Monday, April 30, 2012

That’s ‘moussaka’ to our ears

SIDE DISH

The days of $50 pasta on the East End are over — for now.

Nello’s Summertime has checked out of Southampton, though the Madison Avenue flagship remains.

In its place out East is Nammos.

Still using Nello’s’ old phone number, the restaurant is Greek, named for the white sand of Mykanos.

The 185-seat restaurant will focus on Greek seafood.

The signature dish is soft shell crab moussaka — and the price will be far lower than what Nello’s once charged

Thomas Makkos is one of the owners, and the restaurant is run by some of the old crew from nearby Trata.

***

Elsewhere on the East End, Osteria Salina is opening in the former Copa space at 95 School St. in Bridgehampton.

Salina, named after an Aeolian Island off the coast of Sicily, is a New Sicilian-inspired eatery. Owner Chris Boudouris retained Timothy Gaglio’s Integral Food & Beverage Consultants to deliver the vision.

The kitchen will be headed by Cinzia Gaglio, of Sora, Italy, where her great-grandfather owned a restaurant and general store that included everything from bocce courts to pastas, pizzas, salted meats and wine.

Osteria Salina will open with a special Mother’s Day brunch menu on May 13 before its public opening on May 18. The restaurant seats 140 inside and out.

*

Dan’s Taste of Two Forks is back for its second annual event on July 14, Bastille Day, at Sayre Park in Bridgehampton.

This year, Jean-Georges Vongerichten will host the event along with fashion designer Nicole Miller.

Founded by Dan’s Papers and owned by Manhattan Media, the event will showcase the best local culinary talent from more than 30 East End restaurants, Long Island wineries and top purveyors.

Restaurants that have signed on so far include: Georgica, 1770 House, Luce and Hawkins, Race Lane, Nick & Toni’s, Beaumarchais East Hampton, Navy Beach and Rumba Rum Bar.

Tickets, on sale starting tomorrow, run from $150 to $225 for early VIP access.

Cinzia Gaglio, East End, Timothy Gaglio’s Integral Food , Owner Chris Boudouris, Osteria Salina

Nypost.com

Jets have needs not fixed by Draft

Despite the report cards handed out over the weekend, no one will know exactly how The Jets did in the 2012 NFL Draft for years.

The more important question right now is what work needs to be done by general manager Mike Tannenbaum and Co. before training camp opens at the end of July. The Jets believe they landed two immediate starters in defensive end Quinton Coples, their first-round pick, and wide receiver Stephen Hill, their second-rounder. But there are other needs that were not addressed.

The two positions that still appear problematic for this season are right tackle and safety. The Jets did not select a tackle, something many thought they would after Wayne Hunter’s terrible 2011 season. Clearly, the Jets’ decision-makers do not think that position is as bad off as the media and fans do.

Both Tannenbaum and coach Rex Ryan have given hints that the spot will be open for competition come training camp. Hunter and third-year tackle Vladimir Ducasse could be a camp battle where there is no fan favorite.

On Saturday, Ryan gave Hunter a vote of confidence and hinted the problem might have been the system of either former offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer or former offensive line coach Bill Callahan.

“I think Wayne will play better this year,” Ryan said. “I like the fact that Vladimir Ducasse is into his third year and has a full offseason finally, which will be a first. I think that’s going to help. Some systems work better for other guys. We’ll see how this one works out.”

Ryan went on to say the Dolphins liked Hunter when he was a free agent last year. New Jets offensive coordinator Tony Sparano was the Dolphins head coach then and Jets offensive line coach Dave DeGuglielmo was with Miami, too.

“I know Miami when Wayne was a free agent they were all after him,” Ryan said. “They really wanted Wayne as well. We were fortunate to keep him. I think Wayne’s been criticized a lot. Maybe he’d be one of the first guys to tell you maybe he could have had a better year and maybe more consistent, but I think it’s fair to say that our whole football team was the same way. ... I believe that Wayne will have a big year for us.”

The Jets did select two safeties in the draft — Josh Bush in the sixth round and Antonio Allen in the seventh. But it’s hard to imagine either player having an immediate impact outside of special teams.

That means the current starting safeties are LaRon Landry and Eric Smith, who are similar “in the box” type safeties. This could be a position the Jets target in the upcoming weeks in free agency. Former Dolphins safety Yeremiah Bell visited before the draft, but Bell has a similar skill set to Landry and Smith.

Jim Leonhard, the team’s starting safety for the last three years, is still a free agent as he recovers from knee surgery. It is possible the team brings him back on a one-year deal if he is healthy before training camp.

brian.costello@nypost.com

the Jets, The Jets, Vladimir Ducasse, Mike Tannenbaum, Rex Ryan, training camp, Quinton Coples, offensive line coach, Brian Schottenheimer, Stephen Hill

Nypost.com

Sunday, April 29, 2012

Walk-year guys to run with

headshotJonathan Lehman

ROTO FILES

Three of the four major-league leaders in RBIs going into this weekend — Matt Kemp, Andre Ethier, Nick Swisher, Josh Hamilton — had something fantastically important in common.

Slugging outfielders Ethier (Dodgers), Swisher (Yankees) and Hamilton (Rangers) are set to become free agents this winter, meaning they’re in their so-called walk years. The otherworldly Kemp is signed to the Dodgers long-term — he’s just in a leap year.

It’s human nature for players to have career years on the brink of a massive payday. They have a few million reasons to increase their preparation, up their intensity, tough out a minor injury, etc. Carl Crawford in 2010 and Jose Reyes in 2011 immediately come to mind.

The walk-year bump is a useful trend for fantasy managers to exploit. Here’s a look at some of the lesser lights of the 2013 free-agent class worth a pickup:Starting pitchers

Let’s say prime-age strikeout artists Zack Greinke and Cole Hamels aren’t for sale. There are a number of attractive arms on the next tier.

Don’t let the home-run numbers scare you off the Rangers’ Colby Lewis. As an extreme fly-ball pitcher working in a bandbox, it comes with the territory — he allowed a league-leading 35 last year. But with a slight luck correction, dependable run support, a strong K rate and walk numbers approaching nil, he’s a savvy buy.

The Nationals’ Edwin Jackson (who has 26 whiffs through 25-plus innings by featuring a devastating slider) and the Marlins’ Anibal Sanchez will pile up strikeouts while minimizing ERA damage in what appear to be pitchers’ parks. ERA front-runners Kyle Lohse (Cardinals) and Joe Saunders (D’backs) have been more lucky than good so far, but it doesn’t mean you can’t ride it.

Outfielders

The Michael Bourn Legacy — on basepaths this summer. The Braves leadoff man has hiked up his walks, making 70 steals a possibility. Carlos Lee is a forgotten War Caballo, on pace for 110 RBIs and a candidate for a work-release from his term in Houston.

Crawford’s elbow injury is medicine for Cody Ross owners: The pull-happy Red Sox righty can challenge 30 homers taking aim at the Green Monster. The Rays’ B.J. Upton is the most dissed 20-30 guy in the league. The Giants’ Melky Cabrera is the most covert 20-30 threat in the league, and he might hit .300 to boot.

Catchers

Mike Napoli has launched another 30-homer season in Texas. See if you can pry away Diamondbacks backstop Miguel Montero while his early-season slump lingers. The mirage is his .250 slugging percentage at Arizona’s generous Chase Field — that figure should double.

Russell Martin, worth more in an on-base league than one with straight batting average, was nursing a .118 average with runners on. A reversion there will produce an RBI windfall in the potent Yankees lineup.

jlehman@nypost.com

Nick Swisher, Andre Ethier, Josh Hamilton, Hamilton, Matt Kemp, Carl Crawford, Dodgers, Zack Greinke, Jonathan LehmanROTO FILESThree, Cole Hamels, Michael Bourn Legacy, Rangers, Edwin Jackson, Colby Lewis, the Dodgers, Anibal Sanchez, Jose Reyes, Miguel Montero, Kyle Lohse, Joe Saunders

Nypost.com

The Heat Is On For The Knicks

MIAMI—In the days leading up to the Knicks' playoff series against the Miami Heat, there was, somehow, optimism. There was a stream of "anything can happen" talking points, and Knicks coach Mike Woodson said Friday that when a team is counted out by everyone, as the Knicks are here, "something always amazingly happens."

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Reuters

LeBron James scored 32 points as the Heat throttled the Knicks in Game 1 of their playoff series Saturday.

Something did, in fact, happen Saturday: The Knicks lost by 33 points and had one of their most disastrous games in recent memory. The Heat spent 48 minutes reminding the Knicks that there is no such thing as an NBA Cinderella while the Knicks spent the day reminding everyone how flawed they are.

Carmelo Anthony, the Knicks star, made three of his 15 shots and finished with 11 points in 33 minutes. Tyson Chandler, who was a game-time decision with the flu, scored zero points in 21 minutes but managed to pick up four offensive fouls in one half. He was also whistled for a flagrant for awkwardly barreling into LeBron James, who in turn went on a frenzied nine-point run that opened the game up and led to him finishing with 32 points. Then the afternoon got worse, with rookie Iman Shumpert going to a local hospital with a serious knee injury.

The Knicks have now lost 11 straight playoff games—their last playoff win came in 2001—and that streak is tied for the second-worst NBA postseason losing skid of all time. Their 67 points tied the franchise low for points in a playoff game. Oh, and their 27 turnovers tied a playoff franchise record, too.

"They hit us in the mouth," Woodson said after the game. "So we need to see what we are made of."

The 100-67 drubbing was never close after a 24-18 first quarter. While much will be made about the officiating—the Heat had 33 free throws to the Knicks' 15—the bulk of the Knicks' problems came on offense, where James outscored the combined total of New York's starters. Though he had plenty of athletic plays, especially during his second-quarter run, James' most symbolic play came at the end of the third quarter with Anthony guarding him tightly. James had Anthony's hand in his face and just two seconds left on the clock, so he simply shot what look to be an ill-advised shot. It went in, of course, because everything went in Saturday. The three made it 81-47.

The game may have been historically bad if not for J.R. Smith's team-high 17 points. For the Heat, Dwyane Wade had 19, and Chris Bosh had nine. One crucial problem was Chandler's weak state from the illness, which led Woodson to say Friday that he'd be a "strong possibility to miss the game." Chandler was hooked up to IVs for fluid after the game and said he "wasn't able to do the things I'm normally able to do." He fumbled two easy passes near the basket and was called for two charges.

"He wasn't himself out there," said forward Amar'e Stoudemire. "I can tell. Tyson is very, very vocal, and tonight he didn't quite have it. There were a couple of easy baskets he couldn't finish. He felt a little dizzy out there the whole game."

Stoudemire also struggled, scoring just nine points and making two of his seven shots. It was his fourth consecutive playoff game in which he shot under 30%.

Things unraveled for the Knicks quickly. Stoudemire, Woodson and Anthony were all called for technical fouls, and Anthony characterized things as "getting out of hand." During the run, Woodson said, "all hell broke loose." Whatever the case, the game was chippy and looked like a mild version of the mid-90s Knicks-Heat rivalry, but without the fistfights and without the Knicks having a chance.

Anthony said the team was "rushing a lot of things out there" and never found a rhythm. He was slowed for most of the game by Shane Battier, whom Heat coach Erik Spoelstra praised. But he added a warning: Anthony, Spoelstra said, will be back. The Knicks hope so.

Write to Kevin Clark at kevin.clark@wsj.com

Knicks, Knicks, Mike Woodson, The Heat, The Knicks, Miami Heat, the Heat, LeBron James, playoff game, playoff game ebook download, Tyson Chandler, playoff series, Woodson

Online.wsj.com

Saturday, April 28, 2012

Near-perfect Kassan leads Fieldston to season sweep of Collegiate

Max Kassan was as close to perfect as Fieldston could have hoped.

The sophomore southpaw tossed a complete-game, three-hit shutout as the Eagles defeated Collegiate, 7-0, in Ivy Prep League baseball on Randall's Island on Friday.

Kassan struck out 10 and was five outs away from a perfect game before Jake Singer slapped a single to centerfield with one out in the top of the sixth.

“I wasn’t really thinking about the perfect game that much,” Kassan said. “But it was there. [After the first hit] I smiled, I just looked to the bench and had a smile on my face.”

Robert Cole

Max Kassan led Fieldston to a 7-0 shutout of Collegiate on Friday.

Kassan had to protect a 3-0 lead for most of the game until Fieldston broke the game open in the top of the seventh, scoring four times. The frame started with Jake Turtel reaching on an error. After Matt Stadler moved him over, Will Savage drove him in with a double to left. Matt Nunez then reached on an error before Matt Guzman drove them both in with a double to left.

“We always get the lead and let it go,” said Guzman, who had three RBIs and scored twice. “We have to finish teams off and today was a perfect example of finishing things off. Max has been a surprise; he’s really coming through.”

The seventh was big for Fieldston (9-1, 7-1), because the Eagles failed to take full advantage of a key opportunity in the fourth. The Eagles were clinging to a 1-0 lead with the bases loaded with one out and were only able to scratch across two runs on a walk by Sam Jacobson and a fielder's choice by Turtel.

“We’ve been trying to get back on track, especially offensively,” Fieldston coach Tony Marro said. “We had that one nice inning in the seventh and it was nice to see guys come through with runners in scoring position.”

While the offense was able to pull through, Marro realizes the success for Fieldston came mostly due to Kassan’s performance on the mound on Friday.

“That’s Max,” he said. “He’s a young guy and he battles and never gets frustrated. He’s a great young pitcher. Everyone knew [about the no-hitter] and it’s like anything else in the dugout, you just keep it hush-hush and no one likes to say anything. It was a really fun atmosphere.”

While pitching was strong for Fieldston, Collegiate (3-5, 3-4) had some trouble on the mound. Chris Giglio gave up three runs in four innings. Giglio only gave up two hits, but he walked two and hit two batters. Singer took over in the fifth and was responsible for the seventh-inning surge by Fieldston.

Kassan got into trouble in the bottom of the seventh when Collegiate had runners on second and third with no out. Kassan was able to strike out the side to close it out.

“I felt good the whole day,” Kassan said. “I just tried to throw it in there.”

Fieldston can only hope the good feeling continues.

Max Kassan, Fieldston, the Eagles, the Eagles, perfect game, Jake Singer, Matt Stadler, Collegiate, Kassan, Fieldston, Collegiate, Ivy Prep League baseball, Matt Nunez, Jake Turtel

Nypost.com

Thursday, April 26, 2012

Yonkers Results

FIRST-1-mile pace; $8,500 cond

5

MyLastLaugh(BSears)

3.10

2.40

2.20

1

Giacometti (L Stalbaum)

7.40

3.30

2

Cadence N (G Brennan)

4.10

* Exacta (5-1) $15.80 * Triple (5-1-2) $62.00

SECOND-1-mile trot; $11,000 cond

3

Whybbywhy(BHollnd)

7.00

4.00

2.20

2

Klm Express (J Marshall)

3.20

2.20

1

Reigning Dough (J Doherty)

2.80

* Exacta (3-2) $18.80 * Triple (3-2-1) $40.40 * Daily double (5-3) $18.40

THIRD-1-mile pace; $8,500 cond

5

FxVllyTyrs(MMcDnld)

5.90

3.10

2.60

4

Manchine (J Bartlett)

2.60

2.10

1

Fissato (G Brennan)

3.20

* Exacta (5-4) $16.80 * Triple (5-4-1) $40.20 * Superfecta (5-4-1-7) $220.50

Exacta picked by Smith

FOURTH-1-mile trot; $11,000 claim

2

SpeedHnover(DDube)

13.80

4.70

2.60

1

I Look Special (G Brennan)

2.70

2.10

3

Perfect Scam (M MacDonald)

3.60

* Exacta (2-1) $46.00 * Triple (2-1-3) $218.50 * Pick 3 (3-5-2) $308.00

FIFTH-1-mile pace; $8,500 cond

3

NFrgnXchng(GBrnnn)

7.70

2.90

2.50

4

Rego Park (B Sears)

2.30

2.20

6

Powered By Scoot (J Bongiorno)

8.80

* Exacta (3-4) $15.80 * Triple (3-4-6) $135.50 * Superfecta (3-4-6-8) $1,202.00Scr: Trickyjakeskyscape.

Exacta picked by Smith

SIXTH-1-mile pace; $11,000 cond

1

RelentlessG(JStrtton)

4.60

3.20

3.00

3

AutomatcTeller(GBrennan)

5.30

3.70

4

RavenswoodReese(MMacDonald)

4.00

* Exacta (1-3) $17.80 * Triple (1-3-4) $109.00 * Pick 4 (5-2-3-1) $962.00

SEVENTH-1-mile pace; $11,000 claim

7

LordOfTheBlng(BSrs)

4.30

2.90

2.30

5

Amasa Al (D Dube)

9.90

5.80

3

All Powerful (J Bartlett)

5.40

* Exacta (7-5) $40.80 * Triple (7-5-3) $212.00 * Pick 3 (3-1-7) $116.50Scr: Big E.

Winner picked by Smith.

EIGHTH-1-mile pace; $12,000 cond

5

Hi Sir (M MacDonald)

14.60

7.90

4.50

3

Problem Solver (J Bartlett)

16.20

7.20

2

Big Time Rocks (J Gregory)

3.00

* Exacta (5-3) $196.50 * Triple (5-3-2) $586.00 * Superfecta (5-3-2-7) $3,188.00

NINTH-1-mile pace; $12,000 claim

5

Smllthcolrnn(GBrnnn)

3.90

2.90

2.30

1

Yes Hanover (S Smith)

4.90

3.40

2

Ultimate Desire (J Bartlett)

3.00

* Exacta (5-1) $15.60 * Triple (5-1-2) $63.00Scr: Come Together.

TENTH-1-mile pace; $14,000 claim

2

Let's Roll Joe(BSears)

3.90

2.40

2.10

8

Lislea Miles (G Brennan)

3.40

3.10

1

Lebron (C Manzi)

3.70

* Exacta (2-8) $17.60 * Triple (2-8-1) $77.00 * Superfecta (2-8-1-4) $211.50 * Pick 3 (5-5-2) $238.00 * Pick 4 (6,7-5-5,8-2) $941.00

Winner picked by Smith.

ELEVENTH-1-mile pace; $11,000 cond

3

Listowel (B Sears)

5.30

2.80

2.30

1

ArtOfTemptaton(LStalbum)

3.60

2.10

4

Silent Partner (C Manzi)

2.50

* Exacta (3-1) $15.80 * Triple (3-1-4) $45.60

Winner picked by Smith.

TWELFTH-1-mile pace; $11,000 cond

7

StnbrdgTnc(MMcDnld)

4.00

2.80

2.30

3

Brave Call (J Bartlett)

4.80

4.00

4

Awesome Abe (G Brennan)

3.20

* Exacta (7-3) $21.40 * Triple (7-3-4) $93.50 * Superfecta (7-3-4-2) $278.50 * Late double (3-7) $10.20

Winner picked by Smith.

Attendance: N/A; Total Handle-$882,662.

J Bartlett, J Bartlett, G Brennan, G Brennan, J Doherty

Nypost.com

Monday, April 23, 2012

It's a Marvel-ous idea

ON THE MONEY

Marvel Comics is implementing a first-of-its-kind digital feature that will allow readers access to new, single issues of their favorite superheroes’ adventures the same day they hit store shelves.

By providing a download code inside the comic book for various tablet formats — an industry first — Marvel is giving consumers a reward for visiting the dusty old comic-book retailers while opening the eyes of the publishing world.

“This move by Marvel is extremely innovative — I applaud it,” said Flipboard Editorial Director Josh Quittner.

The comics industry rang up nearly $414 million in sales for North America in 2011. Marvel, which stands at the forefront of the comic-book world, still decided to create an option for consumers who occasionally pick up reading material at the newsstand to gain instant online access.

Christina Hendricks

WIRE IMAGE

Christina Hendricks

“You think the magazine industry would have figured out how to get single issues on tablets for consumers by now,” added Quittner, who also worked at Time Inc.

They may be getting close.

An exec who previously worked at Condé Nast said that very topic has been discussed weekly at online meetings.

“There are several moving parts — it’s not as easy as most people think,” our insider told On The Money. “It may be easier for Marvel to do this, but make no mistake, it’s a bold, original move. People have immediately taken notice.”

Joseph Barracato

Hey, Bungalow thrill

Get ready to party. Amy Sacco is primed to reclaim her title as The Queen of New York nightlife with a new Bungalow 8 nightclub.

The businesswoman, whose wildly popular Bungalow 8 closed in late 2009, confirmed she is launching a new Bungalow 8. “I am opening up, but can’t release details yet,” she wrote in an e-mail. We’re guessing the timing is soon.

Sacco is known as a club pioneer in New York; her first venture was Lot 61 in the late 1990s. She created Bungalow 8 in Manhattan’s Meatpacking District back in 2001, when the area was sketchy. The club attracted A-list actors, models and socialites and everyone else who wanted a taste of the glamour.

Kate Moss, Jay-Z, Lindsay Lohan, George Clooney and Sienna Miller were all sighted at the club.

Sacco opened Bungalow 8 London at St. Martin’s Lane Hotel in Covent Garden in 2007. It closed late last year, two years after the New York club closed its doors. Sacco also launched Bungalow 8 in Amsterdam, under a licensing agreement, and it is still open.

You can bet the lines will be forming for a new Bungalow.

Julie Earle-Levine

‘Shade’-y character

Talk about getting the most out of your assets.

“Mad Men” starlet Christina Hendricks is prepping to do a little advertising. The client is herself.

Hendricks is looking to add to the $50,000 an episode she collects on the hit AMC show and join her co-stars John Slattery (Lincoln endorser) and Jon Hamm (Mercedes-Benz pitchman) and earn a few other paychecks outside the old ad office.

Hendricks, who recently joked about the lack of swimsuit options for her buxom frame, has begun sketching out designs for her own line of beachwear.

An insider, who likened her curves to those of Tyra Banks and the late Anna Nicole Smith, explained to OTM, “I’m very sure designers will get a whiff of what she’s looking to do and contact her within a few weeks, especially since the summer is coming.”

Hendricks is also rumored to be targeted for a role in the film adaptation of E.L. James’ best-selling novel, “Fifty Shades of Grey,” now that Universal and Focus Features have secured the rights.

Hendricks’ name has surfaced in several circles as she continues gaining momentum as the “It” girl in Tinseltown. If she does land a role in the sizzling tale, Hamm and Co. won’t be too far ahead in the net-worth category, where she currently sits at $6 million.

Joseph Barracato

On Time

Our Time, an organization raising awareness of stuttering, is just 11 years old, but the New York-based nonprofit has already amassed a team of celebrity supporters.

Many of the actors who participated in last Monday’s benefit gala — which raised $550,000 — were recruited by friends who are closely involved with the program that uses the arts to help kids who stutter.

“Law & Order” star Jesse L. Martin has known Our Time founder Taro Alexander for 15 years. “SNL” alum Rachel Dratch met the managing director at a Broadway after-party. And Victor Garber heard about the annual event from “Alias” co-star Ron Rifkin.

This year, Our Time honors New York Jets offensive guard Matt Slauson, who also stutters.

“I haven’t been very active with charities in the past because I haven’t been in that position yet, and I really want to be a part of something that applies to me,” Slauson said. “I feel like this is a great start to that.”

Hilary Lewis

Christina Hendricks, Marvel, Amy Sacco, New York, Flipboard Editorial, Lindsay Lohan, consumers

Nypost.com

Saturday, April 21, 2012

Hit parade: Tottenville batters Construction

The better the pitching, the better Tottenville produces.

“We are all used to travel [ball],” sophomore Jillian Regan said. “It’s difficult to adjust to the slower pitching.”

The Pirates struggled with their timing earlier this week for five innings against Madison ace Cheyenne Tatesure, but pounded out 13 hits against Construction’s hard-throwing Britney Rodriguez, considered one of the city’s best windmillers. That added up to an impressive 15-2 win over the host Red Hawks in a PSAL Class A crossover game at Smokey Oval Park on Friday.

“She is one of the best pitchers we’ve seen all season long and to hit her so hard [is impressive],” Tottenville coach Cathy Morano said. “But they like to hit against pitchers like this.”

Robert Cole

Tottenville's Jillian Regan had two hits and two RBIs against Construction on Friday

The Pirates, ranked No. 1 in the city by The Post, scored a run in the second, four times each in the third, fifth and seventh and got two other runs in the fourth. Five players had at least two hits and seven drove in at least a run. Cheryl Lopez was 3-for-3 with a sac fly, had two RBIs and was a home run short of the cycle. Regan was 2-for-2 with a double, triple, two walks and two RBIs. Nylah Ramirez had two hits and drove in three and Stephanie Tufano collected two hits and had two RBIs.

“I honestly think we do better against faster pitching,” Lopez said.

The junior ace was again dominant in the circle. She surrendered just two hits when No. 6 Construction (6-1) scored two in the fourth to make it 7-2, and struck out 13. The Pirates feel like this eight-day stretch against some of the PSAL’s top teams has brought out their best this team. They are a win over rival Susan Wagner on Monday – barring the traditional rain – from finishing a perfect 4-0.

“It’s proved that we are the team to beat and no matter what anyone else says we can come up and beat the teams that are better this year,” Regan said.

Construction, who many figured would be one of Tottenville’s biggest challengers to another city title, is in a bit of a transition with junior shortstop Alicia Gonzalez leaving the team in a mutual decision with coach Marco Migliaccio. It shifted the defense with sophomore Amy Pirozek moving to short and freshman Nicole Ovelheira now at second. Construction made eight errors, most leading to runners advancing after hits.

“We had a tough day, but it’s a very good learning day,” Migliaccio said. … “That’s a great team. They are going to put the ball in play. We got to make the plays.”

Tottenville on the other hand is making it clear during this stretch, with one more big game left, that this group is beginning to come into its own as it looks for yet another crown.

“You play the better competition,” Morano said. “We are starting to play better. We are starting to get a lot more focused in what we are doing.”

j staszewski@nypost.com

Jillian Regan, Tottenville, Tottenville, Madison ace Cheyenne Tatesure, Cathy Morano, Britney Rodriguez, Susan Wagner, Cheryl Lopez, Stephanie Tufano, Regan

Nypost.com

Shrinkage factor: BofA's Q1 mortgage biz shows $40B free fall

So this is your new BofA?

Brian Moynihan’s Bank of America is mounting a staggering retreat from its once steady business of underwriting home loans.

The Charlotte, N.C., bank suffered a whopping 80 percent drop in mortgage loans underwritten in the first three months of 2012, seeing the business fall to $16 billion from about $56 billion a year ago.

The retreat marks an about-face by the bank, which under former CEO Ken Lewis embarked upon a ambitious plan to corner the mortgage business by gobbling up stumbling Countrywide Financial during the height of the financial crisis.

Bloomberg

Bank of America CEO Brian Moynihan appears to be presiding over game-changing shrinkage in the firm’s mortgage business.

Now the bank is happy to be an also-ran in a home-loan market being dominated by rivals Wells Fargo, JPMorgan Chase and Citigroup.

“They’re quickly becoming a bit player in mortgages,” said Paul Miller bank analyst at FBR Capital Markets.

According to Miller, BofA’s mortgage origination slice was 10 percent last year and nearly 25 percent in 2007.

Indeed, BofA ranks 10th in mortgage origination, according to trade publication Inside Mortgage Finance with a market share in the ballpark of 2 percent.

The mortgage ranks are being dominated now by Wells Fargo, which reported last week it had underwritten some $129 billion of new mortgages in the first quarter.

JPMorgan is a distant second to Wells with $38.4 billion home loans in the quarter.

“At this point, one out of every three home mortgages is being underwritten by Wells [Fargo],” said Guy Cecala, publisher at IMF.

BofA’s striking mortgage retrenchment comes after the lumbering financial giant has struggled to right its ship after the Countrywide purchase resulted in more than $40 billion in litigation costs and penalties.

Yesterday, BofA, under Moynihan’s stewardship, said it has made significant headway in addressing its legacy issues. It has moved to jettison its so-called third-party corresponding lending business, and dialing back costs at the nation’s No. 2 overall lender.

BofA argues that its plan should allow it to make more money on fewer loans because those loans will be originated directly via its banking relationships.

But that comes as the banking franchise concedes significant ground to its peers in mortgages.

“Our strategy is paying off,” Brian Moynihan said yesterday during a call to discuss earnings with analysts.

The moves led BofA to record a profit of $3.7 billion or 31 cents, compared to a forecast of 12 cents. The profit parade was led by healthier trading in its Merrill Lynch arm led by Tom Montag.

However, overall revenues at $22.5 billion were lower than Wall Street estimates of $22. 8 billion.

BofA shares closed down 1.7 percent to $8.77.

Meanwhile, Morgan Stanley delivered better-than-expected results under CEO James Gorman, who employed a full court press to deliver to the markets and rating agencies that the investment bank was in a good place.

“This quarter is further evidence that Morgan Stanley has rebounded from the financial crisis of 2008,” Gorman, 53, said in a statement.

Morgan Stanley rang up first quarter profits of 71 cents, far outpacing the 44 cents Wall Street expected.

The increase was credited in large part to the Gorman’s plan to stabilize the bank’s flaky trading arm and focus more on so-called flow business driven by client activity.

mark.decambre@nypost.com

Bank of America, BofA, Wells Fargo, Brian Moynihan, Brian Moynihan, Morgan Stanley, Countrywide Financial, Countrywide, mortgage loans, James Gorman, JPMorgan Chase, home mortgages, mortgage business, steady business, CEO Ken Lewis, Moynihan

Nypost.com

Friday, April 20, 2012

Aqueduct Charts

April 19th, 2012

Clear and Fast Turf Firm

©2012 Equibase. All Rights Reserved

FIRST-1 mile; $67,000; alw; 3up(f)

Off: 12:51. Good. 3 wide, drive by 5/16

Time: 23.24, 46.57, 1:11.23, 1:37.35.

Trainer: Brad Baker

Winner: B M, 5, by Successful Appeal-Magic Way

Scr: Risk a Chance, Winsockie.

Horse

Wt.

PP

1/4

1/2

Str.

Fin

Jockey

Odds

Truth Will Tell

122

5

4

4

1 1

1 2 3/4

Castro

0.80

Victory for V L Ts

124

2

2

2

4 1 1/2

2 1

Velasqez

6.30

Glorietta Bay

118

3

1

1

2 1 1/2

3 1/2

Domngez

2.25

Cherokee Trick

122

4

3

3

3 1

4 1 1/2

Naprvnk

19.40

Fashion's Flight

118

1

5

5

5

5

Cohen

6.00

6-Truth Will Tell

3.60

2.40

2.10

2-Victory for V L Ts

4.10

2.40

3-Glorietta Bay

2.20

* Exacta (6-2) $12.00 * Trifecta (6-2-3) $24.20 *

Winner picked by Fountaine, Consensus

SECOND-1 mile; $27,000; clm($14,000); 4up

Off: 1:24. Good. 3w, prolonged drive

Time: 23.65, 46.67, 1:1.7, 1:36.2.

Trainer: Gary Gullo

Winner: B G, 5, by Quiet American-Worth Every Penny

Scr: Eminent Tale.

Horse

Wt.

PP

1/4

1/2

Str.

Fin

Jockey

Odds

Worth a Buck

120

7

4

3

1 hd

1 5

Velazqez

1.70

Custer

118

9

1

1

2 1

2 1/2

Velasqez

4.30

Diamond District

118

8

3

2

3 5

3 4

Nakatani

5.80

Bridge to Nowhere

118

3

9

9

6 1

4 no

Silvera

26.75

Copper Forest

118

1

5

4

4 1/2

5 1 1/4

Maragh

16.00

Magical Myth

118

5

2

5

5 1

6 hd

Lopez

13.50

Secret Getaway

114

10

6

7

7 1 1/2

7 5 1/2

Cmch,J.

62.25

Pistols At Dawn

118

2

8

6

8 3

8 1

Studart

7.60

Macho Muchacho

118

6

10

10

9 1 1/2

9 6 1/4

Alvarado

5.20

Metrology

118

4

7

8

10

10

Ortiz, Jr.

28.25

8-Worth a Buck

5.40

2.90

2.30

10-Custer

4.90

4.00

9-Diamond District

4.10

* Daily Double (6-8) $10.80 * Exacta (8-10) $30.00 * Quinella (8-10) $19.00 * Superfecta (8-10-9-3) $2,363.00 * Trifecta (8-10-9) $119.50 *

Double picked by Fountaine, Consensus

Winner by Debbie L., Vic C.

THIRD-4 1/2 fur; $60,000; mdn; 2YO

Off: 1:54. Good. 4w 5/16, briskly urged

Time: 22.67, 45.7, 51.95.

Trainer: Todd Pletcher

Winner: DK B/ C, 2, by Harlan's Holiday-Steelin'

Scr: Zip City Miss.

Horse

Wt.

PP

1/4

Str.

Fin

Jockey

Odds

Shanghai Bobby

118

4

3

2 1 1/2

1 4

Napravnk

1.10

Ju Ju Eyeballs

115

3

1

1 1/2

2 4

Velazqez

2.00

Do You Smell Smoke

118

5

2

3 5

3 7 1/2

Castro

2.70

a-The Party's Here

116

1

4

4 2 1/2

4 3 3/4

Silvera

18.90

Majestic Wind

118

2

5

5 2 1/2

5 11 3/4

Ortiz, Jr.

12.50

a-Cabs Are Here

110

6

6

6

6

Garcia

18.90

4-Shanghai Bobby

4.20

2.90

2.10

3-Ju Ju Eyeballs

3.20

2.40

5-Do You Smell Smoke

2.40

* Pick 3 (6-8-4) 3 Correct $32.00 * Daily Double (8-4) $14.40 * Exacta (4-3) $12.80 * Trifecta (4-3-5) $17.40 *

Double picked by Vic C

FOURTH-6 1/2 fur; $32,000; mdn clm($30,000); 3up

Off: 2:25. Good. tracked ins, dug in

Time: 23.05, 45.97, 1:11.23, 1:18.1.

Trainer: Todd Pletcher

Winner: B C, 3, by Indian Charlie-Giant Smile

Next >

1

2

3
Nypost.com

Thursday, April 19, 2012

Pay-imperiled Pandit sets $4.3M house sale

After management OK’d a whopping $15 million pay raise, Citigroup CEO Vikram Pandit put the Greenwich, Conn., house he and his wife have owned for the last 11 years on the market for $4.3 million.

But if Pandit is looking to upgrade from his starter mansion, he might want to reconsider in the wake of Citi shareholders’ decision this week to KO the pay package.

That means Pandit, who got a salary of $1.6 million and a $5.3 million bonus plus stock awards, may see his haul get trimmed a bit. The shareholder vote is non-binding.

No, it isn’t easy keeping up in Greenwich.

Citi CEO Vikram Pandit, perhaps looking to trade up, has put his Greenwich, Conn., starter mansion on the block for $4.3M. Hopefully, he wasn’t counting on the approval of a proposed $15M pay package — as angry shareholders voted it down this week.

The two-story Colonial boasts six bedrooms, 6.5 baths, an in-ground pool and a pool house, according to Sotheby’s realty arm, which listed the residence.

The CEO, who also owns an apartment on the Upper West Side, bought the home on 2.37 acres in June 2001 for $4.1 million, real-estate records show.

The $15 million pay package would help to compensate Citi’s boss for the past two years during which he agreed to be paid a mere $1 a year until the bank, which had accepted $45 billion in taxpayer bailouts, returned to profitability.

Citi has moved back into the black, but its financials remain shaky.

Shareholders may feel the board set too low a hurdle for Pandit to pocket the money, experts said. Citi vowed to consider changes.

Citi spokeswoman Shannon Bell declined to comment on the listing, which was first reported by Real Estalker, a celebrity real-estate blog.

Vikram Pandit, Citi, Greenwich, shareholders, ebook download

Nypost.com

Business briefs

MF UK suit

James Giddens, the trustee liquidating MF Global, said a dispute with the collapsed broker’s UK affiliate over some $700 million will have to be settled by an English court. Giddens had asserted that money currently at the UK affiliate belongs to US customers; the affiliate has said it belongs to its own clients.

U B Splitting

UBS’s Ehren Stenzler, co-head of US M&A, said he is leaving the bank.

Bid business

The New York Federal Reserve said it has asked eight investment banks to bid on risky assets from its Maiden Lane III portfolio, created during its 2008 bailout of AIG.

Speedy deal

German auto firm Audi, owned by Volkswagen, said it will buy Ducati, the Italian motorcycle maker.

Larry v. Larry

During the companies’ intellectual-property trial, Google CEO Larry Page said he didn’t remember an internal e-mail that Larry Ellison’s Oracle presented as evidence that Google knew it needed to pay for Oracle technology used in its mobile-phone software.

Reuters

Copyright 2010 Thomson Reuters. Click For Restrictions

Ehren Stenzler, New York Federal Reserve, UK affiliate, MF Global, UK, Giddens, Google

Nypost.com

Knicks center Chandler likely to make Team USA

With the announcement five days ago LaMarcus Aldridge will undergo season-ending hip injury, Knicks center Tyson Chandler has become a favorite to make the U.S. Olympic team, according to a person familiar with the situation.

Chandler was named as one of the 20 finalists for the Olympic Team named in January. Team USA has just one center on the roster, Dwight Howard, and he’s out indefinitely with a bulging disk. That also bodes well for Chandler’s presence on the club.

Chandler, who had 20 points and seven rebounds in the Knicks’ 118-110 victory over the Celtics Tuesday night at the Garden, is a candidate for the defensive player of the year award and roundly saluted for his leadership on Dallas’ NBA championship-winning team and this season’s Knicks club. Chandler also has a great supporter in former Knicks coach Mike D’Antoni, who will return as Team USA assistant.

Team USA CEO Jerry Colangelo and coach Mike Krzyzewski are evaluating the 20 players during their regular season and Chandler fits the bill in every category, especially intangibles and character. Chandler had a good showing on Team USA in the 2010 World Championships. The 12 roster members will be selected in late May.

“I feel like I have a great opportunity to play,’’ Chandler told The Post. “It all comes down to what they feel jells and fits with each other.’’

The Blazers’ Aldridge would have been the favorite as Howard’s backup, if he was healthy. Last week, it was announced he would need arthroscopic surgery to repair a slight labral tear. A surgery date has not been set, but sources said it takes two to four months to heal.

The Olympic team will assemble in Las Vegas for training camp the first week in mid-July and the Games begin in late July.

***

Mike Bibby saw extended action for the first time since January. Bibby had just three points but added six assists. Baron Davis, who interim coach Mike Woodson said was battling a stomach flu, played just 18 minutes. He didn’t have a point and had just one assist.

***

The Knicks make their last visit to New Jersey Wednesday night to face the Nets at the Prudential Center. The rivalry will heat up next season when the Nets get to Brooklyn.

Tyson Chandler, Knicks, Knicks, Team USA, Dwight Howard, LaMarcus Aldridge, Olympic team, Olympic team, Mike Krzyzewski, Jerry Colangelo, Mike Woodson

Nypost.com

Wednesday, April 18, 2012

Tex illness forces lineup shuffle

Two hours before Tuesday night’s first pitch, Mark Teixeira was scratched from the Yankees’ lineup due to flu-like symptoms.

“He has been sick a couple of days and I said, ‘Enough is enough,’ ” manager Joe Girardi said.

Asked if he would have the switch-hitting first baseman tonight, Girardi said, “I hope so. It’s my guess that not doing much [Tuesday night] will help him tremendously.’’

Girardi originally had Teixeira hitting fifth and playing first base versus Twins lefty Francisco Liriano, against whom Teixeira was batting .150 (3-for-20) with 10 strikeouts.

With Teixeira ill, Girardi juggled his lineup. Derek Jeter stayed atop the order but shifted from short to DH. Nick Swisher, who was going to DH, hit second as the first baseman.

Robinson Cano and Alex Rodriguez remained hitting third and fourth but Andruw Jones batted fifth and played right field. He originally was slated to hit seventh. Curtis Granderson was sixth, shortstop Eduardo Nunez seventh, Brett Gardner eighth and Chris Stewart ninth.

Girardi’s original thinking was that Swisher could be a candidate to play in all 13 games, a stretch that started last Friday and ends next Wednesday.

The manager said with lefties on the horizon that he will use Jeter and Rodriguez in the DH spot.

As for catcher Russell Martin, he started nine of the 10 games and appeared in the one game in which he wasn’t in the starting lineup. Backup catcher Stewart delivered two hits and a career-high three RBIs in the 8-3 win.

Gardner started for the second time against a lefty and went 2-for-2, scored twice, drove in a run and stole a base.

“We looked at his at-bats [against Liriano] and they were good at-bats, productive,’’ Girardi said of Gardner, who was 5-for-12 (.417) with a .462 on-base percentage against Liriano.

***

The winner last night, CC Sabathia, is 9-0 with a 1.93 ERA in his past 10 starts against the Twins, counting the postseason.

***

Michael Pineda could be close to progressing past throwing bullpen sessions.

“He is going to make one more bullpen and we will make a decision,’’ Girardi said of the right-hander who started the season on the disabled list with tendinitis in the back of the right shoulder. “Our hope is after the next bullpen he can get into a game, but we will have to see.’’

How many minor league starts Pineda makes is questionable. It’s not like he is starting from scratch, but it will be three weeks Friday since he worked in a game.

***

Andy Pettitte is scheduled to start for Single-A Tampa on Friday night. It will be the veteran left-hander’s third minor league outing and take him to the halfway mark of being ready to return to the big leagues.

***

Plate umpire Greg Gibson ejected Twins outfielder Denard Span and manager Ron Gardenhire from the game in the third inning and didn’t give a reason, although it was obviously over a called strike the leadoff hitter didn’t like.

“That’s between the [commissioner’s] office and the umpires,” Gibson said. “All that will go into a report that we send to the commissioner’s office. It’s something we don’t get into. That’s just policy. We’ll explain rules interpretation, but as far as an incident on the field, that’s for the office.’’

Gibson also called balks on Liriano and Sabathia.

***

Hiroki Kuroda’s gem in the home opener last Friday isn’t something he is bathing in. When Wednesday night’s starter was asked if the scoreless eight innings against the Angels in his Yankee Stadium debut made him feel more comfortable, the right-hander said the focus is on winning another game.

“It’s only one game and a win is a win but I try to do as much as possible to help the team win,’’ said Kuroda, who was familiar with the Angels hitters but has faced just two Twins — Ryan Doumit and Josh Willingham.

***

With Fenway Park celebrating its 100th anniversary and the Yankees in Boston this weekend during the celebration, Girardi was asked what his most memorable moments about New England’s living room were.

“The moment that comes into my mind has nothing to do with the Yankees and the Red Sox. It’s Carlton Fisk’s home run (in the 1975 World Series),’’ Girardi said. “That’s my most vivid memory and after that it’s Bucky Dent’s homer (in 1978).’’

***

David Phelps will be available out of the bullpen after resting since throwing 5¹/ innings of relief Saturday.

Though Phelps has been a starter in the minor leagues, he has been effective in three relief outings.

“He has the ability to be a starter because he is a four-pitch guy and the ability to get right-handers and left-handers out,’’ Girardi said.

george.king@nypost.com

Joe Girardi, Mark Teixeira, Teixeira, Twins lefty Francisco Liriano, Derek Jeter, Nick Swisher, DH, Alex Rodriguez, Girardi, Curtis Granderson, Greg Gibson, Brett Gardner, Eduardo Nunez, Chris Stewart

Nypost.com

Calder Results

FIRST-1m(T); $19,500; clm($40,000); 3YO

7

Wll to Shn (Vllnuv)

12.20

6.20

5.60

2

Great Escape (Landeros)

8.00

6.20

4

Jabez (Argueta)

10.00

Scr: Miracle At Sea.

* Exacta (7-2) $83.20 * Superfecta (7-2-4-1) $3,205.20 * Trifecta (7-2-4) $629.20

SECOND-1 1/16m; $11,000; clm($10,000); 3up

5

Aqua Jean (Nunez)

18.00

9.20

3.00

2

Sacred Class (Rios)

7.20

2.60

3

Lady Marian Louise (Gallardo)

2.20

* Daily Double (7-5) $114.40 * Exacta (5-2) $124.00 * Superfecta (5-2-3-6) $534.80 * Trifecta (5-2-3) $372.60

THIRD-5 1/2 fur; $13,500; alw; 3up(f)

3

Tktock (Rodrguez)

6.80

2.80

2.20

1

California Quck (Battula)

2.10

2.10

2

Kristina's Slew (Bernardini)

2.60

Scr: Bill's Jewell, Missy Miner.

* $1 Pick 3 (7-5-3) 3 Correct $169.60 * Exacta (3-1) $15.60 * Superfecta (3-1-2-6) $84.40 * Trifecta (3-1-2) $28.80

FOURTH-1 mile; $14,000; clm($16,000); 3up

7

Hgh Player (Garc)

6.80

4.00

2.40

1

Sin Freno (Alvarez)

4.40

2.40

3

Wife and Kid (Nunez)

2.40

* $1 Pick 4 (7-5-3-7) 4 Correct $620.30 * $1 Pick 3 (5-3-7) 3 Correct $226.60 * Exacta (7-1) $34.60 * Superfecta (7-1-3-4) $430.40 * Trifecta (7-1-3) $85.80

FIFTH-1m(T); $19,500; clm($40,000); 3YO

5

Nashr (Rodrguez)

2.80

2.20

2.10

2

Trick the Queen (Garcia)

3.00

2.10

3

French Concorde (Santana)

2.20

Scr: Cutie's Rosie, Dreamspell, Scaladora, Morediamondsplease.

* $1 Pick 3 (3-7-5) 3 Correct $35.60 * Exacta (5-2) $7.00 * Superfecta (5-2-3-1) $22.40 * Trifecta (5-2-3) $15.60

SIXTH-5 1/2 fur; $20,000; alw; 3YO

2

Ply Eghteen (Ros)

15.00

5.80

2.80

3

Dark Bay (Saez)

3.20

2.10

1

Martini Madness (Nunez)

2.10

Scr: Bea Top Quality, Soy Yo, Tiglon, Sheik Polis.. P., Storm Clouds Ahead

* $1 Pick 3 (7-5-2) 3 Correct $31.90 * Exacta (2-3) $38.40 * Superfecta (2-3-1-5) $192.20 * Trifecta (2-3-1) $85.40

SEVENTH-6 fur; $28,000; alw; 3YO

8

Scaramgn (Trujllo)

3.20

2.20

2.40

1

Our Mr. Bud (Rios)

3.40

3.00

7

Bob's Place (Jurado)

6.60

* $1 Pick 3 (5-2-8) 3 Correct $29.10 * Exacta (8-1) $12.00 * Superfecta (8-1-7-2) $1,293.80 * Trifecta (8-1-7) $126.00

EIGHTH-1 1/8m(T); $28,000; alw; 3up(f)

9

Starship Jod (Jara)

4.80

3.40

2.40

2

Michelle's Trip (Saez)

3.40

2.20

4

Gob Smacked (Bocachica)

2.10

Scr: Miss Muffin, Alluring Power, Witch's Orchard.

* $1 Pick 3 (2-8-9) 3 Correct $88.10 * Exacta (9-2) $17.00 * Superfecta (9-2-4-8) $124.20 * Trifecta (9-2-4) $26.80

Trifecta picked by Vic C.

NINTH-1 mile; $10,500; clm($5,000); 3up

2

Star Plyer (Berros)

3.20

2.20

2.20

1

Run Smart One (Delgdo)

5.60

5.60

8

Doc Green (Boraco)

6.00

* $0.5 Pick 5 (5-2-8-1/3/5/9-2) 5 Correct $83.60 * $1 Pick 4 (2-8-1/3/5/9-2) 4 Correct $86.10 * $1 Pick 3 (8-9-2) 3 Correct $8.80 * Trifecta (2-1-8) $306.80 * Superfecta (2-1-8-6) $1,467.20 * Daily Double (9-2) $10.80 * Exacta (2-1) $13.80

Double and Exacta picked by Vic C.

Trifecta, Superfecta, Superfecta, ebook download

Nypost.com

Tuesday, April 17, 2012

Stoudemire eyes return to Knicks on Friday

Amar’e Stoudemire loves the atmosphere across the Hudson River when the Knicks play the Nets at Prudential Center. He loves that a Knicks-Nets game in Newark feels like a home game away from home.

And though he has eyed the Knicks’ last-ever visit to New Jersey tomorrow as his big return from a bulging disk, the Knicks believe having him back in Cleveland on Friday is more realistic.

Stoudemire has had two contact scrimmages, but yesterday’s practice was canceled because the club was beaten up further with Tyson Chandler’s knee injury. That hasn’t helped Stoudemire get into game shape. he will miss his 12th straight game tonight when the Knicks host the Celtics.

With the Knicks less than two weeks from the playoffs, this is the second straight year Stoudemire will be less than 100 percent in the postseason because of back woes and he still hasn’t figured out how to play with Carmelo Anthony. Stoudemire has taken a vow of silence during his rehab.

On WFAN yesterday, Anthony rehashed his happiness with Mike D’Antoni’s resignation that led to Mike Woodson taking over.

“It was a new start for me, a new start for the team, a new start for the Knicks when Coach Woodson came on,” Anthony said. “The most important thing is he held me accountable for everything. It was a lot more responsibility that I had to take on and I was willing to do that. When Coach Woodson took over the job he sat down in front of everybody and I was the one he pointed to and said my responsibilities had to grow. I accepted the challenge.”

Jeremy Lin is a finalist for the NBA Sportsmanship Award. Lin was chosen along with Cleveland’s Antawn Jamison, Dallas’ Jason Kidd, the Clippers’ Chris Paul, Miami’s Shane Battier and Minnesota’s Luke Ridnour. The NBA will announce the winner after the regular season. Lin was selected for the amazing grace with which he handled his sudden global fame that began in early February when he became the Knicks’ starting point guard. Lin also could be considered for Most Improved Player Award but no longer is a shoo-in because he has played just 35 games and may not return following knee surgery two weeks ago. Lin had stitches taken out of his knee a few days ago but hasn’t begun running, and no longer believes he can beat the six-week timetable initally set for his return.

Chandler, who injured his knee in a collision with the Heat’s Joel Anthony and hobbled around in the fourth quarter, won’t be on the injury

report for tonight’s Celtics game. He underwent treatment yesterday and is a go. Chandler, though he didn’t make the All-Star team, is a candidate for Defensive Player of the Year, first-team All Defense and one of the three All-NBA teams at center ... Anthony said yesterday rookie Iman Shumpert should contend for an All-Defense selection. “I think Shump deserves All-Defensive team this year,’’ Anthony said. “What he’s been able to do, matching up with the other teams’ best player, shutting them down. As a rookie you rarely see that — a rookie making an impact on the game other than scoring the basketball.’’

Knicks, Carmelo Anthony, Mike Woodson, Stoudemire, Jeremy Lin, Prudential Center, Tyson Chandler, tonight’s Celtics

Nypost.com

Kenyan Korir wins Boston Marathon

BOSTON – Kenyan Wesley Korir overcame high temperatures Monday to win the 116th Boston Marathon with an unofficial time of 2:12:41.

Last year's winner and race record holder Geoffrey Mutai dropped out just before the 19-mile mark of the 26.2-mile race due to cramping.

Kenyan Sharon Cherop took the women's title with an unofficial time of 2:31:49.

The men's race saw the top three spots awarded to Kenyan runners with Levy Matebo and Bernard Kipyego finishing second and third, respectively.

American Jason Hartman came in fourth.

Monday's forecast, with temperatures in the 80s, prompted race officials to issue warnings to the 27,000 registered participants ahead of the historic race.

More than 4,000 runners opted to skip the race, while several others dropped out as temperatures soared, WBZ-TV reported.

Geoffrey Mutai, Wesley Korir, Sharon Cherop, Kenyan runners, Bernard Kipyego, Boston Marathon, Levy Matebo, Jason Hartman, high temperatures, race record holder

Nypost.com

Monday, April 16, 2012

Kenyan Korir wins Boston Marathon

BOSTON – Kenyan Wesley Korir overcame high temperatures Monday to win the 116th Boston Marathon with an unofficial time of 2:12:41.

Last year's winner and race record holder Geoffrey Mutai dropped out just before the 19-mile mark of the 26.2-mile race due to cramping.

Kenyan Sharon Cherop took the women's title with an unofficial time of 2:31:49.

The men's race saw the top three spots awarded to Kenyan runners with Levy Matebo and Bernard Kipyego finishing second and third, respectively.

American Jason Hartman came in fourth.

Monday's forecast, with temperatures in the 80s, prompted race officials to issue warnings to the 27,000 registered participants ahead of the historic race.

More than 4,000 runners opted to skip the race, while several others dropped out as temperatures soared, WBZ-TV reported.

Geoffrey Mutai, Wesley Korir, Sharon Cherop, Kenyan runners, Bernard Kipyego, Boston Marathon, Levy Matebo, Jason Hartman, high temperatures, race record holder

Nypost.com

Vets’ resumes lost in translation

A recent poll of employers suggests that military hiring is on the rise — but also that a gap persists when it comes to civilian employers’ ability to decode the jargon on military resumes and/or job-seeking veterans’ ability to communicate their skills and experience effectively.

More than three-quarters of human resources professionals in the poll — conducted by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) — said a skills map that translates military job skills into civilian job skills would help “a lot” or “somewhat” as they review resumes and job applications.

The poll also found that human resources managers who were interested in hiring veterans were not always clear on how to connect with them. Only 13 percent of those polled said their organization is “very aware” of effective resources for finding veteran candidates, while 35 percent said their organization is “not at all aware.”

“Human resource managers are keen to hire military veterans but they don’t know how to find them and once they find them, they may not understand the military skills jargon on the resume,” said Mark Schmit, vice president of research at SHRM.

The good news: Sixty-four percent of those polled said they’d hired military veterans during the past 36 months, up from the 53 percent who said likewise in 2010.

Society for Human Resource Management, military veterans, SHRM, civilian employers, human resources, skills, military job skills, resumes

Nypost.com

Sunday, April 15, 2012

Tomorrow’s Parx Entries

All Horses appear in post position order

FIRST-7 fur; $22,000; clm($7,500); 4up

PN Horse, Wt.

Jockey

Last 3

Trainer

Odds

1 One FrenchKiss(L),118

A Arroyo

2-5-3

DeSancts

7-2

2 Deputy Notice(L),111

LVillanuev

4-3-1

Guerrero

3-1

3 Son of Posse(L),118

J Nguyen

7-5-4

Scanlan

10-1

4 Captain Twitch(L),118

J Torres

7-5-4

Carango

15-1

5 Kiwi Humor(L),111

A Suarez

2-2-11

Montoya

2-1

6 SoWe'reFriends(L),113

K Pellot

8-5-5

McBrey

15-1

7 Wet 'n Wild Cat(L),118

R Bracho

4-4-6

Brennan

5-1

SECOND-1m&70yds; $20,000; clm($5,000); 4up

PN Horse, Wt.

Jockey

Last 3

Trainer

Odds

1 a-One Shot(L),122

A Castillo

3-3-4

Aristone

8-5

2 Bagoga ,122

FPnnngtn

5-2-6

Gaudet

7-2

3 Macho Star(L),122

S Elliott

2-2-3

Nunley

5-2

4 Active Trader(L),115

A Suarez

9-7-4

Velzqez

20-1

5 Menifee Six(L),122

J Santiago

3-5-6

Lake

6-1

6 Bird's I D(L),122

R Moya

8-6-3

Bedard

15-1

1 a-Tap Tap I Win(L),122

J Flores

4-5-3

Aristone

8-5

7 FlirtatiousSmile(L),122

J Bisono

6-6-4

Sleeter

15-1

8 Top of theTown(L),122

C Orm

8-6-9

Mourar

20-1

THIRD-5 1/2 fur; $17,000; clm($10,000); 3YO

PN Horse, Wt.

Jockey

Last 3

Trainer

Odds

1 Wink's Wish(L),121

A Castillo

2-7-8

Lake

5-1

2 CongressinlGrl(L),114

C Esquilin

8-10-8

Kissoon

30-1

3 Hello Dalai(L),121

A Arroyo

4-4-6

Pregman

6-1

4 BrushCreekHny(L),121

FPnnngtn

3-3-2

Swentks

4-1

5 Miss Blue Nitro(L),121

E Rivera

4-4-x

Jenkins

5-2

6 Hey Lulu(M),121

KMcMngll

6-5-x

McBride

20-1

7 Our Pal(L),114

A Suarez

4-2-2

Reese

3-1

8 Inner Joy(L),121

J Acksel

5-7-7

Sofio

30-1

9 Congressinlbst(L),121

K Pellot

8-9-x

Maria

20-1

FOURTH-7 fur; $24,000; clm($10,000); 4up

PN Horse, Wt.

Jockey

Last 3

Trainer

Odds

1 CasanovaBrwn(L),113

K Pellot

6-4-6

Estrada

8-1

2 ChiefThundrcld(L),118

J Bisono

7-6-1

Tzortzaks

7-2

3 Coral Key(L),114

A Arroyo

3-6-2

Nunn

12-1

4 Don's Honour(L),111

A Suarez

4-5-3

Reid

2-1

5 Quite anHonour(L),118

A Castillo

3-7-7

Velzqez

12-1

6 Yes Yes Ohyes(L),120

E Rivera

1-3-6

Maria

12-1

7 Buzzards Roost(L),116

PHrnndzO

1-5-4

Aro

8-1

8 City Genius(L),118

R Chiappe

3-7-2

Serey

6-1

9 Minute(L),118

V Molina

4-4-4

Conrad

5-1

FIFTH-6 fur; $24,000; clm($12,500); 4up

PN Horse, Wt.

Jockey

Last 3

Trainer

Odds

1 Rhyad(L),122

J Nguyen

1-3-1

Aristone

7-2

2 Rusty Charlie(L),122

S Elliott

2-1-6

Lake

5-2

3 D' Wild Affair(L),122

J Flores

1-5-5

Lake

8-1

4 Liger(L),118

A Castillo

2-4-1

Aristone

12-1

5 Mr.Windjammr(L),122

J Burke

5-5-8

Auwrter

10-1

6 Strategic Move(L),122

FPnnngtn

3-6-5

S Klesaris

4-1

7 House Arrest(L),122

E Jurado

7-7-3

Nunez

20-1

8 Raybern's Gold(L),122

KCarmoch

3-1-3

Pino

5-1

9 BlametheJocky(L),111

C Esquilin

2-3-3

Michels

10-1

SIXTH-1m&70yds; $34,000; clm($40,000); 3YO

PN Horse, Wt.

Jockey

Last 3

Trainer

Odds

1 Shoeless Joe(L),117

RMontanz

3-3-4

Hedus

3-1

2 Senor Chili(L),117

PHrnndzO

10-5-6

Wlhel-S

60-1

3 Bob Got Loaded(L),121

FPnnngtn

2-5-x

RPreciad

2-1

4 Second and Ten(L),121

CMarqzJr

10-4-x

Goldberg

4-1

5 Edge of Glory(L),121

A Arroyo

4-11-3

Shuman

8-1

6 MakerofthCrwn(L),121

M Rispoli

6-12-5

Rispoli

15-1

7 Diversification(L),121

F Garcia

5-5-7

Komlo

15-1

8 PowersOfthCrt(L),121

KCarmoch

6-x-x

Trombett

6-1

SEVENTH-6 fur; $23,000; clm($7,500); 4up

PN Horse, Wt.

Jockey

Last 3

Trainer

Odds

1 Certifiable(L),118

PHrnndzO

6-6-8

Miller

20-1

2 Vitedecreto(L),118

O Castillo

5-2-2

Swentks

15-1

3 Beaureal(L),118

J Flores

3-2-2

GPreciad

5-2

4 Couldbeghstrdr(L),118

S Elliott

5-5-6

Beattie

4-1

5 Noah's Dream(L),118

J Santiago

2-2-6

Gaudet

8-1

6 Bibblesman(L),120

R Moya

1-11-9

Reid

6-1

7 Calvin's Dream(L),118

J Bisono

4-7-4

Wyner

12-1

8 Swashbuckler(L),111

ABowman

4-2-3

Carter

15-1

9 Grandstander(L),118

E Rivera

3-6-8

Serey

20-1

10 Soupa Mon(L),118

RMontanz

2-4-1

Orseno

12-1

11 SecondthtEmtn(L),120

A Arroyo

1-3-3

GPreciad

9-2

12 Stake Out(L),118

KMcMngll

9-3-3

Montoy

20-1

EIGHTH-1m&70yds; $25,000; alw; 4up

PN Horse, Wt.

Jockey

Last 3

Trainer

Odds

1 Oasis ofChance(L),112

K Pellot

3-3-3

Wodhse

10-1

2 Lewahdizaniwh(L),117

JHmpshrJr

5-2-9

Dandy

6-1

3 Indian Eddie(L),117

RMontanz

3-2-1

RPreciad

5-2

4 Oneinthedark(L),117

J Tunon

3-7-1

Kreiser

10-1

5 Drop It Now(L),122

RMontrry

1-4-3

Barr

12-1

6 Aisle Be Patient(L),117

J Ramirez

4-3-3

Stites

8-1

7 I'm Broke(L),117

LBelmont

2-4-8

Ryerson

7-2

8 Valentinos Gold(L),122

A Arroyo

1-2-5

Serey

5-1

NINTH-6 fur; $30,000; alw; 3up(f)

PN Horse, Wt.

Jockey

Last 3

Trainer

Odds

1 DearlyConcrnd(L),118

RMontanz

9-2-2

Glorioso

2-1

2 WestCoastLady(L),112

A Arroyo

8-4-8

Moya

10-1

3 Road Trip(L),122

A Castillo

1-2-2

Aristone

8-1

4 PrincessMedor(L),112

J Bisono

5-1-4

Trombett

6-1

5 DancingCmpss(L),118

J Flores

1-4-6

GPreciad

4-1

6 Dani's Storm(L),116

L Hiraldo

1-x-x

Soto

10-1

7 Overnight Fling(L),118

O Castillo

6-10-5

Nunez

15-1

8 Truc's Love(L),118

KCarmoch

2-5-4

Capuano

7-2

TENTH-5 1/2 fur; $28,000; clm($25,000); 3,4&5YO

PN Horse, Wt.

Jockey

Last 3

Trainer

Odds

2 Fire Wise(L),109

A Suarez

2-5-2

Dotolo

5-1

3 Chasemyblswy(L),116

R Rosado

2-5-2

Estrada

10-1

1 a-City Kiss(L),116

FPnnngtn

7-5-x

A Dutrow

9-5

4 Ava Again(L),122

J Flores

3-4-4

Albertran

4-1

5 Debrief(L),114

A Castillo

5-8-x

Le Vine

20-1

6 Lit'l Edna(L),122

T Carter

7-8-6

Thomas

30-1

1 a-Starr Gate(L),116

S Elliott

3-2-2

A Dutrow

9-5

7 Saanti ,122

A Castillo

10-x-x

DJohnsn

15-1

8 Mignonne(L),116

C Orm

6-x-x

Aro

20-1

9 Fuming(L),116

J Bisono

3-3-x

Guerrero

3-1

10 NoMoreBubbles(L),122

KMcMngll

x-x-x

McBride

15-1

4upPN Horse, 4upPN Horse, 4upPN Horse, Horse, Horse ebook download, Horse, clm, clm, clm

Nypost.com

‘Tax battlers’ fighting — for your cash

They’re the surest thing after death and taxes — those pesky ads from tax lawyers and accountants that flood TV and radio every year at this time.

You know the ones. They claim to offer unique services to battle the IRS and to be able to cut your out-sized tax bill by tens of thousands of dollars.

Well, you should avoid them like a third piece of pie. They are a waste of money, local accountants claim.

“I believe that those who advertise that they can get you a special deal with the IRS are misleading their prospective clients and fraudulently advertising their services,” said Kenneth Morris, a Long Island CPA, who claims these professionals offer no special powers.

“These lawyers can’t get you any special deals with the IRS. They often take your money and you still have the problem,” warns Bernard Kiely, a CPA in Morristown, NJ.

Kiely cites Roni Deutsch, the so-called “Tax Lady” of late night television who offered to “get in between you and the IRS.” Her California law firm declared bankruptcy last year after state authorities charged she resolved only 10 percent of her clients’ tax problems.

“The facts of each particular situation are the facts, and no lawyer or others can change or dance around the facts,” Morris says.

Kiely’s advice for those who believe they have tax woes: Help yourself and avoid the lawyer’s steep fees. Deal directly and honestly with the IRS. It will save you money.

No, really.

“The IRS has the power to waive penalties, and I have seen them do it,” Kiely says. Morris agrees with Kiely that the taxing authorities will negotiate.

“Believe it or not, the IRS, or Treasury Department, is run like a business and is willing to make compromises on tax liabilities due from taxpayers. It will do whatever it takes at the least amount of cost to them to collect as much of the tax liability due from a taxpayer in the least amount of time,” Morris says.

But if you or your spouse have neglected to file taxes in years, make peace with the IRS, Kiely says. Don’t let the IRS come looking for you.

Edward Karl, vice president with American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), says taxpayers should take several steps before contacting the IRS — including, perhaps, hiring legal counsel or a financial adviser.

“Don’t choose based on emotion. See if you can find someone who has a reputation as a trusted adviser and maybe is recommended by a friend or relative,” Karl says. Then examine the person’s record. Ensure that the adviser does have years of experience in resolving disputes with the IRS.

Also, establish at the outset the range of the adviser’s fees. “It doesn’t make sense to pay $10,000 to someone when you already have a $10,000 bill to the IRS,” Karl says.

Kenneth Morris, Bernard Kiely, Roni Deutsch, tax lawyers, American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, taxes, Kiely

Nypost.com

Saturday, April 14, 2012

Santa Anita Results

FIRST-6 1/2 fur; $56,000; mdn; 4up

1

Octane (Talamo)

9.20

5.00

2.20

4

Sequoia Warrior (Garcia)

7.00

3.00

2

Royal Meridian (Flores)

2.10

* $1 Exacta (1-4) $30.60 * $1 Superfecta (1-4-2-6) $270.20 * $1 Trifecta (1-4-2) $31.00

SECOND-6 fur; $32,000; clm($25,000); 4up

1

Itssltrynthcp (Sthrlnd)

8.40

4.60

2.80

2

Drift King (Pedroza)

5.00

3.00

5

Position A (Flores)

2.40

* Daily Double (1-1) $47.80 * $1 Exacta (1-2) $15.00 * $1 Trifecta (1-2-5) $35.10

THIRD-6 1/2 fur(T); $26,000; clm($25,0); 3up

6

Pltnum Mn (Flors)

8.00

4.20

2.60

7

Three Cuties (Krigger)

4.40

3.00

2

Elusive Spirit (Talamo)

3.00

* $1 Pick 3 (1-1-6) 3 Correct $143.20 * Daily Double (1-6) $34.40 * $1 Exacta (6-7) $11.80 * $1 Superfecta (6-7-2-1) $83.50 * $1 Trifecta (6-7-2) $43.40

Winner picked by Vic C

FOURTH-6 fur; $32,000; clm($25,000); 3YO

5

Bckwds Bll (Pdrz)

3.60

2.80

2.10

3

I Sense Your Luck (Garc)

3.20

2.20

1

Warren's Morgan (Talamo)

2.40

* $1 Pick 3 (1-6-5) 3 Correct $47.80 * Daily Double (6-5) $19.00 * $1 Exacta (5-3) $4.20 * $1 Superfecta (5-3-1-4) $44.00 * $1 Trifecta (5-3-1) $9.10

Double picked by Vic C

FIFTH-1m(T); $35,000; clm($75,000); 3YO

7

Lt Nght Sky (Qnnz)

3.20

2.40

2.20

1

Craqui (Gutierrez)

4.00

3.00

9

Tommy's Kid (Krigger)

3.60

* $0.5 Pick 5 (1-1-6-5-7) 5 Correct $397.05 * $0.5 Pick 4 (1-6-5-7) 4 Correct $42.95 * $1 Pick 3 (6-5-7) 3 Correct $19.00 * $1 Trifecta (7-1-9) $32.70 * $1 Superfecta (7-1-9-3) $152.10 * Daily Double (5-7) $6.40 * $1 Exacta (7-1) $8.40

Pick Three picked by Vic C

SIXTH- 5 1/2 fur; $19,000; cl; 4up; F&M

6

Bg Tsmms (Pdroz)

3.60

2.60

2.20

1

Si Mar's Dear (Quinonez)

7.00

4.40

5

Roulette It Roll (Krigger)

5.40

* $1 Pick 3 (5-7-6) 3 Correct $7.10 * Daily Double (7-6) $5.60 * $1 Exacta (6-1) $7.40 * $1 Superfecta (6-1-5-2) $245.60 * $1 Trifecta (6-1-5) $67.70

SEVENTH-1m; $58,000; alw opt cl; 3YO

2

Achilles (Talamo)

3.20

2.80

2.10

4

War Politcs (Maldonado)

6.20

3.00

3

Press Baron (Valdivia,Jr.)

3.00

Scr: Brigand.

* $1 Pick 3 (7-6-2) 3 Correct $4.60 * Daily Double (6-2) $6.00 * $1 Exacta (2-4) $8.20 * $1 Superfecta (2-4-3-1) $58.80 * $1 Trifecta (2-4-3) $34.90

Winner picked by Vic C

EIGHTH-5 fur; $23,000; mdn cl; 3YO

6

Run for Mls (Flors)

10.80

4.80

3.60

5

Hidden Quest (Krigger)

8.60

6.80

4

Dr. Nip (Vergara)

7.00

* Pick 6 (6-5-7-6-2/5-6) 6 Correct $241.40, 5 Correct $9.20 * $0.5 Pick 4 (7-6-2/5-6) 4 Correct $16.35 * $1 Pick 3 (6-2-6) 3 Correct $21.60 * Daily Double (2-6) $16.60 * $1 Exacta (6-5) $54.80 * $1 Superfecta (6-5-4-1) $1,922.10 * $1 Trifecta (6-5-4) $419.20

Attendance: 3,609

Handle: $741,384

Total Handle: $5,510,592

Trifecta, Daily Double ebook download, fur, fur

Nypost.com

Gerry good: Gonzalez one-hits Tottenville, Grand Street heads to Monroe final

As the rain poured down on the field and the ball missed Anthony Capo’s bat, Gerry Gonzalez pumped his fist and yelled to celebrate.

The Grand Street Campus senior returned to the dugout for the top of the seventh inning, told his teammates this was his game and to get him just one run to unlock the tie with a Tottenville team he didn’t get to face in last year’s postseason.

It took three more outs and an extra inning, but the Wolves delivered when Santo Duran plated Ernesto Lopez with a single up the middle in the top of the eighth.

“We knew how special he was throughout the whole game,” Duran said of Gonzalez. “I think that was the only way we could repay him."

William Thomas

Grand Street's Gerry Gonzalez tossed a one-hitter against Tottenville Thursday.

Photos: Grand Street-Tottenville

Gonzalez retired the Pirates in order to complete a masterful performance and give his team an emotional, 2-1 win in the semifinals of the Monroe Tournament on Thursday. He allowed just one hit, struck out nine, walked just two and retired the last 14 batters he faced from a team that knocked Grand Street out in last year’s PSAL ‘A’ semifinal series as Gonzalez watched playing first. He did so throwing an economical 99 pitches.

“When they beat us last year it hurt,” Gonzalez said. “We had a magical run. I knew from the beginning this is what we wanted. This is who we wanted to play and I wanted the ball.”

Gonzalez, who missed last year’s semis after throwing 120 pitches against Telecommunications in the quarterfinals, led the Wolves to their second straight extra-inning win in the tournament. They scored nine runs in the ninth Wednesday to beat Monroe. Grand Street believes it shows just how hungry they are. Against Tottenville, two runs would do, as Gonzalez located his fastball and curve well.

“Their kid on the mound was the difference,” Tottenville coach Tom Tierney Jr. said.

Grand Street got on the board in the fourth when Duran doubled down the third-base line off starter Michael Sullivan. Tierney pulled him, saying he was out of gas, after shortstop Steve Notaro made a diving grab and throw to first for the second out. Reliever Joseph DiBenedetto gave up an RBI triple to Basael (Ralphy) McDonald to make it 1-0 Grand Street. Tottenville tied it at 1 on a double by John Giakas in the bottom of the inning.

“I think throwing the breaking ball over for a strike really let him dominate,” Grand Street coach Melvin Martinez said of Gonzalez.

The coach has been pleased with his pitching so far, starting with Gonzalez and Willy Santana, who failed off and didn’t play against Tottenville last year. Sophomore stud Alex Cuas will start against defending CHSAA intersectional champion Xaverian in the final 1 p.m. Friday back at Monroe. The Brooklyn schools know each other well. The Clippers have won three of the four meetings, already including one earlier in the tournament.

“I have faith in my team,” Duran said. “I believe we are going to take it.”

jstaszewski@nypost.com

Gerry Gonzalez, Tottenville, Grand Street, Santo Duran, Gonzalez, Grand Street Campus senior, the Wolves, 1-0 Grand Street. Tottenville

Nypost.com

Giants hopeful LB Rivers can make new start

Keith Rivers acknowledges he “hasn’t been able to stay on the field as much as I would like’’ and he didn’t get on the field at all in 2011, missing the entire season. Once a huge prospect at linebacker for the Bengals, he officially became a member of the Giants Thursday, and he’s looking forward to what’s ahead.

“I’ve been working really hard this offseason and it’s not about my past,’’ Rivers said. “It’s about what I’ve been doing to prepare myself for this year and I’m really excited about it. Hopefully . . . it’s a new beginning and everything is behind me and I’m ready to do it on the big stage here in New York.”

BIG HIT: Ex-Bengals linebacker Keith RIvers, crashing into Browns tight end Benjamin Watson in 2010, officirally was traded yesterday to <a href=the Giants." title="BIG HIT: Ex-Bengals linebacker Keith RIvers, crashing into Browns tight end Benjamin Watson in 2010, officirally was traded yesterday to the Giants." width="300" height="300" src="/rw/nypost/2012/04/13/sports/web_photos/13.1S061.GIANTS2--300x300.jpg" />

Reuters

BIG HIT: Ex-Bengals linebacker Keith RIvers, crashing into Browns tight end Benjamin Watson in 2010, officirally was traded yesterday to the Giants.

The stage is certainly set for Rivers, who turns 26 on May 5 — and begins a second chapter to what has been an unfulfilling NFL career. After four years in Cincinnati, he’s moved on, the Giants acquiring him for a fifth-round pick in the upcoming NFL Draft.

“Keith will definitely bring some competition to our linebacker group,’’ general manager Jerry Reese said.

It’s likely the Giants will be highly disappointed if Rivers doesn’t find a way onto the field as a starter once the summertime competition comes to an end. Rivers was the ninth pick in the 2008 NFL Draft coming out of Southern Cal, but he never lived up to that lofty draft status.

“I’m excited to get a fresh start and brand new beginning,” Rivers said. “You can’t ask for more than to be playing for the defending world champions and be in New York.”

The 6-foot-2, 235-pounder is a weakside linebacker, a spot inhabited by Michael Boley, who is coming off his best season with the Giants. Second-year players Jacquian Williams and Spencer Paysinger also play on the weak side, making it quite likely if the Giants are adamant about getting their three best linebackers on the field, Boley could be making a move inside to middle linebacker.

“This is an excellent opportunity for him to have a fresh start,” coach Tom Coughlin said. “Keith is versatile enough to play the outside on first and second down and he can play on third down because he runs well. And he’s fast enough to rush the passer.”

The Giants have two selections in the fourth round of the draft, making it easier for them to part with a fifth-round selection — the 167th overall pick. It’s not much of a gamble for a player who did not play in 2011 following wrist surgery last July.

The Giants held their annual local prospect workout prior to the NFL Draft on Thursday. A day earlier, the Giants got a jump on the action, bringing in Rutgers receiver Mohamed Sanu for a private workout. Throwing to Sanu was Matt Simms, son of former Giants quarterback Phil Simms. Matt Simms, who played sparingly last season at Tennessee, is not expected to be drafted.

paul.schwartz@nypost.com

Exclusive Super Bowl merchandise featuring New York Post front pages

Keith Rivers, NFL, the Giants, Giants, Matt Simms, linebacker, NFL Draft, Bengals

Nypost.com

Friday, April 13, 2012

LaSalle's Shammgod Wells ponders post-high school future

With the score tied, Shammgod Wells crossed the halfcourt line with 45 seconds left in the game. Without a shot clock and the ball in his hand, he was determined to take the final shot despite the large amount of time left – and he wouldn’t have it any other way.

“After losing yesterday, I wanted to win even more today,” Wells said. “I didn’t care how much time was left. I wanted to take the last shot and I couldn’t leave the ball in their hands at the end. That’s how I am.”

Wells stood a step inside half court and methodically dribbled the ball for 40 seconds, pondering his attempt at a game-winning shot. The clock ticked down to five seconds and he made his move, driving right off a pick and attempting an acrobatic layup in the paint in the face of a defender. In what may have been his final shot in his successful New York City high school basketball career, the ball teased the rim, rolling around the iron before eventually falling off the front.

Lauren Marsh

LaSalle's Shammgod Wells, who played in the Wheelchair Charities HS Basketball Classic on Wednesday, has a number of options for next year.

Failing is not the ideal way to end a chapter of your life, but Wells doesn’t see it that way. To him, failure can be a positive. It gives him a specific blueprint of how to build his game up to where he wants it to be.

“Every game is a learning experience for me, even this kind of game,” he said. “I just have to get into the gym tomorrow and practice the shot I missed all day until I don’t miss it again.”

Luckily for Wells, teammate Jason Murray was able to catch the rebound in mid-air and slam it home with one second left, giving Manhattan an 82-80 comeback victory over The Bronx in the consolation game of the 38th annual Wheelchair Charities HS Basketball Classic on Wednesday at York College. Playing against some of the best players the city has to offer, Wells scored 15 points, good for second most in the game as Fairfield Prep star Terry Tarpey finished with 19.

Wells may be undersized and not as highly recruited by top college programs when compared to his teammates and opponents alike at the Classic, but he believes there’s no better way to showcase his game then to play alongside the best.

“Playing against guys like [Christ the King star] Omar Calhoun and other big names makes me even hungrier to win, to beat them,” said Wells, whose father God Shammgod was an NYC star who played at Providence and then the NBA. “It makes me work harder as a player. I want people to remember my name and to say ‘Shammgod beat those guys; maybe he is on their level.”

“A lot of people told me I wasn’t one of the best point guards in the ‘A’ division because New York City is all guards and there’s too many of them to compete with,” he added. “But I feel like I stood out this year. I led my team in steals, assists and I was up there in points. I see myself as the best point guard in the city and I’m excited to take it to the next level.”

Where the next level will be is something of a question mark for Wells at the moment, though. He’s received interest from colleges like Temple and Assumption as well as prep schools in the region, and he plans to stay on the East Coast in order to stay close to his family. But Wells is not planning to be picky when it comes to choosing a school and when he does make his decision, he will only have one thing in mind and that’s to do what he does best, to continue a career of leadership, clutch moments, and impeccable talent on the basketball court.

“I have a visit soon with Clark University in Atlanta, but my college choice is wide open at the moment. I’m just looking for somewhere I can play and get better,” Wells said. “Whether it’s on defense, scoring the ball, or passing, I just want to contribute in any way possible in college. Any school would be good for me.”

Shammgod Wells, God Shammgod, New York City, New York City, final shot, ebook download

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Thursday, April 12, 2012

Senators power play big test for Rangers

The Rangers lost three of four regular-season games against the Senators, and a major reason why can directly be attributed to Ottawa forwards Jason Spezza, Milan Michalek and Daniel Alfredsson. The trio of All-Stars, who don’t all play on the top line regularly (Spezza and Michalek on the top line, Alfredsson on the second line), make up the Senators first power-play unit, and accounted for eight goals and four assists against the Rangers this season.

Seemingly ubiquitous on the ice, they combined for 96 goals and 107 assists this year. Ottawa’s 249 goals as a team were tied for fourth-most in the league, which should make the first-round Stanley Cup playoff matchup interesting because the Rangers’ 187 goals allowed were the third-fewest.

“I think especially playing a team that their top guys are really skilled, it is important that we play [them] really tough and hard and don’t give them too much room,” Rangers goalie Henrik Lundqvist said. “They’ve been good all year, and we are expecting them to be a great challenge for us in this series.”

Though Lundqvist will be responsible for stopping their shots when the series begins Thursday night at Madison Square Garden, it is up to the Rangers defense to keep Spezza, Michalek and Alfredsson in check.

“They are just really opportunistic,” said Ryan McDonagh, who along with Dan Girardi will play most against the Senators’ top line. “It takes one play and you can find the puck in the back of your net.

“[You] can be going about the game feeling good, going strong. And all of a sudden you don’t get a puck out or one gets away from you and they pick up the pass and it ends up in the back of your net,” McDonagh said. “So we have to be really mentally sharp throughout the whole game and every game of the series to try and keep their chances down.”

Marc Staal, who forms the Rangers’ second defensive pairing with Michael Del Zotto, said Spezza’s strength is creating chances for himself and his teammates.

“[Spezza] is a good player,” Staal said. “He is talented, he knows how to make plays and put the puck in the net. I think as a team, the five guys that are on the ice need to be aware of where he is and make sure you are paying attention in your own zone, not giving him too much room.”

The Rangers know they also will have their hands full with the Senators’ defenders, who are not only speedy, but can score as well. Ottawa had three defensemen who registered 30 or more points, led by Norris Trophy candidate Erik Karlsson, who had 19 goals and tied for 10th in the NHL with 79 points.

“They like to join the rush and offense is created form them jumping in and making plays, so our backcheck is going to be important against that,” Staal said. “Making sure that our fourth and fifth guys are back, clogging up the middle of the ice so they don’t get a chance to make those kind of plays.”

david.satriano@nypost.com

Jason Spezza ebook download, Daniel Alfredsson, Alfredsson, Milan Michalek, Rangers, Ottawa, Ottawa, Senators, Henrik Lundqvist, Marc Staal, Michael Del Zotto, Ryan McDonagh

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Wednesday, April 11, 2012

CHSAA/Private baseball roundup: Spitzbarth strikes out 15 for Moore

Shea Spitzbarth wasn’t supposed to be Moore Catholic’s ace this season. It seems like he’s become accustomed to the role anyway.

The senior righthander gave up three earned runs on five hits and struck out 15 to lead Moore to a 10-4 win over St. Raymond in the Mavericks’ CHSAA Class AA opener Tuesday morning on Staten Island.

Spitzbarth also went 2-for-3 with two RBIs and Chris Goetz was 2-for-4 with two RBIs and two runs scored for Moore (1-0). Josh Vargas was 2-for-3 with a run scored for St. Ray’s (0-2).

Xavier 12, Mount St. Michael 0: J.P. Ramirez was 2-for-3 with three RBIs and Cody Mangano cracked a three-run triple for Xavier (1-1) in a five-inning run-rule victory. Nick DiLeo had a two-RBI triple and blanked Mount (0-2) over three innings, throwing just 30 pitches. He’ll come back and start Friday against Archbishop Stepinac. Frank Arigo worked the final two scoreless innings.

ACIS

Berkeley Carroll 9, Staten Island Academy 3: Yanai Feldman had two hits and three RBIs, Rob Graham and Richie Palacios each scored twice, Anthony Spina notched two hits, an RBI and a run scored and Chris Baumann fanned six for the win for Berkeley Carroll (6-0, 2-0), which hosts Collegiate Thursday at 4:30 p.m. Staten Island Academy is 0-1 in league.

OTHER SCORES

Cardinal Hayes 16, Mount St. Michael 15

Cardinal Hayes 13, Salesian 0

zbraziller@nypost.com

mraimondi@nypost.com

Mount St. Michael, Chris Goetz, Staten Island Academy, Frank Arigo, Moore, St. Ray’s, Cody Mangano, Josh Vargas, St. Raymond, J.P. Ramirez

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