Mike Gray Dies, One of the co-writers on the Oscar-nominated film "The China Syndrome," passed away on Tuesday (April 30) of heart failure in his Hollywood Hills home, his family tells the Los Angeles Times. The author, activist and documentarian was 77.
Gray began working on "The China Syndrome," a 1979 film about a cover-up at a nuclear power plant, after reading books and speaking with scientists about the dangers of nuclear power. His film proved incredibly timely: Three weeks after the movie opened, a nuclear actor at Three Mile Island in Pennsylvania went into partial meltdown.
Gray, who co-wrote the film with T.S. Cook and James Bridges, told the Chicago Tribune in 1998, "I meant 'China Syndrome' to educate people about what I'd found ... that our heavy reliance on nuclear plants hadn't been clearly thought through."
At the time of his death, he was working on a still-untitled documentary about former Black Panther and Houston community organizer Robert E. Lee III.
Gray is survived by his wife, Carol, and their son, Lucas.
Home » Archives for 05/03/13
Friday, May 3, 2013
Jurassic Park 4 Location
Jurassic Park 4 Location, They ruled the cinematic landscape in 1993 when they appeared in one of the top-grossing films of all time.Now, Stephen Spielberg's CGI dinosaurs are set to return in Jurassic Park IV, which is due for release next year.
And the recently chosen director of the film has just tweeted the very first picture from behind-the-scenes.Without giving away too much, the director simply captioned the picture 'Nublar' the name of the fictional Isla Nublar near Costa Rica's Pacific Coast, where the first film took place.
It does suggest however, that the latest addition to the franchise will take place back in the original park, which had closed down in the sequel - The Lost World - when the story moved to Isla Soma, known as 'Site B' where the dinosaurs had been originally engineered and nurtured.The real location of Isla Nublar is Hawaii's Kualoa Ranch, where parts of the original film were shot.
The first Jurassic Park tells the story of a billionaire philanthropist played by Richard Attenborough, 89, who along with a team of genetic scientists create a wildlife park of cloned dinosaurs.Last month, the film was re-released in 3D and proved as popular as ever earning an impressive $18.2m in its first weekend at the North American box office alone.
Rumours of the highly-anticipated fourth film began in 2008, when original director Stephen Spielberg was said to be 'kicking around' ideas for a reboot.The latest installment will be a big project for director Colin Trevorrow, whose only feature film to date is the indie comedy Safety Not Guaranteed.
However, the director has stellar support from the scriptwriters Rick Jaffa and Amanda Silver, who wrote the 2011 film Rise of the Planet of the Apes.And Stephen Spielberg himself is also producing the film along with seasoned professionals Frank Marshall and Patrick Crowley.
Filming on the project is set to start in June this year with a summer 2014 cinema release date penciled in.
No major casting news has yet to be announced.
And the recently chosen director of the film has just tweeted the very first picture from behind-the-scenes.Without giving away too much, the director simply captioned the picture 'Nublar' the name of the fictional Isla Nublar near Costa Rica's Pacific Coast, where the first film took place.
It does suggest however, that the latest addition to the franchise will take place back in the original park, which had closed down in the sequel - The Lost World - when the story moved to Isla Soma, known as 'Site B' where the dinosaurs had been originally engineered and nurtured.The real location of Isla Nublar is Hawaii's Kualoa Ranch, where parts of the original film were shot.
The first Jurassic Park tells the story of a billionaire philanthropist played by Richard Attenborough, 89, who along with a team of genetic scientists create a wildlife park of cloned dinosaurs.Last month, the film was re-released in 3D and proved as popular as ever earning an impressive $18.2m in its first weekend at the North American box office alone.
Rumours of the highly-anticipated fourth film began in 2008, when original director Stephen Spielberg was said to be 'kicking around' ideas for a reboot.The latest installment will be a big project for director Colin Trevorrow, whose only feature film to date is the indie comedy Safety Not Guaranteed.
However, the director has stellar support from the scriptwriters Rick Jaffa and Amanda Silver, who wrote the 2011 film Rise of the Planet of the Apes.And Stephen Spielberg himself is also producing the film along with seasoned professionals Frank Marshall and Patrick Crowley.
Filming on the project is set to start in June this year with a summer 2014 cinema release date penciled in.
No major casting news has yet to be announced.
Lil Wayne Dropped
Lil Wayne Dropped, Three days after Mountain Dew pulled a racially-insensitive advert featuring a goat voiced by Tyler, The Creator - the embattled company has just dropped Lil Wayne as spokesman.
According to TMZ, PepsiCo decided to can the 30-year-old New Orleans rapper on Friday after he 'unapologetically' compared the beating of civil rights icon Emmett Till to rough sex.The four-time Grammy winner, who's fronted the soft drink since last year, came under fire in February for his verse in Odd Future's song Karate Chop.
Lil Wayne rapped: 'Pop a lot of pain pills/'bout to put rims on my skateboard wheels/beat that p***y up like Emmett Till.'The heavily-tattooed rapper, born Dwayne Michael Carter, Jr., deeply angered the Emmett Till's family who rejected his apology letter for his refusal to write 'I am sorry.'
Airickca Gordon-Taylor was Till's cousin and serves as the executive director of the Mamie Till Mobley Memorial Foundation.
She told TMZ on Wednesday: 'While it’s commendable that he has vowed to respect the legacy of Emmett Till and his memory to "not use or reference Emmett Till or the Till family in his music," this statement falls short of an apology, as none is mentioned.'
Gordon-Taylor said the family want the platinum-selling MC to understand how his comparison of a sex act to the Chicago native's torture death in Mississippi is hurtful to the black community.'It was a heinous murder,' Gordon-Taylor said. 'He was brutally beaten and tortured, and he was shot, wrapped in barbed wire and tossed in the Tallahatchie River.
'The images that we're fortunate to have (of his open casket), they demonstrate the ugliness of racism.
'So to compare a woman's anatomy - the gateway of life - to the ugly face of death, it just destroyed me. And then I had to call the elders in my family and explain to them before they heard it from some another source.'
His death became a symbol of the inequalities faced by the African-American population in society and the legal system.
Till was just 14 when he went to Mississippi to visiting family when he was killed for flirting with a white woman in 1955.He was beaten, had his eyes gouged out and was shot in the head before his assailants tied a cotton gin fan to his body with barbed wire and tossed his body into a river.
Two white men, including the woman's husband, were acquitted of the killing by an all-white jury.Only months later, protected from being re-tried due to double jeopardy, the killers admitted in a magazine article that they had indeed murdered the teen.
Till's body was recovered and returned to Chicago where his mother, Mamie Till, insisted on having an open casket at his funeral.The pictures of his battered body and the trial were were early flashpoints in the civil rights movement.
Bob Dylan even wrote a song about it: 'The Death of Emmett Till.'
According to TMZ, PepsiCo decided to can the 30-year-old New Orleans rapper on Friday after he 'unapologetically' compared the beating of civil rights icon Emmett Till to rough sex.The four-time Grammy winner, who's fronted the soft drink since last year, came under fire in February for his verse in Odd Future's song Karate Chop.
Lil Wayne rapped: 'Pop a lot of pain pills/'bout to put rims on my skateboard wheels/beat that p***y up like Emmett Till.'The heavily-tattooed rapper, born Dwayne Michael Carter, Jr., deeply angered the Emmett Till's family who rejected his apology letter for his refusal to write 'I am sorry.'
Airickca Gordon-Taylor was Till's cousin and serves as the executive director of the Mamie Till Mobley Memorial Foundation.
She told TMZ on Wednesday: 'While it’s commendable that he has vowed to respect the legacy of Emmett Till and his memory to "not use or reference Emmett Till or the Till family in his music," this statement falls short of an apology, as none is mentioned.'
Gordon-Taylor said the family want the platinum-selling MC to understand how his comparison of a sex act to the Chicago native's torture death in Mississippi is hurtful to the black community.'It was a heinous murder,' Gordon-Taylor said. 'He was brutally beaten and tortured, and he was shot, wrapped in barbed wire and tossed in the Tallahatchie River.
'The images that we're fortunate to have (of his open casket), they demonstrate the ugliness of racism.
'So to compare a woman's anatomy - the gateway of life - to the ugly face of death, it just destroyed me. And then I had to call the elders in my family and explain to them before they heard it from some another source.'
His death became a symbol of the inequalities faced by the African-American population in society and the legal system.
Till was just 14 when he went to Mississippi to visiting family when he was killed for flirting with a white woman in 1955.He was beaten, had his eyes gouged out and was shot in the head before his assailants tied a cotton gin fan to his body with barbed wire and tossed his body into a river.
Two white men, including the woman's husband, were acquitted of the killing by an all-white jury.Only months later, protected from being re-tried due to double jeopardy, the killers admitted in a magazine article that they had indeed murdered the teen.
Till's body was recovered and returned to Chicago where his mother, Mamie Till, insisted on having an open casket at his funeral.The pictures of his battered body and the trial were were early flashpoints in the civil rights movement.
Bob Dylan even wrote a song about it: 'The Death of Emmett Till.'
Obama Blames Drugs
Obama Blames Drugs, Speaking in Mexico on Friday, President Barack Obama blamed U.S. gun manufactures for the violence in the country, adding that much of it stems from the American demand for illegal drugs.
“Much of the root cause for violence that has been happening here in Mexico, for which so many Mexicans have suffered, is the demand for illegal drugs in the United States,” Obama said during a speech at Mexico’s Anthropology Museum
He then turned his attention to U.S. gun owners and gun control.
“Most of the guns used to commit violence here in Mexico come from the United States,” Obama said. “I think many of you know that in America, our Constitution guarantees our individual right to bear arms. And as president, I swore an oath to uphold that right, and I always will.”
“But at the same time, as I’ve said in the United States, I will continue to do everything in my power to pass common-sense reforms that keep guns out of the hands of criminals and dangerous people,” he added.
“That can save lives here in Mexico and back home in the United States. It’s the right thing to do,” Obama said.
“Much of the root cause for violence that has been happening here in Mexico, for which so many Mexicans have suffered, is the demand for illegal drugs in the United States,” Obama said during a speech at Mexico’s Anthropology Museum
He then turned his attention to U.S. gun owners and gun control.
“Most of the guns used to commit violence here in Mexico come from the United States,” Obama said. “I think many of you know that in America, our Constitution guarantees our individual right to bear arms. And as president, I swore an oath to uphold that right, and I always will.”
“But at the same time, as I’ve said in the United States, I will continue to do everything in my power to pass common-sense reforms that keep guns out of the hands of criminals and dangerous people,” he added.
“That can save lives here in Mexico and back home in the United States. It’s the right thing to do,” Obama said.
Longtime coach shot
Longtime coach shot, A longtime basketball coach from Detroit was shot and killed on Tuesday night in an apparent drive by before midnight near the 11500 block of Petoskey, according to the Detroit News.
The report says that 54-year-old Charles Knott was killed on Tuesday night when another car pulled alongside of his and shot into him multiple times. According to police, so far no motive has been uncovered and the coach was the longtime girls varsity basketball coach at Detroit Cody for 20 years and he was on his way to retirement. No arrests have been made in the shooting yet.
Some friends speculated it may have been a robbery, but all were upset at what happened when they found out on Wednesday. Knott previously was the education technical director at Cody and then went to Detroit King last year.
"It's a shame," said Donald Anderson, the football coach at Cody. "Coach Knott took pride in his job. A lot of people don't know but he also coached softball, too. Many of his former players kept in contact with him, some on a daily basis. He was the kind of guy who would make sure his players did their chores at home. He cared about them."
The report says that 54-year-old Charles Knott was killed on Tuesday night when another car pulled alongside of his and shot into him multiple times. According to police, so far no motive has been uncovered and the coach was the longtime girls varsity basketball coach at Detroit Cody for 20 years and he was on his way to retirement. No arrests have been made in the shooting yet.
Some friends speculated it may have been a robbery, but all were upset at what happened when they found out on Wednesday. Knott previously was the education technical director at Cody and then went to Detroit King last year.
"It's a shame," said Donald Anderson, the football coach at Cody. "Coach Knott took pride in his job. A lot of people don't know but he also coached softball, too. Many of his former players kept in contact with him, some on a daily basis. He was the kind of guy who would make sure his players did their chores at home. He cared about them."
1992 cold case arrest
1992 cold case arrest, Oklahoma authorities said Thursday that bodies found last month in a hole initially dug for a septic tank were likely those of three females missing since 1992 and that police had arrested a man who sprinkled black pepper on the impromptu grave in an apparent attempt to cover any odor.
Remains found beneath 8 feet of dirt near Jennings were likely those of Wendy Camp, 23; her daughter Cynthia Britto, 6; and Lisa Kregear, 22, who was Camp's sister-in-law, the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation said. Clothing, a backpack and a purse found in the hole matched items the women had when they disappeared May 29, 1992.
Grover J. Prewitt Jr., 60, of Bristow, used to own the land where the bodies were found and was charged Thursday with being an accessory after the fact of first-degree murder. Investigators said he told them that he suspected in 1992 that the three were in the hole and said he spread pepper in the area at his mother's request.
Prewitt's nephew had been married to Camp and was in a custody dispute with her around the time of her disappearance, according to the investigators.
In late March, Prewitt told investigators that, around the time the three disappeared, his sister Beverly asked him to hire a backhoe driver to dig a hole for a septic tank on 5 acres that their mother was buying from him. The hole sat empty for a bit, then after the three went missing his mother, Ida Prewitt, asked him to have the backhoe driver fill the hole. Ida Prewitt never moved onto the property and later sold it.
"Grover never looked in the hole after the girls went missing because he was scared of what he would see," agent Melissa Gann wrote in an affidavit filed in Creek County Court.
Five days after his initial meeting with police, Prewitt met again with investigators and told one "he really needed to look in that hole." On April 16, crews found three bodies.
In an interview with police on April 22, he recalled his mother asking him to sprinkle black pepper on the area.
"He told her he thought that was 'awful damn strange.' She said it would 'deter dog scents.' Grover did not question her on that matter and did as he was asked," Gann wrote.
"He also remembered Ida saying one time she 'took care' of those three people," Gann wrote.
Ida Prewitt died in September 2011, the investigators said.
The OSBI wouldn't speculate on why Grover Prewitt stepped forward now. After 21 years, a lot changes in people's lives," OSBI spokeswoman Jessica Brown said.
Creek County officials did not have a record of any attorney for Prewitt.
DNA testing is pending to determine definitely whether the bodies are those of the missing women and the girl.
"Now that it is open and out in the public, we need people to come forward," she said. "There are other people who know about this."
At a news conference Thursday, OSBI Director Stan Florence credited Prewitt's recent revelations — at the same time agents were moving in to arrest him.
"The passage of 21 years gave a tipster confidence to come forward and provide the information necessary to help push this case forward," Florence said at the time.
According to the investigators, Camp's son, 4-year-old Jonathan Noe, lived with Chad Noe in Shamrock. Chad Noe's mother, Beverly Noe, told investigators in 1992 that she drove the three to and from Shamrock, then dropped them off at a Wal-Mart in Chandler.
Jennings is about 100 miles northeast of Oklahoma City and the grave site is about 19 miles from Shamrock and 30 miles from Chandler.
Remains found beneath 8 feet of dirt near Jennings were likely those of Wendy Camp, 23; her daughter Cynthia Britto, 6; and Lisa Kregear, 22, who was Camp's sister-in-law, the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation said. Clothing, a backpack and a purse found in the hole matched items the women had when they disappeared May 29, 1992.
Grover J. Prewitt Jr., 60, of Bristow, used to own the land where the bodies were found and was charged Thursday with being an accessory after the fact of first-degree murder. Investigators said he told them that he suspected in 1992 that the three were in the hole and said he spread pepper in the area at his mother's request.
Prewitt's nephew had been married to Camp and was in a custody dispute with her around the time of her disappearance, according to the investigators.
In late March, Prewitt told investigators that, around the time the three disappeared, his sister Beverly asked him to hire a backhoe driver to dig a hole for a septic tank on 5 acres that their mother was buying from him. The hole sat empty for a bit, then after the three went missing his mother, Ida Prewitt, asked him to have the backhoe driver fill the hole. Ida Prewitt never moved onto the property and later sold it.
"Grover never looked in the hole after the girls went missing because he was scared of what he would see," agent Melissa Gann wrote in an affidavit filed in Creek County Court.
Five days after his initial meeting with police, Prewitt met again with investigators and told one "he really needed to look in that hole." On April 16, crews found three bodies.
In an interview with police on April 22, he recalled his mother asking him to sprinkle black pepper on the area.
"He told her he thought that was 'awful damn strange.' She said it would 'deter dog scents.' Grover did not question her on that matter and did as he was asked," Gann wrote.
"He also remembered Ida saying one time she 'took care' of those three people," Gann wrote.
Ida Prewitt died in September 2011, the investigators said.
The OSBI wouldn't speculate on why Grover Prewitt stepped forward now. After 21 years, a lot changes in people's lives," OSBI spokeswoman Jessica Brown said.
Creek County officials did not have a record of any attorney for Prewitt.
DNA testing is pending to determine definitely whether the bodies are those of the missing women and the girl.
"Now that it is open and out in the public, we need people to come forward," she said. "There are other people who know about this."
At a news conference Thursday, OSBI Director Stan Florence credited Prewitt's recent revelations — at the same time agents were moving in to arrest him.
"The passage of 21 years gave a tipster confidence to come forward and provide the information necessary to help push this case forward," Florence said at the time.
According to the investigators, Camp's son, 4-year-old Jonathan Noe, lived with Chad Noe in Shamrock. Chad Noe's mother, Beverly Noe, told investigators in 1992 that she drove the three to and from Shamrock, then dropped them off at a Wal-Mart in Chandler.
Jennings is about 100 miles northeast of Oklahoma City and the grave site is about 19 miles from Shamrock and 30 miles from Chandler.
Mozzarella recalled
Mozzarella recalled, An upstate New York company is recalling a mozzarella cheese product because it contains soy, which isn't listed on the label and could cause allergic reactions.
Formaggio Italian Cheese Specialties of Sullivan County says it's recalling about 234 pounds of fresh mozzarella with chorizo and cilantro products sold in New York and New Jersey.
It's distributed in 8-oz. packages of “FORMAGGIO Authentic Hand Rolled Fresh Mozzarella with Chorizo & Cilantro” marked “EST. 34483” and with a use-by date of May 31.
The problem was discovered during a federal inspection and was caused by a switch in chorizo providers.
There have been no reports of reactions as of Thursday.A series of frozen pizzas made by Nestle Pizza Company were also recently recalled including a series of California Pizza Kitchen and DiGiorno products.
Formaggio Italian Cheese Specialties of Sullivan County says it's recalling about 234 pounds of fresh mozzarella with chorizo and cilantro products sold in New York and New Jersey.
It's distributed in 8-oz. packages of “FORMAGGIO Authentic Hand Rolled Fresh Mozzarella with Chorizo & Cilantro” marked “EST. 34483” and with a use-by date of May 31.
The problem was discovered during a federal inspection and was caused by a switch in chorizo providers.
There have been no reports of reactions as of Thursday.A series of frozen pizzas made by Nestle Pizza Company were also recently recalled including a series of California Pizza Kitchen and DiGiorno products.
Kim and kanye
Kim and kanye, After months of speculation, it appears Kim Kardashian and Kanye West plan to wed following the upcoming birth of their daughter.
A source told RadarOnline.com on Friday that the couple have chosen a date for their nuptials and hope to wed in a seaside ceremony.
'Kim’s choice at the moment is a starlight ceremony in California’s Big Sur,' the insider confirmed just one day after Kanye took to Twitter to post just one cryptic comment that reads: 'June Eighteen.'
Other details offered include the revelation that Kim intends to say her 'I do’s' wearing an 'ethereal white wedding dress' in a setting 'where they can hear the waves and be married under the moon and stars.'
But fans shouldn't expect an E! broadcast of the occasion, as Kanye reportedly has requested that media be banned from the ceremony and the couple refrain from selling their wedding photos for profit.
The source confirmed: 'Instead, Kanye says they should consider a donation to one of Kim’s charities like the Skin Cancer Foundation or Mattel Children's Hospital in a deal around the wedding for a short film.'
The expectant mother remains eager to build a life with the rap superstar, but must first pass the hurdle of finalising her divorce from basketball player Kris Humphries: 'Now that Kim’s almost a free woman, she wants an immediate wedding — she wants to marry the father of her baby as soon as possible, but the birth must come first.'
The insider claims that the couple have discussed 'marriage for a long time, so it’s not like Kanye is going to propose and they’ll get engaged — its been something they’ve been looking forward to for a while during the divorce.'
Kim even has put together 'a folder of houses she’s seen and all her recent scans and medical reports' to keep Kanye involved in the pregnancy despite his busy schedule.
The rapper deleted his entire Twitter presence back in October 2012, so the portentous 'June Eighteen' Tweet must herald something big in the offing.
It could signal the couple's intended wedding date or mean that 32-year-old Kim's baby girl is due that day, earlier than July as had been predicted.
During a baby shower for fashion stylist Monica Rose at Bagatelle LA, Kim was overheard saying she’s due in mid-June.
There's also rampant speculation that the date could be related to the long-awaited release of the 35-year-old rapper's latest album, the follow-up to 2010's My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy.
But the most likely explanation is that Kanye has been also working on a new fashion line in Paris - as well as putting the final touches on the album - and it will debut on that date.
MailOnline reached out to representatives for confirmation but received no responses.
A source told RadarOnline.com on Friday that the couple have chosen a date for their nuptials and hope to wed in a seaside ceremony.
'Kim’s choice at the moment is a starlight ceremony in California’s Big Sur,' the insider confirmed just one day after Kanye took to Twitter to post just one cryptic comment that reads: 'June Eighteen.'
Other details offered include the revelation that Kim intends to say her 'I do’s' wearing an 'ethereal white wedding dress' in a setting 'where they can hear the waves and be married under the moon and stars.'
But fans shouldn't expect an E! broadcast of the occasion, as Kanye reportedly has requested that media be banned from the ceremony and the couple refrain from selling their wedding photos for profit.
The source confirmed: 'Instead, Kanye says they should consider a donation to one of Kim’s charities like the Skin Cancer Foundation or Mattel Children's Hospital in a deal around the wedding for a short film.'
The expectant mother remains eager to build a life with the rap superstar, but must first pass the hurdle of finalising her divorce from basketball player Kris Humphries: 'Now that Kim’s almost a free woman, she wants an immediate wedding — she wants to marry the father of her baby as soon as possible, but the birth must come first.'
The insider claims that the couple have discussed 'marriage for a long time, so it’s not like Kanye is going to propose and they’ll get engaged — its been something they’ve been looking forward to for a while during the divorce.'
Kim even has put together 'a folder of houses she’s seen and all her recent scans and medical reports' to keep Kanye involved in the pregnancy despite his busy schedule.
The rapper deleted his entire Twitter presence back in October 2012, so the portentous 'June Eighteen' Tweet must herald something big in the offing.
It could signal the couple's intended wedding date or mean that 32-year-old Kim's baby girl is due that day, earlier than July as had been predicted.
During a baby shower for fashion stylist Monica Rose at Bagatelle LA, Kim was overheard saying she’s due in mid-June.
There's also rampant speculation that the date could be related to the long-awaited release of the 35-year-old rapper's latest album, the follow-up to 2010's My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy.
But the most likely explanation is that Kanye has been also working on a new fashion line in Paris - as well as putting the final touches on the album - and it will debut on that date.
MailOnline reached out to representatives for confirmation but received no responses.
Nice weather closes school
Nice weather closes school, In sun-deprived Washington state, the promise of nice spring weather has prompted a small private school to give students a day off to enjoy the sunshine.
Friday will be a "sun day" of sorts for 205 students at Bellingham Christian School in Bellingham, Wash.
Principal Bob Sampson announced the day off on the school's site.
Sampson says he wanted to give students a chance to enjoy the weather and re-energize. He says he surveyed parents and floated the idea with the school board before canceling school.
The sun day was also made possible because there weren't any days off because of snow this school year.
Friday is not the first time the school has given students the day off because of sunshine. The last time was two years ago.
Friday will be a "sun day" of sorts for 205 students at Bellingham Christian School in Bellingham, Wash.
Principal Bob Sampson announced the day off on the school's site.
Sampson says he wanted to give students a chance to enjoy the weather and re-energize. He says he surveyed parents and floated the idea with the school board before canceling school.
The sun day was also made possible because there weren't any days off because of snow this school year.
Friday is not the first time the school has given students the day off because of sunshine. The last time was two years ago.
Heidi klum ring
Heidi klum ring, Heidi Klum’s bodyguard-turned-boyfriend Martin Kirsten is so enamored with the German beauty that he’s already taking the next big step in their relationship -- and buying her a ring.
But it’s not that kind of ring.The couple, who’ve been dating for the last nine months as she split from ex hubby Seal, were spotted in Los Angeles April 21 watching her kids' soccer game -- and wearing some new matching gold finger accessories on their right hands.
Turns out, it’s a special gift from her beau, according to Life & Style.“It’s a present from my boyfriend,” Klum told the mag.Now that Kirsten has put a ring on it, are wedding bells next?
Well, the America’s Got Talent judge is head over heels for the new man in her life.
"Yes, I'm in love," the mother-of-four told Germany's Bunte magazine (via People).
And Kirsten also gets her kids' seal of approval.
"They like him very much," she told the mag. "This is also one reason why I'm so fond of him. He's been helping me for four years now. And he takes wonderful care of the kids. He plays with them, he protects them. I trust him."
But it’s not that kind of ring.The couple, who’ve been dating for the last nine months as she split from ex hubby Seal, were spotted in Los Angeles April 21 watching her kids' soccer game -- and wearing some new matching gold finger accessories on their right hands.
Turns out, it’s a special gift from her beau, according to Life & Style.“It’s a present from my boyfriend,” Klum told the mag.Now that Kirsten has put a ring on it, are wedding bells next?
Well, the America’s Got Talent judge is head over heels for the new man in her life.
"Yes, I'm in love," the mother-of-four told Germany's Bunte magazine (via People).
And Kirsten also gets her kids' seal of approval.
"They like him very much," she told the mag. "This is also one reason why I'm so fond of him. He's been helping me for four years now. And he takes wonderful care of the kids. He plays with them, he protects them. I trust him."
Nnicki minaj mariah carey
Nnicki minaj mariah carey, Just when you thought Mariah Carey and Nicki Minaj were done bickering on "American Idol," the two diva judges have thrown so much shade
at each other over the past 24 hours producers might have to set up extra stage lights just so we can see all the eye-rolling on Thursday night's (May 2) elimination show.
The agree-to-disagree/hate relationship took another serious turn on Wednesday night when Carey not-so-subtly tweaked Minaj by noting that the Young Money queen had never reached the #1 position on Billboard's Hot 100 single chart. (Not for nothing, but Billboard reported last April that both women had 44 Hot 100 hits, though Carey still holds the record for most weeks at #1 (16) for her 1995-96 Boyz II Men hit "One Sweet Day.")Well, you knew Nicki wasn't going to take that sitting down.
On Thursday morning she started the day with a tweet that set things off again. "All dem #1s but JLo phone ringin?," Minaj wrote double-tweaking Carey by using one of her favored bit of twin-related slang and bringing up the sore subject of rumors that "Idol" producers had reportedly considered dumping Mariah in favor of former judge Jennifer Lopez earlier this season when ratings began to go (further) south."I guess having a personality, being a secure woman, and giving genuine critique still trumps that."
She was not quite as politic a short time earlier, when she tweeted, "What u SHOULD be doing (wit your messy ass) is asking why a woman SO successful at her age, is still so INSECURE, and bitter. At one point during Wednesday's show, Minaj disagreed with Carey so vehemently that she pulled out some Q-Tips and offered them to her rival so she could clean her ears out, unexpectedly bringing prop comedy into play in their never-ending feud.
At press time it did not appear that Carey had reacted to Minaj's Twitter taunts, but who knows what will happen on Thursday's show when the two women have to sit just feet from each other for one of the last times this season?
The agree-to-disagree/hate relationship took another serious turn on Wednesday night when Carey not-so-subtly tweaked Minaj by noting that the Young Money queen had never reached the #1 position on Billboard's Hot 100 single chart. (Not for nothing, but Billboard reported last April that both women had 44 Hot 100 hits, though Carey still holds the record for most weeks at #1 (16) for her 1995-96 Boyz II Men hit "One Sweet Day.")Well, you knew Nicki wasn't going to take that sitting down.
On Thursday morning she started the day with a tweet that set things off again. "All dem #1s but JLo phone ringin?," Minaj wrote double-tweaking Carey by using one of her favored bit of twin-related slang and bringing up the sore subject of rumors that "Idol" producers had reportedly considered dumping Mariah in favor of former judge Jennifer Lopez earlier this season when ratings began to go (further) south."I guess having a personality, being a secure woman, and giving genuine critique still trumps that."
She was not quite as politic a short time earlier, when she tweeted, "What u SHOULD be doing (wit your messy ass) is asking why a woman SO successful at her age, is still so INSECURE, and bitter. At one point during Wednesday's show, Minaj disagreed with Carey so vehemently that she pulled out some Q-Tips and offered them to her rival so she could clean her ears out, unexpectedly bringing prop comedy into play in their never-ending feud.
At press time it did not appear that Carey had reacted to Minaj's Twitter taunts, but who knows what will happen on Thursday's show when the two women have to sit just feet from each other for one of the last times this season?
Cop fired 8 times
Cop fired 8 times, This time around, Sgt. German Bosque—who has been fired eight times from three different police departments—has been charged with leaving his assault weapon with his girlfriend’s father, a trained security guard, while on an eight-day leave, according to CBS4 Miami.
That’s a no-no, says the Opa-locka Police Department, which presented its case to dismiss him in front of an arbitration officer on Wednesday.
The station, which covered Bosque's hearing, spoke with City Attorney Joe Geller, who said, "We’re here on a very simple matter. It’s going to be up to the arbitrator. We think what the officer did was wrong.”
Geller is arguing that Bosque violated the department’s policy that an officer’s weapon should be secured at all times.
But like the Terminator, Bosque has a history of coming back: He's the most fired, fined and disciplined officer in the state, according to CBS4.
The Miami cop has managed to return to his post despite his alleged vices. The Miami Herald reports Bosque has beaten back a long list of head-turning charges, including:“It’s allegations.
Allegations are not convictions,” said Bosque’s union-provided attorney, Andrew Axelrad. “We have a system in place, and that system is a fair system.”
To hear Bosque tell it, he just loves his job. “I love serving the community. I love what I do for a living, and I’m very proud,” he said.
That’s a no-no, says the Opa-locka Police Department, which presented its case to dismiss him in front of an arbitration officer on Wednesday.
The station, which covered Bosque's hearing, spoke with City Attorney Joe Geller, who said, "We’re here on a very simple matter. It’s going to be up to the arbitrator. We think what the officer did was wrong.”
Geller is arguing that Bosque violated the department’s policy that an officer’s weapon should be secured at all times.
But like the Terminator, Bosque has a history of coming back: He's the most fired, fined and disciplined officer in the state, according to CBS4.
The Miami cop has managed to return to his post despite his alleged vices. The Miami Herald reports Bosque has beaten back a long list of head-turning charges, including:“It’s allegations.
Allegations are not convictions,” said Bosque’s union-provided attorney, Andrew Axelrad. “We have a system in place, and that system is a fair system.”
To hear Bosque tell it, he just loves his job. “I love serving the community. I love what I do for a living, and I’m very proud,” he said.
Vonn Without Tiger
Vonn Without Tiger, Lindsey Vonn attended the Delete Blood Cancer Gala in the Big Apple last night but her boyfriend Tiger Woods was noticeably absent.
When asked where her golfer beau was, the blonde beauty told E! News, “He’s practicing.” Woods is prepping for the Players Championship next week.
Although she was solo for the evening, Vonn was eager to walk her first red carpet without a knee brace.
"I'm still in rehab, things are going really well. The knee is coming along quite nicely. But I should start skiing in September and everything's right on track for the Olympics in February," she told E!. The Olympic skier injured herself in a horrific fall during this year’s World Championships.
Woods and Vonn announced their long-rumored romance in March with a series of cozy Facebook photos. The snow bunny was seen cheering for Woods at the first round of the Masters in April.
When asked where her golfer beau was, the blonde beauty told E! News, “He’s practicing.” Woods is prepping for the Players Championship next week.
Although she was solo for the evening, Vonn was eager to walk her first red carpet without a knee brace.
"I'm still in rehab, things are going really well. The knee is coming along quite nicely. But I should start skiing in September and everything's right on track for the Olympics in February," she told E!. The Olympic skier injured herself in a horrific fall during this year’s World Championships.
Woods and Vonn announced their long-rumored romance in March with a series of cozy Facebook photos. The snow bunny was seen cheering for Woods at the first round of the Masters in April.
Soccer referee in coma
Soccer referee in coma, A longtime Utah soccer referee in a coma after being punched by a teenager during a weekend game had been attacked by other angry players before, but he continued refereeing because he loved the game, his family says.
Ricardo Portillo, 46, has swelling in his brain and his recovery is uncertain as he remains in critical condition, Dr. Shawn Smith said Thursday at the Intermountain Medical Center in the Salt Lake City suburb of Murray.
Police say a 17-year-old player in a recreational soccer league punched Portillo on Saturday after the man called a foul on him and issued him a yellow card. The teen has been booked into juvenile detention on suspicion of aggravated assault. Those charges could be amplified if Portillo dies.
Portillo's oldest daughter, 26-year-old Johana Portillo, said at a news conference Thursday that her father has been attacked by other players before — even having his ribs and leg broken.
"People don't know it's a game," she said. "We're all there to have fun, not to go and kill each other."
Smith declined to discuss what caused Ricardo Portillo's injuries or divulge his prognosis due to the ongoing police investigation. But Johana Portillo said her father might not survive.
"I know he didn't, he doesn't want to leave us," she said, crying. "We hope for a miracle that he will be ok."
Johana Portillo wasn't at the Saturday afternoon game in the Salt Lake City suburb of Taylorsville, but she said she's been told by witnesses and detectives that the player hit her father in the side of the head after he issued the yellow card.
"When he was writing down his notes, he just came out of nowhere and punched him," she said.
His friends who were there told her Ricardo Portillo seemed fine at first, but then asked to be held because he felt dizzy. They sat him down and he started vomiting blood, triggering his friend to call an ambulance. The referee has been in a coma since Saturday.
Johana Portillo said her father's passion is soccer, and he's been a referee in the recreational league for eight years. Five years ago, a player upset with a call broke his ribs. A few years before that, a player broke his leg, she said. Other referees have been hurt, too.
His daughters begged him to stop refereeing — his second job — but he continued because he loved soccer.
"It was his passion," she said. "We could not tell him no."
The league is not affiliated with the Utah Youth Soccer Association or any city or town recreation department. It is called the Liga Continental, said the referee's brother-in-law Pedro Lopez, who also gets paid to referee in the league.
Johana Portillo said the family doesn't know the teenager who threw the punch, and they haven't heard from him or anyone in his family.
Friday is Ricardo Portillo's youngest daughter's 16th birthday, and the family was planning to leave on vacation Thursday, Johana Portillo said. Instead, they have set up a bank fund in case their father dies.
"If my dad doesn't make it, we want to make his last wish come true," Johana Portillo said. "To see his family again."
She said his sisters are trying to come from Guadalajara, Mexico. The referee hadn't seen his sisters in the 16 years since he moved to Utah.
"It's just not fair," said Johana Portillo, holding back tears. "This person caused us a lot of pain. I want justice for my dad, and we're going to get it. ... If he spends time in jail forever, it's not enough. They are not going to bring my daddy back."
Ricardo Portillo, 46, has swelling in his brain and his recovery is uncertain as he remains in critical condition, Dr. Shawn Smith said Thursday at the Intermountain Medical Center in the Salt Lake City suburb of Murray.
Police say a 17-year-old player in a recreational soccer league punched Portillo on Saturday after the man called a foul on him and issued him a yellow card. The teen has been booked into juvenile detention on suspicion of aggravated assault. Those charges could be amplified if Portillo dies.
Portillo's oldest daughter, 26-year-old Johana Portillo, said at a news conference Thursday that her father has been attacked by other players before — even having his ribs and leg broken.
"People don't know it's a game," she said. "We're all there to have fun, not to go and kill each other."
Smith declined to discuss what caused Ricardo Portillo's injuries or divulge his prognosis due to the ongoing police investigation. But Johana Portillo said her father might not survive.
"I know he didn't, he doesn't want to leave us," she said, crying. "We hope for a miracle that he will be ok."
Johana Portillo wasn't at the Saturday afternoon game in the Salt Lake City suburb of Taylorsville, but she said she's been told by witnesses and detectives that the player hit her father in the side of the head after he issued the yellow card.
"When he was writing down his notes, he just came out of nowhere and punched him," she said.
His friends who were there told her Ricardo Portillo seemed fine at first, but then asked to be held because he felt dizzy. They sat him down and he started vomiting blood, triggering his friend to call an ambulance. The referee has been in a coma since Saturday.
Johana Portillo said her father's passion is soccer, and he's been a referee in the recreational league for eight years. Five years ago, a player upset with a call broke his ribs. A few years before that, a player broke his leg, she said. Other referees have been hurt, too.
His daughters begged him to stop refereeing — his second job — but he continued because he loved soccer.
"It was his passion," she said. "We could not tell him no."
The league is not affiliated with the Utah Youth Soccer Association or any city or town recreation department. It is called the Liga Continental, said the referee's brother-in-law Pedro Lopez, who also gets paid to referee in the league.
Johana Portillo said the family doesn't know the teenager who threw the punch, and they haven't heard from him or anyone in his family.
Friday is Ricardo Portillo's youngest daughter's 16th birthday, and the family was planning to leave on vacation Thursday, Johana Portillo said. Instead, they have set up a bank fund in case their father dies.
"If my dad doesn't make it, we want to make his last wish come true," Johana Portillo said. "To see his family again."
She said his sisters are trying to come from Guadalajara, Mexico. The referee hadn't seen his sisters in the 16 years since he moved to Utah.
"It's just not fair," said Johana Portillo, holding back tears. "This person caused us a lot of pain. I want justice for my dad, and we're going to get it. ... If he spends time in jail forever, it's not enough. They are not going to bring my daddy back."
Disney bangladesh
Disney bangladesh, The Walt Disney Co. is pulling out of Bangladesh and several other developing countries, in part because of fatal accidents in factories that produced branded merchandise for Western firms.
Announcement of the move follows last week’s collapse of a Bangladesh garment factory building, a tragedy that may be the worst such accident in world history. The official death toll is now more that 500 and keeps climbing as rescue workers continue the slow process of working through building rubble.
Disney officials said their pull-out decision was actually made in March, after a fire in a Bangladesh factory last November that killed more than 100. The company has told licensees that it wants to phase out production of Disney-brand items made in Bangladesh, Pakistan, Belarus, Ecuador, and Venezuela.
Disney said it relied on World Bank Governing Indicators, which measure rule of law, corruption, and other national characteristics, to help make its decision.
“After much thought and discussion we felt this was the most responsible way to manage the challenges associated with our supply chain,” said Bob Chapek, president of Disney Consumer Products, according to a CNN report.
Are Western firms such as Disney, the Gap, and Benetton in part responsible for the conditions that lead to these tragedies in low-wage nations? Disney’s move shows that some feel their reputations are at risk, at the least, if they are tied too closely to foreign workplace tragedies.
Customers may avoid brands they suspect of abetting worker abuse. And a number of international nongovernment organizations today stand ready to publicize poor conditions found in factories linked to major nation retail brands.
But these NGOs don’t necessarily want their pressure to result in pull-outs. They want corporations to use their economic muscle to improve conditions.
The Washington-based Workers Rights Consortium, for instance, says it works with big companies and their foreign licenses to try to remedy problems before issuing public reports.
“The WRC views ‘cutting and running’ from a factory as a serious abrogation of a licensee’s responsibilities,” says the group in a statement.
Worker groups often want foreign firms to stay to preserve jobs and economic development. Some experts say the blame for tragedies such as the Bangladesh building collapse should be directed at local and national authorities who have the responsibility to protect their workers.
“By misassigning the responsibility for the recent tragedies to global retailers, western media and consumer movements allow the real culprits to get away scot-free and further diminish the likelihood of governance reform in poor countries,” wrote Jagdish Bhagwati, senior fellow for international economics at the Council on Foreign Relations, and Amrita Narlikar, director of the Centre for Rising Powers at the University of Cambridge, last month in the British magazine Prospect.
Other experts put the problem in a larger political frame. The real problem in Bangladesh has been the complex trade apparatus erected by the US, which consumes most of the cheap clothing produced in developing nations, wrote Mallika Shakya, an assistant professor of sociology at South Asian University in Delhi, in the Indian newspaper The Hindu.
Between 1974 and 2004, the US Multi-Fiber Arrangement virtually dictated, item by item, the amount of clothing that third-world countries could export to the US, according to Ms. Shakya. Potential rivals to America such as China got small quotas, while Bangladesh and other unprepared nations got large ones.
The result was that Bangladeshi authorities could not keep up with the explosive growth of their country's garment industry.
“That is a reason why most factory buildings are found to be built haphazardly, without acquiring the necessary clearance from state agencies,” wrote Shakya.
Announcement of the move follows last week’s collapse of a Bangladesh garment factory building, a tragedy that may be the worst such accident in world history. The official death toll is now more that 500 and keeps climbing as rescue workers continue the slow process of working through building rubble.
Disney officials said their pull-out decision was actually made in March, after a fire in a Bangladesh factory last November that killed more than 100. The company has told licensees that it wants to phase out production of Disney-brand items made in Bangladesh, Pakistan, Belarus, Ecuador, and Venezuela.
Disney said it relied on World Bank Governing Indicators, which measure rule of law, corruption, and other national characteristics, to help make its decision.
“After much thought and discussion we felt this was the most responsible way to manage the challenges associated with our supply chain,” said Bob Chapek, president of Disney Consumer Products, according to a CNN report.
Are Western firms such as Disney, the Gap, and Benetton in part responsible for the conditions that lead to these tragedies in low-wage nations? Disney’s move shows that some feel their reputations are at risk, at the least, if they are tied too closely to foreign workplace tragedies.
Customers may avoid brands they suspect of abetting worker abuse. And a number of international nongovernment organizations today stand ready to publicize poor conditions found in factories linked to major nation retail brands.
But these NGOs don’t necessarily want their pressure to result in pull-outs. They want corporations to use their economic muscle to improve conditions.
The Washington-based Workers Rights Consortium, for instance, says it works with big companies and their foreign licenses to try to remedy problems before issuing public reports.
“The WRC views ‘cutting and running’ from a factory as a serious abrogation of a licensee’s responsibilities,” says the group in a statement.
Worker groups often want foreign firms to stay to preserve jobs and economic development. Some experts say the blame for tragedies such as the Bangladesh building collapse should be directed at local and national authorities who have the responsibility to protect their workers.
“By misassigning the responsibility for the recent tragedies to global retailers, western media and consumer movements allow the real culprits to get away scot-free and further diminish the likelihood of governance reform in poor countries,” wrote Jagdish Bhagwati, senior fellow for international economics at the Council on Foreign Relations, and Amrita Narlikar, director of the Centre for Rising Powers at the University of Cambridge, last month in the British magazine Prospect.
Other experts put the problem in a larger political frame. The real problem in Bangladesh has been the complex trade apparatus erected by the US, which consumes most of the cheap clothing produced in developing nations, wrote Mallika Shakya, an assistant professor of sociology at South Asian University in Delhi, in the Indian newspaper The Hindu.
Between 1974 and 2004, the US Multi-Fiber Arrangement virtually dictated, item by item, the amount of clothing that third-world countries could export to the US, according to Ms. Shakya. Potential rivals to America such as China got small quotas, while Bangladesh and other unprepared nations got large ones.
The result was that Bangladeshi authorities could not keep up with the explosive growth of their country's garment industry.
“That is a reason why most factory buildings are found to be built haphazardly, without acquiring the necessary clearance from state agencies,” wrote Shakya.
Harry connick idol
Harry connick idol, American Idol" is really looking to sing a different tune next season. According to reports, the Fox singing-competition show is courting recent guest mentor Harry Connick Jr. to sit on the judge panel permanently next season, and the singer apparently confirmed as much after Thursday's results show.
Connick said that he has been talking with producers about joining next year's panel. "They wanted to know if I would be interested -- and it's a blast, but I don't know, it's hard to make a commitment like that," he said backstage, according to TV Guide.
Connick served as an opinionated mentor to the Top 4 contestants this week, even getting into a heated argument at the judge's table with Randy Jackson during Wednesday's live show. "You need to be completely honest and diplomatic," Connick said of his judging method. "There's no reason to be mean, but it's called being a judge. You have to judge, that's what you do."
Though the actor and performer, who is releasing an album titled "Every Man Should Know" in June, may be too busy to take a seat at the judge's table, saying, "I'm going on tour this year so, like, when would I do it? It's that kind of thing."
It was previously rumored that Fox was looking to change the panel even before the end of this season by bringing back former judge Jennifer Lopez to replace Mariah Carey.
It looks as if they're looking for any solution to get there dismal ratings back up.
Tell us: Do you think Harry Connick Jr. would make a good judge?
Connick said that he has been talking with producers about joining next year's panel. "They wanted to know if I would be interested -- and it's a blast, but I don't know, it's hard to make a commitment like that," he said backstage, according to TV Guide.
Connick served as an opinionated mentor to the Top 4 contestants this week, even getting into a heated argument at the judge's table with Randy Jackson during Wednesday's live show. "You need to be completely honest and diplomatic," Connick said of his judging method. "There's no reason to be mean, but it's called being a judge. You have to judge, that's what you do."
Though the actor and performer, who is releasing an album titled "Every Man Should Know" in June, may be too busy to take a seat at the judge's table, saying, "I'm going on tour this year so, like, when would I do it? It's that kind of thing."
It was previously rumored that Fox was looking to change the panel even before the end of this season by bringing back former judge Jennifer Lopez to replace Mariah Carey.
It looks as if they're looking for any solution to get there dismal ratings back up.
Tell us: Do you think Harry Connick Jr. would make a good judge?
Bank of America $60 Billion
Bank of America $60 Billion, American International Group Inc (NYSE:AIG) first quarter profit fell 31 percent year over year to $2.21 billion, as the company stopped benefiting from certain holdings, including Asian Life Insurer, which it sold last year. The Wall Street Journal reported that despite the drop in profits, EPS beat consensus estimates ($0.87) by $0.47 coming out at $1.34. Bank of America Corp (NYSE:BAC) analysts highlighted that the significant upside surprise was attributable to non-sustainable elements, such as alternative investment income, low catastrophe losses, and mark to market gains in investment book.
Bank of America Corp (NYSE:BAC) analysts noted improvement in AIG’s life, and property/casualty (P/C) segments for the first quarter of 2013. These segments comprise roughly 86 percent of earnings. P/C profit of $1.59 billion was supported by a lower loss ratio in first quarter of 2013 of 63.3 percent versus the 68.0 percent recorded a year ago. Loss ratios excluding catastrophes have improved for six consecutive quarters. Such improvement together with price increases, better underwriting, and an improved business mix, should bolster profits in P/C for upcoming quarters; Bank of America analysts stated. The US commercial segment within P/C was bolstered by a 7.4 percent rate hike and increases in new business.
American International Group Inc (NYSE:AIG)’s Life and Retirement segment reported profits of $1.39 billion, including positive impact of alternative investment income. The Life segment was underpinned by strong equity markets and favorable fee trends. American International Group Inc (NYSE:AIG) continues to effectively manage spreads minimizing the impact of the low interest rate environment. Finally, assets under management increased 12 percent to $296.9 billion from a year ago bolstered by strong fixed and equity investment performance and additional deposits. Bank of America foresees continued profit stability in this segment.
American International Group Inc (NYSE:AIG) is focusing on improving structure and technology on its two main segments, Property/Casualty and Life. According to CEO Robert Benmosche, such investments are important to realizing his vision for a slimmed down company and he sees returns on them come to fruition in 2013. AIG is also targeting an improved capital structure, and wants to reduce outstanding debts through tender offers and debt maturities. Bank of America analysts think the pending sale of ILFC could generate proceeds of $3.6-$3.8 billion and that American International Group Inc (NYSE:AIG) could deploy this capital in share buybacks or a reinstated dividend (pending Fed approval). The firm also has liquidity of $15 billion currently, but about $5.5 billion is allocated toward contingent stress needs of direct investment book and the balance may be allotted to pay debt maturities.
Bank of America Corp (NYSE:BAC) analysts noted improvement in AIG’s life, and property/casualty (P/C) segments for the first quarter of 2013. These segments comprise roughly 86 percent of earnings. P/C profit of $1.59 billion was supported by a lower loss ratio in first quarter of 2013 of 63.3 percent versus the 68.0 percent recorded a year ago. Loss ratios excluding catastrophes have improved for six consecutive quarters. Such improvement together with price increases, better underwriting, and an improved business mix, should bolster profits in P/C for upcoming quarters; Bank of America analysts stated. The US commercial segment within P/C was bolstered by a 7.4 percent rate hike and increases in new business.
American International Group Inc (NYSE:AIG)’s Life and Retirement segment reported profits of $1.39 billion, including positive impact of alternative investment income. The Life segment was underpinned by strong equity markets and favorable fee trends. American International Group Inc (NYSE:AIG) continues to effectively manage spreads minimizing the impact of the low interest rate environment. Finally, assets under management increased 12 percent to $296.9 billion from a year ago bolstered by strong fixed and equity investment performance and additional deposits. Bank of America foresees continued profit stability in this segment.
American International Group Inc (NYSE:AIG) is focusing on improving structure and technology on its two main segments, Property/Casualty and Life. According to CEO Robert Benmosche, such investments are important to realizing his vision for a slimmed down company and he sees returns on them come to fruition in 2013. AIG is also targeting an improved capital structure, and wants to reduce outstanding debts through tender offers and debt maturities. Bank of America analysts think the pending sale of ILFC could generate proceeds of $3.6-$3.8 billion and that American International Group Inc (NYSE:AIG) could deploy this capital in share buybacks or a reinstated dividend (pending Fed approval). The firm also has liquidity of $15 billion currently, but about $5.5 billion is allocated toward contingent stress needs of direct investment book and the balance may be allotted to pay debt maturities.
Tatyana Ali makes herself cry three times a day for workout
Tatyana Ali makes herself cry three times a day for workout, There are many ways to lose weight– but crying? Who would have thought that tears were any way to shed pounds.
Well, despite the puffy face and whatever else it entails, former Fresh Prince of Bel Aire star, Tatyana Ali, swears by her tears. The 33-year old told the New York Daily News:
“I cry three times a day as part of my workout routine. It really targets the core. Great way to reduce bloating.”
Despite her claims, however, there is no hard evidence to back up the connection between crying and weight loss.If you’re looking to lose weight, really consider making small lifestyle changes like the following:Cut out the sweet stuff.
It’s incredible how cutting out one soda a day can make a difference. It’s true. A bottle of soda is on average 250 calories– 250 empty calories. If you quit guzzling those fizzy drinks along with any candy, donuts, and cookies you might be treating yourself to throughout the day, you’ll be amazed to see the it makes a difference on your waistline.
Drink more water.
Studies have shown that overweight people who start drinking more water per day are not only more likely to lose weight but they keep the weight off. Drinking 8 glasses of water a day makes people feel fuller longer and flushes toxins out of the bloodstream.
Take the stairs.
Stop making simple, everyday tasks so easy for yourself. Are you parking right by the door so you don’t have to walk? Taking the elevator instead of the stairs? Making your kid walk the dog? Taking on just a few more minutes of exercise in your daily routine will help you lose some major weight. It’s important to push yourself through the laziness and go the extra few steps every day. You’ll be amazed at the results.
Eat whole grains.
You want to make everything you eat count. Certain foods like beans, citrus fruits, and whole grains can help you feel fuller longer. Why? Because they’re rich in nutrition, take longer for your body to break down which means you’re not hungry 20 minutes later. Trade in the white bread for hearty grains and you’ll witness weight coming and staying off for the long term.
Well, despite the puffy face and whatever else it entails, former Fresh Prince of Bel Aire star, Tatyana Ali, swears by her tears. The 33-year old told the New York Daily News:
“I cry three times a day as part of my workout routine. It really targets the core. Great way to reduce bloating.”
Despite her claims, however, there is no hard evidence to back up the connection between crying and weight loss.If you’re looking to lose weight, really consider making small lifestyle changes like the following:Cut out the sweet stuff.
It’s incredible how cutting out one soda a day can make a difference. It’s true. A bottle of soda is on average 250 calories– 250 empty calories. If you quit guzzling those fizzy drinks along with any candy, donuts, and cookies you might be treating yourself to throughout the day, you’ll be amazed to see the it makes a difference on your waistline.
Drink more water.
Studies have shown that overweight people who start drinking more water per day are not only more likely to lose weight but they keep the weight off. Drinking 8 glasses of water a day makes people feel fuller longer and flushes toxins out of the bloodstream.
Take the stairs.
Stop making simple, everyday tasks so easy for yourself. Are you parking right by the door so you don’t have to walk? Taking the elevator instead of the stairs? Making your kid walk the dog? Taking on just a few more minutes of exercise in your daily routine will help you lose some major weight. It’s important to push yourself through the laziness and go the extra few steps every day. You’ll be amazed at the results.
Eat whole grains.
You want to make everything you eat count. Certain foods like beans, citrus fruits, and whole grains can help you feel fuller longer. Why? Because they’re rich in nutrition, take longer for your body to break down which means you’re not hungry 20 minutes later. Trade in the white bread for hearty grains and you’ll witness weight coming and staying off for the long term.
Mariah carey to be replaced on american idol
Mariah carey to be replaced on american idol, The rumors surrounding Jennifer Lopez and a possible return to the "American Idol" judges panel were partially true.
While JLO will be back on idol this season, it will just be to perform on the show’s finale later this month.
Last week The Hollywood Reporter released the “bombshell scoop” that Lopez would be heading back to her judge’s seat to replace Mariah Carey.
According to THR, "Idol" producers were so concerned with the show’s plunging ratings that they devised a plot to get JLO back.
The magazine said the show’s producers were still in negotiations with Lopez to make a comeback, since she was such a popular judge during seasons 10 and 11.
However, a Fox spokesman said the report was “just another ridiculous 'Idol' judge rumor, likely started by talks of Jennifer performing on the finale."
Since Lopez’s departure from the show, "Idol” has been struggling with their ratings. While they have been on a decline for the past few seasons, last week’s ratings showed that “Idol” was losing momentum to rival singing competition show “The Voice.”
While JLO will be back on idol this season, it will just be to perform on the show’s finale later this month.
Last week The Hollywood Reporter released the “bombshell scoop” that Lopez would be heading back to her judge’s seat to replace Mariah Carey.
According to THR, "Idol" producers were so concerned with the show’s plunging ratings that they devised a plot to get JLO back.
The magazine said the show’s producers were still in negotiations with Lopez to make a comeback, since she was such a popular judge during seasons 10 and 11.
However, a Fox spokesman said the report was “just another ridiculous 'Idol' judge rumor, likely started by talks of Jennifer performing on the finale."
Since Lopez’s departure from the show, "Idol” has been struggling with their ratings. While they have been on a decline for the past few seasons, last week’s ratings showed that “Idol” was losing momentum to rival singing competition show “The Voice.”
Tower climber falls dies
Tower climber falls dies, A Seattle City light crew and firefighters are working to recover the body of a person who climbed a power transmission tower in Seattle Friday morning.
Witnesses said they saw a man climb up the tower on 3rd Avenue Northwest and Northwest 36th Street just before a transformer explosion.
The man’s body was spotted on tower platform at about 150 feet high, although witnesses said the man had been seen some 40 feet higher.
Firefighters had to wait for City Light to turn off the power before they could climb up. Some residents in the area will be without electricity until the body is brought down.
Witnesses said they saw a man climb up the tower on 3rd Avenue Northwest and Northwest 36th Street just before a transformer explosion.
The man’s body was spotted on tower platform at about 150 feet high, although witnesses said the man had been seen some 40 feet higher.
Firefighters had to wait for City Light to turn off the power before they could climb up. Some residents in the area will be without electricity until the body is brought down.
Catherine zeta jones plastic surgery?
Catherine zeta jones plastic surgery?, For some time, there have been various speculations on possible Catherine Zeta-Jones plastic surgery. It seems that the rumors recently have intensified, probably because actress recently stepped into her 40s. Many people remember Catherine Zeta-Jones from such movies as “The Mask of Zorro”, “Entrapment”, “A Little Night Music” and many others.
Having in mind her age and that she’s a mother of two children; the actress has maintained an impressively beautiful appearance. That’s probably why many people started discussing the possibility that actress might have gotten some kind of plastic surgeries to maintain her youthful looks.
There are many different opinions on Catherine Zeta-Jones plastic surgery. Those people who really believe that she had something done are mainly talking about a possible breast augmentation, rhinoplasty and Botox injections. Most of the discussions about possible breast surgery started after people saw very much revealing photos from when actress was on the beach during her vocation.
Plastic surgeon Apostolos Gaitanis has stated that in his opinion, it is possible that she had breast augmentation, because her breasts look firmer and they project to the front. However, it is possible that Zeta-Jones bust size became bigger because recently she has gained some weight.
When the actress was asked about her possible surgeries, she denied having anything done. It seems entirely possible that she is telling the truth. If we compare the photos of how she looked before and looks now, we can see that there are no big changes on her face or her body. The small changes could have easily happened because of her getting older, also, because of the weight gain and giving birth to two children. The rumors about possible rhinoplasty can also be easily denied.
The photos which are usually compared when talking about this don‘t even have the same viewing angle. Also, the shape of the nose in the photo can seem a bit different for other reasons like makeup or lighting. The rumors about possible Botox injections seem a little bit more possible, although there is still no way to confirm them. Even if the actress has had plastic surgery, it was done very professionally.
All things considered, we don‘t know if the Catherine Zeta-Jones plastic surgery rumors are true. It probably will stay this way unless actress herself will decide to talk about it. Either way, she is a stunningly beautiful actress and people will still love her no matter if her beauty is all natural or a little bit surgically altered
Having in mind her age and that she’s a mother of two children; the actress has maintained an impressively beautiful appearance. That’s probably why many people started discussing the possibility that actress might have gotten some kind of plastic surgeries to maintain her youthful looks.
There are many different opinions on Catherine Zeta-Jones plastic surgery. Those people who really believe that she had something done are mainly talking about a possible breast augmentation, rhinoplasty and Botox injections. Most of the discussions about possible breast surgery started after people saw very much revealing photos from when actress was on the beach during her vocation.
Plastic surgeon Apostolos Gaitanis has stated that in his opinion, it is possible that she had breast augmentation, because her breasts look firmer and they project to the front. However, it is possible that Zeta-Jones bust size became bigger because recently she has gained some weight.
When the actress was asked about her possible surgeries, she denied having anything done. It seems entirely possible that she is telling the truth. If we compare the photos of how she looked before and looks now, we can see that there are no big changes on her face or her body. The small changes could have easily happened because of her getting older, also, because of the weight gain and giving birth to two children. The rumors about possible rhinoplasty can also be easily denied.
The photos which are usually compared when talking about this don‘t even have the same viewing angle. Also, the shape of the nose in the photo can seem a bit different for other reasons like makeup or lighting. The rumors about possible Botox injections seem a little bit more possible, although there is still no way to confirm them. Even if the actress has had plastic surgery, it was done very professionally.
All things considered, we don‘t know if the Catherine Zeta-Jones plastic surgery rumors are true. It probably will stay this way unless actress herself will decide to talk about it. Either way, she is a stunningly beautiful actress and people will still love her no matter if her beauty is all natural or a little bit surgically altered
Catherine zeta jones
Catherine zeta jones, Michael Douglas "couldn't be more supportive" of Catherine Zeta-Jones. The actress has bipolar II disorder and yesterday it was confirmed she has checked into a clinic for maintenance treatment.
She is expected to be away for 30 days and her husband is fully in favour of her decision. He couldn't be more supportive, just like she is of him. They're solid," an insider told People.
"They're really, really devoted to each other."
Earlier this month, the couple were seen together at the Film Society of Lincoln Center's 40th Annual Chaplin Award Gala in New York City.
They stayed close all evening and Catherine gave no indication that anything was wrong.
"Catherine was on his [Michael's] arm much of the time," a source explained. "She seemed really relaxed and happy. I saw her with a cocktail and she was socialising and enjoying the evening... Nothing seemed out of the ordinary, and they both seemed to be having a good time."
Zeta-Jones sought help for her illness in 2011, at the same time Douglas was getting over throat cancer.
She was open about having biopolar II disorder and her representative has insisted her latest spell in treatment is all part of her plan to properly deal with it.
"Previously Catherine has said that she is committed to periodic care in order to manage her health in an optimum manner," her spokesperson Cece Yorke said.
Another source explained: "There was no big problem. This was just a good time to do it. She is in between projects. This has always been part of the plan. She would manage her health. She is vigilant about it."
In 2011, Douglas discussed Zeta-Jones' decision to seek help. He spoke of his intense pride in his wife and called the move a "positive" one.
The couple have been married since 2000 and have two children together.
She is expected to be away for 30 days and her husband is fully in favour of her decision. He couldn't be more supportive, just like she is of him. They're solid," an insider told People.
"They're really, really devoted to each other."
Earlier this month, the couple were seen together at the Film Society of Lincoln Center's 40th Annual Chaplin Award Gala in New York City.
They stayed close all evening and Catherine gave no indication that anything was wrong.
"Catherine was on his [Michael's] arm much of the time," a source explained. "She seemed really relaxed and happy. I saw her with a cocktail and she was socialising and enjoying the evening... Nothing seemed out of the ordinary, and they both seemed to be having a good time."
Zeta-Jones sought help for her illness in 2011, at the same time Douglas was getting over throat cancer.
She was open about having biopolar II disorder and her representative has insisted her latest spell in treatment is all part of her plan to properly deal with it.
"Previously Catherine has said that she is committed to periodic care in order to manage her health in an optimum manner," her spokesperson Cece Yorke said.
Another source explained: "There was no big problem. This was just a good time to do it. She is in between projects. This has always been part of the plan. She would manage her health. She is vigilant about it."
In 2011, Douglas discussed Zeta-Jones' decision to seek help. He spoke of his intense pride in his wife and called the move a "positive" one.
The couple have been married since 2000 and have two children together.
Courteney cox with coco
Courteney cox with coco, It never fails, even divorces that appear to be amicable always end up hitting a snag somewhere.
This time around I’m talking about Courteney Cox and David Arquette. The couple met on the set of Scream back in 1996 and fell hard and fast.
By Hollywood standards they did pretty well and although their initial split was painful, they seem to have managed to remain on pretty good terms which is a good thing since they share custody of their daughter named Coco.
The eight year old is at the root of their recent arguments because as we all know, eventually even good parents disagree on how to raise kids.
Apparently Coco wants to act and according to the latest issue of the GLOBE, Courteney is dead set against it. Her daughter supposedly does great accents and is just amazed by the whole process of acting.
She is often seen accompanying her mother to the set of Cougar Town and has begged and pleaded for a chance to audition for anything and everything. Courteney refuses to budge on the issue, but David wants his daughter to have a chance to pursue her dream even if she is only 8.
David hails from a family of actors and thinks it’s only natural that it would be in Coco’s blood to want to perform so he and Courteney have had some heated clashes. His almost ex-wife is trying to protect their child from the pitfalls of young Hollywood. She doesn’t want to end up raising a young Lindsay Lohan, which is totally understandable!
Should Courteney allow Coco to audition or is it wise to shield her from the business until she is old enough to make wise choices? Tell us your thoughts in the comments below!
This time around I’m talking about Courteney Cox and David Arquette. The couple met on the set of Scream back in 1996 and fell hard and fast.
By Hollywood standards they did pretty well and although their initial split was painful, they seem to have managed to remain on pretty good terms which is a good thing since they share custody of their daughter named Coco.
The eight year old is at the root of their recent arguments because as we all know, eventually even good parents disagree on how to raise kids.
Apparently Coco wants to act and according to the latest issue of the GLOBE, Courteney is dead set against it. Her daughter supposedly does great accents and is just amazed by the whole process of acting.
She is often seen accompanying her mother to the set of Cougar Town and has begged and pleaded for a chance to audition for anything and everything. Courteney refuses to budge on the issue, but David wants his daughter to have a chance to pursue her dream even if she is only 8.
David hails from a family of actors and thinks it’s only natural that it would be in Coco’s blood to want to perform so he and Courteney have had some heated clashes. His almost ex-wife is trying to protect their child from the pitfalls of young Hollywood. She doesn’t want to end up raising a young Lindsay Lohan, which is totally understandable!
Should Courteney allow Coco to audition or is it wise to shield her from the business until she is old enough to make wise choices? Tell us your thoughts in the comments below!
Bieber Muslim Prayer
Bieber Muslim Prayer, Justin Bieber stopped his concert in Istanbul, Turkey on Thursday night during the Muslim call to prayer.
According to E! Online, Bieber paused his show at Istanbul's sold-out Technical University sports arena to allow for audience members to pray (a practice Muslims observe five times daily). Bieber's gesture was met with many positive notices on Twitter.
The goodwill Bieber engendered by pausing the show helped offset some of the trouble he and his entourage reportedly got into earlier on Thursday at Istanbul’s Sabiha Gökçen Airport. According to ABC News, Bieber and his crew did not present any of their travel documents to security officials as they left the airport. As a result, Bieber was checked by security outside of Sabiha Gökçen Airport and allowed to go on his way.
Bieber's current tour has not been without some controversy. His planned show in Oman was reportedly canceled because the Muslim nation deemed his stage act too sexy and debauched.
According to E! Online, Bieber paused his show at Istanbul's sold-out Technical University sports arena to allow for audience members to pray (a practice Muslims observe five times daily). Bieber's gesture was met with many positive notices on Twitter.
The goodwill Bieber engendered by pausing the show helped offset some of the trouble he and his entourage reportedly got into earlier on Thursday at Istanbul’s Sabiha Gökçen Airport. According to ABC News, Bieber and his crew did not present any of their travel documents to security officials as they left the airport. As a result, Bieber was checked by security outside of Sabiha Gökçen Airport and allowed to go on his way.
Bieber's current tour has not been without some controversy. His planned show in Oman was reportedly canceled because the Muslim nation deemed his stage act too sexy and debauched.
Kelly overdose suspected
Kelly overdose suspected, Chris Kelly's death may have been due to an overdose, it has been suspected, according to reports out Thursday.
According to a police report, the mother of the rapper – who was one-half of 1990s teen rap duo Kriss Kross – told authorities that her son became sick on the night before he died after taking cocaine and heroin.
Kelly was found dead on Wednesday, and now it has emerged that Kelly's mother, Donna Kelly Pratte, 54, and his uncle, Lamar Williams, 52, have reported to authorities that the music star had a history of drug abuse.
His family has said that Kelly has experienced similar episodes in the past, according to the Fulton County police report.
The 34 year old rap star was found by paramedics on his living room on a couch in Atlanta. He was given CPR, but was later pronounced dead at a local hospital.
Authorities have conducted a physical examination of the rapper's body, and toxicology tests will be carried out to confirm the cause of death, Betty Honey of the Fulton County Medical Examiner's office has said.
Music producer and rapper Jermaine Dupri, who is credited with finding Kriss Kross, has released a written statement saying, "To the world Chris was Mac Daddy but to me, he was a son I never had ...,"
"When I think about it, I spent more time with Chris and Chris than damn near anybody in my whole life, so you can imagine how bad this hurts. I will always love you Chris, and I will never let the world forget you, may God bless your soul."
According to a police report, the mother of the rapper – who was one-half of 1990s teen rap duo Kriss Kross – told authorities that her son became sick on the night before he died after taking cocaine and heroin.
Kelly was found dead on Wednesday, and now it has emerged that Kelly's mother, Donna Kelly Pratte, 54, and his uncle, Lamar Williams, 52, have reported to authorities that the music star had a history of drug abuse.
His family has said that Kelly has experienced similar episodes in the past, according to the Fulton County police report.
The 34 year old rap star was found by paramedics on his living room on a couch in Atlanta. He was given CPR, but was later pronounced dead at a local hospital.
Authorities have conducted a physical examination of the rapper's body, and toxicology tests will be carried out to confirm the cause of death, Betty Honey of the Fulton County Medical Examiner's office has said.
Music producer and rapper Jermaine Dupri, who is credited with finding Kriss Kross, has released a written statement saying, "To the world Chris was Mac Daddy but to me, he was a son I never had ...,"
"When I think about it, I spent more time with Chris and Chris than damn near anybody in my whole life, so you can imagine how bad this hurts. I will always love you Chris, and I will never let the world forget you, may God bless your soul."
Kobe Battles Mom
Kobe Battles Mom, NBA Lakers player Kobe Bryant and his mother are in the midst of a legal feud over high school items his mother has attempted to auction.
The items are mementos that belonged to the pro basketball player while he was growing up. Keepsakes include uniforms, rings and trophies that could be worth over a million dollars. His mother claims that Bryant had no interest in the items years ago.
Goldin Auctions in Berlin, N.J. issued an advertisement for the auctions on Tuesday, but Bryant's lawyer responded later that day with a cease and desist order. In the letter, Mark Campbell requests that the auction house return Bryant's items to their rightful owner.
"Mr. Bryant's personal property has ended up in the possession of someone who does not lawfully own it," Campbell said in a statement according to the Associated Press.
In turn, the auction house filed a lawsuit on Thursday seeking permission to sell the items, which have already been scheduled for a June auction. In part of the court order, Goldin alleges that Bryant had previously given the items to his mother.
''Kobe Bryant indicated to Pamela Bryant that the items belonged to her and that he had no interest in them,'' the auction house's attorneys wrote. The report claims that the items have been sitting in a $1,500-per-month New Jersey storage unit ever since.
Pamela Bryant received a $450,000 check from the auction house as down payment for the items to be auctioned, with additional profit to be made after the sale. Because of this and the fact that money has already been spent on advertisements to promote the auction, Goldin has claimed that the event cannot be canceled. But regardless, Bryant's lawyer showed hope that the case could be resolve in court.
"We look forward to resolving this legal matter through the legal system," he said.
The items are mementos that belonged to the pro basketball player while he was growing up. Keepsakes include uniforms, rings and trophies that could be worth over a million dollars. His mother claims that Bryant had no interest in the items years ago.
Goldin Auctions in Berlin, N.J. issued an advertisement for the auctions on Tuesday, but Bryant's lawyer responded later that day with a cease and desist order. In the letter, Mark Campbell requests that the auction house return Bryant's items to their rightful owner.
"Mr. Bryant's personal property has ended up in the possession of someone who does not lawfully own it," Campbell said in a statement according to the Associated Press.
In turn, the auction house filed a lawsuit on Thursday seeking permission to sell the items, which have already been scheduled for a June auction. In part of the court order, Goldin alleges that Bryant had previously given the items to his mother.
''Kobe Bryant indicated to Pamela Bryant that the items belonged to her and that he had no interest in them,'' the auction house's attorneys wrote. The report claims that the items have been sitting in a $1,500-per-month New Jersey storage unit ever since.
Pamela Bryant received a $450,000 check from the auction house as down payment for the items to be auctioned, with additional profit to be made after the sale. Because of this and the fact that money has already been spent on advertisements to promote the auction, Goldin has claimed that the event cannot be canceled. But regardless, Bryant's lawyer showed hope that the case could be resolve in court.
"We look forward to resolving this legal matter through the legal system," he said.
Eminem new album may 28, 2013
Eminem new album may 28, 2013, Eminem is "almost finished" with his new album according to long time collaborator Dr. Dre. I hope so! 'The Real Slim Shady' rappers is rumored to release the record May 28, the day after Memorial Day.
In fact two new songs, "Sick and Tired" and "Guilty" off the 2013 album are circulating the web and things viral found it's way to YouTube. Here's an unconfirmed taste of Em's 2013 album.
At first I couldn't tell if this was real or an Eminem poser. Apparently NME saw fit to post both as genuine leaks.
Keeping a tight lip, Shady Records President talked with Billboard about Eminem's upcoming album but didn't give away too much specific information.
"We fully expect to be releasing a new Eminem album in 2013. He's been working on it for some time. It's safe to say that it will be post-Memorial Day at some point, but we're not exactly sure when. We've got some dates locked in for him to perform live in Europe in August, so we're trying to see what else lines up."
Though no dates have been selected for the U.S., Eminem has confirmed August 15-25 European shows, wrapping up in the U.K. where he's headlining the Reading and Leeds Festivals. [August 23-25]. According to rumors around the Web, Tyler the Creator and Kendrick Lamar will be opening for the 8 Mile star.
Green Day, Fall Out Boy, Nine Inch Nails, Skrillex and The Lumineers are also scheduled headliners at the Reading and Leeds festivals this year.
In fact two new songs, "Sick and Tired" and "Guilty" off the 2013 album are circulating the web and things viral found it's way to YouTube. Here's an unconfirmed taste of Em's 2013 album.
At first I couldn't tell if this was real or an Eminem poser. Apparently NME saw fit to post both as genuine leaks.
Keeping a tight lip, Shady Records President talked with Billboard about Eminem's upcoming album but didn't give away too much specific information.
"We fully expect to be releasing a new Eminem album in 2013. He's been working on it for some time. It's safe to say that it will be post-Memorial Day at some point, but we're not exactly sure when. We've got some dates locked in for him to perform live in Europe in August, so we're trying to see what else lines up."
Though no dates have been selected for the U.S., Eminem has confirmed August 15-25 European shows, wrapping up in the U.K. where he's headlining the Reading and Leeds Festivals. [August 23-25]. According to rumors around the Web, Tyler the Creator and Kendrick Lamar will be opening for the 8 Mile star.
Green Day, Fall Out Boy, Nine Inch Nails, Skrillex and The Lumineers are also scheduled headliners at the Reading and Leeds festivals this year.
May Snow 18 Inches
May Snow 18 Inches, Arbor Day celebrations have come and gone, but winter weather is gripping the Plains and Upper Midwest. The storm that dumped snow in the Rockies a day earlier is threatening to blanket parts of the region with up to 8 inches of snow on Thursday.
The National Weather Service warns: "Significant accumulations of snow continue to be reported across portions of southeast Minnesota and northeast Iowa, with over 15 inches already in Dodge Center, (Minn.)."
AccuWeather says the lumbering storm will plow farther south and east, arriving in surprising locations: "There is even a chance of wet snowflakes being seen as far south as the Ozark Mountains in Missouri and Arkansas before the week ends. Some folks [in] northern Alabama, northern Mississippi and the southern Appalachians may spy snowflakes by early next week."
The snowstorm has already set records for May in other locales, according to the Weather Channel, citing places such as Omaha, Neb., (3 inches), Topeka, Kan. (more than an inch) and Sioux Falls, S.D. (1.5 inches). The area around Cheyenne, Wyo. was socked, with some areas reporting as much as 15 inches of snow, KGWN-TV says.
The Weather Channel is also making predictions for this weekend's Kentucky Derby as another low pressure system in the Midwest starts sucking in moisture from the Gulf of Mexico.
"Put simply, if this plume of moisture pushes as far east as Louisville, this weekend could be a soaker," says the media outlet. It adds, "according to the National Weather Service in Louisville, Ky., 46% of the 138 Derby Days have featured at least some rain during the day."
The National Weather Service warns: "Significant accumulations of snow continue to be reported across portions of southeast Minnesota and northeast Iowa, with over 15 inches already in Dodge Center, (Minn.)."
AccuWeather says the lumbering storm will plow farther south and east, arriving in surprising locations: "There is even a chance of wet snowflakes being seen as far south as the Ozark Mountains in Missouri and Arkansas before the week ends. Some folks [in] northern Alabama, northern Mississippi and the southern Appalachians may spy snowflakes by early next week."
The snowstorm has already set records for May in other locales, according to the Weather Channel, citing places such as Omaha, Neb., (3 inches), Topeka, Kan. (more than an inch) and Sioux Falls, S.D. (1.5 inches). The area around Cheyenne, Wyo. was socked, with some areas reporting as much as 15 inches of snow, KGWN-TV says.
The Weather Channel is also making predictions for this weekend's Kentucky Derby as another low pressure system in the Midwest starts sucking in moisture from the Gulf of Mexico.
"Put simply, if this plume of moisture pushes as far east as Louisville, this weekend could be a soaker," says the media outlet. It adds, "according to the National Weather Service in Louisville, Ky., 46% of the 138 Derby Days have featured at least some rain during the day."
Two more men charged in death of man found shot in chest on sidewalk in Atlanta
Two more men charged in death of man found shot in chest on sidewalk in Atlanta, Nine months after a man was shot and left to die on a southeast Atlanta sidewalk, two more suspects have been charged with his murder.
That day, witnesses said they saw three men fleeing the scene – and police believe they now have the three in custody.
Mr. Dedrick Hale, 18, and Mr. Quinterious Hogans, 20, were charged with murder, felony murder, aggravated assault, criminal attempt to commit armed robbery and possession of a firearm during commission of a felony on April 22, Atlanta police said Thursday.
The third suspect, Mr. Andre Byrd, now 23, was arrested on similar charges in October, police spokesman Officer John Chafee said.
Officers found Mr. David McReynolds, 54, dead of a gunshot wound to the chest on July 26 in the 700 block of Hill Street, police said.
Neighborhood residents reported hearing gunfire shortly after 4 p.m. and seeing three men fleeing the area, police previously said.
The men are being held at the Fulton County jail.
That day, witnesses said they saw three men fleeing the scene – and police believe they now have the three in custody.
Mr. Dedrick Hale, 18, and Mr. Quinterious Hogans, 20, were charged with murder, felony murder, aggravated assault, criminal attempt to commit armed robbery and possession of a firearm during commission of a felony on April 22, Atlanta police said Thursday.
The third suspect, Mr. Andre Byrd, now 23, was arrested on similar charges in October, police spokesman Officer John Chafee said.
Officers found Mr. David McReynolds, 54, dead of a gunshot wound to the chest on July 26 in the 700 block of Hill Street, police said.
Neighborhood residents reported hearing gunfire shortly after 4 p.m. and seeing three men fleeing the area, police previously said.
The men are being held at the Fulton County jail.
Do Libertarians deserve better spokespeople than the Pauls?
Do Libertarians deserve better spokespeople than the Pauls?, MSNBC host Lawrence O'Donnell called the Pauls "paranoid, lying politicians" in a 9:20 minute video rant and, according to a Raw Story report "extended sympathy to who he called 'honest Libertarians' by saying "You deserve better spokesmen than Ron and Rand."
O'Donnell first ran a clip of Rand Paul saying "no American should be killed by a drone on American soil without first being charged with a crime" and followed it with a second clip in which he completely contradicts himself.
Then O'Donnell dissects Ron Paul's LewRocksell.com article about Boston authorities' handling of the search for the Boston Marathon bombers and claims his first paragraph has six sentences that contain five "lies" like "Forced lockdown," and " Militarized police riding tanks in the streets," and "Door-to-door armed searches without warrant."
To round it off, the MSNBC host then displays a Rand Paul quote which clearly contradicts his father's entire statement.
There's little doubt in this age of unyielding culture war that Ron Paul fans, Libertarian-leaning Republicans and many self-identified "honest libertarians" will soundly reject O'Donnell and adamantly defend their heroes. They'll also strenuously vilify O'Donnell as a liberal, a Democrat, a socialist, and worse.
Unfortunately, vilifying O'Donnell changes nothing.
Readers of Libertarian News Examiner, where Ron Paul is typically referred to as Libertarian-leaning or Libertarian-Republican while Rand Paul has been either tepidly accepted or openly challenged about his Libertarian creds, should be little surprised by any of this ("Are Ron Paul Republicans hijacking the libertarian movement?").
So while O'Donnell doesn't define "honest libertarian" Libertarian News Examiner will:
The fundamental definition of a libertarian is "one who accepts and consistently applies the Zero Aggression Principle."
This means never initiating or advocating the initiation of force, intimidation or fraud against another person or group while maintaining the right to use force in defense of self and others.
Does that describe Ron and Rand?
If not, "honest libertarians" should do what they always should do:
1. Reject the Pauls outright ("'Libertarian' Rand Paul approves legalized kidnapping and assassination bill"), or
2. Accept them as the most high profile spokespeople libertarianism has developed so far and relentlessly praise them when they're right and mercilessly challenge and correct them when they're wrong ("Mainstream Libertarianism versus the real thing").
All the while continuing to move the Modern American Libertarian Movement forward ("Where do libertarians come from?").
Don't miss a NATIONAL LIBERTARIAN NEWS EXAMINER article: subscribe to my email alerts and then have fun hitting all those other social media buttons too.
Libertarians! What's happening in your area? Send me stories, photos, videos to publish in Libertarian News Examiner. greededitor@aol.com.
Read more Reed: North Texas news and commentary at Dallas Libertarian Examiner.
Also twiddling with Twitter and fiddling with Facebook.
O'Donnell first ran a clip of Rand Paul saying "no American should be killed by a drone on American soil without first being charged with a crime" and followed it with a second clip in which he completely contradicts himself.
Then O'Donnell dissects Ron Paul's LewRocksell.com article about Boston authorities' handling of the search for the Boston Marathon bombers and claims his first paragraph has six sentences that contain five "lies" like "Forced lockdown," and " Militarized police riding tanks in the streets," and "Door-to-door armed searches without warrant."
To round it off, the MSNBC host then displays a Rand Paul quote which clearly contradicts his father's entire statement.
There's little doubt in this age of unyielding culture war that Ron Paul fans, Libertarian-leaning Republicans and many self-identified "honest libertarians" will soundly reject O'Donnell and adamantly defend their heroes. They'll also strenuously vilify O'Donnell as a liberal, a Democrat, a socialist, and worse.
Unfortunately, vilifying O'Donnell changes nothing.
Readers of Libertarian News Examiner, where Ron Paul is typically referred to as Libertarian-leaning or Libertarian-Republican while Rand Paul has been either tepidly accepted or openly challenged about his Libertarian creds, should be little surprised by any of this ("Are Ron Paul Republicans hijacking the libertarian movement?").
So while O'Donnell doesn't define "honest libertarian" Libertarian News Examiner will:
The fundamental definition of a libertarian is "one who accepts and consistently applies the Zero Aggression Principle."
This means never initiating or advocating the initiation of force, intimidation or fraud against another person or group while maintaining the right to use force in defense of self and others.
Does that describe Ron and Rand?
If not, "honest libertarians" should do what they always should do:
1. Reject the Pauls outright ("'Libertarian' Rand Paul approves legalized kidnapping and assassination bill"), or
2. Accept them as the most high profile spokespeople libertarianism has developed so far and relentlessly praise them when they're right and mercilessly challenge and correct them when they're wrong ("Mainstream Libertarianism versus the real thing").
All the while continuing to move the Modern American Libertarian Movement forward ("Where do libertarians come from?").
Don't miss a NATIONAL LIBERTARIAN NEWS EXAMINER article: subscribe to my email alerts and then have fun hitting all those other social media buttons too.
Libertarians! What's happening in your area? Send me stories, photos, videos to publish in Libertarian News Examiner. greededitor@aol.com.
Read more Reed: North Texas news and commentary at Dallas Libertarian Examiner.
Also twiddling with Twitter and fiddling with Facebook.
Kelly Ripa 1996 photo
Kelly Ripa 1996 photo, Kelly Ripa has posted a 1996 photo on her Twitter page, showing herself and husband Mark Consuelos together 17 years ago.
The photo shows the couple together looking ecstatic on their wedding day, and fans of Ripa have praised the picture that has now gone viral.
Ripa can be seen in her wedding dress, and her husband can be seen in a black shirt; the pair can be seen looking into each other's eyes posing for the camera on their big day. The TV host tweeted that she still loves her husband as much as she did 17 years ago.
Just earlier this year Ripa made a Botox admission, surprising many of her fans. The talk show host admitted that she uses injections to keep her skin from sagging.
The 42 year old was not shy about revealing the secret to maintaining her youthful looks. In an interview with Elle, she admitted that she regularly receives injections, including Botox, and that it all goes to helping her skin not sag, according to Radar Online.
Ripa has always adamantly denied ever going under the knife to maintain her looks, however, she openly admitted to receiving less invasive help through the injections.
Speaking to Elle, she also explained how she received Botox injections in her armpits, as well as her face regularly.
She said, "Every seven months or so my eyelid skin rests on my eyelashes. So I feel like it makes my makeup artist's life easier, and it makes my eyes look a little more open on TV, which is where I happen to work right now."
Ripa played Hayley Vaughan on the television soap opera All My Children from 1990 through 2002, and is best known as co-host of the popular syndicated morning talk show Live! With Kelly and Michael.
She is also well-known for her role as Faith Fairfield on Hope & Faith.
Despite being better known for her roles on television, Ripa also has several feature films to her credit. She appeared in the acclaimed Miramax feature Marvin's Room in 1996, which also co-starred Meryl Streep and Leonardo DiCaprio.
In 1999, she won the Best Actress Award at the New York International Independent Film and Video Festival for her work in The Stand-In.
More recently, she was part of the voice cast of the computer-generated animated feature Fly Me to the Moon.
The photo shows the couple together looking ecstatic on their wedding day, and fans of Ripa have praised the picture that has now gone viral.
Ripa can be seen in her wedding dress, and her husband can be seen in a black shirt; the pair can be seen looking into each other's eyes posing for the camera on their big day. The TV host tweeted that she still loves her husband as much as she did 17 years ago.
Just earlier this year Ripa made a Botox admission, surprising many of her fans. The talk show host admitted that she uses injections to keep her skin from sagging.
The 42 year old was not shy about revealing the secret to maintaining her youthful looks. In an interview with Elle, she admitted that she regularly receives injections, including Botox, and that it all goes to helping her skin not sag, according to Radar Online.
Ripa has always adamantly denied ever going under the knife to maintain her looks, however, she openly admitted to receiving less invasive help through the injections.
Speaking to Elle, she also explained how she received Botox injections in her armpits, as well as her face regularly.
She said, "Every seven months or so my eyelid skin rests on my eyelashes. So I feel like it makes my makeup artist's life easier, and it makes my eyes look a little more open on TV, which is where I happen to work right now."
Ripa played Hayley Vaughan on the television soap opera All My Children from 1990 through 2002, and is best known as co-host of the popular syndicated morning talk show Live! With Kelly and Michael.
She is also well-known for her role as Faith Fairfield on Hope & Faith.
Despite being better known for her roles on television, Ripa also has several feature films to her credit. She appeared in the acclaimed Miramax feature Marvin's Room in 1996, which also co-starred Meryl Streep and Leonardo DiCaprio.
In 1999, she won the Best Actress Award at the New York International Independent Film and Video Festival for her work in The Stand-In.
More recently, she was part of the voice cast of the computer-generated animated feature Fly Me to the Moon.
No hazard found in suspicious letter at Daytona VA Clinic Thursday
No hazard found in suspicious letter at Daytona VA Clinic Thursday, No hazards were found in a suspicious letter at the Veterans Affairs Outpatient Clinic in Daytona Beach Thursday afternoon. Daytona Beach Fire Department spokesperson Lt.
Larry Stoney says a caller Thursday warned of the letter at the clinic. Daytona Beach Fire Department and Volusia County Fire Services Units responded to the clinic and secured the building in the 500 block of National Healthcare Drive.
The Volusia County Hazardous Materials Team then checked the letter and determined that “…the envelope was clear and no hazard was discovered.” Evidence from the incident was turned over to federal authorities.
Larry Stoney says a caller Thursday warned of the letter at the clinic. Daytona Beach Fire Department and Volusia County Fire Services Units responded to the clinic and secured the building in the 500 block of National Healthcare Drive.
The Volusia County Hazardous Materials Team then checked the letter and determined that “…the envelope was clear and no hazard was discovered.” Evidence from the incident was turned over to federal authorities.
Teen mom banned from yearbook: Caitlin Tiller's photo with son removed
Teen mom banned from yearbook: Caitlin Tiller's photo with son removed, The students had been encouraged to use props in their senior photos that represented their achievements. Tiller says that having her son in April 2012 pushed her to work harder, and as a result she managed to graduate early. She began college classes in January and has been working at a job 30 hours a week. She says she wouldn't be who she is today without her son.
The photo featuring Caitlin and her son Leelin was submitted, and she was told just two days before the yearbook went to print that the teen mom was banned from having that photo in the yearbook. She was told she could provide a different photo or could use the photo with her baby in the “Senior Advertising” section in the back of the book.
Tiller says her message is that people can make mistakes and overcome them, and she sees the photo as one that sends a positive message. The school did not reply to Huffington Post's request for a comment, and Randolph County Schools is said to be standing by their decision regarding the teen mom's ban from the yearbook.
The photo featuring Caitlin and her son Leelin was submitted, and she was told just two days before the yearbook went to print that the teen mom was banned from having that photo in the yearbook. She was told she could provide a different photo or could use the photo with her baby in the “Senior Advertising” section in the back of the book.
Tiller says her message is that people can make mistakes and overcome them, and she sees the photo as one that sends a positive message. The school did not reply to Huffington Post's request for a comment, and Randolph County Schools is said to be standing by their decision regarding the teen mom's ban from the yearbook.
SCOTUS grants a 30-day extension to Illinois AG to file 'conceal and carry' writ
SCOTUS grants a 30-day extension to Illinois AG to file 'conceal and carry' writ, The United States Supreme Court (SCOTUS) today has granted the Attorney General of Illinois a 30-day extension to "file a petition for a writ of certiorari from May 23, 2013 to June 24, 2013." The application for delay to file a petition of certiorari was signed by President Obama's appointment and former advisor, Justice Elena Kagan. The application was filed by Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan on April 26, 2013 and was today granted to the Illinois AG.
The conservative United States Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit, had ruled that the state of Illinois must enact a "conceal and carry law by June 9, 2013 by the Illinois state legislature. An appeal could further delay this deadline for the state of Illinois.
Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan released a statement published by Rich Miller's Capitol Fax. "The extension allows for additional time to prepare a draft petition to allow the Attorney General to make a final decision on whether to seek cert, as the legislature continues to work toward the June 9 deadline set by the 7th Circuit Court of Appeals. The 180-day clock does not stop as a result of this extension. It also doesn’t delay or impact when the case might be considered by the U.S. Supreme Court, if the Attorney General ultimately decides to seek cert."
It is uncertain at this point exactly what this means. This extension granted by Justice Elena Kagan does not stop the June 9 deadline imposed by the United States Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit, meaning the legislature still has to come up with a concealed-carry law. However, Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan could change this if her office does decide to appeal the 7th Circuit.
The legislation comes down to downstate lawmakers favoring a "shall issue" law that would require the state to issue a concealed-carry permit to anyone who meets prescribed requirements. Chicago-area lawmakers generally favor a "may issue" law that would be more strict, and would give Chicago-area officials the authority to deny permits. State Senator Kwame Raoul has a proposal that would require applicants to be of "good moral character" and have "proper reason" to obtain a permit to carry a concealed weapon.
One thing is certain. This issue is not a done deal for either side and spiking the ball in the end zone would be premature. Illinois State Rifle Association Executive Director Richard Pearson said that "in my opinion it does nothing." Sounds like the ISRA is already spiking the ball.
Send John Presta an email and your story ideas or suggestions to johnpresta@att.net.
John is the author of an award-winning book, the 2010 Winner of the USA National Best Book award for African-American studies, published by The Elevator Group Mr. and Mrs. Grassroots: How Barack Obama, Two Bookstore Owners, and 300 Volunteers did it. Also available an eBook on Amazon. John is also a member of the Society of Midland Authors and is a book reviewer of political books for the New York Journal of Books. John has volunteered for many political campaigns.
The conservative United States Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit, had ruled that the state of Illinois must enact a "conceal and carry law by June 9, 2013 by the Illinois state legislature. An appeal could further delay this deadline for the state of Illinois.
Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan released a statement published by Rich Miller's Capitol Fax. "The extension allows for additional time to prepare a draft petition to allow the Attorney General to make a final decision on whether to seek cert, as the legislature continues to work toward the June 9 deadline set by the 7th Circuit Court of Appeals. The 180-day clock does not stop as a result of this extension. It also doesn’t delay or impact when the case might be considered by the U.S. Supreme Court, if the Attorney General ultimately decides to seek cert."
It is uncertain at this point exactly what this means. This extension granted by Justice Elena Kagan does not stop the June 9 deadline imposed by the United States Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit, meaning the legislature still has to come up with a concealed-carry law. However, Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan could change this if her office does decide to appeal the 7th Circuit.
The legislation comes down to downstate lawmakers favoring a "shall issue" law that would require the state to issue a concealed-carry permit to anyone who meets prescribed requirements. Chicago-area lawmakers generally favor a "may issue" law that would be more strict, and would give Chicago-area officials the authority to deny permits. State Senator Kwame Raoul has a proposal that would require applicants to be of "good moral character" and have "proper reason" to obtain a permit to carry a concealed weapon.
One thing is certain. This issue is not a done deal for either side and spiking the ball in the end zone would be premature. Illinois State Rifle Association Executive Director Richard Pearson said that "in my opinion it does nothing." Sounds like the ISRA is already spiking the ball.
Send John Presta an email and your story ideas or suggestions to johnpresta@att.net.
John is the author of an award-winning book, the 2010 Winner of the USA National Best Book award for African-American studies, published by The Elevator Group Mr. and Mrs. Grassroots: How Barack Obama, Two Bookstore Owners, and 300 Volunteers did it. Also available an eBook on Amazon. John is also a member of the Society of Midland Authors and is a book reviewer of political books for the New York Journal of Books. John has volunteered for many political campaigns.
The Kentucky Dirty: Sex toy races the new way to waste money in Vegas
The Kentucky Dirty: Sex toy races the new way to waste money in Vegas, It seems that Las Vegas really does have something for everyone, especially now that people can go waste their money on sex toy racing for the "Kentucky Dirty," reports Huffington Post on May 2. The new racing concept was created by Frederic Walme the CEO of Fun Factory, a creator and distributor of adult sex toys.
The Kentucky Dirty is easy to easy enough for everyone to play, simply place your bet on which vibrator you want to win, then watch as the battery operated vibrators buzz across the finish line in a 1.5 mph race. The sex toys propel themselves on a piece of paper using a new technology that Fun Factory called "drive." It's not the most difficult game but it is more complex than playing Keno.
Walme claims that it gets players all riled up to race their favorite dildoes. Huffington Post says that they will be attending the next race when the Kentucky Dirty comes to New York's History of Sex Museum. HuffPo will be there to raise money for a LGBT charity.
While it may be weird, and likely make people uncomfortable, it could be just the thing to help raise money for many various LGBT charities, AIDS, and other "sexual" groups and charities.
The Kentucky Dirty is easy to easy enough for everyone to play, simply place your bet on which vibrator you want to win, then watch as the battery operated vibrators buzz across the finish line in a 1.5 mph race. The sex toys propel themselves on a piece of paper using a new technology that Fun Factory called "drive." It's not the most difficult game but it is more complex than playing Keno.
Walme claims that it gets players all riled up to race their favorite dildoes. Huffington Post says that they will be attending the next race when the Kentucky Dirty comes to New York's History of Sex Museum. HuffPo will be there to raise money for a LGBT charity.
While it may be weird, and likely make people uncomfortable, it could be just the thing to help raise money for many various LGBT charities, AIDS, and other "sexual" groups and charities.
Man arrested after allegedly beating teen so badly he requred surgery on his jaw
Man arrested after allegedly beating teen so badly he requred surgery on his jaw, A 33-year-old Cartersville man was arrested Thursday for allegedly beating a teen so badly he required surgery for his jaw.
So far, investigators have not said what prompted the assault, which occurred while the two were playing basketball inside a church’s gym.
They have charged Mr. Marcus Deanglo Henderson with aggravated battery for the incident, which happened on April 23, the Bartow County Sheriff’s Office said Friday.
Investigators said the 17-year-old was playing basketball at an Adairsville Church gym when he was assaulted by another player.
“The victim received a broken jaw during the assault requiring surgery to repair the damage,” Sheriff Clark Millsap said in an emailed statement.
Through witnesses and video surveillance taken from the gym, deputies were able to identify Mr. Henderson as the suspect, the sheriff said.
He was booked into the Bartow County Jail on Thursday, officials said.
No further details were provided on the teen’s condition on Friday.
So far, investigators have not said what prompted the assault, which occurred while the two were playing basketball inside a church’s gym.
They have charged Mr. Marcus Deanglo Henderson with aggravated battery for the incident, which happened on April 23, the Bartow County Sheriff’s Office said Friday.
Investigators said the 17-year-old was playing basketball at an Adairsville Church gym when he was assaulted by another player.
“The victim received a broken jaw during the assault requiring surgery to repair the damage,” Sheriff Clark Millsap said in an emailed statement.
Through witnesses and video surveillance taken from the gym, deputies were able to identify Mr. Henderson as the suspect, the sheriff said.
He was booked into the Bartow County Jail on Thursday, officials said.
No further details were provided on the teen’s condition on Friday.
North Carolina man robs bank to pay for Disney cruise
North Carolina man robs bank to pay for Disney cruise, Cedrick Royce Swinson should be sailing aboard a Disney cruise ship right now, but instead, he is sitting in a Florida jail. Florida Today reports that the 37-year-old, North Carolina man made a quick stop to rob a bank on May 2, 2013.
Swinson, his girlfriend and her two children drove overnight to Brevard County to start their magical vacation. When trying to withdraw the cash for the final cruise payment, he found it was not available for withdrawal. Investigators say this is when he felt 'pressured' to keep his promise for their long awaited vacation.
Swinson walked into the Navy Federal Credit Union around 10:40 a.m., walked past the customer service representatives to the counter and slid a note to the teller according to witnesses. They also he put his hand in his jacket pocket to make it appear that he had a gun. Once he received the money he returned to his vehicle, where his girlfriend and the children were waiting.
Police were alerted by a bank alarm and spotted Swinson's vehicle minutes later. Police took Swinson into custody and brought to Brevard County Jail. Officer's recovered the stolen cash, but did not find any weapons in the vehicle.
His girlfriend was questioned and released, as police do not believe she had any knowledge of Swinson's plan.
"She was horrified and the children were upset. They watched as we took him into custody," said Commander Brad Hodge of the Satellite Beach Police Department.
Swinson was booked on robbery, grand theft and driving on a suspended license.
For email updates when a new article is posted, please subscribe at the top of the page.
Swinson, his girlfriend and her two children drove overnight to Brevard County to start their magical vacation. When trying to withdraw the cash for the final cruise payment, he found it was not available for withdrawal. Investigators say this is when he felt 'pressured' to keep his promise for their long awaited vacation.
Swinson walked into the Navy Federal Credit Union around 10:40 a.m., walked past the customer service representatives to the counter and slid a note to the teller according to witnesses. They also he put his hand in his jacket pocket to make it appear that he had a gun. Once he received the money he returned to his vehicle, where his girlfriend and the children were waiting.
Police were alerted by a bank alarm and spotted Swinson's vehicle minutes later. Police took Swinson into custody and brought to Brevard County Jail. Officer's recovered the stolen cash, but did not find any weapons in the vehicle.
His girlfriend was questioned and released, as police do not believe she had any knowledge of Swinson's plan.
"She was horrified and the children were upset. They watched as we took him into custody," said Commander Brad Hodge of the Satellite Beach Police Department.
Swinson was booked on robbery, grand theft and driving on a suspended license.
For email updates when a new article is posted, please subscribe at the top of the page.
Lake County crash Friday morning claims one person
Lake County crash Friday morning claims one person, An Astor man was killed in a Lake County accident early Friday according to the Florida Highway Patrol. FHP spokesperson Sgt. Kim Montes says 29-year old Clifford Gary was westbound on State Road 44 around 1:10 a.m. Friday, when he lost control of the SUV he was driving in the area of Fish Camp Road.
Troopers say the SUV traveled onto the south shoulder of the road for an unknown reason, and the right side of the SUV hit a pole. The FHP says Gary was entrapped in the vehicle and pronounced dead at the scene. Troopers are also continuing their crash investigation in the case.
Troopers say the SUV traveled onto the south shoulder of the road for an unknown reason, and the right side of the SUV hit a pole. The FHP says Gary was entrapped in the vehicle and pronounced dead at the scene. Troopers are also continuing their crash investigation in the case.
Chinese food crimes: Beef and mutton were actually fox, mink and rat
Chinese food crimes: Beef and mutton were actually fox, mink and rat, Imagine visiting your favorite market in Shanghai and buying meat for a delicious Chinese beef or mutton dish. Now imagine that the "beef" and "mutton" is actually rat, fox or mink meat. The skin crawls at the thought, but Shanghai and Jiangsu markets have been selling mystery meat for at least four years.
Officials started an investigation and sting operation after the floating dead pig scandal erupted earlier this year. Between January and now, police have arrested 904 suspects and closed 1,721 factories.
The crimes-against-meat operation also confiscated 20,000 tons of fake, diseased or adulterated meat. According to a May 3 article in the LA Times, a combination of pig dumping and lethal bird flu has driven meat eaters away from pork and fowl. Finding other forms of safe, healthy protein is now an unhealthy, toxic gamble.
This is the third major food scandal in eastern China this year. Almost 20,000 dead pigs were found floating in a river that supplies drinking water to Shanghai. The pigs came from Jiaxing city and led to a massive crackdown.
Four people were arrested this month for selling dead pigs to slaughterhouses. In March, nearly 3,000 dead ducks were dumped in the Nanhe river. Although there is no scientific connection, many wonder how the H7N9 bird flu came so soon afterward. H7N9 is one of the most lethal viruses in recorded history.
Meat is not the only substituted or adulterated food sold in China's markets. According to a May 3 New York Times article, there are reports of fruit and vegetables with disease, toxins, banned dyes and unhealthy preservatives.
Mao Shoulong is a professor of public policy at Renmin University in Beijing. He has studied food and drug safety regulation. In an interview he said, “The United States and Europe can’t eradicate these problems either, but they are even more complicated in China.”
China's new leadership vowed to clear up food quality and safety as one of the people's top grievances. This may not be easy as officials have inadequate resources. Rival agencies pass the buck and make progress difficult. And then there is the issue of corruption and protectionism by local officials.
With issues like fake beef jerky, toxic chicken feet, pigs injected with water, and pesticide laden lamb meat, China has a long way to go before the nation's food can be trusted. Western nations cannot feel superior either.
The recent EU horse meat scandals have not been resolved. Sequestration budget cuts are guaranteed to hurt U.S. food regulation and import control efforts. As a result, the entire world can consider food safety a global issue that cannot be ignored.
Officials started an investigation and sting operation after the floating dead pig scandal erupted earlier this year. Between January and now, police have arrested 904 suspects and closed 1,721 factories.
The crimes-against-meat operation also confiscated 20,000 tons of fake, diseased or adulterated meat. According to a May 3 article in the LA Times, a combination of pig dumping and lethal bird flu has driven meat eaters away from pork and fowl. Finding other forms of safe, healthy protein is now an unhealthy, toxic gamble.
This is the third major food scandal in eastern China this year. Almost 20,000 dead pigs were found floating in a river that supplies drinking water to Shanghai. The pigs came from Jiaxing city and led to a massive crackdown.
Four people were arrested this month for selling dead pigs to slaughterhouses. In March, nearly 3,000 dead ducks were dumped in the Nanhe river. Although there is no scientific connection, many wonder how the H7N9 bird flu came so soon afterward. H7N9 is one of the most lethal viruses in recorded history.
Meat is not the only substituted or adulterated food sold in China's markets. According to a May 3 New York Times article, there are reports of fruit and vegetables with disease, toxins, banned dyes and unhealthy preservatives.
Mao Shoulong is a professor of public policy at Renmin University in Beijing. He has studied food and drug safety regulation. In an interview he said, “The United States and Europe can’t eradicate these problems either, but they are even more complicated in China.”
China's new leadership vowed to clear up food quality and safety as one of the people's top grievances. This may not be easy as officials have inadequate resources. Rival agencies pass the buck and make progress difficult. And then there is the issue of corruption and protectionism by local officials.
With issues like fake beef jerky, toxic chicken feet, pigs injected with water, and pesticide laden lamb meat, China has a long way to go before the nation's food can be trusted. Western nations cannot feel superior either.
The recent EU horse meat scandals have not been resolved. Sequestration budget cuts are guaranteed to hurt U.S. food regulation and import control efforts. As a result, the entire world can consider food safety a global issue that cannot be ignored.
Kim cattrall 56
Kim cattrall 56, Kim Cattrall has admitted that she is able to continue being "a sexy siren" and "100-watt sex bomb" on screen at age 56 because she has "been on a diet since 1974".
The Sex and the City star told Woman & Home that although she is not "obsessive" about how she looks, she has kept a close eye on her physique for the past two decades.
"When I hit my 40s I thought, 'I can't play a sexy siren anymore'," she said. "Almost 20 years later, it's still going on.
"I joke that I've been on a diet since 1974, which is basically true. I like to eat, and my body type is not naturally this thin, especially at this age. So I do watch what I eat and drink but I'm not obsessive - it's just a way of life."
Cattrall also addressed her reputation as a daunting and powerful woman, saying that she cannot help those men who are scared of her.
"I don't know if men are intimidated by me - you'll have to ask men," she said. "If my accomplishments frighten someone, it's nothing to do with me - that's to do with them.
"But the men who are in my life see me as a person... My male friends don't seem to have any feelings of intimidation that I'm a 100-watt sex bomb standing next to them; they are able to distinguish between the Kim that is their friend, and the characters I have played."
The Sex and the City star told Woman & Home that although she is not "obsessive" about how she looks, she has kept a close eye on her physique for the past two decades.
"When I hit my 40s I thought, 'I can't play a sexy siren anymore'," she said. "Almost 20 years later, it's still going on.
"I joke that I've been on a diet since 1974, which is basically true. I like to eat, and my body type is not naturally this thin, especially at this age. So I do watch what I eat and drink but I'm not obsessive - it's just a way of life."
Cattrall also addressed her reputation as a daunting and powerful woman, saying that she cannot help those men who are scared of her.
"I don't know if men are intimidated by me - you'll have to ask men," she said. "If my accomplishments frighten someone, it's nothing to do with me - that's to do with them.
"But the men who are in my life see me as a person... My male friends don't seem to have any feelings of intimidation that I'm a 100-watt sex bomb standing next to them; they are able to distinguish between the Kim that is their friend, and the characters I have played."
Reese witherspoon arrest disorderly conduct
Reese witherspoon arrest disorderly conduct, A dash-cam video of Reese Witherspoon's recent disorderly-conduct arrest provides a rare glimpse of one of Hollywood's best-known actresses unfiltered as she, after "one too many" glasses of wine, takes on a no-nonsense Georgia state trooper following her husband's traffic stop.
In video of the April 19 early-morning incident in Atlanta, posted Thursday by the website TMZ, the 37-year-old actress seeks to intercede as her husband is being administered a field sobriety test by the trooper.
Trooper First Class J. Pyland tells Witherspoon to stay in the couple's vehicle no fewer than five times. For her part, Witherspoon is equally determined to get out and engage him, even at one point feigning to be pregnant and saying she needs to use the bathroom.
When the trooper starts to arrest her, she lets loose. The 5-foot-1 Witherspoon turns to yell at him while being handcuffed and accuses the trooper of harassment, at one point prompting him to warn her, "You fight me, I promise you ..."
Witherspoon's husband, Hollywood agent Jim Toth, mostly observes the exchange, but tries to calm her after the trooper's warning about resisting arrest.
TMZ posted the video from the trooper's vehicle hours after Witherspoon appeared on ABC's "Good Morning America" to apologize for her behavior.
In her first sit-down interview about the arrest, the Oscar-winning actress and mother of three said she had "one too many" glasses of wine, and panicked after she and her husband were pulled over.
"I have no idea what I was saying that night," she said. "I literally panicked. I said all kinds of crazy things. I told them I was pregnant. I'm not pregnant."
The police report states Witherspoon asked the trooper, "Do you know my name?" and added, "You're about to find out who I am."
The dash-cam video shows the situation quickly escalating. In one video clip, the trooper appears to be examining Toth when Witherspoon, out of view, starts to get out of her vehicle.
"Ma'am, get back in that car," the trooper tells her.She apologizes, and asks if she can say something. "No ma'am," he says, "get back in that car. I'm not going to repeat myself again."
Later, when Witherspoon continues to try to intervene, the trooper handcuffs her."You better not arrest me! Are you kidding me?" she asks."Nope," he responds.
She protests again, "I'm an American citizen!" The trooper leans toward her and says he told her to stay in the car.She repeats "This is beyond!" She turns to yell at the trooper as he's handcuffing her and he raises his chin and warns her against resisting arrest.
As Witherspoon is taken out of view, she can be heard asking, "Do you know my name sir?" When he says he doesn't need to, she asks, "You don't need to know my name?" He says "Not quite yet," and she adds, "Oh really. OK, you're about to find out who I am."
The trooper responds, "That's fine. I'm not real worried about you, ma'am. I done told you how things worked. You want to get out and get up in my investigation, that's OK."As the trooper returns to Toth, he tells him, "I tried"
Toth says "I'm sorry," and the trooper adds, "I absolutely 100 percent tried."
Toth then tries to put some distance between him and his wife's outburst."I had nothing to do with that," Toth tells the trooper."I know," he responds.Toth was charged with drunken driving and is due in court May 23. Witherspoon faces a May 22 court hearing on the disorderly conduct charge.
Shortly after her jail release, the star of hit movies such as "Walk The Line," "Legally Blonde," "Sweet Home Alabama" and "Election" issued a statement saying there was "no excuse" for her behavior.
"I was disrespectful to the officer who was just doing his job. The words I used that night definitely do not reflect who I am. I have nothing but respect for the police and I am very sorry for my behavior."
Two lawyers for Witherspoon, one in Los Angeles and one in Atlanta, did not immediately return calls from The Associated Press seeking comment Thursday.
"There are so many lessons learned," she told ABC on Thursday."When a police officer tells you to stay in the car, you stay in the car," she said. "I learned that for sure. I learned a lot."
In video of the April 19 early-morning incident in Atlanta, posted Thursday by the website TMZ, the 37-year-old actress seeks to intercede as her husband is being administered a field sobriety test by the trooper.
Trooper First Class J. Pyland tells Witherspoon to stay in the couple's vehicle no fewer than five times. For her part, Witherspoon is equally determined to get out and engage him, even at one point feigning to be pregnant and saying she needs to use the bathroom.
When the trooper starts to arrest her, she lets loose. The 5-foot-1 Witherspoon turns to yell at him while being handcuffed and accuses the trooper of harassment, at one point prompting him to warn her, "You fight me, I promise you ..."
Witherspoon's husband, Hollywood agent Jim Toth, mostly observes the exchange, but tries to calm her after the trooper's warning about resisting arrest.
TMZ posted the video from the trooper's vehicle hours after Witherspoon appeared on ABC's "Good Morning America" to apologize for her behavior.
In her first sit-down interview about the arrest, the Oscar-winning actress and mother of three said she had "one too many" glasses of wine, and panicked after she and her husband were pulled over.
"I have no idea what I was saying that night," she said. "I literally panicked. I said all kinds of crazy things. I told them I was pregnant. I'm not pregnant."
The police report states Witherspoon asked the trooper, "Do you know my name?" and added, "You're about to find out who I am."
The dash-cam video shows the situation quickly escalating. In one video clip, the trooper appears to be examining Toth when Witherspoon, out of view, starts to get out of her vehicle.
"Ma'am, get back in that car," the trooper tells her.She apologizes, and asks if she can say something. "No ma'am," he says, "get back in that car. I'm not going to repeat myself again."
Later, when Witherspoon continues to try to intervene, the trooper handcuffs her."You better not arrest me! Are you kidding me?" she asks."Nope," he responds.
She protests again, "I'm an American citizen!" The trooper leans toward her and says he told her to stay in the car.She repeats "This is beyond!" She turns to yell at the trooper as he's handcuffing her and he raises his chin and warns her against resisting arrest.
As Witherspoon is taken out of view, she can be heard asking, "Do you know my name sir?" When he says he doesn't need to, she asks, "You don't need to know my name?" He says "Not quite yet," and she adds, "Oh really. OK, you're about to find out who I am."
The trooper responds, "That's fine. I'm not real worried about you, ma'am. I done told you how things worked. You want to get out and get up in my investigation, that's OK."As the trooper returns to Toth, he tells him, "I tried"
Toth says "I'm sorry," and the trooper adds, "I absolutely 100 percent tried."
Toth then tries to put some distance between him and his wife's outburst."I had nothing to do with that," Toth tells the trooper."I know," he responds.Toth was charged with drunken driving and is due in court May 23. Witherspoon faces a May 22 court hearing on the disorderly conduct charge.
Shortly after her jail release, the star of hit movies such as "Walk The Line," "Legally Blonde," "Sweet Home Alabama" and "Election" issued a statement saying there was "no excuse" for her behavior.
"I was disrespectful to the officer who was just doing his job. The words I used that night definitely do not reflect who I am. I have nothing but respect for the police and I am very sorry for my behavior."
Two lawyers for Witherspoon, one in Los Angeles and one in Atlanta, did not immediately return calls from The Associated Press seeking comment Thursday.
"There are so many lessons learned," she told ABC on Thursday."When a police officer tells you to stay in the car, you stay in the car," she said. "I learned that for sure. I learned a lot."
Teri hatcher daughter emerson
Teri hatcher daughter emerson, She might only be a teenager but Teri Hatcher's daughter Emerson clearly has dreams of breaking into the modelling world.
The statuesque 14-year-old made sure she was the centre of attention yesterday as she stepped out with her famous mother during the pair's Croatian break.
Emerson wore a short black playsuit as she soaked up the sunshine with her former Desperate Housewives actress mum.
Meanwhile, Teri, 47, wore a pair of less than flattering orange knee-length shorts, paired with a striped jumper and sunglasses.
The pair were enjoying a day out together, and were spotted returning to the ship they had been cruising around on after taking a day trip to the waterfalls of Krka.
Teri and Emerson, whose father is the actress' ex-husband Jon Tenney, have always had a close relationship, with the star previously talking about the skills it takes to be a mother.
She wrote on her blog previously: 'Mothers seem to be inherently capable of more than you might expect. They can carry a baby, a stroller, a back pack full of diapers, snacks, toys, bottles and extra clothes, up and down the subway stairs, in and out of a car trunk, all while wearing a business suit with heels as they rush to daycare before the workday starts.
'Mothers make salt dough for the science project and soft dough for pizza night dinner, vacuum, do the laundry, while hosting a sleep over and still keep on ticking.
'They can talk about feelings, they can swallow their feelings, they can laugh, cry, give love, and hugs, fix up bruised knees and bruise anyone who hurts their family. They keep pushing themselves until it all gets done.'
Teri and Emerson's trip to Croatia comes following the emotional finale of Desperate Housewives.
The actress has since been seen filming scenes for her new movie I Brake for Gringos, in Mexico City.
According to the film's Facebook page, it's a coming of age comedy, centering on two young high school students caught up in crazy adventures when they travel to Puerto Vallarta for the most memorable Spring Break of their lives.
The statuesque 14-year-old made sure she was the centre of attention yesterday as she stepped out with her famous mother during the pair's Croatian break.
Emerson wore a short black playsuit as she soaked up the sunshine with her former Desperate Housewives actress mum.
Meanwhile, Teri, 47, wore a pair of less than flattering orange knee-length shorts, paired with a striped jumper and sunglasses.
The pair were enjoying a day out together, and were spotted returning to the ship they had been cruising around on after taking a day trip to the waterfalls of Krka.
Teri and Emerson, whose father is the actress' ex-husband Jon Tenney, have always had a close relationship, with the star previously talking about the skills it takes to be a mother.
She wrote on her blog previously: 'Mothers seem to be inherently capable of more than you might expect. They can carry a baby, a stroller, a back pack full of diapers, snacks, toys, bottles and extra clothes, up and down the subway stairs, in and out of a car trunk, all while wearing a business suit with heels as they rush to daycare before the workday starts.
'Mothers make salt dough for the science project and soft dough for pizza night dinner, vacuum, do the laundry, while hosting a sleep over and still keep on ticking.
'They can talk about feelings, they can swallow their feelings, they can laugh, cry, give love, and hugs, fix up bruised knees and bruise anyone who hurts their family. They keep pushing themselves until it all gets done.'
Teri and Emerson's trip to Croatia comes following the emotional finale of Desperate Housewives.
The actress has since been seen filming scenes for her new movie I Brake for Gringos, in Mexico City.
According to the film's Facebook page, it's a coming of age comedy, centering on two young high school students caught up in crazy adventures when they travel to Puerto Vallarta for the most memorable Spring Break of their lives.
Pascagoula: A happening place on the Gulf Coast
Pascagoula: A happening place on the Gulf Coast, The Gulf Coast Examiner welcomes you to the coast and looks to see you visit some of the exciting attractions along the Gulf of Mexico.
A brief note from the City of Pacagoula invites you to check out Mississippi's Flagship City, some of its activities and to visit the Parks and Recreation Department online.
A "Topping Ceremony" has been planned to celebrate the placement of the lantern gallery atop the Round Island Lighthouse in Pascagoula. The ceremony will be held on May 13th at 10:00 am. on site at the lighthouse. For more information please contact Jen Dearman at (228) 938-6639 or visit City of Pascagoula.com/community-development.
The City of Pascagoula Parks and Recreation is offering Hershey's Track and Field Youth Program this Saturday, May 4th, at War Memorial Stadium in Pascagoula. This free event is open to boys and girls ages 9-14 years.
Blues at the Beach
Join us the 2nd Friday of each month for a live concert at Beach Park at 6:00 pm. This month will feature Scott Albert Johnson. Bring your kids and your lawn chairs and enjoy an evening by the beach!
Live Oak Arts Festival
On May 11, 2013, Pascagoula will come alive with art, entertain-ment, food, fun and community fellowship, during the 4th Annual Live Oak Arts Festival. On the day of the festival, you will find many specialty vendors, local downtown shopping, how-to clinics, classic cars, local food favorites and more.
Line Dancing Class
The Parks and Recreation Department is now offering a line dancing class starting Tuesday, May 14th. Taught by Tabbitha Mosley and Teressa Brumfield, the class will feature dances such as Biker's Slide, Electric Slide, Cupid Shuffle, Jamaica Funk, and more.
Summer Camps
Colors of Fun Summer Camp -- June 3rd - August 6th; Ages 6-12; Only $80 per week (additional fees apply for non-residents)! Cost includes: arts 'n crafts, games, field trip admission, and special events. There is a $5 nonrefundable registration fee for all campers.
Baseball Camp -- May 29th - June 1st from 9:00 am. - 1:00 pm. Ages 6-15. 2012 State Championship Coach Richie TIllman and staff will instruct 4 fun filled days of learning the game of baseball.
Soccer Camp -- June 1st - 3rd; Ages 5-13; Cost of $70 for residents (additional fees apply for non-residents). Campers will be grouped according to age, skill level, and requests.
Bike Events
In celebration of National Bike Month, the City of Pascagoula is offering the following events:
May 8th -- National Bike to School Day - Join children and adults around the nation to celebrate the benefits of bicycling and walking. Participants are strongly encouraged to wear proper safety gear! For more information: www.walkbiketoschool.org or kducote@cityofpascagoula.com.
May 11th -- 2nd Annual Flagship Ride -- Starts at Pascagoula Riverfront, 3104 Front Street. Registration is at 9:00am and the ride begins at 10:00am.
May 25th -- Pascagoula Bike Rodeo -- 10:00am -2:00pm at the Pascagoula Riverfront, 3104 Front Street. This event is for ages Pre-K to 15.
Kid's Lock-In
Parks and Recreation is offering an "End of School Lock-In" on May 24th for kids ages 6-12 at the Pascagoula Recreation Center.
Contact: info@cityofpascagoula.com - 603 Watts Avenue, Pascagoula, MS - (228) 372-6888 or visit the Pascagoula City Parks and Recreation Department.
A brief note from the City of Pacagoula invites you to check out Mississippi's Flagship City, some of its activities and to visit the Parks and Recreation Department online.
A "Topping Ceremony" has been planned to celebrate the placement of the lantern gallery atop the Round Island Lighthouse in Pascagoula. The ceremony will be held on May 13th at 10:00 am. on site at the lighthouse. For more information please contact Jen Dearman at (228) 938-6639 or visit City of Pascagoula.com/community-development.
The City of Pascagoula Parks and Recreation is offering Hershey's Track and Field Youth Program this Saturday, May 4th, at War Memorial Stadium in Pascagoula. This free event is open to boys and girls ages 9-14 years.
Blues at the Beach
Join us the 2nd Friday of each month for a live concert at Beach Park at 6:00 pm. This month will feature Scott Albert Johnson. Bring your kids and your lawn chairs and enjoy an evening by the beach!
Live Oak Arts Festival
On May 11, 2013, Pascagoula will come alive with art, entertain-ment, food, fun and community fellowship, during the 4th Annual Live Oak Arts Festival. On the day of the festival, you will find many specialty vendors, local downtown shopping, how-to clinics, classic cars, local food favorites and more.
Line Dancing Class
The Parks and Recreation Department is now offering a line dancing class starting Tuesday, May 14th. Taught by Tabbitha Mosley and Teressa Brumfield, the class will feature dances such as Biker's Slide, Electric Slide, Cupid Shuffle, Jamaica Funk, and more.
Summer Camps
Colors of Fun Summer Camp -- June 3rd - August 6th; Ages 6-12; Only $80 per week (additional fees apply for non-residents)! Cost includes: arts 'n crafts, games, field trip admission, and special events. There is a $5 nonrefundable registration fee for all campers.
Baseball Camp -- May 29th - June 1st from 9:00 am. - 1:00 pm. Ages 6-15. 2012 State Championship Coach Richie TIllman and staff will instruct 4 fun filled days of learning the game of baseball.
Soccer Camp -- June 1st - 3rd; Ages 5-13; Cost of $70 for residents (additional fees apply for non-residents). Campers will be grouped according to age, skill level, and requests.
Bike Events
In celebration of National Bike Month, the City of Pascagoula is offering the following events:
May 8th -- National Bike to School Day - Join children and adults around the nation to celebrate the benefits of bicycling and walking. Participants are strongly encouraged to wear proper safety gear! For more information: www.walkbiketoschool.org or kducote@cityofpascagoula.com.
May 11th -- 2nd Annual Flagship Ride -- Starts at Pascagoula Riverfront, 3104 Front Street. Registration is at 9:00am and the ride begins at 10:00am.
May 25th -- Pascagoula Bike Rodeo -- 10:00am -2:00pm at the Pascagoula Riverfront, 3104 Front Street. This event is for ages Pre-K to 15.
Kid's Lock-In
Parks and Recreation is offering an "End of School Lock-In" on May 24th for kids ages 6-12 at the Pascagoula Recreation Center.
Contact: info@cityofpascagoula.com - 603 Watts Avenue, Pascagoula, MS - (228) 372-6888 or visit the Pascagoula City Parks and Recreation Department.
Watch Jodi Arias trial live streaming online; Defense closing arguments
Watch Jodi Arias trial live streaming online; Defense closing arguments, On May 3, 2013, the defense in the Jodi Arias trial will fight for their client's life like never before. Jodi Arias faces first-degree murder charges and a possible death sentence if convicted for the June 4, 2008, slaying of her lover Travis Alexander.
Led by Kirk Nurmi and Jennifer Willmott, the legal defense team behind Arias certainly has their work cut out for them today. Yesterday, May 2, 2013, prosecutor Juan Martinez systematically ripped apart Jodi Arias' defense, brought the courtroom to tears and told the jury that Arias was nothing more than a manipulative liar who had easily looked the jurors straight in the eye and lied to them.
He also described the defense theory that Jodi Arias slit Travis Alexander's throat in self-defense as another lie. He referred to that gruesome act that nearly decapitated the up and coming business man as a direct attack.
Arias' defense team has argued that Arias is a longtime sufferer of domestic abuse and battery therefore suffered from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and killed Travis Alexander after he lunged at her, causing her to fear for her life.
Arias changed her story of events three times and admitted on the stand that she continually lied to protect herself.
She also spoke to a media outlet and stated, "No jury will convict me -- I'm innocent."
The jury is expected to get the case today and deliberations will begin following closing arguments.
Will Jodi Arias' words come back to haunt her? Will she be convicted of first-degree murder or one of the lesser charges of second-degree or manslaughter?
Led by Kirk Nurmi and Jennifer Willmott, the legal defense team behind Arias certainly has their work cut out for them today. Yesterday, May 2, 2013, prosecutor Juan Martinez systematically ripped apart Jodi Arias' defense, brought the courtroom to tears and told the jury that Arias was nothing more than a manipulative liar who had easily looked the jurors straight in the eye and lied to them.
He also described the defense theory that Jodi Arias slit Travis Alexander's throat in self-defense as another lie. He referred to that gruesome act that nearly decapitated the up and coming business man as a direct attack.
Arias' defense team has argued that Arias is a longtime sufferer of domestic abuse and battery therefore suffered from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and killed Travis Alexander after he lunged at her, causing her to fear for her life.
Arias changed her story of events three times and admitted on the stand that she continually lied to protect herself.
She also spoke to a media outlet and stated, "No jury will convict me -- I'm innocent."
The jury is expected to get the case today and deliberations will begin following closing arguments.
Will Jodi Arias' words come back to haunt her? Will she be convicted of first-degree murder or one of the lesser charges of second-degree or manslaughter?
Cop fired 8 times: Fla. cop fired over and over now up for his 9th firing
Cop fired 8 times: Fla. cop fired over and over now up for his 9th firing, How many times must an employee be fired before the employer get a clue? Eight, if you’re a police officer that is. Nine strikes and this cop might be out.
Sgt. German Bosque, who has been fired eight times from three different police departments, has been charged with leaving his assault weapon with his girlfriend’s father, a trained security guard, while on an eight-day leave.
According to a May 3 Reason.com report, that’s a little too many run-ins with the law, for a lawman that is.
The Opa-locka Police Department from Opa-Locka, Fla. has now presented its case to an arbitration officer to dismiss Bosque (again).
City Attorney Joe Geller said, "We’re here on a very simple matter. It’s going to be up to the arbitrator. We think what the officer did was wrong.”
Geller is arguing that Bosque violated the department’s policy that an officer’s weapon should be secured at all times.
But like the Terminator, Bosque has a history of coming back: He's the most fired, fined and disciplined officer in the state.
The Miami cop has managed to return to his post despite his alleged vices. The Miami Herald reports Bosque has beaten back a long list of head-turning charges, including:
Busting the skull of a handcuffed suspect
Beating juveniles
Having dope and booze in his squad car
Ripping off suspects
Falsifying reports
Participating in an unauthorized chase where four people were killed
Calling in sick … from Cancun
“It’s allegations. Allegations are not convictions,” said Bosque’s union-provided attorney, Andrew Axelrad. “We have a system in place, and that system is a fair system.”
To hear Bosque tell it, he just loves his job:
“I love serving the community. I love what I do for a living, and I’m very proud,” he said.
Sgt. German Bosque, who has been fired eight times from three different police departments, has been charged with leaving his assault weapon with his girlfriend’s father, a trained security guard, while on an eight-day leave.
According to a May 3 Reason.com report, that’s a little too many run-ins with the law, for a lawman that is.
The Opa-locka Police Department from Opa-Locka, Fla. has now presented its case to an arbitration officer to dismiss Bosque (again).
City Attorney Joe Geller said, "We’re here on a very simple matter. It’s going to be up to the arbitrator. We think what the officer did was wrong.”
Geller is arguing that Bosque violated the department’s policy that an officer’s weapon should be secured at all times.
But like the Terminator, Bosque has a history of coming back: He's the most fired, fined and disciplined officer in the state.
The Miami cop has managed to return to his post despite his alleged vices. The Miami Herald reports Bosque has beaten back a long list of head-turning charges, including:
Busting the skull of a handcuffed suspect
Beating juveniles
Having dope and booze in his squad car
Ripping off suspects
Falsifying reports
Participating in an unauthorized chase where four people were killed
Calling in sick … from Cancun
“It’s allegations. Allegations are not convictions,” said Bosque’s union-provided attorney, Andrew Axelrad. “We have a system in place, and that system is a fair system.”
To hear Bosque tell it, he just loves his job:
“I love serving the community. I love what I do for a living, and I’m very proud,” he said.
Ted Bundy homework assignment leaves substitute without a job
Ted Bundy homework assignment leaves substitute without a job, Given in an Oklahoma geometry class has parents outraged. According to KMOV on May 2, a substitute teacher gave the assignment, but now the teacher will be looking for work elsewhere.
The assignment at Nathan Hale High School had one word problem challenging students to figure out high serial killer Ted Bundy's ladder would reach given one set of parameters. Another word problem made up a guy named “Creepy John” who was watching neighbors with a telescope. Students were supposed to determine how far apart the two buildings were given the angles in the problem.
It seems the teacher was trying to capture the attention of the students by being creative, but parents found it creepy and inappropriate. It seems the principal at Nathan Hale High School in Tulsa, Okla. agrees. Reports indicate the principal has made the decision to not have the substitute return to the school.
While many of the 10th graders may not have known much about the infamous serial killer, most would agree that the Ted Bundy homework assignment was not appropriate for the young teens. The substitute certainly got creative and caught people's attention, but it seems the plan backfired on him.
The assignment at Nathan Hale High School had one word problem challenging students to figure out high serial killer Ted Bundy's ladder would reach given one set of parameters. Another word problem made up a guy named “Creepy John” who was watching neighbors with a telescope. Students were supposed to determine how far apart the two buildings were given the angles in the problem.
It seems the teacher was trying to capture the attention of the students by being creative, but parents found it creepy and inappropriate. It seems the principal at Nathan Hale High School in Tulsa, Okla. agrees. Reports indicate the principal has made the decision to not have the substitute return to the school.
While many of the 10th graders may not have known much about the infamous serial killer, most would agree that the Ted Bundy homework assignment was not appropriate for the young teens. The substitute certainly got creative and caught people's attention, but it seems the plan backfired on him.
'Storage Wars' drops 3: Cast fired over lawsuit that 'Storage Wars' is fake?
'Storage Wars' drops 3: Cast fired over lawsuit that 'Storage Wars' is fake?, The A&E show "Storage Wars" has dropped three cast members in the wake of a lawsuit filed by former cast member Dave Hester. The lawsuit alleges a host of improprieties, all stemming because one of the cast members claimed some aspects of the popular A&E show are falsified.
The May 2 report from TV Guide was originally carried by Radar Online.
The American reality television series, which premiered in 2010, features auctioneers and buyers who purchase storage lockers that have been left unpaid. The show follows the buyers who, after a brief inspection of the contents, are left to bid on what they hope turn out to be valuable contents.
Auctioneers Dan and Laura Dotson were cut out of the most recent season, which just finished filming, and cast member Darrell Sheets, known as "The Gambler," was also "frozen out" of about six extra episodes.
"They make good money and they need the money," a source told Radar. "Suddenly the show just told them, 'We don’t need you for this episode.' And then it happened again. So they've been battling to stay on the air, and they are worried about their futures. The show is a gold mine."
The source said that Storage Wars is looking for "cheaper talent" to replace Sheets and the Dotsons.
However, A&E has denied the report that the two were let go. "Not every cast member appears in every episode of the series, but there is no truth to the report that any other members have been dropped," a network rep told TVGuide.com.
Hester is seeking more than $750,000 in damages for wrongful termination, breach of contract, breach of good faith and fair dealing, unfair business practices, and declaratory relief.
Hester contends that "Storage Wars" producers regularly planted valuable items in the lockers, or sometimes even staged entire units. When he complained about the unethical practice to producers, he says he was fired.
The May 2 report from TV Guide was originally carried by Radar Online.
The American reality television series, which premiered in 2010, features auctioneers and buyers who purchase storage lockers that have been left unpaid. The show follows the buyers who, after a brief inspection of the contents, are left to bid on what they hope turn out to be valuable contents.
Auctioneers Dan and Laura Dotson were cut out of the most recent season, which just finished filming, and cast member Darrell Sheets, known as "The Gambler," was also "frozen out" of about six extra episodes.
"They make good money and they need the money," a source told Radar. "Suddenly the show just told them, 'We don’t need you for this episode.' And then it happened again. So they've been battling to stay on the air, and they are worried about their futures. The show is a gold mine."
The source said that Storage Wars is looking for "cheaper talent" to replace Sheets and the Dotsons.
However, A&E has denied the report that the two were let go. "Not every cast member appears in every episode of the series, but there is no truth to the report that any other members have been dropped," a network rep told TVGuide.com.
Hester is seeking more than $750,000 in damages for wrongful termination, breach of contract, breach of good faith and fair dealing, unfair business practices, and declaratory relief.
Hester contends that "Storage Wars" producers regularly planted valuable items in the lockers, or sometimes even staged entire units. When he complained about the unethical practice to producers, he says he was fired.
'Storage Wars' drops 3 cast mates: Cheaper contract talent sought?
'Storage Wars' drops 3 cast mates: Cheaper contract talent sought?, Episodes of "Storage Wars" have cut three popular A&E reality TV show personalities. In the wake of Dave Hester's lawsuit, another storage war over contract renewals is brewing. Reportedly, "Storage Wars" cast members; Darrell Sheets is frozen from future full episodes. Rumor is Dan and Laura Dotson won't see many auction lockers in the future.
On May 1, RadarOnline wrote that after Hester was nixed and filed a lawsuit that accused the show and network of rigging elements during taping of episodes, all hell broke loose.
A super-secret insider said this about the dropping of three main cast members of "Storage Wars":
"They lived up to Darrell's contract, but then shot more episodes that weren't covered by his contract and kept him out of those. He was not happy to say the least.
"It seems as if they are going after some of the higher paid cast members,” the source said. “And meanwhile they are expanding the franchise."
Sheets, aka "The Gambler," is said to be collateral damage from the show's mission to cut cost and find cheaper talent.
As far as the Dotsons are concerned, reportedly, they were cut from future episodes in the same manner and without much future notice.
"They make good money and they need the money. Suddenly the show just told them, 'We don’t need you for this episode,'" another source said of the "Storage Wars" shakeup.
While Sheets was cut from future episodes, sources confirmed he is not following in the footsteps of Hester as some believe. Insiders say he truly wants to stay on the show, it's frustrating to work under in an environment of uncertainty.
With mere months away before another "Storage Wars" season, contract renewals are on the table, but rumor is the show is trying to cast cheaper talent. Apparently, the show is so big, a change in players will not likely jeopardize ratings.
So, "Storage Wars" cut three more cast members. Will you still watch the show? What will it do for ratings?
On May 1, RadarOnline wrote that after Hester was nixed and filed a lawsuit that accused the show and network of rigging elements during taping of episodes, all hell broke loose.
A super-secret insider said this about the dropping of three main cast members of "Storage Wars":
"They lived up to Darrell's contract, but then shot more episodes that weren't covered by his contract and kept him out of those. He was not happy to say the least.
"It seems as if they are going after some of the higher paid cast members,” the source said. “And meanwhile they are expanding the franchise."
Sheets, aka "The Gambler," is said to be collateral damage from the show's mission to cut cost and find cheaper talent.
As far as the Dotsons are concerned, reportedly, they were cut from future episodes in the same manner and without much future notice.
"They make good money and they need the money. Suddenly the show just told them, 'We don’t need you for this episode,'" another source said of the "Storage Wars" shakeup.
While Sheets was cut from future episodes, sources confirmed he is not following in the footsteps of Hester as some believe. Insiders say he truly wants to stay on the show, it's frustrating to work under in an environment of uncertainty.
With mere months away before another "Storage Wars" season, contract renewals are on the table, but rumor is the show is trying to cast cheaper talent. Apparently, the show is so big, a change in players will not likely jeopardize ratings.
So, "Storage Wars" cut three more cast members. Will you still watch the show? What will it do for ratings?
'Storage Wars' drops 3 main cast from episodes: Will this backfire for the show?
'Storage Wars' drops 3 main cast from episodes: Will this backfire for the show?, “Storage Wars” has cut-back the on the screen time for three of its main players of their cast in the wake of the Dave Hester lawsuit against the A&E network and the production company for the show. This started with Hester being “frozen out” of the show, which prompted him to file a lawsuit and also made accusations that the show planted items in the storage units and much of the great finds were fakes, according to Radaronline on May 1, 2013.
It is Darrell Sheets and Dan and Laura Dotson that you'll be seeing less of next season. This is the same thing the show did to Hester, which started the ball rolling for his lawsuit. Sheets will be “frozen out” of about six extra episodes of “Storage Wars.” The husband and wife team of auctioneers will also be cut back in the season that just wrapped up shooting.
The reason for the cutback in facetime on air for Sheets and the Dotson's is money, according to a source. The show is cutting back on some of the higher paid cast members. Needless to say Darrell, Dan and Laura are not happy. The same goes for Hester, who was the first to feel these cuts.
Hester said that “all cast members” are aware of the show being faked” and it was discussed out in the open among the cast members. That was before they gave Hester the boot. This could be a dangerous cost-cutting venture for the show because it is the characters that people tune into watch.
Everyone loved to hate Dave Hester and Darrell is another cast member that spun a good bidding strategy only to have it blow up in his face frequently. Then there's the happy auctioneers, that's a couple that people have come to really enjoy watching. They're like a couple of love-lorn teens. These are the folks that make the show along with a few others on the "Storage Wars.
It is Darrell Sheets and Dan and Laura Dotson that you'll be seeing less of next season. This is the same thing the show did to Hester, which started the ball rolling for his lawsuit. Sheets will be “frozen out” of about six extra episodes of “Storage Wars.” The husband and wife team of auctioneers will also be cut back in the season that just wrapped up shooting.
The reason for the cutback in facetime on air for Sheets and the Dotson's is money, according to a source. The show is cutting back on some of the higher paid cast members. Needless to say Darrell, Dan and Laura are not happy. The same goes for Hester, who was the first to feel these cuts.
Hester said that “all cast members” are aware of the show being faked” and it was discussed out in the open among the cast members. That was before they gave Hester the boot. This could be a dangerous cost-cutting venture for the show because it is the characters that people tune into watch.
Everyone loved to hate Dave Hester and Darrell is another cast member that spun a good bidding strategy only to have it blow up in his face frequently. Then there's the happy auctioneers, that's a couple that people have come to really enjoy watching. They're like a couple of love-lorn teens. These are the folks that make the show along with a few others on the "Storage Wars.
Halle berry pregnancy 2013
Halle berry pregnancy 2013, The 46-year-old actress is expecting a baby with her fiancé Olivier Martinez and she admits the news initially came as a total "shock" to her as she had no inkling she was with child.
She said: "I was at the doctor's when they told me and I was completely shocked ... I didn't see it coming. I went to the doctor because I thought I had kidney stones or something. So it was a massive surprise."
Halle's five-year-old daughter Nahla - her child with ex-boyfriend Gabriel Aubry - is as excited as her mother and Olivier about the baby, and the Oscar winner is thankful to God for the "amazing gift" of a second child.
She added to the new UK issue of HELLO! magazine: "[Nahla's] really happy. Not long ago she asked God for a little sister, but I tried not to get her hopes up. At 46, I didn't know if I'd be able to get pregnant again.
"Olivier and I have always wanted to be parents. But I didn't want to get my hopes up ... God made the dream come true. This pregnancy is like a miracle for me, an amazing gift, because this child was as wished for as it was expected.
"It's like a renewal of life ... Good things happen too."
Despite two divorces and a bitter split from Nahla's father Gabriel - with whom she still has a difficult relationship - Halle can't wait to tie the knot again with Olivier and she won't let her past romantic woes affect her future.
When asked whether she still believes in life-long love, she insisted: "Absolutely. I'm an incurable romantic - that's the only reason I'm marrying again. Just because things haven't gone well in my past doesn't mean that I've given up."
She said: "I was at the doctor's when they told me and I was completely shocked ... I didn't see it coming. I went to the doctor because I thought I had kidney stones or something. So it was a massive surprise."
Halle's five-year-old daughter Nahla - her child with ex-boyfriend Gabriel Aubry - is as excited as her mother and Olivier about the baby, and the Oscar winner is thankful to God for the "amazing gift" of a second child.
She added to the new UK issue of HELLO! magazine: "[Nahla's] really happy. Not long ago she asked God for a little sister, but I tried not to get her hopes up. At 46, I didn't know if I'd be able to get pregnant again.
"Olivier and I have always wanted to be parents. But I didn't want to get my hopes up ... God made the dream come true. This pregnancy is like a miracle for me, an amazing gift, because this child was as wished for as it was expected.
"It's like a renewal of life ... Good things happen too."
Despite two divorces and a bitter split from Nahla's father Gabriel - with whom she still has a difficult relationship - Halle can't wait to tie the knot again with Olivier and she won't let her past romantic woes affect her future.
When asked whether she still believes in life-long love, she insisted: "Absolutely. I'm an incurable romantic - that's the only reason I'm marrying again. Just because things haven't gone well in my past doesn't mean that I've given up."
Celebrity wardrobe malfunctions
Celebrity wardrobe malfunctions, Whether you are an average joe going it alone when it comes to beautification, or a celeb with meteoric star power and team of people to make you look glamorous, one can never be truly impervious to fashion disasters. We are all subject to the oversight of leaving a tag that should be removed. Rips, splits, tears and slips are subject to ruin our mojo even if we look smashing otherwise.
And let's not even think about the havoc wind and the other elements can wreak on a great look--thanks, but no thanks on your offer to turn up Captain Planet and company.
There's nothing better than shared experience to lessen the pain of our own fashion flubs. Sometimes, even the best outfits go wrong. From broken zippers to unintentional flashes, see the best (and worst) celebrity wardrobe malfunctions caught on film.
And let's not even think about the havoc wind and the other elements can wreak on a great look--thanks, but no thanks on your offer to turn up Captain Planet and company.
There's nothing better than shared experience to lessen the pain of our own fashion flubs. Sometimes, even the best outfits go wrong. From broken zippers to unintentional flashes, see the best (and worst) celebrity wardrobe malfunctions caught on film.
Space Shuttle replica to be displayed atop 747 at Space Center Houston
Space Shuttle replica to be displayed atop 747 at Space Center Houston, Even though Texas was denied an actual space shuttle, which angered Texas congressmen, Space Center Houston, located near the Johnson Spaceflight Center, will display a shuttle replica on top of one of the 747s that served as a carrier aircraft for the spaceship, according to a May 3, 2013 story in Space.com.
The plan is that by 2015 a shuttle replica that Space Center Houston has on display will be mounted on top of the carrier aircraft. The interior of the space shuttle replica will be refurbished to make it resemble an actual space shuttle during the later part of its career, with a modern, digital “glass cockpit.” A gantry will be build next to the structure that will allow visitors to venture into the interiors of both vehicles and thus gain a little hint of space history.
The carrier aircraft will be in position by November, 2014. The space shuttle replica will be raised and placed in position on top of the 747 as it would have been when it was being carried from a landing field, most often the dry lake bed at Edwards Air Force Base in California, to the Kennedy Space Center for eventual relaunch. That process should be completed by the first quarter of 2014. Then both vehicles will be refurbished and the access gantry built for an opening to the public on February, 2015.
The plan is that by 2015 a shuttle replica that Space Center Houston has on display will be mounted on top of the carrier aircraft. The interior of the space shuttle replica will be refurbished to make it resemble an actual space shuttle during the later part of its career, with a modern, digital “glass cockpit.” A gantry will be build next to the structure that will allow visitors to venture into the interiors of both vehicles and thus gain a little hint of space history.
The carrier aircraft will be in position by November, 2014. The space shuttle replica will be raised and placed in position on top of the 747 as it would have been when it was being carried from a landing field, most often the dry lake bed at Edwards Air Force Base in California, to the Kennedy Space Center for eventual relaunch. That process should be completed by the first quarter of 2014. Then both vehicles will be refurbished and the access gantry built for an opening to the public on February, 2015.