Phobia of Maria

Michelle Obama's offensive photo removed from Google.com but Michelle Obama bad pic in Google Images

noreply@blogger.com (maria) — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 06:32:17 PST

Lots of people are Googling first ladyMichelle Obama's name right now because if you typed "Michelle Obama" into Google.com 10 days ago, an offensive photo of Michelle Obama with her face morphed to looked like a monkey appeared in the Google.com search engine results where it says "Image results for Michelle Obama."

Search Engine Roundtable first reported the offensive pic of Michelle Obama, and while one post says they're glad Google took it down from the search-engine results -- another section says that they gave Google a hard time for removing the removing the Michelle Obama result.

This is because Google claims it in its policies that they don't remove offensive pics.

At least 46 dead in pre-poll Philippines massacre

noreply@blogger.com (maria) — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 06:29:49 PST

Police in the Philippines have found more bodies at a shallow grave in the south of the country, bringing the total number of victims kidnapped yesterday to a least 46.

They were ambushed by gunmen as they travelled to register nominations for next May’s election and were reportedly hacked to death or shot a point blank range.

The President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo has declared a state of emergency.

‘‘No effort will be spared to bring justice to the victims and hold the perpetrators accountable to the full limit of the law. The chief of staff has ordered the establishment of check and choke points,’‘ she said.

The Island of Mindanao is notorious for violence between rival clans but even this pre-poll attack has shocked ordinary Filipinos.

Suspicion for the massacre has fallen on a powerful town mayor after four witness claimed gunman loyal to him stopped the victims convoy, which included around a dozen journalists.

Central government control remains weak. Awash with weapons the region is often run by political warlords who maintain private armies.

Kris Brown: Brown takes loss hard

noreply@blogger.com (maria) — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 06:27:07 PST

Kris Brown missed another potential game-tying field goal in Monday night's loss to the Titans.
Brown could have sent last night's game to overtime with a 49-yard boot and also had a chance to send the Texans into overtime with a 46-yard kick in Week 9 against the Colts. "It's totally on me," Brown said. "The frustrating part for me is we have 44 guys out there busting their tail and one guy out there not doing his job, which is me." Brown is not in danger of losing his job

2nd Test India vs Sri Lanka Live Update - 5,324 views Read more: http://www.dailylatestnews.com/2009/11/24/2nd-test-india-vs-sri-lanla-live-update-01

noreply@blogger.com (maria) — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 06:26:23 PST

Today there is 2nd test match of India and Sri Lanka in Kanpur. The toss is won by India. The captain Manendra Singh Dhoni chose to do batting first. It is said that the pitch of Green Park is auspicious forIndian cricket team.

Team prescribed for this match is as follows:

Indian Team: Sachin Tendulkar, Virender Sehwag, Rahul Dravid, Gautam Gambhir, Yuvraj Singh, MS Dhoni, VVS Laxman, Harbhajan Singh, Zaheer Khan, Sreesanth, Pragyan Ojha.

Srilanka: Kumar Sangakkara (captain), Tillakaratne Dilshan, Thilan Samaraweera, Tharanga Paranavitana, Angelo Mathews, Mahela Jayawardene, Ajantha Mendis, Prasanna Jayawardene, Muttiah

In this match India vs Srilanka 2nd test, there are two changes in Indian team. There is Ishant Sharma in place of Sreesanth and Pragyan Ojha in place of Amit Mishra.

Sehwag is playing like ODI right now. You can check Ind vs SL 2nd test match live cricket score in the right side bar. India’s opening pair is playing very well right now. Match is coming live on Neo Sports and online live cricket streaming can be seen on Cricket Nirvana.

Jennifer Lopez Falls During AMAs

noreply@blogger.com (maria) — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 04:45:16 PST

Jennifer Lopez took a spill during her performance at Sunday's 2009 American Music Awards. While performing her new song 'Louboutins' at L.A.'s Nokia Theatre on Sunday, she climbed a stair of dancers and jumped off. That's when Lopez landed on her butt instead of her feet, but she made a quick recovery. Near the end, she asks: "You miss me?"

This was her first single from her new album, due in stores next year.

Flanked by backup dancers, the 40-year-old entertainer busts out her Fly Girl moves in a number that begins in a boxing ring and ends in the audience.

Near the very end of her performance, Lopez asked "Do you miss me?" Wonder who she was referring to?

How does Mystery Google work and What is Mystery Google

noreply@blogger.com (maria) — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 04:43:54 PST

How does Mystery Google work and What is Mystery Google. Searching on Google Mystery is fun. It is not the same search engine that gives accurate search results every time you turn ton it for searching everything under the sun. It is fun and enjoy the fun if you have time.

Miss California crowned

noreply@blogger.com (maria) — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 04:42:26 PST

Out of 133 women vying to become the 2010 Miss California on Sunday in Rancho Mirage, a 24-year-old representing Sherwood in Ventura County took home the crown.

“I think it was my presentation,” said winner Nicole Johnson. “I was very confident on the stage, and I stood out in a red gown. So I think maybe that was it.”

Johnson beat out an apparent crowd favorite, Nana Meriwether representing Beverly Hills.

Meriwether was the runner-up and will fill in for Johnson should she not be able to fulfill her Miss California duties.

Tami Farrell also was crowned during the show after taking over from 2009 winner Carrie Prejean, who was stripped of her title in June.

“She was crowned tonight so that she, too, can have the moment,” said Heather Witbeck, a pageant spokeswoman.

Katie Polos, a 19-year-old from Yucca Valley representing Palm Springs, did not make it past the top 15 elimination round.

“It was a lot of fun. Especially making friends with all the girls,” Polos said after the pageant. Polos said she will resume her studies at Orange Coast College in Costa Mesa with plans to become a teacher.

Her family and friends attended the pageant, all wearing red T-shirts reading ‘Team Polos Palm Springs.'

They were able to drown out the audience at one time, cheering “Palm Springs.”

Katie Polos' sister, 17-year old Brea Polo, competed in the Miss Teen California competition.

The two-hour Miss California competition, hosted by The Insider's Chris Jacobs and former Miss USA 1995 Shanna Moakler, included swimwear, evening gowns and interviews.

Johnson was asked by judge Hill Harper, “What do you consider the most significant challenge facing the state of California?”

“Focusing on what we truly believe in,” she answered. “Sometimes we are very divided, and I feel if we can unite and be one state and focus our beliefs in one thing, I think we can succeed and be a very dominant state.”

After the pageant, Johnson said in a ballroom at casino that she was looking forward to further competition.

“I would like to get to USA and then to Universe (pageants), and then we will see where my career takes me,” she said.

Johnson said she would like to be a Formula One racing correspondent in the future when her pageant competitions are behind her.

She will compete in the Miss USA pageant in April in Las Vegas.

Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa was among those in the crowd Sunday.

The pageant intermittently showed videos of contestants in the Coachella Valley golfing, off-roading and shopping at the Gardens at El Paseo.

The contestants stayed at the Riviera Resort and Spa in Palm Springs while competing in the pageant.

Lady Gaga Gave Fiery,Smashing 2009 American Music Awards Performance

noreply@blogger.com (maria) — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 04:40:39 PST

Lady Gaga Gave fiery,smashing 2009 American Music Awards performance. Lady Gaga started of her 2009 “American Music Awards” performance off by singing her song, “Bad Romance” (video below). She wore a glittering H.R. Geiger-inspired headpiece and a nude bodysuit,along with with six pansexual dancers that whirled around her.

She started singing some high notes, then set down her headpiece,and started doing some very unique dance moves. After that ,she collapsed to the floor while her dancers crawled behind her.

Then,the music stopped,she grabbed her mic stand,and walked over to her piano,which was incased in glass. She smashed through the glass, to get to the piano. After that,she played and sang her song, “Speechless” while her piano was in flames.

Towards the end, Lady Gaga grabbed some bottles,and smashed them on the piano as she kept playing. The crowd gave her a standing ovation.

Strong Leonid Meteor Shower Peaks Early Tuesday Morning

noreply@blogger.com (maria) — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 05:17:20 PST

One of the best annual meteor showers will peak in the pre-dawn hours Tuesday, and for some skywatchers the show could be quite impressive.

The best seats are in Asia, but North American observers should be treated to an above average performance of the Leonid meteor shower, weather permitting. The trick for all observers is to head outside in the wee hours of the morning – between 1 a.m. and dawn – regardless where you live.

The Leonids put on a solid show every year, if skies are clear and moonlight does not interfere. This year the moon is near its new phase, and not a factor. For anyone in the Northern Hemisphere with dark skies, away from urban and suburban lighting, the show should be worth getting up early to see.

"We're predicting 20 to 30 meteors per hour over the Americas, and as many as 200 to 300 per hour over Asia," said Bill Cooke of NASA's Meteoroid Environment Office. Other astronomers who work in the nascent field of meteor shower prediction have put out similar forecasts.

Urban dwellers and suburbanites will see far fewer, as the fainter meteors will be drowned out by local lights.

Behind the Leonids

The Leonids are created by the comet Tempel-Tuttle, which passes through the inner solar system every 33 years on its orbit around the sun. Each time by, it leaves a new river of debris, mostly bits of ice and rock no bigger than a sand grain but a few the size of a pea or marble.

Over time, these cosmic streams spread out, so predicting exactly what will happen is difficult.

"We can predict when Earth will cross a debris stream with pretty good accuracy," Cooke said. "The intensity of the display is less certain, though, because we don't know how much debris is in each stream."

When Earth plows into the debris, the bits hit the atmosphere and vaporize, creating sometimes dramatic streaks of light and the occasional fireball with a smoky-looking trail that can remain visible for several minutes.

The Leonid stream is moving in the opposite direction of Earth, producing impact speeds of 160,000 mph (72 kilometers per second) – higher than many other meteors.

"Such speeds tend to produce meteors with hues of white, blue, aquamarine and even green," says Joe Rao, SPACE.com's skywatching columnist.

How to watch

The best viewing will be in rural areas. Get out of town if you can. If you have local lights, scout a location in advance where the lights are blocked by a building, tree or hill.

Dress warmly, and take a blanket or lounge chair so you can lie back and scan as much of the sky as possible. "At this time of year, meteor watching can be a long, cold business," Rao reminds people.

Leonids can appear anywhere, but if you trace them back, they all point to a hub, or radiant, in the constellation Leo – hence the name.

Give your eyes 15 minutes to adjust to the darkness. Then give the show at least a half-hour. The hourly rates stated above typically come in bursts, with lulls that may test your patience. No special equipment is needed. Telescopes and binoculars are of no use because meteors move too quickly.

When to watch

Earth will pass through one of the denser debris streams at around 4 a.m. EST (1 a.m. PST) Tuesday. If you have only an hour or less to watch, center it around this time. Leo will be high in the sky for East Coast skywatchers, putting more meteors into view. In the West, Leo will be low in the eastern sky at this time, so fewer shooting stars will be above the horizon, and therefore Western skywatchers should also try to stick it out until daybreak.

Across Europe, the best bet is to watch anytime between 1 a.m. and daybreak local time.

The planet will pass through an even denser stream later, just before dawn Wednesday in Indonesia and China, but that show won't be visible from North America because it will be daytime here.

One truth about the Leonids: They always produce, and they sometimes produce spectacular, unforgettable fireballs.

Pacquiao team target Floyd clash

noreply@blogger.com (maria) — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 08:05:10 PST

Manny Pacquiao's trainer Freddie Roach says he wants his fighter to take on unbeaten American Floyd Mayweather Jr after seeing him defeat Miguel Cotto.

Pacquiao, 30, stopped Cotto in the 12th round of their fight in Las Vegas on Saturday with a stunning performance to become a five-weight world champion.

It confirmed the Filipino's billing as the world's best pound-for-pound boxer.

"The whole world wants to see him fight Mayweather and I want Mayweather," said Roach after the WBO welterweight fight.

Pacquiao's victory over Cotto saw him complete an amazing 12 months in which he has defeated ring legend Oscar de la Hoya, as well as Britain's Ricky Hatton.

It took his record to 50 victories, three defeats, two draws with 38 knockouts to set up a potential clash with the world's previous pound-for-pound king Mayweather.

606: DEBATE

Manny is one of the best boxers ever, but there's a doubt in my mind if his sharp, quick hands can do anything to Floyd's defence

Macheda

The mercurial American returned to the ring from a short-lived retirement following his December 2007 victory over Britain's Hatton with a clinical unanimous decision win over Mexico's Juan Manuel Marquez in September.

A fight between Pacquiao and Mayweather would have global appeal but the Filipino was reticent to talk about his plans for future fights in the immediate aftermath of his victory over Puerto Rico's Cotto.

"My job is to fight in the ring and I think that depends on (Top Rank's Bob) Arum my promoter to negotiate that fight," Pacquiao said.

"I'm just going to take a vacation first and spend time with my family and have fun."

But BBC Radio 5 live's boxing correspondent Mike Costello believes that despite the emphatic nature of his last three fights, meeting Mayweather would be an altogether different proposition.

"The great clamour will now be for this great showdown that everybody in boxing wants to see with Floyd Mayweather to decide who is the world's best pound-for-pound champion," said Costello.

"I think they'll come together on the money but it's going to be a very intriguing fight because Floyd's a technical fighter

Emanuel Steward

"If you look at Pacquiao's last three opponents - De la Hoya, Hatton and Cotto - then they don't offer anything like the defensive and elusive skills that Floyd Mayweather has.

"They also don't have the speed that Floyd Mayweather has. That's what makes it a fascinating match-up and that's why I would suggest that when it comes around it wouldn't be anymore than 50-50."

Hall of Fame trainer Emanuel Steward was at ringside for Pacquiao-Cotto as a summariser for US broadcaster HBO and like Roach, sees only one logical next step for the 30-year-old Filipino.

"There's no doubt you have to go with Mayweather," said Steward.

"When you have a fight that's been made by the public more than the fighters, that's what happened with Tommy Hearns and Sugar Ray Leonard.

"The public said we want that fight to happen and that's why it happened.

"I think they'll come together on the money but it's going to be a very intriguing fight because Floyd's a technical fighter.

"He knows how to wait back and box a little bit and it's going to be a lot different than it was against a guy who comes forward and is not that great on his defence."

Pacquiao vs Cotto Results

noreply@blogger.com (maria) — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 08:02:08 PST

If you didn't shell out $64.95 or find a free live stream somewhere the Pacquiao vs Cotto results are in. Manny Pacquiao defeats Miguel Cotto in a TKO in the final round as the referee stopped the fight 55 seconds into the 12th round. Pacquiao sat with ESPN for a post fight interview which you can see below. Pacquiao amazingly wins his seventh title in seven different weight classes.

Cotto came out strong in the first round but Pacquiao was able to hang in there and started to turn the tide around the sixth round. From there Pacquiao went on the offensive and started attacking Cotto rather than retreating and defending against Cotto's punches.

Manny Pacquiao now moves to 50 - 3 - 2 with 38 KO's and Miguel Cotto drops to 34 - 2 with 27 KO's. Now the talks start up about a Pacquiao vs. Floyd Mayweather fight which everyone wants to see and would net both fighters a huge pay day.

UAA Online: Blue Devils swarm Seawolves at Cameron

noreply@blogger.com (maria) — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 06:57:24 PST

DURHAM, N.C. – A trip to college basketball’s hallowed ground turned into a rough outing for the Alaska Anchorage women’s basketball team Sunday as the Seawolves dropped a 100-32 exhibition decision to host Duke at Cameron Indoor Stadium.

Duke, ranked No. 6 by both major Division I polls, shot 52 percent overall and from the three-point line, getting a game-high 20 points from guard Jasmine Thomas.

The Seawolves, ranked No. 8 in the Division II preseason poll, were led by nine points from senior guard Tamar Gruwell, who did all of her scoring in the first half. Gruwell finished 3-of-6 from three-point range, while senior forward Nicci Miller tallied six points and six rebounds.

Sophomore forward Hanna Johansson scored four points and led UAA with three assists, while junior guard Nikki Aden had five points, two assists and no turnovers in 24 minutes.

UAA is now 1-2 in exhibition games against D-I opponents under head coach Tim Moser, beating Washington State in overtime in Nov. 2007, and losing 60-49 at New Mexico last year.

The Seawolves begin their regular season in one week when they host the first of two games against Hawaii-Hilo, Sunday, Nov. 15 at 5 p.m. at the Wells Fargo Sports Complex.

Hurricane Ida Closings

noreply@blogger.com (maria) — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 06:55:45 PST

Escambia County, Florida Public Schools will be closed Monday and Tuesday due to Hurricane Ida. Schools will also be closed on Wednesday in observance of Veterans Day.

Baldwin County Public Schools will be closed Monday.

Mobile County Catholic Schools will let out early at 12:30pm

Baldwin County Catholic Schools will be closed Monday.

Bayside Academy will be closed Monday.

Jubilee Christian Academy will be closed Monday.

Little Ducklings Child Care in Daphne will be closed Monday.

Central Christian School of Baldwin will be closed Monday.

1st Baptist CDC Bay Minette daycare will be cloed Monday.

Alabama Gulf Coast Christian Academy (Baldwin County) Closed Monday and Tuesday.

Open Door Christian School and Day care- Foley- Closed Monday.

Learning Tree Preschool Fairhope is closed following Baldwin county recommendations.

OTHER CLOSURES
ALL Baldwin Rural Area Transportation System (BRATS) Routes will be
CANCELLED Monday, November 9, 2009.

All Baldwin County Judicial Courts and Court Proceedings will be
CLOSED on Monday, November 9, 2009.

OPEN SHELTERS

Pensacola High School Gymnasium 500 West Maxwell Street, Pensacola 32501 - Open at 10 a.m. Monday

Molino Park Elementary – will also serve as a pet shelter – Buildings 1-5, 899 Highway 97, Molino 32577 - Open at 10 a.m. Monday

West Florida Technical (Special Needs Only) - Buildings 25 and 26, 2400 Longleaf Drive, Pensacola 32526 - Open at 12 p.m. Monday

Baldwin County Coliseum 19477 Fairground Road, Robertsdale, AL- Open at 10 a.m.

Cowboys vs. Eagles Score - Sunday Night Football - November 8, 2009

noreply@blogger.com (maria) — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 06:53:58 PST

The Cowboys vs. Eagles score dropped my ATS picks to 1 - 1 from yesterday as the Cowboys were able to pull away from the Eagles in the fourth quarter for the 20 - 16 win. I thought the Eagles would be geared up for this game seeing as they were on their home turf and a win meant sole possession of first place in the NFC East division. But I guess that's why I'm not a professional handicapper.

The Cowboys jumped out early 7 - 0 lead after Donovan McNabb threw an interception which set up the Cowboys in prime position at the Eagles 37 yard line. With the short field Dallas took advantage and worked their way into the red zone, eventually scoring when Tashard Choice grabbed the direct snap and took it 2 yards into the end zone to give his team the lead.

After taking a 10 - 6 lead into halftime the Cowboys quickly fell behind in the third quarter as McNabb lead his team down the field with their first possession of the second half for the go ahead touchdown. But the Cowboys fought back, tieing it up with a field goal and then going ahead with 49 yard touchdown pass from Tony Romo to Miles Austin, putting the Cowboys ahead 20 - 13.

The Eagles pulled a little closer with a field goal with 4:26 to go but my hopes of a 2 - 0 day on my picks went away as the Cowboys got a couple first downs and ran the clock out. So my last pick goes tonight and the Steelers need to cover the small one point spread for me to go 2 - 1 on my picks for week 9. It should be a good game as the Broncos try to prove the remaining doubters wrong and show everyone they are for real. They'll have to do it against the tough Steelers defense. The game kicks off tonight at 8:30 p.m. EST on ESPN.

Paris Hilton, U2 and LeAnn Rimes bring star power to Las Vegas

noreply@blogger.com (maria) — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 03:31:15 PST

Paris Hilton and Doug Reinhardt at his 24th birthday celebration at Body English in the Hard Rock Hotel on Oct. 24, 2009.

It was a musically-diverse weekend in Las Vegas, as U2, The Black Eyed Peas, Alice Cooper, Everlast, Gordon Lightfoot, and LeAnn Rimes all performed on Friday.

Bono and the boys brought their 360 Degrees tour to the Sam Boyd Stadium on Friday, along with openers the Black Eyed Peas.

Fergie, Will.i.Am, Apl.de.ap and Taboopopped by The Bank later that night for their official afterparty, though Will.i.am had to cut his post-concert celebrating short in order to make it from the Bellagio to the Palms in time for his second gig of the evening, a guest spot at Rain.

Among those taking in Will.i.am's set (separately) were Boston Red Sox outfielder Jacoby Ellsburyand Senator John McCain's daughter, Meghan McCain.

Alice Cooper followed up Thursday night's show at the John Varvatos store at the Hard Rock and on Friday brought his “Theater of Death Tour” to The Orleans Showroom. The well-spoken shock-rocker played three consecutive shows there, Friday through Sunday.

Cooper had dinner at Simon at Palms Place on Saturday night, along with fellow musician Steve Miller. ("They enjoyed steaks and mac-n-cheese," said a source.)

Meanwhile, Jermaine Dupri heated things up on the Strip on Friday as he returned to Privé at Planet Hollywood.

Tennessee Titan Ahmard Hall and fellow pro athlete, Minnesota Twin Joe Mauer, partied at Pure on Friday, along with comedian Carlos Mencia.

Everlast and Lightfoot were off the Strip on Friday night, with the former planning a scaled-down show at Wasted Space at the Hard Rock Hotel and the latter having taken to the stage out at Aliante Station.

Also playing a significant stone's throw from the Strip on Friday evening were alternative rockers, the Stone Temple Pilots. The group did their thing out in Primm, at the Star of the Desert Arena.

Slightly closer to the great boulevard on Friday night, The M Resort went country with a performance by Tim McGraw.

Fellow country artist LeAnn Rimes, on the other hand, was in the midst of activity on the Strip that night, and performed at Treasure Island. (She also stopped by the Encore on Friday to have breakfast -- without flame Eddie Cibrian -- at Society Cafe inside Encore on Friday).

Actress Whitney Port was one casino south of Rimes, at The Mirage, on Friday. She and friends had dinner at Fix before heading to Jet, where she and her “The City" co-star, Samantha Swetra, lived it up in true Las Vegas style.

Academy Award nominee Seymour Cassel was also in Las Vegas this weekend, along with Lacey Chabert, Johnny Whitworth, Adrienne Barbeau and Alfre Woodard. The actors attended a special screening of Cassel's new film, "Reach For Me," on Friday, which was held in conjunction with the AARP Expo at the Las Vegas Hilton.

During his time in town, Cassel also had dinner at Benihana steak house and caught Lani Misalucha in "Voices."

Jessica Alba and her husband, Cash Warren, were spotted on Friday afternoon as they were getting dropped off at the valet at The Palazzo. The couple reportedly made their way through the hotel lobby to VIP check in before making their way to Sam Boyd later that night, for the U2 concert.

They also popped by the Hard Rock Hotel the following night, where they caught the Steve Miller Band at The Joint before hitting the high-limit gaming tables.

They weren't the only famous faces in the U2 audience on Friday night: Paris Hilton and her NFL hubby, Doug Reinhardt, were there, too, as was Dr. Dre and former President Bill Clinton.

"Prison Break" actor Amaury Nolasco and his girlfriend, "House" actress Jennifer Morrison, got things started at the Hard Rock on Friday, first with dinner at Ago, then with a night of dancing at Body English.

Nolasco's co-star, Dominic Purcell, was there, too, and joined the couple on the red carpet on Friday at the grand opening party for the Hard Rock's new Affliction store.

Actress Dawn Olivieri of "Heroes" was also on the carpet that night, and Formula 1 driver Colin Buis; pro skateboarder Rob Blasko Nicholson; and UFC fighters Keith Jardine and Tim Sylviajoined the fun, as well.

As if that wasn't enough for star-sightings on property that night, actor Cole Hauser was also spotted at the Hard Rock on Friday.

Fashion designer Betsey Johnson was also in Las Vegas this weekend, and stopped by the Mirage to catch the 7 p.m. showing of Cirque du Soleil's "Love" on Friday. Johnson also popped by her store (as did "Peepshow" starlet Holly Madison) on Saturday afternoon.

Ray Romano was at the Mirage this weekend and he managed to keep audiences inside the Terry Fator Theatre laughing on both Friday and Saturday.

Saturday’s sightings also included the over-the-top eccentric Canadian-born performer otherwise known as Peaches, who performed as part of Perfecto at the Palms.

Larry Tee followed Peaches' sweet and juicy set at Rain, while former Matchbox 20 frontman, Rob Thomas, took his solo career to The Pearl.

Thomas had dinner at N9NE Steakhouse before his show on Friday, as did "Glee" actor Mark Salling and previously-mentioned MLB catcher Joe Mauer.

Meanwhile, professional gambler David "Devilfish" Ulliott kicked back in the sexy surrounds of Playboy Club, along with Palms showroom headliner Matt Goss and about a dozen others.

While the fish and the Brit sipped their spirits at Playboy Club, actor Justin Berfield (aka Reese Wilkerson from the now-canceled series, "Malcolm in the Middle") was upstairs at Moon.

Earlier that day, another famed gambler, gaming legend Jackie Gaughan celebrated his 89th birthday at the El Cortez. "The champagne was flowing," a witness reported, as Gaughan celebrated with an Elvis impersonator, showgirls and friends.

Also that afternoon, up-and-coming teen hearthrob Justin Bieber gave an in-store performance on the Strip, at the Hard Rock Cafe. The private show was part of a promotion organized by local radio station KLUC 98.5 and saw hordes of young girls flock to the new eatery to check out the emerging artist.

Hilton and Reinhardt reappeared on Saturday over at Circus-Circus when the duo got a little freaky -- or should we say, freaked out -- at Fright Dome. (Vinnie Paul of Pantera also checked out the hotel's spooky spectacle on Sunday, along with Fright Dome owner Jason Egan.)

They later returned to the Hard Rock, where Reinhardt celebrated his birthday, first with dinner at Rare 120, then at Body English.

Meanwhile, Hilton's ex, Good Charlotte musician Benji Madden, performed across the casino floor, at Wasted Space. (Club owner/Hart and Huntington Ink co-founder/pro dirtbike rider/Pink's ex-husband,Carey Hart was also there, as was System of a Down drummer John Dolmayan.)

There was no drama, though, and Amaury Nolasco and Jennifer Morrison joined the birthday boy and his smiley plus-1 at Body English after having dinner at Tao.

Stephen Dorff also had his evening meal at Tao on Saturday, enjoying lobster wontons, bass satays, crispy rice and spare ribs with the club's owners.

After dinner Dorff and the others headed to the upper level nightclub, where boxer Floyd Mayweather Jr. also partied well into the morning.

Also on Saturday: Shaggy hosted at Pure at Caesars Palace and Lil Jon did the same – OK, not the same, but similar – at Privé at Planet Hollywood.

Brent Bolthouse was also at PH’s go-to hot spot on Saturday night, while XXX film starlet Tera Patrick was spotted enjoying dinner next door on the PH mezzanine, at Strip House.

Holly Madison high-tailed it from her home base, Planet Hollywood, after her final “Peepshow” performance on Saturday night and headed north on the Strip, to Encore.

She and a group of both friends and co-stars went to XS to celebrate the birthday of “Peepshow” eye candyman, Josh Strickland.

Wasted Space went from a rock club to a rap club on Sunday as Canadian hip-hoppers Swollen Members took to the stage, along with Big B and Dirtball, Common Market and Bliss n Esso.

And finally, Khloe Kardashian rounded out the weekend’s lineup as the socialite-turned-reality TV star-turned-diet pill-pusher returned to Las Vegas and visited the Mirage for Closet Sundays’ one-year anniversary party at Revolution.

Celebrity hairstylist Kim Vo also came out for the event.

Hurricane Ida projected path, hurricane ida path, Ida sends oil prices spiralling

noreply@blogger.com (maria) — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 03:27:46 PST

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 9 (KUNA): Hurricane Ida projected path, hurricane ida path, Ida sends oil prices spiralling. Oil prices in Asia rose from a one-week low as the dollar weakened and Hurricane Ida entered the Gulf of Mexico, forcing oil companies to close a number of their facilities.

Oil prices exceeded the USD 78 a barrel mark after Ida became stronger upon entering the gulf, which accounts for 27 percent of US oil production and 15 percent of natural gas production.

The dollar declined against 12 of 16 main currencies, making commodities more attractive as investments.

Crude oil for December delivery increased USD 1.02, or 1.3 percent, to USD 78.45 a barrel in after-hours electronic trading on the New York Mercantile Exchange.

In Singapore, it was at USD 78.37 on Monday.

On November 6, contracts dropped USD 2.19, or 2.8 percent, to USD 77.43, the lowest level since October 30, after a US report showed that unemployment climbed to 10.2 percent, the highest in 26 years.

Oil prices also hiked after Petroleos Mexicanos, Mexico's government oil company, closed about 90 wells in Veracruz and Tabasco because of the storms and floods.

Oil reached its highest level in a year, which was USD 82 per barrel, on October 21 as shares hiked, boosting the confidence of investors.

Ida's speed reached 105 miles, or 169 kilometers, per hour.

The Louisiana Offshore Oil Port, which exports oil, stopped loading tankers Sunday afternoon because of high waves.

Deliveries to refiners are being met through stored oil.

The system could provide one million barrels daily, or about 12 percent of US imports.

Chevron, the US's second-largest oil company, said in a press release on Monday that it closed several of its facilities in the gulf and evacuated some of its employees.

Meanwhile, Exxon Mobil Corp., the world's biggest oil company, said its operations in the gulf were normal.

In addition, oil prices were supported by the fall of the dollar against the euro on Monday after the Group of 20 agreed to maintain the stimulus measures.

Investors purchase commodities including crude as an inflation hedge as the currency drops.

The US dollar rate came to 1.4938 per euro in Tokyo Monday, compared to 1.

Angelina Jolie knocks 'em dead in the new 'Salt' trailer (video)

noreply@blogger.com (maria) — Sat, 07 Nov 2009 09:09:24 PST

Angelina Jolie (Photo/indio)

Angelina Jolie plays Evelyn A. Salt, a blond knockout, and performs most of her own stunts in the spy thriller Salt. The film is slated for a Summer of 2010 theater release.

Jolie's character starts out as a demure blond CIA agent who is accused of being a Russian sleeper agent. Throughout the film, she undergoes numerous transformations, and producer Lorenzo di Bonaventura has this to say about her character,

People who think they know the real her may or may not. Those who think they can tell whether she's in a disguise also may or may not. You're supposed to be kept guessing. She tells you her agenda, but are you supposed to believe it?"

Tom Cruise was originally set to portray the title character, who at that time was called Edwin A. Salt. When Cruise dropped out of the project, and Jolie accepted the role, the premise was reworked for a female protagonist.

Rihanna '20 20' full interview with ABC's Diane Sawyer

noreply@blogger.com (maria) — Sat, 07 Nov 2009 09:07:49 PST

Rihanna '20 20' full interview with ABC's Diane Sawyer is available on the web
(AP Photo/ABC, Ida Mae Astute)

Rihanna's full "20/20" interview with ABC's Diane Sawyer is available on the web today. In Part I, pop singer Rihanna talks about the genesis of her dream to become a pop star while growing up in Barbados. In Part II, she talks about dealing with the media frenzy and confused feelings she had after the violent incident she went through with her boyfriend, singer Chris Brown.

"I just had a dream. I had an idea," Rihanna says as the interview opens. "I knew what I wanted to do, and this is what I was going to do. All I wanted to do was make music internationally. In Barbados, it's an unrealistic goal."

When Ms. Sawyer asks her if it's true that she used to stand in front of the mirror holding a hairbrush as a microphone singing "A Whole New World" from the Disney movie Aladdin, she nods and adds "that, and the Little Mermaid song." She smiles, saying she thinks every little girl does that at one time or another.

In Part II, Rihanna explains what helped finally make her decision about her personal relationship with Mr. Brown. "When I realized that my selfish decision for love could result into some young girl getting killed, I could not be easy with that part. I couldn't be held responsible for telling them, 'go back.'"

See Rihanna's full interview with Diane Sawyer on the web. The interview was just posted Saturday morning after it aired on television on ABC's program 20/20 Friday night.

New Mexico Soccer Elizabeth Lambert!

noreply@blogger.com (maria) — Sat, 07 Nov 2009 09:07:06 PST

VIDEO! Here again is YouTube video of New Mexico Women’s Soccer Elizabeth Lambert. New Mexico Elizabeth Lambert was suspended from Soccer play by her University Friday.

In a video profiled that day on LALATE, Lambert assaults BYU women’s soccerKassidy Shumway. Now Lambert is speaking out. Lambert issued the following statement Friday:

“My actions were uncalled for. I let my emotions get the best of me in a heated situation…. This is no way indicative of my character or the soccer player I am.”

New Mexico coach Kit Vela issued the following words:
“Liz is a quality student athlete but in this instance her actions clearly crossed the line of fair play and good sportsmanship.”
The video became the biggest broadcasted video of women’s soccerthis month, replaying on ESPN SportsCenter and going viral online.Online reaction included the following remarks:
I? am sure her parents are sooooo proud.
hey …. ever seen american football people get? paralyzed during games
her behavior was criminal..?She brings shame to her school and her sport.
She needs to be charged with assault. I wouldn’t let her? do that to me.
In the end her team lost.

High School Football Team Near Fort Hood Copes With Tragedy

noreply@blogger.com (maria) — Sat, 07 Nov 2009 09:04:11 PST

The scene here at Leo Buckley Stadium late Friday night was reminiscent of most high school football venues across the country, as the Shoemaker Grey Wolves dealt with the reality their season was over.

Tears were shed, hugs were exchanged between players, coaches and players, coaches and coaches. Then the coaches thanked the seniors for great effort.

But this was no ordinary season-finale ritual for the Grey Wolves. Just over 24 hours earlier, many of them weren't sure if their parents or loved ones were injured -- or worse, killed -- in the deadly shooting rampage at Fort Hood, the nation's largest military base.

Shoemaker High School, which is just a stone's throw away from Fort Hood, is heavily populated with kids whose families either live on base or are serving in the military. With wars going on in Iraq and Afghanistan, these young people have become accustomed to dealing with death.

But that didn't make news of Thursday's deadly rampage any easier for many of them to take. Twelve soldiers and one civilian were killed, and 30 others were wounded. If there was any solace, it was that none of the Grey Wolves' parents or immediate family members were affected by the shooting.

"We just sat there and put our heads together and wished for the best and hoped it was none of our relatives. Luckily, it wasn't. But we came out here to play for them, too, the people from Fort Hood."

"It was tough for us, knowing some of our players' moms and dads were probably hurt or injured," said Shoemaker sophomore quarterback Jammie Blount, whose family is awaiting orders to deplored to Korea soon. "We just sat there and put our heads together and wished for the best and hoped it was none of our relatives. Luckily it wasn't.

"But we came out here to play for them, too, the people from Fort Hood."

"It was really hard for us to come and play this game knowing what went on and that families some of us know were affected," said Shoemaker senior lineman Jaime Bennett, who shed tears when the game was finished. "It was really really tough to get through. But we prayed and then we moved on."

Shoemaker head coach Ken Gray braced for the worst as news spread around Killeen that a shooter was on the loose on base. Around Shoemaker, much more so than the other high schools in the community, helping young kids deal with tragedy is just something teachers, coaches and administrators do.

"We are in a unique situation in that our kids' parents are fighting the war in Iraq and they are fighting the war in Afghanistan and Kuwait and places," Gray said. "So there have been events like this in their lives.

"What we try to do as coaches is we try to keep things as normal as we can and as consistent as we can with our kids. This tragedy from (Thursday) kind of wears on the kids, whether it's their dad or not. Whenever they hear of a soldier passing or getting killed we send up a prayer because you never know when it's one of their parents or relatives."

The Killeen school district shut down all extra-curricular activities the day of the shooting, but higher-ups at Fort Hood expressed the desire to get things back to normal. So it was business as usual Friday night at Buckley Stadium, where the night began as always with a prayer for the soldiers and their families.

"The message this morning from Fort Hood was they wanted to get things back as normal as possible with school and everything else," said Killeen District athletic director Tom Rogers. "So this is our regularly scheduled game.

"There was some discussion early but that went away fairly quickly.

"Any time I've been around football or a sporting event where there has been a tragedy that's happened during that week," he continued, "it's what the kids know and when they get to go to the field it gets them back to their normal life and they get to forget about anything that's going on outside."

But Rogers admitted Thursday was especially tough for the student-athletes.

"A lot of them went through a lot of stress (Thursday) because there was quite a bit of uncertainty for quite a bit of time because so many of their parents work on Fort Hood," Rogers said. "So when they locked things down, rumors started flying and kids start talking and people start talking. There are some things that come out ... There was just a lot of uncertainty so for them to come back and play a game like that tonight was unbelievable."

Winless this season, the Grey Wolves seemed to play inspired football Friday night as they took an early 6-0 lead over rival Temple and then another 12-7 lead in the second quarter before Temple and highly touted running back recruit Lache Seastrunk ran off with a 44-32 victory.

But Gray, whose team made the Texas high school playoffs last season, talked about his team with pride despite their 0-10 season. He saw his team, which lost its three Division I prospects to injury within the first two weeks of the season, fight until the end Friday night.

In fact, the outcome could have been much different for the Grey Wolves had their receivers not dropped three point-blank touchdown passes.

"They were ready to go. Like we told them all week, `You give it all you've got. There's a lot of people that are supporting you throughout the world,' Gray said. "We were getting calls from Iraq, kids were getting text messages from everywhere around the world, because that's where our kids' parents are.

"So there are a lot of people supporting us so I kind of reminded them of that."

Women's soccer player suspended indefinitely

noreply@blogger.com (maria) — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 19:51:14 PST

Athlete clearly crossed the line of good sportsmanship, coach says

It didn’t happen in a dimly lit meeting room, and fans don’t need handwritten testimony to know what happened.

It’s perfectly clear what Elizabeth Lambert did. The UNM soccer player threw punches and pulled the hair of her opponents during a match Thursday, and for this she is suspended indefinitely, head coach Kit Vela said in a statement released on Friday.

“Liz is a quality student-athlete, but in this instance her actions clearly crossed the line of fair play and good sportsmanship,” Vela said.

In the women’s soccer Mountain West Conference Tournament semi-final match between the Lobos andBYU, Lambert repeatedly made aggressive plays. Some bordered on dirty, but others were clearly over the line. Still, Lambert only got one yellow card toward the end of the game.

BYU forward Kassidy Shumway took the harshest of Lambert’s attacks. Lambert yanked down on Shumway’s ponytail, sending her to the turf where she lay for several seconds.

“I am deeply and wholeheartedly regretful for my actions,” Lambert said in a statement Friday. “My actions were uncalled for. I let my emotions get the best of me in a heated situation. I take full responsibility for my actions and accept any punishment felt necessary from the coaching staff andUNM administration.”

Lambert let her emotions get the best of her on a second, third and fourth occasion during the game before she was finished.

Lambert threw a punch to the back of BYU forward Carlee Payne after Payne elbowed Lambert in the stomach.

Later, Payne and Lambert exchanged blows in midair.

And with four minutes left in the game, Lambert tripped a BYU player. Officials penalized Lambert with a yellow card on that play — it was the only penalty Lambert received throughout the game. It was also the only penalty given to either team on Thursday.

BYU head coach Jennifer Rockwood, shying away from talking about the specific incidents, said her team managed to play on through Lambert’s actions.

“Soccer at the Division I level is very physical,” Rockwood said. “Some games are more physical than others, and like I tell my players, we just need not to react when those things happen and make sure we do the best that we can. Both Carlee and Kassidy continued on with the game and really tried hard to not let that affect their play.”

Vice President for Athletics Paul Krebs said Lambert’s actions were reprehensible.

“Liz’s conduct on the field against BYU was completely inappropriate,” Krebs said in a statement. “There is no way to defend her actions.”

Lambert expressed remorse for her actions and apologized to the BYU players.

“This is in no way indicative of my character or the soccer player that I am,” Lambert said. “I am sorry to my coaches and teammates for any and all damages I have brought upon them. I am especially sorry to BYU and the BYU women’s soccer players that were personally affected by my actions. I have the utmost respect for the BYU women’s soccer program and its players.”

BYU went on to win the game, finishing the Lobos’ season at 13-5-3. And with a tournament game tomorrow, Rockwood said the team just wants to move on.

“I think we all understand that soccer is a physical game and that emotions are high,” Rockwood said. “We don’t really want to comment on it. People were battling and giving it a lot of effort, and some unfortunate things happened, and we just want to move forward.”

Univ New Mexico, BYU and Mtn. West Statements on Women's Soccer Conduct

noreply@blogger.com (maria) — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 19:49:57 PST

In consultation with the University of New Mexico, the Mountain West Conference endorses the disciplinary actions being taken by the institution to address the unacceptable conduct of the UNM student-athlete involved -- which violated the MWC Sportsmanship Policy.

The MWC commends the University of New Mexico for its prompt response. The decisive manner in which it was handled is consistent with the MWC Sportsmanship Policy and the principles under which the Conference conducts intercollegiate athletics.

The MWC will continue its internal review of the overall dynamic involved in the match. The Conference will have no further comment regarding this case. The provisions of the MWC Sportsmanship Policy can be found in Rule 4 of the MWC Handbook - which can be accessed via the www.TheMWC.com Web site.

STATEMENT FROM BYU Nov. 6, 2009

Statement from Tom Holmoe, BYU Athletic Director, regarding incident in the BYU-New Mexico womens soccer match on Thurs., Nov. 5

Its an unfortunate incident that occurred in the game Thursday afternoon. The University of New Mexico and the Mountain West Conference have reviewed the situation and have acted appropriately.

Paul Krebs, the New Mexico Athletic Director, has been in contact with me and I am pleased with his immediate response to the matter.

We have a big game tomorrow and a chance to win the conference championship. The girls have worked hard for this opportunity and were all excited to continue playing.

STATEMENT FROM UNM LOBOS

New Mexico Womens Soccer Player Suspended Indefinitely

University of New Mexico head womens soccer coach Kit Vela announced today that junior defender Elizabeth Lambert has been suspended indefinitely for her actions in Thursdays match against BYU in the semifinals of the Mountain West Conference Championship in Provo, Utah.

Effective immediately, Lambert is prohibited from participating in all team practices, competition and conditioning activities.

"I am deeply and wholeheartedly regretful for my actions," said Lambert. "My actions were uncalled for. I let my emotions get the best of me in a heated situation. I take full responsibility for my actions and accept any punishment felt necessary from the coaching staff and UNM administration. This is in no way indicative of my character or the soccer player that I am. I am sorry to my coaches and teammates for any and all damages I have brought upon them. I am especially sorry to BYU and the BYU womens soccer players that were personally affected by my actions. I have the upmost respect for the BYU womens soccer program and its players."

Liz is a quality student-athlete, but in this instance her actions clearly crossed the line of fair play and good sportsmanship, said Vela.Lizs conduct on the field against BYU was completely inappropriate, said UNM Vice President for Athletics Paul Krebs. There is no way to defend her actions.

UCLA basketball: A shocker at halftime vs. Concordia

noreply@blogger.com (maria) — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 05:25:34 PST

This could not have been the start that UCLA fans were hoping for.

A Bruins team that struggled to handle the ball in the backcourt. A Bruins team that could not defend against the drive.

A Bruins team that went into hafltime trailing, 31-28, to Concordia, a small school from Irvine that plays in the NAIA.

The smallish Eagles looked significantly quicker, penetrating the lane, scoring over UCLA big men who offered little in the way of help defense as guard Justin Johnson raced to 17 points.

UCLA guards Malcolm Lee and Mustafa Abdul-Hamid provided no response early. Only the play of forward James Keefe, who made two three-point baskets among his nine points, kept the Bruins close.

Yankees parade set for Friday at 11 a.m. down Canyon of Heroes

noreply@blogger.com (maria) — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 05:23:39 PST

New York City mayor Michael Bloomberg announced Wednesday night that the city will be hosting a ticker-tape parade for the World Series Champion New York Yankees on Friday at 11 a.m. The parade will start at Broadway and Battery Place, travel up through the Canyon of Heroes to Chambers Street and will be followed by a ceremony at City Hall Plaza where Bloomberg will present the team with keys to the city.

“Congratulations to the Yankees for bringing the world championship back home to New York City, where it belongs,” the mayor said.

“What’s sweeter than a World Series won at home? The only thing that comes close is a ticker-tape parade up the Canyon of Heroes, and that’s exactly what New Yorkers will get on Friday.”

For the so-called "Core Four" of Derek Jeter, Mariano Rivera, Jorge Posada and Andy Pettitte it'll be their first ride through the confetti since 2000 after the Bombers took down the Mets in the Subway Series.

"It feels better than I remember," Jeter said after the Yankees clinched their 27th World Series title. "It's been a long time."

According to the Daily News, the cost of parades, like the one the city hosted for the Giants two years ago, runs about $330,000. However, the city only had to cover $24,000 of the parade for the Giants, the rest was paid for by private donors.

The mayor's office warns fans that there are no tickets to the parade route itself or to the floats; it is open to the public. The city urges anyone who knows of people selling tickets to the route or floats to call 311.

However, a limited number of tickets will be made available for people who wish to attend the ceremony inside City Hall Plaza. Details on ticket availability will be announced later today. For folks who can't get a ticket, the ceremony can be watched on a giant screen that will be set up near City Hall Park.

India vs Australia 5th ODI: Live scores update

noreply@blogger.com (maria) — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 05:21:03 PST

Have you been keeping an eye on progress in the 5th ODI match between India and Australia? Don’t worry if you haven’t as we have a score update to give you on the game so far.

As reported from the BBC, Australia have put in a very strong performance during their first innings -managing to score 350 runs in their innings. Top scorer was Marsh who scored a century with an impressive 112 runs.

As for India, Kumar was top wicket taker with two, but they face a struggle to beat Australia’s score. They will be looking at Tendulkar to get them out of trouble.