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A YOUNG father has been sentenced to 40 months in jail after police discovered he was growing a mobile cannabis farm from his camper van.
Police found the drug growing in the back of the van belonging to Robert Migel-Lopez on March 5 this year.
The van also contained packages of NRG2, a Class B drug, with a street value of more than £84,000, Gloucester Crown Court heard.
Migel-Lopez, 36, of Chipping Street, tetbury admitted two charges of possession of NRG2, a Class B drug, with intent to supply and a charge of producing cannabis.
He had first come to the attention of the police when a Highways Agency patrol came found the defendant sitting in his Ford Focus car on the hard shoulder of the M56 motorway in Cheshire on March 10, 2011.
Police later found a carrier bag in the car containing a kilogram of Class B drug NRG2 with a street value of £20,040. Migel-Lopez told officers he was a courier taking Ôlegal highsÕ from Bolton to Gloucester.
On March 5 this year, police went to the car park at the George Inn in Cambridge near Dursley where they found a camper van and a Vauxhall combo van with Migel-Lopez and his ex-girlfriend Suzanne Seer, aged 21, of Tilsdown Close, Dursley in the front.
As they approached the officers watched as the defendant tried to dispose of a substance, that was later confirmed as NRG2. He was arrested and a subsequent search of the van uncovered an estimated £84,259 of the substance.
They also discovered that the rear of the camper van was being used to grow 20 cannabis plants which would have yielded drugs to the value of £1,760. There were also lights, a ventilation system and scales.
Evidence of being involved in supplying the drugs was discovered on Seer's phone who pleaded guilty to being concerned in the sale of cannabis and NRG2 Claire Malvern-White, for Migel-Lopez, said he had been a courier for a company that sold legal highs on the internet. The drugs found in his possession were left over from that. He admitted small scale supply on a social basis to people known to him, she added.
Jason Coulter, representing Seer, said she was of previous good character who, to some extent, had been led astray by her co-defendant.
Migel-Lopez was sentenced to 24 months in prison for the first NRG2 charge, 60 months for the second and 48 months for the cannabis production charge, all to run concurrently. The total to be served was reduced to 40months in recognition of his early plea and because he has already spent 106 days in custody.
Seer was sentenced to eight months in prison, suspended for two years, and ordered to carry out 200 hours of unpaid work.


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This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/).
Melanoma of the hand represents a complicated clinical entity. Anatomic features of the hand create challenges in successful management of melanoma not encountered elsewhere in the body. The objectives of this article are to outline current standards for managing melanoma of the hand including diagnosis, surgical, and chemotherapeutic management. Particular emphasis will be placed on currently debated topics of the role of sentinel lymph node biopsy, the role of Mohs micrographic surgery, tissue sparing management of subungual melanoma, and the consideration of melanoma of the hand as a distinct entity based on clinical and molecular studies.
Melanoma is a substantial public health problem in many countries and a devastating diagnosis for patients to receive. Melanoma is a melanocyte-derived malignancy that accounts for only 4% of cutaneous malignancy but 80% of skin cancer related deaths. According to the American Cancer Society for the year 2013 there will be an estimated 76,690 new cases resulting in 9480 deaths in the Unites States alone [
A diagnosis of melanoma of the hand presents several unique challenges to the healthcare team involved in management of these patients. The primary care physician or dermatologist is often the first to encounter a concerning lesion. The decision regarding the role and type of biopsy are often discussed with the patient. After diagnosis is made, referral to an appropriate surgeon, depending on lesion size, depth, and concern for long-term function of the hand is the appropriate next step in management.
There are a variety of specialists well equipped to manage melanoma of the hand, all with varying attributes. Plastic Surgeons, Hand Surgeons and Dermatologists may be comfortable performing both local excision and amputation, along with a functional reconstruction if indicated. In many centers, however a Surgical Oncologist or General Surgeon will prefer to perform the excision as they are in general more facile with current techniques and concepts of sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLN) and nodal dissections when they are indicated. There are many cases where both groups will be needed to offer the best care to the patient from both an ablative and restorative standpoint. A general knowledge of local referral patterns and preferences of consultants will aid in expedient management of this patient population.
The purpose of this article is to provide a concise review of the recent literature from which all healthcare practitioners can gain insight into the current diagnostic and therapeutic management related to melanoma of the hand. We will highlight significant differences in melanoma of the hand relative to cutaneous melanoma in the rest of the body and underscore the need for further study given the limited evidence in the extant literature.
The cutaneous components of the hand represents only 1%–2% of the total body surface area yet harbors 10%–15% of all cutaneous malignancies [
The incidence of cutaneous melanoma is highest in Caucasian populations. However regarding melanoma of the hand, including subungual melanoma, non-white populations are as frequently if not more often affected. Acral lentiginous melanoma is the most common type found in darkly pigmented patients [
There is a limited subcutaneous layer in the hand with underlying functional structures
Until recently there has been a paucity of data looking specifically at skin cancer of the hand. Maciburko
In a systematic review of hand and foot melanoma (HFM) Durbec
For lesions not involving the fingernail complex, the ABCDE system of describing cutaneous melanoma has applicability in the hand. Asymmetry of the lesion, irregular Borders, Color variation within the lesion, Diameter >6 mm, and Evolution over time are all concerning features in pigmented lesions. Once a concerning lesion is identified the only way to rule out malignancy is with a tissue diagnosis.
In an effort to minimize the number of unnecessary biopsies of suspicious lesions adjunct diagnostic methods have been studied. Epiluminescence microscopy or dermoscopy is a method of evaluating a lesion
Breslow depth of melanoma (from the granular layer of the epidermis to the deepest atypical melanocyte) is the most cited measurement and foundation upon which all treatment plans are made [
The current standard techniques for histologic evaluation are Hematoxylin and Eosin stains with additional stains of MART-1/Melan-A, S-100 and HMB-45, as needed. There are many architectural features shared between early melanoma and other benign pigmented lesions, are documented in the pathology literature. The current recommendation is to seek the opinion of a second certified pathologist for any questionable lesions [
If deeper invasion of the tumor is concerning on clinical exam, magnetic resonance imaging should be considered. While no clinical guidelines exist due to the innumerable variables involved, the ability of MRI to delineate invasion and proximity to underlying bone, tendon, nerve, or vessels may aid in preoperative planning with regard to ablative planning and reconstructive options. Imaging may alert the specialist if an amputation may be more functional than a prolonged reconstructive effort [
Given the absence of data regarding the specific staging of melanoma of the hand staging should be performed in concordance with the most recent institutional guidelines. The lesion should be assessed for greatest Breslow thickness, Clark level, mitotic index, presence of lymphocytes, microsatellites, and ulceration. Regional nodes should be evaluated by physical examination and clinically concerning nodal basins should be sampled with a surgical procedure [
Surgical margins for the safest excision of melanoma have come under scrutiny in recent decades. From the time of Handley in the 1900's up until the 1970's recommended margins of resections were 5 cm based on necropsy specimens and early reports of "field changes" of resulting atypia of melanocytes up to 5 cm from a lesion [
Recommended excision margin.
|Depth of Lesion
|World Health Organization Trial [
|Australian Trial [
|Dutch Trial [
|United Kingdom Trial [
|5 mm
|5 mm
|5 mm
|5 mm
|<1 mm lesion
|1 cm
|1 cm
|1 cm
|1 cm
|1 to 2 mm
|1–2 cm
|1 cm
|1 cm
|1–2 cm
|2.1 to 4 mm
|2 cm
|1 cm
|2 cm
|2–3 cm
|>4 mm
|2 cm
|2 cm
|2 cm
|2–3 cm
Sentinel lymph node biopsy has revolutionized the management of regional disease in many types of cancer. Current practice is to offer sentinel lymph node biopsy to patients with certain characteristics for patients with extremity melanoma. It is estimated that 20% of all patients with intermediate thickness melanoma (1.2 to 3.5 mm in the trial) will have a regional lymph node metastasis [
The likelihood of obtaining a positive sentinel lymph node biopsy increases with increasing Breslow thickness of the lesion. For lesions 1.0 mm or less, 1.01 to 2.00 mm, 2.01 to 4.00 mm and greater than 4 mm the risks are approximately 4%, 12%, 28%, and 44%, respectively [
The role of SLN biopsy in melanoma has recently been investigated with the Multicenter Selective Lymphadenectomy Trial I and II (MSLT-I and MSLT-II). The MSLT-I trial has reached completion and the MSLT-II trial is still ongoing. MSLT-I did not demonstrate an overall-survival benefit for those patients undergoing SLN biopsy followed by completion lymphadenectomy compared to those receiving delayed completion lymphadenectomy. However for those patients undergoing SLN biopsy with immediate completion lymphadenectomy there was an improvement in disease-free survival and disease specific survival at 5 years [
Current recommendations for SLN biopsy are patients without clinical evidence of nodal disease with lesions >1 mm. Consideration should be made to offering patients SLN biopsy for lesions <1 mm with atypical features such as elevated mitotic rate, ulceration, or satellitosis [
In 2012 the American Academy of Dermatology, American College of Mohs Surgery, American Society for Dermatologic Surgery and the American Society of Mohs Surgery released a consensus guideline regarding the appropriate use of Mohs surgery. At that time the only acknowledged uses were for lentigo maligna and melanoma
Recent reports of using Mohs surgery for nail unit lesions in particular are sparse. This represents a potential new application of a known entity although certainly further study is warranted. Brodland described the successful use of the technique in 2001 [
Subungual melanoma is melanoma of the nail matrix. Boyer identified it clinically as early as 1834. Subungual melanoma is thought to affect dark-skinned populations in greater proportion and occurs most commonly in the 5th to 7th decades of life [
Subungual melanoma of the left thumb. Note pigmentation of the nail fold and faint pigmentation and abnormality of the nail plate.
The most common histologic type of subungual melanoma are acral lentiginous and nodular. One study demonstrated an average Breslow scale of 3.1 mm. Characteristics of the nail bed that make histologic diagnosis challenging include a poorly delineated dermis, minimal subcutaneous fat, propensity for epidermal hyperplasia and lack of an epidermal granular layer. This has led some to abandon the Breslow classification for treatment decisions, instead considering lesions limited to the matrix itself as
When not clinically evident, imaging of lesions of the nail unit can provide valuable information regarding the type of lesion or infiltration of deeper structures and can aid in surgical planning. Ultrasound and MRI are soft tissue imaging modalities most relevant to nail complex lesions and should be considered in equivocal cases to further aid diagnostic and surgical planning [
A high index of suspicion is needed in evaluating lesions of the nail. This has led to an adaptation of the ABCDE's of cutaneous melanoma to its subungual counterpart. Age of the patient being in the 5th to 7th decade of life, Band of nail pigmentation greater than 3 mm or having irregular borders, Change in color or size, Digital characteristics such as being isolated pigmentation of the thumb rather than multi-digit discoloration, Extension to the periungual skin, and Family history make up the ABCDEF's of subungual melanoma (see
Subungual melanoma of the right thumb. Note pigmentary changes extending onto the pulp and exophytic nature of the lesion.
If a lesion is clinically concerning for hematoma or an onychomycotic infection, a period of no more than 8 weeks of observation and treatment should be undertaken. Once a concerning lesion is noted a full-thickness biopsy should be performed. This can be done in a number of ways. First, the patient should be anesthetized with a digital block. Often only a small portion of the nail plate can be removed, exposing the area to be biopsied without removing the entire nail unit. For physicians not familiar with nail bed repair techniques, a punch biopsy, with or without nail plate removal, can be performed. For physicians familiar with nail repair techniques a diamond shaped incisional biopsy or linear excision can be performed [
Until recent years the scarcity of data had led most surgeons to amputate any melanoma lesions of the nail complex. Puhaindran and colleagues evaluated their results for management of malignant tumor of the thumb. They utilized the Musculoskeletal Tumor Society Score (MTSS), which examines the emotional, functional, and pain aspects of tumor management. They found that patients undergoing interphalangeal joint amputation faired equally as well as those undergoing thumb-sparing surgeries. Amputation is a well-tolerated procedure if length can be preserved (see
After interphalangeal joint level amputation (patient from
In 2003 Moehrle and colleagues described their outcomes with "functional" surgery for subungual melanoma. It consisted of local excision of the lesion with partial resection of the distal phalanx and reconstruction with full thickness skin graft. With 31 patients in each group they found no differences in survival or recurrence free survival [
Yun and colleagues recently described their experience with 27 hand melanomas over an 18-year period. Their population was slightly younger, and most lesions were localized to the digits having no dorsal hand lesions in the series. Seventeen of the 27 lesions were T1 lesions or less. Amputation was the most commonly performed procedure, 13 of 27 cases, but as their experience grew they employed less aggressive resections. Ultimately, only 1 of the 27 cases resulted in a recurrence/metastatis. The authors surmise that the anatomy of the fingertip, with its multilayered complex and absence of conduits such as hair follicles, contributed to the paucity of advanced disease. Whether this is a selection bias given the number of low-grade lesions or whether their theory is correct will require further investigation [
The limitations of these studies are apparent. Many are retrospective and small cohorts so care should be taken in applying their interpretation into clinical practice. Patients should be counseled thoroughly before embarking on any conservative melanoma resections.
Prognosis is generally thought to be poor. Nguyen
The hand is an extension of the human brain, without it the civilization we know today would be precluded from existence. The hand is unique in many ways. There are 5 digits each with relatively different functions. The thumb is given greatest value, when absent the hand is considered to have lost 40% of its inherent function. The remaining digits including index and long fingers are primarily used for fine motor tasks, with great mobility and minute manipulation. The ring and small finger are in a location that is mechanically advantageous and are designed to perform tasks requiring composite grip and strength.
The volar and dorsal sides of the hand are also unique. Differences in this soft tissue envelope, which is our primary concern after ablation of melanoma, are readily apparent and convey functional disparities between the sides. The volar side, which is the working surface of the hand, requires tough, adaptable, and highly sensate skin. Dorsally, the skin is mobile, elastic and expandable allowing full range of motion over the convex surface.
The goals of soft tissue reconstruction in the hand should be to replace what has been removed with tissue that is as identical as possible. One can easily infer that the hand is an area of the body with a relative paucity of skin. A lesion of 6 mm diameter and Breslow thickness of 1 mm requires a minimum of 2.6 mm diameter skin excision. On the dorsum of the finger this encompasses a large portion of the circumference and can be function limiting if not appropriately reconstructed. There are instances where the recommended margin may not be able to be performed. It is thus prudent to spend time counseling the patient beforehand.
Replacing "like with like" is a mantra in field of Reconstructive Surgery. Goals of reconstructing soft tissue of the hand include providing durable, sensate, aesthetically sound tissue with consideration of donor site morbidity, patient demands and comorbidities. Additional goals of preserving bony length, maintaining joint function and minimizing the number of reconstructive stages are also considered.
Primary closure, re-approximation of wound edges with suture, is the most desirable form of reconstruction. This is often possible on the trunk or proximal extremities but not feasible in the hand or fingers. If a wound is unable to be closed then the surgeon can consider healing by secondary intent. This is often employed in the fingertip where moist dressing changes will allow contraction of the wound periphery bringing in sensate, glabrous skin for potentially stable reconstruction. This method requires a viable wound bed without bone or tendon exposure in order to be a viable option. The disadvantage is that the wounds can take weeks to heal and may be uncomfortable in the interim.
A skin graft is can be utilized in reconstructing defects that cannot be closed with either of the prior methods. There are 2 broad categories of skin graft. Full thickness skin grafts are generally an ellipse of skin removed from the donor site, which can be closed primarily leaving a linear scar. The graft has the entire thickness of dermis, which resists contraction of the graft, and recipient wound bed. Full thickness grafts are utilized throughout both the volar and dorsal surfaces of the hand due to this property. Common donor sites include the hypothenar eminence, volar wrist crease, groin, and medial arm. Each has various size and limitations with regard to color match at the recipient site. A split thickness skin graft can be utilized in the hand though generally reserved for very large surface areas for which a full thickness graft of appropriate size would not be possible. Split thickness skin grafts are taken from the donor site with a dermatome, which ultimately must heal by secondary intent from the dermal appendages and wound edges. The grafts are then secured to the recipient site in a number of ways but are generally unmeshed in order to minimize contracture. Despite these efforts split-grafts are prone to contracture and the donor site is uncomfortable during the healing process.
When a defect on the hand has involved or exposed any of the vital structures including, bone, joint, tendon, nerves or vessels, grafting techniques are not possible. A flap is composite vascularized tissue that can be transferred into a defect bringing its own blood supply and must be considered in this situation. It does not rely on the underlying bed for healing. Flaps can be composed of many tissues including skin, fat, fascia, muscle, bone, tendon, nerve, vessels or any combination of the above. The flap is designed to deliver "like tissue" to the area. The primary disadvantage of a flap is that a deficit is created at the donor site and that morbidity should be weight against the benefit.
The litany of flaps used to resurface defects of the hand is vast and both the number and modifications to existing flaps continue to increase. There are several worth mentioning. In the fingers and thumb there are often few options for local flaps. Often skin must be mobilized on the same digit, homodigital flaps, with the best example being the Moberg flap for thumb tip reconstruction. The soft tissue of the thumb is mobilized on both radial and ulnar neurovascular bundles and advanced to the tip for small defects. When local options are not available a nearby digit may be utilized. The cross finger flap borrows either skin or the adipofascial layer of the dorsum of the hand for coverage of a neighboring digits defect (see
Cross finger flaps used for closure of traumatic defects of the index and long fingers.
Donor site of the cross finger flaps prior to application of a full thickness skin graft.
For large defects of the dorsum of the hand, flaps from the forearm remain a mainstay in management. The reverse radial forearm flap is a flap based on retrograde flow through the palmar arch allowing tissue from the forearm to be transposed to a variety of locations. The donor site can be closed primarily or with a graft. Alternate forearm based flaps include the reverse posterior interosseous artery flap which has similar indications but does not sacrifice the radial artery of the patient (see
A dissected reverse posterior interosseus artery flap for reconstruction of a dorsal hand defect with exposed tendon after infection. Not the pedicle based at the distal forearm.
A final reconstructive modality to mention is free tissue transfer. This form of reconstructive surgery requires expertise in many areas particularly that of microvascular surgery. In a free tissue transfer procedure a flap is designed about an artery and vein to a particular angiosome of tissue. It is then transferred to the recipient site where microvascular anastomosis is completed to establish blood flow to the flap. The advantage of free tissue transfer is that the surgeon can be more selective in the type of tissue transferred whether it be for the addition of bone to the flap or necessitating a more reliable and thinner flap. Common free flaps employed in reconstructing the hand include the lateral arm flap, anterolateral thigh flap, temporoparietal fascia flap with skin grafts, and many others [
The type of reconstructive procedure utilized for a tumor defect is dependent upon numerous factors. For any particular defect there will be multiple methods of reconstruction. The challenge for the reconstructive surgeon is finding what best suits the needs of the patient.
Consensus on the most clinically effective methods of managing late stage (III and IV) melanoma of the hand is not available at this time owing in large part to the relative infrequency of occurrence. Cohort studies of advanced cases of melanoma of the hand are ongoing. Currently accepted treatments include High Dose and Pegylated Inteferons for resected disease and newer medications including Ipilimumab and Vemurafenib for Stage IV and unresectable disease. Trials continue for both [
Two techniques of regional chemotherapy have been introduced which have been essentially deemed palliative. These techniques are available only at advanced centers with the capabilities and familiarity with the techniques. Hyperthermic isolated limb perfusion is a complex surgical procedure, which places the extremity on complete vascular bypass, isolated from the remainder of the body. High dose melphalan is infused and warmed to 41 °C. Complications including skin necrosis, neuropathy and compartment syndrome are frequent. Isolated limb perfusion is a less invasive technique requiring percutaneous cannulation of the artery and vein. A higher dose of chemotoxic agents are not able to be achieved nor is there a hyperthermic component due to lack of complete isolation from the systemic circulation. As would be expected, studies have demonstrated improved tolerance but less effectiveness with this technique [
As evidence suggests, melanoma of the hand is an anatomic, genetically and clinically distinct entity. Management requires cooperation from multiple medical practitioners. Future research efforts will delineate an appropriate set of guidelines for treatment of melanoma of the hand.
The authors would like to thank Michael Lynch, for his contributions.
John Brad Turner was primary author of the article including researching references, drafting the paper and submission. Brian Rinker was editor and mentor through the writing process.
The authors declare no conflict of interest.

subset: commoncrawl


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Aaron did the window washing in Shanghai, which means he is done with roadblocks. Hayden will have to perform the final two--that could be major!!!
Aaron did the window washing in Shanghai, which means he is done with roadblocks. Hayden will have to perform the final two--that could be major!!!
Looks like the new rule worked out well. Less ball-and-chain contestants. And Hayden's a bit more capable than Kendra and Adam, so I'm not too worried.
I love the new rule too and I'm pleased that it's worked out so well. I hated watching Colin and Chip automatically would take all the Roadblocks while Christie and Kim were regulated to professional cheerleaders.
If you go through a lot of hammers each month, I don't think it necessarily means you're a hard worker.
It may just mean that you have a lot to learn about proper hammer maintenance.
If there is one more roadblock related to heights, Hayden can;t do it. So I don;t think they will win the raceOriginally Posted by quangtran
Updated count:
1. Hayden (4) & Aaron (6)
Aaron: zipline, hay bales, soup, grape stomping, rock, window
Hayden: salt harvesting, bungee, race car, church
2. Kris (5) & Jon (5)
Kris: salt harvest, bungee, grape stomping, church, window
Jon: zipline, hay bales, race car, soup, rock
3. Freddy (5) & Kendra (5)
Freddy: hay bales, race car, soup, church, rock
Kendra: zipline, salt harvest, bungee, grape stomping, window
4. Adam (5) & Rebecca (4)--one less due to fast forward
Adam: zipline, hay bales, salt harvest, church, rock
Rebecca: bungee, race car, soup, window
I've said it before and I'll say it again: it was a MISTAKE to have Aaron squash grapes. If just one of the final two roadblocks involves strength OR heights, H&A are gonna have some troubles.
And I sing sometimes like my life is at stake because you're only as loud as the noises you make.
I would agree. Hayden and Aaron are potentially in a bit of trouble.
"George Oscar Bluth II, aka GOB, featured magician in the best selling videotape, "Girls With Low Self Esteem" invites you to enter his world.
-- Arrested Development, Season III
I wonder what is the penalty if one person does more than 6? & will they tell Hayden before the road block that she has to do it?
Phil: Claire likes to say "You can be part of the problem, or part of the solution." But I happen to believe you can be both. Modern Family
I'm thinking that they are updated with their RB counts at the pitstop. They don't want them doing stupid mistakes. Or, they may very well leave it up to the team and if they screw up than they're SOL.


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Legendary Photographer Annie Leibovitz Pulled Out Of Photographing Kim & Kanye's Wedding
- Vanity Fair photographer Annie Leibovitz pulled out of photographing Kim and Kanye's wedding one day before the event, I guess because she didn't want negative attention. But don't worry, they still got plenty of photos — they're them. Kanye also revealed they tweaked the colors in the pic of them kissing for FOUR DAYS before posting it on Instagram. [Daily Mail UK]
- Jude Law's 17-year-old son, Rafferty Law, is a male model who looks like an eerie time warp version of his dad. [People]
- "Duke porn star" Miriam Weeks/Belle Knox has a piece at TIME about the sky high cost of college tuition and how she's actually been priced-out from receiving need-based aid. [TIME via Cosmopolitan]
- The Situation from "Jersey Shore" got arrested in — where else? — a New Jersey tanning salon brawl. [TMZ]
- Need something to watch tonight? Here are Amy Schumer's 10 most gender-conscious sketches. [Paste Magazine]
- Azealia Banks and T.I. are having a ridiculous social media feud. [Clutch Magazine]
- Sarah Jessica Parker confirmed "there is a story" for a third "Sex & The City" movie, but it's "unclear" whether it will ever get made. [Guardian UK]
- Disorderly conduct charges against Paul Simon and Edie Brickell have been dropped by a prosecutor following an April fight in their home. [Daily Mail UK]
- 15 things to say to a dress other than "yes." [The Hairpin]
- Uh oh, bronies: Hasbro might try to claim ownership of your adult "My Little Pony" content. [The Mary Sue]
- Justin Bieber and Selena Gomez partied together at a Malibu nightclub on Monday night. Sigh. [TMZ]
Email me at [email protected] Follow me on Twitter.


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Diane Kruger Style 2011-03-30 15:40:16
Celeb Style: Diane Kruger
Diane Kruger looked stunning in head-to-toe Jason Wu while attending the Green Auction: A Bid to Save the Earth at Christie's in NYC. We are envious of her structured satin dress, nude pumps, and ivory baby calf clutch. Diane finished off her noteworthy ensemble with a loose braid, golden goddess makeup, and dark red nails. Shop now to mimic her green-carpet style.
Image Source: Getty


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Colwyn Bay 1 Guiseley 2
Guiseley held their nerve and their concentration to earn yet another victory to keep their hopes of landing the Blue Square Bet North title very much alive.
The Lions had to battle back from a first-half deficit.
In an opening period of few chances, the Welshmen took the one that counted when John McKenna netted in the 35th minute.
Andy Holdsworth had put an early free-kick over the bar and had a later effort blocked while Danny Forrest had been denied by the home keeper.
After the break it was James Walshaw who was threatening for the Lions, with skipper Simon Ainge playing a real captain's innings.
Right on the hour mark, the former Bradford City defender fired in the equaliser with a shot from just inside the area and he headed in what proved to be the winner three minutes later from a Holdsworth free-kick.
Dave Merris and substitute Chris Senior both went close as the visitors finished strongly.
Spokesman Stuart Allen said: "We were poor first half, very poor considering the standards we have set ourselves recently. But after half-time it was more or less all us."
Leaders Hyde won 3-1 at Lee Sinnott's Altrincham, who visit Nethermoor tomorrow to play a Guiseley side bang in form. The win at Colwyn Bay was a sixth straight victory for the Lions.
Allen added: "Danny Boshell had to come off in the second half and will be a doubt for the Altrincham game because there is not much recovery time."
Hyde are home to mid-table Solihull Moors tomorrow.


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BP Comment Quick Links
July 15, 2009
Prospectus Today
The Next Best Ballplayer
So, .239/.326/.375. That's not very good. It might be acceptable for a good defensive middle infielder, or perhaps a catcher. It might look good for an outfielder in 1968, when the league hit worse than that as a whole. That's the line, however, of a 24-year-old center fielder in the first half of 2009, and it represents one of the more disappointing performances of the season to date. It's also the first-half line of the player who could well be the best in baseball in the second half.
B.J. Upton, coming off of a fantastic 2008 postseason and subsequent shoulder surgery, was supposed to take a big step forward this season. The raw talent that made him the second overall pick in the 2002 draft was being leavened by experience, not all of it successful. Upton had to fail as a shortstop and as a second baseman and had to flop in his first two major league stints before he broke through in his third season. It was during that season that the Rays made the critical decision to move Upton out of the infield, where he'd been terrible his entire professional life, and into center field. With his great speed and baseball instincts, Upton took to the change. The move turned him from a mediocre player to a very good one in a season when he hit .308/.368/.508 in mostly everyday play.
In 2008, Upton made tremendous strides across the board. He improved his play in center, cut his strikeout rate, improved his walk rate, and stole twice as many bases, albeit without improving his success rate. On May 1, he was batting .294 and slugging .441 when he suffered a debilitating shoulder injury. He played through it the rest of the season, but wasn't the same hitter, batting .268 and slugging .392 the rest of the way. He hit just six homers in his final 520 plate appearances, a far cry from the power he'd shown in 2007. Even at that, his dramatic improvements in other areas showed him to be a coming star, an MVP candidate in the making.
All of those skills are still present, hidden behind that terrible line. As much as we sometimes infer that player development is a linear process, it's not. Players, even great ones, bounce around, they get unlucky, they pick up bad habits. In Upton's case, a look at his season to date shows two notable trends that have affected his performance line, elements that he is likely to correct as we head into the second half.
The first is that Upton is hitting more fly balls than ever before, and it's not close. Upton hits fly balls in 42.0 percent of his at-bats, versus a career mark below 34 percent coming into this season. Upton has lower rates of ground balls and line drives as a result of this. If you're wondering where the missing 60 points of batting average are-as Upton was expected to be a .300 hitter-that's your first culprit. Batting average is lower on fly balls than on other batted-ball types, so Upton's average on contact has dropped from last year's .360 to this year's .340. His batting average on balls in play shows that same drop, from .344 to .317.
Upton has also taken a step backwards in terms of making contact, which was his most dramatic area of improvement in '08. After pulling his K rate down from 32.5% to 25.2%, it's back up this year to 29.9%. That's the rest of the missing batting average. Upton may be striking out more as a side effect of his ever-increasing patience at the plate. He saw 3.7 pitches per plate appearance in 2006, a bit fewer than 4.1 in 2007 and 2008, and is a sliver above 4.1 in 2009. Deeper counts will up your strikeout rate, but should also result in more walks and, for good hitters, more opportunities to hit in good counts. Upton isn't seeing the benefits yet, however, because despite the deeper counts, he's not necessarily making better decisions at the plate. He's swinging at more balls out of the zone than he did last year (up 2.5%) and making less contact when he does (down 14.4%).
There's a term I probably use too much called "consolidation year." It's what happens when a player is integrating learned skills with innate tools, a process that can lead to short-term degradation in performance. Upton has shown most every skill you can ask of a baseball player at one time or another. He's hit for average and for power, and a healthy shoulder has enabled him to display a bit more of the power we've expected from him. He's drawn walks. He's stolen bases. He's shown range in the outfield, and he's displayed very strong arm. Even in a disappointing season, he's posted the best stolen-base percentage of his career, and is on pace for a career high in steals.
Whatever wildly optimistic numbers I would have hung on Upton four months ago are obviously out of reach. However, because of his age, his ongoing development, his freakish tool kit, I think he's going to be that player for the last 10 weeks of the season. Upton is going to hit .330/.400/.530, going to steal at least 20 bases at a high rate of success, going to be a plus defender in center field, going to cut his strikeout rate and hit more line drives.
There's an element of faith in these statements-after a big June made it look like he'd found himself, he started July by striking out in one of every three plate appearances while batting .175-but I look at Upton's season to date as I look at Tiger Woods' 2003-04. Woods was the best player in the world by the end of 2002, but at 27 had to rebuild his swing to become an even better player. For two years, Woods didn't win a major while changing his game, and came out on the other end as the greatest player ever. Upton hasn't had the success in baseball Woods had had in golf, but the changes to his game in '09 reflect a player trying to get better, trying to maximize his skill set. He gets there now, and will be the best player in the American League down the stretch, and then the league MVP in 2010.
(Information from Fangraphs was used extensively in this article.)
Joe Sheehan is an author of Baseball Prospectus.
26 comments have been left for this article.
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I think you could make a strong case that his brother is the next best ball player. How many 21 yr olds post a .900 OPS. Doesn't play a premium position, but the bat is there and should be real good.
Jul 15, 2009 16:32 PM
Upton has hit 16 home runs over his last 1000+ plate appearances. I know he has had some health issues, but I think it's a leap to say he's going to be a premium bat in the immediate future.
Jul 15, 2009 16:53 PM
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It might be obvious to everyone else that the playoffs last year were BJ's power outlier but not to Joe.
Jul 15, 2009 20:23 PM
Yeah, he's 24, so I wouldn't just write off power potential yet, not when he's flashed real signs of it. In addition to those playoffs, he also hit 24 HRs as a 22-year old. Power usually comes as a guy ages into his prime.
Jul 15, 2009 20:56 PM
I think Justin is better. I believe BJ will have a good 2010 season, and he will improve in 2009 second half because it's not easy to make this ugly line even uglier. However, I just can't imagine him becoming the best player in 2009 second half.
Jul 15, 2009 18:15 PM
Yeah I thought this was gonna be about Justin too. Better power, if less defensive value because of his position (though he's still a strong defender).
Jul 15, 2009 18:52 PM
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His name is BJ.....hehehehehehe.
Jul 15, 2009 21:02 PM
It's pretty obvious that Justin Upton is already and should continue to be the better of the Upton Bros. He could already be a 6+ WAR player -- among the top 10-15 position players in baseball -- as soon as this year, and he's not even 22 years old yet. I know you like to try to identify off the map breakouts, J.S., but that's not really what this particular article is about. You try to justify B.J. Upton becoming an amazing player when his younger, more physically awesome brother already is. Justin Upton all the way on this one.
Jul 16, 2009 00:17 AM
Yeah, BJ might actually be more fun to watch, but I think we're all expecting Justin to be the top bro at this point. I'm a little surprised at Joe's choice of topic. Entertaining article though.
Jul 16, 2009 09:06 AM
I don't have problem seeing BP author using Fangraph stats. Afterall, we are paying to see the work of the author, to learn something new. It doesn't hurt our chance by using more Fangraph's good stuff
Jul 16, 2009 03:30 AM
My point is that FanGraphs built up a body of stats that they rely solely upon to write their articles. BP used to do that, but their defensive stats are pretty low on the reliability factor at this point and their statistic page and links are almost to the point of being worthless in comparison to a site like FanGraphs. BP used to be the de facto standard, but now it seems like they're playing the respondent blogger to FanGraphs' very strong database of statistics and authors. Sheehan has been the most acutely overt in his cribbings from FanGraphs, too. BP should be working to improve their own statistical language and database, not borrowing from others unless they want to be seen as merely freeloading bloggers as opposed to the progressive statistical mavericks they started out as. All I know is that Joe Sheehan and a few other BP authors had no idea what defensive and overall run values were until FanGraphs came along. I'm happy they're realizing their oversight, but it just seems like they should be figuring this stuff out on their own instead of standing on FanGraphs' ever enlarging shoulders.
Jul 16, 2009 06:49 AM
This is a wonderful comment and I have to wonder how much this has to do with guys like Nate Silver moving on to other projects. Don't get me wrong, I'm still a daily BP reader - but as far as advanced metrics and accurate performance analysis go, it's way behind the curve now and that's a shame. Sheehan, Carroll, Goldstein, and everyone else are fine writers... but exploring the metrics are this site is not only a waste of time, it's time consuming and clumsy as well. Considering we've really seen how massive a factor defensive performance in baseball is, it's a complete catastrophe that Baseball Prospectus can't keep up or at least challenge UZR and the Fielding Bible.
Jul 16, 2009 07:11 AM
I second the notion that BP needs to dramatically improve its offerings in terms of defensive stats. Don't get me wrong, I love the site, but this morning the Baltimore Sun made an assertion that Andino and Izturis have virtually identical defensive stats and there was absolutely nowhere on BP that I could go check on that. I ended up going to FanGraphs, which has great data, but I'd love for BP to offer something as well.
Jul 16, 2009 07:37 AM
Joe Sheehan
BP staff
+/- is available through Bill James Online, which is a pay service costing $3/month.
Jul 16, 2009 07:56 AM
Thanks, Joe. My criticism is simply that BP doesn't offer any player-specific data. You guys do an excellent job in communicating the value of defense; I just wish that I had numbers to look at on my own. I definitely think that, especially with defense, there is value to be gained from you guys discussing the other metrics that are out there.
Jul 16, 2009 08:10 AM
Shaun P.
Folks' mileage may vary in terms of the value of things like FRAR/FRAA and Rate/Rate2, but those things are and have been on the players' individual DT cards for ages. And this year, that data (well, FRAR/FRAA) is even in an a standard BP stat report, under WARP leaderboard. I don't play around with the custom reports much, but I bet you can get it from there too.
Jul 16, 2009 09:09 AM
Well, IMO, you cannot possess top percentile HR and SB production in one body. I don't know why people don't realize that. We have all been waiting for years for Crawford, Reyes, now Upton to have this insane speed power combination. NOT GONNA HAPPEN! Your body is built one way or another and the players who really achieve the milestones markers need a variety of factors to go in their favor in order to accomplish something like this. Example, playing for the Washington Nationals doesn't hurt.
Jul 16, 2009 07:40 AM
I think Barry Bonds would disagree with you. And so would Rickey Henderson, Grady Sizemore, Alfonso Soriano, Willie Mays, Bobby Bonds, Daryl Strawberry, Ron Gant, Sammy Sosa, Jeff Bagwell, Carlos Beltran, David Wright, Hanley Ramirez, Jimmy Rollins and Brandon Phillips, just to name a few.
Jul 16, 2009 08:15 AM
Drew Miller
While it is true that such players are rare, I wouldn't say it "cannot" happen. 30-30 seasons are uncommon but not tremendously rare. 40-40 seasons have happened. Eric Davis had a 30-50 season. How many steals would it take for you to consider someone to have top percentile SB production?
Jul 16, 2009 09:56 AM
Drew Miller
"Upton was expected to be a .300 hitter."
Jul 16, 2009 07:57 AM
I think you have to worry about a young power hitter with a shoulder injury. The injury, despite being treated, is never truly and completely healed. After my knee operation to repair a damaged meniscus it became clear to me that it would never really be the same ever again. What happens when your shoulder is never really the same again at 24? I think some players get past it altogether, while for others the injury changes them.
Jul 16, 2009 08:57 AM
I just don't see it. I want to be a believer that BJ Upton is going to turn into a superstar but he strikes out too much and seems to be regressing in some key areas. Someone please convince me he's going to post an incredible line for the second half.
Jul 16, 2009 09:04 AM
People are reading a lot into Justin Uptons 2.5 week hot streak. He has been an .825 OPS player the majority of the season and the hot streak was mostly a big BABIP spike. I still think BJ will be the more valuable player long term and Justin is due for a pretty sizable step back in the second half.
Jul 18, 2009 08:40 AM
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new to black powder
im looking at a traditions kentucky parts kit percussion rifle. im wondering if its a good gun to start out with? i have some experience with black powder guns like cleaning, taking them down just never shot them before. i like how i could do the stock and put it together.
The besy way to learn the shooting end of the hobby is to find others in your area who shoot black powder. Since you have exprience with cleaning and take down, you already have a group to shoot with. Listen to them, and read the owner's manual. If you have ant questions, post them here. There are plenty of us here that are willing to help out when it is needed. Welcome to your new addiction!
I would recommend researching the project before you order the gun. It is a good gun but even a parts kit requires a certain level of skill in order to end up with a decent product. It is a relatively labor intensive project that will require a decent amount of tools,skill and time. Building a bp gun is a labor of love. I've seen a lot of people purchase kits that never get finished.
Is the barrel already blued? Do you know much about wood work and finishing?
Why the kentucky style? Doesn't seem like the easiest model to build.
I was thinking Dixie had them rated by difficulty...
Traditions probably would offer similar advice, if you call them. I would think something like a Hawken-type would be easier, but you should ask them.
It can be a fun project. It does not require any special tools. It can turn out really well even for beginners. The main thing is to take-your-time. Don't try to get it done in a weekend or something like that. If you decide to go for it remember slow and sure is best. Include us in the project too - take pictures and report progress along the way. Many of us on this forum have done these projects.
I see Academy Sports had them for $239
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ISTANBUL (Oct. 5)
Hussein Djahid Yalchin, Turkish member of the U.N. Conciliation Commission for Palestine, told a press conference today that although he agreed with his American and French colleagues on the Commission on implementation of the U.N. decision to internationalize Jerusalem, "it will be the duty of the United Nations to reach a final decision in the light of present conditions."
Mr. Yalchin expressed optimism over the final solution of the Palestine issue and said that considerable progress has already been made towards its settlement. He pointed to the armistice agreements signed between Israel and the Arab states as proof of the efficacy of the Conciliation Commission.
"The difficulties which the Commission had to face in its recent sessions," the Turkish member stated, "were created both by the Jews and Arabs. These difficulties arose from the Arabs' insistence in not recognizing the existence of the state of Israel and the stubborn Israel attitude with regard to the problem of the refugees." Mr. Yalchin added that the "world would hail action" on the part of the Jews in favor of the Arab DP's.
Emphasizing that Israel "is a democratic country wishing to live and develop in peace," Mr. Yalchin predicted that the Jewish state will become a "peaceful element" in the Middle East. He added that "friendly cooperation between Turkey and the various countries of the Middle East–including Israel–will contribute to the stabilization and social progress of the Middle East."


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text: PoliticsMurdered Iraqi-American buried in Najaf Killer of woman beaten to death in California reportedly called her a terrorist and told her to return to Iraq. 01 Apr 2012 05:44 GMT | Politics, Middle East An Iraqi-American woman who was beaten to death in California in an apparent hate crime has been buried in Najaf. The killer of Shama al-Awadi is reported to have left a note next to her body, calling her a terrorist and telling her to return to her country. Al Jazeera's Jane Arraf reports from Najaf.Source: Al Jazeera


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Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 1/10/2013 (1416 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.
MONTREAL -- Phil Kessel got his wish to make it a long stay with the Toronto Maple Leafs.
What general manager Dave Nonis called "short and productive" negotiations ended with Kessel signing a US$64-million, eight-year contract on Tuesday.
The deal has a salary cap hit of $8 million per season. It begins in 2014-15 and runs through the 2021-22 season.
"I'll be on the hook for some team dinners here or there, but I don't mind," Kessel said at a news conference before Tuesday night's season opener at Montreal. "I always wanted to be (in Toronto).
"This is the place I want to play. I want to finish my career here. It's a great city, the organization's unbelievable and I'm really excited to continue here."
The contract includes a limited no-trade clause. Kessel has one season left on his previous deal at $5.4 million.
Nonis said negotiations started last week when Kessel, who could have become an unrestricted free agent next July, told him he wanted to remain a Leaf.
"There weren't negotiations early in camp," said Nonis. "I wanted to hear him tell me he wanted to be a Toronto Maple Leaf and once he did, we were able to work quickly and reach an agreement."
Kessel reportedly wanted either to sign a deal before the season or wait until the summer.
The speedy right-winger had 20 goals and 52 points in 48 games last season. He has 379 points (185-194) in 504 regular-season games over seven seasons with Toronto and Boston.
The six-foot, 202-pound native of Madison, Wis., has 21 points (13-8) in 22 career playoff games. He had four goals, including two game-winners, in Toronto's seven-game, first-round playoff loss to the Bruins last season.
"I think Phil made some great strides in that series," Nonis said. "He had a great year. He's had several great years. That's the one thing I think people overlook."
Kessel also played for the United States at the 2010 Vancouver Olympics.
The two-time all-star, who turns 26 today, was drafted by the Bruins with the fifth overall pick in the 2006 NHL Entry Draft.
He was dealt to Toronto four years ago for two first-round picks and a second-round selection.
-- The Canadian Press


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Clara E. Merchant, age 83, of Mound, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, Oct. 23, 2012 at the Methodist Hospital in St. Louis Park.
Funeral Service was held Saturday, Oct. 27, 2012 at 11 a.m. at Mt. Olive Lutheran Church (5218 Bartlett Blvd.) in Mound with Rev. Mike Michalk and Padre Howie Krienke officiating; visitation was Friday from 4-8 p.m. at Johnson Funeral Home in Waconia and at the church one hour prior to the service; prayer service held 7 p.m. Friday Evening.
Clara Emma Merchant was born on July 3, 1929 in Waconia the daughter of Otto and Magdalena (Thun) Bollmann. She was baptized and confirmed at Trinity Lutheran Church in Waconia.
Clara was a loving mom, grandma and great-grandma. During Clara's lifetime, her doors were always open to anyone in need. She took care of many foster children when her own family was still with her, raising them together as a family. She had a passion for working outside in her flower gardens, even selling plants from her home. Clara's favorite color was red, be it in flowers or any outfit she would wear. In her spare time, Clara liked to go to garage sales.
Clara was preceded in death by her daughter Debra Jean Merchant; father and mother Otto and Magdalena Bollmann; brothers Erwin, Arthur, Henry, Julius and Raymond Bollmann; sisters Caroline Kuehn, Dorothy Altenhofen, Elsie Pratley, Viola Lovel, Eleanor Krienke, La Verna Curfman, Gertrude Raymer.
Clara is survived by her loving family: sons and daughter-in-law Charles Merchant of Montrose, Mike Merchant Sr. of Big Lake, Jim and Mary Merchant of Mound; grandson Mike Merchant Jr.; great-granddaughter Dakota Rose Henderson; nieces, nephews, foster children and friends.
Casket Bearers Charles Merchant, Jim Merchant, Mike Merchant Sr., Mike Merchant Jr., Rick Quast, Adam Gerber.
Arrangements with the Johnson Funeral Home in Waconia; www.johnsonfh.com.
Obits – Clara E. Merchant
Clara E. Merchant, age 83, of Mound, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, Oct. 23, 2012 at the Methodist Hospital in St. Louis Park.


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KISSIMMEE, Fla. - A man is in critical condition after an Osceola County sheriff's deputy shot him during a traffic stop.
The shooting happened Sunday night in the Indian Point subdivision.
Sheriff's officials say the deputy was arrested the man for a probation violation. The man attempted to run and the deputy fired at him after an altercation.
The man was taken to a hospital for treatment. The deputy received minor injuries during the altercation.
The Florida Department of Law Enforcement is handling the investigation.
There were no further details available.
Copyright 2014 by The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.


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Transformation is occurring in downtown Los Angeles with a number of mega-development projects underway or on the drawing boards. Greenland U.S. Holding Inc. broke ground this year on the first phase of the mega-project named Metropolis. The $1 billion project is a combined residential, retail and hotel urban development. The first phase consists of a 19-story hotel with the capacity for 350 rooms and a 38-story residential tower. Both structures are expected to be completed by 2016. Ongoing residential and commercial developments are expected to bring more workers into the downtown area, which will increase consumer spending.
Housing markets remain tight in Southern California, allowing home owners to continue gaining equity in their homes at a relatively fast pace. Case-Shiller home prices for Los Angeles and San Diego were up 16.8 percent and 18.9 percent, respectively, from a year ago in March. After peaking in 2006, home values in Southern California plummeted by around 42 percent. According to March's Case-Shiller Home Price Index, single-family houses in Los Angeles still have to gain another 23 percent from current prices to attain their pre-recession peak. So, a recovering housing market remains an integral part of the economic story for Southern California for the next few years.
Southern California labor markets continue to improve. The construction sector grew 8.8 percent from a year ago in April, adding over 28,000 jobs to the area economy. Most sectors showed solid growth while financial activities and government-related industries have been a drag on area labor markets in the first part of 2014. Southern California nonfarm payrolls are expected to increase 2 percent or 150,000 jobs in 2014.
Click here for the complete Southern California Regional Economic Update: SouthernCA 2014Q1.


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Kentucky won our vote for where to poll this week.
Obviously our main focus will be the US Senate race next year so let us know what Democrats (and Republicans for that matter) you'd like to see us poll against Mitch McConnell.
And of course any other question suggestions for Kentucky would be much appreciated as well- thanks as always!


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I'll say this: Sticky is an original one. It's sort of a platforming game, though there are no real platforms involved. You play as a little orange blob named Sticky, tasked with saving the world from invading black blobs that slowly move from one side of your iPhone's screen to the other. Sticky can defeat these enemy blobs by bouncing on their heads, so it's your job as a player to catapult him back and forth around the little levels in order to hit the bad guys exactly right.
The game is fun, cute and intuitive, and while it's pretty easy to beat the individual stages (at least until power-ups and more obstacles get added into the mix), each stage also rates you out of three stars, so you need to race against time to try and grab a perfect rating as well. Hardcore gamers will want to clear out all of the levels, while younger (or just more casual gamers) can bounce Sticky around and still enjoy playing.
Full Game Center (and Crystal -- Chillingo is publishing) integration extends the experience, and the fact that it's only US$0.99 means it's probably worth a try if you're interested. It probably won't pull me away from Tiny Wings completely, but it's another fun casual experience.


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The Really Great AbbyShot Blog!
Merry Christmas from AbbyShot!
Christmas holidays have begun here at AbbyShot: We're out of the office from December 24th to January 3rd. Before the team goes off on a well-deserved break, however, we want to take a moment to give each and every one of you this well-deserved message:
Thank you for a wonderful 2010!
Your interactions throughout this year have been phenomenal, whether it was through an email, a phone call, a Skype chat, a YouTube video, a Tweet, or a Facebook "Like"! Your support is what makes the AbbyShot Team continually reach for new heights, and we'll be rewarding you with plenty of new and exciting products in 2011.
We'll be checking for urgent e-mails and phone messages throughout the holidays, and then we'll be back at the office again on January 4th!
We wish you the happiest of holidays and the best New Year's yet!
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Overbeck Carries Olympic Torch Through Charlotte as Part of Olympic Torch Relay, Presented by Chevrolet
CHICAGO (Friday, December 7, 2001) - Former U.S. Women's National Team captain Carla Overbeck carried the Olympic Torch in her homestate of North Carolina on Wednesday (Dec. 5) as part of the Olympic Torch Relay presented by Chevrolet. Overbeck ran through Charlotte, N.C., on just the second day of the Olympic Torch Relay. The Torch will make its journey to Salt Lake City in 65 days. The torch will travel more than 13,500 miles and be carried by about 11,500 torchbearers. It will arrive into Salt Lake City on Feb. 7.
Overbeck retired from the U.S. Women's National Team on Dec. 17, 2001, after wearing the captain's armband one final time in a 1-1draw with Japan in Phoenix, Arizona. Overbeck's career spanned 13 years and included three world titles (1991 and 1999 Women's World Cups, 1996 Olympics). She finished her international career with 168 international appearances, fifth most all-time.
The Olympic Torch Relay kicked off on Dec. 4 from Atlanta, Ga. The flame then made its way through Georgia and into South Carolina on the first day, before breaking into North Carolina for day two. News, photographs and much more about the Olympic Torch Relay can be found at: http://media.gm.com/division/torchrelay/.


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Jesse Paul Speer was taken into custody in Belgrade, Mont., with bond set at $2 million. He was awaiting extradition to Wyoming after being arrested for investigation of kidnapping, aggravated assault and felony use of a weapon.
Speer has numerous connections to Colorado, including homes and and photography businesses in Colorado Springs, Woodland Park , Dubois, Manitou Springs and Estes Park, public records show, and he formerly worked at the Trail-Gazette newspaper in Estes Park.
Police say a man lured the 11-year-old girl into his SUV on Oct. 8 by claiming he needed help finding a missing puppy. Hunters found the girl safe outside the town several hours later.
Authorities looked into a possible connection between the case and the disappearance of Jessica Ridgeway, a 10-year-old girl in Colorado, but now they say they don't think the cases are related.
Jessica's body was found in a park about seven miles from her suburban Denver home on Wednesday. No arrests have been made.
Cody Police Chief Perry Rockvam said investigators relied on video surveillance tapes from businesses to identify the vehicle involved in the taking of the Wyoming girl, who has been returned to her family.
Speer is scheduled to appear before District Judge Holly Brown in Bozeman later Monday, Gallatin County Attorney Marty Lambert said.
Without giving details, Rockvam said law enforcement officials at Yellowstone National Park were able to provide a license plate number for a vehicle, which led to the arrest.
Rockvam said the girl was driven to a church parking lot, and her hands were tied. The man told her to keep her head down as he drove through town, hitting her once on the head with the gun when she tried to raise it.
"The victim told the suspect that he knew that he was going to rape her, and the suspect responded that she wasn't going to get hurt," Rockvam said.
The man drove the girl to a mountainous area and sexually assaulted her, Rockvam said. He said the man then put a cloth bag over her head and released her, telling her to count to 50 before she turned around.
Passing elk hunters found the girl, dressed lightly in the mountainous area, and took her to safety, the chief said.
His photography business filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy in 2004, court records show. In public records, Speer has listed being a photographer for the Estes Park Chamber of Commerce and Rocky Mountain National Park, as well as area resorts.
Speer has no arrest record in Colorado.
On his personal Facebook page, Speer last posted Sept. 28, "I'm hitting the road. This is my last photo post for a few weeks. Vacation time is upon me, and I'm taking to the road with a camera in hand — and no particular destination in mind. See you soon ... and thank you for your continued support of my work!"
In an online bio he states he was "born and raised in Kansas City, where I enjoyed a youth filled with the arts and an education within the fine arts program at the University of Kansas."
Speer graduated at 25 years old and sought "adventure, wilderness and identity" in the Colorado mountains.
On his photography website, he states. "My photographic efforts frequently take place in the wild and rural places of the Rocky Mountains and western United States. I find inspiration in both the quiet rural road and the lonely wilderness trail. Yet, I am most captivated by an addictive mix of solitude and solace that comes from my interactions within nature. My portfolios feature favorite moments and meditations from these places."
The Associated Press contributed to this report.


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Telluride Dance
The Palm Arts Dance Program offers workshops and dance classes throughout the year for children and young adults. The instructors are not only professional teachers but have also achieved an enormous amount in their own performing arts careers. The company puts on seasonal performances. The organization also offers masters classes.
Contact Information:
721 W. Colorado Avenue
Telluride, CO 81435
(970) 369-5674


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Hannstar 22inch HD TV (HG216)
Buy Now...
I must admit my initial thoughts were disappointment as the maximum display is 1680x1050 although the graphics card in the system will display a screen up to 2048x1536 and does if set but you scroll to the bits not shown on the 22inch display.
First the dimensions it is 52x42x6.5cm when on it's circular 22cm base that raises the screen around 7cm above your desk. The actual viewing area is 47x29.5cm giving the 21.6 inch diagonal measurement.
I was quite surprised not to find a digital connection but only analogue. However the rear not only has this 15 pin VGA connection and power input but also an HDMI allowing direct connection of any devices such as Blu-ray or HD players.
The unit is silver and very dark grey with the same dark grey colour for the circular stand. On the bottom right edge of the front is a dummy on/off switch and when on you have a 'G' illuminated. Under the edge below this are five buttons (including the on/off switch) to make any adjustments to the display. I found the default settings quite satisfactory even when running the unit at other resolutions right down to 800x600.
Some units look strange when used at 'non optimum' resolutions but this was fine.
I found the colour stayed true throughout a long day and indeed the image did not move on the screen. I was running Windows XP but I see the unit is certified for Vista.
This is a widescreen 16:10 display more I am sure for the HDMI use than PC work but I did force myself to watch a DVD or three and was quite happy with the unit.
The screen itself can be tilted forward and backwards around 15degrees but there is no side to side movement without moving it with the base.
It comes with built in speakers (lead supplied) and the sound quality was quite satisfactory. I remain puzzled why WSXGA 1680x1050 is the best display available my own now ancient 20inch panel does 1600x1200 so surely a 22inch display should manage more.
The box states it has a wide viewing angle and indeed I was happy at up to 160 degrees either side and even from above and below so this would be fine for Power Point displays etc for a small group gathered round.
So a few figures it has 1000:1 contrast ratio, 5ms refresh rate and power consumption of 55watts.
I have of course run not only the DVD's and Power Point displays but a range of graphic and CAD packages as well as good old word processing and spreadsheet programs all without any problems.
Doing my Internet searches found the HannStar HG216 at a best price of £145.39 including delivery from the first link below.
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Discussion in 'Great Skate Debate' started by yukisnowflake, May 31, 2012.
Anyone interested in Opening Ceremony ticket to the 2014 Olympics?
Tickets for sale all at face value:
Men's short 13th Feb 9,000 roubles Sector C24
Dance short 16 Feb 4,500 roubles Sector D23
Ladies' short 19 Feb 4,500 roubles Sector D22
PM me if you are interested!
I've got Olympics FD ticket for sale at face value: 12 000 RUR
It is Catagory B, section D22, row 1
It is Monday, February 17.
PM me if you are interested!
Hi all,
I have the following Sochi Olympics tickets for sale. I'm not an agent or reseller, just a figure skating fan who bought these through CoSport when they went on sale last year and can no longer attend. Asking face value (from the CoSport price list) or best offer. Will accept PayPal and ship via a speedy, trackable method of your choice.
Team Ice Dance Short Dance / Team Ladies Short Program / Team Pairs Free Skating
Saturday, Feb 8, 18:30 - 23:05
Category B, Sec A24, Row 2
$331 each ($662 total)
Team Men Free Skating / Team Ladies Free Skating / Team Ice Dance Free Dance
Sunday, Feb 9, 19:00 - 22:10
Category C, Sec D23, Row 8
$248 each ($496 total)
Men's Short Program
Thursday, Feb 13, 19:00 - 23:30
Category B, Sec D23, Row 6
$372 each ($744 total)
Hello All,
Unfortunately there were two families in our group that are unable to attend the games. We are left with a group of tickets - we bought them for very close to face value and are selling them at cost. We are families of athletes and can provide confirmation of authenticity.
This is what we have available. Tickets can be sold individually.
Feb 6th - Team Event Day 1 - 1 Ticket - $700
Feb 8th - Team Event Day 2 - 2 Tickets -$700 each
Feb 9th - Team Event Day 3 - 4 Tickets -$800 each
Feb 11th - Pairs Short - 4 Tickets -$500 each
Feb 12th - Pairs Final - 3 Tickets -$700 each
Feb 13th - Mens Short - 1 Tickets -$600
Feb 14th - Mens Final - 1 Tickets -$1300
Feb 16th - Dance Short - 4 Tickets -$600 each
Feb 17th -Dance Final - 4 Tickets -$700 each
Feb 19th - Ladies Short - 3 Tickets -$650 each
Feb 20th - Ladies Final - 1 Tickets -$1100
Feb 22nd - Gala - 4 Tickets -$700 each
please contact me at firstname.lastname@example.com if you have any questions or are interested in purchasing.
The ticket is still available. It was purchased through German official reseller with a surcharge, but I am selling it at face value.
PM me if you're interested.
Olympic ticket available!
Mens short: Category B $500
Also World championship in Saitama - one day ticket:
$190(18,500yen) each day
If you are interested, PM me
Worlds olny left for 26th, category is S
Olympic tiket still available, I remember that I didn't write : discount Okey!!
Selling my last few tickets:
1 Team 2: $600
3 Pairs Short: $500
2 Ladies Short: $650
Please email me at email@example.com if your interested
Turns out I have a few extra tickets for the O's.
Feb 8, 6:30-11:05 p.m. (Saturday): Team Dance Short, Ladies Short, Pairs Free
1 Cat C: B22 Row 8
Feb 10, 6-11:25 p.m. (Monday): Men's Moguls Freestyle Skiing
2 CatB: General admission
Feb 13, 7-10:30 p.m. (Thursday): Men's Short
1 Cat B: D21 Row 3
1 Cat D: D24 Row11
PM if you're interested. I'll be in Sochi from Feb. 5-15.
figure skating practice on 12/2 entrance B sector C2 row 9 seat 2
figure skating practice on 19/2 entrance B sector C2 row 3 seat 26
500rubles each.
Am in Sochi
Hi there. Hope you're enjoying the Olympics! I am in Sochi too & would be interested in the training ticket for the 19th if you still have it. Sorry I couldn't send a PM as your inbox is full.
Still looking for 1 ticket (preferably in S/A category, but B/C would also do it as last resort) for day 4 (29th March 2014) of Worlds in Saitama. Many thanks in advance, pls contact me via pm. Thank you!
I have two Gala tickets for Worlds in Saitama. They are e-tickets so I can transfer to the buyer immediately:
Worlds Saitama - Gala March 30th - 2 Tickets:
Section: S Gate A Lv200 Door 215
Row: 4
Seats: 274-275
Please PM me if interested
I have 1 exhibition ticket for Worlds in Saitama on 3/30 (Sun) and I hope to trade the ticket with 1 ticket for Day 4 Ice dance Free and Ladies Free on 3/29 (Sat).
1 Exhibition ticket on March 30th (no name printed)
Section: S Gate A Lv200 Door 221-222
Raw: 12
Seat: 445
Please PM me if you can do the trade or you have 1 extra Day 4 ticket.
Thank you in advance.
2 US Stars On Ice tickets for sale
+ floor-level ticket
Prudential Center, Newark, NJ
Wed, Apr 9, 2014 07:00 PM
Section 20, Row A
+ 3rd row on the long end
Cumberland County Civic Center, Portland, ME
Sat, Apr 19, 2014 07:30 PM
Section U, Row 3
DM me if interested. Thanks!
1 "on ice" ticket for Canadian Stars on Ice
May 13th, Victoria BC
The seat is on ice A side, pretty close to center
Please PM me if interested, Thanks!
Looking for a Toronto CSOI ticket, good location. Please PM me if you have an extra ticket to sell.
Last-minute extra free ticket for Stars on Ice in San Jose this afternoon (4 PM 5/11) -- awesome seat, and I can go pick you up from anywhere in the Bay Area for the drive down to SJ (or we can meet there). PM me before 2:15 PM -- after that, I'll just head down from SF & look for anyone at the SAP Center that might be waiting for a ticket. Thanks!
I have an extra all-event ticket for Skate America. Section 115 Row 6. Please PM if interested.
Looking for ticket/s for Friends on Ice 2014
Looking for tickets for 22nd and 24 evening performance
Please PM me if you have any!
Tickets are sold!
Gonna be needing a single full package to Skate Canada, If anyone ends up giving one of those up
(Hopefully killer seats, As there are only crappy ones left)
Looking for a practice pass for US Nationals in Greensboro to use on Wednesday and/or Thursday. Will pay for the privilege.
Just an FYI, but last time in Greensboro (2011) there were no practice passes. To get into practice at the main rink you needed tickets to every session being held that day. You would exchange your tickets for a wristband that would allow you entry into the practices and allow you to remain in the arena/concourses between sessions.
The second (practice) rink should be free and open to attend by anyone as long as there is not a competition scheduled at the second rink.
One U.S. Nationals all event ticket for sale. Section 108 row NN (judges side, center ice). Includes the Exhibition. Please PM me if interested.
ETA: Ticket has been sold!
I have an extra ticket for Carnival on Ice in Saitama, Japan for October 4th. It is an S-level ticket (row 15). Willing to sell it at cost (18,000 yen) if anyone wants it. Please PM me if interested.
I have two sponsorship tickets available for "An Evening with Champions" show at Harvard for Saturday, September 20. They are in Section H, Row 8. The tickets also give you access to the meet and greet after the show. PM me if interested - thanks!


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Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 7/3/2013 (1628 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.
EDMONTON -- Winnipeg's Jeff Stoughton won his fifth consecutive game at the Canadian men's curling championship Thursday afternoon, dropping New Brunswick's James Grattan 6-5 to improve Manitoba's round-robin record to 7-1.
The Manitoba win combined with a 6-5 loss by Newfoundland's Brad Gushue to Ontario's Glenn Howard vaulted Manitoba into second place heading into Manitoba's game Thursday evening against Northern Ontario's Brad Jacobs (5-3), which was still underway at press time.
After opening at 4-0, Jacobs lost three of his last four games -- including Thursday morning to Saskatchewan -- and limped into the Thursday night's contest against a Stoughton team who have been unblemished since their lone loss back on Sunday evening to Ontario.
Stoughton said the math for his team is simple -- win their final three round-robin games and they will play Saturday in the Page playoff 1 vs. 2 game, where the winner advances straight to Sunday's final while the loser gets a second chance in the semifinal. "That's a huge advantage to get the 1-2 game," said Stoughton. "So if we can win out, we're guaranteed the 1-2 game and that's where want to be."
Stoughton has a soft finish to his round robin today, taking on N.W.T.'s Jamie Koe (3-6) this morning and then finishing up tonight against B.C.'s Andrew Bilesky, who only got his first win here Thursday afternoon, 8-7 over N.W.T., to improve to 1-7.
Stoughton says he feels like his team isn't yet playing as sharp as they can and suggested, for the first time this week, that perhaps the ice conditions aren't to his liking.
"There's one or two shots here and there that you'd like back. And the ice is definitely getting straighter with any type of weight. So we're just getting used to very minimal ice on hits. It takes a little while to get used to so little broom when you're throwing on arena ice."
Ontario, on the other hand, isn't complaining about anything these days. Howard remained the only undefeated skip in the standings thanks to a hard-fought victory over Newfoundland Thursday afternoon that improved his team's record to 8-0.
"We just want to keep the pedal to the metal now and keep building on how we're playing," said Howard. "I can't say enough -- my guys were just outstanding in that game."
Ontario second Brent Laing, third Wayne Middaugh and Howard all led the field in shooting percentage at their respective positions heading into Thursday night's draw. Ontario also led in team shooting percentage.
The Newfoundland loss was the second in a row for Gushue, who matched Howard shot-for-shot but was simply the lesser team in a game that dropped his team's record to 7-2 after opening at 7-0.
"We played a good game," said Gushue, "we just came up against a great team that played great...It seemed like every chance we got, we'd make a good shot and then they'd just cap it right away with a good one."
In other games Thursday afternoon, Alberta's Kevin Martin won his third game in a row -- 7-2 over P.E.I. -- to improve to 4-4 and keep his playoff hopes alive.
"Everything's going fine. We just have to keep winning and we'll see what happens," said Martin.
Alberta has a tough schedule to finish. They played Saskatchewan (4-4) Thursday night and then finish their round robin with games today against Newfoundland and Ontario.
Jeff Stoughton's late draw vs Northern Ontario was still in progress at press time. For details see www.winnipegfreepress.com


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IRS revokes group's tax exemption over anti-Clinton statements
Gregory Korte of the USA Todayreported on Monday that the IRS has revoked the tax-exempt status of a conservative-aligned charity, the Patrick Henry Center for Individual Liberty, for engaging in political activity as far back as the 2004 presidential election – including statements opposing Hillary Clinton for president.
According to a written determination released by the IRS on April 18, the Manassas, Virginia-based organization "has shown a pattern of deliberate and consistent intervention in political campaigns" and made "repeated statements supporting or opposing various candidates by expressing its opinion of the respective candidate's character and qualifications," the article stated.
Although the name of the group was redacted from the determination, the facts of the case match statements made by the Patrick Henry Center's founder, Gary Aldrich, a former FBI agent. A separate IRS notice confirms that the Patrick Henry Center's tax exemption was revoked in February.
Korte wrote that Aldrich did not return phone calls or e-mails seeking comment.
Watchdog: Budget and staffing cuts hurting IRS performance
A report released yesterday by the US Government Accountability Office (GAO) shows that annual funding for the IRS has declined by about 6.6 percent since fiscal year 2010 and that "the resulting imbalance between service and demand has adversely affected operations," Josh Hicks of the Washington Postreported.
Total IRS appropriations from Congress totaled about $12.15 billion for fiscal 2010, compared to roughly $11.3 billion for this year.
The report also said IRS performance levels for enforcement and taxpayer services have "decreased or fluctuated" since 2009, during which time the agency lost the equivalent of about 8,000 full-time employees, Hicks wrote. The GAO found that the average wait time for telephone service has nearly doubled since 2009, rising from 8.8 minutes to 16.8 minutes as of March.
President Obama's 2015 budget proposal asks Congress to fund the IRS at a level of $12.5 billion, which would represent an increase of more than 3 percent compared to this year.
GAO: IRS can make improvements without new funding
But as Bernie Becker of The Hillwrote yesterday, the GAO says the IRS can do more within its current funding constraints, including spelling out more clearly the agency's goals for answering taxpayer questions on the phone, such as appropriate wait times.
"Additional funding is not the only solution," the report said, according to the article.
The GAO also suggested the IRS more deeply examine its enforcement programs, to see which bring back the most revenues per dollar spent, and craft a long-term strategic plan for online services.
Airlines rank ahead of IRS in customer satisfaction
From Charisse Jones in today's USA Today: "For the second year in a row, airlines earned a score of 69 out of 100 points, according to the American Customer Satisfaction Index travel report. That is among the lowest of any industry or agency, hovering above only the IRS, subscription television providers, and social media sites."
Click here to download the report.
Amazon sales take a hit in states with online tax
In one of the first efforts to quantify the impact of states accruing more tax revenue from web purchases, researchers at Ohio State University published a paper this month that found sales dropped for Amazon when the online charge was introduced, Adam Satariano of Bloombergreported today.
In states that have the tax, households reduced their spending on Amazon by about 10 percent compared to those in states that don't have the levy. For online purchases of more than $300, sales fell by 24 percent, according to the report titled The 'Amazon Tax'.
Satariano noted that Amazon has enjoyed an edge against brick-and-mortar retailers because consumers didn't have to pay a sales tax for purchases from the e-commerce site, yet that has eroded as states, including California and Texas, have unveiled the levies.
"There is no ambiguity," Brian Baugh, one of the report's authors from Ohio State's Fisher College of Business, said in an interview with Bloomberg. "It has been their competitive advantage."
Amazon and other online retailers have fought some efforts to implement the taxes, with the US Supreme Court in December rejecting an appeal by the company to rule against a New York law forcing it to collect money from customers. New York and others have said the push to tax Amazon is an effort to treat online and brick-and-mortar retailers equally.
Will sales taxes doom Amazon?
Bloomberg View columnist Matthew C. Klein believes that imposing state and local sales taxes on Amazon purchases would be good for municipal budgets and help level the playing field for other online retailers, but do little for brick-and-mortar establishments.
He cited the results of the Ohio State research paper, which found that retailers competing with Amazon had their sales increase by 3.4 percent, with much of those gains coming from greater online purchases rather than more buying from stores. Amazon's competitors also saw sales increase by 9.2 percent when shoppers were spending $300 or more. Klein noted that shoppers also shifted their spending to vendors on the Amazon Marketplace, almost none of which collect tax but all of which pay fees to Amazon. These smaller operators experienced sales increases of 15.2 percent overall and 60.5 percent for big-ticket items.
"The question is whether years of tax subsidies for Amazon ultimately benefited the rest of us by nurturing a company with the resources to invest in new products, distribution channels, and lower prices," Klein wrote. "Would online shopping have taken off without the tax benefit?"
Quick Links:
- Baker Tilly manages to get half of audits right, per UK regulator (Going Concern)
- Here's how this Deloitte consultant gets away with working 3 days a week (Going Concern)
- UK tax authorities question banks on VAT swindlers (Bloomberg)
- US Department of Justice v KPMG: Document shows "too few to fail" was opening premise (re: The Auditors)
- What investors can do to minimize taxes next year (Wall Street Journal)
- Big firms fill funding gap (Wall Street Journal)
- Court decision makes a mess of conflict-minerals rule (CFO)
- Production Tax Credit is common-sense policy (The Hill)
- States: Spike in tax fraud against doctors (Krebs on Security)
- The misleading debate about the corporate income tax (Forbes)
- Puerto Rico woos rich with hefty tax breaks (MarketWatch)
- Taxpayers hit twice by fast-food pay practices: Report (The Fiscal Times)
- James Franco's ex-manager, accounting firm sued for diverting actor's commissions (Variety)


text: thrillsmee, Flickr [ Would You Like To Smell Like Pizza? Really [VIDEO] By Amy Austin December 7, 2012 Okay, I've heard everything now. Pizza Hut has actually developed, and is selling, their own fragrance. Pizza - seriously? Well, I think the scent is more like pizza dough, but really!? Read More Category: Cool Things Found on Web Tags: burger king, fragrance, pizza hut, poll Send to a friend! Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Pin it! Reddit This! Share on Tumblr!