LAURA EMBRY / Union-Tribune Long jumper Bashir Ramsey continues to train and to dream of gold at the U.S. Olympic Training Center.

BEIJING 2008:
29TH SUMMER OLYMPICS

The running track is mostly empty. Same with the weight room. No one is rounding the bases on the softball field or swinging sticks in the field hockey area. Most of the athletes who train at the U.S. Olympic Training Center in Chula Vista are in Beijing, competing in the world's most glamorous sporting event.

TBLISI, Georgia – The United States pressed yesterday for the immediate withdrawal of Russian forces in Georgia, as Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice came here, not far from the front lines, to win the Georgian president's approval for a redefined cease-fire. She pushed to close a loophole that Russia could use to justify its advance deep into Georgia.

Four area hospitals received the maximum fine yesterday for preventable mistakes that killed one patient, injured others or created the potential for serious harm, state officials said. California's health regulators also are reviewing three more “immediate jeopardy” incidents – those that cause death or grave injury – that may result in similar penalties.

Five years ago, British transplant Lara Matthews hosted a party in her Mission Hills backyard. It was more like a swap meet, actually, and it showcased clothes and jewelry designed by her most creative friends. So many people showed up that the next time, Matthews had to move it to an art gallery. And then to a furniture store. And the last few seasons, to Balboa Park's Aerospace Museum.

The tyranny of $4 gas ended in San Diego yesterday, as the average retail price for regular gasoline slipped to $3.99 for the first time since May.