Mary J. Blige on Rachael Ray

In case you missed the April 22, 2009 episode of the Rachael Ray show, someone posted it on Youtube (I knew someone would!). Mary will be starring in the Tyler Perry movie, I Can Do Bad All By Myself along with Taraji P. Henson. She also said that she will be finishing her next music CD soon. Mary shared her beauty secrets... pampering herself with products from Carol's Daughter. She and company founder, Lisa Price, went into the kitchen with Rachael to whip up a Grapefruit & Lemongrass Sea Salt scrub.

Jennifer Hudson and Jennifer Holliday in ATL

A fan posted this video on Youtube of Divas Jennifer Hudson and Jennifer Holliday performing "And I Am Telling You" together during a concert in Atlanta, GA on April 16, 2009. Hudson is on tour with Robin Thicke. Enjoy!

Competitive Pole Dancing

Just when you think you've heard it all, someone comes up with competitive pole dancing. According to Inside Edition, it's being considered as an addition to the Olympic games. A quick Google search of the phrase turns up link after link to blogs about the new "sport" complete with pictures and videos. Check out the Facebook petition aimed at getting pole dancing into the 2012 Olympics. Hey, it takes skill to balance one's self on a pole! And do you see how thin those women are? Pole dancing is entertaining, a financial vehicle for performers and a heck of a fitness program to boot! Go for it, girls! If I could do it, I'd swing from a pole, too. Hell, yeah!!



Aw, come on! What kind of blogger would I be if I didn't provide pics and video footage when available? Before you decide not to watch, ladies it's impressive. You might be saying "Dayum! I gotta get me one of those!" It was my first thought. I'm just sayin'...

Woman in Prank Domino's Video is Sex Offender

Kristy Hammonds is a registered sex offender who pleaded guilty to participating in an illicit act with a 14-year old girl. Hammonds is the woman who filmed Michael Setzer in various disgusting acts with food he was preparing at a Domino's Pizza in North Carolina.

The young girl was sexally abused by Hammonds during a four month period. Click here to read the article posted on The Smoking Gun website. There is also a link to the plea agreement documentation on the site that reflects Hammonds' married name, Thompson.

Marking the 2nd anniversary of Va. Tech Tragedy

Thousands marked the second anniversary of the day Seung-Hui Cho took the lives of 32 students at Virginia Tech. Many other students were injured. Click here to read the full article.





Never Good-bye

On April 16, 2007, an unfathomable, horrific and stunning tragedy
Visited the Virginia Tech campus quite unexpectedly
A troubled soul decided to end his secret pain
By targeting innocent, unsuspecting students and faculty in a murderous reign

We cannot imagine what it was like for the victims as we were not there
But for all those left behind, we are here... your lingering burden from this crisis to share
With thirty two beautiful lives prematurely snatched into non-surrendered sleep
How could we not grieve with you? Indeed, our hearts weep

To the families and friends of the students and professors so callously taken away
That you are blessed to walk in God’s grace, mercy and peace, we pray
To the surviving students, faculty and staff, continue to find strength through
your faith and Hokie pride
Knowing that a concerned nation prays for you and stands by your side

One dark hearted man made the cost of an education too high... deplorable and
devastatingly true
But he could not steal your essence and memory. They are nestled safely in the
hearts of those who love you
And just as you shined in your earthly life, you will illuminate the heavenly sky
We yield to a reluctant, bittersweet parting but we will never say good-bye

Sunida E. York © Copyright 2007-2009 All Rights Reserved

Sexting: Teen trend explored on today's Dr. Phil show

Parents, in case you've missed all of the other shows aimed at educating you on the latest teen craze called sexting, you'll want to tune in or Tivo Dr. Phil today. Sexting is the act of sending nude or sexual photos via the cell phone or other electronic devices. Tyra, GMA, and Today have all had segments on the topic.

This seemingly fun and harmless activity has landed some teens in jail on child pornography charges. Once convicted, the offender must register as a sex offender. This type of charge can be leveled whether the teen sends or receives the photo(s) in some cases.




In addition to the legal issues, some of the teenagers find themselves in the cross hairs of those who enjoy ridiculing others. One young woman hanged herself because of the overwhelming and negative attention she encountered after a nude photo of her made the rounds through her high school.

Dr Phil devotes today's show to educating parents on the dangers of sexting. Parents routinely assume that their child would never be involved in sexting and other dangerous trends teenagers engage in but most of the parents who have been interviewed on other shows regarding the subject admit to being mistaken with sometimes dire consequences.

This is your chance to learn about the practice of sexting so that you can intervene, if necessary, before your child makes a mistake that cannot be undone. Sometimes children have to be protected from themselves and the peer pressure they face daily.

Wired Safety is a website offering simple tips to parents designed to protect kids. As the Good Morning America episode revealed, even pre-teen children are taking shocking pictures and videos and forwarding them with their cell phones or other electronic devices.

Dr. Parry Aftab of Wired Safety has offered the following suggestions for parents.

Google: your child's first and last name in quotes Ex: "Jane Doe"
search screen names and address as well
your child's cell phone number in quotes Ex: "555-123-1212"
"Google Desktop" Download free software
Look for *avi for videos and *gpg for images
Visit www.wiredsafety.com and www.getgamesmart.com for other tips

Most importantly, parents should have a frank discussion with their children and discuss the pitfalls of sexting.



In related news, Oprah will be interviewing 14-year old children who claim that they are ready to have sex.

Domino's Workers arrested after tampering with food.

Michael Anthony Setzer, 32, and Kristy Lynn Hammonds,31, laughed it up as Setzer stuffed cheese up his nose and played with salami near his behind while Hammonds recorded the nasty video. The two tampered with food as they made sandwhiches that Hammands claimed would be delivered to unsuspecting customers at a Domino's Pizza in Conover, NC and posted the disgusting video on Youtube.


Both workers were fired and arrested. They were charged with distributing prohibited foods. The video has since been removed from Youtube. The video also showed Setzer sneezing over a sandwich and appearing to bury a "bugger" from his nose in the sandwich. He also pulled down his pants, wiped a sponge over his rear end, and then washed dishes and utensils with the soiled sponge. Viewers cringed as reporters showed the video. It's enough to make anyone rethink eating out for a while.

Hammonds was still in custody at the Catawba County jail as of Wednesday night while Setzer was released on a $7,500 bond.

A Domino's spokesperson said that the company found no evidence that the unsanitary sandwiches were delivered to customers. Tim McIntyre also said the company is considering a lawsuit.

Domino's CEO Patrick Doyle posted a video response to the prank assuring customers that the restaurant had been sanitized thoroughly. According to Doyle, hiring practices are being revisited to prevent people like Hammonds and Setzer from being hired in the future.

Jaime Foxx Apologizes on Tonight Show

During an appearance on the Tonight Show, Jaime Foxx apologized to Miley Cyrus for the comments he made about her on his satellite radio show, the Foxxhole. Jay Leno asked Foxx about the incident and said that he knew it had been bothering him. Click here to watch the full episode or choose the chapter(s) you want to watch.

Foxx said he's a comedian and doesn't mean any of the things he says. He also said that the jokes were taken out of context and blown out of proportion; so, he wanted to nip it in the bud.

I'm glad he stepped up and apologized.

Adam Lambert Owns American Idol Season 8!

Adam Lambert has had control of the American Idol stage since he let out the first note. Last week, I became convinced that the final two will come down to Lambert and the 16-year old sensation that is Allison Iraheta. Both happen to be from Los Angeles, CA. Lambert has owned season eight from the beginning. Even my son, who never bothers to watch Idol, has been turning up to watch him perform. Initially, he thought that Idol was pulling a fast one by planting a professional performer in the contest. This guy is clearly in a category all by himself. And he's such a pretty boy! I love it.



Obviously, all of the contestants are very talented. Otherwise, they never would have made it this far. I had high hopes for many of them, even some of those who have departed. But, it is what it is. And that would be a contest. Somebody has to be eliminated tomorrow. I am more than a little concerned for Lil Rounds and Kris Allen. Matt Giraud may be teetering on the edge as well. Barring a miracle, I stand by my prediction that the final battle will be fought by Iraheta and Lambert with Lambert winning hands down.

Jaime Foxx Berates Miley Cyrus

Jaime Foxx and his crew at the Foxxhole, his satellite radio show, launched into an expletive laced tirade about teen Disney star, Miley Cyrus, after a listener called in to complain about Cyrus dissing the band Radio Head. Click here to listen to the audio.



First, Foxx asked who Cyrus was, as if he didn't know. I'm not a fan of the young Cyrus, but everyone knows who the kid is by now because her image and music are everywhere. Then, he proceeded to make fun of her gums... too much gum and small teeth. Cyrus was called a "white bitch" ... did we have to go there with the race issue? We'd be enraged if a white person called one of our sistas a "black bitch" in a public forum. Foxx and friends said that she should "grow up and make a sex tape" (with her dad, someone chimed in). In addition, they said that 16-year old Miley should do drugs and "catch chlamydia from a bicycle seat"!




Foxx's comments are so distasteful because he is 41... much too old to come at a teen aged girl like that, especially since he has a teen aged daughter of his own. Had someone spoken about his child like that, I'm sure he'd want to fight (or kill, even). I realize that he is a comedian and is expected to say outlandish things to keep his fans tuned in, but come on, Jaime. Really? Like that?

American girls have bad enough images about themselves. Young ladies should be respected and taught to respect and love themselves. They should never be degraded in such an offensive manner. And think of the example that you're setting for young men who look up to you! I think you made quite a misstep, Mr. Foxx. I've always admired your tremendous talent to make us laugh through your comedy, move us with your music, and engage us with your acting ability. You're already on top, baby! There's no need to put this child down to pull yourself up even higher.

I don't even understand why the verbal attack took place. Are you close to the Radio Head band? What? Is Miley Cyrus not allowed to be disappointed because she was denied permission to meet them backstage? She probably should have kept her opinion of that incident to herself; but, still, she is entitled to voice her hurt and anger regardless of how overly ambitious her desire to "ruin" their career happened to be.

This was beneath you, Jaime. I hope someone will be able to post an audio of you apologizing. Are you man enough?

BTW, I did a post on this very subject (an adult demeaning a child) 27Jan08. I'm reposting the poem I included for those who need a refresher.


No Shame in My Name

Most of us answer to the name given to us at birth
Never equating it to our feelings of self worth
But what happens when we are called by the name of something
we could never be?
The result is that it slowly chips away at our image inwardly
Whether accosted in public or behind closed doors with a name less than adorable
The use of such a demeaning form of censure is simply deplorable
A young girl being called a “heifer” during her formative years
Will most likely be left with the “I’m not good enough” doubts and fears
And the “B word” is bantered about so effortlessly
That its use easily survives through multiple generations of the family tree
We all know the names young men are called, so they won’t be repeated here
The devastating effects are seen in their lack of respect for self and
others… it’s crystal clear
Let’s raise the next generation of children with love and respect, starting now
Don’t allow yourself to refer to any woman, young or old, as a cow
Refrain from equating people to animals or words intended solely to shame
When you refer to yourself, speak to and about others, and talk to
your children, call each person by his name
Allow love, acceptance, care and understanding to undulate in your
tone and sparkle in your eyes
You may not see an immediate effect but it will take root in their
souls and eventually rise
In turn, our children will learn to treat themselves and others they
encounter well throughout life
Begin the process at home. Never treat the stranger in the street
better than you treat your child, your husband, your wife
There are no human heifers, no human female dogs, and no
fatherless male child who should hang his head in shame
We claim to want the world to be a better place… let’s start by
calling each person by his or her rightful name


Sunida E. York © 2008 All Rights Reserved

Simon Cowell Leaving American Idol?

Bloggers are buzzing about the nasty rumor that Simon Cowell is quitting American Idol. Cowell is rumored to be unable to keep pace with his hectic schedule. He has several shows on air. Besides American Idol, there is Britain's Got Talent and X Factor. Cowell also has a record label.

Love him or hate him, most Idol fans would agree that the show absolutely would not be the same without the acid-tongued judge. Cowell is the only judge of the four who is not afraid to be brutally honest. And he is almost always on point with his observations of contestants' performances. The ratings would most likely plummet if Cowell does leave.

Related Links:

The Insider

Daily Stab

TV Squad

TV Guide

Sunday School Teacher Arrested in Cantu Murder

A single mother who taught Sunday school at her grandfather's church in Tracy, California is in custody for the kidnapping and murder of her daughter's playmate. Eight-year old Sandra Cantu frequently played with Melissa Huckaby's five-year old daughter.

Family members say that they are stunned to learn that Huckaby has been arrested for this terrible crime because she loves children and has abundant patience with them. Cantu's body was found in the 28-year old woman's suit case in an irrigation pond. Huckaby is being held in custody in the San Joaquin County Jail without bail and on suicide watch.

Statistically, it is rare for women to kidnap and murder children. Police were shocked when Huckaby emerged as their only suspect based on her inconsistent story. They have not revealed where or how young Sandra was killed. No motive has been established.

How odd and alarming that the mother of a young daughter would take the life of someone else's young daughter! I'll ask the question again... Parents, do you know where your children are? Do you really know the person that you are entrusting your child to? Ask your children questions when they've been with someone else outside of your presence. Check their bodies for unusual marks and ask how they got there. Talk to them and let them know that they can come to you about anything, especially if someone tells them not to tell. I'm no expert but as always, I'll include helpful links.

Rest in peace, Sandra. To her family, may God bless and keep you.

Child Safety Tips Links:

National Center for Missing and Exploited Children

Polly Klass Foundation- Take Action: Keep Your Children Safe

McGruff.org

Essortment.com - Child Safety Tips

Capt. Phillips rescued, three pirates killed

According to an Associated Press report, after being held hostage on the high seas for five days, Capt. Richard Phillips was freed when U.S. Navy snipers shot three of the pirates holding Phillips captive. A fourth pirate was in military custody after surrendering.

Upon learning that their captain was rescued, the crew of the Maersk-Alabama cheered and waived the American flag. They were able to escape the pirates after Capt. Phillips bravely offered himself as a hostage.

Although this hostage drama has a happy ending, pirates are said to hold more than a dozen ships and 230 sailors from various nations. The pirates are threatening to take more aggressive actions by killing hostages if attacked by potential rescuers.

Meet Bo, the Obama's new dog!

Bo is the newest member of the Obama family thanks to Massachusetts Senator Ted Kennedy (D) and his wife Victoria who gave the six-month old Portuguese water dog to Sasha and Malia. Isn't he just too cute?!

Steve Harvey, is he helping women or a hypocrite?

Undoubtedly, you've heard about or even purchased and read comedian and radio talk show host Steve Harvey's new book, Act Like a Lady, Think Like a Man. He's been on all the television talk shows promoting it, including Oprah and Tyra. The book has risen to the top of the New York Times bestseller list, before he appeared on Oprah.

Harvey has been touting his book as something to help women because he wants women to be armed with the right information from a man's perspective with regards to relationships. His own relationships are being dissected on the Internet in one blog or another. All one has to do is Google Steve Harvey or Steve Harvey book to find links to blogs where his fans and critics are immersed in a battle of words over the book. Many feel that the entertainer is unqualified to give serious advice to women considering the fact that he has been married three times and the second Mrs. Harvey, Mary, is currently suing their former attorney for conning her in the divorce settlement and the affidavit is rife with allegations against Harvey for everything from cheating and spousal abuse to child neglect and abandonment. Harvey supporters think that the sometimes-funny-man is sincere in his quest to assist women in the art of deciphering man-speak. Other readers believe it's just another method of making money. Men have dropped by the blogs to insist that he does not speak for them and that they would never behave in the manner described by Harvey. People have even brought up the severed friendship between Harvey and deceased comedian Bernie Mac. The rumor is that Harvey's dirty dealings killed that relationship.

The BEST BLOG on this controversy, by far (and when I say "by far," I mean by miles and miles, people) is Phyllis V. Du'Gas Blog. Admittedly, I never heard of Phyllis Du'Gas before that fateful Google search; but, now that I have found her blog, I am a fan! I can tell you that you will be as well. She speaks with eloquence and truth. I say "speaks" rather than "writes" because her words seem to be alive and vocal. With that said, Phyllis includes a link to author and poet Sharon P. Carson, who wrote a book by the same title as Harvey's years earlier. There is much speculation as to whether her title, concept and format were copied (with some changes, of course) by Harvey and his camp. Of course, Harvey has denied the allegation.


Titles cannot be copyrighted. Remember the old saying,"there's nothing new under the sun"? Well, it's certainly true that more than one person can have the same idea, although there will most likely be some differences in how those ideas play out. And the excerpts from Ms. Carson's book that I've read online do seem quite different from what Harvey has to say. Perhaps that's because he's writing from a man's perspective and intentionally set about making his material as different as possible. Perhaps not. My opinion is that it's not close enough to be called "plagiarism". However, I do like what I've read of Carson's book better than what I've read of Harvey's. As a result, I feel that my precious funds would be better spent supporting Carson, who is a self-published author, than supporting a reputed self-absorbed comedian whose ego immensely out-weighs his talent. I'm not judging Harvey, here... I don't know him, I'm simply commenting on the posts I've read about him. I think he's okay as a comedian but there are others I like a lot more. I only listen to his show when I'm in my car because he's the only one on in the mornings in my area since Tom Joyner is no longer on the air here (miss you Tom, Sybil, J. Anthony Brown, and the whole crew). But let me tell you that I don't like it when he cuts off a guest who's speaking and they don't even get around to the reason the person is on the show (and he does this consistently) or he calls a woman a "heifer". The heifer thing really ticks me off! When I found out that he was coming to our area, I just didn't feel that he was funny enough for me to actually pay to see him. From some of the comments I've read and the crazy-hilarious Katt Williams video, I was right. And besides, Sharon is a poet and author, y'all. She didn't have to get another author to write for her.

I do have one question... who the hell turned Harvey's book into a PDF and didn't email me a copy?! Dayum! LOL. For anyone else who didn't get that email and doesn't want to pay, try your local library or sit in Barnes & Noble for a hot minute and get your read on.

The last thing I want to say to anyone looking for relationship advice is this: THINK FOR YOURSELF! You know whether you're being treated well or not. You know if the relationship is costing more than you can afford to pay from an emotional standpoint. It's okay to get other people's opinions, but remember that you are the one in the situation, not the person offering advice. You have to decide what's best for you. And if you believe in God or a higher power, talk to Him. He listens and answers prayers. It may not be the answer you want, but He will answer. And for heaven's sake, if you are in an abusive (physically, emotionally, whatever) relationship, don't let anyone talk you into staying. You can't whip my azz or cuss me out and put me down one minute and then tell me that you love me the next and everything's fine. Aw, hell no!! If that's you, girlfriend, get help and get out. Do it for you and your children if you have any. Oh, yeah, there are professional counselors who do this for a living and many of them are males who can give you the benefit of a male perspective as well. Someone mentioned Dr. Ronn Elmore on Phyllis' blog.

Don't forget to check out Phyllis V. Du'Gas and Sharon P. Carson.

Other Links:

Steve Harvey STOLE His Bestselling Book?!

Steve Harvey Book: more fat for the fire


The Savvy Sista: Sharon P. Carson Statement on Steve Harvey...

Steve Harvey's New Relationship Book

Katt Williams Spanks Steve Harvey

AverageBro Steve Harvey on the Foxxhole

Gulf War Illness

This is still a very important subject that should not be forgotten. The soldiers living with Gulf War Illness cannot forget.






Related Links:

Gulf War Syndrome

Gulf War Illness Study

Health of GW Veterans

Gulf War Veterans Illness

Centers for Disease Control: Gulf War Illness

Veterans for America Org

Gulf War Syndrome Wikipedia

Not a myth: GPS can lead to home break-ins!

Genentech Pulls Psoriasis Drug Raptiva

The drug Raptiva, used to treat psoriasis, is being taken off the U.S. market by the manufacturer, Genentech, according to a released statement. The drug company has advised doctors not to issue new prescriptions and to contact patients who currently use the treatment to discuss an appropriate alternative. The drug will no longer be available after June 8, 2009. The Food and Drug Administration issued a public health advisory warning that the drug is linked to a rare brain infection called progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML). Three people using the treatment for chronic plaque psoriasis have died. Two of them were confirmed to have the rare and sometimes fatal brain infection.

Related links:

National Psoriasis Foundation

Bloomberg.com

Health Day

Apologetic racist wants to go to heaven

Elwin Wilson tells his story of rampant, senseless, unforgiving racism way back in the 1960s south. Rock Hill, South Carolina to be exact. Wilson declares that he was never afraid of anyone or anything. The one thing that has been able to frighten him is the thought of spending the ever after in hell. In an effort to avoid that horrendous fate, he has been issuing public apologies to some of those he has harassed,threatened, and beaten. Many people have embraced Wilson and accepted his apology. Many people are calling him a "hero." I think not. And the comments left by racists who don't feel that Mr. Wilson's apology is necessary are appalling. Read the story. Have your children read the story and the comments. So many of our younger generation think that racism is a thing of the past. Those comments should certainly dispel that myth. My take on Wilson's story is contained in the poem, No Hero, below. I suppose that in the end, it doesn't matter why he decided to change but that he did. Too bad his change of heart has taken multiple decades to happen and has been a negative influence on countless impressionable minds that continue to harbor hate. Peace and blessings, Mr. Wilson.



No Hero

It defies understanding that you are being called a hero
You have simply collapsed under the weight of your sins from long ago
No one can really question the sincerity of your wish to change your ways
But you freely admit it’s only because of worry about how you’ll spend
your eternal days
Loved to spew the N-word, which actually describes an ignorant person ---
like you
One has only to read about your behavior back then to know it’s true
Unprovoked harassment, threats, and beatings of blacks. Is that all that
you’ve done?
Or should you be arrested and tried for the crimes you’ve admitted to and
murder one?
The ghost of a black man haunting you! Oh the volumes that speaks
Is his soul unable to rest because justice for his senseless death it seeks?
Will you take the truth to your grave? Will we ever really know?
Honestly, it’s the people who endured your vicious, hateful wrath who
should be called “hero”
It’s because of people like you that racism is alive and thriving to this very
day
Still, I wish you well and hope that to heaven you find your way


Sunida E. York © copyright 2009 All Rights Reserved

Rapping Flight Attendant

Hip Hop Flight Attendant @ Yahoo! Video

Suze Orman's Recession Survival Strategies on Oprah

If you missed Thursday's Oprah, you missed Suze Orman's new financial strategies for surviving the current economic downturn that's sure to get worse before it gets better. Families are having to cut their budgets to the bare bones all across the country. Orman's most surprising nugget of wisdom was to pay only the minimum payment on credit card bills until finances flow freely again. Visit www.Oprah.com to view video clips and read text from the segment for great advice on what to do if you've been laid off (COBRA is more affordable, information on unemployment benefits and possible extensions you may qualify for), refinancing or modifying your mortgage (Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac clients), and stashing your cash. Find out how the Stimulus Plan can help you!

SanKofa Connection: 3rd Annual Cultural Touch Festival

SanKofa Connection's Third Annual Cultural Touch Festival

Saturday, April 25, 2009
9:00 a.m. - 4:00p.m.

Sponsored by:
African-American Cultural Society
345 Manning Ave
Sumter, SC

Hosted by Natalie Williams, Program Director

Featuring:
African Drumming, Performances & Fashion Show, Queens of the Nile Presentation,Dancing, Food Vendors, and Exhibits

"Remembering the past to build the future."

Life Magazine: The Day MLK Died -- Exclusive Photos

Life magazine has posted previously unpublished photos of the scene after Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s assassination.



http://www.life.com/image/last/in-gallery/24651

Nick Vujicic: Are you going to finish strong?

Life Without Limbs

Special thanks to T. York for the clip!

Miki Howard to sing in SC!

The South Carolina Legislative Black Caucus presents its 2009 Annual Gala featuring Miki Howard, Lenny Williams, Clarence Carter, Keith Robinson and Pressha. Tickets are on sale at the Township Box Office or through Ticketmaster. Visit the South Carolina Legislative Black Caucus website for additional information.

AARP Article Lists Best Hospitals

NBC's Today Show featured a segment with AARP and it's article on finding the best hospital for what ails you. In the May and June 2009 issue of AARP Magazine, readers are set on the right path to finding the proper health care. The online article features an interactive map of the top 125 hospitals in the country making it easy to locate one near you.

Those seeking medical help will also find links to other helpful websites like Consumers' Checkbook, a non-profit organization that rates service firms and publishes Consumers' Guide to Hospitals, Hospital Compare,an online tool provided by Medicare, Center for Medical Consumers, a consumer advocate, and Patient Advocate Foundation which seeks to solve insurance and health care access problems.

See what hospitals doctors picked as their favorites for problems with everything from the eyes to mystery diagnoses.

Read it in good health! Keep what you've got because you can't buy it, people.

Actress Aasha Davis' Sister Missing Under Suspicious Circumstances

'Friday Night Lights' actress Aasha Davis' sister, Lesley Ann Herring, has been missing for seven weeks. Davis, listed as her sister's emergency contact at work, was notified once Herring failed to show up at work two consecutive days.

Aasha Davis, who has also guest starred on 'Grey's Anatomy', appeared on television with police to plead for the public's assistance in finding her beloved sister. She also has a blog featuring pictures of Lesley and sentimental messages from family members and friends.


Herring is married to Lyle Herring who also disappeared for a short time but resurfaced without his wife. The long dreadlocks he wore had been cut. The police are frustrated with the lack of concern and cooperation exhibited by Herring in the disappearance of his wife.

Lesley Ann Herring's family is asking anyone with information regarding her disappearance or whereabouts to call (213) 972-2915.

Dakota's Easter Wish

With Easter fast approaching (April 12th), parents may want to consider a sweet alternative to filling their children's Easter baskets with lots of candy. Author Vasilisa Hamilton's book, Dakota's Easter Wish, makes the perfect Easter gift for children 3 to 8 years of age.


In this humorous tale, Dakota is the only child who has not won the annual Easter egg hunt. Her determination to make her wish come true will inspire your child to dream and to work hard to make that dream come true.


Visit Vasilisa at her website: www.papadidntpreach.com

Heck of A Half Court Shot!

Vick to testify at bankruptcy hearing.

Former Atlanta Falcons quarterback, Michael Vick, has been ordered to appear at his bankruptcy hearing in Newport News, VA on April 2nd. The Federal Bureau of Prisons website currently lists Vick as being "in transit." The NFL star was convicted of a dogfighting conspiracy charge and sentenced to 23 months at Fort Leavenworth in Kansas. Vick is eligible for home confinement on May 21st and release on July 20th.

Can You Keep a Secret?

Author Nishawnda Ellis' secret is out! She returns to bookstores with her latest literary offering, Keeping Secrets Telling Lies. Read an excerpt below.
Shaniece Turner is back and hell bent on getting what she wants: marrying Mark Anderton, and getting away with murder.

In the mind of a dangerous psychotic woman burying her secret is like checking off her "to do" list: planned, calculated and executed. The only thing between her fairy tale ending is an all grown up Dawson Jones, who discovers the real person responsible for her father's mistress's murder and is determined to make her suffer.

After the dust settles, who will win, who will lose and what's the final body count?

Keeping Secrets, Telling Lies is the sequel to Wives and Girlfriends (Urban Books, 2007)

In Stores April 2009

Kutiman - 03 - I'm New

Jon Stewart and Jim Cramer Smackdown

Just in case you missed Jon Stewart giving Jim Cramer a verbal @ss whippin' (I don't think anyone did), here it is.

The Daily Show With Jon StewartM - Th 11p / 10c

Jim Cramer Unedited Interview Pt. 3

Daily Show Full Episodes
Important Things w/ Demetri Martin

Political Humor
Jim Cramer

The Peddlers Group opens online bookstore!

The Peddlers Group is a new online bookstore hoping to attract lovers of the written word.



With titles such as Sins of the Innocent by Deborah E. Warr and Nik of Time by Catherine E. Standell and Cora Leigh Hampton, readers are sure to find a novel to captivate and engage their imaginations. If not, Peddlers Group invites you to tell them what your interests are so that they can meet your needs.



Stop by to read an excerpt or just to see what's being peddled today!

Rihanna,Chris Brown case inspires Oprah and Tyra. Pt. 2

NOTE: Dr. Phil is weighing in on this issue on Thursday as well. His segment is titled Love and Lies.

Violence is not the answer for either party, if the truth be told. If your relationship is abusive on any level...emotional, mental or physical, it should not be endured! You deserve better. Love will not be without complications from time to time, but that does not include neglect, intimidation, cruelty, or violence. So, if your relationship is causing you pain, you should be heading for the door.

The following poem is excerpted from my book, "He's Not Your Boyfriend If... She's Not Your Girlfriend If... A Rude, Offensive and Humorous Take on Unrequited Love". By no means am I implying that domestic violence is funny. The book is designed to make people in bad relationships think, open their eyes, look at it from a different perspective, and get out without beating yourself up about it (as women tend to do). The humor is just to make you laugh to lift your spirits. Read the poem. If it's you, get out, girl.

Wrong Far Too Long

If you’re being pushed, punched, kicked, or
slapped in the face...
Leave your abuser. Get to a safe place
So --- you’re staying with him for your
children’s sake
Actually, you’re showing them how much
a human punching bag can take

It’s not worth it. No doubt, he’s wrong
You’ve put up with the pain for far too long

Maybe hitting you is not his thing
He uses verbal abuse to pull your string
Well that is just as bad; it may even be worse
The psychological damage can plague your
life like a curse

Just because he speaks the words doesn’t
mean that they are true. He’s wrong
Listen to your heart, your soul to which God
speaks. You’ve ignored His voice for far
too long

It’s nothing like that, either, you say
Instead, you’ve compromised your morals in
some way
You know “it’s all good.” You’re trying to
keep your man ‘cause he’s “the one”
Yet, you’re ashamed. Your self-respect is
damaged. You regret what you’ve done

Find your strength by being secure in who
you really are. Asking you to be anything
else is wrong
Find your true character, your morals and
your values that have been pushed aside for
far too long

A relationship that damages you physically,
mentally, or morally is wrong
Staying in it a minute more is a minute too
long
Call on your faith. Rally your courage. As
long as you’re alive, you can be strong
But if you let him beat you to death, slay you
emotionally, or bankrupt you morally...
YOU have been wrong. YOU have been wrong --- far too long

Copyright ©2006-2009 by Sunida E. York All Rights Reserved

Rihanna,Chris Brown case inspires Oprah and Tyra. Pt. 1

Talk show queen, Oprah Winfrey, will be devoting Thursday's show to the subject of dating violence as will Tyra Banks. Both talk show hosts saw the well publicized, violent altercation between R&B singers Chris Brown and Rihanna as an opportunity to speak out against violence against women. Neither host is a stranger to advocating for women and against abuse. Oprah has done numerous shows over the years aimed at empowering women to leave abusive relationships and helping men to realize that it is never acceptable to abuse a woman, physically, mentally or emotionally. Since hanging up her angel wings and picking up a microphone, Tyra Banks has joined the chorus of voices admonishing violent behavior towards women. Oprah and Tyra feel compelled to attempt to reach the millions of teen aged Rihanna fans that statistics reveal are victims of dating violence.

Chris Brown has been charged with two felonies in the physical attack on Rihanna that left her visibly battered and bruised. It is alleged that he threatened to kill her during the beating. Brown's next court date is April 6, 2009. Celebrities have been weighing in on the incident, some speaking to Rihanna, asking her to carefully consider resuming a relationship with Brown. It has been rumored that the pair have reconciled and are engaged. In addition, Rihanna is said to be pregnant. None of the rumors have been substantiated. Many of the celebrities who spoke about the incident have noted that the allegations leveled against Brown have not been proven and judgement should be saved until such time.

I have been following the case and I am appalled when I hear comments such as, "They're just kids. He's only 18." While his age may attest to his lack of maturity, it does not excuse the beating he allegedly inflicted on Rihanna. Likewise, those who want to blame the victim by claiming that she provoked the attack are not offering a valid excuse. There is no excuse for a man to punch, choke and bite the woman he supposedly loves.

Racism is alive, well and kicking!

Man Finds Racial Slur Printed On Receipt
KMBC's Marcus Moore reports.




Thanks to C. Lewis for the email.

Barnes & Nobles responds to "racist" display allegation.

Barnes & Nobles Booksellers
Press Release

CONTACT:
Mary Ellen Keating
Senior Vice President
Corporate Communications
Barnes & Noble, Inc.
(212) 633-3323
mkeating@bn.com

03/06/2009

Barnes & Noble Outraged Over Tampering of Store Display in Coral Gables, Florida



New York, New York – March 6, 2009 – Barnes & Noble, Inc. (NYSE: BKS), the world’s largest bookseller, announced today that it is the victim of a malicious act. The company is outraged over the tampering of a store display in its Coral Gables, Florida store by a customer who placed an inappropriate title in the center of its Presidential display. Barnes & Noble believes the incident occurred two weeks ago when a customer took a book from another part of the store entitled Monkeys: A Captivating Look at These Fascinating Animals, placed it in the window display and then photographed the altered display. When Barnes & Noble discovered the book in the display it immediately removed it. Since then, the photograph has been widely distributed via email and over the Internet falsely claiming that Barnes & Noble actually placed the book in the display.

Leonard Riggio, Barnes & Noble Founder and Chairman who has long been involved in the civil rights struggle, said “this malicious and despicable act is nothing short of a hate crime, which should be punishable under federal statutes. Rather than detracting from President Obama’s historic victory as was intended, the perpetrator of this crime served only to validate the wisdom of the tens of millions of Americans who voted for him.”

Read entire press release.

Thanks to T. Patterson for the link.

NFL Players Corey Smith and Marquis Cooper Missing

Detroit Lions defensive end Corey Smith (pictured on the right) and Oakland Raiders linebacker Marquis Cooper have been reported missing after failing to return from a fishing trip with two friends. The U.S. Coast Guard is searching for the NFL players and Nick Skyler and William Bleakley. The men did not return to Seminole Boat Ramp in Clearwater Pass, Florida on their 21-foot fishing boat as expected. A Coast Guard spokesman said that no distress call was received from the men.




Links:

ESPN

ABC News

Yahoo News

Bloomberg.com

Radio Broadcasting Legend, Paul Harvey, Dead

AP – FILE **In this Nov. 16, 1988 file photo, radio commentator Paul Harvey and his wife, Lynne, hold a street



After almost 60 years of radio commentary, Paul Harvey passed away in Arizona on Saturday. A cause of death for the 90-year-old has not been made available. For "The rest of the story" on the radio pioneer, click here.


Links:

paulharvey.com

ABC News

Yahoo News

Edit Again Publications releases new title: Ex-boyfriend

Edit Again Publications
_____________________________________________________________________

P.O. Box 35475 • St. Petersburg, FL 33705 • (727) 821-7345


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Teresa Patterson
Email: teresadpatterson@yahoo.com

New book by local author is sure to have you wondering about your ex.

St. Petersburg, FL – February 25, 2009 – Author Teresa D. Patterson of St. Petersburg has launched her own publishing company Edit Again Publications. She will be releasing her first self-published title, Ex-boyfriend on March 1, 2009.

The idea for Ex-boyfriend was born on November 1, 2006, during National Novel Writing Month (www.nanowrimo.org), where the goal was to write a 50,000 word novel in thirty days. Unfortunately, Miss Patterson did not obtain her goal; however she wasn’t deterred. The characters that were created that November cried to have a voice. Miss Patterson felt a strong desire to finish her creation and see it in print.

Ex-boyfriend is a fast-paced novel that will appeal to readers who love urban fiction. It will especially hit home for women with an ex in their past.

Ex-boyfriend is available on line at www.editagainpublications.com, www.teresadpatterson.com and www.amazon.com.

For more information about Ex-boyfriend or other titles by Teresa D. Patterson contact the author at (727) 821-7345.



Ex-boyfriend
When Vicki Holiday catches her boyfriend cheating, she
breaks up with him and tries to go on with her life. Terrence
refuses to go away. He stalks Vicki and harasses her friends.
He even threatens any man who might get close to her. When
he breaks into her apartment and confronts her new love, will
someone end up in a bag?

About the Author
Teresa D. Patterson, who also writes under the pseudonym, Diane Diamond, is the author of It’s Your World, Black Girl! Project Queen, and Uncrossing Her Legs. She’s also the founder of Edit Again Publications and lives in Florida with her two sons.

Book Statistics
Title: Ex-boyfriend
Author: Teresa D. Patterson
ISBN: 978-0-615-27800-1
Category: Urban Fiction
Length: 231 pages
Retail Price: $15.00
Binding: 5 ½ x 8 ½ trade paperback
Release: March 1, 2009

Reviewers
For a gratis copy, please contact the following:
Edit Again Publications
P.O. Box 35475
St. Petersburg, FL 33705
(727) 821-7345
www.editagainpublications.com
www.editagainservices@yahoo.com
###

Fighting Foreclosure: "Produce the note!"

Homeowners trying to fend off mortgage lenders that are trying to foreclose on their home have been finding power in these three words... "Produce the note." Thanks to Florida attorney, Chris Hoyer, this delay tactic may give struggling homeowners the time they need to find a way to save their homes from being repossessed by the bank. Visit Hoyer's website, Consumer Warning Network, for more information and to obtain the "Produce the note" paperwork. The tactic is working for some consumers because the bank holding the note may not be able to produce the original signed note showing that the homeowner is actually liable for the loan. Additional information can also be found at ABC.com

Thinking about giving up? Watch this!

Cha Sa-soon, a 68-year-old South Korean woman, should inspire and encourage anyone who's thinking about giving up on a goal. Never give up! I hope she gets that license soon.

Dwight Howard lands 75 footer.

It's all net, baby! And check out his "Superman" dunk below. More highlights at nba.com

Jennifer Hudson - If This Isn't Love

Bungling burgelers' getaway car stolen

Greenwich Village Baker's Racist Cookies

Read more.

Special thanks to P. Thrower for the video link.

Buffalo, NY Plane Crash Kills 49

At approximately 10:10 p.m., Continental Flight 3407 crashed in Clarence Center, a suburb near Buffalo. The plane had left Newark, new Jersey and was set to land in Buffalo. Instead, it hit a home as it went down and burst into searing, high-reaching flames on Thursday night. An information hotline has been set up for relatives of passengers on that flight. The toll-free number is 1-800-621-3263.

According to the FAA, 48 people were on board the jetliner. The 44 passengers and four crew members were killed along with one person on the ground.

Yep. Those nails are real.

(AP Photo/The Deseret News, Tom Smart)

Well, they were real. Salt Lake City, Utah's Lee Redmond once boasted having the longest fingernails in the world and was listed in the Guinness Book of World Records. However, a car accident on Feb. 10, 2009, caused the nails to break. Before the accident, the nails measured nearly 30 inches. Luckily, her injuries were not life threatening.