07 December 2008
Hercules: The World's Biggest Dog Ever
13/12/2008 06:04
According to Guinness
World
RecordsHercules was recently awarded the honorable distinction of Worlds Biggest Dog by the Guinness Book of World Records.
Hercules is an English Mastiff and has a 38 inch neck and weighs 282 pounds.
With "paws the size of softballs" (reports the Boston Herald), the three-year-old monster is far larger and heavier than his breed's standard 200 lb. limit.
Hercules owner Mr.
Flynn says that Hercules weight is natural and
not induced by a bizarre diet: "I fed him
normal food and he just grew".... and grew,
and grew, and grew.
SINC SAYS:
Great thundering hooves Batman, that dog’s as big as the horse.
SINC SAYS:
Great thundering hooves Batman, that dog’s as big as the horse.
Doctor's Advice: Leave The Toilet Seat Up
13/12/2008 06:04
One of the
longest-running spousal debates may now be
settled in favor of men and for the sake of
little
boys.Leave the toilet seat up, some British doctors now say. The reason: a rising trend for heavy wooden and ornamental toilet seats to fall down onto the penises of unsuspecting (and just potty-trained) toddlers.
Dr. Joe Philip and his colleagues of Leighton Hospital, Crewe, in England detail such penis-crush injuries in the December issue of the journal BJU International. The team reports on four boys between the ages of 2 and 4 who were admitted to hospitals with injuries serious enough to require an overnight stay.
The doctors say the injuries have implications for holiday travel and at-home toilet safety for parents with male toddlers.
"As Christmas approaches many families will be visiting relatives and friends and their recently toilet-trained toddlers will be keen to show how grown-up they are by going to the toilet on their own," Philip said. "It is important that parents check out the toilet seats in advance, not to mention the ones they have in their own homes, and accompany their children if necessary."
What's up here?
SINC SAYS:
I always knew life had its up and downs, but never thought that up would win the day.
Kevin Martin Reaches New Heights
13/12/2008 06:03
Local skip’s banner raised to Saville roof for Brier and Worlds wins
EDMONTON - It's a good thing there's a lot of room in the rafters at the Saville Sports Centre.
They're probably going to need it.
The University of Alberta curling facility honored four of its own Thursday night, raising a banner to the roof in a tribute to club member Kevin Martin's rink for its 2008 Brier and world championship victories.
That makes three national titles (2008, 1997, 1991) and the one world win (also last season) for Martin, whose current rink of third John Morris, second Marc Kennedy and lead Ben Hebert shows little signs of letting down. Nor does its skip, who at 42 feels fresh and revamped with the team he formed two seasons ago.
"Yeah, there's a lot of room up there for the Saville Centre (championship banners). I'm not sure they'll need it for me though," chuckled Martin of the space in the rafters.
Hey, at this pace they may have to create a Martin wing. All he's done along the 2009 World Curling Tour campaign is run up a solid 48-7 record, winning the Westcoast Curling Classic in New Westminster, B.C., Oct. 10-13; the Flint Energy Classic in Bonnyville, Oct. 24-27; and the Best Western Wayside Inn Curling Classic, Nov. 7-10, in Lloydminster.
He's coming off a semifinal defeat to eventual champion Wayne Middaugh at The National in Quebec City last weekend and he started the year as a runner-up to Norway's Thomas Ulsrud at the Radisson SAS Oslo Cup in September.
More from the Edmonton Journal.
UPDATE:
Team Martin lost their first game of the Canada Cup Qualifier Friday morning to Steve Petryk of Edmonton by a 7-3 score. They're going to have to pick it up if they hope to be around on the weekend.
They can always use the excuse that it was because Lead Ben Hebert missed the game due to work commitments and was replaced by Martin's long-time former Lead Don Bartlett.
Team Martin beat Dan Petryk 6-3 yesterday afternoon to square their record at 1-1 and they don't see further action until 8:30 a.m. this morning.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
This is a very well-deserved honor for Martin and his mates. Kevin Martin may be the greatest curler to ever lace ‘em up.
Sorenstam Jumps Into Lead At Dubai Masters
13/12/2008 06:03
Dubai, United Arab Emirates (Sports Network) - Annika Sorenstam, the two-time defending champion, fired a six-under 66 Friday to jump into the lead after two rounds of the Dubai Masters.
Sorenstam, who is stepping away from the game after this event, completed 36 holes at eight-under-par 136. That was good for a one-stroke lead.
Nikki Garrett also fired a 66 and is one stroke back at minus-seven.
First-round leader Johanna Head managed an even-par 72 Friday that dropped her into a share of third place at six-under-par 138. She was joined there by Veronica Zorzi (69) and Maria Verchenova (66).
Sorenstam parred her first two holes, then made eagle on the par-five third to jump to four-under. After two more pars, she carded three birdies in the next four holes to climb to seven-under.
The Swede parred the first three holes of the back nine at Emirates Golf Club. Sorenstam posted her final birdie at the par-five 13th, then parred the final five holes to close out a bogey-free round.
"My goal was to clean up the round that I had yesterday with no bogeys and I was able to do that, so I'm very, very happy," Sorenstam stated. "I wish I could have done a little better. I know I had a lot of chances and edges really. I hit the pin on the 11th hole, but I hit some good shots and I hit some good putts that just didn't go in."
Garrett played the back nine first and birdied the 11th and 18th. Around the turn, she birdied two, four, six and eight to move to seven-under.
Laura Davies, Anja Monke and Iben Tinning share sixth place at five-under-par 139. Amy Yang and Carin Koch are among eight players tied for ninth at minus- four.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
Wouldn’t this be a storybook ending to her career if Annika could win her last professional tournament and truly go out a winner!
Pavin Charged With Defending Ryder Cup
13/12/2008 06:03
Newly appointed captain says U.S. will be tourney underdog
Corey Pavin assumed the U.S. Ryder Cup captaincy on Thursday and maintained that his side would remain the underdogs when they defend their title in Wales in 2010.
The Americans beat Europe for the first time in nine years in September but the 49-year-old said repeating the feat by winning the biennial match away from home for only the third time since 1977 presented a greater challenge.
"When you look back on it, we've won two in the last seven," the former U.S. Open champion told reporters.
"We won the last one on home soil with everything in our favour in the sense of home field advantage, the crowd. It's different to go overseas and win.
"It's 1993 since we went over there and won. Before that was in 1981. It will help that we won (in Louisville). It will help the confidence of the team, but I still think we would be underdogs over there as the visiting team."
Pavin, who came from behind to beat the then dominating Greg Norman for his only major title at the 1995 U.S. Open at Shinnecock, can relate to the tag.
"My whole career, I felt like I was looked at as the underdog -- the David, so to speak, of David and Goliath," he said.
More from the Edmonton Journal.
Pavin named American Ryder Cup captain.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
Pavin and his team are really going to have to work hard to top what Paul Azinger and the U.S. team did this year.
13/12/2008 06:03
Dear Valued Buyer,
"My commitment to you is offering great service, paying attention to detail, and placing your needs above all else on these two excellent Morinville homes."
Selling or buying a home can be a very stressful and emotional time. As your REALTOR®, you will enjoy the buying or selling experience and be comforted that I am working for you.
Please allow me, Peter Müller, to take care of your real estate needs. Whether it is to talk about how the market is affecting your home, giving you a FREE home evaluation, or by allowing me to SELL or FIND you a home at the best price possible. When you’re ready to look for that perfect house, allow me to assist you to make it your home.
Call me at 780-458-8300. Cell 780-996-0208 or e-mail me at peter@makeityourhome.ca or visit my web site.
Lightning Investigate Withholding Melrose’s Contract
13/12/2008 06:03
Sources tell TSN the Tampa Bay Lightning are investigating legal grounds for withholding the remainder of Barry Melrose's contract with the team.
Melrose's assessment of rookie forward Steven Stamkos is the basis for the investigation.
The recently fired Lightning head coach said, "Steven is not ready for the NHL," as part of an interview on a Toronto morning radio show.
Stamkos has been a key component in Tampa's marketing campaign since the Lightning drafted the 18-year-old forward first overall in last summers NHL Entry Draft and according to sources, the Lightning fear Melrose's comment may hinder Stamkos's marketing impact.
The dispute remains in the discussion stage and the team has not filed for breach of contract with the National Hockey League.
Lightning players respond to Melrose’s critique.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
Oh brother, what next, folks? Poor Stamkos got his feelings hurt and Melrose’s comments may hinder his marketing impact? C'mon! Not that I have any great love for Barry Melrose, but anything to get out of paying a contract. The Lightning agreed to it, they signed it, now they should honor it.
John Daly Dodges Sanction
13/12/2008 06:03
John Daly won't be sanctioned by Australian Open organizers after smashing a spectator's camera into a tree during the first round of the golf tournament yesterday.
Daly, who shot a 6-over-par opening-round 78 at Royal Sydney, lost his temper when the fan, Brad Clegg, tried to take his picture from close range after his final tee shot landed among trees.
Daly snatched the camera and hurled it into the trunk of a tree, according to a report. An official said Clegg had breached the conditions of entry for the Sydney tournament, which prohibit spectators from carrying cell phones or cameras.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
The unfortunate downward spiral of professional golfer Big John Daly continues.
Twins’ Morneau Captures Second Tip O’Neill Award
13/12/2008 06:03
ST. MARYS, Ont. - Minnesota Twins first baseman Justin Morneau was named winner of the Tip O'Neill Award on Friday, an honor handed out by the Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame to the country's top player.
The first baseman from New Westminster, B.C., is the fourth multiple winner of the honor, joining Larry Walker (nine), Jason Bay (two) and Eric Gagne (two), and bags it for the second time in three years.
"I've got a long way to go to match Larry - he's a Hall of Famer in my books," said Morneau. "But any time you want to mention my name in the same sentence as his, that's cool with me."
Morneau also finished second to Dustin Pedroia in voting for American League MVP after batting .300 with 23 home runs, 47 doubles and 129 RBIs.
He helped bring a Twins team expected to fall off within a tiebreaker loss of the AL Central title.
Morneau also became the first Canadian to win the home run derby and scored the winning run at the all-star game.
Other top vote-getters for the award were Ryan Dempster, Bay, Joey Votto, Rich Harden, Russell Martin and women's national team MVP Ashley Stephenson.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
Congrats to Morneau. He’s a good ball player.
Campaign To Encourage Youths To Pull Up Pants
12/12/2008 04:17
Seeks to end
sagging
trend
Arguing that the sagging-pants fashion trend promotes an unhealthful lifestyle of gangs, crime and violence, they've launched the Pull Up Your Pants education campaign, designed to persuade young people to abandon the look -- especially pants often worn so low that their underwear, or more, is exposed.
They already have the support of one Louisville Metro Council member, who plans to introduce a resolution in support of their campaign next month.
While the sagging-pants look has been popularized in the rap culture, Councilwoman Judy Green, D-1st District, said the trend has a history in slavery, when masters wouldn't allow males to wear belts as a way to degrade them.
She said it's also common in prison populations because prisoners are not allowed to wear belts, which can be used as weapons.
Crack the details here.
SINC SAYS:
I understand they will be campaigning against plumbers next.
Arguing that the sagging-pants fashion trend promotes an unhealthful lifestyle of gangs, crime and violence, they've launched the Pull Up Your Pants education campaign, designed to persuade young people to abandon the look -- especially pants often worn so low that their underwear, or more, is exposed.
They already have the support of one Louisville Metro Council member, who plans to introduce a resolution in support of their campaign next month.
While the sagging-pants look has been popularized in the rap culture, Councilwoman Judy Green, D-1st District, said the trend has a history in slavery, when masters wouldn't allow males to wear belts as a way to degrade them.
She said it's also common in prison populations because prisoners are not allowed to wear belts, which can be used as weapons.
Crack the details here.
SINC SAYS:
I understand they will be campaigning against plumbers next.
GREAT HOLIDAY EATING TIPS . . .
12/12/2008 04:10
1. Avoid carrot
sticks. Anyone who puts carrots on a holiday
buffet table knows nothing of the Christmas
spirit. In fact, if you see carrots, leave
immediately. Go next door, where they're
serving rum balls.
2. Drink as much eggnog as you can. And quickly. It's rare.. You cannot find it any other time of year but now. So drink up! Who cares that it has 10,000 calories in every sip? It's not as if you're going to turn into an eggnog-alcoholic or something. It's a treat. Enjoy it. Have one for me. Have two. It's later than you think. It's Christmas!
3. if something comes with gravy, use it. That's the whole point of gravy. Gravy does not stand alone. Pour it on. Make a volcano out of your mashed potatoes. Fill it with gravy. Eat the volcano. Repeat.
4. as for mashed potatoes, always ask if they're made with skim milk or whole milk. If it's skim, pass. Why bother? It's like buying a sports car with an automatic transmission.
5. Do not have a snack before going to a party in an effort to control your eating. The whole point of going to a Christmas party is to eat other people's food for free. Lots of it. Hello?
6. Under no circumstances should you exercise between now and New Year's. You can do that in January when you have nothing else to do. This is the time for long naps, which you'll need after circling the buffet table while carrying a 10-pound plate of food and that vat of eggnog.
7. If you come across something really good at a buffet table, like frosted Christmas cookies in the shape and size of Santa, position yourself near them and don't budge. Have as many as you can before becoming the center of attention. They're like a beautiful pair of shoes. If you leave them behind, you're never going to see them again.
8. Same for pies. Apple, Pumpkin, Mincemeat. Have a slice of each. Or if you don't like mincemeat, have two apples and one pumpkin. Always have three. When else do you get to have more than one dessert? Labor Day?
9. Did someone mention fruitcake? Granted, it's loaded with the mandatory celebratory calories, but avoid it at all cost. I mean, have some standards.
10. One final tip: If you don't feel terrible when you leave the party or get up from the table, you haven't been paying attention. Re-read tips; start over, but hurry, January is just around the corner. Remember this motto to live by:
"Life should NOT be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in an attractive and well preserved body, but rather to skid in sideways, chocolate in one hand, body thoroughly used up, totally worn out and screaming "WOO HOO what a ride!"
Have a great holiday season!!
SINC SAYS:
This great little item comes to us courtesy of long time friend Linda Bolger. Thanks Linda!
HOW SMART IS YOUR RIGHT FOOT?
12/12/2008 04:10
You have to try this.
You have to try this please, it takes two seconds.
I could not believe it. This will boggle your mind and you will keep trying over and over again to see if you can outsmart your foot, but, you can't.
It's pre-programmed in your brain!
1. Without anyone watching you (they will think you are GOOFY) and while sitting at your desk in front of your computer, lift your right foot off the floor and make clockwise circles.
2. Now, while doing this, draw the number '6' in the air with your right hand.
Your foot will change direction.
I told you so!!! And there's nothing you can do about it! You and I both know how stupid it is, but before the day is done you are going to try it again, if you've not already done so.
Living In A Lego Wonderland
12/12/2008 04:10
Family build
Christmas-themed church ... with 250,000
bricksA family of Lego addicts with a collection of half a million bricks have revealed their latest festive model - a giant 250,000 piece Christmas church worth £10,000.
The Addis family took seven painstaking weeks to piece together the 7ft-high and 5ft-wide 100kg replica which now takes pride of place in their lounge.
Mike Addis, 50, and wife Catherine Weightman, 45, both Lego fanatics since childhood, each spent 170 hours building their pride and joy piece by piece.
Secondary school economics teacher Mr Addis based the design on All Saints Church in Earls Barton, Northamptonshire, a church he visited in his childhood.
It is the latest festive offering from the self-confessed Lego nuts who have built a giant Christmas-themed model every year for the last 16 years.
Mr Addis spent a full ten-hour day planning the giant model before the first Lego brick was laid on October 13.
The model was finally topped off 48 days later on December 1 thanks to the gargantuan effort by Mike, Catherine, who works for Natural England, and children Thomas, 17, Holly, 13, and Christopher, 11.
More pictures here.
SINC SAYS:
This story is especially for St. Albert’s Place resident Lego fan. Enjoy!
Can Ferbey Put It All Together At Canada Cup Qualifier?
12/12/2008 04:10
Stats ‘outstanding,’ but no titles this season leaves a sour taste
EDMONTON - Randy Ferbey is in a happy place, or at least as joyful a position as a self-described, soon-to-be 50-year-old grump can be.
But he delightfully remains as straightforward a shooter as there is when the topic of curling comes up in conversation.
The wily Edmonton-based skip, and his rink of last-rock thrower Dave Nedohin, second Scott Pfeifer and lead Marcel Rocque, amazingly has not won a bonspiel this season.
Oh, they've been close, but as they say, close only counts in horseshoes and hand grenades, and Ferbey isn't into tossing either. He'll stick to the curling stones, thanks.
"I'd be lying if I said it isn't in the back of your mind. Of course it is," he said Wednesday about being winless heading into today's start of the Canada Cup Qualifier at the Saville Sports Centre.
More from the Edmonton Journal.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
The Canada Cup Qualifier that goes from 5:00 p.m. yesterday through Monday at 6:00 p.m. at the Saville Sports Centre, 6501-115th Street in Edmonton, should be a great event. Tickets are $15 daily or $49 for a full-event pass and can be purchased at the Saville Centre.
Four semi-finalists advance directly to the Canada Cup of Curling (March 18-22, 2009, in Yorkton, Sask.), joining defending Canada Cup champion Kevin Koe, 2008 Tim Hortons Brier winner Kevin Martin and 2008 Player's Champion Glenn Howard. The remaining three invitations will be offered to the top teams on the Canadian Team Ranking System (CTRS) from Sept. 1 to Dec. 16, 2008 not already qualified.
Daly Smashes Spectator's Camera At Aussie Open
12/12/2008 04:10
SYDNEY, Australia - John Daly smashed a spectator's camera into a tree while shooting a 6-over 78 in the first round of the Australian Open on Thursday, making it likely he will miss the cut for the third consecutive week Down Under.
PGA Tour regular Mathew Goggin and fellow Australians Stephen Dartnall and Ewan Porter shot course record-tying rounds of seven-under 65 to share the lead after the opening day of the tournament.
After pushing his tee shot wide on the ninth hole - his last - Daly walked into a clump of trees, where spectator Brad Clegg tried to take a picture at close range.
Daly reportedly snatched the camera and smashed it against the nearest tree, telling the man, "You want it back, I'll buy you a new one".
Daly released a statement via tournament organizers saying Clegg got too close.
"I was looking to take a drop and a camera was six inches away from my face. If I was 10 under, I would have felt the same," Daly said. "My eyes are still burning from the flash of the camera.
"I feel it was very rude to put a camera that close to somebody's face in any situation. The guy that had the camera had already taken a dozen shots at close range."
Asked if he would seek compensation, Clegg told the Australian Associated Press: "I don't think I'll be chasing him for the money. He's a big bloke!"
More from Canadian Press.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
Just another chapter in the continuing downward spiral of Big John Daly. I can actually see Daly’s point on this one, folks. However, it’s still not the way to conduct yourself as a professional athlete.
Avery’s Fate With Stars Unknown, Is Hull Out?
12/12/2008 04:10
Sean Avery's fate in Dallas remains in limbo after the suspended forward met with members of the Stars' management team and owner Tom Hicks on Wednesday afternoon.
"No comments until after the NHL's suspension ends," Hicks told TSN via email on Wednesday night.
Avery is currently serving a six-game suspension for making offensive remarks about ex-girlfriend Elisha Cuthbert, who is currently dating Calgary Flames defenceman Dion Phaneuf.
Avery's suspension runs through Dallas' game Saturday night at Nashville. He's eligible to return Tuesday against Phoenix.
Even when Avery returns, it's unlikely he will be back in the Stars' lineup. As it stands, there are three likely scenarios the Stars will take with him - suspend him without pay after the league's punishment ends, suspend him with pay and arrange for him to receive counseling or place him on waivers and arrange a buyout at the end of the season.
The latest developments come amidst speculation that the Stars could be heading for a front office upheaval.
According to a report in The Hockey News, Brett Hull may soon be done as co-general manager to take on another role within the organization and leave the hockey matters to Les Jackson.
The report adds that Hull, named to the post last November, has not been fulfilling his duties as GM by assessing the Star's minor-league prospects and hasn't made any scouting trips. However, Hull's fate in the front office may come back to his insistence of signing Avery to a four-year, $15 million deal this past summer.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
You heard it here first, folks - Sean Avery has played his last game with the Dallas Stars and co-General Manager Brett Hull will be fired or demoted.
12/12/2008 04:10
Dear Valued Buyer,
"My commitment to you is offering great service, paying attention to detail, and placing your needs above all else on these two excellent Morinville homes."
Selling or buying a home can be a very stressful and emotional time. As your REALTOR®, you will enjoy the buying or selling experience and be comforted that I am working for you.
Please allow me, Peter Müller, to take care of your real estate needs. Whether it is to talk about how the market is affecting your home, giving you a FREE home evaluation, or by allowing me to SELL or FIND you a home at the best price possible. When you’re ready to look for that perfect house, allow me to assist you to make it your home.
Call me at 780-458-8300. Cell 780-996-0208 or e-mail me at peter@makeityourhome.ca or visit my web site.
TSN Announces 2008/9 Curling Broadcast Schedule
12/12/2008 04:10
TSN will be rocking and rolling all winter long with more curling coverage than ever before.
For the first time ever, TSN will have exclusive Canadian coverage of all Season of Champions events for the 2008-09 season beginning with the 2008 Continental Cup of Curling on December 18th.
In addition TSN's multi-year broadcast deal with the Canadian Curling Association will feature all draws, including playoffs and finals from the 2009 Tim Horton's Brier and the 2009 Scotties Tournament of Hearts.
Other events on the broadcast calendar include the 2009 M&M Meat Shops Canadian Juniors, the 2009 Canada Cup of Curling, 2009 World Women's Curling Championship and all of Canada's draws throughout the 2009 Ford World Men's Curling Championship along with full playoff coverage.
"Curling has been a part of TSN's lineup since the network launched almost 25 years ago," said Phil King, President, TSN. "We're proud to be the exclusive home of Season of Champions curling in Canada and we're looking forward to working with the Canadian Curling Association to continue to grow the sport with expanded coverage on TSN."
More from TSN.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
Now that’s why Vic Rauter calls it (TSN's coverage), “Canada’s most comprehensive curling coverage.”
Giants Refuse To Pay Signing Bonus To Burress
12/12/2008 04:10
EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. - The New York Giants have refused to pay suspended receiver Plaxico Burress a US$1-million portion of a signing bonus from a contract signed in September.
NFL Players Association union spokesman Carl Francis confirmed Wednesday evening that the Super Bowl champions decided to not make the payment, which was due Wednesday.
"We will file a claim in the appropriate forum to enforce his right to receive and keep the moneys entitled to him under his player contract," Francis said in an e-mail.
Giants general manager Jerry Reese waved his hands earlier in the day when asked whether the team would make the payment.
The union on Tuesday filed a grievance challenging the Giants' decision to suspend and fine Burress last week, just days after the Super Bowl hero accidentally shot himself in a Manhattan nightclub on Nov. 29.
The union said the team violated the collective bargaining agreement placing Burress on the reserve-non football injury list, suspending him for the final four games of the regular season and fining him an additional week's salary for conduct detrimental to the team.
Placing Burress on the non-football injury list also will keep him out of the playoffs. The Giants (11-2) won the NFC East title last Sunday.
The grievances will be heard by an arbitrator after the season ends.
More from Canadian Press.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
Well, National Football League Players' Association, I guess it’s your move.
Sakic Loses To Snow Blower - Will Miss Three Months
12/12/2008 04:10
The Colorado Avalanche will be without captain Joe Sakic for longer than they originally expected.
The team announced Wednesday, that Sakic will miss approximately three months after undergoing surgery on Tuesday night to repair three broken fingers and tendon damage.
Sakic, who was slated to miss up to six weeks as he recovered from his herniated disc in his back, injured his hand at home in an incident that involved a snow blower.
"Joe's surgery was performed by a hand specialist," said Avalanche Team Doctor Andy Parker. "The procedure went well and he's expected to make a full recovery."
Avalanche head coach Tony Granato was able to find humor in the situation.
"When accidents happen, you always wonder, 'Why did I put myself in that situation?'" Granato told the Denver Press. "The most important thing, like I said, is he's fortunate the surgery went well and in a few months, he'll be back to normal."
Sakic is actually fortunate that the injury was not worse. Reportedly the future Hall of Famer was attempting to dislodge some wet snow from around the blades. While the blower was off, when the snow was cleared the torque from the blades jammed his hand.
More from TSN.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
Sakic is very lucky he didn’t lose the hand. Snow blowers and lawn mowers are not machines you fool around with and win - not very often, anyhow.
Dealing With A Family Tragedy
11/12/2008 04:03
Don,
Through reflection I have come to realize why it may be that I feel so passionate about the nameless foster child who died on 27th January 2007 in Edmonton. I will attempt to convey my thoughts here:
This sad death of a young life followed our beloved girl by a single month. He was a boy who might have been anyone's child. A little boy who came into the world and left it all too suddenly with grave issues surrounding him. Many of which, we may never gain insight into. The only difference between he and my child are the reasons they entered contract of Ministry care.
While I do not pretend to have knowledge of the circumstances which prompted Ministry involvement for the boy, our little girl was receiving services for disability alone ... nothing more, no protection issues whatsoever, none.
From here, both children are now equal: They have been deemed recipients of care under Government guidance for exceptional, albeit, distinctly different needs and from there, both were tragically failed. While the boy may not have anyone to speak on his behalf:
Perhaps the natural family is unaware? Perhaps they, too, are 'gagged' by a publication ban? Perhaps they do not have the education or stability to adequately convey their thoughts? At worst, the inconceivable, perhaps they do not care?
Those issues matter little in a larger scheme because the end result is the same: He was a little child, with much potential to thrive, just like my own and whose life was hopelessly stolen. Now, my voice need be far-reaching beyond my daughter and take cause towards those who harm innocent victims without voice. I take issue that the children are reduced a nameless beings - if no one else does - I do care. As an writer of unknown origin states:
"Tell me why you bother, why waste your time this way. He's only one of millions, does it matter anyway?" And she said, "It matters to this one, he deserves a chance to grow. It matters to this one, I can't save them all I know. But it matters to this one, I'll help him be what he can be. It matters to this one, and it matters to me."
Two years after the fact - two separate children's deaths under Ministry direction - we remain under a clouded veil of mystery guised as 'protection' of child and family. I also take slight with a Ministry who has chosen to amend policy and convey that it is done on behalf of a little boy when, in fact, as MLA Rachel Notely pointed out: Terms of reference of special case review do not correlate. Recommendations posed by our family have been utilized and do not acknowledge our child, nor our plight to enlighten of need for better protective practice on behalf of all children - especially with disability, but certainly including those without - who enter into Government contract. The little boy also is wronged because he is being utilized as a scapegoat ... a nameless being who could not protect himself in life, nor take arms against deceit in death!
As per Harry Chase's commentary regards to perceived unimportance of amendment in law towards a publication ban: "It isn't going to provide any resolution to the parents of that child." Let me, please, clarify: As a mother affected by the death of her own child, certainly there is closure and resolution in lifting the ban of silence.
This stems, not from malice, nor retaliation, but serves separate and distinct purposes twofold: The potential to better protect children: Would the public not want to know the history of a person to whom they entrust their child's care? Perhaps those whose paid duty it is to offer care to children may realize that they will not be protected should they cause harm and perhaps this may serve as deterrent where it will be less likely that circumstances arise in which perpetration exists!
Additionally, publicizing the name of a child who has perished offers honour towards the importance of an individual's life. By withholding names, distraction of truth and justice furthers the trauma inflicted upon those left behind who are not permitted to remember their child openly and lovingly as a valued member who lived and breathed during his/her time on earth.
Where there is truth, silence need not exist!
Thank you for allowing revelation to exist in journalism - as much as possible given the constraints - under guise of 'protection'.
Anonymous, (but not by choice!)
SINC SAYS:
It is indeed a sad state of affairs when government hides the truth. Thank you for speaking up and our sympathies for the loss of your child.
Through reflection I have come to realize why it may be that I feel so passionate about the nameless foster child who died on 27th January 2007 in Edmonton. I will attempt to convey my thoughts here:
This sad death of a young life followed our beloved girl by a single month. He was a boy who might have been anyone's child. A little boy who came into the world and left it all too suddenly with grave issues surrounding him. Many of which, we may never gain insight into. The only difference between he and my child are the reasons they entered contract of Ministry care.
While I do not pretend to have knowledge of the circumstances which prompted Ministry involvement for the boy, our little girl was receiving services for disability alone ... nothing more, no protection issues whatsoever, none.
From here, both children are now equal: They have been deemed recipients of care under Government guidance for exceptional, albeit, distinctly different needs and from there, both were tragically failed. While the boy may not have anyone to speak on his behalf:
Perhaps the natural family is unaware? Perhaps they, too, are 'gagged' by a publication ban? Perhaps they do not have the education or stability to adequately convey their thoughts? At worst, the inconceivable, perhaps they do not care?
Those issues matter little in a larger scheme because the end result is the same: He was a little child, with much potential to thrive, just like my own and whose life was hopelessly stolen. Now, my voice need be far-reaching beyond my daughter and take cause towards those who harm innocent victims without voice. I take issue that the children are reduced a nameless beings - if no one else does - I do care. As an writer of unknown origin states:
"Tell me why you bother, why waste your time this way. He's only one of millions, does it matter anyway?" And she said, "It matters to this one, he deserves a chance to grow. It matters to this one, I can't save them all I know. But it matters to this one, I'll help him be what he can be. It matters to this one, and it matters to me."
Two years after the fact - two separate children's deaths under Ministry direction - we remain under a clouded veil of mystery guised as 'protection' of child and family. I also take slight with a Ministry who has chosen to amend policy and convey that it is done on behalf of a little boy when, in fact, as MLA Rachel Notely pointed out: Terms of reference of special case review do not correlate. Recommendations posed by our family have been utilized and do not acknowledge our child, nor our plight to enlighten of need for better protective practice on behalf of all children - especially with disability, but certainly including those without - who enter into Government contract. The little boy also is wronged because he is being utilized as a scapegoat ... a nameless being who could not protect himself in life, nor take arms against deceit in death!
As per Harry Chase's commentary regards to perceived unimportance of amendment in law towards a publication ban: "It isn't going to provide any resolution to the parents of that child." Let me, please, clarify: As a mother affected by the death of her own child, certainly there is closure and resolution in lifting the ban of silence.
This stems, not from malice, nor retaliation, but serves separate and distinct purposes twofold: The potential to better protect children: Would the public not want to know the history of a person to whom they entrust their child's care? Perhaps those whose paid duty it is to offer care to children may realize that they will not be protected should they cause harm and perhaps this may serve as deterrent where it will be less likely that circumstances arise in which perpetration exists!
Additionally, publicizing the name of a child who has perished offers honour towards the importance of an individual's life. By withholding names, distraction of truth and justice furthers the trauma inflicted upon those left behind who are not permitted to remember their child openly and lovingly as a valued member who lived and breathed during his/her time on earth.
Where there is truth, silence need not exist!
Thank you for allowing revelation to exist in journalism - as much as possible given the constraints - under guise of 'protection'.
Anonymous, (but not by choice!)
SINC SAYS:
It is indeed a sad state of affairs when government hides the truth. Thank you for speaking up and our sympathies for the loss of your child.
Pluto’s Christmas Tree
11/12/2008 04:03
Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer Controversy
11/12/2008 04:03
NEW HANOVER COUNTY,
NC (WECT) - A caroling controversy involving a
well known reindeer and a local school is
getting national
attention.Fox News is giving viewers across the nation a glimpse into what is being called, "A War on Christmas."
It began when a parent was upset her child was told to sing "Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer." The parent is concerned the words "Christmas" and "Santa" hold religious meaning.
This complaint prompted the Murrayville principal to pull the song from the school's holiday concert.
After the New Hanover County school administration and lawyers caught word of parent complaints, they determined the song was secular - Santa and his reindeer are non-religious figures.
"Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer" is back in the line-up for the holiday show.
The mother tried to have a Hanukkah song added to the holiday show, similar to other schools in the area, but was denied that request.
Her daughter will not participate in the concert, and school officials say that's okay since the performance is not mandatory.
As parents debate the issue, so do network newscasts and a long list of bloggers. Despite the background noise, children at Murrayville are ready to shout about Rudolph with glee.
SINC SAYS:
The war on Christmas indeed. When people immigrate to North America they should remember that old “when in Rome” saying.
6,000 Items Left On York Trains
11/12/2008 04:03
WHAT do a pair of
crutches, a bag stuffed full of £30,000 in cash
and a cat have in
common?
They are all on a list of unusual items found by a train operator after absent-minded passengers passing through York have left them behind on trains in the past year.
CrossCountry Trains has revealed the most unusual and interesting items that have been discovered on its trains during 2008.
As well as run-of-the-mill property left behind such as wallets, purses and shopping bags which are regularly found or handed into onboard staff, the lost property found is a treasure trove full of slightly more odd items.
So far this year staff have found a cat called Holly, more than £30,000 in used banknotes in a small green holdall, a pair of crutches, a wheelchair and an antique typewriter – just a few of some 6,000 items left on CrossCountry’s trains each year.
Andy Cooper, managing director for the train operator, said over the years, the onboard-staff have had to deal with a variety of bizarre items and this year has been no exception.
“People leave all sorts of items on trains and this year we have found some very unusual ones, including baby buggies, shoes, designer handbags, cricket bats and even a wedding dress.”
He said most of the items had been returned to its rightful owner, including little Holly, but said the cash remained a mystery. “Nobody came forward to claim that so it was passed on to police.”
Most of the thousands of items left behind each year remain the same though, with the top ten items being mobile phones, books, umbrellas, bags, Ipod and MP3 players, glasses, carrier bags and shopping, laptops, jewellery, wallets and purses.
SINC SAYS:
Wow, that’s a good sized chunk of cash. I think I will apply to be a cleaner on that train.
THAT'S A CRACKER!
11/12/2008 04:03
HAVE yourself a merry
little Christmas with these seasonal
side-splitters.This selection of festive gags is bound to make you the life and soul of any party.
We think Yule agree that these fantastic jokes –by everyone from today’s stars like Jimmy Carr to such comedy legends as Les Dawson – are classic Christmas crackers.
“A dog is for life, not just for Christmas. So be careful at the office Christmas party.”
Jimmy Carr
“The one thing women don’t want to find in their stockings on Christmas morning is their husband.”
Joan Rivers
“If your pudding is loaded with coins and thimbles then be sure to tell your guests. One year I forgot to mention it and our Vera ended up in casualty. They found a watch, two holy medals and £2.10s.6d in used change in her stomach.”
Lily Savage
“I once bought my kids batteries for Christmas with a note saying, toys not included.”
Bernard Manning
“I was so poor growing up, if I hadn’t been a boy I’d have had nothing to play with on Christmas Day.”
Rodney Dangerfield
“If God had meant Christmas to be a family occasion He wouldn’t have invented TV, would He?”
Rory McGrath
“Do you do this with Christmas tree lights? You have a string of them and one bulb is dead and you flick the bulb with your finger to get it to light up? They do the same thing with George Bush before a debate.”
Jay Leno
“I saw a guy driving down Hollywood Boulevard with a tree on his bumper and I said: ‘Getting ready for Christmas?’ He said: ‘No, teaching the wife how to drive.’”
Bob Hope
“The Three Wise Men sound very generous, but you’ve got to remember those gifts were joint Christmas and birthday presents.”
Jimmy Carr
“The wife of a man who never learned the difference between a brassiere and a brazier was granted a divorce today on two counts. First because when she wanted underwear for Christmas he gave her two big rusty tins with holes in and second because of the way he kept trying to roast his chestnuts.”
Ronnie Barker
“We couldn’t afford a turkey for Christmas. We gave the budgie chest expanders.”
Les Dawson
“My sister got a set of perfumes called Ample. It was tiny. Even I could see where dad scraped off the S...”
Stephen K Amos
“At the office party you’re supposed to sit naked on top of the photocopier, not the shredder.”
David Letterman
“We’re approaching the moment when Grandad’s had too much to drink. We don’t call him Grandad, we call him Alcopops.”
Jimmy Carr
“Roses are reddish, violets are bluish, if it wasn’t for Christmas, we’d all be Jewish.”
Benny Hill
“Christmas is a time for remembering. So that’s me f***ed.”
Ozzy Osbourne
Albino Peacock Photos
11/12/2008 04:02
Here's something you
don't see every day, an albino peacock sent
along by a St. Albert's Place reader. And I
thought the coloured ones were beautiful.
Wow!
Golden Bear’s Big Opportunity Hits Home
11/12/2008 04:02
Simeon Rottier one of only two Canadians invited to East-West Shrine Game
EDMONTON -- With two final exams in front of him, Simeon Rottier may not want to think too much about the good news he received on Tuesday.
The six-foot-six, 286-pound offensive tackle from the University of Alberta Golden Bears football team was named as a participant in the East-West Shrine Game, taking place Jan. 17 in Houston.
The game pits more than 80 of the United States' top college football players against one another under the watchful eyes of pro scouts. Rottier and Laval defensive tackle Etienne Legare will be the only two Canadian Interuniversity Sport players in the game.
"I'm definitely excited to be going," said Rottier, who was named a first-team CIS All-Canadian this season.
"I was hoping that maybe I'd get a chance like that, but I wasn't necessarily expecting it. I was just trying to focus on the season. I'm pretty excited about the opportunity, for sure," he said.
More from the Edmonton Journal.
Rottier, Legare to suit up in East-West Shrine Game.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
I’d dearly love to see the Westlock and Spruce Grove product Rottier in green and gold next year, but the way the Eskimos frittered away their Canadian College Draft picks for the next two years on kickers this past season, there’s no chance of that happening - barring a trade with either Hamilton or Toronto.
Regina Could Be Latest Home To A Dome
11/12/2008 04:02
REGINA — The City of Regina is examining the possibility of building a domed facility to replace Mosaic Stadium.
Regina Mayor Pat Fiacco said Tuesday the city is looking into what it would cost to build a domed stadium, if the move would be financially practical and how it would be funded.
“We’re doing our due diligence and we’ll go from there,’’ Fiacco said Tuesday. “It has to be affordable but we all know that it takes a bit of an investment. Someone had the vision to build Mosaic Stadium or Taylor Field at the time. For obvious reasons, we have to make sure that we take care of the next 50 years.’’
Fiacco said it was too early to speculate on the costs, size or site of the new facility. He said the city would like to build the facility close to where Mosaic Stadium is currently located.
More from the Regina Leader-Post.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
A domed stadium in Regina? That’s more than laughable. I mean that’s ripe. Surely they jest! I think the Regina city fathers were probably reading something that said, “Regina’s stadium is doomed.” Ya think?
Lennox Lewis Tops 2009 Boxing HOF List
11/12/2008 04:02
CANASTOTA, N.Y. - Three-time heavyweight champion Lennox Lewis says he's proud that enshrinement in the International Boxing Hall of Fame will secure his place in the sport's history.
"Everybody, when they start something ... always wants to leave some kind of legacy behind," said Lewis. "I've been able to accomplish that.
"To be put in the Hall of Fame is an accomplishment that seals my legacy. It will always be there in history. People can read about it. It gives me great pride,"
Lewis, who was raised in Kitchener, Ont., and won Olympic boxing gold for Canada in 1988, headlined the 2009 induction class announced Tuesday. He will enter in the modern era category, along with American bantamweight champion Orlando Canizales and South African junior lightweight champion Brian Mitchell.
Posthumous honourees included middleweight champion William (Gorilla) Jones, welterweight champion (Mysterious) Billy Smith and middleweight champion Billy Soose in the Old-Timer Category. Nineteenth-century American heavyweight champion Tom Hyer was recognized in the Pioneer Category.
Inductees were voted in by members of the Boxing Writers Association and a panel of international boxing historians. The induction ceremony will be held June 14.
Lewis, 43, retired in 2003 with a record of 41-2-1, including 32 knockouts. He will enter the hall in his first year of eligibility.
"He definitely belongs in the top six heavyweights of all-time and would have been a threat to any heavyweight champion in history because of his size, his balance and his all-around skill," said Hall of Fame trainer Emanuel Steward, a 1996 inductee. "Lennox Lewis could do whatever he had to do to win a fight.
"He was a very diversified heavyweight champion."
More from Canadian Press.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
This is a very well-deserved honor. Lewis was one helluva fighter and one helluva Heavyweight Champion of the World. He ranks in SWIVEL HIPS’ top ten heavyweight champions of all-time alongside Muhammad Ali, Joe Louis, George Foreman, Rocky Marciano, Larry Holmes, Joe Frazier, Evander Holyfield, Mike Tyson and Jack Dempsey. I’d rank Lewis seventh of all-time, just ahead of Evander "The Real Deal" Holyfield.
11/12/2008 04:02
Dear Valued Buyer,
"My commitment to you is offering great service, paying attention to detail, and placing your needs above all else on these two excellent Morinville homes."
Selling or buying a home can be a very stressful and emotional time. As your REALTOR®, you will enjoy the buying or selling experience and be comforted that I am working for you.
Please allow me, Peter Müller, to take care of your real estate needs. Whether it is to talk about how the market is affecting your home, giving you a FREE home evaluation, or by allowing me to SELL or FIND you a home at the best price possible. When you’re ready to look for that perfect house, allow me to assist you to make it your home.
Call me at 780-458-8300. Cell 780-996-0208 or e-mail me at peter@makeityourhome.ca or visit my web site.
NFLPA Grieves Burress Suspension And Fine
11/12/2008 04:02
EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. - The NFL Players Association filed a grievance Tuesday challenging the suspension and fine given to Plaxico Burress by the New York Giants after the receiver accidentally shot himself in a nightclub more than a week ago.
The union said the team violated the collective bargaining agreement last week when it placed Burress on the reserve-non football injury list, suspended him for the final four games of the regular season and fined him an additional week's salary for conduct detrimental to the team.
Placing Burress on the non-football injury list also will keep him out of the playoffs. The Giants (11-2) won the NFC East title on Sunday.
Union spokesman Carl Francis said the grievance will be heard by an arbitrator after the season ends.
Under the contract that Burress signed in September, the Giants owe the Super Bowl star US$1 million of his signing bonus Wednesday. Team spokesman Pat Hanlon had no comment on either the grievance and whether the team would pay the signing bonus.
Francis said the union would consider another grievance if the Giants withheld the payment.
More from Canadian Press.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
Typical union – sticking up for a guy that, by his own record and admission, is obviously a very bad actor. This is the kind of stuff that gives unions a bad name. And, the last time I looked, wasn’t carrying an unregistered, concealed weapon a felony in the State of New York?
Lightning Co-Owner Puts Melrose (In) Place
11/12/2008 04:02
Len Barrie fires back at ex-Tampa Bay coach after tirade on Toronto talk-radio station
VICTORIA - Former Tampa Bay Lightning head coach Barry Melrose, fired after just 16 games this NHL season, unloaded on Toronto radio Tuesday morning.
Lightning co-owner Len Barrie responded in kind when contacted later in the day.
Barrie said he was baffled by Melrose's assertions that "the guys in charge" were meddling in on-ice strategy decisions. Melrose did not mention particular names.
"The team had quit on him (Melrose)," said Barrie, speaking from his Victoria office.
"The only NHL coach to lose a team more quickly (in the dressing room) was Bill LaForge (who lasted 22 games with the Vancouver Canucks at the beginning of the 1983-84 NHL season)."
Melrose has a different take.
More from Canwest News Service.
Fired coach Melrose sounds off on Lightning, Stamkos.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
I couldn’t stand Melrose when he coached the Los Angeles Kings in the late 1980s and early 1990s when Wayne Gretzky was a player there. I didn’t really think he was a very good or classy coach. As my old dad used to say, "He has as much class as a Klick sandwich."
Kyle Petty Comes To Terms With End Of Era
11/12/2008 04:02
Kyle Petty says a NASCAR series without Petty Enterprises is like Major League Baseball without the New York Yankees.
Petty was reacting to reports that the team his grandfather founded almost 60 years ago would likely not be around to start the 2009 Sprint Cup season, especially if reports of a merger with Gillett Evernham Motorsports are true.
GEM is reportedly negotiating to merge one of Petty Enterprises cars into its own operation, giving it a four car team next season.
"From a historic standpoint, if you start the season without a Petty Enterprises... it's almost akin to not having the (Green Bay) Packers show up for an NFL season next year or not having the (New York) Yankees show up," Petty tells NASCAR Scene.
"They're a mainstay in the sport."
Petty Enterprises, founded by Lee Petty in 1949, is NASCAR's oldest and winningest organization with 268 Cup wins and 10 driver championships. However, Petty acknowledges that the team has not been a factor to win races over the last decade.
Petty's father, the "King" Richard Petty, sold controlling interest in the NASCAR team to investment firm Boston Ventures earlier this year. At the time, the private equity firm said it would provide capital and management support to improve the performance of the race team.
Kyle Petty, who is not a member of the team's board of directors, believes Boston Ventures bit off more than they could chew.
More from TSN.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
This is almost as sad as the day Kyle’s dad, the legendary ‘King’ Richard Petty, No. 43, hung up his racing helmet.
Edmonton Humane Society One Thing . . . BUT . . .
10/12/2008 06:42
Don,
I agree to a certain extent regarding the Edmonton Humane Society vs the complaints from St. Albert pet businesses but when all is said and done, their complaints should be about a 1 on a 1-10 scale compared to the many health/exercise facitlities that have to compete with $ervu$ Place which gets HUGE and unending funding from all tax payers and businesses in direct competition.
The "competitive" part of the Edmonton Humane Society is very small compared to the other services offered which are badly needed and I doubt if anyone happy with their existing services would change for the sake of change.
Haven't written lately because I've been so outraged about the political situation I couldn't even discuss it sensibly - sure got on a letter writing spree to all the political parties (for all the good it did). Guess time will tell.
Cheers,
Shirley Allen
St. Albert
SINC SAYS:
Of course you’re right about $ervu$ Place Shirley, but we aren’t allowed to talk about that. You see council has deemed it a must that the poor are continually taxed for the pleasure of the rich who use the facility.
More Response Re: Edmonton Humane Society
10/12/2008 06:42
Hey Don,
I felt it should be mentioned that Roseanna is an employee of Makin' Trax NOT the owner. There have been several 'blasts' throughout the internet on this subject from Roseanna Gullekson and Cam MacKay (another daycare owner) yet not one from the actual owner.
I have to say I find that odd. Is the owner smarter than that? Or does she have faith in her business and Roseanna Gullekson (the employee) does not.
Roseanna Gullekson also mentioned in one of her many her passive statements that $22 million is "pretty expensive for six kennels". Oh my; Kim is so right! A bit of 'fact checking' may be in order. $300.00 a month should warrant a tour shouldn't it?
Seek the truth. And if Makin' Trax is such long time supporter of the Society, why has the link to the Society NEVER been on their web site? (as many others who have claimed to be 'supporters') That doesn't scream support to me.
I suppose the bridge has been burned; nay, totalled now and it won't matter for Roseanna and Cam and whomever is the owner of Makin' Trax in the long run . . . foot in mouth!
Trish Sobie
St. Albert
SINC SAYS:
This has certainly turned into a hot issue, but it would be nice to hear from the Edmonton Humane Society themselves. I have offered them an opportunity for a response. Whether they choose to reply or not is another matter.
There Will Be No Nativity Scene In Ottawa This Year!
10/12/2008 06:42
The Supreme Court has
ruled that there cannot be a Nativity Scene in
Canada's capital this Christmas season.
This isn't for any religious reason, they simply have not been able to find Three Wise Men in the Nation's capitol, nor could they find a virgin.
P.S. There was no problem, however, finding enough asses to fill the stable.
Man Says Being Pet Santa A Messy Job
10/12/2008 06:42
MIAMI (UPI) -- A
Florida man says serving as Santa Claus for
pets of various species during the holiday
season is a very messy
job.Bob Hutchinson said while he has been dressing up as the Christmas character for five years to take part in the Key Largo School's Pets & Pina Coladas fundraiser, it is not always the ideal position, The Miami Herald said Monday.
''I've been peed on by dogs, pooped on by birds,'' Hutchinson said. "But pets still are way easier than kids.''
Hutchinson's position isn't made any better by the fact that nearly any animal can attend the annual holiday event and earn a spot on Santa's lap.
Event photographer told the Herald that during the event's 10-year history, he has seen a wide variety of animals take part in the holiday tradition.
"We've had chickens, frogs, iguanas, chameleons, rats, gerbils, rabbits, sugar gliders, tarantulas and even a skunk,'' Martinez told the newspaper. "Santa has no fear.''
SINC SAYS:
I’ve had a couple of “Santas” I know tell me some stories about their experinces with kids, and peeing in their laps is not a trick reserved just for pets.
Mayor Closes First Olympic Village Briefing To Public
10/12/2008 06:41
Vancouver's new mayor has scheduled a meeting on Friday to get to the bottom of the Olympic village controversy, but the public will not be welcome to hear the details — yet.
On Monday, at his first council meeting after being sworn in as mayor, Gregor Robertson said that after the new council is briefed on the deal by city staff at the private meeting at the end of the week, it will decide what information to release to the public and when.
"This is part of our work to look into those matters and start putting together the open council meeting within 30 days of today, to ensure the public's informed about the state of the project and the financing arrangements — just making sure we restore public confidence in the project," said Robertson.
All the details of the city's role in the $1-billion deal with Millennium Development to build the Olympics athletes' village on city-owned land have never been made public.
Robertson was elected mayor of Vancouver in November following publication of a news story that said the previous mayor and council had approved a secret $100-million bailout of the massive condominium development project on the shores of False Creek.
But during the civic election campaign it was revealed that Millennium's owner, New York-based hedge fund Fortress Investment Group, was struggling to finance the construction because of the global financial crisis.
Robertson promised that if he was elected mayor he would better inform the public about the city's role in the deal.
Robertson has also scheduled a news conference for Tuesday morning to release some details on his strategy to combat homelessness.
"Homeless is our top priority and we'll start announcing initial actions that we're going to take to get people off the street this winter," said Robertson.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
So, let me get this right. When Robertson is running for Mayor, he says that, if elected, he will better inform the public about the city’s role in the Olympic Village fiasco. Then, once he gets elected, Robertson closes the first meeting on the controversy to the public and says it’s up to Mayor and Council to decide what information to release to the public and when? Does that sound like another Mayor and Council you might know of, folks?
‘The Don’ Leaves Legacy Of Good Coaches
10/12/2008 06:41
"Color me toasted," Don Matthews had offered, with typical candor and color, as the most successful coach in CFL history sauntered back into retirement this fall.
No doubt the 69-year-old Matthews, who has more victories than any other coach in CFL history, won't be back on the sidelines ever again after his 2008 winless gig with the dreadful Toronto Argonauts.
But his influence remains profound in coaching circles, and nowhere is that influence felt more powerfully than among the candidates to replace Danny Maciocia as head coach of the Edmonton Eskimos.
The lineup of hopefuls is littered with men Matthews mentored somewhere along the line: Rick Campbell, Noel Thorpe, Chris Jones, Greg Marshall and even Doug Berry, who was the head man in Winnipeg the last three seasons.
The Matthews coaching tree may not be quite in the same category as that of the late Bill Walsh, he of the West Coast offence fame, but it remains impressive.
Over the years, Walsh's assistants included Mike Holmgren, Jim Fassel, Sam Wyche, George Seifert and Dennis Green. And, if you follow the connections, Walsh's influence is a veritable Who's Who of coaching in the current NFL.
Given time, The Don's Disciples may well begin to populate the head coaching ranks all over the place, as well. They're a capable bunch.
All would readily acknowledge the professional debt they owe to Matthews.
Rick Campbell, whose dad, Hugh, hired Matthews as a defensive assistant back in the late 1970s, sure does.
More from the Edmonton Journal.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
That’s one thing you can never take away from ‘The Don.’ He had this uncanny ability to surround himself with excellent assistant coaches. What’s that old saying, “Surround yourself with people who are better than you, because they make you look good . . .”
Concealed Guns: New Club Attire For NFL
10/12/2008 06:41
NFL players are justifiably fearful for their safety. They're targets.
It has been a year since home invaders murdered Washington Redskins safety Sean Taylor in his Miami bedroom. Since then, Jacksonville offensive lineman Richard Collier lost a leg and remains paralyzed after being shot 14 times in what police classified as a retaliatory incident. Oakland receiver Javon Walker was beaten senseless in a robbery while walking the Las Vegas streets. And last month, New York Giants receiver Steve Smith was robbed at gunpoint, allegedly by the limousine driver he paid to safely drive him home to his insulated suburban community.
Noted athletes are no different than the publicly anonymous. They enjoy every right of self-defense. But when will they realize that their strongest defense rests with what lies between their ears rather than what they're possibly packing in their pants?
If carrying a concealed handgun becomes part of the mandatory attire for attending a nightclub, then maybe that athlete should alter his late-night parameters for "having a good time."
That's the underlying lesson of New York Giants receiver Plaxico Burress' current legal difficulties.
Our collective freedoms come attached with individual responsibilities. A person has the right to own a gun if for no other juvenile rationalization than the idea that packing cold steel somehow accelerates a testosterone rush. But whatever their motivations, they must abide by gun-possession laws.
Burress faces two felony counts for illegal gun possession. The former Spartan accidently shot himself in the leg late Nov. 28 at a Manhattan nightclub with a gun he concealed in his pants that allegedly wasn't licensed in New York City. He's entitled to his rightful day in court, knowing that stupidity isn't a crime but negligence could earn him sufficient jail time if he's bound over for trial and eventually found guilty.
Burress' situation has become a political football.
More from the Detroit Free Press.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
I completely agree with Detroit Free Press reporter Drew Sharp when he says, “If carrying a concealed handgun becomes part of the mandatory attire for attending a nightclub, then maybe that athlete should alter his late-night parameters for ‘having a good time.”’
10/12/2008 06:41
Dear Valued Buyer,
"My commitment to you is offering great service, paying attention to detail, and placing your needs above all else on these two excellent Morinville homes."
Selling or buying a home can be a very stressful and emotional time. As your REALTOR®, you will enjoy the buying or selling experience and be comforted that I am working for you.
Please allow me, Peter Müller, to take care of your real estate needs. Whether it is to talk about how the market is affecting your home, giving you a FREE home evaluation, or by allowing me to SELL or FIND you a home at the best price possible. When you’re ready to look for that perfect house, allow me to assist you to make it your home.
Call me at 780-458-8300. Cell 780-996-0208 or e-mail me at peter@makeityourhome.ca or visit my web site.
Goodell Wants Players To Avoid Unsafe Situations
10/12/2008 06:41
CHARLOTTE, N.C. - NFL commissioner Roger Goodell has a simple mantra when it comes to players feeling the need to carry a gun: Avoid those situations.
"The real issue to me, is when the players feel they're unsafe, they shouldn't be there," Goodell said. "So get out, don't be there. If you feel the need to have a firearm to be someplace, you're in the wrong place."
Speaking before Monday night's game between the Carolina Panthers and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Goodell said the NFL has a strict gun policy but also must manage it against the constitutional right to bear arms. The questions arose in the aftermath of New York Giants receiver Plaxico Burress' accidental shooting in a New York City nightclub.
Burress was injured in the early morning hours of Nov. 29 when a .40-calibre Glock he was carrying in his waistband slipped down his leg, and as he grabbed at it, he accidentally pulled the trigger and shot himself in the thigh.
Giants teammate Antonio Pierce drove Burress to the hospital and spoke with police last Friday about the incident.
More from Canadian Press.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
I can’t help but agree with the Commish on this one.
NHL Governors Address Tough Economic Issues
10/12/2008 06:41
PALM BEACH, Fla. - There wasn't a single NHL owner who left the first day of the league's board of governors meeting in tears.
Given some of the things they heard on Monday, that was actually notable.
Two economists addressed team owners and executives at length about the state of the worldwide economy during the session, painting what deputy commissioner Bill Daly termed a "pretty dark" picture. The meeting began with an agenda that included a discussion about the salary cap but talk of the economy went on so long that it was pushed back to Tuesday's session.
In fact, the governors hardly ended up delving into the business of hockey at all.
"The discussion was even more global than North American or related to hockey," said Ottawa Senators president Roy Mlakar. "It's really what's going on in the world, even on how it's impacted on China, Japan, other countries. This wasn't just hockey-related today ... we have never been in this position in my twenty-who-knows-how-many years in the National Hockey League, we've never seen anything like this."
"And I give Gary (Bettman) and Bill (Daly) credit for having the foresight to know that we should have people who are experts in this industry come in and tell us what they think is going on, what the long-term forecasting is."
That one thing the economists couldn't really do is offer much of a solution - simply because there is no cure-all out there.
More from Canadian Press.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
It’s heartening to see that Gary Bettman is finally starting to get it.
Seve Released From Hospital After Brain Surgeries
10/12/2008 06:41
MADRID, Spain - Spanish golf great Seve Ballesteros was released from the hospital Tuesday, more than two months after undergoing brain surgery to remove a malignant tumor.
The 51-year-old Spaniard left the hospital Tuesday morning but will continue to be treated as an outpatient, Madrid's La Paz hospital said in a statement.
Ballesteros, one of Spain's best-known sports personalities, was admitted Oct. 6 after fainting at Madrid's international airport. He had several operations, including a 6 1/2-hour procedure on Oct. 24 to remove the brain tumor and reduce swelling around the brain.
A five-time major champion, Ballesteros is known for spectacular shots and fearless play. He retired in 2007, but has remained active in the sport, designing golf courses.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
It’s nice to see Ballesteros has finally been released from the hospital and we wish him all the best! The outpatient treatment they speak of is probably continuing chemotherapy and/or radiation. What's really frightening is to think that Seve and SWIVEL HIPS are the same age.
Edmonton Humane Society Letters Response
09/12/2008 05:16
Don;
I had the pleasure of reading both letters regarding the Edmonton Humane Society's new facility. I should mention up front that I also own a dog based business in St. Albert and will be adversely affected by having to compete with a business that pays no taxes and received government grants. Just a few of my thoughts.
In Winnipeg an animal shelter was built for $11 million, and in Calgary for around $9 million. In Edmonton, they are looking at a facility that is going to cost Edmonton taxpayers $7 to $8 million with a total price of $22.5 million. Why is the EHS animal shelter twice as expensive as the others? Why was a $22.5 million building never submitted for public tender?
How can a charity that is supposed to act on behalf of animals, and their treatment be actively involved in caring for animals at a profit and not become biased? Is this not a conflict of interest?
Charities have an extremely limited scope under which they can fund raise. Operating unrelated businesses with professional staff is prohibited under the income tax act. What assurances can the EHS offer that the charitable status will not be revoked by the Canada Revenue Agency? Again why would taxpayers desire to support a private business when the services they offer are already provided free by the private sector?
I would like to know how the Edmonton Humane Society proposes to operate unrelated businesses under a charitable banner without being subject to the same taxes any other business would be obligated to pay? I have been in contact with Canada Revenue Agency employees and we are both at a loss to understand. I guess the EHS is happy to roll the dice and see if their charitable status is revoked. As for Edmonton residents who donate, volunteer or adopt from this charity, they too deserve answers to some of these basic questions.
Just my two bits.
Cam MacKay BCOM
Owner Open Spaces Doggie Daycare
SINC SAYS:
Well folks, we've heard pretty much three sides to this story and every writer has put forth valid views and concerns. One is left to wonder though, just how will the EHS avoid becoming a for profit business? If they do, will their donations dry up? And can the "business" support the ongoing costs of operating such a huge, largely taxpayer funded facility?
Subject: Letter to the Editor
09/12/2008 05:12
That's the
Coalition's Frankenleader on the left
folks!Photo illustration by Rick Colville.
Let me see if I have this all straight.
The NDP had already hatched a plan for a bloodless coup d’etat prior to the economic statement by Mr. Flaherty.
It apparently didn’t matter that Canadians just voted and elected Mr. Harper. Mr. Layton doesn’t care that we just had a $300 million election.
Mr. Dion announced his intention to step down, but the coup will put him into the Prime Minister’s office even though he got the fewest votes of any Liberal since Confederation.
The Bloc Quebecois holds the balance of power and the key to government stability. Hang on, do I have this right? Mr. Duceppe is the defacto Prime Minister in this game of political monopoly?
So, to recap:
Mr. Harper won, but really lost the election. Mr. Layton lost, but actually won. Mr. Dion quit but is going to be Prime Minister. And Mr. Duceppe is laughing his backside off because he is the one who is really in charge of the stability of Canadian government while being committed to breaking up the country.
Hmmm. I just wanted to make sure I understood all of it. Welcome to our new banana republic – land of the political wing-nuts.
SINC SAYS:
Yep, that about sums it up folks. The truth always shines through.
Mom Says Computer Scrabble Game Swears
09/12/2008 05:12
LONDON, (UPI) -- A
British mother says she was shocked to discover
a Nintendo's Scrabble 2007 game's computer was
choosing to play swear words against her
8-year-old
son.Tonya Carrington says she was mortified when one of the first words the game's computer came up with against her son Ethan was "tits," defining it as an "informal word for female breasts," the British tabloid The Mail on Sunday reported.
But that was only the beginning, as the Scrabble game also elected employ an array of common swear words when tested by Carrington, 36, who is now warning parents to avoid the game.
"I bought it at ASDA in a two-for-$45 deal and the packaging said it was suitable for young children," she told the newspaper. "Scrabble is a game most families have around the house. I got it for Ethan on his DS (game system) to try to improve his vocabulary. But I've banned him from playing it because I don't want him to learn these sorts of words."
A Nintendo spokesman blamed the game's publishers, Ubisoft, for the problem, the Mail reported.
SINC SAYS:
Tits is a swear word? Then they had better add a whole bunch more to that swear dictionary like boobs, knockers, hooters, twins, bazookas, jugs, melons, puppies and rack to name but a few.
Japanese Commuters Told To Be Courteous
09/12/2008 05:11
Britain's train
passengers are routinely told to keep their
feet off the seats and turn down their MP3
players, but Japanese commuters have never had
to be reminded of such basic good manners.
Until now, that
is.Five years ago, it would have been unthinkable for passengers on Japan's crowded trains to witness a female office worker applying make-up on her way to work. But now, grooming in public is commonplace. For some, such behaviour reflects the fact that the politeness and courtesy that was a trademark of Japanese society are fading fast.
Standards are falling so rapidly that Japan Railways has just launched a poster campaign urging women to "Please do it at home" – put their make-up on, that is.
"I would have to say that levels of inconsideration have accelerated in the last five years or so," said Toshiko Marks, a professor of multicultural understanding at Shumei University. "I first saw a young woman applying her make-up on a train about five years ago but now it is an everyday sight," she said. "I even see people on trains eating food that has a strong smell, such as noodles, which means everyone has to put up with it."
Professor Marks said that the worst culprits are youngsters in their teens and twenties, and that women are the greater offenders.
Details here.
SINC SAYS:
Women are the worst, eh? Not surprisingly, I have seen more women applying make-up while driving than men shaving in the vehicle.
O. J. Simpson Transferred To Nevada State Prison
09/12/2008 05:11
LAS VEGAS - O.J. Simpson was transferred Monday from jail to a Nevada state prison to begin serving nine to 33 years for his felony convictions in a gunpoint confrontation with two sports memorabilia dealers, a state corrections official said.
Simpson, 61, arrived at High Desert State Prison in Indian Springs, Department of Corrections spokeswoman Suzanne Pardee said. The all-male medium security prison, about 70 kilometres northwest of Las Vegas, has 3,000 beds and serves as the intake centre for all new southern Nevada prison inmates.
"It went as expected," said Simpson lawyer Yale Galanter, who said he knew Simpson was due to be moved sometime this week from the Clark County jail. "We're actually expecting that he'll be assigned to one of the southern Nevada prisons."
Simpson trial co-defendant Clarence (C.J.) Stewart remained Monday at the Clark County Detention Center, jail records showed.
Stewart, 54, received 7 1/2 to 27 years when he and Simpson were sentenced Friday on 10 charges by Judge Jackie Glass in Las Vegas.
A Clark County District Court jury found the two men guilty Oct. 3 of 12 charges, including kidnapping, armed robbery, assault with a deadly weapon, burglary and conspiracy in the Sept. 13, 2007, confrontation. The judge dismissed two felony coercion charges at sentencing.
More from Canadian Press.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
It would appear that Orenthal James is going to be a resident of Nevada for at least the next nine years, whether he really wanted to or not. I think he looks kind of good in silver bracelets, folks, don't you think?
Nelsons Take Father/Son Challenge In Orlando
09/12/2008 05:11
Orlando, FL (Sports Network) - It may have been a different pair, but the Nelson family successfully defended its title on Sunday at the Father/Son Challenge.
Larry and Drew Nelson combined for a 10-under 62 on Sunday to win the event at 21-under 123.
Last year, Larry and Josh Nelson won the trophy and proud papa Larry became the second father to win with two different sons after he and Drew titled in 2004.
Thanks to Sunday's win, Larry is the only father to win back-to-back events with different sons.
"We were fortunate enough to win it three times," said Larry Nelson. "I don't know that this one is any more special than the first time I won with Drew. It's a big family thing whether we win or not."
Davis Love III and his son Dru threw a scare into the Nelsons, but ultimately came up short. The Loves also paired for a 62 on Sunday, but finished second at minus-19.
Tom and David Kite, who shared the first-round lead with the Irwins, only managed a seven-under 65 on Sunday for third place at 18-under-par 126.
The Loves drew even with the Nelsons after the Loves eagled the 16th hole at ChampionsGate. The Nelsons made birdie at 16 to move ahead, then Larry sank a 20-foot birdie putt at 17 to give them a cushion.
The Loves birdied the par-five closing hole and the Nelsons were in good shape to win after they put a ball on the green in two. The team two-putted for birdie and the two-shot win.
"The first time we won we won by three or four, so it was kind of a whole different way to go about winning," acknowledged Drew Nelson. "It was a little closer and more scoreboard-watching than the first time where we could four- putt 18 and still win."
The Nelsons pocketed $210,000 for the victory.
Raymond Floyd and Raymond Floyd, Jr. (64), Hale and Steve Irwin (62) and Bernhard and Stefan Langer (64) shared fourth place at 17-under-par 127.
Nick and Matthew Faldo, Mark and Shaun O'Meara and Arnold Palmer and his grandson Sam Saunders each posted eight-under 64s on Sunday and tied for seventh at minus-16.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
It was great to see 79-year-old Arnold Palmer and his grandson, Sam Saunders, out there on the weekend. Arnie and Sam shot two rounds of eight-under 64 over the weekend and finished tied for seventh place at -16. Because they are not a father and son team, however, they did not take home any of the prize money. Seems kind of strange to me. Not exactly fair, either. And, seventh place would have been worth about $60,000.00.
09/12/2008 05:11
Dear Valued Buyer,
"My commitment to you is offering great service, paying attention to detail, and placing your needs above all else on these two excellent Morinville homes."
Selling or buying a home can be a very stressful and emotional time. As your REALTOR®, you will enjoy the buying or selling experience and be comforted that I am working for you.
Please allow me, Peter Müller, to take care of your real estate needs. Whether it is to talk about how the market is affecting your home, giving you a FREE home evaluation, or by allowing me to SELL or FIND you a home at the best price possible. When you’re ready to look for that perfect house, allow me to assist you to make it your home.
Call me at 780-458-8300. Cell 780-996-0208 or e-mail me at peter@makeityourhome.ca or visit my web site.
Stars’ Owner To Meet With Hull Over Avery Suspension
09/12/2008 05:11
PALM BEACH, Fla. - Sean Avery's fate with the Dallas Stars could be decided as soon as Wednesday. And it doesn't sound too good for the NHL's super pest.
The team's brass will meet on Wednesday afternoon and discuss the Avery situation in depth.
"We're going to look at all the alternatives," owner Tom Hicks said Monday. "We're going to have some recommendations from (GMs) Brett (Hull), Les (Jackson) and (president) Jeff Cogen will participate as well."
Avery is currently serving a six-game suspension for saying that other NHL players are after his "sloppy seconds." Calgary Flames defenceman Dion Phaneuf is dating Avery's ex-girlfriend Elisha Cuthbert while Los Angeles Kings forward Jarett Stoll has been linked to Rachel Hunter - another of Avery's former love interests.
Hicks fully supported the league's decision to suspend the player and sent out a press release within a couple hours of Avery making the comment.
There has been plenty of speculation that the team might not welcome the winger back even after Dec. 16, when Avery is eligible to return to the lineup. Hicks didn't exactly quell the notion before heading into the NHL's board of governors meeting on Monday afternoon.
"I'm not prepared to say that (he's played his last game in Dallas) yet because I want to give our guys the respect they deserve to make the recommendations," he said. "But certainly when (coach) Dave Tippett comes out and stakes his claim, it's pretty hard to overcome that.
More from Canadian Press.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
It will be interesting to watch and see if Hull keeps his job over this Avery fiasco, since he was the one that had to convince Mr. Hicks to sign Avery this off-season.
Morten Andersen Retires As NFL’s All-Time Scorer
09/12/2008 05:11
COPENHAGEN, Denmark - Kicker Morten Andersen, the NFL's all-time leading scorer, is retiring because of knee problems.
The 48-year-old Dane, who scored 2,544 points during his 25-year career, played for the Atlanta Falcons the last two seasons but wasn't able to get a contract this year. Andersen said Monday he has given up his search and his NFL career.
"I realized I no longer can train in an optimal way because of my knees," Andersen said. "So I am retiring."
Andersen said that his knees were worn out after so many years as a professional player.
"It's not that I cannot kick, play golf or go bicycling, but it's not the same anymore," he said.
Andersen said that being a member of the Falcons when the team reached the Super Bowl in 1999 "was the culmination. It was the pinnacle of my career."
The Falcons advanced to their only Super Bowl after the 1998 season when Andersen's 38-yard field goal beat the Minnesota Vikings in the NFC title game. Atlanta lost the Super Bowl to the Denver Broncos.
Andersen became the leading scorer in NFL history on Dec. 17, 2006, during the Falcons' 38-28 loss to the Dallas Cowboys.
He kicked for five NFL teams in 25 years, including 13 seasons for the New Orleans Saints, eight for the Falcons, two for the Kansas City Chiefs and one season each with the New York Giants and the Vikings.
A Copenhagen native, Andersen went to the U.S. in 1977 as an exchange student and played college football for Michigan State.
He said he decided to announce his retirement in Denmark because of the support he has received at home. Although the NFL gets modest coverage in the Scandinavian country, Andersen's record-breaking career has been a top sports story in Danish media.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
See, I’ve always said kickers could play until they were 50. Well, okay, 48 then . . .
No Canadians Earn Cards At PGA Tour Q-School
09/12/2008 05:10
LA QUINTA, Calif. - Harrison Frazar finished a memorable week that included a 59 by reaching his ultimate goal Monday, closing with a 5-under 67 at the PGA Tour qualifying tournament to lead 28 players who earned their cards for next season.
Frazar, who has played 300 times on the PGA Tour without winning, seized control of Q-school with a 59 in the fourth round. He build such a big lead that even with a double bogey on the final hole of the Nicklaus Tournament course at PGA West, he still won by eight shots.
Frazar finished at 32-under 400.
Derek Fathauer, who made the cut at the U.S. Open this year as an amateur, and James Nitties each closed with a 70 to tie for second.
Typical of Q-school, the drama took place around the cutoff for the top 25 and ties to earn full status on the PGA Tour next year.
Notah Begay, a four-time PGA Tour winner and college teammate at Stanford with Tiger Woods, was one of only two qualifiers who faced the tougher TPC Stadium course in the final round. Two shots below the cut line with four holes to play, Begay ran off three straight birdies for a 67 to make it by one shot.
"Tiger and I always talk about, 'You gotta do what you gotta do.' I was thinking about him the last day," Begay said. "I've got to get this done. Those last three (birdies) out of four holes were great."
More from Canadian Press.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
Q-School is just one tough, unpleasant, gruelling, unenjoyable grind. I guess it’s next year time again for Bryan DeCorso, Dustin Risdon, Jon Mills, Jim Rutledge, and all of the other Canadians dreaming of earning exempt status on the 2009 PGA Tour.
Writer's Humane Society Logic Is Not Necessarily So
08/12/2008 05:04
Don,
Roseanna Gullekson's letter regarding the Edmonton Humane Society's new building seems logical on the surface, but some internet browsing reveals there is more to the story than it seems. The letter is an attempt to bring the reader onside with the ‘support your local St. Albert business’ angle. It sadly neglects to inform the reader of how vastly different these two ‘business operations’ really are.
Browse for yourself the Edmonton Humane Societies (EHS) web pages, and those of Makin-Trax. Follow all the information links and read the support pages.
It’s like comparing a Chevy S10 pickup and a Hummer SUV. They’re both trucks, BUT……..
The EHS operation is not on the same playing field or even the same arena as that of
Makin-Trax.
Makin-Trax is targeted at daytime visits for grooming, obedience training and day care. Most importantly, the client base is established pet owners in the neighboring community who want that kind of service for their animals.
The EHS facility is a 24-hour a day, full care operation complete with abandoned animal intake, animal adoption services, response to critical animal cares issues set out in provincial legislation, and includes medical care. Of course, it's more complex and expensive to build. Makin-Trax is a much smaller special purpose facility by comparison. Makin-Trax web site shows it has been in business almost 10 years, and evidently has very skilled staff working there. That’s a far cry from an organization liked EHS that has spanned almost a 100 years and relies a great deal on trained staff but also on a large volunteer base.
When Ms. Gullekson wants to embark on the far larger business of 24 hour care and adoption services, then she may have an axe worth grinding. The letter she wrote is a re-incarnation of earlier almost identical letters. See St Albert Gazette Letters of Oct 15/2008, and iNews880 story of Oct 28/2008.
To infer that the new facility only gains 6 new kennels for the 22.5 million reported cost is just misleading. It is twisting the facts to aid her agenda of supporting and protecting her business interest. For any business, change is inevitable and is a constant. The operators and staff of Makin-Trax will have to demonstrate they offer an equal or better product and run a better operation specific to their demonstrated expertise in Obedience Training, Animal Grooming, and Day care.
Kim Chaisson
St. Albert
SINC SAYS:
You know what I love about our readers? They never let each other get away with anything. For every opinion, there is an opposite and that is the way it should be.
Christmas Light Shows . . .
08/12/2008 05:04
St. Albert’s Place
reader Kim sent along the following note with a
series of links of Christmas light shows
gathered from the web.
“For those who have not yet viewed them, or if Sinc wants to post them, here are some links to light shows taken from the internet.”
They are so good, I thought I would save readers the trouble of looking them up and posting one a day here for your enjoyment.
Here’s the first one.
“For those who have not yet viewed them, or if Sinc wants to post them, here are some links to light shows taken from the internet.”
They are so good, I thought I would save readers the trouble of looking them up and posting one a day here for your enjoyment.
Here’s the first one.
CAN YOU GUESS WHAT THIS IS?
08/12/2008 05:04
Fascinating Last Pictures Taken
08/12/2008 05:04
The words “Last
picture taken” before a death conjure up many
emotions, whether in front of the camera or
behind it. This is just one of the last time stamps in history taken of and by some fascinating individuals. If anyone has new or conflicting information concerning the photos or information in this list I hope you will share it in your comments.
Marilyn Monroe
b.1926 d 1962
Many believe Celebrity photographer George Barris took the last pictures of Marilyn Monroe. However, it was actually Life Magazine’s photographer Allan Grant. The pictures were taken July 7, 1962 during an interview at her home. Six pictures appeared in Life including the one pictured above.
Just under a month later on August 5, 1962, the LAPD received a call at 4:25AM from Dr. Hyman Engelberg proclaiming that Monroe was dead at her home in Brentwood, Los Angeles. The official cause of Monroe’s death was classified as “acute barbiturate poisoning”, and was also recorded as a “probable suicide. Many questions still remain unanswered about the circumstances of her death and the timeline from when Monroe’s body was found.
Interesting Fact: The Life Magazine issue featuring Monroe’s interview was dated August 3 1962, just 2 days before her death.
Wie Earns LPGA Tour Card, Canucks Shut-Out
08/12/2008 05:03
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. - Michelle Wie has been playing LPGA Tour events since she was in the seventh grade, drawing the biggest galleries because of her youth and power, but earning little respect from players because of her preferential treatment.
In the 62 tournaments she has played over the last seven years, Wie received 53 exemptions or invitations.
The next time the 19-year-old from Hawaii tees it up, she finally can feel like she belongs.
Wie opened with three straight bogeys before settling down in blustery conditions Sunday for a 2-over 74, easily finishing among the top 20 players at the Q-school to become a card-carrying member of the LPGA Tour.
"It's a good feeling," Wie said. "I really earned it. I legitimately went through Q-school. I took my medicine. And I got it. It feels good. It's like high school graduation."
More from Canadian Press.
Wie clinches 2009 LPGA Tour place.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
Congrats, Michelle, it’s been a long time coming! It was a great tournament for Wie who shot 69, 65, 72, 68, 74 for a 12 under-par total of 348. Now for her first professional win on the LPGA Tour . . .
Middaugh 'Steals' The National From Gushue
08/12/2008 05:03
Brad Gushue's first Grand Slam of Curling title was there for the taking, but he let it slip away.
The St. John's skip missed on a potential championship-winning draw attempt with the last stone of the match, handing The National to Toronto's Wayne Middaugh on Sunday in Quebec City.
The 4-3 victory gave Middaugh his eighth Slam title, second only to Edmonton's Kevin Martin (13).
Gushue, the 28-year-old reigning Olympic champion, looked to be headed for his first career Slam crown as he nursed a 3-1 lead through six ends. That's when things went south.
Gushue left Middaugh an open hit for three and the lead with the hammer in the seventh, but Middaugh was off with his delivery and he managed only two and a tie.
That set the stage for the dramatic eighth and final end, where for a moment it looked like Middaugh had given away the title. The skip tried to squeeze his last rock behind his own high stone and in front of Gushue's shot rock at the back of the four-foot. But the throw was a bit heavy, leaving Gushue an easier draw for the win.
However, Gushue's attempt started out wide and stayed there, managing only to graze Middaugh's shot stone before sliding out of harm's way.
More from CBC Sports.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
Wayne Middaugh’s win yesterday did my heart a lot of good. I simply can’t stand Brad Gushue’s arrogance. Ever since he and his team won the gold medal in Curling at the 2006 Olympic Games in Torino, Italy, the kid has been unlivable. The only good news is that Russ Howard is no longer on his team.
Tommy Clements Has No Interest In Argos Job
08/12/2008 05:03
Scratch Tom Clements from the list of prospective candidates for the Toronto Argonauts head coaching position.
Clements, currently the quarterbacks coach for the NFL's Green Bay Packers, has told the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel that while he spoke to the Argos about their head-coaching position, he has no interest in returning to Canada.
"I'm happy in the NFL," Clements told the newspaper.
The Argos reportedly contacted Clements about a month ago.
Toronto promoted defensive coordinator Rich Stubler to head coach prior to the '08 season, but fired him in September after compiling a 4-6 record. The Argos brought Don Matthews, the CFL's winningest head coach, out of retirement to replace Stubler but he retired a second time at season's end after posting a 0-8 record with the Argos.
Clements, 55, played for four teams - Ottawa, Hamilton, Winnipeg and Saskatchewan - during a brilliant 12-year CFL career. The former Notre Dame star was the league's top rookie in '75 with the Rough Riders and the following year threw the game-winning touchdown pass to tight end Tony Gabriel in the Grey Cup against Saskatchewan.
Clements finished his CFL career in '87 with Winnipeg, compiling over 39,000 yards passing, a 60.4 per cent completion average and 252 TDs. He was inducted into the Canadian Football Hall of Fame in 1994.
In 1992, he was hired as quarterbacks coach at his alma mater and remained there until '95. He took his first NFL coaching job in '97 as the New Orleans Saints quarterbacks coach. He took a similar post in 2000 with Kansas City and between 2001 and 2003 with Pittsburgh.
Clements served as the Buffalo Bills offensive coordinator in 2004-'05 before being released. He joined the Packers coaching staff Jan. 28, 2006.
More from Canadian Press.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
Can you blame Clements? He would have to be right out of his mind to leave as the Green Bay Packers' quarterbacks coach to join that circus that is the Toronto Argos. And, he probably earns more money in Green Bay than the Argos would like to pay for a head coach anyhow.
08/12/2008 05:03
Dear Valued Buyer,
"My commitment to you is offering great service, paying attention to detail, and placing your needs above all else on these two excellent Morinville homes."
Selling or buying a home can be a very stressful and emotional time. As your REALTOR®, you will enjoy the buying or selling experience and be comforted that I am working for you.
Please allow me, Peter Müller, to take care of your real estate needs. Whether it is to talk about how the market is affecting your home, giving you a FREE home evaluation, or by allowing me to SELL or FIND you a home at the best price possible. When you’re ready to look for that perfect house, allow me to assist you to make it your home.
Call me at 780-458-8300. Cell 780-996-0208 or e-mail me at peter@makeityourhome.ca or visit my web site.
Economy Front And Centre At NHL BOG Meetings
08/12/2008 05:03
WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. - The sagging economy will be front and centre as the NHL's board of governors convenes for meetings this week.
Team owners and executives will be addressed by leading economists from both sides of the border on the longer-term effects the economy is expected to have on the league's business.
There will be no shortage of interested parties at the plush Breakers hotel for meetings on Monday and Tuesday as the NHL is believed to have as many as five or six franchises facing financial trouble.
The most serious of those is the Phoenix Coyotes, who are reportedly in line to lose as much as US$35 million this season.
NHL commissioner Gary Bettman has been cautious so far when asked about how the problems on Wall Street will impact his league and isn't expected to drastically change his tone here. However, he has acknowledged that it could become a growing issue.
"I'm mindful of the fact that if there is a continuing economic upheaval, I don't think anybody will be immune from it," Bettman told The Canadian Press in September. "But its exact impact is unpredictable and not something we're feeling yet."
As a result of that, the league's $56.7 million salary cap isn't expected to change much next season. The NHL locks in most of its sponsorship, ticket and TV revenue early in the year so the true impact of the slumping economy isn't expected to be reflected by the cap until the 2010-11 season.
More from Canadian Press.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
It’s interesting that even Gary Bettman’s attitude to the world’s economic crisis and its effect on the NHL is starting to change – a little.
Avery Can’t Return To Stars: Cherry
08/12/2008 05:03
Don Cherry says he doesn't see any way Sean Avery can return to the Dallas Stars once the controversial winger finishes his six-game suspension.
The Hockey Night in Canada commentator was speaking in the wake of a disturbing incident that began earlier this week when Avery made highly insulting remarks to a group of reporters about former girlfriend Elisha Cuthbert, now dating Calgary's Dion Phaneuf.
Immediately suspended from Tuesday's game with the Flames and Wednesday at Edmonton, Avery had a three-hour Thursday hearing in New York with NHL commissioner Gary Bettman.
Following that he was given the half-dozen games off and told to seek an anger management evaluation and, if needed, structured counselling.
"There's no way he can go back there," Cherry told host Ron MacLean on Coach's Corner. "[Goaltender Marty] Turco and [winger Brenden] Morrow warned Brett [Hull, the general manager] before they signed him 'No, we don't want him.' "
Avery signed as a free-agent with the Stars this summer after playing out his contract with the New York Rangers, where he already had become infamous as an agitator both on and off the ice.
Hull said at the end of this week that Avery was remorseful about the incident, adding: "I hope that we can put this all behind us."
Cherry came out in support of the beleaguered GM.
"I feel so sorry for Brett. He went out on a limb for him," Cherry said, shaking his head. "[He] gave him $15-million [on a contract] and when I saw Brett Hull stick handle around and defend him out there …"
More from CBC Sports.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
In this case, I completely agree with Donald S. Cherry.
Indian Masters Cancelled Due To Terror, Finances
08/12/2008 05:03
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates - The 2009 Indian Masters was cancelled Friday due to security fears following the Mumbai terror attacks and difficulties finding a sponsor during the global economic downturn.
The European Tour Event was to have been played from Feb. 5-8 at the Delhi Golf Club.
"The current economic uncertainty coupled to security concerns made it impossible for us to present the tournament in the manner that we would wish to for world class golfers," promoter Mohamed Juma Buamaim said.
Last week's terror attacks in Mumbai has left at least 170 people dead and 239 wounded.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
I sure hope those in professional sport (Read: Tim Finchem and Gary Bettman) who have stated the world economic downturn will have no effect on the professional sporting organizations they head are reading this.
Have Any Garbage Bag Tags To Share?
07/12/2008 04:52
Well folks, it’s that
time of year again and I am beginning to get
requests from people who are short on garbage
tags to see if any of our readers have some to
spare.
Every year at this time we provide this service to our readers in that we put those with extra garbage tags in touch with those who need a few more to get them through until the garbage bag tags expire and new ones are issued.
This is the time of year as well when the city, upset that we provide this small service to local residents, schemes some plan like a rain barrel giveaway if you enter some contest to keep people from giving away their tags.
Why it should bother the city that people give away their tags is beyond me. After all, the program should be zero based budgeted to have all tags issued cover the cost of the service.
So if you have extra
tags you would like to share with your
neighbours, please send me an e-mail at
mybirdie@telus.net and I will pair you up with
another reader who needs a few to get by until
the tags expire.
The city, if it wanted to, could solve the whole problem. All they have to do is take expiry dates off the tags and let them be used at all times. That would be too easy though, wouldn’t it folks? I mean imagine the city suddenly doing something positive for its residents other than raising our taxes.
07/12/2008 04:52
How far east can you go before you're heading west?
Do dentists go to other dentists or do they just do it themselves?
Why do people think that swaying their arm back and forth would change the direction of a bowling ball?
Why is it that everyone driving faster than you is considered an idiot and everyone driving slower than you is a moron?
If pro and con are opposites, wouldn't the opposite of progress be congress?
Mobile Celebrating New Year With Giant Moon Pie
07/12/2008 04:48
MOBILE, Ala. (AP) -
Mobile will ring in 2009 with chocolate, graham
cracker and marshmallow.
Partygoers at the city's New Year's Eve celebration will dine on the world's largest Moon Pie, courtesy of the Chattanooga, Tenn., bakery that's been making the treats since 1917. The dimensions were not immediately available, though company officials have talked in the past about making a 60-pound, 4-foot-diameter pie for the city.
And at the stroke of midnight, a giant electric Moon Pie model will drop instead of a ball. The city spent $9,000 from his discretionary fun to build the gigantic model.
Moon pies are near and dear to the hearts of Mobile residents. For year, revelers in the city's Mardi Gras parades have been throwing them from floats.
SINC SAYS:
I’ve had more than a few people show me a moon over the years and I want no part of a moon pie, thanks.
10 Baffling Medical Conditions
07/12/2008 04:44
Despite reseracher’s
efforts, these conditions remain clouded in
mysteryThe Man Who Never Gets Cold
Wim Hof, 49, of the Netherlands possesses such a strong resistance to cold that scientists remain baffled as to how he endures many of the tests to which he exposes his body.
The Guiness world record holder has immersed himself, nearly naked, in ice for one hour and 12 minutes.
Nine more here folks.
SINC SAYS:
Some of these are just plain weird.
The One That Didn't Get Away Yields Long-Lost Ring
07/12/2008 04:44
BUNA, Texas – The one
that didn't get away held an unlikely surprise
for a Texas man. The blue-stoned class ring of
Joe Richardson, engraved with his name, turned
up inside an 8-pound bass 21 years after he
lost it while fishing on Lake Sam
Rayburn."My first reaction was — you gotta be kidding," he said Wednesday.
The fisherman who discovered the tarnished ring inside his catch contacted Richardson on Nov. 28 in Buna, about 100 miles northeast of Houston, after tracking him down with help from the Internet.
His fisherman hero asked to remain anonymous.
Richardson, 41, said he lost the ring about two weeks after his 1987 graduation from Universal Technical Institute in Houston. His mom had bought it for about $200 and wasn't pleased when it went missing.
As a mechanic, Richardson said he doesn't wear jewelry so he tucked the undamaged ring away.
"I have not cleaned it," he said. "I told my wife I don't want to clean it."
SINC SAYS:
Well, well, isn’t this one for the hooks, I mean books.
Snake Caught Up In Printer Queue
07/12/2008 04:44
SNAKES often turn up
in strange places, but this brown tree snake
has decided to join the digital
age.
It has set up home in a printer of Lismore couple Denis and Marie Matthews.
Marie is the publicity officer for the Friends of the Lismore Rainforest Botanic Gardens and one of her jobs is to produce the group's monthly newsletter.
So when Brian, who is the group's secretary, went to print off the envelopes for the newsletter he couldn't get anything out of the printer.
That's when he found the metre long reptile curled up comfortably in the printer and causing a paper jam.
Denis managed to shift the reluctant snake with the help of a long pointer, but only after attempts to coach it out through the back of the printer failed.
``When I used a long pointer to encourage the snake to move, it reluctantly came out through the front, under the monitor screen and round the back of the computer case,'' he said.
But that isn't the end of the story.
The snake was still there the next day and Denis suspects it is still in the computer room as he frequently finds small objects knocked from shelves.
Luckily for Denis the snake doesn't seem to be typical of the species.
The nocturnal brown tree snake is often referred to as the night tiger and is usually very aggressive when confronted.
It is venomous, but thanks to the fangs being at the rear of the snake's mouth and also that the fangs are grooved rather than hollow, it is generally regarded as of little danger to adults, although it could kill a child.
SINC SAYS:
He probably didn’t have a pit to hiss in.
Martin Gasses Chance For Third Straight National Title
07/12/2008 04:44
Gushue, Middaugh to curl for Grand Slam title
Brad Gushue will try for his first Grand Slam of Curling win on Sunday, while Wayne Middaugh be looking to recapture The National in Quebec City.
Toronto's Middaugh advanced to the final of the event on Saturday with a surprisingly easy 5-2 win over defending champion Kevin Martin of Edmonton.
Gushue of St. John's, N.L., reached the final later in the evening in a 6-5 cliffhanger over Randy Ferbey. Gushue led 4- after scoring three in the fourth end, but the veteran skip from Edmonton battled back to tie with a pair in the seventh.
"Even when we're not playing well in games we're keeping ourselves in it, giving ourselves a chance to win," Gushue told Scott Russell of CBC Sports.
It was the second tough match of the day for the 2006 Torino Games winner, who needed an extra end earlier to dispatch Mike McEwen, 28, of Winnipeg 5-4.
Gushue will try for his first Grand Slam win, having last competed in a final during the 2004-05 season.
CBC Sports will provide coverage of Sunday's championship final (CBC, CBCSports.ca, 10:00 a.m. local time).
Middaugh raced to a 3-0 lead and then, after a rally from Martin closed the gap to one, scored two in the seventh end for the victory.
Middaugh won The National in 2005 in Port Hawkesbury, N.S. He's also won the Masters and the Canadian Open to go along with four Players championship titles.
Martin had gone through the round robin unbeaten before edging Martin Ferland of Trois-Rivières, Que., 5-4 in the quarters on Saturday morning.
Jeff Stoughton of Winnipeg also came away with nothing after a perfect round robin, defeated 7-6 in the quarter-finals by Ferbey.
Ferbey, who went 3-2 during the week, including a 7-5 loss to Stoughton in the third draw, seized the lead Saturday with a three-point sixth end and held on for a 7-6 victory.
Middaugh reached the semis by stunning Winnipeg's Kerry Burtnyk 7-5 with a three-point final end.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
The semi-final loss against Wayne Middaugh may have been the worst game I have ever seen Kevin Martin curl, shooting only 66 per cent. He has no one to blame for this loss except himself.
NHLPA To Appeal Avery Suspension
07/12/2008 04:44
The National Hockey League Players Association is planning on grieving Sean Avery's 6-game suspension.
The PA believes NHL commissioner Gary Bettman handed down a summary suspension before the hearing, constituting a violation of the collective bargaining agreement. The CBA suggests for off-ice discipline a hearing must take place before action is taken.
The NHL suspended Avery on Tuesday, preventing him from playing in the game in Calgary.
Action taken, without a hearing.
With the exception of the 1988 one game suspension assessed to then Devils coach Jim Schoenfeld for angrily suggesting referee Don Koharski eat another donut in a heated verbal joust following game 3 of the Wales conference finals against the Boston Bruins, the Players Association says the NHL has never gone so far as to impose a suspension.
Fines are usually levied and deemed sufficient discipline.
The NHL says Avery was suspended for violation of the NHL Constitution for conduct 'detrimental to the League or game of hockey.'
According to the PA, to the extent player “statements” have prompted suspensions, it has always taken place on the ice, falling under the jurisdiction of supplementary discipline and the few suspensions handed down have been for far less than Sean Avery's 6 games.
It's unlikely the PA will be looking to reduce the suspension, but will be hoping to establish a legal point so the NHL won't be able to suspend players without a hearing in the future.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
Typical union, appealing Avery’s suspension when he clearly does not have a leg to stand on. Ridiculous. This is the kind of nonsense that gives unions a bad name.
NHL Goaltenders Take It To The Limit
07/12/2008 04:44
Injuries strike down even the most stalwart netminders
Since October 1995, New Jersey Devils general manager Lou Lamoriello has been extremely fortunate in at least one aspect of his job.
In each of the subsequent 12 NHL seasons, he has been able to count on at least 67 starts from future Hall of Fame goaltender Martin Brodeur.
But after years of success that has included three Stanley Cup titles with his durable netminder on board, Lamoriello is no longer the envy of every league GM. Brodeur tore his biceps on Nov. 1 and could miss the rest of the season.
"I think he hurt his knee a little while back but other than that, this guy has been as durable as you could ever imagine," said former NHL goalie Glenn Healy, one of several hockey people who discussed the overuse of NHL goalies with CBCSports.ca.
Brodeur's luck ran out after countless hours of practice and a combined 68,310 minutes of play in NHL regular season and playoff games. Many of his brethren haven't been near as lucky, while the few that have, probably will encounter problems down the road.
Through the first seven weeks of this season, injuries beset no fewer than 17 NHL goalies, including 12 starters.
The most serious injury was to Brodeur, followed by Vancouver's Roberto Luongo, who is sidelined week to week after straining his left groin on a routine save at Pittsburgh on Nov. 22.
Luongo had played in at least 72 of his team's 82 games in each of the past four campaigns.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
More from CBC hockey analyst Doug Harrison.
07/12/2008 04:44
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Wie Looks For First Win In Final Q-School Round
07/12/2008 04:44
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. -- Two older men walked across a wooden bridge on the way to the 17th tee Saturday on the Champions course at LPGA Q-School. Let's call them Waldorf and Statler. "Celebrity worship, that's all this is," harrumphed Waldorf. "Yeah," said Statler. The two men walked a few paces. Then Waldorf spoke again: "But she's here, so it's a chance to see her in person."
Michelle Wie will be searching for her first victory as a professional on Sunday during the final round of LPGA Tour Q-school.
Much like the original Waldorf and Statler in the balcony on "The Muppet Show," these two gents grumbled and groused but didn't leave.
When Michelle Wie putted out for par on the 18th green for a four-round total of 14-under and a spot in Sunday's final group, the two men were there to see it.
A lot of people don't like Wie for reasons that often have little to do with Wie herself. But it's very hard to dispute the argument that there is no one more important to the future of the LPGA than the 19-year-old from Hawaii. Her gallery Saturday is proof.
Wie had about 150 people following her around all day, which is large for a non-Annika Sorenstam gallery at any nonmajor stop on the LPGA Tour. Now that Sorenstam has retired, 150 people is large for just about any player at any nonmajor tour stop. And those fans came in all varieties.
More from ESPN.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
Hmm . . . let’s see, 69-65-72-68 over the first four rounds leaves Michelle Wie at 14 under-par heading into today's fifth and final round of the LPGA Q-School In Daytona Beach, Florida. Pretty much all Wie has to do to earn her LPGA Tour card for 2009 is to make sure she makes it through today's final round alive.
Judge Blocks NFL’s Suspension Of Five Players
07/12/2008 04:43
ST. PAUL, Minn. - A federal judge on Friday blocked the NFL from suspending five players for violating the league's anti-doping policy by using a banned diuretic, clearing the way for them to play Sunday.
U.S. District Judge Paul Magnuson said he needed more time to consider the case after hearing several hours of arguments from the league and the NFL Players Association.
"I've got to read the background material," said Magnuson, who noted he received a 20-page filing from the NFL earlier that morning. "Justice cannot function in this way."
Magnuson gave no indication when he would issue his written ruling, but did note there was no evidence of steroid use by the players. "We're not talking about steroids in this case. Period," he said.
Kevin Williams and Pat Williams of the Minnesota Vikings and Charles Grant, Deuce McAllister and Will Smith of the New Orleans Saints were suspended this week for four games each. They tested positive for a banned diuretic in the dietary supplement StarCaps.
More from Canadian Press.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
Good for Judge Magnuson. I have taken diuretics in my lifetime, mostly because my body was retaining too much water. Strangely, however, they certainly didn’t have the same effect on me as anabolic steroids have on many professional athletes, in that they didn’t transform me into a 250-pound, muscle-bound ‘hunka, hunka burning love’. Perhaps the NFL should be reviewing its anti-doping policy and the banned drugs?
Harrison Frazar Shoots 59 at Q-School
07/12/2008 04:43
LA QUINTA, Calif. - Harrison Frazar realized that every birdie he made on the back nine kept pushing him closer to golf's magic number of 59 in the PGA Tour qualifying tournament Saturday
He didn't care about his score, only that each birdie improved his chances of earning a PGA Tour card.
"I'm here to make as many birdies as I can for 108 holes, then get back on tour where I can play," Frazar said.
But when he rolled in his seventh straight birdie, a 35-foot putt on the 17th hole of the Nicklaus Tournament course at PGA West, he knew he needed only a par on the final hole to shoot 59.
"I wanted to shoot 59 for me, just to say I did it," he said. "And those were the two best swings I've hit in a long time."
Frazar calmed his nerves and drove into the fairway, hit a wedge to the green and took two putts to become only the second player to shoot a 59 at Q-school.
More from Canadian Press.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
Congrats, Harrison on a tremendous accomplishment! 59 is golf’s magic score for 18 holes. Shooting 59 is sort of like scoring an eight ender in curling, a perfect game in bowling or a hole-in-one in golf.
With the 59, Frazar joins some pretty select company. He and David Gossett are the only players to ever shoot 59 at Q-School, which is not an official PGA event. Al Geiberger, Chip Beck and David Duval are the only professional players with a 59 in official play, while Annika Sorenstam is the only LPGA Tour player with a 59.