Dear AVC Family:
On Saturday, April 17, my step-brother, Christopher Gaither was murdered in South Central Los Angeles. His ex-wife had taken an insurance policy out on him for $10,000.00 and just recently increased the policy by $190,000.00 for a total of $200,000.00 to be paid upon his death. We have tried to make burial arrangements at several different mortuaries and have been unsuccessful due to the sudden change in the policy. They are investigating this change for a number of reasons 1) it was a homicide, 2) the policy was just recently changed before his murder. Therefore, the mortuaries are not willing to honor the policy.
I am reaching out to my AVC family for assistance. We would like for the funeral services to take place on Wednesday, April 28 because he has been in the morgue for over eight days, not to mention, the family would like closure. Any donation you can make would bring us one step closer to having such closure.
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate contacting me at 661.236.7765. Flowers, cards, etc. can be sent to The Gaither Family 126 West 62nd Street, Los Angeles CA 90003 or you may bring them to the VAPA division office (include AVC Family on your card or memo area of your check so that we can know to whom we can thank for your generosity. Please make all checks payable to Reginald Gaither.
Your assistance is greatly appreciated.
Respectfully,
Shrawnda Harris, Administrative Assitant
Visual and Performing Arts Division
661.722.6385 (Office)
661.722.6390 (Fax)
LHARRIS3@AVC.EDU
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
SPORTS: NFL mock draft
Possibly the biggest day of the NFL offseason will take place on April 22nd at 7p.m. Eastern Time. The 2010 NFL Draft will be just as big this year if not bigger because of the highly celebrated names in this year’s draft.
Many “mock” drafts have been put out there already but with this being such a big event in sports I will take a shot at it.
I will project the pick and give other possibilities to who the team could actually end up picking. When a player is used I won’t use him later on in other possibilities because I will consider him already taken.
For the sake of argument I will not factor in possible trades of draft picks that could happen on draft day.
So let’s give this a try why don’t we.
1. St. Louis Rams-Sam Bradford, QB, Oklahoma- Personally I hate this pick but it will be the pick unless Bradford holds out. Should not be made if the Rams want to succeed but a quarterback has been taken first overall seven of the last 10 drafts. Sam Bradford is a big name and has big potential but this would be the wrong pick. He is a system quarterback from the University of Oklahoma and now could be injury prone with that creaky shoulder that needed season ending surgery. Not great at his reads and lots of question marks here. Predicting a big bust here.
Then again, the Rams are in desperate need of a quarterback and a franchise corner stone. Bradford does have the potential and a big name. Bradford appears smaller on tape but actually has the prototypical frame for a QB, standing at 6-4 and weighing 235. The Rams will take ESPN’s Todd McShay’s top rated QB.
Other Possibility:
Ndamukong Suh, DT, Nebraska- Utterly dominate. You build a team in the trenches and he is possibly the best defensive tackle prospect in the past 25 years. Just watch the tape against Texas in the Big 12 Championship game.
2. Detroit Lions-Russell Okung, OT, Oklahoma State- Should be a no brainer even with Suh on the board. Jeff Backus would be good at guard but is atrocious at left tackle. The Lions have been praising Backus this offseason but I believe it is ridiculous. They need to protect their $72 million investment from last year’s draft in Matthew Stafford, who has his own shoulder injury now caused from his “Swiss cheese” line. Okung is the most complete LT in the draft and a franchise LT in the making and would make Stafford extremely happy.
Other Possibility:
Ndamukong Suh, DT, Nebraska- Jim Schwartz is a defensive head coach. He was Tennessee’s defensive coordinator for some time and had a dominate DT while he was there in Albert Haynesworth. Schwartz has praised Suh at workouts.
Or
Gerald McCoy, DT, Oklahoma- Some have him rated higher than Suh. McCoy has been compared to a young Warren Sapp. Quick off the ball but not as great against the run as Suh but may be better at rushing the passer.
3. Tampa Bay Buccaneers- Ndamukong Suh, DT, Nebraska- Here is where fans and management rejoice. The top rated prospect by many respected draft guru’s such as Mel Kiper Jr. of ESPN. The Tampa defense has strayed from the Tampa 2 that Monty Kiffin coordinated so well before he left to coach with his son in college. Suh would bolster the sagging defense line that has been in Tampa for the past few years.
Tampa’s defense still seems too old even with the integration of young studs Barrett Ruud, Aqib Talib and Tanard Jackson. Suh has been compared to Reggie White by some. With that comparison it would not be a stretch to say that Suh could anchor the Bucs line for the next 10 to 15 years.
Other Possibility:
Gerald McCoy, DT, Oklahoma- As said before, a young Warren Sapp, the former Buccaneer great.
Or
Jason Pierre-Paul, DE/OLB, South Florida- The Bucs traded away former top pick Gaines Adams (since deceased) for next to nothing. Their pass rush was pathetic but “JPP” would help out here.
4. Washington Redskins- Trent Williams, OT, Oklahoma- This pick is questionable and could be considered a reach by a few. The Redskins need line help and Trent Williams has been gaining steam after a good combine and pro-day. Williams had a poor senior year but was great the two seasons before. Watch out though, he could end up being a right tackle instead of that franchise tackle you want when you pick this high. If the ‘Skins hadn’t traded for Donovan McNabb I probably would have said Jimmy Clausen but now what would be the point?
His poor year could have been a fluke because it seemed like every Sooner star went down last year with some type of injury. Williams will just be one piece of the puzzle for the Redskins line that is probably the worst line in the NFL. He could anchor left tackle but the Skins will need to draft more line help if they expect to reach the playoffs with McNabb at the helm.
Other Possibilities:
Eric Berry, S, Tennessee- The first or second best prospect in the draft but safeties are not taken this high. Could be the pick if the Redskins want to take the best player available but otherwise a tackle will be the pick.
Or
Jimmy Clausen, QB, Notre Dame- What would be the point? Well grabbing a great young QB who played in a pro style system under Charlie Weiss would not be a bad pick. McNabb could teach the young Clausen the ropes like he did Kevin Kolb in Philly. Plus Mike Shanahan probably wants his prize QB, (see John Elway and Jay Cutler).
5. Kansas City Chiefs- Brian Bulaga, OT, Iowa- Originally I had Anthony Davis here because I believe he is the superior talent but most mocks and talent evaluators have Bulaga here. A technician at his craft but not particularly strong in the passing game. Bulaga has a low ceiling that you really do not want when drafting a possible franchise left tackle. His shorter arms also are worrisome for his position where he may not be able to reach the quick DEs and LBs in the NFL. Should be considered a reach and probably will end up being moved to right tackle.
Branden Albert played well at the end of the year but may not be a franchise left tackle. This move could help the Chiefs in more moves than just one. By drafting Bulaga, Albert could move to left guard or right tackle while Brian Waters could move to center if need be. Protecting QB Matt Cassel is important to this young team’s success.
Other Possibilities:
Anthony Davis, OT, Rutgers- The far superior athlete but has some concerning character issues which have dropped his stock. He was once projected to go in the top five due to his obvious talent. He needs to keep his weight under control or else he could slide father down the boards.
Or
Eric Berry, S, Tennessee- The first or second best prospect in the draft but safeties are not taken this high. Could be the pick if the Chiefs want to take the best player available but otherwise a tackle will be the pick.
6. Seattle Seahawks-Gerald McCoy, DT, Oklahoma- Probably not even a month ago people were saying McCoy and Suh would go one and two overall. There was no possible way that either would even reach the Redskins at four. McCoy will immediately step in and produce. McCoy is a dominate force that would now have to anchor the defensive line with the help of Lawrence Jackson in the wake of Patrick Kerney’s retirement.
The Warren Sapp comparison is a great fit. McCoy is off the ball like is in a sprinters stance. The better pass rusher between him and Suh but could use some work in the run stopping department. Seahawks will get a great player here.
Other Possibilities:
Eric Berry, S, Tennessee- Berry would be a great fit since Deon Grant was released. In the mold of Ed Reed, which if I was him I would be flattered to be compared to one of the greatest safeties of all time.
Or
Jimmy Clausen, QB, Notre Dame- Matt Hasselbeck is 34 years old and extremely injury prone since the ‘Hawks went to the Super Bowl. Clausen is for some reason being overlooked, cannot explain why but he will have better career than Bradford.
Or
Bruce Campbell, OT, Maryland- Yes many also have Bulaga here but I just don’t see it. If you look at the type of players that Carroll recruited at USC it was always the high potential guys. He rarely took the technician and low ceiling player. Campbell is a physical specimen and LOADS of potential. He is big, strong and with some coaching I believe he could dominate.
7. Cleveland Browns- Eric Berry, S, Tennessee- Berry is a great athlete and very well could be the next Ed Reed. With Brodney Pool leaving for the Jets it looks like a good place for Berry to go and make highlight reel plays for years to come. Mike Holmgren should be more than happy to get Berry playing centerfield like how he once had Darren Sharper in Green Bay. So the dog pound should be very happy with this pick.
Other Possibilities:
Jimmy Clausen, QB, Notre Dame- Holmgren says he will not take a quarterback this early but this time of the year every GM is lying about what is their plan. Holmgren is an elite QB developer and Clausen fits a need. A year or even a couple weeks behind Jake Delhomme would certainly help out the youngest QB of the top QB prospects.
Or
Derrick Morgan, DE, Georgia Tech- Reported that the Browns like Morgan better than Jason Pierre-Paul. Morgan would have to transition from the 4-3 to the 3-4 but many believe in the league that he could make the move smoothly.
Or
Dez Bryant, WR, Oklahoma State- By trading away Braylon Edwards and Kellen Winslow last year, the Browns have very few playmakers. Bryant is the best wideout in the draft and would help whoever will be the QB.
8. Oakland Raiders- Bruce Campbell, OT, Maryland- The fun begins with the Raiders. Let’s get this straight, there are only three options for the Raiders at this point in this mock draft. Only three, period. This is the one that makes the most sense. The Raiders need a tackle and Al Davis gets his “great” player here. Davis loves big, fast and strong specimens, and Campbell is all three for his great size and valuable position.
Other Possibilities:
Taylor Mays, S, USC- Possibly the greatest physical specimen in this year’s draft. The 6-3 230 pound safety ran an unofficial 4.24 40 yard dash at the combine and roughly that at his pro day. His body and measurables are off the charts. Has questions about his lateral quickness and his ability to cover the deep pass. Then again, he was injured most of this past season with a knee ailment that could have prevented his lateral movements.
Or
Jason Pierre-Paul, DE/OLB, South Florida- Is also a freak of nature. The dude is 6-6 and weighs 270. He ran a 4.64 40 at the combine and can do those gymnastic backflips over and over and over again. The video of it is on YouTube were he does 13 back flips in a row. I wonder how many times Al Davis has watched the video if he even knows what the internet is.
9. Buffalo Bills- Dan Williams, NT, Tennessee- The Bills are transitioning to the ever popular 3-4 defensive scheme. Even with trading for Marcus Stroud last offseason, a big nose tackle is a must for the scheme. Williams wasn’t even in the draft talk following three disappointing years at Tennessee but after a dominate senior season his stock has risen dramatically. The consensus third best defensive tackle prospect and the highest rated nose tackle prospect.
Other Possibilities:
Jimmy Clausen, QB, Notre Dame- They need a lot but Clausen could be special. Other needs will force Clausen to slide some more.
10. Jacksonville Jaguars- Dez Bryant, WR, Oklahoma State- Bryant is a potential star at a position where the Jags have drafted before but never struck gold. Bryant is better than a Reggie Williams or Matt Jones. David Garrard will thank management for finally giving him the number one receiver that the team has been attempting to get for years.
Like the past receiver selections of the Jags, Bryant has some of his own issues. Many teams reportedly have actually taken the stud from Oklahoma State off their boards entirely. That is utterly ridiculous. Bryant is a young immature kid who lied to NCAA officials about his time with former NFL diva Deion Sanders. Bryant has since hired a life skills coach and should have no further problems.
Other Possibilities:
Joe Haden, CB, Florida- Line him up across from Rashean Mathis and they could have the best cornerback tandem in the league with Haden eventually becoming the number one CB on the team.
Or
Jimmy Clausen, QB, Notre Dame- Sorry but David Garrard is getting old and really should not have been a Probowler last year.
11. Denver Broncos- Rolando McClain, ILB, Alabama- Pair him up with DJ Williams and they would be the best inside backer duo this year. Especially with Andra Davis being released, he is a major consideration to the Broncos. With a McClain and Williams tandem up the middle, teams will be more reluctant to run their way.
Right now in the rebuilding stage of the Broncos, defense is the most important as side of the ball. The Broncos defense was impenetrable the first six weeks of the season, but after they went through the easiest part of their schedule they started to wear down. McClain adds a tough mentality and will be a major focal point for the retooling of the proud franchise.
Other Possibilities:
Maurkice Pouncey, C/G, Florida- Flying up the draft boards. Center is a huge need for the Broncos and Pouncey is one of the best center prospects in 10 or so years.
12. Miami Dolphins- Jason Pierre-Paul, DE/OLB, South Florida- This specimen could replace the aging and reportedly departing free agent Jason Taylor and already departed Joey Porter (he too was a nuisance to his team as well as an aging veteran). This pick is of obvious need with the departing two edge rushers and value. JPP could be Bill Parcells’ next big time pass rusher (see Lawrence Taylor, Demarcus Ware, etc.).
Pierre-Paul is completely raw for Parcells to mold (Yes I know Parcells is not even a coach but whoever believes that he doesn’t help head coach Tony Sparano is kidding themselves). He is big, fast, agile and powerful. A complete specimen that is perfectly moldable. JJP has only been playing football since his junior year in high school; from there he attended two years at community colleges and then a single year at USF so he is extremely raw. Perfect for Parcells, Sparano and co. who will develop him like no other.
Other Possibilities:
Derrick Morgan, DE, Georgia Tech- Out jumped JPP in the vertical jump approximately 34” to 31 ½.” He may not be as athletic but isn’t a stiff. Could make the move to the 3-4 rushing OLB and I could just come down to who Parcells and Jeff Ireland prefer.
Or
Joe Haden, CB, Florida- With the two cornerbacks being drafted last year this is not a huge need but a safety sure would help. Drafting Haden would move Sean Smith to safety and shore up that secondary.
Or
Earl Thomas, S/CB, Texas- Yes he played safety at Texas but scouts say he could play corner or safety in the league. Either way he could fill that hole in the secondary for the ‘Fins.
13. San Francisco 49ers- Joe Haden, CB, Florida- The 49ers luck out again this year. Last year no one predicted that the highly coveted Michael Crabtree would somehow fall all the way to the 10th overall pick. Crabtree was not even the first WR taken last year; that title goes to the incredibly fast Darius Heyward-Bey who had no business going seventh overall to the Raiders (told you Al Davis loves his fast guys). This year San Francisco gets an ultra-talented prospect that should not be this low, again.
Haden had a poor 40 yard dash time at the combine but amazed at his pro day. Nate Clements, the $80 million man, has certainly disappointed in his time on the team but Haden would easily take over so Clements could move over to be the second. Haden could be a top 10 or 15 corner in the league right now he is so good. Terrific ball skills, instincts, he actually tackles for a DB, is big and strong for a corner, and certainly fast.
Other Possibilities:
Earl Thomas, S/CB, Texas- Would essentially do the same thing as Haden, but Haden won’t be there for the 49ers second first round pick and Thomas very well could be.
Or
CJ Spiller, RB, Clemson- Gore is entrenched as the starter but the kid from Clemson can do it all. He can run, catch, and return. Spiller could be a major consideration here especially because he could be gone in the next pick or two.
14. Seattle Seahawks- CJ Spiller, RB, Clemson- Julius Jones has been a joke since his rookie year and Justin Forsett doesn’t seem like a franchise back at his small size. CJ Spiller is a homerun waiting to happen anytime he touches the ball. Spiller is easily a top 10 talent but people don’t seem to respect him as a running back. Could be a Chris Johnson in waiting.
Spiller was the only college player to score in every game last year, and doing so in five different ways (punt return, kickoff return, reception, rush and throw a touchdown pass). Spiller will fit in perfectly with Pete Carroll’s offensive scheme. Watch for the Clemson senior standout to touch the ball in Seattle, A LOT.
Other Possibilities:
Jimmy Clausen, QB, Notre Dame- I really like him here as the eventual successor to Matt Hasselbeck. Though it may sound ridiculous, I think Carroll could wait until Matt Barkley comes out from USC. Sounds crazy but who is really going to tell Carroll what to do after they pried the decorated coach from USC after he won several national championships? Oh wait. That’s right, absolutely no one.
Or
Charles Brown, OT, USC- Very solid left tackle could be the pick if Walter Jones finally announces his long awaited retirement after not playing for nearly two years. Carroll is familiar with him since he was his college coach. Left tackle is also a big need with one of the worst lines in the league.
15. New York Giants- Derrick Morgan, DE, Georgia Tech- There is a reported good/great chance that the Giants will trade veteran Osi Umenyiora after he was benched coming back from injury. He is starting to cause troubles in the locker room which is creating a headache for the front office.
Morgan is generally rated the highest DE prospect after declaring after his junior year at Georgia Tech. Morgan possesses great size, strength, skill, smarts and anything else you could want. He has displayed an excellent work ethic, high motor and is possibly the most complete DE in the draft. He will end up moving the talented Mathias Kiwanuka back to linebacker or even forcing a trade of the young vet.
Other Possibilities:
Everson Griffin, DE, USC- Looked like he could have played in the NFL even as a senior in High School. Starting to slip in some boards but a legit 4-3 DE prospect with nice speed, power and moves. A little bit of an underachiever at USC but with motivation he could be a monster.
Or
Earl Thomas, S, Texas- No one except the Giants know how severe Kenny Phillips’ injury really is. If they feel that Phillips is done for, was rumored that his knee injury could be career-threatening, Thomas is a viable option.
16. Tennessee Titans, Carlos Dunlap, DE/OLB, South Florida- The Titans love there their workout warriors. Last year was Kenny Britt (2009), Chris Johnson (2008), and way back in 2007, Michael Griffin was even considered to be a workout warrior. This year the Titans will take the Jevon Kearse clone. He is big, fast, agile and powerful. A complete specimen with some character concerns. Dunlap is 6-6 290 and will easily replace the overachieving high-motor of Kyle Vanden Bosch.
Before the SEC title game, Dunlap was found passed out at a street light. He was intoxicated, charged with a DUI and suspended for the SEC title game. He was allowed to play in the Sugar Bowl but the damage had been done. He is coming out after his junior season which is risky due to his now evident character issues and suspected poor work ethic. Regardless, Dunlap should have a chip on his shoulder and be a dominate force in the league early in his professional career.
Other Possibilities:
Devin McCourty, CB, Rutgers- Would say Kyle Wilson because he is seemingly the second best corner in the draft but McCourty ran a 4.34 40.
Or
Everson Griffin, DE, USC- Considered to be a workout warrior in his own right but nothing along the like to JPP.
17. San Francisco 49ers- Anthony Davis, OT, Rutgers- I believe Davis is too talented to go this low. Davis was once projected as a top five pick but has dropped due to weight, work ethic, and some character issues. I believe Davis is suffering from what Andre Smith suffered from last year. Smith was projected as the top overall pick but had work ethic questions, his weight fluctuated, had an injury, and some small character questions. Smith did have a disappointing rookie season after he held out over the amount of money in his contract and promptly a week later broke his ankle.
Here again the Niners strike gold for the second time this drat and third time in the past two years. All the questions about Davis will allow San Francisco to steal a superior talent and continue to help former number one overall pick from 2005, Alex Smith. Davis will allow the 49ers to shift Joe Staley over to his more natural position of right tackle. The Rutgers product is the best pass protector in the draft and that seems like it will be more of a focus in the future. Davis could suffer the same fate but along with Smith will be a future franchise left tackle, pro bowler, and quite possibly an All-Pro.
Other Possibilities:
Jimmy Clausen, QB, Notre Dame- With a new incoming GM and Mike Singletary never getting his choice of a franchise QB, Clausen could just as easily be the pick. Clausen is the most prepared QB in the draft and if put in the spread offense like the Niners have been talking about, Clausen would torch teams around the league.
Or
Taylor Mays, S, USC- If the Niners were to take Mays, start the Ronnie Lott comparisons. He is a big physical safety that will draw the comparison.
18. Pittsburgh Steelers- Mike Iupati, OL, Idaho- Yea the Steelers have issues all over the place right now especially at QB. 2 time winning Super Bowl Champ, Ben Roethlisberger, is possibly in line for a suspension due to conduct detrimental to the league. But even with this, Ben needs to be protected. Roethlisberger was sacked the most of any quarterback last season, though some of his own doing from his style of play. Iupati will help the Steelers return to their identity of a smash mouth, power running game that the Steelers have been famous for.
Iupati is extremely talented. He could end up playing any line position except center. The Idaho product is a massive young man (6-5, 331). Even if Iupati doesn’t become that franchise left tackle he could become an all-pro at either guard position or right tackle. He needs to work on his pass protection but will maul in the run game. Loads of potential for this young man. Quite possibly the third best offensive line prospect behind Okung and Davis in my opinion.
Other Possibilities:
Kyle Wilson, CB, Boise State- His stock is picking up steam and with good reason. The guy can play. Could fit in nicely at corner across from Ike Taylor.
Or
Maurkice Pouncey, OL, Florida- Great upside. Right guard needs addressing and he could handle it then go to center eventually.
19. Atlanta Falcons- Kyle Wilson, CB/ KR, Boise State- The Dunta Robinson signing was nice but he has had two major knee operations and has noticeably slowed, he was once a burner and now could be even moved to safety due to his dwindling speed. He could always heal fully and regain some speed but a corner opposite of him would be nice. Jimmy Williams is expected to return fully from knee surgery himself but may actually be best suited for a safety position now.
Wilson will lock up the number two corner for now and could even play the nickel is Williams returns healthy. Wilson could end up being Atlanta’s shutdown corner as soon as the end of the season. A pass rusher opposite of John Abraham would be nice but their secondary was torn up last year.
Other Possibilities:
Brandon Graham, DE, Michigan- A very popular pick for the Falcons but I do not see this amazing potential that everyone has been talking about. He is decently fast for an end but he is small in size, 6-1, and did not dominate all throughout college like other smaller ends/ rushing lbs like Elvis Dumervill or Dwight Freeney.
Or
Devin McCourty, CB, Rutgers- Not as skilled as Wilson but Thomas Dimitroff (Falcons GM) may like McCourty more.
20. Houston Texans- Earl Thomas, S/CB, Texas- The Texans have figured out that they need to stop the Colts passing attack, the loss of Robinson won’t help but Thomas is a major upgrade at safety or could even play corner. Will form a three headed monster on the Texans defense with Mario Williams and DeMeco Ryans at every level of the defense.
Other Possibilities:
Ryan Matthews, RB, Fresno State- His strong showing at the combine proved to scouts that he is the real deal. Would instantly be an upgrade over any of Houston’s many backs.
Or
Brian Price, DT, UCLA- Would make the defensive line insane. A defensive line of Mario Williams, Amobi Okoye, Brian Price and Antonio Smith would be a great way of helping out the depleted secondary.
21. Cincinnati Bengals- Taylor Mays, S, USC- The Bengals sure do like their former Trojans: Keith Rivers, Rey Maualuga, Frostee Rucker, Carson Palmer and crew. Mays is a big, fast, and strong safety that just lost out on millions by not entering the draft last year. A knee injury slowed him down his senior season but Marvin Lewis (former Ravens defensive coordinator) will use him like no other. Would be an instant upgrade over the similar but inferior Roy Williams.
Other Possibilities:
Brian Price, DT, UCLA: Tank Johnson is always a suspension waiting to happen. Price would be a good fit next to Domata Peko.
Or
Jermaine Gresham, TE, Oklahoma- Another former all-american who lost a lot of money because he wanted to return to try to win a national championship. Blowing his knee out could affect his once unbelievable play but the Bengals desperately need a tight end with Chase Coffman seemingly busting on us right before our eyes on Hard Knocks last year.
22. New England Patriots- Jermaine Gresham, TE, Oklahoma- Bill Belichick let Chris Baker and Ben Watson walk. This is where he gets the two departed rolled into one if his knee fully heals. Brady will love having Gresham run across the middle for him. Possible elite TE.
Other Possibilities:
Jared Odrick, DE/DT, Penn State- Belichick could replace Richard Seymour right here. Odrick would be just another great piece in Belichick’s phase of getting younger with third year Jerod Mayo and Brandon Merriweather. Would be a nice piece on the D line alongside Vince Wilfork and Ty Warren.
Or
Sergio Kindle, DE/OLB, Texas- Tully Banta-Cain had a nice year back with the Pats but Kindle would instantly upgrade New England’s pass rush since the trade of Mike Vrabel.
Or
Jerry Hughes, DE/OLB, TCU- See Kindle above.
23. Green Bay Packers- Devin McCourty, CB, Rutgers- Al Harris is coming off a season-ending ACL tear. Harris is aging, 34, and NFL Defensive MVP Charles Woodson, 32, isn’t getting any younger himself. Neither can be said to be deteriorating in skills, especially Woodson with his Defensive MVP trophy but youth and depth needs to be addressed. .McCourty could start out as the Packers nickel back but could end up starting over Harris if he needs more time to heal.
Other Possibilities:
Charles Brown, OT, USC- Easily could have been the pick. The re-signing of Mark Tauscher and Chad Clifton persuaded me to go with the corner even though either could end up being injured like always. Aaron Rodgers will demand a new left tackle this year or next year. Better make sure you protect possibly the best QB in the NFL.
Or
Nate Allen, S, South Florida- Atari Bigby is a nice safety but he seems to be pulling a Bob Sanders, as in he is hurt more than on the field.
24. Philadelphia Eagles- Maurkice Pouncey, C/G, Florida- This is the type of pick that Andy Reid LOVES to make. Four of the last five first round picks that Philadelphia has had (no picks in first round in 2007 or 2008) have been picks for the trenches. Pouncey is considered to be possibly the best center prospect in the last 10 years. Reid could deploy Pouncey in the guard or center position and watch him rake in the pro-bowls.
Other Possibilities:
Nate Allen, S, South Florida- Safety could easily be upgraded for the Eagles.
25. Baltimore Ravens- Jared Odrick, DE/DT, Penn State- Dwan Edwards and Justin Bannan both went on to greener pasture. With this pick the Ravens will add depth and have the replacement of the future for Trevor Pryce.
Other Possibilities:
Demaryius Thomas, WR, Georgia Tech- They acquired Anquan Boldin earlier in the offseason to give Joe Flacco someone to throw to but he is not enough. Any number of wide receivers could be taken here.
Or
Aaron Hernandez, TE, Florida- Todd Heap is getting old and always seems to be listed on the injury list with some nagging pain. Hernandez isn’t in Gresham’s class in overall play but he may in fact be a superior receiver now that Gresham’s explosiveness comes into question now.
26. Arizona Cardinals-Sean Weatherspoon, LB, Missouri- Karlos Dansby went to Miami and became the richest linebacker in league history. Well there goes the Cards best defensive leader and probably player. Weatherspoon has loads of potential and will be a great leader himself. The loss of Dansby hurts in the short term but the Mizzou senior could make Cards fans forget who that Dansby guy was in the future.
Other Possibilities:
Sergio Kindle, DE/OLB, Texas- The Cards need to replace Chike Okeafor, Bertrand Berry and Clark Haggan who are all 33 or older. Kindle is bigger, stronger, and faster and could be more dominate than former Texas teammate Orakpo. Amazing how Kindle could slip to here or further after Orakpo was taken 13th overall. Would supplant the three vets from above and pair with recently acquired Joey Porter and give the Cards a potentially great pass rush.
Or
Jerry Hughes, DE/OLB, TCU- Again see Kindle above.
Or
Terrence Cody, NT, Alabama- The Cards could definitely use an upgrade at their 3-4 nose tackle. Brian Robinson will be 36 and Gabe Watson has been a major disappointment. Mount Cody is a mammoth of a man and could just be what the doctor ordered. Cody was near 400 pounds at the end of the season but lost roughly 25 pounds by the time the combine rolled around. At the Alabama pro day, he had further slimmed down to roughly 354, further skyrocketing his draft stock.
27. Dallas Cowboys- Nate Allen, S, South Florida- With Ken Hamlin’s release this is an area of need. Allen is actually able to cover unlike some safety prospects and has been rated higher on some teams boards above Mays (Mr. I can’t cover but I can lay the hammer). Allen would rejoin former USF standout Mike Jenkins who has begun to take off as possibly the Cowboys best corner.
Other Possibilities:
Brandon Spikes, ILB, Florida- Has been slipping big time on almost everyone’s draft board due to his poor workouts. Looking at the tape though is a whole other story. Spikes could sit a year behind Keith Brooking like how the disappointing Bobby Carpenter has been behind Bradie James.
28. San Diego Chargers- Ryan Matthews, RB, Fresno State- The Chargers did well with their last small school running back prospect (future Hall of Famer LaDainian Tomlinson who has since signed with the Jets) and Matthews could be the next big thing. Matthews is underrated by many but his measureables are impressive and displayed great skills running the ball. He is the best pure runner in this class of RB. Running back is a big need with only third down back and return specialist Darren Sproles the only back on the roster. Matthews will start from day one.
Other Possibilities:
Terrence Cody, NT, Alabama- I believe this is San Diego’s target in the second round to replace the released Jamal Williams but if someone take Matthews before 28 then Cody could be the pick. San Diego has some of their own guys that could possibly plat NT but Cody is built for the position.
Or
Damian Williams, WR, USC- He too has been slipping down the board for some odd reason but Chargers GM AJ Smith likes his big, fast and tall receivers which Williams fits the bill to a tee.
29. New York Jets- Sergio Kindle, DE/OLB, Texas- Would have picked WR Golden Tate from Notre Dame but the Jets robbed the Steelers of Santonio Holmes in a trade. The Jets this offseason had to get weapons for rookie QB standout Mark Sanchez and they have done that through trades and free agency. Now the Jets can focus on getting a pass rusher. Kindle will be a dominating piece on the already loaded Jets defense.
Other Possibilities:
Linval Joseph, NT, East Carolina- Could possibly be the next Haloti Ngata. Rex Ryan could use Joseph in the same manner. A nose tackle type that helps the actual nose tackle eat up space for the linebackers to dominate.
Or
Golden Tate, WR, Notre Dame- Holmes will be suspended for the first four games of the season and only has one year remaining on his contract, Braylon Edwards has a case of the dropsy’s, and Jerricho Cothcery is just solid. Tate has sure hands, great speed, good after the catch abilities, and has been finely coached at ND. Sanchez could use all the weapons he could get.
30. Minnesota Vikings- Brian Price, DT, UCLA- If Pat Williams actually retires like how he has been “threatening in the kindest way,” Price would be an excellent pick up. Price isn’t as big as Williams but he is more explosive and the Vikes already have Kevin Williams to pair him up with at DT.
Other Possibilities:
Jimmy Clausen, QB, Notre Dame- This should be the pick regardless but the Vikes are in LOVE with Brett Favre and will not do anything to make the old vet mad. Clausen would benefit from sitting behind Favre for a year or even two if Favre continued to play his old games. Favre: “I’m retiring,” crying during a sad press conference; then “WAIT! I haven’t had enough, I just didn’t want to go to training camp.” No one seems to notice how good Favre is at helping young eventual replacements or trade bait; i.e. Matt Hasselbeck and Aaron Rodgers. Clausen would be a great fit with the Vikes.
Or
Kareem Jackson, CB, Alabama- Possibly a reach but Cedric Griffin blew out his knee and could take a while to get healthy if he even can fully recover. On top of it all, Antoine Winfield is definitely not getting any younger. With a deep solid draft class though, the secondary could be addressed later.
31. Indianapolis Colts- Charles Brown, OT, USC- The Colts could use a new franchise left tackle. Charlie Johnson did an ok job and Tony Ugoh was good for a season or so but not a franchise LT. Protecting Peyton Manning is the most important thing for the Colts and Brown is a great pick here. A potential franchise left tackle.
Other Possibilities:
Jahvid Best, RB, Cal- Speed, speed, and more speed. Best has amazing, well, speed and could be a nice compliment to last year’s pick in Donald Brown. Joseph Addai is a free agent after the season and Best would be a more than adequate replacement.
Or
Everson Griffin, DE, USC- Not the typical Colts DE but would still be a good fit.
32. New Orleans Saints- Everson Griffin DE, USC- Was a man among boys in high school and looked like he could play in the league even then. He was a monster then and now but was kind of a disappointment in college. He never quite lived up to the hype but is still a superior talent. The Alex Brown signing does not discourage this pick. Griffin was better in high school than Brown was even when he was in the league at the time.
Other Possibilities:
Jerry Hughes, DE/OLB, TCU- Saints defensive coordinator Gregg Williams could have A LOT of fun with this young player.
NOTES:
-Jimmy Clausen will go in the first round plain and simple. He is way too talented and has too much potential. Someone will trade up to get him. Probably in the 20’s range but could go even to the Bills at nine. Clausen is my top rated QB in the draft but for some god awful reason, Bradford is actually rated higher by most. He will have a better career than Bradford and most likely go to a better team than Bradford.
-Don’t be surprised if Maurkice Pouncey goes as high as 11 to the Broncos after the trade of Brandon Marshall. McDaniels comes from New England were they love their O line prospects and center is a huge need for Denver. With all the wide receiver depth, the Broncos could even trade down and take a receiver later in say the second round. I could easily see Damian Williams from USC (2nd round) and a guy like Mike Williams from Syracuse (3rd or 4th round) go to Denver.
-Another side note on Pouncey. He is possibly the highest last minute riser this year. He was a projected late second round pick at first but now could go as soon as 11 as stated before.
-DO NOT, I repeat, DO NOT count out someone trying to trade up to select either Colt McCoy OR Tim Tebow in the first round. Lots of speculation that any number of teams would like to trade up to get either QB.
-Rolando McClain could go as high as five to the Chiefs. More likely is Denver at 11, Miami at 12, even San Francisco taking him at 13 if Haden or Spiller are gone.
-If you didn’t notice I said Spiller could go before 13 to SF. Spiller is underappreciated but certainly a top 10 talent. Watch out for someone trading up to get him or simply picking him in the eight to 10 range.
-Brian Bulaga is a tricky pick. He is overrated by many. He could go as high as five to the Chiefs or as low as 23 to the Packers.
-Workout warrior Bruce Campbell will probably go higher than he should. His athleticism and measureable will force someone to reach on the big guy with loads of potential. A huge risk/reward type player. I have Campbell going eight to Oakland but he could possibly fall to the second round if they feel his tape is just to troubling.
Many “mock” drafts have been put out there already but with this being such a big event in sports I will take a shot at it.
I will project the pick and give other possibilities to who the team could actually end up picking. When a player is used I won’t use him later on in other possibilities because I will consider him already taken.
For the sake of argument I will not factor in possible trades of draft picks that could happen on draft day.
So let’s give this a try why don’t we.
1. St. Louis Rams-Sam Bradford, QB, Oklahoma- Personally I hate this pick but it will be the pick unless Bradford holds out. Should not be made if the Rams want to succeed but a quarterback has been taken first overall seven of the last 10 drafts. Sam Bradford is a big name and has big potential but this would be the wrong pick. He is a system quarterback from the University of Oklahoma and now could be injury prone with that creaky shoulder that needed season ending surgery. Not great at his reads and lots of question marks here. Predicting a big bust here.
Then again, the Rams are in desperate need of a quarterback and a franchise corner stone. Bradford does have the potential and a big name. Bradford appears smaller on tape but actually has the prototypical frame for a QB, standing at 6-4 and weighing 235. The Rams will take ESPN’s Todd McShay’s top rated QB.
Other Possibility:
Ndamukong Suh, DT, Nebraska- Utterly dominate. You build a team in the trenches and he is possibly the best defensive tackle prospect in the past 25 years. Just watch the tape against Texas in the Big 12 Championship game.
2. Detroit Lions-Russell Okung, OT, Oklahoma State- Should be a no brainer even with Suh on the board. Jeff Backus would be good at guard but is atrocious at left tackle. The Lions have been praising Backus this offseason but I believe it is ridiculous. They need to protect their $72 million investment from last year’s draft in Matthew Stafford, who has his own shoulder injury now caused from his “Swiss cheese” line. Okung is the most complete LT in the draft and a franchise LT in the making and would make Stafford extremely happy.
Other Possibility:
Ndamukong Suh, DT, Nebraska- Jim Schwartz is a defensive head coach. He was Tennessee’s defensive coordinator for some time and had a dominate DT while he was there in Albert Haynesworth. Schwartz has praised Suh at workouts.
Or
Gerald McCoy, DT, Oklahoma- Some have him rated higher than Suh. McCoy has been compared to a young Warren Sapp. Quick off the ball but not as great against the run as Suh but may be better at rushing the passer.
3. Tampa Bay Buccaneers- Ndamukong Suh, DT, Nebraska- Here is where fans and management rejoice. The top rated prospect by many respected draft guru’s such as Mel Kiper Jr. of ESPN. The Tampa defense has strayed from the Tampa 2 that Monty Kiffin coordinated so well before he left to coach with his son in college. Suh would bolster the sagging defense line that has been in Tampa for the past few years.
Tampa’s defense still seems too old even with the integration of young studs Barrett Ruud, Aqib Talib and Tanard Jackson. Suh has been compared to Reggie White by some. With that comparison it would not be a stretch to say that Suh could anchor the Bucs line for the next 10 to 15 years.
Other Possibility:
Gerald McCoy, DT, Oklahoma- As said before, a young Warren Sapp, the former Buccaneer great.
Or
Jason Pierre-Paul, DE/OLB, South Florida- The Bucs traded away former top pick Gaines Adams (since deceased) for next to nothing. Their pass rush was pathetic but “JPP” would help out here.
4. Washington Redskins- Trent Williams, OT, Oklahoma- This pick is questionable and could be considered a reach by a few. The Redskins need line help and Trent Williams has been gaining steam after a good combine and pro-day. Williams had a poor senior year but was great the two seasons before. Watch out though, he could end up being a right tackle instead of that franchise tackle you want when you pick this high. If the ‘Skins hadn’t traded for Donovan McNabb I probably would have said Jimmy Clausen but now what would be the point?
His poor year could have been a fluke because it seemed like every Sooner star went down last year with some type of injury. Williams will just be one piece of the puzzle for the Redskins line that is probably the worst line in the NFL. He could anchor left tackle but the Skins will need to draft more line help if they expect to reach the playoffs with McNabb at the helm.
Other Possibilities:
Eric Berry, S, Tennessee- The first or second best prospect in the draft but safeties are not taken this high. Could be the pick if the Redskins want to take the best player available but otherwise a tackle will be the pick.
Or
Jimmy Clausen, QB, Notre Dame- What would be the point? Well grabbing a great young QB who played in a pro style system under Charlie Weiss would not be a bad pick. McNabb could teach the young Clausen the ropes like he did Kevin Kolb in Philly. Plus Mike Shanahan probably wants his prize QB, (see John Elway and Jay Cutler).
5. Kansas City Chiefs- Brian Bulaga, OT, Iowa- Originally I had Anthony Davis here because I believe he is the superior talent but most mocks and talent evaluators have Bulaga here. A technician at his craft but not particularly strong in the passing game. Bulaga has a low ceiling that you really do not want when drafting a possible franchise left tackle. His shorter arms also are worrisome for his position where he may not be able to reach the quick DEs and LBs in the NFL. Should be considered a reach and probably will end up being moved to right tackle.
Branden Albert played well at the end of the year but may not be a franchise left tackle. This move could help the Chiefs in more moves than just one. By drafting Bulaga, Albert could move to left guard or right tackle while Brian Waters could move to center if need be. Protecting QB Matt Cassel is important to this young team’s success.
Other Possibilities:
Anthony Davis, OT, Rutgers- The far superior athlete but has some concerning character issues which have dropped his stock. He was once projected to go in the top five due to his obvious talent. He needs to keep his weight under control or else he could slide father down the boards.
Or
Eric Berry, S, Tennessee- The first or second best prospect in the draft but safeties are not taken this high. Could be the pick if the Chiefs want to take the best player available but otherwise a tackle will be the pick.
6. Seattle Seahawks-Gerald McCoy, DT, Oklahoma- Probably not even a month ago people were saying McCoy and Suh would go one and two overall. There was no possible way that either would even reach the Redskins at four. McCoy will immediately step in and produce. McCoy is a dominate force that would now have to anchor the defensive line with the help of Lawrence Jackson in the wake of Patrick Kerney’s retirement.
The Warren Sapp comparison is a great fit. McCoy is off the ball like is in a sprinters stance. The better pass rusher between him and Suh but could use some work in the run stopping department. Seahawks will get a great player here.
Other Possibilities:
Eric Berry, S, Tennessee- Berry would be a great fit since Deon Grant was released. In the mold of Ed Reed, which if I was him I would be flattered to be compared to one of the greatest safeties of all time.
Or
Jimmy Clausen, QB, Notre Dame- Matt Hasselbeck is 34 years old and extremely injury prone since the ‘Hawks went to the Super Bowl. Clausen is for some reason being overlooked, cannot explain why but he will have better career than Bradford.
Or
Bruce Campbell, OT, Maryland- Yes many also have Bulaga here but I just don’t see it. If you look at the type of players that Carroll recruited at USC it was always the high potential guys. He rarely took the technician and low ceiling player. Campbell is a physical specimen and LOADS of potential. He is big, strong and with some coaching I believe he could dominate.
7. Cleveland Browns- Eric Berry, S, Tennessee- Berry is a great athlete and very well could be the next Ed Reed. With Brodney Pool leaving for the Jets it looks like a good place for Berry to go and make highlight reel plays for years to come. Mike Holmgren should be more than happy to get Berry playing centerfield like how he once had Darren Sharper in Green Bay. So the dog pound should be very happy with this pick.
Other Possibilities:
Jimmy Clausen, QB, Notre Dame- Holmgren says he will not take a quarterback this early but this time of the year every GM is lying about what is their plan. Holmgren is an elite QB developer and Clausen fits a need. A year or even a couple weeks behind Jake Delhomme would certainly help out the youngest QB of the top QB prospects.
Or
Derrick Morgan, DE, Georgia Tech- Reported that the Browns like Morgan better than Jason Pierre-Paul. Morgan would have to transition from the 4-3 to the 3-4 but many believe in the league that he could make the move smoothly.
Or
Dez Bryant, WR, Oklahoma State- By trading away Braylon Edwards and Kellen Winslow last year, the Browns have very few playmakers. Bryant is the best wideout in the draft and would help whoever will be the QB.
8. Oakland Raiders- Bruce Campbell, OT, Maryland- The fun begins with the Raiders. Let’s get this straight, there are only three options for the Raiders at this point in this mock draft. Only three, period. This is the one that makes the most sense. The Raiders need a tackle and Al Davis gets his “great” player here. Davis loves big, fast and strong specimens, and Campbell is all three for his great size and valuable position.
Other Possibilities:
Taylor Mays, S, USC- Possibly the greatest physical specimen in this year’s draft. The 6-3 230 pound safety ran an unofficial 4.24 40 yard dash at the combine and roughly that at his pro day. His body and measurables are off the charts. Has questions about his lateral quickness and his ability to cover the deep pass. Then again, he was injured most of this past season with a knee ailment that could have prevented his lateral movements.
Or
Jason Pierre-Paul, DE/OLB, South Florida- Is also a freak of nature. The dude is 6-6 and weighs 270. He ran a 4.64 40 at the combine and can do those gymnastic backflips over and over and over again. The video of it is on YouTube were he does 13 back flips in a row. I wonder how many times Al Davis has watched the video if he even knows what the internet is.
9. Buffalo Bills- Dan Williams, NT, Tennessee- The Bills are transitioning to the ever popular 3-4 defensive scheme. Even with trading for Marcus Stroud last offseason, a big nose tackle is a must for the scheme. Williams wasn’t even in the draft talk following three disappointing years at Tennessee but after a dominate senior season his stock has risen dramatically. The consensus third best defensive tackle prospect and the highest rated nose tackle prospect.
Other Possibilities:
Jimmy Clausen, QB, Notre Dame- They need a lot but Clausen could be special. Other needs will force Clausen to slide some more.
10. Jacksonville Jaguars- Dez Bryant, WR, Oklahoma State- Bryant is a potential star at a position where the Jags have drafted before but never struck gold. Bryant is better than a Reggie Williams or Matt Jones. David Garrard will thank management for finally giving him the number one receiver that the team has been attempting to get for years.
Like the past receiver selections of the Jags, Bryant has some of his own issues. Many teams reportedly have actually taken the stud from Oklahoma State off their boards entirely. That is utterly ridiculous. Bryant is a young immature kid who lied to NCAA officials about his time with former NFL diva Deion Sanders. Bryant has since hired a life skills coach and should have no further problems.
Other Possibilities:
Joe Haden, CB, Florida- Line him up across from Rashean Mathis and they could have the best cornerback tandem in the league with Haden eventually becoming the number one CB on the team.
Or
Jimmy Clausen, QB, Notre Dame- Sorry but David Garrard is getting old and really should not have been a Probowler last year.
11. Denver Broncos- Rolando McClain, ILB, Alabama- Pair him up with DJ Williams and they would be the best inside backer duo this year. Especially with Andra Davis being released, he is a major consideration to the Broncos. With a McClain and Williams tandem up the middle, teams will be more reluctant to run their way.
Right now in the rebuilding stage of the Broncos, defense is the most important as side of the ball. The Broncos defense was impenetrable the first six weeks of the season, but after they went through the easiest part of their schedule they started to wear down. McClain adds a tough mentality and will be a major focal point for the retooling of the proud franchise.
Other Possibilities:
Maurkice Pouncey, C/G, Florida- Flying up the draft boards. Center is a huge need for the Broncos and Pouncey is one of the best center prospects in 10 or so years.
12. Miami Dolphins- Jason Pierre-Paul, DE/OLB, South Florida- This specimen could replace the aging and reportedly departing free agent Jason Taylor and already departed Joey Porter (he too was a nuisance to his team as well as an aging veteran). This pick is of obvious need with the departing two edge rushers and value. JPP could be Bill Parcells’ next big time pass rusher (see Lawrence Taylor, Demarcus Ware, etc.).
Pierre-Paul is completely raw for Parcells to mold (Yes I know Parcells is not even a coach but whoever believes that he doesn’t help head coach Tony Sparano is kidding themselves). He is big, fast, agile and powerful. A complete specimen that is perfectly moldable. JJP has only been playing football since his junior year in high school; from there he attended two years at community colleges and then a single year at USF so he is extremely raw. Perfect for Parcells, Sparano and co. who will develop him like no other.
Other Possibilities:
Derrick Morgan, DE, Georgia Tech- Out jumped JPP in the vertical jump approximately 34” to 31 ½.” He may not be as athletic but isn’t a stiff. Could make the move to the 3-4 rushing OLB and I could just come down to who Parcells and Jeff Ireland prefer.
Or
Joe Haden, CB, Florida- With the two cornerbacks being drafted last year this is not a huge need but a safety sure would help. Drafting Haden would move Sean Smith to safety and shore up that secondary.
Or
Earl Thomas, S/CB, Texas- Yes he played safety at Texas but scouts say he could play corner or safety in the league. Either way he could fill that hole in the secondary for the ‘Fins.
13. San Francisco 49ers- Joe Haden, CB, Florida- The 49ers luck out again this year. Last year no one predicted that the highly coveted Michael Crabtree would somehow fall all the way to the 10th overall pick. Crabtree was not even the first WR taken last year; that title goes to the incredibly fast Darius Heyward-Bey who had no business going seventh overall to the Raiders (told you Al Davis loves his fast guys). This year San Francisco gets an ultra-talented prospect that should not be this low, again.
Haden had a poor 40 yard dash time at the combine but amazed at his pro day. Nate Clements, the $80 million man, has certainly disappointed in his time on the team but Haden would easily take over so Clements could move over to be the second. Haden could be a top 10 or 15 corner in the league right now he is so good. Terrific ball skills, instincts, he actually tackles for a DB, is big and strong for a corner, and certainly fast.
Other Possibilities:
Earl Thomas, S/CB, Texas- Would essentially do the same thing as Haden, but Haden won’t be there for the 49ers second first round pick and Thomas very well could be.
Or
CJ Spiller, RB, Clemson- Gore is entrenched as the starter but the kid from Clemson can do it all. He can run, catch, and return. Spiller could be a major consideration here especially because he could be gone in the next pick or two.
14. Seattle Seahawks- CJ Spiller, RB, Clemson- Julius Jones has been a joke since his rookie year and Justin Forsett doesn’t seem like a franchise back at his small size. CJ Spiller is a homerun waiting to happen anytime he touches the ball. Spiller is easily a top 10 talent but people don’t seem to respect him as a running back. Could be a Chris Johnson in waiting.
Spiller was the only college player to score in every game last year, and doing so in five different ways (punt return, kickoff return, reception, rush and throw a touchdown pass). Spiller will fit in perfectly with Pete Carroll’s offensive scheme. Watch for the Clemson senior standout to touch the ball in Seattle, A LOT.
Other Possibilities:
Jimmy Clausen, QB, Notre Dame- I really like him here as the eventual successor to Matt Hasselbeck. Though it may sound ridiculous, I think Carroll could wait until Matt Barkley comes out from USC. Sounds crazy but who is really going to tell Carroll what to do after they pried the decorated coach from USC after he won several national championships? Oh wait. That’s right, absolutely no one.
Or
Charles Brown, OT, USC- Very solid left tackle could be the pick if Walter Jones finally announces his long awaited retirement after not playing for nearly two years. Carroll is familiar with him since he was his college coach. Left tackle is also a big need with one of the worst lines in the league.
15. New York Giants- Derrick Morgan, DE, Georgia Tech- There is a reported good/great chance that the Giants will trade veteran Osi Umenyiora after he was benched coming back from injury. He is starting to cause troubles in the locker room which is creating a headache for the front office.
Morgan is generally rated the highest DE prospect after declaring after his junior year at Georgia Tech. Morgan possesses great size, strength, skill, smarts and anything else you could want. He has displayed an excellent work ethic, high motor and is possibly the most complete DE in the draft. He will end up moving the talented Mathias Kiwanuka back to linebacker or even forcing a trade of the young vet.
Other Possibilities:
Everson Griffin, DE, USC- Looked like he could have played in the NFL even as a senior in High School. Starting to slip in some boards but a legit 4-3 DE prospect with nice speed, power and moves. A little bit of an underachiever at USC but with motivation he could be a monster.
Or
Earl Thomas, S, Texas- No one except the Giants know how severe Kenny Phillips’ injury really is. If they feel that Phillips is done for, was rumored that his knee injury could be career-threatening, Thomas is a viable option.
16. Tennessee Titans, Carlos Dunlap, DE/OLB, South Florida- The Titans love there their workout warriors. Last year was Kenny Britt (2009), Chris Johnson (2008), and way back in 2007, Michael Griffin was even considered to be a workout warrior. This year the Titans will take the Jevon Kearse clone. He is big, fast, agile and powerful. A complete specimen with some character concerns. Dunlap is 6-6 290 and will easily replace the overachieving high-motor of Kyle Vanden Bosch.
Before the SEC title game, Dunlap was found passed out at a street light. He was intoxicated, charged with a DUI and suspended for the SEC title game. He was allowed to play in the Sugar Bowl but the damage had been done. He is coming out after his junior season which is risky due to his now evident character issues and suspected poor work ethic. Regardless, Dunlap should have a chip on his shoulder and be a dominate force in the league early in his professional career.
Other Possibilities:
Devin McCourty, CB, Rutgers- Would say Kyle Wilson because he is seemingly the second best corner in the draft but McCourty ran a 4.34 40.
Or
Everson Griffin, DE, USC- Considered to be a workout warrior in his own right but nothing along the like to JPP.
17. San Francisco 49ers- Anthony Davis, OT, Rutgers- I believe Davis is too talented to go this low. Davis was once projected as a top five pick but has dropped due to weight, work ethic, and some character issues. I believe Davis is suffering from what Andre Smith suffered from last year. Smith was projected as the top overall pick but had work ethic questions, his weight fluctuated, had an injury, and some small character questions. Smith did have a disappointing rookie season after he held out over the amount of money in his contract and promptly a week later broke his ankle.
Here again the Niners strike gold for the second time this drat and third time in the past two years. All the questions about Davis will allow San Francisco to steal a superior talent and continue to help former number one overall pick from 2005, Alex Smith. Davis will allow the 49ers to shift Joe Staley over to his more natural position of right tackle. The Rutgers product is the best pass protector in the draft and that seems like it will be more of a focus in the future. Davis could suffer the same fate but along with Smith will be a future franchise left tackle, pro bowler, and quite possibly an All-Pro.
Other Possibilities:
Jimmy Clausen, QB, Notre Dame- With a new incoming GM and Mike Singletary never getting his choice of a franchise QB, Clausen could just as easily be the pick. Clausen is the most prepared QB in the draft and if put in the spread offense like the Niners have been talking about, Clausen would torch teams around the league.
Or
Taylor Mays, S, USC- If the Niners were to take Mays, start the Ronnie Lott comparisons. He is a big physical safety that will draw the comparison.
18. Pittsburgh Steelers- Mike Iupati, OL, Idaho- Yea the Steelers have issues all over the place right now especially at QB. 2 time winning Super Bowl Champ, Ben Roethlisberger, is possibly in line for a suspension due to conduct detrimental to the league. But even with this, Ben needs to be protected. Roethlisberger was sacked the most of any quarterback last season, though some of his own doing from his style of play. Iupati will help the Steelers return to their identity of a smash mouth, power running game that the Steelers have been famous for.
Iupati is extremely talented. He could end up playing any line position except center. The Idaho product is a massive young man (6-5, 331). Even if Iupati doesn’t become that franchise left tackle he could become an all-pro at either guard position or right tackle. He needs to work on his pass protection but will maul in the run game. Loads of potential for this young man. Quite possibly the third best offensive line prospect behind Okung and Davis in my opinion.
Other Possibilities:
Kyle Wilson, CB, Boise State- His stock is picking up steam and with good reason. The guy can play. Could fit in nicely at corner across from Ike Taylor.
Or
Maurkice Pouncey, OL, Florida- Great upside. Right guard needs addressing and he could handle it then go to center eventually.
19. Atlanta Falcons- Kyle Wilson, CB/ KR, Boise State- The Dunta Robinson signing was nice but he has had two major knee operations and has noticeably slowed, he was once a burner and now could be even moved to safety due to his dwindling speed. He could always heal fully and regain some speed but a corner opposite of him would be nice. Jimmy Williams is expected to return fully from knee surgery himself but may actually be best suited for a safety position now.
Wilson will lock up the number two corner for now and could even play the nickel is Williams returns healthy. Wilson could end up being Atlanta’s shutdown corner as soon as the end of the season. A pass rusher opposite of John Abraham would be nice but their secondary was torn up last year.
Other Possibilities:
Brandon Graham, DE, Michigan- A very popular pick for the Falcons but I do not see this amazing potential that everyone has been talking about. He is decently fast for an end but he is small in size, 6-1, and did not dominate all throughout college like other smaller ends/ rushing lbs like Elvis Dumervill or Dwight Freeney.
Or
Devin McCourty, CB, Rutgers- Not as skilled as Wilson but Thomas Dimitroff (Falcons GM) may like McCourty more.
20. Houston Texans- Earl Thomas, S/CB, Texas- The Texans have figured out that they need to stop the Colts passing attack, the loss of Robinson won’t help but Thomas is a major upgrade at safety or could even play corner. Will form a three headed monster on the Texans defense with Mario Williams and DeMeco Ryans at every level of the defense.
Other Possibilities:
Ryan Matthews, RB, Fresno State- His strong showing at the combine proved to scouts that he is the real deal. Would instantly be an upgrade over any of Houston’s many backs.
Or
Brian Price, DT, UCLA- Would make the defensive line insane. A defensive line of Mario Williams, Amobi Okoye, Brian Price and Antonio Smith would be a great way of helping out the depleted secondary.
21. Cincinnati Bengals- Taylor Mays, S, USC- The Bengals sure do like their former Trojans: Keith Rivers, Rey Maualuga, Frostee Rucker, Carson Palmer and crew. Mays is a big, fast, and strong safety that just lost out on millions by not entering the draft last year. A knee injury slowed him down his senior season but Marvin Lewis (former Ravens defensive coordinator) will use him like no other. Would be an instant upgrade over the similar but inferior Roy Williams.
Other Possibilities:
Brian Price, DT, UCLA: Tank Johnson is always a suspension waiting to happen. Price would be a good fit next to Domata Peko.
Or
Jermaine Gresham, TE, Oklahoma- Another former all-american who lost a lot of money because he wanted to return to try to win a national championship. Blowing his knee out could affect his once unbelievable play but the Bengals desperately need a tight end with Chase Coffman seemingly busting on us right before our eyes on Hard Knocks last year.
22. New England Patriots- Jermaine Gresham, TE, Oklahoma- Bill Belichick let Chris Baker and Ben Watson walk. This is where he gets the two departed rolled into one if his knee fully heals. Brady will love having Gresham run across the middle for him. Possible elite TE.
Other Possibilities:
Jared Odrick, DE/DT, Penn State- Belichick could replace Richard Seymour right here. Odrick would be just another great piece in Belichick’s phase of getting younger with third year Jerod Mayo and Brandon Merriweather. Would be a nice piece on the D line alongside Vince Wilfork and Ty Warren.
Or
Sergio Kindle, DE/OLB, Texas- Tully Banta-Cain had a nice year back with the Pats but Kindle would instantly upgrade New England’s pass rush since the trade of Mike Vrabel.
Or
Jerry Hughes, DE/OLB, TCU- See Kindle above.
23. Green Bay Packers- Devin McCourty, CB, Rutgers- Al Harris is coming off a season-ending ACL tear. Harris is aging, 34, and NFL Defensive MVP Charles Woodson, 32, isn’t getting any younger himself. Neither can be said to be deteriorating in skills, especially Woodson with his Defensive MVP trophy but youth and depth needs to be addressed. .McCourty could start out as the Packers nickel back but could end up starting over Harris if he needs more time to heal.
Other Possibilities:
Charles Brown, OT, USC- Easily could have been the pick. The re-signing of Mark Tauscher and Chad Clifton persuaded me to go with the corner even though either could end up being injured like always. Aaron Rodgers will demand a new left tackle this year or next year. Better make sure you protect possibly the best QB in the NFL.
Or
Nate Allen, S, South Florida- Atari Bigby is a nice safety but he seems to be pulling a Bob Sanders, as in he is hurt more than on the field.
24. Philadelphia Eagles- Maurkice Pouncey, C/G, Florida- This is the type of pick that Andy Reid LOVES to make. Four of the last five first round picks that Philadelphia has had (no picks in first round in 2007 or 2008) have been picks for the trenches. Pouncey is considered to be possibly the best center prospect in the last 10 years. Reid could deploy Pouncey in the guard or center position and watch him rake in the pro-bowls.
Other Possibilities:
Nate Allen, S, South Florida- Safety could easily be upgraded for the Eagles.
25. Baltimore Ravens- Jared Odrick, DE/DT, Penn State- Dwan Edwards and Justin Bannan both went on to greener pasture. With this pick the Ravens will add depth and have the replacement of the future for Trevor Pryce.
Other Possibilities:
Demaryius Thomas, WR, Georgia Tech- They acquired Anquan Boldin earlier in the offseason to give Joe Flacco someone to throw to but he is not enough. Any number of wide receivers could be taken here.
Or
Aaron Hernandez, TE, Florida- Todd Heap is getting old and always seems to be listed on the injury list with some nagging pain. Hernandez isn’t in Gresham’s class in overall play but he may in fact be a superior receiver now that Gresham’s explosiveness comes into question now.
26. Arizona Cardinals-Sean Weatherspoon, LB, Missouri- Karlos Dansby went to Miami and became the richest linebacker in league history. Well there goes the Cards best defensive leader and probably player. Weatherspoon has loads of potential and will be a great leader himself. The loss of Dansby hurts in the short term but the Mizzou senior could make Cards fans forget who that Dansby guy was in the future.
Other Possibilities:
Sergio Kindle, DE/OLB, Texas- The Cards need to replace Chike Okeafor, Bertrand Berry and Clark Haggan who are all 33 or older. Kindle is bigger, stronger, and faster and could be more dominate than former Texas teammate Orakpo. Amazing how Kindle could slip to here or further after Orakpo was taken 13th overall. Would supplant the three vets from above and pair with recently acquired Joey Porter and give the Cards a potentially great pass rush.
Or
Jerry Hughes, DE/OLB, TCU- Again see Kindle above.
Or
Terrence Cody, NT, Alabama- The Cards could definitely use an upgrade at their 3-4 nose tackle. Brian Robinson will be 36 and Gabe Watson has been a major disappointment. Mount Cody is a mammoth of a man and could just be what the doctor ordered. Cody was near 400 pounds at the end of the season but lost roughly 25 pounds by the time the combine rolled around. At the Alabama pro day, he had further slimmed down to roughly 354, further skyrocketing his draft stock.
27. Dallas Cowboys- Nate Allen, S, South Florida- With Ken Hamlin’s release this is an area of need. Allen is actually able to cover unlike some safety prospects and has been rated higher on some teams boards above Mays (Mr. I can’t cover but I can lay the hammer). Allen would rejoin former USF standout Mike Jenkins who has begun to take off as possibly the Cowboys best corner.
Other Possibilities:
Brandon Spikes, ILB, Florida- Has been slipping big time on almost everyone’s draft board due to his poor workouts. Looking at the tape though is a whole other story. Spikes could sit a year behind Keith Brooking like how the disappointing Bobby Carpenter has been behind Bradie James.
28. San Diego Chargers- Ryan Matthews, RB, Fresno State- The Chargers did well with their last small school running back prospect (future Hall of Famer LaDainian Tomlinson who has since signed with the Jets) and Matthews could be the next big thing. Matthews is underrated by many but his measureables are impressive and displayed great skills running the ball. He is the best pure runner in this class of RB. Running back is a big need with only third down back and return specialist Darren Sproles the only back on the roster. Matthews will start from day one.
Other Possibilities:
Terrence Cody, NT, Alabama- I believe this is San Diego’s target in the second round to replace the released Jamal Williams but if someone take Matthews before 28 then Cody could be the pick. San Diego has some of their own guys that could possibly plat NT but Cody is built for the position.
Or
Damian Williams, WR, USC- He too has been slipping down the board for some odd reason but Chargers GM AJ Smith likes his big, fast and tall receivers which Williams fits the bill to a tee.
29. New York Jets- Sergio Kindle, DE/OLB, Texas- Would have picked WR Golden Tate from Notre Dame but the Jets robbed the Steelers of Santonio Holmes in a trade. The Jets this offseason had to get weapons for rookie QB standout Mark Sanchez and they have done that through trades and free agency. Now the Jets can focus on getting a pass rusher. Kindle will be a dominating piece on the already loaded Jets defense.
Other Possibilities:
Linval Joseph, NT, East Carolina- Could possibly be the next Haloti Ngata. Rex Ryan could use Joseph in the same manner. A nose tackle type that helps the actual nose tackle eat up space for the linebackers to dominate.
Or
Golden Tate, WR, Notre Dame- Holmes will be suspended for the first four games of the season and only has one year remaining on his contract, Braylon Edwards has a case of the dropsy’s, and Jerricho Cothcery is just solid. Tate has sure hands, great speed, good after the catch abilities, and has been finely coached at ND. Sanchez could use all the weapons he could get.
30. Minnesota Vikings- Brian Price, DT, UCLA- If Pat Williams actually retires like how he has been “threatening in the kindest way,” Price would be an excellent pick up. Price isn’t as big as Williams but he is more explosive and the Vikes already have Kevin Williams to pair him up with at DT.
Other Possibilities:
Jimmy Clausen, QB, Notre Dame- This should be the pick regardless but the Vikes are in LOVE with Brett Favre and will not do anything to make the old vet mad. Clausen would benefit from sitting behind Favre for a year or even two if Favre continued to play his old games. Favre: “I’m retiring,” crying during a sad press conference; then “WAIT! I haven’t had enough, I just didn’t want to go to training camp.” No one seems to notice how good Favre is at helping young eventual replacements or trade bait; i.e. Matt Hasselbeck and Aaron Rodgers. Clausen would be a great fit with the Vikes.
Or
Kareem Jackson, CB, Alabama- Possibly a reach but Cedric Griffin blew out his knee and could take a while to get healthy if he even can fully recover. On top of it all, Antoine Winfield is definitely not getting any younger. With a deep solid draft class though, the secondary could be addressed later.
31. Indianapolis Colts- Charles Brown, OT, USC- The Colts could use a new franchise left tackle. Charlie Johnson did an ok job and Tony Ugoh was good for a season or so but not a franchise LT. Protecting Peyton Manning is the most important thing for the Colts and Brown is a great pick here. A potential franchise left tackle.
Other Possibilities:
Jahvid Best, RB, Cal- Speed, speed, and more speed. Best has amazing, well, speed and could be a nice compliment to last year’s pick in Donald Brown. Joseph Addai is a free agent after the season and Best would be a more than adequate replacement.
Or
Everson Griffin, DE, USC- Not the typical Colts DE but would still be a good fit.
32. New Orleans Saints- Everson Griffin DE, USC- Was a man among boys in high school and looked like he could play in the league even then. He was a monster then and now but was kind of a disappointment in college. He never quite lived up to the hype but is still a superior talent. The Alex Brown signing does not discourage this pick. Griffin was better in high school than Brown was even when he was in the league at the time.
Other Possibilities:
Jerry Hughes, DE/OLB, TCU- Saints defensive coordinator Gregg Williams could have A LOT of fun with this young player.
NOTES:
-Jimmy Clausen will go in the first round plain and simple. He is way too talented and has too much potential. Someone will trade up to get him. Probably in the 20’s range but could go even to the Bills at nine. Clausen is my top rated QB in the draft but for some god awful reason, Bradford is actually rated higher by most. He will have a better career than Bradford and most likely go to a better team than Bradford.
-Don’t be surprised if Maurkice Pouncey goes as high as 11 to the Broncos after the trade of Brandon Marshall. McDaniels comes from New England were they love their O line prospects and center is a huge need for Denver. With all the wide receiver depth, the Broncos could even trade down and take a receiver later in say the second round. I could easily see Damian Williams from USC (2nd round) and a guy like Mike Williams from Syracuse (3rd or 4th round) go to Denver.
-Another side note on Pouncey. He is possibly the highest last minute riser this year. He was a projected late second round pick at first but now could go as soon as 11 as stated before.
-DO NOT, I repeat, DO NOT count out someone trying to trade up to select either Colt McCoy OR Tim Tebow in the first round. Lots of speculation that any number of teams would like to trade up to get either QB.
-Rolando McClain could go as high as five to the Chiefs. More likely is Denver at 11, Miami at 12, even San Francisco taking him at 13 if Haden or Spiller are gone.
-If you didn’t notice I said Spiller could go before 13 to SF. Spiller is underappreciated but certainly a top 10 talent. Watch out for someone trading up to get him or simply picking him in the eight to 10 range.
-Brian Bulaga is a tricky pick. He is overrated by many. He could go as high as five to the Chiefs or as low as 23 to the Packers.
-Workout warrior Bruce Campbell will probably go higher than he should. His athleticism and measureable will force someone to reach on the big guy with loads of potential. A huge risk/reward type player. I have Campbell going eight to Oakland but he could possibly fall to the second round if they feel his tape is just to troubling.
-By Clayton Fawcette
EVENT: 21st Annual Asian American Journalists Convention
Event: 21st Annual Asian American Journalists Convention
When: August 4 to 7, 2010.
Where: Renaissance Hotel, 1755 North Highland Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90028
The annual Asian American Journalists Association returns to Los Angeles for the first time in 17 years August 4-7, 2010 at the Renaissance Hotel near the famous Hollywood & Highland entertainment complex. Our world-class program features panels and workshops to strengthen your skills in this dynamic field. Learn new technologies and techniques for investigative journalism, developing stories for multi-media platforms, covering ethnic communities and foreign coverage.
Some conference highlights:
Job recruiters from The Associated Press, CNN, The Detroit News, Eli Lilly and Company, Gannett Co., Inc, Gilead, Marketwire, The McClatchy Company, NBC News, The New York Times, NY Daily News, Social Imprints, USA TODAY, The Washington Post and more TBA.
Laura Ling, a correspondent for Current TV, who was detained in North Korea for 140 days and brought back to the U.S. by Bill Clinton. She has since become an advocate for imprisoned journalists around the world and trafficked women.
Ben Fong-Torres, a former senior editor and writer with Rolling Stone magazine, who was portrayed in Almost Famous, the 2000 film by Cameron Crowe. The Renaissance Media Man blazed trails both print and broadcast media during the revolutionary, counter-cultural civil rights-embattled 1960s.
AAJA's founders and other Asian American media pioneers.
Free dinner cruise of the beautiful Long Beach Harbor, home of the historic Queen Mary. Transportation to and from the harbor included.
Opening night reception
Silent auction
Gala banquet
Networking mixers
Field trips to Disneyland, The Price Is Right TV show, Huntington Gardens
Register online or download the convention registration book which includes travel information, convention highlights, national awards forms, and more.
http://www.aaja.org/programs/AAJA_National_Convention/registration
Registration: $300. On-site registration: $375. The first 100 registrants to book their hotel by May 1 get free Wi-Fi access in their rooms.
Here’s a video that introduces the history of AAJA, and its founders, six Los Angeles journalists.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eDAIjOnCWBU
Here is some more background info on AAJA’s history:
http://www.aaja.org/about/mission/
More info on the Vincent Chin story prominently featured in the promo:
http://asianweek.com/061397/feature.html
Friday, April 16, 2010
FEATURE: Coachella music festival
This weekend California will see one of the biggest music festivals of the year.
Thousands will flock to attend the annual Coachella music festival on April 16, 17, and 18.
Each day will feature a large amount of bands and artists that will appeal to many so no one will feel like an outcast.
The price, however, might not have been some would be willing to pay as the Festival Pass would have cost one $285.
That’s a hefty sum but considering the talent that will be there, perhaps the price isn’t so steep. It will be headlined by Jay-Z on Friday night, on Saturday night Muse will close out the festivities and Sunday night will see the Gorillaz bring an end to the weekend.
Aside from the headliners the weekend will see many great bands such Porcupine Tree, Vampire Weekend, She and Him, Les Claypool, Them Crooked Vultures, Thom Yorke and many, many more!
Here’s a complete list of the weekend line up.
For more information on the even visit http://www.coachella.com/
April 16th, 2010
Aeroplane
Alana Grace
As Tall As Lions
Baroness
Benny Benassi
Calle 13
Ceu
deadmau5
Deer Tick
DJ Lance Rock
Echo & the Bunnymen
Erol Alkan
Fever Ray
Gil Scott-Heron
Grizzly Bear
Hockey
Iglu & Hartly
Imogen Heap
Jay-Z
Jets Overhead
Kate Miller-Heidke
La Roux
LCD Soundsystem
Little Dragon
Lucero
Pablo Hassan
Passion Pit
Perry Farrell vs. Steve Porter
P.O.S.
Proxy
Public Image Limited
Ra Ra Riot
She & Him
Sleigh Bells
Pretty Lights
Street Sweeper Social Club
The Avett Brothers
The Cribs
The Dillinger Escape Plan
The Specials
The Whitest Boy Alive
Them Crooked Vultures
Vampire Weekend
Wale
Wolfgang Gartner
Yeasayer
April 17th, 2010
2 many DJ's
Aterciopelados
Bad Lieutenant
Band of Skulls
Bassnectar
Beach House
Camera Obscura
Coheed and Cambria
Corinne Bailey Rae
Craze & Klever
David Guetta
Sam XL
DEVO
Die Antwoord
Dirty Projectors
Jason Bentley
Dirty South
Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros
Faith No More
Flying Lotus
Frank Turner
Frightened Rabbit
GIRLS
Gossip
Hot Chip
John Waters
Kaskade
Les Claypool
Major Lazer
MGMT
Muse
Old Crow Medicine Show
Porcupine Tree
Portugal. The Man
RX Bandits
Shooter Jennings & Hierophant
Sia
Steel Train
The Almighty Defenders
The Dead Weather
The Raveonettes
The Temper Trap
The xx
Tiesto
Tokyo Police Club
White Rabbits
Z-Trip
Zoe
April 18th, 2010
B.o.B.
Babasonicos
Charlotte Gainsbourg
Club 75
De La Soul
Deerhunter
Delphic
Florence & The Machine
Gary Numan
Gorillaz
Hypnotic Brass Ensemble
Infected Mushroom
Jonsi
Julian Casablancas
Kevin Devine
King Khan & the Shrines
Little Boots
Local Natives
Matt & Kim
Mayer Hawthorne & the County
Miike Snow
MUTEMATH
One eskimO
Orbital
Owen Pallett
PAPARAZZI
Pavement
Phoenix
Richie Hawtin presents Plastikman Live
Rusko
Sly Stone
Spoon
Sunny Day Real Estate
Talvin Singh
The Big Pink
The Glitch Mob
The Middle East
The Soft Pack
Thom Yorke
Yann Tiersen
Yo La Tengo
-By Armando Nuñez
Thousands will flock to attend the annual Coachella music festival on April 16, 17, and 18.
Each day will feature a large amount of bands and artists that will appeal to many so no one will feel like an outcast.
The price, however, might not have been some would be willing to pay as the Festival Pass would have cost one $285.
That’s a hefty sum but considering the talent that will be there, perhaps the price isn’t so steep. It will be headlined by Jay-Z on Friday night, on Saturday night Muse will close out the festivities and Sunday night will see the Gorillaz bring an end to the weekend.
Aside from the headliners the weekend will see many great bands such Porcupine Tree, Vampire Weekend, She and Him, Les Claypool, Them Crooked Vultures, Thom Yorke and many, many more!
Here’s a complete list of the weekend line up.
For more information on the even visit http://www.coachella.com/
April 16th, 2010
Aeroplane
Alana Grace
As Tall As Lions
Baroness
Benny Benassi
Calle 13
Ceu
deadmau5
Deer Tick
DJ Lance Rock
Echo & the Bunnymen
Erol Alkan
Fever Ray
Gil Scott-Heron
Grizzly Bear
Hockey
Iglu & Hartly
Imogen Heap
Jay-Z
Jets Overhead
Kate Miller-Heidke
La Roux
LCD Soundsystem
Little Dragon
Lucero
Pablo Hassan
Passion Pit
Perry Farrell vs. Steve Porter
P.O.S.
Proxy
Public Image Limited
Ra Ra Riot
She & Him
Sleigh Bells
Pretty Lights
Street Sweeper Social Club
The Avett Brothers
The Cribs
The Dillinger Escape Plan
The Specials
The Whitest Boy Alive
Them Crooked Vultures
Vampire Weekend
Wale
Wolfgang Gartner
Yeasayer
April 17th, 2010
2 many DJ's
Aterciopelados
Bad Lieutenant
Band of Skulls
Bassnectar
Beach House
Camera Obscura
Coheed and Cambria
Corinne Bailey Rae
Craze & Klever
David Guetta
Sam XL
DEVO
Die Antwoord
Dirty Projectors
Jason Bentley
Dirty South
Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros
Faith No More
Flying Lotus
Frank Turner
Frightened Rabbit
GIRLS
Gossip
Hot Chip
John Waters
Kaskade
Les Claypool
Major Lazer
MGMT
Muse
Old Crow Medicine Show
Porcupine Tree
Portugal. The Man
RX Bandits
Shooter Jennings & Hierophant
Sia
Steel Train
The Almighty Defenders
The Dead Weather
The Raveonettes
The Temper Trap
The xx
Tiesto
Tokyo Police Club
White Rabbits
Z-Trip
Zoe
April 18th, 2010
B.o.B.
Babasonicos
Charlotte Gainsbourg
Club 75
De La Soul
Deerhunter
Delphic
Florence & The Machine
Gary Numan
Gorillaz
Hypnotic Brass Ensemble
Infected Mushroom
Jonsi
Julian Casablancas
Kevin Devine
King Khan & the Shrines
Little Boots
Local Natives
Matt & Kim
Mayer Hawthorne & the County
Miike Snow
MUTEMATH
One eskimO
Orbital
Owen Pallett
PAPARAZZI
Pavement
Phoenix
Richie Hawtin presents Plastikman Live
Rusko
Sly Stone
Spoon
Sunny Day Real Estate
Talvin Singh
The Big Pink
The Glitch Mob
The Middle East
The Soft Pack
Thom Yorke
Yann Tiersen
Yo La Tengo
-By Armando Nuñez
Thursday, April 15, 2010
NEWS: City election rundown
The Lancaster City voting polls are now closed and our Mayor R. Rex Parris has been re-elected. All of the ballot measures have been passed. And the two council members have been elected.
Our current mayor has been re-elected. Parris won with 57.3 percent of the voter approval.
Ron smith was also re-elected to the city council with 29.2 percent of voter approval.
New to the city council, Marvin E. Crist also won a city council seat with 27.4 percent of voter approval.
The voters passed every measure proposed.
Among these measures is Measure M. Measure M extends the term of the mayor from two years to four years. This measure will be effective by 2012. Which is the time the next mayor is to be in office. Measure M was passed with 55.5 percent of voter approval.
Measure I was also passed by voters with 75.8 of approval. This measure is explained on the ballot as “…whether the city council should continue to follow its adopted invocation policy.”
Measure C passed with 71.1 percent of voter approval.
The charter can be seen below.
MEASURE C
PROPOSED CHARTER
EXHIBIT A
CHARTER OF CITY OF LANCASTER
PREAMBLE
We the people of the City of Lancaster, State of California, declare our intent to restore to our community the historic principles of self governance inherent in the doctrine of home-rule. Sincerely committed to the belief that local government has the closest affinity to the people governed, and fi rm in the conviction that the economic and fiscal independence of our local government will promote the health, safety and welfare of all the citizens of this City, we do hereby exercise the express right granted by the Constitution of the State of California to enact and adopt this Charter
for the City of Lancaster.
CHARTER
Article I - Municipal Affairs
Section 100. Powers. The City shall have all powers possible for a City to have under the Constitution and laws of the State of California as fully and completely as though they were specifically enumerated in this Charter. Specifically, but not by way of limitation, the City shall have the power to make and enforce all laws and regulations with respect to municipal affairs, subject only to such restrictions and limitations as may be provided in this Charter and in the Constitution of the State of California. It shall also have the power to exercise any and all rights, powers and privileges heretofore or hereafter established, granted, or prescribed by any law of the State, by this Charter, or by other lawful authority, or which a municipal corporation might or could exercise under the Constitution of the State of California.
Without limiting in any manner the foregoing power and authority, each of the powers, rights, and responsibilities described in this Charter is hereby declared to be a municipal affair, the performance of which is unique to the benefit and welfare of the citizens of the City of Lancaster. The enumeration in this Charter of any particular power, duty or procedure shall not be held to be exclusive of, or any limitation or restriction upon, this general grant of power.
Section 101. General Law Powers. In addition to the power and authority granted by the terms of this Charter and the Constitution of the State of California, the City shall have the power and authority to adopt, make, exercise and enforce all legislation, laws and regulations and to take all actions and to exercise any and all rights, powers, and privileges heretofore or hereafter established, granted or prescribed by any law of the State of California or by any other lawful authority. In the event of any conflict between the provisions of this Charter and the provisions of the general laws of the State of California, the provisions of this Charter shall control.
Section 102. Elections. The City of Lancaster shall have the power to adopt ordinances establishing procedures, rules or regulations concerning City of Lancaster elections and public officials, including but not limited to, the qualifications and compensation of elected officials, the method, time and requirements to hold elections, to fill vacant offices and for voting by mail. Unless in conflict with ordinances adopted by the City, state law regarding elections shall apply.
Section 103. Fines and Penalties. The City of Lancaster shall have the power to adopt ordinances establishing penalties, fines and forfeitures for violations of the provisions of the Lancaster Municipal Code.
Section 104. Incorporation and Succession. The City shall continue to be a municipal corporation known as the City of Lancaster. The boundaries of the City of Lancaster shall continue as now established until changed in the manner authorized by law. The City shall remain vested with and shall continue to own, have, possess, control and enjoy all property rights and rights of action of every nature and description owned, had, possessed, controlled or enjoyed by it at the time this Charter takes effect, and is hereby declared to be the successor of same. It shall be subject to all debts, obligations and liabilities, which exist against the City at the time this Charter takes effect. All lawful ordinances, resolutions, rules and regulations, or portions thereof, in force at the time this Charter takes effect and not in conflict with or inconsistent herewith, are hereby continued in force until the same have been duly repealed, amended, changed or superseded by proper authority.
Article II – Form of Government
Section 200. Council-Manager Form of Government. The municipal government established by this Charter shall be the “Council-Manager” form of government, under which the Mayor and City Council set policy and the City Manager carries out that policy. The City Manager shall meet and confer with the Mayor prior to conducting a final interview or making the appointment of a Department Head or the Assistant or Deputy City Manager.
Section 201. Mayor and City Council. The City shall be governed by, and all powers of the City shall be vested in, the Mayor and City Council. The City Council consists of four Council Members each elected to office from the City at large in the manner provided by the laws of the State or procedures adopted by ordinance. The Mayor shall be elected to office from the City at large. The Mayor and each City Council Member shall have equal votes on all matters coming before the City Council. The Mayor and each City Council Member in office at the time this Charter takes effect shall continue in office until the end of the term for which he or she was elected or appointed subject to the right of the people to recall the Mayor or a City Council Member from office as provided in the laws of the State.
Section 202. The Mayor. In addition to any other authority granted to the Mayor by this Charter, the ordinances and regulations of the City or laws of the State, but not by way of limitation, as provided in Government Code Section 40605, the Mayor, with the consent of the City Council, shall have the authority to make all appointments to, or removals from all boards, commissions and committees.
Section 203. Compensation. Compensation for the Mayor and each City Council Member may be set, and from time to time may be changed by ordinance, which ordinance shall be adopted by a four-fi fths vote of the Mayor and City Council.
Article III - Revenue, Savings and Generation
Section 300. Public Works Contracts. Except as provided in Section 301, the City shall have the power to establish standards, procedures, rules or regulations to regulate all aspects of the bidding, award and performance of any public works contract, including, but not limited to, the compensation rates to be paid for the performance of such work.
Section 301. Prevailing Wages. Except for public works projects of one thousand dollars ($1,000) or less, not less than the general prevailing rate of per diem wages as provided in California Labor Code section 1770 et seq., as now existing and as may be amended, shall be paid to all workers employed on public works projects. This section shall not apply to work that is performed which is not under contract, work that is performed by the City’s own forces or
on work performed under a declaration of a state of emergency, pursuant to the provisions of the California Emergency Services Act, Government Code section 8550.
Section 302. Public Financing. The City shall have the power to establish standards, procedures, rules or regulations related to any public fi nancing.
Section 303. Utility Franchises. The City shall have the power to adopt any ordinance providing for the acquisition, development, or operation by the City of any public utility, or any ordinance providing for the granting of a franchise to any public utility not owned by the City which proposes to use or is using City streets, highways or other
rights-of-way.
Section 304. Enterprises. The City shall have the power to engage in any enterprise deemed necessary to produce revenues for the general fund or any other fund established by the City Council to promote a public purpose.
Article IV - Revenue Retention
Section 400. Reductions Prohibited. Any revenues raised and collected by the City shall not be subject to subtraction, retention, attachment, withdrawal or any other form of involuntary reduction by any other level of
government.
Section 401. Mandates Limited. No person, whether elected or appointed, acting on behalf of the City, shall be required to perform any function which is mandated by any other level of government, unless and until funds suffi cient
for the performance of such function are provided by said mandating authority.
Article V – Amendment
Section 500. Amendment to Charter, Revision or Repeal. This Charter and any of its provisions may be amended by a majority vote of the electors voting on the question. Amendment, revision or repeal may be proposed by
initiative or by the governing body.
Article VI – Interpretation
Section 600. Construction and Interpretation. The language contained in this Charter is intended to be permissive rather than exclusive or limiting and shall be liberally and broadly construed in favor of the exercise by the City of its power to govern with respect to any matter which is a municipal affair.
Section 601. Severability. If any provision of this Charter should be held by a court of competent jurisdiction to be invalid, void or otherwise unenforceable, the remaining provisions shall remain enforceable to the fullest extent
permitted by law.
-By Antonio De La O
Our current mayor has been re-elected. Parris won with 57.3 percent of the voter approval.
Ron smith was also re-elected to the city council with 29.2 percent of voter approval.
New to the city council, Marvin E. Crist also won a city council seat with 27.4 percent of voter approval.
The voters passed every measure proposed.
Among these measures is Measure M. Measure M extends the term of the mayor from two years to four years. This measure will be effective by 2012. Which is the time the next mayor is to be in office. Measure M was passed with 55.5 percent of voter approval.
Measure I was also passed by voters with 75.8 of approval. This measure is explained on the ballot as “…whether the city council should continue to follow its adopted invocation policy.”
Measure C passed with 71.1 percent of voter approval.
The charter can be seen below.
MEASURE C
PROPOSED CHARTER
EXHIBIT A
CHARTER OF CITY OF LANCASTER
PREAMBLE
We the people of the City of Lancaster, State of California, declare our intent to restore to our community the historic principles of self governance inherent in the doctrine of home-rule. Sincerely committed to the belief that local government has the closest affinity to the people governed, and fi rm in the conviction that the economic and fiscal independence of our local government will promote the health, safety and welfare of all the citizens of this City, we do hereby exercise the express right granted by the Constitution of the State of California to enact and adopt this Charter
for the City of Lancaster.
CHARTER
Article I - Municipal Affairs
Section 100. Powers. The City shall have all powers possible for a City to have under the Constitution and laws of the State of California as fully and completely as though they were specifically enumerated in this Charter. Specifically, but not by way of limitation, the City shall have the power to make and enforce all laws and regulations with respect to municipal affairs, subject only to such restrictions and limitations as may be provided in this Charter and in the Constitution of the State of California. It shall also have the power to exercise any and all rights, powers and privileges heretofore or hereafter established, granted, or prescribed by any law of the State, by this Charter, or by other lawful authority, or which a municipal corporation might or could exercise under the Constitution of the State of California.
Without limiting in any manner the foregoing power and authority, each of the powers, rights, and responsibilities described in this Charter is hereby declared to be a municipal affair, the performance of which is unique to the benefit and welfare of the citizens of the City of Lancaster. The enumeration in this Charter of any particular power, duty or procedure shall not be held to be exclusive of, or any limitation or restriction upon, this general grant of power.
Section 101. General Law Powers. In addition to the power and authority granted by the terms of this Charter and the Constitution of the State of California, the City shall have the power and authority to adopt, make, exercise and enforce all legislation, laws and regulations and to take all actions and to exercise any and all rights, powers, and privileges heretofore or hereafter established, granted or prescribed by any law of the State of California or by any other lawful authority. In the event of any conflict between the provisions of this Charter and the provisions of the general laws of the State of California, the provisions of this Charter shall control.
Section 102. Elections. The City of Lancaster shall have the power to adopt ordinances establishing procedures, rules or regulations concerning City of Lancaster elections and public officials, including but not limited to, the qualifications and compensation of elected officials, the method, time and requirements to hold elections, to fill vacant offices and for voting by mail. Unless in conflict with ordinances adopted by the City, state law regarding elections shall apply.
Section 103. Fines and Penalties. The City of Lancaster shall have the power to adopt ordinances establishing penalties, fines and forfeitures for violations of the provisions of the Lancaster Municipal Code.
Section 104. Incorporation and Succession. The City shall continue to be a municipal corporation known as the City of Lancaster. The boundaries of the City of Lancaster shall continue as now established until changed in the manner authorized by law. The City shall remain vested with and shall continue to own, have, possess, control and enjoy all property rights and rights of action of every nature and description owned, had, possessed, controlled or enjoyed by it at the time this Charter takes effect, and is hereby declared to be the successor of same. It shall be subject to all debts, obligations and liabilities, which exist against the City at the time this Charter takes effect. All lawful ordinances, resolutions, rules and regulations, or portions thereof, in force at the time this Charter takes effect and not in conflict with or inconsistent herewith, are hereby continued in force until the same have been duly repealed, amended, changed or superseded by proper authority.
Article II – Form of Government
Section 200. Council-Manager Form of Government. The municipal government established by this Charter shall be the “Council-Manager” form of government, under which the Mayor and City Council set policy and the City Manager carries out that policy. The City Manager shall meet and confer with the Mayor prior to conducting a final interview or making the appointment of a Department Head or the Assistant or Deputy City Manager.
Section 201. Mayor and City Council. The City shall be governed by, and all powers of the City shall be vested in, the Mayor and City Council. The City Council consists of four Council Members each elected to office from the City at large in the manner provided by the laws of the State or procedures adopted by ordinance. The Mayor shall be elected to office from the City at large. The Mayor and each City Council Member shall have equal votes on all matters coming before the City Council. The Mayor and each City Council Member in office at the time this Charter takes effect shall continue in office until the end of the term for which he or she was elected or appointed subject to the right of the people to recall the Mayor or a City Council Member from office as provided in the laws of the State.
Section 202. The Mayor. In addition to any other authority granted to the Mayor by this Charter, the ordinances and regulations of the City or laws of the State, but not by way of limitation, as provided in Government Code Section 40605, the Mayor, with the consent of the City Council, shall have the authority to make all appointments to, or removals from all boards, commissions and committees.
Section 203. Compensation. Compensation for the Mayor and each City Council Member may be set, and from time to time may be changed by ordinance, which ordinance shall be adopted by a four-fi fths vote of the Mayor and City Council.
Article III - Revenue, Savings and Generation
Section 300. Public Works Contracts. Except as provided in Section 301, the City shall have the power to establish standards, procedures, rules or regulations to regulate all aspects of the bidding, award and performance of any public works contract, including, but not limited to, the compensation rates to be paid for the performance of such work.
Section 301. Prevailing Wages. Except for public works projects of one thousand dollars ($1,000) or less, not less than the general prevailing rate of per diem wages as provided in California Labor Code section 1770 et seq., as now existing and as may be amended, shall be paid to all workers employed on public works projects. This section shall not apply to work that is performed which is not under contract, work that is performed by the City’s own forces or
on work performed under a declaration of a state of emergency, pursuant to the provisions of the California Emergency Services Act, Government Code section 8550.
Section 302. Public Financing. The City shall have the power to establish standards, procedures, rules or regulations related to any public fi nancing.
Section 303. Utility Franchises. The City shall have the power to adopt any ordinance providing for the acquisition, development, or operation by the City of any public utility, or any ordinance providing for the granting of a franchise to any public utility not owned by the City which proposes to use or is using City streets, highways or other
rights-of-way.
Section 304. Enterprises. The City shall have the power to engage in any enterprise deemed necessary to produce revenues for the general fund or any other fund established by the City Council to promote a public purpose.
Article IV - Revenue Retention
Section 400. Reductions Prohibited. Any revenues raised and collected by the City shall not be subject to subtraction, retention, attachment, withdrawal or any other form of involuntary reduction by any other level of
government.
Section 401. Mandates Limited. No person, whether elected or appointed, acting on behalf of the City, shall be required to perform any function which is mandated by any other level of government, unless and until funds suffi cient
for the performance of such function are provided by said mandating authority.
Article V – Amendment
Section 500. Amendment to Charter, Revision or Repeal. This Charter and any of its provisions may be amended by a majority vote of the electors voting on the question. Amendment, revision or repeal may be proposed by
initiative or by the governing body.
Article VI – Interpretation
Section 600. Construction and Interpretation. The language contained in this Charter is intended to be permissive rather than exclusive or limiting and shall be liberally and broadly construed in favor of the exercise by the City of its power to govern with respect to any matter which is a municipal affair.
Section 601. Severability. If any provision of this Charter should be held by a court of competent jurisdiction to be invalid, void or otherwise unenforceable, the remaining provisions shall remain enforceable to the fullest extent
permitted by law.
-By Antonio De La O
NEWS: Name our campus roads
FACILITIES PLANNING & CAMPUS DEVELOPMENT
CAMPUS ROAD NAMING
We need your help! We need your suggestions to name the many roads on the AVC campus.
A project to name the many roads on the Antelope Valley College campus has been initiated by Facilities Planning & Campus Development and we need the AVC community to help us come up with potential road names for the campus roads.
Naming the campus roads will improve wayfinding as well as improve the college identity. Approximately twelve campus roads may be named. Naming suggestions will be reviewed by the SPBC Facilities committee with recommendations forwarded to the President and then to the Board of Trustees for final approval.
You can submit your road name suggestions by email to Doug Jensen, Director, Facilities Planning & Campus Development at djensen@avc.edu
or
by campus mail to Facilities Planning & Campus Development.
The deadline for receiving naming suggestions is May 14th!
Your participation is appreciated.
CAMPUS ROAD NAMING
We need your help! We need your suggestions to name the many roads on the AVC campus.
A project to name the many roads on the Antelope Valley College campus has been initiated by Facilities Planning & Campus Development and we need the AVC community to help us come up with potential road names for the campus roads.
Naming the campus roads will improve wayfinding as well as improve the college identity. Approximately twelve campus roads may be named. Naming suggestions will be reviewed by the SPBC Facilities committee with recommendations forwarded to the President and then to the Board of Trustees for final approval.
You can submit your road name suggestions by email to Doug Jensen, Director, Facilities Planning & Campus Development at djensen@avc.edu
or
by campus mail to Facilities Planning & Campus Development.
The deadline for receiving naming suggestions is May 14th!
Your participation is appreciated.
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
NEWS: Campus crime blotter
Campus Sheriff‘s Crime Blotter
1/8/10, 7:30 a.m-4:30p.m.-vehicle tampering in lot six. A catalytic converter was stolen from a parked vehicle.
1/15/10, 11:20 a.m.-disruptive student in Financial Aid Office. A female student had a verbal argument with the financial aid staff in the Student Services building. She was cited and released for a Lancaster Municipal citation warrant.
1/19/09, 2 p.m.-burglary at the Business Education building. Between 12/22/09-1/04/10 a laptop was taken from a locked office during winter break.
1/22/10, 10 a.m.-vandalism. Between 1/19/10-1/20/10 on the south campus in Palmdale two windows were shot out with a pellet gun.
1/22/10, 11 a.m.-burglary occurred in the Stadium Press box. A laptop was stolen. The crime took place between 12/15/09—1/04/10.
1/26/10, 12:34 p.m.-disruptive student at Dean of Student Services office. A male student was demanding services from the dean’s office and started a verbal argument. The deputies cautioned the student about his behavior.
2/4/10, 3:30 p.m. - found narcotics in Business Education building. Marijuana was found in the ladies’ restroom.
2/9/10, 3:30 p.m.-Burglary at the Applied Arts building. Between 12/3/09-2/9/10 photography equipment was stolen from the journalism classroom. The cameras and tape recorders were valued at $4,000.
2/10/10, 12:57 p.m.-Electrical fire at the Business Education building. Two light fixtures shorted out in the building, causing it to fill with smoke. Campus deputies assisted in evacuating the building.
2/10/10, 3:30 p.m.-vandalism in the Student Services building. Gang graffiti was found in the men’s restroom.
2/11/10-student medical emergency at Student Services building, room 180. Paramedics were called for a female student complaining of chest and side pains.
2/16/10, 12:17 p.m.-student disturbance at the Student Services building. There was a verbal argument between three male students, two of the students were located and detained. One of the students was arrested on a parole violation and had his car towed from the parking lot.
2/18/10, 8:27 p.m.-arrest for felony warrant. A male student was arrested on a felony warrant.
3/1/10, 11:50 a.m.-possession of marijuana at the center of campus. A male student had marijuana in his possession; he was cited for that and released.
3/1/10, 8:15 p.m. - student with medical emergency at the Business Education building. A female student had chest pains and difficulty breathing, so the campus deputies called the Los Angeles County Fire Department and they transported her to Antelope Valley Hospital.
3/1/10-A student reported a male slumped over in a car just off campus. The deputies responded and suspected his was in a diabetic coma. They called emergency services for him and secured his vehicle until his roommate picked it up.
-By Rosemarie Tighe
1/8/10, 7:30 a.m-4:30p.m.-vehicle tampering in lot six. A catalytic converter was stolen from a parked vehicle.
1/15/10, 11:20 a.m.-disruptive student in Financial Aid Office. A female student had a verbal argument with the financial aid staff in the Student Services building. She was cited and released for a Lancaster Municipal citation warrant.
1/19/09, 2 p.m.-burglary at the Business Education building. Between 12/22/09-1/04/10 a laptop was taken from a locked office during winter break.
1/22/10, 10 a.m.-vandalism. Between 1/19/10-1/20/10 on the south campus in Palmdale two windows were shot out with a pellet gun.
1/22/10, 11 a.m.-burglary occurred in the Stadium Press box. A laptop was stolen. The crime took place between 12/15/09—1/04/10.
1/26/10, 12:34 p.m.-disruptive student at Dean of Student Services office. A male student was demanding services from the dean’s office and started a verbal argument. The deputies cautioned the student about his behavior.
2/4/10, 3:30 p.m. - found narcotics in Business Education building. Marijuana was found in the ladies’ restroom.
2/9/10, 3:30 p.m.-Burglary at the Applied Arts building. Between 12/3/09-2/9/10 photography equipment was stolen from the journalism classroom. The cameras and tape recorders were valued at $4,000.
2/10/10, 12:57 p.m.-Electrical fire at the Business Education building. Two light fixtures shorted out in the building, causing it to fill with smoke. Campus deputies assisted in evacuating the building.
2/10/10, 3:30 p.m.-vandalism in the Student Services building. Gang graffiti was found in the men’s restroom.
2/11/10-student medical emergency at Student Services building, room 180. Paramedics were called for a female student complaining of chest and side pains.
2/16/10, 12:17 p.m.-student disturbance at the Student Services building. There was a verbal argument between three male students, two of the students were located and detained. One of the students was arrested on a parole violation and had his car towed from the parking lot.
2/18/10, 8:27 p.m.-arrest for felony warrant. A male student was arrested on a felony warrant.
3/1/10, 11:50 a.m.-possession of marijuana at the center of campus. A male student had marijuana in his possession; he was cited for that and released.
3/1/10, 8:15 p.m. - student with medical emergency at the Business Education building. A female student had chest pains and difficulty breathing, so the campus deputies called the Los Angeles County Fire Department and they transported her to Antelope Valley Hospital.
3/1/10-A student reported a male slumped over in a car just off campus. The deputies responded and suspected his was in a diabetic coma. They called emergency services for him and secured his vehicle until his roommate picked it up.
-By Rosemarie Tighe
NEWS: Rex Parris to serve another term
The results are in and the election is over leaving Rex Parris in office. Winning the vote with 57.3 percent of the total vote, Rex Parris will continue serving as mayor of Lancaster, CA. Other candidates ranked as follows:
Gene Gaynor: 1.9%
R. Lyle Talbot: 2.4%
Arnold A. Rodio: 36.2%
David Paul: 2.0%
Ron Smith won the vote for city council member. Measure M passed, measure C passed, and measure I passed.
.
you can download the pdf here http://rapidshare.com/files/376070989/Summary-Unofficial_Election_Results_2010.zip.htm
-By Antonio De La O and Russell S.
Gene Gaynor: 1.9%
R. Lyle Talbot: 2.4%
Arnold A. Rodio: 36.2%
David Paul: 2.0%
Ron Smith won the vote for city council member. Measure M passed, measure C passed, and measure I passed.
.
you can download the pdf here http://rapidshare.com/files/376070989/Summary-Unofficial_Election_Results_2010.zip.htm
-By Antonio De La O and Russell S.
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
NEWS: Driving today?
-Photo by Russell S.If you were planning on going out today, you might find yourself in some unexpected traffic.
Today it seems that the traffic lights at L and 30th west are on a brief hiatus. This includes all four directions, which means anyone driving through the intersection is affected.
That light gets a lot of traffic, as the freeway entrance and exit are only about one and a half miles east.
If you're planning on heading that way, a detour is highly recommended.
-By Antonio De La O
Sunday, April 4, 2010
BREAKING NEWS: 7.2 earthquake hits baja
Just minutes ago an earthquake shook Southern California but originated in Baja, Mexico. Details are thus far inconclusive. Here is the government survey that states the magnitude and location http://earthquake.usgs.gov/earthquakes/. Coverage is continuing on national news programs, tune in for updates.
- by Russell S.
- by Russell S.
Thursday, April 1, 2010
SPORTS: Stupar is back on the job
Rebuilding may be easier than expected
The Marauder soccer team spring training has begun. Last year’s women’s soccer team’s miraculous odyssey is over and it's time to add a few new faces to the roster.
Fresh off the most successful season in program history — which included shattered records and a first-ever playoff berth — they find themselves in a rebuilding stage with seven returners from last season.
“You’re lucky to get six or seven core players back from the year before,” said Jerry Stupar, AVC’s head coach and last year’s Coach of the Year.
After a record of 12-7-1 his first year, he followed up with a 16-3 record. “We’ve had two years with quality numbers,” he said. “Last year we went 16-3, that’s very difficult to do.”
Stupar finds himself in a very familiar situation. After losing 11 prominent sophomores, he has a predominantly freshman team.
In his first year — with no recruiting whatsoever — his mostly freshman team stunned the league. From an early look, he’s certainly satisfied.
“We have potential to be close as strong on the defense, maybe not as strong, but an opportunity to be more offensive minded,” he said, comparing last year’s team to this year’s possible team.
After last season’s success and some hand-picked recruiting, who knows what kind of team Stupar will conduct for this upcoming season.
Spring Sprouts
There is a significant difference between last year's and this year’s spring training. “The number of returning players versus the numbers of bodies,” Stupar said referring to the large number of newcomers participating training.
Why now?
The noise the Marauder soccer team made last year definitely gained them some recognition and respect and has attracted some local talent. AVC has possibly become the designated favorite over colleges, such as Taft College and College of the Canyons.
A major change has come from seniors that are freshman. In other words, high school seniors who are due to graduate by the time AVC's spring semester is over and will be official AVC freshman for fall are participating in the collegiate-level spring training.
And they are loaded with phenomenal talent. “We have a very strong incoming freshman class,” Stupar said.
- Beatrice Giles, a current senior at Lancaster High School, dribbles the ball during a drill. A solid forward, she is what the Marauders significantly lacked all last season.
This year coach Stupar has invited some of last year’s sophomores to come and join the training sessions. Such names include last year’s Runner-Up Player of the Year Shannon Cox, First Team All-Conference defensive stars Chelsea Porter and Thannia Huerta, Honorable Mention midfielder Lauren “Mississippi” Miszklevitz, Adri Ruiz and Valerie Arciga.
A key attribute that was missed from the team all last season was the forward position. There are several forwards trying out now and Stupar is vying to keep them. Stupar’s remarkable rotating system kept the Marauders alive.
Certain coaches play a certain way — he plays a system according to the players he has. Quality players and quality people make them coachable.
Players like Denise Perez and Rosana Reyes supported Stupar’s system — both emerging from the bench to successfully fill in roles for the absent starters and making Second Team All-Conference.
Attempt to fill Void
Among the returners are: Breanna Dundes, Danielle Skidmore, Rosana Reyes, Rebecca Milian, Vanessa Guzzetti, Julia Celebron and red-shirting sophomore Monica Parra.
Perhaps the most uncertainty lies in front of the net. The best goalie in conference last year, Thannia Huerta, has protégés Breanna Dundes and Danielle Skidmore to presumably pick up where she left off.
But there is a third counterpart who is eager to play — Adriana Aguilar. Her academic scholarship at Fresno State University entitled her to perform strictly toward academics. So she came to AVC just to play soccer.
- Adriana Aguilar is hungry for the starting goalkeeper spot. Here she is in a practice drill.
Others striving for starting positions are Rosana Reyes and Rebecca Milian. Last year during a shortage in the roster, Reyes rose to the occasion and delivered solid performances. Rebecca Milian was the only roster player to be rotated in last season’s playoff game and was voted Most Improved by the team — this has propelled her to work harder for a starting spot.
Vanessa Guzzetti, Julia Celebron and Monica Parra are very unfamiliar to the turf. Seeing little or no playing time last year, spring training is the perfect opprotunity for them to be aggressive.
“This is what spring is for,” Parra said. Another uncertainty is defense. A survival tool for last year’s team, Stupar reminds everyone that it should not be a concern.
“Defense has always been my philosophy,” Stupar said. “I already have some quality players that are in the program. We have the potential to be strong in the back.”
Where and When?
Team training is held on the soccer field (grass) Mondays and Wednesdays from 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. On Tuesdays and Thursdays they are removed from the divots of the natural grass and hold their session at Marauder Stadium (FieldTurf), same times as Mondays and Wednesdays.
After hitting the field be prepared for an hour of hitting the weights in the gym everyday after training, Room 120. The times and days for spring training go on until the last school day for spring — when the summer term begins, June 14, the new times are 7:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.
“Be prepared to train Monday through Thursday in the mornings,” Stupar said.
Also, anyone who wants to try out for the team should enroll in the one unit summer class ‘Advanced Soccer Techniques’ which just so happens to be instructed by Stupar. “Anyone who wants to try out for the team should enroll in the class,” he said.
No one should be discouraged from attending the fun, competitive nature that Stupar encourages.
- Photos and story by Donjai Richardson
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