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The Browns have repeatedly expressed faith in veteran quarterback Brian Hoyer despite another coaching change this offseason. But actions speak louder than words, and apparently the organization is now ready to take action.
Hoyer's camp, however, might not be.
The Browns are trying to sign Hoyer to a contract extension, his agent, Joe Linta, confirmed for the Beacon Journal. ESPN's Adam Schefter first reported the news this morning. Hoyer is scheduled to become an unrestricted free agent next March.
Still, the Browns would catch some observers off guard by completing a new deal for Hoyer before the 2014 season because of the unknowns surrounding him.To read more or comment...
Cleveland Browns quarterback Johnny Manziel is in Berea today taking part in a youth football clinic as part of the NFL's Rookie Symposium. Here are a few things he had to say:
#Browns QB Johnny Manziel just finished speaking. Said he'll continue to enjoy himself on weekends & doesn't think he's doing anything wrongTo read more or comment...
Browns director of communications Zak Gilbert is resigning. A replacement has yet to be named.
The Browns hired Gilbert on June 24, 2013. He was previously the media relations director for the Oakland Raiders.
The team announced the move today in the news release below.
Zak Gilbert is resigning from his position as Director of Communications. The statement that he wanted to release is below, as well as sentiments and a statement from Alec Scheiner.
"We greatly appreciate Zak's efforts, work ethic and contributions to the Cleveland Browns organization," said Browns President Alec Scheiner. "He has been a true professional, and we wish him and his family the best moving forward."To read more or comment...
Everybody seems to have an opinion about the off-field behavior of Browns rookie quarterback Johnny Manziel.
Among those who have weighed in on Manziel's persistent partying:
*Hall of Fame running back Emmitt Smith
*Manziel's former Texas A&M teammates Mike Evans and Jake MatthewsTo read more or comment...
The Browns announced today that executive vice president Bryan Wiedmeier has signed a contract extension.
Wiedmeier is playing a vital role in FirstEnergy Stadium's $120 million renovation project. He will enter his fifth season with the Browns this fall.
Business aside, Wiedmeier has been an inspiration to everyone in his life since being diagnosed with an aggressive form of brain cancer in October 2012. Click here for a story from our archives about Wiedmeier's situation.
Below is a news release from the Browns about Wiedmeier's contract extension..To read more or comment...
Hall of Fame running back Emmitt Smith believes Browns rookie quarterback Johnny Manziel won't last long in the NFL if he continues to party on a regular basis.
The 21-year-old Manziel has partied the past five weekends. His off-field behavior in recent weeks – from riding an inflatable swan while drinking out of a big bottle of alcohol to dropping an F-bomb on video while pretending a stack of cash was a phone – has sparked a debate about whether he's as committed to becoming an NFL quarterback as he should be.
Smith wasn't shy about revealing which side of the argument he's on regarding Manziel, the 22nd overall pick in this year's draft who'll compete with veteran Brian Hoyer this summer for the Browns' starting quarterback job.
"That lifestyle is going to be a short lifestyle -- a short career lifestyle -- if [Manziel] continues that," Smith said Tuesday during a radio interview with 105.3 FM in Dallas. "As we used to say, you can't keep burning the candle at both ends of the stick. The candle gets small fairly quick. So Johnny is going to have to figure it out.To read more or comment...
Add basketball to the growing list of sports in which Johnny Manziel has been drafted.
The Cleveland Browns rookie quarterback was drafted by the Harlem Globetrotters today after being selected in the MLB Draft by the San Diego Padres earlier this month.
"Johnny Manziel is a fantastic athlete that knows how to be entertaining," Globetrotters Director of Player Personnel "Sweet" Lou Dunbar said in a release. "'Johnny Basketball' has a nice ring to it, doesn't it?"To read more or comment...
Browns All-Pro wide receiver Josh Gordon is appealing a suspension from the NFL and playing the waiting game regarding an outcome.
The patience of the Browns and their fans is being tested at least in part because an appeal hearing has yet to be scheduled, ProFootballTalk.com reported tonight.
On May 9, ESPN reported that Gordon tested positive for marijuana and faces a potential season-long ban as a result. A repeat offender of the league's substance-abuse policy, Gordon is appealing in an effort to have the suspension reduced.To read more or comment...
The Browns unveiled their entire player personnel staff this evening. The team outlined the details in the news release below.
BEREA, Ohio – The Cleveland Browns have made six additions to their player personnel staff, and promoted three individuals from within. General Manager Ray Farmer made the announcement Monday.
In addition to executive chief of staff Bill Kuharich and vice president of player personnel Morocco Brown, added earlier this month, the team on Monday named Charles Bailey, Bobby DePaul, Mike Hagen, Ron Hill and James Kirkland senior personnel associates, and Scott Aligo player personnel associate. The Browns also promoted Sam DeLuca and Harrison Ritcher to player personnel associate, and promoted Colton Chapple to BLESTO scout.
"Assembling this group is an important step for our team," Farmer said. "These individuals operate out of the spotlight, but their work is critical to our success. And contrary to what some may think, scouts work 12 months out of the year. Their families sacrifice a lot, and I appreciate all the days scouts spend away from home. Our simple philosophy is to identify and acquire players who can return winning football to our loyal fans. We're committed to building our roster through the draft, developing that talent once it's here, and retaining it. Each of these people is central in that process."To read more or comment...
Five down, one to go.
Rookie guard Joel Bitonio agreed to terms with the Browns today on his rookie contract, the team announced. The Browns selected Bitonio in the second round (No. 35 overall) of last month's NFL Draft out of the University of Nevada.
Rookie cornerback Justin Gilbert (first round, No. 8) is now the only member of the franchise's 2014 draft class who has yet to reach a deal. In addition to Bitonio, quarterback Johnny Manziel (first round, No. 22), linebacker Christian Kirksey (third round, No. 71), running back Terrance West (third round, No. 94) and cornerback Pierre Desir (fourth round, No. 127) have wrapped up their deals well before the first full-squad practice of training camp July 26.To read more or comment...
@JManziel2 @GBHunting look what my hubby had put up in Tyler! pic.twitter.com/lkrkdMTEBL
A billboard in the hometown of rookie quarterback Johnny Manziel declares that Tyler, Texas, "is now Cleveland Browns territory."
A message at the bottom of the sign also expresses displeasure with the Dallas Cowboys for passing on Manziel with the 16th overall pick in last month's NFL Draft.
"Paid for by former Cowboys fans," the billboard reads.
The Browns, of course, traded up from No. 26 overall and took Manziel 22nd on May 8.To read more or comment...
The Browns announced this morning that their training camp will open to the public on July 26.
There will be 13 practices open to the public at the team's headquarters in Berea, plus the Family Day intrasquad scrimmage Aug. 2 at the University of Akron's InfoCision Stadium.
For all practices, including Family Day, fans will be required to register online and print a ticket for admission.
The practice schedule and more information about the registration process is outlined below in a news release from the Browns.
BEREA, Ohio -- The Cleveland Browns 2014 training camp will feature 13 free public practices at the team's facility in Berea, beginning July 26, as well as free access to the team's scrimmage during Family Day at InfoCision Stadium in Akron on Aug. 2, the club announced Friday.To read more or comment...
The Browns drafted Christian Kirksey in the third round last month to compete with Craig Robertson for the starting inside linebacker spot next to Karlos Dansby.
But after they cut veteran Quentin Groves two weeks ago and were left with only five outside linebackers, coach Mike Pettine revealed that they would experiment with Kirksey as an outside linebacker, too.
"I played a little bit of outside linebacker at Iowa," Kirksey said Thursday during a youth football clinic at FirstEnergy Stadium. "My mindset is wherever the team needs me to play, wherever the coach needs me to play, I'm just out there working and just trying to improve my game, just trying to have fun and play to the best of my abilities. So wherever coach wants me to play, that's what I'll do."
Pettine believes it's important to "cross-train" players at multiple positions.To read more or comment...
Browns coach Mike Pettine ruffled some feathers by suggesting to Sports Illustrated's Greg Bedard that the New England Patriots have gotten their hands on the New York Jets' playbook. Bedard's story published Thursday.
Pettine, who was the Jets' defensive coordinator under coach Rex Ryan from 2009-12, told Bedard a story about Patriots quarterback Tom Brady running into Jets outside linebackers coach Mike Smith at receiver Wes Welker's wedding and bragging about the Patriots possibly obtaining copies of the Jets' playbook.
"It didn't shock me because Rex would give them out like candy anyway," Pettine said. "He gave one out to [Alabama coach Nick] Saban and I was like, 'Don't you know Saban and [Patriots coach] Bill [Belichick] are pretty good friends? I have a feeling it's going to end up in New England.'"To read more or comment...
Browns cornerback Joe Haden is listed 39th on NFL Network's The Top 100 Players of 2014.
Players vote to form the list.
Haden's ranking was revealed tonight as players listed Nos. 31-40 were unveiled. It's the first time Haden has made the list. He's coming off a season in which he earned his first trip to the Pro Bowl and second-team All Pro honors.
Haden probably believes he deserves a better ranking because he thinks he's the best cornerback in the league. He made that clear shortly after he signed a five-year contract extension worth $68 million last month.To read more or comment...
Browns quarterback Johnny Manziel officially signed his rookie contract today, which became a formality after he agreed to the four-year, $8.25 million deal Tuesday.
So what does Manziel think about signing a contract that, according to Spotrac.com, includes a $4,318,000 signing bonus, $6,702,625 guaranteed and a team option for a fifth year?
"Incredible feeling to officially sign my NFL contract," Manziel wrote today on Instagram alongside a photograph of him signing the contract. "Such a dream come true and so many people to thank who have helped me reach this point in my life."
To read more or comment...
Former Browns quarterback Brady Quinn is not amused by rookie quarterback Johnny Manziel's latest party-scene antics.
Drafted 22nd overall by the Browns last month, Manziel recently made headlines when a video of him holding a stack of money to his ear and pretending it was a phone hit Instagram and went viral.
"I can't hear," Manziel said in the video. "There's too much money in my [bleeping] hand. I can't hear a thing."
The video not only served as evidence that Manziel partied for the fourth consecutive weekend, but it also struck Quinn as inappropriate.To read more or comment...
The Browns need reinforcements in their receiving corps as they brace for the NFL to hit All-Pro Josh Gordon with a potential season-long suspension, but Earl Bennett won't be riding to the rescue.
The Browns cut Bennett today, terminating the contract he signed May 15. The team announced the move.
Bennett, 27, and fellow veteran receiver Miles Austin, 29 joined the Browns a week after General Manager Ray Farmer decided not to address the position in the NFL Draft. Bennett spent his entire NFL career – the past six seasons – with the Chicago Bears. He caught 32 passes for 243 yards and four touchdowns in 2013.To read more or comment...
Johnny Manziel's signature hand gesture for making money is more fitting than ever because he agreed to terms with the Browns on his rookie contract today.
The team announced the deal in a news release.
Manziel's four-year contract is worth $8,247,250 and includes a $4,318,000 signing bonus and $6,702,625 guaranteed, according to Spotrac.com. The deal is worth an annual average salary of $2,061,813 and includes a team option for a fifth year.
The Browns traded up from No. 26 overall to No. 22, so they could nab Manziel in the first round of the NFL Draft on May 8.To read more or comment...
Browns President Alec Scheiner took reporters on a tour of FirstEnergy Stadium today as it continues to undergo renovations.
Scheiner discussed the project in the video posted above. Below are some images from the tour.
View from West end zone. One of the new scoreboards will go here: pic.twitter.com/LKx08ANRkf
Another view of where one of video boards will go. Will be 3 times size of old boards & 4th-largest boards in NFL: pic.twitter.com/f6TTx1ttXOTo read more or comment...
Browns outside linebacker Paul Kruger made some interesting comments about the team's quarterback competition today during a radio interview with KFAN (1320-AM), a station based in Salt Lake City, Utah.
Kruger made it clear that he's in veteran Brian Hoyer's corner. Hoyer will enter training camp in late July as the starting quarterback, coach Mike Pettine said last week, and he'll attempt to hold off rookie Johnny Manziel.
So how does Kruger see the competition playing out?
"Obviously, that's up to the staff and coaches, so they'll make that decision," said Kruger, who won a Super Bowl with the Baltimore Ravens to finish the 2012 season. "But in my mind, Hoyer's the guy. Hoyer came in, won us four games [actually he went 3-0 as a starter last season], unfortunately got hurt [torn ACL], but the guy was on fire when he was healthy. He's proven himself at different levels and has worked extremely hard.To read more or comment...
When Cleveland Browns training camp starts next month, several position battles will take place. Chief among them is quarterback where Brian Hoyer is trying to hold off first-round pick Johnny Manziel.
On this week's podcast, Akron Beacon Journal and Ohio.com Browns beat writer Nate Ulrich says what is keeping Manziel as the backup. It's not just the off-field partying. Nate also breaks down the running back, wide receiver, guard, inside linebacker and cornerback positions. Which do you think is the biggest issue for the Browns heading into training camp? Let us know in the comments.
To read more or comment...
The Browns hope rookie quarterback Johnny Manziel eventually throws bombs for touchdowns.
For now, he's just dropping a bomb – an F-bomb -- in a viral video.
The latest glimpse of Manziel's party-scene shenanigans began to circulate online this morning.
In a video posted on Instagram Sunday night that contains explicit language, Manziel holds a stack of money to his ear and pretends it's a phone. A couple of other men appear in the video laughing and egging him on.To read more or comment...
Cleveland native Chuck Noll, the Hall of Fame coach who won a record four Super Bowl titles with the Pittsburgh Steelers and played for the Browns, died Friday night at his home. He was 82.
The Allegheny County Medical Examiner said Noll died of natural causes.To read more or comment...
The Browns claimed tight end Emmanuel Ogbuehi off waivers from the Miami Dolphins today, the team announced.
The 6-foot-2, 230-pound Ogbuehi signed with the Washington Redskins last year as an undrafted free agent. He was waived last summer when the Redskins trimmed their roster to 53 players and later spent the final four weeks of his rookie season on the Dolphins' practice squad.
Ogbuehi tallied 47 receptions for 581 yards in 28 games at Georgia State.To read more or comment...
Browns coach Mike Pettine met with reporters today following the third and final practice of mandatory minicamp. Below is a transcript.
On what he said to the team as it ended minicamp: "We feel we've built a good foundation. I went over in the meeting about some of the numbers that occurred in the weight room, some of the things we were able to do there; just the amount of inventory, the volume that we put in – offense, defense and special teams – spoke to that. We built a good foundation, but the key thing for a mature team is to take this break and keep on a rise. We can't afford to take a step back and really be back at the beginning when we get to training camp. It was a challenge for the guys to stay in shape. Their playbooks will be available to them throughout this break, as well. We should be able to get ahead mentally for training camp, as well."
On if Browns QB Brian Hoyer is the starting quarterback going into training camp: "Yes."To read more or comment...
As the Browns wrapped up their three-day mandatory minicamp this afternoon, coach Mike Pettine made it clear that Brian Hoyer has maintained his lead on rookie Johnny Manziel in the team's quarterback competition, but there's also plenty of time left for Johnny Football to catch Hoyer.
After all, the season opener at Pittsburgh isn't until Sept. 7.
Pettine said Hoyer will enter training camp in late July as the No. 1 quarterback on the Browns' depth chart. That's when the competition will truly intensify.
"I don't think it's insurmountable," Pettine said of Hoyer's lead on Manziel. "Brian is securely ahead of him right now, but we will compete and we will decide. The issue for us as a staff is finding the right time to name a starter. If you wait too late, then nobody's ready for the opener. If you do it too soon, then it wasn't a true competition. That will be part of our discussions as well as far as [deciding], 'OK, here's the plan. Here's a date that want to go ahead and name him.'To read more or comment...
Browns coach Mike Pettine met with reporters today after the second practice of mandatory minicamp. Below is a transcript.
On the scuffle at practice: "I talked about it afterwards. We're all wearing the same logo. We always use the phrase, 'Competitive not combative.' That line gets crossed every now and again, but I also think that's a byproduct of what we're trying to build, the mentality. It's something that I think it happens; as a coach you frown on it, but at the same time it's something that you understand it might be the price of doing business."
On if Browns OL Garrett Gilkey being involved in both scuffles this spring is a pattern: "That's probably an accurate interpretation. There are some guys that are maybe more apt to get involved with it, just by the nature of how they play."To read more or comment...
Browns running back Terrance West signed his rookie contract this afternoon.
West broke the news by posting a photograph on Instagram of him signing the deal. The Browns later announced the move.
"IM OFFICIALLY A #CLEVELAND #BROWN NOW!" West wrote on Instagram. "DEAL DONE #DAWGPOUND BABY. JUST THE BEGINNING. MORE TO COME. #BLESSED AND #THANKFUL."
West received a four-year contract worth $2.796 million, NationalFootballPost.com reported.To read more or comment...
Browns coach Mike Pettine spoke to reporters today following the team's first practice of mandatory minicamp. Below is a transcript from the news conference.
On declining Hard Knocks: "Just being a first-year head coach – I had been a part of it before – I just really wanted to get through that first season's training camp. This was a decision that was made long before the draft. It was just something that I felt in my gut, I just didn't want to be a part of the first year. I saw the positives of it, but I think there's some negatives to it, as well. Just not having a good feel for our roster, as far as the chemistry and the personalities and all of that, that's kind of going into some uncharted territory to agree to do that right out of the gate. I think that's why the league gives the teams that are the first-year [head coaches] the right to not be a part of that pool of teams they can potentially require to do it."
On if Hard Knocks makes it more difficult for the coaching staff: "It can. I think it's just something that you're…I just always felt if there's anything that causes us to think for one second about something other than preparing our football for the opener, than that's probably not a good thing. There are some distractions involved with it. I see the other side of it, the positives that can be there, but from a staff standpoint, that's something that we have to factor in."To read more or comment...
The Cleveland Browns are shutting down media availability for quarterbacks Brian Hoyer and Johnny Manziel until July 25, a team spokesman said.
That's when the team reports for training camp. The team is holding minicamp today, but the quarterbacks won't be made available to the media.
#Browns spokesman said Johnny Manziel won't be available to media this week in minicamp. Also said he won't be available until 7/25 & 7/31.
To read more or comment...
Hall of Fame quarterback and New York Jets legend Joe Namath appeared on NFL Network's NFL Total Access tonight and discussed a quarterback who is very much a showman like himself -- Browns rookie Johnny Manziel.
The 22nd overall pick in this year's draft, Manziel has created a stir in his first month with the Browns by, as he puts it, living life to the fullest. He partied in Las Vegas during Memorial Day weekend, met friend and famous rapper Drake at a Los Angeles nightclub the following week and spent this past weekend embarking on a series of adventures in Texas.
Namath shared his thoughts about the attention -- and criticism -- Manziel constantly receives. Below is a transcript from the interview provided by the network.
On if criticism of Manziel is warranted: "What difference does it make, really? And it is an example of the different eras and times. I do know this about Johnny Manziel: I haven't seen anyone perform any better than Johnny the last two seasons on that football field. And I do know that we love entertainment. Football is a sport, but it is show biz. It is entertainment. And Johnny, he's got to live his life; give him some room. I've been to Vegas before; you guys have probably been to Vegas. Give the man a little bit of room. But you see, in his position he's like not entitled to be a regular guy [at] 22 years old or 21 years old. Everything's blown out of whack. I don't know. I'd love him on my team, let me just say that."To read more or comment...
The Browns signed offensive lineman Alex Parsons and kicker/punter Jake Rogers, the team announced today.
Below is a news release from the Browns, who'll hold their mandatory minicamp Tuesday-Thursday.
Cleveland Browns on Monday signed OL Alex Parsons and K/P Jake Rogers. General Manager Ray Farmer made the announcement.To read more or comment...
The Browns have waived safety Jamoris Slaughter, the team announced today.
The Browns selected Slaughter in the sixth round (No. 175 overall) of last year's draft. He spent his entire rookie season on the practice squad.
Three games into Slaughter's senior season at the University of Notre Dame, he suffered a ruptured left Achilles' tendon. He was bothered by several leg injuries last season with the Browns.To read more or comment...
As Browns rookie quarterback Johnny Manziel embarked on a series of adventures in his home state of Texas this past weekend, he was careful to balance his business relationship with LeBron James and his new allegiance to Cleveland.
Manziel partied in Austin, Texas, for a couple of days and then attended Game 2 of the NBA Finals Sunday night between the Miami Heat and San Antonio Spurs. After the Heat wrapped up a 98-96 win, Manziel posted a photo on Instagram of James shooting a free throw in the AT&T Center and wrote "King."
Cleveland sports fans usually don't take kindly to athletes from their favorite teams rooting for James, but Manziel provided a twist. He wore a blue and orange Cavs hat to the game, thus showing his loyalty to James and Cleveland at the same time.
@JManziel2 rocking #Cavs hat at Game 2 of NBA finals. pic.twitter.com/lqTOSFjVroTo read more or comment...
The Browns worked out veteran outside linebacker Edgar Jones today, Aaron Wilson of NationalFootballPost.com reported.
A deal is not imminent.
The Browns cut veteran outside linebacker Quentin Jones last week and now have only five players at the position: Jabaal Sheard, Paul Kruger, Barkevious Mingo, Justin Staples and Eric Martin.To read more or comment...
Quarterback Brian Hoyer is on the verge of entering the final season of his contract with the Browns, but with so much unknown surrounding the North Olmsted native, it would be unreasonable to expect the two sides to enter serious talks about extending his deal.
The Browns understandably want to see how Hoyer's comeback attempt from a torn right anterior cruciate ligament plays out. They want to see how his competition with rookie Johnny Manziel for the starting quarterback job unfolds. And assuming he plays, they want to see how he performs during the upcoming season because he has made only four starts (he went 3-0 last season before getting hurt) in his five-year NFL career.
So it's not surprising that no talks of an extension have materialized to this point, which is what CBS Sports' Jason La Canfora wrote in a lengthy profile about Hoyer that was published today.
"I have so much more to worry about than that," Hoyer told La Canfora in a phone interview that lasted about 40 minutes. "It was a short sample last year, but at least I showed people I'm capable of being a winning quarterback in this league, and no matter what happens this year I think I'll be in a good spot at the end of the season."To read more or comment...
The Dan Patrick Show is paying tribute to the text message rookie quarterback Johnny Manziel sent Browns quarterbacks coach Dowell Loggains during the first round of the NFL Draft by selling "hurry up and draft me" T-shirts for $19.95 on its website.
The legend of the text went viral after Loggains explained it during a radio interview last month with ESPN Arkansas. Loggains suggested that the text prompted the Browns to trade up from No. 26 overall to No. 22 so they could nab Manziel on May 8.
"We're sitting there and they keep showing Johnny on TV, and Johnny and I are texting," Loggains said. "And he shoots me a text and he says, 'I wish you guys would come get me. Hurry up and draft me because I want to be there. I want to wreck this league together.'
"When I got that text, I forwarded it to the owner [Jimmy Haslam] and to the head coach [Mike Pettine]. I'm like, 'This guy wants to be here. He wants to be part of it.' As soon as that happened, Mr. Haslam said, 'Pull the trigger. We're trading up to go get this guy.'"To read more or comment...
The Browns must like the way some of their young linebackers fit into new coach Mike Pettine's 3-4, hybrid scheme because they have cut veterans Quentin Groves and Larry Grant, both of whom have six NFL seasons on their resumes. The team announced the moves this morning.
Groves earned a spot in the defense's rotation of outside linebackers last season, but an injured ankle limited him to only five games. Former Browns defensive coordinator Ray Horton spent the 2012 season with Groves when they were members of the Arizona Cardinals. The Browns then signed Groves, who was an unrestricted free agent, to a two-year, $2.8 million contract in March 2013 partly because they knew he would help his new teammates learn Horton's scheme.
Groves, 29, earned respect in the locker room and was voted special teams captain despite being arrested a month after his arrival on a charge of soliciting an undercover police officer for prostitution.
The 6-foot-3, 265-pound Groves finished his shortened 2013 season with four tackles, including two sacks, and one forced fumble.To read more or comment...
The Browns have agreed to terms with inside linebacker Christian Kirksey on his rookie contract, the team announced today.
The four-year deal is worth $3.04 million and includes a signing bonus of $662,500, a league source confirmed, speaking on condition of anonymity because financial terms were not announced. Aaron Wilson of NationalFootballPost.com first reported the deal.
Kirksey, a third-round draft pick (No. 71 overall) from the University of Iowa, is expected to battle Craig Robertson this summer for the starting inside linebacker spot next to Karlos Dansby.To read more or comment...
A judge has dismissed a phony sexual harassment lawsuit filed last month against Browns rookie quarterback Johnny Manziel in a Florida district court, TMZ.com reported today.
Throwing out the suit was obviously a formality because it was a hoax.
Judge Steven D. Merryday dismissed the suit last week and deemed it "immaterial, impertinent and scandalous," according to the report.To read more or comment...
City Grill in Toledo is taking advantage of Johnny Manziel mania, putting out a hamburger inspired by the Browns rookie quarterback. No, the burger is not an undersized slider.
The "Johnny Football Burger" is a four decker with your choice of American or Swiss cheese. Courtesy of Toledo Blade reporter Taylor Dungjen, here's what the burger looks like:
The Johnny Football burger at City Grill in downtown #Toledo. Because: America. #nope pic.twitter.com/9sJT2HWmdPTo read more or comment...
Browns wide receiver Josh Gordon didn't appear in Berea Municipal Court this morning as previously scheduled because attorney Gary A. Vick entered a not guilty plea on his behalf Tuesday for a speeding ticket the All Pro received during Memorial Day weekend in Strongsville, court records show.
A new court date has yet to be set.
Gordon was pulled over in his gray 2014 Mercedes-Benz SUV at 9:43 p.m. May 25 for traveling northbound on Interstate 71 at 74 mph in a 60 mph zone, according to the ticket issued by the Cuyahoga County Sheriff's deputy who stopped him. He was fined $187.
The incident made headlines because a passenger in Gordon's vehicle received a citation for possession of marijuana in an amount less than 200 grams during the traffic stop.To read more or comment...
A former high school player from New Mexico wandered onto the Browns' practice field hoping to get a tryout.
The unidentified man walked onto the field at the team's training headquarters on Tuesday with an equipment bag strapped to his back as the Browns worked out. A team spokesman said the man was quickly spotted and escorted from the field through the media gate without incident.
The team believes the man, who appeared to be in his mid-20s, entered the field after walking through the team's indoor field house.
A member of the team's media relations staff and a security staffer talked with the man, who told them he came to Cleveland hoping to get a shot with the NFL team.To read more or comment...
Browns coach Mike Pettine spoke to reporters today following the team's eighth practice of organized team activities. Below is a transcript from the news conference.
On if he talked with Browns WR Josh Gordon about his traffic stop or if there was any team discipline because of it: "That's a club issue right now. We're not going to make any comments on his current situation."
On whether Gordon's recent traffic stop is troubling: "I just think any time there's issues off the field, regardless of the player, it can be if it's a pattern."
On Browns DB Aaron Berry: "He's a great competitor. That's one of the reasons he's here. I was fortunate to be around him in New York, and when he's healthy I think he can be a guy that really fits our style of play. He's very confident. He'll get up, he'll get in your face, he'll cover you and he'll tell you about it."To read more or comment...
A knee injury and off-field issues have seriously threatened cornerback Aaron Berry's NFL career, though he'll receive another chance to resurrect it with the Browns.
The Browns announced today that they signed Berry as an unrestricted free agent. Terms of the contract were not immediately disclosed. Berry paid the organization a visit in March but didn't immediately strike a deal.
"Aaron Berry gives us both depth and competition at corner, and has the potential to upgrade our kicking game," Browns General Manager Ray Farmer said in a news release. "He's tough and relentless and his strength prior to his injury was man coverage. He's also accountable for his past, which is well-documented."
The 5-foot-9, 190-pound Berry hasn't appeared in an NFL game since he played for the New York Jets in 2012, when new Browns coach Mike Pettine was in his fourth and final season as the defensive coordinator of the team. Berry, who'll turn 26 on June 25, suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament last July during a training camp practice with the Jets and missed the entire 2013 season.To read more or comment...


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Dolphins' Richie Incognito enters psych clinic
(NEWSER) – Richie Incognito has reportedly been admitted to an Arizona psychiatric clinic, in the wake of an incident in which he smashed his own car with a baseball bat. Sources differ on the circumstances; TMZ's sources say Incognito didn't go to the facility willingly, and that police filled out a form requesting his admission, but theSouth Florida Sun Sentinel and NFL.com are both reporting that he checked himself in. According to the latter, the Players Association and NFL both urged Incognito to get help.

subset: commoncrawl


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Way, Way Over Budget: ObamaCare Subsidies
(NEWSER) – ObamaCare appears to be on pace to cost the federal government a lot more than it was counting on. So far, the government is on pace to sink $11 billion into subsidies for consumers who bought coverage on the federal insurance exchange, according to a new report from the Department of Health and Human Services. If things are going similarly for state-run exchanges, the total subsidy bill could be $16.5 billion, the LA Times estimates—the Congressional Budget Office had predicted a cost of just $10 billion.
Read the full story on Newser.com
Photo: Getty Images


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Is Metallica preparing for another documentary?
Listen to Metallica on iHeartRadio
Metallica may have another documentary on the way. The metal vets, who are gearing up for the release of "Through the Never" next month, just finished their first set of shows in China last week.
They played in Shanghai on Tuesday and Wednesday, and Lars Ulrich tells "Time Out Shanghai" that they made the last minute decision to bring along a camera crew. The drummer explains that they wanted to find a way to share the experience and hopefully bring their relationship with Chinese fans to the "next level."
Ulrich says he and his bandmates think "something cool" will come out of the footage, but they're not exactly sure what that will be. He says they might try to tie it into "Through the Never" somehow, but admits they really haven't come up with a concrete plan yet.
Photo Credit Getty Images


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CNN scraps Hillary Clinton documentary after the director quits
CNN Films canceled a planned documentary about Hillary Clinton on Monday after the project's director abruptly dropped out of the project and said the Clinton camp had pressured people not to talk to him.
Charles Ferguson, who had been tapped earlier this year to direct the film, wrote in a piece published on The Huffington Post that he decided to scrap the documentary because potential interview subjects refused to be interviewed.
He blamed pressure from Clinton aides and supporters as well as the Republican National Committee, which banned CNN from hosting any 2016 presidential primary debates over the film — which had been set to air next year. (The RNC also voted to boycott NBC, which is planning a fictional miniseries about Clinton.)
"When I approached people for interviews, I discovered that nobody, and I mean nobody, was interested in helping me make this film," Ferguson wrote. "Not Democrats, not Republicans — and certainly nobody who works with the Clintons, wants access to the Clintons, or dreams of a position in a Hillary Clinton administration. Not even journalists who want access, which can easily be taken away."
He said he received a phone call from Nick Merrill, Clinton's press secretary, even before the film was formally announced, who "interrogated" him. He also said that Philippe Reines, a longtime Clinton adviser, had called CNN officials and complained about the film.
Merrill and Reines did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
Ferguson said he had requested interviews with more than 100 people — both Democrats and Republicans — and in the end, only two people who had "ever dealt" with Clinton agreed to talk to him.
"And I suspected that even they would back out," Ferguson wrote.
He added, "Neither political party wanted the film made. After painful reflection, I decided that I couldn't make a film of which I would be proud. And so I'm cancelling."
He called the decision to can the project "a victory for the Clintons and for the money machines that both political parties have become."


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Henrico HS senior wins art competition
Citizen Staff Reports 06/05/12
As John Paige sat at this year's Virginia Third Congressional Art Competition, he heard the names of people called up for honorable mention, third place, and then second. Once he'd heard the second place name wasn't his, he tapped his mom and said, " Mom, we can probably go, I'm not winning anything." Then he heard his name come over the microphone, and was completely stunned. Paige received the Grand First Place Prize for his piece titled "Teenage Angst."
"As a teenager I feel like I've gone through a lot of stress and it's made me so angry. It's built up and I have never been able to release it, so, I chose to paint it. To release some of that anger," Paige said.
In doing so, he not only was able to find some inner peace, but also affected others with a very moving and evocative piece of art.
"He's been a joy to work with," his art teacher Tanya Rogish said. "It was very exciting when I found out he won, I was very proud of him."
Paige received a $3,000 scholarship for the Savannah College of Art & Design, two round-trip tickets to attend the reception for Congressional winners in Washington D.C., a Downing-Gross Cultural Arts Center Prize Pack, a Newport News Police Department Prize Pack, a Black Americans in Congress book and $50 in Gift Cards. His artwork will travel to Washington D.C. where it will be on display for all visitors, congressmen, and senators to view as they walk toward the capital building.
Walmart honors Citizen's 'Top Teachers' during grand opening
Citizen Staff Reports 07/25/2017 BusinessEducationGeneral News
The much-anticipated new Walmart Supercenter in Eastern Henrico opened to busy crowds last week, and company officials welcomed a special group of shoppers, too. > Read more.
'It's such a blessing'
By Ashlee Korlach, Special to the Citizen 07/24/2017 FeaturesGeneral News
On Independence Day, a Brazilian-born Henrico resident took the Naturalization Oath of Allegiance on the steps of the Virginia Historical Society and felt peace finally settle around her.
Jeanette Hamlett's journey to U.S. citizenship is a story of faith and love, which she told with her husband, John Hamlett, by her side. > Read more.
Preschoolers give pillows to families in need
By Ashley Luck, Special to the Citizen 07/24/2017 FeaturesGeneral News
A group of preschoolers from Chesterbrook Academy Preschool donated 56 pillows to local families in need at the Housing Families First shelter. The shelter is always in need of pillows and linens as, since families take the donated ones with them to their new homes.
Housing Families First provides shelter and support for homeless families and assist them in finding a permanent housing solution. The shelter serves people year-round, said Terri Iguina, operations and volunteer manager at Housing Families First. > Read more.
Dairy Queen's Blizzard sales July 27 to benefit Children's Hospital of Richmond
Citizen Staff Reports 07/24/2017 BusinessGeneral News
Dairy Queen's 13th Annual Miracle Treat Day – Thursday, July 27 – will raise fund to benefit sick and injured children being treated at Children's Miracle Network hospitals throughout the United States. Locally, $1 or more from every Blizzard Treat sold at participating locations will be donated to the Children's Hospital of Richmond at VCU. Last year, the event raised more than $14,400 for the hospital. > Read more.
Crime Stoppers' Crime of the Week: July 24, 2017
Citizen Staff Reports 07/24/2017 General NewsPublic SafetyCrime of the Week
Crime Stoppers needs your help to find the person who struck a pedestrian in the City of Richmond.
On July 21 at 12:52 a.m., a woman was crossing the street at Forest Hill and Sheila Lane when she was struck by a dark colored four-door sedan that was traveling eastbound on Forest Hill. She was transported by ambulance to Chippenham Hospital for minor injuries and released. > Read more.
Crime Stoppers' Crime of the Week: July 24, 2017
Henrico Police locate missing man
Business in brief
Mother, son work to raise funds for Make-A-Wish
Eyes in the sky
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Jul. 20, 2017Current edition | Archive
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All's fair in food and fun
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Obituary – Hoyle S. "Chick" Walters
Obituary – Janet Sue Vest
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Glen Allen woman raising companion dog
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Growing a grown-up: Part II
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|July 2017
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CalendarBuild a better world, starting at the local level, at "Revved Up Recycling" from 2 p.m. to 2:45 p.m. at Glen Allen Library. Denise Ritchie, Central Virginia's recycling education specialist, explores recycling fundamentals and caring for the environment in an interactive and fun program. Participants will create an art project from recycled materials. For details, call 501-1950 or visit http://www.henricolibrary.org. Full text


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Autopsy: James Gandolfini Died Of A Heart Attack
Autopsy results are confirming that "Sopranos" TV star James Gandolfini died of a heart attack. A family spokesperson told reporters in Rome Friday that Gandolfini's death was the result of natural causes, adding, "nothing else was found in his system." Michael Kobold also said in his statement that the actor had a "wonderful day" in Rome in the hours before his death, sharing that Gandolfini visited the Vatican and had dinner with his family. He said everyone is devastated by the loss, describing Gandolfini as a "a devoted husband, a loving father of two, a brother and cousin you could count on."
The 51-year-old actor died Wednesday night. Gandolfini was scheduled to appear at a film festival with actress Marissa Tomei in Sicily on Saturday. That event is now expected to include a special tribute in his memory. His family is making arrangements to bring his body back to the U.S. for a burial.


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Bla bla bla
Probably a nice chap, but seems to come across as the petulant daddy's rich boy unfortunatly.


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This is the applicator that stores lotion and applies it to hard-to-reach areas. Its 19"-long sturdy ABS handle is equipped with a removable attachment head ideal for applying moisturizers, creams, or tanning lotion to the back without the need for assistance or bending. The attachment head's leak-proof reservoir stores up to five applications of lotion, massaged into the skin evenly by 17 rolling polypropylene balls that roll smoothly on the back, calves, or tops of feet. Includes three additional attachment heads: a 100% polyester sponge for body wash, a 100% sisal brush for exfoliation, and a synthetic pumice stone for more vigorous exfoliation. Handle splits into two pieces for easy travel; all four attachments can be used with the full or half handle, or independently. (14 3/4 oz.)
Lifetime Guarantee
The Long Reach Lotion Applicator comes with The Hammacher Schlemmer Lifetime Guarantee. If this product ever disappoints you, for any reason, you may return your Hammacher Schlemmer purchase for exchange, credit, or refund.
Should you have any questions, we are available seven days a week (8:00 am – midnight EST). Please call 1-800-321-1484 to speak with a specialist or email us at email@example.com to receive a response within three business hours or less.
May we recommend:
(based on 42 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
5 Stars
4 Stars
3 Stars
2 Stars
1 Stars
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Best Uses
Reviewed by 42 customers
Displaying reviews 1-10
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(8 of 8 customers found this review helpful)
Good Product
By Gadget Queen
from Maryland
I initially thought that the attachments did not fit properly, however, after investigation I realized that I was not pushing the attachment into the handle all the way....this product works very well!
Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
Was this review helpful? Yes / No
- flag this review
(6 of 6 customers found this review helpful)
Applies easily, lid falls off
By hankysis3
from London, KY
I have only used the lotion applicator. It applies evenly. However, the lid came unscrewed and spewed lotion all over. What a mess! Haven't used the other parts yet, so can't rate them.
Bottom Line No, I would not recommend this to a friend
Hammacher Schlemmer Response: Please note, like any large dial on screw, if the lid doesn't start correctly going around, it won't attach properly and will go on crooked. Please check to make sure the item is level with the base on all sides once down so its on correctly. Please also remember that we back our items with a lifetime guarantee should you should to return this item.
(5 of 6 customers found this review helpful)
Works good
By lone rider
from central, Illinois
Use the lotion head to reach areas on back I can't reach. Good quality but no instructions. I did figure it out.
(3 of 3 customers found this review helpful)
Not as versatile as advertised.
By Merle
from Calgary, Canada
The applicator heads are almost impossible to remove and change. The lotion applicator works for hard to reach areas like your back.
Hammacher Schlemmer Response: Thank you for your feedback. All attachments are easily interchangeable by simply sliding rounded nubs into the "Y" end of the 2 piece handle. Please note the attachments are designed to fit snugly, and will loosen with time.
Well engineered, and all it claims
By ohurd
from NC
It's easy to use. It reaches where I need it (my feet) and the pumice head and the lotion head easily switch out. The way breaks down makes it easy to store. No downside that I've found. Highly recommended!
Very useful easy to use tool
By Tallulah
from Alberta, Canada
For hard to reach areas, especially good for applying lotion to the back.
(3 of 4 customers found this review helpful)
Lotion Applicator
By Mops
from Ontario
I use it to wash, and put moisturiser on my back.Always a difficult job for me.The attachments are a little difficult to remove from the handle but will be fine with a little practice.
(2 of 2 customers found this review helpful)
Really nice!
By Itchy Back
from Gainesville, FL
I love this product. Unfortunately I dropped it on my tile floor and the handle broke, but it was replaced immediately when I sent it back. I wish I had found this applicator sooner!
This product is not very good.
By Dog
from Los Angeles, Ca
The attachments come off the handle easily when applying any pressure.
Hammacher Schlemmer Response: Thank you for your comment. Please make sure to push the attachments in all the way before using to make sure they stay in place. Please remember, if you ever are disappointed with a product - for any reason - we request that you return it to us. Please call our 24-hour customer service hotline at 1-800-321-1484 and one of our representatives will be happy to assist you.
(1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)
Yes I would purchase it again if I needed to
By None
from Silver Spring, Maryland
I use to product for my back, I have eczema and it is great for my back.
COPYRIGHT © 2017 HAMMACHER SCHLEMMER & COMPANY, INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. W107147 E. 57th ST • NEW YORK, NY • 10022 • 1-800-_321-1484


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Prosecutors To Allow Teen Connected To Boston Bomb To Be Freed
(Boston, MA) -- A teenager accused of lying to agents in the investigation of the Boston Marathon bombings is set to be released on $100,000 bond. Robel Phillipos today secured the bond by real estate, which was put up by a third party. He was arrested last week on accusations of lying to investigators looking into the bombing allegedly carried out by Tamerlan and Dzhokhar Tsarnaev. Phillipos will be released to his mother and be required to wear a GPS tracking device.


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How New York City's 'Sons of Anarchy' Terrorized a Young Family
Alexian Lien and Rosalyn Ng live in an apartment just down from the New York Stock Exchange on a street where cops and private security and barricades and a bomb dog guard against the continuing threat of terrorism.
But terror of another kind awaited as the couple set off with their young child for a Sunday drive. They headed uptown in their black Range Rover past the 9/11 Memorial that three weeks before had observed the 12th anniversary of the attack.
Lien and Ng were celebrating a much happier marker, their first wedding anniversary. They continued past the new Freedom Tower, which was ultimately only steel and glass, no matter how high it soared into the sunshine. The family in the Range Rover was a living testament to the city's resilience, a seeming triumph of basic good over craven evil.
As they drove uptown, the sky blue, the temperature just right. The day itself seemed a victory until the air filled with a buzzing like that of huge bees.
From out of the peace and quiet came 30 or more motorcycles, part of an annual convergence on New York by bikers marking the end of summer. They had caused considerable chaos the year before, hundreds of them running red lights, going up on sidewalks, speeding into oncoming traffic, revving engines so as to send up huge billows of exhaust, popping prolonged wheelies much too close to pedestrians, and posting it all online thanks to a helmet camera.
This year, the police had set up "choke points," checking license and registrations, issuing 68 summonses, seizing 55 bikes and making 15 arrests, one for a gun. Those who got through included the crew that now chanced upon Lien and Ng's Range Rover. They cut in and out were generally so reckless that Lien became one of 200 citizens who called 911 about bikers that day.
In a video that appears to be from the same helmet camera of last year, the bikers can be seen swarming around the Range Rover as it proceeds up the parkway. A viewer can almost feel the thrill of biking on a glorious day become supercharged with the rush of riding in numbers.
Even during mass bicycle rides in the city, the participants are often overcome with a sudden sense of power that incites them to take over the whole street. The motorcyclists in the video appear bent on appropriating all of Henry Hudson Parkway as Lien and Ng and their child cruised up it on their Sunday anniversary drive.
One biker identified by police as Christopher Cruz of Massachusetts, can be seen cutting in front of the Range Rover. He is looking back as he slows towards what seems to be a near stop. seemingly seeking to force the Range Rover to do the same.
Read The Full Article On The Daily Beast
More articles from The Daily Beast:
- Firebombing in Syria
- Tourism Is a Big Deal, and the Shutdown Will Ruin It
- America's Long-Simmering, Semi-Civil Civil War
© 2013 Newsweek/Daily Beast Company LLC


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2012 Volcom Fiji Pro: Day 2 Highlights
Here's my spin on today's events…
Day two of the 2012 Volcom Fiji Pro kicked off with Fijian trials winner Esei Tokovou surfing against 11-Time World Champ Kelly Slater. The two have been friends for over fifteen years but Slater was in assassin mode after an uncharacteristic round one loss to Mitch Coleborn and dispatched of the local boy with ruthless efficiency—you don't win 11 world titles being a bro during heats.
In an all-Carlsbad, CA, affair, Josh Kerr took out World Tour veteran Taylor despite a sprained ankle and surfing on borrowed equipment. "It's actually not that bad surfing on my backhand," said Kerrzy as he limped to the Tavarua pool for some RnR with his wife Nikki. After breaking three boards yesterday, Kerr resorted to borrowing a blade from Kelly Slater in his heat against T. Knox. "I think my boards are a bit too thin," said the #3 ranked surfer in the world.
In only his fourth time ever surfing Cloudbreak, Julian Wilson took out San Clemente's Pat Gudauskas in an all-regular foot affair. "I can't believe I haven't been here before," said Julian after his heat. "The Aussie boys were giving me some crap for staying on Tavarua, but it's all good, the people on Tavarua—and Namotu I reckon too—are so amazing." Pat G had a rough go and left plenty of skin on the reef today, but there's no way "Captain Froth" is going to walk away bummed. I ran into him and his brother Dane tonight at the bar here on Tavarua and the boys were beaming as usual. "Yeah that was a rough one!" he laughed. "But I'm still psyched!" You gotta love the Gudangs…
While Kolohe Andino may not have got the best waves of the day, he had the best right hook of anyone. After a frustrating loss to Portugal's Tiago Pires, Kolohe unleashed a barrage of blows on his 6' 3" Mayhem, breaking the thing in half as time ticked away. I caught up to him afterward and asked about it. "Was that on the web cast?" he asked. "Umm, yeah." I replied. While it was a bit juvenile, you gotta cut the kid some slack—he's only eighteen years old and has a world of expectations on his shoulders. I kinda liked the display of passion, and the rest of the peanut gallery gathered around the Tavarua bar seemed to as well. "That's not easy to do," quipped his pal John John Florence. "You gotta get through the stringer and everything," he added.
The rest of the day saw Brazilian phenom Gabriel Medina net yet another perfect ten-point ride as he beat Yadin Nicol, a fired up Freddy P win over fellow Polynesian Michel Bourez, and Ace Buchan advance over Kieren Perrow. Tomorrow figures to be a well-deserved lay day as the Volcom Fiji Pro awaits a macking swell scheduled to arrive later in the week. Stay tuned for some awesome lay day activities—there are fish begging to be speared, a mini-ramp ready to be ripped, and Fiji Bitters on ice.—Justin Coté
ASP Press Release: Top Seeds Dominate Round 2 of the Volcom Fiji Pro at Cloudbreak
CLOUDBREAK, Tavarua/Fiji (Monday, June 4, 2012) – Cloudbreak turned on once again for the world's best surfers as the opening 10 heats of the elimination Round 2 of the Volcom Fiji Pro were completed in clean four-to-six foot (1 – 1.5 metre) waves at the primary event venue.
Event No. 4 of 10 on the 2012 ASP World Championship Tour, the Volcom Fiji Pro took advantage of the conditions on offer at Cloudbreak with the top seeds controlling the day's tempo, taking nine wins from 10 heats.
Julian Wilson (AUS), 23, ASP Dream Tour sophomore and current ASP World No. 11, quickly found a rhythm in the Cloudbreak lineup this morning, earning a 9.47 and 9.10 for two lengthy backhand barrels to eliminate Patrick Gudauskas (USA), 26, in a one-sided affair while earning the highest heat total of Volcom Fiji Pro competition, 18.57 out of 20.
"Conditions are really good today," Wilson said. "It's pretty perfect. I had a crappy time yesterday and was really frustrated. It felt good to have that good start. My first wave was good and then I backed it up with another one. It felt great to have a couple of scores and to get that heat under the belt."
Although 2012 marks Wilson's inaugural trip to the Fijian islands, the young Australian exhibited little inexperience in the open ocean lineup today.
"It was only my fourth surf out there and I'm getting to know it better," Wilson said. "I can't believe I haven't been here before. I'm getting a hard time from the boys because I'm such a rookie here. The people are amazing on both of the islands. The weather is great, the waves are great and I'm having a good time."
Wilson will face Miguel Pupo (BRA), 20, when Volcom Fiji Pro competition resumes.
Gabriel Medina (BRA), 18, secured the event's first Perfect 10 this afternoon for an incredibly long forehand barrel punctuated by some solid turns. Medina built upon this opening ride's momentum to secure the Round 2 win over fellow rookie Yadin Nicol (AUS), 26, and advance directly to Round 3.
"That was sick," Medina said. "I'm stoked to get that 10 and make the heat. I'm having a lot of fun. I didn't know I was going to make it on that one and I just went for it. This is my second time to Fiji and I heard there is a swell coming. I think it would be fun if they ran at Restaurants too."
Medina will face fellow Brazilian Alejo Muniz (BRA), 22, in Round 3 of competition.
Josh Kerr (AUS), 28, suffered a suspected grade-2 ankle tear in his opening Volcom Fiji Pro heat yesterday, but withstood the pain this morning to claim a Round 2 victory over veteran campaigner Taylor Knox (USA), 41, to advance to Round 3.
"I was worried because the doctor told me my ankle recovery was 8 to 12 weeks out," Kerr said. "It feels super tender and I'm having non-stop work done. It's really taped up and I don't have much mobility with it at the moment. I got bounced up in the barrel and that didn't feel very good, but I'm happy to get through that one."
Tiago Pires (PRT), 32, veteran ASP World Championship Tour campaigner, survived a hard-fought heat over rookie sensation Kolohe Andino (USA), 18, this afternoon. Following a restart due to inconsistent swell, the two surfers attempted to battle the rapidly-changing conditions with Pires ousting the young Californian and advancing through to Round 3.
"I thought it was going to be a fun heat between Kolohe (Andino) and I but we had the restart and no sets came and then that wind came and changed the look of the wave," Pires said. "I feel bad for Kolohe. No one likes to lose in these types of conditions. I'm happy to make the heat though. I had a tough loss to Owen (Wright) yesterday and I'm happy to keep going in this amazing event."
Pires has drawn two-time ASP World Champion Mick Fanning (AUS), 31, in Round 3 of competition.
Kelly Slater (USA), 40, reigning 11-time ASP World Champion, rebounded from an uncharacteristic Round 1 loss yesterday to post a convincing Round 2 win over local wildcard Isei Tokovu (FIJ). While the scores didn't necessarily reflect it, Slater admitted that Tokovu had the talent and opportunity to mix it up with the world's best at Cloudbreak.
"It feels mellow out there and all of a sudden a 6-foot bomb comes through," Slater said. "Isei (Tokovu) would have got a 10 on that bomb, but it was just a little too fast. There's still a lot of energy out there, but it's still a little slow. You can't underestimate a local guy in these contests, they surf here all the time and know which ones are the best waves."
Slater, who was forced to withdraw from the previous ASP WCT event in Rio de Janeiro due to a laceration to his foot, has been battling a Fijian stomach flu and is hoping to be in top shape for the latter rounds of competition.
"I'm feeling not quite 100 percent, I didn't feel great yesterday and my legs were still a little shaky," Slater said. "It's no excuse for the Round 1 heat because Mitch (Coleborn) was totally in tune and just schooled us out there. It's just about catching the best waves. I think we'll have a few lay days and then there's going to be a giant swell. My foot is better and when the swell kicks, in I have some big boards in the 7'6" to 8'6" range ready for it." Slater will take on lethal goofy-footer Fredrick Patacchia (HAW), 30, in Round 3 of the Volcom Fiji Pro.
Event organizers will reconvene tomorrow morning at 6:30am to assess conditions for a possible 8:30am start. When competition resumes, up first will be Bede Durbidge (AUS), 29, up against Adam Melling (AUS), 27, in Heat 11 of Round 2.
Highlights from the Volcom Fiji Pro will be available via www.volcom.com/fijipro. For more information, log onto www.aspworldtour.com
Heat 1: Kelly Slater (USA) 15.90 def. Isei Tokovu (FIJ) 6.10
Heat 2: Taj Burrow (AUS) 12.66 def. Willian Cardoso (BRA) 8.07
Heat 3: Josh Kerr (AUS) 12.00 def. Taylor Knox (USA) 8.56
Heat 4: Julian Wilson (AUS) 18.57 def. Patrick Gudauskas (USA) 7.50
Heat 5: Fredrick Patacchia (HAW) 13.67 def. Michel Bourez (PYF) 10.54
Heat 6: Gabriel Medina (BRA) 16.67 def. Yadin Nicol (AUS) 9.37
Heat 7: Miguel Pupo (BRA) 16.96 def. Matt Wilkinson (AUS) 15.76
Heat 8: Adrian Buchan (AUS) 17.04 def. Kieren Perrow (AUS) 16.23
Heat 9: Tiago Pires (PRT) 11.00 def. Kolohe Andino (USA) 5.93
Heat 10: Brett Simpson (USA) 12.40 def. Travis Logie (ZAF) 12.20
Heat 11: Bede Durbidge (AUS) vs. Adam Melling (AUS)
Heat 12: Kai Otton (AUS) vs. Raoni Monteiro (BRA)
Heat 1: Taj Burrow (AUS) vs. TBD
Heat 2: John John Florence (HAW) vs. Adrian Buchan (AUS)
Heat 3: Josh Kerr (AUS) vs. Damien Hobgood (USA)
Heat 4: Mick Fanning (AUS) vs. Tiago Pires (PRT)
Heat 5: Alejo Muniz (BRA) vs. Gabriel Medina (BRA)
Heat 6: Joel Parkinson (AUS) vs. Mitch Coleborn (AUS)
Heat 7: Kelly Slater (USA) vs. Fredrick Patacchia (HAW)
Heat 8: Jeremy Flores (FRA) vs. Heitor Alves (BRA)
Heat 9: Owen Wright (AUS) vs. Brett Simpson (USA)
Heat 10: Jordy Smith (ZAF) vs. C.J. Hobgood (USA)
Heat 11: Julian Wilson (AUS) vs. Miguel Pupo (BRA)
Heat 12: Adriano de Souza (BRA) vs. TBD


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North West Takes Her First Steps
North West hit a major milestone on Wednesday, and her mama Kim Kardashian couldn't help but gush.
"Our baby girl finished one week of swimming lessons today then took her 1st steps right when she got out of the pool!!!!" Kardashian wrote on Instagram.
She continued, "Mommy & Daddy are so proud of you!!!!"
Kardashian and Kanye West have spent the past week vacationing with North in Mexico.
She included an adorable photo of herself cuddling the 1-year-old, writing, "Photo cred: Daddy."
Photo: Splash News