'Elliot' writer's opera dropped over gay character

LONDON (AP) — A community opera involving hundreds of children written by "Billy Elliot" playwright Lee Hall has collapsed after he refused a request to remove words spoken by a gay character.

Education officials said Monday they had objected to offensive and derogatory language, but Hall accused the school of having dated and homophobic views.

The writer said he had refused to remove the lines "I am queer" and "I prefer a lad to a lass" from the opera "Beached," which features music by composer Harvey Brough.

Writing in The Guardian newspaper, Hall said he had worked with the school to make other changes — including removing the use of "stupid" as an insult — but that …

APNewsBreak: Target CEO defends Minn. donations

Target Corp.'s CEO says its political donations to a Minnesota group helping the Republican gubernatorial candidate don't compromise the company's support of the gay community.

Chief Executive Gregg Steinhafel (STINE'-hoff-el) sent a letter to employees at Target's Minneapolis headquarters on Tuesday.

It says the company rarely endorses all positions of the organizations or candidates it supports, and adds, "We do not have a political or social agenda."

Steinhafel says he has been hearing from gay and lesbian employees concerned about Target's donations to a business-friendly group running ads for Tom Emmer, the presumptive Republican …

Black women: Pioneers in aviation

The first Black woman to pave the way for other Black female aviators, Bessie Coleman will be remembered this weekend during "Aviation's Pioneer Colorful Women: A Tribute to Bessie Coleman, Willa Beatrice Brown and Janet Harmon."

The tribute marks the 23rd consecutive ceremony orchestrated by aviation historian Rufus Hunt.

Initiated in 1931 by two pioneer Black aviators, Cornelius Robinson Coffey and John C. Robinson, the tribute was solely dedicated to Coleman and continued into the 1960s.

After a nearly 20 year lapse, Hunt resurrected the ceremony in 1979, adding Brown and Harmon to recognize these prominent Black female aviators.

For Hunt, it was important …

Myanmar Monk Tells Story of Killings

A Myanmar monk called for a global weapons embargo on his country, telling human rights activists and foreign governments Thursday the junta's military leaders must not be allowed to use guns against his people again.

U Awbata said he struggles to shake memories of Myanmar soldiers opening fire on fellow monks, stomping on their heads and pummeling them with batons during protests last September.

"It doesn't matter how many tears I shed," U Awbata said, speaking on behalf of dozens of monks who fled after the military crackdown and live in exile. "I cannot erase these images from my mind."

Monks initially took to the streets of …

Venture capital investments decline in 4th qtr

Venture capitalists invested less money in U.S. startups in the fourth quarter and showed signs of spreading out those fewer dollars among more companies, reflecting continued caution amid uncertainty about the economy.

The shaky economy has meant that startups are less likely to find buyers or complete initial public offerings. Venture capitalists, in turn, have a harder time seeing returns on their investments, making them less likely to invest in new companies.

According to a survey being released Friday by PriceWaterhouseCoopers and the National Venture Capital Association based on data from Thomson Reuters, total startup investments fell to $5.02 …

PLUS SPORTS

SUTCLIFFE AVOIDS SURGERY: Cubs pitcher Rick Sutcliffe has aninflamed right shoulder but will not have to undergo surgery, theteam announced today. Sutcliffe was placed on the 21-day disabledlist retroactive to March 31. During an examination in Chicago, Dr.Michael Schafer found inflammation behind Sutcliffe's right shoulder,but determined surgery would not be necessary. He can begin to throwlightly in five to six days, a team spokesman said. TARPLEY AWOL: Dallas Mavericks forward Roy Tarpley missed thismorning's practice and did not notify the team, officials said.Kevin Sullivan, director of media services, said Tarpley missedpractice and had not been located by afternoon. "At …

Family looked 30 years for man found dead in woods

PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) — Jerry McDonald's family tried to find him for 30 years, but nothing worked.

"All these years, we wondered whether he was alive or dead," said his sister-in-law, Mary McDonald. "Then, there he was, on TV."

He died frozen and starving in a pickup truck last month. His story gained national attention after he spent his final 68 days in the vehicle during a brutal winter before succumbing to the elements and his lack of food. He was only three miles (five kilometers) from the nearest town and carrying $5,000 in cash when his body was found.

Family members including his children and a brother were stunned to learn of his whereabouts after not seeing him …

France wants probe into nuclear waste sent abroad

France's ecology minister said Tuesday that she wants an investigation into reports that French nuclear waste has been sent to Russia for storage in open-air parking lots.

"Nobody has been able to confirm or deny this information for me, so there must be an inquiry," Chantal Jouanno told France-Info radio.

Newspaper Liberation and Franco-German television station Arte both reported that France stores 13 percent of its radioactive waste in Seversk in Siberia.

Sylvain Granger, director of the nuclear fuel division at French electricity company EDF, said it sends uranium left over from nuclear plant production in France to Russia to be …

Age Doesn't Weigh Down Powerlifting Grandmother

WOODLAWN, Ill. Audrey Nobbe can rack up some pretty heavynumbers: She dead-lifts 214.7 pounds, squats 181.7 pounds andbench-presses 82.5.

But perhaps the most impressive number is her age: She's a72-year-old great-grandmother.

At 4 feet, 10 inches, the softspoken woman with a halo ofred-blond curls looks more like a church organist - which she is -than a world champion powerlifter."Well, I enjoy it, and I'm doing it to keep fit and be ashealthy as I can at my age," said Nobbe, who has set records inSenior Olympics and Natural Athlete Strength Association events.In three years, the 120-pound woman has set eight of theassociation's American records and four of …

Official convicted in West Virginia mine disaster

BECKLEY, W.Va. (AP) — The only person prosecuted so far in the worst U.S. coal-mining disaster in decades was convicted Wednesday of lying to investigators probing the 2010 explosion that killed 29 men at the Upper Big Branch mine in West Virginia.

It took jurors about six hours to find the mine's former security chief, Hughie Elbert Stover, guilty on the lying charge and a second count of seeking to destroy of thousands of security-related documents following the explosion. The jury had begun deliberating Wednesday morning after hearing two days of testimony, in which prosecutors painted Stover as an obstructionist and defense attorneys claimed he was a scapegoat.

Stover …

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Stale air at work prompts more sick days

Employees who work in poorly ventilated offices are more likelyto call in sick than are people who work in well-ventilated offices,Harvard researchers reported Tuesday.

People who work in buildings where air is constantlyrecirculated may be more likely to catch a cold, flu or other illnessfrom sick co-workers than people who work in buildings equipped withventilation systems that bring in more fresh air, suggested thestudy's lead investigator, Dr. Donald K. Milton.

The findings, based on a one-year study of 4,119 U.S. workers in40 buildings, were reported at the annual meeting of the AmericanLung Association and the American Thoracic Society.Chicken pox …

MESSAGE BOARD

While no one doubts Heathrow's dismal nature, Paris Charles deGaulle airport isn't renowned for comfort or convenience either. Theairport is a sprawling mess with bad signage and long inter-terminal bus journey times. Unlike BAA, Paris's airports authorityis making dramatic steps to improve, but transfer passengers arecurrently better off heading for Amsterdam Schiphol.

Nick Biskinis, SW4.

In her article, Camila Batmanghelidjh very clearly explains thedangers facing at-risk children, and the reasons for theirsubsequent descent into a life of drugs and violence. Her KidsCompany charity is doing a great job; denying it the finances tocontinue will be to our society's cost in the long run.

Sue Dowler, Buckhurst Hill.

Who thought up the Conservatives' policy group proposal to dumpinner-city pupils in suburban schools? Bussing failed in the US, andit will fail here. Many will now simply abandon the state-schoolsystem or emigrate families with Irish ties should consider goingto Ireland, where schools are excellent.

James.

The royal family has long had a reputation for Philistinism, asDavid Sexton alludes to.

Harold Nicolson said of George V: "For 17 years he did nothingbut kill animals and stick in stamps"; others, less kindly, saidthat he enjoyed stamp collecting because he liked licking his ownbackside.

Nigel Cawthorne, WC1.

Online: Log on to thisislondon.co.uk/chat and simply select amessage board.

Text: send your text message to 81800 with the word LETTERSfollowed by a space then your letter with your name, address orpostcode. Each text costs 25p plus normal operator charges. Serviceprovided by g8wave Europe Ltd, London N7 9AH.

thisislondon.co.uk/chat

U. of Neb. board mulls new stem cell restrictions

The University of Nebraska's governing board was expected to vote Friday on a resolution that would limit stem-cell research at the university system's facilities to rules approved under former President George W. Bush.

The vote by the Board of Regents would come eight months after President Barack Obama removed government funding restrictions on new stem-cell lines.

Supporters of stem-cell research hope it will lead to cures for diseases such as diabetes, Parkinson's and Alzheimer's. Opponents believe embryos, which are destroyed during the research, are the starting point of human life and destroying them is immoral.

"Overall, the debate still deeply divides, because any concession on the morality of embryo research is still seen by pro-life people as a concession that the embryo is not a person," said Arthur Caplan, director of the Center for Bioethics at the University of Pennsylvania. "Limits on research are still seen by pro-research patient advocacy groups and scientists as putting the interests of a possible person ahead of real people, here and now, with real diseases. Those are tough gaps to bridge."

The resolution comes 20 months after a state law was enacted prohibiting the use of state resources for creating or destroying embryos for research. That law had been a compromise between abortion opponents and University of Nebraska researchers in which abortion foes agreed not to push for further legislation if certain conditions were met.

Some supporters of the researchers have said that agreement extends to the regents. But abortion opponents say the compromise was never meant to keep them from lobbying the regents for policy changes.

The resolution would need five votes from the eight-member board to pass. A split vote means the proposal fails.

Jim McClurg, a regent endorsed by the anti-abortion group Nebraska Right to Life, did not sign off on the resolution and has said he will wait to hear public comments before deciding how he will vote on the resolution.

Those on both sides must weigh moral convictions against university prosperity, Caplan said.

"With some states allowing (broadened) embryonic stem-cell research, people in the state of Nebraska may worry that they're going lose their best scientists to other schools," Caplan said. "If Nebraska had an aspiration to become a world-class biotech science incubator, it's dangerous to put restrictions on stem-cell research.

"If Nebraska doesn't care or doesn't think that's plausible, then the moral opposition to stem-cell research gets a little bit more political sway."

___

On the Net:

University of Nebraska, http://nebraska.edu/

Willie Doherty

NEW YORK

Willie Doherty

ALEXANDER AND BONIN

In Willie Doherty's new video PASSAGE (all works 2006), two young men stride determinedly along a riKidside path at night, apparently heading toward each other. Silent and grim-faced, they seem to have some felonious, or at least nefarious, purpose in mind. Our view cuts from one to the other with metronomic regularity, usually focusing closely on the subjects hut sometimes pulling hack a short distance to include more of their surroundings, which would seem to he a scrubby postindustrial wasteland. After some time, just as we begin to assume that the implied rendezvous may never actually occur, the two share the frame for a split second as they pass each other. Each casts a quick look back but never stops, moving ever-onward toward an unnamed destiny.

Over the course of seven minutes and fifty-two seconds, the pair pass each other a number of times m the same place, the same thing happening on each occasion, before the video loops seamlessly hack to its beginning. But while the tension of the situation is palpable, the men's eyes remain cold and the extent of their mutual recognition-if any-uncertain. PASSAGE offers no dialogue, no music, and-other than the swish of passing cars and the muted crunch of the men's footsteps-no sound that might provide a clue as to exactly what we are witnessing. An awareness of Doherty's specific and long-standing concern with issues around the Troubles in his native Northern Ireland does help in establishing some context for the scenario at hand. As with all his recent works, a large part of this video's effectiveness lies in its skirting of cleanly defined narratives, references-even questions-in favor of sheer, most often foreboding, atmosphere (Hoherty's 2004 show at the gallery was titled "NON-SPECIFIC THREAT"). PASSAGE is, then, a study in anticipation, indeterminacy, and the poetics and politics of the interzone or "non-place," and it haunts the memory as insistently as anything the artist has produced.

In the show's other video, by contrast, one quickly stops expecting anything to "happen." EMPTY records the exterior of a shabby-looking Belfast office building at various times of day and in slowly shifting atmospheric conditions, exploring its surfaces with near-pornographic attentiveness. Shuttered and abandoned, the tumbledown block lurks in another windswept no-man's-land, its paint peeling, its window grilles warped and rusting. Again, the only sounds are ambient and hushed: a helicopter passing overhead, distant traffic, the wind and the rain. No one is around, nor is anyone expected to appear; the hovering suspense of PASSAGE has been displaced here by something closer to absolute stasis. Like a depopulated theatrical set after the end of a play, the site feels not only used but inflected, infused with stories the endings of which we may never discover.

Both PASSAGE and EMPTY are formally elegant, produced with a lush cinematic smoothness all the more noticeable for the grunginess of their subjects, but the latter perhaps takes fullest advantage of the medium. Shot over the course of a single day, it charts the shifting light and the building's weathered textures with mesmerizing delicacy. Yet far from detracting attention from the artist's interest in, say, surveillance as an inherently politicized mode of looking (one with which Northern Ireland retains a particularly intimate relationship), Doherty's decision to linger over visual detail while allowing viewers to fill in the narrative blanks actively augments his works' conceptual heft. What Doherty provides is not a map of the interzone but something rather closer to reality.

-Michael Wilson

[Sidebar]

Willie Doherty, PASSAGE 2006, still from a color video projection, 7 minutes 52 seconds.

Home loans to minorities, low-income borrowers threatened by Bush policy

Chicago's Woodstock Institute in a report published this week said banks whose mission is to do business with low income, minority and other underserved borrowers are under attack by the Bush administration.

Woodstock Institute found that federal appropriations for funding and grants to community development banks have been dwindling for the past two years.

In a related development, legislative provisions through which the U.S. Treasury Department promotes investments in community development banks are being diluted, to the concern of low-and middle-income housing advocates.

"Community development banks have demonstrated their worth by successfully serving minority and lower-income borrowers," Woodstock Institute President Malcolm Bush said.

"It is very sad that the public policies which support these creative and necessary institutions are under attack."

Community development banks' purposes are to serve low income and minority borrowers. The nation's first, in 1973, was Chicago's Shore-bank, which has been joined by NAB Bank, First Bank of the Americas, Seaway National Bank, Illinois Service Federal S&L, International Bank of Chicago and Community Bank of Lawndale.

"These banks find it very hard to raise capital and what we are seeing are two major threats to their ability to raise capital," Bush said.

Still, their business is substantial, while community development banks command a tiny portion of total bank assets. In Chicago, community development banks in aggregate would rank as the 13th-largest lender and have a market share of loans of nearly one percent.

In the Chicago-area market, the leading lender has a market share of 9.8 percent and only four other lending institutions have a share greater than four percent.

The community development banks' share of multi-housing loans is 13.7 percent in lower-income tracts and 13.25 percent in minority tracts.

Woodstock Institute's report said Chicago's community development banks devote a greater portion of home lending resources to low-income and minority communities than do other lending institutions and make loans in significant amounts. They are growing in size, number and performance, the Woodstock Institute said.

Former President Bill Clinton set up a U.S. Treasury fund to help community development banks and other loan sources to benefit low-income borrowers, Malcolm Bush said, starting with an appropriation of $118 million in 2001.

"President Bush's fiscal year 2003 budget is still being fought over, and now it's not clear whether the new amount is going to be between $68 million and $80 million," he said.

"It's really scary news to see a massive cut for the year 2004."

Further, he said, "A revision is currently going on for the Community Reinvestment Acts regulations, with heavy pressure for regulated banks to drop the `investment test' that is part of bank accreditation.

"If they get rid of the investment test, there will be less incentive for regular banks to invest in community development banks," he said.

Woodstock Institute's data describes community bank performance in Chicago and shows that a much higher percentage of community development loans are made to residents of low-income neighborhoods and borrowers than the loans made by other lenders.

"While one would expect community development banks to outperform other banks on these measures, the degree of difference in performance is remarkable," Bush said.

The need for community banks is underscored by a disturbing fact of lending life.

"The persistent evidence of discrimination in home mortgage lending as exemplified in the underserving of key markets with competitive products and the overseeing of those same markets with high cost and predatory programs is a challenge to mainstream lenders and to community development banks," he said.

Referring to the possible funding cutback and to threatened changes in investment-test regulations, he said, "The reversal of these two threats would greatly strengthen an industry that has much more impact on the economics of lower-income and minority communities than its small size would suggest."

Though small, community banks grew steadily between 1992 and 2001.

Their number increased to 39 from 27 and deposits grew to $4.2 billion from $1.72 billion as lending increased to $2.91 billion from $802 million.

Profitability measurements indicate that community development banks are doing well by regular bank performance standards, Woodstock Institute said.

The Treasury Department's new policy suggests a backward step in encouraging minority home ownership, according to Malcolm Bush.

"I think what this shows is that the administration is willing to allow the weakening of a tool that has served new minority homeowners well. We will have the rhetoric, but not the tools," he said.

Photograph (President Bush)

AP source: Funding dispute will delay 9/11 museum

NEW YORK (AP) — A person familiar with the construction of the Sept. 11 museum in New York City says it will be delayed by disputes over redevelopment costs.

A memorial at the trade center opened in September on the 10th anniversary of the 2001 attacks. A museum featuring artifacts from the attacks was to open on the 11th anniversary next year.

But a person familiar with the construction said Monday that will be delayed, but it's not known for how long. The person spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because talks are ongoing.

The dispute is between the National September 11 Memorial & Museum foundation and the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey.

It was first reported in The Wall Street Journal newspaper.

MTV revival pulling Viacom from slump: ; 'Jersey Shore' helped network post its first consistent gain in 3 years

LOS ANGELES - MTV is finally getting its mojo back, thanks to thetanned twenty-somethings of "Jersey Shore."

Ever since its December debut, the show's buzz has been huge -even making it into one of President Barack Obama's speeches. TheJuly 29 start of the second season, shot in Miami, drew 5.3 millionviewers, nearly quadruple the original opener. And audiences havebeen staying put ever since.

"It's like a train wreck," said Tina Cordova, a Washington, D.C.-based contractor, who gathers with her "Jersey"-loving girlfriendsto watch every Thursday night. "You just can't look away."

"Jersey Shore" is just one contributor to a ratings rebound thatMTV has enjoyed since January. It marks MTV's first consistent gainin three years.

That's a big win for parent company Viacom Inc., as its moviestudio Paramount Pictures has been paring down its slate. Higherratings mean advertisers from fast food chains to clothing retailersare lining up to get on board. Analysts say that should help boostthe stock price in the months ahead.

Executives say that it's no fluke that many of its showsincluding "Jersey Shore" are taking off. The executives credit newprogramming spending and plenty of research into what young peoplewant to see: more real situations, less fake glamour and fewercompetitions.

"'The Hills' was definitely a fabricated reality and 'JerseyShore' and 'Teen Mom' are more harsh, authentic realities. And thatis what's resonating much more today," said Van Toffler, presidentof MTV Networks' Music and Logo Group, which oversees the flagshipnetwork and other channels such as CMT.

MTV's ratings had been steadily declining as some of its realityshows such as "Real World," now in its 24th season, were gettingold. Sister networks Comedy Central and Nickelodeon have ebbed andflowed for several years.

But since the beginning of July, MTV's ratings are up 22 percentamong its core audience of people ages 12 to 34, and ratings are up15 percent in core demographics across key Viacom channels MTV,Comedy Central, Nickelodeon and TV Land.

A mix of new reality shows, scripted comedies and such up-and-coming comedians as Daniel Tosh on "Tosh.0" are all helping the mix.

"Our anchor tenants in the building are connecting with theirfans," said Judy McGrath, MTV Networks' chief executive. "A lot ofwork went into it, and it's working."

Toffler said that Millennials - young people born roughly since1980 - are more conservative and family-based than the generationbefore them. He said they like to learn their life lessons alongsidemindless fun.

Edging away from contrived scenarios and extravagant lifestylesand toward regular people and their problems is also striking achord with audiences during hard economic times.

It's no mistake that "Jersey Shore's" partyers enjoy their late-night clubbing after stints working at a gelato shop, or thatMichael "The Situation" Sorrentino's formula for success consists ofsuch mundane tasks as "gym, tan and laundry."

"It's people they can identify with," said Brad Adgate, a seniorvice president and director of research at ad agency Horizon Media."Really, a part of their success has been driven by that."

Among other MTV winners is "The Hard Times of RJ Berger," acoming-of-age comedy that is a rare foray for MTV into scriptedprogramming. Audiences also have been drawn to "The Buried Life," inwhich four people chase "100 things to do before you die" whilemaking other people's dreams come true for every task of their ownthat they accomplish.

Caris & Co. analyst David Miller says MTV's ratings are as"golden" as spray tan and he rates Viacom's widely traded Class Bstock "above average" with a target price of $42, about a thirdabove the current level.

With Viacom set to renew a $4 billion share buyback programstarting in October, shareholders should see stock prices rise asprofits are concentrated among fewer shares. "We can see whymanagement is salivating over buying back stock at these levels,"Miller wrote in a research note.

Viacom's advertising revenue rose 4 percent in the latest quartercompared with last year, marking the second straight period ofincrease. Because advertising increases typically trail ratingsgains by six to eight months, Miller wrote, the recent ratings boomshould translate into more advertising dollars soon.

Aside from MTV, the Web video-inspired show "Tosh.0" on ComedyCentral is attracting more men under 34 than any other televisionshow on Wednesday nights. User-submitted clips with such names as"Giant Butt Girl" and "Wedding Vomit" suggest the kind of tawdryhumor that is making guys laugh.

Nickelodeon's dominance among pre-teens is also getting a boostfrom its new math-focused "Team Umizoomi" show, which runs onalongside longtime hits "SpongeBob SquarePants," "iCarly," and "Dorathe Explorer."

Even 88-year-old Betty White is helping grow the company's fanbase among a slightly older crowd with the show "Hot in Cleveland"on TV Land, which debuted to a huge audience of 5.8 million in June.The channel's fans, nurtured on traditional sitcoms such as "Hogan'sHeroes" and "Gilligan's Island," were ready for an original show,White said.

"There's nothing fancy or on the edge or groundbreaking," Whitesaid in an interview. "We're just an old-fashioned situation comedy,and I think that's what their audience was looking for. And I thinkthat's why they accepted it so fast."

To keep up its momentum, Viacom is prepping a ream of new shows,including a Comedy Central sports news show in partnership with TheOnion, and MTV's reboot of the 1980s "Teen Wolf" movies as a TVseries.

There's no guarantee that either show will succeed. And HorizonMedia's Adgate said of "Jersey Shore's" success: "It's not going tolast forever."

But Viacom's batting average, at least at MTV, is getting better.According to McGrath, a greater percentage of MTV's new shows arebecoming "hits," or shows that boost MTV's audience share by 1percentage point among 12- to 34-year-olds, a key group sought byadvertisers.

Toffler acknowledges MTV's success comes in cycles and tends tolull when one generation gives way to the next. For now, it seems tohave caught the next wave.

As for "Jersey Shore," season three is shooting in the originallocation in Seaside Heights, N.J.

Viewers will surely stick around for the episode featuring Nicole"Snooki" Polizzi's arrest for annoying other beachgoers last month.A bigger audience and more ad dollars will surely make investorswanna smush.

THE ASSOCIATED PRESS Nicole "Snooki" Polizzi poses on the Miamiset of season two of "Jersey Shore." The show is partly responsiblefor boosting MTVs ratings.

Crying Racism A Cover-up for Other Problems

As a person who fought for civil rights - marched, wrote letters,distributed leaflets, made speeches - who heard the Rev. MartinLuther King Jr. speak a number of times and met him before his namebecame a household word, and campaigned for Harold Washington formayor, why am I turned off?

Why? The whining of a black politician calling it racistbecause he was not elected; the excuse by a famous basketball playerwho was justly criticized, calling it racist; the complaint by abunch of teenagers who were not admitted to a restaurant after it wasclosed, the same thing; and the last and most blatant incident, Rep.Bobby Rush (D-Ill.) rising up in righteous anger saying the policesergeants test was rigged. However, when he was asked in what way,he could not answer.

It was a fair and independent test, and the only reason theywere not selected for promotion was because they did not study hardenough. And this time they did not get extra credit because they areso-called minorities.

I ride buses in many parts of the city, and about 90 percent ofthe motormen and women are black. If they are the most qualified,that is all right with me. But that should apply in all cases. Ibelieved in affirmative action in the '60s and '70s, but that time isover. This is a capitalist country, and let the most qualified getthe contracts, the jobs and promotions.

It worries me and I'm sure other people of like minds about whatis happening - the threats, as witnessed in the demands for theDemocratic Convention, the fear of employers of being sued if they donot hire enough minorities or fire an incompetent employee, the fearto speak our mind, and the recent remarks by Lu Palmer: "We're nottalking about city law, we're talking about black law."

Wait a minute, Lu. Then maybe some of the other minorities -the Asian community, the Native American community (if there is sucha thing) - might want to make their own laws. And that might lead toall the ethnic communities wanting to do the same. Kathryn Anderson, Lake View Scum Is Rising

The editors of the Sun-Times really reached their true levelwhen they lauded traitorous Rep. Henry J. Hyde (R-Ill.) ("No Dr.Jekyll in Henry Hyde," editorial, July 27). That level is the bottomof the barrel where the scum usually lies. No wonder there is somuch crime in your city if one of the major news rags condonesdishonesty and is dishonest itself. John Isaac, Hammond, Ind. Geography Lesson

We pay our elected state officials a lot of money to makeintelligent decisions about how to spend our money. They have takenit upon themselves to find sources of money to spend. Now that makesme wonder why these officials have come to the conclusion that theonly place where Illinois people can gamble is on a boat.

Don't they know that Las Vegas, Atlantic City and Reno havefound out that people can gamble on dry land? Hey, fellows - boatscan get iced in during the winter and they are hard to get to duringfloods.

Look at a map of Illinois. If you look carefully you will findthat Chicago is part of the state. Why, then, is it that they wantto allow gambling in all parts of the state and not in Chicago? Weare part of the state. Honest. And we pay taxes also. Marius Gallagher, Garfield Ridge Multiplier Blues

The problems with real property assessment in Cook and thecollar counties are magnified when we compare Cook and neighboringIndiana. It is not so much the property taxes but the total packageof state and local levies, including the much heavier burden of Illinois workers compensation and unemployment insurance.

The Cook County property tax system is further contorted by themultiplier - the commercial assessment rate is supposed to be 38percent. If the multiplier is 2, the total assessment rate is above75 percent of market value.

If the state needs the multiplier to measure tax effort fordistributing state aid, let it so do. But keep it out of theproperty tax system. Cook County is too big, its properties toodiverse, the range of economic activity so wide, pocketed bylocation. The out-of-date sales ratio studies, which are imbedded inthe calculation of the multiplier, violate the basic principles ofreal estate law.

The valuation of residential property at 16 percent of estimat ed market value is really 9 percent to 11 percent, as long as theright lawyers are used. Commercial valuations for new constructionare similarly skewed.

The county's programs of tax abatement (by lowering theassessment rate) for certain types of commercial property are a goodattempt to make it competitive. But what we have is a tax(assessment) pipeline with bends here and there - what any goodmechanic would describe as temporary fixes.

Even the bill of Sen. Aldo A. DeAngelis (R-Olympia Fields)protecting a limited class of elderly homeowners is anotherunnecessary bend. Discontent among Illinois taxpayers comes from aninability to judge their future tax bill because the course of their assessed valuation is not predictable.

The only solution is to eliminate the multiplier and freeze theassessed valuation, at least on residential property, until theproperty is sold or improvements are constructed. At that time thenew valuation, representing 33.3 percent of the sales price, would beplaced on the property. The new owners, recognizing that theirproperty had a higher valuation than a neighboring unsold property,would accept it for two reasons. First, the additional propertytaxes to be paid would be factored into the selling price. Second,their valuation in turn would be kept constant. Paul D. Speer Jr., president, Municipal Finance Consulting Services Inc., Northfield

Microbial ecology of the cystic fibrosis lung: does microflora type influence microbial loading?

ABSTRACT

This study aims to examine the association between the numbers of culturable microbial species forming the microflora of the lung in patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) and microbial loading (i.e., type[s] versus numbers). Additionally, it examines qualitative combinations of the microflora present in a large adult CF centre (n=138) in order to ascertain ecological relationships between the taxa present. The culturable microflora of sputum from 34 adults patients with CF are enumerated using a spread plate technique on non-selective agar, and the microflora identified phenotypically employing the API 20NE scheme. Microbiological examination of the 34 adult patients demonstrated that their sputum contained between one and three taxa, with a mean cell density of 8.25�0.85 log colony-forming units (cfu)/g sputum and a range of 5.91-9.74 log cfu/g sputum. Most colonising patterns demonstrated only Gram-negative infection (22/34), followed by a mixed Gram-positive/Gram-negative infection pattern (10/34). Only 2/34 patients had a single Gram-positive infection. Most patients (53%) were colonised by only one organism, with 38% of patients colonised by two organisms, and the remainder (4%) colonised with three organisms. There was no statistical difference (P>0.05) between microbial cell density and the number of taxa present (i.e., the greater number of taxa present in sputum did not produce a higher cell density). However, there was a significantly higher cell density (log 0.59 cfu/g sputum) noted for those patients who had only Gram-negative infection, compared to those who had a mixed Gram-negative/Gram-positive infection pattern (P=0.02). Relatively little is known about the ecological interactions that exist between the microflora in the CF lung. Further work is required to explore these interactions in order to aid understanding of the succession and dominance of Gram-negatives in chronic chest infections. Ultimately, a greater understanding of such interactions may allow the opportunity to manipulate the ecology of the lung to control otherwise problematic pathogens

KEY WORDS: Burkholderia cepacia. Cystic fibrosis. Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Stenotrophomonas maltophilia

Introduction

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is the most commonly inherited lethal disease in persons originating from a Caucasian and European background and has a genetic carriage rate of 1 in 20 persons and an incidence of 1 in 2500 live births.1 It is an autosomal recessive condition whereby two alleles carrying a polymorphism in the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene phenotypically manifest the disease state through a variety of multiorgan problems, associated with a pharmacological dysfunction to regulate chloride-ion secretion across cell membranes.

The most common complication of CF is the recurrence of chronic chest infections, usually caused by bacterial pathogens.2 Patients continue to suffer from recurrent and chronic respiratory tract infections and most of their morbidity and mortality is due to such infections throughout their life.3 These infections are usually dominated by Gram-negative organisms, especially by the pseudomonads, including Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Burkholderia cepacia complex and Stenotrophomonas maltophilia.

To date, the majority of CF clinics routinely monitor the microbiological status of patients through qualitative (presence/absence) examination of sputum specimens, employing a combination of selective and non-selective culture media. In contrast, there have been few reports in the literature on the microbial loading of sputum from CF patients, as there are relatively few centres that routinely examine the microbial loading of patients' sputum through quantitative conventional analysis.

Therefore, the main aim of this study is to examine the relationship between the resident microflora of the lung and the loading of these flora in the same lung. Additionally, the study will examine qualitative combinations of the microflora present in a large adult CF centre.

Materials and methods

Quantitative enumeration of the culturable microflora in sputum Duplicate sputa specimens (1 mL, minimum) were collected from 34 adult patients in sterile (100 mL) plastic disposable containers. Sputum was collected immediately after a standardised session of physiotherapy and was stored at ambient temperature and processed within 4 h of collection. Fresh sputum (1 mL, minimum) was mixed with an equal amount of Sputasol (Oxoid SR089A, Oxoid, Poole, UK) and was incubated in a water bath at 37�C for 15 min, before further processing and enumeration. Serial dilutions of sputum were prepared in quarter strength Ringer's solution diluent (Oxoid BR52). From the 10^sup -4^, 10^sup -5^ and 10^sup -6^ dilutions in triplicate, 100 �L inoculum was spread on the surface of Columbia agar base (Oxoid CM331) supplemented with 5% (v/v) defibrinated horse blood (E&O Laboratories, Bonnybridge, Scotland) and incubated at 37 �C for 48 h in a 5% (v/v) CO2 atmosphere prior to counting. All cultured flora, regardless of colonial morphology and appearance, were enumerated and the total viable count (TVC) was expressed as log^sub 10^ colony-forming units (cfu) per gram (cfu/g) of original sputum.

Qualitative isolation of culturable microflora in sputum

In order to examine the qualitative presence of mono-, bi- or tri-microbial infections, freshly expectorated sputum from 139 adult patients was examined to determine its microbiological composition. Processed sputa (as above; 20 �L) were inoculated and incubated on several media, including Columbia blood agar (Oxoid CM0331) supplemented with 5% (v/v) defribinated horse blood, chocolate agar (incubated microaerophilically in 5% [v/v] CO2), MacConkey agar (Oxoid CM0007), Pseudomonas isolation agar (PIA; Oxoid CM0559 + SR0102) and Burkholderia cepecia-selective agar (BCSA; Mast DM253E + SV22, Mast Diagnostics, Merseyside, UK). All media were incubated aerobically at 37 �C for 48 h unless otherwise stated. After an initial 48-h incubation, the PIA and BCSA plates were incubated at room temperature for a further three days. In addition, all different phenotypes from the sputum of each patient were identified phenotypically by a combination of conventional identification methods (e.g., oxidase) and API identification schemes (API 20NE, API 20E; bioM�rieux, Les Halles, France).

Statistical analysis

Statistical analyses were performed by using an unpaired Student's t-test, where P<0.05 (5%) was considered significant.

Results

Microbiological examination of the 34 adult patients demonstrated that their sputum contained between one and three taxa, with a mean cell density of 8.25�0.85 log cfu/g sputum and a range of 5.91-9.74 log cfu/g sputum (Table 1). The mean count for P. aeruginosa was 8.95�0.75 log cfu/g sputum, with a range of log 7.30-9.74 cfu/g sputum. Most of the colonising patterns demonstrated sole Gram-negative infection (22/34), followed by a mixed Gram-positive/Gram-negative infection pattern (10/34), with only two patients showing a single Gram-positive infection.

Most patients (53%) were colonised by just a single organism, with 38% patients colonised by two organisms, and the remainder (4%) colonised with three organisms. There was no statistical difference (P>0.05) between microbial cell density and number of taxa present (i.e., the greater number of taxa present in sputum did not produce a higher cell density in sputum). However, there was a significantly higher cell density (log 0.59 cfu/g sputum) noted for those patients who had a single Gram-negative infection, compared to those who had a mixed Gram-negative/Gram-positive infection pattern (P=0.02).

Qualitative examination of a larger population of adult patients (n=139) demonstrated 25 infection/co-colonising patterns in 122 adult patients (Table 2), with 16 (11.3%) patients exhibiting no significant microbiological findings. Of these, P. aeruginosa and B. cepacia complex (BCC) organisms were the most commonly isolated pathogens, accounting for 47.1% and 22.5%, respectively.

Yeasts and filamentous fungi were isolated from 11/138 (8.0%) patients. In order to understand the possible ecological interactions between CF microbial pathogens and non-pathogenic co-colonisers, forming part of the microflora of the CF lung, Table 3 describes the potential microbe-microbe interactions that are occurring in the lung.

Discussion

Chronic chest infections with bacterial respiratory pathogens, mainly P. aeruginosa and BCC organisms, are significant causes of morbidity and mortality in patients with CF.2,3 Thus, it is important that stringent measures be taken in an attempt, by both the patient and the healthcare professional (following infection control guidelines), to prevent colonisation of the lung with these and other organisms.4

Although combination antibiotic therapy is the cornerstone of the treatment of such chronic infections, high levels of resistance have been described for Gram-negative organisms once they have been acquired by the CF patient.5 Therefore, other approaches are being sought, such as promoting the disruption of biofilm formation in B. cepacia and P. aeruginosa through alteration of quorum sensing mechanisms, in order to help control bacterial infection.6

To date, there has been relatively little examination of the microbe-microbe ecological interactions of organisms in the CF lung; hence, it was the aim of this study to examine the effect of simultaneous co-colonisation of the CF lung with one, two and three taxa on microbial loading, as well as to examine the infection patterns associated with a large adult CF unit. The data presented show that the microbial loading of the lung is not dependent on the numbers of different taxa present, whereby the presence of a single taxon gave an equal loading (approximately log 8 cfu/g sputum) of organisms as when two or three different taxa were present simultaneously. This is important because it suggests that chronic chest infections in CF patients are maintained at a steady state and it may be that additions and/or subtractions of taxa present or acquisition of new virulence determinants for the existing microflora are responsible for pulmonary exacerbations and not significant changes in microbial loading.

Overall, this study demonstrates that a large number (n=25) of infection patterns may exist in the CF lung, with the presence of one to three organisms, thus complicating the antimicrobial management of such infections. However, the presence of two or three co-colonising taxa in the CF lung did not result in higher bacterial loading.

The effect of Gram-positive flora in combination with only Gram-negatives lowered the microbial loading by approximately half a log unit. Furthermore, as only 25/138 (18.1%) of patients were infected with a Gram-positive organism, the dominance of the Gram-negative flora suggests that Gram-positives may find co-colonisation hostile.

Ecological interactions between organisms in the CF lung may operate at various taxonomic levels (i.e., between viruses, bacteria and fungi), as well as at the inter-genus, inter-species and intra-species level. Such interactions potentially are antagonist, neutral, symbiotic or synergistic, as detailed in Table 3. At present, these interactions in the microflora of the CF lung are largely unknown.

However, artificial manipulation of the ecology of the CF lung could be attempted in order to achieve category I (i.e., reduction of CF pathogen cell density; Table 3). Alternatively, attempts could be made to eliminate the co-coloniser to avoid category IV (Table 3), whereby it might be easier to eliminate and displace the essential co-coloniser from the microflora of the CF lung, rather than eliminate the CF pathogen (e.g., the co-coloniser might be more susceptible to antibiotic therapy than the pathogen).

In addition, artificial manipulations might alter the physiology so that established CF pathogens, including P. aeruginosa and BCC organisms might be displaced or alternatively be prevented from initial airways colonisation, as has been demonstrated in the prevention of adherence of P. aeruginosa to epithelial cells by Lactobacillus crispatus in the urinary tract.7

In conclusion, relatively little is known about the ecological interactions that exist between organisms in the CF lung. Therefore, further work is required to explore these interactions in order to aid understanding of the succession and dominance of Gram-negatives in chronic chest infections. Ultimately, a greater understanding of such interactions might permit the opportunity to manipulate the ecology of the lung to control otherwise problem pathogens and thus reduce morbidity and mortality in the CF patient.

[Reference]

References

1 Devaney J, Glennon M, Farrell G et al. Cystic fibrosis mutation frequencies in an Irish population. Clin Genet 2003; 63: 121-5.

2 Lyczak JB, Cannon CL, Pier GB. Lung infections associated with cystic fibrosis. Clin Microbiol Rev 2002; 15: 194-222.

3 Rajan S, Saiman L. Pulmonary infections in patients with cystic fibrosis. Semin Respir Infect 2002; 17: 47-56.

4 Anon. Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection in people with cystic fibrosis. Suggestions for for prevention and infection control. Bromley, Kent, UK: Cystic Fibrosis Trust, 1-24.

5 Moore JE, Crowe M, Shaw A, McCaughan J, Redmond AO, Elborn JS. Antibiotic resistance in Burkholderia cepacia at two regional cystic fibrosis centres in Northern Ireland: is there a need for synergy testing? J Antimicrob Chemother 2001; 48: 319-21.

6 Huber B, Riedel K, Hentzer M et al. The cep quorum-sensing system of Burkholderia cepacia H111 controls biofilm formation and swarming motility. Microbiology 2001; 147: 2517-28.

7 Osset J, Bartolome RM, Garcia E, Andreu A. Assessment of the capacity of Lactobacillus to inhibit the growth of uropathogens and block their adhesion to vaginal epithelial cells. J Infect Dis 2001; 183: 485-91.

[Author Affiliation]

J. E. MOORE*, A. SHAW*, B. C. MILLAR*,[dagger], D. G. DOWNEY[double dagger],�, P. G. MURPHY*,# and J. S. ELBORN[double dagger],�

* Northern Ireland Public Health Laboratory, Department of Bacteriology, Belfast City Hospital, Belfast BT9 7AD; [dagger] School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Ulster, Cromore Road, Coleraine; [double dagger] Northern Ireland Regional Adult Cystic Fibrosis Centre, Level 8, Belfast City Hospital, Lisburn Road; � Department of Respiratory Medicine, The Queen's University of Belfast, Belfast City Hospital, Belfast, Northern Ireland; and # Department of Microbiology, The Adelaide & Meath Hospital, Tallaght, Dublin 24, Ireland

Accepted: 3 September 2005

[Author Affiliation]

Correspondence to: Dr. John E. Moore

Email: jemoore@niphl.dnet.co.uk

Rice: No. Korea must do more to earn normal ties

Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice said Thursday that North Korea's nuclear declaration is not enough for the United States to begin normalizing ties with the Stalinist state.

Rice said the declaration submitted was a "good first step" in getting the North to abandon nuclear weapons, but stressed that process must be completed before Washington considers moving beyond a preliminary easing of some sanctions.

"Before we would contemplate anything further in terms of steps for political normalization or economic assistance, I think we certainly expect to see more from the North Koreans," she told reporters in Kyoto, Japan.

Rice also said the time was not yet right for her to visit North Korea.

"It is not time to contemplate that at this point," she said. "There is a long way to go here."

Enforcers at Kilns Beat 'Lazy' Workers

BEIJING - Six men who worked as enforcers in brick kilns said they were ordered to beat "lazy" workers, who were forced to labor for as long as 18 hours a day, state media reported.

The men were the latest to go on trial in connection with China's slave labor scandal, which erupted last month after hundreds of parents complained their children were being forced to work in brick kilns in Henan, Shanxi and Shaanxi provinces.

The six men said Friday they were ordered by kiln foreman Heng Tinghan to supervise the workers and beat the "lazy" ones, the official Xinhua News Agency reported. Shifts for the laborers began at 5 a.m. and lasted until as late as 11 p.m., one of the enforcers testified.

Between March and late May, 18 workers were injured, one seriously, prosecutors said.

Heng's wife also went on trial Friday on charges of harboring a criminal, Xinhua reported.

No verdicts were reached in the court in Hongtong County of northern China's Shanxi province.

Heng, kiln boss Wang Bingbing and three employees were still on trial in the Intermediate People's Court of Linfen City of Shanxi province.

People's Daily has quoted Wang as saying the operation originally had employed local workers, but began using those provided by human traffickers last year after falling into debt.

Wang's father was a village-level Communist Party secretary, and he was expelled from the party after the scandal broke.

Different courts in Shanxi province have tried another 29 people so far in connection with the forced labor scandal, Xinhua said. No verdicts have been reached in any of the cases.

Close to 1,000 workers were released following police raids over recent months. Premier Wen Jiabao has ordered a thorough probe and punishment of kiln owners and officials who abetted their activities.

Demons closing the gap DePaul picks up first loss but hangs with No. 3 Spartans

Michigan State 89, DePaul 81

EAST LANSING, Mich. -- When Dave Leitao gets DePaul to the levelhe is seeking, the Blue Demons will be able to sustain a comebackagainst the likes of the nation's elite teams.

The Demons are still short of that goal in the coach's secondseason, falling 89-81 to No. 3 Michigan State on Sunday in the titlegame of the Spartan Classic at the Breslin Center.

But signs are pointing to the gap closing.

The story of the game is that we faced one of not only the bestteams in the country, but one of the best programs,'' Leitao saidafter his team rallied from deficits of 10 and 15 points in thesecond half. Coach [Tom] Izzo does a tremendous job in getting guysto a particular mind-set.

"That wore us down at certain points of the game, and their effortof doing what they wanted to do -- pushing the ball, the makes andthe misses -- and our guys not really realizing that it was coming atthem in waves every time and not adjusting really cost us at criticaljunctures.''

Yet Izzo has been frank in criticizing his team's sometimes raggedplay after losing last week to No. 5 Kansas on the road, and hecredited DePaul with a developing program.

You have to give DePaul credit because they did a great job offighting back,'' Izzo said of the Demons (3-1), who trailed by 10 atthe half and by 15 with 5:56 left. They whittled the first differenceaway to one at 55-54 with 10:08 left on a free throw by juniorforward Quemont Greer, who had 15 points and nine rebounds. They cutthe second big deficit to five at 78-73 when junior Drake Dienerstole an inbounds pass and hit a three-pointer with 56 seconds left.

You look at the polls, and they're a top team,'' senior forwardAndre Brown said of the Spartans (3-1), who won their 17th of 21tournaments, with this year's field including the four teams from the1979 Final Four won by Magic Johnson's Spartans team. This was a goodtest. We competed with a great team. We had a chance to beat them andlet it slip away."

The Demons were hurt by Brown's poor showing at the free-throwline and off-target shooting from freshman Sammy Mejia and Diener.

But despite a 6-for-14 effort from the line, Brown had his fourthstraight double-double, getting 18 points and 10 rebounds to be namedone of two Demons on the all-tournament team.

"I work so hard at it, but I'm so terrible at the line," saidBrown, a bandage under his right eye serving as a testament to thephysical game inside.

Mejia, who scored 11 second-half points Saturday against IndianaState, was 0-for-7 against the Spartans. Diener, the team's bestthree-point shooter, had only eight points on 3-for-10 shooting,including 2-for-7 on three-pointers.

But the real difference showed in Michigan State's ability tocapitalize on DePaul's mistakes, scoring 16 points in transition inwhat at times seemed a clinic on how to run the break. The Demonswere guilty of 15 turnovers.

"They got a lot of easy buckets off fast breaks,'' said seniorDelonte Holland, also named to the all-tournament team with a game-high 27 points, five rebounds and four steals.

Kelvin Torbert (19 points), Alan Anderson (17) and Chris Hill (15points, 11 assists) led the way for the Spartans.

City Council Black Caucus to search for new leadership

The city's Black Caucus plans to hold its own special election after Chicago's April 5 runoff election to klenlily a new leader following the recent resignation of its chairman.

Aid. Waller Burnett Jr. (27th) was elected in 2009 by membersof the City Council's Black Caucus to a four-year term, but cut his tenure to focus more on the needs of his West Side ward.

"This was a time consuming position and at times I felt I had neglected my ward, which is my first responsibility as an elected official," he said. "( will obviously remain a member and continue working on behalf of the caucus but in a lesser role."

According to Bumett. he was recruited by former Black Caucus Chairman Aid. Carrie Austin (34th) to take over the post because she too felt it required more time than she could give to be an effective leader. Austin is chairman of the City Council's Budget Committee,

In the interim Aid. Michelle Harris (8th), who is vice chairman of the Black Caucus, will be at the helm even though she is not interested in becoming the next chairman.

"I do not have time to take on another responsibility so I will not be seeking the top post," Harris told the Defender. "We will hold off from doing anything until after the runoff.

Currently the caucus is made up of 1 7 members."

Burnett said he was motivated to first join the caucus after a former white alderman told him not to do so.

'That just made me more eager to join," he said. "How are you going to tei! me not to associate with my people? I could not believe what I was hearing."

Among his proudest accomplishments as chairman was getting the Michigan Avenue Bridge downtown renamed after a Black man.

In October the city renamed it DuSable Bridge after DuSable Jean Baptiste Point du Sable, widely considered by some historians as the founder of Chicago in the 170Os.

He regrets not being able to transform the Black Caucus into a Politicai Action Committee, which would have allowed the caucus to raise funds more easily.

"This way those who want to support Black candidates could give the money to us and we in turn would distribute it to candidates much like what unions do." Burnett said.

[Author Affiliation]

by Wendell Hutson

DEFENDER STAFF WRITER

England fight back in test ; England tore into Sri Lanka's batting on the fourth morning of the second Test at the SSC - finally dismissing home captain Mahela Jayawardene for 195.

England tore into Sri Lanka's batting on the fourth morning ofthe second Test at the SSC - finally dismissing home captain MahelaJayawardene for 195.

Having taken just two wickets in the previous four sessions,Michael Vaughan's team enjoyed a relative bounty before lunch as SriLanka were restricted to 439 for seven.

Jayawardene became the middle victim of three when he toe-ended aslog-sweep at left-arm spinner Monty Panesar, which spiralled theball high to Paul Collingwood at slip.

Jayawardene yesterday surpassed Graham Gooch's record for thenumber of Test runs at one venue - a tally of 2015 at Lord's - whenhe turned his eighth hundred at this ground into a 150-pluscontribution.

2nd look for Kindle, MacBook Air, Drobo

Helpful reader Shawn Baker e-mailed me recently to ask if I still liked Amazon's Kindle e-book reader, after having used it for several months. Which is a fair question for any reviewer. Usually, I write a review after a couple of weeks of real-world testing, but it's often a couple of months before I have to return a loaner unit back to the manufacturer, and sometimes I like something so much that I just plain buy it. So I have plenty of time to really get to know a piece of hardware across a multitude of situations.

I won't tease Shawn and make him wait for an answer: My opinion of the Kindle has improved since my original review. If you spend a fair amount of time reading electronic text, there might be a Kindle-shaped hole in your life this device can cleanly spackle.

Over the last several months, I'd say that more than two-thirds of my Kindling has been for keeping up with Weblogs via Google Reader. It's the free, unlimited access to Sprint's nationwide high-speed wireless data network that elevates the Kindle into something special.

Purchasing e-books through the Kindle Store is merely a backseat feature. Analog books are still handier and a better value. Though more than once, I've bought the electronic edition of a hardcover I already owned because I wanted to continue reading it on a trip and didn't want to haul that thick chunk of wood to San Francisco and back.

The serious weakness of the Kindle is its physical build. I've still yet to figure out how to pick the thing up off a table without accidentally turning pages; the "hardcover" sleeve that protects it in your backpack is clumsy, and the cheap plastic panel that covers the battery and memory card slot keeps falling off.

Overall: very nice if digital text plays a big role in your life.

MACBOOK AIR

Taking Apple's MacBook Air on several trips really proves the strengths and weaknesses of Apple's ultralight Mac. Apple had to cut some eye-browsing corners in order to build a notebook that's this (freaking) thin; the cost here is that the Air is by no means a "volkscomputer," a machine that works well for any average user.

I'm here at a conference at the University of Colorado. I came back to my hotel with 6 gigs of photos. Dumping my photos is no problem for my own MacBook or any other notebook. But the Air has just one USB port, an adequate but by no means cavernous internal hard drive, and no internal DVD burner, so it's a game of musical chairs: plug in the camera, copy the photos to the hard drive, disconnect camera, connect external hard drive, copy over the photos, and then free up that precious space on the internal.

OK, but Apple isn't selling this as a computer for everybody. They're selling it as a machine for someone who needs a feather-light, paper-thin "real" notebook. The Air truly sets its hook in you after a month of carrying it around . . . between different parts of the country and even different parts of the house. For users whose lives revolve around documents, e-mail, and the Web, it's a machine with very few compromises.

DROBO STORAGE

I remain a fan of Data Robotics' Drobo storage system. This is the toaster-like USB storage device featuring four bays that you fill with hard disk mechanisms. Need more storage? Replace one or more drives with higher-capacity ones, without needing to back up your existing data or even power down the unit. All of your data is stored redundantly, so a removal or meltdown of one drive won't lead to a loss of data.

Its drawback is right there in those three letters: USB. It's much slower than a device that connects to your computer via Firewire, which makes it impractical for high-performance use.

SCRIVENER

Finally, I've become such a pants-wetting fan of Scrivener, a Mac word processor that almost reinvents this category of software, that I gotta fit in another rave for it. It's quickly become one of those Five Apps I Can't Possibly Live Without. I do all of my writing on it. Microsoft Word is now like an awful Metallica tattoo I wore for 15 years before getting it lasered off, only the process was instant and trivial, not painful.

Andy Ihnatko writes on technology issues for the Sun-Times.

Cardinals beat Astros 5-4

Brendan Ryan hit a two-run single to cap a comeback fueled by two Houston errors and the St. Louis Cardinals beat the Astros 5-4 on Sunday.

Kyle Lohse (7-2) gave up a three-run homer to Lance Berkman, but otherwise pitched six strong innings to beat the Astros for the third time this season. Ryan Franklin struck out the side in the ninth for his eighth save.

The Cardinals have won all three series with the Astros this season and 10 of the last 14 meetings.

Wandy Rodriguez (2-2) pitched well for six innings, pitched well for six innings. He and the Astros unraveled in the seventh, when the Cardinals scored five runs to rally from a 3-0 deficit.

Ryan Ludwick was hit by a pitch leading off the inning and Troy Glaus hit a sharp grounder that Ty Wigginton bobbled at third for an error. Yadier Molina singled to load the bases before Ludwick scored on Brian Barton's sacrifice fly to right.

Cesar Izturis, pinch-hitting for Lohse, was hit by a pitch and the bases were loaded again. Rodriguez struck out Aaron Miles, but threw a wild pitch as Ryan batted, allowing Glaus to come home.

Ryan then singled to center, scoring Molina and Izturis, and Houston manager Cecil Cooper brought in Doug Brocail to relieve Rodriguez. Joe Mather blooped an apparently routine fly to right center, but Michael Bourn dropped it and Ryan scored for a 5-3 lead.

Berkman hit his 18th homer after Hunter Pence doubled and Miguel Tejada walked in the third. Berkman drove a 3-1 pitch into the dining area in center field, a 460-foot shot. He's hit 14 of his 18 home runs batting left-handed.

Rodriguez cruised through the first six innings, allowing only two hits with six strikeouts. He retired 14 in a row after Barton's one-out single in the second.

Brad Ausmus had an RBI double in the seventh off former Astro Russ Springer. The rally ended there, as Springer set down the next three Astros in order.

Darin Erstad hit a two-out, pinch-hit double off Randy Flores in the eighth, but Bourn flied out to end the inning.

Notes:@ Astros officials said Berkman's homer was the third-longest in Minute Maid Park history. Berkman hit the longest homer here, a 464-foot shot off Tampa Bay's Geremi Gonzalez, on June 7, 2003. ... RHP Adam Wainwright flew to St. Louis on Sunday and will have his sprained right middle finger examined by doctors on Monday. Wainwright left Saturday's game in the sixth. ... Cardinals manager Tony La Russa said rookie Mitchell Boggs will start Tuesday's game in Cincinnati. Boggs made his big league debut in Houston on Friday, pitching two innings of relief. Boggs will start in place of Todd Wellemeyer, who will be evaluated Monday for inflammation in his right elbow.

Edwards speaks about Obama, Clinton but not affair

John Edwards didn't have to dodge tough questions from an Indiana University audience Tuesday, when the former presidential candidate returned to the stage three months after admitting to an extramarital affair.

The Democrat's 30-minute speech covered politics, poverty and his hopes for America and the world and he later discussed President-elect Obama and other topics from the audience.

But the half-hour question-and-answer period featured only written queries that had been submitted before his speech _ and the affair he has acknowledged with filmmaker Rielle Hunter didn't surface.

After his public statements in August, Edwards said he did not plan to speak about the affair again.

Sophomore Mariela Colindres told the Indiana Daily Student she thought Edwards was right not to address the affair during the speech.

"Nothing he could have said to make it better, plus it's a personal issue," she said.

Graduate student Kortnee Warner agreed.

"I heard about some of those issues," Warner told the student newspaper. "It happens more than you realize it. I didn't make any character judgments."

In response to questions from the audience, Edwards praised Hillary Rodham Clinton's leadership and said his favorite superhero is Superman.

He said Obama's victory showed what was right with America.

Edwards said he wants to live in a country where everyone has a real opportunity regardless of their background. "In many ways, Barack Obama symbolizes what's possible in America," he said.

Edwards also said election results in North Carolina and Indiana showed that the country was ready for change. Obama won both states that President Bush won in 2004.

He also said Obama's campaign did well by discussing the war, the economy, health care and energy _ things the electorate cared about.

"He focused on the things that really mattered," Edwards said.

He also said the intense and exhausting primary season helped Obama.

"That long, drawn-out, tough process played a role in making him a better candidate," Edwards said. "He was well-prepared for this general election campaign."

Edwards said Obama's most important job would be outlining his long-term vision, then getting global cooperation to help solve problems such as climate change, the economy and poverty.

"America cannot solve these problems alone," Edwards said.

Edwards spoke to a friendly crowd in the heavily Democratic college town. The audience applauded throughout the speech.

Edwards said young voters can make an enormous difference on the political stage and also bring fresh enthusiasm to the process.

"Your voice needs to be heard," he said.

Edwards said he wants to continue working for poor people struggling to survive in America and abroad, whether he remains in politics or not.

"That's what I want to spend my life doing," he said.

TRAILBLAZER\Hike up Mount Hollywood for the view.(SPORTS)

Byline: Brett Pauly Daily News Staff Writer

Touted as having the best view of Los Angeles - when smog allows - 1,625-foot Mount Hollywood also has as amicable a hiking trail as can be found within the metropolis.

The moderately easy, 1-1/4-mile fire road that leads to the summit from Griffith Observatory is suitable for just about anyone up for a little exercise and a lesson in geography.

"A lot of people, especially those new to the city, have no concept of the lay of the land. It gives you a sense of bearing," said Dennis Gagnon, author of the "Hike Los Angeles" series, who noted it is by far the most popular hiking destination in Griffith Park. "On clear daysyou can see the breadth of the Santa Monica Mountains, the eastern San Fernando Valley and all the way to the ocean, even to Catalina.

"Mid- to late afternoon is a good time because the sun turns the Pacific into a big mirror, almost to the point that if you didn't know it was an ocean, you wouldn't guess it."

To add a bit of elevation and roadwork to the route, hikers can park at the Greek Theatre (elevation 800 feet) to make the round-trip about 4-1/2 miles.

From the concert venue, proceed north on the dirt paths along either side of Vermont Canyon Road and turn left on East Observatory Road. Shade and picnic tables abound, providing ample opportunity for breaks and lunch. Watch for steep drop-offs on the south side of the road; erosion has taken its toll.

As you approach the observatory (1,134 feet), turn sharply to the right, or due north, and walk through the parking lot and past a snack shop to signs for the Mount Hollywood Hiking Trail and the Charlie Turner Trailhead. Turner devotes his time gardening an area on the east shoulder of Mt. Hollywood known as Dante's View.

Soon hoofers pass a grassy picnic area honoring the friendly relations between Los Angeles and Berlin. Here, too, graffiti is an ironic reminder that vandals can mock any accord.

After crossing a bridge over the junction of Vermont Canyon Road and Mount Hollywood Drive, a wide fire road zigzags up the mountain and its vintage chaparral. At the first switchback appears a panoramic shot of the world-famous Hollywood sign, situated, curiously, on the slope of Mount Lee instead of its namesake peak.

At the second switchback, a Y in the trail breaks at a big yellow water pipe. Take either route, and then return on the other for the way down.

To the right is Dante's View, a plush two-acre plot of eucalyptus, pine, pepper, palm, ice plants and other succulents that was tended for 14 years by Dante Orgolini until the former Brazilian newspaper correspondent died in 1978 and passed the responsibility onto his friend Turner.

To the left, Captain's Roost offers a cool respite. The captain's identity is unknown, although you may see a cackling crow chasing a resident hawk.

The split rejoins on the northeast side of Mount Hollywood. From there, trekkers travel a short way to the apex, a corral of picnic tables and, quite frequently, horses tied to hitching posts.

Tom Cotter sums up the hike quite well.

"You experience a beautiful chaparral mountainscape within a dramatic cityscape," said Griffith Park's senior ranger.

Trail notes: Wait for clear days for this hike; smog obliterates the view.

No trail map is required for the simple route. It can be found on the Burbank and Hollywood topographic maps. A Los Angeles city or county map, however, is smart to have for a better lock on the region's layout. Contact the Griffith Park Ranger Station, (213) 665-5188, for further information.

No bikes are allowed; dogs are permitted on leashes only.

Water fountains are found at Captain's Roost and Dante's View.

Griffith Park is replete with hiking trails, and Mount Hollywood is excellent for plotting future treks.

To cut the hike in about half, continue driving past the Greek Theatre to the Griffith Observatory trailhead, though note that parking at this popular tourist spot is often congested. The observatory is open from 2 to 10 p.m. on Tuesdays through Fridays and 12:30 to 10 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. Admission is free. Information: (213) 664-1181 or (213) 664-1191 (recording).

If You're Going ...

Mt. Hollywood Hiking Trail has several access points from Griffith Park. This route starts from the south, at the Greek Theatre.

From the Hollywood Freeway (101) south, exit at Vine Street and drive east on Franklin Avenue. Turn left at Vermont Avenue, follow it to Vermont Canyon Road and park across from the theater.

From the Golden State Freeway (5) south, exit at Los Feliz Boulevard west, turn right on Hillhurst Avenue and stop at the theater.

Allow 2-1/2 hours for the hike.

Note: The Greek Theatre is closed for the winter, but when it opens in the spring, new parking regulations might go into effect. For details, call the facility at (213) 665-1927.

CAPTION(S):

PHOTO[ordinal indicator, masculine]CHART

Photo As hikers climb Mount Hollywood near the summit, they can stroll past Dante's View, which is a veritable arboretum. Brett Pauly / Daily News Box IF YOU'RE GOING (see text)

TRAILBLAZER\Hike up Mount Hollywood for the view.(SPORTS)

Byline: Brett Pauly Daily News Staff Writer

Touted as having the best view of Los Angeles - when smog allows - 1,625-foot Mount Hollywood also has as amicable a hiking trail as can be found within the metropolis.

The moderately easy, 1-1/4-mile fire road that leads to the summit from Griffith Observatory is suitable for just about anyone up for a little exercise and a lesson in geography.

"A lot of people, especially those new to the city, have no concept of the lay of the land. It gives you a sense of bearing," said Dennis Gagnon, author of the "Hike Los Angeles" series, who noted it is by far the most popular hiking destination in Griffith Park. "On clear daysyou can see the breadth of the Santa Monica Mountains, the eastern San Fernando Valley and all the way to the ocean, even to Catalina.

"Mid- to late afternoon is a good time because the sun turns the Pacific into a big mirror, almost to the point that if you didn't know it was an ocean, you wouldn't guess it."

To add a bit of elevation and roadwork to the route, hikers can park at the Greek Theatre (elevation 800 feet) to make the round-trip about 4-1/2 miles.

From the concert venue, proceed north on the dirt paths along either side of Vermont Canyon Road and turn left on East Observatory Road. Shade and picnic tables abound, providing ample opportunity for breaks and lunch. Watch for steep drop-offs on the south side of the road; erosion has taken its toll.

As you approach the observatory (1,134 feet), turn sharply to the right, or due north, and walk through the parking lot and past a snack shop to signs for the Mount Hollywood Hiking Trail and the Charlie Turner Trailhead. Turner devotes his time gardening an area on the east shoulder of Mt. Hollywood known as Dante's View.

Soon hoofers pass a grassy picnic area honoring the friendly relations between Los Angeles and Berlin. Here, too, graffiti is an ironic reminder that vandals can mock any accord.

After crossing a bridge over the junction of Vermont Canyon Road and Mount Hollywood Drive, a wide fire road zigzags up the mountain and its vintage chaparral. At the first switchback appears a panoramic shot of the world-famous Hollywood sign, situated, curiously, on the slope of Mount Lee instead of its namesake peak.

At the second switchback, a Y in the trail breaks at a big yellow water pipe. Take either route, and then return on the other for the way down.

To the right is Dante's View, a plush two-acre plot of eucalyptus, pine, pepper, palm, ice plants and other succulents that was tended for 14 years by Dante Orgolini until the former Brazilian newspaper correspondent died in 1978 and passed the responsibility onto his friend Turner.

To the left, Captain's Roost offers a cool respite. The captain's identity is unknown, although you may see a cackling crow chasing a resident hawk.

The split rejoins on the northeast side of Mount Hollywood. From there, trekkers travel a short way to the apex, a corral of picnic tables and, quite frequently, horses tied to hitching posts.

Tom Cotter sums up the hike quite well.

"You experience a beautiful chaparral mountainscape within a dramatic cityscape," said Griffith Park's senior ranger.

Trail notes: Wait for clear days for this hike; smog obliterates the view.

No trail map is required for the simple route. It can be found on the Burbank and Hollywood topographic maps. A Los Angeles city or county map, however, is smart to have for a better lock on the region's layout. Contact the Griffith Park Ranger Station, (213) 665-5188, for further information.

No bikes are allowed; dogs are permitted on leashes only.

Water fountains are found at Captain's Roost and Dante's View.

Griffith Park is replete with hiking trails, and Mount Hollywood is excellent for plotting future treks.

To cut the hike in about half, continue driving past the Greek Theatre to the Griffith Observatory trailhead, though note that parking at this popular tourist spot is often congested. The observatory is open from 2 to 10 p.m. on Tuesdays through Fridays and 12:30 to 10 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. Admission is free. Information: (213) 664-1181 or (213) 664-1191 (recording).

If You're Going ...

Mt. Hollywood Hiking Trail has several access points from Griffith Park. This route starts from the south, at the Greek Theatre.

From the Hollywood Freeway (101) south, exit at Vine Street and drive east on Franklin Avenue. Turn left at Vermont Avenue, follow it to Vermont Canyon Road and park across from the theater.

From the Golden State Freeway (5) south, exit at Los Feliz Boulevard west, turn right on Hillhurst Avenue and stop at the theater.

Allow 2-1/2 hours for the hike.

Note: The Greek Theatre is closed for the winter, but when it opens in the spring, new parking regulations might go into effect. For details, call the facility at (213) 665-1927.

CAPTION(S):

PHOTO[ordinal indicator, masculine]CHART

Photo As hikers climb Mount Hollywood near the summit, they can stroll past Dante's View, which is a veritable arboretum. Brett Pauly / Daily News Box IF YOU'RE GOING (see text)

TRAILBLAZER\Hike up Mount Hollywood for the view.(SPORTS)

Byline: Brett Pauly Daily News Staff Writer

Touted as having the best view of Los Angeles - when smog allows - 1,625-foot Mount Hollywood also has as amicable a hiking trail as can be found within the metropolis.

The moderately easy, 1-1/4-mile fire road that leads to the summit from Griffith Observatory is suitable for just about anyone up for a little exercise and a lesson in geography.

"A lot of people, especially those new to the city, have no concept of the lay of the land. It gives you a sense of bearing," said Dennis Gagnon, author of the "Hike Los Angeles" series, who noted it is by far the most popular hiking destination in Griffith Park. "On clear daysyou can see the breadth of the Santa Monica Mountains, the eastern San Fernando Valley and all the way to the ocean, even to Catalina.

"Mid- to late afternoon is a good time because the sun turns the Pacific into a big mirror, almost to the point that if you didn't know it was an ocean, you wouldn't guess it."

To add a bit of elevation and roadwork to the route, hikers can park at the Greek Theatre (elevation 800 feet) to make the round-trip about 4-1/2 miles.

From the concert venue, proceed north on the dirt paths along either side of Vermont Canyon Road and turn left on East Observatory Road. Shade and picnic tables abound, providing ample opportunity for breaks and lunch. Watch for steep drop-offs on the south side of the road; erosion has taken its toll.

As you approach the observatory (1,134 feet), turn sharply to the right, or due north, and walk through the parking lot and past a snack shop to signs for the Mount Hollywood Hiking Trail and the Charlie Turner Trailhead. Turner devotes his time gardening an area on the east shoulder of Mt. Hollywood known as Dante's View.

Soon hoofers pass a grassy picnic area honoring the friendly relations between Los Angeles and Berlin. Here, too, graffiti is an ironic reminder that vandals can mock any accord.

After crossing a bridge over the junction of Vermont Canyon Road and Mount Hollywood Drive, a wide fire road zigzags up the mountain and its vintage chaparral. At the first switchback appears a panoramic shot of the world-famous Hollywood sign, situated, curiously, on the slope of Mount Lee instead of its namesake peak.

At the second switchback, a Y in the trail breaks at a big yellow water pipe. Take either route, and then return on the other for the way down.

To the right is Dante's View, a plush two-acre plot of eucalyptus, pine, pepper, palm, ice plants and other succulents that was tended for 14 years by Dante Orgolini until the former Brazilian newspaper correspondent died in 1978 and passed the responsibility onto his friend Turner.

To the left, Captain's Roost offers a cool respite. The captain's identity is unknown, although you may see a cackling crow chasing a resident hawk.

The split rejoins on the northeast side of Mount Hollywood. From there, trekkers travel a short way to the apex, a corral of picnic tables and, quite frequently, horses tied to hitching posts.

Tom Cotter sums up the hike quite well.

"You experience a beautiful chaparral mountainscape within a dramatic cityscape," said Griffith Park's senior ranger.

Trail notes: Wait for clear days for this hike; smog obliterates the view.

No trail map is required for the simple route. It can be found on the Burbank and Hollywood topographic maps. A Los Angeles city or county map, however, is smart to have for a better lock on the region's layout. Contact the Griffith Park Ranger Station, (213) 665-5188, for further information.

No bikes are allowed; dogs are permitted on leashes only.

Water fountains are found at Captain's Roost and Dante's View.

Griffith Park is replete with hiking trails, and Mount Hollywood is excellent for plotting future treks.

To cut the hike in about half, continue driving past the Greek Theatre to the Griffith Observatory trailhead, though note that parking at this popular tourist spot is often congested. The observatory is open from 2 to 10 p.m. on Tuesdays through Fridays and 12:30 to 10 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. Admission is free. Information: (213) 664-1181 or (213) 664-1191 (recording).

If You're Going ...

Mt. Hollywood Hiking Trail has several access points from Griffith Park. This route starts from the south, at the Greek Theatre.

From the Hollywood Freeway (101) south, exit at Vine Street and drive east on Franklin Avenue. Turn left at Vermont Avenue, follow it to Vermont Canyon Road and park across from the theater.

From the Golden State Freeway (5) south, exit at Los Feliz Boulevard west, turn right on Hillhurst Avenue and stop at the theater.

Allow 2-1/2 hours for the hike.

Note: The Greek Theatre is closed for the winter, but when it opens in the spring, new parking regulations might go into effect. For details, call the facility at (213) 665-1927.

CAPTION(S):

PHOTO[ordinal indicator, masculine]CHART

Photo As hikers climb Mount Hollywood near the summit, they can stroll past Dante's View, which is a veritable arboretum. Brett Pauly / Daily News Box IF YOU'RE GOING (see text)

TRAILBLAZER\Hike up Mount Hollywood for the view.(SPORTS)

Byline: Brett Pauly Daily News Staff Writer

Touted as having the best view of Los Angeles - when smog allows - 1,625-foot Mount Hollywood also has as amicable a hiking trail as can be found within the metropolis.

The moderately easy, 1-1/4-mile fire road that leads to the summit from Griffith Observatory is suitable for just about anyone up for a little exercise and a lesson in geography.

"A lot of people, especially those new to the city, have no concept of the lay of the land. It gives you a sense of bearing," said Dennis Gagnon, author of the "Hike Los Angeles" series, who noted it is by far the most popular hiking destination in Griffith Park. "On clear daysyou can see the breadth of the Santa Monica Mountains, the eastern San Fernando Valley and all the way to the ocean, even to Catalina.

"Mid- to late afternoon is a good time because the sun turns the Pacific into a big mirror, almost to the point that if you didn't know it was an ocean, you wouldn't guess it."

To add a bit of elevation and roadwork to the route, hikers can park at the Greek Theatre (elevation 800 feet) to make the round-trip about 4-1/2 miles.

From the concert venue, proceed north on the dirt paths along either side of Vermont Canyon Road and turn left on East Observatory Road. Shade and picnic tables abound, providing ample opportunity for breaks and lunch. Watch for steep drop-offs on the south side of the road; erosion has taken its toll.

As you approach the observatory (1,134 feet), turn sharply to the right, or due north, and walk through the parking lot and past a snack shop to signs for the Mount Hollywood Hiking Trail and the Charlie Turner Trailhead. Turner devotes his time gardening an area on the east shoulder of Mt. Hollywood known as Dante's View.

Soon hoofers pass a grassy picnic area honoring the friendly relations between Los Angeles and Berlin. Here, too, graffiti is an ironic reminder that vandals can mock any accord.

After crossing a bridge over the junction of Vermont Canyon Road and Mount Hollywood Drive, a wide fire road zigzags up the mountain and its vintage chaparral. At the first switchback appears a panoramic shot of the world-famous Hollywood sign, situated, curiously, on the slope of Mount Lee instead of its namesake peak.

At the second switchback, a Y in the trail breaks at a big yellow water pipe. Take either route, and then return on the other for the way down.

To the right is Dante's View, a plush two-acre plot of eucalyptus, pine, pepper, palm, ice plants and other succulents that was tended for 14 years by Dante Orgolini until the former Brazilian newspaper correspondent died in 1978 and passed the responsibility onto his friend Turner.

To the left, Captain's Roost offers a cool respite. The captain's identity is unknown, although you may see a cackling crow chasing a resident hawk.

The split rejoins on the northeast side of Mount Hollywood. From there, trekkers travel a short way to the apex, a corral of picnic tables and, quite frequently, horses tied to hitching posts.

Tom Cotter sums up the hike quite well.

"You experience a beautiful chaparral mountainscape within a dramatic cityscape," said Griffith Park's senior ranger.

Trail notes: Wait for clear days for this hike; smog obliterates the view.

No trail map is required for the simple route. It can be found on the Burbank and Hollywood topographic maps. A Los Angeles city or county map, however, is smart to have for a better lock on the region's layout. Contact the Griffith Park Ranger Station, (213) 665-5188, for further information.

No bikes are allowed; dogs are permitted on leashes only.

Water fountains are found at Captain's Roost and Dante's View.

Griffith Park is replete with hiking trails, and Mount Hollywood is excellent for plotting future treks.

To cut the hike in about half, continue driving past the Greek Theatre to the Griffith Observatory trailhead, though note that parking at this popular tourist spot is often congested. The observatory is open from 2 to 10 p.m. on Tuesdays through Fridays and 12:30 to 10 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. Admission is free. Information: (213) 664-1181 or (213) 664-1191 (recording).

If You're Going ...

Mt. Hollywood Hiking Trail has several access points from Griffith Park. This route starts from the south, at the Greek Theatre.

From the Hollywood Freeway (101) south, exit at Vine Street and drive east on Franklin Avenue. Turn left at Vermont Avenue, follow it to Vermont Canyon Road and park across from the theater.

From the Golden State Freeway (5) south, exit at Los Feliz Boulevard west, turn right on Hillhurst Avenue and stop at the theater.

Allow 2-1/2 hours for the hike.

Note: The Greek Theatre is closed for the winter, but when it opens in the spring, new parking regulations might go into effect. For details, call the facility at (213) 665-1927.

CAPTION(S):

PHOTO[ordinal indicator, masculine]CHART

Photo As hikers climb Mount Hollywood near the summit, they can stroll past Dante's View, which is a veritable arboretum. Brett Pauly / Daily News Box IF YOU'RE GOING (see text)

TRAILBLAZER\Hike up Mount Hollywood for the view.(SPORTS)

Byline: Brett Pauly Daily News Staff Writer

Touted as having the best view of Los Angeles - when smog allows - 1,625-foot Mount Hollywood also has as amicable a hiking trail as can be found within the metropolis.

The moderately easy, 1-1/4-mile fire road that leads to the summit from Griffith Observatory is suitable for just about anyone up for a little exercise and a lesson in geography.

"A lot of people, especially those new to the city, have no concept of the lay of the land. It gives you a sense of bearing," said Dennis Gagnon, author of the "Hike Los Angeles" series, who noted it is by far the most popular hiking destination in Griffith Park. "On clear daysyou can see the breadth of the Santa Monica Mountains, the eastern San Fernando Valley and all the way to the ocean, even to Catalina.

"Mid- to late afternoon is a good time because the sun turns the Pacific into a big mirror, almost to the point that if you didn't know it was an ocean, you wouldn't guess it."

To add a bit of elevation and roadwork to the route, hikers can park at the Greek Theatre (elevation 800 feet) to make the round-trip about 4-1/2 miles.

From the concert venue, proceed north on the dirt paths along either side of Vermont Canyon Road and turn left on East Observatory Road. Shade and picnic tables abound, providing ample opportunity for breaks and lunch. Watch for steep drop-offs on the south side of the road; erosion has taken its toll.

As you approach the observatory (1,134 feet), turn sharply to the right, or due north, and walk through the parking lot and past a snack shop to signs for the Mount Hollywood Hiking Trail and the Charlie Turner Trailhead. Turner devotes his time gardening an area on the east shoulder of Mt. Hollywood known as Dante's View.

Soon hoofers pass a grassy picnic area honoring the friendly relations between Los Angeles and Berlin. Here, too, graffiti is an ironic reminder that vandals can mock any accord.

After crossing a bridge over the junction of Vermont Canyon Road and Mount Hollywood Drive, a wide fire road zigzags up the mountain and its vintage chaparral. At the first switchback appears a panoramic shot of the world-famous Hollywood sign, situated, curiously, on the slope of Mount Lee instead of its namesake peak.

At the second switchback, a Y in the trail breaks at a big yellow water pipe. Take either route, and then return on the other for the way down.

To the right is Dante's View, a plush two-acre plot of eucalyptus, pine, pepper, palm, ice plants and other succulents that was tended for 14 years by Dante Orgolini until the former Brazilian newspaper correspondent died in 1978 and passed the responsibility onto his friend Turner.

To the left, Captain's Roost offers a cool respite. The captain's identity is unknown, although you may see a cackling crow chasing a resident hawk.

The split rejoins on the northeast side of Mount Hollywood. From there, trekkers travel a short way to the apex, a corral of picnic tables and, quite frequently, horses tied to hitching posts.

Tom Cotter sums up the hike quite well.

"You experience a beautiful chaparral mountainscape within a dramatic cityscape," said Griffith Park's senior ranger.

Trail notes: Wait for clear days for this hike; smog obliterates the view.

No trail map is required for the simple route. It can be found on the Burbank and Hollywood topographic maps. A Los Angeles city or county map, however, is smart to have for a better lock on the region's layout. Contact the Griffith Park Ranger Station, (213) 665-5188, for further information.

No bikes are allowed; dogs are permitted on leashes only.

Water fountains are found at Captain's Roost and Dante's View.

Griffith Park is replete with hiking trails, and Mount Hollywood is excellent for plotting future treks.

To cut the hike in about half, continue driving past the Greek Theatre to the Griffith Observatory trailhead, though note that parking at this popular tourist spot is often congested. The observatory is open from 2 to 10 p.m. on Tuesdays through Fridays and 12:30 to 10 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. Admission is free. Information: (213) 664-1181 or (213) 664-1191 (recording).

If You're Going ...

Mt. Hollywood Hiking Trail has several access points from Griffith Park. This route starts from the south, at the Greek Theatre.

From the Hollywood Freeway (101) south, exit at Vine Street and drive east on Franklin Avenue. Turn left at Vermont Avenue, follow it to Vermont Canyon Road and park across from the theater.

From the Golden State Freeway (5) south, exit at Los Feliz Boulevard west, turn right on Hillhurst Avenue and stop at the theater.

Allow 2-1/2 hours for the hike.

Note: The Greek Theatre is closed for the winter, but when it opens in the spring, new parking regulations might go into effect. For details, call the facility at (213) 665-1927.

CAPTION(S):

PHOTO[ordinal indicator, masculine]CHART

Photo As hikers climb Mount Hollywood near the summit, they can stroll past Dante's View, which is a veritable arboretum. Brett Pauly / Daily News Box IF YOU'RE GOING (see text)

TRAILBLAZER\Hike up Mount Hollywood for the view.(SPORTS)

Byline: Brett Pauly Daily News Staff Writer

Touted as having the best view of Los Angeles - when smog allows - 1,625-foot Mount Hollywood also has as amicable a hiking trail as can be found within the metropolis.

The moderately easy, 1-1/4-mile fire road that leads to the summit from Griffith Observatory is suitable for just about anyone up for a little exercise and a lesson in geography.

"A lot of people, especially those new to the city, have no concept of the lay of the land. It gives you a sense of bearing," said Dennis Gagnon, author of the "Hike Los Angeles" series, who noted it is by far the most popular hiking destination in Griffith Park. "On clear daysyou can see the breadth of the Santa Monica Mountains, the eastern San Fernando Valley and all the way to the ocean, even to Catalina.

"Mid- to late afternoon is a good time because the sun turns the Pacific into a big mirror, almost to the point that if you didn't know it was an ocean, you wouldn't guess it."

To add a bit of elevation and roadwork to the route, hikers can park at the Greek Theatre (elevation 800 feet) to make the round-trip about 4-1/2 miles.

From the concert venue, proceed north on the dirt paths along either side of Vermont Canyon Road and turn left on East Observatory Road. Shade and picnic tables abound, providing ample opportunity for breaks and lunch. Watch for steep drop-offs on the south side of the road; erosion has taken its toll.

As you approach the observatory (1,134 feet), turn sharply to the right, or due north, and walk through the parking lot and past a snack shop to signs for the Mount Hollywood Hiking Trail and the Charlie Turner Trailhead. Turner devotes his time gardening an area on the east shoulder of Mt. Hollywood known as Dante's View.

Soon hoofers pass a grassy picnic area honoring the friendly relations between Los Angeles and Berlin. Here, too, graffiti is an ironic reminder that vandals can mock any accord.

After crossing a bridge over the junction of Vermont Canyon Road and Mount Hollywood Drive, a wide fire road zigzags up the mountain and its vintage chaparral. At the first switchback appears a panoramic shot of the world-famous Hollywood sign, situated, curiously, on the slope of Mount Lee instead of its namesake peak.

At the second switchback, a Y in the trail breaks at a big yellow water pipe. Take either route, and then return on the other for the way down.

To the right is Dante's View, a plush two-acre plot of eucalyptus, pine, pepper, palm, ice plants and other succulents that was tended for 14 years by Dante Orgolini until the former Brazilian newspaper correspondent died in 1978 and passed the responsibility onto his friend Turner.

To the left, Captain's Roost offers a cool respite. The captain's identity is unknown, although you may see a cackling crow chasing a resident hawk.

The split rejoins on the northeast side of Mount Hollywood. From there, trekkers travel a short way to the apex, a corral of picnic tables and, quite frequently, horses tied to hitching posts.

Tom Cotter sums up the hike quite well.

"You experience a beautiful chaparral mountainscape within a dramatic cityscape," said Griffith Park's senior ranger.

Trail notes: Wait for clear days for this hike; smog obliterates the view.

No trail map is required for the simple route. It can be found on the Burbank and Hollywood topographic maps. A Los Angeles city or county map, however, is smart to have for a better lock on the region's layout. Contact the Griffith Park Ranger Station, (213) 665-5188, for further information.

No bikes are allowed; dogs are permitted on leashes only.

Water fountains are found at Captain's Roost and Dante's View.

Griffith Park is replete with hiking trails, and Mount Hollywood is excellent for plotting future treks.

To cut the hike in about half, continue driving past the Greek Theatre to the Griffith Observatory trailhead, though note that parking at this popular tourist spot is often congested. The observatory is open from 2 to 10 p.m. on Tuesdays through Fridays and 12:30 to 10 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. Admission is free. Information: (213) 664-1181 or (213) 664-1191 (recording).

If You're Going ...

Mt. Hollywood Hiking Trail has several access points from Griffith Park. This route starts from the south, at the Greek Theatre.

From the Hollywood Freeway (101) south, exit at Vine Street and drive east on Franklin Avenue. Turn left at Vermont Avenue, follow it to Vermont Canyon Road and park across from the theater.

From the Golden State Freeway (5) south, exit at Los Feliz Boulevard west, turn right on Hillhurst Avenue and stop at the theater.

Allow 2-1/2 hours for the hike.

Note: The Greek Theatre is closed for the winter, but when it opens in the spring, new parking regulations might go into effect. For details, call the facility at (213) 665-1927.

CAPTION(S):

PHOTO[ordinal indicator, masculine]CHART

Photo As hikers climb Mount Hollywood near the summit, they can stroll past Dante's View, which is a veritable arboretum. Brett Pauly / Daily News Box IF YOU'RE GOING (see text)