November 30 2020

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Monday, November 30, 2020 – Edition: #6861

The BS Press!

BS SHOW BIZ BUZZ:
★ Dog The Bounty Hunter is the victim of an online scam where criminals are posing as him online and soliciting gift cards and money from his fans. Dog’s team issued a statement, warning his fans not to get taken for a ride and be sure not to follow fake (non-verified) social media accounts claiming to be his. His team says “The fakes are scammers asking for fees or gift cards We NEVER ask.” The gift card scam is very popular around Black Friday because gift cards are almost untraceable if you load them and send them to an anonymous person online.
-TheBlast
★ Megan Fox has finally pulled the trigger and filed for divorce from Brian Austin Green, and now she wants to legally change her name back to Megan Fox from Megan Green. In her filing, she also lists the couple’s date of separation as November 2019, clearly indicating she was single when she began dating Machine Gun Kelly. Fox is asking the court to deny any request for Brian Austin Green to collect spousal support from her.
-TheBlast
★ Fans of “The Great British Bake Off” were surprised during last week’s finale to see a cologne commercial featuring Johnny Depp, just weeks after he lost a libel case in which a judge ruled that “wife beater” accusations by his ex, Amber Heard, were “substantially true.” A spokesperson for the Advertising Authority said: “We have received a total of 11 complaints about this ad, with the complainants believing that Johnny Depp shouldn’t be in the ad due to details concerning his recent court case.” Depp has been the face of “Sauvage”, a fragrance from Dior, since 2015.
-TheWrap
★ Ryan Reynolds and Blake Lively marked Thanksgiving by donating $500,000 to help support homeless, trafficked youths in Canada. The Covenant House revealed the gesture in a post on their Twitter page, writing: “In an incredible act of kindness and philanthropy, Ryan Reynolds and Blake Lively are donating $250,000 to Covenant House Vancouver and $250,000 to Covenant House Toronto to support homeless, at-risk, and trafficked youth across the nation.”
-Canoe

TODAY’S SHOW BIZ SKED:
• “Jimmy Kimmel Live” (ABC/Global): Natalie Portman, Russell Dickerson
• “The Tonight Show starring Jimmy Fallon” (NBC/CTV): Nick Kroll, Lily Collins, Matt Berninger
• “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert” (CBS/Global): Barack Obama, Vol. 2
• “Late Night with Seth Meyers” (NBC/CTV): Jim Parsons, Amber Ruffin, Yaa Gyasi (R)
• ” The Late Late Show with James Corden” (CBS/CTV): Sen. Cory Booker, Jack Harlow (R)
• “Conan” (TBS): Heidi Gardner (R)
• “Watch What Happens Live” (Bravo): Chelsea Handler, Ashley Graham
• “The View” (ABC/CTV): Mindy Kaling
• “Live with Kelly and Ryan” (ABC/CTV): Derek Hough, Rosie Perez, Lance Ulanoff
• “The Ellen DeGeneres Show” (NBC/CTV): Gayle King, Alison Brie
• “The Drew Barrymore Show” (CHECK LOCAL LISTINGS): Kate Mara, Hunter McGrady, Tiki Barber
• “The Disney Holiday Singalong” (ABC): A musical event featuring star-studded performances and animated on-screen lyrics; hosted by Ryan Seacrest.
• “CMA Country Christmas” (ABC): Legendary acts and current stars perform Christmas classics and festive collaborations; Thomas Rhett and Lauren Akins host.
• “The Voice” (NBC): The winner of the four-way knockout is revealed; the remaining top 17 perform for their chance at a spot in the top 9.

BS MUSIC NOTES:
• Drake — Barack Obama has a message him: Yes, you can – play him in a movie. The former president says he approves of Drake’s longstanding ambition to play the lead in an Obama biopic. Quote: “Drake seems to be able to do anything he wants. I mean, that is a talented, talented brother. So, if the time comes and he’s ready…”
• Justin Timberlake — donated a wheelchair-accessible van to Jake Stitt, a 17-year-old with cerebral palsy, who was trying to raise $35,000 with his family to buy one. On Zoom, Timberlake told Stitt that he “was so moved that I want you guys to have this van…You inspire me, Jake.” Timberlake hopes the money the family raised for the van can go toward the care Jake needs.
• Heart — Ann Wilson has revealed that there is a biopic about the band in the works. Carrie Brownstein of the punk band Sleater-Kinney, who also starred in “Portlandia”, will both write and direct the film, which is being produced for Amazon.
• Ozzy Osbourne – has been awarded the GQ Men Of The Year Lifetime Achievement award 2020. In an interview accompanying the current issue, he says that Elton John calls weekly to check on Ozzy’s recovery from his health issues.
• Alanis Morissette – has released a cover of John Lennon and Yoko Ono’s ‘Happy Xmas (War Is Over)’. The song and its video, in which Alanis and her family create their own bed-in – mirroring Lennon and Ono’s, dropped on Friday.
• Darius Rucker – On Friday, he released his version of ‘What Child is This’ with electronic artist and violinist Lindsey Stirling. The two performed the song for this year’s “CMA Country Christmas” TV special, which airs tonight on ABC.
• Chris Stapleton – His new album “Starting Over”, which dropped on Nov. 13, debuted at #1 on the Billboard Top Country Albums chart. It moved 102,733 equivalent units, according to Nielsen Music/MRC Data, which was also good enough for the #3 spot on the all-genre Billboard 200 chart.
• Vince Gill – His annual holiday tradition with Amy Grant – their “Christmas at the Ryman” shows — will not take place in 2020, but they’ve already announced next year’s dates. Their 2021 Christmas at the Ryman shows will feature 12 performances between Dec. 13-22. Tickets are already on sale.

HOW DOES THIS ‘WORK OUT’ FOR YOU?
With many of us spending a lot of time on the couch during the pandemic, the World Health Organization is reminding us about exercise. The WHO has released new physical activity guidelines recommending that adults get at least 150 minutes (2.5 hours) of moderate to vigorous physical activity per week. They say doing so could offset the risk of early death linked to prolonged sitting. If 150 minutes sounds like a tough goal to attain, the organization reminds us that just doing some physical activity is better for your health than doing none at all, and you can start small and slow, and increase your frequency, intensity and duration over time. Recommended indoor activities that don’t require a lot of space or equipment include climbing the stairs, active play with children or pets, dancing, or online yoga or Pilates classes. It’s recommended that children up to 17 get at least 60 minutes of exercise daily.
(But I was told that I’m saving the world by staying home on my couch!)
(Or you could shell out a couple grand for a Peloton!)
(Whoa! I’d better dial it back a bit!)
-CNN, ScienceFocus

SALE PLANE:
Who hasn’t picked up a last-minute gift for someone at an airport? Now, here’s your chance to pick up a gift for someone from an AIRLINE. Cash-strapped British Airways is selling off excess plates, champagne flutes, towels, blankets, slippers and other items used on its planes. The airline says that the items will allow buyers to “recreate a magical flying experience at home”. What else is up for grabs? How about aircraft drink trolleys and canisters from the recently retired Boeing 747 fleet? Or plates, bread baskets…and even the official Club World casserole dish…or socks! It’s the first time people have had the opportunity to “get their hands on items from British Airways craft which have circled the globe hundreds of times.” In September, the company’s CEO said British Airways was “burning through” an average of $25 million a day.
LINK: https://www.whatabuy.co.uk/british-airways/club-world
($25 million a day? That’s a lot of butter dishes!)
(Thanks, but I haven’t quite reached the level of rock-bottom yet where I’m looking to buy used slippers!)
(Yes, I’d LOVE to be able to recreate the magical flying experience of ramming a drink cart into my shin from the comfort of home!)
-CNN, CGTN

HIS BARK IS WORSE THAN HIS BITE:
Here’s what is surely the greatest invention of our lifetime…and it’s just in time to impress your family at Christmas: The new “Cuss Collar” is a dog collar that promises to “translate” your dog’s barks into “what they are really saying” — human swear words. Cuss Collar’s makers say that the pre-recorded sounds that eminate from its small speaker each time the wearer barks include exactly the words that by now you’re guessing they do, including the classic “f”, “s” and “a” words, among others. The manufacturer’s website makes it clear that the Cuss Collar is not intended for “training use”. It’s $60 at cusscollar.com
(Are they taking word suggestions for future upgrades?)
(I’m getting two. Can’t wait to hear my dogs have a conversation!)
(Please don’t use this with children present. No child should be sworn at by their furry friend!)
-Wimp

MYTHS AND FACTS ABOUT HOLIDAY WEIGHT GAIN:
☞ Most people gain a full size during the holidays: MYTH. A Texas Tech University study found that female test subjects gained about one pound and males 1.5 in the six weeks leading up to the New Year. That’s far less than the 7-10 pounds often cited for this time of year. (Speak for yourselves…)
☞ Bloating isn’t the same as fat weight: FACT. One reason you may feel like you’ve packed on more weight than you have is because many holiday foods trigger bloating and water retention. The main culprit? Carbs. And sodium. (And pecan pie. And mashed potatoes with gravy. And shortbread cookies…)
☞ Exercise staves off holiday pounds: MYTH. More than one study has found that those who work out around the holidays gain the same amount of weight as those who didn’t. But remember, there are numerous other benefits to exercise, including stress reduction and improved sleep. (On the other hand, if I’m working out, I’m not drinking eggnog — usually!)
☞ I’ll lose it in January: MYTH. Studies show most of us never lose our holiday padding, probably because after giving up on New Year’s resolutions, we tend to gain back the weight we’ve lost. (Hoping to get pajama pants for Christmas…again…)
☞ It’s not too late to avoid gaining weight this holiday season: FACT: Commit now to two simple goals: budget your carbs and drink more water. Both can help you avoid having to make that annual New Year’s resolution to lose weight. (Well, as we’ve learned, at least I don’t have to work out!)
(***See “Benefits of Winter Weight Gain”, below***)
-Health

DID YOU KNOW?
A Harvard study found that company CEOs work, on average, 62.5 hours per week. In their 2018 analysis of 27 company bosses, it was found that time is indeed the scarcest resource, with the average CEO working 9.7 hours per weekday, 4 hours per weekend day and 2.4 hours per vacation day. But before you cry too many tears for your company’s fearless leader, keep this in mind: the study also found that CEOs make an average of 271 times regular workers’ pay.
-BigThink

BS CHRONOMETER 11.30.20

TODAY’S CELEBIRTHDAYS . . .
1937 [83] Ridley Scott, South Shields UK, movie producer-director (“The Martian”, “Gladiator”, “Alien”)

1952 [68] Mandel “Mandy” Patinkin, Chicago IL, TV actor (‘Saul Berenson’ on “Homeland” since 2011)/movie actor (“The Princess Bride”)/Broadway actor

1955 [65] Billy Idol (William Broad), Stanmore UK, punk-ish rocker (‘White Wedding’, ‘Rebel Yell’)/author (‘Dancing With Myself’)

1957 [63] Colin Mochrie, Kilmarnock Scotland [raised Vancouver BC], improv comedian (“Whose Line Is It Anyway?” 1998-2004, 2013-present)

1965 [55] Ben Stiller, NYC, movie actor (“Night at the Museum” films, “Meet the Parents” films)/movie producer-director (“Tropic Thunder”, “Blades of Glory”)

1965 [55] Ryan Murphy, Indianapolis IN, TV producer (“American Horror Story” since 2011, “Glee” 2009-15) COMING UP…”Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story”, 2021

1982 [38] Elisha Cuthbert, Calgary AB [raised Longueuil QC], TV actress (“The Ranch” 2016-20, “24″ 2001-10)/movie actress (“Old School”)/married to NHL player Dion Phaneuf since 2013

1985 [35] Kaley Cuoco, Camarillo CA, TV actress (‘Penny’ on “The Big Bang Theory” 2007-19, “8 Simple Rules” 2002-05)

1985 [35] Chrissy Teigen, Delta UT, TV host (“Lip Sync Battle”)/fashion model (“Sports Illustrated”)/married to singer John Legend since 2013

TODAY’S BS REASONS TO PARTY . . .
• “Cyber Monday”, also known as Blue Monday, is the Monday after the Thanksgiving holiday in the United States. It was created by retailers to encourage people to shop online (and get a great deal on something that yesterday, you didn’t even know you wanted!) [and yes, you CAN shop online – locally!]

• “International Computer Security Day”, to remind us to protect our computers, programs, and data at home and work. Remember to always practice safe surfin’!

• “Mousse Day”, an annual celebration of the divine dessert made from egg whites and cream. Did you know that ‘mousse’ is the French word for ‘foam’?  It’s a fitting name for this light, fluffy, and decadent confection.

• “Stay Home Because You’re Well Day”, a day to call in ‘well’ instead of having to fake sickness in order to get a day off. (Do it…your co-workers will love you!) [***See “Water Cooler Question”, below***]

• “National Methamphetamine Awareness Day”, a day of education and awareness of the dangers of methamphetamine. (Is ‘Walter White’ the poster boy?)

• “St Andrew’s Day”, honoring the patron saint of Scotland who hurled his last haggis in 60 AD. It’s Scotland’s official national day. Be sure to dust off your sporran!

COMING UP . . .
[Tues] Advent Calendar Day
[Tues] National Pie Day
[Wed] National Mutt Day
[Wed] Business of Popping Corn Day
This Week Is…Cookie Cutter Week
This Month Is…National Human Rights Month

THIS DAY IN SHOW BIZ . . .
2004 [16] Canadian journalist/historian Pierre Berton (“Klondike Fever”) dies at age 84

2013 [07] “Fast & Furious” film franchise star Paul Walker and a friend are killed in a single car accident in Santa Clarita CA

TODAY’S MUSIC EVENTS . . .
1977 [43] Bing Crosby’s final Christmas special airs. It was recorded in September, and Crosby dies that October. The show is remembered for Crosby’s duet with David Bowie, where they sing a modified version of ‘Little Drummer Boy’, with Bowie singing his new ‘Peace On Earth’ lyrics.

1982 [38] Michael Jackson releases “Thriller”, which becomes the best-selling album worldwide (currently at 47.3 million in certified sales)

2011 [09] Dubstep artist Skrillex is unexpectedly nominated for 5 Grammy Awards, a first in Grammy history for an EDM DJ

TODAY’S FIRST . . .
2011 [09] Washington State University researchers develop an artificial bone ‘scaffold’ which uses 3D printers to print replacement bone tissue for injured patients

TODAY’S RECORD . . .
2004 [16] After amassing $2,520,700 on “Jeopardy!”, contestant Ken Jennings is finally knocked off by Nancy Zerg on a question about taxes (during his record 75-game run, he gives correct responses to over 2,700 clues)

BULL’S BITS

BS WHACK FACTS:
✓ Yoda, from “Star Wars”, was modeled after the appearance of Albert Einstein.
✓ Freddie Mercury and Paul McCartney used the same piano to record ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ and ‘Hey Jude’.
✓ Jack Nicholson once had a job answering Tom & Jerry’s fan mail.
✓ The world is running out of sand. We use 40 billion tons of it each year.
✓ Studies show that Sprite may be one of the best hangover remedies.
✓ At -90°F (-68°C), your breath will freeze in mid-air – and drop to the ground.
-DidYouKnow, BathroomReadersInstitute

Best of BS . . .
BS BENEFITS OF WINTER WEIGHT GAIN:

• Makes a good “before” picture
• Harder to kidnap
• No longer need to ask the question, “Does my butt look big in these jeans?”
• Big savings on home heating
• Friends all want to come to visit because they know that you have pizza, cookies and pie
• The only running you have to do is to get in the front of the line at Krispy Kreme
• Make extra cash by selling your skinny jeans on eBay
• Thinner friends want you in all their pictures
• Hides your summer body, which was also last year’s winter body
• You can still say your stomach is flat…but the “L” is silent
-Twitter, first published in BS in 2018

TODAY’S SLICE OF BS:
➠ It’s Cyber Monday, a day that, according to tradition, we spend all day shopping online. (Or as my wife calls it: Monday.)
➠ It’s Cyber Monday. (NOT FOR ME!! If you haven’t given someone a forearm shiver to save 99 bucks off a 16-hundred-dollar TV, it just doesn’t feel like you’ve earned it…)
➠ Over the weekend we celebrated Red Saturday. (This is where you spend part of your morning wiping up all the blood from the electronics you purchased on Black Friday…)
➠ It’s Cyber Monday. (I just can’t do it. I like to spend my money locally. Plus, I actually have more fun shopping in my underwear when I’m at the mall…)
➠ #Floridaman posted a video where he was thawing out the turkey in his backyard swimming pool, and the clip has gone viral. (Something awful happened during Thanksgiving dinner with my family, too: I had Thanksgiving dinner with my family.)
➠ Rocker Billy Idol is 65 today. (He was given one slice of cake and then screamed: “More, More, More!”)

BS WEB GOODIE:
Gearing up for another week:  https://tinyurl.com/y3lclpw6

BS U-PICK TRIVIA:
• What is the name of a rabbit’s abode?
a) Den
b) Nest
c) Burrow [CORRECT]
d) Office

• Harvard University is located in which city?
a) Cambridge [CORRECT]
b) Providence
c) New York
d) Harvard

• In a 1994 CBS interview, Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates performed what unusual trick on camera?
a) Jumping over an office chair [CORRECT]
b) Jumping backwards over a desk
c) Typing on a keyboard while doing a handstand
d) Opening 3 programs on his computer without Windows crashing
-Brightful

BS PHONE STARTER:
You have one hour to spend $10,000 in one store. Where are you going?

BS RANDOM JOKE:
I really miss hugging people. It’s probably a depth-perception issue…

BS WATER COOLER QUESTION:
Question:  When it comes to shopping during the holidays, 6% of adults admit they have done THIS. What is it?
Answer:  Fake an illness to go shopping

BS DEEP THOUGHT:
A weekend well-spent brings a week of content.

 

 

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