Stop the Presses!

This just in. Tomorrow, July 23, hip hop artist Nas is allegedly supposed to personally hand deliver a signed petition to Fox News at 2pm Eastern time. This according to politico Michael Calderone. According to Calderone, Nas wants the talking heads at Fox News to "stop its racist smears against the Obamas and other Black Americans." I can't say that I'm a fan of Nas, nor am I a fan of his music, but I must say I'm impressed with his move to take a stand. I guess time will tell what happens. Unfortunately that time is 2 o'clock tomorrow afternoon.... and unfortunately, I wasn't blessed with the gift of patience.

Reclaiming the Dream

Soledad O'Brien's in-depth look at being black in America. She teamed up with CNN and Essence to discuss controversial matters in the black community, with a panelist of the most influential and outspoken black experts. Such experts: Rev. T.D. Jakes; journalist, Ed Gordon and Professor Cornell West are just a few.

The Hit List

We knew it was coming and the day is finally here. The 600 Starbucks stores that are closing around the nation. Luckily my fave Starbucks spot that's less than 10 minutes away didn't get the ax, though the Texas stores were hit pretty hard. Is your store one of the locations to go? Here's the official closing list.

In Hard Times

Usually when the president interrupts my program for a special press conference I either change the channel or turn the TV off. But, considering the economic times we're in, I needed to hear just what our "commander in chief" had to say. His response to all the major lenders going under, gas prices skyrocketing, homeowners forced to foreclose on their home and Americans having to alter their lifestyle just to stay alive, his only response: "We're in hard times." Really??? Why can't he just come out and call it what it really is. We're in a recession, damnit! Stop sugar-coating it, talking your way around it just to put us (the American people) at ease. Every time I listen to this man speak, not only do I cringe and get a pain in my stomach, I have to admit that I'm always amazed at how out of touch he is with the real world. Sure, I understand that he is the President of the United States, but he could really give a rat's a$$ about us-- I'll say it again, us-- the American public. No, George Bush just doesn't care about black people, George Bush doesn't care about any of us no matter what the hue of our skin, the religion we worship or ethnic group we belong. The man just doesn't care. He talked around every question every reporter asked and I don't believe he properly answered any one question. His excuse as to why we're in the predicament we're in: "it took some time to get in this situation... and it's going to take some time to get out of it." Hmmn... imagine that. So, what does "W" plan to do to get us out of this situation? Well, he has ordered congress to lift the ban on offshore drilling so that we will not have to rely on the Saudis and Chavez for our oil. Perhaps, just maybe gas prices will attempt to trickle down. What else is he planning to do? Um... nothing. Out of the one hour and thirty minutes (give or take), I did not hear any other resolution to our failing economy. He basically said, America, you're on your own. At least he complimented us and said that we are smart enough "... to know how to balance our checkbooks." Why thank you Mr. President. So, basically we will carry on just as we've been doing: filling our tanks half full, because we can't afford to fill our cars up anymore, turn our A/C off when we leave the house for a significant amount of time, drive less, and conserve. Well blow me down, because I did not need "W" to tell me something that I already know. Having said all that, W said that he's optimistic that the economy will turn around. Well, since I can't afford to take a vacation, or fill my tank up, or send my child to college (OK... I don't have a kid, but I empathize for those who do), the only thing I can afford to do is be optimistic.

'A Dream Deferred'

Was it so wrong for me to have just the slightest of an inkling of hope that America could be under the administration of the democratic party for the next four years? Was it wrong to finally believe that, yes, we could finally have our first black president? So much for that dream... it's festering like a sore and oozing down the drain. I won't go as far to blame the July 21st New Yorker cover, but I won't dismiss the fact that thanks to cartoonist Barry Blitt, a lot of misinformed American people are only going to see the cover and think, "I was right about Obama. He's a card-carrying, Bin-Laden loving Muslim." And what in the world is that image of Michelle all about. Is she supposed to be the "angry black women" that so many demure white women believe her to be? Again, misinformed America will not bother to read the 18-page article and they will not get the satiric message the cover is trying to convey. That's right, the editors of the New Yorker are saying that the cover is purely satire (what this country is based on). Funny, I thought this country is based on life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. Well, I for one totally know what satire is, and as I recall, satire is supposed to be funny and make one think. Well, I'm not laughing and I think this is the most offensive piece of garbage I've laid my eyes on all month. But, it is only the middle of July and there's still a little more than three months left until election day. My guess is it only gets worse from here on out. I wonder which editor at the New Yorker is also a paid member of John McCain's campaign. Because whether or not the New Yorker is a magazine that is predominantly read by liberals, you can best believe now more right wingers will be picking up a copy at their local newsstand now. (Shaking my head in utter disgust!) But, still, the naive little girl in me still believes that a change will come... someday. It may not be today, tomorrow, or hell November 4th... but someday. Without hope, we've got nothing... So, keep hope alive!

'God Don't Like Ugly...'

... 'Don't bite the hand that feeds you,' 'Don't burn bridges...' Need I go on? I'm sure Grey's Anatomy co-star, or should I say ex co-star, Katherine Heigl would rather I not. Talk about somone whose head has gotten way too big for her body. Fans of the hit ABC drama series will recall the new bride recently pulled herself out of the running for this year's Emmy award race for best-supporting actress in a television drama. Her reason, because she didn't think the writers wrote good material for her character, Izzie Stevens last season. Can you say ungrateful Bi-otch?!!

According to a source, Grey's creator and executive producer, Shonda Rhimes, is P-O'd! And, she wants to kill Izzie's character. That's right, graveyard dead. Other speculation is that Heigl wants out of her contract to pursue other big screen possibilities because some consider her Hollywood's new "It Girl." I'm sighing as I write this. Every one's entitled to their own opinion, right?

So, I guess we'll find out if Izzie will see the "on-screen" light come October. She used to be my favorite character on the show, now I just want the bi%&@ gone. But, hey, that 's just me.

Vintage Revival

What goes around always comes around. In this case I'm not talking about karma, I'm talking about fashion.

If you're ever in California in the Sherman Oaks area, check out Revival Vintage. You may be familiar with the store's owner. For all you "Different Strokes" fans, you probably remember Arnold's arch-nemesis, Lisa Hayes. Well, little miss Lisa's real name is Nicole "Nikki" Swasey and she's pretty much left show biz and traded in her SAG card for an entrepreneur title. Some of her clients and biggest fans are writer and creator of CW's "The Game" and "Girlfriends," Mara Brock Akil; the star of "The Game," Tia Mowry; "Access Hollywood's," Shaun Robinson; and Ananda Lewis.

Revival Vintage

13940 Ventura Boulevard

Sherman Oaks, CA 91423

Store Inquiries: 818 783 8400

Photos courtesy: www.stealstyle.blogspot.com

Thank God it's Friday...

... and I'm as happy as a fat kid in a candy store. I tell you what, today could not have gotten here fast enough. I'm just plain 'ole tired, sleep deprived and weary. I'm in a great mood, despite having no energy at the moment, but the subject matter of this entry, unfortunately, does not reflect my mood.

I know everyone has read and heard the idiotic remarks spoken by the sacrilegious Jesse Jackson (I'm being nice)... so I won't go into it today. Besides, I'm about a day late and dollar short with that one. But, there is an article written by The Root blogger, Keith Josef Adkins. It's beautifully written and it totally made me think, so check it out if you haven't already. In the article he touches upon how the black community's dirty laundry at one time was only aired out in private, but now it seems as if many black people in power seem to think it's OK to air it out in a public venue. (I'm paraphrasing, but you see where this is going)? Anyway, he goes on to say that though certain negative issues about black men are always brought to the forefront, the positive should also be addressed. Agreed. Like I said, just read the article, you'll enjoy it.

But, as it turns out, it's not only issues about black men that need to be addressed. Apparently, some mothers need a good "beat down!"

As it turns out, allegedly a Houston area mother forced her teenage daughter who was five-months pregnant to take an abortion pill. The daughter, 16-year old Carla Perez, wanted to have the baby but her mother told her if she didn't take the pill she would hurt her. Afraid for her own life, young Perez took the pill, which caused her to give birth to a stillborn baby. Here's the kicker. The girl's grandmother buried the fetus in their backyard!

Galena Park police are now searching for the body. Cadaver dogs are also helping police search for the body. As of now, police have not been able to locate the body.

What is our world coming to?!

Starbucks Rocks!

Why is it the little things that make life so great? This morning was the second day in a row that I drove through Starbucks' drive-thru only to find out that they were out of my fave drink. I absolutely crave their grande chai latte, no water, thank you. So, I was deeply annoyed, not only was I not able to get my morning jolt, but I was trapped because there was a car behind me and there was a long line of cars in front of me. The barista picked up I was highly perturbed by the sound of my voice, so she politely suggested that I look over the menu while I wait in line. I have to tell you, I never bother looking at the drinks menu because it's all about the chai latte, thank you. So, what the hell, I decided on the vanilla bean frappuccino. Of course, I had to wait in line, but by the time I got to the window, my frappuccino was ready and the barista wished me a great day and told me my drink was compliments of the house because they were out of the chai. Sweet!!! It's going to be a great day! Cheers!

Who Stole My Cheese?

So, I've been living in Wichita Falls, TX for almost six months now and basically all I do here is work and sleep. Keep in mind that before I moved here I lived in Houston, the 4th largest city in the U.S., where there's diversity, art and culture and a variety of things to do. Well, Wichita Falls is nothing like that. Barely 100-thousand people, less than a 5% African American population, nothing but dry grass for miles and it's a bible belt. Sounds fun, right? Don't get me wrong, the people here are very nice, but I just can't seem do adjust here. This coming from an ex-flight attendant who's lived in various cities, have visited several states and have been all over the world. Still, this town is just not for me. So, why am I here, you might ask? I graduated in December with a B.A. in journalism. In the world of journalism, unfortunately, you have to climb the ladder to success. Not like any other profession, but usually for journalists, that means starting out in a small town to get experience and having to move around until you're in a top 10 market. My predicament, I'm 30-something and most of the people I work with are 20-something, fresh out of school and I have nothing in common with them. Outside of work, everyone is either the age of my grandparents or college age. The ones who are my age, well, they're married with kids. There is an Air Force base here, yet, I still can't seem to meet anyone. So, today I made a decision to just be more outgoing and bolder when it comes to meeting new people. Wish me luck. Damnit! I need it.

There's flawless skin underneath there

I just have to gush about this new product that I've been using for my skin. Since late 2006, I've been having major skin issues... basically a really bad case of adult acne. I chalked it up to stress due to going to school full time and the fact that business was not doing well where I was working at during that time, so I was not making any money, at all. Bills were stacking up and I stressed about how I was going to pay my rent every month. All that completely took a toll on my skin. Anyway, I was doing everything-- full body cleanses, facial masks, taking vitamins, eating healthy, and trying to drink plenty of water. None of that helped. Bottom line, for more than a year my skin continued to get worse and worse and worse. You get the point, right? So, I happened on Neutrogena Advanced Skin Solutions Complete Acne Therapy. It was under $25, and I've spent way more money on products that don't work, so I gave it a shot. Let me tell you, it's wonderful. Immediately I began to see results. You have to use it consistently, or else the breakouts will resurface. But, it has been a miracle worker for me. But the secret weapon is in this little tiny container... Good things do come in small packages. You place this mask that has tiny, little micro beads and salicylic acid on your face for 5 to 10 minutes... I sometimes leave it on as long as 20 minutes, then rinse off and you instantly reveal a new layer of glowing, clearer, smooth skin. But don't take my word; try it for yourself. Purchase it at any local drugstore. Drop me a note to let me know how you like it. Bad skin will soon be a thing in the past. How sexy is that?

Cosmo Anyone?

The count down is on for everyone who used to have "Sacred Sundays" up until 2004. You remember those Sundays... You went out and enjoyed your day until 7 o'clock. And you dared anyone to call or drop by unexpectantly because you were buried in the TV, anticipating what Samantha was going to say, or what fly outfit Carrie was going to wear. Ahhh, those were the nights. You had your girls over and in the spirit of the moment, you knocked back a few bottles of vino. Well, it's all about "girls' night out" again. I know my girls and I have been anticipating the release of this movie since we found out that the movie was in the works. We were planning to celebrate in NYC, but I had a rude awakening today when I checked flight rates and saw that a round trip ticket was $655. That's right, you read it right-- $655. That's a price for a plane ride to Europe and back. I'm sorry, but Mama is not rolling like that, especially for only a 2-day trip. Not going to happen. So everyone will be in Texas for opening night. Save the date: Friday, May 30th. Sex and the City: The Movie . Don't forget the popcorn.

Cheers! (I'm saluting with a Cosmo)

Cool Running

The older I get, the more health conscious I become. Now, I want ripped abs and sculpted legs and killer arms, but I have to admit I can't stand working out. I do, however, love the end results. So, what's the purpose of this long rant? Well, I'll tell you. But first I have to give you the back story. I'm sorry, I'm writer, and there's always a back story.

This year I was supposed to run the Aramco Houston Half Marathon, but I fell through. In my defense, I was trying to get my hands on a piece of sheep skin... My head was deeply buried in books and papers. Not really an excuse, but that's my story and I'm sticking to it.

Moving on... I've committed to running the marathon again. Half marathon, that is. But what makes this challenge bearable, I, along with one of my best friends and one of my cousins have decided to run it together. So, we've all started training and we've created a support system for each other. My cousin and friend both live in Houston and will be able to train together, however, I'm in North Texas (all alone, but I digress), so I have to find motivation elsewhere. What's my motivation, you may ask? I found a runner's club and I went out and bought new running gear. I'm also looking at running sites. But, let's be real, I just have to get out there and run. I'll keep you posted on my progress... in the mean time, please follow our journey at 3 Runners. This site will give handy tid bits for beginning runners, as well as follow our training and progress. Feel free to comment and offer any advice, tid bit or story if you've ever ran a marathon. We look forward to hearing from you.

Be Careful What You Wish For...

OMG!!! I can't believe it's been over two months since I've posted. But believe me when I tell you that I've been hopelessly busy and totally overwhelmed. At least I had been.

In my last post I wrote about finally finding a job in my field so soon after my college graduation. I was ecstatic and on top of the world. I landed a producer's position for an NBC afilliate and I was finally going to be working in a field I had been dreaming about since high school.. Well, let me tell you, my natural high quickly came to an all-time low weeks after I started. In the first couple of weeks, everyone was totally nice and was quick to help me and answer any questions. But eventually, I felt totally out of my element.

Before I continue, I want to reiterate that this is not a bash on my company or any of co-workers. But, this new job position knocked me on my a$$. I soon realized that I do not know everything and that I have a lot to learn about my industry. Things for me became so out of hand, that I didn't want to go to work. I found myself thinking, "what did I get myself into?" I wanted to tuck my tail in between my legs and bow out. And believe me when I say, I was ready to throw in the towel and go back home to Houston. I still want to go back home to Houston, but that's a whole other story.

So, did things turn around? Yes! I had to do a lot of soul searching and twice as much praying. I wanted to cry in the beginning, but couldn't. Even though crying would have felt good, it wouldn't have helped any. Miraculously, and I do mean miraculously... one day after weeks of praying, everything fell into place. I felt comfortable... I finally felt as though I knew what I was doing and I stopped making the same "stupid" mistakes. Trust me, I'm still learning, and there is plenty more to learn, but let's just say that I'm consciously adequate at my job.

What's next? Nothing but years of success! I'm on my way!

Tiger Woods, watch out...

So.... I was successful in my hunt for shelter in my soon-to-be new town, and boy did I get lucky. (Get your head out of the gutter, not that kind of lucky). I managed to find a two-bedroom apartment with two full baths, W/D connections, a fire place and almost 1000 square feet for less than $700 a month... and it's in an incredible neighborhood. The complex has a fully-equipped, state-of-the-art gym and it's directly across the street from a running trail that wraps around a bayou, and adjacent to the running trail is a golf course. Life is good. OK, I don't know how to play golf but I've been threatening to take golf lessons for the past four years and I've yet to go out to buy a set of clubs. So, needless to say, that will be one of the first things I purchase once I'm settled in my new place. Not only will I take up golf, I will commit to getting ripped abs and sculpted legs. Well, now that I've found a place, I now have to move into it, which is the part I hate. I truly, truly hate moving, but thankfully I have plenty of help. I now have to end this post and return to my mountain of boxes that are taking over my apartment.

Thought of the moment

Do you ever come across something; perhaps you read something or you hear or watch something on TV and there is a message that you needed to hear or read? I've been expecting something for the past 2 weeks and it still hasn't arrived... to say the least, it's very important and I'm tired of waiting. Out of the blue, I just read something online... it read, be patient and wait on the Lord. I have to say, it really gave me peace. So, I'm going to do just that... I'm going to be patient and wait on the Lord.

Gone too soon

I'm a firm believer in living each day as if it were your last because tomorrow is not guaranteed, but how sad is the news about Heath Ledger? His autopsy is scheduled for Wednesday, so it's still unclear whether his death is a suicide or accidental overdose... time will tell. I was not a fan of Heath, in the sense that I didn't run out to watch every movie he played in, and I think I'm the only person in America who hasn't seen Brokeback Mountain. But, I do know he was a well-respected actor and he was one of very few actors who seemed to not have an ego. He was low-key, seemed grounded and he even chose to live in Brooklyn, instead of Hollywood or smack dab in the heart of New York City. Though I'm sure his family and friends are certainly mourning his death, what's really sad is that he left behind a 2-year-old daughter. It's just so sad when kids are left without a parent or parents at such an early age. Anyway, I just felt compelled to give my respects to a young talent who has definitely left the earth too soon. He seemed to have so much going for him, but you never know what's going on with a person in their private life.

On that road again

Just one month after graduating and I've managed to land a job as a morning news producer for a small NBC affiliate in North Texas. Not too shabby. It's an entry-level position, but it is just what it is... a stepping stone into the career I've always dreamed of entering. I'm heading out later this week to go apartment hunting. That's always exciting (do you sense my sarcasm)? But, my new colleagues have been very helpful informing me which apartments to check out and which neighborhoods and communities to stay away from. Although my job position is entry-level, which means, I will be making very little money, the cost of living in this small market is extremely cheap. So, even though I'll be earning chump change, I'll appear to be balling because I won't have to part with much money. Anyway, more to come on the apartment search and my move.

Oh yeah... my first day on the new j.o.b is Feb. 3... Superbowl Sunday. I should be upset, but since the Packers nor the Colts are in the championship, I could care less if I miss it or not. Not a Giants fan, and even though I'm indifferent about the Pats, I'm a little bored with them. It will be funny, though, if they went undefeated and then finally lose... to the Giants. BTW-- is it possible to be a fan of one brother, but dislike his kid brother? Is it just me, or do you find Eli just a little annoying? But I guess he wasn't too far off having his girlfriend sit in the freezing cold at one of the most important games of his career, huh? She deserves 10-carats for that act of bravery.