Hot News

Sudden Resignation Stuns University of Alabama Basketball

2009-01-26T15:23:00.000-08:00

The University of Alabama's head men's basketball coach, Mark Gottfried, has resigned effective immediately. This is the word from UA Director of Athletics Mal Moore. The Crimson Tide assistant men's basketball coach Philip Pearson will take over as interim coach until further notice.
"My number one priority is to do what is best for the University of Alabama, this basketball program, and these young men," Gottfried said. "Mal and I sat down today and we talked. At that point, I notified him of my intention to resign as head coach of the men's basketball program. I am extremely grateful to have had the opportunity and the privilege to lead our men's basketball program at Alabama for the past 10 and a half seasons. It has been a wonderful decade for me and my family, and I love the University of Alabama, but I feel that it is in the best interests of everyone involved. I want to thank our players, their families, our coaching staff and their families, and our great fans for all of their support over these last 11 seasons."
"I accepted Coach Gottfried's resignation," Moore said. "I respect Mark's decision and will begin immediately working on a permanent replacement. I agreed with him that it is in the best interests of the men's basketball program for us to move in a different direction. I want to extend my sincerest best wishes to Mark and his family, along with my personal thanks to Mark for his many years of dedicated service to our men's basketball program. "Out of respect for our players, I will make no further comment on Coach Gottfried's decision. I want to extend my complete support to our players and our coaching staff, which will be headed by interim head coach Philip Pearson. We fully expect them to compete hard the rest of this season and I ask our loyal fans to rally in support of these coaches and players over the coming weeks of SEC play. "Our process towards finding a new head coach will begin immediately. Out of respect for our players and coaches, I will not comment on the progress of our search until it has concluded."
Gottfried was named head coach at Alabama on March 25, 1998, and compiled a record of 210-131 (.616 winning percentage) with the Crimson Tide, including a mark of 83-82 in Southeastern Conference (SEC) games, winning one SEC regular season championship and leading the team to five NCAA Tournament appearances. He joined the Crimson Tide after three seasons as head coach at Murray State (Ky.) where he compiled a record of 68-24 while leading the Racers to three Ohio Valley Conference championships (1995, 1996, and 1997) and three NCAA Tournament appearances. Gottfried's career record stands at 278-155 for a winning percentage of .642 in 14 seasons as a college head coach.
Gottfried, a 1987 Alabama graduate, played guard for the Crimson Tide for three seasons (1984-85, 1985-86, and 1986-87) while starting 98 consecutive games for then-head coach Wimp Sanderson after starting his college career at Oral Roberts University (1982-83 season).
No word yet on the reason for this sudden departure. Stay tuned for more facts on this developing story.

Happy New Year! It's The Year Of The Ox

2009-01-26T04:55:00.000-08:00

Today, January 26, 2009 is a very special day in the Chinese lunar calendar - it is Chinese New Year! This tradition, celebrated for thousands of years, is marked by 12 Chinese Zodiac Animals, celebrated in a 12 year cycle. As legend has it, they respond to an invitation from the Buddha to meet him on the new year.This year it is the Year of The Ox.
According to Chinese lore, the Ox represents a solid, hardworking and steadfast individual. So if you were born in 1913, 1925, 1937, 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, or 2009, you are said to carry these traits.
Some interesting facts about Chinese New Year:It is also know as Spring Festival, it is the lunar new year and falls on the first day of the first month of the Chinese lunar calendar.The festival is 15 days long and requires certain visits to family members on certain days.It is a major holiday in China and people make changes ahead of the new year to welcome it, including cleaning house and cutting their hair. Certain foods such as Mandarin oranges, uncut noodles and melon seeds are eaten to bring wealth, health, happiness and good luck to the family.Festivities include dragon dances, during which loud drums and cymbals are said to ward off evil spirits.For good luck, people open windows and doors, turn on night lights, wear new slippers, clean house and eat sweets.To avoid bad luck, they do not say certain words that in Chinese sound like bad things such as death and loss.
The Chinese Zodiac Symbols, their traits and recent years are:
Rat: quick-witted, clever, charming

1912, 1924, 1936, 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008

Ox: steadfast, solid, hard-working

1913, 1925, 1937, 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009

Tiger: authoritative, self-possessed, charming

1914, 1926, 1938, 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998

Rabbit: popular, compassionate, sincere

1915, 1927, 1939, 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999

Dragon: energetic, warm-hearted, charismatic

1916, 1928, 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000

Snake: seductive, gregarious, generous

1917, 1929, 1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001

Horse: energetic, self-reliant, money-wise

1918, 1930, 1942, 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002

Goat: creative, wandering, unorganized

1919, 1931, 1943, 1955, 1967, 1979, 1991, 2003

Monkey: upbeat, good at listening, lacking self-control

1920, 1932, 1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004

Rooster: practical, resourceful, observant

1921, 1933, 1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005

Dog: faithful, honest, distrustful

1910, 1922, 1934, 1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006

Pig: extremely nice, good-mannered and tasteful

1911, 1923, 1935, 1947, 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007

Happy New Year! If you were born in the year of the Ox, you're probably hard at work!

Tsonga Forces Blake Out In Australia

2009-01-26T04:21:00.000-08:00

The laest new at the Australian Open is the number 5 seed Jo-Tsonga, the losing finalist last year, defeated the number 9 seed, James Blake of the United States, 6-4 6-4 7-6 (7-3) in two hours and 24 minutes. Blake's unforced errors caused him big time.
Tsonga is from France and his official name is Wilfried Tsonga Petsonga. He was born in LeMans on April 17, 1985. His best career high ranking of No. 7 was achieved on November 17, 2008, which is his current ranking. He is the number one tennis player from France.
James Riley Blake was born in Yonkers, N.Y. on December 28, 1979. He is currently the second highest ranked American, 9th in the world. Blake is known for his speed and powerful, flat forehand. He reached the final of the 2006 Tennis Masters Cup but lost to the then World No. 1 Roger Federer in straight sets, 6–0, 6–3, 6–4.
Tsonga next plays Fernando Verdasco, who produced the upset of the men's singles draw by knocking No.4 seed Andy Murray out of the tournament.

Miss Indiana - Katie Stam Wins The 2009 Miss America Pageant

2009-01-24T18:17:00.000-08:00

Tonight was the night. The 2009 Miss America Pageant was crowned live from the Planet Hollywood Resort and Casino in Las Vegas tonight. 52 women competed in the 87th annual pageant, hosted by Mario Lopez.

The winner was Miss Indiana - Katie Stam

The final 12 contestants (in random order) were:
Miss Georgia - Chasity Hardman
Miss Indiana - Katie Stam
Miss Michigan - Ashlee Baracy
Miss Arkansas - Ashlen Batson
Miss Hawaii - Nicole Fox
Miss DC - Katie Marie Grinold
Miss Iowa - Olivia Myers
Miss New York - Leigh Taylor Smith
Miss California - Jackie Geist
Miss Florida - Sierra Minott
Miss Kentucky - Emily Cox
Miss Tennessee - Ellen Carrington

What was unique about this year's Miss America Pageant is that the final four four contestants where voted directly into the pageants finals by viewer of Miss America "Countdown to the Crown."
A Miss pageant has always been and will probably continue to be considered the ultimate event celebrating beauty, by crowning only one woman who fits certain standards and who is, thus, the epitome of everything a woman should represent. Nevertheless, the Preliminaries for the Miss America Pageant have revealed the ascent of a new type of woman: slender is out, beefy is in.
“The Miss America pageant 2009 was expected to be the fiercest fight in history, contested almost exclusively by Amazonian gym buddies with seriously sculpted figures - and it lived up to expectations. The swimsuit segment of the show in the heats at the Planet Hollywood resort in Las Vegas confirmed that a new breed of female athletes are going for glory, a far cry from the very natural looking girls-next-door who have competed down the 80 years of the competition’s history.
The girls were not only seriously in top shape, they were seemingly competing for the title of the fittest ever, as the swimsuit competition for the Preliminaries has showed. There were no more slender, delicate-looking bodies as there were in the past years, having now been replaced by fitness trainer arms, clearly delineated abdominal muscles, and legs that would make even the most dedicated jogger bow their head in shame.
Nevertheless, fans of the long-running competition were shown a fun time, especially since they were able to take part in deciding the most beautiful girl by placing their votes. “America’s going to have a much greater impact than they’ve ever had before. We thought it would be great to really make the whole scheme of the reality show about America getting to know these women and letting them focus in on the women they would vote in to the finals.” Brent Zackey, vice president for production and development at TLC, explained.
The first Miss America Pageant was held in 1921 to promote Atlantic City, New Jersey and was a part of the glitz and glamour of the famed boardwalk until 2005, when it was announced that Las Vegas would be the new home of Miss America.
Miss America premiered on the new medium - television! - in 1954. The following year, legendary host Bert Parks added his showmanship and singing voice to the event. He would host the Miss America Pageant for the next twenty five years, and for a generation of pageant fans his rendition of "There she is, Miss America..." became closely identified with the beautiful women who walked the runway wearing the Miss America crown.

Geron Gets Green Lignt On Human Stem-Cell Trials

2009-01-23T05:19:00.001-08:00

Geron Corp (stock symbol GERN) said today that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has given the company approval for it to start trials for what it says is the world's first study of a human embryonic stem cell-based therapy for people. Geron said it will begin a Phase I multicenter trial designed to establish the safety of its treatment, currently referred to as "GRNOPC1," in patients with complete Grade A subacute thoracic spinal cord injuries.

The trials will allow Geron to inject 8 to 10 patients with cells derived from embryonic cells. The recipients will be paraplegics. They will receive a single injection within two weeks of them suffering this particular injury. Research is expected to occur in a handful of medical centers across the nation.

The trials are said to be a milestone and will delve into the benefits and limitations of using embryonic stem cells on spinal cord injuries.

Embryonic stem cells can develop into any cell of the body, and scientists have long hoped to harness them for creating replacement tissues to treat a variety of diseases. But research has been controversial because embryos must be destroyed to obtain them.

The granting of this clinical trial may be a indication of things to come. President Barack Obama has promised to relax the Bush administration's restrictions on federal financing for such research. In fact, Obama has mentioned that science needs to be put back where it should be.

Based on animal testing using embryonic stem cells, researchers are hoping to inject the cells in the spine. As they mature, they expect it to repair damaged nerves and provide substances that nerves need to function and grow.

Scientists Trick Eels With Phenomenal Pheromone

2009-01-20T08:02:00.000-08:00

The introduction of the sea lamprey in the Great Lakes has been decimating the recreational fishing industry on the Great Lakes for over 100 years. But now US researchers are using the chemicals in the male lamprey to lure ovulating females into traps.
The trickery being performed is seen as a breakthrough technique for controlling the non-native lamprey.
"There's been extensive study of pheromones in animals and even in humans," said lead researcher Weiming Li from Michigan State University in East Lansing, US. It was one of the worst things to hit the Great Lakes in the history of European settlement
"But most researchers have presumed that as animals get more complex, their behaviour is regulated in a more complex way, not by just one pheromone," he told BBC News.
The researchers, let by Professor Li, released the synthetic version of a lamprey hormone from a trap placed in a stream where lampreys come to breed.
Females scenting it would swim vigorously upstream until they found the source, some becoming trapped in the process.
The sea lamprey's natural life cycle takes it from birth in a stream to adulthood in the ocean, where it gains its vampirical appellation. Circular jaws lock on to another, larger fish, and a sharp tongue carves through its scales. From then on the lamprey feeds on the blood and body fluids of its temporary host, often killing it in the process. Eventually, the satiated lampreys - both males and females - find a suitable stream to swim up, breed and die.
In their native Atlantic Ocean, their numbers are controlled by predation; but in the Great Lakes they have no predators.
They first appeared in the 1800s after completion of the Erie Canal linking the lakes to New York. Colonization was completed a century later when other canals provided unfettered access to the upper lakes.
"It was one of the worst things to hit the Great Lakes in the history of European settlement," said Marc Gaden from the Great Lakes Fishery Commission (GLFC), the body responsible for controlling the lamprey problem.
"Before it, we had a thriving fishery largely dependent on native fish such as the lake trout... but by 1940 they had colonized thousands of streams and fishermen were beginning to see the devastation."
The techique will be expanded to streams and tributaries over the next three years

The Beast, Patrick Swayze Talks The Big C With Barbara Walters

2009-01-07T19:33:00.000-08:00

Patrick Swayze spills his guts to Barbara Walters tonight on ABC's one on one Special between Patrick Swayze and Barbara Walters. They talk about his Stage IV Pancreatic cancer and his chances of staying alive.
Barabara talks matter-of-fact to Patrick and asks him tough questions. Were you a smoker, are you still smoking, who told you you had pancreatic cancer, how was Chemotheraphy and are you trying alternative medicince?
In the interview you can hear the anger and fright in his demeanor as he responds to Barbara's questions.
Patrick Swayze has been married since 1975 to Lisa Niemi.
Swayze appeared on the ABC, NBC, and CBS simulcast of Stand Up to Cancer in September 2008, to appeal to the general public for donations for the initiative. Swayze said to a standing ovation, "I dream that the word 'cure' will no longer be followed by the words 'it's impossible'. Together we can make a world where cancer no longer means living with fear, without hope, or worse". After the show ended, Swayze lingered onstage and talked to other cancer survivors; executive producer Laura Ziskin said, "He said a beautiful thing: 'I'm just an individual living with cancer.' That's how he wants to be thought of. He's in a fight, but he's a fighter".
Swayze, who starred in the films Dirty Dancing and Ghost, is now filming a new TV show called "The Beast", where he plays an undercover FBI agent in A&E Network’s drama pilot”.

Bill Clinton To Replace Hilliary As New York Senator

2009-01-01T20:11:00.001-08:00

It's the tactical and political right thing to do! Governor Patterson of New York should make the right decision and appoint former U.S President Bill Clinton to replace Hillary Clinton in her recently vacated New York state Senate seat. Why you might ask?
For one thing, the governor of New York can avoid any rumors of impropriety if he appointed political hungry candidates like Carolyn Kennedy, half a dozen members of Congress and Attorney General Andrew Cuomo, son of former New York Senator Mario Cuomo.
Another reason is that a big fish like former president Bill Clinton can have an immediate impact for New York in the Senate while the rest of the contentors get ready for the real battle in 2010, when re-elections are to occur.
Bill Clinton can become the "caretaker" of the Senate Seat and help New York and it's governor get down to work without having to worry about media inquiries into the appointment.
Gov. Patterson can avoid having to take sides in the controversial appointment that could damage his future political ambitions.
And finally, Mr. Patterson can avoid the media hype brought on by Illinois governor Rod Blagojevich of Attorney General Roland Burris to fill President-elect Barack Obama's vacant U.S. Senate seat. He can take the lead of Delaware Governor Ruth Ann Minner, who picked a former aide to Vice President-elect Joe Biden to succeed him Senate - John Carney. John Carney;s appointment makes sense because by the Senate run in 2010, Joe Biden's son Beau Biden will have returned from a tour in Iraq with the National Guard and be ready to run for the seat.
But the question is, would Bill Clinton accept the appointment? And, what would President-elect Obama think? Nothing is for sure with the Clintons. Who expected them to move to New York in the first place and who have expected that Bill Clinton open an office in Harlem? As for Obama, experts think he would bless the move.
Anyway, stayed tuned! The Senate replacement sagas continue!

Dick Clark Rings In His Last New Year!

2008-12-31T23:05:00.000-08:00

Dick Clark has done it again! Four years after a stroke, Dick Clark appeared for another New Year's Eve celebration, his 36th year in Times Square.
Clark, who turned 79 last month and has been in front of the cameras for 61 years, said in a recent interview by e-mail that his involvement in "Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin' Eve with Ryan Seacrest 2009," diminished though it may be, is a labor of love and "not really a job."
"Obviously, I'm not able to be as actively involved as I used to be out on the street, up on a platform and interacting with the crowds in Times Square" in New York, Clark wrote. "Thank goodness my friend Ryan Seacrest is able to handle that end of the activity on the show these days.
ABC-TV's 3 1/2-hour live extravaganza features performances by Natasha Bedingfield, Fall Out Boy, Jesse McCartney, Ne-Yo, Pussycat Dolls, Solange and Robin Thicke. Fergie hosts the Hollywood segments.
Clark woke up with right-side paralysis on Dec. 6, 2004 — "Your life changes overnight," he said. (Regis Philbin filled in for Clark on the New Year's Eve show that year.) Clark still uses a walker or wheelchair, and speaking is difficult.
"I am one of the fortunate ones who survived and have been minimally impaired, so I'm just thankful I'm still able to enjoy this once-a-year treat of bringing in the New Year."
"There was a time when they attracted a huge audience," Clark wrote. "The audiences have dropped off as the years have gone by because of increasing television competition.
"What we are seeing is more and more talent and less emphasis on people getting awards. Television's award shows have now become gigantic showcases for variety."
Clark was there at the birth of rock 'n' roll ("American Bandstand" kicked off July 9, 1956), and he's watched dramatic changes in the music industry. Not that those changes would come as much of a surprise.
"I can remember writing an article several years ago where I let my imagination run wild," Clark wrote. "I said we'd see the day when music is delivered directly to our homes, and delivered to us in some form of wireless communication.
"The fun of actually holding a record in our hands will disappear and we'll all have our own individual library of our favorite songs that we'll listen to at home, at work, in the car wherever we happen to go."
These days, Clark divides his time between his Malibu home and Burbank office. There's an hourlong therapy session each morning, then he answers mail and phone calls, attends meetings and reads.
The day ends with his devoted wife Kari.

Top 7 New Year Resolutions For 2009

2008-12-31T01:33:00.000-08:00

It's not difficult to figure out the top New Year's resolution for 2009. In fact, most of them fit the economic times ahead. So here the top 7 New Year's resolutions for 2009 in America.

1. Do more quality work on the job
With the economy the way it is, people don't want to lose their jobs. And the best way to save your job is to put in a better effort at work.

2. Spend more time at home
This makes sense. Most of us are looking to save money and spend less. So the obvious thing to do is to spend more time at home with family which saves you money and brings you back to the things that have real meaning.

3. Get in shape
Many of us are looking to get back in shape from the holiday feasting. We also want to look good in the Spring. One thing is many of us will be working out at home - saving money on gym membership fees.

4. Eat Healthy
We all want to live a little longer but we need to find a diet plan that works

5. Look to save money
The economy is a prominent theme this year. Folks will look to save money any way they can. Some ideas include growing your own vegetables, building your own greenhouse or saving money on energy at home.

6. Become Green Friendly
This will be the main theme of Barack Obama's first presidential term. He will be pushing the "green" envelope and expect all Americans to become greener

7. Eat Out Less
Again, with the economy - it's a no-brainer

2009 looks to be a tough year for all of America. Things will get worse before they get better. The tightening of budgets is definitely the central theme for New Year's resolutions this year

Polar Ice Sheets Are Following The Economy Down The Drain

2008-12-16T23:21:00.001-08:00

Not only is the economy going down the drain, so are the glaciers at the North and South Poles. According to NASA scientists between 1.5 trillion and 2 trillion tons of ice in Greenland, Antarctica and Alaska has melted at an accelerating rate since 2003. A tell tale sign that global warming is heating up.

NASA geophysicist Scott Lutchke estimates that the amount of ice lost in 2003 would fill Chesapeake Bay more than 20 times.

"The ice tells us in a very real way how the climate is changing," said Luthcke, who will present his findings this week at the American Geophysical Union conference in San Francisco, California.

NASA's Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment, or GRACE, mission uses two orbiting satellites to measure the "mass balance" of a glacier, or the net annual difference between ice accumulation and ice loss.

"A few degrees of change [in temperature] can increase the amount of mass loss, and that contributes to sea level rise and changes in ocean current," Luthcke said.

According to the report, in the past five years, Greenland has lost between 150 gigatons and 160 gigatons each year, (one gigaton equals one billion tons) or enough to raise global sea levels about .5 mm per year, said Zwally, who will also present his findings at the conference this week.

"Every few extra inches of sea level have very significant economic impacts, because they change the sea level, increase flooding and storm damage," said, Zwally, ICESat Project Scientist. "It's a warning sign."

Melting ice, especially in Greenland and the Arctic, is also thought to contribute to global warming, Zwally said. When the vast ice sheets and glaciers melt, they lose their reflective power, and instead, oceans and land absorb the heat, causing the Arctic waters and the atmosphere to warm faster.

In the 1990s, Greenland took in as much snow and water as it let out, Zwally said. But now, about 15 years later, sea levels are rising about 50 percent faster, making the global climate situation even more unpredictable.

"The best estimates are that sea levels will rise about 18 to 36 inches by the end of the century, but because of what's going on and how fast things are changing, there's a lot of uncertainty," he said.

This is a wakeup call to all mankind. It's time for action - not discussion.

Bonus Checks Arrive For Dallas School Employees

2008-12-16T06:55:00.000-08:00

It seems that the checks are here! More than 1,200 Dallas public school employees received bonuses in their monthly paychecks today, the first ones handed out through a new effort to reward workers for boosting student achievement.

The bonuses ranged from several hundred dollars for non-classroom workers to $10,000 for teachers whose students posted notable academic gains last school year.

Workers at 59 pilot schools were eligible for the federally-funded awards. Over all, an estimated 1,200 workers received a collective $3.2 million for their efforts last school year

What a perfect time for the extra cash - wouldn't you say!

Frankly Speaking, Gay Frank Screams About The Auto Bailout

2008-12-14T18:39:00.000-08:00

In a 60 minutes interview with Lesley Stahl, Barney Frank, the Democratic congressman was asked what his thoughts are on the auto industry bailout. Frank responded "There's only one thing you can do in bankruptcy: break your word, break your deals. It allows you to say to the small businesses, who have been catering lunches for you, 'Sorry, we're not paying you.' It allows you to go to the workers and say, 'Sorry, we're not paying you.'"
Barney Frank has been called the "smartest guy in Congress" and his record speaks for itself. He is a 14-term, 68 year-old Harvard-educated chairman of the House Financial Services Committee. He is also a gay liberal who has never been known to back down from an argument.
During the interview he stated "I'm antisocial, there's no question about it. I think that I love this job. But the biggest problem is there are thousands of people in Washington who earn a living by trying to waste my time. They repeat themselves. They ask you stupid questions." Barney can be sharp-tongued: a master of the putdown, and a master of the dress-down.
He has been at the center of both the $700-billion dollar rescue for financial institutions, and the bailout attempt for the car companies that failed in the Senate.
Barney has been a major player in pressuring Treasury Secretary Henry Paulson to deal with home foreclosures, and negotiating with the White House on the loan for GM and Chrysler.
Barney Frank may not be liked many Republicans or discrimminating Americans but he serves his position well and doesn't back down from expressing his thoughts and trying to do what feels is right for America.
Frank complains about a lack of leadership during the financial crisis. "Part of the problem now is that this presidential transition has come at the very worst possible time," Frank says. "We saw it coming. I don't know if there was any way to avoid it. You know ... Senator Obama has said, 'We only have one president at a time.' Well, that overstates the number of presidents we have at this time. We don't appear to have any."
You haven't heard the last of him about the financial crisis. It will be interesting to see how he deals with the new administration.

Convictions And Inquiries, Now Madoff, OH MY!

2008-12-11T16:58:00.000-08:00

What is going on? It seems that everywhere you look, where ever you turn; politicians, sports stars and securites firm executives are being convicted, arrested or being indicted on crimes
In the last two weeks we had O.J. Simpson convicted of several felonies including kidnapping and armed robbery., Plaxico Burress of the New York Giants was arrested for an unregistered firearm (he shot himself in the thigh). Governor Rod Blagojevich was arrested for trying to sell Obama's Senate Seat and Charles Rangel, chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee is being investigated by the House Ethics Committe for Off-Shore Tax Shelters.
And now the latest - Bernard L. Madoff, the founder of Bernard L. Madoff Investment Securities and a former chairman of the Nasdaq Stock Market, was arrested today by FBI agents and charged with a $50-billion criminal securities fraud.
The Wall Street Journal reported late Thursday that charges against Madoff allege that he told senior employees on Wednesday that the firm was "a giant Ponzi scheme" after trying to distribute the "couple of hundred million dollars" he had left before turning himself in, according to the Journal, citing a person familiar with the matter. The alleged scheme involved tens of billions of dollars.
Is there something in the air? Is the economy? Is there any rhyme or reason to these events? We will probably never know.
But what we do know is that it will probably continue. As investigating expand on the open cases, there is a good possibility that other rich, famous and powerful individuals will face the same fate.

Nothing surprises me anymore!

2008 Aggie 100 Honored

2008-12-09T08:33:00.000-08:00

Texas A&M alumni has an annual "Aggie 100" list that lists the top 100 fastest-growing companies owned and operated by former Texas A and M students. The Internet Truckstop in New Plymouth and D&S Factors in Fruitland are among the firms selected for the fourth annual “Aggie 100” list.
The program is sponsored by Mays Business School’s Center for New Ventures and Entrepreneurship. Internet Truckstop was recognized as No. 82 on the list, while D&S Factors was recognized as No. 3 on the list.
The company, Internet Truckstop, provides more than 140,000 users across North America with access to the largest database of load and truck availability on the Internet.
In addition it provides the most comprehensive credit information on freight brokers and shippers as well as performance ratings for more than 40,000 trucking fleets. It also supplies freight rate index information and rate trending tools to more than 6,000 transportation companies.
Founded in 1995 by Texas A&M graduate Scott Moscrip, Internet Truckstop has risen to the position of market leader when it comes to transportation information services for the North American trucking industry.
“We are very excited to be recognized as an Aggie 100 company,” Moscrip said. “This is the second year in a row that we have been honored to be included as on of the fastest growing companies in America. Not only do we have Internet Truckstop on the list, our sister company, literally run by my sister, Diana Clover, D&S Factors, is also on this list.”
The 100 companies with the highest compound annual revenue growth from 2005 to 2007 were recognized at a formal luncheon at The Zone Club at Texas A&M University’s Kyle Field Oct. 31. The honorees are also featured in the November 2008 issue of Texas Aggie published by The Association of Former Students.
“Texas A&M is proud of making the Aggie 100 an annual event to celebrate Aggies who have gone on to create businesses that are thriving not only in the U.S., but also around the world,” Richard Scruggs, Director of the Mays Business School’s Center for New Ventures and Entrepreneurship, said.
Companies were required to meet the following criteria: In business for five years or more as of June 30, 2008; verifiable revenues of $100,000 or more for calendar year 2005, and operations consistent with the Aggie Code of Honor.

Go Nuts With The Mediterranean Diet

2008-12-08T20:13:00.000-08:00

Bloomberg reports that a Mediterranean diet plus a daily serving of nuts may lower stomach fat and blood pressure in older adults at risk for heart disease, a Spanish study found.

The prevalence of patients who had metabolic syndrome, which includes a large waistline, high cholesterol and high blood pressure, decreased almost 14 percent after a year among those on the Mediterranean diet -- which is rich in fish and healthy fats -- plus mixed nuts. That compares with a 2 percent drop in those on a low-fat diet, according to research released today in the Archives of Internal Medicine.

Nuts contain nutrients that may affect insulin resistance, blood pressure and blood fats such as cholesterol. Studies have shown that eating nuts may protect against heart disease, the researchers said. A July report in the New England Journal of Medicine found that overweight people lost more pounds on a Mediterranean diet than did those on a diet low in fat.

“There are enough scientific evidences to recommend the Med diet over the low-fat diet for health outcomes,” said Emilio Ros, a doctor in endocrinology and nutrition service at the Hospital Clinic Barcelona, and an author of the study, in a e-mail on Dec. 5. “This study adds another piece of evidence to the abundant literature on the subject.”

A Mediterranean diet includes olive oil and oily fish such as salmon, and little red meat. The low-fat diet is rich in carbohydrates and low-fat dairy foods. Both diets encourage fruits and vegetables. Nuts are rich in fiber, potassium, the amino acid arginine, calcium and magnesium.

Metabolic syndrome is characterized by a large waistline, higher-than-normal levels of triglycerides, a type of fat found in the blood; lower than normal HDL, so-called good cholesterol; high blood pressure; and high blood sugar. The condition increases the risk of heart disease, diabetes and stroke, according to the National Institutes of Health. The syndrome is diagnosed when a person has at least three of the symptoms, according to the NIH.

The syndrome, rising with increases in obesity, affects about 25 percent of people in developed countries, and more than half of the older population, Ros said.

Researchers in the study looked at 1,224 patients, ages 55 to 80, who were at high risk for heart disease. The patients were divided into three groups. One received advice on a low-fat diet. The other two were educated about the Mediterranean diet.

One of the Mediterranean-diet groups was given 1 liter (33.8 ounces) a week of virgin olive oil. The other received 30 grams (1.06 ounces) a day of mixed nuts, half of which were walnuts and the rest almonds and hazelnuts.

The prevalence of metabolic syndrome decreased 6.7 percent in the group given the olive oil compared with 13.7 percent among those in the nut group, the study found.

Weight didn’t change among the participants after one year. Those on the Mediterranean diet plus nuts experienced more of a drop in waist size, triglycerides and blood pressure compared with those on the low-fat diet, Ros said.

Longer follow-up of the patients in the study is needed to confirm the benefits, the authors wrote.

According to Diet Right Evaluations the Mediterranean Diet is identified as one of the highest rated diet and healthy plans available on the planet.

So get ready early for your New Year's resolution by choosing a healthy weight loss plan that is effective and highly rated by consumers who have applied this dietary approach to weight loss.

What Is a Schnabel?

2008-12-07T18:51:00.000-08:00

Julian Schnabel is the film director who gained rave reviews for his recent works, particulary for is most recent masterpiece called "The Diving Bell and the Butterfly." Julian is also an accomplished and highly controversial one American painter, with both critics and avid followers.
Julian has helped his own career by having a knack for attracting attention to himself. He is a poster boy for the "me generation", who likes to party in pajamas - an out of the closet Hugh Hefner. His is so full of himself, you either love him or hate him.
One of his large paintings, according to Schnabel, sells for around a million dollars. His art works have made him a wealthy man with real estate in Montauk, Long Island and a palazza in Greenwich Village (NYC).
According to interview to air on 60 minutes, the Greenwich Village palazzo - known as the pink palace - is his base of operations. Outside, there are 360 degrees of killer views. Inside, touring the place with him, you feel like Gulliver in the land of the giants, surrounded by huge sculptures, 20-foot high ceilings, and Schnabel paintings that are both larger than life and larger than some New York apartments.
The living room is dominated by one of his favorite works, a painting of a girl's head. It's one of a dozen similar big girls Schnabel has painted in recent years, all of them inspired by a small amateur painting he found in a junk shop years ago.
"My father said to me, 'How come you painted her eyes out?' And I said, 'So you look at her chin,'" Schnabel remembers.
What's it all about? As Schnabel well knows, explaining art can be an elusive and treacherous pursuit.
He's constantly on the prowl for new surfaces, painting on old tarpaulins, rugs, and velvet. His current passion is for a stash of old navigation charts that seem to say to him "color me purple."
"I probably paint like a jazz musician. I know where to begin, but I don't really have necessarily an idea of how the thing's going to turn out. And I'm sort of leaning toward a divine light. And I think maybe it'll hit me, maybe it won't. But in making a movie, it’s the same thing," he told Safer.
Divine light or earthly savvy, there's no questioning his success as a filmmaker: his movies were nominated for five Oscars, and he himself won top prizes at the Golden Globes and the Cannes Film Festival.
"I thought I was too old to be a movie director. But once I was doing that, Dennis Hopper was on the set. He said, 'Looks like you’ve been doin' this for 40 years,'" Schnabel remembers.
There was "Basquiat," the tragic biography of the young artist who died of a toxic mix of drugs at age 28, a victim of the overheated New York art world of the 1980’s, a culture Schnabel knew firsthand.
"Before Night Falls" was an uncompromising portrait of the persecuted Cuban novelist Reinaldo Arenas, who died of AIDS, believing that writing was the best revenge.
"The Diving Bell and the Butterfly" is a true and compelling story about a French man-about-town suddenly imprisoned by a rare and almost total paralysis.
Making the films, Schnabel quickly developed his own method for working with actors: short on rehearsal, long on improvisation. "My technique is, you throw everybody in a hole and if they can climb out, you go home at the end of the day - and that includes me," he explains.
What if they don't "climb" out?
"If they don’t, then the movie dies," Schnabel tells Safer.
Now that he has taken Hollywood by storm you can expect to hear from a lot more from this talented, but egotistical man.

Bengals Suspend Star Receiver Hours Before Tonights NFL Game

2008-11-20T14:57:00.001-08:00

According to various sources, Chad Johnson was suspended by the Cincinnati Bengals for tonight's Thursday's National Football League game against Pittsburgh for an unspecified violation of team rules.
The surprise announcement came just hours ago as Johnson was getting ready for the game. The Bengals management has not disclosed the violation but you can bet the scoop will be out very soon.
Johnson, who has caught 41 passes for 383 yards and four touchdowns, will likely be replaced by Chris Henry opposite T.J. Houshmandzadeh for the Bengals, who had already lost receiver Antonio Chatman for the season to a back injury.
The benching is the latest in an odd year for Johnson, who demanded to be traded in April and threatened to sit out the entire 2008 season, then came to a training camp and underwent right ankle surgery to remove bone spurs.
Johnson, 30, dislocated his left shoulder in a pre-season exhibition but started the team's opener against Baltimore, before which he declared he would legally change his name to Chad Ocho Cinco - Spanish for his jersey number 85.
Johnson has had more than 1,000 receiving yards in each of the past six seasons but that run, like his consecutive games streak, appears to be over.

Lean Cuisine Plastic Chicken Meal Recall

2008-11-18T12:15:00.000-08:00

How much do like the Lean Cuisine frozen meals? How much do you like eating plastic?

Well, Utah-based Nestle Prepared Foods Company has recalled three varieties of frozen Lean Cuisine chicken meals, two of which were distributed in Oregon.

It has been discovered that these entrees might contain small pieces of bright blue plastic, a high health risk, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service. Those meals are: Pesto Chicken with Bow Tie Pasta, Chicken Mediterranean and Chicken Tuscan, all produced between August 18 to October 27 and distributed to retail establishments nationwide.

The recall of roughly 1.2 million packages of food impacts Oregon shoppers who bought the products at Portland-area Albertsons stores and Clackamas Safeway stores.

One item -- the Pesto Chicken with Bow Tie Pasta, production code "8280595912" marked "Best Before MAY 2010" -- was not sold in Oregon, according to Nestle spokeswoman Roz O'Hearn.
But the other items were sold in Oregon.

Lean Cuisine Chicken Mediterranean, production code "8231595912" or "8241595912" marked "Best before SEP 2010"; production code "8263595912," "8269595911" or "8274595912," marked "Best before OCT 2010"; and production code "8291595912" or "8301595912" marked "Best before NOV 2010," were distributed locally at Albertsons in Portland and Safeways in Clackamas.
Lean Cuisine Chicken Tuscan, production code "8234595911" and marked "Best before SEP 2009"; production code "8253595911" or "8269595912" and marked "Best before OCT 2009"; and production code of "8292595911" or "8296595911" and marked "Best before NOV 2009," were distributed to Safeways in Clackamas.

Each package bears the USDA mark of inspection as well as the establishment number "EST P-9018."

Consumers with questions about the recall should contact Nestle Consumer Services Center at (800) 993-8625 or call the company's dedicated recall line at (800) 227-6188.

Philadelphia Eagle Baskett To Wed Girl Next Store

2008-11-07T04:40:00.000-08:00

It looks like Hugh Hefners' harem is breaking up? Is Hugh loosing his touch? No, not at all. But according to US Magazine, Holly Madison, is now Hugh's ex and Kendra Wilkinson, a former Hugh-ex, are both rumored to be moving out of his palatial mansion. Kendra and Holly both star in the Girls Next Door.

And according to Access Hollywood, Kendra is engaged to a wide receiver from the Philadelphia Eagles Hank Baskett.

Baskett got down on his knees on the rooftop restaurant Space Needle in Seattle and proposed to Kendra. Baskett was in Seattle to play the Seattle Seahawks.

"Kendra Wilkinson has met someone who she would like to spend the rest of her life with," Hefner told the magazine's Web site in a statement. "He popped the question last Saturday. I have given her my blessing and will be giving her away at a very special wedding ceremony at the Playboy Mansion this coming June."

According to E!, Baskett popped the question to Wilkinson atop Seattle's Space Needle last weekend, where the Eagles played the Seattle Seahawks. Both families were there for the big event, E! reports.

But don't cry for Hef - he's already moved on to 19-year-old twins Karissa and Kristina Shannon.

Hank Baskett is in his third NFL season. He was acquired by the Philadelphia Eagles in 2006 in a trade with the Minnesota Vikings, He went to college at New Mexico He is 6-4, 220 pounds and is 27 years old.

Jurassic Park Author, Michael Crichton Dead of Cancer

2008-11-05T12:25:00.000-08:00

The author of Jurassic Park, Michael Crichton died of cancer today.

Michael Crichton, the bestselling author behind the fictional world of Jurassic Park, died today at the age of 66, after a battle with cancer that he hid from the public eye.

Crichton, was the author of more than a dozen best-selling novels. He also was the creator of ER, the popular medical drama series.

Michael died in Los Angeles, a statement from his family, posted on the writer’s website, said.

Describing his fight with cancer as “courageous and private”, the statement said: “While the world knew him as a great storyteller that challenged our preconceived notions about the world around us - and entertained us all while doing so - his family and friends knew Michael Crichton as a devoted husband, loving father and generous friend who inspired each of us to strive to see the wonders of our world through new eyes.

“He did this with a wry sense of humour that those who were privileged to know him personally will never forget.”

Michael was born in Chicago, Illinois and grew up in upstate New York. He graduated summa cum laude from Harvard University before tutoring at Cambridge University in anthropology and later registering at Harvard Medical School.

He actually started writing while he was in medical training. He penned "A Case of Need" under the pseudonym Jeffrey Hudson. He won the Mystery Writers of America’s Edgar Allan Poe Award, in 1968.

Crichton was heavily influenced by his scientific training and used that to shape his influence in science fiction, focusing on the adverse effects of botched attempts at scientific advancement

The Andromeda Strain, his first best seller, was an eerie account of extraterrestrial germs infecting the human race.

An amazing thirteen of his creations were turned into movies, with the most famous being Jurassic Park.

In his personal life, Michael was married five times; four of them ended in divorce. He leaves behind his 5th wife, 45 year old actress Sherri Alexander. He has one daughter, Taylor, from his fourth wife Anne-Marie Martin.

The family statement added: “Through his books, Michael Crichton served as an inspiration to students of all ages, challenged scientists in many fields, and illuminated the mysteries of the world in a way we could all understand.

“He will be profoundly missed by those whose lives he touched, but he leaves behind the greatest gifts of a thirst for knowledge, the desire to understand, and the wisdom to use our minds to better our world.

Crichton’s family said that he would have a private funeral, and requested that their privacy be respected.

Obama Girl Looking For Some Love

2008-11-05T06:42:00.000-08:00

Do you remember the Obama girl? She was the beauty who declared her love, took off some of her clothes and fought for Obama in an Internet video sensation.

Now, the Obama girl wants a little love back.

"Maybe if I could get invited to the inauguration?" giggled Amber Lee Ettinger, better known as the foxy Obama Girl whose "I got a crush on Obama" song scored more than 10 million YouTube hits.

Ettinger, speaking to AFP at a victory party for the Democratic candidate in a New York restaurant, said she'd at least like to hear whether the president-elect enjoyed the song.

"I'd like a note from him some day saying he thanks Obama Girl."

Ettinger, 26, came dressed as herself, with a diamond stud in her right nostril and a short but elegant dress, rather than the tiny shorts and bared midriff of her Obama Girl days.

Publicity agent Kelly Brady said "I got a crush on Obama," which contrasted hilariously wonky lyrics with Ettinger's more raw appeal, was not just a joke.

"Sex sells, and she was the sexy part of the election. That helped draw in the younger crowd. They asked: 'What's that hot girl saying about Obama?'"

Ettinger says politics did not interest her much until Obama's campaign against Republican John McCain. Now she's ready for anything.

"I've got my Super Obama Girl outfit in the back of the car!"

President Barack Obama - The 44th

2008-11-05T03:07:00.000-08:00

November 4, 2008 will go be known as one of the greatest days in American history. It is the day that the American public: black, white, yellow and brown, came together as one voice, and one cause; to elect Senator Barack Obama as the first Afro-American president in the United States.

Now that I think about it, this is not only about America, it is about the world. The example American has set is that bigotry and hate have no place in society. Sure, there will always be racism and prejudice but its bell has sounded, and maybe this time for the final round.

My hat goes off to President Barack Obama. He has followed in the footsteps of some prominent black Americans, Booker T Washington, Rosa Parks, Malcolm X, Martin Luther King. All of America should be proud - it is truly inspiring.

I speak for all America when I say "I'm looking forward to Barack Obama leading America to greatness once again".

I bet by the end of the first business day after the election. The DOW Jones industries and the NASDAQ markets will reflect this historic day with record gains - it will be their way of showing confidence in Barack Obama - the first Afro-American and youngest president of the United States of America.

Good bless America, the home of the free and the brave!

Obama Swinging in Ohio And Pennsylvania

2008-11-04T16:38:00.000-08:00

According to the Pew Research Center and the Quinnipiac Poll, Barack Obama has a impressive lead in the swing states of Ohio and Pennsylvania.

According to the early indicators and surveys, Barack Obama has a 7 percent point lead over John McCain Ohio. Obama also has a 10 percent point lead over McCain in Pennsylvania.

The Pennsylvania lead is surprising, considering the comment Obama some time again abouth them being "bitter". I guess maybe they aren't bitter after all. Pennsylvanians, like most Americans are smarting from the recent downtown in the economy and high unemployment.

With Ohio, his lead isn't so surprising, but in the past it has been voted predominately Republican.

The winds of change are in motion and Obama is flying high.

One interesting point is that not since 1960 has a candidate not been elected president without carrying the biggest swing states. And Ohio and Pennsylvania are two of them.

Stay tuned. There is still plenty of voting time left, especially on the left coast.

Anne Hathaway With Adam

2008-11-04T16:09:00.000-08:00

Anne Hathaway has a new man in her life but she recently refused to reveal his identity. But the word is now loose -and it is Adam Shulman.

Anne let the word out after being spotted recently with "her man" in New Orleans.

Hathaway was accompanied to the New Orleans screening of her new film "Rachel Getting Married" by her new love -- actor Adam Shulman. "We met through mutual friends. I came to support Anne. We've never been to New Orleans before - "it's time our first time," he said.

It was just a month ago when she hinted that of her new romance saying "This guy I known in L.A. is kind of doing it for me right now. When I think of sexy, I think of him."

If you remember, Anne's old beau ws Rafaello Follieri earlier this year. And this is her first romance since then.

She stated "Adam's everything Raffaello wasn't. He's sensitive and kind to a fault. I think I may have found a kindred spirit" a source said.

Lindsay Lohan Axed From World Music Awards

2008-11-04T03:42:00.000-08:00

It appears that Lindsay Lohan is not mending fences in the entertainment world, and it may have cost her a gig as the host of the World Music Awards.

According to rumors out of Hollywood, Lindsay's conduct and antics on the Ugly Better set, ended up costing her some work. Studio executives decided to cut her out of 2 episodes - reducing it from 6 to 4.

Now it seems that was only the beginning (or the continuation of her saga).
It is being said that the World Music Awards have decided that the actress is too unreliable, and have dropped her at the last minute. Lindsay had been booked to host the WMAs next weekend in Monaco. The last time Lindsay hosted the WMAs back in 2006, things didn't go all that well including an embarrassing moment where she screwed up and called Beyonce to the stage while she was was still getting her hair done.

Lindsay's career is on a real downward slide right now. Back in the spring Lindsay's movie career came to a screeching halt, which seemed to kind of force her into TV and the Ugly Betty Gig. She was dropped from a role in "Manson Girls" because Lohan has basically become a Hollywood Pariah, and the production company supposedly couldn't find any noted actresses that wanted to work with her. Right after that that she lost another juicy gig. Lohan was supposed to star alongside Jack Black in romantic comedy "Ye Old Times".

TV Reporter Arrested For DWI

2008-11-03T12:27:00.000-08:00

According to Star-Tribune, KMSP-TV reporter Beth McDonough was booked on probable cause second-degree drunken driving this weekend. This would be her second offense. In August 2007 she was arrested for gross-misdemeanor drunken driving and was on probation for that offense.

Beth McDonough is a crime reporter for a Minneapolis-St. Paul television station. The 40 year old was arrested on Saturday morning after she was involved in a property-damage creash and was stopped in Minnetonka, said Mark Peterson, a State Patrol spokesman.

She was booked into the Hennepin County jail on probable-cause second-degree drunken driving. She posted $12,000 bond and was released Saturday afternoon.

According to Bill Dallman, KMSP-TV News Director said they were checking into the allegations and had no further comment.

No charges have been filed against McDonough.

SNL 2 Hour Election Theme Special TONIGHT

2008-11-03T09:35:00.000-08:00

Saturday Night Live "SNL" will present a two-hour election themed special tonight, the eve before Election Day, Monday November 3. It will air on NBC starting at 9:00 PM EST. It is being called the "Saturday Night Live Presidential Bash 2008." The taped compilation show will highlight the blockbuster current season of political satire as well as showcase the show's 33-year history of lampooning the Oval Office. In addition, there will be new material shot exclusively for the special.

"Saturday Night Live" is from SNL Studios in association with Broadway Video. The creator and executive producer is Lorne Michaels. Steve Higgins produces. Marci Klein and Mike Shoemaker are producers. Seth Meyers is head writer. Don Roy King directs.

Where Do I Vote - The Answers

2008-11-03T08:55:00.000-08:00

Here is the information you've been looking for about how and where to register to vote:

How and Where to Register

Registering to vote is the first step every citizen takes to become an eligible voter. Once registered, you can begin to strengthen our democracy by participating in elections, working at our polling precincts, and even registering others like yourself to become voters.

You may register by mailing a completed Voter Registration Form, to the Elections office. Forms are available in person at public libraries, city and county offices, Department of Motor Vehicles offices, and at U.S. Post Offices, or via on-line download. You may also call our office at (650) 312-5222 and we will mail a form to you within one business day.

To pick up a Voter Registration Form in person, look at our index for a location near you.

To complete the Voter Registration form on-line go to http://www.SOS.ca.gov/elections/votereg1.html.

You may register at any time, but to be eligible to vote in an upcoming election, your Voter Registration Form must be postmarked no later than 15 days before that election.

Uniformed and Overseas Voters

Voters who are overseas or in the military may register and apply for an absentee ballot by completing a Federal Post Card Application form (Standard Form 76). This form is available at your local US Embassy or by visiting the Federal Voting Assistance Program website at http://www.fvap.gov/.

Once your registration form is received and processed, we will send you a Voter Notification Card within 3 to 4 weeks indicating that you are now a registered voter. You can also check your eligibility online. If you are unsure about your voting status, please call the Elections Office directly at

Voter Qualifications

You may register to vote if you meet all of the following requirements:

* Citizen of the United States
* Resident of California
* At least 18 years of age on or before election day
* Not in prison or on parole for the conviction of a felony.

If you move, change your name, or change your political party affiliation, you will need to re-register.

Here is a toll free # for more information 1-866-733-2463

Obama Victory Will Hurt US Firms and World Economy

2008-11-03T02:39:00.000-08:00

It appears the United States is about to choose the most inexperienced, untried and unknown candidate, ever to have run for the office. This, at a time of international uncertainty, risk and even unprecedented economic instability. Can Barack Obama handle it?
Here is a simple example: Take the banking and mortgage problems currently plaguing the country. From what I've gathered from some very credible sources, Barack has no idea what to do or what it is all about. He has called every "economic" expert for advice on what to say. And that includes Bill Clinton.

And if Barack is elected, he will bring in a bunch of newbies to the White House with him. His advisers may be great marketing and public relations folks, but what happens when they have to make real decisions about real issues - not just someone's image? Talk is cheap, and you can bet that the pariahs in the world will be testing Barack Obama immediate and will, undoubtedly, to take advantage of him.

Who would you feel more comfortable with if Iran and North Korea both started making waves? Barack Obama or John McCain? This really is a big issue. Yes, it is true that the country is having problems and it needs help, but what happens if we are weak on the international front?

Is there reason to be concerned about this? Without a shadow of a doubt. If McCain were elected, he has the experience and known how, to keep the axis-of-evil at bay. As a true American war hero, he can handle these situations.

The minute Barack Obama walks into the White House, the world will laugh and take advantage of him from the start. Countries will be licking their chops.

I mean really, what experience does Barack Obama have? He spent 4 years as a Senator, with two of them running as a presidential candidate. And what kind of state is Indiana? It is a blue-collar, manufacturing state in the Rust Belt, hardly one that will help him with international affairs.

Americans are a lazy, whining, and "what's in it for me" kind of people. We look at the short term and seek immediate gratification. The solutions to the economic problems will not be solved by a tax break of $1,000. We need a long term solution. Our national security is more important.

There is no doubt that electing Barack Obama will lower the opinion of the U.S. on the world stage. And it is very possible that the United States will sink on the international trade scene as well.

Anyway, Barack Obama seems like a good man, an honest man and one that is sincere in his beliefs. I just worry that other nations will run all over him - like they did to Jimmy Carter (those were terrible days)!

Well, maybe there is hope. Imagine that Barack Obama were to extend an olive branch to John McCain, to serve as his adviser? Could you image the power of these two great men? We could then solve our problems and show the world, that dispute our differences, America can't be divided!

Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons - ICED

2008-11-02T15:18:00.000-08:00

“Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons Tribute on Ice” aired today on NBC (4pm-6pm EST/1pm-3pm PST)! The show was recorded last Saturday at the Sears Centre Arena in Chicago.

It was a great show. Although a little glitzy, it was a success. It was great to hear those oldies once again!

Meanwhile ...

Frankie Valli told the Minneapolis Star Tribune he plans to keep doing 70 shows a year “if the economy holds up.” He’s also thinking about doing a jazz album.

“I’ve been playing with one for about two or three years, have some sides (songs) that I’ve done and will probably revisit and make some changes,” he said. “I don’t know. I’m just going to do this until I don’t like it anymore or I think I need a rest.”

Is The Guy "Fieri" The New Emerill

2008-11-02T09:40:00.000-08:00

Guy Fiery is the one of the most popular chefs today. He is the star of Food Network's Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives and now he has a cook book called Diners, Drive-ins and Dives: Am All American Road Trip.

He is the owner of 5 restaurants in Sonoma County, California. He graduated from the University of Nevada Las Vegas 1990, achieving a Bachelor of Science degree in Hospitality Management.

At the age of 10 he started selling soft pretzels on his 3 wheeled bicycle cart. Over the next 6 years, Guy was able to save enough money to sponsor himself to study in France.

While attending UNLV - Las Vegas, he worked in a meat distribution supplier. After graduation, he was recruited by Stouffer restaurants to manage it's flagship restaurant in Long Beach, California. He spent 3 years there before moving to a 7 restaurant unit. He was soon promoted to District Manager of 6 restaurants and put in charge of recruiting and training.

In 1996, he and a fellow District Manager left to create their own chain of restaurants: Johnny Garlic, Tex Wasabi and Russel Ramsay's Chop House.

Guy is married with two children and lives in Northern California

New York City Marathon 50th Anniversary Today

2008-11-02T07:33:00.000-08:00

The New York City marathon, the most famous marathon is celebrating it's 50th anniversary. This year it is being sponsored by ING. It starts today, Sunday, November 2, 2008 @ 12:00 pm noon EST.

DON'T FORGET DAYLIGHT SAVING TIME!

If you can't make it to the Big Apple to see it live, you can watch it on TV and on the web.
TELEVISION

New York:

The race will be broadcast live exclusively on WNBC 4 New York for five hours. Telemundo Channel 47 will have live cut-ins during the race as well as segments leading up to the marathon. The WNBC 4 New York broadcast will begin at 9:00 a.m. with the pre-race warm-up and will follow the race through the five boroughs, across the bridges, and over the finish line until 2:00 p.m.

United States:

NBC Sports will broadcast a one-hour highlights show nationwide beginning at 3:00 p.m. EST on November 2; check your local listings for details. In the metro New York area, it will be on WNBC 4 New York. If your cable provider carries it, the race can also be viewed on the Universal Sports network.

Around the World:

A one-hour highlights show will be broadcast in nearly 125 countries worldwide. Check your local listings for details.

INTERNET

United States

On Sunday, November 2, it’s the world’s race — the ING New York City Marathon. Catch all the action LIVE, only on NBC’s UniversalSports.com! Coverage for the ING New York City Marathon begins at 9:00 a.m. The ING New York City Marathon will be available on demand after the live broadcast.

International:

Watch the entire race live on the Internet atUniversalSports.com for FREE! Viewers will get the entire race broadcast from 9:00 a.m. to 12:45 p.m.

College Being Sued Over Football Player Death

2008-11-02T06:58:00.001-08:00

Was the University of Central Florida responsible for Ereck Planchard's death?

On Tuesday, March 18, members of the University of Central Florida football team begin an hour-long weightlifting session on the first workout after spring break. What happened after that is up for debate but it resulted in the death of Ereck Plancher.

His death has brought into question UCF's handling of the situation. Ereck's parents have filed a wrongful-death lawsuit to get to the bottom of their tragedy. Was the school at fault? It is yet to be determined.

The coaches and trainers knew of his sickle-cell trait, which can restrict the flow of blood to vital parts of the body during high intensity workouts. When oxygen is reduced in the blood, red blood cells change shape from round to oval. This change causes the red blood cells to clog arteries.

Former teammate James Jamison, stated that UCF Coach George O'Leary singled out Ereck when he was unable to continue the football workout. The coaching staff says it was not a rigorous workout but some players disagreed completely.

Two former players who participated in the workout agreed to speak to "Outside the Lines" on the record, though reluctantly:

• The school did not begin interviewing players about the incident until more than a month after it happened; even then, some players with relevant information were never questioned.

"They never tell us really how he died," Plancher's Haitian-born father, Enock, says. "They only tell us he collapse and died. That's all they tell us."

On July 17, the Orange County Medical Examiner released its final autopsy report. It stated that Ereck's death was linked to sickle-cell trait, which "predisposed him to sickling of the red blood cells during periods of physical stress." Two weeks later, the Planchers informed the school of their intent to sue, alleging Ereck "experienced exhaustion, dizziness, shortness of breath, and other signs of extreme fatigue that were ignored by trainers and/or coaches of the University of Central Florida." The Planchers say they hope to prevent other families from confronting the same pain they have endured.

Shortly after Plancher's death, O'Leary told his players to avoid talking to the media about the incident, according to Jamison, Reams, other former players and one current player who requested anonymity. UCF employs a document titled "Catastrophic Incident Guideline," which lays out actions to be taken in the wake of an athlete's death or severe injury. Regarding responsibilities of various personnel, it calls on the head coach to "encourage other student-athletes to not discuss the incident."

Now, with the lawsuit filed, coaches, players and trainers are reluctant to talk due to recommendation from legal advisers.

12 Year Trick-Or-Treater Shot And Killed

2008-11-01T07:34:00.000-07:00

According to reports, a 12-year-old boy has been shot dead while playing trick-or-treat on Halloween night. Quentin Patrick and his family had decided to stop at some houses on the way home from a city event in Sumter, South Carolina.

The family was headed home from a city-sponsored event downtown when they decided to stop at a few homes, Sumter Police Chief Patty Patterson said. The father and his four children approached a home with a porch light on about 8:30 p.m. local time while their mother waited nearby in a vehicle.

As the family was at the door, they thought they heard fireworks. The 12-year-old boy, his father and brother were all hit by the gunfire. The boy died at a hospital, Coroner Verna Moore said. The other two children were not hurt.

Shooting suspect Quentin Patrick, 22, has been charged with murder and three counts of assault and battery with intent to kill.

Sumter Police Chief Patty Patterson said there were other people inside the house but they are not expected to be charged.

Neighbours ignored the commotion, thinking it was a Halloween prank.

"I thought, trick-or-treat night - pranks go down. Anything goes," said Lenwood Dixon, 49.

"I heard a noise like maybe gunfire, then my daughter saw a bunch of lights flashing and saw some cops."

In his six years in the neighbourhood, Mr Dixon said he wasn't aware of any violent crimes. He said a few trick-or-treaters had been on his block that night.

"I'm surprised. Since I was here, I'd never heard of anything like that happening," he said.

"It's a quiet neighborhood.''

Palin Not Ready Says Lawrence Eagleburger

2008-10-31T12:52:00.000-07:00

According to Yahoo News, a former secretary of state and supporter of John McCain says that McCain's running mate, Sarah Palin, isn't up to the task of taking over the presidency in a crisis but could become "adequate" if not "a genius in the job."

Then again, added Lawrence Eagleburger, several other vice presidents were also not ready. And he said he was confident that Palin, Alaska's governor, was tough enough if called to serve.

Eagleburger, who was secretary of state under President George H.W. Bush, has been cited frequently by McCain as one of several seasoned diplomats and former Cabinet members who back his presidential bid. McCain has pointed to them when asked about former Secretary of State Colin Powell's decision to endorse Democrat Barack Obama.

Asked Thursday on National Public Radio if he thought Palin would be ready to take over in a crisis, Eagleburger said, "Of course not."

"I don't think at the moment she is prepared to take over the brains of the presidency. I can name for you any number of other vice presidents who were not particularly up to it, either," Eagleburger said.

"So the question I think is, can she learn and would she be tough enough under the circumstances if she were asked to become president? Heaven forbid that that ever takes place," he said. "Give her some time in the office and I think the answer would be, she will be adequate. I can't say that she would be a genius in the job, but I think she would be enough to get us through a four-year — well, I hope not. ... Get us through whatever period of time was necessary, and I devoutly hope that it would never be tested."

Asked to respond to Eagleburger's remarks, McCain said he wasn't troubled by them.

"Larry has never had a chance to meet Sarah," McCain told ABC's "Good Morning America."