Offbeat - News April 30, 2011

Mn Expert: Why The Southern Tornado Death Toll Was So High (WCCO)
Why was the death tollA in the southern tornadoes so high? Todd Krause, a tornado warning specialist with the National Weather Service in the Twin Cities, said the tragic twisters wereA not unexpected.

Media outlets urge access in Edwards sex tape case (WKYC)
A North Carolina judge will hear from attorneys for media companies that want broader disclosure in a lawsuit over a sex tape described as involving former presidential candidate John Edwards.

In flip, no ponchos required of some Ohio voters (The Modesto Bee)
An Ohio elections board has dropped a plan to give voters a poncho to cover up if they come to the polls next month wearing clothing that promotes local schools.

Thickness-gate: white iPhone 4 slightly thicker, causing case manufacturer angst (examiner)
Size does matter, at least when it comes to devices. The long-awaited white iPhone 4 has arrived, carrying a surprise for many: it's slightly bigger than the black model, just enough to give case manufacturers fits.

Austin keeps some weddings weird (WWLP)
The royal wedding in London may have all the pomp and circumstance, but people around the Texas capital like to "Keep Austin Weird." Both the ceremonies, and the venues.

Leaking Mass. house dials 911 for help (WRAL)
After months of enduring a leaking pipe that buckled its floors and sagged its ceilings, an empty Massachusetts house somehow called police for help.

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