23 November 2008
The World's 20 Most Dangerous Places
29/11/2008 19:38
The London (UK)
Telegraph has comprised a list of the 20 most
dangerous places in the
world.
Number one was Iraq.
The security situation in Iraq remains highly volatile, and the Foreign Office advises against all travel to Baghdad as well as a number of provinces, including Basra and Kirkuk. There is a continuing high threat of terrorism throughout the country, including the threat of kidnapping of foreign nationals.
Click here to see the other 19.
SINC SAYS:
Hmmm, St. Albert council chambers didn’t make the list and that is a surprise.
The security situation in Iraq remains highly volatile, and the Foreign Office advises against all travel to Baghdad as well as a number of provinces, including Basra and Kirkuk. There is a continuing high threat of terrorism throughout the country, including the threat of kidnapping of foreign nationals.
Click here to see the other 19.
SINC SAYS:
Hmmm, St. Albert council chambers didn’t make the list and that is a surprise.
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29/11/2008 19:35
Dear Valued Buyer,
"My commitment to you is offering great service, paying attention to detail, and placing your needs above all else on these two excellent Morinville homes."
Selling or buying a home can be a very stressful and emotional time. As your REALTOR®, you will enjoy the buying or selling experience and be comforted that I am working for you.
Please allow me, Peter Müller, to take care of your real estate needs. Whether it is to talk about how the market is affecting your home, giving you a FREE home evaluation, or by allowing me to SELL or FIND you a home at the best price possible. When you’re ready to look for that perfect house, allow me to assist you to make it your home.
Call me at 780-458-8300. Cell 780-996-0208 or e-mail me at peter@makeityourhome.ca or visit my web site.
MISS ENGLAND TOLD SHE IS TOO CHUNKY
29/11/2008 19:32
MODEL agencies are
turning down sexy Miss England Laura Coleman
because she is too
fat.The blonde has gone up a dress size to a perfect 10.
But Laura, who will take part in Miss World in South Africa next month, has found most agencies have a problem with her new curves.
Laura, 22, said: “I really think the curvy girl should be promoted more as a positive image in the media. But the agencies seemed to have a problem with me when I wasn’t skinny any more.”
Eating disorder specialist Emmy Gilbert added: “The fashion world endorses an ideal which can be unattainable or, if achieved, highly dangerous.”
SINC SAYS:
You know folks, she looks all right to me, how about you?
We Women Are So Excited!
29/11/2008 19:26
It's finally arrived! (Click on image to enlarge
and see details)
Choi Leads Skins, Major Payday Awaits On Day 2
29/11/2008 19:23
Indian Wells, CA (Sports Network) - K.J. Choi pocketed three skins and $75,000 on Saturday for the opening-nine lead at The Skins Game.
Phil Mickelson won a single skin and $25,000 after a spectacular eagle at the par-five fourth at the Celebrity Course at Indian Wells Golf Resort.
Two-time defending champion Stephen Ames and Rocco Mediate were shut out on Saturday.
The last five holes were halved on Saturday, leading to a huge payday on Sunday. The 10th hole will be worth six skins and $250,000.
Catch Day 2 action from the LG Skins Game Sunday on TSN and TSN HD, at 3pm et/Noon pt.
"We're feeling it," said Mickelson. "We're feeling the pressure, if you will. We're enjoying it. This is a fun opportunity for us to make a little cash."
Choi was the first to cash in on Saturday. After he and Mickelson both missed makeable birdie tries at one and Choi answered a 15-foot birdie putt from Mediate with a seven-footer of his own at two, the third was worth $75,000.
Mickelson and Ames both went over the putting surface and Mediate hit his approach a little fat from a fairway bunker. Mediate had over 100 feet to the flag with his birdie effort, but Choi knocked his second to three feet.
Choi was in such great shape that his birdie putt was inside the other three's par tries. Choi converted the birdie to win three skins and $75.000.
Mickelson was next to get on the board.
At the par-five fourth, Mickelson hit a spectacular second shot inches short of the hole. He stepped up and tapped in his eagle putt, then waited for Ames. The two-time defending champion missed an eagle attempt and Mickelson was on the board with a skin and $25,000.
More from TSN.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
By my calculations, a cool $900,000.00 is up for grabs today. Catch all of the action beginning at 1:00 p.m. local time on TSN and TSN-HD, or the ABC television network.
It’s Official – Burke Leafs Prez & GM – Now What?
29/11/2008 19:22
By CBC hockey analyst Jeff Marek
OK, so what now?
As the hockey world’s worst kept secret is slowly revealed and it is obvious that by the time Hockey Night in Canada gets on the air this weekend that Brian Burke will be the new president and general manager of the Toronto Maple Leafs, what does he then do?
Mass firings? Big trades? A huge splash right away?
Not sure I expect any of that, really.
Let’s start with the front office where we find a glut of good hockey men from Cliff Fletcher to Joe Nieuwendyk to Jeff Jackson to Al Coates to say nothing of the man who’s coming along with Burke, Dave Nonis.
Seem like too many men in the office?
Think again.
As the Detroit Red Wings have proven, you can never have enough good hockey minds in an organization.
I expect Burke to behave the same way he did in Vancouver and Anaheim and keep the front office intact.
So what about on the ice?
Well, there I can see changes. Maybe not right away, but I can see change coming before the season is over.
Many pundits have already forecasted that Burke will go out right away and find a gorilla for some muscle on the team. Please add me to that list. In Burke’s own words he likes teams who react to and initiate physical confrontations and challenges. Look around the league and see who the available heavyweights are. Burke wants him on his team. OK, maybe he wants two.
As for major roster moves, I don’t think Burke starts shipping bodies out the door right away, but by the March 4 trade deadline, it will be obvious who’s staying and who’s going.
And trust me, there are players going.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
More from Jeff Marek.
Brian Burke's career highlights.
Sorenstam Helps Internationals Gain Tie At Lexus Cup
29/11/2008 19:21
SINGAPORE - Annika Sorenstam isn't quite finished.
Playing her second-to-last event before retiring, the Swedish star holed a 45-foot pitch for eagle on the par-5 18th hole to give herself and Suzann Pettersen a 1-up victory over Inbee Park and Eun Hee Ji on Saturday in the Lexus Cup.
"The timing was perfect," Sorenstam said. "Suzann played extraordinarily well. I was happy to have a chance to help on the last hole."
With the comeback victory in the opening best-ball match at Singapore Island Country Club, Sorenstam and Pettersen helped the International team match two-time defending champion Asia at six points entering the closing 12 singles matches.
Sorenstam, set to end her Hall of Fame career next week in the Ladies European Tour's Dubai Ladies Masters, is the International team's playing captain.
"It's amazing how close it really is," Sorenstam said. "A lot of matches went to the 18th hole. The golf has been spectacular. You have to make birdies to win out here. It's been a great day and hopefully we can continue the momentum tomorrow. I wouldn't be surprised to see it come to the 18th hole."
On Sunday, Sorenstam will play Asian captain Se Ri Pak in the opening match, the first between the longtime stars.
"It's funny, you think all these years we've been out together, we've never been out head-to-head," Sorenstam said. "I'm looking forward to it."
More from Canadian Press.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
It would be nice to see Annika go out with a win tomorrow in her singles match with Se Ri Pak.
Giants’ Plaxico Burress Hospitalized After Shooting
29/11/2008 19:20
New York Giants wide receiver Plaxico Burress was accidentally shot in the right thigh and spent the night in the hospital.
The Giants said the shooting happened Friday night and he was released from the hospital early Saturday. The team did not say where the shooting took place or in what hospital Burress was treated. The Giants termed what happened an "apparent accidental shooting."
A team official, speaking to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity, said Burress was wounded in a nightclub. The team said it has been in contact with the 31-year-old receiver since the shooting.
"Our primary concern is for Plaxico's health and well-being, and given the circumstances, we are relieved to say he was released from a New York City hospital," the team said in a statement.
The Giants have discussed the matter with NFL security and are attempting to gather more details.
"This incident could become a matter for law enforcement officials, and because of that we have no comment on any of the details," the team said.
Repeated phones calls to Burress' home and his agent, Drew Rosenhaus, were not immediately returned.
Added NFL spokesman Joe Browne: "We are gathering information, just like everyone else."
More from Canadian Press.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
Just another in a series of continuing examples of spoiled, pampered professional athletes who never really learned how to behave themselves, folks. Simply putting himself in a position (being in that nightclub), associating with the types of people who carry guns, and observing his other on and off-field shenanigans, tell me about all I have to know about Burress’ character.
Woods’ Split With GM A Warning For All Athletes
29/11/2008 19:20
Turns out, Tiger Woods wouldn't really rather have a Buick. At least not anymore.
When Woods ended his nine-year relationship with General Motors Corp. on Monday - a mutual decision between a megawatt celebrity who doesn't need the work and a teetering corporation that needs every penny - it offered yet another snapshot of how badly the American economy has deteriorated.
Woods is the world's most marketable athlete with an estimated US$100 million endorsements a year. If his agreement with one of the world's most active sports sponsors dissolved, some experts wonder if any endorsement or sponsorship deal is really ironclad in these tough times.
"The real story here isn't Tiger," says Marc Ganis, the president of Sportscorp Ltd., a Chicago-based sports consulting firm. "It's the auto industry. ... There are a lot of parties who are going to have some difficulties finding sponsors to substitute for what the auto industry used to provide."
LeBron James ($28 million in endorsements according to Sports Illustrated's 2007 figures), Peyton Manning ($13 million) and those in the top-circle elite don't have so much to worry about because, like Woods, they have multiple deals spread over several industries.
As for everyone else - well, Ganis figures they will feel the pain. If money from the auto industry and financial world dries up, athletes and events that are lower in the pecking order will get thirsty.
"You've just got to be much more creative," said Evan Morgenstein, an agent for gymnast Nastia Liukin, swimmer Dara Torres and other Olympic athletes.
Morgenstein says sponsors have become so fidgety that his phone actually rings more on days the stock market is doing well, less when it's not.
More from Canadian Press.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
As I have said before, anyone – including professional sports organizations and athletes – who figures the current world economic crisis will not have an effect on them is sadly mistaken.
Mr. Harper’s Worst Nightmare: He’s Baaaaaak!
29/11/2008 05:58
Jean Chretien, as
Conservatives are seeing him today: “Heeeere’s
Jeany!”Don:
I suspect you'll hate my blog about Jean Chretien this morning, but I know you're going to love the artwork.
You're welcome to pull it off and use it on your page - in return for a plug and a referral to my blog.
I can claim credit for the concept, but not the PhotoShop work, which was done by a good friend who's handy with photo editing software.
Best regards,
David J Climenhaga
SINC SAYS:
You’re right on both counts David. Love the artwork, hate the man. How anyone can condone the actions of a crook is beyond me.
That being said, you make some great points in your kneecap, I mean recap.
Readers can see the entire article on St. Albert Diary, but here’s a quote to wet your whistle:
“Just when the Conservatives thought it was safe to go back in the water, Jean Chretien resurfaces. I must say, it brought a smile to my face yesterday to see the wily old pro was back on the prowl, confounding the Harperites’ vile politics and frustrating their knavish tricks. I wish he’d never left.
But then, I’ve been fond of Mr. Chretien for a long time. The sponsorship scandal notwithstanding, the country’s rarely been in better hands than during his long Oscar & Felix routine with Paul Martin. It seemed like we went from strength to strength with the Odd Couple at the helm.”
One Good Turn Deserves Another Department
29/11/2008 05:49
SINC SAYS:
Folks, it's not often I dedicate a joke to a reader, but in this case I will make an exception and publish this one just for fellow writer David J Climenhaga:
STEPHANE DION'S RETIREMENT DINNER . . .
At a dinner thrown in her husband's honour, a man turned to Madame Dion and said, "Your husband has been such a prominent public figure with such a busy schedule. How quiet will retirement seem in comparison. What are you most looking forward to in these retirement years?"
"A penis," replied Madame Dion.
A hush fell over the table. Everyone heard her answer yet no one knew what to say next.
Stephane leaned over to his wife and said, "In Hinglish dey pronounce dat word, "Appiness".
Remembering Hollywood Squares
29/11/2008 05:45
If you remember the
OriginalHollywood Squares and its comics, this
may bring a tear to your
eyes.
These great
questions and answers are from the days when '
Hollywood Squares' game show responses were
spontaneous, not scripted, as they are now.
Peter Marshall was the host asking the
questions, of course.
Q. In bowling, what's a perfect score?
A. Rose Marie: Ralph, the pin boy.
Q. It is considered in bad taste to discuss two subjects at nudist camps.One is politics, what is the other?
A. Paul Lynde: Tape measures.
Q. During a tornado, are you safer in the bedroom or in the closet?
A. Rose Marie: Unfortunately Peter, I'm always safe in the bedroom.
Q. Can boys join the Camp Fire Girls?
A. Marty Allen: Only after lights out.
Q. When you pat a dog on its head he will wag his tail. What will a goose do?
A. Paul Lynde: Make him bark?
Q. In bowling, what's a perfect score?
A. Rose Marie: Ralph, the pin boy.
Q. It is considered in bad taste to discuss two subjects at nudist camps.One is politics, what is the other?
A. Paul Lynde: Tape measures.
Q. During a tornado, are you safer in the bedroom or in the closet?
A. Rose Marie: Unfortunately Peter, I'm always safe in the bedroom.
Q. Can boys join the Camp Fire Girls?
A. Marty Allen: Only after lights out.
Q. When you pat a dog on its head he will wag his tail. What will a goose do?
A. Paul Lynde: Make him bark?
Whoops, We Better Try This Again
29/11/2008 05:27
From CBC News
TOKYO - Japanese zookeepers have wondered for a while why two polar bears that they had hoped would mate have shown little interest in each other.
The answer came this month when the zoo discovered both the bears were female.
Tsuyoshi, a four-year-old polar bear, and 11-year-old Kurumi have been living in the same enclosure at the Kushiro Municipal Zoo in Hokkaido in northern Japan since June.
The zoo said Wednesday it thought Tsuyoshi was male because of the bear's appearance. Male polar bears are generally significantly larger than females.
Experts say when polar bears are young, it is difficult to determine their sex because their long hair covers their reproductive organs. Tsuyoshi was determined to be male at three months old.
But earlier this month, the zoo put Tsuyoshi under an anesthetic and learned he was a she.
SINC
SAYS:
They ought to send
those zookeepers back to Sex Ed
101.
Things Are Not Always As They Seem . . .
29/11/2008 05:24
An elderly couple was
attending church services.
About halfway through, she leaned over and whispered to her husband, 'I just let out a long silent fart. What do you think I should do?'
He replied, 'Put a new battery in your hearing aid.'
Tambellini Confident Oilers Can Turn It Around
29/11/2008 05:21
EDMONTON - The Edmonton Oilers are struggling mightily with just five wins in their last 17 games as they prepare for contests in St. Louis and Dallas, but general manager Steve Tambellini is preaching patience.
Despite a 9-10-2 record that has the Oilers languishing in 14th place in the Western Conference as they face the Blues on Saturday and Stars on Sunday, Tambellini is expressing confidence that his coaching staff and players have the ability to turn things around.
"We still have faith in this group," Tambellini said. "We have a big weekend coming up. We can have a solid weekend here. We need a strong effort against St. Louis, no question."
After a promising 4-0 start to the season, coach Craig MacTavish has come under increasing fire as the Oilers have gone 5-10-2, including five straight losses at Rexall Place.
Following a 4-3 setback to Detroit on Nov. 20, MacTavish made it clear he expected a more concerted physical effort and better starts from his team. After five days off to rest, practice and work out the kinks, the Oilers responded with a lethargic 2-1 loss to Los Angeles, prompting speculation the players have tuned out MacTavish.
"I don't think that at all," Tambellini said. "We've got a strong coaching staff. If you've watched the practices the last five days, they worked extremely hard.
More from Canadian Press.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
What would Steve Tambellini know? I has the distinct displeasure of being at the Oilers/Kings game on Wednesday night and it was just a pathetic effort, or lack thereof, by the Oilers, folks. I wonder, have the players stopped listening to the coaching staff – because it sure looked like they were just going through the motions? Maybe the Eskimos and the Oilers can make it a clean sweep here in the last couple of days? It’s up to you now Oilers’ brass.
Ten Things We Learned This CFL Season
29/11/2008 05:20
By Malcolm Kelly, CBC Sports
After 21 weeks of the Canadian Football League, the final question remains: What did we learn?
Here's a list of 10:
1. Quarterbacks are not fashion items
Somewhere out in the offices at 1910 Piffles Taylor Way, in Regina, general manager Eric Tillman is probably still trying to work out why his Saskatchewan Roughriders didn't win a second consecutive Grey Cup. Here's a hint: If you treat your quarterbacks like they're interchangeable outfits you can buy, switch and toss away on a whim, you can't be successful.
First, the Riders traded Kerry Joseph to Toronto because they couldn't afford him and believed Marcus Crandell could be the guy.
Except he wasn't.
Crandell was judged not good enough and cut early in the season, so they traded for Michael Bishop from Toronto, and said he was the guy.
Except he wasn't.
So they went to Darian Durant and Steven Jyles. And then back to Bishop for the playoffs. When Bish didn't play well and showed almost no confidence (wonder why?) in the post-season defeat, the Riders cut him.
Next year, how about Doug Flutie? Or Sam Etcheverry? Or Russ Jackson? (Historical note: Neil "Piffles" Taylor was a First War pilot who became a key figure in the development of football out West. Thought you'd like to know).
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
For more of Malcolm Kelly’s list of ten, click here.
Frost Acquitted Of Sexual Exploitation Charges
29/11/2008 05:19
Former junior hockey coach and NHL player agent David Frost was acquitted on Friday of all charges against by an Ontario Court judge in Napanee, Ont.
Frost was found not guilty by a judge on four counts of sexual exploitation arising from his term as coach of the junior A Quinte Hawks club in Eastern Ontario in 1996 and 1997.
The charges stemmed from alleged incidents involving two former Hawks players he coached.
The young women who dated the players when they were 16 gave emotional testimony during the trial, contending Frost masterminded and participated in sexual threesomes with the Hawks players and their teenage girlfriends.
One of the women said Frost, age 29 at the time, persisted in having group sex with her and her boyfriend for a number of years.
The defence conceded that group sex is common in hockey, but vehemently denied Frost ever took part in the sex acts.
While Ontario Court Justice Geoff Griffin cleared Frost of the charges, he added the trial "exposed a dark and very unhealthy side of hockey."
"It's extremely offensive and must be denounced," Griffin said in making his verdict.
More from CBC Sports.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
All I can say is, wow, the Canadian legal system strikes again!
29/11/2008 05:19
Dear Valued Buyer,
"My commitment to you is offering great service, paying attention to detail, and placing your needs above all else on these two excellent Morinville homes."
Selling or buying a home can be a very stressful and emotional time. As your REALTOR®, you will enjoy the buying or selling experience and be comforted that I am working for you.
Please allow me, Peter Müller, to take care of your real estate needs. Whether it is to talk about how the market is affecting your home, giving you a FREE home evaluation, or by allowing me to SELL or FIND you a home at the best price possible. When you’re ready to look for that perfect house, allow me to assist you to make it your home.
Call me at 780-458-8300. Cell 780-996-0208 or e-mail me at peter@makeityourhome.ca or visit my web site.
Oshawa Generals Retire Bobby Orr’s No. 2
29/11/2008 05:18
On a night when Oshawa celebrated the career of hockey legend Bobby Orr, the Generals put on a show for one of the best player the franchise has ever seen.
Five different Generals scored goals and Neil Conway made 31 saves as the Generals defeated the Peterborough Petes 5-1 on Ontario Hockey League action Thursday.
The win came after the club retired the No. 2 jersey of the legendary Orr in front of 6,253 at the General Motors Centre.
Orr's legendary hockey career, one that saw him revolutionize the way defencemen played the game, started in Oshawa as a 14-year-old. During his four-year Generals career, Orr posted eye-popping totals of 116 goals, 205 assists and 321 points, including 38 goals and 94 points in his final season in 1965-66.
"I did a lot of growing up in Oshawa from ages 14 to 18 and I'll be forever grateful for those people who helped me in that time of my life," Orr said from ice level during his thank-you speech Thursday night.
Elsewhere in the OHL it was: Niagara 6 Brampton 5 (OT); Belleville 4 Erie 2; and Barrie 6 Sudbury 2.
At Oshawa, Ont., Brett Parnham, Kory Nagy, Jeff Hayes, Jeff Brown and Tyler Taylor each scored for Oshawa (12-11-0-3), while Calvin de Haan added a pair of assists.
Pat Daley scored the only Peterborough goal, while Ryan Daniels stopped 28 for the Petes (12-15-0-1), who went 1-for-6 on the power play, while blanking the Generals on their two chances with the man advantage.
More from Canadian Press.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
There is no question that Robert G. Orr revolutionized the way that defencemen play hockey. He was the most fluid skater and the greatest offensive defenceman hockey will ever see.
Charity Parts Ways With Troubled Clemens
29/11/2008 05:17
Roger Clemens has been asked to end his involvement with a charity golf tournament he has hosted for four years as the fallout from the Mitchell Report continues to haunt the seven-time Cy Young award winner, the Daily News reported in Wednesday's edition.
Although Clemens helped raise millions of dollars for charities associated with the event, the Giff Nielsen Day of Golf for Kids was held Nov. 11 at Houston's Shadow Hawk Golf Club without him.
"Roger Clemens is no longer affiliated with the tournament," said Nielsen, a Houston broadcaster. "We decided we would go our separate ways until his off-field stuff is settled.
"I approached him, and as we talked, we reached a mutual agreement that we would put our relationship on hold. He was good about it. He said 'I agree with the decision.'"
Clemens has denied using performance-enhancing drugs since he was identified in George Mitchell's report on drug use in baseball. He filed a defamation lawsuit in January against his former trainer, Brian McNamee, who claims he injected Clemens with steroids and human growth hormone.
Federal prosecutors also are looking into whether Clemens committed perjury when he testified under oath in front of a congressional committee that he never used performance-enhancing drugs.
"He is dealing with some tough issues," Nielsen said. "He is dealing with something that is very challenging. The accusations against him are serious. It just made sense to say, 'Go take care of these issues and we will revisit the relationship later, when it makes sense.' He was very receptive. He was very understanding."
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
It would appear the sky is starting to fall in all around ‘Rocket’ Roger.
Fans Demand Open Lid When Bills Face Dolphins
29/11/2008 05:17
ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. - What was the NFL thinking when it scheduled the warm-weather Miami Dolphins to play their division-rival Buffalo Bills in the cozy confines of a domed stadium in December, and in Toronto of all places?
That's the question numerous unhappy Bills fans have been asking since the schedule came out with Buffalo playing a "home" game against Miami at the Rogers Centre on Dec. 7.
With that in mind, two Bills season-ticket holders, Andrew Petrinec and Al Keohane, decided to do something about shifting the climate-controlled playing field in Buffalo's favour by organizing a petition to have the domed stadium's retractable roof open for the game.
"We're just trying to make a difference," said Petrinec, who's gathered about 1,000 signatures on the Internet and in person. "We're trying to do anything we can to help out the team and make a little noise so maybe the league will recognize that fans aren't extremely thrilled with it."
Buffalo fans were deprived of a game in Orchard Park against an AFC East opponent when the Bills secured a five-year deal to become the first NFL team to start playing annual regular-season games outside the U.S.
The move means the Bills are losing their traditional cold-field advantage.
More from Canadian Press.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
I have a solution to the controversy. The Bills should just play all of their home games in Buffalo and stay the hell out of Toronto. Simple.
Arts & Heritage Want Yet More Money?
28/11/2008 04:47
Hi Don,
Arts & Heritage Foundation are back to city council with cap in hand once again.
Not satisfied with their recent success ($140,000 from the tax payer purse to assist with their planning, strategizing and visionary thinking), they now want a 9% increase in city funding so that they can hire yet more staff.
Apparently a staff increase is necessary to restore our heritage sites, namely the grain elevators and the surrounding derelict buildings.
Here’s a suggestion to save the city tax payer lots of tax dollars. Give each of their current $900,000 payroll staff a pair of coveralls, a pot of paint and some brushes, get them out of their cosy offices and put them to work.
Extraordinary times call for extraordinary measures, or maybe they are so engrossed with the visionary thinking thing, they haven’t yet noticed that the world, yes including St. Albert, is currently embroiled in an economic crises of unprecedented proportions.
As said before, you couldn’t make it up.
Regards,
Robert Hartley
St. Albert
SINC SAYS:
You’re right Robert, you can’t make this up, but I do like your idea. Imagine wanting to waste that kind of money on a couple of beat up old elevators while the financial markets are in meltdown?
Opposition Parties Won't Support Tory Economic Update
28/11/2008 04:34
Dion says PM must
'look at his options' to avoid fall of
governmentCanada's opposition parties said Thursday they will vote against the Conservative government's fiscal update, sparking speculation the country could face another election in the midst of a global economic crisis.
The Liberals, NDP and Bloc Québécois said they would not support the update introduced by Finance Minister Jim Flaherty because it contained no stimulus package to spur Canada's slumping economy and protect Canadian workers during the crisis.
The update is a confidence vote on Stephen Harper's minority Conservative government and could be voted on as a ways and means motion as early as Monday evening.
Liberal Leader Stéphane Dion said the parties' decision to reject Flaherty's proposals means it's up to the prime minister to evaluate his options.
"We will vote against this plan," Dion told reporters outside the Commons.
Sorry story here from CBC News.
SINC SAYS:
What are these idiots thinking? Do the opposition parties, and in particular lame duck leader Stephane Dion, not know Canadians will punish them at the polls if they plunge the country into another election in January? It's the surest way I know to hand the Conservatives a majority this time around.
It’s all political posturing because they are upset about the cancellation of the subsidy per vote given to parties after an election.
I for one am tired of seeing tax dollars prop up political parties and especially one that wants to separate from Canada. Support of a political party should be voluntary and by individuals, not forced via taxes.
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Cardboard Figure Keeps Police At Bay
28/11/2008 04:27
A cardboard figure of
a person inside a Somerset County bank kept
police at bay for 90 minutes tonight,
authorities
said.The standoff at the PNC Bank on routes 518 and 601 in the Skillman section of Montgomery Township ended at about 10:20 p.m., Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne Forrest said.
Police responded to the bank when an alarm went off about 8:40 p.m.
When officers arrived, they saw what they thought was at least one person through the windows of the bank, which had its blinds drawn, according to authorities.
Police then sealed off the area to traffic and evacuated residents in three nearby apartment buildings .
"I drove in the parking lot (of my apartment building) and see all these guys with guns," said Ross Stout.
Authorities tried to make contact with whoever might be in the building. Officers used bullhorns, and then tried to call inside the building, Forrest said.
After failing to get any response from the figure inside, the SWAT team entered.
To their chagrin, they discovered the "person" seen inside the building was a full-size cardboard figure, Forrest said.
SINC SAYS:
Do you suppose that the fact the “person” never moved a muscle all during their contact efforts might have clued them in?
Questions, We Get Questions . . .
28/11/2008 04:23
Have you ever seen
a man in a kilt and wondered . . .
hmmmmmm?
Hunt On To Replace Maciocia As Eskimos Coach
28/11/2008 04:18
EDMONTON - The Edmonton Eskimos are on the hunt for a new head coach after Danny Maciocia confirmed today his decision to move upstairs into the position of general manager and director of football operations.
The 41-year-old already carried the football operations title along with the role of head coach.
"Danny Maciocia is leaving the playing field and is going to focus his full attention on football management," said Rick LeLacheur, president and CEO of the Eskimos. "He'll assume the duties immediately.
"I can tell you from my point of view that it comes with mixed emotions. We've spent a lot of time together over the last week. We've had a lot of discussions between both Montreal (where they played the East final and attended the Grey Cup) and here and at the end of the day decided this was the right move at the right time."
It was a tired-looking Maciocia who left Montreal folowing the team's 36-26 loss in the East final, two weekends ago. Rumours started then of his potential move upstairs.
More from the Edmonton Journal.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
Before you start dancing in the streets, Danny Macicoia is still in charge of Eskimo football operations, Rick LeLacheur is still here, Rick Campbell is still here and Doug Berry is the front-runner for the head coaching position. So what are we Eskimo fans getting all excited about? I have absolutely no idea why Eskimo fans are all so happy today?
Pursuit Of Warrant For Guy Lafleur Abusive?
28/11/2008 04:18
MONTREAL - Now that Guy Lafleur's trial for presenting contradictory evidence is set to begin, his lawyers are calling for a stay of proceedings as a remedy to the "abusive" actions of prosecutors and police who sought to "humiliate" the hockey Hall of Famer.
Testifying Wednesday, Lafleur, 57, told the court he was "sickened" when he found out about the arrest warrant. "It was the icing on the cake, after everything we'd been through," Lafleur told Quebec Court Judge Claude Parent. "I was really worried they'd come and arrest me. I couldn't sleep."
Lafleur gave himself up Jan. 30 and was arraigned one week later for changing his testimony when asked the whereabouts of his son Mark.
Lafleur's 23-year-old son was awaiting trial for multiple accounts of assault and forcible confinement of his former girlfriend, then under 17 years old, to which he pleaded guilty in June.
More from Canwest News Service.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
Why do I get the feeling Lafleur’s ‘team’ is saying he should have received ‘preferential’ treatment because of who he is? And, it sounds like he did – so what are they complaining about?
Don’t Count Jason Tucker Out Yet
28/11/2008 04:17
Source says receiver would come back if he gets medical clearance
A source inside the Edmonton Eskimos organization says Jason Tucker's return to the playing field next season shouldn't be entirely ruled out.
Not if he gets the medical clearance, which, at its earliest, may not come for a couple of months.
"If doctors give him the OK, he would play," insisted the source, speaking on the condition of anonymity. "That's just Tuck. Ultimately, he would need that assurance, and not just from one doctor."
Tucker fractured two vertebrae which were fused surgically, a few days after he sustained the injury on July 25, in a 19-13 victory over the Tiger-Cats in Hamilton. The Eskimos receiver hauled in a short pass and was caught in a helmet-to-helmet collision with Jykine Bradley. Following surgery, he was placed in a cervical collar and had it removed last week before heading back home to Texas.
Tucker's enthusiasm, which he displayed at last Thursday's press conference, shouldn't surprise anyone -- nor should a possible return, said the source.
More from the Edmonton Journal.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
I thought coming back from a spinal cord injury was a once-in-a-lifetime occurrence, as happened with Esks’ defensive end Brandon Guillory this past season. If Tucker also gets medical clearance to play football again, it would be one helluva story wouldn’t it folks?
28/11/2008 04:16
Dear Valued Buyer,
"My commitment to you is offering great service, paying attention to detail, and placing your needs above all else on these two excellent Morinville homes."
Selling or buying a home can be a very stressful and emotional time. As your REALTOR®, you will enjoy the buying or selling experience and be comforted that I am working for you.
Please allow me, Peter Müller, to take care of your real estate needs. Whether it is to talk about how the market is affecting your home, giving you a FREE home evaluation, or by allowing me to SELL or FIND you a home at the best price possible. When you’re ready to look for that perfect house, allow me to assist you to make it your home.
Call me at 780-458-8300. Cell 780-996-0208 or e-mail me at peter@makeityourhome.ca or visit my web site.
Kelly Set To Become Bombers Head Coach
28/11/2008 04:15
WINNIPEG - Mike Kelly has packed up his belongings in Edmonton and is expected to be introduced as the Winnipeg Blue Bombers' new head coach early next week.
A source told The Canadian Press that Kelly did some house-cleaning Tuesday at his Edmonton Eskimos office, where he served as the team's receivers coach this past season.
"His office is cleaned out," the source said.
Kelly, a former offensive co-ordinator with the Bombers from 1992 to '96, will replace Doug Berry, who was fired as Winnipeg's head coach Nov. 12.
"This is a long time coming," another source said. "He's so deserving of it.
"He's a phenomenal coach, a phenomenal person and he's genuine."
Bombers president and CEO Lyle Bauer has interviewed a number of candidates, including Kelly and Winnipeg defensive co-ordinator Greg Marshall.
Kelly, 50, has been considered the front-runner because of his connection to the CFL team and Bauer, who was Winnipeg's assistant general manager during Kelly's first stint.
"The talks that Lyle Bauer and I had were productive," Kelly said Wednesday from Edmonton.
"I feel good about things and I hope we'll have more to report very soon."
More from Canadian Press.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
It’s a done deal. The loss of Kelly will be huge for the Esks. He’s a tremendous coach and did an excellent job with Edmonton’s young receiving corps this year as is evidenced by their production on the field. About all that remains to be seen is if Kelly can convince long-time friend and former Bombers’ quarterback Matt Dunigan to follow him to Winnipeg as his offensive coordinator.
Kelly was the Bombers’ offensive coordinator when Dunigan was their quarterback and they also coached together at Valdosta State, along with the Eskimos’ offensive line coach Ronnie Vinklarek. The Bombers also asked the Esks for permission to speak to Vinklarek, but it has not been granted.
Economic Bogey For Golf Tours
28/11/2008 04:15
Tiger won't feel pinch, but PGA will see tougher times by 2010
General Motors' decision to end its sponsorship deal with Tiger Woods is an alarm bell that professional golf will not be spared from the impact of the ongoing financial meltdown.
There will be no need for a red-tag day for the world's No. 1 player, of course, over the loss of an estimated $7 million to $10 million US a year from GM. Woods had been with the automaker for nine years, appearing in ads for Buick, but sales for the brand have dropped 58 per cent from 1999-2007, and 20 per cent over the past year.
Even without GM, Woods, who hasn't played a round of golf since surgery to repair a chronically bad knee after hobbling to victory at the U.S. Open in June, still should see earnings from of all his sources reach $120 million this year to remain on track to become the first sports figure to exceed $1 billion in career earnings some time in 2010.
But next on GM's hit list could be Fred Couples, who has enjoyed a sponsorship deal with Cadillac, a division of the giant automaker, which has paid the PGA Tour veteran several million dollars a year since 1992 when he won The Masters.
The question now is if GM could dump Woods, the most marketable sports figure in the world, and might do likewise with another of the game's most popular players in Couples, is anybody, or any tournament, safe during what no doubt will be a long period of tough re-evaluation by major companies as far as sponsorship deals in the future?
More from Canwest News Service.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
Nobody, including professional sports organizations and/or athletes, is immune from the economic times in which we presently find ourselves and anyone who thinks so, or who says so (read Gary Bettman and Tim Finchem), is fooling themselves.
Driving For Dummies . . .
27/11/2008 00:48
Yesterday
afternoon, I'm in the right lane of Hebert Road
about a half block from the Trail. The light
ahead has just turned green. There is a woman
in a big honking crew cab pick up in the left
lane and I can only see her bumper in my left
mirror.
She suddenly accelerates, the diesel roaring and cuts directly in front of me without signalling, then makes a right hand turn onto the Trail, forcing me to hit the binders.
She could have simply eased off the gas, fallen in behind me and made her turn.
Dummy.
The Boons of Beer . . .
27/11/2008 00:44
Wine snags a lot of
credit for its heart-healthy effects; truth is,
moderate consumption of beer provides the same
benefits.Research suggests that it's the alcohol itself that lowers cardiovascular risk (by reducing inflammation, "thinning" the blood and improving insulin sensitivity). Here are six more reasons to cheer for beer!
Scientists at the Research Institute of Brewing and Malting in Prague announced that they've created a new non-alcoholic beer that may reduce hot flashes in menopausal women. It's long been known hops naturally contain low levels of the same plant estrogens found in soy; the Czech researchers used new technology to boost the concentration (to ten times that of some lagers).
Researchers at Oregon State University in Corvallis have reported that xanthohumol, an antioxidant in hops, may thwart the growth of prostate cancer by triggering the rampant cells to self-destruct. Unfortunately, the dose used in the study equals 17 beers (please don't try that at home). Upshot: The findings may lead to the development of a hops-derived pharmaceutical treatment.
An Austrian study published earlier this year suggests that antioxidants in hops, called humulones, may help to soothe chronic inflammation that is the result of an immune system in overdrive. In recent years, scientists have linked inflammation with a variety of chronic ills, including cardiovascular disease, Alzheimer's and arthritis.
Dark-colored beers don't contain more antioxidants than light-colored brews. A deeper hue just means that the malt (sugars extracted from the grain) has been roasted longer.
In a Tufts University study of 2,900 men and women, people who drank a beer or two a day had higher bone-mineral densities than nondrinkers. Scientists say silicon, a mineral in beer that promotes healthy bones, may be to thank.
Twenty percent of people in a University of California, Davis, study said they knew that beer, like wine, contains antioxidants. It's true. Beer also contains some B vitamins, and certain varieties even have a bit of soluble fiber, which has been linked with reduced cholesterol.
SINC SAYS:
If you’re paying attention here guys, and what guy wouldn’t when it comes to beer, you may want to print this off and hang it on your fridge. That way when you’re on the last bottle of that six pack and the better half complains, you can just point to the sign.
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27/11/2008 00:39
Ever since I was a
child, I've always had a fear of someone under
my bed at night. So I went to a shrink and told
him, 'I've got problems. Every time I go to bed
I think there's somebody under it. I'm scared.
I think I'm going crazy.'
'Just put yourself in my hands for one year,' said the shrink. 'Come talk to me three times a week and we should be able to get rid of those fears.'
'How much do you charge?'
'Eighty dollars per visit,' replied the doctor.
'I'll sleep on it,' I said.
Six months later the doctor met me on the street. 'Why didn't you ever come to see me about those fears you were having?' he asked.
'Well, eighty bucks s visit three times a week for a year is an awful lot of money! A bartender cured me for $10. I was so happy to have saved all that money that I went
and bought me a new pickup!'
'Is that so!’ With an attitude he said, ‘How, may I ask, did a bartender cure you?'
'He told me to cut the legs off the bed! Ain't nobody under there now!
Lap Dancing Club's "Cheeky" Adverts Plan
27/11/2008 00:39
A CHESTER lap dancing
club has come with "a cheeky" idea for how
struggling companies can defy the credit
crunch.Dan Phillips, booking agent for the Platinum Lounge in Bridge Street, says businesses can now get themselves noticed and increase their bottom-line...by advertising on the girls' bare behinds.
Dan said the commercials were similar - if a little more racy - to those on Premiership football shirts or Formula 1 drivers' racing suits.
He said: "I thought of it more as a cheeky bit of fun until we realised the potential that it was an interesting and unusual way for people to get their businesses noticed.
"Local firms can sponsor as many of the girls as they wish and we hope the novelty of the scheme will ensure their message will stick in the minds of those people visiting the club.
"We have a very diverse selection of customers from all walks of life and are pretty sure they will have never seen anything like this before."
The dancers will have the 15cm by 10m adverts applied to their bottoms using a stencil and body paints.
"I had to do a lot of research with a tape measure to come up with the optimum size for the adverts!" added Dan.
Corporate sponsors will be offered a special deal for their clients to visit the club and Dan reckons "it could just help clinch that important contract".
Platinum lap dancer Emma-Louise, who has had a stencil applied to her bottom as part of the research stage, said; "I think it's a nice fun idea and a bit quirky which is exactly the kind of thing that sets the Platinum Lounge apart from many other venues of this type.
"I always like to help out, and anything which helps promote anybody's business must be a good thing, especially during these 'credit crunch' times."
SINC SAYS:
Seems to me to be a rather limited audience reach would it not? Whoops, I forgot, you can’t reach out and touch someone in one of those joints.
27/11/2008 00:30
Dear Valued Buyer,
"My commitment to you is offering great service, paying attention to detail, and placing your needs above all else on these two excellent Morinville homes."
Selling or buying a home can be a very stressful and emotional time. As your REALTOR®, you will enjoy the buying or selling experience and be comforted that I am working for you.
Please allow me, Peter Müller, to take care of your real estate needs. Whether it is to talk about how the market is affecting your home, giving you a FREE home evaluation, or by allowing me to SELL or FIND you a home at the best price possible. When you’re ready to look for that perfect house, allow me to assist you to make it your home.
Call me at 780-458-8300. Cell 780-996-0208 or e-mail me at peter@makeityourhome.ca or visit my web site.
Daly Shrugs Off Criticism, Eyes Australian Title
27/11/2008 00:29
MELBOURNE - Double major winner John Daly on Wednesday shrugged off criticism of his personal life and said he was doing his best to get his golf game back.
The troubled U.S. star was speaking to reporters ahead of the Australian Masters this week and after shooting a sparkling 62 at the UBS Hong Kong Open on Sunday, raising hopes he could rescue his flagging career.
Daly, 42, whose problems include drink, injury, his weight, multiple divorces and a night in jail last month, said his personal life was not as bad as media suggest.
Daly responded with good humour to comments made on Monday by Australian golfer Stuart Appleby, who compared the American's life to a "train wreck," the national AAP news agency reported.
"Did anybody survive? I'm still surviving the train wreck," Daly said, adding that he respected Appleby as a golfer and did not take issue with the comments.
Daly's slump in form has seen the winner of the 1991 U.S. PGA Championship and 1995 British Open only reach weekend play in five out of 17 U.S. tournaments this year, with tied 40th his best finish.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
You know the saddest part of this whole commentary, folks, is that Daly doesn’t even seem to realize he has a problem.
PGA Revises FedEx Cup Points Competition
27/11/2008 00:29
The PGA Tour revamped its FedEx Cup race Tuesday for the third straight year of its existence, this one geared toward making sure the winner of the US$10-million prize is decided at the Tour Championship.
"We have great expectations for the future of this competition," PGA Tour commissioner Tim Finchem said.
Based on the excitement level of the first two years, the FedEx Cup can only improve.
Tiger Woods was so dominant during the inaugural year in 2007 that he skipped the opening playoff event and could have skipped the Tour Championship and still won. This year, Vijay Singh won the first two playoff events, building such a large lead that he mathematically clinched the title before the Tour Championship - he only had to complete four rounds.
Under the new formula, points that previously had been reset at the start of the four-tournament playoffs will not be changed until the Tour Championship, meaning all 30 players who qualify for the finale will have a mathematical chance to win.
More from Canadian Press.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
Despite the much needed review and revisions, the FedEx cup points “system” is still asinine. They should forget this “playoffs” nonsense and the points accumulated at each tournament throughout the year should just be tallied at the end of the season to determine the winner. Simple? Right?
Claude Lemieux Signs With AHL Worcester Sharks
27/11/2008 00:28
Worcester, MA (Sports Network) - Five years since his last NHL game, veteran NHL winger Claude Lemieux signed a contract to play for the Worcester Sharks, the American Hockey League club officially announced on Tuesday.
"I would like to thank Wayne Thomas and the Worcester Sharks for the opportunity to show I can still play this game at a high level," Lemieux said. "I look forward to meeting my new teammates and helping Worcester on the ice."
The 43-year-old Lemieux, a 20-year NHL veteran with Montreal, New Jersey, Colorado, Phoenix and Dallas is a four-time Stanley Cup Champion. He is also one of only eight players in NHL history to win the Stanley Cup with three different teams.
"Claude called and inquired about resuming his hockey career and we have given him an opportunity to pursue it with Worcester," Worcester General Manager Wayne Thomas said. "He is here to help this team win games."
The 215-pound Lemieux, who will now need to pass through the 72-hour AHL waiver process, which would conclude on Friday, has posted 379 goals, 406 assists and 1756 penalty minutes in 1197 NHL games. In 233 Stanley Cup playoff games, he added 80 goals, 78 assists and 529 penalty minutes. His 80 Stanley Cup playoff goals also rank ninth all-time in NHL history.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
You know, folks, Lemieux should have just stayed retired, but the money in hockey is just so outrageous these days that even some of the old “retired” guys want a piece of that action.
NFL Sack Leader Smith Heads HOF Semi-Finalists
27/11/2008 00:28
CANTON, Ohio - Bruce Smith, the NFL's career sack leader, and versatile defensive back Rod Woodson are among the four first-time eligibles who made the list of 25 semifinalists for the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
The other two are tight end Shannon Sharpe and defensive end John Randle, on a list that will be reduced to 15 before the final vote on Jan. 31 in Tampa, Fla., the day before the Super Bowl.
There will be 17 finalists in all, including senior nominees Claude Humphrey and Bob Hayes and from that 17, four to seven new Hall of Fame members will be chosen.
Also among the 25 is running back Roger Craig, who spent most of his career with San Francisco and has been eligible since 1999 but has never made it this far before.
The list also includes three people in the contributor category: former commissioner Paul Tagliabue; Buffalo owner Ralph Wilson and Art Modell, former owner of the Cleveland Browns/Baltimore Ravens.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
The class of 2009 ought to, once again, be superb as there are a number of top-notch candidates on the list of 25 semi-finalists.
A Look Back At The Men Who Have Run The Leafs
27/11/2008 00:27
The Toronto Maple Leafs have a long and checkered history.
Since 1917, the Leafs have had 12 general managers, starting with Charles Querrie in 1917. There are many colourful personalities on that list, including Conn Smythe, Hap Day and Punch Imlach.
The one with the highest percentage of wins is Pat Quinn. He was the GM for four years and had a winning record of .608.
The name behind the second highest win percentage may be a surprise to many Leaf fans. That honour goes to none other than John Ferguson Jr., with a winning record of .569.
Here's a list of the men who have run the Leafs since 1917.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
For more on the men who have led the NHL’s most sad-sack franchise over the years, click here.
Announcement: Chromosome Disorder Outreach
26/11/2008 06:44
YouTube Video with
Samantha Martin:
Keep holding on. We can and will make a difference!
In loving memory of Samantha Lauren Martin, tetrasomy 18p.
Velvet Martin
St. Albert
Keep holding on. We can and will make a difference!
In loving memory of Samantha Lauren Martin, tetrasomy 18p.
Velvet Martin
St. Albert
SINC SAYS:
A moving video indeed Velvet. Thank you for sharing it with our readers.
A moving video indeed Velvet. Thank you for sharing it with our readers.
The Things That People Send Me . . .
26/11/2008 06:34
Hi There,
Was checking out your site today and love the 'front page story'. Its really growing and quite a lot bigger than I remembered when I first checked it out.
You may recall I mentioned a friend here at work who takes photos (Candis Sabean).
She's brilliant but its hard to even get her to share them.
Here are two options for the photos people send you corner . . . if you do a flowers theme at some point!
This from Candis, "Took these last night. One of my orchids -- a Paphiopedilum is blooming for the first time. (It was blooming when I got it, but this is its first time for me). I'm so excited!".
Lisa Corscadden
Ottawa
SINC SAYS:
Folks, Lisa is my neice and visits the site from time to time. She does have a good eye for a nice picture. Send more any time you wish Lisa. And thank Candis for sharing would you?
Fascinating Last Pictures Taken
26/11/2008 06:32
The words “Last
picture taken” before his or her death conjure
up many emotions, whether in front of the
camera or behind
it.
This list consists
of 10 last time stamps in history taken of and
by some fascinating individuals. If anyone has
new or conflicting information concerning the
photos or information in this list I hope you
will share it in your comments.
John and Jackie Knill
On January 13, 2005 the bodies of Canadian couple John and Jackie Knill were discovered on a Thailand beach resort. They were two of the many victims killed from the December 26 2004 tsunami. Weeks later a Seattle man doing relief work found a damaged camera and discarded it but kept the memory card in the camera. After downloading the images he discovered pictures of the Knill’s enjoying their vacation, as well as shots of a huge wave approaching the shore. With each picture it shows the wave getting closer and closer to shore. The last picture taken of them before the wave hit (shown above) was shot just after 8.30 am on December 26.
Interesting Fact: The Seattle man that discovered the images recognized the Knills from a missing person’s web site and contacted the couple’s two sons in Vancouver Canada. The man then drove from Seattle to Vancouver to give the sons their parent’s last images.
John and Jackie Knill
On January 13, 2005 the bodies of Canadian couple John and Jackie Knill were discovered on a Thailand beach resort. They were two of the many victims killed from the December 26 2004 tsunami. Weeks later a Seattle man doing relief work found a damaged camera and discarded it but kept the memory card in the camera. After downloading the images he discovered pictures of the Knill’s enjoying their vacation, as well as shots of a huge wave approaching the shore. With each picture it shows the wave getting closer and closer to shore. The last picture taken of them before the wave hit (shown above) was shot just after 8.30 am on December 26.
Interesting Fact: The Seattle man that discovered the images recognized the Knills from a missing person’s web site and contacted the couple’s two sons in Vancouver Canada. The man then drove from Seattle to Vancouver to give the sons their parent’s last images.
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Remembering Hollywood Squares
26/11/2008 06:22
If you remember the
Original Hollywood Squares and its comics, this
may bring a tear to your
eyes.
These great
questions and answers are from the days when '
Hollywood Squares' game show responses were
spontaneous, not scripted, as they are now.
Peter Marshall was the host asking the
questions, of course.
Q. In Hawaiian, does it take more than three words to say 'I Love You'?
A. Vincent Price: No, you can say it with a pineapple and a twenty.
Q. What are 'Do It,' 'I Can Help,' and 'I Can't Get Enough'?
A. George Gobel: I don't know, but it's coming from the next apartment.
Q. As you grow older, do you tend to gesture more or less with your hands while talking?
A. Rose Marie: You ask me one more growing old question Peter,
and I'll give you a gesture you' ll never forget.
Q. Paul, why do Hell's Angels wear leather?
A. Paul Lynde: Because chiffon wrinkles too easily.
Q. Charley, you've just decided to grow strawberries. Are you going to get any during the first year?
A. Charley Weaver: Of course not, I'm too busy growing strawberries.
Q. In Hawaiian, does it take more than three words to say 'I Love You'?
A. Vincent Price: No, you can say it with a pineapple and a twenty.
Q. What are 'Do It,' 'I Can Help,' and 'I Can't Get Enough'?
A. George Gobel: I don't know, but it's coming from the next apartment.
Q. As you grow older, do you tend to gesture more or less with your hands while talking?
A. Rose Marie: You ask me one more growing old question Peter,
and I'll give you a gesture you' ll never forget.
Q. Paul, why do Hell's Angels wear leather?
A. Paul Lynde: Because chiffon wrinkles too easily.
Q. Charley, you've just decided to grow strawberries. Are you going to get any during the first year?
A. Charley Weaver: Of course not, I'm too busy growing strawberries.
Stopped. Cold Turkey . . .
26/11/2008 06:20
North Carolina
authorities say a shopper clubbed an alleged
carjacker with a frozen turkey as he tried to
steal a woman's car in a grocery store parking
lot Sunday.Police say 30-year-old Fred Louis Ervin of Raleigh stole money from a gas station before running across the street to a Harris Teeter store in a town just south of Raleigh.
Garner police say he began beating Irene Moorman Bailey while stealing her car.
Other shoppers came to her rescue, including one who hit Ervin with the turkey. Police did not release the person's name.
Despite serious head injuries, Ervin got away in Bailey's car and hit several other cars as he fled. But police arrested him a short time later.
He faces several charges including assault inflicting serious injury. Ervin was hospitalized Monday in good condition, a hospital spokeswoman said. He had not yet been assigned a lawyer and was to appear in court Dec. 30.
SINC SAYS:
From one turkey to another, this turkey got exactly what he deserved.
26/11/2008 06:11
Dear Valued Buyer,
"My commitment to you is offering great service, paying attention to detail, and placing your needs above all else on these two excellent Morinville homes."
Selling or buying a home can be a very stressful and emotional time. As your REALTOR®, you will enjoy the buying or selling experience and be comforted that I am working for you.
Please allow me, Peter Müller, to take care of your real estate needs. Whether it is to talk about how the market is affecting your home, giving you a FREE home evaluation, or by allowing me to SELL or FIND you a home at the best price possible. When you’re ready to look for that perfect house, allow me to assist you to make it your home.
Call me at 780-458-8300. Cell 780-996-0208 or e-mail me at peter@makeityourhome.ca or visit my web site.
Curling Trial Tickets On Sale This Weekend
26/11/2008 06:10
EDMONTON - Organizers of the 2009 Olympic curling trials in Edmonton are hoping to sweep you off your feet.
A ticket-sales launch to promote the event, to be held at Rexall Place from Dec. 6 to 13, 2009, will begin this weekend.
Full-event ticket packages (including all 18 draws) go on sale this Saturday through Ticketmaster, said Jackie-Rae Greening, chairwoman of the 2009 Tim Hortons Roar of the Rings. Each package includes two tokens to the Labatt Patch, an official souvenir program and an official event pin.
"We hosted the Tim Hortons Brier in 2005, the Ford World Curling Championship in 2007 - however, we expect this event to surpass these championships just because of what's at stake," said Greening.
The winners of the eight men's and women's teams event will represent Canada at the 2010 Vancouver Olympic Games.
Edmonton's Kevin Martin, Winnipeg's Jennifer Jones and Ontario's Glenn Howard have already qualified for the trials. The remaining 13 teams will be decided in the coming months.
"Everything our team has done over the past three seasons has been with the goal of getting to the Tim Hortons Roar of the Rings; it is bar none the ultimate curling event," stressed Martin.
Martin and Jones were at West Edmonton Mall's Ice Palace at 5 p.m. yesterday for a charity fundraising draw-to-the-button event.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
Kevin Martin and Jennifer Jones were both in Edmonton yesterday promoting the trials, which should feature some of the very best curling the world has ever seen.
Copper Oval Inspired By City’s Flower
26/11/2008 06:09
Architect Gene Dub envisions $300M facility as part of '24-hour city' with shops, offices, housing
EDMONTON - Edmonton architect Gene Dub unveiled a scheme Monday to put up a $300-million arena he sees as a focal point for revitalizing the rundown east side of downtown.
The oval arena would be built south of police headquarters on about two hectares of land now used mainly for parking lots, he said following a video presentation at a city council hearing into the Quarters redevelopment plan.
There might also be office buildings and housing tied in to the project, he said.
"It would be a 24-hour city. You would have during the day restaurants for the office towers ... during the evening, you would have restaurants used by concert and hockey patrons," Dub said.
More from the Edmonton Journal.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
There may be some sort of new Downtown Edmonton Arena in time, folks, but right now I think Dub is dreaming in technicolor, especially in these economic times.
Engineers Work Overtime To Build Zamboni Of Future
26/11/2008 06:09
EDMONTON - For as long as most hockey fans can remember, the Zamboni driver has been a storied and enduring part of the country's national pastime.
But one day they may be rendered obsolete, thanks to University of Alberta students who took part in a unique engineering competition Monday.
As a class project, the students were asked to design and build small-scale robot Zambonis capable of sweeping the surface of a rink. And while none of their creations will be doing laps at Rexall Place soon, that may change one day.
"I don't think it's very far off at all," said competitor Peter Ullman. "With a little more time and better materials, I think we could have it within a decade."
More from the Edmonton Journal.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
Hmm . . . robot Zamboni machines, eh? What next?
Brian Burke To Maple Leafs Not Done Deal . . . Yet
26/11/2008 06:08
Is Brian Burke the next GM and president of the Toronto Maple Leafs?
Yes, it would seem so.
Is the deal complete?
No, not quite yet.
"It's certainly headed in the right direction," Burke told TSN, "but it's not it done yet. I anticipate it will get done but it's not done."
Burke said he would have to stop just short of saying there is an "agreement in principle" with the Leafs because there are still some outstanding issues that he must negotiate and sign off on with Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment president and CEO Richard Peddie.
Burke has in his possession a "term sheet" that outlines many of the terms and conditions that would be contained in the contract - the number of years (six); the salary (about $3 million), signing and performance bonuses - but has not yet seen a draft version of the contract itself. And Burke said there are still a few other items not contained in the "term sheet" that need to be clarified and settled before the contract can be drafted.
Burke said he didn't anticipate doing anything today that would further the process.
If whatever outstanding issues that remain are cleared up this week, the earliest the Leafs are expected to announce him as the new president and GM is on Saturday.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
As I’ve said before, I hope this comes off because the Toronto Maple Leafs and Brian Burke truly do deserve each other.
Vick Pleads Guilty In Bid For Early Release
26/11/2008 06:07
SUSSEX, Va. - Former NFL quarterback Michael Vick pleaded guilty Tuesday to a state dogfighting charge, a move that could make him eligible to leave prison early and potentially speed up a return to pro football.
Vick, 28, arrived wearing wrist and ankle shackles, but they were removed by the time he entered the courtroom. The former Atlanta Falcons star also pleaded not guilty to a count of cruelty to animals, but that count was dropped under his plea deal.
Vick's mother, Brenda Boddie, brother Marcus Vick and fiancee Kijafa Frink walked in together and sat together in the front row of the gallery with other family and friends. Vick's mother declined to comment to reporters but Marcus Vick acknowledged the family was glad the ordeal was nearly over.
After the hearing, Surry County Commonwealth Attorney Gerald Poindexter approached Vick's mother and hugged her, saying, "At least some of this is over."
More from Canadian Press.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
The heck with all of this “plea bargaining” crap, folks, if you do the crime you should do the time.
Roy’s Other Son Faces Suspension For On-Ice Fight
26/11/2008 06:07
MONTREAL - Another son of hockey great Patrick Roy is facing disciplinary action for his on-ice behavior.
Frederick Roy was handed a 15 game suspension Monday by the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League for a high-sticking incident during the Quebec Remparts' match against the Montreal Juniors on Friday.
The incident happened during a time-out when Roy, a forward with the Remparts, struck Montreal defenceman Vincent Bourgeois in the mouth.
The league made the decision after reviewing a video of the incident and interviewing all those involved.
The video has since been posted on YouTube.
The suspension comes eight months after his brother Jonathan Roy was suspended for seven games by the QMJHL for participating an on-ice fight. Jonathan Roy, a goaltender with the Remparts, attacked opposing goaltender Bobby Nadeau during a game against the Chicoutimi Sagueneens. He is facing criminal charges for his actions.
Roy skated the length of the ice during a brawl and barrelled over Nadeau before hitting him repeatedly. He then made an obscene gesture to Chicoutimi's fans.
Patrick Roy, the Remparts' coach, was suspended for five games for apparently encouraging his son during that fight.
That incident prompted Quebec's sports minister to create a committee to address the issue of gratuitous violence in hockey.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
Well, how does that old saying go? Like father, like sons.
Does Henday's "No 137th Exit" Include Ray Gibbon Drive?
25/11/2008 05:11
Province provides the
dirt, but refuses to pay for paving 137th Ave.
off-ramps to ring
roadEDMONTON - Cash-strapped civic politicians say an interchange might not open for years on Anthony Henday Drive at 137th Avenue after the province decided it wouldn't pay to complete the work.
Although the provincial government is putting a bridge across the Henday at that location and roughing in the on-off ramps, it won't cover the estimated $5-million to $10-million cost of paving the ramps because officials don't feel access is needed now.
But political leaders in Edmonton and St. Albert say they don't have money for this unexpected project in budgets stretching out as far as 10 years.
"We're not going to spend $7 million to pave it and plan it," St. Albert Mayor Nolan Crouse said Monday.
"It's going to sit there until there's another plan, and right now we don't have a plan ... we have taken the position that we think it's the province's responsibility, and they say they won't."
Construction of the Henday from Yellowhead Trail to Manning Drive began in August after the government awarded a private consortium a $1.4-billion contract that includes eight interchanges and five "flyover" bridges that don't connect to the freeway.
Complete details in today's Edmonton Journal.
SINC SAYS:
If there is to be no access off the Henday to 137th avenue, does it not follow that there would be no access onto Ray Gibbon Drive either? After all they are now one and the same access at that intersection, aren’t they?
Can anyone out there clarify just what impact this Henday no access issue really means for St. Albert?
I shudder to think that I might be right.
-----------------------------------------------------
READER RESPONSE:
SINC SAYS:
Thankfully a reader has provided more accurate information on this issue and Ray Gibbon Drive does indeed have access to the Henday. Our reader wrote:
"For the sake of accuracy of information for your readers, I thought you might want to check out this map which clearly shows that Ray Gibbon Drive (north) and 184 St (south) will have an interchange at Anthony Henday Drive. The 137th Ave interchange (or now flyover perhaps) is the next one further along." (Click to see larger image)
READER RESPONSE:
SINC SAYS:
Thankfully a reader has provided more accurate information on this issue and Ray Gibbon Drive does indeed have access to the Henday. Our reader wrote:
"For the sake of accuracy of information for your readers, I thought you might want to check out this map which clearly shows that Ray Gibbon Drive (north) and 184 St (south) will have an interchange at Anthony Henday Drive. The 137th Ave interchange (or now flyover perhaps) is the next one further along." (Click to see larger image)
St. Albert Taxpayers Tell Council - Enough!
25/11/2008 02:59
Yesterday we told you
about the Taxpayers Association's presentation
to city council. Here is a detailed report on
its
contents.The St. Albert Taxpayer’s Association said ENOUGH! Presenting their perspective on the proposed budget and budgeting process to Council, they suggested that there are opportunities for Council to listen to the voice of the taxpayer and:
• To look for expenditure cuts and find dollars for high priority projects by looking for efficiencies and eliminating projects and programs that are neither highly important or satisfactory to residents.
• To limit capital projects by asking do we really need it now particularly given the fall off in growth.
• To increase staff by the same percentage as the city grows over the budget period (about 6 positions rather than the 40 being asked for this year)
• To pursue excellence and change the line by line budget process to zero base budgeting for 2010 and forward.
In short, we do not believe the St. Albert Taxpayer can afford the “Cadillac” and “World Class” models that St. Albert seems to have pursued in the past.
Council asked questions and expressed thanks for the presentation and one councilor commented that “we do not receive much public input”. One way for you, the taxpayer, to provide input is to become involved with the St. Albert Taxpayers Association. We are a new non-profit organization established in mid 2008 and provide a voice for taxpayers to express their views. Join us, write a letter or become involved in our projects. Our next meeting is this Thursday, November 26th, at 7:00 pm, at the Seniors Center, 7 Tache Street, St. Albert. For more information visit our website at www.saintcitytaxpayer.org or e-mail us at lynda@saintcitytaxpayer.org.
SINC SAYS:
The St. Albert Taxpayers Association has done a fine job of presenting the view of average taxpayers to city council. This group is well on its way to becoming a credible and viable force in our community. Our hat is off to the organizers and members in their fight for reasonable taxation. Sadly, until city council carves out the cancer in administration that is the root cause of this high taxation, nothing will change.
Just A Painted Floor Indeed . . .
25/11/2008 02:54
Click on image to
see larger version.
Would this mess up your mind? Would you be able to walk into this bathroom?
It kinds takes your breath away doesn’t it?
I mean think about it folks. You’re over at the neighbours remodelling party and had a few drinks when nature calls.
You ask where the John is and find your way down the hall and open the door . . .
SINC SAYS:
Uh, excuse me, I gotta run home for a minute.
Would this mess up your mind? Would you be able to walk into this bathroom?
It kinds takes your breath away doesn’t it?
I mean think about it folks. You’re over at the neighbours remodelling party and had a few drinks when nature calls.
You ask where the John is and find your way down the hall and open the door . . .
SINC SAYS:
Uh, excuse me, I gotta run home for a minute.
"Uses of Coffee Filters"
25/11/2008 02:50
1. Cover bowls or
dishes when cooking in the microwave. Coffee
filters make excellent covers.
2. Clean windows and mirrors. Coffee filters are lint-free so they'll leave windows sparkling.
3. Protect china. Separate your good dishes by putting a coffee filter between each dish.
4. Filter broken cork from wine. If you break the cork when opening a wine bottle, filter the wine through a coffee filter.
5. Protect a cast-iron skillet. Place a coffee filter in the skillet to absorb moisture and prevent rust.
6. Apply shoe polish. Ball up a lint-free coffee filter.
7. Recycle frying oil. After frying, strain oil through a sieve lined with a coffee filter.
8. Weigh chopped foods. Place chopped ingredients in a coffee filter on a kitchen scale.
9. Hold tacos. Coffee filters make convenient wrappers for messy foods.
10. Stop the soil from leaking out of a plant pot. Line a plant pot with a coffee filter to prevent the soil from going through the drainage holes.
11. Prevent a popsicle from dripping. Poke one or two holes as needed in a coffee filter.
12. Put a few in a plate and put your fried bacon, french fries, chicken fingers, etc. on them. Soaks out all the grease.
13. Keep in the bathroom. They make great razor nick fixers.
SINC
SAYS:
I've been known to
use them to strain chicken broth when I want
super clear soup broth.
25/11/2008 02:46
IT has been a bumper year of UFO sightings, crop circles and paranormal phenomena.
But now for a seriously spooky tale of things that go squeak in the night . . . and the morning.
A Bristol family have got a haunted SOFA.
-----------------------------------------
Click to listen to the spooky sofa
The audio link is tricky folks. Look carefully at the bottom of the window for the control to play the sound bite.
-----------------------------------------
“One Sunday morning I sat down on it with a cup of tea and suddenly heard this odd squeaky noise,” said receptionist Christine STRANGE (stop tittering at the back), 52. “I thought I must be going mad but Poppy, my Yorkshire terrier, heard it too.
“She started sniffing around but then got scared and ran away.
“It could be an alien for all we know. The noise is getting louder and louder. I’m scared it’s going to come bursting out one evening while we’re watching TV.”
Science has so far been unable to furnish an explanation to satisfy the Stranges but Christine’s husband Nigel, 54, a service engineer, has vowed not to sit on the sofa alone until the apparent haunting has been investigated.
In these credit crunch times, the couple should be happy the suite is just being possessed, not repossessed.
Read the full story here.
SINC SAYS:
Boy, talk about things that go bump in the night. That sound, especially near the end is chilling.
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25/11/2008 02:42
Dear Valued Buyer,
"My commitment to you is offering great service, paying attention to detail, and placing your needs above all else on these two excellent Morinville homes."
Selling or buying a home can be a very stressful and emotional time. As your REALTOR®, you will enjoy the buying or selling experience and be comforted that I am working for you.
Please allow me, Peter Müller, to take care of your real estate needs. Whether it is to talk about how the market is affecting your home, giving you a FREE home evaluation, or by allowing me to SELL or FIND you a home at the best price possible. When you’re ready to look for that perfect house, allow me to assist you to make it your home.
Call me at 780-458-8300. Cell 780-996-0208 or e-mail me at peter@makeityourhome.ca or visit my web site.
Thousands Pick Free Vegetables On Colorado Farm
25/11/2008 02:40
PLATTEVILLE, Colo. -
A farm couple got a huge surprise when they
opened their fields to anyone who wanted to
pick up free vegetables left over after the
harvest - 40,000 people showed
up.
Joe and Chris
Miller's fields were picked so clean Saturday
that a second day of gleaning - the ancient
practice of picking up leftover food in farm
fields - was canceled Sunday.
"Overwhelmed is putting it mildly," Chris Miller said. "People obviously need food."
She said she expected 5,000 to 10,000 people would show up Saturday to collect free potatoes, carrots and leeks. Instead, an estimated 11,000 vehicles snaked around cornfields and backed up more than two miles. About 30 acres of the 600-acre farm 37 miles north of Denver became a parking lot.
Some people parked their cars along two nearby highways to take to the field with sacks, wagons and barrels.
"Everybody is so depressed about the economy," said Sandra Justice of Greeley, who works at a technology company. "This was a pure party. Everybody having a a great time getting something for free."
Justice and her mother and son picked 10 bags of vegetables.
Miller said they opened the farm to the free public harvest for the first time this year after hearing reports of food being stolen from churches. It was meant as a thank you for customers.
SINC SAYS:
Don’t things like this make you worry about the future of this old globe?
"Overwhelmed is putting it mildly," Chris Miller said. "People obviously need food."
She said she expected 5,000 to 10,000 people would show up Saturday to collect free potatoes, carrots and leeks. Instead, an estimated 11,000 vehicles snaked around cornfields and backed up more than two miles. About 30 acres of the 600-acre farm 37 miles north of Denver became a parking lot.
Some people parked their cars along two nearby highways to take to the field with sacks, wagons and barrels.
"Everybody is so depressed about the economy," said Sandra Justice of Greeley, who works at a technology company. "This was a pure party. Everybody having a a great time getting something for free."
Justice and her mother and son picked 10 bags of vegetables.
Miller said they opened the farm to the free public harvest for the first time this year after hearing reports of food being stolen from churches. It was meant as a thank you for customers.
SINC SAYS:
Don’t things like this make you worry about the future of this old globe?
GM Ends Endorsement Deal With Tiger Woods Early
25/11/2008 02:34
DETROIT - General Motors Corp. says it will end its endorsement deal with Tiger Woods at the end of the year.
GM said in a statement Monday that it is looking to reduce costs, and that the world's No. 1 golfer wants more personal time as he expects his second child.
Woods has endorsed GM products around the world and has been closely tied to its Buick brand in the United States, Canada and China. He has carried the Buick brand on his golf bag since 2000, and his most recent promotion was to caddie for a contest winner for nine holes at Torrey Pines, where Woods won the U.S. Open this summer for his 14th career major.
The five-year deal, believed to be worth at least US$7 million a year, was to end in 2009. Woods' agent at IMG, Mark Steinberg, said the decision to end the endorsement one year early was "absolutely mutual."
"It was a combination of things," Steinberg said. "Tiger was looking to gain some more time, and certainly it was an opportunity for GM to reduce its spending with everything going on."
More from Canadian Press.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
I guess it doesn’t look too good crying bankrupt and making a case to the U.S. federal government for $25 billion in handouts when you’re turning around and paying Tiger $7 million a year to tell us the Buick Enclave is the best thing since sliced bread.
WADA Looks To Extend Its Mandate To CFL
25/11/2008 02:34
The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) called out the Canadian Football League to start testing for performance-enhancing drugs, just as the 96th edition of the Grey Cup was set to kick off.
WADA chief John Fahey was in Montreal Sunday and expressed his disappointment that the CFL refused to join the fight against the use of performance-enhancing drugs.
"To be here in Montreal on the weekend of the Grey Cup final and to find there is no doping code is very disappointing," Fahey told Reuters following a WADA board meeting. "I understand there have been discussions and I hope they eventually lead to fruition."
"There has been dialogue between WADA and the CFL over a period of time but that doesn't suggest that there is anything imminent."
The CFL remains the only major professional sports league in North America which does not test players for drugs.
"I don't see how any sport cannot have an effective anti-doping programme," Fahey told Reuters.
Canadian International Olympic Committee (IOC) member and Vancouver Organizing Committee (VANOC) board member Dick Pound also took aim at the CFL in 2006, saying it was a 'summer camp for NFL players who have been suspended for drug use,' referring to Toronto Argonauts running back Ricky Williams, who was playing in the CFL while serving a one-year drug suspension from the NFL.
"It's just inconceivable that a professional football league in our day and age actually takes the view that there's no problem in the sport, and therefore, doesn't even bother to test to confirm that hypothesis," Pound said.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
Don’t get me wrong, folks, I’m not condoning drug use or ‘doping’ in professional sport, but it seems like Fahey and WADA must not have enough to do when they are this aggressively trying to expand their mandate to cover the CFL. Talk about empire building. There are a few unions that could learn a lesson or two from these guys.
NHL Eyes More Games Against European Teams
25/11/2008 02:33
ZURICH, Switzerland - The NHL and hockey's world governing body said Monday they want to stage more matches between North American and European club teams.
The two sides have agreed to create a working group that will explore ways of building on the success of the first Victoria Cup last month, which saw the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) bring the New York Rangers to play European champion Metallurg Magnitogorsk of Russia in a million-dollar match in the Swiss capital Bern.
Gary Bettman, the NHL's commissioner, said he was intrigued by the new IIHF-organized Champions Hockey League (CHL), which features 12 teams competing over five months in round-robin groups and a knockout stage to be crowned Europe's top club.
"We believe the format and infrastructure that have been established are very good for the growth of hockey," Bettman said in a statement.
More from Canadian Press.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
As I have said on this forum many times, before Bettman gets all gung-ho and off on this tangent, he has a lot of work to do right here at home and in the United States.
Sentencing For Guy Lafleur’s Son Delayed
25/11/2008 02:33
MONTREAL - The sentencing for the son of Montreal Canadiens hockey legend Guy Lafleur on 14 charges has been delayed until February.
A Quebec judge says he didn't have enough time to consult Mark Lafleur's psychiatric evaluation to set a sentence.
The 23-year-old man pleaded guilty to the charges in June after two sexual-assault charges against him were dropped.
The 14 charges against Mark Lafleur include uttering death threats, forcible confinement and assault.
The accusations stem from a tumultuous relationship Lafleur had with a 14-year-old girl, who is now 19.
The hockey legend and his son sat next to each other in court, and both maintained blank expressions as judge Serge Boisvert announced that the sentencing date would be pushed back to Feb. 5.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
Hmm . . . lemme see, 14 charges – it should be quite a sentence.
Ex-Presidents’ In Running To Replace Upshaw
25/11/2008 02:32
Four former NFL Players Association presidents as well as Fred Nance, a sports lawyer who represents NBA star LeBron James, are among the list of candidates being considered to replace the late Gene Upshaw as the union's executive director, a person with knowledge of the search process told The Associated Press on Sunday.
Nance is a Cleveland-based lawyer who was one of five finalists for the NFL commissioner's job two years ago, and also played a role in brokering the return of the Browns to Cleveland in 1999. Phone and email messages left with Nance were not immediately returned.
Troy Vincent and Trace Armstrong - two of the union's most recent former presidents - made the latest cut after the NFLPA narrowed the list of candidates to about 14 from 25 last week. Two other former union presidents also made the list: Mike Kenn, a former Atlanta Falcons offensive lineman who served as Fulton County Commission Chairman in Georgia earlier this decade; and George Martin, the former New York Giants defensive end who recently completed a cross-country walk to raise US$2 million for sick 9/11 rescue workers.
Also making the cut is sports lawyer David Cornwell, who most recently represented a group of NFL players appealing suspensions for taking a diuretic that is a masking agent for steroids. Cornwell did not immediately return a phone message, while both Vincent and Armstrong declined comment when reached by the AP.
A portion of the list was provided by a person who spoke on condition of anonymity because the person is not authorized to release such information. The list also includes candidates who have no previous ties to the union or the NFL, as the NFLPA seeks to replace Upshaw, who died in August.
More from Canadian Press.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
I wonder if you can vote for “none of the above?”
St. Albert Taxpayers Tell Council - Enough!
24/11/2008 06:23
News Release:
Contact: Lynda Flannery, President
www.saintcitytaxpayer.org; lynda@saintcitytaxpayer.org; or 780-418-5659
Living in St. Albert Can be Taxing!
St. Albert taxes have soared over the past 8 years by 115% and are still climbing. The municipal workforce has grown by 70%. For this the taxpayer gets Servus Place, a $1.5-2 Million annual drain on the taxpayers purse over the foreseeable future (amounting to a 3-4% tax increase), and Ray Gibbon Drive….the road to development that isn’t likely to happen soon and for which we have paid $90Million.
Now City Administration suggests that on top of this, they need 28% more money and 26% more staff for the next 3 years—when the economy is hitting the skids, even here in Alberta. This means the average taxpayer would pay $936 more each year in taxes and utilities than they paid in 2008.
The St. Albert Taxpayer’s Association said ENOUGH! Presenting their perspective on the proposed budget and budgeting process to Council, they suggested that there are opportunities for Council to listen to the voice of the taxpayer.
SINC SAYS:
Be sure to mark this coming Thursday evening on your calendar folks. That's when the St. Albert Taxpayers Association's next meeting will take place at 7:00 pm, at the Seniors Center, 7 Tache Street, St. Albert. Stay tuned tomorrow when we will bring you details of just what the Association told council members.
Meet Harvey The Dog
24/11/2008 06:16
Who gets his daily exercise riding the waves
His name is Harvey and he's a surfer of the highest pedigree.
After all, it's not everyone who can balance with four feet on the board at once - let alone use his tail as a rudder.
The three-year-old labrador is the pet of Scott Pearson and his 16-year-old son James, both keen surfers.
Harvey takes to the waves in his new hobbie surfing
He regularly joins them on Tynemouth beach in North Tyne-side, where he has his own sponge surfboard which he carries in and out of the waves in his jaws.
'He's been in the water ever since he was a pup,' said 43-year-old Mr Pearson, from Gosforth.
Harvey the surfing dog with his owner Jason Scott at Tynemouth Beach, North Shields.
'Whenever we're out surfing he's always following us - he never stays on the beach.'
James, who hopes to join the British surfing team and is pictured right with his dog, said Harvey first took to a surfboard this summer.
'My Dad and I were out paddling on the board and Harvey just swam out to us and we put him on the board.
"He's a real natural and now every time he is out on his board people watch in amazement.
'It's great that I can now take Harvey out on the waves - I just hope he doesn't get better than me!'
SINC
SAYS:
No wonder they call
them man's best friends. Then again, some of
them are just lovable dumb
mutts.
Python Spends Week Wrapped Around Car's Fan Belt
24/11/2008 06:12
A CARPET snake has
survived a week "spinning around like a bloody
washing machine" wrapped around a car's
air-conditioning
fan.Mechanic Kit Carson, 59, found the 1m snake after being asked to investigate strange noises in a Northern Territory woman's car.
"Him and I both got a jump," he told the Northern Territory News.
"He'd been spinning around like a bloody washing machine, but the end of his tail must have been hanging out - it was all feathered and ratty."
Mr Carson, of Cheaper Car Air-Conditioning, put the dazed snake into a bucket and took him to Yarrawonga's Ark Animal Hospital.
The snake is now in better shape - although he is now a little shorter than when he arrived.
Vets were forced to amputate about 5cm of his tail.
SINC SAYS:
I've heard of using panty hose for a fan belt, but this is ridiculous.
HOW TO CLEAN THE HOUSE
24/11/2008 06:04
1. Open a new file in your PC.
2. Name it
'Housework.'
3. Send it to the
RECYCLE BIN.
4. Empty the
RECYCLE BIN.
5. Your PC will ask
you, 'Are you sure you want to delete
Housework permanently?'
6. Calmly answer,
'Yes,' and press mouse button firmly...
7. Feel better?
Works for me!
Works for me!
Remembering Hollywood Squares
24/11/2008 05:53
If you remember the
OriginalHollywood Squares and its comics, this
may bring a tear to your
eyes.
These great
questions and answers are from the days when '
Hollywood Squares' game show responses were
spontaneous, not scripted, as they are now.
Peter Marshall was the host asking the
questions, of course.
Q. Do female frogs croak?
A. Paul Lynde: If you hold their little heads under water long enough.
Q. If you're going to make a parachute jump, at least how high should you be?
A. Charley Weaver: Three days of steady drinking should do it.
Q. True or False, a pea can last as long as 5,000 years.
A. George Gobel: Boy, it sure seems that way sometimes.
Q. You've been having trouble going to sleep. Are you probably a man or a woman?
A. Don Knotts: That's what's been keeping me awake.
Q. According to Cosmopolitain, if you meet a stranger at a party and you think that he is attractive, is it okay to come out and ask him if he's married?
A. Rose Marie: No; wait until morning.
Q. Which of your five senses tends to diminish as you get older?
A. Charley Weaver: My sense of decency.
Q. Do female frogs croak?
A. Paul Lynde: If you hold their little heads under water long enough.
Q. If you're going to make a parachute jump, at least how high should you be?
A. Charley Weaver: Three days of steady drinking should do it.
Q. True or False, a pea can last as long as 5,000 years.
A. George Gobel: Boy, it sure seems that way sometimes.
Q. You've been having trouble going to sleep. Are you probably a man or a woman?
A. Don Knotts: That's what's been keeping me awake.
Q. According to Cosmopolitain, if you meet a stranger at a party and you think that he is attractive, is it okay to come out and ask him if he's married?
A. Rose Marie: No; wait until morning.
Q. Which of your five senses tends to diminish as you get older?
A. Charley Weaver: My sense of decency.
Have You Ever Wondered . . .
24/11/2008 05:53
What it's like to
be stranded in a
flood?
What is it like to
go swimming with the
dolphins?
24/11/2008 05:46
Dear Valued Buyer,
"My commitment to you is offering great service, paying attention to detail, and placing your needs above all else on these two excellent Morinville homes."
Selling or buying a home can be a very stressful and emotional time. As your REALTOR®, you will enjoy the buying or selling experience and be comforted that I am working for you.
Please allow me, Peter Müller, to take care of your real estate needs. Whether it is to talk about how the market is affecting your home, giving you a FREE home evaluation, or by allowing me to SELL or FIND you a home at the best price possible. When you’re ready to look for that perfect house, allow me to assist you to make it your home.
Call me at 780-458-8300. Cell 780-996-0208 or e-mail me at peter@makeityourhome.ca or visit my web site.
Burris, DeAngelis Lead Stamps To Grey Cup Win
24/11/2008 05:42
Henry Burris may not have a Most Outstanding Player award but he has a Grey Cup ring.
Burris threw for 328 yards with one touchdown and led all rushers with 70 yards on the ground as the Stampeders rallied from a 13-10 halftime deficit and rolled to a 22-14 victory over the Montreal Alouettes in the Grey Cup.
Burris was named the Most Valuable Player of the Game and showed his relief at losing the tag of being unable to win the big game.
"There was so many times I used to hear that song 'We are the Champions,' I never could listen to the whole song because I always wanted to be a champion," Burris told TSN after the game. "This is what we fight for. This is what we go through the ups and downs for. Right now, it's like I'm living a dream."
In front of 66,305 fans at Olympic Stadium in Montreal, DeAngelis kicked five field goals, connecting from 44, 12, 21, 30 and 50 yards out and took home Most Valuable Canadian honors.
"This is one of the greatest days of my life," the Niagara Falls, Ontario native told TSN. "We are immortal."
More from TSN.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
'Immortal,' Sandro, 'immortal?' Not really. Egomaniacal? Much more likely.
Brett Favre And Jets Hand Titans First Loss
24/11/2008 05:42
Nashville, TN (Sports Network) - Brett Favre threw for 224 yards with two touchdowns and Leon Washington ran for a pair of scores, as the New York Jets ended Tennessee's undefeated season with a 34-13 rout at LP Field.
Thomas Jones ran for 96 yards on 27 carries and caught a touchdown pass for the Jets (8-3), who remained atop the AFC East with their fifth straight win. Washington finished with eight carries for 82 yards -- 61 coming on a touchdown run in the fourth quarter that essentially put the game away.
Favre completed 25-of-32 passes with an interception and set a new NFL record with his 14th straight 20-touchdown season, breaking the mark of 13 he shared with Dan Marino.
The Jets punted only once and rolled up 409 yards against a Tennessee defense that was allowing just 281.8 yards per game.
Tennessee (10-1) had won 13 straight regular-season games dating back to last season, but managed only 88 yards in the first half and 281 for the game. The Titans finished with only 45 yards rushing.
Kerry Collins had thrown five touchdown passes in the past two games, helping the Titans stay unbeaten when opposing defenses focused on the run. He threw just one scoring pass on Sunday and connected on 21-of-39 throws for 243 yards.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
I hate to say I told you so folks, but it would appear the New York Jets, with Brett Favre at quarterback, are, indeed, for real, handing the previously undefeated Tennessee Titans their first loss of the season, drubbing them 34-13 right in Nashville. There hasn’t been this much excitement surrounding the Jets since the 1969 season, when a brash, young quarterback, Joe Namath, led the Jets to a stunning upset win over the heavily favored Baltimore Colts in Super Bowl III.
It’s too bad the Green Bay Packers didn’t truly appreciate Favre’s talent and that he is not “washed up.” They could have been in the Super Bowl this year with Favre at QB, instead of being 5-5 right now and fighting for their playoff lives in the very weak NFC North division.
Lions’ Wake Named TSN’s Gladiator Of The Year
24/11/2008 05:41
Cameron Wake collected his second consecutive award as Most Oustanding Defensive Player on Thursday but the accolades didn't end there.
Each week throughout the season, CFL on TSN analyst Glen Suitor paid tribute to one player for their effort, toughness and sacrifice, naming him the Friday Night Gladiator with each player being presented with a Movado watch.
On Saturday, the Lions' defensive end was named the TSN Friday Night Gladiator of the Year.
"Without question, this guy has been the most dominant player in the Canadian Football League all season," said Suitor. "In my 25 years in the CFL, I don't think I've seen a player come out of his stance so quickly with so much explosiveness. He is able to dominate and collapse the pocket so quickly."
"The numbers speak for themselves with 39 sacks in 36 regular season games over two years. This guy has been a one-man wrecking crew for offences."
More from TSN.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
Cameron Wake is an absolute monster on the football field. Look for him to be playing in the NFL next year and for many years to come.
Laval Wins Vanier Cup, Cap Undefeated Season
24/11/2008 05:40
HAMILTON - The top-ranked Laval Rouge et Or completed the 12th perfect season in Canadian university football with a truly dominant performance in the Vanier Cup, their fourth national championship in six seasons never for a moment in doubt.
Receiver Julian Feoli-Gudino scored two of the longest touchdowns in the game's history to lead the six-time Quebec champions in a near total dissection of the No. 3 Western Mustangs, 44-21 on a snowy afternoon at Ivor Wynne Stadium.
Laval was in control nearly start to finish, overcoming a sloppy start when Western looked like it might punch above its weight to dominate play and expose its overmatched opponent.
It was the first time in four tries the Rouge et Or followed an unbeaten regular season by winning it all, sweet redemption after last year's stunning loss to Saint Mary's in the national semis.
More from Canadian Press.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
Congrats to le Rouge et Or on a remarkable undefeated season, which is not easy to accomplish in any sport – never mind football.
Canada’s Rutledge Moves On To Q-School Finals
24/11/2008 05:40
Jim Rutledge of Victoria completed his run up the standings by winning the PGA Q-school qualifier Saturday.
Rutledge shot 7-under 65 in the fourth round to win the event at Oak Valley Golf Club in Beaumont, Calif., after climbing up from the 18th spot at the end of the second round. He finished at 15-under 273.
Regina's Kent Eger (278) and Richard Lee of Toronto also moved on to the final stage. Eger carded 3-under 69 to finish in a tie for seventh while Lee (280) ended the day tied for 14th.
Chris Baryla of Vernon, B.C., (282), Montreal's Julien Trudeau (285) and Barrett Jarosch of Edmonton (290) failed to make the cut.
The top 19 golfers plus ties advanced to the final stage.
At Lantana Golf Club in Lantana, Texas, Bryn Parry of North Vancouver, B.C., finished 1-over 289 to tie for 23rd and just miss the cut.
Derek Gillespie of Oshawa, Ont., (292) and Calgary's Wes Heffernan (296) also missed the cut.
The top 20 golfers plus ties moved on after four rounds to the qualifying stage.
Four Canadians advanced to the final round last week: David Hearn of Brantford, Ont., Jon Mills of Oshawa, Ont., Calgary's Dustin Risdon and Brennan Webb of Huntsville, Ont.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
Well, Rutledge now advances to the final stage of the PGA Tour Qualifying School (or Q-School, as it is commonly referred to), where the top 25 finishers out of 80 participants in a gruelling, six-round tournament earn their PGA Tour cards and exemptions into the field for all 2009 PGA Tour events. Good luck Jim!
Positive Outlook For Ballesteros After Surgery
24/11/2008 05:39
HONG KONG - Five-time major winner Seve Ballesteros is recovering well from surgery to remove a malignant brain tumor and doctors are upbeat about his progress, his Spanish compatriot and Ryder Cup teammate Jose Maria Olazabal said Sunday.
The 51-year-old Spanish golf great underwent a 6 1/2-hour operation on Oct. 24 to remove the brain tumor and reduce swelling around the brain. He was admitted on Oct. 6 after fainting at Madrid's international airport. He was released from intensive care on Tuesday.
Olazabal, speaking on the sidelines of the Hong Kong Open, said he has been in touch with Ballesteros' relatives and that they and doctors are positive about his recovery.
"Everybody seems to be really optimistic. Even the doctors are saying that Seve's improvement has been fantastic so far," he said.
"He will still have to get stronger, but he's doing fine," Olazabal said.
Ballesteros and 42-year-old Olazabal, a two-time U.S. Masters champion, teamed up to produce a formidable Ryder Cup partnership, with an 11-2-2 record.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
We wish Seve a full and speedy recovery. I certainly hope Olazabal and the doctors are right.
St. Albert's Place Grey Cup Special Part II
23/11/2008 02:00
This is Grey Cup day, folks.
The Grey Cup has been called many things over the years – among them “The Great Canadian Drunk” and “Canada’s National Party.”
More than any other festival, Grey Cup is uniquely Canadian. It's a great piece of Canadiana - our history, heritage and culture. It exemplifies who and what we are. It's the one single event that transcends provincial, cultural, linguistic, age and gender boundaries. It's the one celebration where grown men hugging grown men is expected.
It has this uncanny ability to unite east and west, young and old, English and French, black and white, male and female and brings us all together as one – as Canadians, in celebration.
Who can forget the moments – The Chuck Hunsigner fumble, the mud bowl, the fog bowl, the brutal cold in Calgary in 1975, the staple (ice) bowl and the iconic names – Parker, Bright, Kwong, Etcheverry, Patterson, O'Quinn, Kapp, Fleming, Mosca, Ploen, Lewis, Jackson, Stewart, Lancaster, Reed, Campbell, Wilkinson, Moon, Kepley, Kelly, Scott, Allen, Flutie and many, many, many others – far too many to name here.
On Grey Cuy Sunday, St. Albert’s Place endeavors to give you an insight as to what might happen in the big game later this afternoon. We hope you enjoy.
Schultz Against The World: I think Montreal's going to win. The main reason is having Avon Cobourne back and ready to play with a game under his belt is special. Also, if Brandon Browner can not play, advantage Montreal. He makes great hits and is probably the Stampeders' best special teams player. Finally, there were times during the year when Montreal's offensive line was the best group of football players on the field. I don't think they will have a dominant game but I do think they will have a rock solid game. Given time, both of these quarterbacks can destroy defences and Calvillo may have that level of time.
More . . .
When the Alouettes have the ball
Quarterback: Anthony Calvillo is the East Division's nominee for Most Outstanding Player. At 36, he has turned back time, passing for over 5,600 yards and 43 touchdowns on his way to being named the league's Most Outstanding Player.
Running Game: Avon Cobourne found his stride in late July, racking up six straight 100-yard games. He also collected over 600 yards in receiving out of the backfield. He was hobbled by an ankle injury late in the season that caused him to miss some action but he was a factor in the East Final.
Passing Game: Newcomer Jamel Richardson racked up the most yards for the Alouettes this season and was a force in the East Final. Veteran Ben Cahoon was once again Calvillo's favourite target with 107 catches and Kerry Watkins gives the Alouettes a third receiver with over 1,000 yards, one of only teams to do so.
Offensive Line: Most Outstanding Lineman Scott Flory, Bryan Chiu and Paul Lambert are part of a solid unit that has performed at a high level for a number of years. And they're all Canadians, too!
Special Teams: Rookie Larry Taylor was a difference-maker in the East Final with a record two punt returns for touchdowns. Damon Duval is always among the leaders in scoring and this year was no different. And with a net average of 38 yards, his punting has been impressive as well.
Stampeders' Defence: The Stampeders rely on a total team concept on defence. No player had more than five sacks, for example, but five Stampeders had at least four QB drops. The scheme certainly worked, as no defence gave up fewer touchdowns or fewer points than Calgary's this season. Lineman Mike Labinjo was outstanding in the West Final. Defensive back Wes Lysak topped the team with four interceptions while linebacker Shannon James was among the league leaders in tackles.
Jock Climie says the Alouettes win if: their receivers can beat man coverage and get open in time for Calvillo to go 1, 2, 3... throw. Timing and rhythm is what Montreal's passing game is all about.
Defensively, Montreal's linebackers must contain Joffrey Reynolds as well as help out with pass defence. If Hill, Ferri and Hunt fly around and wreak havoc the Als defence can get the ball back in Calvillo's hands and make life very difficult for the Stamps.
For more of the Alouettes/Stampeders match-up page, click here.
Top 10 Grey Cup plays.
Top 10 Grey Cup finishes.
Watch the latest video reports from on the field and behind the scenes!
Coverage begins at 1:00 p.m. local time on TSN and TSN-HD.
The X Factor: With evenly matched offences and defences, special teams may be key for the Als and Stamps on Sunday.
Winning First Down: Rod Black and Duane Forde take a look at how the Stamps offence can beat the Alouettes imposing defence.
Grey Cup Roundtable: The CFL on TSN Panel discuss sex before the big game and who is the coach of the year?
Peering into Sunday's crystal ball: Media and experts' picks for the winner of today's 96th annual Grey Cup game.
You Probably Haven't Heard This One . . .
23/11/2008 01:53
A cannibal was
walking through the jungle and came up on a
restaurant owned by a fellow cannibal. Feeling
somewhat hungry, he sat down and looked over
the menu:
Broiled Missionary: $20.00
Fried Explorer: $30.00
Baked Politician: $100.00
The cannibal called the cook over and asked, "Why such a price difference for the politician?" The cook replied, "Have you ever tried to clean one of them?"
Students Sent Home For Kicking Red-Haired Classmates
23/11/2008 01:48
CBC News
Twenty students from a Vancouver Island school were sent home Thursday after they kicked red-haired schoolmates as part of what an internet site declared "Kick a Ginger Day."
The students from Journey Middle School in Sooke got the idea of kicking their red-headed peers from the social networking website, Facebook.
The Facebook group was likely inspired by South Park, a satirical animated TV show that aired an episode dealing with prejudice, using one character's hateful attitude toward red-haired people.
The assistant superintendent of the Sooke School District said the principal did not find the incident any laughing matter.
"He talked to them about skin colour and hair colour and how racism is closely connected," Jim Cambridge said Friday.
"He worked with those students to brainstorm about what they were going to do in terms about their own restitution for this, in terms of apologizing in terms of public service work, and all of these students will be doing a report for him on either racism or bullying."
Dave Derpak, the principal of Vancouver Technical High School, said it may be time for schools to look at restricting access to sites such as Facebook.
"Firstly, I don't think anyone has time, whether you're a vice-principal or teacher or counsellor, to be sitting and looking at Facebook, but at the same time if anything is coming to a student that is hurtful or harmful you'd want to be able to access that information and do everything you can to help that student."
Police aren't investigating the case in Sooke, but police in Courtenay, B.C., are investigating a teenager who allegedly set up the website.
SINC SAYS:
Those kids need the same kick they gave the red heads. Trouble is that the do-gooders of this world have ruined it for discipline. In my day they’d have gotten a swift kick in the butt themselves and it would have ended there.
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Reader Questions Optical Illusion . . .
23/11/2008 01:37
A St. Albert's Place reader sent in this optical illusion and included a question:
"Don,
This one is driving
me crazy. I get a different amount of black
dots every time I try this.
Can anyone explain
how this darn thing works?
So gentle readers, over to you. Can anyone enlighten our curious reader?
So gentle readers, over to you. Can anyone enlighten our curious reader?
Man Bras A Top Seller In Japan
23/11/2008 01:34
Reuters
TOKYO - Who said bras are only for women?
A Japanese online
lingerie retailer is selling bras for
cross-dressing men and they've quickly become
one of its most popular items.
Since launching two weeks ago on Rakuten, a major Japanese web shopping mall, the Wishroom shop has sold over 300 men's bras for 2,800 yen ($30 US) each. The shop also stocks men's panties, as well as lingerie for women.
"I like this tight feeling. It feels good," Wishroom representative Masayuki Tsuchiya told Reuters as he modelled the bra, which can be worn discreetly under men's clothing.
Wishroom Executive Director Akiko Okunomiya said she was surprised at the number of men who were looking for their inner woman.
"I think more and more men are becoming interested in bras. Since we launched the men's bra, we've been getting feedback from customers saying 'wow, we'd been waiting for this for such a long time'," she said.
But the bra, available in black, pink and white, is not an easy sell for all men.
The underwear has stirred a heated debate online with more than 8,000 people debating the merits of men wearing bras in one night on Mixi, Japan's top social network website.
See the video here.
SINC SAYS:
Uh, er, ah, oh.
Since launching two weeks ago on Rakuten, a major Japanese web shopping mall, the Wishroom shop has sold over 300 men's bras for 2,800 yen ($30 US) each. The shop also stocks men's panties, as well as lingerie for women.
"I like this tight feeling. It feels good," Wishroom representative Masayuki Tsuchiya told Reuters as he modelled the bra, which can be worn discreetly under men's clothing.
Wishroom Executive Director Akiko Okunomiya said she was surprised at the number of men who were looking for their inner woman.
"I think more and more men are becoming interested in bras. Since we launched the men's bra, we've been getting feedback from customers saying 'wow, we'd been waiting for this for such a long time'," she said.
But the bra, available in black, pink and white, is not an easy sell for all men.
The underwear has stirred a heated debate online with more than 8,000 people debating the merits of men wearing bras in one night on Mixi, Japan's top social network website.
See the video here.
SINC SAYS:
Uh, er, ah, oh.
Cohon Concentrates On CFL’s Bright Side
23/11/2008 01:26
Deflects threat of NFL intrusion during annual evaluation of league
CFL commissioner Mark Cohon delivered his annual state-of-the-league address Friday without one mention of the dreaded invader from the south.
Yes, the Toronto Argonauts and Hamilton Tiger-Cats are coming off poor seasons out of the playoffs. And yes, the NFL's Buffalo Bills are set to play a regular-season game on Dec. 7 against the Miami Dolphins in Toronto.
But Cohon chose to reflect on the good news in the three-down circuit, as opposed to dwelling on the NFL or the troubled times in the Golden Horseshoe.
"I'm not going to get into any speculation about the NFL," he said. "This is a time, really, for us to talk about the Grey Cup. I am focused on building this league and strengthening this league."
The Argonauts and Tiger-Cats have fallen on tough times, but Cohon believes a turnaround is imminent.
"One season does not make a league," he said. "Three-quarters of a million people watched the Labour Day Classic between Hamilton and Toronto, with more than a quarter of that number from the GTA (Greater Toronto Area). So there were some amazing numbers coming out of southern Ontario.
"Obviously, with competitive teams, we'll do well there ... I'm confident we'll see a resurrection."
More from Vicki Hall of the Calgary Herald.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
Ah, yes Martha, there is indeed good news for the Canadian Football League after all.
Canadiens To Retire Roy’s Number 33
23/11/2008 01:25
Thirteen years after telling team president Ronald Corey that he had played his last game for Montreal, all will be forgiven tonight when the Canadiens officially welcome back Patrick Roy.
The team will stage one of the premier events of their centenary celebration when Roy's No. 33 will be retired to the rafters of the Bell Centre before a game against the Boston Bruins.
Roy led Montreal to Stanley Cups in 1986 and 1993 and is considered as one of the top goaltenders in NHL history, posting a record 551 wins in 19 seasons with the Canadiens and the Colorado Avalanche.
His career in Montreal ended abruptly in Dec. 1995, when he reacted with anger when left in goal by coach Mario Tremblay in an 11-1 shelling by the Detroit Red Wings. He demanded a trade and was sent to Colorado, where he won a Cup with the Avalanche the following spring.
"My leaving was seen as abandoning the team but I also had a feeling I was being abandoned," explained Roy in September. "Yes, I'd have liked to leave on a different note but there's nothing we can do about it today.
"The message I'm trying to send is that it's time for me to move on and I hope it's time for them. I'm very happy to come back to the Canadiens family."
More from TSN.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
Although he’s certainly not my favorite player, it’s a well-deserved honor for Roy. I will never forget that memorable game in December 1995 that led to Roy’s exit from the Montreal Canadiens organization.
Drug Test Overshadows Annika’s Last Round
23/11/2008 01:24
WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. -- Certainly, this was not the way the day lived in Annika Sorenstam's imagination. The last LPGA event of her remarkable career was not supposed to end with a missed cut, and it was certainly not supposed to end with a trip to the drug-testing trailer. To say this was a bizarre goodbye to one of the best ever to play the women's game would be an understatement of significant magnitude.
Fighting a reluctant putter -- as she has all year -- Sorenstam fashioned a 75 at Trump International on Friday during the second round of the ADT Championship. That was not good enough to be one of the 16 qualifiers to make it to the weekend and have a chance at the $1 million first prize. In Sorenstam's entire LPGA career, which began in 1994, it was only her 10th missed cut. It was, however, the second time in a month she had been randomly selected for drug testing.
Annika Sorenstam hugged her caddie after finishing what turned out to be her last round of LPGA golf Friday.
"I would have been fine if they had done it yesterday, not tell me when I was walking off the 18th green of my last tournament and trying to enjoy the moment with my family," an angry Sorenstam said about the drug testing as she prepared to drive home to Orlando. She had been tested at the Kapalua LPGA Classic Oct. 16-19.
The LPGA said it was merely a matter of numbers. "The numbers come up, and you test the players whose numbers come up," said LPGA general counsel Jill Pilgrim, who oversees the drug-testing program. "I think if I were a player, the notion that someone would be exempt for some special reason -- everyone in the field was subject to drug testing."
More from ESPN.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
What a bunch of nonsense, folks. What are they going to do if she fails, suspend her retirement?
23/11/2008 01:24
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Original Six All-Stars, Chicago Blackhawks
23/11/2008 01:23
By hockey analyst Jeff Marek
In honor of Hockey Night in Canada's Original Six Saturday on Nov. 22 with games featuring the New York at Ottawa, Chicago at Toronto, Boston at Montreal and Detroit at Calgary, I humbly submit for discussion my all-time, all-star team for each of the Original Six squads.
Last time we looked at the Montreal Canadiens, and today we have a look at the Chicago Blackhawks.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
Those are all pretty solid picks by Marek.
More from hockey analyst Jeff Marek.
Vick To Face State Dogfighting Charges
23/11/2008 01:22
RICHMOND, Va. - Michael Vick was once the NFL's highest-paid player, and he spent like it.
One of his friends tools around in a US$31,000 Cadillac DTS. His former personal assistant steers a $45,000 Infiniti M45 and has a pair of power boats. His brother Marcus has a $62,000 Land Rover and his sister a Yukon Denali.
But Vick himself is busted, millions of dollars in debt and making 12 cents an hour in his job at the federal penitentiary in Leavenworth, Kan., where he's serving a 23-month sentence on dogfighting charges.
With Vick due to plead on state charges next week, he was returned to Virginia on Thursday, The Associated Press reviewed the details of his bankruptcy filing. The documents reveal astoundingly bad financial management of the quarterback's fortune.
His salary from the Atlanta Falcons - $11.4 million in 2006 and $6 million in 2007 - along with substantial income from endorsements allowed Vick to spread the wealth, paying mortgages and bills for family members and keeping them flush in spending money.
"Chump change," Vick wrote on one $1,000 cheque to his mother.
But his balance sheet is now grim. Vick claims assets of $16 million and liabilities of $20.4 million. He's on the hook for judgments of $2.4 million to the Royal Bank of Canada and $1.1 million to Wachovia Bank, both because of loan defaults, and $4.5 million for a sports agent who sued him and won.
Meanwhile, his monthly bills are piling up: his mother Brenda Boddie's $4,700 mortgage; more than $2,000 in car payments for her Cadillac XLR and Escalade; a $2,500 mortgage for fiancee Kijafa Frink and their two children; $1,160 for Frink's Range Rover; a $781 payment for his sister's Yukon Denali; $3,500 in monthly support for his young son and the boy's mother.
More from Canadian Press.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
It’s simply amazing how many friends you accumulate when you have money, isn’t it folks? But where are they when the money is gone? As for Michael Vick – talk about going from the penthouse to the outhouse in one fell swoop.
Obama Appeals For Chicago Olympic Bid
23/11/2008 01:21
ISTANBUL, Turkey - President-elect Barack Obama made a personal appeal Friday to bring the 2016 Summer Olympics to his home city of Chicago.
Obama appeared in a 90-second taped video message played by Chicago bid leaders to the general assembly of European Olympic Committees, the largest regional group in the Olympic movement.
"The United States would be honored to have the opportunity to host the games and serve the Olympic movement," said Obama, wearing a dark suit and sitting at a desk in his Chicago transition office. "As president elect, I see the Olympics and Paralympic Games as an opportunity for our nation to reach out, welcome the world to our shores and strengthen our friendships across the globe."
Obama, who lives a few blocks from Chicago's proposed 2016 Olympic stadium, offers a potential boost for the city's chances of taking the Summer Games back to the United States for the first time since the 1996 Atlanta Olympics.
More from Canadian Press.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
After eight years of stagnation or even worse, it’s nice to see the United States is going to soon have an active, involved, energized, engaged and caring President again. Let’s see if he can also use his influence to help introduce a much needed and overdue playoff system to U.S. college football.