Hand Over All Your Money. And Make Sure It's Real!

The last person to pass a counterfeit is the person stuck with it. No one wants to be the last one holding an ersatz bill (sourdough). Neither banks or merchants receiving one are obligated to reimburse or compensate the party passing the bill. (U.S. Code Title 18, Section 471). Knowingly passing funny money is criminal. Meanwhile new bills such as the new $5.00 bill are on the streets now. You don't need to be a numismatist to keep yourself out out trouble.





How do you tell if the money in your pocket is real? The United States Secret Service has tips on detecting funny money. You can buy a special marker that when applied to real currency it leaves a yellow mark that fades. If it is a fraud, a dark or black ink stroke will remain on the bill. It appears the U S Reserve has a web site dedicated to keeping citizens updated on our currency. It's called the MoneyFactory.gov. Here you can read up or download materials on how to steer clear of phony bills.



There are in fact many security features built into modern bills. I've been to the Federal Reserve in Philadelphia and there you can learn more about it. Of course you can take an instructional course on identifying counterfeit money elsewhere.





Real currency has small metal particles in it. A trick you can do at home is using a household magnet and by folding an American Dollar bill in half then leaving some ballast on the lower half of the bent open bill, hold the magnet near the paper and it will attract the paper towards the magnet.


The $20.00 is the most counterfeited bill. The new $20.00 bill has a clear polyester (plastic) security thread running down left side of Jackson's portrait. Flip it over and it is still visible at the far right. The number 20 at the front right bottom is color shifting. It changes from copper to green as you change the viewing angle. The front and back side has a portrait watermark.





Similar to the $20.00 bill above, the $5.00 bill got a makeover this past March (March 13, 2008 was it's release date). Similar but not exactly like the $20.00 the security thread on the $5.00 bill is to the right of Lincoln's portrait. Micro printing abounds. It's watermarks are of the number 5.







The $5.00 bill has multiple color additions. From the staggerd fine print yellow 05's printed to the left of Lincoln's portrait to the purple number 5 for visually impaired which blends to gray at the edges. The large purple 5 glares at you on the back right bottom. Download a $5.00 bill video podcast for a visual instructional on the new $5.00 bill security features implemented March of 2008.



Whether it is a five, ten, twenty or fifty dollar bill, you can enjoy one security feature if for nor more than a good parlor trick... hold it up to an ultraviolet light. Under UV light security features will show themselves. You won't need special light to view the color shifting of optically variable ink.

Whatever happened to...THE GREAT SPACE COASTER?!

With my birthday coming up (it's tomorrow, and I turn 31...JOY), I took some time to reflect on my long and (admittedly) well-lived life.

And I realize there are a few things from the 80's (a decade of which I was a child in, when TVs came with dials and only a rare few had cable -- my family was one of them, which brought our channel total to 36! -- and we played round things called records when we wanted to listen to music...), to wit, the show above...THE GREAT SPACE COASTER.

The astute amongst you will notice that there's a Dora the Explorer tag in this post. We'll get to why in a minute.

The show is about three young singers (Francine, Danny, and Roy) who are brought to a habitable asteroid in space by a puppet clown character named Baxter who pilots the "space coaster", a rollercoaster-like spaceship. The asteroid is populated by strange-looking, wise-cracking puppet characters like Goriddle Gorilla, Knock-Knock the bird, Edison the Elephant and Gary Gnu, who hosts the "The Gary Gnu Show". Baxter is forever on the run from M.T. Promises, a nefarious circus owner (played by a large, top-hatted puppet) who plans to re-capture Baxter and return him to the circus he worked at before he escaped. Each episode ends with a different life lesson, and various celebrity guest stars (such as Mark Hamill -- imagine me, at four years old, watching Star Wars AND The Great Space Coaster all in one. Hello, Heaven! -- and Marvin Hamlisch) occasionally dropped by.

In each episode, Roy shows a short film on his portable, fold-up TV, often featuring segments from La Linea, an Italian animated series about a little man who is drawn (using a single line) at the beginning of the segment and then springs to life, communicating with his animator through high-pitched Italian mixed with gibberish. Francine, Roy, and Danny sing a song together in each episode (sometimes originals like "Wacky Talk", sometimes older songs like "Be a Clown" or covers of '60s and '70s hits), and the various puppet characters often sing songs as well. A few years into the show's run the MTV-like "Rockin' with Rory" segment began, where a DJ puppet would introduce "Danny and the Spacecoasters" performing cover tunes. While the action was mostly videotaped on the space set, it wasn't unusual for the characters to venture down to Earth for filmed musical numbers.

The Great Space Coaster was fairly popular in its day, and was merchandised with Goriddle Gorilla and Gary Gnu plush dolls, among other toys. But ratings began to slip a few years in, and the producers tried to correct this by bringing in new characters like the Huggles and Rory. The show is no longer seen in reruns and isn't available on DVD (some episodes were released on VHS -- yes, kids, VHS! -- although these are becoming increasingly rare), giving it a somewhat legendary status among those who grew up in the '80s. The show was quite innovative for its time, and is still occasionally referenced in pop culture today, as in the 2006 episode of Family Guy, "I Take Thee Quagmire", which included a parody of the the show's wild opening title sequence.

The show ran from 1981 through 1986. The series was directed by Dick Feldman, and distributed by Sunbow Productions.

And as for the Dora the Explorer reference...Chris Gifford, who played Danny on The Great Space Coaster, went on to become a writer and executive producer at Nickelodeon, where he co-created the Peabody award winning children's series "Dora The Explorer" and the successful spin-off "Go Diego Go." My nephews adore both series, and it's kinda cool that we have that strange connection to each other's shows.

Is Batman really dead?

Like Superman died and then did not die, like Spider-Man whom was cloned, but not a clone, and the Batman series where his back was broken and he was no longer Batman--Once again the comic book industry has decided to make another over the top decision... Kill Batman.

The question is will he really be dead? After all the perpetrator is his father. But wait! He's dead! Isn't he?

Well, no. Not now. He faked it according to the latest story line. The not really dead or faked death device is really a hackneyed story line.

We readers will read the entire story, waiting and expecting to find out at the end, that this man claiming to be Batman's father isn't, and/or Batman never really died; that he too faked death.

The current writers at DC insist Batman really is dead and that his mantle will be taken over by one of his Protégé’s. "This is the end of Bruce Wayne as Batman" says Grant Morrison of DC.

Potential replacements are the first Robin, Dick Grayson whom is now Nightwing or the current Robin, Tim Drake. You may recall the second Robin was killed by the Joker. I think he's really still dead. Unless he is actually alive. Some believe he was thrown in the Lazarus Pit (brings you back to life with negative results) and is now the dark character Hush.

Is Adrian Grenier Playing Tom Cruise On Entourage?

If you have ever watched Entourage, you may have noticed that the main character Vincent Chase is one lucky guy. He's an up and coming Hollywood socialite star that for all we can tell as viewers; has no real acting chops.

Now where have I seen that type of story play out before? I had a short list. Tom Cruise. When an actor makes a name for himself with his first film being Endless Love, you know that their future is based on looks and not acting skill. Hey, I loved Vanilla Sky but Tom played Tom again, just like Tom always plays Tom.

Both Tom and Adrian can pass as bad actors playing good actors playing bad actors.

In HBO's Entourage, Adrian Vincent gets to act within his role as an actor and I see that same un-quality. If there is any justice in the show, Drama should become the star, not Vincent. The Daily Beast agrees with me. What do you think?

You Be The Judge...

26-year-old Britney Spears performed her hit song “Womanzier” during the 2008 Bambi Awards on Thursday in Offenburg, Germany. Guess Britney wasn't eating too much turkey yesterday. She made a comeback performance as she ended her performance with a bang atop a metallic spherical cage. She also picked up the award for Best International Pop Star. Brit will release her sixth studio album, Circus, next week. Watch the video below! You be the judge, we're sure you may be in a food coma and don't want to think too hard today, click, watch and comment!

And how do YOU Celebrate Thanksgiving?

Bat Boy was spotted on a turkey farm celebrating Thanksgiving early.
Sam Collins, owner of Collins Turkeys, Inc. farm, was out early this morning getting the feed ready when he heard an odd noise out in the field. “It sounded like some kind of hoopla was going on,” Collins said.

Farmer Sam grabbed his rifle and hurried over, expecting to find a fox harrassing the birds. But he was in for a much bigger surprise.

“A little boy in jean shorts was out in the field all by his lonesome. When he heard me coming, he ran and leaned against a tree, acting real casual like. I might have believed him ‘cept he tried whistling and a bunch of turkey feathers came out of his mouth!”

Gordon Ramsay's Mistress Speaks!

Not sure who'd want to spend time with this guy, but...

MomLogic reports that Chef Gordon Ramsay is living his own domestic nightmare ever since British tabloids began reporting the news that he's allegedly been having an on-and-off affair for the past seven years. Yesterday, they ran excerpts of an interview they did earlier this year with Ramsay's supposed mistress Sarah Symonds.

Hear what Sarah had to say about sleeping with married men and what advice she gives all wives out there. Is this directed at Tana Ramsay, Gordon's wife of 12 years and mother of his four children??

Symonds says, “I was working in sales, PR and hospitality, so I tended to mix with celebrities and high profile people, who I was always attracted to—that was my type. And they always seem to be willing and able to cheat on their partners. It just went with the territory.” She adds, “Married men who want to lure another woman are very good at it and it’s not hard for them to do. They tend to be charismatic, good-looking. Who wouldn’t say no? Lots of people wouldn’t. I was one that didn’t.”

As for the wives of her lovers finding out about her affairs, she reveals, “I wanted him to tell her about me. In fact, in the end, I picked up the phone and told her about me, personally. It wasn’t the best day in her life, I don’t think. But, as usual she stayed with him, they talked it through. She told me, ‘Even though I know he’s cheated, I don’t want to leave him because he’s the father of my children.’ And he still came back to cheat with me a year later.”

Perhaps referring to her alleged affair with Ramsay, Symonds claims, “I used to travel with my guy all over the world. Every business trip he went on, I would be with him and his wife would often call the hotel room and I would be lying next to him. In his mind, he wasn’t lying to her—she just didn’t know that he wasn’t in bed alone.”

Speaking about ending affairs, she explains, “I was very torn when I wanted to end the relationship with my married man, but we had such chemistry—sexual chemistry and physical chemistry and emotional chemistry—that I stayed in the relationship for way too long. I believed all the lies he was telling me. But I do still miss the sex with him, actually. I hope he’s not watching—I wouldn’t want him to know that.”

Links w/ video:
http://www.momlogic.com/2008/11/hear_more_from_tv_chefs_allege.php
http://www.momlogic.com/2008/11/gordon_ramseys_alleged_mistres.php

Akon To Perform MySpace Music Release Show At China Club In New York CIty!

MySpace Music is proud to announce that Akon will be performing a free show for his MySpace friends at China Club in New York City on Monday, December 1, 2008 - a show being powered by AT&T. Doors for the 21+ Release show will be at 8 p.m., and admittance will be handled on a first-come, first-served basis with a printout of each person's profile displaying Akon in their top eight.

An internationally recognized, Grammy-nominated, multi-platinum selling artist, producer, entrepreneur, and philanthropist, Akon is one of the most influential voices in music today. In addition to having two multi-platinum albums, 21 songs on the Billboard Hot 100, Gold or Platinum status in over 23 countries, and over 145 guest appearances with artists such as Michael Jackson and Gwen Stefani to his credit, Akon is the only artist to ever accomplish the feat of holding both the number one and two spots simultaneously on the Billboard Hot 100 charts twice.

In addition to his accolades, on November 19, 2008 Akon announced that his third album, "Freedom," will be available on "slotMusic™, a new form of DRM-free MP3 music on a microSD card beginning Tuesday, December 2nd - the same date his album will be released digitally and on CD. The new slotMusic card will give fans a chance to enjoy Akon's album in a variety of ways and on a host of devices - from their microSD-enabled mobile phones to their computers and MP3 players. Going beyond the original thirteen songs that are on the CD version of the album, the slotMusic "Freedom" card will carry a mini-documentary video on Akon's life and influences, the new video for "Right Now (Na Na Na)," and exclusive hi-res images and songs including fellow SRC artist Tami Chynn's debut single "Frozen" featuring Akon.

Please visit Akon's MySpace page to preview his new album "Freedom" before it hits stores 12/2 starting this Friday 11/28:http://www.myspace.com/akon

For more information on MySpace Music Release Shows, please visit: http://www.myspace.com/hiphop

China Club
268 W. 47th St.
New York, NY 10036
(212) 398-3800
http://www.chinaclubnyc.com/

Want to Give Thanks? Be Careful How You Do It. See how one person can ruin everyone's fun

At various times in every school year I read an article about how a group of people are offended, thus changing the dynamic of Holidays, events, recreational activities and more. From the universal banning of dodge-ball to what now is the end of decades old traditions, in this case the Thanksgiving play at Condit Elementary in where else? California.

Some people game our systems to ruin everyone's fun. In this case, some = one. One person has objected and due to her own self-absorbed belief, and her background in education, she has turned a school district on its heels to almost end a children's Thanksgiving celebration. What is her complaint?

Ironically the complaint is over a reenactment of a historically accurate event where two cultures put aside their differences to share thanks. Know what it is? Yes, perhaps the most beloved holiday in the U.S., Thanksgiving. Does this really sink in? An event with a beautiful message of coming together and forgetting differences is challenged as of all things, racist. Michelle Raheja is offended on behalf of her child that any child should have to wear any handmade paper bonnets or head dresses. Why? According to Michelle Raheja, "I'm sure you can appreciate the inappropriateness of asking children to dress up like slaves (and kind slave masters), or Jews (and friendly Nazis), or members of any other racial minority group who has struggled in our nation's history." Earth to Michelle, The story of Thanksgiving is not a racial insult or slur. It's not just historically accurate, it's a celebration of people with differences coming together as one. To compare it to Slavery or Nazi oppression is your own warped perception you have no right to foist on others.

The writers of this LA Times article seem to take a politically correct position (gee what a surprise) using the word 'some' to describe detractors of the event. The reality is that one person (Michelle Raheja) almost ended the event. Thankfully the involved parents in the school rallied together to fight for the children's right to hold the event.

While the one woman in question has the bloodline of the Seneca Indian's, the reality is the Pilgrims came together with the Indians. This celebration is in no way an insult to any Indian.

But the greater question is this? Is this woman even really offended? I mean really? How many of us have ever had an insult thrown at us that we didn't get over.

This one woman, Michelle Raheja (an English Professor), did in fact get two others to rally behind her for support. Both were of course involved as teachers, one at a local university and the other a former professor. This invites a whole other conversation about the narcissistic attitude of so called intellectuals simply because they have a degree.

We are not talking about equal rights for women or blacks or even how to promote free range chickens. It is one person that made a decision to game the system to ruin everyone's fun. At one point a court must set precedent for common sense. In the meantime, I say if you don't agree with a school event, stay home. Take your kid to the mall, a ball game, the park or what have you. And good for the many people that want to stand up to this one person.

Here is the original LA Times article on the matter.

Wizard Magazine Picks the Best In Comic Books -2008

After considering every panel and word balloon printed in the comic book form for the past 12 months, Wizard magazine is pleased to announce their selections for their Best of 2008 list. The list, which makes its debut in the all-new Gold collectors’ issue, hitting comic shops November 26th, includes the best that comics had to offer in the previous year. Some of Wizard’s selections are:

Best Writer: Jason Aaron (Scalped, Ghost Rider, Wolverine)
Best Artist: Leinil Yu (Secret Invasion)
Best Book: Action Comics (DC Comics)
Best Event: “Secret Invasion” (Marvel Comics)
Best Single Issue: Y: The Last Man #60 (DC/Vertigo)
Best Indie of the Year: Kramers Ergot 7 (Buenaventura Press)
Best Hero: Captain America (Marvel Comics)
Best Villain: Norman Osborn (Marvel Comics)
Best Revamp: The Incredible Hercules (Marvel Comics)
Best All-Ages title: Tiny Titans (DC Comics)
Best R-rated book: The Boys (Dynamite Entertainment)
Best Horror writer: Joe Hill (Locke & Key)
Best Cover Artist: Marko Djurdjevic (Thunderbolts, Daredevil)
Best Movie: “Iron Man” (Marvel Studios)


“Wizard’s very excited about presenting our picks for the best in comics of 2008 in this special all-new Gold collectors’ issue,” said Wizard Magazine managing editor Mike Cotton. “We had a lot of fun—and fights—putting together our picks for the best writer, artist, book and movies of 2008, and we can’t wait to see the fans’ reaction.”

For more information on the winners and why they were chosen, pick up Wizard Gold on sale at comic shops everywhere on November 26th. The issue, which hits newsstands on December 9th, also features the best comic book moments of 2008, the best toys, props and statues, and the title named Best New Series among other exciting features.

You Got a Problem. It's Your Phone.

Have you ever text messaged the wrong person? Ever heard of "textual harassment" or "texting while intoxicated"? If not, read on. You'll get a kick out of this.

I first wanted to write an article only about text messaging the wrong person after learning I am not the only person having text messaged the wrong person. I'll get to that. However this is a topic that goes beyond this one blunder. So let's explore...

ACCIDENTLY CALLING THE WRONG PERSON

For me it all started when I acquired my first PDA (Personal Digital Assistant) phone. These phones have large touch screens and locking software is frankly a pain in most cases. Inevitably the phone would dial back in error anyone I was on the phone with last. This happened from time to time and usually it was my wife. WAS. LOL.

Nooooo! I never spoke to anyone I shouldn't be talking to, don't go assuming too much. The only story there is that I was annoyed by my phone. There is this one time when I was out to lunch with a friend from high-school, and old band buddy. We were catching up at nice sit down restaurant. My phone called my wife while it was on the table! Later she told me, "You idiot, you left a 20 minute voice mail at my office!" You'd think the joke ends there. She went on because she was angry, not pissed, but angry. Yes ladies and gentlemen my wife heard me speak things she should not have heard. And no I didn't speak ill of her. I recall telling my friend that my wife didn't know me. We were talking about how she angrily told me once she didn't want to know about my past life before her and I had to put all my photos of my life before meeting her in a crate and put a padlock on it. I'm not kidding. So at lunch I'm saying..."There is a side of me my wife will never know and I resent that." The fall out at home was hard core. I won't detail it, you can imagine what a woman does when she is angry and decide for yourself what happened.

Couple that incident with the phone calling her back while in my pocket a number of other times and you get annoyed with your phone and yourself.

And I'm vindicated again here as I've looked it up and found people actually do worse things such as dial drunk. Just read The New Social Etiquette: Friends Don't Let Friends Dial Drunk.

In the end, I have had to actually remove people from my PDA phone completely to insure my phone doesn't dial them.

ACCIDENTLY TEXT MESSAGING OR REPLYING TO THE WRONG PERSON

Now you know where it all started for me, then it evolved. If you are like me, I now have a love hate relationship with my PDA phone. Because next came text messaging. Have you ever replied to or just simply sent a text message to the wrong person? I have plenty but I've gotten that under control over time. LOL

But what made me write this article today was that while watching Neil Patrick Harris (actor plays Barney - How I met your mother) co host a show he is chatting up about his Iphone and trading stories. Wouldn't you know it, he brings this very subject up. Apparently Mac Iphones make it easy to text the wrong people. Others have their own embarrassing moments to share here.

Bam! I'm exonerated of embarrassment! I'm not the only one! He tells a couple cute stories about how he's both replied to and simply sent text messages to the wrong person.

So how does this happen to completely rational, sane, technically savvy and educated men? (Or women! LOL) ?

Here are a couple discussion boards discussions on the topic:

1. Ex-wife and ex-husband child custody wrangle (ironic but no connection to me) ... oh and solution to anyone a victim of this nonsense... change your phone cell phone number and only allow them to call your home. Duh.

2. Various people discussing mistakes and text messaging tactics (how to worm out of mistakes)

3. Woman accidently text messages state trooper for pot (thought it was her dealer) LOL

Well, for me it's the fact it's a PDA phone. Not a phone. With a PDA phone you have a call history listed on the touch screen. A quarter or dime, car key etc.. can touch the screen and initiate the call if your phone is in your pocket. Gremlins too, don't forget them. Because something dialed my wife while my phone was lying innocuously on my table that day at lunch! :)

Then there is the user initiated blunder. The dumb mistake you are at fault for an no one else… These happen when you are emotional I suppose, that happens mostly when you are drunk. J This is called, texting while intoxicated or being Intexticated ( or intexitcated), LOL. I don’t drink so I text messages for general communication only. Otherwise I don’t chat people up in text.

Of course then there is simply just the act of text messaging itself that can be an embarrassment. Just this last week on February 12, 2008 a woman was issued a restraining order for sending and ex boyfriend 10,000 text messages in two months. Frankly, I don’t see a problem with this. Isn’t this the average number of text messages girlfriends send a guy anyway? <grin> I've gone as far as to change my phone number on my PDA to stop an ex from doing the same, I think this guy could have done the same. I got a great phone number out of the deal! LOL

I was even more relieved to find a funny public service video on YouTube.com about safe texting. :)

Only in one case did I find that a guy actually texted the wrong person that he did NOT know and eventually married her.

HOW DOES ACCIDENTAL TEXT MESSAGING HAPPEN?

As you see there are lot of stories of it happening. I think it has to do with the devices mainly. For me, I've found that hitting reply to the last person that text messaged me is easier than typing a full number again. But saving a few steps in the process and being rushed in the car, out on the paintball field, or walking through a store or where ever I may be busy doing something I shouldn't be distracted can lead to embarrassment. On my PDA screen I see a list of recent text messages and have to select the person I want to reply to. I've though I selected the last person, when in fact I selected a nearby sender. I've also simply just hit reply to my last sender thinking that I was text messaging them last, when it was someone else. That one is user error. Guilty here. :)

Then there are people that just are not familiar with new technology, read: These Newfangled Contraptions.

Here is one more video. It's short and is cute, and actually makes another big point about text messaging mistakes. That is what you write doesn't express your emotions. Just watch it. You'll learn what you already know. :)

No one is immune to text messaging mistakes. We all have embarrassing moments in life and I think text messaging will become a big cause of life’s embarrassing moments as the twenty-first century rolls on.

NOTE: October 20, 2008 - CNN.com Article

Oh, Boy! Heidi & Spencer Got Hitched!

Brace yourselves, folks. The couple we love to hate eloped in Mexico and are officially hitched. That's right, The Hills' Heidi Montag and Spencer Pratt are married!

Spencer shared his gushing wedding vows: “Heidi, from the moment you came into my life, I knew my life would never be the same without you. You are the light in my life like the sun to the earth! Your loving warmth makes me want to be a better person. Being with you, I feel complete. I’m honored to even be able to call you my wife. You are the most amazing, loving and caring woman on this planet. I will love you forever and always.”

And Heidi’s vows: “From the moment I met you, I knew I wanted to marry you. I never knew love existed like this. You have opened my eyes and shown me a new world. Every moment with you is magical and amazing. You are truly my prince charming and dream guy. I love you with all my heart and soul and promise to be the best wife to you every day for the rest of our lives. I can’t wait to see what life brings us. I will always be by your side!”

Oh, geez. Did you have to stop yourself from gagging? Heidi, 22, and Spencer, 25, exclusively sold their wedding pictures to Us Weekly, out on newsstands later this week.

Katie Heigl Turns 30!

“Grey’s Anatomy” actress Katherine Heigl was spotted with her husband/singer Josh Kelley and some friends enjoying a night out at the Desert Rose restaurant in Los Feliz. Katherine had a 1920s-themed party to commemorate her birthday! How fun!

Looks like Katherine was happy to trn 30, we know some young people dread that age but look how happy she is! Ha!

In other Grey's Anatomy TV news, the show scored its biggest audience since its season premiere this past Thursday, according to overnight data. The 'Ghost of Denny' helped the drama nab 15.7 million viewers! Good for them, we know the show doesn't sparkle like it used to, people were completely obsessed! Glad to see it's still doing well, right?!

Thanksgiving Advice From Gwyneth Paltrow!

Actress Gwyneth Paltrow has been dipping her hand into the cooking world lately. Gwyneth had been traveling around Europe (Spain) sampling the local delicacies with chef Mario Batali. Didn't they write some sort of little book together or something, too? Well, she just started a website called GOOP. She sends out a newsletter via GOOP, and the latest entry is about preparing Thanksgiving dinner. How timely! She writes:

"Thanksgiving is, without a doubt, my favorite holiday. I love when everyone comes together and celebrates the idea of gratitude, something we all mean to do every day, but seem to lose sight of most of the time. I also love the cooking – the days of planning and chopping and basting. This year, I decided to work out three variations on the traditional meal: a big group, a small gathering and a cozy dinner for two." She then includes some recipes, you'll have to check out her new website for more! We agree with her though, what are you thankful for this Thanksgiving?

Thanksgiving: Little Known Facts About Turkey Day

What does Thanksgiving mean to you? For me it's a day of over eating and football. But there's a lot more to this day then a turkey and the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade.

As you probably learned in elementary school, the first Thanksgiving took place in the fall of 1621. Only half of the original Mayflower Pilgrims had survived by the fall. Thankful to be alive, they held a three day feast and invited the the neighboring Wampanoag Indians to the celebration. The pilgrims had a jovial celebration thanks to the beer they brought with them from England.

Everyone was partied out from that first celebration, so Thanksgiving took big break until George Washington issued the first Thanksgiving Day Proclamation in 1989.

Strangely as it may seem, there wasn't a set day for Thanksgiving until 1863. Up until then the president would issue a proclamation each year detailing what day the holiday would be observed. In 1863, Abraham Lincoln issued the proclamation that Thanksgiving would be celebrated on the last Thursday of November.

For some reason no one respected Lincoln's proclamation after his death, and the country went back to the old yearly proclamation system until 1939. Franklin D. Roosevelt returned the country to the fourth Thursday in November standard because it would lengthen the Christmas shopping season and hopefully boost the economy. In 1941, congress passed a proclamation officially setting in stone that Thanksgiving would be celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November.

But that's just us. Canada celebrates Thanksgiving too, but on the second Monday in October.

But what about the traditions?

No one really knows why we eat turkey on Thanksgiving, but since 1621 that has been the tradition. Approximately 91% of people eat turkey adding up to the sale of over 280 million turkeys for Thanksgiving celebrations. That's about 7.3 billion pounds of turkey. What do the other people eat? On the west coast the Dungeness crab is a popular alternative to turkey.

Archeologists have found evidence that turkeys were roaming the United States 10 million years ago. According to the Guinness Book of World Records the largest turkey weighed 86 lbs. It won the Heaviest Turkey competition in London on December 12, 1989.

Benjamin Franklin wanted the turkey to be the national bird, not the eagle. A wild turkey can run up to 20 mph if spooked. They can also burst into flight approaching speeds between 50-55 mph in a matter of seconds.

Probably the strangest thing you've heard about turkey is that it contains tryptophan, a natural sedative. While it is true that turkey contains tryptophan, it's a myth that you get sleepy from eating it. Unfortunately it's not as simple as that. Here's how it works:

Tryptophan is an amino acid that helps your body produce serotonin, a calming agent in the brain that plays a key role in sleep. So that seems simple enough? Tryptophan produces chemicals that make you sleepy so that is why everyone takes their post-dinner nap on Turkey Day. Wrong.

Pharmaceutical companies, learning that the chemical produced serotonin, started producing medication in the 1980s for insomniacs. In 1990 the FDA banned tryptophan supplements because the chemical lead to severe muscle pain and even death. While tryptophan does produce serotonin it takes a large of the amino acid to produce enough to knock you out. Unfortunately, that amount can cause serious health problems.

Here's why tryptophan in turkey doesn't make you sleepy. Number 1: Tryptophan levels in turkey are minimal, almost unrecognizable. Number 2: Tryptophan only works well on an empty stomach. When you have food in your system tryptophan has to compete with all the other amino acids in your system, so an even less amount makes it to your brain.

Sorry guys but this is just an urban legend. The real reason you get sleepy is simple. You over eat. The average meal contains 3000 calories, most of which are carbohydrates. This means your body is working overtime to digest everything causing that post-meal lethargy.

Alright, but there's more to Thanksgiving than turkey. There's also the Macy's Parade, which has been held annually since 1920. It's so prominent in New York that Thanksgiving is referred to in NYC as Macy's Day. The end of the parade signals the beginning of the Christmas Season, consummated by Black Friday where shoppers officially begin the holiday rush.

The Thanksgiving Classic football game was first organized by the Detroit Lions in 1920 to boost ticket sales. Since then teams traditionally wear throwback jerseys to commemorate their team's history.

The day before Thanksgiving is the largest day in for bar sales in the United States. New Years Eve holds a close second.

Around 78% of employees get paid leave Wednesday through Friday of Thanksgiving Week. It is also one of the busiest travel periods of the year.

So here are some little known things about a well known holiday. You can wow you're relatives at the table with your knowledge of the holiday. Just make sure you do some exercise the next day as the average American eats a day and a half worth of calories in one meal. It would be a good idea to join the holiday shopping rush on Black Friday. 10 hours should do it. Shopping burns 300 calories an hour.

Guitar Hero - Heidi Klum

What do Tom Cruise, A-Rod, Kobe Bryant, Tony Hawk, Michael Phelps and Heidi Klum have in common?
Apparently dancing around in thier underwear! Alex Rodriguez, The Bird Man, Kobe, the gold medal winner and Ms. Klum all play guitar for video game Guitar Hero, mouthing and rocking along to Bob Seger's "Old Time Rock and Roll", mimicking the scene that made Tom Cruise in 1983's Risky Business.

Other stars in the Guitar Hero commercials include Davids Cook and Archuleta, Slash from Guns N Roses,

BY THE WAY - Here's another (Disney) star rocking for Guitar Hero...
Ladies and Gentlemen, Corbin Bleu...

Brett Ratner has directed these commercials. Some people love 'em, other people hate them,what do you think?

Dress Like Labelle Contest! Win a Trip to See the Ladies Perform Live!

Win the once in a lifetime opportunity to see Labelle perform live in 2009! To celebrate the release of their first studio album in 32 years, Back to Now, the illustrious ladies just launched the 'Dress Like Labelle' YouTube contest! To enter, contestants should create a video of themselves sporting Labelle's unique style. The video should be set to the full length audio of the single, "Roll Out" (featuring Wyclef Jean). Then, they should upload their video to the 'Dress Like Labelle' YouTube group and submit all basic information to the official Labelle contest page. The contestant who makes the winning video will win a trip to see Labelle live in concert! To read up on the official contest rules, click here.

'Dress Like Labelle' YouTube Group: www.youtube.com/group/labelle

Click Here to Enter

Purchase your own copy of Back to Now from iTunes or Amazon.com.

The Mystery of Relationships

Are relationships conical or cyclical?

I do not see how they can be both. In a conical relationship theory you see you and a partner spiraling in a positive or negative direction. Once a relationship begins spiraling in the negative direction that conical path starts off slowly and may be reversed if it is to survive, but if not it heads downward towards the end of the spiral where it comes to a point and vanishes. The same can be said for a positive relationship. This poses another question. Does a positive spiral end? Does it spiral faster and heat up and burn out like a star?

Then there is cyclical relationships. In them you are what you are and you will simply repeat with the next person the pattern or behavior of your last relationship. The old saying a leopard doesn't change its spots comes to mind. The good behaviors you expressed in past relationships will repeat in your next. If you are a liar, a cheat, or infidel, that cycle will repeat.

I often wonder how these two theories play out together? Can they meet and live in a sort of synchronistic existence or are they more of a semaphore?

American Music Award Winners!

Rihanna and Chris Brown cleaned up at this year's American Music Awards. Rihanna ended up winning both the Favorite Soul/R&B Female Artist and Favorite Pop/Rock Female Artist. While her boy-toy Chris Brown took the prize in 3 categories- Favorite Pop/Rock Male Artist, Favorite Soul/ R&B Male Artist, and Artist of the Year. Phew, well done!

There were tons of performances during the show last night from Christina Aguilera, Miley Cyrus, Beyonce, The Fray, and Ne-Yo! There was also a surprise appearance by Justin Timberlake as he gave the Award of Merit to legend Annie Lenox.

Here's a few of the other results from the show! (not a complete list)

Breakthrough Artist Jonas Brothers
Favorite Soul/R&B Album Alicia Keys, As I Am
Award of Merit Annie Lennox
Favorite Pop/Rock Band/Group/Duo Daughtry
Favorite Adult Contemporary Artist Jordin Sparks
Artist of the Year Chris Brown

Favorite Country Female Artist Taylor Swift

Robert Pattinson Bites Tyra!

Twilight star Robert Pattinson leaned in for a bite of Tyra Banks neck during a taping of The Tyra Banks Show last week. Don't worry, he's not that weird. She asked him to do it! This silly moment makes for our PCM Picture of The Day!

Meanwhile, the director of Twilight has been given the green light to start work on a sequel as the film breaks box office records this weekend! It has taken $70.6m in its opening weekend in the US. The movie rang up the fourth-highest November opening weekend of all time. Twilight is proving extremely popular with the same teenage audience that enjoyed Harry Potter. Have you seen Twilight? What did you think?

Fabulous Saturday Morning News!

NO DOUBT REUNITED! No Doubt has released a new promo pic on their official website. Rumors that the band has been reunited and writing again were swirling around the media and we hadn't heard anything until now! Keep you fingers crossed, people, it looks like Gwen Stefani and the guys are writing and itching for a tour! We think that will be one hot ticket!

Gwen just had her second baby but looks like that's not stopping her from getting work done! The band is saying it's been too long and look for No Doubt in 2009! Check out the band’s official website at NoDoubt.com.

Have You Seen Whale Wars?

Have you seen the new reality documentary series Whale Wars on Animal Planet? Captain Paul Watson founded his Sea Shepherd Conservation Society in 1977 because he believed his new organization had to go even further to eradicate whaling, poaching, shark finning and habitat destruction — and to uphold international conservation laws on the high seas — than the Greenpeace group he had co-founded.

Watson's group of staff and volunteers have engaged in a campaign almost every winter to find and stop Japanese ships that hunt whales in the name of research, attempting to stop them by any non-violent means necessary. The eclectic group — labeled activists, heroes and/or eco-pirates — leave port in Melbourne, Australia for a two-month campaign that is dangerous, controversial and has garnered international media attention.

During the 2007-2008 campaign, Animal Planet captured the intensity of Sea Shepherd's mission and the trials and tribulations of the crew in a new seven-part, hour-long weekly series Whale Wars.

New Couple Alert!

It's being reported that The Office's John Krasinski is now dating Emily Blunt, who had dated Michael Buble and went through a public breakup with the singer recently.

Blunt is best known for her role in The Devil Wears Prada. Krasinski has recently been linked to his Office co-star Rashida Jones, who played his onscreen love interest Karen last season. The two were spotted on Nov. 9 at San Ysidro Ranch in Santa Barbara, Calif. Hmm.. interesting, interesting. But let's not jump the gun quite yet, they could be pals!

In Case You Haven't Seen It Yet... (Brace Yourself)

Check out Rihanna's new music video for her latest single, "Rehab," featuring Justin Timberlake. It's smokin' hot!

Twilight's Kristin Stewart @ Letterman

Robert Pattinson isn't the only Twilight star that's getting attention lately. His co-star Kristen Stewart, 18, was out in chilly NYC signing autographs for fans that waited outside of The David Letterman Show. I can't believe she's only 18, she looks so much older!

Stewart, who plays Bella Swan in the book-based film, recently talked about how she thinks her co-star Pattinson is definitely “pretty sexy.” People are freaking out of his good looks, girls are going crazy for this guy everywhere. People have camped out at malls for chances to see the star when they were scheduled to appear at malls all over the U.S. earlier this month.

P.S. In case you're living under a rock, Twilight opened in theaters today and we're curious to see where it will end up on the weekend box office list! Do we smell a number one movie?

Violet Affleck: Future Supermodel?

A natural looking Jennifer Garner carried her daughter, Violet Affleck, through LAX airport today. The 36-year-old expectant actress will soon delivery baby #2. How exciting! We're sure this baby is going to be JUST as cute as Violet here, she definitely wins our award for cute toddler of the day! She seems to be fairly comfortable around the cameramen snapping her picture. This child is way too good-looking!

Garner recently won a restraining order against a man she claims has been stalking her for years. Phew, that's scary!

What's hubby Ben Affleck been up to these days? He's been flying low on the celebrity radar. Well, he hasn't made a movie lately but that doesn't mean he's not doing some amazing things! Affleck is talking to children and aid officials in refugee camps in war-torn eastern Congo in an effort to raise awareness of the conflict that has displaced nearly 300,000 people. How noble, we're loving it!

My Life is Awkward: Eating

My life is awkward, really awkward. Two weeks ago, on a train, this Indian guy let out the largest fart I have ever heard. I had a front row seat to the most incomprehensible loudest B-movie comedy fart in the history of the large intestine. Of course everyone knew who it was, but of course everyone acted like nothing happened. Awkward.

It's not like I seek these things out. They just happen to find me. Is there some giant magnet that attracts awkward situations lodged somewhere in my body? I guess you have to just laugh it off. That's what I did. At least it didn't smell. If it had, I'm sure I would have found myself thinking: "What did that guy eat?" Eating, that's where it all started.

It's funny, eating. You have to eat to live, yet so many people are afraid of others seeing them do it. I never really thought of it as awkward until a few months into our relationship my girlfriend revealed to me that she scared of eating in front of me.

"I used to be hungry all the time," she said. "When we'd go out I would hardly eat anything. As soon as you left I'd go stuff my face."

Is it really that bad? Well, luckily, her fear only lasted a few weeks. Once we were more comfortable with each other, she had no problem stuffing her face in front of me - in the most elegantly feminine fashion of course.

But there are people that truly are afraid of eating. It's called Phagophobia. It's a fear of eating, swallowing or being eaten. There's also a thing called Sitophobia, which is an aversion to food.

But what about those who aren't afraid of eating? Obviously prevalent as obesity has been named as one of the world's biggest health threats. Here's something interesting. There's a biological disorder where you physically will not be full from eating. A person suffering from the disorder is kept under constant surveillance otherwise they will literally eat themselves to death. It's such a strange condition that it was featured on an episode of CSI:.

But what's the worst that can happen when it comes to eating? You put stuff in your mouth and swallow. Pretty simple, right? Wrong. Behold the Chinese buffet.

When I was in high school we used to have competitions to see who could eat the most plates of food. Lucky for us we all still high metabolisms because I'm pretty sure that we would consume a week's worth of calories during one competition.

Perhaps one of the most awkward places you can willingly submit yourself is a buffet. Here common cordiality is thrown to the wind. Even the most timid revert to their animal instincts and engulf themselves in gluttony. Not a good place to go on a first date. Especially if you're like my girlfriend and don't like when people watch you eat. But isn't that what makes the buffet fun?

There's always that mean fat guy in the corner who's been there for who knows how long. Sometimes I start feeling a bit Phagophobic myself. Watch out or you may lose a limb.

If you look at it from his point of view though, he's a genius. Why let the tab stack of at a normal restaurant, when you can pay $10 and eat until you can't anymore. But then I feel bad for the waitress. She has to haul all the crap back and forth for hours. All for what? A dollar tip. Bad show, gluttony, bad show.

What are you supposed to tip in a buffet anyway? It's not like they take your order and present the food as a server would in a normal restaurant. All they do is take away you pile of plates when the stack starts leaning. Not really worth the 15% tip.

According to Dear Abby, you're supposed to give 10%. Not bad considering most of these places are $10 all you can eat. But if you're like me - the new and improved, not eating 10 plates of food me - eating at a buffet is no different than eating at a food court. You don't leave a few bills on the table for the janitor to pick up.

To remove the awkwardness I suggest a sliding scale. Those who stop in for a quick plate of delicious fatty food should leave some change, just because the server brought a drink. Those who eat more pay more. I suggest a tip rate based on the number of plates you consume.

There are other elements though. That family with the annoying kids who are running all over the place yelling and screaming - they should be ejected from the restaurant. Alright, so no one's really gonna kick them out, but they should give a bigger tip. And it wouldn't hurt if they slid a few bucks to all the people who had to listen to their screaming kids too.

Tying up the Chinese buffet I leave you with an awkward thought to ponder. You always eat something that doesn't agree with you at the buffet. So what next? What if it hits you halfway home and you're stuck in traffic? What if you're over at a friends house when it hits you? Or a church? Or a meeting? What are you gonna do?

Awkward.

Oh, HELL No!

Emo baby has arrived...and he's gonna wanna crawl right back in when he figures out his name.

NME has reported that Pete Wentz and Ashlee Simpson had a healthy, bouncy baby boy last night...that they proudly named Bronx Mowgli Wentz.

BRONX MOWGLI? He's probably already on his way to his lawyer's office to file for emancipation from his parents.

BRONX MOWGLI? First of all, his initials are BMW! Trust me. That wasn't a coincidence. They just want a free car. Second of all, his short initials are BM. Enough said.

A spokesperson told NME, "Ashlee, Pete and baby Bronx are all healthy and happy, and thank everyone for their well wishes!"

Correction: BMW is not happy. Ass and Pete may think he's crying, because he's a little baby, but that's not the case. He's crying because his name is BMW and he already hates life!!! With a name like BMW, he can either be a low-rent neighborhood rapper or a low-rent neighborhood DJ.

Somewhere in the world, Zuma Nesta Rock Rossdale (aww. SMUSH SMUSH SMUSH.) has stopped crying over his name and is finally smiling, because someone has an even fuglier name than him.

Katy Perry # 1 (again) on Top Hits Online

Pink's six week run at #1 ends this week as "So What" drops to the runner-up slot. Taking its place is "Hot N Cold," the second #1 single from Katy Perry. Earlier this year "I Kissed A Girl" spent three weeks atop the chart. "I Kissed A Girl" is still hanging around the chart at #42 after 24 weeks. Perry will certainly be one of the top artists of 2008 when our year-end artist chart is published at the end of December. Perry's real name is Katheryn Elizabeth Hudson. She was born in Santa Barbara, California, the daughter of two pastors. In fact, her first CD released in 2001, called "Katy Hudson," was a Christian gospel album. Now her music and her outfits are pretty far removed from gospel... Enjoy the new chart this week!

For Sale By Owner

Photo Credit: Curbed

For sale: One (1) Soho loft. 30 Crosby Street in New York City.

Owned by one Lenny Kravitz, who renovated it 4 years ago.

Price: Just reduced to $2500 per square foot (not including the 3,000 sq. feet. of outdoor space). This is a 20% price drop, from its initial price of $18 million (translation: it's now $15 million). Taxes are nearly $5,000 per month; monthly maintenance is the same price.

Got that extra cash laying around? Visit the listing HERE.

Suri Cruise Tells It Like It Is...

[Photo Credit: Splash News Online]

While out with mom Katie Holmes yesterday, Suri responded to celebrity news reporters and photographers bothering her with a one-finger salute. She's learning well for a celebrity baby.

Suri Cruise just recently beat out all her competition and made the top of Forbes' list of Hollywood's Hottest Tots. Take that, everyone!

Perhaps though, being just a toddler, the cameras caught her at a weird moment scratching her noise and we're making something out of nothing! :)

A Blink 182 Reunion!?

Blink 182 was the very first concert I ever saw with my friends when I was 13! They hold a special place in my heart, ha! Blink 182's Mark Hoppus has revealed that the recent death of Blink producer Jerry Finn and Travis Barker's miraculous survival of a plane crash has brought the trio back together. They broke up in 2005 and haven't spoken to each other since, it was pretty nasty! Tom DeLonge found success with a new band, Angels and Airwaves. Travis Barker did his own side thing and starred in a reality show.

Now, could they be getting back together? You have to admit, they made some catchy songs! Hoppus said on his blog, "We're just reconnecting as friends after four years of not talking. It's a good thing. Obviously the first question for a lot of people will be, 'Does this mean a Blink-182 reunion?' The answer is none of us know. We haven't talked about it at all. Right now it's just good for the three of us to see one another, reconnect and let the past be the past."

For The Man Who Has Everything...

...including a few extra pounds.

As we all know, the holiday season is upon us, and leave it to the Japanese to come up with a unique gift for the fat guy who can't afford liposuction.

Behold, The Bro (with apologies to Seinfeld fans)!



I've been staring at this thing for HOURS, and the only witty remarks I can come up with are as follows:
(1) The model they picked for the packaging clearly doesn't need the product. I'm thinking someone like Azamat Bogatov would have worked better.
(2) Only in Japan, folks.
(3) To be a fly on the wall in the airport when the guy wearing this tries to explain "the underwire" to the TSA attendant flailing his wand around...
(4) Only in Japan, folks.
(5) The translation from Japanese is, approximately, as follows:

"Why aren't there men's bras?"
You ask why because there is no need for one?
But for people that think they might want one...
THEY NEED ONE.

(6) Only in Japan, folks.

Sarah Ball Deserves Combat Pay

Photo Credit: Felicitari

Poor Sarah Ball. The 22-year-old Newsweek reporter was dispatched to Thailand to interview Jean-Claude Van Damme about his new movie, "JCVD," which is about...well...himself.

Next thing she knows, she's face to face with the "Muscles from Brussels" and he got super-creepy, super-quickly. (By the way, Herr Van Damme is on Wifey No. 5. No coincidence, I'm sure.).

Below is the transcript of the interview.
There's a monologue in the film about being a washed-up action star. Did you improvise that?
I like structure—like driving: go past the school on the street, stay on the right side, no hitting the car, go in right, you'll see a big church, stop and take a left, and you'll have it. By doing this I'm giving a structure of life, a path of light, and showing what happens between me and me, which is something very beautiful.

Beautiful? Why?
I really opened myself up in "JCVD." I peeled back the skin of the fruit, cut the pulp and then took that very hard seed. In this film I cut that hard seed, and inside that seed was a kind of liquid cream substance of the man I am, or the woman you are.

OK —
It was like being naked—I would love to be naked in front of you.

Well, I —
Not being naked being naked. I say such things in Hong Kong and they thought I was being a crazy Frenchman. Being naked of protection.


So you've no regrets at all?
Believe me—I've done very good stuff and very crazy stuff, and I don't regret the crazy stuff. So are you in New York?

Yes, I am.
And are you 27, or 32?


I'm 22.
Oh, f–––. That is very young. Will you come to the premiere?

I don't know. When is it?
I don't know. You will wear all black, a black dress and high heels?

Uh —
You can come find me, I will be the one with the very broad shoulders, dark hair and a simple suit. We can have some champagne, you and me.

Guy Ritchie Doesn't Want a Cent!

Photo Credit: Babble.com

The Daily Mail has reported that Madonna and Guy Ritchie have reached agreement on their divorce - with the British film director refusing to take a penny of the pop star’s cash.

An announcement could come by the end of the month, a source close to the negotiations tells London's Evening Standard.

Another report, in The Times, claimed that notice of a decree nisi (divorce settlement) would be posted in the Registry of the Family Division in London within twenty-four hours.

Madonna will walk away from the eight-year marriage with her fortune, estimated at $600 million, intact.

The only thing Guy asked for is joint-custody of his two boys, Rocco and David. A source said that the two boys will split their time between London and New York. Lourdes will stay in New York with her mother (her father, Carlos Leon, also lives in NYC).

A source said, "It will be all over by the end of the month. The priority for him has always been the children. Ritchie has not wanted her money. He has done exactly what Billie Piper did when she divorced Chris Evans. She walked away without any of his money, much to her credit. Guy Ritchie has done the same."

Guy Ritchie obviously has a heart made of gold and rainbows, because anyone else (**coughHEATHER MILLScough**) would have taken Madonna to the cleaners.

Woman Goes on Trial in MySpace Hoax

Photo Credit: TinaMeier Web

As the victim of cyber-bullying (from a 60-year-old groupie of a no-name bar band, three years ago), it's gratifying to see this case be brought to justice. (For the record, she backed off after I sent the full phalanx after her...let this be a warning to everyone who dares to screw with me that I'm NOT afraid of ANYONE -- male OR female -- and I'll NEVER hesitate to use anything to positively annihilate you if you come after me, my family, or my friends. My personal mantra: Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I have no fear, for I am the meanest motherf***er in the valley. Consider THAT the next time you try something clever...).

The Associated Press reports that a Missouri woman, her teenage daughter and an employee used an elaborate Internet ruse to terrorize a 13-year-old neighbor girl who later committed suicide, a federal prosecutor said Wednesday.

U.S. Attorney Thomas O'Brien told jurors during his opening statement that Lori Drew helped create a false identity on the social networking site MySpace. Posing online as a teenage boy, Drew befriended Megan Meier, he said.

"The evidence will show that Drew opened the MySpace account and "fully intended to hurt and prey on Megan's psyche," O'Brien told jurors. Drew is accused of harassing Megan with cruel messages that ultimately led her to take her life in 2006.

Prosecutors characterize the case as the nation's first cyber-bullying case, and the results from it could set legal precedents regarding online harassment.

Drew has pleaded not guilty to one count of conspiracy and three counts of accessing computers without authorization. Each count carries a potential sentence of five years in prison.

O'Brien said it's the first time the federal statute on accessing protected computers has been used in a social-networking case. It had been used in the past to address computer hacking.

Defense attorney Dean Steward told jurors that Drew did not violate the Computer Use and Fraud Act and reminded them she was not facing charges dealing with the suicide.
"This is not a homicide case," Steward said.

Before the trial began, Steward tried to get U.S. District Judge George Wu to forbid mention of the suicide. Wu rejected the request but said he would instruct jurors that the case was about whether Drew violated the terms of service of MySpace, not about whether she caused Meier's suicide.

Prosecutors have said Drew targeted Megan because she thought the girl was spreading malicious rumors on MySpace about her own daughter.

Drew discussed the matter with her daughter and Drew's assistant, Ashley Grills, and the three allegedly plotted to invent "an attractive male teenager" on MySpace to find out what was being said about her daughter.

Megan hanged herself after allegedly receiving a message saying the world would be better off without her. Before the suicide, O'Brien said, Megan sent a response to the message saying, "'You are the kind of boy a girl would kill herself over.'"

Jury selection had ended earlier in the day. Questionnaires completed by prospective jurors led Steward to question whether Drew could receive a fair trial. He said that the forms indicated about 80 percent of the candidates had heard about the case and that half had formed "devastating" opinions about Drew.

The case is being prosecuted in Los Angeles because MySpace's computer servers are in the area.

Eminem's Mom is Cleanin' Out Her Closet

Photo Credit: Salon.com

From Marshall Mathers III's days as an elementary school student mimicking his favorite superheroes, his mother, Debbie Nelson, knew he was going to be a star. "Marshall used to bounce all the time and hum against the wall when he'd get tired, or he would sit on the couch or sit in the car and bounce and hum," Nelson told the BoomBox about the man now known as Eminem. "Everybody would say, 'That kid's retarded.' But nobody could say anything about my son."

She may have stuck up for her son but the tables were turned on Eminem's albums. She fervently supported his career but Nelson fell victim to his vicious rap attacks, most notably on the song 'Cleanin' Out My Closet.' In discussing her book, 'My Son Marshall, My Son Eminem: Setting the Record Straight,' Nelson rationalized Eminem's rants by saying it was easier for him to attack their relationship than his ties to the family of his wife, Kim.

"There's nothing I wouldn't have done for my son," said Nelson, who does not currently have a relationship with the rap star. "When he first went out there, pressing those tapes and stuff with the (1996) 'Infinite' album, I was passing them out to all of my limousine customers. He told me, 'Mom, "positive" is not selling.'

"When he went negative and had to be different and was very creative, he thought, 'I'll just attack mom because if I attack Kim's family they'll go after me and sue me. But if I attack my mother, it'll be different.' We were all surprised on that bill."

However, Eminem's mom did sue her son for $10 million because of his lyrics and comments to the media. She won about $25,000. In the opening words of Chapter 19, Nelson says, "I did not mean to sue my son for defamation. I just wanted to stop my home being repossessed and clear up the financial problems that had been caused." She wrote that her lawyer said suing Eminem would be a "wake-up call" and he would stop demeaning her publicly. Apparently it didn't work, as a year later he released "Cleanin' Out My Closet," a scathing testimony to the way his mother treated him as a child.

The lawsuit came on the heels of what Nelson calls a onetime strong relationship. She allowed him to explore his creativity through his dressing up as Batman, Robin or Spider-Man and went to great lengths to make her son happy. She said she does not worry about her son's reaction to the book.

"If anything, it blows him up," said Nelson, who has not heard leaked versions of Eminem's new material. "It shows I'm a very proud mother."

Family Guy Sings!

Photo Credit: About.com

They say that the way to get to Carnegie Hall is through practice, practice, practice...

The ENTIRE cast of Seth MacFarlane's Emmy Award-winning FAMILY GUY will bring the house down at New York's legendary Carnegie Hall for the World Premiere of a new live show "Family Guy SINGS!".

This freakin' sweet show will feature the superstar cast singing live with a 40-piece orchestra conducted by Family Guy composer Walter Murphy. Join MacFarlane and cast members Alex Borstein, Mila Kunis, Seth Green and Mike Henry for this unique, unpredictable and unforgettable musical experience.

"FAMILY GUY SINGS" will also feature a sneak peak of the eagerly anticipated Family Guy spin-off "The Cleveland Show".

Don't miss this chance to get the tickets first! Tickets are on sale now HERE.

Hugh Jackman Is Sexy!

Actor Hugh Jackman, 40, tops this year's Sexiest man list! People Magazine has awarded him with the much coveted 2008 Sexiest Man award! 40 is looking fabulous for the Australian actor! We're sure some Hollywood hunks are feeling the sting right about now while others were lucky enough to be join him in the ranks!

Jackman has been married for 12 years and has two kids with his wife, Deborra-Lee. How did she take to the news? On his wife’s response: God bless her, she said, “I could’ve told them that years ago!” And then she said, “Obviously, Brad wasn’t available this year.” And I said, “That was a joke, right?”

Other hotties who made the list: Daniel Craig, John Hamm, Zac Efron, Roebrt Buckley, Blair Underwood, Ed Westwick, Michael Phelps, Blake Shelton, Lang Lang, Mark-Paul Gosslear, Jaiver Bardem, Robert Pattinson and David Beckham.

His newest flick, Australia, hits screens next Wednesday Nov. 26.

Rock Overview in Five Minutes

Do you wish you knew more about rock music, but don't have the time to study up on everything? Have I got news for you. I was aimlessly procrastinating on the internet (my favorite past time) and I came across this video.

It's called the 25 most annoying voices in rock, but it's really a survey of the musical stylings of some of music's most influential performers... all set to Bohemian Rhapsody. It's very well put together and worth a good watch. Think of it as "The Evolution of Dance" for rock and roll. Enjoy!

New Music Video Wednesday!

Jesse McCartney is really growing up and making good videos these days. A cheesy tween singer no more! His latest single, "It's Over," has been out for awhile now we just found his new music video for the song and we're liking it! Breaking up never looked so good! It's a pretty cool video with some interesting special effects. "It's Over," is the follow-up single to his hit song “Leavin’.”

Jesse McCartney - It's Over - MySpace Premiere (HQ)

Just Sayin'...

Brad Pitt is appearing on the Oprah Winfrey show today! Pitt opens up to Oprah about partner Angelina Jolie and their six kids. The Curious Case of Benjamin Button costar Cate Blanchett will also be on the show. Here's a little preview of what Brad is talking about:

On how fatherhood has changed him: “[I'm] tough as nails. I’m impervious to poo, snot, urine, vomit. You can’t get me. You cannot break me down.”

On quick outings being a thing of the past: “We don’t go to the mall. It’s like a half-an-hour just to get everyone buckled in and make sure they’ve got their snacks, and Z.Z. [Zahara, 3] has got a blanket and Shiloh’s got her silky. Angie’s militant about it. She’s right on top of it. Thank God, because I’m always forgetting something.”

Kelly Osbourne Engaged!

Kelly Osbourne, 23, the daughter of rocker Ozzy Osbourne, is reportedly engaged to a male model, Luke Worrall, 18, whom she’s dated for six entire months. Oh, Kelly! The daughter of Ozzy and Sharon Osbourne has actually been wearing a ring on her wedding finger since September.

Worrall himself let the news out when he changed his Facebook online relationship status to "engaged to Kelly Osbourne." Gotta love Facebook, it's not official until it's on Facebook, right folks?!

Luke's profile page has now been flooded with congrats from friends and family.

GQ Men Of The Year 2008 (Sizzle, Sizzle!)

GQ magazine has published the list of GQ Men of the Year 2008. The four magazine covers are available on newsstands now and feature President-elect Barack Obama, Mad Men star Jon Hamm, leading man Leonardo DiCaprio and Olympic athlete Michael Phelps. We think these are some pretty impressive choices! Who is on your favorite cover?

The Real Thing or a Trick!

This image is rumored to be the first photo leaked from the set of Tim Burton's new Alice in Wonderland film. It is Johnny Depp as the Mad Hatter! I think he looks amazing, and the costuming definitely looks Burtonesque.

I ask you PCM reader's is this photo the real deal or just some photoshop magic?

No One Sips Hair, Girl

This post is dedicated to Monica Russo, my long-time friend, who knows nearly everything about me and still likes me. If we were 13 again, we would be getting a special thrill out of this post...matter of fact, I'm smiling wistfully about it now! This one's for you, Monnie. No one sips hair, girl!

Photo Credit: USA Today

Back in the day, you would never hear ANYTHING salacious about Jonathan Knight, the eldest New Kid on the Block (back in the day, it was Donnie Wahlberg -- now a serious, Steven Speilberg-directed actor -- and Jordan Knight -- who's just a steaming hot mess now -- who caused all the rabble-rousing), especially when it came to the ladies. There was that floating rumor about him and pop star Tiffany getting married (hey, I always thought they were a cute couple) but other than that...nothing.

Well, we know why that is now...because Jonathan recently came out of the closet. (You go, girl!) Now, Jonathan Knight and I have *two* things in common: we both like guys, AND we both have the same birthday (November 29th, in case anyone wants to find me a vegan, gluten-free, apple-carrot-zucchini-walnut cake)

Knight recently took to the NKOTB blog to proclaim his love for the only woman that will ever share a bed with him...his dog!
(NKOTB fans: Remember Nikko/Houston, the shar-pei?!?!?!)

He writes:

"It’s me once again! Driving to Denver Colorado tonight. It’s super cold
and windy tonight. I feel like the “rolling submarine” has become a
small plane in turbulence tonight. You know the feeling of driving down
the road and your car is being blown back and forth………the lights
are dimmed and everyone went to bed hours ago….someone from our camp
is over on the couch snoring in a deep sleep…..no, it isn’t
Jordan!!!!!!

Feels like it will be snowing any day now! The moon is full, it’s
5:30 am, I’m on some stretch of highway between Omaha and Denver,
feeling very delirious!

On nights like this back home, I love to light a fire in my bedroom,
slip into something comfortable after a warm bath and curl up in bed to
watch a movie……of course my favorite girl is always right next to
me…..I usually rub up and down her back telling her how much I love
her…….kissing her gently on her neck as we both drift off to
sleep…. her body has a way of fitting itself right up close to mine
like two pieces of a puzzle……. her silkie soft hair brushing
against my chest…….. her long legs stretched out in comfort……..
she always seems to wake me up at some point in the night…… she
looks me in the eyes without speaking a word………..I love her for
that…….She has the most beautiful eyes in the world…….she
usually rolls over so I can stroke her chest ever so gently……..this
gets her all wound up that she sometimes leaves a wet spot on our
sheets……. she’s even gone as far as letting a nasty smell out of
her tiny little ass! Then at that moment I break out the leather
studded collar and chain……I know at that moment it could get
freaky…… its nice and warm under the sheets……..Damn, should I
give her what she wants?………. Should I just roll over and do it in
the morning?………Oh damn, feels like the wet spot is getting
bigger!!!!!……..She has my full attention now…..hold on, hold on,
I’m gonna give her what she wants………. she is now barking orders
at me as she lets out a loud howling
noise…..OMG……OMG……OMG…….. DAMN…………time to walk
the dog!!!!!!!!

Maybe its time to get some sleep! Enjoy your day! I will so enjoy
mine……….DAY OFF……. don’t hound me till Friday…..
seriously!…. just keeping it real! HA! Hound me on here all you want
though…….. ENJOY!

with respect,
JK"

Do with that what you will...

I see your hair is burning, hills are filled with fire...

(with apologies to The Doors)

The Associated Press is reporting that the infamous Santa Ana winds (also known as the Santana winds) of Southern California -- referenced in literally thousands of places, including The Doors' "L.A. Woman" (lyric quoted above) -- is partially to blame for the fires that have destroyed thousands of homes.

And, now, we come to find out that actor Christopher Lloyd has just lost his home to the fires.

The 70 year-old former Back to the Future actor's eight-acre property burned to the ground when the fires broke out.

As for Lloyd, he was filming in Vancouver when the fire hit his house. Luckily, a caretaker was able to flee the property safely. But, his $6 million home was one of over 100 luxury properties that has since burned down.

As of today, around 5,400 homes have been evacuated from and 13 people have been injured.

And, scary enough, some residents were getting trapped at home.

Rob Lowe, the actor from The West Wing, told how he had to flee with his children as the fires were approaching his home. He also mentioned how his family stopped to check on neighbors and found some of them trapped behind their automatic car gates that were stuck due to the power shutting down.

Lowe told a local news reporter that, "Embers were falling. Wind was 70 miles an hour easily and it was just like Armageddon. You couldn't hear yourself think."

Part of Westmont College also burned down, causing students to spend the night in a gym shelter.

Our thoughts go out to the fire victims, fire fighters, and all of those who are working so hard to help out during such a devastating time.

Scarlet Johansson vs. Lindsay Lohan: It's ON!

Photo Credit: Bedazzled

Never knew that these two even knew of one another, let alone were in a feud, but...

US Magazine reports that Scarlett Johansson doesn't know why Lindsay Lohan doesn't like her.

"I really don’t know that person. I only met her, like, three times," says the actress, 23, who lost the lead role in The Parent Trap to Lohan when she was 13. (And, clearly, ScarJo is all the worse for it...[/sarcasm])

Lohan famously scrawled vulgar words about the actress on a Big Apple bathroom stall 2½ years ago. (Hint: The word rhymed with "runt").

"That's what I heard," Johansson says of the incident. "I don’t know what the motivation was behind that. I remember it was something really vulgar — I mean, shockingly so, like, 'Whoa, what, who are you?'"

Not everyone in Hollywood has a beef with the actress. Woody Allen once called Scarlet his muse (which, we'll remember, is what he also called Diane Keaton and Mia Farrow, and we see how well THOSE turned out...).

But the Vicky Cristina Barcelona star said, "I don't inspire that work that Woody does. I'm just lucky to fit into the 'young woman' category in his movies. But make no mistake, I know that if it wasn't me, it would be someone else."

Another Johansson fan? Katy Perry, who penned the tune "I Kissed a Girl" after her.

"I had no idea [about the song] -- I should get a cut!" she says. "That's flattering, but my lips are kind of taken."

Asked how she met husband Ryan Reynolds (whom she began dating last year), she says, "Nobody knows. It's private. It's our story."

Heather Locklear Officially Charged!

PHOTO CREDIT: EXPOSAY.COM

Our friends at TMZ.com have just confirmed that actress Heather Locklear has just been charged with one count of driving under the influence of drugs....prescription medications.

No alcohol and no illegal narcotics were found in Heather's system.

Santa Barbara County Deputy District Attorney Lee Carter tells us they believe the prescription medications found in her system "could have impaired her ability to safely drive a motor vehicle."

Which prescriptions, we wonder?!?!

Mariah Carey...MOMMY?!

PHOTO CREDIT: MP3LYRICS.COM

Reports keep circulating that Mariah Carey is finally pregnant by child-husband Nick Cannon.

So, could it be true?
Well...

Carey was spotted yesterday during a trip to Mexico relaxing outside her hotel room. And, quite shockingly, the usually scantily-clad Mimi was almost FULLY covered up!

Also of interest, while Nick was ordering tropical frozen drinks, Mariah had no alcoholic beverages on hand.

Makes you wonder!

Adam Sandler's Thanksgiving Song!

We heard this song on the radio today and realized that Thanksgiving is super close! It's such a good November classic, we wanted to remind you of this silly song from comedian Adam Sandler that's played on the airwaves every year around Thanksgiving! This year's big Turkey Day is less than two weeks away! What are your plans, PCM readers?

Another Celeb Divorce..

Debbie Matenopoulos, host of E!'s Daily 10, has separated from her husband of five years, music exec Jay Faires. Matenopoulos, a two time Emmy nominee and former co-host of The View is pretty upset! That's not even the worst of it though. Guess what happened? She apparently found out on the Internet along with his request to deny her spousal support. OUCH! People reports that she said:

"I am extremely saddened by the dissolution of my seven-year relationship with my husband. I am not a proponent of divorce and I believe in working things out. So you can only imagine my extreme sadness and disillusionment when I was informed of my husband's divorce proceedings, much like you were, by reading them online."

Obama's On Hannah Montana? (NOOOOO!)

Please let this be a rumor!

The children of President-Elect Barack Obama, Malia and Sasha, are rumored to be entering the world of entertainment. No, don't do it, girls! You'll end up like that horrible, Miley!

"We're pleased that Malia and Sasha are fans and, as long as their parents say it's OK, they are invited to the set of `Hannah Montana' and all Disney Channel shows, for a guest role or a visit, anytime," the Disney Channel said in a statement.

Billy Ray Cyrus told Access Hollywood this week that the adorable children have been invited to appear on a future episode of Hannah Montana.

"The invitation is there," Cyrus said, although an Obama insider denies knowledge of such an offer. "You know the Hannah Montana film comes out in April. Maybe something might happen around then."

Who's That Girl?

Would anyone like to explain the promotional photo, released to hype up Britney Spears' forthcoming album, Circus? Yep, that's Britney alright. Don't get us wrong here, we're total Britney fans! I'm rooting for her comeback 100% and she looks to be on the road to a re-vamped career! But this picture is just fake, fake, fake.

Britney shaved her head a while back, clearly this is not her real hair. She almost looks a bit like Jessica Simpson in this pic, no? Props to the graphic designer for their great airbrushing work here. Why couldn't they have gotten a really cool black and white natural picture of Britney or something? Oh wait, Brit doesn't do that type of stuff, no way! It's all glam, glam, glam!

PCM's Fierce Look Of The Day!

Former American Idol winner Carrie Underwood looked stunning as always as she co-hosted the Country Music Awards last week. We are feeling this flowy, pink gown that she wore to introduce a few presenters at the show. Underwood had at least 5 outfit changes during the ceremony, she wore tons of dresses! Her pretty in pink look makes for our PCM Picture of the Day!

Reviews from after the show said that she and Brad Paisley did an admirable job hosting the show this year. The two stars weren't corny and kept things moving. Good news for you, Miss Underwood!

Carmen Electra Signs Onto Playboy

PLAYBOY ALERT: Forget Holly, Bridget and Kendra. A new girl is back in town. Well, sort of. More than a decade after rising to fame by posing naked in the publication, Carmen Electra will don her birthday suit for the 55th anniversary issue of Playboy, due to hit newsstands on December 12.

Electra first posed for the magazine in 1996 which shot her to instant fame. We think it's actually a good choice for her, she's hot, and her movies certainly aren't anything worth writing home about so she may as well. Thoughts?

Manic Monday: Amy Winehouse

Further adding to my long-held belief that celebrities do a wonderful job of making themselves look foolish, and don't need my (or anyone else's) help to do so...

Last night, a photographer talked to her for around 6 minutes (above) about her divorce to Blake Fielder-Civil-Supreme-Circuit-Appeals Court or whatever his name is (she denies it) and her obsession with X-Factor (the British version). During her rambling, Winehouse even swore she wasn't drunk (actually, THAT I believe).

Winehouse talked about one X-Factor contestant the most: a 16-year-old kid named Eoghan Quigg. She said she likes his dad and her goddaughter likes the boy. They've even called him up. She didn't really say what they talked about, but the Mirror claims she's invited the boy for a wild night out with her.

A source said, “Amy wants to meet him whether he wins or loses. She’s a massive fan and thinks he’s cute. She told him he was doing well in the competition and to keep up all the good work. But she was also insistent that she wanted to meet up when he wasn’t rehear-sing – and Eoghan was up for it.”

Lord help these children...

Season 5 Of 'The Hills' Is A Go (Oh, Thank Heavens!)

Everyone can breathe a long sigh of relief! Ha! Audrina Patridge has confirmed that season five of The Hills is ready to go for MTV! We knew they couldn't walk away, they get paid way to much per episode to scrap it!

Audrina told People, “There is going to be a fifth season. We just found out. At one point, all of us were like, ‘No, we don’t want to do another season.’ I wanted to do more movies, and Whitney [Port] moved to New York and she’s doing her own spin-off. And Lauren Conrad]’s dating [My Boys actor] Kyle [Howard] but he can’t be on the show because he’s on another show, so that makes it hard.”

She also added, "We have fun with each other and we’ve stuck it out this long. We might as well do another one."

The Best-Written Songs of All Time # 100 - Tom's Diner

The best songs are often observational, and Suzanne Vega's observations that rainy morning at Tom's Diner tell so much more than the words indicate at our first listen. She tells us subtle details about her own life, the diner, it's employees, it's patrons. She has a job, or least somewhere to go after her shot of caffeine. The man pouring the coffee plays favorites, she tells us. She is trying to mind her own business, but her eyes wander inside and outside the goings-on in Tom's Diner.
(full article)

Britney Spears Like You've Never Seen Her..

This candid moment comes from Britney: For the Record, a documentary airing Sunday, Nov. 30, at 10 pm/ET, exclusively on MTV. She makes her pals laugh by poking fun of her dad. We certainly haven't seen Britney happy and fun-loving like this lately.



"I wanted to make this film because I started to feel like I wasn't being seen in the light that I wanted to be seen in," Spears has said of her involvement in the exposé. "This is an opportunity to set the record straight and talk about what I've been through and where I'm headed."

The 90- minute, all-access look at Spears' world includes behind-the-scenes looks at Britney recording her new album, Circus, preparing for her appearance at this year's MTV Video Music Awards, and much more.

Who wants some cake?

Love. Ain't it grand. Seeing such tenderness in pictures puts a ray of sunshine in my otherwise cold, black heart. It really does.

On Friday night in Paris, France, PETA volunteers dropped a bag of flour on Lindsay Lohan, and LiLo's girl-toy Samantha Ronson is none too pleased with this...so she did what any self-respecting woman would do and kvetched about it on MySpace.

If you want to read the whole thing (it's LOOOOOONG), click HERE, but here's the important parts:

PETA should focus their efforts on educating people on what they believe are injustices instead of seeking press via harassing those in the limelight. I received an apology too many days late from the PETA folks (the blog removal was too little too late) and today I'm pissed at the bag of flour thrown on Lindsay last night. Not because I got powdered down, but because the girl who threw it acted like an animal herself. I take that back, it's an insult to animals to group her in with them, my dog is FAR more civilized than that person. I would have more respect for them if they didn't use other people to get their point across. Lindsay, Mary Kate, Ashley Olsen, Anna Wintour and the rest of the targeted celebrities aren't the problem, I'm pretty sure they're not the only ones wearing fur, in fact, they should be appreciated by PETA for giving them a target. If it weren't for them, who would get them press?????

I know I'm probably going to get a lot of angry emails in response, but I don't really care. I got enough last week for no reason so I'm more than happy to ignore the nastiness after seeing what I saw last night. I'm not about to throw on a fur coat in retaliation, but had I had one within reach, I'm not sure I would have walked away from it.

p.s. when was the last time you saw an animal attack one of its own in defense of a human? hmmmmm..... that's one to grow on!

p.s.s. i think there are plenty of families that could have used that flour for a meal. nice job, lady.

That last phrase is kinda interesting...I mean, I'm a huge animal rights activist, and I certainly don't condone violence of any kind, but it's not like PETA threw flour, eggs, milk, and...who wants cake?

Sunday Special: Toby!

OK, seriously? Give this dog its own show.
Heck, this dog does more tricks than the Kardashian sisters!
(*ouch!*)

Not that I condone screaming at animals, or babies...but this commercial's funny!

Ahh! Justin Would Never Do Such A Thing!

Justin Timberlake is being sued by a busboy who works at his NYC barbecue restaurant! The lawsuit is claiming that JT doesn't treat his employees fairly, oh no! Would Justin ever do such a horrible thing like this?! We hope not. We've eaten at Southern Hospitality and thought it was pretty yummy, but we don't support restaurants that expect employees to work for free! Horrible!

The suit says Felipe Ramales (who filed the suit) and other staffers didn't get their proper share of a gratuity charge the restaurant automatically collected from parties with six or more diners. The busboy also says he worked more than 40 hours per week without getting overtime. Ouch! No good, Justin! Wonder what will happen. A manager at the restaurant is standing up for Justin and saying that the allegations are false and everyone has been paid what they're due!

Could Be Big Baby News...

Fall Out Boy rocker Pete Wentz, 29, just updated his official site with some interesting news! We'll keep you posted, but it looks like there may be a baby coming! Pete's wife of six months, Ashlee Simpson, 24, was due to have that kid any day now, she was getting huge! Wentz was supposed to appear on Larry King Live but this latest post explains why he had to cancel:

“Due to breaking news and scheduling conflicts, I will not be appearing on Larry King Live tonight, though I am a big fan of the show and look forward to appearing on it in the future. I also look forward to the chance to continue supporting civil rights and speaking out against the passing of Proposition 8 and others like it (I’m looking at you Arizona and Florida) whenever and wherever i can.”

Hmm, thoughts?

Joe Jonas Speaks Up!

He recently went through the breakup heard ‘round the world when he dumped Taylor Swift via mobile phone. Taylor Swift let everyone know what a crappy boyfriend Joe Jonas was. She wasn't shy about letting the media know that he dumped her. Now, after recent rumors that Jonas is boasting a brand new girlfriend, “10,000 BC” hottie Camilla Belle, (who starred in the Jonas Brothers’ video for their hit song “Lovebug”) is took to his blog to speak out against his growing bad boyfriend reputation!

Jonas addressed Swift's accusation that he broke up with her over the phone during a 27-second conversation. He writes: "For those who have expressed concern over the "27 second" phone call. I called to discuss feelings with the other person. Those feelings were obviously not well received. I did not end the conversation. Someone else did. Phone calls can only last as long as the person on the other end of the line is willing to talk. A phone call can be pretty short when someone else ends the call. The only difference in this conversation was that I shared something the other person did not want to hear.

To close, Jonas says he wishes "the best for the other person but could not sit back any longer and leave our fans with a wrong impression of the truth." He's taking some action! Are you on Team Joe or Team Taylor? Swift has probably gotten the best revenge of all, her new album that came out this week is doing amazingly well on the music charts!

The Live Feed Puppies

These adorable little pups are quickly becoming world famous! A San Francisco couple set up a web cam to keep an eye on their puppies during the day when they were away from home. They never expected that suddenly everyone would be tuning in to watch the puppies daily routine! We get to watch them sleep, play, sniff, and continue sleeping, and it is awesome. Believe me, it gets addictive....I keep "oohing" and "awwwing" every two mintues! This video is a great time killer and will definitely melt your heart!

Really, Whitney? REALLY?

PHOTO CREDIT: THAFEEDBACK.COM

When you think of Whitney Houston now, what do you think of? Teeth falling out? Playing an imaginary piano in an interview? "Crack is wack -- show me the receipts"? Bobby Brown telling their TV crew about "doody bubbles"?

Well, this photo won't help your perception. This is the supposed artwork for her new album, entitled "Undefeated." Either a) it's fake or b) Everyone at SonyBMG is on crystal meth. You make the call.

What's in a Name?

"Carruthers, Peregrine Carruthers" doesn't quite sound as well as "Bond, James Bond," but that is what author Ian Fleming was originally going to name his super-spy. He decided against it because he realized that exotic and fantastic things would be going on around Bond, so he needed a dull name to provide some balance. A name like Peregrine would blow any spy's cover.

If you think that is bad Walt Disney originally wanted to name his iconic toon Mortimer Mouse. He eventually changed the name to Mickey Mouse at the bequest of his wife. She didn't think kids would vibe well with the name. Apparently Disney didn't listen 100%. A new character appeared a few years after the introduction of Mickey named Mortimer. Never heard of him? There's a good reason.

It may not surprise you that Star Wars hero Luke Skywalker was originally named Annikin Starkiller. Before George Lucas had pounded out all the intricate details of Star Wars this character was a composite of Han Solo and Luke Skywalker. He was in the learning phase like Luke but had the cockiness of Han. Eventually the two broke but Lucas held onto the name Anakin for Luke's father. Luke was also named Justin Valor for a while in between the Starkiller and Skywalker phase. That name is a bit too cheesy.

So what's the point? People change names all the time - especially celebrities. Want to know some of their real names? Trust me some are embarrassing. Enjoy.


Chevy Chase - Cornelius Crane Chase
John Wayne - Marrion Morrison
Tom Jones - Thomas Jones Woodward
Cary Grant - Archie Leach
Audrey Hepburn - Edda Van Heemstra Hepburn
Tiger Woods - Elridge Tiger Woods
Fred Astaire - Frederick Austerlitz
Richard Burton - Richard Walter Jenkins Jr.
Queen Latifa - Dana Owens
Marilyn Monroe - Norma Jean Baker
Ringo Starr - Richard Starkey
Rodney Dangerfield - Jack Roy
Kid Rock - Bob Ritchie
Bob Hope - Leslie Towne Hope
Larry King - Lawrence Zeiger
Ludacris - Christopher Brian Bridges
Gene Simmons - Chiam Witz
Ice Cube - O'Shea Jackson
Madonna - Madonna Louise Veronica Ciccone
Lewis Carroll - Rev. Charles Lutwidge Dodgson

Woman Found Dead Outside Paula Abdul's Home

The body of a woman named Paula Godspeed was discovered several yards away from American Idol judge Paula Abdul's home. The woman was a previous contestant on American Idol and was ridiculed by the judges at her audition of the show back in 2006. Seems Godspeed, who suffers from a history of mental illness, was deeply hurt and angered by the judges reaction to her performance. Souces claim she developed an unhealthy obsession with Paul Abdul and was seen stalking Abdul's neighborhood. Just last year,, after a drug overdose in very close to the same spot, authorities were called in because Abdul feared for her safety.

Godspeed continued to lurk around the neighborhood and Abdul's neighbors thought she may have been a paparazzo! Godspeed's vehicle had a license plate that read "ABL LV" and a photo of Abdul that hung from her rearview mirror.

The cause of death for Godspeed appears to be suicide by drug overdoes. Paula Abdul is very shaken up over the entire situation and says her thoughts are with Godspeeds' family.
Here is her AI audition tape from 2006:

:

Lifestyles of the Dumb and Shameless...

PHOTO CREDIT: AskMen.com.

Speaking of class and elegance...

In a move that shocked no one except the lemmings living under a rock (OK, no one), US Magazine has confirmed that Adrienne Bailon (the Cheetah Girl recently involved in the latest "laptop stolen/nudie pix posted" imbroglio) and her "publicist" (Dirt Web blogger) Jonathan Jaxson leaked the story that racy shots were stolen from her laptop "purely to get attention."

In an interview with a local CBS affiliate, Jaxson confirmed they made up the scandal "to juice" things up. Added Jaxson (who helped Kim Kardashian through her own nude pic drama): "What better way to do that than to say that nude pictures could have been stolen from her laptop?"

Now, as anyone who knows me (either personally, or by following my writings for the past ten years) knows, I have ZERO tolerance for idiots, attention whores, skanks, and groupies of all shapes and sizes. I despise these weak, unintelligent people with the intensity of a thousand burning suns. Mere words cannot express how enraged I get when people, and especially women -- lacking in all other forms of intelligence and talent -- sell whatever meager dignity they have in the name of "fame," regardless of how tonsorial.

Obviously, this is the only way Adrienne Bailon can get attention. Apparently, the thought of her getting a JOB like the rest of us mere mortals never crossed whatever vestigal appendage passes for her "mind."

Adrienne Bailon deserves a special form of punishment because she went ON PUBLIC RECORD stating that a crime had been committed, and she had every intention of prosecuting the "offender." Well, newsflash, kiddo: filing false charges is AGAINST THE LAW in every state (and in some states, it's considered a FELONY). Not that you have anything to worry about in the prosecution department...I'm just saying...

It constantly amazes me how some people have absolutely no common sense, no sense of decency and no sense of how something like this will stigmatize them for the rest of their lives. Not that anyone EVER looked to this shameless moron as a fountain of wisdom, but now, Adrienne Bailon will NEVER be taken seriously.

Congratulations, Adrienne: you've been branded as an attention whore, and everything you do from this moment on will be marginalized. No matter what you do for the rest of your life, you'll always be thought of as that attention whore who lied to everyone to get a little bit of attention for a few days. I hope it was worth it, you idiot.

I wish Michelle Obama would beat this woman with one of her EasySpirit pumps...

First of all, Obama Girl, put that away. Seriously -- cellulite and silicone is not sexy by any warped standard. Second, leave that poor puppy alone. Thanks. Third, have you considered some form of therapy for your obsession? I'm just as yellow dog Dem as any other self-respecting New Yorker, but come on now...

"Obama Girl," possibly angling for an invite to the Inaugural Ball (and in that classy outfit, who could resist?), continues to show her irrelevance with her latest photo shoot.

My grandmother, may she rest in peace, used to say that the Gods look out for babies and idiots. And clearly, this one isn't a baby...

Whip It Out Wednesday: Brad Garrett

Speaking of class and elegance...



Now, as a celebrity photographer, let me explain something to the unknowing public: there is a HUGE difference between celebrity photographers and paparazzi.

Celebrity photographers have established, professional relationships with publicists, movie studios, music industry insiders, and even celebrities themselves. They are often invited to red-carpet events, concerts, and other fun outings to get exclusive photos for their respective press outlets. They are often on a first-name basis with several people in the entertainment field, and though their photos don't make untold amounts of money (on average, my photos make $100 each in the American market; a little higher in the European market due to the strength of the Euro. There are exceptions, of course, such as a 1/2 page photo that sold for $1,000, but for the most part, $100 is the magic number), they have amassed enough of a stock to continually collect residual checks, and make a decent living in doing so.

Paparazzi, on the other hand, are ALSO on a first-name basis with people...but for entirely different (and uncomplimentary) reasons. Paparazzi are the kind of photographers that toe the line of the law by stalking, harassing, and cat-calling their subjects, and who show no regard for the privacy of their children and/or other, non-famous family members. Yes, their photos make ridiculous amounts of money (the photographer who took the first upskirt shot of an underwearless Britney Spears made my mortgage payoff amount), but they're often at the receiving end of countless lawsuits, and never have I seen a paparazzo live in a house and/or apartment worth any sort of value.

But while I agree with Brad Garrett's assessment of paparazzi not having a "real" job, you have to laugh when you hear a "celebrity" (term used loosely in this case) complain about photographers not having a "real" job. Well, boo-freaking-hoo, Brad: first of all, you should be grateful people care about you to begin with. Second, your residual checks from Everybody Loves Raymond alone are enough to keep you comfortably for the rest of your natural life.

And what, precisely, is it that you do that's worthy of being called a "real" job? You "act" like Herman Munster? Puh-leeze.

GAMESTOP Wants To Make You A Guitar Hero!

Do you dream of being a rock star? GameStop can make that dream come true! GameStop announced a promotional sweepstakes featuring the prize of becoming a playable character in a future Guitar Hero game. The prize package includes round trip airfare and hotel accommodations in Los Angeles, a meeting with game developers, a photo shoot to have your likeness captured for your avatar in a future Guitar Hero game and $1,000 in spending money.

The site also features a section to unlock the 84-track vault early with your GameStop receipt, as well as a Rock Name Generator, a gallery of the greatest rock poses and more!


For more details and how to enter click here!

Contest runs from now until December 22, 2008!

Lil Wayne is on the hunt!

LIL WAYNE is searching for his Miss Carter and his next hit! Check out the widget below and vote on which WAYNE joint you love more "Comfortable" or "Mrs. Officer".
And to all the hot ladies, don't forget to click "Enter the King contest" for your chance to be the next Miss Carter...

King Magazine's The Search for Miss Carter:
Ladies 18 years old and over, submit a 30 second video to Lil Wayne on why YOU should be his Miss Carter. The top misses will be featured on King Mag.com. One lucky winner will also receive the Wayne star treatment with a night on the town in NYC, complete with a Maserati ride around Weezy's favorite spots including dinner at hot spot Mr. Chows. Enter today!

http://www.king-mag.com/

Whip it Out Wednesday: Sir Roger Moore

In honor of last night's Quantum of Solace benefit premiere, featuring Daniel Craig and his diamond-cutting blue eyes, let us pause and revel in the class and elegance that is Sir Roger Moore, the second James Bond, who may be older than God (OK, older than Jesus) but still exudes British charm.

Right.
Now that we're done with that...

At the London premiere of Quantum of Solace, Moore told Reuters that he was distressed with the "violent" turn that the 007 franchise has taken. (Was he expecting a Care Bears movie?)

“I am happy to have done it, but I’m sad that it has turned so violent,” Moore said.

He recalled being appalled at the violence in “A View to a Kill,” the 1985 movie which was the last of the seven in which he played Bond. “That wasn’t Bond,” he said.

While making “The Man With the Golden Gun,” director Guy Hamilton wanted Bond to be tougher and had him threaten to break Maud Adams’ character’s arm to get information, he writes. “That sort of characterization didn’t sit well with me, but Guy was keen to make my Bond a little more ruthless.

“I suggested my Bond would have charmed the information out of her by bedding her first. My Bond was a lover and a giggler, but I went along with Guy,” the British actor said.

Moore perfectly illustrates a common sentiment in Hollywood: it seems to be perfectly OK to depict mind-blowing (literally, mind-blowing) violence with illegal automatic weapons and no remorse or repercussions (Quantum of Solace is rated PG-13), but Gods forbid a woman takes her bra off...well, instant outcry and "R" rating! (And you'll sooner get hit by lightning than see a full-frontal male scene with a PG-13 rating)

Still, Moore makes an interesting observation: Sean Connery is viewed as the quintessential James Bond (it's the brogue, methinks) because anyone can see the tempered rage stewing just beneath the surface. Daniel Craig was accepted by Bond fans nearly immediately because he, like Connery, has the presence of cold-rolled steel (and those eyes, dear Gods!). Even Pierce Brosnan, the most recent Bond, had an air of a quiet storm. But Timothy Dalton's Bond was forgettable, mostly because he was so bland, and only the staunchest Bond fan will know the words "George Lazenby."

One look at Moore's Bond, however, and you can instantly see the template which Michael Meyers used for Austin Powers. Oy.

But never let it be said that Roger Moore is ungracious. Of Daniel Craig, Moore said, “Daniel has done one Bond and he was in ‘Munich’ and … he’s done a lot of stuff, but his face, after one Bond film, that’s all he needs. He is Bond.”

Britney On A Comeback! ...As a Parent!

Britney Spears and her Ex-Husband managed to co-parent in peace while the media looked on in astonishment today. The California media vultures hoping for Britney to fail again (this time as a parent) were let down when Britney admitted her two year old son Jayden to a Mississippi area hospital last evening. He was sick.

This was an auspicious occassion too, Britney had yet to take the children out of Los Angeles prior to this family trip.

To keep the press at bey, Keven Federline; whom has full custody of couples children issued a statement that he was impressed with Britney's response. "We're pleased that someone was aware enough to see that he (Jayden) was having some sort of reaction and do what was necessary to make sure there were no chances taken and got Jayden to the appropriate facility and got the apprpropriate evaluation to be timely"

OK, so it was clearly written by a lawyer but let's face it, in today's world parenting is serious business. Just ask Alex Baldwin.

Whip It Out Wednesday: Willie The Parrot

Stories like these put a rainbow in my otherwise cold, black heart...

Meet Willie the Parrot. His owner, Meagan, was baby-sitting two-year-old Hannah, when Hannah began choking on a Pop-Tart (I know, I wondered how too...).

Willie the Parrot, upon seeing this, starting flapping his wings and repeating, "Mama! Baby!" over and over again.

"While I was in the bathroom, Willie (the parrot) started screaming like I'd never heard him scream before and he started flapping his wings," said Meagan. "Then he started saying 'mama baby' over and over and over again until I came out and looked at Hannah and Hannah's face was turning blue because she was choking on her pop tart."

Fortunately, Meagan was able to rescue the toddler using the Heimlich maneuver.

"If anything happened to her, I don't know what I would do," said Samantha Kuusk, Hannah's mother. "I'm very grateful for the both of them because they both saved her."

Stephen Baldwin's New Tat

On a dare, Stephen Baldwin got Miley Cyrus's initials tattooed on his arm. Why? Because she dared him to.

The two met last year at the White House, where the 15-year-old Cyrus dared him to get the Hannah Montana initials tattooed on him. In return she would let him appear on the show since his daughters are huge fans of the series.

A few days ago, while they Cyrus's were in Nashville, Miley's sister heard that Baldwin was in town promoting his new book. Her entourage, including her mom, sister and boyfriend Justin Gaston, decided to suprise Baldwin at a book signing, where he showed her the HM tatooed on his arm. Miley conceded defeat and agreed to letting Balwin do a cameo on her show.

PCM's Fierce Look Of The Day!

Where has Mandy Moore been lately? We love her, she's a star that hasn't gotten into much trouble in front of the Hollywood cameras! We want to see another romantic comedy or even an album from the songbird.

There were rumors amidst that she and Adam "DJ AM" Goldstein reportedly found love again in September when Moore rushed to Goldstein's hospital bed following the horrific plane crash he and pal Travis Barker survived. Pals claim they have been inseparable ever since!

Her appearance at at H&M’s The Season’s Most Fashionable Gifts event last night makes for both our Fierce Look of the Day and PCM Picture of the Day! PCM is feeling the simple black blazer over the beige mini dress, very cute yet "not trying to hard" fall look she's got going on!

Lindsay Lohan's Comment.. Nay/Okay?

In an interview with 'Access Hollywood's' Maria Menounos, Lindsay Lohan expressed her pleasure at Barack Obama's election. Maria Menounos asks, regarding the announcement of Obama's victory, "Tell me what that night meant for you." Lindsay replies, "It was really exciting. It's an amazing feeling. It's our first colored president." We want your thoughts, is this okay?

Adam Sandler Welcomes New Baby!

Adam Sandler is a daddy again! The comedian, 42, and his wife Jackie, 34, have welcomed their second child, he announced yesterday.

"Jackie and Adam had a beautiful baby girl, Sunny Madeline on November 2," Sandler posted on his Web site. "Everyone is happy and healthy."

The couple also have another daughter, Sadies, who is 2 years old.

Nazis v. Zombies: Who's the Bigger Badguy?

We've been killing them since the moment the first person shooter was invented. Killing Nazis and Zombies is a way to let out your sadistic frustration. They're both the baddest of the bad, but who's the biggest baddie of them all? Let's take a look a the facts.

Kill Ease
Underneath all that Reich brainwashing the Nazis are still men. They can be killed by any wound. Although the do experiment with eugenics and create some near invincible super soldiers (remember Hans from Wolfenstein 3D?), given enough bullets they will die. Zombies are a bit harder to kill. Only a head shot will do it. You can pump an endless amount of lead into a Zombie, but if there's no head shot they'll keep on coming. This can be bad if there's a large group of them and you're aim stinks.

Intelligence
Zombies are dumb - really dumb. They are unorganized, reveal their position, make a lot of noise and only have one thing on their mind: brains. They don't care about their own well being, nor do they know any better. They just keep on coming until they get you or you kill them. It makes for a relentlessly dangerous enemy. The Nazis are complete opposites. They are very organized. They tend to sneak up on you and can organize attacks. They are also harder to kill because they realize their own mortality so they hide behind things. While Nazis attack like a military body, they do have one bad thing going for them. They're loud. They yell and give up their position as soon as they see you.

Weapons
Nazis are the master of weapons. They will shoot back with everything you have and more. They always have the best and newest weapons. Nine times out of ten at one point in the game you're trying to steal their new super weapon. Until you get that BFG you have to fight through their endless machine gun and Panserfaust fire - not fun. Zombies only possess one weapon, their mouth. Although they can't kill you at long range, that weapon will make more Zombies. What began as one Zombie can easily become hundreds. The Nazis don't have the capacity to regenerate more Nazis. A single Zombie bite is fatal. Even though you could potentially live on for a bit, the bite will eventually be fatal, so any physical contact with a Zombie is potentially fatal.

Apperance
Zombies just look bad. They're clothes are all in taters and so aer their skin. Everything is completely decayed. The Nazis on the other hand have an elegant look of villany. Simple yet effective.

Mobility
Nazis have many means to get around. They run, walk, drive or ambush you in a tank. If there's trouble they'll be there fast and sometimes weilding nearly unstoppable weapons. Zomies on the other hand always walk the same slow menacing speed. Slow and steady wins the... brains?

The Winner
Nazis move faster, are intellegent and have the best weapons. Zomies look badder, are virtually unstoppable (except for destroying the brain) and have the ablitiy to create an army of Zombies. Nazis will kill you with a big bang and Zombies will kill you with one bite. Who's the better villian?

Sorry Zombie fans, but I say Nazis. These World War II villans are better than their undead counterparts because of their intellegence. While Zombies are physically repulsive and their attacks virulent, the Nazis equally match if not best the protagonist. They're basically you with better weapons. So why does the player always win? Simple - in the super effecient Nazi world the confusion of a single attacking outsider messes everything up. And that gives you the advantage.

New Movie Tuesday: Quantum of Solace!

Hey PCMers...

Just got back from the Tribeca Film Institute Benefit Screening of Quantum of Solace, the new James Bond escapade starring Daniel Craig as Agent 007!

Be sure to check the main page for exclusive photos from the premiere, as well as a write-up of the awesome night!

And let me say...Daniel Craig...


...SWOON!

Taylor Swift Reveals Joe Jonas Inspired Song!

Country teen star Taylor Swift revealed on The Ellen DeGeneres Show that the song on her new album, "Forever & Always," was inspired by her break-up with Jonas Brother, Joe Jonas. Taylor's new CD, Fearless, is in stores now! She's such a clean little Hollywood role model, we love her! Go get her CD! Check out the lyrics to her son:

Once upon a time, I believe it was a Tuesday when I caught your eye
and we caught onto something
I hold onto the night, you looked me in the eye and told me you loved me

Were you just kidding?
cause it seems to me, this thing is breaking down
we almost never speak
I dont feel welcome anymore
baby what happened, please tell me?

Cause one second it was perfect, now youre halfway out the door

And I stare at the phone, he still hasnt called
and then you feel so low you cant feel nothing at all
and you flashback to when he said forever and always
oh, and it rains in your bedroom
everything is wrong
it rains when youre here and it rains when youre gone
cause I was there when you said forever and always

Was I out of line?
Did I say something way too honest, made you run and hide
like a scared little boy
I looked into you in the eyes
thought I knew you for a minute, now Im not so sure

so heres everything coming down to nothing
heres to silence that cuts me to the core
where is this going? Thought I knew for a minute, but I dont anymore

And I stare at the phone, he still hasnt called
and then you feel so low you cant feel nothing at all
and you flashback to when he said forever and always
oh, and it rains in your bedroom
everything is wrong
it rains when youre here and it rains when youre gone
cause I was there when you said forever and always
you didnt mean it baby, I dont think so

Back up, baby, back up
did you forget everything
Back up, baby, back up
did you forget everything

Cause it rains in your bedroom
everything is wrong
it rains when youre here and it rains when youre gone
cause I was there when you said forever and always

Oh, I stare at the phone, he still hasnt called
and then you feel so low you cant feel nothing at all
and you flashback to when we said forever and always

and it rains in your bedroom
everything is wrong
it rains when youre here and it rains when youre gone
cause I was there when you said forever and always
you didnt mean it baby, you said forever and always I dont think so yeah

'Father Hood' Is Back!

E! BRINGS FAMILIES TOGETHER FOR LAUGHS THANKSGIVING WEEKEND WHEN THE SECOND SEASON OF "SNOOP DOGG'S FATHER HOOD" PREMIERES SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 30th AT 10:30 P.M., ET/PT!

Viewers will catch up with his wife Boss Lady (Shanté) who really rules the roost; 14-year-old son and star athlete Spank (Cordé); 11-year-old son Rook (Cordell) who's all about the benjamins; precocious 9-year-old Choc (Cori), the ultimate daddy's girl; and 22-year-old Anthony, Snoop's hairstylist's son who was "adopted" in to the family and helps keep the kids in line, while acting like a big kid himself. Check out the new season!

A Christina Aguilera/Lady Gaga Feud Brewing

Is another celeb feud brewing? This is a picture of pop newcomer, Lady Gaga. She does look a lot like Christina Aguilera and lots of media outlets have made comparisons between the two. When asked in a recent interview what she thought about Lady Gaga (PCM Interview) , Christina was very honest and didn't hold back.

What did you say to those on the Internet who are hinting that you borrowed Lady Gaga’s look?

You know, that’s funny that you mention that. This person [Lady Gaga] was just brought to my attention not too long ago. I’m not quite sure who this person is, to be honest. I don’t know if it is a man or a woman. I just wasn’t sure. I really don’t spend any time on the Internet, so I guess I live a little under a rock in that respect.

PCM's Fierce Look Of The Day!

No wonder she nabbed Justin Timberlake. Recently, whenever we've seen Jessica Biel, she looks like us normal people walking down the street or catching a cab. But she cleaned up super nice for an event honoring Australian film director Baz Luhrmann at the MoMa film benefit gala at the Museum of Modern Art on Monday in New York City. She makes a plain ol' strapless black dress look fierce!

Speaking of Baz Luhrmann, his latest flick, Australia, is getting a lot of buzz and Oprah has sang its praises on her show recently. It comes out in theaters right around Thanksgiving! Get excited!

R.I.P Gus

All dogs go to heaven. Gus, the winner of the prestigious World's Ugliest Dog 2008 contest, has died.

Gus, a Chinese crested who had one eye and three legs, won the title of World's Ugliest Dog this summer. According to the St. Petersburg Times in Florida, Gus had cancer. He was 9.

Gus was rescued from a bad home and went on to win the annual World's Ugliest Dog contest at the Sonoma-Marin Fair in northern California. We'll miss you, pal!

Twilight Mayhem

Several kids were trampled outside of a mall in San Francisco, CA while waiting for a meet and greet with Twilight star and new teen heart-throb Robert Pattinson. There were nearly 3,000 anxious teens in the mob that was ten times larger than event officials planned. One teen suffered a broken nose and several other fainted. The event at the San Francisco mall had to be cancelled and will not be rescheduled. The Twilight mall tour is being run by Hot Topic and Pattison is expected to continue with the rest of the stops at other malls across the country.Remember there are only 500 passes available per store! It is rumored that fans are beginning to camp out at early as 3:30am to secure there spot in line, let's just hope that they get things under control and the mayhem in San Francisco does not get repeated.

35th Annual people's Choice Awards January 7, 2009

The nominations for THE 35TH ANNUAL PEOPLE'S CHOICE AWARDS were announced this morning by Joshua Jackson "Fringe," Carrie Ann Inaba "Dancing with the Stars," Paula Marshall "Gary Unmarried" and Jay Mohr "Gary Unmarried." New categories this year include "Favorite Superhero," "Favorite TV Drama Diva," "Favorite Movie Cast" and "Favorite Scene Stealing Guest Star."

Winners will be revealed during the live broadcast of THE 35TH ANNUAL PEOPLE'S CHOICE AWARDS which will be hosted by Queen Latifah from the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles Wednesday, Jan. 7, 2009 (9:00-11:00 PM, ET/delayed PT) on the CBS Television Network. The first awards show of 2009, THE 35TH ANNUAL PEOPLE'S CHOICE AWARDS honors fan favorites in television, movies and music.
(Full List HERE)

The 35th Annual people's Choice Awards Will Be Hosted by Queen Latifah January 7, 2009 on CBS
Voting Begins Today at pcaVOTE.com

PEOPLE magazine, in celebration of its own 35th birthday, will team up with People's Choice to present the first ever People's Choice Award for Favorite Star Under 35, in recognition of this dual milestone. Beginning today www.pcaVOTE.com and www.people.com will exclusively feature this unique poll, giving fans the opportunity to choose their favorite star, under the age of 35, by narrowing down from a group of Hollywood's biggest celebrities, chosen by PEOPLE's editors.

Favorite Star 35 and Under:
Amy Adams
Drew Barrymore
Beyonce
Orlando Bloom
Chris Brown
Chace Crawford
Miley Cyrus
Leonardo DiCaprio
Zac Efron
America Ferrara
Ryan Gosling
Jake Gyllenhaal
Anne Hathaway
Scarlett Johansson
Angelina Jolie
Alicia Keys
Keira Knightley
John Krasinski
Shia LaBeouf
Blake Lively
John Mayer
Eva Mendes
Daniel Radcliffe
Rihanna
Taylor Swift
Justin Timberlake
Carrie Underwood
Usher
Milo Ventimiglia
Pete Wentz
Kanye West
Reese Witherspoon

Listen To Beyonce's Album Before Anyone Else!

This is big news, PCM readers!

"I am happy that my fans will get to listen to my new album first at MySpace. I have put my heart and soul into 'I AM...SASHA FIERCE' and cannot wait to hear the feedback from the fans." -- Beyonce

MySpace Music is proud to announce the worldwide premiere of the highly anticipated new album from Beyonce. The album titled “I AM...SASHA FIERCE” will be available on MySpace Music at www.myspace.com/music beginning on Tuesday, November 11 at 12:01am PST. MySpace users worldwide can listen to the entire album for free on MySpace Music a week before its officially released anywhere else. Check out Beyonce's page for her latest music, videos and more at http://www.myspace.com/beyonce.

Photo credit: Peter Lindbergh

Too Good To Pass Up

Ellen Albertini Dow, the “Rapping Granny” in The Wedding Singer and the fiery grandma in Wedding Crashers, is turning 90 years old on November 26th. We totally love her, she's given us so many good laughs, she's the best in Wedding Crashers!

She’s still going strong in Hollywood and has starred in many upcoming movies and TV shows including a Chevy Chase spoof on Titanic and According to Jim with Jim Belushi. To celebrate her birthday, Ellen’s rapping again for the first time since her famous rendition of Rapper’s Delight.

Weekend Box Office Stats

Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa scored the top spot at the box office this weekend, earning $63.5 million and winning the record for best opening of the year for a family cartoon. Role Models, starring Paul Rudd and Seann William Scott came in second with $19.3 million. Madagascar 2 has been getting great reviews. It is the rare sequel that rises above the original. The main characters from the first movie are all back, along with the original voice actors (plus a few new ones, including the late Bernie Mac), but the story and jokes are refreshingly new and different. Read the entire review here.

Father-Son Bonding Time

David Beckham is a normal dad, just 50x hotter than any we've seen lately! He took his eldest son Brooklyn to a LA Lakers game at the Staples center over the weekend. Becks is a good luck charm for the Lakers, they won last night, continuing their undefeated streak.

David and his son took in the game together and shared a cute moment courtside that the lucky papz caught at the right moment. So adorable, what a great family! Very cute.

Lost Is Coming Back!

HUGE ANNOUNCEMENT FOR LOST FANS:

Just in case you haven't heard the official word. The new season of Lost is back and premieres officially on Wednesday, Jan. 21, 2009, at 8 p.m. So super exciting!

We can't wait, there are so many things we need to find out about Jack, Sawyer, Kate and the rest of the gang on and off the island! It will be a 2 hour event, with a recap show followed by the 1 hour premiere of the new season!

What Remains Of Danity Kane ...

We found this picture floating around the Internet and wanted to re-post it on our blog. Danity Kane looks pretty weird with just the three singers left in the band. No more Aubrey and D Woods for us! Diddy gave them the boot at the end of the latest season of Making The Band. Do you think there's a future left for the new trio or will things just never be the same?

We heard that the remaining members, Aundrea Fimbres, Dawn Richard, and Shannon Bex have refused to sign on for another season of Making the Band. What could that mean? Will they not agree to do another season unless the other girls come back? Who knows... many questions we need answered concerning the future of Danity Kane!

Spears' Son Hospitalized In Mississippi

This time it wasn't Britney that was being omitted into the hospital for her erratic behavior. She made an unexpected trip to the emergency room this weekend while she was visiting her family with her sons in her hometown of Kentwood, LA.

This visit home was the first time that Britney was able to take her sons out of the state of California. Spears' youngest son, Jayden, was rushed to the emergency room on Sunday afternoon.

There's no official word on the reason for Jayden's admittance, reports are circulating that he suffered a seizure. TMZ reports that the little guy ate something that didn't agree with him.

Britney's brother, Bryan, and her other son, Sean Preston, accompanied by a nanny, were also seen exiting Southwest Mississippi Regional Medical Center—the same hospital, coincidentally, where Jamie Lynn Spears gave birth this year.

UPDATE: PEOPLE confirms that Jayden was indeed rushed to Southwest Mississippi Regional Medical Centre, but reports that it was due to an allergic reaction and that "he's doing fine," according to a source.

Wedding Bells for Wilkinson!

First Holly Madison and Criss Angel go public and now another former Hefner girlfriend is taking it a step further and has a ring around her finger!

Kendra Wilkinson of The Girls Next Door is engaged to football star, wide receiver for the Philadelphia Eagles, Hank Baskett, according to her ex-boyfriend Hugh Hefner, who plans to give her away at a ceremony at the Playboy Mansion.

"[She] has met someone who she would like to spend the rest of her life with," Hefner said in a statement on Thursday.

"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," the statement adds.

Geez, that was so fast. It makes me wonder if the girls were allowed to date people on the side while they were with Hef. Maybe she's been dating this footballer for years and we never knew it! But, this is Hollywood we're talking about, so they could have just met and decideded to get hitched after a month! *Sniff, sniff* Do I smell a publicity stunt in the air?

This May Ruin Her Image..

Adrienne Bailon, the eldest member of the pop group The Cheetah Girls, might be the next Disney chick with some naked pics about to go public on the Internet.

The 25-year-old singer's laptop was stolen in late October while the singer was waiting for a flight at JFK International Airport in New York, according to TMZ. When she discovered the computer was MIA, she filed a report with the Port Authority.

Later that day, her record label received an anonymous phone call from a man saying he’d return her laptop if he got $1,000.

A meeting was set up at JFK with the anonymous man, where he was given the money and in exchange returned Bailon’s missing laptop, but the nude pics of the singer were missing from the computer.

Bailon had reportedly taken the racy pics as an anniversary present for her BF, Robert Kardashian. Kardashian is the famous little brother of Kim Kardashian and is seen on the E! reality show with his family, Keeping Up With The Kardashians.

Strangely enough, Kim was also involved in a sex tape scandal a few years ago, looks like trouble is following this group everywhere. We hope for Bailon's sake that they can get it cleared up before her squeaky clean image is shot to hell!

Manic Monday: Adrienne Bailon

If you've never heard of Adrienne Bailon of the Cheetah Girls, you have now, thanks to some pictures of her naked ass that were conveniently "stolen" from her laptop (y'know, I've left my laptop in more places than I can count, and it's ALWAYS been returned to me, contents untouched! How the HELL is it that every time a celebrity's laptop gets "stolen," there are pictures and phone numbers and Gods know what else posted everywhere? For that matter, how aren't their bank accounts emptied on sight?).

Adrienne claims the pictures were only meant for her true love Robert Kardashian (brother of Kim).

Her spokesman, Jonathan Jaxson (who also runs a gossip blog -- how convenient), issued this statement to TMZ:

"The photos that have surfaced of Adrienne Bailon were stolen from her laptop over a week ago at an airport in NY and sent to several media outlets. These photos were taken in private. Adrienne will be pursuing legal action against the person or person's sending these private photos out. Adrienne is deeply sorry for any pain this may have caused to her fans."

And in the fine tradition of the pot calling the kettle black, you might remember that Adrienne was the first to come out against fellow Disney starlet Vanessa Hudgens when her set of nudie pics surfaced. Adrienne's catty remark was, "*I* keep my clothes *on*..." Yeah, I'll bet.

And I'm sure I'm not the only one who sees the one degree of separation between herself and Kim Kardashian, the Queen of Trashy Do-Nothing "Fame." Kardashian's father, you'll remember, was one of the team of OJ Simpson's original defense lawyers...the ones who helped him get away with murder with their race baiting and hate mongering.

Manic Monday, indeed.

PCM Movie Recommendation

It came and went from the public's radar and didn't receive wonderful reviews from RottenTomatoes but we just saw the movie, How To Lose Friends & Alienate People and found it quite entertaining! How to Lose Friends & Alienate People tracks the escapade of Sidney Young (Simon Pegg), a small time, bumbling, aspiring British celebrity journalist who is hired by an upscale magazine in New York City. Kirsten Dunst and Megan Fox also star in this quirky little comedy. Go check it out if you are curious, it will definitely give you a few laughs.