Expos' bunt fouls up Cubs in 10th inning

Expos 5 Cubs 4

MONTREAL Last season isn't completely forgotten. Kevin Orie hadit seared into his mind what happens when a third baseman lets a bunthugging the foul line get behind him. You do recall that buntdouble, just another of 1997's many-splendored Cubs catastrophes?

"I'm not going to take a chance again," Orie explained. "That'swhy I went ahead and grabbed it.""It" was DaRond Stovall's bunt single in Saturday's 10th inning.And "it" was the beginning of the end for the Cubs in Montreal's 5-4victory. In your easy chair watching on TV, you can imagine thatball should go foul in another couple bounces. But Orie didn't havethe luxury of pause and ponder with the hard-hit bunt on the line.Orie believes he made a better decision than first-base umpireFrank Pulli, who called Stovall safe. "He was out," Orie said. "Iguess it's a game of inches. Stuff happens."The bunt put Expos at first and second with none out, andVladimir Guerrero's double to center against Terry Adams finished offthe Cubs. They had set themselves up for downfall by repeatedoffensive failures down the stretch."We needed that one extra hit a couple different times and wedidn't get it," Jeff Blauser said.You might ask why manager Jim Riggleman didn't have Blauser buntBrant Brown to second base in the ninth after Brown led with asingle. That would have set up a RBI situation for Mark Grace, whosingled to right. It was only good enough to get Brown to thirdsince Blauser struck out."Two reasons," Riggleman said, explaining why Blauser didn'tbunt. "It's hard to bunt against those hard throwers (relieverUgueth Urbina). And even if he does move him over, Grace might notget much to hit there with a man on second."Sammy Sosa was 3-for-3 with a walk, including a homer, when hecame up in the ninth with one out and runners at first and third.Urbina struck him out on a pitch up and in.In the sixth, with Cubs at second and third and one out, JoseHernandez whiffed on a Carlos Perez changeup. Perez fanned only twoCubs during his six innings, but this one was crucial."I get those two runs home and we're more comfortable," Hernandezsaid of missing a chance for a 5-2 lead. "Perez changes speeds realgood."Mickey Morandini failed to sacrifice in the eighth inning,arguing the second-strike call with home-plate umpire Bruce Dreckman,who claimed that an inside pitch ticked the bat. Morandini thenrolled into a double play."We're disappointed, but we can't be too upset," Blauser said.This was the Expos' first victory over the Cubs in six tries thisyear. When the Cubs' first four batters opened the game with hitsfor a 2-0 lead, it looked as if the Cubs were picking up where theyleft off in Friday's 13-0 rout.But even Henry Rodriguez cooled off. He began the day in rareair - eighth on the NL list of hardest to fan with two strikeouts in31 at-bats. But the former Expos outfielder struck out twice in thisgame."We let it get away from us long before (the 10th)," Rigglemansaid.The Cubs are now 1-8 in their last nine games in Montreal. Theyshould remember that when they start to think how good it feels to be8-3. That'll stop this slip from becoming a slide.

RAIN or SHINE Spring is here -- whatever the weather

It's the first day of spring -- can April showers and May flowersbe far behind?

Not to mention relaxing days at the swimming pool or on the golfcourse.

We've assembled some products to get you in the mood.

They're especially designed to celebrate, either rain or shine.

Keeping dry

When we think of rain, we think of Totes -- a company locatedright down the road in Cincinnati. Among its most interesting newproducts are:

The Senz, (pictured at the top) umbrella is aerodynamicallydesigned to cut through and deflect the wind, withstanding a windspeed of up to 70 mph. These umbrellas have an asymmetrical canopyshape that resembles an airplane wing, reinforcing rib configurationand special foam grip handle. ($55)

The Eco 'brella, the company's automatic open/closeenvironmentally responsible umbrella, features a canopy made of 100percent recycled Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) plastic bottles.($30)

The Rihanna collection was created by R&B Grammy-winner Rihannaand inspired by her hit, "Umbrella." The line includes four umbrellastyles that come in metallic color combinations and patterns. Italso includes Rihanna removable charms for a belt, bracelet, keychain or other accessory. They sell for $20.

Totes products are available at Macy's and totes.com.

Puddles beware

Rain boots can be fun and funky, too. These waterproof boots byKamik are made of recyclable material and are available at DSW,Nordstrom and at zappos.com. They retail for $60.

For rainy days

Kids get a kick out of getting decked out for a rainy day. Rain &Shine Boots from Lands' End come in a variety of prints andpatterns. They have rectangular side grips sized for little handsand are anti-microbial to help get rid of stinky odors ($25).Available at Lands' End, (800) 800-5800 or at www.landsend.com.

Waterproof print rain slicker ($38) and matching rain hat($14.50) features chin straps to keep everything secure in windyweather. Available at Lands' End, (800) 800-5800 or atwww.landsend.com.

A sure sign of spring

Leather flip-flops come in blue, pink, green and orange and sellfor $24.50 at Te Gap.

For rain or shine

These clear sunglasses will work on both gloomy ad sunny days. ByFossil, they"re $26-$48 at Elder-Beerman.

Ride in style

What could be better than a sunny spring or summer day on yourtricycle? This Grow-With-Me Trike from Fisher-Price is designed forkids ages 2-6 and features easy-grip handlebars, slip-resistantpedals and durable tires. In the upmost position, the trike can beused as a traditional trike. In the lower positions, the trike canbe used as an older "Low Rider" with the oversized front wheel,which enables the child to pedal at a higher rate of speed.Available soon at toy stores. ($24.99)

Keeping Fido dry

The Ohio State hooded nylon rain slicker has reflective trim soyou can see your dog in the dark. Velcro adjustable straps connectunder the belly and chest. It's $17.95-$19.95 at Moochie & Co. atThe Greene. The store also sells pet sunscreen and sunglasses.

Neoprene boots protect your pets' paws in the rain. A zipper andVelcro straps keep the boot from falling off the paw. Priced at$13.97-$20.97 from Moochie & Co. at The Greene.

Carry-all

A sunny day means toting all your goodies to the pool or thetennis courts. This twill floral tote is $39.50 at The Gap.

Time for a sundress

This multicolor halter patchwork patio dress is designed with themom-to-be in mind. It's $44.98 at Motherhood Maternity at the DaytonMall and the Mall at Fairfield Commons.

Get into the trenches

You'll be seeing lots of oversized floral prints this season. Thelined Gardenia Trench Coat is double-breasted and features longsleeves with buckle detail at the cuffs and an adjustable tie belt.It's $79.95 at Avenue.

Anchors away

Nothing says springtime like nautical themes. This cotton jerseystriped anchor shirt in chili and white, by Nautica, is $44 atMacy's.

Protecting our skin

It's important to protect our skin yearround, but especiallycrucial as we start spending more time in the sun. We askedCosmetics Cop Paula Begoin to choose a few of her favorite drugstore products that do a good job of taking care of our skin. Tolearn more, you can sign up for Paula's free beauty newsletter atwww.cosmeticscop.com.

Drugstore daytime moisturizer sunscreens

Almay Daily Moisturizer for Normal/ Combo Skin with Grape SeedSPF 15 ($11.99 for 4 ounces), Dove Energy Glow BrighteningMoisturizer SPF 15 ($10.99 for 1.7 ounce), Olay Regenerist UVDefense Regenerating Lotion SPF 15 ($18.99 for 2.5 ounces).

Drugstore sunscreens (face and body)

Almay Sun Protector for Body SPF 30 ($8.99 for 4.2 ounces), JasonNatural Sunbrellas Complete Sunblock SPF 26 ($11 for 4 ounces),Neutrogena Age Shield Sunblock SPF 30 ($9.99 for 4 ounces),Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunblock SPF 45 ($9.99 for 3ounces).

Drugstore lip balms with sunscreen

Blistex Clear Advance SPF 30 ($1.89 for 0.15 ounce), Blistex ProCare SPF 30 ($2.49 for 0.16 ounce), Kiss My Face Vanilla HoneyOrganic Lip Balm SPF 15 ($3.50 for 0.15 ounce).

Drugstore foundations with sunscreen

L'Oreal True Match Super Blendable Makeup SPF 17 ($9.99), RevlonColorStay Active Light Makeup SPF 25 ($12.99), Cover Girl AquaSmoothMakeup SPF 15 ($8.50)

Contact this reporter at (937) 225-2440 ormmoss@DaytonDailyNews.com.

RAIN or SHINE Spring is here -- whatever the weather

It's the first day of spring -- can April showers and May flowersbe far behind?

Not to mention relaxing days at the swimming pool or on the golfcourse.

We've assembled some products to get you in the mood.

They're especially designed to celebrate, either rain or shine.

Keeping dry

When we think of rain, we think of Totes -- a company locatedright down the road in Cincinnati. Among its most interesting newproducts are:

The Senz, (pictured at the top) umbrella is aerodynamicallydesigned to cut through and deflect the wind, withstanding a windspeed of up to 70 mph. These umbrellas have an asymmetrical canopyshape that resembles an airplane wing, reinforcing rib configurationand special foam grip handle. ($55)

The Eco 'brella, the company's automatic open/closeenvironmentally responsible umbrella, features a canopy made of 100percent recycled Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) plastic bottles.($30)

The Rihanna collection was created by R&B Grammy-winner Rihannaand inspired by her hit, "Umbrella." The line includes four umbrellastyles that come in metallic color combinations and patterns. Italso includes Rihanna removable charms for a belt, bracelet, keychain or other accessory. They sell for $20.

Totes products are available at Macy's and totes.com.

Puddles beware

Rain boots can be fun and funky, too. These waterproof boots byKamik are made of recyclable material and are available at DSW,Nordstrom and at zappos.com. They retail for $60.

For rainy days

Kids get a kick out of getting decked out for a rainy day. Rain &Shine Boots from Lands' End come in a variety of prints andpatterns. They have rectangular side grips sized for little handsand are anti-microbial to help get rid of stinky odors ($25).Available at Lands' End, (800) 800-5800 or at www.landsend.com.

Waterproof print rain slicker ($38) and matching rain hat($14.50) features chin straps to keep everything secure in windyweather. Available at Lands' End, (800) 800-5800 or atwww.landsend.com.

A sure sign of spring

Leather flip-flops come in blue, pink, green and orange and sellfor $24.50 at Te Gap.

For rain or shine

These clear sunglasses will work on both gloomy ad sunny days. ByFossil, they"re $26-$48 at Elder-Beerman.

Ride in style

What could be better than a sunny spring or summer day on yourtricycle? This Grow-With-Me Trike from Fisher-Price is designed forkids ages 2-6 and features easy-grip handlebars, slip-resistantpedals and durable tires. In the upmost position, the trike can beused as a traditional trike. In the lower positions, the trike canbe used as an older "Low Rider" with the oversized front wheel,which enables the child to pedal at a higher rate of speed.Available soon at toy stores. ($24.99)

Keeping Fido dry

The Ohio State hooded nylon rain slicker has reflective trim soyou can see your dog in the dark. Velcro adjustable straps connectunder the belly and chest. It's $17.95-$19.95 at Moochie & Co. atThe Greene. The store also sells pet sunscreen and sunglasses.

Neoprene boots protect your pets' paws in the rain. A zipper andVelcro straps keep the boot from falling off the paw. Priced at$13.97-$20.97 from Moochie & Co. at The Greene.

Carry-all

A sunny day means toting all your goodies to the pool or thetennis courts. This twill floral tote is $39.50 at The Gap.

Time for a sundress

This multicolor halter patchwork patio dress is designed with themom-to-be in mind. It's $44.98 at Motherhood Maternity at the DaytonMall and the Mall at Fairfield Commons.

Get into the trenches

You'll be seeing lots of oversized floral prints this season. Thelined Gardenia Trench Coat is double-breasted and features longsleeves with buckle detail at the cuffs and an adjustable tie belt.It's $79.95 at Avenue.

Anchors away

Nothing says springtime like nautical themes. This cotton jerseystriped anchor shirt in chili and white, by Nautica, is $44 atMacy's.

Protecting our skin

It's important to protect our skin yearround, but especiallycrucial as we start spending more time in the sun. We askedCosmetics Cop Paula Begoin to choose a few of her favorite drugstore products that do a good job of taking care of our skin. Tolearn more, you can sign up for Paula's free beauty newsletter atwww.cosmeticscop.com.

Drugstore daytime moisturizer sunscreens

Almay Daily Moisturizer for Normal/ Combo Skin with Grape SeedSPF 15 ($11.99 for 4 ounces), Dove Energy Glow BrighteningMoisturizer SPF 15 ($10.99 for 1.7 ounce), Olay Regenerist UVDefense Regenerating Lotion SPF 15 ($18.99 for 2.5 ounces).

Drugstore sunscreens (face and body)

Almay Sun Protector for Body SPF 30 ($8.99 for 4.2 ounces), JasonNatural Sunbrellas Complete Sunblock SPF 26 ($11 for 4 ounces),Neutrogena Age Shield Sunblock SPF 30 ($9.99 for 4 ounces),Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunblock SPF 45 ($9.99 for 3ounces).

Drugstore lip balms with sunscreen

Blistex Clear Advance SPF 30 ($1.89 for 0.15 ounce), Blistex ProCare SPF 30 ($2.49 for 0.16 ounce), Kiss My Face Vanilla HoneyOrganic Lip Balm SPF 15 ($3.50 for 0.15 ounce).

Drugstore foundations with sunscreen

L'Oreal True Match Super Blendable Makeup SPF 17 ($9.99), RevlonColorStay Active Light Makeup SPF 25 ($12.99), Cover Girl AquaSmoothMakeup SPF 15 ($8.50)

Contact this reporter at (937) 225-2440 ormmoss@DaytonDailyNews.com.

Merkel: Britain remains important EU partner

BERLIN (AP) — German Chancellor Angela Merkel says Britain will remain an important member of the European Union despite refusing to join a new treaty aimed at solving the problems that led to the eurozone debt crisis.

Last week, British Prime Minister David Cameron blocked Merkel's push to bring all 27 EU members together for treaty changes. That left London isolated.

But Merkel told German lawmakers Wednesday that, while she regrets the decision, "it is beyond doubt for me that Great Britain will in future continue to be an important partner in the European Union."

She added: "Great Britain is a reliable partner for Europe not just in questions of foreign and security policy; Great Britain is also this partner in many other questions — in competitiveness, in the internal market, for trade, for climate protection."

Fidel Castro in prominent TV interview

Fidel Castro is speaking slowly, but appears relaxed and cogent in his most prominent television interview in years.

The 83-year-old former president talked about the conflict between North and South Korea at the start of an interview Monday on the "Mesa Redonda" _ or "Round Table" _ a daily Cuban talk show on current events.

It was a rare appearance for a man who has stayed largely out of the public eye since a serious illness four years ago forced him from power. The first photographs of the revolutionary leader in a public forum were published on Saturday, when images of him greeting workers at a Havana think tank appeared in Cuban …

Fidel Castro in prominent TV interview

Fidel Castro is speaking slowly, but appears relaxed and cogent in his most prominent television interview in years.

The 83-year-old former president talked about the conflict between North and South Korea at the start of an interview Monday on the "Mesa Redonda" _ or "Round Table" _ a daily Cuban talk show on current events.

It was a rare appearance for a man who has stayed largely out of the public eye since a serious illness four years ago forced him from power. The first photographs of the revolutionary leader in a public forum were published on Saturday, when images of him greeting workers at a Havana think tank appeared in Cuban …

Fidel Castro in prominent TV interview

Fidel Castro is speaking slowly, but appears relaxed and cogent in his most prominent television interview in years.

The 83-year-old former president talked about the conflict between North and South Korea at the start of an interview Monday on the "Mesa Redonda" _ or "Round Table" _ a daily Cuban talk show on current events.

It was a rare appearance for a man who has stayed largely out of the public eye since a serious illness four years ago forced him from power. The first photographs of the revolutionary leader in a public forum were published on Saturday, when images of him greeting workers at a Havana think tank appeared in Cuban …

Hambletonian's top 2 on tap at Sportsman's

Sportsman's Park will be invaded Saturday night by the 1-2finishers in the Aug. 3 Hambletonian.

Continentalvictory, still seeking the triple crown of trottingafter her wins in the Yonkers Trot and Hambletonian, will attempt tocomplete the triple in the Kentucky Futurity on Oct. 4. She is the1-5 morning-line choice over six rivals in the $147,640 AmericanNational Stake for 3-year-old filly trotters. Hambletonian runner-upLindy Lane looms as the 7-5 favorite in the $211,440 AmericanNational Stake for 3-year-old trotters.

Continentalvictory equaled Mack Lobell's record for 3-year-oldswhen she trotted the mile in 1:52 1/5 in her Hambletonian eliminationrace at the …

Simple method of colour images correction.(Report)

1. INTRODUCTION

Digital image can be acquired or processed by different devices like camera, scanner, computer monitor or printer. To ensure most devoted colour reproduction this device must satisfy specific conditions--reproduced appearance must be the same as the authentic one or very similar independently on processing or devices used in reproduction sequence. In practice there is a problem to satisfy this condition while not all devices in reproduction sequence describe and manipulate with colour in the same way and not all of them are able to display the same colour spectrum (gamut) (McCann, 1999). Scanner, camera and computer monitor define colour in RGB space. It means the colour is represented by 3 coordinates describing the ratio of the red, green and blue base colour component. Final colour appearance is affected by the technical properties of actual device. These devices use device-dependent colour space.

Coordinates of device-dependent colour space determine how to make a colour but they don't say anything about how the final colour will look like. Here belongs RGB or CMYK colour space.

Coordinates of device-independent colour space determine how final colour will look like, but they don't say anything about how to make a colour. Here belongs XYZ or L*a*b* colour space.

Nowadays the sequence of colours reproduction is characterized by open architecture, i.e. devices from various manufacturers are …

MELONS DESERVE THEIR JUST DESSERTS.(LIFE & LEISURE)

Byline: LAUREN CHAPIN Kansas City Star

Melons, affectionately known as Cucumis melo by botanists, are a rather complex fruit (or vegetable, depending on which source is consulted).

They have a ragtag history and a propensity to hybridize willy-nilly. The French, in fact, go to great lengths to keep apart melons and their cousins, cucumbers, to prevent ``incestuous intercourse,'' according to The Oxford Companion to Food.

We'll narrow this discussion to three categories of dessert melons: cantaloupe, netted (or musk and nutmeg) and winter melons.

The cantaloupe category includes the most fragrant specimens and is named for Cantalupo, Italy, …