James Gandolfini Gets Married

James Gandolfini and Deborah Lin were married in Honolulu on Saturday, magazine reports.
The 46-year-old star of "The Sopranos" and the 40-year-old model were married at the Central Union Church in the bride's hometown, a wedding guest told the magazine.
Lin walked down the aisle in an Italian lace gown. Gandfolfini's son Michael from an earlier marriage was his best man.
The couple have been engaged since 2007.

Nicky and Paris Hilton and More Celebs Party at Pure

It was a star-studded weekend at Pure nightclub in Las Vegas when Paris and Nicky Hilton, Eva Longoria Parker and Wilmer Valderrama dropped by to kick off the Labor Day holiday weekend on the mega club's VIP stage.
The Hilton sisters were first on the scene -- joined by Nicky's boyfriend David Katzenberg -- to party to the hot tunes spun by Pure's resident DJ, DJ AM. In between dances, Paris and Nicky took a break to pose for photos with fans.
Then Eva and Wilmer dropped in with a gang of friends and joined the party on the VIP stage, where Grey Goose cocktails and shots of Patron Platinum were the drink of choice -- except for Eva who opted for Fiji Water.
The Hollywood celebs were also joined by an A-list of sports figures including Larry Johnson, all pro running back of the Kansas City Chiefs, who was sipping Armand de Brignac Ace of Spades Champagne while he chatted up Lamar Odom of the Los Angeles Lakers, Rudy Gay of the Memphis Grizzlies, the Milwaukee Bucks dynamic duo of Damon Jones and Tyronn Lue and Stephan Bonner of UFC fame.

Ashlee Simpson Fights Bogus Web Reports

New mom Ashlee Simpson-Wentz doesn't take fictitious rumors about her on the Internet lightly. Today, she posted a blog on her MySpace page responding to bogus reports that she cried because her doctor told her she was fat!
Here is her response:
Today I read on a blog that I went to the doctor and he said I was overweight and I cried and went to Planet Blue (because I was blue) and bought 6 pair of size 0 jeans. Now it is ridiculous to read such nonsense about oneself so I thought I would address this one...
1. My doctor says I am right on target with my weight gain.2. Have not been to Planet Blue in at least two years.3. Love my maternity jeans ... they have stretchy tops it is awesome! 4. My closet full of size 0's are being worn by Pete right now and he looks hot in them :)
So now that I have cleared that up let me tell you ... carrying a child is the most inspiring, emotional, amazing experience of my life. My weight and my pant size are the absolute last thing I am concerned about. I am only concerned with having a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby. People who talk and judge pregnant women's weight need to get a life!!!
Peace and Love, Ashlee

Hurricane Gustav Could Affect The Start of the RNC

The threat of Hurricane Gustav is causing the broadcast community to rethink the planned coverage of the Republican National Convention, slated to take place September 1-4 in Minneapolis-St. Paul, it is reported by Broadcasting & Cable.
Joanna Burgos, a spokesperson for the RNC, tells the trade magazine that the convention's organizers are watching the path of the hurricane and could delay the start of the convention depending on the impact of the storm on the U.S.
This would not be the first time that events caused John McCain to alter his plans. Burgos says that the Republican presidential hopeful had postponed his 2000 announcement to run for President due to the crisis in the Balkans.
ET will be front and center at the RNC, so keep checking back for more convention coverage.

Amy Winehouse Cancels Concert Date

Troubled singer Amy Winehouse canceled a Paris concert date on Friday due to poor health, it is reported by Reuters.
"Amy Winehouse was regrettably unable to perform at the Rock En Seine show in Paris due to illness. She was taken ill at her house and wasn't able to travel to France for the concert," her spokesman told the news organization.
The soul singer has had several reported health issues this year, having been hospitalized, and, then in June, her father said his daughter was suffering from early signs of emphysema.
Health permitting, next up for Winehouse is an appearance at the Bestival Fesival on the Isle of Wight next weekend.

Charlize Theron's Indecent Proposal

Charlize Theronlooked stunning in a shimmering silver gown at the Friday premiere of her new drama 'The Burning Plain,' held at the 65th Annual Venice Film Festival. Usmagazine.com reports that during the press conference for the film, the Oscar winner was caught a bit off-guard when a reporter told her that he wanted to marry her "First of all, I really like you so much and have a lot of respect for you but I would like to marry you," said the reporter, adding, "I have a question: which side [of the bed] do you prefer to sleep [on]?" "The side that you are not on," responded Charlize, whose long-time boyfriend is actor Stuart Townsend. She then jokingly yelled, "Security! Security! Security!" and offered, "The man with the red -- you are very cute, but you know my boyfriend will kill you." Directed by the writer of 'Babel' and '21 Grams,' 'The Burning Plain' stars Charlize opposite Kim Basinger in a story about a woman recalling her challenging upbringing.

John Edwards to Speak Without Elizabeth

John Edwards is planning to speak publicly for the first time since his bombshell admission to having an affair on ABC's "Nightline" on August 8, according to the Associated Press.

Edwards will speak solo at Hofstra University on September 8. The former Senator's wife, Elizabeth, had been scheduled to appear alongside him, but has canceled.

Edwards admitted to having an affair with a campaign worker, Rielle Hunter, but has denied fathering her infant daughter.

Jennifer Aniston To Guest Star on '30 Rock'

ET confirms through sources that Jennifer Aniston will make a guest appearance on NBC's Emmy Award-winning comedy "30 Rock."

Aniston's last primetime acting turn was on Courteney Cox's FX series "Dirt."

No word on just what character she'll be playing on the Peacock Network's hit series topped by Tina Fey and Alec Baldwin.

The third season of "30 Rock" premieres on Thursday, Oct. 30 at 9:30 p.m.

Check back for more details on this developing story...

McCain Chooses Alaska Governor Sarah Palin for VP

John McCain has chosen Alaska Governor Sarah Palin to be his running mate.

Palin, 44, has been serving as Alaska Governor for just under two years, having previously served as city councilperson and Mayor of Wasilla, Alaska. The mother of five gave birth to her last child only months ago.

Michael Jackson On Raising His Kids and Turning 50

King of Pop Michael Jackson turns 50 today -- but has no plans of slowing down, he told ABC's "Good Morning America" in a phone interview.

"I am still looking forward to doing a lot of great things," Jackson said.

The pop icon, who has recently stayed out of the spotlight, says he now focuses his life on his children.

"I get pretty emotional when I see them having a wonderful time," he added, "when they are on a ride and they are screaming and they are happy."

To sum up his life today, Jackson said:

"I am writing all the time. I love composing and the whole thing. But I am also raising my children and enjoying it and teaching them how to ride bicycles and how to read. I love it."

Jackson revealed plans to release new music and go on tour in the future, although no dates are set.

The 50-year-old worldwide superstar tells GMA that contemporary R&B singer Chris Brown reminds him most of himself, but he also says he can still do his famous dance moves and "more."

You can check out more on Jackson's GMA interview Aug. 29 at 7:00 a.m

John Lennon Biopic

A new biopic exploring John Lennon's early years, which shaped him into the man and icon he'd become, is in the works, says the Hollywood Reporter.

The film's script zeroes in on the rock legend's childhood and adolescence, when he fatefully met his songwriting soulmate and Beatles comrade Paul McCartney.

Filming will take place on location in Lennon's hometown of Liverpool, England, says the Reporter, and the project's backers say that casting "is under way."

'Shear Genius'' $100,000 Winner

Dee Adames beat out Charlie Price and Nicole Obert to win the $100,000 grand prize on Wednesday night's season two finale when host and former "Charlie's Angel" Jaclyn Smith declared her work to be "Shear Genius"!

"I am just elated," Dee tells ET the morning after her win. "I am on cloud nine and I don't know now if I am ever going to come down."

The 37-year-old, who only became a stylist 10 years ago, has decided to spend her cash prize by investing in herself. She has already found a location in South Miami and is going to start construction on her own salon -- Dee & L Hair Studio -- as soon as she finishes up all the publicity demands on her time as a result of her win.

For the finals, the contestants were given four models with the same hair color at four different stages in their lives -- 20s, 30s, 45 and 60 -- and had to design a theme that would encompass different hairstyles for all four. Dee chose a rocker theme.

"I have a good friend of mine who is a musician and I have a lot of clients who are musicians and I see them going through changes," she says when asked how she came up with the idea. "It is the closest thing to a rock star for me, so I correlated my story from that."

Where the final challenge was thrilling because it was so complicated, and she won, Dee says her favorite task was the family challenge. "Just seeing my mom walk through those doors, it felt like home," she says. "Just having her by my side, I felt I would do well."

Despite the acrimony between Charlie and herself, Dee says she recognized that he was her major competition, but she felt that he also had an unfair advantage.

"If you look at the show, it was Charlie doing that same bird's nest over and over and he didn't get called out for it," says Dee, who was accused of doing the same haircut over and over. "So I was wondering if there was a little favoritism on [judge] Kim Vo's side for Charlie. Kim didn't give me much recognition."

Even so, Dee emerged victorious. The result has been a lot less sleep, but it is worth it. "It is definitely surreal, but I am enjoying the moment," she shares.

Barack Obama Hits It Out of the Park at DNC

Barack Obama rocked the house with his official acceptance speech at Denver's packed Mile High Stadium on the final day of the Democratic National Convention -- a day that also marked the 45th anniversary of Dr. Martin Luther King's historic "I Have A Dream" speech. Amid thunderous cheers and applause, the first-ever African-American presidential nominee for a major party stood across from his wife and two young daughters to bask in the glow of a campaign for change. "To the love of my life -- our next first lady -- Michelle Obama, and to Malia -- I love you so much, and I'm so proud of all of you," he beamed, opening his "The American Promise" speech with the statement, "To all my fellow citizens of this great nation -- with profound gratitude, I accept your nomination for the presidency of the United States."Obama expressed his thanks to "the historic slate of candidates who accompanied me on this journey," singling out Hillary Clinton, President Bill Clinton, Ted Kennedy and "the next Vice President of the United States, Joe Biden." He also referenced his historic speech at the DNC four years ago, in which he declared his humble beginnings and two parents from Kenya and Kansas who shared "a belief that in America, their son could achieve whatever he put his mind to." "We are here because we love this country too much to let the next four years look just like the last eight," he said. "On November fourth, we must stand up and say: 'Eight is enough.' "Now let there be no doubt: The Republican nominee, John McCain, has worn the uniform of our country with bravery and distinction, and for that we owe him our gratitude and respect," he added. "But the record's clear: John McCain has voted with George Bush 90 percent of the time. Senator McCain likes to talk about judgment, but really, what does it say about your judgment when you think George Bush was right more than 90 percent of the time? I don't know about you, but I'm not ready to take a ten percent chance on change." In response to McCain's positioning Barack as a "celebrity" without enough experience, he referenced his grandmother's struggles along with everyday workers, saying, "I don't know what kind of lives John McCain thinks that celebrities lead, but this has been mine. These are my heroes. Theirs are the stories that shaped me. And it is on their behalf that I intend to win this election and keep our promise alive as President of the United States." Earlier in the day, a variety of big-name stars performed for the DNC convention-goers at Mile High Stadium.John Legendwill.i.am of the Black Eyed Peas Sheryl Crow, Michael McDonald and >Stevie Wonder wowed the crowd with inspirational tunes for change, while former Vice President (and 2000 presidential contender)Al Gore and Joe Biden also delivered memorable speeches In response to the historic acceptance speech, Hillary Clinton said in a statement, "Barack Obama's speech tonight laid out his specific, bold solutions and optimistic vision for our nation and our children's future. His speech crystallized the clear choice between he and Senator McCain. Four more years of the same failed policies or a leader who can tackle the great challenges we face: revitalizing our economy and restoring our standing in the world. I am proud to support Senator Obama, our next President of the United States and Joe Biden, our next Vice President of the United States." Watch ET for all the on-the-floor highlights from the climactic final day of the DNC!

David Duchovny in Rehab For Sex Addiction

ET confirms that David Duchovny has entered a rehabilitation center for sex addiction.
"I have voluntarily entered a facility for the treatment of sex addiction," the "Californication" actor said in a statement to ET delivered by his lawyer, style="font-weight: normal;">Stanton "Larry" Stein. "I ask for respect and privacy for my wife and children as we deal with this situation as a family." The 48-year-old "X-Files" star has been married to actress Téa Leoni since 1997 and the couple has two children together. There is no statement from Leoni, per her publicist. Show time, which airs "Californication," tells ET, "All of us at Show time wish David and his family the best during this very private time."

Jennifer Hudson Belts Out 'Banner' for Barack

Jennifer Hudson belted out an amazing rendition of the national anthem Thursday afternoon at Mile High Stadium in Denver to kick off the final day of the Democratic National Convention.
Earlier this week, the 'Dreamgirls' Oscar winner and former "American Idol" contender broke the news to ET that she felt honored to sing "The Star-Spangled Banner" on the night Barack Obama accepts the nomination for president at the Democratic National Convention. Jennifer, who calls Barack a "great role model," said that she had never yet sang for such a large crowd."This is definitely one of the biggest honors for me," she told ET. "It's something that I've really wanted to do. Jennifer will release her self-titled debut album on Sept. 30.

Michael Phelps' 'Entourage' Run-In

Eight-medal Beijing Olympic swimming champ -- and big "Entourage" fan -- Michael Phelps recently stumbled upon the set of HBO's hit series while it was filming in Midtown Manhattan. Seizing a great opportunity, series producer Doug Ellin immediately wrote the star athlete into the show with a cameo opposite the show's Kevin Connolly. Phelps is a wanted man these days: He's been swarmed with commercial and showbiz offers, and will be hosting the season premiere of "Saturday Night Live" on September 13. The fifth season of "Entourage" kicks off Sunday, September 7 on HBO, with Phelps' appearance coming in a future episode

Mackenzie Phillips Bailed Out of Jail

ET has confirmed that actress Mackenzie Phillips was released from jail at approximately 1 p.m. today on $10,000 bail. See the former "One Day at a Time" star's booking sheet. Phillips was arrested at LAX Airport on Wednesday and booked into a jail in Van Nuys on a felony drug possession charge, according to an airport police spokesman. Airport police confirmed that Phillips, 48, was busted after security screener allegedly discovered drugs in her possession.

Katie Holmes Returns to TV

Katie Holmes will play a nonprofit attorney when the 'Batman Begins' star returns to TV in the "Grace" episode of ABC's "Eli Stone."

So why did the film star return to the tube? "Eli Stone" creator and executive producer Greg Berlanti had worked with Katie on "Dawson's Creek" and invited her.

Earlier, Stephen McPherson, president of ABC Entertainment, revealed: "I was at the table read. She was fabulous. It's a great role for her. There's actually some singing and dancing that she does, and she's exquisite. But first and foremost, Greg came to me with the idea because he really had a creative idea -- a way to do it, and he and Katie wanted to get back together and do something. So we were really fortunate that she agreed to do it."

"Eli Stone" will air Thursdays at 10 p.m. on ABC this fall.

ABC Producer's Mug Shot

ET has just obtained the mug shot for Asa Eslocker, the ABC News producer who was arrested in Denver while trying to shoot a story about senators and big donors for the network.
He is being charged with trespass, interference, and failure to follow a lawful order, according to Denver police officials.

Julianne and Cody Do Double Duty!

"Hannah Montana"'s Cody Linley's partners up with two-time "DWTS" winner and country singer Julianne Hough. Watch out Miley, Cody might not be the only "Hannah Montana" star who can bust a move!

Accident on the 'America's Got Talent' Set!

ET has confirmed that the "America's Got Talent" contestant known as George the Giant was injured over the weekend while rehearsing for the show.

According to a spokesperson for the series it is still possible that he will perform tonight. It remains to be seen, but it hasn't been ruled out.

George was bound by chains and hanging from the rafters at the time of the incident. Medics rushed to his side and he was placed on a gurney and given oxygen.

Michael Phelps to Host Season Opener of 'SNL

ET confirms that Olympic swimming champion Michael Phelps will host the season opener of "Saturday Night Live" on September 13, with musical guest Lil' Wayne.

Mackenzie Phillips Arrested For Alleged Drug Possession

ET confirms that actress Mackenzie Phillips was arrested on suspicion of possession of a controlled substance after being stopped at Los Angeles International Airport.

Airport police confirmed that Phillips, 48, was held in custody at LAX after security screeners allegedly discovered "what appeared to be heroin and cocaine" in her possession.

She was booked into jail in Van Nuys on a felony drug possession charge, with bail set at $10,000, according to an airport police spokesman. Phillips' agent had no comment on the incident.

Phillips, who gained fame on the 1970s sitcom "One Day at a Time," was reportedly later fired from the show for drug abuse. She has publicly spoken about her battle with drugs and her sobriety.

'CSI''s William Petersen and Laurence Fishburne to Co-Present

ET has confirmed that even before they star together on "CSI: Crime Scene Investigation," William Petersen and Laurence Fishburne will make an appearance together when they present at "The 60th Primetime Emmy® Awards" on Sunday, Sept. 21 at 8 p.m.

Other newly announced presenters are America Ferrera, Jennifer Love Hewitt, Hayden Panettiere and Vanessa Williams, who will join the previously named Teri Hatcher, Marcia Cross, Dana Delany, Nicollette Sheridan, Felicity Huffman and Eva Longoria Parker, Hugh Laurie, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Tina Fey and Amy Poehler.

"How I Met Your Mother" stars Neil Patrick Harris and Sarah Chalke have been set as hosts for the 2008 Creative Arts Emmy Awards, on Saturday, September 13.

This year's Emmy Awards will be held at the Nokia Theater in Los Angeles.

Charlie Sheen's Wife Shows Off Baby Bump!

ET has your first look at Brooke Mueller's baby bump -- just one day after we broke the news that she was pregnant!

The hot mama, who is already beaming with that pregnant glow, was all smiles as she made a stop at the doctor's office and bank in Los Angeles on Tuesday.

More Stars to 'Stand Up to Cancer'

New moms Halle Berry and Jessica Alba and country crooner Carrie Underwood are the newest names to be added to the list of stars who will be standing up to cancer in a star-studded TV fundraiser.

The roster of stars who had already been scheduled to appear includes: Jennifer Aniston, Christina Applegate, Lance Armstrong, Josh Brolin, Kirsten Dunst, Elizabeth Edwards, Jon Favreau, America Ferrera, Neil Patrick Harris, Salma Hayek, Scarlett Johansson, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Christina Ricci, Robin Roberts, Meryl Streep, Hilary Swank, Charlize Theron, Goran Visnjic, Forest Whitaker, Charles Barkley, Jack Black, Abigail Breslin, Kate Bosworth, Sheryl Crow, Ellen DeGeneres, Melissa Etheridge, Jimmy Fallon, Jennifer Garner, Brad Garrett, Angie Harmon, Tony Hawk, Marg Helgenberger, Diane Keaton, Rob Lowe, Mandy Moore, Keanu Reeves, Jimmy Smits and David Spade.

The celebs will appair in cancer PSAs during the hour-long special, which is set to air Sept. 5 at 8 p.m. on CBS, ABC and NBC.

All Eyes On Hillary, Even Barack Obama's!

Democratic presidential nominee Barack Obama proudly watches former competitor Sen. Hillary Clinton throw her full support behind him in a powerful speech at the Democratic National Convention in Denver Tuesday night.

The presidential hopeful was all smiles during Clinton's endorsement, in which she emphatically said, "No way. No how. No McCain."

New Pic: First Red Carpet for New Dad Brad Pitt -- with George Clooney!

Brad Pitt walked the red carpet for the first time since becoming the father of twins, alongside fellow 'Ocean's Thirteen' co-star and good pal George Clooney, to draw attention to the plight of victims in Darfur in Venice Tuesday night.

Clooney hosted the "Not On Our Watch" charity event for his organization that has raised millions to help victims of the humanitarian crisis in the Darfur region of Sudan, where countless refugees have been displaced due to fighting between African rebels and government troops.

The two stars are in Venice for the Wednesday premiere of the Coen Brothers' film 'Burn After Reading,' in which they co-starred. The film opens in theaters stateside September 12. Of course, Brad has made headlines all over the world for becoming the new dad to twins with partner Angelina Jolie.

The 'Desperate Housewives' Are White Hot!

Teri Hatcher, Dana Delany, Marcia Cross, Felicity Huffman, Nicollette Sheridan and Eva Longoria Parker glam up as they get ready for all the action on Wisteria Lane!

Hillary Clinton: 'Proud Supporter' of Obama!

Hillary Clinton delivered a ringing presidential endorsement for Barack Obama at the Democratic National Convention in Denver Tuesday night, saying, "I'm here tonight as a proud mother, as a proud Democrat, as a proud senator from New York, a proud American, and a proud supporter of Barack Obama."

After an inspirational video narrated by Chelsea Clinton, Chelsea introduced "my hero, and my mother" to the appreciative DNC crowd, who welcomed the New York senator with thunderous applause. Former President Bill Clinton watched from the wings to show his love and support for his wife.

"Whether you voted for me or you voted for Barack, the time is now to unite as a single party for a single purpose," she said. "We are on the same team and none of us can afford to sit on the sidelines."

Dressed in a tangerine power suit, Hillary also added a shout-out to her staunch female contingent of supporters, whom she affectionately called the "sisterhood of the traveling pantsuits," saying, "Thank you, because you never gave in and you never gave up."

She also praised Michelle Obama's DNC speech, saying, "Anyone who saw Michelle's speech last night will know that she will be a great first lady for America."

Obama's former political foe ran an extremely competitive campaign until the eleventh hour until she conceded the race back in June due to Obama's superior tally of delegates. She has been a staunch ally and supporter of the Democratic presidential candidate ever since.

Nicollette Sheridan & Michael Bolton End Engagement

ET confirms that Nicollette Sheridan and Michael Bolton have ended their engagement.

"Nicollette Sheridan and Michael Bolton have amicably ended their engagement," a rep for the couple tells People magazine. "They appreciate your respect for their privacy in this matter."

The couple originally began seeing each other in the 1992 and that lasted for five years. They then resumed their relationship in 2005 and announced in March 2006 they were engaged.

Gayle King Interviews Michelle Obama!

ET's Kevin Frazier speaks to radio talk show host Gayle King about her new interview with Michelle Obama.

Gayle, who is in Denver with her best pal Oprah Winfrey, said despite the political pressure that comes with the convention, Michelle was calm had fun during the interview. Gayle said she was more nervous for Michelle - who addresses the convention tonight - but said Michelle told her just to relax.

Gayle King has taken her "Oprah and Friends" XM Radio show on the road and is broadcasting live this week from the DNC.

Barack Obama Asks Jennifer Hudson to Sing National Anthem

ET confirms that Oscar-winning 'Dreamgirl' Jennifer Hudson will sing the National Anthem at the Democratic National Convention, after Barack Obama himself requested it. She will sing the night Obama accepts the nomination for president.

Madonna Kicks Off 'Sticky and Sweet' Tour

Looking fit and feisty, Madonna kicked off her 'Sticky and Sweet' tour Saturday night at the 75,000-capacity Millennium Stadium in Cardiff, Wales. Turning 50 hasn't slowed down the Material Mom one bit, as she strutted her stuff in fine form with an athletic performance featuring a variety of costume changes, set pieces and songs. Britain's Daily Mail reports the pop superstar arrived onstage in a vintage automobile, dressed in a Givenchy outfit for "Pimp," the first section of the four-part themed show. "Old School," "Gypsy" and "Rave" rounded out the sections, which incorporated many of Madonna's hits while highlighting different musical, dancing and cultural styles.

For Ex-'Idol' Ace Young -- 'Grease' is the Word

Another "American Idol" contestant heads to the Great White Way when Ace Young joins the Broadway cast of "Grease."

The season five contestant, who hails from Denver, Colorado, will take over the role of Kenickie -- second-in-command of the T-Birds and played by Jeff Conaway in the movie. His first day on stage is September 9th.

Kiss by j-entercom

My friend Melody ask me to watch this video. At first, I was hesitant but she convince me that this video is nice and she assures that I'm going to enjoy. For the sake of our friendship(hehehehe), I watch and I never regret. The music and lyrics of the song are pleasant to hear. Those of you who are in love, please check these out.. I'm sure you'll gonna enjoy as I do..

Ashlee Simpson 'Excited' For New Baby

With her baby bump growing daily, Ashlee Simpson tells ET Canada that she and her rocker husband Pete Wentz can't wait to become parents.

"We're both so excited. I mean, this is definitely the happiest moment in my life," Ashlee told ET Canada. "We're getting the nursery ready."

Ashlee also had many good things to say about her supportive hubby Pete. "I have the greatest husband. He's so awesome. It's just fun to have somebody that I love to do this with."

Ashlee said they have not yet chosen on a name for the baby and they plan to wait until after the birth to decide. As for any plans to move, she said that, too, was undecided, but added, "The first year will probably be at home in L.A."

Featured Blogs of the Day

Here are my favorite blogs to read:

Lynel; talks about motherhood
http://chelseaheather.blogspot.com

Dat-dat; talks about her adventurous life.

http://datdat-dreamscometrue.blogspot.com/

Marly; talks about her life's adventure.
http://marlysefcik.blogspot.com/

Neil; talks about bankruptcy.
http://www.bankruptcyinfo.org.uk/

LGB; talks about third sex.
http://thehostess.wordpress.com

Woman accused of beating fiance at prenup party

POULSBO, Wash. — A Poulsbo woman was jailed after being accused of beating up her fiance at their prenuptial party. Kitsap County sheriff's deputies said the woman's 12-year-old son told her he saw her fiance kissing one of her women friends early Thursday morning.

Deputies said the woman, 31, gave her friends the boot, told her fiance to leave, too, and then started hitting him in the face.

When he left the house, they say, she tackled him football-style, punched him some more, threw his watch into the bushes and broke his glasses.

Responding to a 911 call from her son, deputies arrested the woman for investigation of fourth-degree assault.

Sheriff's Lt. Kathy Collings said the woman was released from jail later Thursday.

There's no word on whether the marriage took place.

Angel the dog credited with saving kittens

RENO, Nev. — You've heard of man bites dog. What about, dog saves cats? A two-year-old dog that had been turned over to the Nevada Humane Society's shelter in Reno is being credited with rescuing six abandoned kittens.

Shelter Director Diane Blankenburg said it happened Monday while the two-year-old Boxer/Pit Bull mix named Angel was on a walk with a pair of volunteers, Frank Gomez and his 9-year-old stepson, Joel Fontes.

They were walking on the hot day with temperatures in the 90s when the dog became obsessed with something in the bushes. When she refused to move on, Gomez investigated and discovered a box full of 3-week-old orange tabby kittens that were frightened and hungry.

One of the abandoned kittens escaped before shelter staff were summoned to the scene, but Angel tracked it down and Gomez handed it over to safety.

Boy wanders into Mexico after school bus mix-up

YUMA, Ariz. — School officials in San Luis, Ariz., are investigating a busing mix-up that ended with a 6-year-old boy wandering alone in Mexico.

Gadsden Elementary School District board President Luis Marquez says that if any failure is found in the school transportation system, it will be corrected immediately.

The boy was headed home last week when he boarded a school bus with a different route than the one he usually takes.

The boy's mother said her son was disoriented when he got off and crossed into San Luis Rio Colorado, Mexico. She says her son thought he could reach his grandfather's home in Mexico.

The 6-year-old was returned home safely after being found by a passer-by in Mexico.

Italian priest organizes beauty contest for nuns

ROME — An Italian priest and theologian said Sunday he is organizing an online beauty pageant for nuns to give them more visibility within the Catholic Church and to fight the stereotype that they are all old and dour.

The "Miss Sister 2008" contest will start in September on a blog run by the Rev. Antonio Rungi and will give nuns from around the world a chance to showcase their work and their image.

"Nuns are a bit excluded, they are a bit marginalized in ecclesiastical life," Rungi told The Associated Press after Italian media carried reports of the idea. "This will be an occasion to make their contribution more visible."

Rungi, a theologian and schoolteacher from the Naples area, said that visitors to his site will have a month to "vote for the nun they consider a model."

Nuns will fill out a profile including information about their life and vocation as well as a photograph. It will be up to them to choose whether to pose with the traditional veil or with their heads uncovered.

"We are not going to parade nuns in bathing suits," Rungi said by telephone from his town of Mondragone. "But being ugly is not a requirement for becoming a nun. External beauty is gift from God, and we mustn't hide it."

Rungi said the idea was first suggested to him by nuns with whom he regularly prays and works. He hopes there will be dozens of submissions once the Web site is started.

The contest drew criticism from the association of Catholic teachers.

"It's an initiative that belittles the role of nuns who have dedicated themselves to God," the group's president, Alberto Giannino, told Italy's ANSA news agency on Sunday.

Cousin Lynel Morning Prayer

Let me share to you my cousin Lynel's morning prayer:
Heavenly Father,
Sometimes our lives are filled with sorrow and overpowered with pain.
Some of our experiences damages our bodies, minds, hearts and souls...
Be near to us when we are lonely and afflicted, agitated and rebellious..
Embrace us with your love and heal us with your grace..
Be with us, to protect us, to care for us, and to love us...
Grant us courage so that we may live for daily, to proclaim your goodness.
This we ask in Jesus name AMEN.

McCain beats Obama in race of hissing cockroaches

NEW BRUNSWICK, N.J. — This presidential race was no contest: John McCain sped to the finish while Barack Obama was reluctant to leave the starting point.

But there's no guarantee giant Madagascar hissing cockroaches will predict the real result in November.

The roach race Thursday was part of the New Jersey Pest Management Association's annual clinic and trade show.

Organizers liken the race's prediction success to that of Punxsutawney Phil on Groundhog Day.

Association Executive Director Leonard Douglen says the 2000 roach race came close. The Gore roach won by an antenna, hanging chads not included.

Utah politician seals deal with horse kiss

FARMINGTON, Utah — Lose a bet, kiss a horse. That's how Davis County Commissioner Alan Hansen found himself kissing a 3-year-old sand-colored horse named Reno.

The smooch stemmed from a contest between employees at Davis County and the Davis Hospital and Medical Center. The rules: Members of the team that lost the most weight got to watch their boss kiss a farm animal. This year, the county employees won - county staffers lost 397.6 pounds, just slightly trimmer than the hospital workers.

Hansen missed out when his fellow commissioners locked lips with a cow over the weekend.

So on Tuesday, Hansen met Reno on the front steps of the county courthouse and puckered up for what became a quick peck.

But not before he slathered on some lip balm and popped a breath mint.

He told the mare: "This is more for you than me."

Woman who had dogs cloned wanted in Tennessee

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — A woman who made headlines by having five pups cloned and was linked to an abduction case in England is also wanted in Tennessee on charges she tried to plan a burglary in 2004, a defense attorney and prosecutors there said.

Joyce Bernann McKinney was charged in Carter County with criminal conspiracy to commit aggravated burglary, contributing to the delinquency of a minor and failure to appear in court, said attorney David Crockett, who represented her in the Tennessee case. Authorities there said she instructed a 15-year-old boy to break into a house, and Crockett said she needed the money to buy a false leg for a beloved horse.

Crockett said Thursday he hasn't heard from her since she skipped a court date, but after seeing television coverage of the cloning case, he's certain she's the same person known to the world as dog lover Bernann McKinney.

Prosecutors are reviewing charges against the 58-year-old McKinney to decide whether to pursue the case, said Melanie Widener, an assistant district attorney for the county in the northeast part of the state near the North Carolina state line.

"It'll depend on where she is now, how important the case is, how much it would cost the taxpayers and whether witnesses are still around," she said.

McKinney declined comment when reached by phone Thursday.

McKinney was arrested in November 2004 in Tennessee in a van with the 15-year-old, according to a Carter County Sheriff's Department arrest report.

McKinney, then living across the state line in Avery County, N.C., needed money to help her three-legged horse, Crockett said.

"She loved it dearly," Crockett said. "She was a rather bizarre character, and seems to have a strange circumstance now."

He recalled that McKinney had two or three dogs in her car when she conferred with him about her case.

"There was a strong aroma about her, and I told her this needed to be taken care of before I went to court with her," Crockett said.

McKinney made news around the world this summer when she had five pups cloned in South Korea from her beloved pit bull Booger.

She later confirmed she was Joyce McKinney, who in 1977 became a British tabloid sensation over the kidnapping case. She faced charges of unlawful imprisonment after she was accused of abducting a Mormon missionary in England, handcuffing him to a bed and making him her sex slave. She jumped bail and was never brought to justice.

"She is bold to put herself on worldwide television," Crockett said. "She must know she's a fugitive in at least one state."

Brothers, father arrested in pawn shop raid

Four Oaks, N.C. — Johnston County deputies arrested two brothers and their father during a raid on a pawn shop Wednesday night as part of a two-year undercover investigation.

Brothers Joseph and Michael Murray, who own Murray's Pawn shop on U.S. Highway 301, bought stolen goods and ran a drug operation out of the business, authorities said.

Their father, whose name was not released, was arrested after he showed up with a concealed weapon during the sheriff’s raid, authorities said. It was unclear if the father was involved in any illegal activities at the pawn shop.

Johnston County Sheriff Steve Bizzell said deputies found stolen property, guns and drugs during the late-night raid.

While his office suspected the pawn shop was dealing in illegal goods for the past two years, Bizzell said the arrests didn't become possible until informants and undercover agents infiltrated the store.

“We’re excited tonight. We seized this and closed this store down for now,” Bizzell said. “Apparently, (the brothers) were accepting stolen items that apparently were stolen from Lowe’s stores."

Shortly after getting warrants to search the pawn shop, deputies arrested the Murray brothers. Their arrests came after a multi-county investigation into the sale of drugs and stolen goods at the store, officials said.

The brothers also sold stolen property online, authorities said. Investigators seized two cars and a truck at the scene and said they found guns and drugs inside them.

Deputies were still hauling evidence out of the store Thursday morning.

“(The Murray brothers) are no strangers. We know who they are,” Bizzell said. “They’ve been in the court system. The courts failed (and) did not do their jobs. That’s why we’re here tonight.”

Husband pleads for leniency for drunk driver who killed his wife

Raleigh, N.C. — The husband of a bicyclist killed on the road made an emotional plea for leniency for the former North Carolina State University student accused of hitting his wife with his truck while driving drunk.

Brian Anthony Reid, 21, was charged with felony death by motor vehicle and driving while impaired in the April 23 death of Nancy Leidy. Reid pleaded guilty to both felony charges as part of a plea agreement Thursday.

Leidy, 60, died after Reid's truck hit her while she was riding on Nazareth Street near the N.C. State University campus.

During Reid's sentencing hearing, Leidy’s husband, Ross Leidy, described his wife as a giving, caring and outgoing woman.

“I want people to know what this woman was all about and talk from his heart, which I think he (Reid) would do,” Ross Leidy said in court Thursday.

Ross Leidy said part of him wanted Reid to go to jail, but thought the student could do more good talking to fellow students and working with Mothers Against Drunk Driving to help others learn from his mistake.

“I think this kid would do a lot more good talking and telling about what’s happened to his life and what’s happened to my life as opposed to sitting in jail,” Ross Leidy said.

“Like Mr. Leidy said, I think, I can have a greater impact on the outside talking with people and sharing my experience,” Reid told the judge.

During a break in the court proceedings, Leidy also extended a hand of friendship to the Reid family.

Judge Don Stephens sentenced Reid to 36 months' probation and 400 hours of community service, which includes 100 appearances at high schools in Wake or Alamance counties to talk about the dangers of drunk driving.

Stephens told Reid he was lucky, saying the man whose wife he killed was his biggest advocate for leniency.

“He’s moved on and you need to move on, too, but you need to move on in a very positive way – to get your act together, young man, and do all the right things to correct the wrong,” Stephens said.

Reid was also sentenced to five weekends in jail at a time designated by his probation officer. Reid must also pay restitution of $10,428 to Ross Leidy.

During the probation period, Reid cannot drive or drink. If he does, he will face jail time. He also must submit to regular testing.

According to court records, Reid registered a 0.12 in an alcohol breath test and admitted to police that he had been drinking before he struck Leidy.

During Thursday’s hearing, prosecutors said officers who questioned Reid on April 23 reported that the student slurred his words, had trouble talking and failed field sobriety tests. He had been celebrating his 21st birthday the night before.

Prosecutors said Leidy was observing the rules of the road for a bicyclist.

On Thursday, Reid’s defense attorney, Rusty DeMent, said his client is very remorseful and has apologized to Ross Leidy. DeMent said Reid has also completed the recommended steps for alcohol treatment.

DeMent said that prior to the incident, Reid was a stand-out engineering and ROTC student at N.C. State who dreamed of becoming a naval officer.

On the night before the accident, DeMent said his client had too much to drink, went home and got sick, but went to class the next morning anyway.

Reid recently withdrew from the N.C. State and is now enrolled at Alamance Community College, DeMent said. The senior hopes to transfer to Methodist University in Fayetteville.

Young students to get ID badges for bus boarding

Raleigh, N.C. — Thousand of students will be boarding yellow buses Monday as traditional-calendar schools in Wake County start classes.

After a couple of problems with young students and their routes, school officials are trying to reassure parents that riding the bus is safe.

One change made by school officials is that all kindergartners and first-graders will get an identification card on the first day of school that they will wear for the first few weeks. It will have the school's name, student's name, bus stop location and route printed on it.

“We're looking forward to the start of another great traditional year,” Don Haydon, the school district's chief facilities and operations officer, said Thursday.

On the minds of drivers and administrators are two unfortunate incidents over the summer with year-round students. A 5-year-old was dropped off at a bus stop miles from home, and a 6-year-old was dropped off at the wrong time – far from his home.

One bus driver resigned and the other was disciplined. In response to the incidents, every bus driver attended a training session over the summer. It re-emphasized the procedures and practices for picking-up and dropping-off students.

“We reinforced the policy. We don't anticipate a repeat of the problem,” Hayden said.

Bus drivers say the ID badges will help reduce confusion, which can occur with almost 900 school buses making 25,000 stops to pick up nearly 70,000 students.

“I don't think we'll have any more incidents like that. With the ID badge, I think it will be real good,” bus driver Gloria Watson said.

If during the route a bus driver realizes one of the students is on the wrong bus, policy states that student must be brought back to school to be dealt with there.

If a parent is not at the stop to pick up a kindergartner or first-grader, that student will remain on the bus.