AngstRiddenBlackWoman

Gold Digger

2009-10-23T12:59:00.001-04:00

She does nothing more than berate and intimidate.

Happy 60th Birthday Gene Simmons!

2009-08-25T13:24:00.003-04:00

Those who know me well know that since the age of six, my favorite band has been KISS. Ever since I heard the song "Parasite" back in the second grade, I've been a member of the KISS Army. However, my great childhood secret was despite my adoration, I was terrified of Gene Simmons.

So much in fact that I would cry if I saw certain pictures of Gene in magazines that made him look particularly evil, like the photo on the back cover of ALIVE II in which his face is covered in blood and he resembles the devil himself.

Watching KISS Meets The Phantom worsened my phobia. There was a scene in which he crashed through a wall and beat up a bunch of security guards (well, it was actually his robot double, but that's another part of the plot I don't want to give away here); and it scared the crap out of me. At the time my mom and I lived in an apartment building -- we lived on the lower floor, and when I would come home from school each day I was afraid to walk down the steps to get to our door -- I had to walk past a wall that jutted out before I could reach our apartment. I fervently believed at the time that Gene was hiding and would jump out, club me over the head and drag me to a hellish abyss.

I was only nine, OK? Anyway, this bizarre fear continued -- I had posters of Paul Stanley and Ace Frehley on my walls in my bedroom, but Gene? No freaking way.

It wasn't until 1983 when KISS finally took off the makeup that my odd phobia subsided. Lord Almighty, it turned out that Gene Simmons was attractive under that greasepaint -- actually very attractive. Sexy. Exotic. Mysterious.

Move forward 12 years and I'm now a young pup journalist in Ohio and who did I get to meet an official KISS convention? The man himself. Gene Simmons. He was tall, dark and handsome. And that voice! To this day I tell people that he has the most wonderful speaking voice. Deep, with perfect diction -- David Beckham wishes he could sound like Gene.

I was a bit nervous but Gene was nice, gracious and very funny. As I continued my work as an entertainment journalist I was able to meet up with him for other interviews and wouldn't you know, I wasn't petrified anymore.

Anyway, today is Gene's 60th birthday, and I wanted to wish him a healthy and happy one, and I hope he continues to do what he does best for many, many years.

OMG, Like Kids R So Dumb!

2009-08-25T12:57:00.008-04:00

I work at a community college; a very big one with five campuses and more than 60,000students in a famous rust belt city.

Today marks the second day of the Fall 2000 semester, and already I am dreaming of my next vacation. Why?

Judging by the shenanigans I've seen already this week, I feel the next generation is doomed. And in turn, so are the rest of us. These teenagers and young adults have been coddled, hand held, and spoon fed for so long by their parents and caregivers that they can't do a damn thing on their own.

Case in point: at each campus at the beginning of a new semester, we post large displays indicating class times, days, instructor, class name and room location. These displays are printed in spreadsheet form, and they are very neat and discernable from other materials on display. The large signs that read "FALL 2009 ROOM SCHEDULE" should make it pretty easy, right?

Nope.

In the atriums of our campuses we have greeters and immediately, the kids come running, out of breath, frantic, flustered. A typical conversation goes like this:

Greeter: Hi, welcome!

Student: Oh God (pant, pant)!

Greeter: What's wrong?

Student: I need to know where these classes are located.

Greeter: Of course! Don't worry! Well, right behind me and throughout the campus we have displays listing the information you need.

Student: Can't you tell me?

Greeter: Just look at the grid.

Student: (Puzzled as hell) I don't know how to that.

Greeter: (With a forced smile) Come here and I will show you how to do it.

Apparently, these students don't know how to follow a horizontal line and a vertical column to get to find the information they need. However, they can figure out to upload stupid ringtones, text inane sentences and post on Facebook and MySpace.

And God forbid they make a mistake when it comes to filling out forms and schedules: somehow it is always the fault of the school. It's quite amusing, yet really pathetic when a student brings their parent to the office when something goes wrong -- guess who gets the blame? We do.

When discussing this, I have to depend on the legendary Paul Lynde who sang this wonderful song in the musical Bye Bye Birdie.

Truer words were never spoken.

An Open Letter to Aaron Eckhart

2009-07-31T13:11:00.008-04:00

Dear Aaron:

Please use what the Heavenly Father gave you, and stop working against it.

I just saw the trailer for Love Happens, your new romantic comedy/drama with Jennifer Aniston and I cringed; then I wailed loudly (to no one in particular), “Why is Aaron Eckhart doing this sort of fluff?”

You are way better than this!

Ever since I saw you on screen at the Cedar Lee Theater as Chad Piercewell in your debut film In the Company of Men, I knew you were an actor who had something special – and 12 years later you’ve aged like a fine wine (I know you don’t drink, and neither do I, but I couldn’t think of a better comparison). You’ve evolved into a cross between Gary Cooper and Kirk Douglas – two known for their stoicism and nobility, and their ability to crank it up a notch, or two when necessary.

For some reason, your choices of roles recently have left me flummoxed. As a child and teenager I spent a lot of time watching old movies and the actors from the 1930s, 1940s and 1950s had very distinct personas and utilized them to their advantage: George Raft, Humphrey Bogart, Cary Grant and Jeff Chandler all had their niche.

You, Aaron Eckhart, also have a niche. However, you seem to be constantly fighting against it, proclaiming that you want to play the guy who gets the girl or who saves the day. Those are nice sentiments, indeed, but when those sorts of roles don’t utilize your talents to your best advantage, what will you have gained but a long string of fluff films on your IMDB.com profile?

What would you be preferred to be remembered for when it comes to your career – Battle: Los Angeles, The Core and No Reservations; or In the Company of Men, The Dark Knight, Your Friends and Neighbors and Towelhead?

Stupid Black Woman Tricks

2009-07-30T17:09:00.002-04:00

I work at a college and some days it is very interesting and some days it is boring as hell, but that is OK because having balance is a good thing.
However, what isn’t good is when a violent event happens on campus that makes one’s head shake in disgust.

Case in point: it was a pretty average day today. Nice and quiet, with students registering for Fall classes; and I was in my office studying for a test later that night (working on another master’s degree, but whose counting), when I heard loud shrieks coming from two women – shrieks that had a certain cadence that let me know that the sounds were coming from black women.

Two black women fighting like wild cats in the atrium of a college campus – how nice.
Once again, as I watched two members of my gender and race act like two hooligans in alley rumble hissing and scratching like two she-cats, I could only sigh and shake my head in disgust. Sometimes I wonder when black people argue and fight publicly, are they really doing it because they are upset or are they doing it for show -- a sort of ghetto minstrel performance. I wonder.

I wonder if those two were fighting about a man. I wouldn’t be surprised. It seems to happen all the time; whether I’m watching some court show, or watching COPS, a situation always arises when two black women scrap over some dude, and then it gets ugly, real ugly.

Now, I have no idea why they fought. It’s just a theory and a good one at that because I’ve seen it happen too many times where I work. A word is said, an eye roll given, and punch is thrown and then all hell breaks loose to the eternal disgust of the people watching, including me. For a brief moment, everyone is somewhat entertained, this temporary break in the day’s monotony, and then realism creeps back in, the fact that these women have no self-esteem, no value of their own minds and bodies.

It’s just depressing, really.

And so it goes, today’s fight is now over, and security reports are being written and questions will be asked, but it really doesn’t solve the problem as to why.

Cancer Sucks and So Does Medicare

2009-07-13T17:23:00.005-04:00

My mom has cancer, a rare form of stomach cancer (linitis plastica), and she began chemo today. It has a poor survival rate, however her doctor now says he will try with chemo to shrink as much as possible and then remove the bad part and leave her with a small stomach. He thinks there is a change my mom could beat the odds.

However, Medicare sure isn’t making the battle to win any easier for mom.
She is retired; has been for over 10 years. With the exception of her thyroid medicine that she takes everyday my mother has never “used” the system, or tried to fleece it. In fact, she positively loathes any sort of help. She is fiercely independent.

But now, as she finally does need the help from a system from which she has paid into for years as a gainfully employed person, my mother (along with millions of others) is getting royally fucked by the government.

Medicare won’t pay for a PET scan. A PET scan is an even more precise form of image-taking than MRI. Her physician at the Hope Center for Cancer care wants to see if there is a spot on her liver. Apparently you have to have a certain type of cancer to have Medicare to approve the PET scan and mother didn’t luck out (yes, I’m reeking of sarcasm now).

Also, this weekend her oncologist prescribed two types of anti-nausea medicine. Co-pays: $519 and $375 respectfully! I went to the drugstore to get the prescriptions filled and when the pharmacist told me the price, I screamed. Then I called my mom on my cell phone and she said, “MOTHERFUCKER” (true story)! I paid for one and charged the other to my credit card.

Previous to this event I had a feeling that this battle would turn out to be expensive, and I thought of various ways to raise some money. One of which was to sell a novel I wrote about a real relationship I had years ago with a notable person, but in the end I couldn't do it because I still love the fellow in question and didn't want to humiliate him as he launched some brand new ventures. People were very interested in the book, but I pulled the plug.

So, what I am doing now is trying to research organizations that help retired people who have Medicare and have cancer with their medical costs. And with that, there is another conundrum. Mom is not poor, but not wealthy either, just solidly middle class, and so it is hard to get help because most assistance initiatives target the impoverished. So there are millions like my mom who are caught in the middle.

Anyway, that is my rant for the day, and I’m sure as this progresses I will have much more to say.

Detroit ? City

2009-04-27T14:04:00.003-04:00

NOTE: I edited this post because my best friend OBW said I was being "mean." Dick Cheney is mean. I am not.

Dear Detroiters:

Your city is in trouble!

I’m not going to lie. And it’s a shame because there are so many wonderful things to do in the city and beyond, but unfortunately, no one is hearing about that because of all the fucked up things that are going on here!

Here are a few things that are wrong with Detroit:

• One dysfunctional City Council led by Monica Conyers, who I can’t decide is bipolar, or just plain evil and greedy.
• A mayor, Ken Cockrel, who is becoming increasingly egomaniacal, just like his predecessor, Kwame Kilpatrick.
• A police force that tries hard, but really can’t modernize because of the archaic like equipment and headquarters that members are forced to use.
• Schizophrenic weather: 40 degrees one day, 80 the next! How can you plan to do anything?
• A shitty football team. Face it, the Fords can’t run an auto company, nor can they run a football team.
• Lousy radio stations. The WRIF used to rule in the 80s and 90s, but has not regressed to well, a shell of its former self. Drew was the only smart one, and now he’s gone.

It’s great that the city has some believers, but I don’t think anything is going to change. And if you are a Detroiter banking on President Obama to help out, forget it. He's proved he hates Las Vegas, so what does he think about Detroit.

Kim Kardashian Kicked My Ass

2009-04-27T12:01:00.005-04:00

I just bought one of Kim Kardashian's new fitness DVDs, one of a three disc series called "Fit in Your Jeans By Friday," and it is really good. She and her trainer move through some really difficult lunges, squats and kicks. The DVDs are about 50 minutes each. Good job Kim.

However, something that I am not too happy about regarding Kim Kardashian is the fact she decided to walk around with a blonde wig recently, and the photos are posted on her official web site. I was totally dismayed when I saw the photos because she looked, well like every blonde chick in Hollywood. With blonde hair, Kim loses her exotic beauty which to be honest, is one of her main selling point, next to her butt, of course. Why does every dark haired woman want to be blonde? What is the purpose? I hope Kim realizes that blonde is not always better from brunettes and to appreciate what she has -- a head of long, lush, dark hair!

Siegfried and Roy: The Greatest Entertainers. Ever. Period.

2009-03-02T15:27:00.005-05:00

Everyone cracks on me for being a hardcore Siegfried & Roy fan, but I don’t care. When I saw their 1980 NBC specials at the tender age of 11, I was hooked. The magic, the glitz, the glamour, it was too much for my little mind to process … and add the lions and tigers for even more entertainment value? Well, oh my!

When Roy was injured back in 2003 I used to pray every night for his recovery. I also prayed for Siegfried to be strong for him. I am not a religious person, so for me to hunker down every night and pray before I jumped into my bed was a big deal for me.

People also made fun of me because in the years following the accident as Roy continued to progress, I would stop by his and Siegfried’s house during my yearly trip to Las Vegas and deliver a bouquet of flowers and a card that I would carefully pick out from the selection at Albertsons. I didn’t expect anything in return, but lo and behold, thank you letters arrived, along with autographed photos and calendars. I couldn’t believe it. Talk about a happy camper. My friends and even my mother laughed because I was so excited by receiving these gifts from them, but I didn’t care. It was – and still is – nice to be appreciated.

Anyway, when S&R promised last year to perform one last time on stage, this time for the Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health, I knew they would follow through because I am a believer. I believe that S&R’s word is gold and they would never, ever back down from a promise or a challenge, and that is what the performance would in fact be. However, as usual S&R rose to the occasion and even brought out Montecore, the most famous tiger in the world (as Roy said to Maria Shriver in 2004) for a final goodbye, too. And in a way, maybe to say “No hard feelings.”

I hope my favorite magician couple can relax now and enjoy life. They did what they promised and did it with their usual flourish and flash.

They are truly the Kings of Las Vegas.

Rihanna: So Beautiful, Yet So Dumb!

2009-03-02T15:16:00.002-05:00

There is no excuse for Rihanna taking back Chris Brown after he beat the shit out of her. Two lumps, each on either side of her forehead, a swollen nose, bruised lips and bite marks, yeah that’s sign of a real man who wants to show love, isn’t it? I don’t think so.

And now there are reports and photos of Rhianna reuniting with her batterer (notice, I didn’t include the word “alleged” in there) in Miami, at Sean Combs’ house. If I were Rihanna’s mentor, Jay-Z, I’d not only knock the shit out of Brown but also put a Bensonhurst-style beat down on Combs for getting himself involved in this mess; but what can you say, once a publicity whore, always a publicity whore, and we know Combs’ loves publicity.

If Rihanna is so dumb and lacking self-esteem that she takes Brown back I hope all her corporate sponsors cancel their deals with her. I don’t want to see her on television or in print magazines selling Cover Girl cosmetics, or Gucci bags.

As much as Brown should be punished for what he did, so should Rihanna if she allows this misogynistic clown back into her life.

Welcome to Mr. Jindal's Neighborhood

2009-02-25T12:46:00.002-05:00

Watching Louisiana Gov. Bobby Jindal was like watching Mr. Rogers' Neighborhood, but of the East Indian variety. I can't believe that the Republicans were that stupid to offer him the prime slot of offering the rebuttal of President Obama's (I'm still getting used to hearing, writing and saying that) State of the Union speech last night.

Jindal sounded like a kindergarten teacher trying to explain to children how to draw rainbows and daisies. That sing-song voice, along with his poor wardrobe choice was pathetic. And most important, his message was way off. Instead of trying to find some solutions, Jindal just wanted to hammer Democratic policies.

Bad, bad, bad.

A Letter to Gretchen Rossi

2009-02-19T10:22:00.003-05:00

Dear Gretchen:

You have breathed life into “The Real Housewives of Orange County,” and that is making two women very angry, namely Vicki and Tamra.

I hope you don’t let their negativity, meanness, catty behavior and pure jealousy get you down. I’m perplexed that these two women don’t have any self control, empathy or sense of kindness. In other words, Vicki and Tamra are two of the biggest bitches on the face of the earth.

Tamra is obviously a very unhinged woman who has a lot of self-hatred; she has to insult people and be mean to them to have any sense of self worth and in the end she has a pretty pathetic existence. Would you want Ryan for a son? I think not. Until Tamra learns to love herself she will not be able to show genuine kindness to anyone.

As far as Vicki – when the show first started I thought she was a good role model, a self-made career woman who tried to do it all. Yes, it was obvious she was a control freak with her kids, but they kept their noses clean and you couldn’t find fault with that. Now, as the success, money and power piles up it is obvious that Vicki is a cold, calculating monster who doesn’t give a damn about anything except for what money can buy, i.e. a Rolex and a big house. I hope that one day Don will wise up and leave her ass.

Anyway, Gretchen, you are a lovely girl, and it is obvious that you are a kind person who doesn’t like to speak badly of people. You seem to have a “live and let live” way of thinking which will serve you well in the future. Just don’t let those Botoxed bitches get you down.

Sincerely,

ARBW

R.I.P the Girls Next Door

2009-02-02T14:54:00.003-05:00

The Girls Next Door
Are No More
No Kendra
No Bridget
No Holly
My television time
Is a lot less jolly
Holly flew the coop
Left Puffin for some guy named Angel
Who strikes me as a douche
Kendra got a man
A rich black one too
I bet she's happy
Hank is her boo
Bridget is gone
Now making her mark on TV
Visiting beaches
Traveling the high seas
My favorite show is gone
Those new skanks
Hef has at home
Won't do the trick
The original trio is nevermore
Now I am sick

Anthony Hopkins, How Could You?

2009-02-02T14:48:00.002-05:00

Men just won’t leave themselves alone. Now they have fallen into the syndrome of nipping and tucking.

Case in point: I just stumbled across some new photos of Sir Anthony Hopkins at the some awards ceremony and it’s obvious that he’s been nipped and tucked around the neck and jowl line. Now it is good work, but I want to cry because what is the world coming to when someone as naturally handsome and talented as he decides to go under the knife. Age doesn’t matter. He’s going to be 72 this year, and he’s sexy! What I’m more disturbed by is the fact that he did it. There was absolutely nothing wrong with Sir Anthony in the first place. I love men to look like men, like they’ve lived an interesting life and lived to tell the tale.

Compare the before photo: Nice, handsome, and sexy. Love the creases and the jowls.

Now: he’s nipped and tucked. Why, oh why Sir Anthony?

He’s still gorgeous, and talented and sexy. And I’m very thankful that he didn’t let the doctors touch those fabulous blue peepers because they convey wisdom and sensitivity. I hope he leaves well enough alone.

Huntington Bank

2008-11-17T19:13:00.001-05:00

Is the worst bank in the United States.
More to follow very soon.

Deminski & Doyle Are Back (YESSSSS!)

2008-11-17T14:57:00.003-05:00

After a year of hell, the best radio duo in Detroit is going to be back on the air in January!

Jeff Deminski and Bill Doyle, a funny, articulate pair, who actually read books and magazines, are going to be on WCSX in Detroit. They used to be on another station in Detroit, who dumped them and went down the crapper.

D&D, as they are known to their fans, made driving fun, entertaining and educational at the same time. They opened their airways to an assortment of people – and it was obvious that they enjoyed the rapport with them; they had fun trivia games and an assortment of stories to tell from their families. Each show was entertaining, and D&D didn’t insult the audience.

Hopefully, D&D can reunite the cast, including Beaver and Rudy.

And also hire me to offer my two cents periodically!

Welcome back D&D!
Love,
AngstRiddenBlackWoman

When Was Madonna Ever a Human Being?

2008-11-17T14:19:00.006-05:00

I’ve always had a love-hate relationship with Madonna. Loved the music; hated the woman.

No doubt, the woman knows how to team up with the hottest producers to craft catchy, danceable records. She’s been doing it since her self-titled debut in 1983 with the classics “Holiday” and “Borderline.” Her most recent album, Hard Candy may be her best ever; I enjoy it that much.

However, Madonna Louise Ciccone Penn soon-to-be-former Ritchie, leaves me cold when it comes to personality. Years ago I used to read interviews with her and I hoped that somewhere underneath her tough-gal personality was a kind person. Now, it seems, her real personality is one of a tyrant grasping to stay relevant. She’s the Norma Desmond of popular music with Alex Rodriquez serving as her very own Joe Gillis (watch the movie Sunset Boulevard to see what I am referring to) while traipsing all over, drawing her audience in and then spitting them back out when no longer needed.

I can’t even bear to look at Madonna anymore. She’s always been a champion of fitness, but damn, she’s got the physique of a man now – all sinew and gristle – not an ounce of fat – or femininity left on her. Why she would want to look like that is beyond me; and any man who would find that sexually appealing is, well, off his rocker.

I wonder how Madonna exists as a control freak every day of her life. She monitors everything about her children – no junk food, no newspapers and no television. C’mon. They’ve got to live in the real world sometime, you know.

Madonna seems to be a woman who doesn't have any internal peace; and Kabbalah didn’t seem to rectify it – what bandwagon will she jump on next to keep her name in the lexicon of popular culture?

I’m sure we’ll find out soon enough.

Aaron Eckhart, Say It Ain’t So!

2008-11-17T10:24:00.010-05:00

I’m not a big fan of Google or Yahoo News Alerts clogging my e-mail accounts. However, I do have one created for any news regarding my favorite actor Aaron Eckhart. I clicked on this morning, and got some disturbing information about him: he’s going to star in some big budget action spectacle called Battle: Los Angeles. It has to do with a platoon of Marines fighting extraterrestrial beings taking over the city of Angels; apparently Eckhart will lead the troops.

“Underwhelmed” and “mortified” would be the words that came to mind when I read the plot. I really don’t want my favorite lantern-jawed, cleft-chinned actor to do such a film. Why? Aaron is so much better than formulaic action movies. He’s above that.

In many ways I guess I can understand why he’d sign for such a movie – he’s been the king of independent films for so long – which don’t pay actors millions of dollars – and perhaps buoyed by his biggest success, playing Harvey Dent/Two-Face in The Dark Knight, Aaron wants to get paid! He’s 40 and it’s time to get points on the profits and all that other stuff, right?

And that’s OK; but I’m not going to lie because it looks my favorite actor in the world has gone “Hollywood.” I hope though that after filming Battle: Los Angeles, he will go back to doing what he does best, playing roles that have a certain sort of complex meanness to them, like Chad or Mr. Vuoso. Even better would be for him to reteam with Neil LaBute who put him in his first film In the Company of Men and come up with something that is reflective of today’s miserable times.

You're still my favorite actor, Aaron, but don’t stray too far from your roots.

Holly Madison, You Disappoint Me!

2008-10-28T19:17:00.002-04:00

Holly, Holly, Holly!

How could you leave Puffin? We know that you wanted to have kids with Hugh Hefner and marry him and all that stuff, but for God’s sake, he’s 82. He told you it wasn’t going to happen.

And now, you broke up with him and left him in the hands of those slutty, 19-year-old twins who have assault convictions. I am disappointed that you didn’t stay with him. He’s not going to be around for much longer, and he said repeatedly how happy he was with you. Shit, you could have found some young, male hot piece of ass and kept it quiet, while staying with Hef. It was obvious that you really did love him.

I can’t believe you are going to leave Hef. He said you can stay at the mansion as long as you want. If you are as smart as you like for us to believe, continue to live there and protect Hef from those heifers!

Sincerely,

ARBW

Poem About Kwame Kilpatrick

2008-10-28T19:05:00.002-04:00

Kwame went to jail
Kwame went to jail
Hi, ho, the merrio
The Kwame went to jail
The judge scolded you
Said you were bad
Yet you couldn’t even muster
Looking sad
Instead you smirked
And your head, you jerked
Your family cried
Cause your ass is fried
In the Wayne County Jail
You get no bail
120 days
You won’t see the sun’s rays
Nor the pale moonlight
What for?
Acting like a prick
Christine sucking your dick
Spending all that money
While cruising for new honeys
I got in trouble at work, for laughing at you
PAR said, “Now that wasn’t cool.”
TM said, “But he’s a dad.”
I shook my head, didn’t want to fight
I apologized, said I was wrong
But I had my fingers crossed behind my back
Nearly had a heart attack
Because smart people stick up for him
And worry about his kids
Well, that’s tough shit
KK should have thought of it
And decided to quit
Now’s he’s in jail
Can’t practice law
In his cell he has time to think
What will I do next
Be a teacher
Or do I want to make lots of money
I got it
I’ll be a preacher

Message to Robert Plant: F-You!

2008-10-28T18:40:00.004-04:00

Dear Robert:

So, you’ve made it clear that you’re on the road with Alison Krauss and don’t think you’ll be doing any more touring, with anyone, for the next two years. Well, isn’t that special? Once again you have dashed the hopes of millions of Led Zeppelin fans by being selfish and denying the chance to see one of the greatest rock bands that ever existed back on the road again.

Yeah, that was so noble of to get together with Jimmy, John Paul, and let’s not forget Jason, for that one of a kind performance to honor Ahmet Ertegun in London. London! Shit, we didn’t even get some sort of live broadcast. Yeah, Zep managed to check out the bootleg footage and it was very good, so good in fact, that it stoked the desire for many to shell out hundreds if not thousands of dollars if Zep were tour conduct a “proper” tour.

It is obvious that Jimmy wants to get back on the road. He still has the good, and more than likely, he also wants to be Jimmy Page, Rock God, again. Can you imagine the money, the girls, the fun, the hotels, the planes and the fans? Can you imagine the happiness and joy that would fill the hearts of Led Zeppelin fans across the world if you had said “yes” to a tour? No, you can’t imagine it, and that’s why, although many say you are a nice guy, a selfish son of a bitch in my eyes.

I hope Jimmy Page hires David Coverdale
to replace you. He did it before, and he can do it again.

Take your over-permed hair and hit the road with that bluegrass playing blonde with you, Percy!

Voters in Mahoning County, Ohio: BEWARE!

2008-10-22T15:38:00.003-04:00

I hope the black people and white people who vote Democrat on November 4th don’t have their votes destroyed prior to tallying them; and I hope they are not turned away when they get to their polling place.

I’m afraid that your vote won’t be counted. See, the Director of the Mahoning County Board of Elections is a staunch Republican. Nothing wrong with Republicans of course (remember, I love Mitt Romney), but this man is a prejudiced person. I remember him on campus at YSU talking to me and another friend of mine way back in the late 1980s, and he loved to talk about Jews and Blacks and what “they” supposedly lacked. I guess he felt he could say those things because I didn’t seem like the average black person (whatever the hell that means).

Watch your vote in Mahoning County, Ohio.

Sarah Palin Likes the Finer Things in Life!

2008-10-22T15:26:00.004-04:00

Manolo Blahnik shoes: $450.

Louis Vuitton handbag: $2,400.

Valentino jacket: $2,500.

Convincing Republican voters you're small town...priceless.

So, Sarah Palin is always talking about putting America, first, huh? Well the wardrobe on her back is all European.

Now, of course I'm not dissing the clothes. Hell, I love French and Italian designers, Dior, Versace, Dolce & Gabanna; but she sure splurged on the pricey stuff, didn't she. Look where your donations went to, McCain supporters!

My Friend Tina Casali Died

2008-10-16T14:06:00.001-04:00

My friend Tina Casali died a brutal death last week. She struggled with endometrial cancer for less than a year and died before she reached the age of 39. Her birthday would have been in December. I have never been so shocked, stunned and saddened in all my life.

Tina was well loved and well liked by everyone she met. She was popular at work for not only her sunny disposition, but also her talent as a graphics designer, which was beyond plentiful. She could do anything with her Mac computer and make it look like the works of a genius, and to be honest, she was.

She was a tall, strapping girl, who loved to have a suntan and wore her long, luxurious hair loose. She was gorgeous and the men at work adored her. She was sometimes embarrassed by their adoration, but she liked it.

Tina was also stubborn and determined – one time she broke her ankle doing step aerobics and I saw her struggling up some steps trying to enter our place of employment. I asked her if she wanted help. She said no. I asked if I could carry her book bag which was slung over her shoulders. She said no as she hobbled up the steps. Finally, in exasperation, I managed to ask, “Gee, you’re a very independent woman, huh?”

She stopped and smiled, and laughed.

“Yes. I am.”

That was Tina Casali.

I see her in Heaven now, with her father, and her late cat Enzo, sitting at her desk, working on her big MAC computer.

Rest in Peace, Tina.

I Believe in Harvey Dent!

2008-10-15T16:02:00.004-04:00

Now, I've written before about how much I think Aaron Eckhart is a fantastic person.

Could someone please tell me where the heck I can get this action figure?

PLEAAAASE!

Also, let me send a shout out to Tom at

Goodriddance, Pacman Jones!

2008-10-15T15:46:00.003-04:00

Jerry Jones tried.

He really did.

He gave Adam “Pacman” Jones a new lease on life with the Dallas Cowboys after all of the trouble Jones got into as a Tennessee Titan and what does he do? He fucks up royally. How? He gets into a drunken argument with his team-sponsored bodyguard at a swank hotel.

As a result, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell suspended Jones again this time for four games and perhaps indefinitely. If you ask me, the bastard needs to be tossed out on his country ass and never be allowed to play in the NFL again!

How many chances should this all-around fuck up be given? None, if you ask me!

First, he had a behavioral problem, then an anger management program, now he’s got a drinking problem.

If you ask me, he has a being an asshole problem. I’m so tired of these young athletes blaming their hard scrabble backgrounds for the troubles they have off the field. If you’re making millions of dollars, hire a psychiatrist for counseling and get them to write a prescription for some medicine to calm your ass down. There is no justification for such childish actions. I’m tired of black athletes making excuses for their poor choices and resulting behavior.

Thank God that Roger Goodell is now in charge; he’s taking control and telling players that their shenanigans will not be tolerated. Maybe because he’s hitting them with big suspensions they’ll realize that not playing affects them in the wallet, and will inspire them to straighten their asses out.

I doubt it, though.

Nightmare in Detroit Rock City

2008-09-05T11:27:00.002-04:00

With all credit to the Detroit Free Press, whose reporting and coverage has been absolutely masterful, I had to post this quote about Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick’s plea deal. This comes directly from the mouth of Reverend Horace Sheffield III, a long time Kilpatrick supporter …

The Rev. Horace L. Sheffield III, an ardent supporter of Kilpatrick, released a statement asking Detroiters to pray for the mayor and his family.

"This truly is not a day for anyone to rejoice, nor to be gleeful about this apparent plea of Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick and his subsequent departure from the office of the mayor of the City of Detroit," Sheffield said in his statement.

"As a father of an aspiring and promising young black man ... he and I both now have to unfortunately witness another young and gifted black man entangled within the criminal justice system."

Did you read the last sentence? Sheffield makes it sound like that KK was entrapped. No, Horace, KK created this mess on his own, with a little help from his wife and mistress. It is the mentality espoused by Sheffield that nicely sums up why black people, especially black men, can’t get ahead like their white counterparts. It’s the whole blame the white men mentality that has to stop before we can move forward as a people.

When are we going to take responsibility for our actions? This fool KK, had an affair, tried to cover it up and then lied about it on the stand during a trial. What is so hard to understand about that? He cost the city millions of dollars, money that the city barely has because of the red tape it continues to be mired in year after year.

To hear people support KK makes me sick— when are some folks ever going to learn?

Pathetic in Detroit

2008-09-02T15:30:00.000-04:00

Thought of the Day!

With all the talk about Detroit Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick possibly taking a plea deal, I wonder what his former paramour Christine Beatty is thinking right now. She’s probably going to wind up holding the bag for the mess and K.K. will pick up the pieces when this is all over.

I wonder if this Pat Benatar song is going through her mind …

Whatcha' tryin' a do to my heart?
Whatcha' tryin' a do to my heart?
You go around tellin' lies
And now you want to compromise
Whatcha' tryin' a do to my heart?
You better run! you better hide!
You better leave from my sight! yeah

Whatcha' tryin' a do to my soul?
Whatcha' tryin' a do to my soul?
Well everything i had was yours
And now i'm closin' all the doors
Whatcha' tryin' a do to my soul?

You better run! you better hide!
You better leave from my sight! yeah

I love you oh, i love you so
Can't you see it? don't you know?
I can't stand your alibis
Your tellin' lies, you drive me wild! yeah

I said, what are ya tryin' a do to my head?
Said, whatcha' tryin' a do to my head?
Well now i've gotta draw the line
Cause you ain't gonna take my mind!
What are ya tryin' a do to my head?

You better run! you better hide!
You better leave from my sight!
You better run! you better hide!
You better leave from my sight!
Let me go! yeah

I said go away, and leave me alone!
I can't stand you no more!

Aaron Eckhart: Best Actor Around and a Nice Guy Too.

2008-09-02T14:01:00.008-04:00

I’ve seen The Dark Knight three times (once in IMAX and twice at a Regal Cinema) and I can’t express how much I loved the movie. I’ve long considered Batman the preeminent superhero. Superman and Spiderman do nothing for me, and I have no desire to learn about the X-Men or Iron Man. However, I am a sucker for Bill Bixby and Lou Ferrigno as David Banner/Incredible Hulk.

Anyway, as we all know Heath Ledger was phenomenal as the Joker and Christian Bale was/is the perfect Bruce Wayne/Batman; and Gary Oldman proved once again why he is such a versatile actor following his nuanced performance as Commissioner Gordon.

However, as much as Ledger is getting heaps of praise, I think another actor deserves even more kudos, and that is Aaron Eckhart, who in the movie, morphs from Harvey Dent, Gotham City’s good hearted district attorney, into Two-Face, a psycho whose actions are dictated by the flip of a coin.

If you are unfamiliar with the work of Aaron Eckhart, I strongly suggest watching his 1997 film debut In the Company of Men. He positively shines as one mean man named Chad, who messes up several lives just because he could. He captured the smugness that happens among men in the corporate world. It was a perfect performance. As much as people were horrified by Chad’s actions and his misogynistic behavior, I loved it because I’ve dealt with many men like Chad in my workplace, and for some strange reason I am able to work with them the best, probably because they are no B.S. kind of guys.

That film established Eckhart as someone who had the chops and the looks to carry off such a role, but he really turned heads when he gained more than 40 pounds to play a miserable, unhappily married man in 1998’s Your Friends and Neighbors. Watching him in that movie made me realize that Eckhart was a fantastic character actor trapped the guise of a leading man. Fortunately, he ditched the flab and went on to make some good and (not so good) movies including Erin Brockovich, The Core (blech), The Pledge (loved the mustache), and the very underrated Black Dahlia (excellent) and Meet Bill (heartwarming and funny).

Some movie critics are comparing Eckhart to a young Robert Redford and to be honest I don’t like that comparison. Hopefully, he will have a long career like Redford, but to compare him as such does a disservice. To be honest, Eckhart is a way better actor than Redford ever was. I think the comparison stems from the fact that Eckhart is blond and ridiculously handsome. However, I could never see Redford playing some of the unsavory characters Eckhart has, including the pedophile Army reservist in the upcoming movie Towelhead (see trailer below). Reading these comparisons makes me think that everyone is stereotyped in one way or the other – if a blonde actor is popular, he has to be the next Robert Redford, right? In this case, wrong. So very wrong.

Finally, another reason why I like Aaron Eckhart so much is that he seems like a very nice guy. Raised in a LDS household, he served as a missionary overseas, and then attended Brigham Young University where he obtained a degree and met director Neil LaBute who directed In the Company of Men and Your Friends and Neighbors. In his interviews, Eckhart stresses that he lives by a certain code – perhaps rooted in his faith, and he tries to be honorable both personally and professionally. I once read in a magazine how much he loved his dog, a retriever named Dirty (!) and lamented that the poor dog was getting old and having difficulty walking. Any man who could openly express such feelings for a pet, is probably the type of man who would have no problems in being honest with people either.

Well, I’m finished gushing about Aaron Eckart, and I implore movie fans to check out as many films that he’s in. He’s like L’Oreal – worth it.

P.S. Would a nice guy like him want a 38-year-old black woman who doesn’t believe in pre-marital sex for a wife? I hear he’s looking for one -- a wife that is.

In Praise of Mitt Romney

2008-09-02T13:34:00.002-04:00

Well, anyone who knows me knows that I’m a hard core Democrat – once a liberal, always a liberal. Friends have tried to convert me for years, telling me that a lot of my thought processes are actually more in line with the conservative way of thinking, but I wholly disagree.

Anyway, I’m writing this because like my Republican friends, I was stunned beyond belief that John McCain picked Alaska Governor Sarah Palin to be his vice presidential running mate over former Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney.

The question many people want answered by McCain’s inner circle is, “What the hell was he thinking?” John McCain selected a little known governor from a state all the way up in the sticks of the United States to possibly be the second in command of the country. He picked a former beauty pageant queen, a woman who gave birth to a child with Down’s Syndrome and went back to work three days later, and is vehemently pro-guns, anti-abortion and anti-stem cell treatment to be his number two – WTF?

Yup, he picked this no-name broad with her over-plucked eyebrows and soccer mom garb over a seasoned businessman, scion of a political family and former CEO of one of the most affluent states in the country! The only reasons I could think as to why McCain snubbed Romney are two fold.

Player hater syndrome – face it, John McCain doesn’t seem to be a man who could put up another man who appears more powerful than him, and let’s face it, when Mitt Romney stands next to him, who looks far more attractive, more virile, and far more like a Commander In Chief? My vote goes to Mitt.

Mormonism – yup, Mitt’s a Mormon, and this is something I’ve debated with my mother about since the presidential campaigns began last year. My mom is not a big fan of religion. She was raised Catholic and attended Catholic schools – she remembers all those Latin prayers and does not have fond memories of the abusive nuns. So when the hubbub began in the press about Mitt being a Mormon she went ballistic. I said to give the guy a chance. She railed about what kind of religion is based on gold plates. I said what kind of religion is based on the concept of a virgin birth. Man, that shut her up fast. It’s funny how the right panders to evangelical Christians but showed little tolerance for Mitt’s beliefs. Not cool.

Anyway, as much as I’ll always be a Democrat, I wouldn’t have minded seeing Mitt Romney around. I like him and he seems noble enough. Too bad McCain couldn’t have put the interests of his own party ahead of his ego.

On My Mind

2008-08-22T10:40:00.002-04:00

I’m finished with walking on eggshells to keep on people’s good side. They assume things about me or think that I have done something when I haven’t. I’m tired of having to appease people all the time. It seems that all I have done my whole life is appease people – my mother, my boss, and my friends. Everyone wants me to consider how they feel, when no one asks how I feel.

Now, there are lots of people who complain, and they complain everyday, but no one gets on them for complaining. But for some reason it is OK to get on my ass when I try to be a positive person and give encouragement to others along with love and consideration. I never get the same thing in return. I am always bending to other people’s will or demands, and from now on I will no longer do so.

In other words, I don’t care anymore. I am not a troublemaker, a liar or a cheat. However, I do have type-A tendencies. If people can’t accept me for the way I am, oh well.

This is Why Young Black America is Messed Up

2008-08-05T18:02:00.004-04:00

When I see the face of Lil Wayne, it scares me because many young men and women think he is a great talent. I think he is disgusing. He brags about his pill and codeine habit, and is often seen walking around taking swigs of cough syrup to get high.

Disgusting.

Get Rid of This Gal Steven Tyler!

2008-06-25T19:15:00.004-04:00

This "woman" is trash, Steven, pure trash. Are you so lonely that you would take up with this golddigging broad?

Jeff Goldblum Is Perfection

2008-06-19T14:12:00.000-04:00

I've loved him since Tenspeed & Brownshoe!

Kendra Wilkinson Is Cool

2008-06-16T16:04:00.003-04:00

One of my first columns or rantings on this blog was about how I love the show The Girls Next Door. To this day I am still a fan – I own each season on DVD, I have the 2008 calendar, and read magazines in which there are articles about Holly, Bridget and Kendra. I, along with many others, eagerly await the next season.

However, my opinion has changed about one thing: When the show first started my favorite of the three was Holly Madison, Hef’s “main” girlfriend (Bridget is considered within the mansion to be number two, and Kendra is number three). Holly was my favorite because she appeared to have a great deal of common sense, was practical, and truly loved her “Puffin” (her nickname for Hef). My least favorite when the show started was Kendra because to be honest, I thought the girl was dumb as a box of rocks. I wondered if she ever read the paper, a book, or heck, knew who the Governor of California was. She came off as being really ditzy, and some of her past wardrobe choices only added to my thoughts.

Now, things have changed, and Kendra has become my favorite of the three. Weird, huh?

She seems to realize that life at the Playboy mansion will be a fleeting one and had made preparations for life after she leaves. She bought a condo in San Diego, has lucrative club hosting gigs, and most importantly, has changed her appearance in subtle for noticeable ways.

First, she toned down the platinum blonde hair and it is now more of ash blonde. She looks beautiful. Secondly, she has changed how she dresses, when she goes to a gala with Hef and the other girls, she is now, more often than not, the best dressed. Her outfits usually coordinate with her hair or makeup and her accessories are just right. In fact, it could be said, Kendra now looks downright classy. And third, and finally, she doesn’t seem to be jealous of the other girls. Holly is no longer my favorite because it seems as the show has continued, her jealous streak has become more obvious in subtle ways. Often the editors will catch her reaction to a comment, or a potential Playmate, but usually she is caught off guard when it comes to Kendra. Holly, it appears, barely tolerates Kendra and I think the reason is obvious. Kendra is what you’d call a natural beauty, while Holly endured several cosmetic procedures to be the beauty she is now. In fact, Hef has said Kendra, is the prettiest, but Holly is his love.

So Kendra Wilkinson, I give you kudos for your evolution and hope you continue on a successful path. Now, just start reading some books and the newspaper, don’t get a big head, and the sky is the limit!

That's (Not) So Raven

2008-06-16T15:11:00.004-04:00

Dear Raven-Symone:

You’ve made a lot of money for Disney and in turn, your reaped a great deal of financial rewards, too. Your fortune has been estimated in the hundreds of millions of dollars.

With that in mind, would it hurt you to lose some weight and start to dress appropriately?

Yes, you’ve got big boobs. Very big boobs. So large in fact that you look very top heavy in proportion to the rest of your body. As a result, when you wear certain tight clothes, you look very uncomfortable in them. There is something called a breast reduction that might help your appearance and your back (I bet it hurts like hell sometimes).

Call me a shallow girl, so what.

Second, lose some weight and keep it off. I’m going get my ass kicked for saying this, losing a few pounds (well more like 20 or 30 actually) would be of great benefit personally. Carrying extra weight leads to joint problems, heart problems, high blood pressure and diabetes, even for young people. Think about it.

And finally, hire a stylist who knows how to dress your body. I don’t know who picks out your clothes, but damn, it’s a crying shame that every time you’re on television or in the magazines your clothes are well, cheesy.

Now, c’mon Raven you’ve got the world at your feet. Dress like it.

Sincerely,

ABRW

WHAT THE FUCK IS WRONG WITH PEOPLE??

2008-06-13T15:17:00.002-04:00

He was on videotape pissing on a 14-year-old girl and is found not guilty?

Who the fuck was on this jury? The O.J. Simpson trial jurors?

Can we say "short eyes?"

Tigers, Oh My!

2008-06-12T19:45:00.002-04:00

I love these two! Enough said.

Detroit Radio Sucks!

2008-06-11T21:37:00.001-04:00

Here’s another reason as to why Detroit is going down the shitter: its radio stations suck.

The newest victim of the idiocy of Detroit’s radio wars is WCHB. Located at 1200 on the am radio dial, the Radio One owned station recently dumped all of its talk shows, including the syndicated Warren Ballentine and Al Sharpton shows, along with local broadcast from Pulitzer Prize winning journalist Angelo Henderson and sports personalities Mark Wilson and Rob Parker. All that exists now on WCHB is the morning show with legendary talker Mildred Gaddis, followed by non-stop “inspirational” music.

Like I want to hear gospel all fucking day. The great majority of Detroiters are a misinformed bunch, so these radio shows were important in educating people about happenings on a local, state and national level. I’m still scratching my head over this.

However, WCHB’s changes are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to Detroit radio.

The WRIF, which used to be one of the best hard rock stations in the country, has gone soft over the past couple of years; and with the recent departure of morning show star Drew Lane, the former co-host of Drew and Mike, has only made a sad situation more pathetic. The WRIF used to kick ass! The station scored numerous interviews with a variety of rock stars, promoted a lot of shows and offered a variety of morning and afternoon drive activities. Now, Drew is gone; the station is stale and the play list has turned to shit. The station doesn’t break anything now. I haven’t heard the new Def Leppard, the new Whitesnake, nothing. How many times do I have to hear Kid Rock’s “Cowboy?” And I love Kid Rock!

The worst tragedy in Detroit radio right now is the demise of 97.1, a CBS station that used to be all talk radio. It was great – Howard Stern in the morning, then local talent Deminski & Doyle in the afternoon and Penn Jillette at night! For many Detroiters, life wasn’t right if D&D wasn’t on the radio during the afternoon drive home. These two had the number one radio talk show in Detroit and CBS radio screwed it up big time, first by moving them to morning and then attempting to renew their contracts with a restrictive non-compete clause. As a result, D&D left the station and must sit tight for a year before being able to move to another station. Everyone is hoping they land at the WRIF and replace Mike the morning show leftover, but I think they are actually too smart and too literate for the WRIF’s audience.

Man, I can’t believe how radio sucks in Detroit. Just awful. As a result I listen to DougFM (93.1) which plays anything and everything. In fact, as I write this, the following song is on air. No kidding.

Greg the Bunny, Where AreYou?

2008-06-10T21:54:00.002-04:00

Phil Jackson is a Whiny Bitch

2008-06-10T21:38:00.005-04:00

Watching Game 3 of the NBA finals and all he has done so far is fucking complain.

Let's get this straight, Phil:

You are sleeping with your boss, Jeanne Buss and get paid millions of dollars for coaching!
You've won 9 NBA titles.
You live in Los Angeles.
You've got all your hair.
And you still cry like a fucking baby.

Zen master my ass!

Can Someone Please Buy Me These Shoes?

2008-06-06T14:43:00.003-04:00

Beautiful, just beautiful.

Don’t Tattoo You

2008-06-06T11:15:00.000-04:00

I was in Saks Fifth Avenue the other day looking for a dress to wear at a banquet sponsored by my employer. As I milled about, deciding to go short or long; sleeves or sleeveless; black or a splash of color, I noticed a young black woman, probably in her mid 20s or so, looking at dresses, too. She was very neatly dressed and wore her hair in a simple bob. However, it was something else that caught my eye as we walked in the dressing room area. Her tattoos, which dotted both of her upper arms, marred her appearance. Seeing her brown skin ruined by a tacky illustration was such a bummer, and made me think: why in the hell are all these black people getting tattoos?

For lack of a more tasteful phrase: tattoos on black people look dirty. Yeah I said it. Every time I watch an NBA game I see all these damn players with ink up and down their arms and necks and I want to scream. I want to shake them by their shoulders and holler, “You look dirty, and you look like you need a bath! Ugh. Scummy and nasty!” I sound like a bitch but it’s true.

And for this, I blame Alan Iverson for this mess. Players in the NBA were mostly a clean cut looking bunch until he came around. It seems week by week “idiot boy” (as I like to call A.I.) added more and more ink to his arms and torso until he looked like a human scribble pad. Combine the tats with his cornrows and shitty attitude and what do you get? The introduction of “thug culture” in the NBA.

From then on it seems there was an influx of tattooed hoopsters. Even Lebron James has ink up and down his arms which looks ugly and ruins his wholesome image. James’ teammate Delonte West, has gone too far, with ink running up to his neck! Shit, it looks bad. I hardly watch Cavs games because I don’t want to look at his inked-up ass.

And ladies – here’s a warning for you – stop with the tattoos. Putting your baby’s name, your name, or your baby daddy name on your arm, breast, thigh or abdomen looks vile and ignorant, and the money you spent on those tats could have gone into a savings account.

By the way, did I mention I love tattooed rockers like Nikki Sixx and Josh Todd?

Oh well.

What About Siegfried?

2008-06-06T10:15:00.002-04:00

I love celebrity tell-all books; they are my respite from serious reading. However, I was very upset a by a new tell all, “The Secret Lives of Siegfried and Roy: How the Tiger Kings Tamed Las Vegas,” written by three former employees of the dynamic duo.

The book is a hodgepodge of personal experiences woven with quotes taken from tabloids and other sources before and after Roy Horn’s on stage accident in 2003. To refresh your memories, a tiger named Montecore bit into Roy’s neck and dragged him off stage. As a result, Roy suffered a major stroke that left him partially paralyzed on his left side. He has since regained a degree of mobility and continued arduous physical therapy.

Well it seems these employees were given the heave ho back in 2005 and since then, they’ve been out for blood – predominately the blood of Roy’s partner of 50 years Siegfried Fischbacher. The book portrays him in an unflattering light – according to the authors Siegfried has a bad temper, control issues and is prone to violence. They particularly enjoy writing about his alleged bad behavior following Roy’s accident and his alleged meddling in his partner’s medical care. Throughout the book, they simply refer to Siegfried as “the Aryan.”

I don’t think that is right. It’s obvious that these “authors” have an ax to grind with Siegfried via their numerous allegations. What strikes me most is that no one seems to think about how Roy’s accident affected him. Of course, the mental and physical pain Roy suffered are indescribable and only the truly naïve would even try to imagine what he goes through everyday, but what about Siegfried? I give him all the credit for keeping it together. Imagine seeing your partner severely injured and confined to a hospital for months, unable to eat, walk, or talk? Imagine your livelihood – your job, your career ending without notice. One minute you're the King of Las Vegas and then, nada. Siegfried and Roy didn’t end their career triumphantly, it was tragically.

I’m sure the tabloids and the gossip shows are going to have a field day with this book, and it is unfortunate because the information in it is very one dimensional and fails to consider the circumstances which dictated some of this alleged behavior.

By the way, here some footage of a very dignified Siegfried deflecting Baba Wawa's tasteless question about his relationship with Roy.

Humble Pie

2008-06-04T10:34:00.000-04:00

This morning I am eating a lot of crow and a lot of it too. It isn’t very tasty.

Barack Obama is the Democratic nominee for the presidential race in November. Now I have to vote for him because I realize that voting is a privilege, not a right, and because the bloom is off the rose for John McCain, I’m going to have to cast my vote for Barry O.

I just hope that he picks Senator Hillary Clinton as his vice-presidential running mate if he truly has the goal of uniting the Democrats. There are a lot of pissed off Clinton supporters like me out there but we have to think of the greater good and get the Republicans out of the White House. White, black and brown people who want the U.S. to rise up again must join together to create a better tomorrow.

I have to go eat some potato chips now. They always make me feel better.

Flip Saunders=Good; Pistons=Bitches

2008-06-04T10:22:00.000-04:00

Why is it that punk ass NBA players never suffer the consequences and the coaches take the blame? Case in point: Flip Saunders, the ex-coach of the Detroit Pistons who was fired earlier this week.

I don’t blame Flip for not getting the Pistons another ring. I blame Rasheed Wallace and Chauncey Billups – with most of the blame going to the former. I can’t believe for as much money as Rasheed makes, he can’t control his ass and listen to his coach. Rasheed is, to put it bluntly, a crazy bitch. Crazy because he can’t control himself when it comes to getting technical fouls, and a bitch because he just couldn’t act mature and show his coach some respect. Chauncey Billups, in my mind, may be the star, but he is not a leader. He doesn’t have the “killer” instinct like some other NBA stars have. Chauncey has to be led around by the hand in order for him to get the job done.

Joe Dumars, of course, as laid back as he is, finally pulled the trigger, but waited way too late. And now, poor Joe D. is mad. He has such righteous indignation right now. He’s so disgusted. Now everyone is to blame, he said to the press.

However, Joe D. needs to look in the mirror and realize that his passive-aggressive behavior is just as much of a valid reason for the Pistons inability to win the big one.

Get Well Steven Tyler

2008-05-28T09:49:00.000-04:00

Dear Steven:

You are a wonderful and talented man.
I still remember how kind you were to me when I met you back in December, 2006, backstage at Joe Louis Arena.
You have a kind and giving heart.
I hope you get better and maintain your sobriety.
However, you should get rid of that girlfriend of yours.
She loves being a rock star’s girlfriend a little too much.

Ode to Daryl Hall

2008-05-26T18:42:00.000-04:00

Daryl Franklin Hall
What a wonderful man
Wavy blonde tresses
Eyes so bright and blue
But what is most wonderful about him
Is a voice that rings so true
You’re ageless
And so very creative
Why must people qualify your talent
Simply based on race
Being white shouldn’t matter
You are the best soul singer
In the world

Leave Tommy Alone!

2008-04-17T13:36:00.000-04:00

God, I feel like that Chrissy Crocker, who made that over the top You Tube video imploring people to “Leave Britney Alone!” Hysterical as it was, it had a point. And so, that’s why I’m asking KISS fans to stop with the Tommy bashing.

For the uninitiated, Tommy Thayer is KISS’ latest lead guitarist, and he is dressed in Ace Frehley’s makeup and costume. KISS fans have a real issue with that, referring to him and drummer Eric Singer (who now wears Peter Criss’ famous Catman makeup) as “scabs.”

I don’t think it’s fair. It was Ace who walked out of the band in 2002 and missed some interesting stuff such as the co-headlining gigs with Aerosmith, the Melbourne Symphony gig (Peter even came back for those two tours) and the Rock the Nation tour. It was Ace who said he didn’t want to come back. That he was done with KISS and wanted to restart his solo career.

Back in 1996 as the Reunion Tour was being planned, it was Tommy who taught Ace the guitar licks he had written – and forgotten. It was Tommy who worked hard behind the scenes to make sure the band got where it needed to go; delivered a fantastic show each night; and made sure that things ran smoothly.

So now, because of Ace’s departure, Tommy is front and center, wailing on his Gibson Les Paul; and for that I don’t think he should be criticized. If you were offered the chance to play in KISS and for a good deal of money, would you turn it down?

Hell no.

Tommy Thayer is a very nice and gracious person; therefore I think he should be treated with a bit more kindness than KISS fans are offering right now.

Happy Birthday Victor Newman, aka, Eric Braeden

2008-04-03T09:39:00.000-04:00

Love this man!

Wake Up Stupid Ass Liberals!

2008-03-13T13:59:00.000-04:00

Now, do you people see why Senator Barack Obama shouldn’t be president? If you haven’t heard by now, the media, more specifically ABC News, finally did some digging and found some rather inflammatory statements uttered by Obama’s “spiritual advisor” Rev. Jeremiah Wright.

Apparently, Rev. Wright isn’t too fond of a lot of things, and in particular, the good old United States of America. According to the report, Wright has been quoted in his sermon as saying …

"The government gives them the drugs, builds bigger prisons, passes a three-strike law and then wants us to sing 'God Bless America.' No, no, no, God damn America, that's in the Bible for killing innocent people," Wright said in a 2003 sermon. "God damn America for treating our citizens as less than human. God damn America for as long as she acts like she is God and she is supreme."

And here’s some more for you…

My poor 70-year-old mother is about to have a heart attack, partly because she’s ecstatic that the media has finally decided to collectively grow some balls and dig a little bit more into Obama-world; she’s also upset because black folks and white liberals are not getting the picture.

In my mother’s own words, “White people think they are being so liberal about Barack Obama by voting for him, and they haven’t even looked into his past. I’m so glad people are going to hear this shit-filled rhetoric from his preacher. Do you know the preacher retired and Obama put him on his election advisory board? I guess that is payback, right?”

“This man [Obama] has no experience whatsoever, and we can’t have him in office! The country is going to hell in a hand basket and we can’t have him as president just because black people and liberal whites think it’s ‘cool’ to vote for him.”

Take it from my mother, folks, she is right.

Sexy MF of the Month: March, 2008

2008-03-13T10:43:00.000-04:00

Tony, Tony, Tony! Delicious, like vanilla ice cream.

Paul Stanley Doesn't Care Anymore, But I Do!

2008-03-13T10:16:00.000-04:00

KISS has always been my favorite band. The music, the costumes, and the make-up have entranced me since the tender age of 7.

Despite the various ups and downs in the band I’ve always been loyal and a staunch defender and would (and still will) go toe to toe with anyone who tries to diminish KISS’ contributions to music and entertainment.

However, right now I am pissed. I’m pissed because of a recent interview with band co-founder Paul Stanley who said he can now imagine a time when he is no longer in the band. To hear him talk like that sickens me. He is the glue that holds KISS together. He is the best singer and the best songwriter. I can’t believe that he is so fed up that he would walk out on the band he helped co-found almost 40 years ago without at least trying to go out on top.

Throughout the years he has sworn up and down that when KISS does hang up their platforms it would be on top and with an event that would blow everyone’s minds.

Now as the band celebrates its 35th anniversary with a series of concerts in Europe, Australia and the U.S. to follow later, Paul seems to not care anymore. And that is sad because for years he was the one who cared the most. He was the one who put in the most effort to make sure fans got their money’s worth. Now, he shows up for a press conference out of shape (very shocking), and seemingly, indifferent to what has happened to KISS.

I suppose, in a way, he has a right to act like this. He’s now got a budding art career; talk is that he will take over the title role in “The Phantom of the Opera” in Las Vegas at the Venetian Hotel and he had a successful solo tour and record in 2006. Maybe he is finally fed up with Gene Simmons and his obnoxious behavior. I suppose after nearly 40 years Paul has had enough. He’s got a nice wife, two kids and millions in the bank.
However, as much as Paul has a right to control his own destiny, I can only ask that he not leave without a proper goodbye.

The only way to save KISS may be for Gene to eat a lot of humble pie and vow to make things right again. I doubt Gene could do that now, because well, he’s Gene Simmons, and we’re not.

Here is one of my all time favorite Paul moments ...

I Love Black People, But I Hate N%^^&#!

2008-03-12T12:18:00.000-04:00

It's days like this that make me want to scream because black people, we are very fucked up if we approve this sort of shit. Watching the Kwame-tsunami hit the stage last night to proselytize to his minions made me sick. Hell, it made my aunt, who has colon cancer and a pacemaker, even sicker.

I hope the people of Detroit are smarter than what Kwamster gives them credit for. Backed into a corner, faced with numerous criminal charges that are coming, he whips out the race card in such a cavalier manner it is nauseous, and also insulting. He insults the good people of Detroit by talking of "niggers" and "lynching" to describe what his family has endured lately.

No, Kwame, you are the reason why your family and the city has to go through this mess; you are the reason why the city is an additional $8.4 million in the hole; this is why people don't want to do business with or to come visit Detroit anymore.

Get over yourself. We have.

P.S. What the hell was Carlita wearing?

I've Come to Praise Tucker, Not Bury Him

2008-03-11T14:28:00.000-04:00

I’m a liberal who is going to miss Tucker Carlson’s show on MSNBC. Why the hell the network cancelled it, I do not know.

Yeah, he is a conservative, and I disagreed with about 70 percent of what he had to say; however, I enjoyed watching him because throughout the years, he became less of an obnoxious boor and more of a real commentator. I’m going to miss the fact that he actually listened before he opened his mouth. I’m even going to miss his perfect, wavy hair, and even his silly bow ties.

Most of all, what I’ll miss about Tucker Carlson was the fact that he had a sense of humor. Unlike other conservative talkers like Glenn Beck (yuk) and Rush Limbaugh, Tucker had a great sense of humor and could poke fun of himself and even the conservative ideology that he supported.

Watching him offered me the opportunity to learn about the other side. What is at the top of the conservative agenda and what Republicans plan to do in order to accomplish the party’s goals?

As much as I lean to the left, I’m very disappointed at the direction MSNBC is heading – Keith Olbermann is a drag; I preferred him on ESPN; and Dan Abrams needs to just shut up instead of running his mouth all the damn time. And why the hell is that misogynist Joe Scarborough still on television?

My mother thinks I’m nuts for being a fan, but I’ll miss you Tucker!

Much better, Gene.

2008-03-11T13:08:00.000-04:00

I think you are punking the press, but hot damn! I love the bald look, Gene!

They Deserve Each Other

2008-03-11T13:00:00.000-04:00

Ah, two people who have become rich and famous from ripping off Latino and African American culture; and in turn have become obnoxious, posturing, pious cretins.

I used to love Madonna way back when. I thought she was cool and could craft a great dance tune. However, when she decided to forsake her Midwestern roots she disappointed me. She forgets that she made it on her back literally – Jellybean Benitez, Nile Rodgers, Dan Gilroy – all very influential music men who saw something in her.

Now, she’s nothing but a blowhard and a pretentious one at that. Poor Guy Ritchie – I remember when he was on his way to becoming the British Quentin Tarantino. Now, he’s emasculated.

And Justin Timberlake is nothing but a misogynistic, no talented hack who has nothing better to do than criticize his former girlfriend, who struggles with mental illness.

Strange Ways

2008-03-10T20:50:00.000-04:00

Why do you want a whore?

Am I too much of a bore

For you?

Or is it the color of my skin

That stops you from letting me in?

I just want to nurture you

To take care of you

Keep you on the straight and narrow

Do you think so less of yourself that

You can’t accept

A good woman?

People see the bad

I only see the good

I can’t help it

After all this time

I still love you

The future of black America.

2008-03-05T08:37:00.000-05:00

Ooh child, I sure just love me some Kwame Kilpatrick.

He was raised so well.

Look at his mama.

What a class act.

Sarcasm mode turned off now.

Goodbye Fascist!

2008-03-05T08:25:00.000-05:00

Goodbye Mike Huckabee.

And to your evil ways.

Control lives.

Dominate women.

Hate gays.

In the name of Jesus Christ.

Go back to the South.

Shut your mouth.

And put your dog-killing son.

In the nut house.

Wave your Bible.

End the nomination race.
.
You are nothing but Hitler.

With a clean cut face.

Thank God people are smarter.

Than what I think.

Goodbye Mike Huckabee.

All of us liberals.

Are going to have a drink.

And raise a glass.

The great hope of the Christian Right.

Has fallen on his ass.

Bad Girl Blues

2008-03-05T08:16:00.000-05:00

I’m a bad girl.

I’m a bad girl for my honesty at work.

I’m a bad girl for not putting up with histrionics.

I’m a bad girl for being fed up with people who are full of bullshit.

I’m a bad girl for not wanting to put up with stupidity.

And indecision.

And megalomania.

And long ass lectures.

And screaming.

For not playing the game.

Anymore.

So I get my degrees.

I’m on number three.

I plot.

I plan.

One day I will leave.

For my place in the sun.

Great job Ace!

2008-03-05T08:07:00.000-05:00

Stay sober; I'm very proud of you. I love you.

Why I Really Hate the Liberal Media in 2008

2008-03-05T07:43:00.000-05:00

I used to be a member of the so called “Liberal Media.” And I used to defend it vociferously.

Not anymore.

Since the race for the Democratic presidential nomination has heated up, the media’s coverage of it has become quite putrid.

I think the media is afraid of criticizing Barack Obama at all because they are afraid they will be called racists. I, being black, have no problem calling out Senator Barack Obama for the pretender that he is. What plan does he have for stimulating the economy, creating jobs, ending the mortgage crisis and getting people off the dole? What plans does he have for financing higher education? Getting computers and books into the hands of the children who need them desperately so as to receive the best education possible and in turn to keep America competitive with countries like Japan and Germany? Who's he going to appoint as Secretary of State? Oprah??

Has everyone forgotten how good things were when the Clintons were in power? I’m so sick of people complaining that “We’ve had over 20 years of Bush and Clinton. We need change." Some guy said that at the hair salon the other day and I jumped out of my chair, sopping hair and all!

If I hear the word “change” one more time I will fucking vomit – Linda Blair style – all over my laptop. Change? We need change all right! We need to change and have a president who has the best interest of the country at heart, who has been exposed to live in the White House, the Senate and even the governor’s mansion. We need a president who can work with everyone, yet still be strong in getting plans underway to change this country. We need a president who isn’t the puppet of a talk show host. We need a president who has the balls to stand up to idiotic “Christian” conservatives who want to take this country back into the dark ages.

That change is Hillary Clinton. She has proved over and over what she can do and will do as president. She will work with everyone. She will tap the minds of current leaders, old leaders and leaders who perhaps don’t share her ideology, but can lend an ear and offer ideas.

Why don’t we get to hear about all the good things she has in store as ``President of the United States? It is because the fucking liberal media, of which I was a member for 10 years, are so enamored, so hypnotized by Obama that they can’t see straight and provide objective coverage. Television newscasters and reporters seem to be afraid of asking Obama any hard hitting questions about his past or his voting record.

Why?

Whenever he is asked a “difficult” question, Obama takes on a haughty, offended tone, as if the question is beneath him. His righteous indignation makes me sick. Senator Clinton is asked question after question about her voting record, past and present, in addition to still fielding inquiries about the Lewinsky scandal, and she answers them. She doesn’t feign righteous indignation, or refuse to comment, unlike Obama who comes across sometimes as a bitchy, snarky person (and don’t let me get started on Michelle and over overplucked eyebrows).

Americans, you are not getting the news coverage that you deserve.

Hey, Black Woman! Pay Attention!

2007-12-29T18:56:00.000-05:00

If some young women would pay as much attention to personal development as much as they do on getting their hair and nails done “just right,” we would be so much better off.

Now everyone likes to look good – unless you’re a granola munching hippie who thinks that being concerned about one’s appearance is a bit too pretentious and takes away from more important things like saving baby seals or hugging trees. A majority of people want to walk out of the house smelling good and feeling and looking great. However, being too concerned about whether your outfit matches completely or your hair is perfectly shellacked and combed and colored, is quite detrimental to oneself.

And why is it that so many girls will think nothing of spending hours to get their nails painted the right shade of red instead of hitting Borders and buying a book – and reading it? Why is such valuable time wasted? Because whether we want to admit it or not, women, especially black women, are very competitive with each other.

I see it every day at work. The women are constantly talking about where they got their newest outfit, who did their nails and in what color, and what they plan on buying next. As much fun as it can be to talk about style once in a while, to do it incessantly becomes a great bore.

I think black women and black girls use their hair and their clothes as a status symbol – they use their appearance to project what they think they are – or even more – what they want to be. Is she a preppy, or a diva, glamour girl, or a hop hop wanna be? They say clothes make the man, but in this case, clothes define the woman. We use clothes, hair, and shoes to let people know how we want to be perceived.

Of course, there is nothing wrong with that in smaller doses (I can’t go out without lipstick and high heels), but to supercede all other aspects of one’s life with fashion is just plain dumb. Is looking good in Seven jeans going to help you get an A in math? No. Is stomping around everyday in Gucci stilettos going to get you an MBA? No. Is having your hair sprayed until it doesn’t move going to get you the job you want? No.

If we, as women, would learn to groom our minds first and our bodies second, life would be so much better.

(Un) justified Behavior

2007-12-20T09:34:00.000-05:00

Apparently Justin Timberlake has opened a soul food restaurant and it's turning out to be very popular, and as much as I love a good plate of greens, cornbread and pork chops, I’d rather have my eyes gouged out with a hot poker than to put money into the pocket of an ass like him.

As talk of the Super Bowl begins to swell, I am still angry over the brouhaha of a few years ago when during the nationally televised halftime performance Timberlake “accidentally” ripped Janet Jackson’s top a little too hard, exposing her pierced breast. This act of moral high treason led to record fines being levied on CBS by the FCC, and a crackdown on “perceived” obscenity on the airways. This is why Howard Stern packed his bags and went to satellite radio.

Poor Janet took the rap and Justin Timberlake professed to be “shocked and appalled” by what happened; as a result, she was treated like a pariah, wearing her piercing like a scarlet letter – the Hester Prynne of pop culture. As a result, her career hasn’t been the same – an album tanked, and she’s only made a few movie appearances. Timberlake, however, continues to be the great white hope of pop music, selling millions of albums and concert tickets, and lining up endorsement deals left and right, all the while appearing in videos with rappers and bopping all over the world.

And who do we have to thank for that? Stupid ass people, including a lot of black ones who continue to support this clown. I wish black people would have raises as much of a fuss over the inequitable treatment of Janet Jackson as they did over Michael Vick being railroaded by “the man” for killing and torturing dogs.

No, no, no outrage over Janet being treated as a scourge while the scales of mass popularity tilt heavily in Timberfake’s (you read that correctly) favor.

I wish we had stood behind her like many people did for a man who butchered his ex-wife, or a man who likes to pee on young girls for fun, but alas, that would make too much sense, right?

Shame.

Wake Up Everybody!

2007-12-19T11:44:00.000-05:00

Mike Huckabee scares the living hell out of me.

Yeah, yeah, he should be commended for losing a ton of weight, and he really digs playing the bass, but in interviews, he sounds like a bit of a fascist … and I’m not joking either.

For those who have never heard of the word “fascist,” here’s the definition straight from Webster’s. Other famous fascists include Benito Mussolini and Augusto Pinochet and that guy from Austria named Hitler. If you have never heard of these people, Google them (and shame on you)!

Here’s what Mike said about AIDS victims back in 1992, straight from the Associated Press … it seems that he wanted to isolate them from the rest of the world:

"If the federal government is truly serious about doing something with the AIDS virus, we need to take steps that would isolate the carriers of this plague," he wrote. "It is the first time in the history of civilization in which the carriers of a genuine plague have not been isolated from the general population, and in which this deadly disease for which there is no cure is being treated as a civil rights issue instead of the true health crisis it represents."

HMMM. Concentration camps for sick people. Interesting.

However, during this year’s presidential campaign, Mike changed his tune, just a bit …
"Fifteen years ago, the AIDS crisis was just that, a crisis," he said. "There was still a great deal of, I think, uncertainty about just how widespread AIDS was, how it could be transmitted. So we know more now than we did in 1992, all of us do -- hopefully."

Just this one train of thought that he had is scary enough, folks! I could care less about what he thinks of war, the budget, believers and non-believers – the idea to isolate a group of people because of what they have, or may be, or actually be is a frightening prospect indeed. I suggest people in the United States wake up and wake up fast, or on Inauguration Day 2009 we’ll wake up to the sounds of goose steeping jackboots on Pennsylvania Avenue.

Ode to Panera Bread

2007-12-19T10:21:00.000-05:00

Oh, Panera Bread
With your tasty meals
Yes
Salad
Soup
Sandwiches
So many choices
I find it hard
To make up my mind
But give me the usual
Half a Greek
Extra onions
Half a Chicken Pomodoro
Please make it to go
Delicious
Panera

That's the Way It Ain't

2007-12-18T12:30:00.000-05:00

Watching BET’s reality show “Keyshia Cole: That’s the Way It Is,” is like driving past a car wreck: you know it’s really tasteless to slow down and check out the damage – but it’s way to hard to avert your eyes.

That’s the best way to describe the show, which just wrapped up its second season. The show takes a look at the life of R&B singer Keyshia Cole, who has just released her second album, and has been hailed by music writers and fans as the next Mary J. Blige because of her sad sack songs and rough girl image (however, Mary has cleaned up well since). Keyshia had a rough life; her mother Frankie was a crack addled prostitute who lost custody of her kids – Keyshia wound up adopted by another family, but her sister Nefertiti (or something close to that) would up being raped as a child, and now has problems with alcohol and men (she is in fact, pregnant again). Keyshia’s mother has cleaned up her act, and her sister is trying to get it together, leading to what can only be called one very dramatic reality show.

I find it to be horrifying. I find it to be overly dramatic, confusing and demeaning. BET may publicize this show as one in which we see a family try to overcome its past, however, I see it as nothing more than pushing stereotypes that black people, and in particular, young black women, do not need to see!

Young girls may be fascinated by the life of Keyshia, with her expertly coiffed hair, manicured nails, diamonds, and white Mercedes, but it gives a false sense of reality. Keyshia Cole was lucky to escape a negative fate – her voice saved her. However, most women in her position are not singers, dancers or actresses. They are women who have serious struggles in life who are looking to feed and clothe themselves and their children.

Watching Keyshia drive around in her white Mercedes and dealing with her issues isn’t going to help anyone. I keep hearing this phrase from other women that they love her because she “keeps it real,” a phrase that should be banned from our lexicon. I don’t know what “real” is, but not being able to deal with the pressures of fame in a productive manner isn’t what I’d call something to be proud about, no matter how much money is in your wallet. Unfortunately, this show is a ratings success, and most likely will be on for several more years. I don’t know how her family will get its act together under the harsh spotlight.

How I Lost My Christmas Mojo

2007-12-17T19:33:00.001-05:00

Christmas has always been my favorite holiday. Always. It probably dates back to when my parents split up. I know that sounds weird, but the fact was when my parents were together we didn’t have anything because my father was always drinking, losing jobs and spending whatever money he had on his other women. As a result, my mother has to work several jobs, cash out my savings bonds, and sometimes we got by with melted butter on spaghetti, or Vienna sausages, and bologna.

I hate bologna.

The first Christmas after my mom and I left for Ohio was phenomenal. I wasn’t expecting much at all, but I woke up to so much stuff I nearly had a heart attack at the age of 7. I remember I got all three Charlie’s Angels dolls, outfits for them, a Barbie van, a Barbie Corvette, a Barbie house, several Barbie dolls, a Cher doll and a bunch of other stuff I can’t remember. The old, cracked Polaroids are the proof -- my smile was a mile wide and I will never forget that day. Since then Christmas for me has always been related to happiness and good cheer – people are festive, smiling, planning parties, talking about decorating the tree and what they plan to eat at dinner. I used to love to go to the malls and check out the decorations, or attend holiday themed events. I really didn’t care about what someone bought me (most of the time, anyway); I was just into that “good will to men” kind of feeling.

However, in 2007, I could care less about Christmas. The economy sucks, troops are overseas fighting a war that should have never ever happened, and people are losing their homes and jobs in the thousands each day. I am just not in the mood for the holidays and I’ve lost my Christmas mojo. I hope I get it back one day but when, I don’t know.

New Feature: Sexy MF of the Month!

2007-12-11T15:33:00.001-05:00

I wanted to call it the hot "ho" of the month, but that would have been a bit too much. For the inaugural SMF, here is Robert Plant, rock god.

All I Want for Christmas Is ...

2007-12-11T15:31:00.001-05:00

The announcement of a Led Zeppelin tour in 2008. Robert Plant is still a Golden God.

An Open Letter to Beyonce

2007-12-10T10:17:00.000-05:00

Dear Beyonce:

We know you are talented. You can sing, dance, and act. You’ve got a popular fashion line and a famous rapper turned mogul as your boyfriend. Bless your heart, for you have become quite the success.

However, I think it is time for you to pack up your lace front wigs, your low-cut gowns and false eyelashes and take a break for a couple of years. Why? We’ll, I’ve coined a term – the “Beyonce burnout.” What I mean by that is because of your never ending activities, you don’t give people a break from you. The concerts, the movies, the commercials – it’s like a Beyonce overdose. And with all overdoses, there are bound to be some residual effects.

For you dear “B,” that means fans will eventually tire of you always being in their faces.

In essence, you’ve got to go away and make the fans want to see you and hear from you again.

In essence, you’ve got to go away and make the fans want to see you and hear from you again. You must stoke the fans’ desire again for something new and fresh from you. You are running the risk of being stale if you don’t catch a breather.

There is no denying your gifts; however, if you don’t find a way to get some rest then how can you ever expand upon your creativity?

Go home, at least for a while, Beyonce.

Sincerely,

AngstRiddenBlackWoman

Some girls try way too hard!

2007-12-07T20:57:00.000-05:00

Message to Steven Tyler's girlfriend: Honey, he's the rock star, not you. Got it?

A few words on an interesting subject ...

2007-12-07T20:25:00.000-05:00

My all time favorite rock star in the world.
All though my mother hates him, I still like him.
And no, that is not me in the photo. That was taken in 1978. I was only 8 at the time. Besides, I'm not a blonde.

Vote "No"bama!

2007-12-07T15:07:00.000-05:00

Am I less “black” because I don’t support Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama? What is “black” anyway? The simple fact is that I won’t vote for him and never will, for a myriad of reasons.

First, I don’t think he has enough experience to consider a run for president – how long has he been a Senator? Not very long! But I guess he feels he’s been one long enough to go over all the country and campaign for the highest office in our country. He thinks he’s been one long enough to begin engaging in mud slinging against his competitor, Senator Hillary Clinton.

And now, he’s got Oprah Winfrey behind him, coughing up cash and lending her name by campaigning with him through Iowa and other parts of the country. I guess he’s the anointed one now, blessed by Saint Winfrey.

Sorry, Barack, I’m sticking with Senator Clinton. Why? She’s spent eight years in the White House as First Lady and trusted advisor – therefore she knows quite a bit more about politics in Washington compared to you. Also, for as much talk about her being “cold,” well, I find you, Senator, a bit on the smug side. Watching you interact with people, I’ve noticed that you’ve got a bit of a pimp walk, a strut, a certain streak of arrogance that turns me off.

Most of all, I’m voting for Senator Clinton because if she’s voted in, we get former President Bill Clinton back in office. I could care less about his personal issues; I care about the fact that he was an excellent president who cared about people, listened to them, and create policies that would help the greatest number of people. Plus, people liked him because of his background as a poor, but smart Southern boy who made good and followed his dreams and worked hard to become the most powerful man in the world who for eight years led this country to greatness.

To be honest, I don’t thing you, Senator Obama, are the man for the job. Not right now, and maybe, not ever.

Van Halen is Van Boring

2007-12-07T14:04:00.000-05:00

As many people know, my all time favorite band is KISS. However, there was a time when I was so angry I gave them up. It was in 1981, after the release of the band’s God-awful “concept” album, Music from the Elder. It was so bad I wanted to destroy every piece of KISS merchandise I owned. However, I never did so, because I had faith that Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley would get their act together and they did.

In the meantime, while I was on a sabbatical from KISS I discovered a new, exciting band. They weren’t new, but to me they were.

Van Halen.

Singer David Lee Roth, guitarist Eddie Van Halen, brother and drummer Alex Van Halen and bassist Michael Anthony were one of the best hard rock bands to ever come from the west coast, and perhaps from the United States. Ironically, they were discovered by none other than Gene Simmons, who does have an eye for talent. Thank God, however, that the band didn’t change its name to Gene’s suggestion, Daddy Long Legs.

I liked Van Halen immediately because of their hard rocking sound, catchy melodies, and Eddie’s incredible shredding, but the biggest attraction for me, was David Lee. With long flowing blonde hair, tight spandex pants, and a chiseled body, infectious sense of humor and perfect growl, David Lee Roth was probably one of the most perfect creatures I had ever seen in all of my 12 years on earth (at that time).

I would sit and watch Roth on television, and laugh hysterically. His most memorable interview he ever gave was from his apartment in Hollywood, a messy sight indeed, but very rock and roll. It was a shame when he left the band following the 1984 album, because I never got to see him live with Van Halen. I did see him performing on one of his solo tours, and even had the honor of interviewing him (and yes I got a photo). He turned out to be very nice.

But I had no use for Van Halen during the Sammy Hagar years, and the brief Gary Cherone run – I still shudder. For years I dreamed of the Van Halens and Roth reconciling and touring – as a kid I never got a chance to see them live. I didn’t have the money, and depended on my mom. And she sure as hell wasn’t going to spend that kind of cash.

Fast forward to the 1990s and the KISS reunion is in full swing – they are on the cover of every magazine in the universe – even Forbes. During that time, there was talk of a VH reunion and they even managed to appear on the MTV video awards before having a falling out again.

They finally, finally got their act together in 2007, but without founding bassist Michael Anthony – Eddie’s 17 year old son Wolfgang is keeping time with Uncle Alex instead. After a press conference that turned out well, I expected to see lots of media coverage like when KISS reunited. However, it’s been very quiet. Why? Has Eddie and Alex told David to keep his trap shut? Is Eddie back on the sauce? Why is the band so eerily quiet on the road? The shows have been getting great reviews from fans, and one would think the band would want to collectively toot their horn in the press, but alas, nothing.

I expected so much more from them than this silence.

Britney in Wonderland

2007-12-07T13:07:00.000-05:00

The Britney Spears saga is the saddest spectacle in showbiz history.
At the age of 38, I’m not ashamed to say I am of a fan of her music. The first time I saw the video for “Baby Hit Me One More Time,” I knew Britney was going to be a star. She was very pretty, could dance, had a decent singing voice, and most importantly, had very catchy songs. I thought she would be, or could be, as big as Madonna with the right album and team.

I’ve always been interesting on her career because it began at such a young age, and for the fact the she was a girl from a small town in Louisiana plucked from obscurity and dropped into the arms of fame.
Unfortunately, she doesn’t seem able to handle the situation – and all that surrounds it, very well at all.

Who’s to blame? Blame everyone – the record label, her friends, and most of all her family. The fact of the matter is that they’ve used this poor child, and do not know what do with her. The fact of the matter is that the only cure is to lock her up for a very long time. Britney Spears has severe mental problems, and perhaps a drug problem. She shows so many classic signs, but those closest to her, with the exception of her ex-husband, Kevin Federline, don’t do anything. No one is going to court to take over her affairs, no one is going to court to have her designated as mentally unstable, nothing. Instead each week we are treated to disturbing photos of her on blogs and tabloids.

It is a shame that no has finally had the guts to say “enough” and get this girl the help she so desperately needs. However, I’m afraid that they fear losing their valuable meal ticket. What they fail to realize is that the gravy train stops if Britney dies.

Jenna, Jenna, Jenna!

2007-08-23T21:34:00.000-04:00

I’m not a connoisseur of porn movies. However, I certainly know who Jenna Jamison is – for a long time she was the genre’s reining queen. During the time she sat on the throne, she made millions because of shrewdness. She owned her name, and marketed it well through a variety of films, television appearances, internet ventures and books – her autobiography How to Make Love Like a Porn Star is part cautionary tale, part Alice in Wonderland – and an excellent read.

In her television appearances, especially on her own episode of E!’s True Hollywood Story, Jenna came off as a girl with a head for business and a bod for sin (sorry, Melanie Griffith), who would wind up surviving her wild ride intact.

However, judging by what she looks like now, I’m not so sure. Gone is the voluptuous all-American beach bunny look. Now she looks painfully emaciated, overly tanned and sports lips so inflated that even Joan Rivers would have to notice.

Jenna has said in numerous interviews that she was ill for a while and she decided to live a healthier life. If being healthy means looking like you’re about to tip over, I don’t want to be a part of it.

Despite the fact that she made her living on her back – and on her knees -- I always thought Jenna Jamison was a role model in an unusual way. She did things on her own terms and didn’t follow the lead. However, with her new toothpick frame, Jenna has fallen lockstep into the “thinner is better” trap prevalent in Hollywood.

A shame.

For Me, Mr. Right is White

2007-08-23T20:52:00.000-04:00

By now you’ve probably read the various articles or seen the reports on television, more and more black women are dating white men.

My big question is what took us so long? To be honest, I’ve always dated white man, and plan on doing so. I’m going to marry a white man.

My preference for white men (blond and fair ones especially), probably resulted from the fact my father was an philandering, lying idiot who spent his money on booze, women and smokes, instead of taking care of me and my mother (yes, they were married to each other at the time). He’d go out, not be seen for days, and then show up reeking of stale cigarettes and beer – I know what beer was at the age of six because he drank Budweiser.

My mom put up with his crap for a while, and then she packed us up and headed to Ohio where her sister lived. My aunt had an ex husband who liked to beat women and two sons who were nothing but wasted talents – they were children who brought notes home from their teachers that discussed their intellectual inclinations and the passion for laziness. Great male role models, no?

Attending all white school probably played a major role in my preference for men of the Caucasian persuasion. For some reason the principal and all my male teachers who were white seemed to take me under their wings and were very kindly and nurturing – the exact opposite of what I received from my mother.

That kind of stuff a kid remembers throughout their life.

I prefer white men because they appear to me far more laid back than black men. They don’t seem to take themselves as seriously as black men do; however they are quite ambitious in a way that I admire. I think black men talk a lot; white men do a lot. Isn’t that a terribly offensive thing to say? For some people, yes; to me, no. When was the last time you saw Robert DeNiro with a blond woman on his arm. No one criticizes him for his preference for black women; so should I be criticized for my preference for white men?

Judging by recent articles and television reports, there are an increasing member of black women who are crossing over, and embracing the light (ha). CNN reported earlier this month that 117,000 black women are married to white men, according to a 2006 census survey. About six years the number hovered at 95,000.

So what do those numbers say? You be the judge.

Pretty, oh so pretty!

2007-08-23T14:14:00.001-04:00

I've Got a Kia for Sale!

2007-08-22T22:26:00.000-04:00

No wonder white people secretly throw up their hands in disgust sometimes at the behavior of black people. Case in point, Kia Vaughn, a member of the Rutgers ladies basketball team is suing Don Imus for his calling the team a bunch of “nappy headed hoes.”

Boo hoo.

Ironically the suit was filed the day Imus settled his contract with CBS and walked off with $20 million dollars.

Whether we want to admit it or not black women are going to have to put up with a whole lot of other stuff than the remarks by some aged, somewhat fried, used to be great radio talk show host.

It would have been better if Imus was asked to fund scholarships, appear with the team publicly, donate to a battered women’s shelter, or help children. No, Kia wants the do-re-mi, because she can’t get her life back to normal and she is so “traumatized.”

Help me Jesus, another black person decides to frame the rest of their life around victim hood – it is so much more lucrative spiritually – and fiscally, of course -- to do that instead of rising above their trauma and make their life productive without the boost of self-pity.

We know, we know, you are not a nappy headed ho, Kia. Therefore I am unable to comprehend why this lawsuit is so important to you – I don’t think when you graduate college and fill out a resume that the words “nappy headed ho” will appear like a “DRAFT” stamp on a Microsoft Word document.

Before hiring an attorney, did you consult with Vivian Stringer, who used the brouhaha to get herself a book deal, and numerous interviews to discuss how damaged the team was? Did you consult with her to learn how to draw out your 15 minutes of fame Kia? I bet you did.

Hearing about this lawsuit made me sick to my stomach. And to be honest I can’t believe I didn’t see it coming. In this age of “emotional distress” money is the great pacifier – money soothes, mollifies, and equalizes us. So what does it say about your self-esteem, Kia, if you have to resort to suing after being called a bad name?

Now, none of this means what Imus did was right. It was wrong, and he went too far in his attempt to be satirical – which I thought he was trying to be; however in this age of political correctness, anything you say will and can be held against you.

However, I have one thing to say to you Kia: in the words of a dear friend of mine, “Man up and stop your crying.”

Stinky Offices – Can't you smell that smell?

2007-08-09T16:21:00.000-04:00

I like the smell of my dog after he’s had a bath (“Shampoochie”), the smell of a good looking man after he showers, garlic, Drakkar Noir, Jo Malone grapefruit perfume and other stuff that is too long to list.

But I really hate the smell of potpourri, or rather those nasty fragrant candles and oils that people like to burn in the office, leaving my nose and eyes an itchy scratchy mess at the end of the day.

What is the worst is that they can’t even pick subtle scents like orange, or fresh linen, or pineapple; they buy Japanese cherry wood blossom or some other crap they picked up at the mall.

They come in all peppy and stuff talking about the candles and oils and what they want to burn in the office, never mind that they don’t even ask permission – they just do it. While I sigh, knowing that my day will be filled with a irritated nose, they blather on about how good it smells – while I slam my head on my desk in my office, knowing that the day is about to be a bad one.

“WAAAH,” as Snoopy would say.

I don’t blame people who sue their employer for allowing stinky scents. Not all perfume or cologne is soothing and tranquil and nice. Some just smell like $%^. And God forbid you actually ask nicely if that candle or burning oil could be extinguished – the rolled eyes, the furrowed brow and the high pitched “What do you mean, ‘put it out’ it’s not hurting anyone, you’re a drag” echoes throughout the office as you wind up looking like the Grinch just because you would rather go throughout life in the office without your eyes and nose inflamed.

Did you ever notice the people who bring those candles and oils into the office are the peppy ones, the ones who can immediately turn evil if you don’t like something that they apparently did for “the good of the office?” Oh, yes, they can turn on a dime, deeply offended that you’ve questioned their integrity.

So what do to about these office do-gooders, these folks who do everything for the benefit of the entire office by turning it into a stinky, cheap bordello with scents so overpowering it would kill a skunk? Short of smacking them in the face, find out what smell they hate, and find a candle or oil that you can burn and return the favor.

Why Can’t I Find a Job in Las Vegas?

2007-08-09T13:53:00.001-04:00

From the time I heard about Las Vegas from watching the show Vegas starring Robert Ulrich, I thought that dusty oasis was my kind of town. The sun, the desert, the feel-good atmosphere and all the shrimp I could stuff myself with sounded very appealing even at my young age (I was in elementary school, but I had a taste for the good life already).

I also gained an appreciation for watching shows like Merv Griffin’s when he would broadcast special shows from there and I could see people such as Lola Falana, Wayne Newton and Don Rickles – don’t ask me why, but I love old Vegas. It was so cool.

Well as I got older, got an education and thought more about where I would like to live permanently, as the Midwest snow depressed me even further, I knew there was only once place – Vegas baby. I knew I had to check it out and see if I really liked it, but couldn’t figure out when I’d make an initial visit.

Well, back in the late 1990s my friend Mike and his family decided to move out to Vegas and settle in a neighborhood bordering the posh Summerlin area. In 2000 I took a weekend jaunt out there to accompany Mike to a KISS concert at Mandalay Bay because we are both loyal foot soldiers in the KISS Army. As soon as I stepped off that Southwest plane, I knew I wanted to live and work in Las Vegas. The blue sky and desert sand was nothing short of dreamy and romantic; the people I found to be extremely nice, and the shopping and dining was incredible. I’ve visited there every year since, renting a car, and familiarizing myself with the neighborhoods and staying abreast of current events by reading both local newspapers online.

For the past 18 months I’ve been trying to score a job in Las Vegas either in communications, marketing or public relations – and I can’t win. The question I always get is “When are you moving to Vegas?” My response is, “When I get a job.” It seems I am caught between a rock and a hard place. These companies don’t want out of state people because they think they will be transients – in other words, they will come, get a job, stay for a few months then split. Well, hell judging by the name badges I see at California Pizza Kitchen at the Mirage, a lot of people who settle there are from another state.

I am also surprised that having an advanced degree such as an MBA doesn’t bring in the big bucks. Usually starting salaries hover around $40,000 for people with master’s degrees. I know I sound like a bitch, but hell, isn’t the point of getting an advanced degree is to increase one’s income. I can stay around in this hell hole called Detroit for a while longer because I make more than $50,000, but I really want to settle in Vegas.

Taking a cut in pay for a while is something that I can do, thanks to my 401k and all unused vacation pay that would be due to me if I leave. I can survive – I’m single and I don’t have kids.

Man, I just want to be in Vegas.

Stupid is as Stupid Does … a Few Words about Black Folks and Michael Vick

2007-08-09T08:46:00.000-04:00

Black people are really stupid for sticking up for Michael Vick.

I mean we do some really dumb stuff as a people, but damn, this may take the cake. Yeah, I hear the old jazz about innocent until proven guilty, but have we forgotten the term “circumstantial evidence?” Yeah, we have. Remember O.J.? There are so many things affecting our race: poverty, self-esteem issues, malaise, lack of critical thinking skills among our youth and young adults, and here we are bitching about a spoiled, malcontent millionaire quarter back who is being persecuted by the Man because of some dog fighting.

Hello? Dog fighting is inhumane, evil, vile and just plan disgusting. The best psychiatric professionals will tell you that cruelty to animals is one of the first warning signs of aberrant mental behavior. But no, we’ve turned our collective backs on every thing that has been said by respectable professionals and instead decide to champion a victim mentality.

As usual, that is what we as black folk like to do – the Man did it to us. No, the Man didn’t tell Michael Vick to buy some property in Virginia, no the Man didn’t tell him to collect a bunch of pit bulls and have them fight each other, and hell no the Man didn’t tell him to have his crazy cronies kill dogs who didn’t win.

Your dumb ass told you to do that, Mike, and no one else.

Why do black people glorify deviant behavior at its worst, and then say it is part of “our” culture? I don’t recall calling women bitches; walking around with our pants half way down our ass; rapping about gin and juice; wearing enough gold around our necks and on our teeth part of our culture. No, I consider it some stupid shit that we’ve determined to be cool. Some people argue that black youth have been force fed this garbage by the media. It is so funny when people argue this because the biggest consumers of rap music are white, suburban teenagers.

The white person who heads Viacom didn’t tell your son to act a fool; or for your daughters to spend more time on their hair than in a classroom. It was your bad parenting that led to this situation; your lack of critical thinking skills that led to this drama; and your bad sense of self that led to you thinking that it is OK to have six kids at the age of 30.

As it is, the only person who Michael Vick has to blame for his situation is himself. When are black men going to get over this sense of entitlement that is taking the race down quickly?

I Ain't Got Love

2007-08-08T15:48:00.001-04:00

Well, if you haven’t heard by now the Mirage has unveiled the latest Cirque de Soleil show, called “Love.” The show, featuring the music of the Beatles, will happen in what is the former Siegfried and Roy Theater, christened in 1990. The theater is now called the “Love Theater.”

It is safe to say I am thoroughly disgusted because the Mirage and Cirque de Soleil didn’t do the honorable thing and keep the theater’s original name as a testament to two men who have brought in nearly $1 billion in revenue over a 13 year run at the hotel. The Mirage’s success during the 1990s can be directly attributed to the genius of three men – Steve Wynn, Siegfried Fischbacher and Roy Uwe Ludwig Horn.

Now as anyone who is familiar with the politics of Las Vegas knows, cash is king, and progress has to be made. However, Siegfried and Roy’s absence from the stage isn’t voluntary; if it weren’t for the tragic series of events on October 3, 2003 the show would have continued until the pair decided to retire. Who knows when that would have been? They had talked about retirement on several occasions but still performed. Unfortunately Siegfried and Roy left the stage definitely not of their own accord. Perhaps if Siegfried and Roy had left the stage in a triumphant blaze of glory and not in a web of tragedy and injury, then perhaps I’d be a bit more amenable to changing the name of the theater. In my own warped way, I believe that if Siegfried and Roy had left the stage in the manner they deserved, I’d be more sympathetic to the Mirage changing the name of the theater.

However, feelings of sympathy for the corporate behemoths that are the Beatles, MGM-Mirage and Cirque de Soleil are absent in my head and heart. Was it absolutely necessary to rename the venue the “Love Theater?” I don’t think so. I’m sure Mirage spokesman Alan Feldman would argue – and eloquently so – that since a new show will be the focal point of the resort, it is necessary to change the name of the theater to tie in with marketing efforts, publicity, etc.

Sorry, Alan, but I think that is b%^&$%#@.

You can splay Danny (man of many plastic surgeries) Gans’ mug across the Mirage marquee and build a nightclub that draws the likes of Paris Hilton (gross) and her ilk, and try to suck in the baby boomers with a Beatles-based show whose ticket prices are so steep they make Siegfried and Roy’s ticket price look like a Wal-Mart special; but one thing the Mirage will never, ever be able to do is to regain its heart and soul because what remained of both went away with this horrible, unjustified and stupid f$%^&*+ name change.

I bet my ass will never get a job at the Mirage now, but that felt really good to say all this!

Tim Hardaway 0; Siegfried and Roy 1

2007-08-08T15:45:00.000-04:00

Oh, the delicious irony of it all. No wonder David Stern sent Timmy boy packing back to his home of hate in Florida – don’t let the door of the Southwest plane hit you too hard in the ass, Tim.

But I digress.

What remains of the bigger picture is this undeniable fact – the NBA needs Las Vegas more than Las Vegas needs the NBA, and I think David Stern finally realizes that.

Yes, the NBA now ships in foreign players, and holds exhibition games in foreign countries, broken many barriers and now sits upon the top of the professional sports world as the model league for others to follow. What else is there for David Stern and the team owners to conquer? Revenue is up, television ratings are too, and a new breed of superstars are in the wings, ready to take their place in the spotlight, smiling and shilling for Nike, Reebok, Sprite, Gatorade, etc.

However, to be honest, now that All Star Weekend is far past us, I have come to the realization that an NBA team would be the worst thing to happen to Sin City. Why? Although Las Vegas proudly wears the abovementioned nickname with a wink and a smile, everyone who has visited realizes that much of that sin is strictly controlled with rules about strip clubs, open containers, panhandling and protests – laws designed to protect not only the citizens, but most importantly the tourists who pump billions into the economy each year.

And as much as I love Las Vegas, I’m afraid that the city would be a breeding ground for thugs, thugs and more thugs if the NBA permanently set up shop there – all roaming the Strip looking for fast times and fast money. The shooting at the Minxx nightclub is a perfect example of what I am talking about – NFL player Pacman Jones is now the LVPD’s public enemy after a bouncer at the club was left paralyzed below the waist and two others were injured after he decided to toss thousands of dollars in the air at Minxx “for effect.” Now, think, what would any stripper in her right mind do if all that cash came raining down on the floor – grab it, stash it in her costume and run for the dressing room? Well, Jones didn’t take to kindly to his money being taken, so someone allegedly from his entourage decided to open fire – and three people were seriously injured.

Secondly, what about that brawl in a Wynn Las Vegas nightclub? The place has been open for two years and all we’ve heard is nice things – All Star weekend rolls around and a fight breaks out at the Wynn! The Wynn! Things like that aren’t supposed to happen at the Wynn – it’s a place for rest, relaxation and looking, well, important. I wish Steve had sicced his guard dogs on those idiots involved in the melee.

Now, some of you may read this and say, “That’s terrible to make such assumptions about people.” Yeah, yeah, go cry in your beer, will ya? I’m not some conservative right winger – I’m as liberal as they come and am not ashamed to admit it; but sometimes you have to say “Something is wrong.” In my eyes the string of bad events that happened during the festivities portend of worse things to come if Las Vegas got an NBA team. Now, to be honest, would I worry if Mayor Goodman scored an MLB team? No. A hockey team? No. And do I sound biased? Yes, I do.

Whether we want to admit it or not, people consider Las Vegas an adult Disneyland where bad things don’t happen – it’s an image that the police, casino tycoons, and corporate executives have carefully crafted, and it’s one that will crumble if the NBA comes to town on a permanent basis.

In Praise of The Girls Next Door

2007-08-08T12:42:00.000-04:00

I’ve never been a fan of reality shows, I find them to be dull, lifeless, and terribly scripted and devoid of truly interesting personalities. However, I’ve become entranced with a reality show that is highly entertaining, genuine and filled with people who have a unique position in life.

I’m addicted to The Girls Next Door,E!’s show that takes a look at the private lives of Playboy founder Hugh Hefner and his three (yup, three) girlfriends who live with him in the Playboy mansion: Holly Madison (his main squeeze – she shares his bedroom); Bridget Marquardt, who holds a Master’s degree and looks to break into broadcasting and acting, and Kendra Wilkinson, a 20-year old sports fanatic with a mouth like a trucker and a slightly ditzy countenance.

People, mostly women (like my dear, sweet, 70-year-old mother), are horrified that I love this show. Usually, Playboy playmates aren’t exactly held in high esteem by other women (you know women love to trash other women, especially those who are young and pretty); these three appear to be genuinely nice, caring and considerate – and genuinely love Hef. When asked by people why in the world I would enjoy this show, I simply say “They all seem to be nice, and it’s cool to live in the Playboy mansion; and the girls are very glamorous. It’s great entertainment.” The response I usually get is a blistering critique of Hef and the girls – branding their lifestyle for lack of a better word, as “sleazy.”

It’s a shame that people have to make judgment calls on people whose lifestyle choices they may not agree with. That’s doesn’t mean you have to agree, but, and I may sound naïve here, if no one is getting hurt, what’s the problem? These girls seem very appreciative of all that has been afforded to them by their association with Playboy – a recent episode about Kendra’s return home to San Diego was uniquely poignant, with her saying that she never dreamed of how her life would turn out and that she was very grateful to Hefner.

Some may say this show is exploitive, and perhaps worse. However, I see the show as something else – a message to people who if they dream enough, it will come true.