As a native of a Springfield, I shed a few tears after hearing that “The Simpsons” creator Matt Groening didn’t base the hometown of Homer, Marge, Bart, Lisa and Maggie on that of Illinois’ precious capital, but the far less superior Springfield, Oregon. (via Smithsonian magazine)

Maxim readers might be disappointed to learn that meeting any of the magazine’s favorite politicos is slim to … impossible. And it’s not because they’re from Oregon—they’re not even real. See which 15 fictitious candidates of TV and film earned the publication’s vote.

Your superhero dreams may come true now that you can order your very own personalized action figure. Holy strawberries, Batman.

The evil powers of Sarah Palin celebrity and fame sadly struck the morning show circuit last week, which, as Newsweek highlights, left journalism in the lurch.

Using its powers for good, home superstore IKEA moved beyond merely designing interior décor and 1,000-piece furniture kits. This time, the retailer has set its eyes on laying out an entire private London neighborhood.

Speaking of the U.K., Pizza Hut just launched its new hot dog stuffed crust pizza in Great Britain, helping explain why the U.K. is the third most obese nation on earth.

A large portion of the large portions found on the plates of Americans is probably thanks to Denny’s, although the restaurant chain is letting its “Always Open” Web series entice hungry eaters when the appeal of deep-fried mozzarella sticks packed inside of a grilled cheese sandwich doesn’t do the trick.

Appetite aside, the grossly popular “Hunger Games” franchise appears to be looking for a new director. Gary Ross, who helmed the first installment of the Lions Gate series as well as co-wrote the screenplay, says he doesn’t have the time.

Best Buy is looking for a new CEO. The Consumerist reports that Brian Dunn is done at the electronics retailer, resigning after a three-year stint as its top executive. Forbes claims the decision was due to alleged misconduct on Dunn’s part. The matter is reportedly under investigation.

Meanwhile, the Ad Age Pop Thermometer is investigating what’s hot in popular culture this spring.

As for tax season, all you last-minute filers have the support of Seattle’s Best and in its “Great American Coffee Refund.”



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