Rocsi and Victor Cruz Dance-Off

I have one word for Rocsi...Thirsty!

Rocsi did NOT represent for the Latina's in her dance-off with Giant's wide receiver, Victor Cruz.  She did however prove to anyone that doubted media reports, that she is a freak. 

Rocsi's innocent portrayal on BET's 106 & Park quickly turned sour when she exposed her true colors on national television.  Watch Rocsi's desperate attempt to throw herself at Victor...my guess is...he ain't interested.

National HIV Testing Day

More than 3% of the DC population is infected with HIV or AIDS, the Washington Post reports.  In an effort to raise awareness, the National Association of People With Aids is offering free HIV and AIDS testing at sites across the nation.  This annual event is recognized as the National HIV Testing Day, coined in 1995.  This years message to the community, is to Take the Test and Take Control. 

To kick off the event, DC Mayor Vincent C. Gray will take an HIV test at one of the District’s most comprehensive medical clinics, Bread for the City's newly renovated primary care center at 1525 7th Street NW.  Bread for the City provides free and comprehensive services to low-income DC residents, including food, clothing, medical care, legal assistance and much more.

DC Mayor Gray and community leaders are encouraging everyone to do their part to fight the spread of HIV and AIDS.  By getting tested and educating yourself and others.  To find a FREE, anonymous testing clinic near you, click here.  Share this information with your family and friends.  Take the Test and Take Control.

Several Shot, One Stabbed at DC Carnival

The 19th Annual DC Caribbean Carnival ended in violence Saturday, with one dead and four seriously injured.  Reports from WJLA say shots were fired around 5 p.m. near Howard University, where 43 year-old Robert Foster Jr. was fatally wounded.  Foster and three other victims were rushed to the hospital where Foster later died, and the others in critical condition.

In a separate, unrelated incident, a stabbing occurred several blocks south at Georgia and W Street, police said. Authorities believe the stabbings and shootings were not related to the carnival or Howard University, but instead an ongoing neighborhood dispute between two gangs.  One of the four victims shot police believe was an intended target, based on a shooting that involved the victim and the death of innocent bystander, last year.

Video taped recordings of the isolated incidents have swarmed the Internet, and authorities are hoping the evidence will lead to an arrest. So far two teens are in custody on suspicion of assault with a deadly weapon and gang charges. No arrests have been made in relation to the shootings.

Story developing.

Single Is The New Married

With divorce being at an all time high, many young couples are beginning to lose sight of the value of marriage.  While some are still eager walk down the aisle, others are happy being single.

I hate to sound pessimistic, but relationships are not all that they're cracked up to be.  Put aside foolish daydreams of long walks in the park, passionate sex, love and loyalty,  that only happens in the movies.  When two people fall in love, many things are bound to happen, more bad than good.

In most relationships the romance fades after the first year.  The day to day hustle in life is time consuming, so that long walk in the park turns into a quick stroll to the dumpster.

When it comes to sex, both parties are rarely equally satisfied.  One partner climaxes more than the other, and once the woman has barred children, sex becomes a burden instead of intimate pleasure.

Let's not forget about the number one deal breaker of most relationships, infidelity. Cheating and lies should be expected in the average situation.   Some may think they have a loyal spouse, but little do they know what goes on in their absence.  And nowadays infidelity isn't mainly carried out by men, women are becoming just as thirsty or unfulfilled so to speak. Most married couples are unhappy.  Usually one of the two (if not both) wants a divorce, but instead of separating, they stay together out of convenience.  smh... What a shame.

The main problem I've witnessed in many relationships, is that when two people commit, they loose sight of themselves.  The relationship becomes a prison, a trap of sorts,  restricting individuals from being themselves and doing the things they want to do.  "She doesn't like it when I hang with the fellas." "He won't let me vacation with my girls."  "I don't feel like having sex, but if I don't, he might stray." You get the point.  Unnecessary loads of stress and pressure.  Pressure to please someone other than yourself.  And once you stop thinking about you, that's when things really get out of control.

Companionship is no longer a romantic union of two souls, instead its a settling of two people with ulterior motives.  Most people that are pressed to be in a relationship are insecure, unambitious individuals looking for an excuse to exist.  Some are in need of attention, or validation.  While others are looking for someone to take care of them, or someone to control.

So again I ask, why are people so pressed to find love?

Hazardous Cosmetics

Are your personal care product hazardous to your health?

Recent studies conducted by the Environmental Working Group (EWG), state that more than 750 personal care products sold in the US, violate cosmetic safety standards. A large majority of these products lack sufficient data and have never been tested for safety.

These products include: Dove facial cleansers, L'Oreal facial moisturizers/treatment, Suave body wash, Revlon lipstick and many more. Ingredients and chemicals used to make these products potentially cause, birth defects, cancer, infertility and many other severe illnesses. To protect yourself and your loved ones from these hazards, make sure you read the label. Avoid products that contain ingredients such as: Boric Acid, Hydrogen Peroxide, Catalase, Toleune, and many others.

Find out if the products you're using contain hazardous chemicals. Click here for a "skin deep" diagnostic, where you can type in the name of any product and get information on its ingredients and level of toxicity.

Pacquiao Retains WBO Title

After twelve rounds of dancing and play fighting, Manny Pacquiao took the victory over "Sugar" Shane Mosley, by unanimous vote.

Both Pacquiao and Mosley walked away from the fight, CLEAN, without any broken bones, fractures or an ounce of blood shed.  This highly anticipated fight was truly over rated and a huge disappointment to say the least. 

The underperformed fighters left the crowd angry and wanting more.  Many booed during the fight, as Mosley danced around Pacquiao's left hook and threw the lowest percent of  punches in his entire career of boxing.  Mosley's chase made it hard for Pacquiao to land most of his "knock-out" punches, except for one left hook that landed and knocked Mosley off his feet.  That one punch was the highlight of the fight, and the edge that won the judges vote.

It was clear to me that Mosley had no intentions on winning the fight, but wanted to prove that he could go round for round without being "knocked-out."  As it appeared, both fighters had an understanding to simply put on a show and get paid.

After the fight  there were no ill feelings or disagreement with the victory.  Mosley and Pacquiao complemented each other on their performance and left the ring in good spirits.  Their sportsmanship was commendable, but the fight was still a disappointment.   Hopefully Mayweather was watching, and is ready to show the world who the real WBO champion is.

Anti-Gay Adoption Bill Rejected in Virginia

The homophobic opposition of same-sex couples adopting children has become a hot topic across the country.  Legislation to prohibit discrimination against prospective 'gay' parents has been introduced with the "Every Child Deserves a Family Act."  This new bill will make it illegal for foster care and adoption agencies to use sexual orientation, gender identification or marital status as a factor of determining suitable parents.  Many states have already adopted the bill, but Virginia is not in favor of it.  

Virginia's State Board of Social Services voted 7-2 on April 20 to reject the proposal, MetroWeekly reports.   There was no reported comment as to why the Board rejected the bill, but it's clear that Gov. Bob McDonnell advised them to do so.  It's evident that many conservative Americans are unfavorable of same-sex couples adopting, with concerns more so focusing on the well being of the child rather than ones sexual orientation.  The question remains, is foster care a better place for orphans, in comparison to a homosexual household?  How do children of heterosexual households differ from those of same-sex parents?


Numerous studies dispute the notion that kids fare better in heterosexual households, pointing out that children with same-sex parents show no significant differences compared with children in different-sex households. A recent study published in the journal Pediatrics, found that “children raised by lesbian mothers — whether the mother was partnered or single — scored very similarly to children raised by heterosexual parents on measures of development and social behavior.” The researchers also found that “children in lesbian homes scored higher than kids in straight families on some psychological measures of self-esteem and confidence, did better academically and were less likely to have behavioral problems, such as rule-breaking and aggression.”


With these studies one would think that more would in favor of "Every Child Deserves a Family Act."  It's unfortunate that more than 100,000 children in the United States foster care system will never be united with a family or placed in a home that more than two million gay and lesbian people are eager to provide.  U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).


If you support the movement of gay couples adopting children then lift your voice by signing the Gay Rights Petition.

A Mother's Sacrifice

Today I received the cutest Mother's day text from a friend:


"I traded eyeliner for dark circles, salon hair cuts for ponytails and braids, long showers for hairy legs, late nights for early mornings, designer purses for diaper bags....and I wouldn't change a thing.  Moms don't care what we gave up and will continue to give up for our kids."  This is only a small example of the sacrifices mothers make for their children.


I'm sure every mom out there can identify with the text and understands how life changing motherhood can be.  It wasn't until I became a mother myself that I truly realized all the sacrifices my mother made to provide for me and my brother.  This reminder of her sacrifices makes me love her more than I could ever imagine.  I hope some day my child will appreciate me the same way.


To all of the mothers out there, I hope your Mother's Day is filled with many gifts of love and affection.  You deserve it!  From one mom to another...

MediaTakeOut Releases Osama's Death Pic

MediaTakeOut.com released the following photo yesterday, claiming it to be the picture proving Osama bin Laden's death.  

 

The caption following the image read "  A MediaTakeOut.com reader from PAKISTAN sent us the following pic. Apparently they showed this on TV and the PAKISTANI TV anchors claim the pic is REAL."

What do you think?  Does that look like Osama bin Laden to you? 

Osama Covers TIME Magaine

On Monday evening, TIME’s cover lit up the Nasdaq screen in Times Square in Manhattan. The cover features bin Laden’s face covered by a red “X.” This image has become iconic after its use with Hitler, Saddam Hussein and Abu Musab al-Zarqawi. The bin Laden cover was illustrated by Tim O’Brien, who also designed the cover featuring al-Zarqawi. The special issue will hit newsstands on Thursday, May 5, and will be available on the iPad on the same day.

Osama bin Laden Captured & Killed

Intense, doesn't quite describe the moment as  White House officials watched the killing of al-Qaeda leader, Osama bin Laden.  A live video stream of the raid allowed the President and his security team to command the execution of the world's most-wanted terror.  While details of the raid are foggy and several questions are left unanswered, one thing is for sure, bin Laden is dead.  

If you missed President Obama's speech announcing the death of bin Laden, click below.

 

Click here to read more about how the US tracked and captured the 9-11 terror.

Atlanta Cop Assaults Woman

An Atlanta Police officer is under investigation today for assaulting a young woman at an IHOP on Easter Sunday.  A scuffle broke out between the two when the the young lady tried to mediate an argument between the officer and another customer.  The altercation, caught on tape, shows the officer smack and punch the young woman in the face.  Many are questioning whether his actions where excessive or necessary.  Check out footage from the pancake brawl and let me know what you think.

Mz. Monique Promotes Pot

The Neti Pot that is.....

If you suffer from chronic sinus infections then you might want to invest in a Neti Pot.  This solution is a preventative method that helps prevent the build up of mucus, and keeps the nasal passage clear.

I purchased the kit when I was suffering from a sinus infection for nearly two weeks.  I was tired of popping pills and was desperate for relief, so I was willing to try anything.  While the solution didn't relieve my nasal congestion, it proved itself after the infection cleared.  It's been helpful in keeping my nasal cavity open and clear from infection.  It's a healthy and natural alternative to certain medications and if used regularly, it decreases your chance of developing nasal congestion.  If your out of options and looking for a solution, check out the Neti Pot.  It works.

Rich Dad Poor Dad

Now couldn't be a more pressing time for people to get their finances in order.  With gas prices on the rise and foreclosures at an all time high, many are desperate for a bailout.

Finding the right solution to help you secure a better tomorrow isn't easy, but it's possible.  There are many financial books and advisors that can help you achieve financial freedom, but Rich Dad Poor Dad isn't one of them.  

I'm sure you've heard of the infamous financial advisor, Robert T. Kiyosaki and his book "Rich Dad, Poor Dad?"  This book is known to have helped many reach their financial goals.  While some preach the gospel of its teachings, others are calling it a scam.  

I haven't read the book, but I did have the opportunity to sit in on one of the Rich Dad Education workshops, and after 10 minutes into the sales pitch, I realized that it was a fraud. Instead of learning how to save money, the project wanted me to SPEND money and invest in the "Rich Dad Poor Dad" franchise.  After doing a little research, I realized that I wasn't the only one that felt this way.  Check out reviews from other unsatisfied customers.  

So if a Rich Dad workshop comes to your city, run in the opposite direction.  Don't waste your time.  If your looking for a book on financial knowledge check out "Saving Your Financial Soul" by Brian Ayers.  This book is life changing and its affordable.  

Why Women Won't Propose

In the latest episode of "Love and Hip Hop"  Chrissy (pictured left) publicly proposed to her rapper boyfriend, Jim Jones. Viewers response to her actions created an interesting debate of whether or not a woman should ask a man to marry.  

I was shocked to read the comments about Chrissy's proposal.  Many women, said she was "foolish" and "desperate" not only because Jim is a dog, but because "he should be the one to ask."  In traditional times, the man asking a woman is ideal, but does that tradition apply to the world we live in today?

Most women WANT to get married, but reject the idea of being the one to ask.  Partly because it's not the tradition, but mainly because they are afraid of being rejected.  It amazes me how women hold on to certain traditional values but let others fall by the waist side.  Like waiting to have sex until married, living together, or children out of wedlock....the list goes on.  But when it comes to proposing the majority of women would rather wait for years, wasting time, in hopes their man will pop the question instead of being the one to ask.    

I think its great that Chrissy proposed to Jim.  She should be looked upon as an example for women of the 21century.  A woman that loves her man and is not afraid to show it.  A take action kind of woman, that will take the initiative to achieve what she wants in life rather than sitting back and waiting for it to happen.  Being proposed to is nice, but ultimately being together IS the big picture....right?

Paying Too Much For Your Cell Phone?

Ever since I purchased my Iphone, I haven't seen a bill less than $100.  In the beginning I had no complaints, because I figured that's the price you pay for cutting edge technology.  But over time, I felt dooped....especially when Cricket launched it's unlimited text, voice and data plan for only $55/month.

A monthly savings of $60 was enough for me to reconsider how attached I was to my Iphone.   But before I took a leap off the deep end, I called AT&T to discuss my service plan.  After only 5 minutes of evaluating my usage and learning about new features, I was able to lower my bill to only $60/month, including tax. Impressive, I know!  Here's how I did it.

I changed my unlimited talk feature to 450 minutes, free nights and weekends.  In addition to that I changed my data plan to the data plus plan, 200MB.  Why did I choose those options?

Did you know that as of February 1st of this year, you can talk free mobile to mobile with anyone on any network?  It doesn't matter if you have T-mobile and I have AT&T, we talk for free, no minutes required.  With that said, who needs unlimited talk?  Not me.  The only instance you use minutes, is when you call a land line phone, home or business.  And for you Iphone users, did you know that Wi-Fi is also free?  Who needs unlimited data?  Not me.  and neither do you.

Don't let networks rob you blind and leave you paying more than you have to.   Unfortunately they don't inform customers of changes that will lower their monthly bill, so its up to you to stay on top of it.   Call your provider today and save.  If you're paying more than $60/month then you're paying too much!

Help Build The MLK Memorial

To honor the national and international contributions made by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. a memorial will dedicated in his name, on August 28, 2011.  One of the most prestigious sites remaining on the National Mall in Washington, DC has been selected for the MLK Memorial, adjacent to the Franklin D. Roosevelt Memorial, between the Lincoln and Jefferson Memorials. It will be the first major memorial along the National Mall to be dedicated to an African-American, and to a non-president.

So far, $111Mil of the $120Mil goal as been raised, but your help is needed to meet the remaining.  With a small donation of $5, you can help build "The Dream."

Click here to donate online, or you can donate from your mobile phone by following the simple 2-step process below:

STEP 1: Text MLK to 20222

STEP 2: You will receive a text asking you to confirm your $5.00 donation. Please note that in order for your donation to be processed, you must reply to this “confirmation” text message.

A one-time donation of $5.00 will be added to your mobile phone bill or deducted from your prepaid balance. All charges are billed by and payable to your mobile service provider. Service is available on most carriers. Donations are collected for the benefit of the MLK Memorial Foundation by the Mobile Giving Foundation and subject to the terms found at www.hmgf.org/t . Messaging & Data Rates May Apply. All donations must be authorized by the account holder. You can unsubscribe at any time by texting STOP to short code 20222; text HELP to 20222 for help.

D.C. Mayor Released

Washington Mayor Vincent Gray and other top city officials were arrested on Capitol Hill yesterday during a protest of the budget deal House Republicans cut with President Barack Obama, AP reports.

A crowd of about 200 to 300 gathered near the Hart Senate Office Building in opposition to budget provisions passed last week, that placed new limits on the city. One measure prevents Washington from spending government funds, even local money, on abortion services for low-income women. 

Gray said many restrictions that were agreed to as part of the budget deal were “completely unacceptable,” which drove him to protest. He didn't expected he'd be arrested, but is proud he was, saying the budget battle between Congress and the city has just begun, TBD reported.

Gary and six city council members, City Council chairman Kwame R. Brown, council members Yvette Alexander, Sekou Biddle, Micheal Brown, Muriel Browser and Tommy Wells, were released early this morning. There has been no mention of the other 35 civilians arrested in this matter.  More details to come.  Story developing. 

 

Gas Prices On the Rise

If you're like most American's then your not happy with the amount of money your spending at the gas pump.  While gas prices have increased over the past  few weeks, analyst suspect they won't get any better.

WTOP reports that the average price for regular gas is above $3.50 a gallon, in all but one state.  This increase has forced most Americans to cut back on driving .  Major gas-station chains have reported a 3 percent fall in gas sales over the past 5 weeks.  Unfortunately this decline in sales has not put a cap on the rise in price.  Most analysts predict that gas prices will increase to a high of $4 a gallon and some have even predicted $5 a gallon.

Major gas-station chains are trying to woo back customers with incentives and competitive gas prices. To find out where you can get the cheapest gas in your area, Click here.

Protect Public Media

Extremists in Congress are pushing through legislation to slash all funding for NPR, PBS and other public media. This is the closest they have ever come to pulling the plug on the news and cultural programming that a vast majority of Americans support. 

Help fight these attacks by urging your representative to stand with the American people and protect public media.  Click here to sign a petition to put Congress on notice, that: It can't use politics to eliminate the best sources of news and programming in America.
 
For some communities, local NPR and PBS stations are the only source of serious reporting. They also employ thousands of journalists — at a time when commercial newsrooms are shedding jobs. (This article is brought to you by, Free Press Action fund)