Trying to find out what's the deal with the world, tracking what's on sale and who's talking about it on Twitter. Update hourly.

Deals of the Hour / July 2, 2011, 10:48 pm

Texas Warns Against Traveling to Nuevo Laredo 4th of July Weekend

McCraw goes on to say that there is no indication that the criminal related activities will occur in Texas, but DPS and the Sheriff's Department cannot discount the information that supports possible crimes against Americans. They add that authorities are ... (Source: pro8news 2011-07-03T04:23:46Z)

Master Gardeners - What to do in a July garden

Look for their booth. Lastly, take a moment to pour yourself a cool glass of ice tea, slip a mint leaf or two from your herb pot into it, and take a stroll around your beautiful, well-kept gardens. * WSU Extension Master Gardener Program is an organization ... (Source: Yakima Herald Republic 2011-07-02T07:02:26Z)

Scandals taint revered Pakistan military

"It's no secret the relationship between civilian and military authorities has been warped, twisted and skewed," said Tariq Fatemi, a former ambassador to the United States with close links to politician Nawaz Sharif , who has led a recent campaign for ... (Source: Los Angeles Times 2011-07-03T04:23:46Z)

Your garden: Work with what you have, and appreciate it

If you know of a gardener with a green thumb and a beautiful garden, we'd love to hear about it. Send us the name, address and daytime phone number of the gardener, specific details about the garden, and five gardening tips from the gardener. We're also ... (Source: Lexington Herald-Leader 2011-07-02T05:36:32Z)

Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic to meet in Wimbledon men's final

1 status by withstanding a barrage of artistic and athletic points from the 6-foot-2, 200-pound Tsonga. The Frenchman tumbled and twisted and twirled his body around the court and brought the crowd to its feet in the third-set tiebreaker when he saved two ... (Source: Los Angeles Times 2011-07-02T06:19:29Z)

Tigers found a gem: Victor Martinez adds productivity, character

It's quiz time as we move toward the All-Star break with a half-season of numbers and measurements at hand. The quiz is more a test of memory. Specifically, as teams and players stepped into the free-agent marketplace last November, what player would a ... (Source: Detroit News 2011-07-03T03:19:20Z)

No Pause in Pursuit of Justice (and Ratings)

Since the trial began, the tale has grown only more twisted, with accusations of incest and adultery and depictions of a mother who was so depraved and indifferent that she went shopping and got tattooed while volunteers were searching for her daughter. (Source: New York Times 2011-07-01T22:55:40Z)

Beach balls abound at day 2 of Super Ball IX

"I drink beers, hang out, play some guitar, and just kind of kick back," Heller said. "It's a great place to relax, and it's beautiful weather, thank God." Aside from making music, folks found other ways of entertaining themselves and others. Brandon Ayers ... (Source: Star-Gazette 2011-07-03T03:40:49Z)

Beware The Casey Anthony Death Stare

When Casey was smothering the life out of Caylee, she didn`t think of the beautiful child as her daughter, but as a troublesome and needy brat who hindered her from partying until the wee hours of the night. Casey probably had her hair pulled back tight ... (Source: Student Operated Press 2011-07-03T04:30:55Z)

Monaco Full of Joy and Love After Prince Albert's Wedding

When she went into the chapel at Saint Devoté, she just broke down; it was so emotional . And she is so beautiful." -- Nichelle Dubresne, homemaker "It was a beautiful service, and I think it may have been just in time. Don't be surprised if we are ... (Source: YAHOO! 2011-07-03T03:33:39Z)

N.M. fire largest in state history

The challenge Friday was stopping the flames from doing more damage to the lands of Santa Clara Pueblo. The fire had made a four-mile run north toward the reservation, hitting the pueblo's watershed and cultural sites that are scattered on the Pajarito Plateau. (Source: Deseret News 2011-07-02T06:05:10Z)

20 WINS IN A ROW

1 status by withstanding a barrage of artistic and athletic points from the 6-foot-2, 200-pound Tsonga. tumbled and twisted and twirled his body around the court and brought the crowd to its feet in the third-set tiebreaker when he saved two match points. (Source: Monterey County Herald 2011-07-02T07:59:42Z)

Los Alamos lab prepares to reopen as fire threat eases

The blaze has also encroached on an Indian reservation to the north, the Santa Clara Pueblo, burning at least 13,000 acres of tribal land, including a number of sacred sites. "We, the generation of today, have seen a beautiful canyon and traditional lands ... (Source: msnbc.com 2011-07-03T03:26:30Z)

Royals tour Canada, Monaco gets a new princess

"They'll be remembered as princesses — beautiful, radiant princesses," Martin said. Diana also was on the minds of some Canadians in the crowd greeting her son, William, and his wife. "Happy Birthday Lady Di. Canadians love you," read one sign held up ... (Source: CBS News 2011-07-02T15:09:12Z)

Copa America 2011: Brazil Vs. Venezuela

Dunga, a former holding midfielder in the Brazilian national team, was blasted at home for not playing beautiful football and praised by foreigners for bringing discipline to Brazil. The fans and press at home won, Dunga was fired, and Mano Menezes took over. (Source: SBNation.com 2011-07-03T04:09:27Z)

KVITOVA PAVES WAY FOR NEW GENERATION

That kiss might signify the start of a beautiful friendship between Wimbledon and the 21-year-old with the broken English. She was soon back on her feet, raising a tennis ball above her head, saluting an audience which rose as one to hail the new champion ... (Source: FOXSports.com 2011-07-03T04:23:46Z)

Los Alamos officials plan for return of residents

That the fire is burning in areas west of Los Alamos and in Santa Clara Canyon, north of town, that the Native American tribe there holds sacred, is an indication of how severe the fire danger is in the southwest. Burn areas typically provide spots to help ... (Source: KABC 2011-07-02T18:22:28Z)

Beach balls abound on day 2 of Super Ball IX: Phish fans flock to WGI

"I drink beers, hang out, play some guitar, and just kind of kick back," Heller said. "It's a great place to relax, and it's beautiful weather, thank God." Aside from making music, folks found other ways of entertaining themselves and others. Brandon Ayers ... (Source: Press & Sun-Bulletin 2011-07-03T03:26:30Z)

Vegas Advisors on Gambling

Get his in-depth analysis and winner on today's  FREE VIDEO REPORT  at VegasAdvisors.com. Al also has an ADDED BONUS on today's report - a special  $15 Discount Coupon  that will save you $15 on your purchase today at VegasAdvisors.com .  Moving on to ... (Source: NBC Sports 2011-07-02T14:47:43Z)

Union Street Gallery presents 'A Little Garden Art' garden walk

Stroll the grounds of 10 beautiful and unique gardens in Homewood, Flossmoor, Olympia Fields and Park Forest during the seventh annual "A Little Garden Art" garden walk presented by the Union Street Gallery from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. July 9, rain or shine. (Source: NWI.com 2011-07-03T04:45:14Z)

Prince Albert & Charlene Wittstock Wed in Religious Ceremony

"It was one of the most beautiful weddings I've ever seen," Gildo Pastor, 44, a longtime friend of Albert and a member of one of the most prominent families in Monaco told PEOPLE. "They have a wonderful future ahead of them." For the ceremony, Wittstock ... (Source: People 2011-07-02T15:52:09Z)

Jurors see scant evidence in trial

During opening statements in May, prosecutors said Caylee was suffocated with duct tape by a mother who loved to party, tattooed herself with the Italian words for "beautiful life" in the month her daughter was missing and crafted elaborate lies to ... (Source: Vindy.com 2011-07-03T04:02:17Z)

Deals of the Hour / July 2, 2011, 8:51 pm

NFL, NBA lockouts provide similarities

But it's probably not a fluke that owners in both sports are saying at the same time that the old deals didn't provide them with sufficient revenue. The U.S. economy is emerging from a recession. And NFL and NBA leaders contend there aren't enough new ... (Source: Gadsden Times 2011-07-03T01:31:58Z)

Beach balls abound on day 2 of Super Ball IX: Phish fans flock to WGI

"I drink beers, hang out, play some guitar, and just kind of kick back," Heller said. "It's a great place to relax, and it's beautiful weather, thank God." Aside from making music, folks found other ways of entertaining themselves and others. Brandon Ayers ... (Source: Press & Sun-Bulletin 2011-07-03T03:26:30Z)

Jurors see scant evidence in Casey Anthony trial

During opening statements in May, prosecutors said Caylee was suffocated with duct tape by a mother who loved to party, tattooed herself with the Italian words for "beautiful life" in the month her daughter was missing and crafted elaborate lies to mislead ... (Source: Detroit News 2011-07-03T01:03:20Z)

Monaco Full of Joy and Love After Prince Albert's Wedding

When she went into the chapel at Saint Devoté, she just broke down; it was so emotional . And she is so beautiful." -- Nichelle Dubresne, homemaker "It was a beautiful service, and I think it may have been just in time. Don't be surprised if we are ... (Source: YAHOO! 2011-07-03T03:33:39Z)

A Game of Give and Take

As long as superstars get paid, the rest of the lot should be able to deal with "only" getting 3-5 million dollars annually on 1-3 year deals. Yes, when you're getting far more than that now, I don't expect you to take it without a fight, but in the end ... (Source: CelticsBlog 2011-07-02T00:50:12Z)

Prince William and Kate Middleton Met by Protesters on Tour of Canada

Prince William, wearing a dark blue suit, and Kate, dressed in a grey, fitted knee-length Kensington dress by British designer Catherine Walker, each wielded a shovel as they helped plant a Canadian hemlock -- a tree known for its longevity meant to ... (Source: FOX News 2011-07-03T02:00:36Z)

Cheers and some boos greet royal tour in Quebec

The couple visited a hospital neonatal unit, then went to a cooking school where they donned chefs' uniforms to cover William's dark blue suit and Kate's gray Kensington dress as they prepared food during a cooking lesson. The couple are scheduled to spend ... (Source: Chicago Tribune 2011-07-03T02:22:04Z)

New 'Transformers 3′ Movie Delivered Crazy Action,Drama & More

New 'Transformers 3′ movie delivered crazy action,drama & more. DreamWorks Pictures (Paramount) released their new crazy,action flick "Transformers 3: Dark Of The Moon" this weekend. I just checked it out,and thought it was pretty amazing ... (Source: OnTheFlix 2011-07-03T01:24:48Z)

Some questions and answers concerning the labor unrest in both the NFL and NBA

But it's probably not a fluke that owners in both sports are saying at the same time that the old deals didn't provide them with sufficient revenue. The U.S. economy is emerging from a recession. And NFL and NBA leaders contend there aren't enough ... (Source: Peoria Journal Star 2011-07-03T02:29:14Z)

Royals tour Canada, Monaco gets a new princess

"They'll be remembered as princesses — beautiful, radiant princesses," Martin said ... while Albert wore a sober dark suit and white tie. Saturday's Roman Catholic ceremony will also take place in the palace, followed by a gala dinner by famed ... (Source: Chattanooga Times Free Press 2011-07-03T01:39:07Z)

Prince William, Kate greeted by protesters

Prince William, wearing a dark blue suit, and Kate, dressed in a grey, fitted knee-length Kensington dress by British designer Catherine Walker, each wielded a shovel as they helped plant a Canadian hemlock—a tree known for its longevity meant to ... (Source: Big Hollywood 2011-07-03T01:31:58Z)

Beach balls abound at day 2 of Super Ball IX

"I drink beers, hang out, play some guitar, and just kind of kick back," Heller said. "It's a great place to relax, and it's beautiful weather, thank God." Aside from making music, folks found other ways of entertaining themselves and others. Brandon Ayers ... (Source: Star-Gazette 2011-07-03T01:46:17Z)

Vulnerable feel the pinch of Minnesota government shutdown

The shutdown halted non-emergency road construction and closed the state zoo and Capitol. More than 40 state boards and agencies went dark, though critical functions such as state troopers, prison guards, the courts and disaster responses will continue. (Source: Kansas City Star 2011-07-03T03:12:11Z)

Transformers: Dark of the Moon movie review: brain-numbing Baynality

That applies double — no, triple — to Transformers: Dark of the Moon , the third installment in a series dedicated to dishing out the most intensely onerous big budget "entertainment" turn of the century cinema has to offer. Shia LaBeouf reprises ... (Source: Crikey 2011-07-03T02:00:36Z)

Albert, Charlene set for Monaco religious wedding

Several thousand Monegasques came out for the civil ceremony a day earlier, many of them sporting dark suits or evening gowns and heels, despite the scorching temperatures. One of the attendees, 72-year-old Marie Malghreli, was still glowing from her ... (Source: MSN Entertainment 2011-07-02T13:36:08Z)

Los Alamos lab prepares to reopen as fire threat eases

"We, the generation of today, have seen a beautiful canyon and traditional lands that have been our home for centuries destroyed in a matter of days," Santa Clara Pueblo Governor Walter Dasheno said, pleading for emergency federal assistance. "Our canyon ... (Source: msnbc.com 2011-07-03T03:26:30Z)

Tigers found a gem: Victor Martinez adds productivity, character

It's quiz time as we move toward the All-Star break with a half-season of numbers and measurements at hand. The quiz is more a test of memory. Specifically, as teams and players stepped into the free-agent marketplace last November, what player would a ... (Source: Detroit News 2011-07-03T03:19:20Z)

Tech News Briefs | Microsoft officially offers Web-based Office suite

Go Daddy Group Inc.'s sale to KKR, Silver Lake and Technology Crossover Ventures comes as the company expects to top $1.1 billion in revenue this year because expanding Internet use has fueled the creation of more websites and the domains needed to help find them. (Source: Desert Sun 2011-07-03T01:24:48Z)

Unable to agree on budget, Minnesota government shuts down

The shutdown halted non-emergency road construction and closed the state zoo and Capitol. More than 40 state boards and agencies went dark, though critical functions such as state troopers, prison guards, the courts and disaster responses will continue. (Source: Spartanburg Herald-Journal 2011-07-03T01:31:58Z)

Deals of the Hour / July 2, 2011, 6:49 pm

Sullivan: Terry Collins' team still has more hills to climb

The Yankees have won six straight, taking control of this one with a three-run first inning that included three straight hits by Nick Swisher, Curtis Granderson and Mark Teixeira. "On a scale of one to 10, about 20 – our confidence is sky high," Swisher said. (Source: NorthJersey.com 2011-07-03T00:27:32Z)

Jaromir Jagr signs with Flyers after Penguins, Red Wings pull offers

Jagr has 646 goals and 1,599 points in 18 NHL seasons. "We made what we thought was a very fair contract offer to Jaromir on Tuesday, based on his stated interest of returning to the Penguins," Pittsburgh general manager Ray Shero said. "We made our best ... (Source: Pioneer Press 2011-07-03T00:06:04Z)

Prince William, Kate greeted by protesters

Prince William, wearing a dark blue suit, and Kate, dressed in a grey, fitted knee-length Kensington dress by British designer Catherine Walker, each wielded a shovel as they helped plant a Canadian hemlock — a tree known for its longevity meant to ... (Source: The Guardian 2011-07-02T23:44:35Z)

LaBeouf bows out of 'Transformers' franchise

Shia LaBeouf's days of battling the Decepticons look to be over, with the "Transformers" star saying he has nothing more to offer after three films playing ... at the recent opening of "Transformers: Dark of the Moon" at the Moscow International ... (Source: Desert Sun 2011-07-03T00:41:51Z)

Crowds cheer Monaco's Prince Albert and new bride

Albert met Wittstock at a swimming competition in 2000. "I think she's beautiful and she shows a lot of class and nobility and I think he made a wonderful choice," said Steven Pomeranz, who had lined up to cheer the couple. After the ceremony, well-wishers ... (Source: Reuters 2011-07-03T01:31:58Z)

Royals tour Canada, Monaco gets a new princess

"They'll be remembered as princesses — beautiful, radiant princesses," Martin said ... while Albert wore a sober dark suit and white tie. Saturday's Roman Catholic ceremony will also take place in the palace, followed by a gala dinner by famed ... (Source: Chattanooga Times Free Press 2011-07-03T01:39:07Z)

Jagr claims hurned down more money to join Flyers

Jeff Carter, Ville Leino and Brian Boucher, among others. The 39-year-old Jagr spent the past three seasons playing in Russia. This week he mulled a one-year offer to rejoin the Penguins, his original team, before deciding to play for the Flyers. (Source: Pittsburgh Post-Gazette 2011-07-03T00:49:01Z)

Fireworks banned throughout South for July 4th

"You might think I'm easily entertained, but if it's a beautiful night and there's stars, that's a greater thing than fireworks," Hammond said. "I won't sit around sobbing without fireworks." (Source: CBS News 2011-07-03T01:10:29Z)

Texan wins controversial 'white man' scholarship

"And we all need it." The group's vice-president, Marcus Carter, is black. There are also two women and an Hispanic man on its board. "Right now everybody else has their own specific scholarship: Minorities, left-handed people, people who like the color ... (Source: Pocono Record 2011-07-03T01:24:48Z)

Prince William, Kate greeted by protesters in Montreal

Prince William, wearing a dark blue suit, and Kate, dressed in a grey, fitted knee-length Kensington dress by British designer Catherine Walker, each wielded a shovel as they helped plant a Canadian hemlock — a tree known for its longevity meant to ... (Source: Detroit News 2011-07-03T01:17:39Z)

How well did 'Transformers' perform? Depends who you ask

A headline can tell the entire story. But not in this case. How well did "Transformers: Dark of the Moon" perform at the box office when it opened Wednesday? Different news outlets put a different spin on the answer. "'Transformers: Dark of the Moon ... (Source: Washington Examiner 2011-07-02T23:58:54Z)

'Transformers' climbs to $120m, aims for records

LOS ANGELES - THE latest Transformers sequel might set some revenue records over the Fourth of July holiday weekend. 'Transformers: Dark of the Moon' has US$97.5 million (S$119.6 million) in the bank at the domestic box office since opening on Tuesday night. (Source: Straits Times 2011-07-02T23:58:54Z)

Albert, Charlene Wed in Monaco Religious Ceremony

Several thousand residents came out for the civil ceremony a day earlier, many of them sporting dark suits or evening gowns and heels despite the scorching temperatures. One of the attendees, 72-year-old Marie Malghreli, was still glowing from her family's ... (Source: FOX News 2011-07-03T00:41:51Z)

Scott cuts money for vets, kids — but not lobbyist

But amid the dark, depressing economics of 2011, Lauren's $1.5 million had the makings of a turkey – a turkey of the budgetary kind. Of course, state budget turkeys aren't the obvious affront to good government they used to be, before the Tea Party ... (Source: Miami Herald 2011-07-03T00:27:32Z)

Jagr: Turned down more money to join Flyers

The 39-year-old Jagr and former NHL MVP spent the past three seasons playing in Russia. This week he mulled over a one-year offer to rejoin the Penguins, his original team, before deciding to play on the other end of Pennsylvania. The Flyers' deal is worth ... (Source: KSDK 2011-07-03T00:27:32Z)

Yanks topple Columbia, advance to knockout stage of Women's World Cup

Heather O'Reilly opened things up for the Americans after scoring a goal on a beautiful right-footed bullet shot from outside the box. The Columbians managed to foil the succeeding offensive attacks from the Americans and held the score to 1-0 after the first-half. (Source: All Headline News 2011-07-03T01:39:07Z)

NBA needs changes, but can't afford a long lockout

Players had proposed reducing their salaries by $500 million over five years, which Commissioner David Stern called a "modest" offer. -- Salary cap: In their initial proposal in 2010, the owners called for a hard salary cap system. They switched to a "flex ... (Source: AZCentral.com 2011-07-03T01:31:58Z)

Deals of the Hour / July 2, 2011, 4:49 pm

The Harry Potter phenomenon

Marvin Berglas, creator of Marvin's Magic, which has a range of magic products and is enjoying "record sales", said the brand saw a "great deal of interest" following the first Potter books and films. Membership of Marvin's Magic Club has trebled since ... (Source: The Independent 2011-07-02T22:54:29Z)

Tensions rise on Capitol Hill as America runs out of money

If a deal cannot be reached before 2 August, the treasury says it will be forced to default on its debts. No one knows quite what that means yet. Will it choose to stop paying interest, a move that could trigger a global financial crisis? Or will ... (Source: The Guardian 2011-07-02T23:15:57Z)

Obama: ending tax breaks required to cut US deficit

Obama, a Democrat, is locked in a dispute with Republicans over how to bring down the U.S. deficit as part of a deal to raise the debt ceiling and prevent Washington from default. Democrats insist that some tax increases be included in a deficit-cutting package. (Source: Reuters 2011-07-02T09:54:14Z)

Minnesota Shutdown: Political Fireworks Display Instead

Minnesota's Democratic Governor Mark Dayton blames the Republican majorities in both legislative bodies, and the GOP majorities blame the governor for the failure to reach a budget deal before this week's deadline. Budget talks fell apart late Thursday ... (Source: Christian Post 2011-07-02T22:33:00Z)

The NBA lockout has begun, and so has the posturing

Only an 11th-hour uprising by the rank-and-file enabled Hunter to make a deal in the early hours of Jan. 6, hours before the owners were to vote on shutting down. The New York Times' Murray Chass, whose frame of reference was the baseball players' union ... (Source: Los Angeles Times 2011-07-02T23:01:38Z)

Jerry Brown signs California budget without fanfare

In fact, many were happy that a deal was not struck because it meant that taxes would drop back to pre-2009 levels July 1, the first day of the new fiscal year. Assembly Republican Leader Connie Conway, R-Visalia, claimed credit for blocking tax extensions. (Source: San Jose Mercury News 2011-07-01T03:50:21Z)

Strauss-Kahn Freed on Own Recognizance

A few minutes later, Strauss-Kahn, clean shaven and dressed in a dark blue business suit, walked out of the courtroom into bright sunlight, his arm around his wife. His next hearing is scheduled for July 18, at which time all the charges could be dropped ... (Source: FOXBusiness 2011-07-02T03:49:09Z)

Strauss-Kahn steps out on first day of freedom in NYC

Former French government minister Jack Lang said he spoke with Sinclair to offer the couple moral support. Lang, who has known Strauss-Kahn since the 1970s, urged him to go back to France and join the 2012 presidential race. "He could be a good candidate ... (Source: msnbc.com 2011-07-02T23:30:16Z)

Obama: "Nothing can be off-limits" in budget

With an Aug. 2 deadline looming to raise the government borrowing limit, the president used his weekly radio and Internet address to call on Congress to make a deal. He also renewed his call for Congress to eliminate some tax breaks for the well-off as ... (Source: CBS News 2011-07-02T15:16:21Z)

Panel discussion: NBA experts weigh in on the lockout

15. I don't think players are going to agree to a 10-year deal. The longest they've shown a willingness to go is six. When the current deal was ratified in 2005, the owners thought it was a great deal for them. So you never can tell. It'll be at least a ... (Source: Daily Oklahoman 2011-07-02T23:01:38Z)

A Game of Give and Take

Let's preface this entire "lockout/work stoppage" issue with a simple truth: No matter who is right and who wrong - the owners will "win" in the end because their offer still outstrips ... the rest of the lot should be able to deal with "only" getting ... (Source: CelticsBlog 2011-07-02T00:50:12Z)

The Fans Own the Magic

DARGIS In anticipating the first Harry Potter film Anne Collins Smith, then an assistant professor at Susquehanna University in Pennsylvania, peered into her crystal ball and gave dark warning. "It will take a strong individual indeed to say, ... (Source: New York Times 2011-07-02T23:01:38Z)

Minnesota Government 'Shuts Down' Over Budget Impasse

Republicans are in control for the first time in 40 years in Minnesota. In a press conference shortly before the deadline for reaching a deal passed, Dayton said, "One basic difference remains. They don't want to raise revenues on anyone and I believe ... (Source: The Heartland Institute 2011-07-01T21:51:15Z)

Jagr: Turned down more money to join Flyers

This week he mulled a one-year offer to rejoin the Penguins, his original team, before deciding to play for the Flyers. The Flyers' deal is worth $3.3 million ... had the Flyers held on to Richards and Carter. But if they were here, Jagr might be in ... (Source: FOX News 2011-07-02T23:23:07Z)

NFL, players have no deal on revenue split

But they had little to offer for an update. "We'll continue to meet next week, and the goal is to get a deal done," Smith said on his way out. Said NFL lead negotiator Jeff Pash: "We'll be back at it again next week." Friday marked the fourth ... (Source: Nashville Tennessean 2011-07-02T23:23:07Z)

Jurors see scant evidence in Casey Anthony trial

During opening statements in May, prosecutors said Caylee was suffocated with duct tape by a mother who loved to party, tattooed herself with the Italian words for "beautiful life" in ... Nor did they offer proof of the molestation allegations, which ... (Source: Gainesville Sun 2011-07-02T23:01:38Z)

Minnesota Government Shutdown Begins, No End In Sight

More than 40 state boards and agencies went dark, though critical functions such as state troopers ... So far, 30 agencies had accepted United Way's offer of advances on their grants, seeking cash to stay up and running. The stoppage suspended some ... (Source: Huffingtonpost.com 2011-07-02T14:33:24Z)

Cuts for thee, not for me

State-owned and state-affiliated universities, public schools, the Department of Environmental Protection and a host of social service agencies throughout Pennsylvania have begun scrambling to deal with massive cuts imposed upon them in the new state budget. (Source: Scranton Times-Tribune 2011-07-02T23:15:57Z)

Closing arguments Sunday in Casey Anthony trial

The trial was delayed all morning so Baez could interview two state witnesses who he said were going to offer new opinions related to the Caylee's autopsy. As it turned out, those witnesses spent only a few minutes each on the witness stand in the afternoon. (Source: msnbc.com 2011-07-01T23:38:37Z)

Jaromir Jagr: Turned down more money to join Philadelphia Flyers

Jagr's acquisition is a big part of the Flyers' offseason overhaul that has seen them jettison key cogs Mike Richards, Jeff Carter ... offer to rejoin the Penguins, his original team, before deciding to play for the Flyers. The Flyers' deal is ... (Source: Patriot-News Blogs 2011-07-02T23:08:48Z)

Dominique Strauss-Kahn Out On Bail: Accuser's Lies Jeopardize DSK Case, Experts Say

His passport remains surrendered and he can't leave the country. Former French government minister Jack Lang said he spoke with Strauss-Kahn's wife, Anne Sinclair, to offer the couple moral support. Lang told the AP on Saturday that she is relieved but ... (Source: Huffingtonpost.com 2011-07-02T23:23:07Z)

Analysis: Brown hedges his political bets with veto of farmworker 'card check' bill

Some Democrats say Gov. Jerry Brown checkmated their hopes Tuesday with his last-minute veto of the "card check" bill for farm workers, but analysts say he's playing a bigger game of chess. The United Farm Workers, whom Brown courted last year by reminding ... (Source: Santa Cruz Sentinel 2011-07-02T23:44:35Z)

Deals of the Hour / July 2, 2011, 2:49 pm

Tom Hanks leads scooter craze

"We should all be on these scooters, Los Angeles should look like Taipei," he beamed. "Hey it's dirt cheap and you have the wind blowing through your hair on a beautiful day like today." Hanks plays a man forced to ride a scooter in tough economic times in ... (Source: USA Today 2011-07-02T20:59:57Z)

'Larry Crowne'

The real reason to watch this modestly charming, featherweight bauble is the chemistry between Hanks and Roberts, beloved superstars who make a beautiful pair. "Larry Crowne" is only their second movie together (after "Charlie Wilson's War"), but Hanks ... (Source: Miami Herald 2011-07-02T01:47:28Z)

A look at Thailand's general election

If neither captures an outright majority - as seems likely - then smaller established parties will hold the balance of power, and bargain hard for significant Cabinet posts. The Democrat Party is the country's oldest, but has not placed first in an ... (Source: Associated Press 2011-07-02T19:48:22Z)

Jurors see scant evidence in Casey Anthony trial

During opening statements in May, prosecutors said Caylee was suffocated with duct tape by a mother who loved to party, tattooed herself with the Italian words for "beautiful life" in the month her daughter was missing and crafted elaborate lies to mislead ... (Source: AP - msnbc.com 2011-07-02T20:45:38Z)

In Hindsight: Google+, Zynga's IPO, Justin Timberlake, Biz Stone and other tech changes

Google+ has a beautiful (Facebook-like) design and features Facebook doesn't have (yet), but unfortunately most of your friends haven't signed up (yet). Speaking of social media, there was a big departure at San Francisco microblogging upstart Twitter ... (Source: San Jose Mercury News 2011-07-02T18:58:16Z)

Happy 25th Birthday, Lindsay Lohan

On March 10, 2011, her ninth court appearance in ten months, Lohan was given two weeks to choose between a plea deal or a trial; she soon rejected a plea bargain. Could the troubled starlet's quarter-century birthday finally mark the beginning of the end ... (Source: Pop Eater 2011-07-02T20:38:28Z)

Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic to meet in Wimbledon men's final

1 status by withstanding a barrage of artistic and athletic points from the 6-foot-2, 200-pound Tsonga. The Frenchman tumbled and twisted and twirled his body around the court and brought the crowd to its feet in the third-set tiebreaker when he saved two ... (Source: Los Angeles Times 2011-07-02T06:19:29Z)

On her 50th, fans gather to remember Diana

"They all died young. They'll be remembered as princesses — beautiful, radiant, princesses." John Loughrey, a 56-year-old who attends just about every Diana-themed event, was the man behind the custom-made cake bearing her name in pink. He said Diana was ... (Source: msnbc.com 2011-07-01T20:11:02Z)

Google may be poised to bid for Hulu

Hulu began presenting its financial information to potential suitors this week after an unsolicited expression of interest prompted the board to consider a sale. Technology heavyweights including Microsoft Corp. are evaluating whether Hulu would further ... (Source: Los Angeles Times 2011-07-02T07:09:35Z)

Monaco finally gets princess

Long regarded as one of Europe's most eligible bachelors and reputed for his string of romances with some of the world's most beautiful women, 53-year-old Albert long eschewed marriage. His reticence to settle down was known to have exasperated his ... (Source: Fort Wayne Journal Gazette 2011-07-02T16:49:25Z)

Why there's no messing with Texas

"The crowd was sprinkled with 'Keep America Beautiful' and 'Keep Texas Beautiful' folks, and our audience is 18-to-24 young males," McClure said. "The 'Keep Texas Beautiful' lady said, 'Can we at least say please?' I said, 'No ma'am, you cannot use the ... (Source: CNN 2011-07-01T20:53:59Z)

'Larry Crowne': It's Forrest Gump Meets Julia Roberts

Like Larry Crowne, I had a garage sale in the Valley. When I saw Larry Crowne smiling during the garage sale of his possessions, I recalled this six-year period in which I suffered from an inability to let go. People, wise people, had told me to walk away. (Source: TheWrap 2011-07-02T16:49:25Z)

Royals tour Canada, Monaco gets a new princess

"They'll be remembered as princesses — beautiful, radiant princesses," Martin said. Diana also was on the minds of some Canadians in the crowd greeting her son, William, and his wife. "Happy Birthday Lady Di. Canadians love you," read one sign held up ... (Source: CBS News 2011-07-02T07:45:23Z)

No Pause in Pursuit of Justice (and Ratings)

Since the trial began, the tale has grown only more twisted, with accusations of incest and adultery and depictions of a mother who was so depraved and indifferent that she went shopping and got tattooed while volunteers were searching for her daughter. (Source: New York Times 2011-07-01T22:55:40Z)

Google's Social Blowout

So MySpace was pushed out the door in short order, never mind the bargain-basement sale price. And unfortunately that meant many, many layoffs -- more than half its staff, reportedly. So who's the lucky buyer? That would be an outfit called Specific Media. (Source: TechNewsWorld 2011-07-02T11:12:58Z)

Prince Albert & Charlene Wittstock Wed in Religious Ceremony

"Before, she was jogging all the time. Now, she's acquired a taste for fashion and become a beautiful woman." Wittstock grew up in Zimbabwe and spent most of her childhood pursuing her Olympic swimming career and playing with animals. "We'd have weekends ... (Source: People 2011-07-02T15:52:09Z)

Transformers: Dark of the Moon: Review By Yahzee

And while Rosie Huntington Whiteley is in my opinion a lot more beautiful than Megan Fox, her character is also a lot more meaningful and natural to the plot. You can tell she knows she looks great and has the money, but never lets any of that go over her ... (Source: MovieWeb 2011-07-02T19:41:13Z)

For a day, world is flush with royals

"They'll be remembered as princesses, beautiful, radiant princesses," Martin said. Diana also was on the minds of some Canadians in the crowd greeting her son, William, and his wife. "Happy Birthday Lady Di. Canadians love you," read one sign held up ... (Source: Tampa Bay Online 2011-07-02T04:03:28Z)

Deals of the Hour / July 2, 2011, 12:44 pm

Apple, Microsoft And Others Outbid Google To Win Coveted Nortel Patents

Google declined to comment for this article, but called the auction results "disappointing." Lazard Ltd advised Nortel in the deal, while Jefferies advised its creditors. Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld LLP was legal adviser to Nortel's creditors ... (Source: Huffingtonpost.com 2011-07-02T18:15:19Z)

In Hindsight: Google+, Zynga's IPO, Justin Timberlake, Biz Stone and other tech changes

Google+ has a beautiful (Facebook-like) design and features Facebook doesn't have (yet), but unfortunately most of your friends haven't signed up (yet). Speaking of social media, there was a big departure at San Francisco microblogging upstart Twitter ... (Source: San Jose Mercury News 2011-07-02T18:58:16Z)

Imperfect accusers common in sex assault cases

Timeline: Dominique Strauss-Kahn (on this page) Even without a credible witness, prosecutors could offer a deal to Strauss-Kahn — for instance, dropping the four more serious felony charges against him, which carry up to 25 years' imprisonment ... (Source: msnbc.com 2011-07-02T18:58:16Z)

NBA lockout strips team websites of player images

The NFL locked out its players in March, but its website is still filled with videos of touchdown celebrations and news updates. Why? The NFL negotiated its licensing deal separately from its CBA, thus sidestepping this issue. (Source: Allentown Morning Call 2011-07-02T19:12:35Z)

Google braces for illegal drug ad fine

Califano, a former aide to President Lyndon Johnson and a Cabinet secretary under Jimmy Carter, told Schmidt that his research had found "prominent displays of ads for rogue internet pharmacies in a Google search for controlled drugs." "This suggests that ... (Source: CNN Money 2011-07-01T12:25:44Z)

Medicare paving way to health care accountability

The three-year deal between Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois , which has nearly 7 million health plan members, and Advocate Health Care, which operates a network of 10 hospitals and more than 250 clinics throughout Illinois, calls for Advocate to ... (Source: Chicago Tribune 2011-07-02T19:41:13Z)

Rockets push back rebels south of Libyan capital

Gaddafi's daughter, Aisha, said in a television interview broadcast late on Thursday her father's administration was prepared to cut a deal with the rebels if that ... reaction from either side to the offer. A document seen by Reuters at the end of the ... (Source: msnbc.com 2011-07-01T23:38:37Z)

Jaromir Jagr says he turned down more money to make lreturn to NHL with Flyers

This week he mulled over a one-year offer to rejoin the Penguins, his original team, before deciding to play on the other end of Pennsylvania. The Flyers' deal is worth US$3.3 million. Jagr did not name the teams he said offered more money. Jagr says he ... (Source: FOX News 2011-07-02T19:12:35Z)

Judge lifts house arrest, bail for Strauss-Kahn

"He's a seducer, not an attacker," Taylor said in a phone interview, adding that the district attorney had not offered a plea deal to reduce the charges. "We wouldn't take one if he did, because Mr. Strauss-Kahn is not guilty." The defense team's next step ... (Source: Los Angeles Times 2011-07-02T00:43:03Z)

'FarmVille' creator Zynga to go public

LinkedIn's co-founder and executive chairman Reid Hoffman, now a billionaire, belongs to Zynga's board of directors. The daily deals site Groupon Inc. has also filed its initial IPO papers. Zynga is expected to attract even greater interest than LinkedIn ... (Source: KABC 2011-07-02T01:26:00Z)

A Game of Give and Take

Let's preface this entire "lockout/work stoppage" issue with a simple truth: No matter who is right and who wrong - the owners will "win" in the end because their offer ... to deal with "only" getting 3-5 million dollars annually on 1-3 year deals. (Source: CelticsBlog 2011-07-02T00:50:12Z)

Hoopla surrounds final shuttle launch

"Hopefully, it will go the first time and they'll have to deal with the traffic just once," Magnus said with a laugh. Atlantis' journey to the space station will mark the 135th shuttle flight. (Source: Detroit News 2011-07-02T18:58:16Z)

NBA joins NFL in lockout

Despite a three-hour meeting Thursday and a final proposal from the players -- which NBA leaders said would have raised average player salaries to $7 million in the sixth year of the deal -- the sides ... moved by the players' offer to drop it to 54.3 ... (Source: Crescent-News 2011-07-02T18:01:00Z)

Wimbledon 2011: What Petra Kvitova's Finals Win, Maria Sharapova's Loss Mean

She already has a contract with Nike (though presumably a far less lucrative one than Sharapova's record-setting deal ), and additional endorsements from all sorts of non-tennis companies should come in the next several months. But winning so decisively on ... (Source: SBNation.com 2011-07-02T18:29:38Z)

Jagr unapologetic for not signing with Penguins

"I learned a lot from them," he said. He spoke longer about not signing with Pittsburgh than any other subject, indicating that he was upset that so many believed a handshake deal with the Penguins was in place. Jagr said that he thinks Philadelphia has an ... (Source: Pittsburgh Tribune-Review 2011-07-02T19:26:54Z)

As Net Stocks Sizzle, Zynga Aims High for Its I.P.O.

The company is expected to ultimately offer up to 10 percent of its shares at a valuation ... Groupon, the giant daily deals site, filed last month for its offering. Its rival LivingSocial is said to be speaking with bankers about an offering. (Source: Star-Banner 2011-07-02T18:08:09Z)

Jurors see scant evidence in Casey Anthony trial

During opening statements in May, prosecutors said Caylee was suffocated with duct tape by a mother who loved to party, tattooed herself with the Italian words for "beautiful life" in ... Nor did they offer proof of the molestation allegations, which ... (Source: Boston Herald 2011-07-02T19:05:25Z)

Strauss-Kahn leaves townhouse in NYC for unknown destination; judge lifted house arrest

He said she suffered bruises and torn ligaments. Former French government minister Jack Lang said he spoke with Sinclair to offer the couple moral support. Lang, who has known Strauss-Kahn since the 1970s, urged him to come back to France and join the 2012 ... (Source: Grand Forks Herald 2011-07-02T18:58:16Z)

Jagr sets no goals for his NHL return

The only problem is that Penguins GM Ray Shero never intended to get into a bidding war for Jagr and did not want to move off his initial offer of a one year contract ... not traded away Mike Richards and Jeff Carter . "There is always going to be pressure. (Source: FOX News 2011-07-02T19:12:35Z)

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