Shaquille O’Neal Suggests That Stevie Wonder Isn’t Actually Blind: “He Was Like, ‘What’s Up Shaq?’”
Add Shaquille O’Neal‘s name to the list of conspiracy theorists who believe that Stevie Wonder isn’t actually blind. On Thursday night’s episode of Inside the NBA, Shaq furthered the unsubstantiated theory when he recalled a recent interaction with Wonder, who lives in the same apartment building as him. The former NBA star said that he once ran into Wonder in the lobby, and the blind musician immediately recognized him. “He comes in, says, ‘What’s up, Shaq?’ Presses the button,” said Shaq. “It’s a true story.”
Last night on Inside the NBA, the panel took a break from hyping up Joel Embiid to discuss Stevie Wonder. In a clip that has since gone viral, Shaq tells his co-hosts that he has “a Stevie Wonder story, but [they’re] not gonna believe it.” Ernie Johnson questions him, but Kenny Smith insists that the former MVP has to spill the tea. “I know the story! He’s gotta tell it,” says Smith.ADVERTISEMENT
“It’s a true story,” says Shaq. “So, we live in a building on Wilshire. So you park your car and the valet’s down there. So I’m already in the building, I’m coming through the lobby. Door opens, it’s Stevie Wonder. He comes in, says, ‘What’s up, Shaq?’ Presses the button –”
When his co-hosts burst out laughing, Shaq again insists that this is “a true story.” Continues the former NBA star, “Presses the button, gets off on his floor, goes to his room. I went and called every person I knew and told them this story. And they believed me.”
“For real. He got on the elevator, he was like, ‘What’s up, Shaq? How you doing, big dog?’” says Shaq. “Yes, he did. Wilshire Boulevard.”
For what it’s worth, there’s no actual evidence to suggest that Stevie Wonder isn’t blind, despite conspiracy theories that suggest otherwise. Just saying.
Photo Credit: twitter
Woman in Australia finds 10-foot python in her Christmas tree
There are many ways to decorate a Christmas tree — from monotone minimalism to old-school kitsch.
But for one woman in Australia , the seasonal theme was very big snakes, when she got home to find a 10-foot python adorning her tree.
Leanne Chapman and her partner returned to their home in Brisbane, Queensland on Thursday, and noticed a commotion on their balcony.
“We came home from work and there’s a couple of butcher birds that visit every day and they were just kicking off on the balcony, going crazy,” Chapman told CNN affiliate 7News.
Chapman, who is originally from England, told 7News that her partner started to video the birds, and leaning on the tree — not realizing what lay wrapped around it.
“As he’s turned around and stepped back, he didn’t realise he was leaning on the Christmas tree with the snake wrapped around it,” she told 7News.
The couple left the snake alone, and later that night, it slithered away.
“It wasn’t bothered by us. It just stayed there for a good few hours as we watched it through the window,” Chapman said.
It was only when the reptile moved from its position that the couple realized how big it was.
“It was big — really big,” Chapman said.
“After the initial shock wore off, it was a really beautiful snake,” she said.
“It was actually quite nice to see it that close up because I’ve never seen anything like it before,” she added.
Photo Credit: pix11.com
Microsoft unveils new XBOX console at Game Awards
NEW YORK — Microsoft just unveiled its next generation video game console : The Xbox Series X.
The new Xbox , which will be released during the 2020 holiday season, resembles a PC tower and is far taller than its predecessor, the Xbox One X.
The new gaming console was previously codenamed “Project Scarlett.” Microsoft said in June that it will be “four times” more powerful than the Xbox One X and comes with more memory, higher resolution and better graphics. At that time, Microsoft also revealed its holiday 2020 timeline and said the console will launch alongside the latest game in its popular “Halo” franchise.
The company refreshes gaming consoles every few years. The last major release — the Xbox One — launched in 2013. An improved version of that console, called the Xbox One S, came out in 2016, followed by the One X in 2017.
The Xbox Series X will come with a new Bluetooth-enabled controller that’s a little smaller than previous ones, which may be friendlier to hands of different sizes. Microsoft has not yet announced a price for the console itself.
The unveiling comes a couple of months after Sony confirmed that its next console , the PlayStation 5, will also launch in 2020 for the holiday season. That system is expected to have faster load speeds, better graphics and improved audio. What the PlayStation 5 looks like, though, is still a mystery.
via: https://www.pix11.com/news/national-news/xbox-series-x-microsoft-unveils-new-console-at-game-awards
Photo Credit: Microsoft
PORSHA WILLIAMS WANTS TO HAVE BABY NO. 2 BEFORE DAUGHTER’S NEXT BIRTHDAY
Real Housewives of Atlanta star Porsha Williams is already mother to nine-month-old Pilar Jhena and wants to have baby number two, but has given herself a timeline to do it.
The reality star opened up on Dish Nation about extending their family and both would like it to happen sooner than later or else it may be a no-go.
“PJ needs someone to play with. We are talking about it and if it does not happen by PJ’s birthday or by June — my birthday next year — then it won’t be happening. If it happens, it happens. I don’t really have to try. Just lay there,” she said on the talk show program. “I always say, if you are married, go [ahead], be fruitful. That’s what you’re supposed to do. Have as many kids and multiply. Have as many kids as y’all want, and y’all can afford … My thing is, I, at least, want [Pilar] to be able to sit up on her own. … I’m an old horse. I’ve got maybe one more good one in me. It could be twins.”
Article via BCKOnline
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A Man Hacked Into a Family’s Ring Camera and Spoke to Their Kid in Her Room
Home-security cameras were created to surveil the property and give families peace of mind. But for the LeMay family, their experience with the Ring camera was nothing short of a nightmare.
Ashley LeMay purchased the Ring security camera during a Black Friday sale for the bedroom where all three of her daughters sleep, reports WMC5 News. The camera allowed the mom to watch and speak to her girls from the convenience of her phone, while she worked night shifts. But four days after installing the device, Ashley’s 8-year-old daughter Alyssa heard a strange music-like noise and banging sound coming from her room. When she went to go check it out, a man’s voice was coming directly from the Ring camera.
“I’m your best friend. I’m Santa Claus,” the unidentified, faceless man said. Alyssa, all alone, called for her mom and kept asking “Who is that?” Fortunately, Ashley’s husband heard the commotion from his daughters’ room and was able to shut it down, as Ashley was out running an errand.
“They could have watched them sleeping, changing. I mean they could have seen all kinds of things,” Ashley tells WMC5 News. “Honestly, my gut it makes me feel like it’s either somebody who knows us or somebody who is very close by.” Since the incident, the camera has been disconnected and the LeMay family plans to return it. Ashley admits she had not set up the two-factor authentication for the Ring account, which would have added another level of protection against potential hackers.
A Ring spokesperson shared a statement with WMC5 News about the incident. They claimed it wasn’t actually a security breach, suggesting that someone may have cracked the username and password of the device, allowing them on to the account. Whether or not that’s true, this video sure gave us the chills, like an episode of Black Mirror come to life.
Some advice? Research the purchase of a security camera, always enable two-factor authentication, never give out your password, and change your log-in credentials frequently.
via: https://currently.att.yahoo.com/att/absolute-nightmare-man-hacked-familys-203500984.html
Photo Credit: twitter
Comedy Central’s Chris Cotton, 32, Dies Just Months Before His Wife Gives Birth
Comedy Central comedian Chris Cotton has died at the age of 32.
Cotton’s wife, Ericalynn Cotton, is pregnant with their first child and is reportedly due in February. The couple were reportedly high school sweethearts.
The up-and-coming star had just performed at NYC’s Caroline’s on Broadway comedy club last week as part of its Breakout Artist Comedy Series, and he had appeared on Comedy Central numerous times.
Comedy Central issued a statement reacting to the tragic news on Twitter on Thursday.
As the statement read, “We’re devastated by the loss of Chris Cotton – a hilarious comedian, a beloved member of the Comedy Central family and a joy to be around. He will be missed.” Friends of the late star are also mourning the heartbreaking loss.
Broad City actor Hannibal Buress mourned the loss of his friend on Twitter. As he wrote, “A few weeks ago Chris Cotton randomly hit me up to thank me for a gig I got him YEARS ago that led to some other work for him.”
“I was in the middle of booking Isola Fest and booked him during the call,” Buress continued. “I was psyched to see him this weekend. RIP.”
Stand-up comedian Michelle Biloon tweeted, “What a total sh*t year. Philly lost a great comic and a truly great person. My heart goes out to the family of Chris Cotton and all those close to him. Chris was also about to be a dad.”
The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon writer Nate Dern quoted Comedy Central’s tweet and said, “Chris Cotton was a beautiful person with so much love to give. Everyone loved him instantly. He regularly made me laugh so hard that I cried. I am honored that I got to work with him and know him. Love you, Chris. Rest In Peace.”
Originally from Philadelphia, Cotton frequented the Philly and NYC comedy circuits and had written a book called What My Dad Did: My Theory on Joke Writing.
In the wake of his heartbreaking death, a GoFundMe page has been set up in his honor. All of the funds will be given to his wife. The couple had also set up an Amazon baby registry.
Our hearts are with his loved ones during this difficult time.
Article via EOnline
Tommy Hilfiger: I Need to Work with Lizzo … She’s a Star!!!
Lizzo is going to be VERY busy in 2020 … especially if Tommy Hilfiger can get her people on the line, because he’s got big plans for the singer.
Tommy was leaving an Autism Speaks event Wednesday night at David Yurman Jewelry in L.A., and we asked about his upcoming collabs. He’s already said he and J. Balvin will be getting creative in the fashion arena … so we wanted to know what else he’s got cooking, and with whom.
He said there’s a long list of big names he wants to team up with, but when pressed to name just one … L-I-Z-Z-O rolled off his tongue. You gotta see it, because you know Tommy can line up just about anyone in show biz — but he was totally beaming when Lizzo came up.
And, btw, all that controversy over Lizzo’s assless outfit at the Lakers game this week … it’s not scaring off the Hilfiger brand. Tommy told us why he’s anxious to work with her, no matter what she’s wearing.
One word: “Star.”
Article via TMZ
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‘Star Wars’ actor John Boyega apologizes for Kelly Marie Tran comments
John Boyega has apologized for comments he made about social media bullying, which many people theorized were alluding to his co-star Kelly Marie Tran, who was forced to quit social media after online abuse.
“Being in this position, you just understand the masses, how the masses think, you know. Through social media, we get to engage, we get to have fun,” Boyega said in a Dec. 11 interview with Variety. “But at the same time, for those who are not mentally strong, you are weak to believe in every single thing that you read. That’s, you know, it is what it is.”
The “Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker” actor continued, “I don’t know, for me anyway, when I see that [backlash], I’m like, well, that’s actually not true. But no, it is actually not true. So it’s kind of like [shrugs] it is what it is. But to engage, to connect with the fans who otherwise wouldn’t get a day-to-day experience, especially during things like the press tour, and behind-the-scenes stuff, is always good.”
After many felt he was throwing shade at Tran, Boyega took to Twitter to clarify his comments.
“In no way was I referring to Kelly when I made my comments although the interviewer mentioned her given the topic. I was really speaking from my own perspective throughout this franchise,” Boyega, 27, tweeted. “Sometimes I’ve felt strong and sometimes I’ve felt weak. Badly worded though. I apologize.”
He added, “My comments on Kelly specifically and online harassment remains the same via a tweet I put out a few years ago.”
In 2018, Boyega urged the “Star Wars” fan base to leave Tran, who joined the franchise as character Rose Tico, alone.
“If you don’t like Star Wars or the characters, understand that there are decision makers and harassing the actors/actresses will do nothing,” he tweeted. “You’re not entitled to politeness when your approach is rude. Even if you paid for a ticket!”
Article via Page Six
House passes sweeping Pelosi bill to lower drug prices
The House on Thursday passed a sweeping bill aimed at lowering prescription drug prices, a step toward a long-held Democratic goal that was met with sharp Republican resistance.
The bill passed on a largely party-line vote of 230-192. The measure, which would allow the government to negotiate lower prices for prescription drugs, is one of House Democrats’ top priorities and is expected to be touted by vulnerable Democrats up for reelection next year.
The party is also looking to show that it is focused on kitchen table issues like lowering drug costs even as lawmakers prepare for an impeachment vote against President Trump.ADVERTISEMENT
“What I hear most often is not impeachment, it’s not what’s on the front page of The Washington Post, it’s ‘What are you going to do about the cost of our prescription drugs?’ ” said Rep. Kim Schrier (D-Wash.), one of several freshmen facing competitive reelection races who showcased the bill on the Capitol steps Thursday. “And this bill is an answer to my constituents.”
Two Republicans voted in favor of the bill: Reps. Brian Fitzpatrick (Pa.) and Jaime Herrera Beutler (Wash.), both moderates who face competitive reelection races next year. No Democrats voted against the bill.
The measure drew support from progressives following months of negotiations that cleared the way for it to pass this week. The bill is almost certain to die in the GOP-led Senate, though, given that Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) has called it “socialist” and vowed to block it. Republicans warn the measure would hinder the development of new treatments and impose “price controls.”
It is possible that smaller measures to lower drug prices could become law, given a bipartisan push to do something on the topic, but a path forward remains unclear amid division and multiple competing proposals.
Pelosi had tried for months to win Trump’s support for the bill, given that he broke from Republican orthodoxy and supported government negotiation on drug prices during his 2016 campaign.
After months of talks between Pelosi’s staff and the White House, though, the administration came out against the measure, leading Democrats to say Trump is breaking his promise to support negotiation for lower prices.ADVERTISEMENT
“It’s exactly what President Trump promised on the campaign trail,” said Rep. Andy Levin (D-Mich.).
The House on Thursday passed a sweeping bill aimed at lowering prescription drug prices, a step toward a long-held Democratic goal that was met with sharp Republican resistance.
The bill passed on a largely party-line vote of 230-192. The measure, which would allow the government to negotiate lower prices for prescription drugs, is one of House Democrats’ top priorities and is expected to be touted by vulnerable Democrats up for reelection next year.
The party is also looking to show that it is focused on kitchen table issues like lowering drug costs even as lawmakers prepare for an impeachment vote against President Trump.ADVERTISEMENT
“What I hear most often is not impeachment, it’s not what’s on the front page of The Washington Post, it’s ‘What are you going to do about the cost of our prescription drugs?’ ” said Rep. Kim Schrier (D-Wash.), one of several freshmen facing competitive reelection races who showcased the bill on the Capitol steps Thursday. “And this bill is an answer to my constituents.”
Two Republicans voted in favor of the bill: Reps. Brian Fitzpatrick (Pa.) and Jaime Herrera Beutler (Wash.), both moderates who face competitive reelection races next year. No Democrats voted against the bill.
The measure drew support from progressives following months of negotiations that cleared the way for it to pass this week. The bill is almost certain to die in the GOP-led Senate, though, given that Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) has called it “socialist” and vowed to block it. Republicans warn the measure would hinder the development of new treatments and impose “price controls.”
It is possible that smaller measures to lower drug prices could become law, given a bipartisan push to do something on the topic, but a path forward remains unclear amid division and multiple competing proposals.
Pelosi had tried for months to win Trump’s support for the bill, given that he broke from Republican orthodoxy and supported government negotiation on drug prices during his 2016 campaign.
After months of talks between Pelosi’s staff and the White House, though, the administration came out against the measure, leading Democrats to say Trump is breaking his promise to support negotiation for lower prices.ADVERTISEMENT
“It’s exactly what President Trump promised on the campaign trail,” said Rep. Andy Levin (D-Mich.).
Trump is instead supporting a more modest bipartisan bill in the Senate to lower drug prices, legislation that does not include a provision to negotiate prices.
The House bill, known as the Elijah E. Cummings Lower Drug Costs Now Act, is named for the late Democratic lawmaker who was a champion of lowering drug prices.
The legislation would allow the secretary of Health and Human Services to negotiate lower prices for a minimum of 50 drugs per year, up to a maximum of 250 drugs. The prices for those drugs would also be capped at 120 percent of the prices in certain other wealthy countries. The government would then negotiate to bring prices down even further below that cap.
The lower prices would apply to people on private insurance in addition to those on Medicare.
If a drug company refused to negotiate, the company would be hit with a tax up to 95 percent of the revenue for the drug.
That steep penalty has led Republicans to argue the bill is not really “negotiation” as Democrats claim, but is effectively just mandating the price that drug companies must sell their products at.
The White House said the bill would impose “price controls” in its message threatening to veto the measure.
Progressive House Democrats had resisted the bill from the other direction, arguing that the measure did not go far enough. Reps. Pramila Jayapal (D-Wash.) and Mark Pocan (D-Wis.), along with Rep. Lloyd Doggett (D-Texas), spent months pushing Pelosi to make the bill tougher.
In recent days they threatened to try to block a vote on the bill unless changes were made, but struck a deal with Pelosi after a meeting in the Speaker’s office Tuesday, clearing the way for the bill to pass with minimal drama. One of the changes increased the minimum number of drugs to be negotiated from 35 to 50.
The Congressional Budget Office (CBO) found the bill would lower prices by about 50 percent for drugs subject to negotiation and save $456 billion over 10 years. The bill then invests those savings in expanding Medicare benefits to include hearing, dental and vision care.
On the other hand, the CBO also found the bill would result in eight fewer drugs being developed over a decade, out of about 300 usually introduced in that time period. ADVERTISEMENT
House Republicans put forward a competing proposal that also received a vote Thursday. Their bill is much smaller in scale. Republicans touted it as leading to lower prices without imposing “price controls” or threatening the development of new drugs.
House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) called the Democratic bill a move to “appease the progressive base and have a partisan bill that denies us more cures,” while calling the GOP alternative a “practical solution” that would still allow new cures to come to market.
Democrats say polling shows the public is behind their bill. The progressive group Data for Progress on Thursday released polling testing different messages about the bill and finding strong support. Opposition never rose above 40 percent even when voters were presented with only negative messages about the bill.
Pelosi said on the House floor on Thursday that she did not know why the White House stopped working with her on the drug pricing bill.
“We were working with the interests of the White House, the administration, on all of this,” she said. “I don’t where it happened, but somewhere along the way, negotiation and the rest fell by the by. And what that could be attributed to, I don’t know what.”
Article via TheHill