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Most Talked About USA Today Stories

Propaganda firm owner ran smear campaign against USA TODAY journalists

usatoday.com — The online "misinformation campaign," first reported last month, has raised questions about whether the Pentagon or its contractors had turned its propaganda operations against U.S. citizens. But Camille Chidiac, the minority owner of Leonie Industries and its former president, said he was responsible for the online activity and was operating independent of the company or the Pentagon.
RT @rlocker12: Propaganda firm owner ran smear campaign against USA TODAY journalists – http://t.co/YhICSmcL http://t.co/tWlDdSCV
Show 30 more tweets from Julia Barton, Ari Melber, Jared Keller, Aki Soga, Michael Roston, Dion Nissenbaum, Christophe Vogt, Liz Szabo, Mark Colvin, Gregory Korte and others...

Space station captures SpaceX Dragon capsule

usatoday.com — CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - A privately bankrolled spacecraft is getting ever closer to the International Space Station for a historic docking Friday. The SpaceX Dragon capsule contains a half-ton of supplies. The station's crew will use a robot arm to snare the Dragon.

Mitt Romney declining to disclose names of campaign bundlers

usatoday.com — Romney is not required by law to disclose the identities of his fundraisers with the exception of those who work as federal lobbyists. Releasing the names of bundlers, however, has been standard in presidential campaigns for more than a decade. Republican George W.

7-year-old boy's suicide shocks Detroit community

usatoday.com — The girl alerted her mother and called 911. The mother and a neighbor forced their way into the room, took the boy down, and called 911, too. The 7-year-old, whom the Free Press is not naming, had been depressed about being bullied by other kids at school and in his neighborhood, and about his parents' recent separation, the boy's mother told police, according to the report.
How is this even possible? RT @mcbennett6: MT @KimPainter Suicide of 7-year-old boy: http://t.co/imal8zNp Bullying may have been a factor.
Detroit shocked by suicide of 7-year-old boy: http://t.co/MoAmSEdi Bullying may have been a factor. Mom knew he was depressed

Where are you most likely to get a speeding ticket?

travel.usatoday.com — Your odds of getting a traffic ticket are greatest in Nevada, if the analysis of a motorists' rights group is on the money. The National Motorists Association has issued its second tally of states in which motorists are most likely to catch the spirit-deflating sight of flashing red lights in their rearview.
Where are you most likely to get a speeding ticket? Nevada - #1 http://t.co/8dF9VVDf
Fellow Nevadans, we're No. 1! MT @pmmichalski: Where are you most likely to get a speeding ticket? http://t.co/RXl39sg4 #travel

Brad Keselowski hopes to deliver double for Penske

usatoday.com — It was Penske's address. When Keselowski googled the directions on his phone, it led him to a road he often traveled in his home state of Michigan past nondescript buildings. Penske's offices were in one of those buildings; Keselowski had never known how close he had come to Penske years before.
#NASCAR … My USA Today story: Brad Keselowski hopes he can help Roger Penske win the double Sunday … http://t.co/gPhzhykt
Today's USAT via @dustinlong: Roger Penske seeking to do the "double" as an #indycar and #nascar team owner Sunday http://t.co/WGuazD8B

Investors still fuming over Facebook IPO fumbling

usatoday.com — By tumbling from their initial offering price - rather than skyrocketing, as many hoped - the current value of Facebook's shares has triggered a litany of regulatory probes and lawsuits in response to investor ire. Investors who piled into the much-anticipated IPO and held on have suffered significant losses.
A week after the Facebook IPO -- find out how investors are feeling: http://t.co/vkmJcOBW $fb

The week in weather

mediagallery.usatoday.com — A woman looks out to sea as she enjoys the sunny weather on Friday in Bournemouth, England. Temperatures in parts of the U.K. reached a balmy 80 degrees on Friday.

What's the best beach in America?

travel.usatoday.com — If you believe the hotly anticipated annual rankings compiled by Florida International University professor and coastal expert Stephen P. Leatherman - a.k.a. "Dr. Beach" - it's San Diego's Coronado Beach. The 300-yard-wide, 1.5-mile-long stretch of silvery sand fronts the red-roofed Hotel del Coronado, a National Historic Landmark where Marilyn Monroe cavorted in the 1959 classic Some Like it Hot.

Motorists' summer outlook: Relief at gas pump

usatoday.com — After topping out at $3.92 in early April, gasoline now averages $3.68 a gallon. Weak demand, slumping crude oil prices and ample inventories could push prices to $3.55 by mid-June, says Brian Milne, analyst at Telvent DTN.
Wasn't it like 3 weeks ago we were talking about tapping emergency oil supplies? Now it's "Relief at gas pump" http://t.co/d0tv29Ek

Gunman holding hostages at Indiana real estate office

content.usatoday.com — Police are talking with a gunman who has been holding an unknown number of hostages at a real estate office in Valparaiso, Ind., according to news reports. Officers exchanged fire with the gunman when they arrived at the at Prudential Executive Group Real Estate office, but there is no confirmation of injuries.

The week in tech: 5 must-know things

usatoday.com — Facebook capped a tumultuous week of stock trading by announcing a new iPhone app, "Facebook Camera." The app, which is strikingly similar to the recently purchased Instagram, allows users to take, edit and upload photos directly to Facebook. You can also comment and like photos from the app.

Book cites Obama's high school marijuana use

content.usatoday.com — Well, Mitt Romney had to endure stories about alleged high school bullying -- now President Obama faces revived stories about his high school marijuana use. In his forthcoming book Barack Obama: The Story, author David Maraniss details the activities of young Barry Obama and his high school friends.
If this bit about Obama's pot-smoking is true, a whole generation of kids just got a great idea: http://t.co/2Dcw8keI

Video: Mike Tyson speaks about Jon Jones' fall from grace

content.usatoday.com — has stood in the shoes of Jon Jones. And that is not necessarily a good thing. But it could be a helpful thing. Jones, the UFC Light Heavyweight Champion, was arrested last weekend for DUI after crashing his Bentley. Paul Heyman of the Heyman Report got Tyson on camera to talk about a fall from grace.
Tyson speaks about Jon Jones' fall from grace - Mike Tyson has stood in the shoes of Jon Jones. And that is not nece... http://t.co/Xtu5k98b

Denver, Phoenix may be last hotspot for college recruiting

usatoday.com — These days, there are so many Coloradoans on campus that they're forming their own club. The class entering this fall will include 24 Colorado residents, following two years of 14 each in the freshman class.
RT @USATODAY: Denver, Phoenix may be last hotspot for college recruiting http://t.co/XyeXKHzt

Where are you most likely to get a speeding ticket?

travel.usatoday.com — Your odds of getting a traffic ticket are greatest in Nevada, if the analysis of a motorists' rights group is on the money. The National Motorists Association has issued its second tally of states in which motorists are most likely to catch the spirit-deflating sight of flashing red lights in their rearview.
Most likely state to get speeding ticket? Nevada. Likeliest city? Atlanta http://t.co/bO9AATpZ

Book cites Obama's high school marijuana use

content.usatoday.com — Well, Mitt Romney had to endure stories about alleged high school bullying -- now President Obama faces revived stories about his high school marijuana use. In his forthcoming book Barack Obama: The Story, author David Maraniss details the activities of young Barry Obama and his high school friends.

On Politics: Covering the U.S. Congress, Governors, and the 2012 Election

content.usatoday.com — Read the latest news from Capitol Hill, the 2012 elections, and state governors.
Wag of the finger to Sen. Tom Coburn (R-Okla.) from Senate Ethics Committee http://t.co/zOIQgcwh

Jeff Van Gundy has Stan Van Gundy's back

content.usatoday.com — Jeff Van Gundy is a basketball analyst and a family man. The two came together recently. Van Gundy, interviewed by Stephen A. Smith on 98.7 ESPN New York, was asked about his brother Stan being fired by Orlando and the role of CEO Alex Martins in the firing.

Some Facebook investors may get refunds

usatoday.com — NEW YORK - Morgan Stanley, the lead investment bank in Facebook's troubled initial public offering, will compensate retail investors who overpaid when they bought Facebook's stock in Friday's IPO, according to a source familiar with the matter. The person said the firm is reviewing orders its retail clients placed for Facebook stock, and will make price adjustments if the clients paid too much.

Tell us: Would Jerry Sloan be a good fit for Bobcats?

content.usatoday.com — Jerry Sloan is old school. The Charlotte Bobcats got taken to school. Are we looking at a perfect marriage? The 70-old Sloan, 1221-803 23 years with Chicago and Utah, is supposed to interview with the Bobcats today. That would be the team that finished 7-59 last year.
Would Sloan be a good fit for Bobcats? - Jerry Sloan is old school. The Charlotte Bobcats got taken to school. Does ... http://t.co/vMX7O4Xh

Airbus pitches wide seats as U.S. fliers get bigger

travel.usatoday.com — U.S. airlines seem to be on the a constant lookout for new add-on fees. Carry-on bags, reserved seats, help from an agent by phone - those are just some of the things that come with a charge at many U.S. carriers these days.

63% of travelers read print newspapers during hotel stays

travel.usatoday.com — A full 63% of travelers read print newspapers during their hotel stay, according to USA TODAY's just-released study of traveler habits. Additionally, 50% of frequent business travelers and 45% of frequent leisure travelers reading print newspapers more while traveling than at home. Do these stats surprise you?

Apple CEO Cook gives up $75M in stock dividends

usatoday.com — Like other company executives holding restricted shares, Cook was eligible to receive substantial payouts known as dividend equivalents after the company announced in March that it would begin paying a $2.65 quarterly dividend to all shareholders in the fiscal fourth quarter.

Rick Hendrick riding a NASCAR wave into the Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte

usatoday.com — So he can't wait to do it again - in an even more outrageous fashion. "If (Dale Earnhardt) Junior wins Talladega, I will get on the roof," Hendrick said. "I will let them tie me to it. I probably will spend the night down there and then run for governor."
On http://t.co/2oprggWx: Happy days and wild rides are here again for Rick Hendrick in the #nascar Sprint Cup Series http://t.co/lYz8G8Wk

- USATODAY.com

usatoday.com — She began going to tanning salons before her freshman prom. She returned to the tanning salon before dances, homecoming and the summer beach season. "I knew about the risk but I was in denial," Hessel says.
Melanoma at 19? Young woman, a former tanning salon fan, was one of many speaking out. It's #DontFryDay, http://t.co/C46GpSM9 #skincancer

Obama: Romney offers 'cowpie of distortion'

content.usatoday.com — President Obama offered an earthy rural metaphor to blast Mitt Romney last night in Iowa, saying the Republican candidate offered voters "a cowpie of distortion" in a recent speech. "I don't know whose record he twisted the most," Obama said. "Mine or his."
Obama: Romney Offers "Cowpie of Distortion" http://t.co/IjT9YoKC That's Nico's worst song by far.

Rasmussen: Scotty McCreery favored to win 'American Idol'

content.usatoday.com — Scotty McCreery's the heavy favorite to win American Idol this week, but there's still room for Lauren Alaina to make a move, according to a Rasmussen Reports national telephone survey. Rasmussen surveyed 668 American Idol viewers, nearly half of whom think the 17-year-old from North Carolina will take the title Wednesday.

Ask Matt: Do cheap stocks make more money for investors?

usatoday.com — A: Cheap and good don't always go together. Wine and suits are two classic examples of that. Investors are on a constant lookout for "cheap" stocks, but do they actually make more money for investors? What's a cheap stock, anyway? There's plenty of academic research on this.
Investors love "cheap" stocks, but do they actually perform better than high flyers? http://t.co/LiWkJXVr $x

Facebook: A lesson in IPO investing

usatoday.com — Amid the frenzy for shares of the No. 1 social-networking company, many investors forgot a key of investing in initial public offerings: They're risky and can go down. More than 40% of the IPOs done in the past 12 months are below their IPO prices, serving a big reminder of why such deals are inappropriate for investors who don't understand the risks.
Many Facebook investors forgot something about IPOs ... sometimes they go down: http://t.co/DsZnmdr4 $fb

UFC, MMA wrestling with testosterone issues

usatoday.com — Mixed martial artists are routinely tested for testosterone and drugs, usually by state commissions. Some in the anti-doping world wonder whether state commissions can do enough. "They're there to grant licenses to fight in big bouts that raise a lot of money in their states," said Travis Tygart, CEO of the U.S.
Read this story about testosterone in MMA! Read it now! http://t.co/0kLwMZSw

63% of travelers read print newspapers during hotel stays

travel.usatoday.com — A full 63% of travelers read print newspapers during their hotel stay, according to USA TODAY's just-released study of traveler habits. Additionally, 50% of frequent business travelers and 45% of frequent leisure travelers reading print newspapers more while traveling than at home. Do these stats surprise you?

Woman finds stolen iPhone using suspected thief's photos

content.usatoday.com — A woman whose iPhone was stolen during a Disney cruise trip tracked down the alleged thief after he inadvertently sent her photos he had taken on it, The Telegraph reports. Apparently, the suspect didn't realize that the pictures he was taking with the phone would automatically upload to the owner's iCloud account, which allows data to be stored remotely on a computer.
Woman finds stolen iPhone using suspected thief's photos http://t.co/ILhPvmjM via @USATODAY

Healthy Perspective

yourlife.usatoday.com — Your Friday morning health roundup: Italian doctors saved the life of a 16-month-old boy by giving him the world's smallest artificial heart. The baby survived on the tiny titanium pump for 13 days, while awaiting a transplant performed last month, doctors announced. The infant version of the device, designed by U.S.
#Health roundup: Baby gets tiny artificial heart; anti-GMO forces wage food label war; condoms go to prom: http://t.co/X7JXODgx

Jeremy Lin about to win trademark war

content.usatoday.com — created Linsanity. Now he is close to owning it. The New York Knicks guard had been in competition to patent the slogan but the battle seems to be over. Lin's lawyer Pamela Deese tells the Huffington Post that The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office rejected all other applications.
Jeremy Lin about to win trademark war - Jeremy Lin created Linsanity. Now he is close to owning it. http://t.co/xhwshgHP

Honest Tea co-founder Seth Goldman talks about his beverages

usatoday.com — Seth Goldman, co-founder of the beverage company Honest Tea, talks about customers' desire for quality ingredients.
Hearing their story never gets old. @HonestTea co-founder Seth Goldman talks about his beverages http://t.co/HsixoVXe

Live video: Dragon capsule to reach ISS

content.usatoday.com — The unmanned SpaceX Dragon capsule is poised to make its arrival at the International Space Station in moments. Partner Florida Today has complete coverage of the event, including a live video above of Dragon's meeting with ISS.
RT @USATODAY: WATCH: SpaceX Dragon capsule is poised to arrive at the International Space Station in moments: http://t.co/lfK6ZidT

IndyCar looking for star power in Danica Patrick's absence

usatoday.com — The Penske Racing driver suspects the storyline might have been reversed a year earlier. "If it was Danica still driving the GoDaddy car, I wonder how it'd been received if I'd beaten her by 9 inches," Briscoe said with a laugh.
On http://t.co/2oprggWx: In the absence of Danica Patrick from Indy 500, #IndyCar seeks to refocus its star power http://t.co/QmJ6Vlqi

Danica Patrick puts Indy 500 in rearview mirror

usatoday.com — Since becoming the first woman to lead the Indianapolis 500 seven years ago, Patrick, 30, mushroomed into a household name and a coveted brand who has hawked national products from soft drinks to perfume lines to designer watches. The Sunday before Memorial Day always has brought out the best in Patrick.
Today's USAT 1C cover story: Absent track that built her, Danica Patrick recalibrates expectations in #nascar http://t.co/gNUizTGb #indycar

Richard Petty's Fords rule Charlotte in qualifying for Coca-Cola 600

usatoday.com — The Fords of Aric Almirola and Marcos Ambrose swept the front row for Richard Petty Motorsports at the 1.5-mile oval for Sunday's race, which is the longest of the year in NASCAR's premier series. With his first career pole in the Sprint Cup Series, Almirola became the first No.
Today's USAT: Coca-Cola 600 qualifying is fit for "The King" as Richard Petty Motorsports sweeps the front row http://t.co/oS4HDdRQ #nascar

How Sarah Fisher, llamas and an oilman tie into Indy 500

usatoday.com — You might expect him to ask for a deposit so he can secure the transaction. Or that he's the prince of an oil-rich country in the Middle East. But you probably wouldn't send a reply. This is the story of Sarah Fisher and a guy named Wink, who really did wire a massive amount of money and really did save her race team.
Today's USAT via @jeffolson77: How a Kansas oilman w/a love of llamas helped keep @sarahfisher at the Indy 500 http://t.co/oUk80dCX #indycar

Video: Kobe-Gotye parody chides superstar for what was

content.usatoday.com — Maybe when he wins the sixth ring, Kobe Bryant will be safe from backlash. Or maybe not. "The Kobe We Used to Know" takes the superstar to task for his shot selection in this past season. We don't know whether the parody of Gotye's "Somebody That I Used to Know" makes it more or less palatable for Bryant.
Video: Kobe parody chides superstar - Maybe when he wins the sixth ring, Kobe Bryant will be safe from backlash. http://t.co/pSQTmmy1

Dwyane Wade leads Heat past Pacers, into Eastern Conference finals

usatoday.com — Today, he's the main reason the Miami Heat are headed to the Eastern Conference finals for the second season in a row. Wade scored 41 points, including 26 in the first half, as the Heat eliminated the Pacers with a 105-93 victory in Game 6 of the Eastern Conference semifinals.
Less than a week ago, Dwyane Wade was being run out of town. Today, not so much. Heat eliminate Pacers: http://t.co/yD1cj86L

Did Charlie Sheen buy Lawrence Taylor's Super Bowl ring?

content.usatoday.com — When you don't care about jewelry you give gifts to your son. When you give gifts to your son he sells them to Charlie Sheen. Don't give gifts to your son. Actually that is exactly what you should do. Some stories we just want to be true.
Did Charlie Sheen buy LT's Super Bowl ring? - When you don't care about jewelry you give gifts to your son. When you... http://t.co/AmHIr374

U.S. 'info ops' programs in Afghanistan, Iraq are dubious and costly

usatoday.com — From 2005 to 2009, such spending rose from $9 million to $580 million a year mostly in Iraq and Afghanistan, Pentagon and congressional records show. Last year, spending dropped to $202 million as the Iraq War wrapped up.
U.S. 'info ops' programs in Afghanistan, Iraq are dubious and costly – http://t.co/YhICSmcL http://t.co/epdMWECx #info ops original

Video: Snoop Dogg throws out first pitch

content.usatoday.com — Snoop Dogg threw a change-up but he threw a strike. The entertainer tossed out the first pitch last night for the Chicago White Sox. And while he often brings the heat, this time he settled for a floater. He did pick up a win as the White Sox defeated Minnesota 11-8.
Video: Snoop Dogg throws out first pitch - Snoop Dogg threw a change-up but he threw a strike. http://t.co/wB9CdtSe

Wayne Gretzky enjoys Los Angeles Kings' run to the Cup

content.usatoday.com — Winning eight consecutive road playoff games en route to the Stanley Cup Finals, the Los Angeles Kings have drawn the attention of Wayne Gretzky, the man who guided the franchise to its last Cup appearance back in 1993. The Great One told the LA Times he likes what he sees from the current squad.
Wayne Gretzky enjoys Kings' run to the Cup - Winning eight consecutive road playoff games en route to the Stanley Cu... http://t.co/vlGrr6wd

Some sites charge higher tolls to out-of-towners

usatoday.com — The E-ZPass electronic toll reading system used by 24 tolling agencies in 14 states in the Northeast and Midwest is able to differentiate where motorists bought their passes and apply varying prices. Motorists traveling the full length of the New Jersey Turnpike during off-peak hours, for example, pay $10.40 if they bought their E-ZPass from the turnpike's operators.

Prehistoric flutes date to 42,000 years ago

content.usatoday.com — Good news, flute fans. You have prehistoric company -- flutes go back at least 42,000 years, longer ago than previously reported, report archaeologists looking at the likely era of the first modern human occupation of Europe.
RT @dvergano: Stone age flutes even older than supposed ~ 42,000 years: http://t.co/C89VcC1f Q&A with study author #music #archeology
RT @dvergano: Stone age flutes even older than supposed ~ 42,000 years: http://t.co/C89VcC1f Q&A with study author #music #archeology
Stone age flutes even older than supposed ~ 42,000 years: http://t.co/C89VcC1f Q&A with study author #music #archeology

Yankees aren't for sale, but they'd draw nearly $4B

usatoday.com — Managing partner Hal Steinbrenner and Major League Baseball vigorously denied a (New York) Daily News report that the Steinbrenner family was intrigued by the $2.15 billion sale of the Los Angeles Dodgers and could be looking to sell the 27-time World Series champs. That said, it does raise the question: What is baseball's most storied franchise worth?
Yanks not for sale but would draw nearly $4B (Steinbrenner payed $8.8 million in 1973) http://t.co/MWY6sreq

Facebook unveils mobile Camera app

content.usatoday.com — Facebook, the dominant home for online photo sharing, is releasing a new camera app for the iPhone that will attempt to make the process for posting images to the social network easier. Facebook expects the app to go live by 4 p.m. ET.

N.J. man charged in disappearance of Etan Patz

content.usatoday.com — New York police are questioning a New Jersey man in connection with the disappearance of Etan Patz, the 6-year-old boy who made national news more than 30 years ago when he vanished as he walked to the school bus, NBC 4 New York reports today.

Dwyane Wade rocks hot pink pants before Game 6

content.usatoday.com — On a night when he went bezerk for 41 points in the Miami Heat's series-clinching win over the Indiana Pacers Thursday night, Dwyane Wade seemed to make even more of a statement off the court. A fashion statement, that is. And it looked as though he raided Russell Westbrook's closet.
Wade rocks hot pink pants before Game 6 - Heat guard Dwyane Wade committed a "flagrant fashion foul" by wearing hot ... http://t.co/51DbVwR8

Healthy Perspective

yourlife.usatoday.com — Brightly-colored little packets that combine laundry detergent with other cleaning agents are a new convenience for consumers -- and a new danger for kids. Nearly 250 people have called poison centers in a past couple of months after small children swallowed or bit into the packets, the Associated Press reports.

Real federal deficit dwarfs official tally

usatoday.com — Under those accounting practices, the government ran red ink last year equal to $42,054 per household - nearly four times the official number reported under unique rules set by Congress. A U.S. household's median income is $49,445, the Census reports.

Why IBM doesn't want employees talking to Siri

content.usatoday.com — It appears IBM is worried iPhone personal assistant Siri might have a big mouth. MIT's Technology Review has an interesting interview with IBM chief information officer Jeanette Horan, who discusses the challenges of the company's "bring your own device" policy.

'Men in Black' just as good the third time around

usatoday.com — Brolin, as Agent K at, er, 29, is wryly funny, as befitting his future craggy self. He channels Jones' mannerisms, nails his Texan drawl and even rather eerily resembles the actor, approximating the signature steely glance that seems to reach right through people.
The definition of damning with faint praise: "'Men in Black' just as good the third time around" http://t.co/kWHa6ZFU

Propaganda firm owner ran smear campaign against USA TODAY journalists

usatoday.com — The online "misinformation campaign," first reported last month, has raised questions about whether the Pentagon or its contractors had turned its propaganda operations against U.S. citizens. But Camille Chidiac, the minority owner of Leonie Industries and its former president, said he was responsible for the online activity and was operating independent of the company or the Pentagon.
RT @gregorykorte: Propaganda firm owner admits running "smear campaign" against @USATODAY journalists http://t.co/JbvWizxV
Propaganda firm owner admits running "smear campaign" against @USATODAY journalists http://t.co/fkfAWxca
Propaganda firm owner ran smear campaign against USA TODAY journalists http://t.co/fkfAWxca via @USATODAY

Resistance battles al-Qaeda-linked fighters in Yemen

usatoday.com — Between the mountain escarpment and the blue water haze on the distant horizon, al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula has made its home. It is here that the first victory on the northern front of the U.S.-backed war against al-Qaeda's most threatening offshoot is being celebrated. "We are the first ones to have beaten al-Qaeda.

N.J. man arrested in 1979 disappearance of Etan Patz

usatoday.com — Pedro Hernandez, 51, of Maple Shade, was charged with the slaying of Etan Patz, who vanished on his way to school in his lower Manhattan neighborhood in 1979, New York City Police Commissioner Raymond Kelly said Thursday night. Hernandez, who had worked as a store clerk at a bodega near Etan's home, confessed after hours of police questioning, Kelly said.
Such a heartbreaking case... N.J. man arrested in Etan Patz disappearance http://t.co/rJXSsr22

Report: Big East focused on BYU, Air Force for expansion

content.usatoday.com — The Big East has 13 teams committed to being in the league in 2015. According to the Philadelphia Inquirer , when the league expands to 14, Air Force and Brigham Young are the two contenders to be added. Air Force is currently in the Mountain West and would be nice fit with Navy, which is joining the league in 2015.

Tourist stabbing deaths give Atlantic City a black eye

travel.usatoday.com — The killing of two Canadian tourists during an apparent botched robbery Monday does harm to Atlantic City's efforts to gussy up its image. The women, one 80 and the other 47, were stabbed with a butcher knife at the corner of Pacific and Michigan avenues near the Boardwalk.

Would-be vacationers too often saddled with work to play

travel.usatoday.com — It's not just higher airfares and escalating hotel fees that will cause some Americans to forgo a summer getaway. The nation's nose-to-the-grindstone culture - which only intensified during the Great Recession- has resulted in many Americans leaving vacation days on the table.

Near-normal hurricane season predicted

usatoday.com — A typical season, based on the years 1981-2010, sees six hurricanes. The Atlantic season runs from June 1 to November 30. This forecast from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) covers any storms that form in the Atlantic Ocean, the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico.

FCC chief backs tiered broadband prices

content.usatoday.com — The chairman of the Federal Communications Commission has weighed in on the hot topic of tiered broadband services. During the annual National Cable & Telecommunications Association show, Reuters reports Julius Genachowski voiced his support for broadband Internet plans that charge customers based on how often they use the service.

Jets teammates tease Tim Tebow: 'Lolo, Lolo'

content.usatoday.com — Lolo Jones and Tim Tebow? Jones opened up the door a wee bit with some humor Thursday when she Tweeted: Ask Tebow if he wants a glass of milk. If he says yes, ask him if he prefers chocolate.
Jets teammates tease Tim Tebow: 'Lolo, Lolo' - Lolo Jones responds to Twitter talk that linked her to Tim Tebow afte... http://t.co/1Rv3zBHS

Nevada wildfire crews race against winds

usatoday.com — No injuries were reported in the blaze in the Topaz Ranch Estates about 50 miles southeast of Lake Tahoe, though smoke has drifted hundreds of miles south to the Las Vegas area. Between 100 and 200 homes were under threat when the fire broke out Tuesday - possibly after a controlled burn on residential land rekindled in winds gusting up to 40 mph, authorities said.

Hurricane forecast: 15 named storms expected

usatoday.com — The government expects up to 15 named storms this season, but if an "El Nino" develops this year, fewer storms could form. (May 24)

Police chief defends search for son's stolen iPhone

content.usatoday.com — A California police chief is defending the use of 10 officers - some on overtime - to search for his teenage son's stolen iPhone. Berkeley Police Chief Michael Meehan says the department did not give his son preferential treatment when the officers, including three detectives and a sergeant, searched for the phone, which was taken from a school locker in January, The Oakland Tribune reports.
Police chief defends search by 10 officers for son's missing iPhone http://t.co/IZNEji9e

Elton John hospitalized with 'serious respiratory infection'

content.usatoday.com — Music superstar Elton John, 65, has been hospitalized in Los Angeles with a respiratory infection that has forced him to cancel three upcoming concerts, he announced this morning. According to his rep, he developed the "serious respiratory infection" over the weekend during his weekly performances of "The Million Dollar Piano" show at the Colosseum at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas.

'Cronkite' biographer Brinkley anchors the man in his moment

usatoday.com — As the author of the biography Cronkite (Harper, $34.99, on sale Tuesday), Brinkley has logged countless hours viewing such tapes. But he says he never tires of watching "the most trusted man in America," as Cronkite was crowned in a poll. On the screen, it's Nov. 22, 1963.
Brokaw says Cronkite "knew who he was," while "Dan Rather woke up every morning trying to decide who he'd be that day." http://t.co/qPw0u3Dz
RT @USATODAY: 'Cronkite' biographer Brinkley digs into 'the most trusted man in America': http://t.co/roCJRu7A More #Summerbooks: http:/ ...

Domestic giant Southwest sticks nose into international air

travel.usatoday.com — The airline is picking up AirTran's flights to Mexico and the Caribbean after buying its rival last year. It's getting a new reservations system to handle overseas bookings and is seeking to build an international terminal at Houston's Hobby Airport, where it says it could ultimately add 25 flights abroad a day.
Domestic giant Southwest sticks nose into international air http://t.co/NLpSmBKU via USA TODAY
RT @lawyair: Domestic giant Southwest sticks nose into international air - http://t.co/ompGE5oy http://t.co/CQpgwFPu

Stop prostate screening with PSA test? Not all doctors agree

usatoday.com — Many prostate cancer patients and their doctors were outraged after a government advisory panel recommended Monday that physicians stop using the PSA blood test to screen healthy men. In its statement, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force noted that the PSA has never been shown to reduce overall deaths, although treatments often make men impotent or incontinent.
Disturbing: Survey finds almost 1 in 5 doctors order PSA tests for patients w/o even discussing it w/ them, http://t.co/ix4Be4ky #prostate
Amazing survey: Half of docs agree w/ task force on PSA, but only 2% will follow their guidelines, http://t.co/ix4Be4ky #prostatecancer

Unbound river to surge through Grand Canyon

usatoday.com — The Colorado River, restrained in its flow through the Canyon since the 1960s, will be allowed to gush in semi-flood conditions again, beginning next year under an Interior Department plan to protect native fish and naturalize the river.

Top 10 best New York hotels: Setai Fifth Avenue No. 1

travel.usatoday.com — The understated Setai Fifth Avenue that has a Maserati as its house car grabs the No. 1 spot in a new Top 10 New York City hotels list. The ranking - specific for the month of May - comes from ReviewPro, a company that calculates hotels' scores by crunching data from the web.
Most-FB-recommended post via @usatoday's HotelCheck-In this week? New #Top10 NYC hotels list; 379 rec's. http://t.co/S20S8f3C @reviewpro
Show 3 more tweets from Barbara De Lollis, Barbara De Lollis, Barbara De Lollis

Senators seek review of inspector's investigation into drilling report

usatoday.com — Mary Kendall, the Interior Department's acting inspector general, told USA TODAY this week that she was present for meetings at which top Interior officials discussed a report on drilling safety following the Deepwater Horizon explosion, which killed 11 people and resulted in the largest oil spill in American history.

- USATODAY.com

usatoday.com — On sunny days, the climbing domes quickly got hotter than a frying pan. Kids scalded their hands, prompting park officials to install a tent over the dome in Union Square and to remove the domes in Brooklyn Bridge Park.
Still my favorite story on skin cancer prevention: More trees=Less Skin Cancer & Obesity? It's "Don't Fry Day," http://t.co/swvmThld
Still my favorite story on skin cancer prevention:Kids Need More Shade. More trees=Less Cancer? It's "Don't Fry Day," http://t.co/swvmThld

Is Tim Tebow already falling behind starter Mark Sanchez?

content.usatoday.com — If the race is actually on to nail down the New York Jets' starting quarterback job -- and the team insists there is no competition afoot -- starter Mark Sanchez seems to already be opening a gap on recently acquired backup Tim Tebow. Sanchez apparently looked very sharp during passing drills Thursday during team OTAs.

Hal Steinbrenner denies report he's selling Yankees

content.usatoday.com — One of the hardest things to imagine is the Yankees owned by someone else other than the Steinbrenners. But a report by Michael O'Keeffe and Bill Madden of the New York Daily News says that day might be coming.

Apps allow electric cars to charge at cheapest rates

content.usatoday.com — One the great, but not well known, features of electric cars is the degree to which they are taking full advantage of smartphones and connectivity. It's not just for show. Using smartphone apps, owners can make sure their car won't start recharging at home until an electric utilities rates drop for the night.
Yup, there's even an App for that... Apps allow electric cars to charge cheaply http://t.co/3xd6O1YV

Sales of existing homes increase in April

usatoday.com — In April, existing home sales were up 3.4% from March to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 4.6 million, the National Association of Realtors reported Tuesday. They rose 10% from a year ago. Sales were higher in all four regions of the U.S.

Warren Buffett says his firm likely to buy newspapers

usatoday.com — OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Warren Buffett says his company is likely to buy more newspapers in the next few years, and Berkshire Hathaway will not try to influence the editorial policies of any of them. Buffett wrote a memo this week to the editors and publishers of all of Berkshire's daily newspapers.

Video: Chad Ochocinco laments stolen Starbucks card

content.usatoday.com — Chad Ochocinco has again harnessed the power of social media for our collective entertainment ... while seeming to also rebound from a theft at his expense. The Cadillac Escalade belonging to the New England Patriots wideout was recently broken into, costing him his license, credit cards, iPod and a truly valuable possession -- his Starbucks gold card.

Summer Books Preview

usatoday.com — Whether you're planning to stuff your beach bag with paperbacks or hardcovers or you're figuring out how to prevent glare on your e-reader, USA TODAY's books staff scopes out the season's hottest new titles to help you decide.
#winning RT @mquirk: The 500 is USA Today's lead thriller pick in their Summer Books Preview! http://t.co/dRAbmGt6

Video: Chad Ochocinco laments stolen Starbucks card

content.usatoday.com — Chad Ochocinco has again harnessed the power of social media for our collective entertainment ... while seeming to also rebound from a theft at his expense. The Cadillac Escalade belonging to the New England Patriots wideout was recently broken into, costing him his license, credit cards, iPod and a truly valuable possession -- his Starbucks gold card.
RT @USATODAYsports: A thief broke into @ochocinco's car and took his Starbucks gold card, so he posted this video -- http://t.co/y4z0fttl

Disney Cruise Line investigates alleged theft of iPhone

travel.usatoday.com — This item was written by Johanna Jainchill, who covers the travel industry for Travel Weekly. Jainchill is serving as Guest Editor of The Cruise Log while USA TODAY Cruise Editor Gene Sloan is away. Disney Cruise Line said it has placed an employee on "administrative leave" while it investigates the alleged theft of a guest's iPhone.
#stevejobs reaching from beyond the grave! Stolen iPhone leads cruise line to culprit. The article is epic. Love it. http://t.co/p9JVDaZd

Would-be vacationers too often saddled with work to play

travel.usatoday.com — It's not just higher airfares and escalating hotel fees that will cause some Americans to forgo a summer getaway. The nation's nose-to-the-grindstone culture - which only intensified during the Great Recession- has resulted in many Americans leaving vacation days on the table.
Never. MT: @USATODAY: Do you use all your vacation time? Many Americans don't. Experts say our culture is to blame: http://t.co/26d37lCq

Propaganda firm owner ran smear campaign against USA TODAY journalists

usatoday.com — The online "misinformation campaign," first reported last month, has raised questions about whether the Pentagon or its contractors had turned its propaganda operations against U.S. citizens. But Camille Chidiac, the minority owner of Leonie Industries and its former president, said he was responsible for the online activity and was operating independent of the company or the Pentagon.
RT @fschouten: Propaganda firm owner ran smear campaign against USA TODAY journalists – http://t.co/OVY9dQNu http://t.co/wYlS2fij via @U ...

Prehistoric flutes date to 42,000 years ago

content.usatoday.com — Good news, flute fans. You have prehistoric company -- flutes go back at least 42,000 years, longer ago than previously reported, report archaeologists looking at the likely era of the first modern human occupation of Europe.
Reanalysis pushes age of early flutes back to 42K yrs ago, suggests modern humans entered Europe 45K y.a. http://t.co/VWsgnVxf by @dvergano

Are NFL locker rooms ready to welcome gay players?

content.usatoday.com — There are gay players in the NFL. Anonymous interviews, former players who have come out and mere statistics will tell you that's an ironclad truth. But the league has yet to see its first active, openly gay performer.

Propaganda firm owner ran smear campaign against USA TODAY journalists

usatoday.com — The online "misinformation campaign," first reported last month, has raised questions about whether the Pentagon or its contractors had turned its propaganda operations against U.S. citizens. But Camille Chidiac, the minority owner of Leonie Industries and its former president, said he was responsible for the online activity and was operating independent of the company or the Pentagon.

Calcium supplements may raise heart attack risk

usatoday.com — The study of approximately 24,000 people between the ages of 35 and 64 found participants who took regular calcium supplements were 86% more likely to have a heart attack than those who didn't take supplements. Those who took only calcium supplements were twice as likely to suffer a heart attack as those who didn't take any vitamin supplements.

Snoop Dogg to throw out first pitch

content.usatoday.com — Snoop Dogg is getting his arm loose. The entertainer will throw out the first pitch in tonight's game when the Twins visit the White Sox at U.S. Cellular Field. Snopp Dogg will be performing later that night at The Venue at Horseshow Casino in Hammond, Ind. The performer is an avowed sports fan.
Snoop Dogg to throw out first pitch - Snoop Dogg is getting his arm loose. White Sox fans will be waiting to see if ... http://t.co/ga51N7ur

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Dems toast 25th anniversary of Rep. Frank’s coming out

content.usatoday.com — The House Democratic campaign organization is hosting a Washington reception next week to toast the 25th anniversary of Rep. Barney Frank, D-Mass., coming out. In 1987, Frank publicly announced he was gay. He has since become one of the most prominent gay politicians in America and is currently one of three openly gay members, including Reps.
Democrats to toast 25th anniversary of Rep. Barney Frank’s coming out http://t.co/x1CjybE1 via @USATODAY

NYC hero vendor runs for Congress

content.usatoday.com — The New York City street vendor who helped alert police to the attempted car bombing of Times Square in 2010 is hoping his notoriety from the event will propel him in to the U.S. House in November. Duane Jackson is one of five Democratic candidates running in New York's June 26 primary for the nomination to face freshman GOP Rep.
The #NYC Times Sq hero street vendor is not doing too bad in his run for Congress. From @Davisusan http://t.co/owgB0ffq

NYC hero vendor runs for Congress

content.usatoday.com — The New York City street vendor who helped alert police to the attempted car bombing of Times Square in 2010 is hoping his notoriety from the event will propel him in to the U.S. House in November. Duane Jackson is one of five Democratic candidates running in New York's June 26 primary for the nomination to face freshman GOP Rep.
Remember that NYC street vendor who alerted police to the Times Square car bomb? He's running for Congress: http://t.co/kUD5bJJm

Make informed decisions on PSA

usatoday.com — Until we improve the test and treatment options, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends against screening for prostate cancer.
"Using a poor test does not make a bad disease any better," task force says, http://t.co/iaPS4STA

The brain behind Google Knowledge Graph

content.usatoday.com — Behind every major consumer product is a story. Take Google's new search engine, Knowledge Graph. The Wikipedia-like search doesn't simply match keywords, but attempts to understand the query, and present deeper results on the right-hand-side of the screen.

The brain behind Google Knowledge Graph

content.usatoday.com — Behind every major consumer product is a story. Take Google's new search engine, Knowledge Graph. The Wikipedia-like search doesn't simply match keywords, but attempts to understand the query, and present deeper results on the right-hand-side of the screen.

Facebook unveils mobile Camera app

content.usatoday.com — Facebook, the dominant home for online photo sharing, is releasing a new camera app for the iPhone that will attempt to make the process for posting images to the social network easier. Facebook expects the app to go live by 4 p.m. ET.