December 27, 2006

NASCAR Update:
Daytona testing has been released:
January 8-10: Nextel Cup Testing (Group A)
January 9: Fan Fest Nextel Cup
January 12-14: Craftsman Truck Series Testing (All Trucks)
January 13: Fan Fest Truck Series
January 15-17: Nextel Cup Testing (Group B)
January 16: Fan Fest Nextel Cup
January 19-23: Busch Series Testing (Groups A & B)
January 20 & 21: Fan Fest Busch Series

The Rolex 24 testing will include a bunch of former and current Champions. Last years winners and former IRL Champions, Scott Dixon and Dan Wheldon will be joined by Scott Pruett in a two car Ganassi operation. Four time Cup Champion, Jeff Gordon will join Max Angelelli and Wayne Taylor in the #10 SunTrust Pontiac Riley. Current Nextel Cup Champion, Jimmie Johnson will test the #91 Lowe’s Riley-Matthews Motorsports Pontiac despite a broken wrist. Two time Nextel Cup Champion, Triple Crown winner, current IROC Champ and former IRL Champion Tony Stewart, Andy Wallace and Butch Leitzinger will be in the #20 Howard Boss Motorsports Pontiac Crawford. Three time (current) IRL Champion, Sam Hornish, Jr. and Helio Castroneves are entered in the #60 Michael Shark Racing Lexus Riley. For a complete list head over to msn.foxsports.com/nascar/story/6307522

Giants Update:
Offensive Coordinator John Hufnagel has been relieved of his play calling duties and has been replaced by Quarterbacks Coach Kevin Gilbride.

Michael Straham was placed on Injured Reserve after re-injuring his foot during Sunday’s loss to the New Orleans Saints.

Around Sports:
Baseball
Shea Hillenbrand has signed a one year, $6.5 million contract with the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim.

Basketball
Allen Iverson scored 28 points and had 13 assists in his first win with the Denver Nuggets.

Around the World:
British Prime Minister Tony Blair’s flight to Miami had a bit of an exciting ending when the plane “missed a turn…and struck runway lights.” No one on the plane was injured. Blair and his family were heading to former Bee Gee, Barry Gibb’s home in Florida. I would say the most surprising fact of this story is that Tony Blair is friends with Barry Gibb. How did they meet? How long have they been friends? Do they sing “How Deep is Your Love” or “Staying Alive”? Or do they prefer to do other songs? This is so cool! (CNN)

New Yorkers are resilient; we learned that after September 11th. They are also hard working and willing to pay a lot of money to live in walk in closets. But for 1.2 million New Yorkers, the cost to live in one of the world’s greatest cities is too much. These 1.2 million people cannot afford to pay for rent and food, so they rely on charities to provide them with food. Of the 1.9 million children living in the five boroughs, 40% of their families have difficulty affording food, making free lunch programs imperative for their survival. After Wall Street saw the largest sum of bonuses top out at $24 billion, it is easy to forget about those less fortunate. (Reuters)

Popo in my crib News:
Yeah there are days that I don’t feel like going to work. For example yesterday…I mean everyone one was off and we had a big Christmas party at my house the day before and it was really hard for me to roll out of bed. But for a 21 year old German girl, calling in sick was not a good enough excuse. She instead text messaged her family that she had been kidnapped. When she turned up the next day, the 21 year old claimed she had been set free. After being questioned, she admitted she had made the whole thing up. She now faces a fine of 1000 Euros. Watch out moron, because the popo are on your tail! (Reuters)

Patrick Allain, 35, who was pulled over by police for alleged drunken driving did not want to let a beer go to waste so he continued to drink it during his arrest on Monday night in New Hampshire. Allain has been arrested three previous times for driving while intoxicated. Watch out Patrick, because the popo are on your tail! (AP)

Random Quote: “You can charge me with whatever you want. It’s not going to stop me from drinking and driving.” - Patrick Allain Ah, but maybe the kids in prison might! (AP)

Separated at Birth:

Celebrity Tid Bits:
Keith Urban has left the Betty Ford Center in California and has joined his wife Nicole Kidman in Sydney, Australia. Urban entered rehab in October for alcohol abuse.

Blake Shelton will release his latest album, Pure BS, on March 27, 2007. It will feature “Don’t Make Me” currently streaming on cmt.com.

TV ALERT: “My Boys” is all new tonight at 10 PM/est on TBS

TV ALERT: If you’ve missed an episode, check out the “Friday Night Lights” marathon on NBC tonight starting at 8 PM/est! (You can also watch all the episodes online at nbc.com)

Happy Birthday Shout outs to China Doll (37), Eva LaRue (40), Gerard Depardieu (58) and Cokie Roberts (64).

It’s been fun blogging with you,
Kate

President Ford

This morning I woke up to the news that former President Gerald Ford had died. Personally, the 38th President of the United States is one of my favorite Presidents because he was amazing, and he pardon Richard Nixon.

President Ford is remembered as the longest living President, dying at age 93 and the only President not elected to office. Ford replaced Spiro Agnew as Vice President under Richard Nixon and assumed the role of President after Nixon gracefully stepped down in 1974. While Ford was only President from 1974-1977, he was in office when the Vietnam War ended in 1975.

Ford is also considered the most athletic President. Although many remember him as clumsy, Ford played center for the University of Michigan and won two National Championships while he was there. He was offered contracts with two NFL teams, the Detroit Lions and Green Bay Packers but turned them down to go to Law School.

In 1999 he received the Medal of Honor from then President, Bill Clinton. He was called a “true gentleman” and a “great man” by current President George W. Bush and incoming Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi said of Ford, “[He] provided Americans with the steady leadership and optimism that was his signature."

One thing is sure, he will be missed. Rest in Peace our dear President.

(CNN)/(Foxsports.com)

December 26, 2006

I hope everyone had a happy holiday this weekend. I feel like I ingested my weight in salt. I’ve spent a large portion of today drinking water, hoping to balance out the salt intact from over the weekend.

I also took a trip around NJ and found a house totally decked out for the holidays. From afar, the house looked great, but up close it was a little scary. I feel bad for the people who live across the street; they probably can’t get any sleep with the glare from the lights.

NASCAR Update:
The National Guard will be moving from the #16 Ford driven by Greg Biffle to the #25 Chevy driven by Casey Mears in 2007.

Giants Update:
It started off great and then just went downhill in a hurry as the Giants lost to the New Orleans Saints 30-7. The Giants have lost 7 of 8, but at 7-8, Big Blue could still make the playoffs with a win over the Washington Redskins on Saturday.

Around Sports:
Baseball
The New York Yankees are looking to deal Randy Johnson, after the pitcher requested a trade to a team closer to his Phoenix home. If the Yankees can get rid of Johnson, they might be interested in obtaining Barry Zito. (si.com)

Basketball
Charlotte Bobcats’ minority owner, Felix Sabates (yeah, that Felix Sabates) wanted to donated his shares in the Bobcats (approx. $1.34 million) to the Carolinas HealthCare System but was blocked by team managing partner, Bob Johnson. Johnson does not want a non-profit having a stake in the Bobcats. (si.com)

The Dakota Wizards’ Martynas Andriuskivicius fractured his skull during a practice scuffle with teammate Awvee Storey. Storey has been suspended indefinitely and the NBA D-League is investigating the incident. (si.com)

Nenad Krstic, my favorite New Jersey Net, will be out for the rest of the season with a knee injury which will require surgery.

Football
The Philadelphia Eagles clinched a playoff spot with their 23-7 win over the Dallas Cowboys on Monday.

NBC has chosen the Green Bay Packers v. the Chicago Bears as their final flex game to be played on December 31st.

Random Quote: "Merry Christmas, Philadelphia." - Jeff Garcia I think I just threw up in my mouth!

Golf
Congratulations to Tiger Woods who was named AP Male Athlete of the Year beating out San Diego Chargers LaDainian Thomlinson and tennis ace Roger Federer.

Congratulations to Lorena Ochoa who was named AP Female Athlete of the Year.

Around the World:
Before you put up your new MySpace page, watch out, thieves who are out to steal your identity are targeting people with MySpace profiles by sending out bogus emails asking for your password. (AP)

If you’re looking for that Ernesto “Che” Guevara CD, don’t check Target, the conglomerate has taken the CD off their shelves after complaints, that the CD praises the “Marxist Revolutionary.” (Reuters)

Celebrity Tid Bits:
Sad news…James Brown died on Monday at the age of 73.

Arnold Schwarzenegger underwent surgery on his broken leg on Tuesday after breaking it while skiing in Idaho. That will teach him to leave California!

TV ALERT: “My Boys” is all new on TBS @ 10 PM/est

COUPLE ALERT: Carrie Underwood and Dallas Cowboys QB Tony Romo - I’d say it’s a step up from Jessica Simpson. What do you think?

Happy Birthday shout outs to Jared Leto (35) and Lars Ulrich (43)

This weekend was very exciting for my family. Congratulations to my brother and his girlfriend Karen on getting engaged on Friday!

It’s been fun blogging with you,
Kate

December 23, 2006

I only have a half day at work, and I’m kind of busy, so I’m keeping it brief, and I’ll try to update it when I get home.

Giants Update:
Tiki Barber will make his final start at Giants Stadium on Sunday. The 31 year old running back announced his retirement in October, but has been quoted as saying he only concerned with helping the Giants make the playoffs. They’ll need all the help they can get on Sunday when they go up against a strong New Orleans Saints team.

New York Giants v. New Orleans Saints: 1 PM/est on FOX

Random Quote: "It has been a great run for me. I know that. Great ups and great downs. I have been to a Super Bowl, and hopefully things turn around and we can go again." – Tiki Barber (si.com)

Around Sports:
Baseball
The Milwaukee Brewers have offered Jeff Suppan a four year deal reportedly in the $36-$40 million range. This is a bargain for the NLCS MVP. (AP)

College Basketball
It took two overtimes, but #15 Oklahoma St. was able to defeat #7 Pitt, 95-89 on Thursday.

#6 Duke sweeked out another close win beating #22 Gonzaga, 61-54 on Thursday night.

College Football
Five UMASS-Amherst students were expelled because of rioting after UMASS lost in the Division II Football Championship Game. Just imagine if they’d won, or were a Division I team. (si.com)

Football
The Green Bay Packers, lead by Brett Farve, made a late drive resulting in a game winning field goal as the Packers bested the Minnesota Vikings, 9-7 on Thursday.

Around the World:
Former Chief Executive of Pfizer, Henry A. McKinnell, has one hell of a retirement package. He’ll receive $180 million, $82.3 million in pension benefits, $77.9 million in deferred compensation and $20.7 million in cash and stock. Who knew retirement could be this financially rewarding? (AFP)

In a new item to protect from robbery news…The man who robbed David Palmer’s home in Wellsville, OH took coins, a camera, one slice of cheese and some bread to make a sandwich. Apparently robbing a home can make you very hungry! (AP)

Still shopping for Christmas? Well you can laugh at all those OCD people who got their Christmas shopping done in August because you’re having the best three days before Christmas ever, my friends. Retailers are practically rolling out the red carper for you, with extended hours and unbelievable sales, all in an attempt to get you buy those last minute gifts you never really needed to get in the first place. Thank goodness, because I have a few gifts to get for some people and well…a couple for myself…I have been such a good kid this year…I totally deserve it! (cnn.com)

Popo in my crib News:
Florida Marlins prized ace, Dontrelle Willis was arrested for suspicion of druken driving in Miami on Friday. Willis was spotted by the popo getting out of his Bentley to relieve himself on the street. As the popo approached him, they smelled a strong scent of alcohol. Willis failed a field sobriety test and was taken to the popo station where he refused a breathalyzer test. P to the S Dontrelle, the longer you wait to take a breathalyzer, the higher your blood alcohol level will be. Watch out Dontrelle, because the popo are on your tail!

Celebrity Tid Bits:
Just one day after Miss USA, Tara Conner, was shipped off to a Pennsylvania rehab, Miss Nevada, Katie Rees was stripped of her title after inappropriate photos of the beauty queen began to circulate the internet. So anyone out there who is interested in becoming the next “Tiara Girl”, realize you’ve got a year to keep it clean and the rest of your life to ruin with drugs and alcohol!

Congratulations to Diddy and girlfriend Kim Porter on the birth of their twin girls, D’Lilia Star and Jessie James on Wednesday.

Happy Birthday shout outs to Mia Tyler (28), Ralph Fiennes (44) and Hector Elizando (70). And tomorrow, Greg Biffle celebrates a birthday.

I’ll be back on Tuesday, December 26th. Have a happy and safe holiday!

It’s been fun blogging with you,
Kate

December 22, 2006

I have been so incredibly tired as of late. Not the, oh I need just a few more minutes kind of tired, the my body feels like it is asleep and my head is the only thing awake kind of tired. I actually have gone to sleep at 8:15ish all week. Last night I woke up at 10:30 and my arm was numb, so I kind of freaked out a little, but was too lazy to get up, so I watched the two episodes of “My Boys” that I had taped the night before. *SPOILERS* PJ and Bobby…again…not sure I love that, hopefully it was just her way of “checking out” on Hank.

Braves Update:
The Atlanta Braves have signed veteran, Chris Woodward to a one year contract. The 30 year old will be challenging Pete Orr and Martin Prado for everyday duties at second after the Braves elected to not resign Marcus Giles.

NASCAR Update:
Well that was quick…Larry Carter has left Michael Waltrip Racing for Roush Racing. Carter had been with MWR since its inception in the Cup Series.

Giants Update:
Michael Straham participated in his first team practice since November. Here’s hoping that Christmas comes a day early.

Around Sports:
Baseball
Random Quote: “I guess that just goes to show you how much he’s out there to win. I guess I’m the same way. He’s just lucky he’s not playing second!” – Marcus Giles on older brother, Brian (foxsports.com)

Basketball
Allen Iverson denies he demanded a trade, instead the former MVP just threatened the 76er’s front office. See, it’s all in the nuances.

The project at the Atlantic Yards in Brooklyn has been passed. Included in this project would be a new arena where the New Jersey Nets would play. With the Nets going to Brooklyn and the New Jersey Devils off to Newark, soon the only thing left will be the new Giants Stadium. So sad.

Football
Georgia Tech’s quarterback, Reggie Ball and cornerback, Kenny Scott have been deemed academically ineligible and will be unable to play in the Gator Bowl.

Around the World:
A blizzard that pounded Colorado, dumping more than two feet in some areas, has left the state at a virtual standstill. Area airports closed yesterday, stranding some 4,700 passengers in the airport. The airports are expected to remain closed until Thursday night. Meanwhile, local interstates were shutdown and mail has been stopped for two days. What’s the Post Office’s motto…rain, sleet, snow, or hail…I guess blizzard does not fall under the snow category.

In why some people shouldn’t have children news…a three month old was left in a cart at Toys R Us in Midland, TX for an hour after its parents forgot to take the child. Apparently, the family was driving in separate cars and believed the other car had the child. How about using a cell phone to make sure all are accounted for, because I doubt a three month old can participate in count off! (AP)

Popo in my crib News:
David Dright faces 27 counts of identity theft of regular Joes and is believed to have stolen the identities of 90 retired and current athletes including the White Sox Jim Thome and The Mets’ Moises Alou. Watch out David, because the popo are on you tail!

James John Karl was arrested in connection with the theft of a suit worn by Dale Earnhardt. Karl is a former employee at the Texas Motor Speedway where the suit was being held at the time of the theft. Watch out James, because the popo are on your tail!

A Louisiana mother, who was jailed after her infant daughter’s toes were bitten off, claims the family’s pet ferret is the culprit, not the pit bull as previously stated by the police. Mary Hansche and her husband Christopher were jailed in lieu of paying $50,000 bond each on child desertion and criminal negligence charges. Mary, I’m going to be honest, I don’t know how this revelation helps your case. Either way you’re still a moron. Watch out Mary and Chris because the popo are on your tail!

Celebrity Tid Bits:
Tim McGraw’s latest single “Last Dollar” will be the first video played on CMT in 2007. Starting at 12:01AM on January 1st, you can view Tim’s latest at cmt.com. It will make its television debut at 6AM on CMT.

Kenny Chesney’s latest hit, “Beer in Mexico” was inspired by a trip to Sammy Hagar’s home in Mexico. I would love to hear the unedited version.

Congratulations to Little Big Town, who was named the top Independent Artist by Billboard. Little Big Town’s latest album, The Road to Here, which was released on Equity Records, was also named top Independent Album.

Congratulations to Rascal Flatts, who was named “Top 200” Artist, Top Country Artist, Top Country Artist, Top Country Album Artist, Top Country Duo or Group and “Top 200” Duo or Group by Billboard. This is the first time a group has been named “Top 200” artist and Top Country artist in the same year.

Sad news for “Lost” star Evangeline Lilly, who’s Hawaiian home was destroyed by a fire on Wednesday.

TV ALERT: “The OC” is all new and their heading to Vegas. 9 PM/est on Fox

MADD (Mothers Against Drunk Driving) are cutting ties with Miss Teen USA, Katie Blair, after she was seen drinking with Miss USA, Tara Conner. Seriously, where’s the chaperon?

According to several reports, Oscar winner, Reese Witherspoon, has packed up her kids and moved to Charleston, S.C. where she has enrolled them into public schools. The Nashville native filed for divorce from husband of seven years, Ryan Philippe in October.

Happy Birthday shout outs to Kiefer Sutherland (40), Jeffrey Katzenberg (56), Samuel L. Jackson (58), Jane Fonda (69) and Phil Donahue (71).

It’s been fun blogging with you,
Kate

December 20, 2006

I think I fell asleep at 8:15 last night, sometime during my fifth viewing of the latest Harry Potter movie on HBO. I’ve been so tired as of late, I’ve begun counting down the days to my little 3 ½ day break so I can sleep the day away and hopefull catch up! I miss those month long breaks I used to have during college.

Braves Update:
Skip Caray and Pete Van Wieren have extended their contracts through 2009 to be the voices of the Braves on radio.

NASCAR Update:
Toyota is looking for land near Charlotte to build an engineering facility. Toyota will be joining Nextel Cup in 2007.

Giants Update:
Congratulations to Tiki Barber and Jeremy Shockey on making the NFC Pro Bowl team. Tiki will be joined by his twin brother Ronde in Tiki's final Pro Bowl game.

Around Sports:
Baseball
Two weeks after a preliminary agreement was reached, the Red Sox and J.D. Drew still have not finalized a contract. The Red Sox noticed a “red flag” in Drew’s medical exam, reportedly connected to shoulder issues Drew failed to disclose during negotiations with the Red Sox. (AP)

Former Brave, Ryan Klesko, has a new home…San Francisco. Klesko signed a one year, $1.75 million contract play first base for the Giants.

Random Quote: “That probably would give baseball another reason to consider reinstating me. I know I’ve made mistakes, but a lot of people feel I’ve paid for those mistakes. It’s been 17 years already.” – Pete Rose on the new Cincinnati Reds exhibit honoring him (AP)

Basketball
The Phoenix Suns are on a role, they won their 15th straight game on Tuesday night, beating the Toronto Raptors 115-98.

Allen Iverson was traded to the Denver Nuggets for Andre Miller, Joe Smith and two first round draft picks. This comes one day after the Nugget's star Carmello Anthony was suspended 15 games for his actions during the Nuggets/Knicks game.

Football
ESPN has signed a five year deal to air Arena Football games. They’ll be showing them on ESPN 8, the Ocho, along with the dodge ball championship tournament.

Around the World:
A woman put her one month old grandson through the x-ray machine at LAX. The security worker noticed the shape of a child and pulled the boy out of the machine. The child was taken to a local hospital and released. So we’ve learned two important things today, 1) Humans do not go into x-ray machines, 2) the security workers at the airport actually pay attention to what goes through x-ray machines. (AP)

It’s a good time to work for Goldman Sachs and nobody knows that better than Chairman, Lloyd C. Blankein who earned a Wall Street record, $53.4 million bonus. Goldman’s Co-Presidents, Gary D. Cohn and Jon Winkelreid earned $25.7 million in restricted stock and options. (nytimes.com)

Milan has officially banned uber-skinny models that have a body mass index (BMI) less than 18.5 from their fashion shows. They also created an age requirement of 16 to walk on the catwalk. This follows, Madrid which put a similar ban in place this fall.

488 communites have been erased from the Georgia map because “they don’t qualify as an incorporated town,” including Hickory Level, Roosterville, Texas and my favorite Hopeulikit. (Sounds like its spelt) (usatoday.com)

Popo in my crib News:
Former New Jersey State Senate President, John A. Lynch was sentenced to 39 months in jail and fined $50,000 for his pay to play actions. Lynch accepted thousands of dollars during his tenure. Watch out John because the popo are on your tail!

Celebrity Tid Bits:
The new poster for the 2007 Oscars was released. It features famous movie lines like “Show me the money” from Jerry Maguire and “Stella” from A Streetcar Named Desire. Lines that didn’t make the list were “As if” from Clueless and my favorite “You can sell ice to the Eskimos, you can sell this spoiled kid on happy he really is” from Blue Chips.

ABC has green lighted the pilot for an American version of “Footballers Wives” called “Football Wives.” Recent British remakes include the impossibly funny “The Office” and the painful “Coupling”.

The Wreckers, Big & Rich, Trisha Yearwood and her husband, Garth Brooks will all be a part of the NHL All-Star weekend from January 20-24th in Dallas, TX.

Happy Birthday shout outs to JoJo (16) and Chris Robinson (40).

It’s been fun blogging with you,

Kate

December 19, 2006

I’m sorry it’s late and short again, but I’ve been super busy and it’s not going to get any better with Christmas on the horizon. Speaking of Christmas, I started making cookies. I made the dough last night and put it in the freezer, tonight I bake and tomorrow I frost. These people better appreciate all the work that goes into making super cute sugar cookies!

NASCAR Update:
Jeff Gordon is really on cloud nine, he gets engaged and then marries model Ingrid Vandebosch, then they announce they’re expecting, and now his children’s hospital opens in Charlotte, NC. I guess he’s ok with losing the Championship to Jimmie Johnson.

Giants Update:
Pro Bowl defensive end, Michael Straham may play on Sunday in the biggest game of the Giant’s season against the New Orleans Saints. The Giants must win the remaining two games and hope for everything to fall into place to make the playoffs this season.

Random Quote: “Michael wants to play, he wants to play.” –Tom Coughlin on Michael Straham

Around Sports:
Baseball
The Mets are traveling to California to talk to free agent Barry Zito.

It may not be Cooperstown, but the Cincinnati Reds are creating an exhibit in their Hall of Fame to honor Pete Rose. I’m pretty sure my brother will be there the day it opens.

Football
The Colts defense actually showed up on Monday night as they downed the Cincinnati Bengals 34-16. The Colts sacked Bengal’s quarterback, Carson Palmer four times including three by Dwight Freeny.

Don’t worry about LaDainian Thomlinson, he says he’s fine after receiving a pop to his jaw during the Chargers games against the Kansas City Chiefs on Sunday.

Terrell Owens was fined $35,000 by the NFL after he spit on DeAngelo Hall during the Cowboys win over the Falcons on Saturday.

Golf
17 year old, Michelle Wie was accepted to Stanford and plans to attend the University in the fall. Another big name golfer to attend Stanford, Tiger Woods.

Around the World:
First Lady, Laura Bush, has been treated for skin cancer after noticing a “sore on her leg that would not heal.” She was diagnosed with a squamous cell carcinoma, the second most common form of skin cancer. She has since been seen sporting a large band aid on her right leg. (people.com)

Quick quiz…Which crop do American farmers make the most money off of?
A) Corn
B) Wheat
C) Marijuana
If you guessed (c) then you’d be right. Growers of pot make an estimated $35 billion a year, and that’s without any government assistance. (Reuters)

A zoo in Switzerland is being overrun by snakes after an anaconda gave birth to 40 babies. Guess where I’ll be skipping on my next trip to Switzerland. (AFP)

Popo in my crib News:
Steven Michael Evarts, who was drafted by the Atlanta Braves, was arrested when he was caught using a baseball bat to damage a vehicle. He was arrested and released on $2000 bail. Like we really needed another crazy pitcher! Watch out Steven, because the popo are on your tail!

Eloise D. Reeves, 50 was arrested after complaining to cops that she had bought some bad crack. She was charged with possession of cocaine. See, and just when you think “Cops” is staged, this happens. Watch out Eloise, because the popo are on your tail!

Celebrity Tid Bits:
Sad news…Joe Barbara of Hanna-Barbara fame has died at the age of 95. The team created mainstays like “The Flintstones” and “The Jetsons.”

Miss USA, Tara Conners is heading to rehab, although she will not be relinquishing her crown, so I guess it’s not all bad news.

TV ALERT: "My Boys" on TBS @ 10 PM/est I'm totally obesses with it and you should be too!

Happy Birthday shout outs to Jake Gyllenhaal (26), Marla Sokoloff (26), Alyssa Milano (34) and Jennifer Beals (43).

It’s been fun blogging with you,

Kate

December 18, 2006

Sorry kids, but not only is this late, but it’s also going to have to be short and probably filled with spelling/gramar mistakes!

NASCAR Update:
Rumors previously putting Johnny Sauter in the #88 Ford at Robert Yates Racing were, well rumors. According to motorsport.com via jayski.com, Ricky Rudd will take over the #88 (#28 in 2007) after a year off. Rudd previously raced at RYR from 2000-2002.

NASCAR will be looking for a new sponsor for the current Busch Series when Busch leaves after the 2007 season.

Giants Update:
Sorry, this took a while to get over. The Giants have had glimmers of hope over the last six games, but have only been able to put one win on the board and that didn't come against the Philadelphia Eagles who they lost to 36-22 on Sunday. The Giants' inablity to score a touchdown was their true weak spot. They settled for 9 points instead of 21, which would have changed the game entirely. Big Blue looks for a win against the strong New Orleans Saints on Sunday, if they have any hope of making it to the playoffs this year.

Around Sports:
Baseball
After being let go by the Atlanta Braves, Marcus Giles looks to be joining his older brother, Brian in San Diego. The 28 year old, second baseman will likely make less than the expected $5.5 million he would have received through arbitration with the Braves. An announcement is expected early this week. (Foxsports.com)

The Minnesota Twin’s Brad Radke is expected to announce his retirement. The 34 year old right hander has been hammered by shoulder problems. In his 12 year career he has amassed a 148-139 record.

Vernon Wells signed a monster seven year, $126 million contract extension with the Toronto Blue Jays.

Basketball
The NBA has handed out some hefty fines after Saturday night’s brawl between the New York Knicks and Denver Nuggets. The NBA’s leading scorer, Carmello Anthony was suspended 15 games for punching Mardy Collins. Denver’s J.R. Smith and New York’s Nate Robinson received 10 game suspensions. Other suspended players included the Knicks’ Mardy Collins, who began the brawl by fouling Smith (6 games), Jared Jeffries (4 games) and Jerome James (1 game) and the Nuggets’ Nene (1 game). Both teams were fined $500,000 a piece.

Football
After a thrilling Sunday overtime victory against the Tampa Bay Bucaneers, the Chicago Bears clinched home field advantage in the playoffs.

Even with the New Orleans Saints 16-10 loss to the Washington Redskins, the Saints were still able to clinch a playoff spot when the Carolina Panthers lost to the Pittsburgh Steelers 37-3. This is the Saints first playoff appearance since 2000.

Running
Indian runner, Shanti Sounderajan, failed a gender test and was stripped of her/his silver medal which he/she received in the woman’s 800 meters at the Asian Games.

Around the World:
In this better be amazing news…the Four Seasons in Jakarta has put a $110 hamburger on the menu. The burger is made out of 225 grams of kobe beef. But that hasn’t made them a big seller, only 20 of them have been ordered since it hit the menu. (Reuters)

Celebrity Tid Bits:
Congratulations to “Apprentice” season one winner, Bill Rancic and E! News anchor, Guiliana DePandi on their engagement. The couple has been dating for 10 months.

Congratulations to Sugarland who scored their first #1 single since the band became a duo with “Want to.” They also had their sophomore disc Enjoy the Ride go platinum. Apparently Christmas came early for Jennifer and Kristian.

The Pursuit of Happyness was number one at the box office this weekend. The new Will Smith movie brought in $27 million. Right behind it was Eragon with $23.5 million followed by Charlotte’s Web with $12 million. Happy Feet continue to wow audiences coming in fourth with $.84 million and The Holiday with $8 million rounded out the top five.

According to Eonline’s Watch with Kristin, ABC’s “Help Me Help You” has been cancelled.

Happy Birthday shout outs to Christina Aguilera (26), Katie Holmes (28), Brad Pitt (43), Ray Liotta (51), Stephen Spielberg (60) and Keith Richards (63).

It’s been fun blogging with you,
Kate

December 15, 2006

So getting out of Penn Station could have been worse last night. The trains were about 30 minutes delayed for whatever reason, but I got to Secaucus only 5 minutes later than normal. My train from SEC was 5 minutes late…whatever…then the train in front of us basically dies and the people on the train need to be picked up, so we were supposed to pick up them up, until they realize there’s another train that can do that…a local…which we get stuck behind. I was about 45 minutes late getting home! Got to love that NJ Transit!

In theaters now:
Charlotte’s Webb
Pursuit of Happyness
Eragon
Dreamgirls
The Good German

NASCAR Update:
NASCAR CEO Brian France admits he was drinking the night of November 6th when he hit a poll with his car. You don’t say Brian!

Dale Earnhardt, Inc. announced they have hired former Zomba Label Group/Sony/BMG executive, Max Siegel as the new President of Global Operations. He’ll be overseeing marketing, promotions, sales, sponsorship and distribution for all of Dale Earnhardt, Inc. properties. (jayski.com)

Giants Update:
The Giants will take on their neighbors to the south, the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday. Both teams are fighting to stay alive at 7-6. They lead the NFC wild card race, but with three games remaining in the season, anything can happen. In their previous meeting, the Giants needed late game heroics to beat the Eagles at home, but are hoping for less excitement.

New York Giants vs. Philadelphia Eagles: 4:15 PM/est on FOX

Random Quote: “You have to imagine that they are going to have wrinkles.” –Plaxico Burress

Around Sports:
Baseball
The Houston Astros Jeff Bagwell retired on Thursday after 15 years with the team. During his career he amassed 449 homers and recorded Astros records with 1529 RBIS, 1401 walks and 698 extra base hits. Bagwell has been battling shoulder problems which have kept him off the field since 2005. (AP)

Basketball
He may not know where he’ll be playing during the All-Star break, but current 76er, Allen Iverson is leading All-Star balloting in the Eastern Conference guard race.

Football
New England Patriots quarterback, Tom Brady has split from girlfriend of three years, Bridget Monyahan.

The San Francisco 49ers stunned the Seattle Seahawks 24-12 on Thursday.

Hockey
Sad news…Joshua Freeman, minority owner of the Washington Capitals, was killed in a helicopter crash. The 42 year old was returning from a holiday party.

Around the World:
Talk about stupid, reigning Miss USA, Tara Conner, has been seen around New York City doing things that would make Paris Hilton blush. The 20 year old has even been seen in local bars. Last I checked, you have to be 21 to drink. Organizers of the pageant are reviewing her behavior to decide on proper action. TMZ.com is reporting that runner-up Miss California has already been notified that she will take over Conner’s crown.

A heavy storm packing ferocious winds knocked out power to 1.5 million people in Oregon and Washington on Friday. The storm which also caused flooding, is being blamed for the death of three people. (cnn.com)

Popo in my crib News:
Miami Dolphins rookie, Marcus Vick, has been served! Vick was sued by a 17 year old girl who claims that during their two year relationship Vick sexual battered her among other things. Watch out Marcus, because the popo will be on your tail!

Chicago Bears defensive tackle, Terry Johnson, was charged with possession of a fire arm without proper identification on Thursday. Watch out Terry, because the popo are on your tail!

Celebrity Tid Bits:
Congratulations to Prince William who graduated as an army officer on Friday. Let me guess where he is not going…Iraq?!

Sara Evans will join her “Dancing with the Stars” co-stars when the tour hits Nashville. Past stars who’ll be on tour include Season 2 winner, Drew Lachey, Harry Hamlin and his wife Lisa Rinna, Joey Lawrence, Joey McIntyre and Jerry Springer.

TV ALERT: Catch Toby Keith in his feature film debut, when CMT airs Broken Bridges at 8 PM/est!

Dolly Parton has pledged $500,000 to a new hospital being built in her hometown of Sevierville, TN. The gift was made in honor of Dr. Robert F. Thomas, the doctor who delivered her in 1946.

Others in the giving mood include LeAnn Rimes, Jay DeMarcus of Rascal Flatts, Jeffrey Steele and Sarah Buxton (don’t you love her new single “Innocence?”) who will be performing a free concert near Nashville for the Monroe Carrell, Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt University on Sunday.

Happy Birthday shout outs to Adam Brody (27), Stuart Townsend (34) and Don Johnson (57).

It’s been fun blogging with you,

Kate

December 14, 2006

I enjoyed a very nice dinner at Virgil’s BBQ last night with my brother, Karen and my mom. I had the pulled Carolina Pork Sandwich, which was amazing. It doesn’t matter what I order there, it’s always good!

When I got home I watch "Britain’s Next Top Model", which is basically "America’s Next Top Model" with people who need subtitles so you can understand what they’re saying. Although the big difference is, Britain does not discriminate against the blondes. It took "ANTM" like six seasons before they chose a blonde and they had a bunch of goodies, Shannon in Season 1, Kaylee in Season 4, and Joanie last season!

Braves Update:
Marcus Giles will not be back with the Atlanta Braves, after the Braves decided not to renew his contract. The second baseman had a shaky 2006 where he was unable to adjust to the leadoff spot. His expected salary increase to $5 million sealed his fate with the Braves’ payroll strings being tightened. Reliever Chris Reitsma was also let go.

NASCAR Update:
Congratulations to Jeff Gordon and his wife Ingrid who are expecting their first child in July.

Ward Burton, who has missed the past two seasons, will return to Nextel Cup in the #4 Morgan McClure Motorsports Chevy. He’ll be sponsored by State Water Heaters.

Scott Speed will replace Jimmie Johnson in the Race of Champions in Paris after Johnson broke his wrist “horsing around.”

Around Sports:
Baseball
The Boston Red Sox and pitcher Daisuke Matsuzaka have reached a preliminary agreement to a six year, $52 million contract.

Random Quote: “I’m sure I’ll get fired one day…I’m probably not going to quit, that’s for sure.” –Greg Maddux (yahoo.com)

Football
Sad news…Kansas City Chiefs owner, Lamar Hunt died on Wednesday at the age of 74. Hunt pioneered the AFL and is credited with coming up with the title “Superbowl” for the NFL championship game.

The Tennessee Titans have placed defensive end, Antwan Odom on the injured reserve list due to a leg injury. The Miami Dolphins placed quarterback Dante Culpepper on IR as well with a knee injury.

The University of Washington’s back up quarterback Johnny DuRocher says he might be able to play football again after he underwent brain surgery to remove a non-cancerous brain tumor. DuRocher seemed more concerned on growing his hair long for baseball season, though.

Hockey
The Anahmein “Don’t call us Mighty” Ducks have recorded an NHL record best road start through 15 games following Wednesday’s 2-1 win over the Atlanta Thrashers. The Ducks are 12-1-2 on the road.

Tennis
Congratulations to three time major champ, Lindsay Davenport who announced she is pregnant. This will be the first child for Lindsay and her husband Jonathan Leach. Davenport is expected to miss the beginning of the 2007 season.

Around the World:
The democrats control over the Senate is on shaky ground after South Dakota Senator, Tim Johnson under went surgery. Sen. Johnson suffers from Arteriovenous Malformation (AVM) which causes arteries and veins to grow abnormally large and become tangled. If Sen. Johnson is unable to perform his job, a successor would be chosen by South Dakota’s republican Governor Mike Rounds. Currently the democrats hold a scant 51-49 advantage over the Republicans which would change to a 50-50 tie with the republican appointee. Vice President, Dick Chaney would break the tie, thus giving the republicans the majority in the Senate. (AP)

Ricko Lisko, an avid hunter, came across something he’d never seen before, a deer with seven legs, in his driveway. He accidentally killed the deer, as he slowed down; the deer ran underneath the car. Lisko took pictures and sent it to the State Department of Natural Resources. (AP)

An international expedition declared the rare white dolphin effectively extinct, bringing new meaning to the word rare.

MTA board member Mitch Pally wants to ban alcohol from Metro-North and Long Island Railroad trains. “Times have changed and drunk driving is a major concern,” Pally said. Wait, the conductors get to drink on the job? I’m a little nervous! (yahoo.com)

A Candian man is said to be the only person alive without a pulse. The man was suffering “from severe heart failure due to a heart attack,” and was deemed unfit for a transplant. So he underwent surgery to install a mechanical heart. (AFP)

Popo in my crib News:
Yoko Ono’s driver, Koral Karson, was arrested on charges of extortion. John Lennon’s widow, also claims Karson threatened to killer her and her son, Sean. Watch out Koral, because the popo are on your tail!

Golden Globes:
So the Golden Globe nominations were announced this morning. Here are a few highlights:
Best Motion Picture-Drama
Babel
Bobby
The Queen
Little Children
The Departed

Best Motion Picture-Comdey
Borat
The Devil Wears Prada
Dreamgirls
Little Miss Sunshine
Thank You For Smoking

Best Animated Feature
Cars
Happy Feet
Monster House

Best TV Series-Drama
24
Big Love
Grey’s Anatomy
Heroes
Lost

Best TV Series-Comedy
Desperate Housewives (huh?)
Entourage
The Office
Ugly Betty
Weeds

Notable nods: Eddie Murphy and Jennifer Hudson are up for Best Supporting Actors for their roles in Dreamgirls. Ben Affleck will go up against Murphy for Best Supporting Actor for his role in Hollywoodland. Congrats to America Ferrera on her nomination for Best Actress in TV Series-Comedy for Ugly Betty and Steve Carrell and Alec Baldwin for their nominations in the Best Actor in a TV Series-Comedy!

For the complete list of nominations check out nfpa.org/news/id/42

Celebrity Tid Bits:
Sad news... “Everybody Loves Raymond” and Young Frankenstein actor, Peter Boyle died on Wednesday at 71. Boyle was suffering from multiple Myeloma and heart disease.

TV ALERT: Celebrate Christmukkah with "the OC" tonight @ 9 PM/est on Fox

Reigning Entertainer of the Year, Kenny Chesney will produce Willie Nelson’s next album.

Trick Pony played their final show at the Wildhorse Saloon in Nashville on Wednesday. I’m sure this is upsetting to someone, but that someone is not me!

Happy Birthday shout outs to Patty Duke (60).

Happy belated Bday to my friend Kathleen!

It’s been fun blogging with you,

Kate

December 12, 2006

Last night I attempted to watch the Lifetime movie “A Christmas Wedding” starring Sarah Paulson (Studio 60), Eric Mabius (Ugly Betty) and Dean Cain (Lois & Clark). Painful is not the right word. You know when you watch a movie, you’re supposed to have empathy for the characters…well I didn’t. Actually, that’s not true, I felt bad for Mabius’ character who was forced into full bride position when his fiancée, Paulson was stuck in Florida days before her wedding. You see the problem is that I felt that Paulson’s character was selfish and didn’t deserve a damn thing. Don’t worry, I can’t spoil it, because I cut out after an hour…it was too hard to watch, even for Lifetime standards.

NASCAR Update:
Kerry Earnhardt and Martin Truex, Jr. will be testing the #8 and #1 COT for DEI at South Georgia Motorspeedway in Valdosta, GA on Monday and Tuesday.

Carl Edwards has expanded his outside racing ventures to include a new record label, Back 40 Records. Edwards turned a room in a house into a recording studio to aid local artists in recording music without having to travel to St. Louis or Kansas City. The first CD, “That One CD” will feature a compilation of six different artists. (York Dispatch via jayski.com)

Around Sports:
Baseball
This years Hall of Fame game will feature a rematch of the 1969 World Series between the New York Mets and Baltimore Orioles.

Basketball
After a lot of complaining by players, the NBA announced they will go back to the leather basketballs used in pervious seasons, on January 1st. Now players will have to find something else to complain about, like the officiating.

Only one year after the T.O. debacle, Philadelphia fans have to deal with another messy exit. This time it’s Allen Iverson. Iverson, who has always been demanding, has requested a trade and the 76ers are eager to grant him his wish, even cleaning out his locker. The verdict is still out on where he’s going but both sides are hoping for a speedy resolution.

Football
Devin Hester made history with his fifth and sixth punt returns for a touchdown in the Chicago Bears 42-27 slaughtering of the St. Louis Rams on Monday. Hester’s second quarter 94 yard punt return was bested by his 96 yard return in the fourth quarter.

Random Quote: “It’s like the gates of Heaven opened up for me.” –Devin Hester (AP)

Racing
19 year old, Marco Andretti is set to test a Formula One Car for Honda Racing, F1 in Spain. The IRL star, who races Hondas for Andretti Green, nearly won the Indy 500 this year. Marco’s father, Michael Andretti race in F1 for McLaren in 1993 and his grandfather, Mario Andretti is the 1978 F1 Champion.

Soccer
17 year old phenom, Freddy Adu was traded to Real Salt Lake from D.C. United. The teen spent most of his three years with D.C. United butting heads with his fellow players and coaches.

Around the World:
The world’s oldest person, Elizabeth “Lizzie” Bolden, died on Monday. She was 116 years old. Ms. Bolden had been living at the Mid-South Health and Rehabilitation Center in Tennessee. The most amazing part of the story was that she had 40 grandchildren, 75 great grandchildren, 150 great-great grandchildren, 220 great-great-great grandchildren and 75 great-great-great-great grandchildren at the time of her death! (AP)

H&M has been banned by City Council from opening a store on Paris’ famed Champ Elysees. The Council fears that lower class stores will out number the high priced stores lining the street. Once they opened the Disney Store on Fifth Avenue, it all went down hill, so I totally agree with the Council on this one!

What seems wrong with this…A new bill proposed by Texas lawmakers would make it legal for legally blind residents to use laser sights or lighted pointer instruments when they hunt. Currently, the legally blind can only hunt with the aid of a sighted person, a measure that would still be in effect even with the use of a laser or pointer instrument. I don’t even know where to start! (AP)

Popo in my crib News:
Jeffrey Eugene Ferguson was arrested for impersonating a deputy sheriff so he could go bowling in Georgia. Mr. Ferguson, 46, was trying to gain access to the Hunter Army Base when he showed a Chatham County Sheriff’s badge to a guard at the gate. The guard immediately called the popo who arrested him. Watch out Jeffrey, because the popo are on your tail!

Celebrity Tid Bits:
Kellie Pickler will be all over TV this week. Pickler will appear in a segment for The Tonight Show with Jay Leno on Thursday and on The Ellen Degeneres Show on Friday.

Congratulations to Rascal Flatts who picked up another #1 single with their hit, “My Wish.”

TV ALERT: All new Friday Night Lights @ 8PM/est on NBC

TV ALERT: “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” @ 8PM/est on ABC

TV ALERT: All new episode of My Boys @ 10 PM/est on TBS

Princes William and Harry have confirmed they are planning a concert on July 1st at London’s Wembley Stadium to honor their mother, Princess Diana. (abcnews.com)

It’s been fun blogging with you,

Kate

December 11, 2006

On Friday, a couple of us headed over to Rockefeller Center for our annual Christmukkah dinner. We ate at the Rock Center Café, which was super yummy but our seats had, as the hostess called it “a partial view,” which basically meant, if I turned my head a certain way, I could see the reflection of people waiting in line to ice skate. There were also no engagements while we were there. I guess people aren’t into the whole $200 engagement package!

On Saturday, my mom and I had a little mother/daughter day. We went shopping at the Riverside Square Mall and I got my Christmas present. I also got some tights from J.Crew which are totally cute. Then we had burgers at the Iron Horse and saw The Holiday. It was a very cute chick flick and I loved Kate Winslett. At times throughout the movie, I wanted to recast Cameron Diaz’ role. She was either over the top, or just missing it, which was a shame because Jude Law was surprisingly good in it.

Braves Update:
According to atlantabraves.com, the Braves are interested in acquiring outfielder, Rocco Baldelli from the Devil Rays. Baldelli would fill the hole of leadoff batter, created when Rafael Furcal left in 2005 for the Dodgers. I’m all for it. We’d have to give up Jarrod Saltalamacchia, who is an excellent prospect, but with Brian McCann at catcher, Salty would have to learn a different position. We’d also have to give up a starting pitcher like Kyle Davies, which makes me nervous. We sent Horacio to Seattle last week, and Hampton’s returning from a year and a half on the DL, but Lance Cormier showed some promise and Davies hasn’t been the same since his injury. Plus I saw Baldelli hit a leadoff homer at Yankee Stadium, so I think the kids ok!

NASCAR Update:
Jimmie Johnson fell off his golf cart and fractured his wrist on Sunday forcing him to back out of the Race of Champions Nations Cup at the Stade de France in Paris next weekend. A replacement has not been announced. Reports have Johnson on the top of the roof of the golf cart before he fell off. Good move, buddy!

Turns out Greg Biffle dislocated his shoulder during his fiery crash at Las Vegas Motor Speedway on Thursday. Biffle was unable to attend the Busch Series Awards in Florida over the weekend because his doctors advised him to stay home.

Matt Borland has left Penske Racing South to become Dale Jarrett’s crew chief at Michael Waltrip Racing.

Giants Update:
The skid stopped in Carolina, as the New York Giants beat the Carolina Panthers 27-13. Eli Manning returned to his old form throwing three touchdown passes and Tiki Barber rushed for 112 yards in the win. With the Giants win and the Eagles narrow victory over the Redskins, the two are tied for the NFC wild card lead. They are also only one game behind the Dallas Cowboys who lost 42-17 to the New Orleans Saints on Sunday.

Around Sports:
Baseball
The Detroit Tigers resigned Brandon Inge to a four year, $24 million contract.

The New York Yankees signed Andy Pettitte to a one year $16 million contract with a player option for 2008 worth $16 million. Pettitte, who played for the Yankees until leaving for Houston in 2003, was offered only a one year, $12 million contract by the Astros.

Football
LaDainian Tomlinson recorded 3 TDs and a season total of 29 TDs to surpass Sean Alexander’s season record of 28 on Sunday. Oh yeah, and the Chargers beat the Denver Broncos 48-20 to pick up the AFC West title.

The Colts have lost two straight and 3 of their last 4 after losing 44-17 to the Jaguars on Sunday. Isn’t it a little early to implode, I mean, it’s not even the playoffs!

Congrats to Ohio State quarterback, Troy Smith on winning the 2006 Heisman Trophy.

Around the World:
Former Chilean dictator, Gen. Augusto Pinochet died from heart failure on Sunday. He was 91 years old. Pinochet took over after a bloody coop in 1973 and stayed in power for 17 years. While Chile had one of the most stable economies in South America, Pinochet had little tolerance for dissent. Police have been called in to prevent riots from erupting.

For years, children have been sending their Christmas list to the North Pole. But a town in Alaska, North Pole, Alaska to be exact, has been receiving these letters, about 120,000 last year from 26 different countries. The town of only 1,600 located in interior Alaska has taken it upon themselves to put a smile on these children’s faces by sending replies to any letter that has a return address.

Popo in my crib News:
Nicole Richie was arrested Monday morning for DUI. Ms. Richie posted the $15,000 bail and was released. Watch out Nicole, because the popo are on your tail!

Celebrity Tid Bits:
Josh Gracin sang lead for Lonestar on Thursday after Lonestar lead singer, Richie McDonald was forced to stay home with a back injury.

TV ALERT: Carrie Underwood on "Oprah"

TV ALERT: All new "How I Met Your Mother" @ 8 PM/est on CBS

Random Quote: What presents will you get your kids this season?– Sana Qureshi, Houston
“Some diapers for Quin – he definitely uses them and Lord knows we like it when he does. We might get a trampoline for Ella, but I'm going to cut it into eight pieces and give one each night for Hanukkah. That way she will really appreciate it when it finally works.” –Ben Stiller (via people.com)

Happy Birthday shout outs to Rider Strong (27), Mos Def (33), Jermaine Jackson (52), John Kerry (63) and Tony Eury, Sr.

It’s been fun blogging with you,
Kate

December 8, 2006

So I’ve spent most of this morning scouring the internet looking for pictures of celebs with the bangs that I want. I have a haircut appointment tomorrow and while I should be taking off a good three inches of hair, I’m not ready to part with my completely damaged long hair. But I’m totally bored overall with my hair, so I figured bangs would be a cute way to spice up my hair without completely killing it. If it’s a huge mistake I’ll just have to invest in a bunch more headbands and bobby pins. My hair is really fine and nothing stays in it, so I’m always using bobby pins to keep it back anyway. So I’m sure the fringe will be cute…at least I hope.

New In Theaters:
Apocalypto
Blood Diamond
The Holiday
Unaccompanied Minors
Inland Empire

Braves Update:
So it’s official, we’ve got a new relief pitcher by the name of Rafael Soriano, although we had to trade Harcio Ramirez for him. Interesting fact, they were both hit in the head by line-drives last season.

NASCAR Update:
Greg Biffle was involved in a fiery crash at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway on Thursday. Biffle was helped out of the car by Kyle Busch who was also testing tires at the time of the accident. Reportedly, one of the tires on Biffle’s car blew apart sending him into the wall. Biffle was shaken but not injured and left the track soon after.

Congratulations to Kyle Petty who received the “Impact Driver of the Year Award” for his charitable work.

Ken Schrader will be driving the #18 Dodge for Bobby Hamilton Racing in the Craftsman Truck Series next year. A yet to be named driver will fill in for Schrader when his Cup schedule prevents him from racing in the Truck Series.

David Starr has parted ways with Red Horse Racing in the Craftsman Truck Series due to a lack of sponsorship. He’ll reportedly be replaced by Aaron Fike, who’ll be bringing his own sponsor.

Giants Update:
The Giants look to stop their recent skid by kicking the asses of the team that took them out of the playoffs last season, the Carolina Panthers. The good news for the Giants, Panthers quarterback, Jack Delhomme, missed another practice due to his injured thumb, making it more likely that Chris Weinke will play instead. The bad news, Michael Straham looks doubtful to play on Sunday.

New York Giants @ Carolina Panthers: 1PM on Fox

Giants notes: The NFL approved a $300 million loan to the New York Giants/Jets for a new stadium at the Meadowlands. The New Giants Stadium (which won't be it's name because the Jets are babies and want their name included. I'm sure if you moved to Long Island you could have you're very own Jets Stadium!) is expected to cost between $1.1 and 1.2 billion.

Around Sports:
Baseball
Sad news…former San Francisco Giants SS, Juan Uribe was killed in a car accident in his native Dominican Republic. He was 47 years old.

Barry Bonds resigned with the San Francisco Giants for a one year $16 million contract. $16 million for a guy that’s going to play twice a week and is only good for you until he hopefully doesn’t break the homerun record!

The New York Mets signed pitcher Guillermo Mota to a two year, $5 million contract. One hitch…Mota will miss the first 50 games after violating MLB’s steroids policy. Oops!

Basketball
My poor New Jersey Nets lost again on Thursday. This time it was a 161-157 double overtime heartbreaker to the Phoenix Suns.

Football
The Pittsburgh Steelers beat the Cleveland Browns 27-7 on Thursday. Isn’t it kind of late to start turning things on, huh?

Random Quote: "The championship speech? I must have went to sleep on that one." –Terrell Owens on Dallas Cowboys coach, Bill Parcells’ Monday morning speech

Around the World:
According to a new study by UK and US researchers, cats can develop a feline form of Alzheimer’s disease.

Popo in my crib News:
Is nothing sacred? Feds busted Derrick Shareef, who was plotting to set off hand grenades in at CherryVale mall in suburban Rockford, Ill, located 90 miles northwest of Chicago. Watch out Derrick, because the popo are on your tail!

Wesley Snipes was arrested in Florida on charges of tax fraud on Thursday. Snipes is charged with trying to cheat the government out of $12 million. He is scheduled to appear in court on Friday. Watch out Wesley, because the popo are on your tail!

Celebrity Tid Bits:
Congratulations to Little Big Town’s Kimberly Roads who married her boyfriend, Stephen Schlapman on Thursday. Roads lost her husband in 2005 when he had a sudden heart attack. Roads isn’t the only member of Little Big Town to get hitched this year, band members Jimi Westbrook and Karen Fairchild wed over the summer.

Tim McGraw was cast in the upcoming Paul Haggis (Crash) movie, In the Valley of Elah. He’ll be joined by Tommy Lee Jones, Charlize Theron and Susan Sarandon.

NEW COUPLE ALERT: Joel Madden and Nicole Ritchie

Tori Spelling is having a garage sale and as the flyer says, “everything must go!” Candy Spelling must be laughing about this in her creepy doll room.

R&B singer, Rihanna was announced as the newest CoverGirl. She’ll join the ranks of previous spokesmodels like Tyra Banks, Brandy as Faith Hill as well as current stars like Queen Latifah and Molly Simms.

Don’t worry, Rosie O’Donnell says she’s not leaving “The View.” Thank goodness, because besides the whole Kelly Ripa debacle, she’s been really good! Way better than Hasselbeck.

Happy Birthday shout outs to Ian Somerholder (28), Dominic Monaghan (30), Sinead O’Connor (40), Teri Hatcher (42) and Kim Basinger (53).

It’s been fun blogging with you,

Kate

December 7, 2006

I spent last night watching the “America’s Next Top Model” finale and then catching up on the “Friday Night Lights” and “My Boys” episodes I has taped Tuesday night.

BREAKING NEWS: Grammy nominations were just released. Congratulations to Mary J. Blige who picked up 8 nominations! Carrie Underwood was nominated for Best New Artist and “Jesus, Take the Wheel” was nominated for Song of the Year. The Dixie Chicks were nominated for Record of the Year for “Not Ready to Make Nice” and for Album of the Year for Taking the Long Way. Miranda Lambert was nominated for Best Female Country Performance for “Kerosene.” She’ll go up against Martina McBride for “I Still Miss Someone,” LeAnn Rimes for “Something’s Gotta Give,” Carrie Underwood for “Jesus, Take the Wheel” and Gretchen Wilson for “I Don’t Feel Like Loving You Today.” Congratulations also go out to Little Big Town who picked up Country Album of the Year nomination for The Road to Here, one of my favorite records of the year. But some of my favorite nominations go to the Pussycat Dolls who received a nomination for Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group for “Stickwitu” and the fact that the John Mayer Trio are up for Best Rock Album. Once again Grammy voters, you’re use of recreational drugs have hindered your thinking! You can find out who wins on February 7, 2007!

For a complete list of winners head over to grammy.com/GRAMMY_AWARDS/49th_show/list.aspx

Braves Update:
Foxsports.com is reporting that the Braves are interested in making a trade with the Seattle Mariners for a set up man. The Braves would send Horacio Ramirez to Seattle for Rafael Soriano. Soriano went 60 innings recording a 1-2 record with a 2.25 ERA last year.

NASCAR Update:
Brian Vickers, who jumped ship from Hendrick Motorsports to Team Red Bull, has a new crew chief, Doug Richerts. The two have something in common, they both won championships at the ripe old age of 20. Vickers won the 2003 Busch Series Championship as a driver and Richerts won the Cup Series Championship as a crew chief.

Around Sports:
Baseball
Ted Lilly reached a preliminary agreement with the Chicago Cubs for a four year, $40 million deal.

The Oakland A’s have reached an agreement with Mike Piazza for a one year, $8.5 million deal that would have Piazza replacing Frank Thomas as DH.

Randy Hendricks informed the media that his client, Andy Petite, is interested in pitching in 2007. Talks are said to be focused on the Houston Astros and New York Yankees.

The Royals traded reliever Amboirix Burgos to the New York Mets for starter Brian Bannister.

Basketball
With Texas Tech’s 66-59 win over Louisiana Tech on Wednesday, Bobby Knight tied legendary Kentucky Coach, Adolph Rupp, in wins and is now only three behind UNC Coach, Dean Smith for the all time wins leader in NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball.

Random Quote: When asked by si.com’s Pop Culture Grid what his favorite ethnic food was, Jazz guard, Deron Williams replied, “Fried Chicken and Fried Catfish.” (si.com)

Around the World:
65 years ago today, Pearl Harbor was attacked. It was on this night that my grandmother, who was attending her senior prom, learned about this attack on America. And you thought you had a crappy prom!

Marcelle Shriver of Stratford, NJ has been organizing a Silly String drive to send to Iraq. Shriver’s son, who’s currently in Iraq, told his mother that the use the Silly String to detect trip wires. They shoot the Silly String across the room and if it falls to the ground they know it’s safe to walk through, if it lingers in the air they know there are trip wires present. The trip wires are invisible to the naked eye. Currently, Ms. Shriver has 1000 cans packaged in her garage. She even received a call from the makers of Silly String, Just For Kicks, Inc, asking how they could help. Ms. Shriver also received help from a pilot who volunteered to fly the Silly String to Kuwait since the aerosol cans cannot be sent through the U.S. Post Office.

A tornado roared down the streets of London on Thursday injuring six. The twister touched down around 11 AM local time in a mostly residential area of northwest London.

Celebrity Tid Bits:
Congratulations to CariDee English on winning the seventh season of “America’s Next Top Model” edging out my favorite Melrose. So funny, because I never love the bitchy ones, but I thought overall, Melrose performed more consistently over the course of the competition and wasn’t such a loose cannon like CariDee. And Melrose’s runway walk was fierce!

TV ALERT: “The O.C.” @ 9 PM/est on Fox

TV ALERT: “Ugly Betty” and “Grey’s Anatomy” maybe repeats tonight, but “Men in Trees” is all new @ 10 PM/est on ABC!

Due to a scheduling conflict, Tim Gunn may not be able to shoot “Project Runway” season 4. He’s the only reason why I watch the first half of the episodes!

Eonline.com is reporting that Rebecca Romijn will be joining the cast of “Ugly Betty” as the woman wrapped in bandages who is scheming to take over Mode.

Rascal Flatts will be ringing in the New Year on “Dick Clarke’s Rockin’ Eve 2007.”

Rodney Atkins, Eric Church, Jack Ingram, Miranda Lambert and Taylor Swift will be performing in the New Faces show during the 2007 Country Radio Seminar on March 2, 2007.

Happy Birthday shout outs to Aaron Carter (19), Shiri Appleby (29), Larry Bird (51) and Ellen Burstyn (74).

It’s been fun blogging with you,

Kate

December 6, 2006

Sorry kids but I have to keep today’s post short!

NASCAR Update:
Congratulations to Jimmie Johnson for picking up yet another award. This time the 2006 Nextel Cup Champ was named the Driver of the Year. He beat 2006 Busch Series Champion, Kevin Harvick, Champ Car Champ, Sebastien Bourdais, IRL Champion, Sam Hornish, Jr., World of Outlaws Champion, Donny Schatz and NHRA Top Fuel Champ, Tony Schumacher.

The top 11 drivers in Nextel Cup earned a combined $89 million. Not bad, I guess I’ll take it!

Around Sports:
Baseball
Good news for the Boston Red Sox young pitcher, Jon Lester…Manager Terry Francona told the media that Lester’s doctors informed him that he is cancer free! The 22 year old went 7-2 with a 4.76 era until his was diagnosed with cancer in August. Lester is expected to be ready to play by spring training.

Congratulations to David Ortiz for picking up his fourth straight Edgar Matinez Outstanding Designated Hitter Award.

David Ortiz will be welcoming a new teammate…J.D. Drew. He signed a five year, $70 million contract with the Red Sox on Tuesday. Drew opted out of the final 3 year, $33 million left on his contract with the Dodgers earlier this fall.

Another Dodger left the nest yesterday as Greg Maddux signed with the San Diego Padres with a contract that could be worth up to $20 million. Maddux is guaranteed $10 million for the first year and has a $10 million team option for 2008. He also has a $6.5 million player option.

Basketball
Steve Nash racked up 20 assists in the Phoenix Suns 127-107 win over the Sacramento Kings on Tuesday.

Random Quote: "With respect to the ball, I take responsibility for that." - NBA Commissioner, David Stern (via si.com)

Around the World:
Mary Cheney, the daughter of Vice President, Dick Cheney is pregnant. The 37 year old and her partner, Heather Poe, are reportedly very excited for the arrival of their baby this spring. The couple has been together for 15 years.

Celebrity Tid Bits:
It’s a morning of break ups as people reports that Jenifer Aniston and Vince Vaughn have called it quits. The couple started dating in 2005 on the set of their hit movie, The Break-Up. Also people confirmed that Rachel Bilson and Adam Brody are totally dunzo. Aww!

"Lost" will be moving to 10 PM/est starting in February. ABC will air "The Knights of Prosperity" and "In Case of Emergency" during Lost’s old 9 PM time slot against the "American Idols Result Show."

Happy Birthday shout outs to former "90210" star, Lindsay Price (30).

It’s been fun blogging with you,

Kate

December 5, 2006

Last night I watch While You Were Sleeping. I had never actually seen it before, but it was so cute. I also loved the mid 90s fashions. What were thinking, bagging ill fitting clothing or short ill fitting clothing? Everything was just so wrong!

What I’m Listening to:
I finally picked up a copy of Sugarland’s newest album, Enjoy the Ride and I haven’t been able to stop listening to it. I’ve always loved lead singer, Jennifer Nettle’s voice, but I’ll admit, I was not in love with their first album, Twice the Speed of Sound. Of course, I had “Baby Girl” stuck in my head for weeks, but the rest of the album was lackluster. That’s why I am so impressed with Enjoy the Ride. It’s a rarity in this business to find an artist’s sophomore effort surpass the quality of their debut, but Sugarland broke the mold. I love the energetic tracks like “County Line,” “Settlin’” and “Everyday America” but it only takes one listen to “Stay” to hear the true magic of Sugarland, Nettle’s powerful and unique voice. Sugarland definitely raised the bar on their second album Enjoy the Ride and I’m sure you won’t be disappointed!

NASCAR Update:
NASCAR’s dreams of holding a race in New York City has hit a speed bump. International Speedway Corp (ISC) has dropped plans to build a track in Staten Island. Maybe Lesa France Kennedy (ISC President) watched “True Life: I’m from Staten Island.”

According to Scenedialy.com, Ryan Newman has a new crew chief, Mike Nelson. He’ll replace Newman’s long time crew chief, Matt Borland.

Greg Biffle and Kyle Busch will be testing tires at Las Vegas Motor Speedway on Wednesday and Thursday. This will be the first time Cup cars will be testing on the new banking, which was installed after the Cup cars raced there in March.

Around Sports:
Baseball
Chris Carpenter agreed to a five year, $63.5 million contract extension with the St. Louis Cardinals.

Former Brave, Greg Maddux, who originally looked like he would resign with the Los Angeles Dodgers, has reportedly been in talks with a different California team, the San Diego Padres. (foxsports.com)

On Monday, pitcher Vincente Padilla and the Texas Rangers reached a preliminary 3 year, $33 million deal.

Basketball
Congratulations to Dwayne Wade, who was named the Sportsman of the Year by Sports Illustrated.

Football
I don't know if you've picked up on my minor obsession with Friday Night Lights (book/movie/TV Show). The real life Friday Night Lights team, Odessa Permian lost to Southlake Carroll, 42-6 in the Class 5A Division I Region I semifinals in High School football.

Hockey
The St. Louis Blues will retire Brett Hull’s #16 tonight. Hull played for the Blues for 11 seasons included a three year stretch from 1989-92 where he scored at least 70 goals a season.

Random Recipe: Si.com asked a few athletes to make their favorite recipes. New York Giants back-up quarterback, Jared Lorenzen had this winner:

Pink Jell-O Surprise

Ingredients: Large box strawberry Jell-O; one cup boiling water; 1/2 cup cold water; one package soft cream cheese; one bag frozen strawberries.

How to make it: Prepare Jell-O per box instructions. Put in fridge to thicken. Put Jell-O, cream cheese and frozen strawberries in a blender. Put back in refrigerator until firm. Eat.
(si.com)

Around the World:
America, we’re getting healthier. A report by the United Health Foundation found American’s health was slightly improving. They also named Minnesota the healthiest state in the country for the fourth straight year. Meanwhile, New York City, not one to sit on its hands, passed a law banning Trans fats in New York City restaurants. I hope this doesn’t affect the taste of my french fries, because otherwise I’m over being healthy. (cnn.com)

Popo in my crib News:
Cincinnati Bengals Rookie Reggie McNeal was arrested for resisting arrest on Sunday in Houston. McNeal was allegedly upset that the popo would not let him into a club. Watch out Reggie, because the popo are on your tail!

Minnesota Timberwolves player, Eddie Griffin, plead guilty to inattentive driving charges on Monday. Griffin was forced to pay $375 in court fees and fines. Watch out Eddie, because the popo are on your tail!

Celebrity Tid Bits:
Congratulations to “Scrubs” star, Sarah Chalke on her engagement to long time boyfriend, Jamie Afifi.

Eddie Murphy was everywhere today. Murphy, who stars in the upcoming movie Dreamgirls, has broken off his relationship with former Spice Girl, Mel “Scary Spice” B. The couple got hot and heavy over the summer and even went on a family vacataion together. But the true Maury style drama comes from the baby Mel is carrying. Murphy has publicly questioned its paternity. Don’t cry for Murphy, who has moved on from Mel to Babyface ex, Tracey Edmonds. The couple has been dating for a month and a half. The stunning Ms. Edmonds accompanied Murphy to the New York premiere of Dreamgirls. Since his divorce, Murphy has dated “Access Hollywood” reporter, Shaun Robinson, Mel B. and now Tracey. Yikes!

Congratulations to Carrie Underwood, who picked up five Billboard Music Awards on Monday including Country Album of the Year for Some Hearts.

Rumors that Keith Urban left rehab are untrue according to Urban’s rep. Urban did leave the facility for a outing but returned shortly after. Urban entered the Betty Ford Center on October 19th.

Congratulations to Dolly Parton who received the Kennedy Center Honor on Sunday. Many of Nashville’s stars come out to pay tribute to Parton including Carrie Underwood and Kenny Rogers who performed “Islands in the Stream.” Also in attendance were Alison Krauss, Shania Twain and Vince Gill.

TV ALERT: An all new Gilmore Girls premieres on the CW at 8 PM/est. Luke and Christopher will finally duke it out. Here's hoping that Luke finally takes out Christopher once and for all!

TV ALERT: Friday Night Lights on NBC at 8 PM/est. What do I do when I'm faced with two great shows on at the same time? Tape one and watch it at 9! (Or Tivo/DVR it if you're up on the technology)

TV ALERT: If you missed last week's premiere you should be ashamed...but you can redeem yourself by checking out an all new episode of My Boys on TBS at 10 PM/est!

I’m going to cry…Life & Style is reporting "O.C." cast mates, Rachel Bilson and Adam Brody have split after two years of dating. It’s Life & Style so I don’t completely believe the news until one of their reps confirms it!

Happy Birthday shout outs to Nick Stahl (27), Margaret Cho (38) and Little Richard (74).

It’s been fun blogging with you,

Kate

December 4, 2006

This weekend began terribly with the news that Tommy Glavine was going to stay in New York. Then on Saturday, Rachel and I drove down to the Boken for Jennifer and Katherine’s birthday party. After 30 minutes of driving around looking for a parking space, we just went back home but not before stopping at an Exxon to pick up some goodies. Then yesterday I watched the Top Model Marathon on VH1 and the Giants game. I’d say the Marathon was more entertaining!

Braves Update:
The Braves have signed reliever Tanyon Sturtze to a one year, $750,000 contract. Sturtze will earn an additional $350,000 if he spends one day on the 25 man roster. Sturtze, 36, spent last year on the injured list. The Braves went into this off season looking for a pitcher to bridge the gap between the starter and closer Bob Wickman.

NASCAR Update:
Johnny Sauter will be returning to Nextel Cup next season in the #70 Chevy for Haas CNC Racing. He’ll reportedly be joined by Crew Chief, Bootie Barker. Sauter previously raced for RCR in the Cup Series in 2004.

800 runners came out to participate in the Victory Junction ½ Marathon. NASCAR Owner/Driver Michael Waltrip took part in the race coming in 355th place. With that finishing position, Waltrip was in the top half of competitors, higher than he finished during all of the Cup races this season, I’m sure!

Giants Update:
Sunday was another heartbreaker for the New York Giants after losing in the closing seconds to the Dallas Cowboys, 23-20. Eli Manning was able to lead his team down the field for a touchdown in the closing minutes. But an unexplained time out by the Giants with less than two minutes to go, gave the Cowboys enough time to get into field goal position. Martin Gramatica, who was just picked up by the Cowboys after letting Mike Vanderjagt go, kicked the game winning field goal with just 6 seconds remaining. The Giants, who had gone 5-0, have been 0-4 in their past four games, putting their hopes of a playoff spot in serious jeopardy. Not that I’m giving up on them, because I’m not!

Around Sports:
Baseball
The San Francisco Giants declined to offer arbitration to Barry Bonds, prompting Bonds’ agent to claim that the Giants are not making Barry a priority. Instead, the Giants are reportedly interested in trading for Boston hitter, Manny Ramirez. Let’s see 40 something platoon player vs. 30 something power hitter who still has a few years left in him. Besides, the Giants are used to controversial hitters.

The Boston Red Sox declined arbitration to Trot Nixon, Gabe Kapler, Doug Mirabelli and Mark Loretta. With the BoSox looking to trade Ramirez, it seems that they are truly cleaning house.

Football
With the Chicago Bears 23-13 win over the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday, the Bears clinched the AFC North title and a playoff spot in January.

Vince Young has faced both Eli and Peyton Manning in the past two weeks. After Sunday’s 20-17 win, Young can say he and his Tennessee Titans have beaten both of Archie’s boys this year.

Looks like Florida will be taking on Ohio State in the BCS Championship Bowl in January. Florida edged out Michigan, who was looking for a rematch against Ohio State after their loss earlier this year.

Meanwhile, Michigan will be taking on USC in the Rose Bowl. Louisiana Governor Blanco had been campaigning for LSU to play in the Bowl game but much like Hurricane Katrina relief efforts, she just fell short.

Popo in my crib News:
A 16 year old boy jumped to his death after escaping from a popo cruiser. Rodger Rodriguez, who had been pulled over by police for speeding and then put into the cruiser after it was determined that he had been drinking, escaped the cruiser, hopped over a cement barrier and plunged to his death in the Occoquan River, approximately 60 feet below. The teen, who was handcuffed, drowned in the River. (abcnews.com)

Around the World:
Sad news...a 9 year old boy was killed when he was hit by a float holding 20 cub scouts during his town’s annual parade. The 9 year old boy’s name was not released.

Thank goodness I stayed away from the Taco Bell this weekend. Apparently 15 people in New Jersey have been sickened by E.Coli; 11 from eating at a South Plainfield Taco Bell. The restaurant has closed down for further investigation. Did the other four really eat at the Taco Bell but are too ashamed to admit it?

Celebrity Tid Bits:
Sad news…Max, the famed pot bellied pig of two time Sexiest Man Alive actor, George Clooney, died. He was 18 years old.

Congratulations to Season 3 Project Runway contestant, Laura Bennett on the birth of her sixth child, Finn on Friday.

Whether we want her to or not, Tori Spelling will be writing a memoir. I guess the girl needs to make money some how!

Prison Break actor, Lane Garrison, was involved in a deadly car accident on Saturday. Garrison and three teens were in a SUV when it jumped the curb and crashed into a tree. A 17 year old boy was killed while the two 15 year old girls were injured. The popo are currently investigating to see who was driving at the time of the accident. I’m sorry, but why is the 26 year old Garrison in a car with 3 teens?

The top three in the box office seemed like Déjà vu as Happy Feet came in first for the third straight week. It was followed by Casino Royale and Déjà vu. The top new release of the week, The Nativity, came in fourth. The other new movies, Turistas and Van Wilder: The Return of Taj came in 8th and 10th respectively.

All you 30 Rock fans have something to celebrate after the freshman comedy was picked up for a full season by NBC.

One of my favorite country singers, Julie Roberts, will be going on tour overseas as part of CMA’s New from Nashville. She’ll hit London, Dublin, Ireland and Glasgow early next year.

Happy Birthday shout outs to Tyra Banks (33), Jay-Z (36) and Marisa Tomei (42).

Random Quote: "I'm in the worst shape ever. My trainer just shakes her head and says, 'This is a disaster.’" – Jennifer Garner to Elle (via people.com) Meanwhile, if looked like Jennifer Garner my trainer would say, wow, you’ve never been better.

It’s been fun blogging with you,

Kate

Oh Crap!

Si.com is reporting that Tom Glavine has decided to stay with the Mets. So I'm taking down your bobblehead doll from my TV and I'm officially booing you at games, Tommy...I hope you're happy!

December 1, 2006

Sorry for the late post, but I’ve been kinda busy today. Shocker for sure! Anyway, Happy FRIDAY!

NASCAR Update:
Congratulations to Dale Earnhardt, Jr. for his fourth straight Most Popular Driver of the Year Award. Junior has been sporting a phenomenal pirate look as of late with his creepy goatee. I know what he wants for Christmas, Pirates of the Caribbean 2!

Congratulations also go out to Tony Stewart who picked up the Bank of America Mid-Race Leader Award, USG Improving the Finish Award and Wix Filters Lap Leader Award. Other winners announced on Thursday included Benny Parsons for the Myers Brother Award, Denny Hamlin for the Raybestos Rookie of the Year Award, Chevrolet for the Manufacturers Championship Award, Allstate Insurance for Marketing Achievement, Kasey Kahne for Budweiser Pole Award and Mike Ford for the DirectTV Crew Chief of the Year Award!

TV ALERT: The NASCAR Nextel Cup Awards will be broadcast “live” on TNT @ 9 PM tonight (12/1/06)

Random Quote: "It's quite a compliment…I ain't never been called the best driver in anything.” –Dale Earnhardt, Jr. on being named the best driver without a championship in Nextel Cup.

Giants Update:
The Giants seemed to have a united front on Thursday when some of the team was singing Twisted Sister’s “We’re Not Going to Take it” in the locker room; an apparent statement to the media which has come down hard on Big Blue as of late. Now if only the Giants can use this impromptu karaoke moment as inspiration on the field for Sunday’s game against the NFC East division leader, Dallas Cowboys. The Giants beat the Cowboys in their previous meeting this season but that was a different team. Since then, the Cowboys have won three straight including a 21-14 win over the then undefeated Indianapolis Colts. The Giants on the other hand, have lost three in a row including a painful loss to the Tennessee Titans with 6 seconds remaining last Sunday.

New York Giants v. Dallas Cowboys: Sunday @ 4:15 PM/est on FOX

Around Sports:
Baseball
Major League Baseball commissioner, Bud Selig says he will step down when his contract expires in 2009.

Hot free agent, Barry Zito visited the Texas Rangers on Thursday. Zito originally was thought to be heading to the Mets where he would reunite with his former pitching coach, but seems more interested in reuniting with former Oakland A’s coach, Ron Washington.

Basketball
Allen Iverson might want to get a doctors note after missing a mandatory team function Wednesday. Iverson skipped out on a meet and great at a bowling alley and will likely be fined by the 76ers. Meet and great at a bowling alley, who comes up with these ideas? How about a nice restaurant, or a strip club, I’m sure if it was at a strip club Iverson would have been there! Although he would have to leave his gun at the door…

Football
The Cincinnati Bengals prevented the Baltimore Ravens from clinching a playoff spot on Thursday when they defeated the Ravens, 13-7.

Who says football players have no heart? Steelers quarterback, Ben Roethlisberger said he would donate money through his foundation for a new police dog that was killed in his hometown. Flip was shot when he wondered onto private property. (The dog even had a memorial where townspeople showed up to give their last respects. I guess not much goes on there, huh?) The last police dog purchased by the county cost $15,000.

Hockey
Two kids were taken to the hospital on Thursday after they were sprayed with shattered plexiglass during an Ottawa Senators game. That will teach them to sit in the front row of a hockey game.

Popo in my crib News:
Wisconsin cornerback, Jack Ikewuono and his brother, Northern Illinois safety, Bill were arrested for allegedly trying to steel an Xbox. The boys face charges of residential burglary and criminal trespassing. Watch out Jack and Bill because the popo are on your tail!

Celebrity Tid Bits:
Congratulations to Eva Longoria and Tony Parker on their engagement!

Another athlete/quasi celeb engagement...Congrats to Willa Ford and Dallas Stars Mike Modano.

Count Sandra Bullock and Jennifer Garner as stars who are not pregnant.

People is reporting that Lindsay Lohan is attending AA meetings. Her rep says this will be a very slow process. Ah yes, becuase those trips to Hyde and other hot spots will really interfer with her staying sober.

TV ALERT: Little Big Town and Lindsey Buckingham meet at the Crossroads on CMT @ 8 PM/est on Saturday.

Happy Birthday shout outs to Bette Midler (61) and Woody Allen (71).

Random Celebrity Citing: Rachael Ray in a Prius driving down 59th Street right passed Bloomingdales in New York City. Discuss, discuss!

It’s been fun blogging with you,

Kate