sagitar (Jetlag) Azdar Belzar Chazdar 200X Evil-Lyn 200X Teenage Prince Adam 200X Teenage Teela 200X Sorceress General Rattlor (MYP) 200X King Randor and Queen Marlena 200X Battle Armor King Randor and Battle Armor Queen Marlena Ice Armor He-Man WMD Roboto
Interesting read except for this part below:
Also, we know it is a tiny line. Stop pointing it out and maybe one day it won't be.
Jeremy Soronen
My Collection
I can see why TG tried to get rid of Orko's "Jar-Jar Binks-like" persona. I do think the super spy was a bit much though. Just make him a weak mage compared to the likes of Skeletor, Evil-Lyn, Hsss and Marzo, but does clever things with low level spells. MYP really handled the character well in that regard. It's like Willow's disappearing pig trick compared with Bavmorda's magic.
The Official 200X Sorceress vs 200X Evil-Lyn 2 Pack Support Thread
The Blonde Teela Thread
Sagitar (Jetlag) Azdar Belzar Chazdar 200X Evil-Lyn 200X Teenage Prince Adam 200X Teenage Teela 200X Sorceress General Rattlor (MYP) 200X King Randor and Queen Marlena 200X Battle Armor King Randor and Battle Armor Queen Marlena Ice Armor He-Man WMD Roboto
I usually really like these blogs, and I do like the bios, actually, but if the comics were written just to sell toys, this particular blog entry seemed like it was written just to defend choices, to a degree unlike the prior blogs.
Another great blog Scott! I personally enjoy the bios and think it's great to have a cohesive story bringing all the different elements together. It's fun to hear how they were written, you must have felt like a crazy archiologist sorting though all the different material and trying make it all fit in place!
Thanks for all the great work and keep it up, it is definetly appreciated by me and many others I'm sure.
Long live MOTUC, the greatest toyline of all!


text:
Fiori Bracelet I
Color: please select a color
Size: please select a size
Style # JPACK30064
Need Assistance? Contact Us Now
Twinkling crystals and imitation pearls detail a unique Jenny Packham bracelet. Silk backing. Adjustable length and lobster-claw clasp.
Imported, India.
Length: 6-7in / 15-18cm
Imported, India.
Length: 6-7in / 15-18cm
Designer Jenny Packham's sumptuous creations have the rare ability to infuse everyday looks with elegance and gild special-occasion ensembles with romantic glamour. The U.K. native is globally known and loved for her exquisite, feminine aesthetic, which has garnered a following among women with a discerning eye for fashion, including Dita Von Teese, Diane Kruger, and Jennifer Aniston. With dainty designs and a luxe range of materials, Jenny Packham lingerie and accessories belong in every woman's arsenal.
Shipping & Returns
Free Shipping Worldwide: No matter where you are sending your order, we offer free express shipping across the globe. Shipping Details
Easy Returns: Because we understand that not every purchase is exactly right, we've made returns easy. With the return form and return shipping label included with every order, customer service calls aren't necessary. And if you're in the USA, returns are free. Return Details
Shipping Available: Shipping Within USA Only: For Amazon Prime members, free two-day shipping is available for all Shopbop & East Dane products.


text:
Prosecutors said Monday they will amend the criminal complaint against a Donora man to charge him with attempted homicide in connection with a stabbing last month at his residence.
Assistant Washington County District Attorney Chad Schneider said a felony aggravated assault charge also will be added to the complaint against James R. Tyree Sr., 61, who is in custody on accusations he stabbed Lamont Dixon of Donora in the heart Sept. 8.
Dixon suffered critical injuries and remained last week in a Pittsburgh hospital with complications from having undergone open-heart surgery after being stabbed at 938 McKean Ave., said his wife, Natasha.
The stabbing took place during an argument that broke out after the Dixons complained about Tyree not wearing clothes in the presence of their child. Dixon was stabbed with an unknown type of sharp object about 7:40 p.m. as he was walking down a flight of stairs, police stated in the affidavit.
Tyree remains in the Washington County jail on charges of aggravated assault, simple assault and reckless endangerment filed by Donora police. He is jailed on $25,000 bond set Sept. 20 by District Judge Mark Wilson.
The criminal complaint against Tyree will be amended to reflect the new charges when he appears Thursday for his preliminary hearing before Wilson.
Schneider said the prosecution will need to subpeona Dixon�s medical records if he is still hospitalized that day.
Join the conversation
To comment and read comments on the article, please log in as a subscriber
Already a print subscriber? Your current O-R print subscription includes digital access. Fill out the "I am a subscriber" registration form to activate your digital access


text:
Maxwell House Decaffeinated Special Delivery Coffee Filter Packs - 1.3 oz. - 42 ct.
- $ 33 98 33.98
- Shipping
- Enter ZIP Code for shipping options
- Estimated arrival
About this itemMaxwell House Decaf pre-measured ground coffee
Maxwell House Special Delivery Coffee is a true American classic. Each filter pack contains a special blend of naturally decaffeinated coffee beans roasted to deliver smooth coffee for breakfast, dessert, and evening coffee. Each case of Maxwell House Special Delivery Decaf Coffee has 6 bags and each bag contains 7 filter packs for a total of 42 pots of coffee in each case. Every filter has 1.3 oz. of coffee. Folgers Special Roast Filter Pack is pre-measured ground coffee, sealed in a filter bag before being sealed in an individually-wrapped bag. Since the coffee is actually sealed within a filter, it does not require a separate filter for brewing. This allows you to simply place the filter pack into the brew basket and move on. This is the ideal solution for a fast-paced environment. No mess means easy clean up.
- 42 Filter packs per case
- Balanced, smooth coffee taste
- Each filter pack has 1.3 oz. of coffee
- Each filter pack makes 10-12 cups of coffee
- No filter required
- No mess, easy cleanup with no loose grounds
- Great for Bunn, Grindmaster, Mr. Coffee and most drip coffee machines
Assembled Country
Component Country


text:
Lawn Ornaments
Refine ResultsClear All
Price Range
Showing 1-2 of 2
About Lawn Ornaments
Beyond the size of your yard or the landscaping efforts you put into it, lawn decorations can give your lawn some personality. Lawn ornaments, including statues, add another layer of dimension to your yard. Positioning a statue as a focal point in your yard or next to a garden pond is a way to apply your signature to your outdoor space.
From pink flamingos to elegant cranes, Ace has many lawn statues to help you establish a whimsical, artistic or even humorous feel. You'll also find a variety of garden statues and inflatables to deter birds and animals from your outdoor seating area or garden.
Lawn ornaments can be both decorative and functional. They can add depth to your landscape and complete the overall vision for your outdoor space.
Contact: Have questions or comments? Send us an email or call 1.866.290.5334
© 2017 Ace Hardware Corporation. Ace Hardware and the Ace Hardware logo are registered trademarks of Ace Hardware Corporation.
All rights reserved. Privacy Policy Interest-Based Advertising Terms and Conditions


text:
My 3-year-old attends Community Action Southwest's Head Start program. Since he started in August, I have seen a huge change in his behavior and his social and learning skills.
When he started in August, he hardly knew the alphabet, could only count to 10, was not potty-trained, had severe separation anxiety and few social skills.
Since being in the program, his cognitive skills have skyrocketed and he is above average in his class, completely potty-trained, has no separation anxiety and excellent social skills.
My 5-year-old did not have the opportunity to attend Head Start, and he is now in kindergarten. He is behind in both his cognitive and social skills. I believe if he would have had the benefit of Head Start, he would be where he is supposed to be in his classes and wouldn't need as much help from both myself and his teachers.
Head Start has helped me connect with other parents in the area and work toward a common goal for our children. As the secretary of policy council and the secretary of the parent committee, I am very involved in what goes on with our children in and out of the classroom. I am not sure what I would do if I did not have the Head Start program available.
I am not sure if people realize how much the proposed 8.2 percent cuts would affect Pennsylvania. In Pennsylvania, the amount of cuts in Head Start alone is 2,160 slots. For Early Head Start, the numbers of children being cut are 360. This is nine kids out of every 100!
Yes, the deficit and the fiscal cliff should be addressed, but I don't agree that our children's education and future should be put on hold and affected because of the economic hardship we are all in.
Amanda Rodkey
Don't cut Head Start


text:
South Fayette sets millage rate, promotes two police officers
Commissioners in South Fayette unanimously voted at the March 27 meeting to set the township's millage rate for this year at 3.48 mills. The rate equates to a taxpayer with a home valued at $100,000 paying $348 in township taxes this year. This year's rate is a decrease from last year's millage rate of 3.84 and was lowered to adjust for county reassessments.
Township Solicitor Jonathan Kamin said the 3.84 number is "projected to be a revenue neutral number." He added, "It is a decrease from our existing millage – a significant one at that." However, due to reassessments, the new rate will still generate relatively the same amount of revenue.
Police Department Promotions
Jeff Sgro and John Leninger were both promoted to police sergeant at the March 27 meeting. Commissioner Joe Horowitz, who serves as the board's public safety liaison, made the motion to promote Leninger and Sgro and the motion passed unanimously. The new sergeants were then sworn in by Louis Volle, South Fayette Township police chief.
Township Manager Ryan Eggleston stated that the promotions fill a vacancy at the department and a vacancy that will occur after Sergeant Glen Davis, who has entered the deferred employee retirement program, leaves in a couple years.
New Development
Also at the March 27 meeting, the board unanimously approved preliminary and conditional use plans for a new shopping center to be located at the former Ionics property off of Washington Pike.
The proposed three-building shopping center called The Crossings of South Fayette would include an Aldi grocery store, as well as a bank and/or restaurant and a third building with multiple tenants.
Developer Dale Greco of Bridgeville Realty Partners, LLC said at the board's March 13 meeting that construction on the Crossings of South Fayette is contingent on approvals from the township and PennDOT. He said under the "best case scenario" construction could begin as early as this November, or it could be next spring before construction begins.
The board also approved final plans for the first phase of Walnut Ridge, a residential development. The first phase will include 33 of the nearly 90 lots. Walnut Ridge will be a 110-acre development set to be located off of Battle Ridge Road, with homes ranging in price from $400,000 to $450,000.
In other business:
• The board authorized Eggleston to extend a conditional offer of employment to the finalist selected for the open parks and recreation director position in the township. On March 28, the township hired Miles "Butch" Truitt of Oil City to be the new parks and recreation director. Truitt is currently the parks and recreation and public works director for Oil City. Eggleston, the former manager of Oil City, said Truitt would begin work in South Fayette on April 22. "He will be a great fit," Eggleston said, adding that the township is "really excited" to have Truitt come on board. Truitt was part of about 60 applicants from across the country who applied for the job vacated last year when Jerry Males resigned.
• The board voted to table adoption of the township's comprehensive plan to the April 17 voting meeting. Kamin said that based on feedback from residents regarding the comprehensive plan, the township is considering amending the future land use map. Kamin added that any discussion on the comprehensive plan will be postponed to the April meeting. Residents will be able to comment on the comprehensive plan during a public hearing scheduled for 7:30 p.m. April 17.
• During the public comment portion of the meeting, resident Dan Bernardi told commissioners about a growing deer problem in his neighborhood. He said the deer are eating his shrubs, which he uses as a living fence around his property.
"Something has to be done," Bernardi said, adding that some of the deer are very skinny and "basically starving." He requested that some effort be made to try to control the deer population. "I shouldn't have to pay for it," he said.
Commissioner Tom Sray said that a similar problem with deer was had in the Fairview section of the township a while back and that the township brought in a group to cull the deer. Sray said the group, called Whitetail Management uses bows and arrows to kill the deer and then donates the meat to local food banks. Sray suggested that the board invite Wildlife Conservation Officer Gary Fujak to the board's April meeting to discuss options for controlling the deer in the township.


text:
MONONGAHELA – Jason Stay lives for these wrestling tournaments.
That's because the midweek dual meets are not much fun or competitive with only nine wrestlers on the roster. That leads to a lot of forfeits and little mat time.
Stay, a 145-pound sophomore from Beth-Center, had one of the few upsets in the first two rounds of the Tri-CADA Wrestling Tournament at Ringgold High School Friday night.
Stay edged Washington's George Rogers, the No. 2 seed in the weight class, 6-5, in the quarterfinals and moves into today's semifinals, which begin at 10:30 a.m. Finals are at 2:30 p.m.
Peters Township holds the team lead after the first day with 78.5 points. Chartiers-Houston is second with 72, followed by Waynesburg at 68. McGuffey and Trinity are tied for fourth with 63 points.
Stay entered the tournament unseeded but began the tournament with an 11-0 major decision over John Dennis of Albert Gallatin. Rogers opened with a 17-1 technical fall over Ethan Tush of Bentworth.
"I wrestled (Rogers) before a couple years back in the Area IV tournament and beat him in the finals," said Stay. "I had a feeling we would both win our first match. We just wrestled Wash High Wednesday, but they bumped him up a weight."
Stay took a 2-0 lead after one period with a late takedown. The second period was wild with Rogers taking a 3-2 lead on an escape and reversal before Stay got it back on another reversal. The period ended with the match tied, 5-5. Rogers let Stay go in the third and couldn't get the winning takedown.
"Getting the first takedown was big," said Stay. "I knew I would have a good chance to win the match if I got the first takedown."
Tanner Sutton of Chartiers-Houston is hoping to become the tournament's first four-time champion if he can survive two more bouts at 145 pounds. Sutton had two pins that took a combined 6:01.
Burgettstown's Austin McDermitt was surprised when he was seeded third at 106 pounds, especially since he defeated the top seed, Brendan Howard of Jefferson-Morgan, 8-0, in the semifinals of the Southmoreland Tournament.
McDermitt had two pins in this tournament's first day to move into the semifinals against No. 2 seed Brendan Price of Canon-McMillan. Howard decisioned Gage Nicolella of McGuffey, 10-3, to reach the semifinals.
"I was a little confused when I saw the bracket," said McDermitt, who is 13-1. "I have a tough match in the semifinals instead of the finals. It's not a bad weight class. I felt I could get to the finals, top three or four for sure."
Avella's Jake Temple was eager for a match against Canon-McMillan's Alex Campbell in the 220-pound weight class, but Campbell was one of six Big Macs to scratch because of injuries, flu or both.
Campbell originally was the top seed and Temple the second. When Campbell pulled out, Temple moved to No. 1 and Rich Heinzelman of Ringgold settled into the No. 2 seed in the redrawn weight class.
Temple got the finals with a pin in seven seconds against Will Van Norman of West Greene. It was the quickest pin of his varsity career. His fastest career pin came in five seconds in the youth program at Avella.
"I was looking forward to wrestling Campbell," said Temple, a defending champion with a 13-1 record. "You always want to wrestle kids who are good. That's what gets you better."
Temple takes on Christian Phelps of Peters Township, a 7-4 winner over McGuffey's Ryan Steinstraw, in the semifinals. Third-seeded Josh Kraushaar of Chartiers-Houston takes on Ryan Pendeville of Burgettstown in the other semifinal match.
"I didn't scout him," said Temple. "I don't really watch too many other wrestlers."
Other Canon-McMillan wrestlers not competing were defending state champion Cody Wiercioch, who injured his thumb in Wednesday's dual meet against Fort Lebeouf; Connor Schram, who is was nursing a sore shoulder; heavyweight Anthony Broglia, who was banged up from the Fort Lebeouf match; and William Pihiou, who was suffering with the flu and nursing injuries. Campbell was one of three 220-pounders who were scratched.
Another notable absence was John Demakse of Jefferson-Morgan, who was injured.
Join the conversation
To comment and read comments on the article, please log in as a subscriber
Already a print subscriber? Your current O-R print subscription includes digital access. Fill out the "I am a subscriber" registration form to activate your digital access


text:
When you purchase a digital subscription to Cake Central Magazine, you will get an instant and automatic download of the most recent issue.
Made this cake as a thank you to the staff at my daughter's school at the end of the year. I had been wanting to make a Dr. Seuss cake for a long time - so I took this opportunity. All buttercream with chocolate transfer characters.
Chocolate Transfer
Cake With Chocolate Transfer
Cake Balls With Chocolate Transfer Sheet
(if this is a private computer)
Yes please, register now!


text:
Vacuum Ovens 220°C General Purpose 260°C Lindberg/Blue M 280°C High Temp
Convection Ovens Gravity Mechanical With Ramp/Dwell Adjustable Fan Speed Stainless Steel Help Me Choose!
Precision Ovens High Performance Compact
Delivery Methods for Large Equipment
Tailgate Delivery The freight company will bring the item to the back of the truck, but you will need to unload it. The product will be packaged and strapped to a pallet. A fork lift is recommended.
Inside Delivery You will be called to schedule an appointment. The delivery crew will unpack the product and carefully place it in your desired location inside your building. All packaging and debris will be removed.
Just a Lift Gate If you do not want an inside delivery but do not have the ability to unload the product from the truck, this delivery method will at least get it to the ground for you. The driver will lower it to the curb. The product will still be packaged and strapped to a pallet.


text:
SF discusses Star City property
After a discussion Aug. 14 regarding what to do with proceeds from the sale of a portion of the Star City property to Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, South Fayette commissioners agreed to have a public meeting to discuss the future of the former theater building.
Although no date was set for the meeting, a decision regarding what to do with the building was brought up by township manager Ryan Eggleston as an item to be discussed as part of the township's strategic plan.
In February 2009, the South Fayette Board of Commissioners voted to purchase the former Star City theater property for $5 million. The building encompasses 85,000 square feet and sits on about 15 acres along Route 50 and Hickory Grade Road. The property was later divided into several parcels of which one was recently sold to UPMC for $1.65 million. Back in 2009, the appraised value for the property was about $10 million.
Commissioner Joe Horowitz said at the meeting that there are several options for the site, such as remediation and the possibility of selling it.
"We have no real knowledge of what the property could be sold for," he said. He added, "I know we don't have the money to build the civic center that was envisioned by the previous board." He said more information is needed on the item.
"I'm assuming people don't want their taxes raised to build a civic center," Horowitz said. "We're not sure how people are feeling one way or another," on the matter, he added.
Prior to the regular workshop meeting, a public hearing was held regarding the township's 2009 bond and the sale of the portion of property to UPMC.
Wayne Gerhold, the township's bond council, said a portion of the 2009 bond was used to purchase the Star City property. He said the township still has about $7.2 million of the 2009 bond outstanding and those bonds have a call date of June 2014.
UPMC purchased 2.6 acres of that property for $1.65 million to build a children's medical facility. Gerhold said of that amount, $647,539 is attributed to the 2009 bond.
Gerhold said the township has several options as to what to do with the proceeds from the sale. He said the funds could be put into the township's general fund, or put into a sinking fund that could be used to pay the debt service on the bond. Gerhold said the township currently pays about $550,000 a year on debt service. In addition, Gerhold said the township could also use the proceeds for capital projects, but the $647,539 would have to be spent within one year.
Resident John Alan Kosky said during the public hearing, "I'm just curious on how the board is planning on spending that money." He said he would like the public to have an opportunity to comment after they know how the board plans on spending the funds.
Stacy Kosky added that she thought "The best accounting principal is to leave the money in the account," and use it to pay debt service on the bond. She added that by the end of the year the township will have already paid $1.5 million into the bonds.
"Any profit we made, we already paid in interest," Stacy Kosky said, adding that putting the money into a sinking fund is the best idea.