Chelsea Clinton engaged to boyfriend Marc Mezvinsky -- for real this time

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Chelsea Clinton has announced her engagement to longtime boyfriend Marc Mezvinsky -- via e-mail.

How Etiquette 2.0!

The Ministry means that in a good way -- this way we know it's for real, unlike the last time they "got engaged."

The text of the e-mail sent Friday, as reported by @jaketapper over at ABC News:

"We're sorry for the mass e-mail but we wanted to wish everyone a belated Happy Thanksgiving! We also wanted to share that we are engaged! We didn't get married this past summer despite the stories to the contrary, but we are looking toward next summer and hope you all will be there to celebrate with us. Happy Holidays! Chelsea & Marc."

Mezvinsky, whom she first met in D.C. and then got to know better at Stanford University before they began dating, also has political parents. Chelsea and Marc been dating since 2005 -- he's an investment banker now, and she's in grad school at Columbia University.
During the most recent presidential primaries, the former first daughter broke her policy of not speaking to the media (as was her practice since dad Bill Clinton was president), and campaigned for her mom, Hillary Rodham Clinton.

The Ministry is pleased that Chelsea is respecting its completely arbitrary "Don't get married before you're 30" edict. She's 29 now, but with a February birthday she'll hit the Ministry's magic number in plenty of time for the ceremony.

We're guessing she has ignored our "Don't vote till you're 25" corollary, however.

We get a lot of heat for that one. Doesn't mean it's wrong.

Congrats to Chelsea and Marc!

-- Christie D'Zurilla

Photo: Yay! A wedding! Chelsea Clinton cheers for her mom back in April 2008. We're guessing the sentiment is about the same right now. Credit: Los Angeles Times.

Chelsea Clinton engaged to boyfriend Marc Mezvinsky -- for real this time

By Banzay on 17:38

comm. (0)

Filed Under: ,


Chelsea Clinton has announced her engagement to longtime boyfriend Marc Mezvinsky -- via e-mail.

How Etiquette 2.0!

The Ministry means that in a good way -- this way we know it's for real, unlike the last time they "got engaged."

The text of the e-mail sent Friday, as reported by @jaketapper over at ABC News:

"We're sorry for the mass e-mail but we wanted to wish everyone a belated Happy Thanksgiving! We also wanted to share that we are engaged! We didn't get married this past summer despite the stories to the contrary, but we are looking toward next summer and hope you all will be there to celebrate with us. Happy Holidays! Chelsea & Marc."

Mezvinsky, whom she first met in D.C. and then got to know better at Stanford University before they began dating, also has political parents. Chelsea and Marc been dating since 2005 -- he's an investment banker now, and she's in grad school at Columbia University.
During the most recent presidential primaries, the former first daughter broke her policy of not speaking to the media (as was her practice since dad Bill Clinton was president), and campaigned for her mom, Hillary Rodham Clinton.

The Ministry is pleased that Chelsea is respecting its completely arbitrary "Don't get married before you're 30" edict. She's 29 now, but with a February birthday she'll hit the Ministry's magic number in plenty of time for the ceremony.

We're guessing she has ignored our "Don't vote till you're 25" corollary, however.

We get a lot of heat for that one. Doesn't mean it's wrong.

Congrats to Chelsea and Marc!

-- Christie D'Zurilla

Photo: Yay! A wedding! Chelsea Clinton cheers for her mom back in April 2008. We're guessing the sentiment is about the same right now. Credit: Los Angeles Times.

Serena Williams faces huge penalty for US Open outburst

By Banzay on 07:54

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SERENA Williams faces the prospect of being hit with the largest fine in tennis history when the world champion is finally penalised for her US Open meltdown.

Industry sources last night indicated the International Tennis Federation's Grand Slam committee was close to reaching consensus on the Williams case - almost 12 weeks after the US Open incident.

Williams has been cited under the sport's code of conduct for committing a major offence, an infraction which carries possible suspension from January's Australian Open.

Williams allegedly threatened to kill a lineswoman in New York, monstering the official with: "If I could. I would take this f - - -ing ball and shove it down your f - - -ing throat".
The winner of 11 majors, Williams almost certainly will be allowed to contest the 2010 Australian Open, where she is the defending champion.

But she is likely to receive a fine which far outstrips the $US100,000 ($107,979) Lleyton Hewitt was docked in 2002 for missing an interview in Cincinnati. ITF Grand Slam administrator Bill Babcock has completed his investigation, taking evidence and submissions from Williams and the officials.

Those findings will be discussed at the ATP World Tour finals at the O2 Arena tomorrow by the four members of the Grand Slam committee.

One option is to ban Williams from contesting next season's US Open. Alternatively, the committee could strip Williams of her $US342,825 prizemoney and the 900 rankings points.

There are suggestions a $1 million fine could be levied with a good behaviour bond.

Williams' outburst was triggered by a suspect foot fault call in a tense semi-final against Belgian Kim Clijsters.

Williams has apologised several times for the incident.

It is understood officials intend to release the Williams decision after next week's Davis Cup final in Barcelona.

Serena Williams faces huge penalty for US Open outburst

By Banzay on 07:54

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Filed Under: ,


SERENA Williams faces the prospect of being hit with the largest fine in tennis history when the world champion is finally penalised for her US Open meltdown.

Industry sources last night indicated the International Tennis Federation's Grand Slam committee was close to reaching consensus on the Williams case - almost 12 weeks after the US Open incident.

Williams has been cited under the sport's code of conduct for committing a major offence, an infraction which carries possible suspension from January's Australian Open.

Williams allegedly threatened to kill a lineswoman in New York, monstering the official with: "If I could. I would take this f - - -ing ball and shove it down your f - - -ing throat".
The winner of 11 majors, Williams almost certainly will be allowed to contest the 2010 Australian Open, where she is the defending champion.

But she is likely to receive a fine which far outstrips the $US100,000 ($107,979) Lleyton Hewitt was docked in 2002 for missing an interview in Cincinnati. ITF Grand Slam administrator Bill Babcock has completed his investigation, taking evidence and submissions from Williams and the officials.

Those findings will be discussed at the ATP World Tour finals at the O2 Arena tomorrow by the four members of the Grand Slam committee.

One option is to ban Williams from contesting next season's US Open. Alternatively, the committee could strip Williams of her $US342,825 prizemoney and the 900 rankings points.

There are suggestions a $1 million fine could be levied with a good behaviour bond.

Williams' outburst was triggered by a suspect foot fault call in a tense semi-final against Belgian Kim Clijsters.

Williams has apologised several times for the incident.

It is understood officials intend to release the Williams decision after next week's Davis Cup final in Barcelona.

Tiger Woods' Alleged Mistress: "I Have Not Had An Affair With Him"

By Banzay on 16:56

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Rachel Uchitel, the woman branded as mistress to Tiger Woods by the National Enquirer, sets the record straight to Usmagazine.com: "I did not have an affair with Tiger Woods." She adds: "I met him twice and have not heard from him since."

Woods suffered facial lacerations in a car accident outside his Florida home at around 2:25 am Friday -- and some reports suggest that he and wife Elin Nordegren had been arguing about the infidelity headlines, potentially leading to his accident.

See these memorable celeb infidelity scandals

Uchitel spoke to Usmagazine.com minutes after Woods' crash was reported. She wished the golfer well, but added "this has nothing to do with me. I don't understand why anyone would think this is anything to do with me."

In a conversation days before Woods' crash, Uchitel insisted her innocence to Us. "I have not had an affair with him. I understand that there's rumors all over because everybody's talking about it. But I'm telling you, people say rumors about me all the time. People will say a ton of things about me. I did not have an affair with Tiger Woods. The things that were said from the source in the Enquirer are in fact, not true.

Check out other racy star controversies in this slideshow

She also notes that she offered to take a polygraph for the Enquirer to prove herself, "and they refused it," she says. "They told me it was too late and the story was running anyway."

After being treated for his minor injuries at Health Central Hospital in Ococee, Fla., Woods was released Friday. Although officials are investigating the crash, it does not appear to be alcohol related.

See photos of stars having their day in court

In February, Woods and wife Elin welcomed their second child, a boy, Charlie. Their first child, Sam Alexis, was born in 2007.

See what the stars are thankful for this holiday season

Uchitel was not contacted by Woods' camp following Friday's incident. "But why would I?" she asked Us.

Get more Us! Follow us on Twitter, Friend us on Facebook, Subscribe to Us Weekly

Tiger Woods' Alleged Mistress: "I Have Not Had An Affair With Him"

By Banzay on 16:56

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Rachel Uchitel, the woman branded as mistress to Tiger Woods by the National Enquirer, sets the record straight to Usmagazine.com: "I did not have an affair with Tiger Woods." She adds: "I met him twice and have not heard from him since."

Woods suffered facial lacerations in a car accident outside his Florida home at around 2:25 am Friday -- and some reports suggest that he and wife Elin Nordegren had been arguing about the infidelity headlines, potentially leading to his accident.

See these memorable celeb infidelity scandals

Uchitel spoke to Usmagazine.com minutes after Woods' crash was reported. She wished the golfer well, but added "this has nothing to do with me. I don't understand why anyone would think this is anything to do with me."

In a conversation days before Woods' crash, Uchitel insisted her innocence to Us. "I have not had an affair with him. I understand that there's rumors all over because everybody's talking about it. But I'm telling you, people say rumors about me all the time. People will say a ton of things about me. I did not have an affair with Tiger Woods. The things that were said from the source in the Enquirer are in fact, not true.

Check out other racy star controversies in this slideshow

She also notes that she offered to take a polygraph for the Enquirer to prove herself, "and they refused it," she says. "They told me it was too late and the story was running anyway."

After being treated for his minor injuries at Health Central Hospital in Ococee, Fla., Woods was released Friday. Although officials are investigating the crash, it does not appear to be alcohol related.

See photos of stars having their day in court

In February, Woods and wife Elin welcomed their second child, a boy, Charlie. Their first child, Sam Alexis, was born in 2007.

See what the stars are thankful for this holiday season

Uchitel was not contacted by Woods' camp following Friday's incident. "But why would I?" she asked Us.

Get more Us! Follow us on Twitter, Friend us on Facebook, Subscribe to Us Weekly

Tiger Woods Affair Rachel Uchitel

By Banzay on 08:03

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Tiger Woods Affair Rachel Uchitel, Rachel Uchitel became a major story on Wednesday, when rumors that the 34-year-old was having an affair with Tiger Woods began to circulate. The rumors have picked up steam after the circumstances surrounding Woods’ car accident.
Now Tiger Woods is busy recovering from injuries he sustained when his Cadillac Escalade made an unfortunate merger with a tree and a fire hydrant outside the athlete’s Florida home Friday morning. But the golfer may have an even tougher time reclaiming his squeaky-clean public image, thanks to rumors that he’s been hamming it up with alleged Buss It Baby Rachel Uchitel?
Tiger first met Rachel, 32, when she was working as an event planner and the director of VIP Operations for the Big Apple hotspot Griffin, Ashley Sampson, a friend of Rachel, reveals in the Dec. 7 of Star Magazine. Woods first flirted with Rachel by offering to show her a “good golf grip.”
Rachel’s no stranger to cavalier dalliances with big names stars: The brunette was exposed as the Other Woman in a liaison with Bones star David Boreanaz during his wife Jamie’s recent pregnancy, Star Magazine snitched only weeks ago.
Rachel also bragged to friends that Tiger has promised to serve Elin with divorce papers as a first step towards building a life with her.A second tabloid source adds: “I know for a fact that Tiger and Rachel got together for four days in Los Angeles. She talks about their affair all the time. She thinks Tiger is going to leave his wife and marry her…..”

Tiger Woods Affair Rachel Uchitel

By Banzay on 08:03

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Tiger Woods Affair Rachel Uchitel, Rachel Uchitel became a major story on Wednesday, when rumors that the 34-year-old was having an affair with Tiger Woods began to circulate. The rumors have picked up steam after the circumstances surrounding Woods’ car accident.
Now Tiger Woods is busy recovering from injuries he sustained when his Cadillac Escalade made an unfortunate merger with a tree and a fire hydrant outside the athlete’s Florida home Friday morning. But the golfer may have an even tougher time reclaiming his squeaky-clean public image, thanks to rumors that he’s been hamming it up with alleged Buss It Baby Rachel Uchitel?
Tiger first met Rachel, 32, when she was working as an event planner and the director of VIP Operations for the Big Apple hotspot Griffin, Ashley Sampson, a friend of Rachel, reveals in the Dec. 7 of Star Magazine. Woods first flirted with Rachel by offering to show her a “good golf grip.”
Rachel’s no stranger to cavalier dalliances with big names stars: The brunette was exposed as the Other Woman in a liaison with Bones star David Boreanaz during his wife Jamie’s recent pregnancy, Star Magazine snitched only weeks ago.
Rachel also bragged to friends that Tiger has promised to serve Elin with divorce papers as a first step towards building a life with her.A second tabloid source adds: “I know for a fact that Tiger and Rachel got together for four days in Los Angeles. She talks about their affair all the time. She thinks Tiger is going to leave his wife and marry her…..”

Scott Hamilton Skating Again: RETURN To Ice Provides Inspiration For Thanksgiving Special

By Banzay on 17:24

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Scott Hamilton, world-renowned figure skater and Olympic Gold Medalist, is back on the ice this month after more than five years without skating due to a brain tumor scare.

Also a testicular cancer survivor, Hamilton will participate in a Thanksgiving Day special with fellow cancer survivor Dorothy Hamill. The entertainment-based show "Kaleidiscope" will air Nov. 26 on Fox and also feature other prominent skaters like Kristi Yamaguchi and Nancy Kerrigan.

Hamilton told Fox New York, "I decided this year to take charge of my health, and get back on the ice after five years. It's taken 12 months to get to this point but I'm a work in progress."

"Onward and upward," he added. "If you don't ask your body to do something, you'll never get an answer."

Scott Hamilton Skating Again: RETURN To Ice Provides Inspiration For Thanksgiving Special

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Scott Hamilton, world-renowned figure skater and Olympic Gold Medalist, is back on the ice this month after more than five years without skating due to a brain tumor scare.

Also a testicular cancer survivor, Hamilton will participate in a Thanksgiving Day special with fellow cancer survivor Dorothy Hamill. The entertainment-based show "Kaleidiscope" will air Nov. 26 on Fox and also feature other prominent skaters like Kristi Yamaguchi and Nancy Kerrigan.

Hamilton told Fox New York, "I decided this year to take charge of my health, and get back on the ice after five years. It's taken 12 months to get to this point but I'm a work in progress."

"Onward and upward," he added. "If you don't ask your body to do something, you'll never get an answer."

Michaele Salahi crashes President Obama's State Dinner

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Michaele Salahi is one person who knows how to get into a pre-Thanksgiving Day party. On her Facebook page, she writes:

I was honored to be invited to attend the First State Dinner hosted by President Obama & the First Lady to honor India. In June 2010, the America's Polo Cup will be between INDIA & the UNITED STATES. Please join me in this cultural celebration of politics, diplomacy, fashion, sports, entertainment & family fun.

She even managed to score this cool photo with Vice President Biden:


Trouble is, she wasn't invited.

According to the Guardian UK, Tareq and Michaele Salahi are socialites who managed to, as they described it, "breach security" into the State Dinner.

But to write there was a "breach in security" is really culturally irresponsible. I can speculate with some accuracy how the Salahi's got into the dinner: they knew someone and perhaps Vice President Biden himself.

Look, a little research will show this is a well-connected couple. A November 4, 2008 Washington Post article reveals as much. In an report on a winery sale dispute that involved the Salahi's, the Post reveals...

Tareq Salahi, 39, also a co-owner, and his wife, Michaele, a former Washington Redskins cheerleader who is now a Richmond lobbyist. The son, a member of the Virginia Tourism Authority, is hurrying to team up with investors to buy what he views as his heritage before someone else steps in.

She's a lobbyist and a former Redskins Cheerleader; he's co-owner of a winery. What happened was they knew someone within the chain of people who was assigned to vet who was to come into the event and they got them in.

Once at the State Dinner they were able to see a number of people they knew. In other words, invited or not, they belonged there because their network of informal connections got them in.

That's my story and I'm sticking to it. It's also a good lesson for anyone to follow and comes from "How to win friends and influence people". They are in a business where knowing people and maintaining relationships is vital and its obvious they do a great job of keeping ties with a good network of the Washington elite.

Bravo! I say. Excellent.

For anyone who says "They could not have done that if they were black," I disagree. You can't think about what others might do and achieve success. You have to press forward. Make friends and keep contacts and laugh at those who poop on the idea that knowing people isn't important. Without people there would be no parties to crash in the first place.




Michaele Salahi crashes President Obama's State Dinner

By Banzay on 06:42

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Michaele Salahi is one person who knows how to get into a pre-Thanksgiving Day party. On her Facebook page, she writes:

I was honored to be invited to attend the First State Dinner hosted by President Obama & the First Lady to honor India. In June 2010, the America's Polo Cup will be between INDIA & the UNITED STATES. Please join me in this cultural celebration of politics, diplomacy, fashion, sports, entertainment & family fun.

She even managed to score this cool photo with Vice President Biden:


Trouble is, she wasn't invited.

According to the Guardian UK, Tareq and Michaele Salahi are socialites who managed to, as they described it, "breach security" into the State Dinner.

But to write there was a "breach in security" is really culturally irresponsible. I can speculate with some accuracy how the Salahi's got into the dinner: they knew someone and perhaps Vice President Biden himself.

Look, a little research will show this is a well-connected couple. A November 4, 2008 Washington Post article reveals as much. In an report on a winery sale dispute that involved the Salahi's, the Post reveals...

Tareq Salahi, 39, also a co-owner, and his wife, Michaele, a former Washington Redskins cheerleader who is now a Richmond lobbyist. The son, a member of the Virginia Tourism Authority, is hurrying to team up with investors to buy what he views as his heritage before someone else steps in.

She's a lobbyist and a former Redskins Cheerleader; he's co-owner of a winery. What happened was they knew someone within the chain of people who was assigned to vet who was to come into the event and they got them in.

Once at the State Dinner they were able to see a number of people they knew. In other words, invited or not, they belonged there because their network of informal connections got them in.

That's my story and I'm sticking to it. It's also a good lesson for anyone to follow and comes from "How to win friends and influence people". They are in a business where knowing people and maintaining relationships is vital and its obvious they do a great job of keeping ties with a good network of the Washington elite.

Bravo! I say. Excellent.

For anyone who says "They could not have done that if they were black," I disagree. You can't think about what others might do and achieve success. You have to press forward. Make friends and keep contacts and laugh at those who poop on the idea that knowing people isn't important. Without people there would be no parties to crash in the first place.




Michelle Obama shines at couple’s first state dinner

By Banzay on 07:18

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But the day is spoilt by the bizarre monkey image Google refuses to remove
BY RACHEL HELYER DONALDSONFIRST POSTED NOVEMBER 25, 2009
Hollywood and Bollywood converged on Washington DC last night as President Barack Obama and Michelle Obama threw their first state dinner, a glittering event in honour of Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and his wife, Gursharan Kaur. Michelle Obama wowed guests in a glamorous strapless silver and cream-coloured sheath dress and shawl, created by the Indian-born American designer Naeem Khan.

Khan's designs have become a red-carpet choice for pop stars and actresses including Beyonce, Katherine Heigl and Carrie Underwood. The First Lady's gown took three weeks to make, with a team of 40 on the case at the designer's family workshop in India.

Michelle Obama's choice impressed the fashion critics. Mary Tomer, author of the new book Mrs O: The Face of Fashion Democracy said: "I think she looks fabulous. She walked out in something that's figure-flattering and chic. Naeem's work is known for glamour and embellishment and this dress seems to embody that."

Hal Rubenstein, fashion director for InStyle magazine, said it was a sophisticated choice, which paid homage to India without opting for a traditional sari-style dress. "The nice thing about it is the Jackie Kennedy sort of appropriateness."

The 338-strong guest list was a mix of Washington insiders, Hollywood stars and prominent figures from the Indian community in the US. Guests included directors Steven Spielberg and M Night Shyamalan and actors Blair Underwood and Alfre Woodard. Headlining the entertainment was Jennifer Hudson, the Oscar-winning actress and singer who is to play Winnie Mandela in an upcoming biopic. The menu, which included potato and eggplant salad, arugula from the White House garden, red lentil soup and green curry prawns, featured very little meat as Singh is vegetarian.

The day was clouded, however, by the bizarre case of a racist image of Michelle Obama appearing on Google. The image, which depicts the First Lady as a monkey, has been coming top of Google Images search results for 'Michelle Obama'. Google has apologised for the image but refused to remove it. Instead, they placed a notice over it titled Offensive Search Results, stating: "Sometimes our search results can be offensive. We agree."

But the California-based search engine giant refused to remove the picture from its search results. "Google views the integrity of our search results as an extremely important priority," a statement from the company read. "Accordingly, we do not remove a page from our search results simply because its content is unpopular or because we receive complaints concerning it." The White House has declined to comment.

Michelle Obama shines at couple’s first state dinner

By Banzay on 07:18

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But the day is spoilt by the bizarre monkey image Google refuses to remove
BY RACHEL HELYER DONALDSONFIRST POSTED NOVEMBER 25, 2009
Hollywood and Bollywood converged on Washington DC last night as President Barack Obama and Michelle Obama threw their first state dinner, a glittering event in honour of Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and his wife, Gursharan Kaur. Michelle Obama wowed guests in a glamorous strapless silver and cream-coloured sheath dress and shawl, created by the Indian-born American designer Naeem Khan.

Khan's designs have become a red-carpet choice for pop stars and actresses including Beyonce, Katherine Heigl and Carrie Underwood. The First Lady's gown took three weeks to make, with a team of 40 on the case at the designer's family workshop in India.

Michelle Obama's choice impressed the fashion critics. Mary Tomer, author of the new book Mrs O: The Face of Fashion Democracy said: "I think she looks fabulous. She walked out in something that's figure-flattering and chic. Naeem's work is known for glamour and embellishment and this dress seems to embody that."

Hal Rubenstein, fashion director for InStyle magazine, said it was a sophisticated choice, which paid homage to India without opting for a traditional sari-style dress. "The nice thing about it is the Jackie Kennedy sort of appropriateness."

The 338-strong guest list was a mix of Washington insiders, Hollywood stars and prominent figures from the Indian community in the US. Guests included directors Steven Spielberg and M Night Shyamalan and actors Blair Underwood and Alfre Woodard. Headlining the entertainment was Jennifer Hudson, the Oscar-winning actress and singer who is to play Winnie Mandela in an upcoming biopic. The menu, which included potato and eggplant salad, arugula from the White House garden, red lentil soup and green curry prawns, featured very little meat as Singh is vegetarian.

The day was clouded, however, by the bizarre case of a racist image of Michelle Obama appearing on Google. The image, which depicts the First Lady as a monkey, has been coming top of Google Images search results for 'Michelle Obama'. Google has apologised for the image but refused to remove it. Instead, they placed a notice over it titled Offensive Search Results, stating: "Sometimes our search results can be offensive. We agree."

But the California-based search engine giant refused to remove the picture from its search results. "Google views the integrity of our search results as an extremely important priority," a statement from the company read. "Accordingly, we do not remove a page from our search results simply because its content is unpopular or because we receive complaints concerning it." The White House has declined to comment.

Rafael Cebrian: Who's that guy Emma Watson is dating?

By Banzay on 17:36

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When the New York Post reported earlier this week that "Harry Potter" actress Emma Watson was seen at a Rangers game last weekend along with Yves Saint Laurent creative director Stefano Pilati and "Spanish rocker Rafael Cebrian" we didn't think too much of it. After all, the offered proof that they are an item was "they were sitting very close together."

But then we kept seeing the phrase "Spanish rocker Rafael Cebrian" pop up here and there and started to wonder: Who is this guy?

A search of the Internet didn't help too much -- at least on the image side of things -- since about the only photo of him that appeared was the above press shot for his band The Monomes that Cebrian is the drummer for (he's second from the left with the drumsticks in his front pocket).

Having taken French in high school, we're also a bit unsure of how good The Monomes supposedly are, although we think their first CD "Give it an 'M'" has been called "a refreshing debut" and they are a "major 'teen' band." That's what "el refrescante debut" and "mejores bandas 'teen'" mean, right?

We also know that he's a Brown classmate of Watson's and you can become a fan of The Monomes on Facebook.

Rafael Cebrian: Who's that guy Emma Watson is dating?

By Banzay on 17:36

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When the New York Post reported earlier this week that "Harry Potter" actress Emma Watson was seen at a Rangers game last weekend along with Yves Saint Laurent creative director Stefano Pilati and "Spanish rocker Rafael Cebrian" we didn't think too much of it. After all, the offered proof that they are an item was "they were sitting very close together."

But then we kept seeing the phrase "Spanish rocker Rafael Cebrian" pop up here and there and started to wonder: Who is this guy?

A search of the Internet didn't help too much -- at least on the image side of things -- since about the only photo of him that appeared was the above press shot for his band The Monomes that Cebrian is the drummer for (he's second from the left with the drumsticks in his front pocket).

Having taken French in high school, we're also a bit unsure of how good The Monomes supposedly are, although we think their first CD "Give it an 'M'" has been called "a refreshing debut" and they are a "major 'teen' band." That's what "el refrescante debut" and "mejores bandas 'teen'" mean, right?

We also know that he's a Brown classmate of Watson's and you can become a fan of The Monomes on Facebook.

Emmanuel Delcour: Porn star turned chef

By Banzay on 06:22

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One of the contestant’s on Bravo’s new show Chef Academy has a bit of a shady past. Emmanuel Delcour, known as Jean Val Jean in the adult film world, was once a porn star. Apparently he's good at what he does because he won the AVN Male Foreign Performer of the Year award.

Is Bravo shocked and ready to throw him off the show? Not at all! Instead the network is using Emmanuel Delcour’s past to help publicize the show. On the latest episode, Chef Academy contestants Kup and Kylie discover their chef-in-the-making co-star has tossed salads in more ways than one. It's likely that Bravo cast Emmanuel Delcour knowing this information with the intention of adding more "spice" to the show. In fact, Emmanuel Delcour was originally outed as being a porn star on "Keeping Up with the Kardashians".

Check out the video below of the Chef Academy students discovering Emmanuel Delcour's porn past.

Emmanuel Delcour: Porn star turned chef

By Banzay on 06:22

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One of the contestant’s on Bravo’s new show Chef Academy has a bit of a shady past. Emmanuel Delcour, known as Jean Val Jean in the adult film world, was once a porn star. Apparently he's good at what he does because he won the AVN Male Foreign Performer of the Year award.

Is Bravo shocked and ready to throw him off the show? Not at all! Instead the network is using Emmanuel Delcour’s past to help publicize the show. On the latest episode, Chef Academy contestants Kup and Kylie discover their chef-in-the-making co-star has tossed salads in more ways than one. It's likely that Bravo cast Emmanuel Delcour knowing this information with the intention of adding more "spice" to the show. In fact, Emmanuel Delcour was originally outed as being a porn star on "Keeping Up with the Kardashians".

Check out the video below of the Chef Academy students discovering Emmanuel Delcour's porn past.

Whitney Houston performs at the American Music Awards

By Banzay on 17:09

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Los Angeles, Nov 23 (THAINDIAN NEWS) The American Music Awards(AMA) were a surprise of all sorts. There was Adam Lambert’s raunchy performance, there was Jennifer Lopez who fell on her biggest asset- her butt, while trying for a smashing comeback into the music scene. And there was Whitney Houston who returned to the American Music Award stage on Sunday night, blazing ahead with an already strong comeback year.

She accepted the award for International Artist, which is quiet an honor for her as this is an award which is given to less than ten recording artists, Houston thanked fans for simply standing by.

Whitney Houston amazed the audience away with her new song “I Didn’t Know My Own Strength”. The lyrics of the song, were very apt for Houston, considering the struggles the singer has been through over the past few years.

Whitney Houston sang very well and looked gorgeous as well, even though she didn’t look like she was 46 years old at all. She is also very close to celebrating her 25th year in music.

There were many performances in the AMA by Alicia Keys, Janet Jackson, Adam Lambert, Rihanna, Shakira and Samuel L. Jackson.



Read more: http://www.thaindian.com/newsportal/entertainment/whitney-houston-performs-at-the-american-music-awards_100279015.html#ixzz0XjdPFnBX

Whitney Houston performs at the American Music Awards

By Banzay on 17:09

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Los Angeles, Nov 23 (THAINDIAN NEWS) The American Music Awards(AMA) were a surprise of all sorts. There was Adam Lambert’s raunchy performance, there was Jennifer Lopez who fell on her biggest asset- her butt, while trying for a smashing comeback into the music scene. And there was Whitney Houston who returned to the American Music Award stage on Sunday night, blazing ahead with an already strong comeback year.

She accepted the award for International Artist, which is quiet an honor for her as this is an award which is given to less than ten recording artists, Houston thanked fans for simply standing by.

Whitney Houston amazed the audience away with her new song “I Didn’t Know My Own Strength”. The lyrics of the song, were very apt for Houston, considering the struggles the singer has been through over the past few years.

Whitney Houston sang very well and looked gorgeous as well, even though she didn’t look like she was 46 years old at all. She is also very close to celebrating her 25th year in music.

There were many performances in the AMA by Alicia Keys, Janet Jackson, Adam Lambert, Rihanna, Shakira and Samuel L. Jackson.



Read more: http://www.thaindian.com/newsportal/entertainment/whitney-houston-performs-at-the-american-music-awards_100279015.html#ixzz0XjdPFnBX

American Music Awards 2009: Jennifer Lopez falls but is still a "knockout"

By Banzay on 07:33

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The always sophisticated Jennifer Lopez knows how to gain anyone's attention, especially at last night's 37th annual American Music Awards 2009.
The 40-year-old who performed the song, "Louboutins," came out walking as the "main event," dressed in a black and gold boxing yet dressy get-up, where she had a boxing ring waiting for her on stage.
However, giving a "knockout" performance, Lopez's dancers created a staircase which JLO walked on, but Lopez lost balance as she jumped back down, falling on her butt.
The singer who kept her composure, jumped back on her feet and ignored her fall down.

American Music Awards 2009: Jennifer Lopez falls but is still a "knockout"

By Banzay on 07:33

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The always sophisticated Jennifer Lopez knows how to gain anyone's attention, especially at last night's 37th annual American Music Awards 2009.
The 40-year-old who performed the song, "Louboutins," came out walking as the "main event," dressed in a black and gold boxing yet dressy get-up, where she had a boxing ring waiting for her on stage.
However, giving a "knockout" performance, Lopez's dancers created a staircase which JLO walked on, but Lopez lost balance as she jumped back down, falling on her butt.
The singer who kept her composure, jumped back on her feet and ignored her fall down.

Will Smith not dead in Porsche car accident, but Smith sat in church and thought of how to help kids

By Banzay on 17:50

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Fake rumors claiming Will Smith died in a car accident on November 22, 2009, are floating around the web the same day the false rumors of Ray J's death surfaced.
"Will Smith was driving his Porsche in the Hollywood Hills earlier today when he suddenly lost control and flipped his car," say the fake rumors.
The false report goes on to claim that "paramedics arrived on the scene within minutes but were unable to revive Mr. Smith.”
Well those false quotes can be summarily dismissed right away, because if Will Smith were ever -- heaven forbid -- involved in a car accident and paramedics were called, you can best believe the Associated Press or even TMZ or Routers or UPI would be all over it faster than the scammers trying to get searchers to click on their malware links with false titles like "Will Smith dead" to lure web surfers to their websites.
According to CNN.com, however, Will Smith is involved in great projects, like the one described in this video of singer Kenny Lattimore, who gave the news agency the details of a project called The ASHE Foundation that helps put shoes on needy children's feet.
"Thanks to actor Will Smith, the ASHE Foundation took its first shipment of shoes to Africa in January," reads the CNN transcript of the interview that preceded Kenny Lattimore's portion.

"Will Smith was in church one Sunday and he heard me begging for shoes and he said, "OK, I'll pay for 15 people -- 15 members of the congregation to go to Africa to deliver these shoes," said Dion Fearon founded a non-profit called the ASHE Foundation.
It's no surprise to hear of the actor's charitable contributions decided upon in a sanctuary. Jada Pinkett Smith, Will's wife, called her husband just a "straight up Christian" in a popular spread of the married couple in Essence (that needs to be fully scanned into Google Books like Ebony and such ASAP!) -- as opposed to Jada herself, who dabbles in other faiths .
Unlike Ray J, Will Smith does not have a readily apparent and verified Twitter.com nor Facebook.com account -- but these false rumors of Smith's early demise are thankfully, nonetheless, false.

Will Smith not dead in Porsche car accident, but Smith sat in church and thought of how to help kids

By Banzay on 17:50

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Fake rumors claiming Will Smith died in a car accident on November 22, 2009, are floating around the web the same day the false rumors of Ray J's death surfaced.
"Will Smith was driving his Porsche in the Hollywood Hills earlier today when he suddenly lost control and flipped his car," say the fake rumors.
The false report goes on to claim that "paramedics arrived on the scene within minutes but were unable to revive Mr. Smith.”
Well those false quotes can be summarily dismissed right away, because if Will Smith were ever -- heaven forbid -- involved in a car accident and paramedics were called, you can best believe the Associated Press or even TMZ or Routers or UPI would be all over it faster than the scammers trying to get searchers to click on their malware links with false titles like "Will Smith dead" to lure web surfers to their websites.
According to CNN.com, however, Will Smith is involved in great projects, like the one described in this video of singer Kenny Lattimore, who gave the news agency the details of a project called The ASHE Foundation that helps put shoes on needy children's feet.
"Thanks to actor Will Smith, the ASHE Foundation took its first shipment of shoes to Africa in January," reads the CNN transcript of the interview that preceded Kenny Lattimore's portion.

"Will Smith was in church one Sunday and he heard me begging for shoes and he said, "OK, I'll pay for 15 people -- 15 members of the congregation to go to Africa to deliver these shoes," said Dion Fearon founded a non-profit called the ASHE Foundation.
It's no surprise to hear of the actor's charitable contributions decided upon in a sanctuary. Jada Pinkett Smith, Will's wife, called her husband just a "straight up Christian" in a popular spread of the married couple in Essence (that needs to be fully scanned into Google Books like Ebony and such ASAP!) -- as opposed to Jada herself, who dabbles in other faiths .
Unlike Ray J, Will Smith does not have a readily apparent and verified Twitter.com nor Facebook.com account -- but these false rumors of Smith's early demise are thankfully, nonetheless, false.

Kate Mara See Through

By Banzay on 06:32

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Kate Mara See Through, Kate Mara is set to debut next to Justin Timberlake in the upcoming movie The Open Road. We’re sure it’s gonna be somewhere between awesome and we don’t give a fuck. Kate is the daughter of the New York Giants VP of Player Evaluation, Chris Mara and granddaughter of the renowned the Hall of Fame Giants owner.
But Kate Mara is blowing up right now cause people want to see her hot scenes where she’s shooting people in a bra and/or her shirt is just barely see through. Also, she’s fine like a sweet girl next door.

Kate Mara See Through

By Banzay on 06:32

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Kate Mara See Through, Kate Mara is set to debut next to Justin Timberlake in the upcoming movie The Open Road. We’re sure it’s gonna be somewhere between awesome and we don’t give a fuck. Kate is the daughter of the New York Giants VP of Player Evaluation, Chris Mara and granddaughter of the renowned the Hall of Fame Giants owner.
But Kate Mara is blowing up right now cause people want to see her hot scenes where she’s shooting people in a bra and/or her shirt is just barely see through. Also, she’s fine like a sweet girl next door.

Buffalo Bills Take A Chance At Louisville Quarterback: Brian Brohm

By Banzay on 08:10

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On top of Dick Jauron being fired, the pursuit of Mike Shanahan, the Bills can also be excited about the addition of another quarterback prospect - Brian Brohm, 2008 2nd round pick out of Louisville. He was signed today by the Bills from the Green Bay Packers.

He may be the product of a great system at Louisville, but The Bills have nothing to lose.

We know about other Green Back back ups who have succeeded - Mark Brunell, Matt Hasselbeck!

Buffalo Bills Take A Chance At Louisville Quarterback: Brian Brohm

By Banzay on 08:10

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On top of Dick Jauron being fired, the pursuit of Mike Shanahan, the Bills can also be excited about the addition of another quarterback prospect - Brian Brohm, 2008 2nd round pick out of Louisville. He was signed today by the Bills from the Green Bay Packers.

He may be the product of a great system at Louisville, but The Bills have nothing to lose.

We know about other Green Back back ups who have succeeded - Mark Brunell, Matt Hasselbeck!

WILL CARRIE UNDERWOOD MOVE IN WITH BOYFRIEND MIKE FISHER?

By Banzay on 17:46

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Country music sensation Carrie Underwood appeared on "The Ellen DeGeneres Show" on Wednesday afternoon, and she revealed if she plans to move in with her boyfriend, Mike Fisher.
When asked if the pair plans to shack up together, Carrie prefaced her answer by saying, "Call me old fashioned."
"The next guy I move in with will be my hubby, whoever that is," she told Ellen. "I'm not saying it's going to be him."
She said the relationship with the Ottawa Senators hockey player is the "the longest relationship I've had."
The blonde beauty also said the she was initially put off by the idea of dating a hockey player who lived so far away (Canada), but added, "We see each other more than people think we see each other. We don't go out…but we do get to see each other."

WILL CARRIE UNDERWOOD MOVE IN WITH BOYFRIEND MIKE FISHER?

By Banzay on 17:46

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Country music sensation Carrie Underwood appeared on "The Ellen DeGeneres Show" on Wednesday afternoon, and she revealed if she plans to move in with her boyfriend, Mike Fisher.
When asked if the pair plans to shack up together, Carrie prefaced her answer by saying, "Call me old fashioned."
"The next guy I move in with will be my hubby, whoever that is," she told Ellen. "I'm not saying it's going to be him."
She said the relationship with the Ottawa Senators hockey player is the "the longest relationship I've had."
The blonde beauty also said the she was initially put off by the idea of dating a hockey player who lived so far away (Canada), but added, "We see each other more than people think we see each other. We don't go out…but we do get to see each other."

Nina Muschallik PHOTO!

By Banzay on 07:35

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PHOTO! Here is a picture of the beautiful Nina Muschallik of Saving Private Ryan covered on TV today. Nina Muschallik appeared in Celebrity Fear Factor UK in 2004. She had previously starred as Emma in 2003 tv series Goal.
Nina’s other credits include Dream as Nikki Peggs, Death, Deceit & Destiny Aboard the Orient Express as Polly, High Explosive as Kat Koller, and Guest House Paradiso as the Saucy wood nymph

The British actor born in 1976 appeared in modeling ad campaigns for Pot Noodle advertisements, entitled the “Slag of Snacks”. As a child actor she appeared on ITV series Kappatoo.

Other credits include a Robbie Coltrane’s girl in the James Bond movie The World Is Not Enough.

Nina attended Redroofs Theatre School in Maidenhead, England.

Nina Muschallik PHOTO!

By Banzay on 07:35

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PHOTO! Here is a picture of the beautiful Nina Muschallik of Saving Private Ryan covered on TV today. Nina Muschallik appeared in Celebrity Fear Factor UK in 2004. She had previously starred as Emma in 2003 tv series Goal.
Nina’s other credits include Dream as Nikki Peggs, Death, Deceit & Destiny Aboard the Orient Express as Polly, High Explosive as Kat Koller, and Guest House Paradiso as the Saucy wood nymph

The British actor born in 1976 appeared in modeling ad campaigns for Pot Noodle advertisements, entitled the “Slag of Snacks”. As a child actor she appeared on ITV series Kappatoo.

Other credits include a Robbie Coltrane’s girl in the James Bond movie The World Is Not Enough.

Nina attended Redroofs Theatre School in Maidenhead, England.

Ken Ober of MTV’s ‘Remote Control’ dies at 52

By Banzay on 17:46

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The New York Times is reporting that comedian Ken Ober, best known as the host of MTV’s “Remote Control,” died this weekend of unknown causes, although he had been complaining of flu-like symptoms. He was 52.

Ober began hosting “Remote Control” in 1987, marking MTV’s first foray into original, non-music-video programming.

He had more recently been a producer on Comedy Central’s “Mind of Mencia” and CBS sitcom “The New Adventures of Old Christine.”

Ken Ober of MTV’s ‘Remote Control’ dies at 52

By Banzay on 17:46

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The New York Times is reporting that comedian Ken Ober, best known as the host of MTV’s “Remote Control,” died this weekend of unknown causes, although he had been complaining of flu-like symptoms. He was 52.

Ober began hosting “Remote Control” in 1987, marking MTV’s first foray into original, non-music-video programming.

He had more recently been a producer on Comedy Central’s “Mind of Mencia” and CBS sitcom “The New Adventures of Old Christine.”

Edward Woodward 1930-2009

By Banzay on 06:52

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Edward Woodward cemented his iconic status when he starred in British movie The Wicker Man, which has gone on to gain cult status over the years.

But at the age of seventy nine the actor has passed away from a series of illnesses, including pneumonia.

A young Woodward always dreamed of being an actor and attended the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA). In 1946 he began his acting career on the stage, mainly as a Shakespearean actor up and down the country.

In 1955 he made his debut in London and went on to work on the likes of Hamlet and Romeo and Juliet in the West End.

He would go onto tread the boards on Broadway and down under in Australia.

By the mid fifties he was also juggling movie roles, making his debut in 1955 in Where There's A Will, an adaptation of R.F. Delderfields' play.

He appeared in the likes of Becket, Sitting Target and Hunted over the coming years but it's his 1973 role as devout Christian Police Sergeant Neil Howie for which he best remembered.

Sergeant Howie, a naive young police officer sent to Summerisle, a secluded island off the coast of Scotland, to investigate the disappearance of a young girl named Rowan. When he arrives there, he finds a very tight-knit community that is mistrustful and hostile to outsiders.

No one is willing to even acknowledge Rowan's disappearance. Soon, Howie begins to realize that the town might, in fact, be a strange pagan cult, one given to unbridled sexuality and possible human sacrifice.

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Seeking an audience with the oddly civilized Lord Summerisle (Christopher Lee), Howie hopes to get to the bottom of the mystery, but instead he finds something more shocking than he could have ever imagined.

But when it was released the movie only enjoyed mediocre success and it only the years since then that it has become the critical hit that it now is, today it is considered one of the best British horror movies of all time.

Other movie performances include Australian movie Breaker Morant, his performance brought the movie to worldwide recognition. And more recently he appeared in Hot Fuzz.

As well as making a name for himself on both the stage and the big screen Woodward also moved into television and during his career appearing in 2000 projects for the small screen.

He worked on the likes of American show The Equalizer, which followed a British former intelligence operative, running for four years in the eighties.

The actor has suffered two heart attacks and underwent a triple bypass surgery in 1996. In 2003 he was diagnosed with prostate cancer.

The actor died at the Royal Cornwall Hospital in Truro earlier today at the age of seventy nine. he is survived by wife Michele Dotrice and three children; Tim Woodward, Peter Woodward and Emily Beth.

Edward Woodward 1930-2009

By Banzay on 06:52

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Edward Woodward cemented his iconic status when he starred in British movie The Wicker Man, which has gone on to gain cult status over the years.

But at the age of seventy nine the actor has passed away from a series of illnesses, including pneumonia.

A young Woodward always dreamed of being an actor and attended the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA). In 1946 he began his acting career on the stage, mainly as a Shakespearean actor up and down the country.

In 1955 he made his debut in London and went on to work on the likes of Hamlet and Romeo and Juliet in the West End.

He would go onto tread the boards on Broadway and down under in Australia.

By the mid fifties he was also juggling movie roles, making his debut in 1955 in Where There's A Will, an adaptation of R.F. Delderfields' play.

He appeared in the likes of Becket, Sitting Target and Hunted over the coming years but it's his 1973 role as devout Christian Police Sergeant Neil Howie for which he best remembered.

Sergeant Howie, a naive young police officer sent to Summerisle, a secluded island off the coast of Scotland, to investigate the disappearance of a young girl named Rowan. When he arrives there, he finds a very tight-knit community that is mistrustful and hostile to outsiders.

No one is willing to even acknowledge Rowan's disappearance. Soon, Howie begins to realize that the town might, in fact, be a strange pagan cult, one given to unbridled sexuality and possible human sacrifice.

Comment on this Article
Seeking an audience with the oddly civilized Lord Summerisle (Christopher Lee), Howie hopes to get to the bottom of the mystery, but instead he finds something more shocking than he could have ever imagined.

But when it was released the movie only enjoyed mediocre success and it only the years since then that it has become the critical hit that it now is, today it is considered one of the best British horror movies of all time.

Other movie performances include Australian movie Breaker Morant, his performance brought the movie to worldwide recognition. And more recently he appeared in Hot Fuzz.

As well as making a name for himself on both the stage and the big screen Woodward also moved into television and during his career appearing in 2000 projects for the small screen.

He worked on the likes of American show The Equalizer, which followed a British former intelligence operative, running for four years in the eighties.

The actor has suffered two heart attacks and underwent a triple bypass surgery in 1996. In 2003 he was diagnosed with prostate cancer.

The actor died at the Royal Cornwall Hospital in Truro earlier today at the age of seventy nine. he is survived by wife Michele Dotrice and three children; Tim Woodward, Peter Woodward and Emily Beth.

Jessie Baylin and Kings of Lean Drummer Nathan Followill Get Hitched

By Banzay on 17:36

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Jessie Baylin, a folk and jazz singer, and Nathan Followill, Kings of Lean drummer, got married in Tennessee yesterday. The wedding featured a catered dinner, and dancing inside the property's barn. The cute couple had their first dance as a married couple to a Hawaiian lap steel guitar song.
"I woke up with a married woman in my bed this morning," Nathan, 30, tweeted this morning (via People.com). "Luckily she was mine."

Jessie, 25, was born in New Jersey and released her first major label record Firesight last year. Before that Norah Jones helped produce her first album You, which was released on iTunes.

Jessie Baylin and Kings of Lean Drummer Nathan Followill Get Hitched

By Banzay on 17:36

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Jessie Baylin, a folk and jazz singer, and Nathan Followill, Kings of Lean drummer, got married in Tennessee yesterday. The wedding featured a catered dinner, and dancing inside the property's barn. The cute couple had their first dance as a married couple to a Hawaiian lap steel guitar song.
"I woke up with a married woman in my bed this morning," Nathan, 30, tweeted this morning (via People.com). "Luckily she was mine."

Jessie, 25, was born in New Jersey and released her first major label record Firesight last year. Before that Norah Jones helped produce her first album You, which was released on iTunes.

Roky Erikson played Scion Garage Fest, adds more NY shows

By Banzay on 08:16

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"The Scion Garage Fest was pretty amazing, and I managed to catch the complete sets from ten bands. Simply Saucer was a huge disappointment, as their set was comprised of mostly watered down blues that sounded nothing like their sole album- Cyborgs Revisited. There were a couple of bands that I missed because the schedules didn't allow me to see everything I wanted to see. I opted to go to Black Lips instead of Gris Gris because I couldn't sit through any more of Simply Saucer's set, and I needed some sustenance from Dante's inferno. After spending half of Black Lips set outside due to Berbati's annoying 1 in= 1 out policy, I decided to stay there and check out Roky Erickson's set. Unfortunately, catching the King Khan & BBQ set at Dante's was not in the cards for me...
...I'm not a huge fan of Roky's solo stuff as it always reminds me of the music from bad 80's movies, but closing with with the 13th Floor Elevator's classic "You're Gonna Miss Me" was an ace move." [Eclectic Grooves]

Can't make it to Maxwell's on New Years Eve to see Roky Erikson? Now there are two more NYC-area chances to see him first thing in the new year. On January 1st he's playing a show at Southpaw, and then on January 2nd he returns to Maxwell's. The two new shows are $10 cheaper than the New Years Eve one, and tickets for all three are on sale.

Roky Erikson played Scion Garage Fest, adds more NY shows

By Banzay on 08:16

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"The Scion Garage Fest was pretty amazing, and I managed to catch the complete sets from ten bands. Simply Saucer was a huge disappointment, as their set was comprised of mostly watered down blues that sounded nothing like their sole album- Cyborgs Revisited. There were a couple of bands that I missed because the schedules didn't allow me to see everything I wanted to see. I opted to go to Black Lips instead of Gris Gris because I couldn't sit through any more of Simply Saucer's set, and I needed some sustenance from Dante's inferno. After spending half of Black Lips set outside due to Berbati's annoying 1 in= 1 out policy, I decided to stay there and check out Roky Erickson's set. Unfortunately, catching the King Khan & BBQ set at Dante's was not in the cards for me...
...I'm not a huge fan of Roky's solo stuff as it always reminds me of the music from bad 80's movies, but closing with with the 13th Floor Elevator's classic "You're Gonna Miss Me" was an ace move." [Eclectic Grooves]

Can't make it to Maxwell's on New Years Eve to see Roky Erikson? Now there are two more NYC-area chances to see him first thing in the new year. On January 1st he's playing a show at Southpaw, and then on January 2nd he returns to Maxwell's. The two new shows are $10 cheaper than the New Years Eve one, and tickets for all three are on sale.

Singer's charity donation

By Banzay on 08:35

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A SINGER and former cancer patient has raised £8,500 to buy equipment for a regional cancer charity.

Trish Greensmith, known to many by her stage name Chyrelle Addams, (Correct) donated money collected during performances to the Charlie Bear for Cancer Care charitable fund.

It will use the money to buy a portable blood pressure machine to help the Freeman Hospital, in Newcastle, to better treat cancer patients.

Mrs Greensmith, from Willington, County Durham, was diagnosed with breast cancer in May 2007 and set up the Chyrelle Addams Breast Cancer Appeal Trust 18 months ago, after her recovery.

Her campaign is supported by Durham County Council chairman Coun Brian Myers.

She said: "I feel very strongly that if I don’t do something positive to help other cancer patients, then I’ve had cancer for nothing.

"I’ve chosen to buy individual hospitals pieces of equipment they need, rather than donate a sum of money, because I see every single penny donated going directly to providing hospitals with what they need and raising standards of care for cancer patients."

Launched more than 30 years ago, the Charlie Bear fund originally aimed to raise £1m to buy the region’s first whole body scanner.

The charity was adopted by Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust in 1993 and has helped hundreds of patients battling cancer.

Angie Taylor, Charlie Bear co-ordinator, said: "It is rare that we are contacted by anyone asking us if there’s anything specific we need to help us treat our patients. "When Trish called and offered to buy us a portable blood pressure machine, we were overjoyed.

"We’re very grateful to her and for the extra boost to our patients’ care that this machine will provide."

Singer's charity donation

By Banzay on 08:35

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A SINGER and former cancer patient has raised £8,500 to buy equipment for a regional cancer charity.

Trish Greensmith, known to many by her stage name Chyrelle Addams, (Correct) donated money collected during performances to the Charlie Bear for Cancer Care charitable fund.

It will use the money to buy a portable blood pressure machine to help the Freeman Hospital, in Newcastle, to better treat cancer patients.

Mrs Greensmith, from Willington, County Durham, was diagnosed with breast cancer in May 2007 and set up the Chyrelle Addams Breast Cancer Appeal Trust 18 months ago, after her recovery.

Her campaign is supported by Durham County Council chairman Coun Brian Myers.

She said: "I feel very strongly that if I don’t do something positive to help other cancer patients, then I’ve had cancer for nothing.

"I’ve chosen to buy individual hospitals pieces of equipment they need, rather than donate a sum of money, because I see every single penny donated going directly to providing hospitals with what they need and raising standards of care for cancer patients."

Launched more than 30 years ago, the Charlie Bear fund originally aimed to raise £1m to buy the region’s first whole body scanner.

The charity was adopted by Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust in 1993 and has helped hundreds of patients battling cancer.

Angie Taylor, Charlie Bear co-ordinator, said: "It is rare that we are contacted by anyone asking us if there’s anything specific we need to help us treat our patients. "When Trish called and offered to buy us a portable blood pressure machine, we were overjoyed.

"We’re very grateful to her and for the extra boost to our patients’ care that this machine will provide."

Wetteland hospitalized at his own request

By Banzay on 17:13

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John Wetteland, the former closer who taught the Seattle Mariners bullpen about discipline and respect last season, has been hospitalized after police responded to a possible suicide attempt.
Here's a more detailed story, but the bottom line at this point is that Wetteland is unharmed.

The Mariners had no response to the initial stories, but are aware of the news and are following it closely.

"John's so full of energy and life, we're all just stunned," pitcher David Aardsma said. "We don't really know what happened, but the most important thing is he's OK.

"John is strong enough, mentally and physically, to deal with this. It's heartbreaking, and all of us are thinking about him and about his family."

Wetteland's eccentric, intense personality helped the Mariners bullpen form a tight bond in 2009, and he mentored first-time closer Aardsma from early in spring training.

"Every guy in the bullpen would hop on a plane today and fly to Texas to see him if he asked," Mark Lowe said. "I'm with Sean White, and we were trying on tuxedoes for his wedding on Saturday when we heard the news. The first thing I did was start praying for him.

"John's got a family that just adores him, and friends who'd do anything for him. He's strong, and he'll get through this, whatever it is."

A musician with a passion for rock music - and a collection of electric and accoustic guitars, which he often traveled with - is 43 and married with four children.

Wetteland hospitalized at his own request

By Banzay on 17:13

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John Wetteland, the former closer who taught the Seattle Mariners bullpen about discipline and respect last season, has been hospitalized after police responded to a possible suicide attempt.
Here's a more detailed story, but the bottom line at this point is that Wetteland is unharmed.

The Mariners had no response to the initial stories, but are aware of the news and are following it closely.

"John's so full of energy and life, we're all just stunned," pitcher David Aardsma said. "We don't really know what happened, but the most important thing is he's OK.

"John is strong enough, mentally and physically, to deal with this. It's heartbreaking, and all of us are thinking about him and about his family."

Wetteland's eccentric, intense personality helped the Mariners bullpen form a tight bond in 2009, and he mentored first-time closer Aardsma from early in spring training.

"Every guy in the bullpen would hop on a plane today and fly to Texas to see him if he asked," Mark Lowe said. "I'm with Sean White, and we were trying on tuxedoes for his wedding on Saturday when we heard the news. The first thing I did was start praying for him.

"John's got a family that just adores him, and friends who'd do anything for him. He's strong, and he'll get through this, whatever it is."

A musician with a passion for rock music - and a collection of electric and accoustic guitars, which he often traveled with - is 43 and married with four children.

Mike Tyson arrested after reported scuffle with photographer at airport

By Banzay on 06:38

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Trouble just seems to latch onto Mike Tyson like a magnet sticks to metal. Just when he was getting past the initial trauma of the death of his young daughter and mending fences with fellow boxer Evander Holyfield, Tyson was arrested at Los Angeles International Airport on Wednesday along with a photographer.

Both men were booked and released on suspicion of misdemeanor battery, the Associated Press is reporting. Photographer Tony Echevarria told police that Tyson struck him once. The photographer fell to the ground and was treated for a cut to his forehead at a hospital, AP says.

Tyson’s spokeswoman Tammy Brook told the AP the boxer was traveling with his wife and 10-month-old child when he was attacked by an overly aggressive paparazzo.
“Mike acted in self defense as a father protecting his child,” she said.
Time, legal proceedings and possibly surveillance tape will eventually sort this all out, but with the initial details, a few things come to mind for me.
Any 50-year-old photographer who would initiate an attack on the former heavyweight boxing champ of the world has to have a death wish.
After a few decades in the spotlight, hasn’t Tyson got a better plan for dealing with paparazzi than serving up a reported punch out?
Hello? Bodyguards? I’m sure Tyson can afford a few bucks to have a security person meet him at places where he knows he may be hassled and keep Tyson from feeling he has to deal with this stuff personally.
I wish Easton's own former champ Larry Holmes could give Tyson a bit of mentoring on how to live a more calm, family centered life.

Mike Tyson arrested after reported scuffle with photographer at airport

By Banzay on 06:38

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Trouble just seems to latch onto Mike Tyson like a magnet sticks to metal. Just when he was getting past the initial trauma of the death of his young daughter and mending fences with fellow boxer Evander Holyfield, Tyson was arrested at Los Angeles International Airport on Wednesday along with a photographer.

Both men were booked and released on suspicion of misdemeanor battery, the Associated Press is reporting. Photographer Tony Echevarria told police that Tyson struck him once. The photographer fell to the ground and was treated for a cut to his forehead at a hospital, AP says.

Tyson’s spokeswoman Tammy Brook told the AP the boxer was traveling with his wife and 10-month-old child when he was attacked by an overly aggressive paparazzo.
“Mike acted in self defense as a father protecting his child,” she said.
Time, legal proceedings and possibly surveillance tape will eventually sort this all out, but with the initial details, a few things come to mind for me.
Any 50-year-old photographer who would initiate an attack on the former heavyweight boxing champ of the world has to have a death wish.
After a few decades in the spotlight, hasn’t Tyson got a better plan for dealing with paparazzi than serving up a reported punch out?
Hello? Bodyguards? I’m sure Tyson can afford a few bucks to have a security person meet him at places where he knows he may be hassled and keep Tyson from feeling he has to deal with this stuff personally.
I wish Easton's own former champ Larry Holmes could give Tyson a bit of mentoring on how to live a more calm, family centered life.

Facing execution, killer to face family Tuesday on Oprah

By Banzay on 17:43

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MICHIGAN CITY --- A month from the day he is set to be executed at the Indiana State Prison, Matthew Eric Wrinkles will appear on national television, confronting the family of his victims and Oprah Winfrey.

Wrinkles, an Evansville man convicted in the 1994 murders of Debra Jean Wrinkles, 31; her brother, Mark "Tony" Fulkerson, 28; and Fulkerson's wife, Natalie "Chris" Fulkerson, 26, is to appear on "The Oprah Winfrey" show with relatives of the victims, including his two children, according to a preview on the Oprah.com Web site.

The show airs at 9 a.m. Tuesday on WLS- Channel 7.

The state Supreme Court upheld Wrinkles's conviction and death sentence, and he is scheduled to die by lethal injection in Michigan City on Dec. 11.

Wrinkles is scheduled to be the first Indiana inmate to be executed in two years, barring any last-minute appeals or a commutation of his sentence by Gov. Mitch Daniels.

The Wrinkles separated after years of marital strife, which took a deeply violent turn July 21, 1994, when Eric Wrinkles donned face paint and camouflage clothing went the the Fulkersons' home to seek out Debra Jean, who had moved in with the couples' two children.

Wrinkles cut the phone lines and kicked in the back door, then gunned down his three victims. The Fulkersons' 9-year-old daughter witnessed him shoot her parents, then Debra
Jean. Wrinkles has maintained his judgment was clouded by methamphetamine addiction.

Natalie Fulkerson's mother, described in media reports as a devoutly religious woman, has said she wants Wrinkles' sentence to be commuted to life in prison.

Wrinkles will interview with family members via satellite uplink from the prison.

Facing execution, killer to face family Tuesday on Oprah

By Banzay on 17:43

comm. (0)

Filed Under: ,


MICHIGAN CITY --- A month from the day he is set to be executed at the Indiana State Prison, Matthew Eric Wrinkles will appear on national television, confronting the family of his victims and Oprah Winfrey.

Wrinkles, an Evansville man convicted in the 1994 murders of Debra Jean Wrinkles, 31; her brother, Mark "Tony" Fulkerson, 28; and Fulkerson's wife, Natalie "Chris" Fulkerson, 26, is to appear on "The Oprah Winfrey" show with relatives of the victims, including his two children, according to a preview on the Oprah.com Web site.

The show airs at 9 a.m. Tuesday on WLS- Channel 7.

The state Supreme Court upheld Wrinkles's conviction and death sentence, and he is scheduled to die by lethal injection in Michigan City on Dec. 11.

Wrinkles is scheduled to be the first Indiana inmate to be executed in two years, barring any last-minute appeals or a commutation of his sentence by Gov. Mitch Daniels.

The Wrinkles separated after years of marital strife, which took a deeply violent turn July 21, 1994, when Eric Wrinkles donned face paint and camouflage clothing went the the Fulkersons' home to seek out Debra Jean, who had moved in with the couples' two children.

Wrinkles cut the phone lines and kicked in the back door, then gunned down his three victims. The Fulkersons' 9-year-old daughter witnessed him shoot her parents, then Debra
Jean. Wrinkles has maintained his judgment was clouded by methamphetamine addiction.

Natalie Fulkerson's mother, described in media reports as a devoutly religious woman, has said she wants Wrinkles' sentence to be commuted to life in prison.

Wrinkles will interview with family members via satellite uplink from the prison.

Assigned Reading: Jeremy Tyler's Rocky Overseas Trip

By Banzay on 17:54

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The New York Times's Pete Thamel has a great piece today on Jeremy Tyler who, in short, isn't doing very well.

Tyler has been playing abroad in Israel for three months now, after he de-committed from Louisville and skipped out on his senior season at San Diego High. Yeah, we thought the prom was pretty lame too.

The big man is quite homesick. So much so that even his girlfriend who followed him there, the daughter of late rapper Eazy-E, is sometimes left to wipe his tears away after a bad day at the gym.

It sounds sad, but I don't feel bad for Tyler. When it was initially reported he was doing the unthinkable by deciding to play overseas despite not even being old enough to buy a pack of Marlboro Reds, it was done with a dose of arrogance. Unfortunately that ego seems to still be part of his make up despite being humbled from his new environment, according to Thamel.

Tyler complained that Haifa had failed to fulfill promises. He said that the driver the team provided did not want to take him anywhere and that the apartment he was given was dim and sparse, with a hallway light that hung by a wire from the ceiling.

Yes, current Milwaukee Bucks guard Brandon Jennings appears to be assimilating himself nicely to the NBA game, so maybe Tyler will ultimately benefit from this experience in a way that no big time college program could offer. But as of now he just looks like a whiner and a whimp, and NBA scouts are likely taking note.

Assigned Reading: Jeremy Tyler's Rocky Overseas Trip

By Banzay on 17:54

comm. (0)

Filed Under: ,


The New York Times's Pete Thamel has a great piece today on Jeremy Tyler who, in short, isn't doing very well.

Tyler has been playing abroad in Israel for three months now, after he de-committed from Louisville and skipped out on his senior season at San Diego High. Yeah, we thought the prom was pretty lame too.

The big man is quite homesick. So much so that even his girlfriend who followed him there, the daughter of late rapper Eazy-E, is sometimes left to wipe his tears away after a bad day at the gym.

It sounds sad, but I don't feel bad for Tyler. When it was initially reported he was doing the unthinkable by deciding to play overseas despite not even being old enough to buy a pack of Marlboro Reds, it was done with a dose of arrogance. Unfortunately that ego seems to still be part of his make up despite being humbled from his new environment, according to Thamel.

Tyler complained that Haifa had failed to fulfill promises. He said that the driver the team provided did not want to take him anywhere and that the apartment he was given was dim and sparse, with a hallway light that hung by a wire from the ceiling.

Yes, current Milwaukee Bucks guard Brandon Jennings appears to be assimilating himself nicely to the NBA game, so maybe Tyler will ultimately benefit from this experience in a way that no big time college program could offer. But as of now he just looks like a whiner and a whimp, and NBA scouts are likely taking note.