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OffBEAT with Nico & Vinz
Listen to Nico & Vinz Radio on iHeartRadio
Nico & Vinz's "Am I Wrong?" has taken the country by storm this year. The Norwegian duo has come a long way, and through their hard work and talent, have made their dreams come true. And that, they tell us, is actually the inspiration for their hit song.
The guys tell iHeartRadio, "We always had huge dreams, but we're from a very small country. It's not normal, it's not usual for people from very small countries to blow up in the world or be global artists. We've always had that dream. We had that vision, we want our music, we want our songs, our lyrics to reach out to as many people as possible. Coming from Norway, people might doubt you a little bit, of course, so we sat down and thought 'Are we wrong? Is it wrong of us to believe in this? Can we make this happen? Why can't we make this happen? Why can't we be on billboards like Rihanna and Katy Perry?' We wrote the lyrics, 'Am I wrong for thinking we can be something for real? Am I tripping for having a vision, my prediction, I'm going to be on top of the world'.
They continue, "I hope that can inspire people all over the world to see that everything is possible. Everything is possible."
Well, fans should definitely keep their ears out for Nico & Vinz, because "Am I Wrong?" is only the beginning. The guys have been working on their album Black Star Elephant over the last year-and-a-half.
"This album is so personal to us. We feel like we found a sound that is very unique and very new. It's personal, it's us." The guys add, "We have a lot of messages where we have this vision with our music that we hope that our songs and our music can have a positive impact on your life somehow."
By the way, Black Star Elephant represents both Nico and Vinz. The black star represents Vinz because of his Ghana roots - the country's soccer team calls themselves "the black stars." And the elephant represents Nico and his Ivory Coast background. Their national soccer team's nickname is "the elephants."
Nico & Vinz stopped by the iHeartRadio Studios recently to talk to us about their smash hit "Am I Wrong?" and everything else BUT the music.
Check out OffBEAT with Nico & Vinz below:
What have you been wrong about?
Nico: When I was younger I wanted to be a professional soccer player. I could say that I was wrong because it didn't work out. I tried, it just didn't work.
Vinz: At some point I wanted to be a skier coming from Oslo, Norway. I was like 5 or 6, though. Skier. Like downhill. That wasn't really my thing after all.
What happened to Envy?
Nico: Envy died out. Envy died out because there were too many Envys out there. We always had this vision of being unique, being original. I think that our name had to be original, too. There were too many corporations, DJs, bands, groups called Envy, so we figured we needed something original. We need something that's us. And that is Nico & Vinz!
What inspires you?
Vinz: People that set out to do something and then do it. More than anything. That could be in any field. We even look at our parents coming from villages in the west of Africa. Nico's father is from the Ivory Coast. My parents are from Ghana. Seeing them come from nothing all the way over to Norway building a foundation, having a family, and then seeing their sons traveling the world and playing music and talking to people. I think that whole thing, just coming from nothing to build something. That. Even that just inspires us a whole lot. I think that mentality has stuck with us growing up.
If you guys were a South African animal, which one would you be?
Nico: Wow! I've always loved the giraffe. I don't know why I like the giraffe, but I think it's really majestic and beautiful. I think, I'm not sure, but I feel like it's not really threatened by other animals.
Vinz: Me too. Although, actually I would say elephant, but elephant is a little slow, though. I like fast. Maybe like a cheetah. Fast. I like that.
What Norwegian stereotypes are you tired of hearing?
Vinz: All Norwegians are white.
Nico: Blond hair and blue eyes. They're more than that in Norway. Norway has one of the best salmons, actually. And then they ask us about everything that has to do with winter. They think it's freezing over there all the time, everybody's cold. When we come here people are like "you guys must never have experienced heat!" We're like "it's pretty warm during the summer." We like to teach people things about our country. Bring our culture over here and show what we are and where we come from.
If you guys had a time machine, where and when would you travel to?
Vinz: I would say, actually, I wouldn't trade this moment for anything. Everything we came, have done, up until now, I wouldn't change anything. I wouldn't go back or forward in time because this is it. Everything we've gone through has made us who we are and now we're actually living our dreams. This is the moment. The future is the future, so whatever the future holds, we'll get to that when that comes.
Nico: I know I would definitely not go into the future. I would go back. I wouldn't want to see what's going to happen for us or for me. We're working towards, and we have this imagination, and that's what's driving us. I would definitely go back, if anything. Maybe I would go back to when my dad was a kid because I don't have ... He grew up in Africa and I don't have any pictures of him as a kid. I don't know what he looked like. I have one picture of him as a baby. I've always wanted to see what his family, what my uncles were like when they were young. How they lived back in the Ivory Coast. I have a lot of family in the Ivory Coast and I have some that's come over to Norway.
Nico, if you didn't get into music, do you think you would've tried to go out for soccer professionally?
Nico: Definitely, I would have tried as long as I could, as hard as I could. It was a transition when I stopped playing soccer that I still can't explain to people why I stopped. I loved it so much, it was my first love. It was everything I thought I was going to do in life, but it just gradually went over into music. Actually, the guy who is our manager to date, he's the one who inspired me to start with music. We used to play together in soccer and he was also into music, so he inspired me. I just felt like I had a talent there as well, so I might as well try it. I always loved music as well, but like I said, soccer was my first love and something I always thought I was going to do.
Vinz, what was the first rapper or rap song that you heard that really got you into that music?
Vinz: I was really into Xzibit. X to the Z, Xzibit. Of course, Dre, Snoop, and Eminem as well. West Coast. Those four, and Tupac. I bought the Up In Smoke Tour when I was 10 or 11. 12. I saw them on stage. I was like "yo this is crazy!"
Nico: I was more into the East Coast rappers. I was into the East Coast. New York rap reminded me of what we had at home. In the videos you see people go through snow and stuff, right? We have a lot of snow at home as well. To see the videos of them with their headphones on and their baggy pants and walking around and rapping. It connected with us because we were doing the same at home. I was into New York rappers. Nas, Jay-Z, everything from the OC to Pete Rock and CL Smooth, and all of that.
Get to know the guys even better when iHeartRadio's Paul The Web Guy chats with the duo!
Check out the guys smash hit "Am I Wrong?" below!
Photos: Katherine Tyler for iHeartRadio


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Google Olympic Doodle Honors Gay Rights
(NEWSER) – As the Sochi Olympics kick off, Google has taken a swipe at Russia's record on gay rights with its latest doodle. The doodle features images of winter athletes on the rainbow colors of the gay pride flag, along with a pointed quote from the Olympic Charter, Business Insiderreports. "The practice of sport is a human right," the quote reads. "Every individual must have the possibility of practicing sport, without discrimination of any kind and in the Olympic spirit, which requires mutual understanding with a spirit of friendship, solidarity, and fair play." The doodle appears on Google homepages in every country, including Russia, Mashable notes.

subset: commoncrawl


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Kris and Bruce Jenner hold hands at airport after Thailand trip
Kris and Bruce Jenner may be separated, but they aren't shying away from PDA.
The estranged spouses were photographed holding hands at LAX on Wednesday, after the Kardashian-Jenners returned from their family trip to Thailand.
Kris and Bruce, who announced their split in October after 22 years of marriage, vowed to keep relations amicable, despite tabloid reports to the contrary.
Looks like things now might be better than ever.
Photo Credit Splash News


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Christina Aguilera teams up with A Great Big World for new song
Listen to Christina Aguilera on iHeartRadio | Listen to A Great Big World on iHeartRadio
Christina Aguilera has teamed up with pop duo A Great Big World to perform their song "Say Something" next week on "The Voice."
If A Great Big World sounds familiar to you, it's probably because you've heard their song "This Is The New Year," which was featured on an episode of "Glee" (see video below). Now, the singer/songwriter pair, made up of Ian Axel and Chad Vaccarino, were handpicked by Xtina to perform with her on her hit show.
Christina says, "I'm only taking on projects that feel good to me and represent a purpose of the 'here and now' in my life, and that's what this song 'Say Something' actually does for me." She tweeted about the collaboration Thursday, with a link to a behind-the-scenes look at the recording of the song.
Love #SaySomething by @AGreatBigWorld. We recorded it together & performing it live on @NBCTheVoice next week! xo http://t.co/G6j3VVWSCO— Christina Aguilera (@xtina) November 1, 2013
Check out the video:
A Great Big World's debut album, Is There Anybody Out There?, will be available for pre-order November 4th.
Check out their video for "This Is The New Year":


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Paula Deen fired by Food Network after the TV chef admits using N-word in past
The Food Network is putting a fork in Paula Deen's TV cooking shows. The network announced Friday it would not renew Deen's contract when it expires at the end of the month. The move follows a week of controversy over the celebrity chef's casual admission to using the racially-charged N-word during a deposition for a pending lawsuit. Deen also offered a public apology on Friday.
In an earlier statement on Thursday, Deen blamed her use of the word on her Southern upbringing. The celebrity chef is being sued by a former employee who claims she was subjected to racist, sexist and inappropriate remarks while working as a manager at Deen's Oyster House restaurant in Georgia.
WATCH: Paula Deen fries a Cheesecake
WATCH: Paula Deen Eats a Lasagna Sandwich:
WATCH: Paula Deen's Doughnut, cheeseburger, bacon and egg sandwich (aka: The heart attack!):
And then there's this...


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Why the 'Duck Dynasty' Controversy Could Hurt Democrats
Until very recently I had no idea who or what Duck Dynasty was. But now I, along with the rest of the English-speaking world, know far more about Duck Dynastythan I care to. But I am preparing myself for the reality that I will be hearing those two words endlessly over the course of the next year. Because unlike many media scandals that come and go after a 24 hour news cycle, I believe the Duck Dynastycontroversy will have legs. Not only will the controversy linger, it might reignite the culture war that has traditionally hurt Democrats, especially in off-year elections when older, whiter voters have turned out more.
On Friday, A&E announced that it would welcome Duck Dynasty star Phil Robertson back into the fold.
The move was no doubt motivated by the fact that a petition in support of Robertson garnered more than a quarter of a million signatures and his album sales (yes, apparently he and his family have an album) shot through the roof.
For those of you living under a rock (or like Sarah Palin didn't bother to read the controversial comments in question) Robertson described what he considers sinful during an interview with GQ: "Start with homosexual behavior and just morph out from there. Bestiality, sleeping around with this woman and that woman and that woman and those men."
Despite the fact that in the next quote Robertson also quotes scripture to denounce those who commit adultery, drink too much, and slander others as sinners, he was roundly denounced as a bigot and hate monger, particularly in progressive and liberal leaning news outlets.
This is precisely what will prove problematic for President Obama and the Democratic Party in the upcoming midterm elections.
Though nearly half of the country opposes same-sex marriage, the media narrative has become dominated by the storyline that only a small segment of backward bigots who hate gay people oppose same-sex marriage. That simply isn't true. (Reinforcing bias in reporting on this story is the fact that many outlets caved to pressure to use the term "marriage equality" in coverage, when such a term is an activist creation. Interracial marriage is called interracial marriage, not "marriage equality." If supporters of same-sex marriage view the civil rights fights as comparable, the same language standard should be applied.)
Polls also show 59 percent of Americans now find same-sex couples morally acceptable. That means there are plenty of Americans who don't have a problem with gay couples but seem to have a problem with the word "marriage" being used to define their relationships.
Among my family members who oppose same-sex marriage, I have been told to congratulate my gay friends whose weddings I have attended. But I have simultaneously been told that such unions don't fit my relatives' biblical definition of marriage. I have further been told that in the context of the oft repeated phrase "love the sinner, hate the sin," they see gay people no differently than they would view a straight person like me who decides to live with someone "in sin" (as the biblical saying goes). It wouldn't make me a bad person but one who according to biblical text would be "living in sin." In other words, they wouldn't throw holy water on me but also wouldn't throw me a parade. Most of all, they wouldn't really care how I live my romantic life at all, as long as I was happy.
There's a big gulf between the relatives I describe and someone who "hates" gay people. The fact that so many liberals can't see the difference speaks to the tremendous gulf that has grown in recent years between the increasingly vocal liberal wing of the Democratic Party and, well...everyone else.
Read The Full Article On The Daily Beast
More articles from The Daily Beast:
- The New, Not Necessarily Improved, Chris Christie
- The Top 10 Diets of 2013 Are All Useless (Except to Book Publishers)
- Edward Snowden and Pope Francis Broke America's Political Deadlock in 2013
© 2013 Newsweek/Daily Beast Company LLC


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Report: Paula Deen going to pot on QVC
(TMZ) - If you're lookin' for Paula Deen's pots and pans, you better jump fast, because it looks like her shelf-life on QVC is about to expire.
Deen - who appears on the product-hawking network to pitch her cookware - may lose her platform over the "n-word" revelations, TMZ reports.
According to TMZ, a rep for the network says they have "concerns [over] the unfortunate Paula Deen situation." The rep adds, "Please know that QVC does not tolerate discriminatory behavior."
QVC says, "We are closely monitoring these events and we are reviewing our business relationship with Ms. Deen. In the meantime, we have no immediate plans to have her appear on QVC."
Translation - They're waiting to see which way the wind blows.
Photo Credit Getty Images


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Former KISS members Ace Frehley and Peter Criss reunite for all-star jam
(Yahoo!) - "Anyone who says that Ace Frehley and Peter Criss are a couple of drunken losers, you tell them to f*** themselves!" exclaimed "That Metal Show" host and radio personality Eddie Trunk at the New York Hard Rock Café on October 25 during a party to celebrate his 30th year on the air.
The comment came after the two former members of KISS took the stage together for the first time in 13 years and performed tight, energetic versions of the KISS songs "Love Her All I Can" and "Rock And Roll All Night" with Anthrax guitarist Scott Ian and bassist Frank Bello, and Guns N' Roses guitarist Ron "Bumblefoot" Thal. Former Dream Theater drummer Mike Portney (Winery Dogs) joined in on the latter. He also served as talent coordinator and house drummer for the entire event and put together a lineup that featured many of Trunk's musician friends playing songs by his favorite bands.
The five-song KISS mini-set began with "Got To Choose," performed by Portney, Thal, Ian, and Bello. Then the band introduced Frehley; and the hard-rock legend played guitar and sang lead vocals on "Parasite," which he wrote for the band's second album, 1974's Hotter Than Hell. To the surprise of many, Frehley left the stage when Criss came on to play "Hooligan," his song from 1977's Love Gun.
"I couldn't remember how to play that one," Frehley admitted when he returned for "Love Her All I Can."
The crowd members sang along to "Rock and Roll All Night" as if they were at an actual KISS concert, though the volume wasn't quite as deafening due to the size of the venue.
Photo Credit Getty Images


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WATCH: Celebrities read mean tweets on 'Jimmy Kimmel' part 6
Jimmy Kimmel's "Celebrities Read Mean Tweets" feature is one of his most popular segments, so we're stoked that there's a brand new one!
Check out celebs reading mean tweets, part 6, featuring George Clooney, Jon Hamm, Cate Blanchett, Matt Damon & more below.
Check out the previous editions of the funny feature below.
Part 5:
Part 4:
Part 3:
Part 2:
Part 1:


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Members of our Pet Communities share their Halloween pet photos.
Your complete nutrition playbook for a healthy lifestyle.
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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Shaquille O'Neal will undergo surgery to repair ligaments in his sprained right thumb.
O'Neal flew to Baltimore lead team physician Dr. Richard Parker to be examined at the National Hand Center. The Center's Dr. Thomas Graham will perform the surgery assisted by Parker.
It was determined that the best course of action would be surgery that will end the 7-foot-3 center's regular season.
A source with knowledge of the situation said that O'Neal will miss 6-9 weeks but should be available for the playoffs.
O'Neal injured the thumb during Thursday's game against the Boston Celtics. It now means that abundance of big men that caused minute problems just a week ago has turned into a huge advantage.
In his place expect to see more of Leon Powe and J.J. Hickson both playing at the power forward spot and center, positions that are interchangeable in coach Mike Brown's offense.
Cavs 128, Raptors 116
In a nutshell:
I take no responsibilty for this blog because it was written on fumes. I am dragging. Up at 4 a.m. to miss bad weather. Hiking to make a gate to get to Toronto so I could cover the game. This is the stuff books and bad television shows are made.
But let's forget about that. There was a game played tonight and as good as the Cavs looked against the Celtics for three quarters, they looked that bad against the Raptors tonight. Perhaps it is a work and progress and they showed what they will eventually become on Thursday. Cavs fans should hope so.
In the meantime, the Raptors kept the game close by working the pick-and-pop and pick-and-roll well much of the game. Andrea Bargnani and Hedo Turkoglu torched the Cavs from outside and drov to the hoop as well.
For four quarters, the Cavs had no real answers on defense giving up a 12-point lead in the first half and a seven-point lead in the game's final minutes. Then: click. In overtime that was it - everything came together on both sides of the court. Defensively they finally got stops as the Raptors shot 1-for-8 in overtime. The Cavs hit 5-of-9 with two huge three-pointers coming courtesy of Mo Williams who, after a second solid outing, is no longer struggling.
What did the Cavs do right - they finally got stops through sheer will. The offense was there all night as they shot better than 50 percent during regulation. Their defensive issues are what frustrate. There's little doubt that Shaquille O'Neal's absence played a role, but this has been a consistent theme with them for close to ten games.
Luckily for them, Mike Brown has time to work on it.
Game: Cavs at Toronto Raptors
TV: FSOhio Radio: WAKR (1590 AM); WTAM (1100 AM), WHBC (1480 AM)
Cavs: LeBron James (F); Antawn Jamison (F); Anderson Varejao (C); Anthony Parker (G); Mo Williams (G).
Raptors: Andrea Bargnani (F); Hedo Turkoglu (F); Rasho Nesterovic (C); DeMar DeRozan (G); Jarrett Jack (G).
Injured: Cavs: Shaquille O'Neal (right thumb sprain) - OUT, Sebastian Telfair (groin) - OUT. Raptors: Chris Bosh (sprained left ankle) - OUT.
Officials: Bill Spooner, Eric Lewis and Leroy Richardson.
Call it the catching the break tour. The Cavs missed Paul Pierce last night in Boston due to injury and tonight they don't have to deal with Chris Bosh who is out with an injured ankle.
That certainly doesn't make this thing easy. The Raptors give the Cavs plenty of problems, especially Bargnani who is a big who feasts on the Cavs from the outside (sound familiar?) averages 23.5 per ge agaisnt them this year. And of course they still have Hedo Turkoglu to worry about from the outside as well.
The Cavs will want to build on the defensive momentum they gathered last night in Boston.
According to a report from WKNR's afternoon-drive host and former voice of the Cavs, former center Zydrunas Ilgauskas will be the team's future center when he's eligible to do so.
The Washington Wizards bought Ilgauskas out of his coutract with them Thursday. The Cavs traded the 12-year veteran in a three-team deal that brought forward Antawn Jamison to the Cavaliers.
But Ilgauskas' agent, Herb Rudoy, vehemently disputes the report saying there is no truth to it. Ilgauskas won't be making up his mind until well into next week, Rudoy said.
The Cavs have the $1.9 million bi-annual exemption to pay Ilgauskas or the $1.3 million veteran's minimum with which to work to lure him. But so do the Denver Nuggets and Dallas Mavericks, two Western Conference teams that have express a great interest in the 7-foot-3 center.
So what will happen? If I were a betting man, I'd say that Ilgauskas returns to the Cavs on March 22. Some of this is posturing to ensure he's paid the former rather than the latter.
After the heartfelt statements LeBron James made prior to Thursday's Celtics game, I'd be shocked if he ended up anywhere else.
Cavaliers center Shaquille O'Neal left last night's game at Boston in the second quarter with a significant right thumb sprain. He did not return to the game and is listed as OUT for tonight's game at Toronto. He will be re-evaluated today in Toronto and his status will be updated as appropriate.
The Cavs recalled forward Darnell Jackson from the Erie BayHawks to bolster the bench.
No news here, but the Washington Wizards bought out center Zydrunas Ilgauskas' contract Thursday and waived him, freeing him to sign with any NBA team.
Were he to sign with the Cavaliers, he would have to wait 30 from the date of the trade. The earliest he can return to the Cavs is March 21.
But the Cavs made a move Wednesday that should get some attention. They sent forward Darnell Jackson and rookie guard Danny Green to the Erie Bayhawks, their D-League affiliate for what could be as many as three games, coach Mike Brown said.
If the Cavs get Ilgauskas back, someone will have to go. The Cavs have three options - Sebastian Telfair, Jackson or Green. It's a possibility that these two or three games will be the most important, so far, of their young careers.
Cavs 108, Celtics 88
There was disbelief among some of those on press row (include me) and even some mocking (check Twitter feeds) of the Cavs' defense in the first quarter against the Celtics. What wasn't there to make fun of?
Sixteen points in the paint in the first five minutes and change? Celtics point guard Rajon Rondo having his way with the Cavs defense? I'd not be surprised if more than a few flat panel televisions got busted Thursday night.
But it was the tale of two halves as the Cavs turned things around in the second half, holding the Celtics to just 9-of-41 shooting in the final two quarters to embarrass Boston in a game that they should have won handily.
The Cavs lost Shaquille O'Neal in the second quarter and were forced to go with a quicker, more athletic - albeit smaller - lineup. The end result was team that created organized chaos for the Boston.
After the way they started, no one can do anything but marvel at how they finished. They defensive intensity that had been lacking for most of the last seven or so games.
Game: Cavs (45-14) at Boston Celtics (36-20)
Radio: WAKR (1590 AM); WTAM (1100 AM), WHBC (1480 AM).
Cavs: LeBron James (F); Antawn Jamison (F); Shaquille O'Neal (C); Anthony Parker (G); Mo Williams (G).
Celtics: Marquis Daniels (F); Kevin Garnett (F); Kendrick Perkins (C) Ray Allen (G); Rajon Rondo (G).
Cavs: Sebastian Telfair - groing (OUT). Celtics: Paul Pierce.
Officials: Scott Foster, David Jones and Sean Wright.
Big news tonight is that Paul Pierce won't play. Pierce is listed as being out indefinitely with a thumb injury. That puts Ray Allen into the starting lineup. Allen averages 19.7 points per game against the Cavs. But they will miss Pierce's 21.2 points per game against the Cavs and no one on the Celtics got up for LeBron James like Pierce.
The wild card tonight is going to be Garnett. Is he healthy? His play has been more consistent of late, averaging double figures the past five games. And the Celtics have won seven of their last 10. It will be interesting to see how Antawn Jamison matches up with Garnett on the defensive side of the court. Defense hasn't been his strong suit throughout his career.
Lastly, the Cavs need point guard Mo Williams back in form. He's been shaking off the rust. In the process his shot has been flat and he hasn't been close to accurate from the floor. He will also have his hands full guarding Rajon Rondo, who has only gotten better as the season has gone on.
According to Michael Lee of the Washington Post, the Washington Wizards have reached a buyout agreement with Zydrunas Ilgauskas.
A source told Lee that an announcement is expected today. The terms include Ilgauskas paying back between $1 million and $1.5 million of his $11.5 million contract.
The Cavs traded Ilgauskas to Washington as part of a three-team trade that sent Antawn Jamison to Cleveland.
Ilgauskas has to wait 30 days to play for Cleveland, which would be on March 21. He can sign and play for another team immediately.
The Denver Nuggets are expected to strongly pursue Ilgauskas.
Mark Warkentien, vice president of basketball operations for Denver, has been in touch with Ilgauskas' agent Herb Rudoy. Warkentien previously served as Cleveland's director of player personnel.
"He had a great relationship with 'Z' (back in Cleveland)," Rudoy told the Post. "Mark has been very aggressive to convince me to convince 'Z.' "
Tonight's the night for Leon Powe.
After watching for the better part of the season, he'll dress for tonight's game against the New Orleans Hornets. He's under no grand illusion about his role, but he is looking to contribute.
''It's been a long time coming. I just want to get out there and help my team win,'' he said. ''I just need to get my rhythm back and timing. We'll see what happens tonight.''
Powe will face an issue that has nothing to do with his surgically repaired left knee – the availability of minutes. With seven of them on the roster, he could find himself fighting for leftovers.
''I'm not worried about nothing. I believe in my game,'' he said. ''I've been on a team with a lot of big men already, we won a championship.'
Cavs 105, Hornets 95
A win is a win is a win is a...Cliche but true as the Cavs snapped their three-losing streak in an unimpressive fashion.
But there are still too many problems on the defensive side of the court that the Cavs have to get corrected. They weren't very physical tonight as the Hornets beat them in transition and scored on too many layups and uncontested jumpers. Consequently, New Orleans shot 50 percent from the floor, a disturbing trend that dates back before the All-Star break.
Quite simply there are things that need to be fixed before the Cavs can dream of championships.
Game: Cavs (44-14) vs. New Orleans Hornets (30-27) Broadcast:
TV: FSOhio Radio: WAKR (1590 AM); WTAM (1100 AM), WHBC (1480 AM). Starters:
Cavs: LeBron James (F); Antawn Jamison (F); Shaquille O'Neal (C); Anthony Parker (G); Mo Williams (G).
Hornets: David West (F); Peja Stojakovic (F); Emeka Okafor (C); Morris Peterson (G); Darren Collison (G). Injured:
Cavs: Here's a first - they're completely healthy.
Hornets: Chris Paul (left knee surgery); Darius Songaila (sprained right ankle); Ike Diogu (left knee surgery).
Officials: Tom Washington, Pat Fraher, Marat Kogut.
The Cavs may have thought they'd gotten a break with Chris Paul missing time with left knee surgery. Not so. Up steps Darren Collison, the rookie from UCLA, who is averaging 17.9 points, 8.2 steals and 3.9 rebounds in Paul's place. Nice. Oh, forgot to mention the triple-double.
The Hornets come in on a two-game winning streak and it's not a team that has nothing for which to play. They are just one game out - with a winning record - for the eighth seed in the Western Conference. Were they playing in the East, they'd own the sixth seed.
The Cavs on the other hand, have lost three in a row and are looking for themselves after bringing in Antawn Jamison to bolster the lineup. Jamison gets his first start tonight and it's his Quicken Loans Arena debut. After an abysmal performance Friday, he played much better against the Orlando Magic Sunday. But the Cavs' overall dilemma right now is the inability to defend.
They got back to who they were in the second half Sunday, but it was too little too late.
Forgive me for not posting this last week, but I was on vacation and when a crappy Internet connection Puerto Rico wouldn't allow me to update the blog regularly, I took it as a sign that I should perhaps actually vacation. Oh dopey me.
Don't worry about me. Love the 85 degree weather, the ocean, the mojitos, daiquiris, pina coladas and the tour of the Bacaardi rum distillery. Based on those attributes alone, I will begin a campaign to make that island territory a state.
As you might guess, the Cavs tumbled in power rankings in the past week. A major trade and three consecutive losses will wreak havoc with you like that.
John Hollinger - math guru extraordinaire and all-around formula genius - has the Cavs ranked fourth based on his headache inducing formula. This shouldn't be a shock to anyone who is reasonable.
And if you're not, try this dose of reality from Hollinger's compatriot at ESPN, Marc Stein:
Cavaliers coach Mike Brown made things official today, naming Antawn Jamison a starter for tonight's game against the New Orleans Hornets.
Jamison, who was acquired in a trade with the Washington Wizards last week, spent his first two games in a Cavs uniform coming off the bench.
But against the Orlando Magic on Sunday, he started the second half and was productive in the process, scoring 19 points and pulling down eight rebounds.
His move into the starting lineup wasn't unexpected. Brown said that he was leaning in that direction Monday and it was probably the correct one.
Jamison looked more comfortable in a starting role and his presence means that Shaquille O'Neal and LeBron James will not see as many double teams.
The Cavs will enter the game on a three-game losing streak.
Mike Brown said Tuesday that he's leaning toward starting Antawn Jamison, the All-Star power forward recently acquired in a trade with the Washington Wizards.
Jamison had a rather rocky debut Friday night against the Charlotte Bobcats going 0-12 from the court and scoring two points total. Sunda against the Orlando Magic he fared much better scoring 17 points and grabbing eight rebounds in a loss. But the primary difference then: most of his points were picked up in the second half after he began it in the starting lineup.
Brown could always change his mind, but at this point it doesn't seem likely.
Magic 101, Cavs 96
In a nutshell:
A slow start doomed the Cavs to their third consecutive defeat Sunday afternoon in their nationally televised game. Offensively, there was little in the way of flow. As they shot just 38 percent in the first quarter. Things got progressively better heading into the second, but they still found themselves down by six points to end the first half.
Defensively, they looked just as bad as they'd played the past five games. The Magic shot 58 percent from the floor in those first two quarters. Things changed in the third. The Cavs opened on a 16-4 run. Played their best defense since way before the All-Star break and looked to be on their way.
What has been made clear after Antawn Jamison's performance starting the second half is that he'll be starting sooner rather than later. And that it should be.
Game: Cavs vs. Orlando Magic
TV: ABC (WEWS Chanel 5 locally)
Radio: WAKR (1590 AM); WTAM (1100 AM), WHBC (1480 AM)
Cavs: LeBron James (F); J.J. Hickson(F); Shaquille O'Neal (C); Anthony Parker (G); Mo Williams (G).
Magic: Matt Barnes (F); Rashard Lewis (F); Dwight Howard (C); Vince Carter (G); Jameer Nelson (G).
Injured: Leon Powe (left knee surgery) - OUT.
Officials: Joe DeRosa, Tony Brown and Gary Zielinski.
Put all the trash talk aside (you know, Shaq's "Superman my ass" quote) and the Orlando Magic would be sniffing blood to begin anyway. The Cavs have lost two in a row and right now resemble the team that started the season, not the one that won 13 games consecutively. Anyone who thought Mo Williams would be able to come back in and not be rusty isn't being realistic.
Then there's the case of Antawn Jamison. Mike Brown doesn't know how to use him yet. You'd suspect that eventually he's going to end up in the starting rotation, which would send J.J. Hickson to the bench. Friday night was in no way indicative of his ability on the court. Even he confessed to being a bit nervous.
The game will ultimately come down to two good defensive teams duking it out. The Cavs are ranked third defensively and the Magic fourth. But here's the dilemma, defense hasn't exactly been the Cavs' forte right now. They've looked godawful on that side of the court, giving up better than 50 percent shooting in the past five games. They cannot do that against the Magic or they will get burned.
Charlotte 110, Bobcats 93
In a nutshell:
Crappy defensive play. There's no other way to put it. The Bobcats shot a stratospheric 55 percent from the floor on their way to drubbing the Cavs. Stephen Jackson and his supporting cast were allowed to score at will with the Cavs not playing physically. Even Boris Diaw enjoy resurrection with 18 points on the night. That shows up in rebound numbers where Charlotte beat them by 10 overall.
Now it's quite possible that the Cavs are out of sync for a number of reasons, including a return from the All-Star break which they went into with a 13-game winning streak. Add to the mix Mo Williams just returning to the lineup and the addition of Antawn Jamison and there's no way that expected to play with the skill seen during that win streak.
But even with that being said, the defensive lapse in the past four of five games are alarming because teams have been shooting 50 percent or better. Now is not the best time to hit this skid. They land in Orlando tomorrow.
Game: Cavs vs. Charlotte Bobcats Broadcast: TV: FSOhio Radio: WAKR (1590 AM); WTAM (1100 AM), WHBC (1480 AM) Starters: Cavs: LeBron James (F); J.J. Hickson(F); Shaquille O'Neal (C); Anthony Parker (G); Mo Williams (G). Injured and inactive:
Cavs: Leon Powe (left knee surgery) - OUT
Bobcats: Alexis Anjica (torn ligament, right thumb); DeSsagan Diop (right MCL sprain) - OUT. Tyson Chandler (sore left foot) - GAME TIME DECISION. Nazr Mohammed (back spasms) - PROBABLE. Officials: Bill Kennedy, Marc Daniels and Kane Fitzgerald.
The Cavs have struggled against the Bobcats this year, owing two of their losses to Larry Brown's pesky Bobcats. They're at full strength in the starting lineup, the first time since the third week in January, so that should help.
What Cavs fans will want to pay attention to is how Antawn Jamison, the power forward acquired this week, plays. He will come off the bench tonight, but Mike Brown said that he has little idea what his next move will be regarding the player.
Jamison is a native of North Carolina and will have 40 family members and friends in attendance and he's playing for the best team in basketball. He should be up for this one.
The Bobcats will be without two of their big men - Tyson Chandler and DeSagana Diop tonight leaving Nazr Mohammed to tend to Shaquille O'Neal.
Theo Ratliff and Tyrus Thomas, trade acquisitions from the Chicago Bulls will play for the Bobcats.
This is from the Twitter page of Jimmy Traina of Sports Illustrated.
Nuggets 118, Cavs 116
In a nutshell:
If you're a fan watching this game proved a treat, simply to watch LeBron James and Carmelo Anthony go at one another. Defense? We don't need no steenkin' defense.
James had his 27th career triple-double on the season with 43 points, 13 rebounds and 15 assists. Anthony threw down 40 points, pulled down six rebounds and threw out seven assists.
But as much fun as it was to watch, this is a game that the Cavs should have won. No professional basketball team has any business shooting just 58 percent from the free throw line. There's no excuse for that.
The Cavs got the calls, James went to the line 17 times alone, but didn't hit the shots.
Tonight provided a look as to why the Cavs traded for Antawn Jamison. The Nuggets made no bones about harassing LeBron James or Shaquille O"Neal with double teams. That should infrequent when Jamison takes the court.
You chalk this one up to the Cavs being rusty after the All-Star break.
Each player dominated the fourth quarter for Game: Cavs (43-11) vs. Denver Nuggets (35-18)
Radio: WAKR (1590 AM); WTAM (1100 AM), WHBC (1480 AM)
Cavs: LeBron James (F); J.J. Hickson(F); Shaquille O'Neal (C); Anthony Parker (G); Daniel Gibson (G).
Nuggets: Carmelo Anthony (F) Kenyon Martin (F); Nene (C); Arron Afflalo (G); Chauncey Billups (G). Injured:
Cavs: Leon Powe (left knee surgery) - OUT. Danny Green (right foot blister) - PROBABLE. Officials: Monty McCutcheon, James Capers and Mark Linsay.
Yes, there is a basketball game tonight, despite all the trade hoopla. Will be interesting to see what the CDAvs do to spell relief for Shaquie O'Neal. There was little dowubt that he would see more playing time after the All-Star break, but without Z to back him up, that's a guarantee.
Carmelo Anthony didn't play in the first meeting between the two clubs, a Nuggets win. It was also a game that the Cavs should have won were it not for sloppy late play.
What will be more interesting to see is just how rusty they looking coming away from the All-Star break.
A day of good news keeps getting better for the Cleveland Cavaliers.
Guard Mo Williams will be in uniform tonight against the Denver Nuggets. He will come off the bench. Daniel Gibson will start.
Williams, who was placed on the inactive list Jan. 21 with a left shoulder sprain, has not played since a win over the Toronto Raptors on Jan. 19.
In 43 games this season he is averaging 16.9 points, 5.1 assists and 3.2 rebounds.
forward Leon Powe (left knee surgery) was not cleared by team doctors to play yet despite practicing Wednesday.
Neither forward Antawn Jamison, who was involved with the pre-game shoot around, nor guard Sebastian Telfair will dress this evening. Telfair is out with a groin injury.
At Antawn Jamison's age (33) he is getting a little nearsighted. He sees the end of his career and knows he doesn't have another "5-10 years left in this body."
He only has one goal.
Win a championship, no matter what it takes.
"I've never won a championship whether it was college, high school or so far in my career,'' Jamison said. "I've been to all star games. I've experienced a lot of things. There is only one thing left for me to achieve. There is only one thing that keeps me going. It is one thing that drives me night in and night out. I've said to myself its going to happen before I retire."
Perhaps more importantly, he talked about how the Cavaliers, as an organization, share the same beliefs he does.
"We are going to do everything possible,'' Jamison said. "The thing I like about this team is there are no egos. Nobody is trying to achieve individual numbers. It is all about winning. It's all about trying to capture something special that this city hasn't captured in a long time."
Well at least he did as a Washington Wizard. That's all changed now.
"As a player this was one of the arenas, cities, that I hated the most because they made it tough night in and night out,'' Antawn Jamison said in his introductory press conference Thursday at Quicken Loans Arena.
"(The fans) let you know who they were cheering for and what they thought of you. When you think of home court advantage this is truly a home court advantage."
"This was definitely one of the toughest places to play in. We hated it and dreaded coming here.''
It didn't help that Jamison played for heated-rival Washington, who had a knack for bringing out Cavs fans nasty side.
But the days of the Cavs-Wizards rivalry are in the past and there are no hard feelings going forward.
"You heard rumors possibly about a deal getting done,'' Jamison said. "I love DC and I loved the past six years, but once you hear a rumor like that, it is an opportunity of a lifetime to play along side LeBron James and Shaquille O'Neal."
Don't expect Antawn Jamison to step right into the Cavaliers starting lineup.
Cavaliers coach Mike Brown isn't even sure yet.
The Cavs are currently 40-8 since current starter JJ Hickson stepped into the starting lineup. Hickson, a second-year player, has shown some growth since taking over.
He is averaging 7.4 points and 4.4 rebounds and has worn teams out who decide to double team center Shaquille O'Neal.
Yet Hickson has still struggled to develop a perimeter game, which is where Jamison excels.
"a stretch 4,'' Brown said of Jamison. "A guy who can shoot the 3-point shot very well, a guy who has to be guarded; create off the dribble and get to the free throw line, he has mastered the medium game, he doesn't have to get to the rim. (He can) finish from 10-12 feet instead of getting to the rim. the way he rebounds is exciting."
So who does Brown choose?
Jamison, who is averaging 20.5 points and 8.8 rebounds this season and is a two-time all-star? or the up-and-coming Hickson?
"I don't know yet,'' Brown said. "A lot of times you kind of just go off gut feel. For a little bit I was like, 'Let's start (Jamison).' After about five hours of feeling that way, I don't know if I'm going to. Then I thought about it again."
The Cavaliers made a championship caliber move Wednesday night by acquiring Antawn Jamison.
But what happens if the trade backfires and the Cavs are unable to win the championship?
"It stunk three years ago, it stunk two years ago, it stunk last year and it will be awful this year,'' Cleveland Cavaliers General manager Danny Ferry said if his team does not win a title. "We want to be a team that's competing for it every year. We want to always be one of the best two, three, four teams in the league that has a chance."
"We've been able to do that the last few years. It's given us a realization, an appreciation of how hard it is and it's made us hungrier to do it. If we can't do it this year it will be awful."
But it won't be the end of it all. Ferry and the Cavaliers expect to be a championship caliber competitor for years to come.
It has been widely speculated that Zydrunas Ilgauskas will return to the Cleveland Cavaliers when and if his contract is bought out by the Washington Wizards.
Well, if he is still a Wizard. Trade deadline rumblings have Z's name being tossed around with a few trade options again (as of 3:15 nothing had happened).
Anyways, a decision to return has little to do with the Cavaliers. It is now out of their hands.
First, the Wizards have to buyout his $11.5 million contract, which would make him available. Because of a kicker in his contract Ilgauskas earned a rumored $600,000 extra for being traded.
Once he is available, he would be free to sign with any team in the league with the exception of the Cavaliers, who must wait 30 days before they can attempt to resign him.
A buyout must take place before march 1 in order for him to be eligible for the playoffs.
It is hard to imagine Z in any uniform other than the Cavaliers. Its all he knows, but it is up for debate on how he is feeling following the trade.
Does he feel used?
Does he feel like he could have a better opportunity to win a title elsewhere?
Can another team offer more money?
``He's moving ahead,'' Ilgauskas' agent Herb Rudoy said in a phone interview Wednesday. ``He's disappointed, but he knows it's a business... He's heard from several very good NBA teams who want to sign him (should he become available).''
It looks like everyone will have to wait and see.
"The Cavs took a risk by trading him and hoping he comes back because they have to get through the Lakers to win a championship," Ilgauskas' agent Herb Rudoy said.
Michael Wilbon, Washington Post: When Antawn Jamison drove away from Verizon Center in his Bentley he was leaving basketball purgatory in his rearview mirror. The Wizards, for the foreseeable future, are the minor leagues of pro basketball, right there with the Nets, Clippers, Warriors and Timberwolves
Terry Pluto, Plain Dealer: This is a great trade. How many different ways can I say that, after the Cavs deal for Washington's Antawn Jamison?
John Bena, Fear the Sword: Antawn Jamison has been a target of Danny Ferry for a long time. He provides the Cavaliers that 'stretch-4' that most experts think they need to win a NBA Championship.
Matt Moore, Fanhouse: After four seasons of toying with package deals of mediocre support, the Cavs pulled the trigger on acquiring a legitimate top-flight player to pair with the King.
Brendan Bowers, Stepien Rules:Danny Ferry's a crook, and if I'm ever in the same room as him I'm leaving my wallet in the car.
Lake Erie Soldiers: My question is now to Mike Brown: How are you going to give all these guys their minutes and keep them all happy and productive?
WaitingForNextYear: Jamison trade FAQs
Video of Jamison leaving Washington:
Finally, a portion of "The Giving Z" from John Krolik of Cavs: The Blog:
Once there was a Z….
And he was drafted by a crappy team.
And every day the team would come
and he would score them baskets in the post
and find his teammates with sharp passes
and they would run the offense through him
and ask him to win games
and even after his feet were hurt
he came back
and he made the All-Star game.
And the team loved the Z
very much.
To read more or comment...
Huge game. Huge win. The regular season still has a long way to go, but the game sent a message to the Magic, especially after Orlando released a three-point barrage on two separate occasions that the Cavs survived.
Cavs 115, Magic 106
In a nutshell:
Mike Brown praised an offensive effort when there wasn't a lot of defense. That's special in itself, but the Cavs won this by getting stops when needed because not a lot of them were forthcoming prior to the fourth quarter.
Shaquille O'Neal was huge in that endeavor shutting Dwight Howard down for more than half of the fourth.
But that wasn't the best part about this game, the best came afterward as Shaq laid into Dwight Howard and not with much subtlety:
To read more or comment...
Prior to this commercial I could think of two instances in any form of media that captured the atmosphere in African American barber shops: Eddie Murphy's Coming to America and the movie Barber Shop (sorry, Barber Shop 2 doesn't count). I would love to post a video from Coming to America, but the funniest one has a few F-Bombs and Big Brother might come down on me.
The creators of this commercial do it in 32 seconds. And for anyone who has gotten their head cut in the hood, you should love Z's reference to buying DVDs as he walks on the shop.
USA Basketball released its list of members of the men's basketball team today and to no one's surprise, LeBron James and eight other gold medalists were among those on the list.
But that list shouldn't be etched in stone, primarily because of business reasons. Chris Bosh, Dwyane Wade and, of course, James can all be free agents this summer and they have priorities.
"Special recognition and acknowledgement needs to go to the nine players returning from our 2008 Olympic Team. They have demonstrated that they are the heart and soul of our program and their commitment to continue to represent their country should not be overlooked,'' team director Jerry Colangelo said.
Ahhh yes, but there is that reality thing that USA Basketball must face. What NBA player is going to go into those games playing for his country and risk injury without a contract? No sane one. Business before pleasure.
"Just as was the case in 2006-08, the composition of the USA National Team will be fluid and by that I mean there could be additions to this group. We've learned to expect that you may have injuries; there may be special circumstances where players can't perform, so you need flexibility with regards to the addition and deletion of players in the program."
James alluded to the fact that he doesn't expect his free agency period to last very long so he can play for Team USA. We'll see what happens.
The entire team:
Returning to the USA National Team for 2010-12 are 2008 Olympic gold medalists Carmelo Anthony (Denver Nuggets); Carlos Boozer (Utah Jazz); Chris Bosh (Toronto Raptors); Kobe Bryant (Los Angeles Lakers); Dwight Howard (Orlando Magic); LeBron James (Cleveland Cavaliers); Chris Paul (New Orleans Hornets); Dwyane Wade (Miami Heat); and Deron Williams (Utah Jazz). Rounding out the list of Olympians on the national squad roster are 2004 Olympic bronze medalists Lamar Odom (Los Angeles Lakers) and Amar'e Stoudemire (Phoenix Suns). Completing the list of National Team players are LaMarcus Aldridge (Portland Trail Blazers); Chauncey Billups (Denver Nuggets); Kevin Durant (Oklahoma City Thunder); Rudy Gay (Memphis Grizzlies); Eric Gordon (Los Angeles Clippers); Danny Granger (Indiana Pacers); Andre Iguodala (Philadelphia 76ers); Al Jefferson (Minnesota Timberwolves); David Lee (New York Knicks); Brook Lopez (New Jersey Nets); Kevin Love (Minnesota Timberwolves); O.J. Mayo (Memphis Grizzlies); Kendrick Perkins (Boston Celtics); Derrick Rose (Chicago Bulls); Gerald Wallace (Charlotte Bobcats) and Russell Westbrook (Oklahoma City Thunder).
Marc Stein must be tired of writing that the Cavaliers are No. 1, which they have been for the past seventh week. He's actually paying compliments to coach Mike Brown's offense:
When a national writer can't knock Brown's offense, something's amiss.To read more or comment...
In a nutshell:
The Cavs played languidly in this game. The usual spark wasn't there, especially on the defensive end of the court.
Being honest, you have to credit the New Jersey Nets with playing them consistently close in their three meetings this year.
However, they didn't have the defensive intensity that normally comes from them. It's the second time that the team has given up better than 50 percent shooting in two games.
Simply put: has to improve for game against Orlando Thursday.
Game: Cavs (42-11) vs. New Jersey Nets (4-47)
TV: FSOhio WAKR (1590 AM); WTAM (1100 AM), WHBC (1480 AM).
Cavs: LeBron James (F); J.J. Hickson(F); Shaquille O'Neal (C); Anthony Parker (G); Daniel Gibson (G).
New Jersey: Javis Hayes (F); Yi Jianlian (F); Brook Lopez (C); Courtney Lee (G); Kenyon Dooling (G).
Cavs: Delonte West (left ring finger) - QUESTIONABLE. Leon Powe (left knee surgery); Mo Williams (left shoulder sprain) - OUT.
Nets: Devin Harris (mild left shoulder strain); Yi Jianlian (sore right shoulder) - QUESTIONABLE. Javis Hayes (bruised left shin) - PROBABLE.
Officials: Tony Brothers, David Guthrie and Haywoode Workman.
Forget the Nets record. This year they've played the Cavaliers tough in two games that the Cavs eventually pulled out. What could possibly make this a rout? The fact that Devin Harris and Yi Jianlian could miss the game
Conversely what could make this close or turn into a Cavs loss? If they for some reason look past the Nets, which is a real possibility. Don't shake your head; don't laugh. They almost blew a 23-point lead against the Knicks the other night in echos of the earlier part of the season.
The New York Daily News' Mike Lupica couldn't do it in a Christmas Day column, but a colleague, Frank Isola, the New York Knicks beat writer for the same paper, wrote about what most New Yorkers are afraid to admit: their chances of getting LeBron James in free agency may not be that great.To read more or comment...
Don't expect LeBron James to drag out his free agent experience come the summertime. He sounds as if he plans to make that decision soon after the July 1 opening so that he can concentrate on the FIBA World Championship in Turkey this summer. USA Basketball chairman Jerry Colangelo told AOL Fanhouse that he was confident that James would return to Team USA.
When asked if he was closer to making a decision about his participation James said: ''I've got a really busy schedule and you guys already know my schedule what's got to happen this summer,'' he said. ''Once I take care of business I'll be able to give a better commitment to the team.''
He has a narrow window to take care of that business. Although Colangelo said that James, Chris Bosh and Dwyane Wade, should he participate, wouldn't have to participate in the Las Vegas minicamp July 22-25, they would most certainly need to be in for the team's training camp beginning Aug. 10.
''I'm looking forward to getting back to that team and being with those guys,'' James said. '' It's a really strong team that we have at USA Basketball.''
The World Championships begin Aug. 28 in Turkey.
Post-mortem: Cavs 113, Knicks 106
In a nutshell: Coach Mike Brown didn't like the way Saturday's game played out - even with a win. The Cavs didn't play Cleveland basketball. They outshot the Knicks instead.
They allowed New York to shoot 53 percent from the floor and that lack of defense cost them a 22-point lead, making the game too close for comfort.
''I didn't know if we would make shots or miss shots, but nobody was stopping anybody in the first half. We didn't get the lead because we were making stops. We got the lead because 'Bron had a great first quarter and we made shots. We shot 66 percent from the field and scored 74 points.' Brown said.
James' efforts entertained, but Brown said he had a sneaking suspicion that something could go wrong.
''No, it wasn't my type of half,'' he said of the first half. '' It was fun to watch because LeBron went crazy knocking shots down. It's always good to see from a fan's standpoint or the media standpoint....But, no that's not my kind of half. Neither half was. But sometimes you live with it.''
That about sums it up. Fun to watch, but don't let it happen too often, Brown seee saying.
Game: Cavs (40-11) vs. New York Knicks (19-30) Broadcast:
TV: FSOhio Radio: WAKR (1590 AM); WTAM (1100 AM), WHBC (1480 AM)
Cavs: LeBron James (F); J.J. Hickson(F); Shaquille O'Neal (C); Anthony Parker (G); Daniel Gibson (G).
Knicks: Danilo Gallinari (F); Jared Jeffries (F); David Lee (C); Wilson Chandler (G); Nate Robinson (G).
Cavs: Leon Powe (left knee surgery), Delonte West (left ring finger); Mo Williams (left shoulder sprain) - OUT.
Knicks: Eddie Curry (left knee surgery) - OUT.
Officials: Bennett Salvatore, Bennie Adams, Phil Robinson.
Knicks are 1-4 in their last five games including a loss to the Milwaukee Bucks Friday night.
Shaquille O'Neal will face a stiff challenge against David Lee, who is averaging 19.9 points and 11.5 rebounds per game. Cavs are on a defensive tear of late holding opponents to under 90 points in the past four games. The Knicks average 101 per game.
It's no secret that Mike D'Antoni likes running the floor, and the Cavs have the horses to keep up. In the only meeting between these two teams this year, the Cavs beat the Knicks 100-91. It wasn't that close.
From last night's game:
One more after the jump.
Cavs 102, Heat 86.
In a nutshell:
Here's where everyone should ask themselves "Is there nothing LeBron James can't do on the basketball court?"
Apparently the answer is no. The Cavs were without all three of their point guards as Daniel Gibson missed the first half to be with his fiancee who had been admitted to the hospital. Gibson is engaged to R&B singer Keyshia Cole and they are expecting a child.
James played the first half point and ran the team magnificently, scoring 19 points in the process and getting his teammates involved. By the end of the first half, eight Cavs had scored in the game.
But playing the point also allowed him to drive the ball more and it showed in the stat line he went to the foul line a total of 21 times. He sank 17 of those free throw shots.
Once Gibson entered the game in second half, James was free to play more like observers are used to seeing.
Gibson ran his streak of scoring into double figures to seven and Shaquille O'Neal continued to play aggressively around the basket.
Game: Cavs (40-11) vs. Miami Heat (24-26)
TV: TNT Radio: WAKR (1590 AM); WTAM (1100 AM), WHBC (1480 AM)
Cavs: LeBron James (F); J.J. Hickson(F); Shaquille O'Neal (C); Anthony Parker (G); Daniel Gibson (G).
Heat: Quentin Richardson (F); Michael Beasley (F); Jermaine O'Neal (C); Dwyane Wade (G); Rafer Alston (G).
Cavs: Leon Powe (left knee surgery), Delonte West (left ring finger), Mo Williams (sprained left shoulder) - OUT.
Heat: Mario Chalmers (sprained left thumb).
Officials: Bob Delaney, Brian Forte, Ed Malloy.
The last game was a squeaker with the Cavs pulling the game out courtesy of a steal by LeBron James. The Cavs looked and played a bit sluggishly from the outset, trailing for most of the game. Daniel Gibson, Anderson Varejao and Shaquille O'Neal played well, but the rest of the team struggled.
The highlight of course, was the duel on both sides of the court between Dwyane Wade and LeBron James. In each of the two meetings between the teams, both players have scored in the 30s. If James has any rivalry - friendly or otherwise - with anyone in the NBA, it's with Wade. Given those past two games, there's little reason to expect otherwise tonight.
Once again, Gibson's and O'Neal's play will be integral to a Cavs win as they go for their 10th win in a row - their first double-digit win streak of the year.
Just when the New York Knicks thought they were done with Isiah Thomas - the former NBA great has been living in college basketball purgatory coaching Florida International - the former New York Knicks guru had to voice his opinion on LeBron James' potential free agency.
For the record, Zeke, as he was known during his plaing days, is all for James migrating to the Big Apple once he can become a free agent. Then perhaps James can turn the Knicks around and make the starving fans of New York forget how Thomas single handedly turned it into the Washington Generals of the NBA.
Thankfully, several New York writers understand the importance of his endorsement.
From Josh Alper of NBC New York:
LeBron James is three-for-three in the NBA season.
He's won the January Eastern Conference Player of the Month for the third consecutive time this season and fifth consecutive time dating back to last season.
James' production in the month of January with Mo Williams and Delonte West injured made it difficult to not choose him.
He led the Cavs to a league best 12-3 record for the month averaging 30.7 points (first for the month) on 50 percent shooting, 7.3 rebounds and 8.5 (second) assists per game. He scored 20 or more points in 14-of-15 games this season. James also recorded 1.6 steals per game, the fifth best in the league for January.
Some James highlights:
More Than a Game, the documentary about LeBron James and the Akron St. Vincent-St. Mary boys basketball team and their two years in the spotlight, hit video store shelves this week and Time Warner Cable will air a special on cable channel 23, the NEON Network, every Tuesday and Thursday in February at 7:30 p.m. featuring Cleveland Plain Dealer Cavs beat writer Brian Windhorst, St. Vincent-St. Mary coach Dru Joyce II and writer-director Kristopher Belman. The show, which is hosted by Les Levine, will also be available on Local on Demand channel 501 under the ''sports' tab.To read more or comment...
Cavs 105, Grizzlies 89
In a nutshell:
Coach Mike Brown said his team came in keenly aware of what the Grizzlies inflicted upon them in their loss t them earlier in the season.
That was 50 points on the interior. That didn't come close to happening tonight as the Cavs beat the Grizzlies in the paint 64-34 in a game they dominated from start to finish. After going ahead 28-16 in the first quarter they didn't have to look back and they never trailed in the game.
The Cavs featured balanced offense, another sparkling performance by Shaquille O'Neal (13 points, 13 rebounds) and another double-digit effort from Daniel Gibson with 16 points.
But where a heaping portion of credit belongs is with Anderson Varejao and, to a lesser degree, J.J. Hickson who handcuffed All-Star Zach Randolph, holding him to just eight points and four rebounds.
Game: Cavs (39-11) vs. Memphis Grizzlies (26-22) Broadcast: TV: FSOhio WAKR (1590 AM); WTAM (1100 AM), WHBC (1480 AM) Starters:
Cavs: LeBron James (F); J.J. Hickson (F); Zydrunas Ilgauskas (C); Anthony Parker (G); Daniel Gibson(G).
Grizzlies: Rudy Gay (F), Zach Randolph (F); Marc Gasol (C); O.J. Mayo (G); Mike Conley (G)
Cavs: Danny Green (soreness) - GAME TIME DECISION; Mo Williams (left shoulder sprain), Leon Powe (left knee surgery) and Delonte West (fractured finger) - OUT.
Grizzlies: Sam Young, Darrell Arthur.
Doormats no longer, the Grizzlies are coming off a victory over the Lakers last night. They also beat the Cavs on a buzzer beater when Mike Conley beat Shaquille O'Neal on a pick-and-roll, a play that coach Mike Brown said that he would defend the same way if given the opportunity. We'll see if it happens that way tonight.
Much of the Grizzlies' strength lies in the frontcourt with Zach Randolph and Rudy Gay who together average more than 40 points per game and close to 18 rebounds. Memphis is the only team with two players averaging 20 points per game. As a team, they average 52 points in the paint per game, having scored more than 50 points on the interior more than 30 times this season. That will test the Cavs' interior defense which averages a league-low 34.6 po0ints in the paint. In short: something has to give.
The Pacers have work to do if they expect to be able to trade forward Troy Murphy before the Feb. 18 deadline.
Apparently they wanted everything including the kitchen sink.
The Cavaliers are on an eight-game win streak, had a 12-3 January and a lot of it came without their top two guards - Mo Williams and Delonte West.
A round up of NBA power rankings reflect that.
First from ESPN's Marc Stein, who has the Cavs at his top spot for a sixth consecutive week:


text: OverviewBack to top Atkins Nutritionals Inc. - Day Break Baked Square Blueberry Almond - 5 Bars Item# :107509UPC# :637480055710 Brand:Atkins Nutritionals Inc. Size/Form:5 Bars Ship Weight:0.60 Servings:5 Dosage:1 Bar(s) Flavor:Blueberry Almond Atkins Nutritionals Inc. - Day Break Baked Square Blueberry Almond - 5 x 1.4 oz. (40 g) Bars Atkins Day Break Blueberry Almond Baked Squares combines two breakfast favorites - ripe blueberries and almond chunks - baked into a soft, chewy square topped with vanilla drizzle. You just woke up on the right side of the bed with Atkins Day Break Blueberry Almond Baked Squares. Whether you're trying to lose weight or maintain your optimal weight, Atkins Day Break Blueberry Almond Baked Squares are a delicious and nutritious way to help you reach your goals. Atkins Day Break Blueberry Almond Baked Squares contain: 5 g Protein 2 g Sugar 10 g Fiber 130 Calories Only 6 g Net Carbs Make Every Morning Count Start your day off right with the delicious taste of Atkins Day Break bars. Made with an optimal blend of protein, fiber and calcium, they're perfect for breakfast or as a mid-morning snack. What a great way to say "Good morning." Choosing foods wisely is essential to a healthy, active lifestyle. Atkins is all about proactive nutrition – providing you the information and inspiration you need to take charge of your health and enjoy your active life to the fullest. The Atkins Nutritional Approach is made up of seven nutrition principles that are designed to help you make the right food choices, so you can reach your goals. Protein - Protein provides a powerhouse of energy for the body, building and repairing your muscles and bones while boosting your metabolism. Add protein to your diet with delicious Atkins products. Try: Atkins Advantage Bars and Shakes Atkins Day Break Bars Fiber - Fiber offers huge benefits to your health, from controlling your appetite and regulating your blood sugar to helping your digestion. Add fiber to your diet with delicious Atkins products. Try: Atkins Advantage Bars and Shakes Atkins Day Break Bars Low Sugar - Eating foods low in sugar will provide a steady energy level throughout the day and will help you avoid extreme swings in blood-sugar and insulin levels. In addition, high blood sugar/insulin levels are linked to obesity, hypertension, undesirable cholesterol and triglyceride levels and other risk factors for heart disease. Vitamins & Minerals - Vitamins and minerals help your body run like a well-oiled machine, providing energy and protecting your body from free radicals. Atkins Bars and shakes have an optimal mix of vitamins and minerals. Try: Atkins Advantage Bars and Shakes Atkins Day Break Bars Atkins Endulge Bars Good Carbs - Good carbohydrates provide the body with valuable components such as, fiber, vitamins minerals and antioxidants while not leading to a spike in blood sugar and insulin levels. Atkins Nutritional Approach recommends eating a diet filled with a variety of good carbs -- nutrient-dense foods with few Net Carbs. Foods like fibrous vegetables and whole grains. Good carbs support weight loss, weight management and optimal health. Good Fats - Good fats are essential for human health. They keep us full, cushion and protect our organs, and serve as a boundless source of energy for the human body. Activity - Being active has numerous benefits from improving mood and mental focus to managing weight and preventing chronic health conditions. What Is The Atkins Diet? Atkins is the original leading low-carb weight loss plan that provides quick, effective, satisfying and balanced weight loss based on an extensive body of scientific research. The Atkins Diet is designed to "flip the body's metabolic switch" from burning carbs to burning fat. Graduated carb introduction limits blood sugar and insulin spikes, which cause hunger and cravings, and result in overeating and weight gain. Atkins has the additional application of being the weight loss plan of choice for the millions of people who have a reduced ability to process carbohydrates – those who have varying levels of "carbohydrate intolerance." The Atkins plan consists of four phases, with gradual increased carb intake for each phase. The plan allows an individual to find his or her perfect carbohydrate balance that is ideal for their personal weight loss or maintenance. Atkins dieters are motivated to change and maintain their eating patterns with delicious and healthy food options. How can individuals following Atkins ensure they are getting a fully balanced, nutritional diet? The Atkins Diet encourages the consumption of a healthy balance of nutrient dense food, adequate protein, a full array of high-fiber vegetables, low glycemic fruits and good fats, like avocado and olive oil. It teaches every individual to discover their own perfect carbohydrate balance. The Atkins Diet includes a wide variety of foods throughout the entire plan. Even during the Induction phase the concentration is on adequate intake of protein and fat, and a wide variety of vegetables to supercharge the body's fat burning power and jumpstart weight loss. During the first two weeks, dieters can eat more vegetables on a daily basis than is recommended by the USDA. Progressing through the diet, seeds, nuts, low glycemic fruits and eventually whole grains are added in, with the amount dependent on each individual's personal carbohydrate tolerance. In addition to weight loss, what are some of the health benefits associated with Atkins? Independent third-party clinical research has found that Atkins reduces risk factors for heart-disease, insulin resistance and diabetes. Additionally, the average American consumes 156 pounds of added sugar each year, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). Imagine it: 31 five-pound bags per person per year. By eating carbohydrates in moderation, the Atkins Diet helps individuals (even those without diabetes) maintain stable blood sugar levels, leading to fewer carb cravings and more energy, among other health benefits. Scientific research has consistently found that subjects at a high risk for Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) that were following the low-carb approach had improvements in their cholesterol profiles, decreasing their risk of developing CAD. There are also many digestive benefits that come with following Atkins. Fiber requirements can be easily met because the Atkins Diet replaces highly refined, low-fiber carbohydrates with salad greens, fresh vegetables, low sugar fruit, nuts, seeds and whole grains. The diet includes lots of vegetables to replace processed foods, which increases fiber intake. A high-fiber diet is the best way to lower risk factors associated with the colon. Additionally, numerous scientific studies have confirmed that those eating a high-fiber diet have lower cholesterol levels and fewer incidences of heart disease than those on a low-fiber diet. Can vegetarians follow the Atkins Diet? Vegans? The Atkins Diet allows individuals to consume a wide variety of foods, all framed within a context of eating fewer carbohydrates and sugars. The diet can be followed as a vegetarian or vegan. Vegetarians can start in Ongoing Weight Loss at 30 grams of Net Carbs and introduce seeds and nuts before berries. Vegetarians will can get their protein from eggs, cheese and soy products. Vegans can get sufficient protein from seeds, nuts, soy products, soy and rice cheeses, seitan, legumes and high protein grains like quinoa. Vegans can start in Ongoing Weight Loss at 50 grams of Net Carbs so they can have nuts, seeds and legumes from the start. It is common knowledge that Atkins limits carb intake, but does the diet allow for individuals to eat any carbs? The Atkins Diet is a low-carb, not a no carb plan. People frequently mistake the first phase, Induction, for the entire Atkins plan. During Induction, the plan allows dieters to eat 20 grams of net carbohydrates (total grams of carbs minus fiber and the only carbohydrates that impact one's blood sugar level) daily, with 12 – 15g net carbohydrates coming from a full array of colorful, nutrient-dense vegetables. After the Induction phase is complete, the carbohydrate count is gradually increased until each individual reaches his or her perfect carb balance and goal weight. Additionally, dieters can start during any phase of the Atkins plan depending on their individual weight loss goals. Atkins dieters can even enjoy whole grains and pasta in later phases. Isn't Atkins criticized for having too much fat? Atkins does focus on fat, but a balance of fats that are commonly agreed to be healthy, such as monounsaturated fats like olive oil and avocado. If they wish, individuals can easily avoid almost all saturated fats while on Atkins by following the plan as a vegetarian. Research from more than 80 peer-reviewed independent studies has consistently demonstrated the diet's safety and efficacy. Thoughtful Approach. Powerful Science Science has been at the core of every decision Atkins has ever made. It all started in 1963, when Dr. Robert C. Atkins began to formalize the controlled carbohydrate approach after studying a series of articles published in the Journal of the American Medical Association that supported this theory. Troubled by the increasing obesity problem among his patients and among the U.S. population, Dr. Atkins found how eating the right foods while limiting refined carbohydrates in one's diet changed a person's body from a carb-burning to a fat-burning machine. This, in turn, led to successful weight loss and improvements in many weight-related health issues. It was from this revolutionary thinking that the Atkins Nutritional Approach was born. At Atkins, they continue to educate consumers about the growing body of research on weight loss and weight management. In fact, today, there are over 50 studies that highlight the positive weight loss results and other health benefits associated with following the Atkins Diet. These benefits include weight loss, improvement in risk factors for heart disease, hypertension and diabetes, inflammation, benefits in treating epilepsy and decreasing obesity in children and adolescents. Another way Atkins has carried on in the tradition of education is through the creation of their Science Advisory Board - a multi-disciplinary collection of nationally known experts in the fields of nutrition, metabolism, physiology and food science from leading universities and institutions in the United States. These men and women are responsible for the oversight of their program as well as the development and formulation of all their products. Atkins' members also conduct and publish additional research on the diet and its principals. Atkins Science Advisory Board Atkins Nutritionals has always said it – science is the basis for their nutritional approach and in order to continue to educate people about the growing body of emerging research highlighting the health benefits associated with the principles of the Atkins Nutritional Approach as well as the development of new products, Atkins created a multi-disciplinary Science Advisory Board that includes nationally known experts in the fields of nutrition, metabolism, physiology and food science. The group advises Atkins on the latest scientific findings and medical studies that investigate the safety, efficacy and nutritional value of the Atkins Nutritional Approach and its products. Each member of the board provides ongoing expert counsel to Atkins as they continue to help people achieve their weight loss and weight management goals. As part of their work, the board will monitor the growing body of research, now totaling more than 50 studies that highlight the positive weight loss results and other health benefits associated with following the Atkins Diet. These benefits include weight loss, improvement in risk factors for heart disease, hypertension and diabetes, inflammation, benefits in treating epilepsy and decreasing obesity in children and adolescents. And of course, science extends to their products, whose great taste and nutrition are the result of thorough scientific formulation using the some of the best ingredients on Earth. About Atkins Nutritionals Atkins Nutritionals Inc. is a leading player in the $2.4 billion weight control nutrition category and offers a powerful lifetime approach to weight loss and weight management. The Atkins Nutritional Approach focuses on a healthy diet with reduced levels of refined carbohydrates and refined sugars and encourages the consumption of lean protein, fiber, fruits, vegetables and good fats. Backed by research and consumer success stories, this approach allows the body to burn more fat and work more efficiently while helping people feel less hungry, more satisfied and more energetic. Atkins manufactures and sells a variety of nutrition bars and shakes designed around the nutrition principles of the Atkins Diet. The Atkins line of products appeals to a broad audience of men and women who want to achieve their weight management goals and enjoy a healthier lifestyle. Their products are available in more than 30,000 locations throughout the U.S. and internationally.


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PHOTO: Khloe Kardashian posts selfie of tiny waist
Khloe Kardashian is "obsessed" these days with getting in shape.
Over the weekend, the reality star posted a photo to Instagram of her amazingly slimmed down waist.
Kardashian captioned the pic, "I love my waist trainer from @premadonna87!!!! Miss @blacchyna has me obsessed!!! Who doesn't love to feel tight and right?!? #whatsawaist #waistgang #Fitness #GetItRight."
Check out the photo below!


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Platinum Heavy Duty Range, Gas, 24", (4) 33,000 BTU Step-Up Open Burners, manual controls, standard depth, 1-1/4" front manifold, cabinet base, s/s front and sides, 6" adjustable legs, 132,000 BTU
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WATCH: The best of the AMAs
When it comes to the American Music Awards, let's face it: It's all about the performances. And this year's AMAs were no exception. But will anyone be talking about the 15 performances at this Sunday's AMAs that weren't Miley Cyrus dueting with a crying, creepy robot-cat? Let's rank all of the performances and find out...
1. Miley Cyrus
The only duet that received more attention at this year's American Music Awards than Lady Gaga and R. Kelly's (more about them in a bit) was Miley, in a kitty-printed bikini, singing "Wrecking Ball"…with a lip-synching, weeping, animatronic space-cat. If there's anything bigger on the Internets than Miley Cyrus, it's cats — so, basically, the Web exploded during this performance. The tweets, memes, and GIFs came fast, furious, and furry. And that extremely GIFable cat literally got Miley's tongue at the very end of the song. Meow!
2. Lady Gaga & R. Kelly
If there were ever a strong case to be made for R. Kelly shooting about 50 more chapters of "Trapped in the Closet" starring Gaga, it would be their wonderfully wackadoodle performance at the 2013 AMAs. Their recent "SNL" performance of ARTPOP's best track, "Do What U Want," was just a basic disco twerkout, but their AMAs duet had a whole (seemingly JFK/Marilyn, Clinton/Lewinsky-inspired) plot about President Kelly and his torrid affair with a leotarded secretary. It was all very awesome, further proof that Gaga can do whatever she wants.
3. Ariana Grande
How refreshing! This mega-talented Favorite New Artist-winner simply sang — and kept it classy — and she managed to upstage most of the night's performers in the process.
4. Justin Timberlake
Yep, this is what true talent looks like, people. Those impressionable One Direction boys should check out this tour de force by the ex-boy band heartthrob with "The Tennessee Kids," and dream that they can have a career like JT's in 10 years.
5. Macklemore & Ryan Lewis
The energy in the room elevated so high the ceiling couldn't hold it, when these AMAs favorites hit the stage for "Can't Hold Us." Macklemore can always be counted on for a rousing performance, and he definitely didn't disappoint Sunday.
6. A Great Big World & Christina Aguilera
How interesting (and awesome) that many of the standout performances of the night just came down to great singing and songwriting. Less proved to be more when Lady Xtina joined buzz band A Great Big World for a tasteful piano duet.
7. Jennifer Lopez
Performing a special tribute to late salsa star Celia Cruz, J.Lo wasn't quite at Celia's level, but she did sing live and dance up a storm, and her performance was one of the most colorful and exciting of the night. And that metallic bodysuit? ¡Muy caliente!
8. One Direction
Wow, was this a surprise unbilled performance by Mumford & Sons? Nope. It was the all-grown-up, cleaned-up-nice, One Direction, warbling their mature, very mom-friendly new single, "Story Of My Life." Looks like this boy band is well on its way to becoming man band.
9. Imagine Dragons
Imagine Dragons had held it down for the entire rock genre at this year's AMAs. With copious clouds of dry-ice fog, a roaringly radioactive lead vocal, and a Fleetwood Mac-does-Tusk-style drum solo, the Nevada band definitely rocked it.
10. Katy Perry
Katy channeled a little bit of Madonna's "Nothing Really Matters" video (and a lotta a bit of Culture Club's "Miss Me Blind" video) for her Japanese-themed opening performance. It was a lovely way to kick off the show.
11. Kendrick Lamar
Compton's finest gave a strong, if straightforward, performance of "Swimming Pools."
12. Luke Bryan
The king of "bro country" bro'd it out pretty entertainingly during this pleasant performance.
13. Florida Georgia Line & Nelly
14. Rihanna
RiRi won the Icon Award!
15. Pitbull & Ke$ha
When word broke out that TLC would be performing their signature song "Waterfalls" with special guest Lil Mama filling in for the late Left Eye, we were ready for a real red light special.
Photo Credit Getty Images


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Van Halen working on new album
Listen to Van Halen on iHeartRadio
Van Halen has a new album in the works.
An indirect update on the band's studio project comes from guitarist Mark Tremonti. In a new interview he says that his next album could be delayed because Wolfgang Van Halen -- who's the bassist in Mark's band -- is doing "a lot of work with Van Halen right now."
Mark adds that having an inside connection to Van Halen doesn't mean he has any special knowledge about the band's new music. He says Wolfgang never says anything specific about what he's doing with Van Halen, but just tells him it "sounds great."
Van Halen frontman David Lee Roth recently said in a radio interview that he and Eddie Van Halen started to "put music together" late last year. He added that it would likely take "about 18 months" for the band to finish the album.
Van Halen's last album, A Different Kind of Truth, arrived two years ago. It was the band's first full studio set with Roth since the 1984 album.
Photo Credit Getty Images


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Each month, Rated People connects over 50,000 homeowners with quality tradesmen - simply enter your job details in the form above to get started.
We'll match your job to the relevant tradesmen in your area - those interested will pay to see your contact details and call you to quote.
As each tradesman expresses interest in quoting on your job, we'll send you their profile and ratings to help you choose the right one for you.
After the work is complete, return to the site and rate your tradesman based on their quality of work, reliability and value for money.
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John boarded our loft for us. He was very good at advising us and managing our expectations while also taking on board where we wanted something a little different from the norm. He really cares about making sure his customers are happy and he has good attention to detail. As a result we have exactly what we wanted and couldn't be happier. We'll definitely be using John again for any woodwork we need doing.
Managing your job is easier with the Rated People Homes App, download it today.


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High school senior lands date with Texans cheerleader, thanks to Twitter
It's a tale as old as time. Boy sees photo of beautiful NFL cheerleader. Boy asks for date over Twitter. Tweet goes viral. Cheerleader says yes. The date is on.
Ramirez told ABC-13 that he came up with the idea while sitting in English class. He wrote Beth on Twitter asking if she'd go to the prom with him if his message was retweeted 10,000 times.
It was. And then some. Beth told ABC-13 that she was happy to say yes. "I thought it was the sweetest thing ever and I immediately said yes, and I confirmed with my coach and the Texans and it took off from there."
Ramirez said that initially his friends and teammates didn't give him much of a chance (haters gonna hate). And now they see that he has, some are trying to copy his idea, messaging other Texans cheerleaders for dates.
So far, none of the others has succeeded, ABC-13 reports. However, there is still time. The prom isn't until May.
This isn't the first time an average kid has successfully lobbied a celebrity for a date. Last year, high school student Jake Davidson asked Sports Illustrated bombshell Kate Upton to go the prom with him. She initially said yes, but then had to back out due to a schedule conflict. But don't cry for him. Nina Agdal, another SI swimsuit model, went in her place.
In 2011, Mila Kunis and Justin Timberlake each attended a Marine Corps Ball after being asked online.
Catch me on @nflnetwork tomorrow morning discussing @texanscheer taking on prom 😍 pic.twitter.com/1nwglscUag
— HTC_Caitlyn (@HTC_Caitlyn) March 5, 2014


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Zimmerman's new painting swings at prosecutor
(NEWSER) – The artist George Zimmerman has unveiled his latest painting: a fire engine-red portrait of the special prosecutor who brought second-degree murder charges against him in the Trayvon Martin case. The painting is a re-creation of the very moment Angela Corey made her April 2012 announcement of those charges, reports theNew York Daily News. But the artist took one tiny creative liberty: She's shown pinching her fingers together, and this text appears in the upper right: "I have this much respect for the American Judicial System."
Very proud to introduce @TherealGeorgeZ 's latest..."Angie". Sale info & details available tomorrow. #ronaldthompson pic.twitter.com/yDkIl4QH0R
— Robert Zimmerman JR (@rzimmermanjr) January 22, 2014


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Snowden Made 21 Asylum Requests, Drops Russia Bid
(NEWSER) – Can Edward Snowden afford to be choosy? Authorities in Russia say the NSA leaker has reportedly canceled a request for asylum after balking at the conditions imposed by Vladimir Putin, including no longer leaking information damaging to the US, the AP reports. Snowden has applied for asylum in no fewer than 21 countries, according to WikiLeaks, but the rejections are starting to pile up: Germany, Norway, Austria, Poland, Finland, and Switzerland all say he needs to be on their soil to request asylum. And India this morning "concluded that we see no reason to accede to that request."


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Our site has undergone a reorganization, and we're very sorry that the document you requested is no longer available.
← If you try one of the options in the menu on the left though, there should be some useful information.
For example, did you know that there's a registered dietitian on staff ... just for JMU students ... for free? Check it out


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This is the cordless, prelit indoor/outdoor garland with conveniently shaped tips that require no further manipulation, allowing use anywhere without the need for annual re-shaping. Its flexible weatherproof PVC-coated steel spine is decorated with woody pinecones, clusters of red berries, and lush green PVC and nylon branch tips that replicate the growth patterns of actual conifers. Soft white LEDs are strung through the boughs and needles to create a warm holiday glow. An automatic timer turns the LEDs on for six hours and off for 18 hours. Each requires D batteries (six for 12'; three each for 9' and 6').
Was $134.95 NOW $69.95
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Perfect for our plant shelves.
By Patt
from Florida
Best Uses
Timer is wonderful. Turn the timer on once and it is set for the holidays.
Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
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Good buy!
By Myrnz
from Trinidad & Tobago
The garland is already decorated, there are no cords running to electrical outlets to create a trip hazard,and has a timer setting so that I don't have to turn it on every evening. Convenient & easy to hang. If you're big on a lot of decorations you may need to add to this garland as it is minimally decorated. All in all great buy,I'll be getting an additional garland to complete my porch.
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Germany 2011-13 home shirt with an elegant white strip that features thin diagonal stripes in the color of Germany's flag. The white kit boasts a classic design that recalls the home kits worn by `Die Mannschaft` in years past .ClimaCool ,comfortable, subtle V-neck collar with the German team badge applied in rubber and embroidered adidas logo . "Deutscher Fussball Bund" is scripted below the back collar and a small stitched on German flag just underneath.100% polyester. Comes with official licensed player N&N of Gotze #19.
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Report: Patriots' Hernandez not ruled out as suspect in murder
(Boston, MA) -- Police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the death of a man who may be connected to New England Patriots tight end Aaron Hernandez. The "Boston Globe" reports authorities are trying to determine if the apparent murder is drug-related. The uncle of a Dorchester man tells the paper his nephew is "possibly" the person whose body was found in North Attleboro, less than a mile from Hernandez's home.
WBZ-TV has identified the victim as 27-year-old Odin Lloyd, a semi-pro football player with the Boston Bandits. According to that report, Lloyd was dating the sister of Hernandez's girlfriend.


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White Carhartt Pants
Why do people continue to count on Carhartt Pants to get them through their work day? Durability. Whether you choose relaxed or loose-original fit, Carhartt work pants are built to last. All feature quality fabrics that are designed for a comfortable fit and provide ample room for movement.


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'Transformer' Plane Splits Into 3 When Under Attack
(NEWSER) – If Tom Cruise made a movie that somehow merged his roles in Top Gun, Mission Impossible, and Minority Report, this would be the aircraft he'd be flying. Defense and aerospace company BAE Systems has posted a YouTube video of the "Transformer," a sophisticated concept plane that's actually made up of three separate smaller planes, designed to "split apart to quickly adapt to any scenario," reports Gizmodo. Those scenarios may include an offensive blitz by enemy units, surveillance missions, or a supply delivery to military on the ground. Until their planned breakup, the smaller "sub-aircraft" coast through the air together as one, which saves fuel by reducing drag, explains Mashable.
Read the full story on Newser.com


text: Buy from the blank media specialists! Your refined search is by surface, which distinguishes the different surface types for discs. You have selected White Thermal. Best sellers for blank DVD-R discs category include: JVC TY 16X Silver Thermal DVD-R 100 Pack, Ritek Ridata 16X White Inkjet Printable DVD-R 100 Pack, and JVC TY 8X Silver Thermal Lacquer DVD-R 100 Pack


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The Need for Speed
Can your agency move at start-up speed?
Constituents, partners, and customers have grown accustomed to instant gratification which is why today, agencies need to take a page from the private sector's software development processes to build and release applications more quickly and deploy them faster.
There is a new IBM solution that can help them get this done. Based on IBM's recent acquisition of UrbanCode, the solution expands IBM's already robust DevOps capabilities, simplifying software development and delivery processes across government organizations. The new UrbanCode technology helps government agencies reduce cycle time, shortening the time to get applications into market from months to minutes.
Join this webcast to learn more about IBM's UrbanCode offering, which can help your agency deliver software to production services faster, resulting in decreased time to market and accelerated pace of innovation though end-to-end software delivery. The approach is also designed to help reduce cost and risk, while addressing client needs by enabling agencies to rapidly incorporate feedback into and improve the overall quality of their applications and services.
In this webinar you will learn:
- How government organizations can establish repeatable, error-free, scalable application deployment processes
- How government organizations can establish repetition and traceable build processes in large development teams while maintaining quality
- Why agencies can reduce cost and risk while responding to changing needs and improving the quality of applications and services
- Why the power of continuous delivery helps agencies increase delivery speed, quality and stability through frequent, automated releases.


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Friday today so announcement day. Tomorrow will be a reveal on the site. Last weekend I had three reveals but I think this weekend will just be one. If you want to follow me on Twitter, I am @entylawyer or you can click on the birdie thing over ——-> I have had some blinds there that I don't on the site. I also gave a hint to a blind item from earlier in the week over there today.
A traditional Four For Friday today because I have a lot of quicker ones that I have been dying to share.
#1 – This former American Idol alum who actually is well known has other plans since her records have not been selling well. She is dying to be in Playboy and wants to make the transition from singer to host and thinks being naked in Playboy is the way to make that happen. Why is everyone's first thought to get naked? If you need a hint, she has fake breasts.
#2 – This top female tennis player is scrapping her marriage plans after she caught her celebrity boyfriend cheating.
#3 & #4 – What A list celebrity bff female couple reunited recently but won't be doing it again. It has been forever since they spoke or went out prior to this because one of the women got drunk and made out with the significant other of the other woman.


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Gun control Dems kicked out of office in Colorado
Colorado voters kicked Democratic state senators John Morse and Angela Giron out of office Tuesday, the first legislators in the state's 137-year history to be recalled by their constituents.
The Democrats were targeted for their support of strict new gun laws that have drawn both opposition and support since they were passed by a Democratic-controlled state legislature earlier this year, but the opponents had final say in the hard-fought races.
Morse, the now-former senate president, lost the recall by just 343 votes and conceded the election at around 10 p.m. local time. Republican Bernie Herpin will take his place in the Colorado state senate when the legislature convenes in January.
During his concession speech at a Colorado Springs hotel, Morse said he was honored to have served his district.
"We as the Democratic Party will continue to fight," he said.
His opponents called his defeat a game-changer in terms of American gun control policy.
"The people of Colorado have made history tonight sending a loud and clear message that will reverberate throughout the country and alter the terrain of the gun-control debate," said Kurt Bardella, a consultant for the campaigns seeking to recall Morse and fellow Democrat Sen. Angela Giron.