LEGO Minecraft : Creepers, cochons et squelettes

LEGO Minecraft : Creepers, cochons et squelettes

Par Brick Will | 00:03 - [News]

L'équipe LEGO en charge du développement de la gamme Minecraft "à l'échelle" minifig vient de mettre en ligne ce visuel pour souhaiter de bonnes fêtes aux fans de la page facebook dédiée à ce projet.

A plusieurs reprises, les designers ont fait appel aux fans via des sondages sur les différents prototypes d'animaux, de lieux ou de personnages pour les aider à progresser dans l'adaptation de la licence à la sauce LEGO. 

A quelques modifications mineures près et quelques stickers en moins (quoique...), le résultat final est sans doute sur l'image ci-dessus. Ce sera sans moi, mais je comprends volontiers l'engouement suscité par cette nouvelle interprétation de l'univers Minecraft avec personnages, animaux et objets cultes du jeu.

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Target Sued for Credit Card Hack

Target was hit with a lawsuit Thursday amid the news that hackers had breached the retailer’s systems and compromised as many as 40 million customers’ credit and debt card data.

The lawsuit in a San Francisco federal court was filed hours after Target acknowledged the hack, which took place between Nov. 27 and Dec. 15. The lawsuit was filed by a California resident, Jennifer Kirk, who wants to make into a class-action suit representing other Target customers also affected by the data breach, Bloomberg Businessweek reports. “Target failed to implement and maintain reasonable security procedures and practices appropriate to the nature and scope of the information compromised in the data breach,” the complaint reads.

Target hasn’t yet commented on the lawsuit.

The hack was one of the largest credit card breaches in U.S. history, and occurred when a computer virus infected its point-of-sale terminals where shoppers swipe their credit or debit cards. The Secret Service is also investigating the breach.

Read more: Target Sued Over Credit Card Breach | TIME.com http://business.time.com/2013/12/20/target-sued-for-credit-card-hack/#ixzz2o3Pv1vIz

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'Duck Dynasty' family, conservatives defend Phil Robertson

Tribune staff and wire reports

"Duck Dynasty" family members say they are considering withdrawing from the series over A&E's suspension of patriarch Phil Robertson for anti-gay comments, joining many conservatives leaping to his defense.

Robertson, the patriarch of the backwater Louisiana clan on the reality show about hunting, fishing and domestic squabbles, was put on indefinite "hiatus" by A&E for his remarks to GQ magazine characterizing homosexuality as sinful behavior.

"We have had a successful working relationship with A&E but, as a family, we cannot imagine the show going forward without our patriarch at the helm," said the statement, which was released on the Robertsons' "Duck Commander" website. "We are in discussions with A&E to see what that means for the future of 'Duck Dynasty.'"

The statement said the Robertsons have "spent much time in prayer since learning of A&E's decision. We want you to know that first and foremost we are a family rooted in our faith in God and our belief that the Bible is His word.

"While some of Phil's unfiltered comments to the reporter were coarse, his beliefs are grounded in the teachings of the Bible. Phil is a Godly man who follows what the Bible says are the greatest commandments: 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart' and 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' Phil would never incite or encourage hate. We are disappointed that Phil has been placed on hiatus for expressing his faith, which is his constitutionally protected right.... Again, thank you for your continued support of our family."

Reaction to Robertson's comments was swift from across the political spectrum with gay rights group GLAAD condemning the remarks while conservative politicians defended Robertson.

Former U.S. Republican vice presidential candidate Sarah Palin and Louisiana Governor Bobby Jindal, both leapt to the star's side, saying he was a victim of political correctness.

"Free speech is an endangered species: Those 'intolerants' hatin' & taking on Duck Dynasty patriarch for voicing personal opinion take on us all," tweeted Palin.

Jindal, also a Republican and possible 2016 U.S. presidential candidate, criticized A&E's reaction and described Robertson and his family, who turned their animal-call company Duck Commander into a hunting industry leader, as "great citizens of the State of Louisiana."

"The politically correct crowd is tolerant of all viewpoints, except those they disagree with," Jindal said in a statement.

"You can see your politics whether you see this as an issue of hate speech or free speech," said Craig Detweiler, a professor at Pepperdine University in Malibu, California, who specializes in media and religion. "What you see is conservatives pushing back on social pluralism."

Petitions started at Change.org and by Christian consumer group Faith Driven Consumerhave each received more than 50,000 signatures demanding Robertson return to the show.

GLAAD representative Wilson Cruz responded to Robertson's remarks with a statement:

"Phil and his family claim to be Christian, but Phil's lies about an entire community fly in the face of what true Christians believe. He clearly knows nothing about gay people or the majority of Louisianans -- and Americans -- who support legal recognition for loving and committed gay and lesbian couples.

"Phil's decision to push vile and extreme stereotypes is a stain on A&E and his sponsors who now need to reexamine their ties to someone with such public disdain for LGBT people and families."

Former "American Idol" contestant Clay Aiken also offered his thoughts on the scandal, saying that such comments and attitudes are "built out of fear."

Aiken made the statement on "The Arsenio Hall Show" on Thursday, telling his former "Celebrity Apprentice" castmate that Robertson’s comments prove that society still has "a long way to go" in accepting homosexuality.

"I think it certainly shows that we've got a long way to go when it comes to people being accepting and understanding," Aiken, who came out as gay in 2008, said. "Homophobia, racism …. all of it's built out of fear. All of it's out of fear. And if you grow up in an area like Louisiana and you're not exposed to diversity, then you can be afraid of things."

Controversy ahead of season debut

The controversy put A&E, part-owned by Walt Disney Co, in the awkward position of coming up with a palatable response possibly to the detriment of its most popular show, which is scheduled to begin its fifth season on Jan. 15.

Copyright © 2013 Chicago Tribune Company, LLC

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'X Factor' Finale Recap: Alex and Sierra Win Season Three

'X Factor' Finale Recap: Alex and Sierra Win Season Three

One Direction, Lea Michele and more perform in two-hour show

by KATY KROLL

DECEMBER 20, 2013 10:00 AM

Phew. The X Factor finally did something right this season: Alex and Sierra won.

Rolling Stone's Complete Coverage of The X Factor

After a rocky, borderline-laughable third season, the show may have saved face by declaring the cutesy couple from Simon Cowell's Groups category the victor and handing them a $1 million recording contract. They might actually stand a chance in the real world.

Of course, the U.S. version of The X Factor doesn't have a great history of launching careers – both previous winners (Melanie Amaro and Tate Stevens) have disappeared, and the biggest names to come out of the show so far are Fifth Harmony and Emblem3 (exactly). But considering how well Alex and Sierra did on the iTunes songs chart week after week and that mentor Cowell is often willing to put his money where his mouth it, there's a slight glimmer of hope they could be the first X Factor act to make an impact. Then again, they too may vanish into thin air.

But with Cowell on their side, it seems like they might actually stand a chance, as he's been deeply invested in groups from the franchise (which is huge in many countries outside the U.S.) ever since One Direction blew up after being put together on the U.K. version in 2010.

So, despite The X Factor being one hot mess of a show on the verge of extinction (there are conflicting reports about whether it will be renewed, with no official word from Fox yet), Alex and Sierra seem to have a better shot at after-show fame than, say, this season's Voice winner Tessanne Chin. Mainly because The X Factor has a better global track record of breaking stars and Cowell's bread and butter comes from being a record exec, whereas the coaches on The Voice are singers trying to elevate and maintain their celebrity status and probably don't really want other artists nibbling on theirspread. 

But only time will tell who will float and who will sink. For now, Alex and Sierra can walk around showing off their matching World's Cutest Couple sashes. "Thank you for not making fun of my weird faces" was all Sierra could say after being announced the winner of show, since she and Alex were crying too much to even speak (let alone sing, which they were forced to do one last time).

Meanwhile, despite giving it his all in the final performances, Over 25er Jeff Gutt and mentor Kelly Rowland had to settle for second while Paulina Rubio's Boys team member Carlito Olivero placed third.

Filling in the two-hour finale were former X Factor U.K. finalists One Direction, for what felt like their 10th performance this season, and U.K. winner Leona Lewis (who did a duet with Alex and Sierra Wednesday night). Mary J. Blige, Pitbull and Glee star Lea Michele also made appearances.

And while this may or may not be the last we see of The X Factor, it was definitely the last time Demi Lovato will appear as a judge on the show. But there was no big send-off, or even any mention of her departure. Instead, the show thought it would be fitting to make fun of the fact that she used to have a drinking problem by implying that she constantly slurped on bright green "Annoying Juice" while sitting at the judges' table. The recently rehabbed former Disney star wasn't amused, mouthing "that's fucked up" when the cameras cut to her.

Oh well, they can't get everything right. It is The X Factor after all. 

Read more: http://www.rollingstone.com/movies/videos/x-factor-finale-recap-alex-and-sierra-win-season-three-20131220#ixzz2o2miXAGv 

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Ten jobs Justin Bieber could do if he quits music

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Justin Bieber Photo: Getty Images

Justin Bieber has told an American radio station, rather dubiously, that he's quitting the music industry after he finishes his next album.

"After the new album, I'm actually retiring, man. I'm retiring," he told Power 106 FM in Southern California on Tuesday.

Some were quick to call it a Christmas miracle, while others went into mourning.

But it is possible that it was just a publicity stunt for his film Believe, which premiered in Los Angeles on Monday, and his new album, which goes on sale on December 23. A source told E! News: "Of course it's not true."

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It's certainly not the first time Bieber has given cause for upset, with the 19-year-old busily cementing his bad-boy image all year. The singer made headlines by covering himself in tattoos, allegedly cavorting with Brazilian prostitutes and using illicit substances.

During his recent visit to Australia, he was photographed spraying graffiti on the wall of a Queensland hotel, and was reportedly spotted at Kings Cross strip club Bada Bing.

But should his retirement go ahead, Bieber will need to find a new way to earn a living. Here are 10 possible options for future occupations:

1. Motivational speaker

Bieber is already known for his motivational slogans and song lyrics. He is used to performing in front of huge sell-out crowds, so would have no trouble becoming a successful motivational speaker. He already asks his fans to believe in themselves, and sings such lyrics as:

"I will never say never (I will fight)

I will fight till forever (make it right)

Whenever you knock me down

I will not stay on the ground."

During the interview in which he revealed his imminent retirement, he also said: "Never say never - everyone can live their dream." 

2. Graffiti remover

The star has recently taken to spraying graffiti, tagging walls in Brisbane, Los Angeles and Colombia. But although he has used his skills for a good cause, his work is considered less than satisfactory by professional artists. As such, he may find a more lucrative career in removing street art, as he was instructed - and refused - to do in Queensland. 

3. Selling his Twitter followers

One of the most popular celebrities on Twitter, Bieber boasts more than 47 million followers. If he retires from music, he will surely have no need for so many and would undoubtedly tire of constant tweets from Beliebers, begging him to sing once more. He could make a quick fortune by selling his many followers off to other Twitter accounts.

4. Topless DJ

It is widely known that Bieber loves being shirtless. Be it on the beach or in concert, he is probably shirtless more often than clothed. Should he choose to remain in the music industry despite retiring from singing, the perfect solution would be to become a topless DJ. That way he could show off his ripped abs while playing the music he wants to hear in a club - with nobody telling him otherwise. 

5. Pro basketball player

It's no secret that Bieber is a very good basketball player, having shown off his skills against professional players, as well as celebrity friends. As a professional player, Bieber could stay in the public eye and earn an enviable annual income, but with his feet on the court - not the stage.

6. Rally car driver

Bieber owns a large fleet of luxury cars. However, he has been reprimanded many times for speeding, reckless driving and other offences. What better way to combine his love for cars with driving fast and earning money than to become a rally car driver?

7. Rodeo clown

For a man who loves crowds, being the centre of attention and risky behaviour, a rodeo clown would be a great occupation for Bieber. It would be a great way to keep fit, as speed and agility are required skills. Also, rodeo clowns traditionally wear baggy clothing which can also be outlandish and colourful - the kind of attire Bieber is no stranger to.

8. Guestbook attendant at the Anne Frank House

Bieber was widely criticised when he visited the Anne Frank House in Amsterdam this year, after his guestbook entry was published: "Truly inspiring to be able to come here. Anne was a great girl. Hopefully she would have been a belieber." Were he a guestbook attendant at the house, he could learn more about Anne Frank and her story, and understand why his comment led to such an uproar.

9. Archbishop

Despite his many controversial antics, Bieber has always maintained that he is a man of faith, devoted to Christianity. He has a tattoo featuring a biblical passage and earlier this year, told Teen Vogue that he was not only here "because I'm talented, but because God had a purpose for me to just help people". He could decide that spreading the word of his Lord, rather than his own words, is a more fulfilling way to continue his life.

10. Skydiving instructor

In June, Bieber was banned from an indoor skydiving centre in Las Vegas. He allegedly arrived just before closing, behaved disrespectfully and offered to post an Instagram photo as payment, which he failed to do. If he learnt to be an instructor, he could skydive as often as he liked, choose his own hours and behave however he pleased.

Read more: http://www.smh.com.au/entertainment/music/ten-jobs-justin-bieber-could-do-if-he-quits-music-20131219-2zn95.html#ixzz2nwxf8Gwm

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Toys, Lego

LEGO Christmas tree decks the halls at St. Pancras Station

• By Dan Sung Follow on Twitter

 

• 7 December 2011

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The world's largest ever LEGO Christmas tree is now standing on the concourse at St. Pancras Station, London for the public to enjoy.
Consisting of approximately 400,000 individual bricks and requiring a steel frame to support its three-tonne-weight, the tree was constructed by the UK's only certified LEGO professional, Duncan Titchmarsh, and his team at Bright Bricks - a company which specialises in creating giant LEGO commissions.
It's currently standing on the bottom level of the station, beneath the champagne bar, but its enormous height means that its branches break through to the gallery level with the star beyond and towards the roof.

The tree shatters the previous LEGO Christmas tree record of 9m and will be in place until the 2 January 2012 when, presumably, Duncan, Albi and Ed will have to spend another three nights between 10pm and 4am taking it down. Alternatively, it's probably quicker to set a couple of toddlers on the thing who'll doubtless have it down in no time.
If you fancy something like this for your office or party, then it seems Bright Bricks will manage just about anything. Their previous work includes a 1.7m long Concorde, a life-size house, a Banksy mural and, for their sins, a portrait of James May.

LEGO Christmas tree decks

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The Mentalist Season 6: a revelation, a start and a new life

The Mentalist Season 6 will land soon on TF1. It will however take his sickness patiently and enjoy the reruns .

The Mentalist Season 6 is widely expected by the French , especially those who watched Tuesday, Dec. 17 the final episode of season 5 . Indeed, TF1 unveiled the traditional final season and he will now have to be patient , because the diffusion of season 6 will not be immediate especially on French soil . In view of the habits of the chain, the followers of Simon Baker could see new episodes from autumn 2014, but until they can follow the adventures of Patrick Jane via the revelations of some sites. Indeed, CBS offers yet the famous mid-season break , the first episodes have been broadcast and on 5 January , the chain will resume broadcast of The Mentalist Season 6 with a new plot.

The Mentalist Season 6 is experiencing a rebound

In The Mentalist Season 6 , Simon Baker aka Patrick Jane get the most anticipated for many months revelation. [ Warning Spoilers ] It will finally know Red John as briefly unveiled before him. Time will be long enough , however, that the series can finally turn the page. Note that a list of suspects will be given by Patrick Jane , but from the first episode name will be removed and a second will be removed in episode 4 . The Mentalist Season 6 was a turning point with episode 8 as the long-awaited showdown will finally take place . After the discovery , there will be a start in The Mentalist Season 6 . Simon Baker aka Patrick Jane wants a break in his career since he solved his greatest puzzle. So he leaves the CBI and the organization will thus set aside then dismantled.

Life change for Lisbon and Patrick

After the discovery and departure , we will follow the new life of Patrick Jane . It invites you to discover in episode 9 and it should be noted that a jump in time will be offered ( two years). A new story will be proposed as the character will land in the premises of the FBI , but ask some conditions. Followers will surely wonder whether Lisbon will always be by his side. The answer is yes as Patrick Jane can not evolve without this character. However, their path will be chaotic and Lisbon find Simon Baker after a stay behind bars and some problems that have littered his daily life. The Mentalist Season 5 has met for the last episode nearly 8 million people in France . Hearings are very good and viewers must now wait until next year to discover new adventures of Simon Baker .

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