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Men's basketball
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The Zips have returned from Vegas. The team got home on Christmas Eve. I'm still kicking myself for not using the tournament as an excuse to fly out there. I was so mad that I booked a trip for late February.
This is a rematch from last season when, if you remember, Humpty Hitchens nearly started a brawl, when he sprinted toward the Lions' bench after the game. He claimed afterward that he was only running over there to shake hands. It was a close game that the Zips won by three.
A-PB is 0-11, but the Lions have not played a single game at home yet. They have been outscored by an average of 24.4 points per game. They are getting killed on the boards, with a -10 average rebounding deficit.
Brian Walsh is no longer wearing the protective boot that was on his foot. The guard who transferred from Xavier is not eligible until next season.
APB is probably making a killing on all of these road games. It costs a home team anywhere between $50,000 and $150,000. Multiply that by 12 and you are easily funding your program. Plus, you can tell your recruits that they'll get a chance to travel the country the next four (or five) years and play in big-time gyms.
Akron's starters: Zeke Marshall, Alex Abreu, Nik Cvetinovic, Brett McClanahan and Steve McNees.
Abreu has led to Akron's first five points. He tipped the ball away, starting a break. Then he hit a 3.
There are a lot of LeBron James fans left in Akron. But even those folks can't deny that His Highness is showing a level of egotism rarely seen. This quote is from his Twitter this evening: "Faith in your own powers and confidence in your individual methods are essential to success"
Abreu drove into the lane and tossed the ball in the air. It took a split-second for Marshall to realize "heck, that's for me!" He grabbed on the fly and dunked it with both hands. It was a pretty play. If Abreu and Marshall can get on the same page more often, it will be a huge boost. Abreu can penetrate, but he's too short to finish in traffic. The pass, or threat of a pass, could open things up for him a little.
APB guard Savalace Townsend went to the free throw line and took a loooong time to shoot his first. The ref started to count the seconds. If he takes 10 seconds, it's a delay of game and the player loses the free throw opportunity. I really want to see that called tonight. More than anything.
After a made Quincy Diggs shot, Cvetinovic tossed the ball to the referee standing on the sideline near the ABP bench. The ref stopped play and reminded Cvetinovic of the age-old rule that you aren't supposed to touch the ball after a made shot. It's a delay-of-game warning in the NBA.
On the same play, two Zips got banged up. Abreu got tangled up while playing defense on the ball. He went down, winced, and slowly got up, holding his hip. Diggs went to the bench, shaking his right wrist, which has been in a brace for the past couple weeks.
Townsend went to the line again. The ref only made it to a seven-count before the Lions guard hoisted the free throw.
Attendance is only so-so tonight, but I'll contend it's better than prior years during winter break against a nonconference foe. Usually, these games are barren, but there are a lot of folks in the bleachers. Heck, even Rob Ianello is here.
With a Townsend 3, APB cut Akron's lead to two. It was 12 at one point. The Lions have made 5-of-11 3-point attempts and all six free throw shots. APB has had too many uncontested 3 attempts.
As soon as I type that, Akron went on an 9-0 run to reopen a 11-point lead.
Play of the game: McNees threw the ball ahead to Cvetinovic, who spun around, got one hand on the overthrown ball and whipped it to McClanahan in the corner. As you probably assumed, McClanahan made the 3. Akron's lead is now 15.
Akron capped a high-scoring half with a McClanahan jumper from the elbow.
Halftime stats: It's 50-36. Akron shot 47.5 percent from the half. APB wasn't far behind with 41.4 percent. Akron's offense was very efficient, with 13 assists and four turnovers. Townsend has 12 points and seven rebounds. McClanahan has 15 points.
Keith Dambrot just belted out the following comment to Abreu during a time of relative silence in Rhodes Arena: "How many dumb mistakes are you gonna make?!?"
After a brutal 0-11 start to last season, APB went 14-4 in the SWAC and won the conference tournament. The Lions won the play-in game against Winthrop before taking a 73-44 beatdown by Duke, the eventual national champion.
Cvetinovic caught an elbow to the head. The refs are reviewing the video to determine whether the APB player deserves further punishment. The verdict was "no." Here is how the Washington Post breaks down the NCAA's new rule on elbow throwing:
Men's soccer
OK, fans. Here is the downside of being wicked good: You lose players early.
The Zips will need to retool their lineup sooner than thought, with five players leaving school to pursue a pro career before their NCAA eligibility expires.
The ABJ's Michael Beaven wrote about it. Click here for a helpful explanation of what the Generation adidas contract means and for Caleb Porter's thoughts on the players' decisions.
Men's basketball
I will be liveblogging during tonight's home game against Arkansas-Pine Bluff.
Men's soccer
This Q&A with coach Caleb Porter is a must-read for Akron alumni who wonder why the Zips have such a great soccer program and whether it will continue.
University of Akron junior defender Kofi Sarkodie earned the national Player of the Year by Soccer America on Friday.
Sarkodie, who helped the Zips (22-1-2) win the national championship 1-0 over Louisville in Santa Barbara, Calif. on Dec. 12, recorded a career-high eight goals and six assists in 22 matches from his outside back position. Sarkodie previously was named the 2010 ESPN Academic All-American of the Year as well as an NSCAA First Team All-American.
It is the third consecutive season a UA player has received the award from the publication. Sarkodie follows Teal Bunbury (2009) and Steve Zakuani (2008) as the only players in school history to win player of the year honors from Soccer America.
Senior midfielder Anthony Ampaipitakwong and junior striker Darlington Nagbe were also named to the Soccer America's MVP first-team with Sarkodie. UA's three honorees were the most by any school.
Ampaipitakwong is a two-time NSCAA All-American and became the school's first winner of the Lowe's Senior CLASS Award in 2010. He played in 24 matches this season, is the Zips' all-time leader for matches played (93) and finished his career with 17 goals and 30 assists.
Nagbe, who is one of three finalists for the Hermann Trophy, is also a two-time NSCAA All-American. He compiled a career-high 13 assists this season to go with seven goals while starting all 25 matches.]ep
Soccer America also named Zips midfielder Perry Kitchen and striker Darren Mattocks to its All-Freshman first-team. UA was the only school in the country to land two players on the first team.
Kitchen appeared in all 25 matches as the Zips' starting defensive midfielder. He finished with six goals and one assist.
Mattocks scored a team-high 18 goals, which was tied for the third-highest total in the nation, and had five assists in 25 matches. Mattocks finished as the second highest scoring freshman in the country to Michigan's Soony Saad, who scored 19 goals.
Men's basketball
Akron rebounded from an awful first half to make it competitive against Miami, but the Hurricanes left Las Vegas with a 69-61 win to end the tournament.
Brett McKnight scored 20, but the Zips had an 18-point hole to climb after the first half. He scored 14 straight for the Zips during a 16-0 run.
Miami center Reggie Johnson scored 21 points and grabbed 12 rebounds; his production generally kept Akron farther than an arm's length away.
Alex Abreu was named to the All-Tournament Team.
The Zips return home for a Wednesday game against Arkansas-Pine Bluff.
Ohio State suspended five players for the first five games of 2011, which includes the Zips' trip to Columbus.
Among the players suspended is star quarterback Terrelle Pryor.
Men's basketball
Akron took down Stetson today in a Las Vegas matinee.
Sharpshooting won it for the Zips, who made 14 3-pointers. Then they closed it out by making 12 consecutive free throw attempts.
It was Akron's third win in five days. And they'll return in 20 hours for the main event of the tournament. Today's game and yesterday's against Arkansas-Little Rock were simply the undercard. The Zips' biggest test is tomorrow at 3 p.m., Eastern Time, when the Zips and Miami Hurricanes face off.
Miami has played strong so far, with a 9-3 record and a win over West Virginia and narrow loss at Memphis. Miami and Akron both played Stetson. The Zips won by 15; The 'Canes won by 14.
Men's basketball
The bright lights of Las Vegas brought out the best in Zeke Marshall, who grabbed 16 rebounds to go along with 14 points.
Akron turned up an Ace in its first deal at the Las Vegas Holiday Classic, beating Arkansas-Little Rock 75-61.
Darryl Roberts scored 16 points to lead the Zips, who shot 50 percent from the field (or is it the desert?).
Akron will play Stetson tomorrow at 5:15 p.m., Eastern Time.
Men's soccer
I ran into President Luis Proenza tonight, who is still 100 percent giddy after Akron's first team national championship.
He knew the first thing he must do after the buzzer sounded was keep Caleb Porter here. As you can see below, his team put together a creative package that will deter Porter from leaving, while adequately compensating the nation's best coach.
Proenza is to be credited for rewarding success and giving Men's Soccer the priority it deserves in his administration.
Men's soccer
Akron is now taking care of its soccer coach how it should.
Starting January 1, Caleb Porter will receive an extra $100K in salary and $800 per month for a vehicle.
The new agreement provides some security to ensure Porter remains in blue and gold. Akron will pay $15,000 per year into an escrow account, which will be dumped into Porter's possession if Porter stays through February 28, 2021. Porter also must pay $200,000 if he leaves in the next three years, and $150,000 if he leaves prematurely in any year after that.
Click below to read the terms sheet, obtained by public records request. It includes other terms to help advance the program, which shows that Porter wasn't only negotiating for his own pocketbook, but also for sustained university support of the program.
Terms of Agreement with Porter 2010
According to the Record Courier's Dave Carducci, sources say Kent State will announce today that its next head football coach is Darrell Hazell, receivers coach at Ohio State.
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Men's basketball
As you might expect for a Saturday afternoon game against a MEAC school, attendance is not great. There were more people here for the preseason game. Brett McKnight is back on the roster, and he led Akron out of the locker room. Let's hope that this time he got the message.
Bethune-Cookman is led by 6-foot-3 guard C.J. Reed, the coach's son who averages 36.9 minutes and 18.6 points per game. The most imposing specimen is 6-9, 320-pound center Albert Abrahams. He is a big man. The senior plays only 12.3 minutes per game, though.
The Zips play next on Tuesday in Las Vegas against UALR. I came SO close to heading out there. If it was for a weekend tournament, I'd be booked. Unfortunately, mid-week is not good with work being so busy. Akron also will play Stetson and Miami (Fla.) in the three-day span.
A 9-year-old sung the national anthem. She was better than any adult I've heard here, and that's no insult to the adults. I mean, wow.
Akron's starters: Zeke Marshall, Alex Abreu, Nik Cvetinovic, Brett McClanahan and Steve McNees. Abreu has been starting since the road game at Detroit. This is his first home start.
B-C is a historically black college in Daytona Beach, Fla. Famous alumni include former Temple coach John Chaney.
Many of Abreu's turnovers are related to an unfamiliarity with the offense and his teammates. Often, he has tried to lead a player with a pass, and the player didn't see the pass coming.
B-C got off to a quick 9-4 lead. Akron has already committed three turnovers and is 1-for-4 from the field.
Marshall plays with great animalistic instincts on defense. On offense, he has developed a nice hook and can dunk with fury at times. But mostly, I see him as too mechanical on offense. He takes his hooks shots as if he's doing a drill. Once he's decided on a hook, he won't improvise with a dunk if it's available. If I'm the coach, I'd ask him to try to dunk the ball 10 times in a game.
Akron has turned it over five times in five minutes. Oops, make that six in six minutes. Oops, now it's seven in seven minutes.
The internet is down on campus thanks to some digging near Memorial Hall, so I'm blogging into a Microsoft Word document. Not that you really care, but these updates weren't posted contemporaneously with the game action. It does give me the chance to revise my opinions if it turns out I'm wrong. Sort of like President Obama with the Bush tax cuts.
I haven't blogged anything in 10 minutes of gametime. The reason is, this game is awfully boring. B-C has maintained between a three- and seven-point lead.
I have a conspiracy theory: The university only chooses kids who have never touched a basketball to shoot for prizes during timeouts. I understand that strategy if you're giving away a car (for insurance purposes), but not for a sandwich.
Akron is getting minimal first-half production from its guards: Abreu, McNees, Quincy Diggs and Darryl Roberts have combined for zero points.
B-C is running a seven-man rotation. I guess Akron can hope that the mighty Wildcats eventually tire.
The Teddy Bear toss happened at halftime. It's a unique experience to have dozens of teddy bears sailing over your head. Joe Dunn got drilled by one of the stuffed animals.
This is off-topic, but Jose Canseco is such a trip on Twitter. Last month, he gave out his cell phone number and invited people to call him. Then he asked for other people's numbers, so he could brighten their day. Now, he's talking about how some guy hasn't paid him, and how he wants to sue, and how he wants others to join his suit. I know a few California lawyers, but I wouldn't wish that client on my worst enemy.
After the first half, Akron trailed 30-23. We did not see McKnight, but I assume the staleness of the offense would quicken his arrival.
The refs missed a blatant over-the-back on B-C. But that's the least of Akron's worries. B-C leads a listless Zips squad, 38-24, with 16:36 left.
The trainers are stretching out McKnight in the corner of the arena. Akron needs someone to take over on offense. This is hard to watch.
In the first half, the fans sitting behind me criticized my frantic reaction to the ball heading toward my laptop. Just now, another ball started my way, and I intentionally didn't move. The referee prevented me from taking the leather in the face. I did it to prove an almost-costly point.
McKnight entered the game to a loud ovation with 15:53 left in the game. That was the loudest Akron's fans have been all day. Can this be a spark?
Akron is 8-for-17 from the foul line. Five of those misses have been from Marshall (2-of-7).
In the first play since McKnight entered, Akron stole an inbounds pass, Roberts streaked to the rim with the ball and was fouled while laying it in.
B-C is playing at a snail's pace. The Zips forced a shot-clock violation.
McKnight scored his first bucket in 36 days on a short shot that hung on the back of the rim for a long time. He followed it up on a similar shot out of the post on the next possession.
Folks are still talking about that national anthem singer. They should invite her back.
Akron is within six with the ball. B-C is employing a three-quarters court trap.
Marshall took a hook shot that was well off the mark. Before fans could even realize how badly the shot was off course, Marshall yelled, "It slipped!"
After Diggs missed an early season dunk for a lack of elevation, I have been skeptical of his athleticism. However, he just soared above the herd to clasp an offensive rebound.
Fans are beginning to become testy at the referees. Once you miss a blatant whistle like that over-the-back, it's hard to win back the fans' trust.
Abrahams (B-C's Panzer tank) just entered the game. I'm excited to see him operate. Unfortunately, Marshall is off the floor. That would be a fascinating matchup. Currently, he's guarding McKnight, which is a bad matchup for B-C.
Over the past five minutes, Akron has chipped away at B-C's lead, which is now four. But the Zips have not quite made the game-changing shot or prevented B-C from scoring a bucket here or there.
Diggs drained a much-needed 3 to bring Akron back to within four with 1:44 to play. He is playing a little more aggressively than the last I saw him. Still, I'd like to see more shooting and less dribbling with his head down.
B-C broke Akron's press and got an easy layup. Abreu responded with a 3. Akron is down three with 1:19 to go.
Akron forced a turnover when a B-C player stepped on the sideline to catch a pass.
McNees is having an awful game, 0-for-10 from the field and 0-for-7 on 3s.
McClanahan tied the game by sinking a deep, high-arching 3. B-C called timeout with 40 seconds left. There are 24 seconds left on the shot clock and 30 on the game clock.
Regardless of the outcome today, Akron will have to play a lot better in MAC season. We are watching a middle-of-the-pack MAC team.
B-C held the ball until six seconds remained on the clock. Diggs played great defense on Reed, who misfired from 12 feet. Diggs soared high for the rebound but it got poked out. The jump ball went to the Zips.
Akron will get the chance to win with 3.3 seconds left. Unlike in the NBA after a timeout, a college team must go the full length of the floor.
Cvetinovic inbounded to Marshall, who handed it off to McNees. McNees could only get to half court before having to chuck it. The shot missed off the bottom left corner of the backboard. We're going to overtime.
Marshall is worth an extra possession in overtime. He won't lose many tips.
Marshall just got away with a misdemeanor. He slung a B-C player aside in grabbing an offensive rebound. Marshall converted a reverse layup to give Akron a three-point lead.
McNees picked a good time to defrost. He splashed a 3 from the corner, giving Akron a six-point lead with three minutes left.
McClanahan made a 3-pointer on the next possession, falling backward into the Zips' bench. Akron leads by eight with 2:23 left.
Akron turned the ball over at the two-minute mark. Cvetinovic tried to drive through a triple-team trap. It didn't end well for him. It earned a foot stomp from Dambrot. Reed made a short jumper on the other end for B-C to bring Akron's lead down to five with 1:51 left.
It's clear that the turning point tonight was McKnight's entrance in the second half. The team and its fans looked hung over until then. McKnight gave the team a lift with his six points and two rebounds.
The game is now sealed, with McNees taking down a rebound, getting fouled and sinking two free throws. Akron is up nine with 30 seconds left.
Marshall punctuated the game with a reverse dunk after a breakaway pass.
Final score: Akron 77, Bethune-Cookman 66
Final stats of note: Cvetinovic led Akron with 17 points, 11 rebounds, and four rebounds. The last Zips player to have back-to-back double-doubles was Jeremiah Wood in February 2007. Akron shot 46.9 percent, compared to 41.4 percent from B-C. Alexander Starling led B-C with 19 points. The Zips finished with only 11 turnovers, after committing nine in the first half.
I can't stick around for quotes. We have a city council meeting scheduled for 5:15. I know, it doesn't make sense to me, either.
Men's soccer
Coach Caleb Porter might have one of the longest employment contracts in the nation right now.
This week, the university extended his deal into the next decade, in what is a show of commitment to the national championship-winning coach.
In coaching contracts, the university is the only party at risk. Generally, the coach can bolt tomorrow if he pleases, but the university is stuck with him if things turn south (or fire him and pay through the end of the term). Regardless, Porter's public statements provide hope that Akron is not just a career stop.
From the GoZips.com release:
The University of Akron men's soccer team is mentioned in this week's Sports Illustrated on page 35 in the "For the Record" section of the magazine.
The brief story mentions the Zips 1-0 victory over Louisville in the NCAA College Cup on Sunday in Santa Barbara, Calif. There is a photo with the story, that includes the goal by Scott Caldwell in the 79th minute and the shutout in net by goalkeeper David Meves. It is interesting to note, that they did not mention Chad Barson, who made the key save in the final minute.
The SI, dated Dec. 20, features a photo of actors Mark Wahlberg and Christian Bale on the cover. Wahlberg and Bale star in a new boxing film, The Fighter.
As many of you know by now, there are a lot of stories on the Internet about the Zips winning the national title. You can find articles by the Associated Press, the Cleveland Plain Dealer, the Canton Repository and obviously the Akron Beacon Journal.
Also, there will be more UA men's soccer videos that will appear on this blog within the next few weeks.
Men's basketball
The Zips led the nation's 20th best team by five at halftime.
Minnesota closed the gap, went on an 8-0 run and never looked back, winning 66-58.
Gophers forward Trevor Mbakwe and Akron's Nik Cvetinovic each had double-doubles. It's nearly impossible to beat a top team on the road shooting 34.9 percent like Akron did.
The Zips return home Saturday for a 2 p.m. game against Bethune-Cookman.
Men's soccer
Take a look at these photos from the national championship game that the athletic department posted.
I don't know when it will sink in that we won. Still hasn't.
Men's basketball
Akron will play another tough road game Wednesday against Minnesota.
The game will be aired at 8:30 p.m. on the Big Ten Network.
Without senior point guard Al Nolen (stress fracture), the Gophers have struggled to play perimeter defense. But the Zips have shot 33.6 percent in their last two games.
Here is CBSSports.com's preview. Akron is a 15-point underdog. (I'd take the Gophers with that stingy line.)
Men's soccer
There are 179 stories on Google News as of 8 a.m. regarding Akron's national championship. Here are a few to read:
-- The ABJ's Michael Beaven describes the atmosphere at the Barley House. -- The ABJ's Marla Ridenour writes about Caleb Porter's commitments to jump in the ocean and streak his hair like Anthony Ampaipitakwong, as well as the possibility that this title breaks the ice for future success. -- The Kalamazoo Gazette spoke with Porter's high school coach of whether he envisioned Porter becoming a coach himself. The answer: No. -- Here is the Associated Press story, as printed in the Washington Post. -- Probably the story I liked most was on ESPN.com, which quoted Porter as saying this:
Men's soccer
Akron won its first national championship
Concluding the third year of dominance of the soccer world, the Zips climbed the last rung of the ladder and earned the university's first team national championship. It was a team that brought the community together and deserves to celebrate its great feat.
Now it's time to be realistic. Akron won the title in a game, and an NCAA Tournament, in which the team received some serious luck.
The Zips executed two improbable foot saves in the last minute -- one by David Meves, and the other by Chad Barson, who just happened to be positioned between Louisville's striker and the back of the net and whose foot just happened to deflect a point-blank goal opportunity.
The game's lone goal was off a scramble following a corner kick. The ball found Scott Caldwell, who had the national championship goal fed to him on a platter. Unlike Louisville's striker, Caldwell deposited the ball into the net.
Louisville missed out on two sure-fire opportunities in the first half. One ball bounced off the post. On the other, the refs missed a hand-ball call in the box.
But Akron is the last team that needs to apologize for its good fortune. This team, this program, and these fans deserve it. For the past three years, Akron has been the undisputed best team in the nation, only to be screwed by NCAA or lose on penalty kicks.
And this is also a victory for a principled coach. Unlike Caleb Porter, Ken Lolla left the University of Akron, his players and its fans for more money. Porter turned down an offer to be a professional head coach to stay at Akron. He was rewarded by a victory over a predecessor who took his talents to Louisville.
It might take a while for this to sink in. The first step of that for me was when my dad (mostly ignorant on college sports, but an Akron grad) asked: "So wait. Louisville is Division One?" Me: "Yes." Dad: "So all the other teams like Ohio State and UCLA are gone?"
It is an illustration of what this could mean to our alumni if properly publicized. Why support a bigger university when, if receiving adequate support, YOUR alma mater can do great things? Hats off to the AK-Rowdies who traveled to Santa Barbara, Calif., on what much be, in many cases, meager budgets.
Fans should treasure tonight because, even if Porter stays for another 10 years and even if the team retains its dominance, winning a national championship in soccer must be one of the most luck-driven accomplishments in college sports. Once you get to the last few rounds, playing an error-free game takes a higher priority. It's that rare moment where a defender loses focus that a forward can sneak past and change the history of his soccer program.
Cherish this because it could have been different.
Cherish this because it HAS BEEN different in the past. Do you remember picking your jaw off the floor when Blair Gavin's penalty kick sailed over the net a year ago? Or when the NCAA stole Akron's home-pitch advantage, providing Northwestern a big advantage?
Cherish this because it is a great accomplishment for Porter, a fantastic leader with off-the-charts character, charisma and perseverance.
In the next few days, a lot of University of Akron alumni will be chatting about this great achievement over the water cooler. If you are one of those casual fans, take this opportunity to step to the next level. Bookmark this blog, and ZipsNation.org (the unofficial message boards), and GoZips.com (the official university site) to keep up on the daily news.
Fans support is one area where the University of Akron lacks. With the hundreds of thousands of local alumni, it doesn't have to be that way.
Stay tuned for more news from Marla Ridenour in Santa Barbara and Michael Beaven at the celebration downtown.
Men's soccer
Akron and Louisville are tied at 0 at halftime.
The Cardinals have had the two best opportunities to score, however. One shot bounced off the right post. On another play, Chris Korb used his hand to redirect a blocked shot in the box. It should have been a penalty kick for Louisville, but the ref missed the handball call.
Stay tuned to Marla Ridenour's blog and this blog for coverage after the game. Marla is out in California. Also, Michael Beaven is reporting from the Barley House, where a great deal of fans are gathered to watch.
Men's basketball
Akron lost by 35 today at Temple.
The Owls shot 56 percent, compared to 30 percent from the Zips, who were led by Steve McNees and Alex Abreu (11 points each).
Akron has another tough game on Wednesday at Minnesota (8:30 p.m., Big Ten Network) before returning home Saturday at 2 p.m. to play Bethune-Cookman.
Please keep refreshing for updates
Division I NCAA Men's Soccer Tournament -- College Cup -- Quarterfinal from Santa Babara, Calif.
The University of Akron Zips vs. the University of Michigan Wolverines
UA (20-1-2) is the No. 3 seed and UM (17-4-3) is the No. 10 seed.
UA Starting Lineup
Goalkeeper: Sophomore David Meves.
Defenders: Senior Chris Korb, junior Kofi Sarkodie, sophomore Zarek Valentin and sophomore Chad Barson.
Midfielders: Senior Anthony Ampaipitakwong, junior Michael Nanchoff, sophomore Scott Caldwell and freshman Perry Kitchen.
Forwards: Junior Darlington Nagbe and freshman Darren Mattocks.
No. 1 seed Louisville defeated No. 4 seed North Carolina 2-1 in the other semifinal.
MICHIGAN 1-0 Senior Justin Meram scored a goal in the second minute from about 20 yards out to give Michigan a 1-0 lead over Akron.
Michael Nanchoff and Darren Mattocks have had the Zips best scoring chances in the first half. Nanchoff took a shot from the left side, that went wide right of the goal. Mattocks took a shot from the right side that was saved by Wolverines junior goalkeeper Chris Blais.
Darren Mattocks tried a header from the middle of the box that went wdie right.
Michael Nanchoff tried a kick that went wide right.
The score is tied 1-1 Perry Kitchen scored a goal with a right-footed kick from about 30 to 35 yard away in the 33rd minute.
Anthony Ampaipitakwong headed the ball to Chris Blais for a save. Michael Nanchoff sent in a nice pass to start the play.
Kofi Sarkodie just got a yellow card on a tackle attempt.
Scott Caldwell attempted a header that Chris Blais slapped away.
Darlington Nagbe looks a little shaken up and is limping a little bit.
The score is tied 1-1 at halftime
First Half Insight
Akron is dominating possession on a consistent basis. Michigan's best scoring chance ended in Meram's goal. The Zips have had about a handful of scoring chances, with Kitchen's shot resulting in a goal. UA holds an advantage in shots (14-4), shots on goal (5-1) and corner kicks (4-0).
Michigan freshman Soony Saad took a shot over the goal.
The Wolverines just got their first corner kick.
Zips sophomore Ben Speas enters the lineup as a reserve. He replaces Darren Mattocks.
Kofi Sarkodie tried a header in attempt to score a goal, but the ball barely glanced off his head.
Kofi Sarkodie and Wolverines senior Chase Tennant collided with 29:29 to go in the second half as both slid to try and win possession of the ball. Each took a moment to gather themselves and return to action.
Soony Saad took a shot that went past David Meves and hit the right post. Perry Kitchen cleared the ball away.
Darlington Nagbe tried a header that Chris Blais saved.
AKRON 2-1 Kofi Sarkodie scores a goal with a header just yards away from the goal with 73rd minute of the match. Michael Nanchoff started the play with a free kick from the right side.
Scott Caldwell drew the foul to get the Zips the free kick.
Michigan freshman Fabio Pereira Villas Boas gets a yellow card about a minute later.
Junior Michael Balogun enters the Zips lineup as a reserve. He replaces Michael Nanchoff.
Darren Mattocks is back in the match, replacing Ben Speas.
Darren Mattocks just tried a shot that missed the goal wide right.
Final Statistics -- The Zips (21-1-2) held an advantage over the Wolverines (17-5-3) in shots (22-9), shots on goal (8-1) and corner kicks (6-2).
Akron will meet Louisville in the national championship match on Sunday at 4 p.m.
Men's soccer
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The winner of this game will play Michigan on Friday in the national semifinals. They beat Maryland 3-2 in double-overtime. North Carolina has also clinched a spot in the College Cup, as will the winner of Louisville vs. UCLA which starts at 7 tonight. Because the College Cup is in Santa Barbara, Calif., the games will be on Western Coast time. They will start at either 8:30 p.m. or 11 p.m.
I've got the Akron basketball game on in another internet window. You can do it, too. Click here for the video feed of Zips vs. UIC.
This new press box is quite nice. The structure underneath does not look too sturdy, but it's a warm, spacious area, conducive for media to get their work done.
Cal has a small rooting section by the Bears' bench. Maybe 20 people. Berkeley is about five hours away from Santa Barbara, so the Bears will probably expect more fans if the team advances to the College Cup.
Cal got the first scoring chance on a kick from about 18 yards that sailed high. Akron responded with a header from about five yards away. The UC goalkeeper grabbed it.
Midway through the first half, Akron and Cal have had equal opportunities and near-goals. The Zips have been crisper with their passes and made fewer mistakes in that regard.
Akron got a corner kick after a Cal player smoked the ball out of bounds, right at an AK-Rowdy.
Cal's Anthony Avalos scored on a lob pass from Ted Jones over the Zips' defense with 14:45 left in the first half. It is the first time Akron has trailed at home this year.
That's only Avalos' second goal this season. He found a way to sneak behind the entire Zips defense.
This is the seventh time Akron has trailed in any game, anywhere, since the beginning of last season.
The Zips tied it up on a Michael Nanchoff screamer from outside the box with 4:27 left in the first half.
The snow is picking up a little. I think the NCAA should move this game to Berkeley. You know, just to be safe.
One of the referees just walked off the field, delaying the game for a few minutes.
Just 27 seconds later, Akron took the lead. The Zips got big numbers charging down the pitch. Darlington Nagbe passed to Anthony Ampaipitawkong, who drew the defense and fed Scott Caldwell for an easy goal.
OK. Here is the unofficial word about the referee. The head referee and the linesman were alleged to be arguing. The linesman marched off the field, taking his flag. The game was delayed while the impromptu lineman searched for a backup flag. I can't vouch for this being 100 percent accurate, but it's some version of the truth. Only in soccer.
Halftime stats: Akron leads Cal in shots, nine to six, and shots on goal, five to two. Both teams have had four corner kicks. Cal has committed 11 fouls, compared to Akron's two.
Update on the referee drama: Caleb Porter was arguing nonstop with the guy who eventually split. Before leaving, the linesman told the head referee that, "Either he [Porter] is leaving, or I'm leaving." As a result, the linesman has left Lee Jackson Field, and he took his flag with him.
The basketball team is losing 32-20 at halftime against UIC. The Zips are 1-for-11 on 3-point attempts.
We are going to get an official explanation from what happened with this linesman after the game.
There hasn't been much activity in the first nine minutes of the second half.
No sooner I type that... Tony Salciccia scores Cal's second goal, tying the game. The goal was actually a product of a wonderful save by David Meves. He dove and stopped a speeding shot, and Salciccia quickly chipped the change into the back of the net.
Akron is 65-0-1 when the team scores two or more goals in Porter's tenure. The only tie was this year against Ohio State.
Since tying the game, Cal has better controlled the ball.
Servando Carrasco nearly scored on a bicycle kick. I have never seen one of those in person, but it was pretty cool.
If the Zips win tonight, they will feel pretty good about their semifinal game against Michigan, whom the Zips beat 7-1 on Oct. 19. Kofi Sarkodie had a hat trick.
The Zips, of course, have to win tonight. I'd say Cal has outplayed Akron in the first 20 minutes of the second half.
I'm done making observations... Perry Kitchen split the Cal defense with some nifty footwork and retook the lead for Akron with a 20-yard shot off the post. Akron leads 3-2 with 14:19 left.
Attendance is 3,442. The fans are getting behind the team, now that the victory is in sight. Less than 10 minutes separate Akron from its second-straight College Cup.
Brett McClanahan tied the basketball game with a late 3. Unfortunately, the video feed doesn't have a clock.
Cal retied the game with a close shot from John Fitzpatrick. He received a lob pass over everyone that could not have been placed any better. Only one minute left in the second half.
Akron nearly scored as the clock expired. We are going to a 10 minute overtime, and then another 10 minute overtime if necessary. We are all aware of the penalty kick procedure.
The basketball team ended up winning 54-52.
This is Cal's 11th overtime game this season. Akron has played in overtime twice.
Darren Mattocks nearly ended the game. His shot from straight-on in the box was wide right.
Mattocks had another close shot that the goalie appeared to block with his face. It's an injury timeout with 34 seconds left in overtime. Akron will have a corner kick once David Bingham recovers.
First overtime concluded without a winner. We have a two-minute break before trying it again.
Cal is stalling in setting up a goal kick. One can only conclude that the Bears are content to let penalty kicks determine the season.
Cal's goalie got a hand on a Nagbe shot that appeared destined to end the game. Akron got a corner kick out of it, which the goalie nabbed.
In an exciting, yet fruitless, series, Akron had two near-scores. Caldwell's shot was blocked. Ampaipitakwong's follow-up was blocked.
The game is going to penalty kicks, so there will be no official winner tonight. But someone is playing Michigan on Friday.
As you remember from last December, it's the best of five kicks. The teams alternate. That's pretty much it.
They're setting the kicks up for the side of the field opposite the AK-Rowdies. That helps Cal quite a bit.
1a) Hector Jimenez kicked first for Cal and missed wide left. 1b) Nanchoff's kick was blocked.
Akron 0, Cal 0
2a) A.J. Soares, a Hermann Trophy finalist, scored with a roller to the left. 2b) Kitchen went top-right shelf to tie it up.
Akron 1, Cal 1
3a) Carrasco aimed right at Meves' neck, and the Zips goalie stopped it. 3b) Zarek Valentin drilled the top-right corner of the net.
Akron 2, Cal 1
4a) Meves blocked another Cal shot from Davis Paul, the Bears' leading scorer. 4b) Caldwell missed wide left.
Akron 2, Cal 1
5a) Meves got a hand on Avalos' shot, but it still went in. 5b) Sarkodie has a potential game-winner to shoot. Bingham got a hand on the ball, but it still went in.
PK final tally: Akron 3, Cal 2.
The Zips will advance to the College Cup! The fans are going nuts. What an amazing game!
Akron will have a send-off party for the team on Tuesday from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at Stile Field House.
Akron matched the NCAA record for home unbeaten streak with 39 games.
Penalty Kicks - Akron 3, California 3. ZIPS ADVANCE
Men's basketball
Akron tightened up on defense and shot 56 percent in the second half to close out a 77-69 win at Detroit.
Nik Cvetinovic led Akron tonight. He had 18 points, seven rebounds and four steals. The Titans had a difficult time with 20 turnovers.
The Zips continue their Horizon League tour, stopping next at Illinois-Chicago for a 4 p.m. game on Saturday. It will be their fourth consecutive game against a foe from the Horizon League.
Shawn Lemon is Akron's only player on the All-MAC teams, earning Second-Team honors.
I'm a little surprised that Brian Wagner did not get any recognition, but when you're 1-11, you can't complain. Wagner was fourth in the league in tackles.
Miami and Northern Illinois will play Friday at 7 p.m. for the MAC Championship.
Men's soccer
I plan to liveblog from the Elite Eight game on Saturday at 4 p.m. against Cal.
Be prepared for my awesome grasp on soccer terminology.
Men's basketball
The Zips will try to sweat off some of those Thanksgiving pounds 7 p.m. tonight at Detroit.
You can watch the game by clicking this link.


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New Oreo Flavor: Cookie Dough
(NEWSER) – In a creation the Los Angeles Times likens to "a chicken stuffed with eggs," Oreo is set to unveil a cookie dough-flavored cookie as one of two new versions of its classic cookie. The other new flavor is Marshmallow Crispy, which the New York Daily News says is "reminiscent of a Rice Krispie Treat, with vanilla-flavored sandwich cookies and sweet cream spotted with crisped rice."
Read the full story on Newser.com

subset: commoncrawl


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How do you keep things safer between the sheets? We explore your options.
Dim the lights and break out the…eggs? These 10 foods will kick your sex drive into high gear.
15 signs that it's more than just the blues
From your diet to your medication to your mindset, here are 13 culprits of low libido.
Eating healthier doesn't mean tossing your favorite recipes in the trash. Here are 10 easy ingredient substitutions for healthier cooking and baking.
Banish belly rolls for good with these easy moves to sculpt strong, sexy abs


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The following 37 shops in Charleston are not yet RepairPal Certified - Learn More
Kia is a leading Korean automaker. The name Kia means to "arise or come up out of East Asia."
Pope Francis of the Catholic Church rode in a Kia Soul during his visit to South Korea in 2014, earning the company international attention.
Kia's most reported problem on RepairPal is associated with door latch failures on the Kia Optima.


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Multiple casualties in Fort Hood shooting
UPDATE: 10:04 PM - The lockdown has been lifted in Fort Hood.
UPDATE: 8:42 PM - At least four people are reported dead in another mass shooting at Fort Hood. The gunman is also reported as being dead. The shooter is being identified as 34-year old Ivan Lopez. More than a dozen other people are reported wounded. Fort Hood was the scene of another deadly mass shooting in November of 2009.
President Obama says he intends to get to the bottom of the shooting. He added he's heartbroken over the deadly incident.
UPDATE: - The suspect in today's shooting at Fort Hood is identified as Specialist Ivan Lopez. Texas Congressman Michael McCaul gave the identity to CNN. There's no word on exactly what may have prompted the shooting that left several people injured. There are multiple reports that three others were killed. The base remains on lockdown.
(Ft. Hood, TX) -- Emergency sirens are active at Fort Hood in Texas after a shooting at the base. Authorities are telling people in the area to keep their doors closed and locked and to stay away from windows. Multiple sources are reporting one person is dead and eight injured. NBC reports there is a suspect in custody, but police are looking into the possibility of a second shooter. President Obama has been informed of the situation.
Fort Hood was the site of a shooting in 2009 that left 13 people dead and more than 30 wounded. In that case, Army Major Nidal Hasan was convicted of the shooting. He didn't put up much of a defense, saying he did it for religious reasons.
The 2009 shooting was the worst shooting on an American military base in history.


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The page you are trying to view is available on our U.S. Gift Registry site only. You may still purchase a gift for friends or couples who are registered to receive gifts in the US (even if your billing address is international). Please note that prices will be displayed in US dollars throughout the gift purchasing process. You may continue to the gift registry you are trying to view by clicking the link below.
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Feds warn airlines of new shoe-bomb threat
(NEWSER) – Air passengers headed to the US from overseas can expect much tighter scrutiny of their shoes—and bodies—in the days and weeks to come. The Department of Homeland Security has learned of a possible new shoe-bomb plot and told airlines flying to the US to pay extra attention to passenger shoes and step up pat-downs and full-body screenings. Officials tell NBC the warning is based on "very recent intelligence," but isn't specific to any time, country, or airline.
Read the full story on Newser.com


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The Democrats Need to Stop Freaking Out About Obamacare and Take Charge
The dawn of the 24-7 news cycle about 15 or so years ago brought with it a few new ways for the media to talk about and cover politics. With all that air time to fill, politics, and certain big news events like your major murders, became part soap opera. Soap operas, to keep the ratings steady, need running themes. What used to be called "Democrats in disarray," known today in our hurried-up age as #demsindisarray, proved to be a compelling and durable one.
It developed, in part, because that dawn of cable happened to be the era of Clinton "scandals," real and (mostly) imagined. Remember Craig Livingstone? If you don't, Google him. If you do, you're chuckling already, I know, because for about four days there on cable TV in 1996, Livingstone was supposed to be the ruination of Bill and Hillary Clinton. Democrats in disarray!
Yes, Republicans have been in disarray, too, from time to time—the low points of the Iraq War, Katrina, and just last month during the government shutdown. But for a variety of reasons, the 24-7 news cycle era has found Dems in disarray to be a far more potent story line than Republicans in disarray. It's alliterative, for starters. And it has been, I readily concede, legitimately true at times. Plus, Fox, for many years, drove the agenda that the other cable nets swallowed hook, line, and sinker. MSNBC has been a liberal pushback channel only for five years or so, or less than half the life span of the 24-7 cycle. (Remember when Tucker Carlson was an MSNBC host?) And Republicans have tended to have tougher game faces, march more in lockstep, and not concede those crucial rhetorical inches that Democrats so often feel compelled to grant.
Of course, we are at one of these moments now. Bill Clinton conceded those rhetorical inches to the right on Obamacare, which Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX) seized on immediately. At least two blue-state senators, Dianne Feinstein (CA) and Jeff Merkley (OR), have jumped on the "fix Obamacare" bandwagon. A week ago, Majority Leader Harry Reid was not going to allow any changes to the Affordable Care Act reach the floor of his Senate. Now he's probably going to have to.
Undeniably, a lot of the damage is self-inflicted, and I've said that already more than once. It's a pretty good time for President Obama to crack the whip. Why he evidently didn't earlier is still mystifying. Or maybe it's not. He just isn't a kick-ass-and-take-names kind of guy. But the success of his presidency may be on the line here in the next few weeks, so it's not the worst idea for him to become one.
At the same time, there's no need for panic. Even with the continued existence and success of Fox, reality is still reality, and in the end, reality usually trumps cable and hyperventilating reports about who won the morning in Politico. Andreality says the enrollment period doesn't end until next spring, and it's really not possible to tell how things are going until enrollment has ended and we see both the number of people who've enrolled and what percentage healthy vs. sick, because insurers made their guesstimates and pegged their rates to those guesstimates. Reality also says a legislative fix to address the problems faced by those buying insurance on the private market might not be so bad. A bill that allows—doesn't order, but allows—insurers to keep offering existing policies for one more year while also restricting that offer only to existing customers wouldn't necessarily blow a big hole in the precepts of the act. I'm not sure why Republicans would agree to it, but the first part of my equation comes from Rep. Fred Upton (R-MI)'s bill, so who knows.
Read The Full Article On The Daily Beast
More articles from The Daily Beast:
- Dog Orders Cavity Search; Lawsuits Ensue
- Scotland Yard: Dead Spy in a Bag Probably an Accident
- The Missing Bitcoin Millions
© 2013 Newsweek/Daily Beast Company LLC


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Model and Data: Important notice
The website you have requested (former Model and Data website) is no longer available.
In 2010, the Model and Data Group became the Data Management
department at DKRZ (Deutsches Klimarechenzentrum).
Access to major pages:
- World Data Center for Climate
- Access to CERA database
- Get IPCC AR4 Data on DVD (AR5 Data coming soon)
In case of any problems or specific missing content please send an e-mail to the following address:


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President Obama takes selfies too!
President Obama joined in on a selfie at the memorial service for former South African President Nelson Mandela on Tuesday.
Obama leaned in with British Prime Minister David Cameron, as Danish Prime Minister Helle Thorning-Schmidt snapped a picture of the three world leaders smiling while tens of thousands of mourners and other dignitaries paid their respects in Johannesburg to Mandela, who passed away on Thursday at the age of 95.
First Lady Michelle Obama can be seen in the photo (far right) observing the solemnity of the occasion.
Suffice to say, a number of people have taken issue with Obama and the two other politicians for grinning and posing for a selfie during the somber service.
Photo Credit Getty Images


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Olympic Torch Blasts Off for Space Station
(NEWSER) – The Russians are taking the Olympic torch relay to a new height—the International Space Station. The 2014 Sochi torch, which will not be lit during its five days in space, blasted off on a Soyuz rocket this morning accompanied by Russia's Mikhail Tyurin, American Rick Mastracchio, and Koici Wakata from Japan. The torch has been to space before, aboard the space shuttle Atlantic before the 1996 Atlanta Games, but two Russian cosmonauts plan to take it on its first spacewalk this week/


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WATCH: Katy Perry joins Rolling Stones on stage in Las Vegas
Listen to Katy Perry on iHeartRadio | Listen to Rolling Stones on iHeartRadio
Katy Perry is the latest surprise guest to show up on stage with the Rolling Stones. On Saturday, the pop star joined the legendary rockers for a stop on their "50 and Counting" tour at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, on their hit "Beast Of Burden."
Katy confirmed that she'd be the night's special guest just a few hours before taking the stage, tweeting that she was "much obliged and quite honored" to be their pick this week. After her performance, she took to Twitter again raving about having had just "gyrated on Mick Jagger."
I'm much obliged & quite honored!RT @rollingstones: Tonight the Rolling Stones will be joined on stage in Las Vegas by @katyperry! #Stones50— Katy Perry (@katyperry) May 11, 2013
Yes, I just did gyrated on Mick Jagger. WHAT?! #Stones50— Katy Perry (@katyperry) May 12, 2013
Mick & Kate forever! @mickjagger twitpic.com/cq71i6— Katy Perry (@katyperry) May 13, 2013
Thanks for letting me be the 5th wheel last night! @therollingstones twitpic.com/cq72uv— Katy Perry (@katyperry) May 13, 2013
Other artists who have joined the Stones on their tour so far include Gwen Stefani, Keith Urban, and Tom Waits.
Photo Credit Getty Images


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Airliner Shot Down Over Ukraine
Nearly 300 people are believed to have been killed when a Malaysia Airlines jet crashed today in eastern Ukraine. A Ukrainian official says pro-Russian militants shot the plane down. The official blames "terrorists" who he says used a ground-to-air missile to bring down the Boeing 777 about 25 miles from the Russian border. U.S. officials are trying to determine whether there were any Americans on board. A Ukrainian official says the plane that took off from Amsterdam was carrying 23 American citizens.
President Obama calls the crash a "terrible tragedy" and State Department spokesman Jen Psaki says the U.S. is closely monitoring the situation in Ukraine. She refused to speculate on the claims the airliner was brought down by a ground-to-air missile. Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte says he is "deeply shocked" and is returning to the Netherlands from a summit in Brussels. Tour operators in the Netherlands say they had booked dozens of Dutch citizens onto the flight. Malaysia's prime minister has also expressed his shock at the tragic news.
Meanwhile, Ukrainian rebels claim to have found the jet's black box. The report comes from Russia's Interfax news agency. In light of the crash, major air carriers are avoiding the east Ukraine area. Lufthansa, Air France and Virgin Atlantic are all avoiding the airspace. Earlier this year, the U.S. State Department had warned citizens to defer all travel to two eastern regions because armed separatist groups control the areas.
PHOTO: Getty Images


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Think a loved one may be experiencing hearing loss? Here are five warning signs to watch for.
Discover the common causes of and treatments for a sore throat.
Learn about what actually causes your temperature to spike.
Find out which foods you should watch out for.
Worse than a toilet seat? You betcha. Check out these 17 germ hot spots and get tips on how to clean up your act
Tips for preventing one of the most common types of knee injury.


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Template:U Precise/AudioVideoConversion
(→Other DVD authoring programs)
Current revision as of 00:15, 1 July 2013
Audio / Video conversion
Here is a nice review of some of the applications that enables conversion and handling of these types of files. Some specific examples and suggestions are here.
Mencoder is part of the MPlayer set of libraries (that also uses several of the FFMPEG libraries) for audio/visual conversion, including from DVD (.vob) format to other video formats. Some examples of usage are here.
- There are many front-ends for mencoder, including k9copy.
FFMPEG video / audio conversion
FFMPEG is the swiss-army knife of video and audio format conversion. It succeeds when no other program can. It is free and open source. If it not yet installed on your system as part of another package (it is used by many video/audio editors), then install it:
sudo apt-get install ffmpeg
- To convert many different formats, read the FFMPEG documentation. Also see this tutorial.
For examples and further information, see this section.
- FFMpeg requires that multiple restricted extra codecs be installed. This can be done in a single easy step from the command-line Terminal:
sudo apt-get install ubuntu-restricted-extras
WinFF is a free, GPL-licensed open source GUI frontend for FFMPEG. Install:
sudo apt-get install winff xterm
- Menu -> Applications -> Sound & Video -> WinFF
Join video segments
Individual video segments (MPEG-2, for example) can easily be joined:
cat samplevideo1.mpg samplevideo2.mpg samplevideo3.mpg > samplevideo123.mpg
- You can then write the resulting MPEG-2 file to a DVD and play it in most DVD players.
Split a file into segments
Any file can be split into segments using the Linux command:
split -b 1440k my_big_file
which will split my_big_file into equal segments of size 1440 kb.
Save any streaming Flash video
An easy way is to install the Video Download Helper plug-in for Firefox.
Otherwise, most Flash videos download to the /tmp directory while you watch the video, creating a randomly-named video file there (such as Flashuh4G6s). When you close the webpage, this file in the /tmp directory will be erased. After the entire video has downloaded, but before you close the webpage, copy that file (such as Flashuh4G6s) to your home directory (where it will not be erased). Of course, for this to work, you must change your Flash (or Gnash) settings to allow an unlimited buffer. While watching your Flash video, right click to bring up the Flash -> Settings window. Set the Buffer to "Unlimited."
Once you have copied the file, rename it appropriately with the .flv added to the filename. You can then watch it using VLC or Mplayer.
Here is another method that involves making a symbolic link.
Save rtmp / flv streams
flvstreamer is a command-line application to dump rtmp streams. Install:
sudo apt-get install flvstreamer
Example of usage:
flvstreamer -r "rtmp://host/dir/file.flv" -o filename.flv
If you see the following the "WARNING: Download may be incomplete, try --resume!" message, try to use the --resume option:
flvstreamer -r "rtmp://host/dir/file.flv" -o filename.flv --resume
Convert Flash video audio to mp3
Once you have downloaded flash video content (.flv) from the Internet (using the Video Download Helper plug-in for Firefox, for example), the audio component can be converted to an .mp3 file. (This will work for any type of video file, not just Flash.) For details, see this section.
2ManDVD is a GUI utility for creating DVD videos. It is the successor of ManDVD. Choose the version for your architecture and install it from the 2ManDVD website. Click on the download link and select to open it with the GDebi Package Installer (default). (If you have previously installed ManDVD you must uninstall it first.) For a usage tutorial, read this 2ManDVD guide.
- Menu -> Applications -> Sound & Video -> 2ManDVD
DeVeDe is a program to create video DVDs and CDs suitable for home players (i.e. VCD, sVCD or CVD) from any source video file that is supported by MPlayer. Choose the version for your architecture and install it from the DeVeDe website. Click on the download link and select to open it with the GDebi Package Installer (default). For a usage tutorial, read this DeVeDe guide.
- Menu -> Applications -> Sound & Video -> DeVeDe
ManDVD is a QT-based DVD authoring tool which accepts several different file types as input. Install:
sudo apt-get install mandvd xine-ui
DVD Author
- For more details on creating a "commercial" (.vob) format DVD-video, see this section.
- DVD author allows you to create menus and format your MPEG-2 videos onto a DVD disc so that you can play it in a commercial DVD player. DVD Author is a command line tool, but several GUI's exist. Install:
sudo apt-get install dvdauthor
- To prepare an audiovideo file (e.g. an .avi file) for conversion to DVD (.vob) format authoring (using a tool like dvdauthor), it is best to convert the file to a format with MPEG-2 (avcodec) video, AC3 (lav) audio, and the MPEG-PS (A+V) container as an intermediate first. This can be done using the GUI utility Avidemux, for example. Here is the Avidemux tutorial for doing this. Details are also found here.
- QDVDAuthor is a Qt-based GUI for DVD Author. A package for Precise does not exist, but the Maverick package can be used.
- Enable the Maverick multiverse repository temporarily by adding it to the Synaptic Package Manager Origin of Packages ("Other" software):
- Menu -> System -> Synaptic -> Settings -> Edit Origins -> Software Sources: Other Software -> Add...
deb http://us.archive.ubuntu.com/ubuntu maverick multiverse
- From the Get and Remove Software menu (of Synaptic), install the qdvdauthor package (and the qdvdauthor-common package if it is not automatically installed as a dependency).
- Once the download/installation is complete, disable the Maverick multiverse repository (to prevent conflict with other Precise packages).
- Download and install the addons:
cd /tmp wget http://qdvdauthor.sourceforge.net/data/masks.tar.bz2 -O masks.tar.bz2 wget http://qdvdauthor.sourceforge.net/data/buttons.tar.bz2 -O buttons.tar.bz2 wget http://qdvdauthor.sourceforge.net/data/alpha_trans.tar.bz2 -O alpha_trans.tar.bz2 cd /usr/share/qdvdauthor/ sudo tar -xjf /tmp/masks.tar.bz2 sudo tar -xjf /tmp/buttons.tar.bz2 sudo tar -xjf /tmp/alpha_trans.tar.bz2
- Menu -> Multimedia -> QDVDAuthor
Follow instructions in the Quick-Start Guide:
- QDVDAuthor -> Help -> Quick-Start Guide
For a tutorial on authoring DVDs, see this guide.
Other DVD authoring programs
There are several other DVD authoring programs. For additional information see the Ubuntu Community pages. Packages include:
Bombono, a GTK-based, GUI DVD authoring program. Install (requires multiverse repositories to be enabled):
sudo apt-get install bombono-dvd
- DVDStyler is a full-featured, cross-platform DVD-authoring frontend. Install:
sudo apt-get install dvdstyler
KMediaFactory is a fast and simple KDE-based DVD authoring frontend for dvdauthor. (The DVD folders can then be burned to disc using K3b.) Install (requires multiverse repositories to be enabled):
sudo apt-get install kmediafactory
ToVid is a collection of tools to create a DVD from a number of different video formats. A GUI is available. Install:
sudo apt-get install tovidgui tovid
Ripper X CD Ripper/Encoder
Ripper X is a GTK-based (i.e. Gnome) open source utility to rip CD audio tracks to OGG, MP3, or FLAC formats. It supports CDDB lookups.
sudo apt-get install ripperx
Asunder CD Ripper/Encoder
Asunder is a GTK-based open source CD ripper/encoder which saves to Wav, MP3, OGG, FLAC, or WavPack. Self-installing .deb packages are available here.
Audex CD Ripper/Encoder
Audex is a port to KDE4 of the KAudioCreator package used in KDE 3. It can create output for LAME (MP3-compliant), OGG Vorbis (oggenc), FLAC and RIFF WAVE. Install:
sudo apt-get install audex
Gnac (GNome Audio Converter)
Gnac (GNome Audio Converter) converts between all GStreamer supported audio formats. It is not yet part of the standard repositories. See these installation instructions.
SOX (encodes/decodes audio)
SoX is a command-line utility to convert audio formats. See this usage guide. Install:
sudo apt-get install sox
Install MP3 support for SoX
- Install the MP3 libraries (if not already installed):
sudo apt-get install libmp3lame0
- For simple conversions, I have found FFMPEG to be easier, and FFMPEG already has mp3 support. Example:
ffmpeg -i audiofile.m4a -ab 128k -ac 2 -ar 44100 audiofile.mp3
- where -ab specifies the bit rate, -ac specifies the number of channels (in this example 2-channel stereo), and -ar specifies the sampling frequency.


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Circa 1890
A pair of three light Louis XVI sconces in their original aged bronze finish, having exquisite chased details in the naturalistic feathers, bows, and ribbons. The finial below the fluted, tapered, and twisted column was cleverly the original switch for the lights. Attributed to the New York maker E. F. Caldwell Co.
Overall: 85 cm h. x 43 cm w. x 30 cm d.
Backplate: 85 cm h. x 9 cm w.
CE wiring available, contact sales for a quote.
CE Lamping: 3 SES/E14 sockets, maximum 60 watts per socket.
1 pair total available.
Please contact your local showroom about viewing this item.


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LOST MINIATURE DACHSHUND (Copley)
Our Miniature Dachshund (wiener dog) is missing in the copley area. She answers to Sophie, scar on her nose, white hairs on her face and chest, balding on her ears, weighs about 9 pounds and is about 9 yrs old. If you have seen her or know someone who has please contact Caroline at 330-336-8929.To read more or comment...
Lost Cat in Hudson Park Estates
Lost Tuesday 7/26 at eleven in the evening in Hudson Park Estates in Hudson, OH. Cat is a year and a half, grey with white patch under chin. He is neutered and declawed in the front. Please contact at 234-380-1735 if spotted.To read more or comment...
SOS Adoptable of the Day: Carter!
Breed: Tiger - Domestic Short Hair (mix)
Gender: Male
Color: brown tiger
Altered: Yes
Ref. no.: 110425K4
Lost family puppy in Stow/Cuyahoga Falls (Graham & Hudson)
Nala is a 10week old chocolate lab. She has no identifying marks, just a uniform chocolate color. She was last seen on Hudson Drive by the Wal-mart and Lowes. She will respond to Nala most times and is very comfortable around people. Please call me at (716) 573-8121 or (330) 344-1152. REWARD if found!To read more or comment...
Lost Lt Gray Doberman in Smithville, OH- REWARD
Please help! Searching for Emma a female Doberman Pincher appx 3 years old who is lt gray and wearing a purple collar. She has been spotted in Wayne County; most recently close to the center of town off SR 585. She is timid and will run. Please call with ANY information. REWARD if found. 330-317-7664To read more or comment...
LOST: Small female black poodle mix
Family dog still missing. Last seen Thurs 7/21 Westview Mobile Home Park in Doylestown at 21 and Edwards. Shy and may be afraid. If you get close enough take a pic and text to me. Do not chase her. If you spot her just call.
Shetland/Mix S. Arlignton Road Akron
No collar. Very Sweet. Older dog. (330)760-4278To read more or comment...
SOS Adoptable of the Day: Lizzie!
Breed: Domestic Medium Hair-black and white (mix)
Gender: Female
Altered: Yes
Ref. no.: 110708-1
Found - Chihuahua in West Akron
Female, light colored Chihuahua with pink collar, found on the corner of Stadleman and Glendora on Monday the 18th. Call 330-867-5568.To read more or comment...
Found: Female hound in Kenmore area
Found female hound white with brown spots. Has orange collar and flee collar. Dog is nervous and won't let you touch her. 330-414-4900.To read more or comment...
PAWS Ohio hosts 1st Annual "Operation Nip-Tuck"
A ground breaking movement is happening with a brand new project named Operation Nip-Tuck. For the past 6 or 7 years the Cleveland City Kennel has not been able to perform surgeries. The operating room was a disaster! Due to a collaborative effort, we are cleaning up the space and raising money for two new operating tables & anesthesia machines. Ceiling tiles are being pulled out and new put up….Stautzenberger students are painting the walls….five Veterinarians are donating their time….and Iams is donated a tremendous amount of food & gift bag items for this project.
On July 23, 2011 we are coming together to neuter 50-75 dogs at the renovated City of Cleveland Kennel….Operation Nip-Tuck! We will be targeting the 44105 area. If you know any friends, or family members that need to have their dog neutered in this area, pass this email along to them. Have you been procrastinating on getting your dog fixed? Call today to schedule an appointment….unneutered male dogs only….440-442-7297 (PAWS). Dogs will be completely vetted with all their shots….and will leave with a brand new collar!
Found dog in Firestone Park
Black and white dog that appears to just have give birth recently. Found while walking by Turtle Pond in Firestone Park. 330-472-9368.To read more or comment...
LOST: Female Puggle in Cuyahoga Falls
My darling Puggle, Daisy, ran away on 7/17/11. She's very friendly and loves to ride in cars. Please help me find her, I miss her to pieces!!To read more or comment...
Black and White Cat Lost in Kenmore Area
Fuggie is not the prettiest cat going around, but she's part of our family and has been for years. She has her pink rabies heart on her flea collar. She looks like someone from the Phantom of the Opera. Her picture is attached. If you find her, please let me know...Thank you for your help...To read more or comment...
PAWS Pet of the Week: Esther & Evan
Everyone needs a little chocolate in their life! Here are two sweet, lovable little chocolate brown tabbies, longing for their forever home. Esther and Evan are mother and son. Shown in the animal wardens cage, they were rescued with littermates Ellie, Ethan, Evie and Elsie (posted separately). Mama Esther was scooped off the street by a kind gentleman and shortly after, she gave birth in his home. She's been a wonderful mama to her babies. Unfortunately she was in danger of losing her safe haven and PAWS stepped in through the desperate request of an animal loving family member.
Esther's a VERY friendly, sweet and petite girl who's about 1 year old. Evan, pictured with her, is a wonderful, loving baby boy with the cutest white paws. He's very friendly and playful, and is about 6-7 wks old in the picture. They are both completely vetted and altered.To read more or comment...
Lost: Male Beagle Pup Firestone Park
Missing since 7/8/2011. We miss this dog tremendously. He has a buddy at home that misses him also. Thank you.To read more or comment...
Found a Small female dog, City Hospital area
Found a Small female dog, City Hospital aria. Marked like a miniature Doberman.
Black and White Cat Lost in Kenmore area
Fuggie looks like the Phantom of the Opera. Half of her face is white and the other black. She is an indoor cat so may be skittish. She also has a broken tail from an old owner. She is missed here at home and we would love to have her back. Thank you for helping us find her.
Contact Phone Number: 330-703-2235
Email firstname.lastname@example.com
Lost: Yellow Lab / Retriever mix in West Akron
2-YEAR-OLD MIXED YELLOW LAB/RETR. GOT OFF LEASE, NO COLLAR ON HER...MISSING FROM WESTOVER DRIVE IN WEST AKRON...CHILDREN MISS HER TERRIBLY...PLEASE HELP. 330-812-7595To read more or comment...
Lost: Small black poodle mix in Canal Fulton
Small (approximately 17 pounds) black poodle mix is missing and the kids are heartbroken. Last seen in Lawrence Township/Canal Fulton area. Her name is Izzie and there's a reward for her return. If found, call 330-705-8502.To read more or comment...
Cat wandering 15th and Broad Blvd area in Cuyahoga Falls
Long haired light Grey Cat no obvious markings with green/yellow eyes wandering in the 15th and Broad Blvd area. Starting to look ferral. If yours please claim. 330-922-5865.To read more or comment...
Found: Young Male Tan Dog (Goodyear Heights, Akron)
Found Tuesday July 12th running on Eastland Ave near the 6 corners. Tail docked, not fixed, wearing black collar (but no tags), in good health and very friendly. Tan in color - left front paw and spot on chest are white. Call (330) 790-1001 if you recognize this dog.To read more or comment...
FOUND: tiny female mixed terrior dog in Hudson
The terrior is tan, black and white. She weighs about 6 pounds and looks like she's given birth recently. 330 656-3899.To read more or comment...
Found-Female Husky, Congress Lake, Hartville ohio
Full grown Husky female, mild mannered, very friendly. Found across the street from Congress Lake Country Club entrance.
Contact Phone Number: 330-904-1048
Email firstname.lastname@example.com
Lost: female grey cat-highland square
Our cat named Kitty 13 year old grey cat got loose from our home around Grand street in Akron...Highland Square..she is sweet and a part of our family...please help/call if you see her....To read more or comment...
Missing cat Stow Ohio
My cat got out Sunday night 7/10 and has not come home since. He is a gray tabby cat, neutered and has all of his claws. He loves people and is always wanting to sit in someones lap. He usually will go out in the daytime as long as we are home , he never left the yard and would come back in within an hour to snuggle. His name is Rico and will come if called. Last seen in the Sherwood Acres neighborhood.To read more or comment...
SOS Adoptable of the Day: Grizzly!
Breed: Norwegian Elkhound (purebred)
Gender: Male
Altered: Yes
Ref. no.: 110706
PAWS Pet of the Week: Tatum
Hi, my name is Tatum. I was saved after being hit by a car. I came out of the encounter with only minor scrapes and bruises, and am totally healed now. I am a very petite grey and white tabby with an adorable grey T on my nose (for Tatum). The lady that saved me says that I am a little more shy than most cats, but I warm up when given time and quiet attention. I used to live on the streets, but am hoping to find a home who wants me to live inside their castle and be the princess I'm told I am. I'm a young lady of about one year, have just been fully vetted and spayed, and am so ready for my purrmanent home. Please, please pick me to be your new best friend.
If you're interested in Tatum or any other PAWS pets, please contact PAWS at 440-442-PAWS or visit www.pawsohio.org.To read more or comment...
Lost black and white cat/Goodyear Heights
Last seen on the corner of Morningview and Malasia. Our three year old, neutered, black and white cat. No tags or collar. Answers to the name of Bruce.
He knows his way home so something has happened to him or someone has him. Please help us as we miss him so.
Contact Phone Number: 330-283-1602
Email firstname.lastname@example.com
Lost: Henry; male grey tabby cat, East Barberton / Hospital area
Henry. Escaped from house on July 5th. Was wearing collar with bell and name / shot tag.Dearly missed family pet. Reward! Contact Paul at 330-524-7460.To read more or comment...
FOUND female pointer beagle mix in Sharon Twp
Female, white with black patches and spots, very friendly. Call 330-239-0264.To read more or comment...
Found Shih Tzu - Manchester area
Found female Shih Tzu. Appears to be housebroke and good with other animals. If you are missing your dog, call 330-825-2063To read more or comment...
3 YEAR OLD BLACK AND SILVER YORKIE POO WHO GOES BY THE NAME OF CUSH HAS BEEN MISSING SINCE 7-8-11 AROUND 130 PM! SHE IS GREATLY MISSED BY HER 3 AND 5 YEAR OLD OWNERS!!! THERE IS A REWARD FOR HER SAFE RETURN!! 330 388 8830!!To read more or comment...
SOS Adoptable of the Day: Smiley!
Breed: Labrador Retriever (mix)
Age: 1 yr
Gender: Male
Altered: Yes
Ref. no.: 110618-2
Lost King Charles Spaniel in Munroe Falls
Please help us find our beloved pet. Her name is Breezy. She is a brown & white CAVALIER KING CHARLES SPANIEL. She is 5 yrs. old, & was wearing a red collar & purple leash. She has a chip implant. Two females, one older & one younger took her. She may be in the Berea, Westlake area on Cleveland, Ohio. We are offering a $200. reward for the safe return or info. leading to her recovery. Please help us....we miss her so much.
Contact Phone Number: 330-603-8037
Email email@example.com
Lost dog: Brown boxer in Firestone Park area
Male Boxer...child's pet. Gentle, sweet male boxer has been missing since 7/6/2011 in the Firestone Park area. 330-256-7407To read more or comment...
FOUND 7/6/11: Female Cat...brown/black tabby...Yorkshire Woods...Cuyahoga Falls
Sweet, affectionate, relatively young brown/black female tabby cat. Has light brown belly. Has collar but no ID tags. Contact 330.203.8703.To read more or comment...
LOST Male Husky in Lorain
Lost male Husky, 2 years old, neutered. Missing since 6am Sunday July 3rd. He is white with black and gray fur with brown eyes. Very friendly and playful. He will jump on people when excited or nervous. He went missing from our backyard in Lorain near Clearview High School. Please respond with any information to Steve/Gloria at 440-233-4575, 440-610-7168, 440-506-8065 or Pamela at 440-752-1697. Cronos is on medication and needs badly. Any information is appreciated. Reward for return! Thank you.To read more or comment...
Lost Gray Tabby Cat - Wyndham Ridge, Stow
Male adult cat, domestic short hair gray tabby with black stripes,
front declawed, large cat (12 lbs)
Found Pomeranian in Ellet
Chocolate Pomeranian found in Ellet.
Contact Phone Number: 330-812-4063
Email email@example.com
Lost - Beloved Family dog in Uniontown
Male, medium sized black and brown mixed breed dog (shepherd mix). He has a damaged tear duct that makes one eye look like he is crying. Had an electric fence collar on when last seen.
Lost in Springfield Twp./Uniontown area near Killian on July 4th. 4 children missing Barron. 330-645-7846To read more or comment...
Fact or Fiction? Common Cat Health Myths
Cats Always Land on Their Feet?
Pregnant Women Shouldn't Own Cats
Cats are Nocturnal
Are these fact or fiction?To read more or comment...
Lost Female Border Collie Mix - Green/Unionto
Lost a deaf, partially blind 14 yr. old Border Collie/German Shepherd mix dog. Has tags with the name Codi-Girl on them. Lost in Green near Sweitzer. 330-771-1284To read more or comment...
SOS Adoptable of the Day: Lily!
Breed: Border Collie - German Shepherd Dog (mix)
Age: 2 yrs
Gender: Female
Altered: Yes
Ref. no.: 110618-4
Found: Rottweiler in Forest Lodge Park
Found a male rottweiler in Forest Lodge Park (near Mull Ave. and Greenwood Ave) on June 30. It had been wandering around the area for a few days. The dog is now at the Summit County Animal Shelter, so either call them or me 330-794-5149.To read more or comment...
Found: Black lab mix in Cuyahoga Falls
Found black lab mix in Cuyahoga Falls near State Road. Very lovable, young and in good health. 330-860-4249.To read more or comment...
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- 2008 (2)


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1,500 Google Reviews
Navigation of the website was easy. I got to the part I needed quickly. It was in stock. The order was processed and delivered in a timely manner.
Post base support black 2.91
Broil King: 9453-58 946-28 955-18
This part may fit other models. Please contact us if you require additional assistance.
Our warehouse is stocked full of parts for all kinds of appliances.
Questions? Just ask - No call centers!
We are a USA business based in Denver, Colorado and we stand fully behind our products and service


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"Law & Order" Episode Invokes Trayvon Martin Case
More details are surfacing about the upcoming "Law & Order: SVU" episode inspired by the shooting of Florida teen Trayvon Martin. Reports now say the episode will also include elements of another real-life controversy - the racially-charged scandal involving celebrity chef Paula Deen. Insiders tells TheWrap.com Cybill Shepherd will play a character that appears to be a cross-composite of Deen and George Zimmerman, the neighborhood watch volunteer who shot and killed Martin. Shepherd's character will reportedly claim self-defense after shooting an unarmed hoodie-wearing teenager she believes is following her.
Zimmerman was controversially acquitted at trial earlier this year. Deen saw her cooking empire crumble after her admitted use of the N-word in a court deposition. The "Law & Order: SVU" episode is scheduled to air in October.


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Vegas Mansion Could Go for $8M - in Bitcoin
(NEWSER) – A casino owner-turned-commercial developer is asking $7.85 million to sell a Las Vegas home, and he's willing to accept the online currency bitcoin for the deal. Jack Sommer says he got the idea to seek bitcoin for his 25,000-square-foot mansion from two of his sons, who've been involved in making and trading the currency. "The advantage is that we're expanding our market and adding some notoriety," Sommer says.


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Boy, 13, With Replica Gun Shot Dead by Deputies
(NEWSER) – A 13-year-old boy in Santa Rosa, California, is dead after deputies mistook the replica assault rifle he was carrying for the real thing, reports the AP. Two deputies encountered Andy Lopez walking yesterday afternoon with what looked like an AK-47, reports the local Press Democrat. Police say they repeatedly ordered the youth to drop the weapon and opened fire when he didn't do so. It was only after the teen was fatally shot that deputies learned the assault rifle was a replica, as was the plastic handgun in his waistband. The shooting is under investigation.


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Country stars playing Opry House 40th anniversary show
Blake Shelton, Miranda Lambert, and Clint Black are among the stars who'll be on hand this weekend for the Grand Ole Opry House 40th anniversary celebration. The country singers will be joining Josh Turner, Diamond Rio, Bill Anderson, and others for the special show Saturday night.
The Grand Ole Opry House, which was specifically built for Opry shows, hosted its first show on March 16th, 1974. Opening night performers included Roy Acuff and President Richard Nixon -- who was the first president ever to attend an Opry show and is still the only president to perform on Opry.
That first Opry House show included a spontaneous yo-yo lesson, with Acuff attempting to teach Nixon how to use the toy. To commemorate the moment an "Opry House Yo-Yo-A-Thon" will take place in the Opry Plaza throughout the weekend, and in the process raise money for Hands On Nashville and Habitat For Humanity of Greater Nashville.
Other activities include a 5K race Saturday morning, and a signing session with the authors of "Backstage at the Grand Ole Opry." The new book gives a behind-the-scenes look at the legendary show, including stories and memories from Opry stars and over 250 photos.
Photo Credit Getty Images


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Obama's budget fails democracy promotion abroad
The Obama administration is proposing to omit a longstanding legislative provision aimed at preventing American foreign aid being blocked or manipulated by repressive foreign leaders.
The proposed removal from the administration's budget and appropriations request for next fiscal year of a provision instructing the Secretary of State not to seek the prior approval of host governments when funding non-profits and civil society groups overseas is infuriating American democracy-promotion and human-rights activists, who argue the omission marks a retreat in U.S. leadership.
They warn the Obama administration is in effect signaling to repressive regimes that they can dictate where U.S. democracy-promotion and human rights money goes in their countries—a problem the provision introduced a decade ago was meant to combat.
"This is turning the clock back to when the State Department would avoid funding civil society groups blacklisted by their governments," says Cole Bockenfeld, director of Advocacy at the Project on Middle East Democracy, a Washington DC-based non-profit.
He claims the omission will feed into perceptions the Obama administration is quietly giving up on promoting democracy especially when it comes to the Middle East.
American democracy and human-rights groups have long charged that the Obama administration has been schizophrenic in its approach to democracy advocacy and support: retreating from a "freedom agenda" and surreptitiously diminishing the Bush-era focus on democracy while at the same time talking up its commitment to democracy promotion. In a May 2011 speech, President Obama pledged to elevate the promotion of democracy and human rights to key pillars of America's foreign policy, insisting they would not be treated as secondary interests.
Read The Full Article On The Daily Beast
More articles from The Daily Beast:
- Clinton Doc: This Is How We'll Fix Health Care
- The $1 Billion Reason to Vaccinate
- Iraq Wants America Back to Fight Insurgents With Air Strikes
© 2013 Newsweek/Daily Beast Company LLC


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It appears your browser may be outdated. For the best website experience, we recommend updating your browser. learn more
PGA TOUR Sunday Night Rap: June 23, 2013
Mark Zecchino and Jim Tatti recap Ken Duke's victory at the Travelers Championship, along with all the other action from the world of golf.
© 1995-2017 PGA TOUR, Inc | All Rights Reserved.
PGA TOUR, PGA TOUR Champions, Web.com Tour, and the Swinging Golfer design are registered trademarks.
Web.com is also a registered trademark used here with permission, and used in the Web.com Tour logo with permission.


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New Treasury documents reveal President not involved with Jay-Z & Beyonce's Cuba trip
Listen to Jay-Z on iHeartRadio | Listen to Beyonce on iHeartRadio
Jay-Z and Beyonce's trip to Cuba ended in April, but the controversy surrounding it might finally be over, thanks to some newly revealed treasury documents. Though President Obama repeatedly denied any involvement in the couple's trip, new official proof has been made public.
According to "New York Magazine," a news organization called MuckRock filed a Freedom of Information Act request, in an attempt to end the debate over why and how Jay and Bey visited the country. The documents reveal that the couple went as a part of a group organized by the Sir John Soane Museum Foundation. The foundation released a statement to the magazine detailing the activities of the trip, saying that participants studied the architecture and art history of Havana.
After some Republican lawmakers prompted further inquiry into the trip in April, Jay-Z released an "Open Letter," mentioning his personal friendship with the President. Obama himself took on the matter at the White House Correspondents' Dinner, joking that he had "99 problems and Jay-Z is one of them."
Photo Credit Getty Images


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Jerry Sandusky Conviction Upheld In Pennsylvania Court
(Harrisburg, PA) -- Former Penn State assistant football coach Jerry Sandusky is being denied a new trial. Three Pennsylvania Superior Court judges handed down their opinion today. Sandusky was sentenced to 30 to 60 years behind bars in 2012 for his conviction on dozens of charges related to the sexual abuse of kids associated with his charity. His attorneys argued they weren't given enough time to prepare for the trial.


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Pop Candy: Whitney Matheson
Wednesday, July 2, 1 p.m. ET
Whitney Matheson is a columnist for the USATODAY.com Life section.
Her weekly Pop
Candy column is a rundown of the joys and terrors of pop culture.
(See the Pop
Candy archive.)
Talk live to Whitney about today's culture scene, and get her take
on what's hot and what's not.
the chat? Read the transcript below:


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Op-ed: Utah's selective application of religious freedom
First Published May 08 2017 05:48PM • Last Updated May 22 2017 03:29 pm
Reader comments on sltrib.com are the opinions of the writer, not The Salt Lake Tribune. We will delete comments containing obscenities, personal attacks and inappropriate or offensive remarks. Flagrant or repeat violators will be banned. If you see an objectionable comment, please alert us by clicking the arrow on the upper right side of the comment and selecting "Flag comment as inappropriate". If you've recently registered with Disqus or aren't seeing your comments immediately, you may need to verify your email address. To do so, visit disqus.com/account.
See more about comments here.
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Below you will find diseases or conditions that include Prolonged Rapid Heartbeat, Even While At Rest as a possible symptom. Click on the View Information link for disease or condition information.
The information contained on this site is for the sole purpose of
being informative and is not and should not be used or relied upon as medical
advice. Seek the advice of your physician, nurse
Or other qualified health care provider before you undergo any treatment or
for answers to any questions you may have regarding a medical symptom, medical condition or medical treatment.


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Bradley Manning to Live as Woman: 'I Am Chelsea'
(NEWSER) – Bradley Manning is no more. In a statement read on Today this morning, the Army private says she will live as a woman from now on. "I want everyone to know the real me. I am Chelsea Manning. I am female," reads the statement, which is signed Chelsea E. Manning. "Given the way that I feel, and have felt since childhood, I want to begin hormone therapy as soon as possible." Manning says she wants to be referred to by her new name and by a feminine pronoun, "except in official mail to the confinement facility."
Visit NBCNews.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy


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MA Gov: Restrictions On Travel Lifted In Watertown
(Watertown, MA) -- Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick is lifting the stay-indoors order put in place during the search for the marathon bombing suspect. Residents of the Boston suburb of Watertown had been asked to stay indoors to give police as much room as possible to pursue [[ Joh-har Zar-nay-ahv ]]. Heavily armed officers searched door-to-door in the area and sometimes scrambled to secure blocks of the city, but there's still no arrest.


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Agile Service Desk: Keeping Pace or Getting out Paced by New Technology?
As more organizations support increasingly mobile and heterogeneous environments, as well as remote sites and employees, the roles and needs of the IT service desk are changing. Your IT department needs to become more agile in order to keep pace with the changing IT environment.
Join systems management experts form Dell KACE in this live webinar for a quick look at the state of the service desk, and explore new requirements and tradeoffs in choosing and using a service desk solution. Then you'll learn practical ways to ensure an effective service desk in 2013 and beyond. You'll discover:
- What the most important service desk issues are facing IT today
- Why service desk integration across the organization is so important
- Why ease of use trumps other considerations when selecting a service desk solution
- Where ITIL fits in service desk implementations
- Why some point solutions may have outlived their usefulness
IT is rapidly transforming from being a cost center to becoming a strategic asset and the service desk is a key factor in the IT organizations overall success. Join us for this live event and make sure that your IT organization's service desk is as agile as it needs to be to keep pace with new technologies.


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WATCH: Disclosure release new 'F For You' with Mary J. Blige
Listen to Disclosure on iHeartRadio
Grammy-nominated duo Disclosure have turned an onstage collaboration with Mary J. Blige into something a little more permanent. They unveiled a new version of their song "F for You."
Blige and the U.K. musicians first performed together this past Sunday at New York City's Terminal 5. It was one of three gigs at the venue for Disclosure, who also made their U.S. television debut Monday night on NBC's "Late Night with Jimmy Fallon."
Up next they're expected to attend Sunday's Grammy Awards in Los Angeles, where their debut album "Settle" is up for Best Dance Album.
Check out the new "F for You" featuring Mary J. Blige below!


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Gal Gadot To Play First Big Screen Wonder Woman
The upcoming Superman-Batman movie now has a Wonder Woman. Gal Gadot, who has appeared several films in the "Fast & Furious" franchise, has been cast to play the DC Comics superheroine and her alter ego Diana Prince in the "Man of Steel" sequel. Gadot will have the distinction of being the first actress to play Wonder Woman on the big screen. Lynda Carter famously played the character in the 1970s TV series of the same name. Due out in 2015, the still-untitled "Man Of Steel" sequel will star Henry Cavill in his second turn as Superman and Clark Kent, and Ben Affleck who is making his debut in the Batman-Bruce Wayne role.
The Israel-born Gadot is a model and 2004 Miss Universe contestant. She has appeared in three "Fast & Furious" films, including this year's "Fast & Furious 6." In a statement announcing her casting as Wonder Woman, director Zack Snyder called Gal an "amazing actress" who also has "that magical quality that makes her perfect for the role."


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The court will not collect the money for you. But the court will issue the orders and other documents you may need to collect your judgment from the debtor (the party that owes you money). Keep in mind that not all judgments are collectable because the debtor may not have any income or property of value.
For more information, read:
There are some initial steps you can take:
Read Tips for Collecting Your Judgment for more information on how to start the process of collecting the judgment. And for specific ways you can collect your judgment, read Ways to Collect From the Debtor.


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Daredevil Attempts To Cross Atlantic Using Helium Balloons
A North Carolina man is attempting to cross the Atlantic Ocean in a rubber boat held aloft by more than 350 helium balloons. Jonathan Trappe took to the air from Caribou, Maine this morning. Before launching, Trappe told London's "Daily Mail" he's relying on favorable weather to help him make the 2500 mile journey. The 39-year-old daredevil hopes to complete the crossing in six days. Three years ago he became the first person to fly over the Alps and the English Channel using a similar setup.


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262 Carlingview Dr., Toronto, ON, Canada, M9W 5G1
Phone: (416) 674-8442 Fax: (416) 674-3088
**Free Airport Transportation**
The award-winning Quality Suites® Toronto Airport is located within minutes from Toronto Pearson International Airport and close to local points of interest including Woodbine Racetrack, the International Centre multipurpose facility, Canada's Wonderland theme park, York University (home of the BlackCreek Summer Music Festival), Humber College and Black Creek Pioneer Village.
All spacious two-room suites at this Toronto airport hotel have separate bedrooms with king beds and televisions. French doors separate bedrooms from living rooms, which feature sofa sleepers, coffee makers and dining room tables with chairs. Some suites come equipped with refrigerators and microwaves. Handicap accessible and non-smoking rooms are available.
Corporate travellers appreciate meeting and banquet rooms accommodating up to 120. The on-site restaurant, Graffiti's Italian Eatery & Saloon, is popular with guests and locals and offers room service. A newsstand and gift shop is located on the property. Be sure to inquire about the hotel's Stay & Fly packages.
This Toronto hotel features many high-value amenities, including:
Check-In Time: 15:00 Check-Out Time: 11:00 Guest Rooms: 253


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Avril Lavigne and Chad Kroeger tie the knot & throw all-nighter wedding
Listen to Avril Lavigne on iHeartRadio | Listen to Nickelback on iHeartRadio
(Yahoo!) - It's officially official! Avril Lavigne, 28, and Chad Kroeger, 38, really tied the knot in the South of France on Monday ... although the wedding raged on until Tuesday morning!
The pair's Cannes nuptials were prematurely called over the weekend after Lavigne's rep Mike Heller, CEO of Talent Resources, tweeted Saturday: "I'm in south of France about to see my little Rok star #avril get married I am so happy to be part of this special celebration."
The couple has been hosting friends and family all weekend, kicking off a three-day (technically, four-day) "black-tie fairytale" celebration with a dinner and party Saturday night, which inspired the Heller tweet that launched the confusion.
"Chad and Avril had a very romantic wedding that went all night," sources tell omg!. And "all night" isn't an understatement...
Insiders tell omg! that dinner wasn't even served until 1:30 a.m. Tuesday morning and the cake wasn't cut until 3:30 a.m.!
"The party went on until 6 in the morning," continues omg!'s source.
On Monday, which was not so coincidentally Canada Day, the singer and Nickelback frontman finally exchanged vows in a ceremony Lavigne planned herself.
"I've been doing it, I'm the girl," she told Us Weekly in June. "I'm the one who has the crazy vision and he's letting me be me. It's a lot and I just want to make sure I really enjoy this amazing time."
Photo Credit Getty Images


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Birthday Parties
Have your child's birthday party at the Houston Arboretum and Nature Center! Celebrate your child's birthday Arboretum style with one of the following themes:
Signs of Nature
Be a nature detective! Although many animals
Slithery Snakes
Dive into this fascinating group of reptiles and learn what makes them so intriguing. Find out which snakes call the Arboretum home, and enjoy taking a guided walk in search of some slithering snakes.
Awesome Amphibians
Did you know frogs and salamanders belong to
Brilliant Birds
The Arboretum is a wonderful place to learn about our feathered friends. Explore the characteristics of birds and experience the skill it takes to build a nest.
Incredible Insects
Become an entomologist and learn what all insects have in common. Observe some captive insects and look for wild ones in their outdoor habitats.
How to schedule a party:
Fill out the birthday inquiry form.
Date availability will be confirmed by the Birthday Party Manager within 2 business days. Your reservation is not confirmed until we receive full payment. The party manager will email you your party confirmation upon payment.
General information:
Ages: 4 and up
Days: Saturdays, Sundays and weekday afternoons
Times: 10 a.m., 12:30, or 3:00 p.m.
Schedule: Parties are scheduled for two hours.
15 minutes before the party you may access the party room to setup and decorate.
30 minute Naturalist program (begins 15 minutes after start of party)
45 minutes for the celebration and refreshments
30 minute Naturalist led tour (parents will designate someone to clean up party room during tour)
$325 for members (Family Tree or above);
$380 for non-members;
$400 for Party plus Family membership.
(maximum of 20 children).
Payment in full is required to confirm your reservation.
HANC souvenir party favor bags may be purchased starting at $5 each. Possible bag contents could include pencils, a bug box, magnifying glass, stickers, flashlight or various animal items. The bag contents vary.
HANC provides a Naturalist led program (see theme options above). During the Naturalist's lesson time, socializing and adult conversation must be limited to the hallway and/or other public spaces of the building. The Naturalist will require classroom silence for the lesson.
Refreshments are only permitted in the party room. Alcohol is not permitted. The Arboretum does not provide refreshments.
You may arrive 15 minutes before your party to set up. The Arboretum will provide tables, table coverings and chairs. You are responsible for providing and setting up decorations, refreshments, paper goods, and utensils. No silly string, confetti or tape on the walls.
Arboretum parties always have an outdoor component. Children should dress for a short hike outside (closed toe shoes are best)
Parent/chaperone supervision during the birthday party is required. Children are not permitted in the Discovery Room without parent supervision.
In case of severe weather an alternate indoor program is provided.Mosquitos:
The Arboretum will provide mosquito repellent as needed.
For a 50% refund of your party fee, cancellations must be made in writing and acknowledged by the Party Manager no later than 10 days in advance.


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Vince Gill honored to sing on Ray Price's last album
Listen to Vince Gill on iHeartRadio | Listen to Ray Price on iHeartRadio
Vince Gill says he glad he contributes to Ray Price's final album, Beauty Is...
He tells Rolling Stone he "thought the world" of the late country legend, calling Price "the real deal." Gill adds that it "meant a lot" to him to provide "good harmony singing" and not simply background vocals, because on Ray's records "the harmony singer was a big deal."
Vince says he only wishes he could have actually teamed up with Ray in the studio to record the songs, but at the time Ray "was battling health issues" so they "didn't have that luxury."
The Country Music Hall of Famer died of pancreatic cancer last December, just a few weeks before his 88th birthday.
Gill is featured on two songs on the album -- "Beauty Lies in the Eyes of the Beholder" and "Until Then." The album also includes the Martina McBride's duet "An Affair to Remember."
Price's Beauty Is... is in stores now.
Photo Credit Getty Images


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Robin Thicke Reveals 'Paula' Tracklist, Cover
Listen to Robin Thicke on iHeartRadio
Robin Thicke isn't giving up on his campaign to win back Paula Patton. The star has unveiled the album cover and tracklist for his new release dropping on July 1st.
He's calling it Paula, and making no secret of the fact that it's dedicated to his recently estranged wife.
Among the 14 song titles are "You're My Fantasy," "Love Can Grow Back," "Forever Love" and "Still Madly Crazy." None of them appear to include any featured artists. Also included is "Get Her Back," which Thicke premiered at the Billboard Music Awards earlier this year.
In an interview on Steve Harvey's radio show, the singer revealed that it took him about one week to write the whole album. Robin says considering their 20 years together, he "had a lot to talk about." He also adds that he's "gotta impress her somehow."