Stories for February 17, 2011

Falling rock kills Medford man working on trail

HILLSBORO, Ore. (AP) -- The Washington County sheriff's office says a Medford man was killed by a falling rock while working on a trail near the Gales Creek Campground in the Coast Range west of Portland.

NFL, union hold 1st session with federal mediator

WASHINGTON (AP) -- The NFL and its players' union has met for about six hours with a federal mediator.

NFL commissioner, union head arrive for talks

WASHINGTON (AP) -- NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell and union head DeMaurice Smith have arrived for the first negotiating session involving a federal mediator.

NFL commissioner arrives for mediation session

WASHINGTON (AP) -- NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell has arrived for the first negotiating session between the league and its players' union involving a federal mediator.

1 killed in I-84 crash near Huntington

HUNTINGTON, Ore. (AP) -- Oregon State Police say one person has been killed in a three-vehicle crash on Interstate 84 west of Huntington, near the Idaho border.

Former Rams guard Terrell charged in Texas attack

GALVESTON, Texas (AP) -- Former St. Louis Rams guard Claude Terrell (teh-REHL') has been charged with aggravated kidnapping, aggravated sexual assault and burglary charges in connection with an alleged Valentine's Day attack in Texas.

Georgia hires Kirk Olivadotti from Redskins

ATHENS, Ga. (AP) -- Longtime Washington Redskins assistant Kirk Olivadotti is Georgia's new inside linebackers coach.

Germany optimistic on G-20 deal

PARIS (AP) -- Germany's finance minister says he believes the world's dominant economies will reach a deal on how to track dangerous imbalances in the global economy, as the Group of 20 rich and developing nations' work to prevent another financial crisis.

Girl wrestler eliminated after 2 tourny losses

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) -- An Iowa high school wrestler who became the first girl to win a state tournament match when her opponent refused to compete against her has been eliminated from the tournament.

Iowa girl wrestler loses in quarterfinals

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) -- An Iowa high school wrestler who became the first girl ever to win a state tournament match when her opponent refused to compete against her has lost her next match.

Leyland: Cabrera's situation won't be a disruption

LAKELAND, Fla. (AP) -- The Detroit Tigers are back on the field, one day after the team was stunned by the news of slugger Miguel Cabrera's arrest on suspicion of drunken driving.

Title time as arrived

Find out where and when local athletes will compete at state championship events.

Ecclestone hopeful Bahrain protest 'blows away'

LONDON (AP) -- Formula One boss Bernie Ecclestone is hoping deadly anti-government protests will cease so the season-opening Bahrain Grand Prix can go ahead as scheduled.

Value of volunteers lauded at State of the County event

As budget was cut, many stepped up to help others during recession

At the 2011 State of the County event Thursday night, about 500 people heard the focus turn from the almighty dollar to heartfelt thanks to the hundreds — citizen volunteers working with public officials — who found ways to help folks get by in the grinding recession. “The recession and sluggish economy of the past three years have meant doing many things differently, and this event is no different,” Commissioner Tom Mielke told the crowd at Skyview High School. “We need to find more and better ways to work with what we have.”

Ellensburg baby who fell in cleaning bucket dies

ELLENSBURG, Wash. (AP) -- An Ellensburg baby who fell into a bucket of cleaning fluid at her home died at a hospital in Seattle.

Outlook man given life sentence for killing teen

YAKIMA, Wash. (AP) -- A 23-year-old man was sentenced Thursday in Yakima to life in prison without release for killing a 14-year-old girl.

Fatal Yakima police shooting ruled to be justified

YAKIMA, Wash. (AP) -- The Yakima County prosecutor says a Yakima police officer was justified in fatally shooting a man who stabbed another man 159 times with a pocketknife.

Fatal Yakima police shooting ruled to be justified

YAKIMA, Wash. (AP) -- Yakima County Prosecuting Attorney Jim Hagarty says a Yakima police officer was justified in fatally shooting a man who was stabbing another man.

Fiesta Bowl tells IRS it plans contribution audit

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. (AP) -- The Fiesta Bowl has told the Internal Revenue Service it is reviewing political campaign contributions and whether key bowl officials received excessive benefits.

Teodosic edges Gasol for Europe's top player award

GENEVA (AP) -- Serbia guard Milos Teodosic has edged Spain's Pau Gasol to win Europe's 2010 best basketball player award.

It's official: Guerrero signs with Orioles

SARASOTA, Fla. (AP) -- Vladimir Guerrero has signed an $8 million, 1-year contract with the Baltimore Orioles.

Wrong-way driver killed in I5 Marysville crash

MARYSVILLE, Wash. (AP) -- A wrong-way driver was killed and two other drivers injured in a collision on Interstate 5 at Marysville that blocked the southbound lanes Friday morning for four hours.

Wrong-way driver blamed for I5 Marysville crash

MARYSVILLE, Wash. (AP) -- A wrong-way driver is suspected of causing a fatal crash on Interstate 5 at Marysville.

Ted Ligety wins giant slalom world title

GARMISCH-PARTENKIRCHEN, Germany (AP) -- Ted Ligety gave the United States its first gold medal of the world championships when he won the giant slalom title Friday.

Furlough gives Washington employees 4-day weekend

OLYMPIA, Wash. (AP) -- The Tuesday after the Presidents Day holiday is another furlough day for most Washington state employees.

Wash. inmate pleads guilty to 49th murder

SEATTLE (AP) -- One of the nation's most prolific killers has pleaded guilty in Washington state to killing a 49th person.

Man plans to plead guilty in Wash. to 49th killing

SEATTLE (AP) -- One of the nation's most prolific killers plans to plead guilty Friday in Washington state to killing a 49th person.

Arraignment in Kent in 49th Green River killing

SEATTLE (AP) -- Already serving 48 life terms in the Green River killings, Gary Ridgway is expected to plead guilty to a 49th murder at his arraignment Friday at the King County Regional Justice Center in Kent.

I-5 bridge controversy normal, expert tells public

He says leadership key to making such huge projects reality

PORTLAND — The chairman of a panel advising Washington and Oregon transportation leaders briefed the public Thursday on the group’s recommendation for a new Interstate 5 bridge across the Columbia River. In doing so, Utah-based transportation consultant Tom Warne waded into the controversy that continues to swirl around the multibillion-dollar proposal.

Barcelona ready to host Bahrain's F1 test

BARCELONA, Spain (AP) -- Barcelona's Catalunya Circuit is ready to serve as a substitute venue for Formula One's final test session of the season if Bahrain is unable to host because of anti-government unrest.

NW gets new regional forester

PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) -- The U.S. Forest Service has named a new regional forester for the Northwest

NW gests new regional forester

PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) -- The U.S. Forest Service has named a new regional forester for the Northwest

Woman rescued from Seattle apartment fire

SEATTLE (AP) -- Firefighters used a ladder truck to rescue a woman from a second floor window of a burning apartment building in Seattle.

Woman rescued from Seattle apartment fire

SEATTLE (AP) -- Firefighters used a ladder truck to rescue a woman from a second floor window of a burning apartment building in Seattle.

Dow notches third straight week of gains

NEW YORK (AP) -- The Dow Jones industrial average is ending the day higher, marking its third straight week of gains.

Stocks on path for third straight week of gains

NEW YORK (AP) -- Stocks are rising in midday trading ahead of the long holiday weekend, pointing to a third straight week of gains.

Stocks little changed in early going

NEW YORK (AP) -- Stocks are little changed in early trading on a day with little expected in the way of economic reports or corporate earnings announcements.

Obama to tout education spending on Portland-area trip

It’s taken President Barack Obama just four months to get back to Oregon, where he’s been a successful campaigner. This time around, the president is stumping for his education budget. He plans a three-hour stop Friday to tour Intel’s campus in the Portland suburb of Hillsboro and check out the company’s education initiatives to encourage young people to become high-tech scientists and engineers.

Obama highlights Intel's Hillsboro operations

HILLSBORO, Ore. (AP) -- President Barack Obama says Intel's Oregon operations should be a role model for other companies.

Obama in Oregon Friday for 3-hour Hillsboro swing

HILLSBORO, Ore. (AP) -- Oregon's governor says President Barack Obama's visit to a Portland suburb is "just what we need right now."

Wozniacki reclaims No. 1 ranking with Dubai win

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) -- Caroline Wozniacki has regained the No. 1 ranking after beating Shahar Peer of Israel 6-2, 6-4 to reach the semifinals of the Dubai Championships on Friday.

Woodland port schedules boat ramp meeting

Commissioners plan workshop to get more comment on possible launching facility

London 2012 adds to closing ceremony team

LONDON (AP) -- A creative influence behind Lady Gaga's Monster Ball tour and the man who composes the music for the James Bond movies have joined the team in charge of the closing ceremony for the 2012 London Olympics.

Kim shoots 1 over but still leads LPGA Thailand

PATTAYA, Thailand (AP) -- In-kyung Kim of South Korea birdied her final hole to card a 1-over 73 and hold onto the lead by a stroke over Michelle Wie and Yani Tseng midway through the LPGA Thailand on Friday.

Putin: Sochi has among world's best ski slopes

SOCHI, Russia (AP) -- Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin says the ski slopes for the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi are as good as those in the Alps.

$2 million theft ring busted in Portland, much sold on Internet

Vehicles stolen, bogus credit cards made, police say

This was the culmination of an eight month long investigation into one of the largest burglary, identity theft, and stolen property fencing operations in recent history.

Spanish police arrest 7 in sports doping raid

MADRID (AP) -- Spanish police say they have broken up a doping ring that distributed steroids and blood boosters to amateur athletes, cyclists and body builders.

Rights group estimates 84 killed in Libya protests

CAIRO (AP) -- A New York-based human rights organization estimates that 84 people have died after three days of anti-government protests in Libya.

Judge in Loughner case to mull release of records

SAN DIEGO (AP) -- A judge overseeing the case against the suspect in the Tucson, Ariz., shootings is hearing aguments over whether to release a new mug shot of the suspect and unseal records of a police search of his house.

Obama calls for investments in education, r&d

HILLSBORO, Ore. (AP) -- President Barack Obama says the U.S. must invest in research and development, science, and especially education -- or risk seeing the technological breakthroughs of the future happen in some other country.

Obama calls for investments in education, r&d

HILLSBORO, Ore. (AP) -- President Barack Obama says the U.S. must invest in research and development, science, and especially education -- or risk seeing the technological breakthroughs of the future happen in some other country.

Intel chief to join White House council on jobs

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) -- A White House official says President Barack Obama will name Intel Corp. CEO Paul Otellini to the president's advisory council on jobs and competitiveness. Otellini has criticized Obama's economic policies.

Hunt for jobs ideas takes Obama to West Coast

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) -- President Barack Obama's hunt for innovative ideas to spur job creation has led him to the West Coast to brainstorm with some of the brightest technological minds in the country.

House slogs through $1.2 trillion spending bill

WASHINGTON (AP) -- A battle-weary House is turning its focus to social issues and an assault on the Obama administration's regulatory agenda as it slogs toward concluding debate on a big Republican spending bill that would impose sweeping cuts on domestic programs.

Egypt: Victory march planned to mark Mubarak fall

CAIRO (AP) -- Egyptians by the thousands gathered for prayers Friday and a planned victory march through Tahrir Square to mark the fall of longtime leader Hosni Mubarak a week ago.

Wis. gov calls on Dems who fled state to return

MADISON, Wis. (AP) -- Wisconsin's Gov. Scott Walker has called on Democrats who fled the state to block a vote on an anti-union bill to "come home."

Senator: Wis. Dems to stay away for days, weeks

CHICAGO (AP) -- Democrats who fled Wisconsin to block a vote on a sweeping anti-union bill could stay in hiding for days or even weeks.

Senator: Wis. Dems to stay away for days, weeks

CHICAGO (AP) -- Democrats who fled Wisconsin to block a vote on a sweeping anti-union bill could stay in hiding for days or even weeks.

Demonstrators block bridge in south Iraqi city

BASRA, Iraq (AP) -- Protesters blocking a bridge in the southern Iraqi city of Basra are calling for the provincial governor to resign, as the drumbeat of demonstrations railing against the government continues across Iraq.

State furlough day Tuesday

Washington State will have another furlough day Tuesday, with many state agencies closed for business.

Disaster declaration issued for 6 Oregon counties

PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) -- President Obama has issued a federal disaster declaration for six Oregon counties to help them recover from winter storm damage.

Vancouver police continue focus on downtown intersection

Vancouver police netted 16 drivers on the second day of a concerted effort to cite drivers who ignore a sign posted adjacent the traffic signal on westbound Sixth Street that prohibits left turns from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. onto Washington Street. On Wednesday, 30 drivers received $124 tickets for ignoring the more than 1-year-old sign, which was installed after conversations between police, city and neighborhood officials led to the decision it would make the intersection safer for pedestrians.

Takahashi leads after men's skating short program

TAIPEI, Taiwan (AP) -- World champion Daisuke Takahashi of Japan surged to a commanding lead after the men's short program at the Four Continents figure skating championships Friday.

Lawsuits filed against Jesuits in Bankruptcy Court

PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) -- Attorneys for a group of people who allege sexual abuse by Jesuit priests have filed 37 lawsuits in U.S. Bankruptcy Court in Portland, seeking about $3.1 million.

Defense argues Kerrigan too drunk to talk to cops

WOBURN, Mass. (AP) -- Prosecutors have urged a judge to throw out statements made to police by the brother of Olympic skater Nancy Kerrigan, including his alleged admission that he grabbed his father around the neck before he died.

Psychiatrist: Kerrigan too drunk to talk to cops

WOBURN, Mass. (AP) -- A Massachusetts psychiatrist says the brother of Olympic skater Nancy Kerrigan was "profoundly impaired" after drinking heavily and could not have knowingly waived his rights when making statements to police after his father died.

Detective: Nancy Kerrigan's brother wanted to talk

WOBURN, Mass. (AP) -- A Massachusetts police detective says the brother of Olympic skater Nancy Kerrigan told officers he wanted to talk with them the night his father died after a fight between the two men.

Attys: Kerrigan brother too drunk to waive rights

WOBURN, Mass. (AP) -- A Massachusetts judge is taking more evidence on a request by lawyers for skater Nancy Kerrigan's brother to throw out statements he made to police the night their father died.

Lawyers: Kerrigan was too drunk to waive rights

WOBURN, Mass. (AP) -- A Massachusetts judge is taking more evidence on a request by lawyers for skater Nancy Kerrigan's brother to throw out statements he made to police the night their father died.

Pakistan judge orders arrest of US car's driver

LAHORE, Pakistan (AP) -- A lawyer says a top Pakistani judge has ordered the arrest of the driver of a U.S. vehicle that struck and killed a Pakistani as it rushed to help an American detained in a pair of fatal shootings.

Sergas retains lead in NZ Women's Open

CHRISTCHURCH, New Zealand (AP) -- Giulia Sergas of Italy shot a 3-under-par 69 to take a two-stroke lead after Friday's second round of the New Zealand Women's Open golf tournament.

Jones' 22 points guide USC past California 78-75

BERKELEY, Calif. (AP) -- Maurice Jones scored 22 points, all in the second half after being coming off the bench for the first time this season, and Southern California beat California 78-75 on Thursday night.

Coast Guard vows to dismantle, remove languishing barge

The U.S. Coast Guard today announced that it will step in to dismantle and remove the beached and broken barge Davy Crockett, now languishing on the north bank of the Columbia River between Vancouver and Camas. Gov. Chris Gregoire said she was pleased by the Coast Guard’s announcement.

Proposed Portland bike path could be tuneful

PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) -- Portland's transit agency is considering a unique art installation for the planned Portland-Milwaukie Light Rail bridge over the Willamette River.

Sharks return home to beat Capitals 3-2

SAN JOSE, Calif. (AP) -- Ryane Clowe and Dany Heatley scored third-period goals to help the San Jose Sharks beat Washington 3-2 Thursday night for their 14th win in their last 15 meetings with the Capitals.

UCLA tops Stanford 69-65 for 6th straight win

STANFORD, Calif. (AP) -- Reeves Nelson had 18 points and seven rounds, Tyler Honeycutt scored 16 points and UCLA beat Stanford 69-65 on Thursday night to tie a season high with its sixth straight victory.

Portland-area police raid 7 places in theft probe

PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) -- Police in the Portland area have served warrants at seven locations as part of an investigation into what officers say is one of the area's largest theft operations in recent history.

5 people killed in Colo. multi-vehicle crash

THORNTON, Colo. (AP) -- Police are trying to determine what caused a three-vehicle crash that killed five people in suburban Denver and sent four others to the hospital.

Hemsky scores twice, Oilers beat Canadiens 4-1

EDMONTON, Alberta (AP) -- Ales Hemsky scored twice and the Edmonton Oilers defeated the Montreal Canadiens 4-1 on Thursday night.

State: Worker deaths up last year in Washington

TUMWATER, Wash. (AP) -- Washington's Department of Labor & Industries says the number of workplace deaths in the state climbed in 2010, with 86 men and women dying from job-related injuries.

NAIA Olivet Nazarene stops Chicago State 81-76

CHICAGO (AP) -- Antonio Marshall scored 25 points Thursday night to lead Olivet Nazarene to an 81-76 victory over Chicago State.

Hanzal nets winner, Coyotes win 6th straight

GLENDALE, Ariz. (AP) -- Martin Hanzal scored the go-ahead goal late in the second period, Keith Yandle had three assists and the Phoenix Coyotes beat the Atlanta Thrashers 4-3 on Thursday night for their sixth straight victory.

Skull found on Whidbey Island beach

CLINTON, Wash. (AP) -- The Island County sheriff's office says a skull found on a Whidbey Island beach may be from a homicide victim.

Firefighters knock down electrical fire at Cascade Park duplex

At least three people were displaced from two duplex units in Cascade Park after an electrical fire broke out and the blaze swept through a crawl space near the rear of the adjoined residences.

Balanced Utah Valley defeats South Dakota 94-79

OREM, Utah (AP) -- Ben Aird scored 18 points and led six Utah Valley players in double figures in a 94-79 victory over South Dakota on Thursday night.

Denver defeats Louisiana-Monroe 65-37

DENVER (AP) -- Brian Stafford scored 14 points to lead Denver to a 65-37 victory over Louisiana-Monroe on Thursday night.

Canadian Raonic advances to 2nd straight semifinal

MEMPHIS, Tenn. (AP) -- Canadian Milos Raonic advanced to his second straight semifinals with a 6-4, 3-6, 6-3 victory over Robert Kendrick on Friday of the Regions Morgan Keegan Championships.

Roddick, Querrey advance in Memphis

MEMPHIS, Tenn. (AP) -- Top-seed Andy Roddick and defending champion Sam Querrey advanced Thursday to the quarterfinals at the Regions Morgan Keegan Championships with straight set victories.

Washington defeats Arizona State 79-62

TEMPE, Ariz. (AP) -- Matthew Bryan-Amaning had 22 points and 12 rebounds to lead Washington to a 79-62 victory against Arizona State on Thursday night.

Williams, Wildcats hold off WSU 79-70

TUCSON, Ariz. (AP) -- Derrick Williams had 26 points and eight rebounds, and No. 12 Arizona withstood a big night from Klay Thompson to hold off Washington State 79-70 Thursday night.

Fisher scores, Predators beat ailing Canucks 3-1

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) -- Nick Spaling and Mike Fisher scored 49 seconds apart in the second period, and the Nashville Predators beat the Vancouver Canucks 3-1 Thursday night for their third victory in four games.

Oregon trooper injured when tree falls on car

GRANTS PASS, Ore. (AP) -- Oregon State Police say a trooper received minor injuries when a snow-laden tree fell on his patrol car Thursday morning.

Rose leads Bulls past Spurs 109-99

CHICAGO (AP) -- Derrick Rose had a career-high 42 points and the Chicago Bulls headed into the All-Star break with an impressive 109-99 victory over the NBA-leading San Antonio Spurs on Thursday night.

Bahrain security forces fire tear gas on protest

MANAMA, Bahrain (AP) -- Security forces have fired tear gas on thousands of protest marchers in Bahrain's capital after angry calls to topple the Gulf nation's monarchy.

Bahrain mourners call for toppling of monarchy

MANAMA, Bahrain (AP) -- Funeral mourners are chanting against Bahrain's rulers as they bury dead from a crushing assault on pro-reform protesters that has brought army tanks into the streets of the tiny Gulf nation.

Campbell holds off Stetson 64-61

DELAND, Fla. (AP) -- Preston Dodson scored 16 points and grabbed 10 rebounds to lead Campbell to a 64-61 win over Stetson on Thursday night, sweeping the season series.

UMKC outlasts Western Illinois 66-61

MACOMB, Ill. (AP) -- Jay Couisnard scored 31 points and UMKC defeated Western Illinois 66-61 Thursday night.

Datsyuk scores 2, Red Wings beat Lightning 6-2

TAMPA, Fla. (AP) -- Pavel Datsyuk scored twice, Danny Cleary had a goal and two assists and the Detroit Red Wings beat the Tampa Bay Lightning 6-2 on Thursday night.

Portland authorities arrest serial arsonist

On February 16, 2011, Portland Fire & Rescue responded to four suspicious car fires in the area of NE 148th between NE Glisan and NE Sacramento Streets. This is in addition to two other car fires that were reported over the past few days for a total of six car fires.

Bruins snap 3-game skid with 6-3 win over Isles

UNIONDALE, N.Y. (AP) -- Tuukka Rask stopped 34 shots and six Bruins scored as Boston snapped a three-game losing streak with a 6-3 victory against the New York Islanders on Thursday night.

Jerry West statue unveiled outside Staples Center

LOS ANGELES (AP) -- Jerry West has been immortalized in a bronze statue outside Staples Center, joining likenesses of fellow Los Angeles Lakers greats Magic Johnson and Chick Hearn in Star Plaza.

Rangers outlast Kings for 4-3 shootout win

NEW YORK (AP) -- Henrik Lundqvist knocked Anze Kopitar's shootout shot over the net to earn his 200th NHL win and give the Rangers a 4-3 victory over the Los Angeles Kings on Thursday night.

Coastal Carolina defeats NC Central 94-59

CONWAY, S.C. (AP) -- Chad Gray scored 25 points and Dexter Moore added 22 to lead Coastal Carolina to a 94-59 victory over North Carolina Central on Thursday night.

Long Island University outlasts Wagner 83-79 in OT

NEW YORK (AP) -- Kyle Johnson scored six of his 17 points in overtime, including the go-ahead layup and four clinching free throws, as Long Island University outlasted Wagner 83-79 Thursday night.

Southern Utah surprises IUPUI 80-68

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) -- Jake Nielson scored 15 points to lead five Southern Utah players in double figures and the Thunderbirds came back to beat IUPUI 80-68 on Thursday night.

Oakland, Mich., tops N. Dakota St. 71-69 for title

ROCHESTER, Mich. (AP) -- Keith Benson scored 22 points Thursday night to lead Oakland, Mich., to a 71-69 victory over North Dakota State and its second straight Summit League championship.

Quinnipiac blows out Bryant 80-60

SMITHFIELD, R.I. (AP) -- James Johnson scored 24 points on seven 3-pointers and Justin Rutty added 16 points and 10 rebounds to lead Quinnipiac over Bryant 80-60 on Thursday night.

Western Carolina defeats Appalachian State 80-75

BOONE, N.C. (AP) -- Brandon Boggs, Mike Williams and Richie Gordon combined for 59 points as Western Carolina defeated Appalachian State 80-75 Thursday night.

Penn State holds off Minnesota 66-63

STATE COLLEGE, Pa. (AP) -- Talor Battle scored 28 points and hit a 3-pointer in a late 8-0 run that propelled Penn State to a 66-63 win over Minnesota on Thursday night.

No. 16 Maryland beats No. 7 Duke 69-47

COLLEGE PARK, Md. (AP) -- Lynetta Kizer scored 17 points, and No. 16 Maryland beat No. 7 Duke 69-47 Thursday night to drop the Blue Devils into a three-way tie for first place in the Atlantic Coast Conference.

No. 15 Florida State hangs on to beat Wake 82-79

WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. (AP) -- Cierra Bravard had 21 points and 15 rebounds, and No. 15 Florida State held on to beat Wake Forest 82-79 on Thursday night.

South Dakota State beats IPFW 80-64

FORT WAYNE, Ind. (AP) -- Nate Wolters scored 30 points Thursday night, leading South Dakota State to an 80-64 victory at IPFW.

Robert Morris defeats Fairleigh Dickinson 74-50

HACKENSACK, N.J. (AP) -- Lijah Thompson scored 16 points and Karon Abraham added 12 to lead Robert Morris over Fairleigh Dickinson 74-50 on Thursday night.

Savannah State rolls past Trinity Baptist 84-24

SAVANNAH, Ga. (AP) -- Jovonni Shuler scored 18 points as Savannah State rolled past Trinity Baptist 84-24 on Thursday night.

Georgia cruises to 69-51 win over No. 19 Kentucky

ATHENS, Ga. (AP) -- Meredith Mitchell scored 16 points and Georgia rolled past No. 19 Kentucky 69-51 on Thursday night to remain in second place in the Southeastern Conference.

College of Charleston downs The Citadel 85-63

CHARLESTON, S.C. (AP) -- Willis Hall scored 21 points, leading five College of Charleston players in double figures as the Cougars routed The Citadel 85-63 on Thursday night.

Michigan State beats Northwestern 74-60

EAST LANSING, Mich. (AP) -- Lykendra Johnson had 19 points and Kalisha Keane scored 17, helping No. 11 Michigan State pull away to beat Northwestern 74-60 Thursday night.

Cent. Connecticut St. holds off Sacred Heart 57-56

NEW BRITAIN, Conn. (AP) -- Ken Horton scored 14 of his 18 points in the second half and had a critical steal to help Central Connecticut State hold off Sacred Heart 57-56 Thursday night, sweeping the season series.

No. 4 Tennessee beats South Carolina 82-60

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (AP) -- Reserve Alicia Manning scored a career-high 22 points and No. 4 Tennessee beat South Carolina 82-60 on Thursday night, extending its winning streak in the series to 40 straight.

NC State beats Clemson 69-61

RALEIGH, N.C. (AP) -- Freshman C.J. Leslie had 18 points and 10 rebounds to help North Carolina State beat Clemson 69-61 on Thursday night.

Ohio State cruises past No. 23 Penn State, 89-67

COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) -- Jantel Lavender had 23 points and 11 rebounds, Samantha Prahalis added 21 points and 11 assists, and Ohio State beat No. 23 Penn State 89-67 on Thursday night.

Body found in marsh along Andresen still not identified

Vancouver police and Clark County medical examiners are working closely to determine what killed a man whose body was found Tuesday afternoon in a marsh in the 3500 block of Northeast Andresen Road, between Fourth Plain Road and state Highway 500.

No. 13 Miami pulls away to top Boston College

BOSTON (AP) -- Riquna Williams scored 23 of her 25 points in the second half to lead No. 13 Miami to a 90-80 win over Boston College on Thursday night.

St. Francis (Pa.) defeats Monmouth (NJ) 57-51

LONG BRANCH, N.J. (AP) -- Jesse Steele scored 20 points and Monmouth (N.J.) used two second-half spurts to pull away from St. Francis (Pa.) 57-51 on Thursday night, splitting the season series.

No. 23 Temple tops Richmond 73-53

PHILADELPHIA (AP) -- Ramone Moore scored 24 points, Juan Fernandez had 20 and No. 23 Temple used a 16-0 run to batter Richmond 73-53 on Thursday night.

Rose and Wall voted into Skills Challenge

NEW YORK (AP) -- Stephen Curry of Golden State, Derrick Rose of Chicago, John Wall of Washington and Russell Westbrook of Oklahoma City were selected in fan voting to compete against New Orleans point guard Chris Paul in the NBA Skills Challenge on Saturday.

Watson pulls out with stomach muscle injury

LOS ANGELES (AP) -- Bubba Watson has withdrawn from the Northern Trust Open with a strained stomach muscle.

Battle Ground man pleads guilty in 2009 fatal fight

Details of confrontation remain unclear

A Battle Ground man pleaded guilty this morning to second-degree manslaughter in the 2009 beating death of Curtis Dunn.

Nets owner has not changed his mind on Anthony

NEWARK, N.J. (AP) -- New Jersey Nets owner Mikhail Prokhorov has not changed his mind about the franchise's pursuit of Carmelo Anthony.

Investment firm buys majority stake in Haggen Inc.

BELLINGHAM, Wash. (AP) -- Private investment firm Comvest Group is buying a majority share of Bellingham-based Haggen Inc., which operates 30 supermarkets in Washington and Oregon.

GK Onstad comes out of retirement for DC United

WASHINGTON (AP) -- D.C. United assistant coach Pat Onstad is coming out of retirement because the club is in need of healthy goalkeepers.

Temple and Notre Dame agree to play

PHILADELPHIA (AP) -- Notre Dame and Temple have agreed to a three-game football series starting in 2014.

WA bill to move legal notices online appears dead

OLYMPIA, Wash. (AP) -- A House committee chairman says a bill that would allow Washington's county governments to stop running legal notices in local newspapers is essentially dead.

Popovich says Duncan will start All-Star game

CHICAGO (AP) -- Spurs coach Gregg Popovich says Tim Duncan will replace Yao Ming in the Western Conference's starting lineup for Sunday's All-Star game in Los Angeles.

GW AD to retire; Yankees president to lead review

WASHINGTON (AP) -- George Washington athletic director Jack Kvancz is retiring this summer.

Dillon wins pole for Trucks Series race

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (AP) -- Austin Dillon has won the pole for the Trucks Series race at Daytona International Speedway, posting a lap of 179.047 mph on Thursday night.

Nine players suspended by MEAC following brawl

NORFOLK, Va. (AP) -- Nine players have been suspended by the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference following a Feb. 14 fight between the women's teams of Maryland-Eastern Shore and Bethune-Cookman.

Coastal Carolina's leading scorer suspended

CONWAY, S.C. (AP) -- Coastal Carolina's leading scorer has been indefinitely suspended from the team for an eligibility issue.

Kershaw bring strong work ethic to spring training

GLENDALE, Ariz. (AP) -- Ask Dodgers manager Don Mattingly about left-hander Clayton Kershaw, and he talks about a work ethic. It is always there. It was there even in Africa.

Oregon gets $48 million for insurance exchange

PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) -- Oregon is getting $48 million to help build the infrastructure for health insurance exchanges that would allow people to get coverage under last year's health care law.

Jury to begin deliberations in Buju Banton trial

TAMPA, Fla. (AP) -- A federal jury in Florida will begin deliberations in the drug trial of Grammy-winning reggae singer Buju Banton.

Pechstein win 5K in "B" race at World Cup in Utah

KEARNS, Utah (AP) -- Five-time Olympic champion Claudia Pechstein of Germany showed she has returned to form after a two-year doping ban, winning the 5,000-meter "B'' race at a speedskating World Cup event on the track where she won two Olympic gold medals.

Richardson set to race 1,500 at Utah Olympic Oval

KEARNS, Utah (AP) -- Former Olympic champion Derek Parra sounded like a concerned father as he cued up the old 8 millimeter videocassettes of then-17-year-old Heather Richardson making the early transition from inline skating.

Blue Jackets put RW Derek Dorsett on IR

COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) -- The Columbus Blue Jackets have placed right wing Derek Dorsett on injured reserve and recalled defenseman John Moore from their AHL affiliate in Springfield, Mass.

Bettman won't debate Lemieux on discipline

TAMPA, Fla. (AP) -- NHL commissioner Gary Bettman says he will not get into a public debate with Mario Lemieux over league discipline.

Congressman tries to cut dam removal study

GRANTS PASS, Ore. (AP) -- A California congressman tried Thursday to block removal of four hydroelectric dams on the Klamath River by eliminating funding for a key study.

Trimmer Ramirez goes to work with Rays

PORT CHARLOTTE, Fla. (AP) -- Manny Ramirez is ahead of schedule in his bid to re-establish himself as one of the most fearsome sluggers in baseball.

Bulldogger wins Santa Anita feature

ARCADIA, Calif. (AP) -- Bulldogger came from off the pace to win the $60,062 feature at Santa Anita by 114 lengths on Thursday.

Artest advocates mental health help in visit to DC

WASHINGTON (AP) -- Ron Artest is speaking out in favor of more mental health services for schools.

Icabad Crane wins Big A's G'Day Mate Stakes

NEW YORK (AP) -- Icabad Crane, the 3-5 favorite, rallied to beat Manteca by 214 lengths Thursday in the $60,000 G'Day Mate Stakes for New York breds at Aqueduct.

Spokane man will be tried for crossbow slaying

SPOKANE, Wash. (AP) -- A Spokane County Superior Court judge has ruled that Cole Strandberg will be tried for murder in the crossbow-shooting death of a young woman.

Man opens fire on girlfriend along Vegas freeway

LAS VEGAS (AP) -- Las Vegas police say a man who opened fire near the exit of a busy freeway before officers shot him was shooting at a female acquaintance in a domestic dispute and was not aiming at passing motorists.

Temple F Eric out for season

PHILADELPHIA (AP) -- Temple forward Micheal Eric is out for the season with a fractured right patella.

Irsay: Manning could get 5-year or 6-year deal

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) -- Colts owner Jim Irsay remains confident he can reach a long-term deal with four-time league MVP Peyton Manning.

Ducks send pick to Senators for LW Jarkko Ruutu

ANAHEIM, Calif. (AP) -- The Anaheim Ducks have acquired left wing Jarkko Ruutu from the Ottawa Senators in exchange for a sixth-round selection in the this year's NHL entry draft.

Larkin, Joyner at Brazilian instructional camp

NEW YORK (AP) -- Instead of looking for the next Maradona, Major League Baseball is seeking the next Manny.

Titans hire Bush as LB coach, McGinnis new title

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) -- The Tennessee Titans have hired former Texans defensive coordinator Frank Bush as their new linebackers coach with Dave McGinnis moving from that job to a new spot as senior assistant coach.

NCAA reverses itself, clears UNC FB Devon Ramsay

CHAPEL HILL, N.C. (AP) -- The NCAA has reversed its ruling that North Carolina's Devon Ramsay is permanently ineligible and has cleared the fullback to return next season.

Baffert names new jockey for The Factor

ARCADIA, Calif. (AP) -- Triple Crown hopeful The Factor is getting a new rider for Sunday's San Vicente Stakes at Santa Anita.

New solar panel plant getting federal help

GRANTS PASS, Ore. (AP) -- The manufacturer of a new generation of rooftop solar panels is getting a $197 million federal loan guarantee to expand a plant being built in Oregon.

Keselowski helps older brother make Daytona 500

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (AP) -- The Busches and Labontes aren't the only brothers in the Daytona 500.

Ore. police arrest Texas fugitive on sex charges

SALEM, Ore. (AP) -- Police in Oregon say they have arrested a fugitive who fled from sexual assault charges in Texas 10 years ago.

Santa Anita gets fall racing dates back

ARCADIA, Calif. (AP) -- The California Horse Racing Board has voted to transfer the fall racing dates back to Santa Anita instead of returning to Hollywood Park.

Snow/rain on tap for Clark County

Today will be a lot like yesterday -- without the surprise.

Obama back in Ore., pushing for education spending

PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) -- It's taken President Barack Obama just four months to get back to Oregon, where he's been a successful campaigner. This time around, the president is stumping for his education budget.

Boise State football coach gets bonus, raise

BOISE, Idaho (AP) -- Boise State coach Chris Petersen has been rewarded after completing another impressive season.

TV reporter speaks about speech problem at Grammys

LOS ANGELES (AP) -- A TV reporter who lapsed into gibberish during a live shot outside the Grammys says she was terrified when it happened and knew something was wrong as soon as she opened her mouth.

Roddick, Isner, Bryans on Courier's 1st DCup team

WHITE PLAINS, N.Y. (AP) -- Andy Roddick will be part of the U.S. Davis Cup team for the first time in two years when it plays at Chile next month.

Halak placed on injured reserve

ST. LOUIS (AP) -- St. Louis Blues goalie Jaroslav Halak was placed on injured reserve with a right hand ailment.

Feliz among 8 who agree to contracts with Texas

SURPRISE, Ariz. (AP) -- The Texas Rangers have agreed to terms on 2011 contracts with record-setting closer Neftali Feliz, outfielder Julio Borbon and six other players.

Ortiz, Crawford report to power-packed camp

FORT MYERS, Fla. (AP) -- David Ortiz, Adrian Gonzalez and Carl Crawford are together at spring training with the Boston Red Sox for the first time.

White Sox hoping Peavy will be healthy

GLENDALE, Ariz. (AP) -- General manager Kenny Williams wanted to see for himself when Jake Peavy went for his physical Thursday, so he stood right next to the team doctors and the one-time Cy Young Award winner in the examining room.

APNewsBreak: Torrealba loses grievance vs Mets

NEW YORK (AP) -- Catcher Yorvit Torrealba has lost his grievance against the New York Mets.

$72 million in bonuses for Alaska Air employees

SEATTLE (AP) -- Alaska Air Group says it's paying $72 million in bonuses this week to nearly all of its 12,600 Alaska Airlines and Horizon Air employees for exceeding the Seattle company's 2010 goals.

Logjam at Riviera leaderboard

LOS ANGELES (AP) -- Ten years after Robert Allenby won a six-man playoff at Riviera, he was part of a nine-way tie for the lead Thursday in the Northern Trust Open.

Six players share early lead at Riviera

LOS ANGELES (AP) -- The Aussies rule at Riviera in the Northern Trust Open.

Mariners watching RHP Pineda's development closely

PEORIA, Ariz. (AP) -- Michael Pineda's spot in the Seattle Mariners starting rotation awaits him. In spring training, the club wants to handle its prized pitching prospect with care and see how he responds to high expectations and hype.

Donations roll in for victims of White Swan fire

WHITE SWAN, Wash. (AP) -- Donations are pouring in from across the region for the victims of a fire that burned 18 homes and left 120 people homeless in a rural section of the Yakama Indian Reservation.

Utley chasing a turnaround season

CLEARWATER, Fla. (AP) -- Chase Utley cemented his reputation for being a hard worker long ago.

Sports show tips: Spring chinook, kokanee, walleye

Here's help from the experts to catch more fish this season

Fishing report 2/17

Bonneville pool closed beginning Saturday for sturgeon retention

Bill aims to make cougar-hunting program permanent

Legislation chips away at statewide initiative banning use of dogs

Filmmaker Stephen Rollin's interested in Thrashers

ATLANTA (AP) -- Los Angeles-based filmmaker and Atlanta native Stephen Rollins says he has well-funded support in his ongoing interest to purchase the Thrashers.

Out & About

Items about a Tarbell trail work party, flyfishing class, hunter education course, bass club meeting and boating safety class

Grove Field improvements considered

Small Camas airport needs longer, wider runway, more

Three miles north of downtown Camas, Grove Field Airport isn’t just a magnet for plane hobbyists. It serves as a base for responding to natural disasters, including forest fires. Local, state and federal governments consider it an “essential public facility.” And it contributes roughly $1.58 million in sales annually to the economy.

County’s homes-for-sale inventory rises in January

The inventory of Clark County homes listed for sale through the region’s multiple listing service in January increased to an 11.7-month supply, up from 9.1 months in December, but down from 12.4 months worth of inventory in the same month last year.

Talking Points 2/17

What's the buzz from the world of sports? Here are some items that will have people talking:

Carlson named to clean water advisory group

RIDGEFIELD — Clark County commissioners this week voted to appoint Ridgefield resident James N. Carlson to the county’s clean water advisory group.

Free screenings assess childhood development

Camas/Washougal/Woodland — Area school districts are offering developmental screenings for children in their districts.

Death notices

A daily list of death notices

Nod goes to Aldridge for Blazers’ victory

Forward scores 34 points to lead Portland

LaMarcus Aldridge scored 34 points and the Portland Trail Blazers rallied in the fourth quarter to beat the New Orleans Hornets 103-96 Wednesday night for their season-high sixth straight victory.

Vital statistics

Births, Marriage dissolution, Court sentencings

Olbrich pulls double duty for Linfield College

Top tennis player also running point for basketball team

Intercollegiate sports are exhausting and time-consuming, placing significant demands on student-athletes. And that’s for those who compete in one sport.

High School Scoreboard 2/17

Thursday's high school

Prep roundup: Camas, Mountain View boys advance in the 3A bi-district

Friend sparks Papermakers off bench

Kyle Friend came off the bench to provide a spark in the third quarter and Addison Owen’s defensive presense helped the Camas boys basketball team to a 63-51 win over Kennedy of Burien in the first round of the Class 3A Bi-District Tournament in Lakewood. The Papermakers took a 28-26 lead at halftime after finishing the second quarter with an 11-1 run.

College Notebook: Chico State’s Evans up for D-II baseball national honor

Chico State senior second baseman Jackson Evans was named the school’s Wildcat of the Week for his performance ina season-opening doubleheader sweep of Simpson University on Saturday. The Hudson’s Bay High School graduate had seven RBI, scored four runs and had a double and a triple in the two games, and stole a base.

In Our View: Mega-Fixer-Upper

Saving the barracks hospital is daunting task, but local arts community might pull it off

The irony is inescapable. One of Vancouver’s most visible buildings — and one that provided vital health care for countless patients — now sits empty and unused. If you’re a longtime local resident, you probably remember how the Vancouver Barracks hospital presented the best hope for the injured and the ill until it closed in the mid-1990s. If you’re a relative newcomer, the old hospital might have been the first big building you noticed as you drove into the downtown area. Perched on the eastern precipice of the Interstate 5 gulch, the three-story, red-brick building is hard to miss.

Our Readers' Views

Letters to the editor

The Weather Eye: More flakes may be on the way

For those of you that witnessed the very large snowflakes early Wednesday, it may have been quite a surprise. The snow itself wasn’t a surprise, as I mentioned here the other day we could see snowflakes down to city levels. Many readers commented to me that they were chicken-feather-size flakes. I say, how about goose or maybe ostrich size, ha-ha? Very large snowflakes two- to three-inches across are not that uncommon, especially when we have a warm layer of air above the surface. The snowflakes are very wet and begin to melt and then stick together in the lower atmosphere upon their descent. They can occur during a heavy shower, with very cold air aloft that drives down the snow level. I have seen snowflakes that large before at 40 degrees.

Most don’t dig the fact that moles are underground marvels

Critters are mightier than a machine, they’re nature’s soil tillers

Dew sparkles on acres of lush lawn, velvety smooth and green. Except, of course, where molehills pock the perfection. The telltale mark of just about any lawn in Washington’s Puget Sound, these are mountainous molehills indeed, the workings of Scapanus townsendii, or Townsend’s mole, the largest in North America, or Scapanus orarius, the Pacific mole, just a bit smaller.

Energy Adviser: Beware dangers that carbon monoxide poses

Every time a wind or ice storm knocks down trees and breaks power lines, utility crews work hard to get the electricity flowing back to customers. This doesn’t happen often, but when it does, it can take quite a while before utility crews can restore power to everyone. That can be a concern.

The Garden Life: Rejuvenate lawn, garden during cold months

It is rare that we lose a hardy garden plant because of the severity of the season. Our climate allows us a wider range of planting options than most of the world. Even when we do get snow, it comes and goes quickly, revealing lush green lawns the moment the snow melts away, while much of the U.S. stays frozen for the better part of winter. Our lawns go through a period of rest and recuperation in winter. If you use a slow-release fertilizer in autumn, it will be enough to sustain your grass lawns until spring growth begins. The ideal organic product will have an effect on the soil, which is the key to healthy plants of any kind. Avoid walking on the lawn as much as possible during winter months, especially if frozen or covered in frost. Rake up winter yard debris on mild, dry days.

Gardening Calendar

A weekly list of garden classes and events

Traffic operation nets 30 citations

Downtown drivers making illegal left turn targeted

Vancouver police cracked down Wednesday morning on an oft-ignored sign posted adjacent the traffic signal on westbound Sixth Street at Washington Street. Members of the department’s traffic unit handed out 30 citations to drivers making left turns prohibited from 7 to 9 a.m. weekdays to ensure safety for Smith Tower residents crossing the street during heavy morning traffic.

'3bler' on verge of setting Big Ten 3-point mark

COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) -- Sometime during Sunday's big game at No. 11 Purdue, Ohio State shooting guard Jon Diebler will catch a pass, set his feet, coil and release a shot at the top of his jump.

Feliz among 8 who sign 2011 contracts with Texas

SURPRISE, Ariz. (AP) -- The Texas Rangers have agreed to terms on 2011 contracts with record-setting closer Neftali Feliz, outfielder Julio Borbon and six other players.

Fire loss, store closings darken downtown Toledo

TOLEDO, Wash. (AP) -- It's been a tough couple of months for downtown Toledo.

Arkansas responds to Pelphrey's passion

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. (AP) -- Mardracus Wade received a text message late last Friday night. When the Arkansas freshman guard looked down to see who it was from, he had a hard time believing what he was looking at.

Nordstrom's 4Q profits up 35 percent

NEW YORK (AP) -- Upscale department store chain Nordstrom Inc. says its fourth-quarter profit rose 35 percent as it tightened inventory controls, saw improved consumer credit and made strong sales at full price, and it's upbeat about 2011.

Kings' Evans to miss All-Star weekend with injury

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) -- Sacramento Kings guard Tyreke Evans will miss the Rookie Challenge at All-Star weekend with an injured left foot.

Feds raid Yakama tobacco company

YAKIMA, Wash. (AP) -- Federal agents have raided a cigarette maker on the Yakama Indian Reservation.

Jayhawks stepping back and taking stock

LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) -- No. 1 Kansas is way past fretting over how brief their stay atop The Associated Press poll will be.

Buehrle doesn't back off critical comment on Vick

GLENDALE, Ariz. (AP) -- Chicago White Sox pitcher Mark Buehrle isn't backing off his critical comment about Michael Vick.

Wash bill would ok sites for cigar, pipe smoking

OLYMPIA, Wash. (AP) -- More than five years after Washington voters banned smoking in most public places, lawmakers are considering making an exception for a limited number of tobacco retailers.

New coordinator Ryan vows Cowboys D will improve

IRVING, Texas (AP) -- Rob Ryan gave brief, bland answers to the first couple questions he was asked at his initial gathering with reporters since becoming defensive coordinator of the Dallas Cowboys. It was so out of character that even he asked, "Am I boring enough yet?"

Raiders announce 2-year deal with Seymour

ALAMEDA, Calif. (AP) -- The Oakland Raiders have officially announced that they have signed Pro Bowl defensive tackle Richard Seymour before he became eligible for free agency.

AP Interview: Aaron sees a Giants-Red Sox Series

NEW YORK (AP) -- Hank Aaron sees hitters regaining superiority over pitchers this year and also envisions a World Series filled with Red Sox and Giants.

Police arrest 7 Greenpeace members at power plant

BRIDGEPORT, Conn. (AP) -- Bridgeport police say seven people who identified themselves as Greenpeace members are charged with trespassing at a coal-fired power plant.

Broncos trying to keep Bailey from bolting

ENGLEWOOD, Colo. (AP) -- John Elway says the Denver Broncos are trying to re-sign perennial Pro Bowl cornerback Champ Bailey.

Former MWC rivals TCU, BYU play in Cowboys Stadium

FORT WORTH, Texas (AP) -- Rose Bowl champion TCU will play BYU in football next season even though they are no longer Mountain West Conference rivals.

Melo-Drama heats up as trade deadline approaches

DENVER (AP) -- Last summer LeBron James gave us "The Decision."

Contador: Algarve win possible despite poor shape

LAGOS, Portugal (AP) -- Alberto Contador says he can still win the Tour of the Algarve despite his fitness being behind schedule because of the a potential doping ban.

NFL, union agree to mediation

NEW YORK (AP) -- The NFL and players' union have agreed to mediation in their labor negotiations.

Cilic beats Berdych to reach Open 13 semis

MARSEILLE, France (AP) -- Marin Cilic of Croatia upset second-seeded Tomas Berdych of the Czech Republic 6-3, 6-4 in a quarterfinal match Friday at the Open 13.

Agbossoumonde loan to Djurgarden finalized

STOCKHOLM (AP) -- American defender Gale Agbossoumonde has joined Swedish club Djurgarden on a six-month loan.

Arizona signs Branyan to minor league contract

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. (AP) -- The Arizona Diamondbacks have signed first baseman Russell Branyan to a minor league contract and made him a non-roster invitee to spring training.

Rockies sign RHP John Maine to minor league deal

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. (AP) -- The Colorado Rockies brought another veteran starter into spring training, signing former New York Mets right-hander John Maine to a minor league deal.

Interim coach Vogel has Pacers rolling

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) -- Indiana interim coach Frank Vogel has brought confidence back to the Indiana Pacers.

Wright enjoying breakout season with Warriors

OAKLAND, Calif. (AP) -- Dorell Wright was already plotting his departure from Miami even before LeBron James bumped him from the Heat's roster last summer. The moment James made his infamous decision on national television it all became official.

Nationals phenom Strasburg has 'good' 1st workout

VIERA, Fla. (AP) -- Washington Nationals former No. 1 draft pick Stephen Strasburg says he felt good after participating in his first spring training workout since undergoing ligament replacement surgery on his right elbow last September.

Devils G Brodeur returns to practice

NEWARK, N.J. (AP) -- New Jersey Devils goaltender Martin Brodeur returned to practice on Thursday for the first time since spraining his knee Feb. 6, but he would not set a timetable for his return.

Brodeur returns to Devils practice

NEWARK, N.J. (AP) -- New Jersey Devils goaltender Martin Brodeur returned to practice Thursday for the first time since spraining his knee Feb. 6, but he would not set a timetable for when he might return to games.

Browne, Cooper to play benefit in Tucson, Ariz.

TUCSON, Ariz. (AP) -- Jackson Browne, Alice Cooper, David Crosby and Graham Nash will perform in Tucson, Ariz., to benefit a charitable fund established after the shooting there that killed six people and wounded 13 others.

Patience wearing thin with Timberwolves

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) -- All the momentum the Minnesota Timberwolves thought they were building earlier this season appears to be gone now.

Canucks lose another defenseman to injury

VANCOUVER, British Columbia (AP) -- The Vancouver Canucks are running out of defensemen after losing Kevin Bieksa to an injured left foot.

Wilson misses throwing session because of back

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. (AP) -- San Francisco Giants closer Brian Wilson had his scheduled throwing session delayed Thursday because of tightness in his back.

Top seed Almagro moves into Buenos Aires quarters

BUENOS AIRES, Argentina (AP) -- Top-seeded Nicolas Almagro of Spain beat Leonardo Mayer of Argentina in three sets to reach the Copa Claro quarterfinals on Thursday.

Mets: Ace Johan Santana may return by late June

PORT ST. LUCIE, Fla. (AP) -- New York Mets general manager Sandy Alderson says there's a chance that ace Johan Santana may recover from shoulder surgery in time to rejoin the team by late June.

Ore. man raises awareness about dangerous dogs

ASTORIA, Ore. (AP) -- An Oregon man has started an organization to raise awareness about dangerous dogs after his granddaughter was killed by a family pet.

Carlos Leon: I didn't ask Madonna for acting tips

NEW YORK (AP) -- Carlos Leon may have a close relationship with Madonna, but he has no plans to ask her for acting tips.

It's a boy for Rod Stewart and Penny Lancaster

NEW YORK (AP) -- It's a boy for Rod Stewart and his wife, Penny Lancaster.

DeRosa ready to win a job with champion Giants

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. (AP) -- Mark DeRosa had barely been in the clubhouse for five minutes unpacking his things Thursday morning when Aubrey Huff arrived and the razzing began.

Valmon, Deem picked to head track team in London

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) -- Andrew Valmon of Maryland and Amy Deem of Miami have been picked to coach the U.S. track and field team at the 2012 London Olympics.

Wash. court says siblings can't file death claims

OLYMPIA, Wash. (AP) -- The Washington State Supreme Court says the siblings of a 7-year-old boy who died of starvation in the care of his adoptive mother can't bring claims under the state's wrongful death law.

NASCAR or Indy? Danica undecided on plans for 2012

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (AP) -- Danica Patrick's season hasn't even started, and the biggest thing everybody wants to know is what she'll do next year.

Crossing Nepal in 49 days on Great Himalaya Trail

GAINESVILLE, Va. (AP) -- A trekker's dream has become a reality in Nepal.

Blackhawks coach Quenneville undergoing tests

CHICAGO (AP) -- Blackhawks coach Joel Quenneville was undergoing tests Thursday after being hospitalized with an undisclosed ailment.

Top Jackets center out 2-3 weeks

COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) -- The Columbus Blue Jackets have placed top-line center Derick Brassard on injured reserve and he's expected to miss two or three weeks with an injured hand.

Bothell chooses developer for City Hall project

BOTHELL, Wash. (AP) -- Paul Allen's Vulcan Real Estate company, which has developed the south Lake Union area of Seattle, is taking on a project in the suburbs.

Desmond Howard joins USA Football board

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) -- Desmond Howard has joined the board of directors of USA Football, the official youth football development partner of the NFL.

Ore. officer charged with theft resigns by fax

REDMOND, Ore. (AP) -- A central Oregon police lieutenant charged with theft and official misconduct has resigned.

Washington lawmaker would restrict state junk food

OLYMPIA, Wash. (AP) -- State Rep. Laurie Jinkins is a Tacoma public health administrator and she doesn't like the candy bars, chips and sodas she sees on sale in the Capitol Dome Deli.

Webb aiming to be in Rangers rotation from start

SURPRISE, Ariz. (AP) -- Brandon Webb says his No. 1 goal is to open the season in the Texas Rangers' starting rotation.

2-year-old girl drowns in bathtub at Humptulips

HUMPTULIPS, Wash. (AP) -- The Grays Harbor sheriff's office is investigating the death of a 2-year-old girl in Humptulips, but Chief Criminal Deputy Dave Pimentel says it appears to be an accidental drowning in a bathtub.

DC United waives defender Julius James

WASHINGTON (AP) -- Central defender Julius James has been waived by D.C. United after 112 seasons with the Major League Soccer club.

Ore. exports surge after recession, led by China

PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) -- Oregon exports increased last year, led by high-tech sales and record shipments to China.

Robert-Jan Derksen leads the Avantha Masters

NEW DELHI (AP) -- Robert-Jan Derksen shot a 6-under 66 Thursday to take the lead in the suspended first round of the Avantha Masters.

Rod Stewart becomes father for 8th time

LONDON (AP) -- Rocker Rod Stewart has become a father for the eighth time.

ICE auditing 1,000 more companies' hiring records

WASHINGTON (AP) -- More U.S. businesses are about to feel the sting of the Obama administration's immigration enforcement strategy.

Jury selection begins in Ore. babysitter death

ROSEBURG, Ore. (AP) -- Jury selection has begun in the aggravated murder trial of Dale Wayne Hill, who is accused of killing a teenage babysitter in the southern Oregon town of Riddle in 1998.

Harden shut down for 2 weeks after latest injury

PHOENIX (AP) -- Oakland Athletics right-hander Rich Harden is expected to miss two weeks of spring training after experiencing stiffness in the lat muscle below his pitching arm when he tried to throw Tuesday.

High court asked to end non-unanimous convictions

WASHINGTON (AP) -- Almost anywhere in the United States, two holdouts among 12 jurors would prevent a conviction.

Robert-Jan Derksen retains lead at Avantha Masters

NEW DELHI (AP) -- Robert-Jan Derksen retained his lead after the completion of the weather-interrupted first round of the Avantha Masters on Friday.

Seattle utility repairs faulty light poles, plates

SEATTLE (AP) -- Seattle City Light has repaired 158 light poles and plates with dangerous voltages.

Seattle utility finds faulty light poles, plates

SEATTLE (AP) -- Seattle City Light has identified 158 light poles and plates with dangerous voltages that need repair.

House denies bid to lift wolf protections in Wyo.

BILLINGS, Mont. (AP) -- A lawmaker has failed in an attempt to get Wyoming included in a measure before Congress to lift federal protections for gray wolves across most of the Northern Rockies.

Feds outline options for mining near Grand Canyon

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) -- The U.S. Department of Interior has outlined four proposals to address mining around the Grand Canyon, one of which would set aside 1 million acres from any new claims.

Interior plan bans mining claims near Grand Canyon

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) -- The U.S. Department of Interior is proposing to bar the filing of any new mining claims on 1 million acres around the Grand Canyon.

Robert Kubica stable after surgery

GENOA, Italy (AP) -- Formula One driver Robert Kubica's is in satisfactory and stable condition after right elbow surgery.

Pierce and Allen bring own styles to 3-pt contest

BOSTON (AP) -- Ray Allen will have plenty of company at this year's NBA All-Star weekend.

AP source: Pegula set to take over Sabres

BUFFALO, N.Y. (AP) -- A person familiar with the sale of the Buffalo Sabres has told The Associated Press that the NHL is expected to approve Terry Pegula's purchase of the franchise in the next few days, opening the way for the Pennsylvania billionaire to take control next week.

Fred Wilpon predicts family 'will be vindicated'

PORT ST. LUCIE, Fla. (AP) -- New York Mets owner Fred Wilpon predicted his family "will be vindicated" from a claim they had prior knowledge of Bernard Madoff's Ponzi scheme.

Measure would ban plastic bags in Washington state

OLYMPIA, Wash. (AP) -- A state lawmaker is renewing her efforts to ban throwaway plastic bags from retail stores in Washington.

Kubica leaves intensive care unit

GENOA, Italy (AP) -- Hospital officials say injured Formula One driver Robert Kubica has left the intensive care unit.

Fenerbahce to sue lab for Taurasi doping report

ANKARA, Turkey (AP) -- Fenerbahce says it will take legal action against a Turkish doping lab which reported an apparent "false positive" for American basketball player Diana Taurasi.

Interpol among agencies searching for Oregon man

PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) -- Interpol and U.S. marshals are among the law enforcement agencies searching for a former Beaverton School District teacher facing child pornography charges.

FIFA suspends Israel coach over debt to Qatar club

ZURICH (AP) -- FIFA has suspended Israel coach Luis Fernandez over a debt he owes to a club in Qatar.

Former Hanford worker sentenced in fraud case

RICHLAND, Wash. (AP) -- A former materials coordinator at the Hanford nuclear reservation has been sentenced to three years probation for arranging supply orders to be filled by a company his wife owned.

Schwarzenegger critiques statue headed to Austria

LEWISTON, Idaho (AP) -- A 9-foot-tall statue depicting Arnold Schwarzenegger at the height of his bodybuilding career has received a final critique by the former Mr. Universe before it's sent for bronzing.

Appeals court backs Ore. woman in contempt ruling

BEND, Ore. (AP) -- The Oregon Court of Appeals has ruled a former Bend real estate broker should not have been held in contempt when she refused to produce documents and answer questions in a debtor examination.

Janka aims to salvage season with GS win at worlds

GARMISCH-PARTENKIRCHEN, Germany (AP) -- Overall World Cup champion Carlo Janka of Switzerland wants to turn around a disappointing season by successfully defending his title in Friday's giant slalom at the world championships.

Defense leads Evergreen boys to victory

Plainsmen advance to next round of the 4A bi-district

The Evergreen boys basketball team brought its defense and just enough scoring Wednesday night to get one game closer to the Class 4A state tournament. Warren Edmondson scored 17 points, and reserve Derrick Pleasant made a huge impact in limited minutes, leading the Plainsmen to a 53-43 victory over Gig Harbor in the opening round of the Class 4A bi-district tournament at Evergreen High School.

Stories for February 17, 2011

Lead stories

Stories

As budget was cut, many stepped up to help others during recession

He says leadership key to making such huge projects reality

Vehicles stolen, bogus credit cards made, police say

Details of confrontation remain unclear