stjoelive.com | Stories for July 2008

Allen skips scrimmage against Kansas City

RIVER FALLS, Wis. - Adrian Peterson took a short pass and dodged several tacklers on his way to the end zone, bringing appreciative cheers from Minnesota Vikings fans. Larry Johnson showed the same nasty burst that took him to the Pro Bowl in 2005 and '06, giving Kansas City fans plenty to be happy about.

Chiefs try to rebuild their once-great offensive front five

RIVER FALLS, Wis. - It wasn't always this way. Rivals once cast envious eyes upon Kansas City's offensive line. Guards Will Shields and Brian Waters and left tackle Willie Roaf all went to the Pro Bowl in 2004 and '05. Many thought center Casey Wiegmann should have joined them. But last season, with everyone but Waters either retired or let go, one of the league's best offensive lines turned into possibly the worst.

McKinney a leading man

Former Mizzou guard stars in new indie film

ST. LOUIS - All that drama during the Quin Snyder meltdown at Missouri must have rubbed off on Jimmy McKinney. The former guard and sometime scapegoat for the teams' woes during those tumultuous years, while refusing to give up on his dream of someday making it to the NBA, has embarked on a second career in acting. He's the star of a well-received independent film called "Streetballers," in a role that plays to his strengths while somewhat mirroring his life as a kid who made it out of a rough inner-city upbringing.

Bearcats shore up post with transfers

MARYVILLE, Mo. - Northwest Missouri State women's basketball coach Gene Steinmeyer is going the transfer route in an effort to shore up the post position next season. The Bearcats last season rallied late in the campaign to win the MIAA postseason tournament and earn a trip to the South Central Regional with the help of 6-foot senior Mandi Schumacher.

Mustangs owner chomping at bit to get started

Gerson expects to have manager, GM in place by October

He won't even get the keys to Phil Welch Stadium for another month, but Dan Gerson is already hard at work - interviewing potential general managers for the new St. Joe Mustangs. Gerson, the team's owner, said he has been searching for a manager for the team, which will open its inaugural season next May in the Jayhawk League.

Guillen's sacrifice fly lifts Royals past A's in 10th

OAKLAND, Calif. - Jose Guillen had to convince Kansas City Royals manager Trey Hillman to let him stay in the game. It was a good call.

Soap Box Derby exit a matter of inches for St. Joseph's Ball

The Soap Box Derby World Championships came down to about an inch and a half for Jessica Ball.

Speculation on Chiefs camp continues

While the Kansas City Chiefs currently are going through their 18th training camp in River Falls, Wis., speculation continues to swirl about whether it will be their last out-of-state camp - from Kansas City sports talk radio to the Kansas City Star's Chiefs blog.

Flowers vies for cornerback spot opposite family member Surtain

RIVER FALLS, Wis. - With Patrick Surtain on one side and Brandon Flowers on the other, cornerback will be a family affair in Kansas City, and something Flowers can hardly believe. When Flowers was growing up in South Florida, his first cousin married Surtain's brother. About the same time, Surtain became a star cornerback at Miami and the two got to know each other at Christmas parties and other family get-togethers. Surtain started leaving tickets for Flowers to Dolphins games.

Truth in advertising

Keira Knightly says no to digital breast enhancement

Keira Knightly recently told studio execs that she doesn't want her chest to be digitally enhanced for her upcoming film "Duchess." The actress, who boasts an A-cup, was given a C-cup sized chest in promo photos for her film "Arthur."

Royals make it 2 straight in Oakland

OAKLAND, Calif. - John Buck and Mike Aviles hit home runs, Gil Meche allowed five hits over seven innings and the Kansas City Royals won their fourth consecutive road game, beating the fading Oakland Athletics 5-2 on Tuesday night.

Former Chief Thomas set for Hall induction this week

KANSAS CITY - Long after he left school, Emmitt Thomas remained a student. Quick and agile, the undrafted cornerback from tiny Bishop College became a five-time Pro Bowler. His 12 interceptions in 1974 were two shy of the NFL record. His 58 interceptions in a 13-year career are fourth most among cornerbacks and stand as the record for the Kansas City Chiefs.

Chiefs' young owner learning on the job

RIVER FALLS, Wis. - Clark Hunt stands alone on the edge of the practice field in tan shorts and a red golf shirt, looking intently on his Kansas City Chiefs. When Brodie Croyle misfires on a short pass, Hunt takes note. When rookie cornerback Brandon Flowers makes a good play, Hunt watches. At 43, Hunt is the NFL's youngest owner. He graduated No. 1 in his college class, and now he's learning all he can about the football team his father bequeathed him.

Guillen denies internet report he wants out of K.C.

OAKLAND, Calif. - Royals outfielder Jose Guillen denied an online report by ESPNdeportes.com that surfaced Tuesday claiming he wants out of Kansas City because of a fractured relationship with manager Trey Hillman. "This is completely catching me by surprise," Guillen said. "This isn't coming from me. Trey and I are fine right now, and I've never said I wanted out of Kansas City. "This is the team that is paying me a lot of money, and this is where I want to be. I don't know where all of this stuff is coming from. I hate to be put in this situation, and now I look like a bad guy again."

Local district institutes drug testing for activities

Lathrop's move part of larger trend, won't look for steroids

In Brad Colhour's years of collegiate coaching, he's seen the toll that steroids can take on the minds and bodies of his athletes. That's why Lathrop's new drug-testing policy doesn't include performance-enchancing substances and instead will randomly test extracurricular participants for more common and prevalent illegal substances. "I've seen (steroid use). I know what it looks like, and it's just not there," said Colhour, Lathrop's former athletic director and head football coach. "If it were, I would be pushing hard for it."

Panera prepares to break bread

Panera Bread will break bread on Aug. 15. The highly anticipated sandwich and bakery shop will open its doors at 6 a.m. and will officially cut into a six-foot-long baguette at 9:30 a.m.

Lifeguards keep it cool

Having fun and saving lives are all in a day's work

Being a lifeguard is a pretty sweet gig. Sure, you occasionally have to yell at some little kid to stop running, but you also get to soak up the sun and take an occasional dip in the pool. Oh, and there's that whole "saving lives" thing. The point is that lifeguarding mixes fun with responsibility. And the lifeguards at the St. Joseph Aquatic Park wouldn't have it any other way.

Crawford's triple sends Rays past Royals

KANSAS CITY - Carl Crawford's tiebreaking, two-run triple with two outs in the eighth inning sent the Tampa Bay Rays to a 5-3 victory over the Kansas City Royals on Saturday night. Carlos Pena added a home run in the ninth, helping Tampa Bay extend its AL East lead to two games over Boston.

Gonzalez earns presidential praise

RIVER FALLS, Wis. - Saving a man's life has brought Tony Gonzalez praise from the current president and possibly the next one. The Kansas City Chiefs Pro Bowl tight end met Sen. Barack Obama during a campaign stop in California, and the Democratic candidate for President congratulated him for stopping a man from choking to death.

Dorsey signs $51 million contract

RIVER FALLS, Wis. - Glenn Dorsey walked up and shook hands with the man who'd just made him rich. "I promise I'll work hard," said the big defensive tackle, towering over Kansas City Chiefs owner Clark Hunt. "I know you will," Hunt said. "It's great to have you with us."

Plett prepares for Western's self-imposed penalties

Thirty-two days after Missouri Western released its internal investigation into potential improper benefits provided to three women's basketball players, the program's current coach still hasn't received a copy of those findings. But Lynn Plett still has a pretty solid idea of how the university's self-imposed penalties - two years of probation, vacation of all wins from the 2005-06 and 2006-07 seasons and reduction of one scholarship for the 2009-10 campaign - will affect his program.

It's back to school for former Bearcat

Peterson prepares dorm life again - NFL style

Mike Peterson, fresh out of Northwest Missouri State University, is going back to dormitory life. But Peterson, now a rookie free agent for the Green Bay Packers, will do little but sleep at that dormitory at St. Norbert College in Des Pere, Wis., site of the team's training camp, which opens Monday.

Royals let one slide against Rays

Edwin Jackson surpassed his victory total for last season and the Tampa Bay Rays snapped a seven-game road losing streak with a 5-3 victory over the Kansas City Royals on Friday night. The Rays, who moved one game in front of Boston in the AL East, won on the road for the first time since June 29, at Pittsburgh. Jackson (6-7), who was 5-15 last season, did not yield a hit until Billy Butler homered to center with two outs in the fifth.

Western player speaks out about investigation

While Missouri Western awaits the NCAA's response to the Griffons' internal investigation into the women's basketball program, university officials' comments have been guarded and vague at best. In a Friday interview with the News-Press, new Western President Dr. Robert Vartabedian once again reiterated the university's stance that it wouldn't be appropriate for him to speak to any specifics of an ongoing investigation. Western's report, released June 25, indicated that three women's basketball players likely received at least $1,000 in cash from their coaches from 2005-2007.

Northwest Missouri athletes suit up for all-star game

Even though they'll never suit up for Trenton again, Wes Croy's former players haven't received any favorable treatment leading up to the Missouri Lions All-Star Football Game. "Certainly not," Croy said. "I'm probably harder on them than anybody." After a week of strenuous practices, six Trenton graduates will compete for the West team in today's game, slated to begin at 7:30 p.m. at Walton Stadium in Warrensburg - along with a smattering of representatives from across Northwest Missouri. Reigning News-Press Offensive Player of the Year De'Andre Vandevender, who leaves for the University of Northern Iowa in a week and a half, should feel right at home running behind former teammates Kyle Hoyt and Ethan Tabbert - both bound for Missouri Western. Griffon-to-be Mitch Giger, a North Platte grad, adds additional size to a beefy set of blockers.

Local golfer aces $10,000 hole

Before Friday, Tim Woodruff never saw anyone make a hole-in-one. He'd never made one himself. But he's $10,000 wealthier after his first experience with the landmark golfing moment. Woodruff aced hole No. 11 at Moila Country Club's Patio Fundraiser. The hole was designated with the cash prize - plus an extra $1,000 each for the golfer's three playing partners.

Chiefs open camp with disruptions

Top pick unsigned; rain disrupts practice

RIVER FALLS, Wis. - Their most prominent rookie remained a no-show Friday as rain forced the Kansas City Chiefs indoors for their first two practices of their 2008 camp. After going through a 90-minute morning walk-through in the indoors facility Friday morning, the Chiefs managed to get about 30 minutes of work in their afternoon workout. But storm sirens began to blow as a fierce thunderstorm moved into western Wisconsin and chased them back inside. In the meantime, Glenn Dorsey, the 300-pound defensive tackle the Chiefs made the No. 5 overall pick last April, still had not signed a contract, and team president Carl Peterson said he told Dorsey's agent that it was now up to the player's side to restart negotiations.

Dying young. living forever

Why young deceased actors and musicians become cult icons

Last weekend, "The Dark Knight" made history by becoming the film with the largest opening weekend gross ever with $158.4 million. Without a doubt, a large part of that was achieved thanks to the posthumous performance of Heath Ledger as the Joker. Ledger died of a drug overdose in January 2008 at the age of 28. Because of the nature of Ledger's death and his untimely demise, there is a good chance that he, like many actors and musicians who passed away in their prime, could achieve cult status.

Ready to reload

Ricochet plays the Buffalo Bar tonight with a new album on the horizon

It was 12 years ago that Ricochet recorded "Daddy's Money." The song shot up the charts to No. 1 and launched the band into country superstardom. Now, they're re-recording the hit for their new album.

Getting up to speed

Powerpop trio Fastball return to road with new songs and solidarity

Today, Austin, Texas, has become the country's musical mecca for independent and up-and-coming artists. But 10 years ago, an Austin-based powerpop trio Fastball, with members Tony Scalzo (guitar, vocals), Miles Zuniga (guitar, vocals) and Joey Sheffield (drums), were just trying to get one of the tracks off of their second release "All The Pain Money Can Buy" on the radio.

Oneal for real

Love him or hate him, comedian Patrice Oneal is always himself

If you have a television, you've probably seen Patrice Oneal. He has had guest appearances on "The Office" and "Chappelle's Show." He has been on several VH1 specials including "Web Junk 20," a show he hosted for two seasons. He has even dropped in on Fox News's "Hannity and Colmes" a few times. But tonight he won't be in front of a camera. He'll be in front of a microphone doing what he loves.

Live at the Movies 'Step Brothers'

Here is a fact: Writer Adam McKay brings the best out of Will Ferrell. Their first movie, "Anchorman," was a hilarious film full of interesting characters and one-liners. "Talladega Nights" was a solid comedy that showed Ferrell and John C. Reilly were one funny duo. Now, McKay, Ferrell and Reilly have teamed up for the funniest movie of the year.

This is: "Vanessa" by David Norvell

The Shuffle: Remixing a legend

Even after his death in 2003, listeners continue to be fascinated with the songs of country music legend Johnny Cash. A new record featuring the "Man in Black" and his music is scheduled to be released on Oct. 14. But this record will probably make some Cash fans furious.

That game we play: Maybe they're just not that into you

When I was in college, a little book called "He's Just Not That Into You," came out, and revolutionized the way women looked at being rejected by men. "When men want you, they do the work," the book says. "... when men like women, they ask them out." Instead of worrying and over-analyzing and wasting time and energy why a guy didn't call or never asked for a date, women should just realize that's he's just not that into them and move on. It may sound simple, but a lot of women tend to make it more difficult by making up excuses for guys, like "maybe he's really busy at work," or "maybe he just got out of a relationship and isn't ready for something else." I've done it before; we always want to give them the benefit of the doubt (and deny the fact that someone we like wouldn't like us back).

Drink of the week: The Kelly martini

That's so cool: Anti Sleep Driving Alarm

Briefs for July 28, 2008

Calendars for July 25, 2008

Rejoice! Will Ferrell is funny again!

Let's face it, Will Ferrell is a comic genius. I know this because I have seen "Old School." I have seen "Anchorman." I have seen "Talladega Nights." But what has the binge drinking, jazz-flute playing, race car driving son of a gun done for comedy-lovers lately?

Kansas City places Gathright on DL, calls up Maier

KANSAS CITY - The Kansas City Royals placed outfielder Joey Gathright on the 15-day disabled list Thursday with a lingering shoulder injury and recalled outfielder Mitch Maier from Triple-A Omaha. Gathright has been bothered by a bone bruise in his right shoulder this season. He tried taking pain medication after the All-Star break, but the injury didn't improve.

Royals survive close shave with Rays

Meche keeps promise to catcher - a now-bald Buck

KANSAS CITY - Gil Meche promised John Buck he'd pitch a good game if he could shave the catcher's head. Buck lived up to his end of the bargain. He has the shiny dome and razor burns to prove it. Meche followed through, too, though it took a little longer.

Horton's trial pushed back

COLUMBIA, Mo. - Former Missouri basketball player Jason Horton will wait until at least September for his trial on assault charges for a midseason fight outside a downtown nightclub.

Omon adjusting to big-city life as Bills open training camp

Forgive Xavier Omon if he appears just a bit like the country hick who's awed by the big city. The change of scenery is drastic for Omon, the Beatrice, Neb., athlete who set numerous records as a running back at Northwest Missouri State and now finds himself on the eve of training camp with the Buffalo Bills.

The Foo Fighters at Kemper Arena

Dave Grohl and Co. fill arena with brawny rock and tireless energy

It's crazy to imagine that 14 years ago, Dave Grohl, drummer for '90s grunge icons Nirvana, decided to carry on, pick up a guitar and start writing his own alt-rock tunes in the Foo Fighters. It's even crazier to imagine that Grohl's exercise in working out his Nirvana tendencies would turn into Grammy-winning modern rock staples while maintaining unwavering credibility that has gotten them asked to do tribute performances for The Who and sharing the stage with Led Zeppelin's own Jimmy Page and John Paul Jones at Wembley Stadium. The Foo's stopped in KC to perform at Kemper Arena July 19 and brought a big 120-minute plus rock show to a crowd hungry to be pummeled by the group's buff riffs and relentless energy.

City schools compete for good cause

In a race to see who is the most charitable of them all, local high school coaches are competing to see who can sponsor the most Backpack Buddies children.

Chiefs sign 3 players

KANSAS CITY- The Kansas City Chiefs said they agreed to terms on multiyear contracts with rookie cornerback Brandon Flowers and two receivers.

Royally bad: K.C. offense sputters once again

KANSAS CITY- Armando Galarraga was nearly perfect. So was Detroit in sweeping three games from the Royals.

Brett's sticky memory

Royals' Hall of Famer recalls infamous "pine tar" home run 25 years after tirade

George Brett had a Hall of Fame career with the Kansas City Royals that included more than 3,000 hits, batting titles in three decades, an MVP award and a World Series championship. Still, for most baseball fans, two words quickly come to mind when they hear Brett's name: pine tar.

Smaller quarterbacks make big impact in Big 12

Nebraska's Joe Ganz wasn't highly recruited out of high school, told he was too small to play quarterback on the college level. Any other conference, maybe that holds true. Not in the Big 12. As Missouri's Chase Daniel and Kansas' Todd Reesing showed last season, bigger isn't always better, particularly in the Big 12, the conference that gives hope to little guys all across the country.

Missouri, Illinois primed for season-opener

ST. LOUIS - This year's nationally-televised season-opener between Illinois and Missouri will be more than a border war. This season, both teams potentially come into the game with high national rankings. Missouri's 40-34 win last season sent the Tigers on the way to a 12-2 season ending with a win over Arkansas in the Cotton Bowl. At one point late in the season, the Tigers reached No. 1 before losing the Big 12 championship game to Oklahoma.

Gobble sent down after Monday's embarrassment

KANSAS CITY - Royals reliever Jimmy Gobble, who allowed 10 runs in one inning Monday against Detroit, was placed on the 15-day disabled list Tuesday with a stiff lower back. Gobble established a Kansas City franchise record for runs allowed by a reliever in a game. "We don't project this to be anything major, but nonetheless it is affecting his performance," Royals manager Trey Hillman said. "I think it is affecting his performance in relation to what people saw him do last year. I'm glad it is not anything that is projected to be too long of a period of time, hopefully."

Mad Men: Music from the series Vol. 1

The early 1960s were uncomplicated times compared to the multi-tasking, perpetually wired society we find ourselves into today. TV had yet to become risque and music had yet to become angry.

Royals get mauled by Tigers

KANSAS CITY - Miguel Cabrera matched his career high with five hits and six RBIs and Matt Joyce added four hits and five RBIs as the Detroit Tigers beat the Kansas City Royals 19-4 on Monday night.

Campers need not stray far from home

You have the weekend free, just one tank of $4-per-gallon gasoline to burn and a desire to camp that burns even hotter. Take heart, because there are a number of places to camp within an hour or so of your own back yard.

Facebook rolls out new look

After months of development, Facebook has begun to officially roll out the new version of their website.

German's double lifts Royals, 8-7

CHICAGO - Esteban German hit a go-ahead, two-run double in the eighth inning to lead the Kansas City Royals to an 8-7 win over the Chicago White Sox on Sunday.

Go figure: Gas prices, flooding affect camping numbers

Second in a series on camping in Missouri

The June numbers were down, but whether it's the high gas prices or flooding creating lower attendance at Missouri's state parks is not yet clear.

Draw doesn't deter Calloway from dream

Nobody likes a tie.

Nobody wins at Civic: Calloway v. Alexander ends in draw

"The Champion vs. The Contender" ended in a draw on Saturday night.

Campground hosting provides relaxation, excitement

First of a three-part series on camping in Missouri

Through 20 years of outdoors adventures with her now-grown family, Linda Collier always thought there was more to camping than just sitting around.

Butler homers again; Royals win

CHICAGO - Gil Meche shut down a White Sox offense that generated 34 hits in its previous two games, pitching the Kansas City Royals to a 9-1 victory that sliced Chicago's lead in the AL Central to one-half game.

Royals blown away by Chicago's fast start

Greinke surrenders 11 hits in 3 innings

CHICAGO - It was hard to tell that most of the Chicago White Sox had a four-day break. Their batting eyes were sharp and their early approach against Zack Greinke was right on target. Chicago's first eight batters reached Friday night and the White Sox turned seven first-inning singles into six runs in a 9-5 victory over the Kansas City Royals.

Baugher takes aim at race title

Matt Baugher is going to the state capital in search of another title. Baugher, a St. Joseph cyclist, will try to lengthen a string of victories on Sunday in the Missouri State Championship Time Trials in Jefferson City.

BACK IN THE SPOTLIGHT

Television cameras used to be commonplace in Civic Arena

Back then, St. Joseph's reputation preceded its residents. Bill France traveled to a convention in 1983 and even in San Antonio, Texas, people remembered the town television touted as the place Jesse James died along the banks of the Missouri River.

Supreme Court decision gives gun owners historic victory

Law-abiding gun owners in the United States recently experienced a victory unlike any other in the history of the debate over rights granted under the Second Amendment.

Anglers 'get ready to rumble'

What do a bunch of competitive bass anglers who enjoy hanging out together and just can't get enough of chasing big largemouths do for fun? They head to the lake once a month for a little thing they like to call the "Friday Night Hog Fight."

Something's in the air in Atchison

The Amelia Earhart Festival brings a weekend full of fun and entertainment

This year marks the 80th anniversary of Amelia Earhart being the first woman to fly across the Atlantic, so there was no doubt that Atchison would make this year's Amelia Earhart festival a special one. But, boy, are they throwing a bash for the big eight-O.

Live at the Movies 'The Dark Knight'

There are many adjectives that have been used to describe comic-book movies, but unless you're talking about special effects or sound editing, "award-worthy" isn't one of them. "The Dark Knight," however, is probably going to change that.

Two-year toast

Foster's holds its Second Anniversary Bash Saturday

Plenty of bars in St. Joe have some common elements. Televisions for people to watch. Patrons with a cig in one hand and a domestic brew in the other. So when Nathan Karr, owner and operator of Foster's Martini and Wine Bar, opened his non-smoking establishment two years ago with no TVs and pricey martinis, even he wasn't sure the concept would stick around.

Dual-sided sound

O.A.R. tries to show versatility on new album 'All Sides'

If you're walking past a dormitory on practically any American college campus, there's a good chance you will hear the song "That Was A Crazy Game Of Poker" from acoustic rock/reggae jam band O.A.R. (Of A Revolution).

This is: The Tommy Andrews Band

Try it, you'll like it

Deadline approaching for Artscape creative arts camp

When visiting the International Folk Art Museum in Santa Fe, N.M., art educator Mary Helen Stuber was amazed at the ornamental tin work children were creating in a class there. It's a craft the people of Santa Fe developed during the mid-1800s using tin cans brought in by the military.

The Shuffle: Three is the tragic number

In case it hasn't been drilled into your head, the highly-hyped film "The Dark Knight" opens today. Thanks to the successful resurrection of the franchise with 2005's "Batman Begins" and Heath Ledger's posthumous performance as the Joker, the film will undoubtedly rake in big box office bucks.

That game we play: Rejection - is there ever a good way?

Unless you're the absolute best-looking, funniest, smartest person in the world, you've likely been turned down a couple of times in your life. And if you are the absolute best-looking, funniest, smartest person in the world, you've likely had to reject a few people who you weren't interested in. Rejection is a tricky thing. Even when it's done as nicely as possible, people are still going to end up with their feelings hurt.

Eats: Cook's Corner Cafe

If you're coming to Cook's, come early

You'll want to get going early and loosen your belt buckle a notch when heading over to Cook's Corner Cafe in Dearborn, Mo. Although sisters Charlene Cook and Darla Dubois just opened the 120-seat former pizza shop in Nov. 2007, it gets busy soon after they open at 5:30 a.m. (7 a.m. on Sundays) and stays that way until they close at 2:30 p.m.

Drink of the week: The Jackhammer

That's so cool: Driving LED Emoticon ($29.99)

Briefs for July 18, 2008

POWER SURGE: Royals hit 'em out in June

Despite struggles, Royals home run totals go up during torrid month

KANSAS CITY - As the crowd thundered its approval, David DeJesus endured a violent and lengthy congratulation from his teammates at Kauffman Stadium last week. It was hard to blame the mob assembled at home plate for its enthusiasm. After all, it had been waiting awhile for such an opportunity. With his last-gasp blast in the ninth inning, the Royals' veteran outfielder ended the team's three-year drought without a walk-off home run - the first since April of 2005. His 10th long ball of the year assured them a fourth-place spot going into the All-Star break.

Calendar for the week of July 18

The superhero movie report card

With "Iron Man," "The Incredible Hulk," "The Dark Knight," and the new "Hellboy" installment all hitting theaters this summer, the comic book movie biz is on fire. But how do these new adaptations stack up against their caped competitors? Well, today I'll be playing teacher as I grade the most popular comic book movies of the last 20 years. Now get out your pencils...

MIAA taps Laurie as next football officials director

The MIAA selected Phil Laurie to replace St. Joseph native Bill Lowe, who announced his retirement this week, as the conference's director of football officials.

Royals have reason for 2nd-half optimism

KANSAS CITY - Their starting shortstop's batting average plummeted 100 points and their two hitting stars of the future are falling short - way short, some say - of lofty expectations. But the Kansas City Royals believe those very troubles, including a 12-game losing streak in late May, can contribute to an improved and more stable second half of the season.

The Emmys add a new awards category

Reality show hosts are now among the Emmy hopefuls

The Emmy nominations were announced this morning, and a new category was added to the awards lineup: Best reality show host. I'm not sure reality show hosts deserve the same recognition as real actors and actresses.

Celebrity arrests mean celebrity mugshots

Everyone loves a good (meaning really bad) shot of their favorite arrested celeb

Everyone loves a good (meaning bad) celebrity mugshot. After wanting to know how salacious the crime was, the second most important piece of information is what the mugshot looks like.

So bad it's funny

Screenland Theaters in Kansas City roasts the movies you love to hate

Have you ever watched a movie on TV that was so bad you just had to laugh? Now you can watch those movies on the big screen, with comedians adding even more laughs to the films. The Screenland Theater at the Crossroads in Kansas City is hosting monthly movie roasts, where members of the Kansas City-based CounterClockwise Comedy troupe sit in the audience and make fun of films like "Hackers" and "Showgirls." This month's movie, "Total Recall," will be roasted at 9 p.m. July 18, and 7 p.m. July 19. Tickets are $10 and are available at the box office or at www.screenland.com.

The importance of being No. 1

Luke Hochevar still finding his way in major leagues

KANSAS CITY - Luke Hochevar experienced a pitching epiphany last Friday night ... or at least he hopes that's what it was. "I guess you would say the light came on," the Royals rookie starter said. But a seven-inning, one-run performance against the Seattle Mariners - baseball's worst team - won't justify the start of a Hall of Fame career for Hochevar. The No. 1 overall pick in the 2006 draft, Hochevar's first half-season in the big leagues was marked with ups and downs.

Chiefs sign draft picks Robinson and Johnston

KANSAS CITY - The Kansas City Chiefs agree to terms with two 2008 draft picks. The Chiefs on Wednesday signed receiver Kevin Robinson and defensive end Brian Johnston to three-year deals.

Lafayette grad headed to Northwest for baseball

Bryce McCrary made his decision a little later than most, but the recent Lafayette-graduate's headed to Northwest Missouri State next year to play baseball on scholarship.

Longtime trainer leaves Northwest

MARYVILLE, Mo. - Anyone who watched Northwest Missouri State head athletic trainer David "D.C." Colt fidget alongside head basketball coach Steve Tappmeyer on the bench during games knows he was a Bearcat to the core. But after 27 years, Colt, who also holds the title of assistant professor, has taken wings to become a Falcon at Air Force Academy.

St. Joseph girl prepares for Soap Box Derby championships

Who needs $4-a-gallon gasoline? Jessica Ball, a St. Joseph 14-year-old, gets a trip to Akron, Ohio, thanks to a car running on "renewable" energy. She'll compete in the annual World Championship finals of the Soap Box Derby next week. It's the culmination of three years of work for Jessica, who will be a freshman at Benton High School next month.

MIAA director of football officiating retires

St. Joseph man ends four-decade career in athletics

College football officials get booed, yelled at, cursed. Delivering flowers to people in the hospital generally earns a better greeting. Bill Lowe, who on Tuesday announced his retirement as MIAA director of football officials, thinks it's a decent trade. "You really make people happy when you deliver flowers," Lowe said. "That's right up my alley."

Eats: JJ's Restaurant

If you haven't been to Plattsburg, Mo., for awhile, you're in for a surprise. The downtown has had makeover over the past four years and now looks like an aspiring Parkville, Weston or Westport. Mayor of Plattsburg James Kennedy says one of the forces behind the change has been the owners of JJ's Restaurant.

Seattle's great escape

K.C.'s botched rundown play hands Mariners a rare victory

KANSAS CITY - Finally, somebody else messed up even worse than Seattle. Adrian Beltre was caught in a rundown between third base and home in the ninth inning of a tie game Sunday. But he scored the go-ahead run on John Buck's throwing error and the Mariners went into the All-Star break with a 4-3 victory that made their AL-worst 37-58 record seem a tiny bit less painful.

Hopkins trail can't dissuade 11-year-old

An unlikely cycling hero emerged on Saturday in Hopkins, Mo. He didn't make it to the medals stand. Heck, he didn't even compete against the clock. But I gained a lot of respect for the little guy I gathered up and brought home with me at the end of the 102 Valley Bicycle Race and Tour in Hopkins, Mo.

Nurski prevails in Fairview playoff

He secures his 7th club championship at the city course, 1st since '05

Brad Nurski's putt sat on the outside of the cup on the 10th green before gracefully disappearing for a birdie. The clutch putt on the first playoff hole at the Fairview Club Championship shifted the pressure back to defending champion Mark Korell, who sank three birdie putts on the final four regulation holes.

Seattle slew: DeJesus' walk-off homer lifts Royals

KANSAS CITY -- Mark Grudzielanek's milestone hit was a faded memory by the time David DeJesus did what no Royals player had done in more than three years. DeJesus hit a two-run homer with two out in the ninth and the Kansas City Royals rallied for a 5-4 victory over the Seattle Mariners on Saturday night.

Tight squeeze: Sprint Center's tight seats have some complaining

KANSAS CITY - Clutching the $80 ticket you bought months ago, you plow through the sold-out crowd to find your seat at the Sprint Center and drop gratefully into it. Yikes! It's a tight squeeze for your derriere. Maybe it's all those oversized Cokes and fries you've been consuming. Or maybe, just maybe, the problem could be the seat. It turns out that one-fourth of the Sprint Center's seats are narrower than seats installed in many other arenas built in the past decade.

Trickery earns Aparicia 102 Valley Bicycle Race title

HOPKINS, Mo. - Javier Aparicio of St. Joseph did a little bit of acting to outwit a stranger. It also worked on his friend, landing him the overall championship Saturday in the 102 Valley Bicycle Race. Aparicio, who brought along Rusty Parkhurst and Steve Hall to help him with drafting, shed his initial nerves about riding in the rain that began falling just before the start of the race. He and his teammates - including 2007 champion David Neidinger - were in a small group that had dropped the rest of the pack by the time they had abandoned the rolling hills for a section of flats.

PUT ME IN, COACH BLOG: Hazelriggs give reporter credit

In order to prepare me for what I was about to face, LeBlond coach Chris Losson told me that a lot of people watch Wimbledon on TV and think they could do that.

Doubly difficult to play tennis against Hazelriggs

For a recent book, current author and former prep tennis player, Todd Gallagher challenged America's top tennis pro, Andy Roddick, to a match - with one caveat. Roddick had to use a frying pan instead of a racket. Roddick agreed but couldn't overcome a culinary handicap that neutralized his serve and made it nearly impossible to hit backhand returns.

Grudzielanek collects hit No. 2,000

KANSAS CITY- Mark Grudzielanek led off the Kansas City Royals' third inning Saturday night with a single for his 2,000th career hit. Grudzielanek, who also singled in the first inning, hit a 1-0 pitch from Seattle left-hander Jarrod Washburn to center and received a standing ovation from the Kauffman Stadium crowd.

Hochevar pitches Royals past M's

DeJesus drives in two runs to power Kansas City's offense against Seattle

KANSAS CITY - Luke Hochevar called it the best outing of his young career. He had to be at his best to beat Felix Hernandez. Hochevar scattered five hits over seven innings, and David DeJesus doubled in two runs, helping the Kansas City Royals defeat the Seattle Mariners 3-1 on Friday night.

Walleyes still being caught at Stockton Lake

Anglers just have to go deeper - almost 15 feet now - because of summer flooding

STOCKTON, Mo. - Les Jarman fishes familiar banks when he chases walleyes at Stockton Lake these days. The only difference from the past? Those banks are under almost 15 feet of water now.

Deadline approaching for MDC's managed hunts

Missouri hunters have better chance of having their names drawn this year thanks to weighted system

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) is looking for a few good men - and women, as well as some youth - to fill this year's assortment of managed deer hunts being offered. With the new weighted, random-drawing system, hunters now have a better chance of being drawn if they remain persistent.

A large mouth full of teeth and attitude

Muskies are notoriously tough to catch, but one local man recently landed a 41-inch trophy

Muskies are known among anglers as the "fish of 10,000 casts." For Darren Peters, a member of the St. Joe Bass Club, the odds were a little better, considering the fact he landed a 41-inch trophy while on a recent bass fishing trip at Pony Express Lake.

City to add nearly 4 miles of hiking, biking trails

With three more sections of St. Joseph's hiking and biking trail system set to open later this summer, things are looking up for recreational bicyclists and those trying to save money.

DVL shuffle changes football landscape

Mark Ross wiped the tears from his eyes, momentarily allowing the moonlight over Charger Field in Horton, Kan., to flow into his vision. That October night, the now-departed Horton senior quarterback left his home field for the final time after a 28-22 loss to Rock Creek in the Class 3A playoffs. A downtrodden team for most of the past two decades ended a magical season without achieving all of its goals.

Nice coat

RRT presents 'Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat' next week

There's this book that a lot of folks are reading nowadays. A lot of people say it's a good read. It's called The Bible. You may have heard of it. Anyway, one of the stories from "the good book" has been made into a great musical, and Robidoux Resident Theatre will be bringing it to the stage at the Missouri Theater for the last show of its 2007/08 season when it presents "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat" at 7:30 p.m. July 17, 18 and 19 and 2 p.m. July 20. Tickets are $14 for adults and $7 for children 12 and under. The musical is based on the tale of Joseph from the book of Genesis, and if you think about it, we're talking some pretty heavy stuff. It tells the story of Joseph's brothers selling him as a slave to Egyptians only for Joseph to become an instrumental and powerful figure in Egypt.

They got the beat

New Generation Singers perform Sunday at First Presbyterian Church

When the New Generation Singers take the stage at First Presbyterian Church at 7 p.m. Sunday, Hanna Long will be part of the ensemble. Along with her fellow singers, she will lift up her voice in song and praise the Lord.

On a new 'mission'

Cross Canadian Ragweed is on the road after the success of 'Mission California'

Cross Canadian Ragweed goes by CCR for short. When most people think of the moniker CCR, they think of Creedence Clearwater Revival, who sang hits like "Up Around the Bend" and "Bad Moon Rising" in the late '60s and early '70s. Cross Canadian Ragweed, however, has nothing to do with them.

Where nature meets the human presence

Exhibition features contemporary views of the European landscape

In a time when global warming is a major international issue, going green is a forceful movement and overcrowding is a problem in parts of the world, it's important to observe how human beings and the land interact. And a new exhibition at the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art in Kansas City does just that.

How cool is that?: The Knork

Briefs for July 11, 2008

What's in that?: Lemon drop martini at Hi-Ho

This is: Harvesting Jane

That game we play: Being the 'Single Girl'

In all the years I've been single - in high school, college and beyond - I've always had at least a few friends who single too. I don't have to sit home alone on the weekends because all of my coupled friends aren't going out, or be the third wheel if they decide to invite me along to a movie. But occasionally there is a night when my single friends don't go out and I end up hanging out with couples. Like the night I went to a good-bye dinner for a former co-worker. It didn't occur to me that our group consisted of three couples and me until we went back to a friend's apartment to play darts. Dividing the teams was easy: Each team was a couple and I was a team of one. That night, I was officially The Single Girl.

Calendars for the week of July 11

The shuffle: Mega rock through megapixels

Many people don't realize this, but when I was about 7 years old, I was a rock god. I wielded an ax sharp enough to impale a yeti, emblazoned with an ominous skull surrounded by purple clouds. With this instrument, I could rock hard to Whitesnake and Alice Cooper.

Griffs' Lonnel Johnson will return for senior year

Lonnel Johnson won't join the exodus from the Missouri Western men's basketball team after all. The Griffons' second-leading scorer from last season will return for his senior season, coach Tom Smith confirmed Thursday.

Royals stave off sweep with rally

Teahen's inside-the-park homer caps big 8th inning

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - In this series, it wasn't safe to take a lead. The Chicago White Sox overcame deficits of 4-1 and 5-0 to beat Kansas City in the first two games. On Thursday night, it was the Royals' turn as they scored four runs in the eighth, capped by Mark Teahen's inside-the-park homer, and emerged with a 4-1 victory to avoid being swept.

Big Apple bound

Near-flawless closing earns Soria All-Star roster spot

KANSAS CITY - What Judy Garland used to sing about in "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" may actually have basis in fact. Sometimes, the dreams that you dare to dream really do come true. Just ask a humble-spirited, soft-spoken relief pitcher named Joakim Soria.

CD Review: Coldplay's "Viva La Vida or Death And All His Friends"

The world's biggest band gets worldly, gets experimental and gets better

Since the start of this decade, Coldplay have risen from next-big-thing mellow/melancoly Brit-rockers to the height of rock's pantheon, making the alternative digestable to the masses. While their first two albums, 2000's "Parachutes" and "A Rush of Blood to the Head" in 2002, were track-for-track some of the best albums since the start of the new millenium, something happend in the music of 2005's "X&Y." Coldplay injected their winning combination of piano, hooks and heartache with arena-sized steroids, making their songs sound bigger but never sounding broader or more expansive. No risks were taken, but boy could that sound fill the space.

A blast from the past brings out my younger nerd

I've seen a lot of videos on the internet. My blog about the Weezer video is a testament to that. But what I found today may change my order of greatest videos to ever hit the internet.

White Sox battle back from 5-run deficit to defeat Royals

KANSAS CITY - Carlos Quentin hit a pair of two-run homers and the Chicago White Sox fought back from a five-run deficit to score the go-ahead run on an eighth-inning balk in a 7-6 victory over the Kansas City Royals on Wednesday night.

Gonzalez has played hero's role in past

KANSAS CITY - Yes, Tony Gonzalez has a knack for being in the right place. By now you know that he recently used the Heimlich maneuver to help save a man who was choking on a piece of steak at a restaurant in California.

Long-running 102 Valley cycling event set for Saturday

HOPKINS, Mo. - While the professionals pass vineyards and scale mountains on the Tour de France, an estimated 50 amateur cyclists will pass farm fields and ride rolling hills Saturday during the 102 Valley Bicycle Race and Tour, the area's longest running cycling event.

You can stand if you want to

Fans can leave their fears behind after Chiefs change wording to their "Fan Code of Conduct"

Rest easy, Chiefs fans. You may stand during Chiefs games. There has been a buzz on the Internet recently about a certain item within the Chiefs "Fan Code of Conduct," which is posted on the team's Web site. That item had stated that the Arrowhead Stadium staff this season will proactively intervene with fans who are "standing and/or obstructing the view of other fans."

Putting taste to the test

Bottled water and tap, can you tell the difference?

If commercial beverages were considered a royal court, bottled water would probably be the jester. It keeps you entertained, but it just doesn't have the muscle to rule. Soda is still the supreme ruler in the court of thirst. But the jester is getting serious about seeking the crown. According to the International Bottled Water Association, bottled water ranked as the number 2 most-consumed commercial beverage in the United States in 2007. Consumption last year surpassed 8.8 billion gallons. That's bottled water, not tap. While tap water still quenches, it is its bottled cousin that's going places - to ball games, hikes, walks in the park and picnics on the patio. People like the convenience and, yes, the taste, of bottled water. And many have their favorites. For some, it's Aquafina, for others it's Evian. And most swear that they can tell the difference. So, we decided to test four brands of bottled water - Aquafina, Dasani, Evian and Nestle Pure Life. Just for fun, we also had our eight testers take a sip of tap water.

Coy adjusts to collegiate lifestyle at Arizona St.

Johnny Coy spent his first days as a Sun Devil finding ways to settle in and beat the heat. The Benton graduate and Arizona State freshman attended his first classes this week amidst scorching, triple-digit temperatures.

Downpour soaks K

KANSAS CITY - Emergency crews were mopping up the outfield and working frantically to repair the warning track at Kauffman Stadium on Tuesday after nearly three inches of rain fell in half an hour.

Beasley suffers through 2nd-day struggles

Former Kansas State forward goes 1-of-13 from the floor after stellar debut

ORLANDO, Fla. - Michael Beasley griped about some calls, tumbled after missing layups, then shook his head in disappointment after a rebound bounced off his outstretched hands. His first summer league game drew raves. In his second, well, Beasley looked like a rookie again.

Former Chief Bill Maas opens up about troubled times

Defensive lineman had 2 run-ins with police last year

Bill Maas opens the door of his five-bedroom home and extends a giant hand to shake. He invites you in, offers water or iced tea but says he isn't sure he wants to talk. His name is toxic after a nightmare 2007 that included losing his job as a football analyst for Fox Sports, an arrest on gun and drug charges and a detainment at the airport when security found a gun in his carry-on bag.

Making TV out of 'True Life'

MTV's real reality show turns 10

MTV's only real reality show, 'True Life,' celebrates its 10th anniversary this month.

Chiefs tight end saves choking man's life

KANSAS CITY - A California man says Pro Bowl tight end Tony Gonzalez of the Kansas City Chiefs kept him from choking to death. "Tony saved my life. There's no doubt," Ken Hunter, a shipping company manager, told The Associated Press in a phone interview from Huntington Beach, Calif. "Tony came up behind me and gave me the Heimlich maneuver. Thank God he was there."

Royals finally get a win in Tampa

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. - A stroke of good luck by Carlos Pena wasn't quite enough for the Tampa Bay Rays. After Pena hit a tying solo homer off All-Star closer Joakim Soria in the ninth, the Royals struck back with 10th-inning home runs by John Buck and Mike Aviles for a 7-4 win Monday. The loss snapped the Rays' seven-game winning streak. Tampa Bay, with the majors' best record at 55-33, lost for the second time in the last 13 games. The Rays went 1-for-19 with runners in scoring position.

Western softball coach turns down D-I job

The sand might be whiter and the water bluer in Jacksonville, Fla., but the grass wasn't greener for Jen Bagley. The Missouri Western softball coach turned down the head coaching position with Division I North Florida last month to remain in St. Joseph. Bagley interviewed with the Ospreys - who jumped to the D-I ranks in 2005 - May 30, and North Florida offered her the position in early June. Bagley, whose former assistant was friends with North Alabama's outgoing coach, Sonya Wilmoth, had 12 days to consider the Ospreys' offer while she coached for American International Sports Tours in Italy. And the further along Bagley got in the process, the more hesitant she felt about it.

Rays batter Royals again

Andy Sonnanstine pitched seven strong innings, Ben Zobrist homered again and the Tampa Bay Rays beat the Kansas City Royals 3-0 Saturday night for their sixth straight win. Zobrist homered for the third game in a row as the Rays increased their AL East lead to a season-high four games over second-place Boston. Tampa Bay has won 10 of 11.

Solving the southpaws

Calloway ready to face another lefthander on upcoming Civic Arena card

For much of his early career, lefthanders were to Rob Calloway what a plastic jug of vodka is to an alcoholic. Troublesome at best, dangerous at times. Southpaws handed the St. Joseph boxer the majority of his seven losses - in 78 professional fights. "It's just different, man, adjusting to southpaws," Calloway said. "We just don't see many lefthanders. Everything is pretty much backwards."

Coy ready to reject Phillies' offer

Johnny Coy left St. Joseph and his interest in the Philadelphia Phillies behind on Saturday morning. The Benton High School graduate made the 19-hour drive to Tempe, Ariz., on Saturday and plans to enroll in classes at Arizona State on Tuesday. When that happens, Coy's athletic future for the next three years - in basketball and baseball - will be with the Sun Devils. "I'm going to Arizona State to play both. There's nothing that could change in my mind," Coy said. "It's pretty much a no-brainer for me. (The Phillies) weren't offering enough money. For me to give up playing two sports at a big time college, that doesn't happen very often. It would have had to be a lot of money."

Royals can't muster another big comeback

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. - The Tampa Bay Rays surged to first place without the offensive production they're accustomed to getting from Carlos Pena. Now that he's back in the middle of the lineup, the AL East leaders are counting on him to help them stay on top. Pena homered for the first time in a month and drove in five runs Friday night, supporting a strong pitching performance by Edwin Jackson and pacing an 11-2 victory over the Kansas City Royals. The Rays slugger spent most of June on the disabled list with a broken left index finger. He returned from a 19-game layoff last weekend at Pittsburgh, however his bat had been relatively quiet during his first six games off the DL.

High schools abandoning Kansas' Big 7 conference

In the past two weeks, the Big 7 League just got a lot smaller. After a series of June meetings and subsequent school board rulings, three Big 7 schools - Holton, Jefferson County West and Royal Valley - confirmed their intention to leave the conference in order to start their own league along with Perry-Lecompton and Santa Fe Trail. The moves won't take effect until the 2010-11 school year but leave Hiawatha, Sabetha and Nemaha Valley in a precarious position.

Sis-boom-ahhhhhhhh

The St. Joe area has plenty to offer on Independence Day

Once again, it's the Fourth of July. The smell of barbecue is in the air. Live music can be heard near and far. And all over Northwest Missouri, people are arranging some sweet fireworks displays. So don't sit in your backyard and light sparklers all night. Get up and go do something! Here are some of the events scheduled in St. Joe, Kansas City and towns nearby:

The 411 on 311

311 is working on a new album and they're on tour... with a new friend

For nearly two decades, 311 (Three-Eleven) has been rocking stages and radios all over the world. On July 10, the Omaha-based band will be in concert for the Unity Tour at the Sandstone Amphitheatre at Capital Federal Park in Kansas City. They will be co-headlining the show with Snoop Dogg. Yes, Snoop Dogg.

Change for the better

Local screamo rock group The Thirty performs at Grace Evangelical Church Saturday

The past year has been one of peaks and valleys for local Christian screamo quintet The Thirty. While the band has hit the road on three tours, they've also had an equal number of lineup changes, which does little to nothing for band stability.

A song to see

The St. Joseph Music Foundation hosts 'Future Impact' benefit concert Saturday

Nobody can say that blind people haven't given something to music. Otherwise, you wouldn't have heard of all those old blues musicians like Blind Lemon Jefferson, let alone Ray Charles or Stevie Wonder.

Eats: Carson's Sports Grille

If you love watching sports, Carson's is your kind of place. With 23 TVs, including one enormous 8-foot-by-10-foot screen on the wall, you won't miss any action.

What's in that?: The Kikivous at the Rendezvous

How cool is that?: PowerSquid Outlet Multiplier

That game we play: The turnoff of texting

I have a lot of pet peeves when it comes to dating, things guys do that instantly turn me off. At the top of my list is texting, as in doing entirely too much of it. There was the guy I met at a wedding last year who asked for my phone number and then proceeded to text me for every conversation we had. For a month, every time he wanted to talk to me, he would text me.

Where'd you get that?: Tim Roumas

Briefs for July 4, 2008

This is: An untitled mural by Elaine Gann

The shuffle: I got SOME MTV

I've already ranted about my MTV frustration on my News-Press blog, so the 13 people who read it (my dad and whoever he forwarded it to. He's so proud.) may be wondering why I am continuing this issue further. Well, as I sat one day watching what appeared to be "The Hills'" couple Heidi and Spencer's trademark romantic squabbles, in pops Fall Out Boy bassist Pete Wentz. The staged argument and emo posterboy interruption was meant to promote FNMTV, a show that airs at 8 p.m. Friday nights this summer that will feature (brace yourselves) music videos.

Royals surge to late-innings victory in Baltimore

BALTIMORE - Mark Grudzielanek went 4-for-5 and played a key role in a seven-run sixth inning that carried the Kansas City Royals past the Baltimore Orioles 10-7 on Thursday night. The Royals overcame a four-run deficit and two homers by Aubrey Huff to earn a split of the four-game series. Kansas City took an early 3-0 lead, then yielded seven straight runs before sending 11 players to the plate in their most prolific inning of the season.

Sci-fi hero passes away

For those of you, like myself, that grew up watching Stargate SG-1, the news of Don S. Davis (Gen. Hammond) passing away will be as hard on you as it is for me.

The Essential Patti Labelle & The Essential O'Jays

If any two musical entities personify the Philly Soul sound it's Patti Labelle and the O'Jays. These two new Legacy Essential CDS covers the careers of both of these successful Philadelphia-based acts from their 1960s roots to the present.

Cabrera Mimics Mastery

BALTIMORE - Winless with a 7.06 ERA in June, Daniel Cabrera happily flipped the calendar with another dominant performance against the Kansas City Royals. Cabrera pitched a seven-hitter to earn his first victory since May 20, Aubrey Huff homered and the Baltimore Orioles beat Gil Meche and the Royals 5-2 Wednesday night.

Off the court

Volley's offers more than just volleyball

A crowd has gathered at Volley's on a recent Friday evening. As teams bump, set and spike back and forth, spectators watch in the seats and bleachers lining the courts. Referee whistles can be heard over the music blaring from the bar area, where people mingle as they enjoy happy hour. Volley's main attraction is, obviously, the volleyball games that take place almost every night of the week. But for every person there to play a game, there's another person who has come just to watch and socialize. Lacyne Phoenix has been coming to Volleys for years just to enjoy the atmosphere.

Microsoft's Yahoo buyout picks back up

Yahoo Inc.'s share rose in lue of a report by the Wall Street Journal that said Microsoft has been trying to team up with other media outlets to buy Yahoo.

For Gallagher and Vollmer, summer is no time to rest

For Kate Gallagher, there's no such thing as an off-season. While most of her classmates are enjoying their summers off, the Savannah junior-to-be practically will spend the entire month of July on the road.

Kansas City's ninth-inning rally against Baltimore falls short this time

BALTIMORE - George Sherrill would have been happy with a night off. The Baltimore Orioles closer had blown two straight save opportunities by yielding late-inning home runs, yet circumstances called for the left-hander to hold on to a ninth-inning lead against the Kansas City Royals. Fortunately, Sherrill had plenty of margin for error.

Stories for July 2008

Thursday, July 31

Former Mizzou guard stars in new indie film

Gerson expects to have manager, GM in place by October

Wednesday, July 30

Keira Knightly says no to digital breast enhancement

Tuesday, July 29

Lathrop's move part of larger trend, won't look for steroids

Sunday, July 27

Having fun and saving lives are all in a day's work

Saturday, July 26

Peterson prepares dorm life again - NFL style

Friday, July 25

Top pick unsigned; rain disrupts practice

Why young deceased actors and musicians become cult icons

Ricochet plays the Buffalo Bar tonight with a new album on the horizon

Powerpop trio Fastball return to road with new songs and solidarity

Love him or hate him, comedian Patrice Oneal is always himself

Thursday, July 24

Meche keeps promise to catcher - a now-bald Buck

Dave Grohl and Co. fill arena with brawny rock and tireless energy

Royals' Hall of Famer recalls infamous "pine tar" home run 25 years after tirade

Tuesday, July 22

Monday, July 21

Sunday, July 20