Bruce Jenner - Showing Society She's True To Herself

We've all seen the tabloids and read the articles about Bruce Jenner. However, if you're like me, you've waited for him to come out to the public on his own - sans dozens of flashing cameras. In an exclusive interview with Barbra Walters on April 24th, 2015, Bruce Jenner announced to the world that, in fact, is a female. 

I'm not going to elaborate on this subject because every major news outlet has already done so. However, as an advocate for the LGBT community, I am in FULL support of Bruce Jenner and his decisions. As a society, we should be able to embrace each other for who they are and who they aspire to be. No amount of fame can buy happiness, which I can see is something that Bruce understands. By being happy with himself, he not only brings pride and relief to his family (a.k.a. the Kardashian - Jenner clan), but most importantly to HIMSELF!

Now, if you're only joining the transgender-bandwagon because he's part of the, what I like to call, Firs Family of Reality Television, then you can click the 'X.' Being a member of the LGBT community is not something to just be a part of, but most importantly, embrace. By being in full support of Bruce, then I would expect nothing less than fully supporting those transitioning in your own community. Whether you're a shoulder to cry on or an ally, you can make a difference - just like the Kardashian-Jenner family is doing for their father. 

For more information on how to become an LGBT ally, contact your local LGBT/LGBTQ center. 

The Power of Class at the Grammy's 2015

Last night, February 8th, 2015, the world was graced with the various fashions of some of today's hottest artists. From Queen Bey to Charlie xCx, the fashions of pop culture took a leap into our hearts and here's what Lola's intern David had to say about the affair!

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Getting In Touch With Yourself - TSwift Style

Taylor Swift is trying a new relationship with someone very familiar… herself. The country singer is taking a break from dating A- list hunks to focusing more on cranking out some catchy hits and learning more about herself.

Swift’s been keeping herself busy from leaking bits and pieces of her album to  gracing the cover of People magazine’s latest October issue. In honor of the 40th anniversary of the publication, Swift rocks a blast from the past looks of the first cover issue; mimicking Mia Farrow’s seductive pearls and Gatsbyesque white get up.

Now that the 24 year old has changed up her scene by moving to a penthouse in New York City, her priorities have also changed too. In an interview with People magazine, the “Shake It Off” singer says that her differences include “Being on my own, prioritizing my girlfriends, my family and my music above everything else and trying things I never thought I’d try.”

If trying new things meant creating a whole album of pop songs, then Swift is definitely staying on track with her newly found priorities. Swift’s recent hit “Shake It Off” is now number two on the Billboard charts after Megan Trainor’s “All About That Base” this month. Her recent released song “Out of the Wood” may also take a spot on the charts. Speculations from fans and listeners support the idea that the new single is about her previous relationship  with singer Harry Styles. The song is a collaboration with Jack Antonoff, guitarist for the band Fun. Swift describes how the song talks about uncertain relationships. “It’s a relationship where you never feel like you’re standing on solid ground” she says to Billboard. “That kind of feeling brings on excitement but also extreme anxiety and kind of a frantic feeling of wondering.”

No word has come from the One Direction member and according to Hollywood Life, there won’t be word any time soon. “Harry is not bothered by yet another song about him,” says a source to the publication. “Taylor is beyond yesterday’s news and he really doesn’t want to have anything to do with her, he has moved on and doesn’t think about her at all.”

In the meantime, T-Swift is still teasing her fans with snippets of her soon to be released album while also sharing her latest adventures with her cat Olivia Benson. The “You Belong to Me” singer is continuously loving the single life and preaching the benefits to her girlfriends including Selena Gomez. Gomez told Ellen DeGeneres on her show how Swift tries to convince Gomez to move to New York. “She’s been begging me every time we get on the phone to move to New York, ‘cause it’s been a really good thing for her.”  Gomez also joked said “She wants to kidnap me.”

T-Swift’s Pop project 1989 will be released near the end of the month on October 27th.

What Did We Learn

As much as we want to believe that boys (or men, depending on your age) are the world, they're not. For years, Swift has made millions off of her heartbreaks and past interests, but now it's time for a change. Now at the age of 24, she's realized there's more to life, and you should too. Forget about the every day need to have a man by your side and get to know who you are. Life after college changes you, trust us on this, but that doesn't mean you can't cuddle up with yourself and watch a hockey game or indulge in 'Say Yes To The Dress,' (#nojudgment). As an dult, you need to know who you are and what you want, and how you want it. Take TSwift's advice - know yourself.

Real Housewife Teresa Giudice and Husband Sentenced Jail in 2015

Don’t do the crime if you can’t do the time! Reality TV celebrity Teresa Giudice and husband Joe Giudice were sentenced to serve their time for recent crimes starting  in early January 2015. The Giudice’s sentence was revealed to them and the public late on October 2nd. According to ABC7.com, the NJ couple pleaded guilty to 41 counts: bankruptcy fraud, conspiracy to commit mail fraud and wire fraud. Teresa will serve 15 months in prison while Joe will serve 41 months.

Although the couple were both sentenced to time in jail, the Giudice’s will not serve at the same time. The judge wanted Joe to serve after Teresa so their four daughters would have a legal parent taking care of them throughout the year. Teresa may have had a slight hand in these crimes, but she is still responsible since her husband used her her name to request false loans.

In an interview with Andy Cohen on his show “Watch What happens Live,”  Teresa mentioned how she didn’t know jail time was a possibility for her. After agreeing with her lawyer about making a plea deal, Teresa admitted that “I didn’t fully understand it.” The reality star continues to say, “ I thought my lawyer was going to fight for me.”

Even after the New Jersey housewife’s sentenced was revealed, word quickly got out on how sorry she was on twitter. Teresa expressed her apologies by admitting “I am more sorry than anyone will ever know.” These crimes were committed long before Teresa took on her role as the Italian New Jersey housewife on Bravo’s “Real Housewives” in 2009. Throughout the six year run of the series, the show featured the Giudice daughters: Gia (13), Gabrielle (9), Milania (8) and Audriana (5). Teresa is also known for her successful cookbooks published during her time on “The Real Housewife” series. Her cookbooks are entitled Skinny Italian, Fabulicious, and Fast and Fit; which have all made it to the New York Times Bestsellers list.

Teresa has taken one big lesson away with her, stating: “I do need to read things before I sign them,” she said.

P.C.

What Did We Learn?

Being a celebrity doesn't always mean you are handed or that you'll get away with everything. What young professionals and the common person can learn from this scenario is that you have to communicate. What will happen when Teresa and her husband go away? What will happen to their children? These are things that aren't thought about, not in the slightest. It's important to have a role model, and this couple isn't the one to look to. In short, pay your taxes, read the fine print, and have a plan. If you have to, it's okay to seek advice from a professional - think of it as writing your resume. HR reps do research!

Amanda Bynes Held in Psychiatric Hold

Just when things seemed to be getting better for Amanda Bynes, a series of strange behaviors  have set her back for the worse. According to The Daily News, the “All That” star has recently been placed on a psychiatric hold at Las Encinas Hospital for two weeks. This recent decision was announced in light of the actress’s bizarre behavior in both LA and NYC.

Rick and Lynn Bynes flew their daughter from NYC to Las Encinas Hospital in LA on October 13th for what was originally a 72 hour psychiatric hold. According to the newspaper , doctors are hoping to extend her stay at the hospital for up to a year where “they’d be allowed to keep her confined and, if necessary, restrained and forced to take her medication.”  

The string of events first unfolded early this month in LA when Bynes was charged with a DUI. Police stopped her when she halted her car in the middle of an intersection on Van Nuys Boulevard early in the morning. The Hairspray actress failed a number of sobriety tests due to being under the influence of a controlled substance, according to E! News. Luckily for Bynes, she received a same day release from jail after being held on a $15,000 bail.

Things continued to escalate for the actress in NYC on October 8th when Bynes was reportedly dancing around in her bra while changing in the Upper East Side boutique Pookie and Sebastian. The Daily News  reported that the boutique’s cameras caught Bynes “twerking” on a security guard while mumbling to herself about plastic surgery. Of course the performance was awkward and came as a shock to many customers.

Later that day the 28 year old visited Barney’s and experienced even more trouble. Whether this was a misunderstanding or not, Bynes was accused of leaving the department store with a hat she did not pay for. According to the NYPD, the department store let the actress go after she agreed to sign a no trespassing affidavit banning her from the store.

Earlier this month, fans of the “Easy A” actress noticed Bynes’ return to social media matching her new positive attitude. Tweets like “I’m transferring to NYU or Columbia from FIDM to study psychology…” and posts of her and her family seem  to support that Bynes was back to her old self. Within days following these posts her twitter wall began to sound as if someone had a fun spree hacking her account. Bynes posted accusations about her father physically and mentally abusing her, amongst other confusing tweets.

Difficult as it may be for the Bynes family to witness their daughter’s diminished progress,  other celebrities and fans of the actress are still showing their support. Model Chrissy Tegan sent a special message out to her fellow actress stating “I obviously don’t know her at all but I want to make her happy and healthy for some reason.”

What Did We Learn

It's okay to ask for help when you're feeling down and that the world is after you. Ladies and gentlemen, please note that if you're having issues, call a trusted adult. Granted celebrities have their own way of handling situations, that doesn't mean you can or should do the same. When you see or notice a shift in behavior, make a note of it. As someone who has had friends and family suffer from mental illness, it's not okay to let it ride out. Let this be a lesson, one that cannot be broken down to feed a child. As we mature, we have to be accountable for our action, including celebrities. If you're in school, visit your campus counseling center or trusted adult to discuss a plan to better yourself, academics, and your longevity.

YEEZUS - Why Kanye Needs a New PR Team

With all of the recent happenings in the life of the West family, it doesn't shock (or shouldn't at least), the ignorance of Kanye West. After all, this 'legendary' family isn't so legendary after all; lets just ask the Australians.
       Last week, Kanye performed in Australia and, like many artists, asked for his fans to engage. However, Kanye or 'YEEZUS,' asked for a little more engagement and stopped performing to get it. Just to paraphrase,  Kanye made it 'mandatory' to stand up, unless they were in a wheelchair or "got a special parking pass and s***.' But to make matters worse, fans were trying to communicate with him that a few fans were in a wheelchair or had a prosthetic. So why on Earth did he sent Pascal (member of his entourage) to check on the issue? This is just pure ignorance and has made waves across social channels. Unlike the incident with Taylor Swift, he continued without an apology....
        Bringing it back, his wife Kimberly Kardashian-West claims he has nothing to apologize for. Considering they are entitled to their own opinion, this is perfectly fine, but their ethics and morals are definitely not where they should be. Everyone's entitled to their own!

 

Go Hard for Horus

Hookah. It has kind of been the new fad in entertainment over the past few years here in the United States (at least as far as I know). Relaying back to India and the Middle East, this practice has taken over, especially in New York city. So, where am I going with this?

     Horus Kabab House!!


     Alright, enough of being over dramatic..I do have to say, my experience at Horus was absolutely AMAZING! Since it was my roommate's birthday, I called the lounge, made a reservation (which apparently they don't usually do for less than four people), but nonetheless, we had an amazing time. From the menu to the entertainment (live on the weekends, usually belly dancers), and the service to the flavors of hookah, yes, I can say I will go there again.


    Horus offers over 40 different varieties of hookah, including flavored, fresh fruit, what is called "top shelf" hookah (specialty hookahs), with prices that range from $15 to $40 depending on what you choose. The price is well worth the experience. The staff was consistently checking on tables, refilling the coals for the hookahs, absolutely amazing. 




 If you happen to get a little hungry, Horus offers a variety of beverages and food items that are made fresh when ordered. I'm not one for lamb, but if it wasn't because I knew what my roommate ordered, I would have never known.



 

    What's next?

        If you are interest in giving Horus Kabab House a chance, you can visit their Facebook page, or their website (listed below) for more information. 



Horus Kabab House

Website: www.horuscafe.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com

Telephone: (212) 777-9199

Hookah Luxury to Go

Have you ever wanted to go to a hookah or shisha lounge, but didn't have the time or money? Luxury Lites, a company specializing in electronic and disposable hookahs and cigarettes, is making a difference in lives everywhere. Luxury Lites offers an array of  flavors from strawberry daiquiri to mint chocolate, apple cider, and more. Each Hookah is designed for up to 700 puffs (according to my distributor). All I know if that this is probably the best $12 I've spent in a very long time; that's a promise!

      Can Luxury Lites products be ordered online? Yes! Luxury Lites ships across the country and internationally.  Shipping varies by location, however they company does provide a tracking number, and if ordered before 2pm, shipments go out that same day. This is an offer that can't be passed up, but of course, you must be at least 18 years old to order (for all of you underage smokers, I do apologize, but it's the law). If you find this to be a product you can benefit from or enjoy try it; Luxury Lites is the way to go!

My favorite is Strawberry Daiquiri (far right)

Facebook: Luxury Lites
  Luxury Lites Website

Are All Musicians Sellouts?

Growing up in a household where music was a priority, I have always had my opinions of certain artists and bands. On a recent Sunday morning, my dad and I were watching various music television channels and a particular band began to stream and this is the comment I heard from him.

"Maroon 5 is a sell out."

To be completely honest, I can't say that they are or aren't. Typically when new artists rise to fame, they are showcasing their style of music, but as time goes on, that changes. I have to say, I miss the original Maroon 5, as I'm not too much of a fan of this whole 'pop' theme. What I've noticed with some of my favorite musicians is that they grow as they rise to fame and their taste in music grows with that. But, my issue is that some artists build a fan base through one genre, move to another and loose the thousands of fans they had prior to gain millions who probably have never heard of them before. Why does this matter?

Nelly. I absolutely love Nelly and admire his collaborations with Tim McGraw and Georgia Florida Line. He's one of those artists that used his talent to broaden his audience through collabs.Props to you Nelly!

Now, one artist who's had some "issues" with record companies in the United States is one of my favorites. Fefe Dobson is a songwriter and recording artist from Toronto, Canada and for some reason, is unheard of in the States. A few years ago, there were some rumors that her label wanted her to sing one type of music, which she didn't want to have part in. I personally love her spunky, blunt, and personable music, which has been labeled as 'pop-rock.' I can deal with that, but I'm curious as to know the entire story of why her music is ineligible for purchase on this side of the Falls.

Let's bring it back. A sellout can be defined as someone who betrays a cause for personal advancement (Urban Dictionary).  What I find interesting is that so many people are labeled as such, but all they did was grow as an artist or individual to only benefit themselves, which is totally fine. But let's just remember, not everyone is a sellout, only those who are in it for the money. But that's just my opinion.

Selena Gomez Battles It Out With Lupus: Let Her Be

   Privacy. Something that doesn't exactly exist in  limelight. Singer and actress, Selena Gomez, has done a pretty good job with keeping her personal life on the DL until now.

   For the last week or so, rumors have been circulating with reasons as to why Gomez cancelled her tour. Not that it's really anyone's business, but she does have a few things going on in her personal life. According to the Huffington Post, Gomez has been battling Lupus since her late teens and from what they are saying, her flares are shining their way to the surface. For those of you who do not know what Lupus is, it's an autoimmune disease that can damage parts of the body such as joints and organs, including skin from as little as six weeks to a few years.

 What can you do and how does this effect the entertainment industry? Well, considering Gomez has cancelled a number of shows, there's nothing we can do. This is a personal matter and it is up to her and her family as to whether or not continuing is in her path. It may just be best to stay close with family and wait for the flares to tone down and take the loss. From a public relations perspective, I think this would be ideal and she has made the best decision for HER health. It seems that her family and friends are getting a hold of the reins, so let's pray that she recovers and stays clear of any further flares.
 

Avril Lavigne's New Album!

Okay, cool...Quick rant.

I'm BEYOND EXCITED!!!!!!!!!

Avril Lavigne is one of my all-time favorite artists and I am just so happy that she released this album. It has been forever since she's been in the studio and I cannot commend her enough for taking a break and bettering herself.

Yes..I downloaded the album and I'm in love with it (and her marriage with Chad Kroger).

Get it girl!

Photo Credit: Avril Lavigne Official Website

Peacock Bridal...A Blended Affair

We've all seen the various trends and whether or not they fit our taste, they certainly fit the taste of others. I've always seen women look at peacock themes, but I never understood why. Is it the beauty that a peacock has and the influence it brings? Or, is it the beautifully blended colors that compliment various brides and their bridal party? Whatever it may be, this image caught my eye and made me think of all the different ways one can incorporate a peacock into their wedding day. Take a look!

Photo via Pinterest

These beautiful centerpieces had be blushing! Not only is this table setting simple, it's colorful and lively. The blended floral arrangement is simple and attracts light to the table, as well as serves as an excellent conversation piece. At a wedding, Sweet 16, or any formal gathering, you want guests to feel comfortable and welcomed, not overwhelmed. This is excellent and I would see this making it's way through 2013 with confidence.

Photo via Pinterest & Plectrumbanjo

Don't hesitate to go all out on your wedding. Color combinations such as blue, yellow, green, and purple can compliment any skin tone, personality, and theme preference. The groom love it too because they're not limited to bright pastels, as jewel tones tend to be calmer and more inviting for all persons. Now, if you want something a little more, throw a little 'bling' into the mix and walk down the aisle (or runway, it's your choice) in style!

Planning a Child's Celebration

    Have you ever thought that planning a children's party was simple? Well, it's really not. There is so much that goes into making the child happy, as well as their parents. that planning such a simple two hour birthday party can make your head spin. As a planner, whether professional or a family member or friend, take a variety of subjects into consideration. Time, theme, number of guests, location, food, etc...this all can make or break a party. How do you overcome these obstacles? Questions and conversations.

Princess Tea Party. Design & decor by Pure Dymonds

During the summer it can be difficult to host a birthday party because families go on vacation, involved in other programs, or have other obligations. When planning a summer child's party, reach out to potential guests (classmates, playgroup peers, family members, friends) to get a feel for their plans so you don't stress over anything little. After this, establish a day that would fit the schedule for you and your guests. Remember, if you plan the party for 11am to 2pm, most guests will probably expect refreshments, such as pizza, hot dogs, and burgers to eat since this is a lunch time for many. Also, 4pm and later suggests refreshments because the party will more than likely run into an evening meal. Be prepared to have a general menu to provide guests with in case of any allergies. Always have fresh fruits and veggies available, as well as birthday cake (of course! This cannot be forgotten unless the birthday child has suggested something else).
 

Centerpieces designed by Pure Dymonds' Children's Event Designer

     Thinking about a theme? Typically, children tend to see new television shows or movies for inspiration, but instead of going this route, take their hobbies into consideration. If a young girl is interested in butterflies or fantasy-like stories, purchasing butterfly and fairy themed supplies, along with glitter favors and a garden-themed cake or dessert, you would have the perfect party. The same would apply for young boys. If the child has an interest in trucks, purchase basic colors (if theme isn't available) and purchase a few items that would compliment the theme without costing you too much money and would be age appropriate.

     If you're really interested in planning the perfect child's birthday celebration, I personally recommend Pure Dymonds Events, a event planning and design company located in Virginia Beach, Virginia. Lead designer and owner Tricia Epps has an amazing team that takes your vision, budget, and all other party aspirations and creates a remarkable show. Check out Pure Dymonds today and plan your child's next party in a fashion that will have all of your guests asking where your party creation came from.

   For more information about children's parties with Pure Dymonds, please check out their website by clicking here.
    

**All photos are courtesy of Pure Dymonds and can be found on their Facebook page.**
 

Melon Bowl, What?

The summer time is one of the largest event seasons, stretching from weddings to graduation, even children's birthday parties. But have you ever wondered if the kids at your event recognize common things such as plates or serving platters? Well, Uncommon Goods, a Brooklyn, New York based company has a few items that may enlighten you with products out of the ordinary and may need a second look. 

    Artist Melanie McKenney found her inspiration in nature, but we're not talking about the cookie-cutter flowers and trees. Melanie McKenny finds inspiration in the abundant textures and colors of ordinary fruits and vegetables.
    How does it look so perfect and clean cut? She makes a slip-cast mold from an actual watermelon. After, she then recreates the texture from the naturally formed rind (outer shell is what I call it). To add the quenching detail, each piece is decorated with a vibrant, food-safe glazes. Is it microwavable? No. Is it dishwasher safe? Yes. Will the kids love it? Yes.  Each bowl is handmade in Tonawanda, New York and vary in size based on the melon. 

NACA What!?

Okay, so for the past couple of days (and until Wednesday morning) I've been in Nashville, Tennessee for the National Association for Campus Activities Convention! For those of you who do not know what NACA is, most colleges and universities have an office for campus activities. This rangers from clubs, honor societies, Greek Life, and so much more. The options are endless. Where I attend school, our clubs do their absolute best to put on events for the student body. Our programming committee and and student activities office (as a team) put on events throughout the year for students, and the first 50 days and 50 nights are geared toward incoming students. Many schools find it difficult to plan events for theri demographic, and as a delegation, my university chose nine (9) students to attend the NACA conference to bring back and plan events for the coming semester and year.

     I know it sounds cheesy, but it's really a lot of fun. There are education events, and I'm not going to lie, they are a tad uninteresting, but maybe that's because some of the things they go over are common sense (at least for me), but it's a really great program. From education offerings to career preperation to club and lecture showcases, and even the campus marketplace, my first conference has been so much fun.

    Did you think I was going to let myself stay in a convention center all day? Um, that would be a no! As a team, my peers and I (along with our advisor of course) have branched out and vistited Braodway (downtown Nashville) and visited some interesting eateries. Let me tell you something; I don't think I've eaten this good in a very long time. I love BBQ and that's exactly what I've had since we've been here. Would I change my mind? Nope!

    For those of you who think I'm a little hyper at the moment, I am. Energy drinks are not in my vocabulary, however, tea and sugar are (I apologize for the craziness in advance via YouTube). Tuesday night or sometime on Wednesday when I get back to New York I will be doing a video on YouTube on my experience at NACA. Yes, I will be posting it here, but I have so much to share with you all that I cannot possibly type it and it sound at all enthusiastic. However, until then, please be careful with the consumption of Arnold Palmer and alcohol you consume (I am not condoning drinking, however if you are over the age of 21, Arnold Palmer and a little bit of vodka or tequila does the trick--at least that's what I've heard).

Have a wonderful week!!!!!

XOXO

To EuroDisney I Go!

     Yes, I said it. I'm almost 20 years old and I went to Disney...without a child...and without any other reason but to go and explore the world. Disney Land Paris is obviously nothing like what we're used to in the states. There are quite a few things that are the same, but the experience is completely different. Princess Aurora's castle was pretty in pink and perfect to walk through. Not only was I able to go through the castle, I was able to climb the stairs and see the different images in the stain-glass throughout. Was it worth the rain and cold? Yes. Was it worth the semi-lengthy lines? Yes. Would I ever go again? Most definently.

    There's not much I can say to describe my Disney experience soooooo.....Check out the photos below for a closer look at my Disney Paris experience. It was a day to remember, and a memory to cherish forever.

The Perfect Back-up Plan via VZN

        For many, a phone is something to keep them occupied during the day, but for others, it's part of the every day routine. Back in June, a friend of mine came across an article that sparked a little interest, not only for her, but she said it reminded her of me. Having Verizon Wireless is probably the best decision I have ever made (having been with them since I was 15), so I've never questioned much. Anyways, the article stated that Verizon announced the unleashing of a new phone plan called "Share Everything." And this is where my new life began.
    Being only 20, I pay my own bills, and have never had a problem doing so. When I renewed my contract, I chose a plan that worked for me, but knowing myself, I knew I would go over my minutes at some point. When speaking with a representative from Verizon, he did a quick analysis of my account (usage of data, minutes, and texting). I never would have expected that for the same price I was paying for 900 minutes, unlimited texting and two GB of data, I could get unlimited minutes, texting, and data for the same price with the new plans.
   My point? If you have Verizon, look into it. Whether you're on a plan with your parents, significant other, or alone, it's working looking into. You can add up to 10 devices that would share the data, minutes, and texting for one flat rate. Sounds great, right? It only takes a few minutes to do over the phone or in store, but if you're more of an internet type of person, you can visit the Verizon Wireless website, answer a few questions, and get results in less than two minutes. Take a peek, you won't be disappointed, especially if it's beneficial for you!

Verizon Wireless Share Everything