Better Mood = Worse Memory

Do you have trouble remembering names at parties? It may be because your having too good a time.

Individuals who have trouble recalling facts that they had just studied or dialogue from a recent conversation may have experienced this type of memory loss because they were in a good mood at the time that they were learning or speaking, according to a recent study that was published in the journal Cognition and Emotion.

Though good mood brings along cheerfulness and positive feelings, it is also linked with forgetfulness, as such a state of mind decreases your working memory capacity. The investigators said they believe that good mood may reduce a person's capacity for working memory.

The ability to remember things may be tied to your mood, finds a new study by Elizabeth Martin, U of Missouri who says that hers is the first research “to show that a positive mood can negatively impact working memory storage capacity.”

While being in a good mood might decrease memory capacity, for the short term at least, it’s not all bad. "Being in a good mood has been shown to increase creative problem-solving skills and other aspects of thinking," says Martin.

Yahoo! set to unveil new search engine for the Indian audience

In a bid to take on Google, Yahoo! is all set to unveil its latest search engine “Search Direct” in India by the second half of 2011, said Prabhakar Raghavan, chief strategy officer, executive vice-president and head of Yahoo! Labs-India.

Yahoo rolled out Yahoo Search Direct this week, its boxed-up user-friendly rival to Google Instant search. Thus, Yahoo has unveiled an online hybrid search and display advertising model in a bid to boost its dwindling share of the search advertising market.

Meanwhile, Yahoo India is also considering whether to accept the product or business proposals from the people in India in order to expand its pool of ideas.

Mr Prabhakar said the Internet should be open and any efforts to stack on the basis of Operating Systems and exclusive applications could defeat the spirit of the Web that was built on openness.

Of its total workforce of 14,000 globally, Yahoo! has 2,000 employees at its R & D facility in Bangalore.

NEW MZ BRATT!! ft Wzzy Wow & Roses Gabor - Killin Em

We've had Selecta. Get Dark was hot but now Mz Bratt is KILLIN EM.

This is the latest track from British rap powerhouse Mz Bratt featuring vocals from Rose Gabor and Wizzy Woooowwwww!

She recently just been touring the UK with Bruno Mars and is set to overtake the British rap scene like petrol to a flame (Woo, now that was a bit cheesy!).

Check it out!...

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Web should provide useful technologies: Abdul Kalam

Former Indian president APJ Abdul Kalam urged the 20th International World Wide Web conference, being held for the first time in India, to initiate measures to enhance the benefits of the technology to the rural masses in the country in three years.

The World Wide Web (WWW) will soon emerge as an agent of societal transformation by connecting the rural masses with the outside world thanks to new mobile technology, former president said in Hyderabad on Wednesday (30-Mar-2011).

"The WWW community should now focus on developing technologies that can provide useful information to the masses on mobile platform using the latest 3G and 4G technologies. The world community is looking for a mobile device that can provide integrated solutions of 3G or 4G applications to people in their mother tongues," said Kalam while delivering the keynote address at the inaugural session of the 20th International World Wide Web conference.

"The future of the web is going to shift from connecting the corporates to connecting the individuals in the rural societies," Kalam said.

What's the frequency, Kenneth? Radio ramblings

Some thoughts on that medium that everyone says is obsolete but listens to anyway…

KGIL, an AM station in the San Fernando Valley is changing its format from “Standards” (i.e. Sinatra and maybe one Peggy Lee record a week) to “Classical”. With all the technology and improved fidelity these days, who’s going to listen to Classical Music on AM? That’s like watching AVATAR on 16 mm.

Morning Zoos are not funny. PARKS & RECREATION did a great bit a couple of weeks ago lampooning your typical Morning Zoo. Two obnoxious idiots doing four hours of fart jokes every day. That kid in high school who mimicked the girl with epilepsy was funnier.

Best syndicated all-night show: Red Eye Radio with Doug McIntyre. Hopefully he’s in your market. The man can talk on any subject. He’s a cross between a 5-time JEOPARDY champion and Jean Shepherd.  Especially knowledgeable in history, jazz, and SHE'S THE SHERIFF. 

What’s the big complaint people have about terrestrial radio? That they play too many commercials. So why do most stations continue to program 18 minutes of them? That’s suicide. Why not limit your spot load to 12 minutes and just charge more? It always kills me that music stations spend so much time on research and so much money on promotions and then just chase away their audience with a relentless bombardment of commercials.

Several years ago the geniuses who ran radio stations determined that the “Oldies” format was dead. Now that People Meters are used to determine ratings and not unreliable diaries, it turns out that “Oldies” is the most popular format of all. It’s that kind of thinking that has led us to Crystal Pepsi, rabbit Jerky, four-track tapes, and Budweiser’s tomato and clam juice beer -- the Chelada.

Oh, and while we’re on the subject of radio visionaries, can we finally admit that HD Radio was a fucking bust? That was supposed to be the savior. Do you know one person who has an HD radio? Have you ever even seen an HD radio?   It's right up there with Betamax and the CBS Color Wheel.

Wanna know the future? It’s not satellite. Satellite’s contribution is making Howard Stern a billionaire. And I bet with all his money, even he isn’t shelling out $14.95 a month to hear the same songs he’s got programmed on his Pandora station.

When consumers are able to easily access internet radio in their cars, then the station you run out off an old Dell computer in your closet will be just as valuable as that terrestrial station that Clear Channel paid $30,000,000 for. More valuable because you won’t play18 God awful minutes of commercials.

Speaking of internet radio – I don’t know whether to plug this or disavow any knowledge – but Great Big Radio tomorrow night will be playing an hour recording of me as Beaver Cleaver on B100 San Diego from 1976. It’s a wonder I wasn’t led off in a straightjacket after this show. It airs at 11:00 PM EDT and then again at 11:00 PM PDT.

And I can’t plug internet oldies without a shout-out to Richbroradio.com.  Imagine hearing a Roy Orbison song that isn’t Pretty Woman.

Baseball season begins tonight. Baseball is a sport that’s best described on radio. A good announcer can transport you to a different world. Television assaults you with “whooshes!”, replays, and close ups of coaches spitting tobacco. There are many excellent hometown team baseball announcers. May I recommend a few? Vin Scully of the Dodgers, Jon Miller of the Giants, Howie Rose of the Mets, Marty Brennaman of the Reds, Eric Nadel of the Rangers, Ted Leitner of the Padres, Bob Uecker of the Brewers, Dave & Andy of the Rays, and my excellent broadcast partner – Rick Rizzs of the Mariners.

A rising talk radio star: John Phillips on KABC Los Angeles.

Every radio market has a KISS-FM. Every one, at this exact moment, is playing the same Lady Gaga song.

In his never-ending quest to be Ryan Seacrest, Carson Daly now also has a morning radio show. Wouldn’t it be great if Ryan ever comes out and Carson has to break it to Siri Pinter that he now likes guys?

Glenn Beck’s radio ratings are plummeting. There is a God! May he suffer the same fate as the JACK format.

And finally, a blast from the past: This is classic DICK VAN DYKE SHOW featuring radio. Rob Petrie is a small town disc jockey looking to set a world record as the D.J. who stays awake on the air the longest. Hilarity and brilliant physical comedy ensues. 

Urumi Censored with 'U certificate

Internationally acclaimed cinematographer Santosh Sivan's latest film Urumi, is one of the most eagerly awaited Malayalam films. He is also making the Tamil, Hindi and English versions.

[ Genelia in the multi-lingual periodic flick URUMI ]

Nature is his guru and he considers himself a life-long student of history. And with his latest offering, 'Urumi' a mega-budget costume drama to be released in four languages, acclaimed cinematographer and filmmaker Santosh Sivan is combining both.

The film, produced by Shaji Nadesan, has Prithviraj, Prabhu Deva, Arya, Genelia, Nithya Menen , Jagathi Sreekumar in the lead and special appearances by Vidya Balan and Tabu.

Urumi - the movie captures the emotions of people of 15th century Kerala. Kelu Nayanar (Prithviraj) is the central character, who takes on the might of Vasco De Gama.

The censor board officials have not only cleared the film with a clean 'U' certificate without any cuts, but also appreciated the multi-lingual film.

"When I am making a film I am not thinking of money or fame, I am a very non-ambitious filmmaker that way. I want to make films about subjects that move me and I am fascinated by history. 'Urumi' is an attempt to take a second look at the glorified story of Vasco Da Gama," the four-time National Award winning Sivan said in an interview.

Sify says in its review: Santosh Sivan's Urumi is a miniature masterpiece of moods, emotions, anxieties ruled by a thirst for revenge. The film unfolds like a ballad and is a sweet and simple fairy tale.

Radiation slows Japan's recovery of dead near troubled nuclear plant

Japanese engineers are struggling to gain control of the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant, 240 km (150 miles) north of Tokyo, which was seriously damaged by a March 11 earthquake and tsunami.

Rescue team in Japan Tsunami affected area

Pressure is mounting on Japan to expand the evacuation zone around the Fukushima Daiichi power plant, as the prime minister says he plans to review the country's nuclear energy policy.

Japanese officials on Thursday (31-Mar-2011) reported the highest levels of radiation yet recorded in the ocean near a crippled nuclear plant.

In the shadow of Japan's struggle to stem radioactive leaks from its stricken nuclear complex, police in white moon suits pull bodies of tsunami victims from an evacuated zone in halting work interrupted by radiation alarms.

Simran and the Aappa Kadai in her name

[ Indian actress Simran in pic ]

Simran’s Aappa Kadai at Vadapalani is lit up with easy-on-theeyes light, soothing Bollywood music playing in the background.

Naina Mohamed, service manager, explained the history of Simran’s Aappa Kadai. Contrary to popular belief, the restaurant is not named after the Kollywood actress Simran, though she inaugurated it. It is named after the daughter of the restaurant’s owner, Arul Raj.

Simran’s Aappa Kadai also has three chains of restaurants running in Dubai. The one at Vadapalani is the first in India, and more such outlets are expected in the city.

what’s Simran’s Aappa Kadai is famous for and has made a name for itself in Dubai — the aappam. The aappams were being prepared in an open kitchen, where guests can watch the preparations.

Aappams of all mode and variety with interesting names were available.

News Source: Express Buzz

Kate Winslet: I hate myself onscreen

Hollywood filmstar Kate Winslet is passionate about her acting but hates watching herself on the screen. The 35-year-old actress says she “squirms” when she watches herself on screen.

"I always wanted to be an actress for as long as I can remember, and I'm incredibly fortunate that my career has turned out the way it has. I watch my films once, and that's it. The experience of making a movie is far removed from watching the end result. It's exciting, but it still makes me squirm," said the Titanic star.

Kate, who won an Oscar for her role in The Reader (2009), previously took a break from work since was not feeling productive. “I just waited until the dust had settled. In the last few years I’ve allowed myself to acknowledge the fact that I do really need my job. And so, not only did I feel good and ready, I felt good and ready to be destroyed by a role again,” she said.

Ice on Mercury? NASA gets first close-up look at Mercury

MERCURY, the small, hot, innermost planet with an odd sense of time, is about to give up its secrets. A NASA spacecraft now circling Mercury is set to tackle some big mysteries of the scorched, tiny world – including whether or not water ice lurks in its shadowy craters.

In a historic moment for NASA, the MESSENGER spacecraft has delivered the first pictures ever taken from orbit around the planet Mercury. The Messenger spacecraft will capture some 1500 images from the planet Mercury in just three days, as the spacecraft gets down to work as the first probe to ever orbit the planet, NASA said Wednesday (30-Mar-2011).

The Messenger spacecraft, which entered orbit around Mercury on March 17, sent its first images of the hot planet's surface back to Earth early Tuesday. Interestingly MESSENGER stands for MErcury Surface, Space ENvironment, GEochemistry and Ranging.

NASA released the first picture taken of Mercury's surface by the US space agency's orbiting Messenger craft. "Early this morning, at 5:20 am EDT (0920 GMT), Messenger captured this historic image of Mercury," NASA said.

NEW DONAEO! 'Check My Swagga Out'

DONAEOOOO! DONAEOOOO! AH? Yeah you know the rest.

Yes, the funky king is back with more fresh tunes to spice up our playlists. This is his newest track 'Check My Swagga Out' which is due for release on May 30th taken from new album Indigo Child.

Its definitely different from Party Hard, African Warrior and I but thats what we love about Donaeo. He isn't afraid to change it up but still knows how to keep it dancefloor worthy.

Check it out....(definitely one for the summer playlist!)

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Eating fish protects your eyesight

There is good news for women suffering from age-related macular degeneration. A study to be published in the June issue of Archives of Ophthalmology analyzed the effect of regular fish consumption on the development of age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

Regular consumption of fish and omega-3 fatty acids found in fish is associated with a significantly reduced risk of developing age-related macular degeneration (AMD) in women.

This latest evidence of a protective link between fish oil and eye health mirrors past research that has found the same benefit. Though the above findings are the strongest evidence to date that omega-3 fatty acids protect against the onset of AMD, further research is needed to define the mechanism.

Mariah Carey's "miracle" pregnancy

Thank God for the internet! Otherwise, how could we keep up with the minute to minute updates on Mariah Carey’s pregnancy?   Can I ask a question?

Who the fuck cares?!

I can’t open a news page without some new screaming headline regarding Mariah Carey’s motherly way. She’s having contractions! EXTRA EXTRA! She’s been admitted to the hospital! BULLETIN! She’s not having contractions! OH NO!! She’s been released from the hospital.

Currently we’re at that stage where expert analysts discuss the difference between contractions and indigestion.

There are a million photos of Mariah’s extended belly. Some even taken during her pregnancy.

We know they will be twins, one boy and one girl. I’m sure her sonograms can be found on line. I would not be surprised if there was a webcam inserted right up the delivery canal. And maybe Mary Hart.

What’s the big deal? If Charlie Sheen were pregnant I wouldn’t expect this much coverage. This isn’t the holy Madonna, this isn’t even the trashy Madonna. There’s no “first” here.  Women have been delivering children the exact same way long before "Dream Lover" ever became a hit. 


Obviously, a lot of people do care. Otherwise, Mariah wouldn’t get this amount of attention. I just don’t know who those people are, or why? Mariah tries to downplay it. She’s not looking for publicity she claims. And then she goes and body paints her stomach – an obvious ploy for attention.

I wish her, her family, and her new babies all the good health and happiness in the world. It’s just that, when it comes to Mariah Carey’s reproduction endeavors, my curiosity and need to watch does not extend all the way till the blessed birth of her twins. It ends one second after conception.

Don't interfere in my life - Ranbir

Seems like Ranbir Kapoor has finally had enough of his Casanova days. After incessant link ups to his co-stars and public attention to his private life, Ranbir's parents are not amused and Ranbir has decided to call it quits, at least for a while.

After too many link ups and unending media speculations about him and his Rockstar co-star Nargis Fakhri and at times even Anushka Sharma, the handsome hunk Ranbir said: "I've had enough. I just want to withdraw from the limelight completely for some time."

Ranbir Kapoor is annoyed at the fact that people are unnecessarily interfering in his personal life. He is tired of his reputation as a 'ladies man' and is firing back at reports claiming he is always hanging out with a new lady.

Mozilla Releases Firefox 4 for Android

A week after the launch of its desktop cousin, Mozilla has launched the full version of Firefox 4 for Android and Maemo. The mobile version of the browser possesses many features of its desktop counterpart and is available in more than 10 languages.

For Android devotees, Mozilla's issuance of Firefox for Android has been a long wait. A week after it launched Firefox 4 for the desktop, Mozilla has just shipped the final version of Firefox 4 for Android.

Mozilla has promised that the new browser is up to three times faster than the stock Android browser. But some users quickly complained about slow performance and the browser's lack of Flash support.

Firefox 4 is a free 14MB download from the Android Market, and requires Android 2.0 or later.

Rana and Shriya are good friends

For the last couple of months, a rumor has been making rounds in the Tollywood circles, that Rana and Shriya are madly in love with each other. They were said to be spotted together in Hyderabad and on a holiday in Goa. Shriya denied the rumors.

Shriya Saran attending an event

Rana Dagubatti, who forays into Hindi cinema with 'Dum Maaro Dum', has been more in the news for his alleged affairs with Bipasha Basu and the constant speculation about the relationship he shares with actress Shreya Saran. The actor has squashed rumours of a relationship with co-star Bipasha Basu.

"Shriya has known me since I was in college. We have known each other for eight years now and all other gossips are false. Don't know where the rumour keeps creeping from" he reported on his twitter posts.

He said in an interview, "I've no romantic inclination with either of the girls I'm being linked with. They are beautiful human beings, and good friends. But that's all. I am so neck deep in work, that I really have little time for anything else."

Denying reports that she is dating Rana Daggubati, Shriya says that it is just rumors. Bagging an international project opposite Siddharth, the actress has recently cleared the confusion about her link-up gossips.

"I met Rana when he was a student. I cherish friendly relationship with his family for eight years. I like them so much and they do respect me a lot. Except for friendship, there is nothing between me and Rana," she said.


Shriya further clarified that at present she is concentrating on Midnight`s Children, the film under the direction of Deepa Mehta..

Shocking truth about Twitter and its content

A few years ago, the social networking site Twitter was virtually unheard of. However, it then started becoming very popular with the rich and famous, prompting a massive surge in users from the general population. Or was it the other way round?

: Indian actress Priyanka Chopra with Twitter team :

The rise of social media has turned it into a source of basic news for many people; even Twitter's character limit allows for a brief description of a newsworthy event, along with a link to more details. However, the ease of creating and sharing information through social networks has also raised concerns about how easily they can be used to spread misinformation, either accidentally or with intent.

Cornell University and Yahoo! Research have released a ten-page research report that offers insight into how content is being created, consumed, and shared by different groups of users on Twitter. Who says what to whom on Twitter? That's the subject — and the title — of the just-released report from Yahoo Research.

One of the most disruptive aspects of Twitter as a communications medium is that it allows anyone to instantly publish and distribute information to potentially thousands or even millions of people. There may be over one billion tweets generated on Twitter weekly. Researchers studying the origin of tweets have discovered that over half stem from the hyperactive tweeting of a tiny minority.

The study has found that only 20000 people are pretty much responsible for half of all tweets on Twitter. How many of those people actually make up Twitter's user base? Less than one percent..

COVER - Miguel - 'Hold It Against Me' (Britney Cover)

You've already seen Taio Cruz's cover of Britney Spears's latest track http://buzzinunlimited.blogspot.com/2011/02/hold-it-against-me-cover.html  but the next star to step into her sparkly heels (not literally, that would be weird) is R&B singer Miguel. 

Personally I prefer Taio's cover but this is just as good. Plus, check out his sunglasses. Very cool.

:)

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Dancing with the Stars

With Kirstie Alley competing on DANCING WITH THE STARS, I had to revisit the show. First off, she’s way better than John Ratzenberger.

Here are my other thoughts:

Elizabeth Taylor was a STAR. I wouldn’t qualify a wrestler, football player, DJ, swimsuit model, talk show host, Disney Channel actress, rapper, ex-boxer, Karate Kid, diet spokesperson, and sex tape exhibitionist as a “star”. The show’s real title should be DANCING WITH THE FAMOUS FOR SOMETHING AT ONE TIME PEOPLE.

To me the only legitimate “star” of the show is the person whose name you hear every week but ignore – Harold Wheeler, the music director. Forget the dancing; listen to the songs and their arrangements. They’re always great.

I still feel DANCING WITH THE STARS is just AMERICAN IDOL with feet. The host is a little smirkier, the judges more goofy, but it’s the same format. They perform, the judges prattle, you vote.

As a viewer, I couldn’t possibly begin to critique any of the actual dancing. Twyla Tharp could coach me from now until the Messiah comes and I couldn’t do a three-minute jive number. So my hat’s off to all the performers on DWTFFSAOTP.

But I do like some better than others. Viewers are surprised by how good Kirstie Alley is. I’m not. Having worked with her for years I was well aware with how graceful she is. George Lopez, maybe the unfunniest human being in the galaxy, recently called her a Dancing Pig. In addition to it not being true, there’s nothing remotely clever about it. “What’s a good metaphor for being fat that no one’s ever used before? I know. A pig.” How does this man have a career?

Note to Disney Channel stalwart Chelsea Kane: An “out-of-the-box” dance means different, not dressing like a mime. Still, I liked her better than the judges did.

I also gave Sugar Ray Leonard higher marks than the panel of poodles. The look on his face as they were panning him was priceless. Big smile but his eyes were clearly saying, “I could beat the living shit out of you and stick those number fans so far up your ass you could open your mouth and the 6 would appear.”

Let’s just skip Wendy Williams because the second I see her on the screen or hear her voice I hit fast forward.

The big galut wrestler, Chris Jericho won me over – not so much for his dancing but for his sense of humor. Asking fop judge Len if his testicles were okay was certainly a highlight of the night.

Romeo is a sensational hoofer. And all the scenes of him rehearsing shirtless should get him many Tallulah Morehead votes.

Ralph Macchio not only can dance, he has now officially replaced Dick Clark as America’s Oldest Teenager.

Pittsburgh Steeler, Hines Ward was also impressive. Light on his feet and graceful. Judge Bruno almost threw his house key onto the stage. 

I love how the judges told Petra Nemcova she was at a disadvantage doing the Jive because her legs were so long. Poor Petra. Some people just don’t get any breaks when it comes to the gene pool. “I…am…not…an…animal!”?

Backstage Brooke Burke is quite the penetrating interviewer. After the DJ, who I had never heard of but must be associated with Dr. Drew because he was in the audience (either that or Dr. Drew was just recruiting for CELEBRITY REHAB), received horrible grades from the judges, Brooke asked him, “Were you hoping for a better score?” No. Of course not. I was hoping to suck on national television. I think Brooke is ready to host the Oscar Red Carpet show with Sam Rubin.

And finally, we get to Kendra Wilkinson, whose last screen appearance was giving a blowjob on numerous porn sites. She almost had a meltdown because her dance required her to act like “a lady” this week. The pressure of that drove her literally to tears.  She's finding it very hard to dance since she can't keep her legs in the air. 

My last thought: the women professional dancers always look so much hotter during the casual rehearsal scenes. Natural and beautiful. Then for the show they get overly made-up and all look like David Bowie.

DWTFFSAOTP does have its moments. And I’m rooting for Kirstie Alley. Next year I hope they get George Lopez to be a contestant. Let’s see how well he glides across the dance floor. And I’m sure Kirstie won’t stoop to his level by calling him a “clumsy cow”.

Toddla T Ft Shola Ama - Take It Back

WOO-ZA!

This is what I call FRESH music.

This is the latest from DJ/Producer Toddla T featuring Shola Ama. It's definitely something new and exciting for the summer barbecue playlist ladies and gentlemen! 

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British Talent! - Jay Norton..

Now this beautiful. It reminds you of those days where your walking through a park on a sunny day and forget about everything bad in the world (until you step in a pile of dog crap!) 

Anywho!

This is my latest discovery, British singer Jay Norton who is sure to be making massive music movements (lovely bit of alliteration right there!) in 2011.

Here's two of my favourite songs of his at the moment, Forever and About You.

Check him out :)

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Indian navy seizes Somali pirates

India's navy has seized 16 Somali pirates after a three-hour-long battle in the Arabian Sea, a spokesman said. The navy also rescued 16 crew members of a hijacked Iranian ship west of the Lakshadweep islands.

An official press release on Sunday (27-Mar-2011) said the recent operation indicates the firm and resolute action taken by the Navy and the Coast Guard and demonstrates the nation's determination to strengthen safety of merchant shipping in the international sea lanes in the Arabian Sea. Proactive action being taken by the Navy has been lauded by the International Maritime Bureau, the release claims.

The officials rescued 16 fishermen — 12 Iranians and four Pakistanis — from the pirates.

Razing Arizona -- my week in the desert

Back from a week in Arizona for spring training where I made my broadcasting debut for the Mariners. Came fully prepared. Scouting reports, team media guides, citizenship papers in case I got too tan. If you can get past Arizona’s blatant racial profiling and shooting rampages, it really is lovely in the spring.

Phoenix airport car renters beware: Allow yourself and entire extra day. The rental car agencies used to be located right next to the terminal. Now they’ve moved to the only-slightly-less-convenient Arizona-New Mexico border.

Prior to my stay the skies had been clear and temperatures up into the 80s. I arrived just in time for ferocious winds, a huge rainstorm, and temps in the 50s. My baseball prep on Monday consisted of seeing LIMITLESS.

Stayed in Peoria, near the Mariners’ complex. When the M’s first opened their state-of-the-art facility in the early ‘90s there was nothing out there but tumbleweeds. Now there’s Hooters, homes, and Home Depots as far as the eye can see. The Seattle Mariners are the pied pipers of commercial development.

Did my first game at the new complex shared by the Arizona Diamondbacks and Colorado Rockies in Scottsdale. Salt River Fields at Talking Stick. It’s on an Indian reservation adjacent to a large casino. So fans can see current major league players and Pete Rose.

The Diamondbacks should play regular season games there in April. It’s far nicer than that airplane hanger they play in normally. Sure, it only seats 11,000 but how many people do they get for the Pittsburgh Pirates anyway?

The second you cross into Scottsdale from anywhere in Phoenix it becomes green. Not hard to figure out where the money is. And water.

This is all you need to know about Arizona: From the Arizona Republic on Friday -- Measures to allow firearms in public buildings as well as on public roads and sidewalks around college campuses advanced to the Legislature Thursday. This, I’m sure, is to accommodate big game hunters because you never know when you might encounter a deer in a post office or student union.

Everything in this town is a franchise. I wouldn’t be surprised if Phoenix is really just a branch of Albuquerque set in the desert.

But that’s not to say tradition isn’t important. Had breakfast one morning at the Corner Bakery. It proudly proclaims: Established 2009.

Last weekend was the annual Phoenix BBQ Festival. Why not hold it in August? You wouldn’t even have to light up the grills.

Lady Gaga was in town. Or was that Chief Wahoo, the Cleveland Indians’ mascot?

Billboards all over town offered cremations for $586.25. What’s the twenty-five cents for? Matches?

And a 99 Cent store in Peoria was going out of business. Prices slashed! With the pennies you save you can now afford that cremation!

Saturday was the best and worst day for me. First off, my rental car wouldn’t unlock. I had a Mariners game to announce so needed to get to the Brewers’ park in Maryvale, which, like everything else in Phoenix, is 13.2 miles away. My friend Howard, who was in town on vacation, offered to give me a lift. But he was delayed due to some police activity that diverted him five miles in the wrong direction. I got to the park only to learn that my rental car wouldn’t start because I was trying to open the wrong car. Yes, I’m an idiot.

But it was also the best day because Bob Uecker was in the park. Bob Uecker has many titles. “The Voice of the Brewers”, “Mr. Baseball”, “Former star of MR. BELVEDERE and MAJOR LEAGUE”, “National Treasure”. For all the brilliant comedy writers I’ve known through the years, Bob is funnier than 99% of them. Last year Bob underwent three major surgeries. Some of the complications, he admitted, were because he performed them himself. So it was a joy to see him back, spry and as hilarious as ever.

Like anyone who goes to Arizona, I went to a Phoenix Coyotes NHL hockey game. They play in the ridiculously named Jobing.com arena. Nice venue but of course, freezing due to the ice rink. Apparently the team is not doing well and there is fear it may relocate. I know how to keep them in the desert forever. Hold their home games in the summer.

The Delta terminal at SkyHarbor airport was surprisingly empty for the last Sunday night of spring training. Guns are not allowed of course, and it was really a shame because a herd of antelope was roaming the newsstand.

The Delta plane was a CRJ700. Imagine being in an MRI tube for an hour.

Thanks to everyone for a great week. All Mariners travelogues this year are dedicated to the memory of Dave Niehaus – the Elizabeth Taylor of broadcasters.

Note:  My book of previous travelogues, WHERE THE HELL AM I?  TRIPS I HAVE SURVIVED is available for Kindle users, Nook-nicks, other ebook formats, and in glorious paperbackt.  Yes, I know it's shameless but it's not like they're letting me on THE TODAY SHOW to plug the damn thing. 

NEW ARTIST! - Willis Rose...

Oh Youtube does bring me little joys and gems that enlighten my music collection.

My latest discovery is unsigned singer/songwriter Willis Rose from Nottingham. He first caught my attention with his soulful R&B track 'Erase You' which could easily be the soundtrack to any messy break-up. And plus, he has an AFRO! Not that that affects his music, I just think it's cool.

I'm pretty sure this guy will be being more music joys in the future. 

Check him out :) 

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Actor Vijay to support AIADMK

After famous Kollywood actors Vijayakanth and Sarathkumar, AIADMK on Sunday (26-Mar-2011) ensured the support of one more top Tamil filmstar Vijay for its alliance in the upcoming assembly elections.

S.A. Chandrasekar, noted film director and father of actor Vijay, met AIADMK General Secretary Jayalalithaa at Sangam Hotel on 27th March 2011 and informed her about the decision.

Later Mr. SAC told the media that the 'Ilaya Thalapathy Vijay Makkal Iyakkam,' a fan's movement in his son's name, favoured a political change in the State for its overall development and for the wellbeing of all sections of the society. The Iyakkam is of the firm view that political change is the need of the hour, taking into consideration the happenings in various fronts.

Should Illaya Thalapathi Vijay enter politics or not? This seems to have become the favourite topic of discussion amongst everyone in Kollywood.

Vijay had made his political intentions clear when he staged a protest at Nagapattinam recently against the killing of Indian fishermen allegedly by Sri Lankan Navy.

When asked whether Vijay will also campaign for the AIADMK front, the director replied that it was for the actor to decide.

Now, it's not news that Vijay's fan following is at its peak. The actor is on a career high with some awe-inspiring offers up his sleeve.

While many would argue that this is not the right time for him to leave a booming film career for politics, it cannot be ignored that Vijay can achieve his political goals too with the help for the huge popularity.

It will be in interesting to see that with the ever growing pressure, what decision Vijay takes.

NEW! - Rudimental ft MC Shantie - Deep In The Valley

Oh YES ladies and gentlemen, its time to get your hands up and start skanking.

Ok so I don't really speak like that but this track right here makes me want to do just that! This is latest from Rudimental who in case you don't know, are a collective of 4 producers and DJs from Eaaasssssttt LANDAN!

 As soon as you press play prepare to add this raving tune to your summer barbecue playlist (I better be invited!) and start skanking in rabbit suits? Well that's what the video does..anywho!

'Deep in the underground, deep in the valley' Start skanking peeps.

FIR against Facebook

Facebook's long list of controversial groups just got an Indian update. Social activist Nutan Thakur filed an FIR against the social networking site and its users under Section 66A of the Information Technology Act 2000, in Meerut on 28th March 2011.

- The controversial FB profile -

In the complainant’s words: "Several groups are formed by users on Facebook and one of them uses abusive language against Hindu gods and goddesses. On this site, open abuses and dirty words are used against many revered Hindu Gods and Goddesses and followers of Hindu religion."

The group being referred to bears the above image on its Facebook page, depicting three prominent deities as the main characters in the film ‘3 Idiots.’ The group’s page is apparently one of many such pages on Facebook, slandering either Islam or Hinduism.

Previously, Facebook were asked to shut down groups that promoted child pornography, paedophilia, genocide and racism. Facebook watchdogs have included British Prime Minister David Cameron, who lobbied for a tribute page to Northumberland killer Raoul Moat to be deleted.

Last month, Nutan Thakur along with her IPS husband, Amitabh Thakur, had lodged complaint in Gomtinagar police station of Lucknow against a Faceboook group calling itself "we hate Gandhi". Subsequently, Facebook blocked the profile.

Yahoo challenges Google with instant search

In an effort to keep pace with its competitors, Yahoo announced on Wednesday a new search function called Direct Search. The feature acts similar to Google's Instant tool, predicting what users are searching for based on the characters entered thus far.

This is probably Yahoo's answer to a similar Google Inc. feature called Instant Search. Both start making suggestions with the first keystroke, and Google and Yahoo both suggest a list of possible search terms that changes as people type.

But while Google immediately populates a search results page with blue links, Yahoo displays a box with instant information and answers for some types of searches at search.yahoo.com.

For example, start typing "Berlin." By the time you get to "berl," Yahoo has put together an information box with the current local time, things to do in the city, links to pages about hotels, restaurants and flights, a photo of a city landmark and a small map.

Well, it pretty much is like Google's Instant Search. But Yahoo says it's different. It's based on answers, not on links.

"They're very different products. We're focused on providing answers, not links. Google Instant is focused on providing more links, faster. Not answers," Yahoo said.

Rajinikanth's Rana clarifications by KSR

Right from the day superstar Rajinikanth's film, 'Rana', was announced, rumours began to flood Kollywood — especially about the female cast of the high budgeted film.

Finally, producer Soundarya Rajinikanth and director KS Ravikumar were forced to hold a press conference, to make clarifications about their Rana.

Daily rumours were making the rounds about Rekha demanding Rs 4 Crore, Vidya Balan, Madhuri Dixit and so many others approached for the film.

"I know 'Rana' is a big film. But I never thought that it would give rise to such unfounded allegations. I never spoke to Rekha. Nor did we confirm Vidya Balan. Yes, we spoke to Vidya, but still everything is in discussion stage, and nothing has been finalized yet. Similar is the case with Sonu Sood and Ileana," explained KS Ravikumar.

The director also denied the rumours that Asin’s request to act in the movie was refused. "As Rajini plays three roles in the movie, we need three heroines. We’ve conformed Deepika Padukone and we may start shooting with her in mid-April. The rest are still in discussion," he added.

Set in the 17th century, 'Rana' requires a huge star cast. "It would take at least a year to complete the shoot. So many heroes have been asking me to include them in a few scenes but nothing has been conformed yet," he said.

Rana is a big budget multi-lingual movie that will cost Rs. 100 Crore plus. The film is produced by Eros International, AR Rahman is the music director with Ratnavel as the cameraman.

“Graphics would be vital in this film,” says Soundarya, younger daughter of Superstar Rajini Kanth, who is  technical director of this film.

British Talent! - Eden!

Now this is just what you need on a sunny day like this (YES ITS SUNNY!) a massive dose of British Talent. This is my latest discovery, London singer/songwriter who goes by the name of Eden.

She's worked with UK superstars such as N Dubz, Lioness, Wiley, Chipmunk, Ghetts, G Frsh and the list continues....I'm thinking there's going to be much more exciting music coming from this artist very soon.

Check her out!

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How to REALLY knock off the Bellagio

OCEAN'S ELEVEN-type movies have done great at the boxoffice.  Even OCEAN'S THIRTEEN made money and that was awful.  Audiences love glitzy caper movies even if the capers are completely ridiculous. A couple of years ago my writing partner David and I wrote a pilot for Fox called ODDS about an all-night diner just off the Vegas strip that catered exclusively to the locals. One of our running bits was that they were always cooking up schemes to knock off the Bellagio themselves. Here’s an example. And no, the pilot didn’t get made, and yes, it should have. You're welcome to try any of these capers. Let me know how it goes.

INT. DINER AT THE COUNTER, TARA (A BRITTNEY SPEARS IMPERSONATOR), DAVE (A BLACKJACK DEALER WHO ALSO MARRIES COUPLES) AND JEFF (A BAD COMIC) ARE IN MID-CONVERSATION.

JEFF
Y’know, I was on stage tonight and it hit me how we could knock over the Bellagio. We break into the surveillance system, then send subliminal messages to the guards. We hypnotize them. And here’s the genius of it – the GUARDS then take out the money. We wait at the side entrance in a Brinks truck and then off we go.

DAVE
So you need an electronics expert to break into the system, a Brinks truck and a hypnotist?

JEFF
There’s one at the Stardust who’s great. He can get people down to their underwear.

DAVE
What about when they’re not drunk?

JEFF
Oooh, problem.

TARA
Come on, you gotta get real. Here’s what we do: We get an impersonator to pose as a rich Arab Sheik. He lands in a helicopter on the roof of the hotel. They put him up in the Presidential suite. We have somebody go through the ventilation system with sleeping gas, knock everybody out. Then we bring the money up and hide it in the room. While everybody’s running around town looking for it, we just check out, carry it into the helicopter and away we go.

DAVE
Where we gonna get a helicopter?

TARA
Maybe we can just talk a pilot into doing us a favor.

DAVE
Or…you hypnotize him.

ROSIE (AN AFRO BORN AGAIN WAITRESS-BOXER WANNA BE) HAS OVERHEARD.

ROSIE
Every night I listen to these nitwit schemes. As if getting all that money would actually make you happy.

TARA
You’ve taken a few blows to the head, haven’t you, Rosie?

ROSIE
I’m just saying, there are more meaningful ways of finding satisfaction and happiness in this world.

DAVE
Let me guess. Jesus?

ROSIE
Yes, “minister”. Jesus.

DAVE
(indignant) Hey, don’t use that tone. I’m licensed.

ROSIE
You need to believe in something that’s bigger and more powerful than you that will show you the path to the true meaning of life.

DAV
You say “Jesus”. I say “The Bellagio”.