Internet Censorship: W.T.H????

I have a very personal experience with bullying...even in my 32 years of living, I have never experienced so much negative power use in all of my life. Certainly, just because I was naive to its existence doesnt mean that it didnt exist. However, political and legal bullying is on the rise and for me its confirmation that this is the first stage of this worlds' catclysmic end. First Bush, the Afghan war, and now an attempt to limit the transfer of free knowledge. Did they miss the memo, that ignorance is more expensive?

According to Google, The U.S. government could order the blocking of sites using methods similar to those employed by China in an attempt to combat the growth of piracy and counterfeiting. Among other things, search engines could be forced to delete entire websites from their search results. This legislation could greatly damage the free tool known as the internet and a plethora of information that is at our fingertips could be no more. This would be a horrid thing for the American economy. Social networking sites, blogs, and search engines would be censored. Whatever happened to freedom of speech, or any other right granted in our Constitution? This bullying act of censorship would not only limit the access to knowledge that so many educators and students use, it would also worsen the employment epidemic, and overkill our already recession ladened nation. Im almost willing to bet that it would cause a mass panic because at that point we would be forced to regress into an era before the world wide web. Wouldnt that be tragic?

It appears that the U.S. government is under the impression that its citizens are walking around absentmindedly or worse ignorantly; thinking that we dont recognize that it is once again utilizing its power to bully business owners and innovators alike in an attempt to take our money and line their own pockets. Now dont get me wrong, piracy is illegal and I get the gist of why they are proposing the the Protect IP Act (PIPA) in the Senate and the Stop Online Piracy Act (SOPA) in the House, however, it seems like they are willing to punish the good guys for the bad guys' actions. Google indicates that these acts alone would do more harm than good in that it wouldnt even stop piracy. "The censorship regulations written into these bills won’t shut down pirate sites. These sites will just change their addresses and continue their criminal activities, while law-abiding companies will suffer high penalties for breaches they can’t possibly control. There are effective ways to combat foreign “rogue” websites dedicated to copyright infringement and trademark counterfeiting, while preserving the innovation and dynamism that have made the Internet such an important driver of American economic growth and job creation. Congress should consider alternatives like the OPEN Act, which takes targeted and focused steps to cut off the money supply from foreign pirate sites without making US companies censor the Web."

To be nice about it all, I will say that its just stupid! One Word to describe the notion: BULLSHIT!!! To do your part, sign your name to the petition by following the link https://www.google.com/landing/takeaction/

"Buzzworthy Cravings, Creatively Satisfied!"

4th Quarter of Change U.N.I.T.Y. Event: Poverty In America Awareness Press Release

U.N.I.T.Y. events inspire through the arts including music and poetry. These events are structured to creatively address socioeconomic hardships including but not limited to domestic violence, self esteem, homelessness, hunger, and poverty. The arts have proven to bring about a sense of healing to those affected by the effects of calmative hardships and adversity. The Arts Advocate is a triple threat to adversity as an advocate, artist, and activist. Artists showcased in these events have evoked an incalculable impact through various art forms.

The purpose of Xquizit Xperiencez is to provide a platform for talent to function while inducing the visualization of creativity evoking Xquizit Xhalations.  Art In Mo$h*n is far from ordinary! From leaping dancers covered in paint to eclectic venues you are guaranteed a mesmerizing experience.  If you have yet to witness art in motion, dare not miss the opportunity this weekend! 

The Arts Advocate and Xquizit Xperiencez invite you to the 4th Quarter of Change U.N.I.T.Y. Event: Poverty in America Awareness and Toiletries For Families Anniversary Celebration with a special expo by ART IN MO$H*N on Saturday, January 21, 2012 6pm-10pm at Isis Houston. The 4th Quarter of Change U.N.I.T.Y. (Uplifting Nonprofits In The communitY) Event is benefiting The Bread of Life and The Art Project Houston. Please support them by making tax deductible donations and/or contributing toiletry and art supply donations! 

This event is SPONSORED by Sweet Tooth Media , Xquizit*Xperiencez & Xhalationz,   The Arts Advocate, The Spice Project, Nathaleen Ree, Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, Tattoos by MU!, Toiletries for Families, Urban Houston Network, POM TV on UTN, Madd Poets, The Tré Magazine, Infinite Deep Galaxy  Kategory Five Productions, , Houston Press, Allhouston Artgenres, I.C.O.N. Lifestyle Monthly, Digital Phyah Photography, www.a1hh.com, www.SwaggaKings.com. ROCK DAT Beat Radio, and Dodge Us Car Club (D.U.C.C.) If you are interested in a personal or professional sponsorship, please contact The ARTS Advocate at 713-396-2787 

"Buzzworthy Cravings, Creatively Satisfied!"

Houston, TX- No Heart, No Hustle Mixtape: Released December 25, 2011 Featuring the Magnificent, Yung Crusay

Its Christmas Day, midnight and all of the little children are tucked away in their beds waiting for Santa's arrival. Parents are up staging the house, adding finishing touches to perfect gifts and tasty trimmings. I, on the other hand, am eagerly waiting for the rest of the world to hear, the realest sounds of hip-hop music since the days of Biggie and Pac. I had the chance to take a sneak peak of  the No Heart, No Hustle Mixtape by Dirty Bizness Ent.'s own Yung Crusay. Released at midnight on December 25, 2011 No Heart, No Hustle, is exactly what radio airwaves need. Surely you all know that you wont find the year's important or greatest hip-hop releases in any store. Such greatness can't be shelved....!!!!! 

No Heart, No Hustle is by far the best mixtape that I've heard in quite sometime and lets just say as a blogger, I get hundreds of mixtape links a day from various artists. No disrespect is intended for anyone, but unless it makes me move from beginning to end, its not worth mentioning. I happened to listen to this mixtape during my work out, which was perfectly timed by the way. No Heart, No Hustle was 45 minutes of a phenomenal compilation of production, hooks, and lyrics. Songs like Watch Yo Chick and Gangs All Hear, are most definitely club bangers with their anthem like beats, commands you to indulge lyrically and bounce your head. True to its mixtape title; No Heart, No Hustle, Gettin It, pays homage to all the hustlers, focused on making it happen. No Heart, No Hustle has a plethora of transitions, genre mixtures and old school connotations. Before, I knew that mixtapes were necessary to show the public what the artist is capable of. However; No Heart, No Hustle full of artistry and diversity, brings us into the raw world of Yung Crusay turning everyone that hears it into permanent fans. I personally don't know how anyone could hear this album and not LOVE IT! To download No Heart, No Hustle visit http://www.datpiff.com/Yung-Crusay-noheartnohustle-mixtape.297211.html  


Now is virtually rude to discuss such greatness, without mentioning the creator, Yung Crusay. Yung Crusay is the CEO/Founder of Dirty Biz Entertainment and DGMG. She was born and in Huntsville, TX where she was raised by her mother. With background in Port Arthur, the rapper, writer, producer, and actress started creating her resume at the age of 5 when she begin acting. By 7th grade the budding star had begun to write lyrics. In 10th grade is when she added to her list of accomplishments, the title: rapper. Wanting to be the jack of many trades, Yung Crusay begin producing in 11th grade. While most teens are having identity crisis during these years, Yung Crusay took control and begin writing her own destiny. In 2002, Yung Crusay moved to Houston and decided to pursue her music career shortly after. From there she started TL Productions in 2004, Dirty Bizness Ent. in 2007. In May 2009 Yung Crusay released her 1st mixtape entitled, The Love Chronicles Pt. 1. DGMG  which is a part of Dirty Bizness Entertainment, is a recent creation (2010) in which she is watching its growth. She appeared in her first film: Desire, Hostility, Delusion, released in June 2011. You can follow this Dirty Biz Boss on Twitter @Yung_Crusay. To read more about Yung Crusay, the DGMG models and Dirty Bizness Ent. Visit http://sweettoothmedia.blogspot.com/2011/03/dirty-girls-modeling-group-aspirations.html 

"Buzzworthy Cravings, Creatively Satisfied!"

Jackson, MS- 2012 S.T.A.N.D. (previously, Stop the Violence) Rally and Concert Press Release

For Immediate Release 

Together We Stand, Divided We Fall

Jackson, MS – The S.H.E. Group proudly presents the 2012 S.T.A.N.D. (formerly Stop the Violence) Rally and Concert hosted by Baby Earl Productions of Brookhaven, Mississippi on Saturday, January 14, 2012. This event will be held at Limitless Venue (4731 North State Street, Jackson, Mississippi) with doors opening promptly at 12:30 p.m.



The objective of this event is to provide a platform and open dialogue between motivational speakers, attending politicians, and residents from across the state about violence, generation repeat and solutions to become all that one desires to become in life. In 2012, we as young adults are pledging to “Take a Stand” in eliminating the negative stereotypes portrayed and used to cancel opportunities for our generation and the next. This event will also feature spoken word and hip-hop performances by local teens and adults using their voice to be a part of change.



The cost of this event is free to the community; however, donations will be accepted to help needy families that have became victim to a crime in our community. Guest speakers (at this time) are Cassio Batteast, Albert Coleman, Shanta Galloway, and various politicians in our community. Guest performances (at this time) are by Ashyah J, Lee SC, Brittany Patton, Krystal Meth, Mississippi Rell, Whodini-Blak & Cash on Demand, Deuce Horne, Tighta Den Eva; Get ‘Em Gutta, Trouble Soulz, MiMi, Coming from Nothin, J.R. & The Allnighters, A.I. Prez, Onli Platinum Music, and many more. This event is being strongly backed by Locker Room Sports Bar, Baby Earl Production, Sapphire, Inc.; Frequent Fly Entertainment, Kategory 5 Production, Vision of Hope Church, and Premier Tax Services.



For more information about the S.T.A.N.D. Concert and Rally or to participate, please contact Pam Greer at pamgreer@rocketmail.com or via facebook/misspamgreer

"Buzzworthy Cravings, Creatively Satisfied!"

The 2nd Installment of the T.R.U.T.H. Project: Reflection on the Art of Recognition and Healing

Imagine your T.R.U.T.H. is melodiously hypnotizing and leading you to a place consumed by smooth Jazz and R&B Tunes, playing musical talent greats such as Angie Stone. The soothing sounds are excellent music to your ears...So much so, that you realize that you are unconsciously awake. Until...your eyes absorb one of the most magnificent creations in the making: Body Art created by Vonetta of ABC Body Art jolting you into consciousness. Making you aware that she is eloquently painting male and female models with varying hues of browns and blues decorating the human canvases with words and phrases that speaks her T.R.U.T.Hs. This causes you to examine others getting a full frontal view of the excellence that you are experiencing. You find that the audience is just as diverse as the artistry that has begun to stimulate all of your senses. After pinching yourself, because this type of glorious exhibition is only found in vivid dreams, you accept that you are in fact NOT asleep rather you are at the 2nd Installment of the T.R.U.T.H Project. This is the ephipany that I lived.

ABC Body Art by Vonetta

Miss Pinky

The T.R.U.T.H. Project targets the GLBT community and Allies, focusing on creating self awareness and healing through the use of performance arts and social engagement. Addressing issues important to our community and society, this project highlights national and local artist creating original works that will be presented to the community in an Out Of the Box healing experience. Healing through the ARTS. T.R.U.T.H stands for Telling Real Unapologetic Truths thru Healing. The T.R.U.T.H Project is a themed structured event, that highlights Feature/Celebrity Presentations, Community Artists, and the Open Mic; for those making the decision to heal. The artists create original work centering around the theme. The 2nd Installment's theme centered around creating Stigma and Bullying awareness. This installment's features were the wonderful Entertainer Buttaflysoul who blessed us with his many talents including poetry and song; as well as the talented acoutstic guitarist, Ken J. Martin. Community artists included Urban Souls Dance Company II, HBO Short Film Creator, Darius Clark Monroe and Dr. Drake Williams who educated the audience on bullying behavior and statistics. This aspect of the T.R.U.T.H Project very enlightening because there were aspects of bullying presented that many were unaware of, such as 282,000 students were reported to be attacked throughout the nation each month. Fourth to eighth graders account for 90% physical abuse at home which leads to violence at school. The Open Mic was set on fire by poets, such as Augie, Ms. Pinky, RC, and Light. The Open Mic also included movements by Donnie, a member of Urban Souls Dance Company. Each artist contributed beautifully to bring and increase awareness to bullying and stigma.  Entertainer Buttafly Soul RC Urban Souls Dance Company II Ken J. Martin The energy was so high and powerful in that room, I was moved to tears. Hearing community members share their unapologetic truths moving themselves and me to healing. The best part of the night before witnessing all of the healing gifts offered was being able to sit down and chat with Entertainer Buttaflysoul. He shared his absolute truths with me and helped me to come to terms with some of my own. If you have never experienced excellence and healing of this magnitude, then you are doing yourself a great disservice. The next T.R.U.T.H Project will be held on December 4, 2011 at the Arena Theater, featuring 6x Grammy Award Nominee, Marsha Ambrosius. The 3rd Installment's them is Stigma and HIV/AIDS Awareness. For more information visit http://www.sweettoothmedia.com/

Check Out Intimate Conversation with Entertainer Buttafly Soul

"Buzzworthy Cravings, Creatively Satisfied!"

World AIDS Day 2011

World AIDS Day is held on 1 December each year and is an opportunity for people worldwide to unite in the fight against HIV, show their support for people living with HIV and to commemorate people who have died. World AIDS Day was the first ever global health day and the first one was held in 1988. Furthermore it is an opportunity for you to learn the facts about HIV and put your knowledge into action. If you understand how HIV is transmitted, how it can be prevented, and the reality of living with HIV today - you can use this knowledge to take care of your own health and the health of others, and ensure you treat everyone living with HIV fairly, and with respect and understanding. You can also show your support for people living with HIV on World AIDS Day by wearing a red ribbon, the international symbol of HIV awareness. World AIDS Day is also a great opportunity to raise money for NAT and show your support for people living with HIV.

Each year there is a theme attached to World AIDS Day. In 1988, the theme was Communication. Communication is a necessary medicine in maintaining health and being the theme during the first year of inception speaks volumes about the importance of being able to communicate freely. In 2002-2003 the theme was Stigma and Discrimination. These are of importance because stigma and discrimination act as secondary illness that greatly affect persons living with HIV/AIDS. The theme for 2011 through 2015 is "Getting to Zero". Zero New HIV Infections. Zero Discrimination and Zero AIDS Related Deaths. “Zero New HIV Infections” and “Zero Discrimination” are likely to spark high impact events from small scale community vigils to nation wide events using the power of  voice and light to get life and death issues the attention they deserve. Many of the organizations that come together to put events to create awareness of the AIDS/HIV epidemic come with their own sub-theme. A notable event in Houston is the upcoming T.R.U.T.H Project. The T.R.U.T.H. Project targets the GLBT community and Allies, focusing on creating self awareness and healing through the use of performance arts and social engagement. Addressing issues important to our community and society, this project highlights national and local artist creating original works that will be presented to the community in an Out Of the Box healing experience. Healing through the ARTS. This installment's theme is addressing the issues of HIV Awareness and Stigma.

AIDS has killed more than 25 million people between 1981 and 2007, and an estimated 33.2 million people worldwide live with HIV as of 2007, making it one of the most destructive epidemics in recorded history. Despite recent, improved access to antiretroviral treatment and care in many regions of the world, the AIDS epidemic claimed an estimated 2 million lives in 2007, of which about 270,000 were children.

The data regarding Americans living with HIV are alarming. ‎1.2 million Americans who have HIV - the infection that causes AIDS - 20 percent don't know they're infected. That's 240,000 people. People can have the infection for years without developing symptoms. Another reason for the low success rate, only about 40 percent of people with HIV are getting HIV-fighting medications regularly. Worse, only 28 percent have gotten the virus to low levels in their blood. That translates to roughly 850,000 Americans who don't have the virus controlled, Frieden said. Success rates were lowest in blacks and women, he said. ‎"The fact that nearly three quarters of Americans living with HIV still have the virus circulating in their bodies, damaging their brains and immune systems and putting their sexual partner at risk is something we think we can do a lot about," Frieden told Reuters. The report - published Tuesday on the CDC's website - was based on surveys and surveillance reports from 2010 and a study that focused on medical care for people with HIV.

There are several reasons why more people aren't faring better, the CDC said. Some were still early in their treatment before medication took effect. Some dropped routine care because of money or other reasons. For a small percentage of cases, the treatment may not have worked. The key to Getting To Zero, is getting tested! KNOW your STATUS, Get Tested!!!!

Sources:
http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-504763_162-57333212-10391704/cdc-240000-americans-have-hiv-and-dont-know-it/
http://www.worldaidsday.org/
http://www.aidshelp.org/
http://www.unaids.org/en/Dataanalysis/Epidemiology/
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/World_AIDS_Day
http://www.worldaidscampaign.org/world-aids-day/world-aids-day-2011/
 
 
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Singledom and the Holidays: What do the Singles DO?

Its Officially the Holiday season, and families are preparing feasts, parents are starting to Christmas shop, newlyweds are beginning their own traditions and you.... you are single, and trying to figure out, how this holiday season can be a little better than last year. After all, you were the family's target, because you are single, and besides your family are celebrating the holidays alone. They call you "lonely". All the while you are thinking, "What the hell is their problem...you arent lonely, you are single and perfectly ok with that notion, why in the hell arent they?" This holiday season, Sweet Tooth Media is pleased to bring you a little humor and insight on exactly what to do to deal with these inquisitive folks we call family.

According to Lemon Drop.com, There are roughly 55 million single women in the U.S. Many of them are with-it, smokin' and smart -- and many with their finger on the pulse of life. But when that certain finger is ringless, even the most self-assured single can dread the shame and rebuke of facing disappointed family during the holidays -- especially when the really hostile ones who found the unlocked liquor cabinet constantly undermine you, demanding to know why you can't scare up a date. It can be downright soul-crushing when you come home empty-handed --– literally! -- no ring on that finger, watching family members' faces crumble in disappointment that you're back another year without any engagement bling.

Traditionally, holiday time is the most ego-eroding of seasons for singles – but it doesn't have to be. If you're armed with a few simple coping strategies when heading home (to the hostile) for the holidays, major blowups can be avoided. (Like when loving parents can suddenly morph into unrelenting interrogators.) These people are presumably the people who gave you life -- now they're the ones essentially draining you of it. Some holiday survival tips for singles:


Get Over It Already

If you have recently broke up with your mate (3 or more months prior to the holiday season) I am certain that you will feel the sting of being alone and wonder what the other person is doing, who they are with and what are they buying their date, mother, or dog for Christmas. You may even wonder if they will call you and say "hi". The best thing to do is get over it. If you were close to the family, send a card with a picture of yourself attached. Certainly, you would want to get all dolled up and make them understand exactly what they are missing. If you want to be really festive, buy your ex a small Christmas gift, symbolizing the breakup, progress since the break up or the future you plan to enjoy without them. Dont dwell on the fact that you two arent together, spend the extra money on yourself. Travel Abroad.  

Take the Heat Off Yourself


When Aunt Mary overzealously tries to foist her single drummer from church onto you, try to extricate yourself from this sticky situation by taking the heat off yourself. Suggest that Mary set him up with her own daughter, who's recently divorced. Tell them firmly to table their crusade to get you hitched until a more appropriate time. Don't let overzealous -- and, yes, well-meaning -- family members crush your otherwise cheery holiday mood or project that pressure onto you to find someone.... Basically, tell Aunt Mary to date her drummer from church herself, and that you have no problem getting a date, you just refuse to be miserable like so many other of your family relatives.

Ditch the Family

If you really just arent in the mood for your family's bullshit and empty opinions...Ditch em'. Instead of eating grandma's dressing straight from her stove have her make you a pan of your own and tell her that you are choosing to celebrate with friends. She will understand that the family can be a pain at times and will quickly oblige. If you dont have many friends to celebrate with, split your time and volunteer. There are several organizations and establishments that would love to have you there, NO QUESTIONS ASKED. Have a plan to end the night perfectly doing exactly what you want to do. The next day as you reflect, you will find that you have done something worthwhile, without all the drama that your family brings to holiday festivities.


Confront Your Family, Once and for All

Confront the familial offenders head on and explain that their projected pressure onto you is compounding your insecurities and crushing your self-esteem -- all the while putting undue stress on your relationship with them. Reinforce that although you appreciate their concern, you don't need them to belabor the fact that you're single -- and that their outbursts are backfiring and undercutting you with each insensitive jab.....No NOT really, dont do that. Tell them that if they had a life worth living, they wouldnt be so concerned with yours and that once they live life as free and peaceful as you then and only then will you take advantage of their undying advice.

If none of these things work, over indulge in egg nog and other alcoholic beverages. I hear Kahul;a is great this time of year.
Information obtained from http://www.lemondrop.com/2010/12/13/how-to-survive-the-holidays-single/

"Buzzworthy Cravings, Creatively Satisfied!"