Thursday, March 15, 2012

Pumpkin found hanging in pear tree in Iowa

GREENFIELD, Iowa (AP) — An Iowa couple have discovered an eerie presence in their pear tree, just in time for the approaching Halloween season.

Des Moines television station KCCI (http://bit.ly/p3VYpL ) reports that Phil and JaNelle Lovely recently discovered a pumpkin that appears to be growing in the tree at their Greenfield home, 50 miles southwest of Des Moines.

They say they have no …

Research links pesticides with ADHD in children

A new analysis of U.S. health data links children's attention-deficit disorder with exposure to common pesticides used on fruits and vegetables.

While the study couldn't prove that pesticides used in agriculture contribute to childhood learning problems, experts said the research is persuasive.

"I would take it quite seriously," said Virginia Rauh of Columbia University, who has studied prenatal exposure to pesticides and wasn't involved in the new study.

More research will be needed to confirm the tie, she said.

Children may be especially prone to the health risks of pesticides because they're still growing and they may …

GM, Ford sales tumble in September

DETROIT - High gas prices and a summer of heavy discounting sentsales of sport utility vehicles plummeting last month for U.S.automakers. Asian manufacturers, who had avoided the employee-pricing lures Detroit offered, saw their results less affected.

Several automakers reported strong car sales in their monthlyreports released Monday, but SUVs took a hit industrywide in the U.S.market as gas prices skyrocketed following Hurricane Katrina.

Sales of the GMC Envoy and Chevrolet Tahoe fell more than 50percent compared to last September. The Cadillac Escalade, MazdaTribute, Ford Explorer, Ford Expedition, Toyota Sequoia and NissanArmada all saw their sales fall by 18 …

Wednesday, March 14, 2012

Official: Wallenberg possibly outlived death date

MOSCOW (AP) — Raoul Wallenberg, who saved tens of thousands of Hungarian Jews before vanishing into Soviet captivity, may have been alive after the official 1947 date of his death — but only for a few days, says the chief archivist of Russia's counterintelligence service.

The disappearance of the 32-year-old Swedish diplomat is an abiding mystery of World War II. His defiance of the Nazis is commemorated worldwide in statues, in streets named for him and in postage stamps bearing his likeness, and to this day inspires scholarly articles, popular books and Hollywood movies.

It also has been a perpetual embarrassment for Moscow, which has failed to dislodge a stubborn belief, …

Best Buy cuts fiscal 2009 profit outlook

Best Buy Co. Inc. rattled investors Wednesday, warning that an already grim holiday shopping season that's expected to be the worst in decades might be getting worse.

Days after its rival Circuit City filed for bankruptcy protection, the nation's largest consumer electronics chain dramatically cut its fiscal 2009 earnings outlook and said it was being hammered by the worst retail environment the 42-year-old company has yet to endure.

"Rapid, seismic changes in consumer behavior have created the most difficult climate we've ever seen," Chief Executive Brad Anderson said in a statement. "Best Buy simply can't adjust fast enough to maintain our …

Red Sox tomahawk Indians 24-5

Tony Armas drove in six runs with two homers, including a grandslam in a 12-run sixth inning, and Spike Owen scored a record-tyingsix runs last night as the visiting Boston Red Sox routed Cleveland24-5, the most runs scored against the Indians in their 86-yearhistory.

Dennis "Oil Can" Boyd (12-9) allowed eight hits in seven inningsto gain his first victory since July 8 as the Red Sox scored the mostruns by an American League team this season. Boyd had lost all threeof his starts since returning from his suspension Aug. 1, compiling a5.95 earned-run average in that span.

Owen's six runs tied the modern major league record. The lastplayer and the only American …

Tribune 2Q Earnings Fall 59 Percent

CHICAGO - Tribune Co., parent of the Chicago Tribune, Los Angeles Times and Chicago Cubs, said Wednesday its second-quarter earnings sank 59 percent on a deepening slump in advertising revenue and some hefty charges and non-operating losses.

The results fell slightly short of estimates on Wall Street, but Tribune's lagging stock rebounded after CEO Dennis FitzSimons reiterated confidence in the company's pending $8.2 billion buyout.

"Our going-private transaction is on track and the financing for it is fully committed," FitzSimons said in a statement. "We anticipate closing the transaction in the fourth quarter, following FCC approval, and expect to be in full compliance …

US highway deaths at lowest levels since 1961

An economic downturn can have a positive side: U.S. highway deaths in 2008 fell to their lowest level since John F. Kennedy was president.

The recession and $4 per gallon gas meant people drove less to save more. Experts also cited record high seat belt use, tighter enforcement of drunken driving laws and the work of advocacy groups that encourage safer driving habits.

Preliminary figures being released by the government Monday show that 37,313 people died in motor vehicle traffic crashes last year. That's 9.1 percent lower than the year before, when 41,059 died, and the fewest since 1961, when there were 36,285 deaths.

A different measure, also …

Law protects low-income housing units

In a move applauded by housing activists around the city, newfederal housing legislation has eliminated one of the most seriousthreats to Chicago's low-income housing stock.

The new law, which takes effect in January, places a host ofrestrictions on developers seeking to prepay mortgages on housingprojects that received financial support from the U.S. Department ofHousing and Urban Development.

The severity of the restrictions is expected to force owners ofHUD-sponsored property to preserve more than 10,000 low-incomeapartments in Chicago.

"These are critical properties and it is imperative that we holdonto them," said Salvatore V. Ferrera, president of …

Alshammar wins women's 50 freestyle at worlds

SHANGHAI (AP) — Four-time Olympian Therese Alshammar of Sweden has won the women's 50-meter freestyle on the final night of the world swimming championships.

Alshammar finished in 24.14 seconds ahead of two swimmers from the Netherlands — Ranomi …

Netanyahu: Peace talks could resume in weeks

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Wednesday he had reason to believe that long-stalled peace talks with the Palestinians could resume in a matter of weeks.

Netanyahu did not give details, but an official indicated Israel would take a step to make it possible for the Palestinians to agree to talks. He did not elaborate and spoke on condition of anonymity because no offer has been made.

Palestinians have been insisting that Israel halt all construction in Jewish West Bank settlements before peace talks are restarted. They rejected a partial 10-month freeze Netanyahu imposed in late November as insufficient, because it does not include east …

New rules will stick

WASHINGTON George W. Bush made one campaign pledge to businessesthat he'll find difficult to keep, analysts say. He's unlikely to beable to do much about lifting federal regulations, even the ones theClinton administration imposes in its final weeks.

"He can't take a pen and say never mind," said Baruch Fellner, anattorney at Gibson Dunn and Crutcher. Fellner represents the NationalAssociation of Manufacturers and other business groups suing to blockworkplace-safety rules that they say will cost industry $100 billiona year.

The ergonomics rules made final Nov. 13 are among severalinstances in which President Clinton's administration is issuingcontroversial rules after years of study. And Republicans note thathe still has a month to issue more.

"From pesticides to ergonomics, you're going to continue to seethe president use executive authority to bypass Congress," saidMichael Sommers, a spokesman for Rep. John Boehner. The OhioRepublican has questioned new rules by the National Labor RelationsBoard that govern benefits for temporary workers.

A Supreme Court ruling during former President Ronald Reagan'sadministration requires hearings and a review process that couldgrind on for years before any rules are rescinded.

"A new administration would have to go into 600 pages oflegislation and have to explain why (the standards) are no longervalid," said Randy Johnson, vice president of labor and employeebenefits at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

The Clinton administration may issue more rules but says it isn'trushing just to take advantage of Clinton's final days in office,said Linda Ricci, spokeswoman for the White House Office ofManagement and Budget.

"It's the prerogative of any president to use the rule-makingauthority to achieve goals," she said.

Before issuing final regulations, the administration has generallygone through several rounds of proposals, each of which was subjectto public comment and, often, congressional hearings and delays. Theworkplace-safety rules issued by the Occupational Safety and HealthAdministration were in the works for years, and were repeatedlydelayed by Congress. An attempt to delay them again until the nextadministration collapsed just a few days ago.

Other proposals being closely watched by businesses include:

A regulation, known as the "responsibility rule" by supporters andthe "blacklist" provision by opponents, that would require companiesvying for government contracts to show they've not violated tax,labor, employment and other laws.

An Environmental Protection Agency standard to reduce the sulfurcontent of diesel fuel by 2006 and require modifications in truck andbus diesel engines to cut down pollution. The oil industry opposesthe fuel proposal and has come out with its own plan to reduce sulfurcontent.

An EPA standard that would assess the risk of pesticides such asdiazinon as part of food-safety requirements. Chemical manufacturers are against these proposals. On Dec. 5, the EPA announced anagreement with chemical manufacturers Syngenta AG, the world'slargest farm-chemical maker, and Makhteshim-Agan Industries Ltd. tophase out the use of diazinon in home- and garden-care products.

Letters

This section is a forum for discussion and discemment. Letters exprass ths opinion of the writer only, not necessarily tho position of Canadian Mennonite, ths five area churches or Mennonite Church Canada. Letters should address issues rather than criticizing individuals and include contact Information. We will send copies of letters referring to other parties to them to provide an opportunity to respond in a future issue if their views have not already been printed in an earlier letter. Please send letters to be considered for publication to letters@canadianmennonite.org or to Canadian Mennonite, 490 Dutton Drive, Unit C5, Waterloo, ON, N2L 6H7, "Attn: Letter to the Editor." Letters may be edited for length, style andadherence to editorial guidelines.

Botter to cope with climate change than try to reverse it

I was interested to see yet another editorial on the seriousness of climate change in the Feb. 5 issue ("Hurting the least of these," page 2).

Despite our protestations, I have not noticed any reaction from my Mennonite friends who continue to drive their SUVs and oversized trucks just as they always have, visiting relatives distributed far and wide all over western Canada with the same regularity.

Please do not dismiss me as one who does not believe that there have been some very unusual changes in climate in recent years, but I do have considerable doubts about the increase in carbon dioxide in our atmosphere being the principal factor in these changes. Climate is just not that simple.

There is really no experimental evidence that can be repeated by different scientists that would confirm the overarching effects of carbon dioxide repeatedly trumpeted by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, and that, after all, is the standard litmus test expected of most scientific research.

Personally, I believe that we would be much better advised to develop ways to best cope with the climate changes that are happening rather than devoting a large portion of our efforts to trying to reverse the trend.

No thinking Canadian would support carbon taxes because, like other governments before them, this one would take the taxes and put the money into the general revenue.

As for more expensive and "efficient" technologies, it takes more ethanol by weight than regular gas to produce the same amount of energy and just as much carbon dioxide is produced. And there have been recent food riots in Mexico because the poor are finding their largely corn-based food staples are rising in price which, they believe, is the result of increased ethanol production north of the border.

And it requires more energy to produce hydrogen fuel cells than the energy that can be obtained from the cells, even at 100 percent efficiency.

And as for "placing limits on how much fossil fuel a person could use in a year," we do not need "energy police" in Canada. I don't want to live in a fascist dictatorship, thank you.

-Clyde Ovens, Calgary, Atta.

Worship conference coverage 'refreshing'

Thank you for the coverage of the Refreshing Winds worship conference at Canadian Mennonite University in the Feb. 19 issue of Canadian Mennonite. As a first-time attendee, the report ("Christian work flows out of Christian worship," page 32), meditative poem ("When our dancing turns to mourning," page 6), and pictures reminded me anew of the positive influence the weekend had on me.

I would like to add a note about Irma Fast Dueck's involvement. Her "Symbol, sign and ritual" workshop was powerful and her work as master of ceremonies for the sessions added much to the spirit of the conference.

Thanks for inspiring reading.

-Peggy Hiebert, Kelowna, B.C.

Vietnamese pastor abusing his freedom

On page 33 of the Feb. 19 issue, there was another story on the continuing saga of the Mennonite Church's conflict in Ho Chi Minh City, District 2 ("Congregation continues to meet after yet another conflict with authorities").

Since we have many non-Christian Vietnamese friends in Vietnam, we have been following this story with interest and despair. Our friends believe that Nguyen Hong Quang is abusing his political and religious freedoms, and is deliberately taunting the authorities.

The Vietnamese press has described Nguyen as a "hooligan" and troublemaker. It ignored the religious context of the conflict and focused on the political and legal issues Nguyen is reported to have violated.

Also, we think it is time that the American author of these stories is identified along with his relationship to the so-called "Vietnamese Ministries" organization. If he objects to being identified, then Canadian Mennonite should not print his stories.

The story contains a repeated call for "the worldwide church to pray for the churches and authorities in Vietnam." We would urge people to pray specifically that Nguyen finds the right balance between assertion/confrontation and negotiation/peacemaking.

-Joanna and Doug Durst, Regina

Seeing Christ in St. Kevin

St. Kevin of Glendalough was a sixth century Irish hermit who lived in a hole more or less in the rock wall of a cliff, emerging in winter to stand for hours stark naked in the icy waters or in the summer to hurl himself-naked again-into poisonous nettle bushes.

He eventually allowed a monastic community to form around him. They were not all able to fit into the hole in the cliff face, which was about a metre wide and high and two metres deep, so St. Kevin agreed reluctantly to move to the shore of the lake, where his disciples built a tiny church for their master-a wonder of Irish engineering that stands to this day-and small huts for themselves that have long since disappeared.

Although they lived singly, they gathered together to chant the Psalms at the appointed monastic hours, which caused them to rise twice each night and walk to the chapel in the cold dark to sing their office.

Soon enough, even the level shore of the lake proved to be inadequate to St. Kevin's community, for people began to come from all over Ireland to sit at the feet of the monks and to learn all they had to teach.

This is of great interest to me because I only lived a short walk from this holy place. To walk in the place of a saint and monks who kept alive the Christian faith is something that sends a shiver up my back. I have climbed the face of that cliff many a time and to think that St. Kevin had stayed in such a gloomy place for so many years had a profound effect on me as young lad growing up.

Can anybody dare tell me that there is no Christ when I have seen things of this nature? Without Christian people of that time, who can tell what kind of a God we might be worshipping today.

-Bill J. Heavener, Cochrane, Ont.

Stories bode well for church's future

I just want to let you know I enjoy and appreciate reading Canadian Mennonite. It seems to become more interesting and helpful as time goes on. "Seniors and the future of the church" by Robert J. Suderman, "Pensive in Egypt" by Barrette Plett, "Berries, 'cold gravy' and generosity" by Mike Strathdee and more in the Feb. 5 issue give hope for the future generations. And DeskTop reading makes for a good start. Thanks to the writers.

-Mary J. Mireau, Saskatoon

High Church worship meaningful for many

Thank you for your fine articles on High Church worship (March 5, pages 4 to 9).

From my observation, the so-called High Church worship phenomenon already has deep roots in the Mennonite community. The only mystery is why it had been left unaddressed in the Mennonite media for so long. Instead, the frequent focus of most worship discussion has been on the more "spontaneous" forms of worship making inroads into the community. Many in our Mennonite communion, however, continue to experience spiritual vitality in the more ritualized forms of worship.

While spontaneity connotes spiritual energy to some, others find deep meaning and spiritual fulfillment in services that are thoroughly planned. Indeed, the planning process itself should be a deeply meaningful spiritual exercise. The Spirit is present in the preparatory writing, praying and, yes, thinking. Similarly, the music is seen as deeply integrated with the Scripture readings, the sermon, the prayers and every other aspect of the service. Words are still the dominant means by which we communicate and express our faith-whether in prayer, hymn, anthem or sermon. It is incumbent upon us, therefore, to choose each word carefully and deliberately in order to allow our language to communicate as effectively as possible what it is we wish to say to God and to each other.

Furthermore, the richness of Christian tradition is seen as a valuable asset to the worshipping community. Both words and music draw deeply from these historic spiritual wells. One Mennonite leader, who switched his membership to the Anglican Church, informed me that he did so because in his area of the country the Mennonite churches no longer held to their historic doctrines, while the Anglican congregation in that region was both theologically and liturgically closest to the Saskatchewan Mennonite congregation in which he was raised.

He is not alone. As many seek to abandon the theological heritage of their denomination, others feel they have to leave the Mennonite communion in order to locate their Mennonite theological and liturgical heritage-and to connect their faith with the wider Christian communion. Let us embrace the diversity of worship among us and therein also find Christian unity.

Finally, while I appreciated John Longhurst's review of Vespers at CMU, it should be noted that monthly Vespers were already a regular feature at Canadian Mennonite Bible College when I was a student there from 1976-79, which means they predate even my own experience.

-Edmund Pries, Kitchener, Ont.

Tuesday, March 13, 2012

Verizon offers $250 in-home cell phone booster

Verizon Wireless has started selling a book-sized device that boosts cell phone signals within a home for $250, making it easier for people to drop a home phone line and rely solely on wireless.

The Verizon Wireless Network Extender needs to be connected to a broadband Internet line. Then it acts a miniature cellular tower, listening for signals from a subscriber's cell phone. It covers up to 5,000 square feet, the company said Monday.

Such devices are known as "femtocells." Verizon Wireless, the country's largest carrier, is following in the footsteps of Sprint Nextel Corp., which started selling a femtocell under the Airave brand nationwide last year.

The Airave costs $100, but Sprint charges an extra $5 per month for use. Verizon Wireless is not charging a monthly fee.

AT&T Inc. is testing femtocells in employees' homes, and plans to conduct customer trials in at least one market in the second quarter, spokesman Mark Siegel said.

The Verizon Wireless and Sprint femtocells are made by Samsung Electronics Co. and relay voice and low-speed data connections. The AT&T unit will also relay fast "3G" data connections.

T-Mobile USA has chosen a different technological route to expand indoor coverage. It sells Wi-Fi routers and phones that can place calls over Wi-Fi in addition to regular wireless calls.

Verizon Wireless is a joint venture of Verizon Communications Inc. of New York and Vodafone Group PLC of Britain.

___

On the Net:

Verizon's Network Extender: http://tinyurl.com/bjs3ed

Sen. Trotter: Jones probe no witch-hunt

The federal subpoena issued to Illinois Senate Democrats investigating potential campaign abuse is not a "witch-hunt" to snare Senate President Emil Jones Jr., Sen. Donne Trotter (D-17th) said Wednesday.

Cindy Davidsmeyer, a spokesperson for Jones said: "There is a subpoena that we are complying with fully, and the Senate President is confident that his staff has done nothing wrong."

In an interview with the Chicago Defender, Trotter confirmed Jones has been subpoenaed by the U.S. attorney's office. However, he made it clear that the Senate Democrats are under investigation.

"It's an ongoing investigation that started in the House," explained Trotter.

Referring to House Speaker Mike Madigan, Trotter said earlier it was the Speaker who was questioned about using staff for campaign purposes. "That is why Lee Daniels had to step down, because he was using his staff as workers for candidates running for office," said Trotter.

"You aren't supposed to be political or use tax dollars when you run for office. That is why we have campaign fund-raisers to pay for workers. But you don't have workers paid for by state dollars," said Trotter.

"The president (Jones) is confident that he will pass scrutiny with them. It's not routine, but, it's an ongoing investigation," Trotter stated.

However, Trotter made it clear that the investigation "is not aimed at Senate President Jones.

"Mike Madigan had to go through it after it was alleged he had rented an office with state dollars and had volunteers for various office headquarters in a state-paid office.

"There has to be a separation between your legislative and campaign offices. Under Lee Daniels, there wasn't that separation....

"I think the Senate Republicans will be next..., but, this is not a witch-hunt.... It is their job to investigate.... It's not just an investigation that's out to get Emil Jones or Mike Madigan."

Photograph (Emil Jones)

Marseille's Lucho Gonzalez out injured 4-6 weeks

Marseille will be without its record signing Lucho Gonzalez for up to six weeks after the Argentina midfielder fractured his left collarbone in a friendly against St. Etienne on Wednesday.

Gonzalez, who joined Marseille from Porto for euro18 million ($25 million), left the field with his left arm in a sling accompanied by the club's doctor after being pushed to the ground by an opponent and landing heavily.

"We envisage that he will return during the first two weeks of September, which indicates an absence of four to six weeks," Marseille said on its Web site. "He will receive daily treatment."

The 28-year-old Gonzalez has played 43 games for Argentina, scoring six times. He tore the meniscus in his left knee in a Champions League match against Manchester United in April.

Marseille finished second in the French league last season, three points behind champion Bordeaux. Marseille begins the new season away to Grenoble on Aug. 8.

Marseille beat Saint-Etienne 1-0, with Ivory Coast forward Bakari Kone scoring.

[ Marth Stewart is proving she's adept at more than homemaking. ]

Marth Stewart is proving she's adept at more than homemaking.

The shares of her company, Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia Inc.,are trading 40 percent above their late-October-low as investorsspeculate prosecutors lack evidence to bring a criminal insider-trading case against the media company's founder.

A month ago, investors were concerned that federal investigatorswere close to filing charges against Stewart, the company's founderand CEO, raising the prospect of near-fatal damage to her brand name.The New York-based media company also said fourth-quarter profitwould be reduced by costs from the ongoing investigation.

Since then, Martha Stewart Living shares have surged almost byhalf, easily outdistancing the 3 percent gain in the Standard &Poor's 500 index. They closed Monday at $10.08, down 49 cents.

Now investors are saying the shares are rising because theinvestigation of Stewart appears to have stalled, and consumerscontinue to buy the company's products and publications, includingMartha Stewart Living magazine.

"My gut instinct is that people are taking more time to look atthe operation, and see that it's more than just Martha," said NorthAmerican Management Corp.'s David Baker, who manages about $450million and held 41,700 Martha Stewart Living shares on Sept. 30.

Stewart's sale of 3,928 shares of ImClone Systems Inc. lastDecember is still creating legal difficulties for her. The Securitiesand Exchange Commission staff has informed Stewart that it intends torecommend filing civil charges against her.

Stewart sold her ImClone shares on Dec. 27, one day before federalregulators rejected the company's application for a cancer drug. Shehas denied acting on inside information and said she sold the sharesbecause of an agreement with her broker to do so whenever the pricedropped below $60.

Investors have valued Martha Stewart shares based on how theyhandicap the outcome of the investigation.

"The stock is reacting to lots of speculation that was negativeand now is much more positive," said Adams Harkness & Hill analystLaura Richardson, who has a "reduce" rating on the shares and doesn'town them personally.

No new developments in the case have become public since a reportin October that the SEC's enforcement staff will recommend civilsecurities charges against her. SEC spokesman John Heine declined tocomment on the status of the case.

Douglas Faneuil, an assistant to Stewart's broker, pleaded guiltyto a misdemeanor on Oct. 2 and agreed to cooperate with prosecutors.Former ImClone Chief Executive Samuel Waksal pleaded guilty toinsider trading without implicating Stewart.

"The whole body of evidence at this point doesn't look like it'sgoing to put Martha in jail," Richardson said.

Martha Stewart Living posted a 42 percent drop in third-quarterprofit and said fourth-quarter results would miss forecasts. Thecompany blamed the decline on $2 million in legal fees and corporatecosts related to the investigation.

Aside from those costs, the company's two biggest revenue sources,publishing and merchandise, generated increases.

Kmart Corp. has said it will keep selling Martha Stewart Living-branded products, which have been among its most popular products.The discount retailer has been running a TV spot featuring Stewart'svoice in television ads for her new holiday collection.

Martha Stewart Living also is showing indications it might belooking for ways to rely less on Stewart's public image. The companycanceled a prime-time holiday television special, showcasingStewart's flair for cooking and crafts, that in the past had run onViacom's CBS network.

Martha Stewart Living magazine will feature other editors besidesStewart, while a new magazine called Everyday Food will appear nextyear on newsstands without Stewart's name in the title.

Some investors and analysts said the investigation has forced thecompany to reduce its reliance on one dominant personality to sellproducts.

"It's something everyone knew had to be done, and this fast-forwarded that process," North American Management's Baker said."This is an opportunity, though Martha may never think so."

Bloomberg News

Martha Stewart shares climb as investigation stalls

Presidential candidates scramble to turn Pakistan violence to their advantage at home

The assassination of former Pakistani prime minister Benazir Bhutto in Pakistan jolted the race for the White House on Thursday, sending candidates in both parties scrambling for political advantage.

Republican Sen. John McCain of Arizona and Democratic Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton of New York, who have made experience a cornerstone of their campaigns, said the murder of the charismatic opposition leader was proof of a need for a U.S. president who is ready to take command.

"I know from my lifetime of experience you have to be prepared for whatever might happen, and that's particularly true today," Clinton said in an Associated Press interview while campaigning in Iowa.

She declined to be drawn into a discussion about the impact on a leading rival, Barack Obama, the first-term senator from Illinois who has stressed a need for change in Washington.

McCain was not so reticent about comparing his experience with that of other Republican contenders.

"My theme has been throughout this campaign that I'm the one with the experience, the knowledge and the judgment. So perhaps it may serve to enhance those credentials to make people understand that I've been to Pakistan, I know Musharraf, I can pick up the phone and call him. I knew Benazir Bhutto."

Asked later by reporters about his rivals, he said former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee does not have "the same experience and background on national security issues that I do."

He said former New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani had done a great job with a "post-crisis situation" after terrorists brought down the World Trade Center towers on Sept. 11, 2001. McCain added, "I'm not saying he is without credentials. I'm saying I am the one with the most credentials and the most experience and the most judgment."

Giuliani, meanwhile, issued a statement that said the assassination was further evidence that the United States needs to increase its efforts against terrorism _ and he began running an a new TV ad focusing on the Sept. 11 attacks.

McCain made no mention of another leading Republican rival, Mitt Romney. But the former Massachusetts governor was eager to join the debate.

"If the answer for leading the country is someone that has a lot of foreign policy experience, we can just go down to the State Department and pick up any one of the tens of thousands of people who spent all their life in foreign policy," he said while campaigning in New Hampshire.

Instead, he said, what is needed is a chief executive with leadership and the ability to assemble "a great team of people to be able to guide and direct them to understand what decision has to be made."

Bhutto's assassination occurred one week before the Iowa caucuses, the first test of the 2008 race for the White House, and provided a reminder of the importance of national security in an era of terrorism. The caucuses and the New Hampshire primary five days later are key races in the political parties' state-by-state process of selecting presidential nominees. Candidates who do poorly in those early voting states often drop out of the race while those who win support are able to secure a valuable advantage in representing their party as the presidential candidate.

After several months of near-constant campaign focus on the war in Iraq, foreign policy had taken on a less pronounced role in recent months. With violence in the war receding, at least for the present, some public opinion polls have shown more people expressing concern about the economy than events overseas.

In Iowa, officials disclosed that internal polling by the top three Democratic campaigns showed Clinton, Obama and former North Carolina Sen. John Edwards in a virtual dead heat. Edwards had slight momentum going into Christmas, said these officials, who spoke on condition of anonymity while discussing confidential information.

Among Republicans, private as well as public polls in Iowa show Huckabee with the lead over Romney, who had been the front-runner in the state for months. In New Hampshire, Romney polls narrowly ahead of McCain, who has made gains in recent weeks as Giuliani and former Tennessee Sen. Fred Thompson have faded.

Bhutto was assassinated Thursday by an attacker who shot her after a campaign rally and then blew himself up. The death triggered further unrest in the nuclear-armed nation, a key ally of the United States in the fight against terrorism.

Alone among the White House contenders, New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson _ a former U.N. ambassador and energy secretary, called on President George W. Bush to pressure Pakistani President Pervez Musharraf to step aside in favor of a coalition government.

"Until this happens, we should suspend military aid to the Pakistani government," he said in a statement. "Free and fair elections must also be held as soon as possible," added Richardson, who served as ambassador to the United Nations for a portion of the Clinton administration.

Obama said he had asked the administration for intelligence briefings on a dicey situation.

In a criticism of current policy, he said the war in Iraq had diverted troops and other resources needed to track down al-Qaida terrorists who move between Afghanistan and Pakistan. "I've been saying for some time that we've got a very big problem there," he said.

Edwards declined to endorse Richardson's idea on Musharraf, saying "I don't think now is the time to talk about things like that." He later talked with the Pakistani president and said he urged him to "continue on the path to democratization, to allow international investigators to come in to determine what happened."

Giuliani said of Bhutto: "Her death is a reminder that terrorism anywhere _ whether in New York, London, Tel-Aviv or Rawalpindi _ is an enemy of freedom. We must redouble our efforts to win the terrorists' war on us."

Said Huckabee: "The terrible violence surrounding Pakistan's upcoming election stands in stark contrast to the peaceful transition of power that we embrace in our country through our Constitution. On this sad day, we are reminded that while our democracy has flaws, it stands as a shining beacon of hope for nations and people around the world who seek peace and opportunity through self-government."

Demcoratic Sen. Joseph Biden, chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, told reporters in Iowa that he had twice this past fall urged Musharraf "to provide better security for Ms. Bhutto and other political leaders. ... The failure to protect Ms. Bhutto raises a lot of hard questions for the government and security services that must be answered."

____

AP Writers Ron Fournier, Mike Glover, Glen Johnson, Nedra Pickler and Liz Sidoti contributed to this story.

Kaman helps Clippers beat Bucks

Chris Kaman had 20 points and seven rebounds and the Los Angeles Clippers snapped an eight-game losing streak, recovering after squandering a big second-half lead to beat the Milwaukee Bucks 101-93 on Wednesday night.

Drew Gooden added 16 points and 11 rebounds, Baron Davis had 14 points and seven assists, and Eric Gordon had 14 points for the Clippers, 5-15 since Kim Hughes took over as interim head coach.

Brandon Jennings had 21 points to lead Milwaukee, which had won six straight games and 12 of its previous 13. John Salmons added 20 points, and Andrew Bogut had 18 points and 11 rebounds.

The Clippers led by 16 early in the second half, but the Bucks closed the third quarter with an 18-2 run to take a 74-72 lead.

The Clippers responded with a 14-2 run to start the fourth quarter and held on for their first victory since beating Utah 108-104 on March 1.

The Clippers used a 13-3 run over the final 4:27 of the second quarter to take a 52-43 lead. They tacked on the first six points of the third quarter to take their biggest lead, 59-43, after Gooden's basket with 10:36 remaining.

Kaman, coming off a 3-for-15 night in the Clippers' 106-100 loss to New Orleans on Monday, made 5 of 6 shots in the first quarter. He finished 8 of 13 from the field, helping the Clippers shoot 53 percent (34 of 64) to the Bucks' 45 percent (37 of 83).

Jennings, from nearby Compton, had struggled in his previous appearance at Staples Center, going 4 for 17 from the field and scoring 10 points in a 95-77 loss to the Lakers on Jan. 10. But he scored 16 points during the third quarter, including 12 during the Bucks' run to close the period.

NOTES: Bucks coach Scott Skiles said forward Carlos Delfino, inactive because of a left ankle injury, would be reevaluated Thursday. "We're hoping it's just a one-game deal," Skiles said. Delfino started the previous 26 games. ... Although it was the 69th game for the Clippers and the 66th for the Bucks, it was the first time the teams met this season. They will play again March 30 in Milwaukee. The teams split the series each of the last two seasons.

Depiction of a brutal dictator

The Last King Of Scotland (15)

BASED on the novel by Giles Foden, The Last King Of Scotlandexperiences the rise of Ugandan dictator Idi Amin (Whitaker) throughthe eyes of fictitious doctor Nicholas Garrigan (McAvoy), who becomesthe president's personal physician.

Abandoning his post at a mission clinic run by Dr Merrit (Kotz)and his wife Sarah (Anderson), Nicholas moves to Kampala to attend toAmin and to work alongside Dr Junju (Oyelowo) at the capital'simpressive new hospital.

Nicholas is quickly seduced by his host's wealth and power, and iseven more taken with Kay (Washington), one of Amin's young wives.

They embark on an illicit affair and once Amin discovers thebetrayal, Nicholas glimpses the brutal, unforgiving despot behind thepolished media facade.

The Last King Of Scotland begins rather gently but soon gathersdramatic momentum, and the final 20 minutes are a tour de force ofedge-of-the-seat suspense, replete with scenes of sickening andgraphic violence, which will leave some viewers feeling queasy.

Whitaker's Oscar-winning verbal fireworks blow everyone else offscreen and McAvoy struggles to make an impact as the good man inAfrica, who pays a terrible price for his disloyalty.

Peter Morgan and Jeremy Brock's screenplay provides Washington andAnderson with little emotional meat to sink their teeth into as thewomen whose romantic dalliances with Nicholas shape his fate.

Macdonald shoots on location in Uganda, using many authenticlocations including the Parliament building, the Mulago Hospital andEntebbe Airport where the climactic hostage crisis unfolds.

DVD extras includes a director commentary, Forest Whitaker - IdiAmin featurette, Capturing Idi Amin documentary, Fox Movie Channelpresents Casting Sessions - The Last King Of Scotland featurette.

Monday, March 12, 2012

Plain folks mark canal's 150 years

The big names never made it yesterday to the little parade inWillow Springs commemorating the 150th anniversary of the Illinois &Michigan Canal.

Gov. Thompson never showed. Adlai E. Stevenson III, his chiefopponent in November, was not to be found. But men akin to thoseimmigrant laborers who built the canal - men with broad backs, bigbellies and callused hands - did turn out for the homey parade downArcher Avenue. And that, the parade organizer said, was enough.

"This canal was dug by human beings like you and me," intonedTom Greenwood, a 78-year-old Cherokee Indian who first envisioned anational park along the historic canal. "Men with strong backs, withthe sweat drippin' off of 'em."

Yesterday's parade, a collection of fire engines, batontwirlers, blues bands, trotting horses and local suburbanpoliticians, moved two miles down Archer, parallel to the canal, fromsouthwestern suburban Summit to Willow Springs. The parade was thefirst step in an effort to generate publicity for plans to redevelopthe canal lands as a national park, with bicycle paths and hikingpaths.

Two years ago, President Reagan and Congress designated the DesPlaines River Valley from Chicago's lakefront to La Salle-Peru as theI&M Canal National Heritage Corridor. That same year, theLegislature created the I&M Canal National Corridor Civic CenterAuthority of Cook County to develop the corridor through its $18million bonding power.

Between 1836 and 1848, 5,000 laborers, mostly Irish immigrants,dug the 96-mile-long canal.

Many historians claim the canal, linking Lake Michigan and theMississippi River, made Chicago, opening the Midwest and West forsettlement. At its busiest, a million tons of cargo was shippedalong the canal in 1888.

But the canal's biggest benefit to the area most likely was thenational advertising it garnered for Chicago, and the workers andsettlers it brought.

Lukashenko: Belarus wants close ties with Europe

The Belarusian president accused Russia on Thursday of trying to subdue his nation through trade sanctions and said Belarus will seek closer economic ties with Europe.

Alexander Lukashenko said in televised comments that a recent Russian ban on the import of dairy products from Belarus had hurt ties between the two ex-Soviet neighbors. The move dealt a heavy blow to Belarus' agricultural sector, which employs one out of ten Belarusians.

"They wanted to inflict the maximum pain," Lukashenko said of the Russian move, which he cast as part of Moscow's efforts to win control over Belarusian milk factories.

Russia and Belarus have an accord envisaging close political, economic and military ties, and they declared a joint goal of building a single state. But Lukashenko has resisted Russian attempts to take control of key Belarusian industrial assets, and he has criticized Russia for trying to strong-arm his nation.

The Russian ban on Belarusian dairy products was lifted last week, but a potentially more troubling energy conflict looms.

Lukashenko said Thursday that Russian oil companies were pushing to control Belarusian oil refineries. He said his government is ready to discuss offers if they are fair.

Belarus is desperate for cash, as the global financial crisis has drained its hard-currency reserves. Russia agreed to lend Belarus $2 billion, but the transfer of the final $500 installment has been held up indefinitely.

Lukashenko said his nation needs to build up ties with the European Union because of Russian attempts to control Belarus.

"They are putting pressure on us at the Russian market, forcing us to search for other markets," he said.

Earlier this week, Lukashenko hosted EU External Relations Commissioner Benita Ferrero-Waldner, who said the European Union stands ready to expand cooperation with Belarus.

The EU this year formed a so-called "Eastern Partnership" with Belarus and five other former Soviet republics, offering closer economic and political ties in exchange for a commitment to democracy.

Belarus was invited to join after it freed all political prisoners, allowed the opposition to participate in elections and allowed two independent newspapers to operate.

Despite the goodwill, Ferrero-Waldner said Monday that Belarus still had some way to go to meet Western democratic standards.

Ex-Iraq Commander Says Bring Troops Home

Retired Army Lt. Gen. Ricardo Sanchez, the top commander in Iraq shortly after the fall of Baghdad, said this week he supports Democratic legislation that calls for most troops to come home within a year.

His comments come as welcomed ammunition for the Democratic-controlled Congress in its standoff with the White House on war spending. This month, the House passed a $50 billion bill that would pay for combat operations but sets the goal that combat end by Dec. 15, 2008. The White House threatened to veto the measure, and Senate Republicans blocked it from passing.

The Pentagon on Tuesday said that as many as 200,000 civilian employees and contractors will begin receiving layoff warnings by Christmas unless Congress approves a war spending bill that President Bush will sign.

"The improvements in security produced by the courage and blood of our troops have not been matched by a willingness on the part of Iraqi leaders to make the hard choices necessary to bring peace to their country," Sanchez said in remarks to be aired Saturday for the weekly Democratic radio address.

"There is no evidence that the Iraqis will choose to do so in the near future or that we have an ability to force that result," he said.

Sanchez added that the House bill "makes the proper preparation of our deploying troops a priority and requires the type of shift in their mission that will allow their numbers to be reduced substantially."

Critical assessments on the war from former Pentagon brass are nothing new. But Sanchez's newfound alliance with Democrats is particularly noteworthy because he was directly in charge of combat operations in Iraq, from 2003 to 2004.

He also is somewhat controversial. The Abu Ghraib prisoner abuse scandal happened under his watch, and some have pointed to leadership failures as a contributing factor. While he was not charged with any misconduct, Sanchez said upon retiring from the military in November 2006 that his career was a casualty of Abu Ghraib.

In October, the three-star general told a group of reporters that the U.S. mission in Iraq was a "nightmare with no end in sight." He also called Bush's decision to deploy 30,000 extra forces to Iraq earlier this year a "desperate attempt" to make up for years of misguided policies in Iraq.

Americans Horton, Wieber win American Cup

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (AP) — Jonathan Horton was more nervous before the American Cup on Saturday than he was leading into the world championships in October.

He worried about rusty routines, sloppy skill sets and fault-inducing fatigue.

"I kept thinking, 'Please don't have a meltdown,'" Horton said.

Not even close.

Horton finished in the top three in five of six events, good enough to win his third American Cup. Horton and Jordyn Wieber gave the United States a sweep of the international invitational.

"Major confidence boost," said Horton, who also won the event in 2006 and 2007.

The silver medalist at the Beijing Olympics moved from second to first place with a solid performance on the parallel bars, then held on with an error-free routine on the high bar.

Wieber topped the women's field in three of four events — she fell on uneven bars — and claimed her second American Cup. Not bad considering she got in the field as an alternate when Britain's Nicole Hibbert withdrew because of an injury.

Wieber overcame a small deficit in the final women's event, the floor exercise, despite stepping out of bounds on her opening pass.

"I was really just trying to do the best routine I could," said Wieber, the 2009 champion. "Even though I went out of bounds once, I still feel like I gave it my all. I just wanted to get every tenth out of that routine."

She did. The 2008 U.S. junior champion was flawless the rest of the way, allowing her to make up ground on world champion Aliya Mustafina of Russia.

Mustafina touched the floor at the end of a tumbling pass and finished second. Alexandra Raisman of the United States was third.

Ukraine's Mykola Kuksenkov was second on the men's side, followed by American Jake Dalton.

Philipp Boy of Germany and Daniel Purvis of Britain had disappointing meets.

Boy dropped off the pommel horse early in the competition and later fell twice on the high bar — two of his best events. The world silver medalist finished sixth, but still has time to get things worked out before the European championships next month.

Purvis, who finished fifth in all-around at worlds last year and won the bronze medal on floor, dropped off the pommel horse and fell while landing on vault. Purvis was the only man to not score at least a 14.8 and finished last in the field of eight.

Horton fared considerably better.

Maybe even better than he anticipated. He broke his left thumb in January while training on parallel bars and was limited to conditioning work for almost two months. He initially feared he might have to drop out of Saturday's meet, but recovered faster than expected.

"He's still not 100 percent right now," Dalton said. "He's about 80 percent, which is right where he should be right now. He's only going to get better."

Horton, a self-proclaimed perfectionist, found plenty to fault. He called his pommel routine "sloppy" and skipped a release on the high bar because he simply "ran out of gas." He made up for those weaknesses with new wrinkles on rings and parallel bars, and added a stellar vault.

"I was really happy with myself because I got through what I was doing," Horton said. "I never gave up and pushed through. I still have a lot of work to do."

The American Cup was the first of four all-around events in the World Cup series. Two-time world champion Kohei Uchimura had to withdraw because of a shoulder injury that bothered him at worlds, but the men's field was still considered the best since the world championships in October.

Horton came out on top, earning a silver trophy and more than $16,000 in winnings. He also picked up something maybe more valuable, especially with the London Games a little more than a year away.

"It's definitely a confidence boost," he said. "It wasn't great. At the end of it, I told my coach, 'You and I both know I can do better.' I can do a lot better."

PROPERTY FOR SALE

TIMSBURY Agents Davies & Way Contact 01225 400400 Price Pounds229,950 SALTFORD Agents Davies & Way Contact 01225 400400 PricePounds 575,000 This week Davies & Way is offering two lovelyproperties. The is Folly View, in Timsbury, which is a delightfulsemi-detached cottage that has been greatly improved and sensitivelymodernised.

It now provides appealing characterful accommodation arrangedover two floors, complemented by a pleasant enclosed rear garden. Italso has off-street parking. Internally the cottage has good-sizedaccommodation with two reception rooms and a large kitchen/breakfast room on the ground floor in addition to a downstairs WC.Upstairs there are two double bedrooms and a good-sized bathroom.

The location is very pleasant being on the edge of the popularvillage with rural views.

Approximately five miles south of Bath the village offers a widerange of local amenities including post office/general stores,chemist, primary school, church, doctors surgery, public houses andlocal shops.

There is a regular bus service through the village and for thosewishing to commute to Bristol and Bath access by road is good.

The second property, by award-winning developers Hills Homes, isone of four elegant detached properties in a quiet position offRodney Road in Saltford.

Each home features light and airy accommodation with fourbedrooms, two of which have en-suite facilities and a sociablekitchen/family/dining room for family and friends to meet, chat,cook, eat and entertain.

Each of the properties are set within good-sized garden plots andhave garage and parking.

Designed to embrace modern living, these properties combinetraditional building techniques with technological and ecologicaladvances to provide the perfect home.

Saltford is an excellent strategic location between the cities ofBristol and Bath offering a range of village amenities and excellentlocal schools both with the village primary school and Wellsway atKeynsham, which achieved an outstanding Ofsted report in 2011.

The cities of Bristol and Bath are within easy reach by road andpublic transport.

LANDLORDS `EVICTED' IN TENANT DEATHS APARTMENT OWNERS AGREE TO SELL ALL PROPERTIES AFTER CARBON MONOXIDE POISONS A FAMILY

The owners of a Back of the Yards three-flat where a single motherand her two daughters died of carbon monoxide poisoning have agreedto sell their seven properties, give the proceeds to the victims'family and never again own or manage rental property in Chicago,under an unprecedented settlement disclosed Friday.

"I'm overwhelmed. It's the first time in the city's history thatthey've done something like this," said Michael Robb, 28, whose twinsister, Anna, and her two daughters-Elizabeth, 9, and Erica, 8-diedof carbon monoxide poisoning Jan. 23 in a four-bedroom apartment at4542 S. Wood.

"I just hope there's a stand being made here against landlords whoare not following the city code. . . . There are other women who havekids like my sister who are a step away from tragedy because ofimproper living conditions. It's waiting to happen again."

Salomon and Marie Guzman agreed to the extraordinary terms aftercity inspectors uncovered 387 building code violations at thecouple's seven properties that would have cost $30,000 per buildingto fix.

They ranged from broken plaster, stairways and plumbing fixturesto shoddy porches, hanging electric wires and defective windows.Fifty-two of the violations were found at the Wood Street buildingwhere the Robb family died of carbon monoxide poisoning from a 1950sheater behind the bedroom wall.

"There were no other options for them. They have seven properties.They don't have the money to get them up to code, and they can't getthe financing because the city's case liened all the properties,"said Nishay Sanan, an attorney for the Guzmans.

The Chicago Sun-Times reported earlier this year that policebelieve there were no carbon monoxide detectors in the Robbs'apartment, and that the detectors were installed afterward by theGuzmans to cover their tracks.

Sanan disagreed with those findings, insisting there were "workingcarbon monoxide detectors" in the apartment before the deaths. Theissue of when detectors were installed is expected to be theprincipal focus of a pending civil lawsuit against the Guzmans.

The settlement marks the first time in Housing Court history thatthe city has required a landlord to sell all Chicago properites.

"I saw the picture of the mother and the two daughters after theydied. They didn't have a lot in the world," senior counsel JudyFrydland said. "They only had each other, and they were hit with thistragedy. Their lives are over.

"It just struck me that the best thing that could happen for thecitizens of Chicago is that (the Guzmans) get out of town and not dobusiness here. The city doesn't want landlords like this who putpeople's lives in jeopardy."

Six of the properties have already been sold and $200,000 placedinto an escrow account for the victims' family. Insurance proceedsfrom a fire at the seventh building are expected to add as much as$50,000 to the fund.

Asked why the Guzmans agreed never to be landlords in Chicago,Sanan said, "They'd be watched no matter what they did. The citywould be scrutinizing them so much, they realize that it's justbetter to never own property."

Landlords who allow their buildings to fall into dangerous statesof disrepair are routinely slapped with hefty fines and court ordersto correct the violations.

City Hall believes the Guzman case fell into a different category.For one thing, the Wood Street property was not insured, making itdifficult for Michael Robb to seek compensation for his sister'sdeath. And with 387 violations at seven properties, there was noguarantee the tragedy wouldn't be repeated at other buildings.

Michael Robb said he's not concerned about the $250,000 windfallhe stands to gain from the sale of Guzman properties. He's stillpushing for a stalled ordinance that would require the city tolicense absentee landlords and inspect their apartments.

"I'm not focused on being bitter and hating the landlord. I wantsomething done," Robb said.

"My sister and I were twins. We never knew our father. We wereseparated at 13 when our mother passed away. She was in Princeton,Ill. I was in Chicago. We came back together as adults. We started toreally get to know each other again in the past five or six years andthen, this happened. She was all the family I had."

Moore leads No. 3 Boise State past Wyoming, 51-6

LARAMIE, Wyo. (AP) — The Boise State Broncos showing off their talent against Wyoming sat just fine with coach Chris Petersen.

Showing up the Cowboys, though, simply wasn't acceptable.

Petersen sat standout receiver Austin Pettis for much of the game after he somersaulted into the end zone during the third-ranked Broncos' 51-6 rout of Wyoming on Saturday night.

Respectfulness is just as important to Petersen as rankings.

"There's a right way to do it and a wrong way," Petersen said. "We'll live and learn. Message sent."

That was about the only blemish on the Broncos' performance. They were efficient and effective all night.

Kellen Moore threw for 370 yards and two touchdowns and Boise State's defense forced three turnovers as the Broncos extended their winning streak to 16.

The Broncos (2-0) showed no signs of rust after a 12-day rest, piling up 648 total yards. They scored 37 straight points to begin the game, allowing Moore & Co. to watch the final quarter from the sideline.

This time, their fast start held up. That's contrary to the season-opening game against Virginia Tech when the Hokies came back from a 17-point deficit and the Broncos needed a late drive to pull out a 33-30 win.

"We didn't want to go out and not do anything in the second half," Petersen said. "That's so typical of teams sometimes — if you get a big lead to kind of trip all over yourself. We really didn't want to do that."

Moore, a Heisman hopeful, led the Broncos offense, spreading around the wealth as he threw long TD passes to both Pettis and Titus Young.

Young had 94 yards on four catches, hauling in a 49-yard pass as he simply flew past Wyoming (1-2).

Pettis finished with three catches for 88 yards, including a 58-yard TD reception on a flea-flicker in which he punctuated the score by somersaulting into the end zone, drawing a penalty.

He only played basically on special teams after his first-quarter flip.

Doug Martin finished with 105 yards and a touchdown and defensive lineman Shea McClellin added another score by pouncing on the football in the end zone.

The Boise State defense came up big all night, holding the Cowboys to minus-21 yards rushing and 135 total yards. The team put constant pressure on quarterback Austyn Carta-Samuels, picking off two of his passes.

Carta-Samuels got the Cowboys on the board in the third quarter when he connected with fullback Greg Saydjari on a 35-yard TD, the result of a breakdown in the Broncos' secondary.

While the Broncos were idle, they dropped seven of their eight first-place votes. Virginia Tech's loss to lower-tier James Madison didn't help, tainting the Broncos' big win.

Boise State has been waiting all week for another chance to show the team is worthy of the national title talk.

The Broncos know to get back into the conversation they can't just win, they have to win convincingly.

And they can't just look good — they have to look spectacular.

This helped their cause.

"The style points aren't for the country, they're for us," Moore said. "We're able to execute the way we wanted to. You still have to come out in the second half and get that momentum going."

Boise State could've scored more, but had a long punt return called back and three drives stall out inside Wyoming's territory, leading to three field goals from Kyle Brotzman.

"Boise State looked the part of a top-ranked team," Wyoming coach Dave Christensen said. "They were everything they were built up to be."

The danger heading into this game for the Broncos was glancing ahead. But Boise State's concentration was squarely on Wyoming, even with a matchup against No. 25 Oregon State looming next week. The Beavers held off Louisville, 35-28, earlier in the day.

That game will have a national audience, with ESPN's GameDay hosting from Boise, Idaho.

"About time," Petersen said.

As for all those questions about Boise State's validity as a national contender resurfacing again, Petersen said his team can handle it.

"We don't listen," Petersen said, grinning. "We're used to it."

The Broncos resorted to gadgetry to score their first offensive touchdown as Moore handed the ball off to D.J. Harper, who then flipped it back to Moore.

With the Wyoming defense taking the bait, Moore hit Pettis in stride.

Moore watched the play from his back after taking a hit, throwing his hands up in the air as Pettis somersaulted into the end zone.

Before the game, Wyoming held a moment of silence to honor freshman linebacker Ruben Narcisse, who was killed in a car accident in Colorado on Sept. 6.

The team handed out 5,000 T-shirts with "Ruben Narcisse, Always a Cowboy" printed on it and wore decals with his initials on their helmets.

Wednesday, March 7, 2012

CYCLING Grafton Cycle Club Jye Reardon is back in the... [Derived headline]

CYCLING

Grafton Cycle Club

Jye Reardon is back in the winner's list.

Despite the Saturday morning handicap course at Trenayr beingaffected by the recent heavy rain and river flooding, The club heldits usual race over a modified course.

Jye Reardon rode a tactical race to take a fine win from a fast-finishing Shaun Baxter, with last week's winner, Matt White a handythird. Shaun also won the "fastest time" prize, having started withother back markers Dion Wilkes and Matt White.

Jye had started with Anthony Wall, who still leads the SummerComp Yellow Jersey competition, three minutes ahead of the scratchbunch. Jye and Anthony worked well, picking up Kelsey Wilkes andAndrew Weatherstone just after the final turn at the end of TrenayrRd.

This group headed for home, which was to be back up the shortsharp hill and around the corner, with hardly a look behind to seewhat was happening.

They would have seen Garry Reardon and Tony Brindle, comparingtheir riding diaries, but working intelligently to hold off thescratch bunch.

However, Matt White, in a truly purple patch, led out the chaseback up the hill where Garry and Tony were irreverently passed andleft, before swinging for the short run home.

Jye had, however, sensed that his little group was not doingenough to hold off the backmarkers and he attacked alone to make hissuccessful bid for victory.

Anthony Wall held on for fourth. He also held onto the yellowjersey and seems quite comfortable with it. Kelsey Wilkes, also acontender for the yellow jersey, finished in fifth.

FOOTBALL

Northern NSW referee Tanya de Boer recently received a FIFA badgeas an Assistant Referee which will allow her to run lines oninternational games.

News of the accomplishment came just days before Christmas and at28 years of age de Boer is one of just three Australian women toreceive the accolade.

"It was a great Christmas present and also a nice acknowledgmentfor the years of hard work and dedication," said de Boer.

Originally from Lismore, de Boer currently lives in Newcastlerefereeing NBN State League and Westfield W-League fixtures, and in2008 became the first female to receive the Football Far North CoastReferee of the Year Award.

Northern NSW Football Female Participation officer Nyssa Suchanowsaid the recognition of de Boer's talent and commitment wastestament to the quality of Northern NSW female referees and some-thing for upcoming referees to aspire to.

"If you're thinking about becoming a referee, or motivated tomove up the ranks, Tanya is a prime example of why you should getout there and go for it," said Suchanow.

"Opportunities are out there and with the support of Northern NSWFootball and your local Zone the possibilities are endless," shesaid.

De Boer encourages other women to become involved in refereeingas it is a rewarding experience.

She also acknowledges the support of Football Far North Coast andNorthern NSW Football.

"It goes to show that there are opportunities for females at thehighest level in a typically male-dominated area."

De Boer is looking forward to officiating overseas and runninglines on bigger games with a different atmosphere and experience.

She now has her sights set on the challenge of making it to thenext level and is working towards a place on the Asian FootballConfederation (AFC) Elite Panel.

HOCKEY

MEN'S VETS

Grafton men's Veterans Hockey switch into training mode thisSunday with the Over-55s commencing training for the NSW StateChampionships to be held at the Sydney Olympic Hockey Centrecommencing March 30.

Training is at the Grafton Hockey Centre commencing at 5.30pm.The following players have been selected to represent Grafton atthese championships and attendance at training this Sunday iscompulsory.

Please contact Alf Groves or Ken Davison if you are unavailable -Allan Crouch, Bill Johnston, Ken Davison, Wayne Conyard, DavidMunns, Alf Groves, Gary Marshall, Stuart Hancock, Terry Fischer,Owen Hindmarsh, Frank Petty, Dennis Greensill, Paul Schofield, TerryDavis, Vic Wunderlich, Greg Brotherson and Barry Livermore. Coach isKerry Wilsmore and manager Terry Daly.

Training for the over-50s commences Sunday, February 19. Over-50s State Championships will be held at Goulburn commencing April27.

The over-45s championships are at Illawarra on May 25, the over-40s at Newcastle on June 29 and the over-35s at Shoalhaven on July27.

For further information on training times etc please contactPeter Gibbons or Alf Groves.

SHOOTING

Grafton Rifle Club

A field of 10 shooters lined up from the 60m mark on January 28.

The conditions were wet and rainy.

Top off rifle was Liza Georgelin 95 (with 6), second was RobDurrington 84 (with 1), third was Justin Georgelin with 82(with 4).

Handicap scores as follows:

B Grade:

Liza Georgelin 100, Lindsay Cole 99.8, Justin Georgelin 98.4,Robert Durrington 96.8.

C Grade:

Matt Bloomer 92.4, Craig Nott 89.6, Dean Georgelin 88.2, LukeBloomer 87, John Bloomer 67.8, Glen McPhillips 61.2.

Next week is 300 yards Field Class followed by Service Rifle.

The range is located on Trenayr Rd opposite Koppers Logs. Turnoff at the Blue Goose and turn right just past the Red Lane turn-off. New shooters of all ages are welcome.

The range is open from 8.15am on Saturdays for set-up withshooting commencing at 9am.

Sign-on times are from 8.30 to 9am. If you arrive late, you maynot get a spot.

SURF LIFE SAVING

YAMBA

Yamba SLSC members Hugh Dougherty was 4th and Alyce Bennett 20thin the fourth round of the Kellogs Nutri-Grain ironman series inhot, choppy and windy conditions in Perth on Sunday.

The event was held between Scarborough and Cottlesloe beacheswith the men racing over 22.8kms with out-and-back double board,ski, swim and run legs and the women over 11.2km with single board,ski, swim and run legs.

Hugh, who is now 11th overall, was up with the leaders throughoutthe race and finished strongly, while Alyce, now 14th overall,started well but suffered badly from cramps.

Both will be aiming to improving their standings in the comingrounds at Coolum on February 12 and Noosa on February 19.

There were no nipper activities at Turners Beach on Sunday due tothe weather and sea conditions.

At this stage the Far North Coast branch titles at Turners thisSaturday and Sunday February 4 and 5 are still on with a finaldecision later this week.

Plenty of helpers for the BBQ, work party to set up and pack upthe beach and many other jobs are needed. Contact Kerri Wunderlichon 0400 271 168 to volunteer.

There will be no nipper activities when the Far North Coastsenior titles are held at Main Beach on February 19, but normalSunday nipper activities will be at Main Beach on February 12 andMarch 4.

The nippers club championship day with flag, sprint, swim andboard events is on Sunday, February 26.

Sunday, March 11 will be the last nippers day and thepresentations for the 2011/12 season with fun activities from 9am-10.3am, presentation from 10.45 and a free sausage sizzle and drinksfor the nippers.

The weather and sea conditions dampened the Australia Daycelebrations on Main Beach with only a few hardy patrol members andassociates enjoying a BBQ sausage and a stubby.

The 200 club main prize went to Ray O'Brien and Geoff Graysonwith minor draws to Peter James, Grant Bennett, Scott Morschel,Nigel Scott, Peter Fahey, Sarah Scott, Mick Smith, Ron Bell, CliffLowien, Geoff Schaeffer, Steve Casson, Denise Gillies, Evan Lewis,Chris Dougherty and Trevor Gorman.

The inclement weather also deferred the sale of raffle ticketsfor the Havaiana king-size inflatable thongs which have been donatedby the Yamba Chamber of Commerce and the Aston Motel with allproceeds going to the Yamba SLSC

nippers.

Tickets will now be sold during the Far North Coast branch nippertitles at Turners Beach this Saturday and Sunday.

Training co-ordinator Kim Morgans (6646-2823 -kmorgans5@bigpond.com) is taking names for surf rescue certificatecandidates (13-14-year-olds) and for bronze medallion candidates tocommence training in February

There is also board training with club captain Joe Dougherty atMain Beach on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 5.30pm and Saturdays at 8amand nipper board training with Andrew Morris and Tony McFarlane onSunday 8am-9am.

Other coming events are Allphones NSW nipper titles are on March3 and 4 and the Allphones NSW open titles on March 10 and 11, bothat Kingscliff, the Queensland titles at Kurrawa on March 17 and 18and the Australian titles at Kurrawa March 26 to April 1.

The 2011/12 patrol season ends on Anzac Day April 25.

The Yamba SLSC main club 2011-12 sponsors are Clarence ValleyCouncil, Elders Real Estate Yamba, Yamba Golf & Country Club, YambaBowling Club, Grafton District Services Club, Yamba Shores Tavern,Westlawn Finance, Nortec, Coastal Views, Daily Examiner, ClarenceValley Review, Radio 2GF, Yellowtail Wines and Coopers Brewery.

The Yamba SLSC 2011-12 nipper sponsors are All Terrain AccessScaffold & Edge Protection, Jim's Mowing, LJ Hooker Yamba, LowerClarence Funerals, Maclean Motors, Tony McFarlane Builder, YambaFlorist, Yamba Physiotherapy, Maclean Variety Meats, MelayIndependent Floors, Fairways Restaurant Yamba Golf & Country Cluband Signcraft Design.

Registration for all membership categories, including nippers,can be made online via the web site www.lifesavingonline.com.au, atElders Real Estate, Coldstream St during office hours or at theclubhouse during January on Tuesday and Thursday 9am-1.30pm.

The office number is 6646-2463, email: office@yambaslsc.com.auand the website - www.yambaslsc.com.au - has all the current clubinformation.

The weekly golf club raffles with 33 terrific meat trays fromYamba Fair Butchery are on this Saturday, February 4 with Greg andNicole Don, Kerry and Trish Pidcock selling tickets from 5.30pm withthe draw from 6.30pm.

Patrols this weekend are:

Saturday February 4 9am-1pm - Patrol 10: Andrew Morris (c), JoeFahey, Darby Fahey, Harry Fahey, Jake Pitkin, Barney Howard, KiahBennett, Kelsey Wilkes, Sashelle Aitken.

Saturday February 4 1pm-5pm - Patrol 11: Patrol 11: James Ryan(c), Harrison Spicer (vc), James Butcher, Sam McLennan, CodyCameron, Noah Hodgson, Thomas Smith, Tom Woods, Ethan Durrington.

Sunday February 5 9am-1pm - Patrol 1: James Ryan (c), Ed McGrath(vc), Josh Ryan, Nick Agostino, Matteo Cervella, Reilly Pickering,Sean Leonard, Nick Plummer.

Sunday February 5 1pm-5pm - Patrol 2: Mitch Imeson (c), AbrienDougherty (vc), Daniel Lollback, Mitch Lollback, Josh Lollback,Katie Becker, Jacqui Wright, Cathy Felmingham, Deborah Morfett.

TAB DIVS

GOULBURN GALLOP

Race 1: 1 6 12. Win $3.90 place $1.60 $1.30 $2.60. Q: $4.70. E:$16.10. Duets: 1-6: $3.10, 1-12: $6.30, 6-12: $4.50. T: $79.80.First 4: 1-6-12-8: $574.90. Sub: 6. Scr: 2,9.

Race 2: 2 4 5. Win $3.40 place $1.20 $1.70 $1.70. Q: $6.50. E:$12.20. Duets: 2-4: $3.00, 2-5: $1.90, 4-5: $6.50. T: $41.00. D:$9.50. First 4: 2-4-5-3: $126.80. Sub: NSR. All Started.

Race 3: 4 9 5. Win $1.80 place $1.04 $6.70 $1.70. Q: $30.30. E:$61.10. Duets: 4-9: $13.40, 4-5: $2.70, 9-5: $31.90. T: $261.10. D:$6.20. First 4: 4-9-5-13: $2,601.80. Sub: 4. Scr: 10,12.

Race 4: 6 13 4. Win $7.80 place $2.40 $2.60 $3.90. Q: $24.90. E:$51.20. Duets: 6-13: $11.00, 6-4: $6.70, 13-4: $23.10. T: $347.90.D: $15.60. First 4: 6-13-4-12: $1,492.70. Sub: 12. Scr: 7.

Race 5: 6 1 3. Win $4.60 place $2.10 $2.60 $1.80. Q: $15.10. E:$25.10. Duets: 6-1: $7.00, 6-3: $4.00, 1-3: $5.00. T: $87.00. D:$46.90. First 4: 6-1-3-2: $380.50. Sub: 3. Scr: 9.

Race 6: 3 7 5. Win $11.50 place $2.80 $1.50 $7.10. Q: $12.70. E:$51.40. Duets: 3-7: $7.40, 3-5: $28.20, 7-5: $15.20. T: $498.50. D:$62.80. First 4: 3-7-5-10: $3,520.80. Sub: 7. Scr: 2,8,9.

Race 7: 16 8 1. Win $9.80 place $3.40 $2.90 $3.90. Q: $45.60. E:$120.80. Duets: 16-8: $13.50, 16-1: $19.00, 8-1: $17.90. T: $946.80.D: $236.00. First 4: 16-8-1-14: $6,605.80. Sub: 14. Scr:5,9,11,15(L).

Race 8: 1 3 2. Win $4.70 place $2.00 $1.70 $6.10. Q: $8.90. E:$18.00. Duets: 1-3: $4.20, 1-2: $26.80, 3-2: $31.40. T: $407.50. D:$79.30. First 4: 1-3-2-13: $3,911.10. Sub: 3. Scr: 15.

NSW TAB DAILY DOUBLE on races 6 and 8: Laughing Out Loud (3)--Another Legend (1) $44.60. Subs: 7,3.

NSW TAB QUADDIE on races 5,6,7,8: (6)(3)(16)(1): $11,788.20.Subs: 3,7,14,3.

SCONE GALLOPS

Scone Gallop NSW TAB Divs 1-7 Monday Scone Gallop NSW TAB DIVS 1-7 SCONE GALLOP

NSW TAB DIVS FOR $1.00

Race 1: 1 6 5. Win $2.30 place $1.40 $1.20 NTD. Q: $2.10. E:$3.80. T: $10.10. First 4: 1-6-5-2: $25.80. Sub: 6. Scr: 8.

Race 2: 1 9 5. Win $2.00 place $1.30 $4.50 $1.30. Q: $28.60. E:$49.10. Duets: 1-9: $12.20, 1-5: $2.10, 9-5: $20.90. T: $164.20. D:$4.50. First 4: 1-9-5-4: $414.40. Sub: 1. Scr: 8.

Race 3: 5 4 3. Win $15.50 place $6.20 $1.20 NTD. Q: $14.00. E:$24.40. T: $67.00. D: $39.10. First 4: 5-4-3-6: $265.00. Sub: 4.Scr: 1,2.

Race 4: 6 2 10. Win $4.00 place $1.50 $9.10 $3.90. Q: $65.80. E:$141.60. Duets: 6-2: $31.30, 6-10: $6.60, 2-10: $78.30. T:$1,279.60. D: $45.70. First 4: 6-2-10-13: $8,126.60. Sub: 6. Scr:4,11,17,18.

Race 5: 1 8 5. Win $1.70 place $1.30 $2.60 NTD. Q: $5.20. E:$9.10. T: $21.30. D: $9.50. First 4: 1-8-5-2: $42.70. Sub: 1. Scr:3,4,6.

Race 6: 7 5 3. Win $6.30 place $2.00 $2.20 $1.40. Q: $22.50. E:$67.00. Duets: 7-5: $6.20, 7-3: $3.60, 5-3: $4.40. T: $105.60. D:$17.80. First 4: 7-5-3-10: $2,147.00. Sub: NSR. All Started.

Race 7: 9 3 8. Win $7.50 place $2.60 $8.20 $2.80. Q: $237.80. E:$582.30. Duets: 9-3: $20.80, 9-8: $11.60, 3-8: $101.50. T:$4,085.60. D: $88.80. First 4: 9-3-8-1: $17,071.70. Sub: 1. Scr: 11.

NSW TAB DAILY DOUBLE on races 5 and 7: Winning Review (1)--Ruling Class (9) $34.10. Subs: 1,1.

NSW TAB QUADDIE on races 4,5,6,7: (6)(1)(7)(9): $813.10. Subs:6,1,NSR,1.

CYCLING Grafton Cycle Club Jye Reardon is back in the... [Derived headline]

CYCLING

Grafton Cycle Club

Jye Reardon is back in the winner's list.

Despite the Saturday morning handicap course at Trenayr beingaffected by the recent heavy rain and river flooding, The club heldits usual race over a modified course.

Jye Reardon rode a tactical race to take a fine win from a fast-finishing Shaun Baxter, with last week's winner, Matt White a handythird. Shaun also won the "fastest time" prize, having started withother back markers Dion Wilkes and Matt White.

Jye had started with Anthony Wall, who still leads the SummerComp Yellow Jersey competition, three minutes ahead of the scratchbunch. Jye and Anthony worked well, picking up Kelsey Wilkes andAndrew Weatherstone just after the final turn at the end of TrenayrRd.

This group headed for home, which was to be back up the shortsharp hill and around the corner, with hardly a look behind to seewhat was happening.

They would have seen Garry Reardon and Tony Brindle, comparingtheir riding diaries, but working intelligently to hold off thescratch bunch.

However, Matt White, in a truly purple patch, led out the chaseback up the hill where Garry and Tony were irreverently passed andleft, before swinging for the short run home.

Jye had, however, sensed that his little group was not doingenough to hold off the backmarkers and he attacked alone to make hissuccessful bid for victory.

Anthony Wall held on for fourth. He also held onto the yellowjersey and seems quite comfortable with it. Kelsey Wilkes, also acontender for the yellow jersey, finished in fifth.

FOOTBALL

Northern NSW referee Tanya de Boer recently received a FIFA badgeas an Assistant Referee which will allow her to run lines oninternational games.

News of the accomplishment came just days before Christmas and at28 years of age de Boer is one of just three Australian women toreceive the accolade.

"It was a great Christmas present and also a nice acknowledgmentfor the years of hard work and dedication," said de Boer.

Originally from Lismore, de Boer currently lives in Newcastlerefereeing NBN State League and Westfield W-League fixtures, and in2008 became the first female to receive the Football Far North CoastReferee of the Year Award.

Northern NSW Football Female Participation officer Nyssa Suchanowsaid the recognition of de Boer's talent and commitment wastestament to the quality of Northern NSW female referees and some-thing for upcoming referees to aspire to.

"If you're thinking about becoming a referee, or motivated tomove up the ranks, Tanya is a prime example of why you should getout there and go for it," said Suchanow.

"Opportunities are out there and with the support of Northern NSWFootball and your local Zone the possibilities are endless," shesaid.

De Boer encourages other women to become involved in refereeingas it is a rewarding experience.

She also acknowledges the support of Football Far North Coast andNorthern NSW Football.

"It goes to show that there are opportunities for females at thehighest level in a typically male-dominated area."

De Boer is looking forward to officiating overseas and runninglines on bigger games with a different atmosphere and experience.

She now has her sights set on the challenge of making it to thenext level and is working towards a place on the Asian FootballConfederation (AFC) Elite Panel.

HOCKEY

MEN'S VETS

Grafton men's Veterans Hockey switch into training mode thisSunday with the Over-55s commencing training for the NSW StateChampionships to be held at the Sydney Olympic Hockey Centrecommencing March 30.

Training is at the Grafton Hockey Centre commencing at 5.30pm.The following players have been selected to represent Grafton atthese championships and attendance at training this Sunday iscompulsory.

Please contact Alf Groves or Ken Davison if you are unavailable -Allan Crouch, Bill Johnston, Ken Davison, Wayne Conyard, DavidMunns, Alf Groves, Gary Marshall, Stuart Hancock, Terry Fischer,Owen Hindmarsh, Frank Petty, Dennis Greensill, Paul Schofield, TerryDavis, Vic Wunderlich, Greg Brotherson and Barry Livermore. Coach isKerry Wilsmore and manager Terry Daly.

Training for the over-50s commences Sunday, February 19. Over-50s State Championships will be held at Goulburn commencing April27.

The over-45s championships are at Illawarra on May 25, the over-40s at Newcastle on June 29 and the over-35s at Shoalhaven on July27.

For further information on training times etc please contactPeter Gibbons or Alf Groves.

SHOOTING

Grafton Rifle Club

A field of 10 shooters lined up from the 60m mark on January 28.

The conditions were wet and rainy.

Top off rifle was Liza Georgelin 95 (with 6), second was RobDurrington 84 (with 1), third was Justin Georgelin with 82(with 4).

Handicap scores as follows:

B Grade:

Liza Georgelin 100, Lindsay Cole 99.8, Justin Georgelin 98.4,Robert Durrington 96.8.

C Grade:

Matt Bloomer 92.4, Craig Nott 89.6, Dean Georgelin 88.2, LukeBloomer 87, John Bloomer 67.8, Glen McPhillips 61.2.

Next week is 300 yards Field Class followed by Service Rifle.

The range is located on Trenayr Rd opposite Koppers Logs. Turnoff at the Blue Goose and turn right just past the Red Lane turn-off. New shooters of all ages are welcome.

The range is open from 8.15am on Saturdays for set-up withshooting commencing at 9am.

Sign-on times are from 8.30 to 9am. If you arrive late, you maynot get a spot.

SURF LIFE SAVING

YAMBA

Yamba SLSC members Hugh Dougherty was 4th and Alyce Bennett 20thin the fourth round of the Kellogs Nutri-Grain ironman series inhot, choppy and windy conditions in Perth on Sunday.

The event was held between Scarborough and Cottlesloe beacheswith the men racing over 22.8kms with out-and-back double board,ski, swim and run legs and the women over 11.2km with single board,ski, swim and run legs.

Hugh, who is now 11th overall, was up with the leaders throughoutthe race and finished strongly, while Alyce, now 14th overall,started well but suffered badly from cramps.

Both will be aiming to improving their standings in the comingrounds at Coolum on February 12 and Noosa on February 19.

There were no nipper activities at Turners Beach on Sunday due tothe weather and sea conditions.

At this stage the Far North Coast branch titles at Turners thisSaturday and Sunday February 4 and 5 are still on with a finaldecision later this week.

Plenty of helpers for the BBQ, work party to set up and pack upthe beach and many other jobs are needed. Contact Kerri Wunderlichon 0400 271 168 to volunteer.

There will be no nipper activities when the Far North Coastsenior titles are held at Main Beach on February 19, but normalSunday nipper activities will be at Main Beach on February 12 andMarch 4.

The nippers club championship day with flag, sprint, swim andboard events is on Sunday, February 26.

Sunday, March 11 will be the last nippers day and thepresentations for the 2011/12 season with fun activities from 9am-10.3am, presentation from 10.45 and a free sausage sizzle and drinksfor the nippers.

The weather and sea conditions dampened the Australia Daycelebrations on Main Beach with only a few hardy patrol members andassociates enjoying a BBQ sausage and a stubby.

The 200 club main prize went to Ray O'Brien and Geoff Graysonwith minor draws to Peter James, Grant Bennett, Scott Morschel,Nigel Scott, Peter Fahey, Sarah Scott, Mick Smith, Ron Bell, CliffLowien, Geoff Schaeffer, Steve Casson, Denise Gillies, Evan Lewis,Chris Dougherty and Trevor Gorman.

The inclement weather also deferred the sale of raffle ticketsfor the Havaiana king-size inflatable thongs which have been donatedby the Yamba Chamber of Commerce and the Aston Motel with allproceeds going to the Yamba SLSC

nippers.

Tickets will now be sold during the Far North Coast branch nippertitles at Turners Beach this Saturday and Sunday.

Training co-ordinator Kim Morgans (6646-2823 -kmorgans5@bigpond.com) is taking names for surf rescue certificatecandidates (13-14-year-olds) and for bronze medallion candidates tocommence training in February

There is also board training with club captain Joe Dougherty atMain Beach on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 5.30pm and Saturdays at 8amand nipper board training with Andrew Morris and Tony McFarlane onSunday 8am-9am.

Other coming events are Allphones NSW nipper titles are on March3 and 4 and the Allphones NSW open titles on March 10 and 11, bothat Kingscliff, the Queensland titles at Kurrawa on March 17 and 18and the Australian titles at Kurrawa March 26 to April 1.

The 2011/12 patrol season ends on Anzac Day April 25.

The Yamba SLSC main club 2011-12 sponsors are Clarence ValleyCouncil, Elders Real Estate Yamba, Yamba Golf & Country Club, YambaBowling Club, Grafton District Services Club, Yamba Shores Tavern,Westlawn Finance, Nortec, Coastal Views, Daily Examiner, ClarenceValley Review, Radio 2GF, Yellowtail Wines and Coopers Brewery.

The Yamba SLSC 2011-12 nipper sponsors are All Terrain AccessScaffold & Edge Protection, Jim's Mowing, LJ Hooker Yamba, LowerClarence Funerals, Maclean Motors, Tony McFarlane Builder, YambaFlorist, Yamba Physiotherapy, Maclean Variety Meats, MelayIndependent Floors, Fairways Restaurant Yamba Golf & Country Cluband Signcraft Design.

Registration for all membership categories, including nippers,can be made online via the web site www.lifesavingonline.com.au, atElders Real Estate, Coldstream St during office hours or at theclubhouse during January on Tuesday and Thursday 9am-1.30pm.

The office number is 6646-2463, email: office@yambaslsc.com.auand the website - www.yambaslsc.com.au - has all the current clubinformation.

The weekly golf club raffles with 33 terrific meat trays fromYamba Fair Butchery are on this Saturday, February 4 with Greg andNicole Don, Kerry and Trish Pidcock selling tickets from 5.30pm withthe draw from 6.30pm.

Patrols this weekend are:

Saturday February 4 9am-1pm - Patrol 10: Andrew Morris (c), JoeFahey, Darby Fahey, Harry Fahey, Jake Pitkin, Barney Howard, KiahBennett, Kelsey Wilkes, Sashelle Aitken.

Saturday February 4 1pm-5pm - Patrol 11: Patrol 11: James Ryan(c), Harrison Spicer (vc), James Butcher, Sam McLennan, CodyCameron, Noah Hodgson, Thomas Smith, Tom Woods, Ethan Durrington.

Sunday February 5 9am-1pm - Patrol 1: James Ryan (c), Ed McGrath(vc), Josh Ryan, Nick Agostino, Matteo Cervella, Reilly Pickering,Sean Leonard, Nick Plummer.

Sunday February 5 1pm-5pm - Patrol 2: Mitch Imeson (c), AbrienDougherty (vc), Daniel Lollback, Mitch Lollback, Josh Lollback,Katie Becker, Jacqui Wright, Cathy Felmingham, Deborah Morfett.

TAB DIVS

GOULBURN GALLOP

Race 1: 1 6 12. Win $3.90 place $1.60 $1.30 $2.60. Q: $4.70. E:$16.10. Duets: 1-6: $3.10, 1-12: $6.30, 6-12: $4.50. T: $79.80.First 4: 1-6-12-8: $574.90. Sub: 6. Scr: 2,9.

Race 2: 2 4 5. Win $3.40 place $1.20 $1.70 $1.70. Q: $6.50. E:$12.20. Duets: 2-4: $3.00, 2-5: $1.90, 4-5: $6.50. T: $41.00. D:$9.50. First 4: 2-4-5-3: $126.80. Sub: NSR. All Started.

Race 3: 4 9 5. Win $1.80 place $1.04 $6.70 $1.70. Q: $30.30. E:$61.10. Duets: 4-9: $13.40, 4-5: $2.70, 9-5: $31.90. T: $261.10. D:$6.20. First 4: 4-9-5-13: $2,601.80. Sub: 4. Scr: 10,12.

Race 4: 6 13 4. Win $7.80 place $2.40 $2.60 $3.90. Q: $24.90. E:$51.20. Duets: 6-13: $11.00, 6-4: $6.70, 13-4: $23.10. T: $347.90.D: $15.60. First 4: 6-13-4-12: $1,492.70. Sub: 12. Scr: 7.

Race 5: 6 1 3. Win $4.60 place $2.10 $2.60 $1.80. Q: $15.10. E:$25.10. Duets: 6-1: $7.00, 6-3: $4.00, 1-3: $5.00. T: $87.00. D:$46.90. First 4: 6-1-3-2: $380.50. Sub: 3. Scr: 9.

Race 6: 3 7 5. Win $11.50 place $2.80 $1.50 $7.10. Q: $12.70. E:$51.40. Duets: 3-7: $7.40, 3-5: $28.20, 7-5: $15.20. T: $498.50. D:$62.80. First 4: 3-7-5-10: $3,520.80. Sub: 7. Scr: 2,8,9.

Race 7: 16 8 1. Win $9.80 place $3.40 $2.90 $3.90. Q: $45.60. E:$120.80. Duets: 16-8: $13.50, 16-1: $19.00, 8-1: $17.90. T: $946.80.D: $236.00. First 4: 16-8-1-14: $6,605.80. Sub: 14. Scr:5,9,11,15(L).

Race 8: 1 3 2. Win $4.70 place $2.00 $1.70 $6.10. Q: $8.90. E:$18.00. Duets: 1-3: $4.20, 1-2: $26.80, 3-2: $31.40. T: $407.50. D:$79.30. First 4: 1-3-2-13: $3,911.10. Sub: 3. Scr: 15.

NSW TAB DAILY DOUBLE on races 6 and 8: Laughing Out Loud (3)--Another Legend (1) $44.60. Subs: 7,3.

NSW TAB QUADDIE on races 5,6,7,8: (6)(3)(16)(1): $11,788.20.Subs: 3,7,14,3.

SCONE GALLOPS

Scone Gallop NSW TAB Divs 1-7 Monday Scone Gallop NSW TAB DIVS 1-7 SCONE GALLOP

NSW TAB DIVS FOR $1.00

Race 1: 1 6 5. Win $2.30 place $1.40 $1.20 NTD. Q: $2.10. E:$3.80. T: $10.10. First 4: 1-6-5-2: $25.80. Sub: 6. Scr: 8.

Race 2: 1 9 5. Win $2.00 place $1.30 $4.50 $1.30. Q: $28.60. E:$49.10. Duets: 1-9: $12.20, 1-5: $2.10, 9-5: $20.90. T: $164.20. D:$4.50. First 4: 1-9-5-4: $414.40. Sub: 1. Scr: 8.

Race 3: 5 4 3. Win $15.50 place $6.20 $1.20 NTD. Q: $14.00. E:$24.40. T: $67.00. D: $39.10. First 4: 5-4-3-6: $265.00. Sub: 4.Scr: 1,2.

Race 4: 6 2 10. Win $4.00 place $1.50 $9.10 $3.90. Q: $65.80. E:$141.60. Duets: 6-2: $31.30, 6-10: $6.60, 2-10: $78.30. T:$1,279.60. D: $45.70. First 4: 6-2-10-13: $8,126.60. Sub: 6. Scr:4,11,17,18.

Race 5: 1 8 5. Win $1.70 place $1.30 $2.60 NTD. Q: $5.20. E:$9.10. T: $21.30. D: $9.50. First 4: 1-8-5-2: $42.70. Sub: 1. Scr:3,4,6.

Race 6: 7 5 3. Win $6.30 place $2.00 $2.20 $1.40. Q: $22.50. E:$67.00. Duets: 7-5: $6.20, 7-3: $3.60, 5-3: $4.40. T: $105.60. D:$17.80. First 4: 7-5-3-10: $2,147.00. Sub: NSR. All Started.

Race 7: 9 3 8. Win $7.50 place $2.60 $8.20 $2.80. Q: $237.80. E:$582.30. Duets: 9-3: $20.80, 9-8: $11.60, 3-8: $101.50. T:$4,085.60. D: $88.80. First 4: 9-3-8-1: $17,071.70. Sub: 1. Scr: 11.

NSW TAB DAILY DOUBLE on races 5 and 7: Winning Review (1)--Ruling Class (9) $34.10. Subs: 1,1.

NSW TAB QUADDIE on races 4,5,6,7: (6)(1)(7)(9): $813.10. Subs:6,1,NSR,1.