Ox Notes: January 8, 2009

PBS is warning that low-income families could suffer if the federal government's digital converter box rebate program runs out of money. The publicly-funded network also announced a new reality series about the Big Apple Circus, debuting in Fall 2010.

EW posted a video tour of the Real World: Brooklyn house. In recent seasons, the tricked out houses have been more interesting than any of the contestants.

EW also has a satisfying rant about why the People's Choice Awards are stupid and meaningless.

Zap2It has the info on the new cast of The Celebrity Apprentice.

CBS pulled Million Dollar Password from its winter schedule with two episodes yet to air.

Dancing with the Stars 2 contestant Lisa Rinna says she looks "like a freak" after some recent plastic surgery.

I was happy with the results of the double elimination on last night's episode of Top Chef: New York, which introduced new permanent judge Toby Young. Bravotv.com has blog posts by Tom Colicchio and the new judge, as well as the judge he replaced, Gail Simmons.

I'll be back on Tuesday, January 13 with a new Ox Notes. Until then, enjoy the Shaolin Monks' performance from this week's Superstars of Dance: