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Hot News: In Line for Spot on Ryder Cup Team, Dustin Johnson Takes a Leave

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><img height="300" src="http://static01.nyt.com/images/2014/08/01/sports/CITY-JOHNSON/CITY-JOHNSON-master675.jpg" width="100%"/> AKRON, Ohio - Dustin Johnson, who won his first start of the PGA Tour's wraparound season and was poised to compete for the United States in the Ryder Cup, is out of the game for the foreseeable future. In a statement released Thursday by his management company, Johnson said he was taking a leave of absence from professional golf 'to seek professional help for personal challenges I have faced.' Johnson, 30, withdrew earlier in the week from the World Golf Championships at Firestone Country Club. His agent, David Winkle of Dallas-based Hambric Sports Management, informed Ted Bishop, president of the P.G.A. of America, that Johnson would not participate in next week's P.G.A. Championship, the year's final major, or the Ryder Cup in Gleneagles, Scotland. With two events remaining until the top nine spots are finalized for the Ryder Cup, Johnson was fifth in the points standings. In his absence, Patrick Reed, who is 10th, will now occupy the final spot. Before Johnson's statement was released, Reed carded a three-under-par 67 in the opening round of the Bridgestone Invitational here. Without divulging the root of his distress, Johnson, an eight-time PGA Tour winner, said, 'By committing the time and resources necessary to improve my mental health, physical well-being and emotional foundation, I am confident that I will be better equipped to fulfill my potential and become a consistent champion.' It is the second time in three years that Johnson has been off the tour for an extended length of time. He missed nearly three months in the spring of 2012, ascribing his absence to injuries sustained in a Jet Ski accident. 'I knew he withdrew this week, but definitely shocked,' said Rickie Fowler, who described Johnson as one of his best friends on the tour. 'I haven't been in touch with him,' Fowler added. 'So hopefully, he can get everything straightened out.' Did a broken engagement with his fiancée, Paulina Gretzky, precipitate his latest leave? Is Johnson's indefinite departure voluntary, or was he suspended by the PGA Tour? Because the tour does not make fines or suspensions public, speculation filled the information vacuum. 'We have nothing to add to Dustin's statement,' the tour said in a news release, 'but we wish him well and look forward to his return to the PGA Tour in the future.' Post By http://www.nytimes.com/2014/08/01/sports/golf/in-line-for-ryder-cup-spot-dustin-johnson-takes-leave-.html</div>

Hot News: In Line for Spot on Ryder Cup Team, Dustin Johnson Takes a Leave

AKRON, Ohio - Dustin Johnson, who won his first start of the PGA Tour's wraparound season and was poised to compete for the United State...

11:48 PM

Hot News: 'Sharknado 2' becomes Syfy's most watched original movie

Hot News: 'Sharknado 2' becomes Syfy's most watched original movie

Sharknadoes might not be good for humankind, but they're definitely good for ratings: 3.9 million viewers tuned in to Syfy Wednesday nig...

11:48 PM

Hot News: Burlington Skyway crash: Driver to be charged with impaired driving

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><img height="300" src="http://i.cbc.ca/1.2724384.1406840744!/fileImage/httpImage/image.jpg-large_gen/derivatives/original_300/traffic.jpg-large" width="100%"/> The driver of a large truck that crashed into and damaged the Burlington Skyway will be charged with impaired driving, according to the Ontario Provincial Police. The Toronto-bound lanes of the bridge will be closed for 'some time,' police say, after the truck hit the superstructure Thursday afternoon. Police have no estimate of how long the lanes will be closed, but Burlington Mayor Rick Goldring tweeted that the damage may mean the highway is closed for days. The damage has caused gridlock in and around Hamilton, with multiple reports on social media saying cars detouring away from the Skyway have blocked traffic on the Red Hill Valley Parkway, Eastport Drive, Cannon Street and Mud Road, as well as other city streets. 'This will be a significant closure' <cite>- Kerry Schmidt, OPP</cite> Concerns about the extent of the damage have also stopped shipping into and out of Hamilton harbour. An extended closure would affect holiday travellers for the upcoming Civic Holiday weekend and also traffic heading to Toronto for this weekend's Caribbean Carnival. Police, fire and the Ministry of Transportation have all responded to the collision, which has closed all Toronto-bound lanes, said Ontario Provincial Police Const. Julia McCuaig. The driver received minor injuries. The heavily travelled Skyway spans the western-most tip of Lake Ontario, connecting Burlington on the north side with Hamilton and the Niagara region. The lanes bound for the latter remain open. Traffic signals in Burlington have been changed to help improve the flow of traffic around the Skyway, the city said via Twitter. The police, meanwhile, are waiting for a structural engineer to assess the damage to the Skyway. OPP spokesman Kerry Schmidt, who was at the site Thursday, said a dump truck drove across the bridge with its bed raised, hitting the scaffolding and causing ironwork to break and bend on the bridge structure, which was undergoing scheduled maintenance. 'This will be a significant closure,' Schmidt said. 'The superstructure above the deck is damaged.' Motorists tried to warn driver Witnesses described seeing the truck head up the bridge with its bed up while motorists tried to warn the driver by honking their horns, but to no avail. 'The guy kept going, he was actually going faster' <cite>- Witness Robert Grimme</cite> 'He drove straight into the structure and all the scaffolding on top of the bridge,' said Jay Bell of Huntsville, Ont. 'The construction workers up there, they all started coming down the steps of the scaffolding really fast. I've never seen anyone move that fast on scaffolding before. It was just crazy. They jumped from the scaffolding onto the steel structure of the bridge.' The driver did not slow down, though the honking appeared to warn the construction workers of the danger, said witness Robert Grimme. 'The guy kept going, he was actually going faster,' said Grimme. 'I couldn't believe what I was seeing.' The resulting gridlock has marooned some of GO Transit's Route 12 Burlington-bound buses and detoured others. . Anne Marie Aikins from GO Transit advised checking the agency's website for the latest information. 'We are asking people to take the train instead if possible,' she said. 'Any buses that hadn't gotten on the highway yet can be detoured.' GO Transit estimates the delays could be up to an hour. It says for the rest of the evening, all bus and train connections will be made at its Aldershot station, rather than at its station in Burlington. Rte 12 #GObus psngrs; effects of the Burlington Skyway closure to continue for the reminder of the evening. See link http://t.co/LDlSJInv9a.- GO Transit (@GOtransit) July 31, 2014 Shipping affected On the water below, the canal under the bridge has been closed as a precaution, said the Hamilton Port Authority. 'In the interest of safety, the canal is closed to shipping traffic pending [the ministry's] assessment of the damage to the Skyway bridge above.' said Larissa Fenn, a spokeswoman for the authority. Three vessels are due to arrive in the harbour Thursday night, according to its website. It's unclear if any of the ore-carrying lakers will be able to enter the Hamilton port. Officers are still investigating how the collision happened, McCuaig said. Traffic is being redirected onto Lakeshore Road. The Fort Erie-bound lanes are open. The police say that just after 3:30 p.m., they received a call from a dump truck driver that the truck had struck scaffolding. The dump truck bed appeared to be extended, McCuaig said, but it's not clear if the truck was part of the job site there. Workers in the area are safe, and emergency officials are trying to figure out how to get the vehicle out without damaging the scaffolding and structure further. The province is in the midst of a $20-million construction project on the Skyway. Workers are on the second phase of applying anti-corrosive coating to the steel, which should be finished by fall 2016. Pic of Burlington #Skyway incident with Dump truck. That truck driver better have his license revoked. pic.twitter.com/PG9NBrpzwp- @vandernate ALL TORONTO BOUND LANES CLOSED ON QEW AT BURLINGTON SKYWAY pic.twitter.com/YV6yvWlvEO- @satansux Post By http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/hamilton/news/burlington-skyway-crash-driver-to-be-charged-with-impaired-driving-1.2724276</div>

Hot News: Burlington Skyway crash: Driver to be charged with impaired driving

The driver of a large truck that crashed into and damaged the Burlington Skyway will be charged with impaired driving, according to the Onta...

8:36 PM

Hot News: Orlando Bloom's Very Personal Revenge On Miranda Kerr Revealed

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><img height="300" src="http://pmchollywoodlife.files.wordpress.com/2014/07/orlando-bloom-with-erica-packer-inset-miranda-kerr-and-james-packer-lead-1.jpg?w=600" width="100%"/>This has turned into more than just a love triangle, it's a love pentagon! Not only did Orlando seemingly defend his estranged wife's honor, July 30, when trying to punch Justin while in Ibiza. But he is actually on his tropical vacation with Erica Packer, the estranged wife of Miranda's alleged lover! Things are getting complicated! If Orlando Bloom still has strong feelings for his estranged wife, Miranda Kerr, then why is he hanging out with Erica Packer? This beautiful brunette was spotted hanging out with Orlando, just hours before he attacked Justin Bieber at Cipriani. Orlando Bloom's Very Personal Revenge On Miranda Kerr It seems Orlando, 37, wants to get back at Miranda for allegedly cheating on him with Justin. Not only did he attempt to punch Justin, 21, in the face, for allegedly making a rude comment about Miranda, 31, but Orlando has made a very pointed attempt at trying to hurt Miranda. Orlando was spotted hanging out in Ibiza with Erica, who was married to a famous billionaire James Packer. James and Erica separated in September 2013, just one month before Orlando and Miranda split in October. Just a few months later, according to TMZ, Miranda and James were rumored to be dating. So why on earth would Orlando want to hang out with Erica, if she's the ex of a guy who is hooking up with his estranged wife? Pretty bizarre and complicated if you ask us! Take Our Poll Miranda Kerr 'Embarrassed' Over Justin & Orlando Fight It turns out that the former VS model isn't too happy about all the drama with Justin and Orlando! '[Miranda] is in Spain and Europe now and is vacationing with the family and relaxing,' a source tells E!. 'Miranda wants all of this behind her and she just wants to move on from this and go about her life. She is very embarrassed about everything that has gone on.' We can totally see why she would be! HollywoodLifers, do you think that Orlando is trying to get back at Miranda? - Chloe Melas More Orlando Bloom & Justin Bieber News: Justin Bieber Taunted Orlando Bloom After Fight: 'Say Hi To Miranda For Me' Miranda Kerr Never Hooked Up With Justin Bieber, Lawyer Says Justin Bieber & Orlando Bloom's Feud: 5 Things To Know About The Love Square Post By http://hollywoodlife.com/2014/07/31/orlando-bloom-miranda-kerr-erica-packer-james-packer-love-triangle/</div>

Hot News: Orlando Bloom's Very Personal Revenge On Miranda Kerr Revealed

This has turned into more than just a love triangle, it's a love pentagon! Not only did Orlando seemingly defend his estranged wife'...

5:37 PM

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Best Olympus TG 3 Waterproof Digital Camera

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3:19 PM

Hot News: Taradise Lost: Tara Reid's Sharknado Comeback

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><img height="300" src="http://timedotcom.files.wordpress.com/2014/07/nup_163105_0415.jpg?w=280" width="100%"/>The Sharknado star and notorious party girl gets older, and wiser - maybe Tara Reid did not expect Sharknado to be her big comeback, but she's learned better than to try to predict when opportunity will knock. She is 38 years old now and she has, as she often says, been working her entire life. Though she is lean and striking, there's something a little bit brittle about her. She's gone crinkly at the eyes, but her teeth are still gleaming, movie-star white. She believes that her time is coming back around - or, at least, she hopes so. 'I think people are saying, 'This girl has lasting power. She's been in this business since she was 6 years old,'' Reid says. 'I've done over 45 movies. Regardless if they're A movies, B movies, C movies, D movies. I always stay working. I love what I do.' A beat. 'Would I love to be doing it with Brad Pitt?' she asks. 'Yes. Who wouldn't? Maybe one day I'll be lucky enough for that to happen, but if it doesn't, I'm still doing the job I love, and I still make a good living.' It's March, and we're in a midtown Manhattan hotel, where she orders tea and sits cross-legged on a sofa. She is in production on a new film, Sharknado 2: The Second One, the sequel to the 2013 B-movie about, as the title suggests, a freak tornado carrying man-eating sharks that ravages Los Angeles. The first Sharknado became an unexpected viral hit and instant camp classic, creating a self-conscious media furor; it was Reid's first buzzy role after nearly a decade of straight-to-video horror flicks and bawdy comedies. (Her lone major-studio release in recent years was 2012's American Reunion, the fourth American Pie film, which saw her reprising her role from the original sex comedy that helped make her a star.) But the success of Sharknado has given her a new sense of purpose, and she is excited for the world to see the second installment, which takes place in New York and, she says, is even more entertaining than the first. ' Sharknado was a fun, silly movie that we made - we knew it was ridiculous. The second one is still ridiculous. But this one has a heart,' she says earnestly. 'It's not like I did Titanic, or I'm up for an Academy Award. In that way, it did nothing for my career. It certainly showed the popularity in the fans that I have. Throughout the years I've lost the credibility of how much I did have, with things that weren't always in my favor.' She's talking about her reputation as a party girl in the tabloids, which precedes even the TMZ era. 'I was the first one,' she says. 'I was before Paris Hilton, before Lindsay Lohan. I'm the oldest one, and I started selling their magazines. They still want to make me that. The magazines aren't even letting me grow up, and that's what's hurting me with the character roles. They need to let me be the woman I am now, not the girl. There's a big difference.' But her public persona is indelible now, after so many years of being trailed by the paparazzi. At the peak of her popularity, riding her sex symbol status in the wake of a string of successful films (most notably, American Pie, but also Cruel Intentions and Josie and the Pussycats), Reid was at every event, every nightclub, alongside the turn-of-the-millennium celebutantes who grabbed headlines every time they stepped outside. A withering 2003 profile of Paris Hilton in Rolling Stone featured Tara Reid as a peripheral cast member, partying with Hilton at a Los Angeles nightclub. ( Reid is shrieking into her phone: 'Tell him if he doesn't get here in five minutes, I'm going to fuck him up personally!') Reid used her party-girl image to snag an E! reality show called Taradise, which followed her around the world as she visited global party spots, drinking to excess with the locals. 'If I was staying home and I'm not gonna get the meetings anyway, then what's gonna happen?' Reid says of her past. 'You feel like you're in jail. You're not going to get the parts. You're trying to be on your best behavior and no one respects it. So you might as well just travel the world, meet new people, have fun. I can get hit by a bus, or fall on ice and die. At least I can say I've lived a really full life. I could have changed a couple things, but that's part of growing up. You don't learn if you don't make mistakes. And I've made many mistakes.' By 2006, the tides had turned. Taradise had been canceled. The state of affairs back then is summed up nicely by a paparazzi video from 2006 that shows Reid waiting in line to enter the Hollywood hotspot Hyde, being told the club is at capacity. Moments later, Paris Hilton - gazelle-like, her Chanel necklace glinting - enters the club, a pre-contouring Kim Kardashian in tow. Hilton shoots Reid a haughty smile, and Kardashian sucks her teeth as they breeze past her. But Reid keeps waiting, anxiously toying with her T-Mobile Sidekick, fuming and fidgety. Nearly a decade later, while Kardashian and Hilton never entirely transcended their dubious origins, they're both still wildly successful businesswomen - Kardashian can snag the cover of Vogue, while Hilton is the face of a global empire that includes everything from fragrances to hotels - whereas Reid never managed to evolve fully, feeding the headlines with a string of public mishaps. There was that most infamous wardrobe malfunction, which left her standing on a red carpet with her left entire breast exposed, grinning obliviously. A series of low-budget films followed. There were more public embarrassments still: an incident in Saint-Tropez when she stumbled into a parked motorbike and knocked it over; an accidental shopping-cart theft; an impenetrably strange friendship with the British twin-brother pop duo Jedward; photos of botched plastic surgery; a Twitter persona that must be seen to be believed. But when asked about all of this, she demurs. Though the evidence is damning, in fairness, it is true that unlike Lindsay Lohan, Reid's nocturnal activities never seem to have interfered with her ability to behave professionally on set - but rather, to get credible work in the first place. 'I feel like a cartoon,' Reid says. 'Because that's what sells. Let's write a bad story about Tara. Let's show her drunk. Let's show a party girl. Let's show the worst situations. They see me on the red carpet looking beautiful, they see me at charities looking great, they see me doing stuff all the time - but it's never written about. They still talk about stories from 10 years ago, my dress falling down or something ridiculous.' She looks pained. 'That's so old. It's not even funny. Stop. Why are you still talking about that? So many girls have made so many more mistakes. I never got in trouble. I never got a DUI. I've never been to jail. And yet I'm the bad girl?' 'Over the years, I've built a reputation that isn't what a movie star is supposed to be like - the way the American media portrays it,' she continues. 'They made a character of me that's not even true. There's a whole side of me that no one gets. No one knows that side about me, but nobody wants to know that side of me. Even if they do know about it, no one wants to write about it. So I'm lucky that I'm doing Sharknado right now. Do I know I have the capacity of doing more? Of course. But will I get the chance? It's not up to me. It's someone that's gonna believe in me and say yes.' In fact, talking to her in person, it's not hard to imagine Reid tackling the types of character roles that often go to actresses like Melissa Leo and Dale Dickey - tough, weathered women, down on their luck. 'It's not that I can't do them,' she says of more serious movies. 'The studio says no. If I got the opportunity to do them, I can deliver.' And as fun as it is to be in a movie like Sharknado, she insists she's ready for a real challenge. 'Right now, I'm not getting chances like that. Which is unfortunate.' She sighs. 'Actresses can't hire themselves.' Post By http://time.com/3056050/tara-reid-sharknado-2/</div>

Hot News: Taradise Lost: Tara Reid's Sharknado Comeback

The Sharknado star and notorious party girl gets older, and wiser - maybe Tara Reid did not expect Sharknado to be her big comeback, but sh...

2:42 PM

Hot News: Osheaga hopes better sound quality will cut noise pollution

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><img height="300" src="http://i.cbc.ca/1.2601380.1396899869!/fileImage/httpImage/image.jpg_gen/derivatives/original_300/lorde.jpg" width="100%"/> Osheaga organizers have taken some last-minute measures to control the sound emanating from the music festival taking place this weekend on l'île Notre-Dame. The city of Saint-Lambert had threatened to sue the city of Montreal and the Ville-Marie borough if the decibel levels from the festival were too high. Festival director Jacques Aubé told Radio-Canada that organizers have spent $150,000 on measures to better control the sound. 'We invested in...technology to improve the quality of the sound at the site,' he said. Those measures will help ensure too much residual noise doesn't leave the venue, he added. People living in Saint-Lambert, located just across the river from Parc Jean Drapeau, said they're fed up with the noise and have likened the situation to having a noisy neighbour who holds wild parties every weekend throughout the summer. In addition to Osheaga, several other music festivals, including Heavy MTL and the Vans Warped Tour, take place in the park. In March, Saint-Lambert city council voted unanimously to ask Montreal's downtown borough of Ville-Marie - which is responsible for Parc Jean-Drapeau - to turn down the volume from the 60-decibel limit to 50 decibels. But rather than lower the sound limit, the Ville-Marie borough voted to do away with the limit altogether. Saint-Lambert's city council said it is ready to take Montreal to court if the noise continues. Councillor Hugues Létourneau said he expects they will collect more proof of the noise pollution this weekend. 'We installed a device to measure the noise on the rooftop of a home,' he said. Létourneau said he believes that Montreal and Ville-Marie have the power to force event organizers to lower the volume of concerts in the park. The city of Montreal has refused to comment on the issue. Big crowds expected A few days before the gates are set to open for the three day festival, the promoter is optimistic about attendance and expects more than 130,000 concert goers. Attendees come from around the world for Osheaga: more than 55 per cent of ticket purchasers are from outside the province. This year, the festival features a number of big draws including the reunion of the group Outkast, Jack White, Arctic Monkeys and Lorde. An additional stage, bringing the total to six, has been added this year to ensure local acts have a piece of the spotlight. Quebecois artists Foxtrott, Alex Nevky and Les Dead Obies are part of this year's lineup. The STM has set up a special Metro pass for concert-goers. The pass is valid from Friday at 5 a.m. to Monday at 5 a.m.. It costs $16 and is available at select Metro stations. Post By http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/montreal/osheaga-hopes-better-sound-quality-will-cut-noise-pollution-1.2723645</div>

Hot News: Osheaga hopes better sound quality will cut noise pollution

Osheaga organizers have taken some last-minute measures to control the sound emanating from the music festival taking place this weekend on ...

11:51 AM

New Dell i3147 3750sLV 11 6 Inch Convertible Touchscreen

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9:36 AM

Hot News: 10 Osheaga 2014 After Parties You'll Want To Attend With Your Friends

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><img height="300" src="http://www.mtlblog.com/ngx_pagespeed_static/1.JiBnMqyl6S.gif" width="100%"/> The city does not sleep for Osheaga. Photo cred - Sylvain Granier It's the most wonderful time of year! ...Christmas? What? No? Every summer since 2006, Montreal hosts the Osheaga Music and Arts festival which has grown to become the most important festival of its kind in Canada. Don't you love this city? Over 120 000 music lovers from Montreal and all over the world attend this 3 day festival to hear a variety of their favorite bands play while enjoying great ambiance, cool visual arts, and partying with fun Montrealers. This year major artists such as Outkast, Lorde, Jack White, Lykke Li, Chance The Rapper, Joey Bada$$, Modest Mouse, Skrillex, J.Cole and Childish Gambino will be performing at the festival, with many more world renowned artists hitting the stage. Montreal has a reputation for its effervescent nightlife and when we have guests from all over the globe - we definitely outdo ourselves! This weekend is packed with events and after parties to continue rocking out post-Osheaga. Post By http://www.mtlblog.com/2014/07/10-osheaga-2014-after-parties-youll-want-to-attend-with-your-friends/</div>

Hot News: 10 Osheaga 2014 After Parties You'll Want To Attend With Your Friends

The city does not sleep for Osheaga. Photo cred - Sylvain Granier It's the most wonderful time of year! ...Christmas? What? No? Every s...

8:37 AM

Hot News: Red Sox trade rumors: Orioles 'close' to acquiring Jon Lester

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><img height="300" src="http://cdn3.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/36278770/20140331_ajl_aa3_135.0_standard_730.0.jpg" width="100%"/> The Red Sox would get a pitcher back in the deal along with the likely prospect return. All indications this week were that Red Sox ace Jon Lester was going to be traded rather than extended before Thursday's trade deadline. It's not official, but according to the Boston Globe's Peter Abraham and MLB.com's Brittany Ghiroli, the Red Sox and Orioles are close on a deal that will send Lester to Baltimore. Ghiroli reports that the major-league pitcher going back to Boston in the deal might be former Red Sox farmhand and current Orioles' rotation piece, Miguel Gonzalez. The Orioles are within the same division as the Red Sox, making this a bit awkward, but with Lester a free agent at the end of the season, the Orioles not known for their lofty free agent spending, and the Red Sox out of the postseason mix, it's the kind of deal that won't blow up in Boston's face in that regard. The Orioles are the ones risking the ire of their fan base here, as whoever they send to the Red Sox could flourish while the Orioles could fail to win the World Series despite Lester's presence. As we discussed on Tuesday, though, since the Orioles haven't advanced past the LDS since the 90s, and their last World Series victory came before Lester was born, they are in a position to make an aggressive move like trading with a rival. Must Reads Must Reads The Orioles have plenty of pitching prospects to send to the Red Sox, such as Kevin Gausman, 2013 first-round selection Hunter Harvey, or recovering Tommy John recipient -- but elite-level pitching prospect -- Dylan Bundy. Gausman is unlikely if the Sox are going to receive Gonzalez, but Bundy is not quite ready for the bigs again as he works his way back from surgery: the Orioles could send him as the center piece for someone of Lester's caliber without it being unfair for either side. He is unlikely to be the entire package -- none of these prospects would be -- but they would all fit as the major component. It is worth pointing out that a few baseball writers on Twitter -- most notably the reliable Ken Rosenthal -- are suggesting that a deal is in the works but not necessarily is close. Jen Royle reports that a third team is getting involved because the Orioles won't part with the high-end prospects the Red Sox require for Lester. Either way, we'll keep you posted on the situation, the destination, and whatever return is reported. Post By http://www.overthemonster.com/2014/7/30/5952745/red-sox-trade-rumors-orioles-jon-lester</div>

Hot News: Red Sox trade rumors: Orioles 'close' to acquiring Jon Lester

The Red Sox would get a pitcher back in the deal along with the likely prospect return. All indications this week were that Red Sox ace Jon ...

5:29 AM

Hot News: Sharknado 2: the movie's 10 greatest lessons

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><img height="300" src="http://www.vox.com/chorus_images/36294714/standard/234x156/1406771785" width="100%"/> This article is for people who have already witnessed the greatness of Sharknado 2: The Second One. There are spoilers here. On Wednesday, the pleasing garbage fire of a film known as Sharknado 2 premiered on SyFy. On the surface, it's a made-for-TV movie about severe weather phenomena, sea creatures, and the crystal blue eyes of Fin Shepard (Ian Ziering). But it's so much more than that. Underneath all of the low-fi special effects is an ambitious film setting out to dispense messages about our country, how we live, our healthcare system, and even race (we think). Here's what we (think we) learned from the movie: <h3>1) Sharknadoes leave you with PTSD</h3> There are very few messages that this movie wants to convey, but one that seems to resonate through the movie's brittle bones is how human beings address post-traumatic stress disorder. We watch Fin Shepard battle through the residual trauma left by the first Sharknado. This man sees sharks everywhere. They haunt him in his dreams and shake him to his core. Fin's pronounced PTSD asserts that Sharknadoes, like major disasters and tragedies in American history, aren't inconsequential. They leave scars. And no one is the same after them. The film also goes a step further than an 'everybody hurts' message. It also makes clear that not all people care. You might think that Fin, with his damage and all, would be sensitive to the trauma of a Sharknado. Yet, what does Fin do when he's in the hospital, visiting a newly-maimed April (Tara Reid)? He makes fun of her. 'The next time you offer to lend someone a hand, don't be so literal about it,' Fin says while clutching the only hand April has left or, in simpler terms: 'Screw your PTSD, April. Papa has a joke to make.' <h3>2) The tribal power of chainsaws</h3> <img height="300" src="http://cdn2.vox-cdn.com/assets/4836950/2014-07-29_10_54_24.gif" width="100%"/> This article is for people who have already witnessed the greatness of Sharknado 2: The Second One. There are spoilers here. On Wednesday, the pleasing garbage fire of a film known as Sharknado 2 premiered on SyFy. On the surface, it's a made-for-TV movie about severe weather phenomena, sea creatures, and the crystal blue eyes of Fin Shepard (Ian Ziering). But it's so much more than that. Underneath all of the low-fi special effects is an ambitious film setting out to dispense messages about our country, how we live, our healthcare system, and even race (we think). Here's what we (think we) learned from the movie: 1) Sharknadoes leave you with PTSD There are very few messages that this movie wants to convey, but one that seems to resonate through the movie's brittle bones is how human beings address post-traumatic stress disorder. We watch Fin Shepard battle through the residual trauma left by the first Sharknado. This man sees sharks everywhere. They haunt him in his dreams and shake him to his core. Fin's pronounced PTSD asserts that Sharknadoes, like major disasters and tragedies in American history, aren't inconsequential. They leave scars. And no one is the same after them. The film also goes a step further than an 'everybody hurts' message. It also makes clear that not all people care. You might think that Fin, with his damage and all, would be sensitive to the trauma of a Sharknado. Yet, what does Fin do when he's in the hospital, visiting a newly-maimed April (Tara Reid)? He makes fun of her. 'The next time you offer to lend someone a hand, don't be so literal about it,' Fin says while clutching the only hand April has left or, in simpler terms: 'Screw your PTSD, April. Papa has a joke to make.' 2) The tribal power of chainsaws In Sharknado cannon, chainsaws are mythical weapons, the last fool-proof, fail-safe defense we have against sharks. In the Sharknado universe, you are not safe from sharks on dry land or if you have a gun. You are only safe when you have procured a chainsaw. 3) Matt Lauer is the third most important character In this version of New York City, Matt Lauer is the people's rock. He provides information and warmth, and the man radiates safety. Apparently, in times of a disaster (like a Sharknado), the Today show, along with Kelly Ripa and Michael Strahan's talk show, run for hours on end. Which brings us to my next point... 4) Sharknado 2 is a sci-fi movie, but not the way you think While the Sharknado franchise's basic premise - sharks being sucked up into a tornado - pushes the limits of reality, that's actually not its most daring science-fiction move. It also experiments with temporal stasis and counter geography. For instance, the Today show never goes off the air, indicating that the day's events all occurred during Matt Lauer's shift, or, more simply, that there is no concept of time in the Sharknado universe. And the movie also plays with the audience's sense of geography. The opening scene of the movie takes place on an airplane flying into JFK. We don't know where it's from, but since Fin and April (Tara Reid) are onboard, there's an implicit assumption that it's California-based (the first movie took place in Los Angeles). The pilot's instructions are in English, indicating that this is a domestic flight. Keep that in mind, as the plane encounters the beginnings of a Sharknado before landing at JFK and appears to be flying over a body of water. Water is, of course, integral to both a Sharknado and sharks. Alas, finding a large body of salt water flying into New York from the California side would be impossible, unless you were, like Sharknado is, going rogue with geography. 5) Sharknadoes make you reassess your life choices, and interracial relationships There's a slight reference to miscegenation when Fin and Skye (Vivica A. Fox), Fin's old flame, are in the elevator prepared to throw makeshift bombs at the dueling sharknadoes. (Yes, this movie has two sharknadoes.) The film makes clear that they have a connection that doesn't need words, because she nabs a slingshot from the toy store without even being asked. Fin makes a remark about Skye's father not liking him. She replies, 'It was a different time then.' And, I'm just going to leave this here and step away slowly. 6) The bodega is the only good thing to come out of a nanny-state like New York While Fin and his crew of shark saviors are driving through New York City, they are constantly reminded that the city doesn't have things like gun stores or places where you can get giant propane tanks. Some of it is a coy wink and nod to Mayor Michael Bloomberg's nanny-state regime. With nothing open and Fin's crew needing everything, they head into various bodegas and pizza shops and find makeshift weapons, squirt guns (which eventually turn into flamethrowers), and bomb-making supplies - a crystallization of the universal truth that a neighborhood bodega is one of the most crucial things to a New Yorker. 7) There have been major advancement in prosthetic devices April gets her hand bitten off while trying to shoot some sharks. The doctors say she'll make a full recovery and mention how prosthetic hands have come a long way. April will live a full life, her doctor says, thanks to the advancement of prosthetic technology. The film takes this further, and sends the message that prosthetics can actually make you more valuable than you were pre-prosthetics. After her amputation, April finds a way to turn her prosthetic limb into a shark-killing machine by attaching a buzzsaw to the end of it (it is unclear what powers this buzzsaw attachment): This upgrade makes her an invaluable member of the shark-killing team and a more efficient shark killer: 8) New York is ill-equipped to deal with a storm, let alone a sharknado One of Sharknado 2's worldviews is a scathing critique of New York's emergency response system and how the city deals with storms. The movie wants to remind the city of the dodgy mess that was Hurricane Sandy (there's a scene where two city workers mention the last big storm to hit the area): subways are flooded, meteorologists aren't a help, and New Yorkers are clueless when it comes to meteorological phenomena and do things like go to Mets games. Despite this utter cluelessness, the flick paints New Yorkers with an endearing, 'aww shucks' toughness, as witnessed when several New Yorkers open up the trunks of their cars and pull out assault rifles, pitchforks, and shovels to protect themselves. Also, the movie didn't bother with Brooklyn. 9) Despite New York City being terrible, it's still better than Los Angeles and New Jersey If this sharknado were really taking place, New Jersey would be absolutely devastated. There would be a massive loss of life there, considering the state's proximity to the Atlantic ocean, presumably where all the sharks are from. Despite the casualties, the constant message of Sharknado 2 is a callous one: New Jersey sucks. Los Angeles is treated a bit more gently. But there's still a sentiment that it's soft compared to New York City. 10) In Sharknado 2's reality, Mets fans are optimists Mets fans this excited and this happy is more unrealistic than a tornado full of sharks. Post By http://www.vox.com/2014/7/30/5951877/sharknado-2-10-important-things-we-learned</div>

Hot News: Sharknado 2: the movie's 10 greatest lessons

This article is for people who have already witnessed the greatness of Sharknado 2: The Second One . There are spoilers here. On Wednesday...

11:39 PM

Hot News: 'Sharknado 2′ Review: The Best Worst Movie Ever?

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><img height="300" src="http://pmchollywoodlife.files.wordpress.com/2014/07/sharknado-2-the-second-one-gallery-9-lead.jpg?w=600" width="100%"/>If you enjoy having no fun in your life, go on with your day in misery, as the rest of the world will be watching and loving 'Sharknado 2: The Second One', a deliciously biting sequel that gives us all the laughs, the scares, the chainsaws and the complete absurd! Don't miss it! Sharknado 2: The Second One is so bad, it's good, and that is exactly what weexpected, wanted and needed. This action-packed sequel needs to be watched with a group of friends so set up the party now! What else should you expect? Find out with our full review, after the jump! Sharknado 2: The Second One Is The Best One? Sharknado 2: The Second One is the best B-movie ever! The only thing that Sharknado 2 may be missing is a drinking game. So to start one, for every cameo and shark death, you have to take a shot. Good luck, you are in for an exciting night! Now to the film - we start off the, as April, played by the one and only Tara Reid, heads to NYC for a book signing. She's written a Sharknado survival guide and you guessed it, another Sharknado hits, but this time on the east coast, and in America's favorite city! So she must now join Fin ( Ian Ziering) and warn everyone of the impending doom. The survival adventure follows both on mostly separate adventures to make sure a F-5 Sharknado doesn't ruin the Big Apple! To help their mission, there are plenty of fun cameos including Judd Hirsch who plays a taxi driver, Robert Hayes who plays a pilot that get the main cast to the places they need to be at so they can focus on fighting off endless amounts of sharks throughout. The clever FX, the tounge in cheek outrageous stunts and endless barrage of weapons are the backdrop to a funny and action-packed ride that doesn't let up once over the two hours you'll be spending with it. Take Our Poll The film is clearly awesome and shouldn't have many spoilers given out by us, but you should go in knowing you'll have fun with its brilliant and goofy absurdness. Tune in, DVR or watch the repeat. It is well worth it! Will There Be A Sharknado 3? After tonight, people will be wanting a third film, that is a guarantee! Lucky for viewers, HollywoodLife.com talked to the cast at Comic-Con, and many share that sentiment. Ian Ziering talked about the potential sequel EXCLUSIVELY to HollywoodLife.com telling us, 'I am hoping this is a seven course meal! I would like the third installment be taken to foreign shores!' And if it is anything like the first two films, count us in for the fun as well. We will certainly love every minute of it! Sharknado 2: The Second One premieres Wednesday, July 30th (9/8c) on Syfy. HollywoodLifers, are you hooked on the Sharknado phenomenon? Drop a comment below! - Russ Weakland More 'Sharknado' News: 'Sharknado 2′: Even More Ridiculous Than The First - Watch Trailer 'Sharknado 2′: Sharks Have Found Tara Reid Yet Again - Full Trailer Iggy Azalea & Nicki Minaj: Will They Have A Cameo Feud In 'Sharknado'? Post By http://hollywoodlife.com/2014/07/30/sharknado-2-review-the-second-one/</div>

Hot News: 'Sharknado 2′ Review: The Best Worst Movie Ever?

If you enjoy having no fun in your life, go on with your day in misery, as the rest of the world will be watching and loving 'Sharknado ...

8:41 PM

Hot News: Miranda Kerr Never Hooked Up With Justin Bieber, Lawyer Says

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><img height="300" src="http://pmchollywoodlife.files.wordpress.com/2014/07/lawyer-miranda-kerr-deny-justin-bieber-affair-lead.jpg?w=600" width="100%"/>Justin Bieber and Orlando Bloom's longstanding feud came to a head on July 29, when Orlando threw a punch at the biebs. The bad blood began back in 2012 when rumors circulated that Orlando's wife, Miranda Kerr had hooked up with Justin. However, following the speculation, Miranda and her lawyer released a statement that nothing happened between them! Rumors have been running wild since the 2012 Victoria's Secret Fashion Show that Orlando Bloom's ex wife, Miranda Kerr, 31, and the night's musical performer, Justin Bieber, 20, reportedly hooked up following the show. The stunning beauty was quick to put the rumors to rest, when she and her lawyer both claimed that the rumors were false. Now, following Justin and Orlando's brawl in Ibiza, Spain, the speculation has started up again that their brawl could have been over Miranda! Miranda Kerr Justin Bieber Hook Up Rumors Jaws dropped when TMZ released a video of Orlando punching Justin. The pair were at Cipriani restaurant in the company of plenty of other stars, including Paris Hilton, and when the brawl took place. 'Justin was at one table, and Orlando was at another,' a source told Page Six. 'But when Bieber and his party were later walking past Bloom's table, Orlando refused to shake Bieber's hand. Bieber said something rude to Orlando, like, 'She was good.'' - so inappropriate! This feud has been brewing for years now. Back in 2012 it was rumored that Miranda and Justin hooked up following the VS Fashion Show, and reportedly were even exchanging super flirty texts. Miranda made sure to hit the rumors on the head right away, by releasing a statement with her lawyer. According to TMZ, she calls the rumors 'false and defamatory.' We are not sure if Orlando bought the model's story, but the couple announced that they were separating in the fall of 2013. Miranda even told HollywoodLife.com exclusively what she thought about Justin before the 2012 show, 'I think Bieber is so sweet,' Justin was at the show to perform. 'He was really sweet, really charming, and he's obviously very talented. I actually really like his music.' The model confirmed that she is not the only one in the family who is a fan of Justin. Her son, Flynn Christopher Bloom, 3, also has Bieber fever - something that we are sure Orlando just loves! Take Our Poll Miranda Kerr And Selena Gomez React To The Brawl Selena Gomez has recently been spotted hanging out with Orlando. They were first seen together back in March at We Day California. Then they were seen a second time after they attended a Chelsea Handler show. This love triangle is officially a square! While Selena was at the premiere of her new film, Behaving Badly, HollywoodLife.com learned exclusively that she was aware of the brawl and was 'embarrassed' by her ex's actions. At this point we are sure that nothing that Justin is involved with ever comes as a surprise anymore. Meanwhile, Miranda is busy in Germany for the launch of Escada's new perfume, Joyful. S tepping out with Flynn, the stunner is clearly paying no mind to the rumors or the brawl and is spending time with the person who matters most to her. What do YOU think, HollywoodLifers? Do you think Orlando should have punched Justin? Let us know what you think! - Caitlin Beck More Miranda Kerr News: Justin Bieber: Watch Him Kiss Miranda Kerr Before Orlando Bloom Fight Justin Bieber's Cruel Diss To Orlando Bloom: Miranda Kerr 'Was Good' Miranda Kerr Puts Son First After Orlando Bloom & Justin Bieber Fight Post By http://hollywoodlife.com/2014/07/30/miranda-kerr-justin-bieber-hook-up-rumors-false-orlando-bloom-fight/</div>

Hot News: Miranda Kerr Never Hooked Up With Justin Bieber, Lawyer Says

Justin Bieber and Orlando Bloom's longstanding feud came to a head on July 29, when Orlando threw a punch at the biebs. The bad blood be...

5:38 PM

Hot News: With Boston Red Sox in position to be sellers, Jon Lester on list of available ...

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><img height="300" src="http://wpmedia.sports.nationalpost.com/2014/07/deadline-1.jpg?w=620&h=433" width="100%"/> Jon Lester would be able to pitch immediately for his new club if he's dealt by the Boston Red Sox before Thursday's Major League Baseball trade deadline. Which team that might be is unclear. Consider Martin Prado. He is a steady hitter (.291 career average, .767 OPS). He plays third base, and has played second, as well as left field. He is durable, having averaged 141 games from 2009 through 2013. He is 30 years old. He plays for the Arizona Diamondbacks, who are willing to trade him. So far, so good, if you're seeking an ideal supplement for the Toronto Blue Jays roster. Oh, and there's this: Prado is owed US$22-million over the next two years and close to US$4-million for the rest of this season. Which means the Blue Jays have likely scratched him off their shopping list as they decide what to do before Thursday's non-waiver trade deadline. The Red Sox scratched Lester from his scheduled start Wednesday against the Toronto Blue Jays as interest swirls around the 30-year-old left-hander who has a 110-63 record with a 3.64 earned run average over nine seasons in Boston. Nine months after winning the World Series, the Red Sox are in last place in the American League Eastern Division and in position to be sellers at baseball's trade deadline. The Pittsburgh Pirates, Los Angeles Dodgers, Blue Jays, Milwaukee Brewers, St. Louis Cardinals and Seattle Mariners are among those teams contending for a playoff spot who might be interested in parting with prospects for Lester, who is 10-7 with a 2.52 ERA and will become a free agent after this season. 'Any team that gets him, they're getting a post-season warrior,' said MLB Network analyst John Hart, a former general manager of the Cleveland Indians and Texas Rangers. 'Boston's decision is going to be, 'If we trade Lester now, can we re-sign him again in the winter and can we pick up one or two top-flight prospects in return?'' By calling up Brandon Workman from the minor leagues to make tonight's start, the Red Sox have made Lester available to pitch for his new team immediately after any possible trade. Lester has a 6-4 record in the post-season and is 3-0 with a 0.43 ERA in his three career World Series starts. 'In light of all the uncertainty surrounding Jon Lester, it's probably in everyone's best interests that he does not make that start,' Red Sox manager John Farrell told reporters after Tuesday night's loss that dropped his team to 48-59. More Pitchers Other veteran pitchers who might be available ahead of the July 31 trade deadline include Cole Hamels and Cliff Lee of the Philadelphia Phillies, Bartolo Colon of the New York Mets, John Lackey of the Red Sox, Justin Masterson of the Cleveland Indians and John Danks of the Chicago White Sox. David Price's US$14-million contract with Tampa Bay is up after this season and he was considered a potential trade chip after the Rays' 28-45 start. They have a 25-9 record since, however, pulling within 4 1/2 games of a wild-card playoff spot in the American League. He is pitching Wednesday. Non-pitchers who could be traded include Dodgers outfielder Matt Kemp, Philadelphia Phillies outfielder Marlon Byrd, Chicago White Sox first baseman Adam Dunn, and Colorado Rockies first baseman Justin Morneau and shortstop Troy Tulowitzki. Byrd, 36, was traded to the Pirates from the Mets last August and helped Pittsburgh make the playoffs for the first time since 1992. He's played for seven teams over his 13-year career and is hitting .273 with 20 homers and 60 runs batted in for the Phillies this season. 'He's one of those guys who can fit in wherever he goes,' MLB Network analyst Sean Casey said. 'Byrd is an impact bat who can help out somebody right now.' The trade deadline is at 4 p.m. New York time tomorrow. After that, players can still switch teams until Aug. 31, though they would have to first clear waivers. Bloomberg.comhttp://www.Bloomberg.com Post By http://sports.nationalpost.com/2014/07/30/with-boston-red-sox-in-position-to-be-sellers-jon-lester-on-list-of-available-players-at-mlb-trade-deadline/</div>

Hot News: With Boston Red Sox in position to be sellers, Jon Lester on list of available ...

Jon Lester would be able to pitch immediately for his new club if he's dealt by the Boston Red Sox before Thursday's Major League Ba...

5:38 PM

Hot News: Justin Bieber's Cruel Diss To Orlando Bloom: Miranda Kerr 'Was Good'

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><img height="300" src="http://pmchollywoodlife.files.wordpress.com/2014/07/justin-biber-diss-orland-bloom-miranda-kerr-was-good-gty-lead.jpg?w=600" width="100%"/>It sounds like Miranda Kerr is stuck in the middle of a nasty brawl! In the early hours of July 30, Orlando Bloom swung at Justin Bieber in a brawl at Cipriani restaurant in Ibiza, Spain, after the singer reportedly made a comment about hooking up with Orlando's ex, Miranda! Burn! Orlando Bloom, 37, and Justin Bieber, 20, have two very important things in common - their exes. After the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show in October 2012, Justin hung out with Orlando's then-wife, Miranda Kerr, 31, and the two reportedly exchanged flirty text messages - a factor that may have led to Miranda and Orlando's split in October 2013. So when the actor and singer came face-to-face in a restaurant Spain, Justin reportedly commented on hooking up with his wife, prompting Orlando to take a swing at him! Justin Bieber's Diss To Orlando Bloom 'Justin was at one table, and Orlando was at another,' a source told Page Six. 'But when Bieber and his party were later walking past Bloom's table, Orlando refused to shake Bieber's hand. Bieber said something rude to Orlando, like, 'She was good.'' Take Our Poll Ouch! Meanwhile, Page Six's other sources claimed that Justin wasn't aware the Pirates of the Caribbean star was even there until Orlando began 'being an a-hole.' He made the comment about Miranda, causing Orlando to swing, one source claimed - while another said that the comment was made after Orlando swung. Regardless, we saw the swing happen in a shocking video posted on TMZ! The source also added that the crowd cheered when Justin quickly left the restaurant, even though they were quickly split up by their entourages. Justin Bieber: Did He Start The Altercation? An eyewitness to the whole thing told HollywoodLife.com that it appeared that Justin 'purposely bumped into Orlando on his way in and made it look like he didn't.' Then came the swinging. 'The swing was a punch motion but in mid-throw Orlando realized what he was doing and pulled back, making it look awkward and something that didn't connect,' the eyewitness added. There has been tension for years between Justin and Orlando as they're, in a way, living in a love square. Justin didn't only hang out with Miranda, but Justin's on-again off-again fling, Selena Gomez, actually hung out with Orlando in April 2014 at Chelsea Handler 's stand up show in Inglewood, Cali. Plus, we know Justin wasn't exactly apologetic after the brawl! He took to Instagram immediately to share a super sexy pic of Miranda, with his favorite emoji as a caption: a crown. He must have realized pretty quickly that this wasn't a good move - he deleted it just a few minutes after posting. Are you keeping up with the love square, HollywoodLifers? Fans are freaking out on Twitter! Do you think Justin's comment was too rude and pushed Orlando over the edge? Or do you think Orlando was out of line for swinging? Let us know! - Emily LongerettaFollow @EmilyLongeretta More Justin Bieber News: Orlando Bloom: If You Punched Justin Bieber, You Need To Apologize Orlando Bloom Thinks Justin Bieber 'Needs To Be Put In His Place' Miranda Kerr Speaks Out: Why She Likes Justin Bieber - Watch Video Post By http://hollywoodlife.com/2014/07/30/justin-bieber-diss-orlando-bloom-miranda-kerr-sex-was-good/</div>

Hot News: Justin Bieber's Cruel Diss To Orlando Bloom: Miranda Kerr 'Was Good'

It sounds like Miranda Kerr is stuck in the middle of a nasty brawl! In the early hours of July 30, Orlando Bloom swung at Justin Bieber in ...

12:26 PM

Hot News: Ebola: what you need to know

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><img height="300" src="http://cdn1.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/36208598/451439668.0_standard_234.0.jpg" width="100%"/> The deadliest Ebola outbreak in recorded history is happening right now. The outbreak is unprecedented both in infection numbers and in geographic scope. And so far, it's been a long battle that doesn't appear to be slowing down. The current outbreak has killed 672 people and infected about 1,200 The Ebola virus has now hit four countries: Sierra Leone, Guinea, Liberia, and recently Nigeria, according to the country's ministry of health. The virus - which starts off with flu-like symptoms and often ends with horrific hemorrhaging - has infected 1,201 people and killed an estimated 672 since this winter, according to the numbers on July 23 from the World Health Organization. Ebola is both rare and very deadly. Since the first outbreak in 1976, Ebola viruses have infected thousands of people and killed roughly 60 percent of them. Symptoms can come on very quickly and kill fast: Journalist David Quammen put it well in a recent New York Times op-ed: 'Ebola is more inimical to humans than perhaps any known virus on Earth, except rabies and HIV-1. And it does its damage much faster than either.' So why is Ebola doing so much damage right now? Here's a primer on what's going on. Why is Ebola back in the news? Ebola tends to come and go over time. The viruses are constantly circulating in animals, most likely bats. Every once in a while, the disease spills over into humans, often when someone handles or eats undercooked or raw meat from a diseased ape, monkey, or bat. An outbreak can then happen for several months. And then it becomes quiet again. Ebola can completely disappear from humans for years at a time. For example, there were zero recorded cases of Ebola in 2005 or 2006. The current outbreak has been going on since late 2013 or early 2014 and has been getting extra attention in the news recently as several doctors have caught the disease, including a Liberian doctor (who died) and Sierra Leone's top Ebola doctor (who is undergoing treatment). Where is the current Ebola outbreak? The current outbreak started in Guinea sometime in late 2013 or early 2014. It has since spread to Sierra Leone, Liberia, including some major capital cities. And one infected patient traveled to Nigeria on a plane, according to the Nigerian Ministry of Health. Why is this particular outbreak so deadly? For starters, this outbreak concerns the most deadly of the five Ebola viruses, Zaire ebolavirus, which has killed 79 percent of the people it has infected in previous outbreaks. (The virus is called that after the formerly named Zaire, which, along with Sudan, experienced the first Ebola outbreak back in 1976.) There are also social and political factors contributing to the current disaster. Because this is the first major Ebola outbreak in West Africa, many of the region's health workers didn't have experience or training in how to protect themselves or care for patients with this disease. What's more, an NPR story suggests that people in these countries tend to travel more than those in Central Africa (where outbreaks usually occur). That may have helped the virus disperse geographically, and it made it difficult to track down people who might be infected. Meanwhile, as an editorial in the medical journal Lancet noted, social stigmas and a lack of awareness may lead people to not seek medical care (or even avoid it). Another often-cited problem is that some people have had direct contact with victims' dead bodies during funerals and preparations for burial, which can spread the disease. In many ways, how well a country dealS with Ebola comes down to basic health care and public education Some people are afraid that medical workers are causing Ebola, and workers 'have been threatened with knives, stones and machetes, their vehicles sometimes surrounded by hostile mobs,' according to the New York Times. The humanitarian group Doctors Without Borders has noted 12 villages in Guinea that might have Ebola but aren't safe for workers. In Sierra Leone, a protest against a clinic led to the police using tear gas. And a World Health Organization assessment in Liberia noted problems with tracing patients' contacts with other people, ' persisting denial and resistance in the community,' and issues with 'inadequate' measures used to prevent and control infections, weak data management, and 'w eak leadership and coordination,' according to a statement released on July 19. In many ways, how well a country can deal with an Ebola outbreak comes down to basic health-care practices and public education. With enough resources poured into the effort, people should be able to contain this outbreak. So far, however, these countries are really struggling. Does Ebola really make people bleed from their eyes? Yes. Bleeding from orifices is one of the more unusual and memorable symptoms of viral hemorrhagic fevers like Ebola. In later stages of the disease, some people bleed from the eyes, nose, ears, mouth, and rectum. They may also bleed from puncture sites if they've had an IV. External bleeding can be one of the main symptoms that can help people realize they're dealing with a case of Ebola, since other signs - first fevers and headache, then vomiting and diarrhea - can be caused by any number of illnesses. Internal bleeding can happen, as well. But it doesn't always happen. For example, this study of a 1995 outbreak in found external bleeding in 41 percent of cases. And bleeding didn't correlate with who survived and who didn't. What actually kills people is shock from multiple organ failure, including problems with the liver, kidneys, and central nervous system. Symptoms come on abruptly after an incubation period of 2 to 21 days. And people generally die between day 6 and 16 of the illness. Why is Ebola so deadly? One of the main things that seems to make Ebola viruses especially deadly is that they seem to be able to evade much of the human immune system. Among other problems, white blood cells from the immune system are often seen to die off in patients. And if the body can't fight fully back, the virus can just keep taking over. Scientists are still figuring out exactly how this happens, and they have several promising leads. One is that the virus is making proteins that act as decoys, interfering with the body's ability to fight back. How hard is it to catch Ebola? Ebola is relatively hard to catch compared to some other viruses like measles, SARS, or the flu. It's not spreadable through the air, so someone won't get it from someone else coughing or sneezing. In order to contract Ebola, someone must touch the blood or bodily fluids (including sweat, urine, and semen) of a person or animal who's infected (alive or dead). People can also catch it through indirect contact with victims' fluids, such as via bedding or medical equipment. People generally aren't infectious until they get sick. Ebola's limited transmission ability is one of the main reasons why outbreaks can often be stopped within weeks or months. What it takes is public education and good health-care hygiene like isolating patients, sterilization procedures, and the use of gloves, masks, and other protective gear. What are the chances of Ebola spreading to the US? The Ebola viruses known today don't spread from person-to-person well enough to have much risk of causing a wide pandemic across several continents. The risk of Ebola coming to the US is still very low. And if a case did appear in the USA, it 'would not pose a major public health risk' Michael Osterholm, biosecurity expert and director of the Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy at the University of Minnesota told USA Today. Why? Because it would be quickly tracked down and controlled. How do you treat Ebola? Patients are treated for symptoms, including IV fluids for dehydration. It's important to remember that some people do survive an Ebola infection. Hopefully, in the future there will be more options. For example, researchers are working to find drugs, including a recent $50 million push at the National Institutes of Health. And scientists are working on vaccines, including looking into ones that might be able to help wild chimpanzees, which are also susceptible to the disease. Post By http://www.vox.com/2014/7/29/5945515/ebola-outbreak-virus-disease-symptoms-africa-facts-guinea-nigeria</div>

Hot News: Ebola: what you need to know

The deadliest Ebola outbreak in recorded history is happening right now. The outbreak is unprecedented both in infection numbers and in geog...

12:26 PM

Hot News: Azaria Marthyman, Ebola doctor, returns home to Victoria

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><img height="300" src="http://i.cbc.ca/1.2721841.1406661624!/fileImage/httpImage/image.jpg_gen/derivatives/original_300/azaria-marthyman.jpg" width="100%"/> Dr. Azaria Marthyman, a Victoria doctor who was part of a medical group that travelled to Liberia earlier this month to treat victims of the Ebola virus has returned home, while two of his U.S. colleagues infected with the deadly virus fight for their lives. Marthyman was part of a 14-member team sent by Christian relief agency Samaritan's Purse to provide clinical care following a renewed outbreak of Ebola in West Africa. On Saturday, the charity issued a news release saying that one of Marthyman's colleagues, Dr. Kent Brantly of the U.S., had tested positive for the virus and was being treated in isolation in Liberia. On Sunday, Serving In Mission (SIM) - another charity that works closely with Samaritan's Purse - said that Nancy Writebol, an American who was part of the joint SIM/Samaritan's Purse team, had also tested positive for Ebola and was being treated in the same isolation centre as Brantly. Earlier, Samaritan's Purse had told media that Marthyman voluntarily placed himself under quarantine at home as a precaution upon his return. But spokesman Jeff Adams said Tuesday afternoon that information was incorrect, and that Marthyman is just taking some time off with his family to decompress from his trip. Marthyman is healthy and has no symptoms, he said. Both charities announced Tuesday that they have now ordered the evacuation of their non-essential personnel from Liberia after an upsurge in the number of Ebola cases in the country. A statement from SIM says no symptoms of Ebola are present in any of the evacuees, who are being monitored continually. According to the World Health Organization, the incubation period for the virus is two to 21 days. The fast-acting Ebola virus, which first appeared in 1976, produces a violent hemorrhagic fever that leads to internal and external bleeding. The infection is transmitted by direct contact with blood, body fluids and tissues of infected people or animals. As of July 23, the number of Ebola cases in West Africa reached 1,201, with 672 deaths, according to the World Health Organization. This Ebola outbreak is the largest in history, with deaths in Sierra Leone, Liberia, Guinea and Nigeria blamed on the virus. There is no vaccine and no specific treatment. Doctor refuses interview request CBC News sought to interview Martyman by email about his experiences in Liberia fighting Ebola, but he declined. 'I regret to inform you that I am declining all requests for media interviews,' the email reads. 'The situation in Liberia is changing rapidly, and I don't have the most up-to-date information. Therefore, to avoid giving out any information that might not be accurate, I am referring all interview requests to our international headquarters, because staff there are closest to the situation in Liberia.' Marthyman posted many updates on the Samaritan's Purse blog while he was in Liberia. On July 24, he posted that he was headed home. 'I am doing very well physically and emotionally, having worked every day since my arrival in Liberia, and today having to say goodbye to so many people,' the post read. Mostly, though, Marthyman used his blog post to tell the story of a young boy named William, the doctor's first Ebola patient in Liberia, who needed to find a home. 'William now needs a home to go to,' Marthyman wrote. 'He does not have any family to care for him and will be under the ministry's care. I pray that he will have a loving home to go to. Meeting William today seems to bring some closure to my stay here in Liberia, as I prepare myself to come home to my wife and family.' At least two other British Columbians have travelled to Liberia this month with Samaritan's Purse to fight Ebola. They include a nurse from Vancouver and a nursing student, who is also an emergency medical responder, from Squamish. <cite>With files from The Canadian Press</cite> Post By http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/british-columbia/azaria-marthyman-ebola-doctor-returns-home-to-victoria-1.2721631</div>

Hot News: Azaria Marthyman, Ebola doctor, returns home to Victoria

Dr. Azaria Marthyman, a Victoria doctor who was part of a medical group that travelled to Liberia earlier this month to treat victims of the...

11:35 AM

Hot News: Now Trending: Why an ex-Bachelor contestant called the Bachelorette finale 'trash'

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><img height="300" src="http://beta.images.theglobeandmail.com/a1e/incoming/article19818982.ece/ALTERNATES/w140/Screen+Shot+2014-07-29+at+9.28.54+AM.png" width="100%"/> Was last night's wrap-up of The Bachelorette truly unscripted reality drama, or did the show's producers orchestrate the closing scenes like a pro-wrestling match? According to former Bachelor contestant Nikki Ferrell, it was all a big fake. Note: Consider all spoiler alerts in effect from this point onward. Video Video Video Best known as the winner of the most recent edition of The Bachelor (she was chosen by Juan Pablo Galavis, but they chose not to get hitched), Ferrell went onto Twitter (@Nikki_Ferrell) on Monday night to call out the show's producers shortly after the airing of ABC's post-finale After the Rose special. Specifically, Ferrell appeared to take issue with the moment in the special when spurned suitor Nick Viall confronted Bachelorette Andi Dorfman for rejecting him after they slept together during their allotted time in the Fantasy Suite. Said the devastated Nick: 'Feeling the way you did, if you knew how in love with you I was, why did you make love with me?' Tweeted Ferrell: 'Gee I wonder who told Nick to say that... How the producers of @BachelorABC sleep at night is beyond me. #trash.' Moments later, Ferrell softened her opinion of The Bachelorette final chapter in which Dorfman gave her final rose to ex-baseball player Josh Murray and accepted his wedding proposal (you can watch a capsulized recap of the finale here). Ferrell's followup tweet: 'But on a positive note so beyond happy for @AndiDorfman and @jmurbulldog. I bet it feels so good to be free! #congrats.' However reality fans choose to regard Ferrell's cynical assessment, Dorfman and Murray didn't waste any time being seen as a couple in public. As reported by TMZ, the attractive couple were spotted together at Los Angeles International Airport last night getting on the red-eye flight to appear on morning TV shows in New York. The interesting part: TMZ talked to Dorfman and Holloway at LAX around 9:15 p.m. PDT. Dorfman didn't make her pick on The Bachelorette until 9:45 p.m. Even in the make-it-up-as-you-go-along reality-TV world, that's cutting it close. COOLING DOWN Former Jersey Shore fixture Mike (The Situation) Sorrentino will take classes in anger management. The reality star agreed Monday to attend the classes as part of a plea deal to resolve assault charges following a fight with his own brother at their family's tanning salon in Middletown Township, N.J., earlier this summer. In an interview with People magazine, Sorrentino said, 'I've been arguing and fighting with my little brothers since I was 6 or 7. I work with my family, and I sort of live with them as well, so it gets a little tricky.' Source: People STRIKING BACK Kiefer Sutherland has responded to recent claims of unprofessionalism levied against him by fellow actor Freddie Prinze Jr. Last weekend, Prinze told reporters at Comic-Con that working opposite Sutherland on the Fox series 24 back in 2010 made him 'want to quit the business.' On Monday, a rep for Sutherland told E! News: 'Kiefer worked with Freddie Prinze Jr. more than five years ago and this is the first time he has heard of Freddie's grievances. Kiefer enjoyed working with Freddie and wishes him the best.' HANGING IT UP Maksim Chmerkovskiy will no longer perform on Dancing with the Stars. The Ukrainian hoofer made the announcement on the Tuesday episode of The View. 'I'm done dancing,' said the 34-year-old hoofer. 'I feel like it's time.' Chmerkovskiy made his first appearance on DWTS in the show's second season and has since been paired with such celebrity partners as actress Tia Carrere, boxer Laila Ali and Olympian Hope Solo. Chmerkovskiy originally left the show after the 16th season but returned for last fall's 18th campaign that saw him winning the coveted Mirrorball trophy for the first time with Olympic ice skater Meryl Davis as his partner. ONE AND DONE Lisa Kudrow completed her jury duty in less than one day. The former Friends star was recently selected for the task by Los Angeles County Superior Court, where she reported for duty last week. According to TMZ sources, Kudrow was not selected for a jury panel, which lead to her being dismissed after several hours. REST IN PEACE Actor James Shigeta has passed away at 81. Born and raised in Honolulu, Hawaii, Shigeta rose to prominence following a lead role in the 1961 film Flower Drum Song, which earned five Oscar nominations. Shigeta also starred in the 1966 feature Hawaiian Style opposite Elvis Presley, played an ill-fated Japanese executive in the 1988 feature Die Hard and voiced the character of General Li in the 1998 animated feature Mulan. Follow us on Twitter: @globeandmail Post By http://www.theglobeandmail.com/life/celebrity-news/now-trending-why-an-ex-bachelor-contestant-called-the-bachelorette-finale-trash/article19825447/</div>

Hot News: Now Trending: Why an ex-Bachelor contestant called the Bachelorette finale 'trash'

Was last night's wrap-up of The Bachelorette truly unscripted reality drama, or did the show's producers orchestrate the closing sce...

11:35 AM

Hot News: Damon Albarn's contribution to 'Lucy' soundtrack revealed – hear 'Sister Rust' now

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><img height="300" src="http://nme.assets.ipccdn.co.uk/images/article/2014DamonAlbarn_Getty487514017_010514.jpg" width="100%"/> Original song appears on soundtrack to new Scarlett Johansson film Damon Albarn has contributed new song 'Sister Rust' to the Lucy soundtrack. Click above to listen now. The cinematic song features on the soundtrack to the action film starring Scarlett Johansson. The majority of the music in the film was provided by composer Eric Serra. Lucy is released in the UK on August 22 but is already out in America. Meanwhile, Albarn has said that Blur may never finish the album they began working on in 2013. Albarn, who released his first solo album 'Everyday Robots' in April, recorded new music with his Blur bandmates in Hong Kong in May last year. However, in an interview published in this week's NME which is on newsstands today (July 30) and available digitally, Albarn says that because he likes to work in shorter, more concentrated periods of time he fears that he may never return to the tracks the band made while in Asia. Post By http://www.nme.com/news/damon-albarn/78857</div>

Hot News: Damon Albarn's contribution to 'Lucy' soundtrack revealed – hear 'Sister Rust' now

Original song appears on soundtrack to new Scarlett Johansson film Damon Albarn has contributed new song 'Sister Rust' to the Lucy ...

5:28 AM

Hot News: FAQ: Celebrating Eid al-Fitr

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><img height="300" src="http://www.680news.com/wp-content/blogs.dir/2/files/2014/07/eid2012.jpg" width="100%"/> Muslims around the world are gathering for special events as Eid al-Fitr (usually simply called 'Eid') celebrations are underway. But what is the holiday all about, how is it being celebrated, and how do you wish someone a happy Eid? Here are five things to know about Eid: 1. What is Eid? It's a religious holiday celebrated by Muslims. Traditionally, people gather with relatives and loved ones for special prayers, donate money to charity, and have a feast to mark the end of Ramadan. It's also a day that people use to reconcile their differences with others, or to forgive someone. 2. Wait, what's Ramadan? Ramadan is the Islamic holy month of reflection, when Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset. 3. I'm pretty sure I remember an Eid celebration this past fall. What gives? You're right, because there are two Eid celebrations. Monday marks Eid al-Fitr, the festival of breaking of the fast. The fall celebration was Eid al-Adha, which marks the end of the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca. That's expected to fall on a day in October of 2014. 4. So, what day of the year does Eid al-Fitr happen? That's a tricky question. Most countries observe Eid when the Shawwal moon, or new moon, can be seen in Saudi Arabia. This year, that is on July 28. 5. How do I wish someone a happy Eid? Well, 'happy Eid' works, but if you want to impress your friend with your newfound knowledge, say 'Eid Mubarak,' which roughly translates to 'blessed Eid.' Post By http://www.citynews.ca/2014/07/28/faq-celebrating-eid-al-fitr/</div>

Hot News: FAQ: Celebrating Eid al-Fitr

Muslims around the world are gathering for special events as Eid al-Fitr (usually simply called 'Eid') celebrations are underway. Bu...

2:37 AM

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9:47 PM

Hot News: PHOTOS: Eid celebrations from around the world

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><img height="300" src="http://vipmedia.globalnews.ca/2014/07/eid-celebrations-2014-8.jpg?w=282&h=188&crop=1" width="100%"/> ; Eid al-Fitr is the celebration that marks the end of the month of Ramadan, a month of fasting from dawn until sunset celebrated by Muslims all over the world. On this day, Muslims in countries around the world start the day with prayer and spend time with family, offer gifts and often give to charity. There are however, regional differences in the exact timing of Eid due to different interpretations of the calendar and variations in religious opinion. Here's a look at Eid al-Fitr from around the world: France: Indonesia: Jerusalem: Spain: Gaza: WATCH: Palestinian Muslims celebrate Eid amidst devastation of Gaza City Malaysia: © Shaw Media, 2014 Post By http://globalnews.ca/news/1477233/photos-eid-celebrations-from-around-the-world/</div>

Hot News: PHOTOS: Eid celebrations from around the world

; Eid al-Fitr is the celebration that marks the end of the month of Ramadan, a month of fasting from dawn until sunset celebrated by Muslims...

5:42 PM

Hot News: Who is the Next Bachelor: Chris Soules or Arie Luyendyk, Jr.?

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><img height="300" src="http://1-ps.googleusercontent.com/h/www.gstatic.com/psa/static/1.gif" width="100%"/> If you were hoping to learn who is the next Bachelor at the end of The Bachelorette last night, you were disappointed, as the franchise did not pass the torch. In past years, The Bachelor or The Bachelorette season finale has also featured this big reveal on After the Final Rose. Not this time, for reasons unknown. Chris Soules, the sweet farmer from Iowa who finished third this season, attended the taping of After the Final Rose, leaving us to believe he's the guy. He may well be, though it was announced a new Bachelor wouldn't be revealed Monday, Soules blushed and laughed nervously when the topic came up. Fans (and fellow Bachelorette stars) also began chanting his name at one point, so it seems safe to assume he'd be a popular choice if he got the nod. That's not a guarantee, though, as insiders confirm former Bachelorette contestant Arie Luyendyk, Jr., Emily Maynard's runner-up, is in the running, too. 'Arie is being considered and filmed for promos,' a source said. 'He already had his packages shot and they even got him a trainer so he could buff up.' Farmer Chris Soules remains the front-runner though, another sleuth suggests, noting that no decision has been made and declining to elaborate. 'Chris is still on the short list to be The Bachelor,' the insider says. 'They wont be announcing the person for several weeks ... but Chris is still in the running.' Who do you think should get the nod of the two front-running candidates? Cast your vote in the survey above and share your comments below! Post By http://www.thehollywoodgossip.com/2014/07/who-is-the-next-bachelor-chris-soules-or-arie-luyendyk-jr/</div>

Hot News: Who is the Next Bachelor: Chris Soules or Arie Luyendyk, Jr.?

If you were hoping to learn who is the next Bachelor at the end of The Bachelorette last night, you were disappointed, as the franchise did ...

2:44 PM

Hot News: Meet Camille Leblanc-Bazinet: the world's fittest woman

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><img height="300" src="https://s.yimg.com/os/publish-images/sports/2014-07-29/d9941b00-1742-11e4-9d19-b5db78a64908_camille_leblanc_bazinet.jpg" width="100%"/> Camille Leblanc-Bazinet ( Facebook) If you asked the average Canadian to name the country's fittest female, you might hear such names as Christine Sinclair, Kaillie Humphries or Justine Dufour-Lapointe. Well, forget about all of them. They're poseurs compared with Camille Leblanc-Bazinet. The 25-year-old student from Richelieu, Que., now proudly wears the title of the World's Fittest Woman after winning the Reebok CrossFit Games in Carson, Calif., on Sunday. She beat out two-time champion Annie Thorisdottir of Iceland to become the first Canadian woman to claim the title as fittest female on the planet in the competition's eight years of existence. In fact, based on her performance at the recent competition, Leblanc-Bazinet might even qualify as the fittest person in Canada. [Photos: Best shots from the Games in Scotland] There aren't many of either gender who could even survive the CrossFit Games, never mind excel in a field of highly motivated competitors doing weightlifting, gymnastics and high-intensity interval training. Let's just say that the competition was pretty much a test of every physical skill and many mental ones, which might explain why first prize was $275,000 U.S. For example, the first event involved swimming 1,000 yards in a rather choppy Pacific Ocean followed by kettle bell squats and burpees. Other events involved squats with weights up to 200 pounds, running and pull-ups. 'They really try to test everything,' Leblanc-Bazinet told the National Post. The University of Sherbrooke chemical engineering student accomplished this feat after only five years in CrossFit, a sport she took up after looking for a way to keep fit after her gymnastics career ended. Her victory came in her fifth shot at the CrossFit Games and followed a disappointing 16th-place finish last year. 'Last year it was my worst finish ever,' she told CBC. 'Last year was a little wake-up call for me. [Commonwealth Games: Canada's Beauchemin-Nadeau captures gold in weightlifting] 'Last year I realized what I needed to do to win and how much I had to have this mental fortitude in all of my training to be able to claim the first spot. Sometimes when you lose, you win. That's what happened last year. It gave me the opportunity to really face myself and get a lot better.' Leblanc-Bazinet believes her victory will do a lot to promote the image of female athletes in Canada. 'I think it's changing the way we see women overall,' she told the Post. 'There's this huge movement, 'Strong is the new skinny' and women are just so proud of feeling strong. It's wonderful to see that.' She also hopes it will improve the image of CrossFit, which critics have said is too demanding on the body and even dangerous. 'I think it's a lot of misinformation,' she said. 'I don't know anyone who does more volume than me - or lifts as much weight - and I'm not injured. If you have the right knowledge and people teach you the right technique and progressively take you higher into that intensity, there's no such thing as injury.' Her training schedule alone might back that up. She spends between four and six hours a day training, six days a week. On her 'off' day, she just runs or swims. If she can do this and avoid injury, the sport can't be that dangerous. And it can be lucrative. Thorisdottir, the 2010 and 2011 winner, was featured in Vogue magazine and Leblanc-Bazinet is already getting offers. 'Since yesterday everything got crazy,' she said. 'My agent is dealing with everyone right now but I know there is a lot coming.' That could make life even more hectic for Leblanc-Bazinet, who is married and works out at a cross-fit club owned by her parents. 'As one of my classmates told me: I have no life - not even watching TV ,' she told CBC. 'I always tell everyone as a joke that washing my hair is overrated.' Leblanc-Bazinet said she will celebrate her achievement next week, after taking a break for final exams. Post By http://embed.ly/docs/explore/extract?url=https://ca.sports.yahoo.com/blogs/the-eh-game/meet-camille-leblanc-bazinet-world-fittest-woman-164944061.html</div>

Hot News: Meet Camille Leblanc-Bazinet: the world's fittest woman

Camille Leblanc-Bazinet ( Facebook) If you asked the average Canadian to name the country's fittest female, you might hear such names as...

11:48 AM

Hot News: The Bachelorette finale: The drama, the romance and the Fantasy Suite shocker

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><img height="300" src="http://beta.images.theglobeandmail.com/edd/arts/television/article19766205.ece/ALTERNATES/w140/25273573.jpeg" width="100%"/> The course of true love never did run smooth, but the road was rockier than usual in last night's finale of The Bachelorette. In the love-connection series' final torrid romantic denouement, the soon-to-be-unsingle lady Andi Dorfman was the object of affection of two handsome young suitors. Television Andi sent the runner-up home early and then accepted a marriage proposal from her last man standing. And take note: If you haven't watched last night's finale of The Bachelorette, take heed that all spoiler alerts apply from this point onward. Going into the closer, regular viewers of The Bachelorette were split over which of the two eligible bachelors were the best choice to become Andi's life partner. In one corner, there was Nick Viall, an ambitious if impetuously romantic software executive with a penchant for accent scarves. In the other corner, Josh Murray, a former pro baseball player with a dazzling smile and bulging biceps. Decisions, decisions. But in keeping with her regular duties as an Atlanta district attorney (she took leave to film the series), Dorfman covered all the bases in determining which of the two alpha males were best suited to her particular needs. And so it began with Andi taking Nick to the Dominican Republic to meet her parents. Nick was understandably a nervous wreck, and perhaps even more so after Andi's mom, Patti, helpfully pointed out that her daughter and Nick weren't holding hands. Thanks, Mom! While in the DR, Nick actually made Andi cry by professing his true love for her. Ain't love grand? And while Andi's parents appeared rather meh about the man courting their daughter, her father, Hy, admitted that he could see Nick as a potential son-in-law. Next came Josh's turn to meet Andi's parents, and it was not uneventful. Based on first impressions, Andi's mom immediately fretted that Josh was too loud and boisterous. Andi's sister Rachel stated her concerns about Josh being too similar to Andi's previous boyfriends. Andi's father, meanwhile, was an easy win: He and Josh were wearing similar outfits - purple-ish shirts and white shorts - which seemed to be all that was required to win the old boy over. With all parental duties dispensed, it came time for Andi to enjoy one last date with each of her handsome men. And since they were already in the sparkling blue waters of the Caribbean, why not kick off with a yachting trip? As per every date on The Bachelorette, Andi's luxury boat trip with Josh was a case of breathtaking scenery interjected with brief flashes of conversation. In this instance, Andi finally let go of her persistent hangup about how Josh was too much 'her type' (how many ex-jocks has this girl dated anyway?). To his credit, Josh scored some major points when he gave Andi a baseball card complete with stats about their romance. Next came Nick's date with Andi. The couple went on an off-roading excursion, which seemed uneventful but ended with Nick giving Andi a necklace filled with sand from the beach where he first told her he loved her. In his awkward, perhaps insecure manner, Nick pestered Andi to divulge his place in her heart and repeatedly asked her to assure him he wouldn't be heartbroken when the dust settled. The word 'needy' springs to mind. Andi was vague, but Nick seemed satisfied with her comment that he was still in the running. Cut to: Josh meeting with celebrity jeweller Neil Lane to pick out the perfect engagement ring. Nick was just about to do likewise, but instead he received a surprise visit from Andi. You could practically see the terror on Nick's face. And Nick had good reason to be worried, given Andi's habit of eliminating males before they ever get to the rose ceremony. The lady simply knows what she wants, right? Turns out Nick was right to be worried. In no uncertain terms, Andi told him she felt something 'wasn't right' with them, and said she believed that being with Nick would cause her to 'over analyze everything.' For his part, Nick told Andi he wished she hadn't gotten his romantic hopes up. Nick looked a tad stunned on his ride to the airport, during which he called himself a 'fool.' When you're right, you're right, Nick. And just like that - snap! - Nick was out of the picture and Andi was suddenly permitted to pursue her passion for Josh unfettered. Next came the lovey-dovey meeting we'd all been awaiting Josh met with Andi and gushed about her beautiful smile, among other things. Andi told Josh that she loved him from the moment she saw him and accepted his gracious marriage proposal. Naturally, she gave him the final rose. The more interesting moments were saved for the After the Final Rose special, in which Josh and Andi revealed they are planning to wed in the spring of 2015. Back together for the first time in months since taping of The Bachelorette wrapped, Nick and Andi were reunited during the After the Final Rose special and it wasn't pretty. In his inimitable dogged way, Nick said he couldn't accept that Andi never loved him. And then Nick dropped a major bombshell, saying that if Andi didn't love him, then she probably shouldn't have slept with him. Say what now? Or as Nick put it: 'Feeling like you did, if you knew how in love with you I was, why did you make love with me?' As it turns out, Nick and Andi did more than play backgammon during their allotted time together in the Fantasy Suite. So much for the tradition of what happens in the Fantasy Suite stays in the Fantasy Suite. But Nick made a good point: If Andi was so head-over-heels in love with Josh, as she claimed, why was she knocking boots with Nick at the first given opportunity? Andi never really answered Nick's question, and the tenth season of The Bachelorette wrapped with Andi engaged to her hunky baseball player. As for living happily ever after, Nick will always have his Fantasy Suite memories. Ain't love grand? Follow us on Twitter: @globeandmail Post By http://www.theglobeandmail.com/life/celebrity-news/the-a-list/the-bachelorette-finale-the-drama-the-romance-and-the-fantasy-suite-shocker/article19818704/</div>

Hot News: The Bachelorette finale: The drama, the romance and the Fantasy Suite shocker

The course of true love never did run smooth, but the road was rockier than usual in last night's finale of The Bachelorette. In the lov...

8:39 AM

Hot News: Aid urgently needed for deadly Ebola outbreak: Canadian doctor

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><img height="300" src="http://wpmedia.news.nationalpost.com/2014/07/ebola_940.jpg?w=353&h=188" width="100%"/> The response to West Africa's Ebola outbreak has been 'suboptimal,' says a Canadian doctor who recently returned from Guinea, adding more outside aid is urgently needed to help treat the fast-spreading and virulent disease. The World Health Organization says the outbreak is the largest ever recorded - more than 670 people in Liberia, Guinea and Sierra Leone have died since it began this year. There is no cure and Ebola kills 90% of those it infects, depending on the strain; the current outbreak is killing about 70%. Symptoms include fever, severe weakness and muscle pain and headache, which leads to vomiting and diarrhea. 'On the clinical side, the disease is not exactly what we've seen in the movies. It's not a spectacular disease. Most patients have very common symptoms that you can relate to,' said Dr. Marc Forget, 45, a general practitioner from Montreal who spent more than six weeks in the field. 'There is nothing specific to Ebola and that's what makes it even more difficult to fight because people don't think they have Ebola at first. Even when Ebola strikes, they think it's probably just malaria and then they get sicker and sicker.' Dr. Forget was working in Gueckedou, a forest region on the borders of Liberia and Sierra Leone, part of a mission organized by Médecins Sans Frontières. Although he has 12 years experience working for the MSF, including stints in South Sudan and Haiti, this was his first encounter with Ebola, trying to ensure the disease didn't spread to relatives of infected patients. 'A lot of the work was explaining what we're doing ... explaining why we isolated [family members] and everything,' said Dr. Forget. Many people were in denial about the disease and blamed MSF workers for it. '[They] associated the coming of NGOs and expats and WHO workers with the Ebola outbreak,' he said. 'They kind of made the conclusion that we brought [Ebola].' The disease is spreads by close contact with the bodily fluids of the infected, even after death. But in Guinea, the need to isolate patients directly conflicts with cultural beliefs. Locals believe if the infected people aren't properly looked after, they might come back as ghosts, haunting those who neglected them. Another local tradition is for families to wash and bury their bodies of their loved ones themselves, which significantly increases the risk of catching Ebola. After family members, health workers are usually the first to contract a disease during an epidemic, says Dr. Forget. Two American aid workers have tested positive for Ebola while working at a hospital in Liberia and a well-known Liberian doctor has died. 'You need to be worried because it's a deadly disease, but if you follow all the guidelines and protocols - all the procedures that we have to put the gear on, to remove the gear, you're sprayed on and on every step you do - it doesn't reduce the risk to zero but very close to that,' said Dr. Forget, comparing the procedures to military-like standards. 'Any breach in that protocol will create a risk.' But he adds he felt felt secure in Guinea. 'I was sick at one point and I had a stomach upset. I started thinking, of course, 'Oh my god, did I catch it?' But what reassured me was that I had followed all the protocols and the procedures so anxiously, so obsessively, that I knew that it was probably just something else and it was,' he said. 'On the clinical side, the disease is not exactly what we've seen in the movies. It's not a spectacular disease' As Ebola continues to spread, Dr. Forget says more foreign healthcare staff and treatment centres are urgently needed in the regions most affected. Because there is no cure, doctors can only rely on antibiotics to contain the disease and prevent other simultaneous infections. In a region where people are suspicious of foreign medical practices is strong, public education is key. 'If you have Ebola, the outreach team will go to your village and will spray the house so we can decontaminate everything. After one week, everybody that you were in contact with that you transmitted the virus to will start being sick themselves and they make the association with spraying of the house and spreading of the disease,' said Dr. Forget. 'That will bring a mistrust that is very hard to defeat.' Despite the risk, the physician expects to return to the region. 'Am I going to go for an Ebola mission? Probably,' he said. 'I'm a die-hard MSF, I guess.' Post By http://news.nationalpost.com/2014/07/28/aid-urgently-needed-for-deadly-ebola-outbreak-canadian-doctor/</div>

Hot News: Aid urgently needed for deadly Ebola outbreak: Canadian doctor

The response to West Africa's Ebola outbreak has been 'suboptimal,' says a Canadian doctor who recently returned from Guinea, ad...

5:34 AM

Hot News: Eid 2014: Facts and History on the Islamic Festival After Ramadan

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><img height="300" src="http://img.ibtimes.com/www/data/images/middle/2014/07/28/449850-a-filipino-muslim-looks-at-her-mobile-phone-while-waiting-for-morning-.jpg" width="100%"/> Eid al-Fitr is a holiday that marks the end of Ramadan, the holy month of fasting in Islam. Also known as the Festival of Fast-Breaking, it is celebrated on the first day of Shawwal, the month that comes after Ramadan in the Islamic calendar, and lasts up to three days in some countries. It is one of the two major Islamic festivals with Eid al-Adha or the Feast of Sacrifice being the other one. REUTERS/Erik De Castro A Filipino Muslim looks at her mobile phone while waiting for morning prayers to begin, during the celebration of Eid al-Fitr, marking the end of the holy month of Ramadan, early morning at a public park in Manila July 28, 2014. REUTERS/Erik De Castro It is difficult to accurately predict the date of Eid al-Fitr according to the Gregorian calendar. This is because the month of Ramadan ends simultaneously with the beginning of Shawwal at the confirmed sighting of the new moon. The new moon may be sighted at different times in different locations. and so, Muslims all over the world may celebrate Eid al-Fitr on different dates. This year 2014, Eid al-Fitr is expected to occur on the 28th or 29th of July. History of Eid al-FitrAs held by Islamic tradition, one night in Ramadan in 610 A.D., while meditating at Mount Hira, the Prophet Muhammad had a vision of the angel Jibril, the messenger of Allah. It was at this time that the first recitation of the Quran was revealed to him. Over 23 years, the Prophet continued to receive visitations from the angel Jibril who recited to him the holy knowledge in verses. The Prophet would memorize the verses automatically after receiving them. He would then recite them to whoever was in his company and ordered them to write it down immediately. This compilation of sacred knowledge became the Quran (The Recitation), the holiest book in Islam. As respect to Allah and in gratitude for His revelation the Prophet ordered all followers of Islam to spend the month of Ramadan in fasting and prayer and end the month-long fast with festivities. And thus, the Eid al-Fitr was born. The festival aims to promote peace and brotherhood, as well as to bring the devout back to the everyday course of life after a month of non-indulgence and spiritual devotion. How is Eid al-Fitr celebrated?Before the end of Eid, each Muslim family gives a donation of actual food-rice, dates, barley, etcetera-to the poor to ensure that they have a holiday meal and can join in the celebrations. This donation is called sadaqah al-fitr or charity of fast-breaking. The day of Eid begins with an early bath, and then Muslims put on their best clothes and gather to outdoor locations or their nearby mosques to attend the Eid prayer ceremonies that consists of a sermon and the Eid prayer. The Eid prayer is different from the five obligatory prayers. It can be done in between the dawn and mid-day prayers. Muslims go and visit family and friends after the Eid prayer to forgive old wrongs or just wish them Allah's peace and blessings. Special delicacies are prepared to celebrate the occasion and greeting cards are exchanged. Children receive gifts of toys and new clothes from the adults. How is Eid celebrated in: Eid in is celebrated not just a break of fast, but as a day of festivities as well. Preparations for the Eid begins days ahead. The feast typically opens with dried fruits and dates with fruit juices for starters and builds up into an elaborate feast that consists of a hundred dishes, including mango puffs, fried prawns, kebabs, biryani and the ever popular drink Rooh-Afza. 2. Arabia Regarded as an important Islamic country in the world, Arabia opens its Eid festivities with fantastic starters then moves on to elaborate main courses, sweets and traditional Eid delicacies, drinks and desserts. One such traditional delicacy that is always in demand during Eid is hijazi deibaza made with dates, dried apricots and mixed nuts 3. Turkey In large cities like Istanbul, Eid is celebrated with fashion and high taste. Restaurants offer special Eid deals and start the meal with a popular soup called iftariye. The main course consists of traditional dishes and delicacies. 4. The Emirates Sweets such as chocolates, candies, jalebi and hares abound during the Eid while traditional dishes such as ouzi, khameer, ghuraiba and maamoul are served. Kvass, a traditional n drink made from rye bread, is commonly served to quell the thirst of the day-long fast. It is considered non-alcoholic by Russian standards. 6. U.S. and Canada Eid meals and celebrations in the U.S. and Canada are often held in households, mosques and Islamic community centers. The United States Department of State hosts a dinner on the eve of Eid for national and local community leaders, faith groups and foreign policy officials. Family gatherings are served with traditional ian food, such as fatta, a noodle-like pastry called konafa, and the ever popular kahk or cookies filled with nuts and powdered with sugar. Preparations for Eid begins ten days prior to the day itself while the festivities lasts for three days. Guests are served with traditional Eid delicacies such as jelabi, a dish made with chick peas called shor-nakhod, and a simple cake called ka kolcha, which is similar to pound cake. Annual festivities for the celebration of the Eid al-Fitr is held in the Trafalgar Square in where it features stalls, exhibitions, live entertainment and children's activities. To contact the editor, e-mail: Post By http://au.ibtimes.com/articles/560828/20140729/eid-2014-al-fitr.htm</div>

Hot News: Eid 2014: Facts and History on the Islamic Festival After Ramadan

Eid al-Fitr is a holiday that marks the end of Ramadan, the holy month of fasting in Islam. Also known as the Festival of Fast-Breaking, it ...

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