All I want for Christmas is the NBA - Schedule of Games

The NBA Opening Day Schedule for Christmas! (The full regular-season and TV schedules are expected to be released December 6,2011)

You knew that the NBA players and owners would settle there labor disputes in time so as to have basketball games on Christmas Day! The advertizing income was too big of a carrot not to take a bite of and devour.

So after Santa has visited you and left all those gifts you didn't want or can't use. Before you go back to the store's on December 26 to try and return that tie or ugly sweater you wont wear. Sit down on the coach, flip on the TV and watch the Millionaires play for there Billionaires owners as the NBA is back!

The Christmas Day schedule is as follows!

Boston Celtics at the New York Knicks 12:00pm on TNT
(All-Star foursome of Ray Allen, Kevin Garnett, Paul Pierce and Rajon Rondo (if he is STILL a Celtic) up against Carmelo Anthony and Amar'e Stoudemire.NO CP3 YET!?)

 
 

Miami Heat at the defending champion Dallas Mavericks 2:30 on ABC
(In a re-match of the 2011 NBA finals pits the fab three Lebron James,D-Wade and Chris Bosh facing off against Finals MVP Dirk Nowitzki.)

 

 
Chicago Bulls at the Los Angeles Lakers 5pm on ABC
(NBA MVP Derrick Rose faces off against perennial All-Star Kobe Bryant as the Lakers make a record-tying 13th Christmas Day appearance. But this time it will be for new coach Mike Brown.)

 

 

  
Oklahoma City Thunder at the Orlando Magic 8pm est on ESPN
(Two-time NBA scoring champion Kevin Durant faces off against three-time NBA Defensive Player of the Year Dwight Howard.)

 

Los Angeles Clippers at the Golden State Warriors at 10:30pm on ESPN
(2010-11 rookie of the year and slam dunk champion Blake Griffin faces off against rookie head coach and former NBA guard and noted TV analyst Mark Jackson.)



Let the Money begin to role again!

IS THERE AN iPhone Shortage? My Quest to get the 4S

Dear Apple,Inc......

UPDATE:12/1/11- Going to try the 9pm "reserve-refresh", "reserve-refresh" try my luck at apple.con/store Friday night! Also my sister ordered it for my brother in-law from AT&T. He is an existing customer. Told it will take at least two weeks for her to get it!

OK, to say I've been dragging my feet on getting the Apple iPhone is putting it mildly. I have been contemplating it and researching it for probably over two years now.

"I'll wait for the 4 to come out. OK, no now I hear the 5 is coming out, going to be better." On and on and on....

But finally I decided, with two Birthday present gift cards from my sister, to get the iPhone 4S! Just in time as the phone I am using now is the old LG Chocolate  from like six years ago. Battery now NOT holding a charge for too long,which I got on e-bay. Have to bash the phone symbol to make a call. Scroll is all out of whack. On and on and on.....

Anyway went down to the Apple store on the upper west side of NYC near Lincoln Center at 1981 Broadway NYC, NY.



Walked in and told one of the "Geniuses" I am READY to get my iPhone! To my surprise he asked if I had reserved one!


Now on the Apple.co/store it states this: "iPhone is available for walk-in purchases at an Apple Retail Store on a first-come, first-served basis. Or you can reserve an iPhone online and we'll have one waiting for you at the store you choose.

When you come in to purchase your iPhone, you'll also get Personal Setup. We'll activate your iPhone, set up iCloud, transfer contacts from your old phone, and answer all your questions. You'll be up and running before you leave the store."

But what I was told is they "DO NOT EXCEPT" walk-ins for iPhone purchases! I would have to go to apple.com/store around 9pm or a little earlier and try and "RESERVE" mine at the store of my choice where they would hold it till closing of the next business day where I can pick it up for purchase and set-up! Also if you are having problems with the site, just keep hitting re-fresh! Your chances on getting one reserved depends on the number who are trying, internet connection etc. They go fast, so keep trying every night.

WHAT?!    


I was amazed. We decided to ask others in the store about the purchase of the iPhone. One said they "Might" have some left for the ones who never came in to get it. Back to ask another "Genius" but he said no that's NOT the case.  Upon telling what was on there site, he just said they do not except walk-ins. They did have available a jailbreak one for purchase at full regular $649.99 no contract needed.

I called around to a couple of other Apple stores in NYC and beyond and was told the same thing.

Now I can't get it on-line either with Apple or my current carrier since I am switching to SPRINT, and they too will not except new iPhone customers only existing customers and the wait is 1-2 weeks ! I also want there "Unlimited" data plans and even if they would let me purchase through Sprint I can't since I have gift cards ONLY redeemable at Apple stores which I have to go to and can't purchase it online since I am switching services and want to "Port" my existing number. UGGG!

So NOW my quest has taken another turn. Getting the iPhone has become almost "Mission Impossible"

I would LOVE to hear your stories if you are experiencing any difficulties in your purchase attempts!
STAY TUNED!

Jim Boeheim releases statement on Bernie Fine firing

Jim Boeheim releases statement: “The allegations that have come forth today are disturbing and deeply troubling. I am personally very shocked because I have never witnessed any of the activities that have been alleged. I believe the university took the appropriate step tonight. What is most important is that this matter be fully investigated and that anyone with information be supported to come forward so that the truth can be found. I deeply regret any statements I made that might have inhibited that from occurring or been insensitive to victims of abuse.” 

Bernie Fine had been an assistant coach at Syracuse University mens Basketball for 36 years, the longest active streak at one school among Division I assistant coaches.Late on Sunday November 27, 2011, the University fired the 65 year old over the ongoing accusations and investigation of sexually molesting boys.

The firing comes the same day that ESPN released tapes of one of Fine's accusers discussing what happened with the assistant coach's wife in a tape-recorded 2002 telephone conversation.

Jerry Sandusky Speaks out in Interview(VIDEO)

Excerpts of the Bob Costas interview with accused child molestation abuser Jerry Sandusky from NBC'S show RockCenter which aired on Monday November 14, 2011.

Costas: Did Joe Paterno know anything prior to 2002 or has he ever spoke to you about this.Sandusky: "NO he never new anything,never spoke to me about my behavior or reports of it. I feel horrible what has happened to Penn State, but it;s NOT my fault. I should not have showered with those kids, that what hits me the most!

When asked by Costas, "Are you a pedophile," Sandusky responded "No. I'm innocent of these charges" Jerry Sandusky tells Bob Costas


Joe Paternos one time defensive coordinator was charged earlier this month with 40 counts of sexually abusing eight boys. He is currently free on a $100,000 bond and has denied any wrongdoing. The allegations date back to 1994, according to a grand jury report. A grand jury report detailed claims of alleged sexual encounters with young boys in Paterno's home, hotels and Penn State locker rooms.

"I say that I am innocent of those charges," said Sandusky in a phone interview with Bob Costas on the NBC TV show RockCenter with Brian Williams.

"I could say that I have done some of those things. I have horsed around with kids I have showered after workouts. I have hugged them and I have touched their legs without intent of sexual contact," said Sandusky.

When pressed by Costas about what Sandusky was willing to concede that he'd done was wrong, Sandusky said, "I shouldn't have showered with those kids."

This also on the heals of a report on the NBC Nightly News by Peter Alexander about an e-mail to former Penn State teammates by then graduate assistant coach and now it appears former receivers coach according to The Patriot-News reporting that McQueary told his receivers in a conference call that he would no longer be their coach. He is now said to be in protective custody after reported threats against him.

"I did the right thing…you guys know me...the truth is not out there fully... I didn't just turn and run... I made sure it stopped...I had to make quick tough decisions…"

SHAME, SHAME, on everyone involved! This whole incident is sickening. The University, PENN STATE, and all who covered up and are now trying to save there you no what is a tragedy.

If this is ultimately proven to be true, I question EVERYONE in the NCAA college football fraternity as reports out there also have suggested that even others outside of Penn State new or heard rumors about this and also DID NOTHING!

And to me, the Former Penn State President, Graham Spanier should have STOPPED this. To me he is the final buffer from when all else fails or covered up, he WAS supposed to be there to protect the children of not just Pen State but the entire community of Happy Valley!

Joe Paterno FIRED from Penn State over Sandusky - Issues Statement

If you suspected someone were sexually abusing children, how far would you go to stop it?

UPDATE:11/10/11- This is a statement from Joe Paterno issued after he was FIRED! ©2011 (All Rights Reserved)

"I am disappointed with the Board of Trustees' decision, but I have to accept it.
A tragedy occurred, and we all have to have patience to let the legal process proceed. I appreciate the outpouring of support but want to emphasize that everyone should remain calm and please respect the university, its property and all that we value.
I have been incredibly blessed to spend my entire career working with people I love. I am grateful beyond words to all of the coaches, players and staff who have been a part of this program. And to all of our fans and supporters, my family and I will be forever in your debt."
Earlier Wednesday, Paterno released a statement saying he planned to retire at the end of the season:
"I am absolutely devastated by the developments in this case. I grieve for the children and their families, and I pray for their comfort and relief.
I have come to work every day for the last 61 years with one clear goal in mind: To serve the best interests of this university and the young men who have been entrusted to my care. I have the same goal today.
That's why I have decided to announce my retirement effective at the end of this season. At this moment the Board of Trustees should not spend a single minute discussing my status. They have far more important matters to address. I want to make this as easy for them as I possibly can.
This is a tragedy. It is one of the great sorrows of my life. With the benefit of hindsight, I wish I had done more.
My goals now are to keep my commitments to my players and staff and finish the season with dignity and determination. And then I will spend the rest of my life doing everything I can to help this University."

UPDATE 11/9/11-  STATEMENT from Joe Paterno "right now im not the coach. And after 61 years I have to get used to that." A 10 p.m. press conference, the board of trustees voted Joe Paterno and school president Dr. Graham Spanier out, FIRED, from Penn State University over the Sandusky scandal. Reports that Joe was NOT informed of the firing in person, just a phone call!

MASSIVE PROTEST GOING ON NOW ON BEAVER AVE. Penn State

UPDATE:11/9/11- Scott Paterno keeps talking to anyone and everyone about his Dad, Joe Paterno. Last night at the rally outside JoPa's home he said to the crowd.“Say a prayer,” he told them, “and then please, feel free to cheer, feel free to show your support, but let’s remember ... to show support for the victims first.”

Here is a video of Scott speaking to the media about the status of his father's job on Tuesday Nov.8,2011 outside a home in State College.(click here to see video).
Also Reports that University President (1995 – 2011) Graham Spanier will be OUT as of latter tonight. It is said he has already submitted his resignation. The board of trustees are meeting now.

UPDATE: 11/9/11- Legendary Penn State head football coach Joe Paterno will retire at the end of the season, he said Wednesday in a statement.

“I am absolutely devastated by the developments in this case. I grieve for the children and their families, and I pray for their comfort and relief.  
I have come to work every day for the last 61 years with one clear goal in mind: To serve the best interests of this university and the young men who have been entrusted to my care. I have the same goal today.
That’s why I have decided to announce my retirement effective at the end of this season. At this moment the Board of Trustees should not spend a single minute discussing my status. They have far more important matters to address. I want to make this  as easy for them as I possibly can.
This is a tragedy. It is one of the great sorrows of my life. With the benefit of hindsight, I wish I had done more.
My goals now are to keep my commitments to my players and staff and finish the season with dignity and determination. And then I will spend the rest of my life doing everything I can to help this University.”
  
Joseph Vincent "Joe" Paterno "JoPa" (born December 21, 1926) in Brooklyn, New York to a family of Italian ancestry is embroiled in an alleged coverup of a sex-abuse scandal at Penn State involving former defensive coordinator and onetime heir apparent Jerry Sandusky, who was indicted on charges of sexually abusing eight boys over 15 years.

Joe Paterno came to Penn State in 1950 as a 23-year-old assistant coach making $3,600 a year. He became the head coach in 1966.

The grand jury's findings list eight boys that Sandusky allegedly victimized, in 40 separate incidents, over a 15-year period from 1994-2009, before and after he retired from coaching.
 
The Pennsylvania state police commissioner said Joe Paterno fulfilled his legal requirement when he relayed to university administrators that a graduate assistant, Mike McQueary — now the team’s wide receivers coach, had seen on March 1, 2002, that Jerry Sandusky attacking a young boy in the team’s locker-room shower. But the commissioner also questioned whether Paterno had a moral responsibility to do more.

Paterno & Sandusky

McQueary first contacted his father before calling Paterno the next morning, then meeting at Paterno’s home.

Paterno called athletic director Tim Curley the next day to tell him that McQueary had seen Sandusky “in the Lasch Building showers fondling or doing something of a sexual nature to a young boy.”

What did President Graham Spanier know and when?  How could President Spanier sign a 2002  ‘ban’ of Sandusky bringing children into facilities, and not ask why?  Why was that ban never enforced? A grand jury investigation is launched in 2008 into sexual child abuse allegations against Sandusky, yet he still has access to an office at Penn State and was even on campus just a week ago.

Statement from President Graham Spanier:

Graham Spanier

Saturday, November 5, 2011

"The allegations about a former coach are troubling, and it is appropriate that they be investigated thoroughly. Protecting children requires the utmost vigilance.

With regard to the other presentments, I wish to say that Tim Curley and Gary Schultz have my unconditional support. I have known and worked daily with Tim and Gary for more than 16 years. I have complete confidence in how they have handled the allegations about a former University employee.

Tim Curley and Gary Schultz operate at the highest levels of honesty, integrity and compassion. I am confident the record will show that these charges are groundless and that they conducted themselves professionally and appropriately."

Statement from Coach Joe Paterno:

"If true, the nature and amount of charges made are very shocking to me and all Penn Staters, While I did what I was supposed to with the one charge brought to my attention, like anyone else involved I can't help but be deeply saddened these matters are alleged to have occurred."

At age 84 and with 46 seasons as the Penn State head coach behind him, Paterno’s extraordinary run of success — one that produced tens of millions of dollars for the school and two national championships, and that established him as one of the nation’s most revered leaders, will end with a stunning and humiliating final chapter.

The New York Times reported Tuesday November 8, 2011 that Penn St. Nittany Lions head coach Joe Paterno is on the way out, possibly as soon as some time within the next few days. The school's board of trustees has a scheduled meeting for Friday, which Pennsylvania's governor is supposed to attend.

The Associated Press reports a decision could be made even before then on Paterno's future:
 The person is familiar with the trustees' discussions but says it's unclear what the consequences for Paterno will be. The person says a decision could be at hand before the board meets Friday.

Paterno's son Scott has denied the Times report, saying Paterno's retirement hasn't been discussed and that he will coach this Saturday's game against Nebraska.

Sandusky, Curley, Schultz

Penn State senior vice president Gary Schultz and athletic director Tim Curley surrendered on charges that they failed to alert police to the complaint about Sandusky.

Schultz and Curley are also charged with lying to the state grand jury that indicted Sandusky. Both stepped down from their posts Sunday, Curley taking a temporary leave and Schultz retiring. They appeared Monday in a Harrisburg courtroom, where a judge set bail at $75,000. They weren’t required to enter pleas.

Pennsylvania attorney general Linda Kelly said Paterno is not a target of the investigation into how the school handled the accusations. But she refused to say the same for university president Graham Spanier.

“All I can say is, again, I’m limited to what’s contained in the presentment, and that this is an ongoing investigation,” Kelly said.

This is an egregious coverup of a very sick individual, if the allegation's are proven true. The responsibility is on everyone who knew anything about this and did either just enough or tried to sweep it away. The fact he was still on campus yesterday in the weight room with Penn State football players speaking to the teams wide receivers is sickening. 

While Joe Paterno did report the matter to his supervisor fulfilling his legal requirements under Pennsylvania law should he have done more? To me more blame falls on Penn State President Graham Spanier. The buck stops at that University with HIM! 

But now, BOTH must go. SHAME on ALL involved and on PENN STATE!