Jonathan Knight

Tuesday - December 8, 2009 -

noreply@blogger.com (Jonathan Knight) — Tue, 08 Dec 2009 16:56:00 +0000

ON THIS DAY

Eli Whitney was born on this date in 1765. Eli, of course, is famous for inventing the cotton gin. Unfortunately, he died before the cotton tonic was invented.

On this date in 1776, that George Washington and his men crossed the Delaware River by boat... to avoid paying at the toll bridge.

In 1776 that George Washington lead his troops across the Delaware River. The toughest part was stopping long enough to pose for that famous painting.

On this date in 1863, President Lincoln unveiled his plan to rebuild the south. To save money, he suggested that we buy everything at IKEA.

In 1931, coaxial cable was patented. I believe this is a high holy day on the Comcast calendar.

On this date in 1940, an NFL game was broadcast on radio for the first time. Up until that time, you could only hear the games in Morse code and it just wasn't the same.

In 1952, the topic of pregnancy was talked about on television on the show, "I Love Lucy." It was when Ricky was telling Fred what happens when you love Lucy, but forget about the birth control.

TODAY IS

Teri Hatcher turns 45 today. On "Desperate Housewives," she's gone from Carl to Mike to Jackson and back to Mike again in just six seasons. Yes, of all the Desperate Housewives, she seems the most desperate.

Sinead O'Connor turns 43 today. She was such a short-haired rebel in her time. Among her claims to fame: singing on "Saturday Night Live" and then tearing up a picture of the pope. I'm assuming it was some kind of therapy thing.

Sportscaster Roy Firestone turns 56 today. He's a great impressionist, but makes a lousy tire.

Kim Basinger is 56. She's been around all this time and we still don't know if it's BAY-singer or BASS-singer.

THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW

Billy Joel and Christie Brinkley's daughter, Alexa -- now 23 -- had to be rushed to a hospital for an overdose of pills. Dad says she's going to be fine and was upset about a breakup.

Diane Sawyer says this week is her last as co-anchor of ABC's "Good Morning America" as she prepares to replace Charles Gibson on ABC's "World News."

Jake Gyllenhaal was on Jimmy Kimmel and revealed that he recently got a Pittsburgh Steelers tattoo on his lower back.

Julia Roberts is the new face of Lancome.

Tom Brokaw and his wife were involved in a 3-car accident over the weekend, which resulted in a woman being killed. Both Tom and his wife avoided any injuries.

Daniel Powter, whose hit "Bad Day" stayed on top of the Billboard pop charts for five weeks in 2006, was named as the decade's top one-hit wonder by Billboard.

Ron Livingston from "The Office" is suing a Wikipedia hacker for constantly changing his information page to say he is in a gay relationship. He married actress Rosemarie DeWitt last month.

Barbra Streisand's carpenter is suing her for falling into a ditch at her Malibu home back in 2007.

What's your favorite processed food product? Here's a list from alternet.com, with their picks for worst, and most unhealthy, processed food:

- Spray-Can 'Easy Cheese' - Easy Cheese has an amazing texture by containing lots of unhealthy crap, such as the stain-removing chemical trisodium phosphate and a healthy dose of canola oil that keeps the cheese from solidifying. Oh, and they also load Easy Cheese with about twice the amount of salt you'd normally find in natural cheddar cheese.

- Oreo Cookie Death Filling - Oreo stuffing is basically sugar-flavored Crisco.

- Condensed Soups - Consider that a mere half-cup of Campbell's Vegetable Soup contains a heart-stopping 890 mg of sodium, or roughly 37 percent of your daily recommended sodium intake. The typical Campbell's soup can contains one-and-a-half cups of soup, meaning that one can of soup contains more than 90 percent of your daily recommended sodium intake.

- Spam - A meatlike goo that derives 80 percent of its calories from fat and that delivers a whopping 790 mg of sodium per two-ounce serving.

- Artificially Flavored Blueberry Bits - like those found in frozen waffles. Their ingredients include sugar, dextrose, soybean oil, soy protein, salt, citric acid, cellulose gum, artificial flavor, malic acid, Red 40 Lake, Blue 2 Lake and... that's it. Notice anything missing? Oh yeah: blueberries!

- Kraft's Avocado-Free Guacamole - There are no avocados in Kraft's guacamole. Then what is it made of, you ask? How about some modified food starch, coconut and soybean oils, corn syrup, food coloring... in other words, you're eating green-colored oil.

WEIRD NEWS

World's Longest Name! - A teenager from Glastonbury, England is now the proud owner of the world's longest name. 19-year-old George Garratt spent $20 bucks for an online deed service to legally change his name to: "Captain Fantastic Faster Than Superman Spiderman Batman Wolverine Hulk And The Flash Combined." The boy said the name change, unofficially the world's longest name, has his grandmother so outraged that she stopped speaking to him. Captain, as he is now called, said his family has come to expect such antics from him. He came up with the superhero theme on his own, then his friends made suggestions as to what names should be included. (AHN News)

The Bad Breath Bank Robber! - Police in Detroit are looking for a bank robber in desperate need of some dental hygiene. Tellers at the Charter One bank branch that was held up described him as having crooked yellow teeth and particularly bad breath. Witnesses also say he looks and smells dirty. Bad Breath Boy handed the tellers a note demanding money. While he implied he had a gun, no weapon was ever displayed. He escaped with a whopping $1,000. (myway.com)

Do-It-Yourself Railroad! - In Erfut, Germany, a couple of train buffs are now facing jail time after building their own locomotive and then taking it out for a spin on a public rail line. The six-seated train was made out of garden furniture and salvaged train parts, powered by an electric motor and even had its own refreshments car in the shape of a crate of beer. Residents spotted the unorthodox vehicle and called police who had to call in a helicopter to finally locate the rig. The regular train lines had to suspend all services to avoid a collision although the train buffs had at least chosen to have their drive when there had been no trains scheduled. The men who were arrested on the unauthorized vehicle are currently facing public safety charges. (London Oracle)

Gold E. Locks On Trial in Boston! - This past Saturday in Boston, the three little bears hauled Goldilocks to court and charged her with breaking-and-entering as well as vandalism charges! A group of 60 Girls Scouts of eastern Massachusetts acted as the jury in the mock trial at Northeastern University Law School. Lawyers from the Massachusetts Bar Association sat in as judge, prosecutor and defense attorney for the trial. The event was dubbed "Innocent or Guilty: Commonwealth vs. Gold E. Locks." And it just wasn't her day. Gold E. Locks was found guilty on all counts and the court even determined that she's not even a natural blonde! (Boston Herald)

WTF Mr. Truck Driver? - In China, the driver of a semi-tractor-trailer rig was pulled over after driving for hundreds of miles with a sheet of cardboard completely covering his broken front windshield. The driver, identified only as "Mr. Li" drove by sticking his head out of the side window-- in freezing conditions-- or by peering through tiny holes in the cardboard. When stopped by police, Mr. Li jumped down from the cab with a face that was purple from the cold. He told officers he had been in an accident several days earlier but did not have time to repair his truck properly because of his tight delivery schedule. He admitted to police that he had driven with the temporary cardboard windscreen for an incredible 400 miles. He said, "I would drive like that until my neck got too sore and numb, when I would drive by looking through the little holes in the cardboard." (Ananova)

Birth At 20,000 Feet! - A 20-something mother gave birth to a baby boy aboard a Southwest Airlines plane on a flight going to Salt Lake City. The flight had to divert to Denver to bring the passenger and her newborn to a hospital. A doctor and three nurses, who just happened to be on board, worked together to deliver the baby in the rear section of Flight 441 around 10:45 a.m. shortly after the plane took off from Chicago's Midway Airport. The delivery took 15 minutes to deliver the five-pound baby boy and the mother's fellow passengers clapped their hands when the new baby was announced. (AHN News)

Politics Just Getting Weird Now! - The mayor of Arlington, Tennessee, Russell Wiseman, is getting weird on us. In a Facebook post Mayor Wiseman said that President Barack Obama's speech last Tuesday night on the war in Afghanistan was deliberately timed to block the Christian message of the "Peanuts" television Christmas special! He also declared Obama to be a Muslim. Only people on Wiseman's "friend's list" had access to the post but he has more than 1,600 friends on Facebook so the word kind of got out. The post read: "Ok, so, this is total crap, we sit the kids down to watch 'The Charlie Brown Christmas Special' and our Muslim president is there, what a load.....try to convince me that wasn't done on purpose. Ask the man if he believes that Jesus Christ is the Son of God and he will give you a 10 minute disertation (sic) about it when the answer should simply be 'yes'." By the way, the mayor misspelled the word dissertation. In Wiseman's extensive thread that attacked the president, his supporters and Muslims, he stated "You Obama people need to move to a Muslim country...oh wait, that's America....pitiful." When contacted, Wiseman declined to comment about his Facebook posts. (The Commercial Appeal)

TOP FIVE COMMON PHRASES THAT SNOWMEN THINK ARE DIRTY

1. Snow Globes
2. Snow balls
3. Snow job
4. Snow boards
5. Snow plow

HUNTER'S HUMOR by Tim Hunter

Another woman has come forward, claiming to have been one of Tiger Woods' girls. That puts him at six under.

Singer George Michael told a magazine in an interview: 'All I really need is music, sex and TV'. I feel the same way, although if I had to, I could give up the music.

In Philadelphia, a man dressed up as Santa Claus robbed a bank. Police described the man as "jolly and dangerous."

Once arrested, the man could face charges of "felony naughty."

After 50 years of hearing it all, Britain has pulled the plug on their UFO hotline. Our leader, Gelblorb, will be pleased.

Virgin Atlantic has unveiled "Spaceship Two," the first spaceship for commercial travel. Hard to believe that, within just a few short years, my luggage could end up on Venus.

On to ROCK NEWS -

JOHN LENNON REMEMBERED…Today (December 8th) marks the 29th anniversary of John Lennon's death. The 40-year-old Lennon had re-entered public life that fall, after a self-imposed five-year hiatus to spend time with his young son Sean, travel and recharge his creative batteries. On November 17th, 1980, Lennon and wife Yoko Ono had released their "comeback" album Double Fantasy, which included such future Lennon standards as "Woman," "Beautiful Boy," "Watching The Wheels," and the album's lead track and single "(Just Like) Starting Over."

On the night of December 8th, 1980 -- with "(Just Like) Starting Over" sitting at Number Six on the singles charts -- Lennon and Yoko returned home to their apartment building, the Dakota on Manhattan's Central Park West. They had spent the evening at the Record Plant East recording studio mixing a tune of Yoko's called "Walking On Thin Ice." Mark David Chapman, who had been stalking Lennon for several days and had received an autograph from Lennon earlier that evening, lay in wait for his return. Chapman, who was living in Honolulu at the time, had made an unsuccessful trip to New York the previous October with the intent of killing Lennon, but couldn't find him.

Lennon and Yoko returned from the studio at around 10:50 p.m., with their limousine dropping them off in front of the building on 72nd Street, rather than pulling into the building's courtyard as usual. As the couple walked in, they passed Chapman who called out "Mr. Lennon?" and fired five shots from a .38 caliber handgun into Lennon's neck and back. Officers were quick on the scene, arresting Chapman and rushing Lennon in a squad car to nearby Roosevelt Hospital, where doctors worked on reviving the musician, who died from the severity of his wounds.

Dr. Stephan Lynn, the director of Roosevelt Hospital's emergency room, recalled Lennon's injures to the New York Post, saying that, "We made an incision in the left chest and separated the ribs and found a very large amount of blood. We looked for an injury to the heart or to the blood vessels. But what we discovered was that all of the major blood vessels leaving the heart were simply destroyed. There was no way that we could repair them."

The news of Lennon's death was broken by a reporter for New York's ABC-TV, who by coincidence was in the same emergency room after a motorcycle accident. The news was first reported by Howard Cosell during the Monday Night Football telecast.

Yoko returned home and called "the three people John would have wanted to know" -- his aunt Mimi Smith, who raised him; his 17-year-old son Julian, from his first marriage; and Paul McCartney. Within hours of the news, thousands of fans had flocked to the Dakota to stand vigil for Lennon.

Julian Lennon and Ringo Starr made immediate plans to head to New York, with George Harrison issuing a statement saying, "After all we went through, I had and still have great love and respect for him. I am shocked and stunned. To rob life is the ultimate robbery." McCartney also issued a statement, saying, "I can't take it at the moment. John was a great man who'll be remembered for his great contributions to art, music and peace. He is going to be missed by the whole world."

There was no funeral for Lennon, who was cremated almost immediately. Instead, tens of thousands of mourners gathered in New York's Central Park the following Sunday (December 14th) to observe ten minutes of silence at 2 p.m. The event was broadcast globally, with many radio stations ceasing all airplay during the memorial.

THE AFTERMATH

"(Just Like) Starting Over" went on to top the charts for five weeks, with the following singles "Woman" and "Watching The Wheels" hitting the Top Ten in the coming months. Double Fantasy went on to win the 1981 Grammy Award for Best Album.

Both Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr contributed to George Harrison's 1981 Lennon tribute "All Those Years Ago," which hit Number Two in the spring of 1981.

McCartney's solo tribute to Lennon, called "Here Today," appeared on his 1982 album Tug Of War, and has been a part of McCartney's live set since 2002.

In early 1981, Chapman pleaded guilty to second degree murder, and is currently serving a 25-years-to-life sentence in New York's Attica State prison. Chapman, a devout born-again Christian who is allowed conjugal visits, has refused all offers of psychotherapy since the murder. He has been turned down for parole four times.

Yoko has kept Lennon's legacy alive by consistently issuing previously unreleased recordings and videos along with reproductions of his artwork as lithographs, mugs, tee-shirts, baby clothes, and other items -- to the chagrin of some Lennon fans.

Nearly 30 years after Lennon's death, he now has had more posthumous releases than he had solo albums by 1980.

In 1995, with Yoko's blessing, McCartney, Harrison and Starr teamed up to complete two of Lennon's unreleased demos -- "Free As A Bird" and "Real Love" -- for The Beatles Anthology project.

On October 9th 2007, which would have been Lennon's 67th birthday, Ringo Starr and George Harrison's widow Olivia Harrison joined Yoko and Sean Lennon in Iceland for the official lighting of the John Lennon Imagine Peace Tower. The event, which took place on Videy Island off Reykjavik, was kicked off by Ringo and Yoko lighting up the beaming light sculpture "with the broad shaft of blue light" as about 200 people gathered to sing Lennon's 1971 peace anthem "Imagine."

Running through January 3rd at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Annex in New York City is John Lennon: The New York Years exhibit. The exhibit focuses on Lennon's solo work -- including his New York-based albums Some Time In New York City, Mind Games, Walls And Bridges and Double Fantasy. Key items of Lennon's "Big Apple" wardrobe -- including his legendary Army shirt, his sleeveless "New York City" t-shirt, his "Dr. Winston O'Boogie" feathered hat and his one-of-a-kind diamond encrusted "Elvis" brooch are all on display.

Among the highlights of the exhibit are handwritten lyrics and notes for Double Fantasy, his official Green Card which Lennon earned after a four-year battle to stay in the country, his bedroom piano from his Dakota apartment, and his Fender Telecaster which used to perform at Madison Square Garden with Elton John in 1974.

As is the custom every year, several hundred fans are expected to stand vigil for Lennon today across the street from the Dakota building in Central Park's Strawberry Fields. The triangular patch of land was designated by the city of New York in 1984 to celebrate the former Beatle's life and work.

FAMILY, FRIENDS, AND FANS REMEMBER JOHN LENNON

Yoko Ono says she's holding off on issuing any major Lennon projects until 2010, which will be the 30th anniversary of Lennon's death: "For John's 25th, we did a lot. Well, let's put it this way, I really put my soul into doing that 25th stuff, everything, you know? So the next I'm thinking of is 30th. For the 30th anniversary of John's anniversary, I will do something big."

Yoko says that she thinks Lennon would've embraced most of the artistic and cultural changes that came into place after his death: "Internet, Website -- all that would have driven him crazy, but also he would have said, 'I told you so. It was gonna be a global village, and this is it!' You know, that kind of thing. But also, I think he might have gone to rap music -- you know, the first white rapper kind of thing -- because he was a real, you know, real rocker -- and a funky one at that."

Julian Lennon says that the fact that he never truly became close with his father still weighs heavily on his mind: "We saw each other on and off. . . I saw him, probably, maybe 10 times before he was killed, you know? And I think it would have been nice to find some resolve between us eventually, but unfortunately that was never going to be, y'know? So, there will always be that unresolved point in my life, whether I like it or not. Yes, there is forgiveness, but there is still bitterness, and still anger there as well. But, it's not something I think about on a day-to-day basis."

Lennon's first wife Cynthia Lennon says that during her decade-long relationship with Lennon, she tried desperately to provide a stable home for him after dealing with a childhood during which both his parents abandoned him: "That's all you can do. You can only give him what he needed. What more can you do? You can't change the man's psyche, his nature, his history, his past, his pain."

Cynthia says she was thrilled when she heard he was coming out of retirement in 1980 to begin making music again: "He was writing. He started to write again which was fantastic, you know, Double Fantasy. I thought 'Thank God, he's coming back into the real world.'"

She added that she still feels Lennon's presence in her daily life and pays tribute to his memory every year: "The essence of the man is still within my psyche -- even though he's not here anymore. And I have a son, who is not the image of his father, but I always joke about the fact that he's me for five days of the week and his father at the weekends. But every time there is an anniversary of John's birthday or his death, Julian and I raise a glass to him.'

During a Today show interview in 1997, McCartney said he looks back on his partnership with Lennon with great affection: "We had a great collaboration. I mean, I don't think there's any doubt about that. Certainly from my point of view, John was like a great person to work with. He must've thought I was a great person to work with 'cause we stuck together for all that time. We'd grown up together."

Pattie Boyd met Lennon in 1964 on the set of A Hard Days Night, and throughout her years married to George Harrison, she spent more time with Lennon then she did with her own family: "I adored John. I thought he was tremendous fun to be with. He was exciting -- but also sometimes he'd make me quite nervous because he was very witty, very sharp. He wouldn't let anything go. He was very observant."

James Taylor, who was originally signed to the Beatles' Apple Records, and maintained a relationship with Lennon up to the time of his death, feels that Lennon's murder was inevitable: "I was in the building uptown from the Dakota in New York City -- a building called the Langham -- the night that John was shot. I heard the shots. I couldn't believe it. I have always thought that there was something almost inevitable about it. I often have the feeling that -- I'm not sure exactly where this comes from -- that too much exposure, or too much celebrity, too much of a sort of public profile, is toxic and dangerous. In John Lennon's case, he was so well known, so universally known and loved, that I almost felt that it was statistically inevitable that someone was gonna... he was so accessible, you know?"

U2's Bono says that Lennon's artistic integrity was the blueprint for all that came after him: "Well, he wrote the book for us. You know, you're talking about Rubber Soul, other albums -- we've had, you know, The White Album in the back of our head. He's the one who was ready to take the pratfalls -- to make an idiot out of himself to make a point, if that's what it took to make a point -- to take the jeers and the sneers to sing his life. I think the courage to be uncool, in music and in art, is everything."

The Ronettes' Ronnie Spector, who was married to Lennon's record producer Phil Spector, said that the world will never get over the loss of Lennon's talent: "He was the nicest guy. And when I found out he was dead, I couldn't get out of bed for three days. I was stunned. Because he was heavy. Now here's a guy. . . Talking about writing -- there will never be another John Lennon."

Beatlefan magazine's executive editor Al Sussman says that the Beatles' 1967 Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club album was the first major example that the youth of the world were all in tune with each other: "In those days, records came out on Friday. So that weekend, everybody was listening to this album. The same thing happened when 'The White Album' came out (the year after). And you knew, that everybody, everybody, who were at all hip to what was musically relevant was listening to this. Oh yeah."

Fred Seaman, who was Lennon's assistant from early 1979 until his death, recalls that Double Fantasy was originally conceived as solo Lennon project: "In 1980, he started thinking about recording. And then the question was, what kind of record would this be? And originally John was going to do a solo record -- that was his idea. And he thought about it for a long time. He didn't think of it in terms of a 'comeback,' but in terms of an update on what he had been doing. And he had been writing songs throughout the '70s."

Dennis Ferrante, Lennon's main engineer during his New York years, was working a session for the Temptations that night when he first heard that Lennon had been shot. He immediately called Lennon's ex-girlfriend May Pang for confirmation: "So I went inside and I said, 'I don't believe it.' So I called May, and I got her on the phone, and I said 'Hello,' and she started screaming. And I said 'It's true?' And she was hysterical. I said 'Oh my God.' And I just dropped the phone, I turned around, I took my bag, and I walked out (of the session). I left everything on the machine, I left the lights on, the mics up, I just walked out. I didn't even say goodbye. I was totally destroyed."

Ferrante, who worked closely with Lennon throughout the '70s on such classic albums as Imagine, Some Time In New York City, Mind Games, Walls And Bridges, and Rock 'N' Roll says that Lennon's death absolutely leveled him: "I cried all night. And I just couldn't get over it, it was like they shot my father, or my mother, or my brother. And I was so distraught, I didn't go back to work for almost a week. I stayed home. And it's funny because nobody called. 'Cause they knew that I had worked with him."

ERIC CLAPTON AND ROGER DALTREY ANNOUNCE JOINT TOUR…Eric Clapton and Roger Daltrey will team up for an 11-date U.S. mini tour kicking off on February 25th at Pittsburgh's Mellon Arena and wrapping on March 13th at Orlando's Amway Arena, according to thewho.com. Daltrey will be opening the shows with Clapton and his band following.

Eric Clapton/Roger Daltrey tour dates (subject to change):
February 25 - Pittsburgh, PA - Mellon Arena
February 27 - Nashville, TN - Sommett Center
February 28 - Birmingham, AL - Birmingham Jefferson
March 2 - Tulsa, OK - BOK
March 3 - Kansas City, MO - Sprint Center
March 5 - Memphis, TN - FedEx Forum
March 6 - New Orleans, LA - New Orleans Arena
March 8 - Raleigh, NC - RBC Center
March 9 - Atlanta, GA - Gwinnett Center
March 11 - Ft. Lauderdale, FL - Bank Atlantic Center
March 13 - Orlando, FL - Amway Arena

Daltrey says that it only takes a brief amount of warm-up to get himself and his band in shape for the road: "Who songs I don't really need to rehearse. I mean, we haven't got dancers and backing singers, y'know, loads of miming to deal with, so we don't really need that long. Musicians, good musicians can learn songs quite quickly. I don't like to over-rehearse, 'cause I find if you over-rehearse, things stop growing on the stage."

Clapton has released more live albums than most of his contemporaries, and has always put more thought into his setlists than most other '60s and '70s acts. It comes as no surprise that he's actually cool with the occasional bootlegged gig leaking out to fans: "In the past, as a kid, you were always going to clubs and recording people -- not to sell, but that's bootlegging in its way. So therefore, my attitude actually has often been, if I've seen someone in the audience with a mic, and it's a good performance, I kinda think, 'Well, I'm glad someone's got this on tape, because it's a really good night,' you know? And at least someone's gonna be able to share that."

SCOTT WEILAND AUCTIONS OFF PERSONAL ITEMS…Stone Temple Pilots frontman Scott Weiland is auctioning off a number of personal items and memorabilia, according to Blabbermouth.net. One hundred percent of the proceeds will go through Weiland's ArchAngel Organization to the widow and two children of Weiland's brother, Michael Weiland, who passed away unexpectedly in 2007 after a long struggle with drug addiction.

Scott said, "The overall idea is to grow this into something more, while still helping my brother's family, and to also reach out and help families who are or have recently been through the same painful and seemingly hopeless situation. For now however, this is what we can and what we are able to do. Have fun with it and know that the profits are going to help my sister in-law and my nieces Sophie and Claudette."

Items up for auction include a signed guitar, along with clothes that Weiland has worn onstage, at awards shows and at various other public engagements.

The auction began on Monday (December 7th) at the website of the label that Weiland co-owns, SoftDrive Records, and will last for two weeks.

Stone Temple Pilots is currently completing work on its first new album since 2001.

In other news, Weiland has released a new rendition of the holiday classic "Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas," which can be heard at AOL Radio or purchased through iTunes. Weiland first performed the song in 2006 on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno.

TODAY MARKS FIVE-YEAR ANNIVERSARY OF DIMEBAG DARRELL'S DEATH…Today (Tuesday, December 8th) marks the five-year anniversary of the death of Pantera and Damageplan guitarist "Dimebag" Darrell Abbott. Abbott, one of the most beloved and respected musicians in hard rock, was shot onstage during a Damageplan concert at the Alrosa Villa club in Columbus, Ohio by a 25-year-old ex-Marine named Nathan Gale. Gale murdered a total of four people and wounded three others before being killed himself by police officer James D. Niggemeyer, who arrived on the scene minutes after Gale began his rampage.

Gale seemed to deliberately target Abbott, leading to speculation that the young man, who had a history of mental illness, held a grudge against Abbott and his brother, drummer Vinnie Paul, for the break-up of Pantera in 2002. Columbus police closed their investigation in October of 2005 without establishing a motive for the shootings.

Abbott and Paul formed Pantera in the mid-Eighties in Texas. The band recorded four independent albums before their 1990 major label debut, Cowboys From Hell, introduced a heavier sound and made them a favorite with metal fans. 1994's Far Beyond Driven debuted at Number One on the Billboard Top 200 without benefit of a commercial hit single.

The group splintered in 2002 following the departure of volatile lead singer Philip Anselmo. Dime and Vinnie, as they were known to their fans, regrouped with Damageplan, releasing the band's debut album, New Found Power, in February of 2004. The group was touring in support of the record at the time of the shootings.

Abbott's death was a devastating blow to the close-knit hard rock and metal community. He was known to his fellow musicians for his hospitality, friendship and partying spirit, and was a legend among fans and peers for his powerful, innovative and unmistakable playing style.

Several of Dime's final projects, including a country-metal album called Rebel Meets Rebel and a DVD titled Dimevision -- Vol. 1: That's The Fun I Have, were issued in the years following his death by Big Vin Records, a label started by Vinnie Paul. Paul told us a while back that activities continue to keep Abbott's memory alive: "It's very important to me to make sure that Dime's legacy lives on forever, and I think without anybody even tryin', it will, you know. But I just want to make sure that the things that are still here that he was part of, can increase that and just be one more thing that lends credence to his legend, you know."

"DIME" AND VINNIE ON "DIME" AND VINNIE

Vinnie Paul told us in early 2004, before Dime's death, that he had the utmost respect for his brother as a musician. "I tell people all the time, he's the most talented person I ever met in my life. Not just 'cause he's my brother, but it's just, that's how I feel about it. On this Damageplan thing, Dime gets out there and rips a solo every night and I can't believe how much of a rush it is just still to hear him get up and play and then hear the crowd start chanting 'Dimebag' and all that. It's a good time, man."

Dime also spoke about his relationship with his brother: "Our brotherhood is a true brotherhood and we both have the same goal. You know, it wasn't like in somebody else's family - 'Well, Johnny got a A-plus this week, you got a C-minus, up yours,' you know. It was never a competition kind of thing with us, you know, we both had the same goal. And we're like best friends more so than brothers, you know."

Dime and Vinnie Paul were known as two of the hardest-partying rockers around, and Dime told us that their motto was "everyone is welcome": "You know, we don't judge people for what kind of music they play or what kind of people they are or what kind of haircut they got, or anything. We're just into hangin' and cuttin' up, you know, and there's always gonna be a nut to find in somebody, you know. And hey, if they're ever wantin' to hang and have a good time, we're open to it, man, any time, and we're gonna have a good f***in' time and they don't forget it."

OTHER MUSICIANS ON "DIMEBAG":

Slipknot lead singer Corey Taylor: "Every time I hung out with Dime, dude, it was just laughing. I just remember laughing my ass off, 'cause he was just one of the funniest guys, you know. And he was just one of the best dudes, man, and probably one of the best guitar players I've ever seen. Not only live, but just everything, you know. He just made it look f***in' effortless."

Judas Priest front man Rob Halford on Abbott's legacy: "His music will live forever, and that's the wonderful thing about what we do as recorded musicians -- our music will be around a lot longer than we will. So we have his music to cherish, and he still will be an inspiration to guitar players, as he was with Pantera and with Damageplan. So, you know, we'll miss him dearly."

Vinnie Paul eventually joined a new band called Hellyeah with members of Mudvayne. The album was recorded in the Dallas studio co-owned by Paul and Dime. Mudvayne and Hellyeah singer Chad Gray told us that it was a strange experience to work there: "It was bizarre. It really bothered me to kind of be there because, you know, there's a lot of greatness that happened in that room but there's a lot of pain that goes along with that. And you see it in Vin, like, going in there the first couple of times, it was hard for him. One night I think we were just kind of standing outside and I'm like, you know, there was just parts of me that kind of wished I wasn't there, because the only way that I wouldn't have been there is if Dime was still around."

A slew of new content has been posted at the official Pantera website in honor of Dime's memory, with more to come.

Musicians from various bands that have toured with or have been influenced by Pantera will contribute their stories about the group and Dimebag to the site.

YES ANNOUNCES NORTH AMERICAN DATES FOR FEBRUARY…Yes has announced a string of February dates kicking off on February 4th in Concord, New Hampshire and running through February 28th in Boca Raton, Florida. The band, who is currently on tour in Europe, includes Chris Squire, Steve Howe, Alan White, and keyboardist Oliver Wakeman -- the son of legendary Yes keyboardist Rick Wakeman. Fronting the band is temporary lead vocalist Benoit David who's still filling in for Jon Anderson, who's been suffering from respiratory failure due to chronic asthma.

Chris Squire says that the lineup shift inspired him to push Yes into incorporating new music into their recent setlists: "One of the things that I wanted to do on this tour, as well -- as there was going to be a difference in our whole presentation -- was to do some new material. And Steve Howe is also playing some new instrumental pieces. He does his solos which are new for him to present. And yes, so I had this song called 'Aliens Are Only Us From The Future,' and it's now become part of 'The Fish' section of the show."

Yes tour dates (subject to change):
February 4 - Concord, NH - Capitol Center For The Arts
February 5 - Jim Thorpe, PA - Penn's Peak
February 6 - Washington, DC - Warner Theatre
February 10 - Montclair, NJ - Wellmont Theatre
February 12 - Atlantic City, NJ - Tropicana Casino & Resort
February 13, 14 - New York, NY - Town Hall
February 17 - Cleveland, OH - House Of Blues
February 18 - Chicago, IL - House Of Blues
February 20 - Detroit, MI - Sound Board at Motor City Casino
February 23 - Dallas, TX - House Of Blues
February 24 - Houston, TX - House Of Blues
February 25 - New Orleans, LA - House Of Blues
February 27 - Orlando, FL - SeaWorld Orlando Adventure Park
February 28 - Boca Raton, FL - Sunset Cove Amphitheatre

ROGER HODGSON SAYS SUPERTRAMP REUNION SEEMS UNLIKELY…Rodger Hodgson, the voice of most of Supertramp's greatest hits, says that unfortunately he doesn't think he'll be joining up with the band anytime soon. Hodgson, who left the band in 1983, wrote such Supertramp classics as "The Logical Song," "Take The Long Way Home," Give A Little Bit," "It's Raining Again," and "Breakfast In America."

Hodgson told undercover.com.au that he and cofounder Rick Davies, who heads up the band, have broached the subject of reuniting: "We've looked at it and talked it over. I have looked at it many times. It is hard to reinvent us. I would never say never but Rick has pretty much retired right now and I'm in the prime of my life. The reaction I am getting from fans is 'please don't reunite.' I think a lot of the magic and spirit that people think they would see at a Supertramp reunion they are actually getting at my shows now. I feel the reunion I am having is with my audience and it feels really good".

He told us that after all is said and done, he remains open to anything the future might hold: "I'm never gonna say 'never.' I mean, I'm very much into healing relationships, even one as challenging as mine and Rick's. And I really think that the things standing in our way are small in comparison to what I hear about most bands. I mean, I love Rick. We're like chalk and cheese, very different to one another. But I really learned a lot from him, and I realize the legacy of music that we've left together is pretty incredible."

In 2006 Hodgson released his Take The Long Way Home DVD, which was filmed live in concert in Montreal, Quebec on June 6th of that year.

That’s it for now, as always, if you can’t be good, be good at it and don’t get caught!!

Jonathan

Monday - December 7, 2009 -

noreply@blogger.com (Jonathan Knight) — Sun, 06 Dec 2009 23:07:00 +0000

ON THIS DAY

Madame Tussaud was born on this date back in 1761. She of course, is famous for her wax museum. I went there once. It was amazing. The candles looked so real.

On this day in 1835, the very first railroad in Germany opened, for those of you keeping tracks.

In 1842, The New York Philharmonic gives its first performance. Afterwards, the conductor was reported to have said, "An audience! That's what we forgot!"

At dawn on Sunday, December 7, 1941, six Japanese carriers launched a first wave of 181 planes composed of torpedo bombers, dive bombers, horizontal bombers and fighters against Pearl Harbor, on the Hawaiian island of Oahu. Here's a look back at that terrible day, which spurred the U.S. to enter World War II:

· The attack wasn't just on Pearl Harbor, but included other military installations on the island. Huge losses were also suffered at Hickam, Wheeler and Bellows airfields, Ewa Marine Corps Air Station, Kaneoshe Bay Naval Air Station and Schofield Barracks.

· The attack by 183 Japanese planes began at 8:02 a.m., as most people were waking up for what they thought was a quiet Sunday.

· Less than two hours later, 2,280 American servicemen and 68 civilians were dead, and 1,109 were wounded.

· Eight battleships were damaged and five were sunk, while three light cruisers, three destroyers, three smaller vessels and 188 aircrafts were lost.

· The USS Arizona went down only nine minutes after being hit by a 1,760-pound bomb. Killed in the horrendous explosion were 1,177 crewmen.

· Things could have been even worse, if not for a goof by Japanese strategists. Their main targets were the U.S. fleet's aircraft carriers -- most of which were out of port that day.

Pearl Harbor Movie Trivia

· What was the first movie about Pearl Harbor? ("Secret Agent Of Japan, 1942)

· How many movies about Pearl Harbor were made in 1942? (Five: "Secret Agent Of Japan," "Little Tokyo, USA." "Across The Pacific," "Remember Pearl Harbor" and "Submarine Raider")

· Why was the movie "December 7, 1941" first released in a 30 minute version, cut down from the original 84 minute version? (Because of its critique of the military's lack of preparation -- Edited by the military before the 1943 release)

· What 1943 movie about Pearl Harbor was re-released in 1991? (December 7, 1941." The movie has original clips of the actual attack. The full version was re-released in 1991)

· What was the first Japanese movie about Pearl Harbor? ("I Bombed Pearl Harbor" released in 1961)

In 1961 June Carter and Johnny Cash appeared in concert together for the first time in Dallas. Years later, concert goers said it was remarkable how much they looked like Joaquin Phoenix and Reese Witherspoon. On this date in 1973, the world banana-eating record was set at 17 in two minutes. Sadly, three people were injured by the peels while trying to walk past him.

The trademark for Marshmallow Peeps was registered on this day in 1982. This idea fits right in with our long-running hatred of Peeps. We did "Float Or Flush" where we floated a pink one and a blue one, assigned each one to a listener and got them to predict whether they'd survive flushing. Neither did. Taking it to the next level, we had a web cam in the can and did it live on the Internet too!

On this date in 1984, South African President Tutu met with our President Reagan. Reagan's first question: so, where's your ballet outfit?

TODAY IS

Aaron Carter turns 22 today. Everyone got to know him a little better on "Dancing with the Stars" until he was voted off.

Terrell Owens celebrates his 36th birthday today, for those of you who have him in your birthday pools. By the way, the fact you're even involved in a birthday pool is a sign of a serious problem.

Edd Hall turns 51 today. Remember? For a short while, he was Jay Leno's announcer on "The Tonight Show." He was hoping to be the next Ed McMahon, but turned out to be more like the next Ed Begley, Jr.

Basketball's Larry Bird turns 53 today. I still don't know how he made that shot in the McDonald's commercial.

THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW

· The critics aren't being too kind about Meg Ryan's new movie, "Serious Moonlight."

· They say Matt Lauer, Barbara Walters, Larry King and Oprah have already reached out to Tiger Woods for that first interview.

· Jenny McCarthy's 7-year-old son is trying some acting.

· One of the rumored new faces on "Good Morning, America?"
· George Stephanopoulos.

· Playboy magazine reports only one in four Oklahoma public high school students can name the first president of the United States.

· One of the tabloids says that Elin and Tiger's pre-nupt is being rewritten so that if Elin stays with Tiger for 7 more years and signs a nondisclosure form preventing her from ever telling her story, she'll collect $80 million.

· Johnny Depp is on the cover of Entertainment Weekly's "Best of the Decade" issue.

· The Rolling Stones' Ronnie Woods was arrested on suspicion of domestic assault. He's 62... cocktail waitress girlfriend is 20.

· Hang in there, "Flash Forward" fans. The show is going to be on hiatus until March.

· Miley Cyrus now has a fresh new tattoo, under her left breast.

· Judy Reyes, who plays Carla on "Scrubs," gave birth to a baby girl last week.

TOP FIVE SIGNS YOUR SECRET SANTA DOESN'T LIKE YOU

1. That package on your desk... is ticking.
2. Today's gift: a rabid pit bull
3. Here's the box for a pet tarantula. I wonder where the spider is...
4. I wonder if that's a poisonous snake
5. Gave you "The 10 things I hate about you" -- not the movie, a list!

HUNTER'S HUMOR by Tim Hunter

Police in Texas have seized a batch of Ecstasy pills shaped like President Obama. They also found some Melatonin tablets that looked like Joe Biden.

Well, when it comes to the 12 days of Christmas for Tiger Woods, we now know at least who three of the days were with.

A new study ranked the people in Minneapolis as the smartest people in the U.S. Obviously, driving to the middle of a frozen lake in the dead of winter, sawing a hole in the ice and fishing is a sign of high intelligence.

The latest job numbers have our country's unemployment down to just 10%. That's like, "We burned the pizza, but only on the bottom."

Good news about the national Christmas tree. The 40-foot Colorado Blue Spruce is decorated with highly-efficient, energy efficient lights. Wow, just think of how much good we could do for the environment if we cut down100 more trees and used those lights!

Not mine, but going around: Ping just offered Elin Woods an endorsement contract for her own set of drivers. Their motto: "Clubs you can beat Tiger with."

On to ROCK NEWS -

RECORD EXEC SUGGESTS AEROSMITH HIRE LENNY KRAVITZ TO SING…The current issue of Rolling Stone magazine features an in-depth look at the rift between Aerosmith singer Steven Tyler and the rest of the band, including interviews with guitarists Joe Perry and Brad Whitford, plus drummer Joey Kramer, in which they speak openly about their relationship with Tyler and their plans for the group's future. The most surprising comment, however, may come from former Geffen Records executive John Kalodner, who oversaw Aerosmith's late Eighties comeback and some of their biggest albums, such as Permanent Vacation and Pump.

When asked who could possibly take over as lead singer in the band, Kalodner says, "I was talking to Marty Frederickson about this because he co-wrote 'Jaded' and worked with them for ten years or so. We were talking about how no one can replace Steven Tyler, but the only person he said -- and I agreed with -- that could even make Aerosmith anything would be Lenny Kravitz."

But, Kalodner added, "If you're asking me, is there Aerosmith without Steven Tyler, my answer is no. And if Steven Tyler goes solo my answer is no."

Nevertheless, the rest of Aerosmith have publicly announced their intentions to look for a new singer while Tyler takes his proposed two-year break to work on "Brand Tyler." Whitford told us that the band is open to taking a new direction: "You're never gonna fill the shoes of Steven Tyler. Not even possible. So we're not even thinking in terms of filling his shoes. But there may be some people willing to try, and hopefully we do something creative with it, you know, and not just go out there and be like an Aerosmith cover band, you know what I mean?"

Tyler has been estranged from the band since August, when he fell from a stage in South Dakota and forced the group to cancel the rest of its summer tour.

The other members have revealed that Tyler has his own management, and that none of them have had any contact with him in months. Whitford and Kramer have hinted that they think Tyler might be using drugs again.

The Rolling Stone article also hints at musical differences between Tyler, who prefers to record radio-friendly pop hits, and the rest of the band, who want to get back to their harder-rocking roots.

Joe Perry is touring with his own band, The Joe Perry Project, and will perform on CBS-TV's Late Show With David Letterman on Friday, December 11th.

RON WOOD ARRESTED ON SUSPICION OF ASSAULTING GIRLFRIEND…Ron Wood was arrested early yesterday morning (December 3rd) by British police on suspicion of assaulting his 20-year-old lover Ekertarina Ivanova. A spokesperson for Wood told Rolling Stone, "I can confirm that there was an incident last night and that Ronnie Wood was arrested. He has since been released on police bail. We have no further statement to make at this time."

A Surrey police spokesman said of the arrest: "We can confirm that a 62-year-old man from Esher was arrested last night on suspicion of assault in connection with a domestic incident in Claygate High Street. He has this afternoon been released on bail until a date in January pending further inquiries."

Wood's divorce from his wife Jo of 24 years will be finalized within the next few weeks. Jo filed suit after Wood left her and his family for Ivanova.

The couple's last skirmish took place on September 14th after they had thrown a lengthy party at their rented London home. At about 2:40 a.m. the couple began fighting in to the street with Ivanova reportedly screaming, "I'm going to kill myself. You are going to find me dead!"

Wood reportedly threw Ivanova's clothes out of the window and onto the street. The fight was allegedly due to Wood planning a cordial dinner with estranged wife Jo, to which Ivanova was not invited to.

ALAN PARSONS PROJECT LEAD SINGER DEAD AT 64…Alan Parsons Project lead singer and songwriter Eric Woolfson died of cancer on Wednesday (December 2nd) at age 64, according to The Associated Press. Woolfson is best remembered for singing lead on the group's hits "Eye In The Sky" and "Don't Answer Me." Woolfson went on to produce and write musicals, with his latest, Edgar Allan Poe, currently running in Berlin.

PAUL McCARTNEY SAYS HE'S DOING ALL HE CAN TO FIGHT GLOBAL WARMING…Paul McCartney addressed the European Parliament in Brussels yesterday (December 3rd) and touted his "Meat Free Monday" campaign, according to The Associated Press. McCartney met with Rajendra K. Pachauri, the head of the U.N.'s global climate change panel, and spoke how the production of food is responsible for 20 to 30 percent of greenhouse emissions -- with livestock accounting for half of the emissions.

McCartney told reporters, "I grew up as a kid not eating meat on Fridays. It was part of the rules of the school I went to." He added that with global warming still an active concern there now is an "even more crucial reason" to skip eating meat.

He added that apart from flying to and from his European gigs by plane, he's doing everything he can to prevent global warming: "They haven't invented microphones that work on candle power. I do everything I can. If I go for a car, I go for hybrid. I recycle."

McCartney's opening night show in Hamburg on December 2nd featured the debut of his new song "(I Want To) Go Home" from the new Robert DeNiro-Drew Barrymore movie Everybody's Fine as well as his first performance of the Beatles' "And I Love Her" since 1991 -- along with the live debut of the "Fab Four's" 1968 classic "Ob-La-Di, Ob-La-Da."

McCartney's European mini-tour hits the Netherlands on December 9th.

BRYAN ADAMS TALKS STORY BEHIND 'OLD DOGS' TRACK…Bryan Adams has a song in the new feature film, Old Dogs, starring John Travolta, Robin Williams and Kelly Preston. The Canadian singer wrote the track, "You've Been A Friend To Me" especially for Old Dogs -- a movie that centers around two friends who find their lives turned upside down they suddenly have to take care of 7-year-old twins. Adams submitted his song a while back hoping that it would be a part of the film, but tells us things were delayed after the tragic death of Travolta and Preston's son, Jett, earlier this year: "It was quite to fun to get involved in that film. After I presented the song I sort of read through the idea of what the film was about and spoken to Disney and sort of got the brief on what they wanted. After presenting the song, it all went quiet for a while. It didn't really occur to me until they explained to me that everything got put on hold because of John and the sad death of his son, you know. I kind of sat there for a while and said, 'I guess they don't really like it.' And then suddenly I got a call from the head of music and the director, saying, 'Hey, we love this man.'"

Adams will be on an acoustic tour in 2010.

BONO: 'I'M A RICH ROCK STAR, SO SHOOT ME'…U2 frontman Bono knows he makes a good living, and he's not being shy about it. This week, he's been out promoting his new (RED) project with Nike dubbed "Lace Up Save Lives" to help fight AIDS and HIV. And when asked by London's Daily Mail if people would be sympathetic to a campaign headed up by a multi-millionaire, Bono reportedly said, "You can still contribute even if you are not as fortunate as I am." He added, "I've been blessed and I've been over-rewarded for what I do, and I'm trying to give my time and my resources but you know, I'm a rich rockstar, so shoot me." Bono, who's often in the press talking about the causes he supports, said, "I'm having a great life and even though I can be a pain in the a** going on about all this stuff, the band feel strongly about it too."

Some charities have criticized U2 for moving its business from Ireland to the Netherlands, which has no tax on royalties. Oxfam, among other groups, argue its taking away revenue from U2's native Ireland. Bono said he doesn't mind the criticism as long as the critics are also backing his cause, saying, "I think it's OK to criticize me as long as the ones who are doing so are doing their bit."

That’s it for now, as always, if you can’t be good, be good at it and don’t get caught!!

Jonathan

Wednesday - December 2, 2009 -

noreply@blogger.com (Jonathan Knight) — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 17:39:00 +0000

ON THIS DAY

Charles Dickens gave the first reading of his mostly sold-out 5-month long American tour way, way back in 1867

On this date in 1784, that George Washington nicknamed New York "the Empire State"... by spray-painting it on a subway wall.

In 1927, the very first Model A Ford was sold for $385. The owner was a Model A citizen. Or, these days, that'll get you the floor mats.

On this date in 1952, a human birth was televised for the very first time in Denver, Colorado. It inspired the catch-phrase, "You did this to me!" Or, instead of cutting the cord, the doctor cut the cable.

TODAY IS

Britney Spears turns 28 today. Go figure. Oops, she did it again.

Sarah Silverman celebrates her 39th birthday today. I'm pretty sure there won't be a Jimmy Kimmel anywhere close.

Former Secretary of State Alexander Haig turns 85. Ironically, he's no longer in control.

Business of Popping Corn Day -- And why not? Popcorn eaters make better lovers, a recent study shows. They're three times more romantic at the movies than those who don't eat popcorn. And they're three times more likely to cry, according a study by Screenvisioons Cinema Promotions.

THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW

Serena Williams was fined a record $82,500 for her outburst at this year's U.S. Open.

A 38-year-old former Miss Argentina has died, after complications following cosmetic surgery on her butt.

ABC has a new show on the way next year, called "Thin Ice." It will feature ice skaters competing for prizes. The hosts will be Elisabeth Hasselbeck and Kurt Browning, four-time world champion Canadian figure skater.

Gary Busey has been named the "Most Unsexiest Man Alive in Hollywood."

I hear the rescheduled date for "A Charlie Brown Christmas" is December 15th.

According to Playboy, an average NFL Football game has only 12 minutes of actual play time.

Chris Judd -- J Lo's 2nd ex -- has remarried.

There's a new children's book that's coming out that features Sarah Palin as the hero.

Hulk Hogan isn't even officially divorced yet, but he's already saying that the gal he's with now is the marrying type.

Sheryl Crow, Celtic Women and Jordin Sparks will all be on hand Thursday night for the lighting of the national Christmas tree in Washington, DC.

Chelsea Clinton is engaged! He's a long-time boyfriend that she met while attending Stanford. Wedding next summer.

The actual cost of the 12 days of Christmas is only up 1.8% since last year. If you're writing a check, that would be a total of $21,465.56.

Conversation Starters –

Syndicated columnists Marilyn Beck and Stacy Jenel Smith asked readers to submitted candidates for this year's Tacky Taste Awards. Here's the top ten:

1. Jon & Kate Gosselin
2. Joe Jackson
3. Kanye West
4. Dethroned Miss California Carrie Prejean
5. David Letterman
6. Miley Cyrus and her daddy, Billy Ray
7. Levi Johnston (father of Sarah Palin's grandson)
8. Roman Polanski Defenders
9. Perez Hilton
10. Michael Lohan

- If you don't like tomatoes, well, just eat slower and you'll stay leaner. Researchers have discovered that eating too fast limits the release of two hormones that bring on the feeling of being full, which can lead to overeating. "Most of us have heard that eating fast can lead to food over consumption and obesity," said Dr. Alexander Kokkinos, who headed the research at Laiko General Hospital in Athens, Greece. "The warning we were given as children that 'wolfing down your food will make you fat' may, in fact, have a physiological explanation." (National Enquirer)

- Scientists say holding hands with a loved one or even just looking at their photo can take away pain. Psychologists at the University of California, Los Angeles, found that women who were given mild burns felt less hurt if they were comforted by someone they cared about. But holding hands with a stranger made no difference. The findings show that a kiss or cuddle can make all the difference. (Globe)

WEIRD NEWS

Cavemen Become Billionaires! - To modern day cavemen have just become billionaires! Brothers Zslot and Geza Peladi are so poor they literally live in a cave outside Budapest, Hungary, and sell scrap they find on the street for pennies. However, they, along with a sister who lives in America, are to inherit their grandmother's massive fortune of four Billion dollars! Homeless charity workers in Hungary were contacted by lawyers handling the estate of the brothers' maternal grandmother who died recently. 43-year-old Geza said, "We knew our mother came from a wealthy family but she was a difficult person and severed ties with them, and then later abandoned us and we lost touch with her and our father until she eventually died." Under German law, direct descendents are automatically entitled to a share of any estate. Now the brothers are obtaining copies of their mother's death certificate and proof of their family connection before travelling to Germany to claim their inheritance. (Ananova)

Truly Higher Education! - Talk about higher education-- a new college has been set up in Detroit to teach students how to grow, use and profit from marijuana! The Med Grow Cannabis College runs six-week courses on producing the drug for medicinal use. Tuition is only $600 bucks and the course covers the horticultural skills required to grow the plants, as well as recipes for cooking and the legal pitfalls and loopholes. It was founded by 24-year-old Nick Tennant who said, "This state needs jobs, and we think medical marijuana can stimulate the state economy with hundreds of jobs and millions of dollars." The 2008 Michigan Medical Marijuana Act made growing marijuana for medicinal purposes legal in that state. (Ananova)

GPS Locators For Kids on World's Biggest Cruise Ship! - The Oasis of the Seas is the largest cruise liner in the world. Run by the Royal Caribbean Cruise Line, she can carry up to 6,300 passengers and weighs more than 225,000 tons. Of course with 16 decks it can be easy to lose your kids if you're onboard. So they're trying out a new GPS system for parents of 3 to 11-year-olds. An electronic chip built into the wristbands that all children on the ship must wear, enables parents to locate their offspring wherever they are. If it proves successful the new system will be introduced on other ships in the Royal Caribbean fleet. (Ananova)

Former Miss Argentina's Vanity Kills Her! - 38-year-old former Miss Argentina Solange Magnano has sadly succumbed to her own vanity. The mother of twins, who won the crown in 1994, died of a pulmonary embolism after three days in critical condition following a gluteoplasty -- or plastic butt surgery-- in Buenos Aires. Close friend Roberto Piazza said the procedure involved injections and the liquid "went to her lungs and brain." He also said it was very said that "a woman who had everything lost her life to have a slightly firmer behind." (Ananova)

Bank Job Take Two? - What's the old saying -- if at first you don't succeed? In Philadelphia, police and the FBI are looking for a man who successfully robbed a bank less than two hours after a failed robbery attempt at another bank. The suspect entered a Sovereign Bank branch in South Philadelphia Monday morning and told an employee he had a gun and demanded cash. But he ran off before getting any money. About two hours later, the same man entered a Wachovia Bank branch, tried it again, and this time made off with an undisclosed amount of cash. (myway.com)

Just Plain Crazy! - In Crestview, Florida, 48-year-old Donald Leon May entered an empty residence without permission and proceeded to take a shower. According to police reports, he entered the home through an unlocked back door. While in the shower, a boy--who thought his father was home-- entered the bathroom and suddenly realized that wasn't dad! May told the boy that President Obama let him in, and told the boy to leave. The boy went to a neighbor's house to call the police. Police found May still in the house with nothing on but a towel wrapped around his waist. When questioned by police, May said, "The Yellow Brick Road brought him to Crestview." So he was promptly arrested. (AHN News)

High Pressure Saleswoman! - We know the car industry is suffering right now but this is ridiculous. In Clive, Iowa, 77-year-old Audrey McKnight is suing Holmes Hyundai claiming a saleswoman pressured her into buying a new car while she was waiting for an oil change. Ms. McKnight claims she was adamant she couldn't afford a new car but finally gave up after being pressured for hours. Dealership owner Max Holmes disputes those claims and says his lawyers will respond in court. McKnight made her claim under a new state consumer fraud law that makes such suits easier to file. (The Des Moines Register)

TOP FIVE SIGNS SANTA'S GETTING A BIT FORGETFUL

1. Keeps asking Mrs. Claus, "What day do I go to work again?"
2. Accidentally sat on an elf again
3. Locked his keys in the sleigh for the third time
4. Is it me or does Santa's pipe smell funny?
5. Can't recall the most famous reindeer of all

HUNTER'S HUMOR by Tim Hunter

President Obama's address to the nation Tuesday night apparently bumped ABC's showing of the "Charlie Brown Christmas Special." It feels like Lucy was holding the time slot and then, at the last minute, pulled it away.

The H1N1 virus has been found in a flock of turkeys up in Canada. Of course, U.S. turkeys are saying, "Why didn't we think of that sooner?"

Notre Dame has fired another head coach. They're going to have to change their team name soon to "the firing Irish."

GORSEFEATHERS by Patrick Gorse

Forward Alex Ovechkin of the National Hockey League's Washington Capitals has been suspended two games for delivering unnecessarily rough hits at the boards. Okay... so Ovechkin is being disciplined for overcheckin'. That makes sense!

Katie Holmes says she doesn't care what her critics say and that she will continue to dress her three-year-old daughter Suri in high heels. In a related story, Tom Cruise says he doesn't care what his critics say, and he'll continue to wear high heels, fish net stockings, frilly panties and six-inch lifts.

Actor Alec Baldwin swears he's quitting show business after his "30 Rock" contract expires. Yeah, Alec! You also swore you'd move to Canada if George Bush was re-elected in 2004. Fool me once, shame on you...fool me twice...you can't get fooled again!

Some people are wondering if Nike will pull their endorsement contract from Tiger Woods. Actually, I think Nike may be to blame for the whole Tiger problem in the first place. When you're thinking of cheating on your wife, and your shirt says "Just Do It," that's a pretty powerful suggestion.

On to ROCK NEWS –

PAUL McCARTNEY SELLS OUT LONDON GIG IN FOUR SECONDS…As insane as it may seem, Paul McCartney's December 22nd London show at the O2 Arena sold out in only four seconds. McCartney, who kicks off his year-closing European dates tonight (December 2nd) in Hamburg, is also amazed, telling bbc.co.uk, "I was doing an interview with some guy and he said, 'I heard you sold out in four seconds.' I said, 'No. That's four minutes, are you kidding?'"

He admitted that he feels more comfortable taking the stage knowing that there is such a high demand for tickets: "Now the motivation is that I know they want to come really badly because my promoter will say, 'You've sold out.' I actually don't feel like I have to chew myself up because it's a built-in factor now. I think, 'I love playing to them, and they're going to actually like hearing me, so what can I do so that we can have fun?' It's more of a mutual motivation now."

Among the highlights of McCartney's recent shows is his rendition of "Here Today" -- his 1982 tribute to John Lennon sung as an "open letter" to his late partner: "The one I think that has emerged as the one that they're reacting to the most is a little known song that I wrote after John died, called 'Here Today.' So it's kind of cool, they hear it for the first time, a lot of them, and it's quite poignant. Y'know, I tell 'em that it's for John. It's quite emotional -- but in a good way. It's just a sort of reaffirmation of how much we loved him and still do."

TOM PETTY RECALLS HIS ABUSIVE FATHER…Tom Petty opened up to Rolling Stone about his difficult relationship with his father growing up. Petty was asked about how tough his childhood was, and he explained, "I had a wonderful mother. She was a very kind, good person. My father was Jerry Lee Lewis if he didn't play the piano. He was scary and violent. He beat the living hell out of me, and there was constant verbal abuse. Looking back on it, he probably was disappointed that I was so drawn to the arts. He probably thought I was gay. I wasn't interested in sports. I didn't know the names of any baseball players. I liked films and books and records."

Petty added: "He liked to fish and hunt. He'd drag me on these trips, and it was a nightmare. Shooting something repelled me. My younger brother became a football player right away, he didn't want the same s***."

Out now is the Heartbreakers' new four-CD 48 track collection called The Live Anthology. Petty says that that Heartbreakers' career is far from over: "We want to keep this thing fresh, and we really believe in this music--this rock 'n' roll music -- that we're playing. And we want to keep it fresh and contemporary, you know, and avoid any sort of routine to it."

LIVE CALLS IT QUITS…Nineties rock band Live seems to have officially called it quits after two decades. The band has been on a hiatus, but guitarist Chad Taylor broke the latest news this week in a blog entry titled "Not the ending I wished for." In it, he explains how he and bandmates Chad Gracey and Patrick Dahlheimer's relationship with frontman Ed Kowalczyk "had grown cold." Taylor wrote that he recently found out that Kowalczyk had secretly -- but legally-- signed a contract to change control of the band's publishing company and catalogue from a majority vote to just his own control in 2005. Taylor notes how he doesn't want to even be in the same room as Kowalczyk, explaining: "Ed was able to stab his three best friends from middle school in the back. This act was far down the line from typical rock star ego. As you can imagine I am deeply hurt and wounded."

Taylor wraps up his blog post with: "Ed will no longer be the vocalist for the band LIVE. At this point in time, we have made no official plans to replace him but it is clear that he is no friend of mine or the lifelong fans of LIVE." Taylor says he looks forward to performing with his band, the Gracious Few, adding, "I look forward to seeing many LIVE fans in the audience at our shows. Patrick, Chad and I have made a pledge to honor our long shared history with the fans of LIVE. You will always be graciously welcome in our house."

Live had hits with "Lightning Crashes" and "I Alone."

The members of Live first formed in the late 1980s while in middle school. Earlier this year, the group announced it would be taking a two-year hiatus.

Kowalczyk is set to perform at a special benefit concert this month in Biloxi, Mississippi, along with 3 Doors Down and Aaron Lewis of Staind. In his latest blog, posted this week, Kowalczyk writes: "Hello all! Hope all the Americans had a wonderful thanksgiving and that everyone else at least had a piece of pie. lol See the attached picture for the kind of pie-love that was going on in the Kowalczyk house. yum! Been spending lots of high quality time at the homestead which has been really great."

BLACK CROWES, BON JOVI AND DAVE MATTHEWS BAND TO PLAY HULLABALOUFEST…Black Crowes, Bon Jovi and Dave Matthews Band are among the acts set to play the first-ever Hullabalou music festival in 2010. The three-day event, set to take place July 23rd-25th will be held at Churchill Downs, the Louisville, Kentucky racetrack that's home to the Kentucky Derby. Also slated to perform are Kenny Chesney, Zac Brown Band, Al Green, Doobie Brothers, Loretta Lynn, Dwight Yoakam, Gladys Knight, the B-52s, the O'Jays, Colbie Caillat, Richard Marx, Gov't Mule, Kansas and Taj Mahal. More than 65 acts are expected to perform across five different stages. The venue can hold up to 160,000 people.

Tickets go on sale this Friday (December 4th) via Ticketmaster and at Hullabaloufest.com.

BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN CALLS HIS '50s A 'FRUITFUL TIME'…Bruce Springsteen took time out to reflect on the end of his and the E Street Band's two-year road trek which spanned his recent albums Magic and Working On A Dream.

Springsteen told Billboard that the past decade has proved incredibly important for him as a bandleader and a songwriter, explaining, "We were talking about it the other day and we said, 'I don't know if we've been this busy since 1985, or ever.' It's just the way things worked out. Some of those things we planned, and some of them just happened. I've been prolific with my songwriting, so I've been able to just get more music out there, which is something I always wanted to do. I found my 50's to be very, very fruitful. The songs came -- I don't want to say easily, but they came in a continuous flow. I had a lot of things I wanted to write about, so it allowed us to record quite a bit, and then back it up with the touring."

He went on to say that he was pretty comfortable hitting the road for such a long stretch of time: "I can't say I experience it as a grind. Of course you're flying in, you're flying out and you're driving, but I really like the people that I do this with. I like being with them on stage and off, I enjoy the time we spend traveling together, and I enjoy the work that we do. And I feel privileged to have the audience I have and to be able to do what we're doing at the level we're doing it right now. If you're a sports figure, you're prime passes at such a young age. There's no ceiling here. I believe if you come and see us now you're seeing the best E Street Band that's ever played."

Springsteen, who turned 60 in September, says that the continuation of the E Street Band is among his greatest accomplishments: "The main thing that I'm proud of is just the band at this point in time. Y'know, we stayed together, we stayed alive -- that's hard to do (laughs) for people in our business. And also, imagine you're working alongside the same people you were with in high school, for 40 years or so, and keeping that together."

Springsteen is expected to release both a DVD chronicling the 2009 dates, as well as completing the long-awaited Darkness On The Edge Of Town box set. No release date other than 2010 has been mentioned for either project.

That’s it for now, as always, if you can’t be good, be good at it and don’t get caught!!

Jonathan

Tuesday - December 1, 2009 -

noreply@blogger.com (Jonathan Knight) — Tue, 01 Dec 2009 16:31:00 +0000

ON THIS DAY

The great Indian warrior "Crazy Horse" was born on this date in 1842. Why the name "Crazy Horse"? His mom, "Constant Nag" never told him.

On this date in 1903, the first payment to a Christmas Club account was paid. Needless to say, that was a pretty cheap-gift Christmas. The following year was much better. (Or, of course, by Christmas, the customer had only saved $1. And, of course, it was also on Christmas he realized the stores were all closed. It was probably for the best.)

The very first gas station in the United States opened up its pumps on this date back in 1913. It was in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and gas sold for 3 cents a gallon. That doesn't even cover the tax these days.

On this date in 1929, Bingo was invented. I wonder what the dog's name was before that?

In 1939, Rudolph, the red-nosed reindeer made his first appearance in a Montgomery Ward catalog. They weren't the best pictures and all of the other reindeer laughed and called him names. Of course, he's had some work done over the years. For example, his nose is now an LED light.

TODAY IS

Charlene Tilton, who played the young siren Lucy in the old TV series, "Dallas," turns 51. Now when that siren goes off, nobody pulls over.

Bette Midler turns 64 today. She's still got a lot left in her, not that we were worried that she would run out.

Woody Allen hits birthday #74. Relatives, lock up your daughters! (He plans to spend a quiet birthday with just his wife and his daughter... and the kids they had together.)

THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW

Hopefully, the fourth time will be the charm for Tom Arnold. He was married last weekend in Maui.

David Hasselhoff is back home after being hospitalized for two days for something his agent won't discuss. We have our guesses.

Meanwhile, the ex-Mrs. Hasselhoff, Pamela Bach, was arrested on suspicion of DUI Saturday night.

In 2007, 63% of college students said they would move back in with their parents after graduation until they found work. This year 69 percent of college students said they would move back.

Reese Witherspoon and Jake Gyllenhaal have split. Unless you believe their reps, who insist they are still together.

Chelsea Clinton is engaged to be married to her longtime boyfriend, investment banker Marc Mezvinsky.

Chris Brown will go into details on "20/20" December 11th.

That little 5-year-old North Carolina girl that was kidnapped and killed:

basketball's Shaquille O'Neal is picking up the tab for the funeral.

Saturday Night Live is going to do three live December shows: Blake Lively will host with musical guest Rihanna on December 5, Taylor Lautner and Bon Jovi on December 12th and James Franco as host with musical guest Muse on December 19.

THINGS THAT MAKE YOU GO HMM…..

- Feeling cranky? Well, here's some news to cheer you up. A new study says that being grouchy boosts your brain. Scientists in Australia have found that ill tempered folks tend to concentrate more on what's going on around them, and are more questioning of others giving them better memories and sharper minds. In comparison, happy people are more likely to take mental shortcuts and be gullible, resulting in less brainpower. (Globe)

- Men, if you marry a woman who is well-educated, you'll boost your chances of living a long life. The higher a woman's education, the better the chance both she and her partner will have a long life, according to research from the Swedish Institute for Social Research in Stockholm, Sweden. Oddly, the level of a wife's education was a stronger factor in lowering her husband's risk of dying over the next 10 years than the man's own level of education.

- With the decade ending this month, who is the hottest big screen actress of the 2000s? Here's what Playboy magazine readers said:

1. Megan Fox
2. Scarlett Johansson
3. Catherine Zeta-Jones
4. Naomi Watts
5. Charlize Theron
6. Halle Berry
7. Keira Knightley
8. Natalie Portman
9. Cameron Diaz
10.Angelina Jolie
11. Jennifer Aniston

WEIRD NEWS

Organization Wants To Ban Santa Claus! - A group in Austria wants to ban Santa Claus and calls the jolly old elf a foreign invader who is destroying the traditional Christian message of Christmas. They say modern day Santa is an invention of Coca Cola and synonymous with gaudy commercialism. They want Santa ditched in favor of the more traditional Christkind, or "Christ-child", a tiny blond baby who brings a candle-lit tree and gifts to children before dinner on Christmas Eve, heralded by the tinkling of a bell. Not sure if it'll matter to retailers but the Pro-Christkind group will withhold its seal of approval and boycott any shops displaying reindeer, sleighs or any of Santa's associates. Christoph Tschaikner, the leader of the group was joined by a whopping 100 supporters at a rally in Graz. Given that Austria's population is over 8,300,000, that's .00001% of the population. Not exactly a ringing endorsement by the public. And by the way, the group did finally drop their "No-Santa" logo -- Santa inside a circle with a line through it-- after it stirred up too much outrage. (Telegraph UK)

When Just Ramming Your Truck Into Your Ex's House Isn't Enough! - Sometimes you're so angry that just ramming your truck into your ex's house doesn't make enough of a statement. So next time you find yourself in that situation, remember what one woman in Jersey County, Illinois did. Just before ramming her truck into her ex's house, she LIT THE TRUCK ON FIRE! Fortunately nobody in the house was injured, but not surprisingly the house itself was damaged extensively. Jersey County Sheriff Mark Kallal says the woman and the homeowner "had a relationship that was on the outs." The burning truck first set the front porch on fire and then the flames spread to a couch that was near a front window and then to the rest of the house. Amazingly, a relative of the homeowner rescued the woman from the burning truck. She was treated at a hospital. Police have not released her names of the woman or the victim yet. (STL Today)

Not Our Brightest Idea - Officials at the HMP Kirkham prison in Lancashire, England admit it wasn't the best thought out plan. Prisoners who were willing to volunteer to help make Christmas lunch for elderly people at a local day center were given the opportunity to purchase a raffle ticket for $2 bucks. And the grand prize of the raffle -- getting out of jail for one day! The head warden of the prison claims he was unaware of the prize. Prison officials say the promotion was designed to encourage good behavior. But the get-out-of-jail-free card has since been withdrawn as a prize. (Digital Spy)

Who Knew? Bowling: Bad For Your Health! - The Health and Safety Commission of Great Britain have spent -- or should we say wasted-- $500,000 on a two-year study that has determined that bowling alleys are "a very dangerous environment for families." Yup, the so-called safety experts concluded that it was too easy for children or teenagers to run down lanes and get trapped in machinery that sets up the pins-- even though there has not been even one reported case of this ever happening. The bizarre Health and Safety Executive report also said that bowlers would be at risk if they walked along the 60-foot lanes to knock over pins by hand -- even though there has not been even one reported case of this ever happening. The commission considered ordering every bowling alley in England to put barriers across the lanes but they were forced to admit defeat after realizing that bowlers must be able to see what they are aiming at. John Ashbridge, of The Ten-Pin Bowling Proprietors Association, said he had watched HSE inspectors examining a bowling alley and found their attempts to detect possible dangers "hilarious." The $500,000 study was initiated after a bowling technician was accidentally crushed by the machinery he was working on two years ago. (Daily Mail)

Crazy Guy Steals Bus Riders Teeth! - 32-year-old Elena Aronson of San Francisco lived a real-life horror movie while riding a city bus to work. The man sitting next to her kept gazing at her teeth and told her, "Your teeth are so beautiful, like the moon and the stars." It got weird when he later said, "I want them!" Aronson, who grew up riding buses on the South Side of Chicago and later in New York, had never encountered anything quite like this before so she decided to make a quick exit. The next thing she remembered was being on her knees outside the bus, bleeding profusely from her torn lip - with her two upper front teeth missing. Police took a report, but it was weeks before her memory returned. Even now, she doesn't remember the man following her off the bus or being hit. And no witnesses came forward to tell police about it. As a result, police aren't sure exactly what happened. A police sketch artist helped her come up with what she considers a dead-on image of the man who liked her teeth. Police are looking for him now. (San Francisco Chronicle)

Ironing With Jesus - In Methuen, New Hampshire, 44-year-old Mary Jo Coady was having a tough time. She had separated from her husband and her hours had been cut at work. Then she walked into her daughter's bedroom and noticed a familiar image on the bottom of an iron sitting on the floor. It was the face of Jesus. Mary Jo says, "I see his eyes, his nose, his whole face and I was like, 'That's Jesus looking at us.'" In fact, the image is only a rust-colored stain, but it does kind of look like Jesus. Mary Jo says, "It just gave me a sign that life is going to be good. I think he's listening." She also hopes her story will lift other people's spirits in time for the holidays. Other famous Jesus sightings include a South Carolina woman who made headlines in April by finding an image that looked like Jesus on a piece of cheese toast. A couple in Ohio claimed to have found Jesus on a pancake in 2006, and a Milwaukee woman claimed to have found him on a tree in her yard in 2002. As for the iron in the Coady home, don't expect to see it on eBay anytime soon. Mary Jo says she'll buy a new iron and just keep this one in her closet. (Eagle Tribune)

Talk About a Nail Biter! - In Jacksonville, Florida, Ashley Saks left Roxy, her 2-year-old Basset Hound, with a friend last week while she went out of town. She gave specific instructions to lock Roxy up if her friend had to leave because the dog hated being alone. The friend, however, making a run to a hardware store, took the dog with her and allowed her to roam about the store. Shortly afterwards, the dog got very, very sick. So they took Roxy to the Vet and were astonished and amazed by the X-rays showing the pooch had eaten about 130 nails! Through surgery, the vet was able to retrieve all the nails and Roxy will miraculously be fine. Luckily, the nails did not puncture any of her internal organs. (AHN News)

Getting Your Health Care Priorities Straight! - One thing you have to say about Philadelphia-area transit workers -- they've got their health care priorities straight. Among the health-insurance upgrades demanded by the workers and agreed to by the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority, was removal of the 10-tablet-per-month rationing of Viagra and similar medications. Now workers can get as many as 30 Viagra pills per month. And that makes everybody happy. (Philadelphia Inquirer)

TOP FIVE SIGNS SANTA'S PUT ON A FEW TOO MANY POUNDS

1. Three of the reindeer being treated for hernias
2. Elves organizing a "Lap around Santa" run
3. If he wears green, constantly mistaken for Vermont
4. Problem at the mall -- no lap to sit in!
5. His missing car keys -- under stomach roll #2

HUNTER'S HUMOR by Tim Hunter

Tiger Woods says his wife "acted courageously" after he drove his car into a fire hydrant, then a tree. Hey, YOU tell the woman holding the golf club she's not courageous!

Tiger Woods actually drove his car into a fire hydrant and then a tree over the holiday weekend. You may be saying, "Isn't THAT par for the course?" but actually, it's one under.

Like any good golfer, Tiger blamed everything on the driver he was using.

Tiger's a smart guy. He wanted the TV networks to leave him alone, so who does he hire to be his spokesperson? Adam Lambert!

A new study suggests that too much exercise during middle age can increase your chances of having arthritis. When I get there, remind me.

The website TMZ claims that California Governor Schwarzenegger owes back taxes from 2005 and 2006 totaling $80.000! I can hear the Goobinator now: "I owe back... ... taxes."

TOP FIVE SIGNS YOU'RE GETTING BEHIND IN YOUR HOLIDAYS

1. The Christmas lights that became President's Day Lights and then 4th of July lights and Halloween lights have almost repeated the cycle.
2. Who ever heard of a Christmas scarecrow?
3. Why is Cupid over the manger scene?
4. Did anyone really buy that was a Veteran's Day Bunny?
5. Merry Memorial Day?

On to ROCK NEWS –

THE DOOBIE BROTHERS TO PLAY MEMORIAL FOR STEVE MILLER BAND MEMBER…The Doobie Brothers have announced a series of winter and spring dates -- including the Celebration Of A Life -- A Tribute To Norton Buffalo concerts at Oakland's Fox Theatre. The memorial is for the Steve Miller Band's harmonica player who died of lung and brain cancer last month.

In addition to Miller and the Doobies, other acts set to perform include Bonnie Raitt, Huey Lewis, George Thorogood, Elvin Bishop, Charlie Musselwhite, and others.

Doobie Brothers tour dates (subject to change):

December 29 - Reno, NV - Silver Legacy Resort Casino
December 31 - Tempe, AZ - Tempe Town Lake
January 2 - Las Vegas, NV - Texas Station Gambling Hall & Hotel
January 22, 23 - Oakland, CA - Fox Theater (The Celebration Of A Life concerts)
March 19 - Thackerville, OK - Winstar World Casino
March 20 - Mayetta, KS - Prairie Band Casino & Resort
March 21 - Columbia, MO - Jesse Auditorium
March 25 - Mescalero, NM - Inn Of The Mountain Gods
April 23 - Atmore, AL - Wind Creek Casino
May 1 - Atlantic City, NJ - Caesars Circus Maximus Theatre

TOM PETTY LOOKED TO MICK JAGGER WHEN LEADING THE HEARTBREAKERS…Tom Petty says that he modeled how to be a bandleader on none other than Mick Jagger. Petty told Rolling Stone, "I always admired -- and felt for -- Mick Jagger. I've been to the (Rolling) Stones' rehearsals. You gotta run that band -- and he does, maybe to a fault. I wanted something that fell between the Beatles and the Stones, more of an organic music than the Beatles. But I thought Jagger was a great band leader, because the Stones always had a good show, and the material was well picked."

Petty was asked how he felt that after two years on the road touring with Bob Dylan, the Heartbreakers were poised to be the band most likely to back George Harrison on the road: "He knew that. But I said, 'You have to play lead guitar. People would be very disappointed if you didn't.' It just never happened. Thinking back on it, it should have. But I don't think any of us really tried to make it happen. When we did that tribute concert to him at the Royal Albert Hall (in 2002), I remember having a distinct feeling, near the end, that he was there. But it wasn't meant to be. It didn't go that way."

He was asked if the Traveling Wilburys viewed themselves a vanity project -- or as a real band: "Yeah. It could be our permanent gig. We certainly felt like we were a band, especially after we had a big hit. We were a band."

Guitarist Mike Campbell compiled the Heartbreakers' new four-CD 48 track collection called The Live Anthology. He says that for the most part, Petty set the stage for nearly all of the band's great live moments: "You'll find -- just ironically -- any time a vocal on a track is good, usually everybody steps up to it. It's rarer that there's a great vocal and no one played that well on that take. It seems to spur everybody on. We found that if the vocal was really good, that usually meant that Tom was in a good groove and the band was in sync with him. So usually the other stuff fell into place."

QUEEN RELEASE 'ABSOLUTE GREATEST' COLLECTION…Out now is the new 20-track Queen compilation, Absolute Greatest. The collection is available as a single CD version, a double disc "special edition" featuring audio commentaries by Brian May and Roger Taylor, a two-disc version with a 52-page hardcover book, an LP box set edition, as well as a digital download.

The tracklisting to Queen: Absolute Greatest is:
"We Will Rock You," "We Are The Champions," "Radio Ga Ga," "Another One Bites The Dust," "I Want It All," "Crazy Little Thing Called Love," "A Kind Of Magic," "Under Pressure," "One Vision," "You're My Best Friend," "Don't Stop Me Now," "Killer Queen," "These Are The Days Of Our Lives," "Who Wants To Live Forever," "Seven Seas Of Rhye," "Heaven For Everyone," "Somebody To Love," "I Want To Break Free," "The Show Must Go On," and "Bohemian Rhapsody."

We asked Brian May what he thinks Queen's legions of fans feel about his and Taylor's efforts to keep the band's legacy alive: "They probably see some genuine effort on our part and some probably (laughs) some genuine inspiration. Whatever else you might say about Queen, we were just totally dedicated to our audience."

ERIC CLAPTON & JEFF BECK ANNOUNCE NORTH AMERICAN DATES….Eric Clapton and Jeff Beck have announced three North American dates for February. Pollstar.com announced the duo will play on February 18th at New York City's Madison Square Garden, February 21st at Toronto's Air Canada Center, and February 22nd at Montreal's Bell Centre. Prior to the three dates, Clapton and Beck will play a two-night-stand on February 13th and 14th at London's O2 Arena. So far no additional North America shows have been announced.

Beck is eager to bring the show to the U.S. and Canadian fans: "Eric and I played together in Japan earlier this year and had a blast. Since then we have been in regular contact and talked about doing a similar show for our fans. Looking forward to the shows in 2010."

Clapton says that he's used to being referred to as a "Guitar God" -- although he admits he's not really sure he deserves that kind of recognition: "If it's true -- and I presume you think it is -- then I think it's a wonderful thing, and it's a great honor to be able to have that. It's a privilege, you know, that I'm very grateful for. I would never want to belittle that."

That’s it for now, as always, if you can’t be good, be good at it and don’t get caught!!

Jonathan

Monday - November 30, 2009 -

noreply@blogger.com (Jonathan Knight) — Mon, 30 Nov 2009 16:16:00 +0000

ON THIS DAY

Author Jonathan Swift was born on this date in 1667. He had success with the book, "Gulliver's Travels" and thanked all the little people who made it possible.

On this date in 1782, the American Revolutionary War ended... and the first series of Time-Life books was born.

Good day for authors: Samuel Clements, alias "Mark Twain," was born on this date in 1835. He kept writing one great book after the other: "Tom Sawyer," "Huckleberry Finn," "The Prince and the Pauper"... readers all across America couldn't wait to catch the next Twain.

On this date in 1804, the first U.S. Supreme Court justice to be impeached, Samuel Chase, goes on trial. He was acquitted. Wait a minute: THAT'S the guy who my bank is named after? Oh, I'm feeling better...

In 1949, Chinese communists captured Chungking... guaranteeing frozen food for everyone!

On this date in 1956, Floyd Patterson knocked out Archie Moore in the fifth round. So, Floyd had to buy his own drinks in the sixth round.

In 1981, the motion picture "Gandhi" premieres in New Delhi. The audience was told "thank you, come again"!

On this date in 1986, President Reagan called Oliver North "a national hero." However, the Contras in Nicaragua admired him most for his arms.

TODAY IS

Final day of November! Hang on!

Clay Aiken turns 31 today. So close to being an Idol, yet, so far.

Sandra Oh is celebrating a birthday today. Which one? Oh, 39. Bingo!

Billy Idol turns 54 today. Ironically, he was once chosen "American Aiken." Or, he's begun that long journey of going from white hair to gray.

It's Dick Clark's 80th birthday. Between his stroke and the death of his buddy, Ed McMahon, I've got nothing left to joke about... so Happy Birthday, Dick! Actually, I do know he started out in radio a long time ago... back when it was in black and white!

THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW

Nicole Richie is still in bed, recovering from a bout of pneumonia.

Katie "Cougar" Couric is dating a guy 17 years younger, for those keeping score.

Oprah is going to interview Ted Kennedy's widow, Vicki, on an upcoming show.

Donny Osmond did it! In doing so, became the oldest contestant (at age 51) to win "Dancing with the Stars."

The 9th season of "American Idol" will begin on January 12th.

"Monk" will wrap up 8 seasons with it's final episode on USA this Friday.

Demi Moore is all over YouTube, talking about being "Wanted"... which just so happens to be the name of her new perfume.

Air Force Capt. Tung Ngo (TUNG' noh) is especially grateful this Thanksgiving. He won a new car from "The Jay Leno Show" during Thursday's holiday program. Ngo won a 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid.

They're still insisting that an Eggo waffle shortage is around the corner. Stock up!

Al Alberts, a founding member of the singing group, The Four Aces, and a longtime TV talent show host in Philadelphia, has died. He was 87.

Dancing With the Stars judge Carrie Ann Inaba had surgery last week to relieve pressure and stiffness in her neck caused by spinal stenosis.

Things that make you go hmm.....

Loved ones who are planning funerals today are opting for rock music and electric guitar riffs, according to a poll conducted by a British funeral company called Funeralcare. The trend to choose popular tunes over classical music at funerals has been growing since the 1960s. So instead of "Abide With Me," the congregation will stand and join in a rousing version of AC/DC's "Highway to Hell."

The top five most popular songs played at funerals:

1. "My Way," by Frank Sinatra/Shirley Bassey
2. "Wind Beneath My Wings," by Bette Midler/Celine Dion
3. "Time to Say Goodbye," by Sarah Brightman/Andrea Bocelli
4. "Angels," by Robbie Williams
5. "Over the Rainbow," by Eva Cassidy

The top five most popular hymns played at funerals:

1. "The Lord Is My Shepherd"
2. "Abide With Me"
3. "All Things Bright and Beautiful"
4. "Old Rugged Cross"
5. "Amazing Grace"

WEIRD NEWS

Crash The President's Party -- Make a Fortune! - By now you've heard the story of Michaele and Tareq Salahi -- the infamous Virginia couple who crashed President Barack Obama's first state dinner. Michaele is a reality TV hopeful trying to get on Bravo's "The Real Housewives of D.C." Her and her husband's success in getting into the state dinner without an invitation embarrassed the White House and Secret Service. Well now they're trying to cash in on their stunt by asking broadcast networks for huge bucks for interviews -- in the mid-six-figures range. One network exec said that representatives for Michaele and Tareq contacted several networks to urge them to "get their bids in" for an interview. Meanwhile, CNN confirmed that the Salahis had canceled an unpaid appearance they had scheduled for "Larry King Live" on Monday. Network news divisions say they don't pay for interviews. A White House photo showed the Salahis in the receiving line in the Blue Room with Obama and Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, in whose honor the dinner was held. The Salahis lawyer, Paul Gardner, posted a comment on their Facebook page saying his clients were cleared by the White House to be at the dinner. (Sky News)

Attention Men: Your Dream Job Is Waiting! - There may not be a better dream job for the men out there. Leeds University in England is actually looking to employ a male to research -- wait for it -- LAPDANCING! No kidding! The guy who gets the job will have the tedious task of interviewing 300 erotic dancers and will be required to visit strip clubs. And for all this hard work, he will receive $47,000 salary! So what's the research for? Well Leeds wants to investigate the "rise and regulation of lap dancing and sexual labor". But hold on -- not just everyone can apply. The successful applicant will be required to have "prior experience of conducting research in the female sex industry". Hmmmm... I've visited a few strip clubs and talked to a few dancers. Sounds like experience to me! (AHN News)

Police Use Facebook to Bust Underage Drinkers! - Lookout Facebook users under the age of 21-- the police are checking your drinking habits according to your posts. It seems a college student in Wisconsin accepted a Facebook friend request from a cute girl he didn't know. Shortly thereafter, he got ticketed for underage drinking on the basis of a picture he'd posted of himself holding a beer–in his own home, no less. Granted, only a moron posts pictures of themselves on Facebook doing something illegal but it could happen to you. Worse -- some of the kids caught in the same Facebook sting were ticketed based on photos other people posted! And of course you should all know by now to never accept a friend request from somebody you don't know -- no matter how hot she is. (myway.com)

Never Accept A Collect Call! - Time was when making a collect call home was the only way to go. Well, times have changed and people don't really make collect calls anymore what with cell phones and cheap phone cards so readily available. Plus -- it now costs a fortune! In Los Angeles, hairstylist Barbara James gladly accepted a collect call from an 84-year-old customer who was calling from a pay phone because her cell phone had died to say she was running a bit late. Little did Barbara know that the two-minute phone call was going to cost her over $45 bucks! She got a bill from Network Communications International that showed a charge of $37 for the quick call, about $5 in regulatory fees and taxes, and $3 for a "billing cost recovery fee." NCIC president Bill Pope says the tiny number of collect calls these days makes the high prices inevitable. And FCC spokeswoman Rosemary Kimball says collect calls are largely unregulated since most major companies left the business. (Los Angeles Times)

A Thanksgiving To Remember! - Chances are no matter how great your Thanksgiving was, it didn't top the one Patricia McCalop had. The Boston grandmother was right in the middle of preparing the Turkey Day feast when her daughter suddenly went into labor two weeks early. And that baby was coming fast! Patricia called 911 and a dispatcher talked her through the delivery and helped her confirm that the baby girl was breathing. Paramedics arrived shortly afterward and took her daughter, Africa McCalop, and her newborn to the hospital. Both are doing just fine. The best part is that Patricia later said she kept running between the kitchen and helping her daughter deliver the baby because she didn't want the turkey to burn! The turkey came out fine too. (myway.com)

Let's Go See the New Homo Sapien Exhibit at the Zoo! - In an effort to stir up some business and publicity, the Warsaw Zoo in Poland has a new exhibit where two "Homo Sapiens" can be seen peering out from a cage! Yes, homo sapiens are humans and the two humans taking part in this exhibit are dressed in animal skins and trying to spark interest in man's caveman ancestors. Organizers say the weeklong "performance" also aims to attract interest in the play, "Caveman," showing in the Polish capital. Dressed in furs and animal skins, the young woman and man in the exhibit smoked a fish over a fire on the first day and stared from behind bars at startled zoo visitors. (myway.com)

Definitely Not Ready For Prime Time Crime! - 24-year-old Ralf Lautenback of Germany is admittedly the worst robber of all time. He surrendered to police after botching four robberies all in the same day. He tried holding up two hotels which but was chased off by security guards. Then he tried unsuccessfully to break in at the local tax office. Finally he attempted to ram a bank security cash van but got trapped in his car. One of the arresting officers said, "He needs a change of job." (Ananova)

South Korean Men Can Now Lie To You To Get Sex! - South Korea continues to claw its way out of the dark ages by finally throwing out a 56-year-old law that made it illegal for men to falsely promise marriage in return for sex. A court has ruled the law violated women's sexual freedom and that the government should not interfere in such matters. In the past, men who tricked their girlfriends into having sex could be looking at two years in prison or a fine of more than $3,000. Even more amazing, a court spokesperson said all men penalized under the law would now be acquitted and receive state compensation. (Ananova)

TOP FIVE LEAST POPULAR CHRISTMAS GIFTS

1. Swine Flu Chia Pet
2. DVD of Adam Lambert's performance on the American Music Awards
3. Joe Biden's autobiography, "My Story," volumes 1-20
4. Katie Couric sings Cole Porter
5. The Nintendo Wi game, "Accounting"

HUNTER'S HUMOR by Tim Hunter

President Obama pardoned a turkey on Wednesday as part of Thanksgiving tradition. I'm thinking one of these years, as a kind gesture, the president should pardon the Detroit Lions instead. Being led to slaughter, year after year...

Afterwards, the turkey hung out with members of congress... and, at one point, was seen comparing necks with Nancy Pelosi.

Adam Lambert is apologizing for all the crotch-grabbing and gay-kissing that went on... but his Aunt Erma says it was all way too much for Thanksgiving dinner.

Had a great Thanksgiving, except there was one weird thing. This nicely-dressed couple from Virginia just showed up, took photos and left.

On to ROCK NEWS -

BEATLES NEWS ROUNDUP…Seeing as how he pays tribute to John Lennon several times during his current live shows -- including singing Lennon's 1969 anthem "Give Peace A Chance" -- Paul McCartney was asked which solo song of his he would've liked to hear Lennon take a crack at. McCartney said, "I've never thought about it. 'Maybe I'm Amazed' comes into my mind. It would be interesting to hear him sing that. Just because it would. That will do."

When asked if he ever has to relearn his songs prior to hitting the road, McCartney said, "Constantly, yes. I've written so many. It's not like I've written five and I can remember them. Something like 'Day Tripper' is a real trip. I said I'd never even attempt it. You have to play the complicated bassline. Part of your brain has to go to your fingers and keep that going. Then another part of your mind has to think, 'You're the singer. Forget him playing that bass line'. But you get it after a few rehearsals. It's a difficult one. You feel like you are splitting yourself in half." (The Sun)

McCartney confirmed that he's considering finally appearing on the UK version of American Idol called The X Factor. McCartney explained, "It's something we are talking about. . . We're seeing if we can make it work. I've been watching on and off with my family. Sometimes it throws up someone brilliant like Leona Lewis. Other years have not been so good." (Digital Spy)

When McCartney kicks off his European dates on Wednesday (December 2nd) in Hamburg, he'll be adding his new song "(I Want To) Come Home" to the setlists. The ballad is featured in the new film Everybody's Fine, starring Robert DeNiro, Drew Barrymore, and Kate Beckinsale. Everybody's Fine, which deals with a father visiting his children over the holidays after they all cancel plans with him, opens on Thursday (December 3rd). (De Telegraaf)

McCartney hinted that there might be a possibility of performing a future show as his alter-ego the Fireman. McCartney, who's released three offbeat collaborations with producer Youth under the moniker said, "We might well have to do a special venue and say, 'We're only doing Fireman stuff tonight and nothing else!' -- and if people went for that then we'd have something." (The Quietus)

McCartney is continuing his "Meat Free Monday" campaign throughout Europe, and continues to urge fans worldwide to "go veggie" if only for one day each week: "Making just one day a week a meat-free day really is the little thing that can make a big difference. On December 3rd I will take this message to the heart of Europe, to a major international conference at the European Parliament. I will appeal to world leaders converging on Copenhagen for the climate change talks to remember that sustainable food policy is an essential weapon in the fight against global warming. Each should remember that eating less meat can stop global warming and help to feed the world."

McCartney went on to explain that global livestock production was responsible for around 18 percent of annual greenhouse gas emissions -- with that number possibly doubling in the next 40 years. (Press Association)

Julian Lennon says he's finally confronting his past and forgiving his neglectful father. Julian will release a new EP with collaborator James Scott Cook on December 15th which will feature his new single, "Lucy" -- written for the recently deceased Lucy Vodden, a childhood friend and the inspiration for the Beatles' "Lucy In The Sky With Diamonds." A portion of the proceeds will be donated to two charities focused on lupus, an autoimmune disease which took the life of Vodden and is currently afflicting Cook's grandmother -- also named Lucy. The EP will feature a reproduction of Julian's 1967 watercolor painting of Vodden which led John Lennon to write the 1967 Beatles classic.

Julian says that after years of carrying around the hurt of being abandoned by Lennon as a child, along with the emotions surrounding his father's murder when he was only 17, he's made peace with his past: "There's only so much bitterness and anger one can carry in life without it taking you to the grave. It was time for me to grow up in many respects. . . One has to reach a point of forgiveness -- and I'd done that, but I hadn't really taken it to heart for a long time. It's only in recent years and probably partially through the writing of this album."

Julian sixth album Everything Changes, and his first since 1998's Photograph Smile, will be released next year. (Spinner.com)

ROGER DALTREY WRAPS 'USE IT OR LOSE IT' SOLO TOUR TONIGHT…Roger Daltrey will wrap up his Use It Or Lose It solo tour tonight (November 30th) in Clearwater, Florida at Ruth Eckerd Hall. Daltrey kicked off the trek on October 10th in Vancouver with a five-piece band which featured Pete Townshend's youngest brother -- and longtime Who touring guitarist -- Simon Townshend. Daltrey launched the tour as a way to keep his voice in shape for next month's sessions for the new Who album, as well as their 2010 tour dates.

We asked Daltrey if with all the time off between Who projects, he's ever tempted to record a followup to his last solo album, 1992's Rocks In The Head: "No, not really. Y'know, I'm kind of always looking for songs that really inspire me, but I haven't . . . To be honest with you, a lot of the music I hear lately, I keep going backwards on music. I keep going back to the old stuff, and it always to me sounds fresher and better than the new stuff I hear."

Highlights on Daltrey's tour included renditions of such rarely-played Who songs as "Pictures Of Lily," "Tattoo," "Squeeze Box," "Young Man Blues," "The Real Me, "I Can See For Miles," "Naked Eye," "Blue, Red, And Grey," "Cache Cache," "Bargain," "Boris The Spider," and "Going Mobile" -- which was sung by Simon Townshend for the majority of the dates.

Pete Townshend is currently laying down tracks for the Who's 2010 studio album. The collection, which is the band's first since 2006's Endless Wire, will feature tracks that Townshend wrote for his upcoming multi-media musical called Floss. Daltrey will join Townshend in the studio in the next few weeks to begin laying down vocal demos.

The Who will headline CBS Sports' Bridgestone Super Bowl Halftime Show on February 7th at Dolphin Stadium in South Florida. The show will be among the biggest ever played by the band -- with last year's halftime show attracting over 151 million viewers in the U.S. alone, with more than 230 different countries airing the event.

BON JOVI BOOKS 'SNL' PERFORMANCE…Bon Jovi has booked an appearance on NBC's Saturday Night Live on December 12th when Twilight Saga: New Moon star Taylor Lautner will host. The appearance is just one of many the band has done to plug its new album The Circle and the single "We Weren't Born To Follow."

Bon Jovi has busy year ahead. The group kicks off a world tour in 2010 and also has a greatest hits coming out next year. Although specific details haven't been announced frontman Jon Bon Jovi says the collection will include a few new songs, along with the band's hits from recent years, including the 2000 single "It's My Life." Bon Jovi looks back on writing the lyrics for the song, which he says became anthem: "It had been a while since we had a band record. Almost four years. That was me at the time. And that was all it was. It was very self-indulgent. Unbeknownst to me, anyone -- everyone wants to think their in control of their life. And that song became an anthem for the every man or the athlete, or the kid that's rebelling against his folks. Who knew? But when it comes from that pure place, people then make it their own."

CHICKENFOOT'S SAMMY HAGAR EXPANDING HIS FOOD EMPIRE…Now that Chickenfoot drummer Chad Smith is back to work with the Red Hot Chili Peppers, frontman Sammy Hagar is keeping busy with his non-musical business empire. Hagar has opened a new restaurant, the Cabo Wabo Cantina, in Las Vegas at the Planet Hollywood resort and casino. Based on his original venue in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, the 15,000-square-foot Cantina offers Mexican food and margaritas in a rock 'n' roll-themed setting. Hagar himself will be on hand to host the Cantina's official grand opening on Friday (December 4th), which will include a performance by his band the Waboritas.

Hagar recently told us he is expanding beyond his Mexican-style cantinas with another type of eatery as well: "I got this thing called Sammy's Beach Bar and Grill in airports. I have one in Maui, I have one in Las Vegas, one in St. Louis. And the whole concept is to have a really cool beach bar. It's just fun to go in there and sit and enjoy a great drink and a great burger, instead of having junk food that they usually have in airports. But the best part is I give all my money, every penny, to charity in the area."

Hagar opened the original Cabo Wabo Cantina in Cabo San Lucas in 1990, spearheading the town's transformation into a tourist destination. He and musician friends often hang out and jam there. A second one opened in Lake Tahoe, Nevada in 2004.

He also launched his own successful brand of tequila called Cabo Wabo Tequila in 1999. Hagar sold the brand to Campari in 2007 for $80 million.

Chickenfoot, which also features Hagar's former Van Halen bandmate Michael Anthony on bass and Joe Satriani on guitar, issued its self-titled debut last June. The record was recently certified gold for sales of more than 500,000 copies.

LEGENDARY SINGER RONNIE JAMES DIO DIAGNOSED WITH STOMACH CANCER…Legendary heavy rock singer Ronnie James Dio has been diagnosed with stomach cancer, according to Blabbermouth.net. The news was announced by Dio's wife and manager Wendy, who said in a statement, "Ronnie has been diagnosed with the early stages of stomach cancer. We are starting treatment immediately at the Mayo Clinic. After he kills this dragon, Ronnie will be back on stage, where he belongs, doing what he loves best, performing for his fans. Long live rock and roll, long live Ronnie James Dio. Thanks to all the friends and fans, from all over the world that have sent well wishes. This has really helped to keep his spirit up."

The 67-year-old Dio is renowned throughout the world as one of the greatest and most influential vocalists in heavy metal, and has sang on classic albums by Rainbow, Black Sabbath and his own band, Dio.

Most recently, Dio has toured and recorded with Heaven & Hell, the Black Sabbath offshoot named after this lineup's 1980 album.

Heaven & Hell released a new studio album called The Devil You Know earlier this year.

The Dio band was about to begin a European tour when the singer was taken ill and diagnosed with cancer, forcing the cancellation of the trek.

That’s it for now, as always, if you can’t be good, be good at it and don’t get caught!!

Jonathan

Thursday - November 26, 2009 -

noreply@blogger.com (Jonathan Knight) — Thu, 26 Nov 2009 01:23:00 +0000

HAPPY TURKEY DAY!!!!

· Butterball turkey tip #117. When sticking a meat thermometer in the turkey, make sure it is first dead.

· (Turkey) How can anything that ugly cost so much?

· Surgeon General has announced that stuffing your turkey should not be considered as safe sex.

· If you want to know just how to pluck a turkey, just ask me about my last divorce.

· After Thanksgiving dinner. I took off my shoes, put my feet up and un-did my pants, which is when they asked me to leave (restaurant).

· Today on the program: "How to stuff a turkey without becoming emotionally involved."

· I was just about to kill my own Thanksgiving turkey when we got a last minute call from the governor.

· Thanksgiving is the time of year you hear all the turkeys learning to "meow."

· We always go to grandma's on Thanksgiving. She owns a McDonalds.

· Tough: It took me almost an hour, just to carve the gravy.

· A time for families to get together for the first time in years and ignore each other while they watch football.

· _____ never picks a Butterball, or a Holly Farms. Instead they always choose their favorite turkey, "Swanson."

· It's hard to describe my wife's turkey dressing. Just imagine Alpo laced with chestnuts.

· As far as leftovers. First day I love turkey, second day I like turkey, third day I tolerate turkey, fourth day, we clean it off the ceiling.

· My favorite food is the pumpkin pie. It's the greatest thing to put whip cream on, next to (sexy star).

· _____'s turkey dinner is famous. In fact, last year it was offered to inmates awaiting death row, who didn't like the electric chair.

THANKSGIVING MYTHS VS FACTS

Myth: The first Thanksgiving was in 1621 and the pilgrims celebrated it every year thereafter.

Fact: The first feast wasn't repeated, so it wasn't the beginning of a tradition. In fact, the colonists didn't even call the day Thanksgiving. To them, a thanksgiving was a religious holiday in which they would go to church and thank God for a specific event, such as the winning of a battle. On such a religious day, the types of recreational activities that the pilgrims and Wampanoag Indians participated in during the 1621 harvest feast -- dancing, singing secular songs, playing games -- wouldn't have been allowed. The feast was a secular celebration, so it never would have been considered a thanksgiving in the Pilgrims minds.

Myth: The original Thanksgiving feast took place on the fourth Thursday of November.

Fact: The original feast in 1621 occurred sometime between September 21 and November 11. Unlike our modern holiday, it was three days long. The event was based on English harvest festivals, which traditionally occurred around the 29th of September. President Franklin D. Roosevelt set the date for Thanksgiving to the fourth Thursday of November in 1939 (approved by Congress in 1941). Abraham Lincoln had previously designated it as the last Thursday in November, which may have correlated it with the November 21, 1621, anchoring of the Mayflower at Cape Cod.

Myth: The pilgrims wore only black and white clothing. They had buckles on their hats, garments, and shoes.

Fact: Buckles did not come into fashion until later in the seventeenth century and black and white were commonly worn only on Sunday and formal occasions. Women typically dressed in red, earthy green, brown, blue, violet, and gray, while men wore clothing in white, beige, black, earthy green, and brown.

Myth: The pilgrims brought furniture with them on the Mayflower.

Fact: The only furniture that the pilgrims brought on the Mayflower was chests and boxes. They constructed wooden furniture once they settled in Plymouth.

Myth: The Mayflower was headed for Virginia, but due to a navigational mistake it ended up in Cape Cod Massachusetts.

Fact: The Pilgrims were in fact planning to settle in Virginia, but not the modern-day state of Virginia. They were part of the Virginia Company, which had the rights to most of the eastern seaboard of the U.S. The pilgrims had intended to go to the Hudson River region in New York State, which would have been considered "Northern Virginia," but they landed in Cape Cod instead. Treacherous seas prevented them from venturing further south.

TOP 10 THINGS OVERHEARD AT THE FIRST THANKSGIVING

1. John Smith - boy, your parents must have some imagination.
2. Which one are you again, Pochohontas or Sachajawea?
3. What time are the Cowboys on today?
4. Whoa there, Jebediah. Is that your rifle or are you just happy to see me?
5. Columbus or DeSoto... I don't know, Regis, I think I'd like to smoke signal a friend.
6. Plymouth Rocks, but what time do the bars in Boston close?
7. Excuse me, but I have to make my next pilmgrimage to the men's room.
8. Wos! Now I know why they call you Miles.
9. What the hell was Kathie Lee Gifford doing on the Mayflower?
10. What's up with all the trees and natives? The brochures promised casinos and hookers.

USELESS THANKSGIVING TRIVIA

· When the Pilgrims were sailing to America in 1620, what game did they play? (Darts)

· Ben Franklin tried to get the turkey, named the national bird.

· Neil Armstrong's first meal on the moon was turkey.

· A turkey has about 3,500 feathers.

· What was one of the main reasons that the Pilgrims stopped at Plymouth Rock? (Because they ran out of beer)

· At the very first Pilgrim Thanksgiving in 1621 they feasted on deer meat, turkey and what else? Popcorn brought by the Indians

· How much vitamin turkey feed is necessary to raise a 30 lb turkey? (84 lbs.)

· Running speed of wild turkeys? (25 mph)

· Turkey meat gobbled up last year by the average American? (18.1 pounds)

· The first settlers weren't called Pilgrims. Instead, they referred to themselves as Saints.

· They didn't wear big hats with buckles either! That was invented by artists.

· The first Thanksgiving was no solemn religious occasion. It was instead a 3-day party that included drinking, gambling and target shooting.

· It didn't take place in November but sometime between late September and mid-October.

· There's no evidence they celebrated Thanksgiving the following year.

FEELING GUILTY?

If all you do is pig out and watch football, don't feel guilty. You are doing yourself some good. Here's the rundown:

· Stuffing a turkey, burns 54 calories.
· Baking a pie, burns 120 calories.
· Eating the feast, burns 70 calories.
· Watching the football game, burns 144 calories.

WHY DID THE TURKEY CROSS THE ROAD?

Question: Why did the turkey cross the road?

Pat Buchanan: To steal a job from a decent, hard-working American.

Louis Farrakhan: The road, you will see, represents the black man. The turkey crossed the "black man" in order to trample him and keep him down.

Bill Gates: I have just released the new Turkey 2001, which will both cross roads and balance your checkbook, though when it divides 3 by 2 it gets 1.4999999999.

Freud: The fact that you thought that the turkey crossed the road reveals your underlying sexual insecurity.

Los Angeles Police Department: Give me ten minutes with the turkey and I'll find out.

Richard M. Nixon: The turkey did not cross the road. I repeat, the turkey did not cross the road.
Dr. Seuss: Did the turkey cross the road? Did he cross it with a toad? Yes! The turkey crossed the road, but why it crossed it, I've not been told!

Martin Luther King, Jr.: I envision a world where all turkeys will be free to cross roads without having their motives called into question.

Mulder: It was a government conspiracy.

Scully: It was a simple bio-mechanical reflex that is commonly found in turkeys.

Darwin: Turkeys, over great periods of time, have been naturally selected in such a way that they are now genetically dispositioned to cross roads.

Darwin #2: It was the logical next step after coming down from the trees.

Oliver Stone: The question is not "Why did the turkey cross the road?" but is rather "Who was crossing the road at the same time whom we overlooked in our haste to observe the turkey crossing?"

Jerry Seinfeld: Why does anyone cross a road? I mean, why doesn't anyone ever think to ask, "What the heck was this turkey doing walking around all over the place anyway?"

The Pope: That is only for God to know.

Ernest Hemingway: To die. In the rain.

O.J.: It didn't. I was playing golf with it at the time.

HOW TO COOK A TURKEY WHEN THE IN-LAWS ARE COMING

· Step 1: Go buy a turkey
· Step 2: Take a drink of whiskey, scotch or JD to calm your nerves
· Step 3: Put the turkey in the oven
· Step 4: Take another 2 drinks of whiskey
· Step 5: Set the degree to 375 ovens
· Step 6: Take a couple more swigs
· Step 7: Turn oven the on
· Step 8: Tip the bottle some more
· Step 9: Turk the bastey
· Step 10: Whiskey another bottle get
· Step 11: Stick a turkey in the thermometer
· Step 12: Glass yourself a pour of whiskey
· Step 13: Bake the whiskey for 4 hours
· Step 14: Take the oven out of the turkey
· Step 15: Take the oven out of the turkey
· Step 16: Floor the turkey up off the pick
· Step 17: Turk the carvey
· Step 18: Get yourself another scottle of botch
· Step 19: Tet the sable and pour yourself a glass of turkey
· Step 20: Bless the saying, pass and eat out

On to ROCK NEWS -

TOM PETTY & THE HEARTBREAKERS RELEASE CAREER-SPANNING 'LIVE ANTHOLOGY'…Out now is Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers' four-CD 48 track collection called The Live Anthology. The box set covers live Heartbreakers material from 1978 to 2007 and features unadulterated tapes from the Petty's archive, with "no fixes or overdubs." Highlights on the set included such Petty classics as "Even The Losers," "Refugee" "Here Comes My Girl," "Mary Jane's Last Dance," "Learning To Fly," "American Girl," "Runnin' Down A Dream," "I Won't Back Down," and more.

Among the covers featured on the collection are the Grateful Dead's "A Friend Of The Devil," Thunderclap Newman's "Something In The Air," Booker T. & The MG's "Green Onions," Fleetwood Mac's "Oh Well," the theme from the 007 spy thriller Goldfinger, and the Dave Clark Five's "Any Way You Want It," among others.

We asked Heartbreakers cofounder Mike Campbell how the band got the idea to compile a career-spanning live set: "Well it came from Tom first. I remember we were on tour once and he said, 'I wanna put together all the best live stuff we've ever done.' He said, 'But it's a lot of work, so why don't you do it? (laughs).' So I got an engineer and started digging in to the archives. Then as we went along we found some things and got him to listen to a few things and he got really excited, and then he jumped on and wanted to be hands-on with us. So that's how it kinda came about."

Campbell admits it was fascinating to listen to the band's evolution of the decades: "It was really different to hear the different eras of the band. Like to hear the band back in the late-'70s, early-'80s, and to hear the youthful energy, Stan Lynch on the drums, and the original lineup was really refreshing to hear what that was after all these years. And then to compare it to what we're doing now, y'know, it's quite a journey."

The set is available in several different configurations:

A 4-CD/48-track set.

A deluxe box featuring a five-CD/62-track set -- including two-DVDs including the Heartbreakers'1978 New Year's Eve concert in Santa Monica, California; the documentary 400 Days which was shot during the Wildflowers tour, a remastered vinyl copy of Official Live Leg bootleg from 1976, a high resolution DVD with all 62 tracks in 5.1 and stereo and more.

A standard digital release.

NEW BEATLES 'BOX OF VISION' GIVES CLASSIC ALBUM ARTWORK NEW LEASE ON LIFE…The holiday gift that just may give the Beatles remasters and Rock Band game a run for their money does nothing more than store the Beatles catalogue. For the first time ever; the band's company Apple has allowed all the group's album artwork to be collected in a single hardcover coffee table book. The officially-sanctioned book The Beatles: Box Of Vision, was spearheaded by compiler Jonathan Polk, and consists of a 200-page LP-size book which rounds up all of the Beatles' classic album artwork in one deluxe package.

Polk explains that the impetus of the project -- which was years in the making -- was basically an effort to preserve the Beatles album artwork for the ages: "The driving force behind this was to try and deal with all the things about CD's that really I felt disconnect people from the music. One being the fact that it's really difficult to store your CD's in any satisfying way. CD's changed the game. They were awkward, they came in different size packages. . . But in the artwork part of it, obviously, I was very dissatisfied that all this big beautiful artwork was reduced to these little books. Y'know, if you're over 45 years old -- which is the predominant part of this fan base -- you can't read it! Now you can put it on your lap, relax, open the pages up like you used to."

Polk says that it took perseverance and even some technical magic, to recreate the pristine Beatles album artwork: "I went to Apple first, I went to EMI, (and) Capitol Records here in the U.S., and then for the most part, I went to record collectors and collected as many copies of actual records I could find -- as old as possible. I would say for each cover there's about 10 or 15 different scans. So a lot of it is combinations. In some cases there were really beautiful and pristine covers that just needed to be minor touch ups to get it through. But a lot of them were combinations and details from different ones."

STEPHEN STILLS SCRAPPED MULTIDISC BOX SET DUE TO LOUSY ECONOMY…Stephen Stills says that tough times forced him to scale back his planned archival project. Stills recently released Manassas: Pieces, which features 15 outtakes and rarities from his groundbreaking early '70s country rock ensemble with Byrds co-founder Chris Hillman. The set also features guest spots by Joe Walsh and Bonnie Raitt.

Stills says that the collection was part of a huge vault projects that got sidelined, telling The Wall Street Journal, "I was working on a boxed set, but the recession being what it is, I thought I'd put out a few things, like the Manassas album, and not ask people to buy a 10-CD set. I have enough material to do that."

When asked about getting the rest of the archives released -- including a rumored album's worth of material with Jimi Hendrix -- Stills said: "It's going to take awhile. Eventually, we'll release lots of things. . . I have a room the size of a fairly good-sized restaurant that's filled with boxes and boxes of outtakes and jams. . . There's a little bit with Hendrix, but not as much as everybody thinks. We'd jam and sometimes the tape was rolling for 20 minutes and other times nobody thought to record it."

Stills revealed that Hendrix turned him on to restringing lefty guitars for righties for a better sound: "Jimi showed me up close and personal, something about the positioning with the pickups made them sound better upside down. But I had a '50s lefty Strat, and that went away. Somebody nabbed it."

Out now is Live At Shepherd's Bush, which features Stills caught live in London during the fall of 2008. The album includes acoustic and full electric band sets, featuring such classics as "4 + 20," "Johnny's Garden," "Change Partners," "Suite: Judy Blue Eyes," "Rock & Roll Woman," "Bluebird," "For What It's Worth," and "Love The One You're With," among others.

That’s it for now, as always, if you can’t be good, be good at it and don’t get caught!!

Happy Turkey Day!!

Jonathan

Wednesday - November 25, 2009 -

noreply@blogger.com (Jonathan Knight) — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 16:21:00 +0000

ON THIS DAY

On this date in 1758, the British capture Fort Duquesne at what is now Pittsburgh. They sacked the quarterback four times!

In 1884, evaporated milk was invented when a cow was vaporized.

On this date in 1922, the entrance to King Tut's tomb was discovered. He was buried there so he could be close to his mummy. Or, the head of the expedition grew very attached to his mummy. That same day, FTD introduced their Mummy's Day Bouquet.

TODAY IS

Christmas is exactly one month away!

The Bush twins -- Barbara and Jenna -- turn 28 today. They're fraternal twins because their dad belonged to a fraternity.

Christina Applegate turns 38. Wow, sounds like a Lifetime series.

Amy Grant is 49 today. She sang "Baby, Baby"... the big hit follow up to her less known song, "Baby."

Funny guy John Larroquette turns 62 today. He's one of those guys who very premature gray hair. Made junior high pretty tough.

Shopping Reminder Day -- It's exactly one month before Christmas, time to remind you that there are only 24 more shopping days after today until Christmas (excluding Sundays, Thanksgiving and Christmas Eve).

THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW

Last week, "Cougar Town" shut down production because Courtney Cox had a "family matter" to deal with. Apparently, all is resolved, because production will resume next week.

Regis Philbin will undergo hip replacement surgery next week (Tuesday).

Don Rickles has signed up to do another year's worth of shows in Las Vegas at age 83.

Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie donated over $6 million to charities last year.

The Food Network's Paula Deen got an unexpected serving of ham... across her face. She was helping to unload 25,000 pounds of donated meat for an Atlanta food bank on Monday when someone threw one of the hams like a football and accidentally smacked her.

Jon and Kate Gosselin's divorce could be finalized before the end of the year.

P Diddy is going to go on the Home Shopping Network and hawk his fragrances, "I am King" "Unforgivable."

Oprah's BFF Gayle King says O is at peace with her decision to end her talk show after 25 years.

Little Richard is asking fans to pray for his speedy recovery after undergoing hip surgery at a Tennessee hospital.

Howie Mandel has a new book out called, "Don't Touch Me."

The first section of "City Center" -- a new $8.5 billion shopping, business and living complex in Las Vegas -- opens next Tuesday.

Now, John Kerry's daughter, Alexandra, won't be prosecuted for drunk driving. The DA says on review, her alcohol level was below the legal limit.

When Lady Gaga saw the huge line outside of an LA music store, waiting to get an autographed copy of her new album, her people called up Papa John's and she bought 80 cheese pizza's to be delivered to the folks in line.

Heidi Klum has now taken Seal's last name. It's now Heidi Samuel.

WEIRD NEWS

Coma Victim Actually Conscious For 23 Years! - So imagine you're in a car crash and become completely paralyzed. Now imagine that, even though you're completely conscious, your doctors decide you're in a coma and leave you lying in your hospital bed. Now imagine you lay there for the next 23 years! That is the story of England's Rom Houben. For 23 years Ron could not let doctors know that he could hear every word they were saying. Now 46, Ron says, "I dreamed myself away. All that time I just literally dreamed of a better life. Frustration is too small a word to describe what I felt." Back in 1983, Doctors conducted a series of coma tests before concluding that his consciousness was "extinct". But three years ago, new hi-tech scans showed his brain was still functioning almost completely normally. Ron's amazing case has only just been revealed in a scientific paper released by the man who "saved" him, top neurological expert Dr. Steven Laureys. Dr. Laureys believes there may be many similar cases of false comas around the world. Ron is still completely paralyzed so is likely to never leave the hospital, but now has a special computer above his bed which lets him read books while lying down. Ron said, "I shall never forget the day when they discovered what was truly wrong with me. It was my second birth. I want to read, talk with my friends via the computer and enjoy my life now that people know I am not dead." (Ananova)

And Why Wasn't Little Johnny In School Today? - In Warwick, Rhode Island, police say a 17-year-old boy skipped school to rob a bank and has been arrested after leaving fingerprints on the threatening note he passed to the teller. Apparently the boy was not a very good student as the note was riddled with misspellings. The note demanded money or threatened that "everyone will be shot." The teller at Coastway Community Bank gave the boy money, but he didn't have much time to spend it. Thanks to video surveillance pictures and the fingerprints, he was arrested six hours after the alleged theft and now faces a first degree robbery charge. (The Providence Journal)

A Thankful Turkey! - Here's one turkey that won't be on anyone's table this Thursday. In Rehoboth, Massachusetts, Lyndsey Medeiros is seeking donations from fellow pet lovers to help pay for eye surgery for her turkey named Jerry. Lyndsey and her husband adopted three-year-old Jerry and another turkey from a Rhode Island farm last week. But Jerry has cataracts, and the eye problems mean he can't eat independently or join his female companion, Penelope, in flying. So Lyndsey posted an ad on Craigslist seeking donations for the surgery which could cost up to $2,600. Her farm in Rehoboth cares for other animals with health problems. (myway.com)

Have a 100-Proof Thanksgiving! - If you want to share in the Thanksgiving bird at O'Casey's Tavern in Midtown Manhattan, you'll have to be 21 and you'll need some I.D. O'Casey's owner, Paul Hurley, said he'll unveil what he is calling the nation's first 100-proof turkey! The bird was infused with fruit-flavored and 100-proof Georgi vodka for three days before being cooked. The flavors of vodka include peach, raspberry, cherry and apple. The gravy is also laced with the liquor. Out of concern over the danger of drinking-and-driving, the tavern is offering free taxi ride home to anyone who orders the boozy bird! (myway.com)

Gonna Catch The Wabbit! - In Woodward, Oklahoma, police went on an unexpected rabbit hunt after receiving a call about a suspicious person dressed in a rabbit suit and harassing some school kids at a local McDonald's. Reportedly "a man in a Mazda convertible dressed in a rabbit suit" had allegedly been driving around the kid's school bus while it was parked at the McDonald's. They were able to track down the vehicle and discovered the driver was in fact wearing a pink bunny costume minus a mask. He wasn't arrested as police officers had not witnessed him harassing any of the students. Police Lt. Monty Martin said, "He hadn't been drinking or anything, just acting goofy. It was just a young person being silly. I told him you need to act your age," adding that when he learned that the guy had just recently moved to Woodward, "We didn't do that kind of stuff up here." (The Woodward News)

Definitely Not Ready For Prime Time Crime! - Who knew it was so easy to stop a robbery in process? In Orlando, Florida, two suspects in hooded sweatshirts, masks and armed with a shotgun walked into an Einstein Bros. Bagels and tried to rob the place. But their attempt was stopped cold when one of the employees simply pushed a bagel cart at the suspects. The suspects suddenly fled apparently concluding that their shot gun was no match for an angry cart load of bagels. (Orlando Sentinel)

The New Pot Smoking King! - When one pauses to reflect on the world's most prolific pot smokers, one conjures up names like Snoop Dog, Cheech and Chong, Willie Nelson. But don't forget about 56-year-old Irvin Rosenfeld of Fort Lauderdale! The stockbroker just set a new world record for weed consumption while lighting up his 115,000th joint. And it's all legal! Rosenfeld told reporters his stash was all provided by Uncle Sam saying, "They grow it for me, I find that quite ironic." Rosenfeld's pot has been provided by the government since 1982, when he became a patient in the Federal Drug Administration's Investigational New Drug Program. Grown on a farm on the campus of the University of Mississippi, the weed is delivered to a local pharmacy where Rosenfeld gets it by the bushel. He suffers from a rare bone disorder which causes severe pain, alleviated by a healthy dose of ganja. He's been getting 300 joints every 25 days for the past 27 years, and said he smokes between 10 and 12 per day. Rosenfeld said he's never gotten high and has never gotten "the munchies." He says, "A lot of patients don't get high." Rosenfeld is an advocate for the Feds providing medicinal marijuana, a policy ended in 1992. While most people who need medicinal marijuana rely on the dozen or so states that allow it, Rosenfeld and three others were grandfathered into the federal program. He said he's lucky to be able to get his hands on what many others can't. (NBC News)

What A Difference a Day Makes! - It's rather amazing how a man's life can change in just 24 hours. 56-year-old Charles Wesley Mumbere had been toiling away as a nurse's aide at a nursing home in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania for years. That is until just recently when the Ugandan government recognized the separatist Rwenzururu territory founded in 1962 by Mumbere's late father. So this month, Mr. Mumbere returned to his native country and now reigns as king of the region's 300,000 subjects. (The Guardian)

Facebook In the Monestary! - 11-year-old Jigme Wangchuk had been enjoying life as a student at St. Peter's School in Boston. However that came to an abrupt end this month as he was just enthroned by a Buddhist sect in his native India's Darjeeling district and named its high priest. He now rules over a territory extending to neighboring Nepal and Bhutan. Unfortunately for him, that means he now has to live in seclusion in his monastery, except for occasional contact with Facebook friends he made while in Boston. (Daily Telegraph)

FIVE THINGS THE PILGRIMS DID ON THANKSGIVING
1. Watched annual football game between the Redskins and the Chiefs
2. Made comments like, "Shouldn'tst thou have removed the feathers?"
3. Publicly flogged Earl Cathaway after he remarked to Mrs. Hanson, "Nice yams!"
4. "I maketh dibs on the wishbone!"
5. Complained about no national healthcare plan

HUNTER'S HUMOR by Tim Hunter

Last week, 5 storms rolled through our area. This week: none. I guess we should be thankful. Now, to figure out which day we should do that...

Over the river and through the woods is a lot more challenging these days, what with all the vampires and werewolves running all over.

Jennifer Lopez says she meant to trip during her performance Sunday night at the AMA's. By the way, since then, her booty has experience several aftershocks.

The movie "Ninja Assassin" opens this weekend... just in time to pick up a few tips on holiday shopping.

HOW BIG OF AN IDIOT ARE YOU?

Take the test, see how you score.

1. Do they have a 4th of July in England?

2. How many birthdays does the average man have?

3. Some months have 31 days; how many have 28?

4. A woman gives a beggar 50 cents; the woman is the beggar's sister, but the beggar is not the woman's brother. How come?

5. Why can't a man living in the USA be buried in Canada?

6. How many outs are there in an inning?

7. Is it legal for a man in California to marry his widow's sister? Why?

8. Two men play five games of checkers. Each man wins the same number of games. There are no ties. Explain this.

9. Divide 30 by 1/2 and add 10. What is the answer?

10. A man builds a house rectangular in shape. All sides have southern exposure. A big bear walks by, what color is the bear? Why?

11. If there are 3 apples and you take away 2, how many do you have?

12. I have two U.S. coins totaling 55 cents. One is not a nickel. What are the coins?

13. If you have only one match and you walked into a room where there was an oil burner, a kerosene lamp, and a wood burning stove, which one would you light first?

14. How far can a dog run into the woods?

15. A doctor gives you three pills telling you to take one every half hour. How long would the pills last?

16. A farmer has 17 sheep, and all but 9 die. How many are left?

17. How many animals of each sex did Moses take on the ark?

18. A clerk in the butcher shop is 5' 10" tall. What does he weigh?

19. How many two cent stamps are there in a dozen?

20. What was the President's name in 1950?

Answers:

1. Yes
2. One
3. All of them (12)
4. The beggar is her sister.
5. He can't be buried if he isn't dead.
6. SIX
7. No - because he is dead.
8. They aren't playing each other.
9. 70
10. White. The house is at the North Pole so it is a polar bear.
11. 2
12. 50 cent piece and a nickel. (The other one is a nickel)
13. The match.
14. Half way. Then he is running out of the woods.
15. 1 Hour
16. 9
17. None - Noah took them on the ark.
18. Meat
19. 12
20. Bill Clinton - Same as it is today...

Answers to Test and Scoring guide:

20 Correct - Genius

17 Correct - Above Normal

15 Correct - Normal

8 Correct - Not the brightest crayon in the box

6 Correct - Not quite an idiot...definitely not an Einstein

3 Correct - Big Idiot

On to ROCK NEWS –

REMEMBERING GEORGE HARRISON…It was eight years ago Sunday (November 29th, 2001) that George Harrison died after a long battle with cancer, at age 58. Harrison, the first of the Beatles to embrace Eastern philosophies and culture, will also be remembered for his humanitarian efforts, such as his 1971 Concert For Bangladesh for famine relief.

After the group's split in 1970, Harrison's solo career kicked off with the Number One hit "My Sweet Lord" and the Number One album All Things Must Pass. He was also responsible for organizing 1971's The Concert For Bangladesh, which was the first major rock fundraiser, which paved the way for countless other music-supported benefits over the years.

Harrison wrote such Beatles classics as "Don't Bother Me," "I Need You," "Think For Yourself," "If I Needed Someone," "Taxman," "I Want To Tell You," "Within You, Without You," "Blue Jay Way," "It's Only A Northern Song," "It's All Too Much," "The Inner Light," "While My Guitar Gently Weeps," "Piggies" "I Me Mine," "For You Blue," "Old Brown Shoe," "Something," and "Here Comes The Sun," among others.

Other solo hits included "What Is Life," "Bangla Desh," "Give Me Love (Give Me Peace On Earth)," "Dark Horse," "You," "This Song," "Crackerbox Palace," "Blow Away," "All Those Years Ago," and his 1987 comeback single "Got My Mind Set On You," which is the last solo Number One single by any former Beatle to date.

Harrison produced Ringo Starr's initial solo singles "It Don't Come Easy" and "Back Off Boogaloo," as well also co-writing Starr's first Number One hit "Photograph" with him.

Shortly after his return to the spotlight in 1987, Harrison co-founded the supergroup the Traveling Wilburys with Bob Dylan, Roy Orbison, Jeff Lynne and Tom Petty. In 1991 he undertook a brief tour of Japan with Eric Clapton and his band.

His widow Olivia Harrison has lead a successful reissue campaign of the Harrison solo catalog, including a recent box set of the Traveling Wilburys material. A future collection featuring highlights of Harrison's sole North American solo tour from 1974 is said to be in the works for the near future. Olivia is also serving as the executive producer for director Martin Scorsese's upcoming documentary on Harrison's life and work.

The Harrison's son Dhani is now a musician in his own right, leading his own band the New Number Two, as well as spearheading the production of the recent Beatles: Rock Band game.

Harrison's first wife Pattie Boyd recently published her memoir on her marriages to Harrison and future husband Eric Clapton titled Wonderful Tonight: George Harrison, Eric Clapton And Me. Boyd was amazed at what a loving and supportive family Harrison had away from the madness of "Beatlemania": "They were so warm as a family and really were most inviting and kind to me, and I was very fond of them. And I'm still in touch with Harry, George's eldest brother. And so I had spent a lot of time with him and his wife Irene, and with (his brother) Pete and his wife and their children. So... we all grew up together."

Olivia Harrison was asked how she thought George would have made sense of the post-9/11 world: "You know he died in 2001, in November, and you know what events took prior to that, and he was pretty horrified and very sad. And I think his solution to everything was to go inside and be part of the solution. And he used to say, 'For a forest to be green each tree must be green.' And I think he'd really taken to keeping his own house in order."

Life-long friend Eric Clapton said that it might have taken Harrison's death to show people just how great he really was: "The best thing that came out of his passing was that we all got to remember exactly what he'd contributed, you know, as much as any of the other guys -- and maybe more so, because it was an individual achievement. You know, Lennon & McCartney's one thing, and Paul is one thing, and John's one, but I think George -- in my opinion, I found him, his work the most accessible, and the strongest, for me to tune in to."

SLASH JOINED BY OZZY, OTHER GUNS N' ROSES MEMBERS AT BENEFIT…Ex-Guns N' Roses guitarist Slash was joined by two other ex-members of the original Guns lineup, as well as Ozzy Osbourne, Linkin Park's Chester Bennington and others, at a benefit gig on Sunday night (November 22nd) in Hollywood for the Los Angeles Youth Network (LAYN). At one point in the show, Slash was joined onstage by former Guns drummer Steven Adler and bassist Duff McKagan for a rendition of the Guns tune "Paradise City" with Bennington on vocals, making for perhaps the highest concentration of original Guns members to share a stage together in years.

According to NME.com, other surprise guests at the show included Rage Against The Machine axeman Tom Morello, singer Billy Idol and Jane's Addiction guitarist Dave Navarro.

Slash has enlisted a number of rock and pop luminaries to appear on his upcoming solo album, Slash & Friends, tentatively due out in March 2010.

Among the artists appearing on the album are Dave Grohl, Flea, Chris Cornell, Duff McKagan, Wolfmother's Andrew Stockdale, Iggy Pop, Alice Cooper, Nicole Scherzinger, Meat Loaf, Maroon 5's Adam Levine and Ozzy Osbourne, who contributes vocals to the first single.

STALEMATE BETWEEN AEROSMITH AND STEVEN TYLER CONTINUES…Aerosmith guitarist Joe Perry told MTV News at Sunday night's (November 22nd) 2009 American Music Awards that he and singer Steven Tyler are still not on speaking terms following Tyler's announcement that he wanted to go solo for two years and his subsequent appearance with Perry's own solo band in New York a couple of weeks ago. Perry said, "I think that you just have to listen to what's going on in the press. Because that's the only thing I know. All I know is that the four guys (other than Tyler in Aerosmith) want to work . . . The band's going to be working."

Perry told reporters Sunday night that the four non-singing members of Aerosmith will likely begin discussions over the holidays about getting a new frontman.

As for how audiences might react to Aerosmith with a different frontman, Perry said he's not sure: "Part of it's the personalities in the band and part of it's the songs. So we're gonna be able to deliver the songs, and also, I mean, we'll work with somebody who is gonna bring something to the party, and it may knock Aerosmith up a whole 'nother notch. So that's something I'm excited about."

Tyler has been estranged from the band since August, when he fell from a stage in South Dakota and forced the group to cancel the rest of its summer tour.

The other members have revealed that Tyler has his own management, and that none of them have had any contact with him in months. Drummer Joey Kramer and guitarist Brad Whitford have hinted that they think Tyler might be using drugs again.

Tyler did join Perry onstage in New York two weeks ago while the latter was touring with his Joe Perry Project solo band, telling the crowd that he wasn't quitting Aerosmith.

ROB ZOMBIE WANTS TO BREAK OUT OF HORROR WITH NEXT MOVIE…Rob Zombie told the Chicago Tribune on Tuesday (November 24th) that he wants his next film as a writer/director to be outside the horror genre. Zombie, who has made four horror movies since 2003, said, "If you go down that road too far, it's hard to break out of it. I don't want to get stuck with anything. I want the freedom to do what I want to do." Zombie's last film, Halloween II, was released in late August to mostly horrible reviews and lukewarm box office.

Zombie recently said on a conference call with reporters that the movie he hopes to do next might surprise people: "The movies I've made up to this point have been pretty dark and pretty much in that world because those are the opportunities that were presented. But I'm also working on something now that is not in that world at all. You know, the people that put up the money for these things know that if I stick to that sort of thing, it's easily more profitable. So it's a much bigger challenge to break out of it. But if everything goes according to plan, and the next movie that I want to make is the next movie, people are gonna be shocked as to what it is."

Zombie has been planning to make an action film called Tyrannosaurus Rex, and has also been named to write and direct a remake of The Blob, but there's no indication yet of when or if either project will get off the ground.

He was approached to direct 2008's Punisher: War Zone but passed. His other films include House Of 1000 Corpses, The Devil's Rejects and Halloween.

Zombie releases a new solo album, Hellbilly Deluxe 2, on February 2nd. He is currently on the road and stops on Wednesday night (November 25th) in Columbus, Ohio.

ROGER DALTREY OFFERING REFUNDS FOR CANCELED BALTIMORE GIG…Roger Daltrey announced that fans will be reimbursed for his November 10th show at Baltimore's Lyric Opera House which he was forced to cancel due a "throat issue." Fans were told at the time to hang on to their tickets and wait for further instructions -- with many holding out hope that the Who frontman would make up the show at the end of his tour.

On Monday (November 23rd) a message was posted on thewho.com stating: RESCHEDULE IMPOSSIBLE: Roger Daltrey's gig in Baltimore, which he had to cancel due to ill health, unfortunately cannot be rescheduled. "Roger only has a short window at the end of the tour before he has to be back in the UK for work commitments and the venue is not available," says the singer's management.

RICHIE SAMBORA GETS A STREET NAMED AFTER HIM…Bon Jovi guitarist Richie Sambora now has a street named after him. According to the Associated Press, on Tuesday (November 24th), residents and public officials gathered in Sambora's hometown of Woodbridge, New Jersey to name a street in his honor -- Richie Sambora Way. Sambora, who attended the event yesterday with his mother, still has close ties to his hometown. He recently launched a fundraising effort called, "You Can Go Home," which benefits 19-year-old Kelly Mahon, a Woodbridge woman who was diagnosed with a brain tumor two years ago. He's also paying for a new weight room at his alma mater, Woodbridge High School. Sambora is naming it after his father Adam, who died of cancer in 2007.

Bon Jovi is out with a new album called The Circle. The band kicks off a tour next year.

That’s it for now, as always if you can’t be good, be good at it and don’t get caught!!

Happy Thanksgiving –

Jonathan

Monday - November 23, 2009 -

noreply@blogger.com (Jonathan Knight) — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 18:31:00 +0000

ON THIS DAY

On this date in 1887, Notre Dame lost its first game to Michigan, 8-0. I thought you'd wanna know.

John Lee Love of Fall River, MA, patented his "Love Sharpener" or the Pencil Sharpener way, way back in 1897 -- Bit idea: Have a pencil sharpening contest, the first to sharpen 50 pencils wins.

On this day in 1936, the very first issue of Life magazine hit the newsstands. Finally, an answer to the age-old question, "What is life?"

In 1945, the rationing of food because of the war finally ended. However, now there's an idea whose time has come: rationing food!

On this date in 1948, the zoom lens was invented. It was also on this date in 1948 that the inventor's neighbors broke down and bought curtains.

TODAY IS

Rap singer Kurupt turns 37 today. That scraping sound you hear is the bottom of the celebrity birthday barrel.

Bruce Hornsby turns 55 and that's just the way it is...

THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW

A new United Nations study claims that Afghanistan is the most dangerous place in the world for a child to be born.

James Van Der Beek has filed for divorce from wife Heather McComb.

Jim Carrey walked his 22-year-old daughter Jane down the aisle last weekend as she married musician Alex Santana. Imagine Jim as your father-in-law.

"Lost" will return for it's final season February 2.

Tom Cruise and Cameron Diaz are in Austria this week to continue shooting their new movie, "Knight and Day."

The National Enquirer reports that Penny Marshall is battling liver cancer.

John Kerry's daughter, Alexandra, was arrested last week on suspicion of DUI.

Assault and harassment charges against singer John Rich (Big and Rich) were dismissed on Friday. Rich and other witnesses testified that he did not punch singer Jared Ashley at a private nightclub in March, 2008.

"CSI Miami" co-star Eddie Cibrian is suing Life & Style Weekly for defamation over a recent story claiming he was cheating on girlfriend LeAnn Rimes. He wants the court to award him $1 million.

Tonight is the final new episode of "Jon and Kate Plus Eight"... forever.

James Caan has filed for divorce from wife #4 after 14 years of trying to make it work.

Britney Spears' ex-boyfriend Adnan Ghalib was sentenced to jail for 45 days for leaving the scene of an accident. He pleaded no contest last month to leaving the scene of an accident that injured a man who was trying to serve him with a restraining order.

Google's new Chrome operation system will out a year from now.

9 Ways to Reclaim Your Sex Life in 2009 (from Fox News). Is one of your New Year's resolutions to reclaim your sex life? Here are nine easy tips to reclaiming your sex life:

1. Just Do It! It might sound silly, but just have more sex.

2. Connect. Do something non-physical -- together. You can't just turn sex on when it's time to go to bed.

3. Be Positive. In times of economic crisis, many couples may argue over finances. It's important not to act negatively outside of the bedroom if you want to have a positive relationship inside it.

4. Unplug. There's no urgent need to check your BlackBerry -- your relationship has to be a priority.

5. Be Healthy. Believe it or not, your health factors into your sex drive, so maintaining a healthy lifestyle is imperative.

6. Fantasize. It's important to understand that sex, especially in a long-term relationship, is mental.

7. Pitch In. Men: If you want to get some action, it's time to take some action. Maybe you weren't getting any in 2008 because you weren't doing enough about it in 2008. Try helping around the house a little more and your female partner may suddenly be in the mood.

8. Don't Fake It. Aim for honesty.

9. Love Nest. Does your bed still have those outdated sheets that the baby once peed on? Is your bedroom cluttered with laundry just waiting to be folded? Maybe it's time to turn the bedroom into more of a "love nest."

WEIRD NEWS

Who Would Ever Notice 15 Lizards Strapped To My Chest? - In the world of really dumb ideas, this one is award winning. Federal officials in Los Angeles say they arrested 40-year-old Michael Plank of Lomita, California, after he strapped 15 live lizards to his chest and tried to get through customs at LAX. Mike was returning from Australia and apparently was convinced nobody would notice the two geckos, two monitor lizards and 11 skink lizards fastened to his body. All Australian reptiles are strictly regulated and our buddy sadly did not have a permit for them. This never sits well with Mr. Customs Man. (Los Angeles Times)

It May Not Be Officially Perverted, But It's Damn Creepy! - It doesn't quite qualify as child sexual assault but 39-year-old Charles Hersel was arrested in Thousand Oaks, California and charged with misdemeanor child annoyance after allegedly paid a teenager $31 to spit in his face. A sheriff's statement said Westlake High School students claimed Hersel also paid them to yell profanities, spit on him and slap him in the face. Several also claimed he offered them cash to urinate and defecate on him. Hersel allegedly contacted some of the teens through the ultra safe place for your child to hang out -- the MySpace social networking site. (myway.com)

Doctor May Lose His License Over a Fat Freeloader! - He didn't quite call her a fat freeloader, but Dr. Earl Sunderhaus of Asheville, North Carolina might just lose his license after a patient complained he made cutting criticisms, including telling her she was fat. Perhaps if he was her primary care physician this would be more understandable but in fact, he's just her eye doctor. Dr. Sunderhaus' patient claims he poked her thigh and told her she was fat. He also allegedly told her she was irresponsible for being unemployed and relying on taxpayers to pay for another pregnancy. Sauderhaus' version is that he only told the patient she had thick thighs and diabetes could cause her to go blind. Now it's up to the North Carolina Medical Board to decide if the good doctor overstepped the bounds of professional decency. He didn't exactly help his case though when he wrote to the patient, Gov. Beverly Perdue and blasted the medical board. (Raleigh News & Observer)

Bingo Psych! - In Montgomery, Alabama, Victoryland, an electronic bingo center, might have just as well yelled, "PSYCH" after one of their bingo machines told Sherry Knowles she had just won $41.8 million bucks! No -- you can't win $41.8 million with a $1 bet playing bingo and yes -- the machine malfunctioned. However, originally the Macon County court ruled that Victoryland owed Knowles $10 million. But that was shot down by the Alabama Supreme Court who said no way. Victoryland officials said the machine displayed the symbol "snake eyes," which pays only $2 bucks. Unfortunately it malfunctioned and kept ringing up credits that totaled the $41.8 million! (myway.com)

Kissing You Makes Me High! - In Mercer, Pennsylvania, police arrested a female visitor who came to the State Correctional Institutiob to visit her incarcerated man. During the visit she happened to give him a very long kiss. Police became suspicious when it looked like the guy swallowed something after the kiss. While the inmate denied doing anything wrong, turns out his girlfriend had orally passed a balloon filled with marijuana to him. So they put him in an isolated cell so they could monitor his potty visits. Eventually the balloon appeared. Now the inmate and his gal pal face charges of conspiracy to smuggle contraband among other things. (The Herald)

You May Now Officially Start To Panic Over H1N1! - First there was widespread panic about H1N1. Then we all realized that half the country has it and it's not nearly as deadly as we thought. Well things just took a turn for the worse. A new drug-resistant mutation of the H1N1 influenza virus has been discovered in hospital patients in Wales. Doctors say the strain is resistant to Tamiflu, the most common antiviral used against flu. The resistance is believed to have developed in one patient in the University Hospital of Wales in Cardiff and spread to others. Two have been discharged, but one is in intensive care, while the other two remain in the hospital. The Norwegian Institute of Public Health reported another H1N1 mutation found in three patients, including the first two to die from H1N1 in Norway. (Sky News)

Evidence? You Mean That Thing I Just Ate? - In Twinsburg, Ohio, police made a mistake. They were in the process of arresting 35-year-old John H. Ford of Cleveland, who had allegedly handed a bank teller a note demanding cash. Funny thing was -- nobody was sure what happened to the note. But while police had Ford handcuffed and leaning over the hood of a police cruiser, they began to search him and started emptying the contents of his pockets and putting them on the hood of the car. Turns out the note was in his pocket. But before anyone realized what was happening, Ford bent over, grabbed the note in his mouth and swallowed it down! Patrolman Daniel Biada said, ''He grabbed it in his mouth, just like Pacman. He just ate it right there.'' Ford is also a suspect in two other bank robberies and even without the note, police feel they have a pretty solid case. (Ohio.com)

Don't You Know the Kia People Love This! - You can't pay for this kind of publicity and we're sure the folks at Kia are thanking the P.R. gods above. A couple from Dorset, England have named their new baby daughter Kia after she had to be delivered in the back seat of a Kia minivan. Tony Richardson and Samantha Smyth were racing to the hospital in Samantha's mother's 's vehicle when they realized they weren't going to make it. Baby Kia was born at 4.30am and Tony and Sam decided to ditch their original name of "Tilley" to commemorate the unusual birth. This all worked out very well for them as Kia has now offered to give the couple a new Kia Carens-- the same model baby Kia was born in-- worth $26,000. A company spokesperson said, "We would like to welcome Kia to the Kia family and wish her a wonderful life." Damn Honey -- told you we should have named the kid Rolls Royce! (Ananova)

TOP FIVE BEST HOLIDAY SHOPPING ACCESSORIES

1. Doorbuster numchucks
2. A Kevlar credit card (they can't stop me!)
3. Elbow and knee pads and a hockey mask
4. John Goodman to run interference
5. Shopping bag with built-in roll bar

HUNTER'S HUMOR by Tim Hunter

Joe Biden's birthday was last Friday. His speech thanking his friends for coming to his party should be just about over by now...

Oprah says her syndicated show is going to end in September of 2011... just like the ancient Mayan calendar predicted.

So, now that you've figured out the show, Oprah... what about the Stedman thing?

AOL plans to layoff a third of its work force... in a weird way. People will just show up to work when a computer voice says, "You've got Unemployment!"

AOL is cutting back by 1/3. From now on, it will just be called "AO".

Twitter is now available in French. Of course, the tough part for the French will being rude in 140 or less characters.

TOP 10 TIPS TO AVOID PACKING ON HOLIDAY POUNDS

(National Examiner) Packing on pounds is easy to do during the holidays. So here are 10 suggestions to help you keep the weight off from nutrition and health expert Dr. James D. Krystosik:

1. Get plenty of sleep. Being tired often triggers eating pangs.

2. Drink plenty of water. If you don't take in liquid, the body retains it, increasing body weight by 10 to 15 pounds.

3. Curb appetite by loading up on "good carbs" - high fiber veggies like beans, whole grains such as oats and brown rice and fruits.

4. Limit your intake of proteins.

5. Keep stress levels down by walking, exercising and meditation. Stress can spark the appetite.

6. Avoid "bad carbs" like high-starch potatoes, breads and desserts.

7. Vinegar reduces the body's absorption of "bad carbs" so use a variety of vinegar with olive oil for salad dressings.

8. Stay away from foods with hydrogenated oils and the sweetener aspartame. These substances do not aid in weight loss.

9. Choose foods with "good fats" like soy beans, avocado, nuts and seeds, fish like salmon, tuna and halibut and leafy green veggies.

10. Keep in touch with a pal who has similar diet and health goals to boost your willpower during the holiday food feast.

On to ROCK NEWS –

JON BON JOVI: 'I COULDN'T HAVE SURVIVED AMERICAN IDOL'…Jon Bon Jovi has been making music for 25 years, but if he were just coming up as an artist today, the New Jersey rocker doesn't think he'd stand a chance, say, on the popular TV show American Idol. He thinks the process is really tough on contestants, telling Spinner.com, "It's a very difficult spotlight to be in and a microscope to be under. I couldn't have survived it to be honest with you." When it comes to making it in the music industry these days, Bon Jovi says that touring around the U.S. and auditioning for Idol are both good "launching pads," but adds, "If you're brave enough to go on and win one of those Idol contests, ultimately you better have the songs to back it up. Chris Daughtry has delivered songs on two albums in a row. But I'm sure there are 10 Idols I can think of that didn't do that or had a flash in the pan."

Bon Jovi is out with a new Number One album called The Circle.

The band will kick off a tour next year.

ROGER DALTREY BLASTS NOISY FANS AND DOPE SMOKERS AT NYC GIG…The tough New York City fans were no match for Roger Daltrey, whose Use It Or Lose It tour hit the Nokia Theatre in the heart of Manhattan's Times Square on Friday night (November 20th). The 2,100-strong crowd was clearly unimpressed with the sci-fi, retro cacophony of Daltrey's young opening act Paper Zoo -- who bravely soldered on against a vocally belligerent group of die-hard fans eager for a night of Who songs.

Although Daltrey was good natured throughout the show, portions of the crowd grew impatient with his long between-song-banter. Daltrey was forced to pause during several of his introductions to tell the noisy crowd to shut up, and at one point lost his cool, shouting, "Do you wanna f***ing come up here and I'll teach you how to really shout? You're f***ing selfish." Daltrey also had to urge members of the audience to stop smoking pot several times due to the fact that he sadly is now allergic to it and the smoke tends to constrict his vocal cords. He had to remind the tokers several times to take it easy with the smoke which was making its way onto the stage.

Daltrey shook up the night's setlist, performing the Who's "Naked Eye" -- a song which ironically opens with the line "Take a little dope," which he joked beforehand that he never remembers the band recording -- possibly because he was high at the time.

Also included was a rendition of Creedence Clearwater Revival's "Born On The Bayou," along with a request by the band for the Quadrophenia standout "The Real Me."

One of the highlights of the show was Daltrey's rhythm guitarist -- and Pete Townshend's kid brother -- Simon Townshend tackling Pete's Who's Next classic "Going Mobile," which drew some of the loudest cheers of the night.

Daltrey says that if Simon wasn't burdened with having a genius older brother, his name would be on everyone's lips: "He's always been with me. He's like my right-hand man on stage. He's someone who I deeply respect as a musician. I've always felt a little bit -- not sorry for -- but I kind of feel for him that in any other environment without a brother like Pete, Simon would be a very big musical talent (and) probably more known than he is. Because again, he's overshadowed by Pete, and he's a supreme musician, Simon."

Daltrey performs tomorrow (November 24th) in North Charleston, South Carolina at the North Charleston Coliseum.

STEWART COPELAND RECALLS SHOWDOWN WITH STING ON POLICE TOUR…Over a year after the Police wrapped their reunion tour, Stewart Copeland revealed that his longtime problems with Sting carried over to the reunion dates. Copeland, who recently released his memoirs called Strange Things Happen, has returned to his "day job" scoring film and theatrical pieces, but shed some light on the tensions between him and Sting on the reunion tour, telling Mojo, "At one of the dreaded band meetings Sting gets Andy (Summers) lined up and they tell me I'm a liability, I'm screwing up. I say, 'Excuse me, have you read a single f***king review? Nobody says I'm playing too loud, too fast, too much. In fact, I have been singled out for praise because of my energy. So f***cking get off my back both of you, don't f***cking tell me to stop doing what I'm here to do."

Copeland recalled the night things came to a head between him and Sting -- who has always been overtly critical of Copeland's high-octane drum style: "We had our showdown in Singapore (on February 4th, 2008 -- the 100th gig) when I was able to say, 'Stingo, I am not your problem, you don't need to worry about whether I'm making too much noise, nobody else is worried about it. You may not like it, but that's because you think you're stuck with it. You're not. The end is near. But isn't this fun? Stop resisting it. Stop trying to change me and mold me into something you can use. You can't use me because I'm f***ing out of here! Don't worry.'"

He went on to add, "I'm actually very happy about it all. We had to go through this and I love my two colleagues and I understand where they're coming from and there's not a trace of bitterness now. It was about what hadn't been said that I wished I'd said -- I stopped playing drums for 10 years because I hadn't said it. So the glorious thing about the tour was it all got said."

Copeland says that after years of dealing with Sting and Andy Summers solely as friends as opposed to bandmates, it took them a while to fall back into the Police's usual tense, but natural groove: "It took us a while to get back to our formula, to appreciate our formula. And our formula is tension. And the formula is that we don't cut each other any slack. We challenge each other, we push each other into places where we normally wouldn't go, we're all out of comfort zone. And it took us while to appreciate that that's what makes the band rock. The fact that Sting plays harder and more aggressively with me behind him, and maybe I play a little less obnoxiously with him in front of me."

BEATLES NEWS ROUNDUP…Paul McCartney will make an appearance on ABC's Good Morning America on Thanksgiving Day (November 26th) to promote that night's hour-long prime time special Good Evening New York City. The special, which features highlights from his newly-released DVD, will air at 10 p.m. ET/PT on ABC-TV. Good Evening New York City includes performances from McCartney's historic opening gigs at New York's Citi Field last July.

During the program McCartney will recall the summer 2009 shows, as well as the Beatles' 1965 and 1966 concerts at the Mets' former home -- Shea Stadium. The "Fab Four's" historic 1965 Shea concert will be represented with vintage footage and rare audio. (Maccareport.com)

The next night, McCartney and surviving Beatle bandmate Ringo Starr will appear on VH1 Classics' The Making Of The Beatles: Rock Band. The 30-minute special features the former "Fabs" talking about the game at London's Abbey Road Studios, along with George Martin's son Giles Martin -- who served as the music supervisor for The Beatles: Rock Band. Also featured is Alex Rigopulos, who's the co-founder and CEO of Harmonix Music Systems which produced the game in conjunction with the Beatles' company Apple Corps. (Crispygamer.com)

The Making Of The Beatles: Rock Band premieres on Friday (November 27th) on VH1 Classic at 7:30 p.m. ET/PT.

That’s it for now, as always, if you can’t be good, be good at it and don’t get caught!!

Jonathan

Thursday - November 19, 2009 -

noreply@blogger.com (Jonathan Knight) — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 17:25:00 +0000

TODAY IS

Jodie Foster turns 47 today. Just for laughs, friends have arranged for a lamb to scream "Happy Birthday" to her later tonight.

Meg Ryan celebrates birthday #48. I'll still have what she's having.

THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW

Rapper T.I. says he's going to marry his fiancee next year... after he gets out of prison. Lucky girl.

Katharine McPhee will be performing songs from her new album at Macy's Herald Square in New York today.

PETA has complained to Sesame Street about the show being by The Egg Board.

An entertainment law firm is suing Rod Stewart for $3.3 million, saying that's what he owes them.

The 20th annual "America's Health" ratings are in and Vermont is our country's "healthiest state."

California's Department of Parks and Recreation has started cracking down on the state's few "nude beaches."

The San Diego zoo has named their new Panda cub Yun Zi, which is Chinese for "Son of Cloud."

People Magazine's Sexiest Man Alive title goes to Johnny Depp.

Amy Winehouse has spent three nights in a hospital, after taking a cold medication that didn't mix well with something else she was taking.

Carrie Underwood says she's not moving in with boyfriend Mike Fisher. She says the next guy she's going to live with is going to be her husband

THINGS THAT MAKE YOU GO HMMM……

It's illegal for women to wear pants in Paris, France. Wait...what? The law has been on the books since 1800, and it's survived numerous attempts at repeal. The UK Telegraph reports that the law states the women are banned from dressing like men, namely by wearing pants. The law stipulates that any Parisienne wishing to dress like a man "must present herself to Paris' main police station to obtain authorization." In 1892, it was amended to allow a woman to wear trousers "as long as the woman is holding the reins of a horse." It was further watered down in 1909, when the city allowed women to wear pants if they were "on a bicycle or holding it by the handlebars."

A new survey shows that when the chips are down, consumers seek out crispy snacks made from potatoes a 22% increase in the past two years alone. Salty snacks are considered to be more popular now because they fit Americans' new cost saving behaviors, such as staying home to watch TV instead of going out, and taking lunch to work instead of chowing down at restaurants. "If people are staying home and watching TV, then they're grabbing a pack of chips or a bag of popcorn," says Bill Patterson, a senior analyst at the market research company, Mintel. And it's not just potato chips folks are craving. Tortilla chips have also soared in sales by 18%, while popcorn and cheese snack sales skyrocketed by 17% and 20%. Adds Patterson: "This may reflect our growing need for affordable treats as a form of recession relief." (National Examiner)

INTERESTING….

(Cosmopolitan) The football quarterback. The high stakes attorney. The hedge fund entrepreneur. What do they all possess? Alpha male traits that women are conditioned to desire: uberconfidence, aggressiveness, and status. But, says Tina Tessina, Ph.D., author of "The Unofficial Guide to Dating Again," "while these types of guys can be great supporters financially, they may not lend as much emotionally because they are focused on themselves and their own achievements." The counterparts on the machismo spectrum, of course, are the beta males. "Personality wise, they tend to be laid back, even tempered, and gently assertive," says psychologist Yvonne Thomas, Ph.D. "They're comfortable with a teamwork approach instead of having to be in control all the time." And while they may never rise to be the CEO of a company, these sensitive dudes are more inclined to put friends, family and significant others before career ladder climbing. For this reason, they complement powerful women well. They're not threatened by your intelligence or how much money you make, which is often the root of trouble when an alpha female is in a relationship with an alpha male. So how do you tell the difference?

1. On your first day, he takes you: Alpha male, paintballing. Beta male, pumpkin picking.
2. He never fails to give you: Alpha male, butterflies. Beta male, support.
3. After playing mini golf, he: Alpha male, snarls at you for winning. Beta male, high-fives you for winning.
4. His favorite Wii game is: Alpha male, Resident Evil. Beta male, Mario Kart.
5. His favorite superhero is: Alpha male, Batman. Beta male, Superman.

Scientists are about to begin human trials on a revolutionary contact lens that can project text and images right onto the eyeball. Superficially, the lens looks like any other contact lens, but it's packed with electronic circuits that transform it into a tiny viewing screen that fits comfortably on the surface of the eye. Power is provided wirelessly from a transmitter in the user's pocket. Minuscule light emitting diodes (LEDs) form a grid on the lens that can project Internet pages and text and images of all kinds. The lens is specially designed to permit the eye to focus on a very close up object. When the bugs have been worked out, information can be transmitted directly to the lens you won't have to mess with external devices like cell phone displays or computer screens. The invention has been called the biggest revolution since the advent of the printing press. (Sun)

WEIRD NEWS

Facebook Gives Us the New Word of the Year! - You can thank Facebook for giving us the New Oxford American Dictionary's Word of the Year! That would be the word "unfriend" -- defined as "To remove someone as a 'friend' on a social networking site such as Facebook." Christine Lindberg, a language researcher for Oxford's U.S. dictionary, said, "In the online social networking context, its meaning is understood, so its adoption as a modern verb form makes this an interesting choice for Word of the Year." There had been some debate about whether "defriend" was the more commonly used term, especially on Facebook. However, Oxford spokesman Christian Purdy said researchers found "unfriend" was more common. Other new words that topped this year's list included "sexting," the sending of sexual texts and "intexticated," being distracted by texting while driving. (Ananova)

Beware the Geezer Bandit! - FBI officials in the San Diego area are baffled by a bank robber who has been dubbed "The Geezer Bandit." The nickname refers to the suspect's aged which is believed to be over 70. He is described as elderly, thin and gray-haired and has successfully held up five San Diego County banks since August 28. Law enforcement officials are offering $16,000 in rewards for information that leads to the Geezer Bandit's arrest and conviction. (myway.com)

Did You Get Married In Texas? Maybe You Didn't! - Bad news married Texans. You may not be. Barbara Ann Radnofsky, a Houston lawyer and candidate for attorney general, says that a 22-word clause in a 2005 constitutional amendment designed to ban gay marriages has inadvertently endangered the legal status of all marriages in the state. The amendment, overwhelmingly ratified by Texas voters, declares that "marriage in this state shall consist only of the union of one man and one woman." But it goes on to say, "This state or a political subdivision of this state may not create or recognize any legal status identical or similar to marriage" and therein lies the problem. Radnofsky says that phrase and wording effectively "eliminates all marriage in Texas," including common-law marriages. She calls it a "massive mistake" and blames the current attorney general, Greg Abbott, for allowing the language to become part of the Texas Constitution. She also says that another constitutional amendment may be necessary to reverse the problem. However not everyone agrees. Kelly Shackelford, president of the Liberty Legal Institute in Plano says, "It's a silly argument. Any lawsuit based on the wording of the section in question would have about one chance in a trillion of being successful." (Star Telegram)

Boy I Am Really, Really Bored! How Could I Spice Up My Night? - In Redding, California, two men were arrested -- one accused of trying to break into Northern California Recycling -- and another who simply tried to look like the guy who did! 23-year-old Matthew Padel led police on an hour-long chase which ended with his capture in a residential neighborhood. But while this was going on, 41-year-old Russell Spade was listening in on his police scanner and heard that officers were looking for a man wearing khaki pants and a San Francisco 49ers sweatshirt. So Mr. Spade wondered if the police would notice him if he went outside wearing the same outfit as the suspect. Well guess what -- they did! And they arrested him. They later realized Spade did not fit the description of suspect except for the clothes he was wearing but charged him anyway with suspicion of obstructing and delaying a police officer. (The Record Searchlight)

America Can Boast New Rock Paper Scissors Champ! - One more reason to be proud you're an American -- we own Rock Paper Scissors! Tim Conrad of Michigan has won the world Rock Paper Scissors championship in Toronto, clinching the victory after five hours of play and nine matches! Amazingly he faced off against his best friend for the championship in what became the first all-American final in championship history. And Tim did us proud dressing as Captain America during the competition to honor his home country. He gets $7,000 in prize money. The annual competition is organized by the World Rock Paper Scissors Society. Yes -- there is such a thing as the World Rock Paper Scissors Society! (myway.com)

This Is Over The Top -- Even For PETA! - Fundamentally I believe in the humane and ethical treatment of animals. But here's where PETA loses me. The People For the Ethical Treatment of Animals wanted to fill 3,500 buckets with pig urine and waste, set the buckets on the U.S. Capitol plaza and then, for several days, use fans to waft the scent across the Hill. Amazingly the U.S. Capitol Police said no. This display was PETA's way of protesting how the animals are treated in big corporate hog farms. The Capitol Police said their reasoning for declining the offer was that pigs a) have potentially unhealthy effluent and b) could spread swine flu. This didn't sit well with Democratic Rep. Bob Etheridge of North Carolina, the nation's No. 2 pork-producing state, after Iowa. Etheridge is a part-time farmer who raised piglets as a child and wrote the Capitol Police a stern missive last week that read: "I was extremely disturbed. Pig farms already suffer because of erroneous concerns that eating pork spreads swine flu. Coming in contact with pigs is not a significant risk factor for contracting the novel H1N1 flu. And it is not possible to get it by eating pork or pork products." He concluded by saying, "Pork products are not only very safe, but also very tasty." (AHN News)

Teacher Puts Out a Hit On Student! - We've heard disturbing stories of teachers hitting on high school students. But Randolph Forde, who teaches at Mundy's Mill High School in Clayton County Georgia, has been accused of putting out a "hit" on a 16-year-old student! He's been charged with making terroristic threats and is currently on administrative leave from his job with pay. He faces an employment hearing next month. The incident reportedly happened on October 9th when Forde allegedly took a student off a school bus and told him he "would pay him to kill the victim." When the student asked who the target would be, Forde allegedly held a piece of paper up with the victim's name on it. As for the targeted victim, "Forde allegedly called that student outside his class back in September and asked him if he was gay. The two had an argument in class and Forde threatened "to hit him in his 'effin mouth" according to the victim's attorney. The targeted victim's mother eventually took her son out of the school. (CNN)

Oh Give Us A Break Mattel! - Not quite sure what the folks from Mattel are thinking on this one. The company has already started accepting pre-orders for the April 2010 release of the newest doll in the Barbie/Ken line. It's the spiffily dressed "Palm Beach Sugar Daddy Ken." Apparently Sugar Daddy Ken is to be showcased with a much younger, trophy-type Barbie. Really? Seriously? This is what we want our kid's playing with? What's next -- Ponzi Scheme Ken? (EntertainmentEarth.com)

TOP FIVE SIGNS YOUR PET TURKEY KNOWS THANKSGIVING IS NEXT WEEK

1. Wearing that pin that says, "Tofu rules"
2. Has learned to meow
3. Keeps leaving brochures around about "The Turkey Flu"
4. Auto-reply on Outlook says "Out of town until after Thanksgiving"
5. Wearing t-shirt that says, "H1N1 rules"

HUNTER'S HUMOR by Tim Hunter

President Obama has visited China's Great Wall... of course, the place for which Wal-Mart is named.

Researchers say that the amount of "bad cholesterol" in U.S. adults actually dropped over the past decade. I don't know about you, but I say this calls for a donut!

I wonder if they'd believe me at work if I told them the ancient Mayan calendar predicted I would take this day off?

President Obama says he probably won't be reading Sarah Palin's new book. Former President Bush says he won't be reading it, either, but he'll most likely color the pictures.

Some people are upset that President Obama bowed to the Emperor of Japan. Hey, he was just observing official protocol. Like the time Bush senior threw up in the lap of the Japanese prime minister. In that country, it's considered polite.

Disneyland has installed hand sanitizer in their theme parks, to help combat the spread of swine flu. They've also removed all restrictions on the Big Bad Wolf when it comes to those three little pigs.

CT scans of some mummies show that ancient Egyptians also suffered hardening of the arteries and heart disease. This might also explain why they always kill so many people when they're brought back to life.

I just realized that Carrie Prejean is one of those classic examples of one hand not wanting to know what the other one is doing!

On to ROCK NEWS –

SLASH DEFENDS FERGIE SINGING 'PARADISE CITY'…Slash took to Twitter to defend Black Eyed Peas singer Fergie's vocal performance on a new recording she did with Slash of the Guns N' Roses classic "Paradise City," also featuring Cypress Hill. A leaked copy of the recording surfaced online last week, while Slash is contemplating whether to include it on his new solo album. The former Guns guitarist tweeted, "Until now, not too many people have heard Fergie sing Rock & Roll but she sings it better (than) most dudes I know. She's a screamer at heart."

The record, titled Slash & Friends, is tentatively due out in March 2010.

Among the other guests appearing on the album are Dave Grohl, Flea, Chris Cornell, Duff McKagan, Wolfmother's Andrew Stockdale, Iggy Pop, Alice Cooper, Nicole Scherzinger, Meat Loaf, Maroon 5's Adam Levine and Ozzy Osbourne, who contributes vocals to the first single.

Slash "and friends" will perform at a fundraiser for the Los Angeles Youth Nation at Hollywood's Avalon Theater on November 22nd. Ozzy, Billy Idol, Andrew Stockdale, Linkin Park's Chester Bennington, Dave Navarro and Travis Barker are all tentatively slated to appear.

PAUL STANLEY REMEMBERS KISS FOUND IT HARD CLOSING AFTER BOB SEGER…Paul Stanley says that although Kiss has always been impressed with the band's choices of opening acts, back in the day it was Bob Seger and the Silver Bullet Band who really gave Kiss a run for their money.

Stanley recalls that during Seger's stint opening for the band in 1976, he set the bar pretty high for Kiss to follow every night: "Bob got his first gold album on tour with us. And there were nights, where I can remember being in the dressing room and listening to the crowd reaction, and looking at the band and saying (laughs) 'We better go out there and kick some ass.' Bob was no nonsense great rock and roll, and the band delivered the goods, and the crowd went crazy. And that always made us work harder. We always wanted great bands on the bill because it made us prove why we were the headliner."

Kiss with Buckcherry tour dates (subject to change):

November 19 - Sacramento, CA - ARCO Arena
November 21 - Fresno, CA - Save Mart Center
November 22 - Oakland, CA - Oracle Arena
November 24 - Anaheim, CA - Honda Center
November 25 - Los Angeles, CA - Staples Center
November 27 - San Diego, CA - San Diego Sports Arena
November 28 - Las Vegas, NV - Pearl Concert Theater
December 1 - Glendale, AZ - Jobing.com Arena
December 2 - El Paso, TX - University Of Texas
December 4 - Austin, TX - Frank Erwin Center
December 5 - Houston, TX - Toyota Center
December 6 - Dallas, TX - American Airlines Center
December 8 - Tulsa, OK - BOK Center
December 10 - Kansas City, MO - Sprint Center
December 11 - Council Bluffs, IA - Mid-America Center
December 13 - Pittsburgh, PA - Mellon Arena
December 15 - Sault Ste. Marie, ON - Essar Centre

BON JOVI LANDS NUMBER ONE ALBUM…Bon Jovi tops the charts this week with its new album, The Circle, which sold 163,000 copies. It's Bon Jovi's second consecutive chart-topper, coming on the heels of 2007's Lost Highway, which sold 292,000 in its first week and marked the first time Bon Jovi ever debuted at Number One on the charts. The group has had chart-topping albums prior to that -- first in 1986 with Slippery When Wet and then in 1988 with New Jersey. Frontman Jon Bon Jovi tells us he and the band have come a long way since scoring their first Number One album: "You know when I was 25 and we wrote 'Bad Name,' you were the kid with long hair in the mall -- sex, drugs, rock and roll. All that kind of stuff. You were a cowboy. You were gonna ride into town. You were dead or alive. That's who I was at that time. I'm not that guy anymore. I've grown up in the public eye. We've been at this a long time."

Bon Jovi will be on tour next year to back The Circle.

Bon Jovi set up an exclusive deal with NBC this year to plug the new album.

The group expects to have a greatest hits album out next year.

DON HENLEY NOT SURE IF U.S. CAN BE GOVERNED ANYMORE…Don Henley says that he's not sure if in the current political climate real progress can be accomplished in America. When asked by ifpress.com how he feels about the Obama administration, he explained, "In its present condition, with its rabidly partisan, corporate-controlled congress; its biased, infotainment-obsessed, ratings-driven news media -- which is now being supplanted by amateurs on the Web -- and its chronically uninformed and bitterly divided electorate, I'm not sure that the U.S. can be effectively led or governed by anybody, anymore."

When asked if like so many of his peers, he's ever thought about writing his memoirs, Henley explained, "Once in a while, I feel compelled to set the record straight but, most of the time, I just don't care. All that stuff has so little to do with my real, day-to-day life. I would eventually like to write my autobiography, and maybe a separate book with a more detailed account of my life in the Eagles."

Henley went to say, "I'm not interested in penning a tawdry tell-all or scraping the bottom of the barrel. That's already been done. I'd like to write an honest, literary account of my life, where I came from, how I got to where I am today and what the trip was like. I've had a varied and interesting life, both inside and outside the Eagles."

Although Henley has never shied away from keeping his liberal political views front and center when dealing with the press, both he and the rest of the Eagles try to keep their comments non-partisan on the stage: "We have found over the years that a concert is not necessarily the forum for one's political opinions. We do most of that work now separate and apart from our concert tours."

Out now is CD/DVD The Very Best Of Don Henley. The tracklist is: "Dirty Laundry," "The Boys Of Summer," "All She Wants To Do Is Dance," "Not Enough Love In The World," "Sunset Grill," "The End Of The Innocence," "The Last Worthless Evening," "New York Minute," "I Will Not Go Quietly," "The Heart Of The Matter," "Everybody Knows," "For My Wedding," "Everything Is Different Now," and "Taking You Home."

Don Henley wraps up his latest set of solo dates on Friday (November 20th) in Norfolk, Virginia at the Constant Convocation Center.

LENNY KRAVITZ EYES LEADING MOVIE ROLE…Lenny Kravitz currently has a supporting role in the new movie, Precious, but next time around, he plans to not just appear in a film, but actually be the star. Kravitz will team up once again with Precious director Lee Daniels for an unnamed project. He tells Spinner.com that they're in talks and aren't sure what they're doing just yet. But one thing is for sure -- he'll be the major player in the film, explaining, "I'm going to be doing a film and this time I'm going to be in the lead position. It's going to be a lot of responsibility and a lot of time -- it's very exciting." There are rumors Kravitz could get involved in a musical. Kravitz also plans to put out new material in 2010, saying, "I'm really anxious to get in the studio and finish this record. I'm gonna go in the studio and lock myself up for two months and see how it all comes out."

QUICK TAKES…Rod Stewart is being sued by his former attorneys for $3.3 million in back legal fees. The high-profile legal firm of Glaser, Weil, Fink, Jacobs, Howard & Shapiro filed suit against Stewart on Tuesday (November 17th) in Los Angeles. The suit claims that Stewart owes them money for three separate cases they worked on -- include Stewart's cancellation of a 2000 Las Vegas show in which a federal jury deemed Stewart responsible for the $2 million fee. (The Associated Press)

Bruce Springsteen performed solo on Tuesday night (November 17th) at New York's Carnegie Hall for the Concert For Autism, which was co-headlined by Jerry Seinfeld. Springsteen, who was considerably under-dressed compared to the top shelf-looking crowd joked, "I'm sorry, ladies and gentlemen, I must apologize. Apparently I'm a little under-dressed.I thought it was Carnegie Deli. Sorry. . . I see some high rollers out there. Forgive me. . . Ehhh, whatever."

Springsteen performed "No Surrender," "If I Should Fall Behind," "Working On The Highway," as well as a set-closing crowd request for "Thunder Road." (Backstreets.com)

The original members of Bad Company -- Paul Rodgers, Mick Ralphs, and Simon Kirke -- will reunite in April for a string of eight UK dates. The shows mark the first UK appearance of the band's original members in over 30 years. Supporting them on all of the dates will be the Joe Perry Project. The opening show will take place on April 1st at the Birmingham LG Arena, with the mini-tour wrapping up on April 11th at Wembley Arena.

Mick Ralphs said in a statement: It's great to be with Paul and Simon. We made great music together and had the time of our lives doing it. I'm really looking forward to us bringing Bad Company back to the UK."

Although no details were given, it was announced that a new Bad Company live CD/DVD set is set for release on February 9th.

That’s it for now, as always, if you can’t be good, be good at it and don’t get caught!!

Jonathan

Wednesday - November 18, 2009 -

noreply@blogger.com (Jonathan Knight) — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 16:27:00 +0000

ON THIS DAY

The Roman Emperor Vespasian was born on this date in 9 AD. Vespy was credited with building the Coliseum, where the Rome Red Sandals played their home games.

In 1307, it's said that William Tell shot an apple off of his son's head. Why an apple? A raisin was too small and a watermelon gave his son a stiff neck.

On this date in 1883, standard time zones were established across the entire U.S... so our entire population could complain about how dark it gets so early at the same time.

TODAY IS

Owen Wilson turns 41. He was the one Kate Hudson traded away for a player to be named later. That player turned out to be Alex Rodriguez. And he IS a player.

Mickey Mouse turns 81 today. Wow, 81 years on this earth and he's never worn a pair of pants.

THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW

Whitney Houston will perform next week on the finale of "Dancing with the Stars."

Brad and Angelina are coming out with their own line of designer jewelry.

Farah Fawcett left $4.5 million to her son, Redmond... but not one penny to her lover of many years, Ryan O'Neal.

Oops! The other night in a concert, Bruce Springsteen had shouted out several, "Hello, Ohio!"s until when his guitarist finally pointed out that they were in Michigan.

David Letterman is denying a report that his wife has kicked him out of the house.

A new study shows that college students drink more and more often in co-ed dorms than in gender-specific dorms.

The New Oxford Dictionary has chosen it's Word of the Year: "unfriend," as "I'm going to unfriend someone on Facebook."

51% of a typical American's annual weight gain occurs in the weeks between Thanksgiving and New Year's Day.

Window Media, the nation's largest publisher of newspapers serving the gay and lesbian community, has shut down.

A Scottish distiller is fronting the money for an expedition to the South Pole, to try and rescue two cases of Scotch that an explorer left buried in the ice 100 years ago.

One third of Saab dealers in the U.S. are going to close.

Last night, Joe Biden became the first sitting vice-president to appear on "The Daily Show."

Ken Ober, who hosted the 1980s MTV game show "Remote Control" and helped produce the shows "Mind of Mencia" and "The New Adventures of Old Christine," has died. He was 52.

Pamela Anderson has introduced a new budget fragrance line. The first two scents are Malibu Blue and Malibu Pink.

You won't be finding an Coke products at Costco. A pricing dispute broke out, so they're gone.

Chris Brown says he's avoiding the whole dating thing... for now.

The New Oxford American Dictionary has declared the word of the year is "unfriend." It's a verb. As in: "You were so mean to my sister yesterday, I'm going to unfriend you on Facebook." Want more? Here are ten words kids think you don't know.

1. Netbook: a small laptop computer
2. Sexting: sending sexually explicit texts and photos by cell phone
3. Hashtag: the hash sign added to a word or phrase that lets Twitter users search for tweets similarly tagged
4. Intexticated: the state people are in when they are distracted by texting while driving
5. Freemium: a business model in which some basic services are provided for free
6. Funemployed: referring to people taking advantage of newly unemployed status to have fun or pursue other interests
7. Birther: conspiracy theorists who challenged President Barack Obama's U.S. birth certificate
8. Choice mom: a person who chooses to be a single mother
9. Deleb: a dead celebrity
00. Tramp stamp: a tattoo on the lower back, usually on a woman

WEIRD NEWS

I'm Smarter Than You Mr. Robber! - Whoever just robbed Henry's Jewelers in Toledo, Ohio is going to be in for a big shock. All those gold rings you stole are worth about 25 cents apiece. Owner Henry Triplett says oh sure -- they looked to be worth thousands of dollars. But the "gold" rings in his display case are actually just brass dummies-- mere samples of the real gold rings he keeps safely locked up and out of view. So the real cost of the robbery will only be the expense of replacing his store's front window and the shattered glass on 13 display cases. (WTVG-TV News)

That Loogey Is Gonna Cost You! - It's surely not the first time a burger flipper spit on a burger. But when Jaime Perez, a cook at Andy's Landing in Burnet, Texas did it, he picked the wrong victim. He's accused of spitting on a hamburger served to Burnet Police Chief Paul Nelson and already confessed on tape to doing the deed. His attorney says that was just his client mouthing off and that prosecutors have no physical evidence. But the case is going to trial and Mr. Perez's little saliva stunt could cost him 10 years in prison! That's the possible penalty for harassing a public servant -- a felony. Prosecutors claim the motive was ill feelings Perez had for Chief Nelson because of a previous criminal case. (American Statesman)

A Pencil?? Seriously?? - In Bellingham, Washington, one man may have just thrown his life away for a free pencil! Police arrested the 44-year-old suspect for allegedly stealing a mechanical pencil from a department store. This despite the fact that he was carrying $600 in cash on him at the time! Officers questioned the man about why he stole the pencil when he had enough money to pay for it. The suspect just responded, "I don't know, being stupid I guess." (Bellingham Herald)

Man Run Over By Car Doing 85 -- In His Own Home! - You don't really expect to be run over by a car doing 85 miles-per-hour -- especially when you're in your own home! But that's what happened to 62-year-old Frederic Bardsley in Greenville, South Carolina. John Ludwig was allegedly driving more than 85 mph when he lost control of his Maserati. The car sped across a field before plowing into the back of Mr. Bardsley's home. Bardsley was killed. His wife, who was upstairs, was unhurt. Ludwig suffered only minor injuries. Ludwig's attorneys claim their client lost control of the vehicle after swerving to miss several deer. (WMBF TV News)

Bad, Bad PR For Allentown Union! - Hey unions -- we know times are tough but not sure you want to make a point by picking on potential Eagle Scouts! In Allentown, Pennsylvania, 17-year-old Kevin Anderson is working toward earning his Eagle Scout badge and has toiled for more than 200 hours over several weeks to clear a 1,000-foot walking and biking path at a local city park. But that doesn't sit too well with the city's largest municipal union. Nick Balzano, president of the local Service Employees International Union, told the Allentown City Council that the union is considering filing a grievance against the city for allowing young Kevin to do the work rather than hire union workers -- 39 of which were laid off last July. Balzano said he isn't targeting Boy Scouts but "there's to be no volunteers. No one except union members may pick up a hoe or shovel, plant a flower or clear a walking path." Mayor Ed Pawlowski said, "We would hope that the well-intentioned efforts of an Eagle Scout candidate would not be challenged by the union. This young man is performing a great service to the community. His efforts should be recognized as such." (The Morning Call)

Stop Praising Your Students! It's Against The Law You Stupid Teacher! - In Northfield, Minnesota, a high school teacher is in hot water after he posted the names and grades of students with the best test scores. He thought it was a good way to praise his high fliers and motivate the rest. Turns out it's against the law and the Minnesota Department of Administration agreed with a parent who complained that posting her son's test results in class for all to see was a violation of state law protecting student data. According to experts in education law, it's generally OK for schools to announce who makes the honor roll or graduates with the highest class rank. But revealing a student's specific grade on a class test without written permission is a no-no. Really? Has it come to this? I'd be proud to have my kid's good grades posted publicly! Then I could go get me one of those awesome bumper stickers that says my kid's smarter than your kid! (Star Tribune)

I'm Half the Man I Used To Be! - 37-year-old Peng Shuilin has shocked his own doctors and the medical community at large after surviving having the entire lower half of his body amputated! This after a horrible accident where he was run over by a truck. Peng spent nearly two years in hospital in Shenzhen, southern China, undergoing a series of operations to re-route nearly every major organ or system inside his body. And what an amazing outlook this guy has. He's now opened his own discount supermarket called the Half Man-Half Price Store. Now, just 2-feet 7-inches tall, he gets around in a wheelchair and gives lectures to inspire others recovering from disabilities. Bujie Hospital vice president Lin Liu said, "He had good care but his secret is his cheerfulness. Nothing ever gets him down!" (Ananova)

How To Make A Sissy! - Watch out pregnant moms! Researchers from the University of Rochester have found that boys born from mothers exposed to high levels of plastic chemicals during their pregnancy are less likely to play with masculine toys and rough and tumble games. Nice way of saying they become sissies! The researchers link the chemicals DEHP and DBP, which are still used in plastic packaging, to the disruption of the creation of testosterone in male fetuses. Based on the answers from the mothers in the research project, their boys ages 4 – 7, less prefer playing with cars, trucks and guns. The boys also less prefer play fighting. The result of the study is worrying because less masculine play at age five to seven may make boys effeminate later on -- and we don't want that now do we! (AHN News)

TOP FIVE SIGNS YOUR FOOTBALL TEAM HAS GIVEN UP ON THE PLAYOFFS THIS YEAR

1. Team flag is now white
2. Cheerleaders only stay for pre-game show
3. New team rule: don't get your uniform dirty
4. Two main receivers out after broken fingernail injury
5. Offensive line now selling sacks

HUNTER'S HUMOR by Tim Hunter

President Obama has lots of meeting with Chinese leaders lined up. Hu's on first, Wang's on second, Ida Ho's on third...

The NFL has fined Tennessee Titans owner Bud Adams $250,000 for making an obscene gesture at Buffalo Bills fans. That breaks down to $125,000 a finger!

You'd think as an owner and with his financial means that Bud would have hired someone to flip off the crowd for him. I know it would have cost less than $250,000.

Hell, I would have done it for a flat $100,000. Bud, I'm available this weekend.

Earthquake yesterday west of Vancouver, British Columbia. It was 6.6 on the Richter, minus, of course, the exchange rate.

On to ROCK NEWS –

BEATLES NEWS ROUNDUP…Former Beatles wives Cynthia Lennon and Pattie Boyd appeared together for the first time in decades on November 8th in Yerevan, Armenia for the grand opening of the Cafesjian Center for the Arts. The pair took part in a live interview with the museum's director and spoke openly about their lives while being married to John Lennon and George Harrison, respectively.
Boyd, who was married to Harrison from 1966 to 1977 -- and then Eric Clapton from 1979 to 1988 -- recalled her days of being caught up in "Beatlemania," revealing, "With a lot of help from a psychotherapist I have learned and am a much stronger person now. I am thankful to be free."

When Cynthia was asked about her favorite Beatles album, she answered: "They're all so different. It's here, there, and everywhere. But I think that Sgt. Pepper's (Lonely Hearts Club Band) was the most unbelievable album." (Reporter.am)
We asked Pattie Boyd of her impressions of Cynthia in the '60s while she was still married to John: "She wasn't very outgoing. She was in a difficult relationship. And I always thought the she found it quite difficult to try and control John, or, y'know, be with him."

On November 5th, original Beatles drummer Pete Best returned home to his native India and performed with his band in front of an estimated 250,000 people in Delhi. Best, who was born in Madras and lived in India until he was four, performed as part of a campaign to bring more tourists from India to Liverpool. Best explained, "Liverpool is my hometown. It is a great city with great people. I am proud and privileged to be able to travel the world and let people know what a unique and wonderful place Liverpool is." (Liverpool Daily Post)

Best says that he's long moved past dwelling on missing out on being the drummer for the biggest band in the world: "I put it to bed many, many years ago. Don't get me wrong it wasn't a 24-hour situation, it took a while to adjust to. But you've got to wake up one morning and just go, 'Hang on. It's no good reflecting about yesteryear all the time,' it's very much about today and tomorrow. And there's loads of things in life which compensate for it. I've got a great family. Great family life. I've got four beautiful grandchildren which I totally idolize and spoil. I think life's good for me."

As if there wasn't enough Beatles product to choose from this holiday season, MTV.com reported that the group's company, Apple Corps. has teamed up for new line of Beatles-themed garments with Comme des Garcons. The collaboration features a variety of t-shirts, bags and jackets, and will hit stores later this month.

Apple has also inked a deal with the ultra-hip clothing brand A Bathing Ape (Bape) to produce shirts, sweaters -- and of course -- a coin pouch. There's been no word when the "Beatles-Bape "collection" will hit outlets.

QUICK TAKES…The good news is Elton John is back on his feet and ready to resume his Face To Face Tour with Billy Joel -- the bad news is that now Billy's sick. The pair had to bail out of last night's concert (November 17th) at San Jose's Pavilion Arena due to Billy's undisclosed "medical reasons." Promoters are expected to announce a make-up date for the show soon. (Mercurynews.com)

Elton, meanwhile, is feeling much better after being laid low by a touch of the flu and an E. coli bacterial infection. On Monday (November 16th) he attended the Elton John AIDS Foundation's "An Enduring Vision" at New York City Cipriani Wall Street. Elton admitted that he loathes being sick: "The worst thing about being in the hospital was that, actually, it's the first time I've been in bed for about nine days in the whole of my life, except for maybe when I had my tonsils out. So, I was all right. I had a good rest; I didn't expect it. The worst thing was having to cancel shows. I hate that. But I'm back on my feet and I'm bouncing around now." (The Associated Press)

Ian McLagan says that the Faces are determined to hit the road next spring -- with or without Rod Stewart: "If we don't do it very soon, one of us is gonna check out. I'm 64, for chrissakes! We've been waiting and waiting for Rod to say yes; now he's finally said no. He's busy doing other sh**. So we're gonna do it."

McLagan added that an open lineup is fine by him, explaining, "I think it's more exciting, actually, with different singers, different bass players, maybe some other guests, another guitarist or whatever. (Saxophonist) Bobby Keys would probably sit in. It's more adventurous. It won't be the same old sh**."

Matel has just issued the new Barbie collector's series which pays tribute to the "Ladies of The 80's" -- featuring dolls of Joan Jett, Debbie Harry, and Cyndi Lauper. The dolls come with "clothes and accessories, a doll stand, and a certificate of authenticity." (Vintage Vinyl News)

JETHRO TULL ANNOUNCES NORTH AMERICAN SPRING DATES…Jethro Tull, featuring legendary frontman Ian Anderson, has announced the first nine-dates of the band's upcoming North American spring tour. The band kicks things off on June 4th at Miami's Bayfront Park Amphitheater, before wrapping things up on June 20th in Highland Park, Illinois at the Martin Theatre At Ravinia. Additional dates are expected to be announced.

Ian Anderson says that the band prides itself on keeping their setlists interesting for the Tull diehards without alienating the many casual fans catching the shows: "It's never the same from tour to tour. We're always having fun with some different old songs. You know, we try and switch 'em around. It's just that when we come back to visit a town again a couple a years later, you know, we really try and change 80 percent of the set. So things go in and out of the show all the time, and you can't please everybody all of the time. We just have to try and make sure that we cover 'the big picture' of Jethro Tull and make sure we play a selection of the stuff."

Jethro Tull tour dates (subject to change):
June 4 - Miami, FL - Bayfront Park Amphitheater
June 10 - Mashantucket, CT - Foxwoods Resort Casino
June 11 - Wantagh, NY - Nikon At Jones Beach Theater
June 12 - Atlantic City, NJ - Caesars Circus Maximus Theatre
June 13 - Holmdel, NJ - PNC Bank Arts Center
June 15 - Boston, MA - Bank Of America Pavilion
June 18 - Toronto, ON - The Molson Amphitheatre
June 19 - Windsor, ON - Caesars Windsor "The Colosseum"
June 20 - Highland Park, IL - Martin Theatre At Ravinia

BON JOVI PLANS GREATEST HITS FOR 2010…Bon Jovi had planned to release a greatest hits album this year, but the project got sidelined after the group came up with enough material for a brand new studio album, released last week. That doesn't mean the best-of set has been put on hold forever. Frontman Jon Bon Jovi says it will come out in 2010. Along with a few never-before-released songs, the compilation will also feature tracks not featured on Bon Jovi's 1994 Cross Road greatest hits. The New Jersey native tells us what we can expect on the new collection: "It'll be a new greatest hits because the last one was 15 years ago. It was '94. So you had everything from These Days forward. And what is this my fifth album in this decade? So at least six studio records and a solo thing. And then I'm sure you'll still end up having to put 'Living On A Prayer' on it but there won't be 'Runaway' on it. It won't have the early early stuff because we'll have had more hits since then."

Bon Jovi will be out with a new concert DVD on November 23rd called Live From Madison Square Garden.

Tickets are on sale for Bon Jovi's tour, set to kick off in 2010.

Bon Jovi's new album, The Circle, features the hit "We Weren't Born To Follow."

GUNS N' ROSES SETTING TICKET SALES RECORD . . .
IN KOREA…A Guns N' Roses concert scheduled for December 13th in Seoul, Korea -- the band's first gig ever in that country -- could set a new record for ticket sales in that nation, according to JoongAng Daily. Promoters said that tickets for the show, which is scheduled for a venue called the Olympic Park Gymnasium, are selling briskly, with representative Yvette Moon proclaiming on Monday (November 16th), "Ticket sales have already broken records set by other successful concerts we organized earlier in the year, like the Lady Gaga show this August."

According to the report, Korean music fans feeling neglected by major international music stars have been cheered in recent months by visits from A-list acts like Mariah Carey, Beyonce, Lady Gaga and Maroon 5.

The Guns N' Roses show is one of a handful of Asian gigs the band has planned, including stops in Taiwan and Japan. A Canadian trek is also set to begin on January 13th in Winnipeg.

Guns N' Roses has not played live since 2006 and has not done any concerts since the release last November of its long-delayed Chinese Democracy CD.

AEROSMITH GUITARIST THINKS STEVEN TYLER MIGHT BE BACK ON DRUGS…The Aerosmith drama continues as the rest of the band considers potentially moving forward without frontman Steven Tyler, amid rumors that the singer has gone back to the bad habits that nearly derailed him and the band in their early days. Aerosmith guitarist Brad Whitford doesn't count out the possibility that Tyler has lapsed back into using drugs, as he told us: "This guy has a tremendous history of drug abuse, and you have to be suspicious that this is something that is probably going on with him. I think that that's got to be a part of this irrational behavior, you know. You're supposed to -- people in recovery and stuff, if you're really doing it, it takes a lot of work. Historically or statistically, the majority of people in that situation don't make it. I have a feeling we might be looking at, you know, someone who's just really struggling very badly with this."

Tyler has been estranged from the band since August, when he fell from a stage in South Dakota and forced the group to cancel the rest of its summer tour.

The other members have revealed that Tyler has his own management, and that none of them have had any contact with him in months.

The singer told Classic Rock magazine several weeks ago that he wants to take two years off to work on "Brand Tyler."

Drummer Joey Kramer admits that the rest of the band aren't sure how to proceed, but says they all want to keep playing together: "You know, getting someone else is one of the questions. We all know that there's really no way to replace Steven, but we want to continue touring together. We even have a 40-year anniversary coming up and it's a milestone. We want to be able to celebrate it together and there's millions of fans out there that are dedicated to us."

Tyler joined guitarist Joe Perry onstage in New York last week while the latter was touring with his Joe Perry Project solo band, telling the crowd that he wasn't quitting Aerosmith. Perry, however, said after the show that the band's problems were far from over.

Both Perry and Kramer specifically declined to discuss the rumors about Tyler's drug use, although Kramer told us he hopes his bandmate "gets some help."

That’s it for now, as always, if you can’t be good, be good at it and don’t get caught!!

Jonathan

Tuesday - November 17, 2009 -

noreply@blogger.com (Jonathan Knight) — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 16:33:00 +0000

ON THIS DAY

On this date in 1794, Eli Terry took out the very first patent on a clock. It was about time!

In 1869, the Suez Canal opened. It got it's name from everyone asking "Su... ez... dis da canal?"

On this date in 1940, the Green Bay Packers became the first NFL team to travel by plane. They flew to New York to play the Jets, but since jets hadn't been invented yet, they just flew back to Green Bay.

In 1959, synthetic diamonds were made for the very first time. Of course, with them came the creation of artificial karats. Or, they ended being a girl's best fake friend.

On this date in 1968, NBC infuriated football fans when they cut away from a Jets-Raiders game to show the movie "Heidi." The Raiders ended up coming from behind and winning the game. Millions of people were in disbelief: the Raiders won a game?

TODAY IS

Thanksgiving is just one week from Thursday!

Rupaul turns 49 today. He'll blow out the candles on his cake using a cross-draft.

Danny Devito turns 65 today. C'mon, Danny stand up and take a bow. Oh, you are standing up... well, then take a bow!

Take A Hike Day -- Doctors say walking is the most important part of a healthy life! If you could manage to take 10,000 steps a day -- and you're most likely taking 5,000 steps already -- you will lower your blood pressure and significantly improve your overall health. And get this -- if you take a brisk 30-minute walk several times a week and your memory will improve even as you get older. Regular cardiovascular exercise and maintaining a healthy weight actually reduce the amount of brain tissue that is lost as we age. And losing less tissue may mean keeping more memories.

THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW

Rosie O'Donnell admits her former partner, Kelli Carpenter, had moved out of her house two years ago.

Who's going to take over for Diane Sawyer on "Good Morning, America"? Word is that George Stephanopoulos has the inside track.

Now we're hearing there are at least 30 nude photos and eight sex tapes (total) of former Miss California Carrie Prejean floating around out there.

November 23 is the final... and I do mean final... episode of "Jon and Kate Plus 8."

Alicia Keys, Leona Lewis and Barry and Robin Gibb of the Bee Gees, will perform tonight on "Dancing with the Stars."

US Weekly says the hottest stars in Hollywood these days are Jenna Fischer, Chris O'Donnell, Adam Lambert, Eliza Dushku and the cast of Fox's "Glee."

Edward Woodward, famous for his roles in "The Wicker Man" and "The Equalizer" has died at age 79.

Courtney Cox says she'll be back for "Scream 4"... in the works, as we speak.

WHERE ARE THE WORST LOVERS IN THE WORLD -

The worst lovers live in Germany. That's the word from a survey conducted by the global research Web site OnePoll.com, which asked 15,000 women from 20 countries to rate the men from those 20 nations on their ability in bed.

The world's worst lovers ranked:

1. Germany, too smelly
2. England, too lazy
3. Sweden , too quick
4. Holland, too dominating
5. America, too rough
6. Greece, too lovey-dovey
7. Wales, too selfish
8. Scotland, too loud
9. Turkey, too sweaty
10. Russia, too hairy

The world's best lovers ranked:

1. Spain
2. Brazil
3. Italy
4. France
5. Ireland
6. South Africa
7. Australia
8. New Zealand
9. Denmark
10. Canada

WEIRD NEWS

Let's Play The Family Feud! - So how much fighting goes on in your house? A new study by research company Uinvue says the average family will spend 91 hours a year fighting and arguing. Fights flare up as much as three times a day, usually lasting for around five minutes. The most common arguments are over household chores, children "treating the house like a hotel", and couples taking each other for granted. 3,000 families took part in the research and it was interesting to note that the mother seems to still play the most pivotal role within the family when it comes to resolving conflicts. However the results do show that dads are getting far more involved. Daughters were most likely to slam doors during an argument, while fathers preferred to go for a long drive to cool off. But it's not the arguing that tears families apart -- it's how they deal with their disagreements. Families who promote healthy resolve to conflicts can actually realize a positive effect on family members. On the other hand, one in ten of the families surveyed said they were not on speaking terms. (Telegraph)

The Latest H1N1 Victims: Hand Puppets! - Looks like the stuffed animals and hand puppet industry may be the latest casualty of H1N1. In Minneapolis, Hennepin County libraries say plush toys and hand puppets will no longer be available for checkout or play, partly because of H1N1 flu concerns. Puppets have been available at less than half of the 41 libraries in the suburbs and in Minneapolis and some are allowed to be checked out. And while there's no way to know if anyone has gotten ill through the puppets, the libraries are sensitive to the real threat and public sense that puppets might be germy. So for now the kids will only have toys that can easily wiped down. (The Post Bulletin)

Shocker: Kids of Lesbians Better Off Than Kids of Heterosexuals! - This will be quite a surprise for some. The National Academy for Parenting Practitioners has new research that shows children from lesbian couples do better in life than the offspring of heterosexual couples. Director Stephen Scott said flat out, "Lesbians make better parents than a man and a woman." His controversial position draws backing from research that suggests children with two female parents aspire for more than those with opposite-sex parents. The study also says kids of lesbians are no more or less likely to have tendencies towards homosexuality. The research was conducted jointly by Birkbeck College in London and Clark University in Massachusetts. One theory for the results is that with same-sex couples children cannot be conceived accidentally-- parents must make an active decision to adopt or find a sperm donor. (Telegraph)

You're Kidding Right Mr. Corrupt Policeman? - In Stoughton, Massachusetts, former police sergeant David M. Cohen has filed for over $100,000 in compensation from the town for overtime and time spent away from his job in court. Of course the reason he was in court was because he was on trial for attempted extortion! Cohen, who was released from prison on a stay of his sentence last month, filed the request through his attorney. He's seeking $113,000, which includes 87 accrued vacation days, 125 unused sick days, 144 hours of compensation time accrued for not using sick time, 152 hours of supervisor comp time, 481 hours for court appearances related to his criminal case, 280 hours of overtime to prepare for his case, at least 61 percent education incentive pay for 2007, and 61 percent for accrued stipends and benefits. Cohen was found guilty on four criminal charges in Norfolk Superior Court stemming from his role in the 2002 arrest of a former Stoughton businessman to collect a debt as a lawyer for a friend. Town Manager Mark S. Stankiewicz said he has received the letter from Cohen's lawyer and "we will reject the man's request." (The Enterprise)

That Must Be Some Darn Good Whiskey! - The Whyte & Mackay beverage company of New Zealand is going to quite a bit of effort and expense to recover two crates of vintage whiskey. They've hired a team to drill through Antarctica to recover the booze that has literally been on ice for 100 years. The two crates of McKinlay and Co. whiskey were shipped to the Antarctic by British polar explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton as part of his abandoned 1909 expedition. Workers from New Zealand's Antarctic Heritage Trust will use special drills to reach the crates, frozen in Antarctic ice under the Nimrod Expedition hut near Cape Royds. Restoration workers found the crates under the hut's floorboards in 2006. At the time, the crates and bottles were too deeply embedded in ice to be dislodged. Richard Paterson, Whyte & Mackay's master blender, said the Shackleton expedition's whiskey could still be drinkable and taste exactly as it did 100 years ago. If he can get a sample, he intends to replicate the old Scotch and put McKinlay whiskey back on sale. (myway.com)

Another Why Didn't I Think of That? - In China, 67-year-old Li Rongbiao sold his apartment to fund his dream of creating a wheelchair that can climb stairs. And he's done it! Li came up with the idea after his wife broke her leg and was confined to a wheel chair. He says, "It used to take us a good half an hour to walk downstairs from our fifth floor apartment to the ground floor after her injury." So, despite a complete lack of mechanical knowledge, Li bought a lot of books, spent half a year to learn the computer designing, and then another half a year to design the wheelchair. With one charge, his foldable electric wheelchair can climb nearly 3,000 steps-- the equivalent of 50 floors. The prototype requires somebody to use minimal force to help maneuvered it but Li says the next version will be able to climb stairs unassisted. He has already been awarded two patents for his invention and is now looking for partners to help him market it commercially. (West China City Daily)

It's My Lord and Savior's Fault! - In Louisville, Kentucky, police were performing a home check on Craig A. Dunn, who was under house arrest, when they found a tube of aluminum foil burnt on one end and a spoon with burn marks and possible drug residue. When questioned about the items, Dunn said they weren't his-and told police that the spoon and foil belonged to Jesus, who he maintains is trying to set him up. Amazingly officers didn't buy the story and Dunn now faces more charges of possession of drug paraphernalia. No charges have been filed against the Lord. (AHN News)

TOP FIVE SIGNS YOUR NEIGHBORS WORK IN THE CIRCUS

1. The most obvious sign -- bearded Avon lady
2. Kids always outside walking on telephone wires
3. During winter, posts sign that says, "Greatest snow on earth!"
4. That clown family that visited them last night and that little teeny car
5. Elephant droppings in the front yard

HUNTER'S HUMOR by Tim Hunter

The movie "2012" was a huge box office hit over the weekend... just like the ancient Mayan calendar predicted.

The Who is going to perform during halftime of the next Superbowl game, February 7th. They do a medley of "CSI show" theme songs.

Santa is already showing up at a lot of the malls. Last Wednesday, he was even in a few places wearing his red flack jacket for Veterans Day.

President Obama is in China to meet with that country's leaders. In other words, it's a stockholders meeting.

I'm planning to watch an old episode of "Bonanza" tonight, because it's the one show on TV this week where Sarah Palin doesn't appear.

SLUMBER SPEAK REVEALS PERSONALITY

The way you and your partner sleep together reveals a lot about your love life. "The positions couples adopt during their slumber speak volumes about their level of intimacy and the style and quality of their love making," says psychologist Dr. Karl Bosuns. He bases his conclusions on an ongoing study he conducted through the years centering on the personalities, sex lives and sleeping positions of over 700 couples.

Too hot to handle -- Couples who sleep back-to-back without touching each other, strangely enough, tend to be the wildest and most passionate in their lovemaking. "They exert so much energy and produce so much heat they don't normally cuddle," says Dr. Bosuns, a family and marriage counselor for 30 years.

Bottoms up -- In this position, the man normally sleeps face down with his arms spread "as if he's embracing the whole world. The woman adopts a tuck position, preserving the warmth she feels in the center of her body. "They fall asleep feeling like they've got the world by the tail," says Dr. Bosuns.

Spoons -- "Lovers who sleep in this position, I've found, are the kind of people who are extremely tactile they love to touch so much that they fall asleep in maximum body contact."

Her leg over his -- This could have two meanings, according to Dr. Bosuns: "either she's unfulfilled and left wanting more, or she's totally satisfied and is simply trying to prolong the afterglow."

His leg over hers -- "Men aren't generally left unsatisfied in their lovemaking, so there's little question what this position means for the man he's feeling very affectionate and adopts a posture that preserves his afterglow," says Dr. Bosuns.

On to ROCK NEWS –

BOB DYLAN DANCES IN NEW CHRISTMAS VIDEO…Bob Dylan's video for "Must Be Santa" -- the lead single from the new Christmas In The Heart collection has made it's way online. The holiday clip, which features Dylan wearing a series of long wigs under his hat, shows a festive Christmas party complete with mass drinking, laughter, singalongs -- and yes -- Bob Dylan dancing.

CHEAP TRICK ANNOUNCES INITIAL WINTER DATES…Cheap Trick has just announced the initial dates for its upcoming winter trek. The band kicks things off on December 3rd at Nashville's legendary Ryman Auditorium, and so far will wrap things up on December 27th in Miami Gardens, Florida at the Land Shark Stadium. Cheap Trick has also announced its first date of the new year, with a February 5th gig scheduled for Windsor, Ontario at Caesars Windsor "The Colosseum."

Bandleader Rick Nielsen feels that the secret to Cheap Trick's longevity is that in an era when bands became so huge so quickly, they were able to retain their fan base while still working regularly: "I think we're a lot of people's fifth favorite band. They might not like everything we do, but they respect the fact of, y'know, the hard work, and, y'know, we've had ups and we've had downs, and guess what -- we keep getting back up."

Cheap Trick tour dates (subject to change):
December 3 - Nashville, TN - Ryman Auditorium
December 9 - Milwaukee, WI - Northern Lights Theater
December 10 - Rosemont, IL - Allstate Arena
December 12 - Red Rock, OK - 7 Clans Paradise Casino
December 27 - Miami Gardens, FL - Land Shark Stadium
February 5 - Windsor, ON - Caesars Windsor "The Colosseum"

PAUL McCARTNEY SET FOR LIBRARY OF CONGRESS HONOR, RELEASES 'GOOD EVENING NEW YORK CITY' TODAY…Paul McCartney will be awarded the U.S. Library of Congress' third Gershwin Prize for Popular Song, according to Billboard. Librarian of Congress James Billington announced the honor on Monday (November 16th), and said that "it is hard to think of another performer and composer who has had a more transformative effect than McCartney."

The library houses the manuscripts of the songwriting team George and Ira Gershwin. McCartney follows previous honorees Stevie Wonder and Paul Simon.

An all star tribute is planned for the former Beatle in January in Washington, D.C., but no further details were announced.

Released today (November 17th) is McCartney's sixth solo live album Good Evening New York. The collection features performances taped live in concert at New York's Citi-Field on July 17th, 18th and 21st.

The album is available in two formats: a two-CD, one-DVD "standard edition," and a four-disc -- two CD, two-DVD -- "deluxe version" featuring expanded packaging and a bonus DVD including McCartney's July 15th performance in New York City on top of The Ed Sullivan Theater marquee. The DVD includes the bonus numbers not aired on The Late Show With David Letterman broadcast.

The tracklist on Good Evening New York City is: "Drive My Car," "Jet," "Only Mama Knows," "Flaming Pie," "Got To Get You Into My Life," "Highway," "The Long And Winding Road," "My Love," "Blackbird," "Here Today," "Dance Tonight," "Calico Skies," "Mrs. Vanderbilt," "Eleanor Rigby," "Sing The Changes," "Band On The Run," "Back In The U.S.S.R," "I'm Down," "Something," "I've Got A Feeling," "Paperback Writer," "A Day In The Life/Give Peace A Chance," "Let It Be," "Live And Let Die," "Hey Jude," "Day Tripper," "Lady Madonna," "I Saw Her Standing There," "Yesterday," "Helter Skelter," "Get Back," and "Sgt. Pepper (Reprise)"/"The End"

McCartney, who directed the concert film featured as part of Good Evening New York City, says that ultimately when it comes to his work the only person he aims to please is himself: "People said to me, 'You know, watch out for the critics, 'cause they'll have their pencils sharpened for you.' They're ready for someone like me, but I'm not really too worried. I've never been worried about critics. They've always damned me for anything I've done. We did 'She Loves You' -- they hated that. We did Sgt Pepper -- they hated that. So I'm kind of used to being hated, and I don't really care."

McCartney kicks off his eight-date European mini-tour on December 2nd in the "Fab Four's" old stomping grounds of Hamburg, Germany.

THE WHO TO RELEASE NEW HITS COLLECTION NEXT MONTH…Set for release on December 22nd is the new 19-track hits compilation The Who - Greatest Hits. As with most of the band's compilations, their early '80s catalogue is only touched upon by two tracks -- 1981's "You Better You Bet" and 1982's "Eminence Front." Their most recent album, Endless Wire is represented with the rarely-heard single "It's Not Enough."

The tracklisting to The Who - Greatest Hits is: "I Can't Explain," "My Generation," "The Kids Are Alright," "Substitute," "Happy Jack," "Pictures Of Lily," "I Can See For Miles," "Magic Bus," "Pinball Wizard," "Behind Blue Eyes," "Baba O'Riley," "Won't Get Fooled Again," "Love, Reign O'er Me," "Who Are You," "Squeeze Box," "You Better You Bet," "Eminence Front," "Real Good Looking Boy," and "It's Not Enough."

"Real Good Looking Boy," the Who's 2004 studio reunion track is both one of the highlights of the band's recent tours and the new Greatest Hits album. Pete Townshend says that he wishes the song, which references Elvis Presley, could delve further into Presley's state of mind: "The tragedy of Elvis and the tragedy perhaps of the way that it's being presented onstage by the Who, which is, it's the tragedy that's being presented. Which is that there's this beautiful, beautiful man and if we wanted to carry it to its conclusion, what we should be doing is we should be looking at whether or not Elvis ever had any pleasure, or fun, or serenity, or contentment in the last couple of years of his life. But the appearance is that he didn't."

That’s it for now, as always, if you can’t be good, be good at it and don’t get caught!!

Jonathan

Monday - November 16, 2009 -

noreply@blogger.com (Jonathan Knight) — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 16:21:00 +0000

ON THIS DAY

It's said that it was on this date back in 2348 BC that the huge flood ended... allowing Noah and his family to finally leave the ark. Pity the poor family member who was the first to suggest they go to the zoo.

On this date in 1901, three cars broke the 60 mile per hour barrier for the very first time. For the record, all three pizzas arrived piping hot!

In 1914, the 12 Federal Reserve Banks opened... one for each day of Christmas.

On this date in 1926, Ohio State named a Holstein Cow as their homecoming queen. Yep, it was an ugly year. Of course, the big question: where the hell do you pin on the corsage?

In 1965, plans were announced to build Disney World. Up until that time, when you won the Superbowl, you could only say you were going to one place.

TODAY IS

November 16th! We're over half-way done with this month already!

Olympic figure skater, Oskana Baul hits 32 today. Tonight, she'll probably blow a 3-2.

Lisa Bonet, one of the Cosby's kids on the old TV show, turns 42 today. She was once married to Lenny Kravitz and it was very hard on their friends: they had no way to tell which one was weirder.

Marg Helgenberger from "CSI" is 51... according to the forensics lab.

David Leisure... who, for a while, became famous as "Joe Isuzu," turns 59 today. His career pretty much went the way of the Isuzu.

THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW

ABC is looking at putting a new "Charlie's Angels" in their fall line-up next year. They've ordered a pilot from Sony and producer Drew Barrymore.

The American Music Awards will open on November 22nd with a medley of songs from Janet Jackson, who will include her own hits and some of brother Michael's.

Rihanna is doing a show in London, and according to a backstage source she has demanded that pizza, french fries and doughnuts, be stocked in her dressing room. Also included were potato chips, microwave lasagna, fried noodles, chicken drumsticks and an apple.

The stripper that claims to have had a night of passion with Fergie's husband, Josh Duhamel, is apologizing to Fergie for the incident.

ABC cancels the comedy "Hank" marking two failures in three years for Kelsey Grammer. His Fox series "Back to You" was also cancelled.

Someone hacked into Britney Spears' Twitter account and starting sending out Satan-worshiping type Tweets.

Among the celebs with a case of Swine flu: T-Boz from TLC.

Jon Gosselin has filed a $5 million claim against TLS, saying its representatives damaged his reputation and career by preventing him from working with other media outlets.

Playboy magazine stock is going up, following reports the magazine is about to be sold.

Goodyear is raising their tire prices by 6%, they say, to cover costs.

The director of the Twilight movies confirms that Robert Pattinson and Kristen Stewart are in a relationship.

Someone tried to extort money from Cindy Crawford and her husband, but police nabbed the guy.

WEIRD NEWS

People Want Bernie Madoff's Stuff! - Turns out Bernie Madoff can still make a buck -- even from jail. At a well publicized auction held this Saturday in Manhattan, Bernard and Ruth Madoff's belongings fetched several times their estimated values for a total of about $1 million bucks! The fallen financier's blue satin New York Mets baseball jacket with Madoff stitched on the back sold for $14,500. Madoff's Hofstra College ring went for $6,000 and a set of golf clubs went for $3,600. The New Jersey fund manager who bought the golf clubs said, "I just wanted Bernie's name on the clubs. But I don't want his vibes to be transmitted -- my fund is doing better than his." Two pairs of Ruth Madoff's diamond dangle earrings sold for $70,000 each and the most highly prized item in the sale, one of Bernard Madoff's 17 Rolex watches, fetched $65,000. The auction was organized by the U.S. Marshals Service, which seized the couple's property. Ruth Madoff has not been charged with any crime but agreed to give up her possessions in return for a promise that federal prosecutors wouldn't pursue $2.5 million not tied to her husband's fraud. Proceeds from the auction will be divided among Madoff's victims. (Yahoo News)

Vegas Stripper Truck: The Continuing Story! - Maybe you remember our story last week about the truck cruising the Las Vegas strip with live strippers on the back. Well the advertising gimmick turned out to be too racy even for sin city. Larry Beard, marketing director of Deja Vu Showgirls, said Friday that he's taking his lawyer's advice and parking the truck. He explained, "We're going to respect the opinion of the folks that are against it. We're going to be good citizens and take it off the street." Earlier Beard had said he was prepared to fight county leaders and others who thought the moving truck promotion was unseemly or unsafe. The truck rolled for 13 nights along the Las Vegas Strip from 10 p.m. until 2 a.m., trying to lure customers to the club. Three sides had windows that weren't tinted, offering views of the strippers dancing around a stripper pole. Actually the girls weren't really stripping, just pole dancing in bikinis. And why are we even hearing about this anyway? I thought what happened in Vegas was supposed to stay in Vegas. (myway.com)

So How Much Is a 50-Year-Old Library Fine? - Georgette Bordine is the librarian at Camelback High School in Phoenix and just had something happen that doesn't happen every day. A former student at the school returned two overdue books that had been checked out 51 years ago! The student also sent along a money order for $1,000 to cover any overdue fines. Bordine says the two Audubon Society books had been checked out in 1959 and the returner wanted to remain anonymous. He also included a letter that explained that his family moved to another state and the books were mistakenly packed. The letter said the money order was to cover fines of 2 cents per day for each book. That would total about $745. The letter says the extra money was added in case the rates had changed. Bordine says the money will buy more books, and the overdue books will be returned to the shelves. Great little rock 'n' roll trivia here. Camelback High School is where drummer Neil Smith from the original Alice Cooper Group went to high school and graduated from. The school is referenced in the song "Alma Mater" from the "School's Out" album. (myway.com)

How Extremely Low Can You Go? - Rather amazing just how low some people can sink to. In Anchorage, Alaska, 27-year-old Cheng Saelee robbed his own mother at gunpoint because she wouldn't give him money to help pay a $430 parking ticket! The Anchorage district attorney said that Saelee was also convicted of illegally contacting his mother from jail and trying to get her to drop the charges. Saelee was arrested after he became angry during an argument with his parents, got a handgun from his room and pointed the weapon at his mother's head. He has been scheduled to be sentenced on February 19 and faces up to 12 years in prison. He may also be deported back to Thailand after he serves his sentence. By the way, the original parking ticket was for abandoning a vehicle-- a decision that turned out to be much more life altering than one would think. (Anchorage Daily News)

74-Year-Old Tagger! - Police in Los Angeles say 74-year-old John Scott is the oldest graffiti vandal ever captured in Los Angeles County. Grandpa Scott was arrested Friday after deputies spotted him on a stairwell at a downtown Metro Center subway station sticking black-and-orange bumper stickers which read: "Who is John Scott?" Stickers used in such a way are referred to as "slap tags" by those in the law enforcement community. They can be adhered to public property in a second or two but are difficult to remove. Scott now faces at least one felony vandalism charge. Up until him, the oldest suspect in L.A. arrested for tagging was 36. (Los Angeles Times)

If You Have a 1,500-Pound Civil War Cannon -- Vallejo Police Would Like A - Word! In Vallejo, California, someone has stolen a 1,500-pound Civil War-era cannon from a local cemetery. The Naval Dahlgren cannon was discovered missing last week from its spot near three others in the Sunrise Memorial Cemetery. The remaining cannons have since been removed and stored in an undisclosed location. Veterans of Foreign Wars member Fred Knoll said he was at Sunrise to prepare for Veterans Day when he noticed the cannon had disappeared. The cannon thieves left behind an engine hoist, which they apparently used to pull the cannon off its pedestal. The cannons are made of bronze and brass which mean they have a big value on the scrap metal market. Drug addicts and a worsening economy have been blamed for an increase in the metal theft trend in the area. (The Oakland Tribune)

I Can't Do the Dishes -- I'll Damage My Sperm Count! - Head's up men -- we've got the ultimate out for you when it comes to housework. According to a new study, household chores – including using a vacuum cleaner or microwave oven – could reduce a man's chances of having children. Researchers at Stanford University exposed male volunteers to electromagnetic fields – high doses of which are produced by all electrically charged objects, including refrigerators and vacuum cleaners – and found such exposure could double the risk of having poor-quality sperm. Fertility expert Dr. De-Kun Li said his work provides the first evidence of a link between electrical goods and declining male fertility. The research will be published in January in the journal Reproductive Toxicology. (Daily Express)

Man Picks Pig Over His Home! - In Southwest Ranches, Florida, Rob Falk must really love his pig. Town officials ordered him to get rid of his 300-pound Yorkshire pet pig named Strawberry, but Falk says he'd rather leave town than give up the animal. City Council members cited Falk's landlord for a code violation in July. Last week, officials gave Falk 30 days to remove Strawberry from the home, saying that the town allows only one Vietnamese pot bellied pig per household. Officials are also worried that the pig will get bigger and grow large tusks. Falk says his family will move because "the pig is like one of our children." ( South Florida Sun-Sentinel)

TOP FIVE CREATIVE WAYS TO GET RID OF THE LEAVES IN YOUR YARD

1. Night drops in your neighbor's yard
2. This year for Christmas, give them the gift of leaves
3. Write a new book called "The Incredible Leaf Diet"
4. Place sign in yard: "Leaves Half Price"
5. Conduct wind-tunnel experiments in the direction of your neighbor's yard

HUNTER'S HUMOR by Tim Hunter

Rebecca Gayheart and husband Eric Dane are expecting their first child together. The good news: the "making of the child" video is already made.

Sarah Palin's new book, "Going Rogue," comes out on Tuesday. It's big enough to be someone's front porch.

The AMA is urging the federal government not to classify marijuana as a dangerous drug and to do more research. Party at the test crew's offices!

Ex New York Gov. Eliot Spitzer -- yes, the guy who was forced to resign because he used prostitutes -- delivered

RULES ARE RULES

Maxim came up with a list of Man Rules... so we decided women need a set of rules of their own.

The Man Rules (according to Maxim):

1. Never redo a high-five. If you mess it up, let it go.
2. The "shotgun rule" is always in effect.
3. If you're white, never leave the sticker on your New Era hat.
4. Only call your girlfriend once a day.
5. Never use the term love-making, except when you're trying to get laid.
6. Men should never, in any way, feed each other.
7. Never dis Chuck Norris.

The Woman Rules

1. Never wear a jean jacket with jeans.
2. Never take your friend's last tampon.
3. It's okay to borrow a razor, but not to use for your naughty parts.
4. Never wear shorts or short skirts without shaving your legs.
5. Don't date another friend's sloppy seconds...it was sloppy for a reason.
6. It's sister before misters... always.
7. In the presence of your mother-in-law, she always knows more than you, but only in her presence.
8. You're forbidden to look hotter than your son's girlfriend.
9. Never use the "C" word or the "P" word.
10. If you plan on getting drunk, remember to wear your panties.
11. Never use another woman's compact without asking.
12. Put the brush down and walk away slowly, don't tease your bangs.
13. Don't wear strappy sandals with crusty feet.
14. Never share your panties with your friends, or purchase from Goodwill.
15. Should never tell a man you love him first.
16. And never sleep with a man on the first date. (that's just NOT RIGHT!!)

On to ROCK NEWS -

STING SLAMS UK 'AMERICAN IDOL'…Sting took time to out to slam Simon Cowell and his British TV show The X Factor -- which is the UK counterpart to our American Idol. In an interview with London's Evening Standard, Sting said, "I am sorry but none of those kids are going to go anywhere, and I say that sadly. They are humiliated when they get sent off. How appalling for a young person to feel that rejection. It is a soap opera which has nothing to do with music. In fact, it has put music back decades. Television is very cynical."

He added: "I was looking at televised karaoke where they conform to stereotypes. They are either Mariah Carey or Whitney Houston or Boyzone and are not encouraged to create any real unique signature or fingerprint. That cannot come from TV."

Sting went on to say, "The X Factor is a preposterous show and you have judges who have no recognizable talent apart from self-promotion, advising them what to wear and how to look. It is appalling... The music industry has been hugely important to England, bringing in millions. If anyone thinks The X Factor is going to do that, they are wrong."

BEATLES NEWS ROUNDUP…Ringo Starr will release his 16th solo album, called Y Not on January 12th. Starr's representatives would not confirm the exact date for the new album, but said than an announcement would be coming soon. (examiner.com)

Earlier this year, we reported in an exclusive that among the high profile guests taking part in the album's sessions were Paul McCartney, Joe Walsh, the Eurythmics' Dave Stewart, Gary Wright, Edgar Winter, and Billy Squier.

Unconfirmed reports claim that Jeff Lynne has also been involved on at least one track on the album.

Although the Beatles are reportedly earning upward to $1 billion this year thanks in part to the success of their Rock Band game, Viacom CFO Tom Dooley says that the company itself is just starting to earn money on the game. Dooley explained, "Rock Band was a negative contributor to margins in the third quarter. We expect it to break even or be slightly profitable in the fourth quarter from a margin point of view. It really depends on how many units we sell in the holiday season."

According to sources, the reason the band has failed to earn a substantial profit is due to the expensive Beatles facsimile instrument/controllers which have been eating into the actual game's profits. (Vintage Vinyl News)

Yoko Ono is thrilled with the prospect of a whole new generation learning to create music directly because of The Beatles: Rock Band: "It's great, I really think it's fantastic. Now, y'know, all the kids are gonna learn how to make music. The first revolution was the fact that they learned to love music, and now they're going to make music themselves. And this whole planet is gonna be covered with music, which is a healing power. We need to heal this planet, and y'know, that's what we're gonna do."

Harmonix and MTV Games announced that the remaining eight songs from the Beatles' Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band album will become downloadable for Rock Band on the Xbox 360 and Wii starting tomorrow (November 17th) and on Thursday (November 19th) for PlayStation 3 players.

The new Sgt. Pepper tracks available for The Beatles: Rock Band are: "Fixing A Hole," "She's Leaving Home," "Being For The Benefit Of Mr. Kite," "Within You Without You," "When I'm Sixty Four," "Lovely Rita," "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band," (Reprise)," and "A Day In The Life." (gamespot.com)

A new line of menswear inspired by John Lennon's artwork will be available this holiday season. The new line Designs Inspired By the Art Of John Lennon by English Laundry, "features colors, silhouettes and collar shapes based on Lennon's own wardrobe from the '60s and '70s... with detailing derived from his artwork." (Abbey Road Best)

ROGER DALTREY CONSIDERING WRITING HIS AUTOBIOGRAPHY…Roger Daltrey says that he's finally at the point where he's seriously considering writing his memoirs. Daltrey, who's currently on the road with his Use It Or Lose It solo tour, explained that the time seems right to get it all down: "I'm thinking about a biography now. It's probably time. Just the story of my life and the things I've done, y'know, it's kind of interesting. And when I look at the juxtapositions of things -- y'know, like being the singer in the Who to being a fish farmer, and being a film star to being a beef farmer... There's all these swings and round-a-bouts in my life that are so juxtaposition-ed. There were interesting times, they were interesting times. And it wasn't all fun, but there was an awful lot of fun. The only trouble is, the people usually want the salacious crap and I don't know if I'm prepared to dig that, y'know?"

During Friday night's (November 13th) show in Atlantic City's Borgata Hotel and Casino, Daltrey joked about the Who's upcoming Super Bowl half time appearance. Daltrey said that although he loved the macho aspects of American football, it was no match for Britain's rugby, which usually involved at least someone breaking something before the game is over.

Roger Daltrey performs tomorrow night (November 17th) in Red Bank, New Jersey at the Count Basie Theatre.

U2 FINED FOR NOISE POLLUTION…U2 and concert promoters MCB were fined the equivalent of $53,000 in U.S. dollars by the Dublin City Council for excess noise levels during their concerts at the city's Croke Park in July. According to Ireland's Evening Herald, the council brought the penalties due to the quartet exceeding volume levels a dozen times during the band's three shows. But the fine was called "paltry" by a number of media outlets when compared to the $30 million the band earned from the stadium gigs.

The shows also caused controversy with local residents because of the 44 straight hours it took to tear down the band's massive "Claw" stage set-up.

U2 performed in Germany two weeks ago to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall.

The band will return to North America in 2010 for more dates in support of its latest album, No Line On The Horizon.

MICHAEL ANTHONY SAYS EDDIE VAN HALEN 'HAS IT IN FOR HIM'…Five years after parting ways, Michael Anthony says that Eddie Van Halen still bears him ill will. In an in depth interview with undercover.com.au Anthony shed substantial light on his split with Eddie and Alex Han Halen.

When asked pointedly about the status of his relationship with Eddie, Anthony said, "There is no relationship... Eddie had it in for me ever since I buddied up with Sammy Hagar again which I couldn't understand because Sammy had asked me sometime back if I would like to come and guest on some shows. This was when Van Halen was going through a period where Eddie was dealing with some of his own demons. He had the cancer thing he was dealing with and his marriage. As far as I was concerned, I was going out there waving the Van Halen flag to say, 'we didn't go away, we are still here.' Unfortunately, he didn't see it that way."

Anthony added: "He never liked me hanging out with Sammy and I can't understand why because Van Halen was my band. They didn't see it that way so they chose to not have me participate (in the reunion with David Lee Roth).

He went on to explain the chain of events following the band's last tour with Sammy Hagar, recalling, "We finished out reunion tour in 2004 and I probably knew that nothing was going to happen after that, also because of the physical and mental state that Eddie was in at that time. That tour did not end very harmoniously I guess you could say... Back in 2007 when they announced their reunion tour with David Lee Roth, I found out about it like all the other fans did. I saw it in the press and found out like everyone else did. That didn't hurt me as much as when they relaunched their website and took my image off a couple of the album covers. That upset me that they would go so far as to try and erase me out of the history of the band."

Anthony spoke about how Roth and the Van Halen brothers missed a historic opportunity when they all chose to sit out the band's 2007 induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame: "Unfortunately... from what I heard after talking to Slash, Dave wanted to do certain things that would steal the show and when he couldn't have it his way he didn't want to show up. For whatever reason, Eddie and Alex didn't show up. It sucked. (Sammy and I) were the two people who weren't even in the band anymore but there was no way I was going to miss that... I remember sitting at the table while R.E.M. were playing and I turned to Sammy and said, 'This would have been great. We would have kicked this thing right in the ass.' Nobody would have ever forgotten this induction ceremony if all of us were getting along and went up there."

When asked how he felt about Eddie replacing him in the band by his teenage son Wolfgang, Anthony said, "That's his son. He is a teenager but he is a decent bass player. I think that was also part of the reason to do it, to spite me."

Earlier this month, Chickenfoot -- featuring Anthony, Hagar, Chad Smith, and Joe Satriani -- was named the best new band of 2009 at the annual Classic Rock Magazine Awards in London.

Van Halen is believed to be gearing up for a 2010 album and tour.

That’s it for now, as always, if you can’t be good, be good at it and don’t get caught!!

Jonathan

Friday - November 13, 2009 -

noreply@blogger.com (Jonathan Knight) — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 18:40:00 +0000

Happy Birthday to me...Happy Birthday to ME, I Look like a monkey and I swing with them TOO

ON THIS DAY

On this date in 1789, Ben Franklin wrote in a letter than "nothing is certain but death and taxes." Of course, if he were around today, he probably just would have written that on his Facebook page.

In 1875, football players in the Harvard/Yale game were the first wear uniforms.

This after an unfortunate incident the previous year, when Yale accidentally gang-tackled an innocent tuba player.

Before, they would play the game naked and needless to say, tackling could be very tricky... and downright dangerous.

I'll just assume they wore some kind of clothes prior to this.

Why they refused to wear them before is beyond me.

On this date in 1942,the minimum draft age was lowered from 21 to 18. That was back when fake ID went the other direction: "22? Oh, no, look: I'm 17!"

On this date in 1972, the Holland Tunnel opened up between New York and New Jersey. They called it the Holland tunnel because New York and New Jersey went in Dutch on it.

TODAY IS

It's "Friday the 13th, consider yourself warned

Neil Flynn is 49 today. Before you start singing "Happy birthday to... who?," he played the custodian on "Scrubs."

Whoopi Goldberg turns the big 6-0 today. Whoopi. Who knew when her folks were making whoopee they were making Whoopi. Plus, we're still trying to figure out that Ted Danson thing. What was THAT all about?

Madeleine Sherwood, who played Mother Superior in the old Sally Field comedy, "The Flying Nun," is still around. She turns 87 and has gotten rid of most of her old habits.

THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW

Michael Jackson wanted to build a clone of himself, apparently undergoing several three dimensional scans in 1996 so that a virtual reality "robotic" twin could be produced.

Kellie Pickler has dyed her blonde hair red, revealing the change a few weeks ago on her Twitter page. Kellie told Access Hollywood's Nancy O'Dell, "I wanted to try something new. We got a lot of blondes in country music, so I thought I'm gonna give Reba some company."

Lindsay Lohan's mom says the actress has been cutting herself.

Disgraced and dethroned Miss California USA, Carrie Prejean is says that an erotic video, shot when she was just 17, is not a sex tape because she is all alone in the video. Yeah, right.

If you like to keep up on these things, Kellie Pickler is now a redhead.

As bizarre as it sounds, police in Connecticut say they have seen a rash of chewing gum thefts this year.

Fox has canceled "Dollhouse" and ABC has bumped Kelsey Gramma's "Hank" out of their hot Wednesday night comedy lineup.

Joe Perry said Monday that Steven Tyler was done with Aerosmith. Tyler popped in during a performance of Joe's side-band Wednesday night and announced that he was not leaving. Oh, for Pete's sake...

Hot Julianne Hough and boyfriend Chuck Wicks have split, reports People.

Jon & Kate Gosselin say they'll bury the hatchet for at least one day and will do Christmas together with the kids.

Wal-Mart says it's going to stay open 24 hours on "Black Friday," the day after Thanksgiving, to help handle the glut of shoppers.

Mike Tyson was arrested at the L.A. airport after punching out a paparazzi who was taking pictures of him.

"The Office" star Ron Livingston and Rosemarie DeWitt were married on November 2.

Tiffani Thiessen and her husband, artist and actor Brady Smith, are expecting their first baby next May.

WEIRD NEWS

Tweets To Become TV Show! - If your tweets are good enough -- you might just get your own TV show! For the last few months, 29-year-old Justin Halpern has been sharing a regular Twitter feed featuring pearls of wisdom from his 73-year-old father. The tweets have attracted more than 700,000 followers since he began posting his dad's often profane outlooks on life. The comments include things like: "The baby will talk when he talks, relax. It ain't like he knows the cure for cancer and he just ain't spitting it out." Well he got the attention of CBS and now Halpern and the creators of Will and Grace will work together to create a pilot show which could become a TV series. Halpern moved back in with his parents in San Diego in August and began the Twitter feed based on daily conversations with his dad soon after. Some of the other words of wisdom from Daddy Halpern include: "Oh please, you practically invented lazy. People should have to call you and ask for the rights to lazy before they use it." "Just pay the parking ticket. Don't be so outraged. You're not a freedom fighter in the civil rights movement. You double parked." "Why would I want to check a voicemail on my cell phone? People want to talk to me, call again. If I want to talk to you, I'll answer." "I turn the kitchen faucet on and the shower burns you, yes, I get it! No, I'm not gonna stop, I'm just saying yes, I get that concept." (Ananova)

They Call Me The Human Hardware Store! - Requelme Abanto says, "They call me the human hardware store." This from his hospital bed in Lima, Peru, where doctors removed 1.5 pounds of metal from his stomach, including nails, coins, and rusted copper wire and scrap metal. Surgeon Carlos Delgado said he's never seen anything like what he found in last week's operation. The 26-year-old construction worker apparently ate the metal for months, and told local TV reporters that that he may now do it in public as sport. He says, "I swallowed 17 nails in February and didn't die. Five-inch nails, all in one day." Of course he did later create a hole in his stomach which is why he had to have surgery. Some people will do anything for attention. (myway.com)

Sounds Like Somebody Has a Drinking Problem - Might be fair to say that someone in Clawson, Michigan has a bit of a drinking problem. Police said a woman threatened her husband with a 7-inch knife after he threw away her bottle of vodka as she slept. The husband returned home from work to find his wife sleeping with a bottle of vodka. He threw away the bottle. She woke up, argued with her husband, went back to sleep, then got up again and grabbed a knife from the kitchen to force him to go get her more vodka or give her the car keys. The poor guy held her at bay with a chair while he called 911. She was arrested and found to have a blood-alcohol level of 0.23 percent. (The Daily Tribune)

The Wrong Way To Get Back At Your Roommates - In Largo, Florida, 51-year-old Robert Turley, who has a lengthy arrest record, seemed like he was trying to do the right thing for once when he called police to report a woman was being attacked. Actually he called three times over two hours. The first time he said a man was chasing a woman with a knife. The second time he said the guy was "smashing potatoes" over the woman's head. In the final call, he claimed the man was punching the woman in the face. Turns out none of this was true. After each call, Robert would hide in a neighbor's yard and watch when the police arrived. He later admitted he made the whole thing up because he was drunk and angry at his male and female roommates. So police arrested him -- his 13th arrest since 1991. (St. Petersburg Times)

Can Las Vegas Get Any More Ridiculous? - Is it possible for Las Vegas to become any more ridiculous? Doesn't look like it. The latest talk of the town is all about a truck that now cruises up and down the Vegas strip with a stripper dancing on a pole! The mobile stripper is the latest advertising gimmick for Deja Vu Showgirls and is akin to a small U-Haul truck but with Plexiglas surrounding the brightly lit cargo area instead of walls. In the middle is a gleaming stripper pole. Swinging around the pole is a scantily clad young woman. Two of her fellow strippers are in the back of the truck too, awaiting their turns. Sure some have complained but A) police say the truck and its dancers is not illegal and B) it's Vegas for crying out loud! (CNN)

Red Sox Fan Sues Bon Jovi For $400 Billion! - Samuel Bartley Steele has a bone to pick with Bon Jovi. A $400 Billion dollar bone. He's suing the rock star along with Time Warner, Major League Baseball and others! He claims they ripped off his ode to the Boston Red Sox entitled (Man I Really) Love This Team. According to the lawsuit, the song was released in October 2004 and performed by the Bart Steele Band. Steele says he handed out copies to Red Sox executives, sent copies of the song to players, performed it live on local television and sent it to MLB with the idea for a "country" song that would market baseball. Three years later, during the 2007 play-offs, Bon Jovi released the song, I Love This Town, that was used by MLB to promote baseball on Time Warner's TBS cable station. Steele is now under the impression that Jon Bon Jovi either heard the song when he was campaigning for John Kerry in Boston in 2004 or that some executive passed it along to him. A district judge ruled that no reasonable jury could conclude there was any substantial similarity between the songs and dismissed the claim. But Red Sox fans don't give up very easily and Steele has now taken his giant lawsuit to an appeals court. (Reuters)

World's Greatest Investor - Just call Canada's Kirby Fontaine the greatest investor in the world -- or maybe just the luckiest. Kirby was literally down to his last $10 bill and decided to spend it on a lottery ticket. He's been out of work following a stroke several months ago and literally had only $10 bucks to his name. But turns out that was money very well spent. He won $50 MILLION in Canada's Lotto Max Drawing and lottery officials in Winnipeg presented an oversized $50 million check to Kirby and his wife this week. The couple has two children and should never want for anything ever again. (AHN News)

TOP FIVE UNLUCKY THINGS YOU PROBABLY SHOULDN'T DO ON FRIDAY THE 13TH

1. Yell out, "What's that on your face?" to Mike Tyson
2. Step on a crack inside a submerged submarine
3. Spill salt on an open wound
4. Have a black cat cross your path, especially if you're a mouse
5. Walk under a ladder attached to a speed fire truck

HUNTER'S HUMOR by Tim Hunter

Al Gore's cable company has let go of 80 employees. That would explain those carbon footprints leading to the unemployment line.

A Southern California historian says that she's gone over the Mayan calendar and it's true: the calendar predicts the LA Clippers will finish last this season.

Lou Dobbs just up and quit at CNN. He's now the leading candidate for this year's "Sarah Palin Award"... that is, if Sarah doesn't just win it herself.

As Carrie Prejean always said, "If you want something done right, do it yourself".

What's that old saying? "I never met a nymphomaniac I didn't like"? Something like that...

Why doesn't Carrie Prejean shop at Home Depot? Because of their slogan, "You can do it, we can help!"

13 FACTS ABOUT FRIDAY THE 13TH

The British Navy is said to have built a ship named Friday the 13th, or the HMS Friday, which on its maiden voyage left dock on a Friday the 13th, and was never heard from again. As LiveScience readers pointed out, however, this story seems to be a legend. The Royal Navy Museum states on its web site that this story, which has been told before, is a hoax. "There has never been a Royal Navy ship named HMS Friday – or after any other day of the week for that matter," the museum states.

The ill-fated Apollo 13 launched at 13:13 CST on Apr. 11, 1970. The sum of the date's digits (4-11-70) is 13 (as in 4+1+1+7+0 = 13). And the explosion that crippled the spacecraft occurred on April 13 (not a Friday). The crew did make it back to Earth safely, however.

Many hospitals have no room 13, while some tall buildings skip the 13th floor.

Fear of Friday the 13th -- one of the most popular myths in science -- is called paraskavedekatriaphobia as well as friggatriskaidekaphobia. Triskaidekaphobia is fear of the number 13.

Quarterback Dan Marino wore No. 13 throughout his career with the Miami Dolphins. Despite being a superb quarterback (some call him one of the best ever), he got to the Super Bowl just once, in 1985, and was trounced 38-16 by the San Francisco 49ers and Joe Montana (who wore No. 16 and won all four Super Bowls he played in).

Butch Cassidy, notorious American train and bank robber, was born on Friday, April 13, 1866.

Fidel Castro was born on Friday, August 13, 1926.

President Franklin D. Roosevelt would not travel on the 13th day of any month and would never host 13 guests at a meal. Napoleon and Herbert Hoover were also triskaidekaphobic, with an abnormal fear of the number 13.

Superstitious diners in Paris can hire a quatorzieme, or professional 14th guest.

Mark Twain once was the 13th guest at a dinner party. A friend warned him not to go. "It was bad luck," Twain later told the friend. "They only had food for 12."

Woodrow Wilson considered 13 his lucky number, though his experience didn't support such faith. He arrived in Normandy, France on Friday, Dec. 13, 1918, for peace talks, only to return with a treaty he couldn't get Congress to sign. (The ship's crew wanted to dock the next day due to superstitions, Fernsler said.) He toured the United States to rally support for the treaty, and while traveling, suffered a near-fatal stroke.

The number 13 suffers from its position after 12, according to numerologists who consider the latter to be a complete number -- 12 months in a year, 12 signs of the zodiac, 12 gods of Olympus, 12 labors of Hercules, 12 tribes of Israel, 12 apostles of Jesus, 12 days of Christmas and 12 eggs in a dozen.

The seals on the back of a dollar bill include 13 steps on the pyramid, 13 stars above the eagle's head, 13 war arrows in the eagle's claw and 13 leaves on the olive branch. So far there's been no evidence tying these long-ago design decisions to the present economic situation.

ORIGINS OF FRIDAY THE 13TH

Where's all this superstition come from? Nobody knows for sure. But it may date back to Biblical times (the 13th guest at the Last Supper betrayed Jesus). By the Middle Ages, both Friday and 13 were considered bearers of bad fortune.

Meanwhile the belief that numbers are connected to life and physical things -- called numerology -- has a long history.

"You can trace it all the way from the followers of Pythagoras, whose maxim to describe the universe was 'all is number,'" says Mario Livio, an astrophysicist and author of "The Equation That Couldn't Be Solved" (Simon & Schuster, 2005). Thinkers who studied under the famous Greek mathematician combined numbers in different ways to explain everything around them, Livio said.

In modern times, numerology has become a type of para-science, much like the meaningless predictions of astrology, scientists say.

"People are subconsciously drawn towards specific numbers because they know that they need the experiences, attributes or lessons, associated with them, that are contained within their potential," says professional numerologist Sonia Ducie. "Numerology can 'make sense' of an individual's life (health, career, relationships, situations and issues) by recognizing which number cycle they are in, and by giving them clarity."

Mathematicians dismiss numerology as having no scientific merit, however.

"I don't endorse this at all," Livio said, when asked to comment on the popularity of commercial numerology for a story prior to the date 06/06/06. Seemingly coincidental connections between numbers will always appear if you look hard enough, he said.

On to ROCK NEWS –

THE WHO SAID TO PLAY SUPER BOWL HALF TIME SHOW…The Who will perform at the halftime show for Super Bowl XVIV (44) on February 7th in Miami, according to sportsillustrated.cnn.com. The Who has been heavily rumored as the followup act to Bruce Springsteen & the E Street Band since just after "The Boss's" 2008 blockbuster performance. Despite the Sports Illustrated leak, there's been no official announcement made by either the Who or the NFL, who refused to confirm nor deny the report, saying only, "When we have something to announce, we'll announce it."

Pete Townshend says that although the current touring version of the Who pays homage to the band's '60s, '70s, and early '80s lineups, do not confuse it as a tribute "act": "Y'know, there's a temptation to describe what it is that we're doing with the Who as a nostalgia exercise, but actually what it is a virtual reality exercise, really. It's about trying to re-create what was once there, and inasmuch as we don't particularly need to -- it would be nice to have some new material. But you know, inasmuch as we don't need new material to do what we used to do, we can pretty much use the same techniques."

Roger Daltrey says that as unbelievable as it might seem, the Who are still on top of their game: "Well, the one thing that never ceases to amaze me, and it's really apparent in these last few shows we've done, is how the energy hasn't changed. The stuff I'm listening to now from the live gigs has got, is in some ways, more energy than it had back then, which is extraordinary considering our age. So I suppose it's something that's in-built in the music. And it's got nothing to do with age, it's just the music, and it's kind of gratifying, in a way. That's how I've always felt about it."

Townshend is putting the finishing touches on his new musical called Floss -- key portions of which will become the basis of the Who's upcoming 2010 studio album.

Daltrey performs tonight and tomorrow (Friday and Saturday, November 13th and 14th) at Atlantic City's Borgata Hotel, Casino & Spa / Music Box.

MAN FILES SUIT AGAINST BON JOVI AND OTHERS FOR $400 BILLION…Bon Jovi is still caught up in a $400 billion lawsuit involving a Massachusetts man, who's also filing suit against Time Warner and Major League Baseball. According to Hollywood Reporter, Samuel Bartley Steele alledges that the defendants stole his song, "(Man I Really) Love this Team," which he wrote in honor of the Boston Red Sox. Steele says when the song came out in October 2004 by the Bart Steele Band, it was distributed to Red Sox executives. During the 2007 playoffs, Bon Jovi released a track, called "I Love This Town," which was then used by MLB to promote playoff baseball on TBS. Steele claims that Jon Bon Jovi either heard his song or that an executive passed it along to him -- arguing that both tracks resemble each other. But Steele's own musicologist testified that they weren't very similar, and a district judge recently dismissed the claim, ruling that it was hard to tell the similarity. That hasn't stopped Steele, who now plans to appeal the ruling.

Bon Jovi released its new album, The Circle, this week.

FANS IN UPROAR OVER DIMEBAG DEATH PAINTING…Fans of the late Pantera and Damageplan guitarist "Dimebag" Darrell Abbott are in an uproar over the resurfacing of a 2005 painting called "The Assassination Of Dimebag Darrell." Done by New York-based artist Tom Sanford, the picture is a graphic depiction of the fatal onstage shooting of Abbott in December 2004 by Nathan Gale at a Columbus, Ohio rock club. The controversy over the painting has erupted again now that the picture is set to be auctioned off on November 21st by the London-based Phillips de Pury & Company.

Sanford has done other paintings chronicling violence in the lives of musicians, including one of a stabbing incident at the 2004 Vibe Awards and another showing rapper 50 Cent in an altercation involving a knife.

In a lengthy statement posted at his website, Sanford wrote: "The painting is certainly in poor taste, but I think that when one is describing a mass murder, etiquette is really not an issue. Poor taste is pretty much the baseline criteria for my work, so fundamental to my project that I really do not consider it when I make a painting. I have no interest in being in good taste. My work is always subjective, inaccurate and incorrect, and I stand behind this position."
CLARENCE CLEMONS SAYS HE FEELS 'PASSION' FOR BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN…Clarence Clemons says that in many ways Bruce Springsteen is his soul mate. Clemons, who has just published his memoir, called Big Man: Real Life & Tall Tales, explained that his initial bond with Springsteen was incredible strong, telling The Associated Press, "When I first met him, I didn't want to let go, and he didn't want to let go. It's like you finally found out what you were looking for all your life artistically, creatively... We just talked about ourselves, about what we wanted in life. The connection is still there. I love being with him. I love being around him."

Clemons, who starts every E Street Band show with a quick soul kiss from Springsteen, says their connection remains one of his strongest in life: "It's the most passion that you have without sex. Two androgynous beings becoming one. It's love. It's two men -- two strong, very virile men -- finding that space in life where they can let go enough of their masculinity to feel the passion of love and respect and trust. Friendships are based on those things, and you seal it with a kiss."

Clemons recalled being devastated upon hearing the news that Springsteen was splitting the E Street Band up in 1989. Clemons, who was on the road with bandmate Nils Lofgren for Ringo Starr's initial All Starr Band tour, quickly came to terms with Springsteen's break: "For the first half-hour, 45 minutes, I was very angry. But then, the reality of it all came and my spirituality was involved in my decisions. I said "I know that this is what he wants to do, and that's fine." I was just thankful for the opportunities I've had to meet all these people, and now also get on with my life and search out some things on my own. But I said to myself -- this is not forever. This is just a temporary thing while Bruce is going out to try other things. So, I got through it."

Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band perform tonight (November 13th) in Auburn Hills, Michigan at the Palace Of Auburn Hills.

GRAHAM NASH REGRETS NOT COLLABORATING WITH GEORGE HARRISON…One of the highlights of the recent Rock And Roll Hall of Fame Concerts at Madison Square Garden was Graham Nash, David Crosby, and Paul Simon's rendition of George Harrison's "Here Comes The Sun."

Nash, who first saw the Beatles perform in 1959, became friends with Harrison and the "Fab Four" while touring with the Hollies in 1963. Nash regrets that he and Harrison never got to connect any further on a musical level: "I think it would have been easier earlier. I think both he and I got wrapped up in our respective band's fame. Obviously the Beatles were way more famous than we were, and even trying to penetrate their scene was difficult. They were completely surrounded by people that handled them. They didn't have time. It just never worked out. But I know that had George and I ever made music together, it would've been quite interesting because we're very similar, and yet very different."

STING TO PERFORM WITH THE PHILADELPHIA ORCHESTRA…Sting has signed on to headline Philadelphia's Academy of Music 153rd Anniversary Concert on January 30th. He'll perform with his own four-piece band -- including longtime guitarist Dominic Miller, and former E Street Band keyboardist David Sancious on piano -- as well as with the Philadelphia Orchestra conducted by David Hartley. According to the press release, Sting's set will feature both solo and Police songs performed with the band and orchestra.

Sting has performed throughout the years with small rock combos -- like the Police, solo, and with larger more jazz-based bands as well. He says that there are certain subtleties needed when playing with a large amount of musicians: "With a large band, it's a question of not having everybody play at the same time. You know, there are moments when they have to just be tacit and listen and then take their turn. Dynamics are important with a big band, you know, 'cause it can be overpowering if everybody is playing. To be able to play quietly, very quietly, and also very loud, I think the dynamics are important."

That’s it for today, if you can’t be good, be good at it and don’t get caught!!

Jonathan

Thursday - November 12, 2009 -

noreply@blogger.com (Jonathan Knight) — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 16:51:00 +0000

ON THIS DAY

On this date in 1859 the first daring young man appeared on a flying trapeze. He flew through the air with the greatest of ease. I feel a song coming on.

In 1892, "Pudge" Heffelfinger became the first-ever professional football player by accepting $25 for travel and a $500 bonus. Today, that would even pay for their shoes. Or, these days, that's the tip for the valet and lunch.

On this date in 1933, two professional football teams did something that no teams had done before: played on a Sunday! Just think, if this was 33 years ago, we'd have today off!

In 1946, the very first artificial snow was created at a ski area. It resulted in the first-ever imitation broken leg.

TODAY IS

Former figure skater and pipe swinger, Tonya Harding -- the original Joan the Plumber -- turns 39 today. Instead of blowing out her birthday candles, she whacks them with a pipe.

Former "Friends" star David Schwimmer turns 43. As for successful projects, right now he 's "on a break."

Megan Mullally, Karen from "Will & Grace," hits 51 today. Hey, AARP, good luck... she's all yours!

National Sundae Day -- the first ice cream sundae was said to be served by accident way back in 1881. Druggist Edward Berner of Two Rivers, Wisconsin, couldn't serve flavored soda water on the Sabbath so he compromised and put ice cream in a dish and poured the syrup on top. It was called an ice cream Sunday. The spelling was later changed to "sundae."

THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW

Aaron Carter danced his way home this week on "Dancing with the Stars." Just four teams left.

Former "Apprentice" contestant, Omarosa, is getting her own reality TV show about dating, called "Omarosa's Ultimate Merger."

Sexy Eva Mendes has posed nearly naked in a giant, city-blcok sized billboard ad for Calvin Klein in the trendy SoHo neighborhood of New York City. AOL's PopEater reports that Eva is wearing a sheer bra and tugging at the skimpy briefs worn by an equally sweaty male model.

Shaquille O'Neal's wife has filed for a separation and says she's heading to a divorce.

Oh no. Men who are in their 40s and smoke, have high blood pressure and elevated cholesterol will likely die 10 years earlier than their healthier friends, according to a study by researchers at the University of Oxford in England.

Lindsay Lohan's mom says that Lindsay was dating Heath Ledger at the time of his death.

Nicolas Cage is suing his ex-manager because of his current money woes, but some are saying he didn't help his own cause. For example, did Nick really need to out-bid Leonardo DiCaprio and buy that dinosaur skull for $276,000?

Steven Tyler says he isn't leaving Aerosmith. Tyler made a surprise appearance with guitarist Joe Perry and his band Tuesday night at a New York City venue.

This year's World Series was a huge ratings hit, drawing an average of over 19 million viewers per game. That's an increase of more than 6 million per game over last year.

ABC has canceled "Eastwick," a show based on the John Updike novel "The Witches of Eastwick."

The final price tag on Michael Jackson's funeral has passed the $1 million mark.

Rolling Stones' Ronnie Wood has been divorced by his wife of 24 years on the grounds of adultery. Oh really? Do tell. The 62-year-old guitarist married Jo Wood, a 54-year-old former model in 1985 and they have two children together.

Tiger Woods is among the golfers down under competing this weekend in the Australian Masters.

An arrest warrant has been dropped for actor Randy Quaid and his wife, Evi, who are accused of stiffing a Santa Barbara County hotel on a $10,000 bill. Prosecutor Lee Carter says the warrant was recalled after the Quaids posted bail of $20,000 each last week.

Former Chicago Cubs slugger Sammy Sosa is looking lighter these days. He says it's due to some skin rejuvenation treatments he's undergone.

American Idol runner-up David Archuleta already has a Christmas album out.

WEIRD NEWS

Patriotic Muggers? - This is just really weird. A 21-year-old University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee student said he was walking home from work about 1:15 a.m. when he was pulled into an alley and told to lay face down while someone put a gun to his neck. Four men took his wallet, keys and his cell phone. But then something very strange happened. One of the muggers noticed the victim had an Army ID in the wallet and that he was an Army reservist. So that guy, presumably the group's leader, told the others to return the items and they put most of his belongings on the ground next to him. The victim told police, "The guy continued to say throughout the situation that he respects what I do and at one point he actually thanked me and he actually apologized." The group then started walking away but per the victim, "The leader of the group actually walked back and gave me a quick fist bump, which was very strange." The reservist asked not to be identified because the robbers still had his keys. Police then got a report of a similar crime ten minutes later by what sounded like the same foursome of muggers. This time their victim was a 47-year-old formerly convicted burglar who had a Department of Corrections inmate ID in his wallet. They kept that wallet apparently unfazed by that ID. (myway.com)

Best Sanitation Department In America - Congratulations Parsippany, New Jersey! You've got the best sanitation workers in America -- probably the world! We say this because the department came to the rescue big time for Angelo and Bridget Pericolo after they accidentally threw away Bridget's wedding ring. Bridget had placed the ring in a cup that Angelo, threw out with the garbage before leaving for work. When he realized the mistake, he contacted the town's sanitation supervisor, who suggested coming by the Parsippany dump. Supervisor Michael Brotons and sanitation workers Edgar Lopez and Joseph McGee then proceeded to dig through ten tons of garbage until they finally found the garbage bag that Angelo had thrown away. The Pericolos got their wedding ring back and by the way, they had just recently celebrated their 55th wedding anniversary! (Daily Record)

It Won't Exactly Be a Gay Old Time at the Prom! - In Russellville, Alabama, the principle of Tharptown High School said he would cancel the school's prom rather than let 17-year-old lesbian student Cynthia Stewart bring her girlfriend as a date. When Cynthia approached her principal to ask if she could bring her girlfriend with her to the prom, he said no. He also made Cynthia remove a sticker she was wearing that said, "I am a lesbian," telling her, "You don't have that much freedom of speech at school." So now the ACLU has gotten involved and demanded that Cynthia be allowed to attend the prom with her girlfriend and to stop interfering with her first amendment rights. Ironically, Cynthia is on the prom committee, created the theme for the event, and personally raised over $200 to help put the prom on. Cynthia's aunt and guardian appealed to the school board but they let the decision stand. Christine P. Sun, Senior Counsel with the ACLU said, "Federal law makes it absolutely clear that Franklin County School System doesn't have any right to discriminate against lesbian, gay, and bisexual students who want to bring same-sex dates to school dances." (The Examiner)

Food Fight Leads To 25 Arrests! - In the old days if you started a food fight in the school lunchroom you might get detention, or maybe even a suspension. Now they arrest you! At Calumet middle-school in Chicago a food fight somehow broke out and within minutes, dozens of middle-school students had joined in the ruckus, and pelted adults who were ducking for cover. By the end of the day, 25 of the students, ages 11 to 15, had been rounded up, arrested, taken from school and put in jail! A spokesman for the Chicago police said the charges were reckless conduct, a misdemeanor. Now parents are questioning what appears to be the criminalization of age-old adolescent pranks, and the lasting legal and psychological impact of the arrests. Erica Russell, the mother of two eighth-grade girls who spent eight hours in jail said, "My children have to appear in court. They were handcuffed, slammed in a wagon, had their mug shots taken and treated like real criminals." The students were later released into the custody of their parents and all were suspended for two days. Diana Shulla-Cose, president and co-founder of Perspectives Charter Schools which operates Calumet described the entire episode as "unfortunate" and added, "We don't take this lightly." She also said the school was working individually with the families of students who were arrested to support them through a difficult time, and through the process of getting the youths back to classes. (New York Times)

Clean Up on Aisle 4! - In Iowa City, Iowa, police arrested 57-year-old Robert E. Lee for allegedly dropping his pants at a CVS pharmacy and defecating on the floor before walking out! When police talked with Lee, they said he smelled of alcohol, had unsteady balance and his speech was slurred. Turns out he had a blood-alcohol content of .24, three times the state's legal limit. He was charged with fifth-degree criminal mischief and public intoxication, both simple misdemeanors. (Iowa Press Citizen)

World's Most Expensive Bottle of Beer?- It may become the world's most expensive bottle of beer and it was once onboard the infamous Hindenburg! The undrinkable Lowenbrau lager was one of six unopened beers found by fireman Leroy Smith at the landing site of the German blimp in Lakehurst airfield in New Jersey on May 6, 1937 after the Hindenburg burst into flames upon landing killing 38 people. Smith buried the bottles on site because the police sealed off the area to investigate the cause of the fiery accident. He later dug up the mementos giving five of the beers to his colleagues and keeping one for himself. Smith's family kept the beer bottle all these years but has finally decided to sell it. It will go up for auction on Saturday in Britain and is expected to fetch over $8,000. (AHN News)

You Mean There's Not a Therapeutic Sex Deduction?- 78-year-old William Halby is out of luck. The U.S. Tax Court ruled that our man owes back taxes because he improperly tried to deduct $300,000 over a five-year period for "medical" expenses. Turns out the medical expenses were merely purchases of sex toys and pornography and payments he made to prostitutes. Halby said the activities relieved his "depression," in that he had no other sexual outlets. The court reminded Mr. Halby-- a retired New York tax attorney-- that prostitution is indeed still illegal in New York. (Forbes)

TOP FIVE YOUR PET TURKEY KNOWS SOMETHING IS UP

1. Mrs. Cubbison stopped by and said to him, "See you in two weeks!"
2. Dairy Queen Blizzard for breakfast, Dairy Queen Blizzard for lunch...
3. Can't get his life insurance agent to return calls
4. Replaced his normal bed with platter
5. Getting a bath in butter doesn't seem right

HUNTER'S HUMOR by Tim Hunter

Most of the major cities and 9 states in Brazil were plunged into darkness for several hours

Tuesday after a massive power outage. Might want to have that 2016 Olympic torch set on high, just in case. And lots of extra fuel...

Vice-President Joe Biden spoke at Washington State military base on Tuesday. I believe his speech is almost half-way over by now...

First lady Michelle Obama appeared on "Sesame Street" this week. Burt and Ernie apparently had a disagreement and she arranged a Root Beer Summit.

New York Governor Paterson says that New York will be broke before Christmas. Sadly, over 300,000 rats will have to be laid off, right before the holidays.

Because New York is in such desperate need of cash, you may see a little more commercialism popping up. For example, the Statue of Liberty is now holding a Duraflame log.

On to ROCK NEWS -

AEROSMITH PROBLEMS NOT QUITE OVER YET…Aerosmith guitarist Joe Perry says that singer Steven Tyler's surprise appearance onstage during the Joe Perry Project's Tuesday night (November 10th) gig in New York City did not mean that Aerosmith's problems with Tyler are settled. Perry explained to us that Tyler and the group are not on the same page about their future: "He's never said he was leaving the band. He just said he wanted two years off to do his other projects. So the rest of the band, you know, we all want to work. I mean, the band's been playing together for 40 years and it's a really powerful rock band, and I don't want to see it just go to waste and I don't think any of the other guys do either. So I don't know what form that's gonna take, but anything's possible."

Tyler joined Perry's band onstage for the Aerosmith classic "Walk This Way," telling the audience, "I want you to know that I'm not leaving Aerosmith."

Perry told Billboard.com on Wednesday (November 11th) that he was surprised by Tyler's appearance, saying, "I was really blown away that he came to the show. But he showed up and was really anxious to come and sit in and play, so I figured, what the hell?"

It was only on Monday (November 9th) that Perry wrote on Twitter that Aerosmith was "positively looking for a new singer to work with."

Perry told Billboard.com that he has had one conference call with fellow Aerosmith members Brad Whitford, Joey Kramer and Tom Hamilton, but that their next step had not been decided.

Perry declined to discuss Internet rumors about Tyler's health, saying, "That's stuff you need to talk to Steven about."

Perry is touring behind his fifth solo album, Have Guitar, Will Travel, which came out last month.

Tensions began flaring within Aerosmith late last summer, after the band was forced to cancel a tour when Tyler was injured in a fall from a stage. It was later revealed that he had stopped communicating with his bandmates and had turned down other concert offers.

RON AND JO WOOD DIVORCED AFTER 24 YEARS OF MARRIAGE…Ron Wood and his wife of 24 years, Jo Wood, have been granted a divorce on the grounds of Ron's adulterous relationship with Russian waitress Ekaterina Ivanova. Neither party was present on Wednesday (November 11th) for the proceedings in London.

The Huffington Post reported that the first of two stages of the divorce has been granted, with the divorce becoming final in six weeks and a day. The Wood's were married in 1985, after being together for years prior to their nuptials. The couple has two children together, with Wood raising Jo's son from a previous relationship.

Wood had previously settled out of court with Jo, splitting his $37 million fortune. Jo will also walk away with the family's $19 million Kingston, England mansion, along with a monthly allowance. At last report, Jo was pressing Wood to also put his estimated $6.4 million home in County Kildare, Ireland on the market as part of the settlement.

PAUL McCARTNEY BRINGING 'NEW YORK CITY' TO PRIME TIME THIS THANKSGIVING…Paul McCartney will be going prime time when an hour-long portion of his new DVD Good Evening New York City will air on November 26th at 10 p.m. ET/PT on ABC-TV. The program will feature highlights from McCartney's historic opening gigs at New York's Citi Field. During the program McCartney will recall the summer 2009 shows, as well as the Beatles' 1965 and 1966 concerts at the Mets' former home -- Shea Stadium. The "Fab Four's" historic 1965 Shea concert will be represented with vintage footage and rare audio.

Guitarist Rusty Anderson, who's been part of McCartney's backing band for the past eight years and is featured throughout Good Evening New York City, says that he's given up trying to define what sets his boss apart from the rest: "Paul McCartney is a funny phenomenon in the respect that he's like one of the greatest songwriters of all time, one of the greatest singers of all time (and) one of the greatest musicians... He's recorded a jillion records and he's got the whole Beatles history, and I really don't have a box that I put him in -- I put him in a whole bunch of different boxes."

Paul McCartney's CD/DVD Good Evening New York City will be released on Tuesday (November 17th).

QUICK TAKES: ELTON JOHN, KINKS, GRATEFUL DEAD…Elton John's ongoing battle with e-coli bacterial infection and influenza has forced him and Billy Joel to postpone Saturday's show (November 14th) at Oakland, California's Oracle Arena. According to a message posted on eltonjohn.com, "Organizers of the event are working to establish a new date. All patrons who have purchased tickets for the Face 2 Face concert on Saturday, November 14th are being asked to hold on to their tickets until more information is available regarding the proposed rescheduled engagement."

The cancellation marks the fourth show of the Face 2 Face tour to be postponed due to Elton's illness.

Ray Davies says that a Kinks reunion of sorts is indeed happening... slowly. Davies, who's just released his latest solo collection, The Kinks Choral Collection, revealed that he's been recording with original Kinks drummer Mick Avory and later members Jim Rodford on bass and Ian Gibbons on keyboards: "We've got four, five new songs... and I'm just sort of getting them motivated and seeing what they're playing like, because I haven't played with the Kinks for eight or nine years." As for adding his brother and Kinks guitarist Dave Davies to the line-up following his 2004 stroke, Ray added: "If he's physically able to do it is another matter, because he was quite seriously ill. But we're in communication, and we're not disregarding it yet." (Billboard)

The University Of Santa Cruz is shopping around for an archivist to "take control" of the Grateful Dead's massive archive which has been donated to the school. Christine Bunting, who's the head of the school's Special Collections and Archive explained that being a Deadhead is not a prerequisite: "Being a fan would help. But we are looking for a professional, experienced person who has an interest in American popular culture."

She added that currently the librarians are several years away from fully cataloging the Dead's archive: "It's almost impossible to say exactly how much is in it. Individually, it's tens of thousands of pieces." (thestar.com)

The archive includes the band's business records, correspondence, photographs, and show files complete with tickets and backstage passes -- as well as promotional items such as flyers, posters, and shirts; press clippings; awards; and fan mail.

Also included will be legendary photos taken of the band both on and off stage, and unreleased videos of interviews and TV appearances. The archive will also exhibit past stage backdrops and stained glass pieces used by the Grateful Dead on stage.

That’s it for now, as always, if you can’t be good, be good at it and don’t get caught!!

Jonathan

Wednesday - November 11, 2009 -

noreply@blogger.com (Jonathan Knight) — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 17:58:00 +0000

ON THIS DAY

On this date in 1620, the pilgrims signed "The Mayflower Compact." It was an agreement allowing a local moving company to use the same name as their ship.

In 1889, Washington became a state. It's nickname is "The Evergreen State" because, frankly, moss and mold are green. State leaders thought, "What the heck! We'll already be getting Veterans' Day off!"

On this date in 1921, President Harding dedicated the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. He said it was perfect for him, because he was always bad with names.

TODAY IS

Is Thanksgiving really just two weeks from Thursday? Leonardo DiCaprio turns 35. He's getting really close to having to shave.

Calista Flockhart turns 45 today. Pretty much the same girl. Living in New York... still has a Ford (Harrison).

Demi Moore turns 47 today. I can still see her making pottery, standing by the wheel, molding that spinning clay... on Tuesdays. Yeah, I sneak into their back yard and quietly look inside the window of their art room.

Don't check the mail today. I'm trying to save you the embarrassment: don't check the mail! It's Veterans' Day.

Veterans Day history goes back to 1918, on the eleventh hour, of the eleventh day, in the eleventh month. It was on this day the Armistice was signed to end the fighting of World War I. Armistice Day was voted a federal holiday in 1938 later to be renamed and declared Veterans Day by President Nixon. Veterans Day not only honors the men and women who have served in the United States armed services, but also remembers the sacrifices made during World War I to ensure lasting peace. The President officiates a ceremony conducted at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, in Arlington National Cemetery, to remember all those who have fallen in battle over the years. Americans will commonly observe a moment of silence at 11:00 in the morning to show there respect for all who fought for peace.

On Veterans Day, Americans honor all living military veterans, including the many working moms who are veterans of military service. Indeed, the 1.8 million female veterans are more likely to work full-time than their civilian counterparts

THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW

• Aaron Carter is out of "Dancing With the Stars." The 21-year-old singer and his partner, Karina Smirnoff, were eliminated Tuesday.

• Superior Court Judge Mitchell Beckloff ruled Tuesday that Michael Jackson's father, Joe Jackson, does not stand to inherit any of his son's assets and cannot challenge the appointment of the executors. Meanwhile, Jackson's mother withdrew her objections to the appointment of two longtime Jackson associates as executors of the singer's will.

• The government says that last month was the third coldest October on record in the U.S.

• Madonna has become the new spokesperson for Italian fashion designer Dolce and Gabbana.

• Taylor Swift is the youngest singer nominated for the Entertainer of the Year award and the first solo female act since Faith Hill in 2000.

• James Woods is suing a Rhode Island hospital, saying their improper medical care resulted in the death of his brother.

• John Travolta says he's still undergoing daily counseling sessions to help him cope with the death of his son.

• Basketball Hall of Famer Kareem Abdul-Jabbar has been diagnosed with leukemia.

• Justin Timberlake and Jessica Biel are reportedly just "friends with benefits."

• Megan Fox says she constantly gets inspiration from her Marilyn Monroe tattoo.

• "Twilight" fans can go to MySpace on November 16th to watch the stars arrive on the red carpet at the world premiere of the next movie, "New Moon."

• Seal has a greatest hits CD coming out on December 8.

• Guitarist Joe Perry says it's true: Steven Tyler has pretty much quit Aerosmith. Tyler has been working on a solo project for a while.

• Tiffani Thiessen and her husband, artist and actor Brady Smith, are expecting their first baby next May.

• Just in time for the busy holiday travel season, Google is going to offer free WiFi at 47 of the nation's airports for the rest of the year.

• A man in Pennsylvania was able to identify the guy who mugged him after looking through his old yearbook. He recognized him as one of his old classmates from high school.

WEIRD NEWS

Ah That's A Spicy Meatball! - The name Joey Chestnut is well known in the world of competitive eating -- and he just added another title to his roster by winning Martorano's Masters Meatball Eating Championship in Las Vegas. Chestnut gobbled down 50 meatballs in 10 minutes -- a total of 6.25 pounds -- set a new world record and earned himself the first-place prize of $1,500. Pat "Deep Dish" Bertoletti finished in second place, just one meatball behind Chestnut. Chestnut's resume also includes hot dog, pizza and chicken wing contests. (myway.com)

Who's That Crazy Cyclist? - There's an enthusiastic cyclist causing an uproar in the nation's capitol. The guy has been spotted by police riding his bike on parkways where bikes aren't permitted, running red lights and stop signs and creating traffic backups that he could apparently care less about. So why not just arrest him? Well, it's a little complicated because the cyclist in question just happens to be Washington D.C. Mayor Adrian Fenty! The mayor trains with his competitive cycling team, D.C. Velo, on the streets of D.C. and in the Maryland suburbs several days a week, usually in the middle of the day. Fenty and his teammates were seen running red lights and stop signs as police officers used their flashing lights to block oncoming traffic. All this nonsense came to light after the mayor and his team started being videotaped by local TV news crews. Reportedly this infuriated the mayor. (WTOP News)

Need a Job? Learn To Mush! - There's not exactly a beckoning job market for dog sleders, but if you can mush a pack there is a job waiting for you. While the federal government that employs 19.7 million people, there is one -- exactly one -- dog mushing job. And it's available! The National Park Service is looking for a new kennels manager at Denali National Park and Preserve in Alaska, a job that in addition to running Denali's 31-animal dog kennel, includes mushing into one of America's great spans of wilderness. Depending on your skills, the pay range is $33,477 to $66,542 -- plus a healthy 25 percent cost of living adjustment -- more than what many mushers earn in a race season. A press release announcing the job says, "Our candidate must be a strong leader with supervisory skills and will be relied upon to provide all manner of services as a park ranger -- from rescuing visitors and patrolling the park wilderness to presenting educational programs and community outreach." As much as 70 percent of your winter will be spent mushing thousands of miles in the Denali backcountry -- ferrying supplies, bringing researchers to various parts of the park, hauling firewood and patrolling. " Those trips can last weeks by the way. But the successful applicant can rest assured nobody else in the country has the same job. Park managers had advice for those applying: "It's such a unique position; you have to be creative about how you sell yourself." (Anchorage Daily News)

Keep It In Your Pants Grandpa! - Okay there's a serious ewww factor on this story. Police in Holiday, Florida arrested a 94-year-old man for allegedly pleasuring himself in front of a 3-year-old boy. Albert Edward Ballough was charged with lewd and lascivious exhibition. Allegedly he was standing on his front porch doing his business while the boy was in his driveway. The child's mother said Ballough waved at the boy and the boy waved back. She then called police. (St. Petersburg Times)

The Frivolous Lawsuit Defined! - If you ever find yourself having to explain what a frivolous lawsuit is to someone, just tell them about the case of supermarket clerk Jonas Cruz in New York City. Cruz claims that a cat that belongs to the owner of the Cold Cut House Deli bit him and that an adverse reaction to the cat's salvia kept him out of work for a month. So he's suing -- for FIVE MILLION DOLLARS! Cruz's attorney, Steven Ehrlich, says his client was hospitalized immediately after the bite. The owner of the deli, who only identified himself as Frank claims the kitty, Katie, doesn't bother anybody, and that he was working in the store the whole day of the alleged attack, but no one complained about Katie. The lawsuit was filed with the Manhattan Supreme Court last week. Dude -- even if this is true-- $5 million?? Really? Seriously? (AHN News)

Stressed Out? Come Punch Me! - Chinese gym coach, Xiao (Shee- ou) Lin has launched an interesting sideline to earn a little extra dough. He's now renting himself out as a human punching bag for stressed out ladies. Lin says, "It fits in well with my day job. I needed more sparring partners anyway. I can make some money and also practice my self-defense skills and work on my fitness at the same time." Lin charges about $20 bucks for 30 minutes for his services and says he has already had two customers since launching his new business. He said, "The first woman was about 25-years-old. She paid for half an hour but soon got tired and spent the rest of her time just chatting to me. The second customer also only lasted for a few minutes but they both looked much happier afterwards. It does people good to let off some steam." (Liaoshen Evening Post)

Wrong Place, Wrong Time! - A 17-year-old Canadian teenager definitely knows what it means to be in the wrong place at the wrong time after he found himself trapped on a floating piece of ice with some undesirable company-- three polar bears! The boy had been on a hunting trip with his uncle when he became stuck on the ice. He shot one of the bears in self defense and was suffering from hypothermia when he was eventually rescued. The snowmobile the teen and his 67-year-old uncle were riding broke down on Southampton Island in the northern part of Hudson Bay. As they walked toward the tiny community of Coral Harbour-- 11 miles away-- to get help, they became separated. A large chunk of ice broke off, setting the teen adrift. The two other bears on the ice pan stayed away so he didn't shoot them. The uncle was picked up by searchers on snowmobiles and the teenager was spotted by a search plane later that day. (Ananova)

Chew On This! - There's a strange rash of strange crimes in several Connecticut towns. Inexplicably chewing gum thefts are on the rise! According to authorities, the number of people caught stealing chewing gum has noticeably increased recently. They believe the gum ends up on the black market, where it's harder to trace than some other stolen goods. In one of the largest recent cases, a 21-year-old Stratford man was charged with shoplifting about $800 worth of Orbit chewing gum from stores in Stratford, Bridgeport and Fairfield. In West Hartford, police have investigated four gum theft complaints since June, including one in which a 21-year-old Enfield man was charged with stealing $175 in gum from a local supermarket. Police say gum thieves want something they can sell quickly, often to make money to support a drug addiction. Gum? Really? There's really that big of a black market for gum? Hey kid -- want to buy a watch? No? How about some Juicy Fruit? (The Hartford Courant)

TOP FIVE THINGS I LIKE ABOUT A HOLIDAY IN THE MIDDLE OF THE WEEK

1. First time I've ever said, "Thank God it's Tuesday"
2. Gives me a chance to go check my mailbox for no reason
3. I never really felt Wednesdays should be a work day anyway
4. Instead of one 5-day week, two 2-day work weeks. This could catch on!
5. A chance to reflect upon middle of the week sales

HUNTER'S HUMOR by Tim Hunter

According to a new survey, New York City has the most rats in all of America. Some of them even have their own World Series rings.

The ski resort town of Breckenridge, Colorado, has passed a ballot measure that legalizes marijuana. They've also unveiled the new official city slogan: "Watch out for that tree!"

TICKET TO RIDE

Mel Leiding, an attorney from Anaheim, CA, and author of "How to Fight Your Traffic Ticket and Win," says he would rather be mugged than get a traffic ticket. Why? Getting mugged is faster, cheaper and has no long-term repercussions, such as increased insurance premiums, loss of a license or being forced to attend traffic school. Here are the only two legitimate ways you might be able to wiggle out of it:

Ask for a warning. When you're pulled over by a police officer for speeding, remain in your car. Never get out. When the officer comes to your car window, look contrite. Be very polite. Do apologize* profusely. And ask very nicely for a warning instead of a ticket. Never answer such questions as: "Do you know why I stopped you?" or "Do you know how fast you were going?" Say "I'm not sure," instead of saying something that admits your guilt.

No matter what the facts are, plead "not guilty" and ask for a court date. Never pay the ticket by mail since that is the same as admitting guilt. Even if you think the evidence is solidly against you * after all, there is that radar gun the cop was using * don't give up. There are many ways the police can make mistakes that will result in your ticket being dismissed.

How to avoid getting a speeding ticket in the first place:

1. Know the speed limit. While you want to keep up with traffic around you, try to not exceed the speed limit by more than nine mph.

2. Don't drive in the left lane. Use it only for passing. More tickets are given to drivers who are in the left lane than other lanes.

3. Realize that police officers with radar guns position themselves so you can't see them until it's too late, such as in parking lots or around a bend in the road.

4. If you see a police officer giving someone else a ticket or driving on the opposite side of the highway, don't assume you're safe. The police could still be tracking you.

5. Don't call attention to yourself. Keep the bumper stickers and vehicle modifications to a minimum. Make sure your car isn't loud.

On to ROCK NEWS –

STEVEN TYLER APPEARS ON STAGE WITH JOE PERRY, SAYS NOT QUITTING AEROSMITH…It seems like singer Steven Tyler might not be quitting Aerosmith after all. Pulse of Radio can report that during guitarist Joe Perry's show at Irving Plaza in New York City last night (November 10th) with his band, The Joe Perry Project, Tyler made a surprise appearance during the encore. Tyler said he wasn't quitting Aerosmith and then said some nice words about Perry before singing "Walk This Way" with the band. Tyler then left the stage and Perry closed out the show.

This surprise appearance seems to be a reversal after Perry wrote on his Twitter page Monday, "Aerosmith is positively looking for a new singer to work with. You just can't take 40 years of experience and throw it in the bin!" He later added, "Band is playing hotter than ever and our songs need to be played live! Don't despair; Aerosmith not splitting up. Promise that's the last you'll hear from me on the subject till we gear up again."

Tyler himself had been silent on the split ever since telling Classic Rock magazine last week that he planned to work on "Brand Tyler." His daughter Mia took to Twitter to respond to Perry, writing, "They are in their 60s now. Let them do what they wanna do! & can someone please tell (Joe Perry) that gossiping on Twitter is uncalled (for)!"

The rift between Tyler and the rest of the band had been brewing for some time, with the singer hiring his own management and not speaking or traveling with his bandmates during recent shows in Hawaii and the United Arab Emirates.

Tensions flared after Tyler fell from a stage in South Dakota last August, causing the band to scrap a U.S. summer tour and shelve recording plans.

Perry has said in interviews that he and Tyler have not written music together in a decade, and that the vocalist hung up on him during their last phone call.

Both Perry and guitarist Brad Whitford have discussed getting a new singer, although drummer Joey Kramer told a Connecticut radio station that some of their comments had been "misquoted."

METALLICA PLANNING ANOTHER DVD RELEASE…Metallica is planning another DVD release. According to Blabbermouth.net, the band's Canadian concerts in Quebec City and Ottawa on October 31st, November 1st and November 3rd were professionally filmed by longtime Metallica video director Wayne Isham, with drummer Lars Ulrich telling the crowd from the stage at the second Quebec City show, "I couldn't think of a better city for Metallica to film a DVD." Metallica is releasing a concert DVD in France next Tuesday (November 17th) that was shot in that country. Although it will not be available in U.S. stores, French For One Night can be purchased through the band's website.

There's no word on when the Canadian-shot DVD will surface, and if it will be a Canada-only release.

Meanwhile, Metallica has announced five shows in South and Central America for early 2010, with the band visiting two cities -- Panama City, Panama, and San Jose, Costa Rica -- that it has never played before. The group will also hit Lima, Peru, Bogota, Columbia and Caracas, Venezuela. All the shows are in March except for Lima, which takes place on January 19th.

Metallica next plays on Thursday (November 12th) in Albany, New York, before headlining two sold-out gigs at New York City's Madison Square Garden on the 14th and 15th.

SLASH AND WIFE SETTLE REAL ESTATE LAWSUIT…Velvet Revolver guitarist Slash, real name Saul Hudson, and his wife Perla have settled their lawsuit against real estate agent Gregory Holcomb and Sotheby's International Realty, according to the Contra Costa Times. The Hudsons sued the realtors for more than $500,000 they claim they lost in a transaction involving a Hollywood Hills home. Although the settlement was reached in September, the court papers were not made public until now and terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Slash and his wife sued the realtors in November 2007, alleging that the home they had purchased was much smaller than the size it was listed at, and that the parking situation was not what had been described to them, among other issues.

The Hudsons bought the house in January 2006 and then sold it at a loss of half a million dollars in November 2007 without ever moving in.

Defense attorneys denied any wrongdoing on the part of Holcomb or Sotheby's. Holcomb himself made a commission of $124,000 on the sale.

ROGER DALTREY CANCELS BALTIMORE GIG DUE TO VOCAL PROBLEMS…Roger Daltrey canceled last night's concert (November 10th) at Baltimore's Lyric Theater due to a throat issue. Although Daltrey has been struggling through vocal troubles during his Use It Or Lose It solo tour, last night's show was the first gig to be canceled.

A statement was issued saying: "It is with great regret that Roger Daltrey has canceled his Baltimore show on November 10th at The Lyric Theater due to a throat issue. Roger has been advised against performing and the singer has reluctantly complied. He thanks Baltimore fans for their understanding and support, and looks forward to recommencing the tour as soon as possible. Ticket holders are advised to keep their tickets and wait until further details are announced."

There's been no word as to any postponement of tonight's (November 11th) show at Montclair, New Jersey at the Wellmont Theatre.

Daltrey says that when he first began releasing solo albums in 1973, it was only to bide time between Who projects -- and was never given the same amount of energy or importance as anything related to the Who: "And when the Who resurfaced, it was all put back in a cupboard. Y'know, it was really a weird period for me, because the record companies were kind of nervous of getting totally behind me 'cause they thought I would leave the Who. Little did they know me, I didn't have any ego to be a solo person at all. It's my band, how can I leave my own band (laughs)" )

'THE BEATLES ON RECORD' COMING TO HISTORY CHANNEL THIS MONTH…An expanded version of the DVD sold as part of the Beatles box set called The Beatles On Record will air on the History Channel on November 25th at 10 p.m. The show extends the 13 documentaries which chronicle the original Beatles albums, and features over 60 songs, rarely seen footage and images from the group's archives -- along with never-before-heard outtakes of conversation from the original recording sessions.

Additional airings of the show will be announced soon across the A&E Television Networks. The special premiered on Britain's BBC 4 on September 5th in conjunction with the group's catalogue being reissued.

Paul McCartney says that like the rest of us, he's still astonished at the legacy the Beatles have left behind: "Y'know, I'm very proud of everything we did with the Beatles, uh . . . In truth, looking back, I kinda can't believe it, 'cause we were just working each day, year in, year out, making records now that it's over -- the Beatles is a body of work now. So I can look back on it now dispassionately and just judge it for what it is, and I think it's fine. I'm kind of amazed we did it."

The Beatles On Record is directed by Bob Smeaton, who directed the 1995 Beatles Anthology series, Festival Express, as well as many installments of the VH1's Classic Albums series.

QUICK TAKES….Out now on DVD is a remastered version of the Rolling Stones' 1991 concert film At The Max, which documented highlights from the band's 1990 European Urban Jungle tour in support of their 1989 Steel Wheels album.

Crosby, Stills, & Nash, John Mellencamp, Dave Matthews, Wilco, and Red Hot Chili Peppers will perform in tribute to Neil Young at the 2010 MusiCare's Person of the Year gala. The ceremony takes place on January 29th at the Los Angeles Convention Center. (Rolling Stone)

The tracklisting to At The Max is: "Intro: Continental Drift," "Start Me Up," "Sad Sad Sad," "Tumbling Dice," "Ruby Tuesday," "Rock And A Hard Place," "Honky Tonk Women," "You Can't Always Get What You Want," "Happy," "Paint It Black," "2,000 Light Years From Home," "Sympathy For The Devil," "Street Fighting Man," "It's Only Rock 'N' Roll," "Brown Sugar," and "(I Can't Get No) Satisfaction." (Vintage Vinyl News)

Janis Joplin will be saluted at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland. This week some of Joplin's friends and colleagues will be taking part in discussions sponsored by the Rock Hall at Case Western Reserve University. Among the notables will be her siblings, Jefferson Airplane and Hot Tuna guitarist Jorma Kaukonen, among others. On Saturday (November 14th) a tribute show will be held at the Rock Hall featuring, Lucinda Williams, Country Joe McDonald, and songwriter Bob Neuwirth, who co-wrote the Joplin classic, "Mercedes Benz." (The Associated Press)

A Rolling Stone Reader's List has named Billy Joel's 1976 standard "New York State Of Mind" the Top New York Song.

The Top 15 New York Songs according to list:
1. Billy Joel -- "New York State Of Mind"
2. Ryan Adams -- "New York, New York"
3. Nas -- "N.Y. State Of Mind"
4. U2 -- "New York"
5. Jay-Z ft. Alicia Keys -- "Empire State Of Mind"
6. Don Henley -- "New York Minute"
7. the Strokes -- "New York City Cops"
8. They Might Be Giants -- "New York City"
9. Bruce Springsteen -- "New York City Serenade"
10. Genesis -- "Back In N.Y.C"
11. Sting -- "Englishman In New York"
12. Beastie Boys -- "An Open Letter To NYC"
13. R.E.M. -- "Leaving New York"
14. Harry Nilsson -- "I Guess The Lord Must Be In New York City"
15. Simon & Garfunkel -- "The Only Living Boy In New York"

That’s it for now, as always, if you can’t be good, be good at it and don’t get caught!!

Jonathan

Tuesday - November 10, 2009 -

noreply@blogger.com (Jonathan Knight) — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 16:41:00 +0000

ON THIS DAY

On this date in 1801, the state of Kentucky outlawed dueling. It was actually, because of a typo. They were originally trying to outlaw drooling.

On this date in 1871, Stanley found Livington in Africa. After years of searching, the man they were looking for was finally found. They sound like Democrats.

In 1891, the Women's Temperance League met in Boston and voted to eliminate the "Designated Pitcher of Beer" rule.

The U.S. Marine Corps Day was established way back in 1775, to augment naval forces in the Revolutionary War. The recruiting headquarters was set up by Captain Samuel Nicholas in the Tun Tavern on Water Street in Philadelphia, which is considered to be the birthplace of the Marines. After success in many campaigns, the Corps was abolished at the close of the Revolutionary War for reasons of economy. On July 11, 1798, Congress ordered the creation of the Corps, named it the United States Marine Corps and directed that it be available for service under the Secretary of the Navy. Here are some famous U.S. Marines:

Colonel John Glenn: U.S. Senator (D-OH) for four terms starting in 1974; He became the oldest person to travel into space in 1998.

Ed McMahon: Flew more than 80 missions as a Marine fighter pilot in World War II and Korea before sitting on Carson's couch.

Bea Arthur: Before "Golden Girls," Arthur did a hitch with the Marines during World War II.

Corporal Gene Hackman: served six years from 1946-1952 in China, Japan and Hawaii; 2-time Oscar-winning actor for his roles in "The French Connection" and "Unforgiven."

Lieutenant Colonel Oliver North: became well-known during the Iran-Contra hearings, but has since made a name for himself as a host on Fox News.

F. Lee Bailey: Marine pilot; well-known lawyer.

Pete Wilson: former governor of California.

David N. Dinkins: first African-American Mayor of New York City (1990-1993).

Dan Rather: 60 Minutes (1975-1981); CBS Evening News (1981-2005).

Bernard Shaw: CNN Evening News.

Keith Jackson: "Voice of the NCAA," college football announcer.

Ken Norton: former Heavyweight Boxing Champion, 3-time All-Marine Boxing Champion.

Harvey Keitel: served in Lebanon; Reservoir Dogs, and Pulp Fiction.

Steve McQueen: enlisted and served as a mechanic/tank driver for three years. Television and film actor, "The Thomas Crown Affair" and "Papillon."

Drew Carey: served in the USMCR from 1981-1986; actor and comedian, "The Drew Carey Show" and "Who's Line is it Anyway?"

In 1969, the TV show "Sesame Street" debuted on public televion. Jim Henson had a hand in the puppets... literally. Critics were quick to give it an "A"... then a "B"... then a "C".

The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald happened on November 10, 1975. Yep, 33 years ago, a ship went down and Gordon Lightfoot's career went up.

TODAY IS

Actress Brittany Murphy turns 32 today. She's got all the sex appeal of a Brittany with the edginess of a Murphy.

MacKenzie Phillips ("One Day At a Time") celebrates her 50th birthday, in spite of her best efforts.

THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW

Steven Tyler has quit Aerosmith, according to the band's guitarist Joe Perry. In August, Tyler broke his shoulder after falling off stage while performing in South Dakota, and the group was forced to scrap the remainder of its summer tour.

Mya was the top scorer Monday on "Dancing With the Stars." She finished a point away from perfect, earning 59 points.

The Honolulu Symphony has canceled it's concerts for the rest of the year and filing for bankruptcy, due to a drop in donations.

A reality show miniseries about the Jackson family will premiere December 13 on A&E.

Eddie Cibrian says he's going to sue Life & Style magazine for claiming that he is cheating on lover LeAnn Rimes.

Monday was the 5th birthday of Mozilla's Firefox browser.

Jennifer Lopez is suing her ex-husband Ojani Noa after hearing that's running around Hollywood, shopping around a proposed feature film called "How I Married Jennifer Lopez."

Former football star Lawrence Taylor was been released on bond following his arrest in a Miami-area traffic accident last weekend. According to Miami-Dade County jail records, Taylor was charged Sunday with leaving the scene of an accident with property damage, a second-degree misdemeanor.

Michael Jackson's dad, Joe, has requested a "stipend" from the estate of his most famous son.

Usher's divorce has been finalized. He's single again, girls!

Rue McClanahan from "The Golden Girls" had a heart bypass surgery and is said to be doing fine. She's 75.

Kenny Chesney is going to release a 3-D concert movie next spring.

Quite an uproar down under where Australian music critics are jumping all over the fact that Britney Spears is apparently doing some lip-synching in her current concert tour.

The following jobs are growing so quickly that all 10 made the Bureau of Labor Statistics' list of the 30 fastest-growing jobs through 2014. But just as importantly, they topped the fastest-growing list in terms of salary. Here are the best of the best:

Computer systems software engineer -- $81,140
Computer applications software engineer -- $76,310
Biomedical engineer -- $70,520
Physician assistant -- $69,250
Environmental engineer -- $67,620
Computer systems analyst -- $67,520
Database administrator -- $61,950
Physical therapist -- $61,560
Network systems and data communication analyst -- $61,250
Hydrologist -- $60,880

WEIRD NEWS

I Lie To Everyone! - In Waco, Texas, 24-year-old Trista Joy Lathern had horrible news to share with her husband and friends. She had been diagnosed with breast cancer and would have to undergo the rigors of chemotherapy. She then watched as her friends got together and raised $10,000 for her at a benefit to pay for breast-augmentation and reconstruction surgery. The only problem was -- none of this was true. Lathern had lied to everybody. Oh she used the money for a boob job -- but never had cancer. So she's been arrested on fraud charges and on the day of her arrest, her husband, William Lathern, filed to have their marriage annulled, alleging that she induced him to get married "by fraud." The couple only married last April but have two sons, ages 5 and 3, together. The annulment petition says that William Lathern, who is seeking custody of the boys, says he was coerced into the marriage with the cancer story. (The Waco Tribune)

Oh Those Crazy Kids - In New South Wales a mother has given birth to a healthy baby boy. What makes it news is that she's 12 and the father is 15! The NSW Department of Community Services apologized when it was revealed the girl's father had warned officials his daughter was sleeping with her boyfriend at her mother's house and they apparently did nothing. And yes -- that makes her 11 when the child was conceived. Community Services is continuing to work with the girl, her mother and baby to ensure they are well supported. In an interview to be published in Woman's Day the girl's father is quoted as saying he did not think his daughter, now 12, was up to the task of being a mother. He said, ''She is only a baby herself and now she's got a baby,'' he said. ''She has no maternal instincts at all.'' (The Age)

Here Boy, Here Boy! - Better be careful next time you lose your dog and think you see him under your car. In Land O' Lakes, Florida, 38-year-old Joesph Cannistra was outside his home about 12:30 am looking for his dog, when he thought he saw his pet lying underneath his car. Oh there was an animal under the car alright -- just not a dog. Turns out it was a five foot alligator which bit both of Joe's hands when he reached underneath the car! He was taken to University Community Hospital, where he received stitches on both hands and was then released. The alligator was captured and then euthanized. No word on the dog. (ABC News)

Miracle Suicide Survival - 28-year-old Adrian Rawn is a former water-polo star from the Naval Academy. But he got depressed and decided he no longer wanted to live. So he jumped 212 feet off the George Washington Bridge into the 55-degree waters of the Hudson River -- and amazingly survived. He says he suddenly was overcome with the will to live and so inexplicably swam to New Jersey. He took the plunge without so much as a pause after abruptly stopping his car on the bridge's lower level at about 11:30 a.m. But he made it to shore and was listed in serious condition at Hackensack University Medical Center. Mike Schofield, his Naval Academy water-polo coach of four years was not surprised Adrian survived saying, "If anybody could do that and swim to shore, that would be Adrian." His death-defying leap took place one day after he was arrested and charged with drunkenly beating up a cab driver in a fare dispute. (New York Post)

The Economy Driving People To Do Really Stupid Things - The economy is apparently driving people to do really stupid things out of desperation. Faced with the economic downturn and difficulty getting credit for his Dodge dealership, owner Ken Zangara of Albuquerque, New Mexico says he turned to gambling last year to try to win enough money to keep the business going. As you can imagine this proved to be a very bad idea and Zangara racked up $250,000 in gambling losses. So now he's filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy and had to close his doors. Zangara has been recognized for his support of local charities and was involved in politics but the dealership had been under investigation by the state attorney general's office for numerous consumer complaints over alleged illegal business practices. (Albuquerque Journal)

Things Are Tough All Over - Looks like things are tough all over -- even if you're a graffiti artist. Police in Palm Bay, Florida say they found a spray-painted creation with a note left for potential critics as to why the work wasn't finished. The artist painted the words "ran out of purple" on the white concrete wall next to an incomplete bright purple piece that read "Solo." If found the artist would face a criminal mischief charge. The damage was estimated at about $200. (Florida Today)

Oldest Divorce In the World! - An elderly British couple has just set a new world record -- although not one to really celebrate. At 98-years old each-- Bertie and Jessie Wood were married for 36 years, and have just been named the oldest couple in the world to get a divorce!! They were married in 1972, having both ended previous marriages. Mrs. Wood now lives in a care home but Mr. Wood died shortly before he turned 99. Mrs Wood's daughter Pauline Rowe, 65, refused to discuss the split saying, "It's too hurtful to talk about." (Ananova)

TOP FIVE REASONS I DID SO BADLY ON THIS WEEK'S FOOTBALL POOL

1. Wow... I did pick the Philadelphia Phillies
2. Heads or Tails technique seriously failed me
3. Hey, compared to last week, 1 for 13 is pretty good
4. My wife had the flu. Too sick to hold pen and pick for me
5. "Which animal would win?" theory sometimes lets me down

HUNTER'S HUMOR by Tim Hunter

Nancy Pelosi passed one in congress over the weekend... AND she got the healthcare bill through!

It's hard to believe that the famous Berlin Wall fell 20 years ago this week. It's not surprising that it fell exactly one day after the warranty had expired.

The price of gold continues to skyrocket, which hurts the American dollar. In fact, the dollar's value now falls somewhere between the Canadian dollar and a roll of Charmin.

On to ROCK NEWS –

METALLICA FRONTMAN NEGOTIATING WITH COUNTY OVER HIKING TRAIL…Metallica frontman James Hetfield is reportedly working with parks authorities in Marin County to possibly create a new hiking trail that would skirt around a huge wall that Hetfield built on his property last summer to keep hikers and bike riders out. According to the Contra Costa Times, the proposed trail would serve as an alternate route to the Luiz Ranch Fire Trail, which crosses Hetfield's property and was used for years by people before the singer/guitarist bought the land. One potential route would require Hetfield to allow partial access to his property.

If negotiations are successful, the county wants to begin construction on the trail next summer for a spring 2011 opening, with costs estimated at $200,000.

County supervisor Steve Kinsey told the Times that the county is talking with Hetfield about how much of his land might be needed, adding that the Rock and Roll Hall of Famer is "open to it."

Scott Hochstrasser, who Hetfield has hired as a land use consultant, said that the musician is "truly interested in being part of the solution, not the problem. He is a community-oriented kind of guy."

Hetfield angered local bikers, hikers and horse riders when he erected the eight-foot-tall corrugated metal fence last summer. Locals claimed it blocked access to a fire road that had been left open for decades by the previous owners.

The contractor hired to put up the fence said that Hetfield was concerned about vandalism and damage on his property. Hetfield bought the property in 1999 and gave up more than 430 acres in 2002 to the county for development.

THE DOORS RELEASE HISTORIC NEW YORK CITY RUN…Out today (November 10th) is the Doors' Live In New York, a six-disc box set featuring the band's four concerts at New York City's Felt Forum -- the theater within Madison Square Garden. The dates marked the band's last ever Manhattan gigs and were recorded on January 17th and 18th 1970, while the band was promoting their then-new album Morrison Hotel. Live In New York features 90 tracks -- nearly a third of which have never been officially released.

John Densmore and Robbie Krieger recalled that during this point of the band's run, Jim Morrison's alcoholism was definitely a detriment to the Doors' creativity: "As Jim's drinking increased the quality decreased... The three of us were friends. John, Ray (Manzarek), and Robbie were friends, and Jim had his drinkin' buddies, you know. It kinda kept us apart. Whenever we'd get together to make music we were friends, but you know, we couldn't hang out with him otherwise because it was too painful, you know?"

Ray Manzarek believes that as the band's music ages, it is probably better understood than when it was first recorded: "I think the time has allowed them to digest the Jungian/Freudian aspect of the Doors songs. I think they've gotten into the depth of the songs a lot more than back in the '60s, and understand it from an intellectual perspective, and are just as wild as the people were in the '60s. I'm surprised at, you know, how uninhibited and how crazy and Dionysian they can actually be."

The complete tracklisting for The Doors: Live In New York is:

Disc 1 -- January 17, 1970 (First Show)

1. Start Of Show
2. "Roadhouse Blues"
3. "Ship Of Fools"
4. "Break On Through (To The Other Side)"
5. Tuning
6. "Peace Frog"
7. "Blue Sunday"
8. "Alabama Song (Whisky Bar)"
9. "Back Door Man"
10. "Love Hides"
11. "Five To One"
12. Tuning/Breather
13. "Who Do You Love"
14. "Little Red Rooster"
15. "Money"
16. Tuning
17. "Light My Fire"
18. More, More, More
19. "Soul Kitchen"
20. End Of Show

Disc 2 -- January 17, 1970 (Second Show)

1. Start Show 2
2. Jim "How Ya Doing?"
3. "Roadhouse Blues"
4. "Break On Through (To The Other Side)"
5. "Ship Of Fools"
6. "Crawling King Snake"
7. "Alabama Song (Whisky Bar)"
8. "Back Door Man"
9. "Five To One"
10. Pretty Neat, Pretty Good
11. "Build Me A Woman"
12. Tuning/Breather
13. "Who Do You Love"
14. Tuning/Breather
15. "Wild Child"
16. Cheering/Tuning
17. "When The Music's Over"

Disc 3 -- January 17, 1970 (Second Show -- continued)

1. Tuning/Breather
2. "Light My Fire"
3. Hey, Mr. Light Man!
4. "Soul Kitchen"
5. Jim's Fish Joke
6. "The End"
7. End Of Show

Disc 4 -- January 18, 1970 (Third Show)

1. Start Show 3
2. "Roadhouse Blues"
3. "Ship Of Fools"
4. "Break On Through (To The Other Side)"
5. Tuning/Breather
6. "Universal Mind"
7. "Alabama Song (Whisky Bar)"-- False Start
8. "Alabama Song (Whisky Bar)"
9. "Back Door Man"
10. "Five To One"
11. Tuning/Breather
12. "Moonlight Drive"
13. "Who Do You Love"
14. Calling Out For Songs
15. "Money"
16. Tuning/Breather
17. "Light My Fire"
18. More, More More
19. "When The Music's Over"
20. Good Night -- End Show

Disc 5 -- January 18, 1970 (Fourth Show)

1. Start Show 4
2. "Roadhouse Blues"
3. "Peace Frog"
4. "Alabama Song (Whisky Bar)"
5. "Back Door Man"
6. "Five To One"
7. We Have A Special Treat
8. "Celebration Of The Lizard"
9. Alright Let's Boogie
10. "Build Me A Woman"
11. "When The Music's Over"
12. More, More, More

Disc 6 -- January 18, 1970 (Fourth Show -- continued)

1. "Soul Kitchen"
2. For Fear Of Getting Too Patriotic
3. Petition The Lord With Prayer
4. "Light My Fire"
5. Only When The Moon Comes Out
6. "Close To You"
7. The Encore Begins
8. "Rock Me"
9. What To Do Next?
10. "Going To N.Y. Blues"
11. Tuning/Breather
12. "Maggie M'Gill"
13. Tuning/Breather
14. "Gloria"/End Of Show

BILLY IDOL TO RELEASE FIRST LIVE DVD…Billy Idol will release his first live DVD, called In Super Overdrive Live on November 17th. The disc, which runs over 70 minutes, is also available and Blu-Ray and features such Idol classics as "Dancing With Myself, "Flesh For Fantasy," "Rebel Yell," "White Wedding," and "Eyes Without A Face."

In Super Overdrive Live was filmed at the Congress Theater in Chicago, and was originally aired in July as part of the PBS Soundstage series.

Alongside assorted solo and early Generation X tracks, the DVD features two previously unreleased tracks by Idol -- "Touch My Love" and "Cry."

The disc features Idol's longtime guitarist and musical partner Steve Stevens.

Idol promises that there won't be a point in the near future when he'll be slowing down: "The Strokes song, 'The End Has No End,' is my favorite. It's never gonna, it's never over! It's only over when Billy Idol says it's over. I hadn't said it's over yet (laughs). Now look, I want this fight to go on, you know what I mean?"

BON JOVI UNVEILS 'THE CIRCLE' TODAY…Bon Jovi is out with its new album today (Tuesday, November 10th) -- the follow-up to 2007's Lost Highway. Bon Jovi has been all over NBC plugging the set, along with the lead single, "We Weren't Born To Follow." The group started writing songs for the album last year before playing some of them for producer John Shanks. Before too long, there were enough tracks to fill nearly three albums. Singer Jon Bon Jovi tells us how the tracks came together, as well as the inspirations behind some of the record: "We would go in with two or three songs and four songs at a clip with Shanks whenever he was available, but time was passing and you were writing more and more and more about the subject matter -- world's changing, the president's being elected, etc. Twenty-eight songs later and nine months later -- after the protest marches in Iran and doing the 'Stand By Me' in Farsi with that kid Andy from Iran, we write 'Born To Follow,' and we say, 'That's our bookends. I think we've got a statement. So, let's go with a studio record.'"

Jon Bon Jovi tells us about the tone of The Circle: "I think it's a real album, but it's told from an optimistic point of view because there's always that thread of optimism. And I think it has to do with as long as you've known me I always saw the glass as half full. You always find a reason to wake up in the morning, and a lot of that had to do with where we brought up and at the time where we were born and raised. And that optimism was there in middle-class, white New Jersey."

Bon Jovi kicks off a tour in early 2010.

The new Bon Jovi documentary, called When We Were Beautiful, recently aired on Showtime. A book of the same name came out this week featuring exclusive photographs, along with stories about the band.

The New Jersey rockers will perform on NBC's Today show on tomorrow (Wednesday, November 11th).

STEPHEN STILLS WRITING HIS MEMOIRS…Stephen Stills is following in the footsteps of Eric Clapton, Bob Dylan and Ron Wood by finally committing to writing his memoirs. Stills says that the primary motivation for writing his autobiography is actually down to nobody else getting the story right: "I've had four of five different biographies, and these guys show up and, y'know they go around and the try to make friends, and it comes out wrong. And that's why I'm going to write it myself, because it's not quite that. It's just off. A lot of it had to do with my own... basically not being ready to (laughs) really, y'know, write a memoir. Y'know, mid-'60s is a good place for that, and that's where I am."

There has been no release date set for Stills' book.

That’s it for now, as always, if you can’t be good, be good at it and don’t get caught!!

Jonathan

Monday - November 9, 2009 -

noreply@blogger.com (Jonathan Knight) — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 16:18:00 +0000

ON THIS DAY

On this date in 1620, the Puritans landed at Cape Cod and said, "The Christmas Sales have started already?" They wanted to get her on Veterans' Day weekend, so they could avoid the crowds around Thanksgiving.

In 1799, Napoleon became dictator of France. It was a short stay. He was a short guy. He wasn't as rude as most of France's leaders, but he was always a little short.

On this date in 1956, the Arizona drought was declared the worst in 700 years. It was so dry, the cactus were wearing canteens. Dogs would walk up to fire hydrants and leave an IOU. Etc.

TODAY IS

Nick Lachey turns 36 today. He used to be Mr. Jessica Simpson.

Lou Ferrigno, who played "The Incredible Hulk" on TV, turns 58 today. Did you know that he was Michael Jackson's personal trainer before he died?

Charles Robinson turns 64 today. Who? He played "Mac" on the old TV series, "Night Court." You may have heard of his famous court case, "Mac versus PC."

THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW

Randy Quaid and his wife have posted bond, so no worries about being extradited from Texas regarding that California hotel bill. The hotel is claiming they skipped out of thousands of dollars in charges.

Am I the only one, or does everyone know that the Sunday Night Football theme sany by Faith Hill is a reworking of the Joan Jett song "I Hate Myself For Loving You"?

Kate Moss is in Los Angeles helping Victoria Beckham pick out a new home.

Oprah's going to give up her syndicated show and move it to her own cable TV network to help it out in 2011.

Men's Health says a Pew Research Center survey found 35% of men ages 18 to 49 take daily naps.

Jimmy Buffett's first studio album in three years comes out December 8.

Nicholas Cage is suing his ex-money manager for $20 million.

Heidi Klum will host the annual Victoria's Secret show on November 19, just 6 weeks after giving birth to baby Lou Samuel.

Next time you're at Seattle's famous Pike Place market and you're looking at jewelry, that clerk may be Rainn Wilson's mom. That's what she does.

Fun little fact: Mariah Carey bought Marilyn Monroe's childhood piano for $600,000.

Elton John has been released from a London hospital after being treated for flu and an E. coli bacterial infection and says he'll return to the concert trail with Billy Joel on November 14th, in Oakland.

WEIRD NEWS

Dude -- What Is It You Are Not Exactly Getting Here? - In Vallejo, California, 24-year-old Samuel Botchvaroff was due in court to face auto theft charges. Problem was he had no way to get to court -- so he stole another car! Police re-arrested him after he left his arraignment at the Vallejo courthouse on the initial auto theft charges. Authorities were looking for the newly stolen car after its tracking system alerted them about the theft. They say Botchvaroff told officers his own car had been impounded and that he had no other way to get to his arraignment. Guess you do what you gotta do. (myway.com)

If At First You Don't Succeed, Try Again 949 More Times! - If at first you don't succeed, try, try again -- even if it takes 949 more times! In Seoul, South Korea, 68-year-old Cha Sa-soon FINALLY passed her written exam for a driver's license on her 950th attempt! No kidding. She has taken the test nearly every day since April 2005. The aspiring driver spent more than $4,200 in application fees, but until now had failed to score the minimum 60 out of a possible 100 points. She finally scored an even 60. Of course now she must pass a driving test before getting her license. (Korea Times)

Too Windy For Windmills? - I'm not quite sure I understand this. The wind-power company First Wind has been eyeing a western Maine site as a possible location for a new field of turbines. But the proposed Longfellow wind farm on Black Mountain looks like it may be a no-go -- because it's too windy up there! Company spokesperson Matthew Kearns told a public meeting in Rumford that their tests show that gusts atop Black Mountain are too strong for turbine engineering to handle. Sorry folks -- you've got too much wind for wind power. (Sun-Journal)

What Is This Retirement Thing You Speak Of? - Retirement plans across the country are drastically changing due to the crummy economy. According to a nationwide survey by the Pew Research Center's Social & Demographic Trends project, nearly four-in-ten adults who are working past the median retirement age of 62 say they have delayed their retirement because of the recession. Of workers ages 50 to 61, 63% say they might have to push back their expected retirement date because of current economic conditions. (Those under the age of 50 asked, "Retirement? What is this retirement thing you speak of?" Yahoo News)

You Go Atlanta! - Ah, the glorious city of Atlanta. Home of the Braves. Home of a wonderful world of southern gentility, a world-class music scene, and oh yeah-- 21,000 tons of environmental waste! Sorry Atlanta -- you may be the crown jewel of the Deep South but you've also just been named the most toxic city in America! That's due to your combination of air pollution and bad atmospheric chemicals. Actually, most major cities suffer from a range of unseen hazards. Contaminants can seep into the ground from bygone chemical spills, invisible leaks at industrial complexes discharge harmful substances into the air, or the normal course of business requires factories to expel toxins that eventually find their way to the water supply. Detroit came in second place and Houston was third. Rounding out the top ten are Chicago, Philadelphia, Cleveland, Los Angeles, Jacksonville, Florida, Baltimore and Portland. (Forbes)

Vanity -- Not A Good Trait For Burglars! - A very vain and very cocky burglar has shocked the local newspaper and authorities by offering up a better picture than his mug shot. In Swansea, Wales, 23-year-old Matthew Maynard said he was not pleased with the mug shot photo the South Wales Evening Post published of him so he first called to complain, then sent in a "better photo" of himself -- amazingly standing next to a police van. But police said Maynard's stunt is likely to backfire as the newspaper printed the photo on its front page. One officer said, "He thinks he is being clever by showing off like this, but we'll have him in soon now." (Sky News)

Taking It All Too Hard - In Lancaster, Ohio, 21-year-old Steven Locke apparently took things a little too hard after a 17-year-old girl rejected his advances for a date. So to retaliate, he went to the gravesite of the girl's mother, and destroyed it with a sledgehammer! The girl's mother, Connie Brown, died in 2002. The girl's grandmother, Mary Brown, says it took her five years to pay for Connie's headstone and now she has no idea how she'll afford a replacement. Locke confessed to the crime and has now been charged with vandalism, but the sheriff says additional charges could be filed. (10 TV News)

HUNTER'S HUMOR by Tim Hunter

A TV version of the movie "2012" is in the works. However, the ancient Mayan calendar predicts it'll be canceled after just two episodes.

Gee, a TV series about the world coming to an end. Isn't that called "The Nightly News"?

People are still talking about the election results in Maine. They approved medical marijuana, but voted down gay marriage. Closet pot smokers aren't exactly sure what to do!

"Sesame Street" is celebrating it's 40th birthday... although I think having Big Bird spell out the word, "prostate" was a bit much.

TOP FIVE SIGNS IT'S GOING TO BE A LONG FOOTBALL SEASON

1. Your favorite quarterback is out with a broken fingernail
2. New team name: The Forfeits
3. Team just took the field, all players forgot their helmets
4. New team colors: Pink and chartreuse
5. Head coach's great idea: every game, let the cheerleaders play a quarter

On to ROCK NEWS –

STEVEN TYLER HAS QUIT AEROSMITH, SAYS JOE PERRY…Aerosmith guitarist Joe Perry told the Las Vegas Sun on Friday (November 6th) that lead singer Steven Tyler has quit the band he co-founded nearly 40 years ago, following a recent concert in Abu Dhabi. Perry revealed to the newspaper, "Steven quit as far as I can tell. I don't know any more than you do about it. I got off the plane two nights ago. I saw online that Steven said that he was going to leave the band. I don't know for how long, indefinitely or whatever. Other than that, I don't know."

Tyler told Classic Rock magazine following the Middle East concert that he intended to work on "Brand Tyler" instead of a new Aerosmith record for the foreseeable future, saying, "I don't know what I'm doing yet, but it's definitely going to be something Steven Tyler: working on the brand of myself -- Brand Tyler."

Perry told the Sun that Tyler "has had no contact" with him or the other band members. Classic Rock reported that Tyler's dressing room at the Abu Dhabi gig was distant from the others, and that he did not interact with the rest of the group until they got onstage.

Perry said that he would like Aerosmith to continue, but admitted that he's not entirely sure how to proceed. He explained, "As far as replacing Steve, it's not just about that, it's also four guys that play extremely well together, and I'm not going to see that go to waste. I really don't know what path it's going to take at this point, but we'll probably find somebody else that will sing in those spots where we need a singer and then we'll be able to . . . move the vibe up a notch."

Things have been tense in the Aerosmith camp since early August, when a fall from a stage in South Dakota broke Tyler's shoulder and ended the band's summer tour. In the months since, internal strife has come to the surface, forcing Aerosmith to consider two options: going on hiatus or getting a new vocalist.

Perry told the Sun that he believed Tyler had been planning to leave for a while, saying, "Obviously he hasn't been giving 100 percent to this thing for a long time . . . To disregard his brothers to the point where we have to find out about it on the Internet -- it's like, 'See you later, Bud.' I still care for him as a person, or at least the person I used to know. But things change."

AC/DC FANS ASK BAND TO CHANGE SET LIST…AC/DC fans have written an open letter to the band at a website called acdcfans.net, asking the group to change their current live set list. The band's Black Ice tour, which began 13 months ago, has featured the same song selection in the same order since its start, with the exception of two additions in "Shot Down In Flames" and "Dog Eat Dog." The letter at the site reads in part, "On the current Black Ice World Tour, during which some of us having traveled across Europe, the United States and flown between the two continents . . . we have listened to you play the same great songs each and every night. We absolutely appreciate every song you play, but we can't help but wonder if the band is getting a little bored of playing the same songs night after night."

The letter continues, "Are you aware there are thousands of fans just like us . . . every one of them hoping that the band will play something other than songs geared towards casual fans? . . . So, we'd like you to consider changing the setlist. We won't be rude and say 'play this' or 'don't play that' -- we'll leave it to you to decide -- surprise us!"

Guitarist Angus Young told us a while back why the band always plays its biggest hits in concert: "You wanna play what people expect of you, you know? When I was young and you and I would go see someone, you know, I wanted to hear what I knew and what was, you know, my favorite tracks, you know? And I think it's the same for us, you know? If I went to see something like the Stones, you know, I want to hear, you know, (the) 'Jumpin' Jack Flash'-es, and I want to hear their hits. And I would suppose it would be the same for the Beatles in their time, you know? So, I've always viewed it as that."

AC/DC's current set list features five songs from 2008's Black Ice album, in addition to tried and true concert staples like "Hell's Bells," "Highway To Hell," "Back In Black," "You Shook Me All Night Long" and "Thunderstruck."

AC/DC wraps up its current North American tour on November 21st in Puerto Rico before heading to South America later this month and its home turf of Australia in early 2010. More touring is planned for next year as well.

The tour and Black Ice CD are the band's first in eight years.

OZZY OSBOURNE DOC NEAR COMPLETION…A documentary on the life and career of Ozzy Osbourne, titled Wreckage Of My Past, is now in post-production and is expected to be completed in the next few weeks.

The film will be the first release from Jacko Productions, a company started by Ozzy's son Jack, who co-executive produced the movie with his mother and Ozzy's manager, Sharon.

The documentary is tentatively due out in theaters in early 2010.

JON BON JOVI: TIMING WAS RIGHT FOR NEW ALBUM AND DOCUMENTARY…Bon Jovi is having quite a busy year. Between a new documentary, a published book, an upcoming tour and a new album coming out tomorrow (Tuesday, November 10th) the group has a lot going on right now -- not to mention a hit single with "We Weren't Born To Follow." But it wasn't all exactly planned that way. It ended up being a series of coincidences that took place, partly thanks to some good feedback the group received about its documentary from film producer Jane Rosenthal. Frontman Jon Bon Jovi tells us how it all came together: "The documentary, which I still wasn't sure how anybody would react to, we show at that Tribeca Film Festival. And I really did honestly -- even though Jane Rosenthal, God bless her, was telling me, 'This is really a great look inside to life on the road with a band. It's not a retrospective. It's not a concert film. It's told in the moment. This is something that's going to be well received.' And Showtime were the first ones through the door. So I didn't even look any farther with regard to maybe a theatrical or anything else beyond that. Well, that doc gets really well-received, and the single comes, and it looks like this convergence of brilliance.But it was a series of great mistakes all coming together at the same time. And here I am."

A greatest hits album with three new songs will be released next year.

The Circle features the single, "We Weren't Born To Follow." Bon Jovi just released a limited edition acoustic version of the song from Inside The Actors Studio. Details are at BonJovi.com.

Bon Jovi kicks off a tour in early 2010.

The new Bon Jovi documentary, called When We Were Beautiful, recently aired on Showtime. A book of the same name came out this week featuring exclusive photographs, along with stories about the band.

The New Jersey rockers will perform on NBC's Today show on Wednesday (November 11th).

Bon Jovi's most recent set, Lost Highway, came out in 2007.

DIRECTOR WANTS PAUL AND RINGO TO STAR IN 'YELLOW SUBMARINE' REMAKE…Robert Zemeckis, who's directing the upcoming 3D remake of the Beatles' legendary animated feature Yellow Submarine, would love for Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr to voice themselves in the film. Zemeckis, who'll be working with both the Beatles' company Apple and Disney on the project, told MTV.com, "We haven't gotten the word yet on the two surviving Beatles, whether they're interested in doing it or not."

Zemeckis added that obviously the two would be his first choice to voice the "Paul" and "Ringo" characters. In the original 1968 film, none of the Beatles voiced their own characters, relying instead on actors to provide the overly-Liverpudlian voices.

Zemeckis gave an update on the film, which is still in the scriptwriting stages: "I think it's a perfect example of a movie that can be re-envisioned in the digital cinema and be absolutely beyond spectacular. I call it, Yellow Submarine: The Digital Trip!"

That’s it for now, as always, if you can’t be good, be good at it and don’t get caught!!

Jonathan

Friday - November 6, 2009 -

noreply@blogger.com (Jonathan Knight) — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 16:30:00 +0000

ON THIS DAY -

On this date in 1860, Abraham Lincoln was elected our country's 16th president. As part of the job, he got the White House, a nice office and theater tickets.

In 1861, Jefferson Davis was elected president of the Confederacy. That automatically made him the coach of the South for the annual "North-South" game.

On this date in 1862, the first telegraph was sent from San Francisco to New York.

In 1869, the first college football game was played in New Jersey. I'm sure my great-great grandfather maintained the family tradition and missed that pick, too. Up until that time, guys got things done on Saturday afternoons in the fall.

TODAY IS

Rebecca Romjin turns 37 today... which is ironic, because we were just thinking of her in her birthday suit.

Ethan Hawke turns 39 today. Of course, these days, he's Uma-less.

Maria Shriver celebrates her 54th birthday today... on her cell phone.

Glen Frey hits #61 today. He's a member of the Eagles and occasionally gets down to the V.F.W. hall, too. Some say he's "Already gone," but "I can't tell you why."

Sally Field turns 63 today. She began her acting career years ago in a TV series called, "The Flying Nun." It was a much bigger hit than its rival, "The Cruising Priest."

I Love Nachos Day -- Did you know that the food most craved by pregnant women is nachos?

THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW

While "New Moon" star Robert Pattinson denies there's anything going on, US magazine reports that he and co-star Kristen Stewart spent the night together at the Chateau Marmont, where they were seen smooching and enjoying bagels for breakfast. One tabloid claims Kristen is claiming she's a lesbian in order to combat the rumor mill.

Sarah Palin is sitting down with Barbara Walters for a five-part interview series.

Kirstie Alley is going to star in a new A&E reality "docu-series" about her life as a single mom and her efforts to lose weight. The show will follow the actress at home with her teenage children, at work and as she launches a new weight-loss program.

Russell Brand says he's cutting his hair, with the hope it'll help him get more movie roles.

That not-so-secret sex tape featuring Colin Farrell and Playboy model Nicole Narain has been sent anonymously to the family of Colin's girlfriend.

Sears held some "Black Friday" sales last weekend, to try and boost sales. This weekend, Wal-Mart is having a go at it.

Rihanna has told Diane Sawyer that she's embarrassed that she was ever in love with Chris Brown.

Mariah Carey says she suffered "mental" and "emotional" abuse during her marriage to music mogul Tommy Mottola in an TV interview with Larry King.

Sandra Bullock and husband Jesse James are in a court battle with Jesse's ex, a porn star. They'd like full custody of Jesse's daughter. The mom smells money.

Fresh out of rehab, a tabloid is reporting that David Hasselhoff was seen drunk at a British Columbia casino last weekend.

WEIRD NEWS

Neither Rain, Nor Sleet, Nor Snow... - There's an old postal carrier's motto that says something about neither rain, nor sleet, nor snow, nor hail will prevent the mail from being delivered. Notice it doesn't say anything about being three times the legal limit. In Boynton Beach, Florida, 29-year-old mail carrier Kevin Crocilla was found slumped over the wheel of his mail truck. Someone called police thinking there was a medical problem or perhaps he was dead. No medical problem and no -- not dead. Just very, very drunk. When police asked him to step outside of his truck, he stumbled and had trouble completing a sobriety test because he couldn't keep his eyes open or his head straight. He blew a .264 on the Breathalyzer test -- over three times the legal limit allowed while driving -- and police charged him with driving under the influence. (Sun Sentinel)

Oh No -- Not the Salad Dressing! - In Boise, Idaho, 18-year-old Tiffany M. Wallace was arrested after she allegedly rammed her pickup into another car. But that's not the worst of it. She also -- dare I even say it-- hurled ranch salad dressing at the other vehicle! The driver of the other car told police the encounter began after he was cut off by Wallace. He said she later cut him off again, yelled at him and threw coins and plastic containers of ranch dressing at his car. The victim said Wallace later rammed his car at least three times in a parking lot. Well I at least hope it was "Cool Ranch!" (Idaho Statesman)

Wait A Minute Mr. Robber -- Don't I Know You? - In Erie, Pennsylvania, a man who was robbed of his jacket, cell phone, keys and $300 was left with the strange feeling that one of his two muggers looked awfully familiar. That would be because they went to school together about 15 years ago. Police arrested 30-year-old Anthony Williams after the victim pulled out some old yearbooks and figured out they both attended Central Career and Technical School in the mid-1990s. I guess attending Central Career and Technical School doesn't necessarily guarantee one a lucrative and successful career. (Erie Times-News)

The Teen On the Top of the Van: Final Chapter! - Maybe you remember the story we had a few weeks back about the mother in Albertville, Alabama who was arrested after being seen driving with her 13-year-old daughter sitting in a box on top of her mini-van. 37-year-old Jackie Knott reportedly told police the box wouldn't fit inside the van so her daughter was sitting inside to weigh it down on the roof. The teen was not hurt. And apparently the courts decided not to hurt her mom too much either. While the judge gave her 90-days in jail, she'll only have to serve five of those days since it would be such a hardship on her. She'll also have to complete 40 hours of community service, attend a parenting class and driving school followed by two years probation. (WAFF-TV News)

Hey What Are You Guys Doing Here... At My Funeral? - Those attending the funeral of 59-year-old bricklayer Ademir Jorge Goncalves in Brazil got the shock of their lives when Mr. Goncalves showed up! He had been identified him as the victim of a car crash but relatives had trouble identifying the body because it was badly disfigured. Turns out Mr. Goncalves had actually spent the night drinking with his friends. He didn't get word of his funeral until it was already happening so he ran off to stop it. The body was later correctly identified. (Ananova)

A Wedding Cake Catastrophe! - In Pembrey, England, Tony and Aimee West went all out for their wedding cake. They paid $500 bucks for what was supposed to be a three tier sponge cake decorated with white and dark chocolate icing and flowers. But just four hours before the evening reception was due to start Aimee discovered the cake company had forgotten to bake the cake. Aimee said, "They admitted their mistake and said, 'Don't worry, we'll get you a cake'. They turned up that evening and the cake was put on a table for all to see." All seemed to be well until the couple cut into the cake and took their first bites together. Turns out the "cake" was no cake at all. Just a bunch of Styrofoam covered with icing. Both bride and groom began choking -- an experience Aimee said was terribly embarrassing! So they took Creative Cakes to small claims court and were awarded $600 compensation. Karen Williams, who runs Creative Cakes said, "I explained I would be delivering an artificial cake - they are quite common at weddings these days." Really?? Not at any weddings I've been to! Who orders a fake cake? (Ananova)

Now You Can Rename a Desperate Teen! - Not sure if this is genius or just pathetic. In Sheboygan, Wisconsin, 19-year-old Calvin Gosz is unemployed and hard up for money. He's had no luck with the 10 to 15 job applications he's submitted in the last month and a half. So in an effort to raise some cash, he's auctioning off the right to change his legal name in an eBay auction that goes through Sunday. The auction, titled "I will legally change my name to anything," seeks a minimum bid of $5,000. While a handful of people are tracking the page -- so far there have been no bids. Calvin, who moved to Sheboygan from Florida in September said, "I'm hoping that it'll be like some rich guy that like doesn't know what to do with his money and is really bored." (Sheboygan Press)

Wonder What Caused This Accident - More proof that multitasking while driving is never a good idea. A truck driver in Boras, Sweden crashed his 18-wheeler and while fortunately not seriously hurt, he was pinned, immobile, in the wreckage until rescuers could get him out. Nobody knows for sure but police have an idea what caused the accident. When rescuers first saw him, they noted that the trapped driver's genitals were exposed and that his hand was clasped in his genital area. (The Stockholm Local)

TOP FIVE THINGS THE PILGRIMS WOULD SAY AROUND THIS TIME OF YEAR

1. "Goodness! They're still playing baseball in November!"
2. "Savages! That's the name for our new band: the Savages!"
3. (in your best John Wayne) "Hey there, pilgrim!"
4. "Wouldst thou also give us Friday off, too?"
5. "Here turkey, turkey, turkey"

HUNTER'S HUMOR by Tim Hunter

Alicia Keys now has her own jewelry line. Ironically, Jewel is now selling her own line of designer keys.

I'm a little confused with this whole Josh Duhamel thing. Is Fergie's husband being accused of cheating with a stripper or stripping with a cheater? Same thing? O.K., just checking.

Layoffs at Microsoft this week. When you get laid off at Microsoft, it's a little different. At Microsoft, instead of the door, they show you the Windows.

Yep, tough week to be a Democrat who's also a Phillies fans.

There is nothing so beautiful as watching the wind and rain knock the leaves off my trees and seeing them land in my neighbor's yard.

TOP FIVE SIGNS IT'S ALMOST THANKSGIVING

1. Several neighbors have their Christmas lights up
2. You've seen several turkeys taking out life insurance
3. It starts getting dark outside at lunch
4. You're just about done sneaking the leaves from your hard into your neighbor's yard
5. Jack O'Lanterns on your porch have so much mold, it looks like they need to shave

On to ROCK NEWS –

BEATLES NEWS ROUNDUP … In either the most ill-advised or ballsiest moves in recent music litigation history, the company being sued by EMI Records for illegally selling Beatles MP3's claims the tracks are actually NOT the copyright of the label. BlueBeat, the company selling the tracks illegally for 25 cents, actually stated that they hold the copyrights to the songs due to a process called "psycho-acoustic simulation." A Los Angeles federal judge set aside the laughable arguments by Hank Risan, the owner of BlueBeat whose defense was that "he -- and not EMI or the Beatles' Apple Corps. -- owns these sound recordings, because he re-recorded new versions of the songs using what he termed 'psycho-acoustic simulation.'"

Upon listening to BlueBeat's version of the Beatles' "Sun King," it's obvious that it's the same exact version as featured on the group's Abbey Road album.

A Los Angeles federal judge will now rule on whether BlueBeat actually owns new copyrights to the Beatles' sound recordings. A decision is expected in the near future.

Scott Mackenzie, a Dallas copyright attorney said, "They're hosed. That just doesn't make any sense. I don't even see the basis of their theory." (wired.com)

Paul McCartney was happy with the way his October 26th New York City tribute to composer Frank Loesser to benefit the Actor's Fund turned out. He posted a message on his official site (paulmccartney.com) talking about his performance of "On A Slow Boat To China" at the Minskoff Theatre, saying, "Normally I've got a guitar or a piano to help me out, but this time all I had was a hand mic but I had a great time all the same. The event raised more money than had been expected and will benefit members of the acting profession who have fallen on hard times. It was something completely different for me, but I knew the song from family sing-songs when I was a kid and I admire Frank Loesser's writing."

James McCartney, the 32-year-old son and youngest child of Paul and Linda McCartney, issued a press release talking about his recently launched musical career. James will be making his American debut with his band Light on November 14th in Fairfield, Iowa in connection with the David Lynch Foundation and the local Maharishi University of Management. James explained, "I have been playing music since I was nine and writing along the way. I met my band about a year ago. Producer David Kahne introduced us -- and my dad, Paul, helped... The music was inspired by the Beatles, Nirvana, the Cure, PJ Harvey, Radiohead -- and all good music. It is basically rock 'n 'roll, clean sounding, and vocal."

He shed some light on his musical development, saying, "My dad taught me guitar when I was nine. I play a Fender Stratocaster, which Carl Perkins gave me from the seventies, and a Gibson Les Paul that my dad gave me (which is) heart red."

James wrote about his still-unreleased debut album with his band -- which features some Liverpool musicians -- saying, "The words on the album refer to spirituality, love, family, trying to sort out one's own life, and many other things. I have written the songs over a ten-year period."

No release date is set for James McCartney's debut album.

JOHN FOGERTY TO PLAY PBS 'LIVE BY REQUEST' TOMORROW NIGHT…John Fogerty says that he's on pins-and-needles about tomorrow night's (November 7th) performance on PBS' Live By Request. Fogerty will be interacting with fans who'll be requesting songs and asking questions via Facebook, Twitter, and other social outlets. Fogerty admitted to Billboard, "It's pretty nerve-wracking, especially in this modern world. Way back in the old days, when the red light was on everything was live, and you really had to have it all together... That's what this show is going to be like. And then you add the thing that you're gonna be surprised by a request and I've got to turn around to the band and say, 'OK, here we go...'"

Still, Fogerty is ready to rise to the occasion and play some good old fashioned rock and roll for the masses: "It's gonna be fun, though. I did it one time before, and I remember getting very keyed up for it. Certainly that's what's going to happen this time. And once it's over there's something very satisfying about interacting with the fans."

Fogerty says that out of respect for both Creedence Clearwater Revival fans and the songs themselves, he tries to keep the song's live arrangements note-for-note as they were played on the record: "I just feel that because of the fact that touring, and even my career, has been so interrupted for long gaps of time, I think it's up to me to kind of reinforce the reverence that I have for those earlier songs -- and also, I think the way the audience treats them. So that's a way of explaining why when I do 'Bad Moon Rising,' it still sounds like 'Bad Moon Rising.'"

John Fogerty: Live By Request airs at 9 p.m. EST on PBS. Fogerty will perform on NBC's The Tonight Show With Conan O'Brien on Tuesday (November 10th)

John Fogerty tour dates (subject to change):
November 12 - Hollywood, CA - Kodak Theatre
November 14 - Primm, NV - Star Of The Desert Arena
November 16 - Denver, CO - Temple Hoyne Buell Theatre
November 18 - Minneapolis, MN - The State Theatre
November 19 - Milwaukee, WI - Riverside Theatre
November 21 - Chicago, IL - Auditorium Theatre
November 22 - Nashville, TN - Ryman Auditorium
November 24 - New York, NY - Beacon Theatre
November 25 - Newark, NJ - New Jersey Performing Arts Center
November 27 - Mashantucket, CT - MGM Grand At Foxwoods
November 28 - Upper Darby, PA - Tower Theatre
November 29 - Boston, MA - Orpheum Theatre

BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN WRITING HIS AUTOBIOGRAPHY???...Bruce Springsteen is reportedly writing his memoirs, according to The New York Post. An unnamed source said the project would be unparalleled in the rock world, saying, "It could be the biggest rock music autobiography of all time. He could get $9 million to $10 million for the world rights."

When pressed about the Springsteen-sanctioned trilogy Born To Run: The Bruce Springsteen Story, Glory Days, and Two Hearts: The Definitive Biography, 1972-2003, by rock journalist Dave Marsh, the source stated simply: "Springsteen is a better writer than Marsh."

A bidding war for the book is said to be strong enough to dwarf Keith Richards' $8 million advance from Little Brown for his upcoming autobiography and the $4 million Eric Clapton snagged for his 2008 memoir.

Springsteen, who has kept hundreds of notebooks and journals throughout his life, tested the autobiographical waters with the text to his 1998 book, Songs.

Springsteen has always aimed for his albums and tours to be more than just entertainment, and he hopes that his work will help inspire some type of dialogue among his audience: "People are looking for ways to have a dialogue about these ideas, about these issues. They're looking for ways to try to get a handle and make sense of what's happening, you know, and I think that music and film and art has a service to perform in that fashion. It can be one of its services."

Tomorrow night (November 7th), Springsteen and the E Street Band will kick off their two-night stand at New York City's Madison Square Garden by performing their 1973 album The Wild, The Innocent, & The E Street Shuffle in it's entirety, and on Sunday (November 8th) Springsteen will play his 1980 double album The River from start to finish.

GUNS N' ROSES MTV 'MOON MAN' SELLING FOR $13,500…A 1988 MTV Moon Man award for "Best New Artist In A Video," given to Guns N' Roses for their "Welcome To The Jungle" clip, has been acquired for sale by music memorabilia clearinghouse Rockaway Records.

The statue belonged to former Guns manager Alan Niven, who wrote an accompanying letter in which he says, "In 1988 this 'Moon Man' was presented to me in my capacity as manager of Guns n' Roses...it ought to have really been offered since the video 'concept' was mine -- but then it should have been presented to the talents I stole from -- the makers of the movies Midnight Cowboy, The Man Who Fell to Earth, and Clockwork Orange."

The award is available at the Rockaway site for a mere $13,500.

THE ROLLING STONES TO TOUR IN 2010???...Ron Wood hinted that the Rolling Stones are gearing up for their first road trek in three years, telling BBC 6 Music, "It's all very good. I saw Mick (Jagger) and Charlie (Watts) last week. Everything is great." When asked about the rumored tour, Wood added that he was confident that the Stones will be out on the road in 2010, adding, "Let's hope so, yeah!"

Unconfirmed rumors claim that the Stones are in negotiations to close the UK's Glastonbury Festival in late June.

The Stones' 2005-2007 A Bigger Bang world tour grossed the band over half-a-billion dollars. Keith Richards says that it's not so unthinkable that the Stones will keep performing until they die: "That has always been my point. Ain't nobody that complained that Duke Ellington or Count Basie and said, 'Why are you still doing it?' They did it all their lives. What is it -- because I'm white and I play rock 'n' roll? You know what I mean? Otherwise, I'm just doing what all other guys who I follow -- you know Muddy (Waters), Howlin' Wolf. You do what you do until you drop. You know, you rock 'til you drop."

U2'S BERLIN EVENT STIRS UP SOME CONTROVERSY…U2 performed a short set in Germany yesterday (Thursday, November 5th) to mark the 20th anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall. According to the Associated Press, the band kicked off show at the Brandenburg Gate with the hit song "One." Frontman Bono thanked the crowd "for coming out in the cold" before wishing Berlin a happy birthday. The 30-minute, six-song set also featured "Beautiful Day," "Vertigo," a cover of Bob Marley's "Get Up, Stand Up," as well as a special guest appearance by Jay-Z on "Sunday Bloody Sunday." But the free concert wasn't without controversy for the some 10,000 ticketholders who attended. Concertgoers couldn't see a lot of the show because it was obscured by 6-1/2-foot high metal barrier put up temporarily to prevent non-ticketholders from getting in to the event. Fans were upset that they couldn't get a good view of U2 -- an interesting situation considering the concert was put on to recognize 20 years since the fall of the Berlin Wall. Local politician Frank Henkel tells BBC News, "It's a shame that a barrier has been set up. It's stopping many Berliners from hearing the concert."

The Berlin Wall fell on November 9, 1989, signaling the end of nearly 30 years of Cold War division between the communist East and the democratic West.

The U2 show was part of the MTV Europe Music Awards, which took place last night.

That’s it for now, as always, if you can’t be good, be good at it and don’t get caught!

Jonathan

Thursday - November 5, 2009 -

noreply@blogger.com (Jonathan Knight) — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 16:29:00 +0000

ON THIS DAY –

On this date in 1605, the plot by Guy Falkes to blow up the English Parliament failed. With that kind of lack of success rate, he went on to pick the new shows for NBC.

In 1875, Susan B. Anthony was fined $100 for trying to vote in a presidential election. To make the penalty even tougher, they made her pay using Susan B. Anthony dollar coins.

Legendary cowboy star Roy Rogers was born way, way back in 1911. He appeared in more than 100 films, starring in 87 of them. He also starred in his own NBC-TV series for six years from 1951 to 1957, with his wife Dale Evans. Here are some Roy Rogers facts and trivia from TVcrazy.net:

He was the only man voted in the Country Music Hall of Fame twice. He was elected to the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1980 as a member of the Original Sons Of The Pioneers and in 1988 as an individual artist.

The first movie Roy appeared in was "Way up Thar" in 1935.

Through the 40's and 50's Roy Rogers was the number one western star at the box office for 12 straight years.

At one time Roy Rogers was second only to Walt Disney in souvenir sales and licensing. Roy's estate was once valued at over 100 million dollars.

It was while making the 1944 film "The Cowboy and the Senorita" that Roy first met Dale Evans. They would marry three years later, 14 months after the death of Roy's first wife, Arlene.

Roy wasn't allowed to kiss Dale in the movies.

His horse Trigger appeared in all the films and TVv shows Roy Rogers starred in. In 1965 when Trigger died at 33, Roy had him stuffed and put in Roy and Dale's museum.

Roy died at age 86 in 1998, and Dale recently passed on at age 88. Roy and Dale appeared in 35 movies together, plus their TV show and were together for 51 years.

On this date in 1955, the very first stereo broadcast was heard. Suddenly, the number one request on the radio was a recording of "Walking across the room." It was during coverage of a political rally and for the first time, you could actually hear a candidate talking out of both sides of their mouth.

In 1958, El Capitan was climbed by a human being for the first time. True! From the day it enlisted, it had never been climbed once.

TODAY IS –

Thanksgiving is just three weeks from today.

Happy "Cinco de Novembero"!

Tatum O'Neal turns 46 today. She took the long way.

Singer Bryan Adams hits the big 5-0 today. That "Summer of '69" keeps getting farther and farther away.

Basketball Hall of Famer Bill Walton turns 57 today. He's still dunking, just now, it's donuts.

Peter Noone of "Herman's Hermits" turns 62. Actually, with the time change, he's Peter 11am.

Art Garfunkel turns 68 today. His career had an "American Idol" problem... it just wasn't as good without Simon.

THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW -

Steve Martin and Alec Baldwin have agreed to co-host the next Academy Awards show.

Thomas Dekker, the star of the now-defunct "Terminator" TV series "The Sarah Connor Chronicles," has been charged with two DUI's.

Michael Irvin and "Iron Chef America" chairman were sent home this week on "Dancing with the Stars."

Carrie Underwood is pretty nutso over her hockey player boyfriend, Mike Fisher. Even wrote him a really mooshy love note in the pamphlet of her new CD.

Now available: a Snuggy featuring the rock band Weezer. Can life get any better than that?

Eat curry. It may well be the new wonder food. An extract that is found in the bright yellow curry spice turmeric actually kills cancer cells, The BBC News reports of a study from the Cork Cancer Research Centre in Ireland.

Kirstie Alley in another reality show based on her weight challenges? A and E have signed her for a 10-episode thing next year.

Supermodel and mommy-to-be Gisele Bundchen (Mrs. Tom Brady) has passed her written test for acquiring her helicopter license.

Sesame Street starts it's 40th season on November 10th.

The coat rack reality star Ryan Jenkins used to hang himself earlier this year... was put on display at a Halloween party, where guests could take their picture with it. A little too macabre, don't you think?

Bill Clinton and George W. Bush will debate -- I'm not kidding -- in New York's Radio City Music Hall February 25th of next year. Part of a speakers series being put on there.

Brad Pitt is blaming the paparazzi for his recent motorcycle accident and is currently shopping for a new bike.

An Atlanta stripper claims she had a one-night stand with Fergie's husband, Josh Duhamel. But both Fergie and Josh are denying it. The stripper says she has text messages to back up her claims.

A poll by the financial web site YouGov.com found that nearly 70% of Internet users admit having the habit of "wilfing." What? It's the term that's short for "What Was I Looking For?" For instance, you're reading e-mail when you think about researching vacation spots, which reminds you that you need to check out gym prices, so you surf from one site to another until you forget what you started out looking for. One expert said the Internet is so full of distractions, it's easy to fall into this. Internet users over 55 are three times more likely to be wilfers than those under 25. People over 60 find themselves surfing the Internet when they really came into the room to look for their car keys.

Another survey found that adults waste around two full working days each and every month surfing around on non-work-related web sites. People admitted that they were constantly checking out shopping, news and travel web sites. How much time do you spend on the Internet at work on no work related sites?

A pretty face can land a better salary, a study in the Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences reports. We assume beautiful people are intelligent, friendly, and competent, says study co-author Carl Senior, Ph.D. But if an attractive manager fails to perform, she'll find it harder to climb the career ladder, Senior adds.

A British study of 1000 men found that who had sex at least twice a week had half the death rate of those who indulged less than once a month. According to neuropsychologist David Weeks, who found that men and women reported having sex an average of four times per week looked 10 years younger than they really were.

WEIRD NEWS -

Man Robs Same Bank Four Times? - There's an old adage that says if it ain't broke, don't fix it. In other words, if something's working fine, don't mess with it. That usually doesn't apply to bank robberies but it seems to me the motto of one bank robber in Tamarac, Florida. Investigators are searching for the guy who has now robbed a BankAtlantic branch four times in the last year. It happens so often that on his last robbery one of the tellers was overheard saying, "He's here again." The suspect is described as heavyset and has dreadlocks. He wears different clothes each time. He always orders tellers to fill a plastic bag with cash, then casually walks out. Hey -- after maybe say the first three times, do you think it might have been a good idea to have hired an armed guard to hang around during banking hours? (South Florida Sun Sentinel)

I Stole From a 9-Year-Old! - Shame, shame on 56-year-old Evelyn Border and her 35-year-old daughter Tina Griekspoor. They became willing victims of a modern day stockade after agreeing to stand outside the Bedford, Pennsylvania courthouse holding signs that read: I stole from a 9-year-old girl on her birthday! Don't steal or this could happen to you!" The strange sentence was part of a plea-bargain to keep the mom and daughter duo out of jail. Instead they got probation. They apparently swiped a gift card that a 9-year-old girl set on a shelf while a Wal-Mart employee helped her. The girl's mother planned to drive by the courthouse to teach her daughter the importance of obeying the law. And let's be honest -- probably so they could just laugh and laugh and laugh! I know I would! (AHN News)

No More Shout Outs to Prisoners! - Try not to end up at the Van Buren County Jail in Paw Paw, Michigan. One section of the jail is 100-years-old and has no air-conditioning. As a result, its barred windows are opened during warm weather. As the wing stands only a few feet from the sidewalk, separated by a tall chain-link fence crowned by spirals of razor wire, for years friends and loved ones of inmates have been known to stand outside the jail and shout out to them. Sometimes they hold entire conversations together. Not anymore. A new Paw Paw law (yeah that's fun to say) makes giving your favorite inmate a shout out from the sidewalk illegal. Do it and you could be having lots of conversations with them -- from inside the jail -- for 90 days! (myway.com)

Don't Mess With Me and My Trusty Umbrella - A parking valet in Boston is being heralded a hero thanks to his bravery and his trusty umbrella. Just after he brought 61-year-old Barbara Pero her car, a knife-wielding purse snatcher came out of nowhere and attacked. The guy forced his way into the car and threatened to kill her. Ms. Pero jumped out and screamed. That's when 23-year-old valet Felix Vega sprang into action. He grabbed a wood-handled umbrella from his manager's office and began beating the suspect. The suspect, 48-year-old Richard Morse, fled but was arrested nearby with Ms. Pero's purse. Turns out he had previous convictions for mayhem and armed robbery. Mayhem?? (Boston Globe)

Three Cat Limit! - If you just can't have enough cats in your life, stay clear of Dudley, Massachusetts. Dudley is a small town about 60 miles southwest of Boston and just passed a new ordinance which says it is now illegal to live in Dudley and own more than three cats. That is unless you get a special license. And good luck getting that. Voters at a town meeting made it so in response to a neighborhood feud over the 15 cats owned by Mary Ellen Richards. A neighbor complained that Ms. Richard's cats ruined his yard. Ms. Richards has put her home up for sale and says she plans to move to a "more cat-friendly community." So there! (Telegram & Gazette)

Unfortunately Police Had the Wrong Teletubby! - Maybe the best headline we've seen this year. Halloween took a bizarre turn in London when late Halloween night, a man dressed as a Teletubby robbed a woman at gunpoint. The gun-toting Teletubby confronted the woman just after midnight and demanded cash. She gave him the money and then called police. They indeed stopped a man in the area who fit the description, but then realized they had the wrong Teletubby. The Teletubby who robbed the woman has described as between 6 foot 2 and 6 foot 4, 200 to 240 pounds and a muscular build, short, dark hair and was clean shaven. Apparently Teletubbies are still all the rage on Halloween in London. (Packet and Times)

Ouch! Right in the Wii! - Apparently Judge Marvin Garfinkle of Winnipeg doesn't believe much in being scared straight. He'd rather hit trouble kids where it really hurts -- right in the Wii! He just opted to grant a troublesome 12-year-old boy bail on condition that he surrenders his beloved Nintendo Wii to the court. Judge Garfinkle said, "He is pledging as a security, akin to a cash deposit, his Nintendo Wii. And if he doesn't comply, he loses it." By "comply," the judge means "keeping the peace, appearing for court dates, living with his grandmother and participating in a bail management program." Failure to uphold any of those duties will result in forfeiture of the console. The creative punishment is basically a last ditch effort to curb the boy's bad behavior, which includes smashing windows at his elementary school, punching a classmate in the face, disobeying a court order to stay away from school, hitting another boy with a pool cue and attacking a teacher after a game of dodge ball. (Yahoo News)

But That Cat Is My Mommy! - 46-year-old Peter Keonig is serving five-years for armed robberies in Whirl, Germany. And the Buddhist bank robber has been refused permission for his cat to visit him in jail-- even though he says it's the reincarnation of his mother. Buddhists believe that people come back as other animals after death and Pete went to court to demand the right for his cat Gisela to be allowed to visit him in jail "because she is my dead mom". He added, "I need to see her like other prisoners see their wives and children." But the court said forget it and issued a statement which read: "While we respect the religious freedom of individuals, the accused has not been able to furnish proof that his deceased mother has been reborn in a cat. Therefore, the request for visiting rights for the feline is rejected." The court did say Peter would be allowed to write to the cat. (AHN News)

TOP FIVE SIGNS YOU'RE WAY TOO MUCH INTO HOLIDAYS

1. Are you really putting up a "Pearl Harbor Tree"?
2. You celebrate both Canadian AND U.S. Thanksgivings
3. That all Turkey manger scene you always put up
4. "Cinco de Novembero"? Really?
5. Outside hanging the Veterans' Day lights

HUNTER'S HUMOR by Tim Hunter

Disney wants to build the first Disneyland inside China. It would be like all of their other parks, except some of the attractions would be different. For example: "It's a small wall after all."

Of course, the most popular Disney character in the new park will be Mickey Mao.

Then there's the guy who got drunk on Halloween and went out as Paula Abdul.

I like referring to myself in the third person. Actually, it's one of the rare activities him & I like to do together.

Kate Gosselin admits she might have been a little hard on Jon. Ha! She said "little hard on." Where are we? 7th grade?

Wow, Christmas is just 7 weeks from Friday. Did I say that out loud?

Quite a bit of buzz about that new show "V," that is about aliens coming to earth and blending in with humans so that they can get government bailout money.

On to ROCK NEWS –

STEVEN TYLER GOING SOLO; NEW SINGER FOR AEROSMITH?...Aerosmith frontman Steven Tyler told Classic Rock magazine this week that he intends to work on "Brand Tyler" instead of a new Aerosmith record for the foreseeable future. Following the band's performance at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix in the United Arab Emirates over the weekend, Tyler said about his future plans, "I don't know what I'm doing yet, but it's definitely going to be something Steven Tyler: working on the brand of myself -- Brand Tyler."

Things have been tense in the Aerosmith camp since early August, when a fall from a stage in South Dakota broke Tyler's shoulder and ended the band's summer tour. In the months since, internal strife has come to the surface, with guitarist Joe Perry saying in interviews that the rest of the band had not heard from Tyler since his injury, that the group was waiting for its singer to "get his act together," and that he and Tyler had not even written a song together in 10 years.

Although the show in Abu Dhabi and two other gigs last month in Hawaii showed the band to be in fine form onstage, Classic Rock reported that at all three dates, the rest of the group did not see Tyler until the opening number and that his dressing room was far away from theirs.

Yet Perry told Classic Rock that the Abu Dhabi gig was "one of the best shows of the year."

Tyler has reportedly refused to commit to getting back in the studio and has now also apparently pulled out of a tentative South American tour, forcing the rest of Aerosmith to consider two options: going on hiatus or getting a new vocalist.

As unthinkable as the latter option might sound to fans, guitarist Brad Whitford said, "I'm not sure how good that would look, it would largely depend on who we could get and who would want to do it. That's big shoes to fill. Nobody could replace Steven or imitate him -- he's one of a kind. But if somebody was willing to do it and the chemistry was right, why not?"

SLASH WANTS PEOPLE TO STOP ASKING IF HE'LL REJOIN GUNS N' ROSES…Velvet Revolver and ex-Guns N' Roses guitarist Slash told the U.K.'s BBC 6 Music that he wishes people would stop asking him if he's ever going to rejoin Guns. Slash explained, "I just feel for people that don't seem to get it. All things considered, it's been a really long time, and everybody's moved on. At the same time, I appreciate that I was part of a band that had such a huge impact and touched so many people, and I feel bad for them that it's not around -- but it is what it is."

The guitarist is gearing up for the early 2010 release of his new solo album, tentatively titled Slash & Friends, and said he's deliberately kept a lid on the guest singers appearing on the record: "I've been very low key on this, because I was waiting for all the releases for all the different singers, but some of the cats are out of the bag. There's a lot of people on the record."

Confirmed singers on the disc include Ozzy Osbourne, Chris Cornell, Fergie and M. Shadows of Avenged Sevenfold.

Other musicians contributing to the album include ex-Guns drummer Steven Adler, Red Hot Chili Peppers bassist Flea, Dave Grohl of Foo Fighters, former Nine Inch Nails drummer Josh Freese and more.

Slash added to the BBC, "It's just nice to be in charge of my own destiny, even if it's just for one record. Just not to be in a group situation, and at the mercy of what everybody as a whole feels, but being responsible for my own decisions and having the final say . . . I needed to get it out of my system."

Velvet Revolver has yet to find a new lead singer, despite dismissing frontman Scott Weiland more than 18 months ago.

Guns N' Roses released its long-delayed Chinese Democracy album last November, with singer Axl Rose as the sole original member, but it failed commercially. The band is prepping a Canadian tour.

AC/DC TOPS AUSTRALIAN RICH LIST…AC/DC have topped Australian business magazine BRW's list of that country's wealthiest entertainers for 2009.

The band earned $105 million in Australian dollars, or $95 million U.S., nine times the amount they earned the previous year.

BRW reporter Jane Lindhe said, "They've always been steady on the list but have come from $12 million last year to $105 million this year, blowing everyone out of the water."

The band's increased income was no doubt due to their world tour, which was one of the biggest of the year.

CHICKENFOOT NAMED BEST NEW BAND OF 2009…Chickenfoot was named as the best new band of 2009 at the annual Classic Rock Magazine Awards, held this week at the Park Lane Hotel in London.

The band, which features ex-Van Halen members Sammy Hagar and Michael Anthony, along with Red Hot Chili Peppers drummer Chad Smith, was not at the event but taped a video acceptance speech.

Other stars at the awards show included members of Led Zeppelin, Black Sabbath, Aerosmith, Queen, the Who, the Rolling Stones, Iron Maiden and more.

ROGER DALTREY'S VOICE GIVES OUT DURING CLEVELAND GIG…Roger Daltrey lost his voice towards the end of Tuesday night's (November 3rd) show at Cleveland's House of Blues. Although Daltrey has had slight problems throughout the tour -- and has juggled some of the song's placings in the setlist for when he's properly warmed up for each tune -- the Cleveland gig saw him at his rawest.

Cleveland.com reported that Daltrey apologized to the crowd towards the end of his set, saying, "I sound terrible. I had a very bad night's sleep last night. This is what I woke up with." Daltrey struggled through his customary Johnny Cash medley and the Who's "Blue, Red & Grey" before abandoning both songs entirely. He mustered his strength for a rousing closing cover of Creedence Clearwater Revival's "Born On The Bayou."

Daltrey says that he's learned to properly pace himself within his live performances: "We can only play for two hours. You know it gets to be, for me personally and my voice, two hours is enough singing the way I sing. It's not an easy number these songs. They're very, very challenging. They demand the kind of energy that the voice needs to give it."

Roger Daltrey performs tonight (November 5th) in Orilla, Ontario at the Casino Rama Entertainment Centre.

JON BON JOVI DIDN'T EXPECT TO RELEASE A NEW ALBUM THIS SOON…Bon Jovi's new album, The Circle, comes out next Tuesday (November 10th), but if you ask the guys in the band, it wasn't supposed to happen this soon. There were plans to release a greatest hits album this year, but once Jon Bon Jovi got to writing some new material, he got on a roll and had enough material for an entire studio set -- and then some. He tells us how he went about telling record exec L.A. Reid the album news: "You start writing more and more and more come January-February I went into L.A.'s office and I played him a half a dozen or more songs, and I said, 'I got good and bad news. I think we got a studio record here, but it's going to get in the way of the documentary. So much for you greatest hits.' And he said, 'My experience is if an artist really has something to say, and you let it pass, then it really wouldn't be as timely.'"

A greatest hits album with three new songs will be released next year.

The Circle features the single, "We Weren't Born To Follow."

The new Bon Jovi documentary, called When We Were Beautiful, recently aired on Showtime. A book of the same name came out this week featuring exclusive photographs, along with stories about the band.

Bon Jovi kicks off a tour in early 2010.

The New Jersey rockers will perform on NBC's Today show on November 11th.

Bon Jovi's most recent set, Lost Highway, came out in 2007.

SURVEY SHOWS BEATLES SONGS MORE MEMORABLE THAN THOSE BY ELVIS PRESLEY OR MICHAEL JACKSON….A new survey revealed that the Beatles' songs are "more memorable" than those by Elvis Presley and Michael Jackson, according to digitalspy.com. A Europe-wide poll was conducted by the Digital broadcaster Music Choice which asked 4,136 people to recite the words to several legendary songs.

The results found that 89 percent of people could recite the opening lines to the "Fab Four's" 1964 chart-topper "A Hard Day's Night," yet only 23 percent were able to repeat the first lyrics of Jackson's 1982 hit "Thriller" and Elvis' 1956 rock standard "Blue Suede Shoes."

Interestingly, the poll also showed that women were "twice as capable at remembering Jackson's words than men."

That’s it for now, as always, if you can’t be good, be good at it and don’t get caught!!

Jonathan

Wednesday - November 4, 2009 -

noreply@blogger.com (Jonathan Knight) — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 16:12:00 +0000

ON THIS DAY -

On this date in 1862, Mr. Gatling walked in and received a patent for his invention, the "Gatling Gun." The reason he got the patent the same day he walked in: hey, you argue with him.

In 1880, the first cash register was patented. It was not only a much-needed invention, but it also had a nice ring to it. Or, the very cash register was patented. It's inventors had only one word to say: "Kaching!"

On this date in 1922, the entrance to King Tut's tomb was discovered. They had to Discover it because the tomb did not accept American Express. It was a very nice tomb; even had valet chariot parking. At first, they weren't sure it was actually him. He was so well-preserved that he appeared like he was made out of clay. Yeah, they thought they saw a putty Tut. Man that was a long way to go.

TODAY IS

"Survivor" host Jeff Probst celebrates his 47th birthday today. Instead of candles, he blows out torches.

Sean "Puffy" Combs and Matthew McConaughey both hit the big 4-0 today. You know, you never do seem them in the same place together. Hmmmmmmm.

Former first lady Laura Bush celebrates her 63rd birthday today.

THIS MONTH IS

National Stress Free Family Holiday Month -- The no. 1 cause of holiday stress is spending too much money! That's the word from a recent FranklinCovey survey asking over 15,000 customers what causes them stress during the most wonderful time of the year. 87% admitted that holiday activities do cause stress, while 49% confessed to being relieved when it was all over. Here are the top 10 most stressful holiday activities in ranked order of most stressful to least stressful:

1. Spending too much money

2. Creating a specific holiday budget

3. Deciding what gift to buy for whom

4. Managing workload to take time off

5. Not enough time to shop

6. Not enough time for events

7. Sending gifts and cards on time

8. Taking care of physical well-being

9. Relationships with family, friends and co-workers

10. Decorating for or hosting a holiday party

"The key to avoiding stress during the holiday season is to create a manageable, written plan for the holidays that includes events, budgeting, shopping, traditions and quality time with friends and family. Make sure your plan allows you and your loved ones to enjoy the holiday season -- your way," said professional organizer Julie Morgenstern, author of "Organizing From the Inside Out." "Without a plan, you can easily go over budget, waste time searching for the perfect gift, and abandon your own well-being. Be prepared before you take on the season."

THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW

· ABC News got the first interview with Rihanna who talks openly about that whole Chris Brown incident. Thursday and Friday on "Good Morning, America" and Friday night on "20/20."

· That Ryan Seacrest stalker that was arrested last Friday at the E! offices last Friday -- asking to see Ryan and with a knife -- was a member of the Army Reserve. Ryan has received an apology from the U.S. army for the incident.

· CBS sportscaster Jim Nantz must pay $916,000 annually in alimony and child support to his ex-wife and give up their Connecticut home under terms of a newly issued divorce decree.

· The harmonica player for the Steve Miller Band since 1975, Norton Buffalo, has died from cancer at age 58.

· Why is Jim Carrey packing on the pounds these days? So he can play Curly in the upcoming Three Stooges movie.

· Whitney Houston's New Jersey estate, where she married Bobby Brown back in 1992, is up for sale. Yours for a cool $2.5 million.

· Edward Norton finished the New York Marathon last weekend in 3 hours, 48 minutes and 1 second. Alanis Morissette pulled in just under 4-1/2 hours.

· Jon Gosselin and Hailey Glassman are "taking time off from each other."

· Adam Lambert and his boyfriend have split.

· The reason for Elton John canceling concerts lately: "a serious case of e-coli bacterial infection and influenza."

· A new study suggests that the nicotine patchcombined with the nicotine lozenge is the most effective way to quit smoking.

· For whatever reason, hot tub injuries are up over 200% since 1990.

· "30 Rock" debuted on German TV this past week and scored a 0.0 rating, the lowest ever recorded.

· In Saudi Arabia, a court has upheld the sentence of a child molester and murderer to have him beheaded and then publicly displaying his body with a crucifixion.

CONVERSATION STARTERS

Are you too polite to tell a colleague he smells? Would you tell your boss her sexy blouse is inappropriate for the office? CareerBuilder.com asked 4,400 workers just how bold they would be in the office when it comes to telling embarrassing things to their colleagues. It turns out that most of us are weenies. We would rather see someone with spinach in her teeth all afternoon than tell her about it. Would you tell a co-worker this?

Your hair is messy:

· Same level co-worker, 33%
· Lower level co-worker, 30%
· Higher level co-worker, 13%

You need a breath mint:

· Same level co-worker, 33%
· Lower level co-worker, 29%
· Higher level co-worker, 14%

You need a shower:

· Same level co-worker, 28%
· Lower level co-worker, 29%
· Higher level co-worker, 11%

So how many would tell a higher level co-worker his or her dress was not appropriate for the office? Only 10% thought they could do that.

No wonder "Grumpy" is the name of one of the seven dwarfs a new study found that taller people are happier with their lives, while shorties are more miserable about the way things turned out for them. Researchers questioned more than 450,000 grown-ups about their lives and discovered that those above average height 5 feet 9.2 inches for men and 5 feet 3.8 inches for women in the United States, are happier about their lot in life. Meanwhile, men who thought their lives were the "worst possible" were eight-tenths or nearly an inch shorter than the average male. And women who were unhappy with their lives were a half inch short than the average gal, according to the scientists at New Jersey's Princeton University. Taller men were also better educated, the study found, while height made no significant difference in this category for women. Men who failed to get a high school diploma were half an inch shorter than those who did and a full inch shorter than males who completed college. (National Examiner)

I just read a new poll that says, 97% of people agree on the topic of texting while driving: They think it should be illegal. The other 3 percent doesn't care, or didn't answer cause they were busy texting.

According to The Sun, a British plastic surgeon found a young woman as his bride and then surgically turned her into his ideal wife. According to the story, she is very happy with the transformation. If your spouse wanted you to get plastic surgery, and you could afford it, would you do it for them?

Do you think this winter, all companies should pay employees if they have the Swine flu? Health officials are pleading with the public: If you are sick, stay home. Although millions of Americans have no paid sick leave. Many can't afford to stay home to fight the swine flu? A person has to eat, right? Do you have a job that doesn't pay if you don't work? What do you do?

What song helped you get through a breakup? I found this list on eHarmony, The 10 most empowering breakup songs:

1. You're So Vain -- Carly Simon. Nothing helps dull the pain of a bad breakup like a gripe session about the ex – and Carly Simon's 1972 hit is just that. With bitterness in her voice (and Mick Jagger on backup vocals), Carly recounts a love affair with a narcissistic philanderer.

2. Trouble in Mind -- Various Artists. Unlike most blues songs, this one acknowledges that there's light at the end of the heartbreak tunnel. Trouble in Mind has been covered by dozens of artists since it was first recorded in 1926 by Bertha "Chippie" Hill. Muddy Waters, Bob Dylan, Janis Joplin and Nina Simone are just a few who've delivered the song's optimistic message: The sun is going to shine in my back door some day.

3. Kiss Off -- Violent Femmes. What ranks this among the great breakup empowerment anthems is the mid-song countdown of why the ex can "just kiss off into the air."

4. You Keep Me Hangin' On -- The Supremes. As if getting dumped weren't bad enough, the ex who insists on checking up on you after the fact is just plain cruel. Diana Ross sings about the "Aha!" moment when she realizes her former flame is dangling his love in front of her simply to feed his own ego.

5. The Sign -- Ace of Base. Ever waffle about a relationship until a defining moment pushes you over the edge? This is exactly what Swedish pop band Ace of Base refers to in their 1993 dance hit. The theme: Living well is the best revenge.

6. Hit the Road Jack -- Ray Charles. You can't really tell who's to blame in this 1961 breakup song – essentially, a volley between Ray Charles and his backup singers. Ray is broke, and his girl seems to be an old shrew who wants him out. (What'd you say?) No matter whose side you take in this song, singing it feels good.

7. Goodbye to You -- Scandal (featuring Patty Smyth). One can only pine so much over lost love before the stress becomes too overwhelming. Rock band Scandal, along with then-front woman Patty Smyth, released the unapologetic breakup tune Goodbye to You in 1982.

8. Since U Been Gone -- Kelly Clarkson. You're clearly over the heartbreak hump when you realize that your life is way better without your former flame weighing you down. With unbridled energy, former American Idol winner Kelly Clarkson sings about the stupidity you feel from being duped by a lying scoundrel and the liberation that comes from "so moving on."

9. Respect -- Aretha Franklin. You know a relationship is in trouble when you literally have to spell out the problem to your significant other! That's what the Queen of Soul did when she couldn't get any respect from a man who wanted her to fork over a load of cash. Good thing she walked.

10. I Will Survive -- Gloria Gaynor. After nearly 30 years, Gloria Gaynor's disco megahit remains the ultimate empowering breakup song, and there's no wonder why: It's danceable, powerful and inspiring. A tale of triumph over heartbreak and of newfound inner strength, how's that for survival?

Things That Make You Go Hmmmm…..

According to a Harris Interactive Survey, the rudest thing you can do at work is to use profanity. I think the rudest think someone can do at work is eat my stuff that I put in the fridge! Why do they eat it? They know it's not theirs! It drives me nuts.

Senseless stuff you do? We as humans often do stupid stuff that makes no sense, like when we push an elevator button when it is already lit up, as if it'll hurry the elevator.

There is a strange recent study that says, the less sex you have, the more work you seek. 36 percent of men and 35 percent of women who have sex only once a week take on extra work to compensate for their wanting sex life. On the other hand, people who have sex at least twice a week don't want to work. So we found this to be very interesting. I looked around our office and tried to find all the people who were the workaholics. Is it true? Well, I work at a radio station…what do YOU think….

Ladies, how do you ask a guy out with some class? The fact is that single women are more accustomed to being asked out, and single guys are more accustomed to doing the asking -- which means there's not a lot of data out there about how men like to be approached for a first date. Here are some tips in asking a guy out (from MSN.com):

· Be indirect. Well, OK, here's another approach to try: Remember how, back in junior high school, you'd ask your girlfriend to ask her sister if that cute, broody guy on your bus was going steady with anyone? This technique works well in adult life, too: The fact is, most guys were deeply unpopular in junior high school and will be flattered to have your friends do some advance scouting (just make sure your emissary isn't on the market herself, lest you wind up recreating the plot of a Mandy Moore movie).

· Come up with a plan. Choose between the following two conversations. Conversation A: You, to that cute guy in the coffee shop: "Um, do you think you'd... maybe like to... go out sometime?" Cute guy in the coffee shop, to you: "Um... yeah... maybe we can do something... sometime." Conversation B: You, to that cute sales clerk at Barnes & Noble: "Hey, Dave Eggers is giving a reading tonight at a really cool bar downtown. Would you like to go?" Cute sales clerk at Barnes & Noble, to you: "Sure!" Get the point?

· Don't come on too strong. I'll spare you the Freudian mumbo-jumbo about how, deep down, guys are actually scared of women, and their subconscious minds will transform an ostensibly breezy come-on ("Hey, Slim! What say I treat you to some steak and eggs at Denny's?") into a screaming nightmare about some woman in a caftan chasing them with a pair of oversized scissors.

· Don't over-plan. It's only in sitcoms that guys hire skywriters and three-piece mariachi bands to announce their interest in cute, yet clueless, roommates. So don't feel you should follow that tradition. Blue Angel flybys may be out of your price range, but even a gimmick as innocent-seeming as a homemade chocolate muffin accompanied by a written invitation is overdoing it.

WEIRD NEWS -
Bear -2, Terrorists-0! - Well there are two less terrorists in the world thanks to a bear in South Kashmir in India. A bear has mauled two Hizbul Mujahideen militants to death as they hid in its cave. Officials say it was a really stupid decision to dare to try and move in to the cave -- a decision that cost the men their lives. An Army patrol party found the mauled bodies. The two were identified as Kaisar Ahmad and Saifullah, both residents of Kashmir, and the patrol party also found two AK47 rifles and some ammunition in the cave. Of course being terrorists, the general feeling is one more of joy than sorrow. We're sure you agree. (The Times of India)

Funniest Halloween Story of 2009! - Okay we concede that there's never anything funny about somebody driving drunk but it's just dang hard to conceal a smile on your face when you hear this one. In Oxford, Ohio, 18-year-old James Miller was pulled over around 1:30am Halloween night. He was driving the wrong way out of the entrance to a one way street and officers found what was left of a case of Bud Light in the passenger front seat and in the trunk. The boy registered a blood-alcohol level of .158, nearly two times the legal limit. Also found were multiple Ohio ID's in his wallet. Fortunately nobody was hurt and what makes all this so amusing was the Halloween costume he had on at the time. James was dressed as a breathalyzer machine! (Fox News)

Hey Give Us a Break on the Bells Quasimodo! - An overly zealous bishop has been cited for disturbing the peace after neighbors complained about his habit of playing recordings of church bells every half-hour, every day of the week! Bishop Rick Painter of the newly-opened Cathedral of Christ the King in Phoenix, Arizona has appealed the conviction, saying the court's decision to silence the bells, except for Sundays, is a breach of his constitutional rights. Bishop Painter said, "God is not just God on Sundays." But neighbors are breathing a sigh of relief, saying the bells would start as early as 6am some days. One neighbor, Al Brooks said, "I can't imagine that God in heaven would look down and say that's a good thing to do to your neighbors." (Sky News)

We Don't Like Any of That Playboy Nonsense Down South! - David Fowler, a former Republican state senator who now heads the Family Action Council of Tennessee, is none too happy about the Electric Power Board's expansion into the video business by offering the Playboy Channel and access to adult movies as part of its premium pay-for-view service. Fowler and other critics object to a government-owned utility putting out what they say is pornography. But the E-P-B says it has a free speech mandate not to censure a diverse programming menu, and it has strict limits on underage people accessing adult movies. Under those circumstances, courts have held that government identities CANNOT arbitrarily edit their entertainment offerings. Lord forbid someone down south see a naked woman on the TV. It might lead to... dare I say it... dancing! (The Pulse)

High Tech Holidays Mean It's Back To School For Santa! - It's not easy being a holiday Santa in 2009. Gone are the days when kid's toy requests were relegated to new train sets and baby dolls. Today's in demand high-tech toys mean your average department store Santa may be left baffled by the requests he's getting. So an online training course has been launched to help low-tech Santas get up to speed this year. Santas can call experts and ask for technical advice on computer games, consoles, cameras, and MP3 players. Jeremy Fennell from PC World said, "There are more than 40,000 different gadgets and technologies on sale right now, a great many of which are going to be on children's Christmas lists. The Santas we are training are going to be faced with a very technically literate and technology savvy generation of youngsters over the next two months and we want them to be able to show that they understand what these kids are asking for." Because what could be more depressing than telling Santa what you want for Christmas and finding he doesn't have a clue what you're talking about! (Ananova)

New Meatball World Record! Why Not? - There's a new world record for the planet's biggest meatball -- and the honor goes to the fine folks of Nonni's Italian Eatery in Concord, New Hampshire. Owner Matthew Mitnitsky says that his 222.5-pound meatball was authenticated as the world's largest after being weighed by state weights and measures officials. A Guinness Book of World Records official confirmed the big meatball as a record breaker and presented Mitnitsky with a plaque. And we might have a real East Coast-West Coast battle brewing here as the previous record of 198.6 pounds was set just over a month ago after Los Angeles-based talk show host Jimmy Kimmel vowed to beat a record set in Mexico. That record - 109 pounds - was set in August. Mitnitsky said he got involved "to bring the meatball back to the East Coast because that's where it originated." Wanna see this thing? Sure you do. Just go to www.worldslargestmeatball.com (Sky News)

Facebook Saves The Day Again! - The search for the owner of a lost camera, which became a Facebook sensation, has finally ended in success! It was set up by Australian Danny Cameron after he found the camera on the Greek island of Mykonos. He hoped his theory that anybody in the world can be contacted within "six degrees of separation" would lead him to find the tourists whose pictures were saved on the memory card. So he posted some of the pictures on a Facebook page called Needle in the Haystack. More than 230,000 Facebook users signed up on the page and at last, three friends, Pierre Paoli, Edouard Hostein and Julien Kopp, have come forward to end the intrigue. Mr. Paoli, who works in London, said, "We were on holiday and our friend Marie Cecile lost her camera." Cameron has now closed the group with one last posting which read: "Congratulations everyone, the camera owner has been found... thanks everyone for taking part... unbelievable effort. I am amazed and in awe of you all." (Facebook.com)

We're Really Sorry That Your Kid's Such a Brat! - Southwest Airlines has apologized to a mother who was booted off a plane last Monday after her two-year-old son was deemed too unruly for flight. The flight crew asked Pamela Root and her 2-year-old son Adam to leave the plane bound for San Jose, California, because flight attendants couldn't deliver the pre-flight safety instructions over the Adam's constant loud screams. Already out on the tarmac, Southwest Flight 637 was called back to the gate, where flight attendants asked Root to leave the plane. Ms. Root then found herself stuck in Amarillo, Texas without her luggage and had to buy more diapers and a portable crib to stay an unexpected extra night with her parents. She said the flight attendant told her they wouldn't be able to tolerate the anxious child's screams for two hours. I don't know. I'm kind of with Southwest on this one. And I've got small kids too! It ain't that hard to keep 'em quiet. A little Jack Daniels in the milk just before takeoff works wonders! Unnecessary Joke Disclaimer: Okay you freaks. CLEARLY that was a joke! I don't want to see any Social Services workers knocking at my door! And stop taking everything so seriously! (San Jose Mercury News)

TOP FIVE REASONS WHY THE PHILLIES ARE DRAGGING OUT THE WORLD SERIES

1. What? A chance to go back to New York and catch a Broadway show? Why wouldn't we?
2. Nickname "Mr. November" still up for grabs
3. It gives Cliff Lee two more possible games to pitch
4. Winter bowling league doesn't kick off until next week
5. Didn't want to miss an episode of "Glee"

HUNTER'S HUMOR by Tim Hunter

A new report says that the internet will run out of web addresses early next year. Apparently, people are just grabbing up every and any kind of address they can think of. I read about this on the website, "we're going to run out of web addresses by next year" dot com.

And by the year after, they'll probably also run out of Internet zip codes.

The very first Internet message was sent 40 years ago this week. I believe it was from some South African prince who had lost his kingdom.

A drought in Venezuela has resulted in water rationing. As a good neighbor, we should offer them water -- at $80 a barrel!

Some really GOOD Advice…..TOP 10 THINGS YOU SHOULD NEVER SAY TO HER

Askmen.com says there are some instances when you are better off either shutting up or telling a little white lie -- or risk spending the night on the couch.

1. Man, you look so much like your mom!
2. I would have invited you, but you're no fun.
3. Anything related to marriage or children.
4. Would have, could have, should have.
5. You don't need another pair of shoes.
6. Any story about your private life.
7. Come on, a few little cramps never hurt anybody.
8. What's the big deal? You have another birthday next year.
9. Are you sure the dress shrunk?
10. That's not the way my ex did it.

YOU DIDN'T CALL

When a man goes out with a woman, he should not call her for a couple days after the date, according to sharpman.com, which offers advice to men. Here's why:

· Because if she liked you, waiting a day or two will not change that. If she didn't like you, why call so soon and further annoy her? Give her a day or two to forget, and then try again.

· In the event she's "on the fence": Absence really does make the heart grow fonder. Also, women always want what they perceive they cannot have. But remember, you asked her out and thereby affirmed her desirability. Now she's in the position of accepting you or rejecting.

· Your aim is to turn those tables right around.

· You let her wonder. You motivate her to silently ask: Why haven't you called again? Wasn't she the vision of loveliness she thinks she is?

TOP FIVE SIGNS YOUR PIZZA DELIVERY GUY WAS EXPECTING A LARGER TIP

1. Before handing off the pizza, he takes a couple of pieces and says, "Okay, now we're even"
2. He immediately calls a friend on his cell phone and says, "You're not going to believe this"
3. 3 days later he's still at the front door
4. After you handed him the tip, he said, "And?"
5. A day later he's still at the front door

A Few Entertainment News Bits -

MORGAN FREEMAN TO STAR IN 'DIRTY OLD MEN' COMEDY…Oscar winner Morgan Freeman celebrated his 72nd birthday earlier this year, but he shows no signs of slowing down. The actor just signed on to an untitled film comedy, previously known as Dirty Old Men. The story revolves around an aging playboy who finally meets the love of his life, while his best friend and wingman of 40 years -- played by Freeman -- does everything to break up the new couple. The tone of the film is described as being similar to Wedding Crashers and The 40-Year-Old Virgin, according to The Hollywood Reporter.

Though no star has been attached to play the main character, producers are hoping to snag Jack Nicholson, who teamed with Freeman to great success in the 2007 comedy The Bucket List.

Freeman will be seen next in Invictus, in which he portrays Nelson Mandela for director Clint Eastwood. He begins shooting the action thriller Red in January.

KAROLINA KURKOVA IS LATEST VICTORIA'S SECRET MODEL TO GIVE BIRTH…Supermodel Karolina Kurkova gave birth to a son last week. A rep for the 25-year-old confirmed that she and film producer Archie Drury welcomed their first child, Tobin Jack Drury, last Thursday (October 29th) in New York City.

Fellow Victoria's Secret model Alessandra Ambrosio, who recently welcomed a daughter, recently commented on the baby-crazy beauties, telling People magazine, "It's just great that we're all at the same time in our lives. We're all having babies, we're thinking about play dates. We're going shopping for the babies. If we have time, we're together we're talking about babies!"

Another Victoria's Secret model -- Adriana Lima -- is also expecting he first child while Heidi Klum just gave birth to her fourth.

GOSSELIN GOSSIP…A new report claims that Hailey Glassman's public tears and claims of emotional abuse from Jon Gosselin were actually orchestrated by the reality dad himself. A supposed insider told Fox411, "Jon actually made the decision to have Hailey go on air and bad mouth him. Jon and Hailey get paid for their appearances on these shows and they need the money. It was easy for Hailey to conjure tears, their lives are less than stellar right now, but Jon hasn't abused her."

The source added, "They agreed to have her go on and make the abuse allegations! Jon doesn't have much money left and he is not currently searching for a real job. Jon still seeks money through his fame and notoriety. He really wants a reality show of his own, and he is stretching out every moment of the drama for a dollar."

KATE BETRAYED BY CONFIDANTS

In other Gosselin news, Kate said during last night's TLC special that it's hard to trust people now that her life has become tabloid fodder. The reality mom told Natalie Morales, "When you look around, and very close trusted people who would never cash you in, for lack of better words, and those people do that and people leave your house and tell completely different stories, you tend not to trust people."

She explained that eight Gosselin children have been showing signs of strain, acting out and, in some cases, becoming more introverted in the wake of the family's public troubles.

HAILEY GLASSMAN NOT READY TO DATE

Meanwhile, although Glassman and Gosselin both admit their relationship is on the back burner for now, Hailey isn't looking for a new man. She tweeted on Monday (November 2nd), "Yes, I am semi-single, but definitely NOT YET ready to mingle. I need some Hailey time and regroup myself and my life."

In ROCK NEWS -

QUICK TAKES…Pete Townshend was on hand on Monday night (November 2nd) in London, to present old friend Ron Wood with an Outstanding Contribution Honor at the Classic Rock Awards. Wood, who was singled out for his "ageless presence on the scene," revealed that the trophy was his first-ever honor not shared with the Faces or the Rolling Stones, saying, "It means a lot. It's about time -- I've never had one just for myself." Other legends honored at the awards gala included Ginger Baker, John Bonham, and Iggy Pop -- who snagged the Living Legend award. (BBC.co.uk)

Out now is Get Yer Ya-Ya's Out! The Rolling Stones In Concert 40th Anniversary Deluxe Box Set. The set features three CD's and one DVD, with the first disc including the full 1970 Get Yer Ya-Ya's Out album, and the second disc including five additional cuts left off the original set. The third disc features performances from Ike & Tina Turner and B.B. King who served as the Stones' opening acts on November 27th and 28th, 1969 at New York's Madison Square Garden.

The tracklisting to Get Yer Ya-Ya's Out! The Rolling Stones In Concert 40th Anniversary Deluxe Box Set is:

Disc One: "Jumping' Jack Flash," "Carol," "Stray Cat Blues," "Love In Vain," "Midnight Rambler," "Sympathy For The Devil," "Live With Me," "Little Queenie," "Honky Tonk Women," and "Street Fighting Man."

Disc Two: "Prodigal Son," "You Gotta Move," "Under My Thumb," "I'm Free," and "(I Can t Get No) Satisfaction."

Disc Three: (B.B. King) "Everyday I Have The Blues," "How Blue Can You Get," "That's Wrong Little Mama," "Why I Sing The Blues," "Please Accept My Love"; (Ike & Tina Turner) "Gimme Some Loving," "Sweet Soul Music," "Son Of A Preacher Man," "Proud Mary," "I've Been Loving You Too Long," "Come Together," and "Land Of 1000 Dances."

Disc Four - DVD: "Prodigal Son," "You Gotta Move," "Under My Thumb," "I'm Free," and "(I Can t Get No) Satisfaction."

Robin Gibb says that Noel and Liam Gallagher of Oasis are "mimicking" him and brothers Barry and the late Maurice Gibb's sometimes bitter rivalries, saying, "They're just copying us. We've been through all that. To be honest, I'm surprised they stayed together for as long as they did and I think they've gone as far as they can together." Gibb went on to say that the fellow Mancunians remind him of his relationships with his famous brothers, "but on a more physically violent level." (NME.com)

Out now is The Ultimate Bee Gees: The 50th Anniversary Collection. Highlights include: "You Should Be Dancing," "Stayin' Alive," "Jive Talkin'," "Night Fever," "Nights On Broadway," "More Than A Woman," "Tragedy," "Love You Inside & Out," "One," "Alone," "Fanny (Be Tender With My Love)," "If I Can't Have You," "How Deep Is Your Love," "Emotion," "Too Much Heaven," "New York Mining Disaster 1941," "To Love Somebody," "Holiday," "Massachusetts," "Words," "I Started A Joke," "Love So Right," "Lonely Days," "How Can You Mend A Broken Heart," "Run To Me," "I've Gotta Get A Message To You," and "Medley: 'Islands In The Stream,' 'Heartbreaker,' 'Guilty,' 'Immortality,' and 'Grease.'"

A memorial service for the late Mary Travers of Peter, Paul & Mary will be held on Monday (November 9th) New York City's Riverside Church at 9 a.m. The event is free and open to the public. Travers died on September 16th following a long battle with Leukemia. She was 72.

Performers and speakers will include Noel "Paul" Stookey, Peter Yarrow, Pete Seeger, Judy Collins, Senator John Kerry, Senator George McGovern, Anne Meara, Bill Moyers, Theo Bikel, Whoopi Goldberg, Tom Paxton, Eli Wallach, with Harry Belafonte, Bill Cosby and Gloria Steinem presented on tape. (peterpaulandmary.com)

BEATLES NEWS ROUNDUP…Bypassing iTunes and all other digital outlets entirely, the Beatles' company Apple Corps. has announced that the group's full catalogue will be available in North America starting on December 8th through a limited edition of 30,000 stereo USB "apples." On the official website thebeatles.com, it was announced: "The exquisitely crafted, apple-shaped USB drive is loaded with the critically acclaimed re-mastered audio for the Beatles' 14 stereo titles, as well as all of the re-mastered CDs' visual elements, including 13 mini-documentary films about the studio albums, replicated original UK album art, rare photos and expanded liner notes. A specially designed Flash interface has been installed, and the 16GB USB's audio and visual contents will be provided in FLAC 44.1 Khz 24 bit and MP3 320 Kbps formats, fully compatible with PC and Mac."

"The Beatles Limited Edition USB Stick" featuring their entire catalogue is available for pre-order at thebeatles.com for $279.00.

Paul McCartney recently defended the group's delay in getting the group's material out on the Internet: "Well, you know you've got to get these things right. You don't want to do something as cool as that, and then in three years time think. 'Oh God, why did we do that?'

CREEDENCE CLEARWATER REVIVAL RELEASES 'SINGLES COLLECTION'…Out now is Creedence Clearwater Revival's Singles Collection. The set, which is the first to feature all the A and B-sides of the band's career, also comes with a DVD featuring CCR's rarely seen promotional clips for "Sweet Hitch-Hiker," "I Heard It Through The Grapevine," "Bootleg," "I Put A Spell On You," and "Lookin' Out My Back Door."

Bassist Stu Cook says that the acoustic-based "Looking' Out My Back Door" remains among his favorite of the group's classic 45's: "We just rehearsed it a few times, rehearsed it and cut it. Usually we cut the singles as they were written, so it was just one of many. I think there's electric rhythm guitars in there, but off course acoustics and the dobro are really the featured instruments."

John Fogerty was asked which of his classic CCR hits he couldn't get away with not playing every night: "Probably either 'Bad Moon (Rising)' or 'Proud Mary.' If I was to skip both of 'em -- that would probably be trouble. (Laughs) And 'Fortunate Son's' probably right up there in that group."

Highlights on CCR's Singles Collection are: "Suzie Q, Pts. 1 and 2," "Proud Mary," "Born On The Bayou," "Bad Moon Rising," "Lodi," "Green River," "Commotion," "Fortunate Son," "Down On The Corner," "Traveling' Band," "Who'll Stop the Rain," "Up Around The Bend," "Lookin' Out My Back Door," "Someday Never Comes," and "Hey Tonight," among others.

STEVIE NICKS SAYS PANIC ATTACKS FORCED CHRISTINE McVIE TO RETIRE…Stevie Nicks says that it was a series of panic attacks which forced longtime Fleetwood Mac keyboardist Christine McVie to finally walk away from the band. Nicks, who's currently on tour with Fleetwood Mac in Britain, revealed to The Daily Mail, "Christine had been having panic attacks before gigs and was developing a fear of flying, but she kept everything bottled up inside. Then, on the night of the Grammys (in 1998), she told me she simply couldn't go on any more."

Nicks says that there was no doubt in her mind at the time that McVie was done with the band for good: "When you love someone as much as I love Christine, you know instantly when they are serious. Her big green eyes filled with tears as she spoke, and I started welling up, too. I told her she needed to go home immediately, and she did. She flew home to England and she hasn't been back to the States since."

Nicks was asked how she feels fronting what she's often called a "boys club" without McVie sharing the stage with her: "Being the only girl in Fleetwood Mac? You have to understand, I've been the only girl in Fleetwood Mac now since 1998 and it's 2009. I'm used to it now. I miss Christine every day because she was my best buddy. She was my best friend. And I probably spent more time on the road with Fleetwood Mac than anywhere. I've spent more time with these people than I have with my own family. So the loss of Christine as one of my best girlfriends was horrific for me. But she's been gone a long, long, time now. There's not a day that I don't wish that she'd call up and say 'I'm back!' -- but she's not going to. So we've all kind've accepted that now."

RUSH MEETING IN LOS ANGELES TO DISCUSS FUTURE…Rush drummer Neil Peart wrote at the "News Weather And Sports" section of his website, neilpeart.net, that the Canadian trio will be getting together this month in Los Angeles to discuss their future. Peart wrote, "In this autumn of 2009, the three of us are poised on another kind of 'reinvention' . . . Of course, these are parlous times in the music business, so our time-honored pattern of touring, recording, and touring is no longer the obvious way to do things. The music world -- or at least the business of it -- is very different now, even since 2006, when we began work on (2007 album) Snakes & Arrows. The importance of 'the album' is not what it was, and there is currently a reversion to a musical climate rather like the 1950s, when only 'the song' matters."

Peart adds, "The three of us haven't even discussed what we might discuss, so to speak -- so our ideas and shared enthusiasm for the entity of Rush will be fresh, spontaneous, and quite likely exciting."

The drummer says that in lieu of a full album funded by a record label, the band could "write and record just a few songs, and release them some way. Or there were a couple of film-and-music projects we had discussed in the past. In any case, there are enough possibilities for future collaboration, and I am curious to see what we'll come up with."

Snakes & Arrows was Rush's 18th studio album.

The band, who should be in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame at this point, will release a new CD and DVD, both titled Working Men, on November 17th. The discs compile some of the best live performances from the band's three previous concert DVDs: Rush In Rio, R30 and Snakes & Arrows Live.

That’s it for now as always, if you can’t be good, be good at it and don’t get caught!!

Jonathan