Fashion Designer Anand Jon Alexander Faces Sentencing

Today is the day that fashion designer Anand Jon Alexander will learn his fate as he faces a possible life sentence for sexual assault. The disgraced fashion designer Anand Jon Alexander, who was convicted of 14 sex related crimes including forcible rape, could receive three consecutive 53 years to life sentences which is the maximum sentence under the law.

Anand Jon Alexander was convicted in November after a jury believed prosecutors who argued that the fashion designer would meet women online and lure them to his Beverly Hills apartment on the promise of modeling work and photo shoots only to sexually assault them once they got there. Anand Jon's victims ranged in age from 14 to 21.

In an interesting twist to the trial, Anand Jon Alexander's criminal defense lawyer's attempted to have the convictions thrown out on the grounds of jury tampering and misconduct. His lawyer argued that a juror sought to have a romantic relationship with the fashion designer's sister, Sanjana Alexander, during trial and even offered to help her Anand Jon.

Ultimately, the juror and Sanjana were held in contempt but the motion for a new trial was denied by the judge.

Today's sentencing is not the end of the line for the once famous fashion designer as Anand Jon Alexander is scheduled to be extradited to New York where he is under indictment for sexual assault of nine other women.

Fashion Designer Anand Jon Alexander Faces Sentencing

Today is the day that fashion designer Anand Jon Alexander will learn his fate as he faces a possible life sentence for sexual assault. The disgraced fashion designer Anand Jon Alexander, who was convicted of 14 sex related crimes including forcible rape, could receive three consecutive 53 years to life sentences which is the maximum sentence under the law.

Anand Jon Alexander was convicted in November after a jury believed prosecutors who argued that the fashion designer would meet women online and lure them to his Beverly Hills apartment on the promise of modeling work and photo shoots only to sexually assault them once they got there. Anand Jon's victims ranged in age from 14 to 21.

In an interesting twist to the trial, Anand Jon Alexander's criminal defense lawyer's attempted to have the convictions thrown out on the grounds of jury tampering and misconduct. His lawyer argued that a juror sought to have a romantic relationship with the fashion designer's sister, Sanjana Alexander, during trial and even offered to help her Anand Jon.

Ultimately, the juror and Sanjana were held in contempt but the motion for a new trial was denied by the judge.

Today's sentencing is not the end of the line for the once famous fashion designer as Anand Jon Alexander is scheduled to be extradited to New York where he is under indictment for sexual assault of nine other women.

AP source: Obama to give eulogy at Kennedy Mass
OAK BLUFFS, Mass. — A White House official says President Barack Obama will deliver a eulogy at Sen. Edward Kennedy's funeral Mass.
The funeral will take place Saturday at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Basilica — commonly known as the Mission Church — in the Mission Hill neighborhood of Boston. Kennedy will be buried the same day at Arlington National Cemetery near his slain brothers.
The White House official spoke with The Associated Press on Martha's Vineyard, the island resort south of Boston where the first family is vacationing. The official spoke on condition of anonymity because the Kennedy family had not yet made an announcement.

AP source: Obama to give eulogy at Kennedy Mass
OAK BLUFFS, Mass. — A White House official says President Barack Obama will deliver a eulogy at Sen. Edward Kennedy's funeral Mass.
The funeral will take place Saturday at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Basilica — commonly known as the Mission Church — in the Mission Hill neighborhood of Boston. Kennedy will be buried the same day at Arlington National Cemetery near his slain brothers.
The White House official spoke with The Associated Press on Martha's Vineyard, the island resort south of Boston where the first family is vacationing. The official spoke on condition of anonymity because the Kennedy family had not yet made an announcement.

Maia's sloppy standup leads to one-punch KO by Marquardt

Demian Maia's jiu-jitsu is world class but that's where it ends as far as "world class" mixed martial arts for the Brazilian. He found out what it's like to face a well-rounded fighter with 38 fights under his belt. During a short feeling out process, Maia threw two leg kicks then he tried a flying left knee and kept his chin exposed. Nate Marquardt unloaded a huge right. Maia spun around in the air and fell face first onto the ground. Marquardt jumped into to throw a few more shots on the grounded Maia (10-1, 5-1 UFC) but pulled his punch forcing referee Dave Hagan to step in and stop the fight at 0:21 of the first round.
On any other night, Marquardt would be due a fat check for Knockout of the Night. Unfortunately Todd Duffee recorded the fastest knockout in UFC history (seven seconds) earlier in the evening.
Marquardt (29-8-2) thanked god and the fans at the start of his conversation with UFC announcer Joe Rogan. Then he turned his attention to UFC middleweight champ Anderson Silva.
"I want that belt and I don't know who's going to get the next shot, but if you want someone who's going to kick Anderson Silva's butt, you're going to have to give that shot to me"
The crowd roared and when a shot of Silva went up on the big screen, he smiled and nodded, as if to say, "bring it on tough guy!"
Silva crushed Marquardt over two years ago back at UFC 73. Since then Marquardt has reeled off four wins in fight fights.

Maia's sloppy standup leads to one-punch KO by Marquardt

Demian Maia's jiu-jitsu is world class but that's where it ends as far as "world class" mixed martial arts for the Brazilian. He found out what it's like to face a well-rounded fighter with 38 fights under his belt. During a short feeling out process, Maia threw two leg kicks then he tried a flying left knee and kept his chin exposed. Nate Marquardt unloaded a huge right. Maia spun around in the air and fell face first onto the ground. Marquardt jumped into to throw a few more shots on the grounded Maia (10-1, 5-1 UFC) but pulled his punch forcing referee Dave Hagan to step in and stop the fight at 0:21 of the first round.
On any other night, Marquardt would be due a fat check for Knockout of the Night. Unfortunately Todd Duffee recorded the fastest knockout in UFC history (seven seconds) earlier in the evening.
Marquardt (29-8-2) thanked god and the fans at the start of his conversation with UFC announcer Joe Rogan. Then he turned his attention to UFC middleweight champ Anderson Silva.
"I want that belt and I don't know who's going to get the next shot, but if you want someone who's going to kick Anderson Silva's butt, you're going to have to give that shot to me"
The crowd roared and when a shot of Silva went up on the big screen, he smiled and nodded, as if to say, "bring it on tough guy!"
Silva crushed Marquardt over two years ago back at UFC 73. Since then Marquardt has reeled off four wins in fight fights.

Irish 'mentalist' Keith Barry performing in Kells next month
Magician Keith Barry is appearing in the Headfort Arms Hotel, Kells, on Saturday 12th September next. 'Keith Barry - Direct from Vegas' features the best of Barry's magic including material from his time in Las Vegas in 2008, plus a compilation of brand new never-been-seen before mind illusions, created especially for Irish audiences.
Since winning the coveted Merlin Award for 'Mentalist of the Year 2009', demand for Barry's performances has gone through the roof, resulting in many more dates being added all over Ireland in September stopping off at Headfort Arms in Kells on 12th September. The Merlin Award is to magic what the Oscar is to the movies and is judged by the members of the International Magicians Society. Previous winners include Penn and Teller, Paul Daniels, and David Copperfield.
Barry completed a month long residency as the newest 'Las Vegas Strip Headline Act' in Planet Hollywood Resort and Casino in October 2008. Celebrities who attended Barry's shows in Planet Hollywood include Jason Statham, Paris Hilton, Bette Midler, Sean Maguire, Mel B, and Charles Fleisher.
After starring in his own show 'Brainwashed' on MTV in the US, Barry is poised to become one of the select magician and illusionists to enjoy mainstream stardom in the USA. His talents range from sleight of hand effects (manipulating objects such as cards, coins) to mind control effects (metal bending, reading people's minds) to the 'beyond belief' (making it snow in Dublin, catching a bullet in his teeth and driving while blindfolded on a public road). The quick witted Irishman has also risen to fame in Europe following the success of his hit TV series, 'Close Encounters with Keith Barry'.
Barry started performing magic at the age of fourteen after purchasing a book entitled 'Magic for the complete Klutz' while on a school tour to Edinburgh. The first effect he learned from the book was the vanishing handkerchief and from that point onwards Barry knew what his destiny would be. He was working in the Kitchen Nightclub, owned by U2, where he attracted the attention of Eamonn Maguire who now manages Keith with Principle Management.

Irish 'mentalist' Keith Barry performing in Kells next month
Magician Keith Barry is appearing in the Headfort Arms Hotel, Kells, on Saturday 12th September next. 'Keith Barry - Direct from Vegas' features the best of Barry's magic including material from his time in Las Vegas in 2008, plus a compilation of brand new never-been-seen before mind illusions, created especially for Irish audiences.
Since winning the coveted Merlin Award for 'Mentalist of the Year 2009', demand for Barry's performances has gone through the roof, resulting in many more dates being added all over Ireland in September stopping off at Headfort Arms in Kells on 12th September. The Merlin Award is to magic what the Oscar is to the movies and is judged by the members of the International Magicians Society. Previous winners include Penn and Teller, Paul Daniels, and David Copperfield.
Barry completed a month long residency as the newest 'Las Vegas Strip Headline Act' in Planet Hollywood Resort and Casino in October 2008. Celebrities who attended Barry's shows in Planet Hollywood include Jason Statham, Paris Hilton, Bette Midler, Sean Maguire, Mel B, and Charles Fleisher.
After starring in his own show 'Brainwashed' on MTV in the US, Barry is poised to become one of the select magician and illusionists to enjoy mainstream stardom in the USA. His talents range from sleight of hand effects (manipulating objects such as cards, coins) to mind control effects (metal bending, reading people's minds) to the 'beyond belief' (making it snow in Dublin, catching a bullet in his teeth and driving while blindfolded on a public road). The quick witted Irishman has also risen to fame in Europe following the success of his hit TV series, 'Close Encounters with Keith Barry'.
Barry started performing magic at the age of fourteen after purchasing a book entitled 'Magic for the complete Klutz' while on a school tour to Edinburgh. The first effect he learned from the book was the vanishing handkerchief and from that point onwards Barry knew what his destiny would be. He was working in the Kitchen Nightclub, owned by U2, where he attracted the attention of Eamonn Maguire who now manages Keith with Principle Management.

Writer Dominick Dunne has died at 83
More death in the afternoon:

Writer Dominick Dunne has died, Vanity Fair is reporting. He was 83.

He died of bladder cancer today at home in Manhattan, said his son, actor-director Griffin Dunne.

Dunne was a best-selling author who also spent 25 years as a correspondent and editor with Vanity Fair. He covered some of the most celebrated figures and their legal travails.

Writer Dominick Dunne has died at 83
More death in the afternoon:

Writer Dominick Dunne has died, Vanity Fair is reporting. He was 83.

He died of bladder cancer today at home in Manhattan, said his son, actor-director Griffin Dunne.

Dunne was a best-selling author who also spent 25 years as a correspondent and editor with Vanity Fair. He covered some of the most celebrated figures and their legal travails.

Melanie Griffith back in rehab after strange color demands…


"Working Girl" star Melanie Griffith is in rehab again, her publicist confirmed to Star magazine.

Griffith, 52-year, checked into Utah's Cirque Lodge Rehab Facility, the previous temporary home of Lindsay Lohan and Kirsten Dunst.

While her publicist cited Griffith's "commitment to stay healthy" as the reason for her admission, FOXNews.com's Pop Tarts learned that she checked herself in part because husband Antonio Banderas, 49, would have no more of her erratic behavior.

One possible example? Someone who had recently worked with her told Pop Tarts that Griffith "had a multitude of crazy demands, including insisting everything around her, from the food to the flowers, be yellow."

So that would make her diet lemons, bananas, and ... what else, yellow squash?

We're not sure what the color scheme is at Cirque Lodge.

Tags: Antonio Banderas, Melanie Griffith

Melanie Griffith back in rehab after strange color demands…


"Working Girl" star Melanie Griffith is in rehab again, her publicist confirmed to Star magazine.

Griffith, 52-year, checked into Utah's Cirque Lodge Rehab Facility, the previous temporary home of Lindsay Lohan and Kirsten Dunst.

While her publicist cited Griffith's "commitment to stay healthy" as the reason for her admission, FOXNews.com's Pop Tarts learned that she checked herself in part because husband Antonio Banderas, 49, would have no more of her erratic behavior.

One possible example? Someone who had recently worked with her told Pop Tarts that Griffith "had a multitude of crazy demands, including insisting everything around her, from the food to the flowers, be yellow."

So that would make her diet lemons, bananas, and ... what else, yellow squash?

We're not sure what the color scheme is at Cirque Lodge.

Tags: Antonio Banderas, Melanie Griffith

Miss Venezuela Stefania Fernandez (Photo) Crowned Miss Universe 2009
18-year-old Miss
Venezuela Stefania Fernandez has been crowned Miss Universe 2009!
The new Miss Universe of 2009 is the beautiful Miss Venezuela Stefania Fernandez, who dazzled audiences in a beautiful red dress during the beauty pageant.

Stefania beat out Miss Dominican Republic, Ada Aimee De la Cruz, who was named the first runner-up in the beauty competition, second runner-up Miss Kosovo Gona Dragush and third runner-up Miss China Wang Jingyao.

Miss Venezuela Stefania Fernandez (Photo) Crowned Miss Universe 2009
18-year-old Miss
Venezuela Stefania Fernandez has been crowned Miss Universe 2009!
The new Miss Universe of 2009 is the beautiful Miss Venezuela Stefania Fernandez, who dazzled audiences in a beautiful red dress during the beauty pageant.

Stefania beat out Miss Dominican Republic, Ada Aimee De la Cruz, who was named the first runner-up in the beauty competition, second runner-up Miss Kosovo Gona Dragush and third runner-up Miss China Wang Jingyao.

Hot Property: Singer Natasha Bedingfield buys Los Feliz home for $2.3 million
British pop singer-songwriter Natasha Bedingfield has purchased a home in the Los Feliz area for $2.3 million.

The 4,792-square-foot contemporary has four bedrooms, 5 1/2 bathrooms, a media room, a gym and an office in three stories with city and mountain views. There is a detached guesthouse above the three-car garage and a swimming pool. The recently redone house was built in 1953.

Her new home was listed in January 2008 at $4,495,000 and was most recently priced at $2,495,000.

Hot Property: Singer Natasha Bedingfield buys Los Feliz home for $2.3 million
British pop singer-songwriter Natasha Bedingfield has purchased a home in the Los Feliz area for $2.3 million.

The 4,792-square-foot contemporary has four bedrooms, 5 1/2 bathrooms, a media room, a gym and an office in three stories with city and mountain views. There is a detached guesthouse above the three-car garage and a swimming pool. The recently redone house was built in 1953.

Her new home was listed in January 2008 at $4,495,000 and was most recently priced at $2,495,000.

Grand jury indicts Melissa Huckaby in killing of Sandra Cantu
STOCKTON — A San Joaquin County grand jury has returned a five-count indictment against Melissa Huckaby, accused of kidnapping, raping and killing 8-year-old Sandra Cantu, of Tracy.
The indictment, which will send the case to trial, was handed down July 31 but read in court for the first time Monday afternoon. Huckaby, in shackles and with several fresh scratches on her forehead, appeared with her attorney.
Huckaby, 28, was indicted on charges of murder with three special circumstances: kidnapping, lewd and lascivious acts on a child and rape with an instrument. The grand jury also added a charge of having sex with a child under 10 years old.
They also indicted the 28-year-old Tracy woman on one count of furnishing a harmful substance in the case of Daniel Plowman, of Hayward, and one count of furnishing a harmful substance and child abuse/endangerment in the case of another unnamed 7-year-old girl. Those counts are unrelated to Sandra's death.
Sandra's body was found April 6 in a black suitcase in an irrigation pond near the Orchard Estates Mobile Home Park, where the Huckaby and Cantu families live.
Huckaby was arrested April 10, four days after an intense search led to Sandra's body. Sandra was last seen March 27 at the mobile home park.
Judge Linda Lofthus ordered that Huckaby remain at San Joaquin County without bail
Deputy district attorney Thomas Testa asked for a jury trial date to be set, but Huckaby's
attorney Sam Behar said it was too early.
"We're not in any position to set a date," Behar said, adding that his client has not yet entered a plea.
Lofthus set the next court date for Sept. 10, giving Behar time to look at grand jury transcripts, which were described as voluminous. Lofthus also temporarily sealed the transcripts at Testa's request.
Testa told the judge Huckaby needed to be present at every hearing. He said he did not want Huckaby doing "something in the jail," he said. "Like she did this morning."
Testa said he was not at liberty to tell what had occurred — there is a judicial gag order in place on the case.
Lofthus said Huckaby will attend all her court appearances.
The case, for now, is being treated as a death penalty case, Testa said, but District Attorney James Willett will make a final decision in a month or two.
Huckaby was scheduled for a preliminary hearing in September, where a judge would have listened to testimony and decided if there was enough evidence for trial. Instead, the grand jury, which met in secret, heard that testimony

Grand jury indicts Melissa Huckaby in killing of Sandra Cantu
STOCKTON — A San Joaquin County grand jury has returned a five-count indictment against Melissa Huckaby, accused of kidnapping, raping and killing 8-year-old Sandra Cantu, of Tracy.
The indictment, which will send the case to trial, was handed down July 31 but read in court for the first time Monday afternoon. Huckaby, in shackles and with several fresh scratches on her forehead, appeared with her attorney.
Huckaby, 28, was indicted on charges of murder with three special circumstances: kidnapping, lewd and lascivious acts on a child and rape with an instrument. The grand jury also added a charge of having sex with a child under 10 years old.
They also indicted the 28-year-old Tracy woman on one count of furnishing a harmful substance in the case of Daniel Plowman, of Hayward, and one count of furnishing a harmful substance and child abuse/endangerment in the case of another unnamed 7-year-old girl. Those counts are unrelated to Sandra's death.
Sandra's body was found April 6 in a black suitcase in an irrigation pond near the Orchard Estates Mobile Home Park, where the Huckaby and Cantu families live.
Huckaby was arrested April 10, four days after an intense search led to Sandra's body. Sandra was last seen March 27 at the mobile home park.
Judge Linda Lofthus ordered that Huckaby remain at San Joaquin County without bail
Deputy district attorney Thomas Testa asked for a jury trial date to be set, but Huckaby's
attorney Sam Behar said it was too early.
"We're not in any position to set a date," Behar said, adding that his client has not yet entered a plea.
Lofthus set the next court date for Sept. 10, giving Behar time to look at grand jury transcripts, which were described as voluminous. Lofthus also temporarily sealed the transcripts at Testa's request.
Testa told the judge Huckaby needed to be present at every hearing. He said he did not want Huckaby doing "something in the jail," he said. "Like she did this morning."
Testa said he was not at liberty to tell what had occurred — there is a judicial gag order in place on the case.
Lofthus said Huckaby will attend all her court appearances.
The case, for now, is being treated as a death penalty case, Testa said, but District Attorney James Willett will make a final decision in a month or two.
Huckaby was scheduled for a preliminary hearing in September, where a judge would have listened to testimony and decided if there was enough evidence for trial. Instead, the grand jury, which met in secret, heard that testimony

Jessica Simpson Replaces Paula Abdul as American Idol Judge?
Jessica Simpson's dad is trying to get her installed as Paula Abdul's replacement on American Idol, according to reports in the US. Joe Simpson - Jessica's manager - is said to be pressuring producers to employ the pop star. He insists she would be perfect for the TV talent contest.
A source reports: "Jessica Simpson is being pushed to the producers by her father as the perfect replacement for Paula Abdul." Abdul, 47, announced she was leaving the show earlier this month. It comes as newly single Jessica, 29, got a Geisha makeover during a trip to Japan. She was recently dumped by American footballer boyfriend, Tony Romo.
More music...Security in a New York neighborhood has been stepped up ahead of a "secret" show by gangster rapper 50 Cent amid fears the gig will spark violent riots. Extra police are said to have been drafted in to work at the event, at a school in the Jamaica, Queens area, close to where the hip-hop star grew up. The rapper - real name Curtis Jackson - is expected to take the stage on August 30, as part of a Family Day celebration.

The event is expected to draw around 10,000 in the neighborhood, where 50 Cent was nearly fatally shot in 2000. But it has sparked concerns from local authorities, who have recruited an "army of cops" to shut down the area, fearing violence will break out if a gunman takes aim at Jackson. The paper claims "hundreds" of officers - including specially trained gang units - will be deployed. "We can't control the area," warned one law-enforcement source. Another source said: "Someone's going to try to make a name for themselves. "They're going to take a shot at him, and they're either going to hit him or they're going to miss him and hit some poor, innocent kid or grandmother." "There's concern because [50 Cent] has already been shot," another source said. "He has a lot of enemies and is very controversial."

Jessica Simpson Replaces Paula Abdul as American Idol Judge?
Jessica Simpson's dad is trying to get her installed as Paula Abdul's replacement on American Idol, according to reports in the US. Joe Simpson - Jessica's manager - is said to be pressuring producers to employ the pop star. He insists she would be perfect for the TV talent contest.
A source reports: "Jessica Simpson is being pushed to the producers by her father as the perfect replacement for Paula Abdul." Abdul, 47, announced she was leaving the show earlier this month. It comes as newly single Jessica, 29, got a Geisha makeover during a trip to Japan. She was recently dumped by American footballer boyfriend, Tony Romo.
More music...Security in a New York neighborhood has been stepped up ahead of a "secret" show by gangster rapper 50 Cent amid fears the gig will spark violent riots. Extra police are said to have been drafted in to work at the event, at a school in the Jamaica, Queens area, close to where the hip-hop star grew up. The rapper - real name Curtis Jackson - is expected to take the stage on August 30, as part of a Family Day celebration.

The event is expected to draw around 10,000 in the neighborhood, where 50 Cent was nearly fatally shot in 2000. But it has sparked concerns from local authorities, who have recruited an "army of cops" to shut down the area, fearing violence will break out if a gunman takes aim at Jackson. The paper claims "hundreds" of officers - including specially trained gang units - will be deployed. "We can't control the area," warned one law-enforcement source. Another source said: "Someone's going to try to make a name for themselves. "They're going to take a shot at him, and they're either going to hit him or they're going to miss him and hit some poor, innocent kid or grandmother." "There's concern because [50 Cent] has already been shot," another source said. "He has a lot of enemies and is very controversial."

'Dancing With the Stars' cast includes Tom DeLay
NEW YORK -- Former Republican Majority Leader Tom DeLay will join 15 celebrities from the worlds of entertainment and sports in kicking up their heels on the new season of "Dancing With the Stars.

Other hopefuls include entertainer Donny Osmond; singers Mya, Macy Gray and Aaron Carter; actors Melissa Joan Hart, Debi Mazar and Ashley Hamilton (son of George); models Joanna Krupa and Kathy Ireland; reality stars Kelly Osbourne and Mark Dacascos ("the Chairman" on Food Network's "Iron Chef America"); mixed martial artist Chuck Liddell; professional snowboarder Louie Vito; Olympic swimmer Natalie Coughlin; former Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Michael Irvin and the 62-year-old former congressman from Texas.

The contestants were announced on Monday's "Good Morning America" by "Dancing" host Tom Bergeron.

He also unveiled a new competitive twist.

"In the middle of our season, over three weeks, we're going to have double eliminations," said Bergeron. "We'll lose about half of our cast within that period. It will be a ballroom bloodbath."

Samantha Harris returns as co-host, with the panel of judges including ballroom judge Len Goodman and dancer-choreographers Bruno Tonioli and Carrie Ann Inaba.

The ninth season of the hit ABC show premieres Sept. 21.



Join the discussion

The Fort Worth Star-Telegram is pleased to provide this opportunity for you to share your thoughts and observations about news topics. We enjoy lively debate on the issues of the day, but we ask that you refrain from using profanity, racist or hate speech, making personal attacks, posting advertising or including remarks that are off topic. To post comments, you must be a registered user of Star-Telegram.com. Your username will show along with the comments you post. Thank you for taking the time to offer your thoughts.

'Dancing With the Stars' cast includes Tom DeLay
NEW YORK -- Former Republican Majority Leader Tom DeLay will join 15 celebrities from the worlds of entertainment and sports in kicking up their heels on the new season of "Dancing With the Stars.

Other hopefuls include entertainer Donny Osmond; singers Mya, Macy Gray and Aaron Carter; actors Melissa Joan Hart, Debi Mazar and Ashley Hamilton (son of George); models Joanna Krupa and Kathy Ireland; reality stars Kelly Osbourne and Mark Dacascos ("the Chairman" on Food Network's "Iron Chef America"); mixed martial artist Chuck Liddell; professional snowboarder Louie Vito; Olympic swimmer Natalie Coughlin; former Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Michael Irvin and the 62-year-old former congressman from Texas.

The contestants were announced on Monday's "Good Morning America" by "Dancing" host Tom Bergeron.

He also unveiled a new competitive twist.

"In the middle of our season, over three weeks, we're going to have double eliminations," said Bergeron. "We'll lose about half of our cast within that period. It will be a ballroom bloodbath."

Samantha Harris returns as co-host, with the panel of judges including ballroom judge Len Goodman and dancer-choreographers Bruno Tonioli and Carrie Ann Inaba.

The ninth season of the hit ABC show premieres Sept. 21.



Join the discussion

The Fort Worth Star-Telegram is pleased to provide this opportunity for you to share your thoughts and observations about news topics. We enjoy lively debate on the issues of the day, but we ask that you refrain from using profanity, racist or hate speech, making personal attacks, posting advertising or including remarks that are off topic. To post comments, you must be a registered user of Star-Telegram.com. Your username will show along with the comments you post. Thank you for taking the time to offer your thoughts.

Alyssa Milano marries David Bugliari in New Jersey
Actress Alyssa Milano is now a married woman. Milano married talent agent David Bugliari Saturday (8/15) at his family's estate in New Jersey.
Bugliari asked Milano to marry him in December with a ring he designed which was made by Jim Lavi at Daniel Jewelry in La Jolla, California.
Milano walked down an aisle sprinkled with cream colored rose pedals to John Lennon's "Imagine". According to People she wore a custom gown designed by Vera Wang and carried a bouquet of lily of the valley flowers.
The ceremony took place outside with the vows being taken under a gazebo decorated with roses, willows and calla lilies.
The couple wanted their informal reception to be reminiscent of family’s Sunday dinners. The couple and their guests dined in a tent on farmhouse tables under wrought iron chandeliers. "We wanted to capture the same feeling with people passing around beautiful bowls of food and talking and laughing," Milano told People.

Alyssa Milano marries David Bugliari in New Jersey
Actress Alyssa Milano is now a married woman. Milano married talent agent David Bugliari Saturday (8/15) at his family's estate in New Jersey.
Bugliari asked Milano to marry him in December with a ring he designed which was made by Jim Lavi at Daniel Jewelry in La Jolla, California.
Milano walked down an aisle sprinkled with cream colored rose pedals to John Lennon's "Imagine". According to People she wore a custom gown designed by Vera Wang and carried a bouquet of lily of the valley flowers.
The ceremony took place outside with the vows being taken under a gazebo decorated with roses, willows and calla lilies.
The couple wanted their informal reception to be reminiscent of family’s Sunday dinners. The couple and their guests dined in a tent on farmhouse tables under wrought iron chandeliers. "We wanted to capture the same feeling with people passing around beautiful bowls of food and talking and laughing," Milano told People.

Merlyn Mantle, 77; widow of Yankees great
NEW YORK - Merlyn Mantle, who for 43 years lived through the glory and the tumult of being married to the New York Yankees slugger Mickey Mantle, died of Alzheimer’s disease Monday in Plano, Texas. She was 77.
A native of Cardin, Okla., she met Mantle in 1949, when he was a star player at Commerce (Okla.) High School and she was a cheerleader at archrival Picher High School.

“I developed an instant crush on Mickey Mantle, and by our second or third date, I was in love with him and always would be,’’ Mrs. Mantle wrote in a 1996 memoir, “A Hero All His Life.’’

The Mantles married in 1951, after his rookie year with the Yankees. For 18 seasons, Mantle symbolized athletic brilliance as perhaps the greatest switch-hitter in baseball history and led the Yankees to seven World Series championships. His injuries, and the pain he played through, only enhanced the heroic stature of the Hall of Famer.

It was only after Mantle’s career ended that the world learned of his drinking and womanizing. The drinking escalated in retirement as he struggled with what to do with himself.

“It took me a long time to admit Mick was an alcoholic,’’ Mrs. Mantle told The New York Times in 2001. She, too, became an alcoholic.

Cancer took its toll on the family. One of the Mantles’ four sons, Billy, had Hodgkin’s lymphoma for half his life and died of a heart attack in 1994 at age 36. Another son, Mickey Jr., died of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma in 2000, at 47.

Mickey Mantle died of cancer on Aug. 13, 1995, two months after receiving a liver transplant.

Merlyn and Mickey Mantle were separated for the last six years of their marriage. Mrs. Mantle lived in a condominium in Dallas that remained a shrine to her husband. Its walls were lined with photographs of him; a display case held three most valuable player trophies

Merlyn Mantle, 77; widow of Yankees great
NEW YORK - Merlyn Mantle, who for 43 years lived through the glory and the tumult of being married to the New York Yankees slugger Mickey Mantle, died of Alzheimer’s disease Monday in Plano, Texas. She was 77.
A native of Cardin, Okla., she met Mantle in 1949, when he was a star player at Commerce (Okla.) High School and she was a cheerleader at archrival Picher High School.

“I developed an instant crush on Mickey Mantle, and by our second or third date, I was in love with him and always would be,’’ Mrs. Mantle wrote in a 1996 memoir, “A Hero All His Life.’’

The Mantles married in 1951, after his rookie year with the Yankees. For 18 seasons, Mantle symbolized athletic brilliance as perhaps the greatest switch-hitter in baseball history and led the Yankees to seven World Series championships. His injuries, and the pain he played through, only enhanced the heroic stature of the Hall of Famer.

It was only after Mantle’s career ended that the world learned of his drinking and womanizing. The drinking escalated in retirement as he struggled with what to do with himself.

“It took me a long time to admit Mick was an alcoholic,’’ Mrs. Mantle told The New York Times in 2001. She, too, became an alcoholic.

Cancer took its toll on the family. One of the Mantles’ four sons, Billy, had Hodgkin’s lymphoma for half his life and died of a heart attack in 1994 at age 36. Another son, Mickey Jr., died of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma in 2000, at 47.

Mickey Mantle died of cancer on Aug. 13, 1995, two months after receiving a liver transplant.

Merlyn and Mickey Mantle were separated for the last six years of their marriage. Mrs. Mantle lived in a condominium in Dallas that remained a shrine to her husband. Its walls were lined with photographs of him; a display case held three most valuable player trophies

Anna Faris marries Chris Pratt in private ceremony
Actress Anna Faris (Scary Movie, House Bunny) has tied the knot with Chris Pratt, US Weekly is confirming.
Although we're just learning of the nuptials, the wedding news is apparently old news.
Faris and Pratt wed in a "small ceremony" on July 9th in Bali, according to representatives for Faris.
Faris and Pratt, who have been engaged since last year, initially hinted at eloping.
Faris, in fact, told E! that she was all "over the place" with the wedding plans.
"We keep playing with different ideas, like maybe something really, really small, eloping, or a big wedding."
But at the end of the day, Faris kept it all in perspective.
"I feel so lucky that the person I want to be around most, I get to be around most."
Good luck to the happy couple!

Anna Faris marries Chris Pratt in private ceremony
Actress Anna Faris (Scary Movie, House Bunny) has tied the knot with Chris Pratt, US Weekly is confirming.
Although we're just learning of the nuptials, the wedding news is apparently old news.
Faris and Pratt wed in a "small ceremony" on July 9th in Bali, according to representatives for Faris.
Faris and Pratt, who have been engaged since last year, initially hinted at eloping.
Faris, in fact, told E! that she was all "over the place" with the wedding plans.
"We keep playing with different ideas, like maybe something really, really small, eloping, or a big wedding."
But at the end of the day, Faris kept it all in perspective.
"I feel so lucky that the person I want to be around most, I get to be around most."
Good luck to the happy couple!

Rick Pitino: adultery, abortion, and extortion hurts wife, family
We are hearing words of sympathy for Coach Pitino, his wife, Joanne, and his family. And we should. But our hearts must ache for Joanne Pitino who joins the ranks of wives and mothers tarnished by adultery.
The story of adultery is becoming all too common -- an indiscreet move on the part of their husbands' leaves the families vulnerable. In the world of politics it was Elizabeth Edwards and more recently Jenny Sanford. Love and marriage gone awry.
But what is happening with the Pitino family as a result of the allegations and accusations is reaching disturbing proportions. (See photo at end of the woman who has accused Pitino.)
As the story unfolds, it seems that Coach Rick Pitino, of the University of Louisville, had an apparent consensual sexual liaison. When the woman announced she was pregnant he gave her money for an abortion. But it is alleged that extortion demands escalated.
What is so sad about this case is the number of people involved and hurt – families, a team, a school. Pitino has a wife and five children. It's a mess really for a team that often travels with Pitino's close friend, a Catholic priest.
Statements from U of L: According to USA Today: “U of L Athletic Director Tom Jurich said in a statement Tuesday that ‘Coach Pitino has been truthful with us about this matter all along and we stand by him and his family during this process.’ University President James Ramsey released a statement Tuesday night saying: ‘Several months ago Coach Pitino informed me about the alleged extortion attempt. I've now been informed that there may be other details which, if true, I find surprising. My thoughts are with Coach Pitino and his family. .’" USA Today.com/sports/college/mensbasketball
According to an AP story: "Pitino is Catholic and brings along close friend and spiritual adviser, the Rev. Edward Bradley - a priest in Henderson, Ky. - on many team trips. Bradley often prays with the team before games and is a fixture near the Louisville bench.
"There was no answer late Tuesday at the priest's office where he also lives. " Canadian press/
Catholic priest comment: Did someone really think a Catholic priest would comment? The Ten Commandments are quite clear on this one -- Thou Shalt Not Commit Adultery.
But the New Testament also notes, "Let he who is not guilty cast the first stone."
With all the infidelity going around these days, there may not be a lot of stones left to be cast.

Rick Pitino: adultery, abortion, and extortion hurts wife, family
We are hearing words of sympathy for Coach Pitino, his wife, Joanne, and his family. And we should. But our hearts must ache for Joanne Pitino who joins the ranks of wives and mothers tarnished by adultery.
The story of adultery is becoming all too common -- an indiscreet move on the part of their husbands' leaves the families vulnerable. In the world of politics it was Elizabeth Edwards and more recently Jenny Sanford. Love and marriage gone awry.
But what is happening with the Pitino family as a result of the allegations and accusations is reaching disturbing proportions. (See photo at end of the woman who has accused Pitino.)
As the story unfolds, it seems that Coach Rick Pitino, of the University of Louisville, had an apparent consensual sexual liaison. When the woman announced she was pregnant he gave her money for an abortion. But it is alleged that extortion demands escalated.
What is so sad about this case is the number of people involved and hurt – families, a team, a school. Pitino has a wife and five children. It's a mess really for a team that often travels with Pitino's close friend, a Catholic priest.
Statements from U of L: According to USA Today: “U of L Athletic Director Tom Jurich said in a statement Tuesday that ‘Coach Pitino has been truthful with us about this matter all along and we stand by him and his family during this process.’ University President James Ramsey released a statement Tuesday night saying: ‘Several months ago Coach Pitino informed me about the alleged extortion attempt. I've now been informed that there may be other details which, if true, I find surprising. My thoughts are with Coach Pitino and his family. .’" USA Today.com/sports/college/mensbasketball
According to an AP story: "Pitino is Catholic and brings along close friend and spiritual adviser, the Rev. Edward Bradley - a priest in Henderson, Ky. - on many team trips. Bradley often prays with the team before games and is a fixture near the Louisville bench.
"There was no answer late Tuesday at the priest's office where he also lives. " Canadian press/
Catholic priest comment: Did someone really think a Catholic priest would comment? The Ten Commandments are quite clear on this one -- Thou Shalt Not Commit Adultery.
But the New Testament also notes, "Let he who is not guilty cast the first stone."
With all the infidelity going around these days, there may not be a lot of stones left to be cast.

Lady Gaga Hermaphrodite Proof – Muffin or Disco Stick?
he latest Lady Gaga rumor is that she is actually man. There are alleged quotes from the singer floating around online that she used to have a disco stick But is there hard proof that the Lady is a hermaphrodite? She may lie about wanting men with her Poker Face, but when it comes to being a woman, she’s not bluffin' with her muffin. The Lady Gaga-is-a-hermaphrodite rumors are lies! So who made these up? They’re called haters, people!!! A lot of jealous people out there can’t handle the fact that Lady Gaga isn’t the typical beautiful pop star. She’s better! She’s an individual style that is all her own style and her music speaks for itself.

This isn't the first time a pop star has been accused of being a hermaphrodite. Years ago, R&B singer Ciara was the victim of these types of lies.

Embarrassing! Don't you think?

Lady Gaga Hermaphrodite Proof – Muffin or Disco Stick?
he latest Lady Gaga rumor is that she is actually man. There are alleged quotes from the singer floating around online that she used to have a disco stick But is there hard proof that the Lady is a hermaphrodite? She may lie about wanting men with her Poker Face, but when it comes to being a woman, she’s not bluffin' with her muffin. The Lady Gaga-is-a-hermaphrodite rumors are lies! So who made these up? They’re called haters, people!!! A lot of jealous people out there can’t handle the fact that Lady Gaga isn’t the typical beautiful pop star. She’s better! She’s an individual style that is all her own style and her music speaks for itself.

This isn't the first time a pop star has been accused of being a hermaphrodite. Years ago, R&B singer Ciara was the victim of these types of lies.

Embarrassing! Don't you think?

Kyra Sedgwick Teary About Work-Family Divide

Kyra Sedgwick may feel less overwhelmed by her Los Angeles-based acting work these days, but that doesn't make her any less homesick for husband Kevin Bacon and the rest of her family in New York.

"I remember the first few years it was like I was in an ocean and constantly getting tumbled over. I thought I was going to drown," Sedgwick, 43, tells September's Ladies' Home Journal about her work since 2005 on the TNT drama The Closer, for which she is again nominated for an outstanding actress in a drama series Emmy.

"It's not like that anymore ... but the homesickness – missing the kids, missing those life moments – that gets harder and harder." Welling up, she adds: "I'm just a teary mess about that part of it."

Sedgwick has long been conflicted about the arrangement – six months in L.A. each year, away from her husband of 20 years and their children: son Travis, 20, and daughter Sosie, 17. The upside, of course, is her own professional success and satisfaction. But she also sees silver linings in the family dynamic.

"My primary relationship was always with my mother, and I think it's that way for most girls," she says. "This [bicoastal living] has forced a situation where my daughter is having a great relationship with her father. It's beautiful to see."

Sedgwick revisits another familiar theme in the interview: how she managed to have the wherewithal to commit to Bacon, who turned out to be her soulmate, when she was just barely out of her teens – particularly given her own broken home.

"I don't know how at 22 I went, 'Yeah, that's the guy,' and was actually right about it," she says. "Usually you pick someone who has all the worst qualities of your father or something. Someone was watching over me when I picked Kevin, because I couldn't have been that smart."

Kyra Sedgwick Teary About Work-Family Divide

Kyra Sedgwick may feel less overwhelmed by her Los Angeles-based acting work these days, but that doesn't make her any less homesick for husband Kevin Bacon and the rest of her family in New York.

"I remember the first few years it was like I was in an ocean and constantly getting tumbled over. I thought I was going to drown," Sedgwick, 43, tells September's Ladies' Home Journal about her work since 2005 on the TNT drama The Closer, for which she is again nominated for an outstanding actress in a drama series Emmy.

"It's not like that anymore ... but the homesickness – missing the kids, missing those life moments – that gets harder and harder." Welling up, she adds: "I'm just a teary mess about that part of it."

Sedgwick has long been conflicted about the arrangement – six months in L.A. each year, away from her husband of 20 years and their children: son Travis, 20, and daughter Sosie, 17. The upside, of course, is her own professional success and satisfaction. But she also sees silver linings in the family dynamic.

"My primary relationship was always with my mother, and I think it's that way for most girls," she says. "This [bicoastal living] has forced a situation where my daughter is having a great relationship with her father. It's beautiful to see."

Sedgwick revisits another familiar theme in the interview: how she managed to have the wherewithal to commit to Bacon, who turned out to be her soulmate, when she was just barely out of her teens – particularly given her own broken home.

"I don't know how at 22 I went, 'Yeah, that's the guy,' and was actually right about it," she says. "Usually you pick someone who has all the worst qualities of your father or something. Someone was watching over me when I picked Kevin, because I couldn't have been that smart."

Greg Giraldo gets mean and funny at Joan Rivers Roast
Stand-up comedian and friend of The Howard Stern Show Greg Giraldo “killed” at the Comedy Central Joan Rivers Roast which aired on Sunday night. While most of the contemporaries that Joan Rivers might consider worthy of roasting her are,…well,…DEAD, the burden of “the funny” for the Comedy Central Roast of Joan Rivers fell to the next generation of comics. Greg Giraldo took up the valiantly.
The frequent Howard Stern Show started out his set by dubbing Roastmaster Kathy Griffin “Tranny Bonaduce” and added “You’ve been stitched up thousands of times but you’re still sad to look at. You’re like the AIDS quilt.”
Then Greg Giraldo took aim at Howard Stern Show co-host Robin Quivers.
“Robin? You look like a syrup bottle…You’re like Aunt Vagina.”
Believe it or not, that last quote from Greg Giraldo was edited and made CLEANER.
Greg Giraldo saved his keenest insults for the guest of honor Joan Rivers herself.
“You are one irritating Jew broad,” stated Giraldo looking over his shoulder at Joan Rivers. “The first time I heard your voice my foreskin fell off.”
Greg Giraldo then proceeded to imply that Joan Rivers looked like the offspring resulting from the copulation of Aerosmith lead singer Steven Tyler,…and a life raft.
“How much worse could your real face look than that clown face you’ve had welded onto your head?” marveled Giraldo before stepping down.

Greg Giraldo gets mean and funny at Joan Rivers Roast
Stand-up comedian and friend of The Howard Stern Show Greg Giraldo “killed” at the Comedy Central Joan Rivers Roast which aired on Sunday night. While most of the contemporaries that Joan Rivers might consider worthy of roasting her are,…well,…DEAD, the burden of “the funny” for the Comedy Central Roast of Joan Rivers fell to the next generation of comics. Greg Giraldo took up the valiantly.
The frequent Howard Stern Show started out his set by dubbing Roastmaster Kathy Griffin “Tranny Bonaduce” and added “You’ve been stitched up thousands of times but you’re still sad to look at. You’re like the AIDS quilt.”
Then Greg Giraldo took aim at Howard Stern Show co-host Robin Quivers.
“Robin? You look like a syrup bottle…You’re like Aunt Vagina.”
Believe it or not, that last quote from Greg Giraldo was edited and made CLEANER.
Greg Giraldo saved his keenest insults for the guest of honor Joan Rivers herself.
“You are one irritating Jew broad,” stated Giraldo looking over his shoulder at Joan Rivers. “The first time I heard your voice my foreskin fell off.”
Greg Giraldo then proceeded to imply that Joan Rivers looked like the offspring resulting from the copulation of Aerosmith lead singer Steven Tyler,…and a life raft.
“How much worse could your real face look than that clown face you’ve had welded onto your head?” marveled Giraldo before stepping down.

Steven Tyler Dead - Is He Really?

There's a rumor going around that Steven Tyler is dead from the fall off stage he took on Wednesday night at a performance in Sturgis, South Dakota. Tyler fell during Aerosmith's performance of "Love In an Elevator" and was taken to the emergency room for injuries to his head and neck. As of yesterday, details of how serious those injuries were were not released and now there's a rumor circling that he's dead. Is it true?

NO. He is not dead. The world of Rock'n'Roll can rest easy. He didn't walk away without any injuries though. He broke his shoulder and bled profusely on the way to the hospital. The band had to postpone tonigh'ts concert in Winnepeg, Canada.

I don't know why these rumors start but they're scary when you first hear them. After losing one of the world's best performers just a month ago in Michael Jackson, I don't think we're ready to lose another one!

Like what you read in this article? Then join Gather today!

Steven Tyler Dead - Is He Really?

There's a rumor going around that Steven Tyler is dead from the fall off stage he took on Wednesday night at a performance in Sturgis, South Dakota. Tyler fell during Aerosmith's performance of "Love In an Elevator" and was taken to the emergency room for injuries to his head and neck. As of yesterday, details of how serious those injuries were were not released and now there's a rumor circling that he's dead. Is it true?

NO. He is not dead. The world of Rock'n'Roll can rest easy. He didn't walk away without any injuries though. He broke his shoulder and bled profusely on the way to the hospital. The band had to postpone tonigh'ts concert in Winnepeg, Canada.

I don't know why these rumors start but they're scary when you first hear them. After losing one of the world's best performers just a month ago in Michael Jackson, I don't think we're ready to lose another one!

Like what you read in this article? Then join Gather today!

Kurt Rambis heading to Minnesota?
According to the Times' own Mike Bresnahan and Broderick Turner, that appears to be the case. Rambis flew to Minneapolis for what would constitute the third meeting between Clark Kent and the Wolves brass. And given how this franchise is in serious "trimming the fat" mode when it comes to allocated dollars, I understand why Brez and BT figure los Lobos didn't jet Rambis into town simply to show him around Mall of America. If his potential departure made your "Worry List," probably time to start chomping on the ol' finger nails.

Should this deal go down, I think the Wolves landed themselves a good and sensible hire. Rambis did, in my opinion, a solid closing out a chaotic '99 season after Del Harris was fired, acquitting himself about as well as could be expected from a rookie coach inheriting a talented but dysfunctional crew. From there, he's gone on to become respected and well-regarded (from everything I've ever read or understood) around the league as an important member of the Laker staff.

Yes, Rambis would be taking over a lousy team, but they're a lousy team with two good pieces (Al Jefferson, Kevin Love), a few youngsters with potential (Jonny Flynn, a healthy Corey Brewer, Ricky Rubio?) and high draft picks certain to come. And since there's no pressure to win right away, the powers that be can afford to take a patient look at Rambis.

Plus, Rambis might get to sign off on a Quentin Richardson trade, which is apparently a lot of fun, since everyone's doing it this offseason!!!
In the meantime, the Lakers will have an easier time, should they choose to do so, transitioning Brian Shaw as the next head coach not named "Phil" or "Jackson." It's a role I've long felt Shaw was being groomed for- I actually thought Shaw would be the guy taking over for Frank Hamblen before PJ shocked the world with his return- and like Rambis in Minnesota, I think the former three-peat member would be a great call. He's young enough to remember what it's like being a player, but far enough removed from active duty to reek of "coach." He communicates well and has a very good way with people. Plus, he's got the everlasting respect of Kobe Bryant, and I'll go out on a limb and predict the brain trusts want a dude with 24's stamp of approval. Obviously, if Jackson stays on longer than expected, the front runner to succeed him may change with that development. But for now, like BK mentioned last week, I think Shaw could be in ownership of the proverbial "cat bird seat."

Also, as an unrelated FYI. The Press-Enterprise's Jeffrey Eisenberg reported earlier today that Sasha Vujacic suffered a left knee injury while working with the Slovenian National Team. It didn't sound too serious at the time, and the latest update has The Machine practicing with the team again. Hopefully, we're back to biz as usual.



Photo: Kurt Rambis. Credit: Ronald Martinez/Getty Images North America

Kurt Rambis heading to Minnesota?
According to the Times' own Mike Bresnahan and Broderick Turner, that appears to be the case. Rambis flew to Minneapolis for what would constitute the third meeting between Clark Kent and the Wolves brass. And given how this franchise is in serious "trimming the fat" mode when it comes to allocated dollars, I understand why Brez and BT figure los Lobos didn't jet Rambis into town simply to show him around Mall of America. If his potential departure made your "Worry List," probably time to start chomping on the ol' finger nails.

Should this deal go down, I think the Wolves landed themselves a good and sensible hire. Rambis did, in my opinion, a solid closing out a chaotic '99 season after Del Harris was fired, acquitting himself about as well as could be expected from a rookie coach inheriting a talented but dysfunctional crew. From there, he's gone on to become respected and well-regarded (from everything I've ever read or understood) around the league as an important member of the Laker staff.

Yes, Rambis would be taking over a lousy team, but they're a lousy team with two good pieces (Al Jefferson, Kevin Love), a few youngsters with potential (Jonny Flynn, a healthy Corey Brewer, Ricky Rubio?) and high draft picks certain to come. And since there's no pressure to win right away, the powers that be can afford to take a patient look at Rambis.

Plus, Rambis might get to sign off on a Quentin Richardson trade, which is apparently a lot of fun, since everyone's doing it this offseason!!!
In the meantime, the Lakers will have an easier time, should they choose to do so, transitioning Brian Shaw as the next head coach not named "Phil" or "Jackson." It's a role I've long felt Shaw was being groomed for- I actually thought Shaw would be the guy taking over for Frank Hamblen before PJ shocked the world with his return- and like Rambis in Minnesota, I think the former three-peat member would be a great call. He's young enough to remember what it's like being a player, but far enough removed from active duty to reek of "coach." He communicates well and has a very good way with people. Plus, he's got the everlasting respect of Kobe Bryant, and I'll go out on a limb and predict the brain trusts want a dude with 24's stamp of approval. Obviously, if Jackson stays on longer than expected, the front runner to succeed him may change with that development. But for now, like BK mentioned last week, I think Shaw could be in ownership of the proverbial "cat bird seat."

Also, as an unrelated FYI. The Press-Enterprise's Jeffrey Eisenberg reported earlier today that Sasha Vujacic suffered a left knee injury while working with the Slovenian National Team. It didn't sound too serious at the time, and the latest update has The Machine practicing with the team again. Hopefully, we're back to biz as usual.



Photo: Kurt Rambis. Credit: Ronald Martinez/Getty Images North America

Paula Abdul Won't Return to American Idol

The blogosphere is agog with the news that veteran judge Paula Abdul will not be returning to " American Idol" next season. Abdul broke the news to her fans via her Twitter account. Here's the text of her message in full:

"With sadness in my heart, I've decided not to return to #IDOL. I'll miss nurturing all the new talent, but most of all ...being a part of a show that I helped from day1become an international phenomenon ... What I want to say most, is how much I appreciate the undying support and enormous love that you have showered upon me ... It truly has been breathtaking, especially over the past month ... I do without any doubt have the BEST fans in the entire world and I love you all."


This comes on the heels of the news, announced on August 3, that controversial new judge Kara DioGuardi would be returning to the series. DioGuardi's presence at the judging table has divided the Idol fandom.

Paula Abdul Won't Return to American Idol

The blogosphere is agog with the news that veteran judge Paula Abdul will not be returning to " American Idol" next season. Abdul broke the news to her fans via her Twitter account. Here's the text of her message in full:

"With sadness in my heart, I've decided not to return to #IDOL. I'll miss nurturing all the new talent, but most of all ...being a part of a show that I helped from day1become an international phenomenon ... What I want to say most, is how much I appreciate the undying support and enormous love that you have showered upon me ... It truly has been breathtaking, especially over the past month ... I do without any doubt have the BEST fans in the entire world and I love you all."


This comes on the heels of the news, announced on August 3, that controversial new judge Kara DioGuardi would be returning to the series. DioGuardi's presence at the judging table has divided the Idol fandom.

Chuck Todd And Glenn Greenwald Debate Torture And The Media

Chuck Todd And Glenn Greenwald Debate Torture And The Media

Nora Ephron on 'Julie & Julia'