Grandin Mall Reconstruction Details Still Up In Air

13/09/2008 07:23

SINC SAYS:

There has been very little in local papers regarding just what will happen to current businesses in Grandin Mall during the redevelopment phase expected in the spring. I wanted to know if mall merchants were any better informed, so I shot an e-mail off to Barb over at Bad Girlz clothing store in the mall to see if she could enlighten readers on progress to date.

You can judge for yourselves how well informed mall merchants are on the situation. Thanks for the update Barb, which follows:

Don,

We haven't heard anything about the mall and when the development will begin. I don't know what will become of the store as we are hoping to be able to remain here while the construction is under way. Everything is very up in the air right now.

Two of us have submitted our names to sit on the downtown task force. We are hoping that just because we didn't want to pay for a BRZ doesn't mean that nothing should be done. We just don't want a huge bill at the end.

I just hope that they realize what the biggest hurdle is, and that is St. Albert itself. We struggle like any small city which is basically a bedroom community to a close larger center.

St. Albert seems to have an identity crisis with some wanting it to thrive and grow, and some that just want a quiet place to come home to after work. Both are fine but they can work against each other too, as we've seen at
election time.

I’m optimistic seeing some of the larger chains coming into our city. I'm hoping that will help people see that almost everything they need is right here in St. Albert and maybe change the mindset of heading into Edmonton.

Barb Freysteinson
Bad Girlz
Grandin Mall

City Administration Wants Poop Details In Camera

13/09/2008 07:15

Hi Don,

I am used to seeing all kinds of issues of public interest being held "in camera", but this one really got me by surprise. The "Off-Leash Dog Park Bylaw" is an in camera item!

Any idea why?

Know any doggies who could take advantage of knowing where they may roam freely?

Woof, woof.

Elke Blodgett
St. Albert

SINC SAYS:

Well if that doesn’t take the cake. Oh wait, maybe it’s the poop? I can’t even possibly imagine why such a by-law should be hidden in secrecy. And I don’t suppose anyone on council or administration either will bother to tell us. On the off chance that we won’t be totally ignored, or worse, labelled poop disturbers, please city fathers, consider this a request for an explanation.

Two Heads Better Than One

13/09/2008 07:12

THIS tiny two-headed tortoise was found in an aquatic farm in China.

A worker was looking through a shipment of baby tortoises when he found this double header.

Talk about being given a head start!

SINC SAYS:

Now if we could only find a two headed hare, the race could begin.

The Things That People Send Me . . .

13/09/2008 07:09

Drugs Affect More Drinking Water

13/09/2008 07:00

Testing prompted by an Associated Press story that revealed trace amounts of pharmaceuticals in drinking water supplies has shown that more Americans are affected by the problem than previously thought -- at least 46 million.

That's up from 41 million people reported by the AP in March as part of an investigation into the presence of pharmaceuticals in the nation's waterways.

The AP stories prompted federal and local legislative hearings, brought about calls for mandatory testing and disclosure, and led officials in at least 27 additional metropolitan areas to analyze their drinking water. Positive tests were reported in 17 cases, including Reno, Nev., Savannah, Ga., Colorado Springs, Colo., and Huntsville, Ala. Results are pending in three others.

The test results, added to data from communities and water utilities that bowed to pressure to disclose earlier test results, produce the new total of Americans known to be exposed to drug-contaminated drinking water supplies.

Sip more details here.

SINC SAYS:

So, the next time you have a left over prescription, think twice before flushing it down the toilet.

cfcw

Colour Cartoons Of The Day . . .

13/09/2008 06:57

Don,

The cartoon about the two seater outhouse reminded me of an incident here in Northumberland many years ago. An apprentice joiner was sent to install a new seat in a nettie (outhouse). He cut out square shaped hole and was forever afterwards nicknamed Squarehole Johnson.

Norm in Wales, UK.

newsbanner

13/09/2008 06:54

A London lawyer runs a stop sign and gets pulled over by a Glasgow copper.

He thinks that he is smarter than the cop because he is a lawyer from LONDON and is certain that he has a better education then any Jock cop. He decides to prove this to himself and have some fun at the Glasgow cops expense!!

Glasgow cop says, 'Licence and registration, please.'

London Lawyer says, 'What for?'

Glasgow cop says, 'Ye didnae come to a complete stop at the stop sign.'

London Lawyer says, 'I slowed down, and no one was coming.'

Glasgow cop says, 'Ye still didnae come to a complete stop. Licence and registration, please.'

London Lawyer says, 'What's the difference?'

Glasgow cop says, 'The difference is, ye huvte to come to complete stop, that's the law, Licence and registration, please!'

London Lawyer says, 'If you can show me the legal difference between slow down and stop, I'll give you my licence and registration;and you give me the ticket. If not, you let me go and don't give me the ticket.'

Glasgow cop says, 'Sounds fair. Exit your vehicle, sir.'

The London Lawyer exits his vehicle.

The Glasgow cop takes out his baton and starts beating the hell out of the lawyer and says, 'Dae ye want me to stop, or just slow doon?'

Vandal Leaves His Greasy Imprint On Nebraska Town

13/09/2008 06:43

VALENTINE, Neb. - Boy, how people here wish their busiest vandal would find another way to make his mark.

Beginning more than a year ago, some man has been skipping from one business to another at night, pressing his naked behind - sometimes his groin, sometimes both - on windows.

Store owners, church workers and school janitors have had to wash lotion and petroleum jelly off the windows he selects.

Police Chief Ben McBride says it's the weirdest case he's ever seen.

Some residents of Valentine, a town of about 2,650 people, find some humour in the strange vandalism and have taken to calling the perpetrator the "Butt Bandit."

But they also can't help but cringe when finding his marks.

CBC News story here.

SINC SAYS:

Now there’s a guy with some imagination! Happy Valentine’s Day, albeit a tad early.

Armstrong Says Road Back To Racing Has Begun

13/09/2008 06:43

MONT-TREMBLANT, Que. - For Lance Armstrong, the road back to the Tour de France began Friday in the Laurentian mountains north of Montreal.

The seven-time winner of the famed bike race came to the trendy Mont-Tremblant tourist resort to ride along rain-soaked roads with about 40 cyclists.

They each had to raise a minimum $25,000 donation to a cancer care fund to earn a spot behind Armstrong during the 100-kilometre ride.

In a statement to reporters, Armstrong said it is important for him to be able to talk about the global impact of cancer, which he noted kills eight million people a year.

The 36-year-old cancer survivor said the fight against the disease is the driving force behind his decision to race again.

"As some of you may or may not know, I've decided to race again . . . to talk about the global circumstances of this disease," he said.

More from Canadian Press.

SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:

While this is certainly a noble thing to do on Armstrong’s part, make no mistake – the road back will be a long and probably frustrating one for him.

NHL Plans To Be In Europe In 10 Years

13/09/2008 06:42

The Globe and Mail reports that the National Hockey League is aiming to have teams based in Europe within the next 10 years.

"As time goes on, you'll see us making increasing movement into Europe," NHL deputy commissioner Bill Daly told the newspaper. "Certainly, it's a possibility that within 10 years time we will be playing games there."

The league has already experimented with games overseas with exhibition games in Europe in the early 1990s and regular season games in Japan prior to the 1998 Winter Olympic Games in Nagano. The Anaheim Ducks and Los Angeles Kings played in London, England last year, while four more teams - the New York Rangers, Ottawa Senators, Tampa Bay Lightning and Pittsburgh Penguins - will play in Europe next month.

Daly added that while further exposure in Europe was a possibility, there are no guarantees of it happening. "I think it's a long way between here and there," he told the Globe and Mail. "And I think all the pieces have to continue to line up in order for that to happen. So, certainly, we would hope that would be the case. But I can't say with any degree of certainty at this point."

More from TSN and the Globe & Mail.

SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:

Sure, why not water down professional hockey even more than it’s already watered down today and expand to Europe?

Milt Stegall "Simply The Best"

13/09/2008 06:42

TORONTO - Milt Stegall spoiled Don Matthews' return to the Toronto Argonauts on Friday night.

Stegall caught two touchdown passes and became the most prolific receiver in CFL history in leading the Winnipeg Blue Bombers to a lopsided 39-9 win over Toronto in Matthews' first game on the Argos sidelines in 10 years.

With both teams wearing 1950s-style jerseys as part of the CFL's Retro Week promotion, the 38-year-old Stegall looked like a man in his 20s in anchoring Winnipeg's 24-point second-quarter outburst. Stegall's 16-yard touchdown grab tied Allen Pitts' CFL record of 14,891 receiving yards. Then the 14-year veteran shattered the mark in impressive fashion, finding a seam in Toronto's defence to haul in Kevin Glenn's pass, then running untouched into the end zone.

"Well, I needed 17 yards and had eight games so I figured it would eventually happen," Stegall said. "The bigger relief is we got a good victory, a total team victory.

More from Canadian Press.

SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:

Congrats, Milt!

Great One Weighs In On Hockey's Future

13/09/2008 06:41

TORONTO - Wayne Gretzky doesn't believe the new Russian hockey league poses a threat to the NHL and won't be surprised to see another NHL team eventually end up in Ontario.

Those are just two of the issues he touched on during a wide-ranging speech to the Economic Club of Canada on Friday afternoon.

The Great One told the crowd he was offered an opportunity to go to Europe after retiring from the New York Rangers in 1999 but didn't see any point in playing in a second-tier league. He believes many of today's stars will have the same reaction if they're approached by a KHL team.

"The bottom line is there's only one National Hockey League," said Gretzky. "When I retired I got an offer to go play in Swizerland and it was a crazy amount of money. I remember thinking, `You know what, it's all fun and that's great but there's only one National Hockey League.'

More from Canadian Press.

SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:

It’s nice to see Gretz not pull any punches when it comes to what he thinks is the best professional hockey league in the world.

Read Becomes Alberta Alpine President

13/09/2008 06:41

CALGARY - Former Alpine Canada CEO Ken Read has been appointed president of Alberta Alpine.

The appointment is effective immediately.

"We are delighted to bring his leadership to the athletes, programs and events of Alberta Alpine so we may continue to be a strong supporter of ski racing excellence in Canada," board chair Mike Irwin said in a release Friday.

Read stepped down from Alpine Canada in July because the organization's policy prohibited a parent of a national team racer from being employed within management of a national sports body. Read's son Erik had shown the potential to become a member of the Alpine ski team.

"We simply see tremendous benefits of having Ken Read as president of Alberta Alpine," Irwin said. "His decision to take this job is great for our sport and our organization."

SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:

It’s nice to see something like this happen to Ken Read. He is one of the nicest, most honorable gentlemen I have ever met.

One of the original "Crazy Canucks," I met Read in the 1990s when I asked him to come to Klondike Days and sign autographs for a company I was working for at the time. I picked him up at the Edmonton International Airport and, much to my surprise, he presented me with an autographed copy of his new book. That’s right – even though he was doing me a favor, he presented me with an autographed book.

1st World Conference Of Women's Shelters

12/09/2008 08:37

Hi Don,

I had the pleasure of attending the gala supper held to draw to a close the 1st World Conference of Women's shelters Thursday evening at the Shaw Conference Center.

WOW! It seemed like thousands of mostly women crammed into the big hall. There were of course speeches, but these were lively and short. There was singing, rattle song, drumming and a play "Speak" done by a youth group from Stony Plain. They did everything, including writing the script and the acting. They were incredible. Their ages ranged from 12 to 17 and they will travel to where they are needed to spread the word about family violence.

I learned that it only took two years to plan this event which brought women from every corner of the world together to discuss family violence and women's shelters.

There was a very loud round of applause when it was leaked that the ladies from Israel and Saudi Arabia were in the courtyard together having photos taken.

The walls were covered with anti violence posters from all the countries written in the languages of the attendees.
Jan Reimer was one of the ladies instrumental in pulling this altogether! Wish you could have been there.

You can learn much more about family violence here on their web site, pictured lower right.

Alison Glass

PS: CAW (the union I am an honorary member of) was one of the sponsors of the event and paid for one of the ladies from the local to attend the whole four days and for me to join her for "the last supper". See Unions are good for something!

SINC SAYS:

Gee Alison, that sounds like it was some event. Thank you so much for taking the time to send along your report and the pictures for St. Albert’s Place readers to enjoy. And yes, I got your point about unions too.

It’s Always Entertaining At LB’s Pub

12/09/2008 08:37

This weekend LB’s Pub features “Lindberg Express” from Calgary.

Carolin of Lindberg Express writes songs with Duane Steele and Troy Kokhl and has done so for many years. She has only started to sing a couple of years ago after many years of song writing.

LB’s is the premiere live entertainment venue in St. Albert and if you’ve never been folks, you really should drop by and enjoy the entertainment.

And remember, it’s not all country either.

LB’s now features an instructor teaching Latin Salsa Dancing from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. every Saturday evening. The lessons are $30.00 for six Saturdays and this includes water, pop, tea or coffee during the breaks. The instructor that is giving the lessons has a web site that you can access here for further information.

The lessons started last Saturday and is sure looks like lots of fun. And remember, you can just come in and just watch. There is no charge to do so.

Pig Truck Crash Closes Highway For 9 Hours

12/09/2008 05:58

CUMMING, Iowa -- An overnight crash on Interstate 35 south of Des Moines led to a five-mile-long traffic jam Thursday morning that continued for close to 9 hours.

The crash happened at 1:15 a.m. around mile marker 61, which is 25 miles south of Des Moines near the Martinsdale exit in the southbound lanes. Traffic started flowing again around 10 a.m. in one lane, as crews worked to reopen both lanes.

State patrol officials said the incident started when a truck carrying pigs suddenly swerved in a construction zone and overturned.

The truck driver, Jason Johnson, told KCCI, "I hit the shoulder, it was soft enough that it sucked me in. I wasn't able to get it back on the road, caught the bridge and ended up wrecking my truck and trailer."

About 20 of the pigs ran from the scene. Troopers and fire fighters worked for hours to get them contained and to bring in a second truck to load the pigs back onto a tractor-trailer.

The load included more than 156 pigs; some died during the crash. After the pigs are removed from the scene, hazmat crews will arrive to finish the cleanup process.

Hundreds of trucks have been parked on I-35 since the accident first happened, a parking lot stretching for more than five miles.

SINC SAYS:

They should have cooked up a few pork chops while they were waiting for the road to re-open.

Zoo's Tiger Cub Named Billy Ray

12/09/2008 05:55

Billy Ray is the new name of the tiger cub born on Mother's Day at the Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium.

The cub, which now weighs 30 pounds and has been hand-fed by zookeepers since birth because his mother refused to nurse him, was named by zoo donors in honor of a deceased family member who was a big fan of singer Billy Ray Cyrus. The new name was announced today.

"He is very curious and loves to play in his new outdoor yard at the snow leopard exhibit," Kathy Suthard, lead cat keeper, said. "He also is starting to develop some of his natural instincts like hunting. It is funny to see him crouch down and slowly advance on any birds that fly into the exhibit. He doesn't catch them yet, but he will."

The next milestone for the little cub is weaning him from his human playmates.
"He is bigger now and very rough with his play," said Ms. Suthard. "We can't interact with him like we used to, which is hard for all of us. We miss playing with him."

He is eating more than three pounds of meat a day.

Billy Ray was born on May 11; his mother, Toma, has refused to nurse him.

Billy Ray will grow to about 11 feet long and weigh more than 450 pounds. Adult Amur tigers are solitary animals in the wild and their mother usually weans them within one year.

The zoo is working on finding a mate for Billy Ray until he is old enough to be on his own.

Amur tigers, more commonly known as Siberian tigers, are a critically endangered species due to habitat destruction and the illegal fur trade. There are currently only an estimated 400 Amur tigers in the wild and approximately 190 Amur tigers managed in the Association of Zoos and Aquariums' accredited zoos.

SINC SAYS:

Good thing he was born in a zoo. Rejected by his mother in the wild means certain death.

The Musings Of Maxine . . .

12/09/2008 05:55

Helpful Pooch Comes To Neighbour's Aid

12/09/2008 05:51

From CBC News

NEW YORK - A fluffy little dog named Lexi is being called a hero for helping to rescue an 85-year-old neighbour who collapsed in his Brooklyn apartment.

Linda Deutsch concedes that she thought Lexi - a white bichon frise - was being naughty when she refused to get into the elevator for their walk.
Finally, though, Deutsch let Lexi lead her down the hall.

That's when she heard a cry for help.

The building superintendent was summoned, and they found Charles Postler, who had been lying helplessly on the floor for hours.

He was treated at a hospital.

Comments his son, Charles Postler Jr.: "People say that dogs are man's best friend and this proves it all over again."

SINC SAYS:

I think this is one case where that common saying, “life’s a bichon” can be overlooked.

Does Size Really Matter?

12/09/2008 05:48

Three men were shot dead and two others critically wounded in a Durban tavern following an argument over the size of male genitals, police said on Thursday.

Superintendent Muzi Mngomezulu said the shooting took place at the Merseyside Restaurant and Bar at the Queensmead Mall in Durban's Umbilo suburb on Wednesday night.

Five people were arrested in the early hours of Thursday morning. Two of those arrested were found in possession of firearms, which police believe were the weapons used in the shooting. All five were residents of the Phoenix area.

The argument apparently began when a patron of Indian descent made a comment about the size of a white patron's genitals while both were at the tavern's urinals.

Tiny details here.

SINC SAYS:

There is a lesson to be learned here guys. If an Indian guy beside you at the urinal tells you his is bigger than yours, here’s the comeback: “Yes sir, certainly is. Small isn’t it?”

cfcw

Bee Swarm Kills Six In Car Smash And Sting

12/09/2008 05:45

BEIJING (Reuters) - Three people were stung to death after a truck carrying dozens of bee hives overturned in northeast China and three more were killed on the road as they tried to steer clear of the swarm, newspapers said on Thursday.

The bee-hive truck collided with a farm vehicle on Wednesday and overturned near Changchun, the capital of Jilin province, the China Daily said.

Pictures showed thousands of bees swarming around the accident site as workers, wearing protective clothing, cleared the debris.

The East Asia Economy and Trade News said three more people were killed hours later when two trucks collided as they tried to avoid the swarm.

There had been seven deadly accidents on the same section of road in three months, the newspaper said.

SINC SAYS:

I suppose if you’ve been around that many bees, you have an aversion to being around bees. Haven’t been there or done that though.

Amazing Fruit And Veggie Art . . .

12/09/2008 05:43

Jail Cells A Possibility At Italian Soccer Stadiums

12/09/2008 05:43

In an attempt to curb violence at soccer matches, Serie A president Antonio Matarrese wants jail cells built at Italian stadiums.

"We have vague and weak laws that need to be changed," Matarrese said Thursday.

"All the politicians have their own ideas but we would be in favour of putting cells inside stadiums so that anyone who commits a crime can immediately be locked up."

Matarrese's suggestion comes after violence marred the opening weekend of the Italian first division season.

On Aug. 31, Napoli fans rioted as they travelled to attend an away game against AS Roma. The Napoli supporters wrecked a train and destroyed 20 buses, as well as assaulting a train conductor and police officers.

There were also violent outbursts inside the stadium during the game, which ended in a 1-1 draw. As a result, Napoli fans were banned from travelling to away games for the remainder of the season.

Soccer-related violence has blighted the Italian game the past two years.

On Feb. 2, 2007, policeman Filippo Raciti was killed outside a stadium in riots following a game between Sicilian rivals Catania and Palermo.

Last year, a Lazio fan was accidentally shot by police at a highway rest stop.

Italy's Interior Ministry unveiled an ad campaign against soccer violence on Thursday. The advertisements will be broadcast on TV and stadium screens at Italian league games.

Matarrese pledged to do everything possible to assist the Italian government.

"We will continue to fight against violence without letting our guard down," Matarrese said. "The [club] presidents are doing the impossible. Let's not forget that some go around with security escorts because they face opposition from violent fan groups."

SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:

I know that the Italians take their soccer really seriously, but it’s a sad indictment on our society when a sport reaches this point, isn’t it?

Bombers’ Stegall Closing In On Another All-Time Mark

12/09/2008 05:42

TORONTO - He's already the CFL's all-time leader in touchdowns and receiving TDs. On Friday night, Milt Stegall will set his sights on becoming the most prolific receiver in league history.

The Winnipeg Blue Bombers 14-year veteran slotback will enter the contest against the Toronto Argonauts at Rogers Centre needing just 17 yards to break Allen Pitts' mark of 14,891 yards.

(Catch Stegall's run at CFL history in Game 1 of a doubleheader starting at 7pm et/4pm pt on TSN, TSN.ca and TSN HD)

"That's pretty cool, that's pretty cool," Stegall said Thursday of breaking Pitts' record. "Of course, my main concern right now is winning the game.

"When it happens, I'll celebrate it for a second. But we've got to win a game and we know it's going to be a difficult task, we've got The Don back and he'll pull out some tricks, we know that. Hopefully I'll get the record and it comes along with the victory."

More from Canadian Press.

SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:

Stegall will undoubtedly break the record tonight to become the leading receiver in the history of the Canadian Football League. And, he will have done it with class – without the pomp, pageantry and shameless self-promotion shown by other “spoiled,” self-serving, pampered professional athletes. Well done, Milt. Congratulations!

Remembering Roy’s Career-Changing Game

12/09/2008 05:41

On December 2, 1995, the hockey world changed for both Patrick Roy and the Montreal Canadiens in what was supposed to be another Saturday night game at The Forum.

At home to face the Detroit Red Wings, the Habs played their worst home game in franchise history, losing in a 12-1 blowout.

Roy was kept in goal by then head coach Mario Tremblay for the first nine goals, and the Forum fans jeered him when he made an easy save.

Embarrassed, Roy raised his hands in mock celebration. When he was finally pulled, he stormed past Tremblay and told team president Ronald Corey that he had played his last game in bleu, blanc et rouge.

"It's my last game in Montreal," he said.

More from TSN.

SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:

I remember that night back in 1995 very well. It sure set the tone for both the Montreal Canadiens and the Colorado Avalanche for at least the following decade.

Michael Phelps To Host Saturday Night Live’s Premiere

12/09/2008 05:41

Talk about a fish out of water.

Michael Phelps steps out of his chlorinated comfort zone to host the season premiere of "Saturday Night Live" this weekend, treading the same stage where his comedy idol Chris Farley once got big laughs.

The swimmer who won a record-setting eight gold medals at last month's Olympics has been riding a pop culture wave since Beijing, making the rounds of the TV talk shows, presenting at MTV's Video Music Awards and being gossiped about in the tabloids.

Phelps follows in the athletic footsteps of such jocks as LeBron James, Peyton Manning, Derek Jeter and Michael Jordan, who also hosted NBC's late-night sketch show.

"I was a little nervous coming into this whole thing, but I've actually started to get really, really excited," Phelps said Thursday on a conference call from New York. "I'm definitely looking forward to Saturday. This is a completely new experience for me, but something that is going to be pretty fun."

More from Canadian Press.

SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:

It’s simply amazing what eight Olympic gold medals will do for you, isn’t it?

Bucs’ Quarterback Garcia Thinks Benching Is Undeserved

12/09/2008 05:40

TAMPA, Fla. - Tampa Bay's Jeff Garcia wasn't happy with his performance in a season-opening loss to New Orleans, however he didn't think it was poor enough to cost him his starting job.

The Buccaneers quarterback spoke out Thursday about coach Jon Gruden's decision to bench him following a 24-20 loss to the Saints. Brian Griese will start Sunday's home opener against Atlanta.

"Having only played one game, I would have liked to have been given a chance to battle through whatever I

Garcia said. "I mean, there are some quarterbacks out there that played worse than I did last week."

Gruden announced the change Wednesday, two days after the coach revealed Garcia sprained an ankle against the Saints and would be listed as questionable to play this week.

In turning the offence over to Griese, however, the coach made it clear that the decision was not based on the injury.

More from Canadian Press.

SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:

How do I put this nicely – the former Calgary Stampeder, Jeff Garcia, is a whiner.

Couples Combined Ages Equal 205 Years Old

11/09/2008 05:39

DEVOTED Ralph and Phyllis Tarrant cuddle up as they celebrate becoming Britain’s oldest married couple yesterday – with a combined age of 205.

Ralph, 105, and his wife claimed the title when she turned 100.
They will celebrate their 75th wedding anniversary along with Phyllis’s birthday at a party later this month.

The Tarrants still live in their own home, with Phyllis cooking and cleaning while Ralph does the shopping.

1976 ... a Yugoslavia holiday

She said the secret of their long lives was “getting on with each other, a good diet, exercise, avoiding cigarettes and a tot of whisky each night”.

The Sheffield couple – who have daughters Brenda, 71, and Christine, 61, seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren – met when Phyllis was 14.

Their romance began four years later and they married on July 8, 1933.
Phyllis, who worked as a typist at a steelworks, keeps busy with a church lunch club and loves opera, playing the piano and Sheffield Wednesday.

She said: “I suppose I should be counted as old, but I don’t feel it. I’m just so pleased to have retained my health – and my marbles.”

Former insurance worker Ralph – an RAF corporal during the war – said: “We like to get out and about.”

SINC SAYS:

That’s quite an achievement and a lot to be proud of in today’s divorce prone world.

The Things That People Send Me . . .

11/09/2008 05:33

US Man Has Eaten 23,000 Big Macs Since 1972

11/09/2008 05:31

FOND DU LAC, Wisconsin - Don Gorske says he has eaten 23,000 of McDonald's Big Mac burgers in 36 years.

The Wisconsin man said he hit the 23,000 milestone last month, continuing a culinary obsession that began May 17, 1972, and is fed by his obsessive-compulsive disorder.

"I enjoy them every day," said Gorske, 54. "I need two to fill me up."

Gorske has kept every burger receipt in a box. He says he was always fascinated with numbers, and watching McDonald's track its number of customers motivated him to track his own consumption.

Chew on this story here.

SINC SAYS:

My God, I can hardly get one of those things down, never mind two at a time.

Police: Man Blames Bad Driving On Spilled Beer

11/09/2008 05:28

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. - A man with four previous drunken driving convictions who was stopped for weaving in and out of traffic on Interstate 40 was ready with an excuse for his poor driving: his passenger spilled his beer.

Not surprisingly, the man was arrested just before midnight Saturday, said state police officer Kurtis Ward, who said he initially thought the driver was joking.
"He was so matter of fact about it, like it wasn’t a big deal," Ward said.

The 31-year-old man was allegedly too drunk to perform field sobriety tests and was arrested on aggravated drunken driving charges, court records said.

Ward found four opened bottles of beer in the car, court records showed.

It was the man’s sixth DWI arrest. He had been found guilty of three previous drunken driving charges and has paid $1,750 in fines, the DWI Resource Center said.

SINC SAYS:

Honest occifer, I only had one beer.

Colour Cartoons Of The Day . . .

11/09/2008 05:25

Sac State Grad Selling Her Virginity For Tuition

11/09/2008 05:23

SACRAMENTO - A Sacramento State grad is trying to make money the old fashioned way, by auctioning off her virginity to help pay for her graduate studies. And so far, bidding is up to $250,000.

The 21-year-old who is using the pseudonym Natalie Dylan for safety reasons is going through a legal brothel in Nevada to sell her virginity. Dylan says she's already taken a polygraph test to prove her virginal status, and is also willing to undergo a medical exam.

The auction will take place at the Bunny Ranch in Carson City, Nevada with bids coming in through their website. Owner Dennis Hof tells CBS13 that eBay rejected the auction, so he'll handle the entire process.

Hof says Dylan is a bright, beautiful young woman who's going to consider a number of factors in her decision because she wants her first time to be a positive experience. "Natalie is a very smart girl. All she wants to do is get her master's degree in family and marriage counseling and be a psychologist. She's selling her virginity to accomplish that," Hof told CBS13. "She's smart enough to sell it. This is empowering her."

Full story here.

SINC SAYS:

Honest folks, you can’t make this kind of stuff up.

The Musings Of Maxine . . .

11/09/2008 05:21

Monkey Sought After It Scampers Away From Sanctuary

11/09/2008 05:19

From CBC News

PICTON, Ont. - A monkey remains is on the loose after escaping from the Bergeron Exotic Animal Sanctuary near Picton, Ont.

The primate is a brown macaw monkey with a red face, long brown hair and weighs about 11 kilograms. It escaped from the mini-zoo on Tuesday.

Prince Edward County provincial police say the monkey isn't aggressive but should not be approached.

Dr. Richard Schabas. the local medical officer of health, says the monkey can carry the Herpes-B virus, which is dangerous to humans.

The Bergeron sanctuary opened in 1994 and is home to a variety of animals, many of which are zoo surplus.

SINC SAYS:

If you saw one in your back yard while having a beer on the deck, it might just put you off booze for a while.

11/09/2008 05:15

What are the handles for corn on the cob called?

Why do British people never sound British when they sing?

Why do we press the start button to turn off the computer?

Were Mary and Joseph's surname Christ before Jesus was born?

If a bunch of cats jump on top of each other, is it still called a dog pile?

Do sheep get static cling when they rub against one another?

Crosby, Therrien Deliver Penguins' Season Tickets

11/09/2008 05:14

PITTSBURGH - Sidney Crosby delivered for the Pittsburgh Penguins - again.

This time, he did it off the ice.

Crosby, coach Michel Therrien and eight other players hand carried season tickets to 35 randomly selected Penguins ticket holders on Wednesday.

Crosby, wearing a Penguins jersey and blue jeans, took tickets to Mount Lebanon resident David Disney, a season ticket holder since the Penguins' inception in 1967, and Karen and Guy Bradford of the Edgewood section of Pittsburgh.

''It's a pretty unique thing we do,'' Crosby said. ''I think it's nice we do it.''

None of the families were told in advance the players were coming.

Joining Crosby in knocking on front doors were Marc-Andre Fleury, Jordan Staal, Sergei Gonchar, Brooks Orpik, Maxime Talbot, Tyler Kennedy, Pascal Dupuis and Jeff Taffe.

''This is a tremendous opportunity to say thank you,'' Penguins president David Morehouse said.

The Penguins sold out all of their home games for the first time in team history last season while reaching the Stanley Cup final. They also expect another full-season sellout this season.

SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:

It’s kind of a nice touch, don’t you think? It reminds me of the time in the mid-1990s, after a call to Peter Pocklington to complain about the way I had been treated by the Edmonton Oilers’ marketing staff, he had Dave Semenko personally deliver my new season tickets to my office.

Top Prospects For 2009 NHL Entry Draft

11/09/2008 05:13

What we have here, folks, is a horse race.

Unlike last year, when Steven Stamkos went wire to wire as the undisputed No. 1, the race for top spot in the 2009 NHL Entry Draft is expected to be a hotly-contested battle between Swedish defenceman Victor Hedman and Oshawa General sniper John Tavares.

And if either of them should slip or stumble, Spokane defenceman Jared Cowen and/or Brampton centre Matt Duchene are seen as legitimate threats to step up and perhaps challenge for the top spot.

But in TSN's poll of 10 NHL scouts to obtain TSN's Pre-Season Top 10 for the 2009 NHL Entry Draft, it is Hedman who starts with top billing, with six first-place votes and 96 of a possible 100 points (10 points for a first-place vote descending to a one point for a 10th-place vote). Tavares is right behind the 6-foot-7 Swede, with four first-place votes and 93 voting points.

SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:

To read TSN hockey analyst Bob McKenzie’s complete list of the 2009 top prospects, click here.

Even Without Brady, Favre Says Pats Team To Beat

11/09/2008 05:13

FLORHAM PARK, N.J. - Brett Favre brushed up on his recent AFC East history and discovered what he already figured. It's mostly been New England at the top, and then everyone else.

"The Patriots really have had the upper hand on everybody in this division for quite a while," the New York Jets quarterback said Wednesday. "They've really dominated everyone, not just in this division. We'd like to change that."

They could start this Sunday when the teams meet in the latest chapter of their intense rivalry, especially with Tom Brady lost for the year due to a knee injury.

Some fans and members of the media believe there will certainly be a dropoff with Matt Cassel now leading New England. The AFC East will be a wide-open race, they say, and the Jets have a good chance to dethrone the Patriots, who have won the division six of the last seven seasons.

Hold on just a second, Favre insists.

More from Canadian Press.

SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:

Interesting anyalysis by Favre, but excuse me if I have to strongly disagree with Brett on this one.

Matthews’ Surprise Return Is Good For CFL

11/09/2008 05:12

"The one thing that I've finally figured out is that I'd rather be at the top of the mountain as a hated person than at the bottom ... as a loved person."

- Don Matthews, 2004

It has been almost two years since Don Matthews left Montreal - after close to five years as the head coach of the Alouettes - under mysterious circumstances and conditions.

He said he resigned for health reasons. We suggested he was fired after the Als, who began the 2006 season with seven straight victories, lost their next six before Matthews won his final game as Montreal's head coach. People in the organization to this day swear it was the former and, really, is there any point regurgitating history?

The Don is back and, for one day at least, the Argonauts become front-page news in Toronto, with nearly everyone talking about the Canadian Football League. That's all that matters. And it's good to have him back - at least for those of us who don't have to deal with him on a daily basis. Better them than us is what every beat writer outside Toronto is thinking today.

More from the Montreal Gazette.

SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:

Only time will tell what kind of outrageous stunts “The Don” tries to pull this time around.

First Phase Of Vancouver 2010 Ticket Sales Begins

11/09/2008 05:12

Vancouver, BC - The once in a lifetime experience of the Olympic Games became more real on Wednesday as details were released on nightly Victory Ceremonies tickets as well as important information Canadian ticket buyers will need to know to get ready to buy tickets when they go on sale October 3, 2008.

Approximately 30,000 tickets overall will be available for each nightly Olympic Victory Ceremony at BC Place - 10,000 will be free through a program that will be unveiled in 2009 and up to 20,000 will be sold for $22. The Ceremonies will pay tribute to the athletes as the International Olympic Committee (IOC) recognizes the day's accomplishments in the presence of the Olympic Flame. Following the medal presentations, the athletes' triumphs will be honoured with a celebration concert featuring renowned entertainers.

Including the nightly Olympic Victory Ceremonies, approximately two million tickets will be available for the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Winter Games with more than 400,000 tickets priced at $25 or less and more than half of all tickets priced at $100 or less.

''With just weeks remaining before tickets go on sale, now is the time for Canadians to get ready to create their own unforgettable Olympic experience in 2010. We are particularly excited to wet everyone's appetite with new details on the nightly Victory Ceremonies at BC Place,'' said Dave Cobb, Executive Vice President for the Vancouver Organizing Committee for the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games (VANOC).

The 2010 Olympic Winter Games marks the first time an organizing committee has combined the Opening, Closing and Victory Ceremonies in one venue, BC Place. In addition to the comfort of an indoor venue, the stadium setting also allows VANOC to create a unified Olympic Winter Games story that unfolds in three distinct chapters - the Opening Ceremony, the nightly Victory Ceremonies and the Closing Ceremony. Victory Ceremonies will also be held each night in the Whistler Celebration Plaza and details regarding tickets and access will be announced in the near future.

With the countdown on to the start of ticket sales, the following information and reminders were released today.

SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:

For more information on how to obtain tickets to the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympic Games, click here.

Green Leader Allowed Into Debates, Networks Confirm

10/09/2008 15:54

UPDATE:

Green Leader Elizabeth May will be allowed into the federal leaders' debates, Canada's main broadcasters confirmed late Wednesday afternoon.

The networks, including the CBC, had originally ruled on Monday that May could not participate because three of Canada's parties were opposed to her inclusion.

The broadcasters changed course after Conservative Leader Stephen Harper and NDP Leader Jack Layton indicated earlier Wednesday that they no longer oppose May's participation in the debates on Oct. 1 and Oct. 2.

May said she was happy the networks' original decision was reversed.

CBC News details here.

SINC SAYS:

I guess if you upset enough people, you get your way, but don't expect this move to better the debate. It will split the time available by five rather than by four.

Exclusion Of Green Party From Debate Angers Reader

10/09/2008 04:11

Don,

I tried to let this go all day thinking that I would cool down about it, but the more I thought about it, the angrier I got. I just had to write this letter to the editor to the local papers and figured I’d send you a copy as well. Am I out to lunch or is this totally absurd?

To the editor,

Two days into the campaign, and Steven Harper has already managed to lose my vote. After more than 10 years of supporting the Reform, the Alliance, and until yesterday the Conservatives, I will have to find another party or candidate to vote for October 14th.

No, it wasn’t a major policy statement on foreign affairs, healthcare, or even the environment that turned me off, but rather a childish move on day one of the election by little Stevie Harper. It appears as if little Stevie has a hard time making new friends and doesn’t play very well with the other kids in the playground.

I’m speaking of course of his recent refusal to take part in any on air debate which included Elizabeth May and the Green Party. Now I don’t know very much about the Green Party, but I do know that they earned enough of the vote in the last election to receive official party status, and that they have every right to be included in the national debates. In fact, even the national media conglomerates planed to include her in the debates until Harper informed them that he wouldn’t show up if the Green Party was there.

His reasoning? Apparently the Green Party and the Liberals have agreed not to run candidates against each other in some ridings. So what! This type of political maneuvering has been going on for years and Harper should be above that. Besides, the Bloc have a seat at the debate and they are only running candidates in one province! As a former councilor,

I spend a lot of time defending politicians to the cynics as honest hard working people like you and I because for the most part that’s exactly what they are. This crass move by Harper however flies in the face of all that it means to play fair and that is not the kind of leader or party I want heading up this great country.

Neil Korotash
St. Albert

SINC SAYS:

You of all people should know that one is entitled to their opinion on an given issue, including this one. I am most happy to use your letter today and you are likely not alone in your opinion.

I do not share your anger over the issue, however. The rule has always been that until a party elects an MP to Parliament, it is considered a "fringe" party and that is exactly where the Green Party sits right now. Our multi-party system is bad enough with four, never mind five major parties splitting the vote so badly we could very well wind up like Italy, sometimes nearly dysfunctional due to vote splitting.

I wish people who grew angry with the system would focus their anger on the Bloc in Quebec. Why in hell's name should a provincial party be allowed to run in a federal election and potentially be allowed to hold the role of her majesty's official opposition when their stated goal is to break up this "great country" as you call it?

If Canadians rose in anger over this situation and had it corrected to throw the Bloc out of the debates, and out of federal politics, they would be doing a far better thing than worrying about a fringe party like the Greens.

Thanks for writing with your viewpoint.

READER RESPONSE:

Neil is right on with his letter to the editor today!

Elke Blodgett

Play With This Animated Spider

10/09/2008 04:11

An experimental project to make a natural spider in Flash, combining math and graphics. You are welcome to send feedback.

You can even feed the thing insects and it looks too real for me.

But it is entertaining to feed him insects.

Life-like action here.

Stolen Mechanical Gorilla . . .

10/09/2008 03:53

Turns up in Vermont cornfield with ransom demand

From CBC News

EAST MACHIAS, Maine - A large mechanical gorilla that was swiped in broad daylight from outside a store in Maine has turned up several hundred kilometres away - with an apologetic ransom demand.

The arm-waving, 2.5-metre tall primate disappeared during the Labour Day weekend and store owner Lowell Miller and his wife, Sandy, marvelled at how such a big ape on a heavy base could have been taken without attracting attention.
Its creator, Ken Booth of the Gorilla Robot Factory in Akron, Ohio, helped out by posting a YouTube video seeking the gorilla's return and offering a reward.

Then another video turned up on YouTube, showing a hooded person demanding a $1 million ransom - apologizing for causing a flap. "I didn't know it'd be such a big deal," the hooded abductor said.
Now the gorilla - named "Seemore," as in "See More at Sandy's Sales" - has turned up in a cornfield at Swanton, Vt.

Sandy Miller intends to press charges.

SINC SAYS:

I’ve never quite understood firms who use these kinds of things to attract customers. I mean a giant inflatable gorilla stuck on the roof of a car dealership always confirms for me that I have no wish to deal with the juvenile minds who came up with the idea. I drive down the road to a “normal” dealership in that case.

10/09/2008 03:51

Saturday morning I got up early, put on my long johns, dressed quietly, made my lunch, grabbed the dog, slipped quietly into the garage to hook the boat up to the truck, and proceeded to back out into a torrential downpour.

There was snow mixed with the rain, and the wind was blowing 50 mph. I pulled back into the garage, turned on the radio, and discovered that the weather would be bad throughout the day.

I went back into the house, quietly undressed, and slipped back into bed. There I cuddled up to my wife's back, now with a different anticipation,and whispered, 'The weather out there is terrible.'

My loving wife of twenty years replied, 'Can you believe my stupid husband is out fishing in that weather?'

I still don't know if she was joking.

Now Why Didn’t I Think Of That Department

10/09/2008 03:48

Every once in a while someone comes up with an idea so simple, yet so different it is mind boggling.

This is one of them.

Description
20 Amp, 125 Volt, NEMA 5-20R, 2P, 3W, Acenti Triplex Receptacle, Straight Blade, Premium Grade, Self Grounding, Back & Side Wired, Nickel-Plated Steel Strap, - Alabaster

Features and Benefits

• Industry's First Intregrated Triplex Receptacle
• Provides three outlets that can accept 3 plugs simultaneously, eliminating the cluttered look of power-strips or necessity for multi-outtlet adapters
• Efficient construction with consistant form factor
• Innovative contoured geometry offers an exclusive aesthetic design
• Flawless multigang installation with no dividers or frame between devices
• All visible surfaces molded from engineering-grade polymer for uniformity and flawless color match
• Subtle, matte finish complements fine decor
• Listed to UL498 and Certified to CSA C22.2 No. 42
• Premium Grade with Five-Year Limited Warranty

The Musings Of Maxine . . .

10/09/2008 03:46

Still Smoking? - You Might Want To Ask Yourself Why!

10/09/2008 03:43

Big Tobacco covered up radiation danger

TOBACCO companies have covered up for 40 years the fact that cigarette smoke contains a dangerous radioactive substance that exposes heavy smokers to the radiation equivalent of having 300 chest X-rays a year.

Internal company records reveal that cigarette manufacturers knew that tobacco contained polonium-210 but avoided drawing public attention to the fact for fear of "waking a sleeping giant".

Polonium-210 emits alpha radiation estimated to cause about 11,700 lung cancer deaths each year worldwide. Russian dissident and writer Alexander Litvinenko died after being poisoned with polonium-210 in 2006.

The polonium-210 in tobacco plants comes from high-phosphate fertilisers used on crops. The fertiliser is manufactured from rocks that contain radioisotopes such as polonium-210 (PO-210).

The radioactive substance is absorbed through the plant's roots and deposited on its leaves.

People who smoke one-and-a-half packets of cigarettes a day are exposed to as much radiation as they would receive from 300 chest X-rays a year, according to research.

Disgusting details here.

SINC SAYS:

I quit eight years and 17 days ago, but who’s counting?

newsbanner

More Helpful Tips For The Senior Crowd

10/09/2008 03:36

I am always amazed how readers who send this type of material want to remain anonymous. I think it is healthy to laugh at ourselves and I take these kinds of things as part of the fun of having a web site.

Lovemaking Tips For Seniors:

1. Put on your glasses. Double check that your partner is actually in bed with you.

2. Set timer for two minutes, just in case you doze off in the middle.

3. Set the mood with lighting. Turn them OFF!

4. Make sure you put 911 on your speed dial before you begin.

5. Write partner's name on your hand just in case you can't remember.

6. Keep the Polygrip close by so your teeth don't end up under the bed.

7. Have Extra-Strength Tylenol ready just in case you actually complete what you started.

8. Make all the noise you want. The neighbors are deaf too.

9. If it happens, call everyone you know with the good news.

10. Don't even think about trying it twice.

Argos Replace Stubler With . . . "The Don"

10/09/2008 03:35

The Don is back.

The Toronto Argonauts announced Tuesday that head coach Rich Stubler has been fired and former Argo coach Don Matthews has been hired as his replacement.

"The ship was heading in the wrong direction and we felt we had to bring in a new captain to put us in the best position to win each week, prepare us for the playoffs and build toward the Grey Cup. We wanted to bring Toronto fans the best and we believe the best is Don Matthews," said Argos GM Adam Rita.

The move marks Matthews' third go-around with the Boatmen. He previously coached the team in 1990 and from 1996 to 1998, winning back-to-back Grey Cups with the Doug Flutie-led teams in 1996 and 1997.

"Being reunited with Adam, Pinball, Steve, Bill, Kavis, Nick and all my friends at the Argos excites me. We have had a lot of success together. The big picture was always on my mind – it is imperative that Toronto have a strong franchise on the field. I have had success here in the past and it is my intention to help do it again," Matthews said in a statement.

More from TSN.

SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:

Maybe Stubler had to go, alright, but to replace him with “The Don?” I’m not sure that was the brightest move the Argos have ever made.

Armstrong Determined To Win Eighth Tour De France

10/09/2008 03:34

AUSTIN, Texas - Lance Armstrong is getting back on his bike, determined to win an eighth Tour de France.

Armstrong's return from cancer to win the Tour a record seven consecutive times made him a hero to cancer patients worldwide and elevated cycling to an unprecedented level in America.

The 36-year-old Armstrong told Vanity Fair in an exclusive interview posted on its website Tuesday that he was inspired to return after finishing second last month in the Leadville 100, a lung-searing 160-kilometre mountain bike race through the Colorado Rockies.

"This kind of obscure bike race totally kick-started my engine," he told the magazine. "I'm going to try and win an eighth Tour de France."

More from Canadian Press.

SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:

More power to Lance Armstrong as he comes out of retirement and tries to raise the awareness of the global cancer burden.

Kicker Ryan To Sign With Seattle Seahawks

10/09/2008 03:34

Canadian-born punter Jon Ryan is set to sign with the NFL's Seattle Seahawks today, one week after being released by the Green Bay Packers

The Packers cut the 26-year-old Regina native in favour of Derrick Frost, who had been released by the Washington Redskins.

Ryan began his pro football career in the CFL, spending the 2004 and '05 seasons with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers before joining the Packers in 2006.

Ryan performed well in Green Bay, averaging 44.5 yards per punt over his two-year stint with the NFL club. He registered 35 punts inside the opposition's 20-yard line.

Ryan posted a CFL-record 50.6-yard punting average with Winnipeg in 2005 and would be free to sign with any Canadian team of his choice. But a CFL source requesting anonymity said he figures Ryan's future remains in the NFL and that he's confident the Canadian punter will land with another team in the U.S.

SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:

Good for the Regina-born Ryan. His release was just another in a long series of baffling moves by the Green Bay Packers this off-season. He’s a great punter.

Wie Enters Qualifying School For LPGA Tour

10/09/2008 03:33

Unable to earn her card through sponsor exemptions, Michelle Wie has entered the LPGA Tour qualifying school and will play the first stage next week on the California course where she first rose to fame at age 13.

Her father, B.J. Wie, had said at the U.S. Women's Open that Wie had "no other options" but Q-school if she didn't make enough money to finish the equivalent of 80th of the LPGA Tour money list.

"Nothing has changed since then," he said Tuesday morning from Palm Desert, Calif. "She will go to Q-school."

The first stage will be at Mission Hills in Rancho Mirage, Calif., site of the Kraft Nabisco Championship, where Wie played in the final group of the LPGA's first major when she was in the eighth grade.

Wie turned pro in 2005 and a year later had at least a share of the lead on the back nine of three majors. Her career went into a tailspin shortly after that, when she tried to play through wrist injuries, withdrew from the Ginn Tribute when she was on the verge of shooting 88 and facing suspension, and continued to play the occasional event on men's tours.

She has not won any tournament since the U.S. Women's Amateur Public Links in 2003 at age 13.

More from Canadian Press.

SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:

It will be very interesting to see if Wie can earn her LPGA card. Don’t bet on it.

Slovakia’s Women’s Ice Hockey Team Pummels Bulgaria 82-0

10/09/2008 03:32

BRATISLAVA, Slovakia (AP) -- With more goals than minutes in the game, Slovakia's women's ice hockey team claimed an amazing 82-0 victory over Bulgaria in Olympic qualifying.

Slovakia outshot the Bulgarians 139-0 during the 60-minute game, played in Latvia. The margin of victory is a record for a women's International Ice Hockey Federation-sanctioned event.

"We took it as training," Slovakia coach Miroslav Karafiat said after Saturday's game.

Janka Culikova led Slovakia with 10 goals, while Martina Velickova scored nine. Fourteen different players scored at least one goal.

Slovakia, which also beat Croatia, Latvia and Italy, advanced to another qualifying group with Germany, Kazakhstan and France. The winner will secure a spot at the 2010 Vancouver Olympics.

Bulgaria was eliminated after scoring one goal and conceding 192 in the tournament.

More from Sports Illustrated.

SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:

Why the heck would you do such a thing to another team and, really, what do you suppose the other team was doing as they were being pummelled? It makes you wonder if they could even actually skate, doesn’t it?

Young Football Players Trash Talk Off Field Out Of Hand

10/09/2008 03:32

Officials with the Manitoba Minor Football Association are investigating threats allegedly made on the internet by teenaged members of one team against members of a rival team.

The threats were allegedly made by a couple of North Winnipeg Nomads players against rivals on the Crescentwood Grizzlies on the popular social-networking website Facebook. The players are at the bantam level, for 14-year-old boys and girls.

Parents and coaches of the Grizzlies players took the threats so seriously that they cancelled a game against the Nomads last weekend.

The coach of the Grizzlies did not respond to CBC's request for an interview, but Jim Carson, manager of the Crescentwood Community Club, said action had to be taken.

"You leave it on the field. This went beyond that, whether the kids that did it realize it or not," he said. "The threat had to be taken seriously."

More from CBC Sports.

SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:

Why does this story not surprise me? To be honest, I’ve heard a lot of negative feedback about the social networking site “facebook” and what transpires on that Internet site.

Injured Horse "Molly" Gives Hope To Others

09/09/2008 06:14

Meet Molly. She's a grey speckled pony who was abandoned by her owners when Hurricane Katrina hit southern Louisiana. She spent weeks on her own before finally being rescued and taken to a farm where abandoned animals were stockpiled. While there, she was attacked by a pit bull terrier and almost died. Her gnawed right front leg became infected, and her vet went to LSU for help, but LSU was overwhelmed, and this pony was a welfare case. You know how that goes.

But after surgeon Rustin Moore met Molly, he changed his mind. He saw how the pony was careful to lie down on different sides so she didn't seem to get sores, and how she allowed people to handle her. She protected her injured leg. She constantly shifted her weight and didn't overload her good leg. She was a smart pony with a serious survival ethic.

Moore agreed to remove her leg below the knee, and a temporary artificial limb was built. Molly walked out of the clinic and her story really begins there.

'This was the right horse and the right owner,' Moore insists. Molly happened to be a one-in-a-million patient. She's tough as nails, but sweet, and she was willing to cope with pain. She made it obvious she understood that she was in trouble. The other important factor, according to Moore , is having a truly committed and compliant owner who is dedicated to providing the daily care required over the lifetime of the horse.

Molly's story turns into a parable for life in post-Katrina Louisiana . The little pony gained weight, and her mane finally felt a comb. A human prosthesis designer built her a leg.

The prosthetic has given Molly a whole new life, Allison Barca DVM, Molly's regular vet, reports.

And she asks for it. She will put her little limb out, and come to you and let you know that she wants you to put it on. Sometimes she wants you to take it off too. And sometimes, Molly gets away from Barca. 'It can be pretty bad when you can't catch a three-legged horse,' she laughs.

Most important of all, Molly has a job now. Kay, the rescue farm owner, started taking Molly to shelters, hospitals, nursing homes, and rehabilitation centers. Anywhere she thought that people needed hope. Wherever Molly went, she showed people her pluck. She inspired people, and she had a good time doing it.

'It's obvious to me that Molly had a bigger role to play in life', Moore said. 'She survived the hurricane,' she survived a horrible injury, and now she is giving hope to others.'

Barca concluded, 'She's not back to normal, but she's going to be better. To me, she could be a symbol for New Orleans itself.'

This is Molly's most recent prosthesis. The bottom photo shows the ground surface that she stands on, which has a smiley face embossed in it. Wherever Molly goes, she leaves a smiley hoof print behind.

Election Quotes By George!

09/09/2008 06:09

It’s election time folks and long time St. Albert’s Place reader George Proulx figures it’s time to get us thinking about politicians with a few quotes.

Hi Don:
Here are a number of "quotes" that you might consider for St. Albert’s Place:

1) "The government solution to a problem is usually as bad as the problem" Milton Friedman

2) "One of the penalties for refusing to participate in politics is that you end up being governed by your inferiors" Plato

3) "Government is like a baby. An alimentary canal with a big appetite at one end and no sense of responsibilty at the other" Ronald Reagan

4) "In politics, stupidity is not a handicap" Napoleon

5) "We'd all like to vote for the best man but he's never a candidate" Kim Hubbard

6) "Politics is the art of choosing between the disastrous and the unpalatable" John Kennetrh Gilbraith

7) "Action speaks louder than words, but not nearly as often" Mark Twain.

8) "Nothing is so admirable in politics as a short memory." John Kenneth Gilbraith

9) "Commitments the voters don't know about can't hurt you." Ogden Nash

10) " Our elections are free, it's the results that hurt you." Bill Stern

09/09/2008 06:07

When I was younger I hated going to weddings.

It seemed that all of my aunts and the grand-motherly types used to come up to me, poke me in the ribs and cackle, telling me:

'YOU'RE NEXT'.

They stopped that crap after I started doing the same thing to them at funerals.

KFC Temporarily Moving Secret Recipe

09/09/2008 06:04

In order to ramp up security

LOUISVILLE, Ky. - The secret's out at KFC.
Colonel Harland Sanders' handwritten recipe of 11 herbs and spices was to be removed Tuesday from safekeeping at KFC's corporate offices for the first time in decades.

The temporary relocation is allowing KFC to revamp security around a yellowing sheet of paper that contains one of the country's most famous corporate secrets.

KFC hired off-duty police officers and private security guards to whisk the document away to an undisclosed location in an armored car.

The recipe will be slid into a briefcase and handcuffed to a security expert.

For more than 20 years, the recipe has been tucked away in a filing cabinet equipped with two combination locks in company headquarters.

Chew on this story here.

SINC SAYS:

Secret recipe eh? You would think when science can crack DNA code, they could easily buy a piece of the stuff and crack the recipe, wouldn’t you?

cfcw

Those Old Westerns Still Bring Back Memories

09/09/2008 05:59

If you’re a fan of old western movies, (and really folks, who isn’t?) here is a site you must visit:

See them all here.

It was sent to us by a reader and brought back many fond memories of my childhood and Saturday afternoon matinees. It also fostered thoughts of fresh popcorn, fountain drinks, strawberry liquorice, Nibs, Thrills and Double Bubble gum.

Enjoy!

Croc Critics Can Take Some Comfort

09/09/2008 05:51

A fashion-forward friend once quipped, “When I see someone wearing Crocs, I immediately know we have nothing in common,” so it comes as no surprise that news of Toronto's first-ever Crocs emporium, set to open up on Toronto's über-trendy Queen West stretch, doesn't exactly have local fashionistas over the moon with excitement. But style snobs, take heed: This won't be the first time a not-so-attractive piece of apparel has risen to inexplicably ubiquitous popularity, but has failed to withstand the test of time (as Crocs presumably — or hopefully — will). Here then is a Top 5 roundup of recent, terrible trends that have since faded into oblivion — or your local Value Village.

Cargo pants
Thanks largely to baggy-clothing champions Limp Bizkit, Korn and their fellow rap-rockers, cargo pants were de rigeur in the late '90s and early part of this decade. Characterized by pockets aplenty and enough slack in each pant leg to accommodate a second wearer, cargo pants remain practical for military personnel and those on safari, but since the advent of the skinny jean, they are no longer acceptable in the mainstream.

Modrobes
Toronto-based clothier Modrobes, with their rainbow-hued, wide-legged, raver-friendly polyester pants, rose to popularity around the same time as cargo pants. Like Crocs, their foray into fashion fame facilitated the opening of a Modrobes boutique on — you guessed it — Queen West. The store closed in 2006, and after a decade-long run, the Modrobes brand no longer exists anywhere but thrift-store clothing racks.

Frosted Tips
The popularity of this hair-colouring trend coincided with the rise and fall of studio-manufactured boy bands such as N*Sync and the Backstreet Boys. Sported largely by men, this hairstyle involved the meticulous spiking of one's hair, either preceded by a bleach-blond dye-job mimicking overgrown roots, or the application of specialized, coloured “spiking gel” to the hair's outermost inch.

Trucker Hats
Many thanks to Ashton Kutcher for this one. The trucker hat was popular for such a brief time — between 2001 and 2003 — that the sheer volume and variety available was nothing short of astounding. The mesh-backed, stiff-brimmed caps were most often worn by men, most often adorned with beer logos and were most often spotted at gatherings wherein other men were addressed as “guy.”

Ironic Graphic Tees
This one hasn't been in the can for too long, but it raged completely out of control before it began to drop off the radar in favour of more artfully silkscreened tops. Since its rise to fame a few years back, the ironic t-shirt has spawned dozens – if not hundreds – of websites hawking “funny t-shirts,” “offensive t-shirts,” or just plain old “printed t-shirts.” Slogans range from “Stop staring at me” to “Ninjas make better lovers,” though recent “Hillary is my homegirl” and “Barack the vote” tees suggest that this trend isn't going to disappear quietly.

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DAY OUT PERKS FOR PERVERTS ATTACKED

09/09/2008 05:35

FURY erupted last night over plans to send convicted paedophiles and rapists on trips to the cinema and art galleries.

The scheme will cost taxpayers £12,000 for every pervert signed up for the “ridiculous jolly outings”.

They will be assigned “friends” and can look forward to meals out and afternoons at the pictures.

Police and probation officers hope the project will help offenders – including dangerous child abusers – be rehabilitated to rejoin society.

On release from prison high-risk convicts will be allocated a circle of “friends” who are there to guide them away from re-offending.

But Michele Elliott, of child protection charity Kidscape, said: “If we’re paying for these outings, that’s ridiculous.

“Sex offenders are manipulative and cunning. I worry well-intentioned friends supporting them could be duped.”

A spokesman for Greater Manchester Police, which is to pilot the scheme, said: “Our chief aims are to protect the public and prevent re-offending.”

SINC SAYS:

Aren’t you glad this is only happening in Great Britain and not here? I mean we don’t coddle criminals here, do we? Oh, wait a minute . . .

It's All About Respect Folks . . .

09/09/2008 05:28

A St. Albert's Place reader who chose to really stay anonymous, dropped this cartoon off to us.

A note went on to say that respect is everything and seeing as we're having an election, he or she figures we get about as much respect from politicians as these aliens are about to get.

I suspect we're going to hear a lot about election bits in the next few weeks, so if you have an election related item, by all means get it in to us soon.

Federer Wins Fifth Straight U.S. Open In Three Sets

09/09/2008 05:27

NEW YORK - No matter what anyone else said or thought, Roger Federer knew he was still capable of elite tennis.

Knew he was still capable of winning Grand Slam titles.

Knew he was still Roger Federer.

Back at his best, back at the top of tennis, Federer easily beat Andy Murray 6-2, 7-5, 6-2 Monday to win his fifth consecutive U.S. Open championship and 13th major title overall.

Federer is the first man since Bill Tilden in the 1920s to win the tournament that many times in a row. He also moved within one major championship of tying Pete Sampras' career record of 14.

"One thing's for sure," Federer said in an on-court interview. "I'm not going to stop at 13. That would be terrible."

More from Canadian Press.

SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:

What an amazing accomplishment by Federer – five U.S. Open championships in a row, the first to accomplish the feat since 1920, and 13 overall Grand Slam titles.

Jury Selection Begins In O. J. Simpson Robbery Case

09/09/2008 05:26

LAS VEGAS - Nearly a year after O.J. Simpson walked into a casino hotel room intent on reclaiming some sports memorabilia, he and his lawyers walked into a courthouse Monday to pick jurors for his robbery-kidnapping trial.

The fallen NFL star, actor and advertising pitchman, and his remaining co-defendant, Clarence "C.J" Stewart, a 54-year-old golfing buddy from North Las Vegas, have both pleaded not guilty to 12 charges stemming from a heated encounter last September with two sports collectibles dealers peddling Simpson memorabilia at a Las Vegas hotel-casino.

Simpson's arrival at the Clark County Regional Justice Center on Monday morning was much more subdued than previous appearances at the courthouse, with no protesters and few people to greet him.

He declined to answer questions, but smiled and waved when one person called out "Good Luck!"

More from Canadian Press.

SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:

Maybe they’ll get it right this time and chuck him in the slammer for the rest of his life and throw away the key like they should have done last time.

Serena Back On Top With Win At U.S. Open

09/09/2008 05:26

NEW YORK - Serena Williams flung her racket straight up and jumped for joy, hopping and skipping and screaming and generally looking like someone who had just won her first U.S. Open title or earned her debut at No. 1.

Nope.

It sure had been a while, though.

Displaying the talent and tenacity that allowed her to dominate tennis earlier in the decade, Williams outlasted Jelena Jankovic 6-4, 7-5 Sunday night in a thrill-a-minute match chock full of marvellous strokes and momentum swings to win her third U.S. Open championship and ninth Grand Slam title.

And there was this "added bonus," as Williams termed it: She returns to the top of the rankings.

"I think this title meant more to Serena than any title she's ever won," her father and coach, Richard Williams said.

More from Canadian Press.

SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:

I wonder how much longer Serena can continue to dominate the women’s game?

Theo Fleury To Join Bentley Generals

09/09/2008 05:25

Theo Fleury is not finished with hockey just yet.

"I think I'm going to come back to try to win an Allan Cup," Fleury told the Calgary Sun. "It would be nice to add that to the collection."

The plan would be for Fleury to suit up for the Bentley Generals, the Alberta Senior AAA champs who lost in the Allan Cup final last year.

This would be Fleury's second time tyring to win the Allan Cup. In 2005, the 15-year NHL veteran played for the Horse Lake Thunder, but lost in the semifinal.

Should Fleury join the Generals, he would have some familiar company. Brian Sutter, who coached Fleury at his last NHL stop in Chicago, has previously coached the Generals and reportedly will do so again.

SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:

Some guys just don’t know when it’s time to quit.

Tiger-Cats Axe Taaffe, Name Bellefeuille Interim Head Coach

09/09/2008 05:25

Head coach Charlie Taaffe has been fired by the Hamilton Tiger-Cats and offensive co-ordinator Marcel Bellefeuille will take over the reigns on an interim basis for the rest of the season.

The announcement was made a news conference on Monday.

The move comes on the heels of a 35-12 loss to the B.C. Lions at Ivor Wynne Stadium in which running back Jesse Lumsden carried the ball three times for just 20 yards.

"This has not been an easy situation for me," said Tiger-Cats general manager Bob O'Billovich. "I'm not in favour of making a coaching change in the middle of the season but the more I looked at it, Charlie was not the right guy for the situation as it stands now."

More from TSN.

SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:

What a continuing joke the Hamilton Tiger-Cats are. As if Marcel Bellefeuille is the answer. These Pussy Cats have just gone from bad to much worse in SWIVEL HIPS’ opinion.

St. Albert Inside Out . . .

08/09/2008 05:48

Don,

I thought it would be appropriate to share with you some of the key things that we will be focused on in the next few weeks. As you wish to get the Mayor’s or Council’s viewpoint on some of these matters, please ask.

First, we will be reviewing Growth Guidelines ( some elements will be called “smart growth” ), decisions on the Phase 3 of the Ray Gibbon Drive, the opening of Fire Hall # 3, the opening of the Riel Recreation Park, 2009 budget deliberations, short term use of the old RCMP building, Downtown focus groups to name a few.

We will also be working on turning lane planning in Campbell Park, making a decision if the city has a role in the issue of the Power Lines in Lois Hole Park, a review of public art policies, and a review of the Northwest Urban Village. We have funding to do additional trail work in the Oakmont and Erin Ridge areas and efforts are underway to realize the future network in those areas.

We are active in the future development planning north of Villeneuve Road, the long term design of Villeneuve Road, development planning north and east of Wal*Mart, and development planning northwest of North Ridge. We are working with the landowners in Campbell Park and south Riel Park to continue with plans for primarily nonresidential development in those areas.

Nolan Crouse
Mayor
City Of St. Albert

Sinc Says:

St. Albert Inside Out is an occasional column by Mayor Nolan Crouse submitted to St. Albert’s Place and is intended to keep local residents abreast of the ongoing work of city council.

The Things That People Send Me . . .

08/09/2008 05:46

A PINT? . . . THAT'LL BE £7.50

08/09/2008 05:41

THE price of beer will have risen so much by the time of the 2012 Olympics that it is drinkers who’ll be for the high jump.

Industry experts reckon it could treble to around £7.50 a pint when the London Games are here.

And it’s all due to a “perfect storm” of rising costs, disastrous harvests and tough market conditions.

Coors, who brew Grolsch and Carling, are this month slapping 3p on a pint – the second rise this year.

And InBev – the makers of Bass, Stella Artois and Becks – have announced prices will rise by an average 3.3% this month.

A British Beer Association insider predicted costs could begin to spiral out of control next year.

He said: “The £5 pint is a reality in some London bars already and that could spread across the UK by next year.

By the time the Olympics come, I would make a sober prediction of £7.50 a pint – although it could be a lot higher.”?Pubs are already being hit by the credit crunch and the smoking ban.

Now farmers say the next two or three weeks could be the most crucial in the history of the British pint.

They desperately need a dry spell to collect the harvest and are in a race against time to bring in the crops before they rot.

If they fail, then brewers will be left with no alternative but to pay top prices to import malting barley, hops and wheat from abroad.

The current average price of a pint of lager is £2.65, with beer at £2.45, according to the Campaign For Real Ale.?

The organisation is now urging the Government to scrap plans for tax hikes for the next four years.

Spokesman Ian Lowe said: “Prices are already under huge pressure because of the increase in fuel and commodity prices.

“If there is a shortage in barley crops, this will push up prices yet again.?We simply cannot see the case for more increases in excise duty.”

SINC SAYS:

Geez folks, that’s over $15 for a pint of beer or three times plus compared to a pint here in the city.

The Musings Of Maxine . . .

08/09/2008 05:39

Fish Flies Out Of Lake

08/09/2008 05:37

Breaks Arkansas teen's jaw

From CBC News

LITTLE ROCK, Arkansas - It's a fishing tale that packs a wallop so strong it broke the jaw of a southeastern Arkansas teen and covered him in fish blood and guts.

Seth Russell, 15, of Crossett, was cruising Lake Chicot on a large inner tube towed by a boat when a Silver Asian carp leaped from the water and smacked him in the face.

Seth was knocked unconscious.

The teen had oral surgery to wire several teeth together and has back pain doctors attribute to whiplash from the high-speed collision.

He's not the only one who's had a run-in with the "flying" Silver Asian carp.

Carole Engle, director of aquaculture and the fisheries centre at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, says the fish do not fly but they are good jumpers and over the last year, she has had some calls about them causing injuries on Lake Chicot.

"Their jumping behaviour is a problem and their population appears to be growing there," Engle said.

Silver Asian carp were first imported to the United States in the 1970s. Catfish farmers brought them in to remove algae and other suspended matter from their ponds. The Environmental Protection Agency started a program allowing cities to use the fish to help clean the water in sewer-treatment plant ponds.

Seth's mother, Linda Russell, said: "He doesn't remember anything at all."

"He was laughing and the next thing he remembers, he is waking in a hospital."

SINC SAYS:

Seems to me every time we introduce a foreign species to this continent, something goes wrong.

cfcw

08/09/2008 05:35

A guy walked into the local welfare office to pick up his cheque.

He marched straight up to the counter and said, 'Hi. You know, I just HATE drawing welfare, I'd really rather, have a job.'

The social worker behind the counter said, 'Your timing is excellent. We just got a job opening from a very wealthy old man who wants a chauffeur and bodyguard for his beautiful daughter. You'll have to drive around in his Mercedes and he'll supply all of your clothes.

Because of the long hours, meals will be provided. You'll be expected to escort the daughter on her overseas holiday trips and you will have to satisfy her sexual urges. You'll be provided a two-bedroom apartment above the garage. The salary is $200,000 a year.'

The guy, wide-eyed, said, 'You're bullshittin' me!'

The social worker said, 'Yeah, well ... You started it.'

Dousing Firefighter Doster With Accolades

08/09/2008 05:32

John Doster started putting out fires as a 14-year-old in the 1930s with the Edgely Fire Co. in Bristol Township and hasn't stopped volunteering since.

Later this month, the National Volunteer Fire Council will honor Doster's nearly 75 years of service with its Lifetime Achievement Award.

Those 75 years include 25 as the Edgely chief, four as the Bristol Township fire marshal, several more as a deputy county fire marshal and a fire instructor for the county, 3M and Rohm and Haas.

Earlier this year, Doster was recognized as the oldest active volunteer in Pennsylvania by the state's Fire Police Association. But now he's being honored nationally as the longest-serving volunteer in America.

Details here.

SINC SAYS:

Wow, that is some kind of service to his community. Somehow small town North America attracts that kind of dedication, unlike city fire departments who are all about unions.

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Amazing Fruit And Veggie Art . . .

08/09/2008 05:30

Mmm . . . Bacon (And More . . . )

08/09/2008 05:28

Bacon-flavored vodka? Now you’ve heard it all.

“Everything is better with bacon. It’s one of my favorite foods,” said Don Yovicsin, the owner of Jake’s Dixie Roadhouse in Waltham. “So when one of my friends mentioned the idea of bacon and vodka, it piqued my curiosity.”

He fried a batch of Niman Ranch thick-cut applewood-smoked bacon, added the crispy bacon to a large infuser jar with Absolut vodka, then let it sit for four weeks. After the liquor was smoky, he filtered out the bacon pieces with cheesecloth, chilled the vodka to congeal the bacon fat, then removed it via coffee filter.

The remaining smoky liquor was bottled and put behind the bar, where Jake’s is serving it in a variety of cocktails.

“The clear winner has been our Bloody Mary,” said Yovicsin. “It’s too perfect with the smoky bacon flavor.”

Fry up a drink here.

SINC SAYS:

I wonder how it would go with your eggs in the morning? Just might be the perfect camping breakfast.

Murray Stuns Nadal To Make U.S. Open Final

08/09/2008 05:26

NEW YORK - No one ever seems to run Rafael Nadal ragged, and yet Andy Murray did just that in the U.S. Open semifinals.

Murray finished a stunning, rain-interrupted 6-2, 7-6 (5), 4-6, 6-4 victory Sunday at Flushing Meadows to reach his first Grand Slam final and stop the No. 1-ranked Nadal's 19-match winning streak at major tournaments.

The sixth-seeded Murray won the first two sets and was down a break at 3-2 in the third when play was suspended Saturday because of Tropical Storm Hanna.

"Tough to sleep," Murray said.

And as should surprise no one, the generally indefatigable Nadal made a stand Sunday, taking the third set and going ahead 3-1 in the fourth. But Murray took five of the last six games, breaking Nadal twice and ending the Spaniard's bid to make his first final at the U.S. Open.

Murray never before made it past the quarter-finals at a major and never had defeated Nadal in five previous tries. Nadal, meanwhile, had won 54 of his preceding 56 matches and took the titles at the French Open, Wimbledon and Beijing Olympics this year.

But Murray was up to the task this time.

More from Canadian Press.

SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:

Today’s Federer/Murray final should be entertaining indeed. Murray holds a 2-1 lifetime advantage in matches with Federer. I was really hoping that we would see another classic Federer/Nadal final.

Villegas Wins BMW Championship, Ames Four Back

08/09/2008 05:26

ST. LOUIS - Camilo Villegas gave golf fans a real reason to pay attention to him - a trophy.

A marketing dream with his model looks and stylish dress, Villegas won for the first time on the PGA Tour with three big putts on the back nine at Bellerive on Sunday for a wire-to-wire victory in the BMW Championship.

Villegas closed with a 2-under 68 for a two-shot victory over Dudley Hart, who birdied the final two holes to earn a trip to the Masters with his highest finish in two years.

Calgary's Stephen Ames finished just four strokes back after firing a 4-under 66. Mike Weir of Bright's Grove, Ont., struggled to a 5-over 75 to finish 22 strokes behind Villegas.

With one playoff event remaining, the FedEx Cup essentially is over.

Vijay Singh, who won the first two events, tied for 44th and earned enough points that all he has to do is complete four rounds at the Tour Championship in two weeks to collect the US$10-million payoff.

But the surly Singh didn't seem terribly grateful.

More from Canadian Press.

SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:

Well, I hope the boys are enjoying themselves while they can, ‘cuz Tiger is back next year. This FedEx Cup thing has turned out to be one of the most boring, non-events in sport.

Brady Injured In Pats’ Victory, Could Miss Season

08/09/2008 05:25

Foxboro, MA (Sports Network) - Randy Moss had six receptions for 116 yards and a touchdown as New England overcame an early injury to quarterback Tom Brady to escape Kansas City, 17-10, in the season-opener for both clubs at Gillette Stadium.

Brady was 7-of-11 for 76 yards before departing the game with a left knee injury midway through the first quarter. Backup Matt Cassel was solid over the remainder of the contest, throwing for 152 yards and one score on 13-of-18 passes.

"I don't have any update on Tom," said Patriots head coach Bill Belichick. "They are looking at him and doing some tests on him, so we will see how that turns out. But I don't have any information on him."

Brady is scheduled to undergo and MRI on Monday. Yahoo! Sports, citing a team source, said Brady suffered serious ligament damage and will miss the remainder of the regular season.

"It's bad," a team source told the web site. "We're going to have to play without him."

More from TSN.

SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:

If Tom Brady is out for the season, we’ll see just how good New England is at overcoming adversity.

Favre Throws For Two Touchdowns As Jets Beat Dolphins

08/09/2008 05:24

MIAMI - Brett Favre sank to one knee on the sideline, helplessly watching the Miami Dolphins try to upstage his comeback with one of their own.

Six months after Favre began a brief retirement, he made a stirring debut Sunday as Broadway Brett. But in the final minute the Dolphins marched down the field while Favre's New York Jets clung to six-point lead.

What was he thinking?

''Don't score,'' he said.

Simple enough. Favre's new beginning had a happy ending when Darrelle Revis intercepted Chad Pennington in the end zone with five seconds left, and the Jets won 20-14.

''It was shaky, but it's a good start,'' Favre said. ''It's a win, and you can never question a win.''

Favre hardly looked like the retiring type, raising his arms to signal a touchdown, then leaping and skipping to the bench, where he vaulted into the arms of two teammates. That was after he threw a 56-yard touchdown pass on New York's second series.

He later improvised on fourth down for a 22-yard scoring pass, and finished 15-for-22 for 194 yards and his 161st victory, extending his NFL record for starting quarterbacks.

Favre said the game left him glad he's still playing at age 38, and after 16 seasons in Green Bay, he feels at home with his new team.

More from Canadian Press.

SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:

Brett Favre automatically gives the New York Jets credibility. Playing against his former team, Chad Pennington, the quarterback who was unceremoniously dumped for Favre, was not so successful, although he was intercepted in the end zone with five seconds remaining in the game preserving the 20-14 win for the Jets.

Mayor In Spain To Bring Expo To Edmonton

08/09/2008 05:24

Mayor Stephen Mandel will be at the World's Fair in Spain for the next ten days to learn how to successfully bring the event to Edmonton in the near future.

The city is planning to bid on the 2017 Expo. Mandel will meet with the World's Fair organizing committee in Saragossa, Spain to find out what Edmonton should do to be picked to host the event.

"We need to have a great deal of analysis yet and council needs to make some decisions in the fall as to the next step of allocating money to do this," said Mandel.

If Edmonton was picked as the host city for the 2017 Expo the event would fall on the same day as Canada's 150th birthday.

The World's Fair was first held in London in 1851.

In terms of economic and cultural impact, it is considered to be the third largest event in the world, behind the FIFA World Cup and the Olympic Games.

SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:

Bringing Expo 2017 to Edmonton would be another in a long line of successes on the world stage for the City of Edmonton.

The Things That People Send Me . . .

07/09/2008 07:52

What time is supper ready?

07/09/2008 07:49

Why don't woodpeckers get headaches when they slam their head on a tree all day?

If someone owns a piece of land, do they own it all the way to the center of the earth?

If an escalotor breaks down, does it become stairs?

Why do they say a football team is the 'world champion' when they don't play anybody outside the US?

Do stuttering people stutter when they're thinking to themselves?

If you put a chameleon in a room full of mirrors, what color would it turn?

The 65 MPG Ford The U.S. Can't Have

07/09/2008 07:46

Ford's Fiesta ECOnetic gets an astonishing 65 mpg, but the carmaker can't afford to sell it in the U.S.

If ever there was a car made for the times, this would seem to be it: a sporty subcompact that seats five, offers a navigation system, and gets a whopping 65 miles to the gallon. Oh yes, and the car is made by Ford Motor (F), known widely for lumbering gas hogs.

Ford's 2009 Fiesta ECOnetic goes on sale in November. But here's the catch: Despite the car's potential to transform Ford's image and help it compete with Toyota Motor (TM) and Honda Motor (HMC) in its home market, the company will sell the little fuel sipper only in Europe. "We know it's an awesome vehicle," says Ford America President Mark Fields. "But there are business reasons why we can't sell it in the U.S." The main one: The Fiesta ECOnetic runs on diesel.

Automakers such as Volkswagen (VLKAY) and Mercedes-Benz (DAI) have predicted for years that a technology called "clean diesel" would overcome many Americans' antipathy to a fuel still often thought of as the smelly stuff that powers tractor trailers. Diesel vehicles now hitting the market with pollution-fighting technology are as clean or cleaner than gasoline and at least 30% more fuel-efficient.

Details here.

SINC SAYS:

If there is a way to save the environment, this is it. North Americans need to warm up to diesel fuel.

The Musings Of Maxine . . .

07/09/2008 07:44

Boy Critical After Being Attacked By Pit Bull

07/09/2008 07:41

A 4-year-old boy was in critical condition Friday night after being attacked by a pit bull while in his own backyard in the Humboldt Park neighborhood.

About 7:30 p.m., the boy was in his yard in the 3500 block of West Cortland Street when a pit bull, which also lived in the building, attacked him, police News Affairs Officer Amina Greer said.

The child was taken to Children’s Memorial Hospital in critical condition, Greer said.

The dog's owner, William Baez, 58, of the same address on Cortland Street, was issued citations for no dog license and for owner responsibility in an incident where an animal bit another person, Greer said.

Baez will appear in court for an administrative hearing at 400 W. Superior St. on Oct. 29 at 2:30 p.m.

SINC SAYS:

When I read the headline, I first though it was Alaskan govenor Sarah Palin.

cfcw

Anonymous Reader Sends Us Photo . . .

07/09/2008 07:36

Hey Sinc,

I know you were asking for people to send in community news so I thought I would do my part.

Here's a shot that I took at the drag races yesterday afternoon.

Do you pay for readers to shoot pictures and send them in to you?

No Name Please
St. Albert

SINC SAYS:

You know NNP, some people would call you a smart ass, but not me. That's pretty funny. And no, I'm not paying you for this one.

Supposed Damsel In Distress

07/09/2008 07:34

Turns out to be caged cokatoo practising vocabulary

From CBC News

TRENTON, N.J. - Cries for help inside a Trenton, N.J., home turned out to be for the birds.
Neighbours called police Wednesday morning after hearing a woman's persistent cry of "Help me! Help me!"

Officers arrived and, when no one answered the door, they kicked it in to make a rescue. But instead of a damsel in distress, they found a caged cockatoo doing a convincing imitation.

It wasn't the first time the 10-year-old bird named Luna said something that brought authorities to the home of owner Evelyn DeLeon.

About seven years ago, the bird cried like a baby for hours, leading to reports of a possible abandoned baby and a visit to the home by state child welfare workers. But it was only Luna practising a newfound sound.

DeLeon says her bird learns much of her ever-growing vocabulary from watching television, in both English and Spanish.

SINC SAYS:

Stories like this one are for the birds.

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Amazing Fruit And Veggie Art . . .

07/09/2008 07:31

Beer Rationing At Bathurst 1000

07/09/2008 07:28

PETROL heads will have to survive on a slab of beer a day at next month's Bathurst 1000 car race.

Police checkpoints will confiscate “excess alcohol” as motor racing fans descend on Mt Panorama, in New South Wales' central west, for the October 9-12 event.

For the second year running, NSW Police and V8 Supercars have agreed to limit the amount of beer, wine and spirits taken into the racing precinct.

Adults can take one case (24 cans) of full-strength beer or one block (36 cans) of light beer each day.

Restrictions also apply to one case (24 cans) of pre-mixed drinks or one cask of wine, up to four litres.

Story brewing here.

SINC SAYS:

Gee, only 24 beers a day? How will they ever get drunk on that measly amount?

GlobalCell2_700x150

Regehr And Other NHLers Getting Behind Right To Play

07/09/2008 07:28

TORONTO - When sitting in an NHL arena in the biggest city in Canada, the grass huts of Maputo, Mozambique couldn't seem any further away.

Even that didn't affect Robyn Regehr's memory while talking about a recent trip he took to the country in Southeast Africa.

The Calgary Flames defenceman travelled to Mozambique with Boston Bruins captain Zdeno Chara as Right To Play ambassadors in late June. They visited areas of the country where the organization has set up programs to try and help poor children through sports.

It was similar to the trip NHLers Andrew Ference and Steve Montador took to Tanzania last summer and it's something Regehr would like to see others do in the future.

"I'm a big believer that we should get as many people as possible to go over there every five or six years," he said Friday before playing in the Festival Cup charity hockey game. "It readjusts your perception level of everything. All we see of Africa is what a lot people want us to see, what certain media outlets wants us to see.

"By going over there yourself, you get to see something different. It's a real good experience."

More from Canadian Press.

SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:

Not only is this a very noble cause, I’ll bet it really opens up the eyes of some of today’s over-paid, ultra-pampered NHL hockey brats.

Winnipeg Honors Blue Bombers Stegall With Street

07/09/2008 07:27

Blue Bombers' wide receiver Milt Stegall was honored by the city of Winnipeg on Friday.

Mayor Sam Katz officially unveiled "Milt Stegall Drive" in celebration of the numerous accomplishments of the wide receiver.

"It is an honour and a privilege that I'll be a part of Winnipeg forever." said Stegall. "I would like to thank everyone involved for making this happen - Mayor Sam Katz, Lyle Bauer, the Blue Bombers organization and all of the great fans in the City of Winnipeg. And remember - make sure your shoes are clean when walking on 'Milt Stegall Drive'."

Stegall became CFL's all-time touchdown leader on July 27th last season after scoring his 138th against the Hamilton Tiger-Cats.

"Milt's exceptional performance both on and off the field has given Winnipeggers plenty to cheer about and be proud of," explained Mayor Katz.

"By honoring his achievements in a permanent way, Winnipeggers can continue to honor Milt's perseverance, passion, and commitment to the City of Winnipeg."

SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:

This is truly a great and well-deserved honor for Stegall who is undoubtedly one of Winnipeg’s, and the CFL’s, greatest sports heroes.

Federer Downs Djokovic To Reach U.S. Open Final

07/09/2008 07:26

NEW YORK - As the losses piled up and titles escaped him, Roger Federer insisted he felt fine, he wasn't washed up and his game would come around.

Oh, did Federer look good against Novak Djokovic in the U.S. Open semifinals.

Buoyed by a stellar start and a fantastic finish in a rematch of last year's final, Federer beat Djokovic 6-3, 5-7, 7-5, 6-2 Saturday to move within one victory of a fifth consecutive U.S. Open championship and 13th Grand Slam title overall.

''One more match is all I need,'' he said.

He wasn't going to go to bed knowing the name of his next opponent. tropical storm Hanna hit the New York area in the afternoon, dumping enough rain to force the suspension of the semifinal between No. 1 Rafael Nadal and No. 6 Andy Murray in the third set. Murray leads 6-2, 7-6 (5), 2-3.

The weather also forced the postponement of the women's championship match between Serena Williams and Jelena Jankovic, originally scheduled for Saturday night. Instead, that will be played Sunday, when Nadal-Murray also is to resume.

Federer pulled away to beat Djokovic 6-3, 5-7, 7-5, 6-2, leaving him one win from a fifth consecutive U.S. Open championship and 13th Grand Slam title overall.

More from Canadian Press.

SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:

Let’s hope for another Federer/Nadal final.

Nicklaus Says U.S. Will Win Ryder Cup “Easily”

07/09/2008 07:25

Almost everyone expects the U.S. Ryder Cup team to be overmatched and overrun by the Europeans later this month at Valhalla. Everyone except the greatest player to ever play the game.

According to a BBC report, Jack Nicklaus believes the U.S. will win back the Ryder Cup and win it “easily.” (Note to Tiger Woods fans: Until Tiger gets to 19 majors, Jack is still the greatest golfer ever.)

The 18-time major winner, twice a Ryder Cup captain, told Golf Digest: "I just believe we have better players.
"I think American golf is better than perceptions based on recent Ryder Cup results."
"Europe has a lot of good players and a host of very promising young guys. But who among them has a great record?

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SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:

Wow, that’s certainly a bold prediction from the Golden Bear. But, since he is the greatest golfer of all time, maybe he knows a little bit of what he speaks. You think?

Four Holes-In-One Made In Nationwide Event

07/09/2008 07:25

SANDY, Utah - Peter Tomasulo, Chris Stroud, Brian Stuard and Jonathan Fricke had holes-in-one Thursday in the first round of the Utah Championship, the first time in Nationwide Tour history that there have been four aces in a round.

Tomasulo had the first ace, holing a 7-iron shot on the 203-yard second hole at Willow Creek Country Club. Forty minutes later, Stroud repeated the feat at the hole with a 6-iron. Stuard made the third ace of the day, holing a 7-iron shot at the 191-yard seventh. Fricke then aced the 176-yard fifth, also using a 7-iron.

The last time there were three aces on the same day in a Nationwide Tour event was last year during the first round of Boise Open. Four aces were made on the same day - and the same hole - in the 1989 U.S. Open at Oak Hill.

Tomasulo and Stroud finished with 67s, Fricke had a 68, and Stuard a 69.

SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:

Wow. Four holes-in-one in the same round of golf. I wonder what the odds of that are? Probably about the same as SWIVEL HIPS winning the 649. However, it is truly amazing and unusual – I’d say one for the Guiness Book of World Records, for sure.

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By Don Sinclair