Dropping dime to call your ex could pay off
What's the question on everybody's mind? Journalist Susan Shapiro believes it is ``Should I call my ex?'' Edwin Oster looked up Donna Hanover 34 years after they broke up. Hanover was then divorcing former New York City Mayor Rudolph Giuliani in what has been called the messiest marital battle in U.S. politics.
( By Danielle Roter, Special to the Mercury News, 04/02/2004 04:01 AM PDT)

Getting the most from your closet
ORGANIZING STORAGE SPACE CAN HELP YOU LOOK, FEEL BETTER
You keep skeletons in the closet. You stow family secrets there. You might even have a secret sexual identity way in the back. But that droopy halter from two years (and two sizes) ago? Out, out outfit!
( By Vera H-C Chan, Special to the Mercury News, 04/02/2004 04:01 AM PDT)

Some relaxing bath additives are worth their salt
Most of us don't take baths -- quick showers are efficient enough. But every once in a while, one's body cries out for the deep restoration that comes with a steamy, leisurely bath. Bubbles, oils and other elixirs enhance the experience, but for a sure-fire way to soothe a tired soul (and soles), try cathartic salts. At least that's what we thought before we took a test plunge.
( 04/02/2004 04:01 AM PDT)

Four ways to redo the closet
High end. Rich woods, glass accents, lighting, cushy seating, marble-topped vanities, velvet lining: All this can be yours for up to $20,000 per job. For less than $2,000, you get a less posh but an equally useful makeover. Generally estimate about $100 per linear foot, depending on the add-ons.
( 04/02/2004 04:01 AM PDT)

When shoes take over, here's how to fight back
When you have more shoes than room to store them, you need to either purge with a vengeance or figure out a way to hold on to every sling-back, mule, boot and walking shoe. Here's a six-step program to help get you on your feet:
( By Vera H-C Chan, Special to the Mercury News, 04/02/2004 04:01 AM PDT)

Paul Rodriguez
ENTERTAINER
Known for his quick wit and wry humor, Paul Rodriguez, 49, planned on being an attorney. Instead, he's found fame as a comic and an actor.
( 04/02/2004 04:01 AM PDT)

Larry Gerston
POLITICAL SCIENCE PROFESSOR AT SAN JOSE STATE UNIVERSITY Age: 57 Personal: wife, Elisa; sons Adam, 23, and Lee, 18; daughter, Rachel, 16
( 04/02/2004 04:01 AM PDT)

Why nice guys finish back in the pack
I watched the first season of ``Average Joe.'' OK, I got really into it. Then Melana picked hunky (but dull) Jason over the less hunky (but charismatic) Adam, otherwise known as the ``Average Joe.''
( By Kristi L. Gustafson, Albany Times Union, 04/02/2004 04:01 AM PDT)

Editor trying to upgrade Star's image
Shocker! Did Star magazine desert longtime companions for lavish affair with rich, sexy young readers? Truth be told, it's too soon to tell. But such juicy speculation got a glossy new push Thursday as über-editrix Bonnie Fuller completes the 30-year-old gossip sheet's transformation from supermarket tabloid to mainstream magazine.
( By Jesse Washington, Associated Press, 04/02/2004 04:01 AM PDT)

Between the lines
A LOOK AT CELEBRITY HANDWRITING
While appearing to be acquainted with many, the writer may admit only a few people into his/her confidence, even preferring the company of family or a trusted friend. This seems to be brought about by a sense of inadequacy. Feelings are repressed, at times surfacing through anger, surprising even those around her/him. This is a talented, strong individual who thrives through determination and persistence, but not necessarily through self-conviction. Streamlined, efficient, capable of juggling several...
( 04/02/2004 04:01 AM PDT)

Some relaxing bath additives are worth their salt
Burt's Bees Therapeutic Bath Crystals, $8.49 for 1 pound. Ahava Dead Sea Bath Salts Muscle Melt, $10.99 for 1.1 pounds. Archipelago Botanicals Yuzu and Grape Seed Relaxing Bath Salts, $16 for 1.05 pounds.
( By Crystal Chow, Mercury News, 04/02/2004 04:01 AM PDT)

Burning Question
Last week's question Your best friend announces she/he's going to marry someone you know is a certifiable creep. You: Hold your tongue and hope the creep has changed, or clue in your friend and risk her/his wrath?
( 04/02/2004 04:01 AM PDT)

The planner
Beneficial shopping. Ballet San Jose Silicon Valley is among the local non-profits benefiting from ``Community Shopping Day'' Thursday at Macy's at Westfield Shoppingtown Valley Fair. Purchase a $10 discount ticket that day, and you'll receive up to 20 percent off merchandise throughout the store (except cosmetics and fragrances). If something is already on sale, the discount will be additional. Other inducements: entertainment, food samples and a chance to win a $500 shopping spree.
( 04/02/2004 04:01 AM PDT)