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Paris, Prince Jackson at death trial

Los Angeles (CNN) — Paris and Prince Jackson made their first appearances Tuesday in the wrongful death trial against their father’s last concert promoter.

AEG Live lawyers played short video clips from the depositions of Michael Jackson’s oldest children in court to counter testimony from their chef.

Kai Chase, who cooked for the singer and his three children in the last months of his life, had described what she said was Jackson’s physical deterioration just before his death.

Jackson was strong, healthy and active in April, but was so weak by June that Prince, then 12, had to help his father walk up stairs, Chase testified.

Chase also repeated the testimony she gave in the criminal trial of Dr. Conrad Murray about the day Jackson died.


Paris Jackson’s ‘cry for help’

Randy Phillips: He's president of AEG Live, the concert promoter that contracted with Michael Jackson for his This Is It comeback shows set to start in London in July 2009. The Jackson lawsuit says Phillips supervised Dr. Conrad Murray's treatment of Jackson in the weeks before his death, making the company liable for damages. E-mails between Phillips and other executives showed they were worried about Jackson's missed rehearsals and sought Murray's help getting him ready.Randy Phillips: He’s president of AEG Live, the concert promoter that contracted with Michael Jackson for his “This Is It” comeback shows set to start in London in July 2009. The Jackson lawsuit says Phillips supervised Dr. Conrad Murray’s treatment of Jackson in the weeks before his death, making the company liable for damages. E-mails between Phillips and other executives showed they were worried about Jackson’s missed rehearsals and sought Murray’s help getting him ready.

Katherine Jackson: Michael's mother, 82, was deposed for nine hours over three days by AEG Live lawyers. As the guardian of her son's three children, she is a plaintiff in the wrongful death lawsuit against the company that promoted Michael Jackson's comeback concerts.Katherine Jackson: Michael’s mother, 82, was deposed for nine hours over three days by AEG Live lawyers. As the guardian of her son’s three children, she is a plaintiff in the wrongful death lawsuit against the company that promoted Michael Jackson’s comeback concerts.

Prince Jackson: Michael's oldest son is considered a key witness in the Jacksons' case against AEG Live, since he is expected to testify about what his father told him about the concert promoter in the last days of his life. Prince, who turned 16 in February, is becoming more independent -- he now has a driver's license and jobs.Prince Jackson: Michael’s oldest son is considered a key witness in the Jacksons’ case against AEG Live, since he is expected to testify about what his father told him about the concert promoter in the last days of his life. Prince, who turned 16 in February, is becoming more independent — he now has a driver’s license and jobs.

Paris Jackson: Michael's daughter, who turned 15 on April 3, is on the list of witnesses and was questioned by AEG Live lawyers for several hours on March 21 about her father's death. Paris is an outspoken teen who often posts messages to her 1 million-plus Twitter followers.Paris Jackson: Michael’s daughter, who turned 15 on April 3, is on the list of witnesses and was questioned by AEG Live lawyers for several hours on March 21 about her father’s death. Paris is an outspoken teen who often posts messages to her 1 million-plus Twitter followers.

Blanket Jackson: Although AEG Live asked the judge to order Blanket, 11, to sit for a deposition, and he is one of the four plaintiffs suing them, Michael's youngest son will not be a witness in the trial. His doctor submitted a note to the court saying it would be medically detrimental to the child.Blanket Jackson: Although AEG Live asked the judge to order Blanket, 11, to sit for a deposition, and he is one of the four plaintiffs suing them, Michael’s youngest son will not be a witness in the trial. His doctor submitted a note to the court saying it would be “medically detrimental” to the child.

Kevin Boyle: The Los Angeles personal injury lawyer is leading the Jackson team of at least six attorneys in the wrongful death suit against AEG Live. One of his notable cases was a large settlement with Boeing on behalf of two soldiers injured when their helicopter malfunctioned and crashed in Iraq.Kevin Boyle: The Los Angeles personal injury lawyer is leading the Jackson team of at least six attorneys in the wrongful death suit against AEG Live. One of his notable cases was a large settlement with Boeing on behalf of two soldiers injured when their helicopter malfunctioned and crashed in Iraq.

Perry Sanders, Jr.: Katherine Jackson's personal lawyer is helping steer the Jackson matriarch through her relations with her son's estate, probate court and the wrongful death suit. He is also known for representing the family of Biggie Smalls in their suit against the city of Los Angeles over the rapper's death investigation.Perry Sanders, Jr.: Katherine Jackson’s personal lawyer is helping steer the Jackson matriarch through her relations with her son’s estate, probate court and the wrongful death suit. He is also known for representing the family of Biggie Smalls in their suit against the city of Los Angeles over the rapper’s death investigation.

Marvin Putnam: He's the lead lawyer for AEG Live, defending against the wrongful death suit. The primary focus of his legal practice is media in defense of their First Amendment rights, according to his official biography.Marvin Putnam: He’s the lead lawyer for AEG Live, defending against the wrongful death suit. The primary focus of his legal practice is “media in defense of their First Amendment rights,” according to his official biography.

Philip Anschutz: The billionaire owner of AEG, parent company of AEG Live, is on the Jacksons' witness list. He is the force behind the effort to build a football stadium in downtown Los Angeles to lure a National Football League team to the city. He recently pulled his company off the market after trying to sell it for $8 billion.Philip Anschutz: The billionaire owner of AEG, parent company of AEG Live, is on the Jacksons’ witness list. He is the force behind the effort to build a football stadium in downtown Los Angeles to lure a National Football League team to the city. He recently pulled his company off the market after trying to sell it for $8 billion.

Tim Leiweke: He was recently fired as AEG's president as Philip Anschutz announced he was taking a more active role in the company. The Jackson lawyers say Leiweke's e-mail exchanges with executives under him concerning Michael Jackson's health are important evidence in their case.Tim Leiweke: He was recently fired as AEG’s president as Philip Anschutz announced he was taking a more active role in the company. The Jackson lawyers say Leiweke’s e-mail exchanges with executives under him concerning Michael Jackson’s health are important evidence in their case.

Joe Jackson: Michael's father, 84, is on the witness list for the trial and may testify. The Jackson family patriarch, who lives in Las Vegas separately from his wife, has suffered several ministrokes in the last year, which some close to him say have affected him.Joe Jackson: Michael’s father, 84, is on the witness list for the trial and may testify. The Jackson family patriarch, who lives in Las Vegas separately from his wife, has suffered several ministrokes in the last year, which some close to him say have affected him.

Paul Gongaware: The AEG Live co-CEO worked closely with Michael Jackson as he prepared for his comeback concerts. He testified at Dr. Conrad Murray's criminal trial that he contacted the physician and negotiated his hiring at the request of Jackson. AEG lawyers say it was Jackson who chose, hired and supervised Murray. Gongaware knew Jackson well, having been tour manager for the singer in previous years.Paul Gongaware: The AEG Live co-CEO worked closely with Michael Jackson as he prepared for his comeback concerts. He testified at Dr. Conrad Murray’s criminal trial that he contacted the physician and negotiated his hiring at the request of Jackson. AEG lawyers say it was Jackson who chose, hired and supervised Murray. Gongaware knew Jackson well, having been tour manager for the singer in previous years.

Kenny Ortega: He was chosen by Michael Jackson and AEG Live to direct and choreograph the This Is It shows. Ortega, who choreographed for Jackson's Dangerous and HIStory tours, testified at Dr. Conrad Murray's criminal trial that Jackson was frail at a rehearsal days before his death.Kenny Ortega: He was chosen by Michael Jackson and AEG Live to direct and choreograph the “This Is It” shows. Ortega, who choreographed for Jackson’s “Dangerous” and “HIStory” tours, testified at Dr. Conrad Murray’s criminal trial that “Jackson was frail” at a rehearsal days before his death.

Dr. Conrad Murray: He was Michael Jackson's personal physician in the two months before his death, giving him nightly infusions of the surgical anesthetic that the coroner ruled led to his death. Murray, who is appealing his involuntary manslaughter conviction, has sworn that he would invoke his Fifth Amendment protection from self-incrimination and refused to testify in the civil trial. There is a chance that Murray will be brought into court from jail to testify outside the presence of the jury to allow the judge to determine if he would be ordered to testify.Dr. Conrad Murray: He was Michael Jackson’s personal physician in the two months before his death, giving him nightly infusions of the surgical anesthetic that the coroner ruled led to his death. Murray, who is appealing his involuntary manslaughter conviction, has sworn that he would invoke his Fifth Amendment protection from self-incrimination and refused to testify in the civil trial. There is a chance that Murray will be brought into court from jail to testify outside the presence of the jury to allow the judge to determine if he would be ordered to testify.

John Branca: He's one of two executors of Michael Jackson's estate. Branca was Jackson's lawyer until about seven years before his death. He said Jackson rehired him just weeks before he died.John Branca: He’s one of two executors of Michael Jackson’s estate. Branca was Jackson’s lawyer until about seven years before his death. He said Jackson rehired him just weeks before he died.


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Who's who in Jackson trialWho’s who in Jackson trial

Paris Jackson made headlines recently when she was rushed to the hospital after she reportedly cut one of her wrists. Jackson is the second child of famed singer Michael Jackson and Deborah Jeanne Rowe. Click through to see more of the Jackson family tree.Paris Jackson made headlines recently when she was rushed to the hospital after she reportedly cut one of her wrists. Jackson is the second child of famed singer Michael Jackson and Deborah Jeanne Rowe. Click through to see more of the Jackson family tree.

Katherine Jackson is the matriarch of the Jackson family. Here she attends the hand and footprint ceremony for son Michael at Grauman's Chinese Theatre in January 2012 in Los Angeles.Katherine Jackson is the matriarch of the Jackson family. Here she attends the hand and footprint ceremony for son Michael at Grauman’s Chinese Theatre in January 2012 in Los Angeles.

Joseph Walker Joe Jackson is the patriarch of the Jackson family. He's pictured at a March 2011 press conference in Madrid, Spain.Joseph Walker “Joe” Jackson is the patriarch of the Jackson family. He’s pictured at a March 2011 press conference in Madrid, Spain.

Maureen Reillette Rebbie Jackson is Joe and Katherine's oldest child. She scored a hit in the 1980s with the song Centipede. She has three children: Stacee, Yashi and Austin Auggie Brown. Here she attends the world premiere of Michael Jackson: The Life of an Icon in London in November 2011.Maureen Reillette “Rebbie” Jackson is Joe and Katherine’s oldest child. She scored a hit in the 1980s with the song “Centipede.” She has three children: Stacee, Yashi and Austin “Auggie” Brown. Here she attends the world premiere of “Michael Jackson: The Life of an Icon” in London in November 2011.

Yashi Brown, Rebbie Jackson's second child, is a poet and advocate on mental health issues. Yashi Brown, Rebbie Jackson’s second child, is a poet and advocate on mental health issues.

Rebbie Jackson's youngest, Austin Auggie Brown, is a musician. He's pictured at a December 2012 benefit in Hollywood. Rebbie Jackson’s youngest, Austin “Auggie” Brown, is a musician. He’s pictured at a December 2012 benefit in Hollywood.

Sigmund Esco Jackie Jackson, center, is the second of Joe and Katherine's children. He has two children with Enid Spann: Sigmund Esco Siggy Jackson Jr. and Brandi Jackson. Here he performs with brothers Tito, left, and Marlon Jackson in Los Angeles in July 2012.Sigmund Esco “Jackie” Jackson, center, is the second of Joe and Katherine’s children. He has two children with Enid Spann: Sigmund Esco “Siggy” Jackson Jr. and Brandi Jackson. Here he performs with brothers Tito, left, and Marlon Jackson in Los Angeles in July 2012.

Toriano Adaryll Tito Jackson, the third of the Jackson children, has three sons: Toriano Adaryll TajJackson Jr., Taryll Adren Jackson and Tito Joe TJ Jackson, who are members of the group 3T. Tito Jackson performs in Liverpool, England, in 2009.Toriano Adaryll “Tito” Jackson, the third of the Jackson children, has three sons: Toriano Adaryll “Taj”Jackson Jr., Taryll Adren Jackson and Tito Joe “TJ” Jackson, who are members of the group 3T. Tito Jackson performs in Liverpool, England, in 2009.

Toriano Adaryll Taj Jackson Jr., Tito Jackson's oldest son, is part of the group 3T. Here he performs in Cardiff, Wales, in October 2011. Toriano Adaryll “Taj” Jackson Jr., Tito Jackson’s oldest son, is part of the group 3T. Here he performs in Cardiff, Wales, in October 2011.

Taryll Adren Jackson, Tito Jackson's middle son, performs with his bothers in memory of his uncle, Michael, in 2011.Taryll Adren Jackson, Tito Jackson’s middle son, performs with his bothers in memory of his uncle, Michael, in 2011.

Tito Joe TJ Jackson performs in honor of his uncle, Michael.Tito Joe “TJ” Jackson performs in honor of his uncle, Michael.

Jermaine La Jaune Jackson is the fourth of Joe and Katherine's children. He has seven children. With Hazel Gordy, Jackson had three children: Jermaine Lu Juane Jr., Autumn Joy and Jaimy. He had two children with Margaret Maldonado: Jeremy and Jourdynn. His two youngest children, Jaffar and Jermajesty, were born to Alejandra Oaziaza. He has no children with his current wife, Halima Rashid. Jackson and Rashid are pictured at the Royal Festival Hall in London in October 2010.Jermaine La Jaune Jackson is the fourth of Joe and Katherine’s children. He has seven children. With Hazel Gordy, Jackson had three children: Jermaine Lu Juane Jr., Autumn Joy and Jaimy. He had two children with Margaret Maldonado: Jeremy and Jourdynn. His two youngest children, Jaffar and Jermajesty, were born to Alejandra Oaziaza. He has no children with his current wife, Halima Rashid. Jackson and Rashid are pictured at the Royal Festival Hall in London in October 2010.

La Toya Yvonne Jackson, the fifth of Joe and Katherine Jackson's children, attends the world premiere of Dancing In Jaffa at the Tribeca Film Festival in New York in April. She is one of the film's executive producers.La Toya Yvonne Jackson, the fifth of Joe and Katherine Jackson’s children, attends the world premiere of “Dancing In Jaffa” at the Tribeca Film Festival in New York in April. She is one of the film’s executive producers.

Marlon David Jackson was born a year before brother Michael Jackson. He has three children with Carol Parker: Valencia, Brittany and Marlon David Jr.Marlon David Jackson was born a year before brother Michael Jackson. He has three children with Carol Parker: Valencia, Brittany and Marlon David Jr.

Pop superstar Michael Jackson, the most famous of Joe and Katherine's children, had three kids. He fathered his first two, Prince Michael Joseph Jackson Jr. and Paris Katherine Jackson, with Deborah Jeanne Rowe. His youngest, Prince Michael Joseph Blanket Jackson II, was born to an unidentified woman. The singer died in 2009.Pop superstar Michael Jackson, the most famous of Joe and Katherine’s children, had three kids. He fathered his first two, Prince Michael Joseph Jackson Jr. and Paris Katherine Jackson, with Deborah Jeanne Rowe. His youngest, Prince Michael Joseph “Blanket” Jackson II, was born to an unidentified woman. The singer died in 2009.

Prince Michael Joseph Jackson Jr. attends a baseball game in August 2012 during a visit to his late father's hometown of Gary, Indiana.Prince Michael Joseph Jackson Jr. attends a baseball game in August 2012 during a visit to his late father’s hometown of Gary, Indiana.

Prince Michael Joseph Blanket Jackson attends the Las Vegas premiere of Michael Jackson: The Immortal World by Cirque du Soleil in December 2011. He is Michael Jackson's youngest son.Prince Michael Joseph “Blanket” Jackson attends the Las Vegas premiere of “Michael Jackson: The Immortal World” by Cirque du Soleil in December 2011. He is Michael Jackson’s youngest son.

Steven Randall Randy Jackson is the second youngest of Joe and Katherine Jackson's children. He has four children: Steveanna, Genevieve, Donte and Steven Randall Jr. Alejandra Oaziaza is the mother of the latter three. She later married and had two children with Randy's brother Jermaine.Steven Randall “Randy” Jackson is the second youngest of Joe and Katherine Jackson’s children. He has four children: Steveanna, Genevieve, Donte and Steven Randall Jr. Alejandra Oaziaza is the mother of the latter three. She later married and had two children with Randy’s brother Jermaine.

Genevieve Jackson, pictured in November 2011, is Randy Jackson's second child.Genevieve Jackson, pictured in November 2011, is Randy Jackson’s second child.

Janet Damita Jo Jackson is the youngest of Joe and Katherine Jackson's children. The pop star has no children. She was briefly married to singer James DeBarge before secretly marrying dancer Rene Elizondo in 1991. The couple divorced in 2000, and she married businessman Wissam Al Mana in 2012. She's pictured performing at the Sydney Opera House in 2011 in Australia.Janet Damita Jo Jackson is the youngest of Joe and Katherine Jackson’s children. The pop star has no children. She was briefly married to singer James DeBarge before secretly marrying dancer Rene Elizondo in 1991. The couple divorced in 2000, and she married businessman Wissam Al Mana in 2012. She’s pictured performing at the Sydney Opera House in 2011 in Australia.


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Photos: All in the Jackson familyPhotos: All in the Jackson family

The death in 2009 of superstar Michael Jackson, who died of cardiac arrest at the age of 50, sent shockwaves around the world. The death in 2009 of superstar Michael Jackson, who died of cardiac arrest at the age of 50, sent shockwaves around the world.

The Jackson 5 perform on a TV show circa 1969. From left, Tito Jackson, Marlon Jackson, Michael Jackson, Jackie Jackson and Jermaine Jackson.The Jackson 5 perform on a TV show circa 1969. From left, Tito Jackson, Marlon Jackson, Michael Jackson, Jackie Jackson and Jermaine Jackson.

Michael Jackson quickly became the stand out star of the Jackson 5. Here he performs onstage circa 1970. Michael Jackson quickly became the stand out star of the Jackson 5. Here he performs onstage circa 1970.

Michael Jackson poses during a portrait session in Los Angeles in 1971.Michael Jackson poses during a portrait session in Los Angeles in 1971.

Michael Jackson performs with The Jacksons in New Orleans on October 3, 1979.Michael Jackson performs with The Jacksons in New Orleans on October 3, 1979.

Jackson achieved superstardom with his solo career in the 1980s. Here Jackson is shown on stage in Kansas in 1983.Jackson achieved superstardom with his solo career in the 1980s. Here Jackson is shown on stage in Kansas in 1983.

Michael Jackson performs on stage circa 1990.Michael Jackson performs on stage circa 1990.

Jackson broke a world record during the Bad tour in 1988 when 504,000 people attending seven sold-out shows at Wembley Stadium in London.Jackson broke a world record during the Bad tour in 1988 when 504,000 people attending seven sold-out shows at Wembley Stadium in London.

Jackson perfoms in concert circa 1991 in New York City. Jackson perfoms in concert circa 1991 in New York City.

Known for his dance moves, Jackson is seen here jumping in the air while performing during the Dangerous tour in 1992.Known for his dance moves, Jackson is seen here jumping in the air while performing during the Dangerous tour in 1992.

Michael Jackson performs in Rotterdam, Netherlands.Michael Jackson performs in Rotterdam, Netherlands.

Jackson performs with his brothers.Jackson performs with his brothers.

Jackson performs during the Bad tour at Wembley Stadium in London.Jackson performs during the Bad tour at Wembley Stadium in London.

Jackson performs during the taping of American Bandstand's 50th: A Celebration in 2002.Jackson performs during the taping of “American Bandstand’s 50th: A Celebration” in 2002.

Michael Jackson earned the Legend Award during the MTV Video Music Awards in Tokyo in 2006.Michael Jackson earned the Legend Award during the MTV Video Music Awards in Tokyo in 2006.


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Photos: Michael Jackson, King of PopPhotos: Michael Jackson, King of Pop

But her most dramatic words were about how Michael Jackson’s death affected his children — Prince, Paris and Blanket Jackson, for whom she now cooks at their grandmother’s home.

“They talk about their father a lot,” Chase said. “It’s just something that they’ll never get over — the love and how much they miss their father.”

Jackson’s mother and three children are suing AEG Live, contending the concert promoter was liable in his death because it negligently hired, retained or supervised Murray, who was convicted of involuntary manslaughter.

Murray told police he used the surgical anesthetic propofol to treat Jackson’s insomnia. The coroner ruled propofol killed him.

AEG Live lawyers argue Jackson chose and supervised Murray, and their executives had no way of knowing the doctor was using the dangerous treatment.

Watch: Anderson Cooper interviews Conrad Murray

Paris testifies

The day Paris Jackson attempted suicide, AEG Live lawyers told reporters they couldn’t promise not to use the 15-year-old’s testimony in their defense. Since Paris is one of the plaintiffs, they were able to compel the teen to sit for two days of questioning in March.

Jackson lawyers, however, told the judge Tuesday that Paris is unavailable to appear in person since she is still being treated in a hospital. AEG Live is able to use the video recording of her deposition, which they began doing Tuesday afternoon.

The first clip shown to jurors was an answer to a question by AEG Live lawyer Marvin Putnam about former Jackson nanny Grace Rwaramba, who was fired two months before Jackson’s death.

“My dad didn’t like her, so he tried to, like, keep her away from us,” Paris said. “So he sent her on errands a lot.”

Her father was reluctant to fire Rwaramba because “he felt bad because she didn’t really have a lot of money,” she testified.

“He said she was sneaky and she wasn’t an honest person and she lied a lot,” Paris said.

Paris related an incident that happened when she was “really young.” She prefaced the story by saying it was “real creepy” and “this is going to freak you out.”

The nanny would sneak into a doctor’s hotel room and “he’d wake up and she’d be in his bed,” Paris said. “So, yeah, it’s kind of creepy.” It was unclear whose bed Paris was referring to since it was an isolated clip played without context.

Putnam asked her why her father didn’t just make the nanny stay away. “He sent her to India to get some stuff,” Paris said. “She kept coming back.”

The AEG Live defense team apparently played the video to counter Chase’s testimony about Rwaramba, who is expected to be a key Jackson witness later in the trial.

Chase, in testimony Wednesday, suggested that Paris’ account of Rwaramba was influenced by her feeling of abandonment caused by the nanny’s departure from her life just before her father’s death.

“The children felt abandoned,” Chase said. “They weren’t happy.”

“This was the mother they knew,” Chase said of Rwaramba. “She was there when they were born.”

Rwaramba is back in her life in recent weeks following Paris’ hospitalization, she said.

“She’s turned to her grandmother,” Chase said. “She’s turned to Grace and her biological mother, Debbie Rowe.”

Paris’ ‘Daddy days’

“Being Daddy’s little girl, she was devastated, devastated and lost,” said Chase, who was with Paris every day until her attempted suicide on June 4, 2013. “She’s looking, for there was so much love between her and her father. She’s lost. She’s searching. She’s sad.”

The “entire household” is worried about how Paris is dealing with the loss of her father four years ago, Chase said.

“Every girl needs their father,” she said. “I would be devastated, too, if that happened to me.”

Paris “breaks down, she cries,” Chase said. “She talks about him.”

“She’s trying to find herself, trying to find who she is and it’s taking a lot of love and understanding to keep her together,” she said.

Chase told jurors about a very happy day for Paris — her 11th birthday party in April 2009. Her father told the children they could eat whatever they wanted, which was a rare treat for them. Cheese pizza, hot wings and banana splits were on the menu, she said.

The dining room was decorated with Michael Jackson posters and album covers, while his music was played “because this is what she wanted for her 11th birthday,” Chase testified. “She was just ecstatic.”

“Just when you thought that was enough, he took his children to the backyard for a Cirque du Soleil-type performance for her,” she said. Men on stilts, a woman inside a big balloon and circus acts “brought tears to my eyes … It was the most beautiful expression of love I’ve ever seen.”

“Paris hasn’t had a birthday party since,” Chase said. “She doesn’t want one.”

Paris “remembers the Daddy days and her birthday,” she said.

See also: Judge overseeing Jackson trial orders investigation into Paris Jackson incident

Prince’s testimony

Prince Jackson, 16, also made a brief video appearance in Tuesday’s court session. AEG Live lawyers played a short clip from his deposition to counter Chase’s testimony that Jackson was so weak at one point in June that his son, then 12, had to help him walk up stairs.

“Was there ever a time that he came home from rehearsals so tired that you had to help him upstairs?” Putnam asked Prince.

“I wouldn’t be able to, but no,” Prince answered.

Chase testified about Prince’s relationship with his father and the devastation his death caused.

“Prince has always been, even at 12, the little man — daddy’s little man,” she said. “He wanted his father to be very proud of him, which Michael was.”

The teen has “the weight of the world is on his shoulders, the eldest, big brother and father figure to his siblings,” Chase testified. “It’s a lot for him, growing, liking girls. He wishes his father was here to give him advice. It’s devastating to him.”

Blanket’s ‘dance moves like his father’

Blanket, who was 7 when his father died, is now 11 and a fifth-grade graduate of his home school. “l keep thinking he’s older because he’s so smart,” Chase said.

“As the littlest, he has his older siblings to protect him, but I still think the youngest child will be the most affected,” she testified. “Being the baby, it’s a lot of remembering what daddy did, and it’s constant nonstop talking of him and his father’s relationship together.”

Like Prince and Paris, Blanket is “feeling a little lost as well,” Chase said.

He has to dress up each day, even though he is taught by a tutor at the family’s Calabasas, California, home. But he can wear what he wants on Fridays — which usually is a T-shirt from the Cirque du Soleil “Immortal” show based on his father’s music, Chase said. “He wears it constantly.”

“He does dance moves like his father,” she testified.

Gallery: Michael Jackson, King of Pop

My ‘junior clients’

Michael Jackson hired Chase as his family’s chef without meeting her — based on the recommendation of Prince, Paris and Blanket, she testified.

She first met with her “junior clients” in the kitchen of the rented Los Angeles mansion where they were living while Jackson prepared for his comeback concerts.

The interview involved a discussion of “everything from food to video games,” she said. “They wanted to make sure I knew healthy food.”

“‘We eat healthy,” Chase said the children told her. “We don’t eat any beef or pork. Daddy likes apricots, we like fruit and Blanket likes mangoes.”

“It just felt like this was a place I needed to be,” Chase said. “It was a beautiful beginning.”

Dining with Daddy

Meals were “their time to bond,” Chase said. “This was his time with them privately.”

Chase — a graduate of the Cordon Bleu Culinary Academy in Paris — would set the table with a different theme for each lunch, featuring recipes from different countries, so the children would learn something while eating.

“One day we would have east Indian food,” she said. “We would discuss what part of India we were eating from.”

The children looked forward to “comfort food Saturdays” — which might include fried chicken — to break up the monotony of healthy eating, she said.

Michael Jackson was “very much into Mexican” and his favorite meal was vegan tacos, she said. The Jackson lawyers showed jurors a photo of the dish Tuesday.

April: ‘A good feeling of love’

Music echoing through the Carolwood Drive mansion was a mix of Disney, Rolling Stones, David Bowie and classical, Chase said. Fireplaces stayed burning despite the warm temperatures outside. “It was a good feeling,” Chase testified.

Animals roaming through the home included a chocolate lab named Kenya, cats Katie and Thriller, a rabbit and a talking bird who would “whistle when pretty girls go by,” Chase said.

Prince had a pet rat he carried around, while Paris would host tea parties in her backyard doll house for the animals. The dog would jump in the pool with the kids when they swam on Saturdays, Chase said.

The children would “run to him like lighting” when their father came home from a rehearsal,” she said. “They would hang on him. It would bring tears to my eyes.”

Jackson would play games with the children and read to them at the end of the day, she said. “His personality with his children was warm and loving.”

Jackson was “a disciplinarian when it was needed,” she said. The children had to be in bed at a certain time and school started on schedule.

Gallery: All in the Jackson family

Snail Farming

Jackson made sure school work was “interactive” for his children, including one science project for Paris that involved a night time hunt for snails, Chase said.

“So far we have a daddy snail, but we don’t have a mommy and a baby snail,” Paris told Chase one evening. That triggered a snail hunt around the mansion grounds, she said.

“I didn’t know how he would feel about his daughter and me out snail hunting at night,” she said, “but he was fine.”

Jackson joined them in constructing a snail farm in glass vases on the kitchen counter.

‘Box of Happiness’

After working for Jackson in March and April, Chase was suddenly dismissed in May because of what Jackson’s assistant told her was “a change of management.” She was not allowed to say good bye to the children, she said.

The assistant called her back a month later and asked her to return to the job, which she did. But this time, her paychecks would be cut by AEG Live, she was told.

Paris greeted her return with a gift. It was a shoe box filled with stuffed animals and coloring books she called a “Box of Happiness.”

Paris learned “giving” from her father, she said.

“She’d go get clothing maybe she wasn’t wearing anymore and she would cut them to make them into little skirts and hand sew them,” Chase said.

“I’m making these little skirts that I’m going to put in a box and ship overseas to others that aren’t as privileged,” she said Paris told her.

Empty pantry, declined credit

The happy home she left in April was changed when she returned in June, Chase said. It was three weeks before Jackson died there.

“The kitchen pantry was bare, and the only things in the refrigerator were Coca-Colas, Red Bull and Starbuck’s coffee drinks, which I know Mr. Jackson was not drinking,” the chef said.

When Chase went to the grocery store to stock up the Jackson credit card was declined, she said.

Jackson himself “looked very different,” she said. “He appeared very weak. He looked thinner, undernourished.”

The “obvious difference” in Jackson from April to June “concerned me greatly,” Chase said.

“He came to me and pulled me to the side and said ‘Where have you gone? I had no idea you left. I need you to keep me healthy. I’m working hard. They’re killing me,’” she testified.

“He told me ‘I need you to keep me healthy. I don’t know why you left. I need you to keep me and my children healthy.’ I looked at him with great concern,” she said. “When he said that … I thought he was being overworked. He was over rehearsed.”

Jackson was excited that she would again be feeding him, she said.

“I knew I had to get this man as healthy as a possible, but I did not know why he was deteriorating,” she said.

Another change she witnessed in June was the presence of Dr. Conrad Murray. He paid some visits in April, but he was there almost every day in June, she said. The doctor would bring empty oxygen tanks from Jackson’s upstairs bedroom each morning.

“I was concerned,” Chase testified. “I had no idea what they were used for. I didn’t ask, but it was strange.”

The world would later learn that Murray was using oxygen when he administered propofol each night to put Jackson to sleep.

‘A loud crash’

The Jackson lawsuit alleges that AEG Live executives, including CEO Randy Phillips and Co-CEO Paul Gongaware, pressured Murray to have Jackson at more rehearsals. They cite a meeting they believe was held at Jackson’s home around the second week of June as evidence.

Jackson, wearing a surgical mask and covered by several layers of clothing, appeared “scared and frightened” as he walked down his stairs to join Phillips, Gongaware, Dr. Murray and his manager Frank Dileo for the meeting in his parlor, Chase said.

“I immediately heard a loud crash,” she testified. A “very, very expensive vase” sitting next to Jackson’s chair was smashed.

Jackson “seemed very firm with them,” she said. The judge would not let her tell jurors what she heard him saying to the AEG Live executives. But there were “loud voices” and everyone was talking over each other,” she said.

Jackson left the meeting, followed by Dr. Murray, who seemed “very upset,” she said.

“I can’t take this s–t,” Murray said, according to Chase.

When she saw Jackson later, he seemed to have “the weight of the world on his shoulders,” she said. He was “concerned, frightened and scared; a lot of those emotions.”

Watch: Michael Jackson’s attorney talks about the singer’s health

The day he died

Chase has publicly recounted several times the events at the house the day Michael Jackson died, including in interviews and testimony in Murray’s criminal trial. She described it again Tuesday for jurors in the civil trial.

Murray “was panicked” as he screamed for Chase to call Prince and the security guard to go upstairs to help him.

“Hurry Dr. Murray needs you,” she said she told Prince, who was playing in the den. “There may be something wrong with your father.”

She returned to her lunch preparations, failing to alert the security guard in the shack near the kitchen door. Murray never asked her to call 911 for an ambulance.

Chase realized there was a grave problem when the housekeepers began crying “Mr. Jackson may be dead,” she said. “You could feel the energy in the house was changing.”

Prince screamed “Daddy” and Paris screamed a “blood curdling, out of her mind ‘Daddy!’”

“I grabbed them and held their hands and said ‘Let’s pray. Father God, please let nothing be wrong with this man.’”

Paramedics were soon running up the the stairs. Head of security Alberto Alvarez asked Chase to leave the house. “He’ll be fine,” Alvarez told her.

Paris tried to reach her father as paramedics and Dr. Murray worked to resuscitate him up the stairs, she said.

“We were literally pulling her by her ankles down the stairs as she was trying to go back up, screaming ‘Daddy, Daddy, Daddy!’”

Chase did not see the Jackson children until she was allowed to visit with them weeks later, she said. Katherine Jackson hired her as her family chef last July at the request of Prince, Paris and Blanket.

Watch: Michael Jackson from 2001-2009


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Sony gives brief look at the PlayStation 4 experience


What do you think about the design of the PlayStation 4 interface?


(Credit:
Screenshot by Christopher MacManus/CNET)

Despite the bountiful PlayStation 4 chatter and coverage, some people still don’t have an idea what it’s like to actually use the highly anticipated gaming device. A new video produced by Sony gives a feel for the console by showing several actors playing games, sharing gameplay footage, and setting up downloads remotely.

While the presentation comes off a bit cheesy (I mean, really, do people ever act like this in real life?), several interesting observations can be gleaned from the footage.

Right off the bat, you get a sense of the
PlayStation 4 software menu structure, how you can like content, and how gamers can speak to one another regardless of what game they’re playing (referred to as cross-game chat). The bromance expressed in the video might make you groan, though.

The video demonstrates how easily people can capture gameplay video and share that content with friends — often demonstrated as a way to show a fellow gamer how to defeat a difficult encounter. With the ability to watch those same videos and remotely set up purchases, smartphone users (compatibility’s unknown at this time) can get in on the action as well. (Little known fact: the Sony Entertainment Network store Web site lets you set up remote game and content downloads for the PlayStation 3 and Vita.)

Did any PS4 feature seen in the video resonate with you? One that jumped out to me was the option to separately download the multiplayer portion of a game (as opposed to a full game install) so you can join a friend as quickly as possible.

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Paris Jackson ‘lost’ after dad’s death

Los Angeles (CNN) — Paris and Prince Jackson made their first appearances Tuesday in the wrongful death trial against their father’s last concert promoter.

AEG Live lawyers played short video clips from the depositions of Michael Jackson’s oldest children in court to counter testimony from their chef.

Kai Chase, who cooked for the singer and his three children in the last months of his life, described what she said was Jackson’s physical deterioration just before his death.

Jackson was strong, healthy and active in April, but was so weak by June that Prince, then 12, had to help his father walk up stairs, Chase testified.

Chase also repeated the testimony she gave in the criminal trial of Dr. Conrad Murray about the day Jackson died.


Paris Jackson’s ‘cry for help’

Randy Phillips: He's president of AEG Live, the concert promoter that contracted with Michael Jackson for his This Is It comeback shows set to start in London in July 2009. The Jackson lawsuit says Phillips supervised Dr. Conrad Murray's treatment of Jackson in the weeks before his death, making the company liable for damages. E-mails between Phillips and other executives showed they were worried about Jackson's missed rehearsals and sought Murray's help getting him ready.Randy Phillips: He’s president of AEG Live, the concert promoter that contracted with Michael Jackson for his “This Is It” comeback shows set to start in London in July 2009. The Jackson lawsuit says Phillips supervised Dr. Conrad Murray’s treatment of Jackson in the weeks before his death, making the company liable for damages. E-mails between Phillips and other executives showed they were worried about Jackson’s missed rehearsals and sought Murray’s help getting him ready.

Katherine Jackson: Michael's mother, 82, was deposed for nine hours over three days by AEG Live lawyers. As the guardian of her son's three children, she is a plaintiff in the wrongful death lawsuit against the company that promoted Michael Jackson's comeback concerts.Katherine Jackson: Michael’s mother, 82, was deposed for nine hours over three days by AEG Live lawyers. As the guardian of her son’s three children, she is a plaintiff in the wrongful death lawsuit against the company that promoted Michael Jackson’s comeback concerts.

Prince Jackson: Michael's oldest son is considered a key witness in the Jacksons' case against AEG Live, since he is expected to testify about what his father told him about the concert promoter in the last days of his life. Prince, who turned 16 in February, is becoming more independent -- he now has a driver's license and jobs.Prince Jackson: Michael’s oldest son is considered a key witness in the Jacksons’ case against AEG Live, since he is expected to testify about what his father told him about the concert promoter in the last days of his life. Prince, who turned 16 in February, is becoming more independent — he now has a driver’s license and jobs.

Paris Jackson: Michael's daughter, who turned 15 on April 3, is on the list of witnesses and was questioned by AEG Live lawyers for several hours on March 21 about her father's death. Paris is an outspoken teen who often posts messages to her 1 million-plus Twitter followers.Paris Jackson: Michael’s daughter, who turned 15 on April 3, is on the list of witnesses and was questioned by AEG Live lawyers for several hours on March 21 about her father’s death. Paris is an outspoken teen who often posts messages to her 1 million-plus Twitter followers.

Blanket Jackson: Although AEG Live asked the judge to order Blanket, 11, to sit for a deposition, and he is one of the four plaintiffs suing them, Michael's youngest son will not be a witness in the trial. His doctor submitted a note to the court saying it would be medically detrimental to the child.Blanket Jackson: Although AEG Live asked the judge to order Blanket, 11, to sit for a deposition, and he is one of the four plaintiffs suing them, Michael’s youngest son will not be a witness in the trial. His doctor submitted a note to the court saying it would be “medically detrimental” to the child.

Kevin Boyle: The Los Angeles personal injury lawyer is leading the Jackson team of at least six attorneys in the wrongful death suit against AEG Live. One of his notable cases was a large settlement with Boeing on behalf of two soldiers injured when their helicopter malfunctioned and crashed in Iraq.Kevin Boyle: The Los Angeles personal injury lawyer is leading the Jackson team of at least six attorneys in the wrongful death suit against AEG Live. One of his notable cases was a large settlement with Boeing on behalf of two soldiers injured when their helicopter malfunctioned and crashed in Iraq.

Perry Sanders, Jr.: Katherine Jackson's personal lawyer is helping steer the Jackson matriarch through her relations with her son's estate, probate court and the wrongful death suit. He is also known for representing the family of Biggie Smalls in their suit against the city of Los Angeles over the rapper's death investigation.Perry Sanders, Jr.: Katherine Jackson’s personal lawyer is helping steer the Jackson matriarch through her relations with her son’s estate, probate court and the wrongful death suit. He is also known for representing the family of Biggie Smalls in their suit against the city of Los Angeles over the rapper’s death investigation.

Marvin Putnam: He's the lead lawyer for AEG Live, defending against the wrongful death suit. The primary focus of his legal practice is media in defense of their First Amendment rights, according to his official biography.Marvin Putnam: He’s the lead lawyer for AEG Live, defending against the wrongful death suit. The primary focus of his legal practice is “media in defense of their First Amendment rights,” according to his official biography.

Philip Anschutz: The billionaire owner of AEG, parent company of AEG Live, is on the Jacksons' witness list. He is the force behind the effort to build a football stadium in downtown Los Angeles to lure a National Football League team to the city. He recently pulled his company off the market after trying to sell it for $8 billion.Philip Anschutz: The billionaire owner of AEG, parent company of AEG Live, is on the Jacksons’ witness list. He is the force behind the effort to build a football stadium in downtown Los Angeles to lure a National Football League team to the city. He recently pulled his company off the market after trying to sell it for $8 billion.

Tim Leiweke: He was recently fired as AEG's president as Philip Anschutz announced he was taking a more active role in the company. The Jackson lawyers say Leiweke's e-mail exchanges with executives under him concerning Michael Jackson's health are important evidence in their case.Tim Leiweke: He was recently fired as AEG’s president as Philip Anschutz announced he was taking a more active role in the company. The Jackson lawyers say Leiweke’s e-mail exchanges with executives under him concerning Michael Jackson’s health are important evidence in their case.

Joe Jackson: Michael's father, 84, is on the witness list for the trial and may testify. The Jackson family patriarch, who lives in Las Vegas separately from his wife, has suffered several ministrokes in the last year, which some close to him say have affected him.Joe Jackson: Michael’s father, 84, is on the witness list for the trial and may testify. The Jackson family patriarch, who lives in Las Vegas separately from his wife, has suffered several ministrokes in the last year, which some close to him say have affected him.

Paul Gongaware: The AEG Live co-CEO worked closely with Michael Jackson as he prepared for his comeback concerts. He testified at Dr. Conrad Murray's criminal trial that he contacted the physician and negotiated his hiring at the request of Jackson. AEG lawyers say it was Jackson who chose, hired and supervised Murray. Gongaware knew Jackson well, having been tour manager for the singer in previous years.Paul Gongaware: The AEG Live co-CEO worked closely with Michael Jackson as he prepared for his comeback concerts. He testified at Dr. Conrad Murray’s criminal trial that he contacted the physician and negotiated his hiring at the request of Jackson. AEG lawyers say it was Jackson who chose, hired and supervised Murray. Gongaware knew Jackson well, having been tour manager for the singer in previous years.

Kenny Ortega: He was chosen by Michael Jackson and AEG Live to direct and choreograph the This Is It shows. Ortega, who choreographed for Jackson's Dangerous and HIStory tours, testified at Dr. Conrad Murray's criminal trial that Jackson was frail at a rehearsal days before his death.Kenny Ortega: He was chosen by Michael Jackson and AEG Live to direct and choreograph the “This Is It” shows. Ortega, who choreographed for Jackson’s “Dangerous” and “HIStory” tours, testified at Dr. Conrad Murray’s criminal trial that “Jackson was frail” at a rehearsal days before his death.

Dr. Conrad Murray: He was Michael Jackson's personal physician in the two months before his death, giving him nightly infusions of the surgical anesthetic that the coroner ruled led to his death. Murray, who is appealing his involuntary manslaughter conviction, has sworn that he would invoke his Fifth Amendment protection from self-incrimination and refused to testify in the civil trial. There is a chance that Murray will be brought into court from jail to testify outside the presence of the jury to allow the judge to determine if he would be ordered to testify.Dr. Conrad Murray: He was Michael Jackson’s personal physician in the two months before his death, giving him nightly infusions of the surgical anesthetic that the coroner ruled led to his death. Murray, who is appealing his involuntary manslaughter conviction, has sworn that he would invoke his Fifth Amendment protection from self-incrimination and refused to testify in the civil trial. There is a chance that Murray will be brought into court from jail to testify outside the presence of the jury to allow the judge to determine if he would be ordered to testify.

John Branca: He's one of two executors of Michael Jackson's estate. Branca was Jackson's lawyer until about seven years before his death. He said Jackson rehired him just weeks before he died.John Branca: He’s one of two executors of Michael Jackson’s estate. Branca was Jackson’s lawyer until about seven years before his death. He said Jackson rehired him just weeks before he died.


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Who's who in Jackson trialWho’s who in Jackson trial

Paris Jackson made headlines recently when she was rushed to the hospital after she reportedly cut one of her wrists. Jackson is the second child of famed singer Michael Jackson and Deborah Jeanne Rowe. Click through to see more of the Jackson family tree.Paris Jackson made headlines recently when she was rushed to the hospital after she reportedly cut one of her wrists. Jackson is the second child of famed singer Michael Jackson and Deborah Jeanne Rowe. Click through to see more of the Jackson family tree.

Katherine Jackson is the matriarch of the Jackson family. Here she attends the hand and footprint ceremony for son Michael at Grauman's Chinese Theatre in January 2012 in Los Angeles.Katherine Jackson is the matriarch of the Jackson family. Here she attends the hand and footprint ceremony for son Michael at Grauman’s Chinese Theatre in January 2012 in Los Angeles.

Joseph Walker Joe Jackson is the patriarch of the Jackson family. He's pictured at a March 2011 press conference in Madrid, Spain.Joseph Walker “Joe” Jackson is the patriarch of the Jackson family. He’s pictured at a March 2011 press conference in Madrid, Spain.

Maureen Reillette Rebbie Jackson is Joe and Katherine's oldest child. She scored a hit in the 1980s with the song Centipede. She has three children: Stacee, Yashi and Austin Auggie Brown. Here she attends the world premiere of Michael Jackson: The Life of an Icon in London in November 2011.Maureen Reillette “Rebbie” Jackson is Joe and Katherine’s oldest child. She scored a hit in the 1980s with the song “Centipede.” She has three children: Stacee, Yashi and Austin “Auggie” Brown. Here she attends the world premiere of “Michael Jackson: The Life of an Icon” in London in November 2011.

Yashi Brown, Rebbie Jackson's second child, is a poet and advocate on mental health issues. Yashi Brown, Rebbie Jackson’s second child, is a poet and advocate on mental health issues.

Rebbie Jackson's youngest, Austin Auggie Brown, is a musician. He's pictured at a December 2012 benefit in Hollywood. Rebbie Jackson’s youngest, Austin “Auggie” Brown, is a musician. He’s pictured at a December 2012 benefit in Hollywood.

Sigmund Esco Jackie Jackson, center, is the second of Joe and Katherine's children. He has two children with Enid Spann: Sigmund Esco Siggy Jackson Jr. and Brandi Jackson. Here he performs with brothers Tito, left, and Marlon Jackson in Los Angeles in July 2012.Sigmund Esco “Jackie” Jackson, center, is the second of Joe and Katherine’s children. He has two children with Enid Spann: Sigmund Esco “Siggy” Jackson Jr. and Brandi Jackson. Here he performs with brothers Tito, left, and Marlon Jackson in Los Angeles in July 2012.

Toriano Adaryll Tito Jackson, the third of the Jackson children, has three sons: Toriano Adaryll TajJackson Jr., Taryll Adren Jackson and Tito Joe TJ Jackson, who are members of the group 3T. Tito Jackson performs in Liverpool, England, in 2009.Toriano Adaryll “Tito” Jackson, the third of the Jackson children, has three sons: Toriano Adaryll “Taj”Jackson Jr., Taryll Adren Jackson and Tito Joe “TJ” Jackson, who are members of the group 3T. Tito Jackson performs in Liverpool, England, in 2009.

Toriano Adaryll Taj Jackson Jr., Tito Jackson's oldest son, is part of the group 3T. Here he performs in Cardiff, Wales, in October 2011. Toriano Adaryll “Taj” Jackson Jr., Tito Jackson’s oldest son, is part of the group 3T. Here he performs in Cardiff, Wales, in October 2011.

Taryll Adren Jackson, Tito Jackson's middle son, performs with his bothers in memory of his uncle, Michael, in 2011.Taryll Adren Jackson, Tito Jackson’s middle son, performs with his bothers in memory of his uncle, Michael, in 2011.

Tito Joe TJ Jackson performs in honor of his uncle, Michael.Tito Joe “TJ” Jackson performs in honor of his uncle, Michael.

Jermaine La Jaune Jackson is the fourth of Joe and Katherine's children. He has seven children. With Hazel Gordy, Jackson had three children: Jermaine Lu Juane Jr., Autumn Joy and Jaimy. He had two children with Margaret Maldonado: Jeremy and Jourdynn. His two youngest children, Jaffar and Jermajesty, were born to Alejandra Oaziaza. He has no children with his current wife, Halima Rashid. Jackson and Rashid are pictured at the Royal Festival Hall in London in October 2010.Jermaine La Jaune Jackson is the fourth of Joe and Katherine’s children. He has seven children. With Hazel Gordy, Jackson had three children: Jermaine Lu Juane Jr., Autumn Joy and Jaimy. He had two children with Margaret Maldonado: Jeremy and Jourdynn. His two youngest children, Jaffar and Jermajesty, were born to Alejandra Oaziaza. He has no children with his current wife, Halima Rashid. Jackson and Rashid are pictured at the Royal Festival Hall in London in October 2010.

La Toya Yvonne Jackson, the fifth of Joe and Katherine Jackson's children, attends the world premiere of Dancing In Jaffa at the Tribeca Film Festival in New York in April. She is one of the film's executive producers.La Toya Yvonne Jackson, the fifth of Joe and Katherine Jackson’s children, attends the world premiere of “Dancing In Jaffa” at the Tribeca Film Festival in New York in April. She is one of the film’s executive producers.

Marlon David Jackson was born a year before brother Michael Jackson. He has three children with Carol Parker: Valencia, Brittany and Marlon David Jr.Marlon David Jackson was born a year before brother Michael Jackson. He has three children with Carol Parker: Valencia, Brittany and Marlon David Jr.

Pop superstar Michael Jackson, the most famous of Joe and Katherine's children, had three kids. He fathered his first two, Prince Michael Joseph Jackson Jr. and Paris Katherine Jackson, with Deborah Jeanne Rowe. His youngest, Prince Michael Joseph Blanket Jackson II, was born to an unidentified woman. The singer died in 2009.Pop superstar Michael Jackson, the most famous of Joe and Katherine’s children, had three kids. He fathered his first two, Prince Michael Joseph Jackson Jr. and Paris Katherine Jackson, with Deborah Jeanne Rowe. His youngest, Prince Michael Joseph “Blanket” Jackson II, was born to an unidentified woman. The singer died in 2009.

Prince Michael Joseph Jackson Jr. attends a baseball game in August 2012 during a visit to his late father's hometown of Gary, Indiana.Prince Michael Joseph Jackson Jr. attends a baseball game in August 2012 during a visit to his late father’s hometown of Gary, Indiana.

Prince Michael Joseph Blanket Jackson attends the Las Vegas premiere of Michael Jackson: The Immortal World by Cirque du Soleil in December 2011. He is Michael Jackson's youngest son.Prince Michael Joseph “Blanket” Jackson attends the Las Vegas premiere of “Michael Jackson: The Immortal World” by Cirque du Soleil in December 2011. He is Michael Jackson’s youngest son.

Steven Randall Randy Jackson is the second youngest of Joe and Katherine Jackson's children. He has four children: Steveanna, Genevieve, Donte and Steven Randall Jr. Alejandra Oaziaza is the mother of the latter three. She later married and had two children with Randy's brother Jermaine.Steven Randall “Randy” Jackson is the second youngest of Joe and Katherine Jackson’s children. He has four children: Steveanna, Genevieve, Donte and Steven Randall Jr. Alejandra Oaziaza is the mother of the latter three. She later married and had two children with Randy’s brother Jermaine.

Genevieve Jackson, pictured in November 2011, is Randy Jackson's second child.Genevieve Jackson, pictured in November 2011, is Randy Jackson’s second child.

Janet Damita Jo Jackson is the youngest of Joe and Katherine Jackson's children. The pop star has no children. She was briefly married to singer James DeBarge before secretly marrying dancer Rene Elizondo in 1991. The couple divorced in 2000, and she married businessman Wissam Al Mana in 2012. She's pictured performing at the Sydney Opera House in 2011 in Australia.Janet Damita Jo Jackson is the youngest of Joe and Katherine Jackson’s children. The pop star has no children. She was briefly married to singer James DeBarge before secretly marrying dancer Rene Elizondo in 1991. The couple divorced in 2000, and she married businessman Wissam Al Mana in 2012. She’s pictured performing at the Sydney Opera House in 2011 in Australia.


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Photos: All in the Jackson familyPhotos: All in the Jackson family

The death in 2009 of superstar Michael Jackson, who died of cardiac arrest at the age of 50, sent shockwaves around the world. The death in 2009 of superstar Michael Jackson, who died of cardiac arrest at the age of 50, sent shockwaves around the world.

The Jackson 5 perform on a TV show circa 1969. From left, Tito Jackson, Marlon Jackson, Michael Jackson, Jackie Jackson and Jermaine Jackson.The Jackson 5 perform on a TV show circa 1969. From left, Tito Jackson, Marlon Jackson, Michael Jackson, Jackie Jackson and Jermaine Jackson.

Michael Jackson quickly became the stand out star of the Jackson 5. Here he performs onstage circa 1970. Michael Jackson quickly became the stand out star of the Jackson 5. Here he performs onstage circa 1970.

Michael Jackson poses during a portrait session in Los Angeles in 1971.Michael Jackson poses during a portrait session in Los Angeles in 1971.

Michael Jackson performs with The Jacksons in New Orleans on October 3, 1979.Michael Jackson performs with The Jacksons in New Orleans on October 3, 1979.

Jackson achieved superstardom with his solo career in the 1980s. Here Jackson is shown on stage in Kansas in 1983.Jackson achieved superstardom with his solo career in the 1980s. Here Jackson is shown on stage in Kansas in 1983.

Michael Jackson performs on stage circa 1990.Michael Jackson performs on stage circa 1990.

Jackson broke a world record during the Bad tour in 1988 when 504,000 people attending seven sold-out shows at Wembley Stadium in London.Jackson broke a world record during the Bad tour in 1988 when 504,000 people attending seven sold-out shows at Wembley Stadium in London.

Jackson perfoms in concert circa 1991 in New York City. Jackson perfoms in concert circa 1991 in New York City.

Known for his dance moves, Jackson is seen here jumping in the air while performing during the Dangerous tour in 1992.Known for his dance moves, Jackson is seen here jumping in the air while performing during the Dangerous tour in 1992.

Michael Jackson performs in Rotterdam, Netherlands.Michael Jackson performs in Rotterdam, Netherlands.

Jackson performs with his brothers.Jackson performs with his brothers.

Jackson performs during the Bad tour at Wembley Stadium in London.Jackson performs during the Bad tour at Wembley Stadium in London.

Jackson performs during the taping of American Bandstand's 50th: A Celebration in 2002.Jackson performs during the taping of “American Bandstand’s 50th: A Celebration” in 2002.

Michael Jackson earned the Legend Award during the MTV Video Music Awards in Tokyo in 2006.Michael Jackson earned the Legend Award during the MTV Video Music Awards in Tokyo in 2006.


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Photos: Michael Jackson, King of PopPhotos: Michael Jackson, King of Pop

But her most dramatic words were about how Michael Jackson’s death affected his children — Prince, Paris and Blanket Jackson, whom she now cooks for at their grandmother’s home.

“They talk about their father a lot,” Chase said. “It’s just something that they’ll never get over — the love and how much they miss their father.”

Jackson’s mother and three children are suing AEG Live, contending the concert promoter was liable in his death because it negligently hired, retained or supervised Murray, who was convicted of involuntary manslaughter.

Murray told police he used the surgical anesthetic propofol to treat Jackson’s insomnia. The coroner ruled propofol killed him.

AEG Live lawyers argue Jackson chose and supervised Murray, and their executives had no way of knowing the doctor was using the dangerous treatment.

Paris testifies

The day Paris Jackson attempted suicide, AEG Live lawyers told reporters they couldn’t promise not to use the 15-year-old’s testimony in their defense. Since Paris is one of the plaintiffs, they were able to compel the teen to sit for two days of questioning in March.

Jackson lawyers, however, told the judge Tuesday that Paris is unavailable to appear in person since she is still being treated in a hospital. AEG Live is able to use the video recording of her deposition, which they began doing Tuesday afternoon.

The first clip shown to jurors was an answer to a question by AEG Live lawyer Marvin Putnam about former Jackson nanny Grace Rwaramba, who was fired two months before Jackson’s death.

“My dad didn’t like her, so he tried to, like, keep her away from us,” Paris said. “So he sent her on errands a lot.”

Her father was reluctant to fire Rwaramba because “he felt bad because she didn’t really have a lot of money,” she testified.

“He said she was sneaky and she wasn’t an honest person and she lied a lot,” Paris said.

Paris related an incident that happened when she was “really young.” She prefaced the story by saying it was “real creepy” and “this is going to freak you out.”

The nanny would sneak into a doctor’s bedroom and “he’d wake up and she’d be in his bed,” Paris said. “So, yeah, it’s kind of creepy.”

Putnam asked her why her father didn’t just make her stay away. “He sent her to India to get some stuff,” Paris said. “She kept coming back.”

The AEG Live defense team apparently played the video to counter Chase’s testimony about Rwaramba, who is expected to be a key Jackson witness later in the trial.

“This was the mother they knew,” Chase said of Rwaramba. “She was there when they were born.”

Paris’ ‘Daddy days’

“Being Daddy’s little girl, she was devastated, devastated and lost,” said Chase, who was with Paris every day until her attempted suicide on June 4, 2013. “She’s looking, for there was so much love between her and her father. She’s lost. She’s searching. She’s sad.”

The “entire household” is worried about how Paris is dealing with the loss of her father four years ago, Chase said.

“Every girl needs their father,” she said. “I would be devastated, too, if that happened to me.”

Paris “breaks down, she cries,” Chase said. “She talks about him.”

“She’s trying to find herself, trying to find who she is and it’s taking a lot of love and understanding to keep her together,” she said.

Chase told jurors about a very happy day for Paris — her 11th birthday party in April 2009. Her father told the children they could eat whatever they wanted, which was a rare treat for them. Cheese pizza, hot wings and banana splits were on the menu, she said.

The dining room was decorated with Michael Jackson posters and album covers, while his music was played “because this is what she wanted for her 11th birthday,” Chase testified. “She was just ecstatic.”

“Just when you thought that was enough, he took his children to the backyard for a Cirque du Soleil-type performance for her,” she said. Men on stilts, a woman inside a big balloon and circus acts “brought tears to my eyes … It was the most beautiful expression of love I’ve ever seen.”

“Paris hasn’t had a birthday party since,” Chase said. “She doesn’t want one.”

Paris “remembers the Daddy days and her birthday,” she said.

Prince’s testimony

Prince Jackson, 16, also made a brief video appearance in Tuesday’s court session. AEG Live lawyers played a short clip from his deposition to counter Chase’s testimony that Jackson was so weak at one point in June that his son, then 12, had to help him walk up stairs.

“Was there ever a time that he came home from rehearsals so tired that you had to help him upstairs?” Putnam asked Prince.

“I wouldn’t be able to, but no,” Prince answered.

Chase testified about Prince’s relationship with his father and the devastation his death caused.

“Prince has always been, even at 12, the little man — daddy’s little man,” she said. “He wanted his father to be very proud of him, which Michael was.”

The teen has “the weight of the world is on his shoulders, the eldest, big brother and father figure to his siblings,” Chase testified. “It’s a lot for him, growing, liking girls. He wishes his father was here to give him advice. It’s devastating to him.”

Blanket’s ‘dance moves like his father’

Blanket, who was 7 when his father died, is now 11 and a fifth-grade graduate of his home school. “l keep thinking he’s older because he’s so smart,” Chase said.

“As the littlest, he has his older siblings to protect him, but I still think the youngest child will be the most affected,” she testified. “Being the baby, it’s a lot of remembering what daddy did, and it’s constant nonstop talking of him and his father’s relationship together.”

Like Prince and Paris, Blanket is “feeling a little lost as well,” Chase said.

He has to dress up each day, even though he is taught by a tutor at the family’s Calabasas, California, home. But he can wear what he wants on Fridays — which usually is a T-shirt from the Cirque du Soleil “Immortal” show based on his father’s music, Chase said. “He wears it constantly.”

“He does dance moves like his father,” she testified.

My ‘junior clients’

Michael Jackson hired Chase as his family’s chef without meeting her — based on the recommendation of Prince, Paris and Blanket, she testified.

She first met with her “junior clients” in the kitchen of the rented Los Angeles mansion where they were living while Jackson prepared for his comeback concerts.

The interview involved a discussion of “everything from food to video games,” she said. “They wanted to make sure I knew healthy food.”

“‘We eat healthy,” Chase said the children told her. “We don’t eat any beef or pork. Daddy likes apricots, we like fruit and Blanket likes mangoes.”

“It just felt like this was a place I needed to be,” Chase said. “It was a beautiful beginning.”

Dining with Daddy

Meals were “their time to bond,” Chase said. “This was his time with them privately.”

Chase — a graduate of the Cordon Bleu Culinary Academy in Paris — would set the table with a different theme for each lunch, featuring recipes from different countries, so the children would learn something while eating.

“One day we would have east Indian food,” she said. “We would discuss what part of India we were eating from.”

The children looked forward to “comfort food Saturdays” — which might include fried chicken — to break up the monotony of healthy eating, she said.

Michael Jackson was “very much into Mexican” and his favorite meal was vegan tacos, she said. The Jackson lawyers showed jurors a photo of the dish Tuesday.

April: ‘A good feeling of love’

Music echoing through the Carolwood Drive mansion was a mix of Disney, Rolling Stones, David Bowie and classical, Chase said. Fireplaces stayed burning despite the warm temperatures outside. “It was a good feeling,” Chase testified.

Animals roaming through the home included a chocolate lab named Kenya, cats Katie and Thriller, a rabbit and a talking bird who would “whistle when pretty girls go by,” Chase said.

Prince had a pet rat he carried around, while Paris would host tea parties in her backyard doll house for the animals. The dog would jump in the pool with the kids when they swam on Saturdays, Chase said.

The children would “run to him like lighting” when their father came home from a rehearsal,” she said. “They would hang on him. It would bring tears to my eyes.”

Jackson would play games with the children and read to them at the end of the day, she said. “His personality with his children was warm and loving.”

Jackson was “a disciplinarian when it was needed,” she said. The children had to be in bed at a certain time and school started on schedule.

Snail Farming

Jackson made sure school work was “interactive” for his children, including one science project for Paris that involved a night time hunt for snails, Chase said.

“So far we have a daddy snail, but we don’t have a mommy and a baby snail,” Paris told Chase one evening. That triggered a snail hunt around the mansion grounds, she said.

“I didn’t know how he would feel about his daughter and me out snail hunting at night,” she said, “but he was fine.”

Jackson joined them in constructing a snail farm in glass vases on the kitchen counter.

‘Box of Happiness’

After working for Jackson in March and April, Chase was suddenly dismissed in May because of what Jackson’s assistant told her was “a change of management.” She was not allowed to say good bye to the children, she said.

The assistant called her back a month later and asked her to return to the job, which she did. But this time, her paychecks would be cut by AEG Live, she was told.

Paris greeted her return with a gift. It was a shoe box filled with stuffed animals and coloring books she called a “Box of Happiness.”

Paris learned “giving” from her father, she said.

“She’d go get clothing maybe she wasn’t wearing anymore and she would cut them to make them into little skirts and hand sew them,” Chase said.

“I’m making these little skirts that I’m going to put in a box and ship overseas to others that aren’t as privileged,” she said Paris told her.

Empty pantry, declined credit

The happy home she left in April was changed when she returned in June, Chase said. It was three weeks before Jackson died there.

“The kitchen pantry was bare, and the only things in the refrigerator were Coca-Colas, Red Bull and Starbuck’s coffee drinks, which I know Mr. Jackson was not drinking,” the chef said.

When Chase went to the grocery store to stock up the Jackson credit card was declined, she said.

Jackson himself “looked very different,” she said. “He appeared very weak. He looked thinner, undernourished.”

The “obvious difference” in Jackson from April to June “concerned me greatly,” Chase said.

“He came to me and pulled me to the side and said ‘Where have you gone? I had no idea you left. I need you to keep me healthy. I’m working hard. They’re killing me,’” she testified.

“He told me ‘I need you to keep me healthy. I don’t know why you left. I need you to keep me and my children healthy.’ I looked at him with great concern,” she said. “When he said that … I thought he was being overworked. He was over rehearsed.”

Jackson was excited that she would again be feeding him, she said.

“I knew I had to get this man as healthy as a possible, but I did not know why he was deteriorating,” she said.

Another change she witnessed in June was the presence of Dr. Conrad Murray. He paid some visits in April, but he was there almost every day in June, she said. The doctor would bring empty oxygen tanks from Jackson’s upstairs bedroom each morning.

“I was concerned,” Chase testified. “I had no idea what they were used for. I didn’t ask, but it was strange.”

The world would later learn that Murray was using oxygen when he administered propofol each night to put Jackson to sleep.

‘A loud crash’

The Jackson lawsuit alleges that AEG Live executives, including CEO Randy Phillips and Co-CEO Paul Gongaware, pressured Murray to have Jackson at more rehearsals. They cite a meeting they believe was held at Jackson’s home around the second week of June as evidence.

Jackson, wearing a surgical mask and covered by several layers of clothing, appeared “scared and frightened” as he walked down his stairs to join Phillips, Gongaware, Dr. Murray and his manager Frank Dileo for the meeting in his parlor, Chase said.

“I immediately heard a loud crash,” she testified. A “very, very expensive vase” sitting next to Jackson’s chair was smashed.

Jackson “seemed very firm with them,” she said. The judge would not let her tell jurors what she heard him saying to the AEG Live executives. But there were “loud voices” and everyone was talking over each other,” she said.

Jackson left the meeting, followed by Dr. Murray, who seemed “very upset,” she said.

“I can’t take this s–t,” Murray said, according to Chase.

When she saw Jackson later, he seemed to have “the weight of the world on his shoulders,” she said. He was “concerned, frightened and scared; a lot of those emotions.”

The day he died

Chase has publicly recounted several times the events at the house the day Michael Jackson died, including in interviews and testimony in Murray’s criminal trial. She described it again Tuesday for jurors in the civil trial.

Dr. Murray “was panicked” as he screamed for Chase to call Prince and the security guard to go upstairs to help him.

“Hurry Dr. Murray needs you,” she said she told Prince, who was playing in the den. “There may be something wrong with your father.”

She returned to her lunch preparations, failing to alert the security guard in the shack near the kitchen door. Murray never asked her to call 911 for an ambulance.

Chase realized there was a grave problem when the housekeepers began crying “Mr. Jackson may be dead,” she said. “You could feel the energy in the house was changing.”

Prince screamed “Daddy” and Paris screamed a “blood curdling, out of her mind Daddy!”

“I grabbed them and held their hands and said ‘Let’s pray. Father God, please let nothing be wrong with this man.’”

Paramedics were soon running up the the stairs. Head of security Alberto Alvarez asked Chase to leave the house. “He’ll be fine,” Alvarez told her.

Chase did not see the Jackson children until she was allowed to visit with them weeks later. Katherine Jackson hired her as her family chef last July at the request of Prince, Paris and Blanket.


Article source: http://edition.cnn.com/2013/06/19/showbiz/jackson-death-trial/index.html?eref=edition

Article source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NewsRipplesWeb/~3/Z4_PtFNHdLc/paris-jackson-lost-after-dads-death

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EA Sports Ignite engine won’t work on current PCs

EA Sports Ignite engine won't work on current PCs

FIFA 14 will not be coming to the PC due to the platform’s inability to run the Ignite engine.


The new Ignite engine that props up all of EA Sports’ next generation titles will not run on the PC or the Wii U.

The lack of PC support was explained away by EA Sports executive vice-president Andrew Wilson saying that most players don’t have computers that could run it.

According to Wilson, the release of FIFA 11 back in 2010 resulted in many players being unable to play the game because they did not have an adequately powerful computer at the time and the company feels this would be repeated if Ignite-powered titles were released on the PC today.

‘Even though there were some PCs on the marketplace that could run that engine, the lion’s share of PCs on the marketplace could not,’ Wilson told Polygon. ‘And the majority of the gamer base that was playing the game on PC did not have a PC spec that would work with that.’

Wilson further explains that the Ignite engine has been built for the closed Xbox One and PS4 hardware and not the open hardware of an average PC. He concedes that with a few adjustments, the Ignite engine might make the jump to PC in the future.

The current reported specifications of the PS4 and Xbox One suggest that each console is the equivalent of a moderately powerful PC as opposed to anything that will challenge a high-end gaming rig. Both consoles are listed as having 8GB of RAM and GPUs derived from the AMD Radeon 7000 series.

The decision not to make adjustments in order for the engine to run on a PC will be baffling to many considering that the game will have originally been programmed and initially tested on a PC.

The lack of Wii U support for the Ignite engine is less surprising with EA’s previous declarations that they have nothing currently development for Nintendo’s latest offering. EA developer DICE has also abandoned its efforts to get the Frostbite 3 engine, the engine powering a wide range of EAs titles, running on the Wii U after tests with its predecessor proved disappointing.

Article source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/bit-tech/news/~3/yQUA6B2ha4M/1

Article source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/GamingRipplesWeb/~3/MWIRw9gIzaA/

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Flying bicycle with built-in tent cruises at 4,000 feet up

Paravelo flying bike

The Paravelo looks ready for launch.


(Credit:
XploreAir)

First, flying food became a trend. Now, the hot new flying creations are flying bicycles. The latest entry in the wheeled-air-machine category comes from British company XploreAir. It’s a bicycle, flying machine, and camping tent all built into one device.

The Paravelo can be taken apart and used as just a bike, or it can docked to its trailer with a flexible wing and biofuel-powered fan. Up in the air, it can go at speeds up to 25 mph for up to 3 hours and reach heights up to 4,000 feet up.

The bike itself is fairly lightweight, though the trailer with the fan adds quite a bit of size to the whole contraption. It all folds down for storage. XploreAir says the purchase and operating costs of the Paravelo will be similar to having a small family
car.

XploreAir is currently raising funds on Kickstarter to further develop the project. The biggest problem here is that you can’t actually get one of these flying bikes for a pledge.

The best you can hope for is to plop down $7,800 and get a non-flying replica of the bike, along with the option to buy one of the first five Paravelos to come off the production line. For that price, I would hope for at least a hop, skip, and a jump. The Paravelo won’t come cheap, but that’s not surprising.

If the Paravelo gets off the ground, it could open an interesting new chapter in personal exploration. It’s more adventurous than just hopping in your car. What is it with our desire to take earth-bound things and make them fly through the air, preferably with people on board? I guess we’re still envious of birds.

(Via TechEBlog)

Article source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/cnet/pRza/~3/SXTP7D4dwSU/

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Summer solstice: All about sex


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In many parts of the world there is no better time to work on your mojo than on the longest day of the year. In Belarus girls and boys take the opportunity to celebrate the midnight sun on Ivan Kupala Day by bathing in lakes. In many parts of the world there is no better time to work on your mojo than on the longest day of the year. In Belarus girls and boys take the opportunity to celebrate the midnight sun on Ivan Kupala Day by bathing in lakes.

During the Swedish national holiday of Midsommar the usually cool, calm and collected Swedes turn to their raucous Viking roots and consume a copious amount of vodka and dance around -- according to some -- a rather phallic-looking Maypole. Perhaps unsurprisingly research shows a lot of babies are born nine months after the festivities. During the Swedish national holiday of Midsommar the usually cool, calm and collected Swedes turn to their raucous Viking roots and consume a copious amount of vodka and dance around — according to some — a rather phallic-looking Maypole. Perhaps unsurprisingly research shows a lot of babies are born nine months after the festivities.

During the Greek solstice celebration Klidonas, bachelors across the country try to impress single ladies by building tall fires and jumping over them. According to custom, anyone who jumps the flames three times is rewarded with a good year ahead but more importantly a likely date for the evening. During the Greek solstice celebration Klidonas, bachelors across the country try to impress single ladies by building tall fires and jumping over them. According to custom, anyone who jumps the flames three times is rewarded with a good year ahead but more importantly a likely date for the evening.

In Eastern Europe the solstice celebrations fall on Ivan Kupala Day, a holiday that has romantic connotations for many Slavs, kupala is derived from the same word as cupid. In Ukraine it is common for girls to put wreathes on a river to attract eligible bachelors. In Eastern Europe the solstice celebrations fall on Ivan Kupala Day, a holiday that has romantic connotations for many Slavs, “kupala” is derived from the same word as “cupid”. In Ukraine it is common for girls to put wreathes on a river to attract eligible bachelors.

In neighboring Belarus girls place candle offerings into rivers as they celebrate Ivan Kupala Day. The pagan tradition has been accepted into the Orthodox Christian calendar.In neighboring Belarus girls place candle offerings into rivers as they celebrate Ivan Kupala Day. The pagan tradition has been accepted into the Orthodox Christian calendar.

One of the largest solstice celebrations in the world takes place at the 5000 year-old Stonehenge, where thousands gather each year to bring in the summer season.One of the largest solstice celebrations in the world takes place at the 5000 year-old Stonehenge, where thousands gather each year to bring in the summer season.

Pagans and neo-druids treat the solstice like the ultimate marriage ceremony. Many couples go to Stonehenge on the Salisbury Plain to confirm their love on the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere.Pagans and neo-druids treat the solstice like the ultimate marriage ceremony. Many couples go to Stonehenge on the Salisbury Plain to confirm their love on the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere.


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How do you welcome summer? Share your experience with us.

(CNN) — In the Northern Hemisphere, the summer solstice has a history of stirring libidos, and it’s no wonder. The longest day of the year tends to kick off the start of the summer season and with it, the harvest. So it should come as no surprise that the solstice is linked to fertility — both of the vegetal and human variety.

“A lot of children are born nine months after Midsummer in Sweden,” says Jan-Öjvind Swahn, a Swedish ethnologist and the author of several books on the subject.

Midsummer is the Scandinavian holiday celebrating the summer solstice, which this year falls on June 21. Swedish traditions include dancing around a Maypole — a symbol which some view as phallic — and feasting on herring and copious amounts of vodka.

“Drinking is the most typical Midsummer tradition. There are historical pictures of people drinking to the point where they can’t go on anymore,” says Swahn. While the libations have a hand in the subsequent baby boom, Swahn points out that even without the booze, Midsummer is a time rich in romantic ritual.

Read more: The science behind a solar eclipse

“There used to be a tradition among unmarried girls, where if they ate something very salty during Midsummer, or else collected several different kinds of flowers and put these under their pillow when they slept, they would dream of their future husbands,” he says.

There is a similar mythology about dreaming of one’s future spouse in parts of Greece. There, as in many European countries, the pagan solstice got co-opted by Christianity and rebranded as St. John’s Day. Still, in many villages in the country’s north, the ancient rites are still celebrated.

One of the oldest rituals is called Klidonas, and involves local virgins gathering water from the sea. The village’s unmarried women all place a personal belonging in the pot and leave it under a fig tree overnight, where — folklore has it — the magic of the day imbues the objects with prophetic powers, and the girls in question dream of their future husbands.

The next day, all the women in the village gather, and take turns pulling out objects and reciting rhyming couplets that are meant to predict the romantic fortunes of the item’s owner. These days, however, the festival is more an excuse for the community of women to exchange bawdy jokes.

“In my village, the older women always seem to come up with the dirtiest rhymes,” says Eleni Fanariotou, who has filmed the custom. Later in the day, the sexes mingle and take turns jumping over a bonfire. Anyone who succeeds in jumping over the flames three times is meant to have a wish granted. Fanariotou says the festival often results in coupling.

Read more: 5 real-life wonderlands

“It’s a good time to meet someone, because all the young people in the village go, and it’s a good opportunity to socialize. Plus, all the men like to show off, and make the biggest fire they can to jump through.”

In Eastern Europe, the solstice celebrations fall on Ivan Kupala Day — a holiday that has romantic connotations for many Slavs (“kupala” is derived from the same word as “cupid”).

“It was once believed that Kupala night was a time for people to fall in love, and that those celebrating it would be happy and prosperous throughout the year,” recalls Agnieszka Bigaj, from the Polish tourist board. It used to be that young, unmarried women would float floral wreaths in the river where eager bachelors on the other side would try to catching the flowers. she adds.

According to Polish folklore, the man and woman in question would become a couple. Bonfires are also a large feature of the holiday, and it’s tradition for a couple to leap through the flames together while holding hands — if they don’t let go, it is said their love will last.

Test your knowledge of New Year customs

One of the largest solstice celebrations in the world, though, takes place at Stonehenge, where thousands gather each year to bring in the summer season. While for many the event is an excuse to party in the lead up to the Glastonbury Festival, there is also a strong contingent of pagans and neo-druids who treat the day like the ultimate marriage ceremony.

“All druid rituals have an element of fertility, and the solstice is no exception,” says King Arthur Pendragon, a senior archdruid. “We celebrate the union of the male and female deities — the sun and the Earth — on the longest day of the year.”

Article source: http://edition.cnn.com/2013/06/13/world/summer-solstice-world-celebrations-sex/index.html?eref=edition

Article source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NewsRipplesWeb/~3/0bVHsDFF9CQ/summer-solstice-all-about-sex

Categories: Uncategorized Tags:

Summer solstice: All about sex


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In many parts of the world there is no better time to work on your mojo than on the longest day of the year. In Belarus girls and boys take the opportunity to celebrate the midnight sun on Ivan Kupala Day by bathing in lakes. In many parts of the world there is no better time to work on your mojo than on the longest day of the year. In Belarus girls and boys take the opportunity to celebrate the midnight sun on Ivan Kupala Day by bathing in lakes.

During the Swedish national holiday of Midsommar the usually cool, calm and collected Swedes turn to their raucous Viking roots and consume a copious amount of vodka and dance around -- according to some -- a rather phallic-looking Maypole. Perhaps unsurprisingly research shows a lot of babies are born nine months after the festivities. During the Swedish national holiday of Midsommar the usually cool, calm and collected Swedes turn to their raucous Viking roots and consume a copious amount of vodka and dance around — according to some — a rather phallic-looking Maypole. Perhaps unsurprisingly research shows a lot of babies are born nine months after the festivities.

During the Greek solstice celebration Klidonas, bachelors across the country try to impress single ladies by building tall fires and jumping over them. According to custom, anyone who jumps the flames three times is rewarded with a good year ahead but more importantly a likely date for the evening. During the Greek solstice celebration Klidonas, bachelors across the country try to impress single ladies by building tall fires and jumping over them. According to custom, anyone who jumps the flames three times is rewarded with a good year ahead but more importantly a likely date for the evening.

In Eastern Europe the solstice celebrations fall on Ivan Kupala Day, a holiday that has romantic connotations for many Slavs, kupala is derived from the same word as cupid. In Ukraine it is common for girls to put wreathes on a river to attract eligible bachelors. In Eastern Europe the solstice celebrations fall on Ivan Kupala Day, a holiday that has romantic connotations for many Slavs, “kupala” is derived from the same word as “cupid”. In Ukraine it is common for girls to put wreathes on a river to attract eligible bachelors.

In neighboring Belarus girls place candle offerings into rivers as they celebrate Ivan Kupala Day. The pagan tradition has been accepted into the Orthodox Christian calendar.In neighboring Belarus girls place candle offerings into rivers as they celebrate Ivan Kupala Day. The pagan tradition has been accepted into the Orthodox Christian calendar.

One of the largest solstice celebrations in the world takes place at the 5000 year-old Stonehenge, where thousands gather each year to bring in the summer season.One of the largest solstice celebrations in the world takes place at the 5000 year-old Stonehenge, where thousands gather each year to bring in the summer season.

Pagans and neo-druids treat the solstice like the ultimate marriage ceremony. Many couples go to Stonehenge on the Salisbury Plain to confirm their love on the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere.Pagans and neo-druids treat the solstice like the ultimate marriage ceremony. Many couples go to Stonehenge on the Salisbury Plain to confirm their love on the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere.


1


2


3


4


5


6


7

How do you welcome summer? Share your experience with us.

(CNN) — In the Northern Hemisphere, the summer solstice has a history of stirring libidos, and it’s no wonder. The longest day of the year tends to kick off the start of the summer season and with it, the harvest. So it should come as no surprise that the solstice is linked to fertility — both of the vegetal and human variety.

“A lot of children are born nine months after Midsummer in Sweden,” says Jan-Öjvind Swahn, a Swedish ethnologist and the author of several books on the subject.

Midsummer is the Scandinavian holiday celebrating the summer solstice, which this year falls on June 21. Swedish traditions include dancing around a Maypole — a symbol which some view as phallic — and feasting on herring and copious amounts of vodka.

“Drinking is the most typical Midsummer tradition. There are historical pictures of people drinking to the point where they can’t go on anymore,” says Swahn. While the libations have a hand in the subsequent baby boom, Swahn points out that even without the booze, Midsummer is a time rich in romantic ritual.

Read more: The science behind a solar eclipse

“There used to be a tradition among unmarried girls, where if they ate something very salty during Midsummer, or else collected several different kinds of flowers and put these under their pillow when they slept, they would dream of their future husbands,” he says.

There is a similar mythology about dreaming of one’s future spouse in parts of Greece. There, as in many European countries, the pagan solstice got co-opted by Christianity and rebranded as St. John’s Day. Still, in many villages in the country’s north, the ancient rites are still celebrated.

One of the oldest rituals is called Klidonas, and involves local virgins gathering water from the sea. The village’s unmarried women all place a personal belonging in the pot and leave it under a fig tree overnight, where — folklore has it — the magic of the day imbues the objects with prophetic powers, and the girls in question dream of their future husbands.

The next day, all the women in the village gather, and take turns pulling out objects and reciting rhyming couplets that are meant to predict the romantic fortunes of the item’s owner. These days, however, the festival is more an excuse for the community of women to exchange bawdy jokes.

“In my village, the older women always seem to come up with the dirtiest rhymes,” says Eleni Fanariotou, who has filmed the custom. Later in the day, the sexes mingle and take turns jumping over a bonfire. Anyone who succeeds in jumping over the flames three times is meant to have a wish granted. Fanariotou says the festival often results in coupling.

Read more: 5 real-life wonderlands

“It’s a good time to meet someone, because all the young people in the village go, and it’s a good opportunity to socialize. Plus, all the men like to show off, and make the biggest fire they can to jump through.”

In Eastern Europe, the solstice celebrations fall on Ivan Kupala Day — a holiday that has romantic connotations for many Slavs (“kupala” is derived from the same word as “cupid”).

“It was once believed that Kupala night was a time for people to fall in love, and that those celebrating it would be happy and prosperous throughout the year,” recalls Agnieszka Bigaj, from the Polish tourist board. It used to be that young, unmarried women would float floral wreaths in the river where eager bachelors on the other side would try to catching the flowers. she adds.

According to Polish folklore, the man and woman in question would become a couple. Bonfires are also a large feature of the holiday, and it’s tradition for a couple to leap through the flames together while holding hands — if they don’t let go, it is said their love will last.

Test your knowledge of New Year customs

One of the largest solstice celebrations in the world, though, takes place at Stonehenge, where thousands gather each year to bring in the summer season. While for many the event is an excuse to party in the lead up to the Glastonbury Festival, there is also a strong contingent of pagans and neo-druids who treat the day like the ultimate marriage ceremony.

“All druid rituals have an element of fertility, and the solstice is no exception,” says King Arthur Pendragon, a senior archdruid. “We celebrate the union of the male and female deities — the sun and the Earth — on the longest day of the year.”

Article source: http://edition.cnn.com/2013/06/13/world/summer-solstice-world-celebrations-sex/index.html?eref=edition

Article source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NewsRipplesWeb/~3/0bVHsDFF9CQ/summer-solstice-all-about-sex

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Spurs one win from NBA triumph


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Kawhi Leonard of the San Antonio Spurs vies for the ball with Mike Miller of the Miami Heat on Sunday, June 16. The Spurs won Game 5 and lead the series 3-2.Kawhi Leonard of the San Antonio Spurs vies for the ball with Mike Miller of the Miami Heat on Sunday, June 16. The Spurs won Game 5 and lead the series 3-2.

LeBron James of the Miami Heat shoots over Boris Diaw of the San Antonio Spurs. The Spurs won 114-104.LeBron James of the Miami Heat shoots over Boris Diaw of the San Antonio Spurs. The Spurs won 114-104.

Dwayne Wade of the Miami Heat goes for a layup as Danny Green of the San Antonio Spurs stands helpless.Dwayne Wade of the Miami Heat goes for a layup as Danny Green of the San Antonio Spurs stands helpless.

The Heat's LeBron James gets a breather in the fourth quarter while taking on the San Antonio SpursThe Heat’s LeBron James gets a breather in the fourth quarter while taking on the San Antonio Spurs

Ray Allen of the Miami Heat goes up for a shot against Manu Ginobili of the San Antonio Spurs.Ray Allen of the Miami Heat goes up for a shot against Manu Ginobili of the San Antonio Spurs.

Dwyane Wade goes up for a dunk over Tim Duncan of the San Antonio Spurs.Dwyane Wade goes up for a dunk over Tim Duncan of the San Antonio Spurs.

LeBron James of the Miami Heat shoots under pressure from Danny Green of the San Antonio Spurs during Game 5.LeBron James of the Miami Heat shoots under pressure from Danny Green of the San Antonio Spurs during Game 5.

Tiago Splitter of the San Antonio Spurs runs into tight defense from Dwyane Wade, Chris Bosh and Shane Battier of of the Miami Heat.Tiago Splitter of the San Antonio Spurs runs into tight defense from Dwyane Wade, Chris Bosh and Shane Battier of of the Miami Heat.

Danny Green of the San Antonio Spurs goes up for a shot against Udonis Haslem of the Miami Heat.Danny Green of the San Antonio Spurs goes up for a shot against Udonis Haslem of the Miami Heat.

Tim Duncan of the San Antonio Spurs sits on the scorer's table.Tim Duncan of the San Antonio Spurs sits on the scorer’s table.

Chris Bosh of the Miami Heat and Tiago Splitter of the San Antonio Spurs wrestle for the ball. Chris Bosh of the Miami Heat and Tiago Splitter of the San Antonio Spurs wrestle for the ball.

Tiago Splitter of the San Antonio Spurs shoots over Ray Allen of the Miami Heat.Tiago Splitter of the San Antonio Spurs shoots over Ray Allen of the Miami Heat.

Kawhi Leonard of the San Antonio Spurs shoots over Shane Battier of the Miami Heat in the first half.Kawhi Leonard of the San Antonio Spurs shoots over Shane Battier of the Miami Heat in the first half.

Kawhi Leonard of the San Antonio Spurs and Chris Bosh of the Miami Heat grapple over a loose ball.Kawhi Leonard of the San Antonio Spurs and Chris Bosh of the Miami Heat grapple over a loose ball.

 Kawhi Leonard of the San Antonio Spurs dunks. Kawhi Leonard of the San Antonio Spurs dunks.

Tony Parker of the San Antonio Spurs goes up for a shot as Ray Allen of the Miami Heat looks on.Tony Parker of the San Antonio Spurs goes up for a shot as Ray Allen of the Miami Heat looks on.

Udonis Haslem of the Miami Heat boxes out Danny Green in the first half.Udonis Haslem of the Miami Heat boxes out Danny Green in the first half.

 LeBron James of the Miami Heat dunks in front of Tony Parker of the San Antonio Spurs in the second quarter. LeBron James of the Miami Heat dunks in front of Tony Parker of the San Antonio Spurs in the second quarter.

Danny Green of the San Antonio Spurs goes up for a shot against Ray Allen of the Miami Heat in the second quarter.Danny Green of the San Antonio Spurs goes up for a shot against Ray Allen of the Miami Heat in the second quarter.

Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich argues a call with referee Tony Brothers.Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich argues a call with referee Tony Brothers.

The Heat's Ray Allen lays against the basket in the second quarter.The Heat’s Ray Allen lays against the basket in the second quarter.


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(CNN) — The San Antonio Spurs are one win away from winning the 2013 NBA championship after a 114-104 victory over the Miami Heat in Game Five of the Finals.

Spurs star guard Tony Parker showed no signs of the hamstring injury which hampered him during Game Four, scoring 26 points to delight the AT T Center crowd.

“It was a physical game. Great game. I was just trying to pace myself better, if I can say that, during the game,” the Frenchman told reporters.

“Or else I’d be out of gas like I did in Game Four, where in the second half I didn’t have enough juice and my hamstring was kind of fatigued. In this game I was trying to take my time and it helped.”

Miami Heat players LeBron James and Dwayne Wade hug after the Heat defeated the San Antonio Spurs 109-93 in Game 4 of the NBA Finals on Thursday, June 13. The series is tied at 2-2. See photos from Game 3.Miami Heat players LeBron James and Dwayne Wade hug after the Heat defeated the San Antonio Spurs 109-93 in Game 4 of the NBA Finals on Thursday, June 13. The series is tied at 2-2. See photos from Game 3.

LeBron James of the Miami Heat tries to pass around Manu Ginobili during the fourth quarter.LeBron James of the Miami Heat tries to pass around Manu Ginobili during the fourth quarter.

Dwayne Wade of the Miami Heat drives past Manu Ginobili in the fourth quarter.Dwayne Wade of the Miami Heat drives past Manu Ginobili in the fourth quarter.

Tony Parker of the San Antonio Spurs drives on Miami's Norris Cole in the second half of the game.Tony Parker of the San Antonio Spurs drives on Miami’s Norris Cole in the second half of the game.

Tim Duncan of the San Antonio Spurs shoots over Chris Bosh in the third quarter.Tim Duncan of the San Antonio Spurs shoots over Chris Bosh in the third quarter.

Chris Bosh of the Miami Heat battles for the ball against Tim Duncan of the Spurs in the first half.Chris Bosh of the Miami Heat battles for the ball against Tim Duncan of the Spurs in the first half.

Tim Duncan of the San Antonio Spurs reacts in the third quarter.Tim Duncan of the San Antonio Spurs reacts in the third quarter.

LeBron James of the Miami Heat goes up for a shot against Tim Duncan during the first half.LeBron James of the Miami Heat goes up for a shot against Tim Duncan during the first half.

LeBron James of the Miami Heat takes a shot over Kawhi Leonard of the San Antonio Spurs.LeBron James of the Miami Heat takes a shot over Kawhi Leonard of the San Antonio Spurs.

The Spurs' Tony Parker lays the ball up against Udonis Haslem of the Heat.The Spurs’ Tony Parker lays the ball up against Udonis Haslem of the Heat.

LeBron James boxes out Kawhi Leonard.LeBron James boxes out Kawhi Leonard.

LeBron James of the Heat defends the ball against Kawhi Leonard.LeBron James of the Heat defends the ball against Kawhi Leonard.

The Heat's Chris Bosh goes up for a shot against Tim Duncan, left, and Manu Ginobili.The Heat’s Chris Bosh goes up for a shot against Tim Duncan, left, and Manu Ginobili.

Tim Duncan of the Spurs puts pressure on LeBron James as he vies for position.Tim Duncan of the Spurs puts pressure on LeBron James as he vies for position.

Head coach Gregg Popovich of the San Antonio Spurs reacts during the first quarter.Head coach Gregg Popovich of the San Antonio Spurs reacts during the first quarter.

Tiago Splitter of the San Antonio Spurs loses his footing as Dwayne Wade goes for the ball.Tiago Splitter of the San Antonio Spurs loses his footing as Dwayne Wade goes for the ball.


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Photos: Game 4 of the NBA FinalsPhotos: Game 4 of the NBA Finals

Danny Green of the San Antonio Spurs celebrates with teammate Gary Neal as they take on the Miami Heat during Game 3 of the 2013 NBA Finals on Tuesday, June 11, in San Antonio. The Spurs defeated the Heat 113-77 and lead the series 2-1. See photos from Game 2.Danny Green of the San Antonio Spurs celebrates with teammate Gary Neal as they take on the Miami Heat during Game 3 of the 2013 NBA Finals on Tuesday, June 11, in San Antonio. The Spurs defeated the Heat 113-77 and lead the series 2-1. See photos from Game 2.

From left, Miami Heat's Mike Miller, Chris Bosh, Dwyane Wade and LeBron James talk during a break in the game.From left, Miami Heat’s Mike Miller, Chris Bosh, Dwyane Wade and LeBron James talk during a break in the game.

Miami's Chris Andersen goes for a rebound against the San Antonio Spurs' Tim Duncan, right, and Danny Green, left.Miami’s Chris Andersen goes for a rebound against the San Antonio Spurs’ Tim Duncan, right, and Danny Green, left.

San Antonio's Tim Duncan and Miami's LeBron James battle for position.San Antonio’s Tim Duncan and Miami’s LeBron James battle for position.

Gary Neal of the San Antonio Spurs makes a three-pointer over Mike Miller of the Miami Heat during the second quarter.Gary Neal of the San Antonio Spurs makes a three-pointer over Mike Miller of the Miami Heat during the second quarter.

Danny Green of the San Antonio Spurs reacts after making a three-pointer. Green has hit 12 straight threes going back to Game 2 and finished with 27 on the night.Danny Green of the San Antonio Spurs reacts after making a three-pointer. Green has hit 12 straight threes going back to Game 2 and finished with 27 on the night.

Cory Joseph of the San Antonio Spurs and Norris Cole of the Miami Heat go after a loose ball in the second half.Cory Joseph of the San Antonio Spurs and Norris Cole of the Miami Heat go after a loose ball in the second half.

The San Antonio Spurs and the Miami Heat face off in Game 3 of the 2013 NBA Finals on Tuesday, June 11, in San Antonio. The San Antonio Spurs and the Miami Heat face off in Game 3 of the 2013 NBA Finals on Tuesday, June 11, in San Antonio.

Mario Chalmers of the Miami Heat goes up for a shot against Tim Duncan of the San Antonio Spurs in the first half.Mario Chalmers of the Miami Heat goes up for a shot against Tim Duncan of the San Antonio Spurs in the first half.

Tony Parker of the San Antonio Spurs dribbles under pressure from Chris Bosh of the Miami Heat.Tony Parker of the San Antonio Spurs dribbles under pressure from Chris Bosh of the Miami Heat.

Manu Ginobili, right, congratulates Kawhi Leonard of the San Antonio Spurs after scoring during the first half.Manu Ginobili, right, congratulates Kawhi Leonard of the San Antonio Spurs after scoring during the first half.

Chris Bosh, left, and LeBron James, center, of the Miami Heat box out Tiago Splitter of the San Antonio Spurs.Chris Bosh, left, and LeBron James, center, of the Miami Heat box out Tiago Splitter of the San Antonio Spurs.

Tony Parker of the San Antonio Spurs drives on Chris Bosh of the Miami Heat in the first quarter.Tony Parker of the San Antonio Spurs drives on Chris Bosh of the Miami Heat in the first quarter.

LeBron James of the Miami Heat reacts after a call in the first quarter against the San Antonio Spurs.LeBron James of the Miami Heat reacts after a call in the first quarter against the San Antonio Spurs.

Tim Duncan of the San Antonio Spurs dunks the ball over Udonis Haslem of the Miami Heat.Tim Duncan of the San Antonio Spurs dunks the ball over Udonis Haslem of the Miami Heat.

LeBron James of the Miami Heat looks to pass as he is guarded by Tim Duncan of the San Antonio Spurs.LeBron James of the Miami Heat looks to pass as he is guarded by Tim Duncan of the San Antonio Spurs.

Tim Duncan of the San Antonio Spurs shoots over Udonis Haslem, center, and Chris Bosh, left, of the Miami Heat.Tim Duncan of the San Antonio Spurs shoots over Udonis Haslem, center, and Chris Bosh, left, of the Miami Heat.


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Photos: Game 3 of the NBA FinalsPhotos: Game 3 of the NBA Finals

Mike Miller of the Miami Heat reacts after making a three-pointer in the fourth quarter against the San Antonio Spurs during Game 2 of the 2013 NBA Finals on Sunday, June 9, in Miami. The Heat defeated the Spurs 103-84 to tie the series 1-1. See photos from Game 1.Mike Miller of the Miami Heat reacts after making a three-pointer in the fourth quarter against the San Antonio Spurs during Game 2 of the 2013 NBA Finals on Sunday, June 9, in Miami. The Heat defeated the Spurs 103-84 to tie the series 1-1. See photos from Game 1.

Tim Duncan of the San Antonio Spurs bows his head while taking on the Miami Heat during Game 2.Tim Duncan of the San Antonio Spurs bows his head while taking on the Miami Heat during Game 2.

Dwyane Wade of the Miami Heat tries to drive around Danny Green of the San Antonio Spurs in the third quarter.Dwyane Wade of the Miami Heat tries to drive around Danny Green of the San Antonio Spurs in the third quarter.

LeBron James of the Miami Heat blocks the shot of Tiago Splitter of the San Antonio Spurs in the fourth quarter.LeBron James of the Miami Heat blocks the shot of Tiago Splitter of the San Antonio Spurs in the fourth quarter.

Tony Parker of the San Antonio Spurs uses a screen from Tim Duncan to get around LeBron James of the Miami Heat in the third quarter.Tony Parker of the San Antonio Spurs uses a screen from Tim Duncan to get around LeBron James of the Miami Heat in the third quarter.

LeBron James of the Miami Heat goes up for a shot against Danny Green of the San Antonio Spurs.LeBron James of the Miami Heat goes up for a shot against Danny Green of the San Antonio Spurs.

LeBron James of the Miami Heat shoots over Kawhi Leonard of the San Antonio Spurs during Game 2.LeBron James of the Miami Heat shoots over Kawhi Leonard of the San Antonio Spurs during Game 2.

Dwyane Wade of the Miami Heat and Manu Ginobili of the San Antonio Spurs go after a loose ball.Dwyane Wade of the Miami Heat and Manu Ginobili of the San Antonio Spurs go after a loose ball.

Tim Duncan of the San Antonio Spurs goes to the basket against Udonis Haslem of the Miami Heat during Game 2.Tim Duncan of the San Antonio Spurs goes to the basket against Udonis Haslem of the Miami Heat during Game 2.

Danny Green of the San Antonio Spurs makes a three-pointer over Chris Bosh of the Miami Heat in the first quarter.Danny Green of the San Antonio Spurs makes a three-pointer over Chris Bosh of the Miami Heat in the first quarter.

LeBron James of the Miami Heat drives against Kawhi Leonard of the San Antonio Spurs.LeBron James of the Miami Heat drives against Kawhi Leonard of the San Antonio Spurs.

Manu Ginobili of the San Antonio Spurs goes up for a shot between Chris Bosh, left, and Dwyane Wade of the Miami Heat.Manu Ginobili of the San Antonio Spurs goes up for a shot between Chris Bosh, left, and Dwyane Wade of the Miami Heat.

Tiago Splitter of the San Antonio Spurs drives to the basket against Udonis Haslem of the Miami Heat.Tiago Splitter of the San Antonio Spurs drives to the basket against Udonis Haslem of the Miami Heat.

It's a packed-in crowd at Game 2 of the 2013 NBA finals at American Airlines Arena in Miami. It’s a packed-in crowd at Game 2 of the 2013 NBA finals at American Airlines Arena in Miami.

Tim Duncan of the San Antonio Spurs and Chris Bosh of the Miami Heat go for the jump ball at the start of Game 2.Tim Duncan of the San Antonio Spurs and Chris Bosh of the Miami Heat go for the jump ball at the start of Game 2.

Dwyane Wade of the Miami Heat reacts in the first quarter while taking on the San Antonio Spurs.Dwyane Wade of the Miami Heat reacts in the first quarter while taking on the San Antonio Spurs.

Chris Andersen of the Miami Heat dunks the ball in the first quarter against the San Antonio Spurs.Chris Andersen of the Miami Heat dunks the ball in the first quarter against the San Antonio Spurs.

Danny Green of the San Antonio Spurs reacts after making a three-pointer in the first quarter against the Miami Heat.Danny Green of the San Antonio Spurs reacts after making a three-pointer in the first quarter against the Miami Heat.

Tim Duncan of the San Antonio Spurs goes up for a shot over Udonis Haslem of the Miami Heat.Tim Duncan of the San Antonio Spurs goes up for a shot over Udonis Haslem of the Miami Heat.

Chris Bosh of the Miami Heat blocks the shot of Tiago Splitter of the San Antonio Spurs in the first quarter.Chris Bosh of the Miami Heat blocks the shot of Tiago Splitter of the San Antonio Spurs in the first quarter.


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Photos: Game 2 of the NBA FinalsPhotos: Game 2 of the NBA Finals

Read: LeBron and Kobe among top-paid athletes

Argentine Manu Ginobili turned in his finest performance of the series so far, adding 24 points and 10 assists.

The Spurs opened up a 20-point lead in the third quarter, with the crowd showing their appreciation with chants of “Ma-nu” as Gregg Popovich’s team closed on a first NBA title since 2007.

“I was having a tough time scoring, and I needed to feel like the game was coming to me, and I was being able to attack the rim, get to the free-throw line, and make a couple of shots,” said Ginobli.

“So it felt great when I heard that. To feel that I really helped the team to get that 20-point lead, it was a much-needed moment in the series. So I’m glad to see it happen.”

For the Heat, LeBron James and Dwayne Wade both scored 25 points as Miami continued a run which has seen the 2012 champions alternate between wins and losses over its last 12 playoff games.

Tuesday’s Game Six will see the series return to Miami’s American Airlines Arena, which will also stage Game Seven if it is required.


Article source: http://edition.cnn.com/2013/06/17/sport/tony-parker-manu-ginobili-san-antonio-nba/index.html?eref=edition

Article source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NewsRipplesWeb/~3/kncd_fa7Fnk/spurs-one-win-from-nba-triumph

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Sexy solstice


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In many parts of the world there is no better time to work on your mojo than on the longest day of the year. In Belarus girls and boys take the opportunity to celebrate the midnight sun on Ivan Kupala Day by bathing in lakes. In many parts of the world there is no better time to work on your mojo than on the longest day of the year. In Belarus girls and boys take the opportunity to celebrate the midnight sun on Ivan Kupala Day by bathing in lakes.

During the Swedish national holiday of Midsommar the usually cool, calm and collected Swedes turn to their raucous Viking roots and consume a copious amount of vodka and dance around -- according to some -- a rather phallic-looking Maypole. Perhaps unsurprisingly research shows a lot of babies are born nine months after the festivities. During the Swedish national holiday of Midsommar the usually cool, calm and collected Swedes turn to their raucous Viking roots and consume a copious amount of vodka and dance around — according to some — a rather phallic-looking Maypole. Perhaps unsurprisingly research shows a lot of babies are born nine months after the festivities.

During the Greek solstice celebration Klidonas, bachelors across the country try to impress single ladies by building tall fires and jumping over them. According to custom, anyone who jumps the flames three times is rewarded with a good year ahead but more importantly a likely date for the evening. During the Greek solstice celebration Klidonas, bachelors across the country try to impress single ladies by building tall fires and jumping over them. According to custom, anyone who jumps the flames three times is rewarded with a good year ahead but more importantly a likely date for the evening.

In Eastern Europe the solstice celebrations fall on Ivan Kupala Day, a holiday that has romantic connotations for many Slavs, kupala is derived from the same word as cupid. In Ukraine it is common for girls to put wreathes on a river to attract eligible bachelors. In Eastern Europe the solstice celebrations fall on Ivan Kupala Day, a holiday that has romantic connotations for many Slavs, “kupala” is derived from the same word as “cupid”. In Ukraine it is common for girls to put wreathes on a river to attract eligible bachelors.

In neighboring Belarus girls place candle offerings into rivers as they celebrate Ivan Kupala Day. The pagan tradition has been accepted into the Orthodox Christian calendar.In neighboring Belarus girls place candle offerings into rivers as they celebrate Ivan Kupala Day. The pagan tradition has been accepted into the Orthodox Christian calendar.

One of the largest solstice celebrations in the world takes place at the 5000 year-old Stonehenge, where thousands gather each year to bring in the summer season.One of the largest solstice celebrations in the world takes place at the 5000 year-old Stonehenge, where thousands gather each year to bring in the summer season.

Pagans and neo-druids treat the solstice like the ultimate marriage ceremony. Many couples go to Stonehenge on the Salisbury Plain to confirm their love on the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere.Pagans and neo-druids treat the solstice like the ultimate marriage ceremony. Many couples go to Stonehenge on the Salisbury Plain to confirm their love on the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere.


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How do you welcome summer? Share your experience with us.

(CNN) — In the Northern Hemisphere, the summer solstice has a history of stirring libidos, and it’s no wonder. The longest day of the year tends to kick off the start of the summer season and with it, the harvest. So it should come as no surprise that the solstice is linked to fertility — both of the vegetal and human variety.

“A lot of children are born nine months after Midsummer in Sweden,” says Jan-Öjvind Swahn, a Swedish ethnologist and the author of several books on the subject.

Midsummer is the Scandinavian holiday celebrating the summer solstice, which this year falls on June 21. Swedish traditions include dancing around a Maypole — a symbol which some view as phallic — and feasting on herring and copious amounts of vodka.

“Drinking is the most typical Midsummer tradition. There are historical pictures of people drinking to the point where they can’t go on anymore,” says Swahn. While the libations have a hand in the subsequent baby boom, Swahn points out that even without the booze, Midsummer is a time rich in romantic ritual.

Read more: The science behind a solar eclipse

“There used to be a tradition among unmarried girls, where if they ate something very salty during Midsummer, or else collected several different kinds of flowers and put these under their pillow when they slept, they would dream of their future husbands,” he says.

There is a similar mythology about dreaming of one’s future spouse in parts of Greece. There, as in many European countries, the pagan solstice got co-opted by Christianity and rebranded as St. John’s Day. Still, in many villages in the country’s north, the ancient rites are still celebrated.

One of the oldest rituals is called Klidonas, and involves local virgins gathering water from the sea. The village’s unmarried women all place a personal belonging in the pot and leave it under a fig tree overnight, where — folklore has it — the magic of the day imbues the objects with prophetic powers, and the girls in question dream of their future husbands.

The next day, all the women in the village gather, and take turns pulling out objects and reciting rhyming couplets that are meant to predict the romantic fortunes of the item’s owner. These days, however, the festival is more an excuse for the community of women to exchange bawdy jokes.

“In my village, the older women always seem to come up with the dirtiest rhymes,” says Eleni Fanariotou, who has filmed the custom. Later in the day, the sexes mingle and take turns jumping over a bonfire. Anyone who succeeds in jumping over the flames three times is meant to have a wish granted. Fanariotou says the festival often results in coupling.

Read more: 5 real-life wonderlands

“It’s a good time to meet someone, because all the young people in the village go, and it’s a good opportunity to socialize. Plus, all the men like to show off, and make the biggest fire they can to jump through.”

In Eastern Europe, the solstice celebrations fall on Ivan Kupala Day — a holiday that has romantic connotations for many Slavs (“kupala” is derived from the same word as “cupid”).

“It was once believed that Kupala night was a time for people to fall in love, and that those celebrating it would be happy and prosperous throughout the year,” recalls Agnieszka Bigaj, from the Polish tourist board. It used to be that young, unmarried women would float floral wreaths in the river where eager bachelors on the other side would try to catching the flowers. she adds.

According to Polish folklore, the man and woman in question would become a couple. Bonfires are also a large feature of the holiday, and it’s tradition for a couple to leap through the flames together while holding hands — if they don’t let go, it is said their love will last.

Test your knowledge of New Year customs

One of the largest solstice celebrations in the world, though, takes place at Stonehenge, where thousands gather each year to bring in the summer season. While for many the event is an excuse to party in the lead up to the Glastonbury Festival, there is also a strong contingent of pagans and neo-druids who treat the day like the ultimate marriage ceremony.

“All druid rituals have an element of fertility, and the solstice is no exception,” says King Arthur Pendragon, a senior archdruid. “We celebrate the union of the male and female deities — the sun and the Earth — on the longest day of the year.”

Article source: http://edition.cnn.com/2013/06/13/world/summer-solstice-world-celebrations-sex/index.html?eref=edition

Article source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NewsRipplesWeb/~3/78vVXmZ23hQ/sexy-solstice

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San Antonio one win from NBA title


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Kawhi Leonard of the San Antonio Spurs vies for the ball with Mike Miller of the Miami Heat on Sunday, June 16. The Spurs won Game 5 and lead the series 3-2.Kawhi Leonard of the San Antonio Spurs vies for the ball with Mike Miller of the Miami Heat on Sunday, June 16. The Spurs won Game 5 and lead the series 3-2.

LeBron James of the Miami Heat shoots over Boris Diaw of the San Antonio Spurs. The Spurs won 114-104.LeBron James of the Miami Heat shoots over Boris Diaw of the San Antonio Spurs. The Spurs won 114-104.

Dwayne Wade of the Miami Heat goes for a layup as Danny Green of the San Antonio Spurs stands helpless.Dwayne Wade of the Miami Heat goes for a layup as Danny Green of the San Antonio Spurs stands helpless.

The Heat's LeBron James gets a breather in the fourth quarter while taking on the San Antonio SpursThe Heat’s LeBron James gets a breather in the fourth quarter while taking on the San Antonio Spurs

Ray Allen of the Miami Heat goes up for a shot against Manu Ginobili of the San Antonio Spurs.Ray Allen of the Miami Heat goes up for a shot against Manu Ginobili of the San Antonio Spurs.

Dwyane Wade goes up for a dunk over Tim Duncan of the San Antonio Spurs.Dwyane Wade goes up for a dunk over Tim Duncan of the San Antonio Spurs.

LeBron James of the Miami Heat shoots under pressure from Danny Green of the San Antonio Spurs during Game 5.LeBron James of the Miami Heat shoots under pressure from Danny Green of the San Antonio Spurs during Game 5.

Tiago Splitter of the San Antonio Spurs runs into tight defense from Dwyane Wade, Chris Bosh and Shane Battier of of the Miami Heat.Tiago Splitter of the San Antonio Spurs runs into tight defense from Dwyane Wade, Chris Bosh and Shane Battier of of the Miami Heat.

Danny Green of the San Antonio Spurs goes up for a shot against Udonis Haslem of the Miami Heat.Danny Green of the San Antonio Spurs goes up for a shot against Udonis Haslem of the Miami Heat.

Tim Duncan of the San Antonio Spurs sits on the scorer's table.Tim Duncan of the San Antonio Spurs sits on the scorer’s table.

Chris Bosh of the Miami Heat and Tiago Splitter of the San Antonio Spurs wrestle for the ball. Chris Bosh of the Miami Heat and Tiago Splitter of the San Antonio Spurs wrestle for the ball.

Tiago Splitter of the San Antonio Spurs shoots over Ray Allen of the Miami Heat.Tiago Splitter of the San Antonio Spurs shoots over Ray Allen of the Miami Heat.

Kawhi Leonard of the San Antonio Spurs shoots over Shane Battier of the Miami Heat in the first half.Kawhi Leonard of the San Antonio Spurs shoots over Shane Battier of the Miami Heat in the first half.

Kawhi Leonard of the San Antonio Spurs and Chris Bosh of the Miami Heat grapple over a loose ball.Kawhi Leonard of the San Antonio Spurs and Chris Bosh of the Miami Heat grapple over a loose ball.

 Kawhi Leonard of the San Antonio Spurs dunks. Kawhi Leonard of the San Antonio Spurs dunks.

Tony Parker of the San Antonio Spurs goes up for a shot as Ray Allen of the Miami Heat looks on.Tony Parker of the San Antonio Spurs goes up for a shot as Ray Allen of the Miami Heat looks on.

Udonis Haslem of the Miami Heat boxes out Danny Green in the first half.Udonis Haslem of the Miami Heat boxes out Danny Green in the first half.

 LeBron James of the Miami Heat dunks in front of Tony Parker of the San Antonio Spurs in the second quarter. LeBron James of the Miami Heat dunks in front of Tony Parker of the San Antonio Spurs in the second quarter.

Danny Green of the San Antonio Spurs goes up for a shot against Ray Allen of the Miami Heat in the second quarter.Danny Green of the San Antonio Spurs goes up for a shot against Ray Allen of the Miami Heat in the second quarter.

Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich argues a call with referee Tony Brothers.Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich argues a call with referee Tony Brothers.

The Heat's Ray Allen lays against the basket in the second quarter.The Heat’s Ray Allen lays against the basket in the second quarter.


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(CNN) — The San Antonio Spurs are one win away from winning the 2013 NBA championship after a 114-104 victory over the Miami Heat in Game Five of the Finals.

Spurs star guard Tony Parker showed no signs of the hamstring injury which hampered him during Game Four, scoring 26 points to delight the AT T Center crowd.

“It was a physical game. Great game. I was just trying to pace myself better, if I can say that, during the game,” the Frenchman told reporters.

“Or else I’d be out of gas like I did in Game Four, where in the second half I didn’t have enough juice and my hamstring was kind of fatigued. In this game I was trying to take my time and it helped.”

Miami Heat players LeBron James and Dwayne Wade hug after the Heat defeated the San Antonio Spurs 109-93 in Game 4 of the NBA Finals on Thursday, June 13. The series is tied at 2-2. See photos from Game 3.Miami Heat players LeBron James and Dwayne Wade hug after the Heat defeated the San Antonio Spurs 109-93 in Game 4 of the NBA Finals on Thursday, June 13. The series is tied at 2-2. See photos from Game 3.

LeBron James of the Miami Heat tries to pass around Manu Ginobili during the fourth quarter.LeBron James of the Miami Heat tries to pass around Manu Ginobili during the fourth quarter.

Dwayne Wade of the Miami Heat drives past Manu Ginobili in the fourth quarter.Dwayne Wade of the Miami Heat drives past Manu Ginobili in the fourth quarter.

Tony Parker of the San Antonio Spurs drives on Miami's Norris Cole in the second half of the game.Tony Parker of the San Antonio Spurs drives on Miami’s Norris Cole in the second half of the game.

Tim Duncan of the San Antonio Spurs shoots over Chris Bosh in the third quarter.Tim Duncan of the San Antonio Spurs shoots over Chris Bosh in the third quarter.

Chris Bosh of the Miami Heat battles for the ball against Tim Duncan of the Spurs in the first half.Chris Bosh of the Miami Heat battles for the ball against Tim Duncan of the Spurs in the first half.

Tim Duncan of the San Antonio Spurs reacts in the third quarter.Tim Duncan of the San Antonio Spurs reacts in the third quarter.

LeBron James of the Miami Heat goes up for a shot against Tim Duncan during the first half.LeBron James of the Miami Heat goes up for a shot against Tim Duncan during the first half.

LeBron James of the Miami Heat takes a shot over Kawhi Leonard of the San Antonio Spurs.LeBron James of the Miami Heat takes a shot over Kawhi Leonard of the San Antonio Spurs.

The Spurs' Tony Parker lays the ball up against Udonis Haslem of the Heat.The Spurs’ Tony Parker lays the ball up against Udonis Haslem of the Heat.

LeBron James boxes out Kawhi Leonard.LeBron James boxes out Kawhi Leonard.

LeBron James of the Heat defends the ball against Kawhi Leonard.LeBron James of the Heat defends the ball against Kawhi Leonard.

The Heat's Chris Bosh goes up for a shot against Tim Duncan, left, and Manu Ginobili.The Heat’s Chris Bosh goes up for a shot against Tim Duncan, left, and Manu Ginobili.

Tim Duncan of the Spurs puts pressure on LeBron James as he vies for position.Tim Duncan of the Spurs puts pressure on LeBron James as he vies for position.

Head coach Gregg Popovich of the San Antonio Spurs reacts during the first quarter.Head coach Gregg Popovich of the San Antonio Spurs reacts during the first quarter.

Tiago Splitter of the San Antonio Spurs loses his footing as Dwayne Wade goes for the ball.Tiago Splitter of the San Antonio Spurs loses his footing as Dwayne Wade goes for the ball.


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Photos: Game 4 of the NBA FinalsPhotos: Game 4 of the NBA Finals

Danny Green of the San Antonio Spurs celebrates with teammate Gary Neal as they take on the Miami Heat during Game 3 of the 2013 NBA Finals on Tuesday, June 11, in San Antonio. The Spurs defeated the Heat 113-77 and lead the series 2-1. See photos from Game 2.Danny Green of the San Antonio Spurs celebrates with teammate Gary Neal as they take on the Miami Heat during Game 3 of the 2013 NBA Finals on Tuesday, June 11, in San Antonio. The Spurs defeated the Heat 113-77 and lead the series 2-1. See photos from Game 2.

From left, Miami Heat's Mike Miller, Chris Bosh, Dwyane Wade and LeBron James talk during a break in the game.From left, Miami Heat’s Mike Miller, Chris Bosh, Dwyane Wade and LeBron James talk during a break in the game.

Miami's Chris Andersen goes for a rebound against the San Antonio Spurs' Tim Duncan, right, and Danny Green, left.Miami’s Chris Andersen goes for a rebound against the San Antonio Spurs’ Tim Duncan, right, and Danny Green, left.

San Antonio's Tim Duncan and Miami's LeBron James battle for position.San Antonio’s Tim Duncan and Miami’s LeBron James battle for position.

Gary Neal of the San Antonio Spurs makes a three-pointer over Mike Miller of the Miami Heat during the second quarter.Gary Neal of the San Antonio Spurs makes a three-pointer over Mike Miller of the Miami Heat during the second quarter.

Danny Green of the San Antonio Spurs reacts after making a three-pointer. Green has hit 12 straight threes going back to Game 2 and finished with 27 on the night.Danny Green of the San Antonio Spurs reacts after making a three-pointer. Green has hit 12 straight threes going back to Game 2 and finished with 27 on the night.

Cory Joseph of the San Antonio Spurs and Norris Cole of the Miami Heat go after a loose ball in the second half.Cory Joseph of the San Antonio Spurs and Norris Cole of the Miami Heat go after a loose ball in the second half.

The San Antonio Spurs and the Miami Heat face off in Game 3 of the 2013 NBA Finals on Tuesday, June 11, in San Antonio. The San Antonio Spurs and the Miami Heat face off in Game 3 of the 2013 NBA Finals on Tuesday, June 11, in San Antonio.

Mario Chalmers of the Miami Heat goes up for a shot against Tim Duncan of the San Antonio Spurs in the first half.Mario Chalmers of the Miami Heat goes up for a shot against Tim Duncan of the San Antonio Spurs in the first half.

Tony Parker of the San Antonio Spurs dribbles under pressure from Chris Bosh of the Miami Heat.Tony Parker of the San Antonio Spurs dribbles under pressure from Chris Bosh of the Miami Heat.

Manu Ginobili, right, congratulates Kawhi Leonard of the San Antonio Spurs after scoring during the first half.Manu Ginobili, right, congratulates Kawhi Leonard of the San Antonio Spurs after scoring during the first half.

Chris Bosh, left, and LeBron James, center, of the Miami Heat box out Tiago Splitter of the San Antonio Spurs.Chris Bosh, left, and LeBron James, center, of the Miami Heat box out Tiago Splitter of the San Antonio Spurs.

Tony Parker of the San Antonio Spurs drives on Chris Bosh of the Miami Heat in the first quarter.Tony Parker of the San Antonio Spurs drives on Chris Bosh of the Miami Heat in the first quarter.

LeBron James of the Miami Heat reacts after a call in the first quarter against the San Antonio Spurs.LeBron James of the Miami Heat reacts after a call in the first quarter against the San Antonio Spurs.

Tim Duncan of the San Antonio Spurs dunks the ball over Udonis Haslem of the Miami Heat.Tim Duncan of the San Antonio Spurs dunks the ball over Udonis Haslem of the Miami Heat.

LeBron James of the Miami Heat looks to pass as he is guarded by Tim Duncan of the San Antonio Spurs.LeBron James of the Miami Heat looks to pass as he is guarded by Tim Duncan of the San Antonio Spurs.

Tim Duncan of the San Antonio Spurs shoots over Udonis Haslem, center, and Chris Bosh, left, of the Miami Heat.Tim Duncan of the San Antonio Spurs shoots over Udonis Haslem, center, and Chris Bosh, left, of the Miami Heat.


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Photos: Game 3 of the NBA FinalsPhotos: Game 3 of the NBA Finals

Mike Miller of the Miami Heat reacts after making a three-pointer in the fourth quarter against the San Antonio Spurs during Game 2 of the 2013 NBA Finals on Sunday, June 9, in Miami. The Heat defeated the Spurs 103-84 to tie the series 1-1. See photos from Game 1.Mike Miller of the Miami Heat reacts after making a three-pointer in the fourth quarter against the San Antonio Spurs during Game 2 of the 2013 NBA Finals on Sunday, June 9, in Miami. The Heat defeated the Spurs 103-84 to tie the series 1-1. See photos from Game 1.

Tim Duncan of the San Antonio Spurs bows his head while taking on the Miami Heat during Game 2.Tim Duncan of the San Antonio Spurs bows his head while taking on the Miami Heat during Game 2.

Dwyane Wade of the Miami Heat tries to drive around Danny Green of the San Antonio Spurs in the third quarter.Dwyane Wade of the Miami Heat tries to drive around Danny Green of the San Antonio Spurs in the third quarter.

LeBron James of the Miami Heat blocks the shot of Tiago Splitter of the San Antonio Spurs in the fourth quarter.LeBron James of the Miami Heat blocks the shot of Tiago Splitter of the San Antonio Spurs in the fourth quarter.

Tony Parker of the San Antonio Spurs uses a screen from Tim Duncan to get around LeBron James of the Miami Heat in the third quarter.Tony Parker of the San Antonio Spurs uses a screen from Tim Duncan to get around LeBron James of the Miami Heat in the third quarter.

LeBron James of the Miami Heat goes up for a shot against Danny Green of the San Antonio Spurs.LeBron James of the Miami Heat goes up for a shot against Danny Green of the San Antonio Spurs.

LeBron James of the Miami Heat shoots over Kawhi Leonard of the San Antonio Spurs during Game 2.LeBron James of the Miami Heat shoots over Kawhi Leonard of the San Antonio Spurs during Game 2.

Dwyane Wade of the Miami Heat and Manu Ginobili of the San Antonio Spurs go after a loose ball.Dwyane Wade of the Miami Heat and Manu Ginobili of the San Antonio Spurs go after a loose ball.

Tim Duncan of the San Antonio Spurs goes to the basket against Udonis Haslem of the Miami Heat during Game 2.Tim Duncan of the San Antonio Spurs goes to the basket against Udonis Haslem of the Miami Heat during Game 2.

Danny Green of the San Antonio Spurs makes a three-pointer over Chris Bosh of the Miami Heat in the first quarter.Danny Green of the San Antonio Spurs makes a three-pointer over Chris Bosh of the Miami Heat in the first quarter.

LeBron James of the Miami Heat drives against Kawhi Leonard of the San Antonio Spurs.LeBron James of the Miami Heat drives against Kawhi Leonard of the San Antonio Spurs.

Manu Ginobili of the San Antonio Spurs goes up for a shot between Chris Bosh, left, and Dwyane Wade of the Miami Heat.Manu Ginobili of the San Antonio Spurs goes up for a shot between Chris Bosh, left, and Dwyane Wade of the Miami Heat.

Tiago Splitter of the San Antonio Spurs drives to the basket against Udonis Haslem of the Miami Heat.Tiago Splitter of the San Antonio Spurs drives to the basket against Udonis Haslem of the Miami Heat.

It's a packed-in crowd at Game 2 of the 2013 NBA finals at American Airlines Arena in Miami. It’s a packed-in crowd at Game 2 of the 2013 NBA finals at American Airlines Arena in Miami.

Tim Duncan of the San Antonio Spurs and Chris Bosh of the Miami Heat go for the jump ball at the start of Game 2.Tim Duncan of the San Antonio Spurs and Chris Bosh of the Miami Heat go for the jump ball at the start of Game 2.

Dwyane Wade of the Miami Heat reacts in the first quarter while taking on the San Antonio Spurs.Dwyane Wade of the Miami Heat reacts in the first quarter while taking on the San Antonio Spurs.

Chris Andersen of the Miami Heat dunks the ball in the first quarter against the San Antonio Spurs.Chris Andersen of the Miami Heat dunks the ball in the first quarter against the San Antonio Spurs.

Danny Green of the San Antonio Spurs reacts after making a three-pointer in the first quarter against the Miami Heat.Danny Green of the San Antonio Spurs reacts after making a three-pointer in the first quarter against the Miami Heat.

Tim Duncan of the San Antonio Spurs goes up for a shot over Udonis Haslem of the Miami Heat.Tim Duncan of the San Antonio Spurs goes up for a shot over Udonis Haslem of the Miami Heat.

Chris Bosh of the Miami Heat blocks the shot of Tiago Splitter of the San Antonio Spurs in the first quarter.Chris Bosh of the Miami Heat blocks the shot of Tiago Splitter of the San Antonio Spurs in the first quarter.


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Photos: Game 2 of the NBA FinalsPhotos: Game 2 of the NBA Finals

Read: LeBron and Kobe among top-paid athletes

Argentine Manu Ginobili turned in his finest performance of the series so far, adding 24 points and 10 assists.

The Spurs opened up a 20-point lead in the third quarter, with the crowd showing their appreciation with chants of “Ma-nu” as Gregg Popovich’s team closed on a first NBA title since 2007.

“I was having a tough time scoring, and I needed to feel like the game was coming to me, and I was being able to attack the rim, get to the free-throw line, and make a couple of shots,” said Ginobli.

“So it felt great when I heard that. To feel that I really helped the team to get that 20-point lead, it was a much-needed moment in the series. So I’m glad to see it happen.”

For the Heat, LeBron James and Dwayne Wade both scored 25 points as Miami continued a run which has seen the 2012 champions alternate between wins and losses over its last 12 playoff games.

Tuesday’s Game Six will see the series return to Miami’s American Airlines Arena, which will also stage Game Seven if it is required.


Article source: http://edition.cnn.com/2013/06/17/sport/tony-parker-manu-ginobili-san-antonio-nba/index.html?eref=edition

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