How considerate... Rock chick Taylor Momsen lets it all hang out in a slashed top but kindly covers her modesty with tape

She's made herself out to be the poster girl for controversy with her outspoken interviews and punk rock attitude.

And Taylor Momsen continued in her quest to make herself the centre of attention with her latest public appearance at the Download festival, held at Donington Park in Leicestershire.

The 17-year-old threw on a loose-fitting top that exposed her chest, but she was considerate enough to at least cover her nipples with duct tape.
Her top is one she appears to have altered herself, slashing the neck, removing the sleeves and leaving the sides open.
The T-shirt depicts rock band Sonic youth with the slogan Confusion is sex. Conquest for death.

Taylor and her group took to the Download stage to perform to a rain-drenched, yet receptive crowd.

They worked their way through a selection of tracks from their album, Light Me Up, including popular track Makes Me Wanna Die.

Taylor worked on the album with her band for two years, and it has been released to a good reception.

Speaking about the reaction to the album she recently told the Huffington Post: 'I worked on it for two years. I am really relieved that it's finally come out and I can let the music speak for itself.
'You can talk all you want, but at the end of the day if the record is not good, it doesn't matter. The reception has been great.

'We went from playing a 100-seat club to a 3,000 venue, and once the record came out, we've started seeing fans singing every word.'

She also cast doubt on her future as an actress.
Asked if she would go back to acting, Taylor revealed: 'I don't know... maybe at some point. It's certainly not what I think about.

'It's something I enjoyed and it's a big part of my life since three years old, but I'm really happy doing what I'm doing. I won't say I'll never act again but music is what I think about.'

Momsen's look is not the carefully crafted work of PR image-makers. In fact, the former child star fired her stylist because she was unhappy with the squeaky-clean look they had been developing.
She told MTV: 'I think firing my stylist has allowed me to be more free.

'I was getting moulded into this thing that wasn’t who I am.'

The former Gossip Girl actress explained that she dresses for herself, rather than to be provocative, and likens choosing her clothes to dressing her doll collection.
'I do myself up kind of like a doll. I have a doll collection and I look at their outfits and kind of imitate them.

'I still wear pieces from when I was in f*****g middle school,' she added - which, given her age, wasn't all that long ago.

Her love of vamping it up has even led some to draw comparisons between her and rocker Courtney Love.
In a recent interview with Entertainment Weekly, Momsen responded to the comparison.

'I don't wanna be Courtney Love - I wanna be Kurt Cobain. He's brilliant and his songs are genius,' she said.

'The Hole records are great,' she continued.

'Everyone always compares me to Courtney Love because they think we like dress the same and we both have blond hair, wear lipstick and dresses. But I'm sorry, don't a lot of girls dress like that? I look at Nirvana. I don't look at Hole.'

Read More

NBA Finals: Dirk And Dallas Mavericks Vangiush Miami Heat As True Team

The bashing of LeBron James was surely an entertaining element of The Finals. His 9-point scoring drop-off was the biggest ever for a player who averaged 25 points or more during the regular season And whether you're a proponent of the plus/minus statistic or not, nobody can ignore his -24 in Game 6. He consistently passed up open jumpers and attacking opportunities.

But Sunday night was about the Dallas Mavericks and the incredible resiliency this team showed throughout the playoffs -- especially The Finals.

Dirk Nowitzki validated his spot in the pantheon of basketball greats. His subpar 9-27 shooting performance was but a minor blip on the radar of an MVP series and MVP-type of season, and by scoring 10 points in the fourth quarter, he became the anti-LeBron.

Jason Terry and his surprising trash-talk rebounded from a rough start to the series by completing the season with a flurry of timely jump shots and 3-point daggers. After Game 3, he challenged LeBron to guard him for seven straight games. As it turned out, he only needed six.

As great as Terry was, isn't it fair to suggest that Dirk's supporting cast was above-average at best? Jason Kidd is 38 and became the oldest point guard ever to start in The Finals. Nobody wanted Shawn Marion a year ago. DeShawn Stevenson was an afterthought. J.J. Barea is 5'8". Tyson Chandler was considered a high school bust by many and Brian Cardinal's nickname is 'The Custodian.' Not to mention, Caron Butler -- arguably the team's best perimeter defender and second best scorer -- never got out of street clothes. As a friend proclaimed to me last night; "these are all solid players, but look at who they went up against."

Marion parlayed whatever inner "Matrix" he had left, hitting his patented array of post-up floaters and playing superb defense. Stevenson three-goggled the crowd into a frenzy with clutch buckets and showed off stout defense as well. Kidd was vintage Kidd -- facilitating as only he can -- while Barea split about 327 double-teams and showed that even short guys can dominate in the paint. On the defensive end, Chandler -- acquired a season ago -- shut down the paint and controlled the glass, playing a crucial role in the Mavs' shedding of the 'soft' label that plagued this franchise for so long.

Say what you want about the normally boisterous Mark Cuban, he has crafted a winner by assembling team-first guys and a head coach who employs a winning style even if it means employing controversial tactics. Rick Carlisle started Barea when he was shooting just 5-23 after three games, was the first coach to consistently use a zone defense in the playoffs and made opportune in-game adjustments and proper substitutions -- unlike Heat counterpart Erik Spoelstra.

As maligned as James has been, much of the blame for the Heat loss falls on coach Spoelstra.

As I noted before Game 6, his refusal to rest James in this series was vexing, as was his inability to incorporate Chris Bosh into the offense more. Bosh's capacity to hit high post jump shots was the one soft spot in the Dallas zone. In Game 6, he again provided a stellar effort, converting on 7 of 9 shots and clearly becoming the Heat's relief valve when it struggled to make perimeter jumpers. But nine shots for Bosh is a joke.

But this is really about the Mavericks and what they did do, not about what the Heat didn't do.

Just think about some of the star power that this Dallas team overcame in the playoffs: LaMarcus Aldridge, Kevin Durant, Kobe Bryant, Pau Gasol, Chris Bosh, Dwyane Wade and of course, LeBron. And, think of the pedigree of two all-time great power forwards who Dirk now has one more title than; Charles Barkley and Karl Malone. And don't forget about Kidd; another future Hall of Famer who no longer has to worry about being ringless.

With the 2011-12 NBA season in jeopardy, it's hard to know what exactly we should expect next fall. The new collective bargaining agreement is far from being solved and already, several players have hinted at going overseas while the league sorts out the ensuing mess. Sadly, if a lockout occurs, we may not see any more pro hoops until the new year.

For Mavericks fans everywhere though, that means they may be able to bask in the wake of championship glory a little longer. After a painful wait of 31 years, something tells me that would be just fine by them.

Read More

VF Corp. to buy bootmaker Timberland Co. for $2.2 billion

NEW YORK — VF Corp., whose brands include Wrangler, Nautica, The North Face and Portland-founded Lucy, said Monday it will buy boot and clothing maker Timberland Co. for more than $2.2 billion.
VF plans to make Timberland part of its outdoor and actions sports business, and it said Timberland's headquarters will remain in Stratham, N.H. With the addition of Timberland, VF's outdoor and action sports business, which also includes Vans, Jansport, Eastpak and other brands, will make up 50 percent of the company's total revenue.
Companies in VF's portfolio compete with Oregon-based Nike, while Timberland competes with Oregon companies LaCrosse Footwear Inc., owner of Danner Boots, and Columbia Sportswear Co.
VF is offering $43 for each Timberland share, a premium of 43.4 percent to the latest Timberland closing price.
Timberland shares climbed $12.76, or 42.6 percent, to $42.75 in pre-market trading. Timberland stock has traded between $15.07 and $45.27 in the last year.
Greensboro, N.C.-based VF said the boards of both companies have approved the deal. It expects the sale to close during the third quarter.
Timberland is expected to have about $1.6 billion in sales in 2011, and VF said it is targeting annual revenue growth of 10 percent for the company.
VF said the deal will add 25 cents per share to its profit and $700 million to its revenue in 2011. It said the deal will add 75 cents to its profit in 2012. Those estimates include transaction expenses of about 20 cents per share this year and 15 cents per share in 2012.
Timberland, which also owns the SmartWool brand, made its name in the 1970s with its waterproof heavy duty boot and later, boat shoes. The company suffered from a sales drop during the recession. Results have improved in recent quarters, but in May the company missed first-quarter expectations, causing its shares to plummet. The company's stock closed down 28 percent on Friday from its price prior to the earnings report in May.
The acquisition gives VF ways to cut costs, an opportunity to better position the Timberland brand, and hidden growth drivers with Timberland's other brands, Earthkeepers and Smart Wool, said Wall Street Strategies analyst Brian Sozzi.
"This is a fantastic deal strategically and valuation wise for VF Corp.," Sozzi said.

Read More

Video and Images: The Nine Lives of Chloe King

Among the new series premiering this summer is a new supernatural offering from ABC Family, a network still bearing the stigma for some fans of being the folks who killed off Kyle XY without even resolving the season 3 plotlines, much less the loose ends from the series overall. Not that we're at all bitter about that. No, not at all.

In the new show, called The Nine Lives of Chloe King, Skyler Samuels (Gigi in Wizards of Waverly Place) stars as Chloe King, a teenager who discovers she is the descendant of an ancient race--a legacy that includes special powers, including enhanced speed, hearing, agility, the ability to climb objects using her claws--and, oh yeah, surviving death. She also inherits the responsibility of protecting everyone from human assassins, which have hunted them for thousands of years. And of course, alongside all this she has to juggle boys, high school, boys, and boys.

Read More

American Express Drives Digital Access to Fans at the 2011 U.S. Open at Congressional Country Club

NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--American Express announced today the launch of its new Course Curator digital concierge that is available during the 2011 U.S. Open at Congressional Country Club in Bethesda, Md. The Course Curator gives American Express® Cardmembers a customized U.S. Open experience with suggestions on where to find the best action, concessions, golf course and championship faces, expert analysis and guest services, all based on personal preferences. Course Curator is complimentary and available at the American Express Championship Experience along with the popular CourseCast TVs and Radios featuring the official ESPN Radio broadcast, presented exclusively by American Express.

“American Express is proud to continue its partnership with the USGA to not only provide fans with unprecedented access to prestigious events, but to enhance how they experience the game,” said Alexander Chang, Vice President, Global Sponsorships and Access, American Express. “We are continuing to connect our Cardmembers and golf fans to the sport by creating innovative, digital tools that create memorable experiences and provide a greater level of service -- something they have come to expect from American Express.”

Enhancing the Fan Experience at the U.S. Open

Located near the main entrance to the course, the American Express Championship Experience provides fans with an extraordinary U.S. Open experience. An array of historic memorabilia, interactive elements and artifacts from the USGA Museum will be on display, including touchscreen applications that will provide a unique look inside the game of golf through the eyes of our nation’s presidents. With highlights that appeal to avid players and general spectators, this year's American Express Championship Experience will include:

Course Curator Digital Concierge – New to this year’s Open, the Course Curator digital concierge service allows Cardmembers to program their day around what they want to see and know, providing a truly tailored U.S. Open experience. A short questionnaire identifying key priorities for each golf fan will produce a customized itinerary featuring where and when to catch favorite players, locations of on-course services, and tee times of golfers. Cardmembers can check-in at Course Curator kiosks located at various locations around the course to get updated information and connect with their social networks including Facebook, Twitter and Foursquare.
ESPN Radio – Presented exclusively by American Express, golf fans on and off the course can follow all of the U.S. Open action on the ESPN Radio broadcast available on ESPNRadio.com, the official iPhone Application of the U.S. Open, and the CourseCast TVs and Radios. Fans that tweet questions using #AskAmexGolf could have their question answered live, on-air by one of the ESPN golf commentators during the championship.
CourseCast TV – Cardmembers will have exclusive access to hand-held televisions, powered by FanVision, delivering updated player information and a live telecast of the championship as well as commentary and updates live from ESPN Radio. New this year, Course Cast TVs will feature a live Twitter feed of the U.S. Open conversation happening around the course and across the country. TVs will be available Thursday – Sunday during championship play only.
CourseCast Radio – Cardmembers and fans can also enjoy complimentary radio devices and experience the play-by-play commentary and live updates from the ESPN Radio broadcast. Radios will be available Thursday – Sunday during championship play only.
American Express Media Wall –Golf fans can stay updated on all the action on the course from inside the American Express Championship Experience. Featuring real-time news and highlights from the U.S. Open, the American Express Media Wall will include live scoring updates, the leaderboard, fun facts, tournament information, news and other alerts.
Professional Instruction – Cardmembers and fans will have access to lessons by PGA of America Professionals in one of four hitting bays. Following the event, Cardmembers will receive a video-enhanced instructional experience to revisit the tips received.
The American Express Hospitality Chalet – American Express Cardmembers have the opportunity to access one of only four on-course destinations for hospitality and golf viewing. Located on the 11th fairway, this premium facility features upgraded food & beverage options providing fans with a cool place to relax and watch the championship.
Giveaways and Insights from the Pros – Friday through Sunday, American Express will host former Touring Professionals and industry experts in the American Express Championship Experience who will share their insights on the game and the championship. Golf fans who stop by the Championship Experience can also register for a chance to win one of seven limited-edition customized staff bags featuring future U.S. Open host sites that American Express will give away at the conclusion of the championship.
Continued Support of the USGA and the U.S. Open Championship

American Express is a proud supporter of the USGA and its mission to preserve golf’s past, foster its future and champion its best interests for everyone who enjoys the game. Away from the course, golf fans everywhere will be able participate in the action at the 2011 U.S. Open through the official U.S. Open iPhone application and innovative features on USOpen.com presented by American Express.

Official iPhone Application of the U.S. Open presented by American Express – American Express has partnered with the USGA on the free U.S. Open iPhone application to provide fans with live streaming of the ESPN Radio coverage, real-time scores, course information, social networking, news and photos. Fans can also join in on the conversation using the #AskAmexGolf hashtag.
USGA Membership – The USGA will have membership staff available at the American Express Championship Experience to redeem member-only offers including a choice of commemorative prints of the Blue Course at Congressional Country Club. Staff will also register new USGA members and provide information on rules and etiquette.
World Golf Tour incentives made possible by American Express – American Express has partnered with World Golf Tour (WGT) to reward Cardmembers who play the online golf game and purchase WGT credits with any American Express Card. Upon checkout, users will be rewarded with double the number of WGT Virtual Pro Shop credits when using an American Express Card.
In addition to the 2011 on-site programming, American Express is currently offering early access to daily 2012 U.S. Open Trophy Club and 1895 Club tickets. Now thru June 19th, Cardmembers who purchase tickets will receive a complimentary USGA Championships Calendar. Visit usga.org/amex for more information. For full details regarding American Express' onsite activities and offers, visit www.americanexpress.com/entertainment.

About American Express

American Express is a global services company, providing customers with access to products, insights and experiences that enrich lives and build business success. Learn more at www.americanexpress.com and connect with us on www.facebook.com/americanexpress, www.twitter.com/americanexpress and www.youtube.com/americanexpress.

About USGA

The United States Golf Association is the national governing body of golf for the U.S. and Mexico. The USGA’s most visible role is played out each season in conducting 13 national championships, including the U.S. Open. The USGA also writes the Rules of Golf, conducts equipment testing, funds research for better turf and a better environment, maintains a Handicap System, celebrates the history of the game and administers an ongoing grants program.

* OFFICIAL RULES

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. A PURCHASE WILL NOT INCREASE YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING. Void where prohibited. No Cardmember status necessary to enter or win. American Express 2011 U.S. Open Golf Championship Sweepstakes (“Sweepstakes”) begins on or about June 13, 2011 at 7:00 a.m. Eastern Time (“ET”) and ends on June 19, 2011 at 7:00 p.m. ET (“Sweepstakes Period”).

Read More

Jennifer Love Hewitt 'Law & Order: SVU' Casting No Longer Likely

The evidence now indicates that Jennifer Love Hewitt won't be joining "Law & Order: SVU."

Hewitt, who was reportedly in the running to join the cast of the hit NBC police procedural, is no longer being considered as an option for a revamped cast, Deadline reports.

The former "Ghost Whisperer" star was rumored to be close to joining the show as a sort of replacement for current star Mariska Hargitay, who will be reducing her role come midseason as she moves to an administrative position in the Special Victims Unit.

Perhaps the show's producers got wind of the fact that Love Hewitt is the worst reviewed film actress since 1985.

The show still needs another new lead, as longtime star Christopher Meloni announced that he would not be returning to "SVU" next season. His contract expired after last season, and was unable to reach an agreement with NBC.

It was a loss Hargitay felt deeply.

"For the past 12 years Chris Meloni has been my partner and friend, both on screen and off. He inspired me every day with his integrity, his extraordinary talent and his commitment to the truth. I love him deeply and will miss him terribly - I'm so excited to see what he'll do next," Hargitay told TV Line in late May.
Meanwhile, Ice-T will be back for at least two more seasons, as he just signed a new contract to stay in his supporting role.

Read More

Katy Perry's 'Last Friday Night' Gets Teen-Party Makeover From Rebecca Black Hanson, Kenny G and 'Glee' stars Darren Criss and Kevin McHale also guest-star in teen-movie homage.

What happened "Last Friday Night"? Katy Perry's alter ego Kathy Beth Terry is trying to figure that out. In the just premiered video, directed by Marc Klasfeld, Perry pays homage to the teen flicks of the '80s, with the help of quite a few famous friends.

In the midst of a rousing game of sudoku, the brace-faced, headgear-wearing, nerdy Kathy seems initially mad at the house party going on outside. So, what's a girl to do? Well, try to reason with the revelers and get them to stop, obviously.

But those revelers happen to include "Friday" singer Rebecca Black, house band Hanson, with an assist from Kathy Beth Terry 's crazy uncle Kenny G, and "Glee" stars Darren Criss and Kevin McHale, the latter of whom has a mad, fantasy-tinged crush on Kathy. And soon, rather than put an end to the festivities, she's drawn into the party, which includes the tropes from movies like "She's All That," "Can't Hardly Wait" and about five flicks by John Hughes.

After Black gives Perry a makeover, complete with spandex, big hair and funky earrings, she's hanging with all of the cool kids. She's drinking, dancing, vomiting and falling over drunk, while the song's lyrics talk about regretting the Friday-night actions that are inevitably documented and spread online.

And, of course, it all comes back to Saturday morning, when a hungover Kathy is both pleased and shocked by what happened the night before, as her passed-out guests and Facebook page remind her of it all. Her parents arrive on the scene, but they don't seem too angry at her party-girl antics, maybe because they're played by Debbie Gibson and Corey Feldman. The only real casualty of the party? Kathy's solar system model!

Read More