Hot News: History's 'Vikings' Carves Out 3.6 Million Viewers In Second Season Debut

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><img height="300" src="http://ift.tt/1dJW3nr" width="100%"/><br/><br />History's Vikings returned for its second season at 10 PM last night, capturing 3.6 million viewers - including 1.7 million adults 18-49, of whom 1.1 million were guys, and 1.8 million adults 25-54, of whom 1.2 million were men. Vikings' first season launch had clocked a whopping 6.2 million viewers - 2.5 million adults 18-49 and 2.7 million adults 25-54 - but, as History points out, the lead-in for its series launch last year was rating behemoth The Bible. Armed with that Mark Burnett-produced miniseries as its lead-in, Vikings averaged 4.3 million total viewers, with 2 million 25-54 and 1.8 million 18-49 in its first season - a marauding success for History, with the historical drama emerging as the No. 1 new cable series of the year and scoring three Emmy noms.<br/><br />History would draw your attention to the final four episodes of that first season - those being the episodes that ran without The Bible boost, including the season finale that attracted 3.6 million viewers. History notes that last night's debut was up 3% in total viewers, 10% in men 25-54 and 18-49, and 6% in adults 18-49 compared to the average for those episodes. Vikings remains one of cable's top programs overall, behind The Walking Dead and American Horror Story: Coven among all cable dramas this year, according to Nielsen.<br/><br />Post By http://ift.tt/OKLfjK</div>

Hot News: History's 'Vikings' Carves Out 3.6 Million Viewers In Second Season Debut

History's Vikings returned for its second season at 10 PM last night, capturing 3.6 million viewers - including 1.7 million adults 18-49...

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Hot News: Wagstaffe's Weather

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><img height="300" src="http://ift.tt/1eJDXRY" width="100%"/><br/><br />CBC meteorologist Johanna Wagstaffe says big changes are on the way for Vancouver's weather, as we say goodbye to spring-like conditions.<br/><br />A ridge of high pressure that has been responsible for sunshine and mild temperatures is weakening today, and that's allowing easterly winds to bring in cold and dry air from the Interior.<br/><br />An Arctic front has spread westward across much of B.C. today, and the South Coast will get a taste of that air mass over the next couple days.<br/><br />Temperatures tonight for Vancouver will drop down to sub-zero values along with very gusty easterly winds for the valley.<br/><br />Because the air will be so dry to start, it's likely we may see some morning sun before afternoon cloud and evening light snow kick in.<br/><br />A low-pressure system developing off the coast of Vancouver Island tomorrow may add the needed moisture to the cold air for this to be a weekend snow event.<br/><br />There is still a lot of uncertainty on the timing and details of the snow event that is looking more likely to occur during the day, Saturday before changing over to rain, Monday.<br/><br />Environment Canada has issued a special weather statement for the wintry weather this weekend. Once again, elevation and location will play a huge role in who gets what, but it will be a very interesting weekend to say the least.<br/><br />Stay tuned for the latest and check back with Environment Canada for any weather warning updates.<br/><br />Watch Johanna's video outlook in the player above, and catch her full forecast on CBC News Vancouver at 5 and 6.<br/><br />Post By http://ift.tt/1bU2E3k</div>

Hot News: Wagstaffe's Weather

CBC meteorologist Johanna Wagstaffe says big changes are on the way for Vancouver's weather, as we say goodbye to spring-like conditions...

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Hot News: Samsung Galaxy S5 to launch on Boost Mobile, Virgin Mobile in Q2

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><img height="300" src="http://ift.tt/1eHjZr5" width="100%"/><br/><br />Do you want a social network that can truly improve your real-life? PhoneDog Media is providing a sneak peek to iM5 - the 'Do It' Social Network. See the video<br/><br />When Samsung announced the Galaxy S5 last week, it confirmed that the new flagship Android smartphone will be launching on AT&T, MetroPCS, Sprint, T-Mobile, U.S. Cellular and Verizon in the U.S. Those six carriers cover quite a few of the wireless subscribers in the States, but there are still some larger operators missing from that list. I've got some good news related to the Galaxy S5's availability today, though, as it's been confirmed that two more U.S. providers will be stocking the Galaxy S5 on their shelves.<br/><br />Sprint has reached out to us to confirm that both Boost Mobile and Virgin Mobile will offer the Samsung Galaxy S5. Both MVNOs will begin selling the S5 in the second quarter, and Sprint also revealed the device will support its Sprint Spark LTE service.<br/><br />There's no word yet on how much the Samsung Galaxy S5 will cost when it arrives on Boost and Virgin's shelves. The fact that they're both prepaid, no-contact operators means that the S5 will likely carry a price tag of several hundred dollars. Even so, it's great to see Samsung's next flagship hitting both Boost and Virgin, especially since their Q2 launches means that there won't be a months-long wait between the S5's initial launch and its arrival on these Sprint MVNOs.<br/><br />Post By http://ift.tt/1fwIiOA</div>

Hot News: Samsung Galaxy S5 to launch on Boost Mobile, Virgin Mobile in Q2

Do you want a social network that can truly improve your real-life? PhoneDog Media is providing a sneak peek to iM5 - the 'Do It' So...

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Hot News: Oscars 2014: Take our Best Picture poll

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><img height="300" src="http://ift.tt/1pDXPPA" width="100%"/><br/><br /><br/><br />The Academy Awards will be presented, finally, on Sunday, March 2, with one of the tightest Best Picture races in recent memory.<br/><br />Check out these CBS News interviews and features about the nine nominated films, and then vote in our poll below on which movie you think should take the Oscar for Best Picture of the Year. 'American Hustle' (Columbia Pictures)<br/><br />Director by David O. Russell ('Three Kings,' 'The Fighter,' 'Silver Linings Playbook') cultivates a disequilibrium that liberates actors, and captures the messy collision of self-interests at the heart of this tragic-comedy we call American life, said 'Sunday Morning' film critic David Edelstein.<br/><br />Based on the infamous Abscam sting operation, 'American Hustle' stars Christian Bale as Irving Rosenfeld, a fictionalized version of real-life con man Mel Weinberg. Rosenfeld gets hired by the FBI to help with one of their cases and partners up with agent Richie DiMaso, played by Bradley Cooper. Jeremy Renner, Amy Adams and Jennifer Lawrence also star.<br/><br />Many of the cast members have previously worked with Russell. At the film's New York red carpet premiere, Bale (who won an Oscar for Best Supporting Actor for 'The Fighter') told CBSNews.com's Ken Lombardi that he leapt at the chance to work with Russell again.<br/><br />'I like the turmoil. I like the spontaneity. I like the very creative chaos that is generated on all of David's sets,' he said. 'Captain Phillips' (Columbia Pictures)<br/><br />In April 2009, an American ship captain was held at gunpoint by four Somali pirates inside a lifeboat. The U.S. Navy was on the scene, but Richard Phillips did not see how they could possibly rescue him.<br/><br />'I did not foresee a good ending,' Phillips told CBS News national security correspondent David Martin, 'because I saw the determination that the pirates had, and they weren't going to give me up. I was hoping for a rescue, but I thought the chances were slim-to-none that that would be successful.'<br/><br />Paul Greengrass, director of the film 'Captain Phillips,' sees Phillips as the quintessential Everyman: 'An ordinary man in an extraordinary situation, kidnapped on the high seas . . . Can the Navy get there in time? What's he going to do in a confined space with four men who are intent on taking him back [to Somalia], ransoming him to the highest bidder?<br/><br />Tom Hanks, as the captain of a giant container ship, is up against a pirate captain played by Barkhad Abdi, an unknown Somali-American with no real acting experience. It's the haves of the global economy versus the have-nots.<br/><br />'At the heart of this film is Tom Hanks coming face-to-face with a captain from another side of the world, and that trial of strength is really what the film's all about,' said Greengrass. Dallas Buyers Club (Focus Features)<br/><br />'Dallas Buyers Club' is based on the life of Ron Woodroof, a homophobic cowboy-turned-crusader after he finds out he's HIV positive.<br/><br />How many times was the film turned down? 'Hundred and thirty-seven times,' McConaughey told 'Sunday Morning' correspondent Lee Cowan. 'That was the final tally.'<br/><br />Why was it such a hard picture to get made? 'You read that one liner -- period piece, AIDS, drama with a homophobic hero -- those ingredients don't make anyone go, Oh I'm gonna really hear the change in my pocket. I'm gonna really be making money on that!' McConaughey laughed.<br/><br />Jared Leto plays Rayon, a transgender AIDS patient with a drug habit, who partners with Woodroof to set up a business making drugs available to HIV-positive patients whose prospects were otherwise thwarted by the FDA approval process. Leto (who shed a whopping 30 to 40 pounds for his performance) has already won the Screen Actors Guild Award and the Golden Globe, as well as a slew of critics' group prizes, and is a front-runner for the Oscar.<br/><br />'I think it's great,' Leto told CBSNews.com's Lauren Moraski about the critical acclaim surrounding 'Dallas Buyers Club.' 'I've been part of a lot of films that haven't turned out as well as you [would have] hoped. You go in with good intentions. But when you make small independent films most of the time, they break your heart. So when they do survive, it's a wonderful thing to celebrate -- a film, a performance, a director.' 'Gravity' (Warner Brothers)<br/><br />The science fiction blockbuster 'Gravity,' filmed in 3-D in a seamless blend of stage photography and computer-generated graphics, is one of the rare movies that expands what's possible for cinema. Director James Cameron called it 'the best space film ever.'<br/><br />It comes from the imagination of a father-son team of director Alfonzo Cuaron and his son, screenwriter Jonas Cuaron.<br/><br />Alfonso Cuaron told the 'CBS This Morning' co-hosts that he has been thinking about making a movie like this since he was a kid (growing up he wanted to be an astronaut), but for this film there was no existing technology to capture the story.<br/><br />'So, we had to develop the technology,' he said. 'I think that technology and how we put it together is interesting, but I think, with all this technology, what really makes this film is Sandra's performance.'<br/><br />Bullock told 'CBS This Morning' that she was not only 'shocked' that the story of an astronaut stranded in outer space after a catastrophic event was written for a woman, but by how it was written as well.<br/><br />'Usually, it gets very soft and ... girly. I love a girly moment, but it didn't have a place in this, nor did they put it in there.'<br/><br />Cuaron said that she was adamant that the character not have a 'hint of damsel in distress.' 'Her' (Warner Brothers)<br/><br />Director Spike Jonze has wowed audiences with his hallucinatory tales of human emotions gone messily awry ('Being John Malkovich,' 'Adaptation'), and of innocents rejecting the contemporary world ('Where the Wild Things Are').<br/><br />In 'Her,' the tendency of humans to become too reliant upon their technological devices is taken to a radical extreme, with messy emotional fallout. Despite its sci-fi trappings and quirky humor, it is one of the most perceptive tales about romance to come along to the movies in a very long time.<br/><br />In the not-too-distant future, an operating system complete with artificial intelligence can become the user's personal assistant, confidante, motivational coach, BFF or lover. And when the voice of the computer program is that of Scarlett Johansson, it's not too much of a stretch to believe that Theodore (Joaquin Phoenix) could fall head over heels for her ... uhm, it.<br/><br />Jonze, who wrote the script, was inspired years ago by now-ancient IM software that is programmed to engage the user with normal-seeming responses. 'Her' asks, how would a real form of AI engage with a person, and how might that AI (and the human) be altered by the experience? Nebraska (Paramount Vantage)<br/><br /><br/><br />In 'Nebraska,' Bruce Dern plays the cantankerous and not-so-gracefully-aging Woody Grant, who insists on walking across four states to claim sweepstakes winnings, which his son (played by 'Saturday Night Live' alum Will Forte) says don't exist.<br/><br />'I knew when I saw the script on paper that I had to play the role,' Dern told 'Sunday Morning' correspondent Lee Cowan. 'I don't mean THEY wanted me to have to do it, but Bruce Dern had to find a way to be able to play this role.'<br/><br />The result: the Best Actor prize at the Cannes International Film Festival, and nominations for the Golden Globe, the Screen Actors Guild Award, and the Academy Award.<br/><br />Dern's co-star, veteran actress Juen Squibb, steals her scenes as his tart-tongued wife who, she says, has no filter: 'Absolutely whatever she thinks comes out of her mouth.'<br/><br />Also, 'She still thinks of herself as a sexy broad, even at the age she is.' 'Philomena' (Weinstein Company)<br/><br />Based on a true story, 'Philomena' stars Judi Dench as an unwed Irish woman forced to give up her toddler 50 years earlier. Steve Coogan, the film's co-writer, plays the reporter who tells her story.<br/><br />Coogan told the co-hosts of 'CBS This Morning' that reading the story of Philomena Lee in the paper moved him to tears, and compelled him to write the screenplay 'because, in some ways, Philomena could be anyone's mother, she could be anyone's grandmother.<br/><br />'The two of them had been looking for each other for years, without each other knowing,' he said.<br/><br />Coogan's character, Martin Sixsmith, joins Dench on a journey to find Philomena's long-lost child. 'In some ways, it's a road movie -- a buddy movie, an odd couple,' he said.<br/><br />'There's a lot of humor, a lot of comedy in the film, which I think people don't expect.' '12 Years a Slave' (Fox Searchlight)<br/><br />'12 Years a Slave,' by British director Steve McQueen, is based on a narrative published in 1853 by Solomon Northup, a married musician who awakened in the nation's capital in chains and at the mercy of slave traders.<br/><br />Without papers to prove his free status, Northup was transported across the Mason-Dixon Line to the Deep South, beginning a wrenching odyssey that would have sent most souls to the pits of despair.<br/><br />In short order, Northup experiences the degradations of a human being that is treated as property, whether from the mercantile interests of businessmen haggling over the prices of human chattle, to the arrogance of overlords bending slaves to their will, through the whip, the rope or the Bible.<br/><br />What makes this story particularly noteworthy is the lack of sentimentality in its telling -- while it features brutality (beatings, whippings, lynchings, rapes), it also conveys the icy chill of power exercised without remorse, as when men and women of the landed gentry were complicit in separating slave mothers from their children, to maximize profit. The quiet desperation of the slaves turns into a strait-jacket, made all the more intolerable by the master's assurance that their emotional pain will ebb.<br/><br />McQueen told 'CBS This Morning,' with regards to the film's violence, 'There's not cutting corners here. . . . It's necessary. It's a huge part of history and a part of history that needs to be visualized, needs to be told.'<br/><br />McQueen could be the first black director to win the Best Director Oscar. 'The Wolf of Wall Street' (Paramount Pictures)<br/><br />Leonardo DiCaprio was desperate to make 'The Wolf of Wall Street,' a vibrant and polarizing look at the greed and excess of the bull market of the 1990s -- especially one charismatic, almost cult-like broker named Jordan Belfort.<br/><br />DiCaprio was intrigued by Belfort's autobiography, an unvarnished tale of drug abuse, and abuse of his clients, cheating investors out of millions, before going to prison for securities fraud and money laundering.<br/><br />DiCaprio shopped the movie around for seven years, with no takers. Even director Martin Scorsese was reluctant at first.<br/><br />Why so obsessed? 'Because the world that we live in seems to be very surreal sometimes,' DiCaprio told 'Sunday Morning' correspondent Lee Cowan. 'The incessant need for more is a part of our culture, and I see it all around me. And you know, doing this movie we wanted to put that darker nature of humanity up on screen.'<br/><br />His persistence paid off. His performance has already earned him a Golden Globe, and he's up for two Oscars -- his fourth nomination for acting, and also as the film's producer.<br/><br />Take our other Oscar 2014 polls! Your pick for Best ActorYour pick for Best ActressYour pick for Best Supporting ActorYour pick for Best Supporting ActressYour pick for Best Original Song<br/><br />Post By http://ift.tt/1bSpp7O</div>

Hot News: Oscars 2014: Take our Best Picture poll

The Academy Awards will be presented, finally, on Sunday, March 2, with one of the tightest Best Picture races in recent memory. Check out t...

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Hot News: Sarah Jones: 'Vampire Diaries' Airs Beautiful Tribute After Tragic Death

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><img height="300" src="http://ift.tt/Nc1rt1" width="100%"/>'The Vampire Diaries' faced a devastating loss when a young crew member named Sarah Jones died in a horrific train accident while filming a movie. On Feb. 27, as the cast and crew fought to raise on-set safety awareness in the real world, the show aired a beautiful tribute to Sarah after its latest brand new episode.<br/><br />The Vampire Diaries has always referred to its cast, crew, and fans as the 'TVD Family,' and this family has never been stronger than now, as they deal with the tragic loss of one of the show's beloved crew members, <strong>Sarah Jones</strong>. Sarah, who was only 27 years old, was struck by a train and killed while shooting the film Midnight Rider in Georgia. 'Vampire Diaries' Airs Sarah Jones Tribute<br/><br />What a kind ground of people; this 'TVD Family.' Immediately following the Feb. 27 episode 'No Exit,' the wildly popular show faded to black and wrote a simple but powerful message:<br/><br />'In Loving Memory of Sarah Jones, 1986 - 2014.'<br/><br />Undoubtedly this action will lead to more people looking up Sarah to learn her story, and hopefully it will help raise awareness so that a senseless tragedy like this will never happen again. 'Vampire Diaries' EP Caroline Dries - 'It's Been A Tidal Wave Of Emotion'<br/><br /><strong>HollywoodLife.com</strong> spoke to the show's Executive Producer <strong>Caroline Dries</strong> on Feb. 27, and she explained that Sarah's memory is extremely important to preserve - not only because she was a wonderful young woman, but because her death could possibly influence a major change in on-set safety.<br/><br />'Yes, [the cast and crew] would like to have her name at the Oscars' 'In Memoriam' section,' Caroline says. 'But more so, [the campaign] is about awareness about Sarah specifically... and also, more awareness about set safety. [It's about] having the leadership roles on set really step up and say 'no.' What we said to the crew the day after we learned [about Sarah's death] was 'no shot will ever be as important as you, as your friends, as your family... as you are as people. This is not the end of the world. This job will never be the end of the world. You are always the most important person; the most important thing.''<br/><br />Additionally, Caroline expressed her heartfelt appreciation of the fans and fellow artists worldwide who have been honoring Sarah's memory.<br/><br />'Camera departments all over the country and even all over the world have been sending us pictures of their slates, which is what you slap in front of the camera to say what scene you're on, and who the director is,' Caroline continues. 'It's been this viral movement. It's been this moving, overwhelming tidal wave of emotion. It's been really cool. I clicked on the [Twitter] hashtag and was like, 'Oh my gosh!' There's so many pictures of so many crews. It's amazing.'<br/><br />How did you feel when you saw the tribute to Sarah, <strong>HollywoodLifers</strong>? <strong>- Shaunna Murphy</strong>Follow @ShaunnaLMurphy More 'Vampire Diaries' News:<br/><br />'Vampire Diaries' EP On Sarah Jones: Why Her Death Could Save Lives 'Vampire Diaries' Cast Campaigns to Honor Crew Member At Oscars 'Vampire Diaries' EP On Katherine's 'Sexy' Deception & Hope For Delena<br/><br />Post By http://ift.tt/1eF8r7V</div>

Hot News: Sarah Jones: 'Vampire Diaries' Airs Beautiful Tribute After Tragic Death

'The Vampire Diaries' faced a devastating loss when a young crew member named Sarah Jones died in a horrific train accident while fi...

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Hot News: 'Grey's Anatomy': Why Won't They Just Let Shane Get Fired Already?

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><img height="300" src="http://ift.tt/Nc1pl8" width="100%"/>'Grey's Anatomy' finally returned on Feb. 27 - and the emotional struggles continued.<br/><br />In an unsurprising turn of events April ( <strong>Sarah Drew</strong>) chooses Jackson (<strong>Jesse Williams</strong>), but the decision quickly comes with consequence. Cristina (<strong>Sandra Oh</strong>) desperately tries to make amends with Meredith (<strong>Ellen Pompeo</strong>) in the only way she knows how, and Alex (<strong>Justin Chambers</strong>) fights just about everyone for his fathers life.<br/><br />Needless to say, the return of Grey's Anatomy picked up right where we left it - and dragged our emotions along for the ride. Runaway Love<br/><br />The bride must be wearing sneakers, because April is on the run. And yes, her choice is with her - and of course it's Jackson! Looking thrilled to be together the two jump into his car hoping to run away and live happily ever after. There's a slight hitch in their plans when April gets hesitant, but she encourages Jackson to drive away and never look back.<br/><br />Well, until they pull over and she has a nervous breakdown because she realizes just exactly what she's done. Meanwhile, Stephanie ( <strong>Jerrika Hinton</strong>) looks like a deer in headlights when her friends find her in the locker room still reeling from Jackson running away with April. Thankfully, she gets some entertainment in her life when what we'll call a 'Cat Man' comes in the E.R. after getting hit by a car. We've seen weirder things though, haven't we? In fact, the Cat Man seems to inspire Stephanie to move on with her life because sometimes it's just too short.<br/><br />Leah ( <strong>Tessa Ferrer</strong>) is the first person to slam Jackson on Stephanie's behalf, and he admits that breaking Stephanie's heart is basically the worst thing he's ever done. The confession isn't enough to put off Leah, but he reminds her she picked a terrible time to chastise him since they are trying to surgically repair a man's arm at the same moment.<br/><br />Things take a turn when Leah decides to remind Stephanie that Jackson is actually her boss - and she can get him in big trouble for treating her like an 'expendable.' You already know that's what the emergency board meeting is about at the end of the episode, and Hunt uses Stephanie's complaints to try and change the hospital for the better.<br/><br />We're finally shown what we didn't see before: Jackson and April trying to figure out what to do after April gets out of the car. She's worried about all of the people in their lives they are going to have to explain this too, and he proposes. When April says yes, they get back in their car and drive away to their happily ever after. Lucky for them, it includes an ice cream maker! Friends Forever?<br/><br />When we last saw Cristina and Meredith, they finally acknowledged they were growing apart and dragged each other through the mud in the process. After being ridiculed by Cristina, Meredith now has to deal with hubby Derek's (<strong>Patrick Dempsey</strong>) priority switch once he tells her that the President of the United States needs him.<br/><br />Derek meets with some important suits from Washington D.C. about the POTUS, and Cristina tracks down Meredith and invites her to do a surgery with her. What a better way for two surgeons to mend their bond than heart surgery? During the surgery the two girls really do seem like they're putting their friendship back together, and Cristina admits that she is furious with Shane (Gauis Charles). After all, she did fight for him to get yet another chance at the hospital and he's already bailed on everyone. Home Is Where You Are<br/><br />Will they or won't they? Callie (Sara Ramirez) and Arizona's (Jessica Capshaw) relationship continues it's tug-of-war. We're re-introduced to the couple screaming at each other after April's wedding, and the emotional breakdown capsizes when Callie asks Arizona to come home with her and talk it out - but Arizona quickly reminds her: 'It's not my home anymore.' Ouch.<br/><br />Then <strong>Shonda Rimes</strong> has us fast forward three weeks and, oh look! Callie and Arizona are looking at homes together. Wait, what? Just like that? Yes, just like that. I guess love prevails after all! For now.<br/><br />Later in the episode, Arizona makes a romantic confession: she doesn't see any part of the hospital in their brand new home. She sees tire swings, white picket fences, and that's all she wants. It's every girl's dream, isn't it? Who cares what happened in the three weeks we missed, these two deserve another chance! Bailey Needs Something More<br/><br />Bailey is still freaking out over her second husband Ben's lack of motivation. This time instead of counting fingers, and ceiling squares, and stitches, she's screaming at him for being a replica of her first husband. Bailey doesn't want a man sitting at home waiting for her to find out how her day was. Bailey wants a man with drive, a man with goals, a man that prioritizes things other than her. Bailey is not your ordinary woman, and she makes damn sure everyone knows it.<br/><br />After the three week jump, Ben is back at work in the operating room and under the supervision of Hunt and the Chief. They unintentionally pit him against everyone's least favorite doctor in training, Shane, and by the end of the day Shane is proved completely incompetent when he can't answer one of Hunt's basic anatomy questions during a surgery. <strong>We're Engaged?</strong><br/><br />The pressure of dealing with his sick dad is just way too much for Alex. He's never been good at thinking rationally under pressure, and now is a prime example of that. Not only did he call and tell them that his dad was dead already, but he introduces his girlfriend to her as his fiance. She's clearly baffled by the introduction, and when she confronts him about it his angry reaction forces her to admit that she doesn't want to marry him. Not yet, at least.<br/><br />As if all of this weren't enough, when Shane tries apologizing to Alex for what happened to his father it results in Alex lunging at Shane and punching him until Cristina and Meredith have to rip them apart. Shane really doesn't know when to walk away, that's for sure.<br/><br />Soon after, Alex's father takes a turn for the worse. Alex tells him what he needs to hear - that his other son and wife love him. That they are on their way to see him. And that he can let go. So he does. Even though Alex is teary eyed as he watches his father die, his anger over the lack of affection from his father remains at center stage. Once again, Alex has to take a backseat to a family he doesn't even know. More 'Grey's Anatomy' News:<br/><br />'Grey's Anatomy' Recap: Jackson Makes An Epic Confession 'Grey's Anatomy' Recap: Cristina Defends Shane Against Meredith 'Grey's Anatomy' Recap: Shane Confronts Meredith About Cristina<br/><br />Post By http://ift.tt/1mK6Rbc</div>

Hot News: 'Grey's Anatomy': Why Won't They Just Let Shane Get Fired Already?

'Grey's Anatomy' finally returned on Feb. 27 - and the emotional struggles continued. In an unsurprising turn of events April ( ...

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Hot News: Vikings stars on why season 2 is more epic than Thor

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><img height="300" src="http://ift.tt/Nc1oNV" width="100%"/><br/><br />Vikings season two is now available to UK fans via Amazon Prime Instant Video.<br/><br />From today - Friday, February 28 - new episodes of the hit cable drama will be made available to UK subscribers the day after US broadcast.<br/><br /><strong>Digital Spy</strong> spoke to stars Katheryn Winnick (Lagertha) and George Blagden (Athelstan) - plus creator <strong>Michael Hirst</strong> - about the 'overwhelming' reaction to season one and why season two is 'bigger and better' than the first.<br/><br />The trio also talk Ragnar's formidable new nemesis, how the show manages to be both entertaining and educational and why Vikings outdoes when it comes to action.<br/><br />New episodes of Vikings season two will premiere on Amazon Prime Instant Video every Friday, with season one also available to stream. <strong>Ripper Street returns: Fan outcry at axing led to revival, say stars</strong><br/><br />Watch a teaser for Vikings season two below:<br/><br />Post By http://ift.tt/1kvt63g</div>

Hot News: Vikings stars on why season 2 is more epic than Thor

Vikings season two is now available to UK fans via Amazon Prime Instant Video. From today - Friday, February 28 - new episodes of the hit ca...

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Hot News: Mila Kunis And Ashton Kutcher Are Engaged (Unofficially)

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><img height="300" src="http://ift.tt/1ksytQD" width="100%"/><br/><br />The couple hasn't confirmed the news yet but sources expect them to soon<br/><br /><small>Mark J. Terrill / ASSOCIATED PRESS</small><br/><br />Mila Kunis and Ashton Kutcher are about to tie the knot, People and E! News report.<br/><br />The celebrity couple hasn't confirmed the engagement, but according to anonymous sources quoted on People and E! News, the engagement will soon be made official. This week Mila Kunis was spotted with a giant diamond ring on her finger when she was out shopping.<br/><br />The couple has been dating for close to two years and rumors about their engagement have been swirling for months. They met when co-starring on That 70′s Show. Crisis in Crimea: Unrest in Ukraine's Russian Stronghold Saving Chad's Elephants The 13 Most Influential Candy Bars Ever<br/><br />Post By http://ift.tt/OIxTEq</div>

Hot News: Mila Kunis And Ashton Kutcher Are Engaged (Unofficially)

The couple hasn't confirmed the news yet but sources expect them to soon Mark J. Terrill / ASSOCIATED PRESS Mila Kunis and Ashton Kutche...

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Hot News: 'Grey's Anatomy': The 10 Biggest Reveals From the Midseason Premiere

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><img height="300" src="http://ift.tt/1hGJVqk" width="100%"/><br/><br /><strong>[Warning: This story contains spoilers from the 'Take It Back' episode of ABC's Grey's Anatomy.]</strong><br/><br />ABC's Grey's Anatomy returned from its midseason hiatus Thursday with a modest time jump and fully loaded episode that set the table for the remainder of its 10th season.<br/><br />During the hour, April made her choice between Jackson and Matthew (more on that here in our interview with <strong>Sarah Drew</strong>), Callie ( <strong>Sara Ramirez</strong>) and Arizona ( <strong>Jessica Capshaw</strong>) made a big investment and Grey Sloan Memorial is making a major change (or at least trying to). Here are the 10 big reveals from the episode. <strong>PHOTOS: On the Set of 'Grey's Anatomy's' 200th Episode</strong><br/><br />1. April makes her choice -- and it's Jackson ( <strong>Jesse Williams</strong>). They eloped to Reno and are keeping their relationship a secret from everyone. (Check out our postmortem interview with Drew here.)<br/><br />2. Shane ( <strong>Gaius Charles</strong>) is back at the hospital but Owen ( <strong>Kevin McKidd</strong>) is going to make his life impossible -- at least to start -- after the latter learns of the newbie's sexcapades with Cristina ( <strong>Sandra Oh</strong>).<br/><br />3. Alex's ( <strong>Justin Chambers</strong>) father, Jimmy, dies. But not before Alex can give him a happy send-off after lying to him about how his remaining family feels about him. As part of Alex's frustration over his lost time with his father, he beats the crap out of Shane for botching the surgery. <strong>PHOTOS: The Couples of Shondaland: 'Grey's Anatomy,' 'Private Practice,' 'Scandal'</strong><br/><br />4. Callie and Arizona are back in the saddle! After a tearful Arizona revealed that their apartment -- filled with memories of her amputation and subsequent recovery -- didn't feel like her home, the couple buy a fixer-upper and move into a new house in a bid to start over.<br/><br />5. Ben ( <strong>Jason George</strong>) joins the residents' gang and reveals that he originally left his L.A.-based program because he wanted to spend more time with Bailey ( <strong>Chandra Wilson</strong>), who accused him of causing her OCD.<br/><br />6. Stephanie ( <strong>Jerrika Hinton</strong>) is still in shock after Jackson ditched her for April at the wedding. She tearfully confesses she knew better to Leah ( <strong>Tessa Ferrer</strong>), who accuses Jackson of taking advantage of the situation considering he is their boss. (Leah accuses Arizona of doing the same with her, ditto for Cristina with Shane.) The still-scorned Leah suggests they do something about it.<br/><br />7. Speaking of Leah and Stephanie, the residents file claims with HR that prompt the hospital to strongly consider a zero-tolerance policy when it comes to relationships with subordinates. Pre-existing married couples -- Meredith and Derek, Arizona and Callie, Bailey and Ben -- naturally are excluded. Naturally, this will put pressure on Jackson and April to reveal their marriage and Alex and Jo to figure out what their future together is. <strong>PHOTOS: 'Grey's Anatomy's' Famous Departures</strong><br/><br />8. Alex and Jo ( <strong>Camilla Luddington</strong>) continue their bumpy relationship, with Alex now referring to his partner as his 'fiancée' -- much to Jo's surprise. Their slow-mance continues to be one of Grey's Anatomy's most promising stories this season as Alex slowly but surely opens up to reveal his big but damaged beating heart.<br/><br />9. Cristina and Meredith ( <strong>Ellen Pompeo</strong>) are back! The duo has overcome -- at least temporarily -- their family vs. career debate.<br/><br />10. Meredith and Derek ( <strong>Patrick Dempsey</strong>) are at odds over his White House gig. Mer is angry that this was supposed to be her time to focus on career after making professional sacrifices for their family. Derek, meanwhile, is being vetted by the White House, who uncover a $3,500 monthly payment he makes to the family of a former high school hockey teammate whose life permanently changed after he suffered a brain bleed Derek caused.<br/><br />What were your highlights? Which story line are you most looking forward to seeing play out in the remainder of season 10? Hit the comments below with your thoughts. Grey's Anatomy airs Thursdays at 9 p.m. on ABC.<br/><br />Post By http://ift.tt/1hXLsNa</div>

Hot News: 'Grey's Anatomy': The 10 Biggest Reveals From the Midseason Premiere

[Warning: This story contains spoilers from the 'Take It Back' episode of ABC's Grey's Anatomy.] ABC's Grey's Anatom...

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Hot News: Mila Kunis reveals HUGE diamond ring on her wedding finger as it's revealed ...

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><img height="300" src="http://ift.tt/1aPMceO" width="100%"/><br/><br />By Daily Mail Reporter<br/><br /><strong>PUBLISHED:</strong> 21:49 EST, 27 February 2014 | <strong>UPDATED:</strong> 22:14 EST, 27 February 2014<br/><br />Mila Kunis flashed a huge diamond ring on her finger on Thursday amid new reports she was engaged to her boyfriend Ashton Kutcher.<br/><br />The bright flawless stone set on a simple band setting caught the light as the 30-year-old happily showed off her hands.<br/><br />The 30-year-old made no attempt to hide the sparkler while shopping at The Grove outdoor mall with her mother Elvira.<br/><br />The engagement was confirmed on Thursday by E! News who quoted a source who said the couple planned to marry.<br/><br />Mila has been dating her 36-year-old That 70s Show co-star Ashton for two years.<br/><br />The actress shared an Instagram photo of herself and Ashton sporting huge smiles on Wednesday with the caption reading, 'I love you @kutcher78'.<br/><br />The pair frequently have been the subject of engagement reports and with Ashton's divorce to his first wife Demi Moore newly confirmed, it seems this time it could be for real.<br/><br />Mila and Ashton started dating following his split from 51-year-old ex-wife Demi.<br/><br />Ashton and Demi married in September 2005 and she announced in 2011 that they were splitting up.<br/><br />Nearly a year after Ashton filed for divorce it was finalised in November 2013.<br/><br />Mila recently revealed that she and her beau like nothing better than a casual night out together.<br/><br />'We have a thing called white T-shirt night and it's when you wear jeans and a white T-shirt and you go on a date,' she told Cosmopolitan magazine.<br/><br />'Nothing fancy, it's just something that you love to do. And whether that's bowling or dinner or going to a cheese shop and have some wine or walking around.'<br/><br />The Black Swan earlier this month threw a surprise party for Ashton's 36th birthday.<br/><br />Mila rented out one of Ashton's favourite restaurants La Poubelle in Hollywood for the birthday party and invited a bunch of his friends.<br/><br /><br/><br /><br/><br />Post By http://ift.tt/1cYSvAR</div>

Hot News: Mila Kunis reveals HUGE diamond ring on her wedding finger as it's revealed ...

By Daily Mail Reporter PUBLISHED: 21:49 EST, 27 February 2014 | UPDATED: 22:14 EST, 27 February 2014 Mila Kunis flashed a huge diamond rin...

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Hot News: 'Vampire Diaries' EP On Sarah Jones: Why Her Death Could Save Lives

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><img height="300" src="http://ift.tt/1ksDSam" width="100%"/>'The Vampire Diaries' lost a beloved member of its family on Feb. 20, when 27-year-old Sarah Jones was tragically struck by a train while filming a movie. Now, the show's producer Caroline Dries has spoken to HollywoodLife.com about why her death has inspired a potentially life-saving movement from the show's cast and crew.<br/><br />Vampire Diaries fans were shocked when <strong>Nina Dobrev</strong> and <strong>Ian Somerhalder</strong> revealed via social media that a young member of their crew, <strong>Sarah Jones</strong>, had been struck by a train and killed while shooting the film Midnight Rider in Georgia. Now, the show's producer Caroline Dries has spoken to <strong>HollywoodLife.com</strong> about the inspiring campaign that Nina, Ian, <strong>Paul Wesley</strong>, and more are promoting to honor her memory and - hopefully - save some lives in the process. 'Vampire Diaries' - Caroline Dries Talks Crew Member Sarah Jones<br/><br />Immediately following Sarah's death, Nina reached out to her roughly 4.5 million Twitter followers, urging them to sign the Slates for Sarah petition that seeks to include Sarah in the annual 'In Memoriam' tribute ceremony during this weekend's Oscars. However, Caroline explains to <strong>HollywoodLife.com</strong> that there's far more to it than that.<br/><br />'Yes, [the cast and crew] would like to have her name at the Oscars' 'In Memoriam' section,' Caroline says. 'But more so, [the campaign] is about awareness about Sarah specifically... and also, more awareness about set safety. [It's about] having the leadership roles on set really step up and say 'no.' What we said to the crew the day after we learned [about Sarah's death] was 'no shot will ever be as important as you, as your friends, as your family... as you are as people. This is not the end of the world. This job will never be the end of the world. You are always the most important person; the most important thing.'' 'Vampire Diaries' EP - How You Can Join The Movement<br/><br />The Slates for Sarah Facebook page - which was started by Sarah's friends and colleagues - focuses less on the Oscars, and more about raising awareness about on-set safety issues. Nina, Ian, Paul, and more have urged camera crews all over the world to send pictures of their directing slates; creating a viral movement that will hopefully inspire others to focus on on-set safety.<br/><br />'Camera departments all over the country and even all over the world have been sending us pictures of their slates, which is what you slap in front of the camera to say what scene you're on, and who the director is,' Caroline continues. 'It's been this viral movement. It's been this moving, overwhelming tidal wave of emotion. It's been really cool. I clicked on the [Twitter] hashtag and was like, 'Oh my gosh!' There's so many pictures of so many crews. It's amazing.'<br/><br />We at <strong>HollywoodLife.com</strong> continue to be inspired by the TVD Family, and their dedication to producing a great show while also focusing on the 'little people' involved behind the scenes. What do you think, <strong>HollywoodLifers</strong>? <strong>- Shaunna Murphy</strong>Follow @ShaunnaLMurphy More Sarah Jones News:<br/><br />Sarah Jones: 5 Things To Know About Dead 'Vampire Diaries' Crew Member 'Vampire Diaries' Cast Campaigns to Honor Crew Member At Oscars Nina Dobrev & 'Vampire Diaries' Cast Mourn Crew Member's Tragic Death<br/><br />Post By http://ift.tt/1mGGgMa</div>

Hot News: 'Vampire Diaries' EP On Sarah Jones: Why Her Death Could Save Lives

'The Vampire Diaries' lost a beloved member of its family on Feb. 20, when 27-year-old Sarah Jones was tragically struck by a train ...

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Hot News: Washington Wizards outlast Toronto Raptors in triple overtime

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><img height="300" src="http://ift.tt/1etb3dz" width="100%"/><br/><br />TORONTO - Unless something very strange happens, the Toronto Raptors and Washington Wizards will both make the playoffs for the first time since the 2007-08 season. They have both won precisely one series in the 19 seasons that the Raptors have existed. In other words: These are two of the worst franchises in modern league history.<br/><br />The Raptors would have been fine extending the drought to six years this year. General manager Masai Ujiri was never going to cash in his assets - his young, cheap players and future draft picks - simply to crack the Eastern Conference's top eight. The team has played well since the Rudy Gay trade, and here the Raptors are.<br/><br />The Wizards had that mandate, though. As soon as they traded their first-round draft pick for Marcin Gortat in October, the Wizards had to make the playoffs. Anything else would have been an unmitigated disaster that would have resulted in plenty of firings. To solidify the team, the Wizards traded a second-round pick and former lottery pick (albeit a disaster of a selection) Jan Vesely for backup point guard Andre Miller. You do not do that in today's NBA unless either a championship or your continued employment is on the line.<br/><br />Ultimately, that added veteran depth was the difference in a game that went from sloppy to epic to hilarious within an hour or so. The Wizards won a triple-overtime marathon, 134-129. By the end of the game, the Raptors were playing without four of their best defenders: Terrence Ross, who sprained his ankle in the second quarter, and Kyle Lowry, Amir Johnson and Patrick Patterson, who all fouled out. It is hard to recover from all of that. By the end, the Wizards punished the undermanned Raptors in transition.<br/><br />The Wizards needed Gortat to stay in the game. He scored each of the Wizards' final three baskets, including a game-tying put-back with five seconds remaining. Gortat wound up with 31 points and 12 rebounds before fouling out in the third overtime. Lowry missed a floater as the clock expired, landing awkwardly on his ankle. Somehow, he stayed in the game in overtime. Lowry had a potential game-winner blocked in the first overtime, too.<br/><br />For the Raptors, the Gay trade is the deal that keeps on giving. Greivis Vasquez is slow for a point guard, but his collection of floaters and push shots resulted in 26 points against the Wizards. John Wall finished with 31 points. DeMar DeRozan led everybody with 34 points and 58 minutes logged.<br/><br />Due to the maneuvering, the Wizards can deal with an injury or two. An injury to a starter can derail a team, but the Wizards have Gortat to make up for Nene's presence. There is an obvious loss of depth involved, but they have a survival mechanism.<br/><br />For the Raptors, an injury could be more problematic. Ross, hardly the most integral player in the rotation, left the game in the second quarter with a sprained left ankle. The Raptors had no natural response. The creaky John Salmons replaced Ross in the starting lineup for the second half, while Lowry and DeMar DeRozan each had to play the first 15 minutes of the half. They both got only short breathers in the fourth quarters. With the injury to Ross and Lowry's late ailment, Salmons had to guard John Wall late in the game. Salmons was giving up just a little bit of speed.<br/><br />The Raptors, for this year's purposes, could have used another swingman to provide an upgrade on Salmons or another 7-footer to fortify the frontcourt. Ujiri decided they were not worth giving up an asset. The Wizards, obviously, made the opposite conclusion. For one night, it was all of the difference. The reality could feel a lot different come the June draft.<br/><br />Post By http://ift.tt/1dHsW4h</div>

Hot News: Washington Wizards outlast Toronto Raptors in triple overtime

TORONTO - Unless something very strange happens, the Toronto Raptors and Washington Wizards will both make the playoffs for the first time s...

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Hot News: Opposition shut out of Aga Khan event

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><img height="300" src="http://ift.tt/1cYT2CQ" width="100%"/>Arizona Gov. Jan Brewer has vetoed a bill that set off a national debate over gay rights, religion and discrimination and subjected the state to blistering criticism from major corporations and political leaders from both parties. (Feb. 26) AP Video<br /><h6>Video</h6><br /><div><br /><p><a href='http://ift.tt/1ftOiYo' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'><img height="300" src="http://ift.tt/1eD3NHx" width="100%"/> </a> Nineteen-month-old Daniele De Sanctis made a star turn on Wednesday as he showed off this year's must-have Carnival costume at the pope's general audience in Vatican City. (Feb. 26) AP Video</p><br /><h6>Video</h6><br /></div><br /><div><br /><p><a href='http://ift.tt/1krWJCv' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'><img height="300" src="http://ift.tt/1cYT2Ta" width="100%"/><br/><br />Opposition members are accusing the Conservative government of disregarding the Aga Khan's message of pluralism by leaving them out of an event featuring the spiritual leader in Toronto.</a> </p><br /><a href='http://ift.tt/1krWJCv' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'><br/><br />The hereditary leader of the world's Ismaili Muslims is expected to address a crowd of community members, chief executives and Canadian government officials at Toronto's Massey Hall on Friday afternoon. But while Prime Minister Stephen Harper and at least two Conservative ministers will attend the event, opposition members say they were denied the opportunity to participate.<br/><br /><br/><br />Arizona Gov. Jan Brewer has vetoed a bill that set off a national debate over gay rights, religion and discrimination and subjected the state to blistering criticism from major corporations and political leaders from both parties. (Feb. 26) AP Video Video<br/><br />Nineteen-month-old Daniele De Sanctis made a star turn on Wednesday as he showed off this year's must-have Carnival costume at the pope's general audience in Vatican City. (Feb. 26) AP Video Video<br/><br />Video<br/><br />NDP Leader Thomas Mulcair said both he and Liberal Leader Justin Trudeau met with the Aga Khan on Parliament Hill Thursday, but neither party's members were invited to the Massey Hall event. 'The Aga Khan is a model for working together and reaching out to other people, so it's a shame that for that event in Toronto tomorrow, no one else seems to have been invited,' Mr. Mulcair said.<br/><br />Liberal MP Chrystia Freeland, who represents the riding where the event is being held, said she found the government's approach to the event 'insulting,' particularly in the context of this week's government delegation to Ukraine, which also did not include any opposition members.<br/><br />'This is a highly partisan government that behaves that way,' Liberal foreign affairs critic Marc Garneau told reporters on Thursday.<br/><br />A spokesman from the Prime Minister's Office said invitations for the Massey Hall event were extended to chief executives, charitable sector leaders and thousands of people from the community. 'Those trying to cheapen the event by flinging baseless partisan accusations should be ashamed of themselves,' Jason MacDonald wrote in an e-mail. 'We won't dignify these partisan attacks with a response.'<br/><br />Earlier on Thursday, Mr. Harper signed a protocol of understanding with the Aga Khan aimed at strengthening the government's relationship with the spiritual leader. The Aga Khan has a long history with Canada and was granted honorary citizenship in 2009.<br/><br />He has also founded schools and religious centres around the world and recently created the Global Centre for Pluralism in Ottawa.<br/><br />Speaking before a joint session of Parliament on Thursday morning, the Aga Khan praised Canada's commitment to pluralism and education, calling the country a global leader. At the same time, he said instability in the world has left some questioning the ability of governments to address real concerns about quality of life, opening a growing role for civil society.<br/><br />Civil society can provide hope and help transform lives, the Aga Khan said, adding, 'It means opening the way for diversity, it means welcoming plurality.'<br/><br />Few people who are not heads of state have been invited to address a joint session of Parliament. In the past, Mr. Harper has referred to a 'warm and lasting friendship' with the Aga Khan and called him a champion of international development and tolerance.<br/><br />The Aga Khan Development Network has received funding from the Canadian government for international development projects, including those focused on maternal and child health. Canada made the issue a key focus of its development efforts when it announced the Muskoka Initiative in 2010.<br/><br />Speaking in the House of Commons on Thursday morning, Mr. Harper praised the Aga Khan's approach to pluralism, adding, 'I value your counsel and your friendship.'<br/><br />Post By http://ift.tt/1eD3Q5W</a> </div><br /></div>

Hot News: Opposition shut out of Aga Khan event

Arizona Gov. Jan Brewer has vetoed a bill that set off a national debate over gay rights, religion and discrimination and subjected the stat...

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Hot News: 95-year-old Navy veteran and Pearl Harbor survivor shares story with West ...

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><img height="300" src="http://ift.tt/1eD3NqR" width="100%"/><br/><br />Friday, February 28 ^th, 2014Issue 09, Volume 18.<br/><br />Yeoman Durrell Conner was wrapping presents for his sister's children on what seemed to be an average, run-of-the-mill day when Japanese forces unexpectedly attacked Pearl Harbor on Dec. 7, 1941 and torpedoed his ship, the U.S.S California, and others.<br/><br />The day would become what Conner has described as the longest in his life, and it was the events that occurred over the course of that day that he discussed with a group of nearly two dozen individuals who packed a backroom of West Coast Ammo in Temecula at 1 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 22.<br/><br />The event was part of a series that occurs monthly and is put on by The World War II Experience, a nonprofit organization dedicated to teaching audiences about the history of World War II by focusing on the stories of the people that were there.<br/><br />The organization was founded by Linda Dudik, PhD., a former Palomar College professor who felt compelled to share the stories of veterans and how those stories fit into a historical context. That's exactly what she's been doing since she started a partnership with West Coast Ammo, where speaker events are held.<br/><br />Dudik said that it's particularly important to hear firsthand accounts of what occurred at Pearl Harbor because such stories shed light on just how difficult it was to be under attack and they also remind people of the significance of the date that President Franklin D. Roosevelt said would live in infamy.<br/><br />'One of my Pearl Harbor friends always understood that they're known as Pearl Harbor survivors,' Dudik said. 'But he liked to call himself and the other people that were there Pearl Harbor defenders because they were on the front line that day.'<br/><br />'We especially welcome children (to the event) because we're hoping future generations will know December 7th,' she said.<br/><br />The audience present became enthralled in a presentation led by Dudik that discussed the life of the now 95-year-old Conner and how his environment and the era he grew up in impacted his decision to enlist in the armed services.<br/><br />Conner joined at a time when it was actually very difficult to become a part of the Navy because, in the midst of the depression, everyone wanted to have a job.<br/><br />The Navy's promise of a monthly salary, food and a bed was something that drew in huge numbers of people to enlist and that number was so large, according to Dudik, that only one in ten people was actually accepted.<br/><br />But Conner was not like many of his peers; he had worked to finish a high school diploma, a thing that very few GIs had at that time. In fact only one in every four GIs had a grade school education, according to Dudik.<br/><br />After being accepted into the Navy Advertisement[ Casa Tiene Vista ] and going through boot camp in San Diego, Conner was assigned to the U.S.S. California where he started as a wiper. He cleaned the long-range guns on the ship.<br/><br />Eventually Conner would hear of an opening on the admiral's staff when he was stationed in Norfolk, Virginia. The position was to work in communications, which Conner was well-suited for since he had learned how to type during his high school years.<br/><br />He spent his days uncoding and recoding messages, many of which were top-secret.<br/><br />Conner was still a cryptographer when the U.S.S. California was stationed in Pearl Harbor and had been getting the presents ready for his relatives at such an early date because of the way mail was processed.<br/><br />'Back then we didn't have mail like we know it now,' Conner said. 'We had clipper ship or clipper plane that came in once a month and so we were advised that we should wrap our Christmas presents and get them on the mail early otherwise they'd never get there in time.'<br/><br />'I was wrapping Christmas presents for my nephew and niece and that's when I heard this commotion,' he said. 'And that's when I looked over the port and I saw an airplane, real low, coming at us and he dropped something and he has banked away that's when I saw the red emblem of the rising sun on the plane so I knew what he had dropped.'<br/><br />The torpedo, one of at least two that hit the ship around 8:05 a.m., hit about 15 or 20 feet under where the cryptographer said he had been standing.<br/><br />Everybody went to their battle stations on the ship as it began to sink according to Conner. One of the torpedoes had gone through the ship and exploded, killing at least one hundred of the men.<br/><br />At some point during the ensuing chaos, Conner said he did something that he hoped would raise morale among the men. The American flag, which had been dropped by the Marines in the ensuing attack, was lying on the ground. Conner picked it up and hoisted it onto the line on the ship for everybody to see.<br/><br />Today the California Department of Veteran's Affairs in Sacramento claims to have the flag Conner raised, but he's not sure it is the right flag. He'll be going to Sacramento next week alongside Dudik to determine if it is.<br/><br />'We know, because it's documented, that it's in Sacramento somewhere,' he said. 'Now whether or not it's the flag they're going to show us, I don't know; it might be in some store room somewhere, but I hope it is the right flag.'<br/><br />West Coast Ammo is located at 41892 Enterprise Circle South, #B in Temecula. They can be reached at (951) 719-3272.<br/><br />Post By http://ift.tt/1cYT2mb</div>

Hot News: 95-year-old Navy veteran and Pearl Harbor survivor shares story with West ...

Friday, February 28 th , 2014Issue 09, Volume 18. Yeoman Durrell Conner was wrapping presents for his sister's children on what seemed t...

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Hot News: Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti praises role of 'BBC' in 'perfect match'

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><img height="300" src="http://ift.tt/1eCrRKl" width="100%"/><br/><br />Carlo Ancelotti has described Real Madrid's 6-1 walkover at Schalke as 'the perfect match'.<br/><br />'We played a very good game as we scored two early goals and then things opened up for us,' he said.<br/><br />'We made the most of the counter attack and the speed of our forwards.'<br/><br />The Italian coach praised his forward line, now being referred to as the 'BBC' - Gareth Bale, Karim Benzema and Cristiano Ronaldo - who each scored twice as Real totally overwhelmed the hapless Bundesliga side to practically ensure their place in the quarter-finals.<br/><br />Returning to action after serving a three-match ban in La Liga, Ronaldo took his goals tally in Europe's elite club competition this season to 11.<br/><br />'The three forwards scored and helped the team a lot, they are very dangerous in attack,' Ancelotti said. 'Cristiano doesn't surprise me. He was really up for the game following his ban. He prepared very well for this game and played very well.<br/><br />'Benzema's performance was very good, not only for the goals but because he helped the team in holding on to the ball and also made assists.<br/><br />'It could have been Bale's best game of the season because he had more confidence and attacked very well in the deep areas.'<br/><br />Real have a few days' rest before they take on Atlético Madrid in Sunday's La Liga derby and victory would put them six points clear of their city rivals with 12 games left.<br/><br />The champions Barcelona are also three points behind the leaders Real and host promoted Almeria in Sunday's late game. Real's return match at home to Schalke is on 18 March.<br/><br />'It's true that we have a big advantage but we still have to play the second leg,' Ancelotti, who won the Champions League with Milan twice as a player and twice as a coach, said.<br/><br />'We have to show respect to Schalke, to the fans and to the competition. We will play as well as we can in the return.'<br/><br />Post By http://ift.tt/1gEXjKP</div>

Hot News: Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti praises role of 'BBC' in 'perfect match'

Carlo Ancelotti has described Real Madrid's 6-1 walkover at Schalke as 'the perfect match'. 'We played a very good game as w...

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Hot News: Fords vs. Blair

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><img height="300" src="http://ift.tt/1kdkPnr" width="100%"/><br/><br />An angry Mayor Rob Ford has criticized Toronto police over the funds spent following him last fall, calling on Chief Bill Blair to 'come clean' about the cost of that investigation.<br/><br />'If he's going to arrest me, arrest me. I have done nothing wrong and he's wasted millions of dollars,' Ford said Thursday afternoon during a scrum with reporters at Toronto City Hall.<br/><br />'I want him to come clean and say how much money did it cost the taxpayers for surveillance on me and the planes that he had to rent - that is absolutely game-playing, it's politics and I am not apologizing.'<br/><br />Ford had first been talking with reporters about the status of city skating rinks, but the talk quickly turned to his testy relationship with the city's police chief.<br/><br />He expressed frustration Thursday that Blair had been offended by remarks Ford made about him. The public has had a chance to hear those remarks, as they are part of a bizarre video that was posted online last month that showed Ford speaking in a Jamaican patois.<br/><br />'I have nothing to apologize [for] and he owes the taxpayers of this city, why won't he come clean and tell the taxpayers how much has he spent on surveilling me and obviously coming up with nothing? Coming up with me urinating in a parking lot? Coming up with an empty vodka bottle?' said Ford. Mayor defends Steak Queen video remarks<br/><br />Ford also defended his behaviour in the patois video, which was recorded at Etobicoke's Steak Queen restaurant.<br/><br />'There's nothing illegal, I can go out and if I chose to do that with my friends, I did nothing illegal at Steak Queen, OK?' Ford said.<br/><br />'How I speak to my friends, as you know, and I am going to repeat what I've said before, I have a lot of Jamaican friends, if I speak that way in a private setting, which Steak Queen is, a private setting, and someone tapes me, I can't help it if someone tapes me, OK?' he added.<br/><br />Ford's personal life has long made headlines since he was elected as mayor in 2010.<br/><br />But when reports emerged last year that a video existed showing Ford using crack cocaine, the mayor found himself under a whole new level of media scrutiny.<br/><br />For months, Ford denied both the existence of the video and using crack cocaine.<br/><br />But days after Blair revealed that police had obtained a video file consistent with what the media had reported, Ford admitted that he had indeed smoked crack cocaine.<br/><br />The police chief's Oct. 31 announcement also revealed the arrest of Sandro Lisi, the mayor's friend and occasional driver, who has been charged with extortion.<br/><br />The extortion charge is related to alleged attempts to retrieve the video involving the mayor.<br/><br />Post By http://ift.tt/1ke71cn</div>

Hot News: Fords vs. Blair

An angry Mayor Rob Ford has criticized Toronto police over the funds spent following him last fall, calling on Chief Bill Blair to 'come...

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Hot News: 'Survivor: Cagayan': Jeff Probst weighs in on that crazy premiere

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><img height="300" src="http://ift.tt/J9N3x0" width="100%"/><br/><br /><strong>ENTERTAINMENT WEEKLY: Jeff, you know how much I love it when people have to make decisions on the spot, decisions that could dramatically impact their standing in the game and the way others view them. You had a bunch of those decisions you threw at them right out of the gate. Tell me about that.</strong>JEFF PROBST: The creative for this season began many months ago. Originally it was more detailed and had a few more steps involved, as we got closer we began to whittle it down to the essential beats, and by the time day one hit we were ready to go. The idea was to force decisions because with decisions come consequences. There is nowhere to hide when you are forced to pick a leader. Someone is going to be the chosen one. It's easy to say,'Just never be a leader, it's never a good idea,' but playing Survivor from a place of fear is a far worse idea. Plus, the truth is that 'leaders' tend to do very well on the show - much better than followers. The second twist came when the leader was then forced to pick the weakest. Again, decision and consequence. There isn't anything particularly original about our strategy of forcing decisions, it's the execution of the twist that matters. And then the third twist, a secret to the rest of the tribe, is that the person deemed 'least valuable' now has a chance to redeem or potentially save themselves, and if they are savvy enough, they might even accomplish both. That's a good opening set of twists!<br/><br /><strong>EW: There are book smarts, street smarts, and Survivor smarts. I think we can both agree that the Brains tribe so far is failing miserably in that third category. They can't build a shelter, they can't solve a puzzle, TWICE they are telling someone she is being voted off right to her face, and that someone also goes and throws all off their rice out...and then STILL doesn't get kicked off the tribe. What the hell is happening here?</strong>PROBST: Ah, the poor Brain tribe. I think they probably had the highest expectations coming into the game - both from the audience and themselves. They are after all, 'the smart ones!' To be fair, not everybody wanted to hold an impromptu Tribal Council but when you're part of a group, the majority typically wins. But yes, it was not a smart move. It NEVER, I repeat, NEVER is. There is massive risk and zero reward. There is simply no upside to telling someone they're going home. It can only work against you. I also think the high expectation placed on the Brain tribe can be contrasted to the low expectation people seem to have for the Beauty tribe. People are often quick to discount 'beauty' as not having much value, but it seems to me that 'looks' often open doors and those doors can lead to experiences and experiences help us mature. So the pretty people that everybody looks past are suddenly winning challenges and not panicking when things don't go as planned, because in their experience 'things always work out.' I may be going down the rabbit hole here, but my point is that this season's social experiment is playing out nicely thus far!<br/><br /><strong>EW: Did Garrett just not want to play this game? We heard him talk on day 4 about how miserable he was and about not digging the manual labor and the starving and how it wasn't a cool adventure at all. And then he appeared particularly adverse to any form of strategy talk in that second vote. Could this guy just not hack it?</strong>PROBST: I do think Garrett underestimated how physically difficult this game would be. You can tell by his body that he takes extremely good care of himself and his sculpted body- in part - comes from eating an extremely balanced and well timed diet consisting mostly of proteins. So four days of existing on only handfuls of rice is very tough on his system. This isn't an excuse, it's just the truth. Someone whose diet is a bit more average doesn't have the same reaction. I also think Garrett realized that he's an 'indoor' guy - again, nothing wrong with that. Just don't sign up for Survivor next time. I think Garrett got what he wanted from the experience. I don't think he quit, I think he was still playing, he just made a mistake in holding an 'open' Tribal Council and it backfired. Same with David. He made a big move and it didn't play out. He tried to take out the guy he thought was the big gun and it came back to haunt him. But I loved that he made such a big move so early on. It showed that he came to win. We hated to see him go so soon. He was someone we absolutely loved having on the show and really hoped he would last a long time.<br/><br /><strong>EW: When you have a situation like this with J'Tia ruining 98% of the tribe's rice supply, what do you as producers do? Do you give them a new supply? Because you can't let them actually starve to death out there, can you?</strong>PROBST: The basic philosophy is we do nothing. We want to see them figure it out on their own. There are lots of ideas they could try before we would intervene. But if it got to where they truly had nothing and needed help - we'd give it to them, but it would come at a massive price. ( Survivor fans remember Survivor: The Australian Outback when I took their entire camp in exchange for more rice. Every decision has a consequence.<br/><br /><strong>EW: Okay, great start out of the gate, sir. Now tease us up for next week.</strong> PROBST: There is only one big tease - the Brain tribe has to win the immunity challenge or they are in serious trouble. To lose half your tribe in the first three episodes might be too much for anyone to overcome. Click on the video player below for an exclusive deleted scene from last night's episode involving Garrett and a topless J'Tia, and make sure to read Dalton's recap of the 'Survivor: Cagayan' premiere. Also, for 'Survivor' scoop sent directly to you, follow Dalton on Twitter @DaltonRoss.<br/><br />Post By http://ift.tt/1gEgNix</div>

Hot News: 'Survivor: Cagayan': Jeff Probst weighs in on that crazy premiere

ENTERTAINMENT WEEKLY: Jeff, you know how much I love it when people have to make decisions on the spot, decisions that could dramatically im...

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Hot News: Ryan Kesler And The Penguins?

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><img height="300" src="http://ift.tt/1dF9bu0" width="100%"/><br/><br />Follow me on twitter Follow @GunnerStaal<br/><br />The Penguins used to enter into any contest with a dynamic that no other team in the league could match, the best trio of centers in hockey. It might be about that time to revisit that approach and Ryan Kesler could be the guy to make it happen.<br/><br />Lately there has been trade buzz surrounding the Canucks and Ryan Kesler being dealt. The Canucks are in a weird gray area where they are either going to load up and make one final kick at the can, or start to sell off pieces and start their rebuild a tad early. What they do with Ryan Kesler will most likely be the defining decision the organization makes in regards to the direction of the franchise.<br/><br />Why would the Penguins be interested?<br/><br />Because Ryan Kesler is exactly what they lost in Jordan Staal. Jordan Staal wanted to Pittsburgh to go play with his older brother; there was nothing the Penguins could have done about that.<br/><br />Kesler and Staal are both high level defensive centers. Staal was nominated for a Selke Trophy and Kesler actually won the award in 2011.<br/><br />Offensively they are both very similar as well.<br/><br />That right handed shot the Penguins have been missing on the left side of the power play? Kesler has got it covered.<br/><br />Top PK minutes? Kesler has got it covered.<br/><br />Mike Colligan of The Hockey Writers has recently penned an excellent piece about the Penguins getting back to the 3 center model of year's past. Mike is amongst the best in the business covering the Penguins, you can find his article here .<br/><br />One of the points addressed was how the Penguins would fit Kesler into their salary structure. Mr. Colligan explains that here: My best estimate - with Sutter and Brooks Orpik moving out and Matt Niskanen being retained - puts Shero with around $5 million in flexible spending to apply to an upgrade to the forward group next year. $5 million won't get the Penguins another Crosby, but it still leaves the door open for some pretty significant names at the center ice position<br/><br />Kesler's cap hit? Exactly 5M.<br/><br />Crosby and Malkin are only going to be in their prime once, with the cap rising and the time running out in the next few years it seems right to go back to the formula that brought them their ultimate success. Crosby, Malkin, and Staal only delivered one Cup, but they also only played 24 out of 164 regular season games (15%) together in 2011 and 2012. In the games where all three made an appearance, the Penguins scored an average of 4.05 goals per night. In other games, they only averaged 2.87 goals.<br/><br />This would not be a rental situation; Kesler would be under contract for another two years.<br/><br />Ryan Kesler's hand injury makes things murky as far as him being moved before the trade deadline this year, but it should be something on Ray Shero's mind, if not now, then definitely in the offseason.<br/><br />A side note to mention with any potential Ryan Kesler trade is the fact that he is American. This in no way shape or form affects the on ice product, but the Penguins have been void of a high caliber American forward on the team for quite some time. Kevin Stevens and Joe Mullen come to mind but it has been a while. It's not a big deal at all, but that would be a nice side perk to the deal.<br/><br />Any potential trade for Kesler would more than likely involve Brandon Sutter going the other way. Sutter has shown he is very good defensively but he is not able to carry a line in Pittsburgh. The three center approach the Penguins used to employ had 3 guys who could/can carry a line. Quality centermen are hard to find, serviceable wingers are much easier to find.<br/><br />What else could the Penguins put into a deal? Players like Simon Despres, Derek Pouliot, Beau Bennett, Scott Harrington, Brian Dumoulin and their 1st round pick would be the most likely targets Vancouver would ask about. Other than that the cupboard is pretty bare for the Penguins. Derek Pouliot would be the most attractive piece the Penguins could offer.<br/><br />Olli Maatta being a sure thing for years to come allows Ray Shero to do what he does best, trade a young defenseman for an impact forward. It would be a classic Ray Shero special.<br/><br />I believe the Penguins should aggressively pursue obtaining the services of Ryan Kesler. The Penguins never wanted to part with Jordan Staal. They now have the potential of getting exactly what they lost in Staal with Kesler.<br/><br />The more I think about it the more I love the idea; I hope Ray Shero agrees as well.<br/><br />What do you think?<br/><br />Thanks for reading!<br/><br />Follow me on twitter Follow @GunnerStaal<br/><br />Post By http://ift.tt/1dF9bu2</div>

Hot News: Ryan Kesler And The Penguins?

Follow me on twitter Follow @GunnerStaal The Penguins used to enter into any contest with a dynamic that no other team in the league could m...

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Hot News: Hockey News: Carey Price Injured; Ryan Kesler Trade?

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><img height="300" src="http://ift.tt/1dF9bdv" width="100%"/><br/><br />Letang said he doesn't intend to have surgery on hole in heart. Doctors believe there is a good chance he will play hockey again.<br/><br />- Josh Yohe (@JoshYohe_Trib) February 27, 2014 Pittsburgh's <strong>Kris Letang</strong> met with the media this morning to discuss his condition. Still unsure whether he will play again this season.<br/><br />What does the Letang injury mean for the Penguins in terms of the trade deadline? [ NHL]<br/><br /><strong>Evgeni Malkin</strong> is back from Russia empty handed, and not happy. [ Trib Live]<br/><br />The trouble with Daniel Sedin. [ Globe and Mail]<br/><br />Ryan Kesler got hurt in Sochi, but kept on playing. [ The Province]<br/><br />Not to be outdone by Martin St. Louis' trade request, reports are that Kesler wants out of Vancouver. Truth? [ Pass it to Bulis]<br/><br />As for St. Louis, it seems as though he only wants to go to the Rangers. Or stay with Tampa. [ NESN]<br/><br />The other big name who might be on the move, Ryan Miller, may not actually be on the move after all. [ Toronto Star]<br/><br />So was Carey Price injured before the Olympics, or during? [Canoe]<br/><br />The Habs have recalled Dustin Tokarski from the AHL. [ Habs Eye on the Prize]<br/><br />Tokarski is best remembered for sending Pierre McGuire into a frenzy. [ YouTube]<br/><br />Some more medals to add to Olympic hockey. [ Grantland]<br/><br />Sean Avery is obviously a little bored. [ Dallas Morning News]<br/><br />And finally, look for the Devils to be buyers at the trade deadline. [ Fire and Ice]<br/><br />Post By http://ift.tt/1dF9bdx</div>

Hot News: Hockey News: Carey Price Injured; Ryan Kesler Trade?

Letang said he doesn't intend to have surgery on hole in heart. Doctors believe there is a good chance he will play hockey again. - Josh...

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Hot News: Canucks face tough decision regarding future of Kesler

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><img height="300" src="http://ift.tt/1gYzNuA" width="100%"/>Hockey fans across the country gathered around televisions in bars and office buildings to watch the Canadian men's hockey team eliminate the U.S. in Sochi. Canada will face Sweden in the gold-medal game Sunday. CP Video<br /><h6>Video</h6><br /><div><br /><p><a href='http://ift.tt/1eySdNA' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'><img height="300" src="http://ift.tt/1eEnkXw" width="100%"/> </a> Team USA won a sensational shootout victory in Sochi versus the Russians in the thrilling revival of a classic Olympic hockey rivalry. (Feb. 15) AP Video</p><br /><h6>Video</h6><br /></div><br /><div><br /><p><a href='http://ift.tt/1eySbVJ' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'><img height="300" src="http://ift.tt/1bCF2R0" width="100%"/> </a> Team USA defeats Russia, 3-2, in an overtime thriller, setting the tempo for ice hockey in Sochi. Nathan Frandino reports. Reuters</p><br /><h6>Video</h6><br /></div><br /><p>Then Kesler's agent, Kurt Overhardt, denied it to reporters, and Canucks general manager Mike Gillis didn't answer the question at Rogers Arena, instead saying that the Canucks are fielding calls on numerous scenarios.</p><br /><p>Kesler is a keystone of the Canucks. The question of his injured hand is unanswered. With the Canucks, day to day could actually be much longer. Currently, Vancouver defenceman Chris Tanev has been out a month with a broken thumb.</p><br /><p>Kesler, the 2010-11 Selke Trophy winner, has had a good season, after fighting through several years of hip and shoulder injuries. He leads all Vancouver forwards in ice time and is the only forward at more than 22 minutes a game. Of that, Kesler plays 3:39 on the power play and 2:06 on penalty kill. Under the influence of Coach John Tortorella, Kesler is third on the team in blocked shots with 59. He has 20 goals and 38 points in 60 games and is 12th in faceoffs taken league-wide, winning an impressive 52.5 per cent of them.</p><br /><p>Kesler would immediately bolster teams that are ambitious for the playoffs.</p><br /><p>The Canucks are in a tight situation, standing 10th in the Western Conference, facing a first playoff miss in six years. A Kesler trade could significantly remake the team, possibly sacrificing the short term - in what looks like something of a lost season, unless there's a big winning streak - to bolster the team over the next several years. With Vancouver's management all signed to long term deals, (Gillis is in the first year of a five-year contract, assistant general manager Lauren Gilman also has a number of years on his contract and Tortorella is likewise in the first of five years) a look towards the future is a luxury they can afford.</p><br /><p>A lot of the roster, as well, is in place for several years, starting with the Sedins, who are now signed through 2018 at $7-million apiece a year. Kesler has two years left, $5-million per, and a no-trade clause, so it will be Kesler who decides if he becomes the centre of the story of the deadline.</p><br /><br/><br />Ryan Kesler, with an injured hand, has been thrust into the trade spotlight.<br/><br />If the 29-year-old is available, he would change the dynamic leading up to the National Hockey League trade deadline, next Wednesday at 3 p.m. ET, being likely the best all-around player by far available.<br/><br />On Wednesday night, before the Canucks returned to play at home against the St. Louis Blues, with Kesler out 'day-to-day,' Louis Jean of TVA reported on Twitter that Kesler had requested a trade last fall. Jean also reported that a trade may not happen by the deadline and instead occur by the draft, which is June 27-28 in Philadelphia.<br/><br /><br/><br />Hockey fans across the country gathered around televisions in bars and office buildings to watch the Canadian men's hockey team eliminate the U.S. in Sochi. Canada will face Sweden in the gold-medal game Sunday. CP Video Video<br/><br />Team USA won a sensational shootout victory in Sochi versus the Russians in the thrilling revival of a classic Olympic hockey rivalry. (Feb. 15) AP Video Video<br/><br />Team USA defeats Russia, 3-2, in an overtime thriller, setting the tempo for ice hockey in Sochi. Nathan Frandino reports. Reuters Video<br/><br />Then Kesler's agent, Kurt Overhardt, denied it to reporters, and Canucks general manager Mike Gillis didn't answer the question at Rogers Arena, instead saying that the Canucks are fielding calls on numerous scenarios.<br/><br />Kesler is a keystone of the Canucks. The question of his injured hand is unanswered. With the Canucks, day to day could actually be much longer. Currently, Vancouver defenceman Chris Tanev has been out a month with a broken thumb.<br/><br />Kesler, the 2010-11 Selke Trophy winner, has had a good season, after fighting through several years of hip and shoulder injuries. He leads all Vancouver forwards in ice time and is the only forward at more than 22 minutes a game. Of that, Kesler plays 3:39 on the power play and 2:06 on penalty kill. Under the influence of Coach John Tortorella, Kesler is third on the team in blocked shots with 59. He has 20 goals and 38 points in 60 games and is 12th in faceoffs taken league-wide, winning an impressive 52.5 per cent of them.<br/><br />Kesler would immediately bolster teams that are ambitious for the playoffs.<br/><br />The Canucks are in a tight situation, standing 10th in the Western Conference, facing a first playoff miss in six years. A Kesler trade could significantly remake the team, possibly sacrificing the short term - in what looks like something of a lost season, unless there's a big winning streak - to bolster the team over the next several years. With Vancouver's management all signed to long term deals, (Gillis is in the first year of a five-year contract, assistant general manager Lauren Gilman also has a number of years on his contract and Tortorella is likewise in the first of five years) a look towards the future is a luxury they can afford.<br/><br />A lot of the roster, as well, is in place for several years, starting with the Sedins, who are now signed through 2018 at $7-million apiece a year. Kesler has two years left, $5-million per, and a no-trade clause, so it will be Kesler who decides if he becomes the centre of the story of the deadline.<br/><br />Post By http://ift.tt/1eySbVN</div>

Hot News: Canucks face tough decision regarding future of Kesler

Hockey fans across the country gathered around televisions in bars and office buildings to watch the Canadian men's hockey team eliminat...

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Hot News: UEFA Champions League: Real Madrid CF rout Schalke 6-1 to earn rare win in ...

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><img height="300" src="http://ift.tt/H76Yf2" width="100%"/><br/><br />Real Madrid C.F. are now all but guaranteed a quarter-final place even with the return leg to come in Madrid on March 18 after Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema and Gareth Bale each scored braces.<br/><br /><br/><br />Gelsenkirchen, Germany: Real Madrid cruised to a rare victory on German soil as they romped to a 6-1 win at Schalke 04 in Wednesday's Champions League's last 16, first-leg clash.<br/><br />Real are now all but guaranteed a quarter-final place even with the return leg to come in Madrid on March 18 after Karim Benzema and Gareth Bale both scored braces.Real's Ballon d'Or winner Cristiano Ronaldo also scored twice on his return from a three game suspension to see him take over from Zlatan Ibrahimovic as the competition's top-scorer this season with 11 goals.'The team has played a lot of good games and this is one more,' said Ronaldo.'We played well and didn't allow Schalke to play at their best. We are happy and a step away from the next round.'The Schalke goalkeeper did very well and made good saves, but I believe in my ability and my teammates helped me a lot.'I am very happy to score two goals.'Schalke goalkeeper Ralf Faehrmann admitted his side had been outclassed as Real fired in 21 goal attempts compared to 10 by the hosts.'One save against Ronaldo isn't enough. Real Madrid were a class apart tonight,' said Faehrmann.'When you start conceding goals, it's almost impossible to come back against Real Madrid.'Netherlands striker Klaas-Jan Huntelaar scored a 91st-minute consolation goal for Schalke, but it couldn't prevent the Royal Blues suffering their heaviest defeat in European competition.'You can see the disappointment is etched on our faces, but we will come back from this,' said Schalke captain Benedikt Hoewedes.Carlo Ancelotti's Real are now unbeaten in their last 27 games dating back to October.'After the early goal, we started getting a lot of room, that was the reason for our perfect night,' said the Italian.The huge victory went some way to correcting Real's terrible away record in Germany as they made the Royal Blues of Schalke look anything but regal.This was only Real's second win in 26 visits to Germany after 18 defeats, including their 4-1 drubbing at Borussia Dortmund in last season's Champions League's semi-final.Real needed just 13 minutes to take the lead at the Veltins Arena as their star-studded attack clicked into gear.Bale cut in from the right, the ball came to Ronaldo and his backheel was deflected by a Schalke defender to Benzema and he fired past Faehrmann.Schalke could have equalised almost immediately as teenage midfielder Max Meyer fired over the bar with the goal at his mercy after Iker Casillas had blocked Julian Draxler's shot.Schalke were punished for wasting their rare opportunity and with 21 minutes gone, Bale held off two Schalke defenders to make it 2-0.Schalke's situation was not helped by Ronaldo effortlessly switching with Bale from the left to the right wing midway through the first half, only to revert back after the break.Schalke came out all guns blazing for the second-half as Kevin-Prince Boateng forced Casillas into a save.But Ronaldo finally got on the scoresheet at the fourth attempt to claim his 10th European goal of the season in his sixth Champions League match.He effortlessly turned Cameroon centre-back Joel Matip inside, then out before tucking the ball just inside the far post with 52 minutes gone.Just five minutes later, his deft backheel fell into Benzema's path for the Frenchman to drill home his second of the night and Real's fourth.It was one-way traffic by now and Bale scored his second and Real's fifth when Sergio Ramos's through ball was driven low into the bottom left-hand corner on 69 minutes.Ronaldo then grabbed his second on 89 minutes to leave him with 36 goals in 33 games for Real this season before Huntelaar finally put Schalke on the board just before the final whistle.<br/><br />Post By http://ift.tt/1kbt57J</div>

Hot News: UEFA Champions League: Real Madrid CF rout Schalke 6-1 to earn rare win in ...

Real Madrid C.F. are now all but guaranteed a quarter-final place even with the return leg to come in Madrid on March 18 after Cristiano Ron...

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Hot News: Loretta Saunders homicide sparks call by native group for public inquiry

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><img height="300" src="http://ift.tt/1cSizxp" width="100%"/><br/><br />The slaying of Loretta Saunders should trigger a national inquiry into the hundreds of murdered and missing aboriginal women in Canada, the president of the Nova Scotia Native Women's Association says.<br/><br />Cheryl Maloney spoke hours after police found the body of Saunders off a New Brunswick highway. Police are treating her death as a homicide.<br/><br />'I'm never going to let Stephen Harper or Canadians forget about Loretta and all the other missing or murdered aboriginal people,' Maloney said.<br/><br />'There's something wrong in Canada if aboriginal people have to live this fate.'<br/><br />Saunders, an Inuk woman from Newfoundland and Labrador, was doing her master's thesis at Halifax's Saint Mary's University on missing and murdered aboriginal women. 'Every aboriginal girl in this country is vulnerable. For Canada to be ignoring it for so long, it's disheartening.' <cite>-Cheryl Maloney, Nova Scotia Native Women's Association</cite><br/><br />Maloney said aboriginal Canadian women are five times more likely to be violently attacked than non-aboriginal women.<br/><br />Aboriginal men also face higher risks of violence than non-aboriginal men, she said.<br/><br />A researcher has found 800 cases of missing or murdered Canadian aboriginal women.<br/><br />Maloney said the 'bright, smart' student didn't fit stereotypes.<br/><br />'She wasn't what society expected for a missing aboriginal girl. Canadian society, and especially our prime minister, has been able to ignore the reality of the statistics that are against aboriginal girls,' Maloney said.<br/><br />'This is not what everyone expects, but she is at risk. Every aboriginal girl in this country is vulnerable. For Canada to be ignoring it for so long, it's disheartening. How many more families does this have to happen to before they take seriously the problem?'<br/><br />Saunders was studying the murders of three Nova Scotia aboriginal women:<br/><br />Maloney, surrounded by women who had volunteered to help search for Saunders, thanked Halifax for rallying to her side. People 'fell in love with this girl'<br/><br />'Loretta became something not just to us, the volunteers, but to the city, the province, the public. People really stepped up and they fell in love with this girl,' she said.<br/><br />Saunders, 26, was reported missing to police by her family. She was last seen in the Cowie Hill Road area in Halifax on the morning of Feb. 13. Five days later, her car was located in Harrow, Ont.<br/><br />Officers found her body Wednesday afternoon on the median of Route 2 of the Trans-Canada Highway, west of Salisbury, N.B. Forensic investigators from both Halifax police and RCMP in New Brunswick retrieved her remains. Murder charges expected<br/><br />Blake Leggette, 25, and Victoria Henneberry, 28, are currently incarcerated in Halifax. They were Saunders' roommates. Each is facing a charge of theft of a motor vehicle.<br/><br />'Investigators have identified suspects in this homicide and they are not looking for anyone else,' said Const. Pierre Bourdages. 'This homicide investigation is ongoing and charges are anticipated.'<br/><br />Bourdages said more than one person will face murder charges and that they would be laid 'as soon as possible.'<br/><br />Henneberry is due in court Thursday and Leggette is due in court Friday. Both are facing charges relating to the theft of Saunders' car.<br/><br />'At this time, that's the only charge they're facing,' Bourdages said.<br/><br />Post By http://ift.tt/1coPd6B</div>

Hot News: Loretta Saunders homicide sparks call by native group for public inquiry

The slaying of Loretta Saunders should trigger a national inquiry into the hundreds of murdered and missing aboriginal women in Canada, the ...

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Hot News: Acadian chanteuse Angèle Arsenault dies at age 70

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><img height="300" src="http://ift.tt/1fJzKT5" width="100%"/><br/><br /><br/><br />Internationally renowned Acadian singer Angèle Arsenault has died.<br/><br />One of Prince Edward Island's best-known Acadian singer-songwriters, Angèle Arsenault, died in Quebec Tuesday at the age of 70.<br/><br />The eighth child in Arthur and Joséphine Arsenault's family of 14 children, Angèle Arsenault's childhood was filled with music and song and dance. Just about everyone in the household played at least one musical instrument and they often performed at house parties together.<br/><br />Her first confirmation as a gifted singer came at age 14 when she won a televised singing contest in Charlottetown. Her career as a folk singer started while attending university in Moncton in 1963 and really started to soar in the early 1970s after she moved to Quebec. She was also active as a television host and she won a Gold Hugo Award from the Chicago International Film Festival in 1974 for her educational program, Avec Angèle. She was in several films for the National Film Board of Canada.<br/><br />'She was very eclectic on stage. She could grab all the audience's attention; she was very, very good at that, to communicate,' said her sister, Marie Anne Arsenault of Mont Carmel, who attended many of her performances. 'She was an excellent communicator.'<br/><br />She toured across Canada and internationally and performed several times at the Acadian Festival in the community where she was born. Last summer she had all of her family on stage with her for the festival's closing show.<br/><br />More recently, she translated to French the lyrics for the P.E.I. 2014 celebration song, Forever Strong, and was part of a travelling show promoting the province's 2014 celebrations across Canada.<br/><br />For much of her career she was based out of Montreal, but she moved home to P.E.I. in 1996 to care for her mother. She returned to Quebec in 2012 and, although her family knew she was in ailing health, her death on Tuesday came as a shock. She would not have wanted her brothers and sisters to worry about her, said Marie Anne.<br/><br />P.E.I. premier Robert Ghiz issued a statement Wednesday extending sympathy on the passing of Angèle Arsenault to her family and friends.<br/><br />'Angèle was an incredible talent that left an indelible mark on Prince Edward Island, and especially on the Island's Acadian and Francophone community,' said the premiere.<br/><br />Throughout her distinguished career she was well thought of as a musical and Acadian ambassador for Prince Edward Island. She was named in 1997 to the Ordre de la Pléiade de l'Association des parlementaires de langue française, recognizing her work in the promotion of the French language and culture, and she received an honorary doctorate from UPEI in 1999. She was named Zonta International's Woman of the Year in 2000, was named to the Order of Canada in 2003 and to the Order of Prince Edward Island in 2005.<br/><br />'She was such a good person,' said her sister, Marie Anne Arsenault; 'a heart of gold.'<br/><br />Funeral arrangements are still being finalized, but Marie Anne said a memorial service will likely be held in P.E.I. this spring.<br/><br />Post By http://ift.tt/1dC3Gwa</div>

Hot News: Acadian chanteuse Angèle Arsenault dies at age 70

Internationally renowned Acadian singer Angèle Arsenault has died. One of Prince Edward Island's best-known Acadian singer-songwriters, ...

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Hot News: American Idol gets Google and Facebook to add functionality for online voting

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><img height="300" src="http://ift.tt/1dC3Eo0" width="100%"/><br/><br />American Idol is giving you more ways to vote and interact with the show! A simple search on Google.com using the keywords: 'american idol' OR even 'idol' will give you the opportunity to vote for your favorite contestant! Of course, this can only be done once Ryan Seacrest says that you can vote. The Google Search apps for Android and iOS (iPhone, iPad) also carry the same ability to vote by searching 'american idol' OR even 'idol'.<br/><br />Facebook will give updates on the on-air voting process based on real-time East Coast voting data.<br/><br />Read more in the press release below:<br/><br />Digital Giants Facebook and Google Partner with AMERICAN IDOL XIII To Launch Powerful New Interactive On-Air and Online Experiences<br/><br />AMERICAN IDOL XIII Auditions Continue Wednesday, January 29, and Thursday, January 30, on FOX<br/><br />FremantleMedia, 19 Entertainment/CORE Media Group and FOX today announced groundbreaking partnerships with search powerhouse Google and online social networking giant Facebook, designed to give fans powerful new interactive on-air and online experiences with AMERICAN IDOL XIII live shows.<br/><br />For the first time in television, Google is powering an online voting platform that allows fans to cast votes for their favorite AMERICAN IDOL XIII finalists directly from Google Search. In addition, Facebook will support visual, on-air voting progress updates based on real-time East Coast voting data during select live shows, giving at-home AMERICAN IDOL XIII viewers their first-ever look at how their favorite finalists are faring in the voting polls at a given time.<br/><br />'Throughout the previous 12 seasons, AMERICAN IDOL has always been a pioneer in interactive and voting innovation,' said David Luner, President, Brand Partnerships & Franchise Management, FremantleMedia North America. 'Partnering with both Google and Facebook, two of the biggest names in technology and social media, demonstrates how the show is once again creating a global first, connecting with fans unlike any other entertainment brand in the world.'<br/><br />'This season of AMERICAN IDOL is all about re-connecting fans with what they love most about the show - the journey of the contestants from hopefuls to stardom,' said Bill Bradford, SVP Digital, Fox Broadcasting Company. 'With the help of innovators like Google and Facebook, this season, we're deepening that connection by making it easy for fans to make a bigger impact and be a bigger part of the show than ever before.'<br/><br />'We've partnered with AMERICAN IDOL to make it easy and convenient for fans to vote for their favorite IDOL performers using Google Search - whether they're on their computers, phones or tablets,' said Anjali Joshi, VP, Product Management, Google Search. 'People come to Google to find information, and we're excited to now also power their voting experience.'<br/><br />'Integrating content from Facebook into AMERICAN IDOL's live broadcast brings a new dimension to the viewing experience and enhances the connection fans have with the show and its contestants. With nearly 11 million fans of AMERICAN IDOL on Facebook, and all of the conversations people are already having on Facebook around live television events, there is an endless amount of creative potential through our partnership. We're very much looking forward to seeing that creativity come to life on and off Facebook throughout this season,' said Justin Osofsky, VP of Media Partnerships and Global Operations, Facebook.<br/><br />Beginning with the first finalist performance show on Wednesday, Feb. 26 (8:00-10:00 PM ET live/PT tape delayed), fans will be able to vote via Google when the IDOL vote window opens at the top of the show - and every live performance show thereafter - by searching for IDOL-related terms. Any of these searches will reveal a voting platform where fans can cast their votes for their favorite performers. After casting their votes, fans will have the opportunity to share their votes on Google+, follow contestants, join community conversations or participate in Google Hangouts about the show. With the addition of Google, AMERICAN IDOL XIII now offers viewers an unprecedented five ways to vote: 1) Google Search; 2) online at AmericanIdol.com; 3) AMERICAN IDOL App; 4) text messaging; and 5) toll-free calling. All five methods of voting are managed and certified by Telescope, Inc., an independent vote management company.<br/><br />On air, AMERICAN IDOL XIII and Facebook are collaborating to provide a groundbreaking, real-time view of East Coast voting trends and create a two-way connection with fans during the live performance shows. The innovation will allow at-home viewers to get a first-ever look at an exciting array of voting information, such as demographic voting trends and relative contestant rankings - as it happens live! In addition, as voters and supporters of the AMERICAN IDOL XIII hopefuls chime in and back their favorite performer, they will have an opportunity to become part of the show - and see their actual Facebook profile picture featured in the telecast.<br/><br />AMERICAN IDOL XIII is produced by FremantleMedia North America and 19 Entertainment, a division of CORE Media Group. The series was created by Simon Fuller and is executive produced by Simon Fuller, Cecile Frot-Coutaz, Trish Kinane, Per Blankens, Jesse Ignjatovic and Evan Prager. Louis J. Horvitz is director and Rickey Minor is musical director. 'Like' AMERICAN IDOL on Facebook at http://ift.tt/1ntbCY3. Follow the series on Twitter @AmericanIdol and join the discussion using #idol. See photos and videos on Instagram by following @AmericanIdol. Download the AMERICAN IDOL app for iOS devices from the App StoreSM; and for Android devices at Google PlayTM Store.** Data rates may apply for app download and usage.<br/><br />Post By http://ift.tt/1dC3Eo2</div>

Hot News: American Idol gets Google and Facebook to add functionality for online voting

American Idol is giving you more ways to vote and interact with the show! A simple search on Google.com using the keywords: 'american id...

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Hot News: Royal Bank of Canada hikes dividend as solid, 'not standout', earnings beat Street

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><img height="300" src="http://ift.tt/1fJ2USg" width="100%"/><img height="300" src="http://ift.tt/1dBq1Kk" width="100%"/><br/><br />TORONTO - Royal Bank of Canada said on Wednesday its first-quarter profit rose 2% due largely to higher capital markets income and raised its dividend by 6%.<br/><br />Canada's largest bank said it earned $ 2.09 billion, or $1.38 a share, in the fiscal first quarter ended Jan. 31. That compared with a profit of $2.05 billion, or $1.34 a share, a year earlier.<br/><br />© Thomson Reuters 2014<br/><br />Post By http://ift.tt/1fJ2USm</div>

Hot News: Royal Bank of Canada hikes dividend as solid, 'not standout', earnings beat Street

TORONTO - Royal Bank of Canada said on Wednesday its first-quarter profit rose 2% due largely to higher capital markets income and raised it...

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Hot News: Katy Perry enrages Muslims with 'blasphemous' music video

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><img height="300" src="http://ift.tt/1dBq48V" width="100%"/><br/><br />Whether she intended to or not, Katy Perry has many Muslims in an uproar with her newest music video.<br/><br />As reported in The Independent, the American pop star's video for the single Dark Horse has sparked an online petition demanding the song be pulled from YouTube.<br/><br />So far, more than 50,000 Muslims from all over the world have signed the petition demanding the song be removed because of a scene in which a man wearing an Islamic necklace inscribed with the word 'Allah' (the Islamic word for God) is scorched by lightning shooting from Perry's fingertips.<br/><br /><br/><br />Video<br/><br />Video<br/><br />Reuters Video<br/><br />The petition on Change.org was initiated by British native Shazad Iqbal, who said that the burning of the pendant was 'blasphemous.'<br/><br />In his preface to the petition, Iqbal writes, 'Such goes to show, that blasphemy is clearly conveyed in the video, since Katy Perry (who appears to be representing an opposition of God) engulfs the believer and the word God in flames.'<br/><br />Iqbal adds: 'Using the name of God is an irrelevant and distasteful manner would be considered inappropriate by any religion.'<br/><br />Although most of the signatures to date on the petition have hailed from the U.K., citizens of other Muslim countries including Pakistan and Saudi Arabia have entered the fray.<br/><br />South African native Faeezah Shaik posted the comment: 'Artists should consider the impact their 'art' would have on society and not just go ahead and do things for the sake of being controversial.'<br/><br />Even more to the point was the comment from Birmingham, England resident Bilal Khan: 'Music should be about spreading love not hate.'<br/><br />In the big-budget Dark Horse video, which has more than 30 million views on YouTube, Perry pole-dances with bodyguards wearing giant cat heads and climbs atop a replica of an Egyptian pyramid.<br/><br />Perry grew up in a devoutly Christian home - both her mother and father were Pentecostal ministers - and began her career singing gospel music before switching to pop.<br/><br />In a recent interview with Marie Claire magazine, Perry claimed she currently has no connection with religion or an 'old man sitting on a throne,' yet still holds 'a deep connection with God.'<br/><br />And the current contretemps isn't the first time the 29-year-old singer has courted controversy.<br/><br />Wasn't it just last November that Perry was labelled a racist for her decision to dress like a Japanese geisha to perform her song Unconditionally at the American Music Awards?<br/><br />Of course, sometimes the public forgets that Perry launched her career with the saucy 2008 anthem I Kissed a Girl. And why, just last weekend, Perry kissed a girl - Miley Cyrus, no less.<br/><br />Katy Perry is one pop star who knows how to keep her name in the news.<br/><br />Post By http://ift.tt/1fJ2StA</div>

Hot News: Katy Perry enrages Muslims with 'blasphemous' music video

Whether she intended to or not, Katy Perry has many Muslims in an uproar with her newest music video. As reported in The Independent, the Am...

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Hot News: Watch: New Full-Length 'Godzilla' Trailer Rises Out Of The Ocean

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><img height="300" src="http://ift.tt/ODInFi" width="100%"/><br/><br />'The great thing with a project like ' Godzilla' is that when you're doing a movie like this that involves a monster that's so beloved, you suddenly get access to the greatest visual artists out there working today. So I was very lucky in terms of that,' director Gareth Edwards told Bloody Disgusting last summer. '...in terms of designing 'Godzilla,' we spent about an entire year just working on that aspect alone. You never quite feel like you have enough time but I wouldn't change a single thing with the design. I'm so incredibly happy with it.'<br/><br />And that's not all he has to be happy with. He's got a much better cast than this kind of thing usually gets, with Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Elizabeth Olsen, Bryan Cranston, David Strathairn, Ken Watanabe, Juliette Binoche and Sally Hawkins all featuring, but moreover, this just looks very promising. The first trailer was pretty damn solid, and this new one-well, we'll let you tell us what you think below.<br/><br />'Godzilla' rises from the deep on May 16th. Watch below.<br/><br />Post By http://ift.tt/1huBBK4</div>

Hot News: Watch: New Full-Length 'Godzilla' Trailer Rises Out Of The Ocean

'The great thing with a project like ' Godzilla' is that when you're doing a movie like this that involves a monster that...

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