Michael Phelps brings home girlfriend for Thanksgiving

Michael Phelps took his relationship with his girlfriend to the next level, and brought her to Baltimore to meet his family for the first time over Thanksgiving. The Olympic champ has been dating Las Vegas cocktail waitress Caroline "Caz" Pal, 26, for about two months. The two met in Vegas after his record-setting performance in Beijing last summer while he was working on his poker game. (Cube Candy thought the job title of “cocktail waitress” was just code for stripper...)

Britney’s starting fresh and looking for love

Britney Spears hasn’t given up on love. The former Mrs. K-Fed says she’d like another walk down the aisle. “In five years I would like to be married and have a father figure for my kids, someone who is a provider and can be really stable,” Spears says in the new issue of Glamour magazine.

She also said in her new documentary (which premiered last night on MTV) that she married K-Fed for the wrong reasons. (You think?!) But now she’s turned a new leaf (supposedly) and says she is not the wild child party girl she once was. Even though she had an early birthday celebration last night at club G-A-Y in London, the comeback pop princess swears she’s over that scene. For now, Spears moves on with her international promotional push for her new album, Circus, which comes out tomorrow, Dec. 2, on her birthday.

Watch Brit Brit blow out her b-day candles in London –

Divorce drama for Amy Winehouse?

Let’s face it....drama follows Amy Winehouse no matter where she is (in rehab, the hospital, hubby in jail.) The most recent drama for Amy is her marriage. Her husband says he wants out of their marriage – for her sake. "I have to let her go to save her life," Blake Fielder-Civil – who is currently in rehab after being released from jail in November – told a British newspaper Sunday. "I am not abandoning her. I am doing this out of love." During the interview with the News of the World, Fielder-Civil also admits that he "introduced" the 25-year-old Winehouse to crack and heroin. Mmmm…and he thinks she stop doing drugs after he dumps her?

Mary-Kate Olsen prego?

Mary-Kate Olsen is reportedly pregnant. Prego rumors are flying because her weight finally broke 100 lbs. Congrats, MK - give that girl a candy bar. The 22-year-old star now weighs in at a whole 102 lbs. Especially since she used to battle anorexia, that’s a record. Mary-Kate has been dating New York artist Nate Lowman since the beginning of the year and is said to have been inspired to start a family by late actor, and close friend, Heath Ledger - who told her becoming a father was the most rewarding thing he had ever done.

FB takes over the world

Following in Goggle’s foot steps, Facebook plans to take over the world. Facebook Connect allows its members to log onto other Web sites using their Facebook identification and see their friends’ activities on those sites. Actually Facebook put the Kabash on its participation in a similar initiative put forth by Google in the past year. 

Local Facebook: Newish group on Facebook

Speaking of FB, check out this new group: Students For Concealed Carry on the ODU campus.

BTW, check out this lovely song from the movie Synecdoche, New York

And read the review.

Genetics testing determines which sport your kid should play

A Boulder, Colorado-based genetics lab is offering tests that will predict which sport your child will excel. With a swab of a toddler’s cheek and a mere $149, parents can determine if their child will have ultra-powerful speed and endurance. The company studied 429 elite white athletes including 50 Olympians, and found similarities in DNA structure. Cube's thinking flashback to "Gattaca."

Save money with sex, says Brits

Europe has always been so fashion-forward. Now they're financial-forward. With debt on the the rise, Brits are having more sex because it's a "free" form of recreation and fun. What else was at the penny-pinchers lists of cheap things, ahem, to do? Gossip, window shopping and going to a museum.

Read on and save and err...you know what else...

Time are tough, indeed, Cube thinks…

How 'bout a kitchen sandwich? Yummmm.

ADVISORY: Users are solely responsible for opinions they post here and for following agreed-upon rules. Comments do not reflect the views or approval of The Virginian-Pilot or this Web site. Comments are automatically checked for inappropriate language, but readers might find some comments offensive or inaccurate. If you believe a comment violates our rules, click the "Report Violation" link below the comment to alert an editor. Repeat offenders will be denied automatic posting privileges.

Heidi Montag elopes and doesn’t tell family

It’s official. The couple commonly known as “Speidi” are wedded. “Hills” star Heidi Montag didn't even inform her dad about marrying her on-again, off-again boyfriend Spencer Pratt. Reports surfaced that the couple had eloped to Mexico last week. On Monday, Montag told Perez Hilton that she and Pratt wed at the One & Only Palmilla Resort, just outside Cabo San Lucas. "The minute we said our vows, I couldn't stop crying," she said. Montag, 22, and Pratt, 25, have chronicled their rocky relationship on MTV’s The Hills. (Cube thinks the marriage is just another publicity stunt for 15 more min’s of fame…especially since she leaked it to Perez.)

An unorthodox turkey recipe

Turkey bacon and turducken are delicacies of the past. How 'bout Turbaconducken? A turkey stuffed with duck and WRAPPED in bacon. Cube's mouth is watering as we're clutching ouir heart. Call us a duck…. we mean a doc! But lemme have a bite first, please...

Thanksgiving, anyone?

Lastly, Looking for Thanksgiving news, information, games and events? Try our holidays guide!

Travis Barker sues for plane crash

Travis Barker has explained why he filed a lawsuit blaming the pilots and faulty equipment for a plane crash that severely injured him and DJ AM and killed four others, including the pilots. "If something goes wrong that's not supposed to go wrong or you fall victim of it, I think you should be compensated," the former Blink 182 drummer tells E! The Learjet crash, he says, left him with third-degree burns and a life that'll never be the same again. But his friend DJ AM (real name Adam Goldstein) is not part of the litigation.

Men who mad fake penis face jail time

Two men have have been convicted of selling the Whizzinator, a fake penis to help men cheat on drug tests, over the internet for three years. The device was sold with a heating element and fake urine to help people test negative for illegal substances. They could face up to eight years in prison and a $500,000 (£334,000) fine. Cube wonders if the fake penis will do them any good in prison.

'Truman syndrome,' when life seems like TV

Researchers have begun documenting what they dub the "Truman syndrome," a delusion afflicting people who are convinced that their lives are secretly playing out on a reality TV show. Scientists say the disorder underscores the influence pop culture can have on mental conditions. Of the patients that one doc has encountered, most have specifically mentioned "The Truman Show."

Man skilled at Scientology building in Hollywood had church ties

A 48-year-old Oregon man was fatally shot by a Scientology Celebrity Centre security guard in Hollywood. The man was wielding samurai swords as he tried to attack guests at the building Sunday. Prior to the incident, security surveillance cams spied the man pulling up in a red convertible. The tape has not been released because it had become too graphic. No other weapons were found in the red rental.

Florida college bans politically-incorrect holiday displays

Cube says no! no! no! to this one from the Fort Myers, Fla., news-press.com. The admin at Florida Gulf Coast U. has banned all holiday decorations from common spaces on campus and canceled a popular greeting card design contest, which is being replaced by an ugly sweater competition. By tradition, the campus doesn't celebrate Christmas parties but "end-of-the-semester" parties and "end-of-the-calendar-year" parties. Cube thinks as long as folks are partying, "What's in a name?"

Shrimp on treadmills not suppose to be a laughing matter

Since the “running shrimp” video first appeared on a faculty page at Pacific University of Oregon, at least 62 versions of it — many set to such inspiring tunes as the themes from "The Benny Hill Show" — have been posted n YouTube. What those who have been amused by the running shrimp may not know is that they’re actually watching serious science. The two sicentest who made the video appeared on the Today Show to explain how they wanted to learn how bacterial infections affected a shrimp’s endurance. They hit on the idea of putting one on a treadmill. Both climate change and the runoff from agriculture and human activities affect the composition of ocean water, which in turn can lead to higher levels of bacteria. If shrimp with bacterial infections have less endurance and strength, that affects their ability to survive... and our ability to survive also.

That's it for Cube! 
Get back to work!
(Or pretending to work while you search the internet for Turkey recipes)

ADVISORY: Users are solely responsible for opinions they post here and for following agreed-upon rules. Comments do not reflect the views or approval of The Virginian-Pilot or this Web site. Comments are automatically checked for inappropriate language, but readers might find some comments offensive or inaccurate. If you believe a comment violates our rules, click the "Report Violation" link below the comment to alert an editor. Repeat offenders will be denied automatic posting privileges.

‘Full House’s’ Jodie Sweetin’s not so sweet split

America’s sweetheart, Jodie Sweetin, who played middle sis Stephanie on “Full House” has filed for legal separation from husband of 16 months Cody Herpin. It was Sweetin’s second marriage. But, the actress is "trying to stay positive for Zoie," their 7-month-old daughter. For his part, Herpin, 31, says he's "still discombobulated" over the split. "It's rough," he says. "Marriage is not taken lightly to me. It's supposed to be forever." According to the Superior Court papers filed Wednesday in Orange County, Calif., Sweetin cited "irreconcilable differences" as the cause of the split, and she is seeking joint legal and physical custody of Zoie.

Chris Brown dominates American Music Awards

Chris Brown was the big winner at the American Music Awards on Sunday night, surprising himself most of all. "I don't know what to say. I would have given it to Coldplay," said Brown, who won artist of the year, male pop/rock artist and male soul/R&B artist. Kanye West, still sore at losing male rap/hip-hop artist last year, won the trophy this time – then said Lil Wayne deserved it more. (Well then, you just can’t make Kanye happy, huh?) Other winners include: Alicia Keys, winning for both the pop/rock and soul/R&B categories; Daughtry, for pop/rock group; Jordin Sparks, for adult contemporary music; Carrie Underwood, for country album for Carnival Ride; Taylor Swift, for female country artist, and Rihanna, for pop/rock female artist and female soul R&B artist. The Jonas Brothers also won the breakthrough artist award.

Watch a wrap-up on the Awards -

Twilight sucks in fanggirls for $70.6 mil weekend

It’s hit the new record as far as vampire movies go, and it did so much better than was projected – thanks to the buying power of tween girls everywhere. A female-dominated audience drove Twilight's opening weekend to among the biggest in Hollywood history: a $70.6 million Friday-Sunday gross. Exit polling showed 75 percent of Twilight's audience was female. Box office stats show the movie is the biggest opener for a movie directed by a woman, Catherine Hardwicke. The vampire romance also played well to the young—overall, 55 percent of ticket buyers were under age 25.

That's it for Cube....

Back to another day at the office.

ADVISORY: Users are solely responsible for opinions they post here and for following agreed-upon rules. Comments do not reflect the views or approval of The Virginian-Pilot or this Web site. Comments are automatically checked for inappropriate language, but readers might find some comments offensive or inaccurate. If you believe a comment violates our rules, click the "Report Violation" link below the comment to alert an editor. Repeat offenders will be denied automatic posting privileges.

Ashlee Simpson-Wentz births a Fall Out baby boy 

Ashlee Simpson-Wentz and husband Pete Wentz welcomed a son Thursday night, Bronx Mowgli Wentz. The Fall Out baby boy weighed 7 lbs., 11 oz., and was 20 1/2 inches long. Simpson-Wentz, 24, and the Fall Out Boy bassist, 29, announced her pregnancy in May, a few weeks after their opulent Alice's Adventures In Wonderland-themed wedding.

Speaking of the couple's obsession with Disney…what’s with the baby’s middle name, Mowgli? Well, it’s after the lead character in Disney's animated classic, The Jungle Book. So what gives? Is the couple devoted to Disney? First the Alice-themed wedding, then the Winnie the Pooh shower and now a middle name after a Disney character. Well, the couple has a lot of Disney names to pick from for future children.

Model Karolina Kurkova voted world's sexiest woman

Lingerie model Karolina Kurkova has been voted the world's sexiest woman by E! entertainment television, beating sultry actresses Angelina Jolie and Scarlett Johansson for the honor. Czech Kurkova, ranked by Forbes magazine as one of the world's highest paid models, was dubbed by E! as "she of the mysterious belly button" due to media speculation about what appears to be an unusually smooth navel. Second place also went to a supermodel, Israeli Bar Rafaeli, who has been linked to actor Leonardo DiCaprio, while Jolie, who recently gave birth to twins, was in third place.

Britney's manager says she's ready for a comeback

Has it happened yet? Cube is still waiting. In her new film Britney admists that she "totally lost my way, lost focus, lost myself." But that won't stand in the way of her comeback, says her manager. "She's definitely ready," Larry Rudolph says, following a sneak peek of Britney’s riveting MTV documentary, “Britney: For the Record,” which airs Nov. 30. And her new album “Circus,” is geared as Britney’s “comeback” album. All this press and publicity…how can the princess of pop not make a comeback?

Harry Potter's not opening and fans aren’t having it

The fan petitions are still growing, but the movie is still not coming out. Today was supposed to be the day Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince opened. Instead, over the summer, Warner Bros. rescheduled the franchise's latest adventure for next July, a move that caused a fan upset that hasn't entirely settled. "I think most fans are disappointed more than angry, and definitely skeptical of the real motive behind the delay," said Sara Greer, editor of the Harry Potter fan site MuggleNet. Either way, fans want their Potter and Twlight just won’t cut it for them.

Excited about Twilight?

For those who are pumped for Twilight, we have a review of the new supernatural teen flick right here.

Sources: TV shows Daisies, Eli Stone and Dirty Sexy canceled

ABC has canceled Pushing Daisies, executive producer Bryan Fuller has confirmed to E! Online exclusively. "I just heard the news," star Kristin Chenoweth tells us in an exclusive interview tonight. "Obviously it's a bittersweet night." According to sources, Eli Stone and Dirty Sexy Money also have been canceled. Reps for both shows have declined to comment. However, sources who work on Eli and DSM say they were informed today the shows would not continue. Awwww….shucks.

'Baby cockfight' controversy

Police say a dad encouraged two toddlers to beat each other and caught the fight on tape. "Prime News" reports.

Warning: The video is disturbing.

Embedded video from CNN Video

Teacher's aide former porn star

Some porn collectors may know Louisa Tuck as Crystal Gunns. But the children at an Vineland, N.J., Public Schools elementary school know her as Louisa Tuck, teacher's aide. Some parents are outraged by her employment history. Read about the controversy .

Palin pardons turkey while others slaughtered

Gov. Sarah Palin has granted the traditional Thanksgiving pardon to one lucky turkey, but the video that shocked some viewers captured what was happening in the background. As she answered questions Thursday at Triple D Farm & Hatchery outside Wasilla cameras from the Anchorage Daily News and others showed the bloody work of an employee slaughtering birds behind the former Republican vice presidential candidate.

Watch the video clip below, but be warned you may not like what you see:

That's it for today's break with Cube Candy... Happy Friday and get back to work!

ADVISORY: Users are solely responsible for opinions they post here and for following agreed-upon rules. Comments do not reflect the views or approval of The Virginian-Pilot or this Web site. Comments are automatically checked for inappropriate language, but readers might find some comments offensive or inaccurate. If you believe a comment violates our rules, click the "Report Violation" link below the comment to alert an editor. Repeat offenders will be denied automatic posting privileges.

Paris Hilton and Benji Madden split

You can gain and lose love in Paris. And Benji Madden has. The celeb twosome’s romance is over. The pair split a few days ago after more than nine months of dating, a source close to Hilton tells People. "She is saddened by the breakup but they're just too different and they wanted different things in life," says a source close to Hilton. Yet, isn’t Paris is always hungry for the next big thing? On Nov. 15, Paris was photographed getting cozy with ex-boyfriend Stavros Niarchos at nightspot Mokai in Miami. And on Tuesday night, Hilton and Madden partied separately in L.A. Well, Cube just wants to know if maybe Paris’ next show will be a search for a new boyfriend, instead of a new BFF.

Tragedies inspire Blink 182 guys to reconnect

According to Perez Hilton, Blink 182's Mark Hoppus has revealed that the recent death of Blink producer Jerry Finn and Travis Barker's miraculous survival of a plane crash has brought the trio back together. Well, sorta. They're at least talking (with Tom DeLonge) for the first time in years. The band's break up in 2005 was quite messy and Mark and Trav haven't really spoken to DeLonge since. Hoppus said on his blog, "We're just reconnecting as friends after four years of not talking. It's a good thing. Obviously the first question for a lot of people will be, 'Does this mean a Blink-182 reunion?' The answer is none of us know. We haven't talked about it at all. Right now it's just good for the three of us to see one another, reconnect and let the past be the past." Here’s to crossing our fingers for one tour!

Great American Smokeout: Today is the day to quit smoking

Today is the American Cancer Society's Great American Smokeout, a challenge to smokers to quit smoking held the third Thursday in of every November since 1977, which means.... today is the day to quit smoking if you really, really want to do so. There will be plenty of support and teeth whitener ads to go around. Want more info on the history of the Great American Smokeout, try here. Need reasons to quit (and who doesn't in an economy like this one), try this. Need a little help quitting, try starting with this resource. And let Cube know when you do. Some non-smokers get tired of smelling like smoke when they hang out with their friends.

Madonna, Guy come to terms on divorce

Is there a ray of light in Madonna and Guy Ritchie's divorce fight? The word from the British press today is that the former lovebirds have come to an amicable agreement on the terms of their divorce, with Ritchie reportedly refusing to take one penny of the Material One's massive fortune, valued in the $400 million-$500 million range. (But Ritchie isn’t hurting for cash – he’s said to be worth around $45 million and owns several properties in Great Britain.) According to the London Evening Standard, Madonna, 50, and Ritchie, 40, will share custody of their two children, 8-year-old Rocco and 3-year-old adopted son David, splitting their time between New York and London. Madonna's daughter, Lourdes, who she had with former personal trainer Carlos Leon, will continue to live with her.

Girl swallows battery

Check out this energetic little girl who swallowed a battery from her sister's alarm clock. Apparently, little kids swallow "anything and everything they can get their hands on." There isn't much to do... but wait.

That's it for Cube Candy!
Get back to work!

ADVISORY: Users are solely responsible for opinions they post here and for following agreed-upon rules. Comments do not reflect the views or approval of The Virginian-Pilot or this Web site. Comments are automatically checked for inappropriate language, but readers might find some comments offensive or inaccurate. If you believe a comment violates our rules, click the "Report Violation" link below the comment to alert an editor. Repeat offenders will be denied automatic posting privileges.

Britney Spears calls her life worse than a jail sentence

Britney Spears says that since her breakdown in January, her life has been worse than a jail sentence – but that she's slowly healing one day at a time. "I have really good days, and then I have bad days," the singer, 26, admits in a new fly-on-the wall, 90-minute documentary, “Britney: For The Record,” to air Nov. 30 on MTV. On struggling to regain control of her life, the pop star says candidly: "I'm having to pay for it for a really long time." A camera crew followed Britney for three months as she moved to pull her life back on track. "I wanted to make this film because I started to feel like I wasn't being seen in the light that I wanted to be seen in," Spears said. She hopes the documentary will help set the record straight on where she’s been and where she’s headed.

Hugh Jackman is named ‘The Sexiest Man Alive’

Yes, sir – Cube agrees Hugh is sexy. The man is a triple threat: he can sing, dance and wield a weapon. And at 6 ft. 2 in., all scruff and biceps, Hugh Jackman looms large in the new movie “Australia,” which he says kept him "dirty 95 percent of the time.” According to costar Nicole Kidman, "Women's jaws drop when Hugh walks into a room. But what was his real-life leading lady’s response to her hubby’s new title? Hugh said his wife of 12 years said, "I could've told them that years ago!" Check out People magazine’s other sexy men this year.

Star Trek XI gets sexy

The fast-paced trailer was released Monday and offers insight on the childhood of Captain Kirk and Mr. Spock. Believe it or not, Trekkies, the next Star Trek will include love scenes, vicious fights and hunks.

Watch the trailer

Miley giggles over new boy toy Justin on Ellen

They’re supposedly “not dating” but Miley couldn’t help but get the giggles and squirm like a school girl when Ellen asked her about model/singer Justin Gaston. Though Miley tries to dodge and be coy about her new relationship, her body language on Ellen gives it away. Just watch how giggly she gets as Ellen DeGeneres tries to make her admit they're dating.

Vet now serves as soap opera star

J.R. Martinez, 25, a real-life war veteran, takes the stage on the popular daytime soap opera "All My Children" to try and bring accuracy to an Iraq-related story line. In honor of Veteran's Day, Iraq War veterans played themselves on the show. Martinez was picked for a special recurring role on the show. Martinez was 19 and three-and-a-half weeks into his tour in Iraq when the Humvee in which he was riding drove over an IED. The explosion trapped him and flames engulfed him. Martinez ended up with 40 percent of his body burned and had to undergo 32 surgeries. Watch the video about him and how "All My Children" used real vets for the show.

Furby-like creature rediscovered

A nocturnal creature about the size of a small mouse has been rediscovered in Indonesia. The pygmy tarsie, which looks like a real-life version of a Furby, was thought to be extinct. No one had seen one for 70 years, but three specimens were trapped and tracked this summer by a Texas A&M University antropologist in the mountainsides of Lore Lindu National Park in Central Sulawesi. Check out the video:

TV reporters horrific accident caught on tape

Wow! Some reporters have drivers to take them everywhere while they sit in the back seat researching and writing their stories. Sam Champion of Good Morning America was doing just that when his driver Bryan Ritzul avoided a crashing into a tractor-trailer out of control and crashing into the median directly in front of them. Watch Sam and video from the car's font dash video mount here.

ADVISORY: Users are solely responsible for opinions they post here and for following agreed-upon rules. Comments do not reflect the views or approval of The Virginian-Pilot or this Web site. Comments are automatically checked for inappropriate language, but readers might find some comments offensive or inaccurate. If you believe a comment violates our rules, click the "Report Violation" link below the comment to alert an editor. Repeat offenders will be denied automatic posting privileges.

Lance Armstrong fears violent attack during Tour de France 2009

Seven-time Tour de France winner Lance Armstrong will return to the race next year after a three-year retirement. But he fears for his safety: "There're some aggressive, angry emotions [in France]. If you believe what you read my personal safety could be in jeopardy. Cycling is a sport of the open road and spectators are lining that road. I try to believe that people, even if they don't like me, will let the race unfold."

Heather Locklear formally charged with DUI

Heather Locklear has been formally charged with driving under the influence of drugs in connection with her September arrest, the Santa Barbara, Calif., District Attorney's Office said Monday. The misdemeanor charge filed by the DA's office specifies that the drugs in question were "prescription medications" and not alcohol or narcotics. If convicted, the actress, 47, faces penalties ranging from a fine to up to six months in county jail.

 Speaking of "drugs" and forms of escapism, Cube found the follow interesting research tidbits...

San Francisco has more pot clubs than Starbucks

San Francisco's Department of Public Health has released federal data that finds that there are 98 marijuana dispensaries compared to 71 Starbucks in the city. Cube must note that no laws have been broken here!  The pot outlets are actually alternative medicine spots for those who have been prescriptions. Ready to move?

Unhappy people watch more television

Cube found a reason for folks to go unplugged. A new study released from Social Indicators Research found that watching TV might make you feel good in the short term but is more likely to lead to overall unhappiness.   After collecting data over 34 years from 45,000 participants,  the research crew determined unhappy people watch more TV while those consider themselves happy spend more time reading and socializing.  Now Cube says read the study, re-new your library cards and join a book club!

Now back to the celeb gossip...

Justin Timberlake debuts new single on MySpace

Justin Timberlake is debuting a new song that will help sick children at the same time. His new beat, "Follow My Lead,” is available on his MySpace Music page beginning today. All proceeds from download sales will help fund the Shriners Hospitals for Children, which provide free care to children with orthopedic conditions, burns, spinal cord injuries and cleft lip and palate. Awww…gotta love JT!

Scott Weiland has new solo

LP Scott Weiland, former frontman for Stone Temple Pilots, has a new solo album out called "Hodgepodge." It's said to be inspired by a split from his with of eight years and the death of his younger brother to a drug overdose. Despite being tested by some serious downs in the past year, Dec. 5 will mark six years since Weiland has done heroin. Read more about the album and his creative process.

Jessica says Ashlee may induce labor

Ashlee Simpson-Wentz is so eager to finally give birth that she may induce labor, her sister Jessica Simpson says. Older sis Jess stopped by on Monday for the taping of the The Ellen DeGeneres Show. Jessica told DeGeneres on the show, which airs Wednesday, “I think she's really just jumping around trying everything right now." (Maybe Ashlee should try singing….the baby just might jump out then.)

Since Cube is on the topic of things that just can't wait.... 

Lean Cuisine recall

One member of Cube's family is all smug about being vegetarinan now, and Cube's ignoring her child-like laughter and poinging: Lean Cuisine has recalled three varieties of its entrees, which may contain small piece of blue plastic. For more information on each product recalled, check out this news release from the US Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service.

Cube reminds for your to-do list: Check your freezer, re-new your library cards and...

get back to work!

ADVISORY: Users are solely responsible for opinions they post here and for following agreed-upon rules. Comments do not reflect the views or approval of The Virginian-Pilot or this Web site. Comments are automatically checked for inappropriate language, but readers might find some comments offensive or inaccurate. If you believe a comment violates our rules, click the "Report Violation" link below the comment to alert an editor. Repeat offenders will be denied automatic posting privileges.

TRL, R.I.P.

MTV's pioneering video countdown show signed off Sunday evening with a two-hour finale filled with live in-studio performances, appearances via satellite, and 10 years' worth of clips and reminiscences. (A big favorite: young 'N Sync standout Timberlake saying how cool it would be to date fellow burgeoning pop star Britney Spears.) Carson Daly (as well as former veejays) also showed up to help host-of-the-moment Damien Fahey count down the 10 videos that helped defined TRL make its mark, starting with Outkast's "Hey Ya." Total Request Live (TRL), which premiered in 1998, saw its numbers dwindle as MTV packed its schedule with reality programming, and the Internet and YouTube siphoned away massive chunks of the show's target teenage audience. But once upon a time, TRL was destination afterschool viewing, before shows like "The Hills" and Paris Hilton's "My New BFF" took over the channel. So, here’s a reminder of just how cool 3 p.m. used to be on TRL.

Wanda Sykes speaks out about lifestyle and wife

Comedian Wanda Sykes has become more outspoken about her gay lifestyle now that California has passed Proposition 8, a same sex marriage ban. Sykes told a crowd at a gay rights rally in Las Vegas on Saturday that the passage of Proposition 8 made her feel like she was "attacked." "Now, I gotta get in their face," she said. "I'm proud to be a woman. I'm proud to be a black woman, and I'm proud to be gay." She also admitted that she married her partner on Oct. 25. Who is Wanda Sykes wife? Cube doesn't know but we're betting - considering Sykes' her feisty and blunt style - she's really patient and has a great sense of humor.

E! host Debbie Matenopoulos surprised by hubby’s divorce filing

TV personality Debbie Matenopoulos didn’t see it coming. She says she is hurt and surprised by her husband's divorce filing, which she learned about from Internet reports. Ouch. The host of E!'s Daily 10 and her husband were married for seven years. Jay Faires, a music executive, filed for divorce, citing irreconcilable differences, according to Los Angeles court papers filed Wednesday. Faires, who wed Matenopoulos, 33, in July 2003 and separated five years later, is requesting that the court not award Matenopoulos spousal support. (Maybe it’s because the two-time Emmy nominee and former co-host of The View is making bank on E!.)

Kanye West denies assaulting photographer

Kanye West denies assaulting a photographer in a "bogus" incident outside a Newcastle, England, bar that led to the rapper's second paparazzi-related arrest. "When I left the club," he writes in his blog, "I was encountered by a thirsty paparazzi as usual. He felt he had more rights to my space than me, so I put my hand up to prevent him from taking my image. I didn't assault him."

Lohan dust up with animal activists

Lindsay Lohan was pelted with a flour bomb by when she entered the VIP Room Theater of a Paris nightclub wearing a fur stole early Saturday morning. She dust off her stole and blue sequined dress to pose on the red carpet with disc jockey Samantha Ronson, who entered the club to spin tracks for crowd that included Shaggy and Katy Perry.

First female pro basketball player

So it's not American pro ball, but Eri Yoshida, 16, is the first female drafted to a pro baseball team in an independent league in Japan. It was her side-arm knuckleball pitch that got her noticed.

Penthouse Casino wants a piece of Vegas

Penthouse CEO Marc Bell is considering buying Vegas property. Founded in the U.K. in 1965, Playboy's rival in the adult entertainment world has been emerging across all mediums. The Web sites have 200 million members, including "phenomenal" numbers in Europe and Asia. Penthouse has also launched a cable television network in January and already has signed up 30 million homes. Read about Penthouse's possible new presence in the LV.

Australia launches a new sex-focused political party

In response to the Australian government's mandatory filters on the internet regarding sexual content, the head of a national adult retail and entertainment lobby group is launching the Australian Sex Party. The Eros Association head Fiona Patten says she - like the conservative Christian politicians - wants to protect the children, but does not want to "reduce the Internet to a G-rated Internet." Read how Aussies are getting serious about their sex.

Motrin ad enrages baby-slinging moms

Pain relief mogul Motrin has removed and apologized for an ad campaign targeting mothers who carry their babies in a sling. Mommy bloggers have been e-raging and Twitting that the ad is insensitive and condescending. Watch the ad. Read the mad mommy feedback. And tell Cube what you think of the commercial.

That's it for Cube Candy today!
Get back to work!

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Angelina Jolie hopes to 'fade away' from movies

With six children at home, Angelina Jolie says her days as an actress are numbered. "I don't plan to keep acting very long," she tells the BBC. "I'm ready to do a few things now and fade away and get ready to be a grandma one day."  Jolie, 33, currently starring in The Changeling, says she plans to "work for a few months" in February, then take a year off.  "I won't work again probably for another year," she says. "So maybe it'll be once a year, then maybe it'll be once every three years." Geez, must be nice - can Cube have that schedule too?

Kanye arrested (again) for allegedy popping another pap

Kanye West's love may not be the only thing that needs to be put on lockdown—his fists might also want to consider it. The rapper was arrested on suspicion of assault in Newcastle, England, early this morning, after allegedly getting into a physical altercation with a paparazzo. Northumbria Police have confirmed to E! News that a 31-year-old man was arrested and released without charge and that no further action will be taken. This makes the second time this year West managed to escape charges for an alleged shutterbug smackdown.

Paula Goodspeed sent Abdul flowers days before suicide

Last week, Paula Abdul got flowers with a note signed, "Love, J.T." and the message, "Hope you're doing great. Here's my new cell number." But the gift didn’t come from her restaurateur boyfriend J.T. Torregiani, but from ex-American Idol contestant Paula Goodspeed. Over the last three years – since Goodspeed was dismissed from her disastrous Idol audition – Abdul has received more than 100 letters, numerous phone calls and uninvited visits from Goodspeed. Also, according to People magazine, Goodspeed even changed her first name from Sandra to Paula. Goodspeed recently committed suicide outside Abdul's home. (Now that is a fan taking it overboard.)

Beyoncé: I didn't want to marry too young

Beyoncé, who has always been tight-lipped about her marriage to Jay-Z, is finally giving some insight into her thoughts about tying the knot. "I was 18 when we first met, 19 when we first started dating. There was no rush," the singer tells Seventeen magazine. The singer, whose new album “I Am … Shasha Fierce” arrives Monday, says she wanted to have a strong sense of self before making a lifelong commitment to anyone.

'Dirty dancer' wins $275,000 from small town

A North Carolina Town has agreed to pay $275,000 to Rebecca Willis for banning her from a local establishment after residents accused her of "dirty dancing." She described her dancing as "exuberant and flamboyant," but not obscene. Although she won a settlement, she is not allowed to return to the establishment she once dance and the town won't admit it did anything wrong.

SNL hires replacement for Fey and Poehler

Fey went move on to primetime and Poehler went on to have a baby, and that left an opening for two new featured "Saturday Night Live" players - Abby Elliot and Micaela Watkins, NBC announced today. Elliot comes to the show via the Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre, an improv/sketch company co-founded by Poehler. She is a second-generation cast member. Her father Chris Elliott was regular in the mid-1990s. She also trained with the Groundlings, where Will Ferrell, Phil Hartman and Kristen Wiig got their start. Watkins is also a Groundlings alum.

That's it from Cube Candy -

Have a "cubetastic" Friday!

ADVISORY: Users are solely responsible for opinions they post here and for following agreed-upon rules. Comments do not reflect the views or approval of The Virginian-Pilot or this Web site. Comments are automatically checked for inappropriate language, but readers might find some comments offensive or inaccurate. If you believe a comment violates our rules, click the "Report Violation" link below the comment to alert an editor. Repeat offenders will be denied automatic posting privileges.

A wrap-up on the CMA’s – Country stars hottest night of glamour and music

In case you missed the CMA's, Cube Candy is bringing you the highlights, the best-of, if you will:

There's just no beating Kenny Chesney. The country star earned the prestigious entertainer of the year award for the third year in a row – fourth time overall – at the Country Music Association Awards on Wednesday at Nashville's Sommet Center.  "As much as tonight is about awards, I really believe that being able to stand up here is more about great songs," a teary Chesney, 40, told the crowd, after surprise guest Shania Twain announced his victory. "This is my fourth time standing up here, and I'm really humbled by it." Chesney was nominated seven times at the award show, but left with only the night's top honor.

Four-time nominee Brad Paisley didn't just host and perform at the ceremony – he was one of the night's major winners. The singer took two awards, including male vocalist and music video of the year for "Waitin' on a Woman."

The singer's co-host, Carrie Underwood, also had a big night – and not just because of her six wardrobe changes during the telecast. The former American Idol champ was named female vocalist of the year for the third year in a row. Accepting the award after belting out the emotionally rending "Just a Dream," Underwood, 25, joked, "Mama, it's real hard to sing when you're in the second row crying."

A bit of Hollywood came to Nashville last night as well. Nicole Kidman revealed the first winner of the evening with Hugh Jackman. The Australia stars presented George Strait with single of the year for "I Saw God Today." The country veteran later nabbed album of the year, for Troubadour. Nashville native Reese Witherspoon was also on hand as a presenter. "I'm having just the greatest time," the actress said before naming Paisley male vocalist of the year.

Miley's beau plays Prince Charming for Taylor Swift

Miley Cyrus’ much older boyfriend, Justin Gaston, even got stage time. Taylor Swift's performance of her hit "Love Story" was one of the night's big highlights, complete with elaborate set, waltzing dancers and Gaston, in the role of a Disney-esque Prince Charming, which he also portrays in her video. Miley gushed on the red carpet that she was ok with “flying solo” because she was excited her two B.F.F’s would be sharing the stage.

Watch Justin and Taylor's performance on the CMA's -

CMA Style Star: Carrie vs. Taylor

The country stars showed off a whirlwind of glam gowns, but who stole the show? Check out Carrie Underwood's and Taylor Swift's looks throughout the night.

American Idol fan found dead near Abdul’s home

One could conclude that Paula Goodspeed, who was found dead near Paula Abdul's home today, killed herself because of her failed season five "American Idol" audition. Her rendition of "Proud Mary" was roundly criticized by Simon Cowell and rejected by Abdul and Randy Jackson. In addition to the criticism on the show, Goodspeed noted on her MySpace page that bloggers had also trashed her appearance. Although the official cause of death has not been determined, the assistant chief of the Los Angeles County Department of Coroner indicate that it is a possible suicide. "American Idol" producer Fremantle Media North America declined to comment, but Paula Abdul issued a statement through her publicist: "I am deeply shocked and saddened at what transpired yesterday... My heart and prayers go out to her family."

Scott Wolf & wife expecting baby boy

Scott Wolf and his wife of four years, Kelley, are expecting their first child, a baby boy. The former "Party of Five" star, 40, told Access Hollywood that he and Kelley, 32, who appeared on "Real World: New Orleans," are both very "excited" about becoming parents. Good thing Scott has lots of practice on being a family man from his stint on "Party of Five."

Jimi Hendrix's drummer found dead

Some of you in Cube land may have thought everyone who was part of the Jimi Hendrix Experience had died off a long, long time ago. Consider it: Hendrix died in 1970 and Bass player Noel Redding died in 2003. However, Mitch Mitchell, the band's drummer and the last surviving member of the legendary Jimi Hendrix Experience, continued his drumming and most recent played Friday in Portland at the last stop on the Experience Hendrix Tour. Mitchell was found dead in his hotel room this morning. He was 61.

Knight guide released with WoW expansion

Get excited World of Warcrafters! A WoW Death Knight guide will be released in time for the launch of the Wrath of the Lich King expansion. You can find more info on the guide here. For those who don't know, the Death Knight is the first hero class in WoW that is unlockable by everyone. Duh!

That's it for your break with da Cube!

Until next tomorrow....

ADVISORY: Users are solely responsible for opinions they post here and for following agreed-upon rules. Comments do not reflect the views or approval of The Virginian-Pilot or this Web site. Comments are automatically checked for inappropriate language, but readers might find some comments offensive or inaccurate. If you believe a comment violates our rules, click the "Report Violation" link below the comment to alert an editor. Repeat offenders will be denied automatic posting privileges.