MR GRADY'S DAILY BLOG: AMERICAS NEWS

Friday, November 29, 2013

AMERICAS NEWS

Shoppers pass on pumpkin pie to swarm jam-packed retailers as Black Friday arrives early resulting in massive lines, wild scuffles and arrests — SEE THE VIDEO

Americans gathered on Thursday to celebrate Thanksgiving by stuffing turkeys and braving cold winds along parade routes, while others started the holiday shopping earlier than ever in a trend that some argued went against the spirit of the holiday. read full story »

'SHE'S TO BLAME': Newtown families point finger at Adam Lanza’s mom for ignoring signs, having 'breakdown' in parenting

By the end of his life, there were telling signs that Sandy Hook shooter Adam Lanza had come unhinged. Now, the grieving families of his victims are blaming mom Nancy Lanza for not stepping in sooner.

A PARENT'S WORST NIGHTMARE: FBI hunt killer of 21-year-old 'free spirit' discovered brutally murdered — body dumped in Louisiana bayou

The FBI is hunting the killer of a Florida woman beaten to death and dumped in Louisiana bayou as she traveled the country "trying to figure out" her life. The battered body of Lindsay Louise Ellixson, 21, was found at 3 p.m. Saturday floating in water by fishermen in East Baton Rouge.

HE SLEEPS WITH THE PIGGIES: High-ranking Italian mob boss brutally murdered — and ‘fed alive to pigs’

Francesco Raccosta, who vanished without a trace from his home in Calabria in March 2012, is now believed to have been kidnapped by opposition mobsters.

The High-gella life: Nigella Lawson's assistants spent tens of thousands on shopping sprees: prosecutor

There were lavish, shop-'till-you-drop sprees to New York, Paris and Rome, with visits to designer stores including Prada, Miu Miu, Louis Vuitton and Christian Dior.

TASTY RESOLUTION: Pizza Hut says manager should be rehired who refused to open on Thanksgiving

The sprawling Pizza Hut chain got mountains of bad publicity after news spread across the country and the Internet that a manager was fired for refusing to open on Thanksgiving.

Selena sizzles at Cowboys game

Lostprophets rocker accused of raping baby is 'a drug-addicted pedophile who abused hundreds of kids': ex

Lostprophets rocker Ian Watkins was a drug-addicted pedophile who abused hundreds of kids during his years as a rock star, his ex-lover has claimed.

U.S. considers destroying Syria's chemical weapons on ship

Destroying Syria’s deadliest chemical weapons on land would come with vexing diplomatic and security problems as well as environmental issues. To avoid those potential troubles, U.S. officials say, the Obama administration is exploring the use of a government-owned ship to carry out the disposal in international waters.

Fake Facebook post says Washington state student committed suicide, but the youth is alive

A mother in the small town of Naches in Washington state says she is horrified by a fake newspaper story posted on Facebook that said her son, a high school student, had committed suicide.

12-year-old crashes SeaWorld float at Thanksgiving Day Parade to protest its treatment of orcas

Chanting, “Boycott SeaWorld,” and waving a sign that said the same, New York City resident Rose McCoy’s one-girl rebellion lasted about 30 seconds before cops brought her back to her mother.

EXCLUSIVE Conrad could testify in child-molest suit vs. Jacko's estate

Man born with his heart in his ABDOMEN awaits surgery to move it

Ho Zhiliang, 24, was born with what is being called congenital cardiac exposure syndrome. His beating heart is visible right below the skin of his abdomen and has been his entire life.

Germ killing centuries-old olive trees in southern Italy

A plant germ found in Europe for the first time is killing off centuries-old olive trees in southern Italy’s Apulia region, and researchers haven’t yet figured out how far the pathogen has spread.

Late Seattle man who clipped coupons and wore clothes with holes leaves behind $188 MILLION

As many are now learning, 98-year-old Jack MacDonald was never as poor as he dressed and lived, but was in fact a secret millionaire and philanthropist.

Israeli mom fined for refusing to have her son circumcised

An Israeli rabbinical court has fined a woman hundreds of dollars for refusing to have her baby son circumcised, officials said this week.

Holiday Gift Guide

The toys kids really want to find under the tree this year

From classic toys to sleek gadgets, we've rounded up the best kid-friendly presents.

Gift ideas for HIM: What to get the main man in your life

This year, be sure to get all the men in your life a gift they can't resist.

Thanksgiving meals unite struggling NYC families who survived a tough year

Marcus Colon and his family have survived Hurricane Sandy and unemployment and homelessness – but he’s thankful for his family. The Colons were among thousands of New Yorkers who were treated to Thanksgiving feasts across the city Thursday.

Comet ISON didn’t make it around sun: experts

Once billed as the comet of the century, Comet ISON apparently was no match for the sun. Images from a NASA spacecraft showed the comet was approaching the sun on a trajectory to slingshot around it on Thursday — but nothing came out on the other side.

New York chef likely victim of 'knockout game'

Philadelphia police are investigating a vicious, pre-Thanksgiving attack on a Manhattan chef who may have been the latest victim of the "knockout game" wreaking havoc on the streets. New Yorker Diego Moya, 30, who once tried out to be a chef-testant on Bravo's popular "Top Chef," was ambushed around 11 p.m.

'Judge Judy' prosecutor son should quit, lawmaker says

The son of television's "Judge Judy" is under pressure to leave his post as district attorney for Putnam County in New York, because of accusations he gave financial support, and leaked grand jury information to a former trainer who is charged with raping a child.

TGIF: Check out the hottest celeb photos of the week

Obama says he is thankful for founders, troops, freedoms

President Barack Obama says Americans have much to be thankful for this Thanksgiving. In a holiday edition of his weekend radio and Internet address, Obama gives thanks for the country’s founders, the generations who followed, and members of the military, and their families, for the sacrifices they make.

SEE IT The adorable moment a baby boy is rocked to sleep by the family dog

Heart-warming footage shows 8-week-old Jarvis Gethings being soothed by pup Baxter - as the captivating duo rest beside a toasty fire.

Navy crew member who helped rescue JFK dies

The last surviving member of the Navy crew that rescued future President John F. Kennedy from an island in the Pacific Ocean during World War II has died. Jack Gardo died in his sleep at his Greenville, S.C., home Wednesday. He was 87.

White House Thanksgiving dinner to have 9 types of pie...but what will President Obama choose?

Lucky guests at the White House will have their pick of huckleberry, pecan, peach, apple, chocolate cream, sweet potato, pumpkin, and coconut and banana cream pies.

'The Wanted' singer Max George hits beach with gal pal

BEAMING! Kate stuns in laser-cut dress at gala

Slain NYPD cop Ralph Dols' wife: I still cry for him

The widow of slain NYPD cop Ralph Dols claims she cries for him every day — even though she wouldn't testify against the mobster charged with killing him.

Earthquake near Iran nuclear plant kills 7, injures 45: report

The U.S. Geological Survey said the temblor struck some 8.7 miles northeast of Borazjan and some 38 miles north of the Bushehr nuclear power plant, which is near the port city of the same name.

Four killed by vehicles ahead of Thanksgiving Day

Four people died in three accidents during a half-hour span Wednesday evening, cops said. A 54-year-old cyclist on his way home from work was killed in Queens when a truck hit him just before 5 p.m., cops said. The driver fled and is being sought by authorities.

Lupica: Mets exec Shannon Forde stands tall in cancer fight

Shannon Forde, who has worked in the PR department for the New York Mets for almost half her life, whose life changed because cancer came crashing into it one summer day in 2012, will attend Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade with her husband and her two children today.

NRA shoots from the lip on Bloomberg, anti-gun group

So much for holiday cheer. In a new campaign timed for Thanksgiving, the National Rifle Association says New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg is “full of stuffing.”

Hamill: City Harvest battles hunger on Thanksgiving

Give her 46 million pounds of thanks this Thanksgiving. Because that’s how much food Jilly Stephens and her City Harvest staff of 150 — plus 4,000 volunteers and 54,000 donors — have distributed to the hungry of New York City this year.

Sports

Cowboys thankful for DeMarco Murray as 3 TDs lead Dallas to rally past Raiders

DeMarco Murray ran for three touchdowns, backup Lance Dunbar had a career-high 82 yards rushing and the Dallas Cowboys overcame Oakland’s fumble return for a score on the opening kickoff to beat the Raiders 31-24 Thursday.

Myers: Super road starts now

Forget about the Subway Super Bowl at MetLife Stadium on Feb. 2 — that’s just not going to happen. The best we received from the Giants and Jets this year was the prestigious Snoopy Bowl on Aug. 24.

Second Coming: Shaun Livingston's long, painful road back

Standing in Shaun Livingston’s way was 7 feet of Robin Lopez, rotating a little late but still there to contest a shot with an outstretched arm reaching above the rim.

Lions gobble up Packers to end Thanksgiving skid

Matthew Stafford made up for some mistakes with three touchdown passes, including one to Calvin Johnson, to help the Detroit Lions score 37 straight points after an awful start to beat the Green Bay Packers 40-10 on Thursday.

Autos

Cheaper gas prices could drive holiday sales

No one begs Santa Claus for cheaper gasoline. Yet falling gas prices are shaping up as an unexpected gift for drivers - and for people on their holiday shopping lists.

Latest Autos Reviews

Hottest Showbiz Galleries

Jennifer Lopez's hottest moments

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'The Hills are Alive' with Carrie backlash

City EMTs can be fired for drug test refusal: court

EMS workers who fail a drug test or refuse to provide a sample can be fired immediately by the Fire Commissioner without regard to any job protections in their union contract, an appellate court has ruled.

Occupy Wall Street couple can’t sue over Citibank arrest, judge says

Two Occupy Wall Street protesters can't sue the city and NYPD officers for false arrest in connection with an incident at a bank in Greenwich Village, a judge ruled Wednesday.

Grand jury declines to indict officers involved in Mohamed Bah shooting

A Manhattan grand jury has declined to indict any of the cops involved in the fatal shooting of 27-year-old Mohamed Bah, a mentally disturbed man who attacked them with a 13-inch knife, said the Manhattan District Attorney.

Court strikes down Bloomberg homeless shelter requirements

The state's highest court delivered a legal blow to Mayor Bloomberg, striking down his effort to require homeless adults to prove they have nowhere else to go before they can get into a city shelter.

'Pepper spray cop' to be questioned by civilian board: judge

Anthony Bologna, the NYPD Deputy Inspector who pepper sprayed Occupy Wall Street protesters, has lost his court bid to avoid being questioned by the Civilian Complaint Review Board about the incident.

Rudy Giuliani endorses ex-commissioner Bill Bratton to run NYPD

The former New York City mayor knows exactly who he'd like to see as the city’s next police commissioner: He’s already hired and fired him.

Gun-toting thug arrested hours after Miami father makes heartbroken plea from hospital bed about 10-year-old son’s murder

Cops arrested the 19-year-old gun-toting thug they say shot a 10-year-old Miami boy during an armed robbery of a nail salon Friday. Anthawn Ragan Jr. is charged with first-degree murder with a firearm, armed robbery with a firearm, and attempted first-degree murder with a firearm, WTVJ-TV reports.

Raymond Kelly's ex-aide forced out of job: lawsuit

A former federal prosecutor who served as Police Commissioner Raymond Kelly's NYPD special counsel says she was forced out of her job by a leading security company because she stood up for an African-American colleague against racial discrimination.

Evan Rachel Wood slams MPAA for cutting sex scene

Kim reveals how she took THAT selfie

Michelle Obama tweets support for immigration activists

Michelle Obama is wading into political waters, offering her heartfelt support for immigration activists as her husband faces criticism for his lackluster performance in working toward reform. The First Lady tweeted Tuesday in support of the Fast for Families activists who have congregated in a tent near the U.S.

IVY LEAGUE SHOCKER: Yale prof found dead in jail after scuffling with cops as they responded to fight between him, hubby

A young Ivy League college professor died in a jail cell after he was arrested in an attack on police officers, who were responding to a domestic disturbance at his house.

Supreme Court hears Obamacare arguments: What’s it all about?

The Supreme Court began hearing arguments Monday over President Obama's health care overhaul, the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, derisively labeled “Obamacare'' by its opponents.

Forced swimming brings parents attempted murder charge: cops

Sports-mad parents in South Africa face prison time for attempted murder over claims they forced their daughter to swim too much.

Tenants bust into apartments after being locked out

A group of Brooklyn tenants busted back into their rent-stabilized apartments Tuesday after their landlord had locked them out and marketed their units for more money. After a series of fires forced out tenants of the six-unit building in Brownsville, landlord Yuen Ip changed the locks and ignored the city’s warnings to let them back in, said Brooklyn Legal Services attorney Adam Meyers.

'Is a little literacy too much to ask for from these motherf---ers?' Firefighters to sue city over anti-Hispanic, Muslim discrimination

Two of the city’s Bravest say they’ve been discriminated against by their fellow firefighters — one because he’s Hispanic and the other because he’s Muslim.

Comics & Games

Sudoku Play Now! »

Cathy: Read Now! »

Wumo: Read Now! »

Pat Sajak's Lucky Letters: Play Now! »

Retro photo galleries

John F. Kennedy assassination: 50 years later

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Off-duty Mass. trooper admits to smoking crack before crashing into back of police car: prosecutors

An off-duty Massachusetts state trooper admitted that he smoked crack before crashing into a fellow officer’s car this week — after cops found what appeared to be track marks on the 19-year vet’s arms, authorities said.

'There will not be one dry eye when our family says grace': Courageous boy, 2, is a true Thanksgiving miracle, surviving 3 surgeries after being born with half a heart

The Thanksgiving menu for the Foley family features turkey and tears — of joy. Jack Foley, a redheaded tyke born with just half a heart, will celebrate with the clan mere weeks after his third reconstructive heart surgery at Morgan Stanley Children’s Hospital of New York-Presbyterian.

'She wanted to get her revenge': Jodi Arias' former cellmate says convicted boyfriend killer threatened a hit on prosecutor — and questioned why the lawyer 'didn't love her'

A woman, upper left, who bunked with Jodi Arias, upper right, in prison said the convicted boyfriend killer threatened a hit on a Phoenix prosecutor, center, if she got the death penalty.

Wheelchair-bound pup reunited with owner in time for Thanksgiving — was discovered dragging himself along Fla. street

A wheelchair-bound dog who walked on his own has been reunited with his owner after his story hit the TV news. The adorable special-needs schnauzer mix — called Puppy — was found dragging himself along the streets of Miami-Dade in Florida on Wednesday.

Tom Cruise spotted out with 'That '70s Show' star

Click here to view the 2013 holiday gift guide!

Editors' Picks

Casey Kasem’s kids don’t get to see him for Thanksgiving

Casey Kasem’s three kids from his first marriage didn’t get to see their father for Thanksgiving — despite a judge ordering lawyers to try to cook up a plan. “We are all disappointed,” daughter Kerri Kasem told the Daily News Thursday.

Brandi Glanville: I 'tried to be' a lesbian

Brandi Glanville will apparently try anything at least once — including romancing women.

PHOTOS Wildest Turkey Day celebrations

We dipped into the Daily News archive to find these great shots of Thanksgivings past.

Giant Vuitton suitcase booted from Red Square

Uproar ensued as an enormous Louis Vuitton suitcase was up to house an exhibit in Russia.

Kidd fined $50,000 for spilled drink

In the end, the Brooklyn Nets coach's most public and cagey coaching move was a bust.

Burberry fights to protect iconic pattern

The British trenchcoat maker has appealed a decision by Chinese authorities to cancel trademark protection.

PHOTOS: Macy's Thanksgiving Day parade takes flight

More than 3.5 million spectators braved New York City's bitterly cold weather to watch the 87th annual procession hit the streets on Nov. 28, 2013. See all the floats fly between Manhattan's skyscrapers.

Budweiser unveils tweet-powered knitting machine

The Knitbot recognizes and responds to hashtags and will continue knitting Christmas sweaters right up to December 6.

Viagra doesn't make men happier: study

While drugs like Viagra can certainly help men regain their erections, they won't make them any happier, a new US study claims.

Morrissey rips Obama and 'Thankskilling' in online rant

Morrissey will not be pulling up a chair to a table covered with turkey and fixings for Thanksgiving, and not just because he's British. The former Smiths front man, a longtime animal rights advocate, Wrote a note on his website titled "Thankskilling," criticizing the tradition of serving up turkey for the holiday meal.

Student who lost mother and siblings in horrible accident wins doc award about family's struggle

A film student who lost her mum and two siblings in a horror crash has won two major awards - after producing a heart-breaking picture detailing her dad's struggle to bring her up alone.

Justin Bieber gets cozy with blond in new music video

Justin Bieber gave fans an appetizer before the Thanksgiving holiday. The 19-year-old pop star posted a teaser to his music video "All That Matters" in the early morning hours of Wednesday.

SEE IT: Lonely toilet sits on a cliff in Siberia

This lonely lavatory has been dubbed the most extreme toilet in the world as it's perched on a cliff 2,600 metres (more than 8,500 feet) above sea level in SIBERIA.

CONFIDENTI@L Iconic photographer Peter Beard recovering after stroke

Beard suffered a serious stroke that has left city shutterbugs shaken.

GLEEFUL: Amber Riley wins ‘Dancing with the Stars’

On a season devoid of major celebrities, "Glee's" Amber Riley stayed a step ahead of the rest of the field on "Dancing With the Stars" for most of the past 11 weeks.

video Boy crashes bike straight into tree - dad cracks up

This is the hilarious moment a little boy bashed his bike straight into a tree — and caused his dad to burst out with non-stop laughter. The tiny tyke is caught on camera careering down a steep hill toward a wooded area on the brake-less wheels.

Brazilian virgin tells The News she's STILL on the hunt for Mr. Right

Like a virgin, planning her very first time. Brazilian beauty Catarina Migliorini's second virginity auction thrust her back into the spotlight, so the Daily News asked her how the deal will go down. But she has as many questions as anyone crossing that threshold.

Revenge complete, 'The Mentalist' takes new path

The second act of the CBS drama will probably be shorter than the first.

Patrick Stewart caught leaning on subway pole

New Yorkers, Patrick Stewart wants to make one thing clear: He is not a subway pole leaner.

Vonn won't let injury keep her from Olympics

Lindsey Vonn says she's still aiming to compete in Russia despite knee injury last week.

Blake’s dad undergoes unique heart procedure

Blake Lively and her family have a lot to be thankful for this Thanksgiving.

Implant may help people slim down

Scientists have created a complex circuit of genes that can be placed in the body to measure fat levels.

Huckabee’s radio show to end

The former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee has become the latest radio talk show host to fail.

‘Born to Run’ manuscript on the block

Handwritten working manuscript of Bruce Springsteen’s 1975 hit will be offered at auction on Dec. 5.

'Glee' asks fans to choose 100th episode songs

The hit show is giving opportunity to select which songs are sung on the show's 100th episode. Sort of.

'Life of Pi' animal monitor resigns from AHA after exposé

Gina Johnson resigned after admitting in an email that a tiger "damn near drowned" while shooting a scene.

Not so fast, JLaw

The reigning pretty woman Julia Roberts says Lawrence is ‘too cool’ to join 'America's Sweethearts' club.

Max Martini joins ‘Fifty Shades of Grey’ cast

"Captain Phillips" actor Max Martini will reportedly play bodyguard Jason Taylor.

Pinnacle rolls out Cinnabon vodka

The vodka brand is launching a new 70-proof Cinnabon vodka that tastes like the food court favorite.

PHOTOS Inside Chernobyl

Nearly 30 years after the world's worst nuclear disaster, haunting photos have emerged.

This week in NFL cheerleading

Forget the games, NFL cheerleaders gave us some of most memorable moments of Week 12.

PHOTOS Decades of turkey time

We dipped into the Daily News archive to find these great shots of Thanksgivings past.

PHOTOS Taylor jams with Bon Jovi and Prince William

The musicians rubbed elbows with royalty and even performed "Living on a Prayer."

PHOTOS Rock and roll heaven

What would various rock stars who died too young look like if they were around today?

Jimmy dons chicken suit dances with cancer patients

Jimmy Fallon is spreading holiday cheer by bringing smiles and laughter to children battling cancer.

Does Thanksgiving tryptophan really make you drowsy?

You might want to sit down for this, preferably at the dinner table, because everything you thought you knew about your Thanksgiving feast is a lie.

British tea shop unveils 'breathable' tea

The tea is supposed to deliver antioxidant properties more quickly to the bloodstream.

GoldieBlox ad removes Beastie Boys song

California toy company GoldieBlox caved to the Beastie Boys and removed the group's song from its incredibly viral video, dodging further legal drama over copyright infringement.

Lindsay Lohan shares photos of her cooking Thanksgiving treats

Lindsay Lohan has gone cold turkey from bad girl to healthy, happy holiday chef. Recovery looks good on the 27-year-old star, who posted several photos on her Instagram account showing off her handy work in the kitchen.

Send us your questions on Obamacare

The News will take questions about the Affordable Care Act from readers.

New varicose vein treatment gets approval in U.S.

Lovers of short skirts, rejoice: A new treatment for varicose veins has been approved in the U.S., its maker says.

'Fizzy' medicines may raise heart risk

Millions of patients worldwide taking effervescent, dispersible and soluble medicines have an increased risk of heart attacks and strokes because of the high salt content of such drugs, scientists said on Wednesday.

Anthrax guitarist Scott Ian inks memoir deal

Chalk up another heavy metal memoir for 2014: Anthrax founder and guitarist Scott Ian will publish an autobiography next year with Perseus Books Group, the publisher announced Tuesday.

Lara Logan ordered to take leave over Benghazi report

CBS has ordered "60 Minutes" correspondent Lara Logan and her producer to take a leave of absence following a critical internal review of their handling of the show's October story on the Benghazi raid.

Ciara channels Beyonce, flashes under cleavage in GQ shoot

Ciara is giving Beyonce a run for her money in a new photo spread for GQ Magazine. The "Body Party" singer mimicked Queen Bey's scantily-clad look for the February issue in a photo shoot of her own.

Mom finds dead snake's head in bag of frozen veggies

An Oregon mom had the s-s-shock of her life when she opened up a bag of frozen green beans and found a dead snake's head staring right back.

Significant other is hardest to buy for: survey

Good news for singletons: an online survey claims that for most people, shopping for their significant other's gift is the most arduous task on the holiday list.

He's out: Baldwin’s MSNBC stint ends in ugly divorce

Hit the bricks pal! In a classic chicken or the egg scenario, Alec Baldwin quit his MSNBC talk show moments before network brass fired him — or vice versa.

Vonn credits brace with saving knee, hopes to race next week

Ski racer Lindsey Vonn says the knee she injured in a Colorado training crash last week would have been damaged much more severely if she hadn’t been wearing a brace on it already.

‘Anchorman 2’ to be released in theaters two days early

Don't act like you're not impressed. The release date for the highly anticipated "Anchorman" sequel has been moved up by two days, Paramount Studios confirmed to the Daily News.

SEE IT Meet the puppy who's a dead ringer for Adolf Hitler

The adorable seven-week-old puppy looks so much like the former Nazi leader that he's even started responding to the unfortunate nickname. But his owners insist that he's a gentle and loving dog.

video Rescued dolphin thanks fishermen with dance

An adorable baby dolphin who had been trapped inside a plastic bag thanked his rescuers by performing a little dance.

SHOCK PATERNITY CLAIM: O.J. 'could be' Khloe Kardashian's biological father, ex-football player's manager says

The 29-year-old TV personality has been the center of allegations for years that Robert Kardashian is not her real father and now O.J. Simpson's manager, Norman Pardo, is reportedly claiming the former NFL player could be her dad.

George Harrison's sister cut off from estate: report

George Harrison’s sister doesn’t have any help from her friends — or family.

Nicky Hilton ex's swindler may go to jail in days

Renata Shamrakova could be locked up as soon as her next court date.

Joan Rivers offends EVERYONE while defending Baldwin

Don't worry, Alec Baldwin: Joan River's got your back. In a clip taken by TMZ, the 8-year-old comedienne defended Baldwin for the recent homophobic tirade that led to severing ties with MSNBC.

Prince William meets with Taylor Swift meets in London

Taylor Swift, Jon Bon Jovi and Michelle Dockery rubbed shoulders with Prince William at the Winter Whites Gala in London on Nov. 26, 2013.

Miley Cyrus shows off skimpy outfit, rap skills in new video

Miley Cyrus is rapping again. The pop star is featured in the new will.i.am song "Feelin' Myself," and she's definitely appreciating herself. Cyrus is dressed in a leather bra and panties and rhymes about popping molly in the club.

Woman makes second attempt to auction off her virginity

Her body is back on the market — not exactly virgin territory.

'I felt a great warmth': Disfigured man covered in boils speaks out about the loving embrace from the pope

When Vinicio Riva traveled to Vatican City in early November, he expected the same hostile treatment he’s gotten his entire life. But instead, the Pope hugged him tightly.

Big Cat Week stars animal fan Betty White

Betty White is a featured host in Nat Geo Wild’s annual Big Cat Week, which launches Friday.

TV REVIEW ‘Listening Is an Act of Love: A Storycorps Special'

Whimsical POV documentary is one of the great inspirations of the last 10 years.

Longtime 'Superman' illustrator dies

During Al Plastino's long career, he drew Superman, Batman, and Captain America.

Battle of the Thanksgivukkah ballads

If music is the food of love, we’ll all be stuffed this Thanksgivukkah.

'Hunger Games' training outfits sold online

You can now channel your inner Katniss Everdeen while exercising — and you don't need a bow and arrow.

Oldest book in U.S. sells for record $14.2M

A tiny book of psalms from 1640 has sold in NYC, setting an auction record for a printed book.

Tiffany's profits shine

Turns out Rihanna’s not the only fan of yellow diamonds.

Beauty deals on Black Friday and Cyber Monday

Now's the time to stock up on your favorite makeup and hair products.

Jazz drummer Chico Hamilton dead

The influential jazz drummer and bandleader, an architect of the West Coast cool jazz style, was 92.

Browns sign trick-shot QB Tanney

The Cleveland Browns are hoping their latest personnel move does the trick.

Kanye gushes over Kim K.

In an interview with Hot 97, Kanye West said Kim's the 'most beautiful woman of all time.'

PHOTOS Red carpet looks from the American Music Awards

See who hit a high note on the red carpet — and who should consider hiring a stylist next time.

Frankie Muniz suffers ANOTHER stroke

The ex-"Malcolm in the Middle" star revealed he had his second stroke in the space of a year.

Motorola’s cheap smartphone set for early release

Motorola will start selling a less expensive smartphone in the U.S. more than a month ahead of schedule.

PHOTOS Inside the Sandy Hook shooter's lair

Chilling photos give an inside look into Adam Lanza's bedroom.

'Thrones' scribe visits ‘Rings’ set

Fantasy fiction worlds collided as George R.R. Martin took a tour of the New Zealand “Lord of the Rings” set.

photos Gwen Stefani shows off her baby bump

Baby bumps never go out of style among the celebrity set. See which stars are expecting and who's showing off the bump.

PHOTOS They're en fuego!

Sizzling Spanish firefighters strip down for sexy calendar shoot to benefit Madrid Food Bank.

'12 Years a Slave' leads ISA nods

The antebellum-era drama leads the Independent Spirit Award nominations, with seven.

Women regret sex more than men: study

While women are more likely to regret casual sex, a man's only regret is not doing it more.

PHOTOS Ready for takeoff?

See how you can stay chic at the airport while waiting to catch a flight.

'Kirstie' brings Kirstie Alley back to sitcoms

Alley says she always wanted to play a diva who lives large in “a great brownstone.”

Guess which fiftysomethings made People's 'sexiest' list

When you think of New York governors, “sexy” doesn’t come to mind. But Albany is heating up — Gov. Andrew Cuomo has made the senior section of People magazine’s “Sexiest Men Alive” list for the second time.

First bookless library opens in San Antonio

“A library without books” would have been a punchline two decades ago, but that’s exactly the description of a new local branch in San Antonio, Texas.

‘Game of Thrones’ star mulls retirement from acting

The actor who plays King Joffrey is ready to abdicate the Iron Throne.

Avoid these celeb diets

Diets involving gulping air, nixing gluten and replacing meals with booze are the worst of the worst.

NFL star battles severe food allergies

A bowl of seafood gumbo nearly took down Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson in 2012.

Aiden Turner reportedly arrested for domestic violence

Aiden Turner was arrested for allegedly busting his girlfriend's eye with the remote control, reports TMZ.

Key characters dropping like flies

For whatever reason, prime-time TV erased a startling number of entrenched characters in the last 10 days.

Social media blocks sex: study

Research finds Facebook and Twitter may be altering the sex habits, and not for the better.

Alexa Chung is the new face of Longchamp

The British model, TV host and girl-about-town has signed up as the face of Longchamp's Spring 2014 campaign.

Madonna in Haiti to support ex Sean Penn

Madonna is in Haiti to visit humanitarian projects that ex-husband Sean Penn has been overseeing.

World's first leather wallet with GPS just in time for holidays

Just in time for gift-giving, a tech-savvy 20-year-old’s clever invention will hit the shelves: the wallet you’ll never lose.

Bidding starts at $90K for charity lunch, luxury seat with Yanks' Jeter

Wondering what to get the Yankee fan in your life who already has everything?

So much funnakah to celebrate Thanksgivukkah!

From the Menurkey and beyond, new ways to celebrate the once-in-a-lifetime holiday combo.

Miley Cyrus receives motorcycle as birthday gift from Billy Ray Cyrus

Happy vroom, vroom birthday, Miley! The pop star's country crooner papa, Billy Ray Cyrus, gifted his daughter with what every wild 21-year-old young woman needs … a motorcycle.

Kaley Cuoco, Ryan Sweeting to wed on New Year's Eve

Kaley Cuoco and fiancé Ryan Sweeting are set to start 2014 off with a bang.

Did Angie buy Brad a heart-shaped island for his birthday?

The actress reportedly shelled out $20 million for the grand gift.

Olympic skier Bode Miller loses child custody battle

The gold medalist appeared in Manhattan Family Court.

Chris Brown returns to rehab, set to fight assault charge

Brown plans to fight the charge he assaulted a man in Washington D.C. on Jan. 8.

Katy Perry's geisha turn at AMAs blasted as racist

Perry dressed as a geisha to belt out her latest single "Unconditionally."

‘Maltese Falcon’ figurine fetches $4M

The 45-pound statuette fetched a huge amount from a person who placed a bid over the phone.

PHOTOS Fresh-faced Tara Reid makes waves in Miami

These stars love flaunting their picture-perfect beach bodies.

PHOTOS FACE TO FACE: The world's most mesmerizing photos

Striking images taken by photographers around the globe.

PHOTOS Lady Gaga at AMAs roars in revealing nude bodysuit

Check out the stars who are putting their business out there in nude bodysuits.

PHOTOS World's most hilarious mug shots

You don't need to be a celebrity for your mug shot to be newsworthy.

SPOILER ALERT 'Family Guy' shocks fans with death of major character

Warning: Spoiler alert for Sunday night's "Family Guy."

One year later, Christina Aguilera stuns on red carpet

Christina Aguilera looked simply stunning on the American Music Awards red carpet.

MOVIE REVIEW 'Black Nativity'

Faith and music claim the spotlight in the spiritual drama starring Angela Bassett and Forest Whitaker.

Kendall Jenner talks Harry Styles date: 'We're friends'

The reality star and model maintains that she’s still single.

National Dog Show backs therapy program on NBC

The show will be promoting the therapy dog program, which is tied to the Angel on a Leash.

MOVIE REVIEW 'Frozen'

While the movie is loosely inspired by a Hans Christian Andersen story, these royal damsels represent a step forward.

PHOTOS J.Lo at the AMAs: All her dazzling costume changes

Check out her sexiest (and most controversial) looks through the years.

Katie Couric to anchor Yahoo’s video news coverage

Couric will anchor an expansion of the Internet company’s video news coverage.

Brittany Murphy’s mom disputes ‘absurd’ claim that actress was poisoned

She's refuting claims by Murphy's father.

Christina Aguilera stuns on red carpet at the AMAs

She received criticism for choosing unflattering outfits for her fuller figure at last year's show.

Beastie Boys fire back at GoldieBlox over use of ‘Girls’

They want the toys' video to stop using their iconic 1986 song.

Angelina Jolie spends time with twins amid 'Unbroken' shoots

The 38-year-old actress was spotted with her five-year-old twins Saturday.

SPOILER ALERT 'The Mentalist' wraps up Red John saga

One of the longest-running story arcs on prime-time ended like a 1970s-style vigilante vengeance movie.

Francesca Eastwood annulling marriage to Jonah Hill's brother: report

The reality starlet is apparently regretting the quickie Las Vegas wedding.

Rihanna turns heads in doobie wrap at the AMAs

The "Umbrella" singer’s wrapped hair has sparked memes and jokes.

PHOTOS French fans brawl at soccer match

Cops break out the pepper spray as visiting fans tear seats apart and toss them at home supporters Sunday.

EXCLUSIVE Bono, Chris Martin, others raise $26M at auction to fight disease

The season of giving got an early start Saturday night.

PHOTOS Mount Etna erupts in Sicily

Europe's most active volcano is erupting in Sicily, spewing ash on nearby towns.

MUSIC REVIEW One Direction gets older, edgier in new album

The twinkle-eyed boy band finally tries to go all the way.

Stars who wear sheer clothing

There's taking a fashion risk, and then there's walking outside in outfits that are completely see-through. With the paparazzi ready to snap their every move, you would think that celebrities would be smart enough to cover up before walking out in sheer clothing for fear of ... overexposure. Or is that the point? See who's playing a fashionable game of peek-a-boo and who is making a huge fashion mistake.

Celebrity beach bodies 2013

These stars love flaunting their picture-perfect beach bodies almost as much as they love getting all dressed up for the red carpet ...

Celebrity photos of the week: Week of November 25

See what all the stars were up to this week ...

Celebrity Thanksgiving

Celebrities have a lot to be thankful for, so it comes as no surprise that Hollywood's finest got into the Thanksgiving spirit. Check out how the stars spread holiday cheer.

Kate Middleton's top style moments

There's no doubt about it -- Kate Middleton is the reigning queen of style when it comes to all things glamorous, elegant and effortlessly chic. See the style icon's best moments ...

Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade 2013

Holiday gift guide 2013: Stocking stuffers

When it comes to holiday gift giving, bigger isn't always better. These stocking stuffers will absolutely delight ...

Holiday gift guide 2013: Last minute gift ideas

Need a present in a pinch? Don't worry. Use our guide to find the perfect last minute gift for anyone on your list.

Holiday gift guide 2013: Top picks for TV lovers

It doesn't matter what your favorite show is -- we've got you covered when it comes to picking out great holiday gifts.

Holiday gift guide 2013: Hottest toys for kids

From classic toys to sleek gadgets, we've rounded up the best kid-friendly presents sure to delight come Christmas morning ...

Holiday gift guide 2013: Best beauty picks

From pretty perfumes to holiday makeup picks she'll love, these presents are perfect for every beauty buff ...

Holiday gift guide 2013: Gifts for movie lovers

Film buffs will go wild for these presents.

Sports

Fox heading back to work as Broncos coach

John Fox is returning to work on Monday, less than a month after undergoing open-heart surgery, and he plans to coach the Denver Broncos in their game against the Tennessee Titans on Dec. 8. What hasn’t been determined is whether Fox will coach from the sideline or the booth.

Man U routs Leverkusen 5-0 in Champions League

Manchester United routed Bayer Leverkusen 5-0 on Wednesday to cruise into the knockout stage of the Champions League. Wayne Rooney did not score but played a role in four of United’s goals.

Star freshmen steal the spotlight in Preaseason NIT at Garden

Arizona star freshman Aaron Gordon gets to live out a dream on Wednesday. He grew up in Northern California, has played in exotic places as part of national teams and traveling teams. But one place he's always wanted to go is Madison Square Garden.

Flacco says wildcat makes Ravens a 'high school' team

Baltimore Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco is not a fan of his team’s use of the wildcat formation, saying “it makes you look like a high school offense.” In an effort to enhance their running attack in Sunday’s game against the New York Jets, the Ravens employed backup quarterback Tyrod Taylor in the wildcat.

NHL strikes $5.2B Canadian TV deal

The NHL has struck a 12-year, $5.2 billion agreement with Rogers Communications for all of the league's Canadian broadcast and multimedia rights.

Seattle's 'Legion of Boom' busted for drugs

A second member of Seattle’s “Legion of Boom” has been busted.A day after Seahawks defensive back Walter Thurmond was suspended four games for violation of the NFL’s substance abuse policy, cornerback Brandon Browner is facing a season ban for violating the same policy, according to multiple reports on Monday.

Arsenal's Bendtner arrested for causing criminal damage

Arsenal striker Nicklas Bendtner has been given a formal warning by police after being arrested for causing criminal damage at his apartment outside London.

Vikings release CB Jefferson over domestic assault arrest

The Minnesota Vikings have released cornerback A.J. Jefferson after he was arrested and jailed on a domestic assault complaint. The move was made on Monday. According to Hennepin County records, the 25-year-old Jefferson was being held without bail.

Madden: Baseball would be better off if they all could be like Mike

All you needed to know about the measure of the man who was Michael Weiner was to look around the packed, SRO Robert Schoem’s Menorah Chapel in Paramus, N.J., Sunday at the diverse gathering of baseball dignitaries who came from all over the country to say goodbye to the executive director of the Players’ Association, who died at 51 on Thursday after a nearly 15-month battle with brain cancer.

Northern Illinois out to bust BCS

Northern Illinois moved ahead of Fresno State in the BCS standings and up to No. 14 as the Huskies and Bulldogs jockey to be the last BCS buster. NIU jumped two spots Sunday and Fresno State slipped one to 16th.

Autos Galleries

Los Angeles Auto Show: Auto show girls' sexiest, wackiest moments

COOKING WITH THE STARS: Check the A-listers as they get into the Thanksgiving spirit — SEE THE PHOTOS

Celebrities have a lot to be thankful for, so it comes as no surprise that Hollywood's finest got into the Thanksgiving spirit. Check out how the stars spread holiday cheer. read full story »

	*Fred Biletnikoff*
	*Deion Branch*
	*Santonio Holmes*
	*Michael Irvin*
	*Max McGee*
	*Jerry Rice*
	*George Sauer*
	*John Stallworth*
	*Lynn Swann*
	*John Taylor*

Friday, November 29, 2013

AMERICAS NEWS

All-Time Super Bowl Team: Each week leading up to XLVIII we want you to vote for football's best by position.

Fred Biletnikoff

Deion Branch

Santonio Holmes

Michael Irvin

Max McGee

Jerry Rice

George Sauer

John Stallworth

Lynn Swann

John Taylor

ALL STARS - WIDE RECEIVER

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