11.  Defensive tackle Ryan Nielsen of Simi Valley Royal High (back spasms) did not practice all week but is expected to play.

12.  Defensively, he remains more than competent, although he is tied for the club lead with 10 errors, same as Gold Glove second baseman Pokey Reese.

13.  Defensively, the Bears' main concern is stopping the home run.

14.  Defensively, the nature of the game is probably a little overwhelming, but he is learning to execute.

15.  DeFeo said he is still considering potential alliances, but he is not convinced such a partnership is essential.

16.  Deputy District Attorney Julius Finkelstein, who is handling the criminal case against Avant!, said he hadn't seen the motion and couldn't comment.

17.  Deputy District Attorney Sally Thomas, who is handling the case, declined to comment on whether the men will be charged or when a decision will be reached.

18.  Deputy Mayor Matt Middlebrook said Hahn is focused on keeping the city together and on making sure the new advisory neighborhood council system is successful.

19.  Deputy NBA commissioner Russ Granik said a schedule won't be available until after the deal is reduced to writing, which may take 7-10 days.

20.  Deputy Prime Minister Zhu Rongji is widely expected to succeed Li, and is likely to climb in the new party hierarchy that is to be formally announced Friday.