Teens on target - Kids' appeal real

There are a whole lot of girls near the age of 14 - five millionor so, to judge by the scream level at the Rosemont Horizon Thursdaynight - who believe that New Kids on the Block are the greatest rockgroup in the world. Since rock means something different to a14-year-old girl than it ever can to a man old enough to be herfather, I won't argue the point.

While the Kids have sold some 10 million records in 1989 -topping the charts with their "Hangin' Tough" album and receivingadvance orders of more than a million for their "Merry, MerryChristmas" collection - cynics say the group is a scam. The groupis hot enough to make heavy-demand returns for shows Jan. 12 and …

Vikings-Saints: Great way to get going

Maybe this time Brett Favre won't get picked off with victory in his grasp.

In as juicy a season opener as the NFL could provide, Favre marches the Minnesota Vikings into New Orleans on Thursday night for a reprise of January's NFC championship game.

The Saints and their long trod-upon fans get the opportunity to celebrate the franchise's first Super Bowl title, then the New Orleans defense tries to batter Favre the way it did in the 31-28 overtime win that sent the former Aints to the Super Bowl.

Favre sort of retired in the offseason before having left ankle surgery in May, then balked again about returning to Minnesota when the recovery was slower than he …

Chinese vice premier visits Australia

Beijing is sending a top-level official to Australia this week for the first time since a series of rows sent relations plummeting between the Asian giant and one of its key suppliers of raw materials.

In a sign that tensions between the two countries are finally easing, Chinese Vice Premier Li Keqiang _ considered a potential future president _ was to arrive late Thursday in Sydney and be greeted by Deputy Prime Minister Julia Gillard.

Li will also visit Australian near neighbors New Zealand and Papua New Guinea during the weeklong trip.

The visit follows months of angst over government restrictions on Chinese investment in Australian mining, …

It's big, but not the biggest

…

Take my dry dock, please

A huge, unused floating dry dock was torn from its landing by extreme winds and sent on a 3-mile journey through San Francisco Bay until it was beached on Yerba Buena Island, causing major headaches for Port of San Francisco officials. The dry dock, 650 feet long and yet virtually unnoticed for years while rusting away, was tied to a pier with large steel posts. But a storm in early November that brought a full storm warning from the National Weather Service (a 10 on the Beaufort scale) snapped …

Dennis Rodman pleads no contest to misdemeanor charge of spousal battery

Former NBA star Dennis Rodman pleaded no contest to misdemeanor spousal battery Tuesday and was ordered to undergo counseling and to perform highway or other physical labor.

Two other counts were dismissed under a plea deal, the Los Angeles city attorney's office said.

Rodman was sentenced to a year of domestic violence counseling, three years of probation and 45 days of graffiti removal or road cleanup work for the California Department of Transportation or a similar program in Florida where he lives, said city …

Club Hopping

KELLY JOE PHELPS

Known mostly as a remarkable blues guitarist, Phelps (inset) hasshifted gears and refined his songwriting skills. Although hisfoundation is country-blues and folk music, there is nothingtraditional about Phelps' refreshingly poetic songs on the new disc,"Tunesmith Retrofit." At 7:30 p.m. Saturday at Schubas, 3159 N.Southport. Tickets, $15 in advance, $18 at the door. Call (773) 525-2508. --MH

GARY JULES

On two previous albums, each stunning in their own right, Julesproved to be a gifted, soulful songwriter. After a three-year hiatus,he returns with a new batch of songs on a self-titled disc availableat shows and on the Internet. Jim …

AIDS up second year in a row, Blacks hit hardest

AIDS up second year in a row, Blacks hit hardest

For the second year in a row, the number of AIDS cases in Illinois have shown a marked increase, with Blacks leading the pack and a return of high-risk behavior to blame, Illinois Department of Health Director Dr. John R. Lumpkin announced.

"Unfortunately, a growing number of people appear to be relying much on treatment advances, ignoring prevention messages and returning to high-risk behavior," Lumpkin said.

"Each new generation needs to be reminded that HIV and AIDS are life-threatening diseases and about the importance of prevention."

While it was originally believed that AIDS was a gay, white male problem, …

Cincinnati house fire kills 3 children

Authorities in Cincinnati say three children have died in a house fire.

Fire Capt. Mike Washington says firefighters arrived after 2:30 a.m. Monday and found heavy flames throughout both floors of the single-family home.

The bodies of the children were found inside after firefighters extinguished the fire. All were under the age of …

The 1880s mothered inventions

NEW YORK Many inventions and discoveries taken for granted today,which have had a profound effect on the world's economy, health andlifestyles, came on the scene only a century ago, according to therecently published World Almanac Book of Inventions.

The volume lists the metal snap fastener, the time clock, theelectrical spark plug, the skyscraper, Louis Pasteur's rabies vaccineand women's suits among the creative ideas of 1885.

The steam turbine, contact lenses, electric elevator and thezipper also were introduced about a century ago, note the editors,who concede that in some cases both the dates and claims of creditfor inventions can be controversial.

…

Treasury Bonds Trim Losses Slightly

NEW YORK - Treasury bond prices, which were lower, turned up slightly on Tuesday morning as the market absorbed on-target labor cost data and better-than-expected inflation data.

At 11 a.m. EDT, the 10-year Treasury note was up 63 cents per $1,000 in face value, or 2/32 point, from its level at 5 p.m. Monday. Its yield, which moves in the opposite direction, fell to 4.80 percent from 4.81 percent.

The 30-year bond rose 9/32 point. Its yield fell to 4.94 percent from 4.96 percent.

The 2-year note fell 1/32 point. Its yield rose to 4.60 percent from 4.58 percent.

Yields on 3-month Treasury bills were 4.97 percent as the discount rate rose 0.10 percentage …

(null)

EDITORS:

The Associated Press closes its news cycle for Saturday, May 17, 2008, and begins its report for Sunday, May 18, 2008.

The AP news report is protected by copyright, which gives the AP …

Playboy likes what it sees in Bears

Playboy magazine's September issue will Bear all.

Depending on the recuperative power of quarterback Jim McMahon,the feeling is the Bears should defeat the Cleveland Browns in SuperBowl XXII on Jan. 24 in San Diego.

"The Bears have the best players at the right age with the rightexperience and the right coach - even if they do have to beat the New York Giants," says Playboy in its annual Pro Football Forecast.

"But if McMahon takes an early retirement, the Giants will do anencore. Last year was no fluke.

"The Cleveland Browns are the class of the AFC this year," thepre-season report continues. "Bernie Kosar may be better than (Dan)Marino or (John) Elway."

In addition to the Bears and Browns, Playboy predicts theGiants, San Francisco, New England and Seattle will win divisiontitles.

"Wild card" teams include the Los Angeles Rams, Washington,Cincinnati and Denver.

"Of course, in order for any part of the above to take place,the owners and the players' association will first have to avoid astrike," said Playboy's new sports editor Gary Cole.

"The key issue. . . . is the same old one: money. This time,it's disguised as free agency. The owners will probably bend alittle, but a pro football free agency is unlikely. The players,basically happy with their lot and their pay, will find a gracefulway to give in."

Nabokov, Sharks Blank Coyotes 6-0

Evgeni Nabokov made 15 saves to record his second shutout in four days to lead the San Jose Sharks past the Phoenix Coyotes 6-0 Thursday night.

Joe Pavelski scored a pair of power-play goals, Patrick Rissmiller had a goal and an assist, and Jeremy Roenick, Devin Setoguchi and Steve Bernier also scored for the Sharks who have won four straight.

Phoenix lost its third in a row, all against San Jose, and has been outscored 15-1 over that span. The Coyotes also fell to a Western Conference-worst 2-7-0 at home.

Nabokov's shutout was his third this season and the 37th of his career.

Roenick gave the Sharks a 1-0 lead 4:21 into the game when he gathered the puck near center ice, skated to the middle of the left faceoff circle and fired a wrist shot off the crossbar.

Rissmiller made it 2-0 at 11:23 of the period when he took a pass from Patrick Marleau from the left side and beat Alex Auld with a wrist shot from the top of the left faceoff circle.

Pavelski extended the Sharks' lead to 3-0 with a power-play goal at 8:23 of the second, forcing a wraparound shot past Auld's extended right skate.

Pavelski's goal ended the night for Auld, who allowed the three goals on 18 shots before he was replaced by Mikael Tellqvist.

Pavelski added his second goal with 17:48 remaining and Setoguchi made it 5-0 just 68 seconds later off a crisp cross-crease pass from Joe Thornton.

Bernier capped the scoring with 6:01 left.

Notes:@ Marleau's first assist was his 500th career point. He added another assist on Pavelski's second goal and a third on Bernier's score. ... Roenick's 501st goal moved him within one of Joe Mullen for second place on the American-born goal-scoring list. ... With defenseman Nick Boynton suspended, the Coyotes recalled Brendan Bell from San Antonio of the American Hockey League for the first time this season. To make room for Bell, Phoenix pushed LW Josh Gratton through waivers and assigned him to San Antonio. Bell had led San Antonio defenseman with four goals and was second with 12 points. ... Auld has allowed seven goals on 46 shots in his past two starts, both against San Jose.

She Can't Free Herself From Abusive Boyfriend

D D ear Diane: My boyfriend and I have been together for 16 months,and all of those months he has cheated on me. I am 20 and working.He is 23.

Diane, I caught him in bed with the same woman two times. Hesaid nothing happened. She's always calling him and buying himclothes and cars. He said he's just using her for her money. Ithink that I'm the one being used.

We constantly fight. At some points, he hits me or chokes meand calls me very foul names.

Recently, he was locked up for violation of probation. I sendhim money and go to see him often. On one visit I told him aboutthings I found in his home after I went over to clean it up. I founda key to a hotel room, women's clothing and birth control pills.None of this stuff belonged to me.

After I asked him about this, he snapped. He hit me in themouth and called me all kinds of names again. Right out at theprison! In front of everyone! All I could do was look stupid andcry.

I recently found out that he charged an engagement ring for meon this other woman's credit card. He always tells me he loves meand cares for me, and I believe him.

Please, Diane, I need your help before it's too late. Sign me .. .

DUMB, STUPID AND CRAZY

Dear D., S. and C.: It is too late. You have already wasted 16months on this lunatic.

You caught this guy in bed with another woman - twice - and yetyou continue to clean his house, send him money and swallow his lies?Even though he hits you, in front of prison guards, you still likethe idea of an engagement ring - purchased on his lover's creditcard?

Get rid of this loser.

Call a hotline for abused women. Read Women Who Love Too Much byRobin Norwood (Pocket Books, $5.99). Then reread it, and write back.

Dear Diane: I greatly disagreed with your advice to "Stuck," whowas 16 and dating a man who was 24.

I met my husband, "Scot," when I was 14 and he was 23. We havehad a loving, understanding relationship from the beginning. I nevermissed out on any high school or teenage activities I didn't want tomiss. In fact, when I mentioned that I wanted to drop out of schoolat age 16, he told me he wouldn't marry me until I graduated! I didgraduate with a B average.

Scot never held me back. He helped me move forward.

I think this girl should stay with her boyfriend if they arehappy. If this relationship works out like mine did, GREAT! If not,there are other fish in the sea.

As for her parents, Stuck should mention to them casually that"a friend" is dating a much older man and see how they react. Sheshould trust her own instincts on what to do from there.

BEEN THERE

Dear Diane: I have to agree with you in response to "Stuck."

Stuck, take it from me. I've been there. When I was 15, Ibegan dating a man who was 20. Sure, in the beginning it waswonderful. Lots of fun. But then the age difference started to getin the way. His friends did not want to accept me due to my age, andsoon he was trotting off to the bars with them, leaving me homealone!

I finally did grow up. I am now 22 and preparing to marry theman of my dreams. (No, it is not the one I used to date!)

Believe me, Stuck, it may not seem like it now, but you do growup a lot in seven years - not just physically, but mentally,emotionally and spiritually. And this type of growing up is what oneneeds for a healthy love relationship. ALSO "BEEN THERE"

Have a question or comment? Write to Diane Crowley, Box 3254,Chicago, 60654 or leave a message at (312) 321-2989.

New programmable, DRP-specific estimating system automatically flags issues of concern to carriers

ESTIMATING SYSTEMS

If you participate in several direct repair programs (DRPs), you're aware that each carrier has different key performance indicators (KPIs) that must be met to ensure payment. And to help ameliorate some of the confusion when complying with each company's standards, a newly upgraded programmable estimating system aims to reduce supplements and disputes with insurers by catching appraisal anomalies before a vehicle enters the bay.

"It brings your attention to certain lines on the estimate," saysVern David, manager at Central Body Works in liakersfield, Calif."It gives us a gentle reminder from the get-go instead of getting a reminder from the insurance company."

Central has been previewing the recently released Accumark Advisor version 1 . 1 from CCC Information Services. The shop gives the system high marks for its performance capabilities.

"It can make our operation more efficient," says David. "It s a tool for us to help meet the key performance indicators of the different insurance companies.

"We manage multiple DRP relationships, each of which has specific guidelines for us to follow and different KPIs for us to meet," he says. "We can double-check estimates before we send them to the carrier, enabling us to write more-complete estimates and reduce the number of estimates requiring supplements.This saves us valuable time and resources."

Wasted production efforts are reduced when an estimate at odds with a carrier's recjuirements is detected early in the process, he says.

"You can address that up front and avoid that phone call or e-mail," he says.

As an example, David cites a fender repair and the choice of affixing an OEM, aftermarket or used replacement. "We run that (through the program) before we do the lock and estimate."The system will flag the procedure if the insurer's KPI guidelines specify a non-OEM product. "It gives us an opportunity to look for an alternative part."

Central is thus in position to justify installation of an OEM fender if, say, a salvage piece is not available within .111 allotted timeframe or an aftermarket version fails to meet Certified Automotive Parts Association (CAPA) standards.

"I fix the cars the way the insurance company wants it done," he says. "I may get beat up on this (among industry colleagues), but KPI benefits all of us. It makes us more profitable because we're going to stay on their programs. They're more profitable because it keeps the cost of their claims down, and I'm more profitable because it keeps work coming through the door."

The system also allows you to obtain proper payment, says I )avid. as it challenges, "Why did you choose this particular part, and did you miss any procedures that you should be getting paid for?"

'Like a spell-check'

"This is designed to help both the carriers and repairers with one tool," says Debbie Day, CCCs senior vice president of marketing and product management. "It's a real-world program based on actual DRPs." And Day says the process is not overly complicated

When both parties are on the same page, the entire collision repair process is made more efficient, she said. Body shop owners were instrument.il in developing it.

"Increasing vehicle complexity and varying insurer-specific guidelines have made estimate writing more complicated," she says. "You can put 'stickles' up (by your computer) to remind you on what the standards are, but this does it automatically. It's like a spell-check."

Version 1.1 of the Accumark Advisor includes some 70 new "rules" in addition to the 1 1 5 rules available in the original version of the product, which is an integrated feature of the company's Pathways Estimating Solution.

Accumark Advisor is accessible by clicking on the "audit" button within the estimate. Estimates are automatically reviewed against each insurer's established DRP guidelines, which the body shop enters into the system.

[Author Affiliation]

James E. Guyette

News Correspondent

[Author Affiliation]

JAMES GUYETTE is a freelance writer who also writes for our sister publication, Aftermarket Business. In our news section this month Jim reports on MQVP's bankruptcy, giv- ing car-buying tips to parents with college bound kids, flood cars in the marketplace and a new DRP-specific estimating system.

Body of fan found in car near home of Paula Abdul

Police say a fan of Paula Abdul has been found dead in a car parked near a home belonging to the "American Idol" judge.

Capt. Jim Miller tells KTTV-TV the death appears to be a suicide. He says the woman, who was in her 30s and was not identified, had an infatuation with Abdul.

Police spokeswoman Julianne Sohn says officers responded to a call about 6 p.m. Tuesday and arrived in the Sherman Oaks area to find the body.

Public records show Abdul owns a home near the site where the body was found.

A message left for Abdul's publicist Stephanie Sher was not returned.

TIPS & TECHNIQUES

A continuing compendium of tips and techniques for cooks from FoodNetwork Kitchens:

Pie patch-up

To make pies and tarts, the dough is rolled, draped into the panand trimmed. But don't throw excess dough away. Instead, save ituntil the crust is finished. Even the best-rolled dough sometimestears, or droops when the shell is baked unfilled.

Using bits of the reserved dough, either in pieces or like puttyto patch the crust, prevents the filling from leaking. If a fillingis poured into the crust, then baked, the small bits of dough willcook along with it.

Using saffron

Saffron, the hand-picked stigmas of a small, purple crocus, hasthe distinction of being the most expensive spice in the world. About75,000 blossoms are needed to produce a pound of filaments. Luckily,a pinch perfumes a whole stew, risotto, side dish or sauce. Buy wholefilaments, not powdered saffron, with a deep rusty color for the mostintense flavor.

`Big Bird' costume creator Kermit Love dies at 91

Kermit Love, the costume designer who helped puppeteer Jim Henson create Big Bird and other "Sesame Street" characters, has died. He was 91.

Love died from congestive heart failure Saturday in Poughkeepsie, near his home in Stanfordville, Love's longtime partner, Christopher Lyall, told The New York Times.

In addition to his work with Henson, Love was a designer for some of ballet's most prominent choreographers, including Twyla Tharp, Agnes de Mille, Jerome Robbins and George Balanchine.

Love also designed costumes and puppets for film and advertising, including the Snuggle bear from the fabric softener commercials.

"Sesame Street," public television's groundbreaking effort to use TV to teach preschoolers, premiered in 1969. Henson designed the original sketches of Big Bird, and Love then built the 8-foot, 2-inch yellow-feathered costume.

It was Love's idea to add a few feathers designed to fall off, to create a more realistic feel.

"The most important thing about puppets is that they must project their imagination, and then the audience must open their eyes and imagine," he told The New York Times in 1981.

Love also helped design costumes and puppets for Mr. Snuffleupagus, Oscar the Grouch and Cookie Monster, among other characters. He even appeared on the show himself as Willy, the fantasy neighborhood's resident hot dog vendor.

But Love always insisted Henson's famous frog wasn't named for him, according to The New York Times.

Caroll Spinney, who has played Big Bird since "Sesame Street" began, said he knew Love was gravely ill but didn't know he'd died until Tuesday.

"Kermit was definitely a totally unique person," 74-year-old Spinney said. "He looked very much like Santa Claus but was a little bit more like the Grinch."

In addition to designing the Big Bird costume, he added, "Kermit really helped me with dramatic coaching, and he was wonderful at that."

Born in 1916, Love began making puppets for a federal Works Progress Administration theater in 1935. He also designed costumes for Orson Welles' Mercury Theater. From there he began working with the New York City Ballet's costumer.

In his 2003 book, "The Wisdom of Big Bird (and the Dark Genius of Oscar the Grouch): Lessons From a Life in Feathers," Spinney recalled that after a year on "Sesame Street," he felt he couldn't live in New York on his salary.

Love told him to give it a month; the next week, Big Bird was on the cover of Time magazine and Spinney couldn't imagine leaving.

Danish Football Results

Results from the 13th round of the Danish football league (home teams listed first):

Saturday's Game

Esbjerg 1, OB Odense 2

Sunday's Games

AC Horsens 1, AGF Aarhus 1

Randers FC 3, FC Nordsjaelland 2

FC Copenhagen 4, SonderjyskE 0

Aalborg 0, Brondby 0

Monday's Game

FC Midtjylland vs.Vejle

Chinese shares fall, trading muted as country observes mourning for earthquake victims

Chinese stocks fell Monday in thin trading, with investors staying on the sidelines as the country observes a three-day mourning period for victims of last week's earthquake.

The benchmark Shanghai Composite Index fell 0.5 percent, or 19.47 points, to 3,604.76. The Shenzhen Composite Index fell 0.4 percent to 1,120.24.

"Trading incentives are not very strong today, as investors are in a low mood because of the earthquake," said Chen Huiqin at Huatai Securities.

Authorities declared a three-day national period of mourning beginning Monday. Trading on the country's two stock exchanges halted briefly Monday afternoon as the country marked the one-week anniversary of the 7.9 magnitude quake that struck central China's Sichuan province May 12, killing more than 32,000 people and leaving millions homeless.

Cement and pharmaceutical stocks rose on expectations of higher demand from quake-related reconstruction and rescue efforts. Huaxin Cement rose the daily 10 percent limit to 29.59 yuan.

But banks were lower, with a hike in the required reserve ratio due to take effect Tuesday.

Shanghai Pudong Development Bank fell 1.3 percent to 30.22 yuan. Bank of China fell 0.8 percent to 4.92 yuan.

Fire destroys Olivet sanctuary

Abbotsford, B.C.

During the evening of December 11, a fire destroyed the sanctuary of Olivet Mennonite Church here. The offices, fortunately, did not suffer fire damage and no one was in the building at the time. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.

Please pray for the congregation as they mourn the loss of their church building. Pray also for leaders as they work with the insurance company in assessing damage and process the needs of the future. Pray for Jim Ratzlaff and Stacey O'Neill as they minister to the needs of their church members.-From Mennonite Church B.C. release

Cost summary of Democratic proposals

Figures, in millions, supplied by Rep. Harris Fawell. Proposal 1990 cost 4-year cost

Child care $2,500 $10,000 Preschool education for children at risk 750 3,000

National Teachers Corps 2501,000

Expand college financial aid 9003,600 Reverse "cuts" in low-income education 1,500 6,000 Expand bilingual, black and hispanic institutions 38152 "Special needs" education 130 520 Increase support for arts and humanities 20 80 Aggressive campaign to end illiteracy 28 112 Drug education, interdiction, treatment 3,100 12,400 Foreign assistance to reform drug-based economies ?

? Increased aid to criminal justice agencies 220880 Legal services to the poor ? ? Federal funding for abortion ? ? Make up "shortfall" in public housing 12,000 48,000 Long-term home and health care for elderly 4,30027,700 Mandated health insurance 25,000 100,000 Accelerated research on AIDS 350 1,400 `Redouble" efforts on clean water 2,300 ? New social programs to revitalize rural areas ? ? Renew fight against hunger at home and abroad 350

1,400 "Reinvest in its people" 1,700 6,800 Total cost: 55,436 223,044

EU committed to free trade deal with Canada

TORONTO (AP) — European Union trade commissioner Karel De Gucht said Wednesday the EU is committed to finalizing a comprehensive free trade agreement with Canada in 2011.

During a trade meeting in Canada, De Gucht said negotiators have completed five rounds of talks and are in the final stages of reaching an agreement that could generate additional annual income of up to €20 billion (US$26 billion) for the EU and Canada combined.

Canada's international trade department said in 2009 two-way trade between the EU and Canada reached US$74 billion. Canadian merchandise exports to the EU totaled US$29 billion in 2009, the department reported.

"It is vital for both sides to double up the efforts to reach our common goal, that is to say a good deal that serves the interests of both Canada and of Europe, and this deal is set to be unique, a milestone if you will, among EU trade deals," said De Gucht.

Along with removing tariffs and non-tariff barriers, De Gucht said, for the first time in a trade talks the EU has put areas falling under the jurisdiction of Canada's provinces and territories on the table as part of the discussions, instead of solely focusing on federal arenas.

Canada's International Trade Minister Peter Van Loan said if a deal is reached, Canada will be the first developed economy in the world to have free trade agreements with both the European Union and the United States.

"The negotiation of this trade agreement is Canada's most important trade initiative since the free-trade agreement between Canada and the United States," said Van Loan.

Both government officials said they are still working out the thorny issues such as access to provincial government procurement, including new green technologies and agricultural subsidies.

Procurement is becoming an especially controversial area, with unions and civil society groups mounting a campaign to block concessions.

Citizen organizations such as the Council of Canadians and the Canadian Union of Public Employees said they will release a report Thursday warning that Canada's public water system is in jeopardy in the trade talks. An agreement would increase pressure to privatize the current government-owned water systems, they say.

Van Loan said everything is on the table in the talks, but some issues may require creative solutions.

Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper has put new trade agreements in the forefront in a bid to grow the Canadian economy through increased exports.

Canada has signed a string of agreements, including with Colombia, and is pursing trade pacts with India and South Korea.

The next round of Canada-EU talks is set for January in Brussels.

The Laser Show

There are three portrait photos hanging high on the wall in the conference room at Hayden Corp. in West Springfield.

From left to right, they are Dan Hayden's great-grandfather, Charles Elisha; his grandfather, Charles Wesley (everyone called him Wes); and his father, John, who together account for roughly 90 years of entrepreneurship, innovation, and business diversity - all traditions that Dan is continuing today.

Indeed, the company that started out making wire cloth for cylinder molds in the region's many paper mills has been a study in industrial evolution over the past century or so.

Under Wes Hayden's direction, said his grandson, the company started to handle a variety of different services for the paper industry, especially through a process known as metalizing, or the technique of coating metal to strengthen and protect it. Over the years, the process has benefited from new materials - as well as new techniques and equipment for applying them - but the basic principle is the same.

As the paper industry continued its decline in the '60s and '70s, however, John Hayden saw a clear need to further diversify the family business, and did so. He expanded the company's reach into several new sectors, including the plastics industry, computer components, the pump and valve markets, sporting goods (golf clubs), and especially the military.

Hayden has handled coating work on a number of Los Angeles and Nimitz Class submarines, both at Quonset Point, Conn., where they're built, and at Groton, Conn., where they're repaired and overhauled.

"We've done missile-hatch doors, anchoring points, lots of valves, work inside the sail, in the reactor holds, all over the submarines," he explained. "It's been a good niche for us."

And under Dan's direction, the company, now with 36 employees, has diversified further in recent years through a large-scale investment in laser-cladding technology, used to coat and thus protect equipment used in especially harsh environments. Companies that drill for oil and natural gas have become the best customers for Hayden's laser division, said Dan, adding that that other markets have been developed and more are being explored with the goal of maximizing the company's sizable investment in this technology.

Today, Dan carries on in the tradition of the Haydens who came before him, meaning ongoing work to identify new growth markets - renewable energy and especially windpower could hold vast potential in the years and decades to come - and strategies for taking the company's name to places it's never been before, in both a literal and figurative sense.

For this issue and its focus on the region's manufacturing sector, BusinessWest goes inside Hayden's plant in West Springfield for a look at a company with plenty of history that, in many respects, continues to repeat itself.

Steeling the Show

As he talked with BusinessWest, Hayden pointed out the windows of the company's conference room toward the front of the property. The half-acre or so of land was barren, with large holes in the ground where several 60-year-old trees toppled by the June 1 tornado once stood.

"It went right around us," he said of the twister, adding that the falling trees shattererd several windows, and there was some roof damage, but nothing significant enough to close the plant. "The front won't look like that for long ... we're going to plant some new trees and get some things growing out there."

In many respects, that's what the company's been doing since Charles Elisha Hayden left a job with the paper maker Chaney Bigelow in Springfield and started his own company, which he called Hayden Wire Works because of its primary product, wire cloth for the paper industry.

As the evolutionary process unfolded over the next several decades, the name on the door was changed to Hayden Corp., said Dan, adding that a collection of several dozen photos in a room off the conference area tells the story of how the company became a pioneer of sorts in on-site spray-coating of paper-making equipment and machinery.

Wes Hayden was an avid photographer, and he took many shots in the field, Dan continued, meaning the plants where the company's teams used early techniques in metalizing to lengthen the lifespans of metal machinery and parts.

"At that time, the company was going out and finding machine parts that had worn down and using metalizing to repair them," he explained. "If you try to weld material, the metal will bend and distort, but if you use thermal spraying, you can build it back up without distorting, and that was my grandfather's big selling point."

Metalizing has come a long way since then, he said, noting that, in some cases, products are applied with heat and force supplied by what amounts to a rocket engine, and robots now handle the bulk of the sctual coating work in the plant.

The process is inherently quite simple, yet one of the many challenges Hayden and others at the company face is trying to explain how it works. "It's a hard concept for some clients to wrap their heads around," he said. "One potential customer asked, 'how long does it take to dry?' It's dry when it's applied - it's molten metal.

"One of our challenges is to educate potential new users about what this technology can do and what it can't do," he continued, adding that the company is addressing this issue through participation in a number of manufacturers' trade shows, including EASTEC, which has come to West Springfield the past several years, and also the annual FABTEC show in Illinois.

To illustrate just how much confusion exists about the company's work and product lines, Hayden relayed a story from one of many projects at Electric Boat, this one involving organized labor.

"The aluminizing process that we apply to the submarines uses a combustion gun and aluminum wire, and we literally spray aluminum onto the parts we're covering," he explained. "From a distance, it looks very much like spray-painting because the aluminum is white. It happened that we were down there when the painters' union was on strike, and we were given some hassle at the entryway because people believed we were scab painters."

Metal Winners

While hard to explain and relatively unknown to those outside the client industry groups, the thermal spray-coating businesses is established enough to have its own trade group, the International Thermal Spray Assoc., said Hayden, and large enough for his company to record more than $6 million in sales annually.

That number has risen steadily over the years, as successive generations continued to develop new markets and new techniques. The latest manifestation of that tradition came four years ago, when Dan Hayden took the lead role in development of Hayden Laser Services (HLS). It was created to serve its still-primary client source - the oil and gas industry - and now accounts for between 10% and 15% of annual revenues. Explaining how the laser works, Hayden said it goes further than traditional thermal spraying, and is a more effective process for extremely harsh conditions.

"The thermal spray coatings that are the bulk of our business are mechanically bonded; they're very tough materials, but they can be chipped away if they're impacted or otherwise overstressed," he explained. "The laser coatings are actually welded onto the surface; the process with the laser actually creates a weld bead, so the overlay materials become fully bonded to and alloyed with the substrate. This makes for a very durable, impact-proof coating, which is especially important with oil-drilling tools that go deep into the earth and see a lot of abuse."

"It's a small business unit," he continued, referring to HLS, "but we have a good share of the market, and the market continues to grow."

And while HLS has handled mostly oil and gas equipment, there have been some interesting exceptions, said Hayden.

"The unique combination of low heat input and true metallurgical bonding offered by laser cladding makes this technique ideal for repairing and restoring dimensionally sensitive components that have worn over time, and one great example is the steering worm from a classic Deere tractor that came into our shop recently," he said. "The tapered bearing fits at each end of the worm had become pitted and worn, and the resulting sloppy fit made the steering box unusable. The particular worm gear had been manufactured on special equipment that allowed the sector shaft to follow a curved contact path on its spiral track through the worm. Not only are the pieces no longer manufactured, the unique equipment used to make them is nearly impossible to find. Restoration of the bearing fits would be the only way to recover the part.

"Using our three-dimensional scanner, we were able to create a model of the worn piece that we could use for programming," he continued. "We applied a layer of stainless steel, using the tightly controlled laser metal deposition process, and ground the overlay back to the proper size to fit the bearings. The result is a piece that is good as new and ready to hit the road again."

Looking ahead, Hayden said the search for new markets and new applications for the company's many services is ongoing, with several growth opportunities identified in everything from light rail to the renewable energy fields.

"There is considerable potential in light rail handling rotating components - corrosion protection and wear protection on axels, bearings, and shafts," he explained. "But there's also room for more growth in oil and gas, and also renewable energy as well."

All's Weld That Ends Weld

Hayden said it will be some time before there's a fourth portrait hanging in the company's conference room.

"The hair will probably have to be gray before that happens," he said, acknowledging that, in most cases, the portraits on the wall depict his predecessors late in their careers.

But while he hasn't joined them in that respect yet, he has certainly carried on the tradition of entrepreneurship and diversification that has enabled the company to not only survive 90 years and several succession processes, but thrive.

As those portraits, and Wes Hayden's pictures, show, the Hayden company is a shining example of perseverance and industrial creativity - in more ways than one.

Oil Falls After Nigeria Strike Ends

Oil prices fell nearly $1 a barrel Monday after labor unions halted a strike in Nigeria, where the work stoppage had shut down most major economic activity in Africa's biggest oil producer.

Some analysts, however, noted the market's bullish outlook due to last week's unexpected fall in U.S. refinery capacity utilization.

Light, sweet crude for August delivery lost 93 cents to $68.21 a barrel in electronic trading on the New York Mercantile Exchange by midafternoon in Europe, after dropping as low as $67.88.

August Brent crude fell 98 cents to $70.20 a barrel on the ICE Futures exchange in London.

Nigerian labor unions called off their strike aimed at overturning a government fuel-price hike on Saturday, ending a four-day work stoppage. The unions said they had accepted the government's proposal to hold off on raising fuel prices for a year, while accepting an earlier proposition to halve a previous price increase that sparked the strike.

"The calling off of the Nigerian strike is the primary news item driving the oil market this morning," said Victor Shum, an energy analyst with Purvin & Gertz in Singapore, adding the strike did not seem to affect the country's oil exports. "With no disruptions, it was a threat and now that the threat has at least been temporarily removed, crude oil futures are therefore falling."

Also on Monday, Royal Dutch Shell said it would resume crude oil exports from its Forcados terminal in Nigeria in July, but the move is not a sign of resumption of production from the field, which can produce up to 380,000 barrels a day.

"The oil will be coming out of storage in July, not producing," said Shell spokeswoman Eurwen Thomas, adding that the exports hadn't resumed in June as planned for "security reasons."

Oil receipts account for some 80 percent of Nigeria's total government revenue. Nigeria's energy industry is the biggest in Africa and the eighth-largest worldwide, and the threats to shut off the taps had earlier sent crude prices toward nine-month highs on international markets.

The market has also been fixated on U.S. domestic supply concerns, but a lack of news from the U.S. shifted traders' focus to international developments such as Nigeria and concerns about Iran's nuclear capabilities.

Energy futures rose Friday after Iran's interior minister, Mostafa Pourmohammadi, said his country had 220 pounds of enriched uranium. Investors' concern is that the West will at some point take action, military or economic, against Iran, which could disrupt oil supplies from the Persian Gulf.

Iran invited an International Atomic Energy Agency team to Tehran to work on a plan for clearing up suspicions about its nuclear program, an IAEA spokeswoman said Monday.

Last week's unexpected drop in U.S. refinery utilization - falling 1.6 percentage point to 87.6 percent of capacity, while analysts had expected it to grow by 0.6 percentage point - was seen as lending support to prices and underscoring tightness in the gasoline market.

"If every refining unit was critical to begin with (it was), each of them has grown in importance after last week's report," said Peter Beutel at Cameron Hanover. "Technically, prices keep making new highs, and we think that that combination - low refining levels and a trend higher - are enough to give Nigerian strikes and their like more significance, more bullish clout, than normal."

Seasonal worries related to the U.S. hurricane season were also on the agenda, but forecasts seemed relatively benign so far.

"With the U.S. reporting close to maximum-of-inventory on crude oil, no continuation to the Nigerian strike and no storms yet developing in the Atlantic Basin, the focus will shift even further on the U.S. refinery capacity utilization," said analyst Olivier Jakob of Petromatrix.

In other Nymex trading, heating oil futures lost 2.85 cents to $2.0095 a gallon while natural gas prices declined 17.6 cents to $6.954 per 1,000 cubic feet.

---

Associated Press Writer Gillian Wong in Singapore contributed to this report.

HAPPENINGS

For an expanded listing, visit www.pridesource.com

OUTINGS

Thu, June 12

"Band Fags" National Book Release and signing, 6 p.m. With personal appearance by New York author Frank Anthony Polito. FIVE15 Media, Mojo & More..., 515 S Washington, Royal Oak. 248-515-2551. jo@f ive15.net.www.FIVE15.net www.bandfags.com

Fri, June 13

Blair, 6:30 p.m. Detroit-based gay poet, performer and spoken word artist Blair will be performing as part of LGBT pride month. Tickets (Includes museum admission): $8 adults, $6 seniors, $4 youth. Detroit Institute of Arts, 5200 Woodward Ave., Detroit. 313-833-7900. www.dia.org

Womyn's Film Night, 8 p.m. Film: "The Kathy and Mo Show: Parallel Lives" Cutting-edge comics Kathy Najimy and Maureen "Mo" Gaffney dish up loads of laughs with a pair of cable-TV specials. "Parallel Lives" takes a hysterical look at males, females and contemporary America, while "The Dark Side" offers Kathy and Mo's hilarious perspective on religion, feminism and gay rights. Affirmations, 290 W Nine Mile Road, Ferndale. 248-398-7105. www. goaffirmatlons.org

Sat, June 14

Gary Eleinko, 1 p.m. Elelnko is known for creating paintings that use X and Y, denoting the male gene, or series of triangles. His pieces comment on such Issues as homosexuality and war. Tickets (includes museum admission): $8 adults, $6 seniors, $4 youth. Detroit Institute of Arts, 5200 Woodward Ave., Detroit. 313-833-7900. www.dia.org

Kalamazoo Pride, 2 p.m. Information tables, family-fun area, live entertainment, beer and wine tent, local food and merchandise vendors. Everyone welcome in celebrating diversity and social justice in Kalamazoo. Kalamazoo Gay Lesbian Resource Center, Corner of Edwards & Water Streets, Kalamazoo. 269-349-4234. contact@kglrc.org. www.kglrc.org/pride

Wed, June 18

Ties Like Me Gathering, 5:30 p.m Bringing together business owners, executives and management to learn how to expand their business into the LGBT community. Como's Restaurant and Pizzeria, 22812 Woodward Ave., Ferndale. www.tlesllkeme.org

Thu, June 19

Pride Banquet and Awards Ceremony, 6 p.m. The theme for the 23rd annual banquet will be "We the People," celebrating the best and brightest of the LGBT community with a dinner and awards given for such categories as Spirit of Detroit, Volunteer and Unity. Tickets: $39 Various community organizations, 26601 Ryan Road, Warren. 248-545-1435.www.prldebanquet.org

Gayla Celebration, 7 p.m. An evening of dancing, dining and socializing. A portion of the proceeds will go to the Lansing Association for Human Rights. Dinner reservations appreciated. Tickets: $5. Gayla Committee, 1115 S. Washington Ave., Lansing. 517-881-7181 anysport2002@aol.com

Integrity Southeast Michigan Meeting, 7 p.m. Integrity Southeast Michigan is a non-profit organization of gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender Episcopalians, non-Eplscopallans, allies, and those looking to reconnect with a loving God. Integrity Southeast Michigan, 26998 Woodward Ave., Royal Oak. 248-321 -5553. integrltymi@gmall.com. www.lntegrityseml.org

Fri, June 20

Cruise for a FUNdraiser, 8 p.m. Join fellow LGBT friends for a Cruise down the Detroit River in support of the Forum Foundation's LGBT Scholarship Mission. Food and entertainment included. Tickets: $40. Boarding begins at 7:30. The Forum Foundation, 13000 Denmark, Detroit. 586-573-9932. www. theforumfoundatlon.org

Womyn's Film Night, 8 p.m. Film: "Radical Harmonies" Woodstock meets women's liberation in this documentary that chronicles the evolution of women in music and culture. Featuring such artists as Cris Williamson, Linda Tillery, The Indigo Girls and Ani DiFranco. Affirmations, 290 W. Nine Mile Road, Ferndale. 248-398-7105. www. goafflrmations.org

Sat, June 21

Charles Alexander, 1 p.m. A native Detroiter, Alexander will be speaking about and showing his collage and mixed media artwork as part of Pride Month. Tickets (which include museum admission): $8 adults, $6 seniors, $4 children. Detroit Institute of Arts, 39221 Woodward Ave., Detroit. 313-833-7900. www.dia.org

Girls Night , 10 p.m. Every third Saturday of the month Tracy Mack hosts "Girls Night," a celebration of womyn in music. There will be a suggested minimum donation at the door. For more Information, visit www. sonlcbids.com/glrlsnlghtaut. 325 Braun Court, Ann Arbor. 734-994-3677. girlsnightaut@tracymack.com www. autbar.com

Freedom From Smoking, 7 p.m. The leading adult smoking cessation program shows you how to quit for good in an LGBT-supportlve setting. Classes are led by an American Lung Association certified clinic leader. Cost is $50 for members; $75 for non-members. Registration is required. Affirmations, 290 W Nine Mile Road, Ferndale. 248-677-7226. klarkin@ goafflrmations.org. www.goafflrmations. org

THEATER EVENTS

PROFESSIONAL

Cirque D'Or, The Golden Dragon Acrobats present a show in the best of the time-honored folk tradition of Chinese acrobatics. $28-$46. Ann Arbor Summer Festival, Power Center, 121 Fletcher, Ann Arbor. 5 p.m. June 22. 734-994-5999. www.annarborsummerfestival.org

Das Barbecu, A comic send-up of Wagner's "Ring Cycle" that's spun as a witty Texas fable. A regional premiere. $34.50-$38. Mason Street Warehouse, 400 Culver St., Saugatuck. June 20 - July 6. 269-857-4898. www. masonstreetwarehouse.org

Desperate Losers: Part Two, The concluding chapter of Mike McGettigan's absurdist comedy set in 2012. $10. The Abreact, Zeitgeist Gallery and Performance Venue, 2661 Michigan Ave., Detroit. June 20-July 12. 313-247-5270. www.theabreact.com

Don't Dress for Dinner, A remounting of TPT's inaugural production, the recipient of three 2008 Wilde Awards nominations. $25. Tipping Point Theatre, 361 E. Cady St., Northville. June 12 - June 29. 248-347-0003.www.tipplngpointtheatre.org

Escanaba in Love, Set amidst World War II, the Soady deer camp and Its wacky Yoopers are visited by an unexpected invader: a woman! $10-$25. BoarsHead Theater, 425 S. Grand Ave., Lansing. Through June 15.517-484-7805. www.boarshead.org

Funy as Hell, A performance art piece that uses Dante's "The Divine Comedy" to explore humanity. Adult material. $10. Satori Circus, 210 Campbell St., Suite D, Rochester. June 20 - June 21. 574-850-7222.www.myspace.com/satori_clrcus

Heart of the City Improv, Detroit's premier improv talent gathers together every Tuesday for your laughing pleasure, featuring a Home Team, plus guests. $5. Y-Arts at Boll Family YMCA, Boll Theatre. 1401 Broadway, Detroit. 313-223-2751. www.y-artsdetroit.org

Improv at the Point, An evening of off-the-cuff comedy in the style of the television show Whose Line is it Anyway? and featuring rotating casts of the best improv talent in the Metro Detroit area. $8. Tipping Point Theatre, 361 E. Cady St., Northville. June 17. 248-347-0003. www.tlppingpolnttheatre.org

In My Father's House, A minister and his family find themselves succumbing to the influences around them. With Crystal P., Detroit's New Queen of Comedy. $25. My Purpose Production, Fellowship Chapel, Village Banquet Center, 7707 W. Outer Drive, Detroit. 8 p.m. June 14. 313-445-2023. www.myspace.com/ mypurposeproductlon

Monday Nights @ Planet Ant, The Ant's resident improvisatlonal troupe, the Improv Colony, is joined each week by a Guest Team that performs the evening's first act; plus, "AntJam." $5. Planet Ant Theatre, 2357 Caniff, Hamtramck. 313-365-4948. www.planetant.com

Moonshine Alley, A once-suburban wife and mother and a man who claims to be of English peerage live in a cardboard box in a "highly desirable residential area." $17 in advance, $20 at the door. Detroit Repertory Theatre. 13103 Woodrow Wilson, Detroit. Through June 22. 313-868-1347. www. detroltreptheatre.com

Old Lady Monday, Grand Rapids newest comedy duo appears every Monday night in a show unlike any other! $5. PowerDiva Productions, Dog Story Theater, 311 State Street, Grand Rapids. 616-990-0778. www.oldladymonday.com

Panhandle Slim & The Oklahoma Kid, Jeff Daniels' world premiere comedy that tells the fateful tale of a prairie showdown between a vagrant outlaw and a singing cowboy. $20-$38. The Purple Rose Theatre Company, 137 Parkst., Chelsea. June 19 -Aug. 30. 734-433-7673. www.purplerosetheatre.org

Sarah Jean Anderson: One Pretty, Funny Girl, The premiere of a raucous and clever one-woman comedy with boisterous energy, colorful characters and biting commentary. $8. Dog Story Theater, Outslde-the-Box, 311 State St., Grand Rapids. 8 p.m. June 21. 616-821 -8955. http://dogstorytheater com

Speed-the-Plow, David Mamet's satirical dissection of the American movie Industry. $12. Detroit Ensemble Theatre, 13159 Stephens St., 2nd Floor, Warren. June 6 - June 28. 586-214-4964. http:// det.homestead.com

Sunday School Cinema, Sister takes on Hollywood in one of the "Sister" comedies in the "Late Night Catechism" series. $20. Acorn Theater, 107 Generations Drive, Three Oaks. June 13 - June 14. 269-756-3879. www. acorntheater.com

The Best of The Second City, A collection of the best skits from the fabled improv troupe. $15-$20.The Second City, 42705 Grand River Ave., Novi. June 11 - July 6. 248-348-4448. www.secondclty.com

The Little Dog Laughed, An ambitious Hollywood agent is sure she can get her up-and-coming talent his big break - If only he can keep his "sleight recurring case of homosexuality" in the closet. $25-$37. Performance Network Theatre, 120 E. Huron St., AnnArbor. June 19 - July 27. 734-663-0681. www. performancenetwork.org

World Music Tour, A high-energy multicultural musical adventure presented by Guy Louis as part of the Children's Theatre Network Saturday Series. $7 children; $10 adults. Performance Network Theatre, 120 E. Huron, Ann Arbor. June 21. 734-663-0681. www.performancenetwork.org

CIVIC / COMMUNITY THEATER

Best Little Whorehouse in Texas, A long-standing bordello lives a peaceful coexistence with Its Texas neighbors until a righteous reporter decides to close It down. $18. St. Dunstan's Guild of Cranbrook, in the outdoor Greek Theater, 400 Lone Pine Rd., Bloomfleld Hills. Through June 14. 248-737-3587. www. stdunstanstheatre.com

Disney's Beauty and the Beast, The lavish musical about a pompous prince and the beautiful, bookish maiden. $16-$18. Stagecrafters, Baldwin Theatre, 415 S. Lafayette, Royal Oak. Through June 15. 248-541 -6430. www.stagecrafters.org

Free Ice Cream, West Michigan's popular sketch and improv troupe presents Its June comedy. $10. Crawlspace Eviction, Whole Art Studio, 246 N. Kalamazoo Mall, Kalamazoo. June 13 - June 14. 269-599-7390. www. crawlspaceevlctlon.com

Hair, The first-ever rock musical is an account of a turbulent time in American history. $22. Whole Art Theatre, Epic Theatre, 359 South Kalamazoo Mall, Kalamazoo. June 6 - June 28. 269-345-7529. www.wholeart.org

Is This Seat Taken?, A rapid-fire set of scenes set in various bars and watering holes, each of which is based on a bar clich�. $10. The Players Guild of Dearborn, 21730 Madison, Dearborn. June 20 - June 29. 313-561-TKTS. www. playersgulldofdearborn.org

Jakes' Women, A successful playwright must deal with his past so he can trust, love and live in the present. $10. Thebes Players, Lowell High School Performing Arts Center, 11700 Vergennes St. SE, Lowell. June 13 - June 22. 616-897-8545. www.thebesplayers.org

HOW TO CONTACT 'THEATER EVENTS' AND 'CURTAIN CALLS' Please send all press releases and promotional materials at least three weeks prior to the scheduled event, and your story ideas, comments, brickbats and accolades - preferably via e-mail - to curtaincalls@pridesource. com or by snail-mail to Curtain Calls, Between The Lines, 11920 Farmington Road, Livonia, Michigan 48150. Unless otherwise noted, ticket prices shown above are for adult general admission tickets only; please contact the theater for questions regarding the availability of discount tickets for preview performances, advance sales, groups, students, seniors and children. Complete listings can be found online at www.pridesource.com/happenings.phtml.

ART'N' AROUND

ART GALLERIES

Ariana Gallery, "Yard Art Show" Blrdbaths, sunflowers, metal trellises and all things summer. 119 S. Main St, Royal Oak. June 1 - Oct. 31. 248-546-8810. www.arlanagallery.com

Daisy Lake Art Gallery, "Summer Solstice Plein Air Painting Event and Art Exhibit" Local artists will select a location in the Dexter Village to paint on location. A reception will be held at the gallery from 7-9 p.m. June 21 where the paintings will be on display. Free. Daisy Lake Art Gallery, 3205 Broad Street, Suite A, Dexter. 7 p.m. June 21, 10 a.m. June 22. 734-424-1363. www. daisylakeartgallery.com

Downriver Council for the Arts, "Raku at the DCA" A two-day workshop in which participants will make and glaze a clay wall hanging, then raku fire it. No prior experience needed. All supplies Included. Cost: $80 members, $85 non-members. 20904 Northllne Road, Taylor. 12 p.m. June 7, 12 p.m. June 14. 734-287-6103. www.downrlverarts.org

Downriver Council for the Arts, "South of the Border" With delicious Mexican dishes catered by Angelina's Restaurant, live Mariachi and traditional Mexican guitar music, birthday cake and more! Tickets: $45 donation. 20904 Northllne Road, Taylor. 6 p.m. June 19. 734-287-61 03. www.downrlverarts.org

Downriver Council for the Arts, "Collective Constructions" Collaborate work by mixed media artist Valerle Mann and glass artist Barbara Thomas Yerace explores Ideas about spiritual nurturing, potential, life transitions and humor. Downriver Council for the Arts Home Gallery, 20904 Northllne Road, Taylor May 22 - June 27. 734-287-6103. www. downrlverarts.org

Gallery Project, "Painting 2008" A group exhibit showcasing state, regional and national artists in a rich variety of painting styles. Open Tue.-Sun. 215 South Fourth Ave., Ann Arbor. May 1 - June 22. 734-997-7012. www. thegalleryproject.com

Kalamazoo Institute of Arts, "The Figure Revealed: Contemporary American Figurative Paintings and Drawings" This exhibition contains 50 works by 25 of the leading American figurative artists of the past three decades. Open Tue.-Sat. Admission: Free. 314 South Park St., Kalamazoo. May 3 - June 29. 269-349-7775.www.kiarts.org

Lawrence Street Gallery, "Brian Stuparyk: Hand-Pulled Prints" Lawrence Street Gallery, 22620 Woodward Ave. Suite A, Ferndale. June 5 - June 28. 248-544-0394. www.lawrencestreetgallery. com

Lawrence Street Gallery, "The 2008 Invitational" Come see the latest work of over 50 Michigan artists. 22620 Woodward Ave., Ferndale. June 4 - June 28. 248-544-0394. www. Iawrencestreetgallery.com

Michigan AIDS Fund AmeriCorps, "Operation Speak Out" The AmeriCorps Team Detroit worked with local youth who expressed their understanding of HIV/AIDS through art. Mpowerment Detroit, 743 Beaubien, Suite 400, Detroit. 7 p.m. June 12. 248-395-3244.

Next Step Studios & Gallery, "A Spring Happening 08" An annual group show of selected artists. Artists include Judy Eliyas, Addie Langford, Steve Rost and Alison Wong. Gallery hours by appointment only. 530 Hilton, Ferndale. May 17 - June 30. 248-342-5074. www. nextstepstudio.com

Riverside Arts Center, "Ann Arbor Women Artists Summer Show" A juried exhibition of women artists. Opening reception held June 6 at 5:30 p.m. Riverside Arts Center Gallery, 76 N. Huron St., Ypsilanti. June 5 - June 28. 734-480-2787. www.riversidearts.org

Saper Galleries and Custom Framing, "The Soul of Humanity: Fidel Garcia Paintings of Passion" An intimate collection of some of Garcia's first canvases to be shown in the U.S. Admission is free. Saper Galleries, 433 Alber Ave., Lansing. May 5 - June 30. 517-351-0815. www.sapergalleries.com

State of the Art Framing and Gallery, "For Her Eyes Only" The art of women by women. This is a multiple artist, multimedia exhibit including printmaking, painting, photography and more. 918 W. Nine Mile, Ferndale. May 30 - July 1. 248-582-9999.

Still Point Zen Buddhist Temple, "Does Art Have Buddha Nature?" Artists include Still Point members, invited guests and juried artists. Opening reception June 20 from 7-10 p.m. with Poetry in the Yard at 9 p.m. Free. 4347 Trumbull Ave., Detroit. 7 p.m. June 20, 12 p.m. June 21. www. stillpointzenbuddhisttemple.org

ART/HISTORICAL/SCIENCE MUSEUMS

Arab American National Museum, "Fragmentation & Unity: The Art of Sari Khoury" An artist, a writer, a college professor and an immigrant, a new exhibit that presents 25 works paired with quotations from Khoury's writings. OpenWed.-Sun. Museum Admission: $6 adults; $3 students and seniors. Arab American National Museum, 13624 Michigan Ave., Dearborn. Feb. 1 -Aug. 31. 313-582-2266. www. arabamericanmuseum.org

Cranbrook Art Museum, "Craft in America: Expanding Traditions" Featuring 150 exemplary works that explore the many cultures and movements that have contributed to the development and refinement of American crafts during the last century. Tickets (includes museum admission): $7 adults, $6 seniors, $5 students. 39221 Woodward Ave., Bloomfield Hills. June 8 -Sep. 14. 877-GO-CRANBrook. www.cranbrook.edu

Cranbrook Institute of Science, "Bats: Myths and Mysteries" This exhibit will be a one-of-a-kind showcase of live bats that will de-mystify one of the most feared and misunderstood of all nocturnal creatures. Tickets (includes museum admission): $9 adults, $7 children and seniors. Runs through Jan. 4, 2009. 39221 Woodward Ave., Bloomfield Hills. 1-877-G0-CRANBrook. http://science.cranbrook.edu

Detroit Institute of Arts, "Chinese Slat Books" In ancient China, before the invention of paper, documents were made of bamboo or wooden slats. Make your own using this ancient technique. Tickets (includes museum admission): $8 adults, $6 seniors, $4 children. 5200 Woodward Avenue, Detroit. 1 p.m. June 13 and June 20. 313-833-7900. www. dia.org

Detroit Institute of Arts, "You've Been Framed" Using a variety of art-making materials including beads, markers and colorful wire, decorate a 5 � 7 frame made from corrugated board. Tickets (includes museum admission): $8 adults, $6 seniors, $4 children. 5200 Woodward Avenue, Detroit. 1 p.m. June 14 and June 21. 313-833-7900. www.dia.org

Detroit Institute of Arts, "Like Water Drum and Dance" A Michigan-based percussion and dance troupe showcasing traditional West African drumming and dancing and original compositions. Tickets (which include museum admission): $8 adults, $6 seniors, $4 children. 39221 Woodward Ave., Detroit. 2 p.m. June 15. 313-833-7900. www. dia.org

Detroit Institute of Arts, "Islamic Decoupage" In Islamic culture, the word decoupage refers to works of art that are finely cut from paper or leather. Make a fun version using colorful papers and decorative edged scissors. Admission: $8 adults, $6 seniors, $4 children. 5200 Woodward Avenue, Detroit. 1 p.m. June 15. 313-833-7900. www.dia.org

Flint Institute of Arts, "M.C. Escher: Rhythm of Illusion" A cross section of over 90 prints and drawings by M.C. Escher, one of the most popular and intriguing artists of the 20th century. Open Tuesday-Sunday Admission: $5-$7 weekdays and Sundays; Target Free Saturdays. Flint Institute of Arts, 1120 E. Kearsley Street, Flint. March 29 - June 15. 810-234-1695. www.flintarts.org

Kresge Art Museum, "Works on Paper Gallery: Andy Warhol Photographs" 150 photographs recently given to the museum by the Andy Warhol Photographic Legacy Program. Admission: Free. Kresge Art Museum. Michigan State University, East Lansing. May 3 - June 30. 517-353-9834. www. artmuseum.msu.edu

MOCAD, "Considering Detroit" This is the first exhibition in a series that MOCAD is launching exploring contemporary art in the Detroit area, effectively documenting the recent history. 4454 Woodward Ave., Detroit. May 10 - July 27. 313-832-6622. www.mocadetroit.org

The Henry Ford, "Chocolate: The Exhibition" Explore the delicious details of America's favorite treat. Take an expedition from ancient beginnings to American innovations. Admission: $14 adults, $13 seniors, $10 children The Henry Ford Museum, 20900 Oakwood Blvd., Dearborn. May 31 - Sep. 7. 313-982-6001. www.thehenryford.com

BENEFITS/FUNDRAISERS

AIDS Partnership Michigan, "25th Anniversary Gala" This night of dinner and entertainment marks 25 years that AIDS Partnership Michigan has existed. Join them in celebrating two and a half decades of accomplishments. Live and silent auction. Tickets: $250 patrons, $125 friends. The Roostertail, 100 Marquette Drive, Detroit. 7 p.m. June 14. www.aidspartnership.org

American Cancer Society, "Relay for Life" Join teams from across the area to remember loved ones lost to cancer and fight back. Donations will go to the American Cancer Society to help work toward eliminating cancer. Check the Web site for the event closest to you. Date varies based on location. Ford Field, Northville, Plymouth, Ann Arbor and others. May 16 - Oct. 4. www.relayforlife. org

Detroit Symphony Orchestra, "Sinfonia Caliente" This year, the annual gala will serve up Latin-inspired music, dance, art and cuisine. Tickets: $250-5,000. Max M. Fisher Music Center, 3711 Woodward Ave., Detroit. 6 p.m. June 14. 313-576-5111. www.detroitsymphony.com

DANCE/MUSIC/PERFORMING ARTS

Detroit Chamber Winds & Strings, "Great Lakes Chamber Music Festival" The series will include 17 concerts throughout the area, featuring the music of Ravel and Debussy, among others. For concert listings, visit the festival's Web site. Times, places and dates vary. Tickets: $32 individual shows, $130-165 subscription. Varies, Southeastern Michigan. June 14 - June 29. 248-559-2097.www.greatlakeschambermusic.org

Detroit Symphony Orchestra, "8 Days in June" This year's theme is "The Power of Change." The festival will encompass classical, chamber and jazz music, as well as drama, film, lectures, art and spoken word. Tickets: Premium Pass $103.50, VIP Pass $203.50, single day tickets start at $10. Max M. Fisher Music Center, 3711 Woodward Ave., Detroit. June 14 - June 21. 313-576-5111. www. detroitsymphony.com

Great Lakes Chamber Music Festival, "Music from the French School of Composers" Grosse Pointe Unitarian Church, 17150 Maumee, Grosse Pointe. 2 p.m. June 15. 248-559-2097. www. greatlakeschambermusic.org

Motor City Brass Band, "Under the Big Top" With conductor and director Craig Strain as the "ringleader," the Motor City Brass Band will pay homage to the rich musical heritage of the circus. Tickets: $15 adults, $12 students and seniors. Ford Community and Performing Arts Center, 12801 Michigan Ave., Dearborn. 3 p.m. June 15. 313-943-2350. www. mcbb.org

Museum of Contemporary Arts Detroit; "Space Band" This costumed collective will perform psychedelic, improvisational music using a wide variety of strange instruments. Tickets: $3. 4454 Woodward Ave., Detroit. 8 p.m. June 21 313-832-6622.www.mocadetroit.org

ENTERTAINMENT/SOCIAL

Asiatic Acoustics Jazz Rhythm and Blues Supper Club, "2008 Little Taste of Summer" Chef Stef will be on site preparing a three course gourmet tapa dinner. There will also be live entertainment. Tickets: $20, available at the Affirmations reception desk. Affirmations, 290 West Nine Mile Road, Ferndale. 8 p.m. June 14. 248-398-7105. www.goaffirmations.org

Detroit Institute of Arts, "Marble Lounge" The edgy late-night scene features performance art, DJs, and live music. A cash bar and food are available. Tickets: $10. 18 and older. 39221 Woodward Ave., Detroit. 10 p.m. June 19. 313-833-7900. www.dia.org

International Academy of Design and Technology, "Interfaces" This annual gaming and digital media conference will feature speakers and the opportunity to learn about industry happenings. Troy Community Center, 3179 Livernois, Troy. 10 a.m. June 14. 248-457-2700.

FILM & VIDEO

Flint Institute of Arts, "Rashomon" This 1950s Japanese drama features four points of view of the same murder. Part of the FIAs international film classics series. Tickets: $5 members, $6 non-members. Flint Institute of Arts Theater, 1120 E. Kearsley, Flint. 7:30 p.m. June 13, 7:30 p.m. June 14, 2 p.m. June 15. 810-234-1695. www.flintarts.org

Flint Institute of Arts, "Blow Up" Part of the FIA's international classics series. London swings again in the thriller about a mod fashion photographer who accidentally captures a terrible crime on film. Tickets: $5 members, $6 nonmembers. Flint Institute of Arts Theater, 1120 E. Kearsley, Flint. 7:30 p.m. June 20, 7:30 p.m. June 21. 2 p.m. June 22. 810-234-1695. www.flintarts.org

Flint Institute of Arts, "So Much" An Istanbul artist goes to New York City to distribute fliers with a message about love in the world and then records the varying ways in which passers-by respond. Shown continuously during FIA business hours. Flint Institute of Arts Theater, 1120 E. Kearsley, Flint. June 3 - June 29. 810-234-1695. www. flintarts.org

Museum of Contemporary Arts Detroit, "Motor City's Burning" This BBC documentary covers the history of Detroit's rock 'n' roll legacy. Performances held after the film. Free. 4454 Woodward Ave., Detroit. 7 p.m. June 14. 313-832-6622. www. mocadetroit.org

Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts, "The Witnesses" A man and his sister become entangled in the AIDS epidemic in Paris in the summer of 1984. Tickets (before 6 p.m.): $4 members, $6 non-members. Tickets (after 6 p.m.): $5 members, $7 non-members. Film opens June 13. For show times, call film hotline at 616-454-3994. 41 Sheldon Blvd., Grand Rapids, www.uica.org

MUSIC/ENTERTAINMENT

Ann Arbor Summer Festival, "Willie Nelson & James Hunter" Tickets: $70, $65, $55, $45, $35 Hill Auditorium, Ann Arbor. 8 p.m. June 19. www. annarborsummertestival.org

Ann Arbor Summer Festival, "The Manhattan Transfer" Vocal Jazz - Pop. Tickets: $52, $48, $44, $38 Power Center, Ann Arbor. 8 p.m. June 21. www. annarborsummertestival.org

Ann Arbor Summer Festival, "Gilberto Gil and Broad Band" World Music. AfroBrazillian. Tickets: $48, $44, $40, $36 Power Center, Ann Arbor. 8 p.m. June 18. www.annarborsummertestival.org

The Magic Bag, "Lez Zeppelin" All women. All Zeppelin. Tickets: $15. The Magic Bag, 22920 Woodward Ave., Ferndale. 8 p.m. June 15.

[Sidebar]

Take a trip down the Detroit River - and raise some money for a good cause! The Forum Foundation is having their 10th annual Cruise for a FUNdraiser on Diamond Jack's River Boat Tour to raise money for their LGBT Scholarship Mission. Hors D'ouevres are Included. Tickets available at Just 4 Us, Chosen Books, Five 15 or by contacting the Forum Foundation at 586-573-9932 or www.theforumfoundatlon.org.

[Sidebar]

Editor's Pick

The Thebes Players concludes its season with Neil Simon's comedy, "Jake's Women." Jake has quite a dilemma on his hands. As a middle aged successful writer, he has mastered the word processor, but hasn't a clue about how to handle the women in his present and past. Women travel in a different world, and Jake's women may be from another planet.

The curtain will rise at 7:30 p.m. June 13, 14, 20 and 21 and 2:30 p.m. June 22 at the Lowell High School's Performing Arts Center. On Friday nights, there will be a "homemade soup, full salad and fruit bar" dinner at the high school starting at 6:30 p.m. The play is acceptable for all ages.

Tickets are available in advance at the Lowell Area Arts Council (616-897-8545) or on the Arts Council's web site www. lowellartscouncil.org. They are also available the night of the show at the high school box office.

[Sidebar]

Editor's Pick

You listen to the classic rock band Led Zeppelin. Now see the allfemale, all-Zeppelin version: Lez Zeppelin.

The hard rockin' women have been touring, including a stop at the Bonnaroo Music Festival. Now, see Sarah McLellan, Steph Paynes, Lisa Brigantino and Helen Destroy in Ferndale as part of their national tour. Hear their spin on classics like "Whole Lotta Love" and "Black Dog" and help celebrate the 40th anniversary of the original rock group.

Lez Zeppelin will perform 8 p.m. June 15 at The Magic Bag. Tickets are $15.

[Sidebar]

HOW TO SUBMIT ITEMS TO 'ART & AROUND' Please send all press releases and promotional materials at least three weeks in advance of the scheduled event via e-mail to art_n_around@pridesource.com or by snail-mail to Art & Around, Between The Lines, 11920 Farmington Road, Livonia, Ml 48150. Unless otherwise noted, ticket prices shown above are for adult general admission tickets only; please contact the venue for questions regarding the availability of discount tickets for previews, advance sales, groups, students, seniors and children.

Joseph Lieberman comes to Chicago with national agenda

Joseph Lieberman comes to Chicago with national agenda

by Chinta Strausberg

Democratic vice presidential hopeful Senator Joe Lieberman is coming to Chicago today where he'll met with ministers of all religious faiths for an interfaith breakfast held on the South Side.

Lieberman, who is making history as the first Jew to be on a national ticket, is also attending a noon rally on the Near West Side where he'll speak to hundreds of working people an families.

According to Becky Carroll, a spokesperson for the Al Gore campaign, Lieberman will talk about the campaign's commitment to fight for working people by securing quality, affordable health care for their …

Games organizers want India to move cricket series

Commonwealth Games organizers asked India's sports minister on Friday to intervene and help avoid a scheduling clash with the national cricket team's home test series against Australia.

The Commonwealth Games begins in New Delhi on Oct. 3 _ only a day after the first test is scheduled at Mohali. The second test is due to be played at Bangalore from Oct. 10-14, which also clashes with the games.

Commonwealth Games organizing committee chairman Suresh Kalmadi wrote a letter to the country's sports minister MS Gill to convince the Board of Control for Cricket in India to change its test dates.

"I need not stress the importance of not …

Wilderness glide: Sammy's Denise Marie Fugo gets a lift from skiing. (Off The Clock).(Brief Article)

As a young woman, Denise Marie Fugo was a speed demon--a runner and a downhill skier in Ohio and Wisconsin. "I really had poor form, but I skied as fast as I could," she recalls. She also was a cheerleader at Garfield Heights High School near Cleveland, going all-out jumping, kicking and motivating the team and the fans.

But bad knees, which run in her family, slowed her down. Unwilling to deny her athletic leanings, by 1990 she gravitated to cross-country skiing, where her knees did not take such a toll. Now she can ski at least five miles to her heart's content--albeit a little slower.

"I really fell in love with cross-country skiing through the 1990s," …

Anti-floods group sets its agenda.

An inaugural meeting has taken place of a group designed to stop Pagham from flooding.

The coastal defence steering group's first session was attended by parish and district councillors as well as representatives of commercial and community groups.

Among them were the parish's two churches. MP Nick Gibb chaired the meeting.

The group was set up by Pagham Parish Council to ensure that essential coast protection works were …

STUDY DISPUTES LINK OF HAIR DYE TO CANCER.(MAIN)

WASHINGTON -- It's OK to cover the gray. An American Cancer Society study finds almost no connection between hair dye and fatal cancers, a conclusion that is contrary to some earlier studies.

"For more than 99 percent of women who use hair dye, we found no increased risk of fatal cancer, even with long-term use," said Dr. Michael J. Thun, an American Cancer Society physician in Atlanta and lead author of a study appearing today in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute.

Thun said the conclusion is based on an analysis of data from 573,369 women enrolled in a cancer mortality study …

Russian gas dependence worries Lithuanian leader

Lithuania's veteran president on Wednesday appealed to Moscow not to exploit the crisis-hit Baltic country's growing dependence on Russian energy for political reasons.

In an interview with The Associated Press, President Valdas Adamkus said the former Soviet republic is likely to become fully reliant on Russian natural gas supplies once it shuts down a Chernobyl-style nuclear plant later this year.

"As I always said, energy independence is political independence," the 82-year-old leader said. "There will be some years that we will depend on only one single source ... but I appeal here to the goodwill of our neighbor that ... this situation …

FREE WILL ASTROLOGY

ARIES (March 21-April 19): "Any idiot can face a crisis," said Russian writer Anton Chekhov. "It is the day-to-day living that wears you out." Your main assignment in the coming weeks, Aries, will be to use your ingenuity to keep from being burned out by the subtle and minor trials of the daily grind. It won't be as dramatic a challenge as some of the epic travails you dealt with in March, but in my opinion it will be just as heroic.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): New Rule: During the next two weeks, you're not allowed to think any thought or feel any feeling you've experienced a million times before. If you detect one of those stale ingredients bubbling up into the mix, it's your …

Select Therapeutics announces research agreement with University of Arizona Cancer Center.(Brief Article)

SELECT Therapeutics Inc. (Cambridge, MA) announced that it has entered into a research agreement with the University of Arizona Cancer Center (Tucson, AZ) for "Evaluation of Therapeutic Vaccines for Cancer Patients." Evan Hersh, MD, professor of medicine and assistant director of experimental therapeutics and translational research at ACC will serve as principal investigator. He is a member of SELECT's Scientific Advisory Board and has a distinguished research and clinical development record in the field of novel anti-cancer strategies. The Arizona Cancer Center is a National Cancer Institute-Designated Comprehensive Cancer Center at The University of Arizona Health …

HYPERCOM REPORTS RISE IN Q3 NET INCOME AND REVENUE.(Financial report)

Point-of-sale terminal maker Hypercom Corp. yesterday reported net income of $625,000 for the third quarter ended Sept. 30, an 18.1% increase from the $529,000 during the same period last year. Revenue grew by 72.6%, to $122.2 million from $70.8 million. Hypercom executives attributed the revenue growth to its acquisition earlier this year of the Thales e-Transactions terminal business (CardLine, 4/18). The former e-Transactions business, which is heavily focused on Europe, generated $45.5 million of the $122.2 million in revenue. Hypercom's legacy business generated the rest, Robert M. Vreeland, Hypercom interim chief financial officer, told analysts during a conference call …

FIRM OUT TO POWER THE BIG APPLE.(CAPITAL REGION)

Byline: ELIZABETH BENJAMIN Capitol bureau

As the state teeters on the edge of an energy crisis, a new company is looking to send power from Albany County to New York City in one of the largest transmission projects of its kind.

Conjunction LLC's plan is getting attention at the state Capitol not only because of the amount of energy it would move, but because its unique design may defuse aesthetic, health and environmental concerns that typically fuel the opposition to such proposals.

Experts say transporting power to where it's needed is just as difficult -- if not more so -- as siting a new power plant. While plants have a few neighbors, a power line can cross thousands of properties, generating thousands of opponents.

Steven Mitnick, a principal in Conjunction, thinks he has a solution.

Mitnick wants to run a double power line alongside the train tracks from just outside Albany into Manhattan, using existing railroad rights of way. He plans to bury the cables along about one-third of the 140-mile route, aiming to head off opponents who believe power lines mar the landscape.

If he succeeds, Mitnick claims, the $750 million project dubbed the Empire Connection will be the longest underground cable system …

GLOBAL LIST OF PEOPLES IN CRISIS.(Main)

Byline: PETER JAMES SPIELMANN Associated Press

An international relief group has identified 11 minorities and nationalities it considers most threatened by warfare and oppression.

The list, to be released today, includes people in areas mired in violence, such as Bosnia-Herzegovina and Somalia, but also lesser- known groups such as the nomadic Tuaregs in the Sahara and the Rohingyas in Burma.

The list was put together by Doctors Without Borders, a relief group based in Brussels, Belgium.

"Our intention is to highlight current upheavals, to bear witness to forgotten tragedies and reflect on the principles of humanitarian aid," said Dr. Rony …

Poachers kill 10 elephants in Zimbabwe

The state wildlife authority says poachers killed 10 elephants in a single attack in southeastern Zimbabwe. All the tusks were removed, leaving the carcasses on a river bank.

Caroline Washaya-Moyo, an official of the wildlife department, says heavy caliber cartridge cases were found at the remote scene in the Gonarezhou national park on Zimbabwe's border with Mozambique. Investigators reported the animals were …

Disney going old school with new Pooh

LOS ANGELES (AP) — "Winnie the Pooh" will be back to his old self again next year.

Walt Disney Animation Studios is returning the honey-loving teddy bear and his pals to their hand-drawn animated roots for a feature film dipping into theaters July 15, 2011. The new "Winnie the Pooh," the first big-screen "Pooh" adventure from Disney animators in more than 30 years, will more closely resemble the classic short films from the 1960s and '70s.

"We wanted to create a movie for the big screen that had the charm and wit of those original shorts," said Peter Del Vecho, the film's producer. "What originally endeared all of us — adults and children — to these characters was that they …

The colleges of hard knocks. (Engineer).

Behind the environmental hype and "changing the world" rhetoric, the 2002 FutureTruck competition had a real purpose: giving engineering students the opportunity to shepherd a project from start to finish, and live or die on the decisions made along the way.

Under a scorching sun at the California Motor Speedway in Fontana this past June, competitors in the 2002 Future Truck competition ran through the last stage of this year's contest. Billeted in the capacious garages usually occupied by top-flight race teams, the competitors--engineering students from 15 universities across the U.S. and Canada--presented their vehicles for the last aspect of what had been a 10-day slog through Arizona and California. At Ford's Desert Proving Grounds in Yucca AZ, the students ran their modified 2002 Explorers on-road and off, measured fuel economy, acceleration and trailer towing capabilities, and presented their creations for emissions testing and greenhouse gas impact. At the California Motor Speedway in Ontario, CA, they lined up for design inspection, consumer acceptability and vehicle appearance judging.

Back Story

Between November 2001 and January 2002, the teams took delivery of nearly identical--only the colors were different--Explorers and $10,000 in seed money from Ford. The goals the teams were asked to reach, however, kept this largesse from being turned into supplies for a great frat party. They were: a minimum 25% improvement in on-road fuel economy; reduced greenhouse gas emissions; meeting federal Tier O emission standards while trying to achieve California's Super Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (SULEV) standards; beating a 1/8-mile acceleration time of 15 seconds (the stock V6 Explorer does …

Dunning hopes he doesn't run into Beast on the wing.(Sports)

BYLINE: ASHFAK MOHAMED

BEWARE the Beast!

That was the call from Wallaby tighthead prop Matt Dunning to his teammates yesterday ahead of tomorrow's Tri-Nations Test against the Springboks in Durban.

Dunning said yesterday that Bok loosehead Beast Mtawarira would be hard to stop because of his "exceptional" speed and scrumming ability.

The two big men will come face to face at scrum time tomorrow, after Mtawarira destroyed All Black strongman Greg Somerville in the scrums at Newlands last week.

"Beast is super fast! He is so quick! I hope I don't have to match up with him on the wing!

"Look, he is an excellent scrummager …