21 June 2009
27/06/2009 05:16
Did Anyone Tape Special Olympics Opening
Ceremonies?
Dear Don Sinclair,
I know that the city of St. Albert has been very excited and very busy in the preps for this weekend. I am the Special Olympics Olds and District Affiliate's chairman and 5-Pin Bowling Coach. I have been looking forward to this weekend since September 2008, knowing that I would have some athlete's participating in the games in 5-Pin Bowling.
I have excitedly and anxiously prepared 13 athletes (3 of whom are bowling with Airdrie) for this occasion. On Thursday morning, I received a call from the Long Term Care facility where my husband is staying, who celebrated his 64th birthday last week. He had had another stroke two weeks ago (the first being in October of this past year) and he has gradually lost the ability to swallow and speak. The nurse wanted me to know that they were sending him to Red Deer on Friday for surgery to intervene so that he would still get fluids and sustenance.
I spent all day Thursday on the phone with Courtney from SO Alberta and my support team here arranging the weekend for my athletes so that their participation would not be jeopardized. I had hoped to view the Opening Ceremonies on Shaw TV, but I was in my vehicle driving from Red Deer to Three Hills, where my husband was transferred to after successful surgery.
Would you or anyone in St. Albert have videoed the Opening Ceremonies? I would so love to see at least that part of the games. I await your reply with hopeful anticipation.
Yours in Sport!
Karen Mengersen
Special Olympics Olds & District, Chairman
SINC SAYS:
Can anyone out there help Karen in her quest to see the opening ceremonies? If you taped the event and could share a copy with Karen, please reply to mybirdie@telus.net and I will put you in touch with her.
Taxpayers Association: New Library Not Needed
On June 22nd the
Taxpayers Association made a presentation to
Council on the agenda item dealing with the
proposal for a new library. Our message
follows. Some of our comments were reported in
Friday's SCN on Page 24.
Also noted in SCN is that a survey is being done about this issue(See it here). I've done the survey and it takes a few minutes. My comments included the fact we don't need a new facility, use has gone down so there is no justification of it, expand electronic sources of information, and if anything, move it to Servus Place and use some of the underutilized space there, or to a mall for better usage and to free up city hall space for government.
Presentation text:
St. Albert Taxpayers Association, presentation to Council June 22:
• In last year's budget request for a new branch library, we heard our Mayor ask some pointed questions about growth in library use and whether that would justify looking at a branch library.
• Quite simply the answer was that library use had been contracting rather than expanding and a library was not needed.
• This is not surprising given the new generation and their preferred reliance on electronic media.
• Next we hear about a Vision that includes a new library on St. Thomas street ... no timing though.
• Then we hear comments on building a branch library to prepare us for the 100,000 population mark, in spite of our population having slowed almost to a halt in the worst recession the country has experienced.
• In addition, a commentary in our local paper bemoans the fact that folks in the NE and NW of our city must travel so far to our current library regardless of the fact that it takes only a few minutes to get anywhere in this city and that this should justify a new library.
• As taxpayers, we encourage Council to provide administration and the Library Board with clear direction that a new library is unnecessary. We do not need any studies, administrative time or reserve of land dedicated to a new library or any new “want” rather than “need” initiative. We ask that you focus on essentials, the solid infrastructure (utilities, roads, parks, paths) that brought many folks to our city. Give us a reasonable tax base so we can keep folks here and attract new residents.
• In fact, we hear administration constantly saying it does not have the people to get the job done in many areas. Hopefully redirecting resources to necessary projects would help them to do so without hiring new staff.
• As part of this request for a better use of resources, we also urge Council, in the preparation for new budgets, to give administration a key message: 77% taxpayers said in the satisfaction survey TO HOLD THE LINE ON TAXES TO NO MORE THAN THE CPI OR DECREASE TAXES, DO SO!
SINC SAYS:
Well Lynda, that makes nothing but sense to me and all other sensible people. The term “library” is a thinly disguised attempt to sneak in a new city hall right under unsuspecting taxpayer’s noses, if you ask me. Robbing Hood And His Merry Band Of Men will stop at nothing to get what they want at the expense of taxpayers. Council needs to summon the courage to fire the city manager and his top lieutenants.
Dear Don Sinclair,
I know that the city of St. Albert has been very excited and very busy in the preps for this weekend. I am the Special Olympics Olds and District Affiliate's chairman and 5-Pin Bowling Coach. I have been looking forward to this weekend since September 2008, knowing that I would have some athlete's participating in the games in 5-Pin Bowling.
I have excitedly and anxiously prepared 13 athletes (3 of whom are bowling with Airdrie) for this occasion. On Thursday morning, I received a call from the Long Term Care facility where my husband is staying, who celebrated his 64th birthday last week. He had had another stroke two weeks ago (the first being in October of this past year) and he has gradually lost the ability to swallow and speak. The nurse wanted me to know that they were sending him to Red Deer on Friday for surgery to intervene so that he would still get fluids and sustenance.
I spent all day Thursday on the phone with Courtney from SO Alberta and my support team here arranging the weekend for my athletes so that their participation would not be jeopardized. I had hoped to view the Opening Ceremonies on Shaw TV, but I was in my vehicle driving from Red Deer to Three Hills, where my husband was transferred to after successful surgery.
Would you or anyone in St. Albert have videoed the Opening Ceremonies? I would so love to see at least that part of the games. I await your reply with hopeful anticipation.
Yours in Sport!
Karen Mengersen
Special Olympics Olds & District, Chairman
SINC SAYS:
Can anyone out there help Karen in her quest to see the opening ceremonies? If you taped the event and could share a copy with Karen, please reply to mybirdie@telus.net and I will put you in touch with her.
Taxpayers Association: New Library Not Needed
On June 22nd the
Taxpayers Association made a presentation to
Council on the agenda item dealing with the
proposal for a new library. Our message
follows. Some of our comments were reported in
Friday's SCN on Page 24.
Also noted in SCN is that a survey is being done about this issue(See it here). I've done the survey and it takes a few minutes. My comments included the fact we don't need a new facility, use has gone down so there is no justification of it, expand electronic sources of information, and if anything, move it to Servus Place and use some of the underutilized space there, or to a mall for better usage and to free up city hall space for government.
Presentation text:
St. Albert Taxpayers Association, presentation to Council June 22:
• In last year's budget request for a new branch library, we heard our Mayor ask some pointed questions about growth in library use and whether that would justify looking at a branch library.
• Quite simply the answer was that library use had been contracting rather than expanding and a library was not needed.
• This is not surprising given the new generation and their preferred reliance on electronic media.
• Next we hear about a Vision that includes a new library on St. Thomas street ... no timing though.
• Then we hear comments on building a branch library to prepare us for the 100,000 population mark, in spite of our population having slowed almost to a halt in the worst recession the country has experienced.
• In addition, a commentary in our local paper bemoans the fact that folks in the NE and NW of our city must travel so far to our current library regardless of the fact that it takes only a few minutes to get anywhere in this city and that this should justify a new library.
• As taxpayers, we encourage Council to provide administration and the Library Board with clear direction that a new library is unnecessary. We do not need any studies, administrative time or reserve of land dedicated to a new library or any new “want” rather than “need” initiative. We ask that you focus on essentials, the solid infrastructure (utilities, roads, parks, paths) that brought many folks to our city. Give us a reasonable tax base so we can keep folks here and attract new residents.
• In fact, we hear administration constantly saying it does not have the people to get the job done in many areas. Hopefully redirecting resources to necessary projects would help them to do so without hiring new staff.
• As part of this request for a better use of resources, we also urge Council, in the preparation for new budgets, to give administration a key message: 77% taxpayers said in the satisfaction survey TO HOLD THE LINE ON TAXES TO NO MORE THAN THE CPI OR DECREASE TAXES, DO SO!
SINC SAYS:
Well Lynda, that makes nothing but sense to me and all other sensible people. The term “library” is a thinly disguised attempt to sneak in a new city hall right under unsuspecting taxpayer’s noses, if you ask me. Robbing Hood And His Merry Band Of Men will stop at nothing to get what they want at the expense of taxpayers. Council needs to summon the courage to fire the city manager and his top lieutenants.
Playing At LB's Pub This Weekend . . .
27/06/2009 05:16
Tonight's Anniversary Party:
Sunday Night Special Entertainment!
Fans
are in for a special treat at LB’s Pub on Sunday June
28th when Rude City Riot hits the stage as park of
their western Canadian tour.
Band manager Dan Cowan writes:
Dear
Concert Goers,
Hi - RUDE CITY RIOT is playing LB's because this is
the home town of RCR's new sax player, Jonny Mac.
Jonny is well known as the former sax player with Mad
Bomber Society. Doors at 8 pm. $10 @ the door. What
is Power-Ska? Start with Ska Music and add equal
parts Rock, Punk, Reggae and Soul. Cheers, Dan Cowan,
Mgr. Rude City Riot Skaspot Records.
Don’t miss it!
Two Drunk Drivers, Same Car
27/06/2009 05:16
CBC News
Police in St. John's said Friday that they made two arrests for drunk driving — involving the same car, and at different times.
Royal Newfoundland Constabulary Insp. Craig Kenny said a man was stopped while driving in St. John's and then charged for impaired driving and failing a breathalyzer. He said the car's owner was a passenger in the vehicle.
The car was parked and secured while the arrested man was brought in for processing.
"A couple hours later, the owner of the car returned, retrieved the car [and] got stopped by the same officer and also failed the breathalyzer," Kenny said in a statement.
The owner himself now also faces charges of impaired driving, he said.
SINC SAYS:
Some people just don’t know when they’re well off, do they?
Junk Yard Dog?
27/06/2009 05:16
You visit the junk yard and you see this:
Then it turns and faces you:
Then it turns and faces you:
Luxury Yacht Company Offers Pirate-Hunting Cruises
27/06/2009 05:16
Passengers on a new
cruise along the coast of Somalia are paying to
catch more than just
salmonella.
A Russian luxury yacht company is now offering pirate-hunting trips that promise the chance to be attacked by real sea bandits. The yachts cruise from Djibouti to Mombasa in Kenya at deliberately low speeds in the hopes of attracting pirates.
Passengers pay $5,000 for the trip, and an extra $17.50 a day for an AK-47 and 100 rounds of ammo. The price includes free origami towels in the rooms. Former Special Forces troops are on board to make sure none of the cruise passengers are injured.
And for entertainment, the comedy stylings of Geechy Guy!
SINC SAYS:
You have to wonder who the mental midget is that dreamed up this nonsense. ‘Course then again, there will be some idiots out there who will buy it.
Dancing Security Guard
27/06/2009 05:16
HE was caught dancing
on the job - but no one's
complaining.Security officer Zaini Hassim, 64, does not merely want to guard, he wants to gelek (dance in Malay).
For him, dancing is exercise. The bonus is that he gets to put a smile on people's faces while directing traffic at a shopping centre in Tampines.
SINC SAYS:
Ah yes, there it puts a smile on people’s faces, but in Spruce Grove, they ticket Dancing Dan. Makes perfect sense to me.
Woman Allegedly On Way To AA Charged With DUI
27/06/2009 05:16
EAST BROOKFIELD —
With an open pint of Mr. Boston vodka allegedly
tucked into her purse and her car swerving
enough to prompt another driver to call police,
48-year-old Noreen F. Menard had one question
for Spencer Officer Norman L. Hodergeny Jr.
when he pulled her over: “Is this going to take
long? I am late for my AA
meeting.” Ms. Menard, of 240 Main St., Spencer, was arrested Saturday shortly before 5 p.m. after another driver called police to say her car was swerving across the center line and following another car very closely as they went from Leicester into Spencer.
Officer Hodgerney parked along Route 9 and spotted the car, then followed and noticed the same things that the caller reported. He wrote that he pulled over Ms. Menard, who told him she was on her way to an Alcoholics Anonymous meeting, admitted to being drunk and said “If you arrest me I’m going to jail for two years. This is my fourth operating under the influence of alcohol arrest.”
After failing some field sobriety tests and asking the officer if he would “be her friend and tell her if she should take the (Breathalyzer) test,” she was arrested, the report states.
She was charged with driving under the influence of alcohol, fourth offense, and driving with an open container.
At the police station, she told police she would kill herself before going to jail and demanded to be hospitalized for a mental health evaluation. She used a cigarette to burn her hand, the report states.
At her arraignment yesterday she was ordered held without bail. A dangerousness hearing will be held Thursday to determine whether she is eligible to be released on bail.
SINC SAYS:
It’s better to be a drunk than an alcoholic anyway. Drunks don’t have to attend those damn AA meetings.
Hinse, Restelli Escape Knife
27/06/2009 05:16
U of A product, California surf dude slide onto Green and Gold's 46-man roster
Smiling, grinning mugs flowed out of the Edmonton Eskimos training camp lunch gathering at Commonwealth Stadium on Thursday.
No word on what the chefs were carving, but head coach Richie Hall and the organization's hierarchy had just pared the roster down to its limit of 46 players.
It was a particularly anxious day as rookies and veterans awaited words on the final cuts and what will eventually be a seven-man practice unit as well.
Among the new recruits escaping Hall's knife were local product Gord Hinse and California dude Mark Restelli, who slide in at offensive line and linebacker, respectively.
"It's exciting. You just never know going into camp what you will face and how you're going to perform, but as camp got through, I got pretty confident that I was doing well," said Hinse. "I believed I had a pretty good shot, but you never know until you know."
The University of Alberta product, selected 11th overall in the spring Canadian college draft, is one of the feel-good stories of camp, which has now officially ended. He now joins the Green and Gold team he grew up watching.
"In some ways, he was a dark horse," Hall said of the 22-yearold. "If you think about four or five months ago, other than the people at the U of A, nobody knew about him.
"He's excited to be here. That's important that he wants to be here and he's played. He's steadily improved and he's getting better.
"Where he was and where he's come from the last 2-1/2 weeks is unbelievable. You can't say enough good things about him."
The same goes for Restelli, who has shown an infectious enthusiasm right from Day 1 of rookie camp. He established himself early as one of the more active players in camp.
"I'm excited. Stoked," said Restelli, a 23-year-old California product from Cal-Poly who'll play weak side linebacker. "It's been a nerve-racking few days.
"I gave it my all, so if I got released, I knew within myself that I gave all I had to give. I was happy with how I performed. I knew that I didn't hold back, so I was confident that I would be here," added a smiling Restelli.
His is a game of speed and intuitiveness, which is a common thread on Hall's defence.
On offence, the Esks leaned to Boise State star Jared Zabransky as the third-string quarterback, taking snaps behind starter Ricky Ray and backup vet Jason Maas.
"The quarterback position was a race until the end. They had good camps, both of them," Esks general manager and director of football operations Danny Maciocia said of Zabransky and the man he beat out, Lester Ricard of Tulane University.
"Jared gives us something that the other three quarterbacks just don't have--that's just not a strength in their repertoire -- in that he can make things happen when he gets flushed out of the pocket."
"That was a huge advantage that he had and showcased over the last little while and that's the reason we went in that direction," Maciocia said.
Ricard was one of 10 cuts on Thursday, which also included Eskimos sophomores Jim Davis(DE), Sammy Okpro (DB) and Dante Luciani (WR). Rounding out the releases were rookies Therrian Fontenot (DB), E. J. Underwood (DB), Gerald Davis (OL), Ciatrick Fason (RB), Alan Turner (WR) and Andrea Bonaventura (LB).
Fason lost out to import running back Arkee Whitlock, who established himself as a talented back in the two pre-season victories.
Expected to be on the practice roster is Hinse's former U of A Golden Bears teammate Greg Whelan, a linebacker who specializes in special-teams play, and Edmonton Wildcats junior product Kevin Wuthrich, a small, but talented receiver who hails from Sherwood Park.
Defensive lineman Dee Sterling, selected right behind Hinse at No. 12 in the spring draft out of Queen's University, is another candidate for the practice roster, as is backup kicker Derek Schiavone.
"It's a great feeling. We both were talking about it earlier when we were working out," Hinse said of the 24-year-old Whelan.
"He agreed. You can't ask for anything better than this right now."
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
The Eskimos have assembled a group of talent here like we haven’t seen for many, many years. Barring injuries and other catastrophes, they should have one heck of a football team this year. Kudos to General Manager Danny Maciocia, Director of Player Personnel Paul Jones and scouts Ed Hervey and Dan McKinnon for a job really well done.
Eskimos' Defence Gets Biggest Makeover
27/06/2009 05:15
Edmonton Eskimos fans will see massive change, particularly in its defence, when the Canadian Football League club kicks off its season Thursday at home against the Winnipeg Blue Bombers.
Head coach Richie Hall's defence will feature plenty of new faces, especially in Week 1 if injured defensive backs Lenny Williams and Bradley Robinson can't play, and there's a good chance that will happen.
Gone from the 2008 unit that dressed for the East Conference final (where the Esks crossed over from the West Division) in Montreal are: Siddeeq Shabazz, Kenny Onatolu, Shannon Garrett, Fred Perry, Agustin Barrenechea, Brandon Guillory, Jordan Younger and Tyler Clutts.
The only remaining players from that corps are Williams, Robinson, Jason Goss, Jonte Buhl, Eric Taylor, Dario Romero, Tim St. Pierre and Tristan Jackson, with the last two seeing spot duty in '08.
That's massive alteration, but no need for concern, says Hall.
"It's not worrisome," said Hall, explaining any time you change the head coach, especially with an outsider, it brings on an evolution of sorts.
"My background is defence and there is going to be some influence there. To me that's a trademark wherever you go, there's always one side of the ball versus the other that might have an impact and, for us, it was defensively.
"They had a very good football team here last year, and coming in this year we're still going to have a very good team, only with some changes and wrinkles and they'll be on the defensive side."
Of course, the Esks haven't exactly brought in chopped liver as replacements. Among the veteran recruits are Maurice Lloyd, Scott Gordon, Kai Ellis, Kitwana Jones, Kelly Malveaux and Jason Nugent, plus some wonderful newcomers, including Mark Restelli, Tumbo Abanikanda, Rod Davis and Greg Peach, who all survived the final cuts on Thursday that brings the Esks roster down to 46.
Malveaux and Ellis have been outstanding in the pre-season. But Peach, Restelli, Davis and Abanikanda are the future.
"Heading into 2009, we expect to have a competitive team, one that I think will be a force to be reckoned with week-in and week-out and, hopefully, this is an edition we can keep together for a number of years," said Eskimos general manager and director of football operations Danny Maciocia.
Receivers Efrem Hill and Jason Barnes should provide a spark as well as running back Arkee Whitlock.
"I think we have a lot of speed. I think we have a lot of skill guys, impact players who can make big plays, offensively and defensively," said Hall. "The quicker we can come together as a team, I think the more --I wouldn't say fearful, that other teams will have of us--teams will be concerned."
POINT AFTER: The Eskimos confirmed Thursday that they put offensive lineman Garrick Jones on the nine-game injured list. Centre John Comiskey is expected to miss the start of the season, as well as Robinson.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
The Eskimos will have a swarming, attacking, aggressive defence this year. After years of the Rick Campbell 'prevent nothing' defence, such as it was, I can hardly wait.
Islanders Draft Tavares First, Oilers Get Svensson
27/06/2009 05:15
The future stars of the National Hockey League are up for grabs at the Bell Centre in Montreal, as the 2009 NHL Entry Draft is underway.
The New York Islanders ended weeks of speculation about who would go first overall when they selected forward John Tavares of the London Knights.
Tavares and the Islanders had to share the spotlight on Friday as the Anaheim Ducks and Philadelphia Flyers swung a major deal involving Chris Pronger. The deal saw the 1999-2000 Hart and Norris Trophy winner and Ryan Dingle head to the Flyers for Luca Sbisa, Joffrey Lupul, the Flyers 1st Round pick (21st overall) in 2009, 1st Round pick in 2010 and a conditional 3rd Round pick in 2010 or 2011.
Tavares is a skilled offensive player who should thrill Islander fans with his highlight reel goals. He has the ability to elevate his game when need be and the few times in his career where his skills have been questioned, he has responded quickly to prove his abilities.
"Obviously it has been a long time coming for me," explained Tavares to TSN'. "[I've] been through a great process in junior and now I have a great opportunity to go to a rebuilding franchise in New York. Hopefully we'll bring the tradition back."
"Now you can have the offence to match up with teams like Washington and Pittsburgh. [Tavares] is the right guy at the right time for a team that needs an identity," said TSN's Pierre McGuire following the pick.
The Islanders were busy in the early going after taking Tavares. They swung a deal with the Blue Jackets exchanging several draft picks. Columbus picked up the 26th, 37th, 62nd and 92nd overall picks, with New York getting the 16th and 77th selections. The Islanders were not done there as they made another deal a later in the first round with the Minnesota Wild to acquire the 12th overall pick (D Calvin De Haan - Oshawa Generals). In return the Wild picked up the 16th, 77th and 182nd selections.
The Tampa Bay Lightning were up second and selected defenceman Victor Hedman from Modo of the Swedish Elite League.
"[Hedman] is a very mature guy on and off the ice," said TSN's Bob McKenzie. "This is a guy who played 21 minutes a game on average against men in the Swedish Elite League."
The Colorado Avalanche selected Matt Duchene with the third overall pick. The Brampton Battalion playmaker possesses a great combination of speed and on-ice vision.
"This kid's got character, heart and soul. He can score and check, but the biggest thing is that he's a Bryan Trottier type player - he plays all ends of the ice and uses all 200 feet," said McGuire of Duchene.
Vancouver Giants forward Evander Kane was taken by the Atlanta Thrashers with the 4th pick. Although cut by Team Canada prior to the IIHF World Junior Hockey Championship, he was recalled due to an injury to Dana Tyrell. Kane played well, scoring two goals with four assists over six games as Canada captured the gold.
The Los Angeles Kings followed the Thrashers and took forward Brayden Schenn of the Brandon Wheat Kings at five. He is the younger brother of Toronto Maple Leafs defenceman Luke Schenn.
The Phoenix Coyotes took defenceman Oliver Ekman-Larsson from Leksand in Sweden with the 6th pick. Ekman-Larsson is skilled with puck and possesses a good shot, he also has the ability to deliver big hits.
The first Canadian team to get to the podium was the Toronto Maple Leafs. General manager Brian Burke was given a spirited round of boos by the pro-Montreal Canadiens crowd. Despite expressing an interest in moving up, the Maple Leafs were unable to make a deal and selected London Knights forward Nazem Kadri with the 7th pick.
"He's got a chance to be a very good offensive player," said McKenzie about Kadri. "This is a terrific kid who has tremendous offensive ability. He just needs a little consistency."
The Dallas Stars selected forward Scott Glennie of the Brandon Wheat Kings 8th overall.
The Ottawa Senators took Jared Cowen of the Spokane Chiefs with the ninth pick.
"He's a Memorial cup winner, has overcome his knee injury, but most importantly he has big body presence," McGuire said of the defenceman. "Ottawa won't be easy to forecheck against Cowen and Erik Karlsson."
The Edmonton Oilers were up after the Senators in the 10th spot and made Magnus Paajarvi-Svensson from Timra of the Swedish Elite league. The winger brings a big offensive upside to the Oilers.
"The Edmonton Oilers love speed and Svensson is the fastest skater in this draft," said McKenzie. "This was the youngest Swede to ever play in the World Juniors. He drives to the net very well and has speed to burn."
More from TSN.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
It will be interesting to see how Svensson works out for the Oilers. Gosh only knows, they need a winger who can put the puck in the net on a consistent basis.
This Eskimos' Front Office Has Depth
27/06/2009 05:15
Improved recruiting very obvious
It's all about depth on the 2009 Eskimos -- on the offensive and defensive lines, at linebacker, at quarterback, running back, receiver, Canadian talent, you name it.
But the starting point is the front-office depth that seems to have repaired a talent pipeline that sprung some leaks in recent years, with predictable results.
The revamped recruitment function begins with this--head coach Richie Hall has what his predecessor did not have, a full-time general manager.
With GM Danny Maciocia concentrating full time on assembling high-end talent, and head scout Ed Hervey hitting his stride as a recruiter in his third season on the job, the results were on display on the Clarke Park field throughout training camp.
Some high points?
This is a team that goes 10 deep on the offensive line, only two of whom are non-imports.
Now, veteran import Garrick Jones begins the season on the nine-game injured list and rookie Canadian Adam Rogers may find himself on the practice roster.
Networking is the reason Rogers is here. The six-foot-five, 310-pound former Acadia University star came highly recommended by ex-Eskimos lineman Bruce Beaton.
Rogers may well end up on the club's practice roster, but draft pick Gord Hinse, the precocious 21-yearold talent who was drafted out of the University of Alberta, will be on the active roster.
Not unlike Rogers, Hinse was flagged to Maciocia and his staff by ex-Eskimos offensive centre Tim Prinsen, the offensive line coach for the Golden Bears.
Similarly, Greg Peach, a training camp revelation at rush end, wound up in Edmonton after ex-Eskimos defensive back Torey Hunter called Hervey, plumped for Peach and sent along a tape of the former Eastern Washington University player to support his case.
Weakside linebacker Mark Restelli, a man "who plays as if his hair is on fire," according to Maciocia, was unearthed at a free-agent tryout camp in Long Beach, Calif., one of nine organized by Hervey around the United States.
Tumbo Abanikanda, who battled Restelli hard in an effort to win that linebacking job, also made the Eskimos but, like Rogers, may be destined for the practice roster.
Third-string quarterback Jared Zabransky, whose fast feet helped him beat out cannon-armed ex-NFL prospect Lester Ricard at third-string quarterback, had been on the Esks negotiation list for a couple of years.
"Jared gives us something that the other quarterbacks are not able to, or they just don't have it, it's not a strength in their repertoire," said Maciocia. "That is, he can make things happen when he gets flushed out of the pocket."
Zabransky, the former Boise State star, looked like he was born to play in the CFL in Edmonton's 45-12 victory over the Saskatchewan Roughriders in the club's first preseason game.
Tailback Arkee Whitlock's eye-popping open-field running ability enabled him to narrowly edge out the talented Ciatrick Fason and earn a depth job behind starters Jesse Lumsden and Calvin McCarty.
Actually, Whitlock, a former Minnesota Viking, is more than Lumsden injury insurance. Given all those Canadians on the offensive line, along with non-import receivers like Kamau Peterson, Andrew Nowacki and Kevin Challenger, the favourable ratio should permit him to play his share.
"What people have to understand here is the depth," Maciocia said. "That's what we wanted to provide (head coach) Hall with."
More from the Edmonton Journal.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
As I said earlier, the Eskimos have assembled a very talented and enthusiastic group this year. Again, kudos to General Manager Danny Maciocia, Director of Player Personnel Paul Jones and scouts Ed Hervey and Dan McKinnon for jobs very well done.
Unique Golf Tourney Goes Through New York Town
27/06/2009 05:15
SEA CLIFF, N.Y. - Sure, the Masters has Augusta National and the U.S. Open has Bethpage Black and Shinnecock Hills.
But none of them feature hula hoops for holes, or require you to putt past a Mini-Cooper, like the 36-hole "Sea Cliff Links."
Just a few kilometres from where the U.S. Open crowned its champion this week, residents of this quaint little village on Long Island want to raise money for their town by playing golf - through town. Though many quality courses are nearby, Sea Cliff residents preferred to use their century-old Victorian homes and manicured lawns as part of the layout for Saturday's inaugural Sea Cliff Golf Tournament.
"Most of it is going through people's yards, their secret passages, courtyards, gardens and whatnot," said Mike Lennon, the tournament organizer.
The tournament is a variation of so-called "urban golf," which has been played in communities from Seattle to Great Britain in various forms. Some of the tournaments mirror a pub crawl, with participants hitting balls through a community with stops at various drinking establishments.
Envisioned as a fundraiser, organizers are mostly promoting the community spirit they are hoping to build from the tour through town. Lennon said he hopes to raise US$3,000 or $4,000 to replace lights at the village library and to help the fire department purchase some rescue equipment.
Competitors will pay a $35 entry fee and Lennon is hoping to attract 140 golfers.
Located 40 kilometres east of Manhattan, Sea Cliff is a one-square-mile village on a 120-foot bluff overlooking Long Island Sound. The tiny community of 5,000 residents boasts 16 neighbourhood parks, many of which will be used as "holes" for the Saturday golf tournament.
The parks sport exotic names like Spooky Park, Rum Point and Headless Park, which is a tribute to a local soldier killed in the Spanish-American War. There's a Central Park and a Memorial Park, which is still known to some as "Hippie Park" because many long-haired young people used it as a hangout in the 1960s.
"It's a Sea Cliff kind of idea. It's wacky," confessed Lennon, a former New York City firefighter who retired on disability and is now a filmmaker. He noted the village is inhabited by many artists and craftspeople who enthusiastically supported the effort.
"People didn't ask why are you doing this, they asked when are you doing it?" added Zach Falk, a 19-year-old pal of Lennon's son, Mike, who is helping organize the festivities.
Resident Jim Foote, an actor who frequently portrays Theodore Roosevelt at the former president's nearby summer White House, Sagamore Hill, says Sea Cliff "has all the small-time charm of small-town America.
"There are colourful characters and everybody knows your business," said Foote, who counts himself among that group of characters.
The village was founded in the 19th Century as a campground for Methodists, and evidence of its modest origins can best be seen in the extremely narrow streets and lanes where visitors first pitched tents for religious revivals.
Nick and Karen Montagnese are allowing the yard behind their Victorian manse to be used for the tournament.
"I think it's very Sea-Cliffy," Nick Montagnese said, echoing an expression frequently heard within village boundaries. The notion of a golf tournament through town "isn't shocking," to most Sea Cliff residents, added Karen Montagnese.
"When he (Lennon) told me about it, it seemed like a very natural thing to do," Nick said. "And I think that it will become an annual event."
To protect people's property, the tournament will use hard plastic balls, rather than regulation golf balls that could break windows and leave dents. Golfers will be issued a square-foot piece of artificial turf to carry with them and competitors will be asked to hit off the turf "so there's no divots" on people's lawns, Lennon said.
And residents don't have to worry about repairing holes in their lawns. Hula hoops will represent the holes, so all a golfer has to do is get within two or three feet of a "flag" to declare success. Lennon is making flag sticks out of thin strips of wood.
"The ethos of Sea Cliff has always been a lot of characters," said local attorney John W.C. Canning, who will serve as master of ceremonies at an awards ceremony on the Village Green. "We have many individuals who march to their own drummer, but there is a tremendous sense of community."
One homeowner agreed to take down a split-rail fence so golfers can tee off from his lawn and aim shots at a "hole" on a triangular village park across the street.
Vinny and Judy Rosalez live in a unique home that was converted from an auto repair business; from the outside, it still looks like that. The interior of the home is "decorated" with some Mini-Coopers and a Fiat. Players are going to putt through the house, past the cars, past the stove and the big-screen TV, and out into a rear garage area.
"I know nothing about golf, but it sounds good to me," said resident Cynthia Martin. "People in this town have a lot of spirit."
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
As SINC often says, “You can’t make this stuff up, folks.”
‘Riders Move On Without Coordinator Richie Hall
27/06/2009 05:15
A stout and rugged defence has been the backbone of the Saskatchewan Roughriders' success the last two years.
So as the Riders attempt to move on without their defensive architect - defensive co-ordinator Richie Hall is now in Edmonton - head coach Ken Miller isn't about to abandon the philosophy that has helped Saskatchewan register consecutive 12-win seasons and the '07 Grey Cup title.
"I think our defence is going to come out and play great coming out of the gate," said Miller, who enters his second season as Riders head coach. "It will look much the same in many respects.
"There will be some differences but I expect them to play great early on."
Gary Etcheverry replaces Hall, who was hired as the Eskimos head coach this off-season. Etcheverry has served previously as a defensive co-ordinator with Toronto and Ottawa before joining the Riders last season as a defensive assistant coach.
But Etcheverry certainly has big shoes to fill. Hall was a former Riders player who spent 15 seasons as an assistant with the CFL club, including the last eight years heading up the defence. Hall was not only respected for his football acumen but well liked off the field for his pleasant demeanor.
Etcheverry will also have to make do with less as the Riders lost linebackers Maurice Lloyd (Edmonton) and Anton McKenzie(B.C.) as well as safety Scott Gordon (Edmonton) to free agency and dealt Kitwana Jones to the Eskimos.
But Miller says he doesn't expect the Riders offence to have to carry the defence early in the season as the players become more familiar with Etcheverry's system.
"I don't think that will be the case," Miller said. "Last year when Gary was an assistant coach he had a lot of influence in how we played the game in regards to effort and pursuit to the football.
"So I think we'll have some things that look the same, we'll have some things that look different but I think you'll see our defence play with tremendous poise and effort as we go through the season."
General manager Eric Tillman remains on paid administrative leave after pleading not guilty to a sexual assault charge. He will go to trial Jan. 4, 2010.
Miller remains in charge of football operations with player-personnel director Joe Womack assisting.
More from Canadian Press.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
I don’t agree with Miller that Hall’s departure is going to have a minimal effect on their defence. I think his departure is going to have a huge effect on the ‘Riders’ defence.
Steelers Owner Rooney U.S. Ambassador To Ireland
27/06/2009 05:15
WASHINGTON -- Pittsburgh Steelers owner Dan Rooney was confirmed by the Senate on Thursday as U.S. ambassador to Ireland.
The nomination was approved by voice vote.
Rooney was a lifelong Republican who backed President Barack Obama over Hillary Rodham Clinton during Pennsylvania's presidential primary last year. He later campaigned for Obama in western Pennsylvania and helped him win the state in November.
In the 1970s, he helped found the American Ireland Fund, an organization that has raised millions for advocacy of peace and education in Ireland.
Rooney's father, Arthur J. Rooney, founded the Steelers in 1933. The son took over the presidency of the team in 1975 and is a Hall of Fame owner. His Steelers won the Super Bowl this year.
The "Rooney Rule," which requires any team with a head coaching vacancy to interview at least one minority candidate, was developed by an NFL committee Rooney chaired.
Rooney has also participated in labor negotiations between the league and players.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
Wow, what a surprise - Rooney's now the U.S. Ambassador to Ireland!
NHL Expected To Finalize Next Year's Cap Number
27/06/2009 05:15
On a day when the biggest decisions appear to be made on the floor of the 2009 NHL Draft, the National Hockey League is expected to finalize their salary cap for the 2009-2010 season.
NHLPA executive-director Paul Kelly has confirmed to TSN that the salary cap will be set at a maximum of $56.8-million, with the minimum being $40.8-million. The move represents an increase of $100,000 from last year's totals.
Both the NHL and the NHLPA confirmed the players have voted to apply the five percent inflator, which allowed the salary cap for next season to rise slightly.
The league has been telling general managers and owners that the cap number could be $57.1-million, up a few hundred thousand from last season's maximum of $56.7-million.
Since it was introduced, the NHL salary cap has risen each year, starting from the original $39-million set at the end of the NHL Lockout.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
Hmm . . . they had to use the five per cent inflator, eh? It would appear the world financial and economic crisis is indeed having an impact on NHL revenues. Who’da thunk it? Certainly not Gary Bettman.
Reader's Pictures Keep Coming In . . .
26/06/2009 05:23
Hi
Don,
Been reading your column and wanted to share some pictures with you. A pair of cedar waxwings that have claimed my deck fountain. I will be sending some others in as well. Hope you are well.
L
St. Albert
SINC SAYS:
That’s the spirit! More readers pictures and they are always welcome. Thanks L! Have a picture you would like to see here? Send them to mybirdie@telus.net.
Been reading your column and wanted to share some pictures with you. A pair of cedar waxwings that have claimed my deck fountain. I will be sending some others in as well. Hope you are well.
L
St. Albert
SINC SAYS:
That’s the spirit! More readers pictures and they are always welcome. Thanks L! Have a picture you would like to see here? Send them to mybirdie@telus.net.
Aviation “Daffynitions”
26/06/2009 05:22
Hi Don,
Some good laughs for those who are aviation oriented.
1. Alternate Airport - The airport that no aircraft has sufficient fuel to proceed to if necessary.
2. Cockpit - area in which the pilot sits while attempting to figure out where he is.
3. De-icer - De person dat puts de ice on de wing.
4. Exceptional Flying Ability - has equal number of takeoffs and landings.
5. Engine Failure - a condition that occurs when all fuel tanks become filled with air.
6. Flashlight - Tubular metal container kept in flight bag for storing dead batteries.
7. Glider - Formerly "airplane" prior to running out of fuel.
8. Jet-assisted Takeoff - a rapid-takeoff procedure used by general aviation pilot who suddenly finds himself taking off on a runway directly in front of a departing 747.
9. It's better to be down here wishing you were up there, than up there wishing you were down here.
10. The propeller is just a big fan in the front of the plane to keep the pilot cool. Want proof? Make it stop; then watch the pilot break out in a sweat.
11. If you push the stick forward, the houses get bigger, if you pull the stick back they get smaller.
12. Flying is the second greatest thrill known to man. Landing is the first!
13. You know you landed with the wheels up when it takes full power to taxi.
14. What's the difference between God and pilots? God doesn't think he's a pilot.
15. Flying is not dangerous; crashing is dangerous.
If you would like more of the same let me know.
George Proulx
St. Albert
SINC SAYS:
George our readers are always up for a laugh, so keep ‘em coming. Thanks for these.
Man Damages Toilet
26/06/2009 05:17
By setting off
fireworks
at an Arby's in
Delaware
TALLEYVILLE, Del. (AP) — The Delaware State Fire Marshal's Office said a man damaged a toilet at an Arby's by setting off fireworks in the bathroom. Fire marshals said the man walked into the restaurant Thursday about 9:30 a.m. Delaware State Police are also investigating and searching for the man.
Authorities said no one was injured, although five employees and two customers were in the restaurant. The man fled the restaurant right before the people inside heard a loud blast from the bathroom.
Employees found a damaged toilet in the bathroom after the man left in a brown pickup truck.
SINC SAYS:
How can they be sure it was fireworks? I mean the poor guy might have been eating chili the night before.
TALLEYVILLE, Del. (AP) — The Delaware State Fire Marshal's Office said a man damaged a toilet at an Arby's by setting off fireworks in the bathroom. Fire marshals said the man walked into the restaurant Thursday about 9:30 a.m. Delaware State Police are also investigating and searching for the man.
Authorities said no one was injured, although five employees and two customers were in the restaurant. The man fled the restaurant right before the people inside heard a loud blast from the bathroom.
Employees found a damaged toilet in the bathroom after the man left in a brown pickup truck.
SINC SAYS:
How can they be sure it was fireworks? I mean the poor guy might have been eating chili the night before.
Shell Guilty! Justice for the Ogoni 9
26/06/2009 05:12
DELTA FORCE Film
Screening & MOSOP
SpeakersDATE/TIME: Saturday, June 27, 2009 @ 2PM
LOCATION: #5, 6th Floor, Stanley A. Milner Library
7 Sir Winston Churchill Square (downtown), Edmonton, AB
On November 10, 1995, Ken Saro-Wiwa, an acclaimed writer and leader of the Movement for the Survival of the Ogoni People (MOSOP), was hanged along with eight other Ogoni leaders, after a trial before a military tribunal that was condemned around the world as a sham. Ken Saro-Wiwa's last words were: "Lord take my soul but the struggle continues."
Shell = Guilty!
In June 2009, multinational oil giant Shell will stand trial in United States federal court to answer to charges that it conspired in horrific human rights abuses in Nigeria in the 1990s. (Note: The trial was scheduled to start May 26, 2009. On May 26, Chief Judge Kimba Wood ordered the trial postponed; she did not yet set a new trial date but set a hearing date for June 1, 2009. That hearing was moved to yesterday, Wednesday, June 3 and we are awaiting further updates.)
Join ESPA & members of Edmonton's Ogoni community for the documentary DELTA FORCE and a Q&A with MOSOP members now residing in Edmonton. Film starts approx. 2:15pm and Guest Speakers/Q&A expected to start at approx. 3:30pm.
About the film: DELTA FORCE (dir. Glen Ellis), tells the story of the rise of Ken Saro-Wiwa and the Movement for Survival of the Ogoni People (MOSOP) and its violent suppression by the Nigerian military with the complicity of Shell Oil. The film documents Shell Oil's environmental and human rights violations in Nigeria, leading up to the execution of the Ogoni 9 on Nov. 10, 1995.
Toyota Prius Hearse
26/06/2009 05:12
A limousine company has revealed its plan to create hybrid hearses using the Toyota Prius as a base:
They will cost about 787,000 yen ($80,000) each – Let the “eco” funeral boom begin!
SINC SAYS:
I dunno, I kinda think that when I take that ride I will hardly give a damn.
McDonald's Custer Toy Angers Indian Country
26/06/2009 05:12
RAPID CITY, S.D. -
Custer rides again, although he's atop a
plastic motorcycle and in a McDonald's Happy
Meal box.And that doesn't sit well with some in the Native American community.
Lt. Col. George Armstrong Custer was killed in 1876 along the Little Big Horn River by Native Americans he aimed to destroy.
But Hollywood brought him back to life as a character in the Ben Stiller comedy “Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian,” which opened in theaters May 22. McDonald's included characters from the movie as toys in its kid-sized Happy Meals.
The fast food chain's decision to circulate the toy in Indian Country is akin to circulating a Hitler figure in Israel, according to Laurette Pourier, executive director for the Society for the Advancement of Native Interests-Today. “It's insensitive and disrespectful.”
“We are oral historians, and Custer's escapades are not far from our hearts,” said Paula Long Fox, a guidance counselor for the Rapid City School District. “Custer didn't kill Indians or Natives, he killed relatives.”
The majority of the U.S. Army's victims were friendly Native Americans who would not run, Long Fox said. The military campaigns against Native Americans were driven by the government's desire to acquire land without any consideration for Native Americans as human beings, she said.
“It was dehumanizing and not honest,” Long Fox said. “It really left hard feelings.”
Long Fox said it is also insensitive of McDonald's to circulate the toy to children at an age where parents strive to teach them lessons on treating others fairly.
“It's insensitive to adults,” Long Fox said. “I'm not sure the children understand that.”
“At McDonald's, we value and respect people of all ethnicities, as well as their cultural history,” said McDonald's spokeswoman Danya Proud in an e-mailed statement. “The ‘Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian' Happy Meal features eight toys portraying different characters from the film. As with all Happy Meal promotions, our goal is to provide families a positive experience that can be shared by all.”
An e-mail containing follow-up questions regarding Native American concerns was not answered by the McDonald's media relations staff.
The “Night at the Museum” toys are scheduled to be distributed at McDonald's through Friday.
SINC SAYS:
I’ve got news for you Long Fox. You sound like a Papoose. Get over it.
Jared Zabransky Wins QB Position With Eskimos
26/06/2009 05:12
EDMONTON — Jared Zabransky has won the job as the third-string quarterback for the Edmonton Eskimos, who released Lester Ricard on Thursday to help get down to the 46-man roster.
Ricard, of Tulane, was one of 10 players cut, joining Eskimos sophomores Jim Davis (DE), Sammy Okpro (DB) and Dante Luciani (WR) on their way out of town. Rounding out the releases were rookies Therrian Fontenot (DB), E.J. Underwood (DB), Gerald Davis (OL), Ciatrick Fason (RB), Alan Turner (WR) and Andrea Bonaventura (LB).
“The quarterback position was a race until the end. They had good camps, both of them,” said Esks general manager Danny Maciocia. “Jared gives us something that the other three quarterbacks just don’t have, that’s just not a strength in their repertoire, in that he can makes things happen when he gets flushed out of the pocket.
“That was a huge advantage that he had and showcased over the last little while and that’s the reason we went in that direction.”
Among the other newcomers to the team are linebackers Mark Restelli, Tumbo Abanikanda and Rod Davis as well as defensive lineman Greg Peach, with all four showing tremendous athletic abilities.
“I think this football team has a mixture of youth, experience, with some guys that have come from other teams, that understand the CFL game,” added Maciocia.
“There’s a lot of speed on both sides of the ball. I think we clearly have some playmakers.”
Also among the new recruits is offensive lineman Gord Hinse, an Edmonton native, who was drafted 11th overall by the Eskimos out of the University of Alberta. His Golden Bears teammate Greg Whelan, a linebacker and special-teams specialist, is expected to be on the seven-man practice roster.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
I predict that Jared Zabransky will have an outstanding CFL career as a quarterback with the Eskimos. It would also surprise me very much if the Saskatchewan Roughriders do not pick up Lester Ricard. He's a better quarterback than anything they have right now.
Matty’s 2009 Mock NHL Draft Picks
26/06/2009 05:12
By Jim Matheson
Edmonton Journal Hockey Reporter
Trying to guess which players will go where in the first round of the NHL draft is like throwing darts at a dartboard blindfolded. Sometimes your aim is way off, but it's only a game.
So don't go clipping and saving this mock draft and stick it under a fridge magnet and send all-knowing darts our way Friday night after the first 30 players are picked.
Here's our best guess of what might happen in Round 1:
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
To see Jim Matheson’s (Matty's) 2009 mock first-round NHL draft picks, click here.
Arkee Whitlock Runs Away From Cutting Block
26/06/2009 05:12
Has the all-Canadian offensive backfield plan gone out the window for the Edmonton Eskimos?
Fans will not find out for sure until about 1 p. m. when the Canadian Football League club has to detail its 46-man roster and seven-man practice squad.
It goes without saying that import running back Arkee Whitlock has thrown a wrench into the Eskimos' all non-import backfield.
Whitlock looked good for the second straight pre-season game on Tuesday, and his future with the club may have been aided by Canadian offensive lineman Joe McGrath's return to the Esks, assisting the import to non-import ratio.
Head coach Richie Hall wasn't about to release his impending decisions on Wednesday, the day after a 31-19 exhibition win in B. C. But there could be some reading between the lines--O-line that is.
"We've said since Day 1 that we wanted to provide ourselves with some options. I think we have that. Some players have stepped up and made some plays, whether we have to re-adjust our decision-making; we have some different plans," Hall said after the win.
Those plans probably rotate around the success of Whitlock, which will throw the import ratio into the blender.
"It's a tough decision. It's nice to know we can go either-or. We have some quality backs, quality ball players. We have the makings of a good football team," Hall said.
The funny--or make that strange --part is starter Jesse Lumsden saw limited action in Tuesday's game, rushing five times for 21 yards and adding a catch for three more yards. Four of his touches came late in the opening quarter on the Esks' second and third possessions that did not garner first downs.
"Jesse ran hard, ran with a purpose, and that's what we want to see from Jesse right now," said Hall.
The other interesting point was neither Jared Zabransky or Lester Ricard saw action at QB as they battle for the third spot. Zabransky is said to have the inside track, but one thing fans can bet on is if Whitlock or Zabransky are released, they will be quickly gobbled up, and likely by Wally Buono. The same goes for Ricard, who would garner attention.
Can the Esks hide one of the QBs? It's an interesting question.
As for the other running back running back, Ciatrick Fasson, he was not in B. C., nor was defensive lineman Kitwana Jones, which has started rumors about his possible release.
"We were trying to play five and it would have been tough to get him in," Hall said of Fasson, who the head coach stressed was still in training camp on Tuesday.
"Sometimes, people think too much," Hall said of Jones' absence.
More from the Edmonton Journal.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
Through his performance so far, Arkee Whitlock make it impossible for the Eskimos to release him at this time and he’s thrown a monkey wrench into their plans to go with an all-Canadian backfield.
Personally, I look forward to watching him work in the Eskimos’ backfield. He’s by far the most exciting running back the Eskimos have had since they recruited John Avery a number of years ago.
How Aggressive Is Tambellini Willing To Be?
26/06/2009 05:12
Edmonton Oilers general manager Steve Tambellini will experience something new this Friday - his first draft day at the helm of the organization, when the 2009 NHL Entry Draft kicks off in Montreal (TSN and TSN HD at 7pm et/4pm pt).
With the 10th overall pick, the Oilers feel they have an opportunity to add a very good piece to the puzzle. The question is; how aggressive is Tambellini willing to be?
When Kevin Lowe, now President of the organziation, was running things, the Oilers were always looking to move up at the draft. Most recently, they nearly swung a deal with the Philadelphia Flyers for the 2nd overall pick in 2007 in which they would have selected Phoenix Coyotes forward Kyle Turris.
Tambellini is traditionally more conservative then the likes of Lowe, but he is certainly looking at all the options.
"I think every team will tell you they would love to have a chance to move up in the draft,'' said Tambellini. ''We will try, we have been trying like most teams, but you never really know until you get close to the draft day or on the floor."
If the ten spot is where the Oilers stay, there are a number of options they are considering.
Defenceman Dmitri Kulikov's North American style and solid point production with the Drummondville Voltigeurs of the QMJHL will be very attractive, though he may not be around when the Oilers select, while Sweden's Magnus Svensson-Paajarvi had a very solid world junior and is one of the best skaters in the draft. Brandon Wheat Kings' Scott Glennie has a great shot and may be the natural goal scorer they covet, while Windsor Spitfires defenceman Ryan Ellis' world junior performance certainly got him noticed.
If the Oilers do go with a defenceman, it wouldn't be a departure from their recent history. In the last decade, they have only taken a single defenceman in the first round - Alex Plante in the 2007 NHL Entry Draft. Also, heading to the draft floor the Oilers have yet to sign or trade for a starting goaltender and that may be something they may address this weekend.
The Oilers have also been in the mix on the Dany Heatley sweepstakes, and getting something done on that front may very well involve their 10th overall pick.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
I guess we’ll find out today how aggressive the Oilers' GM Tambo is going to be at this year’s draft.
Outdoor NHL Game In Calgary Will Not Happen
26/06/2009 05:12
There will not be a second NHL outdoor game in Calgary on January 1, 2010.
The NHL's competition committee met today in Montreal and that was one of a number of issues that was dealt with.
While there won't be a second outdoor game to follow up the currently scheduled New Year's Day game at Boston's Fenway Park, there is likely to be a second special event in a Canadian city.
Sources say that event is possibly a game at Montreal's Olympic Stadium to celebrate the Canadiens' 100th anniversary.
In other business:
The competition committee agreed there would be no changes next season to NHL fighting rules. There had been recommendations from the NHL GMs to stiffen penalties for staged fights, but that won't happen now.
There will be no changes to the rules on head shots, but the committee did agree existing rules on hits to the heads and fighting should be enforced more, as opposed to making any rule changes.
The competition committee is continuing to work on reducing the size of goalie equipment and the issue of "proportionality."
There is also ongoing investigation into the concept of removable visors as some NHL fighters have indicated to the NHLPA they would rather keep their helmets on during fights for safety reasons but visors are often an impediment to doing that.
The competition committee consists of Jason Spezza, Ryan Miller, Jeff Halpern, Brian Campbell, Mathieu Schneider, Lou Lamoriello, Bob Gainey, David Poile, Ed Snider and Don Waddell. The committee is co-chaired by NHL VP Colin Campbell and NHLPA director Glenn Healy.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
Good. After the original ‘Heritage Classic’ held here in Edmonton in 2003, these outdoor ‘Winter Classic’ NHL games every year are becoming annoying. That it was Calgary that was mentioned as a possible host city was doubly annoying.
Jackson Shows Why He’s CFL’s Best Kick Returner
26/06/2009 05:12
Just how good was Tristan Jackson's performance as a kick returner on Tuesday?
Jackson lit up the B. C. Lions for 236 total return yards, 170 of which came off three missed Paul McCallum field goals in the Edmonton Eskimos' 31-19 win at B. C. Place.
He added 55 yards on four kickoff returns and 11 yards on a pair of punts.
"Mr. Jackson is probably the best returner in the league and he showed just why," Esks head coach Richie Hall said of the performance, which included the 113-yard touchdown scamper just four minutes in.
"Hats off to Tristan, but there were some critical blocks out there, too. When he hit the 30-yard line and he was able to look ahead to see if anything was obstructed, he noticed there was a nice little corridor there.
"Tristan took that all the way back with his eyes, basically, he just followed his blocks," said Esks general manager Danny Maciocia.
AREA OF CONCERN?
If there is an area of concern for the Esks, it likely remains at defensive back. A big cause for that difficulty is the injuries to veterans Lenny Williams and Bradley Robinson.
The Lions moved the ball well against Hall's defence on Tuesday.
The unit bent, but did not break.
Three B. C. quarterbacks totalled 405 yards through the air, but threw three picks, one each by Xzavie Jackson, Jonte Buhl and Scott Gordon (all three passes were tipped). The Esks also utilized a fumble recovery by Kelly Malveaux that Restelli created.
BIG PERFORMANCES
Aside from Jackson, the Esks also got a great night out of defensive end Kai Ellis (five tackles, two special-teams tackles and the lone Edmonton quarterback sack) and running back Arkee Whitlock (eight runs for 68 yards for an 8.5 average and a TD).
Defensive linemen Eric Taylor, Xzavie Jackson and Shaun Richardson, and linebackers Mark Restelli and Tumbo Abanikanda were also stellar.
Richardson did take a roughing-the-passer penalty and was injured very late in the game.
"Restelli was active, all over the place. Eric Taylor is playing well and I think Kai Ellis had a pretty good first half," Maciocia said at the break.
"We've got some good closing speed on this football team right now; something we haven't had for the last few years. We're batting balls at the line of scrimmage and putting ourselves in position to make some plays."
The problem is what do the Esks do with all that talent at defensive line, including Greg Peach?
The Eskimos have to declare their 46-man roster and seven practice roster spots by 1 p. m. today.
THIS AND THAT
Coach Richie Hall is expected to start a one-hour radio show on Monday nights on 630 CHED. - Receiving numbers were not good on Tuesday, as the offence struggled with Ricky Ray trying to find his touch.
Maurice Mann and Fred Stamps had three catches each for just 32 and 18 yards, respectively, and Jamaica Rector had two receptions for 46 yards. Backup QB Jason Maas played the final 10:21. - Noel Prefontaine finished three-for-three in field goals with strikes from 34, 19 and 31 yards. - Jason Goss had six tackles, but also struggled with a sore back by evening's end. - The Esks did not bring injured players Mathieu Bertrand, Justin Cooper, Dante Luciani, Jim Davis, John Comiskey, Garrick Jones, Williams and Robinson on the trip.
Ciatrick Fasson and Kitwana Jones were also left behind for undisclosed reasons.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
Tristan Jackson is a very exciting kick-return specialist. He’s simply the best – better than all the rest. Not as good as Gizmo Williams, though, but The Giz was the all-time greatest.
Seve Makes First Appearance After Brain Surgery
26/06/2009 05:12
MADRID — Golf great Seve Ballesteros has made his first appearance before the press since undergoing brain tumour surgery and has launched a foundation to help fight cancer.
“I want to do my bit to battle this disease,” Ballesteros said Thursday.
Elegantly dressed in suit and tie and giving the thumbs-up salute to photographers, a smiling Ballesteros thanked doctors at Madrid’s La Paz hospital and all those who supported him in his nine-month-long fight.
“Just nine months ago my life was hanging by a thread,” he told journalists and sports personalities at a reception in a Madrid hotel.
“I am a lucky man, I have a second opportunity and my desire is to help others,” he said, while presenting the Seve Ballesteros Foundation to help fight cancer.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
We continue to wish Seve the very best in his recovery from brain cancer.
Watch Tiger Tee Off In Nova Scotia On TSN
26/06/2009 05:12
Toronto, ON (June 24, 2009) – TSN gives Canadian golf fans an exclusive inside look at Tiger Woods the golf player, and Tiger Woods the man, when he plays Nova Scotia's Fox Harb'r course later this week at a private charity event. TSN will broadcast the Nike Golf Invitational on Sunday June 28 at 9 p.m. ET (encore on TSN2 at midnight).
Viewers can join the world's top-ranked golfer as he plays a round with his coach Hank Haney and outspoken former NBA star and NBA analyst Charles Barkley. Haney gained prominence by coaching Woods and has recently been working with Barkley to fix his notoriously bad golf swing.
In addition to joining Tiger for some fun on the course, the one hour special will feature an exclusive sit-down interview, as Tiger opens up to TSN's Rod Black and Bob Weeks about his family, personal life and the work of the Tiger Woods Foundation.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
For all golf fans, this should be a very interesting tidbit. Since he’s so passionately private, it promises to be a very rare insight into ‘Tiger the person’ and ‘Tiger the family man’. Catch all of the action at 7:00 p.m. local time Sunday on TSN and TSN-HD.
Special Olympics Start Tomorrow
25/06/2009 05:30
Don:
Thanks for the Special Olympics plug.
The opening ceremonies (something really entertaining that has been organized by the Canadian Progress Club of St. Albert) and the athletic events are all free, and everyone from St. Albert and neighbouring communities is welcome to attend. Heck, you're not just welcome, you're encouraged to come out, even urged!
Headliners at the opening are Alberta rockers Starewell and Cumako World Fusion, which combines African music, Latin, jazz, funk and many other eclectic sounds from around the world. There's also a dance troupe - 3rd Street Beat Dance Company.
The opening ceremonies are at 6 p.m., Friday, June 26, at Servus Place.
It's also still not too late to volunteer: If the spirit moves you, call the Special Olympics St. Albert office in the Old RCMP Building, at 780-460-7009.
Best regards,
David J Climenhaga
St. Albert
SINC SAYS:
Hope your event is a rousing success David. Break a leg even. Er, wait a minute, maybe that’s not appropriate in this case.
Who Said He's Dead?
25/06/2009 05:29
The doctor is amazed
at what good shape the guy is in and asks, "How
do you stay in such great physical condition?"
"I'm Scottish and I am a golfer"' says the old guy, "and that's why I'm in such good shape. I'm up well before daylight and out golfing up and down the fairways. I have a wee glass of whiskey, and all is well."
"Well," says the doctor, "I'm sure that helps, but there's got to be more to it. How old was your Dad when he died?" "Who said my Da's deid?"
The doctor is amazed. "You mean you're 80 years old and your Dad's still alive. How old is he?" "He's 100 years old," says the old Scottish golfer. "In fact he golfed wi' me this morning, and then we went to the topless beach for a walk and had anither wee dram and that's why he's still alive. He's Scottish and he's a golfer, too."
"Well," the doctor says, "that's great, but I'm sure there's more to it than that. How about your Dad's dad? How old was he when he died?" "Who said my grandad's died?"
Stunned, the doctor asks, "You mean you're 80 years old and your grandfather's still living! Incredible, how old is he?"
"He's 118 years old," says the old Scottish golfer.
The doctor is getting frustrated at this point, "So, I guess he went golfing with you this morning too?" "No.. Grandad couldnae go this mornin' because he's getting married today."
At this point the doctor is close to losing it. "Getting married!! Why would a 118 year-old guy want to get married?"
"Who said he wanted to?"
New Take On Popcorn: Iced On Stick
25/06/2009 05:29
Go figure. One of the
more talked about items to be had at this
year's Taste of Chicago is on a
stick.The popcornsicle -- a popcorn ball put on a stick and flash-frozen in liquid nitrogen -- will be among the offerings at the Garrett Popcorn booth.
The popcornsicle is the result of collaboration between the company and "Top Chef Season 5" runner-up Richard Blais for a promotional gig for the Garrett location in New York.
"Top Chef" fans will recall Blais as the faux-hawked chef with a penchant for liquid nitrogen -- which also happens to be the key ingredient in the popcornsicle, along with Garrett's signature cheese and caramel corn mix.
Jack Aiello, Garrett's vice president of marketing, says the company wanted to mark its Taste debut in a big way, with a product perfect for hot weather.
The popcornsicle "creates a subzero feeling in the mouth," Aiello says.
The popcornsicles -- which will cost six tickets each, or about $4 -- should stay cold for a few minutes, Aiello says.
The Taste of Chicago opens Friday and runs through July 5.
SINC SAYS:
Some folks will buy and eat anything won’t they? Yuk!
Girl Dies Tweeting In The Tub
25/06/2009 05:29
People, people,
people.
Web 2.0 can do a lot
of things, but it doesn't change the laws of
physics, particularly in regards to the
transmission of electricity.
To wit: A teenage girl was discovered dead this weekend, electrocuted after dropping her laptop in the bathtub.
Why did she need a computer in the tub? So she could update Twitter. About what she was tweeting remains unclear, but it was hopefully something more meaningful than the soap she was using.
Maria Barbu, 17, of Brasov, Romania, is said to have been plugging her laptop into wall current at the time, after "the battery died during a long session on social networking site Twitter as she took a soak."
Additional details are lacking, and are unlikely to be forthcoming anytime soon. And it's unclear whether the laptop slipped from her hands or if she was so wet that the water dripping off of her closed the circuit and caused the shock.
Either way, any technology user should know by now that computers and bathrooms simply don't mix. (If you aren't worried about electrocution, think of the germs, won't you?) While GFCI circuits were designed to prevent tragedies such as the all-too-common hair-dryer-in-the-tub accident, they aren't perfect, and they aren't universal, especially overseas.
And seriously, can't Twitter wait until you get out of the bathtub?
SINC SAYS:
I just knew Twitter was bad for you. Facebook too.
To wit: A teenage girl was discovered dead this weekend, electrocuted after dropping her laptop in the bathtub.
Why did she need a computer in the tub? So she could update Twitter. About what she was tweeting remains unclear, but it was hopefully something more meaningful than the soap she was using.
Maria Barbu, 17, of Brasov, Romania, is said to have been plugging her laptop into wall current at the time, after "the battery died during a long session on social networking site Twitter as she took a soak."
Additional details are lacking, and are unlikely to be forthcoming anytime soon. And it's unclear whether the laptop slipped from her hands or if she was so wet that the water dripping off of her closed the circuit and caused the shock.
Either way, any technology user should know by now that computers and bathrooms simply don't mix. (If you aren't worried about electrocution, think of the germs, won't you?) While GFCI circuits were designed to prevent tragedies such as the all-too-common hair-dryer-in-the-tub accident, they aren't perfect, and they aren't universal, especially overseas.
And seriously, can't Twitter wait until you get out of the bathtub?
SINC SAYS:
I just knew Twitter was bad for you. Facebook too.
HOW TO INSTALL A HOME SECURITY SYSTEM
25/06/2009 05:29
1. Go to a secondhand
store and buy a pair of men's used size 14-16
work boots.
2. Place them on your front porch, along with a copy of Guns & Ammo Magazine.
3. Put a few giant dog dishes next to the boots and magazines.
4. Leave a note on your door that reads:
"Bubba,
Bertha, Duke, Slim, and I went for more ammo and beer. Be back in an hour. Don't mess with the pit bulls; they attacked the mailman this morning and messed him up bad. I don't think Killer took part, but it was hard to tell from all the blood. Anyway, I locked all four of 'em in the house.
Better wait outside. Be right back.
Cooter
SINC SAYS:
Yep. Right. That ought to do it!
Residents Angry After Town's Only Pub Shut Down
25/06/2009 05:29
Kumara residents are
thirsty - and
angry.From its goldmining heyday, when the West Coast township had a tally of 50 pubs, it now has none after the Liquor Licensing Authority cancelled the licence of Empire Hotel publican Peter Jenkinson.
The pub's closure has turned some thirsty residents against woodturner Carey Dillon, who campaigned to have the pub closed down, the Press reported.
Mr Dillon, whose store and home is diagonally opposite the Empire on the main road supplied the authority with videos showing patrons drinking and smoking on the street outside the pub. He appeared at the authority's hearing as an objector.
The authority described several cases of drunken behaviour caught on camera.
In cancelling the licence and Mr Jenkinson's manager's certificate, the authority said: "We have seldom heard a worse summary of the previous 18 months in terms of the manner in which the sale of liquor has been conducted."
Several agencies, including police and Ministry of Health, supported the application to shut down the pub.
Kumara residents yesterday defended the antics, saying the town, with a population of 405, was a close-knit community where there was no trouble because everyone knew everyone else.
Some residents criticised Mr Dillon.
"No one else in town minds," said one man.
John MacLennan, who is applying for a new licence for the pub, said Mr Dillon could be seen "running round with his video camera" after midnight on some nights.
Mr Dillon was unable to be contacted yesterday, and his home and shop were locked.
Mr MacLennan said the new licence had been applied for, and he hoped the pub would reopen early next month.
SINC SAYS:
Wanna bet that bloke doesn’t do much business in the future? Or even remain in the town for that matter. Don’t mess with the neighbourhood pub folks.
Eskimos Beat Lions 31-19 In Last Pre-Season Tilt
25/06/2009 05:29
VANCOUVER — If Richie Hall and the Edmonton Eskimos’ hierarchy are to evaluate their offence on its first-half, first-team performance on Tuesday, they’ll likely want to burn the video.
It’s a good thing for them football is a 60-minute game, and the defence stood tall.
The Esks’ O was downright offensive for the first 25 minutes of its second pre-season outing, yet the Green and Gold held on for a 31-19 win over the B.C. Lions at B.C. Place Stadium.
Strange but true.
“Not very good. I was off my game tonight,” admitted Ricky Ray, who struggled mightily through the first 25 minutes. “I didn’t make very good throws there to start the game. We had a couple of good drives. Along with the bad throws I missed a few reads here and there that could have been touchdowns. I just have to get better.”
The first-quarter offensive evaluation amounted to six plays, no first downs and just 13 yards, all of which came from Jesse Lumsden; 10 on the ground and three through the air.
The Ray-led unit actually didn’t see the field until the 8:54 mark, courtesy of a spectacular 113-yard touchdown run by return man Tristan Jackson off a missed Paul McCallum field goal. Jackson went the distance for a 7-0 lead just 4:50 in.
“I’ll take that, if we can return ones for touchdowns. I’ll sit on the sidelines as long as I have to. But, yeah, you do get anxious. You try to stay warm and wait for your opportunity to get out there,” added Ray, who was just six of 10 for 91 yards and a TD in the opening half. He was also sacked three times. The Esks recorded five first downs in the opening 30 minutes, but none in the first 15 and the possession time favoured the Lions by 5:30 by the midway mark.
“It’s not like we had a ton of snaps in the first half. We started the game off with four two-and-outs,” said coach Hall.
It wasn’t until late in the second quarter that Ray finally got something going as he found Andrew Nowacki on a 27-yard TD strike at 12:43 to make it 18-2. It came after Prefontaine recorded a 50-yard punt single and a 35-yard field goal for an 11-2 advantage.
The defensive highlights included picks by Jonte Buhl and Scott Gordon on a pair of deflected passes and a fumble recovery by Kelly Malveaux after Mark Restelli forced the ball loose deep in Edmonton territory late in the opening half.
“The reality is we were pitching a shutout in the first half, which doesn’t happen too many times against the B.C. Lions,” Esks GM Danny Maciocia said of his defensive crew.
Offensively, it was hard to blame any one thing as Ray and Co. waited for a period of time before even taking the field. Ray finished 12 of 18 for 139 yards on the night before Jason Maas came in and completed three of four for 24.
The Esks totalled 253 yards of offence to B.C.’s 499. But 280 of that came in the second half with Jackson and newcomer Travis Tulay moving the ball.
Tulay combined with Emmanuel Arceneaux on a 32-yard TD pass with 4:19 to play in the fourth. But the Esks responded with a five-yard TD run by Arkee Whitlock, who also scampered 20 yards the play previous, after an Xzavie Richardson interception off a Shaun Richardson deflection.
Whitlock finished with 68 yards on eight carries. Interestingly enough, the Esks left fellow American running back Ciatrick Fasson at home, which may or may not mean a thing.
Buck Pierce went 16 of 24 for 170 yards for the Lions, but with two picks in the opening half in which they scored just the two points.
The Lions’ offence finally got on the scoreboard with a two-yard pass from Jarious Jackson to Martell Mallet with 3:32 left in the third. McCallum added a 36-yard field goal at 4:34 of the fourth.
EXTRA POINTS: Tristan Jackson had 181 return yards in the opening half. ... The Esks did not bring injured players Mathieu Bertrand, Justin Cooper, Dante Luciani, Jim Davis, John Comiskey, Garrick Jones, Lenny Williams and Bradley Robinson on the trip.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
This is going to be a pretty good year for the Edmonton Eskimos. SWIVEL HIPS will go out on a limb right here and now and predict a 12-6 regular season for the Eskimos this year and a Grey Cup win in November in Calgary.
Rick Hansen Seeks Out ‘Difference Makers’
25/06/2009 05:29
TORONTO - Rick Hansen has made a difference in the lives of millions of Canadians. Now, Hansen will share with fans across the country the compelling and heroic stories of those who have made a difference in the lives of Canadian Olympic and Paralympic athletes.
Canada's Olympic Broadcast Media Consortium has partnered with the Rick Hansen Foundation for the Consortium's extensive coverage of the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games.
Hansen, famed Canadian athlete, activist and social innovator, will host a 17-part series entitled The Difference Makers, airing daily on television, radio and online during the Olympic Games. The Difference Makers pays tribute to the extraordinary coaches, teachers, parents, siblings and even rivals who have helped Canada's Olympians and Paralympians overcome their greatest personal and athletic challenges. Hansen will host the English version of The Difference Makers, while two-time Olympic silver medallist Alexandre Despatie will host the French version, entitled Faire la différence.
Hansen, a native of Williams Lake, BC, is the President and CEO of the Rick Hansen Foundation, which creates accessible and inclusive communities for people with spinal cord injury and supports research and fundraising initiatives to find a cure. In 1973 at the age of 15, Hansen incurred a spinal cord injury in a car crash and was paralyzed from the waist down. In 1985, Hansen set out on a two-year journey that would make history with the ‘Man In Motion World Tour', pushing his wheelchair through 34 countries to raise awareness of the potential of people with disabilities and funds for spinal cord injury. On March 21, 2010, Hansen and his team will celebrate the 25th Anniversary of this incredible achievement.
"Rick Hansen has proven that anything is possible. With drive, determination and the help of supporters and mentors along the way, Hansen conquered the greatest of odds and has been an inspiration to millions. He has made a monumental difference in the world of sport and beyond," said Keith Pelley, President, Canada's Olympic Broadcast Media Consortium. "Rick Hansen makes us proud to be Canadian."
The first of the 17 features will air during the Consortium's pre-show prior to the Opening Ceremony and will focus on the ‘difference maker' in Hansen's life - his coach, the late Stan Stronge. Hansen will join Olympic Prime Time host Brian Williams on-set to launch the series and profile the man who got Hansen out of a hospital bed 36 years ago and encouraged him to make a difference in the lives of others.
"I am thrilled to be hosting The Difference Makers, helping to share the incredible stories of people who have made a difference in the lives of Canadian Olympic and Paralympic athletes," said Hansen. "As Canadians unite during the 2010 Games, I am proud to help acknowledge and thank those people who have encouraged our athletes along the way; who have contributed to their journeys and helped them achieve their dreams."
On March 21, the last day of the Paralympic Games, the Consortium will air in English and French a one-hour tribute to Hansen, celebrating exactly 25 years to the day that Hansen left Vancouver to begin his ‘Man In Motion World Tour'.
In addition to his role as host of The Difference Makers, Hansen will also appear during the Consortium's unprecedented 50 hours of coverage of the Vancouver 2010 Paralympic Winter Games from March 12 to 21, 2010.
Leading up-to and during the 2010 Winter Games, CTVOlympics.ca and RDSolympiques.ca will host links to the Rick Hansen Foundation in honour of the 25th anniversary of the ‘Man In Motion World Tour'. Users will be able to donate online, with all proceeds going directly to the Foundation.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
It will be really interesting to see who Hansen picks to be on the show. Who are the 'difference makers?'
Ruff, Hitchcock, Lemaire To Assist Babcock
25/06/2009 05:29
Lindy Ruff, Ken Hitchcock and Jacques Lemaire will be assistant coaches to Mike Babcock on Canada's 2010 men's Olympic hockey team, sources tell CTVOlympics.ca.
The team's executive director, Steve Yzerman, is expected to officially introduce all four coaches in a news conference Thursday morning in Montreal, including Red Wings coach Mike Babcock as head coach.
Hitchcock, coach of the Columbus Blue Jackets, was an associate coach for Team Canada in 2002, when it won gold in Salt Lake City, and in 2006 in Turin, Italy, when Canada finished seventh. Last summer, he coached Canada to a silver medal in the IIHF World Hockey Championship in Halifax. He won a Stanley Cup with the Dallas Stars in 1999.
Ruff, coach of the Buffalo Sabres, recently coached Team Canada to a silver medal at the World Championship in Switzerland. It was the first ever national team assignment for the longest-tenured coach in the NHL. He won the Jack Adams Award in 2005 as the NHL's top coach of the year.
This will be the first Olympic experience for Lemaire, former Minnesota Wild coach, who won eight Stanley Cups as a player with the Montreal Canadiens and one with the 1995 New Jersey Devils. He is a two-time Jack Adams award winner.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
This is an excellent coaching staff, folks.
Chris Chelios Wants To Play In NHL This Year
25/06/2009 05:29
DETROIT -- He won't be a Detroit Red Wing, but Chris Chelios still wants to play.
The 47-year-old defenceman said Wednesday he has no hard feelings about Detroit's decision not to sign him for next season. In fact, he says his 10 years as a Red Wing couldn't have turned out better.
"Absolutely no regrets, " he said. "I had the best 10 years in Detroit."
He was limited to 28 games during the 2008-09 regular season because of a broken leg suffered during an exhibition game. He played in six games during the playoffs, which Detroit lost to the Pittsburgh Penguins in Game 7 of the Stanley Cup final.
Chelios has played 25 NHL seasons, winning three Stanley Cups and three Norris Trophies as the league's top defenceman. He said he had one last chat with Red Wings' owner Mike Ilitch at the Detroit Tigers' game Tuesday night, and is ready to move elsewhere. He and his agent will start contacting teams July 1, when he officially becomes a free agent.
"I just want to see if I can get the opportunity with another team and if I can contribute," he said, adding that he would prefer to play with a team in the Eastern Conference because travel would be easier than in the far-flung Western Conference.
But Chelios also said if things aren't going well and he's not playing a month or two into next season, he would retire. And if he can't catch on with a team, Chelios said he expects to do more with the 2010 U.S. Olympic Team. General manager Brian Burke has said that Chelios will have a non-playing role.
Chelios, who started his NHL career in Montreal, won two Stanley Cups with the Red Wings after being acquired from the Chicago Blackhawks during the 1998-1999 season. As a Blackhawk, Chelios was been one of the players Detroit fans hated the most. But he is now one of the city's most beloved athletes.
"Who would have thought, with what I did for Chicago to the city of Detroit, that I would be able to make this kind of relationship?" Chelios asked.
Whatever happens next year, his family won't move from the Detroit area, where Chelios owns bars. He has two daughters still in high school. His son Dean will be attending and playing hockey at Michigan State next season and his son Jake will play with the Chicago Steel of the Major Junior United State Hockey League in 2009-10.
Chelios is the second-oldest to ever play in the NHL. Only Gordie Howe, who played at 52, was older. But Chelios says Mr. Hockey won't have to worry about losing that distinction to him.
"I'll be satisfied to be the oldest American," he said.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
For what he's going to cost for the upcoming season, maybe the Oilers should sign him up?
Rachel Alexandra To Skip Breeders’ Cup
25/06/2009 05:29
NEW YORK -- The co-owner of Preakness winner Rachel Alexandra says the star filly will not run in the Breeders' Cup later this year.
Jess Jackson said Wednesday that he isn't willing to run the three-year-old filly on the synthetic surface at Santa Anita in November after a fourth-place finish by his two-time Horse of the Year Curlin in last year's Breeders' Cup Classic, also at Santa Anita.
Rachel Alexandra returns to the track for the first time since her Preakness win, when she runs in Saturday's Mother Goose at Belmont Park.
Jackson is uncertain what the rest of the year holds for his filly, but he did not rule out races against the boys.
He mentioned the Delaware Handicap, the Haskell Invitational and the Travers as possibilities.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
I think Rachel Alexandra has skipped more races than she’s actually run in.
Former Player Kills Iowa High School Football Coach
25/06/2009 05:28
PARKERSBURG, Iowa -- A high school coach who helped launch several professional football careers was gunned down in front of students Wednesday by a former player who was to have been taken to a psychiatric ward days earlier, authorities said.
Mark Becker, who was to have gone to the hospital psychiatric ward after allegedly leading police on a high-speed chase Saturday, unloaded several rounds into Aplington-Parkersburg High School football coach Ed Thomas and was arrested in the driveway of his parents' home soon afterward, said Kevin Winker, assistant director of the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation.
Winker said he couldn't discuss what Becker's motive might have been or what he might have been doing in the days leading up to the shooting.
"Motive is one of those things we're looking into," Winker said.
School was not in session and Becker did not threaten any of the students who were in the weight room at the time participating in an off-season workout, he said. Authorities did not release details about the gun that was used.
Thomas, 58, died at a Waterloo hospital. His shooting stunned the rural community of 1,800 residents 130 kilometres northeast of Des Moines, and it reverberated through NFL circles, where he was remembered as much for his faith as his winning record.
"Coach Thomas was very special to me and many other young men from the Aplington-Parkersburg communities," said Green Bay Packers linebacker Aaron Kampman. "His legacy for many will be associated with his tremendous success as a football coach. However, I believe his greatest legacy comes not in how many football games he won or lost but in the fact that he was a committed follower of Jesus Christ."
One of Thomas' sons said he was most proud of his involvement in his church, where he served as an elder. Aaron Thomas thanked the community for its support during an afternoon news conference.
"Obviously, with the shocking events of today, nothing can prepare you for what our family and the community is going through," Aaron Thomas said.
He also asked people to keep Becker's family in their thoughts.
"We ask that people pray for them as well, as they are also going through a lot," he said.
Named the NFL's 2005 high school coach of the year, Ed Thomas amassed a 292-84 record and two state titles in 37 seasons as a head coach -- 34 of them at Aplington-Parkersburg. He coached several players who went on to the NFL, including Kampman, Jacksonville Jaguars centre Brad Meester, Detroit Lions defensive end Jared DeVries, and Denver Broncos centre Casey Wiegmann.
Meester said he revered Thomas almost as a father figure, and that his high school coach got the most out of each of his players.
"It's just the stuff that he taught every one of us, stuff that I'll never forget," Meester said in a statement. "The value of hard work, pride in what you do and just caring about the guy beside you and that's what he did. He cared for each and every one of us that went through that program."
Becker, 24, is charged with first-degree murder and was being held in Butler County jail. The sheriff's office said Becker did not have a lawyer and a court appearance hadn't been scheduled. Phone messages seeking comment from family members were not immediately returned.
Cedar Falls Police Chief Jeff Olson said Wednesday that Butler County deputies had arrested Becker on Saturday after a chase through two counties. Deputies agreed to take him to a hospital psychiatric ward and request that Cedar Falls police be notified when he could be released. Cedar Falls police didn't hear anything more.
"I don't know what happened," Olson said. "I don't know why we didn't hear back."
More from TSN.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
It’s really unfortunate that these types of head cases are wandering around on the loose, folks.
Court Finds NHL Underfunding Pension Plans
25/06/2009 05:28
TORONTO -- An Ontario court has found that the National Hockey League has been underfunding its players' pension plans by millions of dollars, shortchanging widows over a number of decades.
The decision by Ontario Superior Court means the league will have to top up its pension fund by as much as $30 million and may have to make retroactive payments to the widows of deceased players.
The suit, brought forward last year by the NHL Players' Association, charged that errors in the calculation of pensions for players who died before 1986 meant their widows received as little as 10 per cent of the funds entitled to them.
NHLPA executive director Paul Kelly said the union was happy about the decision but hasn't had enough time to completely digest it.
NHL commissioner Gary Bettman will have to take the latest ruling to franchise owners, possibly as early as today's board of governors meeting in Montreal. Clubs will have to provide the money to top up the pension fund.
The NHL will have the opportunity to appeal the decision.
This is the second major pension battle the NHL has lost. In a 1993 decision, an Ontario court found the league had appropriated surplus cash that should have remained in the pension fund. The league had to restore $50 million to the fund.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
Oh, what a tangled web we weave . . .
Bruins To Host Flyers At Fenway In Winter Classic
25/06/2009 05:28
Trenton, NJ (Sports Network) - The NHL's third Winter Classic will be played between the Philadelphia Flyers and Boston Bruins at Fenway Park on January 1, 2010.
It is being reported by the Trentonian that the league was trying to push for a Washington/Boston matchup at Fenway in order to feature two-time Hart Trophy winner Alex Ovechkin. However, NBC, who will broadcast the game, wanted the Flyers so as to draw a better television audience.
Boston finished this past season as the top seed in the Eastern Conference and had a 22-point improvement over the previous season. The team won four awards including the Vezina, Jack Adams and Norris trophies, but were bounced in the second round of the playoffs by the Carolina Hurricanes.
Meanwhile, Philadelphia went 44-27-11 in the regular season and finished fifth overall in the Eastern Conference, but were knocked out of the playoffs in the first round by the Pittsburgh Penguins, who went on to win the Stanley Cup.
Last season's Winter Classic featured the Detroit Red Wings and Chicago Blackhawks at Chicago's Wrigley Field. In the game, Jiri Hudler scored twice and added an assist as the Red Wings took a 6-4 win over the Blackhawks.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
Zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz . . .
New Recycle Yard Hours Noted By Reader
24/06/2009 01:07
Don,
Readers might be surprised to find out that the former 24-hour-a-day un-manned recycle yard in Campbell Park soon will sport sharply reduced hours.
Just what saving will there be in having someone attend every day and pull the locking gates across the two entrances?
Reads like more cost and less service, not savings.
Tell me Mr. City Manager, how this streamlines service delivery and reduces my tax cost?
Bixman
St. Albert
SINC SAYS:
Relax Bixman, it’s just one more plot by Robbing Hood And His Merry Band Of Men to aggrevate taxpayers. Besides, I'm told no one but the mayor gets started at city hall until 10:00 a.m. weekdays, so why should taxpayers be expected to want services any earlier? Somewhere along the line though, it will raise taxes. Trust me on this.
The Photography Of Al Popil . . .
24/06/2009 01:07
Hi
Don,
I am going to answer one of life's little mysteries.
What exactly is inside the spittle you see on plants?
Kind of looks like a hippo, this variety of spittlebug.
Apparently there are over 20,000 varieties of this insect. This one was on my fireweed yesterday.
Al Popil
St. Albert
SINC SAYS:
Wow Al, talk about getting in there close. Thanks for sharing.
I am going to answer one of life's little mysteries.
What exactly is inside the spittle you see on plants?
Kind of looks like a hippo, this variety of spittlebug.
Apparently there are over 20,000 varieties of this insect. This one was on my fireweed yesterday.
Al Popil
St. Albert
SINC SAYS:
Wow Al, talk about getting in there close. Thanks for sharing.
RE: Jehovah's Witnesses: 'End Is Near'
24/06/2009 01:07
Hi Don,
A couple of weeks ago, I had one at my door with a brochure and a message about a meeting somewhere... I dunno because I really didn't pay attention. My bad!
She didn't get to say a lot because as I often do when I answer the front door I have my little Min Pin, Fidget under one arm so he doesn't run out the door and he can make one heck of a lot of noise. I put him away if the situation warrants it...
Anyway the kind lady just dropped off the brochure saying all the information was there, gave me the flyers in my mailbox, for which I thanked her and we bid each other farewell.
I didn't have the heart to tell her that doomsday was not scheduled until Dec. 21, 2012. The Maya said so!
Regards,
Diane from Calgary
SINC SAYS:
Diane is another of our advertisers. Visit her web site here.
Roses From Our Readers . . .
24/06/2009 01:07
A Tale Of Two Brooms . . .
24/06/2009 01:07
Two brooms were
hanging in the closet and after a while they
got to know each other so well, they decided to
get married.
One broom was, of course, the bride broom, the other the groom broom.
The bride broom looked very beautiful in her white dress.
The groom broom was handsome and suave in his tuxedo.
The wedding was lovely.
After the wedding, at the wedding dinner, the bride-broom leaned over and said to the groom-broom, 'I think I am going to have a little broom!'
'IMPOSSIBLE!' said the groom broom.
'WE HAVEN'T EVEN SWEPT TOGETHER!'
SINC SAYS:
Sounds to me like she's been sweeping around!
FBI: John Barnes Is Not Boy Who Was Kidnapped
24/06/2009 01:07
John Robert Barnes is
not the toddler Steven Damman who went missing
in 1955, the FBI said
Thursday.The DNA didn't match, and neither did the birth certificate.
In the end, the incredible claim by a Michigan man that he might be the toddler who disappeared 54 years ago from outside an East Meadow store was just that - incredible.
DNA tests conducted on John Robert Barnes, of Kalkaska, Mich., found he could not be Steven Craig Damman, who disappeared on Oct. 31, 1955, after his mother said she left him in front of a Food Fair supermarket while she shopped.
In addition, a certified birth certificate obtained by Newsday Thursday through Barnes' father shows John Barnes was born on Aug. 18, 1955, in Pensacola, Fla. That means he was less than 3 months old at the time of the disappearance. Damman was nearly 3 years old when he vanished and sparked one of the largest missing-child hunts in Long Island history. The DNA tests by the FBI specifically concluded there is no genetic relationship between Barnes and the mother of the real Steven Damman, officials said.
See all the details here.
SINC SAYS:
Methinks a scam has been averted, non?
Illiterate Spanish Thief Sentenced To School Time
24/06/2009 01:07
Madrid, April 24
(DPA) A Spanish judge has ordered an illiterate
young thief to learn to read and write as
punishment for his crimes, Spanish media
reported
Friday.The 17-year-old, who lived in a village in the southern province of Granada, was convicted of stealing a dog, but returned it on request.
It was discovered during the trial that he was illiterate, despite having attended school until age 11.
“These boys are cannon fodder, vulnerable” and exposed to bad influences, said judge Emilio Calatayud, who ordered the thief to take a six-month literacy course.
Spain has a literacy rate of about 98 percent.
Judge Calatayud is known for his original sentences. Youngsters who burned garbage containers were ordered to work as firefighters on week-ends, and a young man who drove his motorcycle in a state of drunkenness had to visit people who had become paralysed in traffic accidents.
SINC SAYS:
Ah yes, good old common sense, albeit in short supply in our judiciary.
Idea: The Outlet Wall
24/06/2009 01:06
Instead of hiding
your outlets behind furniture and worrying
about the mess of wires tangled behind your
entertainment center, consider making an entire
wall that’s nothing but
outlets. Then you can artfully plug in your appliances wherever the cords look pleasing to you.
Imagine no more crowded outlets or multi-plug adapters.
Of course you don’t have to actually wire all the outlets on the whole wall for electricity, but you’d better come up with a good way to remember which ones are live.
SINC SAYS:
I like it. Would look good in my office too.
Watching Esks’ Old Defence Hard For Coach Hall
24/06/2009 01:06
New head coach intends to create strength on both sides of ball
When Richie Hall took over as head coach of the Edmonton Eskimos during the winter, the architect of the Saskatchewan defence that carried the Roughriders to the 2007 Grey Cup probably wasn't very pleased with what he saw of Edmonton's defence, both in terms of personnel and last year's statistics.
While the Eskimos offence was among the most effective in the Canadian Football League last season, the team's defence was at the other end of the scale. It gave up more yards that any team in the West Division and ranked sixth among the CFL's eight teams against the rush and in terms of touchdowns and points surrendered.
So it's no real surprise that when the Eskimos kick off this year's regular season, half of the defensive positions could be filled by newcomers. That made for an interesting training camp, with the newcomers trying to fit in, everyone learning new schemes and the competition for jobs fierce.
The result has got some of the veterans excited.
"I like the schemes we've got, we're moving, we're using all our athletic abilities, all our talent," said defensive tackle Dario Romero. "He has guys flying around making plays."
Jim Davis, the other starting tackle who has missed most of camp with an injury, said he's most excited about "the talent that's come in.
"Actually, the whole team has a new attitude, a new type of energy. It'll be exciting for me to finally get on the field and match the tone those guys have already set for this year."
The defence, which will get a real test in its second and final pre-season game tonight in Vancouver against the aggressive B. C. Lions is, in the words of
Eskimos middle linebacker Maurice Lloyd, decent right now.
"We're not great, but we're decent. By July 2, we want to be great."
Hall is encouraged by what he's seen through training camp, but it's the consistency on the field during the regular season that he's really looking for.
"I like what we have, but it's being consistent at what you do," he said. "At times, we haven't been as consistent as we can be. I think the more the guys play together, the more they become comfortable with what we're trying to do, the better we'll get.
"A lot of times, it just comes down to being sound fundamentally, taking care of things, taking care of gaps, and most importantly, making tackles when you have the chance to make a tackle.
More from the Edmonton Journal.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
As I’ve said before in this space folks, I’m really excited about this Edmonton Eskimo defence this year.
Couples, 50, Keeps On Swinging On Big Tour
24/06/2009 01:06
Nicknamed ‘Boom Boom’ because of his length off the tee
Fred Couples turns 50 this year and while he still has the silkiest swing in the game and is playing his best golf in years, he isn't chomping at the bit to join the old guys on the PGA Champions Tour.
"I'm not really sure what I'm going to do," said Couples, who will become eligible for the Champions Tour on Oct. 3, three days before he captains the U.S. team in the Presidents Cup at Harding Park in San Francisco.
"I know a lot of guys on the senior tour. But I like the competition (on the PGA Tour) even though I'm not nearly as good as I was five or 10 years ago, but I can still play," he said. "I would miss the regular tour. I could never come back to it when I'm 52, 53 or whatever. The senior tour would be there another year from now, so in my heart I think I'm going to play one more year on the PGA Tour."
The 1992 Masters champion is back in Quebec this week for the 17th edition of the Telus World Skins Game at La Tempête Golf Club across the St. Lawrence River from the historic provincial capital.
The two-day event got under way yesterday with a revised format with Couples joined by reigning two-time British Open champion Padraig Harrington, 2005 U.S. Open winner Michael Campbell, PGA Tour veteran Chris DiMarco and Quebec PGA Tour 2008 champion and player of the year Rémi Bouchard.
Harrington, Campbell, DiMarco and Bouchard stood in for an original lineup that, along with Couples, included Mike Weir, Geoff Ogilvy, Ian Poulter and Sergio Garcia. The four had to complete some unfinished business yesterday playing the final round of the rain-delayed 109th U.S. Open at Bethpage State Park's Black Course in Farmingdale, N.Y.
After an early morning pro-am, Harrington won a nine-hole exhibition in the afternoon, finishing with a 3-under-par 33. Bouchard overcame a nervous start to birdie the last two holes to finish second at 2-under, while Couples, Campbell and DiMarco were 1-under, 1-over and 2-over, respectively.
Weir and Garcia, who last week was named to replace an injured Trevor Immelman for the event here, both tied for 10th at 282 at Bethpage, six shots behind winner Lucas Glover, while Poulter and Ogilvy tied for 18th and 47th. All four players arrived last night.
In what will be a first, though, all 18 holes of the competition will be played in one day starting at 12:30 p.m. The purse is $360,000, but all birdies and eagles, worth $2,000 and $3,000, respectively, will benefit Opération Enfant Soleil and the purchase of new equipment for the Mère-enfant surgical unit at Centre hospitalier universitaire de Québec.
Couples's 15 wins on the PGA Tour include the 1996 Players Championship and his last victory at the 2003 Shell Houston Open. And he's no stranger to fan-friendly skins format on either side of the U.S.-Canada border.
Nicknamed Boom Boom because of his effortless length off the tee during the prime of his career, he also answers to Mr. Skins, having won the U.S. event five times and more than $3.6 million U.S. in 11 appearances. He's won at the Telus event a record five times for $1,110,000 in eight appearances.
He captured the inaugural event at Devil's Pulpit in 1993 and won two of the four previously held in Quebec; Richelieu Valley in 1994 and Summerlea in 1996.
He returned to the competition last year after a seven-year absence and the second year the format included a fifth participant.
Couples, who is 17th on the PGA Tour career money list with $20,949,575, is enjoying his best season since 2003. He's twice finished third and eighth once in 10 events he's played and his 70.88 scoring average is his best since '03, when it was 69.81.
His career has been affected by back problems, but they're not as apparent as before because he's learned how to deal with it.
More from the Edmonton Journal.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
No matter what Freddie Couples decides to do – play on the Champions Tour or the regular PGA Tour, or both, 'Boom Boom' will still be a huge fan favorite.
Yzerman, Hull Headline NHL Hockey HOF Inductees
24/06/2009 01:06
When three of the Top 10 goal scorers of all time and a two-time Norris Trophy winner are eligible for the Hockey Hall of Fame, it is not a tough call for the selection committee.
Forwards Steve Yzerman, Brett Hull, Luc Robitaille and defenceman Brian Leetch were announced on Tuesday as this year's inductees in the players category.
New Jersey Devils general manager Lou Lamoriello was elected in the Builder Category.
Representing all three forward positions, Yzerman, Hull and Robitaille accounted for an eye-popping 2,101 goals over the course of their careers and won a Stanley Cup together with the Detroit Red Wings in 2002. And Leetch helped the New York Rangers end their 54-year Stanley Cup drought in 1994.
At centre, Yzerman made an immediate impact when the Detroit Red Wings selected him fourth overall in the 1983 NHL Entry Draft. The former Peterborough Pete stepped into the lineup and scored 39 goals and added 48 points for 87 points in his rookie campaign.
"It is a tremendous honor to receive this news," Yzerman said. "I want to thank the Selection Committee for recognizing my contributions — I truly had chills down my spine when I got the news."
At the tender age of 21, Yzerman was named captain of the Red Wings in 1986-87. An oddity by today's standards, Yzerman spent his entire 22-year career with the Red Wings, scoring 692 goals to rank eighth on the all-time list.
A sad-sack organization when Yzerman arrived, the Red Wings have now become a model franchise since the Cranbrook, BC native arrived on the scene, missing the playoffs just twice in 22 years. During his tenure, the Red Wings won three Stanley Cups, with Yzerman winning the Conn Smythe Trophy as playoff MVP in 1998.
Currently, Yzerman is a vice president with the Red Wings as well as the executive director for Canada's men's Olympic hockey team - with his eyes set on winning gold at the 2010 Winter Games in Vancouver.
At right wing, Hull ranks third on the all-time list with 741 goals over his 19-year career. The son of Hall of Famer Bobby Hull, the Golden Brett was drafted in the sixth round and broke in with the Calgary Flames during the 1986 playoffs.
''It is hard to put into words what this means to me; especially since I'm joining my father in the Hockey Hall of Fame,'' Hull said. "Simply getting to the NHL was a challenge for me, and I would like to thank all of my supporters who made many sacrifices on my behalf."
But before he reached his goal-scoring potential, he was dealt to the St. Louis Blues in a trade deadline deal that helped the Flames win the Stanley Cup in 1989. With the Blues, Hull teamed up with Adam Oates to form a dynamic duo that enabled the sniper to score over 70 goals in three consecutive seasons, including a career-high of 86 markers in 1990-91. He would end his 10-year career in St. Louis with 527 goals for an average of over 50 goals per season.
In 1998, the Belleville, Ontario native moved on to the Dallas Stars and won a Stanley Cup when he scored the infamous 'toe in the crease' goal against the Buffalo Sabres. Over three seasons in Dallas, Hull averaged over 30 goals per campaign at the age of 34.
Hull continued to average over 30 goals a year in three seasons with the Red Wings, winning his second Stanley Cup in 2002. He finished his career with a brief stint in Phoenix. He is currently a member of the front office with the Stars.
At left wing, Robitaille is the highest scoring player at his position in league history, ranking 10th on the all-time list with 668 goals.
"My goal was always just to play in the NHL and I never dreamed of anything beyond that," Robitaille said. "To be honored in the same room as The Rocket, Guy Lafleur and Wayne Gretzky is a tremendous honor."
Despite a high scoring junior career with the Hull Olympiques, Robitaille was not drafted until the ninth round of the 1984 NHL Entry Draft by the Los Angeles Kings. But the native of Montreal would surprise many by winning the Calder Trophy as the league's best rookie in 1986-87, scoring 45 goals in 79 games.
'Lucky Luc' followed that up with seven straight seasons of 44 goals or more with a career-high of 63 markers in the 1992-93 campaign.
More from TSN.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
Congrats to Steve Yzerman, Brett Hull, Luc Robitaille, Brian Leetch and Lou Lamoriello – the NHL’s ‘Class of 2009.’
Expect Surprises As Cuts Shape Final Game Roster
24/06/2009 01:06
Five players released with more to come
The Edmonton Eskimos released five players Monday, including injured wide receiver Willie Thornton, as head coach Richie Hall and his staff begin paring the roster in advance of Thursday's deadline to be down to 46 players.
Besides Thornton, the CFL club also released non-import kicker Ryan Elaschuk, import defensive back Darrell Hunter, non-import running back Eric Lee and import wide receiver Sean Young.
"They did a good job in training camp, but when you compare them to the other players, we felt the other guys had been more consistent," Hall said of the cuts that leave the Eskimos with 69 players in training camp.
Hall said the decision to release Thornton was a tough one because the speedy receiver was injured in last Tuesday's first pre-season game and, because of a jaw injury, was unable to practise since then. Hall said the injury was frustrating for Thornton because it didn't affect his abilities as a receiver, but did prevent him from practising.
"To me, that's real frustrating," said Hall.
The first-year Eskimos head coach said he and his staff still face a lot of very difficult decisions on players because there have been a number of battles for positions, particularly among the receivers, running backs, linebackers and offensive tackles.
"On the O-line, especially on the edges, that's a real tough battle," he said as six players continue to fight for the two spots.
"The linebacker positions, when you look at our receiving corps, the young guys have performed very well and they continue to improve.
"Our camp has been very competitive and there's no easy decisions for us. Will people be surprised(by some of the upcoming cuts)? I think so, but you're always surprised if you're one of the odds guys out. You've prepared yourself to be here and, if you are not, that's a shock.
"The scary thing about it is the closer you get to the 25th, the reality of the business comes into effect. We've been together for a long time and people develop friendships, but the reality is we can only keep so many players. The players here can help our team, we just can't keep everybody."
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
I’d be shocked if there weren’t one or two surprises, folks. There always are.
Babcock To Be Named Canada’s Olympic Coach
24/06/2009 01:06
Mike Babcock will be sworn in as the coach of the 2010 Canadian Olympic men's hockey team in Montreal this week.
There has been speculation the 46-year-old Detroit Red Wings bench boss deserved to be chosen by Steve Yzerman, executive director of the Olympic team, because Babcock steered the Wings to their second Stanley Cup final in a row this season.
In 2002-03, his rookie season as an NHL head coach, Babcock led the Anaheim Ducks to the seventh game of the Stanley Cup final, which they lost to the New Jersey Devils.
Hockey Canada and everyone involved has been tight-lipped about the appointment, but a source confirmed last night that Yzerman will announce Babcock as the coach on Thursday in a press conference to take place a few blocks from Montreal's McGill University, where Babcock played defence.
Babcock has a career coaching record of 282-139-71 in the NHL and already has 58 postseason victories.
He has coached Detroit to four consecutive seasons of 50 or more victories, won a Stanley Cup, guided Canada to the 2004 world championship and the 1997 world junior title.
The only part of Yzerman's announcement that will be a surprise will be the assistant coaches.
Sources confirm Columbus Blue Jackets head coach Ken Hitchcock will be one of the assistant coaches.
The others are expected to come from a group that includes Claude Julien (Boston Bruins), Lindy Ruff (Buffalo Sabres), Barry Trotz (Nashville Predators) and Randy Carlyle (Ducks).
The Hockey Canada decision comes almost three months after Brian Burke, general manager of the U.S. Olympic team, named Ron Wilson to be the Americans' head coach. Wilson coaches the NHL's Toronto Maple Leafs.
Babcock was born in Manitouwadge, Ont., and grew up in Saskatoon.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
This is a great choice by Hockey Canada.
Obama To Throw Out First Pitch At All-Star Game
24/06/2009 01:06
WASHINGTON -- Barack Obama plans to throw out his first pitch as president when he visits St. Louis next month.
Obama will offer the ceremonial first pitch at the all-star Game on July 14. He'll also have a town hall-style meeting in Detroit that day.
The White House says Major League Baseball's focus on community service matches with Obama's service initiative this summer, known as United We Serve.
This would be Obama's first pitch as president. He skipped traditional opening day invites.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
President Obama is quite a baseball fan – albeit the Chicago White Sox.
Ogilvy Wins Telus Skins Game, Pockets $150,000
24/06/2009 01:06
LEVIS, Que. -- Australian Geoff Ogilvy hit the jackpot on the 14th hole en route to winning the Telus World Skins Game on Tuesday.
Ogilvy pocketed C$150,000 of the $360,000 purse, while American Fred Couples finished second with four skins for $65,000.
Mike Weir of Bright's Grove, Ont., and England's Ian Poulter each walked away with two skins for $50,000 each and Spain's Sergio Garcia had three skins for $45,000.
The 18-hole event was packed into one day because of the rain delays that forced the final round of the U.S. Open to be played Monday.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
Zzzzzzzzzzzzzzz . . .
Gretzky Waits As Future Of Coyotes Decided
24/06/2009 01:06
VANCOUVER -- Wayne Gretzky is hoping for NHL hockey in both Phoenix and Hamilton.
The Coyotes coach is on the sidelines watching Jim Balsillie and the NHL spar over the future of the Arizona franchise and hockey in Southern Ontario. It hasn't been easy.
"It's been tough for everyone," Gretzky said Tuesday at a Samsung 2010 Olympic sponsorship event. "It's been tough for fans of the Phoenix Coyotes, it's been tough for the organization, but on the other side of it, Hamilton is a great city and one day it will probably eventually get an NHL franchise, so it's a tough scenario for both sides. Right now obviously we just are all sitting back and waiting to see what that outcome is and, to this point in time, we really don't know, there is no definite answer.
"The best-case scenario would be eventually that both cities have an NHL team."
While Gretzky has kept a low profile during the bankruptcy process, his name has been raised because of a reported US$22.5 million owed him.
As for his future as coach and part-owner, Gretzky said he is not looking too far ahead.
"I haven't really talked to anybody, you know until something happens and something concrete, there is really no need to surmise or wonder what's going to happen. From my point of view, I just want what's best for the organization, what's best for the city of Phoenix and hopefully what's best for Hamilton one day."
Gretzky said he's not finding the wait stressful.
"At this point of time in the year, it's up to the management and the scouts to get ready for the draft and as coaches we just sit back and analyze and start getting ready for next season and right now it's in the hands of the commissioner and his office and the court system and we'll see what happens."
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
Wayne Gretzky doesn’t need to coach. I have long asked myself what he’s doing.
Photos From My Library . . .
23/06/2009 05:40
Well folks, don't say I didn't warn you, but when you
stop sending me your photos, you have to look at
mine.
Here's a shot taken in Zion National Park in southwestern Utah:
And here's a little friend I found at my feet when I looked down from taking that shot:
Here's a shot taken in Zion National Park in southwestern Utah:
And here's a little friend I found at my feet when I looked down from taking that shot:
Stay Boy, Stay
23/06/2009 05:32
I pulled into the
crowded parking lot at the local Shopping
Center and rolled down the car windows to make
sure my Labrador Retriever pup had fresh air.
She was stretched full-out on the back seat and I wanted to impress upon her that she must remain there.
I walked to the curb backward, pointing my finger at the car and saying emphatically, 'Now you stay. Do you hear me? Stay! Stay!'
The driver of a nearby car, a pretty blonde young lady, gave me a strange look and said,
'Why don't you just put it in park?
SINC
SAYS:
Thanks to reader
George Proulx for this
knee-slapper!
Socks The Cat Trapped 34 Days
23/06/2009 05:23
Survives
inside metal container by licking condensation
A cat has survived being trapped inside an industrial storage container for more than a month.
Socks, who went missing on May 13, kept himself alive by licking condensation from the sides of the 20ft container.
Charity Cats Protection has reunited the 11-month-old cat with his owners after an electrician found the emaciated moggy inside the metal unit.
A cat has survived being trapped inside an industrial storage container for more than a month.
Socks, who went missing on May 13, kept himself alive by licking condensation from the sides of the 20ft container.
Charity Cats Protection has reunited the 11-month-old cat with his owners after an electrician found the emaciated moggy inside the metal unit.
Lucky moggy: Socks, in the arms of owner Michelle
Maher, is on the road to recovery after being trapped
in a metal container for over a month
Although desperately thin - half his ideal bodyweight
- and dehydrated, the mischievous cat is expected to
make a full recovery from his ordeal.
The drama began when Socks went missing on May 13 and
owner Michelle Maher, of Arbroath, reported him
missing to Cats Protection.
Ms Maher put up posters and searched the streets
whilst Cats Protection volunteers kept a lookout for
the missing Socks.
Unbeknown to them, he had snuck into a metal
container - similar to shipping containers - which
was used by store equipment and supplies for
electrical company D Adam & Company.
He was discovered 34 days later on June 16 when
electrician Murray Ruxton went to carry out a
stock-check at the unit.
Ordeal: Ms Maher is amazed that Socks survived in
this container by licking condensation
'I was just going through some stock and I saw
something out the corner of my eye shuffling about,'
he said.
'When I realised it was a cat I knew straightaway he
must be in trouble as none of us had visited the unit
for at least four weeks.
'He was really friendly and came up to me but I
realised how thin he was and was very concerned so I
rang Cats Protection, and a volunteer came straight
out.
'I'm amazed by him and so thrilled he is doing well.
I am planning to go and see him and say hello
properly.
SINC SAYS:
It’s amazing how Ma Nature helps her won, isn’t it?
Homeowner Says Crews Demolished Wrong House
23/06/2009 05:19
CARROLL COUNTY, Ga.
-- This is a story that may leave you shaking
your head.A Sandy Springs man got a phone call Monday that his family home in Carroll County was gone. Torn down. Demolished.
“We had heirlooms in there…my mom’s dining room set…her hutch with her dishes in there,” said homeowner Al Byrd.
Byrd said he cannot believe his eyes.
The house his father built, brick by brick, with his own hands has been mysteriously demolished.
“You can’t imagine. It’s just incredulous that something like this can happen and no one contact the owner,” said Byrd.
Byrd grew up in the home with his nine brothers and sisters. It’s a three bedroom house on a little road bearing his family’s name.
“We were taught that you could do anything that you wanted to do as long as you were willing to work hard and pay the price,” said Byrd.
Byrd’s cousin shot video Monday of a bulldozer in the yard of the house with dumpsters loaded with rubble.
The demolition company said it had paperwork.
“I said, ‘Paperwork for what?’ and he said, ‘For the house, to demolish the house.’ I said, ‘I’m the owner of the house, I haven’t given anybody any authority to demolish this house,’” said Byrd.
Channel 2 Action News reporter Jovita Moore asked Byrd if the demolition company had an address.
“I said, ‘What address did you have?’ and he said, ‘They sent me some GPS coordinates.’ I said, ‘Don’t you have an address?’ (and) he said, ‘Yes, my GPS coordinates led me right to this address here and this house was described,’” said Byrd.
Byrd said he suspects the intended target was actually across the road.
Byrd said his house held decades of memories. While he was talking to Moore, the enormity of what is now gone appeared to set in. Byrd could hardly speak.
The man who cuts the grass told Byrd about a month ago that the power box was missing and there were holes punched into the walls. They both thought it was vandalism. Now, Byrd believes it was part of the preparation for the demolition.
The demolition was done by a Marietta company who told Byrd it was hired by a company out of Texas. Moore tried to contact the Texas company, but her calls have not been returned.
SINC SAYS:
Uh oh. Someone’s gonna pay for this boo-boo.
Jehovah's Witnesses: 'End Is Near'
23/06/2009 05:14
WEST PALM BEACH, FL
-- If you feel like the world has been
crumbling down around you lately, the Jehovah's
Witnesses say - you're right. It
is.In fact, beginning this weekend, they'll be holding a series of public lectures entitled "How to survive the end of the world".
"It's imminent. It's at hand," says local Jehovah's Witnesses spokesman Travis Telfair.
Local Witnesses will be holding 14 consecutive 'conventions', as they call them, at their convention center on Palm Beach Lakes Boulevard - formerly the West Palm Beach Auditorium.
They hold such gatherings each year, but this year's theme is, admittedly, far more alarming. Spiritually surviving an imminent apocalypse! When?
"No one knows the day or the hour," says Telfair, "but we know we're in the last days of this system of things."
Jehovah's Witnesses believe the beginning of the end started around 1914 with World War One.
Since then, there have been plenty of natural and man-made threats to contend with. But the bible, they say, offers specific events to "keep on the watch" for. An escalation in natural disasters, crime, war. Even diseases like Swine Flu.
"These are all things Jesus said would be increasing in intensity in the last days," says Mario Beltrami, also a Jehovah's Witness spokesman, "and we're seeing that. I think most people agree that these are probably the most critical times we've seen."
Sure, the prospect of a cataclysm may sound a bit - terrifying. But witnesses say it's not their intention to scare people. Rather, it's to provide believers with a revelations roadmap. A spiritual survival guide to emerge from Armageddon intact.
"They will be hearing things as far as how they can avoid Satan's snares. Because we know that the goal of Satan is to hamper people from surviving," says Telfair.
SINC SAYS:
I don’t mind anyone believeing what they will, but I draw the line when they knock on my door and try to cram it down my throat. ‘Course I’m always polite and invite them in for a beer when they come calling.
Black Clouds Turn Beijing Day Into Night
23/06/2009 05:12
Ferocious storm
strikes Chinese capital as seven killed by
lightning in
north-eastAt midday in Beijing yesterday the sky turned black as midnight, as one of the most spectacular storms in recent memory struck the Chinese capital.
Thunder clouds blocked the sun from 11am, forcing the authorities to turn on streetlamps, offices to blaze with fluorescent lights and cars to drive with their headlights on.
During the darkest period, around 11.20am, office cooler, classroom, Twitter and Facebook gossip turned apocalyptic with many half-jokingly prophesying the end of the world and new weather weapons, while others wondered publicly about a secret solar eclipse or the death of the sun.
The storm passed within an hour with little apparent damage. But for a small handful, the portents of doom came true. Local media reported seven people were fatally struck by lightning as the storms swept across north-east China.
Weather forecasters said it was extremely rare for such ferocious weather to hit the country at this time of year.
SINC SAYS:
Now I get it. Some of those JWs were in China when this happened.
When Cars Were Cars . . .
23/06/2009 05:06
Each one was a thing of beauty and a work of art.
1956 Chevrolet Bel Air Convertible:
1959 Buick 2-Door Convertible:
1966 Ford Galaxie Hardtop:
1956 Chevrolet Bel Air Convertible:
1959 Buick 2-Door Convertible:
1966 Ford Galaxie Hardtop:
Special Olympics Summer Games In St. Albert
23/06/2009 05:02
Provincial medals up for grabs in eight sports June 26 - 28
The stars will shine bright in St. Albert this weekend at the Special Olympics Alberta Summer Games.
As of last Thursday, 851 Special Olympians from across the province were registered in eight sports, including 27 males and 22 females from St. Albert.
"All the signs point to it really being a great event for everybody involved," said David Climenhaga, the organizing committee chair. "You should see some pretty exciting stuff."
The summer games will lead some Alberta athletes to the 2010 nationals in London, Ont., and maybe even as far as the 2011 international games in Greece.
The multi-sport event celebrates human dignity and perseverance. It promises to be a life-changing experience for the competitors and those who will watch them.
"It’s going to be pretty special," Climenhaga said.
Special Olympics Alberta is a non-profit charitable organization committed to enriching the lives of Albertans with an intellectual disability through sport. Athletes develop sport skills, social skills and self-esteem, which assist them in becoming actively involved in recreational, educational and employment opportunities in their communities.
Friday’s opening ceremonies at Servus Credit Union Place run from 6 to 8:30 p.m. and are open to the public. Shaw TV will also provide live coverage.
The sports schedule is as follows:
Athletics at Fowler Athletic Park: Saturday 8:30 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. and Sunday 8:30 a.m. to 2:15 p.m.
Aquatics at Fountain Park Recreation Centre: Saturday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Five-pin bowling at St. Albert Bowling Centre: Friday noon to 2:30 p.m., Saturday 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Sunday 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Ten-pin bowling at Gateway Lanes in Edmonton: Saturday 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday 8:30 a.m. to noon.
Powerlifting at Servus Place: Saturday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Rhythmic gymnastics at Servus Place: Saturday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Softball at the Paul Kane High School diamonds: Saturday 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Sunday 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Soccer at Riel Park: Saturday 8 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
More from the St. Albert Gazette.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
Congratulations and the best of luck to all of the competing athletes.
Glover Wins U.S. Open, Weir And Ames Tied For 10th
23/06/2009 05:01
FARMINGDALE, N.Y. -- In a final hour packed with emotion, Lucas Glover played a steady hand to win the U.S. Open.
So many amazing stories belonged to contenders all around him Monday at Bethpage Black, from Phil Mickelson's stirring bid to win for his beloved wife as she battles breast cancer, to David Duval coming out of nowhere and almost winning for the first time in eight years.
Glover kept his cap tugged low and played the kind of golf that wins a U.S. Open under any conditions.
He made only one birdie in the rain-delayed final round, and it could not have been timed any better. Glover holed a six-foot putt on the 16th hole to break one last tie for the lead, then held on with pars to close with a 3-over 73 for a two-shot victory.
"It was a test of patience, that's for sure," Glover said. "It was just heart today."
It was sheer heartache for Mickelson.
His wife, Amy, is due to have surgery for breast cancer next week. She left cards and text messages asking him to bring home the silver trophy from a U.S. Open that has taunted Lefty for a decade.
The New York gallery came to life when Lefty rolled in a 35-foot birdie putt on the 12th, and he followed with an approach to four feet on the par-5 13th for an eagle that suddenly gave him a share of the lead.
Right when it was in his grasp, though, Mickelson let it slip away again.
More from Canadian Press.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
I think I’ve said enough already about my feelings about his year’s U.S. Open for a while. That's enough of Bethpage Black and New York for a long, looooooooooooooooong time.
Eskimos Cut Five, More To Go
23/06/2009 05:01
EDMONTON — The Edmonton Eskimos released five players Monday, including injured wide receiver Willie Thornton, as head coach Richie Hall and his staff begin paring the roster in advance of Thursday’s deadline to be down to 46 players.
Besides Thornton, the CFL club also released non-import kicker Ryan Elaschuk, import defensive back Darrell Hunter, non-import running back Eric Lee and import wide receiver Sean Young.
Elaschuk recorded five converts and two field goals in Wednesday’s 45-12 pre-season win over Saskatchewan.
“They did a good job in training camp, but when you compare them to the other players, we felt the other guys had been more consistent,” Hall said of the cuts, which leave the Eskimos still with 69 players in camp.
Hall said the decision to release Thornton was a tough one because the speedy receiver was injured in last Tuesday’s first pre-season game and had been unable to practise since then. Hall said the injury was frustrating for Thornton because it didn’t affect his abilities as a receiver but did prevent him from practising.
“To me that’s real frustrating,” said Hall.
Thornton was impressive early in camp, but later tailed off behind the likes of newcomers Alan Turner, Efrem Hill and Jason Turner. Thornton had one catch for 23 yards in Wednesday’s game and was injured on the play when he took a solid hit from Riders defensive back Daniel Francis.
The first-year Eskimo head coach said he and his staff still face a lot of very difficult decisions on players because there have been a number of real battles for positions, particularly among the receivers, the linebackers and offensive ends.
The Eskimos play their second and final pre-season game Tuesday in Vancouver.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
There’s no real surprises here, folks.
The Kamau Peterson Project
23/06/2009 05:00
Edmonton Eskimos receiver Kamau Peterson is at the 50-yard line in his season-long Edmonton Journal experiment to see how much improvement he can make in his golf swing with lessons from APGA professional Cam Martens, the assistant head pro at the Windermere Golf and Country Club.
"I'm getting there," said Peterson. "I'm more consistent; I have better control. At least now my mis-hits are playable instead of lost balls."
After spending the first few weeks on getting Peterson into a better position at the top of his swing, Martens is now working on how Peterson brings the club down.
"Before he was using his right forearm and wrist and he was almost throwing the club over the top," said Martens.
"What we're trying to do is to keep the right hand as relaxed as possible and use his hips and core muscles to bring the club down.
"Get it on plane and square at the top and then bring it down with the big muscles."
One of the things that amazes Martens is how many balls Peterson will hit.
"He's so strong that he can stand here and hit golf balls for hours.
Just about anyone else would be fatigued."
Not Peterson.
"I love hitting golf balls. I'll hit a bucket of balls before a round before the guys I'm playing with have got to the putting green."
Peterson said he believes golf can't help but improve his focus.
"I get to stare at a mall that is stationary instead of one that is moving.
"I'm a pretty low-keyed guy.
During at game I'm probably at a seven. The rest of the time I'm at a four. But playing golf I'm down to a three as far as being relaxed."
Martens has been using several drills to ingrain what he wants to see.
What they are working on now is called the Impact Drill.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
If Peterson turns out to be even half as good a golfer as he has a slotback for the Edmonton Eskimos, he’ll really be doing something.
Ray Gets His Time To Shine In B.C.
23/06/2009 04:59
Veteran Esks QB takes over for final pre-season game
EDMONTON - Step aside, Jared Zabransky. Make room, Lester Ricard. It's Ricky Ray's time to play.
Edmonton Eskimos fans can expect to see, or at least hear, a lot from the No. 1 quarterback come their second Canadian Football League pre-season game on Tuesday, this time in Vancouver against the B. C. Lions.
Of course, the game is not broadcast on TV, so fans will have to rely upon Bryan Hall's play-by-play call as Ray prepares for the start of the regular season, which begins nine days later at Commonwealth Stadium against the Winnipeg Blue Bombers.
How much time does the six-year veteran need in his first appearance?
"I've gone through several pre-season experiences.
"My first year, I played a little bit. My second year, I played both(games).A couple of times I was hurt, so I didn't play very much at all.
"For me, I'm looking forward to getting out there and playing at least a half, and then it will be up to the coaches. Typically, usually a half feels good to me."
"Feel" is the operative word as No. 15 settles in behind centre and looks to find his rhythm and touch. Ray isn't known for overwhelming defences with his arm strength, but he can kill you with his pinpoint accuracy.
But it takes time to find that rhythm, especially when a QB doesn't play a single second of the first exhibition game--a 45-12 win over the Saskatchewan Roughriders on Wednesday.
"I'm not the most fundamentally-oriented quarterback or have the best mechanics. I have to overcome a few lack of abilities there," he said with a chuckle.
"I'm more of a touch guy. I don't have the strongest arm, but I try to make up for that with decision-making and accuracy.
"You have to try to play to the strengths of your game and not try and play out of what you have. Try and do what you do out there, and not do too much, I guess."
Ray has looked good in scrimmages, airing balls where Ray is known to drop them--right into the receivers' arms. His throwing touch has been bang on and he's bulked up during the off-season.
Now he finally gets his chance to play against a true opponent, 20 days after he first reported to quarterbacks and rookie camp on June 3.
"I'm ready to get back out there and get into game-like situations. Practice is practice, we're not getting hit back there," said Ray. "It will be nice to get in there where guys are coming after you and you have to make some decisions and take a few hits."
Backup QBs Zabransky, Ricard and Jason Maas didn't take many hits in the opening win, but Game 2 will be more about veterans, for both the Eskimos and Lions.
"Their starters are going to be playing a bit more. They're going to be doing more things on defence that we haven't seen. It will be more of a challenge than we saw in the first game," said Ray.
One interested observer will be Eskimos head coach Richie Hall.
"Whatever he feels comfortable with. I'd like to see him get at least a half, being that he didn't play the first game," said Hall. "If not, maybe a bit more than a half--come in and play a bit of the third quarter.
"Ricky's going to play and some of the veterans will get more time than they got last week as well."
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
As I have said many times before, folks, as long as the Eskimos have Ricky Ray at quarterback, they’ll always have a chance.
Reprieve For Scona Pool
23/06/2009 04:59
EDMONTON — The Scona pool won a possible reprieve from being closed next week when a council committee recommended Monday spending almost $500,000 to keep it open for another 18 months.
About 15 speakers urged councillors to preserve the pool for students, synchronized swimmers and families in the community after it was ordered shut down June 30 as part of last spring’s budget-cutting measures.
The 52-year-old facility next to Strathcona High School was targeted due to low attendance, the need for costly repairs and the city’s drive to save money as the recession reduces revenues, but councillors Don Iveson and Bryan Anderson pushed for more time to check other options.
The recommendations going to council July 8 would see the city spend $381,000 for a contractor to run the pool until the end of 2010 and a further $90,000 for a detailed assessment of the building’s condition.
High school swim team member Finola Hackett told the community services committee the pool gives her team and other swim and synchro clubs a convenient place to practise that will be lost if they have to move to another site.
“It offers an opportunity to develop fitness and leadership skills,” said Hackett, who achieved fame in 2006 by placing second in the Scripps National Spelling Bee in Washington, D.C.
“Closing Scona pool will have a negative and irreversible effect on the youth of the community.”
Public school trustee Don Fleming also asked the city to reconsider the move approved last spring as part of a wide range of budget cuts, although he said the board couldn’t contribute funding.
However, the city and the board could make a joint application to the province for help with an estimated $8.6 million required for repairs, he said.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
This would be the wise thing for Edmonton City Council to do, spend the money to make the upgrades to keep Scona Pool open – and not just for 18 months. Keep the pool open indefinitely.
Injuries Not Keeping Williams, Comiskey From Camp
23/06/2009 04:58
The issue of injured players not being able to prove their mettle on the field arose again at Eskimos training camp during the weekend.
"There's that philosophy, 'You can't make the club when you're sitting in the tub.' There's a lot of truth to that because the bottom line is you have to perform. You have to go out there and win a job and take a job," said Edmonton head coach Richie Hall.
"It's hard to provide a job for someone who hasn't been out there."
But that philosophy doesn't stand up when it comes to Lenny Williams.
Expected to play a major role on Hall's defence at dime linebacker, Williams has seen very limited playing time as he nurses what was dubbed early as a knee injury. The same goes for defensive back Bradley Robinson, although his injury is likely more serious than Williams'.
"I'm just being real cautious about it. It's nothing major," said Williams. "I should get out of here, get in a couple of days of work before the season starts and I'll be ready to go."
He did practise on Sunday, but he's still doubtful for Tuesday's exhibition game in B. C.
Not having Williams and Robinson around has definitely affected the defensive secondary.
"I think anytime you don't have a veteran out there it's disappointing, especially when it's beyond your control," said Hall. "It's disappointing in some ways, but it's encouraging in other ways. When you have adversity, you define the true meaning of a player. How well do you deal with it?
"He's dealt with it in a professional manner," Hall said of Williams. "He's (studying) the playbook. He's asking questions. He's still aware of what's going on. Even though he hasn't practised physically, he's always been there mentally and that's encouraging. That's what you want a team player to be." Williams is anxious to get back. "It's another year, different defence, different position. You expect good things from the defence as far as a lot more aggression, a lot of guys flying around to the ball so I'm looking forward to having fun this year," he said.
Centre of attention
Centre John Comiskey's injury could be cause for concern, but he's not letting on that way.
"I'm a million bucks," he said, when asked for an update and whether he would play Tuesday. Comiskey practised on Sunday as well.
"We'll find out on Tuesday."
Fuzzy days ahead
With all of the poplar fuzz floating around camp, it's amazing no health issues have popped up for the Eskimos.
"Not overly, surprisingly," Esks head athletic therapist T. D. Forss said when asked if the fuzz was creating any problems.
"I find we have more issues with seasonal allergies when they arrive up here," he said of American recruits, "which is surprising, because at times (the fuzz) is so heavy it looks like it's snowing.
"It will affect some of the guys, but hopefully, they are already aware of their allergies when they get here."
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
As I say, I just hate training camp injuries. Far too often, they set the tone for a team for the entire season.
One Hour Costs Tiger A Chance
23/06/2009 04:56
FARMINGDALE, N.Y. - It appears as if a bad one-hour span of golf is going to cost Tiger Woods the opportunity to defend his U.S. Open championships, the one from last year and the one from 2002, the last time the Open came to Bethpage Black.
Woods could not get his putter to cooperate with his attempt at a comeback yesterday in the third round. Although he shot a 2-under-par 68, which tied him for the second-best score of the day, he made up just 2 strokes on the leader, Ricky Barnes.
So Woods began his final 18 late yesterday at 1-over 211 - in a tie for 15th place - and trailing Barnes by 9 shots, needing nothing short of a miracle to gain his record-tying fourth Open title and his 15th career major championship.
"It's one of those [situations] where you have to play a great round of golf and get some help," Woods said after his third round. "Obviously it's not totally in my control. The only thing I can control is whether I can play a good round or not."
Woods went seven holes of the final round before play was called, standing at 1-under for the round and even par for the championship.
Woods will look back on the final four holes of his first round as his downfall. He played that stretch in 4 over - a double bogey, two bogeys, and a par - on Friday despite dry, benign conditions, for a round of 74. It's been uphill ever since.
"I finished off the first day very poorly," he said. "Given the conditions and the way we were playing, if I would have just cleaned that round up and finished at even par, it would have been a pretty darned good score.
"But that finish put me so far back. I had to try and make up shots the entire time, and as of right now, I've only made up 3."
Woods hit 12 greens in regulation in the third round but converted only three birdie chances.
More from the Philadelphia Inquirer.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
I’ve already made my feelings about this year’s U.S. Open known.
The Photography Of Al Popil . . .
22/06/2009 04:31
Hi
Don,
I was intrigued by this spider called the "Goldenrod spider". It was hiding in the stamen of a wild rose at Big Lake yesterday.
They ambush their prey. This one caught a hover fly, which mimics a bee.
Al Popil
St. Albert
SINC SAYS:
Thanks for the education Al. I had no idea they even existed. Nice shot too!
I was intrigued by this spider called the "Goldenrod spider". It was hiding in the stamen of a wild rose at Big Lake yesterday.
They ambush their prey. This one caught a hover fly, which mimics a bee.
Al Popil
St. Albert
SINC SAYS:
Thanks for the education Al. I had no idea they even existed. Nice shot too!
Taxpayers Association Meeting Goes Tomorrow Night
22/06/2009 04:25
AGENDAST. ALBERT TAXPAYERS ASSOCIATION
17 Perron Street, St. Albert (St. Albert Community League Hall)
7:00 pm
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
1. Welcome, agenda review and approval
1. Minutes review and approval
1. Treasurer’s Report
1. Update
2. Renewal memberships
1. Old Business
1. Strategy Review and Approval Download a copy here.
1. Designation City Hall
1. Bingo update
1. Election Vice President
1. New Business
1. Mayor's Vision/Our Vision (discussion)
1. Recycling (discussion)
1. Branding update
1. Adjournment
Photographs From Our Readers
22/06/2009 04:22
Every Tale Has A Lesson
22/06/2009 04:20
Hi Don,
Sadly the gal who passed this along to me neglected to give the original source. Still it had me laughing so maybe you can use it.
Bob
St. Albert
SINC SAYS:
Our readers just love humour Bob, so yep, we can use it. Thanks a bunch!
An old prospector shuffled into town leading an old tired mule.
The old man headed straight for the only saloon in town to quench his parched throat.
He walked up to the saloon and tied his old mule to the hitch rail.
As he stood there brushing some of the dust from his face and clothes, a young gunslinger stepped out of the saloon with a gun in one hand and a bottle of whiskey in the other.
The young gunslinger looked at the old man and laughed, saying, 'Hey old man, have you ever danced?'
The old man looked up at the gunslinger and said, 'No, I never danced, and I've never wanted too.'
A crowd had gathered quickly and the gunslinger grinned and said, 'Well, you old fool, you're gonna' dance now,' and started shooting at the old man's feet. The old prospector in order not to get a toe blown off or his boots perforated, was soon hopping around like a flea on a hot skillet and everybody was laughing fit to be tied.
When the last bullet had been fired, the young gunslinger, still laughing, holstered his gun and turned around to go back into the saloon.
The old man turned to his pack mule, pulled out a double barreled shot-gun, and cocked both hammers back. The loud, audible double clicks carried clearly through the desert air.
The crowd stopped laughing immediately. The young gunslinger heard the sounds, too, and he turned around very slowly.
The quiet was almost deafening.
The crowd watched as the young gunman stared at the old timer and the large gaping holes of those twin barrels. He found it hard to swallow.
The barrel of the shotgun never wavered in the old man's hands.
The old man said, 'Son, did you ever kiss a mule's ass?'
The young bully swallowed hard and said, 'No sir, but I've always wanted to.'
There are two lessons for us all here:
1. Don't waste ammunition.
2. Don't mess with old people
SINC SAYS:
Our readers just love humour Bob, so yep, we can use it. Thanks a bunch!
An old prospector shuffled into town leading an old tired mule.
The old man headed straight for the only saloon in town to quench his parched throat.
He walked up to the saloon and tied his old mule to the hitch rail.
As he stood there brushing some of the dust from his face and clothes, a young gunslinger stepped out of the saloon with a gun in one hand and a bottle of whiskey in the other.
The young gunslinger looked at the old man and laughed, saying, 'Hey old man, have you ever danced?'
The old man looked up at the gunslinger and said, 'No, I never danced, and I've never wanted too.'
A crowd had gathered quickly and the gunslinger grinned and said, 'Well, you old fool, you're gonna' dance now,' and started shooting at the old man's feet. The old prospector in order not to get a toe blown off or his boots perforated, was soon hopping around like a flea on a hot skillet and everybody was laughing fit to be tied.
When the last bullet had been fired, the young gunslinger, still laughing, holstered his gun and turned around to go back into the saloon.
The old man turned to his pack mule, pulled out a double barreled shot-gun, and cocked both hammers back. The loud, audible double clicks carried clearly through the desert air.
The crowd stopped laughing immediately. The young gunslinger heard the sounds, too, and he turned around very slowly.
The quiet was almost deafening.
The crowd watched as the young gunman stared at the old timer and the large gaping holes of those twin barrels. He found it hard to swallow.
The barrel of the shotgun never wavered in the old man's hands.
The old man said, 'Son, did you ever kiss a mule's ass?'
The young bully swallowed hard and said, 'No sir, but I've always wanted to.'
There are two lessons for us all here:
1. Don't waste ammunition.
2. Don't mess with old people
"ALL PUNS INTENDED"
22/06/2009 04:15
SINC SAYS:
Our thanks and a tip of the hat go to St. Albert’s Place reader Bixman for supplying us with this hilarious set of puns.
1. Two antennas met on a roof, fell in love and got married. The ceremony wasn't much, but the reception was excellent.
2. A jumper cable walks into a bar. The bartender says, "I'll serve you, but don't start anything."
3. Two peanuts walk into a bar, and one was a salted.
4. A dyslexic man walked into a bra.
5. A man walks into a bar with a slab of asphalt under his arm, and says: "A beer please, and one for the road."
6. Two cannibals are eating a clown. One says to the other: "Does this taste funny to you?"
7. "Doc, I can't stop singing The Green, Green Grass of Home." "That sounds like Tom Jones Syndrome." "Is it common?" "Well, It's Not Unusual."
8. Two cows are standing next to each other in a field. Daisy says to Dolly, "I was artificially inseminated this morning." "I don't believe you," says Dolly. "It's true; no bull!" exclaims Daisy.
9. An invisible man marries an invisible woman. The kids were nothing to look at either.
10. Deja Moo: The feeling that you've heard this bull before.
11. I went to buy some camouflage trousers the other day, but I couldn't find any.
12. A man woke up in a hospital after a serious accident. He shouted, "Doctor, doctor, I can't feel my legs!" The doctor replied, "I know, I amputated your arms!"
13. I went to a seafood disco last week ... And pulled a mussel.
14. What do you call a fish with no eyes? A fsh.
15. Two fish swim into a concrete wall. The one turns to the other and says, "Dam!"
16. Two Eskimos sitting in a kayak were chilly, so they lit a fire in the craft. Not surprisingly it sank, proving once again that you can't have your kayak and heat it too.
17. A group of chess enthusiasts checked into a hotel, and were standing in the lobby discussing their recent tournament victories. After about an hour, the manager came out of the office, and asked them to disperse. "But why," they asked, as they moved off. "Because," he said. "I can't stand chess-nuts boasting in an open foyer."
18. A woman has twins, and gives them up for adoption. One of them goes to a family in Egypt , and is named 'Ahmal.' The other goes to a family in Spain ; they name him 'Juan.' Years later, Juan sends a picture of himself to his birth mother. Upon receiving the picture, she tells her husband that she wishes she also had a picture of Ahmal. Her husband responds, "They're twins! If you've seen Juan, you've seen Ahmal."
19. Mahatma Gandhi, as you know, walked barefoot most of the time, which produced an impressive set of calluses on his feet. He also ate very little, which made him rather frail and with his odd diet, he suffered from bad breath. This made him ... A super-calloused fragile mystic hexed by halitosis.
20. A dwarf, who was a mystic, escaped from jail. The call went out that there was a small medium at large.
21. And finally, there was the person who sent twenty different puns to her friends, with the hope that at least ten of the puns would make them laugh. No pun in ten did.
Traditional Bike Seats 'A Health Risk'
21/06/2009 19:43
Your groin is not
designed to carry your weight, say experts
concerned by the shape of many traditional bike
seats.Major arteries which run through the pelvis can be significantly clamped when sitting on a "dome-shaped" bike seat, says US-based Dr Roger Minkow.
A network of nerves also runs from the base of the spine into the genitals, and Dr Minkow says squashing these causes a "numbness" which is familiar to many cyclists.
"Men cannot feel the constriction of the artery but they can feel the numbness of the nerve," Dr Minkow says.
"The better saddle is one where you sit on top of it instead of sinking into it, which compresses these arteries."
Dr Minkow is a seat designer for bike manufacturer Specialized, and he visited Sydney this week as part of an effort to raise awareness.
He says reduced blood flow could cause scar tissue to develop in these arteries which, over time, could lead to erection problems.
Dr Minkow says testing of traditional bike seats had shown some could reduce blood flow during a ride by 90 per cent or more - well over an accepted safe level of 50 per cent.
Most major bicycle manufacturers now offer seat versions with "cut-out" sections designed to reduce blood vessel constriction.
"If you have a dome shaped saddle and it doesn't have a cut-out then you'll be losing your blood flow," Dr Minkow says.
He says both men and women will benefit - and have a more enjoyable ride - if they have a properly fitted seat.
Dr Minkow is joined on the tour by fellow US-based cycling expert Dr Andy Pruitt.
"Our groin is not designed to bear weight," Dr Priutt says.
"A lot of people think crotch soreness is part of the sport - it really shouldn't be."
Dr Pruitt says cyclists should also make sure they regularly stand up in their pedals - about every five minutes during a ride - to ensure the blood kept circulating.
SINC SAYS:
No wonder you see cyclists weaving about in traffic. No blood flow to the brain.
Michigan Man Says He's Boy Who Vanished In 1955
21/06/2009 19:35
EAST MEADOW, N.Y.—
More than 50 years after a 2-year-old boy
disappeared from outside a Long Island bakery,
a Michigan man has come forward to claim that
he was the missing boy, authorities said
today.
The man approached Nassau County police and federal authorities in Michigan over the past few months and said he believes he is Steven Damman, Nassau County Police Lt. Kevin Smith said.
The case was referred to the FBI in Michigan and authorities are awaiting DNA results to determine if the man’s claim is true, Smith said. Authorities didn’t release the man’s identity.
Sandra Berchtold, a spokeswoman for the FBI in Detroit, declined to comment on Damman’s case today.
Jerry Damman, the father of Steven Damman, said “it’s very possible” that the man could be his son.
“To a certain extent this would probably close it,” said Damman, who lives on a farm near Newton, Iowa, about 30 miles east of Des Moines.
Steven Damman was 2 when his mother, whose husband worked on a military base, left him and his younger sister waiting outside a bakery while she went inside to shop in 1955, Smith said.
“Back in that time, it was probably not that uncommon to do something like that,” Smith said.
Damman’s mother left the bakery and found the stroller and both her children missing, Smith said. The stroller, with only her infant daughter inside, was found a short time later, Smith said.
Thousands of police and firefighters searched for Steven, but he was never found, Smith said. None of the investigators on the original case are still with the department, he said.
SINC SAYS:
One thing is for sure, the DNA test will confirm if this is true.
Barnes, Glover Lead As U.S. Open Suspended
21/06/2009 19:30
The final round of the U.S. Open has been suspended at Bethpage Black due to darkness. Play will resume Monday morning at 7:00 a.m. local time.
Catch the conclusion of the final round on TSN and TSN-HD, this morning at 7:00 a.m. local time.
Ricky Barnes and Lucas Glover are tied for the lead at 7-under. Barnes had a bogey on the opening hole of the final round to drop back into a tie with Glover.
After shooting 64-70 to open the tournament, Canada's Mike Weir took a step backward in the third round. The native of Bright's Grove, Ontario carded a 4-over 74 after making three consecutive bogeys on the front nine and five overall. He currently sits in 7th at 1-under.
Calgary's Stephen Ames is 1-over for the tournament and tied for 13th.
Amateur Nick Taylor of Abbotsford, BC had a tough act to follow. After shooting a superb 65 in his second round, Taylor could not recreate his magic and shot a 5-over 75 in round three. He is 5-over for the tournament and is tied for 34th.
Tiger Woods sits even par for the tournament and tied for 8th.
Crowd favorite Phil Mickelson birdied two of his last three holes to card a 2-under 68 for the third round. He is at 2-under for the tournament and tied for 3rd.
When it gets too dark to continue, play will be suspended until Monday morning. It is hoped all golfers will complete their rounds by midday on Monday. A potential 18-hole playoff would be contested on Monday afternoon.
There are no plans to play on Tuesday at this point.
More from TSN.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
The torrential rains in New York ruined the U.S. Open for me and many of the golfers this year, folks. Lucas Glover and Ricky Who are leading? Don’t remember the names.
Offence Lines Up Nicely
21/06/2009 19:29
Blocking solid on both pass and run in Eskimos' first test
The more than 500 yards of offence the Edmonton Eskimos accumulated on Wednesday night is a tribute to identifying young talent, but maybe more importantly, it was a statement that the offensive line so desperately wants to make this year.
Some fans may not have picked it up (most spectators don't watch the the O-line closely), but the head coach certainly did, as he watched his offence literally run wild.
"The people that go unnoticed are the offensive line. It doesn't matter what running back it was, what quarter it was, they made some pretty big holes," said Esks head coach Richie Hall, who watched his running game compile 228 yards and the air attack add another 306 yards.
"When you're able to run the football, it makes it very lethal. I know it's only the first game, but it was encouraging for us to dominate the line of scrimmage. That's something we really want to do and stress this year -- not just run the football, but effectively run the football."
The task was successfully completed in the 45-12 thumping of the Saskatchewan Roughriders. But another test will come Tuesday in Vancouver against the B.C. Lions, and the dynamics may change with centre John Comiskey nursing an injury.
"I think as a group, all in all, the first group, the second group -- everybody that played (Wednesday) night, we played well together," said offensive tackle Calvin Armstrong, who is quickly proving to be a leader on the front five.
"We played hard and it showed on the field. We protected the quarterbacks well and got a chance to run the ball and we took advantage of it.
"That's what we need to do. If we can run the ball like that, then we're going to have a chance to win a lot of football games."
Armstrong was part of the first unit that opened the game, not to mention several gaping holes. He was joined by left tackle Joe McGrath, left guard Kyle Koch, Comiskey and right guard Patrick Kabongo.
But everyone who dressed got their chance to perform, including University of Alberta product Gord Hinse, who stepped in for the second and third quarters.
"The second quarter was a little intense," admitted Hinse. "I think that hindered me a little. I was a little too excited, but I calmed down by the third quarter and played better.
"The O-line played well all game, both the first and second group, and the running backs, what a great group," added Hinse. "They see the holes well and can cut back well."
Getting the chance to try and take control of the line of scrimmage was thrilling in itself for the 22-year-old draft pick. But the chance to ram the ball down the Riders' throats along the ground made it that much more satisfying, said Hinse.
"I'm biased because I like the run. I like to go out and smash guys, that's the way I play. If we ran the ball every play, that would be OK with me," he smiled.
Considering he made the jump right from university to the Canadian Football League, Hinse did not look out of place and has benefited greatly from the likes of Armstrong, Comiskey and Kabongo.
"I think he's come along pretty nicely," Armstrong said of Hinse, the Esks' 11th overall selection from the 2009 draft. "He's a pretty young guy. To come from the U of A to this level of football is a good-sized jump. He's athletic and he's physical and tough, and he's adjusting to it."
More from the Edmonton Journal.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
Despite the loss of Dan Comiskey, the Eskimos should have a very solid offensive line this year.
Ray Looks Forward To Esks Second Exhibition Game
21/06/2009 19:28
EDMONTON — Step aside Jared Zabransky. Make room Lester Ricard. It’s Ricky Ray’s time to play.
Edmonton Eskimos fans can expect to see, or at least hear, a lot from the No. 1 quarterback come Tuesday in their second Canadian Football League pre-season game, this time in Vancouver against the B.C. Lions.
Of course, the game is not broadcast, so you’ll have to rely on Bryan Hall’s call come the opening half of play, and then some as Ray prepares for the start of the regular season, which starts nine days later at home against Winnipeg.
How much time does the six-year veteran need in his first appearance?
“I’ve gone through several scenarios over the years,” said Ray, of his previous pre-season experiences. “My first year I played a little bit. My second year I played both (games). A couple of times I was hurt so I didn’t play very much at all.
“For me, I’m looking forward to getting out there and playing at least a half and then it will be up to the coaches. Typically, usually a half feels good to me.”
Feel being the operative word as No. 15 settles in behind centre and looks to find his rhythm and touch. Ray isn’t known for overwhelming defences with his arm strength, but he can kill you with his pinpoint accuracy.
But it takes time to find that rhythm, especially when you don’t play a single second of the first exhibition game, a 45-12 win over Saskatchewan on Wednesday.
“I’m not the most fundamentally-oriented quarterback or have the best mechanics. I have to overcome a few lack of abilities there,” he chuckled. “I’m more of a touch guy. I don’t have the strongest arm, but I try to make up for that with decision making and accuracy.
“You have to try to play to the strengths of your game and not try and play out of what you have. Try and do what you do out there, and not do too much, I guess.”
Ray has looked good in scrimmages, airing balls in where Ray is known to drop them right in the receivers’ arms. His feel has been bang on and he’s bulked up during the off-season.
Now he finally gets his chance to play against a true opponent, 20 days after he first reported to quarterbacks and rookie camp on June 3.
“I’m ready to get back out there and get into game-like situations. Practice is practice, we’re not getting hit back there,” said Ray. “It will be nice to get in there where guys are coming after you and you have to make some decisions and take a few hits.”
Backup QBs Zabransky, Ricard and Jason Maas didn’t take many of them in that opening win. But Game 2 will be more about veterans, for both the Eskimos and Lions.
“Their starters are going to be playing a bit more. They’re going to be doing more things on defence that we haven’t seen. It will be more of a challenge than we saw in the first game,” insisted Ray.
One interested observer will be Esks head coach Richie Hall, who finally gets his No. 1 pivot into play.
“Whatever he feels comfortable with. I’d like to see him get at least a half, being that he didn’t play the first game,” said Hall. “If not, maybe a bit more than a half come in and play a bit of the third quarter.
“Ricky’s going to play and some of the veterans will get more time than they got last week as well.”
Esks on injury watch.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
As long as the Eskimos have Ricky Ray playing quarterback, they’ll always have a chance.
Royal Glenora Club To Get $1 Million For Reno
21/06/2009 19:27
Ottawa adds project to stimulus package
In the past when Canadian figure skating pair Anabelle Langlois and Cody Hay trained at the Royal Glenora Club, Langlois would question her partner's strength when he hoisted her up.
"What's wrong with you?" she'd ask. "Your arms are shaking."
But Hay's arms weren't the problem --it was his blades skipping across the ice that provided the jolt.
"It was like the roads in Quebec," Langlois said of the ice surface.
The Royal Glenora Club, a private facility, will now be able to execute remodelling plans thanks to a $1-million investment by the federal government announced Saturday as part of the Recreational Infrastructure Canada program.
The program will allocate $500 million to recreational facilities across the country over a two-year period.
But Edmonton-Strathcona NDP MP Linda Duncan questioned how much the general public can gain from the funding when it benefits a private facility.
"We should be spreading it across the city," she said, noting outdoor pools across Edmonton could be improved along with public recreation centres.
The cash injection is part of the government's economic action plan to combat the recession.
Edmonton-Centre Conservative MP Laurie Hawn said the funding for the Royal Glenora Club "will ensure that this 50-year-old facility can continue to thrive....
"The Royal Glenora Club is a vital multi-use recreation venue attracting and developing and nurturing top-ranked competitors, countless amateur sports enthusiasts and the public at large."
In addition to revamping the ice surface with environmentally-friendly technology, a year-round aquatic centre is also in the works. Other amenities around the club including locker-rooms and landscaping will also be fine-tuned.
"We're set to go, and we should have major construction happening here next week," said Scott Paterson, president of the club. "We hope to have the year-round aquatic facility and training facility completed by May 2010."
To be eligible for funding, applicants are to be non-profit, municipal or provincial entities or a First Nation government. The recreational infrastructure program was announced May 11. The final deadline for application was Friday.
Duncan wondered whether that time period allowed enough facilities to submit applications, especially smaller organizations that are not always aware of funding opportunities. "How about letting everyone in Edmonton know whose applications are in the hopper and how are they going to dole out the money," she said.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
I have to agree with Linda Duncan on this one, folks. Why should the Royal Glenora Club get $1 million in taxpayer dollars for a renovation? Wouldn’t that money be better spent on upgrading a number of public recreation facilities across the city, rather than upgrading one ‘elitist,’ private facility? As usual, folks, I guess it’s not what you know, it’s who you know in government that really matters.
Playing First Pro Game ‘Truly Amazing’ For Hinse
21/06/2009 19:26
The chance to charge out on to the lush Commonwealth Stadium turf for the first time ever was a thrill for both teacher and student.
"That's the first time I ever came out of the Eskimo helmet. That was quite the charge, I tell ya. Quite the charge," said rookie head coach Richie Hall, of leading his charges through the inflatable Green and Gold helmet during introductions before Wednesday night's CFL exhibition game.
It turned out to be a win, not only for Hall, but Edmonton product Gord Hinse, who has watched many a game in the facility.
"Just coming out through there, with all the fans in the stands. It was like nothing I had ever experienced before," said Hinse, a gleam still in his eyes days later. "Truly amazing." In fact, his entire experience thus far, has been like a dream.
"It's been good. A rewarding experience," the University of Alberta product stressed. "I've learned a lot and hopefully I can stay around.
"I just have to keep playing football and hopefully the coaches will keep me around." Simple for Simeon? Hinse's teammate and one of his best friends from the U of A, Simeon Rottier, is getting a kick out of his first pro opportunity as well.
"I think the biggest thing right now is I'm pushing the competition and that makes everybody better," Rottier, the first overall pick of the Tiger-Cats, told the Hamilton Spectator. "We'll have to see (how much I play) because the group of vets is really strong. I'll just keep learning Right now it's about trying to learn that playbook." Willie waits Esks receiver Willie Thornton remained out of practice on Saturday after taking that hellacious hit from Daniel Francis in the win over Saskatchewan on Wednesday.
"It's very, very disappointing watching teammates compete, you want to be out there competing also," said Thornton, who wore a long face through camp sessions on Saturday.
"I do remember the hit," he said of the crunch five minutes into the second quarter. "I saw it. It was a pretty good hit. There are 12 guys out here (on the Canadian field) and I had to learn it the hard way." McGrath returns Joe McGrath returned to his spot at left offensive tackle for most of Saturday's sessions. He had sat out on Friday, along with centre John Comiskey, who did remain on the sidelines for the second straight day.
Fellow O-lineman Gerald Davis also came out of the first session at Clarke with an ailment.
With Comiskey out, Aaron Fiacconi took most of the reps at centre with McGrath, Kyle Koch at left guard, Patrick Kabongo at right guard and Calvin Armstrong at right tackle.
The team is in St. Albert today for a 1-3 p.m. session at the Riel Recreation Park.
Turner turns it up Receiver Alan Turner continues to have a strong camp and has found a nice combination with backup quarterback Jason Maas.
"What happens is you get real comfortable with certain guys and you know what to expect from them," offered starter Ricky Ray, who will get most of the reps in Tuesday's game in Vancouver.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
I think Gord Hinse was a steal of a pick, going at #11 overall for the Esks in this year’s Canadian college draft.
Molson Family Buys Habs For $550 Million
21/06/2009 19:25
The Molson brothers -- Geoff, Andrew and Justin -- are proof that the early bird doesn't always get the worm.
The Molsons were the last group to enter the bidding for the Montreal Canadiens, but their efforts were rewarded Saturday when it was announced they reached an agreement in principle to buy a controlling interest in the team from George Gillett Jr.
The announcement ended speculation over Gillett's future in Montreal. On several occasions, he has denied that the Canadiens were for sale and said that he was merely reviewing his assets as part of an estate-planning exercise.
Gillett bought the team for $275 million in 2001, but his stake in the team and the Bell Centre is highly leveraged and he needs cash to pay down debt taken on when he and Texas billionaire Tom Hicks bought the Liverpool soccer team.
Terms were not announced, but it's believed the winning bid could be as high as $550 million Cdn.
Included in the package is 80.1 per cent of the NHL team and 100 per cent of the Bell Centre and Gillett Entertainment Group. The remaining 19.9 per cent is held by Molson Coors.
"There are still a lot of details that have to be hammered out," said Donald Beauchamp, the Canadiens vice-president of communications.
A news conference to introduce the new owners was on hold until all the details are finalized. That could take several months, and final approval of the deal by the NHL is unlikely before August.
Geoff Molson expressed interest in bidding for the team on May 24, but didn't confirm the brothers were actively bidding until June 10.
While as many as seven groups expressed interest in buying the team, the final bidding was between the Molsons and a group led by Quebecor Media's Pierre Karl Peladeau. That group also included singer Celine Dion's husband, Rene Angelil, and the financial backing of the Fonds de Solidarite, the $6-billion investment fund sponsored by the Quebec Federation of Labour.
The brothers are continuing a family tradition with the purchase. Senator Hartland Molson and his brother, Thomas, purchased the team from Senator Donat Raymond in 1957. Hartland and Thomas Molson sold the team to their cousins, David, Bill and Peter Molson, in 1964, and they owned the team until 1971.
Molson Breweries purchased the team from a company controlled by Peter and Edward Bronfman in 1978, and Eric Molson, the father of the new owners, was a driving force in the construction of Molson Centre that opened in 1996.
The brewery sold a controlling interest to Gillett in 2001. At the time, there were no Quebec bidders for the team. This time around, there were four, with Savard and Stephen Bronfman members of the other two. There were also reports of three bids from outside Quebec, but none of them progressed past the tire-kicking stage.
Neither party was available for comment, but Gillett and Geoff Molson both issued statements.
"Our family has been very proud to be associated with the Canadiens over the past eight years ... I am fully confident that the Molson brothers, who have been a great part of the heritage ... will ensure the preservation and development of this great sports institution," Gillett said.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
This is certainly great news for all Montreal Canadiens fans to have the Molsons once again owning the team.
Telus World Skins Adds Three Players For Exhibition
21/06/2009 19:23
QUEBEC - A rainy U.S. Open has prompted organizers of the Telus World Skins Game to bring in some reinforcements.
Michael Campbell, Padraig Harrington and Chris DiMarco have all been added to the event and will stage an exhibition match at La Tempete on Monday with Quebec-based professional Remi Bouchard.
Those three players all missed the cut at the U.S. Open, where rain has repeatedly halted play and might end up forcing a Monday finish.
If that happens, the original five-man skins match will be played over 18 holes on Tuesday.
Canada's Mike Weir, Sergio Garcia, Geoff Ogilvy, Ian Poulter and Fred Couples will compete for $360,000 in that event.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
Well, they’ve done a real ‘hatchet’ job on this year’s Telus World Skins Game. Why bother even having the event now? It’s turned into a complete joke, folks.
Bettman’s Meeting With Players Goes Into Overtime
21/06/2009 19:23
LAS VEGAS - After waiting 16 years to make an appearance at the NHLPA's player meetings, Gary Bettman needed a little extra time to get his point across.
The NHL commissioner spoke for almost two hours on Saturday morning -- more than double the time he was originally allotted. He began with an address to the roughly 110 players in attendance and faced questions on a range of topics.
Everyone seemed satisfied after Bettman's first-ever visit to these meetings.
"It was a big move on his part to come in here," said Detroit Red Wings defenceman Chris Chelios, often a critic of the commissioner. "It was a respectful meeting. We weren't going to do anything that was unprofessional. It took a lot for him to go out of his way and address the players.
"I just wish we had 700 guys in here to listen to him."
The commissioner spoke about the business of the sport and fielded questions from guys like Chelios, Robyn Regehr, Georges Laraques, Manny Malhotra and Kevin Weekes.
There was a time during Bettman's reign when a meeting like this would never have happened. However, NHLPA executive director Paul Kelly thinks it's important to keep an open dialogue with the league.
"In our business we have to strike the balance between working together in a professional, constructive manner and digging in to represent our respective sides," said Kelly. "My view is that we should be talking to each other, we should be listening to each other. ...
"I thought it was important for Gary to come to the players meetings to share with the players whatever he wished to share with them and also to respond to tough questions."
An interesting issue for the sides to work out moving forward is the league's policy on performance-enhancing drugs. Bettman is in favour of adopting the World Anti-Doping Agency's long list of banned substances and wants to see testing conducted all year.
The players discussed the issue on Saturday and seem to be split on what to do.
While none of them think there is a problem in the sport, there are a lot of things to consider before adopting a new policy.
"In the drug testing business, there are false positive (tests)," said Kelly. "We don't want guy's reputations or careers to be ruined by those instances. There has to be a mechanism to corroborate what appears to be a positive test.
"And then there has to be a system in place to make sure that player's rights are protected, that he's not going to be exposed to some type of criminal prosecution."
Another issue that came up with Bettman is the league's U.S. television contracts. Many players would prefer the league to strike a deal with ESPN, but the commissioner remains committed to Versus and NBC.
Regehr chuckled while describing the spin Bettman put on that issue while meeting the players.
"I think it was a really good commercial by him for Versus and NBC," said Regehr.
One thing that wasn't officially decided here was whether the players will enact the five-per-cent inflator on the salary cap -- a decision that will affect next year's number by US$2 million.
Secret ballots were cast by the player representatives in attendance but there wasn't enough of them to register a binding result. Missing players have until Tuesday to register their vote.
This day was more about Bettman.
Among the issues he touched on were fighting, the problems in Phoenix, the current economy and NHL participation in the Olympics. He was grateful to have the opportunity.
"There may not have been a whole lot of new information, but it was an opportunity for players to get a sense of how we look at things," said Bettman.
He seemed to make a fairly good impression.
"A lot of criticism flies towards Gary, but you can't knock him for being a bad businessman," said Buffalo Sabres goalie Ryan Miller. "He's a very strong businessman, he's a smart man.
"It's good for guys to sit there and listen to his opinions and to learn. Of course, he has the interests of the NHL in mind and we have to have our best interests at heart.
"He's trying to get the best deal for his owners and we're trying to get the best deal for us. But guys being able to hear his opinion first-hand and being able to ask him some questions was definitely beneficial."
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
After 16 years in the job, Bettman finally attends the players’ meetings? Pfft.
Letters, We Get Letters . . .
21/06/2009 04:39
Hi, Don:
I thought I'd try this on the Journal. Seldom do. Use it if it suits your site:
Dear Editor:
Minister Iris Evans is a courageous woman, saying as she has, how advantaged those children are whose one parent remains at home to look after them in formative years.
I think that was her message. For with that I completely agree.
Such a courageous woman will have no difficulty baring her soul to citizens, on the extent to which she has succeeded in her struggle to make this as practically possible for the less advantaged majority of parents.
Or, alternatively, to what extent she may have failed miserably.
I look forward to that revelation. Perhaps the Journal can assist.
Sincerely,
G. Deane Doucette,
St. Albert
SINC SAYS:
One thing Deane never lacks is an opinion.
--------------------------------
Re: Lucky Schoolboy
Finds Seven Leaf
CloverI couldn't resist answering.
What is a four leaf clover?
As a child in the UK ( 50+ years ago) Mom and I took our two dogs for a long walk each evening (about five miles) and I can remember one year in particular where there were so many multi leafed clover that we would only pick four leafed ones that night.
Then we would see how many we found and on the next night we would only pick ones with five or more leaves.
You should never look for them. If you are very observant you seem to notice something that doesn't look right, stop, take a closer look, and there it is.
The most leaves we found on one clover was 10. No proof remains, as we did not press them or anything.
The same plant will keep on producing multi leafed clovers so the scientific part of my brain wonders if it is a mutation and wonders why the same plant can produce mostly three leafed clovers but some of the more unusual ones.
This was long before genetic modification. Now there's something you could apply for a grant for to study the multi-leafed clover phenomenon!
No Name Please
St. Albert
SINC SAYS:
There’s one thing about our readers. They always have a story to tell when they read something here. Thanks for that tale.
Ya GOTTA LOVE DRUNK PEOPLE
21/06/2009 04:39
A man and his wife
were awakened at 3:00 a.m. by a loud pounding
on the door.
The man gets up and
goes to the door where a drunken stranger,
standing in the pouring rain, is asking for a
push.
"Not a chance," says the husband, "it is 3:00 in the morning!"
He slams the door and returns to bed.
"Who was that?" asked his wife.
"Just some drunk guy asking for a push," he answers.
"Did you help him?" she asks.
"No, I did not, it is 3:00 in the morning and it is pouring rain out there!"
"Well, you have a short memory," says his wife. "Can't you remember about three months ago when we broke down, and those two guys helped us? I think you should help him, and you should be ashamed of yourself!"
The man does as he is told, gets dressed, and goes out into the pounding rain.
He calls out into the dark, "Hello, are you still there?"
"Yes," comes back the answer.
"Do you still need a push?" calls out the husband.
"Yes, please!" comes the reply from the dark..
"Where are you?" asks the husband.
"Over here, on the swing," replied the drunk.
"Not a chance," says the husband, "it is 3:00 in the morning!"
He slams the door and returns to bed.
"Who was that?" asked his wife.
"Just some drunk guy asking for a push," he answers.
"Did you help him?" she asks.
"No, I did not, it is 3:00 in the morning and it is pouring rain out there!"
"Well, you have a short memory," says his wife. "Can't you remember about three months ago when we broke down, and those two guys helped us? I think you should help him, and you should be ashamed of yourself!"
The man does as he is told, gets dressed, and goes out into the pounding rain.
He calls out into the dark, "Hello, are you still there?"
"Yes," comes back the answer.
"Do you still need a push?" calls out the husband.
"Yes, please!" comes the reply from the dark..
"Where are you?" asks the husband.
"Over here, on the swing," replied the drunk.
The Coffin Couch
21/06/2009 04:38
Why
not enjoy the comfort of the afterlife today? Through
the miracle of modern carpentry you too can have your
own little piece of heaven. This little gem has a
velvet covered thick foam cushion and classic metal
spring construction seat. It folds up to a fully shut
position.Available in purple, red,or black fabric.