BET Bans Ciara Video for "Ride", Ciara Responds, Why BET Is a Disgrace to African-Americans and the American culture

Ciara's video for "Ride" has been banned from BET for being sexually suggestive and Ciara had this to say about it.



We find it how BET can ban anything and say it is sexually suggestive when they have had a history of playing videos of poor taste.  Rap videos consistently show scantly-clad women doing erotic dances with demeaning lyrics geared towards them.  Beyonce can wear and say just about anything and they don't have a problem with it, and have you seen the last few Trey Songz videos?  He is imitating sexual acts in the last few of his videos.  BET doesn't have a problem with this.  This is the type of stuff we talk about.  BET is in the money making business.  They will play what is profitable for them at that present time, and what isn't they will try and play the socially responsible card.  When is the last time you have seen anything of any social or moral value on BET?  BET is a disgrace as a representation of African-Americans.  They perpetuate every stereotype of the African-American race.  The channel brings you socially regressive shows such as "Frankie and Neffe"  "106 & Park" and regularly played-movies such as "I Got the Hook Up" and "Soul Plane" needs change their name because they do not represent the black race in any shape form or fashion.  The idea of young children growing up and watching the mockery of the culture on television disgusts us. 

So we would like to say to 'Black Entertainment Television,' if you are going to ban this Ciara video you should ban every video that demoralizes women and the black culture as a whole and is sexually suggestive.  That would be the bulk of the videos you nominated for 'Video of the Year' at this years BET Awards, but at least it mean you stood for something.  Debra Lee and all of the people over there who run it need to resign because they have only worsened the situation.   BET, just do us all a favor and go off-air.

Here is the Ciara video BET banned

Simon tells Oprah he's 'bored' with American Idol; Knowing When It's Time for a Change

Simon Cowell told Oprah he quit American Idol because he was "bored."

Simon spoke with Oprah while 'on location' on the set of American Idol over a cup of tea.  Simon, in speaking with Oprah who is also leaving her show next year, said:

"I'm leaving probably for the same reasons you left. You just know that time's up. "I remember the first year when we did this, and it was like an adventure, and I loved that, not knowing if it would be successful, and the buzz, [and] we were kind of making it up every week. I loved that buzz. It was fun. I've always promised myself I would leave before I was forced to go."

Cowell will quit American Idol when the current season – the ninth – ends next week, so he can concentrate on launching a US version of his hit UK show, The X Factor.

It is nice that Simon knows when to quit.  Some of us do not know when it is time to quit something and try something new.  We tend to become stuck with things in our lives, though we really have no reason for being in those positions.   Dare to do something different and not be stuck doing the same ol thing year after year.  We only have one life to live, live it to the fullest!

Lebron James, His Mother & Delonte West Story in a Nutshell; We Are All Human

So we will sum up this Lebron James controversy for everybody.

So this week it came out after the Cleveland Cavaliers lost their last game in the NBA playoffs, that Lebron James' mom had been sleeping with his teammate Delonte West.

Rumor has it that Lebron found out about his teammate and mom's affair right before the game and that triggered his poor performance in what will probably be his last game with the Cleveland Cavaliers.  The website that revealed the news, terezowens.com, stands by everything that they revealed stating that they have multiple sources to confirm it's true.  Lebon James has denied the entire ordeal and his lawyers sent the website a cease and desist letter denying the rumor.

Even NBA Hall-of-Famer Calvin Murphy has come out and confirmed the allegations saying, "It ain't no rumor" to ESPN radio.

Murphy went a step further by confirming that the story is “absolutely true,” that everyone knew about it, and he has “legit” sources who can prove it. He even threw more salt in Lebron’s wounds by stating that Delonte was not the only one hitting off Gloria — there was more than one dude involved!

The one thing Lebron James can't do too much of is take this personally if this story is true.  People are gonna be people, even those you hold close.  We are sure their were plenty of signs if this was the case and he probably was blind to the facts being that his mother was involved.  We cannot be so blind as to build up anybody in our lives to the level that we do not give them room to make mistakes.  Everybody makes mistakes in life and Lebron has come to learn that about his mother.  We are all human and none of us are perfect.  The problem we have to face is accepting people for their shortcomings or faults and being willing to love them despite those faults. 

Lindsay Lohan Gets Off the Hook, No Jail Time; Money and Our Judicial System

Lindsay Lohan no longer will be facing jail time according to People.

The court removed the arrest warrant when somebody posted Lindsay's $100,000 bail.

The court lifted an arrest warrant Thursday that was issued against the actress just hours earlier after she pulled a no-show for a progress review hearing, a court clerk confirms to PEOPLE.




The actress, 23, posted $100,000 bail, paying a bail bondsman $10,000 for the bond, to ensure her appearance at a new hearing date set for Monday morning.



Earlier in the day, Lohan's attorney Shawn Chapman Holley told Superior Court Judge Marsha Revel that her client's passport was stolen while at the film festival, but Revel rejected that as a valid excuse and issued the warrant.

Previously, we spoke about nobody being above the law, in which they aren't idealistically.  We all know, however, for the right amount of money our judicial system will reprieve just about anybody.  Lindsay Lohan has gotten out of so many binds due to her celebrity status and wealth.   Had she been a poor and not famous, we are sure Lindsay Lohan would NOT be getting the special treatment that she has been getting. 

Scarlett Johansson Just Got a New Ethiopian Little Sister; Finding Purpose at any Age

Scarlett Johansson just got a new little sister courtesy of her mom's new adoption.

Scarlett Johanson's mom has adopted a little baby from Ethiopia named Fenan and recently missed out on her daughter's Iron Man 2 premiere in order to pick the child up from Ethiopia.

Johansson also has an older brother, Adrian, and a twin brother, Hunter, as well as another half-brother, Christian, from her father's previous marriage. 

Adoption is a wonderful thing, at any age.  Johansson's mom has not only found purpose in her at a later age and has helped a fellow human being in need at the same time.  Growing older is not the end of the world, you can find purpose with your life and different things to do with your life.   

Lindsay Lohan Misses Court, D.A. Wants Warrent Issued; No one is above the law, well me and you

Lindsay Lohan may have a warrant issued tomorrow after missing her flight from Cannes to LA for her court day tomorrow.

Lindsay claims her passport was stolen and she's getting a replacement tomorrow.

We're told Lindsay will not be arrested when she lands at LAX ... it's a misdemeanor warrant and she'll almost certainly be allowed to turn herself into the court.

Our D.A. sources say the prosecutor in the case will scoff at Lindsay's excuses for not completing her alcohol ed classes and for not appearing in court. As one source said, "She needs to feel the consequences, and jail could end up being a good thing for her."

Nobody is above the law, not anybody.  Some people of affluent wealth or status are not neither, though it may seem that way.  You have to abide by the law in order to survive in this world.  Sometimes we certain things and think that maybe we can get away with it.  You maybe be able to a few times, but do not think it won't catch up with you in the end. 



Read more: http://www.tmz.com/#ixzz0oRLbhk3K

Blogger Sandra Rose Gets Taste of Her Own Medicine from Chris Brown; Getting Good Karma

Everybody who has read Sandra Rose's blog knows how mean-spirited she can be, well she got a taste of her own medicine courtesy of Chris Brown.

After publishing a post on him saying his career was dead, Chris Brown took to twitter to crack jokes on her.

You cannot expect to be mean to people and not receive some of that back.  Sandra Rose blog is probably one of the most hateful blogs we know.  Daily, she spews hateful and mean things about celebrities and entertainers that are uncalled for.  The jokes were wrong on Chris Brown part, but we do not feel sorry for Sandra Rose.

There are rules of the universe, not matter which way you put it.  Some call it karma, others call it revenge.  You cannot expect good things to happen to you when you do wrong by other people.  Payback will come eventually in some form or another.  On the other hand, if you good things for people or do good things, you can expect to get good things in return sooner or later.  It is plain and simple.  Watch your motives and actions.  Watch how they affect others because you never know how something you do and write can affect other people.

Jaun-Carlos Cruz was to kill wife and himself; Why not having kids isn't the end of the world

Juan-Carlos Cruz pulled a page from a fantasy novel.  Cruz, who once hosted a show on the food network, was trying to hire homeless men to off his wife, and then planned on killing himself soon after.  It's all because his wife, Jennifer Campbell, was infertile.

Sources say the Santa Monica Police Department and the L.A. County District Attorney are fully aware 47-year-old Jennifer Campbell has been despondent for years over her infertility and has spoken openly to friends that she wanted to end her life.


But Campbell is a deeply religious, practicing Catholic and the church views suicide as a mortal sin.


Our law enforcement sources say the information police and prosecutors have "is absolutely clear" -- Cruz was trying to honor his wife's wishes by ending her life. He then planned on killing himself.

Women you should never feel bad about not being able to have children.  There are so many other children in this world with whom you can touch.  Many children out here need the loving care that  you can provide.  You cannot change the way you were designed so why get sad and depressed over it.  The adoption processes in the United States are long if you took that route, but there are many you can adopt outside the country.  Use all that love you have in your heart on children who need it.  You will be surprised at the fulfillment you get.

Click here for a list of adoption agencies that can help you in you search to become an adoptive mother.

Rappers Gucci Mane and Waka Flocka Ambushed at Video Shoot; Hood Mentality 101

Gucci Mane and Waka Flocka were recently ambushed at a video shoot by random persons looking for a fight.



There is something in the ghetto that tends to keep even the biggest stars in the ghetto, the hood mentality.  The is more so seen in urban communities than in any others.  It is a state of mind where one thinks one has to prove a point everywhere one goes, violence is the only answer, snitching is forbidden and people do not like seeing another person get ahead of them.  That mentality has to be broken in order to progress in this world.  Some of us still stay in that mind-frame and wonder why we still find ourselves in the hood or ghetto even though we might not be physically there anymore.  You have to care about yourself enough to know the place you come from doesn't embody you or define you.  It is okay to acknowledge it as your roots, but that is where it should start and end.

New Miss USA Rima Fakih already surrounded with 'stripping' photos controversy and raunchy video

The new crowned Miss USA Rima Fakih has only been crowned for one day and is already swirled in controversy.   Photos of her involved in a striptease contest have hit the net. 

Mojo In The Morning held an event at The Coliseum gentlemen's club in Detroit in 2007 called "Stripper 101" in which Fakih was a contestant. "Rima was one of the girls that won most of the contests that day. We do a pole dancing contest, lap dance contest and booty popping contest," Mojo told RadarOnline.com Monday morning. "She won a personal stripping pole for your house and we had an adult company that gave away all kinds of toys and dirty things that make me blush."

Miss USA officials are currently investigating this issue.

But a second source close to the pageant told RadarOnline.com that officials are definitely looking into it, taking the matter seriously and looking to limit potential damage.

Mojo said that when the pageant spokesperson called his station, "They were not happy about the photos. They don't want this out there. I asked if something was wrong and they told me they couldn't comment on that and just needed to make a determination.


"Rima's a good girl. She was so incredible at the event and we don't think it should be a reflection of her Miss USA title," Mojo continued. "There are doctors and lawyers that are a part of those events we do, so we don't think the pageant should look at this in a negative way."

To view photos, click here,

Rima Fakih is honored to have been the first Arab-american to win the Miss USA contest ever.
We do not think there should be a big blowup surrounding this and we are sure, considering some of the past winners, Donald Trump and the Miss USA organization, not let this controversy get out of hand.

As for being an aspiring role model for young women all across the country by being Miss USA, do you think Fakim made a smart choice in participating in these contests?  We have to always watch what we do in  our present, because it might affect our future.  Think about your decisions now instead of when it becomes too late!

Spencer admits to Holding Heidi Captive: Freedom in a Relationship

In the clip from tomorrow night's The Hills episode, Spencer admits to keeping Heidi captive and doesn't let her do anything.  



As you all know, Heidi's mother claimed her daughter was being held captive. Soon after,  Heidi tried to have her mom arrested.

Women, anytime you get to a point in a relationship where things are this controlled, RUN AWAY.  DO NOT let a man tell you what to do when it comes to personal freedoms.  Same things goes for men, do not let a women tell you what you can and can't do when it comes to personal freedoms.  You have a right to decide who you can and can't talk to and what you can and cannot do. 

Christina responds to Lady Gaga fued for the "last time"; How to fight jealousy

Christina Aguilera has responded to the Lady Gaga comments she made in 'Out' magazine that leaked earlier today

Dear Fans,



I would like to take a moment to clarify something that has been brought to my attention this morning. It is very easy for comments to be taken out of context and create unnecessary drama-especially between us women. So I would like to tell you all directly so my words can not be misconstrued to sell someone else’s story…I have absolutely nothing against Lady Gaga or any other female artist in this business. I think she is great, and I appreciate any woman fearless enough to go against the norm. She has earned her success with hard work and a clear focus and I have nothing but respect for that.

There is room for all of us on everyone’s iPods.



This is not the first time I have been unfairly pitted against another female artist but it will be the last time I comment on the matter.

Do you think Christina is being treated unfairly in all this or do you think it she has been rightfully criticized for making those comments?

Women are often pitted against one another, but other women sometimes pit themselves against each other.  Jealousy is a bad monster and needs to be tamed.  We are not referring to Christina per say, but women in general.  If you loved yourself enough, you wouldn't have to be so quick to dismiss the next women because you feel superior or inferior.  Love who you are and what you have to bring to the table.  No two people are alike.  Find what makes you unique and focus on that and that alone.





“Can’t hold us down….”



With love,

C/X

Unknown Entertainment Reporter named Jawn Murray takes aim at Erykah Badu and She Responds; The negative culture of our press

Erykah Badu responded to claims by an unknown entertainment reporter named Jawn Murray who gave one of her recent concerts a bad review. 

The unknown reporter had this to say in response on his twitter

Tom Joyner told me on-air that Erykah Badu is mad about my report from #TobagoJazzExperience. She's not happy that I said her show was bad.

I'm the one that should be mad! I had to sit thru that artsy-fartsy show full of obscure album cuts that no one knew! Get over it Erykah!


I wonder if Erykah is also mad at the thousands of people who walked out & the local Tobago media that panned her show? I guess not! lol

Erykah Badu responded to these allegations on the Tom Joyner morning show simply responding,  "Who is Jawn Murray?"

Jawn Murray takes regular digs at various celebrities on his spot on the Tom Joyner morning show.  He kind of reminds us of the black Perez Hilton, but a lot less popular.  It upsets us when people diss what they do not understand.  He has an opinion just like everybody else, but the negative way in which he went about saying it was what we did not like.  People love to hate what they cannot understand and often try to cast it down and negatively talk about it.  If you call yourself a "reporter" as he says it, your news media coverage is supposed to remain unbiased and for the most part.  When you take regular digs at celebrities like Badu and Solange Knowles, it does nothing but increase the negative environment that surrounds our celebrity culture and a discord amongst fans and the entertainers.  Erykah was right in responding "Who is Jawn Murray?"  Just because you have an audience to speak to, does not give you the write to spew negative statements about the celebrities who gave you the status you have now. 

This is with all reporters and bloggers.  This culture has become so negative.  It is time that we started being responsible and accurate when reporting these stories.  The people viewing these gossip blogs and columns no longer know the difference between what is real news and what is speculation anymore.  And adding a mean-spirited tone to your news or gossip stories does not help neither.  You have an impressionable audience.  People like this Jawn Murray guy and Perez Hilton have so much karma coming back to them and we all know it.  Do you want that coming back to you? You be the judge.

Rapper Pitbull Cancels Arizona concert in Protest of New Law; Why Other Aritists Should Take Note

Rapper Pitbull has pulled out of his concert in Arizona to protest the new immigration law that was passed
.  He explained himself on twitter.

"I am cancelling my concert in Phoenix on May 31… How is the country we enjoy and love bcuz (because) of its human rights, freedom, opportunity and that has been built by immigrants, now start 2 (sic) deny them?? …It is contradicting 2 everything the USA stands 4 (sic)."

We think more artists and entertainers should do this.  We should not support a state that openly discriminates against its own citizens.  America is a wonderful land full of diverse people and so many freedoms others wish they had.  Why is it that we always look for ways to take these freedoms and opportunities away from each other.  Did you know that 10 other states are also considering an Arizona-like immagration law?  Those of us Americans who usually do not participate in politics should let our voices be heard because ignorace is taking over our country and it is time to reclaim it back!

Ke$ha Parody Makes Strong Points

Watch the Ke$ha parody of her song "Tik Tok" video.

See more funny videos and funny pictures at CollegeHumor.

This video makes such a strong case about fame and how it takes very little talent to be famous.  Do you think people like Ke$ha make being famous seem easy?   Or is this just a sign of our times?  You be the judge.

Jamie Lynn Wants to Continue on With her Education; The Importance of an Education

Jill Zarlin of the Real Housewives franchise has been asked by Lynn Spears to give her advice about colleges for her daughter, Jamie Lynn.

"Jamie Lynn is looking at colleges. Jamie Lynn wants to go to college and Lynn needed some guidance. Jill and Lynn are friends and they end up talking a lot about what their daughters are up to.


"Lynn knows that Jill helped Ally and she has very little experience in this area. Jill knows all about the applications and follow-up and Lynn needed an idea of what to expect with Jamie Lynn doing it."

And as far as Jamie raising her young daughter and being in school:

"Jamie Lynn is ready to continue her education. It was difficult being a young mom, but she's doing it and she's ready for a new challenge. College would be great for her - she's very smart. Lynn is so supportive of all of her kids, and she would love to see Jamie Lynn earn a college degree."

It is good that she does want to continue her education.  Not everybody is meant to be a famous star, and we at Fame & Change want to stress that.  Getting your education is not the end of the road.  It is the beginning of a future.  Going to a college, university or trade school can open up doors to a stable and promising life.  Working in the entertainment industry is a gamble and risk. The celebrity life is not for everybody. 

Christina Aguilera speaks out on Lady Gaga Comparisons and Negative Press; Erase the feeling of Obligation

Christina responded to the comparisons to Lady Gaga from her new video "Not Myself Tonight"

“I’m in it for the long haul, and a decade later in my career, I have nothing to prove. To anyone who wants to be negative, it’s like, ‘I’m obviously relevant enough to you for you to care and to talk and to evoke negative feelings inside of you.’ At this point in my career, I’m over any and all weird comparisons or negativity.”

She may have a point.  Christina has earned her stripes in the music industry and does not really have anything to prove. 

There are some of us who think that we have to prove everything to everybody, when in fact, we do not.  Nobody is owed anything in this world or life.  With the exception of work and some family, you do something it is because you want to do it, not because you feel obligated.  Remember that.  You do not have to prove anything to anybody, unless it is in YOUR best interest.
Source

Shocking Video of Sean Levert Before Death; Being Proactive and not Reactive

A distubing video of Sean Levert, son of Eddie and brother of Gerald Levert, has surfaced. 

This video was shot after Sean Levert had been taken into custody by police for falling behind in his child support payments.  He was on medication for anxiety and had been going through withdrawal symptoms. 



As you can see, instead of calling for help or medical attention, the police just restrained him and that is where Eddie eventually passed away.  They claimed he died from "exhaustion" and the coronors report said he died of 'natural causes' but you can easily see his death was preventable.

Sean Levert's family is currently suing the city of Cleveland.

WHen things like this happen, people usually turn their head.  Things like this cannot go without justice being served.  If you see somebody being ill-treated, what would you do?  A few weeks ago in New York, a man was stabbed in the stomach and laid there while dozens of people just walked past him.  He eventually died from his wounds.  We have got to start learning how to be proactive people and not reactive people.  We should have to wait around for somebody else to do something, before we do something ourselves.

Matt Lauer Caught with Pants Down; Getting over a habitual cheater

Matt Lauer has apparently been caught in a cheating scandal during the Olympics and has caused his 12-year marriage to dissolve. 

The paper reports that Lauer's wife, Annette Roque, accused him of "fooling around during 'Today's' on-site coverage of the Olympics in Vancouver" and that Lauer "went wild" while in Canada. He allegedly moved out of the couple's apartment after an "explosive two-day fight."


According to RadarOnline, Lauer stood his wife up for Valentine's Day, choosing instead to stay in Vancouver. Radar's sources claim he was spotted boozing and flirting with women -- including two young, Canadian broadcasters.


"There was lots of drinking and Matt was seen on-and-off with two women, both of them pretty Canadian broadcasters," the source said. "He was getting very flirtatious with them, and they seemed to be enjoying it."

Apparently, a wife of one of Lauer's NBC colleagues found out about his partying ways and called Annette. "She accused Matt of cheating," the source told RadarOnline. "He said the Canadian women were just friends and colleagues. He made the excuse that he'd stayed longer purely for business reasons. The fighting went on for two days, and finally Matt walked out."




Lauer's mother-in-law Johanna Struijk confirmed to RadarOnline that the couple are no longer living together, and Annette is not wearing her wedding ring.

This isn't the first time Lauer has been caught in a cheating scandal. His wife allegedly learned he was having an affair with a married woman back in 1998, just months before their wedding. In 2006, Annette, then pregnant with the couple's third child, filed for divorce but withdrew the divorce petition a month later.

Cheating is never a good thing, especially when it comes to habitual cheaters.  Pulling through an affair can be hard, but it is not impossible.  Everybody has their own ways to cope with things like this, but acting out in anger should not be one of them.  Letting somebody cheat on you numerous times only shows weakness.  You are stronger than that and deserve way better than though.  Love yourself enough to not become numb to somebody disrespecting you enough to not care about being monogamous. 
Source

Heidi Montag Dials Police On Mom; Respecting Your Parents

Heidi Montag has called the police on her mom, Darlene Montag showed up unannounced to her LA home to speak with her

Her mother had showed up and wanted to talk to her daughter for whatever reason," Los Angeles Police Department Sgt. Leffew tells PEOPLE. "Officers arrived on the scene and advised the mother that since her daughter's an adult, she doesn't have to speak to [the mom] if she doesn't want to. The mother said 'fine, no problem' and left. There were no citations or arrests."

"I told my mom a while ago I need space from her," Montag, 23, tells PEOPLE. "And she just showed up at our door unannounced and tried to get in. She was yelling about how I was being held against my will which couldn't be farther from the truth."

Los Angeles police confirm that Egelhoff came to her daughter's home and wanted to speak with her.



It is sad to watch when families are in such a downward spiral.  This is around Mother's Day too which is the sad part.  You should always respect your parents in any situation.  Disrespecting your parents in any situation is uncalled for, no matter how bad it gets. 

Tyler Lambert, son of Dana Plato, Commits Suicide years after His Mother Does The Same; Helping a Suicidal Friend

Tyler Lambert, son of tbe deceased Dana Plato from Different Strokes fame, comitted suicide exactly 11 years after his mother suicide.

The Tulsa, Oklahoma Office of the Chief Medical Examiner told PopEater that Lambert (pictured above in 1999) died from a self-inflicted shotgun wound to the head. Toxicology tests are pending. Though the office had no more information at this time, the National Enquirer alleges Lambert suffered depression surrounding the anniversary of his mother's death and descended into a drug binge prior to his suicide.

Tyler was feeling down and depressed around the anniversary of his mother's death.

Dana Plato committed suicide with prescription pills on May 8, 1999. She was 36 years old. In 2006, a 21-year-old Lambert filed a $20,000 wrongful death lawsuit against Plato's former fiance, claiming he contributed to Plato's death by "not giving immediate medical assistance or contacting medical personnel," according to court documents

We speak about suicide often on Fame & Change.  There are things you can do to help out a friend suffering from depression.  Listen to them with an open ear and watch for their cries for help.   Do not just ignore them or look past it.  If you need ANY help, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-TALK (8255)

Source

Diiddy speaks on lovemaking skills, having sex for tracks and the state of the female emcee game; Treating Your Man Like a King

Diddy answered some interesting questions in a recent interview about making love, the state of the female emcee game, women artists having sex for music tracks, and advice to his son about women.

Did Ciroc help fuel the 36-hour tantric love-making session you were talking about on Twitter?


(laughs) Naw, that’s not really alcohol-induced, that’s more just like a natural gift and part of me being a Scorpio. Everybody may not be into that type of thing, but that was just something I was expressing with everybody on Twitter, because that’s what I do when it’s time for me to focus on sex—not all the time, but once in a blue moon, if I’m in that mood.

I know it probably takes too much concentration with all the breathing techniques and whatnot to have music playing during something like that, but for a normal session what would you say is the best love-making music?

You can never go wrong with Jodeci’s Diary of a Mad Band or R Kelly’s 12 Play would work. I think you can really get busy off those two joints right there.

As a label owner, why don’t you think there are more female emcees succeeding right now?


I really don’t have an answer for that question. But I think Nicki Minaj is gonna come and heat it back up, and I think Lil’ Kim is definitely still relevant—I wouldn’t sleep on her. She has a great album. And I’m actually on one of Trina’s new singles; I know Trina’s got some good stuff. I think maybe [female rappers] just took a little break, to be honest.

Do you think there’s truth to the notion that a lot of female artists use sex for leverage with producers or whatnot?

I don’t really know about the whole fu*kin’ for tracks thing. I never really heard about that shit. As a producer I don’t know if some a*s will make you go in the studio and spend three days making a track for chick. I can’t really see that working. It takes too much time to produce a track the right way for you to give it away for some a*s

What advice you have given your sons about women?


Just to be respectful with women. And also I’m teaching them to make sure that the woman is treating them right. Don’t let no woman not treat you like the king that you are, and make sure you’re treating her like a queen.

I know you’ve been able to avoid popping the question thus far, but do you have any advice for someone who wants to propose with the extravagance of Diddy without having the budget?

If I propose it probably wouldn’t be in a big “fly her to the top of the mountain” type way, it would probably be more in a sincere way. Women love surprises though, so I would suggest finding a really good way to surprise her without spending too much money.

 

Women, Diddy is right, you should treat your man like a king if you expect to be treated like a Queen (Which you should.)  You can't expect him to treat you like royalty, while you are treating him like a peasant.  A relationship goes both ways.  Treat him like the man he is and do not degrade him.  Tell him when he does well and not just when he does wrong.  Cater to him from time to time.  Do the things you have to do because what is a queen without her king?

Source

Laura Bush Pro Gay Marriage and Pro-Choice?; Why we can't judge others

Laura Bush has come out and shown her support of gay marriage and abortion in a recent interview.

Laura Bush sat down with Larry King to promote her book Spoken from the Heart and stated that she supports gay couples getting married and is for abortion for medical reasons.  These views sharply contrast from her husband, former presidentGeorge W. Bush, views and campaigns. 



This is why we never judge a book by its cover.  Just  because somebody seems a certain way does not mean that they are, necessarily, that way.  We tend to judge others and stereotype their viewpoints just because of who they hang around, or their race, ethnicity, or religion.  Not one single human being is like the next one.  We cannot judge others because we would not like to be stereotyped in return. 

A 16-Year Old Miley Cyrus video'd Giving Adult Producer Lap Dance; Children Growing up Too Fast

17-year old Miley Cyrus who was 16 at the time was caught on video giving her 44-year old producer and choreographer Adam Shankman a lap dance for her wrap party for her movie The Last Song.  Watch the video below.



Miley Cyrus has been known to be racy for her age, but how young is too young.  American are letting their kids grow up too fast.  We need to slow down and let children be children as long as they can be.  I know they see images and things in the media and want to imitate those images, but that's when parenting comes in handy at.  It is not as hard as you think to tell your child no and explain to them why they cannot participate in these activities or wear these types of clothes.

Tapes Surface of Michael Jackson pleading for help; Tip on being a good friend

Michael Jackson is never gonna be able to rest in peace, now some tapes have been released.

The tapes, which were reportedly recorded in 2003, show a desperate Jackson begging for money, saying that it is important to his family. He also reportedly says he is afraid he is being stalked and is worried for his family.

“It is Michael. Ahh, it is 4:30 in the morning here that's why I sound very sleepy (laughs) and I'm really worn out... but please check the message I left a day or so ago. I am very concerned. I don't trust that man. We think he's bad, we think he is Italian Mafia. Please... we must be smarter than him. So please, help me with this. I need to get that, those funds so I can do that, I wanna be away. . . I don't want to be in Neverland right now."



Jackson is heard pleading for the money in the recordings and at times is incoherent. "I am very embarrassed. But, um, there should be that I have some finance that's coming up January, February 2nd, and um... that's why I, we, need to have on sun screen to the account 150. Please don't be mad at me for... (inaudible) It's something that's very important to me and my family, because I'm afraid for us that I'm being stalked and I think it is (name withheld)."


The tapes show Michael continues making calls for money, describing how desperate his situation is and how he is afraid of the people around him and wants a change of environment. "It is Michael calling. It is very important, I want that 150 in that account for me, because... I am very concerned about my life. I am hearing a lot of stories that (name withheld) is still trying to sabotage (inaudible) me and I want to be in a different environment and, um, I've found a place that I like and now (inaudible) I want to be away for a while where they can't find me. So please help me, help (inaudible) help me, and, um, more important than (inaudible). We are brothers."

Michael did not have good people surrouding him around the time he passed away.  If he did have any good friends, they would have heard his cry for help a long time ago.  These tapes proved that.

Do you ever sit and notice when a friend is down and out?  Sometimes we miss the hints and clues when it comes to our friends being down and out.  Sometimes we become close-minded to the fact that they have been struggling in life.  Whatever the case may be, in order to be a better friend, we have to start listening with a gentle ear to our friends.  Good friends know how to see through facades when a friend is hurting or sad.  Are you that good friend?
 
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Britney Spears splits with Jason Trawrick...as her agent; Focusing on those who matter

Britney Spears has reportedly split with her boyfriend Jason Trawrick.

Don't worry, the two are still an item.  The break up is a professional one a rep of Spears told People magazine.

The singer and Trawick began dating last summer and have dodged engagement rumors for months. "They are very happy," a source said of the couple. "Things are really good with them.

Have you ever taken out time to work on your relationship.  Sometimes we get so caught up in life that we forget to work on our relationships.  Any type of relationship is work.  You have your rough days and your great days.  Things may look bleak, but taking out time to work on you and your partner could make all the difference in the end.

Lil Wayne gets busted in jail; Music, the 5th element

Lil Wayne is already messing up in jail...not for fighting, but for having a having accessories to an MP3 player.

“He was found in possession of a charger for an iPod or an MP3 player and unauthorised earphones.” According to the source, the music player was not found, but officials are still looking. The Lollipop singer was caught out during a search at 8 a.m. It is believed he will be charged with an infraction. Investigators are trying to work out how Lil Wayne managed to smuggle the items into the jail.

Lil Wayne went to jail earlier this year for a charge in 2007 for possession of a semiautomitic firearm.

We tend to take music for granted a lot and forget how transformative and enduring it can be.  What would the world be like without music.  We would NOT want to know.  Music is life changing, mood changing, it is universal and speaks to many people on different levels.  It IS the 5th element.  Lil Wayne risked more jail time just for an MP3 player,that says a lot about how far we will go in order to listen to it.

Tiger Woods 'Upset and Frustrated'; The importance of a spiritual or counseling intervention

With a less than stellar comeback after the scandal last year, Tiger Woods has become upset and lost due to a neck injury he has sustained.

"For me not to play all 18 holes [at TPC], that was as angry and as frustrated as I've been in a long time," Woods said Monday at a news conference.


Though he doesn't blame the neck injury on his Nov. 27 car accident, the golfer calls the pain "annoying." "[The injury] actually was getting worse," Woods said, "and now I'm at a point now where I just can't go anymore."

Tiger Woods is not only having physical problems, but having trouble mentally too with the troubles going on in his life

"[My game is] certainly not where I would like to have it, there's no doubt," he told reporters. "There's a lot of things going on in my life, period, right now. [I'm] just trying to get everything in a harmonious spot, and that's not easy to do."

And with rumors of a divorce looming, we are sure this has been a rather difficult time for him.

Have you ever been to a point in your life where you were just frustrated and upset by everything that was going on.  At fame & change, we stress finding spiritual or counseling help to deal with these emotions that you are facing.  Life gets so hard sometimes, and having the proper tools to deal with these things in your life can bring balance to yourself much quicker than handling the problems all by yourself.  Think about it

Don Cheadle encounters racist flight attendant

Don Cheadle maybe be an Oscar-nominated actor but that did not stop him from experiencing a bit of racism on a plane ride to LA one day.

He recalls, “We get up to the ticket counter and we’re trying to get our seats together. As we walk up to the counter there’s a crowd and we hear, ‘Everybody just back off! Just back off!’ So I walk up to her (airline worker) and say, ‘Don’t you mean back up?’ And she goes, ‘Yeah, you’re right. Back up and back off!”




Cheadle decided to try a different approach and ask a stewardess when the couple boarded the aircraft – but he was shocked to find she was even ruder.



He explains, “I go up to a flight attendant on the plane and say, ‘Ma’am, we’re seated in different seats…’ and she says, ‘Well I can’t change seats on the plane.’ I said, ‘No, I’m aware of that,’ and she goes, ‘What you (sic) want me to do about it?’ (I said) ‘Nothing, that’s fine.’



“So later I go up to her (again) and ask her what was the problem. She went, ‘Well, what did you want me to do about it?’ So I said, ‘I just wanted you to attend, help me.’ So I turned around (to sit down) and she goes, ‘Don’t you turn your face to me. I will get you thrown off the plane.’ The woman had to be on some drug, I imagine! So I used a colourful expression to her and kept moving to my seat…”



The flight attendant finally came to her senses and apologized to Cheadle: “Right before the end (of the flight) she puts two bottles of Courvoisier (cognac) between our seats. I said, ‘What is that? Why are you giving it to me?’



“She said, ‘I’m sorry, this is my way of apologising. I was told there was a black guy with a hat on sneaking into first class and I thought that was you.’ So that’s just racism? That’s cool!”



Cheadle said the airline crew member also mistook him for comedian Tim Meadows.

This is sad, but not rare in today's America.  America thinks it has come far in racism, but we forget racism can come in all types of forms, including racial stereotyping and profiling.  We still have a long way to go with racial tolerance here in America and getting over the stereotypes of cultures that hold us back. 

Lisa Raye says she would beat up Rosci from BET's '106 & Park'; How to handle conflict with 'the other 'woman/man'

These are some clips of LisaRayes trip to New York for publicity for her new show on TvOne recently



Lisa and Rosci have a volitle past.  Rosci was supposedly the mistress with whom LisaRaye's ex-husband caught LisaRaye caught cheating with.  Rosci allegedly gets around and sleeps with many men and is a notorious golddigger.

If you had a chance to meet up with the person with whom your spouse cheated on you with, what would you do?  Fighting and arguing will never get anything solved in these types of situation.  If the person was bold enough to sleep with somebody who was in a relationship, they are bold enough to do anything.  The mature thing to do would be to say your peace and move on with your life.  Obviously they have issues already, and you arguing with a person of that nature will only make the situation spiral out of control.  Be the better person in this situation, they would hate that.

Tyra Banks Adds Author to her Resume; The importance of being versatile

Tyra Banks has inked a 3-book deal with Random House and will be writing a novel entitiled Modelland.

"I said I was going to do it, and here it is!" Banks, 36, writes in a note to fans posted Tuesday on Tyra.com. "It's for all the girls and guys who want a lot more FANTASY in their lives … and some fierceness and magic, romance and mystery, crazy and wild adventures, and yeah, some danger too.


"It's my novel called Modelland (pronounced "Model Land") that takes you to a fantastical place you've never seen, or heard about, or read about before ... Where dreams come true and life can change in the blink of a smoky eye."

"Modelland has always been a part of my mind and my heart," she says. "I'm excited that you'll be able to read about this magical world that's been living in my dreams for so many years."

Tyra has so many names to her resume including model/producer/talk show host/tv show host/ and now author.  We all could take a tip from  her and make our resumes a little more versatile.  We get so stuck in a certain career or position in life and do not explore all the different sides to our complex human spirit.  Whether you like to volunteer and help out, write, sing or cook.  Find an outlet to express different sides of yourself and not supress them.

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Drake's New Video for "Find Your Love"; Should we follow are hearts or minds?

This is Drake's new video for "Find Your Love"





The video has a great story to it and we would like to speak on the metaphor it represents.  Drake decides to follow his heart and is probably killed for it in the end.  There has been a debate for the last half century over marrying for your heart or mind.  When marriages were prearranged or pre determined back in the past, the majority followed their mind.  Since our Western civilization has gotten away from that era, more people started to marry for love and followed their heart. 

Can you trust your heart in situations or is it better to let your mind lead you?  Following your mind might help you obtain a more rational outcome, but may make you less happy in the end.  Following your heart is a big gamble because you can either win really big or lose awfully hard.  So what is the answer to this debate?

We say a little bit of both, you just have to pick and choose your battles.  Use your mind while following your heart.  When it comes to matters of relationships and love, following your heart is the best thing as long as you keeping things realistic. 

Example:If you loved somebody you know your family and friends disapproved of, you could decide to follow your heart and completely disregard everything they say, but you could also follow your mind stop the pursuit of your beau because all your loved ones disapprove of them.  In dealing with this, a combination of your heart and mind would be the most valuable and reap the most benificial.  Being smart enough to listen to your family's concerns would help ease the tension amongst them and give you things to think about, but letting YOU be the final judge on the relationship would be the heart part. 

This can be applied to so many things in life, not just your love life.  Using your mind to follow your heart will not only help you be rational in your decision making, but also allows you to live life to the fullest and happiest!

Eva Mendes Speaks on her Love of Therapy and Marriage; How we all can use therapy

Eva Mendes says that if she ever wanted to get married to her boyfriend, “I’d probably do it in my basement.”

She also says she is not quite ready for a family: “I’m honestly not there yet, but who knows? I’m not a planner — so if it happens, it happens. I have seven nephews and nieces and they keep me happy on that front.”

 She also spoke about her approval of therapy

 “There is nothing like going into a room and sitting down and talking to someone who has no emotional investment in your life.” The actress, who went to rehab in 2008 for an unspecified condition, said of facing life’s difficulties: “Fight them head on. Just be honest with yourself and face it. “I didn’t know how to swim, so I asked my friend to throw me off a boat. I know it’s crazy, but I did it and I survived.”

There seems to be a taboo against therapy, but in all actuality, every one of us could use therapy for different aspects of our lives.  Some use religion as therapy, some meditate, but it is all one in the same to some degree.  You can use therapy to help cope with the stresses of a job, a new move or school.  Going to therapy does not mean you are crazy, it only means that you are trying to find healthy ways to cope with life. 

Kelis Makes It Hard for Nas to see Children; Parents using Children as Weapons

R&B singer Kelis and rapper Nas have been battling it out in court for child custody and spousal support over the past few months and Nas has finally opened up about it.

Nas tells Vibe magazine about not being able to see their son, Knight.

“My son was born with ice grills, so when his mom feels in the mood she sends pictures. If not, it's hell. It's hell trying to figure that out, trying to get him—I'll just leave it at that. It's hell. A man shouldn't go through that s**t, but it's another story I'ma tell at a different time.”

No matter what goes on between the parents, it should NOT affect the child in any type of way.  If this is true on Kelis's part, she should not allow Knight to suffer by not seeing his dad because she is upset with him for whatever reason.  A child deserves TWO parents, not only one.  There are divorced or separated parents who use their children as weapons against their spouses for being bitter about the breakup.  We have to do better because children should be allowed a chance to live a balanced childhood without the politics of the parents involved.

Source

Lil Wayne Shouts-Out To All his Baby Mama's from jail

Lil Wayne wrote a letter to his fans from jail and given special attention to all the mothers of his children.

It’s not many words in the world more powerful than “mother.” Those six letters can bring joy, just like they bring pain. It can invoke excitement just as quickly as it can anger, depending on the context, I guess. For myself, it means more than I can ever possibly describe, but I will try. I associate the term with immeasurable strength, beautiful patience and infinite wisdom.



You can probably already tell, but the main reason for this letter is to pay tribute to every positive matriarch on Mother’s Day. In my eyes, that day is 365 days a year, but I understand the significance of the holiday. The love between a mother and her offspring is hands down the most beautiful thing God created. More than money, more than fame, more than cars. You know why? Because true love is the only thing that lasts from the moment you’re born to the second you perish. To all the mothers who read this letter, I hope this day allows you to feel the love and respect you so rightfully deserve. You are the role models, not me.



To the mothers of my beautiful children, there remains nothing but love, adoration and respect coming from my heart. Even with the mistakes I’ve made in my life, you give me reason to smile in a place where they attempt to break your spirit each day the sun rises. I love my babies with all my heart. And the fact you brought them into this world only gives me more and more motivation to write these words. Happy Mother’s Day.



Last but not least, my own mother, Ms. Cita. You are my heart and you are my soul. Please don’t ever forget that. We’ve been through everything one could possibly imagine together. With each obstacle that has come our way, you have handled it with the grace and dignity I can only hope to mimic. Even writing this, it’s tough to come to grips with the fact I cannot spend this special day with you. Like you always preached, a man must accept his own actions – good and bad – and learn from them. And that’s what I’m doing. Mom, I love you more than you will ever know. Probably more than I love my own self. Enjoy Mother’s Day because you deserve it. Also, find comfort knowing your son loves you and misses you like crazy.



To everyone, again, I cannot stress this enough, thank you so, so much for the support. My spirits are sky high thanks to you all. It makes the day pass faster knowing people out there care about you and want you to do well. I pray the letters keep coming in at the volume they are right now, especially the overseas ones. They let me know life still does move on, even if I forget at times. I just ask that you all keep the letters to one page. And keep sending the pictures, too. Some of you are talented beyond belief with the drawings and paintings.



I’ll go ahead and end the letter here, but again Happy Mother’s Day to each and every lady who has raised/is raising her kids the best way possible. Take care. God bless. Live life. Show love.



“I can trust my loving Savior

When I fear the world’s alarms;

There’s no safer place of resting

Than His everlasting arms”

Did you show your the special women in your life love on yesterday?  We hope you did because they deserve more than just a day for appreciation.

Barbra Walters to have Heart Surgery!!; The key to living a long life!

Barbra Walters told viewers of "The View" today that she is to have surgery to replace a heart valve later on this week according to ABC News.

Walters said she's known about her condition for a while and thought the time was right for the surgery because she can take the summer off and "can come roaring back in September."




She will have the surgery later this week and is expected to be out of action on "The View" for one to three months

. "You know how I always say to you how healthy I am," she said. "I've never missed a day's work. Later this week, I'm going to have surgery to replace one faulty heart valve. Lots of people have done this."




Walters added that she and her doctors decided to go through with the surgery now because she'll be able to take time off to recover during the summer. While she hasn't "felt differently" lately, an echocardiogram showed that her valves were "getting tighter and smaller," she said.

We wish her all these best and a speedy recovery afterwards. 

Barbra is 80-years old and is still going strong.  She still does specials from time to time and works at The View.  For somebody of her age, that says a  lot about her will to live.  Just because you get older, does not mean your life has to stop.  The myth is that once you do get older, you get sick and miserable.  The truth is, however, you don't have to.  You're love for life shows when you get older.  If you do not love life, you will wither away, but if you have a passion for life, it can carry you until your last days on earth.  Find your passion for life and live a long and joyous life!

Dr. Murray Contacted Joel Osteen; When religion becomes a PR stunt

Dr.  Conrad Murray, who is being accused of aiding in the death of Michael Jackson, has been contacting Joel Osteen for prayer and church sessions.

According to sources connected with Dr. Murray ... TMZ first reported Osteen personally invited Dr. Murray and even gave him a secret code to enter Osteen's Houston church.



But Osteen's rep tells TMZ they were approached by Dr. Murray's people who said the doctor was in need of prayer and Osteen agreed to pray with him.



One of Osteen's reps griped to TMZ, "It seems like this was more of a PR move than seeking actual prayer."

It seems funny that whenever somebody reaches a bad point in their career or celebrity image, they tend to use religion as a way of saying that they have changed.  It does a disservice to religion as an institution. 

Some of us are guilty of this though.  Whenever we want to look favorably in the eyes of others, we turn to religion.  Why not be religious and go to church all the time if that's what you like, but if you use it as a pawn, it does a disservice to you and the religion you practice.  We have to watch our motives, especially when it comes to changing how other people see us (which is never a good way to live.)

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Pink Wasn't Always Nice to Husband; Why Men Shouldn't Keep SIlent with their Partners

Pink says that things have not always been easy between her and her husband Cary Hart to Cosmopolitan

"I'm so dramatic ... and in the past, I've been really mean," the singer, 30, says about her 4-year-marriage to the motocross racer in Cosmopolitan's June issue.


"Carey sat me down one day when we were fighting and said, 'Baby, when you call me names, it hurts my feelings. Please try to stop.' And I was like 'Wow, thank you for telling me how you feel.' Now I fight fair."

This story has a lot of layers to it, but we want to discuss Carey Hart.  What if more men spoke up about how they really felt in relationships,  Men sometimes have a hard time communicating their emotions because of a fear of being seen vulnerable or weak.  However, being vulnerable is not necessarily a bad thing.  Showing vulnerability shows maturity on your behalf and may get you farther than just being silent about a matter or situation. 

Lena Horned Passes Away at 93; Living a full life

Legendary singer Lena Horne passed away at 92 in NYC on Sunday.



She is most commonly known for a career that spanned films, radio, television, recording, nightclubs, concert halls and Broadway.



Horne started as a chorus girl and the Cotton Club in Harlem when she was 16 for $25 a week during the depression. She got a nightclub job in Hollywood that led her tp a 7-year contract at MGM, where she was the first African American performer to be signed.



She refused to play maids and other stereotypical roles offered to black actors and appeared in dozen of films - mostly non-speaking. Lena became best known for her song Stormy Weather and was also the first African American to appear on the cover of a movie magazine, Motion Picture.



Lena earned the Kennedy Center Honors in 1984 and received a lifetime achievement award from the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences in 1998.



Lena Horne lived a life we all should live, with risks.  She married a Caucasion man in a time were interracial relationships were not accepted.  Broke racial and color barriers in Hollywood and never played it safe when it came to speaking her mind and playing movie roles.  Towards the end of her life, she said she felt "fulfilled" and felt like she was complete.  If your life were to end in 24 hours, could you say the same thing.  If not, you might need to get to living then!

Beyonce vs Kelly Rowland:"Not So Much" says Kelly

Kelly Rowland has addressed questions about an alleged rivalry between her and her former groupmate Beyonce.

R&B star Kelly Rowland has brushed off reports she and former Destiny’s Child bandmate Beyonce have fallen out after the “Halo” hitmaker chose to release her new song on the same day as her pal.


Reports of a growing rivalry between the trio have been rampant for years but the stars have continually dismissed the claims.

The rumors resurfaced this week when Beyonce’s new track “Why Don’t You Love Me” hit the airwaves days after Rowland’s new tune “Commander” was released.

But the singer insists the media is reading too much into the joint releases and trying to stir up a feud that doesn’t exist.

She tells HipHollywood.com, “We all came out at the same time and it really doesn’t matter… I think there’s room for everybody… There’s B (Beyonce), there’s Ciara putting something out and (Lady) Gaga putting something out, but, because we started out together, people are going to say things like that.

It is funny we try to create drama between two females.  If this were two males coming from a former group, this would not even be a question.  Instead of celebrating the success of two women, we always have to gossip and speculate about what may or may not be true.  Women should do more to celebrate the successes of each other instead of tearing each other down.  Live your life and be positive about those around you.  It will make everything in your life much better in return.

Lawrence Taylor's accuser: "I was Kicked, Punched and Stomped on"

The minor who is the center of the Lawrence Taylor investigation into rape charger spoke to the New York Post about her entire experience.

The teenage hooker allegedly raped by Lawrence Taylor in a sleazy Rockland County hotel room told The Post yesterday about how her alleged pimp brutally forced her to have sex with the Giants great after she initially refused.


“I told him I wasn’t going to the hotel, and he said, ‘You’re f- – -ing this up, it’s $300,” the frightened Bronx girl, 16, said Rasheed Davis, 36, screamed at her early Thursday. “He hit me in the face, so I covered my face,” said the girl, whose name The Post is withholding. She crouched down on the ground to avoid Davis’ blows, but “[he] started kicking and stomping on me,” the girl said. Davis then dragged her to the Holiday Inn to meet with the Hall of Fame linebacker, barking instructions at her along the way, she recalled.

“He told me to tell him my name is Carmen and I’m 19 years old,” she said. “He told me repeatedly and I had to repeat it back to him.” When she arrived at hotel in Suffern, “the lights were off and [Taylor] didn’t see my face was bruised,” the girl recounted. “Lawrence asked me my age and I told him I was 19.” She said she feared for her life if she didn’t have sex with Taylor.

“If I didn’t go through with it, [Taylor] would’ve called Rasheed and there would have been consequences,” she said. “God knows what would’ve happened if I didn’t go through with it.”

On the drive back to The Bronx, the girl frantically text-messaged her uncle about the alleged assault and prostitution. “Tio [the uncle] help me,” she hurriedly typed out while still in the alleged clutches of Davis, according to a copy of the text shown exclusively to The Post. “I don’t want to live like this.” After getting the message, her uncle called 911 and cops were waiting at Davis’ home to arrest him.

The uncle said the girl is now in foster care, and her biological father is seeking custody.

We want to give you some more facts and stats on human trafficking to let you know how real it is in our country.
 

• It is estimated that 14,500 to 17,500 people, primarily women and children, are trafficked to the U.S. annually
• The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) estimate that 2 million children are exploited in prostitution or pornography every year worldwide 
• Poverty and lack of economic opportunity make women and children potential victims of traffickers associated with international criminal organizations
•   The National Runaway Switchboard says that one-third of runaway youths in America will be lured into prostitution within 48 hours on the streets.
• In most countries, girls represent 80 to 90% of the victims, although in some places boys predominate
• Children who are at greatest risk of becoming victims of CSEC are those that have previously experienced physical or sexual abuse.

Click here for more info on Child Exploitation and Visit the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children to see what you can do to help.

Monday Morning Sunshine Post

This week's sunshine post is Ingrid Michaelson's song "The Way I Am" from her 2007 album Boys and Girls


INGRID MICHAELSON - "The Way I Am" (official video)

Original Signal Recordings

MySpace Music Videos
 
Isn't it awesome you find that one person that takes your for your faults and all.  That is really the message she is trying to get across in this song.  Love is blind in this context because even with somebody's issues or quirks, you still see love in them and feel the love right back. 

Vanessa Carlton survives Pitbull Attacked; Dog Owner Safety Tips

'A Thousand Miles' singer Vanessa Carlton was attacked and bitten by a 9-month old Pitbull dog on May 2 while on a jog in her northern PA home.

Doctors are monitoring her for any infections, but she is expected to be fine. The dog, however, may not be so lucky. Animal control officials have put Bella under a 10-day home quarantine, as a precaution against rabies or a change in behavior.




Bella's owners, Ben and Jo Anne Teichberg, said Ed and Vanessa Carlton confronted them two days after the attack and said they wanted the dog put down.



"They are branding Bella as a dangerous animal and want her put to death," owner Ben Teichberg told the Record. "They said because Bella is a pit bull, it is known to be bad."

Dog owners, remember that you are civilly liable for your pet when something like this happens.  If you know your dog or its breed is naturally inclined to have violent behavior, keep them locked up or in a safe, physical barrier away from the people.  There are also leash laws that prohibit owners from taking dogs off of a leash in public settings, which if violated, can result in fines.  Take precautionary steps when it comes to your dog and the public.  You don't want to have to PAY for it later.

Kelis loves upsetting PETA; Relaxing in Life

Kelis has blasted PETA again and said she loves getting them upset.

Now Kelis has re-ignited the feud – branding the animal rights group bosses uptight and urging them to fight for more “important” issues.


Asked by British rock mag NME if she was “trying to wind them up” with her original letter, she says: “Well yeah! I mean, firstly, it’s just far too easy to p**s them off. I mean, give me a break. Get your panties out of a bunch, just relax. I mean seriously? I believe in live and let live, but I feel there are far more important issues with natural disasters and poverty and plague. I’m sorry if a mink is last on my list.”

We all read the letter she wrote to PETA back in January.
 
The fight PETA is fighting is a commendable one.  We do not want to get really opinion based here, but are their things in your life that you take too seriously.  Do you find yourself becoming sensitive over things that really have no merit or social value?  Kelis does have a point that we need to live and let live.  We do get all riled up over things and need to relax sometimes.  Life would be a lot more easier if we practiced this.

Newsweek article on Homosexuals in Hollywood: "Gays Can't Play Straight Roles"

Ramin Setoodeh wrote an article in newsweek about sexuality in Hollywood and actors, and he had some interesting opinions to say the least.

It's weird seeing Sean Hayes play straight. He comes off as wooden and insincere, like he's trying to hide something, which of course he is. Even the play's most hilarious scene, when Chuck tries to pick up a drunk woman at a bar, devolves into unintentional camp. Is it funny because of all the '60s-era one-liners, or because the woman is so drunk (and clueless) that she agrees to go home with a guy we all know is gay?



But the truth is, openly gay actors still have reason to be scared. While it's OK for straight actors to play gay (as Jake Gyllenhaal and Heath Ledger did in Brokeback Mountain), it's rare for someone to pull off the trick in reverse. De Rossi and Harris do that on TV, but they also inhabit broad caricatures, not realistic characters likes the ones in Up in the Air or even The Proposal.



As viewers, we are molded by a society obsessed with dissecting sexuality, starting with the locker-room torture in junior high school. Which is why it's a little hard to know what to make of the latest fabulous player to join Glee: Jonathan Groff, the openly gay Broadway star. In Spring Awakening, he showed us that he was a knockout singer and a heartthrob. But on TV, as the shifty glee captain from another school who steals Rachel's heart, there's something about his performance that feels off. In half his scenes, he scowls—is that a substitute for being straight? When he smiles or giggles, he seems more like your average theater queen, a better romantic match for Kurt than Rachel. It doesn't help that he tried to bed his girlfriend while singing (and writhing to) Madonna's Like a Virgin. He is so distracting, I'm starting to wonder if Groff's character on the show is supposed to be secretly gay.



Lesbian actresses might have it easier—since straight men think it's OK for them to kiss a girl and like it—but how many of them can you name? Cynthia Nixon was married to a man when she originated Miranda on Sex and the City. Kelly McGillis was straight when she steamed up Top Gun's sheets, and Anne Heche went back to dating men (including her Men in Trees costar). If an actor of the stature of George Clooney came out of the closet tomorrow, would we still accept him as a heterosexual leading man? It's hard to say. Or maybe not. Doesn't it mean something that no openly gay actor like that exists?

For some people to be so intellegent, they can come off sounding extremely ignorant sometimes.  What do you think?   Does this article have some truth to it? 

Say what you want, he is speaking the reality of Hollywood and how the world sees homosexuals. This is why we have to change our way of thinking.  It is hard for an openly gay male to survive in Hollywood with the biased opinions against him.  There is a double-standard in America when it comes to homosexuality.  We have the power to change the way Hollywood and the world sees homosexuality. 






Read More: Celebrity gossip juicy celebrity rumors Hollywood gossip blog from Perez Hilton http://perezhilton.com/page/1/#ixzz0nMXjwIol

Celebrity Juice, Not from Concentrate

Sex Addiction: Myth or Reality?

Sex addiction has been seen and heard about so many times recently as a reason behind cheating in Hollywood.  Tiger Woods, Jesse James and Charlie Sheen have all used sex addiction as a reason behind their adulterer behavior.  What do you think?  Is this just a cop out for men?  Or does it have some validity behind it?  Can you, in fact, be addicted to sex?

Wikipedia refers to sexual addiction as the phenomenon in which individuals report being unable to manage their sexual behavior. It has also been called "sexual dependency," and "sexual compulsivity."  Sex addiction was arguably made famous by doctor and tv personality Dr.  Drew Pinsky.  The argument is that sexual addiction is not a real disorder, but a result of our culture and times.  Others have labled it a real disorder that can be diagnosed and treated. 

In the world of celebrity,  sexual addiction has mainly been observed in males.  Males are generally the more sexually active of the two genders and so this new-age phenomenom is attributed to them.  There are various facilities across the United States that do treat sexual addiction through programs. 

However, where is the line drawn when it comes to who can say they have sexual addiction.  It has been, notabally, used as a defense for extramarital behavior by some in order to save face.  This phenom should not be allowed to be spread past Hollywood.  There is no such thing as sexual addiction.  We try to put a label on everything in our society and need to just realize, some people are scum and cheat on their spouses; sometimes with multiple people.  Sex is good and is probably the most natural occurence between two humans, but saying that it could be an addiction is going overboard.  What if a husband had sex with his wife numerous amounts of times instead of committing adultry, would we call that a sexual addiction?  The line has to be drawn somewere because this cannot be used as an excuse to cheat.

Grand Ol Opry Saved In Flood; Appreciating our national treasures

The circle of wood from the legendary Grand Ol' Opry stage that has survived the Nashville floods.

"We've taken it up and are taking it out for some TLC so it will be fine," Steve Buchanan, president of the Grand Ole Opry group tells PEOPLE. "We have it sequestered for special attention and then it will be back in place."

The stage has seen stars from Pasty Cline to Carrie Underwood, the past and present grace its stage.  They have already started on repairs.  The stage will not be open for months, but shows will be played in different venues around town.
We do not treasure our national, regional and local treasures enough such as the Grand Ol Opry.  Have you taken the time to explore the national treasures in your town?  There are problem hidden gems around your town or city that you don't even know about.  Visitin these not only allow you to appreciate your surroundings, but allow you to absorb the beauty and complexity of the past.  Click here to find out national historic buildings that are close to you. 
Source

Regina King Thinks Black Women Should Explore More Options Outside Their Race

Regina King has something to say about black women's biased against dating outside their race when she spoke to Vibe

Of all groups of people, Black women are the least likely group of women that will date outside of their race. When you have everyone else who is willing to explore but a Black woman is like, “I want me a brother,” well, if the brothers are out and they’re open to date everybody and the majority of Black women aren’t willing to look twice when a man outside of their race is sending them messages, then that makes our percentage rate lower and the chances of finding love, because we’re only looking in one specific place for finding love—with Black men.

Every single one of my girlfriends won’t date men that aren’t Black. I have maybe about five and these are people that I’m really considering my friends, not people that are associates or that you talk to or deal with at work. I have about five Black friends who date outside of their race. But all the other friends of mine, it’s either they vocally say that they won’t or every time an opportunity comes up for them to date outside of their race, there’s some excuse why it’s not going to work. They never really say it’s because he’s White, or because he’s Spanish or something like that. It’ll be more like, Well, you know he works at such and such, and our schedules don’t match.’ But we’ll know really what it is. It’s ’cause he’s White.

It’s more common here on the West Coast. I think in New York, you find more Black women that date outside of their race. But in L.A. not as many. I think Black women need to open up. A lot of Black women still carry a lot of pain when they see Black men with women who aren’t Black and that’s really unfortunate that that could make us so upset. It has to do with self esteem. With women on a whole, what a man thinks about us means so much to us. Does he think my hair is right? Does he think I look right? Does he think my ass is big enough? Does he think my titties are big enough?

And 9 chances out of 10, that man didn’t even give a f*ck. He couldn’t even tell that you had a pimple that day or that your hair wasn’t done. Most men don’t even give a f*ck. And the men that do that are really paying attention that hard to your ass or titties or exterior stuff, that’s probably not the best person for you anyway. One of my friends was asking me if I would set him up with one of my friends and I asked him, “What do you like in a woman?” And his first thing was “exotic.” I’m like, “What the hell does that mean?”

We don't have to say much about this, it is pretty self explanatory.