Wednesday, July 31
People
Dollars and scents Manilow a hot ticket From doctor to lawyer The universe is his
New ads promote volunteerism
President Bush introduced a quirky new ad campaign Tuesday in which he stars alongside television, sports and political personalities in commercials designed to extend a post-Sept. 11 "culture of service" by inspiring more Americans to volunteer.
Lawrence to honor history
Here is a run-down of the Civil War on the Western Frontier activities, with presenters' names and contact numbers:
Biography of Mexican artist to open Venice Film Festival
"Frida," the long-awaited biography of Mexican artist Frida Kahlo starring Salma Hayek and Antonio Banderas, will open the 59th Venice Film Festival, organizers announced Tuesday. Another attention-grabbing entrant at the Aug. 29-Sept. 8 festival will be Steven Soderbergh's "Full Frontal," with an ensemble cast including Julia Roberts and David Duchovny.
Kennedy Center nominees announced
Actors Elizabeth Taylor, James Earl Jones and Chita Rivera will share with musicians Paul McCartney and James Levine the 25th annual honors of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
Concert takes Springsteen back to his beginnings
Bruce Springsteen kicked off a promotional blitz for his new record with an appearance on NBC's "Today" show Tuesday, welcoming co-hosts Katie Couric and Matt Lauer to the hard-luck Jersey shore city where he got his start.
Tuesday, July 30
Unable to hire security, Israeli orchestra cancels U.S. tour
The Israel Philharmonic Orchestra won't be going on a U.S. concert tour because it has been unable to find an American security firm to guard its 100 musicians, an orchestra official said Monday.
Roaring Tigers tamed a burning city
The roaring Tigers tamed a burning city If you really want to learn history, glance back at the sports pages.
People
Hitting the books Backstreet Boy wants to rock 9-11 hits home for The Boss Showing signs of emotion
Wall Street show's move irks PBS
Rukeyser program picked up at CNBC, distributed to network's affiliates
The aftermath of last spring's feud between Louis Rukeyser and Maryland Public Television recalls the famous Cold War acronym MAD mutually assured destruction. It couldn't have happened anywhere but the Public Broadcasting Service, stung in this case by its unique decentralized structure.
Monday, July 29
Rain doesn't dampen Mellencamp fans' spirits
John Mellencamp - Verizon Wireless Amphitheater, Bonner Springs, Kan. - 07/28/2002
By Michael Newman Bonner Springs An act of nature took John Mellencamp's Sunday night performance at Verizon Wireless Amphitheater in Bonner Springs from good to special.
World Online Exclusive: Spinning the Web - How long is forever?
By Michael Newman Is the web permanent? Ones and zeros are a great way to archive massive amounts of data, but what's being saved and what's being left on the curb? And how long is permanent in an environment where one after another, advancing technologies replace obsolete ones?
Celebrities turn out for N.Y. premiere of 'Goldmember'
Katie Couric, who cameos as a prison guard in the new Austin Powers flick, says it's OK for journalists to take roles in movies as long as they're not playing reporters on screen. "A lot of newspeople play anchors or reporters or themselves on TV, and I think that can possibly blur the lines," Couric said at the Manhattan premiere of "Austin Powers in Goldmember."
VH1 celebrates one-hit wonders
Is fleeting fame a blessing or a curse? The new series "One Hit Wonders" (9 p.m., VH1) recalls those chart-topping pop musicians who never returned to the top-10 list, and some who never approached the top 100. All of their songs have novelty quality and a gimmicky sound that make them difficult to forget.
People
Public school defender Shockingly bad taste A super comeback Getting medieval on rock
'Austin Powers' strikes gold with latest installment
The new Austin Powers epic had a smashing debut, baby, raking in $71.5 million to set an opening record for a comedy. "Austin Powers in Goldmember" kicked the Tom Hanks hit-man drama "Road to Perdition" into second place at the box office, according to industry estimates Sunday. "Austin Powers," the third tale of the bell-bottomed superspy, had the fifth-best opening ever for any movie. "Spider-Man" still tops the list with its $114.8 million May opening.
'Hairspray' creating Broadway buzz
Adaptation of John Waters movie garners rave reviews, even before critics see it
Mel Brooks, Anne Bancroft and Nathan Lane have already seen it. So has Bette Midler, but then she's an investor. Danny DeVito and Yoko Ono are on tap for next Thursday, and we haven't even gotten to the musical-theater groupies who have bombarded Internet chat rooms with their opinions, most of which range from rave to rave to rave.
Sunday, July 28
Networks set guests for Sunday news shows
Guest lineup for the Sunday TV news shows:
Living jazz legend finds success on comeback trail
Kansas City singer Myra Taylor enjoying renewed popularity
Life keeps getting sweeter for Kansas City comeback queen Myra Taylor. At 85, the jazz and blues vocalist is enjoying her biggest burst of popularity since she lit up the scene with Harlan Leonard's Kansas City Rockets in the 1940s and the long-delayed accolades keep coming.
Unending accessory quest
Designers know shoes, purses can make an outfit
What's likely to be the first thing to jump out at you when you open a woman's closet? If it's not the scores of shoes that come tumbling out every time the door is opened, it's probably the handbags that rain down from the top shelf.
Mark Zwahl: Sensitive nature makes coffeehouse owner top bachelor
By Jim Baker Mark Zwahl's friends and employees think he's a great catch. In fact, 13 of them signed a petition nominating him as one of Lawrence's most eligible bachelors.
A few good-natured men
There's more than a few good men in Lawrence. The proof: the number of e-mails, letters and calls that came in after we ran a note asking our readers to help us find the city's most eligible bachelors.
Arts notes
Topeka Symphony announces new season Filmmaker to appear at Micheaux festival Jazz musician coming to Kansas City casino Antique show slated at Washburn University New Theatre sets auditions for 'Grease' Odd collections to be displayed Film series celebrates work of Billy Wilder
Foreign country: Talent contest brings out the wannabes
By Michael Newman The call came in: My country needed me. Well, OK, not my country, but country music. OK, so it didn't need me, but it needed someone.
Arts notes
University Theatre director steps down PAC books comedian Bill Cosby
Hats help art teacher through cancer treatment
"Hats for A Woman in Need of a Hat," an exhibition of Laura Dalrymple's photographs, will be shown through Sept. 15 at two Lawrence Bank locations, at 3500 Clinton Parkway and 100 E. Ninth.
Eric Bloom: Bloom fills time with campaigning, sports
By Kristin Callaway The person who nominated Eric Bloom as an eligible bachelor wonders why every girl doesn't want to date him.
Collins' sizzler is both sequel, prequel to 'Lethal Seduction'
"Deadly Embrace," the latest offering from best-selling author Jackie Collins, starts with a bang. As the story opens, Madison Castelli, one of the recurring heroines in Collins' novels, is taken hostage along with others in a Los Angeles restaurant by Uzi-wielding robbers.
Collected letters offer insight
Kaplan captures part of Hurston's life rarely seen
In 1960, Zora Neale Hurston died a pauper and was buried in an unmarked grave. She had imagined a better way to go.
Arts notes
Arts center director tapped for state post Exhibit explores figure drawing Theater recognizes work of volunteers
Men's fashions shouldn't fall
Details magazine advises potential male fashion victims not to let the summer heat affect their sense of style.
People
Cleaning up for The Boss Singer jazzed about award Novel fetches record bid Venice festival names jury
American Taliban ballad stirs debate
A new tune about John Walker Lindh by Nashville singer-songwriter Steve Earle has kicked up a fight between critics who feel he's unpatriotic and defenders who consider him provocative.
Evan Jackman: Manager says he's happy with his life
By Kristin Callaway Employees at Einstein Bagel Brothers nominated their general manager, Evan Jackman, as Lawrence's most eligible bachelor. It's obvious he charms them every day. "He is a great manager, hard worker, funny and good-hearted," wrote four of Jackman's college-age employees.
Dean Gubbels: Bakery manager's ready to explore Lawrence
By Kristin Callaway Hey good-lookin', Whatcha got cookin'?
Doug Yetman: Restaurateur definitely has the mojo
By Jim Baker Being nominated as one of Lawrence's most eligible bachelors can sometimes be a family affair.
Dan DePardo: Real-life MacGyver has many interests
By Jim Baker Someone thinks Dan DePardo is pretty special ? and a shoo-in to be included on any list of Lawrence's most eligible bachelors.
Saturday, July 27
TV legend tackles timely new project
Norman Lear, among the most influential television producers of all time, says his best production is yet to come. It won't be a TV show, though. It's a gift from the heart. "I am building a show," Lear said. "It's a revival, a red, white and blue revival ... that will get people to their feet, witnessing to the fact that they realize they matter as Americans."
Minnelli and husband plan TV show
What good is sitting alone in your room ... if no one is there to watch? Liza Minnelli and new husband, David Gest, will be staging a "Cabaret" at their house and you're invited.
Ozzy and wife face lawsuit
A producer has sued Ozzy Osbourne and the rock musician's wife, claiming the couple stole the idea for their hit MTV reality series "The Osbournes" from him.
Indoor shows, exhibits offer respite from summer heat
Area theaters offer a chance to get inside and take a break from the summer heat. Among the offerings are "Little Women," "Annie Warbucks" and "Alice in Wonderland." Here are some other offerings this weekend:
CD review: Ten Years and Running - MXPX
Punk-rock super band MXPX takes a stroll down memory lane with its 11th release. The CD features 16 of the band's classic tracks along with three new songs.
Results in: 'Van Hagar' wins
Sammy Hagar and David Lee Roth - Verizon Wireless Amphitheater, Bonner Springs, Kan. - 07/26/2002
By Michael Newman Sammy Hagar and David Lee Roth, touring together yet separately, demonstrate the difference between playing and performing. Hagar is all about having a blast and being delighted that his audience is there to be part of it. Roth just wants you to look at him as though he's still the king of MTV. Hagar's out there rocking people's socks off. Roth's just trying to pull this off.
Friday, July 26
Harley rumbles into new century
Motorcycle maker celebrates 100 years of classic machine
Harley-Davidson is in an enviable position for a U.S. company it has a brand and reputation known throughout the world, and orders for its motorcycles well into 2004. And its stock price is holding up even as the overall market plunges.
Still no denying Yes
Yes, Verizon Wireless Amphitheater - Bonner Springs, Kan. - 07/23/2002
By Jon Niccum When it comes to Yes, it's all about the lineup.
Arts notes
Theater to spoof Topeka protesters Lawrence youngsters in 'Annie Warbucks' Artists to show pottery in Maryville Leavenworth plans ice cream social
Israeli band RockFour searches for harmony
By Jon Niccum There have been many political bands over the years whose lyrics strive to effect some kind of social or governmental change. Then there are bands whose music is the main focus, but politics remain at the forefront of their very existence.
People
Queen pays homage to Beatles Myers gets own shagadelic star Winfrey headed to hall of fame
New daytime talk show may give Regis a run for his money
Regis Philbin and Kelly Ripa may soon have some new competition. The syndication company King World has produced a pilot for a daytime talk show with former ABC correspondent Jack Ford and comic actress Alexandra Wentworth, the wife of George Stephanopoulos.
'N Sync star puts vacation on hold to make 'Rent'
Joey Fatone cancels trip to Russia to put musical talent to work in smash Broadway musical
It's a real bummer when getting a new job means you have to cancel your vacation plans. Just ask Joey Fatone. The 'N Sync star was talking to his boy bandmates about an October visit to Russia where they'd watch cohort Lance Bass blast into outer space but then Fatone was offered a starring role in "Rent," so now his plans for a holiday are on hold.
Rush hour
Canadian trio steps back into limelight
By Jon Niccum What band has been together since the late 1960s and is currently enjoying some of its greatest radio success? Without the visual aid of a picture or headline, one might not guess Rush. But since the May release of "Vapor Trails," its first studio album in six years, Rush has been artistically and commercially reborn.
Thursday, July 25
Conan O'Brien chosen as Emmy host
The job of Emmy host is going to Conan O'Brien instead of NBC's top late-night star, Jay Leno. "We think it's Conan's turn to be seen by the biggest audience that will ever" see him, NBC Entertainment president Jeff Zucker said of the "Late Night with Conan O'Brien" host.
Pamela Anderson to undergo drug therapy
Pamela Anderson says she'll undergo medical treatment for hepatitis C that will leave her in a weakened state for nearly a year. The actress, who believes she contracted the potentially fatal disease by sharing a tattoo needle with ex-husband Tommy Lee, said on CNN's "Larry King Live" Tuesday that she'll start drug therapy in December.
People
Maternity worked into 'Malcolm' Angry song draws cheers Home on the runway Sharpton sues HBO
Colombian singer leads Latin Grammy nominees
Colombian folk singer Carlos Vives collected a leading six Latin Grammy nominations Wednesday, including album, record and song of the year. Vives, who won a mainstream Grammy this year for best traditional tropical Latin album, was recognized again by the separate Latin Recording Academy for his album and song "Dejame Entrar," which translates to "Let Me In."
Rob Lowe to leave 'West Wing'
Salary dispute reason for early exit
Actor Rob Lowe will leave NBC's "The West Wing" during the upcoming season, the network said on Wednesday. The actor decided to leave after finding out that Martin Sheen received a raise that nearly tripled his pay to $300,000 an episode, Variety and the New York Post reported, citing anonymous sources.
Wednesday, July 24
'Rumpole of the Bailey' star Leo McKern dies
Leo McKern, the Australian actor who gained fame as a curmudgeonly barrister in "Rumpole of the Bailey," died Tuesday at the age of 82, his agent said. McKern, who had been ill for some time, died at a nursing home near his home in Bath in western England, said his agent, Richard Hatton.
Acclaimed Jewish author Chaim Potok dies at 73
Chaim Potok, the rabbi-turned-author whose Orthodox upbringing inspired "The Chosen" and other best-selling novels that explored the clash between religious and secular life, died Tuesday of brain cancer. He was 73.
'Goldmember' viewers asked to zip it on cameos
New Line publicists are asking that film critics and journalists who've laughed at the cameos in "Austin Powers in Goldmember" to "zip it" when it comes to their reviews and stories.
Tuesday, July 23
Rappers lead pack for MTV video nominations
Rappers Eminem and Missy "Misdemeanor" Elliott and the rock band P.O.D. lead the nominees for this year's MTV Video Music Awards with six each, the cable channel announced Monday.
'Dreamland' reworks oldies with new sound
With seven out of 10 songs on "Dreamland" being covers, it seems as though Plant is phoning this one in, especially considering it's been nine years since his last solo record. Well, he is and he isn't.
From the mob to Little League
F. Scott Fitzgerald once quipped that there are no second acts in American lives. His adage seems doubly true for those engaged in a life of organized crime. Wise guys generally end up in jail or fitted for cement shoes. But Michael Franzese is trying to buck the trend. Profiled on tonight's "Real Sports with Bryant Gumbel" (9 p.m., HBO), Franzese is a reformed mobster who has become a Little League coach in southern California and lectures young athletes about the perils of gambling.
'Trading Spaces' lures big fan base
The Learning Channel hit gains Emmy nomination, cult following
She's not a movie star or a musician. Yet Genevieve Gorder stands surrounded by six teenage girls, each thrusting bits of paper toward her to sign.
Monday, July 22
Rodent, Hanks go neck and neck at box office
A talking mouse and a vengeful mob hitman fought to a virtual tie for the No. 1 film during an unusually slow weekend at theaters.
Heavenly visit for 'State of Grace'
Stephen Collins moonlights on his wife's show tonight, and the results are very amusing. Collins, who plays the patriarch of the long-running, G-rated Aaron Spelling soap opera "7th Heaven," has been married to Faye Grant, the star of "State of Grace" (7 p.m., Family), for 17 years. Grant plays Tattie McKee, Grace's socialite mother on this gentle sitcom about two best girlfriends growing up in North Carolina in the 1960s.
People
Stars still helping N.Y. New 'Harry' director named Stewart begins new chapter Stone plans return to film
'K-19' fails to surface
Harrison Ford's usually booming authority is like the Russian submarine he captains in "K-19: The Widowmaker." It's a bit leaky. And at 300 meters under the sea, we know what happens to little leaks.
Sunday, July 21
Cast builds sisterly bond
It's easy to guess from the sounds of constant giggling on the stage that the cast of Summer Youth Theater's upcoming dramatic production is filled with "Little Women." Although the show's cast is a combination of high school boys and girls, the plot centers around four sisters who are trying to grow up.
A time for a change
Kansas Public Radio looks forward to new home
By Jim Baker The housing situation of Kansas Public Radio home of KANU-FM 91.5 is less than ideal. The 100,000-watt public radio station at Kansas University has been in antiquated surroundings at Broadcast Hall since Kansas Public Radio's first day on the air, Sept. 5, 1952.
Michael Learned goes from TV mom to Albee leading lady
Michael Learned was struggling with a line during rehearsals of "All Over" Edward Albee's 1971 play being revived off-Broadway when a startling thought occurred to her.
'Wish You Were Here' details lifetime of stories
Although "Wish You Were Here" is about a family spending only one week at their summer cottage, the novel tells a lifetime of stories. The strong attachment between siblings, the lost love of a never-married aunt, the sputtering career of a dutiful son, the insecurities of a teen-age girl and the struggles of a recovering alcoholic are all tales told in Stewart O'Nan's affectionate, resonant book.
Excerpts from the 'Pact'
"We grew up in poor, broken homes in New Jersey neighborhoods riddled with crime, drugs, and death, and came of age in the 1980s at the height of a crack epidemic that ravaged communities like ours throughout the nation. There were no doctors or lawyers walking the streets of our communities. Where we lived, hustlers reigned, and it was easy to follow their example. Two of us landed in juvenile-detention centers before our eighteenth birthdays."
Friends from Newark fulfill their doctor pact
Three men overcome long odds to achieve dream
As friends and family fell to violence and AIDS, three boys struggling to survive the mean streets of their inner-city neighborhood made a pact: Stay out of jail, stay in school and become doctors.
Arts notes
KU alum's composition being played in Bath KU Holiday Vespers tickets on sale Artists needed for street painting Entries being sought for Grand Nude Show CD to celebrate Langston Hughes
KU theater professor ready to research Roosevelt
By Jan Biles A Kansas University theater professor will be going to Washington, D.C., this fall to research the life of President Theodore Roosevelt for a one-man show he hopes to write and perform.
People
Pappy doesn't do propane Poundstone loses court ruling Designs on citizenship China lifts ban on singer
'Arf, arf!' quoth Shakespeare
Collie secures contract to appear in Bard's play
Little Jill is successful, intelligent and loves to slobber. She is 3 years old, stands 21 inches tall, weighs about 34 pounds and is covered with thick black-and-white hair. During her free time, Little Jill enjoys performing on stage, swimming, kissing and herding sheep.
Capt. Kangaroo hops into antique foray
Remember Captain Kangaroo? He was the star of the longest-running network children's show ever on television. The show debuted in 1955 and ended in 1984. The show was originally in black and white. It changed to color by the end of the 1960s.
Dance party a hit for Reno
'Saturday Night Live' parody-themed event raises funds for Florida gubernatorial campaign
Her campaign for governor has taken her across Florida in her red pickup truck. And now former Atty. Gen. Janet Reno has revved up her supporters with a dance party at a trendy South Beach club.
Drug charges against actor dismissed
Drug charges against actor Robert Downey Jr. were dismissed Friday by a judge who also ended his probation. Riverside County Superior Court Judge Randall D. White made his ruling after determining that Downey had stayed clean and sober for 14 months.
Life of Mexican artist reaches the screen
Frida Kahlo's life is like one of her paintings: a surreal experience with splotches of color that flirts on the fringes of reality, an experience even more intoxicating than some of the tall tales she told in her short life.
'Wascally Wabbit' tale is Faulkner contest winner
A classic rabbit "Oooooh that twickster and wascal" and a pudgy hunter emerge from a kudzu-like thickness and complexity of words in the winning entry of this year's Faux Faulkner contest.
Arts notes
KU Summer Band slates annual concert Auction a highlight of Big Pig BBQ JAMS teens to unveil painted benches
Gauguin show includes work never seen by public
When the Metropolitan Museum of Art set out to do a show on Paul Gauguin based solely on works in New York collections, curators had no idea how much they'd find. The results, they said, were surprising.
Saturday, July 20
'Sex and the City' begins season five
Baby brings changes to show's plot, style
Oh, baby! The fabulous four of "Sex and the City" are back, but the click-click of their stiletto heels is being challenged by the pitter-patter of little feet.
People
Diana fountain in official hands Music mogul still loves Martha Osbourne offspring jumps off pier Collins taking talents to daytime
Seattle musicians organize 9-11 'Requiem' concerts
A group of Seattle singers organizing a series of worldwide performances of Mozart's "Requiem" for Sept. 11 say they have gotten thousands of e-mails in support of the idea.
Osbourne's cancer spreads
After having a foot of her colon surgically removed this month, Sharon Osbourne has learned that her cancer has spread.
Friday, July 19
'Stuart Little 2' similar to original
I was all set to complain about how "Stuart Little 2" is exactly like the first movie when it occurred to me that that's what young "Stuart" fans want: a bedtime story that's as comforting and familiar as the bedtime story they read last night.
People
Ventura silent about lung illness Smoking Crowe haunts station Cruz collecting for charity Steel's art not lost on French
Rapper Mystikal, 2 others accused of rape, extortion
Top-selling rapper Mystikal and two other men were jailed Thursday on charges they raped an acquaintance at his house.
Jolie divorcing Thornton
Angelina Jolie, who recently admitted that she has not spoken to husband Billy Bob Thornton in at least a month, has filed for divorce, citing irreconcilable differences.
'Six Feet Under' leads Emmy picks
HBO show lands 23 nominations
The macabre HBO funeral home drama "Six Feet Under" received a leading 23 Emmy nominations Thursday, as the television academy recognized an unusually wide range of shows and performers.
Sale to bring changes for downtown dance club
By Chad Lawhorn A tentative deal has been reached to sell The Granada, a downtown bar and dance club, and the business will close for an unspecified period of time beginning early next month. Mike Elwell, a partial owner of The Granada building, confirmed Thursday he had reached a deal to buy out the ownership interest of Granada operator Brett Mosiman.
Coal Chamber sings new youth rebellion
By Michael Newman When Eddie Cochran recorded "Summertime Blues" in 1958, whining about "a-workin' all summer just to try to earn a dollar" could suffice for youthful rebellion.
'Robot' borrows from '80s culture
The new cartoon "Whatever Happened to Robot Jones" (8:30 p.m., Cartoon Network) puts a mechanical spin on adolescent angst. Jones may think he's an average sixth-grader, but he's actually a 3-foot, 8-inch tall robot weighing 500 pounds with a 9,468 mega-volt memory. This puts him at a distinct disadvantage when the gym teacher orders him to join the rest of the boys in the shower after physical education class.
Harmonica master McBee, others unveil projects
By Jon Niccum Lee McBee has something to harp about. The veteran Lawrence musician just released a solo album, "Soul Deep," available on California's Pacific Blues label. The 12-song effort finds the singer/harmonica wizard showcasing his spirited brand of modern blues, in collaboration with a host of established players.
Giant spiders attack in 'Eight Legged Freaks'
By Jon Niccum In the isolated town of Prosperity, Ariz., a mining company heir (David Arquette) and a local sheriff (Kari Wuhrer) learn from her son (Scott Terra) that a chemical spill has caused an array of exotic spiders to grow to enormous size. Feasting on pets, livestock and eventually residents, the aggressive beasts wage an assault on the dozens of survivors, who take refuge in a downtown mall. If Prosperity had a drive-in movie theater, this is where "Eight Legged Freaks" would likely play. And by no means is that an insult.
Are you a 'Creature Feature' fan? Find out
It's been a good year for big-screen arachnids, what with "Spider-Man" and those spider-like surveillance-bots in "Minority Report." And now comes the creepy-crawly sci-fi comedy "Eight Legged Freaks," about a toxic spill that causes spiders to grow and grow ... and grow. Dufus hero David Arquette and shotgun-toting sheriff Kari Wuhrer battle these amazingly life-like, computer-generated mutants as they swarm from the desert and lay siege to the town mall.
Thursday, July 18
Home Shopping Network turns 25
From can openers to cubic zirconia, TV sales have become a multibillion-dollar business
Bobbi Ray Carter is at the top of her selling game, describing in loving detail an elegant beige jacket with a ruffled collar. She has been going at it on live television for three hours, with nothing more to guide her than some talking points, a knowledge of her audience and some abiding principles: Be trendy, be youthful and wear something fabulous.
History Channel offers fish tales
Was Flipper a double agent for the KGB? The History Channel series "Inside the Soviet Military Machine" concludes with "Dolphin Soldiers" (8 p.m.). As strange as it sounds, these smart swimmers became pawns in the Cold War.
'Chamber' of horrors
Coal Chamber with Lollipop Lustkill, Five Pointe O and Medication - Granada Theatre, Lawrence, Kan. - 07/17/2002
By Michael Newman When Eddie Cochran recorded "Summertime Blues" in 1958, whining about "a-workin' all summer just to try to earn a dollar" could suffice for youthful rebellion. In 2002, with a world looking infinitely more dangerous, confusing and vacant to young people, it's no surprise that there are flavors of rock 'n' roll that raise a much bigger fuss and a much louder holler.
Get Up Kids grow up
It must be somewhat frustrating for a band who formed as teens eight years ago to realize they're not kids anymore especially when The Get Up Kids' own name reminds them of this every day.
People
Angelina, Billy Bob on the rocks Expanding artistic frontiers Widespread sorrow Bob Barker on the mend
Creator's daughter takes over as sole author of Dear Abby
After sharing a byline, Jeanne Phillips will now be acknowledged as the sole writer of the Dear Abby advice column her mother created. Pauline Phillips, 84, acknowledged in December 2000 that she had shared writing duties with Jeanne Phillips since 1987.
Wednesday, July 17
People
McCartney back in the U.S. Diana's memorial delayed Political plans open Showdown at the Fonda ranch
Bad writing rewarded in fiction contest
Bulwer-Lytton competition named for 'dark and stormy night' author
With a putrid passage about a relationship gone bad, a word-puzzle creator who also crafts witty sayings for lapel buttons won the 21st annual Bulwer-Lytton Fiction Contest for horrible writing.
Romania warms to 'Cold Mountain'
Hollywood production brings much-needed income, chance to glimpse stars
The mayor of this drought-stricken village has never seen a movie with Nicole Kidman, but he'd like to make her an honorary citizen.
UPN's stake in 'Vampire Slayer' is bigger than Buffy
Could UPN's "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" continue, in time, without its title character? Both the series creator and UPN's president say it's possible. Sarah Michelle Gellar, who has starred as Buffy since the show's 1997 inception on the WB, has a contract that runs through the end of the coming season.
Fox introduces must-flee TV
Oh, blessed summer: a time for romance, walks on the beach, baseball, hot dogs, s'mores, sunsets, incandescent fireflies ... and some of the worst television ever committed to videotape. This wasn't always the case.
CBS plunges ahead with lingerie special
The criticism that met a racy Victoria's Secret show on ABC won't deter CBS from airing a new special with models strutting in skimpy lingerie, CBS executives said Monday. CBS President Leslie Moonves told the Television Critics Assn. that the program is a a change of pace for his network.
Tuesday, July 16
People
Stars vie for reality TV shows Di's brother feels shunned Benicio takes on Bogey Springsteen album has 9-11 theme
Boston bids goodbye to music director
Conductor ends 29 years at symphony orchestra with Tanglewood concert
In an emotional coda to his career directing the Boston Symphony Orchestra, Seiji Ozawa ended 29 years as music director Sunday by turning his back to the orchestra and conducting his audience in the first musical piece he encountered in Massachusetts as a young student.
CNN stands by Chung
Problems? What problems? Despite the critical thrashing Connie Chung's nightly CNN show has taken in its first three weeks complaints about everything from tabloid content to the screaming orange color scheme to the veteran anchorwoman's unexpected tentativeness she and her bosses insist everything is ducky.
Judge refuses to disqualify district attorney in Ryder case
A judge on Monday refused to disqualify the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office from prosecuting actress Winona Ryder on shoplifting charges, rejecting her lawyer's claim that prosecutors have been trying to humiliate her.
Film peeks into 'refrigerator'
When in doubt, blame Mom. That may sound trite, but such thinking once formed the cornerstone of medical thinking about the origins of autism. This controversy unfolds on the poignant and provocative documentary "Refrigerator Mothers" on "P.O.V." (9 p.m., PBS Channel 11).
'Funnyman' relishes unfunny image
By Jon Niccum A capacity crowd wedged its way into the confines of The Replay Lounge on Saturday to witness a type of entertainment rare for the club: comedy. Neil Hamburger, an underground comic whose background is as much of an enigma as his material, aimed his act toward the hipster venue he was playing.
Monday, July 15
Hoops, Lifetime do it again
I never knew girls' high school basketball could be so vicious until I watched "Crossing the Line" (8 p.m., Lifetime). This latest message movie from the women's network stars Terry Farrell ("Becker") as Laura Mosbach, a former college basketball star who becomes the assistant coach for the championship girls basketball team at a small Michigan high school.
People
Tabloid takes shots at Harry 'Sopranos' to focus on marriage Sharpton has falling out Channeling new fees
'Men in Black II' keeps new movie releases at bay
Tom Hanks was outgunned by Tommy Lee Jones and Will Smith. "Men in Black II," with Jones and Smith saving the Earth from aliens, was the No. 1 movie for a second weekend, grossing $25 million to push its 12-day total to $133.3 million, according to studio estimates Sunday.
Tom Hanks takes dark turn
'Road to Perdition' casts actor as cold-blooded mob hit man
Mention cold-blooded mob killer and Tom Hanks in the same breath, and it doesn't seem to add up. The idiot sage of "Forrest Gump," the merry man-child of "Big" at the dispensing end of a Tommy gun?
World Online Exclusive: Spinning the Web - Ok, so I was wrong
By Michael Newman
'Lullaby' provides jazzy entertainment
By Jan Biles "Lullaby of Broadway" is a knockout of a show. The Broadway revue swept the audience off its feet Sunday night at the Lied Center with gorgeous harmonies and strong solos and jazzy and percussive dance numbers. The cast's accomplishment was tremendous in light of the fact that the show had been performed only once before in front of an audience.
Sunday, July 14
Arts notes
Depression glass dealers to show wares Poet laureates to read works on radio show Young actors active in Baker program Kemper acquires works by Warhol, Ruscha Wichita Symphony to fill vacancies
Play melds past, future of state's pioneering spirit
By Jan Biles The premise of John Gronbeck-Tedesco's "Prairie Fire: Parts 1 and 2" seems pinched: An astronaut returns to Earth to confront his Irish ancestors who are settling in the Kansas Territory.
'Crocodile Hunter' and wife feel bite of Hollywood
Whether he's talking about falling in love with his wife or wrangling nature's toothiest beasts, the Crocodile Hunter has the wild-eyed glee of a little boy showing off squirming critters beneath a backyard rock.
People
Rapper finds prison time doesn't stop the tax man Foreman: By George, she's not Mistaken identity plagues actor Music video too hot for Malaysia
'Springer' rated TV's worst show ever
The worst TV shows ever are pretty bad but "The Jerry Springer Show" tops TV Guide's list. "Awful television shows are a storied part of our society," TV Guide editor-in-chief Steven Reddicliffe said Friday.
News shows list today's guests
Networks have announced the guest lineups for the Sunday TV news shows.
Natural curiosity serves show's host well
Harry Smith has one of the greatest jobs in the world. He gets to be host to "Biography" profiles and to produce shows like the "Biography Close-up" on gambling he did a couple of years ago in Biloxi, Miss.
'Biography' marks a milestone
Series on A&E to broadcast its 1,000th show
A&E's "Biography" has been a model for everything from VH1's "Behind the Music" to E!'s "True Hollywood Story." Even the excellent personality profiles on Bravo owe something to "Biography," which first showed up back in the late '80s. And Monday night, the network logs its 1,000th "Biography" story, a look at the life of the late rock promoter Bill Graham.
Arts notes
Brad Paisley on tap at Earhart Festival Lawrence illustrator in exhibit at K-State Muscle cars, Harleys to be shown
Singer plans to croon his way to fame, releases second CD
By Kristin Callaway Louis Bia moved to Lawrence to become famous. "I want to be a star," he said. Bia is a crooner in his mid-30s who is trying to make it big. He is hoping his second CD, "Yesteryear," will put him on the charts.
Haskell University lands contract for summer theater program
By Jan Biles Seven university students are helping usher in a new era in American Indian theater this month at Haskell Indian Nations University. The students are the inaugural class of a three-year Project HOOP workshop, a grant-funded initiative to establish American Indian theater as an integrated subject of study at tribal colleges, American Indian communities and K-12 schools.
Arts notes
Russian exhibit looking for volunteer help Book group focuses on works of Steinbeck Family barn dance slated at rec center China expert to talk at antiques session
Masterpieces small enough to be sent in the mail
Lawrence Arts Center to display 25th and final Kansas postcard series
By Jim Baker Art doesn't have to be big to be great. Proof of that will be evident in an upcoming exhibition at the Lawrence Arts Center, 940 N.H., which will host the 25th and final Kansas Artists Postcard Series Friday through Aug. 30.
Composer hopes 'Seven' is his lucky number
By Jan Biles For the past two years, pianist Seth Osburn has been working on his first solo CD. It ended up being as much an intellectual journey as an artistic one. The original compositions on "Seven" reflect Osburn's fascination with alchemy.
Exhibit is snapshot of talent
By Jim Baker The Lawrence Photo Alliance, a group of amateur and professional photographers, will mount an exhibition of its members' work Friday through Aug. 30 at the Lawrence Arts Center, 940 N.H.
Pace frenetic in McMurtry's 'Sin Killer'
In "Sin Killer," Larry McMurtry hurtles into the first of a planned tetralogy of the Great Plains, circa 1832, called "The Berrybender Narratives." The Berrybenders are a noisy, bickering brood of English aristocrats traveling the Missouri River with an entourage of servants, guides and natives, making their way to Yellowstone aboard a luxury paddleboat.
Mosley resurrects popular detective
Easy Rawlins back in 'Bad Boy Brawly Brown'
When Walter Mosley's family would gather on Friday and Saturday nights, the stories would start. "My father," the author says, "was by far the best storyteller on both sides of the family."
Arts notes
Large, close-up portraits carry out artist's theme Couple to give historical portrayal at museum
Musicians to help promote breast cancer awareness
By Jan Biles A young woman visiting Lawrence for the summer is organizing a concert to help women with breast cancer. Breastfest will begin at 3 p.m. July 21 at Abe and Jake's Landing, Sixth and New Hampshire streets.
Nature illustrators to gather in Lawrence next month
By Jan Biles About 150 natural science illustrators are coming to Lawrence in August for their annual conference, and several special events are being planned to make their stay more educational and enjoyable.
Natural causes
Animal and plant life inspire artworks
Creepy crawlies contrast with beautiful flowers in the latest exhibition at the Helen Foresman Spencer Museum of Art at Kansas University. "Fish, Flowers and Flying Things: Nature at the Spencer Museum" is made up of works of art from the collection depicting a variety of flora and fauna, including fish, amphibians, reptiles, plants, mammals, birds and insects.
Saturday, July 13
Broadway show, Michael Feldman enliven Lied Center this weekend
Plays, musicals and concerts are heating up stages across the area. Here are some events you might want to check out:
People
Simpson's ex charged with cruelty Shaq attacks new career as cop Travolta flies Australia skies Blake asks appeals court to order hearing on bail
Sesame Street to introduce HIV-positive character
Episodes of "Sesame Street" may soon be brought to you by the letters H, I and V. Sesame Workshop, the organization that produces the long-running children's show, says it will introduce an HIV-positive Muppet character to the cast of its South African program this fall and is discussing a similar move in the United States.
Garage bands rejuvenate rock
Hives, White Stripes and others abandon darker side of music
Pelle Almqvist never could understand the connection between loud guitars and being miserable. You're up on a stage jumping around, making a loud noise with women adoringly gazing at you.
Friday, July 12
Moby; the white wail
Moby - City Market, Kansas City, Kan. - 07/11/2002
By Michael Newman Nobody listens to techno anymore. Eminem says so. Heck, even Moby says so too. They could be right.
People
New York honors shooting victim Bergen defends Quayle speech Director Demme snares award Pornographer in more trouble
Springer sued for 'creating a mood' prior to guest's death
Talk show host Jerry Springer was sued Wednesday by the son of a former guest, killed by her ex-husband hours after the airing of an episode the couple had appeared on involving love triangles.
Donahue redux: TV host returns
Champion of liberal viewpoint will appear Mondays on MSNBC
In the beginning, there was Phil.
'Collision course' shares goofiness of TV-series original
The Crocodile Hunter, Steve Irwin, Mr. "Don't try this at home!" makes a terrific, kid-friendly big-screen debut in "The Crocodile Hunter: Collision Course." The movie surrounding him is as lame as a three-legged dingo. But Irwin, the open-faced, wide-eyed and heroic goofball naturalist, shines in a comedy that entertains as it teaches us about the killer critters Down Under.
Quirky cop headlines new drama
The new series "Monk" (8 p.m., USA) may not feature the first dysfunctional detective, but Adrian Monk (Tony Shalhoub) is certainly the most memorably addled television gumshoe since BBC's "Cracker."
'Perdition' joins elite company of mob movies
By Jon Niccum Every decade gives rise to a great mob movie. The '70s provided the first two "Godfather" masterpieces. Sergio Leone's vast epic "Once Upon a Time in America" dominated the '80s, while the '90s offered Martin Scorsese's much imitated "Goodfellas."
Comedy is not pretty
Neil Hamburger finds niche with 'bad' humor
By Jon Niccum Neil Hamburger is heralded as "America's Funnyman." Only what he does isn't necessarily funny.
Thursday, July 11
'Halos and Horns' returns Dolly Parton to country music
Country queen Dolly Parton made her bluegrass debut two years ago with the highly acclaimed "The Grass Is Blue." And her mountain-music follow, "Little Sparrow," drew rave reviews last year.
People
Full recovery expected Giuliani divorce settled Van Halen, Bertinelli split Madonna's Bond ambition
John Entwistle's funeral conducted in England
Family, friends and surviving members of the iconic British rock band The Who attended the funeral of virtuoso bass player John Entwistle on Wednesday at a rural church.
Jackson, Sharpton make strange duet
Singer's stand against recording industry may be about Sony feud
No one expects conventional behavior from Michael Jackson. But the singer considered one of the most eccentric figures in show business has stunned everyone with his latest pose: labor activist and sidewalk protester.
Special looks at tiger rebirth
Maybe "Jurassic Park" wasn't so far-fetched. "End of Extinction: Cloning the Tasmanian Tiger" (9 p.m., TLC) examines a serious effort to revive a species that was wiped out in 1936.
Wednesday, July 10
People
Lots of good years left Author makes King-sized splash Mike Myers shoots for Moon Ventura treated for blood clot
Oscar winner Rod Steiger dies
Rod Steiger, who played Marlon Brando's mob-connected brother in "On the Waterfront" and won the 1967 Oscar for best actor for his role as the redneck Southern police chief in "In the Heat of the Night," died Tuesday. He was 77.
Letterman: Comfort at CBS superseded ABC overture
fter weighing an offer to jump to ABC, David Letterman said he ultimately felt his comfort with working at CBS was more important than the challenge of someplace new. But the talk show host admitted ABC's overture was tempting.
'Big Brother' a never-ending saga
Six men and six women submit to the indignity of surveillance and incarceration on "Big Brother 3," (8 p.m., CBS). Julie Chen, who once called herself a journalist, returns to host the series.
Dolly Parton launches first tour in decades
At 56, Dolly Parton is teaming up with an old friend: the road. The country music veteran today will launch a 13-city tour that starts in New York. Parton said she decided to begin her first tour in decades because fans were clamoring for it.
Tuesday, July 9
'All-Star Game' in Milwaukee
Baseball celebrates its mid-season break with the 73rd annual "All-Star Game," (7 p.m., Fox) live from Miller Park in Milwaukee. Joe Buck and Tim McCarver will provide play-by-play coverage and colorful commentary and Jeanne Zelasko and Kevin Kennedy will anchor pre-and post-game coverage.
Collector keeps TV history alive
Aficionado holds Lucy's wig, Cher's gowns and the stories behind them
James Comisar is whistling a happy tune as he scrounges through a rack of clothing. From the thousands of items in his TV memorabilia collection, Comisar plucks out sheriff's costumes used in "The Andy Griffith Show" as he evokes a few bars of the show's theme song.
People
Work is her workout Writer opens new chapter of life Athletes fear critics, actors don't Easy to play 'Like Mike'
Iran's most famous dancer found guilty of corrupting youths
Ruling that teaching traditional Iranian dance corrupts the nation's youth, a court banned an Iranian-American dancer from leaving Iran for 10 years and from giving dance classes for life, his lawyer said Monday.
New service brings celebs to cell phones
You've probably accepted by now that Britney Spears is never going to call, even if she actually had your number. That doesn't mean, however, that she won't leave you voicemail for a price.
'Fantasticks' producer Lore Noto dies at 79
Lore Noto, producer of "The Fantasticks," the world's longest running musical, died Monday after a long battle with cancer. He was 79. It was Noto, a former actor and artists' agent, who saw the possibilities in a small one-act show written by Tom Jones and Harvey Schmidt when it was first produced in 1959 at Barnard College in New York.
Monday, July 8
It's Dave versus himself
Ted Koppel will work overtime for the remainder of 2002, hosting the new interview series "Up Close" (11:05 p.m., ABC). While Koppel's "Nightline" has focused on a single topic or news story every weeknight since 1979, each episode of "Up Close" will be dedicated to a single person, famous or unknown, who may have never before appeared on television.
CD reviews
Up All Night: Pete Wernick's Live Five The Pioneers of Bluegrass: Featuring 20 of Bluegrass Music's Greatest Hits: Various Artists
People
Czech-in key Dalai Lama biding time Jewel goes back to school Queen statue commissioned
'Men in Black II' has explosive July Fourth debut
"Men in Black II" grabbed fistfuls of little green dollars at the box office as the alien-busting sequel debuted with $54.1 million in its first weekend, slightly more than the original took in.
Anne Heche finds her 'Proof'
There's a method in the madness of taking Broadway role
You might think a play about madness would be the last thing Anne Heche would want to do these days. You'd think that delving into the torturous relationship between an insane father and his on-the-edge daughter wouldn't appeal to Heche after her much-publicized breakdown two summers ago.
Sunday, July 7
"Printed Art and Social Radicalism" draws from museum's collection
Print exhibit at Spencer Museum focuses on radical politics
By Michael Newman In describing the exhibit "Printed Art and Social Radicalism," Kansas University's Spencer Museum of Art senior curator Stephen Goddard observes "graphic arts can be efficiently and inexpensively distributed in large numbers and they therefore lend themselves to such political image making."
Author Edna Ferber graces new stamp
Novelist, short-story writer, playwright, and one of the most prolific authors of the 20th century, Edna Ferber is hailed on a new U.S. 83-cent stamp to be released this month.
People
Whistleblower cautions on July 4 about Americans' loss of liberties Bowie knifes British media Director works past stereotype of emotionless American Indians Ad-lib turns into a life-saver
Director of 'Birdman of Alcatraz,' 'Manchurian Candidate' dies at 72
John Frankenheimer, director of such Hollywood classics as "The Manchurian Candidate" and "Birdman of Alcatraz," died Saturday. He was 72.
Networks announce news show lineups
Guest lineup for the Sunday TV news shows.
Sun shines again on Apollo
Famed Harlem theater undergoing renovation, rebirth
Sammy Davis Jr. strolled out, stared at the audience and lost his voice. Smokey Robinson taught the Temptations the words to his latest song, "My Girl," moments before they took the stage. And a family named Jackson appeared on Amateur Night and became superstars.
Review: Wambaugh explores case of firefighter turned serial arsonist
Joseph Wambaugh, a former detective with the Los Angeles Police Department, is best-known for the gritty police tales he created in "The New Centurions," "Blue Knight," "The Onion Field" and "Choirboys."
'Gunsmoke' star revels in show
Arness details his TV heyday in new autobiography
Some actors cringe at the thought of looking at performances they gave years ago. Not James Arness. The longtime Marshal Matt Dillon of Dodge City watches TV reruns of "Gunsmoke" every day.
Arts Note
KU student portrays Amelia Earhart
Arts Notes
Lied Center names new board members KC-area water gardens listed on tour Fiction writer to offer family story workshop
Hollywood's in a family way with child-friendly films
The family that pays together has really caught Hollywood's eye. It's prime time for the family film, with studios putting more resources into wholesome fare, recognizing the value of movies that can take in four or five admissions at once when parents turn out with the entire brood.
Arts Notes
Photo Alliance to meet at arts center Oskaloosa quilters to have show Shape note singers to gather at museum
Arts Note
Steam show is part of Farm Heritage Days
Apple Valley Farm continues 'Drunkard' tradition, debuts musical
The Karen Hastings Players have kicked off its summer season at the Dale Easton Barn Theatre at Apple Valley Farm with another turn of its longtime running melodrama, "The Drunkard."
Single tickets for Lied Center events to go on sale
Single tickets for the Lied Center Series events will go on sale Monday. The lineup includes:
Dancers use torsos, sign language to tell tales
By Kristin Callaway A Turkish folk tale, Iraqi music, Lebanese dance steps and American Sign Language will combine to create a unique night of Middle Eastern culture during "Cairo on the Kaw VIII Tell Me a Story."
Tales from the prairie
Stories of settlers drive KU professor's plays
By Jan Biles Marianne Kubik didn't know much about the prairie before signing on to direct and choreograph "Prairie Fire," a pair of new plays for Kansas Summer Theatre. The plays, written by KU theater professor John Gronbeck-Tedesco, are based on reminiscences and oral histories about early Kansas history.
Arts Notes
Spencer exhibit explores art and social radicalism Journal-World is looking for most eligible bachelor
Whad'ya know?
Radio host Michael Feldman bones up on Lawrence
By Jan Biles Ask radio quizmaster Michael Feldman "Whad'ya know about Lawrence?" and his responses reveal the answer: very little. "You have an electric chair there," he says. Uh, no.
Broadway's best
Youthful cast brings renewed energy to songs, dances
By Jan Biles "Lullaby of Broadway," a song and dance extravaganza being staged July 14 at the Lied Center, has the feel of a "Little Rascals" episode: A bunch of friends and colleagues get together and decide to put on a show.
Saturday, July 6
'Panic' welcomed at Starlight Theatre
Widespread Panic - Starlight Theatre, Kansas City, Mo. - 07/05/2002
By Michael Newman Kansas City, Mo. The latest in this summer's seemingly endless string of jam bands to pass through the area, Athens, Ga.'s Widespread Panic drew a throng of young tour followers, old hippies and college kids to Starlight Theatre in Kansas City's Swope Park on Friday night.
Sean Maher lights up new series 'Firefly'
Joss Whedon's sci-fi/Western series "Firefly," set to air Fridays this fall on Fox, has had its ups and downs so far, what with a last-minute pickup and revisions to what will be the opening episode, but actor Sean Maher is still happy to be there.
Factories deserve protection, too
Are old factories worth preserving? Many Americans recognize the historical value of battlefields, churches and houses where George Washington slept, but how about a run-down pumping station? "Save Our History: America's Most Endangered 2002" (9 p.m., today, History) highlights threatened, one-of-a-kind treasures.
People
Newlyweds make public debut Canada honors Mitchell, Cockburn High Court sides with Hendrix kin
Harry Potter a hairy dwarf in phony Chinese sequel
Roll away, "Sorcerer's Stone"! Step aside, "Prisoner of Azkaban"! Harry Potter and Leopard-Walk-Up-To-Dragon are here! Chinese fans of the British boy wizard with the lightning-bolt scar on his forehead are snapping up the fifth book in the wildly popular series.
Mystery writer dies after fall
Author and columnist Mark McGarrity, who wrote mysteries under the name Bartholomew Gill featuring the witty, shrewd Irish detective Peter McGarr, died Thursday when he fell from a stairway. He was 58.
Clooney laid to rest in hometown
Rosemary Clooney made a final journey to her hometown Friday for a funeral attended by family, friends and hundreds of fans.
Friday, July 5
Isaak's eighth disc still awaits listeners with suited tastes
Chris Isaak has no delusions that his music is complex, cutting edge or even remotely innovative.
'Blast' needs chemical reaction
Fans who only know Brendan Fraser from the forgettable "Mummy" film franchise should not miss "Blast From the Past," (7 p.m., Fox), a peculiar 1999 spoof of Cold War paranoia.
'Men in Black II' gets boost from stars
By Jon Niccum One would be hard pressed to name two actors less likely to hang out together than Will Smith and Tommy Lee Jones.
Kansas passes point of no return
The state's most successful band celebrates its 30th anniversary
By Jon Niccum For years, the one band synonymous with the heartland was Kansas. And after selling 30 million records over the course of the past 30 years, no Sunflower State act has ever eclipsed its success or longevity.
People
Rockers protest nuclear plan Roberts has Southwest wedding Dean's alma mater endangered 'Trek' captain up for honors
Beatle's attacker released from mental hospital
A paranoid schizophrenic who stabbed George Harrison on what he said was a "mission from God" was conditionally released from a secure hospital Thursday. The former Beatle's family called the decision "insulting."
Service allows video on demand
You've put in a hard day. Now you're ready to chill in front of the TV and watch some basket-weaving. Or maybe you've got a taste for motorcycles. Or outer space. Or Shakespeare.
Thursday, July 4
'Like Mike' likeable
Will Smith, watch your back.
Show 'rediscovers' Washington
Was George Washington sexy? While we may see Washington as the unsmiling figure on the dollar bill, he used his strength, stature and skill as a horseman to bedazzle his contemporaries and become the first American superstar. At least that's the theory that host Richard Brookhiser offers in the thoughtful 90-minute documentary "Rediscovering George Washington," (8:30 p.m., PBS). The 6-foot, 3-inch George Washington towered over his contemporaries. His height made Abigail Adams swoon, a fact that left her diminutive husband, John Adams, just a little jealous.
People
Osbourne mom has surgery Bob Barker also faces knife 'The Boss' pays for play 'Sopranos' grievance won't die
Bill Cosby's recent behavior is cause for concern
Something wasn't quite right with Bill Cosby.
Army recruiting becomes game
'America's Army' project gives glimpse of real military adventure
Attempting to woo computer-savvy young people, the Army will release today the first installment of an ambitious new computer game that will let players be all they can digitally be.
Wednesday, July 3
People
Aniston wins topless suit Salsa singer separated Third time down the aisle Furniture of the gods?
Hallmark Channel wins cable TV rights to 'MASH' reruns
The Hallmark Channel, the network owned by Crown Media Inc., announced Monday that it had obtained exclusive cable TV rights to the ageless sitcom "MASH"
Around the world in 13 1/2 days
On sixth attempt, balloonist Steve Fossett sets aviation record
In dark skies high above the ocean south of Australia, American adventurer Steve Fossett reached the milestone he has chased for more than six years becoming the first person to fly a balloon solo around the world.
TNT has film pooch-a-thon
How can summer bring both dog days and shark season? Turner Classic Movies kicks off a "Dog Days of Summer" film festival, celebrating some of Hollywood's favorite four-legged performers.
Tuesday, July 2
Pink Floyd's 'The Wall' recast in bluegrass
Luther Wright and the Wrongs aren't just whistling Hayseed Dixie on this album, which deconstructs and then renovates Pink Floyd's 1979 classic "The Wall" in its entirety as a bluegrass and country rock opry, with bales of hay replacing bricks.
AMC profiles notable 'warrior'
Fans of martial arts and movie history should pounce on the thoughtful, if curiously old-fashioned, documentary "Bruce Lee: A Warrior's Journey," (9 p.m., AMC). Lee, who died at age 32 in 1973, introduced Americans to new and innovative Asian martial arts techniques and opened up the west to Hong Kong's burgeoning film industry.
People
It's a girl for Chris Rock and wife Britain gives deadline for Princess Di's memorial No charges for Harrelson Move on, girls
Publishers engage in bidding war for 'Dirty Girls Social Club'
Even people running the copy machines at major publishing houses just had to read "Dirty Girls Social Club," which won a near-$500,000 book deal for a first-time author after a bidding war.
The Who gives emotional performance
Band plays for first time since death of bassist John Entwistle
The surviving members of The Who expressed their grief Monday night with noise instead of tears. Pete Townshend and Roger Daltrey, the surviving members of the seminal, 1960s British rock band, performed at the Hollywood Bowl in the group's first concert since the death last week of longtime bassist John Entwistle.
Monday, July 1
Movie audiences make good 'Deeds' showing
"Mr. Deeds" went to town in a big way as the Adam Sandler comedy debuted as the No. 1 weekend film with $37.6 million. Last weekend's No. 1 film, "Minority Report," slipped to third place with $21.6 million, according to studio estimates Sunday.
Gay pride paraded across U.S.
Colorful celebrations alternate between light, serious tones
Thousands of rainbows appeared under the blue sky Sunday as an estimated half million people lined the streets to celebrate diversity and progress during the city's 32nd annual gay pride parade.
'Incident' under the stars
The String Cheese Incident - Starlight Theatre, Kansas City, Mo. - 06/29/2002
By Michael Newman With the growing list of post-Grateful Dead jam bands out on the road these days, Colorado's The String Cheese Incident has its work cut out for it, distinguishing itself from among its peers. Saturday night at Starlight Theatre in Kansas City, Mo., SCI threw down its eclectic gauntlet before a less than half-full house, though it was still its largest KC audience to date.
World Online Exclusive: Spinning the Web - Web holds a wealth of resources for film buffs
By Michael Newman I don't go to the movies. I don't know when exactly I gave it up, but I long ago found that so few first-run films really benefited from the big-screen experience in a significant way that I couldn't justify giving up the perks that come with watching films in the comfort of my home. I think "Lord of the Rings" was the last time I decided it would be worth the trouble.
10-minute movies hit Showtime
Sometimes brevity can be a virtue. Showtime invited seven acclaimed international directors to make 10-minute movies for a summer film festival called "Ten Minutes Older." The cable network will air one film every Monday night at 9:45 p.m. over the next seven weeks.
People
More Americans in London Not to be confused with Nyla's Finished business, at last Proud to be an American
