Sunshine Anderson - The Sun Shines Again

Just saw Sunshine perform this song from her new CD on the Mo'Nique Show. I know you remember "Heard It All Before". Oh, what the heck?! I'll post that one, too. Enjoy!!

Cornelious "See" Flowers: The Message, STAND

More poetry from Cornelius.

Camden, SC church to host Christmas concert

Free Times - Rant & Rave

The Free Times, a South Carolina entertainment magazine, features a section called Rant & Rave where citizens can phone in and voice their opinions in hopes that they will be quoted anonymously in print.  The following rants are excerpted from Free Times.

November 24-30, 2010

   Remember all the people who insisted two years ago that Obama didn't have enough experience to be president?  Those people should be shouting the same thing about Sarah Palin.

   Republications and conservatives spent us into a bottomless pit of debt, blamed anyone but themselves, then are seriously thinking of nominating Sarah Palin for president.  Have any of you ever read her rap sheet:  Makes Jim Bakker look like the pope.

December 8-14, 2010

   Dear Republicans: please, please, please nominate Sara Palin for president. She is exactly what this country needs:  Reassurance that in our "Can Do" country, any unqualified, quitter, moron and sellout can become president.

   A rave for Sarah Palin:  Thanks for prematurely quitting a real job where you could do some real damage and becoming a (mostly) harmless roving curiosity.  Could you help me convince Nikki [Haley] to join you?  You could be a pair of mama grizzlies "protecting" your families from afar. (Bonus: A rant to John McCain for unleashing this curiosity on an unsuspecting public.  Had you made better decisions during the campaign, you might be president now.)

   I went to the Vista and saw Bahama Mama wearing spandex.  They need to outlaw that.

Electronic Pickpocketing

Thieves never give up... they just adapt.  Electronic pickpocketing is the latest identity and credit card fraud threat. The second video gives pointers on how to prevent this from happening to you. Identity Stronghold offers protection sleeves for credit and debit cards that use RFID technology. Aluminum foil, is supposed to work as well.




 



Special thanks to my cousin Tonya for sharing this eye-opening story.

Jon B - Comfortable Swagg

I know you remember this smooth white boy from back in the day! Vanilla Soul, baby! His new CD is titled Comfortable Swagg. Jon B performed "Body Language" on the Mo'Nique show tonight. He's still got the pipes.  "Someone To Love" featuring Babyface has to be my all time favorite by him. Check it below.

Holiday weight gain meets The 17 Day Diet

Today, guests of the Dr. Phil show who have struggled to lose unwanted pounds were introduced to a new ally in their ongoing battle with the bulge. Dr. Mike Moreno jumped into the fray with his 17 Day Diet program. Noting that most people reach a plateau while dieting, a point at which they stop losing weight, Dr. Moreno asserted that this is not the case with the 17 Day Diet. In addition, it is not necessary to "trick" or "confuse" the body so that weight loss can continue.

This new program does include a cleansing phase but it does not require users to use liquids only (like juicing) or to take supplements.  Instead, dieters eat real food. The body's metabolism is reset or activated as when a weight lifting program is started. The program also incorporates a Hunger Fullness Meter to help deter dieters from over eating.

Dr. Moreno advises those who want to lose weight during the holidays to "pre-diet" by going on the 17 day cycle to drop the pounds before the holidays.  He also gave the following tips for holiday party goers.

  ---  Eat a healthy dinner before going to the party
  ---  Choose only 2-3 of the healthiest appetizers
  ---  Don't hang around the buffet table
  ---  Just say no to prepacked holiday candies and cookies

Remember that the brain takes 8-12 minutes to register what you have already consumed, so you may not feel full or satisfied with the amount of food you've eaten right away. If you are not certain that you are ready to commit to a new diet, visit the Dr. Phil website to take a quiz he's designed to help you decide.

The 17 Day Diet book is currently available only through Dr. Moreno's website, which has recipes and other helpful tools.


Happy dieting! 

Nicki Minaj - Lil Kim Beef

These two are really going at each other. Now that's what I call entertainment.

Jumping The Broom

Looks like it's a good one! Stars Angela Bassett, Paula Patton, Laz Alonso,Loretta Devine, Tasha Smith,  and DeRay Davis. Meagan Good is also featured along with Romeo Miller and Valarie Pettiford ("Big Dee Dee" from Half and Half TV sitcom).

Lisa Marie - Open and Honest

The Oprah Winfrey interview with Lisa Marie Presley on her relationship with Michael Jackson just ended.  I had planned to take notes to give a detailed account of what transpired but as a fan who still gets emotional when his untimely passing is the subject, I decided to just listen.

Of course, you will be able to view the episode on the NBC website and video clips on Oprah's website. I'll hit the highlights here. 

Lisa Marie confirmed that their marriage was real  and legitimate in every sense.  She had divorced her husband and married Michael twenty days later because they were in love.  She described being with him as "the highest high" she had ever felt.  Being around her father was the only other time she had felt such a sensation.

Although she knew that Michael would be on lots of pain medicine after leaving a certain dermatologist's office, she was told that it was necessary due to certain painful procedures regarding the vitiligo and perhaps other issues. Towards the end of the marriage she realized that he had a drug addiction. His decision to choose the people who were taking advantage of him over Lisa Marie because she was trying to get him away from them so that he could get the help he needed with the addiction led to the breakup of their marriage.  She admitted that the parallels between her father's demise and her then husband's decent were too much to handle.  It was incredulous when Oprah pointed out that the home where Michael collapsed was "just a stone's throw away" across the street from Elvis' home where he died. It is not believed that Michael even knew that about the house.

The two continued to see each other off and on for an additional four years after the divorce until she finally had to end it for good for her own sake.  Oprah asked her how she felt that within months of the divorce, Debbie Rowe was pregnant.  Surprisingly, Lisa Marie said that Michael often told her that Debbie was standing by to have the baby if Lisa Marie did not change her mind about not wanting to bring a child into their union because it had become rocky.  As one could imagine, she said that the situation was very hurtful to her.

She had a lot of regret for not reaching out to Michael prior to his death, especially since he had "thrown a line out" to her that she rejected. He had asked if she still loved him.  "I'm indifferent," was her reply.  It made him cry.  After his death, she wished that she had tried to save him though she has no idea if that would have been possible.  Michael had no problems shutting out those who dared to say no to him or who tried to make him see that the drugs and the people who supplied them were detrimental to him, including  his family who also tried to intervene. "He would just ice you out," Presley said.

Oprah asked Presley if she had ever witnessed Michael behaving inappropriately toward children and if she believed the allegations lodged against him.  The answer to both questions was a resounding "no." She added that no one really knew what happened except for Michael and his accusers so it would be unfair of her to declare that the allegations were untrue. However, she readily denied any belief of their validity.  During the "last coherent" conversation that she had with Michael, he told her that certain people were trying to kill him to gain control of his music catalog.  She declined to repeat those names.

The interview ended with Presley stating that she appreciated her husband for being so understanding and supportive over the years as she worked through the pain (and anger that she has since let go) she carried because of her love for Michael.  She also said that she will never grant another interview regarding Michael Jackson.

It seems that she is finally in a decent place where her relationship with Michael is concerned. Her depiction of him made him seem less larger than life and more closely the magnanimous, electrifying soul that drew people in like a magnet. Now that the anger is gone and the pain is manageable, she can allow her love for him to just be what it is... genuine and timeless. Trust me, Lisa Marie, his fans will always love him, too. 

Lisa Marie Presley opens up about Michael Jackson today on Oprah

People love to talk to Oprah. Perhaps they feel comfortable with her as if they're simply talking to a friend. In many cases, the grand dame of daytime TV is just having a conversation with one of her celebrity friends. Today, the celeb and friend is Lisa Marie Presley, the ex-wife of entertainment phenomenon Michael Jackson.

The interview will be the first time Lisa Marie has spoken publicly about his death. Fans will want to tune in for this one.

Also noteworthy, various media outlets have reported that Oprah interviewed Michael Jackson's parents. There has not been any mention of an air date for that one. Randy Jackson is said to be upset that the interview even took place.

It still seems unbelievable that he is gone. Visit The Official Michael Jackson website if, like me, you want a copy of Michael Jackson's Vision, the new DVD set that features all of his short films (which we refer to as videos) and 10 never released short films. He is still loved around the world!

Tyler Perry shares painful past on Oprah

Tyler Perry appeared on the Oprah show today to talk in-depth about a childhood riddled with verbal, emotional, physical and sexual abuse. Being a sickly child triggered an abnormal hatred and rage in his father who expressed it by berating and beating his son. Although his mother knew that he was being abused, she was incapable of shielding him since she was beaten and threatened constantly as well, Perry acknowledged.

His story is a powerful one and a testament to many who have suffered abuse that it is possible to overcome such tragic circumstances. Guided through his childhood torment by the exquisitely skillful interviewer and his good friend, Oprah, he told of being unnerved by the mind games his father played. In order to protect himself during brutal beatings, in his mind, he would travel to a park where he once had so much fun. After a particularly vicious beating with a vacuum cleaner hose that left large open welts, Tyler fled to his aunt Jerry's house. She grabbed a gun an confronted his father. She is the inspiration behind his Madea character. One of the saddest parts of his story has Tyler being beaten so mercilessly after his father caught him smirking at him that he could see the little boy (himself) not retreating to the park but instead running away. He said that he died that day. The beating caused him to pass out for three days.

One huge reason Tyler Perry the movie mogul agreed to lay bare his private pain is so that other men who have suffered sexual abuse as children will be able to talk about it and free themselves. At a tender age (5 or 6) his neighbor with whom he was building a bird house or cage put his hand in his pants and without fulling knowing what was happening to him, he experienced an erection. "My body betrayed me," he said. Eventually, a male nurse at the hospital where Perry had been rushed from school did the same thing to him. His third encounter with sexual abuse involved a man from his church who performed oral sex on him and used scriptures from the bible that he had undoubtedly twisted to justify his actions. There was a woman who was the mother of one of his friends who locked him in her house when he attempted to leave, put the key in her vagina and told him that he had to reach in to get it if he wanted to go home. Once he did, he had an erection and the woman pulled him into her to complete her devious plan.

When Oprah asked if he ever told anyone about the sexual abuse, he shared a disgusting story of his father teaching him at an early age that telling would only make things worse for him. A little girl whom Perry liked told him that his father had tried to touch her. One night when she was staying over, he witnessed his father come into the room and try to touch her as she lay in the bed across the room. His father retreated when Tyler turned over in his bed. Tyler told his mother. She packed up the kids and left only to return hours later. His father's physical and verbal abuse got much worse. That was the first and last time that he told.

"You expect as a child that your mother is going to protect you," Oprah said. However, he conceded that his mother was a passive person and that, coupled with the abuse that she was experiencing at the hands of his father, rendered her unable to protect him. As a result, he would spend hours in a crawl space under the house, hiding from the wrath of his own father. "Predators know when a child is an easy mark," he responded when Oprah asked how the other people knew that they could molest him and get away with it.

Perry's years of unbridled abuse caused him to struggle with his sexual identity, intimacy and relationships for a long time. He also had difficulty with issues of anger and rage. When asked how he "acted out" he revealed that he used to make everyone around him miserable, burned down a house, burned his car, and stole things.

"Your father will hear about this show. How do you feel about that?" Oprah inquired.

"I don't care," Perry declared nonchalantly but as a matter of fact. He went on to say that after exposing the abuse in an email to his legions of fans, he received this message from his father sent through his brother.

"If I had beat your ass one more time, you would have been Barack Obama."

In spite of all of the pain he has caused, Perry said that he forgave his father and actually takes care of him. He has provided him with a home and sends monthly checks to him. However, he revealed that he still harbors fear that his father might harm him and therefore refuses to have him in his life.

Oprah said more than once that Tyler Perry was taking a risk by telling such a detailed story of the abuse and degradation he has suffered. I think that he showed a tremendous amount of strength, courage, humility and high character. He has nothing to fear from his fans except an outpouring of love and support that will only be surpassed by their appreciation for giving them the inspiration that they need to tell their own stories.

Predators hide in the dark. That dark, secret place is also their stronghold. It sustains their power and allows them to operate unchecked. It's time for victims to put them in the spotlight so that they will not have the power to hurt anyone else.

Perry's tenth movie, For Colored Girls, will be premiering in November. Join Oprah and Tyler on November 5, 2010 for a special show in which her studio will be filled with 200 men who want to share their stories, how it has changed their lives, and hopefully to heal.

Shemar Moore on Mo'Nique Show

Thank you, Mo'Nique! I know droves of women are sharing that sentiment because we appreciate you having Shemar Moore in the penthouse.

Mo' gave her list of sexy brothers...

Michael Jackson, Sugar Ray Leonard, Franco Harris and Shemar Moore

Here's my list...

Dwayne Johnson, Vin Diesel, Shemar Moore, Morris Chestnut and Terrence Howard

Who's on yours?

Real Housewives of Atlanta... NeNe is back and so is the drama!!

It must be sizzlin' in Hotlanta right now because NeNe Leakes is back to her old self and she is bringing the drama. When she rolled up on Dwight in the first episode of the new season and gave it to him full blast, I knew that we as fans are in for a treat that we will savor like a sinful piece of chocolate. I am glad that they resolved their issues, though. Dwight looked pretty broken up about it. Hey, is it just me or has anyone else noticed that each time NeNe has had a falling out with one of her friends, it's because of something Kim said? Think back to last season when NeNe and Sheree were at odds. Um hum. Wendy Williams announced on her show last week that NeNe and her hubby are divorcing. Way to spoil it, Wendy since that episode hasn't aired, yet. It's cool. That's why we watch your show... for the hot, gooey gossip. Just don't do it again.

Speaking of Sheree, she seems happier this season. Good for her. She and NeNe gave good advice to their children. Her argument that she is not Dwight's friend so it makes no sense that he would spend $30,000 on her fashion show seems on point to me. Come on, Sheree, give us a little more to talk about.

Dwight's friend did not help matters when they spoke with Sheree. Paying a seamstress and making copies of fliers and whatever surely did not amount to that much paper. They looked like fools. Dwight... is it true that you can't breathe through your nose?

It's apparent that Kim likes pretty boys. But... you're wasting your time when they're all gay. They don't want you. By the way, you shouldn't want them, either. Nothing against people of the gay persuasion, but it was ridiculous that she was falling all over them and even asked a few if they were gay. Maybe she was just playing.

Kandi is a really good friend to Kim. She is supporting her fully. And Kandi's so right, she needs to be paid if she helps Kim with another song. Hey, Kandi, call me when you're ready to check out my lyrics. Seriously. I'm good!

The supermodel seems very down to earth. She should figure out why she's so afraid to commit before making it official with her man. It's a lot easier to get married than it is to get divorced if it doesn't work out. Counseling is not a dirty word.

What happened to Lisa Wu-Hartwell? Bravo could have kept her around a bit longer. We liked her husband, I mean her. LOL. I guess the nice girls who don't contribute to the drama get cut. I'm sure she and DeShawn Snow will be fine. All the best, ladies!

Can't wait til next Monday for the next episode!

Denzel Washington --- Unstoppable

BET is showing Mo' Better Blues right now. That was the young Denzel... cocky, cool and sexy as hell. He's a bit older in Unstoppable but he's still good eye candy! I loved him in Devil in a Blue Dress. Aw heck, I love him in pretty much anything. Ladies, join me in a salute to this fine brother
.

Denzel, Denzel
Still sexy as hell
A little older now but that's okay
If you want to come out, I'm willing to play!

Hey, you've got your fantasy and I've got mine.

90's R&B group Intro

My friend Yolanda and I were reminiscing about our days at Ft. Bragg when she told me that Intro's lead singer, the late Kenny Green, was in her unit and loved to sing to her all the time. I thought I'd see if there were any videos on Youtube and I was in luck. Greene had crazy talent (singer, songwriter, arranger, etc.) Click on the Youtube link to watch other videos and view their first interview with Donnie Simpson on Video Soul. Enjoy! 

Dirty Words: Increasing a woman's sexual arousal with Zestra

SEX.  Girls, can we talk about it? I can! Come join me or just read along silently.

Viagra, Levitra, Cialis... male erectile dysfunction.  No one seems to mind that commercials taunting drugs that help men achieve sexual satisfaction are shown constantly but the women who created Zestra for women can't buy advertising slots.

I watch Nightline from time to time and was surprised to see an interview revealing that Zestra is not widely advertised because the major networks are too squeamish to allow the advertisements to air even after requested changes to the language of the ads, which were already tame, were made.

What's the problem?  Is it because women are mothers, daughters, sisters and dear old aunties that no one wants to see a commercial presenting a product that gives them sexual healing? Are men the only ones allowed to speak openly about problems that decrease their libido and solutions to those problems?  Unfortunately, the answer seems to be "Yes."

Thanks to shows like Nightline, The View and Rachael Ray taking an interest, the company is finally getting the publicity it deserves and literally couldn't buy before. Just like men, women have health conditions that inhibit their ability to experience a satisfying sex life.  And like men, they want to be able to have great sex and mind blowing orgasms again.  There should be no shame in that.  Humans are sexual creatures.  It's natural, people!  If Zestra helps to accomplish that, show the ads all day long... just like they do for Viagra and the others.

Ladies, you can get a free sample of Zestra (you pay shipping and handling) and sign up for a $5.00 coupon. The website has information on conditions that adversely affect a woman's sexuality and ways to increase sexual desire.  Zestra is not a medication but is all natural -- botanical oils and extracts.  Get your groove on; bring your sexy back, free your inner freak!  Get yourself some Zestra, girl and don't worry about the prudes who are trying to keep us in the dark about it.

Bishop Eddie Long --- It's Your Time... to be truthful about who you really are

Embattled mega church leader Bishop Eddie Long spoke to his congregation regarding the allegations that he coerced several young men from the worship center into sexual relationships. Long stated that while he never portrayed himself as a perfect man, he is not the man the media portrays. He also compared himself to David in the fight against Goliath.  Promising to fight "vigorously", Long warned that he has five stones, none of which he has thrown.

The New Birth Baptist Church congregation erupted in thunderous applause in support of their pastor.  Those willing to speak to reporters upon leaving the service said that they believed Bishop Long and would stand by him.


CNN anchor Fredricka Whitfield spoke with CNN correspondent Martin Savidge  about Long's speech as well as Shayne Lee, author of  Holy Mavericks, and Craig Washington, writer for The Root.   It seemed that all three felt that Long spoke with a lack of conviction and did not make a clear declaration of innocence.  Lee was the most outspoken in his belief that this is the beginning of Long's downfall as leader of the 25,000 member church.

Even before watching Long's televised speech to his parishioners, it has been my opinion that the young men who have bravely come forward to reveal their ordeal are telling the truth and Bishop Long should stand boldly on the truth of who he really is, a smart, calculating, and patient pedophile who waited until his prey was of the age of consent to avoid criminal charges. His speech only served to further cement my beliefs.  

Those reading this post will undoubtedly accuse me of being judgmental. Absolutely! As a pastor, this man has stood in judgment of people every Sunday telling them what actions and methods of living are sinful and instructing them on how to conduct themselves.  Why should he not be held accountable and to a higher standard given his position as a leader? He knew from the moment he conceived the notion of taking advantage of those young men that he was in violation of  the very religious teachings he so charismatically belted out weekly.  He knew in his heart, where no man can hide from his true self, that he enjoyed the same homosexual activity that he so loudly declared to be morally and religiously wrong. It is simply ludicrous to think that the same biblical principles and societal customs should not be adhered to by Bishop Long.  

And yes, I said that those young men are brave... because they are. Who are they in the eyes of society?  Have you ever heard their names mentioned before this report was made public?  Still, they were willing to subject themselves to untold scrutiny, anger, and ostracism to take on a man with a tremendous public platform who has more wealth, powerful connections, and influence than they may even dare dream of having in their lifetime. Yet, they came forward to expose a well insulated predator. They should be celebrated by responsible parents everywhere.  
  
I am the parent of a teenage male and if we were members of that church, I would be actively questioning him as to whether or not he was ever approached by this pastor in the manner described in the lawsuits.  As parents, we sometimes focus so much on having our children become independent and self-sufficient that we unwittingly throw them to the wolves presenting themselves as sheep (or in this case, shepherds) to our society.  We need to realize that it is not a crime to be an active participant in our child's life.  Rather, it is a necessity to protect them from the wolves of humanity waiting for the opportunity to devour them. Instead of being there for Bishop Long, the members of his congregation should be standing with these men on their treacherous journey in search of justice, the release of the burden and pain endured over the years under the weight of such a heavy secret and the ever elusive peace of mind.

I challenge the members of New Birth Missionary Baptist Church to be judgmental and demanding of their bishop in defense of children in their congregation.  Save them from the monster in the $4,000 suit as they are too naive and vulnerable to protect themselves.  It is your duty as a parent, as an official of the church, or even just as an adult who is better equipped to stand in opposition of another adult.  The church should be a refuge instead of the hostile environment it's leader has turned it into for those men.

Please read "A Sermon for Bishop Eddie Long" by Craig Washington.  I came across it as I searched for applicable links for my own post.  He is a far better writer than I and puts forth a compelling case for church goers everywhere to refrain from idolizing pastors.  They are as human as the rest of us. While that is often spoken as a first defense for their immoral, criminal or just plain bad behavior, it is not a viable excuse to allow them to remain on a pedestal after they've severely abused their position and power while their victims continue to be abused by the unfair judgment and condemnation heaped upon them because they dare to try to pull back the veil and reveal the identity of their tormentor.  And torment is what these men will endure for years to come even if their allegations are proven and upheld in court.  Are you standing by and protecting the predator? 



Bishop Long, it's your time... time to be truthful about who you really are and what you've done. You've been called out and you know that you cannot stand on a lie.  If you used your power, influence, and wealth to betray your duties as the church bishop and prod young, impressionable and vulnerable teenagers to engage in homosexual activity with you, you need to be the leader and man you claim to be and own it. It's time.

QuietStorm - I Cry

QuietStorm is a poet and spoken word artist who is deliriously talented.  He has a new book titled "Expressions of Thought" which has sold out at Amazon but is still available at Lulu.   Check out more of his work at ReverbNation.  Enjoy!



 

Woman's boyfriend tortures 4-year-old daughter

More than once on this blog, I've posed the question to parents, "Do you know who's watching your child?" Headlines like the one above require that parents be more diligent about scrutinizing the people with whom they leave their children for any significant amount of time.

In Johnston County, NC, a 4-year-old girl is in critical condition because of head trauma, injuries indicative of sexual abuse, bites, and bruises and abrasions that cover her small body. She was left in the care of her mother's boyfriend of six months while the woman reported to the Army Reserves for training in New Mexico.

Seasoned investigators involved in the case stated that they had never seen such pervasive abuse before. Jonathan Douglas Richardson, 21, of Smithfield, is being held in the Johnston County jail on $1 million bond for felony child abuse with severe bodily injury.

The child's mother was contacted and she returned home.

Usually, I try not to be too judgmental, but not in this case.  The woman moved into a BARN in the back of this man's parents' home with her 4-year-old daughter after knowing him for six months.  What?!  Are you kidding me?  Where is the little girl's father? Why was this child not left in the care of her father? He must not have been involved in his daughter's life.  Shame on him.  I haven't walked in this mother's shoes so I don't want to be too harsh but her focus should have been on what's best for her daughter.  Her judgment of this man's character seems to be extremely lacking.  Personally, I would never leave a female child with a male who is not her father and I would be hesitant to leave her with the father for more than a few minutes because of the amount and type of data on child abuse.  Sadly, most children are abused by someone they know and should be able to trust.

In fairness to men, I should point out that some women sexually abuse children as well.  It's ludicrous that somehow society sees this as a lucky situation when it involves a young male with an older female.  It is still abuse and is as confusing, detrimental, demoralizing, and devastating as it is for a young girl. We should be just as outraged when it happens to a boy as when it happens to a girl.  Children should be able to grow up without abuse of any kind scarring their lives.

Parents are the shield that protects their children from the world.  Parents must ensure the safety of their children.  It is a duty inherent with the decision to bring a child into the world. 

Who did you leave your child with today?  Can you trust him or her as much as you thought you could?  Ask your child questions when you get them back into the safety of your care.  Assure them that they can tell you if anyone has touched them inappropriately or said or done anything that made them feel uncomfortable or afraid, even if the person has told them not to tell.  Sometimes children are threatened about what will happen if they tell and sometimes they are lulled into a false belief that what the perpetrator is doing to them is okay, normal, and just their innocent little secret.  As the parent and protector, you have to keep an open dialogue with your child and be more convincing than the bad guy so that your child trusts you instead of the person who is harmful. 


Parents, your child's protection, safety, security are based on the choices you make. Make them the right choices as often as you can.

Links to child safety websites:


National Center for Missing & Exploited Children: Resources for Parents & Guardians

Polly Klaas Foundation: Keeping Children Safe  (this site offers a free child safety kit)


America's Security Products Mall: Child Safety Devices

Joran van der Sloot ... A Reminder of the Need for Personal Protection

Joran van der Sloot has long been thought to be the person who ended the promising life of American teen Natalee Holloway. Now he is accused of murdering another young woman, Stephany Flores while in Peru. The suspect gave several different accounts of what happened the night Holloway disappeared but has reportedly confessed to battering Flores in a fit of anger after she found a connection to him and Natalee.

Since the disappearance of Natalee Holloway, whose body has never been recovered, allegations of van der Sloot preying on young female tourists who visit Aruba have flourished. He has been characterized as a predator who hid behind the power of a father who was a judge. The elder van der Sloot passed away, perhaps making his son more vulnerable to making mistakes and getting caught. NBC's Dateline profiled van der Sloot tonight. Dateline has updated the case reporting that van der Sloot has finally confessed to killing Natalee Holloway.

On ABC, 20/20 focused on the rape and murder of angel-faced 3-year-old, Riley Fox. The little girl was taken from her home while her father slept and her mother was away.



These are but a few in the numerous instances of violent acts against women and children that often result in their deaths. It is my opinion that predators are born. More often than not, they are not candidates for rehabilitation but are repeat offenders who will never stray from their abusive, menacing behavior.

As a society, we have to become proactive in our efforts to defend ourselves from these types of criminals. Equipping our homes with alarms is a good start but chances are, an intruder can be in and out before the police ever arrive. Other methods of protection should be considered. Statistics show an increase in the number of women choosing to arm themselves with firearms. Some people are uncomfortable with that idea. Additional options, such as tasers and stun guns are available as well. Each individual should consult law enforcement in his or her jurisdiction to confirm that possession of such items is legal. A self-defense course could be another option if any are held in your area.  Also, if you have young children, you may want to consider personal alarms  or other safety devices for them.

Ladies, if you must be out at night, try not to go alone. Always be aware of your surroundings to make sure no unsavory characters are lurking around or watching you. Lock your car doors and do not label your address as "home" if you use a navigation device. If it's stolen, it can lead the thieves to your house. Keep your home alarm system turned on during the daytime as well as at night. Above all, use common sense.  Remember, that handsome smile and suave demeanor could be masking your worst nightmare.

New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie's Straight Talk

Sy Smith - Conflict

Sy Smith, a background singer on American Idol, chatted with Mo'Nique about her CD, Conflict, and performed Fly Away with Me. Check it out along with The Art of You.  Your ears will thank you!

To NOT kill a Mockingbird

Sleep problems stem from many different reasons.  I have more than one but the most interesting is called Mockingbird Syndrome.  Okay, that's not a real issue.  I made it up.  However, it can cause real health concerns for those of us who are already sleep deprived and this tiny creature adds to the problem.  How can a bird hamper a human's sleep process?  It sings!  No, no... not the ones who sing at daybreak.  This lovely little devil sings at night.  All night!!!  It has many different calls and it shares it's large repertoire usually beginning at 2:00 a.m.  Occasionally,  some have begun earlier.  And when they tag-team and one repeats the other's call, it's double trouble.  Did I tell you that it sings all night?  Well, it's worth repeating.  Granted, the calls are varied, interesting and cute, at first.  The next night, it's annoying.  By the end of the week, it's so irritating, you're tempted to go find the bird, grab it by it's tiny little throat, squeeze hard and break the beak just to make sure it can't sing anymore.  Then, reality sets in... it's late and dark (really dark) and the mockingbird is not the only creature that thrives at that hour in the deep, deep darkness.  The eight-legged freaks are out there, too.  So, you can't go find the bird, grab it by it's tiny little throat, squeeze hard and break the beak just to make sure it can't sing anymore.  Instead, you turn up the volume on your T.V. a bit and  put the pillow over your head and pray that the bird moves on to a tree outside of someone else's bedroom window.  Heck, the damn tree isn't even in my yard.  It's the neighbor's tree. At 2:00 a.m., it may as well be my tree because that singing bird is my problem.  Some nights, I watch the sun come up because so does the bird, singing all the while.  Mockingbirds are protected by law, hence the title of this post, "To NOT kill a Mockingbird." Besides, I like birds.  They come in so many pretty colors and have such varied looks and they can fly!  But, I don't want one singing incessantly outside my window at 2:00 a.m.  It even has a call that is reminiscent of someone screaming, car alarms, and all sorts of what nots. Here's a Youtube video to help you understand what I'm ranting about if you've never experienced it yourself.  This bird's sleep schedule has to be upside down.  Birds are supposed to delight us with their melodious voices in the freaking daytime! Ahhhh, if only I had wings to fly myself somewhere else until the bird shut up.  Until then, I'll work on getting to sleep before he or she gets to singing.  Wish me luck!

Mo'Nique featured Sunday's Best... Y'anna Crawley

I had seen a few previews of the BET Gospel competition called Sunday Best but I have never watched it.  Thanks to Friday night's episode of The Mo'Nique Show, I was able to witness the sensational Sunday Best season two winner, Y'anna Crawley.  Believe me when I tell you, this woman SANG!!  She reminds me of the one of my all time favorites, Aretha Franklin.  Y'anna also sang Heaven with Tina Campbell of MaryMary. I couldn't find a video post of Y'anna's Mo'Nique Show performance but this one is just as If you've already seen her perform, you know what I'm talking about.  If not, I'm sure you'll enjoy it as much as I did.  Take a listen!




 

"A Night of Star Studded Soul" Featuring Morris Day and The Time and En Vogue

The South Carolina Legislative Black Caucus' Annual Gala will be held on May 1, 2010.  Guests will be treated to "A Night of Star Studded Soul" with a concert sure to delight fans of old school R&B.  Morris Day and The Time will perform signature songs like What Time Is It?, The Bird, Cool, Gigolos Get Lonely Too, 777-9311, Fishnet, The Walk and Jungle Love.  One of my personal favorites is "Don't Wait For Me" so, I'm hoping to hear it.

The Funky Divas themselves, En Vogue, will be on hand to thrill the audience with their exquisite voices.  They are one of the most vocally talented girl groups ever!  Their string of hits include Hold On, Don't Go, Give It Up Turn It Loose, Lies, Don't Let Go (Love), Giving Him Something He Can Feel and Yesterday.

Aaron Hall, formerly Guy, is coming to serenade the ladies with sultry tunes such as I Miss You, Don't Be Afraid and When You Need Me.


Jazz guitarist Terence Young, who performed at last year's gala, returns by popular demand to allow the folks to Experience his Healing for the Soul.  Terence is simply genius with a guitar.

Don't Get It Twisted because high spirited performer Pressha of  Splackavellie fame will be there to host and entertain like only he can.  He kept the audience engaged and on its feet at the 2009 gala.

A reception will be held prior to the concert and the event takes place at the Carolina Coliseum on Saturday, May 1, 2010.  Tickets are available online 24 hours a day or by phone, 803.251.2222, between the hours of 9:00 a.m - 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday.

For additional information, please contact The South Carolina Legislative Black Caucus at 803.734.3041 or www.sclbc.org.

See you there!

Girlfriends' Get Together: Tyler Perry's "Why Did I Get Married Too?"

This weekend, April 2, 2010, groups of women will be getting together for a bite to eat and to view Tyler Perry's latest movie, Why Did I Get Married Too. Of course, the men will be going out to ride the emotional roller coaster Perry creates in this film because they enjoy his work as well. However, the theater is generally filled with women who are there with their sisters, mothers, daughters and even grandmothers who don't mind talking to the characters on screen as if they can hear them. And they clap for scenes that really strike a chord with them. To be sure, a good time is had by all... so much so that the audience remains seated to watch the outtakes. If you have not seen Why Did I Get Married?, you have time to watch it before the sequel hits the theaters this weekend. You'll love it as much as the rest of us did. Really.



The movie features Janet Jackson, Malik Yoba, Tasha Smith, Jill Scott, Sharon Leal, Lamman Rucker, Richard T. Jones,Michael J. White, Cicely Tyson, Louis Gossett Jr., and Tyler Perry.

Writers, there's still time to enter the NPR Fiction contest!

Visit NPR for more details. Happy writing!

Andre Pitre

I just saw this fine brother, Andre Pitre, on The Mo'Nique Show on BET. The "Southern Gentleman" says he's single ladies. Mo knows that chocolate this smooth and delicious will keep the sisters coming back for another bite. Yeah. Check out the video for his debut single, Your Name.

Tiger's ready to roar. Does anyone care?

After many weeks of silence and hiding out, golfer extraordinaire Tiger Woods is ready to speak publicly about his infamous love life. Does anyone really care to hear what he has to say?

According to reports, Woods will be apologizing publicly before a small group that will include family, friends, and select media outlets. My opinion about his extra marital affairs is the same as it was about all the other high profile figures who have spoken publicly about such issues... that's between the golfer and his wife. As far as this member of the public is concerned, Elin has to deal with it in whatever way she chooses. The public is not married to Tiger and his dalliances with other women have no bearing on us.

Some may pose the following question. What about the fact that he pretended to have such a squeaky clean image in public while secretly serving it up to woman after woman for years? Don't put public figures on pedestals. Whether they are Hollywood celebrities, sports stand-outs, or political powerhouses, they are simply human just like the rest of us. Yes, they managed to take a talent and parlay it into a lucrative career that garnered them lots of attention, but at the end of the day they are just people.

Everyone knows some guy or other who has had countless women in and out of his bed. Most likely, he had affairs for a long time before the wife found out about his philandering. It's the same with Tiger with the exception that he was able to keep it under cover a lot more easily because he had the financial means to buy discretion and silence. If he had taken a different route and provided the mistress who spoke up with the money she requested, it's likely that his play house would still be standing.

So, what have we learned from Tiger's story? Cheaters... sometimes you have to pay to continue to play. However, the dirt you've done in the dark will eventually find daylight. Fans... don't be a fanatic because the celebrities you admire are just like you but luckier.

By the way, if you are interested in hearing the Tiger roar, tune in to his press conference on Friday, February 19th at 11:00 a.m. Although Mr. Woods' skills are very impressive, this member of the public is not a fan of golf or its players and therefore, was never disappointed by the fact that he turned out to be a mere man after all.

Happy New Year!

Greetings! The new year has arrived, closing the door on a very turbulent 2009. Last year brought us quite a bit to contend with... horrific natural disasters, terrorist attacks, economic chaos and instability, unthinkable crimes like senseless murders of young children, record unemployment and even the shocking death of one of music's most celebrated icons. That was last year.

Today is the beginning of a new year, indeed, a new decade. Many of us have made resolutions whether we fully intend to keep them or not. Some have not the hope needed to inspire them to attempt to embrace a new resolve. The country continues to struggle to make it's way out of the pit created over the previous 8 years and worsened during the past year, depending upon which side of the story you believe.

Personally, I have not made any resolutions for 2010. Unfortunately, I must admit that I'm one of those people who forget all about the promise I made to myself if I haven't accomplished it within 2 or 3 months. However, I do have hope. Hope for a better year, a better life and a better country. I hope that the politicians who say to us what we want to hear while they are begging for our votes abandon the political rivalries and personal agendas in favor of doing what is best for the people whom they have promised to serve and assist. I hope that those who are suffering the most because of job loss, being homeless, fighting a catastrophic or chronic illness (which is often times the same thing), fighting a relentless enemy overseas while on a 3rd deployment in a war that seems to have no end, or have some other struggle that is overwhelming, find some semblance of peace, happiness and prosperity. I hope for the best for everyone.

Did you make a resolution this year? What do you hope for in 2010? How will you make it happen?

You don't have to have all the answers right now. You do need faith and perseverance. Hold on to your dreams and work on making them come true often and relentlessly. It may take a little longer than you would like for that dream to come to fruition, but if you give up, it never will.

Let me tell you a short story. My mother decided that she was going to grow an apple tree from seeds from an apple from the grocery store. I didn't think she could grow an apple tree from seeds in the dry, dusty yard devoid of rich soil. She planted the seeds and watered them faithfully. Sure enough, a tree began to grow. I was probably in my early teens at the time. I grew older as did the tree. Once it was full grown, we waited to see if it would bear fruit. I moved away, joined the Army, and came home to find that the tree still had no fruit. Still, Mom tended the tree as if it yielded fruit enough to make her proud. Though I can't tell you when it finally happened, that tree has been full of small green apples every year now for some time right there in the same soil that seemed so non-conducive to such a task. My mother made her little dream of growing her own apple tree come true by fertilizing and watering it and never giving up on it. She has a peach tree beside the apple tree now that she grew in the same manner.

If you've planted a seed for something good and worthwhile, I hope and pray that it grows and bears fruit. Let's make 2010 the year our dreams bear fruit due to our continued cultivation of them. May peace, joy, and prosperity be yours in over abundance! Be blessed.

P.S. Check out Star Jones' 2010 Resolution Handbook on her blog. I like it.