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Ryan Hemsworth Wary Of Becoming The Millennial 'Weird' Al Yankovic

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One look at Canadian producer Ryan Hemsworth’s Twitter account and it’s clear why he is the DJ to represent the generation known as the Millennials. Listed as one of Rolling Stone’s “50 Things Millennials Know That Gen-Xers Don’t,” Hemsworth is aware that his moody remixes of current hits as well as his nostalgia-clad online presence (his Twitter profile features an animation of him holding the Pokemon character Pikachu) has created a very fine demographic of followers.

“I understand why they’d say that,” Hemsworth says, of his direct association to said generation group. “I think it’s because of the stuff that I reference, the nostalgia; I can’t seem to not bring it up on my Twitter but I’m just being myself and being goofy online and people respond to that on a personal level.”

As much as Hemsworth embraces the Internet and its ability to connect him with thousands of fans in such an immediate environment, he hopes that his cartoonish personality doesn't devolve into parody. He adds, “I’m realizing there's a line and I don't want to become too cheesy.”

Hemsworth, who has been known to project kooky images of classic video games and Internet memes at his live shows, admits that people who attend his show now regularly shower him with gifts such as Pokemon cards which get thrown onstage while he performs. He assures that these items are welcome but the man his label bio notes is sometimes called “The Internet Zack Morris” and “The Remix Ryan Gosling” wants to remind both his supporters and himself that he's serious. “I don't want to be Weird Al Yankovic.”

And of course his musical output is nothing like Weird Al’s, though it may boast just as many cultural references. Last year, Hemsworth put out two releases, his "Still Awake" EP followed by his Last Gang Records debut album, "Guilt Trips."

"I've kind of been put into this DJ work whether I wanted to or not, but I definitely come from a more rock background,” Hemsworth reveals, when asked why an album matters to an Internet-paced producer like him. "I just wanted to show that I am still a part of the world that I wanted to be a part of and hopefully albums still matter, I think they do."

Another aspect of rock that Hemsworth holds on to, though he can't achieve as easily as putting out a full-length, is the idea of a concert or performance rather than a party at a club, his default venue. In fact, Hemsworth admits that the only time he's ever at the club is when he’s performing, but that he craves the intimacy of a smaller gig.

“I did a live stream from my bathtub once and that was the most fun I had,” he admits, adding that his ideal show would involve a certain sense of closeness as well as some candles, perhaps. "Kind of like when Nirvana did their 'MTV Unplugged' session.

“If I could find someway to make that work, that would be ideal. Huge EDM festivals are just so detached, it doesn’t work in that context.”

Lindsay Lohan At Sundance To Announce New Film, 'Inconceivable'

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PARK CITY, Utah (AP) — With a film crew capturing every moment, Lindsay Lohan made a high-profile debut at the Sundance Film Festival, announcing a new film and a "fresh start."

The 27-year-old, who is attempting a comeback after well-documented battles with drugs and legal troubles, came to the independent cinema showcase Monday to say she will produce and star in a film called "Inconceivable," set to start shooting in March. A crew from OWN, which is airing a reality series about Lohan, filmed the actress's news conference. Reporters were told that if they asked personal questions, they would be escorted out.

Most performers and producers at Sundance have films showing at the festival and don't come just to announce a planned production — those are usually announced through news releases. But producer and financier Randall Emmett, who sat beside Lohan, said Sundance is "just a special place for us to announce this film." He called Lohan "one of the greatest young actresses of her generation."

Lohan, who emerged from her latest rehab stint last year and remains on probation for a necklace theft and for lying to police about a car crash, said she is grateful to be at Sundance and back in the movie business.

"I've never had the honor of coming here before ... to bring something to the table, which is starting fresh for me," said Lohan, smiling broadly. "And I'm filming my Oprah docu-series right now, so I get to that to the people who have been watching that as well.

"It's a nice change to be back among people that are in the industry that I've been in since I was a kid."

She described the film as a psychological thriller about a woman trying to reclaim something she lost, adding that she "related to the character in a lot of ways."

Emmett said Lohan found the script and insisted they make it together.

"She read the script, she called, she said, 'We're making this movie, are you in or out?'" he recalled. "I said, 'I'm in.'"

Lohan will also help select the director and cast the film, he said, adding that he expects a director to be announced next week.

Emmett said moviegoers "are going to really be shocked when they see Lindsay take this role on." Lionsgate will release the film, he said.

Though Lohan served as an executive producer on her universally panned 2013 film "The Canyons," her producing role is even larger this time around.

"It's therapeutic for me to throw myself into something that really excites me and something that I love to do so much," she said. "There's nothing better than having seen all of your ideas and thoughts that you've been thinking about to come to fruition and to share that with people. I think that's why I've always loved making movies so much. So it's nice to be able to have another position in the film rather than just showing up and being on the set."

No director or co-stars have been announced, but Lohan already has plenty of ideas.

"I even approached Juliette Lewis and was emailing some other people," she said.

And she has a dream co-star: "I don't know if she would do it, but I would die if she did: Jessica Lange."

___

Follow AP Entertainment Writer Sandy Cohen at http://www.twitter.com/APSandy .

Sting And Paul Simon Rehearsing For Upcoming Tour

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PASADENA, Calif. (AP) — Sting and Paul Simon are rehearsing for their upcoming tour, a couple of longtime friends and neighbors preparing to take turns singing some of each other's biggest hits.

It was Simon's idea for the tour, hatched when he came downstairs in their New York apartment building to ask if Sting would be interested. Of course, Sting told him, having first heard Simon & Garfunkel when he was a 15-year-old in England. "He's the master," Sting said Monday by satellite from New York. "If I ever wanted to emulate a literary and literate songwriter, then Paul Simon would be the person I would go to."

They have started the process of selecting the set list for the tour, which opens Feb. 8 in Houston. Sting said Simon has asked him to sing "Bridge Over Troubled Water," and Sting asked if they could include "America."

"Paul had a long partnership with Art Garfunkel for many, many years, and it's not my job to impersonate Art," Sting said. "He has one of the most iconic, beautiful voices in the history of rock 'n' roll. But my job is to interpret and honor the notes and the lyrics that have been written, and I will be me. But I'm delighted to sing songs from that canon."

Simon is eager to sing Sting's songs "Fields of Gold" and "Fragile."

"I think the gentler side of my repertoire interests him," Sting told the Television Critics Association while promoting his PBS special, "Sting: The Last Ship," airing Feb. 21 on "Great Performances."

The two men, separated by a 10-year age difference, first sang together at a charity benefit in New York last year. Sting said he was surprised by how well his voice blended with that of the 72-year-old Simon.

"He will pick up something of my energy, and I'll pick up some of his," he said. "Again, it's a learning experience."

At times, they'll blend their respective bands, the specifics of which are still being worked out.

"It may evolve into a big bash, sort of battle of the bands, if you like," Sting said. "With musicians of that caliber, when you stick them on the same stage, they all raise their game, and there's a little bit of competitive spirit, but a great deal of understanding and sensitivity. I think it's going to be fantastic."

Jennifer Lopez Speaks Candidly About Her Love Life

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Love is the operative word in J.Lo's personal life, as she's happy being mom to twins Max and Emme, who turn six on Feb. 22, as well as happily involved with her former backup dancer Casper Smart. Here, she talks candidly about life and love.

YourTango: Would you like to get married again?
Jennifer Lopez: I don't know. We'll see. I always believed in that institution. My parents were married for a very long time — they were married for 35 years. I believe in it. It's difficult. I've had my challenges. But at the same time I believe in love and I think that's the main thing.

Justin Bieber Shells Out $75,000 At Miami Strip Club: Reports

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Justin Bieber reportedly "went wild" this week, shelling out tens of thousands of dollars at a Miami strip club.

According to TMZ, the Beebs was at the King of Diamonds strip club in Miami early Tuesday morning. It's believed that the 19-year-old singer was there to celebrate his friend Lil Scrappy's birthday.

The Miami New Times reports that Bieber was only at the strip club for about an hour, but the pop sensation still appears to have made his presence felt.

At 4 a.m., the club tweeted that the "Baby" singer was flaunting his wealth with a hefty order of dollar bills:




Though Bieber has developed a troublemaker's reputation of late (he's still under investigation for allegedly egging his neighbor's house), club promoter and musician Disco Rick told the New Times that Bieber behaved like a gentleman during his time at the strip club.

"He paid dancers out of his pocket in their hands with large bills and didn't make it rain," he said.

This isn't the first time in recent months that Bieber has been spotted at a strip club. In October, a dancer at a Houston strip club said that the pop star touched her derriere during his visit to the venue.

My Brother the Rock Star

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The backstage passes get the fans stirred up.

"How did you get that?" they ask. Or even,"Who are you?" or "Why do you get to go backstage?"

I usually say, "Well, the lead guitarist is an old friend," and the yearning in their eyes deepens.

But he's not "the lead guitarist" to me. He is an old friend. We go back over 40 years, the rock star and me--and he shall remain nameless. Sorry. This isn't about that guy onstage. It's about the man I know.

We met at the beginning of his career and mine. I had just signed on as a rock critic and features reporter for the Chicago Sun Times. His career was on the brink of taking off into the proverbial stratosphere -- but we didn't know that yet.

And we bonded the moment we met. Don't get it twisted -- he's been married the whole time. And I was immensely fond of his beautiful wife -- a stunning pair they are. And fiercely devoted to each other.

In fact, since his wife suffered a massive brain hemorrhage a few years ago, he has been a tireless caretaker, flying home every chance he gets to be part of her recovery team. When he talks about the progress she's made, the love lights up his eyes. And I am again reminded that it's the man, not the "rock god" onstage, who impresses me most.

We are children of Chicago's South Side. He attended the almost entirely black high school I would have gone to if my parents hadn't decided, like most of the black middle class of that era, to move away from the inner city. And we both have that unique South Side swagger -- working class heroes, our parents and relations. And we're damned proud of it.

He and his band mates took that work ethic, and the swagger, to the stage. And it catapulted them to stardom, as the saying goes. I put it into my writing. And it got me to the Sun Times and into magazines worldwide.

But we lost touch for a very long time after I pulled out of the fast lane, feeling way too close to a serious "crash and burn." People still ask me how I could walk away from such a "glamorous" career. It's impossible to explain it fully.

So here's the Cliff Notes version: The newspaper was in turmoil and so was I. So when the love of my life got a job offer he couldn't refuse, I packed up and moved to the wild Southwest with him. And never looked back.

Until I saw my "brother" on VH1, with the "new" band while channel surfing one night about five years ago.

I was mesmerized.

He still looked like that kid I met back in the 70's. And his new band literally rocked the house -- the walls shook. And I teared up. And went to Google up a contact address.

The reunion took place in a most unlikely venue -- a gorgeous Native American-owned casino resort of the kind many bands of that era play between stadium gigs. The band was even better in person than on TV, and the fans stood up and even on their seats the whole time.

In fact, toward the end, the fans in back climbed over those seats to get closer to the stage, They have very demonstrative fans -- fans of all ages, not just Boomers, who still fill massive stadiums, too. Astounding, their "staying power."

After that show, we hugged the stuffing out of each other and picked up right where we'd left off. And we've been in touch and meeting regularly ever since.

I sometimes take my daughter along -- he loves that. She's about the age I was when he and I first met. And sometimes I think he sees me when he's looking at her. And those lights go on in his eyes. So lovely.

This time, in fact, he played the casino that her Hopi ancestry -- on her father's side -- allowed her to work for. And after hearing about some problems she'd been having there -- petty, envious co-workers -- he had a little talk with her about that.

And after the show, with a few of those co-workers looking on, he came out with the rest of the band to meet with me and friends and relations of other band members. In fact, we sat right out in the middle of the venue for an hour or more to give them a good look at her there schmoozing with the band they'd just worked for.

And then her "uncle" handed her a fist full of picks to hand out when she went back to work the next day. And I saw the lights go on in her eyes.

He sees the wonderful woman she's becoming -- the woman they pick on out of envy and insecurity. And in that moment, she saw that wonderful woman, too.

And the love rocks on.

Still want the name of that rock star? Cynthia Dagnal-Myron's book of essays, 'The Keka Collection,' can be purchased on Amazon.com.

Usher Is Stopping By 'Sesame Street' To Teach You The Meaning Of The Word Unique

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Looking to add a little more Usher to your life? Head over to PBS.

This Thursday (Jan. 23), the R&B star will appear with Bert on "Sesame Street" for the show's "word of the day" segment.

And it's an exciting one: The duo is on a mission to define the word "unique."

Check out a clip below:


Catch Usher on "Sesame Street" this Thursday, Jan. 23 on PBS.

Zac Efron 'In A Great Place' After Rehab: 'I Couldn't Be Happier'

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Zac Efron is speaking out about his stint in rehab last year, admitting he "couldn't be happier."

The 26-year-old actor opened up about his life after treatment during a press conference for "That Awkward Moment" on Tuesday (Jan. 21) in New York City, telling People, "I'm so happy. I feel like I'm in a great place and I'm glad that I'm really here to share this moment with everybody and be present for all of it."

Reports of Efron's stay in rehab surfaced in September. The actor allegedly completed treatment for alcohol abuse and cocaine addiction in the spring of 2013, with sources telling E! News, "He's healthy, happy and not drinking. He's taking time to focus on working."

"It was an interesting year. I learned so many things. So much," Efron told People. "The best part of it was being able to reflect upon that experience and realize how much I have learned about myself and the kind of man I want to be."

As for his latest project, Efron admits that reuniting with co-stars Michael B. Jordan and Miles Teller has been great.

"This movie, these guys and coming back to it and to New York -– just being here in this moment, it just kind of exemplifies it," he said. "I couldn't be happier. I'm in a great place."

Efron also spoke about his recovery on "The Today Show" Tuesday morning, telling Savannah Guthrie, "I'm in the best place that I've ever been in. I've never been this happy before. I'm extraordinarily grateful for these guys and to be here promoting this movie. Things are good. Thank you for asking."

'Scandal' Star Katie Lowes Was Connie Britton's Nanny Before She Made It Big

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Lots of actors work odd jobs before they get their big breaks, and it looks like Katie Lowes is no different. Her pay-the-bills gig was more glamorous than most, though.

The "Scandal" star was a nanny before she was cast in the series' pilot, and her boss was none other than Connie Britton.

Britton told E! News in a red carpet interview that Lowes looked after her young son Eyob before being cast as Quinn Perkins on "Scandal." Britton joked, "I was so upset when she got this little pilot. I think it was really pretty selfish on her part, I'll be honest."

So which gig was more intense for Lowes, looking after Britton's baby or having her tooth yanked out in Scandal's latest torture scene? The "Friday Night Lights" star admits that she's a pretty tough boss, saying, "I haven't gotten out my teeth pullers lately, but let's just say that Katie knew they were there. You know what I'm saying? I run a tight ship."

With so much experience, Lowes might be deemed the official on-set babysitter soon. Season 3 of "Scandal" was recently cut short by four episodes, likely due to Kerry Washington's pregnancy.

Head over to E! News to see Britton's whole red-carpet interview.

Dave Grohl Makes Another Trip To Chicago To Take In Pizza, The Joys Of The CTA (PHOTOS)

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Foo Fighters frontman Dave Grohl seems to have a hot piece in Chicago that keeps him coming back to the Windy City for more.

Piece -- of pizza, that is.

Grohl (sporting an excellent Canadian tuxedo) was spotted Monday evening with his fellow Foo Fighters bandmates while dining at Piece Pizzeria & Brewery in Wicker Park.




Grohl and friends were last spotted at Piece in June along with legendary music engineer (and Chiagoan) Steve Albini and Cheap Trick's Rick Nielsen.

A Piece employee told HuffPost Grohl is good friends with both Piece owner/operator Bill Jacobs and Nielsen, who is an investor in the restaurant.

In addition to some Windy City 'za, Eater Chicago reports Grohl also checked out Kuma's Corner.

At one point during the evening, Grohl decided even the purportedly poop-filled trains of the CTA wouldn't keep him from enjoying an 'L' ride.

A Twitter user's friend spotted Grohl -- looking more cheerful than anyone has a right to while riding public transit -- aboard the Brown Line Monday evening:




Eater floated the idea that the band may have been in town recording, based on an earlier tweet that the band's upcoming LP8 album would be recorded in studios in 12 different cities, including Chicago.

As Chicagoist said, maybe it's time to consider moving to the Windy City permanently. Regardless, thanks for visiting yet again, Dave!

Infamous Grammys Looks That Will Transport You Back In Time

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Let's face it, some people tune into the Grammys to watch some great performances, most people just want to catch a glimpse at what music's biggest stars will be rocking on the big night. (How could one forget Jennifer Lopez's jungle green Versace frock?)

From nipple pasties to thigh-high slits and well, eggs, here's a look at some of the most infamous Grammy Award looks of all time:

Shakira Releases 'Nunca Me Acuerdo De Olvidarte' Sans Rihanna (VIDEOS)

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Shakira definitely remembers how to write hits.

Just over a week after releasing her duet “Can’t Remember To Forget You” featuring Rihanna, the Colombian superstar has debuted the single’s Spanish version "Nunca Me Acuerdo de Olvidarte.”




Shaki’s first single since 2010 hit the No. 31 spot on the Pop Songs chart and No. 25 on the Latin Pop Songs chart in its first week, according to Billboard. Now the songstress is looking to win over her Spanish speaking fans with the new version posted on Vevo on Tuesday morning.

“I started out as a rock chick, believe it or not, and I wanted this album to reveal that. I wanted to go back to my roots,” the Barranquilla native said in an interview with VEVO.

Both songs will be featured in Shakira’s upcoming album, set to be released on March 25, and the singer will soon be returning to her revolving chair on NBC’s “The Voice” for Season 6.

The star admitted that her commitment to the hit talent show, along with becoming a mother last year, delayed the release of her album.

“It took me a while to get to a point where I was completely happy about this album and sure about every song in it,” Shakira told VEVO. “I always suffer through my creative process because it just takes time. It’s been hard to make an album with so many distractions, like having a baby in between and having to come back to America so many times to do “The Voice’.”

The singer also said that this was the first time she has welcomed the idea releasing an album featuring songs she has not at least co-written. Fans can expect collaborations with Sia and Ne-Yo, as well as Rihanna of course, in Shaki’s upcoming record.

“[W]orking with her was utopia,” Shakira told Glamour about her duet with Rihanna. “She’s the sexiest woman on the planet. And at the end of the day, we’re both just basically Caribbean girls. The chemistry was so good and so real. She taught me dance moves. She was a sweet teacher.”

Check out "Nunca Me Acuerdo de Olvidarte” above and Shaki’s English version featuring Rihanna below. Which version is your favorite?

First Look At Michael Phelps' Cameo On USA's 'Suits'

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Olympic swimmer Michael Phelps has traded his swimsuit for USA's "Suits" in an upcoming cameo on the cable series.

Last Summer it was first reported that Phelps would guest on the "Suits" mid-season premiere, and now here is the first photo from his appearance:




USA Today has additional details on Phelps' cameo, revealing that Abigail Spencer's character "is determined to land the star athlete for the [law] firm. They're at a restaurant when Phelps walks in. Spencer serves up some saucy dialogue and Phelps plays it cool."

Gabriel Macht, who plays Harvey Specter on the series commented on Phelps' acting abilities. "When it came to shooting, he turned out to be complete natural. We'd love to have him back," he told USA Today.

This isn't the first time that Phelps has guest starred as himself on a television series. Check out the clip below when Phelps made a cameo on HBO's "Entourage."



Michael Phelps' episode of "Suits" will air Mar. 6 on USA.

10 Of The Craziest Grammys Speeches Of All Time

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The Grammy Awards usually provide a nice balance of good clean fun and "Oh my god, that did not just happen." On par with the latter, here are 10 of the nuttiest acceptance speeches in the show's history:

Kim Kardashian, Kanye West Not Planning To Get Married At Palace Of Versailles

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It's a venue fit for a queen, but it's not what Kim Kardashian and Kanye West had in mind for their upcoming summer wedding.

Rumors have been swirling that the couple plan to tie the knot at the Palace of Versailles in France, but alas, that is not the case. West and Kardashian did in fact tour Marie Antoinette's former abode, but they aren't set to say "I do," inside the palace walls.

The Palace's official Twitter account set the record straight:



The couple was reportedly using their time in France to scout possible wedding venues, but we can't say we're surprised that the Palace of Versailles didn't make the cut. It just doesn't seem like a suitable place if one plans to include fighter jets at their wedding.

What Is The Real Cost Of Rising College Tuition Fees? Here's A Hint - It's Not Money

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The cost of getting a higher education isn't just increasing in America, it's happening in the United Kingdom as well. The more people find themselves in unbearable mountains of debt, the more their college experience must be compromised.

British actor, writer and comedian, David Mitchell, recounts going to university at a time where everyone got their fees paid for them. He argues that the real price of outrageous tuition is not money, but something far more valuable -- freedom to be creative, and a safe space for self-exploration.

"It was unthinkable that you'd have to pay your own fees," Mitchell says, adding, "everyone assumed that it seemed very normal and civilized, and as a result, you go, and you feel you've got a sense of possibility."

Today, students must think of their classes in terms of dollar signs, and get the most bang for their buck by treating college as a vocational school. Being "practical" translates to studying hard sciences, or taking classes that are directly applicable to post-college careers to pay back borrowed money. Majors like art, writing, and acting (most humanities majors for that matter) become luxury.

"And I think that whole free and easy, open-minded attitude to university could die as a result of that funding being withdrawn," he says.

So Mitchell raises a question: does the rising cost of tuition mean creative talents are being lost in the process?

My Night at the UNICEF Ball

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As a girl who was raised on the idea that we should give back to our community as much as possible, I believe that we have more power than we think when it comes to making change. Working with UNICEF has solidified that belief.

After teaming up with them for a few months, I am still excited that I get to work with one of the most hardworking humanitarian organizations in the world. Quite simply, they make an incredible difference in millions of children's lives, and I am so happy to help them in any way I possibly can. There's just something really special about being part of UNICEF, and after going to their Ball on Tuesday, I can tell everyone who works with them feels the same way.

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Photo credit: ©(DISNEY CHANNEL/Todd Wawrychuk)


Working With UNICEF

After having a lovely meeting with a representative from UNICEF in March, they asked me to be their Trick-or -Treat for UNICEF Ambassador in 2013. Naturally, I was ridiculously excited and said yes. A few months later, I started visiting schools and using my Twitter (gotta love social media!) to spread the word about Trick-or-Treat for UNICEF. There were so many aspects about the campaign that I loved. First, the fact that every little donation helped; just one dollar could give a child clean water for 30 days. It was more important for everyone to donate a little bit, than for only a few people to donate a lot. Another aspect that I loved was what the campaign represented. The campaign exemplified the idea that no matter how old someone is or where someone comes from, everyone has the ability to help. I was ecstatic to find out that there was an extraordinary amount of people who participated this year -- so apparently, there are many people who realize they have the capability to make a difference.

The UNICEF Ball

When I found out I was invited to UNICEF's annual ball, I may have freaked out a tad. When I picked out my dress, I may have freaked out a little bit more. When I heard Matt Damon was hosting with Jerry Weintraub, and Michael Douglas was getting honored as well as a lovely lady named Ghada Irani, I definitely did some major freaking out. My excitement was overwhelming, and I was counting down the days until the big event. I was incredibly honored to be involved in such a meaningful event, and c'mon -- I was going to a Ball! Choosing what to wear was super fun (and super difficult, due to my indecisive nature). When I saw the GUiSHEM dress that I ended up wearing, I instantly fell in love. Its shape made it really unique, but its colors gave it a classic feel. I love experimenting with fashion, and that dress was unlike anything I had ever worn!

When I finally got to the Ball, I was so enthralled with everything around me. From the beautiful location to seeing some recognizable faces, I was beyond thrilled.

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Photo credit: ©(DISNEY CHANNEL/Todd Wawrychuk)


There was a certain determination that was tangible in the air. We had all come together for this one night to raise money for children around the world -- a fact that gave everyone in the room this eminent purpose. One of my favorite speeches was given by UNICEF's President Caryl Stern. Her powerful words captivated everyone in the room, reminding us how thousands of children die from preventable causes every day. After the event was done, I found myself more inspired to help than before -- something I definitely did not think was possible. Overall, I feel so thankful that I am working with an organization that has such a wonderful resolve, and going to the UNICEF Ball just intensified my gratitude.

Bill Murray Is Cordially Invited To Washington, D.C., For A Groundhog Day Party

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How hard could it be to get Bill Murray to show up to at an annual Groundhog Day celebration in the nation's capital? Aaron DeNu says that, even with short notice, "I think we have a chance."

DeNu launched D.C.'s now-annual tribute to the soothsaying animal two years ago. He's hoping this year's event will entice Murray, who starred in the classic, and profound, "Groundhog Day," to attend.

"I think one in 100," he tells HuffPost, putting the odds that high because Murray is out promoting a new film -- "The Monuments Men" -- for which he's been undertaking some unorthodox publicity stunts, and because an exhibition relating to the movie will be opening at the Smithsonian on Feb. 7, a mere five days after the big day itself.

DeNu has convinced a handful of local businesses to donate goods and services which would make Murray's visit more appealing: a quirky boutique hotel has offered to put him up and a bookstore/restaurant frequented by the president has offered to feed him.

In 2011 when DeNu launched the event, he originally had a more feral star in mind: a live groundhog, which he planned to call Potomac Phil. DeNu thought he'd tell people that Potomac Phil is a brother of Pennsylvania's Punxsutawney Phil; that the two are both genetically blessed weather-rodents.

That plan eventually petered out. DeNu contacted various groups he thought might have a spare to lend out, and learned that groundhogs may be common, but this time of year they are also mostly hibernating. A stuffed groundhog, purchased from a D.C. vintage store -- yet also said to be able to see its shadow, and thus to adjudge the sort of winter Washington will enjoy -- has stood in a live animal's place.

Regarding this endeavor, while DeNu doesn't mark his chances of luring Murray as especially promising, "I'm going to keep at it," he says. "As Bill Murray's best friend said, 'Was it over when the Germans bombed Pearl Harbor? Hell no!'"

The attempts, thus far, have mainly entailed looking for the 1-800 number on which Murray is said to check messages. GQ reported in 2010 that the actor will return calls for propositions he finds "interesting."

Easy enough, except this time the problem is that DeNu doesn't know, specifically, what 1-800 number to call.

"So, I've been on a quest to find that number," he says. "Along the way, I've left some awkward messages on different 1-800 numbers that I believed to be his. I spoke into the AT&T toll free line for 30 minutes searching different names. Using search criteria such as names of characters Bill Murray has portrayed in film. And I've reached out to an accountant in New York that is rumored to be in contact with him. I try every day, but it seems like I’m having the same day over and over again."

Still, it could be so easy for Murray to help DeNu make things right. "Bill can email me at DupontFestival@gmail.com," he says, "and if he can be in Dupont Circle Park on Sunday, Feb. 2 at 7:30 a.m. it would be beautiful."

Jon Gosselin To Sue Kate Gosselin For Primary Custody Of Sextuplets

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Jon Gosselin is ready to sue his ex-wife, Kate Gosselin, for custody of their children.

The former reality TV star told InTouch magazine that he plans to sue for primary custody of their 9-year-old sextuplets, Aaden, Alexis, Collin, Hannah, Joel and Leah.

“They live in fear of Kate. Every time I see them, they tell me they want to live with me," he said, adding that he intends to file an emergency petition as soon as he has the money to cover the legal fees. “Regardless of what the judge decides, I have to at least try. I just wish Kate would wake up, realize how she’s behaving -- and change her ways.”

The last straw for the father of eight, who has been battling with his ex since they split in 2009, was the 13-year-old twins' appearance on the "Today" show. The teens, Mady and Cara, appeared on the NBC show with Kate and were mostly silent as host Savannah Guthrie attempted to ask them about their lives.

The interview made headlines for being entirely cringeworthy, as Kate attempted to salvage the interview by telling the girls to "spit it out."

RadarOnline.com recently reported that Jon waived his rights to control the kids' television appearances in order to avoid child support payments.

“Mady and Cara don’t talk to Jon and they haven’t seen him in nine months. They’re really hurt because they feel like he sold them. They don’t want anything to do with him,” a source told Radar. “The younger kids still see him because they don’t realize yet what he’s done. Jon’s media blitz about ‘fighting’ to keep the kids off TV is complete bulls--t.”

The twins sat down with the hosts of "The View" and discussed their parents' divorce on Monday (Jan. 20).

“Honestly, it wasn’t hard for us. I think it was harder for [Kate], definitely,” Mady said. “It didn’t really affect me. We still saw both parents … and we were little, like 9. We knew what was going on, but we didn’t see the stuff.”

'Get The F*ck Away From The Kardashians': John Fugelsang's Epic Rant Says What We're All Thinking

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John Fugelsang, comedian and former host of "Viewpoint" on the dearly departed Current TV, wants to have the final word on the Kardashians... and by "final word" we mean he really wants you to turn off the TV and stop keeping up with them.

Take a look at his impassioned rant on why we know about them in the first place, and why we need to "get the f*ck away" from Kim, Chloe and crew.
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