Runaway & Homeless Youth Cases Rise Due To Economy

Runaway & Homeless Youth Cases Rise Due To Economy: "

''CHICAGO, Oct. 28-- The National Runaway Switchboard (NRS) is reporting an increase of more than 200 percent since 2006 in the number of crisis calls to its 1-800-RUNAWAY hotline from or about youth who identify economics as one of the reasons for their call. Meanwhile, the majority of crisis calls continue to be from 15 to 17 year olds (52 percent in 2008), and the number of crisis callers age 18 to 21 has increased by more than 500 percent since 2000. The information is presented in the second annual National Runaway Switchboard Crisis Caller Trends report released today by the non-profit organization, which serves as the federally designated national communication system for homeless and runaway youth. According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, the unemployment rate in the U. S. reached 9.8 percent in September. Maureen Blaha, NRS executive director, said the increase in older youth calling the crisis line is most likely related to the economic downturn. 'These older youth may have been able to get by in the past, but with the scarcity of jobs, it's possible they are turning to crisis lines like NRS' for help surviving,' she said. Blaha noted that NRS defines youth as young people through 21 years old. Other findings in the report: --Youth are resorting to panhandling and stealing in order to survive at significantly higher rates than in 2007 with panhandling up 57 percent and stealing up 25 percent. --The number of calls from throwaway youth increased 15 percent from 2007 to 2008 and 40 percent since 2006. Throwaway youth are individuals who have been forced to leave their home by their parent or guardian. --Crisis calls from or about a youth aged 18 to 20 increased 16 percent from 2007 to 2008 and 107 percent since 2006. --The number of youth reporting abuse...'' Read More Stang: I think it's a sad state of affairs when young people feel that due to our economic standing that they feel they can support themselves better than their families can support them. Of course with most of these cases there are other underlying issues but no child should feel as if they have to raise and support themselves. Ragged Under: CHICAGO

"

S.C. AG’s employee caught with teenage stripper in cemetery

S.C. AG’s employee caught with teenage stripper in cemetery: "

''COLUMBIA, SC Oct 29 2009 (WIS) - A former South Carolina legislator has been fired from the state attorney general's office after authorities say he was discovered in a cemetery with a teenage stripper during his lunch break. Police reports released Wednesday said 66-year-old Roland Corning was stopped Monday after his car was spotted in an area police say is known for sex and drug use. According to the report, a Columbia police officer watched Corning drive into the Elmwood Cemetery at around 3:15pm Monday. When Corning spotted the patrol car, the report says he quickly drove off. A visitor to the cemetery saw Corning's SUV speeding through the area, and police pulled him over a few blocks away. Police say an 18-year-old woman who works at the Platinum Plus strip club was with Corning. Corning and the woman gave police conflicting statements why they were at the cemetery, as well as to their relationship, the report said. Police also found Viagra and sex toys that Corning said were there 'just in case.' Corning, who told the officer he was on his lunch break, identified himself as a prosecutor and was not arrested. The woman was also let go. 'We received credible information about inappropriate behavior Monday afternoon,' McMaster said Wednesday. 'And by the close of business, he was no longer working here.' Such a trip to the cemetery 'would not be appropriate at any time, for an assistant attorney general,' McMaster continued. Columbia Police Chief Tandy Carter spoke to reporters about the incident Wednesday afternoon, but answered few questions before abruptly ending the news conference. Corning has so far not commented on the situation....'' Read More Stang: I think people might be taking this whole Halloween thing a bit too far...Teenagers should be trick or treating not trickin AND treating....She is 18 so all I can say is she has enough sense to be workin for money and not for candy....he could have at least gotten a room. Ragged Under: WIS, Columbia

"

How Much Time Do Employers REALLY Spend On Your Resume?

How Much Time Do Employers REALLY Spend On Your Resume?: "

     With so many people being out of work, the dilemma of writing a resume has come back into focus.  If people are anything like me, they have created a resume, proofread, revised, had a friend read and critique, revised again and then finally, called it finished.  Oddly enough, I read an article that states that the average employer only spends 6.4 minutes on resume review.  Hell, I spend that much time alone thinking about my layout!!  Here is the article....

Survey: Executives Spend an Average of Six Minutes Reading Each Resume

MENLO PARK, Calif., Oct. 27  -- It's usually flattering
when someone hangs on your every word. For job seekers, this kind of
scrutiny takes on a whole new meaning. According to a new survey by
OfficeTeam, executives spend more than six minutes, on average,
screening each resume received. Considering these documents are usually
only one or two pages in length, this suggests many are being examined
with a fine-toothed comb.

The survey was developed by OfficeTeam, a leading staffing service
specializing in the placement of highly skilled administrative
professionals. It was conducted by an independent research firm and
includes responses from 150 senior executives at the nation's 1,000
largest companies.

Executives were asked, 'Approximately how much time, in minutes, do
you spend screening each resume when reviewing job applicants for an
advertised position?'

The average response was 6.4 minutes.

'Executives are paying extra attention to application materials to
avoid costly hiring mistakes -- something no company can afford,' said
Robert Hosking, executive director of OfficeTeam. 'To improve their
chances of passing the initial screening process, job seekers should
craft resumes that are accurate, clear and error-free.'

Hosking added, 'In a highly competitive job market, hiring managers
spend the most time on the best prospects, which means a candidate's
application must catch and keep their interest.'

OfficeTeam offers the following tips for creating an attention-grabbing resume:

  --  Get off to a good start. Be specific and concise when describing past
      accomplishments and highlight these achievements up front. This allows
      an employer to clearly recognize how you can impact the company's
      bottom line.
  --  Tailor the content. Customize your resume so it speaks directly to a
      potential employer's needs -- mirror the language and keywords found
      in the job description.
  --  Do the two-minute test. Ask a friend or family member to review your
      resume and summarize its key points for you. Make sure the most
      valuable information is being conveyed to readers. Also enlist the
      help of someone to proofread and check for typos.

  --  Keep it simple. Refrain from using complicated language, graphics or
      distracting fonts that can make the resume difficult to read.


  About OfficeTeam

OfficeTeam provides businesses with the temporary administrative
professionals they need to maximize productivity, achieve cost
efficiency and support existing staff. The company has more than 325
locations worldwide and offers online job search services at
www.officeteam.com.

Source: OfficeTeam

Web Site: http://www.officeteam.com/

"

Tranny Mases Kid For Talkin Too Damned Much

Tranny Mases Kid For Talkin Too Damned Much: "I am a firm believer that parents are supposed to lead by example and this mother did....however it was the wrong example and she should have instructed her kid to sit down and shut the hell up........what do you think?

"

Michael Jackson Handwritten Lyrics, Memorabilia at Heritage Auctions, Nov. 6-7

Michael Jackson Handwritten Lyrics, Memorabilia at Heritage Auctions, Nov. 6-7: "

Costumes, lyrics, autographs, drawings and awards from MJ's
illustrious career highlight Heritage Auctions' 20th Century Icons
Auction

DALLAS, Oct. 28 -- As fans around the globe line-up to
see This Is It, the posthumous Michael Jackson documentary, the late
King of Pop will feature prominently in Heritage Auctions' Nov. 6-7
20th Century Icons Auction online (www.HA.com/Entertainment) and
in-person in Dallas.

"We have some fabulous Michael Jackson material," said Doug Norwine,
Director of Music & Entertainment sales at Heritage Auctions. "From
Thriller-era autographs and costumes, to gold and platinum records to
handwritten lyrics to off-the-cuff drawings of his siblings. This is a
superb chance to acquire items directly associated with the singer."

The Michael Jackson-related items carry estimates ranging from $250 to $4,000+.

'We've placed estimates on most of these pieces that really level
the playing field among MJ collectors,' said Norwine, 'though the
market is still trying to figure out what Jackson memorabilia will
bring. You can look at prices realized when he was alive, but the
comparison ends there. The emotional impact of his passing cannot be
calculated, nor its impact on what collectors will be willing to pay
for a piece of their idol.'

Highlights include:

Michael Jackson Thriller In-House Gold and Platinum Album Award Presented to 'My Hero' Fred Astaire: Estimate: $4,000 - up.

Michael Jackson's childhood handwritten notebook with Bible Verse: Estimate: $4,000 - up.

Michael Jackson's Red Suede Jacket, worn offstage by the singer, created by David Laurenz: Estimate: $3,000 - up.

Michael Jackson's telegram from close friend Marlon Brando, 1984, in
which the famous actor kids the famous singer: Estimate: $800 - up.

Michael Jackson autographed handwritten 'Billie Jean' Lyrics: Estimate: $1,000 - up.

'With more than 40 Michael Jackson items crossing the auction block
in the Nov. 6-7 sale,' said Norwine, 'fans will not get this good a
chance to bid on a piece from the legendary performer's intricate,
private yet infamously public life for quite a while to come.'

Heritage Auctions, headed by Steve Ivy, Jim Halperin and Greg Rohan,
is the world's third largest auction house, and by far the largest
auctioneer of rare collectibles, with annual sales more than $700
million, and 450,000+ registered online bidder members. For more
information go to www.HA.com.

Follow Heritage Auctions at: www.Twitter.com/HeritagePress; www.Twitter.com/JimHalperin; Facebook: Heritage Auction Galleries."

CBS News Coverage Of The Michael Jackson "This Is It" Premier

CBS News Coverage Of The Michael Jackson "This Is It" Premier: "I ran across this really cool news coverage on CBS about the premier of Jackson's "This Is It" movie.  I'll add on to this after I do and see it in the morning.

Watch CBS News Videos Online

"

DC sniper Muhammad set to die by lethal injection November 10

DC sniper Muhammad set to die by lethal injection November 10: "

''RICHMOND, Va. (AP) - The mastermind of the 2002 Washington, DC-area sniper attacks will die by lethal injection next month, Virginia officials said Tuesday. John Allen Muhammad declined to choose between lethal injection and electrocution, so under state law the method defaults to lethal injection, Virginia Department of Corrections spokesman Larry Traylor said. Muhammad is scheduled to be executed Nov. 10 for the October 2002 slaying of Dean Harold Meyers at a Manassas gas station during a string of shootings. The three-week killing spree in October 2002 left 10 dead in Maryland, Virginia and the District of Columbia. Muhammad and his teenage accomplice, Lee Boyd Malvo, were also suspected of shootings in several other states, including a killing in Louisiana and another in Alabama. Malvo is serving a life sentence in prison. Muhammad's lawyers have asked the Virginia governor for clemency and plan to file an appeal with the U.S. Supreme Court early next month. (This version CORRECTS Corrects details of shooting spree; recasts lede.) Copyright 2009 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. -Michael S. Rulle Jr.: 'CSI: Miami' Attacks ObamaCare Apostate 7 hours ago...'' Read More Stang: It's about time...... good riddens. Ragged Under: Senate, United States, John Allen Muhammad, Virginia

"

Father of Balloon Boy Now Has His Own Doll..Err..Action Figure

Father of Balloon Boy Now Has His Own Doll..Err..Action Figure: "

''Move over GI Joe -- Balloon Boy dad Richard Heene has been forever immortalized in plastic in the form of an action figure doll. The $34.95 doll, manufactured by Hero Builders, is a movable figurine complete with an 'I'm with stupid' T-shirt. Heene shot to notoriety on October 15th, when he and his wife Mayumi called 911 claiming their six-year-old son Falcon had taken flight in a home-made UFO style hot air balloon. People were transfixed to the television watching the balloon's flight and rescue services were mobilized, resulting in a rescue operation totaling six figures. Mayumi later admitted to sheriff's deputies in a sworn affidavit that the whole affair was a stunt that had been played by Heene, and planned out two weeks in advance. The Heenes are now facing criminal investigation and the possibility of being forced to foot the bill for the supposed rescue operation....'' Read More Stang: Serious? That is about as much of a waste of money as this dude is a waste of space, his shirt says it all........... Ragged Under: USD

"

Police: Gang rape outside school dance lasted over two hours

Police: Gang rape outside school dance lasted over two hours: "

''An ambulance delivers a California high school student to the hospital last week. Police say she was gang raped. (CNN) -- A California high school student who police said was gang raped in a two-and-a-half-hour assault outside a homecoming dance remained hospitalized in stable condition Monday, two days after she was flown from the attack scene in critical condition. As of late Monday, two suspects had been arrested in the case and a third was being questioned. 'There is one individual in custody who has made some spontaneous statements that have led me to believe that he is culpable for what happened,' Richmond police Lt. Johan Simon said. Nineteen-year-old Manuel Ortega, described as a former student at the school, was arrested soon after he fled the scene and will face charges of rape, robbery and kidnapping, police said. A 15-year-old was later arrested and charged with one count of felony sexual assault. A third teenager was being interviewed, according to Lt. Mark Gagan of the police department in Richmond, California. 'Based on witness statements and suspect statements, and also physical evidence, we know that she was raped by at least four suspects committing multiple sex acts,' Gagan said. Investigators said as many as 15 people, all males, stood around watching the assault, but did not call police or help the victim, a 15-year-old student at Richmond High School in suburban San Francisco. 'As people announced over time that this was going on, more people came to see, and some actually participated,' Gagan said. Authorities had interviewed the victim, and the search for other attackers and bystanders who watched and did not report the rape was in 'full-court press,' according to Gagan. 'We have checked Facebook and YouTube to try to find any revealing evidence,'...'' Read More Stang: OMG!! This is INSANE .. not only did no one come help this girl but when word got out, many came to join in the assault. Have we really created a society that these kids think this is okay? Epic Fail. Ragged Under: Richmond, California, CNN, Mark Gagan

"

Pam Anderson Under Fire By Child Advocates

Pam Anderson Under Fire By Child Advocates: "

''Pamela Anderson shocked the Hollywood Style Awards over the weekend by recruiting a shy, 9-year-old girl to hold up her risque dress all night. Vivienne Westwooddress on Sunday -- with the child holding her long train. Adelaide Gaultis too young to be used as a fashion accessory. One guest told Page Six, 'People were genuinely shocked. 'She didn't even have her own seat and had to sit at Pamela's feet, where people nearly stepped on her to get to the stage. The girl looked uncomfortable and kept tugging on her dress to get her attention, but Pamela waved her away. 'Pamela was telling people it was her daughter,' the attendee said. 'And, after she presented David LaChapellewith an award onstage, she shouted 'daughter' in front of the whole auditorium, and slapped her leg like she was calling a puppy. The girl rushed up to grab her train.' Sharon Gault, who was believed to be at the event. But Adelaide looked nervous as she was forced to carry Anderson's dress up the red carpet, then backstage, and when the star made a dramatic exit two hours later. A spokesman for the Child Labor Coalition said, 'I would want to speak to the child to ask her if it is something she willingly did. Nine is very young, and an awards ceremony is a long time for a child to be out holding a dress.' Anderson's agent,...'' Read More Stang: Remember the other day when I said that little girl holding the train of Pam's dress looked horrified?? Well so did child advocates. Apparently the little girl was hired to tote around Pam's dress train but was not provided her own seat at the event and was treated like a 'slave girl' it's bad when the public thinks that Pam is more dedicated to PETA than following child labor laws. Ragged Under: Sharon Gault, Pamela Anderson, Pam Anderson

"

It's THAT Bitches Fault! For Real??!!

It's THAT Bitches Fault! For Real??!!: "For about the last week or so, I have been following the coverage of a trial out of Canton, Mississippi.  The trial is that of school teacher, Carla Hughes who was recently convicted in the shooting and stabbing death of her lover's fiancee and unborn baby. 



A quick background on the case.  Carla was involved with a man named Keyon Pittman.  Both Hughes and Pittman were teachers at the same middle school.  Pittman was also the coach at the middle school where they were both employed and he had a pregnant fiancee at home.

Carla was not some crazy social deviant or someone depicted to be in the "throws of passion".  She has a son by a man who bailed on her just days before they were supposed to be married and has been described by family and friends as being church going, community active and a level headed, intelligent woman with no history of mental illness, abuse or "reckless" behavior.  So, to me, she sounds like a well grounded woman who, at some point, managed to get her head twisted on backwards behind some man.  Sadly, that happens a lot.

Carla was emotional after the verdict yesterday and as I watch the coverage on the penalty phase (she faces life in prison without the possibility of parole or the death penalty) she is still very emotional and has been crying since she set foot in the courtroom this morning.  I was reading some boards today since yesterday Carla had beenconvicted by a jury, comprised mostly of women, of the double murder.   Some of the comments I read really pissed me off:



Why is it when these types of crimes happen, people are VERY eager to blame the woman??  I understand she's the one that's been found guilty of murder but she's NOT the only one involved in the affair.  I can even broaden this theory, why is it when a man is caught cheating, it's never HIS fault, the finger is usually pointed at the woman?

I found this sentiment too as well when NFL player Steve McNair was murdered.  People, again, quickly pointed the finger at his mistress and talked about how "ho-ish" she was for being his mistress.  Why is it that he wasn't a "man whore" for having a mistress?

I think when it comes down to infidelity, the culpability falls on the person who has the obligation to protect the relationship.  What the hell am I talking about??  Simply, Carla Hughes was not obligated to Kenyon's fiancee, it is Kenyon's responsibility to maintain the integrity of the relationship he had with his fiancee.  Do I think she should have dated a man that she knew had a fiancee, let alone a pregnant one?  Not on a wild bet but had it not been for murder, she had nothing to loose and had no commitment to anyone that she had to honor. 

What makes this even worse for me is not only were people ready to make Carla the only person involved in the affair, there were some people so full of fuckery that they made Keyon the victim:



Keep yo head up KENYON??!!! Are you SERIOUS??!!  We are supposed to feel horrible for Kenyon because he lost his fiancee AND his mistress.  Kenyon should not have HAD a mistress.  If he was unhappy, then he needed to kick push, leave then be a father to his baby.  Kenyon has his head up alright.  Carla has been locked up for 3 years pending trial for this case (whatever happened to the right to a speedy trial, I'm not sure) but a year after this incident occurred, Kenyon married someone ELSE!  That fool is FINE!!  The people who need to keep their heads are the friends and family of the deceased and the friends and family of Carla Hughes.  *With the utmost of sarcasm* "Keep yo head up Kenyon", see comments such as that one really reinforce my thinking that G_D makes some people out of spare parts. 

My issue is not to decide that guilt or innocence, that is the jury's job but I will tell you that although he had an alibi, I'm not sure that Kenyon's hands are totally clean on this deal, I think he was an accessory but that's my own shit.  The bottom line is, no matter what her sentence is, she has the right to an automatic appeal because this is a death penalty case so I'm sure we've not heard the last of this.

Read Original Article On CNN

"

Kanye West Thankful Law Named After His Mother

Kanye West Thankful Law Named After His Mother: "

'"Kayne West recently told Jay Leno that the death of his mother pains him and since her death the artist has been struggling to deal with his grief. In an effort to protect others from the same fate, California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger signed The Donda West bill into law on Monday, and Kayne's cousin Yolanda Anderson told RadarOnline.com in an exclusive interview that "Kanye was very thankful about it." "This was so perfect for him," Yolanda said.;He called me and was very excited about it. He appreciated it." Yolanda's mother is Donda's sister and Yolanda began working on the law shortly after her aunt passed away. California Assembly member Wilmer Amina Carter said in a statement: "This measure will better protect our citizens from unnecessary bodily trauma that could result from elective cosmetic surgery procedures, if they are not physically fit to undergo surgery.& It will help prevent other California families from going through the trauma and grief that the West family had to endure." "There is comfort in knowing that her life wasn't in vain," Yolanda said of her Aunt Donda. "With the law in place it will give family members the knowledge that the extra step is in place. It will protect families against doctors like Jan Adams." Adams' medical license was revoked in April due to his multiple alcohol related incidents. Its important to note that What killed Donde was respiratory depression caused by painkillers...."' Read More Stang: This not about Kanye, this is about Donda, if you don't know, she was an amazing woman who had begun to get hooked on plastic surgery. Through doctor shopping, she found someone to do a procedure despite her heart condition and she died as a result. It's all very sad and I'm glad they can keep this from happening to someone else. Ragged Under: Jay Leno, California, Kanye West

"

Mickey Rourke In Hot Water Over Using Gay Slurs

Mickey Rourke In Hot Water Over Using Gay Slurs: "

''Wrestler star Mickey Rourke refuses to apologize for calling a journalist a 'fa__ot' in a drunken outburst last November that was captured on video. The video shows Rourke visibly drunk and railing against a journalist who wrote thathe was dating actress Evan Rachel Wood. 'She's a good friend, that's it. And tell that f---ot who wrote all that s--- in the paper I'd like to break his f---ing legs.' Rourke refused to apologize over the weekend when confronted about the comments in New York. 'I have more gay friends than any 50 straight people I know, so I don't really give a s---,' he said. The Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation decried his unrepentant stance. Rourke previously called Sean Penn, who won an Academy Award for his portrayal of gay rights leader Harvey Milk, 'one of the most homophobic people I know.' David Mixner, who originally called for the National Equality March, gave a barn-burner of a speech that reflected the three decades of wisdom he's gathered as an LGBT activist. The National Equality March was about more than demanding equal rights. It was a reminder, in the words of David Mixner, that you can 'never underestimate the power of people who want their freedom.' OLTL's Robin Strasser celebrates 30 years as devilish Dorian with a same-sex wedding shockeroo, raises money for Matthew Shepard and continues her fight for equality for the LGBT community....'' Read More Stang: Drunken and pissed off usually don't make for a great conversationalist. I think what he said was not cool but he has the same rights that everyone else does. The ONLY commendable thing about this is that he didn't feel the need to come out with some bullsnit azz apology that he doesn't mean, strictly for PR reasons. Ragged Under: USD, New York, Evan Rachel Wood, Mickey Rourke

"

Bill Cosby Launches Socially Conscious Hip-Hop Project

Bill Cosby Launches Socially Conscious Hip-Hop Project: "

'"TV legend and social critic Bill Cosby has announced a new album aimed at bringing socially conscious lyrics to the forefront of Hip-Hop. The new project is titled "Bill Cosby Presents the Cosnarati: State of Emergency," and will be available directly though Cosby's social media network site . Cosby, a veteran of several comedy and music albums, serves as the executive producer. Although he does no actual rapping, he is responsible for conceiving all the narrative concepts for each track. When describing the music, Bill Cosby explained it as a declaration of a new direction rather than an indictment of the current Hip-Hop scene. "I don't like referring to the music as clean," Cosby said in a statement. "What I like is what you're not going to do. You're not going to curse. You're not going to put women down. You're not going to put the glory of the gun somewhere. And you're not going to put a whole lot of violence up front like that's the thing that will cleanse you and make you feel better." The production is handled by William "Spaceman" Patterson (Miles Davis, LL Cool J, Eric Clapton, Alicia Keys) and Ced-Gee, co-founder of the seminal Hip-Hip collective the Ultramagnetic MCs. The album will mix elements of Hip-Hop, R&B, jazz, pop, rock, and funk. Song titles include "Where's the Parade," honoring black women, "Dad Behind the Glass," about absent fathers, and "Get on Your Job," detailing self-responsibility. Bill Cosby and the Cosnarati Band will premier on October 19 via a virtual town hall meeting in New York City. The presentation is courtesy of Ustream and commences at 7PM. Additionally, the concert will be available onand www.facebook.com/billcosby. At press time, Bill Cosby's "The Cosnarati: State of Emergency" is set to have a physical and digital release on November 24. Tye-Banks said: Interesting very interesting. ..."' Read More Stang: This is VERY cool. I'm anxious to see how this takes off but I'm glad to see more people willing to use their influence to make things better. Bill Cosby not only talks about it but is IS about it and that gets HUGE props from me....like he cares right? LOL I wish him luck. Ragged Under: USD, Alicia Keys, HipHop, Bill Cosby

"

New Michael Jackson song debuts on MJ's official website

New Michael Jackson song debuts on MJ's official website: "

'" When Michael Jackson recorded "This Is It" in 1991, he couldn't possibly have known that he was singing his own death mass. But listening to it today from its stream on Jacko's website, that's exactly how it feels. The song is a slow jam that recalls his uber-produced ballads from the Dangerous era, which is fitting. Rumors about the song's exact date of origin is up for debate--some claim that it was rejected from the Off The Wall sessions, some claim it was a reject from the Dangerous sessions. Either way, it's a strong showing in Jackson's weakest genre--the lilting, overly composed ballad. MJ's musical seams didn't show in very many places. But his slow numbers have always seemed to find Jacko at his most achingly saccharine. Even his voice seems to fail him in these touchy feely asides, going from that piercing, garrulous, pitch perfect upper register to a feeble, breathy rasp. But "This Is It" feels different, and it feels different in part because it has been colored by history. We know, for example, that MJ had already predicted (and, as some sources, say, wished for) his own death by the time he recorded it. And though the tune is uplifting and sunny, its bright outlook in such a sharp contrast to the future awaiting him that it's almost gruesome to listen to. The album is a companion to the forthcoming film of the same title, which documents Jackson's exhaustive rehearsal process for his farewell shows in the weeks prior to his death. The film drops on the world on October 28th with an album release to match it. The album (also of the same title, natch) will be yet another anthology of Jackson's previous high points. Remember personal info? Comments may not show up immediately after submission. Please wait a minute after..."' Read More Stang: I heard it and I really like it, what do you think? Ragged Under: This Is It, Jacko, Michael Jackson

"

What The Hell Is Pamela Anderson Wearing??!!

What The Hell Is Pamela Anderson Wearing??!!: "

'"I'm really starting to think that Pamela Anderson's only claim to fame at this point is showing up to event horribly and/or scantily dressed.Just a few weeks ago, Pamela attended a "launch" for her "fashion line" Muse, and walked the runway in a dirty thong and a scarf.It was all pretty gross.Pamela chose to wear a little more for last night's Hollywood Style Awards in Los Angeles.She wore&#226 &#128 &#166 what is this sh-t?It looks like an 80s bridesmaid dress that's been run over by a truck.With Pamela still in the dress.Whenever I look at Pamela the thought "Rode hard and put away wet" always pops up.Which is fine, whatever, just another gross moment in Pamela's history of gross moments.But now she's gotten a child involved! Yes, Pamela had the daughter of her makeup artist act as her official train-carrier.This little girl looks terrified.I would be too. Most parents might worry about their daughter following in the footsteps of Pamela Anderson, but not the Barb Wire star's make-up artist.Sharon Gault allowed her young girl Adelaide to carry the train of the brazen 42-year-old's outrageous dress at the Hollywood Style Awards in Los Angeles.It certainly helped her make the grandest entrance of the night, which kicked off LA Fashion Week. Standing shyly beside Pamela and photographer David LaChapelle - who counts her mother as his muse - Adelaide looked slightly uncomfortable as she was photographed beside the famous blonde bombshell. While most of the stars in attendance at the glitzy bash last night went for more traditional looks, the former Baywatch star managed to steal the limelight with her revealing dress, which appeared to be falling to pieces. The baby pink gown appeared to be a recycled couture gown, which was worn the wrong way round and was held together with safety pins and knots. The risque gown..."' Read More Stang: Not to mention that the dress itself is just a hot azz mess (referred to a H.A.M. in my posts from now on...lol) but the poor child that is holding what is supposed to be the 'dress's' 'train' looks absolutely horrified.........and with great reason. I think Pamela is really pretty but that dress must have been made by one of her kids and she didn't want to hurt anyone's feelings, so she wore it. I hope that's her story anyway. Ragged Under: Los Angeles, Pamela Anderson

"

Ozzy Osbourne stole flowers from grave to give to wife!

Ozzy Osbourne stole flowers from grave to give to wife!: "

Stang: Imma Peeeeeeeeee Lmfao!!!!!!!!! He got caught because his burnt azz forgot to take the 'In loving memory of, Mary' card off of the bouquet...ha ha... see what happens when Ozzy gets a drivers license, he drives to the cemetery to steal flowers...ha ha ha ha ha .. I can't STAND it.

''LONDON - Ozzy Osbourne has revealed that wifeSharon was shocked when he presented her a bouquet he had 'nicked'from a graveyard. The60-yearyear old rocker says he was caught becausehehad forgottento the rip the card off the bouquet, whichread:'In loving memory of Mary.' Ozzy, however, adds that this was only a one-time incident and he always bought flowers for his wife in their 27-year marriage. TheSun quoted him as saying: 'I'd gone out on the p***andit was late and I went into a graveyard and nicked some flowersoff a freshly-dug grave. Then I forgot to take the card off. 'Thatwent down like a pair of knickers. 'Oh thank youforthe flowers... you f*****!' ' (ANI) Osbourne misunderstood rehab October 7th, 2009 LONDON - Legendary rocker Ozzy Osbourne, who had tried to strangle his wife Sharon while drunk, did not understand what rehab was and expected to find a bar on his visit there. 'I'd never heard of rehab. Ozzy Osbourne was wrongly diagnosed with AIDS October 5th, 2009 LONDON -Ozzy Osbourne has said that he was wrongly diagnosed as HIV positive. 'I went to the doctor and had an Aids test and he told me it was positive. Ozzy Osbourne finally gets his first ever driving licence October 5th, 2009 LONDON - Ozzy Osbourne has finally managed to get a driving licence for the first time at the age of 60, after being rejected by the authorities a number of times due to his alcohol habits. The Prince of Darkness is excited that he can now officially drive. Ozzy Osbourne finding difficult to have sex October 4th, 2009 LONDON - Ozzy Osbourne has revealed in hisnew book 'I Am Ozzy' that of late he is finding it difficult tohave sex. The60-year-old rockstar believes that anti-depressantshehas beentaking since quitting booze and drugs has damaged hislove life with wife Sharon. Ozzy describes The...'' Read More Ragged Under: Kelly Osbourne, Sharon Osbourne, LONDON, Ozzy Osbourne

"

When 'Yes We Can' Turns To 'Oh No They Didn't'

When 'Yes We Can' Turns To 'Oh No They Didn't': "





I am probably going to sound like the biggest hater on the planet or even worse, a radical conservative but Obama for the Nobel Peace Prize? Really? I'm not very sure how that happened, not based on lack of accomplishment (okay, maybe some of that too) but more so on common sense and timing. The deadline for the Nobel Peace Prize was February 1, 2009, that was a whopping two weeks after his inaguration. Technically, he had not even had his first day at work, although he did have some economic meetings prior to his actual swearing in.

Jimmy Carter received his Nobel Peace Prize in 2002 after years, more like decades of his work to try and resolve international disputes. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. received his after years of of working to obtain the civil rights of African-Americans. The only other two seated presidents to receive the awards were Woodrow Wilson and Theodore Roosevelt and both of them were in their second terms, not their second week. You know some people do not even earn their accolade until after their death. In comparison, I'm really struggling with how the committee selected President Obama to receive such honors based on what appears to be just two weeks of service.

I am not claiming to know all about everything but I'm not sure that even as a Senator that he had accomplishments that were noteworthy enough to receive such an honor. This is not the first time the committee from Norway has been criticized for their method of selection and they expected some criticism regarding this decision as well. According to the Wall Street Journal, "'The committee wants to not only endorse but contribute to enhancing that kind of international policy and attitude which [Obama] stands for, said Mr. Jagland, a former Norwegian prime minister, said at a news conference.'"

Did I misread that or did the committee spokesperson basically tell us that he was granted the award based on what President Barack Obama has promised to do and their faith in him to get it done? It really sounds like they awarded him this honor because they EXPECT for him to do great things, not for the great things he's done.

I don't want to take away the magnitude of the honor itself, if the committee thinks he's deserving for whatever reason but to me it just seems a bit premature and I think is going to call the credibility of the committee into question, very publicaly.

Source Article

"

New Black Barbie Released Not Without Controversy

New Black Barbie Released Not Without Controversy: "

Mattel introduces black Barbies, to mixed reviews

By Megan K. Scott, Associated Press Writer | October 8, 2009

NEW YORK -- Mattel has launched a new line of black Barbie dolls with fuller lips, a wider nose and more pronounced cheek bones -- a far cry from Christie, Barbie's black friend who debuted in the 1960s and was essentially a white doll painted brown.

The 'So In Style' line, which hit mass retailers last month, features BFFs Grace, Kara and Trichelle, each with her own style and interests and a little sister she mentors: Courtney, Janessa and Kianna. The dolls reflect varying skin tones -- light brown, chocolate, and caramel -- and Trichelle and Kianna have curlier hair.

Barbie designer Stacey McBride-Irby, who is black and has a 6-year-old daughter, said she wanted to create a line of dolls for young black girls that looked like them and were inspirational and career-minded. For example, Kara is interested in math and music.

'I want them to see themselves within these dolls, and let them know that black is beautiful,' she said.

Many black women are praising Mattel for its efforts -- Black Barbie hit the shelves in 1980 with white features shared by many of the dolls following her.

But some say the long straight hair does not address the beauty issues that many black girls struggle with. In the black community, long, straight hair is often considered more beautiful than short kinky hair.

Chris Rock highlights the issue in his 'Good Hair' documentary, which opens in select cities on Friday and shows black women straightening their tight curls with harsh chemicals and purchasing thousand-dollar hair weaves.

'Why are we always pushing this standard of long hair on our girls?' asked Gail Parrish, 60, a playwright in Alexandria, Va., and a mother of four grown children. 'Why couldn't one of the dolls have a little short afro, or shorter braids or something?'

McBride-Irby said she originally designed all the dolls with long hair. Combing her Barbie's long hair when she was a girl was the 'highlight of my play experience,' she said. She was advised to create some dolls with curlier hair, so she did.

There is a So In Style hairstyling set so girls can curl, straighten and style their dolls' hair over and over. (It costs $24.99, more than a pair of dolls at $19.99.)

That is troubling to Sheri Parks, an associate professor of American Studies at the University of Maryland in College Park, because it actively involves girls in the process of straightening hair. She worries that it reinforces the message that there is something wrong with natural hair.

'Black mothers who want their girls to love their natural hair have an uphill battle and these dolls could make it harder,' Parks said in an e-mail.

Aside from the hair, some black women are concerned about the dolls' thin frames. Barbie, which celebrated her 50th birthday in March, has for years come under fire for promoting an unrealistic body image, with her long legs, tiny waist and large breasts.

While white girls also deal with body-image issues, Kumea Shorter-Gooden, co-author of 'Shifting: The Double Lives of Black Women in America,' believes Barbie has a more negative impact on black girls. They are already struggling with messages that 'black skin isn't pretty and our hair is too kinky and short,' she said.

Despite those complaints, Mattel seems to have gotten several things right.

Andrea Slaughter, 38, a mom of two in Newnan, Ga., said she likes how the designer highlighted values that are critical in the black community, such as education and mentoring.

Sheila Adams Gardner, 41, a mother of three in Arlington, Va., praised the varying skin tones. She said when her daughter was 4, she became very self-conscious about being lighter than everyone else in her family.

'She has always had African-American dolls, but rarely dolls with skin like her own,' she said. 'Often the lighter dolls were Hispanic or Indian. It was very heartwarming to look at a series of African-American Barbies and hear my daughter, now ll, exclaim, 'She looks like me!''

Even Shorter-Gooden acknowledged the facial features 'look like real black people.'

Mattel doesn't release sales figures. But Michelle Chidoni of Mattel said the dolls are resonating with girls of all colors and ages.

The line will be expanding next year with Rocawear clothing, new dolls Chandra and her little sister Zahara, and Darren, who will have a little brother he mentors.
© Copyright 2009 The New York Times Company"

Edgar Allan Poe finally getting proper funeral

Edgar Allan Poe finally getting proper funeral: "

''Web search powered by YAHOO! SEARCH BALTIMORE -- For Edgar Allan Poe, 2009 has been a better year than 1849. After dozens of events in several cities to mark the 200th anniversary of his birth, he's about to get the grand funeral that a writer of his stature should have received when he died. One hundred sixty years ago, the beleaguered, impoverished Poe was found, delirious and in distress outside a Baltimore tavern. He was never coherent enough to explain what had befallen him since leaving Richmond, Va., a week earlier. He spent four days in a hospital before he died at age 40. Poe's cousin, Neilson Poe, never announced his death publicly. Fewer than 10 people attended the hasty funeral for one of the 19th century's greatest writers. And the injustices piled on. Poe's tombstone was destroyed before it could be installed, when a train derailed and crashed into a stonecutter's yard. Rufus Griswold, a Poe enemy, published a libelous obituary that damaged Poe's reputation for decades. It's not too late to enjoy three more days of indie films scheduled as part of the fourth annual Myrtle Beach International Film Festival, which began Dec. 2 and concludes Saturday. By the festival's end, the five-day event will have featured more than 50 films, including full-length features, documentaries, animations, shorts and music videos from both unknown directors, producers and actors, as well as established Hollywood talent, including Tom Arnold, Kevin Nealon, and Faye Dunaway. Carmike's Broadway Cinema 16 (Broadway at the Beach, Myrtle Beach) has dedicated several screens to the festival, organized by Dalton Pictures and Entertainment Company, of Myrtle Beach/Loris. Ticket prices vary but the standard $7 ticket package buys a two-hour block of movie-going time (give or take a few minutes), which can be used for a variety of viewing combinations - e.g. several...'' Read More Stang: Okay now this is just WEIRD!! A Mock corpse of a man they found wandering the streets delusional and delirious outside of a Baltimore tavern over 160 years ago....that's just macabre...quoth the raven, nevermore. Ragged Under: Writer, BALTIMORE

"

End of Days: Taco Bell Worker Gets Shot Over a Taco in Miami

End of Days: Taco Bell Worker Gets Shot Over a Taco in Miami: "

Rebecca Bouie works as a cashier for Taco Bell and was shot in the leg after a customer was upset that they were closed at 3:30 in the morning. What is really going on… all because they were closed he decides to start shooting!!!

SMH… More Details Under the Hood

MIAMI (WSVN) — A worker shot over a taco by an armed and angry fast food customer is speaking out about the terrifying moments at the receiving end of a hail of bullets.

The gunman, who remains at large, ambushed several employees as they stepped out of the Taco Bell at 630 NE 79th St. at closing time, at about 3:30 a.m., Tuesday. He fired several shots, and Rebecca Bouie took a bullet to her leg, before he fled the scene.

Bouie, a single mother, works until 3 a.m. as a cashier at that Taco Bell to support her 2-year-old boy. “I just got finished off the phone with him, and I said, ‘Baby, I’m on my way home, I miss you, Mommy loves you.’ He’s like, ‘OK, Mommy, I’m going to talk to you later.’”

She still has the bullet in her leg and needs crutches to get around. “I couldn’t believe it because I’m never rude to any of my customers, I never get any complaints. The most I get is compliments and something like that, but when it happened I’m like, oh, my God, I couldn’t believe it.”

She said she could not believe she nearly lost her life over a taco. “I was scared to think that… to live without my baby over something that’s stupid. I didn’t even speak to the guy.”

Bouie took the bullet, according to Miami Police, because some guy was upset the store had closed and he could not buy any food.

She feels lucky to be alive and hopes to see luck run out for her assailant. “For you to do what you did, it was very unnecessary,” Bouie said, addressing the shooter, “and I have a child. I didn’t do anything or say anything wrong to you, and even if I did, that doesn’t give you reason to shoot or to fire your gun at anybody, and I hope you get caught for what you did.”

Surveillance video captured still photos of the suspect vehicle, a white sport utility vehicle with dark tints, at the drive-thru of the store. If you were in the area and saw the vehicle or heard the shots, call Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers at 305-471-TIPS. Remember, you can always remain anonymous, and you may be eligible for a reward.

Source

"