text:
'Rock of Ages' review: As edgy as Tommy Lee's tea party, as sexy as 'Rock Lobster'

'Rock of Ages'

'Rock of Ages' (June 13, 2012)

Zero stars (out of four)

Some things that might be worth noting when making a musical inspired by the attitude and sleaze of 1987 L.A. hair metal:

>> Just because someone loves rock ‘n’ roll doesn’t mean they include the phrase “rock ‘n’ roll” in every sentence. When recognizing songs like “Talk Dirty To Me” as sex music, don’t suggest dry humping represents the peak of behind-the-scenes indulgence.

>> Churchgoing women protesting rock music probably wouldn’t do a choreographed dance to Pat Benatar’s “Hit Me With Your Best Shot.” (It’s like the basketball players in “High School Musical” singing about how much they hate singing.) Also, an examination of the period’s morals shouldn’t come rigged with hypocrisy from those protesting (including Catherine Zeta-Jones as the leader of women aiming to “Clean up the strip”).

>> If you’re going to have a sing-along on a bus, you should probably feature passionate music fans belting out something raw. Average Midwesterners joining in on Night Ranger’s “Sister Christian” will make Cameron Crowe wish he never turned “Tiny Dancer” into a group effort.

>> The era’s lows included overdoses and fatal, drug- and alcohol-infused car crashes, not just a veteran singer (Tom Cruise) who’s not nice to people anymore.

>> Strip clubs actually have nudity, not the women of “Burlesque” hanging on poles while manager Mary J. Blige sings Journey’s “Any Way You Want It.”

>> It’s not necessary to feature a small town girl in a lonely world singing Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believin’” or a rock star lamenting the solitude of the road with Bon Jovi’s “Wanted Dead or Alive.” The songs are the stories, and the subjects singing songs to which we know all the words add no clarity about their lives.

>> Just because it’s 1987 doesn’t mean someone has to make a joke about how Michael Jackson’s looking pale these days. The Jackson jokes have been made. Leave him alone.

Laughable before the opening credits end, the blasphemous “Rock of Ages” (co-written by Chris D’Arienzo from his Broadway play) is far from the first musical to shape chart-topping songs into a story. Except we’d all be better off just listening to the music, not barback/aspiring musician Drew (Diego Boneta) singing Twisted Sister’s “I Wanna Rock” as if he wrote it, or Alec Baldwin and Russell Brand singing along to Joan Jett’s “I Love Rock ‘n’ Roll.”

I like this music, but not like this, not with its sweat and energy replaced by the tale of goody-two-shoes Sherrie (Julianne Hough), who, of course, travels from Oklahoma to L.A. with big dreams and no idea what the big city will bring. And lipstick with which to draw a heart and “D+S” on a mirror when she falls for Drew.

Hollywood frequently struggles to capture rock on screen. “The Rocker” acted as if Teddy Geiger were a tough guy, while “Across the Universe” put great Beatles songs in the mouths of characters who didn’t deserve them, and the guilty pleasure “Rock Star” embraced the posturing of late ’80s rock but went soft on its priorities.

With “Rock of Ages,” director Adam Shankman tries to re-do “Hairspray” for ex-groupies who now just sing karaoke. The movie becomes embarrassing for everyone involved, including Paul Giamatti as a seedy agent who belts out part of Whitesnake’s “Here I Go Again,” Malin Akerman as a supposedly hard-hitting journalist who also sleeps with her subject, and Stacee Jaxx’s (Cruise) monkey, whose reactions we see constantly.

Why not give the artists on screen an actual creative identity, not continually shift from one character singing Def Leppard as their own and then a different scene in which original Def Leppard plays? Shankman also doesn’t suggest any passage of time, so Drew’s transition from rock to boy band pop achieves in seemingly four days what should have taken three years.

“Rock of Ages” isn’t a tribute to hedonism, it’s a playlist that makes “Glee” look musically insightful by comparison. For many, Poison and other bands of the time represent enjoyably vapid novelty music, easy to mock but equally easy to shut up and enjoy. It was a time when fake boobs would get you backstage, but phoniness like “Rock of Ages” deserves to be tossed out the back door on its ass.

Watch Matt on “You & Me This Morning,” Friday at 7:30 a.m. on WCIU, the U

mpais@tribune.com. @mattpais

Featured Stories

CTnow is using Facebook comments on stories. To comment on ctnow.com articles, sign into Facebook and enter your comment in the field below. Comments will appear in your Facebook News Feed unless you choose otherwise. To report spam or abuse, click the X next to the comment. For guidelines on commenting, click here.


Content-Type: application/http; msgtype=response

WARC-Type: response

text:
Senate Judiciary Committee Holds Hearing On Protecting Mobile Privacy

Jason Weinstein, who prosecuted high-profile federal cases in Baltimore, stepped down from his post at the U.S. Department of Justice after being criticized in an agency report for failing to spot problems and rein in Operation Fast and Furious, a botched gun-smuggling sting. (Getty photo / May 10, 2011)

At a community meeting for paroled felons in the East Baltimore, the mother of Bloods gang leader Kevin Gary faced down federal prosecutor Jason Weinstein. She told him to stop harrassing her son, whom she described as "a champion for the downtrodden," recalls former city police Commissioner Frederick H. Bealefeld III, who also attended the meeting.

Weinstein, familiar with Gary's criminal record, did not back down. "I hear you ma'am, but if your son doesn't stop what he's doing he's going to prison with the rest of these guys," he responded, according to Bealefeld.

While in Baltimore, Weinstein prosecuted some of the most high-profile cases of the last decade, and Bealefeld and others who worked with him said he had a mastery of detail and an intimate knowledge of city violence. But he moved on to the U.S. Department of Justice headquarters, and in an agency report last week, Weinstein was criticized for failing to spot problems and rein in a botched gun-smuggling sting that led to the death of a federal agent. He has stepped down from the agency.

Given his work fighting violent crime in Maryland, Weinstein wrote in his resignation letter that he would never have allowed weapons to get into the hands of smugglers and drug dealers.

He echoed that theme in an interview: "I've devoted my career both before I got to [agency headquarters] and since I've been here to keeping guns out of the hands of criminals and reducing violence."

In 2009, Weinstein was transferred from his Maryland post to the Washington headquarters, where he approved wiretap applications that were part of Operation Fast and Furious, which allowed guns to flow into the hands of criminals on the Mexican border in an attempt to build cases against drug gang leaders.

A report by the agency's inspector general said Weinstein was the most senior official who could have reined in the program, which federal prosecutors and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives in Arizona ran "without adequate regard for the risk it posed to public safety." In December 2010, two guns that were supposed to have been tracked under the operation were found at the scene of Border Patrol Agent Brian Terry's murder.

Had Weinstein read wiretap requests more thoroughly, the report said, he would have noticed that the ATF was letting suspected smugglers buy weapons and sell them to drug cartels, a strategy known as allowing guns to "walk."

"What we heard consistently from more than a dozen officials ... was that guns did not walk," Weinstein said. Weinstein has said it was standard practice to only review letters for wiretap applications rather than the affidavits themselves.

The report has elicited a show of support for Weinstein. In a response to the inspector general, U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder described Weinstein's efforts on violent crime as "highly successful."

"The American people are safer because of his work," Holder added.

In Maryland, where Weinstein served as an assistant U.S. attorney for almost seven years, he is credited with bringing the resources — and weighty sentences — of the federal justice system to bear on violent crime and improving his office's relationship with city police.

During Weinstein's tenure in Maryland, the state was dealing with what officials described as a "stop snitching" culture, and several cases that strained the cooperation between the community and law enforcement.

In October 2002 — his first month on the job — Angela and Carnell Dawson were killed along with their five children in a firebombing of their East Baltimore home after confronting neighborhood drug dealers.

Weinstein said he was also influenced by The Baltimore Sun's coverage of Solothal Thomas, a notorious hitman known as Itchy Man who had beaten several murder charges.

"My introduction to Baltimore was reading this article about this guy that everyone knew was the most violent guy in the city but no one could make a case stick against," Weinstein said.

Weinstein started working to tackle gun crime in the city and prosecuted some of Baltimore's most violent criminals, including Darrell L. Brooks, the arsonist behind the Dawson murders. He eventually convicted Itchy Man himself of murder for hire in 2006.

"It was a big moment in helping sending a message to criminals who thought they were untouchable," Weinstein said.

In an emailed statement, Rod Rosenstein, the U.S. attorney for Maryland, praised Weinstein's "superb" legal skills and "boundless energy."

"In addition to spending his days working tirelessly to prosecute Maryland's most dangerous criminals, Jason spent some mornings lecturing to police officers about criminal procedure and quite a few evenings speaking directly to violent repeat offenders," he added.

Those talks — Weinstein met Gary's mother at one — were part of the EXILE program that Weinstein brought to Maryland. It brings together state and federal prosecutors, law enforcement and probation officers to target the worst criminals in Baltimore and the rest of the state.

U.S. Rep. Elijah Cummings, the top Democrat on a House committee that investigated Fast and Furious, called Weinstein's work on violent crime "legendary."

"Operation EXILE is something I have often pushed for and is something that's very important to me because I see so much violence not only in my city, but in my neighborhood," Cummings said.

Weinstein had a policy of sending letters to uncooperative suspects in state cases, informing them that they would be prosecuted federally unless they pleaded guilty.

Another former police commissioner, Ed Norris, found himself on the receiving end of Weinstein's aggressive style when he was prosecuted for misusing public money in 2004. Norris said he believes Weinstein was overly ambitious, and made more of the case than it was worth because he was determined to prosecute a high-profile target.

"If I didn't plead guilty they said I wouldn't see my son grow up," Norris said. "I would have confessed to anything."

George J. Hazel, a former assistant U.S. attorney, brought some of that style to his new job, chief deputy state's attorney for Baltimore City. The major investigations unit at the office borrows heavily from Weinstein's strategy, Hazel said.

In 2009, just before he left for Washington, Weinstein showed that he was not swayed by Gary's mother's admonishment and made good on his promise to put him in prison: Gary was convicted of a racketeering conspiracy and sentenced to 30 years.

warcinfo:
robots: classic
hostname: ip-10-180-212-248.ec2.internal
software: Nutch 1.6 (CC)/CC WarcExport 1.0
isPartOf: CC-MAIN-2014-23
operator: CommonCrawl Admin
description: Wide crawl of the web with URLs provided by Blekko for July 2014
publisher: CommonCrawl
format: WARC File Format 1.0
conformsTo: http://bibnum.bnf.fr/WARC/WARC_ISO_28500_version1_latestdraft.pdf


text:
On the back cover of Rebecca Gayle Howell’s debut book of poetry “Render: An Apocalypse” (Cleveland State University Poetry Center: unpaged, $15.95 paper), there’s a definition I’ve never seen. In it, we learn that “apocalypse” can mean “a literary genre informed by hallucination, grief, and a long view of history (primary concerns: the past, the present, and consequence).”

Is this for real? A quick look at Webster’s leaves me with my doubts. And yet, either way, it manages to encapsulate all that’s vivid and moving about Howell’s remarkable collection, winner of the 2012 Cleveland State University Poetry Center First Book Prize, which uses the filaments of farm life (growing, tending, slaughtering) as a lens, a metaphor for … well, everything.

“Drop memory / like glass // down into the bath / Bring up the heat // slow so none notice / nothing shatters,” Howell writes in “How to Preserve,” one of the 23 numbered poems that make up the book. Here, we see her method: to illuminate through the most mundane activities of daily existence, something of the struggle and nobility of living.

Howell makes such a point explicit in the paired poems “A Catalog of What You Have” and “A Catalog of What You Do Not Have” the first of which offers a litany of residue (“the offal // the slop, swill — pitiless / river — the beak the bone”), while the second reads, in its entirety: “Enough.”

What makes this work so powerful is its precision. It may seem a gimmick to write a one-word poem, but, following on the heels of “A Catalog of What You Have,” it provides a perfect punctuation point.

So, too, the sequence of poems in the second half of the book in which Howell likens slaughtering a pig to a kind of lovemaking; “Don’t miss / shoot her square,” she writes in “How to Be a Man,” before concluding, “The black-dawn air / cold and mean // The wet fog your breath / Or is it hers.”

There’s an unexpected intimacy to such an image, a sense of the physicality of life, of death and of endurance, which in the end is all we have. Howell gets at all of this with precision, pitiless but not unfeeling, knee-deep, waist-deep in the world.

In his foreword, Nick Flynn — who selected Howell’s manuscript for the First Book Prize — puts it this way: “To enter into these poems one must be fully committed, as the poet is, to seeing this world as it is, to staying with it, moment by moment, day by day. Yet these poems hold a dark promise: this is how you can do it, but you must be fully engaged, which means you must be fully awake.”

“Do you remember how close / you were to her,” Howell writes in “How to Kill a Hog,” tracing the complex lines that connect us, human and livestock, the interplay of love and sacrifice, “when she was farrowing / and she needed you // her bawling drawing / you out of bed.” The poem then goes on to describe the birthing of piglets before returning to the slaughter of their mother, which is (has always been?) the matter at hand.

Here we see the signal tension that embodies “Render,” between soul and body, between our desire and our need. “[C]lose your eyes just once,” Howell admonishes, “just once // do not turn away.”

Making poetry accessible

Amy Gerstler and Alexis Smith discuss the art of collaboration ...

Michael Demson's graphic novel of Shelley's radical 'Mask of Anarchy'


text:
Dainon Sidney

A collection of news and information related to Dainon Sidney published by this site and its partners.

Top Dainon Sidney Articles see all

Displaying items 1-3
  • Rams beat Titans, 23-16, to win Super Bowl

    The sound emanating from the St. Louis Rams on Sunday went from Whooooosh! to Whew! in Super Bowl XXXIV.
  • Game 8: End zone again out of bounds

    Game 8: End zone again out of bounds
    This is what October has come to for the Ravens: On the 1-yard line, quarterback Tony Banks produced a fumble when he should have had a touchdown.On the 9-yard line, Tennessee Titans quarterback Steve McNair produced a touchdown when he should have...

    Game 11: Wide smiles for Ravens

    Game 11: Wide smiles for Ravens
    The Ravens beat the Tennessee Titans as much on memory as they did on willpower yesterday. It was a game of deja vu for tight end Shannon Sharpe, redemption for wide receiver Patrick Johnson and sheer joy for quarterback Trent Dilfer, all of whom had...


text:
Tim Ruddy

A collection of news and information related to Tim Ruddy published by this site and its partners.


text:
Archive Links

Consumer Archive
CU System Archive
Market Archive
Products Archive
Washington Archive

News Now

CU System
Texas league develops advocate training series
FARMERS BRANCH, Texas (11/15/10)--The Texas Credit Union League (TCUL) has developed a “Navigator Series” of training sessions to help credit union legislative coordinators become stronger advocates in preparation for the 2011 legislative session. A TCUL release said the Navigator Series prepares legislative coordinators for a higher level of political involvement by combining information about the “nuts and bolts” of the political process with best practices for engaging members and employees in grassroots advocacy. Topics covered by the three-part series include:
* Navigating the Capitol by finding a route to important sites and understanding how bills are passed; * Navigating the relationship to effectively communicate the credit union’s role and concerns, handle meetings and learn best practices for employee and member involvement; and * Navigating the issues by reviewing key issues and players in the 2011 legislative session.
The first session was held early this month, while the second session will occur in December and the third will be in January. In the future, the first two portions of the Navigator Series will be aimed at new legislative coordinators, while the “navigating the issues” segment will be offered to all coordinators to prepare them for upcoming legislative sessions, the league said.

RSS print
News Now LiveWire
July 's Fed Bank's "FedFocus" has some interesting articles: incl cost/benefits of $1 currency 2 coin conversion ttp://
7 hours ago
Do you wish you were a News Now subscriber? Go here:
8 hours ago
Financial education for student body key part of Altura #creditunion, UC-Riverside partnership #NewsNow
9 hours ago
.@VTcreditunions gains 200 new FB followers in just 2 wks to reach 1,000
9 hours ago
.@CUNA is testifying on reg relief Tues,July 15 at 2 p.m. be4 Hs Fin Serv Subc. Here is the agenda and witness list:
12 hours ago


text:
Archive Links

Consumer Archive
CU System Archive
Market Archive
Products Archive
Washington Archive

News Now

Senate exam improvements bill introduced
WASHINGTON (3/8/12)--Legislation intended to strengthen the safety and soundness of the financial system by increasing the consistency and fairness of financial institution examinations has been introduced in the Senate.

Bill co-sponsors Sen. Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) and Sen. Joe Manchin (D-W. Va.) in a release said the legislation would establish a "more transparent approach" to financial institution examinations and allow for a "more robust appeals process for times when there is a legitimate disagreement" between a regulator and the regulated.

The bill would establish a new inter-agency ombudsman to investigate complaints about examinations and look at examination quality assurance, require regulators to provide clear and consistent loan treatment guidelines, and prevent regulators from retaliating against institutions that challenge their determinations.

The legislation is similar to the Financial Institutions Examination Fairness and Reform Act (H.R. 3461), which was introduced in the House last November.

The Credit Union National Association (CUNA) supports examination fairness legislation and said of the House bill, "It is a firm step in the right direction toward ensuring the federal financial institution regulatory agencies conduct fair exams, which are consistent with the law and regulation and ensure safety and soundness."

H.R. 3461, which is co-sponsored by House Financial Services subcommittee on financial institutions chair Rep. Shelly Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) and ranking member Rep. Carolyn Maloney (D-N.Y.), has 107 cosponsors.

RSS print
News Now LiveWire
July 's Fed Bank's "FedFocus" has some interesting articles: incl cost/benefits of $1 currency 2 coin conversion ttp://
7 hours ago
Do you wish you were a News Now subscriber? Go here:
7 hours ago
Financial education for student body key part of Altura #creditunion, UC-Riverside partnership #NewsNow
8 hours ago
.@VTcreditunions gains 200 new FB followers in just 2 wks to reach 1,000
9 hours ago
.@CUNA is testifying on reg relief Tues,July 15 at 2 p.m. be4 Hs Fin Serv Subc. Here is the agenda and witness list:
11 hours ago


WARC-Truncated: length

text:
Mechanics Weigh In: Disc Brakes

Pin It
Shimano's new CX75 Cyclocross and Road Mechanical Disc Brake

Shimano's new CX75 Cyclocross and Road Mechanical Disc Brake. photo: Shimano

Disc brakes have really struck a cord with readers, racers and mechanics as everyone starts planning out what new gear to invest in for the coming season. We got a lot of feedback on our last Mechanical Monday topic of disc brakes, so much so that Stu Thorne, the owner of, called to chat with me for a bit about his thoughts on disc brakes. Last season, Thorne put his rider Tim Johnson on them for a few races, and Johnson was favorably impressed. For more on Johnson’s disc brake views though, you’ll have to wait for our feature story on him in the next print issue. (Can’t wait? Check out Tim Johnson with his Cannondale SuperX.) Today, Mike Smith of Rad Racing shares his two cents with us.

by Mike Smith
Mechanic, Rad Racing Northwest

Although I didn’t get to work on any disc brake-equipped cyclocross bikes this year, I do feel that we will be seeing more disc brakes popping up on cyclocross bikes in the upcoming seasons. While I’m somewhat split on the idea of disc brakes on cyclocross bikes, there’s no way one can overlook the advantages offered and the disadvantages presented with the technology.

With a team based in the muddy Pacific Northwest, the advantages are many. With disc brakes, mud clearance and build-up are dramatically reduced. This translates directly to a lighter bike and fewer bike exchanges through the course of a race. No one can deny the braking power afforded by disc brakes. Imagine bombing into that sketchy corner on your favorite course that much faster, knowing that you can clamp on those disc brakes and slow down just in time. Disc brakes also make switching between aluminum and carbon wheels faster if you are one to constantly swap out brake pads for different conditions or rim materials.

Despite the advantages, I still think there are disadvantages to be addressed. Just as when the transition happened with mountain bikes, many people have an established quiver of wheels. These would all have to be migrated over to disc at what could be a fairly substantial investment.  If you’re not fortunate enough to have a back-up bike in the pits, you likely depend on neutral support or your own set of wheels in the pits. I’m guessing at this point, most neutral support teams at our local races don’t have disc-equipped spare wheels. This pretty much guarantees that you will need to factor in the price of a new disc-specific wheelset with any new disc brake-equipped bike to prevent mid-race DNFs from flats or other wheel issues.

Ultimately, I think the adoption of disc brakes in the cyclocross world will be slower than what was experienced in the mountain bike industry. I don’t think the driver behind this will be the advantages or disadvantages of the system, but rather, due to much of cyclocross’s equipment coming from road technology. This will require the road market to change as well for a widespread adoption. While this isn’t the case for scenarios using cable actuation and semi-custom wheels, if we want to eventually progress to full hydraulic systems and still use our favorite big name factory wheels, this is going to require the current brake/shift lever and wheel manufacturers to adopt disc brake technology on product lines that need to service the needs of both road and cyclocross racers.

In any case, I’m excited (and a bit anxious) for the possibilities of disc brakes on cyclocross bikes and where it will lead the technology for both road and cyclocross.

Want to know what’s out there? Shimano has started to take cyclocross seriously, and at the North American Handmade Bicycle Show (NAHBS) in Sacramento, the company has unveiled a new mechanical disc brake for cyclocross racers that is scheduled to be ready for this fall. For a video tour of the new disc-equipped Felt bike, check out our look at the Felt 65X Disc-Equipped bike.

Cyclocross Magazine, Issue 22, Print and digital subscriptionsHave you subscribed yet? You're missing out if not. Get all-original content and your cyclocross fix throughout the year with a subscription and Issue 23 back copy, with features on Lars van der Haar, Jonathan Page, Elle Anderson and more!
Tagged as: , , ,

Having spent this last year with my oldests low end MTB on the and off the roof of the car I can say with conviction I would not touch mechanical disks on a cross bike.  Maybe hydraulic ones will be less finicky but pretty close to each time on and off the car I had to readjust the front pads.  The rear which was not being swapped in and out was fine.  I haven't touched it.  I can't imagine trying to do race wheel swaps with a mechanical disk. This bike has Hayes mechanical disks and they work well enough when they are setup correctly, but with the wheel on and off they don't stay that way.

Stay up to date:

Search for a product, review, race or racer:

Visit these cx-loving companies:

Support CXM at no extra cost to you:

About Us | Jobs | Subscribe | Contact Us

Copyright © 2007-2014 Cyclocross Magazine - Cyclocross News, Races, Bikes, Photos, Videos All rights reserved.


text:
TechPowered By

More tech

Armstrong: Contador can only get better

Cycling News
July 30, 2007, 1:00 BST,
April 22, 2009, 20:09 BST
First Edition Cycling News for July 30, 2007
Lance Armstrong watches on during the final stage

Lance Armstrong watches on during the final stage

view thumbnail gallery

By Greg Johnson Just hours after becoming the youngest rider to take the maillot jaune since Jan...

By Greg Johnson

Just hours after becoming the youngest rider to take the maillot jaune since Jan Ullrich's '97 win, Discovery Channel's Alberto Contador has received one of the biggest compliments of all - the praise of seven-time Tour de France champion Lance Armstrong. The Discovery Channel part-owner arrived in France to watch his 24 year-old rider defend the yellow jersey in Saturday's Time Trial, and having seen the Spaniard's work under immense pressure first hand, the American thinks Contador may even break his own record of Tour wins.

"Records are there to be broken and if Alberto can begin winning Tours at this age we will see how far he can go," Armstrong told Spanish daily Marca. "Contador is a very talented rider who is very explosive in the mountains and also does well in the time-trials but let's not forget he is only 24 and can only get better."

"He is the great hope for the future not just for Spanish cycling but for the sport as a whole," added the Texan. On Saturday, Armstrong told Cyclingnews after the time trial, "I think we'd have to say that it's the best overall Tour we've ever had as an organisation".

Discovery Channel's team manager Johan Bruyneel echoed Armstrong's comments. "Since Lance retired people are always asking, Who is the next Armstrong?'" Bruyneel said to "I think he's up there on the podium, in the yellow jersey. They are obviously different types of riders but Alberto has many key characteristics that remind me of Lance. He is a rider capable of executing a strategy, a plan for a race. He has the world at his feet now."

The 2007 edition has seen Discovery Channel return to its former glory at the Tour, after struggling to find itself an identity in 2006 following Armstrong's retirement. The American ProTour squad will leave France this July with a swag of results: in addition to Contador's maillot jaune and young rider's jersey, Discovery has won the teams classification, victories on Stages 15 and 19, and a total of three riders in the top 10 on general classification, with Levi Leipheimer in third and Yaroslav Popovych in eight joining Contador.

"It's been a great Tour for us," said Armstrong. "We came to win the white jersey (for best young rider) and a stage and we are leaving with the yellow jersey, the white and stage wins. This is without doubt reason for happiness and optimism."

Armstrong rode in the Discovery Channel team car on Saturday's Time Trial, where Contador had to minimise his time loss to Predictor-Lotto's Cadel Evans, as morale support. While Contador said Armstrong didn't speak to him directly during the stage, he could hear the American in the background while team manager Bruyneel talked him through the stage.

"I tried to give him confidence and advice to keep his lead and calm his nerves but I don't know if he was listening to me because there was a lot of noise in the car," said Armstrong.

The squad's Tour success will undoubtedly add weight to its bid to find a replacement sponsor for Discovery Channel, which is withdrawing from the sport at the end of 2007. Bruyneel has recently been quoted as saying the team's management is close to signing off on the new sponsorship deal.

Contador's victory sees the maillot jaune return to Europe for the first time since Italian Marco Pantani won the event in 1998. Americans, primarily Armstrong, dominated during the eight year gap with Floyd Landis' 2006 victory tagging onto the end of Armstrong's seven consecutive wins.

Back to top


text:
TechPowered By

More tech

Tour de France shorts: Riblon super combatif, BMC try to the end

Cycling News
July 21, 2013, 12:02 BST,
July 21, 2013, 13:08 BST
First Edition Cycling News, Monday, July 22, 2013
Tour de France, Stage 21
Christophe Riblon (Ag2r La Mondiale)

Christophe Riblon (Ag2r La Mondiale)

view thumbnail gallery

No penalty for Rolland, Albasini extends with Orica-GreenEdge

Riblon the Tour's most combative rider

Each day the Tour de France hands out a red bib number to the rider who has put the boots to the peloton the hardest with the combativity prize. On the penultimate stage, one rider is chosen above all others for riding above and beyond, and this year's winner of the super-combativity award is none other than Alpe d'Huez stage winner Christophe Riblon of AG2R La Mondiale.

"That's great! I was not selected in 2009 and I think this year I deserved it. I was present in the breakaways on all the major mountain stages, including Ax-3 Domaines and Ventoux, and I was at the front today again," Riblon said.

The Frenchman has been a fixture in the breakaways in the Tour de France over the past few years, and it has so far netted him a stage win on Ax 3 Domaines in 2010 and one day with the red dossard in 2009.

"Being designated as the super-combative rider of the 100th Tour de France really means something. This is a great reward for me. I always dreamed of this image, alone on the podium on the Champs-Elysées with the Arc de Triomphe in the background! I really enjoyed this Tour de France and there is still all day tomorrow to enjoy it."

No penalty for Rolland

The race jury decided not to penalize French rider Pierre Rolland (Europcar) for his actions at the fourth ranked climb of the 19th stage. The fight for the few mountain points nearly got physical on the  category 3 Col des Pries.

Rolland came into the stage only one point down on KOM Chris Froome. He was the first to attack and took the points at the first climb. Igor Anton (Euskaltel) was also in the mix for the polka-dot jersey, and joined the lead group to claim the second climb. Rolland again won the third climb.

At the fourth climb, however, the two came to the summit together with AG2R's Christophe Riblon. Anton sprinted and so did Rolland, cutting off the the Basque rider and slamming into him. Riblon took the top points, as Anton protested to Rolland at being denied his opportunity.

Most observers thought the objections were justified, but not the officials. Tour director Jean-Francois Pescheux claimed not to have seen the sprint. The race jury said only, “We noted no irregularities.”

It was all for nothing, anyway. The King of the Mountain jersey went to Nairo Quintana (Movistar), who as stage winner took the points atop the HC mountaintop finish.

BMC all or nothing

The BMC racing team is one of the very few who have not won a stage or worn a jersey during the Tour de France, but they were not going to give up without a try on stage 20. Marcus Burghardt entered into the day's breakaway, and as the gap started to plummet between the breakaway and the field, world champion Philippe Gilbert launched out of the peloton dragging last year's best young rider Tejay van Garderen across to the move with him.

The two only managed to make it up to a chasing group behind solo attacker Jens Voigt (RadioShack), but no further.

 "We wanted to race and not just follow," van Garderen said after the stage. "That was sort of a last-ditch thing, we had a slim chance, but it was our last chance so we had to take it."

The team's pre-race GC hopeful Cadel Evans is on the eve of completing a disappointing race, and has learned that racing the Giro d'Italia as preparation for the Tour can backfire.

"I came here with big ambitions – that's how I go for the Tour and that's what has gotten me good results in the past," Evans said. "This year we made a choice about the program leading into the Tour. We always knew it could work but it could also backfire and not work. Obviously the result here was to say it didn't work for the Tour."

Albasini extends with Orica-GreenEdge

Michael Albasini has an extra reason to celebrate in Paris at the end of the Tour de France, after signing a new contract with the Orica-GreenEdge team for 2014 and 2015.

The experienced Swiss rider went close to winning stage 14 to Lyon, losing a close sprint to Matteo Trentin (Omega Pharma-Quick Step) but helped the Australian team to victory in the Nice team time trial.

"I know I could have had options with other teams, but when it came time to sign, I realised that I don't want to leave this one," said Albasini in an announcement from the team as the riders headed to Paris.

"As our music video shows, we have a really good team spirit here. It's nice to work where you can also
have fun."

Directeur sportif Matt White described him as one of the stalwarts of the team.

"He is a very reliable rider in nearly every terrain. He's a winner, but he's also a super teammate. We've seen that here at the Tour, and we've seen that at every race he starts. He gives as much to his teammates as he does to his personal goals," he said.

Orica-GreenEdge announced last Wednesday that Cameron Meyer has also extended his contract with the team and further announcements are expected as the transfer season kicks off in August.

Back to top


text:
Follow Us
Be a fan on Facebook
Follow us on Twitter

Have some questions?
Talk to an expert now.

Call Toll Free

Customer Service
Mon-Fri 8-4 PST

Mon-Fri 8-5 PST
Sat-Sun 8-4 PST

Sponsored Link
Your Choices
Narrow Results
1 items found for
Sort By
Corner   Indoor   Home Bars   Less than $930
Filtered by: Corner Remove Indoor Remove Home Bars Remove Less than $930 Remove clear all

$1,100.25 retail

Featured reviews

Howard Miller Sonoma Hide A Bar

This is a well made piece of furniture. It holds a lot, I mean A LOT. The drawers are a nice touch. The mirror is great. It's a ...    Read more
- Shopper in Houston, TX

Howard Miller Niagara Hutch Back Bar

The hutch attaches to the console inconspicuously. The glass and mirror draw attention to the glasses hanging from the racks. ...    Read more
- Shopper in Cornelius, NC

Crosley Furniture Newport Expandable Bar Cabinet in Vintage Mahogany Finish

I got this as a gift for my buddy who recently got his own place and he loves it! It doesn't take up too much space and it's a b ...    Read more
- Shopper in New York, NY

Sponsored Links

Previously Viewed
Back to top
Back to top
Back to top
My Account
About Cymax Stores
Ordering Information
Return, Damage and Cancellation
Using My Account
General Information
CUSTOMER CARE: 866-740-9830
Copyright ©2014CYMAX STORES USA LLC All rights reserved.
Cymax Stores


text:
Follow Us
Be a fan on Facebook
Follow us on Twitter

Have some questions?
Talk to an expert now.

Call Toll Free

Customer Service
Mon-Fri 8-4 PST

Mon-Fri 8-5 PST
Sat-Sun 8-4 PST

Sponsored Link
Your Choices
Narrow Results
2 items found for
Sort By
Gel Fueled   wallmount   Fireplaces   Less than $260
Filtered by: Gel Fueled Remove wallmount Remove Fireplaces Remove Less than $260 Remove clear all

Featured reviews

Southern Enterprises Portable Indoor/Outdoor Gel Fireplace

i can move it anywhere in the house its so lightweight just wish gel fuel was just abit less expensive
- Shopper in phila pa

Slate White Corner

This fireplace is a must have in your home, business etc. The unique realistic design will fool anyone to think you had a real f ...    Read more
- Shopper in Orlando fl

Real Flame Ashley Fireplace

- Shopper in Bronx NY

Sponsored Links

Previously Viewed
Back to top
Back to top
Back to top
My Account
About Cymax Stores
Ordering Information
Return, Damage and Cancellation
Using My Account
General Information
CUSTOMER CARE: 866-740-9830
Copyright ©2014CYMAX STORES USA LLC All rights reserved.
Cymax Stores


text:
Carpenter dealing with neck stiffness

JUPITER, Fla. (AP) -- Chris Carpenter said he has been dealing with neck stiffness for several days and missed his scheduled throw on Wednesday.

The Cardinals' right-hander is not sure if he will throw Friday, his next scheduled side session.

Carpenter was expected to make his first spring start Monday in one of the Cardinals' split squad games against either Atlanta or Washington.

The Cardinals have held back Carpenter this spring after he threw 273 1/3 innings last year, including the postseason.

Manager Mike Matheny gave no indication of a timetable for the right-hander.


text:
Terrebonne Parish resident in need of some holiday help

Published: Tuesday, December 21, 2010 at 10:37 a.m.
Last Modified: Tuesday, December 21, 2010 at 10:37 a.m.

MONTEGUT — David “Big Red” Authement has never been one to accept charity from others.

However, that all changed recently when a local church offered him assistance in the form of hand railings for the staircase leading to his front door.

Members of Vision Christian Center, Authement’s church, contacted the Rev. Ray Marcel, pastor of Cornerstone Four Square Church in Houma, to help install the hand railings.

“It brought tears to my eyes,” the disabled 39-year-old father of two said. “All they asked me for was a pot of coffee.”

For more on this story, read Wednesday's Courier and Daily Comet or check back at houmatoday.com or dailycomet.com.

Reader comments posted to this article may be published in our print edition. All rights reserved. This copyrighted material may not be re-published without permission. Links are encouraged.

▲ Return to Top


text:
House members back push for special session

Published: Tuesday, October 23, 2012 at 3:58 p.m.
Last Modified: Tuesday, October 23, 2012 at 3:58 p.m.

BATON ROUGE — A Lafourche Parish lawmaker delivered a petition signed by 38 state representatives to the House clerk Tuesday, bringing his drive for a special session one step closer to reality.

A bipartisan group of 39 House members signed a petition seeking a formal vote on whether to hold a special session challenging Gov. Bobby Jindal's recent budget cuts. Thirteen senators also must sign a petition before the ballot would go out. A look at the House members supporting the idea:

—Andy Anders, D-Vidalia.

—James Armes III, D-Leesville.

—Jeff Arnold, D-New Orleans.

—Austin Badon, D-New Orleans.

—Regina Barrow, D-Baton Rouge.

—Wesley Bishop, D-New Orleans.

—Roy Burrell, D-Shreveport.

—Patrick Connick, R-Marrero.

—Kenny Cox, D-Mansfield.

—John Bel Edwards, D-Amite.

—A.B. Franklin, D-Lake Charles.

—Randal Gaines, D-LaPlace.

—Brett Geymann, R-Lake Charles.

—Jerry "Truck" Gisclair, D-Larose.

—Joe Harrison, R-Napoleonville.

—Chris Hazel, R-Pineville.

—Cameron Henry, R-Metairie.

—Dorothy Sue Hill, D-Dry Creek.

—Dalton Honore, D-Baton Rouge.

—Marcus Hunter, D-Monroe.

—Katrina Jackson, D-Monroe.

—Ted James, D-Baton Rouge.

—Patrick Jefferson, D-Homer.

—Robert Johnson, D-Marksville.

—Sam Jones, D-Franklin.

—Terry Landry, D-New Iberia.

—Bernard LeBas, D-Ville Platte.

—Jack Montoucet, D-Crowley.

—Stephen Ortego, D-Carencro.

—Vincent Pierre, D-Lafayette.

—Ed Price, D-Gonzales.

—Steve Pugh, R-Ponchatoula.

—Gene Reynolds, D-Minden.

—Jerome "Dee" Richard, I-Thibodaux.

—Harold Ritchie, D-Bogalusa.

—John Schroder, R-Covington.

—Patricia Smith, D-Baton Rouge.

—Alfred Williams, D-Baton Rouge.

—Patrick Williams, D-Shreveport.

Source: Clerk's office, House of Representatives.

However, Rep. Dee Richard of Thibodaux, who has no party affiliation, said actually crossing the finish line will be a real challenge.

With a Thursday afternoon deadline approaching, he still needs another 13 signatures for the Senate's petition.

If Richard is successful, the signed petitions from the two chambers will trigger a balloting process where all 144 members of the Legislature will be asked by mail to vote on calling a special session.

Only 35 signatures were needed from the House to begin the process there, and it was supported by Reps. Truck Gisclair, D-Larose, and Joe Harrison, R-Napoleonville.

Reps. Gordon Dove and Lenar Whitney, both Houma Republicans, did not endorse the call for a special session.

Richard said lawmakers have been left out of the decision-making process by Gov. Bobby Jindal's administration and a special session can be used to reverse the planned closures of the Paul Phelps Correctional Center in DeQuincy and Southeast Louisiana Hospital in Mandeville.

He also cited reductions of $152 million in state and federal money for seven south Louisiana hospitals in the system it operates.

Locally, the Leonard J. Chabert Medical Center in Houma is facing a $14.3 million cut and a loss of 245 jobs or more than a quarter of the hospital staff.

“The fact that we are left out of this process of where cuts should be made is very disturbing to me, and I believe this is the Legislature's only avenue of trying to get a seat at the table,” Richard said.

Dove, chairman of the House Natural Resources Committee and dean of the local delegation, said lawmakers from Terrebonne and Lafourche have been meeting with hospitals in the region to find a solution for the Houma medical center while Richard has busied himself with calling a special session.

“We've been in active negotiations trying to find a solution,” Dove said, adding a public-private partnership is one possibility. “If we can't find a solution, then maybe we should think about a special session.”

Whitney echoed Dove's assessment that delegation members are already “working together to build a stronger system.”

Like other conservative lawmakers, she added it would be an “unwise use of public funds” to call a special session, and lawmakers could potentially end up proposing higher taxes or raising fees, which she opposes.

Richard said there's nothing he can do about how much a special session would cost to conduct.

“So, yes, it may cost taxpayer money, but how much taxpayer money will be spent on the upcoming regular session that could be better spent?” he asked. “I am willing to take a stand for our independence as the legislative branch, and if we can get a majority of both houses to agree, a special session could be in the making.”

Whitney said she's also hesitant to call a special session when there are “no solutions” that have been proposed for lawmakers to review.

Richard said the time for specific policy proposals would eventually come.

“If we were fortunate enough to actually meet in special session, I will be prepared with legislation to restore funding in order to restore those cuts that are possible,” he said. “I'd like to make it clear that I do not judge if these cuts were right or wrong, but as an elected state legislator, I would think we should have input that would show why certain cuts were made and if needed.”

If Richard is successful with the Senate petition and then the balloting of the Legislature, his proposed session will span 15 days beginning Nov. 26.

By all accounts it would be an extraordinary feat, considering it's the governor who traditionally calls special sessions.

Richard's petition includes four call or agenda items, which limit what can be debated and passed during the proposed session.

It is limited to bills related to:

- “Any closure, privatization, reduction in personnel and services, or level of funding of any state health care facility or human services district”

- “Any sale of any LSU system hospital; any plan for a cooperative endeavor agreement with a private provider to operate a system hospital; or any reduction in services at an LSU system hospital”

- “Any closure, privatization, reduction in personnel and services, or level of funding of any state-operated correctional facility”

- “Reestablishing eliminated or reduced services relative to correction facilities, health care facilities or human services districts”

Jeremy Alford can be reached at

Reader comments posted to this article may be published in our print edition. All rights reserved. This copyrighted material may not be re-published without permission. Links are encouraged.

▲ Return to Top


text:
Farewell to prep football

Published: Thursday, November 29, 2012 at 10:00 a.m.
Last Modified: Thursday, November 29, 2012 at 10:09 a.m.

It's time to say goodbye to the area's 2012 high school football season.

It came to an end last week when Vandebilt Catholic's quest for a state championship ended in Monroe with a 51-14 loss to Neville in the Class 4A quarterfinals.

As the final seconds ticked off the clock, it was a bittersweet feeling to know that the season had ended.

For the past three months, we've watched players from area schools battle it out under the lights of Friday nights.

After Vandebilt was eliminated last week, it meant that local fans will have to wait until next year to enjoy prep gridiron action again.

It's sad to say goodbye to prep football because there is nothing like it.

Football has always brought our communities together with its hard-hitting action. It's always good to see the pride that local fans have in supporting their favorite schools.

Simply put, there is no better place to be on a Friday night than at a high school football game.

It was no different this year as we enjoyed some great action.

Although the area will not have a team competing for a state championship this year, six local schools (South Lafourche, Terrebonne, Vandebilt Catholic, Assumption, E.D. White Catholic and Houma Christian) advanced to the Louisiana High School Athletic Association state playoffs.

The only local team to win a playoff game was Vandebilt, which enjoyed an incredible season.

The Terriers finished 11-2, claimed their first district title since 2002 and won two playoff games to advance to the Class 4A quarterfinals for the first time since 2007.

Vandebilt was a solid ball club in all areas, but unfortunately, it just didn't have enough to get past the defending Class 4A state champion and No. 1-seeded Neville.

Led by standout senior quarterback Elijah McGuire, the Terriers made things interesting in the second quarter by cutting the lead to 16-14 right before halftime.

But as soon as they had some momentum on their side, Neville and its all-world quarterback John Diarse quickly snatched it away, using a long touchdown pass as time expired in the first half to roll to a blowout win.

Vandebilt had a great season, and to win two playoff games in a tough Class 4A showed the determination, work ethic and pride the players and coaches had this year.

I also have to give final props to McGuire for an amazing season. He capped his senior year with amazing numbers, rushing for a total of 2,603 yards and 31 touchdowns, which was the best overall in the state this season.

Those are some impressive stats, and I'm sure no one who watched McGuire play this season will ever forget his performances.

McGuire enjoyed one of the best prep seasons ever by a player from our area, and there is no question that he earned his stripes as one of the best players in the state this year.

There were several other highlights from this past season.

South Lafourche had an undefeated regular season, making it the second time in school history that the Tarpons accomplished that feat.

Ellender snapped a 32-game losing streak in its opening game of the season and went on to win four-games.

Houma Christian advanced to the Class 1A playoffs in only its second full season as a varsity program.

Covenant Christian was ineligible for a playoff berth this year, but the Lions won five games, which will give it a good foundation heading into the future.

The prep football season is over, and it's time to close the door on it, but I'm already looking forward to another exciting season next year.

Staff writer Chris Singleton can be reached at 857-2213 or 448-1200 ext. 2213 or chris.singleton@houmatoday.com.

Reader comments posted to this article may be published in our print edition. All rights reserved. This copyrighted material may not be re-published without permission. Links are encouraged.

▲ Return to Top


text:
In other Lafourche Parish Council action: Dec. 12, 2012

Published: Wednesday, December 12, 2012 at 10:53 a.m.
Last Modified: Wednesday, December 12, 2012 at 10:53 a.m.

The following is a rundown of action taken Tuesday by the Lafourche Parish Council Tuesday. Councilman John Arnold was absent. All votes were unanimous unless otherwise noted.

Action: Passed ordinances to accept into the parish maintenance system these subdivisions: Plantation Garden Subdivision phase 2, Crescent Estates Subdivision phase 2, Cyril Scioneaux et al, Norris Matherne Subdivision, a portion of property belonging to Wendell and Gail Rouge designated tract 1 and Division of a .580 acre lot into lot 1, 2 and three of property belonging to Donald J. Hebert.

Action: Passed an ordinance to amend parish permit fees.

Action: Proposed an ordinance abolishing the Lafourche Home Mortgage Authority.

Action: Asked the administration to file a quarterly report on any position that is filled increasing parish government staffing. Councilman Joe Fertitta and Daniel Lorraine opposed.

Action: Approved a cooperative-endeavor agreement between senior citizen centers and the parish government for the Lafourche on the Move program.

Action: Approved a cooperative-endeavor agreements for each Lafourche Parish Recreation District for various improvement and operation costs.

Action: Reset a previous resolution dictating who can sign checks issued by parish government to remove former Parish Administrator Crystal Chiasson.

Action: Approved the purchase of a Ford Explorer for the Office of Coastal Zone Management.

Action: Amended the bylaws of the Office of Community Action and the advisory board.

Action: Approved an engineering contract with J. Wayne Plaisance Inc. for pre-storm recreation-facility repairs and Hurricane Isaac facility repairs in Recreation District 3.

Action: Approved a confidentiality agreement between the parish government and Louisiana Housing Corp. to obtain information on damage to homes in the parish.

Action: Approved an intergovernmental agreement between parish government and the Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals to draw down from the Federal Financial Participation in the Louisiana Medicaid Program.

Action: Approved the contract with Author Gallagher Risk Management Services to provide commercial general-auto liability, public officials and employee’s liability, excess workers’ compensation and crime insurance coverage.

Action: Approved an agreement with Laris Insurance Agency to provide commercial property, equipment-inland marine and boiler-machinery coverage.

Action: Approved the hiring of Charles W. Butts. of Real Estate Appraisal Service to appraise property at 146 East 28th St. in Cut Off.

Reader comments posted to this article may be published in our print edition. All rights reserved. This copyrighted material may not be re-published without permission. Links are encouraged.

▲ Return to Top


text:
Today and Friday's Sports Calendar

Published: Thursday, April 4, 2013 at 10:00 a.m.
Last Modified: Thursday, April 4, 2013 at 10:08 a.m.

Ellender at Morgan City, 4 p.m.

South Terrebonne at Assumption, 4 p.m.

Westgate at Terrebonne, 5 p.m.

New Iberia at Thibodaux, 6 p.m.

H.L. Bourgeois at Central Lafourche, 6 p.m.

Berwick at Vandebilt Catholic, 6 p.m.

E.D. White Catholic at St. Charles Catholic, 4 p.m.

St. James at Donaldsonville, 4 p.m.

Thibodaux at South Lafourche, 4 p.m.

Central Lafourche at New Iberia, 4 p.m.

Ellender at Vandebilt Catholic, 4 p.m.

Morgan City at Assumption, 4 p.m.

Westgate at H.L. Bourgeois, 4 p.m.

Houma Christian at Ridgewood Prep.

Central Lafourche vs. E.D. White Catholic, 3 p.m.

Terrebonne at South Lafourche, 3 p.m.

E.D. White Catholic Tournament at Bayou Country Club in Thibodaux, 3 p.m.

Fakier Open, first round, at Ellendale Country Club in Houma, 8 a.m.-7 p.m.

New Orleans Zephyrs at Nashville Sounds, 7:05 p.m.

Teurlings Catholic at E.D. White Catholic, 3:30 p.m.

Houma Christian at Country Day, 4 p.m.

H.L. Bourgeois at Terrebonne, 4 p.m.

Donaldsonville at E.D. White Catholic, 4 p.m. (DH)

Vandebilt Catholic at Riverside Academy Tournament.

Houma Christian at John Curtis Tournament.

Tiger Relays at Thibodaux High.

H.L. Bourgeois at Mobile Meet of Champions.

Texas A&M-Corpus Christi at Nicholls, 6:30 p.m. (Radio: 640-AM)

Kentucky at LSU, 7 p.m. (TV: CST; Radio: 96.7-FM)

Hornets at Jazz, 8 p.m. (TV: FSNO; Radio: 640-AM, 1490-AM)

Fakier Open, second round, at Ellendale Country Club in Houma, 8 a.m.-7 p.m.

New Orleans Zephyrs at Nashville Sounds, 7:05 p.m.

Today. The Thibodaux Express AAU boys basketball program is seeking head coaches and assistant coaches for the 2013 AAU basketball season. Experience is not necessary, but enthusiasm and dedication are required. If interested, call Brian Rhodes at 438-0953.

Today. The Louisiana Magic girls softball travel organization is looking for a couple 11-12-year-old players to fill out its roster for the upcoming spring/summer season. The players cannot have turned 13 after Jan. 1. For information, contact Deanna Cunningham at 209-7789.

Today. The Cajun Youth Athletic Association is holding registration for its Cal Ripken (9-12 by May 1) and Babe Ruth (13-15 by May 1) local spring/summer baseball season in Houma. The cost is $50 for the Cal Ripken league per season and $60 for the Babe Ruth league per season. For information, contact president Roy Himel at 791-9803, secretary Tracy Bourg at 232-3329, Cal Ripken director Shawn Chaisson at 637-4727 or Babe Ruth director Aaron Dazee at 709-3131.

Saturday. The Assumption High School athletic department is holing a four-man golf scramble on Saturday at Bayouside Golf Course in Napoleonville. The cost is $85 per player or $340 per team. Prizes and a golf trip can be won. Tee times are 8 a.m. amd 1 p.m. Entrance fee includes a T-shirt, meal and soft drink. Players are allowed two mulligans. There will also be a raffle. All money made will go to the Assumption athletic department. For information contact the school at 985-369-2956 or girls basketball coach Julius Aucoin at 513-2691.

Saturday. The Thibodaux Select boys summer basketball team will hold at car wash fund raiser on Saturday. The car wash will be held at South Louisiana Bank, located at 6405 West Park Avenue in Houma, from 12:15 p.m. to 5 p.m. The cost is $5. The team is made up of seventh and ninth grade boys basketball players from the local area. They will compete in AAU and YBOA basketball tournaments this summer.

April 12. The Third-Annual Putt for the Park Golf Tournament benefiting the Larose Regional Park and Civic Center is set for April 12 at LaTour Golf Club in Mathews. The shotgun start is set for 8 a.m. Tee box sponsors are available for $100 per hole and golfers can pay one price ($25) for a betting bracelet. There are also $500 team entries and $600 corporate team entries.For information, contact the Larose Civic Center at 693-7355.

April 19-21. Thibodaux High School will hold its annual alumni softball tournament April 19-21 at Hero’s Park in Thibodaux, and all Thiboduax High alumni are encouraged to participate. For information, contact Thibodaux athletic director Tony Clark at 447-4071.

May 4. The Terrebonne Parish Sportsman’s League has a variety of events upcoming. There will be a children’s rodeo at the Point-Aux-Chenes Marina on May 4 and a crawfish boil for members on May 14 at the East Park Recreation Center. The 12th Annual Youth Rodeo is free for kids 4-15, and registration begins at 7 a.m. Each child registered will receiver a T-Shirt and hat and food and drinks will be served. For more information, contact Sportsman’s League vice president Jason Magee at 688-3405 or secretary Troy Bonvillain at 804-7504.

May 18. The Third Annual One Small Step for Prader-Willi Syndrome Run will be held at 6 p.m. on May 18 at Mulberry Park in Houma. Registration ($25 for 5K) will begin at 4:30 p.m.. There will be a kids (12 and under) 1/2 mile run at 5:30 p.m. and the 5K starts at 6 p.m. Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS) is a complex genetic disorder that occurs in approximately one out of every 15,000 births. The most notable symptom is an insatiable hunger and most people with PWS are not able to control their food intake. Hyperphagia coupled with a metabolism requiring only 50-60 percent of the calories of a typical peer can lead to excessive eating, diabetes, morbid obesity and even death. All of the proceeds from One SMALL Step events are used to fund Prader-Willi research as directed in the Prader-Willi Research Plan. Please visit for more info on PWS and current research plans. Visit for more details or contact Maegan Ricahrd at 860-4080 or email her at

June 10. The H.L. Bourgeois High School Third Annual “Renewing the Reservation” Golf Tournament will be June 10 at Ellendale Country Club in Houma. The four-person scramble costs $400 per team. There are morning (7:30 a.m.) and afternoon (1 p.m.) flights. For information, call 804-1260 or email:

Reader comments posted to this article may be published in our print edition. All rights reserved. This copyrighted material may not be re-published without permission. Links are encouraged.

▲ Return to Top


text:
CSG Interconnect Wholesale Billing Management Solution Implemented at OMEA TELECOM / Virgin Mobile F

CSG Interconnect Wholesale Billing Management Solution Implemented at OMEA TELECOM / Virgin Mobile France

Operator Wins Swift Return on Investment by Automating Processing of Complex Inter-Carrier Traffic and Previously Unbilled Activity

WOKING, England & ENGLEWOOD, Colo.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- CSG International, Inc. (NASDAQ: CSGS), a global provider of software and services-based business support solutions (BSS) that help clients generate revenue and maximize customer relationships, today announced that Virgin Mobile France has implemented CSG Interconnect® as a key component of its wholesale billing management solution.

Virgin Mobile France is the largest Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) in France with 1.7 million subscribers. The business recently invested in a full MVNO infrastructure and now has the ability to use networks from both Orange and French telecommunications provider, SFR, for its customers. It also has the freedom to form additional domestic and international direct partner agreements including for voice, data and SMS/MMS interconnection. CSG Interconnect will automate partner management, carrier-to-carrier rating, billing and settlement and help speed disputes management and reconciliation. It will provide Virgin Mobile France with detailed financial reporting as well as interfaces to other systems. Therefore, in an incredibly competitive environment, Virgin Mobile France wants to establish an effective partner settlement management process and optimise the wholesale revenue opportunity. According to the operator, the CSG Interconnect® solution realised a positive return on investment within just several weeks of implementation by automatically identifying and processing partner traffic passing through its network, including complex traffic not spotted before, then applying agreed charges.

CSG Interconnect is a market-leading wholesale business management solution handling every kind of network traffic for local, regional and worldwide operators in a single, highly integrated platform. The solution is part of CSG's Wholesale Business Management Solution (WBMS) which provides highly-efficient partner management, optimized traffic trading and routing through the network, accurate billing and settlement for all services including traditional voice, data, IP/content and GSMA roaming services.

"Inter-carrier traffic is a huge contributor to operator costs and revenues," said George Fraser, Vice President of EMEA, CSG International. "CSG Interconnect offers operators the opportunity to maximize the returns they get not just by connecting with neighboring networks, but with the rest of the world."

About CSG International

CSG Systems International, Inc. (NASDAQ:CSGS) is a market-leading business support solutions and services company serving the majority of the top 100 global communications service providers, including leaders in fixed, mobile and next-generation networks such as AT&T, Comcast, DISH Network, France Telecom, Orange, T-Mobile, Telefonica, Time Warner Cable, Vodafone, Vivo and Verizon. With over 30 years of experience and expertise in voice, video, data and content services, CSG International offers a broad portfolio of licensed and Software-as-a-Service (SaaS)-based products and solutions that help clients compete more effectively, improve business operations and deliver a more impactful customer experience across a variety of touch points. For more information, visit our website at www.csgi.com.

CSG International
Elise Brassell, 303-804-4962
Media and Industry Analyst Relations
Investor Relations
Liz Bauer, 303-804-4065
Harris Communications
Derek Harris, +44 (0) 1395 516 613

KEYWORDS:   United Kingdom  United States  Europe  North America  Colorado  France  Ireland

The article CSG Interconnect Wholesale Billing Management Solution Implemented at OMEA TELECOM / Virgin Mobile France originally appeared on Fool.com.

Try any of our Foolish newsletter services free for 30 days. We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

Copyright © 1995 - 2013 The Motley Fool, LLC. All rights reserved. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

Increase your money and finance knowledge from home

Investing in Real Estate

Learn the basics of investing in real estate.

View Course »

Asset Allocation

Learn the most important step in structuring an investment portfolio.

View Course »

Add a Comment

*0 / 3000 Character Maximum


text:
DJIA 16,943.81 28.74 0.17%
NASDAQ 4,415.49 19.29 0.44%
S&P 500 1,967.57 2.89 0.15%
market minute promo

Masimo Corp (NASDAQ: MASI)

company name or ticker
Company Photos
(Click to zoom)

The Unappreciated Awesomeness at Masimo

Don't just count the cash, time it.

Bearish MACD for Masimo Corp. - Tale of the Tape

Skepticism About Mindray In America Overlooks Opportunities In China

Masimo Needs Rainbow To Lead To A Pot Of Gold

Are Masimo's Numbers Better Than They Look?

Don't just ask, "How much inventory?" Ask, "What kind?"

Henry Schein Dental Grows in Calif. - Analyst Blog

Masimo Beats on Both Top and Bottom Lines

Just the facts, Fool.

Masimo's Mixed 4Q, Profit Up - Analyst Blog

Masimo Management Discusses Q4 2012 Results - Earnings Call Transcript

Masimo Announces Adoption of Stock Repurchase Program


text:
zillow study

U.S. Home Values to Fall by $1.7 Trillion in 2010

U.S. homes will lose a total of $1.7 trillion in value in 2010, according to real estate site Zillow. The value lost this year will be 63% more than in 2009, and will take the total value lost since June 2006 to more than $9 trillion, Zillow said on its blog.

Survey: Homeowner Confidence Weakened in Second Quarter

A survey by real estate website Zillow.com showed homeowner confidence fell in the second quarter, with one-third saying that home prices had not yet touched bottom. Pessimism about home values in the near-term was worse than in the previous three quarters, Reuters reported. Thirty-three percent thought home values in their area would fall further, while 38% believed prices had already touched bottom.


text:
Follow Daily Icon

Email Address:

Studio GT SP by Studio Guilherme Torres

This house is an original construction of the 40s, it belonged to a great Brazilian artist, Victor Brecheret, the man behind great references in the city of São Paulo, Brazil. After the artist’s death, the property has never been occupied and during decades it served as a foundation of part of his collection and a deposit. The architect Guilherme Torres was immediately attracted by its compact size (130 m²) and the privileged location in one of the most charming streets in the Jardins neighborhood in São Paulo.

The main concept was to update the building, reflecting the contemporary language of the newcomer. The floor plan has not suffered many changes. The only things that has been changed over were the gaps, openings and coatings. All the walls were covered with drywalls and received in some parts white paint and in others, a coating that resembles cement texture. Up the stairs, from the original construction, you can see an art piece of Pinky Wainer, also responsible for the façade neon with the say: ‘land of the free, home of the brave’. The master suite’s toilet is connected to a mezzanine above the kitchen where a bath tub was created. A retractable glass roof can be opened on summer days, to help leaving a mild climate. To soften the rays of sun, a wooden muxarabie, a registered trademark of the architect, was used as a covering following the same pattern of the front door of the house.

The architect chose this property to live and work. With just over 30 years and works in broad expansion, Guilherme Torres is considered one of the great names of Brazilian architecture. Coming from the interior of Paraná state, Brazil, where he established his first office serving many cities of Brazil for 10 years. Guilherme wanted to translate in his own new space, the best way of a cosmopolitan life with a hint of pop. The Studio Guilherme Torres moves from style to style developing architecture and interior projects and also signs a furniture line. The architecture receives timeless traits, a result of Guilherme’s admiration to the Escola Paulista de Arquitetura Modernista, which had its heyday in the 60s and 70s. For interiors the tendency is always to reflect the inquietude of our days. And design is a perfect match between both styles. One can simply look to the house owner to understand the symbiosis between creation and creature. Guilherme is a lover of street art, electronic music and loves to create new tattoos for himself, and it is inside this cauldron of references where he receives his clients and friends.

Studio GT SP, São Paulo, Brazil, by Studio Guilherme Torres, via: Archilovers

Caterpillar House by Feldman Architecture

The design for the Caterpillar House, sited on the softly rolling hills of the Santa Lucia Preserve, sought to accentuate a connection to the land. Having lived in a Cliff May home, the client came to the project with a love of modern ranch houses and looking for an environmentally-conscious response to a beautiful site. The Caterpillar House implements sustainable elements while exploring a contemporary version of the ranch ideals: massing that is low and horizontal, an open plan with a strong connection between indoor and outdoor spaces, and main living areas which center informally on the kitchen.

Connecting literally and figuratively to the site, excavated earth was repurposed for the construction of the walls. These rammed earth walls gently curve in response to the site’s contours and also act as a thermal mass, regulating temperatures from day to night. Capturing rainwater for irrigation, three tanks proudly sit close to the home — a clear sign of the available water resources for landscape. Large south-facing glass doors open the main living area to a large covered contemporary porch and to an outdoor patio with sunshades that expand and contract to allow for a flexible entertaining area that responds to the client’s needs.

The glazing, natural ventilation and operable shading also act as a passive heating and cooling system, cooling the house in the summer and warming the house in winter. Integrated photovoltaic panels enable the house to produce all of its energy requirements without compromising the graceful curve of the low roof against the hill. The Caterpillar House is the first Leed Platinum Custom Home of the Central Coast.

Caterpillar House, Carmel, California, USA, by Feldman Architecture
Photography © Joe Fletcher, via: ArchDaily

House in Aroeira by Aires Mateus

Due to the absence of fences, the hexagonal shape of the plot is not clear and the ground blends with the surrounding pinewoods. The house occupies the maximal area of construction, concentric to the six-sided plot. Disposed round a courtyard to which every space converges, its peculiar form finds a precise boundary in the outline of a canopy. Service areas provide geometry and stability to the main spaces.

House in Aroeira, Portugal, by Aires Mateus
Photography by Fernando Guerra, via: Yatzer

D10 House by Werner Sobek

Located near Ulm in southern Germany, D10 is a single-storey one-family home built in an established residential area. A private driveway provides access to the house. Two parallel shear walls are a distinguishing feature of the building. Generously designed glazing serves to provide a spatial enclosure. Protected by an extensively projecting flat roof a generously sized patio encircling the house serves to unite the indoor space with the outdoor space. Access to the building is also gained via this patio.

The living areas are located on the ground floor, whilst the ancillary rooms are housed in the basement. The building is adjoined on the north side by a double-garage, which can be accessed directly from the basement. A stairway in the living room provides access inside the house.

D10, Stuttgart, Germany, by Werner Sobek, Photography by Zooey Braun

LaFetra Beach House by Pierre Koenig

When the Gantert Residence in the Hollywood Hills hit the market last fall, it was frequently described as the last built house designed by Pierre Koenig, who’s most famous for his Case Study Houses Nos. 21 and 22 (aka the Stahl House). The Gantert has just been bumped–sort of. For years, Serial mid-century modern collector/preservationist Michael LaFetra has talked about his plans to build a Koenig design on a beachfront lot in Malibu that was once occupied by a Pia Zadora-owned spec house. In fact, he bought that land in 1999, before even his first major modern acquisition, CSH No. 21. Shortly after buying 21, he got a call from Koenig, according to a 2005 LA Times article, and they became friends. In 2000 Koenig offered to build LaFetra a beach house. The house has just been finished, but Koenig died in 2004.

According to the old LAT story, “The plan Koenig ultimately came up with called for a house built from a massive steel-and-glass grid, with living space on the first two floors and three bedrooms on the top level. The entire wall facing the ocean would be made of transparent glass. Although LaFetra asked for polished concrete and cork floors in place of the vinyl tile Koenig favored, in most other ways the house would adhere to Koenig’s spare style. It would have an open floor plan and would be finished with Sheetrock and painted steel.”

LaFetra Beach House, Malibu, California, by Pierre Koenig, via: Curbed LA, and Los Angeles Times

Photography: Centro Niemeyer by Danica Ocvirk Kus

Centro Niemeyer is a new cultural complex in Avilés, and is part of an ambitious scheme to redevelop the riverfront. Brazilian architect, Oscar Niemeyer, designed the complex as a gift to the principality.

Centro Niemeyer, Avilés, Spain, by Oscar Niemeyer, Photography © Danica Ocvirk Kus

Xiao-Yen’s House by Craig Steely Architecture

The extensive remodel of the house began by tearing away the substandard remodeling that had taken place over the past 100 years and replacing it with spaces more appropriate to the client’s program. These included a more open plan for work and living, a sod roof, and a glass penthouse with the roof supported by a steel exoskeleton. The steel exoskeleton is part of a seismic upgrade that doesn’t tear the existing building apart. It also supports decks on 2 floors and a pack a bi-facial solar panels.

Xiao-Yen’s House by, Craig Steely Architecture

Clearview Residence by Altius Architecture

Designed for a local artist to enjoy, this residence is located just south of Collingwood, in the heart of the Clearview area. A broad selection of sustainable technologies, including a geothermal lake loop and green house set this project apart from others in the area. The building itself draws inspiration from a number of intimate relationships and views, both through the adjacent woodland, as well as across the nearby pond.

The buildings programme is pretty extensive and with the clients desire to maintain the majority of this over one level the design team were particularly aware of the need to integrate the building into its surroundings in a subtle manor. Consequently this quickly became one of our main focuses and thus gave the scheme real direction, as we sought to arrange each space appropriately within the overall layout so to take advantage of the site and its beauty as well as to make sure that the building was as user friendly and functional as possible.

Clearview Residence, Clearview, Ontario, Canada, by Altius Architecture

Mies van der Rohe Gas Station Conversion by Les Architectes FABG

Heritage status defined the transformation of the modern architect’s only service station into an intergenerational community centre. It was necessary to cover and then restore the building, while allowing for integrating new mechanical equipment and power without affecting the heritage the building. The architectural interventions try to radicalize the inherent qualities of building by accentuating the formal simplicity, the continuity of the roof and transparency of the pavilions.

Ludwig Mies van der Rohe Gas Station, Nun’s Island, Montreal, Quebec, Conversion by Les Architectes FABG

House C:Z by SAMI-arquitectos

This house aims to overlook the various views which can be seen from the highest point of the land. Starting from a set of separate volumes and following the adaptation of the traditional architecture to the terrain, the resulting area between the four volumes was designed as a living space, the walls of which are a continuation of the exterior façades and where only glass separates the exterior from the interior space of the home. Depending on the prevailing wind or the desired view, the house can open out on various landscapes and its connection and permeability with the exterior is total. The solid volume in darkened wood is transformed into four volumes when the large glass panes are opened, allowing the extension of the various platforms of the house. A system of pre-fabrication was used for this building which was conceived in order to achieve an A+ rating in terms of energy efficiency.

House C:Z, São Roque do Pico, Ilha do Pico, Açores, Portugal, by Inês Vieira da Silva, Miguel Vieira, SAMI-arquitectos, Photography © FG + SG architectural photography, Fernando Guerra, via: ArchDaily

Editor's Picks

Konstantin B
…the compensation for all the things you simply did not do, polished to perfection. [more...]

Suggested Reading

The Story of Eames Furniture
Brimming with images and insightful text, this unique book is the benchmark reference on what is arguably the most influential and important furniture brand of our time. [more...]
Buy it here: Amazon

The Guggenheim: Frank Lloyd Wright and the Making of the Modern Museum
First-ever book to explore the process behind one of the greatest modern buildings in America. [more...]
Buy it here: Amazon

MoonFire: The Epic Journey of Apollo 11
A unique tribute to the defining scientific mission of our time, the 40th anniversary of the Apollo 11 Moon landing. [more...]
Buy it here: Amazon

Cars Freedom Style Sex Power Motion Colour Everything

Freedom Style Sex Power Motion Colour Everything. This lavish and beautifully designed book is the gift book for all car enthusiasts and design aficionados. [more...]
Buy it here: Amazon

Design Icons

Fjordfiesta Scandia Senior
by Hans Brattrud

A Norwegian furniture design classic from 1957, Scandia Senior is a comfortable high-back easy chair with a leather head cushion, on a satin swivel base. [more...]

More Books

Case Study Houses
“It’s a huge coffee-table book, which analyses each of the houses in chronological order, with plans, sketches and glorious photographs.” [more...]
Buy it here: Amazon

The Eames Lounge Chair
The book examines the evolution of a design icon and places it in its cultural, historical and social context. [more...]
Buy it here: Amazon

The U.N. Building
Symbol of world humanitarianism, a beacon of unity after the Second World War. More than 50 years on, the 39-story building is regarded as one of the pinnacles of mid-century modernism. [more...]
Buy it here: Amazon

Loblolly House
Including a DVD of the film "A House in the Trees", a real-time documentary of the design, fabrication, and assembly of this amazing house. [more...]
Buy it here: Amazon

The Shape of Things to Come. An up-to-date comprehensive survey on furniture and object design today, showcasing the crème de la crème of designers. [more...]
Buy it here: Amazon

Marcel Wanders
Behind the Ceiling is the first monograph on one of the most influential, prolific and celebrated international designers today. [more...]
Buy it here: Amazon

How to Wrap Five Eggs
A mid-60s classic of Japanese design. Stunningly laid-out paean to traditional Japanese packaging is rife with sumptuous black and white photos of all manner of boxes, wrappers and containers that appear at once homely and sophisticated, ingeniously utilitarian yet fine and rare. [more...]
Buy it here: Amazon


text:
16,000 people still without health insurance due to error with MNsure processing

We also have more stories about:
(click the phrases to see a list)

MINNEAPOLIS — About 16,000 Minnesotans who sought medical assistance through MNsure still aren't covered due to errors in processing their applications, the Department of Human Services said.

The Star Tribune reported (http://strib.mn/1lBPqXo ) there were problems with the affected customers' applications, but that letters were never sent to notify them of those problems and requesting information, such as verification of income, citizenship, or tribal membership.

"It was a serious error on our part of not being more on top of understanding that process, and having the oversight in place," said DHS Deputy Commissioner Chuck Johnson.

DHS Commissioner Lucinda Jesson told at county human services officials of the problem in an email Wednesday. Letters to Minnesotans still without insurance are expected to go out by mid-July, and the state will work with insurers to guarantee coverage back to the date of a customer's application.

Jesson also asked county workers to "redouble their efforts, as soon as possible" to contact Minnesotans in need.

More than 149,000 low-income Minnesotans have used MNsure to apply for medical assistance.

The lack of letters sent was a known issue in January, but late last week that problem was not resolved and many people still did not know that their applications were incomplete.

The process was supposed to be fully automated, but it still relies on manual workarounds.

Consultants from Deloitte Consulting LLP recently told the board that governs Minnesota's health insurance exchange that the system's reliance on manual workarounds, and a lack of oversight and project management, were key ongoing issues.

MNsure officials decided last month to work on improving the system for this fall's open enrollment period before deciding whether it should be saved or scrapped altogether. An upgrade to the system this month is expected to fully automate the process.

Information from: Star Tribune, http://www.startribune.com

All content copyright ©2014 Daily Journal, a division of Home News Enterprises unless otherwise noted.
All rights reserved. Click here to read our privacy policy.


text:
Comment: I understand

(See in situ)

I understand

what Rand's trying to say here, but when he used the word 'debate', the hackles on my neck stood up!! DEBATE? What part of 'shall not be infringed' don't some of the idiots in Washington get???? No 'debate' should be involved!!

Can't they feel the tension in the air? Are they that clueless? Don't they understand that MILLIONS of Americans have made this issue their 'line in the sand'...and will NOT register guns NOR relinquish guns? Don't they get that millions of Americans are FED UP with them wiping their butt all over the Constitution?

I don't want to see it happen, but I am truly concerned that if this nonsense continues, civil war/revolution will occur...

O.P.O.G.G. - Fighting the attempted devolution of the rEVOLution
Ron Paul 2012...and beyond


text:
Bumble bee

Bee stings are just one of summer's possible health emergencies. (Reuters Photo / May 23, 2012)

Ah, summer. A time for all sorts of fun activities — hikes, cookouts, pool days, bike rides and more. And ow, summer. A time for all kinds of seasonal injuries and health emergencies. such as burns from the grill, tick bites, heat stroke and swimmers ear.

Be prepared with our Summer Survival Guide — we identify nine common summer ailments, explain what they look like and detail how to treat them. Our focus is on how to respond, but doctors note that the best way to enjoy your summer is by practicing prevention: wear sunscreen and bug spray, cover up when hiking in the woods and drink lots of water on hot days.

For those with pets, we've included information on what to do when your four-legged friend suffers similar injuries or problems.

Keep this guide handy — and get out there and enjoy the season.

View/Submit Comments for this story

Bee stings

What it looks like: A small red mark will appear, and there may be a stinger visible. You'll feel a sharp sting, but generally, you'll know you've been stung if you see the bee.

What to do: Use tweezers to scrape or pull the stinger out of the skin, says Dr. Brian J. Browne, chair of Emergency Medicine at the University of Maryland School of Medicine and chief of the Emergency Department at the University of Maryland Medical Center. He then advises mixing a meat tenderizer rub with a little water to form a paste and applying it to the sting — a trick of the trade that he has found to be very effective on stings and ant bites. If you start to have an allergic reaction and experience hives or shortness of breath, go to the emergency room or contact your physician.

What not to do: Bees are often found together near flowers or food. If you get stung, try to remain calm so as not to aggravate any other nearby stingers. Definitely don't try to destroy a hive.

What it looks like: Burns of all kinds are seen in the summer — first degree sunburns, as well as second and third degree burns caused by the sun, grills, fireworks or boat motors. First-degree burns cause the skin to turn red. They can also make skin hot to the touch. Second and third degree burns will produce blisters and could seriously damage skin.

What to do: Many burns can be treated at home. Browne advises immediately cooling the burn by running the affected area under tap water. He likened skin burns to cooking meat — it continues to cook even after it's removed from the heat — so you'll want to be sure to cool the area immediately by immersing it in water or allowing water to pour over it. If the burn looks serious, consider seeing a doctor. Burns that might require a second look are ones that cover joints (like wrists, elbows or knees) or that are on hands, face or feet, Browne says. A doctor should see any burn that covers a significant area of skin, or one that appears to be infected. For first degree sunburns, apply an aloe lotion or gel to soothe the pain. For burns that blister, apply an over-the-counter burn cream and wrap the area with a bandage to prevent infection, Browne says.

What not to do: Avoid popping a blistered burn, as it leaves the area open to infection, Browne says. If it does pop, he advises carefully removing torn skin, applying burn cream and covering the area with a bandage.

What it looks like: A person who is dehydrated will likely be complaining of thirst, headache, shortness of breath and overall weakness, says Dr. Michael Zimring, director of travel medicine at Mercy Medical Center.

What to do: Drink water. If symptoms are severe, consider a trip to the emergency room for an IV.

What not to do: Zimring cautions against drinking just any liquid to rehydrate. Caffeine in sodas and tea, as well as alcohol in beer or wine, can actually act as dehydrating agents and add to the problem.

Heat Stroke

What it looks like: Heat stroke victims will be fatigued and weak and will also feel confused or be unconscious, Zimring says. The main difference between the less-serious heat exhaustion and heat stroke is the change in mental status — a heat exhaustion victim will feel weak but will have a normal mental status and be awake and alert, Zimring says.

What to do: If the victim is unconscious, Zimring advises that you call 911 or go straight to an emergency room. He recommends that you immediately start cooling down the body by going to a cool area indoors or in the shade and using a mister or spray bottle of water. Ice packs should be applied to the inner groin and underarms.

What not to do: Don't submerge the body in cold water — the bath will constrict blood vessels and only allow the surface of the body to get cold, Zimring says.

Poison Ivy

What it looks like: Poison ivy is a three-leafed plant that, when it comes into contact with skin, causes redness, itching, swelling and blisters. Often the rash creates lines or strands on the skin from they way it brushed against the body.

What to do: If you know you came into contact with the plant, immediately wash the affected area with soap and water, Zimring says. If you catch it in the first 10 minutes, you may avoid getting poison ivy. If you don't catch it in time and the rash appears, he recommends two things: first, if the area infected is small, apply an over-the-counter anti-itch cream, like cortisone. Second, if a widespread or sensitive area is infected, make an appointment to see your physician — a steroid injection or pill might be prescribed. Zimring noted that any clothes or animals that come into contact with poison ivy should be washed immediately. Clothes can carry traces of the plant for months, as can household pets.

What not to do: Don't scratch at the rash — picking at it can open wounds and lead to infection.

Scrapes and abrasions

What it looks like: Scrapes come in many forms, from deep wounds to skinned knees.

What to do: The first step is cleaning the wound and assessing the severity, Browne says. Use soap and water to clear the area of dirt and debris. If the wound is a deep separated laceration that needs to be pushed closed, or if the bleeding won't stop, Browne advises seeing a doctor. If the wound seems superficial, a good cleaning and a bandage should do the trick. Browne says not to abide be the "it needs air to heal" theory; instead, keep it covered to prevent infection. He recommends cleaning the area and putting on a new bandage at least once a day.

What not to do: Don't overdo it with the peroxide. Browne says peroxide works well for cleaning wounds, but it's not good to pour into a deep cut, or for soaking.

Anaphylactic Shock

What it looks like: Anaphylactic shock is an allergic reaction that can be the result of stings, bites, ingesting an allergen or more. Zimring says symptoms include shortness of breath or trouble breathing, abdominal pain, itching and hives.

What to do: If symptoms include shortness of breath, Zimring suggests calling 911 or heading to the ER. If hives appear first try taking an over-the-counter anti-allergy medicine, like Benadryl. If you're prone to allergic reactions and carry an Epipen, use it.

What not to do: Don't ignore it — severe allergic reactions can be fatal.

Swimmers Ear

What it looks like: Browne says swimmers ear is an infection in the outer ear canal. Symptoms can include irritation, mild pain in the ear and slight dripping of clear liquid.

What to do: If you're certain it's swimmers ear, Browne says a drop of vinegar has been known to be an excellent at-home cure. But he cautions that the vinegar could irritate other ear infections, so it's worth being checked out by a professional. Prescription ear drops may be advised.

What not to do: Don't hop back in the pool, as it can irritate the infection more.

Tick bite

What it looks like: A tick is a small insect that fastens itself onto humans or animals and feeds on their blood. Typically, there will be a small red area that looks like a bite with the tick's body visible on the skin.

What to do: Zimring says it's important to immediately remove the tick and clean the area. Use tweezers, and grasp as close to the head as possible without squeezing the bloated tick body. Clean the area with rubbing alcohol or soapy water. If the tick bite is accompanied by flu-like symptoms (fever, chills, muscle aches, headache), or if there is a reddish rash surrounding the bite, it's important to see a doctor, as it could be a sign of a tick-borne infection, like lyme disease, Zimring says. If the tick has been in your skin for more than 24 hours, or if you're unsure how long it has been there, remove the tick and call your physician, as a preventative early dose of antibiotic might be recommended.

What not to do: Don't cover the tick with nail polish to try to suffocate it. It is important to get it out of the body.

911 for your cat or dog

Summer sickness isn't limited to humans — watch for these common hot weather pet problems.

Paw burns or cuts

What it looks like: Your pet will likely be limping or avoiding walking on the affected paw, says Kim Hammond, owner and director of Falls Road Animal Hospital. The paw might be red, and the pad might be cracked, he said.

What to do: If the pad is torn, raw or bleeding, Hammond recommends you take your pet to its vet for a checkup, as this can lead to infection. Pad burns aren't always serious, but they're difficult to treat, as bandages typically need to be applied, and animals can't easily be told not to lick or mess with the affected area.

What not to do: Don't ignore limping or tenderness to your pet's limbs. The symptoms are general and could point to a more serious condition, like a torn ligament.

Heat exhaustion or dehydration

What it looks like: Your pet will look lethargic, Hammond says. A dog will likely be sitting down with its tongue hanging out, and the end of the tongue might be starting to swell, he says. Severe symptoms include collapsing or the mucus membranes turning bright red.

What to do: Get your pet into a cool space with wind blowing on it. Hammond recommends getting a dog inside in the air conditioning, providing it with water and having a fan blow air on it. If the dog collapses or appears to be having trouble breathing, take it to a vet immediately.

What not to do: Avoid taking short-snouted dogs on walks when it's too hot or humid outside.

Giardia or Parasite

What it looks like: Your pet will be vomiting or will have diarrhea, Hammond says.

What to do: Hammond suggests taking your pet to see a vet or dropping off a stool sample with the vet. Animals can get parasites from drinking creek water, a common activity in the summer.

What not to do: Don't write it off as a common sickness — some parasites can be passed from dogs to humans, so you might be putting the people in your home at risk.


text:
Edward Moore

A collection of news and information related to Edward Moore published by this site and its partners.

Top Edward Moore Articles see all

Displaying items 0-0
No articles were found for this topic.


text:
Ben Stein

A collection of news and information related to Ben Stein published by this site and its partners.

Top Ben Stein Articles

Displaying items 27-27
No articles were found for this topic.


text:
Michael Badalucco

A collection of news and information related to Michael Badalucco published by this site and its partners.

Top Michael Badalucco Articles see all

Displaying items 1-3
  • SAG Awards: We predict Sunday's big TV winners

    SAG loves to boast about the size of its voting membership. (Nearly 100,000 final ballots served!) Next year, though, when it randomly picks 2,100 members to choose nominees on the television side, it might want to somehow find a few...
  • Drama supporting actors prove Emmy winners not always TV reruns

    One of our top Emmy Awards gurus -- forums moderator Chris "Boomer" Beachum -- deftly disproves the notion that the Emmys anoint the same winners year after year. Although the likes of Don Knotts ("The Andy Griffith Show") and John Larroquette ("Night...

    'The Practice: The Final Season'

    While executive producer David E. Kelley was winding down this ABC series, he also was using it to gear up for his subsequent show, "Boston Legal," to the degree that James Spader (now enjoying a huge TV hit with "The Blacklist") and William Shatner...


text: A collection of news and information related to Bahrain published by this site and its partners.


text:
Helen Shiller

A collection of news and information related to Helen Shiller published by this site and its partners.

Top Helen Shiller Articles see all

Displaying items 1-5
  • Ex-Ald. Mell starts lobbying firm with help of daughter Patti Blagojevich

    Ex-Ald. Mell starts lobbying firm with help of daughter Patti Blagojevich
    Former Chicago Ald. Dick Mell, one of the most gregarious political creatures ever to grace City Hall, is back in the game with a new lobbying firm he founded with the help of daughter Patti Blagojevich.
  • Tight City Council races: Veteran aldermen head for runoffs

    UPDATED at 9:43 p.m. Posted by Hal Dardick and John Byrne at 7:10 p.m.; check back for updates on results. City Council incumbents in several wards were beating back challenges tonight but at least two longtime aldermen appeared headed for...

    Emanuel allies back four more in aldermanic runoffs

    Posted by Hal Dardick and Kristen Mack at 4:55 p.m. A political fund aligned with Mayor-elect Rahm Emanuel on Wednesday endorsed four more candidates in next month’s City Council runoff elections, including contenders in three races the incoming...

    Alderman runoff about development, political approach

    Tomorrow is judgment day for Michele Smith and Tim Egan, the two aldermanic wannabes facing off in Tuesday's runoff election. The Tribune has a briefing for those who want an update: For decades, many of the city's North Side neighborhoods embraced...

    Aldermanic races in Lincoln Park, Uptown about development, political approach

    Posted by Erika Slife at 4:15 p.m. Editor's note: this is a longer version of a story that appears in Saturday's print edition. For decades, many of the city’s North Side neighborhoods embraced political independence, electing lakefront liberals who...


text:
Hampton Roads Transit

A collection of news and information related to Hampton Roads Transit published by this site and its partners.

Top Hampton Roads Transit Articles

Displaying items 39-39
No articles were found for this topic.