Almost a year ago, former Google executive Marissa Mayer struck a deal to purchase the user review-based Zagat brand.

Today, Google confirmed it's expanding its travel content library by acquiring the Frommer's brand of travel guidebooks and related assets from US publisher John Wiley & Sons, while Mayer, of course, has struck a different big deal for herself.

The Frommer's deal will beef up the Google+ Local platform, which now incorporates Zagat restaurant reviews, with Frommers-curated lists such as "Best National Parks of the Pacific Northwest" and other travel resources.

Why buy rather than partner? Zagat, for starters, can't do it all alone — while Google has big plans in the travel space.Continue reading...

President Obama unveils US budget plan to trim deficit, with $4 trillion in cuts over 12 years, keeping Medicare and Medicaid, and curbs on charity write-offs. The 2012 race in mind, Barack and Michelle Obama also plan to appear on Oprah's May 2nd show.

Apple's iPhone 5 said to be coming this summer, while do-not-track tool added to new Safari browser. Sony, meanwhile, lands top spot for consumer electronics in latest Harris Poll.

Barry Bonds found guilty of osbtruction of justice.

LeBron James bumps Kobe Bryant for the bestselling NBA jersey, as Bryant accused of anti-gay slur.

BP cleanup funds come under scrutiny.Continue reading...

Citi says every single major automaker is a "sell" thanks to Japan supply/disruption issues as Honda faces US slowdown as parts-strapped Toyota cancels overtime at UK plants.

Audi to offer limited-edition “halo” cars to haunt BMW.

Dancing with the Stars faces heat over dancer's Playboy cover.

Dell increases investment in cloud computing.

Expedia plans to spin off TripAdvisor.

Genentech gets help from patients in Avastin fight.Continue reading...

A&W debuts first value menu.

Amazon launches Windowshop, an iPad shopping app.

Berkshire Hathaway leans toward a potential successor to legendary investor Warren Buffett. 

BP defends Gulf oil-spill response.

Burger King is bringing its value menu to the UK.

Cebu Air (of dancing cabin crew fame) soars on its IPO today.Continue reading...