IT'S NOT JUST TALK, IT'S ALL GIRL TALK.

On the Low: 7 Ways to tell if your Man might be GAY!

2013-01-23T04:16:00.001-08:00

January 22, 2013 | Author: Angie B

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention,

In 2010, white MSM (men who sleep with men) continued to account for the largest number of new HIV infections (11,200), by transmission category, followed closely by black MSM (10,600).²

Although MSM represent about 4% of the male population in the United States,⁴ in 2010, MSM accounted for 78% of new HIV infections among males and 63% of all new infections.² MSM accounted for 52% of all people living with HIV infection in 2009, the most recent year these data are available.¹

The estimated number of new HIV infections was greatest among MSM in the youngest age group. In 2010, the greatest number of new HIV infections (4,800) among MSM occurred in young black/African American MSM aged 13–24. Young black MSM accounted for 45% of new HIV infections among black MSM and 55% of new HIV infections among young MSM overall.²

Since the epidemic began, almost 300,000 MSM with an AIDS diagnosis have died, including an estimated 6,863 in 2009.³

Sorry so many statistics but I have to bring you the facts. The Truth. Ladies that's mind boggling information and we on the other hand are on the receiving end of the stick sadly. Do you realize that?

Recently I've been drawn back to this topic and I say back because it was just a few years ago, 2004 to be exact when the book "On The Down Low" came out written by a man by the name of J.L King. He talks about Down Low men (straight men who secretly have sex with men for those of you that don't know) and really started to shed some light on this situation. Now here we are 9 years later almost a decade and we are dying at alarming rates....you read the statistics right?

Ladies these are our men whether it be your man or not it could be your brother or uncle or father. Numbers don't lie like a man will. Men I love you but you know you lie and women aren't exempt. So I just wanna shed some light on a few things to look out for. Let's not be in denial ladies because the stuff Terry McMillian was on was some BULL! She new her husband had some "tendencies" she just didn't want to admit it on national television. But can you blame her? That had to be embarrassing. So with my own opinions and a few from some others here's what I formulated about down low men. 7 signs to look out for:

1. Thy shall NOT be thrown off. Is he Overly homophobic?

Personally I think that a man that is just overly homophobic has got to be looked at twice. Why? Any man that has almost a racist type of attitude towards gay men are the ones you should look out for. Just think about it, if a man is really gay or likes men and doesn't want anyone to know ofcourse he's going to come off as being cocky and anti-gay when it comes to men because he doesn't want anyone to know or find out about him.

2. Has he been to the Pen? Penitentiary that is.

We have all heard the stories about what goes on in Prison don't lie you watched OZ on HBO. The HIV and AIDS is running rapid in the prisons where our men reside. Likely you have a cousin, friend, uncle or brother that has served time at some point. Am I right? Just another sign to look out for. We all know what happens in prison. Need I say more?

3. Talks on the phone with other men...often.

Seems like he talks on the phone with his "boys" more than you? Look out! That's a sign to look out for. No man should be talking on the phone all times of the day night with another man. I don't care if that's his best friend. I mean there's a time and place for everything and when you're in a relationship that's a No No. Sometimes he get's off the phone with you to talk to them, just always on the phone with his boys and doesn't have time for you. Keep one eye open.

4. New Freaky Deaky! Wants to try new "freaky" positions.

So out the blue your man wants to try something "New". Okay that's cool and all because I'm all for bringing the spice but what is it exactly you wanna do? He wants to have anal sex with you. Now hold on, if ya'll get down like that then OK to each his own but if this is something new. Look out! Check him lady especially if he persistant just always wanna do it. Threesomes...if this is something new that he's bringing to the table...it's not something to be too leary of but I would keep one eye open.

5. No Sex at all?

It can also be the total opposite extreme to the sex or the lack thereof. Now that he's totally attracted to men, he's just not that into to you boo. Sorry but he's just not physically attracted to you anymore and this could be the reason for the lack of sex in your relationship. Now him no longer being attracted to you can NOT be attributed totally to him being gay. It could be that he's into another woman or you may have gotten so out of shape, that you don't want to even look at yourself in the mirror, why should he?

6. Is he in the mirror more than you? #Metrosexualtothefullest.com

Ladies this is suppose to be us in the bathrooms all across America taking our sweet little time in our mirror making sure everything is perfect not a MAN. Now don't get me wrong, I love a man that knows how to groom himself. Damn that's sexy just thinking about it but there should be a time when you draw the line. You're ready to go almost in the car on your way to dinner and he's still in the mirror arching his eyebrows...WATCH OUT!

7. Jewelry and Body Piercings.

There's nothing wrong with a man wearing jewelry, but when he starts wearing a tounge ring or wearing pinky rings...look out. Anytime a man get's his stomach and nipples pierced that's doing the most and a sure sign that he just might be gay.

On a serious note ladies this is a very sincere topic to me and I don't take it lightly. We have to take some responsibity in the climbing numbers and be more responsible for ourselves. We've lost many sisters and brothers to this epidemic called AIDS. It's up to each and everyone of us to be a part of the solution and NOT the problem. You too have a responsibility and a duty to help in the fight against HIV and AIDS.

To learn more about Down Low Brothas I suggest you read: http://cdn.mediatakeout.com/31541/inside-the-mind-of-a-downlow-brotha-a-secretly-gay-man-explains-his-agenda-in-his-downlow-manifesto.html and http://chroniclesofdownlowbrotha.blogspot.com/2010/08/michael-baisden-do-you-really.html

To learn more about HIV and AIDS epidemic I suggest you follow this link:http://www.cdc.gov/hiv/topics/surveillance/index.htm

I hope you have been informed today and are more aware than you were before, because then I know I have served me purpose...be blessed and please I encourage you to post your comments and let me know what you think about this blog and this topic. Thanks! Peace.

Follow me on Twitter @AngieBanks01

Get the book On The Down Low,by J.L King.

Happy New Year! Ya'll Ain't Ready For KimYe! Congrats to @kanyewest & @KimKardashian!

2012-12-31T12:18:00.001-08:00

Kanye West Reveals Kim Kardashian's Pregnancy On-Stage

BY ZACH FRYDENLUND | DEC 31, 2012 | 12:30 AM | PERMALINK

2012 is going out with a bang as Kanye West just revealed on stage in Atlantic City that Kim Kardashian is pregnant. Nothing yet from Kim or Ye but Khole Kardashian has confirmed via Twitter, which can be seen below. Watch the video below. Stay tuned for more updates as the night progresses.

Team Kanye Daily@TeamKanyeDaily

Kanye West just announced Kim Kardashian is pregnant!

31 Dec 12

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KhloéKardashianOdom

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@KhloeKardashian

KIMYE!!!!!

31 Dec 12

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KhloéKardashianOdom

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@KhloeKardashian

Keeping secrets is hard with so many family members! Especially when you are so freaking excited!!!!! LOVE is everything!!!!

31 Dec 12

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Malik Yusef@malikyusef

Well at least I wasn't the 1 who told the world,but congrats @kaynewest and kimkardashian

31 Dec 12

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Kendall Jenner

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@KendallJenner

whos excited about the KIMYE babbyyy?! :D weeee

31 Dec 12

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Tags: kanye-west, kim-kardashian

Tonight's Exclusive: @TamekaRaymond Sets The Record Straight About @Usher

2012-09-25T10:46:00.001-07:00

via http://necolebitchie.com/2012/09/25/tameka-raymond-dishes-on-usher-sleeping-w...

Tameka Raymond is finally speaking out!

After a long, ugly custody battle that played out for the world to see, which resulted in Tameka losing full custody of her kids to Usher, Tameka is finally dishing her side of the story in an exclusive interview with Entertainment Tonight. In the preview clip leaked by ‘ET,’ Tameka talks about the rumors that Usher bedded down her bridesmaid and best friend saying that he admitted to doing so (regardless of what he may have told Oprah). She also says that even though this might be the ultimate betrayal, she can see how a woman can be caught in the “trap” of Usher’s charm:

He admitted to sleeping with one of the two. It was a very disappointing revelation. I had suspected for some time. You have to understand, this is like family to us. This is someone who was there when my children were born. She took me to the hospital when I was in labor with one of them. I hate to say it but I somewhat empathize with her because I feel that she was vulnerable and she fell into somewhat of a trap.

[A trap how?]

I think that she got very close to him as a result of being my friend and I feel as though he used it to his advantage. I mean, clearly.

[Because he can be charming and just lure the women in or...?]

I think we all would admit that he’s very charming.

Last week, when Usher sat down with Oprah, he was asked about the accusations that he cheated on Tameka with one of her bridesmaids and he responded:

Well, the conversation about the bridesmaid has always been one that’s been complicated, very difficult. Outside of my marriage with her and our separation and our divorce, I did have exchanges with [the bridesmaid]. We were friends. She was someone who was a part of the children’s lives before and it had always been perceived that we were in a relationship or we either had some sort of exchange. This was after the marriage.

Watch a preview of Tameka’s interview (which airs tonight) on ET.

@KeyshiaCole's New Reality Show Finally Premiering This Fall on @BET @@ATLien

2012-08-01T13:21:00.001-07:00

| Written by ATLien

I’ve been updating you for months on the status of Keyshia Cole-Gibson‘s reality show and now all that footage she and hubby Daniel “Booby” Gibson have been gathering can finally be put to use!

[READ: Whatever Happened to Keyshia Cole's "Family First" Reality Show?]

Keyshia, who gained reality show success with her 2006/2007 reality series “Just Like You” and “Keyshia Cole: The Way It Is” is finally returning to BET this fall for a new series entitled, “Keyshia Cole: Family First“.

Details…

BET has officially picked up 6 episodes of Keyshia’s new series.

As you know, cameras were following Keyshia around for quite some time, and were even on the scene when she re-married her NBA husband in Hawaii last year.

[READ: Keyshia Cole Re-Marries Daniel Gibson - PHOTOS]

During her first appearance on BET, Keyshia was a rising r&b songstress with quite a few songs on the charts.

The new show will show her in her in a different light, displaying Cole in her new roles as wife to NBA baller Daniel Gibson, and a mother to their son DJ.

We will also reportedly witness Keyshia working on new music from her upcoming album of the same name.

Keyshia’s no dummy! There will be appearances from family members, like Frankie Lons, who always manages to keep things exciting.

“Family First” is executive produced by James DuBose of DuBose Entertainment, Michele Barnwell, Keyshia Cole and Daniel Gibson.

Will you be tuning in to Keyshia’s long-awaited reality series?

Anthony Q Formerly of Day 26 Signs New Deal! Congrats!

2012-08-01T09:50:00.001-07:00

via http://www.courtneyluv.com/q-making-the-band-day-26/

Anthony Q formerly Que of Day 26 signs new deal

Posted on August 1, 2012 by Jluv

I had a chance to meet up with Anthony Q formerly Que of MTV’s Making the Band. After much controversy and some time off, Q is back with some exciting news and a new outlook on his career. Anthony Q told me that he recently signed a distribution deal with Capitol Records through a partnership that he recently forged with Atlanta heavyweights, Sky’s The Limit Entertainment, LLC. Anthony Q tells me that he is very excited about the new distribution deal and plans to reunite with his fans. Anthony Q boasts to bring a new style, a new look, and new motif to the game.
Anthony Q was quick to offer up some much needed advice to artists that are trying to sign with an independent label; “Work really hard in the studio, make sure you always interact with your fans, practice your talent, and build your brand.” Sound advice from someone who has been with the majors but has strategically positioned himself with an Independent label for longevity in an industry that has suffered many setbacks.
Anthony Q tells us that he wants to be an influence to his fans and that he can’t wait to re establish himself as well as fulfill all of his dreams. In five years, Q hopes to be able to stand before his fans and tell them about his personal struggle; the ups and downs, the good, the bad, and the outright ugly. Most of all Anthony Q would like to share his story to help others and make a lasting mark forever. I forgive you Anthony Q for not giving me deets on the special woman in your life. It is okay. My readers will tell me! He was impacted by the “no work after Diddy” curse that seems to haunt others.

Usher's EX-WIFE Tameka Is Burying Her Son TODAY . . . And She Has Some SPECIAL THANKS To All You That PRAYED For Her!!! @MediaTakeoutTV

2012-07-27T08:19:00.001-07:00

VIA http://cdn.mediatakeout.com/index.html

Kile Glover will be laid to rest today in a private funeral service in Atlanta. Our continued prayers go to Kile, his mother Tameka and all his family and friends . . .

'Meagan Good On Marriage: "One Thing I Would Say To All Women Is Don’t Settle."'

2012-07-24T16:49:00.001-07:00

Newly wed Meagan Good has some advice for single women looking for Mr. Right.

Meagan wants women who are looking to get married to know that there are still some good men out there and that they need to wait on the man God has designed for them.

On a quest for love, some women are willing to relax their standards a little just to say they have a man and Meagan said she just wasn't willing to do that. Too many people settle for what they consider to be "good enough."

“Sometimes…you make what you think are sacrifices because you see there’s potential here, or this person has it in their heart there’s just got to be some growing."

Like most women, Meagan has kissed a few frogs in her day and was happy to meet her now husband, DeVon Franklin, and is absolutely in love with the man he is and is still smitten by him even though the honeymoon is over.

“It’s been pretty amazing,” Meagan said of married life. “He is absolutely the most incredible thing that’s happened to me. We want the same thing out of life and that’s important."

She goes on to talk about how the both of them want to a closer relationship with God and how their walk with Christ makes their relationship so strong.

continue reading over at TractHerTrailHer.com

Miasha Tells How She Was Able To 'Write Her Way Out The Hood' With A 6-Figure Book Publishing Deal@AuthorMiasha

2012-07-17T16:43:00.001-07:00

How She Did It: Miasha Tells How She Was Able To 'Write Her Way Out The Hood' With A 6-Figure Book Publishing Deal

What's Her Name?

Miasha Coleman, 32

What's Her Occupation?

Jay-Z’s lyrics, “I wrote my way out the hood and I pray that I stay out for good” best describes Miasha. She used her pen as a way out of an environment that incuded a broken home and two crack-addicted parents.

Unlike many first time authors, particularly those of urban literature, Miasha did not have to self-publish her work before getting a deal. Instead, she managed to gain the attention of several major publishing houses, causing a bidding war to ensue. Publishing powerhouse Simon and Schuster was the highest bidder, granting Miasha a six-figure deal.

After she penned her first novel, 'Secret Society', Miasha went on to become an Essence Best Selling Author, as well as the first urban-literature author to be featured in Elle Magazine. She's also been featured across the nation through outlets such as BET, CBS, and The Wendy Williams Experience. She is the author of 7 novels, 6 of which she authored during her first three years in the business, and one of which she adapted into a stage play that sold out on every one it's tour dates. Miasha is now living her dreams as a best-selling author, wife, and mother of two. Continue reading to find out how she did it.

How She Got Started: I used to write poetry and short stories when I was a little girl so I always knew that I wanted to be an author, but I didn’t think it would happen until later on in my life after I had a career and retired. I thought maybe after I retired that I’d write my autobiography. It just so happened that at my college graduation the keynote speaker was an author, and hearing her story really inspired me because I knew that writing was a passion of mine since I was young. It felt as if she was talking directly to me. At that moment, I made a decision that I wasn’t going to search for a job after college. I was going to write a book.

What She Did After Writing The Book: I wrote my first book, ‘Secret Society‘, in 3 months. I then reached out to that author who spoke at my college graduation, Karen Quinones Miller. Karen’s story just so happen to be that she had written a book and nobody would publish it, so she published it herself and sold so many copies in such a short amount of time that the publishers started knocking at her door. In my mind, I figured that I wasn’t even going to go through the rejection process. I was just going to self-publish my first book, get a bunch of sales, and the publishing houses will come to me.

I remembered her name from my graduation and I googled it. I found her email address on her website. I sent her an email and told her that she inspired me, that I had written a book, and I wanted some advice on how to self-publish it. She responded not long after and her advice to me was to try to get a publishing deal first and then use self-publishing as a last resort. She told me that self publishing is very time consuming, that it costs a lot of money, and that a lot of self-publishers fail.

I took her advice after writing the book and reached out to Terry Woods, who’s huge in urban literature. Terry actually wanted to buy my book outright. She also wanted me to write a second book before signing me to a five book publishing deal. I was ecstatic, but before I signed the deal....

Continue Reading Here

Would You Wear Boots In Summer! There's a Right and a Wrong Way

2012-07-17T16:39:00.001-07:00

via http://iamlala.com/blog/post/tuesday-shoesday-how-to-wear-summer-boots

People often assume that boots are only a fall/winter thing, but I think that nothing makes your legs look longer and sexier than a pair of knee-high boots and some cute cutoffs. The key to choosing a pair of summer-appropriate boots is a looser fit and a lighter color. If your boots are too tight or have too high of a heel, they can definitely end up looking a little go-go dancer.

My boots were Givenchy, but if you want the same look for less I found this fabulous Vince Camuto pair for a fraction of the price. Invest in a new pair of boots now, and they’ll take you from the warmer months all through the winter season!

Would you rock boots with a pair of shorts? Let me know in the comments!

Stevie J Responds To Engagement Rumors!

2012-07-17T16:35:00.001-07:00

Stevie J responds to engagement rumors

Did Stevie J pop the question to 'Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta' co-star Joseline Hernandez?

Posted Tue, 2012-07-17 13:51 by Tracy Scott

Did Stevie J pop the question to 'Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta' co-star Joseline Hernandez?

Stevie J wouldn’t confirm or deny rumors that he’s engaged to “Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta” co-star Joseline Hernandez.

“I ain’t ready to say nothing,” he told Sister 2 Sister when asked about the latest gossip.

A recent photo of Stevie and Joseline, in which she’s wearing a huge rock on her left hand, was posted to Twitter and blogs were buzzing with speculation that Stevie had popped the question.

“They’re saying a lot,” Stevie said about the reports.

According to MediaTakeout.com, not only did Stevie propose, but he did so in front of the cameras in a “moving” and “touching” scene.

When the show premiered, Stevie was still involved in an on-again off-again relationship with co-star Mimi Faust. However, after watching Stevie and Joseline together on TV, Mimi ended their years-long romance.

That leaves Stevie a single man, free to date or marry Joseline or any of his other admirers.

“Me and all my babymamas, we all happy,” Stevie said.

—Tracy L. Scott

Do you believe the rumors? Are Joseline and Stevie J engaged? Do they make a good couple? Leave your comments below.

Here's more:

Mimi: Stevie wasn't always a 'horrible monster'
Joseline Hernandez blasts haters on Twitter

Tagged: Stevie J, Joseline Hernandez, Love & Hip Hop Atlanta, Love and Hip Hop Atlanta

Evelyn Lozada Reveals Her Wedding Dress!

2012-07-12T15:52:00.001-07:00

Get the latest on your favorite celebs, like Evelyn Lozada, who finally revealed one of her wedding dresses. Then see how Charlamagne Tha God narrowly escaped a beatdown outside the Power 105.1 studio. And check out who Tamar Braxton was chowing down with last night. But first, find out why Mitt Romney got booed (twice) at an NAACP convention.

—Sonya Eskridge

We've seen Evelyn Lozada's ring, but now we get to see her wedding dress.

The "Basketball Wives" star tried on tons of bridal gowns, but it looks like she settled on a sweetheart, trumpet-cut dress for the ceremony.

Evelyn seems to have capped off the look with a bejeweled veil. See what else Evelyn wore below.

Check out the shoes Chad wore down the aisle. You know he couldn't be completely traditional!

5 Fun New Ways to Wear a French Manicure!

2012-07-12T11:50:00.001-07:00

by Beth Shapouri

I've been dying over all the gorgeous French manicure ideas on Pinterest! Even if regular Frenchies aren't your thing, I bet there's at least one look in this bunch you'll love in this bunch below:

Idea 1: You can go black and white with polka dots:

Source: pshiiit.com via Beth on Pinterest

Idea 2: You can go with black tips over light pink:

Source: pshiiit.com via Beth on Pinterest

Idea 3: Try glitter tips.

Source: instagr.am via Beth on Pinterest

Idea 4: Color it turquoise.

Source: makeupsavvy.co.uk via Beth on Pinterest

And idea 5: Add another stripe.

Source: nailside.blogspot.com via Beth on Pinterest

5 fun ideas! Which would you wear? Oh, and p.s. There are more ideas over on my Grown-up Nail Ideas Pinterest board.

Keywords:

ENTER FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN!

2012-06-28T11:53:00.001-07:00

Enter Now for a chance to win all 45 shades of new & improved Nailwear Pro+ Nail Enamel!

Check out my page for more information or to enter!

http://theessenseofbeauty.avonrepresentative.com

#SMH-Tamar Wants To Sue K.Michelle?

2012-06-28T11:43:00.001-07:00

SHOTS FIRED! TAMAR THREATENS TO SUE HIP HOP ATLANTA’S K. MICHELLE

Here.We.GO! R&B singer & reality show star Tamar Braxton is known for being over the top. But this time she might have picked the wrong target.

When the VH1 reality show Love & Hip-Hop Atlanta premiered on Monday, the twitterverse’s eyes were glued to their televisions and timelines. Singer K. Michelle was on the show telling her personal story of being in an abusive relationship.

Though K. Michelle never actually named her alleged abuser during the episode, Tamar gathered along with many other viewers that she was referring to her ex-boyfriend, rapper/producer Memphitz, who just recently celebrated his one-year anniversary with wife and close friend of Tamar, Antonia Carter.

During the show, Tamar tweeted that people should just let Toya have her fairytale, and K. Michelle later fired back in an interview saying that she “jumps gates” and that Tamar looks like a muppet.

Shortly after the interview, Tamar expressed that she felt threatened by K. Michelle, wants a public apology, and filed a “cease and desist” order against the reality star. WOW!

The drama continued when K. Michelle called into TT Torrez’ radio show on IPower Richmond to talk about the premiere of Love & Hip-Hop: Atlanta and why she is angry at Tamar Braxton rather than Memphitz and Toya Carter.

Meanwhile Memphitz took to Twitter to clear all this mess up…

“As I was installing the Teeth, Titties, & Ass you’re Flaunting, I forgot to tell you about the Growing Nose,” he tweeted along with a photo of Pinocchio, the fictitious boy whose nose grew when he told a lie. K. Michelled sent out a series of tweets, which seemed to be (indirectly) directed at Memphitz later. “A persons true colors will always show. Never fight a battle that God already won for u. I’m still standing,” she wrote.

Oh yeh, in case ya missed it…another cast member on Love & Hip Hop ATL is in the headlines after pics of his “you know what” leaked online…peep it here!

Peep K. Michelle’s interview that got Tamar all fired up!

Lawd Lawd!

What do you think about this drama?

SCOOP: SUPERGORGE/MTV

LaToya Jackson Remembers Michael Jackson on 3rd Anniversary of His Death

2012-06-25T16:12:00.001-07:00

via. http://www.essence.com/2012/06/25/exclusive-la-toya-jackson-remembers-michael...

EXCLUSIVE: LaToya Jackson Remembers Michael Jackson on 3rd Anniversary of His Death

By Yolanda Sangweni

It’s hard to believe today marks the third anniversary of Michael Jackson’s death. His older sister La Toya Jackson tells ESSENCE.com that June 25 is meaningful, but it’s really no different from other days for his family members. “Every day we miss him; it’s not just one day,” she says. “This particular day brings up stronger memories, but it’s no different than the other days for us.”

Jackson, whose memoir Starting Over was recently released on paperback, says she will most likely spend the day with her family in Los Angeles. “The ones that are here will get together,” she adds.

As to her brother’s legacy, the former Celebrity Apprentice contestant says she is proud of how MJ’s fans keep his memory alive. “I do like the fact that Michael is respected,” she says. “In all fairness, we will never have an entertainer as great as Michael was. They just don’t make them that way anymore."

"Every song that [Michael] made was just so meaningful. The message in his songs is one of love."

The King of Pop passed away as Jackson was putting the finishing touches on Starting Over, a New York Times bestseller that details how she broke free of an abusive marriage with former manager Jack Gordon. “I was so naïve when he took me away from my family,” Jackson says, describing her tumultuous marriage. “He took advantage of that, because I didn’t know the outside world. I only knew Jehovah’s Witnesses and my family."

Jackson hopes the book will help women get through their own struggles with domestic abuse. "If I can walk away, so can they," she says.

In Case You Missed It Watch #LoveAndHipHopATL Episode #1 The 'A' List: @AngieBanks01 Review

2012-06-19T09:44:00.000-07:00

My Blantly Open No Holds Barred In My Exact Words Unscripted Review

Now let me be the first to say that I myself was definitely entertained. The show wasn't in my opinion all that bad. I absolutely love me some K. Michelle. Period. That's my sister from another mother hands down. After the show I learned so much more about the person and artist known as K. Michelle. Them other chicks, I'm just not so sure about and let me tell you why. The industry is just simply what it is and K. Michelle said it best and I quote, "They don't care about your hurt all they want is for you to shut up and sing." The industry is simply just hardcore and anybody who's been in the industry knows this.

Now this Ragamuffin chick Joseline needs to go sit her ass down. Period ,as my gurl Mz. Muse would say. Just go sit down, you have no substance to me. First off, even though Stevie is not married to MiMi, they still have a long term relationship to the point where Jose can't even be a real enough woman and just say what it is that's going on between her and Stevie. Shit MIMi is baby momma not wifey, but apparently Jose respects either Stevie or MiMi enough to try to play the role as if "ain't nuthin goin on" with the two of them.

The other reason why Jose needs to sit her ass down is due to her lack of experience as an artist and the industry. K. Michelle who's not so new to the industry herself was correct in telling Jose at the club how the industry works and although she hasn't been bit yet that her day is coming. And I'm not saying that too hate or her but to me she's not humble enough. You will get fucked up in this industry. Yeah Stevie J. might be overly mesmerized by that ass now, but shit if he blantingly does MiMi, who's a beautiful woman, wrong than he will definitely fuck over you too Jose Pooh. You are a beautiful woman and all but baby you just have to be smarter than that. Yeah the money may be great but where's your dignity and integrity as a woman. Any woman that's playin second best is second class and I'm #1 period. Bascially your the side line hoe that My girl Monica song about. That's you Boo Boo!

Now a quick conversation about Momma Dee and Lil Scrappy baby mama, Erica . It's so hard dating a man when his mother thinks she's his woman. I know I've been there. I think Momma Dee need to let those two do them. Period. I know a mother's love for her son and all but damn you gotta get out of their business. Give you opinion Momma and get off the throne.

Well I guess we will have to see what play out in the remaining shows.

What do you think so far will you be tuning in?

So now that I've ranted, please feel free to comment below and give me your thoughts.

Thank You!

Will Your Man Be A Good Father? 8 Signs That Say YES!! via @MLmacalino >>>http://bit.ly/MCsLMl

2012-06-18T23:29:00.001-07:00

Will Your Man Be A Good Father? 8 Signs That Say YES!!

by BLACK LOVE AND MARRIAGE.COM on JUNE 18, 2012

in FATHERHOOD

By Mona Lisa Macalino

Sure, he’s a great boyfriend or fiance, but how would he fare on the fatherhood front?

Father’s Day just passed, and amidst all of the celebrating and gift-giving, I can’t help but feel happy (and a little relieved) knowing that my future hubby will be an amazing father to my children one day.

So how do you tell if your Mr. Perfect will translate into a stellar dad? Here are some telltale signs:

1. He posts pictures of his nephews’ or little cousins’ elementary school art projects on Facebook, proclaiming that he can’t wait to be a dad.

2. This one’s a no-brainer: He loves kids and babies, and they love him. I swear that all babies love my fiancé, even the most fickle.

3. He attends your little brother’s baseball games and truly looks forward to mingling and playing ball with the little ones.

4. He adapts to outside circumstances easily and can go with the flow. He always comes up with another plan on the spot when things go wrong, like when it rains on your Disneyland vacation.

5. He loves to stay home with you just as much, if not more than, partying all night with the boys.

6. He doesn’t have a scary temper. This one’s important — you don’t want your kids to deal with the scars of his rage on you or them.

7. He’s patient, stable and loves you unconditionally. Your future offspring will know that no matter what happens, he will always be there for them.

8. He knows how to work as a team — super important when you’re raising children! You’ll feel safe knowing that you’re in it together as you both transition into parenthood.

Source

Summer Look #158 California Gold Zero+MariaCornejo Libi Draped Washed-Satin Dress

2012-06-18T23:03:00.001-07:00

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Officials Seek End To 'Stop-and-Frisk' via @TheFinalCall

2012-06-16T00:55:00.001-07:00

via finalcall.com http://bit.ly/NsWGde

Officials seek end to 'stop-and-frisk'

BY ASKIA MUHAMMAD -SENIOR CORRESPONDENT- | LAST UPDATED: JUN 15, 2012 - 3:44:17 PM

What's your opinion on this article?

WASHINGTON (FinalCall.com) - A delegation that included dozens of New York City council members, state assembly members, as well as several advocacy groups led by the NAACP and the New York Civil Liberties Union, descended on the U.S. Capitol June 7 after urging the Justice Department to investigate the New York City Police Department’s controversial “stop-and-frisk” program.

Last year New York police stopped, searched and questioned nearly 700,000 people—mostly Black and Latino men. In fact, there were more stops of young Black males than their total population in the city.

“They have come to Capitol Hill to educate members of Congress of the NYPD’s abuse of the stop-and-frisk practices, and highlight the deleterious affect it is having on minority communities in New York City,” Rep. Yvette Clarke (D-N.Y.) told reporters at a press conference she convened.

“As you all know, we are gathered here to denounce the misuse of the stop-and-frisk policies implemented by the NYPD,” Rep. Clarke continued. “When over a half a million people are stopped while walking through their neighborhoods, and are physically searched by law enforcement, and over 88 percent of them are found to be law abiding citizens, there should be no doubt that the police practices are violating people’s civil liberties and civil rights.

Graphic: Screen shots of the “Stop and Frisk Watch” smartphone app.

“When you have Black and Latino men making up only 4.7 percent of the city’s population, but accounting for 41.6 percent of the stops in 2011, we must look at how these policies are being used, and see why such a large disparity exists. When we found out that over 524,873 stops were made in 2011, and only one gun for every 3,000 people was produced, we have to question, whether or not these practices are effective.

“This should be an outrage. Ninety percent of the young Black and Latino men stopped were innocent. With numbers like these, it is clear to see that the abuses of the policies rely solely, solely, on racial profiling,” Rep. Clarke continued.

Racial profiling, as well as spying against Muslims in New York City, the lawmakers complained, only points to the many instances of racial and religious profiling throughout the nation.

In a separate action, Muslims in New Jersey filed a federal lawsuit June 6 demanding the New York Police Department stop its surveillance of mosques, businesses, college campuses and other gathering spots as part of its anti-terrorism campaign. The lawsuit was filed in U.S. District Court in Newark on behalf of several Muslim organizations, private businesses and individuals, said Muslim Advocates, a national civil rights group, according to published reports. The suit asks the court to prohibit further monitoring of the Muslim community in New Jersey by the NYPD and to eliminate any record created by past spying by police.

The blanket surveillance of Muslims which has gone on for months by the NYPD “casts guilt on all people of that faith by suggesting that Muslims pose a special threat to public safety” and, as a result, Muslims who live in New Jersey suffer “significant stigma,” the lawsuit said.

“When we (in the Midwest) see abuses of human rights, widespread spying, racial profiling, we get nervous because if they’re doing it, we’re next for sure,” Rep. Keith Ellison (D-Minn.)—the first Muslim elected to Congress—told the press conference. “There’s no police department that has not gone through decades of trying to enforce the law equally, and at the same time dealing with everything from police brutality to spying. This is not a New York problem. This is a national problem,” said Rep. Ellison.

Graphic: Screen shots of the “Stop and Frisk Watch” smartphone app.

But city officials defend the controversial practice. “I understand why some people are calling for the stops to be eliminated entirely, but there’s no denying that the stops take guns off the streets and save lives,” New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg told the congregation at Brooklyn’s First Baptist Church of Brownsville before marching in the National Puerto Rican Day Parade June 10. “And to borrow a phrase from President Clinton, I believe the practice needs to be ‘mended, not ended’ to ensure that stops are conducted appropriately with as much courtesy as possible,” he said.

Mr. Bloomberg said the NYPD has been told any racial profiling will not be tolerated, but that certain neighborhoods may be targeted due to crime rates. “The reasons why police officers make stops in Brownsville and East New York is not because of race. It is because of crime,” he said. “Brownsville and East New York remain two of the highest crime areas in our city.”

Opponents of the practice disagree. “This is not about criminals. This is about a generation that’s been criminalized, targeted and brutalized by the police,” organizer Jamel Mims, himself a victim of stop-and-frisk told Pacifica Radio’s “Democracy Now!”

Meanwhile, NAACP President Benjamin Jealous marched with Service Employees International Union, Local 1199 union head George Gresham and union members in the same Puerto Rican Day Parade to protest stop-and-frisks.

“Ninety percent of the people are so innocent that they don’t get a ticket, and so this constant harassing of our children has to stop,” Mr. Jealous said according to a published report.

“You can’t stop more 16-24 year old young Black men than exist in the city of New York and say that something is not right,” New York City Council member Jumaane Williams told the press conference on Capitol Hill. “If you look at the amount of guns that come off the street, there is no other policy that would be allowed to be continued if that policy represented 1.9 percent success rate. Over 90 percent of the people are innocent.

“The people most likely to get summoned, arrested, or have contraband or weapons on them, are the people who are White and Caucasian in these stops. Yet the people who are more likely to have aggression used on them are the Black and Latino stops,” said Mr. Williams, who is the chair of the City Council’s Black, Latino, and Asian Caucus. He insisted that despite this policy, there are no fewer shootings in the city than there were when Mr. Bloomberg took office, and before the policy was initiated.

So I'd love to hear your thoughts about this "program"....I'll wait...

Feel free to voice your comments below

Well What Do Ya Know! Kelz Owes Uncle Sam Over $5Mil

2012-06-15T18:31:00.001-07:00

via http://straightfromthea.com/2012/06/14/r-kelly-tax-lien-irs-uncle-sam/

Singer R. Kelly is the most recent victim of those mythical “Hip-Hop Police”!

The federal government is a bit perturbed at Kelz today after he has failed to pay almost $5 Million dollars in back taxes!

According to documents filed by the IRS, Mr. Kelly hasn’t paid his taxes in almost 7 years and the want all their dough!

Wesley Snipes might need to make room for a freaky bunk mate who can sing him to sleep.

Details below…

R. Kelly may believe he can fly but it’s gonna take huge leaps & bounds to get over this whopping $4.8 million tax debt!

According to TMZ, Kelly owes money on his taxes going way back to 2005 and it breaks down like this…

2005 – $1,472,366.77
2006 – $710,520.51
2007 – $376,180.11
2008 – $1,122,694.90
2009 – $173,815.18
2010 – $992,495.24

… for a total of $4,848,072.71.

A rep for Kelly states he is currently “in the process of working everything out with the government and is confident that all his obligations will be satisfied.”

Welp… it’s not like he doesn’t have it…. but who wants to cut a check for almost $5 million dollars to Uncle Sam? That’s gotta hurt!

I guess we should start taking bets on when Diddy’s name will be on the list…

@drsherryonline Tells It Like It Is In Her Recent Article Entitled: He Won't Marry Me, Should I Stay I Leave?

2012-06-15T14:29:00.001-07:00

via http://www.essence.com/2012/06/14/ask-dr-sherry-he-wont-marry-me-should-i-leave/

Ask Dr. Sherry: He Won't Marry Me, Should I Leave?

By Dr. Sherry

You've seen celebrity clinical psychologist Dr. Sherry Blake, author of The Single Married Woman: True Stories of Why Women Feel All Alone In Their Marriages, keep the Braxton sisters calm on the hit show Braxton Family Values, and now it's your turn to sit in her chair...

Q: My boyfriend and I have been together for six years, and I'm really itching to get married now. I know he's ‘The One’ but he just won't ask me. We've talked about marriage, but he always makes it sound so far away. I'm getting fed up and want to give him an ultimatum. Is that a bad idea?" – Chanel

A: Chanel, while he may be “the one” for you, are you really “the one” for him? The fact that you have been dating him for six years and he has not asked you to marry him suggests that he may not be ready for marriage and/or you may not be “the one” for him. Have you had an honest conversation regarding wanting to get married? When you say, “he always makes it sound so far away,” does that mean he has goals that he is trying to achieve before marriage? If so, you can respect that but you really don’t have to accept that if you want to be married right now.

If you feel that he is truly the person for you, it may be worth waiting for him to achieve his goals, if he has some. However, if he is shuffling his feet and giving you a “song and dance,” you must be honest with yourself. Many times men become very comfortable with relationships, especially if they have everything they want without the commitment of marriage. Ask yourself, are you making it easy and very comfortable for him not to be married to you? You definitely do not want to marry someone that you have given an ultimatum. Marriage is something two willing parties should enter happily without reservations. If he feels pressured, he may or may not marry you. Again, you have to ask yourself, is that how I want to enter my marriage?

Maybe it is time for you to have a heart-to-heart conversation with him to gain an understanding of where he is at this time. After your conversation, assess if he is serious about marriage now or in the near future. If you determine he is not, maybe it is time for you to say I love you but I have to move on with my life. Six years is definitely long enough to know if you would want to commit to someone. The fact that he has not “popped” the question may be a dead giveaway of how he honestly feels underneath. Sometimes it is not what people say, it is what they do not say that let’s you know how they feel. Be smart and listen carefully to the verbal and nonverbal signs! You must decide how long you are going to wait in hopes of him “popping” the question. Life is too short. Go for what you want and be prepared to move on! -- Dr. Sherry

Email us your questions for Dr. Sherry now, and be sure to include "Ask Dr. Sherry" in the subject line!

If you're coming to the ESSENCE Music Festival this summer, you'll be able to ask her in person. Dr. Sherry will be on hand to help out with your burning dating and relationship dilemmas during the festival so if you're coming to New Orleans, be sure to stop by the ESSENCE.COM live stage to say hello.

Latest Update: Chris Brown and Drake Fight

2012-06-15T14:20:00.001-07:00

via http://www.blackmediascoop.com/2012/06/14/chris-brown-bloody-after-fight-with...

ARREST MADE IN CHRIS BROWN & DRAKE FIGHT

The manager of the Manhattan hotspot where a fight broke out between Chris Brown & Drake’s crews was arrested today (Friday), police sources said.

Jonathan Cantor was busted after police responding to complaints from neighbors complaining about the noise at his other SoHo club, the Greenhouse, discovered he had two outstanding warrants. We’ve learned cops are still investigating and have already spoken with Breezy.

We toldya things got bloody after Chris Brown and Drake allegedly clashed in a NY club Wednesday night! Breezy was treated in the hospital after he was allegedly hit in the face with a bottle by someone in Drake’s entourage. Nearly 10 others were injured during the drama including 24-year-old Hollie C. She had to get 16 stitches!

The club was virtually destroyed in the wake of the fight. There’s shattered glasses and bottles everywhere and champagne buckets knocked over. “There was blood all over,” an eyewitness said. “Both of their entourages got involved and it all got really out of control really fast. The club was unrecognizable afterwards!”

According to the insider, Drake was smoking marijuana before the fight broke out.

Breezy posted a gruesome snap of his injury on his Twitter page, (seen below) but later removed it. The two singers have had a long-running feud over Drake’s fling with Chris’s ex Rihanna.

But when they met at WIP club last night, Chris sent a bottle of champagne to Drake’s table as a peace offering. Unconfirmed reports say the bottle was returned with a note referring to Rihanna which read: “I’m f****** the love of your life, deal with it.”

Chris then flew into a rage and confronted Drake, who threw a punch. Before the Turn Up The Music singer could retaliate, onlookers say another man hit him in the face with a bottle.

Security broke up the fight and Drake left with his entourage. Chris and his longtime bodygard, Big Pat (seen below) were rushed to the hospital. An insider says “This could be big trouble for Chris Brown if the club owner turns over the video to cops. Chris maintains that he was only acting in self-defense and feared for his safety. Since no when reported any injuries or has followed up with a police report, he’s hopeful that this will blow over.”

He later tweeted: “How u party wit rich n**** that hate? Lol… Throwing bottles like girls? #shameonya!” Furiously venting on Twitter with a series of posts that he subsequently removed, the singer also wrote: “N****s in the bathroom b**ch a** n****s.”

The 23-year-old split with Rihanna in February 2009 after he assaulted her in a violent row before the Grammy awards. Despite their rivarly, an unreleased track featuring both Chris and Drake called Yamaha Mama surfaced online last month.

WATCH it all go down…

What do you think?

SCOOP: TWITTER/ENTERTAINMENTWISE

Nail Nails Nails! EZ Wrap Nails Video

2012-06-15T14:14:00.001-07:00

via. http://iamlala.com/blog/cat/beauty-and-fashion

Ooh La La: Wrap It Up

I love polish as much as the next girl, but who likes waiting for it to dry? Nail wraps are the perfect solution for when you barely have time to do your nails before heading out the door or want some real detail in your nail art. With tons of brands from Sally Hansen to Melody Ehsani coming up with their own nail wraps these days, you’ve got a wide selection to choose from…

And the thing is, nail wraps are actually a lot easier to apply than you might think. Check out this little tutorial:

What do you think—are you going to give it a try?

Nail Talk: Avon's Celebrity Manicurist @MichelleSaunders Talks Nails and Demo's Swirl Effect Nails! #beauty #nails

2012-06-12T01:35:00.001-07:00

There's not a better season to get more excited about nail colors than in the Summertime. I absolutely have to have the right color. It's almost like picking the right color shoe to match the right outfit. Super Important! Needless to say that when you do pick the right color you also want your polish to be of good quality. So Avon has made it exceptionally easy for you to do this. Not only can you get a great finish for your hands but the peace of mind in knowing that not only are you strenghtening your nails but growing them as well.

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STABILITY vs AMBITION. What do you look for in a man??

2012-06-11T18:29:00.001-07:00

Tonight we opened up a panel for discussion via a twitter. Among the topics were STABILITY vs AMBITION. What do you look for in a man?? Here were some of the responses. Add yours below: