Farewell...

... Joel Siegel, Entertainment Reporter

From ABC:
ABC News and WABC-TV are saddened to announce the passing of our beloved colleague and friend, Joel Siegel. Siegel, 63, died late this afternoon following a long and courageous battle with cancer. He was surrounded by family and friends, including his wife, Ena Swansea.


Mr. Siegel joined “Good Morning America” in 1981 and was a regular on the broadcast ever since. His weekly movie reviews on Fridays were eagerly anticipated by the “GMA” audience, the film industry and all of his colleagues. Siegel’s great sense of humor, warmth, and insight into the films he reviewed and the industry he covered made him one of the most influential and respected members of his profession.


“Joel was an important part of ABC News, and we will miss him,” said ABC News President David Westin. ”He was a brilliant reviewer and a great reporter. But much more, he was our dear friend and colleague. Our thoughts and prayers are with Joel’s family.”

“For 31 years, Joel Siegel has given Channel 7 viewers his honest opinion on entertainment,” said Dave Davis, President and General Manager of WABC-TV. “His reviews of movies and plays were written and delivered in Joel’s clever style -- revealing, refreshing and always filled with his smart humor. No one had more fun writing about a bad movie than Joel. His dedication to work while he has battled cancer with strength and dignity has been an inspiration to all of us. His contributions to Eyewitness News will never be forgotten.”

In addition to his film reviews, Mr. Siegel interviewed countless actors and entertainers, as well as fellow critics throughout his remarkable career. His annual Oscar broadcast, “Joel Siegel’s Road to the Academy Awards,” aired for ten years on WABC-TV and was syndicated to more than 100 markets around the country. Mr. Siegel always led GMA’s coverage of the Academy Awards, traveling to Los Angeles each and every year to bring viewers firsthand reports from Hollywood’s biggest night.


As a young man, Mr. Siegel took up the fight for civil rights registering voters in Georgia in 1964. And for the rest of his life he remained committed to others. He was outspoken about his battle with cancer, reporting on his illness and testifying to Congress on behalf of others afflicted with cancer. In 1991, Siegel and actor Gene Wilder founded Gilda's Club, a not-for-profit organization which operates facilities that offer emotional and social support for cancer patients and their families and friends. Ever since, Siegel continued to help raise funds for the organization, which now has branches around the country. He served as its president until his death.


Mr. Siegel was born in Los Angeles, California on July 7, 1943 and graduated cum laude from UCLA. He began his career working as a radio newscaster, a book reviewer for The Los Angeles Times, and a freelance writer for such publications as Rolling Stone and Sports Illustrated. Mr. Siegel was also a joke writer for Sen. Robert Kennedy and worked as a copywriter and producer at an advertising agency, where his creative projects included, among other things, inventing ice cream flavors for Baskin-Robbins!


In 1972, Mr. Siegel arrived in New York and worked as a feature reporter for WCBS-TV. He also hosted “Joel Siegel’s New York” on WCBS Radio.


In 1976, he joined WABC-TV’s “Eyewitness News” as the station’s entertainment critic.


Throughout his career, Mr. Siegel was honored with five New York Emmy Awards; the Public Service Award for “distinguished news reporting and commitment to freedom of the press” from the Anti-Defamation League of B'nai B'rith; and the New York State Associated Press Broadcasters Association Award for “general excellence in individual reporting.”


Mr. Siegel was also an author. In 2003, he wrote “Lessons for Dylan: From Father to Son” -- a book for his son -- understanding that he might not beat his battle with cancer. Mr. Siegel also wrote the book for “The First,” a musical play produced on Broadway in the 1981-82 season that told the story of the legendary Jackie Robinson. He was honored for that work with a 1982 Tony Award nomination, making him the only drama critic ever to receive one.


Mr. Siegel is survived by his young son, Dylan, and wife, Ena Swansea, an artist.

"The Office" Summer Scavenger Search

STARTS MONDAY JULY 9TH!!!

OWNERS OF SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE “OFFICE” FANSITES ARE BRINGING YOU A CONTEST TO HELP FIGHT THE SUMMER REPEAT BLUES!

Are you the Ultimate Office fan? Do you consider yourself the Dunderhead of all Dunderheads? Do you have what it takes to join the Dwight Army of Champions, go head to head with Michael's jokes, out-weird Creed, out-drink Meredith...you get the picture! We are looking for you! You probably visit a fan-site to two from time to time, why not take a chance to win some nifty gifties while doing it?

The owners of TheTwoCents.com, LifeInTheOffice.com, OfficeQuotes.net, JelloStapler.com, TheOfficeAlliance.com, mtt.just-once.net, Flonkerton, The Office LiveJournal Community, and TheOfficeChat.com are combining to bring you this summer-long adventure through the cyberspace!

PRIZE LIST FOR GRAND CHAMPION:- Dwight Bobblehead from NBC Store- TheTwoCents Coffee Mug- Call of Duty video game... MORE TO COME!!

CLICK HERE FOR ALL THE DETAILS!!!

"The Office" Conference Room - Marathon #2

[Updated
6/29
2:45PM]

Another Thursday and another sampling of our favorite show. Even in repeats! It was pure Office Genius!

This week we got: Booze Cruise, Office Olympics and The Secret!

GOOD TIMES HAD BY ALL!!

This week we ask our panel of Office Site Owners:

Top 3 All-Time Dwight/Angela Moments!!

Everyone in the Conference Room... NOW!

----------
Name: KP
Office Site: TheTwoCents.com
Booze Cruise Review: I loved this episode. It's what the first two seasons were all about... will Jim tell her!?!? There's that, now famous, 40+ seconds of silence on the top of that boat and the entire world held its breath when it first aired, and I almost did again watching it a second time. One of my favorite moments wasn't even in the broadcast. The deleted scene of Creed rocking the guitar with the band was phenominal! Meredith coming out of her 'shell' with Captain Jack! Jim dumping Katie, Coporate Spies, I loved it all!
Favorite Moment: The 40+ Seconds of Silence
Favorite Quote: Jim: That's... great. You know, to tell the truth, I used to have a big thing for Pam, so...
Michael: Really? You're kidding me. You and Pam? Wow. I would have never have put you two together. You really hid it well. God! I usually have a radar for stuff like that. You know, I made out with Jan...
Jim: Yeah, I know.
Michael: Yeah? Yep. Well, Pam is cute.
Jim: Yeah. She's really funny, and she's warm. And she's just... well, anyway.
Michael: Well, if you like her so much, don't give up.
Jim: She's engaged.
Michael: BFD. Engaged ain't married.
Jim: Huh.
Michael: Never, ever, ever give up.
Overall Episode Grade: A

Office Olympics
Favorite Moment: Michaels face as the doves fly by.
Favorite Quote: Dwight: I have been Michael's #2 guy for about 5 years. And we make a great team. We're like one of those classic famous teams. He's like Mozart, and I'm like Mozart's friend. No. I'm like Butch Cassidy, and Michael is like Mozart. You try and hurt Mozart; you're going to get a bullet in your head courtesy of Butch Cassidy.

Overall Episode Grade: B+

The Secret
Favorite Moment: Michael doing his hair like Jim.
Favorite Quote: Dwight: Otherwise, it's just malfeasance for malfeasanceses-ses sake.
Overall Episode Grade: B

Top 3 All-Time Dwight/Angela Moments:
- Parking Lot at Phyllis' Wedding.
- No Cookie!
- Angela watching Dwight make his speech.

----------
Name: Fancy New Beesly
Office Site: Fancy New Beesly on MySpace
Booze Cruise Review: If I had to make a list of my top 10 all-time favorite episodes of The Office Booze Cruise would be in it. From Jim's bet that Michael would yell "I'm the king of the world!!!" within the first hour to Dwight looking at Angela from behind the fake wheel saying,"Do you want us to run aground woman?" Aside from Beach Games I think this is the best episode was that was ever taken outside of the office. Michael's superiority battle against Captain Jack was so great. The way Jim broke up with Katy "No. Let's break up." was hilarious but completely heartbreaking because I think that was the point when the audience realized that Jim was basically hopelessly in love with Pam. The high point..the very best...was in the end when the writers do one of the things that makes The Office such a WONDERFUL show...they had the characters achieve what they wanted to do most but in a way that they would never expect & was so natural to their character. The motivational speech that Michael gives to Jim "Never, ever, ever give up." should have earned Carell the best actor in a comedy Emmy that year.
Favorite Moment: Dwight being given the fake wheel....
Favorite Quote: Katy: Do you think we'll ever be like that? Jim: No. Katy: What is WRONG with you? Why did you even bring me here? Jim: I don't know. We should break up.
Overall Episode Grade: A

Office Olympics
Favorite Moment: The real estate guy thinking that Michael & Dwight are gay.
Favorite Quote: Kevin: The candle smells like cookies. Jim: Yes, it does my friend. Indeed, it does.
Overall Episode Grade: A

The Secret
Favorite Moment: When everyone (Kelly & Angela especially) find out that Jim has a crush on Pam.
Favorite Quote: "And I plan on keeping that secret...for...as long as I possibly can."-Michael
Overall Episode Grade: A

Top 3 All-Time Dwight/Angela Moments:
*Phyllis' Wedding: Dwight-You look like the Queen of England.
*Dwight telling Angela that she can be in charge of the women when they plot to overthrow Michael
*In The Injury when Dwight walks up behind Angela & says,"You're sweeter than candy" & then spanks her.

----------
Name: Ken_TOC
Office Site: theofficechat.com
Booze Cruise Review: We begin with a particularly strong cold-open with a classic prank on Dwight: Jim has managed, with a little aiding and abetting from his vending machine tech buddy Steve, to replace every snack selection in the machine with an item from Dwight's desk. After Pam enters the break room and purchases Dwight's pencil cup for the very reasonable price of $1, Dwight attempts to buy back his things only to discover that his wallet is one of the many fine selections of Schrute property trapped behind the impenetrable plexiglass of the vending machine. A very David Blaine-like feat by Jim...who hands Dwight a bag of nickels to liberate his possessions. Cut to the opening credits. Brilliance.

The major plotline of the episode is Michael Scott's first-quarter camaraderie event aboard the sub-luxurious yet functionally seaworthy "ship", the Lake Wallenpaupack Princess. At night. In January. In Pennsylvania . And it will be a booze cruise....to Meredith's delight and AA's chagrin. As we see the employees and their guests board the vessel, Michael makes Gilligan's Island references about all of them...with Kelly as the native, Dwight as Gilligan, and Stanley as one of the Globetrotters...classic Michael. We also see Katy, Jim's girlfriend, introduced to us in the "Hot Girl" episode of season 1, played by the amazing Amy Adams (Don't believe me? Rent "Junebug". Told ya.) As the guests are boarding, we see a brief power struggle between Captain Jack (the actual captain of the ship, deftly portrayed by Rob Riggle of SNL and Daily Show fame) and Captain Mike (captain of the "Dunder Mifflin is a ship" analogy). This theme will continue throughout the episode. Shortly after the ship has sailed, a limbo competition is followed by the dance competition...a perfect opportunity to see some fantastic Steve Carrell physical comedy. I couldn't help but be reminded of David Brent's awesome display of charity inspired rug-cutting in the BBC version.

Booze cruise is "JAM" packed with JAM action. The dynamic between the two of them is put to severe tests. When Pam, Roy, Jim, and Katy are sitting together at the cool kids' table, we see how painfully mismatched both couples are: the sensitive guy and the cheerleader on one side and the ex-high school jock and the art student on the other. Anyone for a Yankee swap? After Roy has done a shot of liquor out of a snorkel, Pam has had her fill of fratboy hijinks and heads out to the deck, followed closely by Jim. She reveals to Jim that she sometimes doesn't get Roy . They share an intense gaze into each other's eyes for about five seconds, and then Pam awkwardly breaks it off and using the cold as an excuse to go back inside. After a drunken episode of soul-searching brought on by Captain Jack's military tales, Roy decides to seize the moment and set a wedding date with Pam, announcing it on the band's PA system. Roy 's announcement serves as a catalyst for Jim to finally dump the empty-headed, purse-peddling Katy. Trapped on the ship, he has to endure her "woman scorned" glare for the rest of the outing. Once the wedding announcement celebration has subsided, Michael finally gets to give his oft-interrupted motivational speech, only to have his "ship is sinking" analogy taken literally by the non-Dunder Mifflin guests, causing one of them to dive overboard (which could have easily been prevented by Kevin if it didn't involve him getting out of his seat). Oops. This results in many things: a wet booze cruiser, an angry Captain Jack, a topless-in-public Meredith (again), and Michael restrained with hardware store zip ties. At the end of the episode, Michael does finally deliver a motivational speech...not about Dunder Mifflin; about love. Once informed of Jim's true feelings for Pam, Michael tells him to never give up...to do whatever it takes to get his girl. Overall, a solid episode with many key plot moments and great Dwight and Michael shenanigans.
Favorite Moment: When Michael and Jim have just had a serious man-to-man, heart-to-heart conversation and Dwight nerds up the vibe by telling them that he's steering the ship back to shore....with the pretend steering wheel mounted on the deck for children to play with. Michael informs Dwight of his navigational impotence - "It's a fake wheel, dummy!"
Favorite Quote: Michael: "Now on this 'ship' that is the office...what is the sales department? Anyone?"
Darryl: "How 'bout the sales department is the sails?"
Michael (patronizing tone): "Yes, Darryl...the sales department makes sales. Good."
Overall Episode Grade: B

Office Olympics
Favorite Moment: Ryan napping in his car after unwittingly delivering Michael's carb-friendly breakfast two hours before work under the misapprehension that he needed to be there early for....work. Silly temp.
Favorite Quote: Jim: "I really love the...uhhh....paper triangle flicking and hitting things game"
Oscar: "Yeah."
Kevin: "We call it Hateball."
Jim: "Why?"
Kevin: "Because of how much Angela hates it." (Angela gives Kevin a baneful scowl through the glass cubicle partition)
Overall Episode Grade: A-

The Secret
Favorite Moment: At Jim's excruciating Hooters lunch with Michael, when Michael uses the lame "I will have the chicken breast, hold the chicken" line on Hooters girl Dana only to shrivel and order the gourmet hot dog when she challenges him.
Favorite Quote: Dwight: "Guess what I found out about Oscar tonight....he was lying about being sick! Should I have reported his malfeasance? Hmmm...probably. But now I know something he doesn't want me to know, so I can use his malfeasance to establish leverage. Otherwise, it’s just malfeasance for malfeasance's...'s......sake."
Overall Episode Grade: B+

Top 3 All-Time Dwight/Angela Moments:
1. Angela keeping up appearances at Casino Night by slapping Dwight for his celebratory kiss after throwing a winning 8 at craps. Her sly little smile caught by the camera crew reveals her closet penchant for sexy discipline.
2. Angela's precious expressions when she makes her co-workers recount Dwight's moment of heroism when he pepper sprayed Roy , saving Jim's pretty face from utter mutilation in "The Negotiation".
3. Angela taking the slow train to Philly to make sure that Dwight has plenty of "monkey cookie" when he's not networking at the Northeastern Mid-Market Office Supply Convention in "The Convention", only to be caught in bed and mistaken for a hooker by Jim.

----------
Name: Lauren
Office Site: Flonkerton
Booze Cruise Review: I dare say for me this is the definitive episode of Season 2, or at least it's a close second to "Casino Night." The episode is a series of classic moments: Jim's vendor machine prank on Dwight, the great ensemble banter in the conference room, Capt. Jack's special assignment for Dwight, Michael being "The Boss of Dancing", the 27-seconds of Silence, Roy's surprise announcement, Michael's poorly worded motivational presentation that earns him a spot in "The Brig", and of course Jim's unexpected heart-to-heart with Michael. Speaking of that "27 seconds of silence", I'm sure Greg Daniels got a few looks when he proposed having the romantic leads (of a comedy, no less) stare at each other with no dialog for half a minute. It wouldn't work on most shows, but thank God The Office isn't "most shows." It's simple, beautiful, and really just a perfect scene. It's also a bittersweet as I feel this is when Jim and Pam lose their "innocence" in a way. Up until this point they mostly bantered and plotted and innocently flirted as they both seemed relatively content with their "friends" status. However it's clear on the deck we're not dealing with simple friendship, not even a crush or an infatuation. Jim loves Pam deeply, he knows Roy is wrong for her, but he also knows even suggesting that Pam leaves the only man she's ever been with would scare her. Jim is at a crossroads at the end of this episode; he can continue to play Pam's best friend while hoping maybe someday it will become more, he can avoid her and date other women and hope the feelings will just fade, or he can risk a broken heart and speak the words he so desperately wanted to say during those 27 seconds. After Michael offers some Winston Churchill-esque advice, Jim smiles slightly and we're left with a feeling that there might be a some fight left in Jim after all. Favorite Moment: The 27 Seconds of Silence, followed closely by
Michael being "The Boss of Dancing"
Favorite Quote: Jim: "You know what? I would save the receptionist. I just wanted to clear that up."
Overall Episode Grade: A+

Office Olympics
Favorite Moment: Michael freaking out over the length of his mortgage. And of course, the invention of "Flonkerton" ;)
Favorite Quote: Dwight: "A thirty year mortgage at Michael's age essentially means that he's buying a coffin. If I were buying my coffin, I would get one with thicker walls so you couldn't hear the other dead people."
Overall Episode Grade: B+

The Secret
Favorite Moment: Michael crying as he begs Jim to still be his friend even after he told everyone of Jim's crush on Pam.
Favorite Quote:
Michael: What do you like best about Pam?
Jim: Uh, I really don't want to talk about it.
Michael: Is it her boobs, or...
Jim: Um, she's easy to talk to I guess and she's got a really good
sense of humor.
Michael: Really?
Jim: Uh-huh.
Michael: Never gets any of my jokes.
Jim: [glance to the camera] What about you?
Michael: Her boobs, definitely.
Jim: Wow, that's not what I meant.
Overall Episode Grade: A-

Top 3 All-Time Dwight/Angela Moments:
3. Angela slapping Dwight on Casino Night followed by that weirdly kinky look on her face.
2. Stealing away to dance together at Phyllis' Wedding
1. Making out on Angela's desk (and Jim catching them)

----------

According to ABC - Jim is Back!

“According to Jim” has been picked for a seventh season on the ABC Television network, it was announced today.

“When Brillstein-Grey approached me with the idea of doing a family show, I didn’t realize the family would extend so wide,” said Jim Belushi. “For six years, it’s been a joy being part of the ABC and Touchstone families and part of each and every family who have been loyal viewers of our show every week. This season will top all the rest. I’m thrilled to continue this seventh season with these extended families.”

Jim (Jim Belushi) has it all -- a gorgeous wife, Cheryl (Courtney Thorne-Smith), whom he challenges with his stubborn manliness but contagious charm; three precocious kids, Ruby (Taylor Atelian), Gracie (Billi Bruno) and Kyle (Conner Rayburn) and his brother-in-law, Andy (Larry Joe Campbell), his best friend, business partner and “partner in crime.” Completing the tight-knit family is Jim’s sister-in-law, Dana (Kimberly Williams-Paisley), who is now happily married with a rambunctious toddler to add to the family mix.

“According to Jim” stars Jim Belushi as Jim, Courtney Thorne-Smith as Cheryl, Kimberly Williams-Paisley as Dana, Larry Joe Campbell as Andy, Taylor Atelian as Ruby, Billi Bruno as Gracie and Conner Rayburn as Kyle.

Executive producers are Warren Bell, Suzanne Bukinik, Marc Gurvitz, Jim Belushi, Judd Pillot, John Peaslee, John D. Beck and Ron Hart. “According to Jim” is from ABC Studios in association with Brad Grey Television.

CBS Announces Big Brother 8 Cast

CBS announced today the identities of the 14 Houseguests who will compete in BIG BROTHER 8, as well as the new creative twist that will play out during the summer broadcasts.

As always, BIG BROTHER Houseguests should expect the unexpected. This season's twist will shock and most likely change the way some houseguests would have played the game had certain people not walked through the door.

On premiere night, Thursday, July 5 (8:00-9:00 PM, ET/PT), Houseguests will learn that some of them will be sharing the house with an enemy, a rival or someone with whom they have unfinished business -- in short, someone from their past who they had hoped never to see again or someone with whom there is an extreme amount of tension.

In addition to the surprise twist of an unwelcome person from their past, the premiere episode will reveal a new interactive element that will give viewers the most control they've ever had over someone in the BIG BROTHER house. For the first time… America is in the house.

One participant has been selected to be " America 's Player." At the conclusion of every episode, beginning Sunday, July 8 (8:00-9:00 ET/PT), a question will be asked of viewers where they will vote on an important assignment that " America 's Player" must complete. It could be a strategic move or a personal action. They must attempt to do what viewers request, including voting out a specific Houseguest. And, they can never tell anyone in the house that they are working on behalf of the viewers. But, they need to be careful…just like their fellow Houseguests, they can be voted out at any time. If " America 's Player" successfully accomplishes these assignments, they will be financially rewarded. Viewers will be able to vote on cbs.com or via text messaging on a mobile phone and will choose from multiple choice answers on each question. The prevailing vote must be completed by " America 's Player" in order for him or her to be rewarded.

BIG BROTHER follows a group of people living together in a house outfitted with dozens of cameras and microphones recording their every move 24 hours a day. One by one, the Houseguests will vote each other out of the house. At the end of three months, the last remaining Houseguest will receive the grand prize of $500,000.

BIG BROTHER 8 debuts Thursday, July 5 (8:00-9:00 PM, ET/PT) on the CBS Television Network. Following the premiere, BIG BROTHER 8 will be broadcast three nights weekly, on Sundays (8:00-9:00 PM, ET/PT), Tuesdays (9:00-10:00 PM, ET/PT) and the live eviction show, hosted by Julie Chen, on Thursdays (8:00-9:00 PM live ET/delayed PT).

Following are the 14 Houseguests, listed in alphabetical order, who will compete in BIG BROTHER 8:

AMBER, 27
Las Vegas
Separated
Cocktail Waitress

CAROL, 21
Lawrence, Kan.
Single
Student

DANIELE, 20
Huntington Beach, Calif.
Single
Waitress

DICK, 44
Los Angeles
Single
Bar Manager

DUSTIN, 22
Chicago
Single
Shoe Salesman

ERIC, 27
New York
Single
Talent Management Assistant

JAMEKA, 28
Waldorf, Md.
Single
School Counselor

JEN, 23
Beverly Hills, Calif.
Single
Nanny

JESSICA, 21
Haysville, Kan.
Single
College Student

JOE, 23
Chicago
Single
Receptionist

KAIL, 37 (Female)
McKenzie Bridge, Ore.
Married
Business Owner

MIKE, 26
Three Lakes, Wis.
Single
Painting Contractor

NICK, 25
Kimball, Minn.
Single
Former Pro Football Player

ZACH, 30
Burbank, Calif.
Single
Graphic Designer

BIG BROTHER 8 is executive produced by Emmy Award winner Allison Grodner and Rich Meehan, in association with Endemol U.S.A.

For more information on BIG BROTHER 8 and the 14 new Houseguests, log on to www.CBS.com.

Also, follow the show ALL series long on our sister site for Reality TV - www.RealityCheckByGina.com!

Tonight on "The Office"

We get another night of Office Marathon Action!

JOHN, ANGELA AND BRIAN HOST OFFICE MARATHON
Special Time 8:30/7:30c | 06.28.07 | TV14
John Krasinski, Angela Kinsey and Brian Baumgartner hosts a 90-minute Office marathon.

OFFICE OLYMPICS
8:30/7:30c TV14
06.28.2007
WHEN THE BOSS IS AWAY...Michael (Steve Carell, "Evan Almighty") has a panic attack when he tries to close the deal on his new condo. Meanwhile, while he and Dwight (Rainn Wilson) are away from the office, Jim (John Krasinski) and Pam (Jenna Fischer) organize an "office Olympics" where employees compete in ridiculous games. B. J. Novak also stars.
Watch Highlight

BOOZE CRUISE
9/8c TV14
06.28.2007
WON'T YOU LET ME TAKE YOU ON A SEA CRUISE - Michael (Steve Carell) takes the Dunder Mifflin crew on a freezing "motivational" booze cruise in January in an attempt to get them to accept his theories on leadership. To his frustration, they find the ship's captain more inspiring, and Jim (John Krasinski) becomes motivated to speak his heart to Pam (Jenna Fischer). Rainn Wilson, B.J. Novak also star.
Watch Highlight

THE SECRET
9:30/8:30c TV14
06.28.2007
Jim (John Krasinski) is worried Michael (Steve Carell) is going to tell others that he likes Pam (Jenna Fischer) so he has to unfortunately go along with being his best friend, which includes a lunch trip to Hooters. Rainn Wilson and B.J. Novak also star.
Watch Highlight

Check out TheTwoCents tomorrow as the Conference Room will open its doors once again and owners of many Office Fan-Sites give you their TwoCents about these episodes.

Studio 60 Signs Off

Tonight is the finale of Studio 60.

So, great actors, a great writer, and an amazing set aside, this show is going away because it failed to really find its own rhythm and thus failed to find an audience.

I wouldn't be too concerned for the people though. I think Matthew Perry, Bradley Whitford, D.L. Hughley, Aaron Sorkin, Stephen Weber, Timothy Busfield, Nathan Corddry, and Amanda Peet won't have any trouble finding work.

What Kind of Day Has It Been?
Tonight at 10:00 pm EST NBC
The long night for Danny, Jordan, Tom and Simon ends; Matt and Harriet's new beginning?

Going To The Museum? Yippee Ki Yay Mo....

John McClane has entered the Smithsonian!

Or rather, Bruce Willis has, and he brought some cool stuff with him!

According to an AP story, "Bruce Willis gave the Smithsonian Institution the sleeveless shirt, a promotional poster, an ID badge and the original script from the latest film, "Live Free or Die Hard," which was released Wednesday. The script arrived only Wednesday morning, Museum of American History Director Brent D. Glass said."

I love this museum, however, the Museum of American History is closed for renovations till next year. But the exhibit is hanging out, temporarily, over at the Air and Space Museum. You can see the ONLINE version here!

From Mars to Moonlight

It didn't take Jason Dohring long to find a new paycheck.

Dohring, who played "Logan" on the much beloved "Veronica Mars" has signed on to joint he new CBS series entitled "Moonlight".

"Moonlight" is about a private investigator who just happens to be a vampire. Dohring will play hedge-fund trader... who also happens to be a vampire.

Farewell...

... Liz Claiborne, Fashion Designer

Liz Claiborne passed away last night after a battle with cancer.

The Associated Press' article states: "The new approach to dressing revolutionized the department store industry, which had focused on stocking pants in one department and skirts in another.

"It's what the working woman needed," said Joanne Arbuckle, chairwoman of the art and design department at the Fashion Institute of Technology. "Her coordinated pieces — you went from the turtleneck to sweater to pants to the socks. It's like what Gap did for kids, and she did it beautifully."

Claiborne was 78.

They're BAAAACCCKKK!!!

Girl Power is about to flow all over the place!

Today the British Pop Group, The Spice Girls, announced they are reunited and it feels so good!

Their website boasts: "Hey everybody!! We're back!! Can you believe it!!"

They announced plans for a World Tour and tickets are now on sale for the first 11 stops, starting in Los Angeles on December 7th.

Now is the real question... is this a good thing?

A NEW "OFFICE" CONTEST!

Have The Summer Repeat Blues?!

NINE Different Websites featuring "The Office" WANT TO HELP!

A contest is coming involving www.TheTwoCents.com, www.LifeInTheOffice.com, www.OfficeQuotes.net, www.JelloStapler.com, www.TheOfficeAlliance.com, mtt.just-once.net, flonkerton.wordpress.com, community.livejournal.com/theoffice_us, and www.TheOfficeChat.com!!!

Prizes, Bragging Rights, and more!

Check ANY of these sites as announcements will be coming SOON!!

Fashion, Music and... Jeremy Piven!

FASHION ROCKS™, an entertainment special celebrating the best in fashion and music presented by Condé Nast Media Group, will kick off New York's Fall Fashion Week at Radio City Music Hall and will be broadcast, Friday, Sept. 7, 2007 (9:00-11:00 PM, ET/PT) on the CBS Television Network.

The fourth annual FASHION ROCKS™ is a star-studded concert that honors the extraordinary relationship between fashion and music and features a host of music's most glamorous trendsetters. The concert, hosted by Emmy Award winner and Golden Globe nominee Jeremy Piven ("Entourage"), will include performances by Aerosmith, Alicia Keys, Avril Lavigne, Carrie Underwood, Fall Out Boy, Fergie, Jennifer Hudson, Jennifer Lopez, Ludacris, Martina McBride, Santana and Usher. Additional performers and presenters will be announced at a later date.

OBO, an international fashion production company, will produce the fashion segments that appear throughout the concert. OBO most recently produced the 2007 Victoria 's Secret Fashion Show, as well as shows for Zegna, Marchesa, Tommy Hilfiger, Chloé and Behnaz Sarafpour, among others.

Models, Teens, Singers and More - NBC Wants You!!

Check out NBC's Casting Page and you can find all kinds of stuff! Here are a few!

Do you want to be a Deal or No Deal Model?
Open Calls are now available June 27 - 30 in Southern California.

Wednesday 6/27 Los Angeles, CA
Republic 11AM–3PM
650 North La Cienga Blvd
West Hollywood, CA 90069

Friday 6/29 Newport Beach, CA
Tentation Ultra Lounge 4PM-8PM
4647 Mac Arthur Blvd
Newport Beach, CA 92660

Saturday, 6/30 San Diego, CA
Stingaree Lounge 6PM-9PM
454 6th Avenue
San Diego, CA 92101

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DEAL OR NO DEAL
If you were unable to attend an open call, please submit a video tape. Follow the instructions below to find out how.

TO BE CONSIDERED AS A CONTESTANT:
1. Make a 5-minute personal videotape of you and the supporters you wish to have appear with you on TV.
2. Fill out an application (include a recent photo of each person)
3. Send it to our contestant department.


1. Making Your Videotape
Making a videotape audition for the program is very easy. Using a video camera, make us a 5-minute tape that tells us a little about yourself and what you would do with $1,000,000. Be sure to include the people you would like to appear with you on-camera as your "supporters." Be creative, show us your personality - tell us what makes you unique. Please start with your name and hometown. There is no "right" or "wrong" thing to say on your tape, we just want to get to know you.

Make sure we can see and hear you clearly.
-Label the tape with your name address and phone number.
-We can only accept VHS tapes (The ones that fit in your VCR). Transferring your camcorder tape to VHS can be accomplished easily. Use the Red, White, and Yellow cables that come with your camera to connect it to your VCR. Push play on your camera, and Record on your VCR. Please run a test and make sure your transfer worked properly.
-Be Kind, Rewind. Rewinding your tape to the beginning greatly increases our fondness for you.

2. Filling out the Application:
Adobe Reader is required to view the application. Click here to download a free copy if you do not have it installed.
Please take your time and answer the questions honestly. We will only accept completed and signed applications if they are accompanied by your videotape.

Include a recent photo:
Please enclose a recent personal photo of each person with the application. Make sure your photo(s) are clearly labeled with your names and phone numbers on the back. It is best, though not mandatory to send 2 clear photos of each person - one close up and one full body.

3. Sending Your Package
Please label your package and send it to:
DEAL OR NO DEAL CASTING
PO Box 1916
Culver City, CA 90232

To review, here is your "To Do" List:
1. Make one (1) 5 minute videotape
2. Label the tape with your name, address and phone number
3. Complete and sign an application
4. Include a few recent photos of you and your supporters.

Please note: Application materials will not be returned. Limit one application package per person.

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New Teen Reality Show - Now Casting

NEW NBC EDUCATIONAL TELEVISION PROGRAM - NOW CASTING!

Are you between 16 and 19 years old and in a relationship?

Would you like to move in with your boyfriend or girlfriend and have your own money and independence?

Are you and your partner ready for adult life and everything that goes with it?

NBC is looking for outgoing teenage couples eager to experience life as an adult. If you would like to live in your own house, take on adult responsibilities and temporarily move in with your partner as well as look after babies and children, then this is the show for you!

If interested email us a recent photo of you and your partner, a brief bio and a description of your current living situation to casting@loveproductions.net

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ATTENTION MUSIC LOVERS!! NEW NBC PRIMETIME MUSIC GAME SHOW

You don't have to sing it well - you just have to sing it right!

THE SINGING BEE, NBC's new, fun and exciting prime time music game show is looking for contestants who think they are the masters of song lyrics.

If you know the lyrics to the MOST POPULAR SONGS of all time — from classics to today’s hits — then this is your chance to show your stuff and take home BIG MONEY.

This is NOT a talent competition! This IS a chance to take your music knowledge and share it with the world!

For immediate consideration contact us at: casting@thesingingbee.com OR Call our contestant HOTLINE: 818-655-7340.

Please read the eligibility requirements and fill out the application.

Click here for online application.

EW Hates Stuff Too!!

Entertainment Weekly has a GREAT list of 25 things that annoy them!

I agree with so many of them! Here are a few:

3. When TV shows (we're looking at you, Lost) end at 10:02 p.m., 11:03 p.m., etc. Our DVRs don't know to wait up.

8. ''Upsizing'' sales tactics at the concession stand. If we wanted the jumbo deal, we would have asked for it.

16. The word 'pitchy'.

21. People outrunning fireballs. (photo)

Two Dreamgirls Lead the Pack of Winners at BET Awards

From The Hollywood Reporter:

"Dreamgirls" co-stars Beyonce and Jennifer Hudson were the big winners Tuesday night at the BET Awards '07, which were handed out at the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles.

The singer-actresses each took home two awards. Beyonce was named best female R&B artist and won for video of the year for "Irreplaceable," directed by Anthony Mandler, while Hudson won best new artist and best female actress.

Forest Whitaker was named best male actor during the ceremony, hosted for the third time by actress-comedian Mo'Nique.

Elsewhere in the music categories, Ne-Yo took home the award for best male R&B artist, while Gnarls Barkley won for best group. T.I. was a repeat winner this year with another nod as best hip-hop artist, while Kirk Franklin also repeated his win as best gospel artist.

Winning the award for best song collaboration was "Runaway Love," by Ludacris featuring Mary J. Blige.


The "BET J Cool Like That" award went to R&B singer Gerald Levert, who died in November.

Basketball star LeBron James was again named male athlete of the year, while tennis pro Serena Williams walked away with the award for female athlete of the year.

Diana Ross was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award during the ceremony, while Don Cheadle was presented with the Humanitarian Award for his efforts to raise awareness about the genocide in Darfur.

BET Networks also paid tribute to James Brown, who died in December, and Levert with performances by Bootsy Collins, Public Enemy (Chuck D, Flavor Flav, Prof. Griffin and DJ Lord), Gladys Knight and Yolanda Adams.

EW's Top TV Stars!

Yesterday we showed EW's list of their favorite Movie Stars!

Today they posted the top TV Stars they are crazy for!

The list includes our friend Melora Hardin (read her TwoCents) as well as some other favorites such as the Deadliest Catch guys, Katee Sackhoff, and Rex Lee (plays "Lloyd" on Entourage).

Farewell...

...Nancy Benoit, WCW Manager

Nancy Benoit, and her son, were found dead Monday in their home in Georgia.

Autopsy results are expected today and sources within the case suggest a murder/suicide scenario with her husband, Chris Benoit the WWE Superstar, the man responsible.

Fatone Dances Over to Singing Bee

America's dancing dynamo and former *NSYNC star Joey Fatone ("Dancing with the Stars") hosts NBC's ultimate sing-along variety game show "The Singing Bee," which is set to premiere on Tuesday, July 10 (9:30-10 p.m. ET) following the 90-minute "Las Vegas Callbacks" episode of summer's #1 hit "America's Got Talent" (8-9:30 p.m. ET).

The announcement was made today by Craig Plestis, Executive Vice President, Alternative Programming, Development and Specials, NBC Entertainment.

"This fun-filled family show is going to have viewers singing along with their TV sets," said Plestis. "Coupled with 'America's Got Talent,' we've got two great hours of TV that America can fall in love with every Tuesday night."

Added Plestis, "We are also thrilled to have Joey on board to host. He brings an added burst of energy and a legion of fans with his musical talent and infectious personality."

In "The Singing Bee," contestants will be challenged to accurately sing the lyrics to the most popular songs of all time in a variety of karaoke-style competitions. Each episode will begin with an audience-wide sing-along where eight lucky contestants will be chosen to compete in a series of fun-filled singing games. In this exciting singing showdown, there's no middle ground for partially correct answers -- contestants must be perfect or they're out of the game. Family-friendly and conducive to playing (and singing) along at home, "The Singing Bee" inspires hilarious wrong answers and amazing performances by those rare contestants who somehow manage to get every word right.

In addition, all music on the show will be performed by house band "Ray Chew and the Buzz" with "The Singing Bee" dancers, "The Honeybees."

Fatone, former member of the musical sensation *NSYNC, is a multi-talented "triple threat" most recently dancing his way to second place on "Dancing with the Stars." He has also appeared in multiple Broadway musicals including "Rent" and "Little Shop of Horrors," and the feature films "My Big Fat Greek Wedding" and "The Cooler."

"The Singing Bee" is created and produced by Juma Entertainment, LLC and The Gurin Company. The executive producers are Phil Gurin (NBC's "Miss Universe" franchise) and Robert C. Horowitz ("Super Bowl's Greatest Commercials Top 40 Countdown").

Two Cents & Five Questions With...

...Kari Matchett, Actress

The second episode of "Heartland" airs tonight at 10pm EST on TNT. Last week we had 5 Questions with the star, Treat Williams, and this week we get 5 from his co-star, Kari Marchett!

Kari plays Kate Armstrong the ex-wife of Williams' Dr. Grant. She's an organ-donor coordinator for the local donation center.

Matchett is already a star in Canada, having won a Gemini award. She was voted one of the Top 5 Faces to watch in USA Today. This past season she was seen on "24" as Lisa Miller, Chief of Staff to the Vice President, and stars as Mary Tate on NBC's "Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip". She also stars opposite Peter Krause ("Sports Night", "Six Feet Under") in the indie drama "Civic Duty", which opened in the Tribeca Film Festival before its nationwide release. Last season, Matchett earned high critical praise for her remarkable work on ABC's "Invasion" as Dr. Mariel Underlay.

We were able to get Two Cents & Five Answers from Kari and here we go!

Q: What do you think makes "Heartland" great dramatic television?
Kari Matchett: I think people will fall in love with "Heartland" for the same reasons that I fell in love with the original script for the pilot. It's about life and death issues. It's about people receiving organs that will help them continue to live, and they are receiving these organs from people who have just died. It also deals with the complexities of the matters of spirit, heart and emotions.

Q: Tell us about your character, Kate Armstrong.
KM: I play an organ-donation coordinator on the show, and my ex husband is played by Treat Williams, who's a hot-shot surgeon - the best in the business. So not only is my character dealing with life and death issues of people dying and people living off the donated organs but with all the emotions of working with the man she once loved, married and has a child with. Every second is filled with something new and interesting and has a wealth of history because of the fact that the two main characters were once married. It just lays in all the details and complexities and mixed emotions and really mirrors life in so many ways.

Q: Why is Dr. Grant so focused when it comes to work and such a mess in the rest of his life?
KM: David Hollander has created these incredible chracters that have truth to them. Nathaniel's truth is that we're born really good at some things, and we really suck at others. Nate was born to do what he does. He's good at it, he loved it, and he's passionate about it, and yet he's a mess when it comes to relationships. So although things are really lined up and clear and crystal clean in some areas of his life, which is his brilliant work, he's really not brilliant with his relationships, even though he tries and tries again to succeed.

Q: Why are flawed character that much more interesting to watch?
KM: Who wants to watch somebody perfect on TV? I think that television is a great representation of the truth and of who we are. Great television always reflects the truth, and people are drawn to it because they see themselves and hopefully understand themselves better. There is no one person on this Earth who is perfect, and so I think the clearer characters on television or on film, the clearer their flaws are drawn and the more complex and interesting the characters are.

Q: How does Kate convince people to turn their tragedies into good for somebody else?
KM: The difficulty of what Kate does is trying to appeal to families who have just gone through terrible tragedies by appealing to their need to help others. She has to ask the impossible question, which is donate your loved one's heart to continue to let someone else, who you don't know, live. One of the most interesting things about playing this character is that I don't think she always knows how she is going to achieve that. It's not an easy job, and I don't think she ever really knows how she's going to deal with it. But she loves people, and she tries to connect with them and make it work.

Big thanks to Kari Matchett for answering these questions! Be sure to check out her performance tonight in the second episode of "Heartland" on TNT!

The Office Season 3 DVD

TVShowsonDVD.com is a great website if you're looking for TV shows on DVD.

They list all kinds of information!

For Office Season Three, they just released a disc by disc count of what is going to be on the DVDs. Lots of extra nifty gifties for us folks!

Shia Alert!

Get used to this, with Transformers and Indiana Jones 4 hitting us from all angles!

TwoCents favorite, Shia LaBeouf, heads a new EW list!

EW is Spotlighting 100 things they love about movies and Shia is the first face we see on their "Ultimate Must Have List".

Other names include some more TwoCents favorites: Parker Posey, Alan Rickman and Steve Zahn.

Vote for Richard Gonzales!

Friend of TheTwoCents, Richard Gonzales (read his TwoCents about working on "The Office"), has had his short film continue on in the Fame Cast competition!

HE NOW COMPETES FOR THE TOP 10 and $10,000!!
Please register & VOTE
HE NEEDS OUR HELP MORE THAN EVER!!

VOTE HERE

scroll to find NEW OLD CAPT and vote!

American Idol Auditions Set!

With auditions scheduled in seven cities across the nation, the phenomenal AMERICAN IDOL begins its search for the next singing superstar. Once again, talented singers will have an extraordinary opportunity to perform before millions of TV viewers and become household names, with one winning the American Idol title and a major recording contract.

The quest to become the next American Idol is about to start. Auditions for the seventh season of AMERICAN IDOL begin in San Diego , CA , on Monday, July 30, at Qualcomm Stadium.

Auditions will continue in the following cities:

Dallas , TX - Monday, Aug. 6 - Texas Stadium
Omaha , NE - Friday, Aug. 10 - Qwest Center
Atlanta , GA - Tuesday, Aug. 14 - TBA
Charleston , SC - Saturday, Aug. 18 - North Charleston Coliseum
Miami , FL - Wednesday, Aug. 22 - American Airlines Arena
Philadelphia , PA - Monday, Aug. 27 - Wachovia Center

Audition information for these cities will be announced shortly. Season Seven of AMERICAN IDOL premieres in January 2008 on FOX.

SAN DIEGO AUDITIONS
WHO: Men and women 16 to 28 years old on July 28, 2007 and eligible to work in the United States . Restrictions apply – please go to Americanidol.com for specifics.

WHEN: Monday, July 30
WHERE: Qualcomm Stadium
9449 Friars Road
San Diego, CA 92108

LINEUP: Wristbands will be given out from Saturday, July 28 (starting time TBA), until 8:00 AM on Monday, July 30. Auditioners will not be permitted to camp out; therefore, once they obtain their wristbands, they will be asked to return to Qualcomm Stadium on Monday, July 30. Additional information is available at www.Americanidol.com.

Audition information, including forms and requirements, is available at: www.Americanidol.com.

Jafar, Bambi and The Beast Won't be Returning...AGAIN!

Not in direct-to-DVD movies anyway!

In a GREAT move, Walt Disney Studios has announced they are going to stop making those direct-to-DVD sequels to their best selling original movies.

You know the ones. The Return of Jafar, Lion King 1 1/2, and Mulan 2 for example.

Disney decided to keep the QUALITY in their films and focus on the major releases of their new movies and Pixar films.

They have one more sequel in the works (based on Tinkerbell), and then they will be done.

Nice choice Disney, well played.

Farewell...

... Hank Medress, Musician

Ok, so maybe the the name doesn't ring a bell, but his voice sure would.

Medress was the lead singer of The Tokens, the band that brought us the hit "The Lion Sleeps Tonight".

Medress lost his fight with lung cancer at the age of 68.

Farewell...

... Rod Beck, Baseball

Rod Beck, known for his big mustache and even bigger intimdation factor on the mound was found dead at his home Saturday.

Beck had 286 career saves and was loved by all of baseball.

No cause of death is known at this time, he was 38 years old.

We Need YOUR Review!!

"Evan Almighty" with Steve Carell opened this weekend!

We want YOUR review!

If you went to see it, send us a quick review (including a letter grade) and we'll post it!

The Office Conference Room - Marathon #1

[Updated: 6/22 12:05pm]

It was a nifty little gifty for us last night as NBC showed up THREE episodes!

Casino Night (season 2), Branch Closing and The Merger.

Our panel of Office Fan Site Admins have again sent in their thoughts on these episodes, including full reviews of Casino Night, and their answers to our new All-Time Question!

This week we are looking for:
THE TOP 3 ALL-TIME Jim/Pam (JAM) Moments!

If you want to share your own TwoCents of this topic - head to the FORUMS and do so!

Be sure to check back throughout the day as we add more reviews to the list!

Everyone in the Conference Room - NOW!

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Name: KP
Office Site: TheTwoCents.com
Casino Night Review: This hour long end of Season 2 delivered on so many levels I could probably type forever. The cold open with Dwight in the tux his grandfather was buried in, Jim being able to move the coat rack and the wink Pam gives him. Michale having two dates but only after Pam would screen his corny comments first. Toby listing the reasons they didn't invite the BoyScouts including it being catered by Hooters! Kevin being a poker champ, and then losing to Phyllis. The kiss and slap from Dwangela. Creed stealing everything that wasn't locked down. The crazy impressed smirk on his face as Bob Vance gives away a mini fridge. Toby beating Michael in poker and loving it. Oh so many great moments. And then the flip that the writers gave us with Jim. He's talking with Jan about his transfer to Stamford and she tells him that he needs to tell someone. Jim finds Pam talking with Roy (who is leaving her there looking VERY cute). Jim has something to say, my mind was locked on it being about Stamford and then BAM! What did he say? Read my favorite quote below and you'll find out. My heart SOARED and then BROKE all within in 20 seconds. Then Pam is on the phone with Mom, you can make up what she's talking about. Does she love him too? They kiss! Roll credits. NOO!!! What a way to end the season keeping us ALL hooked all of last summer. The same way they did this year! A phenominal episode all around!
Favorite Moment: That very slight pause JUST before Jim says it. Pam just smiling and staring at him.
Favorite Quote: Jim: Yeah. Hey, can I talk to you about something?
Pam: About when you want to give me more of your money?
Jim: No, I...
Pam: Did you wanna do that now? We can go inside. I'm feeling kind of good tonight.
Jim: I was just... I'm in love with you.
Pam: What?
Jim: I'm really sorry if that's weird for you to hear, but I needed you to hear it. Probably not good timing, I know that. I just...
Pam: What are you doing? What do you expect me to say to that?
Jim: I just needed you to know. Once.
Pam: Well, I um... I... I can't.
Jim: Yeah.
Pam: You have no idea...
Jim: Don't do that.
Pam: ...what your friendship means to me.
Jim: Come on. I don't wanna do that. I wanna be more than that.
Pam: I can't. I'm really sorry if you misinterpreted things. It's probably my fault.
Jim: Not your fault. I'm sorry I misinterpreted our friendship.
Overall Episode Grade: A+

Branch Closing
Favorite Moment: Faxes from Future Dwight
Favorite Quote: Michael: It is an outrage, that's all. It's... hey're making a huge, huge mistake. Let's see Josh replace these people. Let's see Josh find another Stanley. You think Stanleys grow on trees? Well they don't. There is no Stanley tree. Do you think the world is crawling with Phyllises? Show me that farm. With Phyllises and Kevins sprouting up all over the place. Ripe for the plucking. Show me that farm.
Overall Episode Grade: B+

The Merger
Favorite Moment: Pam hugging Jim as he walks through the door.
Favorite Quote: Jim: Hi, I'm Jim. I'm new here.
Pam: Oh my god! It's really you!
Jim: Yeah, I was just doing a little joke there about how we'd never met...
Pam: I know. I don't care.
Overall Episode Grade: B+

ALL TIME QUESTION:
Top 3 Jim/Pam (JAM) Moments:
- Jim's confession on "Casino Night" / Jim asking Pam on a date on "The Job"
- The moment of silence on "Booze Cruise"
- Jim and Pam shopping for Kevin's get-well stuff on "Michael's Birthday"

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Name: Lauren
Office Site: Flonkerton
Casino Night Review: I feel like this episode has entered a mythical status in Office fandom because it always will be "The episode where Jim told Pam he loves her", so it's difficult to review. I sometimes forget how funny and entertaining this episode is before those last 4 minutes. Michael's not-so-secret hate of Toby is in full force, Jim and Pam pair up for a great prank on Dwight, Darryl can barely contain his laughter as he talks about teaching Michael phrases "from da hood", Ryan is reluctantly getting deeper and deeper with Kelly, and Michael ends up with two dates at the casino night. And, of course, this is the episode where Jim tells Pam he loves her. His confession is so simple and honest it makes such a beautiful and at the same time heartbreaking scene. It helps that John and Jenna's acting is pitch perfect; you can almost feel Jim's heart breaking when you look at his eyes, and at the same time you can see the panic on Pam's face as her world is being turned on it's ear. A year and many, many viewings later, the confession and the kiss still gives me goosebumps.
Favorite Moment: The Kiss
Favorite Quote: I have two.
1. Michael (to Toby): Why are you the way that you are? Honestly, every time I try to do something fun or exciting, you make it not... that way. I hate so much about the things that you choose to be.
2. Jim: I just needed you to know. Once.
Overall Episode Grade: A+

BRANCH CLOSING
Favorite Moment: Everyone's reaction when Jan announces the Scranton
branch is staying open.
Favorite Quote: Jim: I mean, I always knew that the [Scranton] branch would shut down someday. I just figured it would be because Michael sold the building for some magic beans.
Overall Episode Grade: A

THE MERGER
Favorite Moment: Jim and Pam seeing each other again (you know, before it all goes to pot)
Favorite Quote: Andy: Hello.
Michael: Ah! You must be Andy Bernard. Aloha and welcome!
Andy: And you must be Michael Scott. Aloha and... hello.
Michael: A-ha-ha-ho. Very good! Welcome to our little kingdom. Ah, we
have a bag of nifty gifties for you.
Andy: Michael, thank you for welcoming me to your little kingdom, Mike.
Michael: Oh.
Andy: Nifty!
Michael: They are nifty! They're nifty gifties.
Overall Episode Grade: A-

ALL TIME QUESTION:
Top 3 Jim/Pam (JAM) Moments:
3. Pam falls asleep on Jim's shoulder in "Diversity Day"
2. The 27 seconds of silence in "Booze Cruise"
1. (tie) The Casino Night Kiss AND Jim asking Pam out in "The Job"

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Name: Fancy New Beesly
Office Site: Fancy New Beesly on MySpace
Casino Night Review: I watched this episode when it aired with my best friend & just remember being really proud of Steve Carell for writing something SO great. It was the perfect season finale...in fact, if it had ended slightly differently it would have been a perfect SERIES finale! Every single actor got a great part in it & realizing that Creed was a much bigger oddball than we'd all realized was too fun. Of course the end scene when Jim confesses his love to Pam was totally unexpected & I remember feeling like he was saying it to me because it was SO realistic! I also remember audibly calling Pam a "bitch" repeatedly after she told him that they were just friends. HAhaahhahah
Favorite Moment: Jim kissing Pam.
Favorite Quote: "Why are you the way that you are? Seriously. Every time I try to do anything fun you make it...not that way. I hate so much about the things that you choose to be."-Michael to Toby
Overall Episode Grade: A

BRANCH CLOSING
Favorite Moment: the cold open with Jim's prank on Dwight...faxing him faxes from Future Dwight...
Favorite Quote: Michael Scott: It is an outrage, that's all. They're making a huge, huge mistake. Let's see Josh replace these people. Let's see Josh find another Stanley. You think Stanleys grow on trees? Well they don't. There is no Stanley tree. Do you think the world is crawling with Phyllises? Show me that farm. With Phyllises and Kevins sprouting up all over the place. Ripe for the plucking. [long pause] Show me that farm.
Overall Episode Grade: A

THE MERGER
Favorite Moment: Pam running up to Jim & hugging him when she first sees him.
Favorite Quote: Dwight Schrute: The Japanese camp guards of World War Two always chose one man to kill whenever a batch of new prisoners arrived. I always wondered how they chose the man who was to die. I think I would have been good at choosing the person.
Overall Episode Grade: C

ALL TIME QUESTION:
Top 3 Jim/Pam (JAM) Moments:
- making up diseases together in the Health Care episode
- the 45 seconds of silence on the Booze Cruise
- Jim confessing his love to Pam

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Name: Jade 6_TOC
Office Site: theofficechat.com
Casino Night Review: Ahh...Casino Night: the season two finale. It was a great episode packed with fantastic quotes from Michael, Darryl, Dwight, Jim, Creed, and Toby. Jim's cold open prank concerning his ability to move things with telepathy worked amazingly well on Dwight, even by Dwight's standards. His reaction was PRICELESS..."Oh my God".
Michael announces to the office employees that the person with the most chips at the end will get to donate 500 dollars to a charity of their choice. This leads to one of the funniest and memorable group discussions ever. Michael says he wants to donate the 500 dollars to Afganistanis with AIDS, and when Jim joking says that they are called "Afganistanannies" Michael says that there is nothing funny about AIDS. Funny, I don't remember Jim mentioning a thing about AIDS.
It’s not going to happen Dwight, stop trying to move the bobble head.
What a fun time Pam and Jim had looking through the wedding band videos. We finally get to see Scrantonicity and Kevin shows us his stuff! I'd hire him, alongside that photoghrapher in "Conflict Resolution", that would be one slammin' wedding.
Once the Casino charity actually starts, Dwight tries to help Michael juggle his two queens, but fails miserably. Jan and Carol , a.k.a. "Lan Jevinson" and "Codename: Remax" meet and Michael explains that he had already asked Carol. Jan pretends she's OK with it, but regrets ever getting together with Michael. Does she even know what she wants?
Towards the end of Casino Night, it seemed as if Michael had a good time with Carol, Pam enjoyed winning money from Jim, Creed won a mini-fridge from Vance Refrigeration because he stole the most chips, Phyllis and Bob were happy they won the all-in battle with Kevin, Angela was Dwight's good luck charm at the tables, Ryan is his usual miserable self ordering weird cherry drinks for Kelly, and Roy made himself scarce by leaving early. This leaves Jim and Jan, who are both unhappy and down. There's even a moment when we thought the two of them would get together and comfort each other. That didn't take, Jan leaves the Casino very fustrated.
Back to Pam and Jim! They meet up outside the warehouse, Jim catches Pam off guard by blurting out that he's in love with her. Pam lets him down saying their friendship means a lot to her. Jim says he wants to be more than friends, but Pam didn't cave in, not even when Jim teared up. She calls her mother from her desk at the office, and Jim soon follows her. Pam hangs up while Jim slowly approaches her, he embraces her then kisses her, she kisses back and places her hands on his head. They break apart and the episode along with the season ends there. Many thoughts go through our head, did it finally happen? Are they really together now? Will Pam leave Roy for Jim? Did she just admit to her mother that she thinks she loves Jim? Unfortunately for us viewers we had to wait many months to find those things out.
Favorite Moment: The conversations they have while Michael is sitting on Pam's desk, including the Afghanistanannies conversation and Toby's explanation and Michaels response to why the Boy Scouts will not be there
Favorite Quote: "I taught Mike some phrases to help with his interracial conversations, stuff like" fleece it out", "going mach 5", "dinkin' flicka"....you know, things us Negroes say"
Overall Episode Grade: A+

BRANCH CLOSING
Favorite Moment: Dwight reads Jim's fax from "future Dwight", then knocks the cup of coffee out of Stanley 's hand
Favorite Quote: "Oh really, what role is that? King of the stupid universe?" - Michael Scott
Overall Episode Grade: B+

THE MERGER
Favorite Moment: Dwight and Andy fighting over the cars they drive.
Favorite Quote: Dwight replies, " Do you mean, from you, to me? Cause that's how it works" after Andy says "Anything new to report?"
Overall Episode Grade: B

ALL TIME QUESTION:
Top 3 Jim/Pam (JAM) Moments:
- Pam falls asleep on Jims shoulder in Diversity Day.
- Jim tells Pam he's in love with her in Casino Night.
- Pam and Jim on the Booze Cruise, standing in silence on deck, in the cold.

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Name: Elyse Moretti
Office Site: Life in the Office
Casino Night Review: Oh, man. The season finale of the year, or maybe even the decade, for sure. Including drama series as well. This was definitely one of the defining episodes of the show for me--the night I watched it, I realized how completely invested in these characters and their lives. Furthermore, it's HILARIOUS, and you can watch it over and over again and find new, funny things to laugh at.
Favorite Moment: Jim's speech
Favorite Quote: See above
Overall Episode Grade: A++

BRANCH CLOSING
Favorite Moment: Dwight receives faxes from Jim--er, FROM THE FUTURE!
Favorite Quote: Michael: It is an outrage, that's all. It's... hey're making a huge, huge mistake. Let's see Josh replace these people. Let's see Josh find another Stanley. You think Stanleys grow on trees? Well they don't. There is no Stanley tree. Do you think the world is crawling with Phyllises? Show me that farm. With Phyllises and Kevins sprouting up all over the place. Ripe for the plucking. Show me that farm.
Overall Episode Grade: A -

THE MERGER
Favorite Moment: Jim & Pam see each other for the first time!
Favorite Quote: entire Lazy Scranton rap
Overall Episode Grade: B+

ALL TIME QUESTION:
Top 3 Jim/Pam (JAM) Moments:
How can I answer this question?! Ahhhhhhh...there are WAY TOO MANY! Here are just a few of my top JAM moments, in no particular order:
- The celebratory hug and kiss at the Dundies
- Right after the end of jinx, when they are smiling at each other and Jim says "Hey"
- The hand-holding/withdrawing in Casino Night/Gay Witch Hunt. HEARTBREAKING!

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New Stars Added to Hollywood Walk of Fame

E! has the list of people who will get their own stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2008.

The music category will see stars for George Harrison, Christina Aguilera, Ricky Martin, Brooks & Dunn, and The Red Hot Chili Peppers.

Movie Stars getting stars are Cate Blanchett, Tim Robbins, Angela Bassett, Stan Lee and the collective "Munchkins" from "The Wizard of Oz". A family of make-up artists also will be added.

TV stars will have the names of Susan St. James, Howie Mandell, Bill Geist (CBS News), Kate Linder ("Young & the Restless"), Vince McMahon (WWE), Sherwood Schwartz ("Brady Bunch", "Gilligan's Island" creator) and the late Brian Keith.

Stephen Schwartz, the man behind "Wicked", "Pippin" and "Godspell" on Broadway will get a star too.

Leave the Ghost Light On

Why?

Because the post-Tony closings on Broadway have begun. According to the Yahoo! a number of shows will be closing in the coming weeks.

"Pirate Queen" closes this weekend. "Talk Radio" and "LoveMusik" also both end Sunday.

"Radio Golf" and the revival of "Company" both close on July 1.

July 8th says goodbye to "Inherit the Wind" while we turn the A/C on "110 in the Shade" as it closes on July 29th the same day we say goodbye to "Beauty and the Beast" after 13 years.

If you get to Broadway before the end of August you'll be able to catch "Frost/Nixon", "The Year of Magical Thinking" or "Deuce" before they close that month.

Indy is Back!

Ok, so, I didn't get called to be an extra on Indiana Jones 4. Oh well, these things happen!

HOWEVER! On the Indiana Jones official page they just posted this picture with the following blurb. Take notice to who they give the photo credit to!

The Man With The Hat is Back
June 21, 2007

For the first time since 1989, Harrison Ford dons the familiar costume on Thursday, June 21, 2007, as the upcoming Indiana Jones adventure begins production under the direction of Steven Spielberg. The new Indiana Jones movie is set in the 1950s and stars Shia LaBeouf, Cate Blanchett, John Hurt, Ray Winstone and Jim Broadbent. The Lucasfilm Ltd. production will be released by Paramount Pictures worldwide on May 22, 2008.
Photo by Steven Spielberg.