Page 736 – Movie TV Tech Geeks News

8 Things in Windows 10 Windows 8 Haters Will Like

-

February 1, 2015

8 Things in Windows 10 Windows 8 Haters Will Like

Microsoft’s Windows 8 Operating system was fresh, fast and different. It ushered in a new PC category known as hybrids, half tablet/half laptop. However, its being ‘different’ has also earned it the distinction of being the most hated Windows version since Windows Vista and Windows Me. Foremost of its problems was the removal of the Start Menu that Windows users have become very familiar with since Windows 95 and replacing it with rows of colorful tiles that occupy the whole screen. Second is the new type of full-screen apps formerly named ‘Metro’ which again occupy the whole screen setting aside multi-windowed multi-tasking users are familiar with. Third, is the various interface changes that make Windows 8 a radical departure from the familiar Windows 7 and Windows XP.

Though Windows 8 is not without its merits. Under the hood, it’s much faster. More secure and not resource intensive. It can run smoothly on systems where Windows 7 crawls. For touch-based systems for which it was obviously designed for, it’s a joy to use. Unfortunately, not everyone is a fan of touch screens, the same way people back in the day had an aversion to plastic rodents with wheels. Microsoft and the PC industry suffered a terrible backlash due to Windows 8. Even PC vendors openly offer downgrades to their customers for computers pre-loaded with Windows 8. Adoption was slow and divided between people who actually like Windows 8 and those who can’t be bothered to downgrade. Windows 8 haters either downgrade, stay with older versions like Windows 7 or the ancient Windows XP, or shift to other platforms like Linux, Chrome OS and Macs.

But Windows 10, not Windows 9 is right around the corner, promising great things to entice Windows users, old and new, the disgruntled and the enthusiasts. Microsoft listened to its users, made compromises as well as added new things to earn their operating system its current number. Microsoft is not about to abandon its visions for Windows 8 though. Windows 10 offers the best of both worlds for users of Windows 8 and older versions.

Below are eight features in Windows 10 which even Windows 8 haters will like.

The Return of the Start Menu – though not exactly a feature and more of a comeback, the return of the Start Menu should be enough to bring back the throngs of Windows users who left Windows 8 for Linux, Macs and Chromebooks and finally be adopted by people who continue to hang on to their Windows 7 and Windows XP. Though a fresh take on launching programs, the problem with the Start Screen was that when users press the Windows button on their keyboards, they’re unceremoniously taken away from the desktop and shown the full Start Screen leaving them confused and sometimes scared that whatever they’re working on would be lost. The new Start Menu brings the best of both worlds to old and new users alike by having a traditional Start Men style at the left and several Windows 8 tiles to the right. Windows 8 haters can unpin the tiles totally while Windows 8 enthusiasts can resize the Start Menu full screen.

Continuum – is Microsoft’s term for Windows hardware-based adoption. As Dr. Seuss might say, a tablet is a tablet is a tablet. Windows can change its mode of operation to desktop or tablet mode depending on whether a keyboard is detected. One big problem with Windows 8 was its schizophrenic nature when used as a desktop operating system. When Windows 8 boots, it opens to the Start Screen and not the desktop confusing new users and forcing them to figure out how to get to the desktop despite having a desktop tile.

Cortana Integration – Windows Phone’s own personal assistant just like Apple’s Siri is now on Windows 10. Users can now ask about the weather or any other information on their Windows laptops, tablets and even workstations. Cortana currently works on the latest Windows 10 Technical Preview version but she still has a long way to go. Microsoft promises that Cortana can learn from user habits and ensure smooth usage as possible, meaning users can actually use Cortana as a personal assistant during work.

Spartan – is an all-new browser program from Microsoft. It’s separate from Internet Explorer and built from scratch. Internet Explorer will still be around to ensure backwards compatibility with web-enabled Enterprise apps. But Spartan is touted as the browser for the consumer. Faster and simplified, casual users will no longer have to put up with the much-maligned, slow and bloated Internet Explorer. Spartan is designed to handle the ‘modern web’.

Native Multimedia Codecs Support and XBOX App – before, when loading various long-established multimedia audio and video files like OGG and MKV, one has to search for the appropriate codes or install programs such as VLC and Media Player Classic. Windows 10 now supports these file types and more. Windows 10 also brings back native DVD playback which was removed from Windows 8.

Improved/Integrated Settings – Unfortunately for Windows 8 and its Metro Apps, settings seemed to be all over the place. Users were confused as to where to go to personalize or set their computers. There’s the PC settings icon accessible when mousing to the far right and there’s the Charms bar when mousing down. Control Panel is practically hidden until one goes way down the selections in PC Settings. Windows 8.1 solved the Control Panel problem when the user right-clicks on the faux Start button but the move remained awkward. Individual settings for apps had to be done via the PC settings and not in the apps themselves (novel but misunderstood). Metro App settings are now be located on the apps themselves. All Settings or the new Control Panel can now be found at the integrated Notification Center when users click on the notification icon at the system tray.

Mobile Integration – Microsoft promised seamless integration of its Windows platform through various devices whether it’s a desktop, laptop, tablet and mobile phone. Applicable settings are synced on all Windows devices. Users can share the same OneDrive repository on all their devices.

Windows Holography – Microsoft saved the best for last. It came as a complete surprise to everyone who attended the last Windows 10 Conference and later surprised the world. No one knew Microsoft would be entering the Augmented Reality realm of Google Glass, Magic Leap and Oculus Rift. Their approach however was giving practicality to the wearable computer/visual headset. Microsoft introduced the Holo Lens which surprised and enthused normally passive journalists that attend their conferences. Holo Lens had the potential as a holographic 3D tool for CAD designs; a collaborative exploration tool where people can be taken to remote sites like on planet Mars; a collaborative technical support tool where specialists can instruct their clients by virtually pointing out and conveying what needs to be done; and lastly as a potential game-changing game console when they demoed a version of 3D Minecraft.

Windows 10, has many Windows fans and other users somewhat excited, the same way Windows 7 got people excited in the wake of Windows Vista. Windows 10’s interconnected philosophy might just put Microsoft back on track and win back those lost souls disenfranchised by Windows 8.

Novak Djokovic Makes History Defeating Andy Murray at Australian Open

Luka Alario

-

February 1, 2015

0

Novak Djokovic Makes History Defeating Andy Murray at Australian Open

Despite a few problems with a scraped thumb and equilibrium issues, Novak Djokovic made history while also holding onto his number one world position after defeating Andy Murry. Many critics can agree that this was one of the better tennis finals in years with neither player running out of gas or letting up. You can see all the Djokovic vs Murray highlights below.

Djokovic, who became only the second man in history to win the title five or more times, was presented with the winner’s trophy by Roy Emerson, the only man ahead of him on the all-time list with six titles. There have been times in this tournament when the world No 1 has looked below his best, especially when he labored to beat Stan Wawrinka in the semi-finals, but like so many great champions he has the knack of finding a way to win even when he is struggling. In the first set, he took a slight fall scraping his thumb, and it looked like it could be end of his Australian Open run. Before he stepped off the court to have medical look at it, you could see his hand shaking badly, making it harder for him to get a tight grip on his racquet.

The Serbian superstar, ranked number one, came through 7-6 (7-5) 6-7 (4-7) 6-3 6-0 in three hours and 39 minutes.

It was a third win over British number one Murray in a Melbourne final and broughthim an eighth Grand Slam title.

Murray, 27, has now won two of the eight Grand Slam finals he has played in, having lost all four in Australia.

“I would like to congratulate Novak – it is a fantastic record and thoroughly deserved,” said Murray.

“It is probably my most consistent Grand Slam throughout my career but I just haven’t been able to win.”

Murray, who underwent back surgery near the end of 2013 and was playing in his first Grand Slam final since winning Wimbledon earlier that year, added: “I’m closer than I was a few months ago.

“I’ll try to come back next year and have a slightly different outcome in the final.”

The Scot, who will return to fourth in the world rankings on Monday, had chances in each of the first three sets of the final but ultimately could not cope with the Serb’s pinpoint returning and brilliant defence.

Djokovic, a week younger than his opponent, did look vulnerable at times, hurting his hand in a fall and appearing to struggle with an ankle problem early in the second set.

There were some concerned looks to coach Boris Becker in the stands and he required some energy-boosting fluids at a break down in the third set.

Murray was having his own problems, however, and just as at the US Open last September he could not keep pace physically with the Serb in the closing stages.

Djokovic had made a blistering start, racing into a 4-1 lead and going 20 minutes before he offered up a first unforced error.

It was to Murray’s credit that he twice hauled back breaks to force a tie-break, but a double-fault at 4-2 and a loose volley at 5-5 simply gave Djokovic too many chances.

The four-time champion clinched it when Murray netted a return, before suffering an awkward fall chasing a net cord early in the second that required treatment to his hand.

Murray moved into a 2-0 lead but saw the advantage wiped out when a rejuvenated Djokovic strung together 13 straight points.

Again, Murray fought back, a forehand into the corner making it 4-4, and three break points were saved at 5-5 on the way to a second tie-break.

This time the Scot would not relinquish an advantage, winning a gripping rally to lead 5-2 and converting his third set point.

When Djokovic netted a forehand to drop serve at the start of the third set, Murray appeared to have finally gained the initiative after two-and-a-half hours.

It proved to be his last moment to savour, however. As fatigue took a grip, his second serve slipped from being vulnerable to a liability.

Djokovic was now winning 75% of those points, and a frustrated Murray was screaming “how many times” as his advantage fell away.

The Serb saw off one final moment of danger at break point in game seven, gesturing to coach Becker to become more animated, but he required no assistance.

Murray was a rapidly fading force, double faulting to drop serve at 5-3, and winning just 11 points in a fourth set that disappeared in under half an hour.

Djokovic celebrated by throwing his racquet into the crowd, while a furious Murray smashed his in despair.

Robbie Coltrane Denies Drinking Caused Flu-like Symptoms

Curt Johnson

-

February 1, 2015

0

Robbie Coltrane Denies Drinking Caused Flu-like Symptoms

From the beginning the story was that, Robbie Coltrane, star of the “Harry Potter” films, was immediately rushed to the hospital after suffering flu-like symptoms on an airplane that steadily got worse. Enough said, that caused enough concern, but then TMZ jumped into the story adding that there was more to it what was being reported in the media. Naturally, this turned a rather tepid story into something more salacious causing the actor’s agent to make a statement denying any alcohol use before, during or after the uncomfortable long plane right from London to Orlando with a slight layover in Glasgow. As many of us who travel a lot know, this can be a very horrible experience.

“Harry Potter” star Robbie Coltrane has had to deny being intoxicated on a flight from London to Orlando after eyewitnesses claimed he was. The Daily Mail reported today that several people in a London airport lounge tweeted that the loveable actor who played Hogwarts gamekeeper Rubeus Hagrid was heavily under the influence of alcohol.

Coltrane’s agent has blasted these claims as untrue. She informed the media that his client was was hospitalised due to a mystery illness while travelling from London to the Florida city, with apparent ‘flu-like’ symptoms which became worse as time went on. She added that he was resting and recovering, and ‘would be fine’, while also stating that he nearly missed his connecting flight because his journey from Glasgow was blighted by the snow.

‘The prognosis is that he is going to be fine,’ she stated.

The actor was enroute to a “Harry Potter” convention at Universal Studios in Orlando with Michael Gambon, who played Dumbledore in the hit movies. Sadly, he had to cancel his appearance.

A spokesperson speaking on behalf of Warner Bros on Friday confirmed his no-show: “Robbie took ill last night and is getting the rest he needs to feel better. We are sorry he can’t be with us this weekend and look forward to seeing him up and about soon.”

There has been no word if any other passengers on the plane might have caught a flu or flu-like symptoms that Coltrane experienced.

It’s Official, Bruce Jenner’s Making A Switch

Shanka Cheryl

-

February 1, 2015

0

It’s Official, Bruce Jenner’s Making A Switch

For months, people have speculated, made jokes or innuendos about Bruce Jenner’s dramatically changing appearance. Much more than when he had the botched plastic surgery, but it’s been made official by People Magazine that the former Olympian has actually been transitioning over to be a woman. What’s really interesting is that all the gossip about the Jenner’s having their own reality show was partly true as the transitioning process has been filmed and will air when everyone is comfortable enough.

This is definitely a big transition for both family’s, and Kim Kardashian has been the most vocal about being supportive.

Bruce Jenner’s increasingly feminized appearance has been the subject of tabloid covers for months. And now confirms that the former Olympian will soon be living life as a woman.

“Bruce is transitioning to a woman,” reveals a source close to the family. “He is finally happy and his family is accepting of what he’s doing. He’s in such a great space. That’s why it’s the perfect time to do something like this.”

Another insider says the 65-year-old reality star is also filming a docu-series that will be shown this year.

“It will air when he is ready to be open about his transition,” the source tells People. “But he’s acting more and more confident and seems very happy.”

The insider also divulges that Jenner has slowly been transitioning in part so that his family would have time to adapt.

“He’s being very smart about and also respectful about his transition,” the insider says. “Instead of completely shocking everyone, his changes have been subtle, and his family has had the chance to slowly get used to his new looks and life.”

And his family, including children Cassandra, 34, Burt, 36 (with ex wife Chrystie Crownover ) and sons Brandon, 33 and Brody, 31 (with ex wife Linda Thompson), as well as daughters Kendall, 19 and Kylie, 17 (with Kris Jenner) are supportive of their father and want him to be happy.

But reportedly not everyone in the family is pleased.

“It is an intense thing,” admits a family source. “Of course not everyone is 100 percent on board. Different people have different reactions. But everybody loves him.”

Jenner has reportedly come out to those closest to him and he’s thrilled.

“He’s so happy and excited,” said. “He gets to lay down a huge bag of bricks. He’s been through a dark period and is coming out on the other side.”

Jenner’s reps did not respond for comment.

New England Patriots Halt Seattle Seahawks Dynasty Dreams

Shane Mclendon

-

February 1, 2015

0

New England Patriots Halt Seattle Seahawks Dynasty Dreams

Super Bowl 49 XLIX will no doubt be remembered for the bad play call at the end by Pete Carroll. The game was as good as a Super Bowl gets though so I hope that doesn’t get lost in the uproar over the decision not to run the ball from the half yard line. Pete Carroll did make a mistake with the pass call, but the result of the play he went with could have been much different. The players on the field make the real differences in these big games. That’s what happened in this Super Bowl as New England won this game. It was not handed to them by Seattle.

The easy thing to do when covering any game is to find blame on the losing side. That is so simple and I am guilty of doing it just like anyone else. But there is plenty of praise to spread around as well. Many writers and talking heads act as though football is played in this perfect vacuum where every offensive play call should happen just as it’s drawn up. They evidently forget that the defenses put in just as much practice time on defending such plays as the offense does in executing them. Credit should be given to the Patriots defense who came up big at the end. Let’s forget for a moment that Pete Carroll should have ran the ball instead of risking a pass. Malcolm Butler made a play that saved his team. He knew what was coming because of preparation on the practice field and in the film room. Plays are drawn up on paper. They come to life on a football field and anything can happen. The game was ripped from Seattle by a great play on Butler’s part. He deserves credit instead of us throwing blame all over Carroll, Lockette, or Wilson.

Who else deserves credit on the Patriots’ side? Tom Brady, despite being intercepted twice, was on point most of the game. He took what the defense gave him as he dinked his way down the field. The Super Bowl MVP was 37 of 50 with four touchdowns. Pretty good stats against the best defense in the NFL for the past two years. Again, the Seahawks are not to blame for Brady’s success. They made some great plays against the guy, but he made plays as well and just happened to come out on top.

I will also say that I was wrong about the Patriots receivers. Toward the first part of the season, I talked about Brady needing real help at receiver instead of the no names he had. Once the post season started, his crew of wideouts played at a championship level. Julian Edelman proved me totally wrong about him. He ended up with 9 catches for 109 yards, including the go ahead TD with 2:02 left. The Legion Of Boom did not have an answer for his quickness, especially when Jeremy Lane went out with an injury after his interception. Edelman racked up 26 catches in the playoffs, moving the chains for New England in wins over Baltimore, the Colts, and then Seattle.

The next few days will see plenty of thoughts about Pete Carroll’s meltdown at the end. We will see many conversations about the Seattle defense giving up 28 points, the most since week seven, in the biggest game of the year. Wilson will even get some blame for going along with the play call, as ridiculous as that sounds.

Folks just need to remember that both sides of the field have players and coaches. One offense’s mistake shouldn’t take away from the great plays made by the defense. If Wilson throws that pass a half second sooner or a foot to the right, the Seahawks are planning their parade. But the reality is that Malcolm Butler made the big play. His team won and ripped a Super Bowl Title away from Seattle and destiny itself. The impossible catch at the five yard line by Kearse had set the Patriots up for another Super bowl loss that closely resembled the Giants’ lucky catches. Destiny got stiff armed by a rookie out of West Alabama who will never be forgotten by New England fans.

Mary Cheney’s World Of Drag Queens vs. Blackface & RuPaul’s Video Response

The Curvy Girl Diva

-

January 31, 2015

0

Mary Cheney’s World Of Drag Queens vs. Blackface & RuPaul’s Video Response

Recently on her Facebook page, Mary Cheney, the openly gay daughter of former Vice President Dick Cheney, brought up something that she thought would make for good conversation. You know, what other dim witted “white supremacists” like her would consider decent intellectual fodder for sociological debate. This bitch asked: “Why is it socially acceptable, as a form of entertainment, for men to put on dresses, make-up and high heels and act out every offensive stereotype of women (bitchy, catty, dumb, slutty, etc.), but it is not socially acceptable for the same kind of entertainment purposes, for a white person to put on blackface and act out offensive stereotypes of African Americans?” Are you fucking kidding me right now Mary fucking Cheney? Check out below Rupaul’s video answer to this obviously very out of touch question which shows those people who claim racism is over in America a hard truth.

She further asked, “Shouldn’t both be OK or neither?” Well Ms. Cheney, the quick and right answer to that is no, just because one is socially acceptable as a means of entertainment, does not mean the other should be. And the fact that you would even ask that question shows not only how out of touch you are with today’s culture, it also begs the question of why does it even matter to you in the first place? Are you subliminally telling us that you want to walk around in black face to entertain your lesbian friends at your LGBT parties and it be okay?

mary cheneys world of drag vs blackface 2015

Allow me give to give your privileged ass a quick lesson on the plight of black people in America. This country has kept black people from sitting at the symbolic dinner table and having a slice of the proverbial pie since its inception. If black people aren’t slaves or marginalized then we are regarded with “benign neglect,” which is actually the term used by one of Nixon’s advisors as a way to deal with black Americans. This means that any and all issues that particularly affect our community is not particularly addressed. The first “don’t ask don’t tell” policy was engineered for the black community. Any legislative policy the government engineers to address black people is in actuality created to help minorities. Minorities can be disabled people, women, another ethnic group or the LGBT community.

What this has done is forced black people to feel like the only way to escape social disenfranchisement is to align with these groups in order to have our needs addressed. The thing that I really don’t get about her feministic charged rant, is how she has not been able to connect the fact that black people have aligned themselves with the feminist’s, agenda (and other agendas) in order to be able to their issues recognized. The truth is that Feminists and lesbians have used the civil rights model as a blueprint and the black presence to further their agenda.

Ms. Cheney, how dare you question whether it is okay for white folks to parade around as black folks. Most men who dress in drag do so because they like it and because they believe in it. If you want to wear black face, you are saying to me and the rest of us that you are doing it because you believe in the meaning of that horrible practice. Oh, you don’t know the meaning, well why the hell are you talking about it anyway?

If you did the research on its history, your ass would not even be asking this question. But because you neglected to Google it, Mary Cheney here is the answer to your question. First gay people have not nor will they ever suffer or sacrifice as much as black people in this country. Quote me on that.

rupaul responds to mary cheney drag vs blackface 2015

Next, drag, which emerged around the turn of the 20^th century, has evolved to an art of expression. It is practiced all over the world from Italy to Brazil. While the feminine characteristics portrayed by drag queens can be exaggerated, they are considered to be paying homage to role models of their youth or women they admire. Furthermore drag kings exist, so there are actually women who dress as men as well. Drag was never intended to mock or exploit women.

The ugly history of blackface on the other hand (which is America’s oldest form of entertainment) was created to exploit, mock and degrade black people. When Al Jolson ran his “love my mammy” routines, he wasn’t paying homage. He was laughing with his white audience at black people. The exaggerated characteristics of black face displayed a discriminated and marginalized people through a distorted lens that black people have to contend with to this very day. With blackface comes painful memories of a time when black people weren’t even considered human beings.

So while Ms. Chaney’s thinly veiled attempt to roll back the hands of time and place black people in a position where white people laughed at us at our expense, we can all see through the nonsense.

And with the fact that the most recent group to emerge as the poster children for equal rights is the gay community, why oh why is Chaney even bringing this subject up? You see the truth is that the black community’s battle in America has been the black community’s battle to fight alone. While the gay community has benefitted from comparing its struggle to that of civil rights movement and have obtained the leadership of black public figures to get same sex marriage laws passed, their agenda is not intended to benefit black people in any form or fashion.

Cheney may feel that because she is a woman and gay, her experience gives her the right to question certain social constructs in America. But her naïve and racist observations should help black people realize that a) gay people can be racists too and there are racists among them; b) any agenda that addresses the needs of black people should be addressed and dealt with by black people alone. These other “minority” groups are not going to put money on the table or their behinds on the line when it matters and c) other groups need fight their own battles and focus on what is impacting them in particular.

Mary Cheney needs to think before she speaks and get an understanding of the real people in the real world that has to deal with real jackasses like her.

mary cheney facebook comments on drag blackface — Mary Cheney’s full comment on Facebook.

When does the fuckery end?

Editor’s Note: Mary Cheney wrote this on her private facebook page this past Thursday, January 29, 2015. Some of Cheney’s posts appear to only be visible to those who are in her Facebook network. CNN obtained this copy.

Bobbi Kristina Brown Found Unconscious Nearing Three Year Anniversary Of Whitney Houston’s Death

The Curvy Girl Diva

-

January 31, 2015

1

Bobbi Kristina Brown Found Unconscious Nearing Three Year Anniversary Of Whitney Houston’s Death

Reports have come in today that Bobbi Kristina Brown, daughter of the late Whitney Houston, was found unresponsive in a bathtub in her Roswell, GA home earlier today. She is also the daughter of R&B singer Bobby Brown.

Her husband Nick Gordon and a friend found her and immediately started CPR. They called 911 and continued the CPR until help arrived. Rescue personnel reached the home at 10:25 and performed “life-saving measures” on Brown, who is only 21 years old, and was able to revive her. She was taken to North Fulton Hospital.

This is a very sad situation for a number of reasons. We all know and love Whitney Houston. She is a staple of so many of our childhoods and just lives period. Her voice was a shining star in this world but was brought down too soon due to an addition to drugs that plagued her most of her adult life. Whitney died on February 11, 2012 and was found in the bathtub of a hotel room in Los Angeles by Ray J on the eve of the Grammys.

People have speculated as to the reasons for her early demise and a lot of her family and friends blame ex-husband Bobby Brown for her trouble. But with the recent airing of Lifetime’s unauthorized biopic, Whitney, it paints a totally different story. One that claims Whitney was the one who got Bobby hooked on crack. How true that is, I don’t know, but it was interesting nonetheless the way they framed it.

And it is that movie that could have added to the stress and pain Bobbi Kristina feels. The loss of her mother, the estrangement of her father, the weight of the whole world is a lot to deal with. Rumor has it too that she was wanted to play the part of Whitney in the movie but executive producer and director Angela Bassett turned her down. There has also been a lot of drama with her family because they did not approve of the movie and have spoken out against it without apology. Her aunt and the executor of Whitney’s estate, Pat Houston, released a statement blasting the movie and claimed that she, Cissy Houston (Whitney’s mother) nor Bobbi Kristina where consulted.

That is interesting to me because why would a movie be made without talking to any of the family? They used her songs in the movie, although they were sung by Deborah Cox who sang the hell out of every one of them. Whether or not it is true is also up for debate I suppose. All I know is that it was a lot better than that wack ass, sorry ass, dumb ass Aaliyah movie Wendy Williams was behind.

The incident with Bobbie Kristina is still under investigation and it comes less than two weeks before the three year marking of Whitney’s departure. The young Brown has not been silent about how her sorrow with the anniversary of her mother’s death approaching. On January 26^th, she posted on Twitter:

Littlelady&yourgrowing young man @nickdgordon miss you mommy ..:') SOmuch.. loving you more every sec. #Anniversary! pic.twitter.com/3NBj8gwAi0

— Bobbi Kristina H.G. (@REALbkBrown) January 26, 2015

Bobbie Kristina has had her own bouts with drugs as well and this was before she was even old enough to drink. Last July, pictures surfaced of her doing drugs which she later denied. The caption along with it was heartfelt to say the least.

“…Do you know what I feel? I feel strange that I can’t feel any pain anymore…”

She claimed that the picture was not recent, but the fact that it was taken, posted and captioned the way it was speaks volumes to her mental and emotional state at the time and even now.

The whole situation is just heartbreaking because when you look at her, you can see that she is not in a good place. You can see that she needs help and that she misses her mom. Bobbi Kristina is crying out and I don’t doubt that there are people around her to give her the guidance she needs. But she is probably so hurt and so numb that nothing anyone says to her will help her because she is not in a place to receive it. What she needs more than anything right now is her mother and that is the one person that cannot help her.

I am sure the whole world breathed a sigh of relief when it was reported that she is breathing again. To think that she almost suffered the same fate as her mother, dying in a bathtub, is disheartening to say the least. She is a beautiful girl how can do so much for her life and the world if she can only get over the hurt of losing her mother and whatever else she is facing.

In her short years on this earth, she has experienced more than people double her age. And it is that darkness, that pain, that turmoil that has led her to the place she is today. Was she really trying to take her life? We will not know unless or until she tells us.

I wish her the best and I want to see her win. We all want to see her win. The entire globe is rooting for her. I pray that she finds the healing she so desperately needs… the healing her mother so desperately wants for her.

Serena Williams Closes Out Australian Open: Djokovic vs Murray Now

Shane Lambert

-

January 31, 2015

0

Serena Williams Closes Out Australian Open: Djokovic vs Murray Now

With the conclusion of the women’s draw, Serena Williams claimed her sixth title down-under, defeating Maria Sharapova in the final 6-3, 7-6. The women’s championship match came after two fairly uncompetitive semifinals that saw Williams defeat Madison Keys and Sharapova defeat Ekaterina Makarova.

The men’s semifinals were also played earlier this week. In the first semifinal, Andy Murray defeated Tomas Berdych in four sets. That result advanced Murray to his fourth Australian Open final, having lost all three of his previous efforts. For Berdych, semifinal Grand Slam woes continue as the Czech has not yet duplicated the success he had at Wimbledon 2010.

Murray will now face a familiar foe in the Aussie final as Novak Djokovic defeated defending champion Stan Wawrinka in five sets on Friday from Melbourne Park. For the Swiss No. 2 a ranking slide is now in short order as he will lose nearly 1300 ranking points on Friday. For Djokovic, already a four-time champion at the Australian Open, the Serb redeems a tough loss from last season and he will be looking for his fifth title down-under and eighth Grand Slam title overall.

Ahead of the Aussie final, it is Djokovic that is considered the favourite. Bet365, for example, have the World No. 1 priced at -225 (4/9) to win straight up while Murray is priced at +175 (7/4) with the same firm. Murray has claimed that “It would be a big upset if (he) wins,” perhaps showing that he is not entering the match with a lot of confidence. Furthermore the comment also suggests that the odds on Murray are too short as a player winning as a +175 betting underdog, while technically an upset, is not that big of one.

Perhaps ominously for Murray fans, the current World No. 6 did lose all four of his matches against Djokovic in 2014. In those matches, all of which were played on the hard court surface, the Scot only managed to take down one individual set. Overall, Djokovic is a solid 15-8 against Murray, having defeated the Scot in numerous majors in the past.

Murray fans will no doubt ground some optimism in the fact that the head-to-heads between he and Djokovic have not been entirely one-sided by any stretch. While the Serb holds the edge straight up, Murray has twice defeated Djokovic in the final of a major. Most recently, Murray won Wimbledon 2013 through Djokovic in the final. Furthermore, Murray also claimed his maiden Slam at Djokovic’s expense, defeating the Serb on the hard courts of the 2012 US Open.

Based on all his experience, Murray has suggested that he may have to push himself to the max to defeat Djokovic on Sunday.

“I know it’s going to be extremely difficult to win the match tomorrow,” Murray claimed on Saturday from Melbourne Park. “I know if I want to win, it will probably be very, very tough and challenging physically. So I need to prepare myself mentally for that.”

“He has a fantastic record here,” Murray also said of the current World No. 1. “He obviously loves the court and the conditions.”

Murray also clearly loves the court and the conditions too. Few will forget the post-final ceremonies at the 2010 Australian Open when a choked-up Murray, fresh off of a loss to Roger Federer, claimed that he hoped to win in Melbourne Park someday. But few will also forget how Murray charged through the 2011, 2012, and 2013 Australian Open draws only to bump into Djokovic in either the semifinals or the final. Djokovic took each of those matches down, with only their 2012 semifinal being competitive.

The men’s final for the 2015 Australian Open is scheduled for a start time of 7:30pm on Sunday night from Melbourne. For those in North America that may feel like a Saturday night start time as the match will begin at 3:30am ET and 12:30am PT.

It’s hard to predict Murray winning since he isn’t speaking about himself optimistically. Perhaps Murray would best be regarded as a 5 to 1 underdog instead of the 7 to 4 underdog that the sportsbooks are approximating him at.

What NFL Could Learn From Our Best College Football Coaches

Rick Bouch

-

January 31, 2015

0

What NFL Could Learn From Our Best College Football Coaches

This current era of college football is blessed with some of the best head coaches in the sport’s history. While names like Rockne, Hayes, and Schembechler will forever command the respect of the game, there are current coaches who have won multiple national titles, who have introduced innovations that have changed the game, and who have mentored outstanding young men. The National Football League could learn a lot from these great men.

Nick Saban, Alabama

All Saban has done in his tenure at Alabama has become the Godfather of college coaches. He is 86-17 in his eight seasons in Tuscaloosa. The Crimson Tide has won three national championships and seems to be in the running every year. Minus Saban’s first season in 2007, ‘Bama has won 10 or more games every year since 2008. Saban has produced 37 NFL draft picks and is the game’s highest paid coach. He’s worth every penny. Saban brings an attention to detail and a defense that just stymies offenses. His coaching travels have actually taken him to the NFL – he was the Miami Dolphins head coach in 2005 and 2006. NFL coaches repeatedly study what Saban does with the Tide defense and attempt to adapt it to the pro game.

Urban Meyer, Ohio State

The prodigal son of the state of Ohio returned to coaching in his home state at the state’s most well-known institution and promptly won a national championship in year three. Meyer rose quickly through the head coaching ranks landing at Florida in the early 2000s where he would win two national titles and produce a Heisman Trophy winner in Tim Tebow. His career head coaching record stands at 142-26, which includes his three years at Ohio State where Meyer is 38-3. Known for his innovations in the spread offense, Meyer is known for molding his offense to fit his players. When he lost two quarterbacks this season, he did not fret. He brought in a third, Cardale Jones, and worked the offense to his strengths. It’s something NFL coaches should think about as their rosters change every year.

Bob Stoops, Oklahoma

In considering the current college coaching greats, Stoops often gets overlooked. Along with Virginia Tech’s Frank Beamer and Iowa’s Kirk Ferentz, Stoops is one of the longest tenured FBS coaches in the nation. He has been at Oklahoma for 16 seasons which says something about his performance in this day and age of “what have you done for me lately.” Stoops has won at least 10 games in 12 of those 16 seasons including a perfect 13-0 record in 2000 when the Sooner won the national championship. He has a career record of 168-44, more wins than any other Oklahoma coach, and claims eight Big 12 championships. Stoops is one of the best defensive minds in the game and is a proven winner. He brought the Sooners program back to national prominence quickly, something the new first-year head coaches in the NFL will need to do to keep their jobs.

Steve Spurrier, South Carolina

The Ole Ball Coach has a list of accomplishments a mile long. He was a phenomenal college player – he won the Heisman Trophy in 1966 – and has developed into one of the all-time coaching greats. His college career coaching record of 226-85-2 includes stints at Duke, Florida, and his current stop, South Carolina. He won at each school turning around programs that had seen better days. In 1996, Spurrier led Florida to a 12-1 record and a national championship. He took the job at South Carolina in 2005 and is now the winningest coach in school history. Spurrier has done it by being demanding and holding players accountable. He also has a knack for devising offensive schemes that score a lot of points. These are all valuable traits that any successful NFL coach should have.

Bill Snyder, Kansas State

Snyder is already in the College Football Hall of Fame and the field at Kansas State was named in his honor. He is one of the few major college coaches to have two non-consecutive tenures at the same school. Snyder came to KSU back in 1988 and took over one of the worst football programs in the history of the game. Prior to Snyder’s arrival, the school had won just 37 percent of its games in 93 years of play. While Snyder and Wildcats struggled initially, the veteran coach turned Kansas State into a consistent winner. From 1997 to 2000, the Wildcats won 44 games, 11 each season, and finished in first place in the Big 12 North Division three of the four years. When he retired after the 2005 season, the program began to struggle again. Snyder returned to Manhattan in 2009 to once again re-right the program. KSU is a consistent winner in the Big 12 thanks to Snyder, who brought with him a work ethic unmatched in the business. NFL coaches that want to be successful can take a page from Snyder’s book on how to get things done…and do them well.

There are numerous other college football coaches who possess some of the same great qualities as these five. The NFL comes calling to the college ranks every so often as it did when the Philadelphia Eagles hired Chip Kelly from Oregon. There is much to be learned from successful college coaches and their peers in the pro ranks will continue to turn to them when needed.

Most Amazing Moments In Super Bowl History 2015

Chris Maurice

-

January 31, 2015

0

Most Amazing Moments In Super Bowl History 2015

With Super Bowl XLIX coming up this Sunday, now is a good time to look back on all the best moments that the Super Bowl has had to offer over its 48 year history. So in preparation for Super Bowl XLIX, here’s a list of the top 10 most memorable moments in Super Bowl history:

10. The “Broken Play”—Super Bowl XXV: The New York Giants weren’t exactly the favorites heading into the Big Game against the Buffalo Bills, but with lots of running and patient football they were able to pull off the 20-19 upset over Buffalo. The best moment from this game was Wide Receiver Mark Ingram’s 3^rd and 13 conversion which included 5 broken tackles to set up the game-winning touchdown.

9. Marcus Allen—Super Bowl XVIII: The defending Super Bowl Champion Washington Redskins were supposed to run away with this Super Bowl, but instead Oakland Raiders running back Marcus Allen ran all over them. Allen burned the defending champs for 191 rushing yards, including a beautiful 74 yard touchdown run. The Raiders won 35-9.

8. Lynn Swann—Super Bowl X: The Pittsburgh Steelers saw many great performances during their four Super Bowls in the 70s, but Lynn Swann’s 161 yards against the Dallas Cowboys might just be the best. Swann only made four receptions, but that was enough to propel the Steelers to a 21-17 victory and to earn him Super Bowl MVP honors.

7. Adam Vinatieri, aka Mr. Clutch—Super Bowls XXXVI & XXXVIII: Adam Vinatieri is without a doubt one of the best field goal kickers of all time. The most impressive of his achievements by far are his two game-winning field goals in the Super Bowl. Vinatieri sealed a New England Patriots win over the St. Louis Rams (20-17) and the Carolina Panthers (32-29) in Super Bowls XXXVI and XXXVIII respectively.

6. Hakeem Nicks Sideline Catch—Super Bowl XLVI: New York Giants wide receivers make this list twice. Hakeem Nicks reeled in an amazing catch along the sideline late in the fourth quarter which led to the Giants second Super Bowl victory over the New England Patriots in five years. This wasn’t Nicks’s only spectacular catch of the game either, he certainly gave fans their money’s worth.

5. Joe Montana to John Taylor—Super Bowl XXIII: The Cincinnati Bengals took the lead with about three minutes left, and they could already feel the Lombardi Trophy. Unfortunately for the Bengals, Joe Montana had other plans. Montana led the San Francisco 49ers on a beautiful 92 yard drive with a touchdown to John Taylor clinching the victory with 35 seconds left.

4. Tracy Porter’s Game-Sealing Pick Six—Super Bowl XLIV: It was a miracle that the New Orleans Saints could even make a Super Bowl, never mind beat the best quarterback of all time in Peyton Manning and his Indianapolis Colts. Well the Colts were driving down the field in an attempt to tie the game, Tracy Porter jumped in front of Reggie Wayne and brought the ball back 74 yards to seal the victory.

3. Santonio Holmes End Zone Snag: One of the best catches in Super Bowl history came with only 35 seconds left in the game. After a holding penalty in the end zone game the Arizona Cardinals 2 points and the ball, Kurt Warner and Larry Fitzgerald lead the team to a 23-20 lead over the Pittsburgh Steelers. Unfortunately for the Cardinals, the Steelers didn’t give up. A perfect pass from Ben Roethlisberger to Santonio Holmes in the back of the end zone sealed the game for the Steelers.

2. The Longest Yard—Super Bowl XXXIV: Talk about drama. The St. Louis Rams took a 23-16 lead over the Tennessee Titans. Titans quarterback Steve McNair brought the Titans from their own 12 yard line all the way to the Rams 10 with six seconds left. On the last play of the game, Kevin Dyson was tackled by Rams linebacker Mike Jones one yard shy of the end zone.

1. David Tyree’s Miracle Helmet Catch—Super Bowl XLII: This is, in my opinion, the greatest play in NFL history. Eli Manning avoided three sacks, somehow escaped the New England Patriots defensive line’s grasp on his jersey, scrambled away, and launched one down the field for David Tyree who was tightly covered by Rodney Harrison. Tyree pinned the ball against his helmet for a miracle 32 yard completion. The New York Giants went on to win 17-14, handing the 18-0 Patriots their first and only loss of the season.

Roger Goodell’s ‘State of the NFL’ Address Recap: Nothing Will Change

Shane Mclendon

-

January 31, 2015

0

Roger Goodell’s ‘State of the NFL’ Address Recap: Nothing Will Change

Roger Goodell held his annual State Of The NFL Address Friday. He opened up with the usual positive notes about the season and the upcoming Super Bowl this Sunday. Goodell did mention the challenges of the 2014 season and stated that the NFL is making real progress on the issues that embarrassed the league this past year. You can check out his full Q&A below too.

Player safety is still a huge issue in the NFL, even though that may have been overshadowed this year with domestic violence and now Deflategate popping up. Commissioner Goodell made several points about how player safety has improved with the new rules in place. He reported that concussions have decreased again this past year making it a three year trend in the right direction. The lower number of defenseless player hits made concussions go down and players are going for head shots less and less. This is good news for the league obviously and any fan should be able to appreciate that fact even though we hate to see too many flags for hits that used to be legal. A chief medical officer position has been created as well according to the commish. I don’t know the salary of this person, but it will be well worth getting the right person to direct all the medical issues going forward.

A few mentions of new technology were made during the address. Much of the old technology will finally get upgraded next season I believe. The Pro Bowl, a game that no one cares about, was a good place to try out some tablets on the field for officials. The dark ages of a hooded on field screen are about over.

Plans are in the works to have a regular season game streamed online as soon as possible. That would cater to folks all over the world and to those who have cut the cable cord in the USA.

Some tweaks to the extra point system could come next year also. The kicks are not an automatic, but the kickers have become so good that the challenge needs to be taken up a notch.

Goodell would have liked to skip over any deflated football talk but he mentioned the independent investigation that is ongoing. Poor Roger just can’t get away from all these controversies. It’s a good thing he gets paid $40 million a year. That should relieve some of the stress.

After Goodell’s opening statements he took on questions from reporters. Here are some of the highlights of those that caught my attention.

Goodell was asked how he felt about Robert Kraft calling for an apology from the league once the investigation into DeflateGate finds no guilt with Brady or Belichick. The commissioner basically said it was his job to find the truth and do so fairly. The “fairly” part was a wink to Kraft in my opinion, silently saying that his old buddy from new England need not worry about the findings of the investigation.

Every single year the question of a franchise in Los Angeles is brought up. Goodell has to be more tired of hearing it than I am. Apparently no one really cares or there would already be a team in L.A. The Rams are one possible team that could end up there though. I will believe it when I see a moving truck start unloading equipment at a new stadium.

Marshawn Lynch‘s name sure pops up a lot for a guy who doesn’t say much. Goodell said it was each players’ obligation to engage with the media. Lynch was no exception according to Boss Rog. Goodell said that fans are curious about the players and want to hear them speak. Lynch has made people even more curious by his lack of talk…oh and the way he balls on the field. The latter is more important to me.

Goodell was a bit irritated by the question about the integrity of the Patriots’ deflated ball investigation. Robert Kraft is one of Goodell’s bosses so how can the commissioner be trusted to do a proper investigation, no matter who is hired to do the legwork. Goodell’s answer was a standard one, “Ted Wells’ (DeflateGate investigator) integrity is impeccable.” I don’t know how the NFL can look truthful in these investigations, but just hiring people they simply say are “honest” is not it.

Player relations was a topic that has haunted Goodell and he had to address it once again. He has run roughshod over the player union ever since he came into power. The perception is that he is all about the money and mainly cares about player safety because of the legal costs.

One reporter asked the most unexciting question of the whole session when he asked the commissioner, “How did he play 60 today,” referring to the NFL’s quest to get kids more active. I only mention it because I think this program is a great one since we are the fattest nation in the world and lazy kids make for obese adults. Goodell made sure he mentioned how long he was on the elliptical and how early he got to the gym. Nice, Roger.

The question of ignorance not being an excuse with the Saints and BountyGate came up about the Patriots’ deflated balls. This ignorance question has been brought up before and Goodell has had time to twist his answer, saying that different cases can’t be compared to each other. Nice side step.

The most interesting question was this: “Has the NFL ever tested the air pressure of footballs in the middle of the game, and how important is that as a frame of reference in the Patriots’ investigation?” Goodell played dumb, asking for clarification to a pretty straightforward question. He then said he didn’t know the answer to that! How that is possible I have no idea. The biggest scandal of the year relating to on field actions, and this basic question was never asked by Goodell of his underlings. He has to know the answer, but he is getting better at giving non answers after the Ray Rice fiasco.

The commissioner was asked about Richard Sherman’s comments on Goodell having close personal relationships with specific owners like Robert Kraft. He said he has to be part of events like the AFC Championship party at Kraft’s home as that is part of his role. This is true, but it won’t stop players like Sherman and fans from questioning his integrity. There is corruption in all big corporations and the good ole boy network exists at every turn. The NFL is no different and the higher up you go, the more corruption you usually find.

The commish wrapped up the address by thanking all involved in Arizona for making the Super Bowl event possible. He likely headed directly for the hotel gym to work off stress from the Q & A session on that elliptical.

Premier League Soccer Teams Needing Much Improvement

Luka Alario

-

January 31, 2015

0

Premier League Soccer Teams Needing Much Improvement

With 16 games to go, Chelsea, quite deservedly, are at the helm of the English Premier League table. But the reigning champions, Manchester City haven’t been as impressive. Pellegrini’s men are currently five points behind the league leaders and they’ll have to do better if they want to retain their title.

LVG’s Manchester United have had a good run of games in the first half of the season, but since the turn of the new year they have struggled in quite a few matches. The Dutchman’s philosophy and formation have been challenged by the pundits and even some fans. The 3-5-2 isn’t much famous with the Old Trafford faithful. But the Red Devils need to bounce back as Ronald Koeman’s Southampton are poised to finish in the top four. Also, the Gunners haven’t missed the Champions League spot in decades and they are on the way up with Walcott, Ozil and other players back in the squad. If the 20-time English champions don’t finish in top four it will be a huge blow as they have invested over 150 million pounds since the departure of their legendary manager, Sir Alex Ferguson.

Liverpool were the runners-up last season and at present they are eighth in the league, 17 points behind the league leaders. With Luis Suarez moving to Barcelona, it has been quite a fall for the Merseyside giants. Brendan Rodgers alike Van Gaal spent loads of cash in the summer and there have been a lot of new names at Anfield this season. The results weren’t as satisfying in the first half of the season, yet they seem to gel now. Nothing other than a top four finish would be a failure for them this season.

Liverpool’s fiercest city rivals, Everton have been awful in the Premier League. Roberto Martinez’s side is at the twelfth spot with 23 points. With nine losses and eight draws, the Toffees need to step up their game and at least finish in the top half the table. Surprisingly, the team which finished fifth last season, is just four points away from the relegation zone.

Arsenal are currently fifth in the league, trailing by a point to Manchester United. Arsene Wenger’s men have won only half of their fixtures in the league. Their tally of five losses and six draws point to a total of 27 points dropped. Last season, they lost 35 points over the whole season, so they will have to do much better in the upcoming games, especially against the top sides.

West Ham are the most improved team this season. They finished 13^th in the last campaign, but Sam Allardyce’s men look all set to challenge for the spot in the European competitions. The Saints also deserve more words of appreciation, as the St. Mary’s based club lost a lot of first team players to the big fishes, but they have done better than ever under the new coach.

Hull City, QPR and Leicester City are in the relegation zone, with Burnley and Sunderland not far away. Even Aston Villa and West Brom need to stay alert and win more games or the situation could go worse.

The biggest disappointment this season after 22 games will have to be Everton. The biggest surprise is the Southampton side which is at the third spot and is defeating the likes of Manchester United to stay there.

8 Things in Windows 10 Windows 8 Haters Will Like

Novak Djokovic Makes History Defeating Andy Murray at Australian Open

Robbie Coltrane Denies Drinking Caused Flu-like Symptoms

It’s Official, Bruce Jenner’s Making A Switch

New England Patriots Halt Seattle Seahawks Dynasty Dreams

Mary Cheney’s World Of Drag Queens vs. Blackface & RuPaul’s Video Response

Bobbi Kristina Brown Found Unconscious Nearing Three Year Anniversary Of Whitney Houston’s Death

Serena Williams Closes Out Australian Open: Djokovic vs Murray Now

What NFL Could Learn From Our Best College Football Coaches

Most Amazing Moments In Super Bowl History 2015

Roger Goodell’s ‘State of the NFL’ Address Recap: Nothing Will Change

Premier League Soccer Teams Needing Much Improvement

EDITOR PICKS

How Rod Serling Used ‘The Twilight Zone’ For His Own Mental Health

Understanding Grief and Loss: Dealing and Healing

6 Healthy Skin Tips for the Whole Family

POPULAR POSTS

‘The Boys’ Gets It Right – Eric Kripke on Mirroring Reality, Soldier Boy and ‘Supernatural’ Reunions

‘The Boys’ Season 4 Wraps Up With a Assassination Run Bang!

‘The Boys’ 4.07 Insider Penultimate Episode Review

POPULAR CATEGORY

ABOUT US