Jennifer Aniston's love calls

Actress Jennifer Aniston arrives at the screening of "Management" at the 33rd Toronto International Film Festival, Sept. 7, 2008.

Sept. 26 -- Jennifer Aniston is desperate to rekindle her relationship with ex-boyfriend John Mayer. The former "Friends" actress - who split from the "Gravity" singer last month - is reportedly phoning John every day in a bid to show him what he is missing.

A source said: "Jennifer reached out to John first. She had a few glasses of wine - then decided to throw caution to the wind and make the first move. John was pleasantly surprised to hear from her. He says they've been in contact pretty much every day since and he's really looking forward to seeing her again soon."

However, it is claimed John is more concerned about the change in Jennifer's lifestyle - after she has been regularly photographed out drinking with friends - than getting back together with the brunette beauty.

The source added to the MailOnline website: "Jennifer's friends are worried. She's had a really tough time since the break-up and the more time goes on, she realizes how much John still means to her. Basically, she's still in love with him and has had a really tough time letting go."

Singer John Mayer attends the premiere of "The Bucket List" at the Cinerama Dome in Los Angeles Dec. 16, 2007. The movie opens in Los Angeles, New York and Toronto on Dec. 25.

Jennifer - who is divorced from Brad Pitt - is also reportedly finding it difficult to change the way she approaches relationships.

The source continued: "Jen just needs to be careful about not being so needy and vulnerable when it comes to men. Unfortunately, partying tends to bring that side out of her and she's a lot more appealing to John when she parties less."

(Agencies)

Disciplined cats and dogs

Don't mess with Brad Pitt in cyberspace

U.S. actor Brad Pitt signs autograph before a screening in Venice August 27, 2008. Pitt stars in Ethan and Joel Coen's movie "Burn After Reading" which is opening this year's Venice Film Festival.

Sept. 17 -- Dabble with Brad Pitt in cyberspace if you dare - the Hollywood hearthrob has overtaken Paris Hilton as the most dangerous celebrity to search for on the Internet.

That's according to the second annual study by Internet security company McAfee.

The company found web users searching for "Brad Pitt," "Brad Pitt downloads," and Brad Pitt wallpaper, screen savers and pictures had an 18 percent chance of having their computer infected with online threats, such as spyware, spam, phishing, adware, viruses and other malware.

A spokesman for McAfee said in a statement that cybercriminals were using A-list names and images, like Beyonce and Justin Timberlake, to lure people surfing for the latest gossip, screen savers and ringtones to "fake" websites.

Pitt and Justin Timberlake were found to be the most dangerous men to seek on the internet, while Beyonce and Heidi Montag from The Hills topped the list for women.

Paris Hilton, who topped 2007's list of the most dangerous celebrity searches, was missing from this year's list as was pop star Britney Spears who came fourth last year.

(Agencies)

Paris Hilton finds "paparazzi-ready" best friend

Sept. 17 -- Paris Hilton launched a television show to look for a new best friend who was hot, loyal and "paparazzi-ready" -- and she says she found exactly what she was looking for.

Hilton, 27, the millionaire socialite, said some 300,000 Americans applied to take part in the reality series "Paris Hilton's My New BFF" (Best Friend Forever), which begins airing on September 30 on MTV.

The 16 women and two men selected to compete had to perform a series of challenges to be Hilton's new BFF, including how to look hot on a rollercoaster and making a commercial for one of her fashion products. She has now picked a winner with whom she said she has struck up a real, off-screen friendship.

"The person who won is now my best friend. We hang out. Yeah, we're really friends," Hilton told Reuters on Tuesday.

"We've been having barbecues and hanging out at the house. The winner and I have been pretty low-key so far, because it is top secret right now," she said.

Hilton said the TV show prepared the contestants for life in Hollywood and hectic red carpet events, parties, and product launches -- all under the constant glare of photographers.

"In my life you can get photographed at any time. You never know when paparazzi are going to be hiding around the corner. So my friend needs to be paparazzi-ready," she said.

In her real-life friendships, Hilton says she values trust more than looking hot and says it was fun to meet people on the show who were not as jaded as the usual Hollywood crowd.

"They (the contestants) were so excited. We went on a private jet to Las Vegas and they had never been on a private plane. It was nice to really show them things they maybe never could do in their life. They were really appreciative and so sweet," Hilton said.

As for her own qualities as a friend, Hilton said she was loyal, good at keeping secrets, truthful and generous.

"I will always tell you the truth. If you ask me if I like your outfit, if I don't, I'll say I don't. I'm a lot of fun. I love showing my friends my world and enjoying life," she said.

Hilton starts filming a second series of the show, this time set in England, next month and expects her new "friends" to be very different.

"London is my favorite city in the world. I love their accents, their attitude. They are so real, they are not fake. I feel that everyone in LA wants to be famous but in London it's more about business."

(Agencies)

Britney Spears to release album on her birthday

Britney Spears's got a new fragrance on the shelves, a limited-edition perfume called Believe.

Sept. 17 -- Britney Spears is gearing up for another comeback attempt.

The pop singer's label said on Monday it would release her new album, "Circus," on Dec. 2, her 27th birthday.

The album marks the follow-up to 2007's "Blackout," which was also billed as a comeback after a sustained period of personal and professional woes. It failed to return Spears to the commercial heyday she enjoyed at the turn of the century.

The latest comeback talk got a boost last week when Spears won three prizes at the MTV Video Music Awards in Hollywood and did not commit any missteps in the process.

The first single from the album is called "Womanizer," Jive Records said in a statement. The label said Spears collaborated with a team of writer/producers, including stalwarts such as Swedish hitmaker Max Martin and Floyd "Danja" Hills.

Jive is ultimately owned by Sony Music Entertainment Inc, a unit of Sony Corp.

(Agencies)

Cats in sleep

So Funny!

Cat and chick: best of friends

Snowy and Gladys: The best of friends

Sept. 16 -- A farmhouse cat has adopted a chicken after she became the only survivor of a fox attack in Middleton, near Leiston in Suffolk, Britain.

It's an unlikely partnering, but the pair have become firm friends -- even lavishing affection on each other. The incredible friendship blossomed just over two months ago when a fox killed 13 chicks -- leaving the chick Gladys as the only survivor.

Alone and in need of a friend, Gladys was brought into the farmhouse by her owners to keep her safe. And it was here her beautiful friendship with the cat Snowy began.

(Agencies)

The owner, Etheridge Albert, is with Snowy and Gladys

Coolest helmet in this summer

Two Australian spectators with watermelon helmet on the head watch athletic event at Beijing 2008 Paralympic Games on Sept. 14, 2008.

Eva Longoria: I'm not pregnant, just fat

Sept. 13 -- Eva Longoria has denied rumors she is pregnant, insisting she is "just fat." The "Desperate Housewives" actress - who plays Gabrielle Soli

Eva Longoria Parker. Eva Longoria has denied rumors she is pregnant, insisting she is "just fat." (File Photoes)

Host Eva Longoria Parker and her husband Tony Parker arrive for the taping of the 2008 "NCLR Alma" awards at the Civic Auditorium in Pasadena, California, Aug. 17, 2008.

When asked if she is pregnant, Eva replied: "No, I'm just fat!" "Desperate Housewives" creator Marc Cherry recently revealed 33-year-old Eva is trying to conceive.

Marc said: "Eva is desperately trying to get pregnant with Tony. After they phone their doctor, she promised me I will be the next call!"

The new "Desperate Housewives" series is giving Eva the opportunity to practice her mothering skills. Set five years in the future, Eva's character is now a mother of two.

Marc added: "Gaby is having a very tough time being the mother of two overweight, hyperactive children. But Eva is having a marvelous time playing her!"

(Agencies)

Giant loster discovered at Eddystone Reef

A three feet lobster (R) is seen beside a lobster of a normal size. The giant lobster, with a claw about 18 inches long, was caught off the coast of Cornwall at Eddystone Reef in England, according to media report on Friday. The fisherman John Brannan named it Eddy and decided to donate Eddy to the Blue Reef Aquarium in Newquay


The three feet lobster, named Eddy, has a giant claw about 18 inches long

Single Kylie considers lesbianism

Australian pop star Kylie Minogue

Sept. 11 -- Kylie Minogue has considered becoming a lesbian.

The Australian-born pop star - who will perform two New Zealand tour dates in December - jokingly claims she has thought about experimenting with her sexuality because there are no men in her life.

She also admits to having a crush on late, rumoured bisexual actress Tallulah Bankhead.

Kylie is quoted by Britain's The Sun newspaper as saying: "I'd go gay for her. She was a fascinating and exotic woman. There was so much to admire about her.

"She lived life to the full, maybe a little too fully. I want to release the inner Tallulah in me. God knows I can't get a man - so maybe I should cross over."

American actress Bankhead had a critically lauded but tragic career, starring in films such as Devil and the Deep and Tarnished Lady in the early 30s.

She died aged 66 in 1968, surrounded by controversy over her sexual affairs and drug use.

Kylie's last publicised relationship was with French actor Olivier Martinez. The couple broke up after four years together in February 2007.

Kylie has a strong gay following.

In a recent poll of 3000 gay men by website gaygolddiggers.com, she was voted second in a list of gay icons, behind soccer star Cristiano Ronaldo.

Tickets to Kylie's first ever New Zealand show sold out in 19 minutes Tuesday, with the singer announcing a second concert.

She will perform at Auckland's Vector Arena on Dec. 8 and 9.

(Agencies)

Anne Hathaway's Raffaello "shock"

Sept. 12 -- Anne Hathaway "spent a week in shock" after her then-boyfriend Raffaello Follieri was arrested.

Actress Anne Hathaway (L) and her boyfriend Raffaello Follieri arrive at the 80th annual Academy Awards, the Oscars, in Hollywood Feb. 24, 2008.

The "Get Smart" actress - who had been dating the Italian businessman for four years, but ended the relationship following him being taken into custody on charges of federal wire fraud conspiracy and money laundering - admits the incident shock her world.

She told W magazine: "As soon as I found out about the arrest, I had to get on a plane to Mexico to do a promotional tour for 'Get Smart. ' And then I spent a week in shock at a friend's house. It's a situation where the rug was pulled out from under me all of a sudden.

But just as suddenly, my friends threw another rug back under me. One said, 'Go stay at my house.' And Steve Carell, my 'Get Smart' co-star, stepped up for me during an interview when someone asked a question about it.

He said, 'At some point you're going to have to talk about this time in your life. You don't have to do it this week. I'll take care of anything that comes your way.' "

Rafaello - who has been detained since his June arrest because he has been unable to raise the 21 million U.S. dollars bail money - is said to be set to strike a deal with lawyers at the Manhattan District court today to ensure he only spends five years in federal prison.

(Agencies)

Drew Barrymore books "How to Be Single"

Sept. 12 -- The creative team behind the upcoming romantic comedy "He's Just Not That Into You" is teaming up again for another laugh-infused romance.

Actress Drew Barrymore arrives to attend the premiere of the film "Lucky You" during the Tribeca Film Festival in New York May 1, 2007.

New Line has picked up the rights to former writer "Sex and the City" writer Liz Tuccillo's best-selling novel "How to Be Single" for Drew Barrymore's production company.

The book follows the dating lives of five single New York women, one of whom, the narrator, is writing a book about how bachelorettes across the world manage. The woman embarks on a trip around the world for the book and gets involved in an international affair, while her four friends duke it out on the New York dating scene. The book was published in June.

Barrymore and production partner Nancy Juvonen will produce, setting Marc Silverstein and Abby Kohn to adapt.

Juvonen and Barrymore are producing "Into You," which Silverstein and Kohn adapted from a nonfiction tome written by Tuccillo and Greg Behrendt.

With the strong box office performance of "Sex and the City" this year and the scheduled February 6 release of "He's Just Not That Into You," New Line is hoping to keep its female-skewing, romantic-comedy streak going with "How to Be Single."

(Agencies)

Paris Hilton lights up Toronto film festival

Sept. 12 -- It's not easy being Paris Hilton, always being photographed by the paparazzi doing things as mundane as ordering a hamburger at a drive-in.

Paris Hilton and director Adria Petty (R) arrive at the "Paris, Not France" screening at the 33rd Toronto International Film Festival Sept. 9, 2008.

"Paris, Not France," a documentary about the life and business of being Hilton debuted on Tuesday at the Toronto International Film Festival. From one perspective, it doesn't seem like much fun being a 27-year-old global celebrity.

The movie from director Adria Petty, daughter of rocker Tom Petty, shows Hilton at work on red carpets and at home with her family and friends. Petty spent a year documenting Hilton's life and came away with an insider's view.

Hilton, derided by some as a spoiled rich kid with little real talent but adored by her fans, is given largely sympathetic treatment.

"I had a conception that she might not be very smart before I met her. I didn't really go in with too many prejudices against her, but just like everyone else I wondered what she was all about," Petty said in an interview on Wednesday.

"As soon as I met her, I knew within a minute that she was a cool chick, a smart girl, and hard-working. She certainly wasn't lounging on a chaise eating cherries."

Petty said the documentary is designed not to sway Hilton doubters but to entertain. Petty wanted to make this generation's "Truth or Dare," referring to Madonna's behind-the-scenes look at her 1990 Blond Ambition Tour.

It wasn't that hard to get Hilton to talk candidly, Petty said.

"I think it was really liberating for her because I don't think she's ever been encouraged to talk about things in a candid and open way."

THE BUSINESS OF BEING HILTON

Hilton discusses her infamous sex tape, growing up in the media glare and her critics and fans. Petty follows Hilton as she promotes products that bear her name such as perfume, television shows, a book and album.

The business of being Hilton seems to carry on non-stop. In one scene, a makeup artist prepares Hilton for a public appearance -- while she's asleep.

Interviews with her parents Rick and Kathy Hilton, sister Nicky and others such as Donald Trump and feminist Camille Paglia provide commentary on the most famous member of the family that founded the Hilton hotels chain.

At Tuesday's screening, accompanied by her boyfriend, rocker Benji Madden of the band Good Charlotte, Hilton smiled. With only that gesture, a burst of camera flashes went off.

But when the lights came up after the 85-minute documentary, the pair scurried out a side door without waiting for the director's question-and-answer session that is common after public screenings at the Toronto film festival.

When Hilton emerged outside, festival volunteers linked hands to provide a human fence shielding her from fans jockeying to catch a glimpse her.

Not one to disappoint, Hilton did what she does best: stopping briefly, signing a few autographs, posing for cameras but not saying much. Then she faded into the Toronto night.

(Agencies)

Madonna's Pope tribute

Sept. 9 -- Madonna has upset Catholics by dedicating "Like a Virgin" to the Pope at her concert in Rome on Saturday.

Britney Spears stands backstage with her three awards for best pop video, video of the year and best female video for "Piece of Me" at the 2008 MTV Video Music Awards in Los Angeles September 7, 2008.

The singer's shock tribute to Pope Benedict XVI, the head of the church, has been labeled "disrespectful" by the Catholic community.

During the show, Madonna - who was brought up in the religion, but now follows the Kabbalah faith - said: "I dedicate this song to the Pope because I'm a child of God. All of you are also children of God."

"Like a Virgin" features racy lyrics, including "like a virgin, touched for the very first time". Italian papers called the dedication a "surprising provocation".

Madonna's concert, attended by 60,000 fans, was held only a few miles away from the Vatican City - where the pope resides. It is not the first time Madonna has upset the Catholic Church.

One of her previous tours was branded one of the most "Satanic shows in the history of humanity", after she staged a mock crucifixion during a show in Rome in 2006.

The video for her 1989 single "Like a Prayer," which featured burning crosses, statues weeping blood and a black Jesus being seduced, caused mass outrage.

The "Sticky and Sweet" tour continues with stops in Frankfurt, Germany, on September 9 and London, England, on September 11.

(Agencies)

Keira Knightley: I'll never be a pirate again

Sept. 11 -- British actress Keira Knightley has no intention of starring in a new Pirates of the Caribbean movie.

Keira Knightley says her pirate days are over for good.

The 23-year-old actress - who has played Elizabeth Swann in three films in the Disney franchise - admits even if producers ask her to reprise her role alongside Johnny Depp and Orlando Bloom for a fourth film, she would turn them down.

When asked if she would ever consider doing another 'Pirates of the Caribbean' film, Keira told US TV show Access Hollywood: "I think it was wonderful and an amazing opportunity and those films were just extraordinary and I was extremely lucky to be a part of them.

"But no. I think my pirating days may be over."

Keira starred in Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl in 2003, Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest in 2006 and 2007's Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End.

The brunette beauty can currently be seen starring alongside Ralph Fiennes in new period drama The Duchess, in which she plays Georgiana, the Duchess of Devonshire.

Keira recently revealed she was "honoured" to star in the movie.

She said: "It was so incredible to actually be given this role. It was so incredible. There are relatively few leading roles for women, so to actually have one land on your doorstep was fantastic.

"The fact that people are now liking it is so exciting, so I don't think you can ask for anything more than that."

(Agencies)

Brad Pitt's Angelina arguments

Sept. 11 -- Brad Pitt says partner Angelina Jolie "p***es" him off.

The "Burn After Reading" actor - who has six children with the "Wanted" star - admits the couple are no strangers to arguing, but insists it is important in a relationship to clear the air.

Brad Pitt says partner Angelina Jolie "p***es" him off. The "Burn After Reading" actor - who has six children with the "Wanted" star - admits the couple are no strangers to arguing, but insists it is important in a relationship to clear the air.

He said: "Sometimes Angie p***es me off, but we usually only row about politics. I rely on her advice, and her energy is incredible - she will push herself to the limit. "I'm very proud to be able to support Angie in everything she does.

My vision of an ideal couple is two strong, independent people sharing their lives together." Brad also revealed since welcoming twins Knox Leon and Vivienne Marcheline into the world in July, he is happier than he has ever been.

He added to Britain's Look magazine: "I've always wanted a big family, so it's very satisfying - even though I don't sleep much any more! I am enjoying life right now because I can do more than I ever imagined. It's all about becoming more involved and not limiting yourself. "

But my family will always come first. No film will ever take precedence or fill me with the kind of joy I get from being a dad."

(Agencies)

Jewish professor return to school after sex change

Professor Jay Ladin, an expert in Modernist American poetry, now goes by the Joy. Right: Ladin after his gender transformation.(Photo Source: Modern Express)

Sept. 10 (Xinhuanet) -- New York's Yeshiva University professor Jay Ladin was returning to school for the fall semester as a woman, though she had left as a man, media reports on Wednesday.

Ladin, an expert in modernist American poetry, now known as Joy Ladin, was placed on a two-year leave when he informed the school of his intention to change his gender. After some wrangling, the university decided to allow her to return.

The professor declined to comment on her new status as the Jewish university's only publicly transgender faculty member. 　

Yeshiva University, with 7,427 students, is America's oldest Jewish institution of higher learning.

(Agencies)

Polar bears turn green at Japanese zoo

A polar bear, its fur stained with algae, stands in its cage at Higashiyama Zoo in Nagoya, central Japan, Saturday, Sept. 6, 2008. Three polar bears at the zoo changed their colors in July after swimming in a pond with an overgrowth of algae, prompting many questions from visitors concerned about whether the animals are sick or carrying mold, a zoo official said.

Two polar bears stand in their cage at Higashiyama Zoo in Nagoya, central Japan, Saturday, Sept. 6, 2008. Three polar bears at the zoo changed their colors in July after swimming in a pond with an overgrowth of algae, prompting many questions from visitors concerned about whether the animals are sick or carrying mold, a zoo official said

Julia Roberts: turning 40 didn't mean anything

Actress/producer Julia Roberts arrives with actress Abigail Breslin for the premiere of the film "Kit Kittredge: An American Girl" in New York, June 19, 2008.

Sept. 8 -- Julia Roberts says turning 40 "didn't mean anything". The 'Pretty Woman' actress - who reached the landmark age last October - isn't worried about growing older and was "relieved" to enter her forties.

She said: "I guess I felt relieved after my birthday because everybody anticipates it so much for you that now we can all just relax. It's done. I had a lovely party with all of my kids and kin, and we had a great time. "However, it doesn't mean anything really.

But getting older to me is nice anyway. I guess that there is a sense of relief. I think you are released from certain concepts as you get older." Julia also revealed she is concentrating on her personal life now, rather than her professional prospects.

She added: "My career is at half-pace now. I wasn't really cranking a lot of movies out anyway. I've just never really been that driven to go, go, go. You have to take time to recover, enjoy things and keep sort of replenishing that well. "I've always been one to appreciate that luxury of being able to have a certain pace to things.

But now it's just great to have my day so full and busy with such different kinds of things."

(Agencies)

Jessica Simpson's marriage wish

Sept. 5 -- Jessica Simpson wants to be married with babies in 10 years time. The 'Come On Over' singer - who is divorced from singer Nick Lachey - intends to tie the knot with boyfriend Tony Romo in the future.

She told FOX News: "I would love to be making records and making babies and hopefully I'm married in 10 years. I have the dreams of every normal person. I want to be a great aunt." Jessica's admission comes as she and Tony have reportedly taken the next step in their relationship by moving in together.

The American football player is said to have purchased a $700,000 six-bedroom, four-bathroom mansion for the couple to live in. Jessica, 28, is looking forward to taking on the job of lavishly decorating the property.

A source said: "What she's planning to do with the place is awesome. It's a little outdated, so the renovations are probably going to end up costing more than the house itself.

And Tony totally trusts her." It was recently reported Jessica has a secret nickname for Tony, and told her friends she calls him 'FBD' - an abbreviation for Future Baby's Daddy.

(Agencies)

Beckhams turn to Buddhism

David Beckham (L) and his wife Victoria Beckham pose at a party at the Museum of Contemporary Art in Los Angeles July 22, 2007.

Sept. 8 -- Victoria and David Beckham have turned to Buddhism. The couple - who live in Los Angeles with their three sons - have reportedly "embraced" the mystical religion and are now chanting every morning in a bid to help them deal with their hectic lifestyles.

A source said: "David and Victoria have gone completely Californian! David has begun wearing health, prosperity and performance beads around his wrist.

He has started yoga and stretching classes after a knee injury, and then a teammate suggested Buddhist chanting to soothe his mind. "Now he and Victoria do a short five-minute chant when they wake up to start the day off on the right foot, repeating, 'Homage to the blessed one, the worthy one, the rightly self-awakened one.' "

Former Spice Girls star Victoria, 34, has also reportedly incorporated holistic eating into her diet plan. The source added to Britain's Look magazine: "David and Victoria are really getting into the whole holistic, healthy vibe too.

Victoria often picks up a soya latte at an organic cafe called Urth Caffe, which is next to The Bodhi Tree bookstore, where she bought hundreds of dollars' worth of self-help books." The pair have are even said to have employed a feng shui expert to ensure their mansion is appropriately arranged.

The source revealed: "They have had Chinese Feng Shui experts come in to rearrange their home, hope it will improve David's luck on the soccer pitch and their chances of conceiving. They have turned into the ultimate hippy power couple!"

(Agencies)

Wedding for zoo animals

A 7-year-old male monkey named Wukong (R) and a 6-year old female monkey named Xiaoya are seen during a special wedding ceremony at a zoo in Wenling, Zhejiang province, September 4, 2008. The widlife park organized the wedding in the hope of attracting more visitors, local media reported.

Angelina Jolie's "Wanted" ads not wanted in UK

Sept. 4 -- Two movies posters for action flick "Wanted" starring Angelina Jolie and James McAvoy have been banned by the U.K.'s Advertising Standards Authority for glamorizing the use of guns and violence and are considered unsuitable for children, media reported Thursday.

Two movies posters for action flick "Wanted" starring Angelina Jolie and James McAvoy have been banned by the U.K.'s Advertising Standards Authority for glamorizing the use of guns and violence and are considered unsuitable for children.

A total of 18 people complained about the posters for the film, which were released in the UK in June.

One ad featured Jolie lying on her back across the bonnet of a car, holding a gun next to the text: "We drove through the night at breathtaking speed, destroying everything in our path … welcome to the fraternity. We are a team of assassins, the weapons of fate. Kill one, save a thousand."

A scene from "Wanted" (File Photo)

Another advert, headlined "6 Weeks ago I was just like you" and with the text "And then I met her ... and my world was changed forever," suggested McAvoy's character's life had been changed for the better since he had become an assassin.　

"We acknowledged most viewers would understand the posters reflected the content of an action film," the ASA said in a statement. "However, we considered that because the ads featured a glamorous actress, action poses, several images of, or related to guns and aspirational text, they could be seen to glamorize the use of guns and violence."

While Universal Pictures UK defended their images, it also said the images had already been taken out of circulation, with no plans to use them again in the future.

(Agencies)

Spears' sister sends gift to Palin's pregnant daughter

Sept. 4-- Jamie Lynn Spears, the 17-year-old sister of Britney Spears who gave birth to a daughter in June -- sent a baby gift to 17-year-old Bristol Palin, who is five-month pregnant.

Bristol, the teenage daughter of Republican vice presidential hopeful Sarah Palin, was revealed in a statement earlier this week that she is expecting a baby.

Actress Jamie Lynn Spears arrives at a premiere in Los Angeles in this July 17, 2006 File photo. Jamie Lynn Spears, the 17-year-old sister of Britney Spears who gave birth to a daughter in June -- sent a baby gift to 17-year-old Bristol Palin, who is five-month pregnant.

Palin said that she and her husband Todd were "proud of Bristol's decision to have her baby and even prouder to become grandparents."

On Tuesday, Lynne Spears, Jamie Lynn's mother, called Beverly Hills baby boutique Petit Tresor in West Hollywood, Calif. looking for something nice and settled on a 60-U.S.-dollar gift -- white burp cloths with pink writing, a spokesman for the store confirmed.

The note attached to the gift reads, "Dear Bristol, Hang in there… xoxo, Jamie Lynn."

The McCain campaign put celeb Britney Spears and Paris Hilton in the infamous "Celebrity" ad, now the Spears family has interjected itself into the mix.

(Agencies)

Victoria Beckham's champagne binge

Sept. 3 -- Victoria Beckham spent over 8,000 pounds (about 14,282 U.S. dollars) on in one night last week.

The former Spice Girl enjoyed dinner with friends at the Ithaca restaurant in Manchester and her party made its way through twelve 650-pound (about 1160-U.S. dollar) bottles of Perrier Jouet Belle Epoque Blanc de Blancs champagne.

Victoria Beckham arrives to launch her "Signature" fragrance at Harvey Nichols in Manchester, northern England, Aug. 29, 2008

Victoria was treating her management team and 20 perfume consultants to a night out ahead of the launch of her new fragrance "Signature."

Arnie Hira, owner of the Japanese restaurant, said: "Suffice to say that everyone said they had a great time at the restaurant and said they would definitely come again."

Victoria and her guests ate a selection of fine dishes including Chilean sea bass, Wagyu beef and soft shell crab.

Victoria Beckham poses for photographers as she arrives to launch her "Signature" fragrance at Harvey Nichols in Manchester, northern England, Aug. 29, 2008.

The 34-year-old star - whose soccer star husband David used to play for Manchester United - reportedly chose the eatery after discovering Jay-Z and Kanye West were recent diners.

The day after her luxury meal, Victoria made an appearance at Harvey Nichols department store in Manchester where she greeted fans and officially launched the new fragrance.

A woman sprays perfume from a bottle of Victoria Beckham's "Signature" fragrance at Harvey Nichols in Manchester, northern England, Aug. 29, 2008.

As well as promoting her scent, Victoria also spoke about her new fashion collection, saying: "They're very sexy dresses.

Full-length frocks and bold colors - stuff that makes women feel good. I'm just showing it to a collection of magazine journalists and boutique retailers because I want to start off small and see what the reaction is. I really hope people will like it." The Beckham's "Signature" brand perfume and aftershave are available now.

(Agencies)

Wagner offspring win epic family battle for opera

Sept. 3 -- Two great-granddaughters of composer Richard Wagner will take control of Germany's Wagner opera festival after winning an epic family power struggle.

Katharina Wagner waves as she arrives for the opening of this year's Bayreuth Wagner opera festival outside the so-called Gruener Huegel (Green Hill) opera house in Bayreuth July 25, 2007

The Richard Wagner Foundation announced on Monday that Eva Wagner-Pasquier, 63, and her half-sister Katharina Wagner, 30, would take over the festival in Bayreuth after 89-year-old Wolfgang Wagner stepped down last month.

After Wolfgang Wagner's 57-year reign as head of the festival in the Bavarian town ended, a fierce battle for succession erupted, pitting Wagner-Pasquier and Katharina Wagner against their cousin Nike Wagner, 63.

Wagner-Pasquier is Wolfgang Wagner's daughter from his first marriage. German media said the two women had not spoken to each other for years and had only recently renewed relations in order to prepare their joint bid.

Wagner-Pasquier is an experienced theatre manager. Katharina Wagner celebrated her directing debut at the Wagner festival last year and has supported projects such as an open-air public screening of operas.

"We're grateful that the wrangling over the festival is finally behind us," said Wagner-Pasquier.

"We want to preserve the unmatched position of the festival," said Katharina Wagner. "Naturally we've been listening to the criticism and will take it to heart."

Nike Wagner had hoped to run the prestigious event jointly with opera manager Gerard Mortier.

The foundation said it appreciated that two generations would be involved in running the festival, a spokeswoman said. In the end the winners received 22 of the foundation's 24 votes.

Richard Wagner himself inaugurated the purpose-built opera house at Bayreuth in southeast Germany in 1876 after searching in vain for a venue big enough to stage epic operas such as his four-part Ring cycle.

Demand for the annual festival is so high that fans can wait up to 10 years for a ticket.

(Agencies)

Spears to open MTV Video Music Awards

Singer Britney Spears arrives at the Cannes festival palace to attend the NRJ Music Awards in Cannes in this January 24, 2004 file photo.

Sept. 4 -- It's Britney, baby, one more time. Despite her train-wreck performance at the MTV Video Music Awards last year, the network confirms Spears will kick off the show once again.

But it won't be a performance. Instead, MTV Networks Music Group President Van Toffler said Wednesday, it'll be something "fun and unexpected" on Sunday night's show.

Unexpected is probably the kindest way to describe Spears' performance at last year's VMAs. In what was heavily promoted as the troubled singer's comeback, she instead gave an unfocused, almost unwatchable performance of "Gimme More," one of the many low points in her year of debacles.

So what made Spears and MTV reunite one more time?

"MTV has long played an important role in my career. How can I not be there to kick off their 25th VMAs? I'm excited to open the entire show, to say hi to my fans and to be nominated," Spears said in a statement.

"I think for Britney, people are rooting for her, and she's really on the road to recovery," Toffler said, noting that MTV had nominated her for three VMAs, including video of the year, for her clip "Piece of Me."

"It feels like it's her year," he added. "It's our 25th anniversary of the VMAs, and she's been such a critical piece of MTV's history."

While she bombed in 2007, Spears has given the VMAs many highlights over the years, from her kiss with Madonna to her performance with a writhing snake.

Spears also equals ratings gold: Last year's VMAs were up 23 percent over the 2006 show.

In recent months, Spears, who's working on a new album, has appeared to have cleaned up her act (although a judge on Wednesday refused to dismiss a misdemeanor driving without-a-valid-license case against her). Her father James has been in control of her personal and professional matters as her legal conservator, and she drew high ratings and positive reviews when she made guest appearances on CBS' "How I Met Your Mother" earlier this year.

So far, the confirmed performers for Sunday's show include the Jonas Brothers, Lil Wayne, Rihanna, T.I. and Kid Rock.

Toffler also raised the possibility of another troubled pop icon appearing: Michael Jackson.

"We've been talking to him as well, I don't know if that's going to happen," he said. "People fall in and fall out up until the day of the show."

(Agencies)

In Switzerland: diamond made of ashes of dead

Sept. 3 -- Diamonds really are forever. Algordanza, a small company based in the mountainous southeast of Switzerland, uses the ashes of dead people to make diamonds as a permanent memento for their nearest and dearest.

Photo shows a grain of yellow diamond which was made by LIfeGem company of the U.S. using human bone ash.Algordanza, a small company based in the mountainous southeast of Switzerland, uses the ashes of dead people to make diamonds as a permanent memento for their nearest and dearest.

And with prices starting at less than 5,000 euros (7,488 U.S. dollars), the jewels are not solely the preserve of the jetset.

"Some people find it helpful to go to the cemetery and grieve, and they leave their grief in the cemetery," said Algordanza Chairman Veit Brimer.

"There are some people who, for whatever reason, do not want to have this farewell.

"Astonishingly these are mainly Christian people. They say: 'Why should I say goodbye? I'll see my husband in 15 years in heaven anyway'," Brimer said.

(Agencies)

Hundreds of high heeled women sprint for world record in Sydney

Women wear stiletto heels in a race for a prize of 5,000 Australian dollars (4,250 U.S. dollars) at Circular Quay in Sydney Sept. 2, 2008. Over 260 women broke the world record for the most runners in a high heels sprint, said organisers.

CANBERRA, Sept. 2-- With three-inch high-heel shoes on feet, 265 ladies tore up an 80-meter race track at Sydney's Circular Quay on Tuesday to break the world record for the most people running in a "stiletto sprint".

Four hundred meter hurdler Brittney McGlone, 18, was first across the line, winning the 5,000 Aus dollar (4,250 U.S. dollars) award.

She was closely followed by dozens of leggy blondes and brunettes in green shorts, some of whom came off second best with scratches and scrapes from a few spills, according to a report of Australian Associated Press.

Former Australian sprinter Melinda Gainsford-Taylor had the job of inspecting the athletes and ensuring they were wearing three-inch heals and had the customary smooth legs.

An event spokeswoman said the current world record topped the previous world record of 150 ladies.

"It looks like Australia has smashed the current world record and should now hold the title for the most number of people ever to participate in a stiletto sprint," Australian representative for Guinness World Records Chris Sheedy said. 　

Brittney McGlone, 18, of Braidwood near Canberra runs to victory in a stiletto sprint race for a prize of 5,000 Australian dollars (4,250 U.S. dollars) at Circular Quay in Sydney Sept. 2, 2008. Over 260 women broke the world record for the most runners in a high heels sprint, said organisers.

Brittney McGlone, 18, of Braidwood near Canberra kisses her trophy after winning a stiletto sprint race for a prize of 5,000 Australian dollars (4,250 U.S. dollars) at Circular Quay in Sydney Sept. 2, 2008. Over 260 women broke the world record for the most runners in a high heels sprint, said organisers.