Style and Focus News Bites

** It has been reported that Actress Dame Maggie Smith known for roles in "Sister Act", "Harry Potter", "Keeping Mum", "Tea with Mussolini", "Becoming Jane" and "A Room with a View" has been diagnosed with breast cancer. Dame Maggie has an upcoming film project the film "From Time to Time". However at this time her rep has not confirmed the illness (Daily Mail). If it's true, she will be in my thoughts and prayers. I also wishes all the best.

** According to The Hollywood Reporter, CBS has decided to cancel "Jericho". The season finale will air next Tuesday, March 25th at 10:00pm.

** A must read article on how the lagging economy is effecting more than just Wall st. describes how various stores including Nordstroms are noticing less customer traffic in their stores due to the economy (New York Times).

** L'Oreal has developed a range of fragrances and deodorants with sportswear brand Airness in an effort to increase its presence in the growing men's market. Under the agreement with Airness, L'Oreal will launch three fragrances and six deodorants in April from 3,000 distribution points across France. L'Oreal also signed a deal with Maison Martin Margiela to develop a range of perfumes (Cosmetic Design).

** Actress Angela Bassett was honored yesterday with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. She is know for her roles in "Akeelah and the Bee", "The Rosa Park's Story", "Waiting to Exhale" and "What's Love Got to Do with It". Bassett can currently be seen in the new film Tyler Perry's "Meet the Browns" which is released in theaters today.

** Tom's of Maine is launching a series of new toothpaste formulas that feature its new formula, comprising natural-based active ingredients. The company says that the patent-pending formula is a major breakthrough for the natural oral care sector and will be incorporated into its new Natural Clean & Gentle Care and Natural Sensitive Care toothpastes (Cosmetic Design).

** Actress Song Hye Kyo know for her role on the popular TV series "Hotelier" is studying Chinese for her crossover into the Chinese Film Industry. The actress is a native of South Korea (krfilm.net).

** Actress Jennie Garth has signed on to star in a new CBS TV show, "My Best Friend's Girl". Garth will play the female lead. The show will center around two friends (played by Tim Peper and Josh Cooke) who own a bike shop.

** Actress, comedian, author, TV and radio host Whoopi Goldberg has recently launched G Beds - Bedding by Whoopi Goldberg on QVC. The line consists of linens, duvet covers, pillows, coordinating sheet sets and throws. Purchase the products through QVC at (800) 345-1515 or qvc.com.