Choice Magazine - Fall2009

Choice Magazine Publisher: CNB Publishing Editors: Crash & Burn Writers & Reporters: Crash Override AKA Corey D. Bayless AcidBurn AKA Erica Lopez Xicano 073 AKA Rick Reggie T. The Frosted Flake Poet Junior Writers: Princess AKA Mariah Hailey Bayless Fonkey Monkey AKA Cynthia Marie Lopez Models: Reggie T. Crash Override Princess A Special Thanks to Diana Leyton for all her support & help.

Artists: Crash & Burn Poet A Special Thanks to Worm Carnevale for all his contributions & support.

Layout & Page Designs: Crash & Burn IN AFFILIATION WITH CRASH-N-BURN INC.

Fall Issue 2009

T H I S

I S

Y O U R

T O U R

G U I D E

T H R O U G H

T H E

A D V E N T U R E

T H A T

I S

Choice Magazine Featured Articles: I Rode the Bus to Pick Up My Benz

13

Slow Down Baby

16

In the Moment

50

Freedom’s Not Free

55

Those Irish Eyes

68

Love Is

76

Angel Pillows

83

pent up rage

98

…….27

Where to Find: ● Welcome………...7 ● Meet the Writers…………...9 ● Index (for a complete list of all items featured)………...105

…….46

Special Interest: ● Just My Flavor………26 ● She is Choice………………....38 ● Crash-n-Burn’s Official Hot List…...46

Special Interview:

Vyper…...62

● Gotta Give a Shoutout……….73 ● Phat Flicks……….79 ● Forever Nikki………….80 ● Chemical of the Month……...85

DISCLAIMER: All people, places, and topics included in Choice Magazine are in no way affiliated with Choice Magazine except where otherwise noted. All articles and stories in Choice Magazine are based on our writer’s research and opinions.

Junior Writers Division…...87

Whether or not you agree with this war or war in general, I believe that it is important to honor and understand that the lives that we lead so casually and free of devastation on a daily basis are due to the fact that there are those that are willing to risk their lives to keep the fight elsewhere. Regardless of their reasons for joining the military these people stay in the military and they do their job at a heavy cost to their future, family and lives. They are the reason we are able to sit here and leisurely send emails or read magazines without fear, among a myriad of other things that most countries in turmoil do not get to entertain.

Vietnam left many of our soldiers in shame, pain, penniless and in sub-human circumstances because our government would not take responsibility for its own mistakes and allowed the blame to pass to them. Our selfish ideas of how things "should be" were focused as well as the fact that so many had died, so no celebration was had for those who had fought hard and survived. Instead they were flown home in plain clothes and told to tuck their tails for fear of civilian attacks. Our own civilians! Now those soldiers are on the street corners and in homeless shelters because of our indifference and petty, argumentative nature. Some are mentally disturbed and left untreated and disrespected merely because our generation did not want to talk about such a seemingly senseless war or the still continuing trail of disaster it has left behind. Senseless or not, it happened and we can not ignore the effects. The shame belongs to all of us because it is the protection of our way of life that leads to these decisions.

Unfortunately, as we are animals, there will always be fighting over resources so it it silly to argue a concept of how things "should be" - clearly they simply "are". As long as there are resources and culture, we will fight - thus we find ourselves in a very similar war thirty years later. Our government's decisions - especially bad ones - are not our soldier's burden to bare when they come home and we should rejoice in their willingness to serve us so selflessly, whether they know they have chosen to or not. These are daughters, sons, fathers and mothers, not drones or robots, and they deserve better from not just our government, but us as beneficiaries of their labors.

Even if you do not pass this on, I pray that you take a moment to appreciate the fact that we have so many vain and petty decisions to make every day because the serious and lethal ones are being made elsewhere just to keep us from having to even be approached with those choices and consequences. I entreat you, when you see a man or woman in uniform or wearing veteran markings, shake their hand and tell them 'thank you' because they deserve our undying gratitude for their sacrifice and service.

Please make sure to pay your respect - your freedom is not free.

In memory of Robert Dean Williamson and all other American veterans and soldiers. Thank you for your service.

I Rode the Bus to Pick Up My Benz It was a.m. when I boarded the bus I took a seat in the back I was off to purchase a car not built in the US I kept my down payment in my green back pack

by AcidBurn

I observed the well dressed man with the briefcase spill his coffee on his important papers I pulled out a few bills so that he could get them replaced he replied, you are a life saver Then boarded the woman who walked slightly off keel she wore a fresh set of clothes and was on her way to an interview I pulled out a few bills so that she could get a solid heel she replied, I don't know how to thank you The driver tried to turn away a man with one leg because he was poor he did not smell pleasant and could not pay the fare I pulled out a few bills to pay for his ride and so much more he replied, I'm so grateful that someone cares I spoke with the young girl in the waitressing gear whose tips came up short today she had dreams of being an artist and needed to build her profile I pulled out a few bills to pay for her materials and clay she replied, I swear to make your contribution worthwhile The mother of two pushed a stroller with a broken wheel and anger I watched it nearly tip over along with the youngsters in tow I pulled out a few bills so I would know the children were out of danger she replied, muchas gracias, angel bueno Then a young dad clutched the hand of a frail child, half dead he was temporarily jobless and the child was painfully hungry I pulled out a few bills so I would know the child was well fed he replied, this day I thought we might never see I arrived at my destination with only fifteen 'til the hour I reached into my back pack to pay for what I knew would be mine I pulled out a single bill and realized I had given away every dollar I turned around without regret and would have to return at another time

The other day I just stopped, I started thinking about the changes in the world – When I was a kid – till now.

There were very few kids I knew that didn’t have both parents at home.

There were grown folks conversations that we didn’t hear, words that were unacceptable (and now these and worse are used in family TV) and we never heard. Neighbors looked out for each other, we didn’t lock our doors; everyone just looked out for each other. All parents looked out for each other’s kids. If an adult saw a kid doing something they shouldn’t they would stop them and talk to their parents with them if necessary. Kids listened to adults with respect more often.

Now, the adults were also different.

At about 16 if not sooner kids started with little jobs, babysitting, lawn mowing/yard work, fast food, waitress, cooks, busboy, etc. At 18 – early 20’s they got out on their own or went to college.

- By the way I’m not saying that this is the way everyone is, but it is happening more than it should. I was on my own at 16 and never went back for support, only to visit (maybe for advice & a meal…HA! HA!). I look around and more and more adult children are living with their parents still and a lot of them don’t have any responsibilities and they don’t think they should. They take from their parents, live off their parents, and borrow money knowing they won’t pay it back. The world owes them! Their parents owe them! A lot of parents don’t know what to do because they love their kids and don’t want them on the street, but have tried everything besides that to get them off their behinds and out on their own. The pain and hurt, becoming in debt and doing without is so traumatic on parents. Parents lose so much, and it is a very serious problem in the US. It is so bad; what happens when the parents are no more?

Sincerely,

the Frosted Flake

It has been a long time since a belief I had was challenged so severely and so quickly after I had just finished stating it so eloquently (gimme one sentence of conceit before I proceed to chastise myself). Sometime back I wrote an article about teenage pregnancy and the media hysteria surrounding it (shout out to Alaska Levi for running from the shotgun wedding…they say baby’s mama’s mama is a good shot) and while I still stand by the basic theories, reality has decided to kick my a** into clarifying my opinions or risk the guilt that someone prowling the internet for a confirmation of their beliefs takes my words out of context.

Point 1: You’re kids are having sex. While that may be true, don’t allow it and you sure as s--- shouldn’t encourage it. Princess’s boyfriend got kicked out of mom’s house? Tough break kid, I’ll give you a ride to a hotel/homeless shelter. Stay here? After I finish laughing for twenty minutes, hand me that baseball bat, will you? Being an intellectually open parent doesn’t mean you need to let your kids know what level of dumb behavior is acceptable. Always keep the threat of consequences ambiguous and in close proximity. And can I reiterate the need for condoms and STD education? I can? Okay…GIVE THESE KIDS SOME DAMN KNOWLEDGE!! (peace to Minor Threat, but I’m screaming at a wall…)

Point 2: Teens without opportunities have kids because it’s the only thing they can control. While I stick by this, I encourage everyone who knows anyone, anywhere who is irresponsible to not have kids. By proposing this sociological theory, I wasn’t excusing it, only explaining it (like why young Palestinians become ‘martyrs’ when all political avenues are closed to them).

There is no rush to have a child, child. Ever seen Maury, and those dumb a** kids trying to have babies? Someone may think you belong up there. F--anybody who doesn’t support a teenage parent who makes a mistake, but if you are trying to have kids before you know what you are doing with your life… you’re giving every reactionary right-winger the ammo they need to condemn a whole generation and goosestep us into an era of state sponsored “morality” and “values” education.

At some point in my reevaluation of the whole situation, I realized that maybe there’s just too many people on the planet already. I’m not advocating population control in any mandated way, but I think as a society we may need to think about the greater dangers of overpopulation and diminishing resources. I love my child, and would like another someday, but maybe the world is better off if it never happens. Now, for the purposes of unburdening a bleeding liberal’s heart, an open letter…

To the girl with sunshine in her eyes, I know you’ll never read this, but I hope the feelings travel to you on the positive flows of the universe. Yes, there is nothing greater than knowing that you are responsible for the creation of another life. There’s no feeling like it and I would wish that experience for all who want it. But…children are more often than we might like to think, products of the relationship of their parents. A dysfunctional relationship leads to a dysfunctional childhood. “Oops the rubber came off” leads to a life of near misses and stumbling towards the finish line. A baby produced out of pure love (I think the term ‘love child’ should be given its proper respect as a beautiful notch in human evolution) can only have that much to draw from. So what about a child born out of no love? Not only no love, but the outright rejection of love. I wouldn’t want to say this kid would grow up devoid of happiness, but the universe has a harmony to it. You can’t count on a father’s emotional/financial involvement. You have people to help you? Great. But someday little dimpled/eyes of sunshine child will ask about why daddy left the two of you. You don’t think that telling this child that you never planned on daddy being there isn’t going to break its motherf***** heart? Best case scenario, the guy is an involved and responsible single dad, the day will still come when he flakes out on his child (if you were paying attention, you saw me do it in front of your eyes) and breaks its heart.

You accused me of lecturing, but that is not what this is. This is a plea from the bottom of my heart that you find happiness in all its forms, not just in motherhood.

For the record, love is the most important prerequisite, and you have plenty to give a child. If you ever need a babysitter, you have my number.

With a smile, an Eeyore sigh, and a “deep conversation,”

Rick, Potential father #073

I never thought I'd make things such a mess.

Hurting everyone I've ever loved in this place.

That's what I get, I guess.

Sorry, I know I'm a disgrace.

I put everyone I knew to shame Put every single one of them through pain I really am the one to blame Now, my life deserves to be disdained.

Now, tell me why I'm still alive.

Now, tell me why I'm still alive.

(Chrous:) I could end it all with a 38.

No more pain, I'll leave you with a clean slate.

I could end it all with a 38.

But, I can't seem to find a reason. (ohh a reason) Why I should get death due to treason?

I want to make it alright (alright) Hey, that's the life of a screw up.

When you can sit and wish to make everything all right.

But, knowing it'll never happen.

Now, tell me why I'm still alive?

Tell me now whether I should survive?

I gave you my update Yes, my sh** should make you irate.

I'd suggest you to investigate, the reasons I'm still standing. ( I can'tspeak look cry reason with you.)

Now, tell me why I'm still alive?

Should I be put to death?

Yes, I'm guilty of treason.

Why do you suggest we're in such a mess.

Now, tell me why I'm still alive?

(Chrous:) I could end it all with a 38.

No more pain, I'll leave you with a clean slate.

I could end it all with a 38.

But, I can't seem to find a reason. (ohh a reason) Why I should get death due to treason?

Give me the reason (give it to me.)

Give me the reason I should get death due to treason.

(Chrous:) I could end it all with a 38.

No more pain, I'll leave you with a clean slate.

I could end it all with a 38.

But, I can't seem to find a reason. (ohh a reason) Why I should get death due to treason?

Now, tell me why I'm still alive(x2)

June 25th 2009 A Dark Cloud Falls Over June At 9:28 am on the 25th of June 2009, the beautifully mesmerizing Farah Fawcett passed away from the cancer that she had been strongly battling for some time now. She was a strong, beautiful, sweet woman, we will all miss. Farah, we love you!

As our tears are running down our cheeks, the sadness has just begun. Trying to build up the courage to tell loved ones of the tragedy that we can’t quite bring ourselves to fully believe when the speakers seem to, as if completely on their own, get louder and the world seemed to stop turning for this single tragic moment as we hear the words “Michael Jackson has died.”

This can’t possibly be.

Michael was rushed to the hospital earlier in the day due to what they thought may have been a heart attack that apparently turned out to be fatal.

What could be happening to the world when the gorgeous Charlie’s Angel & the King of Pop are dead today?

Farah Fawcett, at the age of 62... We love you & will treasure your memory forever.

Michael Jackson, only 50… You truly left your mark on the world and those whose lives you’ve touched will have never had been the same without you.

We love you both!!

I love you both and my heart goes out to the friends and families of these iconic legends.

She was asked once, "What number are you from 1 to 10?" She replied, "a 9," with a big smile. In the beginning she was recognized for her gorgeous hair and smile. I even had the 'Farrah-Cut'. I think it's now a classic. She was a college beauty queen, and in 1969 she started doing commercials, modeling, and some small acting parts. In 1976 she married Lee Majors 'The Six Million Dollar Man', did her famous swimsuit poster, and was also one of the original 'Charlie's Angels'. She only stayed on the show for one year and left to go on and try to work in the movies. It was hard for her to advance in acting because she was so beautiful and wasn't taken seriously. In 1980 she separated from Lee Majors and was very tired of being a sex symbol. She finally landed some awesome roles in movies such as the 'Burning Bed' and 'Extremities'. She became the queen of TV movies. In total she earned three Emmys.

Then she desperately wanted a baby. Farrah and Ryan O'Neil ('Love Story') were very much in love and were pregnant in four years. They were together this time for seventeen years. Even though not married, he bought her a wedding ring in Paris that she loved and always wore. Their only child was named Redmond. In 1997 they broke up. She was always so full of surprises; at 48 and 50 she did centerfolds in 'Playboy'; still as beautiful as always. In 2006 she appeared on a tribute to Aaron Spelling. One month later she was diagnosed with a rare deadly cancer that was treatable, but incurable. Ryan was very understanding because in 2001 he was diagnosed with leukemia which is now in remission. This was a very hard time for Farrah. Her mother passed away which was very difficult; while mourning her mother she started bleeding and had to return home. For two and a half years she has been fighting this disease. She made a film of her fight, and it was such an inspiration to the world for her strength and courage. The torturous treatments and chemo were horrendous to watch. Everyone should see this film for the inspiration and it's great sensitivity; it's called 'Farrah's Story'. The film shows the pain, struggle, and the torture of her fight and strength to never give up. This rare cancer only effects about five thousand people a year. She even traveled back and forth to Germany for treatments. She had nine tumors in her liver and was at stage four cancer. When they would cure one tumor, multiple would come back in it's place. Due to her being too weak to go out, Ryan had to approve the final cut of the film.

She went through so many treatments that her hair started thinning. She was so brave; she shaved her hair without a tear. Even without it she was as beautiful as ever. She was confined to her bed for a couple of months. Even though Red (son) was in jail on drug charges he was brought in to see her not knowing it would be the last time. Ryan proposed to her constantly throughout their relationship, so he did it again. They decided as soon as she got strong enough to say, "I do" she accepted. But time ran out. They didn't need a license because they were soul mates. Their relationship was even more than husband and wife. She was the girl next door, very unpredictable, and full of surprises such as painting with her body, doing Playboy at 48 and 50; she was sexy, classy, gentle, and very amazing. The last words she spoke to her doctor were, "Thank you." Her last hours she was surrounded by love. Ryan was at her bedside comforting her, expressing his love, sharing funny stories and tender moments that they shared as she drifted off pain free and peaceful. Farrah, I will love you and your courage. You are an inspiration to the world. You will be in my heart always, never forgotten.

With love and much respect,

Sincerely, Frosted Flake

Michael Jackson has been in part of my life since he first started his career. He is only one year younger than me; it is amazing the accomplishments he has made in his life. While he started his career at the young age of nine, he wasn't alone. His four brothers alongside him were known as the Jackson 5. They were raised in a very different time with a father that was very strict. Their career started so quickly and rose so rapidly to stardom that there wasn't a lot of time for being a kid. It was obvious that Michael was very gifted, and there was a magic about him. To be so young he was very focused on family and career. As a child myself it amazed me the way he could make me feel and understand the words to his music. He and his brothers got along very well, and the family was really close. As normal children they teased each other, and one of the things they teased Michael about was his nose which was very hurtful and began his feelings of insecurity about his looks. Personally, I thought he was very handsome as he came across as one of those children you just wanted to go up and hug.

Watching him, he had a presence of gentleness, shyness, and such a loving way; it was very obvious that he was going to be a bright and shinning star.

The more I heard him and watched his talent grow, the brighter he seemed to me. Throughout his life there was tragedy, ridicule, and constant hurtful rumors but Michael never gave up. This was very traumatic for Michael because his fans were his priority next to his family. Even with the turmoil, Michael kept rising to stardom at a rapid rate. The pressure had grown after he became a solo artist. He was such an important part of my life; as I grew older, I saw how important he was in my children's lives. My oldest son at the young age of two was trying to name his younger brother who was still in my tummy Michael Jackson and continuously tried to convince me of his brother's name. He also believed that there was a little bird keeping his brother company in my tummy. I found the connection with the bird to be very special because Michael was such an animal lover. Both my sons grew up to love Michael and spent countless hours learning his dance moves; my youngest son being called Michael Jackson by his big brother even before he was born, I found this all to be very significant and special to me. Michael Jackson had such a positive effect on all ages. Even though he might not be everyone's favorite, his genius in music, dance, and videos added a significant change in all of these areas around the world. The loss of this special person is a great tragedy; Michael has been a part of my family's lives in so many ways. Even though I never met him, there will always be a place in my heart that misses him. In my mind, I only have positive feelings; there will always be gossip and negative things said when you are in the public eye as much as he was. What sticks in my mind and in my heart when I think of him will always be his tender shy voice, his sweet smile, and the love that always sparkled in his eyes. I will always love you, Michael and be thankful for the gifts you gave the world. You will always be in my heart and never forgotten.

Michael Jackson 1958-2009 One of the World's Brightest Stars

A LETTER TO Mr. JACKSON, NOT CURTIS, NOT PHIL, NOT BO, BUT MICHAEL JACKSON, SHARED YOUR GIFT WITH THE WORLD, WE SHOULD OWE YOU, BUT YOU WERE NEVER TAX’N, NOW THESE CRITICS WANNA BE STARTIN’ SOMETHING’, BUT YOU’RE THE KING OF POP, AND THEY’RE ONLY FRONT’N, SO I’LL TELL’EM FOR YOU, “DOESN’T MATTER WHO’S WRONG OR RIGHT, JUST BEAT IT,” CAUSE MJ’S GONNA MOONWALK ALL NIGHT, AND HIS MUSIC THE WORLD STILL NEEDS IT, “IF THEY SAY WHY, WHY, TELL’EM IT’S HUMAN NATURE,” WAY YOUR FANS WILL ALWAYS LOVE YOU, CRITICS DON’T GET CHA, THEY CONTINUE TO JUDGE YOU, KNOW YOU’RE IN HEAVEN, WITH MARLEY TALKIN, SINGLE GLOVE CLOUDED PLATFORM, STILL MOONWALKIN, WORLD WILL NEVER FOR GET CHA, HITS ON THE CHARTS, STILL POP’N, LIKE THE OTHERS, I MOURN AND MISS YA, SOMETIMES I JUST WANNA SCREAM, BUT THEN I PLAY ME SOME BILLIE JEAN, THE WAY YOU MAKE ME FEEL, LIKE ANYONE CAN FOLLOW THEIR DREAMS, AS A KID WAS SCARED OF THILLER, WAS MY NUMBER ONE NIGHTMARE FILLER, MOMS WOULD TELL ME I WAS BAD, FELT LIKE A SMOOTH CRIMINAL, WAY I BROKE THE HEARTS OF THESE P.Y.T.’S, DIDN’T HAVE YOUR STAR POWER, COMPARED TO YOU, MY SHINE WAS MINIMAL, GONNA REMEMBER YOUR BEST, NOT DWELL ON YOUR DIRT, CAUSE IN LIFE, THERE’S TIMES THAT THE PAIN JUST HURTS, ANOTHER DAY IS GONE, BUT A STAR WILL NEVER LOSE ITS SHINE, YOU ARE NOT ALONE, CAUSE EVEN ANGELS, HAVE TO GO BACK HOME, STARTIN WITH THE MAN IN THE MIRROR, GONNA MAKE A CHANGE, RIGHT OR WRONG, WORLDS GONNA MISS YA, COULD YOU SING US ONE LAST SONG…..

P_o_e_T

Okay, anyone that knows Reggie T. knows that I'm actually still grieving over the loss of Anna Nicole Smith. ::Anna, Anna, Anna Nicole- you're so outrageous:: I loved her.

You know how, like- when you hear about a celebrity death at first, it kinda doesn't matter that much to you and you just say "aww, that's sad" to yourself and go about your day. Like, when Aaliyah and Left-Eye died I kinda just laughed out of disbelief and denial; but then it *hit me*...

They're gone!

Now, the homegoing of Michael Jackson has really hit me... and I'm sad about it! It was f***ing Michael Jackson! Like- are you f***ing serious? I don't care what anyone says, that man was a SOMEBODY! He was the American Dream, or Nightmare...whatever. He was *IT* and I'm sad about his loss, ok? Ok.

Michael Jackson is a loving and caring person to me. You should always thank him for all the hard work on writing songs for us. He is always watching us from above. He loves all of us. He is an awesome and a great singer. Smooth Criminal is a great song. I think it is the best song he has ever written. I won’t stop listening to that song.

Another great song of his is Thriller. But I think that Smooth Criminal has a good beat and good lyrics. The thing I like about Thriller is that everything is just talking about the zombies and stuff. It is really fun to listen to and it is also real scary. Michael Jackson could be the best writer I have ever heard of. Smooth Criminal is a sad song.

Michael has the best dances like the Moon Walk and the lean. I think Michael Jackson’s dancing has a lot of beats to what his song is.

Michael Jackson’s songs sometimes remind me of memories of things that happened in the past. When I heard about his death, I was really sad and was about to cry. I didn’t find out until my mom said out loud that she got a text from her friend Jenny that Michael Jackson was dead. And when I watched the memorial it was kind of sad, but it tells everyone’s memories from what happened to them.

Hopefully Michael Jackson is very happy where he is.

by

AcidBurn

The whole world loved him. I can say that Michael Jackson only made a huge impact on me for a span of maybe five years of my life.

I always knew that he had been singing from a very young age, and after that, I knew he was still around. He was just a superstar who was beyond the reach of us regular folks; whether he was making music or making headlines, he was unreal. It took the tragedy of his death to make me truly grasp the extent of his life. Michael was a human and he was very real to so many people. His career started at a very tender age and continued over several decades until the day he died. He was always there as a great humanitarian and was there when the unfortunate needed an advocate. There is so much that could be said, but it would never be enough. I, along with billions of people around the world, have witnessed something great that Michael Jackson has done.

The world was better off with him, and I hope that he can continue to be an inspiration even in his death; maybe more so than ever before. He has made a life long impact on anyone that has seen or heard his talent.

Michael will be missed but not forgotten.

'I love him so much,' the words uttered by Paris, Michael's 11 year old daughter. In tears she spoke of how he was the best father she could ever imagine; these, the words of an innocent child. Michael Jackson has changed the world in ways that are far too great for us to really even grasp. Michael Jackson's story is long and heartfelt as well as sad shadowed with tragedy. The man will forever be an icon although he never knew the legend he was while he was alive. This is such a sad moment as I sit here contemplating the days when Michael Jackson was on MTV every half hour and there was hour long shows dedicated to the makings of his videos. Now as I sit back and reminisce over those wonderful days, I turn from channel to channel only to see the sadness that has fallen over the world as our beloved King of Pop, friend, and hero has been taken from our world in our selfish eyes, just too early. We will love and cherish him forever‌It’s all too sad to know that he isn’t here for us to show him just how much.

Michael, We Love You & your memory will live on forever in our hearts.

Thank you for all you have given us.

-Crash

Once upon a time, in a land long ago forgotten by your local ten P.M. newscast, a young man sat on a rock and waited…and waited…and waited…

At a riper age than we would deem acceptable in our society, the boys of this land are sent out to fend for themselves. Hunting and gathering, though the gatherings were slim pickings. Unfortunately, our hero was born with an utter lack of hunting skill, and thus doomed to sit on this rock and let the food come to him.

Some say that the skill can be learned, but our hero didn’t even have the skill enough to track these people down, let alone animals.

Of course, he could have ran around and picked off the smaller, temporarily filling game that ran close by, but like all the men of the land he hoped to land a Maleosuta. A Maleosuta was a mythical creature which, if caught, could keep a man nourished for a lifetime. Don’t ask me how, they didn’t have refrigeration or preservatives, but believe me, they were real. It was said that if one were patient, a Maleosuta would come to you. So the boy with no hunting skills sat on his rock and waited…and waited…

One day, a Maleosuta passed by his rock and gave him the perfect opportunity to snare it. Proving his skills to be utterly lacking, he rushed it too fast, and it scurried away. Fading into a sunset drenched plain, scared and never to return.

He learned his lesson that day, so when another approached soon after, he ignored it. The Maleosuta grazed near his rock for a long time and got comfortable with his presence, proving to be its downfall. He trapped it, prepared it, and enjoyed the spoils of his patience. It was everything they always told him it would be. More delicious than any meal could ever have been, and the supply of meat seemed endless. He ate until he couldn’t eat anymore, and the next day, there was always more to throw over the fire…

But after the calendar flipped and moon phased many, many times, something seemed wrong. Maybe he had been preparing too big of portions… Maybe he had been too careless with the leftovers…No matter the reason, one day, it was all gone. He sat hungry on his rock and waited…and waited…and waited…

He had never known hunger like this. It was almost unbearable, this thought of never having that food that surpasses all others. Now that he had tasted the sweet flesh of the Maleosuta, he could never consider chasing the small game. So he waited…and waited…

Several years passed before he saw another Maleosuta, but this one would not approach his rock. It stayed within eyesight for many moons, before the boy had to make a decision. Obviously, this one was not going to come to him. He would have to at least learn to approach it from this short distance if he was going to fill his belly once again. He practiced on the smaller animals, and quelled the hunger pangs, all in preparation for his approach on the Maleosuta.

When he was finally ready, he cautiously made his way across the plain towards the animal. It sensed his presence but, rather than running away, it simply started walking in the opposite direction towards a hill on the other side of the flatlands. The boy thought this would work out perfect. He could follow it slowly until it turned a corner, and then surprise it from a blind spot. He pulled out his knife and prepared for the kill. He got into position and waited…and waited…and waited…

He sensed the Maleosuta coming around the corner, tensed up, and leapt at the creature. Before he even had a chance to fear, the Maleosuta had swung a giant foot at his throat, slitting it open with its giant claws. The boy gasped for air as he withered and died in a puddle of his own blood. The Maleosuta gave a blank, unknowing expression to the scene, and returned to the plain.

Hi, my name is Krissie. I’m 22 and a single mother of a 3 year old boy, who is my world.

Everything I do in my life is for him, so we can have a good life together.

I’m 5'2 and skinny, but one of my jobs I have is as an Oil Wrestler with Pa Oil Wrestling.

We do events with clubs and bars and it is always a good time. I am struggling a little bit with finances, but I am keeping my head up and staying strong for my son because I know I can do whatever I set my mind to, and we will get through these hard times just as anyone else could.

by acidburn I hope that I am not the only one who believes this, but tutoring and teaching are not the same thing. Teaching is like construction and tutoring is more like archaeology. Teaching must create a foundation and supply his pupils with details of a lesson. Tutoring requires the pupil to regurgitate what was taught and interpret it into the appropriate situation, but most importantly, there should be no new information. Teaching requires students to open their mind, while tutoring asks students to dig in their own minds.

Teaching involves the details needed to understand a concept. Teachers have to provide what you need to understand including definitions, terminology, and applications. The great thing is that a teacher can also be a tutor, or at least they should be, by making themselves available for one on one clarifications. A teacher will give what they think is important for you to learn, but it may not always be what you need to understand. Everyone who desires to learn will need a teacher, but it is not true that they will need a tutor. That will depend on the type of student and from where their difficulties in learning are coming.

Tutoring becomes important when one on one learning is needed but will require a give and take relationship and not just a teacher trying to fill the student with information. Tutoring comes in to fuse what was taught with comprehension and application. A tutor can take you step by step through the details of a given lesson and answer questions like, ‘Why?’. A tutor should ask the student from where they think their problems are coming. Tutoring should be used to build confidence because the student is unquestionably doing most of the work, while the tutor just guides them to the answer.

I know that tutoring is very different from teaching. A good tutor will need to spend sufficient time with a student to be in tune with them enough to see where the problem is before the student does. A good tutor will use prior experience with learning curves and apply a solution to future students. The most important thing on the part of the student is that when they ask for help, their attitude should be one of modesty. They should be humble as they learn because the student cannot assume they know it; that is why they are asking for help. Kudos to the tutor for knowing their subject well enough to be able to share it with you. A teacher will teach a lesson the same way every time, but a tutoring session will always vary.

CAN’T SAY FAREWELL OVER THE PHONE, SO I’LL WRITE IT THE ONLY WAY THAT I KNOW, SHE WISHED ME THE BEST, TOLD HER HAD TO MOVE ON, EVEN AS I FELT THE PAIN IN MY CHEST, BABY KNEW I HAD TO WRITE YOU ONE LAST SONG, CAUSE LOVE IS A MESS, BLOW YOU A KISS BEFORE I’M GONE, CAUSE MY SOUL YOU’D UNDRESS, BUT YOU HAD ME FEELING TEN TIMES STRONG, I’LL TAKE ONE DEEP BREATH, THEN MY HEART BEAT WILL MOVE ALONG, ENJOYED EVERY MINUTE OF IT, EVEN IF IT WASN’T THAT LONG, GONNA TITLE THIS, OUR GOODBYE SONG……

EVEN NOW THAT I’M FEELIN HEART BROKEN, KNOW THAT YOU WERE SPECIAL, NOT THE TROPHEY WIFE, BUT THE MOST VALUABLE TOKEN, YOU WERE THE COMPLEMENTARY IN MY LIFE, ALL THE VOCABULARY IN THE WORLD, CAN’T PAINT THE PICTURE, OF HOW YOUR BEAUTY IS SPOKEN, I LOVE THE WAY YOU FELT,

Crash & Burn’s Official

Hot List Now there are many magazines that have Hot & Not lists, but this one is different. Just so you know, we focus on the HOT and not so much on the not. All else is left up to your own sentiment. Everyday in America, we glorify people for their beauty but sometimes people are over looked or just not given enough credit.

Chris Rock – Chris Rock is the man…lately he’s kind of gone off our radar, but he’s awesome and unlike any other comedian out there. He has played many roles from serious to silly and nailed them all. This is a man that made the world believe he was a crack head when he played ‘Pookie’ and still looked like a pimp when he stepped on stage. As of recently he has done many stand up shows for charity benefits. Chris Rock is the man and should be respected!

Rose McGowan – Sadly we have noticed that many are far too quick to dismiss her.

Dare I say, “Why?” She is an excellent actress and a bonafide hottie. With her sensual voice, big beautiful eyes, and extensive body language she captivates the audience and sells her part before she even speaks. She speaks with eyes, fingers, hips, and lips. She is a force to be reckoned with.

Any other Rose could never be this hot. Much Love, girl!

Patrick Stump – Patrick is a man of unique character, definitely defying all stereotypical style.

Becoming the lead singer of Fall Out Boy after having gone to Julliard, he breaks the mold at every opportunity. He has a tremendous voice that is unmatched anywhere. It is fairly obvious by watching him in his live performances and interviews that he puts everything he’s got into his work and performance. He is a very respectable, highly underrated musician.

Johnny Depp – As he himself has proclaimed, he is somewhat of a black sheep in Hollywood.

He has said in interviews that if it wasn’t for Tim Burton, he would never get a part. This is tragic as he is an amazing actor. There’s nothing he can’t do. He has already done it all and proven himself to be a phenomenal actor. So to all you Hollywood directors, it’s your loss. Depp is also probably one of the hottest men alive.

Kelly Clarkson – This girl has come so far.

She has a voice that…no matter how many songs you hear or how many times you hear her…the power in her voice is just amazing. And the passion and conviction with which she sings you can feel when you hear the sound of her voice. This beautiful young lady has accomplished so much and there’s only more to come. Kelly is hot in every meaning of the word. Keep doing what you’re doing, girl. We love ya!

Once long ago in a place not far from here a man sat alone pondering the ways of life. Thinking of the good times and the bad that had past him over throughout the years, he came to realize they were all just moments in time. These moments although just mere moments had affected him greatly as he had evolved from the man you once knew into a man no one recognized. He had become a man he hardly knew himself. This, a tragedy of immense proportions, could not be rectified or could it have been?

As he sat looking back on his life, reviewing the things he saw before him…the loves lost, the broken hearts, the tragic lonely nights, the coldness he felt when he felt alone…these are the things he saw in his life. When he thought of his brother, a great man with a great job and a beautiful, model-type wife, and having wonderful children; these are the things that he felt amounted to greatness. A man of true convictions, he felt the need to distance himself from those around him…Disagreeing with many and feeling as though to be not good enough to measure up to the others. This constant battle inside his head of how he felt no one could be on his level or he on anyone else’s…the sadness and frustration consumed his very being. Continuing to wonder of what might have been, could have been, should have been, or maybe would have been if…He was quite an intelligent man and although if ever he heard the word ‘if’ murmured from the lips of another, they would have been called out as to say that living on ‘if’s’ is no way to live…these words sadly enough he could not hear himself. His life had been spent living for the future never once living for the moment and all that would change as he can no longer see the future. He can see only this moment, this one moment in time. The moment that makes all the difference, the one that changed everything forever. The sadness and despair fell upon him. As he continued to fall further and further into his own insanity; it is true that looking out over the lights, he drove himself mad. All alone and living only for this moment, for the first time, he will live for now and only now as the bleakness of the future is far too sad to contemplate anymore. The failure mustn’t be dwelled upon anymore. And then it hits him…maybe it doesn’t have to be this way; maybe things could change…and then the words creep into his mind once again; “what if”…what if things will be different…what if they turn out differently than I thought…what if…sadly…all but a moment too late.

by acidburn Move over moms. I can think of a million reasons a child needs a father, but I can only think of two for which someone really needs a mother. I often feel that the necessity of a mother ceases after breast feeding. Only a mother can carry a baby in her body and only a mother can provide the milk that gives a baby the best nutrition. After that, mothers are frequently and utterly altogether useless. What else is there that another well meaning human can’t do? Kids are our most precious asset and they truly are the future; but more and more often I hear from other people, as well as witness with my own eyes, how children have been damaged by their mom. Their mom ignored them or told them they were stupid, useless, or worse, a mistake.

One sad and unfortunate and all too common scenario is when the mom experienced a poor parenting experience as well. It’s hard to be a good characterization when you didn’t have an example of your own. It still doesn’t get you off the hook, but I’ll cut you a little slack. In turn, if children see the bad attitudes toward grandparents, what more can a mom expect to come from their child? The attitude will continue with the successive generations unless someone puts a stop to it. Most moms are likely to react in contrary to their own mom. Again, this results in resentment and the back and forth cadence of one extreme in parenting with the other.

A perfect mother would do everything humanly possible to teach their child life’s lessons. I know that no mom is perfect, and no one should be expecting them to be, but there is a difference from having the best intentions and still making mistakes, and behaving selfishly while not living up to the commitment that is necessary to produce a healthy, well-adjusted, fully-functioning member of society. Someone must teach a child to love and have compassion. Someone must teach them a balance of pride and humility. Someone must teach the future the importance of morals. Someone must protect and nurture them but at the same time prepare them to be independent. Children are born with human instinct, but the influence of mom and the ‘mom force’ is so powerful that it will overrule instinct drastically.

Mothers have an instinct too, but I think a lot of them ignore it. Many mothers, unfortunately, fall short with their instructions, and the results are not good. The scourges of today's society I blame solely on the lack of good parenting, and especially on the mothers that just don’t try.

For once money doesn’t change things. An excess of wealth makes a mother think that they can buy a childhood, and she still gets to have everything she wants. A lack of wealth makes a mother use that as an excuse for not providing a good childhood.

What really matters is the connections made with their children and not carrying out the actions that can be potentially scarring. The real misfortune is that the child is permanently connected to this woman whom they might not have otherwise selected as their caregiver. These moms feel an entitlement to be the provider, the child feels entitled to be provided for; the result often feels like torment for both.

Women, and therefore mothers, are selfish by nature. They become embarrassed by the shortcomings of their children when they really should be embarrassed by their own shortcomings as a parent.

Additionally, the foolish single moms who think they should go it alone think it makes them empowered. It doesn't make her empowered at all; it means she is delusional and is trying to circumvent the truth in that she chose a loser to impregnate her. Another issue includes the dense middle-aged moms, with school-aged children who go out and get tattoos or piercings or plastic surgery but still continue to try to say that it is not acceptable for their kids. She is setting a horrible example and she doesn’t even have the option anymore to say that she was 'young and stupid' because they watched her do it. She is trying to either relive or recreate a wasted youth. Then there are the young people who are having children; and I mostly worry for the sake of the parents.

They have the most to lose when they are still evolving themselves. On the other hand, they have the most potential to give their children lots of attention. I think a lot of young parents get a bad rap and they need the most help.

Children don’t need a specific woman to care for them, and they need more than just a mom; they need more than just a mom and a dad. It takes 'A Village,' as the saying goes. The greatest task a mom can ever do is ask for help; or better still, become a mother in name only. Some moms should walk away if necessary and let someone else raise her kids because a mother’s entitlements are her worst hang-ups.

Oh darling why can't we have just one goodnight?

Why does the job require so much askers?

'Tis brings me such affright But I know you're a noble man in a land of actors Will you write me back in the dark mist of that campsite?

Will you remember me while running through the acres?

Can you manipulate them just as a cardsharp?

Will you mail me daily just so I can be reclined?

Oh my darling forgive my harp Baby I just don't want you headlined for death, only for being so sharp You courage is what you are defined?

Oh darling I'll dream of you in the twilight oh and please don't be a wrangler this just isn't a little water gun fight This is one time you can't be a gamester This is real- not a play write Go on out and save the world- leave behind your rhymester I'll be waiting arms outstretched- even if I do carp.

I chose you and that I'd never rewind go on out to that bloody world- remember me under that tarp Every trip home- me waiting is what you’d find.

Nothing here would change, especially my harp.

Then here we'd lay- entwined.

At last, holding one another in the firelight Every jealous eye for miles will admire my wowser for just a little while; forget what makes us contrite. and not for a second can I forget how you empower Soon from now, you'll become another Wainwright I'll be awaiting at home- just another Edgar.

Oh I'm beginning to dream, sweetheart.

Dare I too believe I could unwind?

Can we sleep silently knowing about your depart?

I know we have to be so opined.

We both know this is something you can't abort but here I am alone, must I remind?

I'll remember you every night while swimming in moonlight.

Even though the knot in my throat seems like a windsor Oh how I know you shouldn't get uptight.

But, it's difficult to be a wielder All I do is sit and write trying to forgive our last bicker All you were asking for was a little support Oh honey it makes me feel so blind In the time, i spent all i did was retort What I'd give right now to rewind Why does our time together have to be so short All I can ask is to keep me in mind

All I do is try with all my might but horrible thoughts in my mind they flicker no! never can I let you from my sight Me without you is like a candle without its wicker.

But there you go, not to my delight.

Now, why can't this time go by any quicker!

Write me, while at your fort You're okay is what you must remind In this argument, I always come up short.

Come on, baby. Give me peace of mind.

For days, not even a retort.

Now, I'm scared of what is next to find.

Now, in the darkness of the night.

I feel a little kicker.

I took a test and was right.

Now, hurry up and get home quicker!

I have news that will excite!

No more, shall we bicker!

Boy do I have news to report!

Now everything will be aligned.

There come's a knocking at the doors, it's your escort.

There was nothing they could do- you stepped on a mine.

No! How could our time be up so short?

For your bravery, they will build a shrine.

But, everything was supposed to be alright!

As days past, I found myself sicker.

Flashbacks of all the fights.

To save me now, I'd need a vicar.

You fought to save our rights.

Shouldn't our bonds have been thicker?

Your baby, I can not abort It deserves it's time to shine.

But, her time with her daddy has been cut short.

Time flies by, now she is nine. and she gives you such great support She prays to you every time we dine.

It's hard, sleeping at night- remembering the fights I can't stop picking up the liquor.

Staying up, cursing to god- telling him what's right I know I couldn't have been your fate picker.

Sooner or later, I'll be alright.

Don't worry, I'm not a slicker.

In my prayers to you at night, I must report The things that make chills run down my spine All the times all I did was exhort Seems, even after nine years, all I do it whine.

Here's to the man who fought for us all that I didn't support.

Every Sunday, we gather around your shrine.

We honor your bravery during all your combat fights.

Now, I realize your love couldn't have been thicker.

Our daughter's pride in you is of such great height.

Now, love of my life, your pride is stuck to me like a sticker.

With all you did for us, you should be called a knight.

I'm better now, but how I wished the realization had hit me quicker.

I realize now how I never did come up short.

You did what you had to do without thinking of crossing the dangers line.

Oh, but no mission would you ever abort Never once, did I think I'd ever be this fine. and all these years all I did was contort In my heart, you'll always be mine.

amazing is she the way she moves oh so elegantly in complete chaos and total disarray with lack of forethought she knows the way the light beneath my path that guides my way a brighter tomorrow something greater every day never knowing what to expect no amount of prediction could ever detect the wonders tomorrow will bring demons will cry and angels will sing as she sheds light onto it all oh how deeply i will fall she is the one the one for me she is the one the only one i see she is the one i long to kiss she is the one she is the iris

by AcidBurn

I fear rejection so I always comply; I fear change so I never try; I avoid confrontation; I don’t like to be judged.

Go ahead and make me mad, I won’t hold a grudge.

I don’t want to be ignored, but I try not to stand out.

I’d rather you not know what I’m all about.

My beliefs aren’t always trendy; I don’t want to be pigeon-holed.

My silence regarding makes me hard to decode.

I come across as shy when my thoughts I don’t share.

I can’t accept that you actually care.

I live life full of regrets, but lie to myself that I don’t.

I say that I will try to change, but deep down know I won’t.

I don’t think I fit in; I’m socially awkward; I say the wrong thing at the wrong time and talk sometimes backward.

Trying too hard to say the right thing, I don’t sound natural.

If I pull off a joke, it’s a miracle.

I don’t think I’m normal, I can’t figure out what’s wrong.

I need to find the root of the problem, or I fear I don’t have long.

My paranoia will get the best of me … can someone diagnose me?

I don’t like pills; I don’t like drugs; I hope I can be cured with hugs.

If you can relate, then I pity you.

If you can’t relate, then none of this is really true.

Who has been your strongest opponent?

Well, I don't wrestle a lot. Just when they need an extra girl in the ring, I help out. But I stick to Managing.

You have worked with a lot of people who don’t really like you, so how do you cope with them?

Haha, Yes. It's pretty sad when people believe things about someone without proof or going and asking that person. If you are willing to believe everything you hear, well then, I have a bridge to sell you‌

Have you ever had any serious injuries; what would be the worst?

Nope, Like I said. I don't wrestle much.. Managing doesn't cause much of a long term injury. Maybe a headache from all the Hair pulling.

Have there been any extremely significant matches that have propelled your career?

Working with People like Jimmy Snuka, Dudley Boys, Sabu... Any match I can do has a profound effect on me. Everything can impact your career.

Have you ever held any titles or won any tournaments?

No, I have not, but I can't say that I won't

What has been your proudest moment in your career thus far?

Having a little girl fan come up to me, ask for my autograph, then walk away, only to come back and say she wanted to be just like me. That takes the cake!

As a woman, why did you choose wrestling?

Well growing up, I lived with my Mom, Grandma and Grandfather. Since mom had to work and Grandma was busy. I was always with my grandpa. And when we weren't talking a walk he'd watch wrestling and myself of course being right next to him. He wanted to wrestle, but being in his 70s it was too late for him. He watched with such passion. He died when I was 7 and when it came time to pick a career for myself. I knew then, that if he could have passion just watching it, imagine if you did it.

How hard was it for you to get your start in this business?

On a Scale 1-10... Maybe a 10.. No one wanted me around, when bookers, booked me... No one spoke to me, Girls gave me dirty looks... I never felt so outcasted.

I worked hard at building my name up, only to have a few people pull me right back down. But you overcome it and work harder. You just need to learn who you can work around and who you should stay the hell away from.

Do you have a particular persona in the ring or are you just being yourself?

It's a mix of both... I mean myself personally, I wouldn't wear half the things I wear to the ring out in public. In wrestling it's sexy, in public. It's daywalking ;)

Being a Good Girl (Face) I am more like myself. I want to be a Bad Guy in the ring, but honestly don't think I have it in me to be mean.

Who would you like to work with that you haven’t had the opportunity yet?

Hmm, I'd love to work with Matt Bently, he is a good friend of mine...

I'd love to work with Edge someday... Time will only tell.

Do you have time for a social life? Are you spoken for?

Being in wrestling, no one can speak for you ;). You are=2 0too tough to be spoken for... Social Life of course... I spend a lot of time with Friends and Hang out all over the place.

What do you spend the. few moments of free time that you get doing?

I love to play Video Games, Computer Games, Reply to Emails, See Movies, Go Bowling..

With all the nonsense on TV these days, do you have any guilty pleasures?

Umm, I don't really watch TV.. I mainly stick to watching TV DVD's. I find myself watching "The Girls Next Door" and "The Golden Girls"

If you could meet anyone in the world, dead or alive; who would it be?

I'd rather have my grandfather back for awhile... Just to tell him about all my wrestling experiences.

Are you working towards getting into the WWE or something to that effect or do you prefer to be in a smaller federation?

You know, where WWE have that happy and

I am in wrestling, because I love it. If something happens or TNA calls me and wants something, then yay. I'd love to Opportunity. But if it doesn't happen, I am still extremely feel like I am living my dream.

You already have such a large fan base; you even have some pro wrestlers in the WWE that are fans of yours such as Edge. Can you describe t he feeling you get from knowing that they are out there for you?

It's amazing; honestly, I don't even know how to describe it. When someone buys a t-shirt or an autograph from it, it gets crazy. I seriously look at them and say to myself, are you sure? Who am I? It's overwhelming to have people love you and want hugs, pictures or just a smile from you.

How did you ever get started modeling?

I have been modeling since before I can remember, I really love doing the Sexy modeling I do now the best though. It makes you feel so sexy and beautiful. On an average day I look in the mirror and say, Oh God! But when I do a shoot, it helps the self esteem and makes me glow.

Which do you enjoy doing more; being a model, valet, diva or a wrestler?

Manager/Valet. I do modeling for Wrestling... That is all... Modeling is not a passion of mine... Just a job that comes with Wrestling.

You are already an extremely active woman with multiple career goals; are there any other career choices you may also be looking into?

Nope, I am only here for this... I am not looking to get anything else form this but what I want. And that is ring time.

What do see in your future? Are there any specific goals aside from your career?

Just being happy. I always want to be happy with life and what I am doing.

Do you have any words to leave your fans with?

Just from the bottom of my heart. I adore you all and thank you for wanting to be a fan of mine. Better yet, a Friend.

Thank you Vyper for the opportunity.

It’s truly been a pleasure!

Find out more about Vyper and get yourself some her excellent merch.

Vyper’s Links are www.myspace.com/vyper Merchandise http://www.cafepress.com/vypersvenoms.387361413# http://www.cafepress.com/vypersvenoms.339461040 8x10's can be bought off her MySpace

I was told by a teacher once (I think, don’t judge me if I’m wrong), that anything in parenthesis is there because all those words can be taken out of the sentence without it losing any meaning. This has seemed an invaluable tool to me. I’ve never been one to be clear and concise (you should hear me try to tell a story) and the abundance of parenthesis means I can write what needs to be written (does anything really need to be written?) and still fill the piece with clarifying statements I feel are necessary. If I were writing for, say, the Express-News (that’s pretty damn funny), I’m sure I’d have some editor who’d simply remove all my side comments and you’d probably have an easier read because of it. But what would be made up for in clarity (and really, is it that hard to read every word on the page?), would be lost in my personality as a writer. Like Hunter Thompson… (no, I’m not even going to finish this sentence, because someone will think I’m egotistical enough to say I have even half the talent he had and, oh f**k it…).

The point that would have been presented in the preceding paragraph (alliteration is cool) is that if a writer’s personality doesn’t jump off the page at me, I don’t want to read it (and I certainly don’t want to write it).

By my writing style (yes, I use that word loosely) you should be able to tell that I’m scatterbrained (huh, what?), that I’m terrified I’ll be misunderstood (well, terrified is a strong word, I mean, I’m no punk) and that I’m single and lonely (once again, but I guess that‘s not part of this story). Ultimately, I realize now that I use my parenthetical-mantis style (that’s right, I’m a kung-fu master) to edit my crap rather than actually taking the time to go back and rewrite it. I’d considered writing a piece to be published around inauguration time about the ultimate achievements (can that word have a negative connotation?) of the Bush administration (but by then, nobody cared about their a**es anymore). I could tell (before I’d even written a word of it), that it would have been bloated with these side comments and dismissed by…well, it doesn’t matter. Ultimately, I don’t think I could be honest as a man and a writer (wow, big statement) if I didn’t keep a separate distinction between the facts (the Project for a New American Century devised the Iraq War before Bush even got elected) and my opinions (uh, Dick Cheney can go f*ck himself). This is the only way I know how (at the moment) to do this without stripping a piece down to the bare essentials.

The Bush Years By Xicano 073 George W. Bush is a liar.

The End Somewhere in the middle, is a more accessible and coherent way of writing. I’m resisting the urge, right now, to add a side comment to the previous sentence, and it’s actually kind of painful. But fear not knowledge seekers (can you believe there are people who enjoy being ignorant? It’s true…sad, but true), I will learn to write in a way that isn’t distracting to you and is satisfying to me. So that when (if) I ever do this professionally (and honestly, I got a good job and I ain’t risking that for the possibility of a career as a writer), I won’t need that editor removing all my interruptive parenthesis. I’ll have taken them out myself (and then we’ll only have to argue about him trying to tone down my anarchist rage, ‘cause see, they don’t want the voice of the working class heard, they don’t want me spreading the truth and telling the people about….)

Ed. Note: This last paragraph was edited for length. ; )

Erica Lopez, more commonly known to you as AcidBurn, is amazing and that’s why I had to give her a shout out. An experienced research chemist who has got it all going for her, she’s an extremely intelligent, highly articulate amazingly gorgeous Mexican queen.

She works in a chemistry lab during the week, helps me run Crash-N-Burn Inc., and still takes time to spend with me and my daughter. She always tries to help me out with whatever may be going on whether it be cramming for midterms, pitching new business ideas, partying with the family, or just catching a flick.

It’s been a lot of work getting through school, and she has been right there very supportive from the beginning. She has helped me study, given me tips, or just kept the house quiet when I needed it. She has helped a lot, and I appreciate everything she’s done.

With my daughter, who is my world, she has been so accepting, understanding, and embracive. A lot of women would, although silly, become extremely jealous if their new boyfriend spent a large amount of time focused on his daughter opposed to them. Erica has embraced not only Mariah but the idea of Mariah being my world and loves me more for being the father that I am. She loves Mariah so much and Mariah loves her back. She has such a great concern for Mariah’s well being and her future. Erica & Mariah are great friends, and I am truly grateful for each moment they get to share together.

That day back in 2004 when the planets aligned, and I had the brilliant idea to form Crash-N-Burn Inc., Erica was right behind me. She supported the idea and jumped right in with her ideas and input in order to help build this into the empire I wanted it to be. She has managed to balance all of this and so much more.

She is more than my partner…more than my girlfriend…She is my best friend, my love, my other half. I wouldn’t be me without her, and Crash-N-Burn wouldn’t be without her.

Thank you Erica for all you do and all you are.

I love you more than you will ever know.

I love you Always & All Ways!

by acidburn

In my last article that addressed capitalism and its justified reasoning and necessity; I don't think I completely got my point across. Sure we'd all like to be rich, but many, many, many people don't have the ability or the drive to do the work it takes to get there. But I've got good news; the country needs a working class. I touched on this subject a bit in my article in the section entitled "So, Know your role." I had said, "you are necessary for their plans to work... they don't make money without your part."; where 'their plans' refers to the plans of your boss, or your boss's boss.

An influential man* once said, "...where would the big world be if no-one wanted to look after the small world?

How could the big world continue to exist, if there was no-one to make the task of caring for the small world the centre of their lives? No, the big world rests upon this small world! The big world cannot survive if the small world is not secure."

The main point here is that everything is interconnected; from the worker to the supervisor to the consumer. This is why they are all important and that is why we are seeing such a poor economy lately and why so many of us have lost or are in danger of losing our jobs.

When the wealthy stop spending, then the workers are not needed; when the workers are gone, then the supervisors don’t make money.

It is in the boss's and the company's best interests to create a productive work environment, an appreciative staff of employees, and a profitable good or service.

The complaints of the working class have long been in existence and have been perpetuated by the successive generations. The general dissent is passed between one worker to another as well as between a parent and a child. In addition, it also appears anew from the general observations and comparisons made by those who appear in different classes. Very simply, which ever 'class' you were born into, or think you were born into, doesn't have to determine your fate later in life. Your 'class,' if you so choose to give yourself one, can be changed.

First of all, we are not all given the same skills; and especially not all the same aspirations. So you need people to flip those burgers and be your cashier at McDonald's. Most people will have been there at one point in their life, but they don't make a career out of it. Furthermore, there needs to be people to do the small stuff when there are people who are born leaders. Likewise, there are people who are destined to not be leaders and don’t have the skill set to lead others like they have the skills to work with their hands. Do whatever you are able to do, just don't ever settle for less; thrive and push your limits.

There are far too many people in this world for everyone to have a leadership role anyways. I believe that everyone should be allowed to reach that potential some day, but not everyone will.

A lot of people are perfectly content right where they are; they don’t want the responsibility over others. It’s just like those few people who consciously object to having kids. They don’t want that responsibility; but I digress. Additionally, my point is that no matter what your 'class' may be or what level you may have reached, you can always be the best at what you do.

There needs to be order and distinct echelons of control. The people that become executives have demonstrated that they can make decisions with the best prospects; but remember, they are human, too. Mistakes can be made and actions need to be taken to prevent them. Building levels of decision makers creates accountability. Each person involved is responsible for their part, but at the same time is responsible for holding the others to the same expectations. Any other tasks not personally completed by the individual, all just as important to the end result, need to be delegated to someone. There needs to be acceptance of the truth that some people just need to be told what to do because they don’t know what’s good for them. Other people will gladly continue to supply your burgers, clean your toilets, handle your boxes, and mow your lawns because the only person they are responsible for is themselves. There should be no shame in making your own choices and there should be no loss of respect from people who make different choices. The working class is fundamental if not crucial for the flow of a business, the economy, household income, and the consumer market to continue and prosper.

Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might, for in the grave, where you are going, there is neither working nor planning nor knowledge nor wisdom. - Ecclesiastes 9:10 * The influential man was Adolf Hitler, so overlook the man and hear the wisdom.*

JUST THAT NO ONE SHOWED YOU THE OTHER WAY, SO YOU’RE SCARED TO LEAVE, DECIDE TO STAY, LOVE SHOULD NEVER HURT, YOUR BABIES ARE SCARED TO SLEEP, WAKE UP TO NIGHTMARES OF YOU LOWERED IN DIRT, STILL DOUBT YOU CAN STAND ON YOUR FEET, BUT YOU GOTTA BELIEVE FOR SURE, CAUSE LORD HAS GIVEN YOU STRENGTH, AN YOU’RE CAPABLE OF DOING SO MUCH MORE, CAUSE LOVE ISN’T HURT, LOVE ISN’T CONTROL AND NEGLECT, LOVE ISN’T BLOODSTAINS ON YOUR SHIRT, LOVE ISN’T TOLERANCE AND REGRET, LOVE ISN’T THE VISION, OF A PLOT BURRIED IN A PILE OF DIRT, CAUSE LOVE ISN’T PAIN, LOVE ISN’T VIOLENCE AND SHAME, LOVE IS LOVE, BEAUTIFUL AND NO OTHER NAME….

Crash’s pick Inside Man

This is a truly genius film of immense proportions. Heist movies are always great, but this movie breaks the mold. The title is not merely what you may think or obviously assume it to be…it is so much more…just think about it. It is a deep rooted psychological suspenseful drama that is enjoyable at any age. I recommend it to anyone & everyone.

073’S pick

Burn’s pick

All Quiet on the Western Front

12 angry men (1997)

I know some people have a prejudice against movies that were made before they were born, but to my knowledge no movie shows the utter futility of war better than this story of young German soldiers in World War I.

An intense examination of people, the court system, and the greats of stage, film, and television. Classic story retold with familiar actors. The original film is great also, and has even been labeled as culturally significant.

Frosty’s pick

Catch Me If You Can This movie is from 2002 staring Leonardo DiCaprio & Tom Hanks. The acting in this movie is fantastic. It is based on a true story and it's a must see.

Catch it as soon as you can!

Poet’s pick

Strange Days Before you see Kathryn Bigelow's Hurt Locker, you should see her 1995 sci-fi thriller....Strange Days. It's magnificently brilliant. Angela Bassett is passionately intense in her on screen performance.

This is truly one of my top three.

Well I’ll be damned. As you all know I love Nikki…She is a member of my family.

It broke my heart when I was forced to park her outside of my complex because of the new management. I parked it on the street outside the complex right in front of the bank. I was wrong in thinking that this was a safe place to leave my car. Who would’ve guessed that one day….wait let me start at the beginning where I come in this story.

I was lying in bed enjoying a good rest when all of the sudden there was a knock on the door quickly followed by the door bell. I answered the door first thing in the morning to find two officers asking me if I owned a station wagon and if I had parked it on the street. They explained that there had been an accident. There was a lady sitting at the bus stop across the street and saw the whole thing. A white bronco sped around the corner, tires screeching and slammed into the side of my baby and sped off. I couldn’t believe what I was hearing. The officers offered to get me some help in getting a wrecker if I needed it or anything. I informed them that it would take a few minutes for me to figure out exactly how I would take care of it, but I would get right on it; they need only to concern themselves with catching the perp. They gave me a case number and mentioned that there has been a white Bronco spotted in an HEB parking lot with a busted fender and they were going to check it out.

I went outside and couldn’t believe what I saw…They said it was bad but no amount of preparation could’ve prepared me for what I saw. When I approached my car I was walking up from the rear and noticed that it was crooked and the back didn’t seem too far from the curb but the front appeared far closer. As I approached the front end I noticed the smashed in fender on the driver’s side; I was totally freakin’. Then I walked around the front end and noticed the damage that it caused to my already damaged front end. As I continued around the front of the car, the front passenger tire was bent over the curb…How fast could he have been going to bend my tire over the curb…I couldn’t believe it. My baby was hurting. I got her across the street and got the axels and shocks repaired. She was drivable again, but the front end and fender were in bad shape.

As much of a beating as she took, she kept on tickin’. That’s my girl.

by the Frosted Flake

Short Bread 3 – sticks of butter 1 – cup of sugar 1 – tsp vanilla 3 ½ - flour ¼ - salt (kosher) Mix all ingredients until combined.

Chill for 30 minutes.

Roll out until ½ inch thick Cut and sprinkle with sugar Bake at 350 for 20 20--25 minutes If you wish, you can freeze before baking.

Use parchment paper if at all possible.

Angel Pillows (Meringues) NEVER on a Rainy Day!!

4 – egg whites – room temp ¼ tsp crème of tarter Pinch of salt Mix on high until firm.

Add 2/3 cup sugar & ½ tsp vanilla while mixing till stiff.

Sprinkle 1/3 cup of sugar on top and gently fold in while working on parchment paper.

Draw circles on other side of paper.

With pastry bag make spiral circles – one on top to fill in circles.

Bake at 200º for 2 hours. Right when Meringues brown, then turn off and leave in oven for 4 more hours.

I suggest serving topped with Whip Crème and then fruit.

$ T

here have been many recent studies on the theory that money can buy happiness. They have researched this in great detail and to lengths to which to understand the merit of such a statement. Upon much research they have discovered that there are truths and falsehoods that people should be aware of and the idea is that it is all in one’s own control. n comparison to someone who is making $100,000 a year to someone in poverty, then yes the person with money is going to be quite happier.

When comparing someone who is comfortable in their daily financial stability opposed to someone who is struggling, waiting for food stamps to purchase their meals, and living welfare check to welfare check; of course once again the person living significantly more comfortable is going to be much happier generally. With that being said, let me clarify that this is just the general overview of the study; of course there will always be that one person that doesn’t quite fit the profile. Now, when comparing someone who is making $100,000 to someone making $1,000,000 there is little difference in their happiness levels. This is because their abilities are the same; their needs are being met with added cushion. There is no direct correlation between the amount of happiness and the amount of money; only there with security and stability in regards to money. aking all of this in, there is also evidence proving that money does not buy or create happiness, yet happiness can produce more money. In these studies, they have evidence showing that people that are generally happy are far more likely to be promoted quicker in their jobs and are far more likely to be given raises opposed to those who are typically unhappy or dissatisfied in their day-to-day life. his is a key point to understand because the idea is that yes money cannot give you happiness. Happiness is something that comes from within you, but happiness can bring you more money which will in turn bring you more stability and comfortability in your life and therefore create a better quality of life.

I

T T

It’s time to go to school! I love my first day of school. You want to hear the story of my first day at school? Well, we saw the clock and it was time for school. I get dressed, brush my teeth and hair. Take a shower. Then get in the car and go to school. We meet our teacher and say hi. Then go to gym and wait to go to class. Then when I go to the class, we learned science, social studies, math, English, reading, and writing. In science we learned that mill worms are turning into beetles. In social studies we learned that the capital of Texas is Austin. In math we learned that 8 x 8 = 64. In English we learned that grammar is needed. In reading we learned that making charts is good. In writing we learned that writing helps in hand writing. At the end of the day my teacher told me to stay and learn more. We learned together. I learned that we can get along if I do good. We went on a field trip. We went to the Rodeo. I saw cowboys. I saw bandanas, cowboy hats. I love the rodeo.

Once upon a time there lived a family who lived in a haunted house. They didn't know that it was haunted by a china doll. One day the parents Mr. and Mrs. Hail went out and they left the 13 year old (Samantha) and the seven year old (Johnny) alone. The thing they didn't know is that the china decided to attack that night. So when the parents left, Samantha sat down with Johnny and watched some TV. They were watching an entertaining show called Wipeout. Then, Samantha heard a noise in the kitchen. She asked Johnny if he heard it too. "Yes," said Johnny. "Let's go check it out and see if anything is going on," Samantha said. So they went to the kitchen. They saw the china doll with a knife. They ran outside to their bikes and rode all the way to the police office because the phone was in the kitchen. They told the cops what happened but the cops just laughed at Samantha and Johnny. The cops told them that kids have too big of imaginations and that china dolls can't walk. They went back home to see if the china doll was still there. They walked inside and got knocked out.

Coming next issue: China Doll 2: Revenge

by Princess You never want to know what happened in my wondrous and scary dream. I had a time to share with everyone for a long time. I was about to move into a new house and we moved into a haunted house. We didn’t know for the first few months. You want to know what we did while we did not know we moved into a haunted house? We had to unpack our bags. We saw a family photo that died in the same house we live in now. It was scary and weird to have a family photo that died in the house. We were scared ever since we saw that picture. Finally we found out that it was haunted. I want to find out what happened. So I read a book. What happened was they were at the movies. They got home and saw a mess in the living room and they did not do that. Then they found out there was a murderer in the house. They got murdered. We saw and heard every word. We see that the way things work is that we got sad so sad every day.

Because we got the same thing happen to us. My grandma was with Erica at the funeral. Me and my dad, Corey, died. We loved everyone so much. We never wanted to leave anyone anyways. We love Erica and grandma so much.

See you in heaven. We see so much in each other. We love you all. Don’t worry. You all will go to heaven. Trust me. Erica and grandma were so sad after the funeral, Erica and grandma visited for 3 months now. They finally stopped coming to my grave. They say now grave is over forever. We see people leave and finally get over it. Say goodbye to your family mate and you cry.

Have you ever wanted to do a science project before?

If you say yes, you’ll love it. If you say no then not too hard for you.

There are three reasons it is hard.

1.It

might get really sticky.

2.You might get poisoned.

3.There is potions that blow up.

I don’t know if those things might happen every time. Just like on the movie The Robinsons, Keep moving forward. You can’t give up on this one. Well, you shouldn’t give up on anything anyway. You should be proud for reading my story.

You could be in a science store and be with all your friends and have fun when you learn science. You could be at science stores every day. Well, if you want to, I hope you love my ways of science peeps. See ya!

Day 1 Well we are going to Valero for ice. Now we're on the road and we're just cruising straight. My mom said we are going to see a huge dinosaur in Kentucky. I'm going to read and then I'll watch some movies. Well I think I am gonna go to sleep.

Day 2 I just woke up an hour ago and I am starting to get hungry. I'm also starting to get car sick.

I'm going to play my DS for a while and wait until this afternoon or evening for Ohio. I should tell that I'm writing all of this in the car and I don't feel well. My mom said we are in the great state of Tennessee. Now it's a couple of hours later and we saw the giant dinosaur. It was a T-Rex. Cool night and dinosaur.

Day 3 Today I went to a party and we had a bunch of fun. I had a great dinner. I had chicken tenders. We also went to the store Kroger’s.

We also met a red dog today. We named it sausage.

I talked to my mom and my older step -sister Carie.

Day 4 Today I'm going to go to a baseball game. It's going to be really fun. We are going to go on a boat. I'm going to get a hat for the Cincinnati Reds. Cincinnati Reds are playing the Chicago Cubs. I can't wait. Hey we're back home I had meatloaf for dinner. We all had fun I had my first boat to the game.

Day 5 Today we are going to the store Meijer's and I'm going to get my dad some cookies. We are going to Skyline and we are also going to the park. Hey, we are back and I am tired from running around at the park after the restaurant.

Day 6 Today we got a trailer to get back home so I get to sprawl out on the back seat. Tonight we are going to a pizza place with Steve's brother Alex. I'm back and the food was tasty. Today is our last day here and Steve's parents are nice.

Erica is my dad’s girlfriend. That’s how we met. We have so much fun together. I never thought she would get a job in science. She tells me about science and how she became a scientist. So we became best friends forever.

We have so much fun doing science together. We do experiments. Once I did a flower experiment. We made water go up into a jar with a candle underneath it. We did a crystal experiment with salt.

We did other things like swim, play with slime, watch movies.

We even play house.

She has so many ways to have fun. I love Erica as a friend and as if she was my step mom. I hope she knows that.

pent up rage

by Crash Override

a tear rolls down my cheek day by day they say the futures bleak believing i know better nothing they say can ever matter little do they know of what the future will hold the innocence of a child the future of a new generation at a loss in her presence for her only receiving their condemnation constant moments of neglect a total lack of respect a continuous hindrance impeding her ability to succeed live love fight cry care hurt bleed die to succeed she only needs to breathe worlds collide earths quake the ground beneath her begins to shake upon her these wars are waged anger frustration much enraged all this and more i feel an every day battle in mere attempts just to deal all this far too much to cope this little child an inspiration role model and epitome of hope every day i pray to the messiah Lord please please i pray help Mariah

Photographer and artist, Worm Carnevale, is highly regarded for his breathtaking and eye catching photographs and works of art. Worm’s photography ranges from unique high fashion and fine art photos to product and commercial photography. His works are best known for their extreme use of color and overly exaggerated and dream-like themes. Worm’s photography can be found in numerous printed publications and throughout the internet.

He’s currently working with Rive Magazine (rivemagazine.com), an internet based fashion magazine. For more of Worm's photographs and artwork you can visit his website at: www.wormc.com or check out his myspace at: www.wormphotography.com

The Lord has risen for all to see How truly miraculous & wonderous is he There are those who wish not to believe Far too quick to cloud their minds with such doubt They must again realize all things you cannot see This is what faith is actually about He is the Lion & the Lamb Our savior His son He is the past & the future Jesus Christ is the One

by Crash Override

INDEX: Topics: Business:

Fun:

Why We Need a Working Class……..…74

Forever Nikki…………………………...80 Hot List…………………………………46 Just My Flavor………………………….26 Off to Ohio……………………………..95 Poker Night………………………….….93

Children: China Doll……………………………...90 Erica Is My Friend…………………..….96 First Day of School……………………..88 Grave Is Over…………………………..91 Michael Jackson Rocks………………...32 Off to Ohio……………………………..95 Phat Flick…………………………….…97 Poker Night………………………….….93 Science Project…………………………94 Writing Exercise #1…………………….92

Creative Writing: China Doll……………………………...90 First Day of School……………………..88 Grave Is Over…………………………..91 In the Moment………………………….50 Maleosuta……………………………....36 Science Project…………………………94 Writing Exercise #1…………………….92

Education: Check for Comprehension……………..40 Why We Need a Working Class……..…74

Family Life: Erica Is My Friend…………………..….96 Forever Nikki…………………………...80 Gotta Give a Shoutout……………….…73 It Takes a Village to Raise a Slacker…...15 Pent Up Rage………………………...…98 Seeking a Village……………………….51 Slow Down Baby……………………….16

Food: Angel Pillows…………………………..83 Short Bread…………………………..…83

Models: Diana Leyton……....6, 24, 48, 69, 81, 109 Reggie T………………..18, 35, 59, 78, 86 She is Choice………………..….............38 Vyper : Interview………….....…………62

Parenting: It Takes a Village to Raise a Slacker…...15 Pent Up Rage………………………...…98 Seeking a Village……………………….51 Slow Down Baby……………………….16

Poetry: Alive…………………………………....20 But Is She a Betty………………………19 CKOPOCTb…………………………....12 Diagnosis, Please……………………….61 Freedom’s Not Free…………………….55 Goodbye………………………………..43 I Rode the Bus to Pick Up My Benz..….13 Letter to Michael……………………….30 Love Is……………………………….…76 Pent Up Rage………………………...…98 The Iris……………………………..…..60 Those Irish Eyes………………………..68

Politics: Freedom’s Not Free…………………….55 Who Chooses to Pay for Freedom……...11 Why We Need a Working Class……..…74

Pop Culture: 3 Girls Would Be Great………………...70 Because he so loved the world………....33 His American Beauty - Farrah………….28 Hot List…………………………………46 I Love Him So Much…………………...34 Junior Phat Flick………….………….…97 Letter to Michael……………………….30 Michael Jackson Rocks………………...32 My Michael…………………………….29 Phat Flick……………………………….79 The Donald Stacks the Deck…………...41 The Tragic Loss of an Icon & a Legend..27 Truly Moved……………………………31 Vyper : Interview…………………….…62

Psychology: Diagnosis, Please……………………….61 The Joy of Cash………………………..84

Religion: He is the One………………………….103

Science: Chemical of the Month………………....85 Science Project…………………………94

Sports: The Donald Stacks the Deck…………...41 Vyper : Interview…………….…………62

WOW!: CKOPOCTb…………………………....12 Gotta Give a Shoutout……………….…73 I Use Parenthesis…………………….…71

From the pen of…

Acid Burn:

Princess:

Because he so loved the world………....33 Check for Comprehension……………...40 Chemical of the Month………………....85 Diagnosis, Please……………………….61 I Rode the Bus to Pick Up My Benz…...13 Phat Flick……………………………….79 Seeking a Village……………………….51 Why We Need a Working Class……..…74

Erica Is My Friend…………………..….96 First Day of School……………………..88 Grave Is Over…………………………..91 Michael Jackson Rocks………………...32 Phat Flick…………………………….…97 Science Project…………………………94

Crash & Burn:

3 Girls Would Be Great………………...70 Truly Moved……………………………31

Hot List…………………………………46 Interview: Vyper………………………..62 ‘She Is Choice’………………………....38

Crash Override: But Is She a Betty………………………19 CKOPOCTb…………………………....12 Forever Nikki…………………………...80 Gotta Give a Shoutout……………….…73 He is the One………………………….103 I Love Him So Much…………………...34 In the Moment………………………….50 Just My Flavor………………………….26 Pent Up Rage………………………...…98 Phat Flick……………………………….79 The Donald Stacks the Deck…………...41 The Iris……………………………..…..60 The Joy of Cash………………………..84 Those Irish Eyes………………………..68 The Tragic Loss of an Icon & a Legend..27

Fonkey Monkey: China Doll……………………………...90 Off to Ohio……………………………..95 Phat Flick…………………………….…97 Poker Night………………………….….93 Writing Exercise #1…………………….92

Poet: Expressions In Pastel…………………...20 Godzilla SuperBowl Promo…………...100 Goodbye………………………………..43 Letter to Michael……………………….30 Love Is……………………………….…76 Phat Flick……………………………….79 Wyclef………………………………….54

Reggie T.:

The Frosted Flake: Angel Pillows…………………………..83 His American Beauty - Farrah………….28 It Takes a Village to Raise a Slacker…...15 My Michael…………………………….29 Phat Flick……………………………….79 Short Bread…………………………..…83

Xicano 073: I Use Parenthesis…………………….…71 Maleosuta……………………………....36 Phat Flick……………………………….79 Slow Down Baby……………………….16

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