Feeling out of sorts today? Scientists have discovered a cure for the Monday morning blues - stop sleeping in on weekends.

A recent study has found that lazy Saturday and Sunday lie-ins can disturb your body clock, leaving you fatigued at the start of the week.

Sleep expert Leon Lack said people often used the weekend to catch up on sleep lost during the week. But while this might help pay off a "sleep debt", it came at a cost.

"We've discovered that these sleep-ins are actually putting your body out of whack enough to change your Sunday night bedtime and set you up for Monday blues," Professor Lack said.

His research team tested the theory by tracking 16 people over a weekend, asking them to go to bed a little later than they would on a weeknight but sleeping-in an extra two hours. By comparing saliva samples and hormone tests he found participants' body clocks had been delayed by 45 minutes.

"That might not sound like a lot but it means that you're not quite as sleepy on Sunday night at the normal bedtime and you'll be much sleepier the next day," Prof Lack said.

Questionnaires completed on Monday and Tuesday showed much higher levels of self-reported fatigue and tiredness compared with pre sleep in days. This was because the subjects' circadian rhythms - which determine patterns of alertness and tiredness - had been disturbed, creating an effect similar to jet lag.

By mid-week most people manage to get back on track but then they start staying up later, getting into "debt" once again and perpetuating the cycle.

Here's a few fun ways you can make Monday bearable again:

· Act like it's Friday. Go around work wearing a TGIF button and a big smile. At first, nobody'll go along. But when you keep insisting it's Friday and that happy hour drinks are on you after work... they'll come around.

· Don't let the weekend go. Show up at work in pajama bottoms and slippers. Then call out for pizza and spend the whole day watching sports on TV. It won't feel like a workday, and soon it won't be - because they're bound to send you home.

· Extra long lunch. Shuffle papers around for awhile, then go to lunch at ten. Take an hour to decide where to eat, another hour to order... and chew real slow. Then catch a movie so when you get back to work at 4, you have just enough time to wrap things up and go home like it never even happened. What Monday?

· Rename the day. Change your calendars so Monday is now Funday. Then train yourself to actually like going to work more than you like sleeping late, loafing around and doing whatever else you do on weekends. But then you have to deal with the Saturday and Sunday Blues.

· Quit your job. The whole reason we hate Monday's is because it means going back to work. No job, no Monday blues. It couldn't be simpler. Unless paying the rent and eating everyday are things you're fond of.

 

Fire Closes Monte Carlo In Vegas

A fire on the roof of the Monte Carlo hotel-casino Friday sent flaming embers raining down onto the Las Vegas strip, and sent gamblers running. Luckily, no serious injuries were reported.

"It could have been very serious," Clark County Fire Chief Steve Smith said. "Due to the aggressive firefighting tactics of our personnel we were able to contain it."The fire that damaged the landmark's visage was under control in about an hour.

The fire was largely confined to the rooftop and upper floors, but the burned exterior will have to be removed or secured before they can reopen, said the chief county building inspector on Saturday. A spokesman for the casino company was not sure how long repairs would take.

Guests and employees were evacuated but were allowed back into the hotel late Friday and Saturday with security escorts to retrieve their personal items.

 

Lionsgate, Marvel Reach Deals With Striking Writers

An interim agreement has been made between the Writers Guild of America (WGA) and Lionsgate studio, enabling writers to work on its projects and Lionsgate projects to move forward.

Comic-book-movie giant Marvel Studios has also reached an agreement with the guild.

Writers and producers have resumed talks in hopes of ending the strike that has stopped most prime-time television production.

Writers already have reached temporary deals with production companies and studios including United Artists and Worldwide Pants.

The WGA reached its first interim deal with Worldwide Pants, the production company owned by late-night TV host David Letterman, which allowed his show and another one produced by his firm, The Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson, to return to the air during the strike with writing teams intact.

The WGA said it also has reached deals with Spyglass Entertainment, MRC, Jackson Bites, Mandate Films, and Sidney Kimmel Entertainment.

 

Miss Michigan Crowned Miss America

Kirsten Haglund, otherwise known as Miss Michigan, was crowned Miss America 2008 on Saturday.She is the first Miss America to come from the pageant's "new, hipper look."

Haglund beat Miss Indiana Nicole Elizabeth Rash, the first runner up, and Miss Washington Elyse Umemoto, the second runner up for the crown and the $50,000 scholarship and year of travel that comes with it.

TLC aired a series called Miss America: Reality Check, an attempt at updating this year's 52 contestants from "pageant queens" to "it girls."

Haglund will embark on a year of promoting the pageant, awareness for eating disorders (her chosen platform issue), and the Children's Miracle Network, a pageant partner.

 

COMPANIES GETTING MORE FAMILY FRIENDLY

According to a new survey, employers are finally coming around and getting more family friendly. Sixty-two percent of companies have made policy changes to better accommodate working parents.

"Many employees are juggling multiple priorities and appreciate these types of programs," said Diane Domeyer, executive director of OfficeTeam, the temp company that sponsored the survey. "Programs that support work-life balance are attractive to professionals, especially members of the 'sandwich generation' - those caring for both children and elderly parents."

Working parents aren't the only ones who benefit from perks such as telecommuting, flextime, extended family leave and elder care. Some employees are juggling different things and appreciate any program that eases their stress.

Suggestions:

A hobby or side-job that keeps you out of the office for days at a time.

A pet that comes to the office with you.

Attending school.

 

GROUP PROMOTES FEMALE PARTICIPATION IN COMIC BOOK INDUSTRY

The comic book industry recently conducted a survey about their readers and found that average mainstream comic book readers are ...

20 to 25 years old

video game enthusiasts

single

male

In other words, the survey discovered that the stereotype of a typical comic book reader (geeky guys) is pretty accurate.

Shannon Crane is a comic book fan who wants to change the fact that more than 90% of the readers of comics are male. She is president of Friends of Lulu, "a national organization whose purpose is to encourage female readership and participation in the comic book industry."

 

Punishment Fits The Crime

Painesville, Ohio ... A judge ordered a Salvation Army bell ringer who stole a holiday red kettle containing about $250 to spend the night homeless.

Municipal Judge Michael Cicconetti ordered Nathen Smith, 28, to spend the night anywhere but a house. Smith was even fitted with a GPS device to track his movements.

"My initial reaction was, 'Wow.' But I don't think the sentence is too harsh," said Smith, who expected to spend the night in a homeless shelter. "I can see the judge's point because what I did, I shouldn't have done. Now I've got to pay the consequences."

Smith, who also received a three-day jail sentence, pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor charge of theft.

He worked as a bell ringer for the Salvation Army outside a Kmart store on December 17. Police arrested him at his mother's house after a co-worker reported that one of eight kettles was missing.

Where's My House?

Moscow, Russia ... A woman who returned home from vacation got a very unpleasant surprise -- her house was missing. Yes, her entire house.

Seems her home was torn down mistakenly by construction workers clearing a site. They were supposed to tear down a nearby house that had been marked for demolition.

"There was nothing left, not even a log," the woman said.

The builder reportedly offered the woman money -- but she has refused, saying it wasn't enough even to rent a room on the outskirts of the city. She is now suing.

Cat Saves 8 Lives

Allendale, Michigan ... A cat named Oreo saved the lives of eight people when their house caught on fire, officials said.

Oreo began to cry when flames started in the family's garage about 5 a.m. on Thursday.

Fire officials said the smoke detectors in the house did not sound when the fire started, but, luckily, Oreo did. The cat's cries reportedly woke the family of eight and sent them rushing out of the house.

Fire damaged the garage and one bedroom, officials said.

 

JEN WON'T GO

The annual 2008 pre-Oscar's party is being held this year on Saturday, February 23, at the Beverly Hills Hotel and three of the event's hosts are Brad Pitt, Angelina Jolie -- and Jennifer Aniston! However, before we get too excited about Jen and Angelina finally crossing paths, Jen's rep told PageSix.com that she might not be able to attend.. Although Jen's rep admits Jen is on the host committee, Jen "doesnt know if her production schedule will allow her to attend" (Jen is currently filming Traveling in Vancouver).

Other celebrity couples scheduled to attend the event are Katie Holmes & Tom Cruise, Reese Witherspoon & Jake Gyllenhaal, and Will Smith & Jada Pinkett Smith.

And Speaking Of Brangelina...

Star magazine is saying Angelina is pregnant again -- with twins! Rumors of pregnancy started after Angelina appeared at the Critics' Choice awards on January 7 looking a lot healthier than usual and not stick-thin. And while Brad drank beer, Angelina stuck to water.

"Brad and Angelina are absolutely ecstatic," a "source" says. "But I still think there will be more adoptions to come."

THE MOVIES HE PASSED UP

In a recent interview, Sylvester Stallone admitted that he'd turned down starring in these movies over the years: Superman, Beverly Hills Cop, Die Hard, and Witness.

WHY IS SHE SINGING AGAIN?

Perezhilton.com reports Paula Abdul's 100% performing her new song at the Super Bowl this weekend. But, of course, it's being pre-taped.

 

NO ONE CARES SHANNA

Shanna Moakler is so pathetic. She's STILL talking about that fight she got into with Paris Hilton that happened over a year ago! So sad when the best things you've done in life are over. Shanna was Miss USA 1995, she married TWO famous men (Oscar de la Hoya, and Blink 182's Travis Barker) and she's had a few kids. What's left, really?

Shanna wrote on her loser MySpace blog: "Never in all my life did I ever think having a confrontation with a whore in a club or the complete heartbreaking ups and downs of my marriage which sadly have to play out in front on the public, would take center stage...the reality is having a sex tape and letting men piss on you, getting DUI's , flashing your crotch and going to jail is apparently today, the image young men and woman strive for to get their foot in the door."

THIS IS SUCH BS

According to a recent survey by Harris Interactive, U.S. adults see firefighters, scientists, teachers, doctors, military officers and nurses as the most prestigious occupations. The least prestigious? Real estate brokers, actors, bankers, accountants, entertainers, stockbrokers, union leaders, journalists, business executives and athletes!

FAST ENOUGH?

Slow down, you move too fast ... NO! I CAN'T. I'M FRANTIC. GOTTA GET STUFF DONE... We live in world today where if it isn't done fast, it isn't done right. In fact, it seems in the workforce -- it's not always the most talented person to get the job -- it's who can do it the quickest -- thus getting the most done in a single day. Don't agree? Here's a snapshot of how hyper our culture has become...

The average workweek is 47 hours -- up from 34 hours two decades ago.

There's no time for home-cooked meals: Children consumed 300% more food from fast food restaurants in 1996 than in 1977. Not surprisingly, one-third fewer families report regularly eating together today compared with three decades ago.

Most of us get 90 minutes less sleep per night than our great-grandparents did.

Almost 28% of fewer families take vacations now than two decades ago.

55 mph was the national speed limit from 1973 to 1995; now it's 65 mph to 75 mph in most states.

 

4 REASONS HE'S NOT TALKING

Why is he being so quiet? Unless he's comatose in front of the TV, sports blaring, there's a reason. Cosmo says there are four possibilities why he suddenly went mute...

He feels guilty. When your man has committed a minor crime, he may get quiet to avoid incriminating himself.

You undermined him. When you question your man or make a biting comment in front of other people, he feels stupid. After attacking his manhood, you can count on getting the cold shoulder.

He wants you to quiet down. Blabbing about the high-calorie count of your dinner or how your brother's new girlfriend isn't right for him are things men don't care about. Men stay quiet as a way of letting women know that they're not interested in talking about dumb stuff.

He had a hard day. If his day sucked, he's not going to feel like talking about it. You might feel better venting, but he doesn't... at least not today.

And Speaking Of Guys Not Saying Anything...

Cosmo asked guys what they were afraid to tell their girlfriends...

"I was dating a woman ten years older than I am, so I wouldn't tell her my real age. Well, she found out by looking me up online, and she dumped me."

"If I want to hang out with the guys, I'll cancel on my girlfriend and make up some kind of an excuse. Telling her the truth would only create drama."

"I had a girlfriend, but I'd still give my number to other women for fun. When my cell would ring, I'd just say it was a wrong number. How could I tell her the truth?"

 

FOOTBALL AND WRESTLING ARE FUELING VIOLENCE IN GUYS

Reports are constantly coming out about how terrible movies, TV, and videogames are for kids.

Well, here's a new one ... It looks like wrestling and football are bad for you too.

According to a new study from Penn State University, playing football and wrestling may fuel aggressive and violent behavior -- not only among the players, but also among their friends on and off the field.

"Sports such as football, basketball, and baseball provide players with a certain status in society," said researcher Derek Kreager. "But football and wrestling are associated with violent behavior because both sports involve some physical domination of the opponent, which is rewarded by the fans, coaches and other players."

Compared with non-athletes, football players and wrestlers are at a higher risk of getting into a serious fight by over 40%. High-contact sports that are associated with aggression and masculinity increase the risk of violence, he concluded.

"Players are encouraged to be violent outside the sport because they are rewarded for being violent inside it," Kreager said.

The study found that violent behavior was not restricted to players alone. Instead, the risk of getting involved in fights increased with the proportion of friends who played football.

"Males with all-football friends are expected to have a 45% probability of getting into a serious fight -- more than 8% higher than similar individuals with no football friends and almost 20% higher than males with all tennis friends," Derek Kreager said.

Kreager believes pressure on teams to win games may be contributing to the problem, because it makes coaches want to build a stronger team by putting aggressive players on the team and encouraging a "win at all costs" attitude both on and off the field.

 

Sucking the life out of the wire services:
Your new Miss America: dark-eyed, blond-haired Miss Michigan, 19-year-old KIRSTEN HAGLUND. She wants to use the crown to raise awareness of eating disorders. Her talent was singing opera --and she wants to pursue a career on Broadway after her reign. In the meantime, she picked up a $50-thousand scholarship which should help her out at the Cincinnati Conservatory of Music.
The first runner up: Miss Indiana, NICOLE ELIZABETH RASH. Second runner up: Miss Washington, ELYSE UMEMOTO.
The top five also included: California, and Texas.
The top 10 also included: Iowa, Georgia, North Carolina, Wisconsin, and Virginia.
Best moment of the pageant: after Miss Utah, JILL STEVENS --who'd been chosen as "America's Favorite" by internet voting-- was axed after the swimsuit round, she dropped on the floor and led the girls in 20 impromptu pushups! She apparently picked up that talent while serving in Afghanistan as a combat medic!
The pageant, hosted by "Entertainment Tonight's" MARK STEINES, was run on the TLC cable channel, and broadcast live from the Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino on the Las Vegas strip.
# # #
Things that might make the Miss America Pageant more interesting (Maiman):
--New "Recently Female" division
--Accidentally leave the price tag on your breasts
--Contestants who shout to the judges, "Don't forget last night at the Marriott!"
--Miss North Dakota must spend entire pageant on Miss South Dakota's shoulders
--More emphasis than ever on oxyacetylene welding
--"Swimsuit, Evening Gown and Talent" segments replaced with "Punt, Pass and Kick"
--New hair-pulling competition judged by Jerry Springer
--Your "talent" is eating a 64-ounce steak in 45 seconds
--Girls still make lame speeches about world affairs, but now they do it naked
--Two words: Tiara rash
# # #
Ever wonder why beauty pageant queens never have a problem with their swimsuits riding up on them? Why, it's "Firm Grip," which contestants use to keep the swimsuits in place.
In the biz, contestants call it "butt spray" or, our preference, "butt glue."
Yours for only $15.99 a can.
# # #
E! Online.com reports that CHRISTOPHER WALKEN and CHARLIZE THERON are headed for Harvard University after being given the title of Man and Woman of the Year for the Hasty Pudding Theatricals. The two will be "roasted" during separate ceremonies and Charlize gets to lead a parade through Cambridge, Massachusetts. (Lee)
# # #
SUZANNE PLESHETTE didn't live long enough to see her own induction into the Hollywood Walk of Fame. E!Online.com reports that she'll still get the star treatment this Thursday, which have been her 71st birthday. BOB NEWHART is expected to speak at the ceremony, which will be in front of the Frederick's of Hollywood store, per Ms. Pleshette's request. (Lee)
# # #
GEORGE CLOONEY tells Newsweek magazine that he had quite a scare recently after hearing helicopters flying over his home. Fearing that a prisoner had escaped, the brave A-list star went out to take a look around, realized the whirlybirds were there to monitor the BRITNEY SPEARS meltdown and is now looking for a new home. (Lee)
# # #
JESSICA SIMPSON is madder than a wet hen after rumors surfaced Friday that TONY ROMO had dropped back 15 and punted her outta his life for good. Not so, according to Jess, whose lawyers sent a latter to the editor in chief of OK! magazine, which printed the original rumor, claiming the article was "utterly false" and "based on nothing more than rumor, gossip and innuendo."
Going that extra mile, Jessica's attorneys also claim the whole thing is part of a "smear campaign" that they believe has subjected Jess to "public contempt, ridicule, aversion or disgrace." They want an immediate retraction from the magazine or else (read $$$). And if all that wasn't enough, PerezHilton.com says Jess and Tony were spotted vacationing together in Rancho Mirage, CA, this past weekend.
# # #
This week's National Enquirer tabloid claims a 25-year-old former Victoria's Secret model has allegedly had two children with magician DAVID COPPERFIELD and is living in a multi-million Las Vegas home that he owns. Czech model MARIE PETLICKOVA's attorney [Editor's note: yes, it really doesn't sound all that real, does it] told the Enquirer, "David is a wonderful, loving and caring father."
# # #
EVA LONGORIA is still denying rumors that she's expecting. People magazine reports the "Desperate Housewife" was spotted buying Dolce & Gabbana baby clothes this week, but her rep claims the infant couture is a gift for her heavily-pregnant buddy, JENNIFER LOPEZ. (Lee)
# # #
MADONNA is serious about keeping her body fit, and is willing to pony up the cash to do it. The Daily Mail reports the material mom purchased a house right next door to her London home and turned the residence into a state-of-the-art gym. Word is she wanted to join the fitness center onto her existing property, but couldn't get the permits. Poor thing now has to walk 20 yards to her 12-million-dollar workout facility. (Lee)
# # #
BRITNEY SPEARS' uncle is the latest to weigh in on the pop wreck's issues, and tells the British tabloid the London Sun that his famous niece has not yet reached the depth of her despair. WILLIAM SPEARS says Britney's done nearly every drug imaginable and is ruthless and bossy. Meanwhile, her recovery may take a while --Uncle Bill claims that no one can control her which is why there isn't anything anyone can do. (Lee)
# # #
Sources tell People magazine that LINDSAY LOHAN spent some quality time with BRODY JENNER of "The Hills" last Friday night. Word is the two got cozy inside two New York night clubs until 3:30 am, and sources say they're "sweet" together. This might come as a surpise to CORA SKINNER, who was supposedly Brody's latest girlfriend. (Lee)
# # #
Sucks to be you:
HALLE BERRY surprised the world by admitting she'd like to stay pregnant forever, but there's a good reason for it-she's terrified of giving birth! The beauty tells Reveal magazine that she's more nervous about going into labor than she was before winning her Oscar Award and has realized that there's a baby on the way which someone will need to push out. Meanwhile, Halle has diabetes, which has cause complications during childbirth so she'll need to be monitored extremely carefully. (Lee)
# # #
Trolling for publicity:
SCARLETT JOHANSSON denies that she's planning to walk down the aisle with boyfriend RYAN REYNOLDS, but does admit being engaged to BARACK OBAMA. People magazine reports she told reporters upon her return from the USO tour that her heart belongs to the Democratic hopeful while she says that everyone she met overseas was very sweet. (Lee)
# # #
Sucking up:
TIM BURTON is truly after HELENA BONHAM CARTER's heart. CINDY ADAMS of the NY Post reports that after finding out she was pregnant with the couple's second child, he went out and bought her four pairs of motorcycle boots and several more pairs of lace-up boots after giving birth. (Lee)
# # #
OWEN WILSON really knows how to treat himself! Life and Style Weekly reports the unstable star dropped $300 on a new bong last week while in Venice, CA. Owen's drug use was rumored to be a contributing factor to his suicide attempt last year. (Lee)
# # #
Like you really care:
IVANA TRUMP's ex-husband, DONALD, is a generous guy. CINDY ADAMS of the NY Post reports that the "Apprentice" mastermind has given his ex-wife the use of his Florida Mar-a-Lago estate for her upcoming wedding on April 12. Plan on dressing the part if you're invited --the invitation states that women are requested to wear solid pastel gowns in colors other than pink and yellow and the gentlemen's dress code is white-tie. (Lee)
# # #
TARA REID feels no sympathy for jailbirds PARIS HILTON or LINDSAY LOHAN. She tells Ireland Online that the duo broke the law and got what they deserved, while taking a moment to defend her own party-girl reputation. Tara feels she's unjustly persecuted when all she's ever done is dance on tables and can't understand why "people punish others for being happy." (Lee)
# # #
Baby showers from Star magazine:
--JENNIFER LOPEZ had a pink and blue themed shower for her twins she's expecting with MARC ANTHONY
--HALLE BERRY threw herself a Moroccan themed shower complete with a henna tattoo artist
# # #
ASHLEE SIMPSON is now a redhead. A pic in this weeks Star magazine shows the singer with beau PETE WENTZ at the "Cloverfield" premiere with her new dyed locks.
# # #
The "American Idol" cast wasn't always so cool. Pics in this weeks Star magazine show SIMON COWELL with FARRAH FAWCETT hair when he was 17, RANDY JACKSON had a massively tall flat top and wore MICHAEL JACKSON clothes while playing bass and touring with ELTON JOHN, JOURNEY and BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN. And RYAN SEACREST was a 16-year-old DJ in Atlanta who posed with his shirt off!
# # #
KIRSTEN DUNST is devastated that her ex-, JAKE GYLLENHAAL, is in love. Star magazine reports that the actress looks pale and thin after finding out that Jake and girlfriend REESE WITHERSPOON are close to getting engaged.
Meanwhile, Jake's mom NAOMI FONNER isn't thrilled about his relationship with Reese. She thinks that Reese has too much baggage having two kids and Jake should find someone younger with no kids.
# # #
GEORGE CLOONEY and girlfriend SARAH LARSON are moving in together. According to Star magazine, the couple is always together so George thought it made sense to cohabitate. He also bought her clothes to keep on the east coast so she doesn't have to pack a bag and even told her to use his credit card if she needs anything!
# # #
MATTHEW McCONAUGHEY isn't ready to get married yet. Star magazine reports that the dad-to-be isn't saying no to baby mama CAMILLA ALVES but he's a little scared of the complete commitment.
# # #
New couple alert from Star magazine: "High School Musical's" CORBIN BLEU and actress LAUREN STORM. (Myers)
# # #

Stupid people, stupid places:
Where exactly would you look if you wanted to hire a hit-man? The Grand Rapids Press reports that a Michigan woman used the Craig'sList website for her killing needs.
48-year old ANN MARIE LINSCOTT put up a "freelance job offer" at the site, offering very few details about her job. Ann Marie did get three replies, though. She allegedly told each of them they'd get $5-thousand dollars if they'd off the wife of a guy she was having an affair with. In her words: "This IS a serious proposition... (looking for) silent assassins."
FBI Special Agent ISLAM OMAR came across Ann's assassin-search. When Omar asked her what she wanted done, Ann allegedly said "Duh... have (the other woman) killed." The massage therapist is now in jail, leaving behind a beautiful suburban home, her husband, and two teenagers. (Couchman)
# # #
Getting even:
Stabbing somebody is a pretty good sign that you're not in your right mind. Suing the person you stabbed is another good sign you're nuts.
According to the Flint Journal, a 50-year old psychologist went bananas on Christmas Eve, taking his knife to LISA HEINTZ and a 17-year old helping her move.
Dr. WILLIAM HARSHMAN claims Lisa and her husband, KURT, drove him to "financial ruin." The doctor and his wife used to be friends with Lisa and Kurt. They did some business together. But Dr. Will's marriage fell apart, as did some business arrangements. That's why he pointed the finger, and the blade, at Lisa and Kurt.
And even though Lisa's family is recovering from the doc's knife attack, he's still suing the family for $5-million dollars. (Couchman)
# # #

This weekend's hot movies (Daily Variety):
"Meet the Spartans" just edged out SYLVESTER STALLONE's "Rambo" on what appeared to be a lackluster weekend for the movies. Not so --all the movies were just bunched around the $10 million mark, and the gross for the top five was $75 million --not bad at all for a January weekend. The rest of the top-10:
10. "Mad Money," $4.6 million;
9. "National Treasure: Book of Secrets," $4.7 million;
8. "There Will Be Blood," $4.9 million;
7. "The Bucket List," $10.2 million;
6. "Juno," $10.3 million;
5. "Untraceable," (debut), $11.2 million;
4. "Cloverfield," $12.7 million;
3. "27 Dresses," $13.8 million;
2. "Rambo," (debut), $18.2 million;
1. "Meet the Spartans," (debut), $18.7 million.
# # #

Survivor: real life:
It's a cold, wintry morning. You see a 68-year old woman braving the elements in her wheelchair, trying to cross the street. Then, boom! Her chair is clipped as a car drives by. The old-lady is thrown to the ground, and when the cops show up, they say it's her, not the driver who hit her, that deserves the ticket. According to the Grand Rapids Press, that's exactly how it went down. The 24-year old driver saw the elderly gal in her wheelchair, and unsuccessfully swerved to avoid her. Deputy TIM ERHARDT said the old woman should have been on the sidewalk."We looked at the sidewalks, they were clear (of snow)." That made the accident her fault, and authorities are deciding whether she should get a ticket. Thankfully, the 68-year old's injuries were minor. (Couchman)
# # #
Life imitated art in Chesterton, IN
Inspired by the movie "A Christmas Story," two fourth grade boys stuck their tongues on an elementary school flagpole to see if they'd stick. They did. A school nurse tells the Munster Times, "They learned their lesson."
We don't know who triple-dog dared who but one of the kids said, "I decided to try it because I thought all of the TV shows were lies, but turns out I was wrong."
# # #
Swallowing the punch:
It only figures that since some Star Wars fans are pretty fanatical, it was only a matter of time before they became religious Star Wars zealots. London's Daily Mail found the Jedi Church, which boasts having 400-thousand members around the world. They have regular church services just like any other religion, with Yoda prominently displayed and 2 Light-saber holding knights standing guard at the altar.
26-year old hairdresser BARNEY JONES, and his 21-year old brother DANIEL, run a Jedi Church in the U-K because, as Barney puts it, "We think of it as proper lifestyle enhancement...it can't be bad if it makes life better."
If you decide to worship Jedi-style, Barney wants you to expect a proper schooling too. "We will have teachings based on Yoda - the 900-year-old grand master - as well as readings, essays submitted, meditation and relaxation, visualization and discuss healthy eating. The Jedi religion is about life improvement, inner peace and changing your lifestyle so you have a more fulfilling existence."
Polling America:
Woman's Day magazine asked women about marriage: "Do you keep secrets from your husband?"
--Small stuff, like how much I spent on a shopping spree: 51 percent
--I've hidden major things from him (i.e. credit card debt): 25 percent
--We don't keep secrets: 24 percent
# # #

 

Colbert Raises $171,000 For Charity
Stephen Colbert's "WristStrong" bracelets (a parody of Lance Armstrong's cancer-awareness "LiveStrong" bracelets) have raised more than $171, 000 since he began selling them as part of his "wrist awareness" campaign. Colbert broke his wrist last June, and started "wrist awareness" on his mock pundit show on Comedy Central.
On Wednesday night's The Colbert Report the proceeds were presented to the Yellow Ribbon Fund, a charity that assists injured service members and their families.
The cast from Colbert's broken wrist was earlier auctioned off, raising $17,000 for the Yellow Ribbon fund.

Marijuana And Work Don't Mix
The California Supreme Court ruled that employers can fire workers who use medical marijuana even if it was legally recommended by a doctor.
The high court upheld a Sacramento company's firing of a man who flunked a company-ordered drug test. Gary Ross held a medical marijuana card authorizing him to use the drug to treat a back injury sustained while serving in the Air Force.
The company fired Ross on the basis that all marijuana use is illegal under federal law.
Ross argued that medical marijuana users should receive the same workplace protection that employees with valid painkiller prescriptions do. California voters legalized medicinal marijuana in 1996.
The ruling is a setback for medical marijuana laws that exist in California and 11 other states.

Cabbie Undercover
New York's Taxi and Limousine Commission (TLC) is using undercover investigators to go after rude cabbies.
TLC Commissioner Matthew Daus said the investigators will hail cabs and watch for drivers refusing to accept credit cards, talking on cell phones, and engaging in other rude behaviors.
"The word on the street is these are the issues that passengers are complaining about most," he said.
Fines of between $150 and $350 could be issued for taxi drivers who refuse to accept credit cards for payment (drivers often refuse to accept plastic because of a $5 surcharge) and $150 fines and 2-point penalties could be issued to cabbies who talk on their cell phones and are otherwise rude to customers.
Cabbies could lose their taxi licenses if they rack up too many points.
Get Your Rebates Here
Details have been released about that economic stimulus package you've been hearing so much about. Most tax filers will get refunds of $600 to $1,200, and more if they have children.
The agreement follows a week of intense negotiation and has been agreed upon by both parties.Each party had to drop a number of issues on the table in order to come to the agreement.
Democrats and Republicans agreed from the start on tax rebates. Each income tax payer will get up to $600 and an additional $300 for each of their children. People will likely begin getting their rebates in July.
Businesses will be able to write more of their expenses off, but businesses with losses will not be able to reclaim any money from tax they already paid. Food stamps and additional unemployment benefits had to be dropped, but nearly everyone who earns a paycheck will get at least $300 in their tax rebate.
Here's the brief info on what is in and what's out of the stimulus package:
What's In
Tax rebates: of at least $300 for almost everyone & an additional $300 per child.
Business tax write-offs: more generous expensing rules.
Housing rescue: Raising the limit on Federal Housing Administration loans
What's Out
Permanent tax cuts
Extended Unemployment insurance
Additional Food Stamp benefits
Medicaid: States will not receive payments
Low-income heating subsidies
Spending on transportation or repair projects already under way (Infrastructure spending)
Businesses suffering losses will not get to claim previously paid taxes

TEENAGERS UPSET ABOUT PARENTS ON MYSPACE

It used to be that teenagers could use MySpace and Facebook without worrying about their parents seeing their words and pictures. It used to be that parents did their own thing -- and teenagers had their own places to go on the Internet. Not anymore.
These days, average, middle-aged adults have Gmail, upload videos on YouTube, and have just as many high-tech gadgets as their teenaged kids.
And, this is making many teenagers uncomfortable. Many teens don't like the idea of old folks hanging out on what they consider their technological turf.
Gary Rudman, a youth market researcher says he often interviews young people who think it's "creepy" when an older person, like a relative or adult family friend, asks to join their social network as a "friend." It means, of course, that they can look at each others' profiles and what they and their friends post.
"It would be like a 40-year-old attending the prom or a frat party," Gary says. "It just doesn't work."
Here are some ways that teenagers have tried to stay ahead of the game...
They use Twitter, which allows blogging from cell phones or BlackBerrys
They use high-frequency ringtones that teens can hear -- but most adults can't.
Where Should Parents Draw the Line ...?
It's tough for most parents to let their kids just run wild -- even in cyberspace. Today's parents have to deal with some challenges that have never before been an issue.
"As parents, we have to figure out where to draw the line between encouraging and allowing our teens to have autonomy, to experience their separate culture, and when we need to monitor their use of media," says Kathryn Montgomery, a professor of communication at American University.
Kathryn Montgomery also says it's important to help young people understand that social networking is often more public than they think. And, sometimes, monitoring them is the best way to do that.

ENGLAND MAY BE PAYING FAT PEOPLE TO LOSE WEIGHT

Over the past year or two, there have been scattered stories about cities paying overweight people to lose weight. But now, the entire country of Great Britain is considering it.
Just like in America, health officials in Great Britain are struggling with an obesity epidemic. Because there's a nationalized health plan over there, the added health costs of obesity are costing the government billions of dollars every year.
By the Numbers...
25% of all adults and one in five children in England are obese.
By 2050 at least 60% of the population will be obese.
Obesity is expected to cost the government tens of billions of dollars a year by then.
So, a plan has been written up that would give money to people to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle. Vouchers would be given to overweight people to spend on healthy food -- and cash prizes would be given to those who lose weight.

Two Eggs, Toast, And A Side of Busted
Springfield, Connecticut ... Two men eating breakfast at Denny's didn't have time to finish their eggs -- police arrested them after spotting stolen stereo equipment inside their car.
According to police, the men, both 18, were arrested after officers saw the stolen equipment, which still had wires attached, in their vehicle -- which matched the description of a car spotted in the area of three reported car burglaries Tuesday night and early Wednesday morning.
The suspects were charged with several crimes, including three counts of third-degree burglary, conspiracy to commit third-degree burglary, and tampering with a motor vehicle.
And speaking of eggs ...
Tough Case To Crack?
Bedford, Texas ... Police are looking for a thief who threw an egg at a 7-Eleven cashier and ran off with a burrito.
The thief, who was described as 6-foot-2 and 250 pounds, reportedly hit the clerk in the back of the head with an egg and ran off without paying for his small burrito. The clerk told police the man sped off in a white car.
Little People, Big Crime
Stockholm, Sweden ... Tourists traveling on long-distance bus trips are being warned to be extra careful -- it seems a gang of thieves is using little people to rob busses.
Swedish police said the thieves sneak the dwarves into the luggage compartment in duffle bags and once they're inside, the little people get out of the bags and sift through the luggage of the passengers.
Once they've collected their loot, the dwarves sneak back into the duffle bags and just wait to be picked up when the bus reaches its destination.
According to police the favorite target of the thieves-using-dwarves are Swebus buses, which cater to British passengers traveling in Sweden.
"We have had reports about several thefts by dwarves on the stretch between Vasteras and Stockholm," said a spokesman for Swebus. "We're thinking of installing video cameras."
He Shot Himself In The Foot -- Literally
Cherryville, North Carolina ... A man's plans to rob a convenience store didn't quite work out when he accidentally shot himself in the foot.
According to police, Kelvin Roberts, 28, dropped a .45-caliber handgun in front of Gasland USA. The gun hit the ground and went off, hitting Roberts in the foot.
He faces several charges that include attempted robbery with a dangerous weapon and possession of a weapon of mass destruction. Police said the handgun had been altered to fire .410 shotgun shells.

THEY MIGHT AS WELL GET PAID...
Dennis Hof, the owner of Nevada's Moonlight Bunnyranch (featured on the HBO show Cathouse) thinks he could create a new show around Paris Hilton and Britney Spears, reports Page Six: "We can call it Celebrity Sex With Paris and Britney," he says. Dennis Hof thinks Paris and Britney do such slutty things -- why not televise it? As he says, "They're both tramps. They're giving it away for free, so they might as well get paid for it!" He could have a point. Dennis Hof says he's in talks with HBO to bring his idea to life, so stay tuned...
THE FLASHLIGHT WAS IN SAM'S FACE
TMZ reports Kevin's lawyer, Mark Vincent Kaplan (MVK), was all over Britney's manager/friend/whatever Sam Lutfi in court yesterday (Thursday). MVK asked Sam questions like...
...about the meds Britney takes.
...where she goes.
...what she does at home.
...what she drinks.
...Britney and Sam's relationship with photo agency X17Online and if he and Britney have a deal where they give X17 pictures of Britney and in return Brit and Sam get paid. X17 has denied there's any deal.
MVK also asked Sam where his income comes from and how he supports himself. Sam was also asked about his six lawsuits where he was reportedly sued. Sam said that "most of those suits were against his father," TMZ reports.
BRITNEY SCARES THE KIDDIES
Oh my ... Us Weekly is reporting that Britney caused a stir at a Beverly Hills elementary school when she was seen outside smoking a cigarette and talking to herself! "She was just rambling and confused," says a witness, who approached Britney to ask if she was OK. "She said, 'I'm here to pick up my kids.' But then she changed her story and said, 'They aren't my kids; I have a new attorney, and I came to pick them up for her.'" Okay...
But the funniest part is that Britney seemed to scare the kiddies! "It became the talk of the school. Some of the kids were freaked out," said a school source. Before getting into her car and driving off (without the imaginary kids she said she was picking up), Britney talked with the woman who had approached her and said to her: "You're so nice. You should give me your number. I don't have very many friends." LOL!
And Speaking Of Britney...
The NY Daily News reports the American Psychoanalytic Association has weighed in on Britney. At the group's annual winter conference at the Waldorf-Astoria, several APA members begged the media to stop speculating on Britney's supposed mental illness ... "This idea of making a diagnosis of someone they've never met is completely inappropriate," says Mark Smaller, a Chicago shrink and director of the Neuropsychoanalysis Foundation. "Trying to make such a diagnosis based purely on someone's behavior is scientifically impossible." Mark Smaller said that several extensive therapy sessions are needed to properly determine whether Britney is a nutcase or not.
TORI PREGNANT AGAIN
In Touch Weekly says Tori Spelling is pregnant with her second child. "They have been having so much fun with Liam (their son), they couldn't wait to have another," a "friend" told the magazine.

BRITNEY'S PHOBIAS
Remember Britney was heard saying, "I'm scared, I'm scared" in the parking lot of the last custody hearing she missed? One Web site speculates that maybe Britney suffers from "Legal Batophobia" -- the fear of court houses. LOL!
Here are some other phobias Britney seems to clearly suffer from:
Trichophobia -- fear of human hair. Hence the nasty weaves.
Lachanophobia -- fear of vegetables -- basically, fear of any foods not battered and deep-fried.
Hypengyophobia -- fear of responsibility. Probably the impetus for the new personalities and the chronic lateness.
Monophobia -- fear of being alone. Explains the paparazzi BFFs and the Sam Lufti entourage.
and the number one phobia plaguing Britney Spears:
Pedophobia -- fear of children. They always want you to do lame stuff like change their diapers and read books. So boring, it's scary!
(Source: yeeeah.com)
MOVES THAT LOOK LAME PAST 30
Going the backpacker/hostel/couch-surf route every vacation.
Dressing like a sexy cat, sexy devil, sexy cheerleader, or sexy hooker for Halloween.
Hitting last call and making out with a new guy each weekend.
Screaming at your mom on the phone where people can hear.
Habitually skimping on your share when the check comes.
Ceasing communication with friends the minute you meet a guy.
Buying drinks with sexy names that aren't clever, just plain dirty.
Prefacing every bite of junk food with "Omigod, I'm soooo bad!!!"

JILTED MAN GOES ON DRIVING RAMPAGE
In Australia, a man claims he drove drunk at more than twice the speed limit along a busy street of nightclubs because he had just seen his girlfriend and best buddy making out.
Twenty-six-year-old Matt Matthews told police he had just caught his girlfriend kissing his best friend when he was pulled over for speeding and driving erratically through city streets.
He said he was driving drunk because he had to get out of the nightclub where all three had been partying.
According to the police report, Matt was distraught after getting pulled over.
"I've spent my entire week's wages on the both of them -- and that's how they pay you back. I'm sorry mate, I just lost it," Matthews told police. "They are the last people I thought would ever let me down. God, he's like a brother."
When police asked how much he had drunk, Matthews simply replied: "Lots."
The judge said it was lucky nobody was hurt because there were lots of people walking around and ended up fining Matthews $1,000 -- and suspending his driver's license for six months.

 

So much for conventional wisdom. Couples who bicker and argue are likely to live longer than couples who don't.
Researchers at the University of Michigan studied around 200 couples over 17 years and found that those who suppressed their emotions were twice as likely to die as those where at least one partner expressed their anger.
They say when couples get together, one of their main jobs is reconciliation about conflict. The trends were consistent even when taking into account other lifestyle factors such as smoking and weight. (Maiman)
# # #
Good Idea Department:
Stop selling candy that looks like a street drug! Candy giant Hershey said yesterday that it's halting production of its "Ice Breakers Pacs" after Philadelphia police first complained several months ago that they looked like heat-sealed bags used to sell powered narcotics.
Ice Breakers Pacs first hit store shelves late last year and are nickel-sized dissolvable pouches with a powdered sweetener inside. They come in blue or orange, with the Ice Breakers logo. (Pacelli)
# # #

The Airlines:
The next time you fly Southwest, you may be allowed to check your email and surf the Internet. The airline will begin offering the service on four aircrafts beginning this summer, and if the test run goes well, the program will be expanded.
According to Computer World, American Airlines has already finished installing an Internet broadband connection on one of its jets. It will test the technology on all 15 of its Boeing 767-200 aircraft throughout the year.
Before Southwest or American can go any further, though, they need certfication from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). (Page)
# # #
The Internet:
News Corporation boss RUPERT MURDOCH announced yesterday that he's making part --but not all-- of the Wall Street Journal's online content free. Murdoch made the announcement at the World Economic Forum annual meeting in Davos, Switzerland.
He said that raw financial information that's posted on other Web sites will be free at wsj.com, but the Journal's specialized material will still cost about $99-dollars-a-year.
Media and financial pundits were eagerly waiting for Murdoch's decision because the Journal's web site is one of the few online subsription sites that actually turns a profit. (Pacelli)
# # #

Heath Ledger Update:
Turns out that private masseuse who found HEATH LEDGER's corpse does not have a license to practice in New York. State officials confirmed the fact yesterday to the NY Daily News, and said DIANE WOLOSHIN could face a potential felony charge. Here's why: anyone applying for a license to be a masseuse in New York must show documentation that they have received CPR training, which might have saved Ledger's life.
Meanwhile, even though MARY-KATE OLSEN did not own the apartment that Ledger was found in, she did get a call from the masseuse, because Ledger was a good friend of Mary Kate.
In fact, the masseuse called the actress even before dialing 911 for help. Cops say Mary Kate said: "I'm sending my private security there." Then, moments later, after finding Ledger's body cold to the touch, she called back, saying "I think he may be dead. I'm calling 911!" Detectives say that at no time did Mary Kate advise the masseuse to call 911, but they believe Ledger was already dead.
# # #
AMY WINEHOUSE has (finally) admitted she has a substance abuse problem and checked into a rehab facility. Details in Music, below.
# # #
Diddy changes name: It's happened again. Rap impressario and fashion mogul P DIDDY has changed his name again. The London Sun tabloid reports he now wants to be known as SEAN-JEAN. It may have something to do with the fact that his real name is SEAN JEAN COMBS. Or it may have a little to do with the fact that his new fragrance will be called Sean Jean. "It's nothing unusual where I come from," he said. "Right now I want to be Sean John because that's where I am."
His previous names included Puff, Puffy, Puff Daddy and Diddy.
# # #
OK! magazine says TONY ROMO and JESSICA SIMPSON have split up, with the Dallas Cowboys QB reportedly doing the dumping. Jess was blamed for costing Romo and the Cowboys a Super Bowl berth, and a "pal" of Tony's claims "Tony is now starting to blame her himself. Before dating Jessica, he was Texas' golden boy. Now he's become a joke."
The final breaking point allegedly came when Tony told Jess he wouldn't move to LA --and she told him there was no way she could leave Hollywood.
# # #
US Weekly magazine claims that JAMIE LYNN SPEARS will give her baby to her mom to raise so she can concentrate on her career.
Quotable: Who better to raise a baby than the woman who brought up Britney and Jamie Lynn Spears? (Stevens and Grdnic's "Daily Comedy Exclusive" --but what we were all thinking)
# # #
ADAM SANDLER is the latest to stand up for his buddy, TOM CRUISE. The comic tells People magazine that to see anyone's private life invaded and mocked is "sickening," and says his friend is a great dad, husband and friend. Other stars who came to the Scientologist's defense in this week's issue are BRUCE WILLIS, DEMI MOORE, JIM CARREY, and BEN STILLER. (Lee)
# # #
The National Enquirer reports that JOEY LAWRENCE is the biggest diva on the "Dancing with the Stars" tour. The magazine reports that he demands a private tour bus, tanning bed, and even an assistant in charge of dirty diapers for his baby! CHERYL BURKE is said to be the most cooperative. (Lee)
# # #
Sources tell the Fox News' Pop Tarts column that JOSH HARTNETT has moved on from RIHANNA and was seen getting cozy with KIRSTEN DUNST at a night club. (Lee)
# # #
GEORGE CLOONEY is slowly saying good-bye to his bachelorhood. Star magazine reports that the handsome A-lister has asked SARAH LARSEN to move in with him because the two are constantly together. Word is she's easygoing, loving and has a great sense of humor. (Lee)
# # #
Sources close to GWYNETH PALTROW tell the Chicago Sun-Times that she was so freaked out when her husband, CHRIS MARTIN, accosted photographers after she was released from the hospital that she's vowed not to return to the United States unless it's for work. Rumor has it she thinks the paparazzi aren't as invasive in England, and didn't need to face the pressure when she was feeling so fragile. (Lee)
# # #
HARLOW WINTER KATE MADDEN has turned her rock-star daddy, JOEL MADDEN, into a sloppy, emotional mess! He blogged on the website of his clothing company, DCMA Collective, that him and NICOLE RICHIE are the two "luckiest people alive" and claims he didn't know what love was before her birth. (Lee)
# # #
TED CASABLANCA of E! Online.com reports that TRACEY EDMONDS is recovering nicely from her split with EDDIE MURPHY. Instead of honeymooning with her new husband, she's spent the week at the Sundance Film Festival and enjoyed a 50 CENT concert. (Lee)
# # #
JENNIE GARTH has a great body thanks to her appearance on "Dancing with the Stars," but tells TED CASABLANCA of E! Online.com that when she wants to cheat on her diet she pops a Coca Cola! (Lee)
# # #
Want to know the diet secrets of PARIS and NICKY HILTON? An insider at the Sundance Film Festival tells Fox News that the sisters have been downing chicken noodle soup, grilled cheese sandwiches and French fries every day since arriving in Park City, Utah. (Lee)
# # #
LINDSAY LOHAN is going to AA but could care less. According to Star magazine, the actress is putting in her time at the meetings but isn't participating at all. An eyewitness tells the tabloid that Linds texted the whole time and looked really uninterested in being there.
# # #
CHRISTINA AGUILERA didn't want to have a C-section when she gave birth to son MAX. According to Star magazine, the singer showed up at the hospital in full makeup including trademark red lipstick and pushed for 24 hours until the doctors told her that she had to have a C-section.
# # #
PAMELA ANDERSON's world is falling apart. Sources tell Star magazine that the blonde bombshell is walking around Malibu looking like a zombie. She's upset that her marriage to RICK SALOMON is falling apart, she's not getting any work and she's approaching middle age.
# # #
KEVIN FEDERLINE is ready to tell-all about his marriage to BRITNEY SPEARS. According to Star magazine, Brit's ex could get up to $10 million dollars for spilling the beans on her mental state, dysfunctional family, wild sex life , addictions and violent outbursts. He also might dish the dirt on Brit's sister, JAMIE LYNN, "manager" SAM LUFTI, and even Brit's cousin, ALLI SIMS.
# # #
DAVID SPADE doesn't want anything to do with the Playboy playmate that's allegedly having his child. According to Star magazine, JILLIAN GRACE and David talked about having a baby together and now she claims he apparently wants nothing to do with the pregnancy. (Myers)
# # #

 

Job Rage:
Disgruntled Employee of the Week Award goes to a Florida woman who erased some important computer files because she thought she was being fired.
According to WJXT-TV in Jacksonville, 41-year-old MARIE COOLEY deleted seven years of computer files at a local architectural company. Company officials think she read a classified ad in the paper and she thought the ad was targeting her job. In fact, the ad was for another position.
The deleted files --worth $2.5 million-- were recovered on a back-up system.
# # #
Looking for Love in all the Right Places:
This Valentine's Day, lots of us will try proving how deep our love goes for that special someone. But we'll probably come off as hacks compared to LIU GUOJIANG. This Chinese guy hand carved 6-thousand steps into the side of a mountain for his wife, XU CHAOQING, just so he could make her life easier. Liu started his mountainside project 50-years ago, and this week he passed away at age 70.
Son of the love-birds, LIU MINGSHENG, says his parents were the walking definition of love. "My parents have lived in seclusion for more than 50 years because of their love for each other. They had no electricity and my father made kerosene lamps to lighten our lives. My mother seldom goes down the mountain, but my father cut the six-thousand plus stairs for her convenience ...It's a ladder of love."
# # #
Trailer Park update:
Hard to imagine anything going wrong on this one but some women in Springfield, MO, are regretting their decision last week to get a tattoo from a door-to-door tattoo salesman. At least one person had to be hospitalized and the others face serious health risks.
The Kansas City Star says a man knocked on doors last Friday holding a tattoo gun and offering his services. One woman described the tool as homemade, but still agreed to pay for a tattoo. So did two other women in her apartment complex.
The next day, another woman passed out and had to be hospitalized. All the women have an infection in the tattoo area and have been told to get tested for HIV and hepatitis. Happy New Year.
FYI: It's illegal in Missouri to give a tattoo without a license

 

Billionaire Richard Branson, who is the founder of Virgin Airlines, introduced a model of a spaceship he hopes will take tourists into space -- as soon as next year.
Branson is calling his new space tourism company Virgin Galactic and expects to charge people $200,000 for short trips into space.
His SpaceShipTwo tourist rocket will start test flights later this year.
"We really do want to have a situation where hundreds of thousands of people who want to experience space travel are able to do so," said Branson. "$200,000 is still too expensive for the majority of people, but within five years of launching, I would hope the price would come down fairly dramatically."

Bucks for a buck!
Starbucks announced it will be testing $1 cups of coffee and free refills.
The coffee chain is experimenting with selling the $1 "short" brew in its hometown of Seattle.
Though the company wouldn't elaborate on its plans, the $1 coffee is even cheap compared to McDonald's or Dunkin' Donuts -- whose regular coffees start in the low $1-plus range. So, the question is, will a dollar brew get you in the door?

Wall Street rallies late Wednesday.
The Dow Jones industrials, down more than 323 points in earlier trading, ended the day with an advance of just under 300 points, according to preliminary calculations.
"You might say this is a belated reaction to what the Fed did this week, compounded by hopes for the Fed to do more next week," said Peter Cardillo, chief market economist at Avalon Partners.
The Dow Jones industrial average rose 298.98, or 2.50 percent, to 12,270.17.

Millions of young people abusing cough medicine.
According to the government, about 3.1 million people between the ages of 12-25 have used cough and cold medicines to get high.
The 2006 survey found that more than 5 percent of teenagers and young adults had misused cough and cold medicines.
The number of young people who abused over-the-counter cold medicines is comparable to use of LSD and much greater than that for methamphetamine among the age group, according to the federal Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.
When taken in large amounts DXM, a cough suppressant, can cause disorientation, blurred vision, slurred speech and vomiting. DXM is in more than 140 over-the-counter cough and cold medications.

Surgery for diabetes?
A new study shows the strongest evidence yet that an obesity surgery can cure diabetes.
According to Australian researchers, patients who had stomach reducing surgery were five times more likely to see their diabetes disappear than patients who received standard diabetes care. (Over the course of two years.)
Most of the surgery patients were able to stop taking diabetes drugs and achieve normal blood tests.
"We have traditionally considered diabetes to be a chronic, progressive disease," said Cummings of the University of Washington in Seattle. "But these operations really do represent a realistic hope for curing most patients."

BEER PRICES ARE RISING
There's bad economic news everywhere you look. The dollar is sinking. The threat of a recession looms large. And, the stock market continues to be unpredictable.
Making matters worse is the fact that it's getting more and more expensive to drown our sorrows in beer because the price of beer continues to rise.
Key ingredients of beer have increased in price over the past couple years...
Brewers are worried about a worldwide shortage of hops -- a plant used in brewing that adds bitterness, aroma and flavor to the final product.
The cost of wheat and barley, also used to make beer, are also at near-record highs.
And, fuel, aluminum and glass prices have been rising too.
Suggestions:
Beer
Cigarettes
Cable TV
Fast food
Jim Hilker, an agricultural economics professor at Michigan State University, said hops and wheat prices are increasing because the crops aren't as attractive to farmers as they once were.
Jim places most of the blame for wheat and hops price increases on booming ethanol production, but said factors like volatile weather and a bustling world economy - which requires growing more food - have also contributed to the shortages.
The big national breweries like Anheuser-Busch and Miller have not been as affected by higher costs because they tend to brew their beers using fewer hops than smaller breweries. They also have long-term contracts with set prices for their ingredients.

Experts say popular baby names from the past, like Matthew and Olivia, are being replaced by by "weird" names at an alarming rate.
Diana Goodman, who runs the "Baby's Got a Bad, Bad Name" Web site, said "weird" names are spreading.
"Weird beats normal by at least 2-to-1, increasing rapidly each year," she said. "In 2001, weird and normal were almost even. Since then, weird names have taken over."
Here are some "weird" names that have recently spiked in popularity:
Aisleigh
Brielle
Laken
Shyler
Brenner
Diana Goodman's website points out some names that are even more bizarre:
Aiken (As in aches and pains?)
Chance
Maxigan
Attica -- (Yes... It's a prison in New York.)
Orion

PSYCHOLOGIST SAYS BOYS AND GIRLS SHOULD ATTEND DIFFERENT SCHOOLS

According to psychologist Dr. Leonard Sax, boys and girls should attend different schools.
He's alarmed that boys and girls are taught in the same way and in the same classrooms -- and says it's no wonder that boys are unmotivated and uninterested in the subjects being taught.
Sax says boys and girls should be educated in separate classes because their brains are hard-wired to learn in different ways.
For the past decade parents and teachers have been getting more and more worried about boys, who are now often falling behind girls at every level -- and who are getting less and less motivated to achieve.
Dr. Sax says too many schools are creating an environment that is actually "toxic" to boys, turning them off learning and leaving them quite unprepared for adult life. In his book Boys Adrift, Dr. Sax argues that this gender gap is the result of different learning styles of boys and girls, and that most classrooms play to the strengths of girls.
"In the co-educational classroom so many of the choices we make are to the advantage of girls, but disadvantage boys," he said. "The fact that girls are doing well is not the problem. The problem is, why can't their brothers do as well?"
Boys vs. Girls...
There is not much difference in how girls and boys think, but there are differences in how they see and hear.
Boys do not hear as well as girls. So a female teacher with a soft voice may believe that a boy who is not paying attention is goofing off -- when actually he cannot hear her properly.
Boys' eyes respond better to movement and direction, while girls' eyes are more affected by color and texture.
Most girls can sit still from a young age, but most boys need to be active to discover their own pace.
Because of these differences, Dr. Sax wants to put boys and girls in their own classrooms.
"Let boys tap the table. Let them jump up from their seat when asked to spell a word. It won't disturb the boy next to them. Girls are bothered by extraneous noise levels 10 to 40 times lower than the levels that bother men. Girls are aware of what is going on around them. Boys are oblivious," Dr. Sax says.

Frozen Pipe ... House In Flames
Lima, Ohio ... A man using a propane torch to thaw a frozen water pipe wound up setting fire to his house.
According to fire officials John Miller Sr. was working with the propane torch in a crawl space when a wall caught on fire, filling the house with smoke. Miller, who managed to flee the home before firefighters arrived, said the flame of the propane torch had been on the water pipe for only a few minutes.
"I've done it a hundred times and never had a problem," Miller said.
Reportedly, damage to the house was several thousand dollars.
One Legged Man Charged With Crutch Assault
East Price Hill, Ohio ... A one-legged man is facing a felony assault charge after allegedly attacking a female relative with his crutch.
Charles Kraft, 43, could face up to 10 years in prison if convicted of hitting Jennifer Hutching, 21, with his crutch during an argument over a card game, The Cincinnati Enquirer reported.
A Horse Is A Horse ...
Akron, Michigan ... Kristen DeGroat wanted to sell her horse to another animal lover, so she paid for a classified ad in two newspapers. Unfortunately, her ad wound up listed under "Good Things to Eat."
DeGroat says about a third of the 60 or so calls she received were from people interested in buying horse meat. She also received dozens of calls from unhappy animal lovers.
DeGroat's ad, offering the horse for $200 or the best offer, was intended to run Sunday and Monday under the classified ad heading for horses and stables in The Saginaw News and The Bay City Times.
But a mistake landed the ad under the food heading in the classified sections of both newspapers -- which have a jointly run classified ad department.
Both papers corrected the error, and DeGroat, 25, eventually sold her 3-year-old mare, Foxy, to a man who wanted a live horse for his grandkids

MICHELLE WILLIAMS' FATHER MAKES A STATEMENT ABOUT HEATH
Michelle Wiliams's father, Larry Williams, has spoken out about the death of Heath Ledger ...
"I think Tennyson got it right in the poem when he described someone as having died at a young age but burning the candles at both ends, and oh what a beautiful flame he made. That was Heath -- what a beautiful flame he made and a great talent. My heart goes out to everyone in his family and my family. The saddest thing is his daughter whom he just loved dearly."
MAKE IT EASY AND JUST GIVE ME MY BABIES, Y'ALL
So BOTH Britney and Kevin requested an emergency hearing yesterday (Wednesday) in L.A., and guess what? Kevin showed, but Britney didn't quite make it there -- yet again! "Very unusual events today," court public information officer Allan Parachini told PageSix.com. "Britney was escorted into the courthouse by several sheriff's deputies. She made it through the weapons screening area, then turned toward a deputy and said, 'I don't want to go up there.' And she left." An insider told Pagesix.com, that Commissioner Scott Gordon is "exasperated over the situation."
Kevin was asked a few questions by the judge, but when asked about Britney's behavior, Kevin shifted on his feet and said, "The event speaks for itself." Exactly. Two more hearings are scheduled in February.
SHOCKER!
The wife of Adnan Ghalib, Britney's paparazzo "boyfriend," has filed for a legal separation after four years of marriage. Azlynn Elizabeth Berry cites "irreconcilable differences" (meaning: Britney took my man) as the reason for the split and is asking for spousal support and attorney's fees, according to papers filed on January 18.
However, Adnan's employer said they had been separated for more than a year, and Adnan himself told TMZ, "This is old."
Meanwhile, Adnan told The Insider, "This relationship is far from over," concerning him and Britney and when asked if he would marry Britney if she proposed, he replied, "Would anybody say no? Oh, and those pregnancy tests the two were spotted buying on January 14? "I think she was hoping she was pregnant with my child," Adnan said of the purchase.
BUSTA BUSTED
Did you hear about Busta Rhymes getting three years probation and ten days of community service for assaulting his former driver and a fan?
Busta was also fined $1,250, plus court costs, for driving while intoxicated and with a suspended license. He pleaded guilty to the charges, which stemmed from four separate incidents. Oh, and he also has to enroll in a DUI program.

SIGNS OF CHEATING
You're suspicious, but not sure he's fooling around on you. But ever stop to think WHY you're suspicious? That's your gut trying to tell you something. Always listen to your gut. It's rarely ever wrong.
Here are the signs your spouse is cheating
(from MSN.com)...
1. It's taking too long to accomplish simple tasks. He'll say he's going to work out or going to the store, and it takes, like, two and a half hours.
2. He showers immediately after getting home.
3. Cell phone bills also can provide plenty of evidence of an affair. If you take a look at his cell phone bill, you may see a "strange number all over it.
4. Out-of-town trips can be a sign. He'll go on "hunting trips" so much more often than he used to.

WHY?
There's just no explaining some of the things celebrities do -- but these experts took a stab at it...
Q: Why are stars always skinnier after a breakup? "It's the revenge body. Some feel they have to get slimmer than before." --Gunner Peterson, celeb trainer
Q: Why don't drunk stars just use drivers? "Alcohol can create a sense of invincibility. Celebrities especially don't want anyone to think they might not be able to do something." --Dr. Drew, addiction specialist
Q: Why do starlets skip underwear? "Panty-line fear is legitimate, but this is meant to provoke a reaction. You don't just forget panties." --Kendall Farr, author of The Pocket Stylist

FIT GUYS LIVE THE LONGEST
It is in most guys' best interest to live a long life.
Whereas women lose their looks, and therefore become more unattractive, as they get older, guys can ride a wave of mojo into their golden years because they can -- and usually do -- continue to make more money. And, as we all know, money is the ultimate aphrodisiac.
So, what does it take for guys to live a long life?
More and more studies are showing that it has little to do with weight or history of heart disease. Instead, it's simply the fittest men who tend to live the longest.
The researchers have one piece of advice for guys who want to live long -- Start and maintain a physically active lifestyle consisting of moderate-intensity activities. This includes brisk walking or similar activities.

It's Just a J-O-B:
"This job is killing me!" Who hasn't said that? Well, now a new medical study is saying it.
The study of British civil servants suggests on the job stress raises the risk of heart disease by disrupting the body's internal systems. An epidemiologist at London's University College says it also raises the issue of whether stress-induced biological changes play a more direct role on the body than previously thought.

Scotland Yard has started an investigation into a video that shows singer AMY WINEHOUSE smoking crack.
The London Sun released grainy footage showing Winehouse sucking on a crack pipe. It was reportedly shot in the early morning hours before she attended a court hearing for her jailed husband. (Maiman)
# # #
TED CASABLANCA of E! Online.com claims that EVA LONGORIA is becoming a diva. The gossip guru reports the 'Desperate Housewife' brought along an entourage which included her fluffy white dog and hairdresser, KEN PAVES, to shoot an Italian chocolate commercial. To make matters worse, word is she was also a little snippy with the director. (Lee)
# # #
Is GEORGE CLOONEY moonlighting as a Union mediator? RUSH and MOLLOY of the NY Daily News report that the actor was noticeably absent from doing interviews on the day that his film, "Michael Clayton," was nominated for numerous Academy Awards. His rep says he's not making any statements about his whereabouts, but rumor has it he was immersed in a top-secret meeting to hammer out a deal to put an end to the writer's strike. (Lee)
# # #
WILL SMITH can manage stardom, marriage and children, but can't handle his liquor! Ireland Online reports that EVA MENDES, his co-star in "Hitch," spilled the news that Will's a lightweight and gets buzz after three sips of a drink. And, despite his macho reputation, he enjoys "girly" beverages like pina coladas and daiquiris. (Lee)
# # #
SALMA HAYEK is trying to milk her way back to her old body. Sources tell Star magazine that since having her daughter, VALENTINA, she's been breastfeeding constantly to drop the pounds after friends suggested it was a great way to lose baby weight. Word is she's taking it a little far by constantly being hooked up to an industrial-size pump and freezing "endless amounts" of breast milk. (Lee)
# # #
The National Enquirer claims that OPRAH WINFREY is fed up with her protégé, Dr. PHIL. Insiders say the queen of daytime is "furious" since he went public about trying to help the SPEARS family in the wake of BRITNEY's hospitalization and thinks the situation is out of control. Word is the big O knows she's made mistakes, but has always had the sensibility to admit them, apologize and move on. (Lee)
# # #
PAMELA ANDERSON uses a lot of caution to avoid passing on her medical condition to anyone else. The NY Post's Page Six gossip column claims she turned down the chance to wear earrings that cost $100,000 while at a fundraiser due to having Hepatitis C. (Lee)
# # #
OK! magazine reports that TONY ROMO is getting tired of JESSICA SIMPSON's diva demeanor and her father, JOE, being a constant companion. Insiders tell the mag that the quarterback tried to break up with her on January 17th and hoped they could stay friends, but she refused to let it end. In other news, CINDY ADAMS of the NY Post claims Jessica is "tired of boys" but loves having "a man." (Lee)
# # #
Like many young stars in the media today, NICOLAS CAGE admits he battled drug abuse while he was in his 20's. He tells Ireland Online that he wound up in a spiral of depression after experimenting, but continued using and drinking until he woke up and realized this life just didn't work. (Lee)
# # #
CINDY ADAMS of the NY Post reports that SIDNEY POITIER has started doing public speaking engagements. Word is the actor reveals the story of his rise to fame, where he started out as a dishwasher who couldn't read a newspaper. Attendees who saw the 81-year-old inspirational speaker in Naples, Florida called his talk "spectacular." (Lee)
# # #
KATHLEEN TURNER holds no punches in her new autobiography, "Send Yourself Roses."
The NY Post's Page Six gossip column claims the legendary actress accuses NICOLAS CAGE of being a troublemaker who got two DUI's and stole a dog while on the set of "Peggy Sue Got Married."
BURT REYNOLDS allegedly put her through the wringer while filming "Switching Channels" by telling her the sound of her name made him want to vomit; while she claims WILLIAM HURT was a womanizer, drinker and druggie while making "Body Heat."
Nic shot back that he's never been arrested and thinks she should do some fact-checking, for the record he recalls her being a "great lady" and "wonderful actress." (Lee)
# # #
MISCHA BARTON is desperate to take her fame and wealth to the next level. CINDY ADAMS of the NY Post reports the hard-partying actress wants to produce her own movies like DREW BARRYMORE, JENNIFER ANISTON, and REESE WITHERSPOON so she can find her own parts. (Lee)
# # #
VALERIE BERTINELLI is cheating on Jenny Craig. According to Star magazine, the diet spokeswoman indulged in all her favorite treats over the holidays and was even spotted eating See's Chocolates while shopping at the mall.
# # #
CASEY AFFLECK is sensitive about his height. Star magazine reports that BEN's brother always wanted to be a baseball player until he realized that he was too short. He tells everyone he's six feet tall but he's more like 5' 7".
# # #
SARAH JESSICA PARKER's son has gotten his first movie role. According to Star magazine, little JAMES WILKE has a role as an extra in Central Park in his mom's "Sex and the City" movie.
# # #
Did JOE JONAS of the JONAS BROTHERS get plastic surgery? According to Star magazine, Joe was caught leaving a surgeon's office with big sunglasses on and his hair hiding his face.
# # #
KATHERINE HEIGL is trying to quit smoking. Star magazine reports that the "Grey's Anatomy" star has to pay her husband JOSH KELLEY $20 bucks everytime she smokes in front of him. (Myers)
# # #

Small town, small people:
PETE PRITCHARD got a shock when he dialed the number listed in the phone book for Maryland Gov MARTIN O'MALLEY and got a phone sex hotline.
A woman with a sultry voice answered the phone. "Mmmm, hi sexy! Barely legal babes! They're waiting for you. We'll do anything you want."
Pete, both rocket scientist and solid citizen that he was, hung up, realizing he most definitely hadn't reached the governor's office in Annapolis.
As the Washington Post explains, thanks to a misprint in the local phone book for Cecil County, MD, Pritchard called a phone sex line that charges $1.99 a minute.
# # #
Hopefully, would-be suicide bombers didn't notice that the TSA failed to spot a cat in the luggage of SETH and KELLY LEVY. The South Florida Sun Sentinel reports that the couple's 10-month old cat, GRACIE MAE, sneaked into their suitcase as they were packing for a trip to Dallas. After flying there, and back home to Florida, Kelly noticed their cat was nowhere to be found. She and Seth tore their home apart looking for Gracie Mae; they even put "lost cat" signs around the neighborhood.
But then they got a call. The guy on the other end of the phone said "Hi, you're not going to believe this, but I am calling from Fort Worth, Texas, and I accidentally picked up your husband's luggage. And when I opened the luggage, a cat jumped out." The stranger graciously paid $80-dollars to have the kitten flown back home properly, and Kelly can't stop smiling. "Thanks to the wonderful good Samaritan who took care of my cat and even bought her a pet taxi for the flight home." The guy never left his name, and won't answer any phone calls, so Seth and Kelly may never know who it was that kept their cat alive and well. (Couchman)
# # #

10 Best movie weapons of all time:
Gizmodo readers voted on a list of 50 items and narrowed it down to the following:
10. Bowler Hat (James Bond "Goldfinger")
9. The Death Star (Star Wars")
8. Machine Gun ("Scarface")
7. Bow and Arrow ("Robin Hood")
6. Golden Gun (James Bond, "Man with the Golden Gun")
5. Chainsaw ("Texas Chainsaw Massacre")
4. Samurai Sword ("Kill Bill")
3. Bullwhip ("Indiana Jones")
2. .44 Magnum ("Dirty Harry")
1. Lightsaber ("Star Wars")
# # #

 

 

IT'S BREAK-UP SEASON

According to a recent survey, there are more break-ups in January than at any other time of year. Relationship experts estimate that as many as nine million people consider breaking up with their significant other after New Year's.
From Thanksgiving to Christmas to New Year's, couples spend a lot of time together -- and get on each other's nerves. On top of that, January is the time of the year that people give their lives a review. Since it's an opportunity to make a fresh start, it's an opportunity to get rid of mates that just aren't clicking.
Giving Up Too Soon...?
Some people complain about the younger generation and how quickly they give up on marriages and other relationships. The criticism is that they don't work hard enough at it to keep it going.
Some relationship experts don't think the problem has anything to do with how quickly people give up, but instead how quickly people get into marriages and deep relationships in the first place.
"Relationships today are often built on shallow ground and we live in a world of immediacy -- we want everything now. Because of this, many of us get into relationships too quickly without spending time getting to know the other person," said one counselor. "A successful relationship is not about shared tastes but shared values, and it can take time to discover whether you share this with another person."
Working It Out...
If you're in a troubled relationship and you're hoping to salvage things, here are a few simple tips when having "The Big Talk:"
1. No Interruptions -- Set aside time to talk when you will not be interrupted.
2. Take Turns -- Both of you will have things on your mind, so take turns. Some counselors suggest even setting a timer for five minutes with one speaking while the other listens, then reversing the process.
3. Explain, Don't Blame -- Tell your partner how you felt, feel or will be feeling about something without blaming them. This can be tricky but it is a very useful way of owning your feelings.
4. Soothing Environment -- Plan to go together somewhere which provides an environment you both find relaxing such as a walk in the park or a drink at a pub.
5. Lower Your Expectations -- Don't be surprised if there isn't an immediate improvement. Fixing relationships takes time.

LATEST FITNESS CRAZE: HULA HOOPING

Women who are tired of spin classes and treadmills now have a fitness alternative -- hula hoping classes.
The hula hoop is back. Hooping classes are popping up at gyms and community centers around the country.
"I hate the thought of going to the gym, but pick up a hoop and it can be playtime," said Noelle Powers, who is teaching a six-week hula hoop course. "It's a great way to burn calories and strengthen muscles, especially core muscles, and it can be very meditative."
In Case You Were Wondering ... Singer Beyonce reportedly uses a hula hoop to maintain her "bootylicious" figure.
Hoops for adults are wider and heavier than those for kids, which makes them easier to spin around a larger waist. And fans usually just call them "hoops" -- since they don't really have anything to do with the traditional Hawaiian hula dance.
Advanced dancers pull off elaborate tricks -- such as twirling a hoop on their feet while standing on their heads. "People didn't even imagine that you could do things like this with a hula hoop," said Rayna McInturf, founder of Hoopnotica, a California-based hooping school.

WEIRD AROUND THE WORLD

Fat Bank Account Better Than Skinny Body
New York, New York ... An online poll of nearly 7000 women done by Woman's Day magazine and AOL Body found that three out of four women would rather have money than a great body.
One question in the poll asked women if they would rather have Jennifer Aniston's bikini body or $1 million.
"I'd rather have the money," said 78 percent of the respondents, while the other 22 percent said they'd like to "look like Jennifer."
Other results ... 57 percent said they considered themselves overweight, 30 percent admitted feeling "uncomfortable and ashamed" about their bodies, and 37 percent said their biggest wish was "to be thinner."
But having millions of dollars surpasses all of those feeling, according to the new issue of Women's Day -- on newsstands today.
Death Before Ticket?
London, England ... British police say a motorist tried to get out of a traffic ticket by posing as a friend and telling authorities that he was dead.
Shafkat Munir presented police with a phony death certificate because he was afraid of losing his license after being caught speeding three times in the space of a few weeks, The Daily Mail reported.
Munir claimed to be a friend when he contacted police to tell them there was no way he could have been behind the wheel when the speed-camera took a picture of his car.
However, police questioned the alleged "friend" and he eventually came clean.
Now Munir, who would have faced a $350 fine and points on his license for the speeding violations, has been sentenced to 12 months in jail and barred from driving for 18 months.
Underwear Thief Gets Jail Time
Colfax, Washington ... A 24-year-old man is facing a month and a half in jail after admitting he stole 93 pounds of women's underwear.
Garth Flaherty was charged with first-degree theft and burglary for stealing 1,613 pairs of women's underwear and bras from apartment laundry rooms.
Under an agreement with prosecutors, he pleaded guilty and was sentenced in Whitman County Superior Court to 45 days in jail. He may serve 30 days of his term in community service, court officials said.

SO SAD
There are certain things we don't see coming -- and Heath Ledger's death is one of them. As we all know, he was found dead yesterday by his housekeeper at a downtown Manhattan residence, and authorities are calling it a possible drug-related death. He was 28.
Law enforcement officials have confirmed to TMZ that various pills were found at the scene but they are awaiting the Medical Examiner to assess the situation before releasing more information. There were no signs of trauma and police think the death was accidental but an autopsy has been scheduled to take place today (Wednesday) to find out the actual cause of death.
Nicole Kidman released a statement to Extra with her condolences ... "What a tragedy. My heart goes out to his family." (Heath dated Nicole Kidman's good friend Naomi Watts on-and-off for two years.)
And Entourage's Adrian Grenier said, "That is so tragic. He led a great life."
Our hearts go out to his family at this difficult time.
EERIE ...
Heath Ledger recently gave an interview to a FOX-TV affiliate in Cleveland where he said: "I feel good about dying because I feel alive through her." (He was talking about his daughter Matilda with Michelle Williams.)
HIS FAMILY SAYS IT WAS AN ACCIDENT
TMZ has heard from a rep from Heath's family. The cops told the family Heath's death was an accident, and there was no evidence that pointed to suicide. Just like Anna Nicole's Smith son, Daniel. He had a deadly concoction of pills ant it was an accident... eenie meenie miney moe... sometimes it's a dangerous crapshoot.
Heath's family is upset that the media is saying he may have taken his own life and said he was not that kind of person.
And Perezhilton.com reports that two bottles of sleeping "aids" were found -- one prescription bottle and one over-the-counter, which means an accidental overdose would be more likely because "experts" say that it is harder to overdose on just prescription sleeping pills.
HEATH'S DAD SPEAKS
Heath Ledger's father, Kim Ledger, with his family by his side, released a statement on Australian television, TMZ reports.
"We, Heath's family, confirm, the very tragic, untimely and accidental passing of our dearly loved son, brother and doting father of Matilda. He was found peacefully asleep in his New York apartment by his housekeeper at 3:30 p.m. U.S. time.
...Heath has touched so many people on so many different levels during his short life but few had the pleasure of truly knowing him. He was a down to earth, generous, kind-hearted, life-loving and selfless individual who was extremely inspirational to many. Please now respect our families need to grieve and come to terms with our loss privately."
CONDOLENCES
Usher's father's father's funeral is tomorrow (Wednesday). Usher Raymond III died Friday at an Atlanta hospital. He was 52. The cause of death is not known.
MEANWHILE...
Amy Winehouse continues to temp fate -- did you hear she was filmed smoking crack at a recent party at her home in East London? The Sun has video footage, shot in the early morning hours last Friday, of Amy snorting what is believed to be powdered ecstasy and cocaine -- and then later taking a hit on a glass pipe allegedly containing crack. She also admits to having taken "about six valium" to "bring myself down".
Oh, she'll bring herself down all right.
Amy's reps and British authorities are keeping tight-lipped on the situation. But Universal Records released this statement saying: "We are deeply disappointed and upset by these latest revelations and are doing everything we can to offer Amy our full support in dealing with her problems."
OH YEAH -- BRITNEY...
Britney and her shenanigans seem trivial in the wake of such tragic news ... But, the show inevitably goes on... It seems Britney's "boyfriend," Adnan Ghalib, is finally speaking publicly about his "relationship" with Britney. In an interview with Entertainment Tonight that aired last night Adnan said ...
He was not paid for his interview with ET.
When asked how he and Britney became "friends" he said: "I think I believe it was December 20, when it was an aggressive chase and at a stoplight in Hollywood she got out of her car and got into mine and I think that's what made the difference." When asked if he was shocked, Adnan replied, "Beyond shocked!"
Of course -- it was his lucky day!
And Speaking Of Britney...
She's been accused again of working with the paparazzi to make sure she's always in the public eye. Paparazzo Alison Silva is quoted in the New York Post as saying: "Britney is in on it. She calls the paparazzi before she goes out. We know 15 minutes before she leaves the house. It's all staged." Anything's possible with Britney...
WHO HASN'T PARIS MADE OUT WITH?
Big deal -- so Paris Hilton was seen making out with Jared Leto this week at an L.A. club. A source told Page Six: "Paris and Jared are not dating seriously, but this is not the first time they have made out - there just weren't any cameras around before." But this won't be a new couple -- Paris has said in the past, "I don't want a boyfriend right now, I travel too much and don't have time for a relationship."
Or more accurately, she doesn't have it in her to stay faithful.
And Speaking Of Paris...
Paris will appear on The Late Show with David Letterman -- even though the last time she was on his show Dave teased her about her jail stint. TMZ reports she'll be a guest on the show on Friday, February 1. It'll be the sixth time she's been on Dave's show -- proving, for Paris, ANY publicity is good publicity.
STUPID IDEA
The National Enquirer is saying Jessica Simpson wants to do a duet with boyfriend Tony Romo. Um, Jessica -- he's a football player -- not a singer. A source told the Enquirer, "Jessica has been schooled in publicity tricks by her manager dad, Joe, and she knows that a duet with Tony will attract major attention." Way to think only of yourself, Jessica. Tony wouldn't get any flack for THAT! Ha!
THAT'S NOT WHY WE'RE CRITICIZING HIM
So we all saw that crazy Tom Cruise video last week -- and now John Travolta is coming to fellow Scientologist Tom Cruise's defense ...
"Tom has -- we all have -- the right to practice how we feel," he told People. "It finally becomes unfair."
Of course we have the right to practice what we feel. It's just that Tom wants US to feel what HE feels and preaches Scientology like a maniac.
SHE DOESN'T WANT TO KNOW -- HE DOES
Here's the first problem for pregnant Jessica Alba and Cash Warren -- he wants to know the gender of their baby, and she doesn't! It seems they were asked when they were at the Sundance Film Festival over the weekend if they were going to find out the sex of their child, Cash said, "Yes!" -- while Jessica simultaneously answered, "No."
Just Wondering... This must happen a lot to couples... What did you do when you were in this situation? What should Jessica and Cash do?
D-LIST IS BACK
Bravo has renewed Kathy Griffin show, My Life on the D-List for a fourth season. It'll premiere later this year. Hasn't she moved up to C-list yet?

DIVORCE PARTIES
Have you heard of those divorce parties women throw -- to "celebrate' getting a divorce? Seems a little sad, like a way to mask a recently divorced women's pain. It's as if you're trying too hard to "not care."
SORRY!
Married people apologize twice as often as those who are single, divorced or separated -- even if they feel they're not to blame, says a Zogby poll of 7,590 adults.

MEN DRINK TWICE AS MUCH AS WOMEN
According to a new study conducted in England, men drink twice as much alcohol as women.
By the Numbers...
Men drink an average of 19 drinks per week.
Women only have 9 drinks.
More Results ...
People from homes classed as managerial level or professional enjoy 15 drinks per week.
Men and women in households who work at jobs that they consider routine and manual have 12 drinks per week.

MARK VINCENT KAPLAN is divulging private details about what happened during BRITNEY SPEARS' deposition on Monday.
KEVIN FEDERLINE's legal eagle tells People magazine that the experience is not anything anyone would enjoy, and calls the details "very, very gut-wrenching." Despite Brit-Brit getting kudos for showing up, Mr. Kaplan maintains she was still 50 minutes late, and says there's a lot more to cover, since he's only asked "about two percent" of his questions.
Meanwhile, TMZ.com reports that Commissioner SCOTT GORDON, who's handling Britney' custody case, has repeatedly ordered Brit to undergo a psychological evaluation, but she has repeatedly refused to do it. The evaluation could be the key to Britney regaining visitation rights. Britney's lawyers are expected to show up today to ask the Commish to grant her "monitored visitation" in a "theraputic setting" --another way of saying she'll get to see the kids in a shrink's office. Maybe.
# # #
The Britney rumor of the day comes to us from her "friends" who tell the British tabloid News of the World that the pop wreck plans to fake her own death, move abroad, and come back as the "world's best mother." If all that fails, she still has PARIS HILTON on her side. The heiress told In Touch Weekly that she's spoken with her buddy, who she calls "very sweet," and has hope that everything will wind up OK. (Lee)
# # #
And, the London Daily Mail reports that FinalPixx, the paparazzi outfit that Britney's ex-boyfriend, ADNAN GHALIB, shoots pictures for, is now offering (surprise!) a bunch of private photos, text messages and even videos of the couple together enjoying some quality time together. Adnan himself has also stretched his 15 minutes over several nights by reportedly signing a lucrative deal with "Entertainment Tonight."
And it shouldn't surprise anybody that Adnan's wife, AZLYNN ELIZABETH BERRY, has filed for separation, since Adnan has been going out with Miss Thang. People magazine says the papers --filed in court Dec 18, five years to the day that they were married-- ask for spousal support and her attorney's fees. The couple has no children.
# # #
MILEY CYRUS may be one of the biggest teen stars on the planet, but is still a sweet girl. Vegas Confidential reports that she made a surprise visit to the Sunrise Hospital's children's cancer ward while in Las Vegas, where she spent and an hour-and-a-half posing for pictures, signing autographs, and visiting with the kids. (Lee)
# # #
With that TOM CRUISE Scientology video making the rounds, it was only a matter of time before somebody came along and made a parody of it. And that person would be JERRY O'CONNELL, who co-starred with Tom in the movie, "Jerry McGuire," playing his client, Frank Cushman. The video is on WILL FERRELL's website, funnyordie.com.
# # #
DENISE RICHARDS and CHARLIE SHEEN had one of the ugliest divorces in Hollywood history, and are still duking it out. Sources tell the TV show, "Extra," that Denise is looking to launch a reality show starring her and their two girls, SAM and LOLA, but Charlie put the smackdown on the idea because he thinks his ex is just exploiting their kids for her own vanity and greed. However, a report on TMZ.com says the judge gave Denise permission to do the show with the kids, as long as she complied with "certain restrictions." (Lee)
# # #
TED CASABLANCA of E! Online.com reports that JAKE GYLLENHAAL is looking to relocate to San Francisco's Noe (pronounced: No-ee) Valley. Word is the "Brokeback" actor is looking into a family-friendly property, allegedly to bring along girlfriend REESE WITHERSPOON and her kids. (Lee)
Editor's note: speaking of "Brokeback" actors --HEATH LEDGER dead at 28. Details in Data Dump, above.
# # #
The National Enquirer reports that BRENDAN FRASER, who split from his wife of nine years, AFTON SMITH, in December, is already dating MARIA BELLO. Insiders say the two met on the set of "The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor" while filming in China and have serious chemistry.(Lee)
# # #
The British tabloid the London Sun reports that we could be seeing lots more of PENELOPE CRUZ than she ever intended. Weeks after her digital camera originally disappeared while on vacation with her boyfriend, JAVIER BARDEM, it has still not been returned and word is she's extremely nervous there's some "content" on the camera that could be sold to the media. Her lawyer vows that if any private images are leaked there will be legal action. (Lee)
# # #
Don't believe the angry and rude SIMON COWELL you see on American Idol is the real deal --he's actually a teddy bear who's left the majority of his 200-million-dollar fortune to charity. He tells the London Sun tabloid that he got the idea from his mother, who asked if he had a trust set up in the event of his death, so he made it happen with his favorite causes in mind. Simon is a softie for animals, too. He's already donated nearly 20-grand to a dog shelter in Barbados. (Lee)
# # #
PINK has been busy tongue-lashing operators of horse-and-carriage businesses in Central Park, and insinuated last week that the animals are not taken care of! A rep for the industry has now shot back, and CAROLYN DALY tells RUSH and MOLLOY of the NY Daily News that the working equines are very pampered, and even get a four-month vacation every year in the pastures of Pennsylvania! Ms. Daly says that the singer is a true "stupid girl" who doesn'