| American Idol off to insulting start
As American Idol returned to the airwaves on Tuesday night for the first time since Taylor Hicks was crowned Season Five's American Idol last May. Judging for the Idol ratings for its season premiere, fans have been waiting anxiously to see what Simon Cowell, Randy Jackson and Paula Abdul have to say about the next batch of Idol hopefuls. However, after Wednesday's recap of the auditions from Seattle, fans have been left wondering if Fox's ratings mammoth is heading towards a season of insults. .
Ealing: Blog sparks pass fury
AN Ealing councillor's blog has caused shockwaves in City Hall, with London mayor Ken Livingstone becoming embroiled in a debate over Freedom bus passes for pensioners. Cllr Phil Taylor, deputy portfolio holder for finance and performance, argued on his personal website that the Freedom Pass should be "re-targeted" away from most pensioners to the "very old". But in a surprise move Mr Livingstone has this week joined the debate saying the scheme should be "defended from the escalating attacks". .
Ultimate Team Up hosts hunt for handicapped marksmen
Gene White wanted a place to go hunting in the Atmore area and the Matthews family farm was that place. White and 13 other physically handicapped individuals enjoyed a three-day deer hunting experience on the 9,500-acre plot of land owned by Hooper Matthews III and family Jan. 9-11. "The Matthews are precious people," hunt participant Kimberly Jernigan said. The land has been in the Matthews family since 1902 and the late Hooper "Big Hoop" Matthews Jr. had planned the National Wild Turkey Federation sponsored event last year. "Daddy was the one who planned the event and now we have named it to honor him," Matthews III said. "It is also in memory of my aunt Betty La Penna Matthews and uncle Wefel Matthews." Matthews said he has a special place in his heart for his uncle Wefel, and "Big Hoop" and Matthews III built a hydraulic lift for uncle Wefel.
Nassau School Sued For Refusing Deaf Teen's Service Dog
NASSAU COUNTY---A Nassau County school is facing a $150 million lawsuit in federal court for refusing to allow the service dog of a deaf Westbury teen to accompany him to classes. The East Meadow School District is being sued by John Cave Jr. and his parents, John and Nancy Cave, after school officials refused to allow the 14-year-old to bring the dog to class. Supt. Robert Dillon says that service dogs are banned from the school "to foster a safe and effective school environment" and claims that the dog would pose a health and safety hazard to other students and staff. Both the Caves say that the school district is violated the Americans with Disabilities Act. Simba, a two-year-old Labrador retriever, became John Jr.'s service dog in December after receiving six months of training.
Missouri's Katy Trail: a Year-Round Adventure
Whether you're a bicyclist, hiker, nature lover or history buff, Missouri's Katy Trail State Park offers an opportunity to explore Missouri's natural beauty and rich history year-round. The long-distance walking and biking trail, winding more than 225 miles through central Missouri, welcomes people of all ages to discover the heart of Missouri. Extensions are planned at both ends of the trail. .
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