Friday, November 30
George Harrison, Beatles' quiet lead guitarist, dead at age 58
(Updated Friday at 11:57 a.m.) George Harrison, the "quiet Beatle" who added rock 'n' roll flash and a touch of the mystic to the band's timeless magic, has died. He was 58.
Genteel home town quietly mourns the "quiet Beatle"
He was known as the "quiet Beatle," but for residents of the prosperous town where George Harrison lived for almost three decades, affection for him--as a musician and a neighbor--ran deep.
Musicians react to Harrison's death
ex-Beatle shared other musical partnerships
Though he was part of pop music's most storied group, George Harrison formed significant and memorable partnerships with other musicians, including Ravi Shankar, Bob Dylan and Eric Clapton.
Paul McCartney mourns his 'baby brother' and Beatles bandmate George Harrison
The two surviving Beatles mourned George Harrison Friday as "a best friend" and a "baby brother," and flags were lowered in Liverpool where the band was born. "He was a lovely guy and a very brave man and had a wonderful sense of humor," McCartney told reporters outside his London home. "He is really just my baby brother."
'A very big part of my life': Fans gather at Strawberry Fields to pay respects to Harrison
Fans gathered before dawn Friday to pay their respects to former Beatle George Harrison at Strawberry Fields, the section of Central Park dedicated to the memory of John Lennon. Harrison, 58, died Thursday of lung cancer in Los Angeles. News of his death became public early Friday, and within hours dozens of Beatle enthusiasts headed to the park for an impromptu memorial. Many left flowers, candles and notes at a makeshift shrine, while others paused to reflect before continuing to or from work.
People
Princess Diana's former butler to stand trial on theft charges Pia Zadora files for divorce Clooney plots to undo Damon 'Rings' star berates the Bible
Mrs. Bush, scholars, celebrate Mark Twain
Gathering in the East Room with teachers, students and literary scholars, first lady Laura Bush presided over what seemed like a White House book club Thursday two hours of studying, interpreting and celebrating author Mark Twain.
John Knowles, author of 'A Separate Peace,' dies
Author John Knowles, whose "A Separate Peace" has been read by millions of students and is considered an enduring study of an adolescent's inner conflict, died Thursday after a short illness. He was 75.
Controversial videos on defensive
The rap continues over the rap and music videos featured on Black Entertainment Television, or BET.
'The Grinch' DVD rakes in the green
As "Harry Potter" dominated the box office, a family film from Thanksgiving past was snatching up the green on the home video front.
Something in the way he moved them
Paul McCartney called him "my baby brother." A fan thought him "quiet and nice and powerful." Musicians and music lovers on Friday mourned the death of George Harrison, the "quiet Beatle" who fit in famously, if not always happily, alongside his more colorful bandmates.
Downtown 'boutique' shop adds to clothing lines
Company: Saffees, 911 Mass.
Thursday, November 29
THE MAG: Film Review - 'Sidewalks of New York'
'Sidewalks of New York' portrays a joyless existence within a vibrant city
By Dan Lybarger With the millions of folks who live in the Big Apple, it is astonishing that "Sidewalks of New York" writer-director Edward Burns has managed to find the five or six least engaging people to waste 107 minutes on. After his enjoyable debut with "The Brothers McMullen," Burns seems to have forgotten everything that made his first film memorable (likable characters and snappy dialogue) and inadvertently winds up insulting the title city.
People
Hitting the slopes Heated debate over film DUI conviction Keeping out of jail
2001 People's Choice nominees announced
Tom Hanks and Denzel Washington lead the nominees for this year's People's Choice Awards. The actors were nominated in the favorite film actor and favorite dramatic actor categories, but no particular performances were specified.
Imaginary trial of bin Laden rushed to air tonight
After today, and the people at Court TV can stop sweating the Osama bin Laden hunt. The network's one-hour documentary imagining a trial for the terrorist thought to be the mastermind behind the Sept. 11 attacks is being rushed to television tonight, rescheduled from Dec. 6.
'Millionaire' fortunes fade
ABC executives show pointed lack of confidence in game show
In a measure of how far "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire" has fallen, ABC executives on Wednesday refused to guarantee that the game show that made the network a fortune two years ago will be back next fall.
THE MAG: Arts Notes
Grizzell's screenprints in Wichita show Decorated trees go on display today Nelson-Atkins to light Christmas tree Author to talk about Wounded Knee
THE MAG: Geometry in the john
Chris Messer is so devoted to art he'll show it anywhere
By Mitchell J. Near Chris Messer's artistic career is in the toilet and he wants it that way.
THE MAG: Organized chaos
An amnesiac searches for memories with help of several oddballs in Unicorn's 'Fuddy Meers'
By Mitchell J. Near It's relatively easy to explain the plot twists in the Unicorn Theatre's new production of "Fuddy Meers." The play is a lot like the movie "Memento," if that movie had been filmed by a cast and crew who were constantly chewing on hallucinogenic mushrooms.
THE MAG: Out of Bounds - War of the weekend wrestlers
Members of the Central States Wrestling league strive for competition on their own terms
By Seth Jones It's relatively quiet in Lenexa for a Saturday night. Of course, I am on a secluded back road. I pull my car up to the Amos Family Funeral Home. Surely I'm not in the right place, but there's a ton of vehicles parked here, as if someone really important died.
THE MAG: A century of treasures
Walt Disney's 100th birthday commemorated
By Dan Lybarger Before he died in 1966, former Kansas Citian Walter Elias Disney left an astonishingly prolific and diverse legacy. In addition to his obvious achievements as a cartoon mogul, he was a talented educator, World War II propagandist and an important pioneer for films, television, marketing and amusement parks. With Mickey Mouse, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs and dozens of other Disney-supervised creations as part of the international vernacular, it's sometimes difficult to believe that, as of Dec. 5, he was born a mere 100 years ago.
THE MAG: Film Review - 'Behind Enemy Lines'
'Behind Enemy Lines' adds firepower to its familiar action-movie premise
By Loey Lockerby A young maverick, working for a government institution, goes on an unauthorized mission and gets caught in enemy territory. His smart, straight-talking mentor defies his own superiors and mounts a rescue attempt, using everything from the news media to military hardware to achieve his goal.
THE MAG: Spinning the Web - Spam, spam, spam, spam
Columnist seeks multiple ways to avoid drowning in an ocean of junk e-mail
By Michael Newman I have always depended on the kindness of strangers, and these days they're being way too kind to me. Every day I receive a steady flow of electronic missives from folks who are concerned for my well-being. These fine people are interested in my financial future, hairline, job satisfaction, erectile function, breast size, penis size, waist size and access to low-cost ink jet cartridges.
THE MAG: Marginalized musicians
Forgotten stories of World War II's all-girl bands featured in KU prof's new book
By Mitchell J. Near All-girl bands have been around since the glory days of the 1920s, when bathtub gin flowed freely in illegal speakeasies. It was an unholy alliance: Powerful men got booze and great jazz, while also being able to gaze at pretty women onstage. And the female musicians got one more chance to play the music they loved, even if they were looked down upon for performing what was considered traditional, masculine music.
THE MAG: Cover Story - The inferno
KC's Tech N9ne takes listeners on drive through his private hell
By Geoff Harkness No one ever said being a superstar was easy. Though Tech N9ne may not be widely known in national rap circles, back home in Kansas City, Mo., he's as big as it gets, mobbed by fans, exalted in the press and awarded every possible accolade and critical barb.
THE MAG: Reckless life
KB Posse's appetite for destruction keeps its hard-hitting music unrestrained
By Geoff Harkness It's been said that nice boys don't play rock 'n' roll. The members of KB Posse are not nice boys, which may have something to do with why they're holding court at Bada Bing, a Lawrence "gentleman's club" that's not for the faint of heart.
THE MAG: World turning
Jimmy Eat World lands a spot on the year's most coveted tour
By Jon Niccum It's easy to imagine the bizarre spectacle that must be going on backstage each night during the Weezer/Tenacious D tour. By placing Rivers Cuomo, the reclusive Harvard-educated frontman of Weezer, into a confined setting with raucous movie star Jack Black ("Shallow Hal"), who pilots the pudgy comedic pair Tenacious D, things are bound to get a tad loopy.
Wednesday, November 28
Publisher joins the competition
Publishing legend Phyllis Grann, who caused a stir in September when she announced she would leave Penguin Putnam, will join Random House in January spurring speculation that she may bring some of her best-selling authors, who include Tom Clancy, Patricia Cornwell, Clive Cussler, Amy Tan, Nora Roberts, Dick Francis and Sue Grafton.
World Series 2001 featured on DVD
The 2001 World Series turned out to be one of the most exciting in recent years. And David Check thinks this year's official World Series video will be pretty exciting, too.
Sundance competitors announced
Robert Redford's Sundance Institute announced on Monday the films that will be screened in competition categories at the 2002 Sundance Film Festival, held Jan. 10-20 in Park City, Utah.
People
Frampton comes alive for benefit Grandchild worked magic on Harris Cast shows queen the Full Monty Mousetrap still snares applause
Tuesday, November 27
Iraqis cling to tradition
Between a glorious past and a depressing present, Iraq's future blurry
It is 10 in the morning. Akil Abdel Zahra is up to his waist in the Tigris River under a fierce sun, searching for gold. For years, the 20-year-old has been scavenging the river, abandoned jewelry shops, wells and even dumps for gold, silver, bronze or copper that may have clung to the waste jewelers threw away back in Baghdad's heyday.
'Roswell' still alive, struggling on UPN
It's not often that a show celebrates its fans, but "Roswell" probably owes the fact that UPN picked it up after being canceled by The WB to pure fan loyalty and dedication to the show.
People
Completing the trilogy All dolled up Bachelor days over Reed gets POEtic
Fewer viewers wake up with 'Today'
The curtain may be coming down on a period of remarkable television dominance by NBC's "Today" show. Katie Couric and Matt Lauer's broadcast is still the clear leader in the morning, but its rivals are ascending, particularly ABC's "Good Morning America." The trend has become more pronounced since Sept. 11.
Swiss crash claims singer
Melanie Thornton, an American pop singer who made a name for herself in Germany with the duo La Bouche, was among the victims of an airliner crash in Switzerland. She was 34.
Monday, November 26
Contest seeks amateur liars
The annual World Champion Liar contest is soliciting entries from anyone who isn't a politician.
'Rainbow Children' lacks Prince's glow
He went back to using his given name in 2000 after seven years of referring to himself with an unpronounceable symbol, but the artist who has returned is not exactly the Prince of the past.
TLC looks at 'The Lying Game'
Can people tell when they are being deceived? Are some people more prone to lie than others? These provocative questions are explored on the two-part documentary "The Lying Game" (8 p.m., TLC) about the science and psychology of fibs, fabrications and lies.
People
Dangerfield recovering Harry gets his kicks Wedding bells Tejano musician dies
'Potter' works 2nd week of movie magic
But overall box revenues down from last Thanksgiving weekend
"Harry Potter" is laughing all the way to Gringotts bank, where wizards stash their loot.
Pitt takes time for making up
Actor chooses higher profile roles, clears up false reports
Hounded for years by photographers, Brad Pitt can't escape his star status.
Sunday, November 25
New book gives fresh details on Korean War atrocity
Drawing on declassified documents and other data, a new book says American commanders, to a degree previously unknown, ordered their troops to fire on civilian refugees as fighting raged up and down the Korean peninsula in 1950-51.
A lovin' 'Spoon'-ful
Spoon at the Bottleneck - Lawrence, Kansas - 11/24/2001
By Michael Newman If you told your friends you were going to the Bottleneck on Saturday night to hear Austin, Texas band Spoon play, there are three things one might surmise. First, your friends had no idea who you were talking about; second you're either a serious fan or were in the company of one; and lastly, you had a really great time.
Arts notes
Statewide arts meeting slated in Topeka Pianist to perform Gershwin works Wellsville slates Christmas events
Holiday Art Fair '01 to be held December 1st
Annual event to be at current Lawrence Arts Center location for the final year
By Michael Newman On Saturday, Dec. 1, for the fourth consecutive year, the Lawrence Arts Guild will sponsor Holiday Art Fair '01 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the Lawrence Arts Center. In 1998, the annual event was moved from the first Sunday in December to the Saturday of the annual Old Fashioned Christmas Parade.
Arts notes
Scholar to talk about Georgia O'Keeffe Award-winning poet coming to KC TPAC lists new winter-spring lineup Mulvane museum offers annual gift shop
KU Symphony Orchestra to play student compositions, Mendelssohn works
Kansas University professors and graduate students will join the KU Symphony Orchestra for a concert of largely original compositions at 2:30 p.m. Dec. 2 in the Lied Center.
Arts notes
Craft fair, parade scheduled in Burlingame Daniel Dancer to talk about photographs Brown Bear slates Acoustic Showcase
'Minimal' usage reported at new parking garage
Officials expect more users as city develops; drivers have high praise for convenience of facility
By Mindie Paget Joan Golden, senior vice president of Firstar Bank, 900 Mass., loves the new city parking garage. Since the four-level, 493-space facility opened Oct. 12 in the 900 block of New Hampshire Street, Golden has been parking there for work every morning.
Arts notes
Ottawa to show off historic homes 'Nutcracker' to be danced by Topeka ballet
KU students to perform at annual honor recital
Eleven Kansas University student performances are on the program for the Undergraduate Honor Recital at 7:30 p.m. Thursday in Swarthout Recital Hall in Murphy Hall.
'Cherry Orchard': the fruit of Chekhov's labor
By Jan Biles Kansas University theater professor John Staniunas has issued a challenge: If you think Anton Chekhov's plays are boring, slow-moving or too serious, then get in line to see University Theatre's upcoming production of the Russian playwright's "The Cherry Orchard."
People
Piano Man takes on a class act A giant of a looker Some shtick to be sexy-funny Talk about no respect; comedian uffers heart attack on birthday
Hollywood spellbound with Harry Potter
With first film in release, work now turns to future features
No sooner had Harry Potter fans caught their first screen glimpse of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry than the cameras were already rolling on the further adventures of the boy wizard and his pals.
Saturday, November 24
People
It's all in the name Big fish looking for new pond Peck puts celebrity in charity Jazz artist inspired by tragedy
Cooper hijacking case still fascinates after three decades
Famous 'folk hero' in unsolved crime has attracted many admirers as well as criminal copycats
Thirty years have passed since D.B. Cooper jumped from a hijacked jetliner with $200,000 in ransom money and disappeared into a remote forest. With the 30th anniversary of the crime today, Cooper's escapade remains unsolved.
Defender of Oscar Wilde's lover dies at 82
Sheila Colman, who worked diligently to restore the reputation of Oscar Wilde's lover, Lord Alfred Douglas, has died at age 82. Colman died Nov. 15 at her farm south of London, according to an obituary published in The Daily Telegraph. The cause was not announced.
Three suspected of cheating on 'Millionaire' show
British contestants arrested
Three people have been arrested on suspicion of cheating on the British version of the TV game show "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire." Maj. Charles Ingram and his wife, Diana, were arrested at their home west of London.
Panorama: Clinton Lake intake structure and control tower
This view of Clinton Lake and the dam was produced atop the intake structure and control tower for the spillway water outlet below the dam.
Friday, November 23
From 'Rocky' start, Philadelphia has flourished
A lot has changed in this gritty city since Rocky Balboa stormed up the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art on film, 25 years ago this week. The boxer's old Italian neighborhood in Kensington speaks mostly Spanish now. The grocers in the Italian Market are more likely to be Vietnamese or Cambodian.
Parade ushers in holiday season
Patriotic themes abound along Macy's route in New York
A giant Statue of Liberty rolled Thursday down Broadway, a focal point of a Thanksgiving Day parade awash with heroes and hero worshippers. "There's always been a lot of patriotism in this parade, but there's even more this year," said David Rivkin, 46, who has been coming to the parade every year since 1959.
People
Stone cold depressing Revealing detail Return of the Spice Girls? Spelling class
Thursday, November 22
Mobile monitor
Samsung's new flat panels can go almost anywhere
Home cinema is not just for the home anymore. Samsung's new 15-inch and 17-inch flat panel monitors can go nearly everywhere. As long as you have a power cable, you can play these monitors in a car, at a campsite or even in a motor home or on a yacht.
DeVito's high skills flourish in lowlife roles
"Heist" offers the enjoyment of David Mamet's unique personal spin on the dishonor-among-thieves genre. It features two elaborately staged robberies, but Mamet's underuse of Danny DeVito is the real criminal act.
From baseball to jazz
Book offers photographer's view of America
Summers at the lake. Smoke-filled juke joints. Sweaty young men waiting for their shot at "the big show." In "Portraits of America" (National Geographic, 256 pages, $50), a new book of photographs and essays, William Albert Allard shows us a homespun America a book "reflective of some things in this country that are pretty good," he says.
Creed draws motivation from the few rock fans who aren't supporters
The rock band Creed has about as much right as the New York Yankees to claim underdog status as a motivating force. But hey, whatever works. Creed has known only success since forming in Tallahassee, Fla., in 1995, selling more than 16 million discs.
'Sports Show' more crude than clever
If Osama bin Laden is captured, as punishment for his evil he should be forced to sit and watch "The Best Damn Sports Show Period."This is no time for mercy. Period.
'Mick,' 'Miracle' top tonight's list
Mick Jagger's homemade film "Being Mick" (9 p.m., ABC) is everything that baby-boomer bashers love to hate. It's shapeless, meandering, self-involved and self-promoting. But for those of us with a small residue of affection for the old Midnight Rambler, it's also oddly fascinating and entirely satisfying.
People
Small country, big hopes What will the trees say? Fatherhood at 70 Camilla steps up
Bush administration welcomes Hollywood role in war
Back when the mujahedeen were on our side, Americans cheered as the macho John Rambo fought his way across Afghanistan to rescue a friend. Watch out, Osama. At age 55, Sylvester Stallone is starting to sketch out a script for Rambo IV.
Indian films come of age
Film festival showcases best of American Indian media
The American Indian Film Institute held its 26th annual festival here early this month. Though only a few hundred miles north of Hollywood, it may as well have taken place on another planet.
THE MAG: Arts Notes
Violinist, pianist pair for noontime recital Argentine musicians to perform Monday KU professor's travel video to air on PBS Author to talk about intuition
THE MAG: Night Owl
Playwright Philip blue owl Hooser works the creative late shift
By Mitchell J. Near Philip blue owl Hooser is not a drag queen. Despite attention-grabbing performances in such down-and-dirty "Late Night" theater productions as the all-male parody of "The Stepford Wives," Hooser insists that his work isn't for shock value, and that underneath all the bawdy double-entendres are productions embedded with a moral message.
THE MAG: Wake Up Call - Natural law
Can the Camp Gaea opponents see the forest for the trees?
By Greg Douros Imagine hundreds of gay, pagan males flocking to Kansas once a year to celebrate their religion. The Board of Education would declare Darwin's birthday a state holiday before this scenario would occur, right? Actually, this gathering has been a reality since 1992, when the Midwest Men's Festival began meeting annually at Camp Gaea, a private park located north of Tonganoxie.
THE MAG: The art of improvisation
Lawrence artist Ken Grizzell home-schools himself in printmaking
By Mitchell J. Near Ken Grizzell started exhibiting his sculptures in 1958, after attending Fort Hays State University in Hays. And for 13 years his artwork went up on display at numerous Midwest galleries until he decided to make a change in his work based solely on the practical idea of creating art that was easier to carry around.
THE MAG: Film Review - 'Out Cold'
Snowboard comedy 'Out Cold' goes downhill fast
By Loey Lockerby "Out Cold" was probably a lot of fun to make. That's evident from the outtakes that play just before the closing credits, showing some amusing improvisation from the cast and several wild snowboarding mishaps.
THE MAG: Film Review - 'Spy Game'
Relationship between stars is held hostage in the remote thriller 'Spy Game'
By Dan Lybarger In his previous movie "Enemy of the State," director Tony Scott portrayed spies, particularly lead villain Jon Voight, as predators who use high-tech tools to trap anyone they imagine to be a threat. With "Spy Game," espionage is treated as a necessary evil. Subterfuge and betrayal may be the price of an agent's life, but the alternatives seem more abhorrent.
THE MAG: Film Review - 'Black Knight'
Martin Lawrence impersonates a medieval court jester in the rarely funny 'Black Knight'
By Loey Lockerby In "Black Knight," Martin Lawrence plays an amusement park employee who gets transported to Medieval England, where he passes himself off as a court jester (naturally). After watching Lawrence spend several minutes trying to ride an uncooperative horse, the king turns to an aide and says, "He's no longer funny, but he refuses to give up on the joke."
THE MAG: Out of Bounds - Child's play
Mag columnist gets elementary lessons in the youthful sport of Putt-Putt golf
By Seth Jones Maybe it's this weather, or maybe it's "The Facts of Life" reunion, but something's got me in a nostalgic mood. It's a feeling compounded by my recent return to the sixth grade.
THE MAG: First blood
Speed metal's Slayer reigns supreme after two decades
By Geoff Harkness You won't find a bigger Slayer fan than Henry Rollins. On-stage in Kansas City last Saturday for a stop on his most recent spoken-word tour, the former Black Flag frontman expounded at length about the benefits of having Slayer's new CD "permanently implanted" in his car stereo good for waking people up when red lights turn green, apparently.
THE MAG: SEVEN QUESTIONS with John Paul Jones
By Jon Niccum John Paul Jones is the least famous member of the world's most famous hard rock band. And while the general public may not recognize his name or face as easily as those of his iconic Led Zeppelin bandmates, most musicians fully appreciate that Jones' multiple contributions to his former group ? including all the bass, keyboards and symphonic arrangements ? are just as impressive as the act's screeching vocals and pummeling guitar riffs.
THE MAG: No-frills approach
Spoon remains true to its sound despite music-industry changes
By Michael Newman Many a great rock band has had to bounce back from sleazy record company abuses just to keep making music. But few have ever had the nerve to write and sing about it directly.
Sunset on the horizon
Pinkish-red clouds breathe life into a gray sky Wednesday on the north bank of the Kansas River. As the Winter Solstice approaches Dec. 21, the Earth draws nearer and nearer to the sun, making sunsets short, but sweet.
Wednesday, November 21
USO-style show entertains WTC 'troops'
The theater is strictly come as you are, so the audience attends in hardhats and grime-caked work boots straight from ground zero. Search and recovery workers walk six blocks from the World Trade Center rubble to a happy oasis called Tribeca Playhouse every Monday night for a free, off-Broadway show reminiscent of the 1940s entertainment put on by the USO.
Bill O'Reilly a factor in Limbaugh challenge
Even as Rush Limbaugh told his radio audience Monday that he has lost the rest of his hearing, sources confirmed Bill O'Reilly of Fox News Channel is serious about setting up a competing show.
Macy's parade duty no holiday
Bill Bracken hasn't had Thanksgiving off in years, but at least he can sleep late. He reports for work at 2 a.m. Thursday. Most of his co-workers have to be there at midnight.
People
Citizen Mandela Belaboring his point Single-minded plea Still on the job
Tuesday, November 20
Country singer climbing charts with Vietnam ballad
A quick glance down the Top 10 hits on this week's Billboard country music chart will reveal a bunch of the usual suspects singers such as Tim McGraw, Toby Keith, Travis Tritt, Reba McEntire and Alan Jackson.
Carnegie Museum displays work of famous Kansas photographer
Two burly, hairy-armed steelworkers grin at each other over a poker hand at a picnic. Well-heeled diners take their meals in the shadows at a posh eatery. A man crouches in smoke and darkness, reminiscent of some circle of hell, shielding his face as fire spits from a coke oven.
'Sound of Music' a classic treat at LCT
By Jan Biles In its 25-year history, Lawrence Community Theatre had never staged "The Sound of Music." That's understandable considering the size of the musical's cast and the limitations of the performance space.
Holiday clichés, 'Prancer' return
Most of us haven't even defrosted our Thanksgiving turkey yet. But that doesn't stop the USA Network from inflicting the first Christmas TV movie of the season. As the title implies, "Prancer Returns" (7 p.m.) is supposed to invoke the spirit of Rudolf, Santa and all that ho-ho-ho. Unfortunately, it takes a dreary, roundabout way to the Yuletide spirit.
People
Sawdust gets in my eyes Jay Kay has lucky day in court Hey, hey, hey, Fat Albert's on film Spacey takes sad song, tries to make it better at benefit
Monday, November 19
'Harry Potter' topples records with $93.5 million weekend
Wizards vanquished lizards as "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone" grossed $93.5 million in its first weekend, shattering the box-office debut record held by the dinosaur sequel "The Lost World: Jurassic Park."
Taking the 'Rocky' road
Legion of celebrities tapped to lead 'Rocky Horror' on Broadway
Theater quiz time: What do Jerry Springer, Sally Jessy Raphael, Penn & Teller, Dave Holmes, Cindy Adams, Gilbert Gottfried and Robin Leach all have in common?
People
Not crying now Steps toward peace Sold! Britney's dilemma
Sunday, November 18
Mural remembers Hughes, America
By Terry Rombeck Seven Lawrence High School art students are learning first-hand the values expressed in Langston Hughes' poem, "Let America be America Again." The poem, which stresses the need of working together to protect freedom, is the inspiration for a joint mural project between the students and Lawrence artists David Loewenstein and Lora Jost.
Student art shines at Lawrence Arts Center
Arts Center hosts final show by students before moving to new facilities
By Michael Newman It's the end of a long run. Now through the end of November, the Lawrence Arts Center is hosting the last exhibition of student or faculty artwork to be presented in the center's longtime home at Ninth and Vermont streets.
People
Hootie lends helping hand Dead Man Walking' author makes death penalty prediction Pop star puts out Marley tribute
Harvard professor contributes to hip-hop with his own CD
Cornel West isn't the typical rapper, as the audience who gathered at Harvard University to hear his hip-hop debut knows well. A prominent professor of African-American studies and philosophy at Harvard, West recently released his first album, "Sketches of My Culture," a mixture of rap and spoken word.
Artist recovers from stroke, loss of work during attacks
Among the moneyed and powerful, Raymond Whyte's paintings were a favorite for the exquisite detail that flowed from his steady hand for more than half a century. Among the fans was B. Gerald Cantor, founder of the Cantor Fitzgerald investment company, who adorned his firm's headquarters on the 101st floor of the World Trade Center with several of Whyte's paintings.
Comics rating system losing power
Marvel leads way to drop code as it 'grows up with the rest of the country'
Spider-Man and Captain America came from a world where good always triumphed over evil, where battles were fought against space aliens or mutants. They seldom went near the nasty, seamy side of life.
Potter smashes box-office record
Harry Potter and his flying broomstick are sweeping away box-office records. The first big-screen adventure of the boy wizard, "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone," grossed $31.3 million in its debut Friday, the highest single-day take ever, according to distributor Warner Bros.
Arts notes
LCT plans auditions for French farce KU jazz groups unite for concert Local artist to exhibit works in rural Kansas Market helps artisans in other countries
One-act operas highlight talent of KU program
'Period pieces' use song to explore unrealized expectations of characters
By Jan Biles The new Black Box Theatre in Murphy Hall was broken in right Friday night with two one-act operas that turn a critical eye on society while showing off the growing talent of the Kansas University opera program.
Saturday, November 17
People
Glover pleads for bin Laden's life Potter actor gets the jitters Bleeth faces cocaine charge
Minnesota governor shoots movie cameo on secret trip
The secret of Minnesota Gov. Jesse Ventura's hush-hush trip last week is out. Ventura, a celebrity governor who likes to keep his hand in the entertainment world, traveled to southern California to film a cameo appearance in a movie titled "Master of Disguise," a comedy starring Dana Carvey that is to be released next spring, according to a spokeswoman for Revolution Studios, the film's producer.
'Harry Potter' writer granted unusual power
"Harry Potter" creator J.K. Rowling has cast a spell on Hollywood that rivals any wielded by the boy wizard. Authors are notoriously rebuffed by filmmakers and studio bosses eager to reshuffle storylines or change characters to fit their own creative or marketing vision.
In the evolution of video consoles, game makers may hold survival key
Nintendo's GameCube and Microsoft's Xbox herald themselves as the latest in video game evolution. But many third-party game developers see the competition among the two new consoles and Sony's year-old PlayStation2 as the real study in Darwinism and it is the game makers who may ultimately decide which consoles survive.
Friday, November 16
'Harry' opens with midnight showings
The Senator Theater is one of many movie theaters around the country that plans a midnight screening for fans who want to be among the first to see "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone."
Dancing does justice to 'Power'
By Jan Biles The University Dance Company debuted Karole Armitage's "Power Surge" Thursday night at the Lied Center and did justice to the Lawrence-grown choreographer's inventiveness.
Locklear as Murphy Brown?
Why do some TV shows thrive when most fail? "The Pitch" (8 p.m., TV Land) explains and celebrates the difficult act of conceiving and giving birth to a new show. Writers and producers explain their side of the creative process. CBS president Les Moonves and former NBC president Warren Littlefield explain the role of the networks in the birthing process.
People
He's still got it Case closed Queen presented badge A title? No, sir
'Corrections' wins National Book Award
Despite snubbing Oprah, novelist Jonathan Franzen's work claims top fiction prize
Having the Oprah logo on his novel made Jonathan Franzen so uncomfortable it helped get him kicked off her show. Having a seal that states he won the National Book Award apparently makes him quite content.
Study finds TV pressured by sponsors, budget concerns
Local television news directors are being pressed to produce more news for less money at the same time advertisers are increasingly trying to dictate the content of their shows.
Theaters told to muzzle the muggles
A teensy word from a megamovie is causing a bit of a fuss.
Thursday, November 15
THE MAG: 'Someone' to look up to
Former KU student Louise Voss authors a realistic musical tale
By Mitchell J. Near In her first novel, "To Be Someone," London-based novelist Louise Voss has done something highly improbable: She's refashioned elements straight from any big-screen dramedy and placed them into the world of big-time music business and rock & rollers. Her book reads like a cross-mating of Larry McMurtry's "Terms of Endearment" and Jackie Collins' "Rock Star." The most amazing thing is that Voss makes it work successfully.
THE MAG: Rumor mill
Lawrence's Lonnie Fisher rebuilds as Sturgeon Mill splinters
By Geoff Harkness Reports that Sturgeon Mill was splitting had been floating around for weeks, although few were shocked by the news. Criminally underrated by local music fans, the Lawrence-based quintet had spent nearly three years trying to win over area audiences with minimal results. Though singer-guitarist Lonnie Fisher was always begrudged a degree of respect, his band was never taken seriously  erroneously lumped in with the area's musical bench players.
THE MAG: SEVEN QUESTIONS with Brian McKnight
By Geoff Harkness Brian McKnight won't be facing unemployment anytime soon. With a pop-music ré³µmé 'hat touts his abilities as a singer, songwriter, producer and wanton sex god, McKnight has proven to be one of the most-prolific (and popular) R&B artists of the past decade. Unlike the majority of his boudoir-crooning peers, however, McKnight is a genuinely gifted musician ? the soul of an artist lurking just beneath his movie-star looks.
Coffin nails
The Casket Lottery puts finishing touches on new CD
By Geoff Harkness When Nathan Ellis, singer/guitarist for The Casket Lottery, was preparing artwork for his band's third full-length effort, "Survival is for Cowards," he never thought he'd end up scratching it and starting all over. Of course that was prior to the World Trade Center attacks, which continue to alter the very face of rock music.
THE MAG: Spinning the Web - The bird is the word
A variety of cooking Web sites simplifies holiday cuisine for non-Martha Stewarts
By Michael Newman I'm still in denial about the loss of summer, and the weather hasn't been helping me shift into an autumnal state of mind. I mean really, shirtsleeves in November? The end of daylight savings is the only thing allowing me to get in touch with my seasonal affective disorder. But face it, the holidays are upon us and it's time to bootstrap myself into festivities-mode. Thanksgiving is a week away!
THE MAG: Off to see the wizard
The upcoming launch of 'Harry Potter' provokes childlike anticipation and parental concern
By Loey Lockerby Outside, it's a typical Thursday evening in Lenexa, as suburbanites dart in and out of the strip malls along 87th Street. Inside the Lackman Library, however, it's lesson time at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, where "Miss Bartholomew" is teaching a class in Muggle Studies to 20 eager pupils. As she extols the accomplishments of ingenious Muggles (those strange humans who don't use magic), the children show a keen interest, raising their hands to answer questions and volunteer for demonstrations.
THE MAG: Film Review - 'Harry Potter and the Sorceror's Stone'
Eagerly awaited film franchise gets off to a magical start with 'Sorcerer's Stone'
By Jon Niccum Thirty years ago, another wildly popular children's book was given the big-screen treatment. The result was "Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory," a musical masterpiece that remains one of the most clever, odd and downright disturbing kids flicks ever made.
THE MAG: Film Review - 'The Man Who Wasn't There'
'The Man Who Wasn't There' adds one more twisted piece to Coen brothers' film noir puzzles
By Dan Lybarger There are two types of quiet people: The first are silent because little goes on inside their heads. The second type say little because words don't quite portray their complex inner discourses. They fear that no matter how diligently they try to explain their thoughts, others might not grasp them.
THE MAG: Film Review - 'Novocaine'
'Novocaine' offers Steve Martin another fine opportunity to play between drama and comedy
By Dan Lybarger Good oral hygiene can be important to the body as a whole. The mouth can contain all kinds of cancers, and there are links between gum disease and heart problems. Still, despite the importance of their work, there's something about dentists that makes it hard for people to take them seriously.
THE MAG: Back to nature
Lindholm uses art to spread conservation message
By Mitchell J. Near Bob Lindholm uses his camera for more than artwork. Each time he points and shoots he's also working for a cause, that of reminding busy people about the need to conserve the nature surrounding them.
THE MAG: State of mind
Weaver runs gamut of roles without going nuts
By Mitchell J. Near No offense to actors or schizophrenics, but sometimes the difference between the stage and the mental ward is closer than most people might think. Cheryl Weaver is arguably the most successful of Northeast Kansas actresses, moving easily from film roles to voiceover work to theater productions. She's performed at every Kansas City theater, and usually goes right from one role to the next. Lately, though, the parts have literally come one on top of another.
THE MAG: Out of Bounds - Austin's power
A 12-year-old driver takes on the racing world
By Seth Jones Pull up at Chase Austin's house in Eudora, and you'll have to park in the driveway. No room in the garage for cars; it's already full of racing trophies. Seeing people that can't park their cars in their garage because they have too much junk is typical. But to have this much hardware in a space designed for two vehicles now that's unusual.
THE MAG: Arts Notes
Benefit to raise money to help girls Saturday event offers crafts in country setting KU oboe professor to give recital KU professor to sing solo in 'Messiah'
Victoria's Secret goes prime time
ABC embraces lingerie company's fashion show for television viewers
As Victoria's Secret marketing director, Ed Razek is responsible for the sexy commercials that have appeared on television for years and the fashion show that crashed a Web site. Yes, Razek said, he knows them all by name. Yes, they're his friends. And yes, he gets to be with them at glamorous locations worldwide.
CNBC plots replacement after Rivera leaves
Scrambling to fill a crucial prime-time hour that will shortly be vacated by Geraldo Rivera, CNBC is expected to launch a new show on Monday, "CNBC's America Now," which will use different anchors from both NBC News and CNBC week to week.
Comedian Paula Poundstone jailed for probation violation
Paula Poundstone was briefly jailed Tuesday by a judge because of a relapse during her treatment at a drug and alcohol rehabilitation center where she was sent after pleading no-contest to child endangerment.
People
Like a horse and carriage A family film Ventura plans trip Gwyneth on inner beauty
The Casket Lottery puts finishing touches on new CD
By Geoff Harkness When Nathan Ellis, singer/guitarist for The Casket Lottery, was preparing artwork for his band's third full-length effort, "Survival is for Cowards," he never thought he'd end up scratching it and starting all over. Of course that was prior to the World Trade Center attacks, which continue to alter the very face of rock music.
Wednesday, November 14
Fashionista Carrie Donovan dies at age 73
Carrie Donovan, the flamboyant fashion editor who embarked on a second career as a high-profile spokeswoman for Old Navy late in life, died Monday. She was 73. Donovan died at New York Weill Cornell Medical Center. She had been ailing for several months, friend George O'Brien said.
6News video report: Local students thinking more about air travel safety
Kim Hall reports on the reluctance of local college students to fly after the events of Sept. 11 and the plane crash in New York earlier this week.
American Music Awards nominees announced
Rhythm & blues newcomer Alicia Keys, who won commercial and critical acclaim with the album "Songs in A Minor," received a leading five American Music Awards nominations Tuesday.
People
Witness to disaster R.E.M. trial postponed Bridging a gap Another wedding for MacDowell
USO changing its tactics
United Service Organizations finding new ways to entertain troops
On the eve of America's entry into World War II, the United Service Organizations was formed to bring comfort to troops overseas. Sixty years later, the goal hasn't changed but the means have.
Turn a blind eye to Miller's 'Focus'
"Focus," a ham-fisted adaptation of Arthur Miller's dusty 1945 novel about anti-Semitism, earnestly chronicles the moral awakening of a middle-aged milquetoast who can't see past his nose. He's myopic, yes, but he is also ethically shortsighted.
Mac isn't 'Father Knows Best'
Comedian Bernie Mac takes a savagely funny look at family life on "The Bernie Mac Show" (7:30 p.m. and 8 p.m., Fox).
Collection of 'fifth Beatle' Stu Sutcliffe to be auctioned
A retrospective devoted to Stuart Sutcliffe a founding member of the Beatles who helped shape the look of the band, forged a promising career as an artist and died at 21 went on display Tuesday at a London art gallery.
Tuesday, November 13
6News Video: Reporter's pilgrimage to New York concludes
Joel Mathis shows the changed New York City.
6News Video: KU Forum calms anthrax fears
Officials at KU hold a forum to help put the anthrax scare into perspective.
Shatner captains contest that pits challenger, chef
To his legions of fans, William Shatner will always be a captain. But with his latest venture, he adds the rank of "chairman" to his TV titles. Shatner plays the role of "the Chairman" in UPN's Americanized version of the Japanese smash hit, "Iron Chef."
Jacksons: Can't beat it
Michael Jackson reunites with his brothers Jackie, Tito, Marlon, Jermaine and Randy on "Michael Jackson: 30th Anniversary Special" (8 p.m., CBS). OK, the King of Pop looks like he's spent the last 30 years in a Clorox vat, and let's not even start talking about what he's had done to his nose.
People
Protester released from custody Love Ride raises donations Barry vs. Dakota Dr. Jekyll, Mr. Hyde
'NSync concert raises funds for terrorism victims
Some 150,000 'NSync fans shrieked and cheered Sunday night as the popular boy band performed such hits as "Pop," "Bye Bye Bye," and "Tearin' Up My Heart" at a free Veterans Day concert on South Beach.
TV networks going pop
Concert offerings are on the rise
Television sets are beginning to rival local civic centers as concert venues. CBS is airing a two-hour Michael Jackson concert special tonight and begins a run of three weekly Garth Brooks shows on Wednesday.
Veterans history project seeks stories
James Graham remembers his U.S. Navy service not as a fight against the Japanese or Germans, but as a fight for black sailors trying to make it in a white Navy. Ethel Mary McGinn recalls that her service in the WAVES taught her compassion for others that would remain with her throughout her life.
Monday, November 12
People
A piece of history Crunching numbers Say hey Yankee defector
'Monsters' fends off attacks
"Monsters, Inc." crushed the competition for a second straight week and set an animated film record for breaking $100 million in ticket sales.
Hollywood executives join America's war on terrorism
Top Hollywood executives met with a senior White House official Sunday to discuss how the entertainment industry could help the war on terrorism.
Soap actor finds his voice
'Days of Our Lives'' Steve Blackwood sings a jazzy tune
There's a tickle of delight when actors surprise us with other talents.
Sunday, November 11
'Color-full' books teach children a lesson in tolerance
Flip through several children's books and you'll find pages full of color and not just the magic-marker type. More and more children's books appear to be incorporating different ethnic races into their stories.
Theater stages 'Sound of Music'
Longtime favorite musical challenges young cast
By Jan Biles Lawrence Community Theatre, in its 25-year history, has never staged "The Sound of Music." But come Thursday night, the theater will no longer be able to lay stake to that claim.
Young and old meet in jazz show for the ages
By Jan Biles A legendary jazz pianist and a young jazz singer whose potential for greatness is beginning to be recognized put on a whale of a swinging show Friday night at a crowded Lied Center.
KU dancers to introduce new work by 'punk ballerina'
"Power Surge," a romantic and lyrical dance created by "punk ballerina" Karole Armitage provides a compelling finale for the University Dance Company fall concert at 7:30 p.m. Thursday and Friday at the Lied Center.
'Messiah' makes its return
Lawrence orchestra, choirs warming up for concert
By Jan Biles When the winter holiday season rolls around, a massive oratorio written by George Frideric Handel in August 1741 always marches its way into the spotlight. "Messiah," featuring solo voices, an orchestra and a chorus, traces the story of Jesus from the Old Testament prophecies through the Resurrection.
Former Lawrence resident's quirky vessels take a new turn
By Jan Biles Former Lawrence resident Marko Fields has seen a change in his handbuilt vessels over the past few years. The surfaces of some of his quirky teapots and basket-looking sculptures seem drier perhaps reflecting the landscape around Liberal, where he now teaches art classes at Seward County Community College.
People
For Taylor, attacks a reminder of lifestyle worth defending Giving his regards to Broadway On radio microphone, Donaldson is mayor of town hall meeting Folk singer wants president to cease his fearless roar
German musical pays tribute to Princess Diana
A new musical that honors Princess Diana as a heroine on the scale of "Evita" or "Aida" opened this weekend in southern Germany.
Pilgrim's Progression 2001
7th annual dance weekend to be hosted by Lawrence Barn Dance Assn.
By Michael Newman The Lawrence Barn Dance Assn. will host Pilgrim's Progression 2001 the weekend of Nov. 16-18. The seventh annual dance weekend will be held this year at Woodlawn School at 508 Elm St., just north of the river in Lawrence.
'Prankster,' novelist dies at 66
Ken Kesey wrote 'Cuckoo's Nest,' lived Wolfe character
Ken Kesey, the celebrated novelist and leader of the "Merry Pranksters" whose acid-laced adventures and epic bus trips helped inspire a generation of free spirits in the 1960s, died early Saturday in Eugene, Ore., after surgery for liver cancer.
Saturday, November 10
Students sing weird, wild '70s music
Teacher recorded grade-schoolers performing Bowie, Beatles and Beach Boys
When self-professed guitar-strumming hippie Hans Fenger became a grade-school music teacher in rural Canada in the mid-'70s, he wanted to try something different.
People
Kline faces a 'House' death Queen Mother opens memorial Monsters' voice scorns whiners
Ex-Beatle George Harrison seeks cancer treatment
Ex-Beatle George Harrison reportedly has received experimental cancer treatment at Staten Island University Hospital. The 58-year-old Harrison was treated by Dr. Gil Lederman, the hospital's director of radiation oncology, according to published reports.
Networks get back to streetside morning show fans
Nearly two months after the World Trade Center attacks, the network breakfast shows are starting to interact again with the fans who gather outside their window-fronted studios. Following the terrorist attacks on Sept. 11, the morning shows cut back on exterior shots of fans as producers turned to hard-news stories.
Friday, November 9
Lawrence teacher gets bit role on 'Friends'
By Jan Biles Lawrence resident Janeal Krehbiel will be making her television acting debut Thursday, and it's on one of the nation's most-watched shows. Krehbiel, vocal instructor at Southwest Junior High School, will appear in two restaurant scenes along with Rachel (Jennifer Aniston) and Phoebe (Lisa Kudrow) on an episode of NBC's hit series "Friends."
People
Teen gives Charles princely slap Judge deals Brown legal setback Hurley expecting first child
Jackson's 'Invincible' tops charts for now
Defying lukewarm reviews and family controversies, Michael Jackson returns to the top of the album charts this week with "Invincible."
First lady looks at U.S. life, her role after attacks
First lady Laura Bush reflected Thursday on the events of Sept. 11, calling it a day "when strangers became heroes" and the nation came together in caring and compassion.
Ex-Beatle believes in yesterday
The song most clearly about Paul McCartney's late wife Linda on his new album is not about the day he lost her, but the day he met her.
KU theater production of Chekov play spurs related activities
Two special events are being planned in conjunction with University Theatre's upcoming production of "The Cherry Orchard" by Anton Chekhov.
Thursday, November 8
People
Crazy talk Really crazy talk Concert mini-tour Risk pays off
NBC News offering a 'Harry Potter' preview Sunday night
NBC News will try to capture some ratings magic from the upcoming film "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone." In an unusual move, NBC News will devote an hour of "Dateline" to covering the making of the Warner Bros. movie and related topics, at 6 p.m. CST Sunday.
Country shows its colors
Stars shine on red, white and blue night of awards
Tim McGraw was named best entertainer at the Country Music Assn. awards Wednesday night during a ceremony that pushed patriotism front-and-center. McGraw added an addendum to his acceptance speech thanking record company executives and his wife, singer Faith Hill. He shouted out his gratitude to U.S. soldiers fighting in the war on terrorism.
THE MAG: Art Notes
'Dragon Tales' basis for touring musical Ottawa native slated for violin concert Lawrence actress plays Ma in 'Little House' Organists to perform concert about peace
THE MAG: Onion blossoms
Satirical weekly newspaper the Onion views everything as a comedy target
By Mitchell J. Near In a world turned upside down in the aftermath of terrorist attacks and anthrax scares, one newspaper refuses to succumb to the sort of political correctness currently embraced by most major news media. It's not The New York Times or The Washington Post, that's for sure.
THE MAG: An act of war
Sam Shepard's 'States of Shock' takes on the aftermath of violence
By Mitchell J. Near It's one of those "fortuitous" events that the staff of Gorilla Theatre wishes had never happened. The group has a new play up and running Sam Shepard's "States of Shock" that is trendy, edgy and evocative as it digs deep into the human psyche, and how it's ravaged by acts of warfare. The play has received strong audience support, and its message has never been more timely, but artistic director David Luby swears it wasn't organized in light of the Sept. 11 terrorist actions.
THE MAG: Wake Up Call - Living here in Allen town
Mag columnist attempts to go trick-or-treating at Allen Press
By Greg Douros Upside-down crosses, anarchy symbols, TV shows like "South Park" these are things that make the authorities shiver in their boots. Snoopy and Woodstock, however, are not your average icons of insubordination. That is unless you work for Allen Press, the Lawrence-based printer of academic journals.
THE MAG: Film Review - 'Heist'
By Dan Lybarger Playwright and filmmaker David Mamet has a soft spot for crooks. From "Glengarry Glen Ross" (about ethically bankrupt real estate salesmen) to "The Spanish Prisoner" (about corporate scam artists), the writer has explored confidence games with voyeuristic glee that often rubs off on a viewer. His eighth film "Heist" in some ways explains and demonstrates this fascination, because Mamet hoodwinks an audience the way his characters rob their victims. This time around, the director is reminiscent of an acquaintance who charms his host to no end while pilfering him. Mamet retreads much of his earlier work, but at least it's still entertaining.
THE MAG: Film Review - 'Shallow Hal'
By Loey Lockerby Could it be that the Farrelly brothers have mellowed? The guys who created "Dumb & Dumber" and "There's Something About Mary" have always given their films a touch of sweetness, but they were mostly about seeing how many ways people could be grossed out. Although "Shallow Hal" still has moments that will make viewers laugh and cover their eyes at the same time, it's a surprisingly gentle, even romantic story about the value of real beauty.
THE MAG: Out of Bounds - For fun and prophet
Miss Cleo's psychics predict success of Jayhawks' basketball, football coaching
By Seth Jones I could have sat here and started writing about how good I think the Kansas University men's basketball team will do this year. But that's been done a million times by a million sports columnists. I required something different, something readers would take more seriously. For a true prediction, I needed to consult a psychic.
THE MAG: Bigger than hip-hop
The Coup's outspoken frontman reflects upon current affairs
By Geoff Harkness Boots Riley is one of the most respected MCs in hip-hop, but today he'd rather talk politics. This comes as little surprise, given that he's spent the better part of the decade fronting music's most politically informed band, The Coup.
THE MAG: O sister, where art thou?
The Be Good Tanyas stumble upon success after a series of bizarre breaks
By Geoff Harkness The Be Good Tanyas are not the kind of band that makes you think of Brooklyn. With sweet, clear harmonies and down-home songs built on a foundation of acoustic guitar, banjo and mandolin, the outfit's Appalachian folk seems ready-made for back-porch listening rather than the Big Apple's concrete streets.
THE MAG: 'Back to the front
Nickelback rockets to the top with 'How You Remind Me'
By Geoff Harkness It was a few weeks ago, standing onstage in New Orleans, that Ryan Peake noticed the difference.
Wednesday, November 7
Theater part of movie history
Library of Congress' classic films tour makes stop in Pennsylvania
Eric Faden's obsession started last year when he moved to Lewisburg to become an assistant professor of film studies at Bucknell University.
People
No odyssey for Clarke Arts club mascot dies Here's to you, Mrs. Robinson Cruise-Cruz wedding denied
Country Music Assn. honors its best tonight
One afternoon in 1957, Don Gibson crafted two country music classics "I Can't Stop Loving You" and "Oh, Lonesome Me." Gibson's hits kept coming for years, including the haunting "Sweet Dreams," a best-seller for his close friend Patsy Cline.
Tuesday, November 6
'24' adds to Tuesday's quality
Here's the good news. The new drama "24" (8 p.m., Fox) lives up to the hype. It's smart, hip, stylish and deserves all of the glib hyperbole that television scribes have heaped on it since the biannual critics conclave in July.
People
Deep thoughts The long and short of it Tempted by medicine English project
'Star Wars' trailer playing in theaters
Star Wars creator George Lucas opened the door for derision when he titled the next movie in his "Star Wars" space opera "Episode 2: Attack of the Clones." After all, if it fails, his fan base could rename it "Episode 2: Attack of the Killer Clones" or "Episode 2: Send in the Clones."
Right off the bat, Emmy audience shrinks
World Series seventh game easily eclipses Emmy Awards on big TV night
The Arizona Diamondbacks, "The West Wing" and television itself were big winners Sunday night. Faced with a rich night of choices on TV, Americans grabbed their remote controls and headed to the couch.
Diary of a friendship
Childhood friend of Anne Frank displays artifacts at Houston museum
A tattered, 1938 first edition of the Dutch version of the board game "Monopoly" takes Jacqueline Sanders-van Maarsen back to a time before her best childhood friend, Anne Frank, became an icon of Holocaust history.
Award winners
Winners announced at Sunday night's 53nd annual Primetime Emmy Awards:
6News Video: Auction raises money for Red Cross
The benefit auction raised nearly 5,000 dollars for victims of the Sept. 11 attacks.
Monday, November 5
'Monsters Inc.' mashes competition with record opening
"Monsters Inc." scared away the weekend competition.
People
Britain's richest women Nelson stages a benefit Singing a conference's praises Haggard on the mend
Third time's a charm for Emmys
'West Wing' wins best drama at twice-delayed awards; 'Sex and the City' best comedy
"The West Wing," which celebrates the inner workings of a fictional White House, dominated Sunday in an Emmy Awards ceremony twice postponed by the real-world terrorism drama. The NBC series captured best drama series and seven other awards.
Gallery owner organizes fund-raiser to foster financial, moral support for aspiring artists
By Jan Biles Mehrzad Alison sees art in everything that surrounds him. Clothing, landscapes, cars for him, the world is about design, colors, artistic expression. He feels so strongly about the influence of art on the world and its peoples that Alison is organizing an event to celebrate the arts and artists in the Lawrence community. At the same time, the event will raise money for scholarships to help high school graduates who want to become artists.
Sunday, November 4
People
Hotel-casino's financial troubles may pull plug on Electra show Cash released from hospital '70s songs inspire musical Power of positive thinking
Actor's union turns to Gilbert
"Little House on the Prairie" star Melissa Gilbert was elected president of the Screen Actors Guild in a hotly contested race, but the results could be challenged because of a flaw on thousands of ballots.
Emmy's face competition for TV viewers tonight
The competition at the Emmy Awards will be fierce especially when it comes to snaring viewers tonight. The twice-delayed ceremony, airing on the first weekend of the November "sweeps" period, will face a heavily promoted miniseries and the blockbuster movie "Toy Story 2" in the fight for ratings.
Oscar's new home to open
Kodak Theatre part of multimillion-dollar Hollywood redevelopment
Right now, the appropriate attire is hard hat, work shirt, jeans and heavy boots. Come Friday, Hollywood's glitterati will appear in tuxes and gowns for the grand opening of the new home of the Academy Awards, the Kodak Theatre.
Online Exclusive: Retired Baldwin City couple to show collected prints at Baker University
Retired History Professor John English and wife Evonne have been collecting prints for 35 years
By Michael Newman When they met at Stephen F. Austin University in Nacogdoches Texas in the mid-60s, John English's only interest in collecting art was limited to covering some drab walls in his office at the university where he taught European history. It was his future bride Evonne, the artist and teacher, who fueled their mutual desire to collect art.
Musical-comedy tells Fanny Brice's story
"Funny Girl," one of the stage and movie musicals that made Barbra Streisand famous, is coming to the Lied Center. The show will be performed at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday. The musical is about Fanny Brice, a gawky girl whose love for the stage drives her on until she becomes Ziegfeld's brightest star.
North Mississippi Allstars rock the blues.
North Mississippi Allstars, the Bottleneck, Lawrence Kansas, 11/03/2001
Bye Michael Newman The North Mississippi Allstars are a rock and roll band. That they exclusively play the blues is secondary. That extraordinarily talented drummer Cody Dickinson swings doesn't change the simple fact that as front man and lead guitar player Luther Dickinson put it, "When young white kids play black music, whether it's Elvis Presley, the Rolling Stones or the Beastie Boys, it turns into rock 'n' roll." Saturday night the Allstars rocked the Bottleneck.
Arts notes
Magazine offers tips to find your dressy look The shoe must go on
Exhibit unites artistic images
By Jan Biles Photographers Frances Benjamin Johnston and Carrie Mae Weems may have lived 100 years apart and looked at the world quite differently, but they shared the same artistic goals.
Arts notes
Festival to benefit Community Nursery Brass ensemble slated at JCCC
Opera by local playwright to open at Kennedy Center
By Jan Biles Mr. Averill is going to Washington. A musical adaptation of "The Emperor's New Clothes" by Lawrence playwright-composer Ric Averill will open Nov. 23 at the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
The violence of apartheid
Play's characters survive nation's discrimination
By Jan Biles A play opening this week at Kansas University takes a look at the injustices and aftermath of apartheid in South Africa. Yet, the drama is not overly political and centers on four women who are obsessed with the soap opera "The Bold and the Beautiful."
Louise Taylor headlines West Side Folk concert
Singer-songwriter Louise Taylor will perform at 7:30 p.m. Friday at the Ecumenical Christian Ministries, 1204 Oread Ave. The concert is part of the West Side Folk Series.
Topekan accompanies works to France
By Jan Biles When a Topeka resident agreed to represent the late Elizabeth "Grandma" Layton at an art exhibition in Paris, he never dreamed he would receive a call from his sister back in the States telling him that America was being attacked.
Arts notes
Shrine circus erects big top on Thursday Iowa city seeks outdoor sculptures Poster contest offers large cash prizes Quilt exhibits reflect different themes
Arts notes
Baldwin couple show prints from personal collection Celebrity photographers give works to auction Love Pavarotti? Then shell out the cash
Saturday, November 3
People
Hendrix home may win reprieve Jackson puts best foot back Thornton displays quiet side Illness keeps Lane from producing
It's age before beauty, Linda learns in TV exit
Every alliance to be 'shattered' next episode
Spencer for fire. Harvard University career adviser Linda Spencer is academic to CBS after her eviction in Episode 4 of Survivor: Africa. The lively 44-year-old cancer survivor fell victim to her Samburu tribe's gaping generational divide.
Rivera departing talk show for war
Geraldo Rivera is walking away from his CNBC talk show to get his hands dirty, becoming a war correspondent for Fox News Channel.
Disney actors blue about pink slips
If you've been to Walt Disney World in the past decade, you may have caught Mark Lainer playing a character in the Indiana Jones show. Or he may have made you laugh in one of the improvisational sketches at Pleasure Island.
Friday, November 2
Ain't no party like a P-Funk party
George Clinton and the P-Funk All-Stars, Liberty Hall, Lawrence Kansas - 10/31/2001
By Michael Newman "There ain't no party like a P-Funk party, 'cause a P-Funk party don't stop." Well, that's the chant all right, but it can either be the strength or the weakness of a live performance by George Clinton and the P-Funk All-Stars. On a Halloween Wednesday night at Lawrence's Liberty Hall it was both. For nearly four hours, Clinton's posse, number as many as 22 musicians and singers at times, threw down the old-school funk.
6News video report: Mail from infected facility sent to Haskell
Marta Costello reports on mail to Haskell University that was processed at the Brentwood mail facility.
6News video report: Lawrence postal workers to receive gloves and masks
Josh Garber reports on the Lawrence postmaster's order of gloves and masks for Lawrence postal workers.
6News video report: Some local stamp collectors not worried
Kim Hall reports on a local stamp collecter who received a shipment from the stamp fulfillment center in Kansas Center where traces of anthrax were found.
People
Contest winners get work on horror king's Web site Voice change calls for double Cash still battling bronchitis
Pioneering deal allows ABC drama to go straight to cable
In a deal likely to be copied in the television industry, ABC Entertainment will be allowed to immediately rebroadcast the new Sally Field drama, "The Court," on one of its cable networks.
Animated feature releases to duke it out today
The battle for animation supremacy between Disney and DreamWorks hits a fever pitch this weekend. Today, Disney launches the latest computer-animated feature from Pixar, "Monsters, Inc." at more than 3,000 theaters, certain to come out on top at the weekend box office. On the same day, DreamWorks releases the top-grossing picture of the year, "Shrek," on DVD, backing it with an aggressive ad campaign including a Burger King tie-in.
Crystal's comic relief 'monstrous'
On this particular day, Billy Crystal is distracted.
Thursday, November 1
6News video report: Anthrax hits close to home
Josh Garber reports on the confirmed report of anthrax in a stamp fulfillment building in Kansas City.
Penn appears on 'Friends'
November sweeps begin with heated competition between the networks. So far, "Friends" has dominated "Survivor" in the ratings. The African competition has gained viewers at 7:30 p.m., when NBC aired the atrocious "Inside Schwartz."
People
Bull's-eye unwanted by Snoop Hanson sues MP3.com Not all sugar and spice
Viewers returning to regular television-watching habits
Viewer interest in wall-to-wall coverage of the war against terrorism appears to be fading. Since the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks on New York and Washington, viewership for the three major all-news channels CNN, the Fox News Channel and MSNBC has fallen steadily, according to Nielsen Media Research.
Rescheduled Emmys hope third time is charm
The third time will be the charm for this year's Emmy Awards ceremony, or the twice rescheduled show won't happen at all, producers said this week. The ceremony honoring television accomplishments was postponed from its Sept. 16 date because of last month's terrorist attacks.
Guests staying away from talk shows
Many celebrities reluctant to travel to New York after terrorist attacks
Since Sept. 11, television talk shows based in New York are having a tough time filling their couches. The starmaking machinery has been slowed by many celebrities' reluctance to travel, forcing many talk shows to cope with last-minute cancellations and invite guests who normally wouldn't get a second look.
THE MAG: Arts Notes
Baldwin singers present Broadway revue KU flute student to present recital Bad space movies slated at KC library Billy Ebeling gets 'Big As Dallas' on CD
THE MAG: Out of Bounds - (Your company name here)
Corporate sponsorship means that sports venues are starting to get a bad name
By Seth Jones Great news. This column, formerly known as "Out of Bounds," has undergone a significant name change. We ask that you now refer to it only as "Amy's Golden Tan Shop's Out of Bounds."
THE MAG: Ready to 'Ride'
One-man show brings African-American Old West experience to theater stage
By Mitchell J. Near Will Smith, the popular star of such flicks as "Independence Day" and "Men in Black," once approached Harrisonville, Mo., actor Wil Robinson and offered him an apology. It turns out that Smith had seen Robinson's Web site, and knew of his reputation as an actor devoted to real-life experiences of African-Americans in the Old West, and Smith felt a bit sheepish over his latest effort, "Wild Wild West," a movie featuring Smith as a secret agent cowboy. His character's believability was so negligible that he might as well have been from the moon.
THE MAG: Quest for the West
A KU professor examines Western history
By Mitchell J. Near The Old West, as portrayed in film and TV, is so broad and spacious a place that it's easy to get lost in, whether traveling through it or trying to write about it. Because of that fact, most writers focus on a particular niche the black experience, the treatment of Indian tribes, the exploration by Spanish conquistadors because they know that trying to cover it all is like consigning yourself to an everlasting research assignment that ends up boring everyone who attempts to read it.
THE MAG: Spinning the Web - The only thing missing is a food court
Online shopping has reinvented but not replaced conventional retailers
By Michael Newman Using a computer is easy. I focus my eyes on the screen, I manipulate the keyboard and mouse and once in awhile I even engage my brain. There's not much to it. Maybe it's too easy. Some sneaky people have figured out that if they show me pictures of nice things I will type my Visa number, tell them my expiration date and click on the "confirm order" button.
THE MAG: Film Review - 'Domestic Disturbance'
By Loey Lockerby What happened to John Travolta?
THE MAG: Midwestern canvas
Joshua Rose returns to his hometown to film the Vietnam feature 'The Painting'
By Dan Lybarger As a digital effects supervisor and producer, Joshua Rose has helped make animals talk to Eddie Murphy in "Dr. Doolittle" and space aliens and their vessels seem real in movies like "Men in Black" and "Star Trek: First Contact." With his first feature film as a director, "The Painting," Rose turns contemporary Kansas City into the 1960s version of itself.
THE MAG: May the farce be with you
Kansas City's annual Bad Film Festival tries to conquer space
By Dan Lybarger The "Star Wars" series and "2001: A Space Odyssey" take viewers to fantastic new worlds and make the realm of imagination seem tangible. Visitors to the Kansas City, Kan., Public Library at 625 Minn., however, will be transported to planets where spaceships shaped like hubcaps hung from strings, where landscapes look like finger paintings and where inept actors strut around in hideously garish spandex outfits.
THE MAG: Film Review - 'The One'
Action star Jet Li gets overwhelmed by digital effects in routine 'The One'
By Dan Lybarger Unlike some of his peers from Hong Kong, action hero Jet Li ("Kiss of the Dragon") is unique because he's willing to play a bad guy. Not only is he eager, but he's also remarkably adept. Despite his 5'6" frame, Li projects an unwavering confidence that makes him thoroughly intimidating. His intense eyes and calm expression helped him steal "Lethal Weapon 4" from the film's stars without opening his mouth.
THE MAG: Film Review - 'Monsters, Inc.'
By Loey Lockerby When "Toy Story" came out in 1995, it was a truly breathtaking achievement, a film that combined state-of-the-art animation with great writing, and appealed to kids and adults in equal measure. Many wondered if its creator, Pixar Animation Studios (working under the Disney aegis), had enough creativity to live up to its initial promise. The success of "A Bug's Life" and "Toy Story 2" put those fears to rest in a hurry.
THE MAG: Cover Story - Droll parts
By Geoff Harkness If there's one word Cake frontman John McCrea never wants to hear again, it's "quirky." "That's a lazy adjective," he says wearily, phoning from a San Francisco soundcheck. "Those words don't really describe anything. All those words say is that it's NOT something. I think that's lazy journalism. Quirky? What does that really say? That it's not extreme modern rock? It also reminds me of someone trying to describe They Might Be Giants or something. Quirky seems like a really '80s word."
THE MAG: SEVEN QUESTIONS with Travis Meeks from Days of the New
By Geoff Harkness The first chapter in the Days of the New story should be titled "Too Much Too Soon." Formed in the mid-'90s by school chums Travis Meeks (vocals/guitar), Jesse Vest (bass), Matt Taul (drums) and later Todd Whitener (guitar), the Louisville, Ky.-based band was signed to a major label before all the members had their first driver's licenses.
THE MAG: Chopper command
Helicopter Helicopter finds ways to stand out from indie crowd
By Jon Niccum Boston's Helicopter Helicopter finds itself in the same situation as many other indie bands, being able to pack local clubs on a regional basis but utterly anonymous when removed from its home base. There's really only one cure for that condition, and it usually involves multiple trips in a weathered Winnebago or a trusty Econoline Van.
