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Cops rescue family from irate 22-lb. cat
(NEWSER) – Portland police got a very strange call Sunday: A family was cowering in a bedroom after their 22-pound Himalayan cat went on the rampage, the Oregonianreports. "It has gone over the edge," Lee Palmer told dispatchers. "He's trying to attack us—he's very hostile. He's at our door; he's charging us." The 4-year-old male cat, named Lux, had first scratched owner Teresa Barker's 7-month-old son on the forehead after the baby pulled the animal's tail. Barker's boyfriend Palmer then kicked the cat away from the baby, setting the animal off, KATU reports.
Read the full story on Newser.com

subset: commoncrawl


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What Is Up With Miley's White Tongue?
(NEWSER) – You may have noticed that, of late, Miley Cyrus cannot seem to keep her tongue in her mouth. Well,Slate noticed something else, and it's even more disturbing: Her tongue often appears to be white. "Can we just confirm that Miley's not dying of rabies?" writes Katy Waldman. She consults first with the Mayo Clinic, which says white tongue can be caused by any number of things, from the dangerous (leukoplakia, which can be precancerous) to the bizarre-sounding (oral thrush) to the scandalous (syphilis) to the perhaps-most-likely ("excessive alcohol use").


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LISTEN: Pharrell Williams addresses album cover criticism
Listen to Pharrell on iHeartRadio
Pharrell Williams is speaking out against the backlash surrounding the supposed lack of African-American women on his G I R L album cover.
In an interview with New York's Power 105.1 radio, Pharrell says his critics have "jumped the gun" because the woman nearest to him on the cover is black. The Grammy-winning producer also says he's "disappointed" by the criticism on social media.
Furthermore, he points out that if any of those detractors listened to the album, they would know G I R L is "an ode to women, period." He also says he's trying to "kill" the idea that women have to be "white, waif and thin" to be beautiful.
Pharrell also revealed that his second single from G I R L will be a song called "Marilyn Monroe." He says the lyrics reflect his belief that all women deserve respect, no matter their skin color, appearance or sexual orientation.
Check out the full interview below:


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OPERATION TERRA - Closing Thoughts
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[quote:SheLoves:MV8xMjU4NDdfMTU0ODI0OV83OTE2N0NBMQ==] Stanislav, Hold the light! [/quote]
Original Message
July 9, 2005
As I write this, I am actively preparing to leave the planet and lead the way up onto the ships. If you are reading this page after August 1, 2005, then you may safely assume I have gone and that the others will follow. If I am still here on August 1, I will put up a different page and say so. No one will have to guess whether I have gone or not. I will not make excuses and I will not re-invent things to prolong them. That being said, here is the overview of what has happened and what remains to occur, according to my present understanding. Please note that the following description only refers to the timeline that leads to Terra. People who are on other timelines will not experience the Pole Shift that is referred to in Phase Three or what follows in Phases Four and Five. That implies that the timelines will have fully separated from each other by sometime in 2007.
PREPARATION PHASE: Operation Terra is part of a long-term plan for this Creation, begun 4.5 billion years ago in a pact between 144,000 archetypal energies that we refer to as the Elohim. These are not embodied beings, but vast fields of intelligent, self-aware energies, only slightly more finite than the Creator Itself. The Elohim precipitated this reality out of their beingness, just as they themselves had been created by the Creator as the product of the First Thought. We are now approaching the end of this creation and this creation-cycle. Operation Terra is the part of the Plan that will result in a new Earth, which we call Terra. There are other Earths that will also result, but they are not Terra.
In the seeding of THIS creation, it was always intended for it to lead to yet another creation, and so everything that has occurred in THIS creation was in one sense a preparation for the next one. From a strictly personal view, my preparation for my role as messenger for the Messages began long ago, but it really went into an active phase on March 9, 1981, when the being we refer to as the Christ appeared in my bedroom and called me to this path. From March 9, 1981 until late June, 1999, I was trained for my solitary role, and as far as I know, I am still the only person who carries the blueprint for this "op."
PHASE ONE began when I was asked to deliver a series of Messages from the Hosts of Heaven. The first Message came in on June 30, 1999 and the last one was delivered on May 6, 2005. Due to the "Change in Plans" reported in that last Message, Phase One is now complete. There will be no more Messages from the Hosts and Volume Three will remain as it is. It will not be published in book form.
PHASE TWO began on Christmas Eve, December 24, 2004. The tsunamis in Asia occurred two days later, and those of the first two waves of the "op" began to intensify their response to the call to align with the vision of Terra. The "Time of Ingathering" had indeed arrived. Phase Two includes the lifting of those who are part of the first two waves, and it will conclude at the end of December, 2005.
Current information indicates that I will go up at the end of this month (July 2005) and the last of the first wave will go up by October 22. The first wave numbers less than 100 people, but there are many more already on the ships with whom they will work and interact. There will be a period of overlap between the first and second waves, with the second wave beginning to go up in September and completing their lifting onto the ships by the end of December. Approximately 4,000 of them are on the ground, with the rest of them already on the ships. That will complete Phase Two.
PHASE THREE will begin with the transformation of the first two waves into their full-consciousness state and 4D bodies and conclude with the evacuation and the Pole Shift. There will be some adaptation required for those of us who are moving into 4D from 3D, and we will be assisted and cared for by those who are already on the ships in 4D. It is at this stage that the people of the first two waves will be reunited with their twins. Phase Three encompasses the preparations for the evacuation of the special forces (approximately 3,000 people) and the third wave (approximately 5-6 million people) during the time of the final cataclysms, which I am still expecting to occur during the three months of March-May, 2007. The Pole Shift refers to an actual shift of the Earth´s rotational axis, not a shift in the magnetic poles or the lines of magnetic flux ("ley lines" or "dragon lines"), which has already been occurring for many years (the magnetic north pole has already wandered off the North American continent and is currently located in international waters, according to reports from recent scientific studies). After the Pole Shift occurs, Earth will not contain any life above the mineral kingdom and will remain barren at the 3D level for a very long time.
Phase Three will conclude with our arrival on the large mothership, which I refer to as Midway Station. I expect this to occur somewhere around July 2007. Midway Station is around 80% the size of Earth and is spherical in shape. You can read more about the ships in the Message, "Across the Great Divide," in Volume Two of the Messages.
PHASE FOUR will encompass our time on Midway Station, where we will prepare to colonize Terra. During Phase Four, those who were lifted at the end of Phase Three will complete their transformation, with the assistance of everyone who was part of the earlier phases of the "op." Special measures will allow them to make the transition to 4D safely and gradually. During this time, everyone will be prepared for their part in the colonization of Terra. During Phase Four, Earth will be completing her own ascension and quantum leap into manifesting as Terra, which will appear as a blue-white star when viewed from 3D with 3D instruments. To those in 4D, she will appear as a beautiful planet, surrounded in blue-white light.
PHASE FIVE will encompass the actual colonization of Terra, and will conclude with the birth and maturation of the first generation of Terra-born children. When they are ready to take their places as full citizens of Terra and are able to self-govern, those of us who have acted as the pioneers will depart for other adventures. None of us who are the pioneers will remain on Terra for the normal lifespan of 350-500 years. We will only remain until Terra is fully established. When we leave, Phase Five and Operation Terra will end, but Terra will continue until the fulfillment of that particular expression of the Creator is complete.
On July 21, the Operation Terra site will be moved to a new server, where it will remain for two more years. I will no longer be available after that point in time, except for those individuals with whom I need to maintain contact until the time comes for me to actually go. After July 21, there will be no Operation Terra phone or fax numbers, no e-mail accounts, and no online store. The Celestial Way PO Box will be closed after that date and there will be no mail forwarding set up, so all mail arriving after that date will be returned. All inventory has been sold except for some of the new music CDs, which I am now closing out at below-cost prices. All mail and fax orders must be received by July 18. All online orders must be placed by midnight (Pacific time) on July 19. I am working on the Web pages for the Spanish translations, and will put them up as soon as they are complete. I will probably not have time to complete the pages for the other languages I have but will try to make them available as downloadable files or provide links to other sites where you might be able to view them.
Time is growing short. On July 7, in a private communication to me, the Hosts made it clear that THEIR only priority is the lifting of the first and second waves onto the ships by the end of December 2005. Everything else in the "op" hinges on that. Otherwise there will be no evacuation and no colonization of Terra by people from the present planet of Earth. The Hosts have told me to do what is reasonable in the time I have left and let the rest go, as the people who are destined for Terra are going to get there anyway, by decision of their Oversoul, and not because they have read or not read the Messages.
In closing, I can honestly say that I have served with the clear intention to deliver this information as purely as I could. As I have said before, no channel can be 100% accurate, but the Messages contain much more than mere words. Millions of people have been exposed to the information over the past 6+ years, and a significant holographic insertion into the consciousness matrix has been achieved. It will remain in the consciousness matrix, available to guide future generations when it is their time to make their way to Terra, launched from the platform of "future lives" that they have as yet to live.
The values and practices given in the Messages are of value to anyone who is pursuing a spiritual path, regardless of their destination and regardless of how things play out on the planetary surface. Many of those who came down from the higher planes to assist during these times will return to their home environments, rather than taking part in the actual colonization of Terra, but I already expect that some of them will be visiting those of us who do colonize Terra, after we get there and settle in to our new homes.
I wish all of you a journey filled with Grace and ease. Regardless of where you find yourself today, tomorrow, next year, or ten years from now, surrender and acceptance ARE the keys to inner peace. Seek peace. Be peace. Be at peace. It is your best armor against fear and your surest road into love.
Peace be with you, today and always,
link to www.operationterra.com
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WATCH: Star Wars-style hover bikes coming in 2017
"Star Wars: Return of the Jedi" enjoys immortal, legendary film status not just because of its inspirational heroes, rounded epic story, or lasting triumph of good over evil – it also has spaceships, lightsabers, and hover bikes.
Once Aerofex's new Aero-X hover bike hits the market in 2017, fans will finally get to live out the adult version of their dreams, and chase down imagined stormtroopers through Endor's green forests on a real-life hover bike capable of flying 10 feet off the ground at 45 m.p.h. for up to 75 minutes, according to the company's website.


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Report: New Boston suspects drove car with 'Terrorista #1' license plates
Two suspects who have been taken into custody in connection with the Boston Marathon bombings drove a car with "Terrorista #1″ license plates.
Azamat Tazhayakov and Dias Kadyrbayev were reportedly arrested, along with one other person, for allegedly making false statements and obstructing justice during the federal investigation into Boston Marathon bombing suspects Tamerlan and Dzhokhar Tsarnaev, officials said Wednesday.
Tazhayakov and Kadrbayev, who are reportedly in FBI custody, drove around in a black BMW with "Terrorista #1″ license plates and were also photographed with Dzhokhar Tsarnaev in Times Square.
Place your bets twitter.com/J_tsar/status/…— Jahar (@J_tsar) March 16, 2013
Tazhayakov and Kadyrbayev were Kazakh students in Massachusetts. They were taken into custody April 19, then released and arrested April 20 for immigration violations. An attorney for Kadyrbayev said that the students were being held for violating their student visas by not attending classes.


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Craigslist mom seeks hottie to take Harvard-bound son's virginity in exchange for new car
Everybody knows that Craigslist is the best place in the world to find random, possibly diseased sex partners and crappy furniture nobody wants.
Naturally, then, a Philadelphia woman who says she wants to find a special female to deflower her "extremely smart but socially awkward" 18-year-old son knew exactly where to turn: the "casual encounters" section of Philly's Craigslist personals.
The young man is allegedly going to Harvard, you see, and his mother says she wants him to be sexually ready when he arrives in Cambridge. Because what kind of mother wouldn't be worried sick about that?
"This is going to sound strange but my son is a senior in High School and I want to help him," the concerned mother writes in the ad placed on July 16 12:49 p.m. Eastern time. The ad is titled "Sugar Baby for my Son – m4w – 18 (Philly)."
It's not clear what this kid is doing still in high school in the middle of July.
He "has never had a girl friend," she explains. She is "sure he's a virgin." He is — or was — also a member of the varsity cross country team at an undisclosed high school. He is "very handsome and extremely fit… There's almost zero body fat on him."
The helpful mother says she wants "to find a cute young girl to date him and turn him from high school nerd to cool college kid."


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Justin Bieber voted most disliked musician
Listen to Justin Bieber on iHeartRadio
Partisan gridlock may be taking over Washington, but a new poll has found that Americans are united over at least one issue - dislike of Justin Bieber.
The survey conducted by "Public Policy Polling" tested favorability ratings of several of the biggest names in music, and the Biebs was the only artist who garnered a high unfavorability rating across all political parties. The majority of Democrats, Republicans and Independents - 54 percent, 52 percent and 56 percent respectively - reported negative views about the 19-year-old pop star.
Overall, Chris Brown and Lady Gaga were the only other artists to receive an unfavorable rating over 50 percent.
When given the choice of popular artists who they'd like to see as President, 34% said they would give their vote to Justin Timberlake, followed by Adele and Beyonce. Only two percent said they'd like to see Rihanna in the White House.


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Help Mariah Carey name dem puppies!
Listen to Mariah Carey on iHeartRadio
(Yahoo!) - Twitter had a cute explosion on Tuesday and it was all Mariah Carey's fault.
The "#Beautiful" singer tweeted out a photo of 2-year-old daughter Monroe (twin bro Moroccan wasn't pictured) sporting purple footie pajamas, glasses, and a hair bow while holding a newborn baby puppy.
Ms Monroe and Squeak E Beans baby boy as yet unnamed! help name dem puppies!! 2 boys 1 girl use #namedempuppies twitter.com/MariahCarey/st…— Mariah Carey (@MariahCarey) May 21, 2013
Squeak E Beans is one of the five Jack Russell terriers already in Carey's brood. The three new pups will also be joining dogs Cha Cha, Jackie Lambchops, JJ, and Jill E. Beans (who appeared in Carey's "All I Want for Christmas Is You" remix with Justin Bieber in 2011).
The puppies just missed sharing a birthday with Carey and hubby Nick Cannon's twins, who turned two April 30 – the same day their parents celebrated their 5-year wedding anniversary. The couple, who renew their vows each year, dressed as Cinderella and Prince Charming (with the twins in gender-appropriate mini-me outfits) for their re-commitment ceremony at Disneyland last month.
What would you name dem new puppies?
Photo Credit Getty Images


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Supreme Court Dismisses Prop 8 Case
(Washington, DC) -- Same-sex marriage is once again legal in the state of California. The U.S. U.S. Supreme Court declined to rule on a challenge to a lower court order overturning Proposition-8. Prop-8 is a voter-approved measure which banned same-sex marriage. In a 5-4 ruling, justices said those who brought the case to the Supreme Court had no legal standing to bring the case.


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This week, Rich talks about Moby Dick, the books he is reading, his upcoming stories in the Beacon Journal and cherishing the thought of a fired Butch Davis.To read more or comment...
I have been asking friends, family and Facebookers for theirs. Join the discussion. It does not have to be a song with summer in the title. (I would include, for instance, both Bobby Darin's "Beyond the Sea" and the Showmen's "39-21-40.") But it should bring to mind the season in some way.
To get you started, some of the suggestions I have had already include Mungo Jerry, "In the Summertime": Ella Fitzgerald's version of "Too Darn Hot"; "Summer in the City" (where I would opt for Quincy Jones's version); LFO, "Summer Girls"; "Summertime" (Billy Stewart, Big Brother, and so on); Jamies, "Summertime Summertime"; Happenings, "See You in September"; Chicago, "Saturday in the Park"; Katrina and the Waves, "Walking on Sunshine"; Don Henley, "Boys of Summer"; just about everything the Beach Boys ever did; Bruce Springsteen's entire "The Wild, the Innocent & The E Street Shuffle"; War, "Summer," and more. Drop your suggestions in the comments section. And thanks!To read more or comment...
The official word: To celebrate the life and musical legacy of Amy Winehouse, MTV is set to air a special dedicated to the soulful singer and her fans this Wednesday, July 27th at 6:30 PM ET / PT. Originally filmed in April 2007, this intimate performance features an introspective Winehouse standing on the verge of superstardom during a rare U.S. television appearance as she graced the MTV studio stage for the first time as part of the music series, "45th at Night." This performance gives fans a look at the awe inspiring talent and soul of Amy Winehouse at the onset of her career as the world just began to realize the depth and power of her voice, sound, and musical genius.
Backed by the The Dap-Kings as well as a sizzling collaboration with Mos Def on "Love Is a Losing Game," Winehouse fans will be treated to innovative live renditions of her classic hits including "Rehab," "Back To Black," "Me & Mr. Jones," and "You Know I'm No Good" during this concert special.To read more or comment...
From the Cleveland Film Commission: During the month of August, Downtown Cleveland will be transformed into a movie set for Marvel Studio's The Avengers, which will require road closures, intermittent traffic delays and alternate routes for motorists and pedestrians. On August 8, E. 9th Street from Euclid Avenue to Prospect Avenue will close for the rest of the
month. Additional streets will be closed during the month of August. All production
is planned to be complete by September 2, 2011.
Details of street closures and delays for motorists and pedestrians:
* E. 9th Street from Euclid to Prospect will be closed August 8 to September 1.
Alternate routes are Carnegie, E. 18th Street and Superior.
* Euclid Avenue from E. 6th to E. 12th will be closed August 15 to August 24. Alternate
routes are E. 6th Street, Superior, E. 18th Street and Carnegie.
* Walnut Avenue from E. 9th to E. 12th will be closed August 22 to September 2.
Alternate routes are E. 12th Street, Superior and Chester.
* South Roadway from Superior to Ontario will be closed August 17 to 30. Alternate
routes are Ontario and Superior.
* Detroit Superior Bridge will be closed August 29. Alternate route is Main Avenue
The official word: IFC will air a marathon of the entire first season of the original Australian version of the comedy series WILFRED on Sunday, July 31 at 12noon et/pt. Eight half-our episodes will air back to back.
The season follows Adam (Adam Zwar) and his difficult yet co-dependent relationship with his girlfriend's dog, Wilfred (Jason Gann). Wilfred is a menacing, vindictive, calculating dog who Adam happens to see as a middle-aged stoner guy dressed in a dog suit. When Wilfred isn't getting high or digging holes in the backyard, he's actively working to undermine any hope Adam has of truly winning his girlfriend Sarah's heart.To read more or comment...
I asked IFC for more info about Hamm's character -- specifically if he is the "clandestine mastermind" mentioned below. The answer: "We're actually keeping his character info under wraps for now as it is a key point in the plot line."
The official word: IFC announced today that Jon Hamm (Mad Men) will guest star in the second season of IFC's original comedy series, The Increasingly Poor Decisions of Todd Margaret, which will premiere in January 2012. Hamm is featured along side stars David Cross and Will Arnett in five of the series' six brand new half-hour episodes. Additionally, musician Johnny Marr returns to score and perform the series' original music to compliment the existing original pieces he created for season one.To read more or comment...
"Sons of Anarchy" is 9/6, "Always Sunny" 9/16, more. The (long) official word: FX opens its fall season with the return of the award-winning hit drama Sons of Anarchy on September 6, and will continue to run Tuesdays at 10 PM ET/PT. The 13-episode season kicks off with a special 90-minute premiere episode. Sons of Anarchy, is an adrenalized drama with darkly comedic undertones that explores a notorious outlaw motorcycle club's (MC) desire to protect its livelihood while ensuring that there simple, sheltered town of Charming, California which remains exactly that, charming. Season four begins with SAMCRO fresh out of jail and back into Charming. Upon their arrival, they encounter new law enforcement and head right back to business. The club is pressed with a decision that could challenge what SOA has always stood for and brings forth an unlikely alliance. With Jax fresh out of a jail and the birth of his newborn son, he is forced to put new plans into motion that could affect the club and ultimately his family. Sons of Anarchy is the #1-rated series in FX history. Sons of Anarchy first moved to the fall in its second season and saw its ratings increase upwards of +70% in viewership and all key demos. Sons of Anarchy was created by Executive Producer/Writer/Director Kurt Sutter and it stars Charlie Hunnam, Ron Perlman and Katey Sagal, who won the Golden Globe® Award for Best Actress in a Drama for her performance last season. The series is produced by Fox 21 and FX Productions.
A mainstay on FX's fall schedule since 2007, It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia begins its seventh season on September 15, airing Thursdays at 10 PM ET/PT for 13 weeks. Sunny has grown into a huge success to become one of the top scripted comedies on cable. Last season, Dee got knocked up, Charlie and Dennis partied in Atlantic City, and Mac fought gay marriage in his own unique, misguided way. This season, tune in to see the Gang prepare for the apocalypse, hit the beach at the Jersey Shore, produce a child beauty pageant, and take a walk down memory lane at their high school reunion. As they say, some things never change, so prepare for more depraved schemes, half-baked arguments and absurdly underhanded plots to subvert one another. It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia was created by McElhenney and is executive produced by McElhenney, Day, Howerton, Michael Rotenberg, Nick Frenkel and Tom Lofaro. The show is produced by FX Productions.To read more or comment...
The official word: Syfy's hit series Eureka gets an animated makeover this December for a special holiday themed episode, proving that indeed anything is possible in the town of Eureka. In the first-of-its-kind episode, the quaint town of geniuses will be transformed into animated versions of themselves. The stand-alone holiday episode will also feature a stellar line up of guest stars lending their voices to a variety of characters – Jim Parsons, Chris Parnell, Matt Frewer and Edward James Olmos. The airdate for the holiday episode will be announced at a later date.
In the episode "Do You See What I See," it's Christmas again in Eureka, and Sheriff Carter (Colin Ferguson) and Allison Blake (Salli Richardson-Whitfield) are secretly planning the perfect holiday surprise for their kids. But something mysterious interferes with the super-photon generator designed to create a faux winter wonderland on Main Street, sending a kaleidoscopic wave of color crashing over Eureka, and leaving the entire town and its inhabitants animated. Adapting to the rules of their animated world, our cartoon heroes encounter talking creatures, anthropomorphized machines, and snowy foes as they race to find a solution before Christmas morning...or face potentially being a cartoon forever.To read more or comment...
The official word: School is back in session September 6th when Community: The Complete Second Season arrives on DVD from Sony Pictures Home Entertainment. The sophomore season of this smart comedy series, starring Joel McHale (TV's "The Soup"), Ken Jeong (The Hangover Part II) and Emmy® winner Chevy Chase, resumes with the return to Greendale Community College where our favorite study group is back at it with more outrageous adventures and unintentional bonding. The quick-witted, sarcastic ensemble cast includes Gillian Jacobs (TV's "The Book of Daniel"), Danny Pudi (TV's "Greek"), Yvette Nicole Brown (TV's "Rules of Engagement"), Alison Brie (TV's "Mad Men"), and Donald Glover (TV's "30 Rock").
Community: The Complete Second Season contains tons of uncensored special features, including cast and crew commentary on every episode, deleted scenes, outtakes on every disc, season 2 cast evaluations, "The Paintball Finale: From Script to Screen" featurette, "Creating Wonderland" featurette, animatics and more!To read more or comment...
I think some of these "low" budgets should be adjusted for inflation. But the official word: As summer blockbusters invade theaters across the country and fans descend upon San Diego for Comic-Con 2011, Turner Classic Movies (TCM) has unveiled a list of movies that show how popular and critical success doesn't require multi-million-dollar budgets. TCM's 10 Favorite Low-Budget Science Fiction Films is a celebration of what can happen when minimal budgets spark maximum imagination.
TCM's list spans from the 1953 monster-on-the-loose thriller The Beast from 20,000 Fathoms, featuring Ray Harryhausen's memorable stop-motion model animation effects, to 2001's offbeat The American Astronaut, a black-and-white western/sci-fi hybrid. The list includes such acclaimed masterpieces as Invaders from Mars (1953) and Invasion of the Body Snatchers (1956), cult classics like The Blob (1958) and I Married a Monster from Outer Space (1958) and independent hits like The Brother from Another Planet (1984) and The Terminator (1984), not to mention the film delightfully hailed as the worst ever made, Plan 9 from Outer Space (1959).To read more or comment...
The official word: DEREK JETER 3K, the hour-long documentary special from HBO and Major League Baseball Productions, will debut THURSDAY, JULY 28 (9:00-10:00 p.m. ET/PT) on HBO. The special chronicles New York Yankees shortstop Derek Jeter's dramatic quest for his 3,000th career hit, which he accomplished versus the Tampa Bay Rays with a remarkable five-for-five performance July 9 at Yankee Stadium. DEREK JETER 3K will take viewers behind the scenes as Jeter made his run at the 3,000-hit milestone, becoming the first player to do it in a Yankees uniform.
Other HBO playdates: July 29 (noon, 2:15 a.m.), 30 (9:30 a.m., 11:15 p.m.) and 31 (8:30 a.m.), and Aug. 1 (1:00 a.m.), 2 (7:00 p.m.), 4 (11:00 p.m.), 5 (4:30 p.m.), 7 (9:45 a.m.) and 11 (8:30 p.m.)To read more or comment...
The official word: Shout! Factory has announced the October 25, 2011 home entertainment release of Barney Miller: The Complete Series, featuring all 8 seasons of the much-loved show. The grand 25-DVD collection includes a 40 page booklet, new cast interviews, commentaries, as well as season one of the spin-off Fish, starring Abe Vigoda, which has never before been released on DVD.
Fans can rejoice as Shout! Factory presents the first-ever comprehensive Barney Miller experience with the release of Barney Miller: The Complete Series. This richly detailed 25-DVD collector's box set edition contains all eight seasons of the iconic series, plus a wealth of exclusive bonus features. These extras include new interviews with Linden, Vigoda and Gail; the series' original pilot, which was called The Life and Times of Barney Miller; commentaries and interviews by series writers Tony Sheehan (TV's King of Queens), Jeff Stein (TV's Mr. Belvedere) and Frank Dungan (TV's Mr. Belvedere); a collectible commemorative booklet filled with vintage photos and featuring an essay by former TV Critic Howard Rosenberg; and season one of the show's spinoff, Fish, starring Vigoda of course. This collector's edition set, priced to own at $159.99, offers all 168 episodes of this long-awaited show, which aired on ABC from 1974-82, and captured a Peabody Award, three Emmy® Awards and two Golden Globes®. The set also includes the standout retrospective episode that pays tribute to Jack Soo, whose passing in Season 5 led the cast, both in and out of character, to salute their beloved colleague.To read more or comment...
Talking about the demise of Borders and the British newspaper scandal.To read more or comment...
The official word: Celebrating 25 years of the need for speed, the action-packed, sexy and breathtaking thrill-ride TOP GUN soars onto Blu-ray with a Digital Copy on August 30, 2011 from Paramount Home Entertainment. The story of an elite group of pilots competing to be the best in their class and earn the title of "Top Gun" captured the imagination of a generation and earned a worldwide box office of over $350 million. Tom Cruise is superb as the cocky but talented pilot known as Maverick and Kelly McGillis sizzles as the civilian instructor who teaches Maverick a few things you can't learn in a classroom. Featuring a sensational soundtrack with unforgettable songs from the 80s including Berlin's "Take My Breath Away" and Kenny Loggins' "Danger Zone", the film also stars Val Kilmer, Anthony Edwards and Meg Ryan.
Available for $19.99, the TOP GUN Blu-ray includes a six-part documentary on the making of the film, a behind-the-scenes featurette, a survival training featurette, interviews with Tom Cruise, four music videos, commentary by producer Jerry Bruckheimer, director Tony Scott, co-screenwriter Jack Epps, Jr. and naval experts, a look inside the real "Top Gun" and more.To read more or comment...
The official word: Bowling, nihilists, a stolen rug and the occasional acid flashback have never been funnier when one of the most popular cult classics in history, The Big Lebowski Limited Edition, debuts on Blu-ray August 16, 2011 from Universal Studios Home Entertainment. From the Oscar-winning Coen Brothers (True Grit, Fargo) and starring Academy Award winner Jeff Bridges (True Grit, Crazy Heart), this acclaimed comedy has been newly re-mastered in high definition to provide longtime fans and first-time viewers alike with the ultimate Lebowski experience.
Available for a limited time with an all-new 28-page companion book featuring an exclusive interview with Jeff Dowd – the real-life inspiration for The Dude – Jeff Bridges's personal, on-set photography, a film timeline, trivia and much more, The Big Lebowski Limited Edition Blu-ray is a must-own addition to any collection. In addition to all-new features exclusive to the Blu-ray™release, The Big Lebowski Limited Edition Blu-ray also offers a digital copy of the film that can be viewed anywhere at any time on the consumers' choice of devices including laptops, tablets, smartphones as well as Internet-connected TVs and set-top boxes.To read more or comment...
The decade of orange soda, Vital Information, and "Killer Tofu" is back and coming to TeenNick! Next week, TeenNick launches "The '90s Are All That" a two-hour, weeknight programming block featuring some of Nickelodeon's iconic '90s hits--complete with deeply integrated, fan-driven social media components on Facebook (www.facebook.com/90sAreAllThat) and at www.90sAreAllThat.com. Sparked by rising demand via the internet and social media platforms from young adults who grew up with Nickelodeon in the 1990s, TeenNick has curated the block and its accompanying online content with the fans' specific requests in mind.
"The 90s Are All That"'s rotating line-up will debut Monday, July 25, at 12 a.m. (ET) with All That, Kenan and Kel, Clarissa Explains It All and Doug. The block will air on TeenNick Monday-Friday from 12-2 a.m. (ET) and will replay from 2-4 a.m. (ET). Through www.facebook.com/90sAreAllThat and at www.90sAreAllThat.com, viewers can reminisce and share their favorite TV memories, watch full episodes, enter sweepstakes to win '90s-based Nick products, access exclusive clips, photos, polls and more.To read more or comment...
The official word: Cartoon Network has signed a development agreement with action-adventure producer Don Murphy and partner Susan Montford and their company Angry Filmworks to develop a live-action motion picture based on the groundbreaking, environment-saving animated hero, Captain Planet and the Planeteers, it was announced today by Stuart Snyder, president and COO of Turner Broadcasting System Inc.'s Animation, Young Adults and Kids Media division (AYAKM). The agreement gives Murphy and his company the exclusive rights to develop and package the property and advance it towards production.
Murphy and Angry Filmworks are most notably credited for the highly successful action-adventure franchise, Transformers (2007), Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen (2009) and Transformers: Dark of the Moon (2011). Murphy and Montford together produced the upcoming Hugh Jackman blockbuster Real Steel with Executive Producer Steven Spielberg. The company also is responsible for such action-oriented films as Shoot 'Em Up (2007), The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen (2003), Apt Pupil (1998) and Natural Born Killers (1994). Angry Filmworks formed in 1998.To read more or comment...
The official word: One loveable canine goes on a magical new adventure for the entire family in MARLEY & ME: THE PUPPY YEARS, cuddling up on Blu-ray and DVD August 16 from Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment. Filmed on location in beautiful Vancouver, British Columbia by acclaimed director Michael Damian (Flicka 2, Moondance Alexander), this touching side story to the original $240 million global box office smash Marley & Me introduces us to Marley as the lovable pint-sized pup.
Fall into puppy love with "the world's worst dog," who now has a frisky voice and an attitude to match. Join Marley for his mischievous puppy years, as he and his summer pal, Bodie Grogan, wreak havoc on a neighborhood dog contest. Marley outwits Dobermans, Shepherds and Collies, while stealing hearts in his own unique and lovable way. Get your paws on MARLEY & ME: THE PUPPY YEARS and fetch big laughs for the whole family!To read more or comment...
The Blu-ray includes a 3D segment. The official word:
"SPARTACUS: GODS OF THE ARENA," the exciting STARZ Original series, is ready for battle when Anchor Bay Entertainment releases the prequel to the acclaimed "Spartacus: Blood and Sand" on Blu-ray™ and DVD September 13, 2011. The two-disc collection contains a muscular amount of bonus features including never-before-seen featurettes, bloopers and behind-the-scenes footage (including a set tour with star Lucy Lawless). The Blu-ray is even mightier with extended episodes, audio commentary on all six episodes and a mind-blowing battle sequence in 3D - a first for a TV on Blu-Ray™ release! A sneak peek of the 3D bonus feature will happen at the STARZ booth at Comic-Con 2011 in San Diego.To read more or comment...
The oficial word: Former heavyweight boxer Eric Esch, more popularly known as Butterbean, barreled into the national ring in the '90s like a 400-pound wrecking ball clad in American flag shorts. Now, Butterbean is taking his hard-earned, tough guy reputation to the streets of his hometown: he's been deputized by the Walker County Sheriff's office, and he's on a one-man mission to bring back a sense of community safety… no matter how many butts he has to kick. In his first-ever television series, BIG LAW: DEPUTY BUTTERBEAN chronicles the Reserve Deputy as he joins his partner and best friend, Deputy Adam Hadder, on the Sheriff's Narcotics Unit in Jasper, Ala. Viewers follow the oversized deputy and get insider access to every training session, patrol ride and bad guy bust that Butterbean experiences, all in the hopes of making Jasper a safer and cleaner place for his kids and grandkids. Join Butterbean as he brings big-time justice to a small town in BIG LAW: DEPUTY BUTTERBEAN, with half-hour episodes premiering back to back every Tuesday beginning August 9 at 10 and 10:30 PM (ET) on Investigation Discovery.
"As the fastest growing network in all of cable, it's imperative that we continue to pursue different genres of programming, so I'm particularly proud to announce that BIG LAW: DEPUTY BUTTERBEAN will be Investigation Discovery's first foray into docu-series," said Henry Schleiff, president and general manager, Investigation Discovery. "Our cameras capture every moment of Butterbean in action and, although this deputy would be a little intimidating if he's the one knocking on your door, I think our viewers will find that he's just a big guy with an even bigger heart trying to make a difference in his community."To read more or comment...
The official word: Two-time Academy Award® winner Jodie Foster (Silence of the Lambs, The Accused) directs and co-stars with two-time Academy Award® winner Mel Gibson (Braveheart - Best Picture and Best Director) in The Beaver, a compelling and original film, slated to arrive on Blu-ray™ and DVD August 23rd from Summit Entertainment.
The Beaver -- which Rolling Stone calls "heartfelt and often painfully funny" – tells the emotional story of a once successful man named Walter Black (Gibson) so plagued by his own demons that he resorts to the use of a beaver hand puppet in order turn his life around and reconnect with his family. Academy Award nominee Jennifer Lawrence (Winter's Bone) and Anton Yelchin (Star Trek) co-star in the film which is both a darkly comic journey of self-discovery and a solemn ode to the strength of family.To read more or comment...
And it's not the one you're thinking. Clip above. The word from ESPN:To read more or comment...
The official word: Warner Bros. Pictures' "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2" smashed the domestic box office record for a midnight opening, taking in a phenomenal $43.5 million. The announcement was made today by Dan Fellman, President, Warner Bros. Pictures Domestic Distribution.
In addition, the film broke the midnight opening record for IMAX theatres, with a $2 million gross on a record number of IMAX screens.
Some midnight showings around the country capped marathon screenings of all the previous Harry Potter movies, leading up to the long-awaited finale. There were fan celebrations at a number of theatres, with audience members dressing up as their favorite characters, turning the release of the film into a shared event.
"Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2" is also the first in the series to be released in 3D, and many lucky fans attending midnight 3D screenings received commemorative Harry Potter 3D glasses to keep as a souvenir.
The midnight opening record came on the heels of the film setting the record for advance ticket sales. Many of the opening day's shows were sold out weeks ago as moviegoers rushed to be among the first people to see the last title in the most successful film franchise of all time.
The many official words: "South Park" marks its 15th season this year. To celebrate, "South Park," COMEDY CENTRAL and South Park Digital Studios will honor the fans that have turned the Emmy® and Peabody® Award-winning series into a cultural phenomenon with a year-long celebration, marking 2011 as "The Year of the Fan."
"What better way to celebrate 15 amazing years of 'South Park,' than by honoring the viewers that have made the iconic series such a long-running success," said Michele Ganeless, president, COMEDY CENTRAL. "These all-encompassing 'South Park' events will take the fans even deeper into the show, allowing them to experience it in every arena."To read more or comment...
Back from hiatus, with some thoughts about Harry Potter, e-readers, Zooey Deschanel, more...To read more or comment...
For those of you hoping for additional closure, note that this calls the package "the final installment" of the story.
The official word: Earthlings, prepare for the return of the Visitors! Queen Anna and her alien followers hatch their secret plan as Warner Home Video (WHV) releases V: The Complete Second Season on DVD and Blu-ray™ on October 18, 2011, for $39.98/$49.99 SRP. Known for its stunning special effects, the sci-fi series' second season is filled with hovering spaceships and jaw-dropping moments of the Visitors morphing into reptilian forms. In addition to all 10 episodes, the two-disc set Blu-ray™ includes an extra hour of bonus content including two behind-the-scenes featurettes: "The Arc of the Story: Mining the Human Emotion" and "A Visual Masterpiece for the Small Screen." . . . .
"Warner Home Video is happy to bring the final installment of V to DVD and Blu-ray for both fans of the series as well as new audiences to enjoy," said Rosemary Markson, WHV Vice President, TV and Special Interest Marketing. "V's stunning visuals coupled with a gripping plot makes this season one that shouldn't be missed." . . .
Many different packages. The official word: The Walt Disney Studios and Jerry Bruckheimer Films are proud to present the #1 worldwide box office success of 2011 - making over $1 billion globally - Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides, in stunning high definition Blu-ray™, eye popping Blu-ray 3D™ (a first for the legendary franchise) and Movie Download on October 18, 2011.
Setting sail on an ocean full of hi-def adventures, Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides will debut in a Limited Edition 5-Disc Combo Pack (1-Disc Blu-ray 3D + 2-Disc Blu-ray + 1-Disc DVD + 1- Disc Digital Copy), a 2-Disc Combo Pack (1-Disc Blu-ray + 1-Disc DVD), and for the ultimate fan a 15- Disc Four Movie Collection. Additionally the movie will be available in 3D and High-Definition Movie Download.To read more or comment...
From NBC: Season Thirteen Auditions for Teams of Two and Individuals to be Held in Austin, the New York tri-state area, Detroit, Charlotte, Washington, DC, Atlanta, St. Louis, Salt Lake City, Phoenix, Chicago, Dallas, Orlando and Los Angeles. . . .
NBC's popular reality series "The Biggest Loser" is launching a 13-city cross-country search to find new contestants for the next edition of the hit show. Individuals and teams of two who have at least 85 lbs. to lose are encouraged to apply for the new season, which will begin airing in January, 2012.To read more or comment...
Here's the bio of our local contestant, the third in three seasons of the show:
Gary Quesenberry
Age: 40
Department of Homeland Security
The official word: The Cinematheque celebrates the 25th anniversary of its first film screening at the Cleveland Institute of Art (which took place 6000 feature films ago on August 8, 1986) with an extended weekend of special films, August 4-8, 2011.
The weekend begins with on Thursday, August 4, at 7:30 pm when the Cinematheque partners with PlayhouseSquare's Cinema at the Square to present the original KING KONG at the Palace Theatre downtown. Tickets cost $5; seniors 65 & over, students, children $4.To read more or comment...
Multiple nods for his "No Reservations" series, and he is coming to Cleveland in November, with a chance for you to meet and greet. The official word:
Culinary bad boy Anthony Bourdain is taking his delicious show on the road, offering a chance for fans to get close to the action for this unique lecture-style appearance. Bourdain brings his stories to PlayhouseSquare's State Theatre for a special one night engagement Friday, November 4th at 8 p.m.; tickets are currently on sale. Just announced: fans can now bid in an online auction for packages that include premium seats in the first several rows and an exclusive meet and greet with Anthony Bourdain during a private post-show reception. The bidding ends on Sunday, July 24, 2011 at 10 p.m. To purchase tickets and for additional information on the auction, visit PlayhouseSquare.org.To read more or comment...
From the TV Academy:
First eligible year: 2011
Year(s) nominated in Outstanding Drama Series: 2011
Nominations this year: 18
Total: 18 nominations, 0 wins
First eligible year: 2007
Year(s) nominated in Outstanding Drama Series: 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011
Nominations this year: 5
Total: 23 nominations, 4 wins
First eligible year: 2007
Year(s) nominated in Outstanding Drama Series: 2011
Nominations this year: 4
Total: 12 nominations, 1 win
First eligible year: 2011
Year(s) nominated in Outstanding Drama Series: 2011
Nominations this year: 13
Total: 13 nominations, 0 wins
First eligible year: 2010
Year(s) nominated in Outstanding Drama Series: 2010, 2011
Nominations this year: 9
Total: 18 nominations, 1 win
First eligible year: 2008
Year(s) nominated in Outstanding Drama Series: 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011
Year(s) won as Outstanding Drama Series: 2008, 2009, 2010
Nominations this year: 19
Total: 68 nominations, 13 wins
All as provided by TV Academy, in the academy's order, after the jump.
To read more or comment...
From the TV Academy, arranged alphabetically. It's a huge list to slog through but I still find it kind of interesting because it shows how many, and how finely sliced, Emmy categories are. And so to the list.
ABC's Grey's Anatomy Sync
I am plowing through various Emmy lists right now; bummed that "Community" was overlooked, happy that "Friday Night Lights" FINALLY got nominated for best drama (with noms also for Chandler and Britton). Impressed at "Justified's" performance, baffled by the Kathy Bates nomination, and so on. I'm going to post sundry lists and data provided by the TV academy. Below is the list of shows' total nominations. (Two for "Hot in Cleveland," BTW.) More to come. ...
21 Nominations
Mildred Pierce
Includes a former Clevelander. The new season begins July 28 on Lifetime. Here's the list:
· Amanda Perna, 25 - Hometown: Ft. Lauderdale, FL; Resides in: New York, NY
· Anthony Ryan Auld, 28 - Hometown: Linden, TX; Resides in: Baton Rouge, LATo read more or comment...
The official word: ABC and Global have jointly announced the renewal of the summer's popular drama series, "Rookie Blue," for a third season. Season Three is currently in development and will move into production in Toronto later this summer.
For ABC, the series ranks No. 1 in Thursday's 10 o'clock hour in Adults 18-49 this summer, finishing No. 1 in its time slot on each of its three original telecasts. Moving to the 10 o'clock hour in its sophomore season, "Rookie Blue" is producing year-to-year gains for ABC, improving by 8% in Total Viewers and by 14% in Adults 18-49 from the Net's Summer '10 averages in the hour. In fact, with viewers and young adults, "Rookie Blue's" sophomore season premiere (on June 23) posted ABC's best summer numbers in the hour with regular programming since August 2008 (August 7).To read more or comment...
Some posts ago I indicated I would write something at length about the season premieres of "Rescue Me" and "Damages." Various time-management issues have kept me from dipping into "Rescue Me," so that will have to wait. Just be aware that, as I indicated in a print column today, the final run begins tonight. As does "Damages," which for its fourth season is currently available only if you have DirecTV.
As I said in print today, you should also be aware that the DirecTV approachis somewhat different from the FX version; the content is a bit rawer, and the cast in the early going does not boast as many name actors as the previous seasons. And DirecTV's commercial-free telecasts make room for more content in each episode.
The new season picks up about three years after the end of the previous one. A big case involves a private military contractor (John Goodman) who is on Ellen's radar.
And, before you start thinking they have grabbed a comedy guy, note that Danson's resume includes a very fine dramatic turn on "Damages," as well as films like "The Onion Field" and "Something About Amelia."
The official word: Multiple Emmy Award and Golden Globe Award winner Ted Danson will join the cast of CSI: CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATION, in a series regular role, on the CBS Television Network. His character will debut in the season premiere on Wednesday, September 21 (10:00-11:00 PM, ET/PT).
The man behind "Gilligan's Island" and "The Brady Bunch" has died at the age of 94. I crossed paths with him at least once, and many years ago, and he was a very, very nice man. But I am at a loss what more to say about him since his reputation rests on some terrible television. Yes, beloved TV. But I can't get around how awful it was.To read more or comment...
The official word: From Marvel Studios and Paramount Pictures comes a unique and compelling twist on the Super Hero genre with the out-of-this-world warrior THOR, debuting on high definition Blu-ray 3D, Blu-ray and DVD September 13, 2011. Called "spectacular" (USA Today), "thrilling, entertaining and cool" (Ain't It Cool News) the phenomenal screen debut of the legendary God of Thunder took audiences by storm, earning more than $440 million at the global box office. When the arrogant god is banished to Earth from his home world, Asgard, and then pursued by the darkest forces of Asgard, he must learn what it takes to become a true hero in this exhilarating story that "delivers epic fireworks" (Rolling Stone). Featuring an all-star cast including Chris Hemsworth, Natalie Portman and Anthony Hopkins, stunning visual effects and explosive action sequences, THOR wields outstanding entertainment that the whole family can enjoy.
The THOR three-disc set includes the film on Blu-ray in high-definition 3D and on high definition 2D, as well as on standard definition DVD with a digital copy. The two-disc Blu-ray/DVD combo pack includes a high definition presentation of the film, plus a standard definition presentation with a digital copy. Both sets come fully loaded with 80 minutes of immersive bonus materials including an exclusive special feature that goes deeper into the Marvel Universe, a sneak peek into Marvel's The Avengers, an unprecedented look inside the world of director Kenneth Branagh and much more.To read more or comment...
The official word: Bravo's hit docu-series "The Millionaire Matchmaker" returns to Los Angeles for its fifth season, premiering Thursday, August 18 at 9 p.m., ET/PT. Over the last four seasons viewers have watched Patti Stanger find love for others, while struggling to find her own Prince Charming. Now she's newly single and ready to mingle, but is love in store for the famed matchmaker herself? For a sneak peek at the upcoming season go to: http://www.bravotv.com/the-millionaire-matchmaker/season-5/videos/coming-up-in-the-fifth-season
In each episode, two wealthy clients are set up with dates hand-picked by Patti. From a former NFL player to "Million Dollar Listing's" Madison Hildebrand, Patti will be challenged to find love for a very diverse roster of rich singles. This season, she calls on celebrity friends Tori Spelling and Jenny McCarthy to provide expert advice for her hapless millionaires. With a brutally blunt approach and a big heart, Patti and her staff – Chief Operating Officer, Destin Pfaff and VP of Matching, Rachel Federoff – give their affluent clients complete transformations with the help of personal shoppers, date coaches and therapists.To read more or comment...
UPDATE: A&E has now postponed the series until a to-be-determined date in the fall.
The official word: A&E Network presents "American Hoggers," a new original real-life series that follows the Campbell family and their struggle to rescue Texas residents and ranches from the devastating chaos caused by millions of invasive wild boars. The 8-episode half-hour series premieres August 16 at 10PM ET/PT.To read more or comment...
Last week was some kind of ride. Most of the energy I had was devoted to preparing for Saturday's premiere of "25 Hill" (although I also managed to turn out a mailbag and a video column). Making this a challenge was a little bit of pneumonia which, thanks to some heavy-duty antibiotics, seems at last to have taken its leave. It wasn't that tough to deal with most of the time, but it knocked my stamina down something fierce. Spent a fair amount of time napping, with concentration-optional TV shows on while I rested. (Saw a lot of "Millionaire Matchmaker," for one thing.)
But let's start catching up. For one thing, I made note of some of the TV premieres this week in a Sunday Channels column, but because of my brain-fog neglected to mention several shows. Among them:To read more or comment...
It will be available through Acme stores. The official ad:
To read more or comment...
The official word: An all-star ensemble cast headlines the romantic comedy Jumping the Broom, debuting on Blu-ray™ and DVD August 9th from Sony Pictures Home Entertainment. The film explores the universal themes of passion, love and family when two families of different backgrounds come together for a wedding. The star-studded cast includes Academy Award® nominee Angela Basset (Best Actress, What's Love Got To Do With It, 1993), Paula Patton (Precious), Laz Alonso (Just Wright, This Christmas), Mike Epps (Faster, The Hangover), Loretta Devine (For Colored Girls, Death at a Funeral) and Julie Bowen (TV's "Modern Family"). Bonus materials include commentary and two behind-the-scenes featurettes: "You're Invited: Behind the Scenes" and "Honoring the Tradition of Jumping the Broom." Jumping the Broom will be available on Blu-ray for $35.99 SRP and on DVD for $30.99 SRP.
SYNOPSIS:To read more or comment...
The official word: TNT has given the greenlight to DALLAS, an all-new series based upon one of the most popular television dramas of all time, about the bitter rivalries and family power struggles within a Texas oil and cattle-ranching dynasty. Famous for its ratings-grabbing cliffhangers, the original series was known for its wealth, seduction, scandal and intrigues. Set in the big state of Texas, TNT's new DALLAS — from Warner Horizon Television — also lives life large and in the fast lane and brings a new generation of stars together with cast members from the original drama series. The new DALLAS stars Josh Henderson (90210), Jesse Metcalfe (John Tucker Must Die), Jordana Brewster (Fast & Furious), Julie Gonzalo (Veronica Mars) and Brenda Strong (Desperate Housewives), and they will be joined by iconic stars Patrick Duffy, Linda Gray and Larry Hagman as J.R. Ewing. TNT has ordered 10 episodes of DALLAS, which is slated to premiere in summer 2012.
TNT will give viewers their first look at DALLAS on Monday with a special sneak peek during the season premieres of the network's blockbuster hits THE CLOSER, which starts at 9 p.m. (ET/PT), and RIZZOLI & ISLES, which airs at 10 p.m. (ET/PT). TNT is unveiling today a website dedicated to the new DALLAS series, where fans can view an online photo gallery that features a first look into the show's new and returning cast. Fans can visit the new site, http://www.dallastnt.com, to watch sneak peeks and behind-the-scenes videos. The website will be periodically updated with new materials.To read more or comment...
The official word: Winner of this year's Academy Award® and Golden Globe® for Best Foreign Language Film, In a Better World, directed by Susanne Bier (Things We Lost in the Fire, After the Wedding), will be released on a 2-disc Blu-ray/DVD Combo Pack on August 30, 2011 from Sony Pictures Home Entertainment. Set in Sudan's refugee camps and in a little Danish provincial town, this compelling and thought-provoking film from Sony Pictures Classics follows two families who cross paths and the unusual and dangerous friendship that develops between them. The In A Better World Blu-ray/DVD Combo Pack will be available for an SLP of $45.99. Special features on the release will include deleted scenes, a commentary with Director Susanne Bier and Editor Pernille Bech Christensen and an interview with Director Susanne Bier.
In addition to its Oscar and Golden Globe wins, In a Better World was an official selection of the 2010 Toronto International Film Festival and the 2011 Sundance Film Festival and won the Marc' Aurelio Grand Jury and Audience Awards for Best Film at the 2010 Rome International Film Festival.To read more or comment...
The official word: Five decades after its historic debut, a timeless classic returns to dazzle audiences young and old. Based on the hit Broadway musical of the same name, the iconic film WEST SIDE STORY returns in brilliant Blu-ray form November 15, 2011 from Twentieth Century Home Entertainment. With a record-breaking ten Academy Awards® including Best Picture, Best Directing and Best Original Score, the film took home more awards than any other movie-musical in the history of cinema. This monumental production not only featured the timeless lyrics from master American composer Stephen Sondheim, but a brilliant score from Leonard Bernstein, and beautiful direction from Robert Wise. WEST SIDE STORY: 50th Anniversary Edition boasts hundreds of hours of restoration, new 7.1 digital audio, and a collection of bonus features spotlighting the harmonious songs and elaborate dances of the original film. . . .
Featuring the famous songs "Maria," "America," "Tonight," and "I Feel Pretty," WEST SIDE STORY: 50th Anniversary Edition showcases thrilling performances by Best Supporting Actress® winner Rita Moreno (The King and I), Best Supporting Actor® winner George Chakiris (Two and Two Make Six) and Russ Tamblyn (How the West Was Won). The Blu-ray will be available in a Limited Edition 4-Disc Boxed Set featuring 2 disc Blu-ray, newly-restored DVD, Tribute CD and collectible memorabilia, as well as a 2-disc Collector's Edition Blu-ray. Prebook is September 7.To read more or comment...
The official word: TLC today confirmed that it has ordered four new LITTLE PEOPLE BIG WORLD specials, bringing back the beloved Roloff family – husband and wife Matt and Amy, and their children Jeremy, Zach, Molly, and Jacob. The groundbreaking series, the first to take viewers into the real-life challenges and celebrations of a family comprised of little and average height people, ran on TLC from 2006 – 2010.
The first special will resolve the cliffhangers left from the series finale, including the state of Matt and Amy's marriage, if the family sold the farm, and what's become of the kids. It will tentatively air in early October, 2011. Production began this week.To read more or comment...
From what I can find, ABC carried "Hallmark Hall of Fame" films as recently as 1989 (when "My Name Is Bill W." aired on the network), perhaps even later than that. But it has certainly felt like a CBS show of late. But not now. The official word:
Hallmark announced today a multi-year deal, beginning with the 2011-2012 TV season, to premiere Hallmark Hall of Fame movies exclusively on the ABC Television Network with encore broadcasts a week later on Hallmark Channel.
"We're delighted our movies will premiere exclusively on ABC starting with our 61st television season," said Brad Moore, president – Hallmark Hall of Fame. "Since our very first talks with ABC last year we've looked forward to this announcement. Our agreement to follow ABC premieres with encores on Hallmark Channel is an exciting, unprecedented use of broadcast and cable."
So I guess the aliens don't get beaten anytime soon. The official word:
TNT has renewed Falling Skies, cable's #1 new series, for a second season. The epic saga about the aftermath of an all-out invasion by an alien military force has been a tremendous hit both domestically and internationally. Falling Skies, which airs Sundays at 10 p.m. (ET/PT), stars Noah Wyle and comes to TNT from DreamWorks Television and executive producer Steven Spielberg. TNT has ordered 10 episodes for the second season, which is slated to air in summer 2012.To read more or comment...
The official word: Don't miss the always fascinating Tara—and her multiple personalities—as she makes the risky choice to go back to school in "United States of Tara" The Third Season, arriving on DVD August 2 from Showtime Networks, CBS Home Entertainment and Paramount Home Entertainment. Toni Collette stars in her multiple award-winning role as one woman haunted by a cast of characters – all in her own head – in the quirky comedy with lots of personality.
The battle for the student body begins when Tara goes back to college with all of her alters—who quickly turn the school upside down and send her family's complicated, ridiculous life into a tail spin. Featuring Eddie Izzard as a special guest star, the third and final season of the critically acclaimed show pushes the boundaries and raises the stakes for Tara and her family. From the mind of creator and writer Diablo Cody and executive producer Steven Spielberg, the series also stars John Corbett, Rosemarie DeWitt, Brie Larson and Keir Gilchrist.To read more or comment...
Kent's Charles Peachock made the cut. Live performances begin Tuesday, with viewer voting. The official list:
Anna Graceman - Juneau, Alaska (singer/pianist)
Attack Dance Crew - Tallahassee, Fla. (drilling dance crew)
Avery and the Calico Hearts - Lubbock, Texas (singing trio)
Captain & Maybelle - Atlanta, Ga. (variety act)
Charles Peachock - Kent, Ohio (juggler)
Dani Shay - Orlando, Fla. (singer/guitarist)
Daniel Joseph Baker - Katy, Texas (singer/pianist)
Dezmond Meeks - Pineville, La. (singer/pianist)
Duo Aero - Saint Paul, Minn (trapeze duo)
Dylan Andre - Zieglerville, Pa. (singer/guitarist)
Echo of Animal Gardens - Lake Geneva, Wis. (animal act)
Fatally Unique - Rockford, Ill. (hip hop dance team)
Fearless Flores Family - Myakka City, Fla. (family daredevil act)
Frank Miles - Los Angeles, Calif. (variety act)
Geechy Guy - Las Vegas, Nev. (comedian)
Ian Johnson - Hebron, Ill. (yo-yo tricks)
J Chris Newberg - Los Angeles, Calif. (comic/musician)
Landau Eugene Murphy, Jr. - Logan, W. V. (singer)
Landon Swank - Wasilla, Alaska (magician)
Lys Agnès - Denver, Colo. (singer)
Mauricio Herrera - Pomona, Calif. (singer/dancer)
Melissa Villasenor - Los Angeles, Calif. (impressionist)
Miami All Stars - Miami, Fla. (dance group)
Mona Lisa - Houston, Texas (twin singers/guitarist duo)
Monet - Charlotte, N. Car. (singer)
POPLYFE - Oakland, Calif. (teen band)
Professor Splash - Lakewood, Colo. (shallow water diver)
Purrfect Angelz - Los Angeles, Calif. (dance troupe)
Sam B. - Falls Church, Va. (dancer)
Sandou Trio Russian Bar - San Antonio, Texas (Russian bar trio)
Scott Alexander - Lancaster, Pa. (magician)
Seth Grabel - Los Angeles, Calif. (magician)
SH'Boss Boys - Atlanta, Ga. (young rap trio)
Silhouettes - Arvada, Colo. (interpretative dance)
Smage Bros. Riding Shows - Elkhorn, Wis. (motorcycle stunt show)
Snap Boogie - Boston, Mass. (dancer)
Squonk Opera - Pittsburgh, Pa. (band)
Steven Retchless - New York, N. Y. (pole dancer/aerialist)
Summerwind Skippers - Boise, Idaho (jump rope team)
Taylor Davis - Leesburg, Ga. (singer/guitarist)
Team iLuminate - New York, N.Y. (glow suit dancers)
The Fiddleheads - Dahlonega, Ga. (bluegrass band)
The Kinetic King – St. Paul, Minn. (variety act)
The Rhinestone Ropers - Jerome, Idaho (variety act)
Thomas John - Woodland Park, Colo. (variety act)
Those Funny Little People - Chicago, Ill. (variety act)
Yellow Designs Stunt Team - Monument, Colo. (BMX bike tricks)
Zuma Zuma – Las Vegas, Nevada (tumblers)
The official word: Time Warner Cable customers can receive free movie ticket vouchers for an exclusive, opening day screening of the final Harry Potter film, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2 in 3D.
The vouchers, redeemable for four (4) general admission tickets to the July 15, 1:05 p.m. show at Cinemark Valley View, are available at Time Warner Cable's Strongsville store. Vouchers** will be distributed to Time Warner Cable customers on a first-come, first-serve basis.To read more or comment...
Which, for some fans, is better than being canceled entirely. The official word:
ABC has licensed its iconic soaps, "All My Children" and "One Life to Live" to Prospect Park, it was announced today by Brian Frons, President, Daytime, Disney/ABC Television Group & Janice Marinelli, President, Disney/ABC Domestic Television and Rich Frank & Jeff Kwatinetz of Prospect Park. The exclusive multi-year, multi-platform deal enables the soaps' stories to continue beyond their finale dates on ABC. ABC will broadcast its final episode of "All My Children" on Friday, September 23rd and will air the final episode of "One Life to Live" in January, 2012.To read more or comment...
I keep meaning to post more here but have not had the energy. A bad cold came on me a week ago. I fought it off enough to write a couple of "25 Hill" stories, which appeared in Sunday's Beacon Journal, along with some routine work. Went to the doctor on Saturday and learned I had pneumonia. Am slowly mending but the energy and concentration levels have been low. Hoping to be a little more vigorous on Thursday, and still more on Friday.To read more or comment...


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Hello University of Akron Zips fans, this is Michael Beaven and I am filling in for Mike Rasor on this post.
The No. 12 Zips men's soccer team concluded a successful weekend at the Indiana University Classic on Sunday with a scoreless tie against the host No. 7 Hoosiers at Jerry Yeagley Field in Bloomington.
UA, which beat No. 3 Notre Dame 3-0 on Friday, won the Classic title before a crowd of over 3,000 fans based on goal differential in the tournament. IU, the alma mater, of Zips coach Caleb Porter, claimed the runner-up spot.
Freshman Kofi Sarkodie, sophomore Chris Korb and redshirt freshman Matt Dagilis, a Firestone High School graduate, comprised the Zips starting defense for the second consecutive game. Senior goal keeper Evan Bush recorded six saves and posted his 37th career shutout.
Zips freshman Teal Bunbury appeared to have a goal in the 49th minute after Bush kicked the ball down the pitch and Bunbury kicked it into the net. The goal was taken away when an official ruled Bunbury made too much contact with a Hoosier defender to control the ball.
Sarkodie, junior Ben Zemanski (CVCA) and sophomores Steve Zakuani and Anthony Ampaipitakwong were each named to the 11 member All-Tournament Team and Zakuani was named the Offensive MVP.
Sarkodie, Zakuani and Ampaipitakwong each scored a goal in UA's exciting victory over Notre Dame.
UA will open the home portion of its schedule against West Virginia at Lee Jackson Field at 7:30 p.m. on Friday in the Akron Tournament.
To read more or comment...
Mike is still out of town, so I thought I'd throw this up real quick.
The New Orleans Saints waived former Akron offensive lineman Andy Alleman yesterday. He was a third-round draft pick of the team last year. He lost his spot to rookie Carl Nicks.
The Chiefs waived wide receiver Jabari Arthur. He is expected to play in the CFL.
Cornerback Reggie Corner is listed on the second team on the Buffalo Bills' depth chart. He was drafted in the fourth round this year.
Hello folks, Dan Kadar here live blogging for an absent Mike Rasor.
Game over. Wisconsin 38, Akron 17. Not embarrassing, but there are some things the Zips clearly need to work on. The positives were Chris Jacquemain actually not looking awful, Dennis Kennedy and Andrew Johnson looking pretty good in limited carries and receiver Deryn Bowser. He finished with five catches for 76 yards. He kind of looked like a dependable receiver that this team really needs.
(2:52) Hey, the Zips just covered the spread! So, there's that at least.
(2:46) Chris Jacquemain just unleashed a calamity of errors which fortunately only ended up being an incomplete pass.
(2:44) It's a little surprising Matt Rodgers wasn't in this drive for the Zips. It's not like Jacquemain has been tering it up. It would be nice to see what Rodgers could do in real in-game action.
(2:42) Andre Jones is not having a good day. That is all.
(2:32) The pass by Andrew Johnson looked neat, but why in a game you're losing by 28 points, why unleash trick plays? Wouldn't you want to keep those in reserve for a game that will matter? Still, Johnson has probably been the most positive part of this game.
(2:25) Kiel is happy. Wisconsin is getting close to covering the spread. He is a true Zips fan.
(2:24) Brookhart needs to really decide if Tyler Campbell should be getting this much playing time on the defense. It seems like he's been on the bad end of a lot of plays. Each Wisconsin running back is averaging more than five yards per carry. That is a big problem.
(2:15) Having tasty pizza makes Wisconsin's 21-point lead a little more palpable (I bet Rasor never gives you valuable insight like that). Anyway, it's clear following this game, that the Zips need Ryan Bain to get healthy to anchor the defensive line.
(1:51) Just as the Zips were starting too look good stopping the run, they give up another huge gain to PJ Hill. That's reason enough for me to run out and pick up some pizza. Against a power runner like Hill, this shows some of the weaknesses of the 3-3-5. The Zips defensive backs are having a real hard time making tackles.
(1:47) One thing the Zips are going to be able to take from this game is the play of the offensive line. For the most part, Jacquemain has remained free of pressure. So that can't be the excuse for why he keeps over- and under-throwing receivers.
(1:21) 17-10 going into halftime, which is a much more positive outlook than this live blog might indicate. We'll see how much more PJ Hill gets the ball again in the second half. He did really well in the first quarter, but didn't get as many carries in the second half.
(1:17) I figured the Badgers would score and we'd call it a half. Instead, Bryan Williams gets an interception return to the Wisconsin 40-yard line.
(1:14) As bad as the game started off, at least the Zips defense has started paying a little better. The pass coverage, playing three or five yards off the wide receiver, is a little puzzling, but it's saved the Zips from getting burnt on any deep passes. It will be interesting to see how this defense does against a passing team.
(1:09) Andre Jones is already back on defense. That's odd. I wonder if that's alrady a permanent thing.
(1:03) Even if the Zips don't score here, the Zips are putting together a second straight nice drive.
(12:54) Nice drive by the Zips end with a touchdown to Merce Poindexter, the captain of the offense. It looks like the Zips did a lot of option read plays on that drive.
(12:50) In this game, is breaking the 50-yard line considered a moral victory? Bowser makes a nice first impression with a leaping catch.
(12:48) A plus! Andrew Johnson has looked pretty good at running back and Dennis Kennedy continues to get positive yards. On the negative, Andre Jones just got hit in the chest with the ball. And didnt catch it. Again, this team cannot afford to make stupid mistakes.
(12:39) After one quarter, the best thing to say is that at least the scoring pace has slowed down some. Maybe the second quarter will be better.
(12:34) It seems like every other Wisconsin play on offense goes for at least seven yards, which is alarming. The Zips are packing the line, but it's not doing much to help against the run. Even Wisconsin's backups are loking good against this defense.
(12:28) Penalties are starting to pile up for Akron on the second drive. Already two false start penalties. On a team that is going to be an underdog in most games, the Zips can't be committing stupid penalties like that. Jacquemain looked good batting the ball down after it was tipped. Maybe he has a place on the Zips volleyball team.
(12:21) It's already 14-0 and there is still seven minutes left in the quarter. This is going to be a long day. Hopefully no one gets hurt.
(12:19) Hill just broke a long run all the way down to the 1-yard line. That's a 47-yard run. He's gotta be near 100 yards. Will he hit 250 or 300 for the day? And where have teh Zips linebackers been all game?
(12:15) One Zips drive, one three and out. But hey, at least Chris Jacquemain has good pocket presence to throw the ball away. Oof. Dennis Kennedy looked good on first down, though.
(12:10) It's only Wisconsin's first drive and things already look poor. Their running back, P.J. Hill, is clearly going to have a big day. Oh, Wisconsin just scored. Watching compatriot Kiel Fleming thinks Wisconsin scoring 62 points is a conservative estimate.
Men's soccer
Akron beat No. 3 Notre Dame 3-0 in its season opener.
To the best of my knowledge, it's the highest ranked team the Zips have ever beaten. Scoring goals were Anthony Ampaipitakwong, Steve Zakuani and Kofi Sarkodie.
Next up for the Zips is No. 7 Indiana, the alma mater of coach Caleb Porter. The Zips and Hoosiers will play Sunday at 2 p.m.
This is the most important season in Zips history.
1) The coach's job relies on it. Those of us who know J.D. Brookhart personally, we like him. He's a good guy, a better motivator and an outstanding recruiter who has a flash of bravado and flair for the unconventional. There is no question he's a tremendous position coach. He transformed a horrific special teams unit into one of the nation's best.
The problem: He isn't winning with his own recruits. Some people just aren't destined to lead a college football program. Heck, there's only 119 of these people. This season will determine whether the bulk of Brookhart's career will be as a college head coach or an NFL position coach.
Seven wins saves Brookhart's job. Six makes him pretty secure. Five, and it's 50-50. Four, and sayonara. Of course, there are intangibles to factor, such as whether the team improved over the season or regressed and whether the players stayed out of trouble (and eligible).
If you ask me, he'd be fine if he took a more active approach with his offense and got rid of that gimmicky 3-3-5 defense.
2) The "fear" is fading. Akron won the MAC Championship in 2005. This is 2008, and nobody really fears the Roo. That monumental year is fading into the past. Few of the contributing championship players are on the roster. Fans are beginning to forget the Zips once mattered. A winning season could get the program back on track and help advance the national perception that Akron is a successful mid-major.
3) InfoCision Stadium ticket sales. A perfect storm is possible. Can you imagine another bowl game, coupled with the knowledge that this up-and-coming team will have a shiny new home? The buzz surrounding the program would double that in December 2005. You saw how that combination helped the Indians in the mid-90s. Akron could similarly establish a tradition of sell-outs, and it could start in 2008.
Quarterback -- I want to believe, Chris Jacquemain. I really do. Until you prove to me otherwise, you will just be a low-ceiling, inconsistent player who makes bad decisions. Despite my predisposition, I cannot say Matt Rodgers looked much better this month. My only hope is that Brookhart will play the best passer, and that passer can move the offense, which will be dangerous if only it finds an above-average quarterback.
Wide receiver -- People around the team seem satisfied with the depth at receiver. To me, it's just a bunch of guys who have never impressed me in a meaningful game (but maybe could). I liked Dashan Miller and Jeremy Bruce, a lot. Alphonso Owen might be a good third receiver, but hopefully Deryn Bowser takes over that role. Andre Jones needs to play more defense -- at least until the secondary shows it floats. Look out for Gary Pride and Curtis Brown, too. Those two have a real future with Akron.
Tight end -- Merce Poindexter is the offensive captain. Hopefully he will bring some consistent pass-catching, as well as leadership, to the position. Brian Flaherty should get his nose in the action and grab some important first downs.
Offensive line -- With its youth and talent, Brookhart stocked the line for the next few seasons. The foundation is Chris Kemme, who should plow holes for the Zips running backs.
Running backs -- The coaching staff tried to figure out how to distribute snaps between Dennis Kennedy, Alex Allen and Andrew Johnson. You can be certain that the position is in good hands. (Watch out for DeVoe Torrence surging into the rotation, too -- sort of like Bryan Williams last year.)
Special teams -- All of the positions seem solidified, even down to the backups. The Zips could win two games solely from special teams supremacy.
Defensive line -- The depth of the d-line makes me even angrier about the 3-3-5. This way, however, the Zips are insulated from injury, like the setback to Eric Lively. The other problem with a 3-3-5 is that it won't allow Ryan Bain and Almondo Sewell to shine as much as they otherwise would. It's like having Rembrandt smothering beige paint in the projects. OK, not quite that, but you see what I mean.
Linebackers -- The team needs more playmakers here. Besides the steady Kevin Grant and Doug Williams, Akron needs someone to force turnovers and sacks like Brion Stokes did. Sean Fobbs and Aaron Williams are candidates for that.
Secondary -- Cross your fingers. Hope you play a lot of teams like Wisconsin, who prefer to run (but perhaps aren't as good at it as the Badgers). Pray for health. Rub your rabbit's ear for a few break-out athletes. What the team lacks in coverage, it must overcompensate in pressure on the quarterback.
Why I'm excited: The offensive and defensive lines are a strength, for once. In football, that's a formula for success. At the least, it gives you a chance to stay in the game.
Why I'm concerned: An experienced quarterback will pick apart our secondary like a week-old scab. Touchdown after touchdown; I can see it coming. Combine that with the fact that Jacquemain can't match that -- or at least he hasn't yet. That sounds like a lot of blowouts.
Why I'm excited: Depth at running back!
Why I'm concerned: No running game can survive when the defense stacks the box because it doesn't have to worry about a passing game.
Why I'm excited: Opposing secondaries will have to do more than double-team Jabari Arthur to contain the Zips' passing game.
Why I'm concerned: Arthur isn't even here anymore. That leaves the Zips with ZERO proven receivers and potentially no one who can find them open.
Why I'm excited: The media's gloomy predictions have lit a fire under the team.
Why I'm concerned: Every bad team says that. Early season motivation wears off like a cheap temporary tattoo anyhow.
Why I'm excited: The Zips have a favorable MAC schedule, dodging Miami and playing Bowling Green at home. They also have a two-week break to heal up before the home stretch.
Why I'm concerned: The MAC has as much parity as ever. Heck, Buffalo or Temple could play in Detroit. There are no cheap wins this year.
Why I'm excited: One last season of booze, burgers, brats and blistering cold at the Rubber Bowl.
Rodgers takes over before MAC season starts and slowly becomes one of the conference's better passers. The secondary is bad, but the Zips get a good draw against MAC teams that can't pass (Kent State, Toledo, Buffalo and Ohio). The team gets an extraordinary boost from the return games. The Zips go 7-5, play in a bowl game and head to InfoCision Stadium after regaining the excitement from 2005. (Yeah, I'm a homer. So sue me.)
@ Wisconsin: L @ Syracuse: W vs. Ball State: L @ Army: W vs. Cincinnati: L @ Kent State: W vs. Bowling Green: L @ Eastern Michigan: W vs. Toledo: W vs. Buffalo: W @ Ohio: W @ Temple: L
Two days before the football season opener, the university announced it supplemented its coverage with an FM station.
Along with 1350 AM, Akron fans also can listen to 106.9 FM.
For listeners who battled fuzzy signals on 1350, this must be welcomed news. Linking up with a popular music network might also add to the fanbase.
The trio of Steve French, Joe Dunn and Frank Stams will return this season. The Wisconsin game starts at noon, EST.
Tom Gaffney wrote a robust preview of the Zips season.
One interesting tidbit: Eric Lively is out at least three weeks with an elbow injury. The story also gives a depth chart of sorts at wide receiver, which I was interested in. Andre Jones, Jeremy Bruce and Alphonso Owen will get most of the playing time at first, until the juco guys get going.
You should definitely read Mr. Gaffney's story and be glad he's the beat writer.
Fear not, newspaper readers.
The Canton Repository's story is more positive about this season. Writing Mike Popovich featured Chris Jacquemain in its season preview.
If you're wondering about the Beacon Journal's preview, it's coming tomorrow.
A Columbus Dispatch preview is much less optimistic than the Plain Dealer's analysis.
"It's difficult to see which teams the Zips can hurdle," the article says.
Elton Alexander of the Plain Dealer wrote a couple of interesting articles to preview Akron's season.
First, he breaks down the team and seems pretty optimistic about most positions. The other story gives five predictions for the MAC season.
I plan to do some sort of season preview if I can get a spare half hour.
A ZipsNation.org member created a Yahoo! Pick'em League.
I won't be commissioner this time, but you should join for some healthy competition. I will keep scoring updates on my blog, too. Click here, then register with Yahoo and fill in the following data.
Group #: 21243 Password: zippy08
Yes, Kent State fans, you're welcome to participate, too.
Can you believe the college football season starts in five days?
The Zips will play at Wisconsin to open the season. The Badgers are ranked No. 13 in the nation. Here is a quick preview to get you up to speed on them.
The early line is Wisconsin minus 26. It's hard to say whether the Zips will cover until we see J.D. Brookhart's injury report. You already know my opinion: Rest the stars for a winable game.
I will not be in town this weekend to watch the game. My girlfriend surprised me with a trip to Cape Cod. I will have some comments when I return, however.
Men's soccer
The ABJ's Patrick McManamon featured Steve Zakuani in his weekly column today, talking about how the uber-talented sophomore found Akron.
Believe me when I say that the team is THRILLED that Zakuani chose to return to Akron, rather than signing with a professional team. That was a realisitic scenario.
By the way, No. 12 Akron lost 2-0 to No. 24 North Carolina in a preseason match in Indiana. The real stuff begins Friday when Akron plays No. 3 Notre Dame.
Akron must have more consistent scorers, especially early in the season when the Zips play a strong schedule.
J.D. Brookhart told the ABJ's Tom Gaffney that the Zips stunk during yesterday's scrimmage, which was closed to the media.
The GoZips.com article paints a slightly different hue, saying the team worked hard, but injuries made the scrimmage almost fruitless.
In my opinion, the team will just have to suffer through these next couple weeks until some of the core pieces return. And there is NO reason, repeat, NO reason to risk further injury for Ryan Bain, Dennis Kennedy, et. all, against No. 12/13 Wisconsin.
While it may seem great to give Wisconsin all you can, how much good did that do for Akron last season? The Zips played even with Ohio State for a half, but that means little when you lose a bunch of games that you're supposed to win and finish 4-8.
I plan to drop by practice today and get a more specific rundown of the MASH unit.
Men's basketball
My Kent State counterpart, Jonas Fortune, reports that the Flashes have added two interesting walk-ons.
First is 5-foot-7 Cameron Joyce, brother of Dru Joyce. Second is Tyree Evans, a talented, yet troubled, shooting guard who was on Maryland's roster last spring. He has been convicted of several serious crimes.
This might not be the smartest move, considering a first-year coach already has a huge task in conforming his team. However, if Geno Ford trusts his senior leadership to keep Evans in line, it might pay off.
Men's basketball
Rivals.com boosted Zeke Marshall's ranking several slots to No. 39 in the nation. He remains the seventh-best center.
Marshall's mother posted an update on the progress of the 6-foot-11 (and growing) future Zips' center over at ZipsNation.org.
From what I hear, it makes no difference that Marshall has committed to Akron. Big-time coaches will still try to sway him away from the Zips. Obviously, they will point to attendance, among other things. Still, it's heart-warming to know that Marshall is not ego-driven and wants comfort over spotlight.
He has the maturity to realize that the NBA will find NBA talent, regardless of the college. Just look at last June's draft. You had four mid-major players go in the first round. A 7-footer has an even better chance to stand out, like Chris Kaman did at Central Michigan earlier this decade.
Zips fans should take additional solace in the fact that Akron's coaches have done everything possible to monitor Marshall. One assistant quipped that the only game that a Zips' assistant missed was a back-yard contest between Zeke and his brother.
Still, signing day in November cannot come soon enough for me.
Former Zip and current New York Giant receiver Domenik Hixon scored three touchdowns on a Monday Night Football exhibition against the Browns.
Hixon started while regulars Plaxico Burress and Amani Toomer sat out with nagging injuries.
The past 10 months, Hixon has established himself as a rising star in the NFL. He definitely needed a change in location after the Kevin Everett injury. One of Hixon's three first-quarter touchdowns was a kick return, and that will be his main role in the immediate future.
The Browns' backups did close the lead to 3 after Cleveland trailed 30-3, but it's the starters whose performance really matters in these games.
Randy Greenwood committed to Akron last week, then he broke his leg.
The injury will cost the Lake Catholic running back his senior season. He expects Akron to honor its scholarship offer.
Greenwood runs (ran) a 4.54 in the 40-yard dash, according to Rivals.com. He also has interest in Cincinnati, Iowa, Northwestern, Penn State and Pittsburgh. His high school coach said colleges should look into using him as a receiver or defensive back.
The Zips offense came alive Wednesday morning.
Chris Jacquemain and Matt Rodgers combined for 32-of-58 for 463 yards and five touchdowns.
"Tremendous progress," coach J.D. Brookhart called it. "For the first time, we have two units that can operate."
How good were things going for the quarterbacks? Lineman Zack Anderson caught a tipped Jacquemain pass and rumbled 32 yards with it.
Brookhart and the coaches will talk about naming a starter tonight. However, the coach said Jacquemain is clearly the No. 1 at this point.
"He makes good decisions 99 percent of the time," Brookhart said.
The coach was also quick to prop up Rodgers, saying he was comfortable with having the freshman behind center.
Jeremy Bruce, Andre Jones and Dashan Miller were the main beneficiaries from the aerial attack. They should be the top three receivers on the depth chart.
Sorry, Zipaholics. Due to a misunderstanding, Dan Kadar and I didn't get video today. We plan to shoot the scrimmage tomorrow evening, however.
The receivers and DeVoe Torrence impressed coach J.D. Brookhart during Friday's practice, according to GoZips.com.
It was the team's first practice in full pads. Torrence finished off the scrimmage with a long touchdown run. Dashan Miller and Andre Jones also made big plays.
I plan to drop by camp on Tuesday with Dan Kadar for another video update.
The team announced the arrival of blue-chip transfer Dale Martin from Louisville.
The running back was a four-star recruit according to Rivals.com and Scout.com when he came out of Bolingbrook, Ill. -- the same high school as Ryan Bain.
Louisville fans are calling this a big loss. They speculated that Martin may have been frustrated by some injuries, and he did not like his outlook to get playing time early. Also, Martin committed to Louisville shortly before coach Bobby Petrino left for the Atlanta Falcons. After Petrino left, Martin had to be talked into keeping his commitment.
Martin's highlight videos show me a speedy runner with a tremendous sense of balance. To take down Dale Martin, you must pop him AND wrap him up.
Martin had scholarship offers from Nebraska, California, Florida, Tennessee and many others. He will sit out 2008 and be eligible next season. GoZips.com lists him as a redshirt freshman.
The unusual part about the transfer is that the university announced it. Typically, you have to milk these things from coaches.
A few people have asked me what I think about Akron taking on Devoe Torrence. To be honest, I really haven't formed an opinion. I will talk it out through this blog post. Hopefully, I will have an informed take on it by the end.
Optimist: There is no disputing Torrence's talent. With the logjam of running backs this season, Torrence's arrival does not sound like a necessary gambit. Next fall, however, we could be talking about how sorely the Zips need a reliable back since Dennis Kennedy, Alex Allen and Andrew Johnson have left.
It would be the equivalent to the Zips having an All-MAC passer on the burner when Luke Getsy retired. Rather, Chris Jacquemain and Carlton Jackson played patty-cake on the way to a four-win season.
Pessimist: But what's the point if Torrence gets in trouble? J.D. Brookhart's team already has NCAA sanctions to deal with. And what about all of those troubled souls whom he ejected last fall? Isn't this just replenishing the supply?
O: But let's not get carried away. Torrence was never guilty of anything. There is no indication he will be a bad student or leave the program, which would hurt the team's Academic Progress Rate.
P: That may be true, but you have heard from a few people that Torrence is cocky. That won't play well on a mid-major team, especially if he leads the offense. Torrence showed that he is not the ultimate teammate when he refused to play linebacker after transferring to Washington High School from Canton South.
O: He's cocky. So what? Go up and down that roster and I'm sure you'll find some guys whose heads don't fit in the Airdock. I want to see you complain about cockiness when Torrence is trampling MAC defenses for 200-yard games.
P: Come on, Optimist. This stinks of desperation. Brookhart knows he'll get canned without a .500 season or better. Torrence is a band-aid -- and one that has more infection on it than medicine.
O: I stand by Brookhart. And I stand by this decision. The coaching staff has a lot to lose if it doesn't work. They investigated and thought it to be a prudent decision. How do you -- or any fan -- have the knowledge or experience to dispute that? The team knows it cannot have an image problem when it's trying to sell tickets for InfoCision Stadium.
P: OK. You win.
O: That's right, I win. At least we can agree that Paul Rodgers is the best singer of all time.
P: Amen, brother.
Coach J.D. Brookhart confirmed today that top-recruit Devoe Torrence has joined the team.
Before making the decision, the coaches investigated the opportunity and met several times with Torrence, who recently was acquitted of rape of a 12-year-old girl.
"We've always stayed in contact (with Torrence)," Brookhart said. "He was not signed because of an incident that the United States declared him innocent.
"We sat down and had a lengthy discussion. We investigated him, and we feel good about him."
Brookhart sees Torrence as a running back, where the Zips have a wealth of depth. However, the coach would not rule out seeing Torrence play this season.
"Everyone's going to get a chance," the coach said.
A reliable source tells me that Devoe Torrence, the nation's No. 6 athlete who was recently acquitted of rape charges, will join the Zips for fall camp which starts Sunday.
If true, Torrence would be the most touted recruit ever to play for Akron. He had scholarship offers from Ohio State, Michigan and other BCS schools before his legal issues arose. Torrence committed to Ohio State, but never signed a letter of intent in February because the Buckeyes retracted their scholarship offer.
Torrence was charged with having sex with a 12-year-old girl. The judge declared that evidence was lacking, mainly because the victim admitted her tendency to lie.
Torrence, 6-foot-2 and 210 pounds, played running back at Massillon Washington High School. Although some colleges felt he'd make a terrific linebacker, Torrence was slated to play running back for the Buckeyes, too.
Running a 4.55 in the 40-yard dash, Torrence is not the fastest or shiftiest rusher around, but it takes a lot of manpower to tackle him. He is a physical runner who sheds tacklers with ease. Rivals.com gives him four stars and calls him the No. 66 player in the nation for the 2008 class. Scout.com is less praising, saying Torrence is only the No. 102 running back.
As I stated, this is from a source that I trust, but I cannot verify the story myself. Given that Torrence joined the team in the past couple days, the 2008 roster does not reflect his addition.
If true, Torrence would join a crowded backfield that includes incumbent (sort of) Dennis Kennedy, University of Miami transfer Andrew Johnson, reliable Alex Allen and short-yardage runner Joe Tuzze. His fastest route to the field might be on defense.


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Highway Patrol: Investigation Into Tennessee Bus Crash Just Beginning
(Dandridge, TN) -- The road may be open after yesterday's horrific bus crash, but the investigation is far from over according to Sergeant Bill Miller of the Tennessee Highway Patrol.
Eight people died in the accident and 14 more were injured, two critically, when a bus crashed into an SUV and a tractor trailer. One of the bus's tires appears to have had a problem, causing the bus to cross a median and hit the other vehicles. The bus was bringing a group of North Carolina seniors home from a three-day church jubilee. Six of the dead were on the bus, while one person died in each of the other two vehicles.


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LISTEN: Richie Incognito's high school coach speaks out about bullying
(George Lin) Suspended Dolphins player Richie Incognito played for former Glendale Mountain Ridge High School Coach Jim Ewan.
Ewan describes Incognito as a tough, talented player at 6'3" and just under 300 pounds.
The two have not kept in touch since Incognito left school.
Ewan is not blaming the Dolphins for taking action against his former player saying the team needs to come first.


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WATCH: Metallica debut movie trailer at Comic-Con
Listen to Metallica on iHeartRadio
Metal icons Metallica are showing off their twist on the typical concert film. They debuted the trailer for "Metallica Through the Never" at Comic-Con this past Friday.
In addition to the band's performance at Vancouver's Rogers Arena, the film stars Dane DeHaan as a delivery boy whose sent out to get something the rockers need. But along the way, he gets caught up in an epic battle between angry rioters and police.
Metallica frontman James Hetfield explained during a panel discussion at the San Diego event that the movie is multi-layered. He adds that "it doesn't tell you what it's supposed to be."
"Metallica Through the Never" premieres in IMAX 3D on September 27th, with a wide release scheduled for October 4th.
Check out the trailer below:
Photo Credit Getty Images