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KFLAG COUNTRY MUSIC UPDATE

Lady Antebellum may be getting airplay on pop radio these days, but their loyalty is to country radio. Trio member Charles Kelley tells us that he wants to clear up any doubt. "First and foremost, we're country artists. The song just started gettin' played randomly, and so our label obviously saw some opportunity there and has pursued it, and it's been exciting for us basically to reach more fans, but we're not goin' anywhere."

Lady A's recent country chart-topper, "Need You Now," has made the leap to Top 40 radio, but Charles thinks this song is an exception and not the rule when it comes to their music. "It just happens to be, I think, the sound of this record -- you know, that specific song, I think, kind of crosses genres, but I think a song like 'American Honey' probably won't have that kind of flavor to do that, but it's been cool to see. It's obviously been great for our career, but we're not goin' anywhere."

• Lady Antebellum's latest single, "American Honey," is a Top 15 hit and climbing on the country charts.
• They sold 144,000 copies of their new Need You Now CD this week, making the album platinum in just four weeks time.
• Need You Now is the first album in 2010 to reach one million in sales.
• The trio is currently on the road with Tim McGraw's Southern Voice tour.

Keith Urban is headed for the top of the charts again with his latest hit, "Til Summer Comes Around." Keith tells us the song was built around an image he had of an empty amusement park in the dead of winter. "I had the idea of, I guess, the abandoned theme park as a metaphor for being without love. I liked the imagery of that. I think theme parks, I've always found them really fascinating in the winter time when they're shut down and abandoned cause they're so juxtaposed to what they are supposed to be doing, and so I liked the imagery of that."

Keith wrote the song with frequent collaborator Monty Powell. "I started playing around with the drum machine and the guitar and (the) melody and a few things started coming. That title, 'Til Summer Comes Around,' started coming out and that's when I suggested this story to Monty, and Monty's great at crafting a story if you can give him an idea, and the song flowed fairly quickly."

• Keith and Monty recently paired up in Los Angeles to write for Keith's next album.
• The singer recently confirmed his appearance at this year's CMA Music Festival in Nashville in June.
• Keith and his wife, Nicole Kidman, were spotted earlier this week in Vancouver taking in some of the Olympic action as well as touring the city's aquarium.

FAST FACTS

• Keith's latest album, Defying Gravity, was released last year.
• So far, the CD has produced two Number One hits -- "Sweet Thing" and "Only You Can Love Me This Way."
• Keith co-wrote "Sweet Thing" with Monty Powell.

Starting today (Friday, February 26th), you can begin voting for your favorite country newcomers for the upcoming 45th Academy of Country Music Awards. Fans will have the chance to cast their votes in three categories: Top New Solo Vocalist, Top New Vocal Duo and Top New Vocal Group. Voting ends March 12th at 5 p.m. ET.

One winner in each of the three categories will be announced next month and will move on to compete for Top New Artist. Voting for the Top New Artist category will begin April 1st and close April 18th. The winner will be announced at the ACM Awards live from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas on April 18th.

• GAC's ACM Top New Artist special -- featuring all three finalists -- will premiere on the network April 1st at 10:00 p.m. ET.

The final nominees in the Top New categories are:

Top New Solo Vocalist:
Luke Bryan
Jamey Johnson
Chris Young

Top New Vocal Duo:
Bomshel
Joey + Rory
Steel Magnolia

Top New Vocal Group:
Eli Young Band
Gloriana
The Lost Trailers

CHECK IT OUT: Vote for your favorites here: www.VoteACM.com

Brooks & Dunn plan to go out with bang. The duo will mark its final concert with a special benefit show for the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. The gig, set to take place at Nashville's Bridgestone Arena on August 10th, will feature special guests expected to be announced soon. Brooks & Dunn announced their retirement last summer, so this will mark their final gig together.

Brooks & Dunn said, "For several years, we have tossed around ideas for the best way to make a contribution to the Museum. We have a tremendous appreciation for the road that was traveled by the great stars that came before us. Their long nights in station wagons with instruments strapped on the roofs built an industry that allowed us to cruise around in big tour buses. Our last show together will certainly be a historic point in our lives and careers, and we feel it's only right that the proceeds from this concert go to a place where all history in our business is so reverently preserved."

• The Nashville show will cost $25 (plus convenience fee). Tickets for most tour dates, including the Nashville concert, go on sale March 6th.
• Brooks & Dunn will play with alternating artists -- Jason Aldean and Gary Allan, while Tyler Dickerson will be opening throughout the tour.
• The Last Rodeo tour kicks off March 20th in Houston.

Luke Bryan and his wife, Caroline, are adding to their brood. The couple are expecting their second child together in August. Bryan tells People.com, "We're excited to have another little member of the family coming in."

The 33-year-old singer says he's a little bit more relaxed this time around, adding, "When you successfully brought one in the world, you are a little more confident in your ability to do it the second time. We're a little more relaxed -- you know everything that can come at you."

There will be no surprises when it comes to the baby's gender. Bryan says, "I'd lose too much sleep wondering otherwise!"

• Bryan and his 30-year-old wife already have a son, named Bo, who turns 2-years-old next month.
• Bryan recently snagged his first Number One country hit with "Do I."
• He's nominated for Top New Solo Vocalist at the upcoming Academy of Country Music Awards on April 18th.

LeAnn Rimes and Eddie Cibrian aren't keeping their relationship on the down-low anymore. E! Online reports that the pair was spotted getting cozy and being extremely affectionate at a recent celebrity poker tournament in Los Angeles.

They first were spotted making out a bar in front of a long line of people waiting for drinks. Later on, Rimes and Cibrian were pretty much attached at the hip during the tournament with lots of public displays of affection. Rimes rubbed Cibrian's back, played with his hair and gave him kisses.

• Other celebs at the poker event included Eric Dane, Rebecca Gayheart, Teri Hatcher, Jenny McCarthy, Jerry Ferrara, Balthazar Getty, Jayde Nicole and Shannon Elizabeth.
• The event raised $100,000 to help the homeless.
• Rimes and her ex, Dean Sheremet, got divorced last year.

CHECK IT OUT: See the video of Rimes and Cibrian: http://tinyurl.com/yeh88zb

Carrie Underwood has a lot of love going around these days. In an interview with People magazine, the singer expresses how her fiance, hockey player Mike Fisher, has not only strengthened her Christian faith , but has made her want to be a better person.

She says, "Mike has improved my walk with God. It's important to me, because down the road, I want someone who will help shape our kids into people who make the world a better place." She adds, "Four months of dating is my 'this guy is starting to bug me' moment. That never happened. We just eased into, 'I could do this forever.' Our spiritual bond is something we try to put first in our lives."

Underwood also expressed her love for animals this week during a dog adoption event in Franklin, Tennessee. Underwood, who has a 4-year-old rescue dog named Ace, joined the sixth annual Pedigree Adoption Drive, which helps feed dogs in shelters. Looks like Underwood will open up an animal shelter in her hometown of Checotah, Oklahoma. Pedigree presented her with a $50,000 check to help build one.

• Underwood and Fisher got engaged in December.
• She'll appear on CBS' How I Met Your Mother this coming Monday (March 1st).

Dolly Parton will be on hand for the official grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony of her Trinkets and Treasures store in Nashville on March 12th. The shop, located in an old storefront on 2nd Ave. in historic downtown, features all things Dolly Parton, including music and videos. For the store, Parton also created items like a "Burpin' 9-5" baby bib and special limited-edition "Coat Of Many Colors" customized guitars.

Parton says, "When I was growing up in the backwoods of the Smoky Mountains, any trinket was a treasure to me. The mail order catalog was my wish book. I wished I could have everything I saw. Those childhood memories inspired my new Trinkets and Treasures store. Come on in and wish and dream, and I will make them come true."

• Dolly Parton's Trinkets & Treasures is located at 126 2nd Avenue North, Nashville. It opened in November, but the official grand opening takes place next month.

Lee Ann Womack is busy working on her new album and recently gave a hint into what fans can expect on it, telling The Boot, "I have a good girlie song called 'Talking Behind Your Back.'" She has another track, called 'You Do Until You Don't," which she says "is just about real life." Her current single, "There Is A God," is clearly spiritual. Womack explains, "It basically says, 'I dare you -- just look outside and try to tell me there's not a God,'" Lee Ann explains of her new song. "There IS a God -- I see Him everywhere. That's what the song is about."

Carrie Underwood and Luke Bryan are the first two stars lined up for the 20th anniversary Celebrity Softball Challenge, set for June 7th at Nashville's Greer Stadium. They'll step up to the plate to raise money for City of Hope, a research and treatment center for cancer, diabetes and other life-threatening diseases. For information on tickets, visit www.cityofhope.org/softball

Blake Shelton has announced his first headlining show in Nashville at the Ryman Auditorium on March 18th. Tickets go on sale March 5th. Jessica Harp will open the gig. Shelton will release a six-song album, Hillbilly Bone, on Tuesday (March 2nd).

ON THIS DATE!

TODAY'S BIRTHDAYS:

• Fats Domino (R&B and jazz singer, pianist, and composer) (82)
• Michael Bolton (singer) (57)
• Jennifer Grant (actress, daughter of Cary Grant, appeared as Celeste on Beverly Hills, 90210) (44)
• Erykah Badu (singer) (39)
• Corinne Bailey Rae (singer) (31)
• Ky-mani Marley (reggae artist and son of Bob Marley) (34)
• Jonathan Cain (keyboardist, Journey; former keyboardist, the Babys) (60)
• Paul Cotton (singer-guitarist, Poco) (67)
• Mitch Ryder (of the Detroit Wheels) (65)

1815, Napoleon Bonaparte escaped from the island of Elba to begin his second conquest of France.
1919, Congress established Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona.
1932, Johnny Cash was born.
1935, Babe Ruth was released by the New York Yankees to sign with the Boston Braves.
1936, Adolf Hitler opened the first factory for the production of the "People's Car," the Volkswagen, in Saxony, Germany.
1945, A midnight curfew on night clubs, bars, and other places of entertainment was set to go into effect across the nation. It did not.
1949, 45-rpm discs were outselling the old standard 78-rpm records.
1951, the 22nd Amendment to the Constitution was ratified, limiting a president to two terms in office.
1952, Prime Minister Winston Churchill announced that Britain had developed its own atomic bomb.
1955, Billboard magazine reported that for the first time since their introduction in
1965, Norman Butler was arrested for the murder of Malcolm X.
1983, Michael Jackson's Thriller album hit Number One on the U.S. album chart, where it stayed for 37 weeks on its way to selling more than 40 million copies worldwide.
1991, Kuwaiti resistance leaders declared themselves in control of their capital, following nearly seven months of Iraqi occupation. Iraqi President Saddam Hussein announced that he had ordered his forces to withdraw from Kuwait.
1993, six people were killed and more than 1,000 injured in the first attack on the World Trade Center, when a van packed with a 1,210-pound bomb exploded in the parking garage underneath the Twin Towers. The mastermind behind the attack, Ramzi Ahmed Yousef, was later found and convicted, along with other associates.

CELEBRITY GOSSIP

NICOLE RICHIE AND SON ENJOYING PARIS: Nicole Richie is enjoying Paris with the man in her life. No -- not fiance Joel Madden -- but their five-month-old son Sparrow. Richie tweeted a picture of the two along with the caption, "in the City of Lights with my true love." The 28-year-old is in Paris to promote her new clothing line, Winter Kate. Check out the picture: http://tinyurl.com/yd4g4hm

CASEY JOHNSON AUTOPSY RELEASED: No cocaine or alcohol was detected in Casey Johnson's body at the time of her death. Earlier this month the Los Angeles Coroner's Office released a statement confirming that Johnson died of natural causes related to diabetes. A toxicology report recently released confirmed that despite her hard-partying reputation, coke and booze were not found in her body.

SETH GREEN IS GETTING MARRIED: Seth Green is engaged. A source confirmed to People magazine that the 36-year-old plans to marry model/actress Clare Grant, however the couple is remaining quiet about details of their engagement and wedding. 30-year-old Grant, who attended the University of Memphis, appeared with Christina Ricci in Black Snake Moan and stars in the new MTV series $5 Cover.

REESE WITHERSPOON STILL DATING HOLLYWOOD AGENT: Reese Witherspoon was spotted out with Hollywood agent Jim Toth again this week on a dinner date in Los Angeles. Source tell People magazine that they are enjoying each other's company, but aren't "exclusive." An eyewitness said, "Reese looked very cute and casual in jeans with black boots. She was in the best mood ever and would not stop laughing. It was very obvious that Reese likes Jim and the two had great energy together."

CELEBS TURN OUT FOR ALEXANDER MCQUEEN'S FUNERAL: Lady Gaga and Kate Moss were among those who paid their last respects to Alexander McQueen at the designer's funeral on Thursday (February 25th). Starpulse.com reports that Gaga arrived in the most eccentric get-up, sporting a short black dress with her face fully veiled in black lace and the back of her dress tented out with a train.

MICHAEL DOUGLAS'S SON DENIED BAIL: Michael Douglas's son was denied bail during a hearing on Thursday. Cameron Douglas pleaded guilty in January to dealing large quantities of methamphetamine and cocaine -- but he asked the judge to let him bail out so he could be transferred to a rehabilitation center. The judge ruled Cameron was more likely to relapse if he was let out, and denied his request.

HOLLYWOOD NEWS

HOWARD STERN NOT JOINING 'IDOL': It looks like Howard Stern definitely will not be replacing Simon Cowell on American Idol. Sources told Deadline.com that Stern is not in contention for the spot -- but whoever does get it will be very rich. Bosses are reportedly budgeting $38 million for the job. The new judge will reportedly be announced at the end of the current season.

JOHN KRASINSKI TO PLAY CAPTAIN AMERICA? John Krasinski is in the running to play Captain American in an upcoming adaptation of the Marvel comic. The Hollywood Reporter announced that around seven actors are vying for the title role. Krasinski's competition supposedly includes Michael Cassidy (who appeared in "Smallville" and who tested for the Superman movie when McG was going to direct it), Patrick Flueger (one of the stars of "The 4400" who most recently appeared in the Tobey Maguire movie "Brothers"), Scott Porter (TV's "Friday Night Lights"), Wilson Bethel ("Generation Kill") and Mike Vogel ("Cloverfield"). Chace Crawford is also in talks to screen test, though no deal has been made.

DAILY SHOW CORRESPONDENT GETS PRIME-TIME GIG: Jason Jones is the latest Daily Show correspondent on his way to nationwide fame. The Hollywood Reporter announced that James landed the lead role in ABC's comedy pilot How to Be a Better American on which he'll play "a father who embarks on a journey to be a better person and drags his family along kicking and screaming." Former Daily Show correspondents include Steve Carell and Ed Helms of "The Office"; Rob Corddry, of Fox's "The Winner"; and most recently Rob Riggle, who stars in CBS' pilot "Team Spitz."

JAY LENO LINES UP MORE GUESTS: Jay Leno is continuing to beef up the guest list for his first two weeks back as host of the Tonight Show. In addition to previously announced stars like Jamie Foxx, Sarah Palin and Lindsey Vonn, NBC has added Adam Lambert, Robin Thicke, Ben Harper, Ryan Bingham and Lifehouse to the rooster.

'ZOOLANDER' SEQUEL IN THE WORKS: A sequel to Zoolander is reportedly in the works. Deadline.com reports that Paramount and Ben Stiller are pulling together a PG-13 Zoolander 2 with Tropic Thunder and Iron Man 2 writer Justin Theroux, who'll also direct. It's unclear if Owen Wilson will reprise his role, but sources say the villain likely will be Jonah Hill.

BRAZIL WANTS PARIS HILTON AD BANNED: Brazil's Secretariat for Women's Affairs wants to ban a sexy beer commercial starring Paris Hilton. The ad features Hilton in a short black dress preening and rubbing a can of Devassa beer on herself, "to the delight of onlookers watching through her window." TMZ.com reports that the commercial isn't very explicit however Brazil's regulations say beer commercials cannot treat women as overtly sensual objects. A spokesperson for the organization said, "It's an ad that devalues women -- in particular, blond women."

ANDREW KOENIG FOUND DEAD; FATHER SAYS HE TOOK HIS OWN LIFE

The body of missing actor Andrew Koenig was found Thursday (February 25th) in Vancouver's Stanley Park. Koenig's father Walter said during a press conference that Andrew took his own life, acknowledging, "He was obviously in a lot of pain."

Walter issued an emotional plea to anyone suspecting that a loved one is suffering from depression: "If you can learn anything from this it's that there are people out there who really care. You may not think so and ultimately it may not be enough, but there are people who really really care. And before you make that final decision, check it out again, talk to somebody."

A spokesperson for the Vancouver police said that they do not suspect foul play, but out of respect for the Koenig family, would not elaborate on a cause of death at this time.

• Walter said that ten people were part of a private search on Thursday during which a friend phoned him saying that he had found Andrew's body.

DAYS LEADING UP TO KOENIG'S DEATH

Koenig was last seen on February 14th. His family became alarmed when he did not show up for a flight on the 16th and began searching for him.

After Koenig went missing, it was discovered that the 41-year-old had given his landlord 30 days notice on his Venice, CA apartment in January without securing a new home. He had been selling off his belongings before leaving for Canada to visit friends.

ANDREW'S PROFESSIONAL BIOGRAPHY

Koenig was best known for playing Richard "Boner" Stabone on the ABC sitcom Growing Pains.

• Wikipedia reported that he appeared as The Joker in the fan film Batman: Dead End, starred as the M.C. in the 2007 interactive theater play The Boomerang Kid, and performed with the improv group Charles Whitman Reilly and Friends. In addition to his acting career, he was also a video producer for the podcast Never Not Funny.

CHECK IT OUT: Watch his parents' statement: http://tinyurl.com/y9kwdzg

TIGER WOODS UPDATES

TIGER IN REHAB TO KICK SLEEP AIDS & PAINKILLERS: Tiger Woods is in Arizona for further therapy, but this time it's to kick an addiction to pain medication and sleep aids. According to the New York Post, Woods checked into The Meadows treatment center in Wickenburg, Arizona, to deal with a dependence on sleep inducer Ambien and painkiller Vicodin. The night Woods crashed his car outside his Florida home last November, Elin Nordegren told the police that her husband had active prescriptions for Ambien and Vicodin. It was also reported that Woods has taken a sleep aid before getting into his vehicle. The golfer previously spent more than a month in rehab for sex addiction.

PETA POKES FUN AT TIGER IN HEAT: People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals are poking fun at the Tiger Woods sex scandal situation to fuel their latest pet birth control campaign. A Billboard posted near the golf pro's home in Windermere, Florida, features a large photo of Woods with the lines: "TOO MUCH SEX CAN BE A BAD THING ... for little tigers too. Help keep your cats (and dogs) out of trouble: Always spay or neuter!" A rep for PETA told the Orlando Sentinel: ""We're sure Tiger will appreciate our attempt -- from a story that's distracted the world and followed Tiger -- to turn it into something positive for little tigers." But according to TMZ, Woods is not amused and the billboards may not be rolling out across the country. "In light of conversations we have had with Mr. Woods' attorneys, plans to run our billboard are on hold at this time."

TIGER OK FOR OLYMPIC GOLF TEAM, SAYS POLL: Despite his tarnished reputation, Tiger Woods would still be OK'd by most Americans to represent the country at the Olympics. According to a Seton Hall University poll, 69 percent of respondents would back Woods as part of an Olympic golfing team. The International Olympic Committee added golf as an official sport last year, and the first event is set for the 2016 Summer Games in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

NIKE CONTINUES TO BACK TIGER BUT WANT HIM TO TAKE HIS TIME: Sports apparel maker Nike, a longtime sponsor of Tiger Woods, continues to stand by him but says he should take his time before returning to the links. On Thursday, Nike president Charlie Denson told AP: "We've been very supportive of Tiger since the story broke and we continue to be supportive. He's got issues he needs to deal with and he's dealing with them. We are looking forward to him getting back on the golf course. Under the circumstances, the more he deals with the issues and the better he deals with them, the better off he'll be when he does return." Both AT&T Inc. and Accenture dropped Woods in the weeks after the scandal broke.

TENSION BETWEEEN SIMON AND ELLEN REPORTEDLY GROWING WORSE

The tension is reportedly growing between Simon Cowell and Ellen DeGeneres. Sources tell TMZ.com that the two American Idol judges don't like each other -- and they aren't trying to hide it.

Insiders say that Ellen gets angered by Simon's cruelty towards contestants -- and Cowell enjoys "pissing off' his co-worker with his harsh comments.

Supposedly things have been bad between the two since Ellen's first day when Simon showed up late, but Cowell insists the incident was overblown in the media. He told us: "There was one story I read that I turned up an hour late or something and that she wanted to film. I mean the truth was I think I turned up 15 or 20 minutes late because I did a press conference earlier in the day and they did start filming. But, that wasn't a particular problem. But no there was no fall out, I was trying to guide her through the week and that was about it really."

CHECK IT OUT: Worst types of co-workers: http://tinyurl.com/yleznrx

CONAN O'BRIEN JOINS TWITTER

As Jay Leno prepares his return to the Tonight Show, Conan O'Brien is keeping busy -- on Twitter. The former talk show host joined the social networking site on Wednesday, sending out an inaugural tweet which read: "Today I interviewed a squirrel in my backyard and then threw to commercial. Somebody help me."

His profile features a picture of himself -- with a beard -- holding a chimp on his back.
The Hollywood Reporter announced that Conan got 1,000 followers a minute within the first three hours of signing up. Less than 24 hours after joining he'd already logged over a quarter of a million.

• Meanwhile, the publication also reported that while Conan and Fox are actively working on a deal, Conan is also in talks to take his show live to theaters across the country. The Reporter says that tour would make the comedian more appealing to Fox, and an announcement about Conan's latest projects might upstage Leno's return to the Tonight Show.

BROOKE MUELLER REPORTEDLY LEAVES REHAB FOR HOME TREATMENT

Brooke Mueller has reportedly left her second rehab in as many weeks in favor of home treatment. TMZ.com reports that Brooke wanted to be back home with her kids since husband Charlie Sheen is now in rehab, so she brought sober coaches, therapists and "others" to her house in order to continue treatment there.

One person told TMZ that there is so much luggage and so many people in the house, "it looks like a circus." Supposedly Charlie's mom and dad -- Martin Sheen -- are also living at the house.

• Meanwhile, insiders claim that Sheen is "calm and committed" after his first day of rehab.

PROSECUTORS REPORTEDLY BUILDING CASE AGAINST SHEEN

Meanwhile, RadarOnline.com reports that Colorado authorities want to interview at least three women from Charlie Sheen's past as they get ready to prosecute the actor on domestic violence charges. A source told the website that the district attorney handling Sheen's case has not issued subpoenas and authorities want the women to cooperate voluntarily as they collect information about Sheen's troubled past.

BRITTANY MURPHY'S FULL AUTOPSY RESULTS RELEASED

Brittany Murphy's full autopsy result was released on Thursday (February 25th), complete with a list of prescription drugs found in her system at the time of her death. No illegal drugs were detected in her body.

RadarOnline.com reports that Propranolol, Hydrocodone, Phenazopyridine, Fluoxetine, Dextromethorphan, Chlorpheniramine were found in her stomach while methamphetamines were found in her urine, blood and heart.

The report stated, "It should be noted that the pattern of use of these medications suggest treatment of symptoms of a cold or other respiratory infection. Acetaminophen and hydrocodone are components of Vicodin. Chlorpheniramine is the active ingredient in some over-the-counter medications. L-methamphetamine is a component of some inhalers."

• The report concluded, "The possible adverse elevated levels of these medications cannot be discounted, especially in her weakened state. Therefore the manner of death is accident."
• It was previously reported that Murphy's death was caused by community acquired pneumonia, iron deficiency anemia, multiple drug intoxication and an accidental drug overdose.

FOUR CONTESTANTS ELIMINATED FROM 'AMERICAN IDOL'

It was elimination night on 'American Idol', and the bottom four contestants were sent home. The show was filled with guest appearances by last season's Allison Iraheta and Kris Allen. The Top 12 girls were the first to receive their results. Janell Wheeler was the first of the bottom four to be kicked off. Between Didi Benami and Ashley Rodriguez, Rodriguez was the second girl eliminated. Following Iraheta's performance of her new single, the boys received their results. A shocked Tim Urban remained in the competition while Jose Munoz became the third contestant to leave the show. The show concludes with Tyler Grady getting kicked off over a relieved Alex Lambert.

BOOTED 'BACHELOR' CONTESTANT REPORTEDLY HAS SEX TAPE

Bachelor contestant Rozlyn Papa may have had limited visibility on the show after getting kicked off for her supposed producer affair -- but she may be getting more screen time soon if reports of a sex tape are true. TMZ.com reports that an explicit video starring the 28-year-old is being "shopped around the porn community" in Los Angeles.

Kevin Blatt, a rep for porn website LiveJasmin, has viewed the tape and tells TMZ that "it's definitely Rozlyn." Papa -- a single mom and makeup artist from Virginia -- is supposedly seen performing a "sexual act" with a "well-endowed" male partner.

• Papa's rep told TMZ simply that her client "has no knowledge of any tape"
• Papa recently made headlines at the Bachelor Women Tell All special, when she accused Bachelor host Chris Harrison of hitting on someone's wife. He later called her "desperate."

MOVIE OPENING THIS WEEKEND!

Opening today (February 26th) is the new thriller The Crazies, starring Timothy Olyphant, Joe Anderson, Danielle Panabaker and Rahda Mitchell. The Crazies follows Sheriff Dutton, played by Olyphant, as he tries to figure out what is making everyone in his picture perfect town crazy as complete chaos has taken over and the government uses deadly force to close off all access to the town. The Crazies was direct by Breck Eisner.

• The Crazies rated R and has a running time of 1 hour and 40 minutes.

Opening today (February 26th) is the new comedy from Kevin Smith, Cop Out, starring Bruce Willis, Tracy Morgan, Sean William Scott and Kevin Pollan. Cop Out follows two NYPD partners, played by Willis and Morgan, looking for a rare, mint condition baseball card and find themselves up against a memorbilia-obessed gangster because Jimmy, the veteran detective played by Willis, must pay for his daughter's wedding and whose only way to do so is to sell his missing collectible.

• Cop Out is rated R and has a running time of 1 hour and 50 minutes.

HEADLINE NEWS!!

Friday, February 26, 2010

NO DEAL REACHED AT HEALTH CARE SUMMIT ON LEGISLATION: In news that isn't much of a surprise, no deal was reached between the Democrats led by President Obama and the Republicans at yesterday's (February 25th) televised bipartisan health care reform summit. There were some areas of agreement, including banning insurers from dropping customers who get sick, ending annual and lifetime limits on benefits and letting young adults stay on their parents' health policies to their mid-20s. But they were largely overshadowed by the bigger differences at the conference that featured lots of mind-numbing detail and some partisan flare-ups. Obama rejected the Republican calls to start over, discuss the issue some more, or do reform in a more limited, step-by-step way, saying, "We cannot have another year-long debate about this." In fact, when the seven-and-a-half-hour session ended, Obama signaled Democrats were prepared to move ahead with getting the legislation through Congress, possibly using reconciliation, a procedural move in the Senate that allows measures to be passed with the standard 51-vote majority without having to get 60 votes to block a filibuster.

VA TO TAKE ANOTHER LOOK AT GULF WAR SYNDROME DISABILITY CLAIMS: The Veterans Affairs Department has decided to re-examine disability claims for Gulf War syndrome, medical ailments that Gulf War veterans blame on their service during the 1991 war. The VA says it also plans to improve training for medical staff who work with Gulf War vets, to make sure they don't simply tell them that their symptoms are imaginary. About 175,000 to 210,000 Gulf War veterans suffer from a pattern of symptoms that include rashes, joint and muscle pain, sleep issues and gastrointestinal problems. The cause has been unknown, with speculation about pesticides or medication given to protect troops from nerve agents as possible culprits. A 1994 law allows the VA to pay compensation to Gulf War vets with certain chronic disabilities from illnesses that couldn't be diagnosed. The new reviews plans to look at how regulations were written to ensure the veterans received the compensation they were entitled to under the law. The veterans would then have the opportunity to have a rejected claim reconsidered.

SEAWORLD WON'T FREE OR DESTROY KILLER WHALE: SeaWorld said yesterday (February 25th) that it will not free or destroy the killer whale that drowned one of the park's animal trainers the day before. It is, however, suspending all killer whale shows while it decides whether to change the way handlers work with them. Tilikum, the whale who dragged Dawn Brancheau into the pool from a platform and fatally thrashed her around, has been involved in the death of two other people dating back to 1991. But Chuck Tompkins, chief of animal training for SeaWorld, said Tilikum wouldn't survive in the wild because he's been captive for so long, and that destroying him isn't an option, because he's an important part of SeaWorld's breeding program and a companion to the seven other orcas there.

TODAY'S FYI:

BUSH AND CHENEY HAVE FIRST POST-WHITE HOUSE REUNION: Former President George W. Bush and his former vice president, Dick Cheney, got together yesterday (February 25th) for the first time since leave office more than 13 months ago, ABC News reported. Their meeting, taking place just three days after Cheney was hospitalized with a minor heart attack, his fifth, took place at the former vice president's McLean, Virginia, home. Both men were supposed to attend today's gathering of Bush administration alumni in Washington, but Cheney pulled out because of his medical condition. However, he invited Bush to have coffee at his house yesterday since his former boss was scheduled to be in town for a Marine Corps University Foundation gala dinner. Neither Bush nor Cheney's camp would say what the two discussed.

RARE BATMAN COMIC BOOK BREAKS JUST-SET AUCTION RECORD: A copy of the 1939 comic book in which Batman debuted sold at auction yesterday (February 25th) for more than $1 million, breaking the $1 million record that was set just three days earlier by a copy of the comic in which Superman made his debut. Heritage Auction Galleries said the rare copy of Detective Comics Number 27, with a cover that shows Batman swing on a roof above city rooftops, sold for $1,075,500 to a buyer who wants to remain anonymous. The auction house said the consigner had bought the Batman comic in the late 1960s for $100.

MUSEUM ATTENDANCE UP: Many museums across the country saw an increase in the number of visitors during the height of the Great Recession last year, according to a study out yesterday (February 25th) from the American Association of Museums, as museum officials said more people were choosing to skip an expensive trip and have a "staycation" at home instead. More than 57 percent of the museums surveyed saw an increase in visitors, and more than 40 percent saw significant spikes. Only fewer than one-third reported decreasing attendance. At the same time, museums are still struggling financially, due to reductions in investment income and government, corporate and philanthropic funding.

AIR FORCE PILOT WHO DISMISSED RADAR BLIP BEFORE PEARL HARBOR ATTACK DEAD AT 96: Pilot Kermit Tyler, an Army Air Force lieutenant during World War Two who dismissed a big radar screen blip on the morning of the Pearl Harbor attack that turned out to be the first wave of Japanese bombers, died last month at age 96. Tyler was on temporary duty at a radar information center in Hawaii when two privates reported seeing the unusually large radar blip 132 miles away. But Tyler told them not to worry about it, believing the blip to be a fleet of U.S. B-17 bombers due in from the mainland. Tyler was ultimately cleared of wrongdoing, and he said in a 2007 interview, "I wake up at nights sometimes and think about it. But I don't feel guilty. I did all I could that morning." Tyler retired from the Air Force as a lieutenant colonel in 1961.

CALIFORNIA LAWMAKERS DECLARE 'CUSS FREE WEEK': California's government has some big problems to deal with, chief among them a huge budget mess. But the state Assembly found time Thursday (February 25th) to approve a resolution making the first week of March "Cuss Free Week." The ceremonial measure was inspired by a Southern California teenager whose creation of a "no cussing" school club sparked an international movement. Democratic Assemblyman Anthony Portantino, one of the measure's sponsors, is giving out no-cuss jars to all the legislative offices in the Capitol, as well as to Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger, so they can put in a coin whenever they slip up and curse.

SPORTS:

VANCOUVER WINTER OLYMPICS:

South Korean Kim Yu-Na Wins Women's Figure Skating Gold: Heavy favorite Kim Yu-na lived up to expectations and more last night (February 25th), winning the women's figure skating gold by scoring a world-record 228.56 points, smashing her previous record by more than 18 points. Silver medalist Mao Asada landed two triple axels -- the only woman in the competition who does the difficult jump -- but she couldn't top Kim. Canadian Joannie Rochette, who's won the world's heart with her courage in performing the short program two days earlier and the free skate last night just days after her mother's sudden death last weekend, landed bronze. American Mirai Nagasu came in fourth, and teammate Rachel Flatt was seventh, making this only the second Olympics since 1952 when the American women didn't win at least one medal.

Canadian Women Beat U.S. to Take Hockey Gold: The Canadian women's hockey team shut out the U.S. 2-0 yesterday to win gold for the third straight Olympics, this time on their home soil. Marie-Philip Poulin scored Canada's two goals in the first period, goalie Shannon Szabados made 28 saves, and the Canadians dominated the game, defeating the only other team in women's hockey that had any chance of beating them. Meghan Agosta was named tournament MVP for her Olympic-record nine goals. The U.S. took the silver, and Finland won the bronze after beating Sweden 3-2 in overtime earlier in the day.

• The International Olympic Committee said it will investigate the behavior of the Canadian players, who celebrated their gold medal by coming back on the ice more than half an hour after their win, where they drank beer and champagne and smoked cigars.

Mancuso Finishes Giant Slalom in Eighth Place: U.S. skier Julia Mancuso, the defending Olympic champion in the giant slalom, ended the race in eighth place after her second run yesterday, one day after she came in a dismal 18th in the first run because she had to restart the race. Mancuso was sent back to the top to restart Wednesday after being stopped halfway down the course because teammate Lindsey Vonn, who'd crashed just before her, was still tangled in safety netting that lines the course. Mancuso turned in the third-best time in the second run, which had been postponed from Wednesday because of bad weather, but it wasn't enough to pull her up on to the medal stand. The surprise winner of the race was young and unheralded Viktoria Rebensburg of Germany.

• Mancuso sought yesterday to defuse the talk of tension between her and Vonn, sparked by her comment to Sports Illustrated that Vonn was getting too much attention. Mancuso insisted that the whole situation has been taken out of proportion, and called Vonn "the greatest female American skier we've had." She also said she didn't blame Vonn for her having to restart in the giant slalom.

U.S. Wins Gold and Silver in Nordic Combined: The U.S. won gold and silver in the men's large hill Nordic combined yesterday, as Billy Demong became America's first-ever Olympic champion in a Nordic sport. Johnny Spillane won silver and Bernhard Gruber of Austria won bronze in the sport that combines cross-country skiing and ski jumping.

Teammate Says Ohno to Retire After Vancouver Olympics: U.S. short-track speedskater Apolo Anton Ohno has been keeping quiet about his post-Vancouver Olympics plans, but teammate Simon Cho revealed yesterday that the seven-time medal winner will be hanging up his skates after this Olympics. Cho wrote on Twitter, "Today was officially the last ice practice for Apolo Ohno. I'm honored to be included in the last chapter of his competitive skating career." Ohno and Cho will both be part of the U.S. team competing in the 5,000-meter relay tonight, in what would be Ohno's final race. He'll also compete in the 500-meter earlier in the night.

MEDAL COUNT: The U.S. now has 32 medals overall -- 8 gold, 12 silver and 12 bronze. The U.S. is first in the overall medal count ahead of Germany, which has 26. Norway is third with 19. The U.S., Germany and Canada are tied for first place in gold medals with 8 each. Norway is second with 7, and South Korea and Switzerland are tied for third with 6 each.

(Headline News, FYI and Sports stories were compiled in part from reports by the Associated Press and Reuters.)

ON THE TUBE TODAY & THE WEEKEND

1. Friday, February 26, 2010

CBS

• GHOST WHISPERER (repeat)
• MEDIUM (repeat)
• NUMB3RS (repeat)

NBC

• XXI WINTER OLYMPICS - 8 PM, Slalom; Bobsled; Short Track Speed Skating

FOX

• THE 41ST NAACP IMAGE AWARDS - The NAACP recognizes artistic achievements; Tyler Perry receives the NAACP Chairman's Award; Wyclef Jean receives the Vanguard Award; Anika Noni Rose and Hill Harper host.

ABC

• BLADES OF GLORY - A few years after being banned from men's single skating, two rivals find a loophole and team up to compete as a pair. Starring Will Ferrell, Jon Heder, Will Arnett, Amy Poehler and Jenna Fischer.
• 20/20 - A judge rules that a father cannot expose his 3-year-old daughter to any religion other than Judaism; child sacrifice is an emerging phenomenon in Uganda.

CW

• SMALLVILLE - A doctor who died and was brought back to life by Kandorians tries to prove that aliens have invaded Earth; Lois is kidnapped.
• SMALLVILLE (repeat)

HBO

• THE RICKY GERVAIS SHOW -
• THE LIFE & TIMES OF TIM - Tim's search for a place to stay leads him to a priest; Tim, Stu and Rodney find a stripper version of Amy in Atlantic City.
• REAL TIME WITH BILL MAHER - Editor Chrystia Freeland; author Reihan Salam; actress Olivia Wilde; Richard Haas, president of the Council on Foreign Relations.

STARZ

• SPARTACUS: BLOOD AND SAND - After winning in the arena, Spartacus is told by Batiatus that he will be reunited with his wife.

DAY TIME TALK SHOW

THE ELLEN DEGENERES SHOW - Jimmy Kimmel
THE OPRAH WINFREY SHOW - Oprah's Wowie-Kazowie Auction, Plus Jimmy Fallon
THE VIEW - Regis & Joy Philbin

LATE NIGHT TALK SHOWS

THE LATE SHOW WITH DAVID LETTERMAN (CBS) - (repeat)
THE TONIGHT SHOW WITH JAY LENO (NBC) - Pre-empted for Olympics coverage
JIMMY KIMMEL LIVE (ABC) - Dana Delaney, Scotty Lago, Daniel Merriweather
THE LATE LATE SHOW WITH CRAIG FERGUSON (CBS) - Quentin Tarantino, Mumford & Sons
LATE NIGHT WITH JIMMY FALLON (NBC) - Pre-empted for Olympics coverage
LAST CALL WITH CARSON DALY (NBC) - Pre-empted for Olympics coverage

SATURDAY

NBC

• XXI WINTER OLYMPICS - 1 PM, Speed Skating; Snowboarding; Cross Country
• XXI WINTER OLYMPICS - 8 PM, Figure Skating concludes with the Champions Gala; Alpine Skiing (men's slalom); bobsled (four men); Snowboard (men's parallel)

SUNDAY

CBS

• THE AMAZING RACE 16 - One team is led astray when one of its members cannot use a compass as well as originally thought; a team rushes into an emergency room.
• UNDERCOVER BOSS - While under cover in the company, White Castle owner Dave Rife mishandles bakery equipment.
• COLD CASE - While at a colleague's wedding, the team tries to determine if the bride was responsible for her former fiance's death.

NBC

• XXI WINTER OLYMPICS - 7 PM, 21st Winter Olympic Games Conclude, Closing Ceremoney

FOX

• THE SIMPSONS (repeat)
• THE CLEVELAND SHOW (repeat)
• FAMILY GUY (repeat)
• AMERICAN DAD (repeat)

ABC

• EXTREME MAKEOVER: HOME EDITION (repeat)
• DESPERATE HOUSEWIVES - Celia contracts chicken pox; Penny's birthday is forgotten; Bree hires a new employee.
• BROTHERS & SISTERS - Sarah struggles with her feelings for Luc; Kevin has a hard time breaking up with Robert; Holly thinks there might be a hidden value in Ojai foods.

HBO

• BIG LOVE - Sarah surprises the family with an annoucement; Nicki tries to be the woman Bill wants her to be; Bill questions Margene's reasons for getting married; Bill looks for clues about J.J. in Kansas.
• HOW TO MAKE IT IN AMERICA - Ben and Cam track down a tailor; Rachel rethinks her future; Rene makes a buyout offer to his marketing partners.

OFF BEAT BRIEFS

MAN VIOLATES PROBATION TO APPEAR ON JERRY SPRINGER: A man from North Carolina spent three days in jail after violating his probation in order to make an appearance on ''The Jerry Springer Show'', taped in Connecticut. Richard Peterson, 30, received an all-expenses-paid trip to appear on the show with his girlfriend. He was caught violating probation when his probation officer spotted him on the TV program. In the video clips, Peterson is seen boasting about a one-night stand while dodging swings from his girlfriend. He was on probation for possession of marijuana and resisting arrest. Peterson was in Lincoln County Jail on Thursday. (AP)

WOMAN CARRIES SWORD INTO ELEMENTARY SCHOOL: A Memphis mother of an elementary school student drank a 40 oz. bottle of a malt liquor and charged into Riverview Elementary School with a sword. The 32-year-old woman intended to confront the parents of another student who has been in an argument with her child the previous day. According to court records, an employee of the school reported a drunk woman with a sword who was running through the halls and had threatened to cut her. Officers found the woman with a black cane that concealed a blade. She was charged with aggravated assault and having a weapon on school property. (AP)

KITE-FLYING BANNED IN PAKISTAN: Pakistan's old tradition of kite-flying has been banned, enraging many people. Pakistani authorities said that the sport has killed people and encourage ''immoral '' celebrations. The festival, that takes place in Basant, indicates the start of spring in eastern Punjab. The traditional sport involves aerial duels in which contestants try to take down each other's kites by coating the string with sticky paste and ground up glass or metal. Despite the people's disapproval, the Lahore High Court has denied the request to lift the ban of the festival. ''It's our culture,'' said Shaoib Mehmoob, a Lahore shopkeeper. ''Our forefathers were celebrating it. It's an event where we share happiness with family and friends. It's fun. It's harmless.'' (Reuters)

80-YEAR-OLD BURGLAR SENTENCED TO 3 YEARS: An 80-year-old woman was sentenced to a three years in prison after ransacking and stealing money from a Southern California medical office. Doris Thompson has a criminal record stretching back to 1955. During her hearing, Thompson thanked the judge for not sending her to Los Angeles County Jail, which she does not like. Thompson has been to prison before, mainly for petty theft and burglary. She pleaded guilty to stealing money out of the medical office's drawers and was ordered to pay $1,400 for restitution. Thompson will be elligable for parole in about 18 months. (AP)

DID YOU KNOW?

MILLENNIALS' ARE THE MOST TATTOOED GENERATION: 18-to-29-year-olds (aka "millennials" or "Generation Y") lead the nation in getting tattoos. According to a survey by the Pew Research Center, 38 percent of "millennials" have at least one tattoo. While that isn't a huge increase over the 32 percent of 30-to-46-year-olds who have body art -- only about 10 percent of those over 46 have a tattoo -- what differentiates the younger generation is how many tattoos they get. 50 percent of all inked millennials have more than one tattoo, and 18 percent have more than five. Among 30-to-46-year-olds with a tattoo, half only sport one; only 9 percent have more than five. (Asylum.com)

WEBSITE CATERS TO ACCENT-CRAZY SINGLES: A new website -- http://www.iloveyouraccent.com/ -- is a US/UK hook-up site for singles who are crazy for the other nation's accent!

From the website:

"ILoveYourAccent.com gives you the opportunity to socialize with like minded people across the pond, but also in the next City or State. If you cannot bear another evening in the local bar longing for that special someone to walk in and actually wishing you had stayed home and finished the laundry, then think outside the box and join iloveyouraccent.com

BUZZ TONE KEEPS TEENS AWAY: Clicking the link below will produce a tone that is generally only heard by people under the age of 25. It has been used as a deterrent device to keep teenagers from loitering in malls and shops, and sounds similar to a buzzing mosquito. The elderly and people with hearing damage often cannot hear the sound. http://theoatmeal.com/quizzes/sound/

OUR MOVEMENTS ARE PREDICTABLE 90% OF THE TIME: We are such creatures of habit that scientists can accurately predict where we'll go and when we'll go there more than 90 percent of the time. Researcher Albert-Laszlo Barbasi said: "If you drive for one and a half hours to work and back, three hours of your day are taken away so you have little freedom to be spontaneous. You are working, and traveling home and pretty much crashing and preparing for the next day." Professor Barbasi analyzed three months of mobile phone data from 50,000 people. Logged by billing companies when they made or received calls and text, it allowed the researchers to pinpoint their location to within two miles. The researchers used this information to build up a pattern of each person's movements during the week and at weekends. They found they could predict where a person would be at given time and get it right up to 93 per cent of the time. (Daily Mail)

1/4 OF SINGLE MOTHERS IN BRITAIN LIKE THE LIFESTYLE: A quarter of mothers in Britain are single parents because they prefer the lifestyle. A new study has found that most single mothers prefer to live alone. A survey by the British Social Attitudes found that more than half of mothers with children under 13 have never married or lived with a boyfriend and find it 'rewarding' to stay at home supported by state handouts. Researchers called for more efforts to encourage young men to take jobs so that more young mothers will choose living with a reliable breadwinner over a life on benefits. They added that the proportion of single mothers had risen from 10 percent to 25 percent in the past 20 years. The report said there is growing evidence that single motherhood is less a result of relationship breakdown, more a lifestyle choice.' (Daily Mail)

IMPOSSIBLE QUESTION

What former sitcom actor wrote the theme songs to Diff'rent Strokes and The Facts of Life?

A: Alan Thicke -- formerly of Growing Pains

Americans Would Support Having Tiger Woods on U.S. Olympic Golf Team

As much as Tiger Woods' wholesome image was shattered by the revelation of his serial martial infidelities, most Americans still say they'd support having him represent the U.S. on an Olympic golf team. A Seton Hall University poll found 69 percent wouldn't have a problem with Woods being on the U.S. team when golf becomes an Olympic sport beginning with the 2016 games in Rio de Janeiro. There was a bit of a gender gap, however, with 75 percent of the men saying it's okay with them, compared to 63 percent of the women. Woods, who's currently on an indefinite leave from golf because of his personal troubles, campaigned for the sport to be part of the Olympics.

Is Apple Going to Add an 'Explicit' App Category?

Britain's Telegraph newspaper reported yesterday (February 25th) that Apple may be readying to add an "explicit" app category. The report cited developers who've seen a new "explicit" category in the drop-down menus of iTunes Connect, the platform used to distribute apps through the App Store. Apple won't comment, and developers are now saying the category has been removed. The Telegraph cited technology website Gizmodo as saying a developer was told by an Apple representative that they were considering adding an "explicit" category to the App Store, but, quote, "it's not going to happen any time soon."

KFLAG COUNTRY MUSIC UPDATE

Craig Morgan has been enjoying the recent snow days at home in Tennessee as much as his children. In fact, Craig says he might have set a new speed record for sledding during the latest winter storm. "I did find out that -- in the first big snow we had in Tennessee, out in Dickson...it's the first one we've had in a while -- that I can do up to 40 miles an hour on a sled down my driveway. (laughs) But the snow was really deep, and it was iced over, so, and there...someone stood down there just to make sure no traffic was comin', and we got to the top of the hill, and by the time you crossed the road and jumped the road into the field across the road, you're doin' about 40 miles an hour on a sled. (laughs) It was awesome!"

• "This Ain't Nothin'" is the latest single from Craig's That's Why album, which also features his hits "Bonfire" and "Love Remembers."
• Craig will hit the road with Carrie Underwood's Play On tour beginning next month. The trek begins on March 11th in Reading, Pennsylvania.

Luke Bryan's recent success has brought some big changes to his life, like not being able to go places unrecognized anymore. The singer tells us has had to alter his normal routine these days. "You know, I have to catch myself walkin' into situations where I'm like, 'I can't do that anymore.' It's like, we used to play a bar and I'd go back in, get a couple beers from the bartender. Well, that doesn't happen anymore, and it's a little unfortunate cause I miss goin' in and kind of sittin' at the bar and havin' a beer, but it's also nice to know that you kind of create a little pandemonium when you go into that situation."

• Luke's new single, "Rain Is A Good Thing," is currently climbing the charts.
• He performs in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania tonight (Thursday, February 25th) as part of Jason Aldean's Wide Open tour.
• Luke is nominated for Top New Solo Vocalist at the upcoming Academy of Country Music Awards on April 18th.

Taylor Swift has posted a behind-the-scenes tour photo blog on her MySpace page, featuring comments about her recent stops in Australia and Japan. She's seen spending time with friends on the beach, in a hot tub and backstage. She wrote that Sydney "sparkled" and shared a batch of photos from Melbourne and Brisbane.

In Tokyo, the singer was able to do some more sightseeing and exploring. She wrote,
"This was a restaurant where they shot a fight scene from Kill Bill. We all watched it again beforehand to properly prepare." Swift spent Februry 14th in Tokyo and clearly didn't have a date for the holiday,writing, "It was Valentine's Day. Tokyo is my Valentine."

• Now Swift is back in the States getting ready for the U.S. leg of her tour. It's the first time Swift has been home in nearly a month. She adds, "I've been writing lots of songs. And the tour is starting up again soon in the US. I love you guys."
• Swift's U.S. tour gets underway on March 4th in Tampa, Florida.

CHECK IT OUT: See Swift's photo blog: http://tinyurl.com/ykvek8n

Sarah Buxton is enjoying chart success with her latest single, "Outside My Window." The song was initially inspired by a red bird that Sarah says was literally outside her window every day for weeks, constantly flying into the glass. "I was like, 'I wanna write a song about this bird. There's this weird bird that keeps banging into the window,' and then the rest of the song kind of all came together. It's like the bird led to other crazy things that are goin' on -- all the wars and the fighting and everybody thinkin' that the world's gone crazy with youtube and myspace and all this, but, you know, when it comes down to it we all come back to each other. We have dinner at night. We have our best friends that we look to for guidance, and things that we want to believe in, and that's what the song's about."

• Sarah's brand new self-titled CD was released on Tuesday (February 23rd).
• Sarah is currently on the Shine All Night tour with headliners Martina McBride and Trace Adkins. The perform tonight (Thursday, February 25th) in Fort Wayne, Indiana.

FAST FACTS

• Sarah has been working on her debut album since shortly after being signed to Lyric Street records in 2006.
• She wrote Keith Urban's Top Three hit, "Stupid Boy," which appeared on his 2006 album Love, Pain & the Whole Crazy Thing.

Trace Adkins was presented with the Country Radio Broadcaster's Artist Humanitarian award to kick off this week's Country Radio Seminar. The honor was presented to him by Alabama's Randy Owen, who won the award last year. Trace told the crowd, "The first concert I ever went to was Whitesnake. The second was Alabama. They were very different shows. I do truly deserve this because I've never killed anybody. And I've wanted to. Maybe some of you. I'd like to announce my retirement." On a sincere note, Trace added, "I do what I can. I try to help folks out. I'm humbled by [this] and honored by it ... and I'm grateful."

---

Jo Dee Messina is in a good place personally these days, but that wasn't always the case for the 40-year-old singer. She recently opened up about her broken engagement to her ex-fiance, Don Muzquiz, back in 2004. That was a long time ago, and Messina has been happily married to her new beau, Chris Deffenbaugh, since 2007. But she does have advice for anyone who's been broken up with -- while engaged.

Messina tells OK! magazine, "Hang on. Just keep going, just keep going. I wrote a song at that point, and it said something to the extent of 'oh my God, the sun came out again.' Just keep moving forward. Just take the next step forward. Keep moving. Keep breathing."

Looking back, she describes that time as "devastating." Messina adds, "That was nine years of my life. That's a big chunk of somebody's lifetime that I was with that person, and you kind of have to relive again. That's why I say 'just keep breathing,' because everything's going to be new. Figure your way through it."

• Messina says things with her current husband are "effortless." She adds, "We still love each other for all the wonderful things and all the quirks . . . It's like he sees them all, and he still loves me. And me with him. It's those little things that make him perfect."
• Messina's new album, Unmistakable, comes out on April 13th.

CHECK IT OUT: How to Break Off a Wedding Engagement: ttp://tinyurl.com/ylmfsge

COUNTRY TRIVIA

Q. How many consecutive ACM trophies for Entertainer of the Year does Kenny Chesney have?
A. Four

COUNTRY ON THE TUBE TODAY!

MASTER SERIES/GAC 12:00PM (ET)
Dolly Parton

GAC NIGHTS/GAC 8:00PM (ET)
Sarah Buxton

CELEBRATING BIRTHDAYS TODAY!

Bert McCracken (frontman, the Used) (28)

• Sean Astin (actor, the Lord Of The Rings movies' Samwise Gamgee) (39)
• Tea Leoni (actress, Deep Impact, The Family Man, Jurassic Park III; wife of David Duchovny) (44)
• Sally Jessy Raphael (former talk show host) (75)

ON THIS DAY IN COUNTRY!

• Tim McGraw became the first country artist to receive a platinum single for digital downloads when his pop collaboration with Nelly, "Over And Over," was certified for one million downloads in 2005.
• Josh Gracin performed "I'll Be" in his first appearance on the FOX-TV talent competition American Idol in 2003.
• Wade Hayes scored his first Number One with "Old Enough To Know Better" in 1995.
• Dwight Yoakam took "I Sang Dixie" to Number One on the Billboard country chart in 1989.
• George Strait sold out all 49,000 seats at the Houston Astrodome in less than 24 hours in 1987, the fastest sellout there ever.
• Elvis Presley scored his first Number One country hit, "I Forgot To Remember To Forget," in 1956.

CELEBRITY GOSSIP!!!

GEORGE CLOONEY ISN'T SELLING ITALIAN HOME: George Clooney has denied a report which said he was selling his Italian villa and moving to an island in order to avoid the paparazzi. The actor said in a statement, "To complete the news cycle: I am not buying an island and am not selling my house in Italy. The story was made up, then picked up and now denied. End of another riveting day of false news."

CHARLIE SHEEN IN REHAB FOR COKE AND BOOZE: Charlie Sheen reportedly checked into rehab to address alcohol and cocaine addictions. RadarOnline.com reports that Sheen and wife Brooke Mueller had been partying all night with both substances on the night of the actor's arrest -- and a source claims "the partying didn't stop there. The insider told Radar, "He's used coke and been drinking many, many other times since then." However, "He loves his children and ultimately that's what convinced him to get help."

JON VOIGHT TALKS ABOUT ANGELINA VISIT: Jon Voight is speaking out about his recent reunion with formerly-estranged daughter Angelina Jolie, telling Usmagazine.com that the experience in Venice, Italy was "lovely." He added, "I love the possibility of spending time with the family. It's a very beautiful thing." As for the state of his daughter's union with Brad Pitt, Voight agreed that the couple is doing fine: "Of course they are! You can see!"

MARY KATE OLSEN AND BOYFRIEND SPLIT: Mary Kate Olsen is single. Usmagazine.com confirmed that the actress-designer-mogul and Nate Lowman have split after nearly two years of dating. When asked if the two were still an item, Olsen's rep said, "No, they are not. It's been a while."

LEIF GARRETT PLEADS NOT GUILTY: Leif Garrett pled not guilty to one felony count of heroin possession in court on Wednesday (February 24th). Garrett was arrested on February 1st after cops spotted him shaking and sweating at an L.A. train station and found heroin on him. He's due back in court on March 1st.

ELIZABETH HURLEY WEARS REVEALING SARI: Elizabeth Hurley showed off (a lot of) of her body earlier this week a London event. Some claim to have seen the actress's nipple through her sheer gray sari. Check it out: http://tinyurl.com/yeq4vfz

HOLLYWOOD NEWS

NEW 'SNL' HOSTS ANNOUNCED: Jude Law and Zach Galifianakis will host episodes of Saturday Night Live next month. Galifianakis will take the stage on March 6th with music guest Vampire Weekend, while Jude Law will host on March 13th along with Pearl Jam.

LAUREN CONRAD RETURNING TO TV? Lauren Conrad could be returning to television. The former Hills stars, whose made headlines as a best-selling author since leaving the reality show, told MTV News, "I loved being involved with television, so currently I'm working on more of the production side, but I'm trying to figure out where I want to go from there. I had my break. My break was nice, so we'll see. Well, we will see."

NEW VILLAIN CAST FOR 'PIRATES': Pirates of the Caribbean has a new bad guy. PerezHilton.com reports that Ian McShane, best known for his role on Deadwood, will be starring opposite Johnny Depp as the film's villain, named Black Beard.

KIM KARDASHIAN MULLS FAMILY MOVIE CASTING: Kim Kardashian mulled over the possibility of a feature film based on her family and decided that if it were to happen -- Penelope Cruz would be the ideal choice to play her. She added that younger sisters Kendall and Kylie would be played by Dakota Fanning and Rachel Bilson. High School Musical's Vanessa Hudgens would play Kourtney, while Liv Tyler would be cast as Khloe. Taylor Lautner would play the role of Kim's brother Rob, while real-life couple Catherine Zeta-Jones and Michael Douglas were chosen to play the parts of Kris Jenner and Bruce Jenn

MATT DAMON TO PLAY RFK; TURNED DOWN 'AVATAR' LEAD

Matt Damon will reportedly play Robert F. Kennedy in an upcoming film based on His Life, the Evan Thomas biography. Deadline.com reports that the film will follow Kennedy "as he rises from the shadow of his slain brother, President John F. Kennedy, before being assassinated during his own 1968 presidential campaign."

In other Damon news, James Cameron revealed that the actor turned down the lead role in Avatar. Another star who passed? Jake Gyllenhaal.

• Cameron told the Los Angeles Times, "I don't think they ever had a problem with the CG. Honestly, did I go out and try to woo them? No. I had my heart set on Sam. Maybe they sensed my lack of 100 percent commitment from me. Maybe it was the subject matter. This was a big Star Wars-type movie. They're both serious actors."

TIGER WOODS' PUBLIC APOLOGY NOT PROMPTED BY WIFE

Tiger Woods' controversial public apology last Friday (February 20th) was part of the philandering golfer's plan to repair his image and take responsibility for his actions. But according to People.com, it was not a move required by wife Elin Nordegren. "Elin has been very angry and had every right to be angry at him," said a source close to Woods. "She never demanded he make the apology but it was a gesture he was willing to do."

• The media and fans have speculated for months about whether Elin would divorce Woods, who re-entered rehab Monday for further sex addiction treatment with Elin and their two children along as support. "If it weren't for the kids and their future, she would be long gone," added the source.
• According to reports, Elin is an important part of Woods' decision making team, to the point where his handlers defer to her. "She has to be involved and they want to keep her happy," says another source.
• Elin was not present at the TPC Sawgrass clubhouse in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, when Woods made his 14-minute statement to a handpicked audience.

WOODS TEAM TO PAY COSTS FOR PRESS STATEMENT: Woods will have to pay all costs associated with last Friday's press statement. According to the Jacksonville Times, nearly 30 off-duty St. Johns County Sheriff's deputies worked overtime at $33 per hour, while the cost of the Sunset Room at the TPC Sawgrass clubhouse runs between $5,000 and $15,000 depending on the season and time of day. It wasn't clear whether Woods' ETW Corporation or IMG, his management group, would be footing the bill.

RACE FOR 'DANCING WITH THE STARS' CO-HOST HEATS UP

Brooke Burke seems to think her chances at landing the Dancing With the Stars co-host gig are pretty good. The season seven winner tried out for the job and told X17Online.com, "The screen test went as well as one could go. So fun to be back on the dance floor, but this time with a lot less nerves. It was a joy to work with Tom as I knew it would be. My heart is totally in it. Maybe I should look into my mirror ball trophy for the future. We shall see."

Burke still has to fend off some tough competition. X17Online.com reported that Vanessa Minnillo appeared on the set earlier this week for her own screen test. Although she's lately only been known as Nick Lachey's girlfriend -- Vanessa's hosting resume includes stints on MTV's TRL, Entertainment Tonight and ABC's reality show True Beauty.

• Also reportedly auditioning is DWTS alum Melissa Rycroft.

MATTHEW FOX ACCUSED OF CHEATING ON WIFE WITH STRIPPER

Matthew Fox is the latest married celeb caught in a cheating scandal. The National Enquirer claims that the Lost star had an affair with 26-year-old stripper Stefani Talbott.

Cab driver Andi Watson claims she drove the couple to Talbott's townhouse on December 29th. She told the Enquirer, "They kissed and touched each other in the cab," adding that she picked them back up an hour and a half after the drop off, at which point, "they were more romantic than before, kissing a lot more and hugging each other."

• After dropping off Fox, Watson says she heard the stripper bragging to a friend that she had sex with the Lost star.
• Fox, who has been married for 18 years and has two children, denies the story.

PARENTS MAKE PUBLIC PLEA TO ANDREW KOENIG

The parents of missing actor Andrew Koenig pleaded for their 41-year-old to resurface during a news conference on Wednesday (February 24th). Walter Koenig -- who played Mr. Chekov on the original Star Trek TV show -- and wife Judith held a televised press conference in Vancouver, the city where Koenig was last seen on February 16th.

Walter pleaded, "I just want to know you're okay. If it means you just want to stay here, that's okay. You don't have to come back. Just let us know that's your intention."

• Andrew, who once starred on Growing Pains, has long battled depression and reportedly has been off his medication. He cleared out his Los Angeles apartment about three weeks ago before traveling to Vancouver, where he once lived. Activity on his phone and ATM card stopped on the 16th.
• Constable Tim Fanning says police are hopeful Koenig was still in the area and "doesn't want to be found."

THE GUYS TAKE A RISK ON 'AMERICAN IDOL'

The Top 12 boys performed for the first time, live on American Idol last night. The show kicked off with Toddrick Hall, who did a very different version of Kelly Clarkson's "Since You Been Gone." His unique arrangement proved to be too much of a risk for the judges. Jermaine Sellers was another contestant who needed to take it back a notch. His attempt at showing off his vocal range did not gain him any positive comments. Some of the show's favorites, like Michael Lynche and Andrew Garcia, failed to meet the judges' expectations. Meanwhile, Lee Dewyze was among the few who got a compliment from Simon Cowell by singing his version of Snow Patrol's "Chasing Cars." The most popular contestant for the judges, however, was Casey James. The judges could not help but joke around during his performance, which earned as many compliments as his looks.

American Idol is back on top with TV audiences less than a week after the Olympics temporarily dethroned the ratings juggernaut. The results are a repeat of last Tuesday -- but a far stretch from last Wednesday when viewers were more interested in watching three U.S. athletes take gold at the Games.

In other Idol news, The New York Times examined the contracts of the show's contestants and determined that it is a financially life-altering experience for many of the top finishers. Despite his lagging album sales, last season's winner Kris Allen has earned at least $650,000 -- the minimum a winner could take home.

• Unnamed sources close to the show told the paper that between performance fees, merchandising royalties from the "Idol" tour and other opportunities, top finishers have never failed to earn less than $1 million in the year after winning on the show.
• The Times reported that finalists who make it to the top five this year will earn close to $100,000 from the show, and at least three times that amount if they get signed to a record deal by the show's producers. The top ten also stand to make several thousand dollars for the show in addition to the summer tour money.

JENNY MCCARTHY AND JIM CARREY MAY MARRY FOR TAX PURPOSES

Jenny McCarthy and Jim Carrey have always maintained that they wouldn't marry -- but deep in the heart of tax season -- the duo is changing their tune. McCarthy recently told Usmagazine.com, "We say 'never,' but I don't know. Maybe for tax purposes, someday, when we are old."

She added, "That's what we keep joking -- like, when we are 70! But for now, we're fine. We are really fine!"

• Meanwhile, the couple is about to become grandparents as Carey's daughter Jane is due to give birth next week. Of the impending arrival, McCarthy said, "I love it! I love, love, love it. I think I'm going to be the awesome grandma, the world's best, is what I say."

Parents Choosing More Unusual Names for Their Kids

Celebrities are well-known for giving unusual names to their kids, but new research has found that it's not just the famous who are doing it, but everyday parents are also choosing more unusual name for their kids. According to LiveScience.com, researchers say this could suggest a change in our culture from one in which fitting is was emphasized to one in which we care about being unique and standing out. However, they also say that if taken too far, the emphasis on individualism could lead to narcissism. Looking at naming trends, researchers found parents were less likely to choose the popular names of their time as decades went by. So, in the late 1800s and early 1900s, about five percent of babies were named the top common name, while more recently that dropped to one percent. The biggest decrease in giving common names to babies came in the 1990s.

HEADLINE NEWS!!

Thursday, February 25, 2010 OBAMA TO LEAD HEALTH CARE SUMMIT TODAY: The bipartisan health care reform summit led by President Obama will take place today (February 25th), as both sides see if they can find some common ground -- or at least make it look to voters like they're trying to. The summit, set to last for six hours, will be broadcast live from Blair House, across the street from the White House, with Obama joined by congressional leaders of both parties. They will talk about four issues: reforming insurance, cost containment, expanding coverage and the impact of health care legislation on deficit reduction. Obama released a plan Monday that tracks closely to the legislation that came out of the House and Senate, although with some changes. Republicans have rejected that, saying that they should start from scratch.

TOYODA APOLOGIZES BEFORE CONGRESS, LAWMAKERS STILL ANGRY: Toyota President Akio Toyoda repeatedly apologized for accidents and injuries involving his cars in an appearance before Congress yesterday (February 24th), which is investigating the Japanese automaker's safety record amid its massive recall of 8.5 million vehicles. Angry lawmakers want to know when Toyota knew there was a problem with sudden acceleration and how soon after that it took for recalls to be issued, as well as if the problem involves the vehicles' electronics, and not just sticky pedals and trapped floor mats, as Toyota insists. Mr. Toyoda said yesterday that the company started by his grandfather had lost its way during a period of fast growth, but pledged to steer it back to the values that had earned it a reputation for quality. On Wednesday evening, after Toyoda's day of testimony, he broke into tears at an event in Washington at which he was cheered by Toyota plant workers and dealers.

SENATE PASSES JOBS BILL: The Senate passed a $15 billion jobs bill Wednesday by a 70-28 vote, in which 13 Republicans joined with the Democrats, eight more than the five who also sided with the Democrats two days ago to block a GOP filibuster of the measure. The legislation, which includes tax breaks for small businesses for hiring and highway spending, now goes to the House, which could approve it quickly and sent it to President Obama for his signature. Immediately after the vote, Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid said he was preparing a package of jobless benefits, state aid and tax breaks that the Senate could take up next week. It's part of a strategy to pass smaller jobs bill that would avoid a single large price tag and keep Democrats' job-creating efforts in the news.

TRAINER DIES IN SEA WORLD ATTACK BY KILLER WHALE: An animal trainer at SeaWorld in Orlando, Florida, was killed Wednesday afternoon (February 24th) when one of the killer whales attacked her at Shamu Stadium and dragged her underwater, drowning her. The Orlando Sentinel cited witnesses as saying that the whale, named Tilikum, suddenly grabbed 40-year-old Dawn Brancheau by the arm as she was petting him, tossed her around in his mouth, and pulled her into the water as horrified tourists looked on. Tilikum has been involved in two previous deaths: he was one of three orcas blamed for the 1991 drowning of a trainer while he performed at since-closed Sealand of the Pacific in British Columbia; and the dead body of a naked man was found lying across Tilikum's back at SeaWorld Orlando in 1999. However, Chuck Tompkins, the corporate curator in charge of animal behavior for SeaWorld, told the Sentinel Tilikum would not be put down.

COLORADO SCHOOL GUNMAN HAD BEEN ACTING STRANGELY: The 32-year-old man accused of shooting two students at a Colorado middle school just three miles from the site of the Columbine High School massacre, had been increasingly erratic in the last few weeks, his father told AP, saying he'd yell at imaginary friends and complain that eating macaroni and cheese made too much noise. Police are trying to find out what led unemployed ranch hand Bruco Strong Eagle Eastwood to shoot the students in the parking lot at his old school on Tuesday (February 23rd), before he was tackled and stopped by a 6-foot-5 math teacher. His father, War Eagle Eastwood, said his son used to talk to himself, but that he'd gotten worse in the last month. Eastwood has an arrest record that includes menacing, assault, domestic violence and driving under the influence. One of the students who was shot has already been released from the hospital and the other is said to be doing well.

TODAY'S FYI:

MADOFF'S DAUGHTER-IN-LAW, GRANDCHILDREN CHANGING LAST NAME: The daughter-in-law of Bernard Madoff has gone to court to change her last name and that her two young children, who are the convicted multibillion-dollar Ponzi schemer's grandchildren, the New York Daily News reported yesterday (February 24th). Stephanie Madoff, who's married to Bernie Madoff's son Mark, wants her new last name and that of her children Audrey and Nicholas to be "Morgan." The court petition reads, regarding the youngest child, "It will substantially promote the infant's best interest to avoid additional humiliation, embarrassment, harassment and endangerment associated with the name 'Madoff' by changing his last name to 'Morgan.'"

• Bernie Madoff is serving a 150-year jail sentence.

GM ENDING ITS HUMMER BRAND: General Motors announced yesterday (February 24th) that it will be ending its Hummer brand after a deal to sell it to a Chinese company fell through. Reports said Chinese regulators had refused to approve the sale. GM will begin a wind-down of the Hummer brand immediately, while maintaining responsibility for warranties and sales and service. The news came one day after GM finalized the sale of Saab to Dutch automaker Spyker.

TOP PALIN AIDE AND ADVISER TO RESIGN: Megan Stapleton, a top aide and adviser to Sarah Palin who often acted as a spokesperson for the former Alaska governor and 2008 GOP vice presidential nominee, announced yesterday (February 24th) that she's resigning at the end of the month. Stapleton said she wants to spend more time with her young daughter, explaining, "Taking care of the governor was my priority for the last, I guess it's been almost 3 1/2 years, and now I just want to personally refocus and spend some time with my precious little one." Stapleton is a former TV reporter and anchor who was chosen by Palin to lead her communications team after she was elected governor in 2006. Stapleton said her time with Palin was an amazing experience because of the way she manages and operates, and said she'd gladly adviser her in the future if Palin sought her opinion.

MARYLAND TO RECOGNIZE OTHER STATES' GAY MARRIAGES: Maryland Attorney General Douglas Gansler said yesterday (February 24th) that his state will recognize gay marriages performed outside of Maryland, effective immediately. He said Maryland agencies should begin giving out-of-state gay couples all the rights they have been given in the states where such marriages are legal. Maryland law, however, defines marriage as being between a man and a woman, and the state itself has not approved gay marriage. AP cited legal scholars who said Gansler's opinion seems designed to bring legal challenges, and in fact the Democratic district attorney said he expects that such action will be brought quickly. But he believes his opinion provides a road map for gay couples to win in court.

TEEN GETS 15 YEARS FOR FACEBOOK-ASSISTED SEX BLACKMAIL: A Wisconsin 19-year-old was sentenced to 15 years in jail yesterday (February 24th) for using Facebook to blackmail dozens of his classmates into having sex. Anthony Stancl (STAN'-sihl), who pled no contest to two felonies, including repeated sexual assault of a child, apologized yesterday, saying he'd learned to understand what his victims went through. Stancl posed as a girl on Facebook and tricked more than 30 male classmates into sending him naked photos of themselves. Then he used the photos to blackmail them for sex.

SPORTS:

VANCOUVER WINTER OLYMPICS:

U.S. and Canadian Men's Hockey Teams Win, Advance to Semi-Finals: The U.S. and Canadian men's hockey teams both won their quarter-final games yesterday (February 24th) to advance to the semi-finals. The U.S. game against Switzerland was tied with no score until Zach Parise finally get a goal for the Americans a couple of minutes into the third period. Parise also scored an empty-net goal in the closing seconds of the game to get a 2-0 win for the U.S. The match-up between Canada and Russia, the two teams that many had thought would meet in the gold medal game, turned out to be a rout, with Canada winning 7-3. The U.S. will play Finland Friday afternoon (February 26th) in their semi-final match, while Canada will take on Slovakia in theirs.

Vonn Wipes Out in Giant Slalom, Mancuso 18th After Having to Restart: U.S. skier Lindsey Vonn wiped out during the giant slalom yesterday, crashing and slamming into the netting lining the course. The crash, in which Vonn broke her pinkie, was the second for her of these Olympics. She medaled in her other two races, taking a gold and a bronze, and has one final event, the slalom, on Friday. Vonn's crash didn't just hurt her, however. Teammate Julia Mancuso, the defending Olympic champion who ran right behind Vonn, was flagged to stop about half-way down the course because Vonn still hadn't been untangled from the netting, and it was considered dangerous. Mancuso had to return to the top, wait for another 13 skiers to go, and run again on a course that had deteriorated, and she came in 18th. Afterwards, a frustrated and angry Mancuso was seen crying. The second and deciding leg of the race was delayed until today because of thick fog.

• Although Mancuso didn't blame Vonn for what happened, there was already some tension between the two, after Mancuso told Sports Illustrated that the U.S. ski team was being hurt by a, quote, "popularity contest." She said, "People are having a hard time reaching their potential because it's such a struggle for attention. You come to meetings after races and it's like it's a bad day if Lindsey didn't do well." Vonn told Reuters she was "bummed out" by what Mancuso said.

U.S. Wins Speedskating Bronze after Koreans Disqualified: The U.S. women's 3,000-meter speedskating relay team won an unexpected bronze yesterday, moving up to the medal stand after first-place finisher South Korea was disqualified for one team member impeding a skater from another team during the race. China got the gold instead, Canada moved up to take silver, and the U.S. got the bronze.

Iran's First Female Skier Takes Part in Giant Slalom: Iran's first female Olympic skier made her debut in the giant slalom yesterday and said she was pleased, despite finishing 21.75 seconds behind the fastest time -- which is an eternity in skiing. Marjan Kalhor, who was her country's flag-bearer at the opening ceremony, wore a pink headscarf underneath her helmet, but was otherwise dressed just like all the other skiers. Before her event, she told Reuters that one of her goals was to, quote, "tell Muslim women that there is no limitation for them, even with hijab [headscarf] they can do whatever they want and they can get here like me."

MEDAL COUNT: The U.S. now has 28 medals overall -- 7 gold, 9 silver and 12 bronze. The U.S. is first in the overall medal count ahead of Germany, which has 24. Norway is third with 18. The U.S., Germany and Canada are tied for first place in gold medals with 7 each. Norway and Switzerland are tied for second with 6 each, and South Korea is third with 5.

(Headline News, FYI and Sports stories were compiled in part from reports by the Associated Press and Reuters.)

ON THE TUBE TODAY!!

CBS

• SURVIVOR: HEROES VS. VILLAINS - One of the game's most powerful women targets a worthy adversary and gets aggressive as she tries to oust an immediate threat.
• THE MENTALIST (repeat)
• CSI: CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATION (repeat)

NBC

• XXI WINTER OLYMPICS - 8 PM, Figure Skating concludes; women's free skate; Freestyle Skiers compete for the Gold.

FOX

• AMERICAN IDOL - Four contestants are eliminated; Kris Allen and Allison Iraheta are slated to perform.
• KITCHEN NIGHTMARES - A couple whose marriage is in ruins need chef Ramsay's help to save their Cuban restaurant in Brooklyn.

ABC

• THE DEEP END - Malcolm and Addy try to find a way around a dishonest insurance company; Cliff tries to find a way to get back into Susan's life.
• GREY'S ANATOMY (repeat)
• PRIVATE PRACTICE (repeat)

CW

• THE VAMPIRE DIARIES (repeat)
• SUPERNATURAL (repeat)

FX

• ARCHER - TBA

USA

• BURN NOTICE - Fiona gets more than she bargained for when she gets involved with a paranoid kidnapper; Michael's plan to stop a black operative has deeper consequences.

DAY TIME TALK SHOW

THE ELLEN DEGENERES SHOW - Felicity Huffman
THE OPRAH WINFREY SHOW - Kirstie Alley: Inside her big, big life
THE VIEW - Giuliana Rancic, Bill Rancic, Dr. Jamie Grifo

LATE NIGHT TALK SHOWS

THE LATE SHOW WITH DAVID LETTERMAN (CBS) - (repeat)
THE TONIGHT SHOW WITH JAY LENO (NBC) - Pre-empted for Olympics coverage
JIMMY KIMMEL LIVE (ABC) - Gordon Ramsay, Ginnifer Goodwin, VV Brown
THE LATE LATE SHOW WITH CRAIG FERGUSON (CBS) - Seann William Scott, Jackie Collins
LATE NIGHT WITH JIMMY FALLON (NBC) - Pre-empted for Olympics coverage
LAST CALL WITH CARSON DALY (NBC) - Pre-empted for Olympics coverage
THE DAILY SHOW WITH JON STEWART (COMEDY CENTRAL) - TBA
THE COLBERT REPORT (COMEDY CENTRAL) - Shani David, Seth Wescott
LOPEZ TONIGHT - (repeat)

OFF BEAT BRIEFS

TEEN ARRESTED FOR WEARING CLOWN MASK: A teen from Tampa was arrested on Tuesday for wearing a clown mask and wig on the street. The 19-year-old man was charged with wearing a mask or hood on a public road over the age of 16 and resisting arrest without violence. According to The St. Petersburg Times, a deputy spotted the teen walking down the road with two other people. The group fled after being spotted, but were later located. The teen was released from the Hillsborough County Jail on a $750 bond. (AP)

BIKINI BARISTA CHARGED WITH INDECENCY: A 19-year-old barista from Tacoma, WA was charged of unlawful exposure after wearing a thong bottom and X-shaped pasties over her nipples. The Bikini Bottoms espresso stand employee received a misdemeanor charge by prosecutors on Tuesday after a passer-by complained about seeing a topless woman. According to The News Tribune of Tacoma, the woman went to the back of the stand to remove her pasties and put on a bikini top when a sheriff's deputy went to investigate. The deputy confiscated the pasties as evidence. (AP)

AIRLINE WILL OFFER FEMALE-ONLY BATHROOMS: All Nippon Airways will be designating one restroom on most international flights female-only, starting next month. According to the airline, this is a response to the numerous requests for this service. The restroom will be located in the rear of the plane and will be available to women sitting in all classes. The demand for the female-only bathroom was especially high among passengers who take long flights. Most women do not like sharing a restroom with men because they sometimes leave the seats up. Men will only be allowed to use this lavatory in an emergency. Toilet etiquette appears to be an important of All Nippon Airways policy. (Reuters)

THIEVES OVERHEARD BY MISDIALING 9-1-1: Daytona Beach Police arrested two teens after dispatchers overheard a cell phone conversation mid-heist. The police were made aware of the situation when one of the teen's cell phones accidentally dialed 9-1-1. 911 dispatchers overheard 19-year-old Stephanie Vargas and a 13-year-old boy trying to steal items from a vehicle parked outside of a Daytona nightclub. According to police spokesman Jimmie Flynt, the young boy was already inside the vehicle when the officers arrived. Both of the teens admitted to the robbery, and were charged with burglary to a conveyance. It's unclear how the number got dialed. (AP)

DID YOU KNOW?

FRIDGE-CLEANING ISN'T A PRIORITY: In Whirlpool's 2005 refrigerator habits survey of 2,571 consumers, 33 percent said they don't spend any time cleaning the refrigerator before grocery shopping. In order to make room for items just purchased, 27 percent reported shoving everything in and not worrying about organization.

NEW SCALE HAS NO NUMBERS: A news scale made by Voluptuart doesn't have any numbers, but rather words like "hot," "ravishing," and "cute" that are meant to make you feel good about yourself. Check it out: http://tinyurl.com/yfgkzc3

IS PLANNING A VACATION BETTER THAN ACTUALLY GOING? A new Dutch study shows that one of the biggest happiness boosts of a vacation comes from the simple act of planning your vacation. The HuffingtonPost.com quotes researchers as having said, "We examined whether vacationers differ in happiness, compared to those not going on holiday, and if a holiday trip boosts post-trip happiness. These questions were addressed in a pre-test/post-test design study among 1,530 Dutch individuals. 974 vacationers answered questions about their happiness before and after a holiday trip. Vacationers reported a higher degree of pre-trip happiness, compared to non-vacationers, possibly because they are anticipating their holiday. Only a very relaxed holiday trip boosts vacationers' happiness further after return. Generally, there is no difference between vacationers' and non-vacationers' post-trip happiness."

ARE YOU 'FACE-BLIND'? If you can't remember someone's name -- you may be "face blind." One to two percent of the population suffers from this condition, called prosopagnosia, which adds an extra awkwardness to social situations but does not affect intelligence or general memory. Fox News reports that some of us are just better at recognizing faces than others, whether in these extreme cases or for the rest of us who fall somewhere in between. New research suggests that we may have evolved the ability to say "hey, I've seen you before" separately from how well we remember names, telephone numbers and other things that do not come equipped with eyes and mouth. Jeremy Wilmer, a psychologist at Wellesley College in Mass., challenged 578 women to memorize photographs of several faces and to then pick the same faces out of increasingly difficult lineups. Some could point to the correct face in a crowd of strangers nearly a hundred percent of the time; others did no better than chance. In either case, though, the ability to spot a familiar face did not strongly predict how well they could memorize and recognize abstract pictures or words.

HOW INSTANT MESSAGING CAN SAVE YOUR RELATIONSHIP (HuffingtonPost.com)

• 1. You can both say what you want without the argument getting out of control.
• 2. It forces you to stay on the subject.
• 3. If one of you is better at arguing and can shout the other down, then you are on much more of an even playing field on iChat.
• 4. Both of you can say what you want and the other person can read the other person's perspective and there is no mistaking what you hear as you are forced to read exactly what the other person writes.
• 5. Any anger that you feel can be directed towards the keys and you can bash them as hard as you want, rather than being too aggressive to the other person.
• 6. The argument does not physically escalate and get out of control.
• 7. The person who has the loudest voice is not King!
• 8. You can much more easily see an impasse, change your tone and build a bridge.

IMPOSSIBLE QUESTION

Who are the mascots for the 2010 Winter Olympic Games?

A: Miga, Quatchi and Sumi are all Inspired by Pacific Coast Indian legends.

Miga is a young sea bear who is part killer whale and part bear who lives in the ocean out past Vancouver Island. Quatchi is more famously known worldwide as Sasquatch or Bigfoot, and has been the subject of hundreds of sightings for centuries throughout the Pacific Northwest. Sumi is part orca whale, part phoenix and part bear, considered a "guardian spirit" by Pacific Northwest Indian tribes.

Meteorological Smackdown Over Storm Hitting the Northeast Today

The major storm that's supposed to hit the Northeast today (February 25th), set to dump a foot of snow or more in some areas along with strong winds, has led to a meteorological smackdown, with weathermen going mano-a-mano over their forecasts. The target of criticism is Accuweather, which on Tuesday was calling the coming storm "a monster," "powerful storm of historical proportions" and "hurricane-like," dubbing it a "snowicane." That drew a stern rebuke from National Weather Service meteorologist Craig Evango, who said, "It's almost inciting the public, inciting panic," and the Weather Channel called the hurricane talk, quote, "bad meteorology." But Accuweather senior meteorologist and director of forecasting operations Ken Reeves called the criticism "unfounded," and said there is nothing wrong in using language that gets people's attention when the situation calls for it.

Another Miss California Contestant Drawing Fire Over Gay Marriage Opposition

Move over Carrie Prejean. There's a new Miss California USA contestant ready to wear the anti-gay marriage beauty queen crown. Twenty-three-year-old Miss Beverly Hills Lauren Ashley recently said on Fox News and other media outlets that gay marriage goes against God and the Bible. She quoted from the Bible, saying, "In Leviticus it says, 'If man lies with mankind as he would lie with a woman, both of them have committed an abomination. They shall surely be put to death and their blood shall be upon them.' The Bible is pretty black and white." That drew outrage from Beverly Hills Mayor Nancy Krasne, who said Ashley doesn't live in Beverly Hills or represent the city in any way. She said her city, quote, "has a long history of tolerance and respect." It's true that Ashley is from Pasadena, not Beverly Hills. Apparently contestants get to choose what area they want to represent, and Ashley chose the famous enclave.

KFLAG COUNTRY MUSIC UPDATE

Rascal Flatts have accomplished a lot in their 10 years on the music scene, not the least of which is expanding the boundaries for what is considered country music these days. More and more country acts are hearing their songs played on pop radio, and as Jay DeMarcus tells us, they have the Flatts guys to thank for it. "Not to sound boastful or bragadocious, but I think there was a movement that was started with us and Keith Urban and a few other people that opened the door that paved the way for country to crossover a little more easily with the pop-flavored country music that we know today, so I'm proud of the fact that we've brought fans over to country music that would normally not have listened to country before, and am so proud and thrilled to see the success that someone like Taylor is having, and am proud to be a small part of her success as well, you know, with her being on the road with us."

Jay says there was a real need for today's more modern country music in the pop format. "In my view, I think that country music has sort of taken the place of what we all considered to be Top 40 pop music 20 years ago, 25 years ago, so I think there's a void there that country music has been able to fill, and artists like Taylor and Keith and Lady A and people like that are filling those voids."

• The group's appearance on the CBS drama CSI is set to air on March 4th. The episode is called "Unshockable," an ode to Rascal Flatts' current hit, "Unstoppable."
• The band's new video for "Unstoppable" was created with footage pulled from the show. To watch the clip, log onto rascalflatts.com.

CHECK IT OUT

• To watch the new video, click here: http://rascalflatts.com/splash

James Otto is getting ready to become a dad. The singer and his wife, Amy, will welcome their first child in August.

• James said, "Amy and I are so excited and feel so blessed. I am overwhelmed with joy at the idea of becoming a father! This is truly going to be an amazing, life-altering experience."
• In addition to Dad, the baby will have a famous aunt and uncle. Amy's sister is CMT personality Allison DeMarcus, who is married to Jay DeMarcus of Rascal Flatts.
• Jame's new single, "Groovy Little Summer Song," will be making its way to radio soon.
• The singer plans to release a new album later this year.

FAST FACTS

• James' last album, Sunset Man, was released in 2008.
• It was co-produced by John Rich and Jay DeMarcus.
• It produced the Number One hit, "Just Got Started Lovin' You," which was also named Billboard's top country single of 2008.

Tim McGraw has been fielding questions about a potential career in politics since he first mentioned having an interest in running for public office a couple of years ago. For the record, Tim tells us he has no plans to add politician to his resume. "Politics, to me, is something that I would never go do just to say I've done it, but if somewhere down the line there's something that I feel like I can step into and make a difference and do some good, then I think it's just a matter of if the time lines up with the cause and the reason in my life, then it would be something that I would be interested in, but it's not something I'm gonna go pursue."

Tim says he does, however, feel a sense of responsibility to give back to his community."I've been very lucky and fortunate and been able to really make something out of my life from where I came from, and I feel like it's because of where I live and the place that I grew up and the country that I live in that I'm able to do that, so I feel like that you are obligated to a certain extent to try to help and do what you can whether it be in politics or not."

• Tim continues on his Southern Voice tour with special guests Lady Antebellum and The Lost Trailers. They play in Columbia, Missouri on Thursday (February 25th), Lexington, Kentucky on Friday (February 26th) and Grand Rapids, Michigan on Saturday (February 27th).
• Tim is also in the midst of filming his next movie, Love Don't Let Me Down, with Gwyneth Paltrow. The film has been shooting in Nashville.

Builders will break ground on The Darryl Worley Cancer Treatment Center in the singer's hometown of Savannah, Tennessee on March 3rd. This has been Darryl's dream since 2005 when he and representatives of Hardin Medical Center and Hardin County Community and Healthcare Foundation joined forces to make this Center a reality. The facility will offer both radiation and chemotherapy treatment for local cancer patients so they don't have to make the long drive to other treatment centers.

• Darryl said, "We have a really high cancer rate in our general area and all of our lives have been affected by the dreaded disease, so there is a lot of passion in this for everyone.
• Darryl has personal experience with cancer, having lost both of his grandfathers and one of his aunts to the disease. He said, "I know what it cost when they had to go out of town for treatment. I don't want anyone else having to make those trips, adding to what they are already going through."
• The Darryl Worley Cancer Treatment Center will cost a maximum price of $2 million for construction of the building. It is expected to be completed by early 2011.
• The Hardin County Community and Healthcare Foundation, Inc. has taken on a mission of raising the construction costs, already raising over $1.6 million to date through donations and pledges.
• Of the money already raised, the singer's own charity, The Darryl Worley Foundation, has made a $600,000 donation to the cause.

The Country Music Association will induct Jimmy Dean, Ferlin Husky, Billy Sherrill, and Don Williams into the Country Music Hall of Fame later this year. Due to a tie in the voting, both Jimmy and Ferlin will be inducted in the "Veterans Era Artist" category. Don will be inducted in the "Modern Era Artist" category. Billy will be included in the "Non-Performer" category.

• The four will increase membership in the coveted Country Music Hall of Fame from 108 to 112 inductees.
• "Jimmy said, "I thought I was already in there. Seriously, it brought a huge grin to my face. I am honored."
• An emotional Ferlin said, "I'd like to thank my Lord Jesus Christ for dying for me, saving my soul, and bringing me into the world as a country boy. And also, for giving me the talent to sing, entertain, and help convert millions around the world to Country Music. I'm still a country boy and proud of it. In the words of my close friend, the late Stringbean, 'I sure am glad I'm me!'"
• Billy said, "Anything I have ever accomplished would have been totally impossible without the help and support of the greatest songwriters and musicians in the world, and of course what I stole from Owen Bradley."
• Don said, "I feel extremely honored and overwhelmed with this news. It is unbelievable that CMA thought about me in this manner."

FAST FACT

• CMA created the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1961 to recognize noteworthy individuals for their outstanding contributions to the format with Country Music's highest honor.

Keith Urban and Nicole Kidman were in Vancouver on Monday (February 22nd) to watch the ice dancing competition at the Olympics. Keith was spotted trying to get a close up view of the action on the ice by wearing what TMZ.com described as "Eyes Wide Shut party moose binoculars."

Click here to see a picture of Keith with his binoculars: http://www.tmz.com/2010/02/23/keith-urban-mooseknuckles-it/

Martina McBride fans got a big surprise last weekend during her Shine All Night tour stop in Detroit, Michigan when she was joined on stage by local resident Kid Rock. The two performed his hits "Picture" and "All Summer Long."

Check out their performance here: http://www.youtube.com/martinamcbride#/c/AC36F987F536B89E/0/9GaKgHUC-aA

Actress Melissa Peterman will release her very first comedy album on Nashville-based Big Machine Records this spring. Melissa co-starred on the sitcom Reba, and she currently hosts CMT's show, The Singing Bee. Melissa's good friend Reba McEntire is signed to Big Machine sister label, The Valory Music Company.

Steel Magnolia will appear on the CBS Early Show on Saturday (February 27th). They will treat viewers to an acoustic performance of their current hit single, "Keep On Lovin' You," which is also featured on the Valentine's Day movie soundtrack. The Early Show airs at 7 a.m. ET.

COUNTRY TRIVIA

Q. What is LeAnn Rimes' real first name?
A. Margaret

COUNTRY ON THE TUBE TODAY!

PREMIERE: SARAH BUXTON/GAC 10:00AM, 5:30PM (ET)

SUPERSTAR SESSIONS: SUGARLAND/GAC 12:00PM (ET)

MASTER SERIES/GAC 8:00PM (ET)
Dolly Parton

THE COLLECTION: TOBY KEITH/GAC 9:00PM (ET)

INTRODUCING: ZAC BROWN BAND/GAC 10:00PM (ET)

ON THIS DAY IN COUNTRY!

• George Strait earned a Number One country single in Billboard with "It Just Comes Natural" in 2007.
• Martina McBride performed at Salt Lake City's Olympics Medals Park on closing night of the 2002 Winter Olympics.
• Keith Urban scored his first Number One single with "But for the Grace of God" in 2001.
• The Dixie Chicks won their first Grammys for Best Country Vocal Group and Best Country Album in 1999.
• Reba McEntire won her first Grammy for "Whoever's in New England" in 1987.
• Sawyer Brown won $100,000 as the big winners on Star Search in 1984.
• Dolly Parton won two Grammys for "9 to 5" -- best country song and best country female vocal performance, in 1982.
• Johnny Cash recorded his live album, Johnny Cash at San Quentin, in 1969.

CELEBRITY GOSSIP!!!

SHILOH GETS A HAIRCUT: Shiloh has short hair! Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie's three-year-old daughter debuted what US Weekly called a "stylish, cropped new haircut" in Paris on Tuesday (February 23rd). Pitt took Shiloh and older sister Zahara shopping in the French city while mom Angelina filmed scenes for The Tourist. Check out the 'do: http://tinyurl.com/yh7z4kz

GARY BUSEY'S WIFE GIVES BIRTH: Gary Busey is a father again. The 65-year-old actor's 40-year-old wife, Steffanie Sampson, gave birth to a baby boy named Luke on Tuesday (February 23rd). The couple said in a statement, "This feels like a dream. We feel so blessed and are overwhelmed with happiness at Luke's arrival." Busey has a 38-year-old son with his ex-wife.

CHERYL COLE SPLITS FROM HUSBAND: British singer and TV star Cheryl Cole is splitting from her soccer star husband Ashley Cole. In the wake of rumors surrounding Ashley's supposed infidelity, Cole released a statement on Tuesday (February 23rd) saying, "Cheryl Cole is separating from her husband Ashley Cole. Cheryl asks the media to respect her privacy during this difficult time." It's been rumored that the X Factor star has been seeing Dancing With the Stars pro Derek Hough.

POLICE HOPEFUL ANDREW KOENIG IS ALIVE: Police searching for the former Growing Pains actor Andrew Koenig believe he is still alive. Authorities told TMZ.com that they've been inundated with sightings of the actor since he was reported missing on Valentine's Day. RadarOnline.com reported that a press release issued Tuesday by Canadian authorities revealed that police had tracked Andrew's cell phone and banking records and that has led them to the belief that Andrew is in the Vancouver area.

JASON PRIESTLEY REPORTEDLY BURGLARIZED: Jason Priestley's Los Angeles home was allegedly burglarized on Monday (February 22nd) night. TMZ.com reports that multiple homes in the Toluca Lake area where the former 90210 star lives were hit. One suspect is reportedly in custody.

CHARLIE SHEEN CHECKS INTO REHAB

Charlie Sheen has checked into rehab. The actor's treatment comes a week after his wife checked into rehab and nearly two months after a drunken scuffle between the two ended in Sheen's arrest.

Sheen's publicist released a statement on Tuesday (February 23rd) that read, "As a preventative measure, Charlie Sheen has entered a rehabilitation facility. He will take some time off his series Two and a Half Men. He has asked that his privacy be honored. No further statements are planned."

• Sources connected with Two and a Half Men told TMZ.com that staff on the show are being told Charlie's treatment is a partnership with his wife's treatment. Other insiders told TMZ that there is concern that Charlie could have his bail revoked in Colorado as one of the terms is that he not consume drugs or alcohol.
• TMZ.com reports that Charlie told the show's producers that he would be back to work in two weeks.
• Meanwhile, RadarOnline.com recently reported that those around Charlie had been pressuring him to enter rehab for a while, but supposedly the actor was in denial about his problems.

BROOKE MUELLER PLANNING LAWSUIT; HAS KIDS IN REHAB

Sheen's wife Brooke Mueller is reportedly planning a lawsuit against the Malibu rehab facility she was forced to leave after an alleged privacy breach. Brooke checked out of The Canyon treatment center on Sunday (February 21st) night after someone from the facility leaked Brooke's admission form to the media, which contained very personal information about her substance abuse.

Her lawyer told TMZ.com that he will sue the facility and plans "to have the individual responsible for leaking the information arrested."

• In other Brooke news, TMZ.com reported on Tuesday that she currently has the couple's two children at the rehab facility where she is staying. Sources claim that Mueller's rehab facility allows children, and Brooke's kids are there with her nannies and a counselor.

HOLLYWOOD NEWS

PRODUCTION RESUMING ON '24': Kiefer Sutherland is returning to the set of 24 on March 1st. 20th Century Fox confirmed that the actor has been cleared by physicians to return to work on the show following reported surgery on a cyst near his kidney.

ANGELINA JOLIE TO PLAY LEAD IN PATRICIA CORNWELL ADAPTATION: Angelina Jolie will reportedly play the character of Kay Scarpetta in the adaptation of Patricia Cornwell's mystery novels. LA Times reported that the screenplay is set at a time when the character is "charting her course, and trying to break the glass ceiling." 53-year-old Cornwell added, "I can understand why the studio doesn't want to launch her as someone's who's my age."

BRUCE WILLIS SAID THERE MAY BE ANOTHER 'DIE HARD': Bruce Willis is on board for a fifth installment in the Die Hard franchise. Starpulse.com quotes the actor as having said, "I think we're going to do a Die Hard 5 next year. I would hire Len Wiseman right now (to direct)." As for the plot -- Willis won't be too involved. He said, "It's got to go worldwide. That would be my contribution to it."

MATT LAUER VOICING 'CURIOUS GEORGE' CHARACTER: Matt Lauer is getting animated for the upcoming Curious George movie. The Today show anchor is lending his voice to Curious George 2: Follow That Monkey, in which he plays the TV anchor Hark Hanson. He said of the project, "I just think it's a kick. I mean, we talk so much on my show about entertainment and pop culture and negative influences on children, and here you have a chance to be part of something that's just good wholesome family fun that my kids already have a history with."

MICHAEL SHEEN TO GUEST STAR ON '30 ROCK': Michael Sheen will guest star on 30 Rock as a love interest for Tina Fey's Liz Lemon. The Frost/Nixon star told Starpulse.com, "I did a couple of episodes of 30 Rock that'll be out soon. I'm doing a bit of 30 Rock which is great." He added, "I was with Tina and all my stuff was with Tina. She asked me if I would do these couple of episodes. Her problems with men are not about to stop. I can tell you that now."

KEVIN JAMES TO STAR OPPOSITE VINCE VAUGHN: Kevin James will star as Vince Vaughn's best friend in a new comedy directed by Ron Howard. Vaughn stars in the untitled flick as a man who learns that his best friend's wife is cheating and "must navigate treacherous waters to decide what do with that knowledge."

IT'S ALL ABOUT SONG CHOICE ON 'AMERICAN IDOL'

The Top 12 girls performed live last night on American Idol. Although all of the judges agreed that they were a talented bunch, their performances came down to the song choice. The show kicked off with Paige Miles, who was told by Simon that she is the best singer in the competition. However, Miles was unable to really show off her skills because she picked the wrong song. The judges were hard on Lacey Brown and Haeley Vaughn, who both failed to show ''who they were'' through their songs. The judges also said that many of the contestants lacked star power. Among the contestants who were commended for having a unique voice and style were Lilly Scott and Crystal Bowersox. None of the Top 12 girls managed to truly impress the judges on last night's episode.

TIGER WOODS APOLOGIZES TO PARENTS AT KIDS' PRE-SCHOOL

Tiger Woods has offered yet another apology in the wake of his sex scandal, this time to the parents of his 2-year-old daughter Sam's pre-school classmates. The golfer issued a letter on Monday, blaming the paparazzi for creating an "inconvenience" around the Premier Academy in Windermere, Florida, co-signing it with his wife, Elin Nordegren. According to TMZ.com, the letter reads: "Dear Premier Academy parents, We would like to share our appreciation for your support over the past several months and offer our personal apology for any inconvenience you are experiencing due to the increased media scrutiny surrounding our children. We truly understand how frustrating it can be.

• "We hope that the paparazzi will find something better to do with their time in the near future. In the meantime, it is our goal to keep life as normal as possible for our children. We are sure that as parents you can appreciate that. For Sam, that normalcy means attending the school that she enjoys so much.
• "Again, we truly appreciate the support from the entire Premier Academy family. Kind regards, Elin and Tiger Woods."

CHECK IT OUT

How to accept an apology: http://www.wikihow.com/Accept-an-Apology

LINDSAY 'SURPRISED' BY LESBIAN RELATIONSHIP; STILL IN LOVE WITH SAM

Lindsay Lohan is continuing to make her personal life public news, this time telling London's The Sun about her lesbian lover Samantha Ronson. Of her relationship with the 32-year-old DJ, Lohan said, "I never really thought about women before, it kind of just happened with Samantha. It surprised me."

The 23-year-old continued, "If I wasn't with Samantha, I would probably be with a boy next. She's the only woman I've been attracted to. We love each other. We might reconcile the relationship, maybe."

• A day after blaming her father for her drug problems -- Lohan claimed the demise of her relationship with Samantha was the fault of Ronson's family. She said, "Her family is very involved in her relationships and that was difficult . . . All the fighting stuff was just because all her friends had got involved and made me an outcast, which wasn't fair to Samantha. I think it was a jealousy thing in terms of her becoming more famous than the rest of them."

CHECK IT OUT: Signs your girlfriend is bisexual: http://tinyurl.com/2sktzo

DID ROB PATTINSON ADMIT HE'S DATING KRISTEN STEWART?

After a short break, the Rob Pattinson-Kristen Stewart relationship rumors are back in full effect. The Twilight stars both attended last Sunday's (February 21st) BAFTA Awards, where The Sun claims Pattinson admitted to dating his co-star.

Rob told the paper, "It is extremely difficult but we are together, yes."

• He added, "We can't arrive at the same time because of the fans. It goes crazy. This was supposed to be a public appearance as a couple but it's impossible. We are here together and it's a public event but it's not easy. We have to do all this stuff to avoid attention."

INVESTIGATION REVEALS QUOTE MAY HAVE BEEN OUT OF CONTEXT

Gossip Cop, however, spoke to the reporter in question and it appears Pattinson's statement wasn't necessarily an admission of love.

At the event, while Rob was several feet away from Kristen, the reporter asked, "Is this a public appearance together?" -- to which Pattinson replied, "We are together."

• When Gossip Cop pressed him on whether Pattinson's response meant he and Stewart were a couple, the reporter said, "That's my assumption from what he said."

ANDREW GARCIA AND CRYSTAL BOWERSOX ARE EARLY FAVORITES ON 'AMERICAN IDOL'

Andrew Garcia is proving to be the early favorite on American Idol. According to a poll conducted by AOL Television, the guitar-playing 24-year-old won a leading 26.2 percent of votes, followed closely by young mom Crystal Bowersox with 25.2 percent.

According to Simon Cowell, it's more likely that Bowersox would edge out Garcia for the victory. He recently told reporters, "I would say there is definitely a better chance of a girl winning the show this year. You want somebody who represents what's going on at the moment. I'd love to find a Taylor Swift, somebody whose relevant rather than just a contest winner."

Back to the poll -- new father Michael "Big Mike" Lynche was third favorite -- however Lynche was also voted the most overhyped.

• Meanwhile the majority of fans declared that new judge Ellen DeGeneres was doing an "awesome" job on the show, even though some still miss Paula Abdul. 58 percent of respondents gave Ellen a favorable review while 46 percent said things aren't the same without Paula. Still, 41 percent said they did not miss the quirky Abdul, and 12 percent appeared not to have realized she has left.
• Ashley Rodriguez was voted this season's most likely dark horse at 28.5 percent, followed by quirky Siobhan Magnus (21 percent), last-minute finalist Tim Urban (20.1 percent), Lacey Brown (15.8 percent) and John Park (14.5 percent).
• 57,682 people voted in the poll.

CHRIS GOLIGHTLY HOLDS PRESS CONFERENCE; CLAIMS CONTRACT ISSUE IS 'MISUNDERSTANDING'

Ousted American Idol contestant Chris Golightly held a (sparsely-attended) press conference on Tuesday (February 23rd) to address reports that he was kicked off the show because he already had a record contract in place.

The singer told reporters, "There's a lot of controversy going on sayin that, um, I signed a contract in May. Yes, that is true I did sign it in May of 2009 and yet, I was released of June 2009 so because it did not work out with the band that I was in."

He added that he wants to get back on the show: "I would really love the opportunity to, ya know, be reinstated back on to American Idol because I know that this is a shot I rightfully earned."

• Golightly pleaded with the public to write letters and call Fox and American Idol on his behalf, demanding he be placed back in the competition. The Los Angeles Times also reported that he is shopping around an autobiography.
• Despite Golightly's version of the contract story, PerezHilton.com reported that sources who viewed the document say Chris signed an exclusive, two-year commitment with Dream Projects Entertainment, making him ineligible for the show.

CHECK IT OUT: American Idol controversies: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_American_Idol_controversies

PAULA ABDUL REPORTEDLY LANDS TALK SHOW ON OPRAH NETWORK

Paula Abdul is reportedly taping a pilot for a talk show that would air on Oprah Winfrey's new network, OWN. The National Enquirer reported that the format will be "Oprah-inspired" -- with celebrity guests and real people telling inspirational stories.

When asked if the hosting gig would conflict with potentially rejoining Simon Cowell on The X Factor, Paula supposedly replied, "Of course not. If Ellen DeGeneres can do it . . . so can I!"

• The tabloid also claims that Lifetime's Drop Dead Diva -- on which she appeared in a cameo role last season -- wants her back in a recurring role.
• GossipCop.com claims that there's no truth to the story and it's just a rumor.

BRISTOL PALIN TO GUEST STAR ON 'SECRET LIFE OF THE AMERICAN TEENAGER'

Bristol Palin will guest star on an upcoming episode of The Secret Life of the American Teenager, an ABC Family show that deals with -- teen pregnancy. Bristol, who has a one-year-old son, will be playing herself.

Sarah Palin's 19-year-old daughter said in a statement, "I am thrilled to be on this show and to be a part of a program that educates teens and young adults about the consequences of teen pregnancy." The episode is set to air this summer during the show's third season.

• Executive producer Brenda Hampton commented on the casting, saying, "Bristol Palin is the most famous teenage mother in America. I think she will bring additional attention to the issues facing teen parents that we've been exploring for a couple of seasons now."

'JERSEY SHORE' FIGHT VICTIM LOSES BID TO HAVE DVD BLOCKED

A man who was punched by Jersey Shore's Ronnie Magro on the MTV show has lost his bid to block the program's DVD release. The New York Daily News reports that Stephen Izzo argued that Ronnie shouldn't be allowed to profit from footage of the September 4th fight or the subsequent episode during which Magro brags about the beating.

New Jersey Superior Court Judge Joseph Foster said Izzo "failed to demonstrate any financial or irreparable harm" that would be caused by the release of the DVD.

• On the show, Izzo's face was blurred by producers but he argued, "Everybody knew it was me. My tattoos are clear."

CHECK IT OUT: How to look like Snooki! http://tinyurl.com/yh3d2vz

HEADLINE NEWS!!

Wednesday, February 24, 2010

TOYOTA: RECALLS MAY 'NOT TOTALLY' SOLVE ACCELERATION PROBLEMS: Toyota's American sales chief admitted Tuesday (February 23rd) that the company's massive recall may, quote, "not totally" solve the sudden acceleration problems. Speaking before the House Energy and Commerce Committee, James Lentz repeatedly apologized for the safety defects that led to the recalls of 8.5 million Toyota vehicles, but said the fixes being made may not take care of the entire problem. Some lawmakers questioned Toyota's insistence that the problem is mechanical, caused by floor mats and pedals that stick, not electronic. Committee members also heard emotional testimony from a Tennessee woman who survived when her Lexus suddenly accelerated up to 100 miles per hour in a 2006 incident. Neither braking nor shifting into neutral stopped it until, she said, "After six miles, God intervened," and the car slowed, allowing her to pull off the road and turn off the engine. She said Toyota took a long time to respond to her complaint and was dismissive, declaring, "Shame on you, Toyota, for being so greedy." Toyota president Akio Toyoda, the grandson of the company's founder, will speak before Congress today.

CBO SAYS STIMULUS CREATED UP TO 2.1 MILLION JOBS: The nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office said yesterday (February 23rd) that last year's economic stimulus created between one million and 2.1 million jobs by the end of 2009. The report also said the $862 billion stimulus added between 1.5 to 3.5 percent points to the growth of the economy in 2009. The CBO projected that the stimulus will have an even greater impact this year, lowering the unemployment rate by 0.7 to 1.8 percentage points and boosting gross domestic product by 1.4 to 4 percentage point. The report said the most efficient parts of the stimulus include infrastructure projects and more generous unemployment benefits, while the first-time homebuyer tax credit isn't a very efficient use of stimulus money.

CHENEY SUFFERS MILD HEART ATTACK: Doctors have discovered that former Vice President Dick Cheney suffered a mild heart attack, with lab results revealing evidence of it after he went to the hospital with chest pains on Monday (February 22nd). The heart attack is his fifth, with the first one striking when he was just 37. Aides said yesterday (February 23rd) that the 69-year-old Cheney was feeling fine, and was likely to be sent home within a day or two. Cheney had bypass surgery in 1988, and two later angioplasties to clear blocked arteries. He also had a special pacemaker implanted in 2001.

MCCHRYSTAL APOLOGIZES ON TV TO AFGHANS FOR STRIKE THAT KILLED CIVILIANS: General Stanley McChrystal, the commander of U.S. and NATO forces in Afghanistan, apologized on national TV in that country yesterday (February 23rd) to Afghans for the death of as least 21 civilians in an airstrike two days earlier. In a video translated into the Dari and Pashto languages, McChrystal said, "I pledge to strengthen our efforts to regain your trust to build a brighter future for all Afghans. I have instituted a thorough investigation to prevent this from happening again."

• Meanwhile, two U.S. Marine battalions and accompanying Afghan troops pushing from the north and south into the insurgent stronghold of Marjah finally managed to link up on the 10th day of fighting. This creates a direct route across the town that allows convoys to supply ammunition and reinforcements.

WIDOW OF IRS WORKER SUES WIFE OF AUSTIN SUICIDE PILOT: The widow of Vernon Hunter, the IRS worker killed when a man who was filled with rage and anger against the tax agency crashed his single-engine plane into the IRS office in Austin last week, is suing the pilot's widow. Valerie Hunter's lawsuit is seeking to determine if Joseph Stack left behind insurance or other assets. The lawsuit also says Sheryl Stack should have warned others about her husband.

TODAY'S FYI:

WALL STREET BONUSES UP 17 PERCENT IN 2009: Wall Street bonuses increased 17 percent in 2009 to $20.3 billion, reflecting the record profits made, including by many of the investment banks that were bailed out by the federal government in the fall of 2008. In fact, the bonuses probably are lower than they would have been if not for the widespread public anger at Wall Street. Between 2005 and 2007, the bonuses averaged $31 million. Wall Street firms gave out $17.4 million in bonuses in 2008 despite having one of its worst years as the economic system was brought to the brink of collapse. Chuck Collins of the liberal Institute for Policy Studies told AP of the 2009 bonuses, "It's exposing a deep rift in American society. This isn't the rising tide lifting all boats. This is the rising tide lifting a few yachts, while other people's boats sink further underwater."

TWO STUDENTS SHOT AT COLORADO SCHOOL NEAR COLUMBINE: Two students were shot Tuesday afternoon (February 23rd) at a Littleton, Colorado, middle school that's just three miles from Columbine High School, site of the 1999 massacre in which Dylan Klebold and Eric Harris killed 12 fellow students and one teacher before killing themselves. In yesterday's attack outside Deer Creek Middle School, the one male and one female students were shot by a man who asked them if they were students at the school and then opened fire with a high-powered rifle when they said yes. A teacher tackled the 32-year-old suspect as he was trying to reload, and held him until police arrived. Police said the man doesn't appear to have any connection to the school, and they don't yet have a motive. The two shooting victims are expected to survive.

NAVY TO ALLOW WOMEN TO SERVE ON SUBMARINES: Defense Secretary Robert Gates has notified Congress that the U.S. Navy will be ending a ban on women serving on board submarines. The change was recommended by the chief of naval operations and the secretary of the Navy, as well as Gates, and there was no opposition among Navy leaders. An approach under which women will be phased in is being considered, with officers -- who already have separate living quarters -- the first to include women, and then crews after, with women sharing quarters. Women began to be allowed on surface ships in 1993, but limited privacy and the cost of reconfiguring quarters had previously been cited to keep the ban on them serving on subs.

ROMNEY ENDORSES MCCAIN FOR RE-ELECTION: Former Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney yesterday (February 23rd) endorsed John McCain, his 2008 rival for the Republican presidential nomination, for re-election to the Senate this fall. In a statement, Romney cited McCain's, quote, "record of service and sacrifice for America," and said, "It's hard to imagine the U.S. Senate without John McCain." McCain is facing a GOP primary challenge from the right from former Rep. J.D. Hayworth, who represented Arizona in Congress for 12 years before losing a 2006 re-election bid. Since then, he's worked as a talk radio host. Hayworth is charging that McCain has backed big government spending and betrayed conservative values with his support for immigration reform.

• After their at-times bitter primary battle in 2008, Romney wholeheartedly backed McCain for president when he dropped out. Romney is widely expected to run for president again in 2012.
• McCain's 2008 running mate, Sarah Palin, has also endorsed him for re-election.

SPORTS:

VANCOUVER WINTER OLYMPICS:

Kim in Lead After Women's Figure Skating Short Program: Heavy favorite Kim Yu-na of South Korea is in first place after the women's figure skating short program last night (February 23rd). Her score of 78.5 for her James Bond-themed routine was a personal best for her, and put her nearly five points ahead of Japan's Mao Asada in second place. In third is Canada's Joannie Rochette, who gave a moving performance just two days after her mother's sudden death. After striking her final pose as the music ended, an emotional Rochette doubled over and began to cry, letting out her grief. Americans Rachel Flatt and Mirai Nagasu finished in fifth and sixth place, respectively. The free skate that will determine the medal winners will be held Thursday (February 25th).

Bode Miller Skis Off Course in Giant Slalom: Yesterday's giant slalom was a bust for American Bode Miller, who skied off course and out of the race as he was trying to win his fourth medal of the Vancouver Olympics in his fourth race. After narrowly avoiding crashing on the upper part of the course, he tried to make up time by going faster on the bottom. But he came out of a gate and couldn't get around in time for the next one, saying later he hooked his glove. Miller's final race, the slalom, will take place Saturday.

Canadian Men's Hockey Team Crushes Germany 8-2: All of Canada can breathe a little easier again, after the men's hockey team crushed Germany 8-2 yesterday to advance to the quarterfinal. They'll be playing fellow gold medal favorite Russia today (February 24th) in their quarterfinal match up. Canada was forced into the qualification game because of a surprise 5-3 upset by the American team on Sunday.

Stunning Mistake Costs Overwhelming Favorite Speedskating Gold: The overwhelming favorite in the men's 10,000-meter speedskating event yesterday was disqualified after making a stunning, amateurish mistake by failing to switch lanes just past the midway point of the race. Dutch speedskater Sven Kramer didn't realize what he'd done, and thought he'd won when he finished about four seconds ahead of Lee Seung-hoon of South Korea. But he was quickly told what had happened by the Dutch coach, and it was Lee who celebrated an unexpected gold. In long track speedskating, the skaters switch lanes each time they go down the backstretch to even up the distance they cover. Kramer missed the switch on the 17th of 25 laps.

MEDAL COUNT: The U.S. now has 26 medals overall -- 7 gold, 9 silver and 10 bronze. The U.S. is first in the overall medal count ahead of Germany, which has 23. Norway is third with 17. The U.S. and Germany are tied for first place in gold medals with 7 each. Norway, Canada and Switzerland are tied for second with 6 each, and South Korea is third with 5.

JAYSON WILLIAMS GETS FIVE-YEAR SENTENCE IN LIMO DRIVER'S DEATH: Former NBA star Jayson Williams was sentenced to five years in prison Tuesday (February 23rd) for the accidental fatal shooting of a limo driver in 2002. He'll be eligible for parole in 18 months. Williams pled guilty last month to aggravated assault in the death of 55-year-old Costas Christofi, avoiding retrial on a reckless manslaughter charge that a jury had deadlocked on in his 2004 trial. At that same trial, he was acquitted of aggravated manslaughter, but convicted of covering up the shooting. Christofi had driven Williams and several friends back to Williams' New Jersey mansion on the night of the shooting after taking them to a local restaurant. While giving them a tour of the house, Williams showed them his gun collection. While showing off a double-barreled shotgun, the gun fired accidentally, hitting Christofi once in the chest and killing him. Witnesses testified that Williams tried to cover up his involvement by initially placing the gun in Christofi's hands and instructing those present to lie about what happened.

• Williams paid Christofi's family more than $2 million in 2003 to settle a wrongful death lawsuit.

(Headline News, FYI and Sports stories were compiled in part from reports by the Associated Press and Reuters.)

ON THE TUBE TODAY!!!!!

Wednesday, February 24, 2010

CBS

• THE NEW ADVENTURES OF OLD CHRISTINE (repeat)
• GARY UNMARRIED (repeat)
• CRIMINAL MINDS (repeat)
• CSI: NY (repeat)

NBC

• XXI WINTER OLYMPICS - 8 PM, Short track, 500m; Bobsled; Lindsay Vonn in the giant slalom; speed skating; skiing

FOX

• AMERICAN IDOL - The top 12 male semifinalists perform.

ABC

• MODER FAMILY (repeat)
• THE MIDDLE (repeat)
• MODERN FAMILY (repeat)
• THE MIDDLE (repeat)
• COUGAR TOWN (repeat)
• COUGAR TOWN (repeat)

CW

• LIFE UNEXPECTED (repeat)
• GOSSIP GIRL (repeat)

FX

• NIP/TUCK - Julia visits Sean and Christian; a past great love of Matt's shows up just as he prepares to marry Ramona.

MTV

• THE REAL WORLD - After drinking, play-fighting turns into actual fighting; Josh is forced to face his infidelity.

USA

• PSYCH - Shawn and Gus are recruited into a think tank to help prevent the murder of a business tycoon.

DAY TIME TALK SHOW

THE ELLEN DEGENERES SHOW - Woody Harrelson
THE OPRAH WINFREY SHOW - Former Aide to John Edwards, Andrew Young and his wife Cheri
THE VIEW - Nadya Suleman, Danielle Steel

LATE NIGHT TALK SHOWS

THE LATE SHOW WITH DAVID LETTERMAN (CBS) - (repeat)
THE TONIGHT SHOW WITH JAY LENO (NBC) - Pre-empted for Olympics coverage
JIMMY KIMMEL LIVE (ABC) - Andy Garcia, Machael Galanes, Dana Gould
THE LATE LATE SHOW WITH CRAIG FERGUSON (CBS) - Don Cheadle, Jeanette Walls
LATE NIGHT WITH JIMMY FALLON (NBC) - Pre-empted for Olympics coverage
LAST CALL WITH CARSON DALY (NBC) - Pre-empted for Olympics coverage
THE DAILY SHOW WITH JON STEWART (COMEDY CENTRAL) - Tracy Morgan
THE COLBERT REPORT (COMEDY CENTRAL) - Scott Hamilton
LOPEZ TONIGHT - (repeat)

OFF BEAT BRIEFS

GERMANY HOLDS TOPLESS TOBOGGANING COMPETITION: Over 14,000 spectators gathered in Braunlage, Germany earlier this month for a sport known as topless tobogganing. Thirty male and female competitors made their way down a 100-meter track on sledges, dressed only in skimpy underwear. Men and women of all ages competed. A 70-year-old man gained the biggest applause for stripping down to his long johns, while 26-year-old Christian Schmidt won the event. The event came about after officials in another German town tried to stop the competition. (Metro.co.uk)

CHECK IT OUT: Footage from the event! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B8K63Agv2EY

MAN PROPOSES IN SNOW CASTLE: A man from Ohio wanted to create a memorable setting for his marriage proposal. So Ryan Knotek created a one room, one-story snow castle for his girlfriend Christi Lombardo. Knotek said that he wanted to propose to his girlfriend in a way that would give her a unique story to tell. He placed candles, rose petals and wine inside the castle. Knotek even included a portable heater in order to keep warm. Lombardo said 'yes'. (AP)

PUPPET CLEAVAGE REJECTED: A poster for a tour of Broadway's Avenue Q has been ruled out for advertising in Colorado Springs. Lamar Advertising rejected the ad because it shows the cleavage of a fuzzy pink puppet. Jeff Moore, a Lamar executive, said that the company takes on a conservative approach in Colorado Springs. The city is known for its political conservatism and has many conservative Christian groups. The poster has been replaced with a picture of the face of another puppet. Avenue Q is an award-winning musical about New Yorkers -- puppets and humans -- in their twenties, who are trying to find love. (AP)

LOVE HANDLES SAVE A WOMAN'S LIFE: A woman from Florida said that she was saved by her love handles when she was shot entering a bar in Atlantic City, N.J. Samantha Lynn Frazier, 35, was an innocent bystander when she was shot walking into Herman's Place early Saturday. According to police, Frazier felt pain after hearing two shots being fired. She then grabbed her side and saw the blood on her hand. Detective Lt. Charles Love said the shots were meant for a man who escaped with a bullet hole in his jacket. Frazier had told The Press of Atlantic City that she wanted to lose weight, but now she said ''I want to be as big as I can if it's going to stop a bullet.'' (AP)

DID YOU KNOW?

WOMEN LIKE GETTING KISSED ON THE NECK: DUH? I knew that! :-) Jessi

Ninety-six percent of females enjoy it when their partner kisses their neck. William Cane, author of the book "The Art of Kissing," surveyed over 100,000 people throughout the world about various kissing techniques and preferences. The high percentage of females who want their partner to focus on their neck during a make-out session is especially surprising because only 10 percent of guys cite the neck as an area that needs lip attention. (Asylum.com)

HAPPINESS PEAKS AT AGE 74: Scientists say that life is "all downhill" till 40 -- and we're happiest at 74. The Daily Mail reported that a combination of fewer responsibilities and financial worries and having more time to yourself produces a contentment unknown earlier in life. The study found that people in their fifties and sixties became more upbeat, with satisfaction peaking at a rating of 5.9 out of seven at around 74 The researchers have found that happiness starts to dip in the teenage years and continues on a downward spiral until the age of 40. It then levels off until about 46, before rising to a peak more than 30 years later.

BAKERY OFFERS MANLY CUPCAKES: New York's Butch Bakery is offering "manly" cupcakes in response to the girly selection found in most stores. Some varieties include Rum & Coke (rum-soaked Madagascar vanilla cake with cola Bavarian cream filling), Beer Run (chocolate beer cake with beer-infused buttercream, topped with crushed pretzels) and The Old-Fashioned (orange-soaked whiskey cake with lemon curd filling). Each is topped with a streamlined chocolate disc patterned in either plaid, houndstooth, camouflage or driftwood. Check out the bakery: http://www.butchbakery.com/about.php

WOMEN ARE SMARTER THAN MEN: A five-month global contest to determine whether men or women were smarter has been decided -- with the women coming out on top. Trivial Pursuit set up the global challenge, in nine languages, and after more than 15,121,731 questions asked -- women were deemed the smarter sex. They answered 4,088,139 correct, compared to 4,077,596 by the men.

JOB LOSS SHORTENS LIVES: Losing a job can take years off your life: According to research carried out by Columbia University economist Till Von Wachter, mortality rates among men (Wachter studied men in their 40s and 50s) go up every year in the aftermath of being laid off or losing one's job, and the effect is even more pronounced on younger guys; notably, men who are laid off in their 30s tend to have a shorter lifespan Compared with men who became unemployed at a later age, and compared with men who were never unemployed.

HOURGLASS FIGURES AFFECT MENS' BRAINS LIKE A DRUG: Watching a curvaceous woman can feel like a reward in the brain of men, much as drinking alcohol or taking drugs might, research now reveals. LiveScience.com reported on research that had 14 men, average age 25, rate how attractive they found pictures of the naked derrieres of seven women before and after cosmetic surgery that gave them more shapely hips. These operations did not reduce weight but just redistributed it, by implanting fat harvested from the waists into the buttocks. Brain scans of the men revealed that seeing post-surgery women activated parts of the brain linked with rewards, including regions associated with responses to drugs and alcohol.

IMPOSSIBLE QUESTION

Michael Bolton once toured with what famous heavy metal singer?

A: Ozzy Osbourne

• According to Wikipedia, Bolton's hard rock band, Blackjack, once toured with heavy metal singer Ozzy Osbourne.

ESPN's Kornheiser Suspended for Cracks About Hannah Storm's Clothes

ESPN has suspended Pardon the Interruption host Tony Kornheiser for two weeks over cracks he made on his Washington, D.C., radio show last week about SportsCenter anchor Hannah Storm's clothes. Kornheiser had said on his show about Storm's outfit on that morning's edition of SportsCenter: "Hannah Storm in a horrifying, horrifying outfit today. She's got on red go-go boots and a Catholic school plaid skirt. Way too short for somebody in her 40s or maybe early 50s by now. And she's got on her typically very, very tight shirt. So she looks like she's got sausage casing wrapping around her upper body. . . . [She's] what I would call a Holden Caulfield fantasy at this point." Kornheiser announced the suspension on his radio show yesterday (February 23rd), calling his remarks intemperate and stupid and saying he'd called Storm to apologize to her personally.

Should 911 Calls Be Made Public?

Lawmakers in Alabama, Ohio and Wisconsin are deciding whether to join the four states that already ban the public release of 911 calls, concerned about people listening to the often-wrenching things heard on these calls for sensationalistic reasons. In most states, 911 calls are considered public records, and news organizations make case-by-case decisions about whether to air them, weighing news value and issues of taste and sensitivity. But sometimes bad judgment calls are made. AP cited two examples of calls that probably shouldn't have been aired: a North Carolina woman screaming "Oh God!" over and over again after finding her daughter beaten to death in the driveway; and an Alabama boy calling for help while his grandmother was being mauled by a dog. Media and open government advocates, however, say the calls should remain public available, because they have been used to reveal wrongly handled calls.

Deal Struck to Bring a Casino to Philadelphia

Las Vegas-based Wynn Resorts announced plans yesterday (February 23rd) to partner with the Native American tribe that runs Connecticut's Foxwoods casino to develop a new casino on the Philadelphia waterfront. The company has entered into a letter of intent with an investor group made up of the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation and local Pennsylvania investors. However, the deal is subject to meeting certain conditions, including getting the approval of the Pennsylvania Gaming Board.

KFLAG COUNTRY MUSIC UPDATE

Brad Paisley's American Saturday Night tour wrapped up this weekend's west coast run with four sold out shows in Fresno, Los Angeles, Las Vegas and Reno. A few famous faces were in the crowd at Brad's Los Angeles show, including William Shatner, the Jonas Brothers, Patrick Warburton, Mary O'Donnell, Zach Quinto, Sheryl Crowe, Danny McBride, and members of REO Speedwagon.

Brad got the pranks started during the Fresno show, where Justin Moore was at the receiving end of the hijinx. One of Brad's crew guys came on stage during Justin's set wearing nothing but a big diaper, in recognition of Justin's new baby girl, Ella Kole, who was born last week. In retaliation, Justin decided to wear that same diaper on stage during Brad's encore song, "Alcohol." Justin did keep his clothes on under the diaper, though.

• The American Saturday Night tour will take a break this week and then wrap up the weekend of March 4th with shows in Greenville, South Carolina, Knoxville, Tennessee and Charleston, South Carolina.
• Brad will be the musical guest for Jay Leno's first show back as host of The Tonight Show on March 1st. The night's other guests will be Jamie Foxx and Olympic Gold medal Skier Lindsey Vonn. The Tonight Show airs at 11:35 p.m. ET on NBC.

Taylor Swift is accused of showing some diva-like behavior during her recent trip Down Under. Australia's The Daily Telegraph reports that she "flipped out and ranted and raved" at Brisbane teppanyaki restaurant, where chefs cook at the table and diners participate in the process. The chef reportedly asked Taylor if she was ready to catch the egg. She said yes, but missed it and it got on her clothes. A source told the newspaper, "After being calmed down the chef asked her if she was ready for some rice, again she said yes, but once she caught it she threw it back at the chef.''

If this doesn't sound like something Taylor would do, it's because it "didn't happen," the superstar's publicist tells us.

• Taylor has returned from her overseas trip and will kick off the North American leg of her Fearless tour on March 4th in Tampa.
• The trek will feature special guests Kellie Pickler and Gloriana.

Reba McEntire and her husband and manager, Narvel Blackstock, are celebrating the 20th birthday of their son, Shelby, today (Tuesday, February 23rd). Shelby is the couple's only child together, and although he's an adult, Reba tells us they can't help but continue to worry about his future. "Shelby has brought us lots of years of joy, lots of years of laughter, funny -- he's a funny guy -- and it's just a very curious thing, and I know all parents do this. You just sit back and wonder, 'What's he gonna be like in five years? Where are they gonna be?' He's in college now. You don't know from day to day, 'Is that gonna last?' 'Where are they gonna be next week?' and 'Are they goin' to class' and all kinda things."

Reba says she still takes her role as parent very seriously, but it's definitely a balancing act these days."It's one of those things where you've got to stand firm on what you tell 'em to do, but also kind of stand back and see how they react and be patient, which is very hard for us to do."

• Reba's tour with George Strait and special guest Lee Ann Womack plays in Atlanta on Thursday (February 25th) and Orlando on Friday (February 26th).
• Next Tuesday (March 2nd), Reba will be in New York City with Blake Shelton to announce the nominees for the upcoming Academy of Country Music Awards live on the CBS Early Show.
• Reba recently confirmed that she will appear at this year's CMA Music Festival, taking place in downtown Nashville from June 10-13.

Alan Jackson will kick off his new Freight Train tour on April 8th in Estero, Florida. The two-month run will play in 15 cities before wrapping up on May 23rd in Lexington, Kentucky. The trek will feature special guests Josh Turner and Chris Young. Tickets are already on sale in select markets.

• Alan's new CD, Freight Train, will be released on March 30th. It includes eight original songs written by Alan, as well as the album's first single, "It's Just That Way," and a duet with Lee Ann Womack on the Vern Gosdin classic, "Till the End."
• Alan will launch the album with March 30th appearances on Today and the Late Show with David Letterman. He'll also visit The Tonight Show with Jay Leno on April l4th followed by his first appearance on The Ellen DeGeneres Show on April 15th.
• The complete list of Freight Train dates are as follows:
• April 8 - Estero, FL
  April 9 - Orlando, FL
  April 10 - Alpharetta, GA
  April 11 - Greenville, SC

  April 29 - Champaign, IL
  April 30 - Moline, IL

  May 2 - Fort Wayne, IN

  May 13 - Manchester, NH
  May 14 - Uncasville, CT
  May 15 - Rochester, NY

  May 16 - Wilkes-Barre, PA

  May 21 - University Park, PA
  May 22 - Charleston, WV
  May 23 - Lexington, KY

FAST FACTS

• Alan's career has spanned 20 years, netting album sales of 50 million-plus.
• His most recent CD, Good Time, became the fourth album of his career to debut simultaneously at Number One on Billboard's Top Country Albums and all-genre Billboard 200 sales charts.
• Good Time also charted three Number One hits.

Even Garth Brooks was stunned by the audience's reaction after his show at the Encore Theater in Las Vegas on February 12th. After two hours of performing, the lights came up, the show was over and Garth went backstage to have dinner. About 15 minutes later, a stagehand told Garth that the audience was still there, standing like they were when he left the stage. After seeing it with his own eyes, Garth grabbed his guitar and returned to the stage for another 45-minute set. He later said, "I've never seen anything like it in my career."

Garth's next batch of dates at the Encore Theater are March 26, 27, 28; April 9, 10, 11; June 25, 26, 27; July 16, 17, 18; and August 6, 7, 8.

• Tickets go on sale on Saturday (February 27th) at 8 a.m. PT. Tickets may be booked by calling 702-770-1000 or online at wynnlasvegas.com/boxoffice.
• Tickets are $125 plus service charge and tax ($143 total).

FAST FACTS

• So far, all Garth's shows in Las Vegas have sold out in minutes.
• He is scheduled to appear at the Encore Theater several weekends a year for the next five years.
• Garth has no plans to record or tour new music during the next five years.

The final issue of the Trace Adkins-inspired Luke McBain comic book mini-series will be released on Wednesday (February 24th). The four-part series about a southern renegade hero was based on Trace's likeness and personality. The series has been a hit, much to Trace's surprise, as he tells us: ["I didn't have any idea how it was gonna come out. I didn't know. . . I really didn't have any preconceived notions about that. I had this meeting with these comic book dudes, and I kind of forgot about it, to tell you the truth, and then a few months later I got a comic book in the mail, and I said, 'This is what they were talkin' about? This is pretty cool!' I was taken by surprise, to be honest with you."] SOUNDCUE (:26 OC: . . . honest with you.)

• The first issue of Luke McBain was released in November and sold out at the distributor level after just 48 hours on the stands.
• All issues of Luke McBain are available online at traceadkins.com and 12gaugecomics.com, as well as at comic book retailers nationwide.
• Trace is currently co-headlining the Shine All Night tour with Martina McBride through April.
• He is currently recording a new album, his first for the Show Dog/Universal label which is co-headed by Toby Keith.

Darius Rucker will lend his time and talent to the Musicians On Call (MOC) organization on Wednesday (February 24th). MOC is dedicated to bringing live and recorded music to the bedsides of patients in healthcare facilities, so Darius will do just that when he visits the Tennessee Valley Healthcare System's VA Hospital. He will also host an intimate performance on March 3rd at Nashville's Hard Rock Cafe to kick off the restaurant chain's month-long March On Stage campaign benefiting MOC. The benfit will also feature special guest Jypsi. Tickets for the event can be purchased at TicketAlternative.com.

• Darius said, "I think the Musicians On Call initiative is important because it's one-on-one contact with patients whose health and recovery can directly be affected by one person's time and attention. Hospitals like the VA are so incredible for recognizing this benefit and incorporating it into their treatment to break up the monotony and improve each patient's quality of life."
• Darius is working on a new CD, the follow-up to his platinum-selling 2008 release, Learn To Live.
• The new album is scheduled for release later this year.
• Darius also continues on Rascal Flatts' American Living Unstoppable tour, which plays in Sioux City, Iowa on Thursday (February 25th).

SIDE NOTE

• Darius says he will tour and record with Hootie & The Blowfish again in the future.

Josh Thompson releases his debut album, Way Out Here, today (Tuesday, February 23rd). The singer will celebrate the release by playing a club event followed by a CD signing at The Cabooze in Minneapolis. Last night (Monday, February 22nd), Josh was in his hometown of Milwaukee where he performed at a local club and signed CDs.

• Way Out Here features Josh's Top 20 single, "Beer On The Table," as well as nine other songs that he wrote or co-wrote.
• Josh is currently on the road as part of the Jagermeister Country tour with headliner Eric Church.
• He will be in Nashville this week for Country Radio Seminar. Josh will be performing on the Grand Ole Opry stage on Friday (February 26th) night before heading up to Bowling Green, Kentucky for another club show later that evening.
• "Beer On The Table" was a recent Top 20 hit on the country charts.

FAST FACTS

• Josh co-wrote the title track of Jason Michael Carroll's current CD, "Growing Up Is Getting Old."
• Way Out Here was produced by Michael Knox, who also produced all of Jason Aldean's albums.

Josh Turner's hit single "Why Don't We Just Dance" continues its reign over the Number One spot on Billboard's Hot Country Songs chart for the third consecutive week. The song is the first three-week chart-topper of Josh's career. He said, "I am on cloud nine right now. You can't get any higher than #1 and to stay there for three weeks is just incredible. I am really happy that people love this song."

Kenny Chesney is offering a free iPod Touch and iPhone application featuring tour dates, photos, videos and streaming of his NoShoesRadio.com. To download the application, log onto iTunes.com.

Arkansas native Buddy Jewell will provide the post-parade entertainment at the First Ever Seventh Annual World's Longest St. Patrick's Day Parade in Hot Springs on March 17th.

COUNTRY TRIVIA

Q. What legendary entertainer helped Alan Jackson get his music career started in Nashville?
A. Glen Campbell

COUNTRY ON THE TUBE TODAY!

ON THE STREETS/GAC 1:30PM, 9:00PM (ET)
Sarah Buxton

SUPERSTAR SESSIONS/GAC 8:00PM (ET)
Sugarland

PREMIERE/GAC 10:00PM (ET)
Sarah Buxton

CELEBRATING BIRTHDAYS TODAY!

Steve Holy (38)

• Peter Fonda (actor, Easy Rider, Race With The Devil, Escape From L.A., Ghost Rider; son of Henry Fonda; brother of Jane Fonda; father of Bridget Fonda) (71)
• Patricia Richardson (actress, played Jill Taylor on ABC's Home Improvement) (59)
• Dakota Fanning (actress, The Cat In The Hat, Man On Fire, Hide And Seek, War Of The Worlds) (16)
• Brad Whitford (guitarist, Aerosmith) (58)
• Howard Jones ('80s synth-pop star, "No One Is To Blame," "Things Can Only Get Better," "What Is Love?"; toured with Ringo Starr & His All-Starr Band) (55)
• Kristin Davis (actress, Sex And The City) (45)
• Johnny Winter (rock musician) (66)
• Kelly Macdonald (actress, Trainspotting, No Country For Old Men) (34)
• Emily Blunt (actress, The Devil Wears Prada, The Young Victoria, The Wolfman) (27)
• Steve Priest (bassist, Sweet) (62, disputed)
• Terry "Tex" Comer (bassist, Ace) (61)

ON THIS DAY IN COUNTRY!

• Brad Paisley was the celebrity monarch for the Krewe of Orpheus Mardi Gras Parade in New Orleans in 2004.
• LeAnn Rimes married actor Dean Sheremet in 2002 at the age of 19. The couple will be officially divorced on June 19, 2010.
• Vince Gill won his 14th Grammy, tying him with Chet Atkins for most Grammys won by a Nashville artist, in 2000.
• Reba McEntire gave birth to son Shelby Stephen Blackstock at Nashville's West Side Hospital in 1990.
• Mel McDaniel charted his only Number One single in Billboard with "Baby's Got Her Blue Jeans On" in 1985.
• Kenny Rogers won his first Grammy for "Lucille" in 1978.
• Johnny Cash earned a Number One country single in Billboard magazine with "Don't Take Your Guns To Town" in 1959.
• Porter Wagoner joined the Grand Ole Opry in 1957.
• Minnie Pearl (Sarah Colley) married Henry Cannon in 1947.

CELEBRITY GOSSIP

PADMA LAKSHMI GIVES BIRTH: Padma Lakshmi gave birth to a daughter on Saturday (February 20th) in New York City. A source told Usmagazine.com that the Top Chef host named the baby girl Krishna, although the identity of her father has never been announced. Insiders, however, speculate him to be Adam Dell, the younger brother of computer maker Michael Dell. Lakshmi considered her pregnancy a "medical miracle" as she's struggled with endometriosis, a painful uterine condition that can lead to infertility.

PHOTOGRAPHER SAYS SEAN PENN KICK REQUIRED SURGERY: The photographer who Sean Penn kicked last October says that he needed surgery on his knee to repair the damage caused by the actor. Penn was charged with misdemeanor battery and misdemeanor vandalism last week in relation to the incident. If convicted on both counts, Penn could go to jail for 1 1/2 years.

BRANGELINA JETS TO PARIS: Angelina Jolie, Brad Pitt and their children flew to Paris on Monday (February 22nd), as Jolie continues working on her film, The Tourist. People magazine reported that Jolie will spend several days there filming the movie's initial scenes, including a location shoot at one of the city's Belle Epoque landmarks. The family will reportedly head back to Italy shortly, where Jolie will film the bulk of the movie with Johnny Depp.

LORENZO LAMAS ENGAGED: Lorenzo Lamas is about to take a fifth wife. Usmagazine.com reports that the 52-year-old proposed to his 23-year-old girlfriend Shawna Craig at Mr. Chow's restaurant in Beverly Hills over the weekend. The pair has been dating for about three months.

MATT LEBLANC IS AN OLD FRIEND: Matt LeBlanc -- better known as Joey from Friends -- is getting old! The 42-year-old actor was recently photographed sporting a full head of white-gray hair. Check it out: http://tinyurl.com/ybupf4v

CAMERON DOUGLAS'S GIRLFRIEND PLEADS GUILTY: Cameron Douglas's girlfriend pled guilty to a drug charge in court on Monday (February 22nd). TMZ.com reports that Kelly Sott pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor charge of possessing methamphetamine. She made headlines late last year after allegedly trying to sneak heroin to Michael Douglas's son in an electronic toothbrush.

CAROLINE MCWILLIAMS DIES: Actress Caroline McWilliams died last week after suffering complications from multiple myeloma. The 64-year-old was known for her roles on Benson, Soap, Beverly Hills 90210, and the film Mermaids.

BROOKE MUELLER SWITCHES REHAB FACILITIES AFTER SUPPOSED PRIVACY BREACH

Charlie Sheen's wife Brooke Mueller switched rehab facilities late Sunday (February 21st) night, reportedly because of a "serious privacy breach." TMZ.com reports that Mueller left the facility after someone from the staff sent a patient document to various members of the media, which detailed the circumstances surrounding Brooke's admission. A source close to Mueller simply cited "privacy" as the reason she left the Canyon treatment center in Malibu.

The insider said, "Brooke has recently moved to a new rehab facility in the Los Angeles area. She wants privacy and to be away from cameras that were bothering her at the other place. She is doing well and can come and go and play with the kids in the park if she stays in Los Angeles. She wants to keep it together for her twins."

• Meanwhile, the couple's twin boys received a visit from L.A.'s Department of Children and Family Services also on Sunday, which Sheen's rep called "routine and procedural."
• A friend of Charlie's told People, "Charlie's been at home, being a full-time dad. The boys are doing great."

JAY LENO'S FIRST 'TONIGHT SHOW' GUESTS ANNOUNCED

Jamie Foxx, Lindsey Vonn and Brad Paisley will be on hand March 1st as Jay Leno returns to the Tonight Show. The embattled talk show host has lined up a star-studded first week back on the job, which also features appearances by the likes of the Jersey Shore cast and Sarah Palin.

Here's a run-down of Jay's guests during his first two weeks back:

March 1: Jamie Foxx, Olympic gold medal skier Lindsey Vonn, Brad Paisley
March 2: Sarah Palin, Olympic gold medal snowboarder Shaun White
March 3: Jaywalk All-Stars with cast of Jersey Shore, Chelsea Handler, Olympic gold medal speed skater Apolo Anton Ohno, Avril Lavigne
March 4: Matthew McConaughey, Jason Reitman
March 5: Morgan Freeman, Meredith Vieira
March 8: Simon Cowell
March 9: Christoph Waltz, animal expert Dave Salmoni, Joan Jett and the Blackhearts
March 10: Kristen Stewart, Guy Fieri
March 11: Dana Carvey, Kim Kardashian, Colbie Caillat
March 12: Dakota Fanning, Judd Apatow

TIGER WOODS CHECKS INTO ARIZONA REHAB CENTER:

After Tiger Woods' public statement on Friday in Florida, the disgraced golfer noted that he would be returning immediately to rehab. The New York Daily News reports that instead of returning to the Pine Grove facility in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, where he underwent 11 weeks of treatment, Woods will check into a treatment center in Scottsdale, Arizona, to continue sex addiction therapy. It is not clear how long wife Elin will stay in Arizona with him.

TIGER'S ADMISSION PLACES NEW FOCUS ON BUDDHISM: During Woods' speech, he mentioned that he was going to rededicate himself to his Buddhist faith. "Buddhism teaches that a craving of things outside ourselves causes an unhappy and pointless search for security," he said. "It teaches me to stop following every impulse and to learn restraint." Janet Gyatso, a professor of Buddhist studies at Harvard University, told CNN, "Craving causes unhappiness. That's a fundamental Buddhist idea." Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama, in the U.S. last week, admitted that he had never heard of Woods, but told People.com, "Whether you call it Buddhism or another religion, self-discipline, that's important," he said. "Self-discipline with awareness of consequences."

LINDSAY LOHAN SAYS SHE'S 'SAVED'; BLAMES PAST COCAINE USE ON HER DAD

Lindsay Lohan is opening up about her past drug abuse, but claims she's now in a place "where I don't need to use anything and I can feel emotions because I choose to." The 23-year-old blames her father for pushing her deep into substance abuse and detailed some of her darkest moments to London's The Sun.

• Lohan told the paper, "When my father was going public, that's when I hit rock bottom. I abused substances too much and it wasn't the answer to my problems. People need to know that. Mind-altering substances are so dangerous. If I can teach others, especially teens, by sharing my experiences, then that's what I will continue to do. I've made some dreadful mistakes but learned from them - that has probably saved my life."

LINDSAY DETAILS, MAKES EXCUSES FOR DRUG ABUSE

She talked about her struggles, saying, "I went to rehab three times. The first time I checked myself in because I had taken Ambien. It's a sleeping aid but it makes you hallucinate. I'd run a bath and fallen asleep on the floor and the bath had overflowed. When I woke up I was so scared, I called my therapist and said, 'Can I just go somewhere for a month? I'm around bad people and I need to take care of myself'. I was terrified, so I put myself in."

Lohan insists that she was honest about the circumstances of her May 2007 cocaine arrest. She said, "It was in a purse and I was with friends. I wasn't trying to lie to police. I was only aware of cocaine because of my dad. I was terrified of it. But I tried it because I was stubborn, stupid, and wanted to see what it was like. It's not something I ever want to do again. It made me feel like s***. It became uninteresting to me. I'm hyper anyway and I have that kind of personality so I don't need something like that."

• Lindsay also downplayed her DUI arrest. She said, "I wasn't driving like a maniac. There were paparazzi and their flashes were going off into the window. I tried to turn, then I sped up because they sped up. That's when I hit the tree. I just thank God everyone was OK. But it was scary. I had three drinks, at most. I've been stupid and childish and I wasn't thinking."
• She also claims her controversial behavior was normal. Lohan defended her partying, explaining, "The thing is, at the times I was going out a lot and being seen everywhere, I would have been in college. My brother, who is 18, and his friends go out to bars and stuff till whatever time. That's what you do in college. Mine was all in the public eye so it was magnified that much more. I've now learned my boundaries and I've been very good with cleaning house with people who I know didn't have my best intentions at heart. A lot of people in LA are very self destructive."

ABBIE CORNISH AND RYAN PHILLIPPE SPLIT

Abbie Cornish and Ryan Phillippe are through after nearly four years of dating. A rep for the actress told People magazine, "Abbie ended the relationship with Ryan and she moved out of their home."

However, Phillippe's rep claims that he ended things, maintaining, "Ryan ended the relationship and asked her to move out of his house." On Sunday (February 21st), Cornish was spotted moving her belongs from the Los Angeles home they had been sharing.

The split comes on the heels of tabloid speculation that Ryan had been unfaithful and did not share Abbie's desire for marriage. When asked about the rumors, Cornish's rep replied, "No comment."

• The couple met in 2006 on the set of their film, Stop-Loss. The media widely reported that their relationship was a catalyst for Phillippe's divorce from Reese Witherspoon.

BRET MICHAELS HINTS HE GETS FIRED EARLY ON 'CELEBRITY APPRENTICE'

Bret Michaels hinted that he'll be one of the first to hear Donald Trump's signature phrase when Celebrity Apprentice kicks off next month. When asked how it was possible that he doesn't know who wins the series, Michaels told us, ["Well if you're not there you don't know. Let me just say this, if you want to see me on the show, tune in early."] SOUNDCUE (:07 OC: . . . tune in early)

He added that doing the show came with many challenges -- not the least of which was finding bandanas to match the show's professional attire. He admitted, "To find a tux, and a tux bandana, I mean, that's a hard gig."

• Celebrity Apprentice premieres on NBC on March 14th.

SUSAN BOYLE REPORTEDLY IS DESPERATE FOR LOVE

Susan Boyle's dream of singing stardom has come true, but she's reportedly still wishing for love. The signer's brother Gerry supposedly told Britain's The People newspaper that his 48-year-old sister is desperate for a boyfriend.

He's quoted as having said, "It's just all so sad, so sad. Susan has the world at her feet in terms of fame and money but at this precise moment in time it means nothing. Absolutely nothing. The one thing she wants above all everything else is love. Who doesn't? Her biggest wish is to find someone who she can share her success with and support her through the difficult times. Of course her family will always be there for her but it is not the same as having someone special in your life."

• Gerry continued, "Susan knows she can jet anywhere in the world first-class, eat in the best restaurants and stay in the top hotels but that means nothing to her if she doesn't have anyone to share those moments with. If I'm honest things aren't great for Susan at the moment on a personal level."

OLYMPICS GOLD MEDALISTS EVAN LYSACEK AND NASTIA LIUKIN ARE DATING

Olympic gold medalists Evan Lysacek and Nastia Liukin are an item. 24-year-old Lysacek, who became the first American man to win figure skating gold in 22 years, revealed that he's been dating Beijing's star gymnast since last summer.

Evan told People magazine that he met 20-year-old Nastia at 2008's NBC special Skating & Gymnastics Spectacular and, "We became good friends and have become really close since then."

Liukin said that watching her beau take the gold medal was "amazing." She explained, "Even though we're not in the same sport, we got to connect at the same level because there's nothing like the Olympics. It was nice to be on other side of things and be the support system, but I was nervous."

• Evan credited Liukin for helping him alleviate the mental pressure of the games, saying, "She has been through it herself. If I'm having a bad day, she tells me to have faith and to keep going. Sometimes your support system has more faith in you than yourself. And when she tells me things are going to be fine, I really believe it."
• Despite their matching medals, the duo swears that they're just like everyone else. When they're together in L.A., says Liukin, "We hang out, go to dinner and movies, and lay low. We have similar personalities -- we're both laid back."

HEADLINE NEWS!!

SCOTT BROWN HELPS JOBS BILL CLEAR GOP FILIBUSTER: Republican Senator Scott Brown of Massachusetts joined four of his GOP colleagues yesterday (February 22nd) in voting with Democrats to clear a Republican filibuster of a jobs bill. The 62-30 vote advances the measure to a final vote Wednesday, and gives President Obama and congressional Democrats a much-needed win. At the same time the measure, which includes provisions rewarding businesses for hiring, is expected to only have a modest effect on unemployment. Brown, the upset winner of a special election last month for the late Ted Kennedy's seat, said after the vote, "I came to Washington to be an independent voice, to put politics aside and to do everything in my power to help create jobs for Massachusetts." Afterwards, Obama thanked the Senate for working together, and Majority Leader Harry Reid of Nevada was clearly pleased to have gotten five GOP votes. The other Republicans voting to break the filibuster were: Senators Olympia Snowe and Susan Collins of Maine; Kit Bond of Missouri and George Voinovich of Ohio. Democrat Ben Nelson of Nebraska broke ranks and voted with the Republicans.

TERRORISM SUSPECT ZAZI PLEADS GUILTY IN NYC BOMB PLOT: A terrorism suspect accused of planning to launch attacks in New York City around the 9/11 anniversary last September pled guilty Monday (February 22nd) to conspiring to use weapons of mass destruction, conspiring to commit murder in a foreign country and providing material support for a terrorist organization. Twenty-five-year-old Najibullah Zazi faces life in jail without parole when he's sentenced in June. He's apparently cooperating as part of a plea deal that may be to get concessions for his father, who's charged with lying to federal investigators. AP also cited a source as saying Zazi decided to cooperate after being warned his mother could face criminal immigration charges. Zazi said he went to Pakistan in 2008 to join the Taliban and fight against the U.S. in his native Afghanistan, but was recruited by al-Qaida to carry out an attack in New York and received weapons and explosives training. He said he built homemade bombs with beauty supplies he bought in the Denver suburbs, where he was living, and drove them to New York over the weekend of the 9/11 anniversary, where he planned to detonate them in the subways. But he was stopped for a traffic violation on the George Washington Bridge, and suspicious officers kept a close watch on his movements. Several Queens apartments, including a friends home, were raided days later, and when Zazi realized the authorities were on to him, he threw away the bomb materials.

AFGHAN FIGHT IN MARJAH FACING STRONGER RESISTANCE THAN EXPECTED: Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman Michael Mullen said yesterday (February 22nd) that U.S.-led forces were making steady progress in their effort to take the Taliban stronghold of Marjah in Afghanistan. But he said they were facing stronger resistance than expected when they launched the operation 10 days earlier, and it would take longer than had been hoped. Mullen also expressed regret for a NATO airstrike that killed at least 21 Afghan civilians. Meanwhile, Defense Secretary Robert Gates said that recent arrests of high-level Taliban fighters by Pakistan was, quote, "real progress" by the Pakistan government, and a sign of its commitment to stabilizing its border with Afghanistan.

CHENEY HOSPITALIZED WITH CHEST PAINS: Former vice president Dick Cheney was hospitalized Monday (February 22nd) after experiencing chest pains and was said late last night to be resting comfortably at George Washington University Hospital. The 69-year-old Cheney has a history of heart problems, including four heart attacks. With an immediate heart attack ruled out, doctors are evaluating Cheney to discover the cause of the pain. A blockage could be to blame -- such as the one former President Bill Clinton had a couple of weeks ago. Cheney has had bypass surgery and two angioplasties, as well as having a special pacemaker implanted in his chest in 2001. In 2008, doctors restored a normal rhythm to his heart with an electric shock.

TODAY'S FYI:

SURVEY: CUT BACK IN MAMMOGRAMS AFTER CONTROVERSIAL GUIDELINES: The fear that controversial new breast cancer screening guidelines upping the recommended age to begin mammograms from 40 to 50 would lead to a reduction in screenings for uninsured women seems to be being realized. A survey out Monday (February 22nd) of breast cancer health educators and providers in 48 states and Washington, D.C., by the Avon Foundation for Women found that one-quarter of the states have either cut back or eliminated mammography and other early detection services, including cervical cancer screening, for women under 50. The programs funded by both federal and state money offer poor and uninsured women access to breast and cervical cancer screening. The November report from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force issued their conclusions in November, leading to an outcry from doctors and advocacy groups that it would lead to more women dying from breast cancer. Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius said at the time that the Task Force didn't set federal policy and its findings wouldn't affect the services the government pays for.

TIGER WOODS' APOLOGY RATED SECOND AMONG CELEB MEA CULPAS: A national media study gauging viewer reaction to celebrity apologizes found that the one offered by Tiger Woods last Friday (February 19th) was rated second among celebrity mea culpas in 2009 and 2010. In the study from HCD Research, just under 1,100 people rated their perceived sincerity of a celebrity before and after watching their apology. Positive scores meant an increase in perceived sincerity, with the higher the score the better, while a negative score indicated a reduction in perceived sincerity. Here's how they did:

• Chris Brown's apology for assaulting Rihanna -- (17.2)
• Tiger Woods' apology for his multiple affairs -- (7.9)
• David Letterman's sex scandal confession -- (4.3)
• South Carolina Governor Mark Sanford's apology for his affair -- (3.2)
• David Letterman's apology for joke about Sarah Palin's daughter -- (-2.3)
• Jaimee Grubbs' apology to Tiger Woods' wife -- (-5.9)
• John Mayer's apology for Playboy interview -- (-13.6)

When asked specifically if they thought Tiger's apology was sincere, 58 percent of men and 61 percent of women said yes.

MACY'S THANKSGIVING DAY PARADE MAY BE SCALED BACK: The New York City Police Department could be playing the Grinch this year, with word that all city parade organizers, including those for the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, must shorten their routes by 25 percent, and keep their parades under five hours. The NYPD is looking to reduce costs associated with planned events in an effort to avoid cuts in necessary services due to budget cutbacks. The changes that go into effect in April are expected to save the NYPD $3.1 million. It wasn't immediately clear how the city's many parades will be affected, but Macy's said it was working with police to figure out how the new rules will affect the Thanksgiving Day Parade.

RARE SUPERMAN COMIC BOOK SELLS FOR $1 MILLION: A rare copy of the first Superman comic book that dates back to 1938 was sold Monday (February 22nd) for $1 million, more than doubling the previous record for a comic book. Considered the Holy Grail of comic books, there are only about 100 copies of Action Comics No. 1 -- which features Superman lifting a care on the cover -- believed to be in existence. Of those, only a handful are rated in as good condition as the one sold yesterday. And rarer still is it for one of those few to be put up for sale. Both the seller and buyer involved in the transaction on the auction site ComicConnect.com were private buyers who didn't release their names. But ComicConnect.com site co-owner Stephen Fishler said the seller was a well-known individual in New York with a pedigree comic collection -- we're guessing well-known Superman freak Jerry Seinfeld.

43-INCH GREAT DANE NAMED WORLD'S TALLEST DOG: A Great Dane from Arizona that stands 3 feet, 7 inches tall was named the world's Tallest Living Dog and Tallest Dog Ever yesterday (February 22nd) by Guinness World Records. Four-year-old Giant George measures 43 inches from paw to shoulder, and weighs a hefty 245 pounds. Owner Dave Nasser says the large gray pooch eats about 110 pounds of food each month, and has his own queen-sized bed in his Tucson home. But although he's just a dog, Giant George is a true 21st-century celebrity, with his own website at giantgeorge.com and pages on Facebook and Twitter.

SPORTS:

VANCOUVER WINTER OLYMPICS:

Canada Wins Ice Dancing Gold, U.S. Pair Takes Silver: Canadians Tessa Virtue and Scott Moir won the gold medal in ice dancing last night (February 22nd), becoming the first-ever North American pair to win the event that the Russians have long dominated. U.S. champions Meryl David and Charlie White won silver, while Russians Oksana Domnina and Maxim Shabalin, the reigning world champions, had to settle for bronze.

U.S. Women's Hockey Team Beat Sweden 9-1 in Semifinal: The U.S. women's hockey team will play Canada Thursday (February 25th) for the gold medal after beating Sweden 9-1 in their semifinal game yesterday (February 22nd). The win over the Swedes had a bit of sweet revenge to it, since Sweden eliminated the U.S. in the semi-finals at the 2006 Turin Games, in what was the biggest upset ever in women's Olympic ice hockey. Canada advanced yesterday to the final by beating Finland 5-0.

Brodeur Won't Play for Team Canada Tuesday: After the Canadian men's hockey team's devastating loss to the U.S. on Sunday, coach Mike Babcock has decided that goalie Martin Brodeur will not play in tonight's (February 23rd) game against Germany that Canada needs to win to reach the quarterfinals. Robert Luongo will instead be minding the net for Canada. Brodeur led Canada to gold in the 2002 Salt Lake City Games and has the most wins and shuotouts ever in the NHL, but he struggled in Sunday's 5-3 loss to the U.S.

Canadian Figure Skater to Compete Despite Mother's Sudden Death: When the women's figure skating competition gets underway tonight (February 23rd) with the short program, Canadian Joannie Rochette will be competing, despite the sudden death of her mother Sunday (February 21st) from a massive heart attack just hours after arriving in Vancouver. The 24-year-old Rochette has told Skate Canada she wants to go forward, and was out on the ice practicing Monday as her father wiped away tears while he watched from the stands. Rochette has won six Canadian championships and finished fifth at the 2006 Turin Games.

MEDAL COUNT: The U.S. now has 25 medals overall -- 7 gold, 8 silver and 10 bronze. The U.S. is first in the overall medal count ahead of Germany, which has 21. Norway is third with 14. The U.S. and Germany are tied for first place in gold medals with 7 each. Norway is second with 6, and Canada and Switzerland are tied for third with 5 each.

CHARGERS RELEASE TOMLINSON: The San Diego Chargers released LaDainian Tomlinson yesterday (February 22nd), ending nine years with the team during which he became one of the NFL's greatest running backs. Team president Dean Spanos said in a statement, "This is a part of the business that I hate, and it's particularly hard when you're dealing with someone I consider a friend. Change involving great players is never easy. I respect L.T. as much or more than any player I've ever known. And no one appreciates his contributions to this organization more than I do. That is why this is such a difficult announcement for me to make." Tomlinson, the NFL's MVP in 2006, ranks eighth on the all-time rushing list with 12,490 yards. His 138 career rushing touchdowns rank second, and his 153 total touchdowns rank third.

IVERSON TAKES INDEFINITE LEAVE: The Philadelphia 76ers Allen Iverson has taken an indefinite leave to spend time with his ill four-year-old daughter. Iverson hasn't said what his daughter is suffering from, but team president Ed Stafanski said it was a, quote, "very serious issue." Iverson missed five games and the All-Star Game to be with his family when the health problem arose earlier this month.

(Headline News, FYI and Sports stories were compiled in part from reports by the Associated Press and Reuters.)

ON THE TUBE TODAY!!!

Tuesday, February 23, 2010

CBS

• NCIS (repeat)
• NCIS: LOS ANGELES (repeat)
• THE GOOD WIFE (repeat)

NBC

• XXI WINTER OLYMPICS - 8 PM, Women's Figure Skating (for other times please see Olympic Schedule)

FOX

• AMERICAN IDOL - The Top 12 female semifinalists perform.

ABC

• LOST (repeat)
• LOST - Hurley tries to persuade Jack to go with him on a mysterious mission; Jin has an encounter with an old friend.
• THE FORGOTTEN - The team investigates when an unidentified woman's body is discovered in the wreckage of a train accident.

CW

• 90210 (repeat)
• MELROSE PLACE (repeat)

MTV

• 16 AND PREGNANT - Friends of a pregnant teen despise the father of her child.

USA

• WHITE COLLAR - An old rival challenges Neal to create a forgery of a bottle of wine owned by Ben Franklin.

DAY TIME TALK SHOW

THE ELLEN DEGENERES SHOW - Ewan McGregor, Gordon Ramsay, American Idol castoff Shelby Dressel
THE OPRAH WINFREY SHOW - The Family of Amanda Knox Speaks Out
THE VIEW - Ricky Gervais, cast members from Jersey Shore

LATE NIGHT TALK SHOWS

THE LATE SHOW WITH DAVID LETTERMAN (CBS) - (repeat)
THE TONIGHT SHOW WITH JAY LENO (NBC) - Pre-empted for Olympics coverage
JIMMY KIMMEL LIVE (ABC) - David Spade, "Trailer Park Boys" Rob Wells, Mike Smith & John Paul Tremblay, Miss Willie Brown
THE LATE LATE SHOW WITH CRAIG FERGUSON (CBS) - Stephen Fry
LATE NIGHT WITH JIMMY FALLON (NBC) - Pre-empted for Olympics coverage
LAST CALL WITH CARSON DALY (NBC) - Pre-empted for Olympics coverage
THE DAILY SHOW WITH JON STEWART (COMEDY CENTRAL) - Jeff Garlin
THE COLBERT REPORT (COMEDY CENTRAL) - Olympic coverage with guest TBA
LOPEZ TONIGHT - (repeat)

OFF BEAT BRIEFS

WOMAN SHOOTS AT HUSBAND OVER TAX RETURN: A suburban woman from St. Louis shot at her husband after he refused to give her some of their tax return money. According to the police, the unidentified woman followed her husband to work at a barber shop and fired several shots when he refused to hand over any money. All of the shots missed the man. Investigators said that the woman then threw the gun into the sewer. She turned herself in after receiving a phone call from the police. Daniel O'Conner, the Pine Lawn Assistant Police Chief, said that the woman felt ''more than justified'' for her actions. She is being held on a $75,000 cash-only bail. (AP)

BREAK DANCING TEEN ARRESTED: A teen from Cheektowaga, New York was arrested for causing $3,000 worth of damage to a floor by break dancing. According to Eerie County Sheriff, Timothy B. Howard, the 18-year-old was intoxicated at a house party hosted by the victims' daughter, Elma. The teen reportedly tried to break dance but gouged the floor with his large diamond belt buckle. Police said the victims were vacationing at the time. The teen was arrested and is being charged with felony mischief, and misdemeanor trespassing. (AP)

INDONESIAN STUDENTS ROUNDED UP IN INTERNET CAFES: In Indonesia, police raided Internet cafes in order to round up students who were skipping school to play computer games or chat with online friends. The raids took place in the town of Bandung and is a response to complaints made my parents and teachers about children missing classes. A Bandung city official told reporters that approximately 23 Internet cafes were raided and 89 students, most of who were in uniforms, were rounded up. The students were given a warning and sent back to school. (AFP)

MAN ARRESTED FOR SENDING OVER 500 TEXTS: An Iowa City man has been charged with sending over 500 texts from a cell phone that was stolen. Christopher Smead, 21, is accused of taking a cell phone from a locker at a fitness center and using it without the owner's consent. According to police, Smead sent text messages from early Friday into the late evening. When Smead was arrested, he was also charged with carrying an air pistol. Smead pleaded guilty to fifth-degree theft and is currently serving a 30 day sentence for his offenses. (AP)

DID YOU KNOW?

PEOPLE TRUST SUBWAY FOR DIET FOOD; TACO BELL? NOT SO MUCH: A survey by Decision Analyst shows more people trust Subway than any other fast food joint when it comes to pseudo-healthy claims, although only 24 percent of people buy the claims. Taco Bell was the least-trusted for diet food of the companies surveyed, garnering the trust of only 7.5 percent of those surveyed.

BARS AND LIQUOR STORES LEAD TO VIOLENCE: The more bars and liquor stores in an area, the more violence there will be, a new study finds. Researchers compared crime statistics and listings of liquor licenses in Cincinnati to determine the connection. Convenience stores and carry-out sites that sold alcohol were the most strongly associated with assaults, but bars and restaurants that serve alcohol are also correlated with violence. In fact, the statistics showed that adding one more liquor store per square mile would lead to 2.3 more simple assaults and 0.6 more aggravated assaults in the area. (Live Science)

MORE SENIORS SMOKING POT: Marijuana use among seniors is growing. The number of people aged 50 and older reporting marijuana use in the prior year went up from 1.9 percent to 2.9 percent from 2002 to 2008, according to surveys from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. The rise was most dramatic among 55- to 59-year-olds, whose reported marijuana use more than tripled from 1.6 percent in 2002 to 5.1 percent. Observers expect further increases as 78 million boomers born between 1945 and 1964 age. For many boomers, the drug never held the stigma it did for previous generations, and they tried it decades ago. (Fox News)

BRITISH SCHOOLS CLOSING; STRIP CLUBS ON THE RISE: The number of traditional business and community services in Britain have declined in recent years while "less wholesome" businesses are on the rise. The Daily Mail reports that since 1997, the number of police stations has fallen by 160, the number of hospitals and clinics is down by 580, while the number of schools has dropped by a staggering 2,380. On the other hand, casinos numbers have increased by 27 percent and lap dancing clubs have jumped from 24 to 300.

CHEESE CONSUMPTION IS SOARING: Cheese-eating is on the rise! A new report by Global Industry Analysts, Inc. found that world cheese consumption is projected to reach 21 million metric tons by 2015 -- marking a 20 percent growth from 2008. Growth will primarily be driven by improving income levels, strengthening consumer sentiment/confidence, waxing propensity to spend, and increase in the adoption of western-styled food across Asian countries.

YOU'RE 10,000 STEPS AWAY FROM BETTER HEALTH: The Global Corporate Challenge (GCC) looked at 60,000 workers in 55 countries who aimed to walk 10,000 steps every day for eight months. At the end of the challenge, 67 percent of participants reported an increase in fitness and energy levels and participants lost an average of 10 pounds each -- just from walking. After four months of taking part in the study, the number of GCC participants with high blood pressure was reduced by 34 percent, while waist size was reduced by an average of two inches. Participants who stuck to walking 10,000 steps, which equals almost five miles, a day for one year were able to maintain blood pressure, keep the weight off and decrease their BMI.

MEN AND THEIR MORALS (Men's Health)

1 in 14 men say they've taken credit for work they didn't do.

2 in 7 men would follow a boss's orders to do something unethical.

2 in 5 men would call the cops on a buddy for having twisted, violent pornography on his home computer.

Number of men who says it's fine to misrepresent yourself to enter into an online relationship: 2 in 7.

SHOULD THESE BE OLYMPIC SPORTS? (TheFrisky.com)

Cheerleading: There was nothing for competitive cheerleaders to rah rah about when their IOC application, to be considered for the 2012 Olympics, was denied. But these cheerleaders won't let their perky smiles fade ... maybe 2016 will be their year to do back flips? [Wiki Answers]

Golf: It's bad news for the sport of golf in 2012. The IOC decided that there will be no holes-in-one at the 2012 Olympics, but they are planning on letting athletes tee up in 2016. Tiger Woods should be out of sex rehab by then. [World Golf]

Karate: Even though karate was one of the final two nominees by the IOC, the martial art failed to chop through with two-thirds of the vote. Because those who practice karate are non-violent, no one at the IOC will be harmed. [Associated Content]

Women's Boxing: It's a TKO for the fiercest of the fierce female boxers. After many rounds of petitions, they will be competing in five weight categories in the 2012 Olympics. Awesome! [Guardian]

Squash: Professional squash players' dreams were squashed after their campaign to be an Olympic sport was denied by the IOC. [BBC]

IMPOSSIBLE QUESTION

How many U.S. presidents did not attend college?

A: Eight.

• George Washington, Andrew Jackson, Martin Van Buren, Zachary Taylor, Millard Fillmore, Abraham Lincoln, Andrew Johnson, and Grover Cleveland (who was both the 22nd and 24th president).

Source: AskMen.com

Figure Skaters Actually Have Rules for Their Costumes

It may not seem like it from some of the outlandish costumes that have been on display during the figure skating and ice dancing competitions at the Vancouver Olympics, but the skaters actually have rules they have to follow for what they're allowed to wear. Yahoo! Sports' "Fourth Place Medal" blog laid out the International Skating Union rules, including the directive: "Competitors must be modest, dignified and appropriate for athletic competition -- not garish or theatrical in design." There can't be an effect of excessive nudity, and props and accessories are banned. Men must wear trousers, not tights, and skirts that covered the hips and bottom were mandatory for women until 2004, after which pants were allowed. Sleeveless costumes also were allowed until the 1990s. Any costume violations -- which are rare -- have a mandatory 1.00 point deduction, a hefty penalty which is the same that's taken off when skaters fall.

More Generations of Families Living Together

More families are consolidating and having parent, kids and grandparents all living together under one roof, as Americans are facing high unemployment and a housing crisis all at the same time. A survey out yesterday (February 22nd) from Coldwell Banker Real Estate in Parisppany, New Jersey, found the demand is rising for multi-generational homes, including ones with separate entrances for the grandparents. Not only are the grandparents moving in, but college graduates having an increasingly tough time finding jobs are also returning home. According to the survey, financial concerns was the top reason for the increase in multi-generational housing, followed by health concerns with strong family bonds a distant third.

Five Ways You Can Increase Your Happiness

There are five simple steps related to positive thinking that you can take to increase your happiness, according to a recent review done by University of California psychologist Sonja Lyubomirsky and her colleagues of 51 studies that looked at ways to boost happiness, LiveScience.com reported. They are:

1. Be grateful -- People who wrote letters of gratitude to others who'd helped them in some way -- even if they didn't send the letters -- reported a lasting increase in happiness over weeks and months after beginning the habit.
2. Be optimistic -- People who visualized an ideal future, such as having a loving partner or finding a fulfilling job, and described the image in a journal reported increased feelings of well-being after a few weeks.
3. Count your blessings -- People who wrote down three good things that have happened to them every week showed significant boosts in happiness.
4. Use your strengths -- People asked to identify their greatest strengths and then told to try to use them in new ways had increased happiness. As an example, a person with a good sense of humor could lighten up business meetings with jokes.
5. Commit acts of kindness -- People who donated time or money to charity, or who helped people in need, reported improvements in their own happiness.

KFLAG COUNTRY MUSIC UPDATE

Blake Shelton admits that he's so addicted to Twitter he's taking a break from the social networking site. He admits to having sent 100 Tweets a day, so he's decided to quit completely for now. In a Facebook chat, Shelton told fans,"Twitter got to be for me a little bit of an addiction. About a week ago or two weeks ago, I deleted the application off of my phone because I wanted a break for two or three weeks. It gives the tree huggers a deep breath knowing I won't be popping off at 'em anytime soon."

• According to The Boot, Blake also told fans that although he's landed a couple of movie roles, acting isn't really a big goal for him -- he's meant to be a country singer.
• Shelton will announce the nominees for the 45th annual ACM Awards on March 2nd.

CHECK IT OUT: You Know You're Addicted to Twitter When: http://tinyurl.com/qgt4fm

Alan Jackson has his daughter to thank for the concept of his new "It's Just That Way" video, debuting today (Monday, February 22nd). Mattie Jackson, who's a sophomore at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, says, "The video depicts a backwards reality, with metaphors of nature's undeniable realities. And illustrates a love that is as pure and dependable as the sun rising in the sky." The clip was filmed at a farmhouse in Spring Hill, Tennessee, as well as on location in Tampa, Florida.

Jackson, meanwhile, says the song's lyrics reminds him of his own marriage:"I kind of liked it 'cause, you know, Denise and I think about it on kind of, you know, a more personal level, it sometimes is, reminds me of Denise and I we've been together forever and, you know, sometimes we just think back of where we started and how it all happened and it was just like we were it was supposed to be, it's just that way, we were supposed to be that way. I was supposed to be, you know, with her and vice versa, but, so, I liked the song."

Jackson tells us why he likes the "It's Just That Way:"It's a simple lyric, but it says it all, and when I heard that, I just I immediately loved the melody; it's just a really beautiful melody. That thing is, it's hard for me to sing. It's kind of rangy for me, but it's a cool melody, and it's one of those that I wish I had written."

• "It's Just That Way" was written by Keith Stegall, Vicky McGehee and Kylie Sackley. Jackson says, "It's such a beautiful melody, I wish I'd written it myself."
• The song will appear on Jackson's upcoming album, Freight Train, due out March 30th.

CHECK IT OUT: 23 Ways to Keep Romance Alive: http://tinyurl.com/mr8nn

Lady Antebellum has unveiled the music video for the new single, "American Honey," on Oprah.com. The clip is the first music video the Oprah Winfrey has ever debuted. Friday (February 19th) also marked Lady Antebellum's first-ever appearance on the The Oprah Winfrey Show where the trio performed "Need You Now" and "Run to You."

Lady Antebellum's Dave Haywood says the band members knew they want to record "American Honey" as soon as they heard it. He adds, "It's one that features Hillary [Scott] on lead. And I think it's a message that we want to have out there that as crazy as the times get for our job and anybody's job, you have to remember when life was a little simpler and a little sweeter.

• Lady Antebellum is currently out with Tim McGraw on his Southern Voice tour.

CHECK IT OUT: Watch the video here: www.oprah.com/ladyantebellum

Rascal Flatts bassist/pianist Jay DeMarcus has taken to his Twitter page to clear up comments he made in a recent interview with County Forever. DeMarcus says he was not blasting the reality show, explaining, "For those who have read my comments about 'American Idol,' I was not 'speaking out against' it! In some cases, instant stardom may not be the best thing. This certainly does not apply across the board."

He adds that the more time artists spend honing their craft in smaller venues the better off they are. DeMarcus notes, "I have a lot of friends that were a part of idol. I continue to be a huge fan of the show. Sometimes words in print, sound twisted out of context. Whew!! Now I need a drink!!"

• Rascal Flatts have performed on the Idol Gives Back charity show in previous seasons.
• The group is currently on its American Living Unstoppable tour.

CHECK IT OUT: Follow DeMarcus on Twitter: http://twitter.com/JayDeMARCUS

Miranda Lambert is gearing up for her Roadside Bars And Pink Guitars tour, which kicks off March 18th in Beckley, West Virginia. Twenty-two cities have been announced, with more on the way. She'll have various opening acts on the road with her, including David Nail, James Otto, Randy Houser and Wade Bowen among others.

Although the upcoming outing will mark Lambert's first-ever official headlining trek, she's no stranger to touring the country. She says, "In the last 5 years, I have learned so much from all the amazing artists I've toured with. Now it's my turn to venture out and do more shows of my own. I'm happy that there are a lot of great new artists who are willing to come out and support my tour."

Lambert tells us what life is like on the road: "I mean, that's my lifestyle, but it's my job. I see the concrete at a venue and the bleachers. I don't see stuff. I don't get to go to a campground usually somewhere in the middle of Montana. I'm at a venue, so even though I travel around for a living and have this gypsy lifestyle, I really don't get to enjoy it as much as I would if I didn't actually have to work while I was doin' it."

Lambert tells us how she'd want to live and travel if she weren't on the road all the time:"I'm obsessed with Airstreams for some reason, even though I travel around on a million dollar tour bus. I don't know why I'm not satisfied with that, but I just think it's just such a free way to live. Like, if you could just live on an Airstream and just wherever you put on the brakes is your home for however long. I think that's really cool."

• In addition to her own headlining tour, Lambert will take part in Bonnaroo and Lilith Fair this year.
• Lambert will be touring behind her Revolution album, featuring the single "White Liar."

Jewel has signed on as a celebrity blogger on AOL's The Boot, and in her latest entry she dishes on what life was like growing up on a ranch in Alaska. She also includes sentimental family photos, ranging from her own father's childhood through today to help tell her story. She writes, "I was raised on this homestead, and while I had it much easier than my father's generation, we still worked hard to live off the land. My days were filled milking cows with my brothers, keeping the garden so we could can the harvest in the fall, weeding our immense potato field, cutting the Timothy Blue Grass for hay in the fall, collecting berries to make jams, rounding up our small herd of Herford cattle in the spring and fall, and inevitably slaughtering a few steers to get us through the winter."

• Jewel then compares her childhood to what it's like living on a ranch these days with her husband, Ty Murray.
• Jewel is currently working on a new album, which she hopes to release this year.

CHECK IT OUT: Read Jewel's blog here:
http://www.theboot.com/2010/02/19/jewel-blog-2/

Taylor Swift's guitar was up to to $8,000 on the auction block as of Sunday (February 21st). Proceeds of the online auction will benefit the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. The auction ends February 26th. Check it out here: http://www.countrymusichalloffame.org/auctions/view/1

Rascal Flatts will gather next week in Nashville to celebrate their 10th anniversary. It's been a nearly a decade -- to the day -- since the release of their debut single, "Prayin' For Daylight." Rascal Flatts' Gary LeVox, Jay DeMarcus and Joe Don Rooney want to thank country radio for their support. DeMarcus says, "We would never have been able to do what we've done without them, it's that simple. So, we wanted to take a moment to tell them face to face how much we appreciate their constant support of Rascal Flatts and our music; a moment to celebrate all we've accomplished together and toast to what lies ahead." A party will be held at Nashville's Renaissance Hotel on February 24th.

The Zac Brown Band will be among the headliners at the first Hangout Beach, Music and Arts Festival in Gulf Shores, Alabama on May 14th-16th. Additional performers will include Alison Krauss & Union Station, Jerry Jeff Walker, among others.

COUNTRY TRIVIA

Q. Where did Dierks Bentley get his first name?
A. It is the maiden name of his maternal grandmother.

TODAY'S BIRTHDAYS:

• Sparky Anderson (Baseball Hall-Of-Famer and the only manager to win the World Series in each league) (76)
• Drew Barrymore (actress, 50 First Dates, Charlie's Angels, Never Been Kissed, E.T.) (35)
• Julius "Dr. J" Erving (NBA Hall Of Famer) (60)
• Kyle MacLachlan (actor, Twin Peaks, Blue Velvet, Sex And The City, currently on ABC's Desperate Housewives) (51)
• Don Pardo (TV announcer best known for being the voice of Saturday Night Live) (92)
• Jeri Ryan (actress, Star Trek: Voyager's Seven Of Nine) (42)
• Ellen Greene (actress, Next Stop Greenwich Village, Little Shop Of Horrors) (59)
• James Blunt (British pop musician) (36)
• Harvey Mason (jazz drummer) (63)
• Julie Walters (actress, Educating Rita, Buster, Billy Elliot, Molly Weasley in the Harry Potter movies) (60)
• Rachel Dratch (actress, Saturday Night Live, Down With Love, Dickie Roberts: Former Child Star) (44)
• Bobby Hendricks (member of the Drifters) (72)
• Jonathan Demme (director, The Silence of the Lambs, Philadelphia, Beloved, Rachel Getting Married) (66)

ON THIS DATE:

• Bill Monroe won his first bluegrass Grammy Award for his album Southern Flavor in 1989.
• B.J. Thomas's (Hey Won't You Play) Another Somebody Done Somebody Wrong Song" charted in 1975.
• Flatt & Scruggs gave their final performance on the Grand Ole Opry in 1969.
• In 2001, Alabama's Randy Owen and Brooks and Dunn were among the mourners gathered in Charlotte, North Carolina to remember NASCAR driver Dale Earnhardt, who had died in a crash at the Daytona 500 days earlier. Randy performed at the service.

COUNTRY TRIVIA

Q. Where did Dierks Bentley get his first name?
A. It is the maiden name of his maternal grandmother.

TODAY'S BIRTHDAYS:

• Sparky Anderson (Baseball Hall-Of-Famer and the only manager to win the World Series in each league) (76)
• Drew Barrymore (actress, 50 First Dates, Charlie's Angels, Never Been Kissed, E.T.) (35)
• Julius "Dr. J" Erving (NBA Hall Of Famer) (60)
• Kyle MacLachlan (actor, Twin Peaks, Blue Velvet, Sex And The City, currently on ABC's Desperate Housewives) (51)
• Don Pardo (TV announcer best known for being the voice of Saturday Night Live) (92)
• Jeri Ryan (actress, Star Trek: Voyager's Seven Of Nine) (42)
• Ellen Greene (actress, Next Stop Greenwich Village, Little Shop Of Horrors) (59)
• James Blunt (British pop musician) (36)
• Harvey Mason (jazz drummer) (63)
• Julie Walters (actress, Educating Rita, Buster, Billy Elliot, Molly Weasley in the Harry Potter movies) (60)
• Rachel Dratch (actress, Saturday Night Live, Down With Love, Dickie Roberts: Former Child Star) (44)
• Bobby Hendricks (member of the Drifters) (72)
• Jonathan Demme (director, The Silence of the Lambs, Philadelphia, Beloved, Rachel Getting Married) (66)

ON THIS DATE:

• Bill Monroe won his first bluegrass Grammy Award for his album Southern Flavor in 1989.
• B.J. Thomas's (Hey Won't You Play) Another Somebody Done Somebody Wrong Song" charted in 1975.
• Flatt & Scruggs gave their final performance on the Grand Ole Opry in 1969.
• In 2001, Alabama's Randy Owen and Brooks and Dunn were among the mourners gathered in Charlotte, North Carolina to remember NASCAR driver Dale Earnhardt, who had died in a crash at the Daytona 500 days earlier. Randy performed at the service.

CELEBRITY GOSSIP!

'FAMILY TIES' ACTOR ARRESTED: Former child star Brian Bonsall was arrested in court on Friday (February 19th) after testing positive for marijuana, which violated the terms of his probation on an assault charge. TMZ.com reports that Bonsall, who played Andy on Family Ties, claims that he needs marijuana for headaches and has applied for a medical marijuana card. The assault charge stemmed from a December incident in which Bonsall allegedly used a broken stool to hit a friend in the face. The 28-year-old also pleaded not guilty to an assault charge and a failure to report charge involving another case.

HOGANS SETTLE LAWSUIT: Hulk and Nick Hogan have settled the lawsuit brought against them by John Graziano, the passenger in Nick's car who was seriously injured during the reality star's 2007 crash. TMZ.com reported that the Hogan's attorney would not reveal the terms of the settlement but is "pleased as this was in the best interest of John." He added that the decision was "as painless as possible" for families.

ALLEGED AUDRINA PATRIDGE STALKER ARRESTED: A man accused of stalking Audrina Patridge was arrested outside her Los Angeles home on Friday (February 19th). TMZ.com reports that Patridge was granted a three-year restraining order against Zachary Loring last September after claiming he had shown up on her doorstep several times and refused to leave the actress and her brother -- who lives with her -- alone despite repeated requests. Loring was arrested after someone staying at the home called emergency services to report the fact he was outside the property. He was subsequently booked for stalking and violating a restraining order.

'BROTHERS & SISTERS' STAR ENGAGED: Brothers & Sisters star Dave Annable is engaged. A rep for the actor confirmed that he proposed to 24-year-old October Road actress Odette Yustman while in Santa Barbara over Valentine's Day weekend. The couple has been dating for a year and a half.

'DEADLIEST CATCH' STAR ARRESTED: Deadliest Catch star Jake Harris was arrested in Seattle on drunk driving and hit and run charges after crashing his car last Thursday (February 18th) night. People magazine reports that the 24-year-old has been struggling with grief following the death of his father, Captain Phil Harris, earlier this month. Washington State Patrol spokesman Dan McDonald said, "He failed a field sobriety test and refused to take a toxicological test. After further investigation, it was found that he was involved in a hit and run with another occupied vehicle earlier in the evening. He had rear-ended another car." His bail was set at $2,000.

DANIEL CRAIG IS NOT MARRIED: Despite rumors, Daniel Craig has not married his longtime girlfriend, Satsuki Mitchell. After the actor was spotted wearing a ring on his wedding finger, a source told the Daily Mail, "We all suspect they have got married. He has always said Satsuki is the one but he didn't want a big showbiz wedding, that would be his worst nightmare. He's very private." However, a source close to Craig confirmed to GossipCop.com that the actor and Mitchell are "not married." The rings supposedly represent the long-time couple's commitment to each other, but not any new official or legal status.

'HEROES' STAR CHARGED WITH DUI: Heroes star Adrian Pasdar was officially charged with DUI stemming from his January arrest in Los Angeles. The actor, who played Senator Nathan Petrelli on the show, was pulled over on January 27th after cops say they found him going 90 MPH on the 405 Freeway. After conducting a field sobriety test, cops eventually arrested Pasdar and held him on $15,000 bail. Pasdar is due back in court on February 24th and faces up to six months in jail and a $1,000 fine.

WEEKEND MOVIE WRAP-UP

Martin Scorsese's thriller Shutter Island opened well in first place at the weekend box office, its $40.2 million take marking the best opening ever for both the director and the movie's star, Leonardo DiCaprio. Set in 1954, Shutter Island stars DiCaprio and Mark Ruffalo as U.S. marshals who go to a hospital for the criminally insane on a island off the coast of Massachusetts to investigate the disappearance of a patient. The marshals encounter a web of deceit and become involved in an inmate riot that leaves them trapped on the island. Michelle Williams and Sir Ben Kingsley also co-star in the movie, which marks the fourth collaboration between Scorcese and DiCaprio after Gangs of New York, The Aviator and The Departed.

• Last week's top movie, Valentine's Day, fell to second place.
• The Roman Polanski thriller The Ghost Writer got off to a big start in limited release, playing at four theaters in New York City and Los Angeles. It stars Ewan McGregor as a writer hired to punch up the memoirs of a former British prime minister, played by Pierce Brosnan, who's been accused of ordering the abduction of terrorism suspects and handing them over for torture by the CIA.

THIS WEEKEND'S TOP TEN MOVIES -- FEBRUARY 19-21

1. Shutter Island, $40.2 million
2. Valentine's Day, $17.2 million
3. Avatar, $16.1 million
4. Percy Jackson & the Olympians: The Lightning Thief, $15.3 million
5. The Wolfman, $9.8 million
6. Dear John, $7.3 million
7. The Tooth Fairy, $4.5 million
8. Crazy Heart, $3 million
9. From Paris With Love, $2.5 million
10. Edge of Darkness, $2.2 million

HOLLYWOOD NEWS

ROMAN POLANSKI WINS AWARD: Roman Polanski was named as best director for his film The Ghost Writer at the Berlin International Film Festival. The director was unable to attend the ceremony, as he's currently on house arrest in Switzerland as the country's government considers his extradition to the United States over his conviction of having sex with a minor in 1977. Alain Sarde, producer of The Ghost Writer, accepted the award for Polanski, saying, "I am sure Roman will be very happy." He added, "However, when I was lamenting with him that he cannot be with us, he said to me, 'Even if I could, I wouldn't because the last time I went to a festival to get a prize, I ended up in jail.' " Polanski was arrested last September after he arrived to accept a lifetime achievement award at the Zurich Film Festival.

SACHA BARON COHEN CONSIDERED AS OSCAR HOST? Sacha Baron Cohen was the Oscar producers' first choice when they were brainstorming hosts for the 2010 awards. Bill Mechanic and Adam Shankman said that Academy bosses "laughed off" the idea of Cohen's characters Borat, Ali G and Bruno headlining the show. Shankman said, "The Academy swatted it (idea) down. They thought it was too big of a wild card."

NO OCTO-MOM DATING SHOW: Despite reports, there will be no Octo-Mom dating show on the Game Show Network. PerezHilton.com reports that Nadya Suleman did in fact meet with executives at the network, but they declined to give her a screen test.

TIGER WOODS BREAKS SILENCE

Tiger Woods broke his silence on Friday (February 19th), admitting to the public that he cheated on his wife, apologizing for his "irresponsible" behavior, and pledging to make things right again.

Reading from a prepared statement, the golfer said, "I am deeply sorry for my irresponsible and selfish behavior I engaged in."He admitted that he's been in treatment since December, and said that he is returning to continue bettering himself for his wife and family.

As far as returning to the PGA Tour, Tiger said, "I do plan to return to golf one day; I just don't know when that day will be. I don't rule out that it will be this year. When I do return I need to make my behavior more respectful of the game."

He cleared up widespread reports that his wife had hit him back in November, telling the reporters that domestic violence has never occurred in their marriage -- and blasting those who maligning Elin's reputation. He said: "Some people have speculated that Elin somehow hurt or attacked me on Thanksgiving night. It angers me that people would fabricate a story like that. Elin never hit me that night or any other night. There has never been an episode of domestic violence in our marriage...ever. Elin has shown enormous grace and poise throughout this ordeal. Elin deserves praise not blame."

Tiger did not try to sugar coat his affairs. He said, "I was unfaithful, I had affairs, I cheated. What I did was not acceptable and I am the only person to blame."

He tried to explain his bad behavior, saying: "I ran straight through the boundaries that a married couple should live by. I thought I could get away with whatever I wanted to. I felt that I had worked hard my entire life and deserved to enjoy all the temptations around me. I felt I was entitled. Thanks to money and fame I didn't have to go far to find them. I was wrong, I was foolish, I don't get to play by different rules. The same boundaries that apply to everyone apply to me."

Addressing his treatment, he said: "For 45 days, from the end of December to early February, I was in inpatient therapy receiving guidance for the issues I'm facing. I have a long way to go."

Tiger also gave the public some insight into his religion. He said: "I have a lot of work to do and I tend to dedicate myself to doing it. Part of following this path, for me, is Buddhism which my mother taught me at a young age. People probably don't realize it, but I was raised a Buddhist and I actively practiced my faith from childhood until I drifted away from it in recent years."

He concluded: "Today, I want to ask for your help. I ask you to find room in your heart to one day believe in me again. Thank you."

Reaction to Tiger Woods public apology on Friday (February 19th) continues to roll in. Woods' statement -- in which he admitted "I was unfaithful, I had affairs, I cheated" -- was made before a handpicked audience of friends and supporters at PGA headquarters. It lasted just 13 minutes and ended with Tiger receiving an extended hug from his mother. During the statement Woods said he wasn't sure when he would return to golf, that he was returning to rehab almost immediately, and asked the press to leave his wife and children alone.

TIGER'S MOTHER SAYS 'I'M PROUD OF MY SON': Immediately after Woods' speech, his mother Kultida Woods, who rarely speaks to the press, told the media that she was proud of her son and had told him so during their long hug. "Some of media, especially tabloid, hurt my son bad," said Mrs. Woods, who was raised in Thailand. "Sometimes think there double standard. He didn't do anything illegal. He didn't kill anybody. But he try to improve himself. He try to go to therapy and help. He change that and making better. When he go do all this thing, he will come out stronger and better person."

• She added: "I never condemn my son. That's the way you go through life. When make a mistake, admit. We not God. He never claimed he was God. If somebody condemn him, look at themselves first. You don't know how difficult it is to be Tiger. Not many people want to be. Not easy to be him. Just like somebody go to work 8 to 5 and go home to have a life with family. Tiger can't do that."

ELIN SPOTTED AT A LOCAL SHOPPING MALL: While Woods was making his statement, Elin Nordegren was spotted at a local shopping mall with the couple's 2-year-old daughter Sam. According to the New York Daily News, Elin was shopping at the Windermere Mall, not far from the couple's Florida home.

TIGER & ELIN LEAVE ON A JET PLANE: Though wife Elin Nordegren was noticeable absent from Friday's press statement, Woods reportedly joined her on Saturday. According to RadarOnline.com, the pair played an hour of tennis together late Saturday afternoon before preparing for the flight. They then headed to the airport in separate cars, surrounded by heavy security, and boarded one of Tiger's private jets with their two children. The plane took off at 7 p.m. ET. No word on whether they were heading back to the Mississippi rehab center where Woods was being treated for a sex addiction.

TIGER'S RETURN TO GOLF DEBATED: Golf fans were surprised to hear Tiger say, "I do plan to return to golf one day, I just don't know when that day will be. I don't rule out that it will be this year." TMZ.com, had reported last month that the golf champion will play the March 22nd and 23rd Tavistock Cup at Isleworth Golf & Country Club that pits pros from the Isleworth, Florida, club against nearby rival Nona Golf & Country Club. Tiger also reportedly planned to play The Masters tournament this year.

BETTY WHITE MAY HOST 'SNL' SPECIAL

In the wake of Facebook's massive campaign to get Betty White a hosting gig on Saturday Night Live, EW.com is reporting that the former Golden Girl might be appearing on the show. The website, however, noted that White would not be hosting a traditional show -- rather she would be part of a "Women of Comedy" special that SNL is putting together.

EW.com reports that White is very close to signing on for the show -- which would also tentatively feature SNL alums Molly Shannon, Tina Fey and Amy Poehler.

• This would reportedly allow Lorne Michaels to "appease White-on-SNL zealots without making the 88-year-old shoulder the burden of all 90 minutes on her own."

ANGELINA JOLIE REUNITES WITH DAD JON VOIGHT

Angelina Jolie reunited with her father Jon Voight in Italy over the weekend. The two have been estranged for most of the past decade, and Sunday's (February 21st) outing marked the first time they have been photographed together in years.

People.com posted pictures of the father-daughter duo, along with Brad Pitt and the couple's children, on a trip down Venice's Grand Canal.

• The estrangement reportedly began after Voight expressed concerns about his daughter's mental well-being to the media.
• The Jolie-Pitts have been photographed all over Venice during the past week, as Jolie prepares to film The Tourist with Johnny Depp. Some bloggers have suggested that their happy family outings were staged for the sake of the paparazzi.

'GROWING PAINS' ACTOR ANDREW KOENIG IS MISSING

Actor Andrew Koenig, who played Boner on Growing Pains, is missing. GossipCop.com reports that Koenig was last seen on February 14th in Vancouver. He was supposed to be on a flight to the United States on February 16th but didn't make it.

His sister, Danielle Koenig, confirms that he was in the city to visit friends but says she has not been heard from. She said, "Any information we can get on his whereabouts would be helpful."

A burlesque dancer named Jenny Magenta wrote on her Facebook page that Koenig stayed with her in Vancouver before going missing. She claims Koenig's parents describe him as "severely depressed."

• Famous names like Sarah Silverman, Alyssa Milano, Kevin Smith and comedian Doug Benson have all tweeted their concern.
• Gossip Cop said that anyone with information about Koenig should contact Detective Raymond Payette of the Vancouver Police Department at (604) 717-2534.

DAKOTA FANNING CELEBRATES SWEET SIXTEEN

Dakota Fanning celebrated her Sweet 16 early. E! reports that the New Moon actress, whose actual birthday is tomorrow, held a party with 40 of her closest family and friends at Beverly Hills hotspot Villa Blanca on Saturday (February 20th) night.

A source noted that Fanning's parents were in attendance -- and the actress did not have a date.

• The insider told E!, "She looked like she was having fun and was really cool. She was talking to her friends and laughing all night." The group headed out around 11 p.m.
• When asked if turning 16 meant she'd be getting her driver's license, Fanning told E!, "I don't even have permit."

'THE HURT LOCKER' DOMINATES BAFTA AWARDS

The Hurt Locker dominated Sunday (February 21st) night's British Academy of Film and Television Arts awards (BAFTAs), further setting expectations for Oscar glory. The Iraqi war drama picked up six trophies -- the most of the night -- including victories in the Best Film, Director, and Original Screenplay categories.

Avatar won two awards, while Brits Colin Firth and Carey Mulligan won top acting honors over American favorites like Jeff Bridges and Meryl Streep. Sandra Bullock wasn't eligible since The Blind Side didn't open in the UK in time for consideration.

The winners were:

• Film, The Hurt Locker
• Director, Kathryn Bigelow, The Hurt Locker
• Actor, Colin Firth, A Single Man
• Actress, Carey Mulligan, An Education
• Supporting Actor, Christoph Waltz, Inglourious Basterds
• Supporting Actress, Mo'Nique, Precious
• Original Screenplay, Mark Boal, The Hurt Locker
• Adapted Screenplay, Jason Reitman & Sheldon Turner, Up in the Air
• British Film, Fish Tank
• Animated Film, Up
• Film Not in the English Language, A Prophet
• Editing, The Hurt Locker
• Cinematography, The Hurt Locker
• Production Design, Avatar
• Hair & Makeup, The Young Victoria
• Costume Design, The Young Victoria
• Visual Effects, Avatar
• Sound, The Hurt Locker
• Music, Up
• British Debut, Duncan Jones, Moon
• Orange Rising, Star Kristen Stewart
• Short Animation, Mother of Many
• Short Film, I Do Air

CHECK IT OUT: See the red carpet fashion: http://tinyurl.com/yfkl9pq

The Hurt Locker and Up in the Air won top honors at Saturday's (February 20th) Writers Guild of America (WGA) Awards. Up in the Air screenwriters Jason Reitman and Sheldon Turner won for Best Adapted Screenplay, while The Hurt Locker's Mark Boal took home the award for Original Screenplay.

In the television categories, Mad Men and 30 Rock were named the best-written drama and comedy series.

• The films are now considered favorites to win those categories at the Oscars on March 7th.

The complete list of winners is as follows:

• Original Screenplay: The Hurt Locker, Mark Boal
• Adapted Screenplay: Up in the Air, Jason Reitman and Sheldon Turner
• Documentary Screenplay: The Cove, Mark Monroe
• TV Drama Series: Mad Men
• TV Comedy Series: 30 Rock
• New TV Series: Modern Family
• TV Episodic Drama: "Broken, Part 1 and Part 2" (House)
• TV Episodic Comedy: "Apollo, Apollo" (30 Rock)
• Long Form Original: Georgia O'Keeffe
• Long Form Adaptation: Taking Chance
• Animation: "Wedding for Disaster" (The Simpsons)
• Comedy/Variety Series: (tie) Saturday Night Live; The Daily Show With Jon Stewart
• Comedy/Variety Special: Film Independent's 2009 Spirit Awards
• Serial: The Young and the Restless
• Children's Episodic: "Welcome to the Jungle" (The Troop)
• Children's Long Form: Another Cinderella Story
• TV Documentary (Current Events): "The Madoff Affair" (Frontline)
• TV Documentary (Other): "The Trials of J. Robert Oppenheimer" (American Experience)
• News: World News With Charles Gibson
• News Analysis, Feature or Commentary: "A Private War: Expose: America's Investigative Reports" (Bill Moyers Journal)

Geico Fiddle Commercial - Charlie Daniels Violin

HEADLINE NEWS!!

Monday, February 22, 2010

OBAMA TO PROPOSE REGULATION OF HEALTH INSURANCE INCREASES: President Obama will today (February 22nd) propose giving the federal government the power to block excessive rate increases by health insurance companies, as he unveils legislation to overhaul the health care system. Obama's legislation is meant to bridge the differences between the bills passed by the House and Senate, and comes ahead of the planned televised meeting with Republicans on health care Thursday. The rate increase regulation proposal comes amid outrage over recent premium increases of 39 percent by Anthem Blue Cross of California. Today's proposal will be the first comprehensive health care legislation from the White House.

TOYOTA BOASTED OF SAVING $100 MILLION WITH LIMITED RECALL: Toyota officials boasted in an internal presentation in July 2009 about saving the company $100 million by successfully negotiating with the U.S. government for a limited recall of floor mats in some Toyota and Lexus vehicles in September 2007. The revelation comes in new documents shared with congressional investigators looking into whether the car company put its profits ahead of customer safety by not issuing the more recent extensive recalls earlier, pushing regulators to narrow their scope. The documents also cite millions of dollars in other savings by delaying safety regulations, avoiding defect investigations and slowing down other industry requirements. Toyota recalled 8.5 million vehicles in recent months over safety problems involving gas pedals, floor mats and brakes.

FAMILY OF IRS PLANE ATTACK VICTIM NOTIFIED OF IDENTIFICATION: The family of a longtime IRS employee who was killed when a man with a grudge against the tax agency flew his single-engine plane into the Austin building housing IRS offices Thursday (February 18th) was notified Saturday that his remains had been identified. Sixty-eight-year-old Vernon Hunter was the only person to die in the attack other than the pilot, software engineer Andrew Joseph Stack III. Hunter's son, Ken Hunter, talked to reporters outside his house Saturday, saying he wanted to tell people about his father after hearing on the news about Stack's life and and his anti-tax crusade, as well as seeing Internet postings calling him a hero. Hunter said, "People say [Stack] is a patriot. What's he a patriot for? He hasn't served the country. My dad did two tours of Vietnam and this guy is going to be a patriot and no one is going to say that about my dad? That's what got me started talking. I couldn't stand it anymore." Hunter said of his father, "He was full of life. Probably the best teacher I had in my life."

TODAY'S FYI:

SHUTTLE ENDEAVOUR LANDS IN FLORIDA: The space shuttle landed at Cape Canaveral Sunday (February 21st) with its six astronauts on board, making a rare nighttime landing after a mission that brought the final major parts up to the International Space Station and left it virtually complete. Endeavour delivered and installed a new space station room, called Tranquility, and a domed observation room with sweeping views. All that's left now to complete the station station are four shuttle flights to stock it with more experiments, spare parts and supplies.

EX-NIXON AIDE ALEXANDER HAIG DEAD AT 85: Alexander Haig, who served as White House chief of staff under President Richard Nixon and secretary of state during Ronald Reagan's administration, died Saturday (February 20th) of a staph infection. He was 85. Despite his many accomplishments, one of the things Haig is most remembered for is declaring to the news media, "I'm in control here," after Reagan was shot in the 1981 assassination attempt while Vice President George W. Bush was out of town. Critics slammed the statement, which implied he was next in the line of presidential succession, which wasn't true. Haig was a West Point graduate and former Army general who served in both the Korean and Vietnam Wars. He rose to the position of Army vice chief of staff before resigning in May 1973 to take over as White House chief of staff at the height of the Watergate crisis. He emerged from the scandal largely untainted, and was widely credited with persuading Nixon to resign. Haig attempted his own presidential run in 1988, but he never gained much support, and dropped out as the Republican primaries began.

IN ERA OF FACEBOOK, FEWER COLLEGES PUBLISHING YEARBOOKS: As Facebook membership has exploded and young people are increasingly using it to document their lives and share memories, fewer colleges are publishing yearbooks for their graduates. The University of Virginia, Purdue, Mississippi State and Old Dominion are among the schools that have scrapped yearbooks, citing publishing costs and decreased student demand. A survey conducted last year by yearbook publisher Jostens estimated that about 1,000 colleges still publish yearbooks. Edmund Sullivan, executive director of Columbia Scholastic Press Association, told AP that it was about 2,400 schools just 15 years ago. High school yearbooks are still popular, however, because the schools are usually small and students have different experiences, according to Vicky Wolfe of yearbook provider Herff Jones Inc. She told AP, "At a high school, you're required to be within the four walls of an institution, and in college you're not."

STUDY: NAPS HELP YOU LEARN: Go ahead and nap guilt-free! A new study found that people were able to learn better after napping, LiveScience.com reported Sunday (February 21st). In the study, 39 adults were divided into nap and no-nap groups. They first all performed a learning task at noon, and both performed comparatively. Two hours later, the nap group slept for 90 minutes, while the non-group stayed awake. Then, at 6 p.m., everyone did a new round of learning exercises. The researchers discovered that those who stayed awake become worse at learning, while those who napped did markedly better and actually improved in their capacity to learn. According to LiveScience, the research backs the researchers' hypothesis that sleep is needed to clear out the brain's short-term memory storage and make room for new information.

NEGROHEAD MOUNTAIN RENAMED AFTER BLACK PIONEER: A Southern California mountain previously known as Negrohead Mountain was officially renamed Saturday (February 20th) in honor of an African-American pioneer who settled the area in the 19th century. The 2,031-foot mountain in the Santa Monica range near Malibu was renamed Ballard Mountain after blacksmith John Ballard, a former slave who bought land on it in 1880. A permanent plaque with Ballard's name and story is being placed near the top of the peak. The U.S. Geological Survey's Board on Geographic Names approved the change last year after a request from the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors. Negrohead wasn't actually the mountain's original name; it used to contain a racial slur, but was changed to "negro" in the 1960s.

SPORTS:

VANCOUVER WINTER OLYMPICS:

U.S. Stuns Canada with 5-3 Men's Hockey Upset: The U.S. men's hockey team stunned the Canadians with a 5-3 win last night (February 21st) in the biggest Olympics hockey upset since America's "Miracle on Ice" win over the Soviet Union in 1980, and it took place just one day shy of that game's 30th anniversary. U.S. goalie Ryan Miller performed masterfully, making 42 saves as he blocked a hail of shots, while Brian Rafalski scored two of America's goals in the game played before a rabid pro-Canada crowd on its home soil in Vancouver. The U.S. set the tone early, scoring just 41 seconds into the game, and it ended the same way, with a goal by Ryan Kesler in the final minute as Canada was frantically try to tie the score. The U.S. now advances to the quarterfinals, while Canada -- which had been the gold-medal favorite, must now play against Germany Tuesday (February 23rd) to reach the quarterfinals.

Bode Miller Wins Super-Combined for His First-Ever Gold: It took three Olympics, but American skier Bode Miller finally got a gold medal, winning the super-combined Sunday (February 21st) by posting the best total time from one downhill race and one slalom. After winning a bronze in last Monday's downhill and a silver in Friday's super-G, Miller now has three medals from these games -- with two races to go -- added to the two silvers he won in the 2002 Salt Lake City Games. Miller's performance in Vancouver comes after he flopped in the 2006 games in Turin, when he didn't medal in any of his five races, and after he nearly retired last year.

Ohno's 1,000-Meter Bronze Makes Him Most-Decorated U.S. Winter Olympian: Short-track speedskater Apolo Anton Ohno won bronze in the 1,000-meter final Saturday (February 20th), earning him his seventh Olympic medal, the most by any American ever in the Winter Games, breaking a tie with long-track speedskater Bonnie Blair. Ohno now has two gold, two silver and three bronze medals in his three Olympic appearances, including a silver he won in the 1,500 last weekend. He still has two more events to go in Vancouver.

Lindsey Vonn Wins Bronze in Super-G: American skier Lindsey Vonn won bronze in the super-G on Saturday (February 20th), her second medal in Vancouver after taking the gold in the downhill last week. Austria's Andrea Fischbacher took gold and Tina Maze of Slovenia won silver. Vonn still has two races ahead, the giant slalom on Wednesday and the slalom on Friday.

Speedskater Shani Davis Takes 1,500-Meter Silver: American speedskater Shani Davis won the silver medal in the 1,500-meter event Saturday (February 20th), losing the gold to Mark Tuitert of the Netherlands. Davis, who had been favored in the race, also won silver in the event at the 2006 Turin Games, and after Saturday's finish, he said he'd drop his retirement plans and come back in 2014 to once again try to win gold in the 1,500. Davis won the gold in the 1,000-meter race last week.

MEDAL COUNT: The U.S. now has 24 medals overall -- 7 gold, 7 silver and 10 bronze. The U.S. is first in the overall medal count ahead of Germany, which has 18. Norway is third with 12. The U.S. is also in first place in gold medals with Germany in second with 6. Norway and Switzerland are tied for third with 5 each.

(Headline News, FYI and Sports stories were compiled in part from reports by the Associated Press and Reuters.)

ON THE TUBE TODAY!!!

CBS

• HOW I MET YOUR MOTHER (repeat)
• ACCIDENTALLY ON PURPOSE (repeat)
• TWO AND A HALF MEN (repeat)
• THE BIG BANG THEORY (repeat)
• CSI: MIAMI (repeat)

NBC

• XXI WINTER OLYMPICS - 3 PM, Semifinal and Final round men's and women's Cross Country - team sprints
• XXI WINTER OLYMPICS - 8 PM, Ice Dancing concludes; Freestyle Skiing, Ski Jumping

FOX

• HOUSE (repeat)
• 24 - President Taylor presses on with her international peace process; things get personal when operatives take matters into their own hands.

ABC

• THE BACHELOR: ON THE WINGS OF LOVE - Popular bachelors and bachelorettes from past seasons disucss how the show has changed their lives; Jake faces the women he rejected; unseen footage.
• CASTLE (repeat)

CW

• ONE TREE HILL - Brooke lays into Julian; Lydia's condition gets worse; Clay deals with Katie's unsettling advances.
• LIFE UNEXPECTED - Pressured by management, Ryan and Cate reluctantly let Baze join them on air; Lux tries to persuade Jones to drop the charges against Bug.

FX

• DAMAGES - Patty squares off against the D.A. over access to a key witness; a job candidate asks Ellen for insight about Patty.

TNT

• MEN OF A CERTAIN AGE - Joe has financial problems; Owen and his family have it out; Terry's big break hits a snag.

DAY TIME TALK SHOW

THE ELLEN DEGENERES SHOW - Randy Jackson
THE OPRAH WINFREY SHOW - That's Incredible!
THE VIEW - Sen. Evan Bayh, personal finance expert Jordon E. Goodman

LATE NIGHT TALK SHOWS

THE LATE SHOW WITH DAVID LETTERMAN (CBS) - (repeat)
THE TONIGHT SHOW WITH CONAN O'BRIEN (NBC) - pre-empted for Olympics coverage
JIMMY KIMMEL LIVE (ABC) - (repeat)
THE LATE LATE SHOW WITH CRAIG FERGUSON (CBS) - Parker Posey, Tom Everett Scott
LATE NIGHT WITH JIMMY FALLON (NBC) - pre-empted for Olympics coverage
LAST CALL WITH CARSON DALY (NBC) - pre-empted for Olympics coverage
THE DAILY SHOW WITH JON STEWART (COMEDY CENTRAL) - Ricky Gervais
THE COLBERT REPORT (COMEDY CENTRAL) - Olympic Coverage with guest TBA
LOPEZ TONIGHT - (repeat)

OFF BEAT BRIEFS

WORLD'S SHORTEST MAN WANTS TO BE RECOGNIZED: A 22-inch man from Nepal has set off to Europe in order to be recognized as the world's shortest man in the Guinness World Records. Khagendra Thepa Magar applied to the London-based group in October but has not yet received a response. Magar's family filed a claim when he was 14 years old but the claim was rejected because there was a chance that he may still grow. Doctors have told the family that they are unsure of why Magar is so small. According to Katmandu reporters, Magar and his father have set off for Italy on Sunday as supporters saw them off with bouquets of flowers and garlands. (AP)

WOMAN RECEIVES $1,600 WATER BILL: A woman from Minneapolis received a $1,600 water bill which the city believes to be accurate. Erica Kocur said that this is almost 20 times her normal bill and that she usually pays around $70 to $80 per month. The city believes that Kocur may have had a running toilet or dripping faucet. However, according to KSTP-TV, the bill is charging approximately 200,000 gallons of water; the amount is three times the volume of her entire home. Kocur's shower would have to run nonstop for two months in order to produce such a bill. The city's director, LeeAnn Stag, still believes the bill is correct but it willing to check her meter one more time. (AP)

MAN ARRESTED AFTER BRAGGING TO HAIRDRESSER: A man from Salem, Oregon was arrested after bragging to his hairdresser about setting fire to an old training center. The 20-year-old told his hairdresser that he went into the building on the former Fairview Training Center campus to smoke marijuana, then set the blaze that destroyed the building, according to court records. The man's hairdresser tipped the police, who then arrested the man. There is a second man involved in the arson who was being questioned. Both men were charged of second-degree arson. (AP)

STUDENT WILLINGLY HAS BUTTOCKS BRANDED: A Texas Christian University student willingly had Greek symbols branded into his buttocks by fraternity members. Breckenridge authorities said that no charges will be filed because the student participated in the act willingly. The Summit Daily News said that Arnon Carter IV needed surgery after suffering from second and third-degree burns. According to investigators, what happened to Carter was not part of a fraternity initiation because he was already part of the group. (AP)

DID YOU KNOW?

WOMEN REALLY WANT GEEKS WITH FACIAL HAIR: Most women claim to be attracted to tall, dark and handsome men, but a new study has revealed that facial stubble and a geeky personality are their biggest secret turn-ons. Onepoll.com, which carried out the survey, found that the unshaven look on a man is actually a turn-on for 41 per cent of women. A slightly geeky personality came second, a hairy chest was voted third, followed by a man who loves to read or cries at a sappy film. Other secret turn-ons to feature in the top ten include grey hair, glasses and being a passionate supporter of a sports team. (Daily Mail)

MOST PEOPLE BELIEVE THE INTERNET WILL MAKE US SMARTER: An online survey of 895 Web users and experts found more than three-quarters believe the Internet will make people smarter in the next 10 years. (Imagining the Internet Center)

EATING FOR TWO WHILE PREGNANT IS A MYTH: Mothers-to-be should be warned that 'eating for two' is a myth, according to British Health Service guidelines. The findings indicated that women don't need change their diet at all for the first six months of the pregnancy and even in the last three months they need just 200 extra calories a day. (Daily Mail)

MOST WOMEN WOULD RATHER BE A MAN? A new study by England's Daily Express found that one in four women said she'd rather be a man.

IVY LEAGUE STUDENTS AREN'T GETTING LAID: A 2009 study found that 52 percent Harvard undergrads said they'd had one or fewer partners in their four years there -- and only 28 percent had dated "even one" person. (Lemondrop.com)

HAVE ATHLETES REACHED THEIR PEAK? According to some scientists, elite athletes may have peaked in their abilities. Geoffroy Berthelot, a researcher at the French National Institute of Sport and Physical Education, conducted a study of world records set over the last century. He concluded that the apex of athletic achievement was in 1988, when 11 new world records were established in Olympic events. Seven of those records still stand. More specifically, Berthelot found that 64 percent of the top performances in track and field events haven't been improved on since 1993. (Asylum.com)

IMPOSSIBLE QUESTION

Kelsey Grammer played Fraiser Crane on what three sitcoms?

A: Cheers, Fraiser and Wings (guest appearance)

Source: Wikipedia

U.S. Snowboard Olympic Medal Winner Forced to Go Home Over Risque Photos

American Scotty Lago, the bronze medal winner in the halfpipe snowboarding competition at the Vancouver Olympics, was forced to go home over risque photos published on the website TMZ, instead of staying for the Closing Ceremonies as he'd planned. It was initially reported that Lago left on his own, but Yahoo! Sports said he was actually forced to leave by the U.S. Ski and Snowboard Association, which was hoping to avoid intervention by the U.S. Olympic Committee. Lago was celebrating last Thursday night (February 18th) after winning his medal earlier that day when someone took a photo of a woman kneeling below his waist to kiss his medal. Another photo showed Lago sticking the medal in the woman's mouth. Lago had already apologized Friday morning after being told the photos existed and were up on TMZ, but was made to go home anyway

Health Experts Critical of 'The Biggest Loser'

Some experts are criticizing NBC's hit show The Biggest Loser, saying the extreme weight loss shown in the competitive show is counterproductive and could be dangerous, LiveScience.com

reported. Carol Wolin-Riklin of the University of Texas Medical School said, "They're taking people who have been inactive and are not in good shape and boom, automatically subjecting them to this stress. Things are going to happen." In fact, there have been times when contestants on the show have been hospitalized. Unlike the big pounds the contestants drop quickly, experts say a safe rate of loss is one to two pounds per week. Dr. Robert Kushner of the Northwestern University Comprehensive Center on Obesity said, "I think a lot of people can feel quite defeated that they're losing weight in what we would call a recommended amount, but they would have been voted off the show immediately. So the message, to me, is just all wrong." Besides all the other concerns, experts say that weight lost through extreme methods is less likely to be kept off. The show's producers say that contestants are under medical supervision, and that the extreme nature of the competition is inspirational for viewers.

Company Sets Up Hotline for Employees to Report Co-workers for Fraud

Magazine mega-publisher Conde Nast has set up a hotline through which employees can report their co-workers for fraud, the New York Post reported earlier this month. According to a memo sent to staffers, the hotline will try to stop, quote, "release of proprietary information, accounting/audit irregularities, falsification of company records, theft of goods/services/cash," and even "unauthorized discounts/payoffs." According to the Post, the new hotline comes after a hacker broke into Conde Nast's system last fall and got early copies of GQ, Vogue and other magazines, which were then posted online. Condé Nast went to court to try to find and prosecute the hacker.

GOING ON THIS WEEKEND!

Good Finally Friday Flaggers! Racing Action at Mohave Valley Race Way in Mohave Valley Sat Night, gates open at 6pm. Fun for the whole family! AND, if you are looking for a GREAT DEAL on a car or truck drop by the Safeway parking lot in Fort Mohave. Findlay Motor Company on the parkway and Findlay Nolte Honda of Kingman have joined forces for a HUGE TENT SALE all weekend long!!!

KEITH URBAN, NICOLE KIDMAN HELPING FUND SCHOOL IN HAITI

Keith Urban and Nicole Kidman have pledged long-term support to help rebuild Haiti after the devastating earthquake it suffered last month. Keith recently told a radio station, "We're actually going to be funding a school down there for the next five years. It's in Port-Au-Prince. The kids will also have one hot meal a day. They'll have all of their medical taken care of by the school, and clothing, as well."

The couple have pledged $50,000 a year for the next five years in support of the school.

• In addition to participating on the Help For Haiti Now telethon last month, Keith and Nicole attended a $5,000-per-person brunch to raise funds for the cause.

Jason Aldean has pushed the boundaries of country music with his rock-infused music. He took a risk in recording and releasing the likes of "She's Country," which was the first of three consecutive Number One hits on his aptly-named Wide Open CD, but Jason tells us the success has definitely provided validation. "You know, I think more than anything it just personally gave me confidence that I can go out and try new things and push the envelope a little bit and it not be just looked down on. I like the fact that I almost feel like people expect that a little bit now from us, is to kind of push the envelope a little bit, and I like bein' in that situation."

Jason says he takes even more chances on his next album, which he is currently in the middle of working on. "We've got some different stuff comin' on the next record, even weirder than this album. We've only cut six songs for it, but we cut some really cool things that I love, and if the first six songs are any indication, I'm very happy with the way the new album's goin' and I think it's gonna be great!"

• Jason just confirmed that he will be performing at this year's CMA Music Festival. The four-day event will run from June 10-13 in downtown Nashville.
• His new single, "Crazy Town," will be heading to radio early next month.

This year's CMA Music Festival is shaping up to be more star-studded than ever before. Reba McEntire, Keith Urban, Rascal Flatts, Lady Antebellum, Martina McBride, Jason Aldean, Brad Paisley, Darius Rucker, and the Zac Brown Band have just announced plans to perform at the upcoming event, which takes place from June 10-13 in downtown Nashville.

Carrie Underwood has already confirmed that she, too, will be participating in CMA Music Festival, which draws more than 374,000 people annually.

Despite his busy tour schedule at that time of year, Brad Paisley tells us he makes sure to set aside time for this event. "You know, I love playin' that festival. These are people that are very serious about music. These people, they know every word, they want to hear certain songs, they want to meet you, they want access, and they get it at this. And it's really a great thing to be a part of."

• Tickets to CMA Music Festival 2010 are currently available. For more information or to purchase tickets, call 1-800-CMA-FEST (262-3378) or log onto CMAfest.com or ticketmaster.com.

FAST FACTS

• The artists at CMA Music Festival participate for free. In return, the CMA donates half the net proceeds of the Festival to support music education in Metro Nashville Public Schools through the Keep the Music Playing program.
• To date, $3,312,053 has been donated to purchase musical instruments and supplies.

The Eagles, Garth Brooks, George Strait, Taylor Swift and Shania Twain are among the artists who have earned the most gold and platinum album certifications over the last decade, according to the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA). The Eagles lead the list with 48 overall awards, followed by "King George," who has the most by a male solo artist with 29 album certifications.

Taylor has the most digital song certifications of all females with 25. Her hit "Love Story" ties with Lady Gaga's "Just Dance" for being the highest-certified digital song with four million downloads.

Shania's Up! is the highest-certified album by a female with 11 million, while Garth has the distinction of being the best-selling solo artist in history with 128 million albums sold.

LeAnn Rimes' 1999 self-titled CD is named as the decade's first platinum album.

Kellie Pickler has purchased a new $1.4 million house in Nashville. According to Radar.com, the 4,800-square foot home includes four bedrooms, four and a half baths, a swimming pool and a two-story fireplace.

Extra touches include an elevator, a kitchen with Viking appliances and granite counter tops, a granite-tiled master bathroom and a large backyard.

• Kellie will be performing on the Grand Ole Opry on Saturday (February 20th) night.
• Her latest single, "Didn't You Know How Much I Loved You," is a Top 15 hit on the country charts.

FAST FACTS

• Kellie co-wrote her last single, "Best Days Of Your Life," with Taylor Swift. The song was a Top 10 hit.
• Her latest self-titled album was released in 2008.

Garth Brooks, Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) and Representative Darrell Issa (R-CA) will all be honored at the Grammys On The Hill awards for their work to improve the environment for music creators. The ceremony will take place on April 14th at the U.S. Capitol.

Sarah Buxton and CMT have partnered to offer fans the first online "augmented reality" experience. Fans can watch Sarah's "Outside My Window" video in 3-D beginning on Tuesday (February 23rd), the day that her new self-titled album comes out. All you have to do is print a symbol on CMT.com, log on to sarahbuxton.com/ar and holding the printout in front of your computer's webcam. For those without a webcam, CMT.com has posted the 3-D video.

Fans can now keep up with the latest news from Jason Aldean with a free iPhone application. The application, which is available through the iTunes App Store, serves as a one-stop shop for all things Jason, from Twitter and Facebook updates to concert tickets and fan club access.

Jason Michael Carroll has parted ways with Arista Nashville. Yesterday (Thursday, February 18th), "Unfortunately, Arista and I have decided to go our separate ways ... I'm glad to have had the opportunity to be there for the last four years. There are plans to go back into the studio and record new music the second week of March. Nothing is over; just planning the next move."

COUNTRY TRIVIA

Q. During what year did Willie Nelson record his classic hit "Blue Eyes Crying In The Rain?"
A. 1975

COUNTRY ON THE TUBE TODAY

JIMMY WAYNE: COMING HOME/GAC 1:00PM (ET)

CMT CRIBS/CMT 1:30PM (ET)
Jo Dee Messina, Darryl Worley, Naomi Judd

TOP 20 COUNTRY COUNTDOWN/GAC 8:00PM (ET)
Martina McBride, Sarah Buxton

CELEBRATING BIRTHDAYS

• Prince Andrew (Queen Elizabeth II's second son, Sarah "Fergie" Ferguson's ex-husband) (50)
• Justine Bateman (actress, Mallory Keaton of TV's Family Ties) (44)
• Jeff Daniels (actor, Dumb and Dumber, Radio Days, Something Wild, The Purple Rose Of Cairo, Terms Of Endearment) (55)
• Benicio Del Toro (actor, License To Kill, The Usual Suspects, Best Supporting Actor Oscar winner for his role in Traffic) (43)
• Haylie Duff (actress-songwriter, sister of Hillary Duff) (25)
• Smokey Robinson (R&B singer and songwriter) (70)
• Lou Christie ("Lightnin' Strikes," "Rhapsody in the Rain," "The Gypsy Cried") (67)
• Amy Tan (writer, producer, The Joy Luck Club) (58)
• Michael Nader (actor, Dynasty, All My Children, As The World Turns) (65)
• Seal (singer, "Kiss From A Rose") (47)
• Tony Iommi (guitarist, Black Sabbath) (62)
• Bluey Maunick (jazz musician, Incognito) (53)
• Steve Nieve (keyboardist, Elvis Costello & the Attractions, Elvis Costello & the Imposters) (52)
• Ray Winstone (actor, The Departed, The Proposition, Fool's Gold, Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull) (53)

ON THIS DAY IN COUNTRY!

• Carrie Underwood performed at halftime of the NBA All-Star Game at the Toyota Center in Houston in 2006.
• Garth Brooks signed a contract to join the New York Mets during spring training at Port St. Lucie, Florida in 2000. The Mets agreed to contribute to his Touch 'Em All Foundation for kids.
• Louis Marshall "Grandpa" Jones, a member of the Country Music Hall Of Fame and long-time Grand Ole Opry star, died in 1998.
• George Strait played to 125,000 people at two shows at the Houston Astrodome in 1996, breaking his own previous attendance records and setting the all-time Astrodome attendance record.
• Reba McEntire's "It's Your Call" was certified gold and platinum on the same day in 1993.
• Willie Nelson's movie Red Headed Stranger premiered in Austin in 1987.
• Dolly Parton's "9 To 5" was certified gold in 1981.
• Elvis Presley hit Number One on the Billboard country chart with "Moody Blue" in 1977.
• Emmylou Harris won her first Grammy for her album, Elite Hotel, in 1977.
• Porter Wagoner & Dolly Parton announced the breakup of their act in 1974.
• Elvis Presley recorded Eddie Rabbitt's "Kentucky Rain" at Memphis' American Studios, with Ronnie Milsap on backing vocals, in 1969.
• Tex Ritter recorded "High Noon" in 1953.
• Eddy Arnold's Number One single, "Don't Rob Another Man's Castle," charted in 1949.
• Roy Acuff made his first appearance as a Grand Ole Opry member in 1938.

CELEBRITY GOSSIP

LINDSAY LOHAN IN COMPLIANCE WITH PROBATION: A judge said on Thursday that Lindsay Lohan is in full compliance with the terms of her probation for a drunken driving and drug case. Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Marsha Revel reviewed Lohan's case and said "everything looks good" with the starlet's progress in a court-ordered drug and alcohol education program. Lohan was not in court for the hearing, but Revel said that she must complete the program by July. Lindsay pleaded guilty in August 2007 to two misdemeanor counts of being under the influence of cocaine and no contest to drunken driving and reckless driving charges.

BRANGELINA AND KIDS PLAY AROUND ITALY: Brad Pitt, Angelina Jolie and their kids are becoming fixtures in Venice, Italy where Jolie is preparing to film The Tourist. Pitt and Jolie brought daughters Zahara and Shiloh on a water boat ride, which was snapped by paparazzi, and they were also spotted with their brood at a local gelato spot. The owner, Simone Sambo told People magazine, "This is the third time Mrs. Jolie has come to our store. The first time she was on her own with Maddox. It was during the Venice Film festival three or four years ago. The following year, again during the festival period, Jolie returned but this time with Mr. Pitt. Finally, she has brought her children too."

'BACHELOR' FINALIST HAS SHADY EX-BOYFRIEND: Amid spoilers that Vienna Girardi gets the final rose from Bachelor Jake Pavelka, sources discovered that the frontrunner's ex-boyfriend was arrested last October after showing up uninvited at her parents' house looking for her. E! reports that Veinna's parents called 911 after Brian Lee Smith "made aggressive attempts to get to the front door" and refused to leave when asked. He was charged with misdemeanors for trespassing and resisting an officer, but the case will be dismissed if he successfully completes a six-month diversion program.

J-WOWW STEALS KARDASHIAN SPOTLIGHT: Jersey Shore's Jenni "JWoWW" Farley reportedly stole the spotlight at Kim Kardashian's New York fashion show earlier this week. The New York Post reports that fans inundated the reality star -- who was sitting front row -- asking her if they could touch her breasts and if she'd fist pump with them. Farley supposedly responded, "Not in this dress!"

KATHRYN GRAYSON DIES: Kathryn Grayson, who starred in musicals of the 1940s and 1950s like Kiss Me Kate and Show Boat, died on Wednesday (February 17th) at the age of 88. Her longtime secretary and companion, Sally Sherman, told The Associated Press, "She just went to sleep and didn't wake up."

TIGER WOODS' PRESS STATEMENT STIRS CONTROVERSY BEFORE IT'S MADE

With Tiger Woods set to speak out this morning (Friday, February 19th, at 11 a.m. ET) for the first time since his infidelity scandal broke three months ago, a firestorm of speculation has ignited about just exactly what he will say, whether it will be sincere, and whether the golf champion's public statement comes too late to save his image. Also debated is whether wife Elin Nordegren will stand by her man and be present for the statement.

Most people feel that Woods waited too long to face the public after revelations that he cheated on his wife with as many as 16 different women. Others say the format of Woods' presentation -- a brief statement with no questions from the press during the ongoing WGC-Accenture Match Play Championship -- means he won't say anything meaningful and feels he's above questioning.

Woods will appear Friday in the clubhouse at the TPC Sawgrass in Ponte Vedra Beach, Fla., home of the PGA Tour. The statement will be carried live on ABC, CBS and NBC, as well as The Golf Channel.

PUBLIC REACTIONS

James Vaughan at the ABC News' Nightline website: "Knowing how thick-headed and arrogant he is, I don't think Tiger will or can say anything at Friday's press conference that will change my opinion of him."

TV personality Star Jones via Twitter: "Remember. His behavior was deplorable . . . but he didn't kill anyone, sell drugs, possess weapons or beat up a woman . . . PERSPECTIVE."

Former U.S. Open and British Open champion Ernie Els to Golfweek magazine timing the statement during the Accenture tournament: "It's selfish. You can write that. I feel sorry for the sponsor. Mondays are a good day to make statements, not Friday. This takes a lot away from the golf tournament."

RADIO STATION LEAKS WHAT IT SAYS IS TIGER STATEMENT: TMZ reports that a local radio station got hold of a copy of Tiger's statement, and it seems to indicate that he and Elin will divorce. The so-called statement says, in part, "Directly to the point there is no one to blame but me for the mess I have put my wife and family through. I accept total and complete responsibility. My wife and I have been trying to work things out but sadly things have not worked out . . . We have decided to live apart with me having mutually agreed upon times when I can be with our children." Reps for the golfer say the statement is bogus.

PAPARAZZI LOSE MONEY ON TIGER PHOTOS: Several major photo agencies were angling to get the first post-scandal picture of Tiger, which could have netted more than $1,000,000 in worldwide distribution profits. But according to TMZ, that cool million was lost when Getty Images, a non-paparazzi subscription service, sent out a free image of the golfer jogging in Florida on Wednesday, and another of Tiger on the links near his home in Isleworth on Thursday. Last month, Getty had announced a "multi-year" deal with the PGA, leading many to believe the shots were staged as part of the deal.

SPORTS WRITER'S BOOK ABOUT TIGER ARRIVING IN JUNE: Atria Books announced Thursday that it will publish journalist Robert Lusetich's book Unplayable: An Inside Account of Tiger's Most Tumultuous Season this June. The tome will tell "how golf's greatest and most famous player built a public persona at odds with his private life." Lusetich is a senior columnist for FoxSports.com who reported on Woods throughout 2009.

HOLLYWOOD NEWS

TINA FEY TO BRING BACK PALIN IMPRESSION? Tina Fey will host Saturday Night Live in April -- and will likely reprise her famed Sarah Palin impression. The 30 Rock star told the Associated Press that "it's inevitable that we'll try it, at least," but noted, "we'll see if it makes it to air." Fey previously said that the hype surrounding her impression in 2008 was "the strangest thing that's ever happened to me."

ALEXANDER MCQUEEN LINE WILL LIVE ON: Alexander McQueen's fashion line will live on. Despite the 40-year-old's shocking death last week, Francois Henri Pinault -- the chief executive of the parent company of Gucci Group and Salma Hayek's husband -- said that McQueen's trademark will live on. Gucci Group president Robert Polet added, "We truly believe in the future of the brand." A rep for McQueen said "it was Lee's wish that the brand go on," adding, "It's great news. We're really happy considering the circumstances."

CHRISTOPH WALTZ TO STAR WITH REESE? Oscar nominee Christoph Waltz is reportedly in talks to star opposite Reese Witherspoon and Rob Pattinson in the movie adaptation of Water for Elephants. Deadline.com reports that he'd be taking over for Sean Penn as a "dangerous paranoid schizophrenic animal trainer."

J.K. ROWLING SLAMS PLAGIARISM SUIT: J.K. Rowling is calling a plagiarism suit against her "unfounded" and "absurd." In June, the estate of Adrian Jacobs issued proceedings against Rowling's publisher, Bloomsbury Publishing Plc, claiming that Rowling copied substantial parts of Jacobs' 1987 book, The Adventures of Willy the Wizard -- No 1 Livid Land."\ They recently added the Harry Potter author to their suit. Rowling responded in a statement, "I am saddened that yet another claim has been made that I have taken material from another source to write Harry. The fact is I had never heard of the author or the book before the first accusation by those connected to the author's estate in 2004; I have certainly never read the book. We will be applying to the court immediately for a ruling that the claim is without merit and should therefore be dismissed without delay."

SIMON COWELL CONSIDERING PEREZ HILTON AS REPLACEMENT; COMMENTS ON CONTESTANT'S DISMISSAL

Simon Cowell is remaining tight-lipped if he knows the real contenders for his spot on American Idol, but the judge pretty much squashed talk that Howard Stern is in the running -- and gave hope to celebrity blogger Perez Hilton. He commented on the replacement rumors, telling reporters, "I know Howards name has been in there for a while but I'm fairly certain that there hasn't been an approach at any time for Howard to do the show. Perez? You know Perez would be funny. You know he has a good taste in music, he's a personality, that could work."

Speaking a bit more seriously, Simon was adamant that his replacement be experienced in the industry. He said, "This person specifically has got to have a lot of experience in the music business. it is the most important thing and that's what I think will happen. I think they'll find somebody who's got that kind of experience, whether it's a manager, artist or like me an A and R executive, it will be someone like that I'm sure."

• There's been a fair share of rumors that Simon has been clashing with new judge Ellen DeGeneres on set -- and he didn't exactly say much to deny it. When asked about the supposed tension, Cowell said, ["Well I wouldn't say that we didn't get on well. I don't know Ellen that well. It was a difficult position for her because she started work on the Hollywood week which is quite a difficult show to do."] SOUNDCUE (:11 OC . . . show to do)

CHRIS GOLIGHTLY KICKED OFF SHOW

Meanwhile Idol fans are abuzz over the revelation that contestant Chris Golightly was kicked out of the top 24 earlier this week. A source close to Idol told the Associated Press that the reason behind the dismissal was " a "lack of veracity" during the audition process" -- supposedly referring to the fact that the 25-year-old didn't disclose that he'd had a music contract.

USA Today reported that when reached by phone on Thursday morning, Chris said, "This is not fair; I don't know what to do. I said, no, I was not in a contract. If he's trying to say that's what it was about, they're covering their a**." Now, he says, "I've left them voicemails, but they've screened my calls. They don't even answer me. Nobody."

• Simon commented on the dismissal, saying, "I really honestly don't have a clue why he's been removed from the competition, I'm guessing its some kind of technical reason. but it's a shame for him, he needed this opportunity."

DESPITE RUMORS, SIMON COWELL ISN'T ENGAGED

Despite rumors, Simon Cowell is not engaged to 36-year-old makeup artist Mezhgan Hussainy. Cowell's publicist responded to widely circulated gossip, telling Usmsgazine.com, "I spoke to Simon in London yesterday afternoon, just before he took his flight back to LA. I asked him: 'Look, are you engaged? Is it true?,' and he said, 'No! No. I'm not engaged.'"

Hussainy, who first stepped out with Cowell last October, sparked engagement speculation after wearing a diamond ring while dining with the American Idol judge in London last weekend.

A supposed friend had told London's The Sun, "Simon's definitely engaged. I've never seen him so happy. He's known Mezhgan several years and they've grown close. He finally popped the question."

• Cowell's rep again clarified, "Yes, they are they an item. Yes, they're happy. But they're not engaged. That's straight from Simon's mouth."
• Cowell himself said in a British TV interview earlier this week, "I think she's the one. I'm smitten. You know when you've found somebody very special."
• Hussainy joined American Idol during its second season as the make-up artist to Cowell, Paula Abdul and Randy Jackson.

OLYMPICS BEAT 'AMERICAN IDOL' IN RATINGS

American Idol was finally ousted from its perch atop the television ratings on Wednesday (February 17th) night. The Nielsen Company said that during the hour Idol and the Olympics competed against one another -- the Olympics were seen by 30.1 million people while only 18.4 million watched Idol.

It marked the first time in six years that anything has beaten American Idol head to head in the ratings. Idol had beaten the Olympics on Tuesday night by a margin of four million viewers.

• Wednesday's Olympics featured gold medal victories by Americans Lindsey Vonn, Shaun White and Shani Davis.

JAMES CAMERON WANTS EX-WIFE TO WIN OSCAR BECAUSE 'I DON'T REALLY NEED ANOTHER ONE'

James Cameron appears to be preparing himself for defeat at the Academy Awards. The Avatar creator told Charlie Rose that he hopes ex-wife Kathryn Bigelow wins best director for The Hurt Locker because after having won already for Titanic, "I don't really need another one."

However, he would selflessly welcome a best picture award for the sake of "his team."

• He explained, "I respect the whole institution of the Academy Awards because it's so -- it's the pinnacle of achievement in my chosen profession. But I don't really need another one. But to be honored -- you know, to have the team honored and for their accomplishment, that would mean so much to them."
• He said that Bigelow beating him in the director category would be "my fantasy outcome."

NICOLAS CAGE EMBARRASSED BY FINANCIAL CRISIS

Nicolas Cage is opening up about his massive financial crisis that made headlines across the world. ShowbizSpy.com quotes the actor as having said he wanted to "crawl up and hide" after learning that he was millions of dollars in debt.

The actor said that his former manager Samuel Levin advised him to buy properties around the world -- the decision that Cage blames for "ruining me financially."

• Cage said that he's beginning to pay back the money he owes -- including $6 million in back taxes from 2007 alone -- explaining, "I have a new manager now, so I'm halfway there. And I will pay off all those debts, to the last cent."
• He added, "I have a responsibility for my sons and my wife. I have to get back on my feet." Cage and his wife Alice Kim have a four year-old son named Kal-El and he also has a 19-year-old son from a previous relationship.
• At one time Cage owned a jet, two yachts, three castles, two islands in the Bahamas and a number of mansions. It was also revealed during his ordeal that he once spent $276,000 on a 67-million-year-old dinosaur skull.

SUSAN BOYLE FINE AFTER FAINTING IN AIRPORT

Susan Boyle's mental and physical condition is back in spotlight after the 48-year-old singer collapsed at a London airport earlier this week. The Daily Mail reports that Boyle was preparing to board a flight from London to Nice, France when she fainted in the airline's Club Lounge.

Boyle received medical attention and was given the okay to fly. She later performed at the San Remo Festival as planned.

• Her rep confirmed, "Susan did faint at Heathrow as she overheated in the lounge because it was so warm. However, she is fine now and gave a fantastic performance at the festival."
• Despite the rep's account, one witness told the Daily Mail, "It was very dramatic. Susan's legs just gave way under her and she went down."
• Boyle was forced to dismiss reports about her mental health in November after she was photographed crying and sucking her thumb after a performance. She was admitted to a clinic last May citing exhaustion, just days after she was named runner-up on Britain's Got Talent.