Pierce Mattie Public Relations New York & Los Angeles

Once considered the sexiest man alive, Patrick Swayze has fallen off the radar since his huge success with Dirty Dancing and Ghost, opting for smaller roles in such cult films as Donnie Darko (2001). Now revving up for a comeback with films like Keeping Mum and Fox & the Hound II, with Reba McEntire, Swayze is going back to his Dirty Dancing roots by returning to the studio to record a rap song. According to New York Post’s Page Six, Swayze reportedly told website allhiphop.com he is working on a track that will show that "rap rhythms are an emotional undercurrent for ballads." And while I’d gladly call him “Diddy” any night, I think his musical antics are more in tune with a Mariah-meltdown (no offense to Mariah…the new album is probably her best yet). I’m sure like me, everyone else is curious to see what the follow-up to She’s Like the Wind will be. I personally would rather listen to Reba. But hey, "No one can put Swayze in a corner."

But Anderson isn't hosting the Oscars this year. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has asked comedian Jon Stewart to host this years Academy Awards. I can’t tell you how happy I am to have my celebrity crush hosting this event. I have been a fan of Jon Stewart since “The Jon Stewart Show” in the 90’s. His talent and sense of humor will bring new vigor and energy to the Oscars, which has run through their usual staid rotation of hosts: Billy Crystal, Steve Martin, Whoopi Goldberg and Chris Rock.

It’s almost like the story of the three bears, but in this case five bears. Billy Crystal is Grandpa Bear and should be put to pasture because we’re tired of the same old jokes. Steve Martin is Suburban Tract Home Daddy Bear and he’s too old school to appeal to the younger audiences. Whoopi Goldberg is Big Mama Bear and is too warm and fuzzy, plus sometimes we just don’t get her. Chris Rock is Bad News Bear who is too irreverent and alienates older viewers. And that leaves the very funny, always debonair, exceptionally handsome and my personal comic hero Jon Stewart as the Da Bear to host the Oscars.

Jon Stewart “Da Bear” has a wry sense of humor that will appeal to the older audience but with timely material and a youthful exuberance that appeals to younger viewers. Plus, I know of plenty of viewers who will be watching just because of their celebrity crush on him, including myself.

Anderson, this changes nothing about my crush on you. You're still my favorite CNN reporter ever.

Teri Hatcher step back…the real Lois Lane is a true fashionista. She’s not desperate, not a housewife and by the way she’s Black! If McDonald’s can share Black History 365 days a year, than I can certainly blog about it once a week! So, I’m preparing for NY Fashion Week ALREADY and decided to see if there were any new urban designers on the forefront; anyone that I should have my eye on as I am, indeed a “new business pitching machine”. I instead came across a bit of history that epitomizes the spirit of the beauty of the African- American woman.

When Avril Levigne hit the scene in 2002, she was the antithesis of everything glamorous. In heavily lined eyes and baggy fatigue pants, she poked her tongue out at mainstream notions of beauty and flipped a bird to the TRL cookie-cutter for pop star images. She told teens it was ok to be different, rockerish, and roguish even. Her music, her style and her attitude represented the restlessness felt by her generation and refused to conform the way many of her peers did. When she released “I’m With You,” grown-ups listened to it and paid attention. Her attitude had captured the youth, but it was her voice- strong, versatile, and beautiful- that garnered the respect of older listeners. Then she disappeared from the radar. But she’s back, grown up and all dolled up- on the pages of the February issue of Harper’s Bazaar, no less!

Thank the Lord for Brad's Blog yesterday as he tailgates video of Bush with his foot in his mouth on movies at a univeristy QnA.

College Student asked:
You're a rancher. A lot of us here in Kansas are ranchers. I just wanted to get your opinion on Brokeback Mountain and if you had seen it yet... You would love it. You should check it out.

Presdient replied:
Bush: I hadn't seen it. I would be glad to talk about ranchin' but I haven't seen the movie... I've heard about it... I hope you go.. you know.. heh, heh.. I hope you go back to the ranch and the farm is what I was going to say... I hadn't seen it.

You can watch the video here

Mario Lemieux, one of the greatest hockey players to ever lace up a pair of skates has bid his final farewell today, and this time it’s for good. Walking away from the game that has given him such great success and hardships, Mario is retiring due to health reasons. Over the past 17 seasons, Lemieux has been plagued with cancer, back problems, major hip problems, and the latest, heart complications.

Oprah has helped dozens of authors turn their literary products into bestsellers in a matter of an hour. Through her legendary Book Club, Oprah has brought her loyal viewers to a literary high with tear-jerkers, enlightening and memoirs. Her latest addition to the Oprah Book Club, “A Million Little Pieces” is a memoir of author James Frey’s addition and recovery. After being well embraced on Oprah, Frey divulged the audience in his bodily addictions and his eventual emotional ride to recovery.

Frey received raves about the book and a few questioned the validity. As a guest on “Larry King Live,” Frey was questioned about the extreme cases of addition and survival. As a saving angel, Oprah telephoned into the station to support him and labeled the alleged embellishments as “much ado about nothing.”

Stunning audiences worldwide, Oprah once again invited Frey to her daytime show. Moved to tears and overall disgusted, Oprah seemed hurt that he not only “duped” her but also her viewers who she refers to as her family in believing in him. "I feel duped," Winfrey told Frey on her talk show. "But more importantly, I feel that you betrayed millions of readers."

Frey’s response: “In order to get through the experience of the addition, I thought of myself as being tougher than I was and badder than I was, and it helped me cope,” commented Frey. “And when I was writing the book, instead of being as introspective as I should have been, I clung to that image.”

What does this mean for Frey? Don’t lie – especially to Oprah Winfrey! Duh! The future of his career seems tough but his book sales have not suffered as of writing. His book, selling over 1 million copies (Thank You Ms. Winfrey!) is still in the top five selling books for Amazon.com. Frey has recently signed a two-book contract with Riverhead Books for a novel about contemporary Los Angeles in 2007. All in all – Frey is making money and has received so much press in the last few weeks that this little fictional memoir seems like it was worth the embellishments. Haven’t we all “embellished” a little? Bottom line – I’m more interested in this memoir than I was after Oprah’s first discussion.

Angelina Jolie has been chosen as People Magazine’s cover choice for the annual “100 Most Beautiful People” issue which hits newsstands today across the country. The beautiful actress has experienced quite a year in the media spotlight and not always for positive reasons. Her pregnancy, adoptions and charitable work have painted a beautiful picture of a mother, a strong woman and a kind and honorable woman. Yet, did we forget how she bedded a married man and contributed to the destruction of a marriage? I think Angelina is physical perfection — her lips, eyes, skin, that body! She exudes a sensuality and femininity that is very rare among idolized women today but when I look at her, I can’t help but think of poor Jennifer Aniston and what she did to her. It makes me sick…and don’t get me wrong, Brad is just as guilty! His presence was not absent from the list and others included are George Clooney, Halle Berry, Scarlett Johansson and Ryan Seacrest.

What I want to know is did Jennifer Aniston make the list?

About a week and a half before Cinco de Mayo 2006, I received an invitation from one of my favorite personal publicists, her client; Jeremy Piven was there to party with all for this joyous holiday. I got right on the phone and RSVPed for myself plus hmmm, I think six should be enough.

Last night’s showdown on American Idol began with the first ever reality television series red carpet. The contestants and judges arrived dressed to the double nines with hair and makeup prepared to impress. The fifth season of Idol demonstrates its growing popularity and marks a new impact on American pop culture. Over 75 million votes came in for the final results; more than any US president has received in history. The contestants received extreme fashion advice, attention, and image-altering publicity. So what does this say about American pop and fashion culture?

Princess Margaret, the younger sister of Queen Elizabeth was adored by the media and press during her 71 fabulous and royal years. Four years after her death, Princess Margaret’s personal jewelry and accessories collection travels around the world before going up for auction in London.

Some pieces include a necklace she wore as a toddler to the tiara she walked down the aisle with. The collection tour included jewelry, art, personal items and Faberge pieces. Visitors had the opportunity to drop their jaws in Moscow, Hong Kong, Geneva, and New York. The collection will be dispersed at the sale in London on June 13th and 14th and the prices will not be quite that cheap.

This one-of-a-kind history making sale, organized by Christie’s Jewelry, will feature over 200 royal touched pieces and over 600 other pieces of fur furnituree, china, decorative items, and accessory boxes. The pre-sale tour was designed to strike a buzz in interest, converting to higher sales. Christie’s expects to bring in several million dollars from the exclusive sale. For example, her wedding Poltimore Tiara, worn at Westminster Abbey during the first ever televised broadcast royal wedding, will pull in about $350,000. Other pieces include a sapphire and diamond brooch with a handwritten note from Queen Mary on her confirmation day as well as as the many ruby gems that adorned the royal style of princess Margaret throughout her life.

The revenue from this sale will go towards Britain’s steep death or estate taxes. Her children will be hosting and conducting this once in a lifetime sales event. “Christie’s are honored to have been instructed to sell jewelry and works of art from the private collection of H.R.H. The Princess Margaret, Countess of Snowdon,” said Francois Curiel, deputy chairman of Christie’s and international head of jewelry. “We will stage an auction that pays tribute to her glamorous style and beauty.”

When American Idol contestant Taylor Hicks, 29 years old, was recently named the next American Idol, many viewers rejoiced, but perhaps none as loudly as those with gray hair. In one interview following his win, Hicks noted, “I didn't have any idea that America would embrace gray hair as much as they have."

Although Hicks is only 29, his gray hair has touched a cord with many older folks. Most notably, the baby boomers who are nearing the retirement age and struggling to accept the inevitable signs of old age, have been inspired by Hicks’ choice to not dye his hair. According to a recent article in the Los Angeles Times, Hick’s win can be viewed as an indication that Americans are embracing the mantra that for men, “it is okay to be gray.”

It was a wonderful night of singing and dancing at the 60th Annual Tony Awards.

The History Boys triumphed winning six awards, including Best Play. The History Boys actually hold the record for the most Tony Awards ever given to a play. Also winning Best Actress in a play this year from History Boys was Frances de la Tour, whom you might recognize as the huge tall giant in the last Harry Potter movie.

Jersey Boys rightfully won for Best Musical. John Lloyd Young from Jersey Boys won Best Actor in a musical and LaChanze from the Color Purple won Best Actress in a musical.

Although there a many stars on Broadway, the most famous of all celebrities graced the stage with her presence…Oprah Winfrey. Oprah is one of the producers for the Color Purple and although her musical did not win the “Best Musical” trophy, she can be relaxed knowing The Color Purple already has a two year sold out run.

As I headed last night to and from different Tony parties, I was able to congratulate and even meet a couple of my inspirations…no I didn’t get to meet Oprah this time. At one time last night, Julia Roberts was five feet away from me on one side and on the other Chita Rivera. It was quite an experience. I respect the Tony Awards more than any other award given. When you’re on stage in front of hundreds of people, you can’t ask the director to stop the camera. Please remember to support the arts and try to see all of these Tony award winning musicals this year.

If you are like any other fabulous New Yorker, you probably won’t be sitting on your sofa munching on Funyons and watching tonight’s highly anticipated Dateline interview with Britney Spears. So set your Tivo and watch it when you get home because it will be all the rage around the water cooler tomorrow! It has been months since Spears’ last televised interview as she has been trying to keep a low profile since being a new mom. Sorry Britney, but discretion has never been on your side and the world won’t give up on finding out what has been going on behind closed doors.

Spears has received much scrutiny over her parenting skills, her marriage and if she’s got another bun in the oven (yes, she does!) and it’s amazing she hasn’t had a nervous breakdown. Apparently we will see her come close in tonight’s interview with NBC hottie Matt Lauer. As she tries to tell America that she’s part of the common folk, trying to raise a child and have a successful marriage, she breaks into tears. Nice theatrics!

I have to say that I really feel bad for her though. Imagine being a young mother for the first time, which women do everyday, and being nervous and afraid that you won’t be able to raise your child right, all while being examined under the paparazzi microscope? I know I wouldn’t be able to take it. Hang in there Britney!

Catch the interview tonight at 9:00 p.m. Eastern on NBC.

On Wednesday, the house of Gucci held a show for all to view the new Cruise Collection. I must say praise the Lord for Frida Giannini! I haven’t seen Gucci look this fabulous since Tom Ford was there (tear!) While I think Ford was one of the best designers this house has seen, Giannini is certainly on her way. Do we even remember who that designer in between was? I don’t, all I know was it was not good, hence, the reason she only lasted a year. Luckily, t he media only had great things to say about Gianni’s latest triumph. I look forward to seeing many more collections from this talented designer. I predict her name will become parallel to Tom Ford’s in five years. Write it down people!

The collection was an ode to St. Tropez, 60’s style—I loved it. Prints were nautical and floral all in one—other than Oscar de la Renta, it was my favorite cruise collection this season. My favorite pieces were the shorts, peasant dresses and short skirts. It was orgasmic just looking at the collection, click after click, the perfect look, the perfect dress, the perfect shorts! If only I were a rich socialite who could order all of it! I would be on a yacht, drenched in Gucci. So, if any of you readers out there would like to send me some items from the cruise collection—go right ahead! You can send them to the office www.piercemattie.com

As a part-time writer, I’m familiar with the cons of the publishing industry. Pitching stories to magazines, only to have the door slammed in your face and then later see your idea in the same magazine is an all too common occurrence. Sometimes I wish more magazines took the time to listen to new writers while developing feature ideas. But wait, there is one magazine that is doing just that!

For the past year - since Brandon Holley started as editor-in-chief - JANE magazine has been holding regular meetings for young writers, usually female college students, to help give them some insight into the publishing world.

“We started having the [pizza] dinners at the office when I first started, but they've become more intense lately,” says Holley. “We're actually up to a dinner a week. My staffers love me for keeping them past six so often.”

When asked if they have beer with their pizza, Holley responded, “You know, we don't do beer...but we could do beer. You're right. We should have beer!”

Just how do you get a sit down session with the editor in chief of one of the hottest magazines out there? Simply log onto the website HERE, or write into the magazine. Also, check out this months issue, featuring Anne Hathaway from The Devil Wears Prada. If you still want more, check out the "Behind-the-Scenes" exclusive from her photo shoot, and hear Anne dish about her fear of pizza deliverymen. You can view the clip at JaneMag.com.

Read more from Jossip’s interview with Brandon Holley be clicking HERE.

Kate Moss is back at Burberry. The fashion house scrapped a campaign featuring the supermodel last year following tabloid accusations that she had used drugs.

Moss, 32, appears in a white lace trench coat at the center of Burberry's main autumn-winter 2006-2007 ad, one in a series launched Monday to celebrate the company's 150th anniversary.

The black-and-white ads, shot against London cityscapes by Mario Testino, feature British cultural icons and their offspring, including 1960s model Penelope Tree and actor Max Irons, son of Jeremy Irons.

Burberry distanced itself from Moss in September, after The Daily Mirror published pictures of her allegedly using cocaine. The company dropped plans for her to appear in its fall 2005 campaign, and posters featuring Moss were removed from its flagship store.

When Hollywood comes calling, Ruby Lane answers. The leading online retailer of vintage and antique goods has been providing props for some of the biggest summer blockbusters of 2006. Starting with Superman Returns and now onto Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest, RubyLane.com has been offering unique, hard-to-find accessories that are making these Hollywood sets look more authentic.

Check out the pieces used for Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest by clicking HERE. These huge cast iron pots along with the cast iron pot holder (pictured above) were used throughout many of the pirates’ scenes.

Pierce Mattie PR is proud to announce the newest addition to our growing family. Coming to us straight from Wisteria Lane is Desperate Housewives: The Game. Based on the hit television series, the video game, which will launch this holiday season, will allow players to live all the gossip, drama and intrigue of a true desperate housewife. The “lifestyle simulation” format lets the player(s) decide if they want to be naughty or nice, single or married, have children or not, and more, all while unraveling the secrets hiding behind closed doors.

Brenda Strong, who voices deceased housewife Mary Alice Young on the show, will reprise her role for the game that is being developed by Buena Vista Games, in partnership with ABC Entertainment and Touchstone Television.

We will be doing an introductory launch at our annual Holiday Market Event where editors will be among the first on the block to play the game. We will be releasing more details soon.

Quite a few years ago, around the time when John Singleton’s Higher Learning hit theaters, I was walking through my local mall when I heard a group of teens approaching me. “Is that her?” one asked. “Yeah it is,” someone said. “Ask her!” I heard another one say. Honestly, I almost took flight in fear that I was going to be attacked. However, I was relieved, flattered and tickled all in the same moment when one boldly stepped up and asked, “Are you that girl from Higher Learning?” The flattery came from the fact that the woman of which she spoke was Tyra Banks. The feeling was bittersweet though, because while I was glad to be mistaken for someone so gorgeous, I had always thought Ms. Banks was a bit fake.

In her various acting roles, personal appearances, and more recently on her talk show, she's had this way of trying to act “ghetto”, and it was always very clearly an act. I always wondered why she couldn’t just “keep it real.” Well, recently she greatly increased her reality quotient. Yes, she still does the attempted ghetto talk. However, she has taken a stand against the artificiality of her industry. She has decided that she doesn’t want any of her photos retouched. From now on, it’s totally up to her fake hair and make up to keep her looking great. At a time when more and more magazine covers and photos are beginning to look cartoonish due to all the retouching. It’s refreshing to see someone who will openly discuss her “flaws” tell photo editors to leave her pictures alone. Thank you, Tyra.

Target announced its next designer for their Go! International series. This series has been a compilation of high fashion talent from abroad. First in this series, was edgy fashionista, the British Luella Bartley and this spring was French sensation, Tara Jarmon, and still to come this summer is France's ever popular Paul&Joe.

The world has been waiting, or at least I have, for the next installment in the series. None other than the one of the newest, talented, designers: Behnaz Sarafpour! How exciting! I mean really. Behnaz Sarafpour sold to the mass markets. I really love the idea behind this initiative. Not only do these international designers get more exposure in the American market but it also gives those who are unable a chance to get a taste of fashion at its finest. Not every American household can afford that pricey Marc Jacobs handbag or Gucci platforms, it's nice to see a balance in an industry in which does so seldom exist.

America needs to see what fashion really is, it's more than just clothes and labels, it is art, it is innovative creativity. I think this tends to be lost anywhere outside of Manhattan, LA or Europe. I know that my parents and family have no idea what I do and think I get to play in clothes and make up and accessories all day long. They see it as, dare I say the word, frivolous! Fun, it may be, but frivolous, never. Target, while trying to expand their numbers in fashion retail (which was the largest money earner for them in 2005) is doing much more than just sales. They are opening the eyes to all consumers out there who had no clue who Luella Bartley was. I hope this new breed of fashion savvy consumers will learn to truly understand the elements of this industry. No, we don't all get jobs like LC or get to walk in a Teen Vogue fashion show just because one of the models was a no show and being a fashion assistant is not always as glamorous as Anne Hathaway leads us to believe. Let's get back to basics when fashion was new and fresh and Mary Quant was making a statement while Kenzo kept fashion full of art. Let's think about how to make the industry a little more inspiring, ala Target. Who knows, this could be the beginning of a much larger fashion movement for us all!

It seems like Naomi Campbell has yet other complaint against her ... Assault on another employee that resulted in physical as well as emotional damage. What's wrong with her? More importantly, why hasn't her publicist gone into overdrive on crisis management? My pr advice for NC:

1. Develop a pr campaign that removes attention from your erratic behavior and focuses on a caring side: set up a camp for overweight teenagers.

2. Set up a charity fund that donates to battered women showing the world that you really care.

3. Schedule SNL spoof on behavior.

4. Travel to third world countries and set up a fashion show for underprivileged youth.

5. Press announcement revealing spouts of delirium that causes emotional distress and breakouts.

There’s no denying it. Brandon Routh, the star of Superman Returns, has one of the hottest bodies ever before seen in tights. But if you loose the red and blue Halloween costume, what would a glimpse at the “Man of Steel,” wearing nothing more than a smile, be worth to you? According to an insider cited by In Touch, Playgirl magazine is prepared to pay upwards of $500,000 to have Routh pose nude in an upcoming issue.

“Brandon’s gorgeous, and the editors noticed,” the insider says. “He has the body and face of a Greek god.” Unforunately for adoring women everywhere, Routh has yet to accept.

“Brandon’s from the Midwest,” the insider says. “He’s not that comfortable with nudity.”

In Touch notes that the Routh did appear half-naked in a 1997 high school play in Des Moines, Iowa. Appearing half-naked and going completely nude are two completely different things. I would suggest Routh talk to former Hollywood heart-throb Christopher Atkins. Posing nude for Playgirl did little to jump start his career, but then again, he was naked virtually the entire time during The Blue Lagoon, so we had already seen it all.

The world has been patiently waiting since mid-April for the unveiling of America’s Hollywood royalty, Suri Cruise, to much disappointment. Suspiciously no photos, sightings or confirmations that anyone besides the “happy couple” has even laid eyes on her have been brought to the attention of the public. My suspicions are as follows.

Sugar, spice and warm apple pie; the Food Network has all the ingredients it takes for some of the most sensual cooking on TV today. But ordinarily, the buttery confections from Paula Dean’s kitchen don’t conjure up thoughts of sex for me. Leave it to Details magazine to marry the two together.

In an article entitled “Food Network or Spice Network,” the magazine compares the “climactic” smiles of celebrity chefs enjoying their sinful dishes to those of famous porn stars enjoying their happy desserts. And while I still think this is a bit of a reach, I can definitely understand how Giada De Laurentiis could keep you moaning for more…Italian that is. Then again, Rachael Ray can always show you how to have a good time for $40 A Day or less.

For more on this story, check out the August issue of Details on newsstands now.

Brad Pitt should really stick to his day job.

This past week we saw a barrage of images and TV clips displaying a dressed-down Pitt surveying the disastrous remnants of hurricane Katrina in New Orleans. If you were lucky enough to see more than just b-roll of the Pitt-ster, you would have heard how disappointed he is in the lack of change in horrendous conditions still throughout much of New Orleans, even a year later. Pitt says that he was shocked at the “staggering” conditions still in disarray. Shocked, eh?

Well, of course you would be shocked, Brad. You’ve spent the better part of 2006 on a private jet with Angelina Jolie. Had you gone to New Orleans soon after the disaster like the true altruist you claim to be, then maybe you wouldn’t be so shocked a year later at what a mess the place still is. And if your next thought was to start pointing fingers at the federal government for not coughing up sufficient funds to clean the place up, don’t even think it – you probably have more money than the federal government, so why don’t you cut the city of New Orleans a check yourself? In his defense, Pitt did mention that he was going to start sharing some of his vast movie star wealth with those in need. But are you cutting that check before or after you leave to start filming Ocean’s 11 Three?

In case that contrast isn’t clear enough, I can spell it out – Pitt did his sympathetic PR trip to New Orleans, showing that he is just as concerned about the world around him as Angelina. As soon as his most recent insanely large pay check cashes though, he will probably go buy a private island for his new family to vacation on.

Let us not forget that this is the man that just a year ago orchestrated that uber-hyped and over-stylized W Magazine spread with the woman he left his wife for. A year before that he was playing architect on a home that was worth over $20 million. If not in Majorca dressed as Achilles, he was on a yacht throwing back champagne cocktails with George Clooney a year before that.

Brad’s better half has made it a point in the last five years to anchor her celebrity for good causes. Angelina’s relief work and dedication to helping the lost children of the world is a sincere and heartfelt ambition. I hate to think that Brad is just in New Orleans because that is what his current relationship dictates, but I’m at a loss for any other explanation. It’s a plus to see a celebrity think of those in need as opposed to themselves for a bit, but it is becoming a bit trendy.

Next up: Paris Hilton and Nicole Richie head to Lebanon to patch up both their friendship and Hezbollah-torn Beruit in the Simple Life 5.

The Association of Travel Marketing Executives (ATME) recognized some of the most progressive companies in travel and marketing and awarded its Lifetime Achievement Award during the 26th annual ATLAS Awards. The ceremony, sponsored by Discover Network, was held during the 2006 ATME Annual Conference on May 22-24 in Las Vegas.

The ATME Atlas Awards were first awarded in 1980 to honor leaders and innovators within the travel industry who have displayed breakthrough thinking and leadership in marketing. Categories recognize executives and companies for innovative tactics, results-oriented programs and broad marketing vision.

ATME presented the ATLAS Lifetime Achievement Award to David Neeleman, Founder and CEO of JetBlue Airways. This prestigious award is presented to individuals who consistently distinguish themselves as marketing leaders and have advanced the travel industry worldwide.

Where can you drive down the street see mostly naked models, be hypnotized and find a cure for alcoholism? Sunset Strip, of course and I am not referring to a Friday night. As I drive to and fro work, I am consistently entertained by the billboards on Sunset Blvd. I am greeted daily by a male model’s derriere, a cartoon character exclaiming, “I pooted!” and information on a new type of cure for alcoholism?

Like many other Angelenos, while driving I am so consumed with getting to my next destination I rarely look at anything but the persons’ bumper in front of me. But, while in traffic on the Sunset Strip, I took the time to look up. The first thing I see is the beautiful bare backside of a male model, if traffic wasn’t running so slowly I wouldn’t have even noticed the chick in the background beginning to undress and the logo for Joe’s Jeans. I will have to say that this is probably my favorite billboard, who doesn’t enjoy a man’s butt first thing in the morning, definitely something I can handle before my Starbuck’s.

After the fifteen minutes were up on his near launch into the cosmos, I never thought I would here about Lance Bass again. But, this week he proved me wrong. Yes everyone, the news is out, Lance is gay and no one can stop talking about it. Evidently, he is in a “stable relationship” with Reichen Lehmkuhl, who won season four of Amazing Race. Having Reichen by his side, must have spurred Lance to come out of the closet. Since, Reichen is just too sexy to hide away. The former member of ‘N Sync says, “I don't think it's wrong, I'm not devastated going through this. I'm more liberated and happy than I've been my whole life.” If I bagged Reichen, I would be saying the same thing.

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The year was 1995. The look was plaid pleated skirts, patent leather Mary Janes, and thigh high socks. The inspiration? Clueless. Not long ago, girls everywhere were buying everything at Bloomingdales in attempts to copy Cher’s Channel wardrobe. Nearly eleven years later a new summer movie has influenced trends. 2006’s version of Clueless? A surprising answer, Pirates of the Caribbean.

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Sometimes I find myself in dire need of some mindless television to take the edge off. This last Sunday I took the time to watch the first episode of Flavor Flav’s show The Flavor of Love 2. Yes, I was expecting to be entertained, but I never thought I would anticipate the next episode. This was until “Somethin’,” Flav appointed all the contestants nick names, pushed one out on the mansion’s marble staircase. And to boot, after punching around “H-Town” around for messing up her $800 weave, “Saaphyri” was on her knees begging the lord for forgiveness for “whoopin’ this white girl’s ass.” After this, I was hooked.

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I was over a girlfriend’s place the other night. Bored and penniless, we decided to watch a DVD from her collection. Since it was my turn to pick out the movie, I walked over to the DVD shelf. As I was skimming through the titles, I noticed something quite bizarre. Not only did she have each individual season of Sex and the City, but she also had the complete six seasons set. Her explanation was that they were different, because the latter was sold as one “special complete set.” After I told her she was ridiculous, and should get her head checked, I realized that HBO is probably making a killing off of people like her.

Celebrity gifting has long been a part of award shows and new product launches in hopes of the famous using products for advertising. Every year I always hear about the gift baskets at the Oscars or the MTV awards and wondered - do they ever use any of it? I hope so! But, I've never wondered if the celebs get taxed on any of it. There's often thousands and thousands of dollars worth of products, services, and vacations in these big award show baskets and the celebrities get them for free. Now the IRS is hounding the stars down for all the taxable goodies they've received.

For all the past Oscar show gift bags, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences will pay the taxes on all the giftings through 2005. But, starting at this year's Oscars, celebrities will have to report the value of any gifts received on their tax returns. Does that mean that celebrities will have to report products gifted to them from publicists?

Other celebrities have taken another route with their gift baskets. George Clooney donated last year's gift basket to United Way which helped them raise over $45,000. Guess he didn't need it after winning "Best Supporting Actor" for "Syriana."

Just weeks after Star Jones was fired from her popular daytime talk show, The View, the man with the million dollar smile, Tom Cruise, has been dropped from his 14-year production deal with