Also in the news...

• Considering this is one of the few eateries where I can bring my young maniacs children, you'll know where to find me in two weeks: IHOP offering gratis pancakes on Feb. 23 in return for donated flapjacks for a good cause.


• I'll worry about Babs after I land my own damn job: Consumers vote on next job for Barbie, to be revealed at toy fair on Feb. 12.


• I guess both my kids are destined, then, to be clumsy and uncoordinated, just like their mom and dad (though we were both born in April -- go figure): Study shows kids born earlier in the year are more likely to be athletic.


• "Father of the nation" indeed: South African prez apologizes to his baby's mama, his extended family, and all those hot young baristas at the Johannesburg Starbucks for fathering his 20th illegit child.


• Done: Parents will raise happier kids if they put children second to their marriage.