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Letters to the Editor

Readers write about architecture influencing mathematical breakthroughs, goods made in China, and immigration policies.

Architecture influencing breakthroughs in math

Thanks for the July 30 article, "Chasing down zeros at math camp." I was amazed at the disconnect between the esoteric discipline practiced by members of the American Institute of Math and the architecture of the new headquarters they are building for themselves. What patterns of thought brought them to the crenelated Spanish castle design that is pictured? Is there some vague connection between the origins of mathematics in Mesopotamia and the later occupation of Spain by Muslim conquerors?

There is a conviction among many architects these days that buildings ought to somehow express in their form and detail the activities they are intended to house. I hope when the building is completed, we can hear from the mathematicians whether their ability to break through math barriers will be in any way shaped by the architecture of the building.

John Stopfel
Rockport, Mass.

Issues with products from China

As someone who has learned to love creating their own items from scratch, whether it be clothing, a meal, or a decorative accessory, the Aug. 7 book review, "Escape from 'Made in China,' " gave me a feeling that we are assaulted by the market of items not made locally. I am dedicated to not shopping where the majority of stock is "Made in China," and it brings a puzzled look to those with whom I share my decision.

Even my daughter could not see what seemed obvious to me when she announced that she had saved enough money to buy a hand-held electronic pet. I explained that her independent decision to buy this toy was dictated by the manufacturer who was appealing to the spending power of a 10-year-old. Nonetheless, she purchased the digital pet and has played with it passionately ever since.

I would not like to try the experiment written about in "A Year Without 'Made in China:' One Family's True Adventure in the Global Economy," but I know it is important for us all to be aware and alert to this far-reaching flood of consumer goods that is affecting our everyday lives.

Laurel Bracey
Las Cruces, N.M.

For every producer of tainted Chinese food and substandard children's toys, there is a corporation here in America importing these goods at huge profits. Who are these companies and why have they not been held accountable? Shouldn't the companies making the most money from this be responsible for their own lack of oversight on the products they sell?

Barbara Johnson
Sequim, Wash.

Problems with immigration

Having read the Aug. 3 article, "In Central America, child migrants now face perils alone," I am compelled to respond. The primary attraction that has sparked the illegal migration northward for the children mentioned in the article is the lure of jobs and money and an easy entry into the US, not the chance to be reunited with family.

This type of migration is not new; this dilemma has been played out for over 100 years now. Politicians have long traditionally downplayed and refused to enforce our laws on immigration, knowing full well that they could eventually exploit these illegal immigrants, particularly their children. This is without doubt the most reprehensible posture of all. The fact is, this lax law enforcement has contributed to the creation of a huge illegal labor pool in this country, a type of indentured servitude if you will. This is outrageous, especially when you consider it was done intentionally.

Larry Butler
Delta, Colo.

The Monitor welcomes your letters and opinion articles. Because of the volume of mail we receive, we can neither acknowledge nor return unpublished submissions. All submissions are subject to editing. Letters must be signed and include your mailing address and telephone number. Any letter accepted may appear in print or on our website, www.csmonitor.com.

Mail letters to Readers Write and opinion articles to Opinion Page, One Norway St., Boston, MA 02115, or fax to (617) 450-2317, or e-mail to OpEd.

We want to hear, did we miss an angle we should have covered? Should we come back to this topic? Or just give us a rating for this story. We want to hear from you.


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World US foreign aid cuts: what could impact be?

A leaked State Department budget document lays out proposals for a 30.8 percent cut in development aid and plans to sharply cut back USAID.

Abbas Dulle/AP

When President Donald Trump’s budget director, Mick Mulvaney, presented the outlines of the new US administration’s first budget last month, he made no bones about its purpose.

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Insight and foresight from the global frontlines

World Security Watch Backchannels

April 28, 2017

Photos of the day 04/28

Sergei Bobkov paints Siberian cedar nut oil onto a life-size sculpture of Pallas's Cat, also known in Russia as Manul Cat, which he made from Siberian cedar wood shavings using more than 700 thousand pieces over four years, in the village of Kozhany, southwest of the Siberian city of Krasnoyarsk, Russia on Friday.

More Backchannels


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Hawks 'outplayed,' shut out by Bruins' Thomas

Hawks 'outplayed,' shut out by Bruins' Thomas

Tuesday, March 29, 2011
Posted: 9:03 p.m. Updated: 11:12 p.m.

By Tracey Myers

BOSTON The Chicago Blackhawks were coming off one of their most critical victories on Monday night when they faced the same situation on Tuesday.

They needed points, were playing a gritty, defensive-minded team and they needed to rinse and repeat that effort in Detroit.

They couldnt.

Tim Thomas stopped all 32 shots he saw for his ninth shutout of the season, as the Chicago Blackhawks fell 3-0 to the Boston Bruins on Tuesday night.

The Blackhawks held onto eighth place in the Western Conference, but that was little consolation to the opportunity lost to jump past the idle Anaheim Ducks and into seventh. The Blackhawks looked like they were starting to feel the effects of Monday nights overtime victory in Detroit halfway through Tuesday nights contest. But coach Joel Quenneville wasnt buying it.

(The Bruins) were a hard-working team tonight. The first 10 minutes we were on our heels, we got back into it, but we didnt do much after they scored first, he said. We were looking for more tonight. You play good hockey teams on back to back nights, getting two is OK, but you cant be happy with just that.

Corey Crawford stopped 31 of 34 for the loss, including 12 in the first when the Bruins were pushing and the Blackhawks mustered just five shots. Zdeno Chara put the Bruins up 1-0 with 12:02 left in the second period, and the Blackhawks could manage little past that point.
CSNNE.com: Thornton gash requires about 40 stitches, Blackhawks chirping

They out shot us pretty good in the first and we didnt really get rolling, if at all, until later in the game, defenseman Brian Campbell said. They got a couple of deflected pucks go in on Crow and thats tough for him. They outplayed us.

Johnny Boychuk and Nathan Horton also scored for the Bruins, who kept the defensive pressure up throughout the game. Thomas allowed few rebounds, and those he did allow the Blackhawks were unable to capitalize upon.

Theyve got a big defense and thats part of their game. They love to box you out, Quenneville said. There were some good opportunities around the net but we werent hungry enough. (Thomas) saw too many pucks.

Crawford said the Bruins worked for their chances and crashed the net hard. They did what they wanted to do.

The Blackhawks wont play again until Friday when they face Columbus. Where theyll rank in the Western Conference by then, who knows.

Were not just trying to play our best hockey but were trying to get points and thats all that matters, Duncan Keith said. There are no excuses (on Tuesday), no tired legs, nothing. Its all battle and heart and thats what it comes down to.

Injury updates

Patrick Sharp (left knee) is still progressing well, Quenneville said, and the forward could start skating when the Blackhawks get back to town.

Hell be skating soon, but how soon I dont know, he said. I dont think hell be on ice the next couple of days, but we could see him in not too long.

Asked if Sharp could be back for the Blackhawks April 8 game in Detroit, Quenneville said, wed love to have that situation. Whether it happens or not is a question mark. Were optimistic. But I dont think it would be before (that).

Thornton injured

Shawn Thornton said the skate he took near his eye that he needed 40 stitches to close was accidental. But he wasnt too happy with chirping he allegedly heard from the Chicago Blackhawks bench as he skated off.

Thornton skated off under his own power after taking Fernando Pisanis skate near his eye as he fell behind the net in the Bruins 3-0 victory over the Blackhawks. But Thornton said something was said by the Blackhawks that left him angry.

There was some stuff said that Im not happy about, he told Boston media. Im going to find out who it was and Ill deal with it in my own way.

I dont know if its right when someones face is half across the other side of their face, continued Thornton. But its a tough game and people have to live with their actions. If you guys even find out who it is dont be afraid to send me a Christmas card.

John Scott was the Blackhawks lone healthy scratch on Tuesday.

The Blackhawks headed home after Tuesdays game. Theyll fly to Columbus on Thursday.

Tracey Myers is CSNChicago.com's Blackhawks Insider. Follow Tracey on Twitter @TramyersCSN for up-to-the-minute Hawks information.

After trading Scott Darling, can the Blackhawks find another reliable backup goalie?

After trading Scott Darling, can the Blackhawks find another reliable backup goalie?

What we all expected to happen did happen on Friday night when the Blackhawks traded Scott Darling to the Carolina Hurricanes.

One way or another, be it via trade or just going to unrestricted free agency on July 1, Darling was headed elsewhere. He’s earned the opportunity to be a No. 1 goaltender, it wasn’t going to happen here, and now he’ll get that chance.

But this isn’t about where Darling’s career takes him from this point. This is about the Blackhawks and where they go from here. They’ve been in the enviable position of having some stellar backup goaltenders the past few seasons, from Ray Emery to Antti Raanta to Darling. So as this offseason continues, finding another one becomes top priority.

A few days ago Pat Boyle and I discussed a few topics on the HawksTalk Podcast, including what we considered to be on general manager Stan Bowman’s to-do list this summer. Getting a reliable backup goaltender has to be on there because the Blackhawks have shown over the past few seasons that having that great 1-2 punch in net has proven very successful.

Let’s go back to the 2013 offseason. In the summer of 2013 the Blackhawks signed two goaltenders. One was Nikolai Khabibulin, the other Raanta. We all remember how that went. Khabibulin, another former Blackhawks player brought in on the hopes that he had something left, didn’t. He started four games — two of which Corey Crawford came in and finished — suffered an injury in mid November and never played another game for the Blackhawks. Then on Dec. 8, Crawford, playing in his 27th game of the Blackhawks’ first 32 games of that season, got hurt. Enter Raanta, who went on a tear through December, going 8-1-3. That season highlights the need for reliable depth at that position more than any in recent memory.

You’re familiar with the other examples, too. Emery was outstanding when he had to be in the lockout-shortened 2013 regular season — please see that 45-stop outing vs. Calgary — and he and Crawford earned the William M. Jennings Trophy that year. Darling showed how dependable he could be several times the past few seasons, from his work in the 2015 first-round series against the Nashville Predators to his record (6-3-1) when Crawford was out with appendicitis through the first three weeks of last December.

That depth at goaltending has been especially critical the past two seasons. How many “goalie wins” did the Blackhawks have through the 2015-16 season, when they struggled to get consistent line combinations past their second one? How many did they have at the start of this past season before they did get that four-line rotation in February?

Crawford has played between 55 and 59 games in each full regular season dating back to 2010-11. Injuries happen. Slumps happen. Being overworked happens. Having a backup on which you can rely is something every team would love to have and something the Blackhawks have had recently, and they’ve benefitted from it.

It’s easy for us to sit here and say the Blackhawks need to do this. Actually finding that guy is an entirely different matter. But the Blackhawks have done it well lately, and despite the team’s quick exit this spring, there are still plenty of reasons for a would-be backup goaltender to come to Chicago.

Darling was the latest to embrace the backup goaltending role in his time here. His moving on was inevitable. Now the Blackhawks need to find the next guy who can keep their 1-2 punch in net going.

Why Scott Darling is a perfect fit for Hurricanes

Why Scott Darling is a perfect fit for Hurricanes

Chicago will always be home for Scott Darling. Literally.

He's a Lemont native who grew up rooting for the Blackhawks, signed with the franchise in 2014 and reignited his career by winning over the backup job, and enjoyed the highest level of success by becoming the first local kid to win a Stanley Cup in Chicago.

But as he said at the end of the season, Darling has paid his dues as a backup in the NHL and is ready for the next step of being a No. 1 goaltender.

The Blackhawks gave him that opportunity Friday, shipping his negotiating rights to the Carolina Hurricanes for a third-round pick in 2017.

And, assuming a long-term extension gets done, the fit couldn't be better for both Darling and Carolina.

The Hurricanes play such a structured game under Bill Peters, who is arguably the most underrated coach in the league. He served as the head coach for the Blackhawks' AHL affiliate Rockford IceHogs for three seasons from 2008-11, and was also part of Mike Babcock's coaching staff in Detroit for three years after that. He comes from a solid coaching branch.

Peters preaches puck possession and team defense, and both categories have excelled during his tenure in Carolina.

Why is this good news for Darling? Because both of those areas have been vital in all three of the Blackhawks' championship runs this decade, meaning there won't be much of an adjustment schematically.

Over the last three seasons combined, the Hurricanes have been the sixth-best possession team in the league (controlling 51.7 percent of the even-strength shot attempts), have allowed the second-fewest shots on goal per game (27.7) and own the second-ranked penalty kill unit (84.4 percent success rate).

Defense and dictating the pace of play has never been a problem for the Hurricanes; it's the goaltending that's been a sore thumb for a long time, and they've finally addressed it.

In the last three seasons, Carolina has finished 28th, 29th and 29th in even-strength team save percentage at 90.9 (2015), 91.5 (2016) and 91.2 (2017). This past regular season, only two goaltenders — Craig Anderson (94.0) and Vezina Trophy-favorite Sergei Bobrovsky (93.9) — who appeared in at least 30 games had a better 5-on-5 save percentage than Darling, who recorded a 93.7 percentage.

He is a significant upgrade from Eddie Lack ($2.75 million cap hit) and Cam Ward ($3.3 million), both of whom are under contract through 2017-18. (That's a situation Carolina GM Ron Francis will have to sort out as the expansion draft approaches, but there's no doubt Darling will head into training camp as the clear-cut starter).

There's reason to be excited about the Hurricanes' long-term vision and growth on the back end, too. They were the third-youngest team last year, and their blue line group is led by 25-year-old All-Star Justin Faulk and 20-year-old Noah Hanifin, the club's No. 5 overall draft pick in 2015.

The Hurricanes are right there. They're ready to take off after missing out on the postseason for eight consecutive years, in large part because they haven't gotten the goaltending needed to consistently win games.

With the addition of Darling, they hope to have finally found that missing piece to the puzzle.


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Remembering the hot mobile gear of five years ago

IDG News Service | Feb 17, 2016

The mobile phone industry's big annual show is about to begin in Barcelona. Tech moves fast, just take a look at what was hot 5 years ago.

The biggest mobile show is taking place in Barcelona

We’ve come a long way in five years.

Remember when Android phones looked like this?

This was Samsung’s brand-spanking new 4G phone

It has a 4.3-inch screen and 8-megapixel camera

Remember proprietary chargers?

The European Commission unveiled the first common charger based on Micro USB

It’s now standard around the world

Remember when the iPhone was only available on AT&T?

In February 2011, Verizon started selling it for the first time.

It gave US iPhone owners operator choice for the first time

Remember the Xoom tablet?

It created a lot of buzz as an iPad competitor

But ultimately never made much of a dent.

Remember the PlayStation Portable?

Sony unveiled its successor, the PlayStation Vita.

It’s sold more than 12 million units worldwide, but is under threat from smartphones

Remember Symbian and Meego?

Nokia decided it would adopt Windows Phone as its primary smartphone OS

The company had been struggling to compete with Apple and Android.

Two years later, with its market share falling, Nokia would be acquired by Microsoft

Two years after that, Microsoft would write-off most of the value of the acquisition as a failure.

Remember when a smartwatch looked like this?

This Casio G-Shock synced with a phone

So you could stop the phone ringing with a tap


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Catering to the Community

It was 1968 when Don Lamberti purchased a Boone, Iowa service station and converted it into a convenience store, launching what would eventually grow into the thriving chain known as Casey’s General Stores. By the end of its first decade, Casey’s had more than 100 locations, plus its own warehouse. To meet its growing business needs, the company opened a distribution center in Urbandale, Iowa in 1982, and a year later Casey’s became a public company. Soon busy customers were able to buy popular food items, including doughnuts and pizza, in each store.

Headquartered in Ankeny, Iowa, Casey’s was recognized as Chain of the Year in 1993, and within three years, the company had opened its 1,000th store at a site in Altoona, Iowa. That was the same year that Casey’s annual sales exceeded $1 billion for the first time.

“The convenience store industry is quite a bit different than in 1993,” said William Walljasper, senior vice president and CFO. “I would say the biggest trend is the explosion in the prepared foods category. More and more convenience stores are co-branding with QSRs or introducing proprietary foodservice programs.”

Casey’s proprietary foodservice program is the envy of many retailers. The menu is extensive, ranging from combo meals and burgers to breakfast items and made-from-scratch pizzas. The popular pizza program is enhanced by Casey’s own homemade pizza dough, and the pizza menu includes everything from traditional pepperoni to trendy combinations, such as the bacon-cheeseburger and the taco pizza. In 2010, the company will expand its coffee and fountain selections, add new menu items and continue to roll out a made-to-order sandwich program.

Advances in Technology
Another important change has been the rapid development of new technology to operate the business and provide faster customer service. After adopting pay-at-the-pump technology, Casey’s added a complete point-of-sale system. “This has changed how we look at shelf space,” Walljasper said. “It gives us a better understanding of the movement of products and helps us regionalize the product mix.”

Casey’s has grown through acquisitions and today has 1,478 convenience stores in nine Midwestern states: Indiana, Iowa, South Dakota, Nebraska, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Wisconsin and Illinois. With a fiscal year that runs from April through March, Casey’s plans to increase the total number of stores by 4% for 2010. By the end of the first quarter, the company had opened five new stores and replaced an additional five.

Last year, Casey’s added 16 newly constructed stores and 16 acquired locations to its portfolio. Since about 60% of the chain’s stores are located in cities with populations of less than 5,000 people, Casey’s is the “go to” retailer in many areas. In addition, Casey’s operates a central warehouse and distribution center through which it supplies grocery and general merchandise items to its stores.

To serve the community and win new customers, Casey’s offers non-profit organizations the opportunity to purchase its pizza and doughnut fundraising cards, which are sold for double the price, and the non-profit keeps all of the profit. People who purchase the cards get generous discounts on some of Casey’s top foodservice products.

Speak Your Mind


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Orioles pregame: Early notes and starting lineups from Camden Yards

The Baltimore Sun

Following last night's thrilling 10-6 win over the Yankees at Camden Yards, the Orioles can gain sole possesion of first place in the AL East with a victory over New York tonight.

Orioles rookie left-handed Wei-Yin Chen can win his 13th game of the season, most since Erik Bedard won 13 in 2007. With his next win, Chen will also tie Hong-Chih Kuo for second-most career victories by a Tawainese-born pitcher in major league history.

Here's what's going on around the Orioles' clubhouse:

-- Right-hander Chris Tillman, who took four days off after coming out of Sunday's game with a dead right arm, threw long toss today up to 120 feet and then back to shorter distances. He could throw off a mound Saturday or Sunday. "I feel good now," Tillman said. "It's kind of in their hands now. I felt good today."

-- Former Orioles right-hander Jason Berken, who was designated for assignment Monday in order to add left-handed reliever Zach Phillips to the 40-man roster, was claimed off waivers by the Chicago Cubs.

-- Left-handed reliever Troy Patton (sprained right ankle) threw from both a flat mound and a half mound Friday and is slated to throw from a full mound Sunday. The Orioles will have a better idea of a timetable for his return after then.

-- Orioles designated hitter Jim Thome (herniated disk) took 40 dry swings in Sarasota. Showalter is optimistic that Thome can still help the team, but there's no estimate on a possible return.

-- Orioles right-hander Miguel Gonzalez is slated to start Tuesday’s series opener against the Rays. Monday’s off day allows Gonzalez to work on five days rest.

-- Orioles first-round pick Kevin Gausman, out of LSU, will make his Double-A debut for Bowie in Game 3 of the opening round of the Eastern Lague playoffs. He should be limited to three innings.

-- The Orioles also officially recalled right-handed Jake Arrieta. He will be used as a reliever for now, but Showalter said he's one of eight canidates to earn starts.

Here are tonight's starting lineups:

Nick Markakis RF

J.J. Hardy SS

Nate McLouth LF

Adam Jones CF

Matt Wieters C

Mark Reynolds 1B

Chris Davis DH

Manny Machado 3B

Robert Andino 2B

Wei-Yin Chen LHP

Derek Jeter, SS

Nick Swisher, RF

Robinson Cano, 2B

Alex Rodriguez, DH

Russell Martin, C

Curtis Granderson, CF

Andruw Jones, LF

Steve Pearce, 1B

Casey McGehee, 3B

Phil Hughes RHP

Copyright © 2017, CT Now


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Helping the children

Momoko Hasselbring, 9, of Evanston decorates a toy top with colored markers for the children at the Hadley School for the Blind in Winnetka as part of the "Day of Service", a national effort to commemorate the birthday of slain civil rights leader Martin Luther King.
Tribune photo by David Trotman-Wilkins
Copyright © 2017, CT Now


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Cobalt Telephone Technologies Ltd

Payment Solutions

In today’s mobile, digital world, companies have to find a way to support their customers’ desire for 24x7x365 transactions using the payment channels they prefer. At the same time, to survive, organisations have to focus more than ever on reducing costs. Fortunately, there are effective solutions that deliver both.

Cobalt’s product portfolio offers secure self-service environments, through which payments can be made 24×7 by credit or debit card.  Customers choose whether to pay by web, IVR, mobile or smartphone app. Each of our channels is designed to directly integrate with the core income management system already in use by the business or local authority.

With our flexible payment solutions, the scope is virtually limitless: mobile payments for parking, taxis, and other transport services; an alternative to cash in the retail environment; web or fixed phone payments at home for paying bills or other Council services.  All are paid securely, through our highly tested systems.

Looking for…

RingGo? Well, you've found the company behind it. RingGo users should visit myRingGo


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Dr. Rudy Tanzi featured on The Dana Foundation Website

Posted: Sep. 22, 2011

Dr. Rudolph Tanzi, a Cure Alzheimer's Fund Research Consortium member, was recenty profiled on The Dana Foundation's website. Here's an excerpt from the piece:

Dr. Tanzi has a range of experience with live performance, too. “I played in bands all through high school, college, and graduate school to make extra money; even when I was working with Jim Gusella between ’80 and ’83. I was playing in a band full-time, probably getting three hours of sleep, and I like to tell the story about how we found the first twelve variants in the human genome back then.”

Learn more about Rudy here.


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Tuesday, 19 June 2012

The Girl You Left Behind

It’s the winter of 1916 and the small French town of St Péronne is occupied by the Germans. With their husbands away at war, sisters Sophie and Hélène are running the family hotel, Le Coq Rouge, the best they can, considering they have no guests, barely any furniture and meagre rations of food and drink. So when the new Kommandant requests that she prepares the evening meals for his men, Sophie has little choice but to say yes. She must be careful, for he seems much more intelligent than his predecessor yet she is bold enough not to hide her prized possession; a painting by her husband, Édouard. It’s a portrait of Sophie from when she was at her happiest and the Kommandant is rather taken with it…if not maybe her as well.

In the present day, the portrait hangs in The Glass House, a modern architectural marvel built by Liv’s late husband. She lives there alone, treasuring the building as a memorial of him and the painting as a memory of their time together. He had always thought the woman in the portrait reminded him of her. But when the painting becomes the subject of a restitution case, Liv is forced to reconsider its heritage. It is rightfully hers, so what if it was stolen nearly 100 years ago? She must make the choice to give the painting up or risk losing everything in a legal fight that she just can’t afford.

From the very first page, I was pulled into Sophie’s world. She is dreaming about food, rich and delicious, yet when she wakes up, it is obvious her situation is quite the opposite. Whilst the story of occupied France is a struggle, there are some humorous and touching moments, such as the buried clock that starts to chime and the pantomime that ensues to try to keep it hidden from the Germans. Sophie’s an incredibly strong character in a hopeless position and she does so much for her family and the people of the town who might not even appreciate it. When she must feed the Germans, she becomes the victim of gossip and shunned by the people she thought were her friends.

Herr Kommandant is a wonderfully written character and illustrates that people were just people on both sides of the war, especially World War I which is looked back on as such a pointless loss of life. He ebbs back and forth from good to bad and back again, I was willing him not to be a villain throughout. He does bad things but also shows kindness and just as much as I wanted to know Sophie’s fate, I wanted to know that deep down there was good in him.

I guess the success of Sophie’s story makes it hard to be wrenched away from her and into the present day. I found the topic of restitution interesting and thought-provoking. Whilst there is the possibility that the painting, known as The Girl You Left Behind, was stolen during the war, it has such sentimental value for Liv whilst Édouard’s descendants merely see it a material object that they feel they have the right to claim. The narrative doesn’t flit about between timelines; there is a good solid chunk at the start to get acquainted with Sophie and her life and her story slowly becomes more and more involved in the present day as Liv uncovers the history of her painting.

The modern day romance seemed to pale in comparison to that of the past, relying an awful lot on coincidence. Enjoyable enough in itself, it’s a little predictable and there’s a chance those picking it up for the more serious elements may find it a little contrived. Initially, Liv’s old college friend, Mo, is the catalyst for her to realise she’s lonely and to go out and eventually meet Paul but after that she was a bit of a spare part who was never really developed. Yet despite this, it’s such an absorbing story, I just flew through the pages and didn’t care.

Of course, readers will want to compare it with the hugely successful Me Before You. Sophie’s story is incredibly moving but you’re much less likely to be reduced to a snotty, sobbing mess by the end. Maybe Moyes decided we needed time to recover from the heartbreak.

I'm afraid this is a bit of an advance review. The Girl You Left Behind is due to be released in paperback on 27th September 2012 by Penguin so make sure you add it to your wishlists so you don't forget. Thanks go to the publisher for providing a copy for review.

Goodreads | Amazon | Waterstones

  1. This does sound pretty wonderful, and what a detailed review! Wishlisting it right away. Adore the cover image too, so much.

  2. Sounds like a great read. I'll have to look for it this summer.

  3. This sounds like a great book! Fantastic review and beautifully written. I didn't even realise that this book was coming out x Thanks for this :) x

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“Come as you are” - Part 2: The BBC years

Martin Belam  by Martin Belam, 15 June 2011

I got my first proper digital job at the BBC in 2000, working as a Registration Co-ordinator. I kept the clipping of the job advert that I replied to. [1]

The advert for my first job at the BBC

There seems something really quaint now about checking the printed newspaper once a week for new media jobs until I saw one that I thought I could apply for. This really was a case of “Come as you are”. I’d made some websites, I had some technical knowledge, and I understood the principles on which search engines worked. There was no qualification you could get in SEO, and to be honest, the BBC didn't really understand that it was SEO. Hence the oblique job title.

I was recently prompted to blog about my early SEO years at the BBC having seen Chris Moran talk about how he does editorial SEO at The Guardian. My role revolved around submitting content to a variety of search engines that you've probably forgotten or never heard of - HotBot, Lycos, Teoma, Looksmart and Inktomi - as well as getting content listed in the Yahoo! directory. Rather than everything being crawler or site map based, this often consisted of submitting an actual URL of new content through a webform.

Old Search Engines

Read the full blog post: “SEO at the BBC - The early years

In that role I didn’t just look at external search engines, but also at the BBC’s own internal search, which had a very poor reputation. The technology, Muscat, wasn’t configured well, and a lot of BBC Online content was in different silos where it couldn’t be indexed. Notably, BBC News content was excluded from the site wide search.

We had a rudimentary “best bets” system though. We answered incoming mail from the feedback link on the search results pages, much of which was along the lines of “Dear BBC, I was using your search to look for the Panorama programme. I typed in ‘panorama’ and I did not find the programme. This is a national disgrace, yours angrily etc etc”. And so we would find the URL of the Panorama programme website, and enter it into a spreadsheet, next to the search terms we thought it should appear for. This was periodically uploaded to a server, and at query time these best bets would appear.

The BBC began to realise that search was a key part of navigating their vast quantity of websites, and decided to invest in it as a project. This was the first time that I was exposed to user testing, as several different search designs were put in front of users. I think there is something astonishingly powerful about witnessing a user testing session and really realising for the first time that “you are not your users”.

2001 BBCi Search results

The lilac BBCi search result pages from 2001

One of the outputs of that project was a more sophisticated taxonomy and taxonomy management tool to power search best bets across BBCi, as it was then being rebranded. That project also introduced me to personas for the first time, and the software was known as “Bromsgrove”, because that was where the primary target audience persona lived.

Eastenders Node

The “EastEnders” node in the BBC’s search taxonomy tool

My job then mutated slightly, and I began to specialise in search log analysis. It came about by accident. Tom Loosemore had been to Google, and been impressed by the real-time display of searches they had in their main office. He thought it would be good to do the same at the BBC Bush House reception. And so, with some very rough and hacky Perl, I wrote a script that would take the logfiles, strip naughty words out, and then display them in a news-ticker style on a webpage.

The important thing was that it really got me looking at the BBC’s search logs. Over the Christmas holiday in 2002 I hand-classified a sample of 20,000 search terms from a single day of search on the BBC website, and gave a presentation of my findings within the organisation. Crucially, I wrote the study up as an article on my then very young blog - “A day in the life of BBCi Search”. At the time there were not many case studies from big media companies on the use of their internal search tools, and so it was noticed. One of the people who linked to me was Louis Rosenfeld, and suddenly I realised that there were a few people out there interested in analysing search user behaviour.

Another step along my personal introduction to the world of IA was when I began to start reading some papers from chi2003. I’m not even sure how I stumbled across them, but it turned out that in one of the papers, James Kalbach had reviewed the BBC’s site search interface.

a diagram taken from James Kalbach's paper 'I'm Feeling Lucky': The Role of Emotions in Seeking Information on the Web

James Kalbach’s annotation of a BBCi Search results page from his 2003 CHI paper

This was another “Come as you are” moment for me. My academic background was the humanities - I studied History. My computer knowledge started with having a ZX Spectrum home computer and programming in BASIC when I was a kid. I knew you could study computer science and programming, but I had no idea that HCI existed as an area of study.

This is something, over time, that has become to frustrate me with our community. For some reason, because people decided that the Mosaic web browser was the most amazing new thing to be unleashed on the planet ever, we treat it as some cultural year zero for design. I came into the field with little related knowledge, but there is so much prior art in interface design, information design, typography, psychology and any other number of fields that apply to what we do as IAs and UX people, yet it feels like sometimes our reading lists don’t go back any further than “Don’t make me think” and the Polar Bear.

I’ve written a lot about the BBC search project on this blog and on the BBC website over the years. If you are interested in finding out more then I’d recommend reading:
A day in the life of BBCi Search” - on currybetdotnet, March 2003
Developing search at the BBC” - on the BBC Internet blog, November 2007
History of web search at the BBC” - on currybetdotnet, March 2009

I left the BBC in 2005 to go freelance, and in the next part of this essay I’ll be looking at the things I learned working in a very different environment, for Sony in Austria.

[1] There is obviously something in this newspaper cuttings business. My colleague Karen Loasby at The Guardian also worked with me at the BBC for several years, and she also kept the clipping of her first BBC job advert [Return to article]

1 Comment

I remember the old days at uni, using AltaVista and Lycos for search when they first came on the scene. Nobody had heard of Google in those days. It's interesting how Google managed to so completely dominate the market, so much so that the word Google hs become a generic term for 'search'. But of course, everyone uses Google, it's fast an efficient. Do they have any real challengers. Not Bing anyway.

Keep up to date on my new blog


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CORSAIR Mac Memory DDR3 PC Memory Card - 8 GB SODIMM RAM
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 Sticky Toffee Pudding Recipe

A Classic Sticky Toffee Pudding with a Mediterranean Twist

 A Great - Sticky Toffee Pudding Recipe
This sticky toffee pudding recipe, is one of our favourite desserts.
It's light, gooey, packed with juicy Mediterranean dates, and has the most amazing, to die for, velvety toffee sauce.
One of our very occasional naughty treats!
It's great to make ahead of time...either keep in the fridge, or freeze it, no problem.
If you are making it for children you can leave out the brandy.
All of our friends rave about this sticky toffee pudding, and yet it is so easy and quick to make.

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Sticky Toffee Pudding Recipe Ingredients

To make 8 small individual puddings

  • 6oz/150g stoned dates, chopped
  • 175ml boiling water
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 teaspoons coffee essence
  • 3/4 level teaspoon bicarbonate of soda
  • 3oz/75g butter at room temperature
  • 5oz/140g brown sugar
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • 2 cardamon pods with the seeds removed, and ground finely in a pestle and mortar
  • 6oz/150g self raising flour, sifted
For the sauce
  • 1oz/25g walnuts or pecans, roughly chopped
  • 6oz/175g brown sugar
  • 4oz/110g butter
  • 6 tablespoons double/heavy cream
  • 4 tablespoons warmed brandy

New Feature: Printer Friendly Recipe Pages for your convenience.
You will need 8  baby pudding or dariole moulds greased with butter

Sticky Toffee Pudding Recipe Method
  1. First of all put the dates into a medium sized bowl and pour the boiling water over them.
  2. Add the coffee essence, vanilla extract and the bicarbonate of soda, giving them a quick mix.
  3. Using an electric hand mixer, cream the butter and brown sugar until pale, light and fluffy.
  4. Gradually add the eggs, beating well.
  5. Carefully fold in the flour and ground cardamon.
  6. Add the date mixture and evenly mix.
  7. Divide the mixture between the dariole moulds and put onto a baking tray.
  8. Place in the oven at 180ºc/350ºf on the middle shelf and bake for approximately 25 minutes, until the tops are firm and springy to the touch.
  9. While the puddings are baking make the sauce.
  10. Put the walnuts/pecans, brown sugar and butter into a small heavy based pan.
  11. Stir over a medium heat until all of the butter has melted and the sugar has dissolved, then turn the heat to high and add the cream.
  12. Bring to the boil, stirring all the time
  13. Allow to boil for about 4 minutes, until you have a glossy, thick sauce. Put to the side
  14. When you take the puddings out of the oven allow them stand for 5 minutes before removing them from their moulds. (Just slide a knife around the outside of each pudding, and turn them upside down on to a plate.)
  15. Carefully pour half a tablespoon of the warm brandy on to the top of each pudding, and then pour over the hot sauce. Serve Immediately
  16. We love them with a dollop of our vanilla ice cream recipe.
If you want to make these the day before simply de-mould them and put onto a large plate that fits into your microwave, pour on the brandy and cover them, making sure they are well sealed, with cling film. Refrigerate. Then when you want to serve them, buzz them in the microwave for about 3-4 minutes, till warmed through, then serve them on individual plates with the hot sauce poured over. Easy.
Lose Weight Mediterranean Diet Recipe
Sticky Toffee Pudding and Vanilla Ice Cream

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Newborn Essentials and Breastfeeding Saturday Seminar Mt. Hood

Learn the Basics of Newborn Care and Breastfeeding

To help you prepare for life with your newborn, we’ve combined these two popular classes for new parents in a convenient Saturday seminar.

This day-long, express class meets Saturday from 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Note: These auditorium-based classes are typically larger and more condensed than our traditional weekly classes. They are the best fit for those who can't make a weekly class.

Lunch Break is provided.

Newborn Essentials: Get information on newborn care and soothing techniques to keep your baby happy, healthy and safe. Learn about bathing, diapering, signs of illness, how babies communicate, dealing with a fussy baby and more.

Breastfeeding Basics: Feel more comfortable and relaxed about breastfeeding. Learn about establishing a good milk supply, what to expect when you go home, get tips on how to begin breastfeeding and discuss frequently-asked questions.

Preparing for the Parenting Journey:
We offer a full range of classes to prepare for birth and life with your new baby. For the best selection, we suggest that you register in your fourth month of pregnancy. Plan to finish all classes at least one month before your due date. If you are expecting multiples, please complete all classes before your third trimester.

FEES: $75.00

Your insurance health plan may cover part or all of the cost of this class. Contact your health plan before attending class to determine if reimbursement is available and to find out how to get reimbursed.

Pre-registration is mandatory. Due to limited space, we cannot accommodate walk-ins or guests.

Registration Confirmation: You will get an email confirmation after registering. If you do not get an email confirmation, please check your spam folder

We need notification two full business days before your scheduled class for you to receive a refund or to reschedule. In the unlikely event that Legacy has to cancel or reschedule a class, you will either be fully refunded or able to reschedule.

If you can’t come for any reason, please cancel or reschedule by logging into our online registration system.

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Stage 18: May 27 2010 - Levico Terme - Brescia 156 km

Sprinters' last stand

With two more decisive mountain stages and the final day time trial to come, this is the final fling for the sprinters. It's a short stage with no significant difficulties. Breakaway specialists will also have their eyes on this stage that follows the western shore of Lake Garda before heading into Brescia.

The brutal climbing in the previous week is likely to cause a number of top sprinters to drop out by this point. That means fewer teams with a good reason to chase down any escapees. The hills along the way will hinder the peloton from hitting its stride until the final 40km so there could be a frantic finale.

Procycling's favourite to win:

Winner of 26 Giro stages and three times the points champion, Lampre sprinter Alessandro Petacchi has only failed to finish his national tour three times in 10 starts. Those stats add up to a Petacchi win today. But if ‘Ale-jet' is out of the picture, Lampre should still be able to take the race on with Danilo Hondo, Mirco Lorenzetto and Francesco Gavazzi.

Stage Details

Distance: 156km
Vertical climb: 960m
Highest point: 717m
Terrain: Flat
Category: Road Stage

2010 Giro d'Italia Stage 18 profile2010 Giro d'Italia Stage 18 map

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Tour de France: Stage 13 preview

Stage 13 map, profile and Chris Boardman video preview

Saint-Paul-Trois-Châteaux – Le Cap d’Agde

Distance: 217km
Highest point: 238m
Category: Flat

Flat but not straightforward

Prudhomme and his team have not offered the sprinters too many certainties on this year’s route. A quick glance suggests this stage is one but it’s not quite as simple as that. The stage runs close to the Mediterranean and it’s not far from one of France’s prime windsurfing locations. It often blows in hard off the sea and if it’s gusting today, the riders will be heading into it. That could result in the peloton splitting. The climb of Mont-Saint-Clair is almost certain to cause splits. It looms up above the Med and offers a prime launch pad for a late escape. The sprint teams may get it back but don’t count on it.

André Greipel: "Who knows what could happen on a stage like this? We’ll want a small, unthreatening break to go early and then slowly reel them in. But it could go the other way and if it’s hot and windy like it often is down here, it could be a horrible day."

Maps and profiles courtesy of ASO

Tour de France 2012: Stage 13 profile

Tour de France 2012: Stage 13 map

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Evaline Elise Spivey

-A A +A

Evaline Elise Spivey was born to Susan and Adam Spivey of Lexington, Ky. on May 25, 2012 at Central Baptist Hospital in Lexington. she weighed 8 lbs., and is welcomed by her sister, Lilly.
Maternal grandparents are Joe and Millie Hudgins of Cynthiana; maternal great-grandparents are the late Margaret Hudgins and Curtis Paul Hudgins.
Paternal grandparents are Mark and Ellen Spivey of Lexington; paternal great-grandparents are are Betty Hicks of Cadiz, Ky., and Bernard and pat Spivey of Patterison, La.

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Harrison County District Court

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Sept. 25, Sept. 29,

By The Staff

Judge Jay Delaney

presiding Sept. 25, 2008

Leroy B. McCauley vs. Floyd Parsley, motion hour; motion for sanctions to be considered on submission of costs and fees, motion for reconsideration overruled, motion for contempt overruled.

Cynthiana Cash, LLC vs. Verina Adkins, court trial; no service, case dismissed without prejudice.

Cynthiana Cash, LLC vs. Cayce Collins, court trial; hearing held, judgment for plaintiff for $465.68 plus court costs.

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Office Hours are 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday


text:
Wednesday, 27 June 2012

Azad Kashmir economy needs more attention

KARACHI: The Azad Kashmir agricultural sector has the potential to produce tea of global quality if the government initiated an investment-friendly policy to attract foreign businessmen into farming.

Former President FPCCI, Chaudhry Saeed, also a politician of Azad Kashmir, revealed while talking to The News on Thursday at the Karachi Press Club. He added that Kashmir could also grow flowers of an international standard, but regretted that Pakistan had no significant share in the global trade of flowers, which stood at $1.5 billion.

He stressed the need to diversify the existing manufacturing sectors and agricultural products in Azad Kashmir to boost the national economy. Domestic tourism in the valley also needed to be encouraged, he said.

Chaudhry Saeed reported that the manufacturing units in Azad Kashmir have almost closed down because of the expensive electricity and dual taxation, leaving the textile, ghee producing and other such manufacturing units badly affected.

He urged the FBR to review its taxation system towards Kashmir businesses to stem the closure of industrial units. He hoped that a revised taxation policy for Azad Kashmir would help create an investment-friendly environment in the valley. Saeed demanded that the FBR rationalize the taxation system, commenting that the per capita income was still higher in Kashmir as tax evasion by businessmen was not very prevalent. The ex- FPCCI chief pointed out that the power tariffs for Kashmir were also higher by nearly Rs8 per unit, which also needed a rethink and should be receded.

Showing concern over Kashmir’s share in the NFC, he said that Kashmir had received only Rs9 billion during the last year, under the federal divisible pool, whereas its share stood at two percent. He stated that Rs30 billion as per accord should be given to Kashmir. And that Kashmir’s contribution to the foreign exchange reserves stood at $2.6 billion, out of the total $13 billion, through remittances.

Expressing disappointment over the government’s lack of interest in promoting tourism in AJK, he commented that Kashmir could not attract foreign tourists to its valley because of the government’s policy, which did not permit global visitors. However, local tourists should be encouraged to visit Kashmir, which would help boost the local economy of the people. He cited India’s example, where around a million local Indians tour the occupied Kashmir every year, which has allowed the domestic industry to grow. He pointed out that after the 9/11 incident, tourists of the Arab World thronged the Far Eastern countries. Pakistan, which offered greater facilities for tourists and more panoramic vistas, failed to attract any. Unfortunately the government was also not interested in promoting the business of Halal Food, a global trade, he lamented and added that Pakistan also did not place its products on the global market, while Thailand had a greater share, with its improved expertise in exporting products to international consumers.

The former FPCCI President, who is also the Finance Secretary of the Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz), revealed that his party had already prepared an economic plan on how to augment the national economy and enhance productivity, if they came into power.

Tahir Hasan Khan - The News (June 2012)

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Folklore had it that Alonzo Allen built his 1864 cabin east of town. Nowadays, all that remains is a fireplace. The archaeologists conducting the dig set out to answer a few simple questions about the building, such as when it was built, how big it was, and what became of it. In the process of answering those questions, many fascinating clues turned up. This is your chance to see just what was hiding under ground for 150 years. Artifacts from the 2012-2013 archaeological dig of Alonzo Allen's cabin site are featured now through June 30th. This display includes photos and maps of the dig, Civil War era mining tools from the excavation, as well as stories about the man who gave Allenspark his name, 1 p.m., Carnegie Branch Library for Local History, 1125 Pine St. Boulder; free; 303-441-3110.

"Herndon Davis: Painting Colorado History" by Thomas Noel and Craig Leavitt Herndon Davis, an artist and journalist, dedicated his life to depicting the major landmarks and personalities of Colorado. Despite his numerous contributions, his work was never showcased or exhibited in the traditional manner. "Herndon Davis: Painting Colorado History" is the first-ever collection featuring most of his life's work, 7:30 p.m., Boulder Book Store, 1107 Pearl St., Boulder; $5; 303-447-2074 or

His Holiness the Dalai Lama According to the Tibetan Association of Colorado, the Dalai Lama's teachings are rooted in the importance of promoting compassion, wisdom, tolerance, self-discipline and religious harmony as ways to achieve lasting happiness. In Colorado, the Dalai Lama will focus on methods of incorporating compassion and ethics into daily life. For a live stream of the event or more information, please visit, 9:30 a.m., Coors Events Center, 950 Regent Drive, Boulder;

My Year Living in Turkey Kelci de Haas a 2011 graduate of Longmont High School and 2014 graduate of Coe College, will give a presentation "My Year Living in Turkey." The recipient of a Fulbright award, Kelci has been teaching English in Zonguldak, Turkey for the school year 2015-16, 6:30 p.m., Light of Christ Ecumenical Catholic Community (sharing space with Bethlehem Lutheran), 1000 West 15th Ave., Longmont; free; 303-772-3785.

"Colorado Skies" Go on a journey through our night sky here in Colorado. This one hour program is broken down into two parts. First is the star talk about the night sky. We explore the stars, constellations and the overall mechanics of how the sky and objects within it move. This is a great chance for members of our audience to ask questions about their favorite constellation or what the sky looks like at the Equator or any other place on earth. The second half of the show is based on a selected topic, from Mars to Black Holes to the nature of science, 7 p.m., Fiske Planetarium, 2414 Regent Drive, Boulder; $10;

A Day With Fidel Castro. Boulder-Cuba Sister City Organization public meeting Boulder-Cuba Sister City Organization public meeting featuring retired Associated Press reporter Joe McGowan Jr. sharing his experience interviewing Fidel Castro after the Cuban Missile Crisis, 7 p.m., Alfafa's Market Community Room, 1651 Broadway, Boulder; free; 303-499-1061 or

Last Men on Earth Niwot's Rock & Rails, 5 p.m., Whistle Stop Park, Murray Street and First Avenue, Niwot;

C-Bob's Gin Joint Jam 6 p.m., Vapor Distillery, 5311 Western Ave., #180, Boulder; 303-997-6134

Foxfeather Summer Concert Series, 6:30 p.m., Longmont Museum, 400 Quail Road, Longmont;

Open Bluegrass Jam 7 p.m., Rock Inn, 1675 Colo. 66, Estes Park;

Brad Fitch Thursday Night Live, 7 p.m., Performance Park, 417 W. Elkhorn Ave, Estes Park;

FACE Summer Concert Series, 7 p.m., Community Park, 955 Bella Vista Drive, Louisville;

Tim Ostdiek 7:30 p.m., Samples World Bistro, 370 Main St., Longmont;


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A HAMPSHIRE culture chief has won national recognition for her work chronicling a maritime family and Southampton’s Tudor past.

Eastleigh Borough Council’s head of culture Dr Cheryl Butler was presented with the national award by The British Association for Local History (BALH) in Euston, London, as part of Local History Day.

As well as undertaking her own research and writing and producing three volumes for the Southampton Records Series Dr Butler has inspired and managed two major projects.

The Diaper Heritage Association and Tudor Revels, both of which earned Heritage Lottery Fund grants.


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Breaking News Bar
updated: 6/20/2014 4:39 PM

Des Plaines Park District to hold focus groups

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Submitted by Des Plaines Park District

The Des Plaines Park District is inviting residents, parents, and business and community leaders to participate in one of three focus group sessions this summer to help with strategic and master planning.

No registration is required for the sessions, which are:

• Thursday, June 26, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Arndt Park Fieldhouse, 1900 White St.

• Wednesday, July 30, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. West Park Fieldhouse, 651 S. Wolf Road.

• Tuesday, August 26, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Chippewa Park, 197 N. Eighth Ave.

The meetings, which give attendees the opportunity to share their thoughts and ideas about facilities, parks, programs and services, will provide feedback to augment the information collected in a Community Needs Assessment completed in 2012.

"With additional input from the community, the park district will be able to better provide for the needs of our residents and chart a course for the next three to five years," said Don Miletic, assistant executive director. "We are looking to capture our resident's perceptions about the district, what parks and facilities they use, and ways we can better serve the needs of the community. This is a way for the community to help shape the future of their park district."

Attendees will be divided into groups of eight to 10, each with its own facilitator and a note taker.

For information, call (847) 391-5700 or go to

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    Illinois Press Association
    Illinois Press Association


text:
Hamilton walks out on McLaren for his 'fresh challenge' at Mercedes as Perez joins Button

Is Hamilton right to quit McLaren for Mercedes?

Is Hamilton right to quit McLaren for Mercedes?

  • Yes 4253 votes
  • No 3512 votes

Now share your opinion

Lewis Hamilton has cut ties with his boyhood team McLaren and will replace Michael Schumacher at Mercedes, as exclusively revealed by Sportsmail.

The British star, who has signed a deal worth up to £60million, including win bonuses over three years, cited the need for a 'fresh challenge'.

It will bring to an end the Briton's 14-year association with McLaren, the team who sponsored him from when he was a 13-year-old karting prodigy.

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Decision to make: McLaren star Lewis Hamilton's future remains unclear

Decision to make: McLaren star Lewis Hamilton's future remains unclear

'It is now time for me to take on a fresh challenge and I am very excited to begin a new chapter racing for the Mercedes Formula 1 team,' said Hamilton.

'Mercedes-Benz has such an incredible heritage in motorsport, along with a passion for winning which I share.

'Together, we can grow and rise to this new challenge. I believe that I can help steer the Silver Arrows to the top and achieve our joint ambitions of winning the world championships.'

Mercedes team boss Ross Brawn added: 'I am delighted to welcome Lewis Hamilton to our team.

See Lew next year: Hamilton will partner Rosberg at Mercedes in 2013

See Lew next year: Hamilton will partner Rosberg at Mercedes in 2013

'The arrival of a driver of Lewis' calibre is a testament to the standing of Mercedes-Benz in Formula 1 and I am proud that Lewis shares our vision and ambition for the success of the Silver Arrows.

'I believe that the combination of Lewis and Nico will be the most dynamic and exciting pairing on the grid next year, and I am looking forward to what we can achieve together.'

McLaren had earlier announced that Sauber driver Sergio Perez, 22, will replace Hamilton at the British outfit next season.

The Mexican, a member of the Ferrari driver academy, said: 'I'm thrilled and delighted to have become a Vodafone McLaren Mercedes driver.

'The McLaren name is one of the greatest in the history of Formula 1. For more than 40 years McLaren has been a team that every racing driver has aspired to drive for – I was brought up on the great stories of Ayrton Senna's many world championship triumphs for McLaren – and I'm truly honoured that they've chosen me to partner Jenson from 2013 onwards.'

Thumbs up: Sergio Perez will replace Lewis Hamilton at McLaren next season

Thumbs up: Sergio Perez will replace Lewis Hamilton at McLaren next season

In a statement released by McLaren, team principal Martin Whitmarsh paid tribute to the departing Hamilton.

He said: 'It's entirely appropriate that I should take this opportunity to pass on our thanks to Lewis. He wrote a huge chapter of his life and career with us, and was, and always will be, a fine member of an exclusive club: the McLaren world champions' club.

'It goes without saying that we all wish him well for the future, just as it also goes without saying that we hope and believe that Sergio, too, will become a member of that exclusive club before too long.'

Hamilton's critics will say he is leaving for money but it is understood the offers on the table were similar. His basic Mercedes salary of around £15m - the same figure he is on at McLaren - will maintain his status as one of the grid's top earners alongside Ferrari's Fernando Alonso and possibly Red Bull's Sebastian Vettel.

Rollercoaster: Hamilton has had an up-and-down season at McLaren

Rollercoaster: Hamilton has had an up-and-down season at McLaren

That said, Mercedes will  offer greater freedom than McLaren in letting Hamilton's management company, Simon Fuller's XIX Entertainment, to strike personal endorsements for their man.

More important than money - and Hamilton is known to be cautious with his finances - is his desire to improve on a return of one title in five completed seasons, a disappointing statistic for a driver who envisaged himself as a serial champion on his much-heralded arrival in Formula One.

'We didn't agree terms with Lewis's management therefore Lewis and his management team have decided to go elsewhere,' Whitmarsh added.

'We have made a financial offer which is better than anyone in Formula One, other than himself, receives today, and that is something that I am comfortable with.

'I know we made a very, very big financial offer, bigger than I believe any Formula One driver is enjoying today.'

The will-he-won't-he saga has captivated the sport for months but in the end the attraction of a fresh start, away from a team where he has always been treated with parental care, appears to have been too hard for the 27-year-old to resist.

Flashing the cash: Mercedes have tried to tempt Hamilton to their team

Flashing the cash: Mercedes have tried to tempt Hamilton to their team

The other governing factor was his desire for a championship-winning car. Whitmarsh always claimed that staying put represented the best chance of success, but the evidence for that assertion is patchy: though they are regular race winners, McLaren have won just a single drivers' title since 1999.

The question is whether Mercedes, who have support at board level in Germany but are run from Brackley, Northamptonshire, are better equipped to deliver.  They have only been back in the sport as manufacturers since 2010, though in their previous guise as  Brawn won the title through Jenson Button.

Brawn, the engineering svengali behind all seven of Schumacher's titles, remains  team principal and his presence is sure to have been a major lure for Hamilton with significant changes to the engine regulations due for the 2014 season.

Brawn exploited a previous revamping of the technical blueprint in 2009, allowing Hamilton's McLaren team-mate Button to waltz to his championship success. With Mercedes as engine makers, Brawn is well placed to conjure another trick.

Conversely, McLaren, who get their engines free from Mercedes as part of a long-term association, will have to pay for their supply from next year. That will put a strain on their budget.

End of the road: Michael Schumacher will announce his retirement from F1 for the second time

End of the road: Michael Schumacher will announce his retirement from F1 for the second time

Mercedes have won one race this season to McLaren's five but it is probable that Hamilton would extract more from even this existing car than the 43-year-old Schumacher and his team-mate Nico Rosberg.

Hamilton is close to Norbert Haug, Mercedes' head of motor sport, who often acted as an avuncular supporter of the young Briton back when the German manufacturers were in full partnership with McLaren.

As for Schumacher, he has been a shadow of his formerly dominant self since coming out of his first retirement in 2010. He has managed just one podium, this year in Valencia.

'I have had three nice years with the team which unfortunately did not go as well as we all would have wanted on the sporting side,' Schumacher said.

'I wish Lewis well and for the team to achieve the success we worked so hard for in the build-up. I would like to thank the team for their trust and all the guys for their unconditional commitment. I will now concentrate on the next races.'

VIDEO: Hamilton is leaving for a 'fresh challenge'...

VIDEO: F1 Magazine editor comments on Hamilton's move

Hamilton's five best races for McLaren

Hamilton rewrote the record books during his rookie season as he finished on the podium in his first nine races. The sixth of those drives saw him claim his maiden victory at the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve. The Briton led from pole position and kept his cool during four safety car periods to lead home Nick Heidfeld and Alexander Wurz.

Hamilton was desperate to follow in the wheeltracks of his hero Ayrton Senna by standing on the top step of the podium at Formula One's most glamorous event, and he did so with a superb drive on the treacherous streets of the principality. In wet conditions a sixth-lap brush with the barrier saw Hamilton suffer a puncture, but he recovered masterfully to claim victory.

Another wet-weather masterclass from Hamilton. Having stormed through from fourth on the grid to pass team-mate Heikki Kovalainen during the early stages, the Briton simply destroyed the field to win by 68 seconds having lapped the whole grid apart from the top three. It was the biggest winning margin in a grand prix since 1995.

Has there ever been a more dramatic conclusion to a season? Hamilton knew fifth place would guarantee him the title even if rival Felipe Massa won the race. But as the Ferrari driver romped to victory, Hamilton dropped to sixth shortly after pitting during a late-race shower. All hope appeared to be lost until the McLaren passed the Toyota of Timo Glock, struggling on dry-weather tyres, at the very last corner.

Hamilton's title defence proved to be a miserable affair with McLaren miles off the pace during the first half of the season. But a major upgrade package marked a return to the front of the field and Hamilton made full use by taking a dominant victory on a weekend overshadowed by the serious injuries suffered in a qualifying crash by Felipe Massa.

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text:
Track and share your training!

Dailymile makes it easy to keep track of your workouts. Map your routes and share with a community of active people.

Austin logged 189 miles.

Last workout over 2 years ago. Help get them back on track!

  • 0 miles
  • 0:00 time
  • 0 calories
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  • This Week time period

  1. RUN
    good UNT Running Club "Square Route" 4.6 mi 00:30 06:31 pace

    I'm on a mission to get back in shape. I started running today with the UNT Running Club!

  2. RUN
    great UCA in Conway, AR 6.5 mi 00:45 06:55 pace

    Recovery run with the team through Conway. Glad to be part of the University of Central Arkansas cross country team.

  3. RUN
    good Trails to Willow Grove Park 6.44 mi 00:42 06:31 pace

    Willow Grove Park and back. Super humid out, but I still felt good.

  4. RUN
    good Greenbelt Trail 5.5 mi 00:35 06:21 pace

    The first day of running after my 2 week break. Starting to build up my base mileage for the summer.

  5. RUN
    great Unity Park Track 6.06 mi

    1.5 mi warm-up... 10x400m @ :35-36... :60 interval jog (100m) between each 400m... 1.5 mi cool-down.

  6. Sanger Track & Field Invitational today! The weather isn't looking so swell... I'm hoping they don't cancel it. I love running in the rain.

  7. RUN
    great LDHS Track 2.5 km

    Pre-Race Workout... 1200m warm-up (400m forward... 400m backward... 400m forward)... stretch... plyometrics... 6 x 150m acceleration runs... 400m cool-down on the turf... stretch.

  8. RUN
    great LDHS Post Oak and Back (2 Mi) 5.79 mi

    1200m warm-up (400m forward... 400m backward... 400m forward)... 2 miles to Post Oak Dr and back followed by 4 x 150m Sprints... Repeat... 400m cool-down.

  9. FIT
    great LDHS Weight Room

    2 sets of 8 reps with a partner for each exercise... Bench Press... Curls... Incline Bench... Dead Lift... Lunges w/weights... Lift Weights w/straight arms in front... Leg Extensions (Quads)... Lif... read more

  10. RUN
    great Neighborhood 3 Mile Course 4 mi 00:26 06:30 pace

    Easy Recovery Run on my neighborhood 3 mile course and 1 mile loop.

  11. FIT
    great Strength Workout @ Home

    Medball 300 Core Workout

  12. RUN
    great LDHS Track 4.25 mi

    Speed Workout with the team... 1200m warm-up (400m forward... 400m backward... 400m forward)... 6 x 800m @ 2:25-2:30... 800m cool-down.

  13. RUN
    great Unity Park Track 5.5 mi

    1 mile warm-up... 6 x 200m @ :35-:36 seconds each w/NO rest (1200m total)... If I fell off my pace, I stopped and rested until my HR fell below 120... Repeat 4x... 1.5 mile cool-down.

  14. Hey everyone! Since last time I was on here, I have signed with the University of Central Arkansas to run cross-country and track.
    After taking a break from DailyMile for a few months, I've de... read more

  15. RUN
    great Highland Village Trail Loop 5.75 mi 00:37 06:26 pace

    I felt great! I needed a solid recovery run like this.

  16. FIT
    great LDHS Weight Room

    2 cycles of 30 seconds per station w/partner... Leg Extensions, Plank, Bench Press, Curls, Plank, Incline Bench Press, Dead Lift, Plank, Lunges w/Weights, Plank, Lift Arms Foreward w/10lb Weight, P... read more

  17. I can't wait until December. I'll be the guy with Christmas music on his mp3 player, running through the neighborhood at night looking at your Christmas lights. lol

  18. RUN
    great Willow Grove Park Trail 2 mi 00:09:26 04:43 pace

    After school workout: 8x400m @ 1:12, 1:12, 1:12, 1:12, 1:10, 1:12, 1:10, & 1:06.

    • Julie F.
      Julie F.

      Wow! Seriously!

      over 5 years ago Like

    • Tom H.
      Tom H.

      That's a great job, I love being able to hit the number like a metronome.

      over 5 years ago Like

    • Riaan
      Riaan Great Performance
      Great Performance:

      Now THAT's consistency!

      over 5 years ago

    • Runner G.
      Runner G. Great Performance
      Great Performance:

      Very nice!

      over 5 years ago

  19. RUN
    great LDHS Distance Loop 3 mi 00:18 06:00 pace

    3 mile distance loop this morning ... 3 strides up-and-down Brazos with the team.

  20. RUN
    great Thrasher's Maze 2.21 mi 00:20 09:09 pace

    Slow cool down run with my mom and sister.


text:
Councilman Richard Alarcón says son is homeless, helps launch housing project in Sunland-Tujunga

SUNLAND-TUJUNGA - Sometimes while driving around his district, Los Angeles City Councilman Richard Alarcón will spot his son on the street, scrounging for food around a Del Taco restaurant.

His 35-year-old son was diagnosed with schizophrenia years before, and prefers to live on the streets, Alarcón said.

"My son is homeless in the San Fernando Valley," Alarcón said. "He is lost in mental illness and we don't know if he is taking his meds."

The councilman revealed his personal struggle Monday during a groundbreaking ceremony of a new, permanent supportive housing complex in the Sunland-Tujunga area for the homeless with mental health needs.

Born out of need and outcry from the community, the Day Street Apartments are being developed by L.A. Family Housing, a non-profit agency and one of the largest affordable housing providers in the county. The apartment units will be built on what is now a vacant, weed-choked lot at 7639 Day St.

When completed in early 2014, the $15 million Day Street Apartments will include 46 units designed to serve the homeless and low-income mentally ill.

Residents will receive free onsite mental health counseling, case management and job support services.

The new building is the kind of project that Alarcón said he hopes to see more of across Los Angeles.

"Our county is not yet ready to provide the kind of services we still need," Alarcón said. "When you consider the number of those with mental illness who are homeless, (they) have special needs."

Alarcón was joined by Los Angeles County Supervisor Michael D. Antonovich and dozens of other city and county housing officials and mental health experts at the building site, who also acknowledged that while Day Street was a step in the right direction, more such projects and programs, as well as state funding to help those struggling with mental illness, are needed.

"Day Street Apartments represents our commitment to provide permanent housing solutions for our community's most vulnerable," said Stephanie Klasky-Gamer, president and CEO of L.A. Family Housing of North Hollywood.

She praised the city, county, the Sunland-Tujunga community and the neighborhood council for recognizing that "the only way to meet the needs of the homeless was to build a permanent solution," she said.

For decades, the homeless have made Sunland-Tujunga their home, especially within the Big Tujunga Wash at the edge of the Angeles National Forest. But after recent police sweeps through the wash to dismantle those encampments, the homeless dispersed to other areas, many to Sunland Park.

The issue escalated over the summer, when residents noticed mattresses and shopping carts accumulating in the park. Parents said they were afraid to take their children there.

Sunland's distance from several social service agencies in downtown Los Angeles also contributed to the problem.

Klasky-Gamer and others noted that the homeless in Sunland-Tujunga stand out from other populations. A majority are born and raised in the area. Many are couples, and most have pets.

The Day Street Apartments will accommodate 14 couples, and also include a dog run.

At first, some Sunland-Tujunga residents objected to the idea of such a housing project in their neighborhood.

Some, such as Day Street resident Kerry Parker said while he liked the concept of the building, he worried about the extra cars. Day Street is narrow and dead-ends right where the project will be built.

"Where are 40 extra cars going to go?" he wondered.

Joe Barrett, president of the Sunland-Tujunga Alliance, Inc, said there were many questions from the community when Day Street was proposed more than a year ago. But he said the community was impressed with the Palo Verde project in Sun Valley, and with Klasky-Gamer's presentations.

Barrett said he believes 90 percent of the community is now supportive.

"The Alliance was created to fight off bad development like the Home Depot," Barrett said. "This time, we're thrilled to promote something responsible."

Alarcón, whose term ends in June, said he will continue to work on ending homelessness in Los Angeles County. Like Sunland-Tujunga, many communities "sorely need these services" such as the Day Street Apartments.

Such projects may one day be able to reach his son, he said.

"It is the greatest struggle for my wife and I to see our son this way," he said.

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text:
Video thumbnail, Mark Bridger's house is demolished
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April Jones' killer Mark Bridger's house is demolished

The parents of murdered schoolgirl April Jones have welcomed the demolition of a cottage rented by her killer Mark Bridger they have called the "house from hell".

Paul, with his arm on the shoulder of a visibly upset Coral,  stood in dignified silence, beside April's sister Jazmin and brother Harley, as a digger reduced the detached cottage, incongrously called Mount Pleasant to rubble.

Coral  and Paul  said this morning's destruction of Bridger's former home would set April's "spirit free" and allow them some "closure"

It was here in the village of Ceinws where Bridger is believed have took  five-year-old April after abducting her from outside her home in nearby Machynlleth on October 1, 2012.

April's remains have never been found.

Coral  said: "Mark Bridger murdered our daughter at that house. I'm glad it's been demolished it's allowed her spirit to be free, I am glad that she will at last have peace."

The property was bought by the Welsh Government in April so that it could be demolished at the wish of April’s family – a plan supported by the local community.

Coral made clear that she did not want a memorial garden at the site: "It's not what I want."

She went on to explain why the demolition of the cottage meant so much to them : "A part of me needed to see it (coming down). When you pass the road your head always turns towards this house.

"It's the house from hell."

April Jones who was murdered by Mark Bridger two years ago.
April Jones who was murdered by Mark Bridger two years ago.

"I'm glad it's been taken down. It's brought all the horrible memories of what has happened here back to us."

Paul said the destruction of the cottage would also come as a relief to the people of Ceinws: "It has brought unwanted attention to the village and it's not right for the village.

"It is a symbolic thing to have this knocked down. We hope that the village of Ceinws now has normality."

"It preys on the back of your mind. even when you are not thinking about it was  there. It's not (now) going to be bothering us or plaguing us for the rest of our lives. "

When Coral was asked if he thought April's remains would ever be found, she said: "There is only one person who can give us those answers.

"He will never say. He had plenty of opportunities... and I don't think he will ever tell us."

Mark Bridger
Mark Bridger

Welsh Government officials said the rubble would be cleared from the site and disposed of. It will not be recycled as would normally be the case.

They said there are currently no plans about what to do with the land, adding it will be something for the local community to decide.

It is believed that the Welsh Government paid the unnamed owner around £149,000 for the property – the same sum he had paid for it in 2008.

Paul said he was hopeful that the family can now "move on a little" to the next stage in their lives.

"It's closure for now. We don't have to bother about it (anymore). We don't have to stress. It's the end of a chapter for us. We wish to thank the Welsh Government. You should have been  in the house when they told us. We were all shouting and bawling.

Scaffolding went up around the property last week and last Friday diggers arrived and removed the roof completely .

Bridger, 47, was convicted last year of abducting and murdering her and perverting the course of justice by disposing of her body. He was given a life sentence.


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Special session fallout

They did what they had to do, and they went home. That's the best that can be said of the special session of the Maryland General Assembly that concluded today. The tax increases, spending cuts, fund transfers and other measures lawmakers approved in 21/2 days this week protect public education, health and public safety and put the state on a path to fiscal sustainability, all while requiring a relatively minimal additional contribution from taxpayers. After a chaotic end to the regular General Assembly session, order has been restored.

Lawmakers' actions may have staved off the fiscal and social damage that would have been caused by their failure last month, but what about the political fallout? Voters are keenly aware that lawmakers were responding to a crisis of their own making, one that fed the notion that Maryland has an absentee governor and an arrogant General Assembly leadership. Did the efficiency of this week's special session begin to erase that stain, or will it have lasting political effects? Here's how the key players come out.

Gov. Martin O'Malley: The governor looked somewhat aloof and disengaged when work on the budget stalled and the clock ran out on the legislature in April. Suddenly, his frequent appearances on national television news talk shows and at out-of-state political events started to look like liabilities. His tough talk for legislative leaders the morning after the budget debacle sounded too little, too late. However, since then, he has managed to bring House SpeakerMichael E. Busch and Senate PresidentThomas V. Mike Miller together. His suggestion of putting off any discussion of expanded gambling until a possible second special session provided a path forward, and this week's session went off without a hitch. It doesn't make him look good, but it minimizes the damage.

Republicans got in some good shots at the governor's record on taxes — Sen.E.J. Pipkin dubbed him the "$2 billion governor" — and that will certainly be exploited by his opponents if Mr. O'Malley does, as expected, seek national office. But on that score, this special session almost certainly won't be the most significant political event of the year for the governor. Voter referendums on in-state tuition for illegal immigration and same-sex marriage will matter much more.

Senate President Thomas V. Mike Miller: The longtime leader of the Senate got the brunt of the initial blame for the budget collapse on the final night of the legislative session. He had been pushing hard for an expansion of gambling, including legalizing table games and authorizing a sixth Maryland casino at National Harbor, and the widespread belief in Annapolis was that he held up the budget to gain leverage for that effort. Some of his statements before and after the final day of the session lent credence to that interpretation of events, and for a time, there were rumblings that his performance could lead to a coup and new leadership in the Senate for the first time in more than a quarter-century.

Mr. Miller assiduously denies that his push for gambling was the reason for the budget failure, and whatever the truth is about what happened on the session's last day, he has taken every step necessary since then to move forward. He did not push for consideration of gambling this week, and he did not insist on reopening negotiations with the House on the tax package, instead sticking with an agreement that closely mirrored the lower chamber's initial plan. The smooth proceedings in the Senate this week suggest he remains firmly in control.

House Speaker Michael Busch: Though some senators complained that the House negotiators' unwillingness to meet them halfway on taxes was the reason for the budget breakdown, Mr. Busch caught less of the blame for it than the governor and Senate president. During the special session, he held his caucus in line, with the only real challenge coming from a small group of Montgomery County delegates who pushed for an alternative to income tax increases. Still, voters who don't follow the day-to-day machinations in Annapolis are likely to come away with a worse impression of everyone in power, the speaker included.

The Republicans: House and Senate Republicans did an effective job of protesting against the work of this special session without overplaying their hands. They made sure the public knew that the so-called "doomsday budget" actually increased total state spending over last year — a point that sounds much more compelling than it really is but which requires a lengthy and complicated explanation to overcome. The decision of Republican senators not to mount a filibuster was also wise — it would be hard to argue that the session was a waste of time and money if they were responsible for the whole affair being longer and more costly.

But will it turn the tide in the GOP's favor come election time? Probably not, at least not by itself. The next gubernatorial election is more than two years away, and a lot will happen between now and then. Moreover, the legislature had a similar failure in 2006, when an effort to mitigate a 72 percent BGE rate increase died on the Senate floor in the last moments of the regular session, forcing lawmakers to come back a few months later. The result? Republicans lost the governor's mansion and a few seats in the House. The Democrats in the State House look bad — and deservedly so — for being forced to come back to Annapolis, but it will take a lot more to turn blue Maryland red.

Copyright © 2017, Daily Press


text:
Homicide charge is latest trouble for former Wizard

Javaris Crittenton never had a chance to establish a reputation in the NBA before he became notorious. He was the other, seemingly insignificant half in one of the most embarassing incidents the Wizards franchise has had to face.

An often-injured, undistinguished player, Crittenton got caught up in the locker-room gun incident with Gilbert Arenas in December 2009 — a situation that led to both players getting suspended for the rest of the season, Arenas spending time in a halfway house, and Crittenton pleading guilty to a misdemeanor gun charge and a year's probation.

Now, nearly 19 months after he pleaded guilty in D.C. Superior Court to possession of an unregistered firearm, Crittenton faces a homicide charge in the death of Jullian Jones, a mother of four. Atlanta police allege that Crittenton fired gunshots onto a street in southwest Atlanta from a black Chevy Tahoe. Jones, whose age has been reported as 22 or 23, was struck in the leg and died during surgery, the Atlanta Journal-Constitution reported.

According to the Journal-Constitution, investigators believe that the 23-year-old Crittenton may have been retaliating for a robbery that occurred in April and was attempting to shoot one of the two men who were walking with Jones.

It's easy to say this is a sad situation, but as a former associate of Crittenton's put it, it's "worse than sad." The latest turn of events is nothing short of tragic, especially for the family of the victim, and for Crittenton, who — if this turns out to be true — clearly has not learned from his mistakes.

Arenas had an immediate reaction to the news on his Twitter account but has since deleted it. He wrote, "I really wanna say sumthing but I wont becuz theirs a dead women involved.…"

While attempting a comeback last year with the Charlotte Bobcats — not only from the gun incident but also a serious ankle injury that required two surgeries — Crittenton explained during training camp what he had gained from the experience in Washington and appeared to have matured.

"Use wisdom in everything and just don't get caught up in foolishness and nonsense and crazy people around you," Crittenton said in October. "It was a bad decision on both ends and we're trying to move forward with our careers and our lives."

Charlotte didn't have room for another point guard and cut Crittenton about two weeks later. He went to China before returning to play for the Dakota Wizards of the NBA Development League, hoping for an other opportunity in the NBA that never came — and now might never come.

After his dispute with Arenas, many around the league doubted that the 6-foot-3 point guard would ever play in another NBA game. He was a borderline player, but the incident tagged Crittenton with the label of a reckless, gun-toting thug.

When the Los Angeles Lakers drafted him in the first round of the 2007 NBA draft, Crittenton was viewed as a polite, mature kid whose only major blunder was perhaps leaving school too early.

Crittenton lied to Wizards officials about having a gun and — despite Arenas' saying he wasn't the only one with firearms in the locker room — didn't admit he had the weapon until he turned himself in to accept a plea agreement.

Copyright © 2017, Daily Press


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James Caviezel

Omarr's Daily Astrological Forecast September 26, 2011

BIRTHDAY GUY: Actor James Caviezel was born in Mount Vernon, Wash., on this day in 1968. This birthday guy made waves with his portrayal of Jesus in Mel Gibson's controversial 2004 film "The Passion of the Christ." He has also starred in movies such "Outlander," "Deja Vu" and "Bobby Jones: Stroke of Genius." In 2009, Caviezel starred in the mini-series "The Prisoner."

ARIES (March 21-April 19): If it isn't broken, don't fix it. Your charming manners can attract others to your side, so this is a good time to seek support or impress others if you stifle a desire to implement drastic changes to procedures.

TAURUS (April...