Casey Anthony: How Much Is Too Much?

By: Ebony L. McCline

If you are not the least bit familiar with the name Casey Anthony, then you must have been living under a rock for the past few months. A few weeks ago, news swirled around the trial that would put this mother behind bars for what some may deem too short of a time period for allegedly being responsible for her daughters death, which occurred three years ago. However, she was found not guilty of manslaughter and murder of the child. 

If the details surrounding the entire incident aren’t enough to stir up a few debates in your circle, the fact that Casey could possibly receive millions of dollars as a result of the attention that this unfortunate situation has received should at least ruffle some features. It’s no secret that once something gets a lot of attention from the public and more importantly the media, it starts to get larger than life. This particular situation, as well as others similar to it, also seems to have another effect: those persons who happen to be in the public eye as a result of something like a high-profile trial eventually get the chance to profit form it, too. Sometimes there are movie/book deals, they are thrust into the public eye, which can be appealing for some, and oftentimes, they have the option to charge an insane amount of money for an interview. 

With the Casey Anthony case, this notion seems to remain true as speculation continues to swirl. While the trial is still fresh in everyone’s mind, it’s a no-brainer that all types of media outlets are trying to be the first to strike it rich with an interview from her. It’s pretty much safe to say that she could practically charge whatever she pleases to the highest bidder. So, what does this say about the type of society that we live in today? 

It has always been clear that we are a culture that is consumed by all things that have to do with entertainment, whether it’s negative or positive. To know that there’s a possibility that someone could profit financially over something so tragic is truly disturbing, but it’s a cruel world and we’re just living in it, right? 

“Sugar Babies:" Is It Worth It?

By: Isis Nicole

I was first introduced to the lifestyle of “sugar babies”  after an episode of “The Tyra Show,” but I was recently reminded of this awkward reality on MTV’s “True Life: I’m A Sugar Baby.” Now, the term is technically defined as a woman who doesn’t mind exchanging herself or her time for gifts or money. While women usually fall into this category, it’s still possible to find men who are willing to do the same thing. 

As I watched, “True Life,” it didn’t disturb me when two young adults (one male and one female) admitted that their whole purpose is to find someone who could pamper and take care of them. Obviously, that’s what being a “sugar baby” is all about, right? What did surprise me were their reactions, when their “sugar daddies” wanted something in return; to me, that’s unspoken and sort of expected. Let’s face it, nothing in this world is free no matter how it may seem. I’m not sure if maturity is a factor, but these individuals just seem to appear pretty naive. No one is going to be okay with spending their hard earned cash, taking vacations, and paying bills but not getting anything of significance out of the deal.  

The whole “sugar baby” exchange just seems like a risky business that broke, young adults turn to because they may feel like there aren’t any other options. I’m almost sure that it’s not worth it. It’ll be more rewarding to just get a job and be responsible for yourself. 

College Woes

By: Ebony L. McCline

From the time you are able to truly understand what school is and it’s importance, it’s usually drilled into your brain that higher education is not just an option, it’s a must. Not too long ago, a high school diploma was sufficient, and most people didn’t think twice if you mentioned the fact that you didn’t have a degree. However, times have definitely changed. At the very least, a college degree of some sort is almost always standard, and a Master’s/Ph.D in a particular field of study is preferred. 

So, what happens when you don’t have the funds that some others may possess to further your education beyond the basics? Let’s face it, not everyone could afford to flush out tens of thousands of dollars each year, even if it’s more like an investment. While we’re constantly told that without a college degree, we probably won’t get that job of our dreams with the perfect salary to match, most of our parents neglect to start saving for our future, which means that when that time comes, that's one additional thing added to the list of concerns. Some people may recommend scholarships or grants, which all “sound” good on the surface, but are not easy to maintain or get for that matter. For most college bound students, loans are the only option and depending on various factors and the type of school loan you’re applying for, this particular process isn’t as easy as it sounds either. 

With all that said, there are still those unique individuals (outside of entertainers) who are still very much successful without a college degree. So, if college is not an option just yet due to finances, carefully evaluate other options to see which avenues are best for you and your particular situation.  

Grandparents: 2k11 Edition

By: Isis Nicole


Ever wonder about the old folks of the past? You know, those who were born in the good old days; the wise generation that are pre-technology, social networks, and all that other good stuff. There was once upon a time when “Granny” use to be that little old lady in a floral nightgown, bright lipstick, and her hair adorn with flakes of grey. She also had an insane amount of photo albums, and not to mention, she had stories to tell that went back for what seems like ages. Grandpa was never too far away. You know, that sweet, wrinkled old man?

Well, not anymore. I guess I should say at least not my grandparents. Out with the rocking chairs and in with the wonders of youth, because grandparents all over are more vibrant than ever. Now they are re-defining what it means to be a grandparent by throwing parties, vacationing on their terms, and even taking up the risk of online dating. Yes, DATING!!! 

Honestly, I’m proud of this transition. It puts a smile on my face when I see a 70+ year old grocery shopping or exercising at the crack of dawn. One of my grandmother’s is fairly young, so for the sake of argument let’s not include her.  However, my great grandmother is a different story. I went to her house a few weeks ago, and she left such an impression on me. She’s healthy and active, and she even tried to offer me a “drink!” 

It’s definitely motivating to see that life is still fun for those who aren’t physically young. Mark Twain said it best, “Age is an issue of mind over matter. If you don't mind, it doesn't matter.”

#YouKnowTwitterIsTakingOverYourLifeWhen

By: Songine’ Clarke

Twitter is a popular social media site where you pretty much tell your followers what’s going on in your life at the moment. Picture one huge text message that never ends, and that's Twitter in a nutshell. Some tweeters (people on Twitter) tell every detail of their lives; what they are doing, who’s with them, what they eat, and sometimes a little too much information. 

You have some people who refrain from tweeting every single second they get free, but for every one of them, there’s about 10 more who tweet their hearts away all day and night. It makes you wonder if Twitter is taking over your life. I must admit, there are those times when something great, weird, or funny happens, and you don’t have anyone to share it with; so, why not tweet it, right?  With that said, there is a limit to what a person should tweet. I’m sure many people would beg to differ on that point. However, some things in your life should remain private. 

If you want to tell your followers about a sale at Zara, then go ahead and tweet it. If you want to tell your followers about something you saw at Zara in a certain section, the size, and the color of an item, that may be a little too much information. The moral of the story is to be a wise tweeter ladies and gentlemen.

Keep Your Friends Close & Your Enemies Closer

By: Isis Nicole

There comes a time in everyone’s life when they’ll face jealously and backstabbing. As of late, this has been commonly referred to as “haters” by today’s generation. For females, this seems to be especially true. While people who blatantly hate you sometimes make it known, there are those who tend to be fake. What’s even more interesting is that the ones who are the closest to you tend to hate the most; these people are sometimes referred to as “frenemies.” 

“Frenemies” can be the most difficult people you ever encounter simply because their disdain for you can be very understated. The most unappealing aspect of having a friend who also happens to be an enemy is that you may not realize that in the end, they don’t have your best interest at heart. These relationships are pointless, but many times, they are hard to detect.

How to spot one? Well for one, “frenemies” do not typically pop up like an unnoticed stain on your new outfit, although the situation may indeed feel that way. They are much more clever. Unfortunately, they blossom over time; therefore, there's a great possibility that they are very aware of your secrets and weaknesses. How to deal? You can call them out, facing the issue head on. An alternative is for you to get even, but once you’re past a certain age, that can be thought of as immature. Plus, you would be wasting your precious time and energy. Ultimately, it’s up to you. 

"Bey" is Back with "4"

By: Ebony L. McCline

While some artists drop albums at least once a year, there are a select few who take their time between projects. These unique individuals recognize that it takes time to create an album that shows growth and their development as artists. Also, they make sure their fans will appreciate the blood, sweat, and tears that they put into their work. Not to take anything away from those artists who release albums more frequently, but I’ve come to appreciate those who realize that all good things take time. 

Luckily, for #TeamBey, Beyonce’ took enough time (about three years) off before releasing her latest album, “4.” While “Dangerously In Love” and “B’Day” could both be arguably considered her greatest pieces of work, “4” has the potential to hold a torch to the two. In two words, “4” is “classic Bey.” For those who admire her work, her fourth solo album delivers those same upbeat, dance tracks mixed with some sensational ballads that have the power to bring tears to your eyes. 

With all the significance behind this album, it was clear from the start that she would put her all into this project. Before the album was released last Tuesday, singles like “1+1,” “Best Thing I Never Had,” and “Run the World (Girls)" gave way to what her fans could expect from her this time around. However, it’s ballads like “I Miss You,” “I Was Here,” and “Rather Die Young” that steal the show. Rest assure, “4” works as a form of relationship therapy, which is characteristic of Beyonce’. It’s something for those couples who are just starting out, those who are doing great, and those who are at a crossroads. 

Selling a little over 300,000 copies in its first week, “4” will no doubt be another platinum album that Beyonce’ can add to her collection. What’s interesting is that it’s already TRIPLE platinum in Brazil, and it’s #1 in the UK. It’s safe to say that international fans are showing her way more love.

Marriage: Too Young?

By: Songine’ Clarke

At the age of 21, I currently know 11 people who are either married or engaged to be married. All of these people are in my age bracket. Some people would say they’re too young; therefore, they’re not ready for such a commitment. Some people could even argue that they are too young to have a clear understanding of love. For every person that may question these relationships, there is possibly one person that would argue that love has no limits, including age.

I'm one of those people who's is split down the middle. I say love truly has no age limits once you reach a certain level of maturity, but there’s the other side of love where you have to ask yourself are you ready for the commitment? Are you ready to truly take someone "for better or worse" and become one with the person you choose to spend the rest of your life with?

It's said that the divorce rate in America is about 50 percent. So, if you do the math, for every two couples who are married, at least one of them will possibly get a divorce. This point alone may deter people from pursuing marriage despite the age. Furthermore, statistics show that the highest percentage of divorces is among women between 20-24 years old.

I believe no one is truly 100 percent ready for marriage. It’s a learning process that you and your significant other have to go through together. There will be hard times and there will be trials. Unfortunately, there are times when some couples can’t make it through those trials. Then, there are other times when there is joy, happiness, and excitement once you realize why you are with that one person. So, I guess the question is not is there a such thing as too young, but are you ready for all that comes with marriage?