(Image source: Free Info Society)

BY LAUREN ZIMA

Did Chicago serial killer John Wayne Gacy have an accomplice? Two lawyers have brought a new theory to Cook County police.

Gacy was executed back in 1994 -- convicted of 33 murders. He hid dozens of bodies of young men and boys in the crawl space of his home.

The idea of an accomplice for Gacy isn’t entirely new -- The Chicago Sun Times reports in 1978, when the killer was arrested, he said he had “associates”. But now, the Sun Times reports …

“Criminal defense attorneys Robert Stephenson and Steven Becker recently examined Gacy’s work and travel records and suspect he was out of town when victims Russell Nelson and Robert Gilroy disappeared in 1977. … Stephenson and Becker also provided … names of several possible accomplices of Gacy.”

WGN reports the lawyers have evidence that after Nelson disappeared, a man claiming to be his friend called Nelson’s family and demanded money. Nelson’s brothers went to Chicago, met the friend, and …

“The friend offered Russell’s brothers a job with John Wayne Gacy.”

The lawyers haven’t named the friend publicly but say he is still alive. They also point to a victim of Gacy’s who survived, and said there were two men present when he was being tortured. That man has since died. WBBM looks at an old interview with Gacy, where he again hints others were involved. The station also spoke with Cook County Sheriff Tom Dart.

“Buckovich is not one that I killed so I know nothing about it.”
“There’s a couple new little twists that we’ll look into.”

But the man who was Gacy’s defense attorney told WGN he didn’t think Gacy had accomplices. As a recent MSNBC report shows -- many questions remain unanswered, like whether Gacy was also killing people while traveling for work.

Even before being brought this new theory, Dart had still been investigating the Gacy case.

“At the time there were no computers or missing people databases, tools investigators have now used to possible link Gacy to 27 unsolved cases around the country.”

Several of Gacy’s victims remain unidentified. Investigators hope DNA evidence will help with that. The lawyers got involved in the case when a woman contacted them, believing her son was one of those victims.

(Image Source: ScenicTrace)

BY JUSTIN PROCHASKA

You're watching multisource global video news analysis from Newsy. 

All you need is...waffles?  Some Waffle House locations are offering a cheap dining alternative this Valentine’s Day. Georgia’s WALB reports.

“It will have tablecloths. It will have alcohol-free champagne. The lighting will be dimmer. It will be cloth napkins instead of paper. The atmosphere will be more of a five-star sit down and less fast-production Waffle House.”

Don’t expect to just eat biscuits and gravy and other breakfast fare. Waffle House is opening up a whole new menu for the night.

“Though waffles will still be available, they will also offers a special menu with things such as ribeye and eggs, pork chop dinners and T-bone dinners.”

But is it tacky to take your sweetheart to Waffle House on the most romantic night of the year?

A blogger from the Tulsa World says, no, offering up a few reasons why.

“1. Waffle House could be a reasonable alternative to more expensive places that many folks can't afford. 2. The novelty of it, for those who live a little off the grid.”

But, WXIN in Indianapolis says taking a date to Waffle House could put you in a sticky situation.

“Make sure you’ve got a ring on your finger if you’re going to try that stunt. Because if you don’t have some sort of contract, you might be in trouble.”

According to Time Magazine, most participating restaurants are in the South, mostly in Florida, Georgia, Alabama and South Carolina, but some Northern states are participating, too.

(Image source: Wikimedia Commons)

BY NATHAN BYRNE

This is Newsy Now and here are your headlines.

Pop icon Whitney Houston was found dead in her Beverly Hills hotel room late Saturday afternoon. No cause of death has been released, but Houston's body wasmoved to the L.A. County Morgue this morning, where an autopsy will be performed, The Los Angeles Times reports.

CNN covered the social media outpouring this morning.

“...it links you over to an official Facebook, which is getting tens of thousands of posts and they keep increasing. ...Twitter had an incredible number of tweets come through. People weighing in on Whitney Houston here.”

In political news, Mitt Romney takes two. The GOP front-runner grabbed the non-binding caucus in Maine and the endorsement of the Conservative Political Action Conference in Washington, D.C. Saturday. Former vice-presidential candidate and Alaska governor Sarah Palin spoke to end the CPAC event, but didn’t endorse a candidate. Here’s Boston’s WCVB...

PALIN: “Our candidate must be someone who can instinctively turn right to Constitutional conservative principles.”

In Europe, the cold snap continues across parts of the continent. More snow makes it difficult for army police and firefighters to clear routes for delivering food and water, says euronews...

“Europe’s big freeze has deepened. Fresh snowfalls have swept across parts of the continent. The number of deaths has risen. ...‘No leader has come to ask us if we’re still alive,’ says this woman. ‘It’s only today they have sent emergency services to help us.’”

Get ready for Microsoft to potentially crash the tablet party. A writer for CNET says Microsoft could be poised to compete with the iPad.

The writer points to Microsoft Office 15 apps and competitive pricing with Android tablets and iPads as key items.

Stay with Newsy for more news analyses throughout the day. For Newsy Now, I’m Nathan Byrne, highlighting the top headlines, making you smarter, faster.

(Image source: Youtube/alornmage)

BY EMILY SPAIN

A North Carolina father wasn’t pleased when his 15-year-old daughter wrote a long, angry Facebook post about her home life.
So to punish her for it, Tommy Jordan shot multiple bullets through the teen’s laptop.
And -- he recorded the whole thing.

In his daughter’s post she complains about having to do chores around the house. Jordan uploaded his response video on Youtube and posted it on his Facebook page. Here’s a clip of that video -- he titled it “Facebook Parenting: for the troubled teen”.

“I’m going to put a stop to it, and I’m going to put a stop to it right now... This right here in my .45” 

The 8-minute video went viral, getting more than 13 million views and climbing in just three days.
So, were Jordan’s actions justified or just plain crazy? People spouted off on his Facebook page:

One person commented:
“You are one very twisted dude. I hope you get some help with your anger problem before you use that gun on someone, like your daughter.”

And another:
“Anyone who thinks you’re an awful parent is either a teen (no explanation needed there), or a parent who lets their kids walk all over them. I think your vid was effective and reasonable.”

A writer for Yahoo! also strikes down Jordan’s parenting skills, and even suggests therapy.

“I certainly hope this dad is not going to shoot up everything when his child does something wrong. You didn't sweep the floor; let me empty an entire clip into the broom. You didn't feed the dog; I'll just shoot him to prove a point. Using violence is not a form of safe, effective, consistent parenting.”

Others applaud Jordan’s tough love, saying sometimes it takes drastic measures to get kids to pay attention. Mashable reports, social media and the family is a constant conversation.

“The role of social media in family life has been debated since social networks began to catch on, but Jordan appears to be taking a proactive approach.”

Jordan wrote on his Facebook page that he had no idea his video would go viral and doesn’t plan on seeking more stardom.  He even apologized for some of the things he said in the video and gives this piece of advice ...

"Once you put it out there, you can't take it back, so think carefully before you use the Internet to broadcast your thoughts and feelings.”

To read Jordan’s full response click here or to watch the complete video click here.

Transcript by Newsy.

Image source: The New York Times

BY ZACH TOOMBS 

It’s a virtual who’s who of conservative activists — from Mike Huckabee to Ann Coulter to Chuck Norris. And, on Friday, GOP presidential hopefuls made their best attempt to woo those potential supporters at CPAC — the annual Conservative Political Action Conference.

Speaking on his record as Massachusetts’ governor, Mitt Romney grabbed early unwanted headlines with this ad-libbed comment.

“I was a severely conservative Republican governor.”

Rachel Maddow’s mocking reaction mirrored that of many others:

“Mitt Romney: Not just conservative, but severely conservative.”

And from the other end of the spectrum, Rush Limbaugh was left puzzled as well...

“I have never heard anybody say ‘I’m severely conservative.’ ”

Nitpicky? POLITICO says “maybe,” but:

“...by going off-script to use an awkward modifier that no movement conservative would ever affix to themselves, he made clear why, despite vast advantages in money and organization, he’s still struggling to win the trust of a party base needed to secure the GOP presidential nomination. He’s just not a natural fit.”

And while Romney touted his conservative highlight reel, Rick Santorum made the case for hardline right-wing politics — an ideology he says is better fit to beat President Obama in November than John McCain’s relatively middle-of-the-road approach in 2008.

“Well, I think we have learned our lesson. And the lesson we’ve learned is that we will no longer abandon and apologize for the policies and principles that have made this country great for a hollow victory in November.”

Friday was a good day for Santorum: for the first time, a national poll from Public Policy Polling ranked him ahead of Romney. And his speech at CPAC drew nearly unanimous praise in conservative circles.

The Washington Times writes:

“Santorum's address was not a red vs. blue cheerleader pep rally meant to make Republicans feel good about their brand. Instead it was an adult conversation with conservatives about the future of their movement.”

Predictably, it was Gingrich who provided the longest — and, for many, the most volatile — speech among the candidates. The former House Speaker not only took aim at Democrats but he also called out GOP insiders.

“We need to teach the Republican establishment a lesson. We are determined to rebuild America, not to manage its decay."

Gingrich also used the occasion to roll out his new Conservative Dream Team of supporters. A page dedicated to the team appeared on his website Friday, along with this:

A photo of Gingrich and company that The Hill said looked like “an ad for a law firm” — with Rick Perry, Herman Cain and even the Texas Ranger himself filling in as partners.

Another GOP presidential hopeful, Ron Paul, skipped CPAC this year. Instead, the candidate focused on some last-minute campaigning in Maine.

BY NATHAN BYRNE

This is Newsy Now and here are your headlines.

After a week of government attacks on the uprising in Homs, Syria, activists fear for their lives. CNN reports...

“...we have heard from anti-government activists in Syria, who say that if they don’t receive help, the violent government crackdown will end up killing millions.”

In an address to crowds celebrating the anniversary of Iran’s 1979 revolution, President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad promised to make a major nuclear announcement in the next few days.

Al Jazeera reports the Iranian president spoke in front of a full-scale model of the U.S. drone officials claim to have downed in December. He said, quote...

“In the coming days the world will witness Iran's announcement of its very important and very major nuclear achievements.”

After being painted as a moderate by his fellow Republican opponents and losing recent primaries, Mitt Romney gave what MSNBC calls a “fiery speech” to conservative voters...

“I know that this president will never get it, but we conservatives aren’t just proud to cling to our guns and our religion, we are also proud to cling to our Constitution.”

In sports, the NBA’s surprise phenom continued his miracle-working by helping hold off the mighty Los Angeles Lakers last night. The New York Knicks’ Jeremy Lin scored a career-high 38 points in the win. He downplayed the hype in an interview with ESPN...

“This has been a wild week for me and the team. I mean, obviously, you hope for the best and prepare for the worst and I’m just thankful that it’s turning out the way it is.”

Stay with Newsy for more news analyses throughout the day. For Newsy Now, I’m Nathan Byrne, highlighting the top headlines, making you smarter, faster.

(Image Source: KOMO News)

BY ALLIE SPILLYARDS

He was a person of interest in the 2009 disappearance of his wife — he’s accused of murdering his two young son s— and now — he’s making headlines again.

Authorities have revealed incestuous images found on Josh Powell’s computer led to a doctor-ordered psychosexual evaluation... one the media is suggesting was a motivating factor in last week’s murder suicide. (VIDEO SOURCE: MSNBC)

LESTER HOLT: “Those computer images we’re talking about apparently led to this order for Josh to undergo a psychosexual evaluation, and that would’ve included a lie detector test.”
POWELL BOYS’ GRANDFATHER: “I believe he understood there was no way he was going to be able to bluff his way through this.” (VIDEO SOURCE: NBC)

According to ABC’s Colleen Curry and Chris Cuomo, this wasn’t a recent discovery.

“The computer was taken by police following the 2009 disappearance of... Susan Cox, but the images were brought up for the first time publicly in a court custody hearing last week."

Now many in the media are speculating — would this story have ended differently if the images had been revealed sooner? CBS reports...

“Attorney Steve Downing said if he [had] seen them, he might have asked the court to change the terms of Powell's supervised visitation with the boys.”

Powell was allowed bi-weekly supervised visits with his sons even though a judge had denied him custody during a February first hearing. New details have emerged about the final visit. In an exclusive interview, ABC learned...

The social worker responsible for dropping the boys off for Powell’s scheduled visitation says Powell told the boy’s he had a “surprise” for them just minutes before the explosion.

And while the investigation continues, the Examiner reports...

“Washington State Senator Pam Roach (R) said it was ‘outrageous’ that the court granted Josh Powell visitation with his sons and is asking to see what West Valley City Police shared with the Washington agency in charge of child welfare.”

Police are still investigating the disappearance of Susan Powell.

(Image Source: CNN)

BY ALLIE SPILLYARDS

“Stop Colbert!” —That’s the cry that rang out from House minority leader Nancy Pelosi’s office Thursday as she tried her hat at comedy in support of proposed legislation targeting campaign contributions.

“Since the day he started his Super PAC, taking secret money from special interests, he’s been out of control.” (Video Source: YouTube)

CNN’s Dana Bash has the details, calling the stunt against Comedy Central host Stephen Colbert just the latest charade in the “Alice in Wonderland” state of politics.

“The must-watch-it-to-believe it video features the House Democratic leader narrating under black and white pictures of Colbert, saying he ‘used to be my friend. I even signed the poor baby's cast....’ The kicker: with the now infamous picture of Pelosi on the couch with Newt Gingrich, Pelosi says Colbert ‘even used his super PAC to attack my friend Newt Gingrich.’”

Pelosi’s YouTube appearance was a call for Congress to pass the DISCLOSE Act — legislation born out of the Citizen’s United decision that allowed unlimited amounts of money to be given to independent groups supporting political candidates. Although it’s a parody, a writer for the Huffington Post claims Pelosi’s bottom line is the real deal.

“While Pelosi's pitch is satirical — Colbert's super PAC shenanigans are a tongue-in-cheek critique of the negative effects of the Supreme Court's Citizens United ruling and Pelosi hasn't done much to reinforce her claim that Gingrich is, in fact, her ‘friend’ -- she is serious about the legislation.”

All jokes aside, the Washington Post thinks the legislation is a little off track. The writers say super PACs like Colbert’s are already legally required to disclose donors.

“...Pelosi’s charge that super PACs take ‘secret money from special interests’ is somewhat off the mark... The main target of the proposed disclosure requirements included in the original DISCLOSE Act were nonprofits, trade groups and other organizations that are not required to disclose donors ... because politics is not their ‘primary purpose.’”

And although many are waiting for Colbert’s rebuttal, Comedy Central’s Indecision Forever blog already has a response to Pelosi.

“I'm not so sure former Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi wants to be playing with this kind of fire. Or this kind of magic lightning or whatever. Publicly coming out against super PACs has got to be kind of dangerous. But to come out against Stephen Colbert's super PAC? That's got to be like an anti-Colbert Bump times a zillion, right?”

The House passed the original legislation in June 2010, but it failed one month later in the Senate.

(Image Source: BBC)

BY HARUMENDHAH HELMY

ANCHOR JIM FLINK

This is Newsy Now and here are your latest headlines.
 

In Athens — clashes between riot police and protesters have erupted, amid increasing public anger over Greek leaders’ agreement on new austerity measures. The country’s workers could now be facing even further salary and pension cuts. The BBC has more on the clashes.  
 

“Petrol bombs and stones were thrown at security forces. The union began a two-day general strike. The clashes come hours after Europe's finance ministers demanded even deeper cuts for conditions of a second, crucial bailout.”

 

GOP presidential hopefuls Mitt Romney, Rick Santorum and Newt Gingrich are set to speak today at the Conservative Political Action Conference, in D.C. Fox News says — all eyes are on the front-runner and former Massachusetts Governor.
 

“A lot of pressure, a lot of attention on Mitt Romney’s speech. He’s going to follow a surging Rick Santorum today with his speech...”
 

The public is now hearing new dirt on the late Steve Jobs — thanks to the now-public FBI files — but it looks like the stock market’s faith on his legacy is still going strong. Apple stocks reached new highs on Thursday — making the company’s market cap bigger than ever. Here’s WFLD with some Apple tidbits.

“Shares are $7 shy of $500 each. If you combine the market cap of google and microsoft together, apple is bigger than that. And it is bigger than ExxonMobil.”
 

It’s been three years since Chris Brown assaulted then-girlfriend Rihanna — and today, a judge denied Brown’s petition for early dismissal of his five-year probation. The singer is set to perform at the Grammy’s on Sunday. Here’s WAGA.
 

“The judge commented on Brown’s positive attitude throughout his sentence, but would still like to continue supervising the singer. Brown will be making his first Grammy appearance since the 2009 incident...”
 

Stay with Newsy for more news analyses throughout the day. For Newsy Now, I’m Jim Flink, highlighting the top headlines making you smarter, faster.

(Image Source: Detroit Free Press)

BY ANDREW CARTER

ANCHOR CHRISTINA HARTMAN

The NHL’s big game is headed to the big house. NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman announced Thursday morning the 2013 Winter Classic will showcase the Detroit Red Wings and the Toronto Maple Leafs at Michigan Stadium in Ann Arbor. WXYZ reports.

“The biggest game in hockey’s regular season is coming to hockey town west. The NHL’s 2013 Winter Classic is so big it is going to be played at the big house in Ann Arbor. Yeah this is going to be huge you know that.”

The attendance record for a hockey game is 113,411 set at Michigan Stadium in 2010. Yahoo! Sports reports this battle between two original six franchises could surpass that number.

“...Bettman ... predicted the 2013 Winter Classic would be on pace to shatter that record … For anyone wondering if the bloom's off the Winter Classic rose as far as hype and attention from casual viewers, "SEE A WORLD ATTENDANCE RECORD SHATTERED" is a pretty easy sell.

The Winter Classic is an annual event started in 2008. It’s clear fans love it, and ESPN’s Doug Gottleib gives the NHL credit for the idea.

“NFL kind of the end of the season, what do we do? Somebody goes, why don’t we play outside? Yeah where we gonna put them? Put them in a football stadium. You know, Jimmy’s on to something.”

The news of the game is big for the sports world, but Detroit Free Press columnist Drew Sharp explains its impact on the city of Detroit.

“Hosting the next NHL Winter Classic on Jan. 1, 2013, is another opportunity for this city to pop a little optimistic light through the darkness of its economic malaise.”

Aside from the game there is more news for fans. The New York Times reports for one day, alcohol will be served at Michigan Stadium.

“Two temporary changes will be coming to Michigan Stadium for the Winter Classic: alcohol and advertising. Michigan’s campus is dry, meaning a special temporary liquor license will be obtained for the game.”

Hype will be building around this historic match-up as the Red Wings and Maple Leafs rivalry dates back to 1926, and the two teams have combined for 24 Stanley Cups.

(Image Source: Top 10 List 101)

BY MEREDITH BALDWIN

ANCHOR CHRISTINA HARTMAN

People are going bananas over Apple’s rumored iPad 3 possibly coming out this spring. Rumors started flying before Santa’s reindeer and holiday cheer, but soon died down. Then Thursday, AllThingsD reported the iPad3 could be out  -- next month.

 “Apple’s not holding an event in February — strange, unusual or otherwise. But it is holding one in March — to launch its next iPad.”

That has the techie world all worked up. People are already wondering what improvements Apple has up its sleeve. Cult of Mac supposedly got its hands on photos of the new design, and says no major changes will be made to the exterior of the iPad. Instead, it says Apple’s only tinkering with the inside.

 “These images strengthen reports that claim the iPad 3 will boast the same design as its predecessor, but with improved internals. The third-generation device is expected to be an ‘incremental’ upgrade, much like the iPhone 4S is to the iPhone 4, with Apple’s A6 quad-core processor, a Retina display, and a better rear-facing camera.”

Gizmodo agreed, saying Apple shouldn’t change the basic design of the tablet. But it’s also skeptical that anyone knows what changes Apple’s making to the design, other than the company execs themselves.

 “Take all of these with the usual large piles of salt grains. Oh, and remember: The iPad may only be two years old, but it's already such an institution that any radical shifts in design or philosophy are almost definitely out of the question (sorry, 7-inch believers).”

And now we’re left to guess when Apple will show us the newest model. Wired takes a final stab at when that could be.

 “If Apple wanted to get cute, the company could hold its announcement the last day of February, the 29th. Apple iPad announcements are normally on Wednesdays, and as The Verge‘s Joshua Topolsky pointed out on Twitter … that’s the same day Microsoft is planning to release its consumer preview of Windows 8. If the Cupertino company wanted to really stick it to Microsoft, that’d be the day to pick.

And so, we wait.

(Image Source: Wikimedia Commons)

BY BRIAN LEWIS

ANCHOR ANA COMPAIN-ROMERO

The Obama Administration is facing criticism from Democrats as it attempts to craft a compromise between religious freedom and birth control access.

The controversy arose last month after the Department of Health and Human Services issued exemptions allowing churches to opt out of mandated birth control and sterilization coverage in their health plans.

But the exceptions don’t apply to charities, hospitals or universities. That has angered some prominent Catholic Democrats, including former Virginia Governor and current Senate candidate Tim Kaine. The Washington Post quotes Kaine:

“I have definitely expressed my grave concerns to the White House about that. I support the contraception mandate, but there should be a religious-employer exemption that is broader than the one they proposed.”

Former Democratic vice-presidential candidate Joe Lieberman panned the policy via a tweet.

“I am opposed to the Administration’s new requirement that religious org.’s must offer employees contraception benefits.”

U.S News and World Report reports that some Dems have gone even further than those measured responses.

“The language coming from these Democrats— ‘Un-American,’ ‘a violation of conscience rights,’ and as Representative Connolly noted, a ‘fight’ that was ‘picked’ by this administration—is startling in that Democrats rarely offer the slightest critique of anything that falls under the umbrella of what Democrats call ‘reproductive rights.’”

Not all Democrats have abandoned the President. Senator Kristin Gillibrand applauded the administration’s position on MSNBC.

“I think the president made the right decision. I am dumbfounded in the year 2012 we are still debating whether women have a right to basic health care, basic contraception in this country.”

Roll Call’s Ambreen Ali cast the controversy as an opportunity for the administration to prove its commitment to reproductive rights voters.

“By taking a firm stance on birth control, Obama could galvanize liberal voters who have criticized him for being too moderate.”

That may not be easy for the president to do, as the mix of religion and reproductive rights is causing some organizations to take counter-intuitive positions. Catholics typically support the health care mandate — but on Democracy Now! — Jon O’Brien of Catholics for Choice points out — government funding is a double-edged sword.

“It’s clear to me that what’s going on here really is that the bishops are looking to have their cake and eat it. They actually want to run hospitals and schools, very often taking taxpayer dollars to do that, but they want to be exempted from the same rules as everybody else.”

For his part the president is trying to keep religion out of the debate. White House Press Secretary Jay Carney framed it as a health issue in a response quoted by USAToday.

"We're not trying to win an argument here … We're trying to implement a policy that will affect millions of women."

(Image Source:  MTV)

BY ALYSSA CARTEE

ANCHOR CHRISTINA HARTMAN

Paaaarty’s here! Watch out Jersey City. MTV’s “blast in a glass” is headed your way. The city gave the okay to shoot a Jersey Shore spin-off starring Nicole “Snooki” Polizzi and Jenni “JWoww” Farley.

A television blogger for NBC wonders if Jersey City Mayor Jerramiah Healy realizes what he’s done.

“[D]oes Healy know what he's let himself in for? He put emphasis on how the ladies will have to obey the laws, which Snooki, who arrested for public drunkenness during ‘Shore's’ third season, hasn't always done”

The city stepped in after a major rejection. The Washington Post explains.

“Last week, Hoboken Mayor Dawn Zimmer refused to allow the show, featuring the ‘Jersey Shore’ stars, to film in Hoboken, citing ‘public safety and quality of life concerns’ for the city.”

A political blogger for The New York Daily News says Healy may be more familiar with “goin’ hard” than some might think.

“JERSEY CITY'S apparent mayor-elect, Jerramiah Healy, hid nothing from the electorate. The city councilman outpolled 10 other candidates in a special election Tuesday - despite a widely circulated photo of him drunk and naked on his front stoop.”

Healy did stipulate that the cast and have to follow the law while in Jersey City. Extra security will be provided to ensure that but a writer for StyleCaster wishes that weren’t the case.

“Seems a little contradictory since the fights that we see the girls get into on the show are what keep us tuned in every week.”

WNYW reports current residents don’t know how to feel about the guidettes coming to town.

“Jersey City residents we talked to weren’t exactly fist pumping over the news but said they’d be willing to give Snooki and Jwoww a chance.”

Anchors for WNBC said who needs Hobokin haters? Jersey City is the perfect fit.

“That’s a no brainer. As soon as we heard about Hobokin we said ‘What about Jersey City?’ Enter Jersey CIty.”
“Be careful what you wish for.”

Snooki and Jwoww aren’t the only Shore stars with a spinoff. Paul “Pauly D” DelVecchio’s spinoff premiers on March 29.

(Image source: Danis Foundation)

BY BLAKE HANSON

After ending his presidential campaign -- Jon Huntsman is back to business -- a pretty big business. Ford announced Thursday the former Utah governor will be elected to the company’s board of directors. Bloomberg has a statement from the auto company...

“Here’s what Ford had to say in their statement about it, they said: Jon brings to Ford’s board of directors extensive global knowledge and experience - particularly in Asia with trade issues...”

Huntsman resigned from his ambassadorship to China in 2011 to pursue the GOP nomination. The Huffington Post says Ford is playing catch-up with some of its competitors in China and CNBC seems to agree...

“If you want to do some business in China? It might not hurt to have Huntsman on your board.”

Fox Business reports having a former presidential candidate on the Ford board is not all that uncommon, writing...

“...Huntsman joins former House Majority Leader Richard Gephardt, D-Mo., who also mounted unsuccessful bids for president.”

So, what else is in store for Huntsman? The Salt Lake Tribune writes...

“...he may take on a few more boards and is also looking at a potential job with a news media company, though he said details on that would be announced later.”

The move comes amid several other big management changes for Ford. Chief Financial Officer Lewis Booth and Global Products Chief Derrick Kuzak are both retiring. MSNBC has details on the impact the two had...

“... [Kuzak] oversaw Ford’s shift from a regional to a global product development strategy; and Lewis Booth, the maker’s chief financial officer, who helped guide its financial turnaround during a dramatic industry downturn that saw its two domestic competitors declare bankruptcy.”
 

(Image source: KTXL)

BY CHRISTINE KARSTEN

ANCHOR CHRISTINA HARTMAN

People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals or PETA filled a lawsuit against SeaWorld back in October saying SeaWorld enslaves whales, therefore violating the 13th amendment.

After months of waiting, a federal judge reached a decision PETA did not want to hear.

The Orlando Sentinel reports...

“A federal judge in San Diego dismissed an unprecedented lawsuit seeking to grant constitutional protection against slavery to a group of orcas that perform at SeaWorld parks, saying the 13th amendment applies only to humans.”

While the suit brought the ethics of keeping animals in captivity to the foreground, some found the basis of the case offensive. A blogger tells KNBC he thinks the lawsuit demeans the historic reality of slavery.

“To equate Shamu and friends to the millions of human beings who were degraded brutalised stripped of their culture and murdered, under a racists system of forced servitude that to me is just it is beyond insulting.”

Others think PETA has a point. A writer for Scholars and Rogues says for decades there has been discussion of whether or not it’s appropriate to keep intelligent animals like whales and dolphins in captivity.

“[W]hether they’re as smart as people are isn’t really the appropriate question. But they do seem to be smart enough to cause a great deal of head-scratching … Let’s face it—we’re talking about Killer Whales … we’re not talking about anteaters, or bats, or lizards.

But is this just another PR stunt for PETA? KTVK interviewed radio host Jim Sharpe, who says caging wild animals and giving them constitutional rights are two separate things.

“They're PETA...They are over reaching. Ya they are PETA. This is ridiculous are we going to give constitutional rights to ants? I mean where does it stop? I love animals I do animal rescue but I think you have to draw a line.

In a statement, SeaWorld denied any mistreatment of the animals and PETA says it does not intend to give up its fight to protect the whales.

(Image source: Wikimedia Commons)

BY ZACH TOOMBS

Five of the country’s largest banks and an assortment of state attorneys general have agreed to a $26 billion settlement surrounding the mortgage meltdown. According to Bloomberg, the deal would provide relief for about two million current and former homeowners hurt when the housing bubble burst.

“Here’s what it would have. $17 billion in mortgage debt forgiveness and loan modifications. $3 billion for refinancing. $1.5 billion to be distributed between 750,000 borrowers who’ve lost their homes to foreclosures.”

U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder announced the settlement Thursday morning and cited big banks’ mortgage malpractice as the reason behind the deal.

“Our investigations revealed disturbing practices. For instance, we saw that, all too often, services pushed borrowers into foreclosure, even though federal regulations require servicers to try other alternatives first.”

CNN reports the settlement hinged on an agreement from a handful of large holdout states that finally came around Wednesday night.

“California, New York, Florida — they are now on board. Almost all the states on board, so that’s important. The attorneys general of these states didn’t want to give up their investigations into the banking industry, and they won’t have to.”

But The New York Times says the plan leaves many victims of banks’ bad practices without aid.

“Despite the billions earmarked in the accord, the aid will help a relatively small portion of the millions of borrowers who are delinquent and facing foreclosure. The success could depend in part on how effectively the program is carried out because earlier efforts by Washington aimed at troubled borrowers helped far fewer than had been expected.”

In all, the plan helps roughly one million of the nation’s 11 million underwater homeowners. But a Fox News wonders why any should be receiving aid at all.  

“I have a real problem with bailing out anybody, even homeowners. If you bought a home and you couldn’t afford it, OK. And now we’re basically creating this moral hazard that the government’s backing you up, even if you can’t afford it.”

And while some criticize the deal, the Los Angeles Times says, it was the right deal -- for now.

“... this settlement comes at the middle of the story, not the end. Settling this piece enables the states to move on to other problems in the housing market, most notably the way mortgages were bundled, sliced, diced and sold to investors.”

The agreement would mark the nation’s largest industry-government settlement since the big tobacco settlement in 1998. The five banks targeted include Wells Fargo, Bank of America, J.P. Morgan Chase, Ally Financial and Citigroup.

But The Washington Post reports:

“The settlement could grow in size and scope if officials can sign on an additional nine mortgage servicing companies with which they have been negotiating in recent weeks. That would bring the total number of banks participating to 14, and could raise the face value of the settlement to about $30 billion.”

Bloomberg believes President Obama could also see political gain out of this plan. The latest state to sign on to the Obama administration’s deal: Florida -- sure to be a political battleground state come November.

(Image Source: Newsy Staff)

BY JIM FLINK

ANCHOR MEGAN MURPHY

Deceptive.  Driven. Willing to distort the truth.

Those are just some of the descriptions in a FBI file gathered when the late Apple CEO Steve Jobs was up for consideration for a presidential advisor’s position for the elder President Bush.

That file — which consisted of interviews with Jobs’ former colleagues — paints a sometimes unflattering picture.
Here’s the Wall Street Journal — which broke the story.

“A Palo Alto, Calif.-based man who identifies himself as a former ‘good friend’ of Mr. Jobs said that while he was ‘basically an honest and trustworthy person, he is a very complex individual and his moral character is suspect.’ Mr. Jobs ‘alienated a large number of people at Apple, as a result of his ambition.’”

Oh, it gets richer.  Wired says...

“One interviewee remarked on Jobs’s well-known drug use – which included, by his own admission, the use of LSD during his schooldays. Others mentioned that Jobs couldn’t be trusted... Some noted that while his ambition produced great success, it also caused him to lose sight of integrity...”

The interviews were conducted between the time Jobs left Apple — and the time he returned.
Not everyone offered such a dismal view. Gawker says, even Jobs’ detractors saw his enormous upside.

“In Jobs’ defense, many of the people interviewed attested to his upstanding moral character. And even those who savaged him still recommended him for the appointment, which he didn't get. As one put it: ‘[H]e believed ... honesty and integrity are not prerequisites to assume such a position.’”

Find it a little weird the government wanted to know all that about a man for a low-level government export post?  Well, CNET says, it got all those answers and more.

“Reading through the early pages, we know that Jobs wasn’t a communist or wasn't connected to any group that wanted to overthrow the government. They really asked him that. According to the Council's Web site, the group is the ‘principal national advisory committee on international trade.’”

Want to see the entire — now open — FBI file — replete with plenty of redactions?
You can view it — in our transcript section.
 

(Image source: Ynetnews)

BY BLAKE HANSON

U.S. officials say Israel financed, trained and equipped a terror group that killed an Iranian nuclear scientist. NBC News broke the story, writing...

“Two senior U.S. officials confirmed for NBC News  the [People’s Mujahedin of Iran’s] role in the assassinations, with one senior official saying, ‘All your inclinations are correct.’ A third official would not confirm or deny the relationship, saying only, ‘It hasn’t been clearly confirmed yet.’  All the officials denied any U.S. involvement in the assassinations.”

The report from NBC was following up on initial claims made by a senior Iranian official. So what’s Israel saying about all this? The Jerusalem Post writes:

“The Foreign Ministry declined to comment, saying it would not ‘react to every gossip and report being published worldwide...’”

The group is considered a terrorist organization by the U.S. State Department. Ynetnews.com has more on the terror group’s long history, writing...

“The organization fought the Iranian monarchy in the 1960s and the Islamist regime in the 1980s. It moved its HQ to Iraq following the 1979 Islamic Revolution. It was claimed it provided the US with intelligence on Iran.”

Before the news broke, NPR spoke with an expert from the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace who said we’ll likely see many more shots at Iran.

“...it's very likely that Iran's nuclear sites have been penetrated by foreign intelligence agencies. So there are likely to be more computer viruses and explosions and things like we've seen in the past.”

U.S. Defense Secretary Leon Panetta recently suggested Israel could attack Iran as soon as this Spring.
 

(Image source: WLUK)

BY KEVIN DUBOUIS

ANCHOR MEGAN MURPHY

Just a day after California struck down the state’s ban on gay marriage, Washington state lawmakers voted Wednesday to approve same-sex nuptials. WLUK reports the 55-43 vote in the House.

“Mr. Speaker there are 55 yeas, 43 nays, 0 excuse for not voting. Having received a constitutional majority in gross substitute Senate Bill 6239 is declared passed.”

Washington would become the seventh state in the nation to allow gay people to wed. Gov. Christine Gregoire is expected to sign the bill by next week. The Christian Post has her comments.

“With today’s vote, we tell the nation that Washington state will no longer deny our citizens the opportunity to marry the person they love … [W]e take a major step toward completing a long and important journey to end discrimination based on sexual orientation.”

Though two Republicans supported the bill on Wednesday, the opposition argued it goes against the institution of marriage. According to The Associated Press, Republican state Rep. Jay Rodne said that “it contravenes human nature and it will hurt families and children.”

CNN reports opponents want to take their fight against gay marriage to the ballot box.

“The National Organization for Marriage, which opposes the law, has said it will seek to gather the 120,577 signatures needed to put the issue to voters as a referendum in November.”

Otherwise, same sex couples could get married starting in June.

USA Today published an interactive map entitled “Where states stand on same-sex marriage.”

It shows that same-sex marriage is legal in New York, Connecticut, Iowa, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Vermont and the District of Columbia. And in this election year — the Washington legislature preceded several other votes expected across the country.

But The New York Times says “the issue may be more contentious elsewhere.”

“In North Carolina, voters will decide in May on a constitutional amendment defining marriage as between a man and a woman. Minnesota will vote on a similar measure in November. Austin R. Nimocks, a lawyer who argues against same-sex marriage for the Alliance Defense Fund, noted that while some polls showed increasing support for gay marriage, voters had never approved it at the polls.”

And yet, 55% of people said they would vote to uphold the law if a challenge to the gay marriage bill were on the ballot in Washington.

(Image Source: Ellen)

BY LAUREN ZIMA

Ellen DeGeneres took to her talk show to fire back at the group One Million Moms — a group that is protesting J.C. Penney making DeGeneres its new spokesperson. E! Online has the group’s statement.

“‘By jumping on the pro-gay bandwagon, JCPenney is attempting to gain a new target market and in the process will lose customers with traditional values that have been faithful to them over all these years,’ among other things.”

And here’s the response from DeGeneres.

“Being gay or pro gay is not a bandwagon. ... Here are the values I stand for. I stand for honesty, equality, kindness, compassion, treating people the way you want to be treated and helping those in need. To me, those are traditional values.”

DeGeneres also examined the One Million Moms Facebook page, where the statement was posted — noting the group only has about 40,000 members -- not 1 million. The Washington Post reports,

“As the comedienne pointed out, she had received an outpouring of support in the comments section on the One Million Moms’s Facebook page. DeGeneres was also defended by JC Penney, which said in a statement they ‘stand behind [the] partnership…’”

And in what Entertainment Weekly calls a “surprising move,” Fox News’ Bill O’ Reilly came to DeGeneres’ defense on his show, “The O’Reilly Factor.”

On the show, Fox News contributor Sandy Rios argued that spokespeople “stand for something” — so DeGeneres’ lifestyle is important. But O’Reilly called the One Million Moms campaign a “witch hunt,” comparing it to the McCarthy era.

“You don’t wanna shop there because you don’t believe the message they’re sending by hiring Ellen is a good message, more power to you. That’s your decision and your right as an American. But to come out and demand the woman be fired, that’s wrong.”
 

(Image source: WSB TV)

BY LAUREN ZIMA

The victim of an alleged anti-gay attack in Atlanta has come forward. 20-year-old Brandon White says he was beaten on February 4th by three men. Another man filmed the attack, and the video was widely circulated online. We want to warn you -- the following content may be disturbing to some.

White is seen leaving a grocery store. The man filming the incident uses a gay slur, as do the men he is filming. They then attack White, and while three men beat him, the men watching laugh. The gay slur is used several more times. Police believe the men to be members of a gang called Jack City.

On Wednesday, White came forward and revealed himself as the victim in the video. White calls the men monsters, says he feels violated and embarrassed, and that he wasn’t bothering anyone in the store. CNN has the footage. 

WHITE: “I shouldn’t have to worry about whether or not I should have to look over my shoulder, or is this person going to attack me, is that person going to attack me, for just being a gay male.”

No one has yet been arrested for the attack. The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports locals are outraged. A leader in the area of Atlanta, which is called Pittsburgh, points out another disturbing aspect of the attack.

“‘The biggest problem we have about this is that no one thought to stop and call the police,’ said LaShawn Hoffman, Pittsburgh Community Improvement Association president and CEO. ‘As if this is a norm. This is not the norm.’”

The FBI is now investigating to see if the case meets the criteria for prosecution under the federal hate crimes statute. But WSB TV spoke with Devon Barrington-Ward of Change Atlanta, who points out this brings up a state level issue.

“Georgia one of the only places without hate crime legislation, and that needs to stop. It’s sad that something like this has to take place in order for us to get some traction, but this, unfortunately, has to be a teachable moment.”

(Image Source: CNN)

BY HARUMENDHAH HELMY

ANCHOR JIM FLINK

This is Newsy Now and here are your latest headlines.
 

A monetary relief for up to one million American homeowners could be just around the corner. New York, California and Florida have reportedly gone in on a mortgage settlement deal worth 25 billion dollars with America’s largest banks. CNN says the deal could be officially announced as early as Thursday.
 

“This will be the largest and broadest housing rescue plan yet. The largest settlement between the industry, and industry and the states, since that big tobacco settlement in 1998.”

Greek leaders have now agreed on austerity and reform measures — all required steps to secure a 130 billion euro bailout cash. A Greek default could push the eurozone deeper into its crisis. MSNBC says the agreement is not without its contentions. 

“Some political leaders, however, have pushed back against amends to make $400 million pension cuts in order to receive a massie bailout from the other 17 Euro countries.”

 

Violent government crackdown continues in Syria. UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon is condemning the, quote “appalling brutality.” The BBC says up to 40 civilians were killed in Homs on Thursday.
 

“Some say it was the worst day of shelling. The Syrian armor roamed menacingly at the edges of those areas still holding out.”

 

A picture of the purported iPad 3 back casing has turned up — and CNET says it matches up with many of the improvements Apple is said to be working on.
 

For one — the internal logic board of the iPad 3 looks smaller than the iPad 2’s. This smaller size could open up room for an extended battery. But despite rumors of being thicker to accommodate a better screen, this iPad 3 is no thicker than the iPad 2.



 

Stay with Newsy for more news analyses throughout the day. For Newsy Now, I’m Jim Flink, highlighting the top headlines making you smarter, faster.

(Image source: Jack in the Box)

BY DAVID EARL

ANCHOR LAUREN ZIMA

Bacon-wrapped shrimp. Bacon on a baked potato. Bacon with eggs. We live in the age of bacon. But now, with your bacon cheeseburger … you can get a side of fries … and to drink?

ABC News writes, “It’s the bacon milkshake, and it’s the brainchild of the Jack in the Box fast-food chain.”

It’s just the latest culinary concoction Jack in the Box cooked up as part of its “Marry Bacon” campaign. Check out this TV spot...

“Mom...I’m getting married. Who’s the girl? It’s not a girl … it’s bacon.”

Okay. Marrying bacon to a burger is pretty standard, but bacon in your ice cream? How’s that taste? CNBC took to the streets to see if people are actually beggin’ for bacon shakes.

“It’s not my favorite and I love bacon. Bacon’s good with everything, and I’m a diabetic. I actually like it. I love bacon, but I never thought I’d like it cold.”

Some like it, some don’t. The foodies at Chow.com note — the shake doesn’t contain actual bacon.

“As far as the … cultural identifier masquerading as a 773-calorie beverage goes ... ‘bacon’ ought to be set off with quotation marks, since it contains no pork, only ‘bacon-flavored syrup,’ which is technically bacon-less.”
http://www.chow.com/food-news/105207/jack-in-the-box-bacon-shake-is-bogus/

So, good news for vegetarians, but if you want it, you’ll have to ask for the bacon shake by name. Jack in the Box says it’s not sending out any special menu signs for the specialty item. And is the bacon shake special? The Huffington Post did a little research...

“We couldn't find any other examples of major chains serving bacon milkshakes in the past. But Denny's has been serving a bacon sundae since April, so Jack in the Box isn't the first chain to hop on the bacon dessert bandwagon.”

In more shake-related news: The bacon shake announcement comes at the same time rival McDonald’s announced that its seasonal Shamrock Shake would go national for the first time ever in Spring 2012.
 

(Image Source: Los Angeles Times)

(Image Source: Inquisitr)
 

BY CODY LAGROW

A Santorum Sweep of Minnesota, Missouri and Colorado left Republican front-runner Mitt Romney defeated last night. At least for now.  PBS has the GOP presidential candidate’s reaction.

“This was a good night for Rick Santorum. I want to congratulate Senator Santorum. Wish him the very best. We’ll keep on campaigning down the road, but I expect to become our nominee with your help.”

Now analysts are asking the question -- are Romney’s expectations too high after losing a state he won in 2008? CNN reports.

“Despite the best efforts of Romney-world to downplay the importance of Minnesota, the campaign played to win there.”

Romney tried to improve his conservative image on social issues. He recently spoke out against an Obama rule that forces religious employers to include birth control in health plans. MSNBC said if it’s not his stance on social issues, it could be independent voters’ view of the former Massachusetts governor.

“What’s his problem right now? Independents viewing him more negatively. And even Republicans viewing him more wounded over Bain and other of these wealth issues. That’s what he has to consolidate and he’s got time to that."

Santorum showed strength in middle America last night. But the New York Times says Romney’s triple defeat exposed a disconnect to the Midwest.

“As the campaign moves to the Midwest and the Rust Belt, Mr. Santorum, a former senator from Pennsylvania, might find more strength and where polls suggest that Mr. Romney might have trouble connecting with voters.”

The Washington Post weighs in and compares Romney’s Minnesota defeat to other historic elections in the ‘Land of ten-thousand lakes’.

“The rebuke of Romney on Tuesday night was right up there with being the only state to vote democratic in the 1984 presidential election, electing former pro wrestler Jesse Ventura as its governor and electing former Saturday Night Live star Al Franken to the senate. Minnesota is the new low point for Romney’s 2012 presidential campaign.”

But while Colorado’s vote bound delegates to Santorum, Missouri and Minnesota’s did not. Because of that, the Romney campaign tells Yahoo! News that it won’t sweat the small stuff.

“Of course, there is no way to win first place in every single contest. But unlike the other candidates, our campaign has the resources and organization to keep winning over the long run.”

Mitt Romney will now turn his focus to Arizona and Michigan, where 59 delegates are up for grabs on February 28.  Super Tuesday follows a week later.

(Image Source: The New York Times)

BY NATHAN BYRNE AND HARUMENDHAH HELMY

ANCHOR JIM FLINK

This is Newsy Now and here are your headlines.
 

All three of Tuesday’s primaries belong to GOP presidential Rick Santorum, who’s sitting a little prettier this morning. Commentators on Fox and Friends say he ought to savor the moment.
 

“Attention, Rick Santorum, start your TiVo. This is the morning you’ve been waiting for. ...Who would’ve predicted this? A couple of days ago, it looked like Mitt Romney would take two of three, and Santorum routs him in two of three while taking all three.”

 

Reports of violence continue to come from Syria. Activists say they’re being fired upon as tanks enter neighborhoods. euronews reports...
 

“Neither reports nor images from Homs can be verified, but it appears ordinary families are bearing the brunt of the Syrian army’s offensive.”


European air safety officials are expanding a check for wing cracks on Airbus A380s. They initially ordered inspections only for the heaviest-used A380s in January. Inspectors traced cracks to Airbus’ use of a less-flexible aluminum alloy. CNN explains what’s ahead.

“It has to happen within the next three to four weeks. The planes will not have to be grounded, I’m sure this is the question many of the airlines were concerned about.”  

A recent CDC report says nine out of 10 Americans are getting too much sodium in their diet. The number one salt source? It’s not chips, not pretzels... but bread. Yup. HLN has the rest of the list.

“Number two with sodium-packing power: deli lunch meats. Then it’s pizza, chicken, and soups! You know, not all of these foods are high in sodium by themselves, but we eat too much of them, piling on.”

Stay with Newsy for more news analyses throughout the day.

(Image Source: The Hollywood Reporter)

BY DAVID EARL

ANCHOR ANA COMPAIN-ROMERO

If the deal gets done, you’ll have yet another option for 24-hour news as you flip through the channels. ABC News is reportedly in talks with Univision to create a new cable news network. Bloomberg has the headline.

“Discussions about the joint venture have been going on for at least six months, at least according to those sources, and operations could start up even before the presidential elections in November later on this year.”

But with so many sources for TV news, will this new network be a hit? A Wall Street Journal reporter thinks this network’s target demo is what makes it special. The outlet will be aimed at English-speaking Hispanics in the US.

“The Hispanic market is growing, it’s one of the few areas in an already saturated media world where in the United States media companies think they can see growth.”

And the deal might be good for more than the news division of ABC … a media blogger for the New York Times says Spanish-speaking Univision needs an English counterpart.

“The Spanish-language broadcasting giant wants to expand its footprint with English-language programming. First-generation Hispanics in the United States tend to watch shows in Spanish, but many second- and third-generation Hispanics gravitate toward shows in English.”

On the heels of ABC parent company Disney’s positive 1st Quarter earnings report, CNBC got an exclusive interview with CEO Bob Iger -- who was mum about the deal.

“Are you in talks with Univision to start a new cable channel?”
“I read the same story, and I have nothing to say about it.”

It seems the only hurdle left for the deal is getting the new network a spot on your cable channel list. And the New York Daily News points out that for the parent company of ESPN -- that doesn’t really seem like a problem.

“Getting a network off the ground will take some work … the partners will have to get clearance on cable operators and satellite distributors. It helps, of course, having the Walt Disney operation involved, because the network can leverage access to multiple channels to get the new one carried.”

This is just the latest flirt with cable to come from the big-three broadcaster. Most recently, ABC was in talks with Bloomberg to start a 24-hour cable channel to rival the likes of Fox News, CNN, and MSNBC.
 

(Image Source: TLC)

BY LAUREN ZIMA

The Sister Wives will have another day in court. A new ruling from a Utah judge says TLC’s reality family can continue with its lawsuit challenging Utah’s anti-bigamy law.

The famous family includes Kody Brown and his four wives. They sued the Utah County Attorney, the governor, and the state Attorney General last July, saying the state’s bigamy statute violates their rights to freedom of religion, speech and association. The county attorney had threatened to prosecute the Browns after their show debuted in September 2010.

The family then moved out of Utah to a Las Vegas suburb to avoid charges. The New York Post explains the judge’s new ruling.

“... [the Attorney General] has a policy of not prosecuting consenting adult polygamists as long as they’re not committing other crimes. But the judge wrote that [the county attorney] conducted interviews with the news media that made it clear he intended to investigate and prosecute the Browns. The fact that no charges have been filed does not matter, [the judge] says.”

The Salt Lake Tribune says the judge was upset over the attorneys’ chatter with the media.

“[He] lambasted Utah County prosecutors, who discussed a bigamy investigation to the Salt Lake Tribune, People magazine and other media shortly after the show premiered … ‘The entirety of actions by the Utah County prosecutors tend to show either an ill-conceived public-relations campaign to showboat their own authority and/or harass the Browns …’ [he] wrote.”

The Browns say they’re thankful to the court, but a writer for Gather isn’t so supportive.

“So Kody Brown and his four wives will now feel even more justified in their illegal lifestyle … And not only are they promoting something that most people deem immoral and illegal, they are making money via their reality show Sister Wives while doing so.”

But Gawker says …

“On the other hand, the lawsuit brings awareness to other polygamous families out there suffering …”

The lawsuit will continue against the Utah county attorney, but the judge has dropped the governor and attorney general from the case.
 

(Image source: Wikimedia Commons)

(Image source: WFFF)

BY BLAKE HANSON

A7, B6, G9...might be all you need to press to get yourself the Plan B contraceptive. Shippensburg University in Pennsylvania recebntly decided to add the “morning-after pill” to vending machines. Here’s KYW...

“The Plan B contraception can be obtained through a machine in the health center. Each dose costs $25 and the university will not make money from the sales.”

No student health fees go toward the pill. The university pays a pharmaceutical company $25 bucks for the drug. A reporter for NPR says prices are normally a lot higher for the popular pill.

“It costs, on average, $50. But it can cost as much as $90. Despite the expense, this type of contraception is slowly becoming more popular among women.”

The university says it made the decision to carry the pill after 85 percent of the student population said they’d support the idea. A reporter on WZVN talks with a school official who think this boils down to privacy...

“It’s really there, the machine is really used as much for privacy as anything else, if a person wants to come in.”

Meanwhile, WHAG spoke with a Shippensburg student who wasn’t pleased with the plan...

“‘I don't think it should be sold on campus … I do know it's sold in Rite-Aid, and Walmart and CVS, but I don't think it should be on campus, because it's just promoting unsafe sex.’”
 

Image source: The New York Times

BY ZACH TOOMBS AND CHRISTINA HARTMAN

It truly was a super Tuesday for Rick Santorum’s campaign.

The former Pennsylvania senator scored wins in all three states with contests Tuesday night. And in his victory speech he took aim at President Obama. Here’s the video courtesy Fox News.

“I don’t stand here and claim to be the conservative alternative to Mitt Romney. I stand here to be the conservative alternative to Barack Obama.”

The Tuesday night sweep gives Santorum major momentum. But, as POLITICO notes, the actual effects of the three contests on the GOP nominating process are somewhat suspect.

“All three primaries and caucuses are largely symbolic... In Missouri’s case, there is no direct connection between the primary results and the fate of the state’s delegates, while Minnesota and Colorado Republicans will apportion their delegates in subsequent party meetings.”

But Santorum does stand to gain a boost in fundraising and positive press after the impressive showing. As Roll Call points out, the wins give...

“...Santorum’s campaign a big public push as an alternative to Romney, who has taken pains in recent days to present himself as an unstoppable frontrunner in the presidential primary.”

For Santorum, the wins come after weeks of campaigning in the trio of states while Newt Gingrich and Romney focused on Florida and then Nevada. As for Gingrich, CNN’s Ari Fleischer says Santorum’s latest surge complicates the former Speaker’s presidential ambitions.

“The main line you need to use to beat Mitt Romney is, ‘I’m the alternative. I can beat him.’ And if you can’t beat him anywhere except South Carolina, you start to lose that argument.”

Ron Paul’s campaign had hoped to gain a victory at least in Minnesota, but the GOP presidential hopeful finished a strong second there. Still it was the Colorado race between Santorum and Romney that came down to the wire and served as the biggest upset of the night. In 2008, Romney won that state with some 60 percent of the vote. The Hill writes:

“The expectations had been high for Romney to win handily in Colorado, where he has been aggressively campaigning in the three days since he won Nevada’s caucuses, and where his campaign has worked for months to establish a solid ground game.”

The Republican primary race now moves to two other states seen as friendly territory for Romney. Michigan — where his father served as governor, and Arizona — where a relatively large Mormon presence could help the candidate’s chances.

(Image source: Opposing Views)

BY ALLYSON BROWN

ANCHOR CHRISTINA HARTMAN

After 8 months, a Texas man who paid $16 for a $300,000 house has been forced to move out. Kenneth Robinson used a loophole called adverse possession to move in to the abandoned home. Gizmodo explains how he got the house for 16 dollars.

“… the house foreclosed, the original owner abandoned his mortgage and the mortgage company closed shop. All Robinson had to do was file paperwork at the courthouse saying he claimed ownership of the property. That cost all of 16 bucks.”

ABC News interviewed Robinson at the time.

“This is not a normal process, but it is not a process that is not known, its just not known to everybody”

Bank of America acquired the property and foreclosed on it in January of this year -- then asked Robinson to leave -- but he didn’t. But a court date was set for Monday, and GoUpstate reports …

“Rather than wait to be evicted, Robinson slipped out before sunrise Monday, skipped a morning court hearing and refused to say where he was moving next.”

And because he didn’t show, Bank of America won.

“ ‘The court has ruled in the bank's favor. Mr. Robinson has six days to appeal, but he must pay an $8,900 — approximately $8,900 bond — to appeal,’ said David Orvand, attorney for Bank of America.”

The AP reports Robinson had become a bit of a local celebrity -- he wrote an eBook and created a website -- 16dollarhouse.net -- explaining how he got his living situation.
http://16dollarhouse.com/

And The Inquisitr says he was a hero to some, a pain to others -- neighbors had complained about him living in the house.

“...the fact that Robinson seemed to be gaming the very banks that caused the meltdown and the resultant pain experienced by so many Americans made him a bit of a folk hero to some- but others didn’t admire his actions as much.”


 

(Image Source: Metrolic)

BY LAUREN ZIMA
 

Feel bad about that extra weight you’ve been carrying around? Well, it might not be your fault. A new study from researchers at Yale shows obesity might be contagious. WDIV reports.

“When they put healthy mice in the same cage with mice with a fatty liver disease, the healthy mice came down with disease symptoms and also ended up fatter.”

KNSD explains …

“The reason? Microbes in the stomachs of the mice spread. That caused the healthy mice to also experience changes in their gut microbes and made them fat.”

So basically, when healthy mice were around mice who had altered gut microbes -- those healthy mice were more likely to become obese or get liver disease.

Seems potentially pretty scary -- just by being near someone who’s overweight, you could be too. But HealthyJockey.com reports the researchers used antibiotics to bring the mice’s microbial compositions back to normal, easing the liver disease. They hope this might lead to a treatment for humans, too.

The mice were fed a high-fat diet. The International Business Times quotes the lead author of the study -- who says bacteria could now be as important as diet.

“‘[Diet] is an essential part of the weight gain of the healthy as well as the immune compromised mice,’ he said. ‘However, the bacteria make both kinds of mice fatter. In others words, diet as well as the microbes contribute to the obesity.’”

Still, Blisstree is suspicious of the study and sensationalism from the media, writing …

“ … they’re not focusing on the major footnote: That it’s unlikely this could happen in humans, because we don’t eat each other’s poop. … the likely reason for such efficient transfer of gut bacteria between mice is the fact that they chow on each other’s feces. But mice … eating each others’ poop doesn’t make for such sensational headlines, so most media outlets are just hyping up the possibility that fat could be contagious.”

 

(Image source: 99.7 Radio) 

BY LIAM KEEGAN

ANCHOR LAUREN ZIMA

The ban on same-sex marriage in California has been ruled unconstitutional by a San Francisco court of appeals. Proposition 8 was approved by voters in a 2008 referendum, and the case is now likely to go to the US Supreme Court. CNN interviewed Billy Bradford of Marriage Equality USA outside the courthouse in San Francisco.

“For me it’s a beautiful day, not only for these great gay families and gay couples in California. It’s a great day for the Constitution and for the values the country was founded on.”

The Root has an excerpt from the judge’s ruling.

"Proposition 8 serves no purpose, and has no effect, other than to lessen the status and human dignity of gays and lesbians in California, and to officially reclassify their relationships and families as inferior to those of opposite-sex couples …”

The New York Times interviewed Freedom To Marry President, Evan Wolfson, who sees more progress for the cause in future. The Times quotes him …

“This monumental appellate decision restores California to the growing list of states and countries that have ended exclusion from marriage and will further accelerate the surging nationwide majority for marriage … ”

But what will the case mean in an election year? Washington Post blogger Greg Sargent says the decision puts the spotlight on President Obama.

“Obama has done a great deal for the cause of gay rights, and he has left the clear impression that he fully supports gay marriage, even if he has not been willing to say so out loud. This has only stoked a desire among gay rights advocates for Obama to come clean about his true beliefs.”

Republican presidential candidates Mitt Romney and Newt Gingrich have spoken out against the ruling. Gingrich Tweeted that the ruling is an example of judicial supremacy. Romney had more to say -- Talking Points Memo has his statement.

“Today, unelected judges cast aside the will of the people of California who voted to protect traditional marriage. This decision does not end this fight, and I expect it to go to the Supreme Court … I believe marriage is between a man and a woman and, as president, I will protect traditional marriage and appoint judges who interpret the Constitution as it is written and not according to their own politics and prejudices.”

So what’s next? MSNBC reports the backers of the case now have two options in taking it forward.

“Now the backers of Proposition 8, who are the ones who filed this appealed, now have a choice. They can either go to the full ninth circuit court of appeals in California, or directly to the Supreme Court and try to get the Supreme Court to take the case.”

(Image Source: Hollywire.com)

BY TOM MARTIN

It’s a short jump from six to five, unless you’re LA Lakers star Kobe Bryant. Monday, he finally passed teammate-turned-rival Shaquille O’Neal on the NBA’s all-time scoring list.

“Kobe on fire, needing only the first half to pass Shaq. And here comes a record bucket, moving into fifth on the all-time list.”

Since their very public split as teammates on the L.A. Lakers, Kobe and Shaq say they’ve mended fences. But a writer for Pro Basketball Talk says, for Bryant, this milestone matters plenty.

“Make no mistake, Kobe is savoring this — there is still no love lost between him and Shaquille. The feud was real … Remember when Kobe won ring number five [and] he couldn’t wait to remind everyone that [he has] one more than Shaq? He will privately savor this.”

Kobe and Shaq spent eight seasons as teammates -- and some wonder if it could’ve lasted longer. Kobe dispelled the idea Tuesday to ESPN’s Colin Cowherd.

"There's no way we would have lasted (15 years). Absolutely not … There was an interview that I heard Shaq do which he kind of threw down the challenge of me not being able to win without him … I said 'You know what? I can't finish my career with people saying that. There's no way.' "

Never the shy one, Shaq spoke up on Twitter — and offered Kobe his congratulations.

“Congrats to Kobe for being the greatest laker ever thanks for making us the greatest laker one two punch ever and congrats on passin me up 2.”

Shaq — the class act? A blogger for Lakers Nation believes it.

“In the past there has been far too much attention on the difficulties Bryant and O’Neal have had … but it seems that at this moment O’Neal is legitimately proud of Bryant. While I have to feel that no player really enjoys seeing their records broken, it’s nice to see O’Neal take the high road...”

But back to O’Neal’s Tweet — he calls Bryant ‘the best Laker ever.’ Eye On Basketball’s Royce Young says, Shaq could be right.

“Greatest Laker ever? We haven't forgotten Earvin Magic Johnson so quickly, have we? But then again, with Kobe now sitting firmly fifth all-time in scoring with a good chance to climb as high as third along with his five rings, maybe there's a case...”

(Image Source: Roll Call)  

BY VICTORIA CRAIG

Susan G. Komen’s vice president has resigned after a week under fire. Fox News explains the reason behind Karen Handel’s decision.

“There was a big dispute that happened over funding for Planned Parenthood. The Komen Foundation which is the nation’s largest breast cancer fundraising arm, basically said they were going to pull money from Planned Parenthood and it was met with a ton of controversy.”

Last week, the foundation explained its decision to exclude Planned Parenthood from future grants for breast cancer screenings because it’s the subject of a U.S. House probe. However, after major public outcry, the foundation reversed its decision. The National Journal says Handel’s involvement in the funding dispute is tied to her political beliefs.

“Handel was appointed to Komen last April, and she was quick to point out her strong Republican credentials. She had the backing of former Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin in a failed 2010 bid to become the first female governor of Georgia, one that was spiced up by debates and negative advertising over Handel’s position on abortion rights.”

In her letter, Handel admitted she did play a role in pulling funding from Planned Parenthood. As the Atlantic reports, her resignation is likely to draw more media scrutiny in the coming days.

“Handel’s admission is a new revelation in this ongoing story, and will likely re-ignite debates over whether or not this was a political decision. Last week, Susan G. Komen CEO Nancy Brinker denied that was the case, and Handel ... has kept quiet until now.”

Now, the Komen Foundation is doing damage control. One Huffington Post politics reporter tells CNN, Handel’s resignation is Komen’s first step toward winning back former supporters.

“Then they need to apologize again and come clean about exactly what happened. And going forward they need to have more transparency in the decisions that they’re making about who gets funded and who doesn’t.”

But while the Komen Foundation plays defense, all the controversy might have actually worked in Planned Parenthood’s favor. MSNBC explains why.

“Planned Parenthood on the other hand, raised more than three million dollars last week for breast cancer screenings as a direct result of the shutdown...”

In her resignation letter, Handel stood by the foundation’s original decision to withhold funding and said she was “deeply disappointed by the gross mis-characterizations of the strategy, it’s rationale, and [her] involvement” — saying the decision was not based on political beliefs or ideology.

(Image Source: Wikimedia Commons)

BY NATHAN BYRNE AND HARUMENDHAH HELMY

ANCHOR NATHAN BYRNE

This is Newsy Now and here’s a look at your headlines.
 

In U.S. news, President Barack Obama urged his wealthy supporters to donate Democratic ‘super’ political action committees, or super PACs. In 2009, Obama criticized the Supreme Court decision that allows super PACs to spend unlimited amount of money on political campaigns. KPIX explains what’s changed.
 

“A recent report shows Republican super PACs are bringing in nearly five times more money than Democratic ones. President Obama’s campaign is defending its decision -- saying the stakes are just too high to play by two different sets of rules.”
 

A blockbuster merger will create what reports call “a commodities powerhouse,” spanning agriculture, mining and trading. Trader Glencore is set to buy mining company Xstrata in a $90 billion deal.

But CNBC reports some of Xstrata’s biggest shareholders are skeptical, saying...
 

“...they don’t like the deal. If they’re going to be bought out, they think they could get a much better premium than what they’re getting off Glencore. So, expect that to occupy some minds in investors over the next few days.”

 

The California Court of Appeals is expected to rule on the state’s same-sex marriage ban today. In 2008, Proposition 8 technically made same-sex marriage illegal in California.

CNN’s senior legal analyst Jeffrey Toobin says the tide should turn today...
 

“Based on the way the judges reacted last year when the case was argued, I think a lot of people -- including me -- expect that they will overturn Proposition 8 and reinstate same-sex marriage in California.”

 

McDonald’s has pulled a radio ad and apologized after pit-bull owners barked about it...
 

The spot said claimed eating the fast-food chain’s new “Chicken McBite” was less risky than petting a stray pit bull. (Video: MSNBC)
 

Stay with Newsy for more news analyses throughout the day.
For Newsy Now, I’m Nathan Byrne, highlighting the top headlines, making you smarter, faster.
 

(Image Source: Fox News)

It’s the Obama administration versus the Catholic Church. The issue at hand? A mandate finalized two weeks ago that requires religious organizations provide contraception in health insurance plans. The feud was reignited after Heath and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius penned an opinion piece in USA Today.

“The public health case for making sure insurance covers contraception is clear. But we also recognize that many religious organizations have deeply held beliefs opposing the use of birth control ... in the rule we put forward, we specifically carved out from the policy religious organizations that primarily employ people of their own faith.”

Churches are exempt from the rule, but Fox News points out other institutions are in a gray area ...

“Devout Catholics and other religious leaders say the exemption is too narrow as many large, Catholic-affiliated schools and colleges and hospitals employ people of numerous faiths and therefore won’t qualify for it.”

And the Catholic Church says, “not good enough” and that the Obama Administration has waged a war on religious freedom. A writer for the Washington Post tells MSNBC now is not a good time for the President to engage in a battle of morals.

“It’s a somewhat odd fight for the President, or at least his administration to pick. Catholics, go back to 2000, you can go back further than that, but Catholics are regularly a swing group.”

And Republicans are taking note. GOP presidential front runners Mitt Romney and Newt Gingrich are using the opportunity to send a message about the sitting President.

Romney took to Twitter, Tweeting -- “If you’ve had enough of the Obama Administration’s attacks on religious liberty, stand with me … ”

Gingrich took a more direct approach on Sunday’s Meet the Press--

“He basically declared war on the Catholic Church. That’s the language of the Archbishop Dolan of New York, and I think you’re gonna see a very severe reaction to the idea of a radical Obama administration … ”

But the LA Times says this fight won’t do too much damage to the Obama campaign.

“Democratic strategists point to statistics showing widespread approval of birth control among Catholic voters, suggesting a gulf between clergy and parishioners. Catholic doctrine opposes birth control, but surveys show many Catholics use contraceptives.”

The mandate would take effect in August 2013.

(Image Source: Wikimedia Commons)

BY NIELS SCHACK NORGAARD

ANCHOR LAUREN ZIMA

Developments continue in Syria as the United States closes its embassy in Damascus and pulls out all staff -- including ambassador Robert Ford. On Monday, the State Department held a briefing regarding the escalation of violence. Fox reports ..

”The situation in and around Damascus is becoming increasingly violent, reflecting the fact that the regime is increasingly losing control of the situation.”

CNN’s Jill Dougherty explains the reasoning behind the shut-down.

”One of those concerns, we are told, is the possibility of some kind of Al Qaeda action. (...) This does not mean they’re breaking diplomatic relations but it is a serious step by the United States Government.”

The development comes after reports that the Syrian military is intensifying its assault on the city of Homs.  On Saturday, China and Russia blocked a U.N. Security Council resolution to stop the bloodshed in Syria and remove President Bashar Al-Assad. Al Jazeera writes:

”The death toll in Syria rose to at least 88 people over the weekend - one of the bloodiest since the uprising against Bashar al-Assad's government erupted almost 11 months ago. Opposition groups say at least 6,000 people have now been killed in Syria.”

For more reactions to the veto of the UN resolution, click on the link in our transcript section.

(Image Source: USA Today)

BY ZAKIYYAH WAHAB

ANCHOR LAUREN ZIMA

U.S. Senator John McCain warns the Arab Spring will spread to China. New Tang Dynasty Television reports on what happened during the 48th Munich Security Conference.

“I have said on many occasions and I will say it again. The Arab Spring is coming to China as well, and there’s not a way that you will be able to stifle it completely because of these devices (shows a mobile phone).”

McCain’s warning came in response to the recent self-immolations of three Tibetan monks. The New York Times reports there have been 19 self-immolations in protest of Chinese rule this year. According to Voice of America ...

“Many Tibetans accuse the Chinese government of working to erode their culture and faith, and resent the large-scale migration of China’s ethnic Han majority into Tibetan areas.”

The Times of India reports China’s foreign vice minister was visibly upset by McCain’s comments and refuted the possibility of a Chinise Arab Spring, saying ...

“‘Tibet is an integral part of China ... We are very resentful to any kind of lecturing on how we should manage our own affairs ...’”

The face-to-face confrontation highlights the divergent views on issues in Asia. The South China Morning Post notes ...

“It is rare for senior diplomats or political heavyweights from China and the United States to face off at major international forums ... perhaps even more unusual for a Communist Party-run newspaper to make [such] debates ... public.”

An international studies expert tells the state-run People’s Daily – McCain’s words reveal a lack of basic knowledge about both the Middle East and China.

"The current conflicts in some Arab countries have their root in geopolitics, practical interests and the Sunni-Shiite split. So it's just ridiculous to say the pattern could be copied in China.”

But The Telegraph points out growing unrest in the region.

“Following recent sporadic, deadly riots and a series of self-immolations … Beijing fears the potentially volatile holiday period – which begins on the 22nd – could muster coordinated and widespread anti-Chinese rule riots.”

McCain shook hands with Zhang at the end of the panel, saying that his comments reflect what the U.S. advocates for throughout the world, not just in China.
 

(Image Source: Mashable)

BY EVAN THOMAS

ANCHOR LAUREN ZIMA

Want to know who took the title in Sunday’s Super Bowl? It wasn’t the G-men nor the Pats. It was -- Twitter.
At least -- that’s the sentiment among the Twitterati.

The official word, from Twitter’s TweetDeck? 10k tweets per second in the final three minutes of the game set a US sports-tweeting record.

So much for all those couch potato quarterbacks. Arm-chair Twitterbacks were exercising their thumbs and fingers like never before. Well almost. TechCrunch sizes up the competition.

“Last year, there were several moments during the Super Bowl that set records for the most tweets per second during a sporting event, with a high of 4,064 TPS. Of course, the highs during the Super Bowl were no match for New Years Eve 2011 in Japan, which saw 6,939 tweets per second.”

As social media grows, so do its advertising implications. While many people tweeted about the ads -- or Madonna’s act -- or MIA’s fickle finger of fate -- there was nothing fickle about engagement in the Twitterscape. The Next Web calls it -- a trend.

“The news should not come as any surprise as Twitter continues to grow, both in terms of users and activity, which makes every Super Bowl more interactive and social than the previous year’s.”

Of course, some can get a bit excessive salivating over social media. ReadWriteWeb says Toyota may have overdone it a bit.

“The game did prove that some brands still have something to learn about using social media as a marketing tool. Toyota undercut an otherwise brilliant, dog-centric advertising campaign by effectively spamming any user that used a game-related hash tag...”

Eventually -- even Toyota recognized every Tweet isn’t necessarily a touchdown in the making.
Even with a fumble here or there, Marketing Land says next Super Sunday will be even more twitter-ific.

“If this year’s Super Bowl is any guide, with its 300 percent spike over last year’s game, future sports events should also set new records as we go through the year.”
 

(Image Source: Jalopnik)

BY LUKE LEONARD

ANCHOR LAUREN ZIMA

At $7 million a minute, ad makers battled it out for audience appraisal during Sunday night’s Super Bowl. So which ads captivated audiences and which ones fell through?

From H&M’s “sex sells” approach featuring David Beckham to Doritos’ comedic crunches, social media sites saw record-breaking comments, likes, and tweets about the ads. (Youtube)

ABC News reports Bluefin Labs tracked more than 109,000 social media comments about H&M’s sexy ad. Among others, Doritos’ “Man’s Best Friend” spot was the most positively commented ad on Twitter.

Doritos held its annual contest for filmmakers to submit their own Doritos commercials. Jonathan Friedman, the winner, spent a mere $20 on production for this submission, but netted a cool $1 million in the end. (YouTube)

Analysts saw a trend amongst advertising agencies involved in production for the Super Bowl. Fox News spoke to the chief innovation officer for Boston based advertising agency Mullen, who said ...

“... just about every brand built interactive elements into their commercials, knowing that the true measurement of success these days is immediate consumer reaction and long-term consumer engagement ...”

After Volkswagen’s 2011 commercial featuring a pint-sized Darth Vader won over viewers last year, they chose to bring back the motif in their newest ad starring an exercising dog. A writer for Forbes critiques the use of canines -- which were featured in several of this year’s spots ...

“You would think that the utilization of pets – and dogs specifically – would eventually be overplayed. And yet there is something about the emotional connection that so many of us have with pets that help advertisers tug at our funny bone and heart every year.”

The Guardian analyzes -- saying agencies tend to be more family-friendly and less forceful with Superbowl ads than during the majority of the year.

And looking at which ads didn’t fly -- like the demographic-defined approach taken by Kia and GoDaddy. (Youtube)

“Want to live your fantasies of nubile women, badass rock and giant sandwiches? Kia and GoDaddy have got your back. Their ads felt like some kind of grumpy heterosexual antidote to the camp spectacular of the half-time show.”

And a poll from The Huffington Post leaves GoDaddy’s commercial rated the worst ad of the night by readers. The accompanying article explains...

“ ... the gravest sin of some of the least popular ads in 2012 was not that they were particularly offensive but that they were particularly unoriginal.”


Prior to the game airing, Google reported pre-released Super Bowl preview ads were viewed more than 30 million times on YouTube.
 

(Image Source: The Insider)

BY LAUREN ZIMA

Gisele Bundchen proved herself a supportive football wife last week when an e-mail she sent to friends was leaked -- in the e-mail, she asked them to pray for hubby Tom Brady’s success at Sunday’s Super Bowl. But, the Patriots lost -- and she lost it.

The Insider has footage of Bundchen right after the game. Fans are heckling her -- one yells, “Eli owns your husband!”

BUNDCHEN: “He didn’t catch the ball when he was supposed to catch the ball. My husband can not f***ing throw the ball and catch the ball at the same time.”

With the headline, “Gisele Rips Pats Receivers,” WTVJ writes ...

“Gisele Bundchen didn’t wait long to start the blame game.”

A writer for MidWestSportsFans calls the comment “dumb,” saying Bundchen should know that -- as a celebrity, she’s always being watched ...

“And she also must understand how important the concept of TEAM is to the Patriots ... To throw Brady’s receivers under the bus like that undermines the win-as-a-team-lose-as-a-team mantra Brady himself espouses constantly.”

But The Province says Bundchen was just saying what was on all Patriots’ fans minds.

“...saying what a lot of non-supermodels not married to Super Bowl-losing quarterbacks were also thinking. … she wasn’t saying anything the team didn’t know.”

And TMZ reports there’s already backlash from the team.

“Tom’s teammates feel betrayed by Gisele’s behavior … Gisele’s pot shot violated the [team’s] code -- which is basically ... win as a team, lose as a team. As one source put it, ‘It’s like knocking someone when they are down.’”
 

(Image Source: KIRO-TV)

BY STACEY WELSH

ANCHOR ANA COMPAIN-ROMERO

News sources are reporting that Josh Powell killed himself and his two young sons at their Washington home Sunday. He was a person of interest in his wife Susan’s disappearance. A detective tells KOMO-TV the boys died in an explosion after a social worker brought them to their father’s house for a supervised visit.  

“DETECTIVE: He grabbed the kids, locked her out of the house and immediately the house went up in flames, very quickly, very big. So, we believe that Josh Powell intentionally set this fire.”

This comes after Powell lost a custody battle to the boys’ grandparents. CBS reports...

“...a Washington judge denied Powell custody of his two sons and ordered him to undergo a psycho-sexual evaluation after child pornography was found on his father's computer.”

Reports indicate Powell took his sons on a camping trip when his wife disappeared in 2009. A lawyer for Susan Powell’s parents told the Associated Press the boys saw their mother in the trunk of the car. They said their mother disappeared on that camping trip.

Despite this, the Los Angeles Times reports Powell returned to court...

“...in a bid to regain custody. ‘I have proven myself as a fit and loving father who provides a stable home even in the face of great adversity,’ he wrote in an affidavit.”

The house caught fire at about 12:30 in the afternoon. CNN cites shortly before that Powell...

“...apparently sent a three-word e-mail to his attorney. It said simply: ‘I’m sorry. Goodbye.”

Authorities were reportedly working to connect Powell with his wife's disappearance at the time of his death. KUTV spoke with the Pierce County Sheriff who refuses to call the incident a ‘tragedy’ because of the possible premeditation.

“...that distances us from it, that sanitizes it, that seems to make it less than it is ... Let’s call it a horrible murder because that’s exactly what we have here.”

Dozens of community members gathered at the boys’ elementary school for a candlelight vigil Sunday night.   

(Image Source: That Grape Juice)

 

BY CODY LAGROW

ANCHOR LAUREN ZIMA

Trips, middle finger slips and just moving the lips -- all three were part of Madonna’s Super Bowl halftime show. Metro gives us a peek.

“Madonna had a ‘choreography malfunction,’ falling off stage during a dance routine.”

LMFAO, Nicki Minaj, M.I.A. and Cee Lo Green joined Madonna on stage. The New York Times praises the halftime spectacle, saying...

“Madonna went all out ... a queen on her throne, a homecoming queen strutting in the bleachers, a church singer fronting a choir.”

Not everyone in Hollywood vogued along with Madge. Yahoo! News says some celebrities wanted more.

“Sharon Osbourne tweeted, ‘Madonna is back! She’s the queen. Just sensational!’ Piers Morgan responded to Mrs. O saying, ‘Queen of what? Lip-synching?’”

And People Magazine says British rapper M.I.A. stole the show from Madonna by flipping the bird to network cameras.

“The Queen of Pop was upstaged by her collaborator M.I.A. who flipped off the camera at one point during the performance. … There were no reports of fines … as of Monday morning."

Both NBC and the NFL released statements apologizing for M.I.A.’s mistake. Rolling Stone explains.

The NFL pointed the finger directly at NBC saying, “There was a failure in NBC’s delay system. The obscene gesture in the performance was completely inappropriate, very disappointing, and we apologize to our fans.”
 

NBC fired back, “The NFL hired the talent and produced the halftime show. Our system was late to obscure the inappropriate gesture and we apologize to our viewers.”

M.I.A. did not comment on her middle finger malfunction—but a source close to the singer tells the Daily Mail why it happened.

“She wasn’t thinking. … She was struck with a case of adrenaline. It wasn’t any kind of statement.”

Madonna sang her new single “Give Me All Your Luvin’” from her upcoming album “MDNA” as part of the show. It’s her twelfth studio album.


 

(Image source: Flickr/mkumm)

BY EMILY SPAIN

You're watching multisource business and U.S. news analysis from Newsy. 

Once filing for bankruptcy, now projecting record profits. The tide at General Motors might be turning in the company’s favor. Three years after a government bailout, the company reports it is targeting a $10 billion annual profit.

GM’s chief financial officer told the Wall Street Journal the company would increase its profit margins from six to 10 percent in order to reach the profit goal.

An analyst on CNN Money has faith that GM is on its way up.

“GM is really on its way, it’s moving forward. It reports earnings next week and the expectation is that it will say that it earned $8 billion in profit for all of 2011. Gosh, once upon a time that was almost unthinkable.”

But a writer for 24/7 Wall St. says GM’s profit target is unrealistic... and tears apart GM’s argument that it can rely on China - the world’s largest car market - to help make its profit goals.

“That plan has two barriers. The first is that the growth of the market for cars and light vehicles in the People’s Republic has slowed. The other is … GM no longer just competes with other foreign car companies in China. Local firms want to take market share from GM … ”

Fox Business reports American taxpayers still own one-third of General Motors, because the company has paid back just $24 billion of the $51 billion bailout. Stuart Varney on Fox notes GM’s progress, but also reminds us where the company’s coming from.  

VARNEY: “So, is General Motors back? You can say that it is profitable, it is stable and it has got good profit margins, but it is still very much in the hole to the taxpayer.”

Street Insider reports the company is expected to announce its fourth quarter and fiscal year 2011 results on February 16.

Transcript by Newsy.

(Image Source: Wikimedia Commons)

BY LAUREN ZIMA

ANCHOR MEGAN MURPHY

In a new book, a woman who is now a 69-year-old grandmother and retired church administrator claims to have had an affair with President John F. Kennedy -- when she was only 19 years old. 

Mimi Alford’s book is called “Once Upon a Secret: My Affair with President John F. Kennedy and Its Aftermath.”

Alford says she lost her virginity to President Kennedy when she was a White House Intern. The Herald Sun reports she met Kennedy in 1962, when the President was 45 years old.

“Alford was invited by Dave Powers, the president's ‘first friend’, to a White House party. She claims her affair with Kennedy began when the president invited her for a personal tour and then took her to ‘Mrs. Kennedy's room’. … ‘I was in shock,’ she writes of her post coital thoughts. ‘He, on the other hand, was matter-of-fact …’”

Alford says JFK never kissed her. But for more than a year -- after her internship ended and she’d gone to college -- he called her to meet him in hotels and even flew her to the White House. The Daily Mail has some of the more salacious stories.

“ … he 'forced' her to sniff amyl nitrate, commonly known as poppers, during a Hollywood party at Bing Crosby's desert ranch. … She also tells of how JFK asked her to 'take care' of his friends … ' … This was a challenge to give Dave Powers oral sex. I don’t think the president thought I’d do it, but I’m ashamed to say that I did... The president silently watched,' she said.”

Alford also says Kennedy asked her on a later date to ‘take care’ of his brother, Ted, but she refused. Sex aside, JFK also confided in her.

“ … Kennedy … even asked her to console him following the death of his baby son, Patrick … At the height of the 1962 Cuban missile crisis … Kennedy [told her]: ‘I’d rather my children were red than dead.’”

The story ends with JFK’s assassination. The two met for a last rendezvous in Manhattan in November 1963, just a week before he was assassinated in Dallas. Alford was set to marry her college sweetheart. The New York Post has an excerpt.

“‘He took me in his arms … and said, ‘I wish you were coming with me to Texas. … I’ll call you when I get back.’ I was overcome with sudden sadness. ‘Remember, Mr. President, I’m getting married.’ ‘I know that,’ he said, and shrugged. ‘But I’ll call you anyway.’ ”

Alford’s identity was first revealed in 2003 when another book blew the 40-year secret. She says she never met the First Lady during the entire affair.

(Image Source: HLN)

BY HARUMENDHAH HELMY

ANCHOR NATHAN BYRNE

This is Newsy Now, and here are your latest headlines.
 

In world news, Greece might have missed yet another deadline to reach a deal with its international lenders today. But a spokesperson denies the government even had a deadline. The Greek debt talks are at an impasse as lawmakers could not agree on the required austerity measures. CNBC explains what’s at stake.
 

Michelle Caruso-Cabrera: “This is a country that needs to borrow every single day, in order to function.”
Becky Quick: “How much?”
Caruso-Cabrera: “Half a billion a week, they need, just to keep running...”
 

Still in world news, Syrian troops launched fresh attacks at the city of Homs on Monday. The AP says they struck a makeshift medical clinic and residential areas. This, after Russia and China vetoed a United Nations resolution that would back the removal of President Bashar al-Assad from power. Sky News reports from near the beleaguered city.
 

“There’s no idea on how many people have been hurt. We know it’s a lot — the estimates vary, but there’s currently 75 to 100 confirmed.”
 

In U.S. news, a new poll shows President Barack Obama leading GOP front runner Mitt Romney in a hypothetical general election. The ABC News/Washington Post poll sees Obama with 51 percent of the votes, and Romney trailing with 45 percent. But ABC News reports - other poll numbers show, when it comes to the economy, Romney leads.
 

“And Mitt Romney, even though he trails Obama, is trusted more to handle the economy by a narrow margin, 48 to 45. And when it comes to trusting to create jobs, same thing, 47%, 45%. Romney with a slight edge.”
 

In entertainment news, NBC is apologizing for rapper M.I.A.’s middle-finger salute at the Super Bowl halftime show Sunday night. The rapper performed alongside Madonna and Nicki Minaj.
 

The network says its delay system didn’t catch M.I.A.’s flip-off until it was too late. HLN says – you gotta feel bad for Madonna.
 

“She had been rehearsing for months leading up to this. And now, all we’re talking about, instead of an amazing performance, was M.I.A giving the middle finger to the camera and in my opinion, a terrible move for M.I.A.”

Stay with Newsy for more news analyses throughout the day.
For Newsy Now, I’m Nathan Byrne, highlighting the top headlines, making you smarter, faster.

(Image source: Mobiledia)

BY BRICE SANDER

Social media addiction is real. Well, so say researchers from The University of Chicago.
They gave 205 people – ages 18 to 25 – BlackBerrys and prompted them seven times a day for a week, asking if they were feeling any urges.  

Researchers recorded more than 7,000 “desire episodes,” reporting the need to log onto social media sites like Facebook and Twitter topped the desire for sex, sleep, alcohol and cigarettes. (YouTube/Revision3)

Mobiledia tries to explain the serge in the urge to log on.

“Users find it easier to justify glancing at a Facebook page than having a drink at 2 p.m. …The stigma, as well as the dangers, surrounding alcohol and tobacco don't exist with social media, so users are able to rationalize their actions as harmless.”

A writer for The Atlantic Wire says it makes sense, but it’s a sad fact to face.

“Less fun and more addictive ... a sad combination. Not that we don't enjoy some Twitter time, but it's fun as a work distraction, not as a Saturday night activity … Basically, if drinking had zero consequences (i.e., hangovers) we'd booze all day long.”

When word of the study hit the web, the guys at The Hour put together a tongue-in-cheek self-help video, “Five Steps to Beating Social Media Addiction.”

“Recognizing that true friends never address you by your screen name.”
“Hey – great blog post last night, FuzzyPants24!”

Forbes joins The Hour in poking fun at the study’s findings.  

“There’s also the argument to be made that social media is just as harmful, forcing someone to recede from the world ... But it’s a little easier to make the harm argument with cigarettes.”

A Gawker blogger agrees, but raises some follow-up questions he’d like answered.

“ … it's hard to imagine a ‘rock bottom’ for checking one's phone too frequently … If anything, the study is something worth thinking about … What are the long-term effects of this dependence? How does the constant impulse to check our phones affect our attention spans? And why do I care how many Twitter followers I have?”
 

(Image Source: Flickr.com)

BY LEAH BECERRA

ANCHOR LAUREN ZIMA

Holy copyright infringement, Batman! Mark Towle, owner of Gotham Garage -- made custom Batmobiles for a living. But a judge just ruled that’s copyright infringement. Digital Trends explains.

“Towles had originally attempted to dismiss the lawsuit, claiming that the Copyright Act doesn’t protect ‘useful articles’ like a car and its design, but … according to the judge, the ‘useful articles’ exception doesn’t apply when there are so many elements of the car that serve no practical, well… use.”

This ruling could affect more than Towle -- he’s one of many who have made Batmobile look-a-likes.

Gizmodo shows one built in 2011 -- the only Batmobile that is actually propelled by a turbine.
 
The Hollywood Reporter was explains how the ruling went down.

“DC … accused Towles of violating its copyright and trademark and confusing the public into thinking that his cars were authorized products. Trademark is one thing, but can an automobile design really be copyrighted?”

The answer is, “yes,” according to the judge. But as Wired points out -- it’s not over till the fat Penguin sings.

“The opinion does not necessarily mean DC Comics wins its lawsuit that also alleged trademark infringement. However, the judge’s ruling doesn’t provide much hope for Towles, who can settle with DC Comics or defend himself at a copyright infringement trial.”

But Forbes argues that DC could have benefitted from Towle's business.

“...wouldn’t you think the occasional custom Batmobile would be just about the best sort of free advertising DC Comics could hope for? It’s not like they’re building cars.”

(Image source: Ace Showbiz)

BY BRICE SANDER

Demi Moore has reportedly entered rehab -- after being rushed to the hospital on a reported drug overdose last month. Here’s NBC’s Today.  

“The actress is being treated at the Cirque Lodge in Sundance, Utah for an eating disorder and addiction issues. The super posh rehab center is known for it’s one-on-one approach to addiction treatment.”

E! News was the first to break the story, claiming Moore consulted with a spiritual healer and psychic before seeking treatment.

“A rehab insider says -- quote -- ‘She is on total lockdown and only talking to a small group of people’ … Cirque Lodge is the same facility where Lindsay Lohan, Eva Mendes and Mary Kate Olsen reportedly went for help.”

Celebrity Health and Fitness takes us inside the upscale facility.

“The Cirque Lodge addiction treatment center looks more like a ski lodge than a hospital, and therapy there can cost north of $1,500 a day … The lodge specializes in alcohol and substance abuse treatment. It also provides services for ‘co-occurring mental health concerns...’”

After reports surfaced that Moore’s exes Bruce Willis and Ashton Kutcher were taking care of her in her Hollywood home, Jezebel questions how the media could have missed Moore’s move to Utah.

“... it seems like with a little bit less speculation about Moore's rumored Red Bull addiction and a little more relentless stalking we would have known that she'd gone to rehab and could have then made the appropriate arrangements to organize a vigil outside the Cirque Lodge's gates.”

No matter how she got there, an Us Weekly source says this move was needed for Moore to get better.

“Friends are relieved the actress is seeking treatment -- more than 20 years after she first went to rehab in 1985. ‘She knows she's in a bad place and needs help,’ a source explains. ‘Rehab is the only thing she can do right now. She needed something serious to get her back on track.’”

Moore is expected to stay in treatment for at least 30 days.

(Image Source: Bikya Masr) 

BY ALYSSA CARTEE AND KYLIE MCGIVERN

43 non-government organization workers will face trial in Egypt, including 19 American workers, one of which is Sam LaHood -- the son of U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood.

Al-Ahran explains the investigation.

“... [they] are accused of influencing political groups in Egypt by offering funding through their NGOs and will be prosecuted as a result of the ministry of justice investigation.”

But many are saying the investigation is more about making a statement, than actual wrongdoing. Egyptian activists describe the crackdown as a step backward - to the Mubarak-era mentality -- rather than a move forward. A government minister who serves under Mubarak is spearheading the investigation.

The Telegraph has more...

“Human rights activists fear the raids are revenge for their links to secular pro-democracy movements in Egypt...They complain that the breach of the law cited – illegal foreign funding – is not used against suspected support for religious groups from wealthy Gulf countries.”

Several of the American NGO offices were raided in late December. An analyst told Fox Business Network the workers have been worried ever since.

“The American NGOs, the people who are not working for the government, but who are doing good deeds in Egypt … a lot of them have gone into the American embassy in Cairo because they’re afraid of what might happen to them.”

Some feel the actions have greater implications - and that this is about more than investigating a legal funding issue. BBC reports.

“... Cairo's action has widely been seen as an attack on free speech and an attempt by the Supreme Council of the Armed Forces' (SCAF) to silence critics of its attempt to put down ongoing street protests.”

But CNN reports, Cairo’s attempts to silence has Congress members speaking out.

“Egypt's investigation of and raids on U.S. democracy support groups working in that country could mean the end of U.S. aid to Egypt, members of Congress told top Obama administration officials, as well as the head of Egypt's Supreme Council of the Armed Forces, last week.”

The two countries have been close allies for more than three decades. The Wall Street Journal quotes US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton on the investigations that could rock that steady foundation.

"We are very clear that there are problems that arise from this situation that can impact all the rest of our relationship in Egypt ... We don't want that."

As the Washington Post points out, threatening to cut off Egypt’s U.S. aid - including $1.3 billion of military assistance given each year -  is a swift, strong and unusual response.

“The investigation has triggered unusually blunt warnings from Capitol Hill to a nation that has for years been seen as a stalwart ally.”

Egypt’s ruling military has remained silent on the NGO raids. There is currently no date set for the start of trial.

(Image source: The New York Times)

BY ZACH TOOMBS

Mitt Romney’s presidential campaign is parting ways with a debate coach — the man credited with the candidate’s recently improved on-stage performance. In Team Romney’s eyes, that might have been too much credit. POLITICO reports.

“After (debate coach Brett) O’Donnell was ... highlighted … as being one of the reasons behind the former Massachusetts governor’s improved debate performances, Romney campaign officials grew uneasy ... it was made clear that there was severe discomfort about how his role was being portrayed in the media ...”

O’Donnell formerly served as a debate coach at Liberty University, and also coached Michele Bachmann. Stories such as this one from Bloomberg last week labeled O’Donnell a “potential game-changer” for Romney.

“The call went out the night Mitt Romney lost the South Carolina primary ... O’Donnell was in Tampa the next day, and less than 48 hours later, a pithier and more combative Romney showed up Jan. 23 to debate Newt Gingrich ...  Romney’s feistier delivery and more aggressive style that night ... may have helped turn the tide for him in Florida ...”

The solid debate performances were much-needed for Romney after a huge loss to Gingrich in South Carolina. The frontrunner seemed to have a newfound energy — delivering attacks such as this one on Newt’s role as a historian for mortgage giant Freddie Mac.

“You could have spoken out aggressively. You could have spoken out and said ‘These guys are wrong, this needs to end.’ But, instead, you were being paid by them. You were making over a million dollars at the same time people in Florida were being hurt by millions of dollars.”

Afterward, the praise came flooding in for O’Donnell, with NPR calling him an MVP ...

… and Prospect.org naming him the real winner in Florida.

But it was this article from The New York Times, referencing O’Donnell’s role as part of Romney’s Florida surge, that became a large point of tension for the campaign — this, according to POLITICO reporter Jonathan Martin, appearing on CNN.

“One of the Romney advisers — Stuart Stevens — called Brett O’Donnell ... and had O’Donnell call Jim Rutenberg, one of the story’s co-authors, to have his — O’Donnell’s — role in the comeback downplayed in the piece.”

Team Romney has faced some backlash for not retaining O’Donnell. A political contributor to Yahoo! News writes:

“If people working for Romney fear being punished for being too good at their job, one cannot but fear for the success of Romney either in his campaign going forward or in his prospective presidency.”

O’Donnell himself has refused to comment on the story.

(Image Source: Princess Cruises)

BY STACEY WELSH

ANCHOR LAUREN ZIMA

An outbreak on two Florida cruise ships left passengers feeling a different kind of seasick. Hundreds of passengers on the Ruby Princess and Crown Princess caught a norovirus --- causing vomiting, diarrhea and stomach pain.

Victims won’t suffer effects for more than a couple of days. The Los Angeles Times says noroviruses are…

“ … no cause for hysteria, but they’re far from pleasant ... They can also cause a low fever, headaches and muscle aches.”

The CDC warns prospective passengers about noroviruses, saying they’re found…

“ … in the stool or vomit of infected people and on infected surfaces that have been touched by ill people. Outbreaks occur more often where there are more people in a small area.”

The illness is often associated with ships because outbreaks are reported quickly, and health officials can track how it’s spread faster than on land. According to Huliq.com, this isn’t the first time sickness broke out on a Princess Cruises ship.

“Between May and July 2011, there were three outbreaks reported for the Sea Princess. [The ship] was headed to Alaska.”

Princess says it has solved the problem after employees and passengers were careful to wash their hands often.

WPLG reports the cruise line stepped up cleaning procedures and quarantined sick passengers after people first reported symptoms.

“TERESA: Sometimes it seems a little overdone, because you had to sterilize your hands as soon as you went in to eat.”

And comparisons to the Costa Concordia incident were abound. The New York Daily News writes...

“The hits keep coming for the cruise industry.”

And a writer for Gawker says…

“I plan on avoiding all cruise ships for the rest of the year — barring the 3D extravaganza of Titanic's April re-release.”

Media outlets report Princess Cruises delayed the next departure times for both ships.

(Image Source: KSWB)

BY HANK KOEBLER

ANCHOR BRICE SANDER

The relationship between NBA Hall of Famer Karl Malone and Utah Jazz owner Greg Miller has devolved into a public squabble. Malone sparked the controversy by airing his grievances over former coach Jerry Sloan’s resignation.

The Mailman told KSWB Sloan resigned because Miller wouldn’t let him discipline point-guard Deron Williams.

“In your opinion, do you feel Deron Williams played a big role in why coach Sloan stepped down?”
“Absolutely. Let’s just keep it real. I think he had something to do with it. Coach Sloan is a classy guy and he wasn’t going to fight the battle.”

Malone also claimed the Jazz refused to give him a ticket to a game, forcing him to buy from scalpers. Miller fired back -- first on Twitter and then on a blog post, calling Malone “high maintenance.” ESPN has more of Miller’s comments.

“The owner and CEO of the Jazz, Greg Miller, calling Karl Malone too unreliable and too unstable to help the team as an assistant coach, and claimed the two-time M.V.P. lied about having to use a scalper to purchase tickets to a Jazz game.”

The feud reignited the year-old controversy over Sloan’s sudden mid-season resignation last year. Many, including Malone, say when disagreements between Sloan and Williams boiled over, management sided with the player over the coach.

Sloan issued a statement saying stories of a forced resignation simply aren’t true. AOL has his comments.

"I left on my own volition. It is not true that the Millers undermined my authority as head coach. I had their complete backing to run the team as I wished and was assured that no player could ever overrule my decisions."

Fans have been taking sides on Twitter and other social media in response to the public bickering. Local writers and personalities offered their take on the dispute as well:

A sports writer for the Salt Lake Tribune tweeted:
“Greg Miller just entered a no-win zone, in my opinion.”

Sports agent Steve Kauffman criticized Malone, writing:
“...most of us who have been around know this is a guy that likes to hear himself talk. Actual veracity be damned.”

And another sports editor tried to be the voice of reason.
“In [a] situation like this, everyone could be sincere and telling truth as they see it. Because much of that belief is based on own perception.”

A Yahoo! Sports blogger says the public disagreements better be settled quickly, because they’re making the whole franchise look bad.

“Nobody looks good here. From Sloan to Malone to Deron Williams to Miller to Jazz GM Kevin O'Conner (who is, we should point out, quite good at his job) or to anyone who buys either side as an absolute… This needs to go away, and soon.”
http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/nba-ball-dont-lie/utah-owner-strikes-back-karl-malone-163025407.html

(Image Source: The Indianapolis Star)

BY GINA COOK

ANCHOR LAUREN ZIMA

The duo LMFAO is known for wiggling in the song “Sexy and I Know It,” but there was no wiggle room available at the pair’s Super Bowl weekend concert. 
 

The Chicago Tribune reports 11 people were injured at the show. None of those injuries were life-threatening.

“Rumors of stampedes, stage collapses and gunshots abounded on social-networking site Twitter as crowds grew Friday. … Indianapolis Metropolitan Police officers investigated them all and found no problems.”



So we know the rumors, but what really happened? WTHR reports massive overcrowding caused issues. Here’s video from that night.

Reporter: “ … The hundreds of thousands of people police had to manage throughout the Super Bowl Village Friday night. The super-huge crowd forced officers to shut down vehicle traffic to make room for Super Bowl fans on foot.”



And WISH explains some of the crowd-managing tactics.

Reporter: “You’ll notice this officer is carrying a pepper-spray gun. That will be used in case they need to manage the crowd.”



USA Today reports those pepper-spray guns were used on at least two different arrest attempts and describes the tone of the event.

“Some concert-goers reported to police that the pushing and shoving frightened them.”



And a writer for The Indianapolis Star recalls his experience in the human gridlock saying,

“I and the fans around me were thrown into an involuntary, slow-motion mosh pit. For about 10 minutes, we couldn’t focus on anything but staying on our feet.”



This is Indianapolis’ first time to host the Super Bowl. After Friday night’s concert, police closed down additional streets to manage the crowds.

(Image Source: The Burlington Free Press)

BY LAUREN ZIMA

Some Vermont police cruisers were gettin’ piggy with it thanks to prison inmates -- the police just didn’t know it. KATU reports on what inmates at a prison print shop did to decals that went on police cars.

“This is what the cow is supposed to look like on the decal, but notice the difference on the new decal. One of the cow’s spots is actually a pig -- a derogatory term for police.”

But the decals might not be so new -- KPTV has details on how long it took police to notice the pig shape.

“A trooper just noticed the problem -- nearly four years after the inmates printed them off.”

The decals made it onto 30 cars. KTTV anchors had a good laugh -- and a bit of a debate, over the decals.

(laughter)
“It’s in the shape of a pig.”
“That’s what they get!”
“It took a sharp-eyed officer.”
“He should get a promotion.”
“I thought they should’ve made donuts instead.”
“That’s not right.”

But The Burlington Free Press spoke with Vermont Corrections Commissioner Andy Palito and Major William Sheets -- executive officer for the Vermont State Police. Neither of them are laughing.

“While some people might find humor in the news story, Sheets and Pallito said, it comes at the expense of Vermont taxpayers. Pallito said each decal costs $13. He believes 60 defective decals were manufactured.”

For those of you reaching for your calculators -- that’s $780.
 

(Image Source: Wikimedia Commons)

BY LAUREN ZIMA

55-year-old John Hughes got in a high-speed chase with police -- a chase he started. WTVT reports.

“Many people have what they call a bucket list -- things they want to do before they kick the bucket. Well, a 55-year-old man in Montana always wanted to experience a high-speed police chase, so he did.”

The Montana Standard has details of the chase -- which began at about 3:30 in the morning.

“ … the driver of a 2007 Nissan Xterra started tailgating a police patrol for about seven blocks ... then pulled into the center lane and drove away … Police say the driver was traveling at more than 70 mph and refused to pull over.”

And KMSP reports:

“He hoped the police would follow him -- well they did. The chase reached speeds of 100 mph before officers used stop strips to flatten the man’s tires and end the chase.”

After finally flattening Hughes’ tires, police had to ask one simple question: why? USA Today reports Hughes was not intoxicated and investigators found no drugs in his vehicle. Here’s Hughes in his own words:

“‘I just always wanted to do that,’ he said, according to the Butte police report.”

But -- the ‘bucket list’ excuse didn’t fly when it came to criminal charges. WTVT reports Hughes is facing a misdemeanor charge of reckless driving.
 

Image source: Washington Life

BY ZACH TOOMBS

Donald Trump is looking to sell some choice real estate. For a pretty penny you could have some well-to-do neighbors, a great view and you’re just a few hundred feet away from a world-class golf course. One downside: you wouldn’t be alive to enjoy it.

Florida’s WPBF reports.

“Real estate mogul Donald Trump is trying to get into the cemetery business. The part-time Palm Beacher wants to build a 1.5-acre cemetery next to his golf course in New Jersey.”

WCBS says the grounds at this final resting place would be just as exclusive as Trump’s nearby golf course.

“(The cemetery) would be available for club members to rest in peace, but ... a section could be saved for Trump and his kin. The plan would also make the club available for late golfers to have their ashes spread there.”

No word yet on how much a plot at Trump’s place would cost, but …

His cemetery would have some stiff competition from top-dollar resting places such as this one at Mount Auburn Cemetery in Massachusetts. A prime spot in one of the cemetery’s many mausoleums can sell for as high as $500,000.

The state of New Jersey will have the final say in green-lighting The Donald’s cemetery. Gov. Chris Christie’s office seemed pleased with the news. A spokesman for the governor told Newark’s The Star-Ledger:

"Donald Trump can be buried anywhere ... so I guess we should be honored that he’s considering New Jersey."

(Image source: Red Dog Report)

BY NATHAN BYRNE

(Image Source: ABC News/James Deen)

BY LAUREN ZIMA

James Deen -- no, not the one you’re thinking of -- is the subject of a special on ABC’s Nightline -- because of his following of young women. ABC reports teenage girls are flocking to 25-year-old porn star Deen’s doings.

“The young fans tell us they’re drawn to Deen because he’s different -- a porn star who holds hands with his leading ladies.”
DEEN: “They’re sexual enough that it is something they desire, they crave, they want.”

But -- news on the Nightline piece is becoming less about Deen’s package, and more about ABC’s video package. Salon.com says the piece is propaganda targeting parents.

“ … [it’s the] finest piece of parental scaremongering that I’ve seen in some time. … reporter Cecilia Vega announces that the adult business ‘has now targeted and reached a new demographic: teenage girls.’
… It’s not like teenage girls would ever happen across this X-rated material because they want to watch porn — there must be some cute ‘boy next door’ tricking them into it.”

The controversy surrounding the story doesn’t stop there -- Amanda Hess, lifestyle editor at Good magazine, says Nightline ripped off her work. She wrote a piece on Deen in November. After seeing Nightline’s story, she Tweeted at the show and reporter Cecilia Vega ...

“Hey @Nightline @ceciliavegaABC I liked your James Deen story better when I wrote it.”

MediaBistro sides with Hess.

“ … Hess … has a right to be upset. … Nightline on Thursday completely ripped off her November 2011 profile of rising male porn star James Deen … the ABC News report by Cecilia Vega seems to be the TV equivalent of the Web’s rampant and often egregious lack of proper hat tipping …”

A writer for The Washington Post points out similarities between the pieces -- but gets Nightline side of things, too.

“‘Nightline’ has this take: ‘Anyone that spends five minutes with James Deen would come up with these same observations.’ … Says … Deen: ‘People copy people. . . . At the end of the day, who cares? … Be happy and have fun.’”


 

(Image source: Suffolk County Police Department)

BY EMILY SPAIN

You're watching multisource U.S. news analysis from Newsy.

Police are on the lookout for two men who stole Rogaine from a CVS Pharmacy in New York.
What do the suspects look like? Big surprise here... they’re bald.

Authorities say surveillance video shows the bare-headed pair placing three boxes of Rogaine in a gift bag and then leaving the store without paying.

Police say the men got away with about $150 worth of the product. But a writer for The Consumerist asks if the crime was really worth it, noting Rogaine probably won’t lengthen the bald guys’ locks.

“You see, we read up a bit on Rogaine, and it doesn't appear that the topical treatment offers to ‘cure’ baldness, just stimulate hair growth and slow the balding process. So for our bald pal, that whole shoplifting thing might've been a waste.”

Officers are offering a $5,000 reward for information leading to arrest of the bald bandit. And the New York Post reports the Rogaine ransack is more common than you might think.  

“ … the high-priced treatment is routinely lifted from stores around the country and resold on the street or the Internet.”

The Daily Mail points out another instance where Rogaine was the prize to steal.  Except this time instead of just three boxes, the thieves got away with an entire shelf.

“An unidentified woman made off with what was the store's entire stock of the formula which totaled approximately $400 according to police. She managed to escape to a get-away car driven by three men. It wasn't reported if any of the four suspects were bald or not.”

Transcript by Newsy. 

Image source: The New York Times

BY ZACH TOOMBS

GOP presidential hopeful Mitt Romney strolled to an easy win Saturday in the Nevada caucuses. The candidate took the vast majority of the vote in a state where his Mormon faith made him a solid favorite.

As always, Romney kept his sights on the president in his victory speech.

“We’re going to build an America where hope is a new job with a paycheck, not a faded word on an old bumper sticker.”

The win was no surprise in a state where Romney carried 51 percent of the vote in the 2008 caucus. But, as POLITICO notes, Nevada could serve as a launch pad for a series of Romney wins sure to damage his opponents.

“For Romney, Nevada and the next string of contests represent an opportunity to deny his opponents political oxygen. In addition to being favored in Nevada, Romney is the front-runner or is strongly competitive in all the other states voting between now and the March 6 Super Tuesday primaries.”

Gingrich also spoke from Nevada in a news conference. The candidate, who finished second in Nevada with 25 percent of the vote, went on the offensive against Romney for what he saw as inaccuracies in prior debates.

“I’ve never had a person stand next to me in a civil engagement and be as substantially dishonest as he was. I mean, go look at what he said. You had Larry Sabato in the middle of the debate Tweeting that Romney was being factually false.”

Finally, on CNN panelist Erick Erickson says Gingrich’s resilience could cause headaches for team Romney.

“This is Mitt Romney’s worst nightmare. You have a candidate who is conveying that he would rather beat Mitt Romney than be president of the United States. And there are a majority of Republicans still who agree with him on that.”

(AOC)
Both Ron Paul and Rick Santorum, who finished third and fourth in Saturday’s caucuses, spent the day away from Nevada, turning their focus to upcoming primaries in Minnesota, Missouri and Colorado.

(Image Source: ABC.net.au)

BY BLAKE HANSON

Just hours after a massive attack on the Syrian city of Homs -- the U.N. Security Council rejected a proposal calling for Syrian President Bashar Assad to step down. The New York Times writes...

“While the casualties were impossible to confirm, and were denied by Syria, reports of the bloodshed drew widespread international condemnation, and moved the Security Council toward a vote on an Arab League peace plan, despite new objections by Russia.”


Ultimately, both Russia and China vetoed the plan. The Guardian points to Russia’s history with Syria as a possible reason for the veto...

“Syria has been a key Russian ally since Soviet times and Moscow has opposed any UN demands that could be interpreted as advocating military intervention or regime change.”

Meanwhile, The Telegraph points to another part of the resolution it suspects Russia took issue with...

“... Russia said it could not support a resolution backing an Arab League plan for a swift transition of power and elections. It was said to have demanded a last-minute change dropping a call, already agreed by Syria in November, for tanks and artillery to be withdrawn from the streets.”

So what does this mean for progress in Syria? A CNN anchor and analyst react to the failed vote...

ANCHOR: “Months of paralysis inside the U.N. Security Council, now lead essentially to a diplomatic dead-end.”
ANALYST: “I think Western ambassadors will say it might all have been a charade a stall to the last minute.”
 

Shortly after the vote, U.S. United Nations Ambassador Susan Rice tweeted...

“Disgusted that Russia and China prevented the #UN Security Council from fulfilling its sole purpose.”

 

(IMAGE: Sodahead.com)

BY BLAKE HANSON

From her sitcom, to her nut farm, to the White House? Yup, believe it or not -- Roseanne Barr is running for president. Here’s KYW...

“Roseanne Barr says she’s running for president, and she say it’s no joke. The actress and comedian is seeking the Green party nomination.”

As for her platform? Barr says she’d launch European-style single-payer health care, forgive all credit card and mortgage debt and push for the legalization of marijuana. Media outlets like The Mary Sue are already speculating the move is symbolic, writing...

“Barr is really running … to get her point across, much the way Stephen Colbert did in South Carolina. Except Colbert actually had a lesson to teach us about why everything is wrong with campaign finance. Roseanne just has strong opinions on Twitter.”

But The Five host, Bob Beckel, thinks Barr’s move could play a role in the campaign.

“If she really does go on the ballot in some states, the Green party can siphon off 25, 30, 50,000 votes.”
“It’s not completely laughable.”

So will Barr rake in many votes? The Christian Science Monitor talks with a political scientist who says...

“In some previous elections … ‘[voters] look for an alternative like Ralph Nader or even Ross Perot.’ But this year … voters are more divided into camps, and many are keenly aware that a few votes made a difference in the 2000 election.”

A rising number of celebrities talk about running for President, but Mother Nature Network says -- if Barr is really running, she could shake things up.

“Of course, lots of people — comedians in particular — joke about running for president, but few ever follow through, so this announcement to turn the Green Party nomination into a four-way race certainly makes thing interesting.”

The Green Party will announce its nomination at a convention in July. Meanwhile, a recent poll by Green Party Watch already has Barr second in the polls behind Jill Stein.
 

(Image Source: The New York Daily News)

BY TOM MARTIN

Yankees GM Brian Cashman is used to dealing with money -- the Yankees’ money, and how it’s spent on Yankees players. Now he may end up in court in a case to protect his own pockets. 

Here’s News 12:

“This is the woman accused of stalking --and blackmailing Yankees General Manager Brian Cashman. Prosecutors say Louise Neathway extorted $6,000 from Cashman - then tried to get another $15,000 bucks.”

Neathway -- who also goes by “Meanwell” -- says Cashman’s story is skewed. She says the two had a healthy relationship that ended when Cashman wouldn’t leave his wife. She spilled more details to Deadspin’s AJ Daulerio:

“[Neathway] told me that Cashman had given her $6,200 to help pay for the lease on her apartment … She showed me a deposit slip … Both [Neathway] and apparently Cashman agree that a large amount of money changed hands on more than one occasion. The difference is that Cashman calls this extortion; [Neathway] calls this rent money.”



As WABC reports, the case has another “big difference:” Cashman’s record is clean. Neathway’s isn’t.

“She’s currently on probation for a New Jersey stalking case that was dropped in the end to a trespassing charge. But according to the district attorney, that case involved multiple years of stalking.”



Says baseball blog Big League Stew: Forget how the case ends: should the Yankees care it ever began?

“The Yankees have declined comment, but they don't seem to be worried that Cashman's involvement … will affect how he runs the team. That is the bottom line as far as baseball is concerned, isn't it?”



Hardball Talk wonders why this should be anyone’s business.

“On the one hand … it has nothing to do with baseball. On the other hand, Cashman and a handful of other larger baseball figures are routinely covered … for non-baseball things … this is a balancing yin to all of that yang … Deep down we all like gossip and let’s not pretend we don’t.”

(Image Source: BBC News)

(Image source: Business Insider)

BY LAURA JANVIER

ANCHOR LOGAN TITTLE

The Huffington Post is making the move to TV. The new media giant announced Thursday its plans for an online news channel. KUVE has the details.  

“A new television network -- on the web. The Huffington Post says this summer it will begin providing 12 hours each weekday of live original programming. The content will be similar to the Huffington Post website.”

They’re calling it the Huffington Post Streaming Network, or HPSN. Arianna Huffington, editor-in-chief of the Huffington Post Media, told Beet.TV what makes the product unique is that it will be interactive.

“And it is much more the way my children, my two daughters who are in college watch television, which is they open up different windows: their Facebook, their Twitter feeds, their email.”

The idea is to create a network where viewers can interact with the anchors through social media. Demo clips showed commenters being invited on the show via Skype to speak directly with journalists about their stories. A writer for Forbes says this could be a glimpse into the future of television.

“All of this is probably what every cable network will be doing more of as viewership shifts from one-way television sets to internet-enabled devices. But if AOL can get there first, the opportunity could be large.”

But the opportunity won’t come cheap. A writer for DigiDay outlines just how big of a project this is.

“The service itself is ambitious, but even more so is the investment AOL is putting behind it: $30 million, according to an AOL source. HuffPo plans to create all the video itself. It will dedicate 100 employees to the operation. The scale of the effort would put it on track to be one of the largest producers of original for the Web video around.”

Venture Beat says even though this is a big investment, AOL stands to make big returns if it’s successful.

“The choice to transform the Huffington Post into a video network also makes a lot of sense. [AOL Chief Executive Tim] Armstrong said 70 percent of Huffington Post articles contain embedded videos. So, by producing the bulk of those videos in-house, AOL will be able to gain more leverage on advertising.”

The service is planned for this summer and they plan to extend content to 16 hours a day by 2013.

(Image source: Act For America) 

BY MALLORY PERRYMAN

An editorial post claims U.S. Defense Secretary Leon Panetta believes Israel will attack Iran soon-- and the media ran with the story.

“U.S. officials now fear Israel might attack Iran’s nuclear facilities sooner than later.” (NBC)

“A report that Israel may be getting ready to launch an attack this spring.” (Fox News)

“...U.S. officials worry that Israel could actually attack Iran as early as this spring.” (KTTV)

That news came from this editorial piece by David Ignatius in The Washington Post.

“Panetta believes there is a strong likelihood that Israel will strike Iran in April, May or June...”

But Politico’s Tim Mak points out--

“Ignatius does not characterize the source behind his claim...Indeed, the writer does not indicate whether his source is Panetta himself, top aides to the secretary, or someone else.”

When asked about the article-- Panetta told the Associated Press-- he’s not commenting on the story.

But CNN’s Barbara Starr says she confirmed the timetable with a senior Pentagon official. She explains, Israeli officials believe this spring is their last chance to reach Iran’s nuclear facilities with Israel’s own weapons.

Barbara Starr: “After that, they believe Iran would have made enough progress that Israeli weapons can not get to Iran’s nuclear effort, it would only be U.S. weapons.”

If Israel goes ahead with the strike, the U.S. may have to get involved. And NBC’s David Gregory says, that’s the worst-case scenario for the American military.

David Gregory: “... depending upon the nature of the strike it will be destabilizing for the region if not lethal for parts of Israel should something like this happen and the reverberations both in terms of nuclear proliferation and U.S. interests...”

And according to The National Post’s Matt Gurney-- Israel isn’t thrilled about leaving it up to the U.S. either. So will Israel actually strike? Gurney says-- the latest reports sound like deja vu.

“Another year, another report saying that U.S. officials are concerned that Israel may be on the verge of launching a pre-emptive strike...Time will tell, of course.”

On Thursday-- Israeli Defense Minister Ehud Barak said publicly-- time is running out to stop Iran from developing its nuclear program.




 

(Image source: Life SiteNews)

BY LOGAN TITTLE

After three days of backlash, America’s largest breast cancer advocacy group announced it is reconsidering previous plans to cut Planned Parenthood funding. Here’s CNN—

“The Susan G. Komen Foundation is in fact going to restore funding to Planned Parenthood…(FLASH)… They’re only going to withhold funding…(FLASH)… if an organization has been found guilty of criminal investigation."

The Financial Times reports the Komen foundation had withdrawn $680,000 in grants for breast cancer screening. A group of U.S. senators sent a signed letter urging the foundation to reconsider, saying—

“It would be tragic if any woman – let alone thousands of women – lost access to these potentially life-saving screenings because of a politically motivated attack”.

Komen CEO Nancy Brinker released a statement on the foundation’s website—

“We want to apologize to the American public for recent decisions that cast doubt upon our commitment to our mission of saving women's lives. The events of this week have been deeply unsettling for our supporters, partners and friends and all of us at Susan G. Komen.”

Planned Parenthood’s president, Cecile Richards posted a positive response to the charity’s turn around.

"We are enormously grateful that the Komen Foundation has clarified its grantmaking criteria.. What these past few days have demonstrated is the deep resolve all Americans share in the fight against cancer, and we honor those who are at the helm of this battle."

The Guardian notes—Though the tie between the two foundations has been restored, the legitimacy of future funding is still weary.

“Though it says that existing funding for Planned Parenthood will be reinstated, it puts a question mark over future funding by saying only that the group will continue to have ‘eligibility to apply for future grants’.”

(Image Source: Conservative Daily News)

BY JIM FLINK

ANCHOR MEGAN MURPHY

Euphoria.

With a healthy dose -- of skepticism.

That’s the reaction to the latest unemployment numbers.

The New York Times has the headline from the Labor Department.

“The private sector remained the engine of new job gains. While federal agencies and local governments continued to lay off workers, private-sector employers added 257,000 jobs in January. The industries with the biggest gains were manufacturing, professional and business services, and leisure and hospitality.”

The jobless rate fell to 8.3 percent -- its lowest rate in three years.

It’s also the fifth straight monthly decline in unemployment -- giving some analysts hope -- this is a sustained economic recovery.

An analyst for Bloomberg says, other numbers tell an even bigger story.

“But we had an enormous increase in the number of people who got jobs in the household survey -- 847 thousand people where unemployment fell by 339 thousand.”

Of course, skeptics will point to the fact, these numbers often get revised.  And -- need more analysis to truly comprehend.

Some CNBC analysts wonder -- if U.S. employers are simply turning a blind eye to the elephant in the room -- the European economy -- which is still in dire straights.

“An now, I don’t even know what we think about Europe after this.”

“No, it’s still in recession.”

“Europe’s got problems.”

“Yeah.”

“But it doesn’t matter to us.”

“Well, Q4’s negative, and Q1’s negative.”

“No, the thing is, there’s no spillover.”

Still -- it should be noted -- the sobriety of some numbers still resonates through the economy.

“There are still 12.8 million people out of work, though that is the fewest since the recession ended. An additional 11 million are either working part-time but would prefer full-time work, or have stopped searching for jobs. When all those groups are combined, nearly 24 million are considered “underemployed.” (The Washington Post)

(Image Source: Wikimedia Commons)

BY MEREDITH BALDWIN

Economic recovery is slow. Spending levels are unsustainable. And the fed is sticking to its current policies of low interest rates. Those are the three main points that Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke’s focused on in his testimony to the House Budget Committee on Thursday. C-SPAN has a clip.

“Although we cannot expect our economy to grow it’s way out of our fiscal imbalances, a more productive economy will ease the trade offs that we face and increase the likelihood that we leave a healthy economy to our children and grandchildren.”

In short, he is urging Congress to not cut deficits too quickly or it will be a mess.  But market analysts aren’t so quick to back Bernanke. An economic correspondent for the Wall Street Journal said he’s not quite sure what Bernanke’s thinking.

“You know, it looks like the economy’s on a more solid track, and yet the Fed is saying ‘we’re going to hold off on raising interest rates even longer than we said before.’ There’s a certain incoherency about this.”

A guest speaker for FOX Business said Bernanke’s take on the market isn’t just incoherent, but wrong.

“He’s trying to pretend that interest rates are rising because the economy’s improving. That’s not the case.”

Bloomberg points out that if interest rates stay low, budget deficits could reach an unprecedented high in the next ten years.

“The deficit would reach $1.5 trillion by 2022, CBO estimated, and the debt would rise to levels unseen since the government was paying off its World War II expenses.”
 

(Image Source: euronews)

BY HARUMENDHAH HELMY

ANCHOR JIM FLINK

This is Newsy Now and here are your latest headlines.

In world news, extreme cold weather in Europe has claimed more than 100 lives in the past week. The death toll in Ukraine alone is 101. euronews says the country is experiencing its coldest winter in six years, with temperatures dropping as low as 33 degree celcius below freezing.
 

“The country’s Emergencies Ministry has set up around 3,000 heated tents to provide shelter for the homeless. Some 64 of the dead were found on the streets.”

 

Still in world news, a former Khmer Rouge official has been sentenced to life in prison after appealing his previous 30-year sentence. The official, better known as Duch, oversaw the deaths of some 15,000 people during Cambodia’s Khmer Rouge regime. Al Jazeera has more details.
 

“Duch’s crimes, the court said, were an affront to all humanity and the Cambodian people in particular. He was in charge of the factory of death at the S-21 torture center, known as Tuol Sleng.”

 

In U.S. news, in a rare act of bipartisanship, the U.S. Senate has passed a bill which would ban insider trading by members of Congress. The bill would also require lawmakers and thousands of executive branch officials to promptly disclose any stock tradings. HLN has more.
 

“One sponsor though said, this means that lawmakers will be subject to the same rules when it comes to stocks, as everybody else.”
 

Still in the U.S., burglars have stolen gold nuggets from a historic collection in a Northern California courthouse. The entire collection is estimated at $3 million — authorities are still figuring out how much was actually stolen. The county has deep gold rush roots, and KTVU talks to one resident who says he’s offended by the crime.
 

“We’ve been violated. All the people. It’s not really the county or the... thing. It’s the people that were violated today.”

Stay with Newsy for more analysis of news thoughout the day.  For newsy now, I’m Jim Flink, highlighting the day’s top headlines, making you smarter, faster.

(Image Source: Wikimedia Commons)

BY ANDREW CARTER

Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban is back! No, he’s not celebrating another NBA Championship. After his Mavs lost Wednesday night Cuban is taking heat for complaining about referees... again. The Washington Post has his statement.

“All I’m saying is some of these guys are bad. Let me rephrase that. Some of these guys are having really bad nights, and it’s having an impact.”

The NBA is playing a shortened season after the summer’s lockout. And Yahoo! Sports’ Kelly Dwyer writes -- that might be partly to blame for the ‘questionable’ refereeing.

“For one, scores of veteran referees retired before the 2011-12 season even started, creating an influx of younger referees. ... Secondly, the sheer amount of games that the NBA has greedily mashed together is forcing the referees to officiate even more games than the players are playing.”

And NBC Sports says -- for that -- Mark Cuban has no one to blame but himself.

“Here’s the thing — this is on Cuban and the owners. They locked everyone out and then pushed for a condensed 66-game schedule so they could make their money back.”

Cuban has been fined more than $1 million since he bought the Mavs -- largely for negative comments towards referees.

In an ESPN poll -- 79% of fans believe Cuban will once again be fined by the league.

The referees working the game Wednesday were veteran referees, but analysts on ESPN say- Cuban may have a point.

“The standard that I am accustomed to seeing these same officials perform year after year after year, they seem a bit rusty this year. Can we agree on that? I’ll agree on that. Alright fine, then that’s good.”

The high stress of a condensed season may be taking its toll on coaches too.

Mavericks coach Rick Carlisle was ejected from Wednesday’s game after kicking the basketball into the stands. Carlisle said he was aiming for the referees, but added he is not a good kicker.

BY BRIAN LEWIS

ANCHOR CHRISTIAN BRYANT

(Image Source: http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Honda-Civic-hybrid.jpg)

It was a big day in small claims court this week when a California Honda owner won her case against the automaker. CNN has the story.

“Heather Peters was awarded just under $10,000 yesterday. She claims she was misled by Honda’s claim that its Civic hybrid could get 50 miles per gallon.”

To go it alone in small claims court, the Honda owner, who’s a former attorney, had to opt out of a large class action suit against the automaker. Time’s Moneyland blog breaks down the settlement she rejected.

“In a proposed class-action settlement against Honda, Civic Hybrid owners would receive $100 to $200, plus a $1,000 credit toward the purchase of a new car. Trial lawyers, on the other hand, stand to pull in $8.5 million.”

Jalopnik offers one reason why this court victory is unique – no lawyers were involved.

“Unlike a class-action lawsuit, small claims court usually allows an individual to file a complaint without having to hire an attorney. In the case of L.A. County, for instance, even Honda wasn't allowed to use a lawyer in court.”

Law blog Above the Law covered the story when the suit was filed, and offered kudos to Peters for taking the fight away from the lawyers.

“Sounds like a typical class action to me. Fat stacks for counsel, peanuts for the plaintiffs. … It will be interesting to see if Peters’s case is at all effective. Will it blow the lid off a new method of suing large companies?”

If this is the start of a trend, a former prosecutor tells CBS it could become a huge bleed on the auto industry.

“It starts with this one ten thousand dollar judgment. But when others file and hundreds of thousands of people file, it could end up in the billions of dollars.”

Honda plans to appeal in a court where they are allowed to use lawyers. They argue the Environmental Protection Agency comes up with the mileage estimates, not the auto company.

(Image Source: Wikimedia Commons)

BY ALYSSA CARTEE
ANCHOR LAUREN GORES

It was a move that divided two women’s health giants and their supporters. News broke Tuesday that cancer research and awareness organization Susan G. Komen pulled its grant funding from Planned Parenthood.

Late Wednesday night the organization’s Founder Nancy Brinker posted a video on YouTube defending the decision.

“Recently, we implemented new granting strategies and criteria that some have regrettably mischaracterized.”

Brinker explains, Komen’s policy includes not providing money to organizations under investigation.
Planned Parenthood has been under investigation since September by a Florida Republican Representative about the organization’s use of taxpayer dollars.

But many are criticizing Komen’s move as purely political. CBS reports a recent hire at Komen has some of those critics asking more questions.

“Komen’s new Vice President for policy is a politician from Georgia who has run in the past on an anti-abortion platform and that leads some to wonder whether her hiring explains the timing of this move.”

MSNBC spoke with a Democratic Congresswoman who says the policy Komen created will hurt the cancer awareness organization in the long run.

REP. JACKIE SPIERER: “Where Susan G. Komen is going is a very slippery slope. Because for instance NIH is called to Congress often to explain certain things when investigations are done. Komen gives a million dollars to the NIH. Are they going to cut back that funding?”

But a Fox News analyst says the decision is Komen’s to make whether people like it or not.

“I think that organizations in America, charitable foundations, health organizations, they have the right to make a determination about how and where they’re giving money.”

A blogger for the Washington Post points out Komen’ position seems to have helped Planned Parenthood.

“Planned Parenthood … has reportedly already raised $250,000 on news of Komen’s decision. And it will likely end up recouping its losses quickly.”

Planned Parenthood says it received $680,000 in Komen grants last year.

(Image Source: USA Today)

BY ORLA O MUIRI

ANCHOR MEGAN MURPHY

He never threw a punch -- but he was known across the boxing world as one of its all-time greats. He coached one of the greatest fighter’s ever -- Muhammad Ali. The iconic trainer Angelo Dundee died this week. ESPN has more on the legendary man in the corner.
 

“He was a teacher, trainer and tactition. He motivated men like Ali, George Foreman and Sugar Ray Leonard. In fact Leonard said about Dundee, quote; “in the heat of a fight there is no one better to have in your corner than Angelo.”

Dundee was best known for his relationship with Ali- a three time heavyweight champion. According to theage.com....
 

“Ali signed with Dundee in 1960 after culminating his amateur career with the light-heavyweight gold medal at that year's Olympic Games in Rome. Four years later, Ali became the second-youngest heavyweight champion, beating Sonny Liston.”

Dundee was Ali’s coach and trainer for some of boxing’s biggest fights ever -- the ‘Thrilla in Manila’ and the ‘Rumble in the Jungle.’ WLKY notes, as high profile as those two fights were, it was behind the scenes where Dundee really came to life...
 

“His visibility on the major stages were minute compared to where he did his real work.
In cold, empty boxing rings -- away from the cameras and commentators -- Dundee worked to not only train his boxers to be the best, he convinced them they could be.”

Dundee was 90 years old -- his career lasted six decades. In an interview before his death with the BBC, Dundee wanted to help boxing flourish, just as it did when he was ringside.
 

“You can’t live on the memory, you live for today.... boxing is a great sport and I want to see it flourish like it did when I had a great time with Muhammad and Ray Leonard.”

(Image Source: Residence in Phoenix Airport)

BY BLAKE HANSON

A new report out from the Associated Press reveals the U.S. no-fly list has more than doubled in the past year -- and that’s got media outlets asking: how’d that happen? Fox News Radio has more...

“The secret list of suspected terrorists banned from flying in the U.S. has more than doubled in the past year, jumping from 10,000 names to about 21,000.”

So why’d it double? Newser points to December 2009...

“The list has been growing at a quick clip ever since the failed Christmas 2009 ‘underwear bomber’ plot, after which the government lowered the standards required to place people on the list. The new standards would have ensured that would-be bomber Umar Farouk Abdulmutallab was on the list…”

So how’s all this play into the so-called “War on Terror”? The Global Post writes...

“The news comes despite the Obama administration’s claims that it is close to beating Al Qaeda.  
However, according to the AP story the government ‘believes the current terror threat extends well beyond the group responsible for the September 2001 attacks.’”

Meanwhile, KCRA has reaction from some travelers -- and a not-so-happy American Civil Liberties Union...

TRAVELER: “There’s a lot of stuff the government does to keep us safe, we may disagree at certain times but some of this stuff is kind of necessary.”
REPORTER: “The ACLU is not happy about the growing list, they believe more rights are being violated because anyone’s name could be placed on the list without an explanation.”

As of Thursday morning, the TSA had not responded to the AP report -- but on its website calls the No Fly list a quote “essential element of the aviation security.” 

(Image source: The White House)

BY ZACH TOOMBS

It’s been talked about for months, but Wednesday marked the official Capitol Hill introduction for a proposed Buffett Rule — a law that would require millionaires to pay at least a 30 percent tax rate. Democratic Rhode Island Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse proposed the bill.

“With all the advantages that do come an enormous income, paying a lower tax rate than regular working families should not be one of those advantages.”

Investor Warren Buffett breathed life into the concept of a millionaire surtax last fall. But the bill’s official name, the Paying a Fair Share Act, borrows not too subtly from President Obama’s own language — much of it coming from last week’s State of the Union address.


“Fair shot...”

“Fair share...”

“Fair share of taxes...”

“Fair play...”

“Fair share of taxes...”

Republican Representative Paul Ryan provided a response to the president’s call for higher taxes on millionaires on Fox News Sunday, telling Chris Wallace the so-called Buffett Rule would only make a small dent in reducing the federal deficit.

“Let’s just look at the math. All these tax increases that the president’s talking about? They only cover 8 percent of his proposed spending increases. The other 92 percent of the nation’s spending increases are borrowed money.”

POLITICO notes, even if the bill doesn’t pass, it still highlights economic inequality — an issue that is sure to be an election year talking point for Democrats.

“Whitehouse’s legislation is almost certain to go nowhere in this Congress: Republicans generally abhor higher taxes and the Senate was unable to clear bills containing a millionaire’s surtax multiple times last year. But the bill could be a messaging tool for Democrats in this election year – particularly amid revelations that former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney paid an effective tax rate of 14 percent in 2010.”

But on CNN’s Out Front, Sen. Whitehouse says the bill was not a political maneuver, but rather a piece of legislation that has a chance of passing through Congress.

“If it has difficulty passing on its own, bear in mind that at the end of this year all of the Bush tax cuts expire, and that’s going to motivate everyone in Washington to rethink tax policy.”

On the Senate floor Wednesday, Whitehouse also noted that Americans making between $1 million and $2 million annually would be phased in to the 30 percent tax rate to avoid what he called “a tax cliff.” As of yet, no date is set for a vote on the legislation.

(Image source: Diet in Details)

BY ZAKIYYAH WAHAB

ANCHOR LAUREN ZIMA

Three professors from the University of California in San Francisco say sugar is toxic and should be regulated.  According to SkyNews, the professors propose...

“...adding taxes to processed foods that contain any form of added sugar...”

Other measures they suggest include:

“....controlling access ... such as age limits for purchase of sugary drinks, and tightening controls on vending machines and snack bars in schools and workplaces...”

Dr. Robert Lustig is one of the researchers calling for regulation.  He says has obese patients as young as six months old and says this is not because of a lack of exercise. As he tells UCSF News,

“...sugar has very specific effects that drive these phenomenon, that drive in some resistance, that drive excessive consumption...”

According to Nature.com, per Capita, Americans eat more sugar than just about anyone in the world.  More than 600 calories per day.

And according to the researchers’ findings, 

“Health problems due to excessive alcohol consumption such as hypertension and pancreatitis are also found in excessive sugar consumption.”

Not everyone agrees.  The Guardian reports that in response to the researchers’ suggestions, a spokesperson from Sugar Nutrition UK says,

“...expert committees, including … the European Food Safety Authority and the World Health Organisation …  have concluded that ... available evidence does not implicate sugar at the level currently consumed in any of the ‘lifestyle diseases’ such as obesity...”

Australian health experts also do not completely agree with the toxic sugar findings. Life Hacker reports, that,

“... casting sugar as the ultimate villain and calling for regulation is misleading, unfounded and unnecessary.”

But back in states, the San Francisco sugar researchers disagree.  They hope the U.S. Food and Drug Administration will consider removing sugar from its “generally regarded as safe list.”

(Image source: eBay)

BY DAVID EARL

President Obama has Air Force One, Marine One -- and Limo One. But what about a car he used to tool around in before becoming commander-in-chief? That’s a different kind of one.

“The price for history is not cheap...if you’re interested, it’ll cost you $1 million dollars. What?”

The car is up on eBay and the seller claims he’s got the title to back up the *first* owner. CNN reports Mr. Obama’s old car isn’t necessarily a beater...

“It’s a top-of-the-line Chrysler 300C with a powerful V8 engine. Basically what it is … it’s like a luxury hot rod.”

But a blogger for the Wall Street Journal isn’t impressed.

“Even with confirmation, the car doesn’t seem particularly attractive in part because there is no great story behind it. Obama is not known to be a car guy, so it is unlikely that he spent long hours in the garage changing the oil or modifying the Hemi engine for more horsepower.”

As a matter of fact, Right This Minute points out, Mr. Obama didn’t even like it enough to buy it...

“He leased the car when it had just 2 miles on it in July of 2004 and drove it until 2007, shortly before he was elected President of the United States.”

And it looks like, for a million bucks, no one else likes it enough to buy it either. There hasn’t been a single bid for the car. But the Chicago Tribune points out a princely price tag isn’t necessarily unprecedented.

“To assert that the ‘$1 million asking price is not a joke,’ the listing cites the $8 million once fetched for Adolf Hitler's Mercedes, the $690,000 for Pope John Paul II's 1975 Ford Escort and the $113,000 for the ‘Bartman baseball’ at the center of the Cubs 2003 playoff collapse against the Florida Marlins.”

Chrysler sold more than 140,000 300s in model year 2005, and the Kelly Blue Book Value for a 2005 Chrysler 300C? Between $14,000 and $17,000.
 

(Image Source: WPEC)

BY LAUREN ZIMA

In a move a judge calls “unprecedented” and “a legal twilight zone,” a wealthy Florida man is being accused of adopting his girlfriend to protect his money.

48-year-old John Goodman, founder of the International Polo Club Palm Beach, is accused of running a stop sign and hitting 23-year-old Scott Wilson’s car in 2010. Wilson later died from those injuries, and his family is suing Goodman for wrongful death. The civil trial is set for March.

But now -- a new complaint from Wilson’s family. WPTV reports.

“Goodman has adopted his 42-year-old girlfriend, Heather Hutchins. The six-page document says Goodman made the move to divert a portion of his assets.”

The New York Daily News explains …

“[Goodman] filed the paperwork to adopt … Hutchins in October, legally entitling her to a third of the assets in a trust fund he set up for his two biological children.”

The Palm Beach Post explains because she is over 35, Hutchins is entitled to her share of that trust immediately. The paper also has Goodman’s side.

“ … Goodman’s civil attorney ... said Hutchins’ adoption was done to ensure the future stability of his children and family investments. ‘It has nothing to do with the lawsuit currently pending against him’ …”

So, will the adoption hold? WPEC spoke with an adoption attorney -- who says the move is ...

“Both awful and brilliant. ... This was an effort to carve out some of that money to be able to be used by him and his girlfriend to support their lifestyle.”

Fox News panelists debate -- calling the adoption “despicable” -- but smart.

“Morally despicable.”
“Repugnant.”
“It’s horrible, but you now have to remember -- we’re lawyers.”

Authorities say Goodman was driving with a blood-alcohol level two times above the legal limit the night of the accident. He also faces a criminal trial in March on charges of vehicular homicide, DUI manslaughter and leaving the scene of a crime. Goodman has pleaded not guilty.

(Image Source: Flickr/Eddie S)

BY HARUMENDHAH HELMY

ANCHOR JIM FLINK

In world news, public anger in Egypt after more than 70 people die in a soccer tragedy. Some Egyptians are blaming government security forces for failing to protect civilians.  Eyewitnesses say they saw police officers standing idly by as the violent clashes broke out. One NBC correspondent says the incident highlights one of Egypt’s biggest problems.
 

“...many people have lost confidence in the police and the security forces in being able to keep any kind of law and order. And when they try to do that, it often turns violent and angers and fuels more protests, so it is a very precarious situation.”
 

Still in world news, a ferry sinks off Papua New Guinea’s east coast with as many as 350 people on board. Rescuers have recovered more than 200 survivors. Reports say most of the passengers were students and teachers’ trainees. Here’s KING.
 

“This picture shows ships and helicopters are on the scene. So far officials say 238 people have been rescued. Right now it's unclear what caused the ferry to sink.”
 

In U.S. news, Mitt Romney’s Wednesday morning gaffe on CNN is still getting backlash. In an interview with Soledad O’Brien, the GOP presidential hopeful says he was, quote - ‘not concerned about the very poor.’ He has since clarified the remarks -- but his opponents aren’t missing the opportunity to attack. Here’s CNN, with Newt Gingrich on the campaign trail.

Gingrich: “I am running to be the president of all the American people, and I am concerned about all of the American people.”
 

Still in U.S. news, it’s Groundhog Day! Punxsutawney Phil saw his shadow, and according to folklore, that means there will be six more weeks of winter. Fox News has that clip - with some in the audience booing the groundhog for a prediction he can’t even help! Come on guys - it’s not Phil’s fault.
 

Punxsutawney gentleman: “...many shadows do I see -- six more weeks of winter it must be.”
Audience: [cheering and booing]


Stay with Newsy for more analysis on news throughout the day.  For Newsy Now, I’m Jim Flink, highlighting the day’s top headlines to make you smarter, faster.
 

(Image Source: The Daily Mail)

BY JENNIFER LONG

A California man is stunned by a new leash law in a national park – literally. KCBS explains.

“The man who was tasered by a ranger with the national service has been identified as Gary Hesterberg of Montara. The confrontation apparently began because Hesterberg had one of his dogs off leash.”

The park was privately owned until last December and residents say they were used to walking their dogs off leash there. The Belmont Patch has a statement from the Golden Gate National Recreation area saying the incident …

“...began as a ‘routine educational contact’ on the rules regarding dog walking but grew into a more serious situation when the dog walker provided false information to the ranger and refused the ranger's repeated orders to remain at the scene while his identity was confirmed.”

The ranger then stunned Hesterberg in the back as he walked away. But was a Taser stun gun an appropriate use of force in the incident? Founder of the local Montara Dog Blog says …

"There is total outrage about this. Everyone thinks this is a total excessive use of force … I hope this guy hires an attorney because I think he's got a strong case.”

And The Daily Mail breaks down the powers of a park ranger.

“Any park ranger is considered a peace officer just like any police officer, corrections officer or officer of any court with full law enforcement powers. … Enforcement Rangers suffer the most number of felonious assaults, and the highest number of homicides of all federal law enforcement officers.”

A writer for Examiner concludes both parties were probably at fault.

“Walking two small dogs off leash hardly equates with someone walking up a park trail with a loaded firearm, but how well one passes the ‘personality test’ if approached by a ranger could make a lot of difference in the long run. … in San Francisco, both parties failed the test.”

The ranger remains on duty while the National Park Service conducts an investigation.

(Image source: CNNMoney)

BY DAVID EARL

ANCHOR CHRISTINA HARTMAN

The deal that would have forged the world’s largest stock exchange is officially dead. Euronews has the headline.

“Competition regulators in Brussels have blocked a merger that would have created the world’s biggest stock exchange. Deutsche Boerse and NYSE Euronext say they will now unwind the deal.”

Leading up to Wednesday’s announcement, the head of EU’s Competition Commission told Bloomberg the deal between US-based NYSE and German exchange Deutsche Boerse was anything but done...

“My conclusion is that some problems of competition will not be solved by this merger, but will be aggravated.”

In fact, Fox Business quotes EU officials coming out with some pretty harsh antitrust descriptions for the deal. According to one of them...

“The merger between Deutsche Boerse and NYSE Euronext would have led to a near-monopoly in European financial derivatives worldwide. These markets are at the heart of the financial system and it is crucial for the whole European economy that they remain competitive.”

You can guess the head of Germany’s flagship exchange wasn’t too pleased to hear the news. A German TV station has the soundbite...

“This is a black day for Europe and its future competitiveness on world financial markets.”

And a financial reporter for the BBC seems to agree.

“Where are these stock exchanges going to go? There’s a feeling that when you’re talking about a global market you have to be globally competitive and you have to be big.”

At least one person on the US-side of the pond likes the deal’s death. The familiar name in national politics, big-city real estate, and prime-time reality TV talks to CNBC....

Donald Trump: “The New York Stock Exchange should be this country...I’m very happy to see it, Becky, I think it’s a good thing for the country.”

This is the latest merger to fall through for America’s oldest exchange. Back in April, rival NASDAQ attempted and failed at a hostile takeover of the NYSE.

(Image Source: Planned Parenthood) 
 

BY GILLIAN STEDMAN


Well-known breast cancer charity the Susan G. Komen Foundation, is racing away from Planned Parenthood. WFAA in Dallas says...

“Susan G. Komen and Planned Parenthood are cutting ties.  Last year Komen donated $680,000 for breast cancer screenings, but the charity has a new policy barring grants to organizations under investigation.”

A recently formed congressional committee is investigating Planned Parenthood on how it spends funds. But Planned Parenthood isn’t buying the Komen foundation’s reasoning. KMSP reports ...

“Officials with Planned Parenthood argued the move is connected to the hot button debate over abortion.”

CBS News quotes Planned Parenthood President Cecile Richards.

“We are alarmed and saddened that the Susan G. Komen for the Cure Foundation appeared to have succumbed to political pressure. Our greatest desire is to reconsider this policy and recommit to the partnership on which so many women count.”

And WRAL has a statement from Komen.

“While it is regrettable when changes in priorities and policies affect any of our grantees, such as a long-standing partner like Planned Parenthood, we must continue to evolve to best meet the needs of the women we serve and most fully advance our mission.”

The Komen cuts are in effect, and will Planned Parenthood be hurt financially? The Hill reported Wednesday -- maybe not -- an online campaign in wake of the Komen news raised $400,000 for Planned Parenthood in 24 hours.

“More than 6,000 people have donated, Planned Parenthood said. … ‘People respond powerfully when they see politics interfering with women’s health’ …”
 

(Image Source: LALate)

BY LAUREN ZIMA

Don Cornelius -- the creator of ‘Soul Train’ -- died Wednesday at the age of 75 after an apparent suicide. WFAA reports.

“Los Angeles police say he shot himself at his home on Mulholland Drive. Soul Train began in 1970 as a local show in Chicago and was syndicated nationally for three decades. No word on what might have prompted the suicide.”

KDFW says Cornelius hosted the show until 1993, and ‘Soul Train’ stopped filming in 2006. But, the station reports, Cornelius seemed to have plans for the future.

“Cornelius recently announced he was working on a movie project focusing on things that really happened on the show and exploring the program’s creation.”

Celebrity reactions poured in after the news hit. WSVN has a few:

“Reverend Al Sharpton saying, ‘I’m shocked and grief-stricken by the reported suicide of Don Cornelius of Soul Train. I’ve known him since I was 19 years old.’ Ice Cube Tweets, ‘Rest in peace. Love & Soul ... Don Cornelius.’”

And media are posting in-memoriams, too. Most wrote of Cornelius and the show as one and the same -- the show’s impact was his, and vice-versa. The Washington Post says of Soul Train ...

“It was a highlight of the week. And it’s all thanks to Don Cornelius, who introduced us to the latest music and fashion.”

And The New York Daily News says the show was “his show.”

“Don Cornelius brought color to American television — in every sense of the term. … ‘Soul Train’ made as deep, and beloved, an impression on audiences for what it looked like as what it sounded like.”

Though media reports indicate the death appears to be a suicide-- The Los Angeles Times explains, police are still investigating.

“Officials said it probably will take several days to make a final determination about the death … they stressed it will take days to fully investigate, including interviewing friends and family and examining evidence …”

(Image Source: Newsy Staff)
 

BY XIAONAN WANG

ANCHOR CHRISTINA HARTMAN

Mitt Romney’s win in the Florida primary gives him a solid lead in the GOP race. But his heavy spending on attack ads drew criticism.

On Fox News -- Sarah Palin describes an uphill battle for Romney’s opponents.

Palin: “It was very, very difficult for Newt Gingrich and the other candidates to counter that bombardment of advertisements.”

It wasn’t just Romney that ran aggressive ads. The New York Times reported nearly all of the ads run in Florida leading up to the primary were negative. An op-ed writer for the Digital Journal says this is a regrettable new norm.

“Romney had outspent Gingrich by $16 million in attack ads, proving that lies, viciousness and negativity works more to manipulate the average American voter than what the candidate simply has to offer. ”

On MSNBC, former Republican National Committee chairman Michael Steele says the negative ads might be a useful tactic in the short run, but they don’t actually add anything to Romney’s campaign.

“16 million dollars on negative advertising, not about promoting a positive message for the future of the country, what he is gonna do as a president, but what he is gonna do to take down Newt Gingrich.”

But it wasn’t just advertising that won the race. An analyst tells CNN Gingrich wasn’t expecting a bolder Romney at the debate podium.

“He expected a Mitt Romney to come who was the same Mitt Romney. Mitt Romney finally decided in Florida to play to win and not play to lose.”

Amid the criticism, conservative pundit Rush Limbaugh says attack ads are here to stay -- and he’s sick of hearing people whine about it.

Rush: “What in the world is POLITICS! What is it, if not this. ”

The next stop of the campaign is Nevada and Maine. Romney won both states in the 2008 contests.

(Image source: FeministsForChoice.com)

BY MEREDITH BALDWIN

ANCHOR MEGAN MURPHY

Pharmaceutical company Pfizer is recalling more than a million packs of birth control. Here’s Bloomberg:

 “Good Morning! And if you’ve been taking birth control pills you might want to go buy a pregnancy test instead.”

The pill order is mixed up in the packs -- and The Today Show talked with a doctor who explains.

“What has happened is there has been a mix up so that some of the inactive pills have been placed where the active pills are and vice a versa -- they’re not quite sure.”

The company is telling women affected it’s crucial they start using a non-hormonal type of contraceptive protection immediately. Pfizer blames a packaging problem --- saying that even though the pills are safe, they aren’t effective in preventing pregnancy. WPTV explains which pills are problematic.

 “The problem affects 14 lots of Lo-Orval and 14 lots of the generic Norgestrel and Ethinyl Estradiol tablets.”

The Pfizer recall comes just months after another major recall affecting birth control packaging. Here’s TIME on what happened then:

 “This is the second major contraceptive recall in less than six months. In September, Qualitest Pharmaceuticals recalled 1.4 million birth control pills because of a different packaging error.”

But Jezebel points out one plus side of the Pfizer name being behind the recall.

 “So instead of calling them ‘birth control pills,’ it might be more accurate to refer to them as ‘one-a-day useless hormone candy.’ … lucky for you, Pfizer also makes pregnancy tests.”

(Image Source: New York Times)

(Image Source: Flickr/jam_90s)

BY HARUMENDHAH HELMY

ANCHOR JIM FLINK

This is Newsy Now, and here are your latest headlines.
 

In world news, four British nationals have admitted to plotting al-Qaeda-inspired bomb attacks on the U.S. embassy and the Stock Exchange in London. The men were arrested in December 2010, after being put under surveillance. The BBC reports on one damning piece of evidence that was found in one of the men’s apartments: a handwritten list.

“On that list were the names and addresses of the Mayor of London, Boris Johnson, and two rabbis. As well as the words ‘American embassy’ and the initials LXC.”
 

In U.S. news, GOP presidential hopeful Mitt Romney won what some have called a ‘resounding victory’ in the Florida primary Tuesday night. He had 46 percent of the votes, while runner-up Newt Gingrich had just 32 percent. On CNN, Florida Governor Rick Scott offers his analysis on why Romney came out on top.
 

“What Florida voters want, is they want a president that’s going to focus on reducing taxes, reducing regulations and gear our economy back to work. And last night, Governor Romney was that candidate.”
 

In tech news, sources familiar with the topic say Facebook could file for IPO as early as this morning. The company reportedly will file plans to raise $5 billion. It has picked Morgan Stanley to lead the process. Bloomberg talks to a venture capitalist who says once the documents are released, he’ll be looking for data on Facebook’s monetization per user.
 

“Because Facebook has an immense amount of traffic. Over 10 percent of the Internet traffic now, but how quickly that continues to grow as they grow their user base. They are already at 800 million people, and there are so many people on the planet...”
 

Finally, in health news, Pfizer is recalling one million packets of birth control pills. The company says the pills might not contain enough contraceptive to prevent pregnancy. KNXV has the details.
 

“The problem affects Lo/Ovral-28, and generic Norgestrel, and also Ethinyl Estradiol. ... the affected packets have expiration dates between July 31, 2013 to March 31, 2014.”



Stay with Newsy for more news analyses throughout the day. For Newsy Now, I’m ___, highlighting the top headlines making you smarter, faster.

BY SCOTT MACDONALD

ANCHOR LAUREN ZIMA

Authorities in Los Angeles County say a teacher bound and molested dozens of young students at a Los Angeles elementary school. Here’s KABC.

“61-year-old Mark Berndt was arrested today on 23 counts of child molestation, accused of gagging children, putting live cockroaches on some of their faces, and posing in photos with them ...”

Forty such photos were turned over to police by a film-processing employee in January 2011. Although Berndt was immediately removed from his job, it took a year before the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department was able to arrest and charge him. The Washington Post has more on the evidence.

“Sheriff’s Lt. Carlos Marquez of the Special Victims Bureau said it was determined the children were given semen on a spoon or on a cookie. A blue plastic spoon and container found in [the] trash in Berndt’s classroom tested positive for semen, the sheriff’s statement said.

KCAL reports Berndt may have been pretending to “play a game” with the students -- and that police say no student ever reported abuse.

“Police say Berndt worked at Miramonte for 30 years, and that he committed the acts on at least 23 students ages 7 to 10 between 2008 and 2010.”

The Los Angeles Times reports several parents spoke of Berndt as a teacher they trusted and befriended.

“Parents had so much trust in Berndt, a fixture at the school, that they invited him to birthday parties and stayed in touch long after their children left his class. He was the sort of teacher who’d be invited to quinceañeras — coming-of-age parties for girls, a tradition in the Latino community.”

Both Martin Sandoval, the school principal, and John Deasy, the district superintendent, spoke out today. The two had been prevented by police from commenting until charges were filed. Here’s Deasy on KNX 1070 radio.

“It’s despicable. I’m not his lawyer, nor am I a lawyer, so I don’t have to watch what I say — I find it absolutely despicable. It’s why I removed him instantly.”

According to the warrant released by the Sheriff’s Department, Mark Berndt faces 15 years to life for each of the 23 charges.

 

(Image Source: Peter Alfred Hess)

BY LEAH BECERRA

ANCHOR ZACH TOOMBS

Apple’s hired a new guy to head up its retail arm. That guy is John Browett. His most recent job was leading Europe’s second largest electronics retailer, Dixons. CNBC brings us up to speed.

“David, I was trying to explain to my colleagues earlier on an answer to their question what Dixons was, and I know it owns Currys and a number of other retail chains, but the best I could come up with was that it was a poor man’s Best Buy.”

But tech analysts are at odds over whether Browett is the right man for the job. Apple CEO Tim Cook says he hired the Dixons CEO because of his commitment to customer service, but a Computerworld blogger notes-- Browett’s record in that area doesn’t look so great.

“According to Trustpilot, a customer review website, Dixons garnered a score of 4 out of 10, while Currys rated a 4.5...Apple, meanwhile, scored an 8...”

And besides customer reviews-- a Forbes blogger says Apple should be concerned with Dixons’ poor stock performance under Browett’s leadership.

“Dixons Retail stock and performance have not exactly been triumphant...Is this the first misstep, the post-Jobs vulnerability some feared, and for which others – speculators and Apple-bashers alike – hoped?”

But for all the speculation about Browett’s chances at success-- a reporter for The Guardian says-- the hire isn’t as “jaw-dropping” as some analysts seem to think it is.

“If you don't stare too long at the share price, Dixons' tale is one of survival in hellish trading conditions and in the midst of an online assault led by Amazon. Best Buy, the US invader, was seen off, an achievement that may have brought Browett to the notice of Apple's bigwigs."

Browett will begin his new job as the Senior VP of Retail for Apple in April.

(Image Source: Post Crescent)

BY DAVID EARL

One World Trade Center. It’s the new anchor of lower Manhattan and a national icon -- rising from the ashes of 9/11. When it’s completed, it’ll be the tallest building in the United States.  But The Wall Street Journal reports the tower once named Freedom, is adding $700 million to its price tag....

“...which brings it to about $3.8 billion, which would make it by far the world’s most expensive office tower. More than the Burj Dubai.”

But The Huffington Post points out -- there are some key differences between the building costs of One World Trade Center and the Burj Dubai.

“ [The Burj Dubai] was built with migrant labor and without nearly as many security concerns.”

The tower has signed some A-list tenants -- like Conde Nast and international law firm Chadbourne & Parke. But WCBS says they might not be able to move into their new digs when their lease begins at the Port Authority owned building.

“Now the Port Authority has discovered that the loading docks underneath the building won’t be ready in time for its tenants, and will have to spend millions more on temporary ones.”

With costs ballooning, the New York Post says an audit is on the way.  

“1 WTC is a project with a purpose: to provide state-of-the-art office facilities in a city desperately in need of them. But news of a rushed change in plans as the tower nears its 104-story height is the last thing the embattled [Port Authority], facing a scathing audit, needs.”

At least one person doesn’t find the skyrocketing skyscraper costs surprising.  Former New York City Mayor Rudy Guiliani tells Fox News the World Trade Center had a history of being a burden on budgets.

“It was rarely ever full, and it was operating on a hundred million dollar -- basically -- New York City tax subsidy.”

1 World Trade Center is expected to open in 2013.

(Image source: The Boston Globe)

BY ZACH TOOMBS

A bill put forward by Republican Massachusetts Sen. Scott Brown aims to stop insider trading in Congress and the executive branch. And the proposal is finding few opponents on either side of the aisle.

Brown explained the need for his bill Monday on the Senate floor.

“With the bill before us today, we can take a small step to re-establishing the trust between the American people and Congress.”

Brown says it was a CBS 60 Minutes investigation last fall that prompted him to propose the new measure, called the Stop Trading on Congressional Knowledge, or STOCK, Act.

“If you are a member of Congress, and you are on the Defense Committee, you are free to trade defense stock as much as you want to. If you are on the Senate Banking Committee, you can trade bank stock as much as you want. And that regularly goes on.”

Brown introduced the proposal two months ago, but it wasn’t until President Obama highlighted Congressional insider trading in his State of the Union address that the bill gained traction. An exchange between Brown and Obama caught on camera after the speech might explain why.

BROWN: “The Insider Trading Bill is on Harry (Reid)’s desk right now. Tell him to get it ready. It’s already there.”

OBAMA: “I’m going to tell him. I’m going to tell him to get it done.”

But the bill’s effects are complicated. The use of insider information in making financial decisions is already illegal -- but laws focus on the private sector, not information gained through Congressional matters. CNN’s John King tells us what’s in the bill.

“Any member of Congress or their staff must report transactions within 30 days. Make sure insider trading laws apply to members of Congress. That’s the most ‘big duh’ to most people, but OK. And bars the use of non-public information for personal gain.”

The Huffington Post writes the measure would allow regulatory agencies and the Justice Department to prosecute any member of Congress who violates it. Despite broad bi-partisan support for the bill, Brown’s critics aren’t entirely pleased with his proposal. The Boston Globe writes:

“One of Brown’s Democratic opponents in this year’s US Senate race, Elizabeth Warren, has voiced support for a proposed Democratic amendment that would go even further, banning members of Congress form owning any stocks in the industries over which they have jurisdiction, citing Brown’s investments in Exxon-Mobil and Bank of America.”

This week, Brown boasted the bill might have set a legislative speed record -- it was introduced Nov. 15, and the Senate chose to move to a full vote Monday. As of yet, no date is set for a vote in the House.

(Image Source: ITN)

BY EMILY ALLEN

ANCHOR ANA COMPAIN-ROMERO

Doctors at Peru’s Las Mercedes Hospital made a peculiar diagnosis recently for a three year old toddler with a bellyache.   It turns out the child’s twin brother was in his stomach.  Here is KSTP.

“The partially formed fetus weighs 1.5 pounds, nine inches, I think long. Has a brain, heart and lungs but they never developed. It does have hair, eyes and apparently some bones as well.”

The condition is called fetus-in-fetu. Medical Daily explains it’s ...

“ … a rare condition when a fetus absorbs his twin sibling inside the womb when an egg fails to fully separate, and happens approximately once out of every 500,000 live births …”

ITN reports the fetus was removed Monday. 

“And even though it doesn’t have a heart, brain or lungs, it does have a backbone and its living off Isbac’s blood.”

But, ABC talked to a neonatologist and his comments dispute ITN’s report. He says conjoined twins can live as parasites …

“But for fetus-in-fetu, the body of one twin envelops the other during development.
‘In this kind of situation, because it was inside the other boy, it wasn’t able to survive,’ [he] said.”

And Inquisitr notes there are benefits to studying the toddler’s condition.

“Parasitic twins are the link between conjoined twins and healthy twins and should be studied further.  In knowing how their formation process occurs it may be possible to limit the occurrence in the womb and avoid the complication to the healthy twin after birth.”

International Business News said it took doctors more than three hours to remove the fetus.   Doctors say the toddler is expected to live a normal life.

 

(Image Source: WikiCommons)

BY BRIAN LEWIS

ANCHOR LAUREN ZIMA

Mitt Romney may be the frontrunner in Florida, but he’s strictly backup vocals when compared to President Obama.  At least that’s what the pundits are saying after this video of the Republican hopeful singing “America the Beautiful” surfaced Monday.
 

Mitt Romney: “Oh, beautiful for spacious skies for amber waves of grain. For purple mountains majesty...” (Video source: C-SPAN)

Gawker media blog Jezebel had this to say about Mitt’s performance:

“Have you ever wondered what it looks like to lose a presidential election in two minutes or less? This video is your answer.”

The Washington Post’s Opinions blog echoed that sentiment:

“If the November election were a sing-off, the Obamas wouldn’t have to bother hunting for moving boxes.”

Why are the media being so hard on Romney for his musical abilities -- or lack thereof? After all he’s a politician-- not a singer. Well, the answer may be that he’s competing against this:

President Obama: “And then to know that Reverand Al Green was here.  … I'm so in love with you…those guys didn’t think I would do it.”
 

(Video Source: CBS)

Still, Romney can at least carry a tune, which is more than you can say for other political figures the world over. Take Venezuela's Hugo Chavez, who often sings during his marathon TV appearances in that country.

Chavez: Translation - “I’m not loved by Hillary Clinton and I don’t love her either.”

(Video Source: BBC)

Or Vladimir Putin singing Blueberry Hill on TV:

Putin: “I found my thrills on blueberry hill.  On blueberry hill.  When I found you.  The moon stood still, on blueberry hill.”

(Video Source: RT.com)

All of whom could learn a thing or two from former Attorney General and Singing Senator John Ashcroft, who’ll take us out:

Ashcroft: “Let the eagle soar…like she’s never soared before…From rocky coast to golden shore, let the mighty eagle soar.”

(Video Source: WBTV)

(Image source: Venturebeat)

BY DAVID EARL

ANCHOR LAUREN ZIMA

There’s bad financial news for electronics retailer RadioShack. Dividend.com has the details...

“Late Monday [RadioShack] warned that its fourth quarter earnings would fall well below Wall Street expectations, sending its shares plummeting in aftermarket trading.”

Shares plummeted even more Tuesday, falling 30 percent. But a columnist for Fox Business thinks RadioShack’s problem isn’t so much a numbers game, it’s a little more basic: it’s having an identity crisis.

“RadioShack’s problem is that nobody knows what it is. Is it the 7-Eleven of electronics retailers? Is it just another strip-center shop selling mobile phones? Or is it … a place for all your radio-controlled toy car needs?”

And if it’s the place that just sells you cell phones … the Wall Street Journal says it’s running into stiff competition.

“Lately there have been some signs of cracks in the mobile strategy...Everyone is getting into these mobile device sales now in a bigger way. Best Buy and all the other retailers want to get a piece of that growth.”

But financial blog, The Motley Fool, doesn’t see RadioShack’s bad data as a death blow...they’re just calling it a big fat mess.

“RadioShack isn't going away anytime soon. The company's still flush with cash. Its credit facility remains largely untapped … However, there are signs that RadioShack's contracting margins are here to stay. [It’s] in preservation mode now.”

But CNBC’s Mad Money man Jim Cramer saw today coming and says this stock won’t bounce back any time soon...

“And why is that? It’s all courtesy of secular competition from Internet based retailers like Amazon that are pantsing the brick and mortar guys.”

RadioShack’s 30-percent hit in stock price on the last day in January comes close to describing its performance last year. For 2011, the stock price saw a 47-percent decline.

(Image Source: Wikimedia Commons)  

BY VICTORIA CRAIG

You're watching multi-source video news analysis from Newsy. 

U.S. banks tried to keep lending low in the last part of 2011, but a Federal Reserve survey says loan requests are on the rise. Bloomberg explains why banks are hanging onto their money.

“Domestic American banks say commercial and industrial, and commercial real estate loan demand is up. Small business demand increased by the most in any quarter since 2005 But lending standards were little changed.”  

And Bloomberg notes -- standards for lending didn’t change much. So, what’s the reason behind the tightened standards and increased desire to borrow money? 24/7 Wall Street explains. 

"The rise in funding was due to inventory restocking, covering accounts receivable, and mergers and acquisitions. For banks where lending fell, the chief reason was less need for capital investment." 

A senior economics reporter for CNBC says the results of the Fed’s latest survey could be a sign of good things to come.

“A bunch of good stuff there that I think was something that we’ve been waiting to see in this recovery here, Bill, but haven’t seen too much which is loan demand and of course, it was a reversal of the prior quarter but we’ll see if this continues.”

Dow Jones notes -- Europe’s financial troubles could be helping U.S. banks see less competition from their European counterparts. But the Wall Street Journal takes that analysis one step further, highlighting the possible downside to less investment.

“Banks in the U.S. started to tighten credit in the second half of 2011 as Europe's debt crisis worsened, following almost two years of easier standards on business loans. The tighter credit conditions could hurt the fragile U.S. recovery, which has recently shown signs of improvement.”

While banks aren’t too keen on easing their lending standards for commercial and industrial loans, CNBC reports some banks are easing standards on credit cards and other consumer loans.