Let's Talk Truth

Hurricane Cheney

2011-09-10T20:42:00.004-04:00

After Hurricane Irene swept the East Coast leaving minimal damage but massive floods, residence were left to deal with reptiles, including snakes in their homes and backyards. Among those adversaries was former Vice President, Dick Cheney who apparently caught the Republicans without a sand bag to fend against his fierce tongue-lashing commentary.

Cheney released his biography this month title, The Life and Times of Dick Cheney. Within two days of its release, the political chronicle sparked more controversy than a Lady Gaga outfit. In his stormy, self-complimenting memoir, Cheney takes a stab at his Grand Old Party, lampooning everyone including his former partner in The-War-in-Iraq crime, G. W. Bush—who he previously had a [public] relationship dismantle with. Frankly, I am sure none of it comes as a surprise to the GOP, since Cheney in used to shooting friends in the neck.

In an ABC interview earlier this week, Cheney also took a stab at President Obama. He expressed skepticism in Obama’s confidence to steer America out of its current economic recession and added that Hillary Clinton is the most formidable candidate to succeed him.

The question is: Will Cheney’s attacks help steer the course of the 2012 Presidential election, or will it die quickly resulting in minimal damage just like Hurricane Irene?

Copyright © Denrique Preudhomme. All Rights Reserved.

My Top 5 Craziest Things on Trains

2011-07-08T13:15:00.002-04:00

When Owen Lift (played by Danny DeVito) got his guilt-ridden community college professor (played by Billy Crystal) to help him try to kill his overbearing, abusive mother in the 1987 movie, Throw Momma From The Train, I thought it was the craziest thing that ever happened on a train. But, Owen’s plot does not compare to the crazy things I have seen on trains.

Here are the Top 5 craziest things I have seen on trains:

5. A middle-aged man gets on the train and wipes an entire seat [clean] with a dingy rag before he sits down. Minutes later, he wipes the windows, rails, and just about every seat that became vacant.
Truth: Having a chronic case of OCD on public transportation must be tough, but using a dingy rag to clean is oxymoronic.

4. A tall slender woman dressed in Muslim attire, boards the train, remains standing and balances herself like a Japanese Ninja preparing to conquer his enemy as the train travels at a high speed through the tunnel.
Truth: If you’re going to impersonate someone, make sure your costume matches your act.

3. A young lady is reluctant to give up a seat she reserves for her carryout meal to a little old lady.
Truth: If I were that little old lady, that hussy would suffer from pocketbook blues!

2. A woman is apparently haunted by an evil ghost. She punches and kicks the ghost who is seeking refugee from her swift blows underneath the seats.
Truth: Her truth is sadly, stranger than fiction.

1. A man shamelessly masturbates with his bishop exposed in the palm of his hand.
Truth: That is beyond crazy. It is downright disgusting!

What are some of the craziest things you have seen on trains? Please, do share.

Copyright ® 2011 Denrique Preudhomme. All Rights Reserved.

Subway – Eat Fresh?

2011-03-14T21:11:00.002-04:00

I finally figured out a possible reason why Jared—Subway’s poster child for phenomenal weight loss—had reportedly lost a record 245 pounds in a short period of time. The answer [perhaps] lies in this mathematical equation. Contaminated food + an innocent food patron – a substantial amount of bodily fluid = food poisoning.

Last week, after eating a breakfast sandwich at Subway, I was sick for three [darn] days! Within minutes of eating the sandwich, I knew something was terribly wrong. First, I felt a knot in my stomach. Then, I felt bloated. Later, I became nauseous.

In 24 hours, as medically stated, I had all the symptoms of food poisoning. The foodborne illness had caused nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, headache, fever and ultimately a substantial weight loss.

If my mathematical equation is correct, then, more power to Mr. Jared, on his Subway sandwich secret weight loss. After all, you know what they say about results, no pain, no gain, right?

Nonetheless, I am a fitness fanatic who will continue to “eat fresh,” sadly, not at Subway. Well, at least not for a while.

Copyright© 2011 Denrique Preudhomme. All Rights Reserved.

Super Bowl XLV

2011-02-07T10:38:00.005-05:00

I have watched enough Super Bowl games to know a few things: Budweiser will deliver a testosterone satisfying commercial; the half time show will almost always be the topic of useless controversy [regardless of how spectacular the artist(s)]; and, the best team will emerge winners.

Green Bay, All the Way! was the slogan I adopted when the Green Bay Packers beat the Chicago Bears to win the National Football Conference (NFC). And, I pretty much stuck with that slogan when the Packers scored three touchdowns against the Pittsburgh Steelers in the first half of the Super Bowl XLV game.

By the forth quarter, defensively, the Steelers were no match for the Packers. Then, within the last two minutes of the game, it was clear that the Packers were on their way to becoming Super Bowl XLV champions! Could it be that the Steelers just didn’t bring their A game? Or, was the game control by a higher force?

Charged with two sexual assaults, Steelers’ quarterback, Ben Roethlisberger received a four game suspension, a slap on the wrist, and a media sweep-under-the-rug of two women’s traumatic and violating experience—after both charges were dropped.

I don’t know about you, but I’m a believer in a higher force. Sorry Roethlisberger, God don’t like ugly! Congratulations to the Green Bay Packers!

Copyright © 2011 Denrique Preudhomme. All Rights Reserved.

The N Word

2010-11-29T21:28:00.008-05:00

America, a land of many great things, historically, and presently, yet it seems to hold on to its dreadful history of segregation.

Last week, as I journeyed to work, I saw a black Chevy parked in the right lane of flowing traffic on the highly traveled Northwest Wisconsin Avenue in Tenleytown—a predominantly white neighborhood in Washington, DC. Apart from a traffic ticket affixed between the windshield and its wiper, the most noticeable upheaval was the word "Nigger," which was keyed at the side of the vehicle. I started to take a picture for the purpose of my journalism, but decided against it because of my refusal to subscribe to ignorance. I had even decided to not waste my writing ability reporting on this, but found the incident more of a satirical piece as it lingered on my mind.

Firstly, I wondered how was the author of the note inscribed on the vehicle able to determine the driver's ethnicity. That led me to believe that a "Nigger" is unmistakably a wrongdoer in the mind of a racist. It is perhaps a specific behavior or act, or, maybe anyone who drives a black Chevy. But, moreover, for that Tenleytown coward, a "Nigger" is seemingly, anyone who journeys through a predominantly white neighborhood and commits a violation or crime.

Yes! I call that John Hancock perpetrator a coward, because he and I both know that his racial disease could have resulted in a physical outbreak had he had the balls to reveal himself while committing the act. Frankly, I pity his ignorance, because that idiot actually misspelled the word. I happen to be kind, or rather, the least bit agitated by his senseless bigotry to actually correct his spelling in this article. He had in fact, left a "g" out of the word.

The irony is, with the evolution of educated, privileged and powerful Blacks in America, folks are now confused as to what the N Word really means. Is it Napa Village Blacks? Black folks who vacation to the historic Californian vineyards and hold equal or more knowledge on wines than their counterparts? Or, is it Nominated Blacks? People like Condoleezza Rice, Colin Powell and President Obama who set precedents for Blacks to aspire and achieve the highest and most prestigious offices? Perhaps it's News & Entertainment Moguls, in reference to Oprah Winfrey and filmmaker Tyler Perry. Or, maybe it's Nike Blacks: Tiger Woods, Michael Jordon and Kobe Bryant who all [at some point] secured the highest sports advertising endorsement.

With such powerful Black trendsetters, I could see how an insignificant Tenleytown racist would get a bit confused with his definition of the N Word. Frankly, it is oxymoronic to use a discriminatory word you cannot spell. Therefore, the joke is really on that Tenleytown "Nitwit!"

Copyright © 2010 Denrique Preudhomme. All Rights Reserved.

“Mad”-vertising Services

2010-06-26T10:51:00.006-04:00

Understandably, this economic recession has caused adverse effects on a number of small businesses. As consumer spending goes down, revenue for small business owners becomes unpredictable. Their expenses go up when inflation starts pinching their wallets. But, I question the savvy of small business owners who choose to resort to peculiar measures in order to stay afloat. Or, is this recession really that bad?

Last week, as I exited the Union Station metro in Washington, DC, I was approached by a middle-age gentleman who was unrelenting in his effort to give me a flyer. After subjecting to his persistence, I discovered that the flyer was a handwritten advertisement for a hair salon. Are you kiddin’ me? Or rather, was he kiddin’ me? In this age of technology, not only is that method of advertising obsolete, it is perceivably shady. In fact, that’s not advertising, that’s “Mad”-vertising. And, to add insult to injury, dude did not even have a business name or address on his carefully crafted, photocopied “Mad”-vertising piece. Who in their right mind would purchase services from a no-name company without a location?

Frankly, dude would probably fare better if he got himself a megaphone and a President Obama voiceover to advertise his business. But, as far as his Finger Waves and Jerry Curls services... good luck with finding someone in the year 2010 and beyond to rock that hairstyle.

All-in-all, I give him kudos for his endeavor. Any man brave enough to hand write an advertisement, make multiple copies, and distribute them on the street corner, is a man strong enough to survive this economic recession.

Copyright © 2010 Denrique Preudhomme. All Rights Reserved.

Is This A Clean Split For The Gores?

2010-06-06T23:20:00.023-04:00

The Gores shocking announcement of a marital split came as no surprise to me. Not that I have any inside scoop about the couple’s private life, but, given this economic recession, marriages seem to be falling apart faster than a plummeting stock.

After 40 years of marriage, two terms as Vice President, a Democratic presidential nomination that failed to George W. Bush, an Oscar for his documentary An Inconvenient Truth, a Grammy for Best Spoken Word Album and a Nobel Peace Prize, Al Gore has probably decided that he has racked up a sizable amount of accomplishments—enough to kick old Tipper to the curb. What’s next for Al Gore; a Tony, an Emmy, or a star on Hollywood Walk of Fame? Perhaps, given his expertise on global warming, the Environmental Protection Agency should solicit his advice on how to control the oil spill in the Gulf, instead of seeking filmmaker, James Cameron’s advice. [1]

According to the Associated Press, the Gores’ split was mutual with no indications of extra marital affairs. Incidentally, that [in itself] is “An Inconvenient Truth,” considering, extra marital affairs seem to be status quo among politicians. It would not surprise me one bit if Al is spotted with a hot blonde in the next couple of weeks.

As for Tipper, she might just do a remix of Beyonce’s R&B hit, Single Ladies, “If you like it then you gotta put a ring,” as she celebrates her split from her overachieving husband.

Copyright © 2010 Denrique Preudhomme. All Rights Reserved.

[1] Apparently, Cameron believes that his underwater filming expertise can bring about a solution where environmental scientists have failed. Titanic was brilliant, but that ship has sailed.

No Anger Zone For Naomi Campbell

2010-05-11T21:43:00.004-04:00

Things came to a screeching halt when supermodel Naomi Campbell shed floods of tears on The Oprah Winfrey Show. The Queen of Talk was as curious as I am to find out just why this runway diva has such a history with bad temper.

In 2000, Campbell pleaded guilty to a 1998 assault on her then assistant. She had allegedly assaulted her assistant with a telephone in a hotel room and threatened to throw her out a moving Peugeot. In 2005, Campbell allegedly slapped another assistant and beat her in the head with a jewel-encrusted BlackBerry phone. That same year, she allegedly punched Italian actress Yvonne Scio in the face at a hotel in Rome when she discovered that Scio had worn the same dress as her. In 2006, Campbell’s former housekeeper came forward accusing Campbell of being a “violent super-bigot.” In 2007, Campbell pleaded guilty to a charge of reckless assault against another housekeeper. On April 3, 2008, Campbell was arrested in London Heathrow Airport on suspicion of assaulting a police officer. On March 2, 2010, a limousine driver filed a report with the New York City Police Department claiming that Campbell had slapped and punched him then fled the scene.

As if Campbell’s history of violence wasn’t enough, recently, in a television interview with ABC News she refused to respond to a question about a discussion she had with Mia Farrow regarding a large uncut “Blood Diamond” she received as a gift from Liberian warlord Charles Taylor. Campbell stormed out of the interview and slugged a TV camera on her way out.

Arrests, fines, court orders, police reports and community service has seemingly not stopped this catwalk diva from assaults, disorderly conduct, verbal abuse and threatening behavior. So, what exactly causes Naomi Campbell to act-out? A tearful Campbell told Oprah that her lingering resentment toward her father for abandoning her as a child is the reason for her temper. Assuming that I believe her explanation, why is it that Ms. Campbell seems to have temper tantrums only with people of service? Could it be that she believes that her diva [celebrity woman with outstanding talent] status entitles her to disrespect people who serve her?

Campbell’s parade of tears offered zero indication that she is in any way responsible or sorry for her repulsive behavior. She believes that a violation of trust, by people who are close to her, is grounds to unleash her “Bad Girl” persona. In other words, she’s the victim and everyone else, her abusers.

Ironically, Campbell is a role model to millions of young women, but to quote reggae singer Shabba Ranks, a “pretty face and bad character,” does not set a good example for impressionable girls.

Whether Campbell’s barrage of tears or her confusion about her past—which leads to her anger—will actually change anything, is left to be seen. However, one thing is certain, Campbell’s housekeeper must be darn happy that she signed Oprah’s No Phone Zone.

Copyright © 2010 Denrique Preudhomme. All Right Reserved.

Cougar Town

2010-04-25T12:28:00.007-04:00

Recently, I received an e-mail from a young man [I do not know] bearing a bunch of handsome compliments. He was very polite and quite intrigued by the fact that I am 21 years his senior.

As a business owner, I try to respond to each e-mail I receive, and since I offer a wide range of writing services, it is not uncommon for a 22 year old to contact me. College essays are the most popular request for service amount that age group and the demand for an impossible turnaround time seem to be the same. However, this young man was neither requesting my service nor demanding my time. He was straight up propositioning me to go to Cougar Town.

A cougar is a mountain lion, a member of the felidae family and a capable stalk-and-ambush predator. He pursues a wide variety of prey and is very territorial. Ironically, an older woman who hunts for much younger and energetic men is commonly referred to as a cougar. It does not matter whether the youngster pursued her or she pursued him, she gets hit with the title and her reality becomes the world she lives in—Cougar Town.

I generally try to not be the hand that rocks the cradle, but admittedly, it is flattering to be sought after by a younger man. I cannot imagine what I would have in common with a man old enough to be my son. Play Station and Xbox do not tickle my fancy and I doubt whether Forbes Magazine or CNN would tickle his.

“I’ve always been attracted to older women,” he admits.
“What’s wrong with girls your age?” I asked.
“They are too uncertain,” he responded.

I wanted to tell him that uncertainty is a trait in women. Instead, I pointed out the difference between older and younger women as it relates to uncertainties. Younger women are uncertain because they believe they have time to become certain. Older women have already explored all of their uncertainties and are certain they have past that stage—which is exactly why I am trying to avoid Cougar Town.

Frankly, a polite and unrelenting youngster is enough temptation to make me want to leap into the past and pull out my bag of Cougar tricks, but I am too afraid to face the consequences in the future.

That’s right. Noooo sir! I am staying miles away from Cougar Town. I will get my fresh spinach and meats uptown. I am available for mentorship only. Bring your birth certificate to sign up. Oh, and a cell phone number… just in case I change my mind.

Copyright © 2010 Denrique Preudhomme. All Rights Reserved.

In photo: Supermodel Janice Dicksinson who, according to TMZ, is said to have a cougar dating show in the works.

A Virtual Drink To Fight This Recession

2010-03-27T17:02:00.006-04:00

With the national unemployment rate still at an alarming 9.7%, finances remains the core reason a number of stressed-out folks are having one too many social drinks.

In the past year, I cannot begin to tell you how many times someone has invited me out for a drink to discuss their financial woes. Lay offs, foreclosure, credit crisis, bankruptcy and more seem to be the ingredients for a stiff drink.

I have always been a social drinker, but with this economic recession, I can see how a social drinker could easily become a social drunk! Believe me when I say, I literally cannot afford to become a social drunk. In fact, I encourage folks to call me [mobile to mobile] using my Anytime Mobile minutes to discuss their problems. This way, I can avoid the financial backlash of too many social drinks.

Actually, I recommend virtual drinks. A Mojito that’s made in Cuba, but banned from America, a Cosmopolitan that’s ethnically restricting, a Long Island Ice—with only the Tea, and a Tom “Who the heck is he?” Collins. With virtual drinks, who needs alcohol to add to their financial problems? Besides, inebriation is useless in the fight for survival. A sober head is perhaps the best way to fight this recession!

The reality of this recession has wreaked so much havoc throughout the nation more and more Americans are faced with frustration, depression, divorce, health problems and sadly, even suicide—as a result.

I am definitely not going to contribute to people’s financial woes by accepting their offers to drink. Folks just need to take me off their list of people to call for a drink. I don’t care if they “unfriend” me, “unskype” me, or “untweet” me, as long as I am off their alcohol list. However, my shoulders are always available to lean on. Don’t hesitate to call. I’ll be right here sipping on a White USSR, a virtual White Russian that does not exist.

Copyright © 2010 Denrique Preudhomme. All Rights Reserved.

Are You On A Path To Create Your Best Life Ever?

2010-03-03T21:09:00.004-05:00

Yesterday I received an email from my girlfriend, Natasha Haughton-Allrich, a Life and Business Success Coach, Author and owner of Vision Manifest.com. Natasha’s email on What is the Fastest Path to Create Your Best Life in 2010? resonated with me. It was at that moment I realized that I had began to create my best life for 2010 and beyond.

For the past eight months, I had somewhat lost sight of living my best life. I had been miserable and denied it because I was determined to not let a decision I made fail. However, learning to live with a bad decision is a compromise no one should endure.

I am a believer in taking risks. I believe that risk is important for growth. But, in June 2009, when I packed up my Capitol Hill, DC home and moved to Austin, TX, it was a huge risk that became unfulfilling.

A lack of professional connections and affinity groups had completely stifled me. I had begun to feel disconnected from civilization—a nonconforming realization I had not experienced in my entire life. My heart began to yearn for the comfort of familiarity. My inner peace felt interrupted and my spirits in disarray. That was when I knew my move to Austin had run its course.

Finally, [last weekend] I purchased a one-way ticket back to Washington, DC! My mind was at peace the second I boarded the aircraft and my heart felt at ease the minute I landed. It was then that I began my journey to create my best life once again and for always.

Have you begun to create your best life ever? Or, are you on a path to create it? Go head, examine yourself. If you find that you are wondering about a decision you made, it is probably not the best decision for you. If you feel fulfilled about it, then you have just created a path to begin living your best life ever!

Copyright © 2010 Denrique Preudhomme. All Rights Reserved.

Are We Who Society Says We Are?

2010-02-19T00:21:00.013-05:00

A few weeks ago, I spoke with a friend who had been laid off from her executive job of over 10 years. After a 7-month job search, with no possible foresight of employment, her bills began to pile up. Sadly, she lost her beautiful home, her self-worth and her courage to go on.

I was completely shocked to learn of [let’s call her] Debbie’s situations. I felt like I had been a horrible friend. She had retreated from a terrible ordeal and I did not know a thing until almost a year later. “Why didn’t you tell me?” was my first question to Debbie. A fear of judgment had prevented Debbie from revealing her tribulations, which far too often are seen as failures.

We live in a capitalist society, a nation where its “dream” (the American dream) means acquiring material wealth, rather than patriotism or love for our fellow men. We are measured by our pockets instead of our morals and branded by our professional affiliations instead of our abilities. We place high emphasis on social hierarchy, and whether we acknowledge that we are slaves to its bigotry, it is unfortunately ingrained in our society.

“What do you do?” is often the qualifying question of social acceptance or rejection. “Where do you work?” is the question contingent upon your response to “What do you do?” In the world of social hierarchy, if someone is impressed by what you do, they would engage you in further conversation. This is normally a sign of social acceptance. However, if “Where do you work?” does not immediately follow “What do you do?” it is more than likely a sign of social rejection.

I see no reason to reveal my career status to inquirers whom I have no business relations with, especially if “What do you do?” is one of the first three questions they ask. In fact, I often eliminate the need for further questions with a response that is weird or lower than their expectations. I have been a communicator for planet Mars, a virtual mermaid, an icicle artist, a wilderness linguist and anything weird enough to get people to quit trying to socially classify me.

Does our career really matter when we are standing in line at the box office to purchase a ticket to see Cat on A Hot Tin Roof, hailing a cab, out jogging, at the grocery store, at the mall buying a pair of shoe or on vacation? Should our careers matter if we became unemployed (through no fault of our own), the victim of a repossessed car or foreclosure? I pity the man who thinks his career is superior to humanity. For it is because of humanity he is blessed with a career. A successful businessman needs customers and clients. He is nothing without them.

Perhaps my friend Debbie would not have felt so compelled to keep her ordeal from people who care if society did not define us by “What do you do?” and “Where do you work?”

America had classified Debbie as unemployed, which [even in this wretched economic recession] unfairly translates to unequal, useless, powerless and worthless. Instead, I commend Debbie for her remarkable resilience. One year has passed and she is still standing! She has downsized, found the courage to go on, as well as, temporary employment which enables her to pay her bills.

To me, Debbie epitomizes power and spiritual wealth. Her strength to move on and her faith despite it all is a testimony of spiritual wealth. I am so proud of Debbie for what she has accomplished. It is a mark of distinction beyond any social hierarchy and material wealth, which rightfully requires two questions: “What did you do?” and “How did you do it?”

Copyright © 2010 Denrique Preudhomme. All Rights Reserved.

The Democrats In The Red!

2010-01-20T11:57:00.004-05:00

After 46 years of Democratic representation in the U.S. Senate, the state of Massachusetts lost its seat to Republican candidate Scott Brown in Tuesday’s special elections. Brown clenched a 52 percent win over Democratic candidate, Massachusetts Attorney General Martha Coakley, creating a huge upset for the Democrats. Does this win signify a 2012 timeline for the Obama administration? Or, is this an indication of blatant disapproval for President Obama’s health care bill?

Brown’s main campaign agenda for the U.S. Senate seat was to vote against the Democrats health care bill, and now that the Democrats have lost their filibuster, it may take the spirit of Ted Kennedy to help them push anything through the Senate. Then again, Teddy might roll over in his grave just to avoid watching this unforeseeable mishap.

I could imagine Democrats are in a quandary. They are probably wondering whether their voices would be lost on Capitol Hill or had Coakley simply campaigned throughout the holiday season—instead of taking a vacation—whether the outcome would have been favorable for them. Incidentally, Coakley should have taken a page from Hillary Clinton’s book. She needed to be available 24/7 even if it meant taking a call at 3 O’clock in the morning.

Frankly, the timing for a Democratic shake-up could not be more impeccable. Perhaps, now they will seek a “Game Change” and stop worrying about who’s “light-skinned” or who does not use a “Negro dialect.”

Congress is too easily distracted by matters of zero relevance. The War in Iraq, the economic crisis, and health care reform have all taken a backseat to impish dynamics.

What’s next for the Democrats? Perhaps Justice Sotomayor can offer some unbiased advice, since “a wise Latina woman, with the richness of her experience, would more often than not reach a better conclusion than a white male who hasn't lived that life.”

Copyright © 2010 Denrique Preudhomme. All Rights Reserved.

The Number 9

2009-12-21T10:39:00.005-05:00

In the news this week, I read about a young man who was fired from Fidelity Investments in Westlake, Texas, due to his involvement in a Fantasy Football Pool with 9 other employees. I sympathize with anyone who loses their job in this recession, but from that story, I am led to believe that the number 9 is the antonym of lucky 7.

During his race for the White House, Senator John McCain chose former governor Sarah Palin as his vice presidential running mate. Palin hailed from Alaska, the 49th State to be entered into the union. It seems like McCain had unforeseeably sealed his doom.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ report on unemployment as of December 10, 2009 is 9.4 percent. A staggering rate since the early 90s! It is uncertain whether this rate will decline, hold steady or increase by next month. Optimistically, a decline in the New Year will signal an economic recovery.

Superstitiously, a cat is believed to have 9 lives. Cats land on all four paws, which absorb the impact when landing on the ground. Additionally, they bend their legs when they land, which cushions the impact. So, you can imagine a cat’s dismay, when he finds himself falling from a tall building and remembers that he has fallen 9 times before? This brings me to his feline relative, Tiger Woods.

9 mistresses and a very angry wife, perhaps sets precedent for the most women revealed in a pro-athlete sex scandal. No wonder Tiger’s wife “allegedly” chased him with a 9 iron. According to the Associate Press, a divorce is 100 percent on, and a five-million-dollar-mistress#1-payoff is in full effect.

So, unless you’re the illusionist and endurance artist David Blaine, who probably has more lives than a cat, it is safe to suggest avoiding the number 9 for the remaining 9 days in 2009.

Copyright © 2009 Denrique Preudhomme. All Rights Reserved.

Passenger 15C: Discrimination Aboard

2009-12-18T10:45:00.004-05:00

In this-day-and-age, one would think that folks, who work for huge corporations, read the memo on discrimination, especially knowing that their actions could cause legal ramifications for their employers—trigging law suits that could cost them their jobs. Perhaps the Delta Airlines’ Flight Attendant on Flight DL 1700 to Atlanta, GA did not get that memo.

Flight DL 1700 at 6:45 a.m. out of Austin, TX, had me in route to Washington, DC connecting in Atlanta, GA. During the flight, I pulled my meal tray down intending to have a complimentary beverage. To my dismay, the Flight Attendant asked the gentleman seated beside me if he would like to have a beverage, then, she completely ignored me and asked the passengers seated adjacent to me.

Initially, I gave her the benefit of the doubt, since a simple inquire could result in a reputation of “loud and tumultuous behavior.” I waited while she took their orders, but then, I cogitated. I recalled her actions when she tuned away quickly to avoid taking my order. At that moment, I was certain I had become the victim of discrimination; ironically, having been one of two passengers [I noticed] of African descent aboard the aircraft (the other was seated in First Class).

As the Flight Attendant pushed her snack/beverage cart passed me, she confirmed her actions—which prompted me to declare mine!

I refuse to be a victim of discrimination aboard Delta Airlines or any other airlines! I travel nationally and internationally frequently throughout each year, and I have never been subjected to such utter and blatant disrespect/discrimination in the history of my travels.

It is unfortunate to discount an entire company due to one person’s foolish actions. However, my decision is clear! I will not use Delta Airlines for future travels, unless I am amicably compensated for my disparaging experience!1

Delta Airlines, you have just been ejected! Passenger 15C is still aboard, but with another airline.

Copyright© 2009 Denrique Preudhomme. All Rights Reserved.

1 Delta Airlines were officially notified of my travel experience. This matter is pending.

It's A Tiger

2009-12-13T00:17:00.013-05:00

Yesterday, while getting the mail, I ran into one of my neighbors. She was walking her miniature husky that was clad in the cutest holiday dog’s sweater.

“Aw, how cute,” I said, acknowledging the pooch after I said hello to her. “I bet he loves showing off his cute little sweater,” I added.

“Yes,” my neighbor responded. “She was very anxious to get out today.”

I chuckled after I said, “Oops” in my mind.

We are such creatures of habit. My first sight of a cat, I think it’s a girl, and a dog, naturally I think it’s a boy—perhaps because an unfaithful man is commonly referred to as “a dog.” But, in light of the Tiger Woods’ nine-mistress sex scandal, “a dog” has taken on a whole new meaning. A lying, cheating man is now simply “a tiger.”

* * * *

“A tiger” is a member of the felidae family, the largest of four “big cats.” He is considered an apex predator to women and critically classified as endangered. Aside from his bulk and power, his most recognizable feature, which often goes unnoticed by most women, is his dark vertical stripes that overlay near-white to reddish-orange fur, fading in his underpart. His fur is perhaps the most deceptive covering. His speed is referred to as lightning, except when being chased by a nine iron. An angry woman upstages all of “a tiger’s” ability to grovel or escape.

There are way too many tigers running loose. Raw meats and sleeping pills are simply too old-fashioned to catch these predators. Cell phones and text messages have proven to be the savviest way to snare these wily beasts.

This holiday season, if you get a note asking you to, “send me something very naughty,” don’t be fooled. It is not a bird or a plane, and it is certainly not Santa.

It’s a tiger with really big golf balls!

Copyright © 2009 Denrique Preudhomme. All rights reserved.

Fitness: A Mental and Spiritual Goal

2009-11-14T12:55:00.011-05:00

My fitness goals have always been more mental and spiritual, than they have been physical. I accomplish them, in part, by eating healthy and challenging myself to deal with stressful situations in a peaceful fashion. I believe that adversities are blessings in disguise and that our triumphs from them rely hugely on our abilities to endure them. I believe that without faith, setting goals are irrelevant, and that faith requires a divine belief in something that is greater than us.

I used to be resistant to gym memberships. The thought of sweaty men grunting in tight shirts and spandex shorts, while lifting a ton of steel, was a problem. I was certain it would be a huge distraction. I imagined myself spending hours at the gym and getting sore eyes instead of sore muscles. But, in 2002, I decided to confront my distraction when a girlfriend of mine twisted my arm into joining a gym.

Incidentally, I discovered that my ability to focus on fitness superseded my spandex distraction. Within two weeks, my one hour a day, four days a week fitness regimen became a dedication, and my fitness obsession leveraged between physically feeling good and literally looking like South African track star Caster Semenya—without the extra organ.

Throughout the years, I have held membership with different fitness clubs: The YWCA, Vida Fitness, Fitness First and Bally Total Fitness. To this day, I continue to maintain a gym membership, but with another fitness club. My gym transitions were due to viable locations and not to ill experiences.

At age 43, physical fitness helps me to focus mentally and spiritually. In fact, I often find solace from stressful situations by going to the gym. I do not aspire to look like Angela Bassett in the movie What’s Love Got to Do with it?, nor do I hope to gain legs like the legendary Tina Turner. I only aspire to be the best me—a journey that begins with preparation.

As I travel through my journey, I have come to embrace what is now my personal motto: “I never worry about tomorrow. I would rather prepare myself for it.”

Copyright © 2009 Denrique Preudhomme. All Rights Reserved.

Predict Me A Million

2009-11-07T18:25:00.005-05:00

At 6: 00 a.m. this morning, I received a text message. It read: “God told me to tell you that everything you’re going through is taken care of. If you believe in him send this to 8 people, and in 53 seconds watch who calls.”

First, I began to wonder, why didn’t God tell me this when I spoke to him before I retired to bed last night? I thought him and I were cool since I confessed to having [some] help with one of my high school Math assignments. Well, kind of like A LOT of help.

Then, I wondered about the 2 pieces of fried chicken I had for lunch yesterday. I guess I should relinquish my fear of a cardiac arrest, because according to the text message, God has somehow removed the lethal level of cholesterol saturated in one piece of fried chicken far less two pieces—especially since I had no business eating it.

Next, I thought about the lottery ticket I purchased yesterday. Perhaps this means I will win the lottery and 53 seconds thereafter, 8 people are going to call and ask for money.

Frankly, that text message was more predictable than it was prophetic. In fact, I almost called the sender and asked, “Why in the world did you send me this ‘nonsense’ at the crack of dawn?” That would have been her “watch who calls” moment.

Don’t get me wrong. I am not saying that a belief in God is “nonsense,” but rather, emails and text messages presenting themselves as God certainly are nonsensical. My faith is in God, not in man’s ability to manipulate destiny by creating a series of messages dictating what I should or should not do.

Word of advice to the creators and couriers of these so-called prophetic emails and text messages, DO NOT send them to me! I will only delete them. I am very averse to most expressions containing the word “chain:” chain-smoking, chain-reaction, chain-gang, for example. Chain-letters are absolute HELL NO’s! So, do me a favor. If you’re going to send me a prediction, predict me something good. If fact, why don’t you predict me a million from 8 people in 53 seconds, would ya?

Copyright© 2009 Denrique Preudhomme. All Rights Reserved.

The Three O’Clock Taboo

2009-10-07T12:00:00.015-04:00

Have you noticed that three o’clock in the morning seems to be the most taboo time on earth? Other than Secretary of State Hillary Clinton’s commercial about the red phone ringing at 3 a.m. during her presidential campaign in 2008 (which was clearly designed to indicated her 24/7 availability), anything that happens remotely close to three o’clock in the morning is a definite no-no! And, anything that happens after midnight automatically translates to the abominable three o’clock taboo.

Here are a few examples of the three o’clock taboo:

According to most women, a cheating husband [no matter the hour] “brought his ass home at three o’clock in the morning!”

A ringing telephone is the most annoying at three o’clock in the morning.

An infant’s playful nocturnal coo translates to an adult’s weary night, and subsequently the three o’clock taboo. “He won’t sleep. He plays until three o’clock in the morning.”

A high school senior’s breech of midnight curfew always results in parents’ hysteria and inaccurate count of time. “Is he crazy? He came home at three o’clock this morning!”

Insomnia means, being up until three o’clock in the morning or waking up at three o’clock in the morning and staying awake until 6 a.m.

A crime is seemingly the most difficult to grasp when it happens at, “three o’clock in the morning, they robbed that poor little old lady?”

Folks seem to break-up at three o’clock in the morning, and then, they call you crying.

I don’t know about you, but most nights, I get to bed at three o’clock in the morning, and on Friday nights I dread my sleep interruption, due to my neighbor’s loud obsession with Betty Wright’s Clean-Up Woman at three o’clock in the morning. What’s your three o’clock taboo? Does it beat mine?

America vs. Health Care

2009-08-23T15:52:00.014-04:00

Could someone tell me exactly why health care reform is causing such a rift at town-hall meetings across the U.S.?

When I first saw the rambunctiousness on CNN, I was waiting for someone to yell, “Get your salmon, trout and tilapia right here!” I thought it was a scene from a local fish market and I wondered whether the recession had gotten so bad that people are now forced to fight over food.

If folks are that worked-up about health care, they should simply form an activist group and lead a campaign to Capitol Hill. One man’s plea will never be heard in a room filled with litigious advocates.

Even the Democrats are in a divisive heat over health care reform. Blue Dog Democrats are furious about a public option for health care. They believe it’s the first step toward a government takeover of health care. And, with President Obama hinting a renege on the public health option, it doesn’t make things any better for those who are in support of it.

Verbal battles will not bring a solution to health care. In fact, it will only cause it to remain the same. A proposal + too many naysayers = nothing.

In 1993, the Clinton Administration proposed a health care package closely associated with then First Lady, Secretary of State Hillary Clinton. Its goal was to provide universal health care for all Americans. The plan was to enforce a mandate for employers to provide health insurance to all of their employees using competitive but regulated health care organizations. Democrats failed to unite over the plan and created competing plans of their own. As a result, the final bill was declared dead.

If history does repeat itself, we probably don’t need a soothsayer to tell us the fate of Obama’s health care reform plan. Sadly, millions of Americans are literally dying because they cannot afford health care. Millions are praying for affordable health care and millions are hoping they don’t get sick because they don’t have health care.

Perhaps Congress has not yet figured out that together we’re fighting, dying, praying and hoping for a solution to health care. We need just one. One that works!

What Really Pissed Hillary Clinton Off

2009-08-13T16:36:00.006-04:00

Where the heck was Officer Sgt. Crowley when Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton was caught exhibiting “Loud and tumultuous behavior” in the Democratic Republic of Congo? She’s lucky she didn’t get arrested for finally being exasperated about the media’s constant stabs to diminish her, because she’s a woman.

According to the Associate Press, Clinton’s testy response came following a question lost in translation from a Congolese university student at a town-hall meeting in Congo on Monday (August 10). “Wait. You want me to tell you what my husband thinks?” She asked, bluntly. “My husband is not the Secretary of State, I am,” she affirmed.

In other words: Don’t get it twisted! Just because her husband, former President Bill Clinton succeeded in a humanitarian mission in North Korea—securing the release of two American journalists who had been arrested and were serving 12-year sentences—does not mean her title is relinquished. Like Bill, Hillary is quite capable of succeeding at any diplomatic mission. Although, I doubt Bill could out-dance those Kenyans the way she did when she gyrated almost to the ground.

I don’t blame the woman one bit for snapping. To heck with a façade for the media, she’s pissed that America chose to undermine her capability by choosing her husband to undertake a diplomatic mission. Isn’t that the duty of a Secretary of State? They’re lucky she didn’t literally put a million cracks in their ceilings.

Frankly, the lesson here is simple; don’t ask a woman anything about what her husband thinks while she’s sitting at work. Who cares what he thinks?? She’s the one who’s sitting there.

Nonetheless, like her race for the White House, I am sure Hillary has put this incident behind her and is focused on her mission in Africa, mainly her efforts to urge Congo to put a stop to an epidemic of sexual violence in their nation.

Copyright © 2009 Denrique Preudhomme

Who’s Wearing The Pantsuit Now?

2009-08-07T09:20:00.003-04:00

Tuesday afternoon I tuned in to CNN while sipping a cup of tea by Teastro™. My mother always says, “no news, is good news,” but for me, no news is bad news and “breaking news” always triggers my proverbial two-cents.

42nd President, Bill Clinton is being praised for undertaking a mission which led to the release of two American journalists who were captured in North Korea and serving 12-year prison sentences. According to CNN, the girls were released on Tuesday (August 4) after Clinton met with North Korea’s leader, Kim Jong II during an unannounced visit to North Korea.

What does Clinton’s wife, Secretary of State Hillary Clinton thinks about all of this? I bet she’s wondering who’s really wearing the pantsuit in the Obama Administration. Moreover, why did they choose Bill to undertake a mission that involved young women?

Bill probably spent all night after his return from North Korea trying to convince Hillary that he, “did not have sexual relations with,” those two women. Then again, at age 62, Billy boy must be flattered to have two women indebted to him without the use of Viagra.

Unlike the wives of former Gov. James McGreevey and Sen. Larry Craig, Hillary has proven that she will not stand at Bill’s side during a press conference of admission. One more indiscretion and he’ll be Living History! He’s lucky she didn’t throw all his shit on the front lawn of the White House after the Lewinsky scandal.

Nonetheless, for the Clinton’s sake, I hope that it was nothing but diplomacy that led Bill Clinton to North Korea. I hope that his astuteness in this matter opens the door to North Korea resuming six-party talks regarding their nuclear weapons program which could lead to a de-nuclearization policy and free us from being prisoners of fear.

Copyright © 2009 Denrique Preudhomme

Note: Teastro ™ is a tea company based in Bowie, MD. The names of its teas were inspired by the owner’s travels to Trinidad & Tobago. My personal favorite is Savannah Park (a Honey-bush tea).

Why Katherine Jackson Needs To Reconsider Custody

2009-08-01T14:23:00.013-04:00

As the investigation into the sudden death of Pop icon, Michael Jackson continues, Debbie Rowe, ex-wife of Jackson is determined to contest Jackson’s will regarding his decision to give his mother Katherine Jackson custody of his children.

If I were Katherine, I would back down and let Rowe have those kids for the following reasons:

At her age, it’s a bugger-bear to raise kids;
Joe is going to put those kids through hell, trying to reinvent a Jackson 5;
Officer, Crowley will respond to a domestic abuse call and arrest Joe for beating White kids;
Store merchants will call security regarding a Black woman following some rich White kids around;
Al Sharpton will follow her around;
Imitation of Life III (A New Jacksons Story) may prevail;
Prince Michael is likely to gradually tan himself and have multiple plastic surgeries until he begins to look like the Michael Jackson we all knew from Gary, Indiana.
The Octo Mom will have three more kids;
The State of California is likely to file for Chapter 11 if the Octo Mom has anymore kids. The State cannot afford another expense. They’re broke;
A civil rights suit will be slapped on The State of California for refusing to support the Octo Mom;
The suit will likely trigger a supreme court hearing that Justice Sotomayor will be very compassionate toward, since she believes that, “A wise Latina woman, with the richness of her experience, would more often than not reach a better conclusion than a white male who hasn't lived that life.”;
The media will urge President Obama to intervene and he’ll gladly try and resolve the issue over a beer;
And, well, The Jackson’s don’t need another reason to have the media all in their business.

Then again, if Katherine could raise nine children (Rebbie, Jackie, Tito, Jermaine, LaToya, Marlon, Michael, Randy and Janet), endure constant media hassle due to their success and still look damn good at age 79, three more kids wouldn’t hurt her. Now that’s the difference between a pop star mom and a pit-bull.

Copyright © 2009 Denrique Preudhomme

Photo: Mazur/MJ Memorial via Getty

A Darker Shade of Cambridge for Professor Gates

2009-07-23T12:09:00.004-04:00

Lawd! When Al Sharpton gets his hands on this, it is likely to trigger a Black In America 3.

Henry Louis Gates, Jr., national black scholar and Harvard professor was arrested on Thursday afternoon (July 16) upon entering his home after having trouble unlocking his door.

According to the Cambridge police officer who arrested Gates, his investigation into a break-in resulted in an arrest for disorderly conduct after Gates exhibited “loud and tumultuous behavior.” What the heck did he expect? I don’t know anyone who wouldn’t be irate after a police officer repeatedly interrogated them for struggling to unlock their door, far less a brotha who lives in a white neighborhood.

If I were Gates, I’d lobby Congress to pass a bill that would support “loud and tumultuous behavior” when being racially profiled. I’d tell Congress they need to even the playing-field between innocent black men and big bad wolves who come along and huff, and puff, and then pull the race card.

According to a recent report by the Federal Reserve, national black wealth remains lower than that of white wealth, and is declining due to the recession. Therefore, black folks should legally be entitled to “loud and tumultuous behavior” when asked unnecessary questions about their assets.

Perhaps Gates’ incident would trigger a Back-up-Off-A-Brotha Law, a law which would require law enforcement to respect brothas who earn luxury vehicles, picket fence homes and initials behind their names.

Palin-Faux Pas

2009-07-16T15:56:00.004-04:00

Huh? Is Sarah Palin subtly announcing a switch in political party? According to the Washington Times, Palin said, “I will go around the country on behalf of candidates who believe in the right things, regardless of their party label or affiliation.” That’s definitely a “Palin-faux-pas!” Another misguided decision or action made by Sarah Palin which always results in disaster.

On July 3, 2009 when Palin announced that she was stepping down as governor of Alaska because she did not want to stay in office as a lame duck, I wasn’t the least bit surprised by her decision far less her admission. What do you expect from a woman who has repeatedly embarrassed herself due to her lack of knowledge in basically everything, down to the office she held?

Frankly, I’d like to blame the “Palin-faux pas” all on Sen. John McCain. Had McCain not chosen her as his vice presidential candidate we would not know that hockey mom exists! We would not know of her pit-bull with lipstick alter ego, nor would we know that she thought he was “Mavericky.” But, when I think about her interview with Katie Couric, I can’t blame McCain at all. That was all Palin. She shot herself in the foot!

I must admit. I was impressed by her vice presidential candidate speech at the GOP convention in Minnesota when she delivered her infamous, “difference between a hockey mom and a pit bull,” line. Hey, I’m a feminist, so, naturally I’m impressed by any woman who challenges her testosterone counterpart, but not by one who can’t produce names of two news magazines she reads.

It’s rumored that Palin will run for President in 2012. Given her track record, it would be easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for Palin to become President. She might need to save that campaign money for Neiman Marcus or Nordstrom. A 2012 spring collection may feature all her favorites in The House of Palin-Faux Pas.

Copyright © 2009 Denrique Preudhomme

Anyone For A Shark & Bake or A Bake & Shark?

2009-06-14T20:33:00.007-04:00

On my most recent visit to Trinidad a close friend of mine asked me to enjoy a Shark n’ Bake for him. I have personally never had a Shark n’ Bake, although I am a native of Trinidad, but Shark n’ Bake has seemingly become one of our national dishes over the years. A piece of lightly battered fried Shark between a slice of pitta-like bread is what foreigners call a Shark n' Bake, but Trinidadians call a Bake n’ Shark.

You see, we Trinidadians are very meticulous about our presentation of food. Shark n’ Bake could mean a piece of fried Shark and a piece of Bake lying beside each other on a plate. No, that is not the way we want to represent Bake n’ Shark, especially since it has been inducted into our national dish hall of fame. The Bake takes precedence over anything it is served with: Bake n’ Saltfish; Bake n’ Smoke-herring; and, even Bake n’ Cheese. Whatever it is served with it has to be in the form of a sandwich to confirm its legitimacy.

Trinidadians will tell you, if you want to taste a good Bake n’ Shark, go to the Queen’s Park Savannah [it is a huge circle] in Port-of-Spain or Maracas Bay Beach on the Northern range and you are sure to find the best Bake n’ Shark with some fresh coconut water to wash it down.

I know it seems uncanny, if not hypocritical to be an activist for Bake n’ Shark when I have never had the bloody thing myself, but, I simply never ate fish when I lived in Trinidad. Nonetheless, I plan on traveling to the Queen’s Park Savannah on my next visit to Trinidad, and by golly, or rather, by the hook or by the crook—as we say in Trinidad—I am going to enjoy a Bake n’ Shark to legitimize my activism for the cause!

Anyone for a Bake n’ Shark?

Note: In June 2009, I took a trip to the Queen’s Park Savannah for some fresh coconut water. I got there too early for a Bake n’ Shark. Sales usually begin at 12 noon.

Swine Flu or Animal Farm?

2009-04-30T12:50:00.008-04:00

I knew it! From the minute I was forced to study the novel Animal Farm by George Orwell in high school, I knew that one day that book would actually come a live. It’s a conspiracy, I tell you! The swine flu is linked to Napoleon (the head pig) and his crew plotting to rule the world. Forget about Osama Bin Ladin. He’s probably hiding from this swine flu. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) needs to focus their attention on finding Napoleon before he catapults this virus into a huge epidemic.

Ironically, while the media is busy counting and reporting new cases of the swine flu, Napoleon and his buddies are probably back at the farm, where they’ve been for years, cooking up their revolutionary mutiny. Their first order of business: develop animal-like diseases and viruses.

In the 1990s Mad-Cow disease (a fatal, neurodegenerative disease in cattle) became a deadly epidemic in the United Kingdom. It is believed that consumption of infected cows leads to getting this deadly disease. Then, in 2007 it was the bird flu, a virus caused by the Avian influenza found in birds and transmissible to domesticated birds such as ducks, turkeys and chickens. Now, it’s the swine flu. It seems to me that the CDC needs to form a stronger alliance with the Food and Drugs Administration (FDA), or find Napoleon and his buddies and shut their operations down!

I pray that the CDC can create a vaccine fast enough to fight this swine flu virus, or that the virus dies quickly on its own. Until then, if you are coughing, sneezing, have a fever, runny nose and nausea, go see your doctor! If not, prevention is always better than a cure. Avoid close contact with people who have flu-like symptoms and wash your hands frequently. Let's put an end to this swine flu and show Napoleon and his buddies that they don't stand a chance!

Copyright © 2009 Denrique Preudhomme

The Protocol No-No

2009-04-07T13:44:00.004-04:00

By the time the media got a hold of the royal protocol no-no—First lady Michelle Obama touching Her Majesty Elizabeth Queen of England at a small gathering in Buckingham Place—the world was able to get a clear picture of how obsessed American media can be with matters of zero relevance. Even the Brits wondered what the big to-do was all about. And, as the massive media frenzy took center stage, there was no limit to accessing the infamous clip with Michelle Obama putting her arm around the Queen. There was even a survey on whether Michelle’s action was excused under the circumstances, considering the Queen put her arm around Michelle first, or if she was simply out of line. Geez.

For approximately two days the media didn’t seem to care whether we were in or out of a recession. The breach of royal protocol became the hottest foreign news since Bush dodged a reporter’s shoe in Iraq. Frankly, the media could have made a killin’ had they sold the infamous clip for a penny times the trillion times they showed the bloody thing. America could have cut their deficit, paid China off, ended the war in Iraq and have the Queen put her arms around both President and Mrs. Obama for their brilliance.

I really don’t wanna refuel this media irrelevance, but I will say just this: perhaps the Queen needs to be briefed on the protocol for greeting a sistah from the South Side of Chicago. Procedure #1: Don’t put your arm around her if you don’t know her like that. You could get b**ch-slapped.

Copyright © 2009 Denrique Preudhomme

A Medical Mishap or Delinquency?

2009-03-14T02:37:00.002-04:00

Unbelievable! Was my reaction to The Oprah Winfrey Show on the horrific tale of a woman who was diagnosed with breast cancer and then some.

According to the woman, she was diagnosed with breast cancer after a routine mammogram, and a biopsy. She then saw a few specialists who examined her, but could not find her cancerous tumor. After numerous meetings and discussions with physicians, fearing that the cancer would spread, a team of physicians decided to perform a mastectomy.

A few days later, devastated, but finally trying to cope with her breast lost, she received a phone call from her doctor insisting that she comes in ASAP. In tears, her doctor announced that she never had cancer. Turns out, her mammography films and diagnostics were switched with someone else’s and no one--including the team of physicians--discovered it until it was too late. Unbelievable!!

I would love to say how important it is to get a second opinion, but, since this woman had several and still wound-up with a ghastly reality, my advice here might be redundant!

Is this a medical mishap or is it downright delinquency? The former would put a wedge between a medical malpractice and a bunch of physicians going to jail. The latter, however, will probably be overlooked, because unless it’s not a case of the infamous Jack Kevorkian, who assisted in terminating the lives of his ailing patients, all involved will probably get off with a slap on the risk.

Apart from the obvious (a major lawsuit), what recourse could this poor woman possibly have from this tragic experience? Perhaps, only one, the strength to move forward with her life and use her story as a cautionary tale to other women.

Copyright © 2009 Denrique Preudhomme

Super Bowl XLIII: Let’s Play Ball or Let’s Play Sports?

2009-02-05T08:57:00.003-05:00

This may come as no surprise, but, at the same time James Harrison of the Pittsburgh Steelers was making history for the longest play ever in a Super Bowl game, I was trying to figure out exactly what the heck happens during a football game. Sure, I’m a sports enthusiast, but football to me always seems like a bunch of angry men charging at each other. However, after seeing an exhilarating Super Bowl 2009, I’m left to believe that football is just like any other sport. You don’t think so? Well, let me prove it to you.

Capitalizing on a bad throw by the Arizona Cardinals, James Harrison catches the ball and takes off like Usain “Lightning” Bolt. As he passes the 60 yard line, he dodges a few men like Kobe Bryant. Then, he does an amazing Jackie Joyner-Kersee long jump over a few fallen defensive players as he encroaches on the 45-yard line.

Determined to maintain his Venus & Serena Williams’ stamina, he journeyed forward. But, his goal was almost lost at the 10-yard line when he was forced to walk a tight rope like Mary Lou Retton on a balance beam. Finally, he gets knocked down from his blind side like the recipient of a Mike Tyson blow. Nonetheless, nothing is lost but the wind he needs to stand up and play again. Who cares about his wind? He just scored a touch down and it’s the longest play in Super Bowl history!

Congratulations, James Harrison! Who needs to know a darn thing about football when you’ve incorporated 6 different sports into a single play in one game? Dude, I’m wearing my Mike Piazza T-shirt from now on. I’ve gotta catch your next game.

Copyright © 2009 Denrique Preudhomme

The U.S. Economy: More or Less?

2009-02-01T16:52:00.004-05:00

When I pulled a copy of Forbes magazine out my mailbox a few weeks ago, the cover told the grim reality of a diminishing U.S. economy. It read: “Credit Crisis! Foreclosure! Market Crash! Recession! Falling Dollar! Bankruptcies! Inflation!” In short, the United States has all sorts of financial problems. It’s so bad, that the government is hoping that an $819 billion stimulus plan will lead to an economic recovery[1].

As the financial crisis wreaks havoc across the United States, folks are unjustly forced to pay more, but they receive less:

A 5.8 percent increase in international airfares and a 6 percent increase in domestic airfares seem to have triggered a 50 percent increase in stranded travelers at airports across the country[2].
Transport companies such as cabs, movers, and general deliveries are forced to implement a gas surcharge. If you ask me, they need to implement a money back guarantee for broken air conditioners, tardiness, and damaged goods.
The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit (Metro) recently announced they will soon have yet another fare increase (Geez), but it’s still difficult to get a seat on their forever-late buses and overcrowded trains.
Restaurants have increased their prices, as well as their portion control.
The Washington Post increased from 35 cents to 50 cents. The irony is, it’s costing more to read about the staggering reality of a dwindling economy. The Post seems to be saturated with nothing but statistics on unemployment, foreclosure and the credit crisis. Can they tell us something less depressing for 50 cents?

Nonetheless, aside from the depressing statistics, my point is, if we’re forced to pay more, shouldn’t we be entitled to better quality and experience? We are all affected by the state of the economy, but retailers need to remember that it is the consumer who holds the power of a “wildcard.” If we don’t buy, they won’t earn.

In the broad scheme of things, the dwindling economy remains an alarming concern: Although the price of gas has decreased at the pumps, foreclosure is still sweeping the nation; the U.S. dollar is still losing its weight; stocks are still dropping; bankruptcy remains the order of the day; and, the cost of living continues to rise, most believe (in part) because the Bush Administration spent billions of dollars to fund a useless war.[3]

What’s next for America? Sadly, soon, we might have to consider pawning gold to afford a bag of rice, or perhaps the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA, a treaty signed to produce trade among the Untied States, Canada, and Mexico) will prove to be America’s saving grace. NAFTA may now be an avenue for the all-mighty America to rely on one nation it once criticized for its lumber industry trade and the other whose immigrants it reduces to unfavorable stereotypes.

Copyright © 2009 Denrique Preudhomme

[1] House Passes Stimulus Plan with No GOP Votes, The New York Times: http://www.nytimes.com/2009/01/29/us/politics/29obama.html?_r=1
[2] Statistics taken from All Business, Amex Research Shows Sharp Airfare Increase; Hotel, Car Rate Hikes: http://www.allbusiness.com/transportation-communications/transportation-services/4140328-1.html.
[3] Gas prices skyrocketed to $4 at the pumps in July 2008, then, began to slowly decline in September 2008

Loving Two?

2008-12-22T22:32:00.002-05:00

In a survey I recently conducted I asked 100 men and women, “Is it possible to be ‘in love’ with two people simultaneously?”

The answer…drum roll please…a resounding, NO!

Sixty-six percent of women who took the survey do not believe it is possible to equally divide their emotions and desires between more than one people, while twenty-two percent of women believe it is possible to love two at the same time. Forty-five percent of men agreed that it is impossible to be “in love” simultaneously, while fifty-five percent believe it is possible. Twelve percent of women straddled the fence, declaring that they were very unsure, but indicated that a simultaneous love affair is contingent upon the men involved. There were no uncertainties indicated by men.

Ninety-five percent of people offered an explanation for their answers, while a smaller percent chose to define being “in love”. Some believed that there is a distinct difference between “loving” someone and being "in love" with someone, while others concluded, potato vs. potato...semantics. A higher percentage of explanations came from women, while of the smaller percentage of folks who did not render an explanation most were men.

What I found to be particularly interesting about this survey is, not one person broached the issue of “cheating.” It seemed like that word was taboo. Therefore, whether you agree or disagree that it is possible to be “in love” with two people simultaneously, does that behavior not constitute cheating? Hmmm...

Nonetheless, in no particular order, here are a few written responses I received.

“Now this is just my personal opinion, but I would have to say— absolutely not! When you are truly in love with someone, he is all you think about. You have absolutely no interest in spending time with anyone else. You don't even see other men, well not in that way, when you are really in love. So to be completely emotionally committed to two people at the same time is not even remotely possible. You can not give one hundred percent to two people simultaneously; it’s just not a mathematical possibility!”

“You can love a person that may never come to fruition and move on to another that you learn to love and that first love can still stay in your heart.”
“Yes it is possible to love two people at the same time.

I was once in love with a man because of the way I felt when he hugged me everyday at work and the fact that he was so unselfish to share a hug with a friend; then at the same time I was in love with another man who I was intimately involved with. It's been almost 9 years since that time and today and I can honestly say I still love them both for those feelings that overwhelmed me when I was with each.”

“Loving two? Well, I've had exes that I've remained close to even when we were both seeing other people. Strangely, while the emotional bond wasn't broken, our ability to live under the same roof was non-existent.
I've also had girlfriends and close personal friends whom I loved in completely different ways: One was more physical-based while the other was more of a union formed by two confidantes.

I think sometimes having difficulty moving on, or realizing your well has run dry can be mistaken for a continuation of love.

There is one woman who I will always love, a very close friend. It's not a physical thing, but we're always there for each other no matter what. In fact, a couple of my ex's are jealous of the fact that I'm closer to her than them.In short, I think you can love two--in different ways, and you can also be intimate with two--but that ain't necessarily love.”

“I have seen a lot of men play games with a bunch of women and it never works out. Someone is going to get hurt.”

“You can only have one wonderful person in your life at a time.”

“Yes, one can, but never in the same manner. I don't believe. I find that I have some inner switches that can change depending on who’s present to accommodate them, and vice versa. But if I had to say do I love one more than the other the answer would be, yes. But it would be a close race, nonetheless. The reality is: you can love 2 people, but those 2 people won't let you continue to love 2. It can be hectic.”

“Is it possible to be in love with more than one person simultaneously? I would have to say absolutely and unequivocally YES!!! I don't believe that there is just ONE Mr. or Mrs. Right in this lifetime. I'm very monogamous, but I do believe that it is possible to love more than one person at a time, although the degree of love varies. Heartbreaking...but possible! While I believe that this is possible, I don't agree that one should always act on it. It may need to be your best kept secret. I have personally loved 2 people at the same time. Or I should correct that. I had love for 2 people at the same time, though I didn't act on it. The love was still there. I believe that if you ever truly love a person and especially if you two grew in the relationship and that person became a part of your being, than that love doesn't die. It may diminish, but it doesn't die. Sometimes, timing is just bad. Or you didn't realize what you had until after the fact, and now you have love for the old love and the new love because there is unfinished business there between you and the past love.”

Survey conducted by Denrique Preudhomme

Forgive Him, Forgive Him Not

2008-11-18T22:45:00.000-05:00

In a survey I recently conducted I asked over 100 women, “If your husband/boyfriend is responsible for getting you really upset, what is the one or only thing he can do to get your forgiveness?”

Well…women stopped at nothing to express exactly what they expect from their mates. One woman said she literally puts her foot down, since the only thing her guy can do to get her forgiveness is to take her shoe shopping. While there were quite a few interesting responses the most common were: a mate saying “I’m sorry” and really meaning it; and, a mate showing how sorry he really is by buying an extravagant gift.

A few women were primarily concerned with “the reason” which led to their mates having to ask for forgiveness. They strongly believed that a barrage of “sorrys” and “gifts” would not fix a broken problem, but understanding the offense instead, is a start to earning forgiveness. Some suggested that time or therapy would fix the problem, while others concluded, “Payback will be a b**ch.”

There was a single response I found to be the most enlightening. It was from a woman who’s been married for over 17 years. She supported all of the aforementioned, noting that she and her husband have been through an enormous amount of trials, which only made them stronger in the end.

In no particular order, here are a few of the most provocative responses I received.

“Apologize sincerely.”

“To get my forgiveness he needs to really show me that he understands "why "I am angry. He needs to let me know that he has really thought about whatever was done to make me angry and why what was done is not ok. As a woman, his woman, I want to know that my opinion counts and that he takes my feelings into consideration. If what he has done is purposeful, he would have to make me understand why he chose to do what he did to get my attention. I have to really believe that he wishes to communicate and not just say whatever he needs to say to get me past the point of anger.”

“A sincere apology normally works for me, and he has to ask for forgiveness, then we’d have to openly discuss what led to the disagreement in the first place...”

“The shoe shopping doesn’t work. My ex would always do something for me, like make a nice dinner or buy me flowers or a book store gift card or something when he messed up, and it got to the point where I'd come in and not eat the food or leave the flowers on the table, because I really wanted to hear him just say and mean he’s sorry. I know different people have different ways of expressing it, but after 10 yrs of marriage I felt like it needed to be expressed in a way that worked for "me", not him. Being apologetic is about humbling yourself in some way and if you can't do it in a way that means something to the recipient, than, are you truly trying to apologize or just get things back in order?”

“Actions speak louder than words...A person can say, "I'm sorry" and not mean it. How many times have you heard those words only to be hurt again? I say, "Don't tell me you are sorry, show me..."

“When my fiancé tells me that he is sorry, he truly means it. He also gives me head-to-toe body massages and fries me a mean Porgie!”

“Merely saying "I'm sorry" won't cut it, especially if it was a repetitive behavior. To get my trust, he would have to demonstrate that he would not repeat that behavior. Example: Let's say he uses the Lord's name in vein, which I would have an issue with. He could say I'm sorry, but in the future, refrain from ever using the Lord's name, knowing it offends me.”

“Actions do speak louder than words, most of the times. It depends on the man. Actions were his cop out. Admitting he was wrong was a major issue for him. Like I said, I think the "doing" was more about getting the house back in order in terms of peace for him. It wasn't about me. We were married 14 yrs and he actually mouthed the words maybe 3 times and it was heartfelt.”

“Apologize deeper than words. It needs to be reflected in his actions. Translation: DON'T DO THAT ISH NO MO'!!”

“If he is keen enough to know that I am upset, he should (1) back off for the time being; (2) be prepared to let me verbally lash out if I have to. The forgiveness is already there, it just needs time to come into being. If we do it out of sync, the possibilities of rectification will be found to be not worth it or in need of therapy.”

“If my husband got me upset, the only thing that he would need to do to make amends is to acknowledge and apologize. Sincerity is key!!”

“If your significant other has hurt you, then it coming out in the open is punishment enough, if he is a decent man. And if he is a good man, he will not wait until he has committed an offense to provide material trappings. A sincere apology will do.”

“Take me to the spa for the day and end it with kisses and love.”

“I have been with my husband for 17 years and married since ’99. I do not think that there is much that I have not dealt with during our years together: infidelity, women threatening me, loss all our money, but we are stronger for it all, but trust he had to apologize with his mouth and his credit cards.”

“I found out the hard way that you can't gloss over something by a "sorry." Once the issue is addressed, you can move on.”

Survey Conducted by Denrique Preudhomme

Who’s Who In Presidential Campaign News

2008-11-04T15:25:00.000-05:00

NBC’s Saturday Night Live (SNL) November 1, was one of the most watched episodes in the history of SNL. Sen. John McCain made an appearance poking fun at his campaign and responding to his critics with, “Come on, Obama’s going to have plenty of chances to be president, it’s my turn. Vote for me.” It’s all fun and games until someone gets hurt, but McCain might need SNL to secure a wisecrack gig in the near future.

After Sen. Barack Obama’s 30 minute infomercial on some of TV’s major networks he was seen with the 42nd president, Bill Clinton, at a rally in Florida. Apparently, Clinton, who verbally attacked Sen. Obama earlier in the campaign season for false allegations made against his wife, Sen. Hillary Clinton, finally buried the hatchet. I guess a position in The Obama Administration seems more at reach and a surefire way to regain power over who’s going to wear the pantsuit in the Clinton household.

Sen. McCain’s presidential campaign might be swooning in debt because of expenses totaling $150,000 for Gov. Sarah Palin’s wardrobe. So, let me see if I get this: the country is in a financial meltdown and the GOP is furnishing folks with extravagant wardrobe? Say it ain’t so. What difference does it make whether Gov. Palin wears Prada or Payless? In the words of Sen. Obama, “You can put lipstick on a pig…but it’s still a pig.”

With the media playing a pivotal roll in Elections 2008, Gov. Sarah Palin wet their appetites for competitive media coverage. No sooner had the name Sarah Palin left Sen. McCain’s lips (as his choice for running mate) did the media began to make a public spectacle of her and the entire Palin family. It began with her daughter Bristol’s pregnancy, then, her Downs syndrome baby, her meddling in her sister’s marriage, her bouncing around to four colleges before receiving a BS in Journalism. I even saw an online picture of her in an American flag bikini holding a rifle. Geez! Instantly, the woman became more famous than Britney Sears and was ridiculed for her inability to exhibit vee pee qualities. I feel bad for the woman. She’s definitely going to need a “Shawshank Redemption” if the GOP does not win the race for the White House.

Sen. Hillary Clinton is back on track. It would take a village to discourage her. Although Clinton is spending a lot of time campaigning for her former rival Sen. Obama, make no mistake, her eyes are trained on 2012.

So, in light of all these events, what are you going to do? You might wanna start by getting out and…Vote 2008!

Copyright © 2008 Denrique Preudhomme

Colin Powell Endorses Sen. Obama—What Went Wrong?

2008-10-20T16:21:00.000-04:00

Just when you thought Elections 2008 had reached its pinnacle, given its stream of unprecedented events, there is more, at least one more. Perhaps it’s the final pumpkin in the patch just a few days before Halloween, but I guarantee you that this one is no scary tale.

Former U.S. Secretary of State and retired U.S. Army General, Colin Powell, who served under President George W. Bush from 2001-2005, endorsed Democratic presidential nominee Sen. Barack Obama (Sunday, Oct. 19). Powell said, “I think we need a transformational figure. I think we need a president who is a generational change and that's why I'm supporting Barack Obama, not out of any lack of respect or admiration for Sen. John McCain.” Powell also expressed his disappointment in the tone of his long time friend, Sen. John McCain’s campaign.

Frankly, when a highly respected Republican chooses to endorse a Democratic presidential candidate just a few days before a presidential election, one has to wonder, what went wrong? The question here is for the Republicans, because whether or not the Democrats thought Powell’s decision was forthcoming they now hold a major trump card they do not need to question.

What does this mean for Sen. Obama? Moreover, what does it mean for Sen. McCain? Get aboard my “straight-talk” express, because the writing is on the wall and not even a prognostic, political pundit can alter it. The war veteran and his “GOP strategy”, Gov. Sarah Palin—who, ironically was featured on the September 15, 2008 cover of Newsweek with a rifle slung across her shoulder—need to hang up their guns. The battle is over! Frankly, it won’t surprise me one bit if President Bush decides to endorse Sen. Obama, since many Republicans have become very disappointed in McCain, primarily in his choice for running mate.

Given the current U.S. economic crisis voters are mainly concerned with stretching their dollars and fixing the broken economy. Therefore, inflation, foreclosure, healthcare and tax reform takes precedence over funding a useless war in Iraq. In round three of the presidential debate at Hofstra University in Hempstead, N.Y (Wednesday, Oct. 15), Sen. McCain vehemently stated that he was not President Bush; however, his support of the war in Iraq makes him and President Bush the same to everyone except Gov. Palin.

The war in Iraq is the oracle of what went wrong for the Republicans. And, their legacy might forever remain a government that initiated a war in Iraq causing our nation to lose many courageous soldiers who fought a battle with a mission that is yet unknown.

Copyright © Denrique Preudhomme

The Presidential Debate Meltdown

2008-10-14T20:09:00.000-04:00

Round two of the presidential debate (October 7) held at Belmont University in Nashville, TN between Sens. Barack Obama and John McCain, proved to be no more than a finger pointing, misquoting, unconventional Town Hall style meeting, which was frankly a bit of a challenge for NBC’s news reporter, Tom Brokaw, to moderate.

There was obvious tension between both candidates during the debate, but Sen. McCain’s anxious pacing during Sen. Obama's response to key questions was quite a spectacle. I wondered if he was rehearsing for a rock concert, in which he’s a backup singer. Perhaps, they both needed to join hands and sing, “We are the world” or something, because the divisive heat between them will not help America.

With less than a month before elections, both candidates are yet to lay out a clear plan on their provisions for: undertaking our economic crisis; reforming healthcare; and, resolving the war in Iraq, which has become a rising concern for most Americans. Instead, accusations and defensiveness seem to be taking center stage.

Sen. Obama speaks of “change” but a “change” is not going to come about if there isn’t a distinct plan. Sen. McCain’s “straight-talk express” might be on a fast track to derailment, since day-by-day he has less facts to substantiate his claims. Perhaps they both need to watch the news instead of being in the news to realize that America needs more than “straight talk” to fix this current economic crisis.

A recent government 700 billion bailout did nothing but ricocheted stocks on Wall Street causing them to plummet 700 points or more. Market crash, foreclosure, bankruptcies, devaluating dollar, recession and inflation... all telltale signs of an economy that is definitely hurting! And, one can only hope that a repeat of the Great Depression, which began on Wall Street in 1929 [when the stock market crashed] and lasted throughout the 1930s and early 1940s, is not imminent.

While I am confident America will recover from its economic crisis, it is a sad reality to watch America—one of the richest and most powerful nations on earth—struggle to maintain its supremacy.

In light of America’s financial crisis, I’m beginning to wonder if either candidate, Sens. Obama and McCain, is really ready or capable of being the next Commander-in-Chief—given the challenge he will face to repair a broken economy.

Copyright © 2008 Denrique Preudhomme

Un-Invent

2008-09-27T00:25:00.000-04:00

In a survey I conducted recently, I asked over 50 people from different walks of life, “If you could un-invent one thing, what would it be and why?” I received quite a few interesting responses.

Initially, I intended to publish the top 10 most common responses, but then, I realized that of all the people I asked: most knew tons of things they wanted to un-invent in a New York minute, but could not put their fingers on any one pesky matter; some had quite a few interesting responses, but stuck with their strongest; while, others stated their only response vehemently.

To trigger off what I anticipated would be a host of provocative responses, I added my own as fuel for thought. What would I un-invent? The ATM, because I believe it’s the location of a crime waiting to happen.

In the end, I decided to publish all of the responses I received. They are all unique and thought-provoking. Some are just flat out hilarious.

Here are all of the responses I received. The first 10 are my favorite!

What: “Red light cameras.”
Why: “Do I really need to explain why?”

What: “Automatic weapons.”
Why: “We should only be allowed to fire one bullet at a time.”

What: "Guns."
Why: “People have enough ways of hurting each other.”

What: “If it were possible, I would un-invent hate.”
Why: “I believe most (99%) of the problems in this world stems from this terrible emotion: differences in race/culture, religion and politics…which in turn breeds elitism, intolerance, poverty and crime. It is a shame that the gift of free God gave to each one us is often used to belittle, degrade, enslave, torment, and kill rather than uplift our fellow man.”

What: “Viagra”
Why: “This little blue pill has caused more problems than it's worth.”

What: “Money.”
Why: “Because it has been the one thing that has been the most destructive force in the universe. Every problem in the world can easily be traced back to a money issue...nearly every so-called moral issue can be traced back to money. Almost every situation of destitution in humans can be traced back to money and almost all so-called crimes. 98% of problems revolve around money.”

What: “I would un-invent the idea that it's okay for men to NOT raise their kids.”
Why:

What: “Outsourcing.”
Why: “Do you know that when you call about your gas and phone needing repairs that they are in Bahia some dang where?
While they are eating up American dollars with their products they are taking American jobs to cheaper countries.”

What: “Kool-Aid.”
Why: “Probably the reason why I can't sit still now. Still burning off all of that Sugar!”

What: “UNVENT the cell phone and text messaging...PLEASE!!!!!!!!!”
Why: “it wasn't that long ago (early 90s) when cell phones were basically unheard of and when they were introduced they were cumbersome. yes today they are befitting and smaller, but they have transformed us into addictive clones only interested in the latest/high tech one. we even walk around with mini-objects with a neon blue flashing light in our ears ready to take the next incoming call at the most inappropriate places....church, restaurants, libraries, movies, relaxing at the beach, etc. And, they have distracted us from the simplest pleasures in life: socializing with good friends, dinner with that special someone, an engaging lecture/presentation, a long drive with a scenic view...we are too distracted by the bells and whistles of a device that can never take the place of friends, lovers, and life!”

What: “What's going on with vanity publishers such as Infinity, AuthorHouse, and Publish America?”
Why: “Because they are seeking to rip off talented people.”

What: “Potato Chips.”
Why: “You know why.”

What: “8 hour / 5-day work weeks and replace it with 9 hour/ 4-day work weeks.”
Why: “Shorter work week.”

What: “The Republicans.”
Why: “Because they are working my everlasting nerves right now!!!!”

What: “Nuclear Weapons.”
Why: “Because they cause Mass-Destruction.”

What: “E-mail.”
Why: “It’s made communication between folks very impersonal.”

What: “Cell phones and texting.”
Why: “Dangers while driving and walking.”

What: “Texting.”
Why: “It’s so impersonal and dangerous while driving/walking.”

What: “All breakthroughs that become a fixture of the American landscape spawn social problems, but probably none more than the personal computer.”
Why: “While I think it is one of the greatest--if not THE greatest--invention of all time, it is also the one most likely to be used to steal, spy, bully, exploit (children and young women), find deadly information (how to make bombs, etc.), financial manipulation, and engage in criminal enterprise (identify theft, robbery, etc.) It has also made us too reliant on technology, in particular as far as nuclear safety is concerned.”

What: “High Fructose Corn Syrup, which has us addicted, unable to correctly determine when we're full, has us diabetic, and/or overweight, and is killing us.”
Why: “Unfortunately, it can be found in most of what we eat and drink, even when we can't taste it. This product has made it cheaper to produce food, and it's sweeter than sugar and easily transportable. But it is devil spawn.”

What: “Automated phone systems.”
Why: “You can never reach an actual LIVE person on the phone!”

What: “Automated voice services.”Why: “They call you.....don't allow you to answer....when you do they don't understand. If you ask for customer service they ask can they help and it all begins again. It's an inconvenience when you want to talk to a person for anything that is not on the recorded message. Also the automated call service that calls you although you paid the bill and the customer service representative explains that "the computer called you. Useless in my mind and frustrating.”

What: “Debt.”
Why: “Because if it wasn't created, maybe I would be rich or at least have a lot more money in my pocket right now.”

What: “Bleaching for food.”
Why: “So the benefits of eating these foods would be present.”

What would you un-invent? Please feel free to share your thoughts.

Death of The D.C. Madam...Hmmmm

2008-05-20T09:42:00.005-04:00

I was more than shocked by MSN’s headline: "The DC Madam Found Dead." Actually, I was confused. Goodness! Yes, Deborah Jeane Palfrey was found guilty on April 15, 2008, of money laundering, racketeering, and running what she called an "escort agency." Yes, she'd ousted a few big name clients in July 2007 when she vindictively named names in an effort to save her own behind. Yes, she'd previously spent eighteen months in a federal prison for running a prostitution ring and vowed she was, "not going back to federal prison for one day." But her death, an "apparent" suicide? Things to make you go hmmm.

Palfrey stated that her transcendence from nothing to successful business woman meant the world to her. And being confronted with losing everything to a possible fifty-five year sentence, frankly, would mess with anybody's self-worth. But a suicidal hanging of a woman? Hmmm. Statistically, women are least likely to hang themselves. We overdose, throw ourselves off cliffs, stand in moving traffic, drown ourselves, and slit our wrist. But hanging? Nooo. You see, we need a few minutes before our last breath to wonder if we wore the right dress, our shoes match, or our hair looks fine. A slow death works better for us. But hanging? Nah!

What happened to Palfrey's little black book? Reporter Dan Moldea—who is believed to have been working with Palfrey on a book—said he knew Palfrey quite well and that there was no little black book. I got news for you Moldea: Jesus thought he knew Judas well, too. So the question is, Is it possible that Palfrey intended to release one or two more names connected to her case before her "apparent" suicide?

Blanche Palfrey, who found her daughter's body in a shed at the back of her Tarpon Springs, FL home, said she had no signs that her daughter was suicidal. Yet Palfrey is believed to have committed suicide. Hmmm.

Larry Flynt, magazine publisher and an advocate of Palfrey, described her as a bright woman, someone who did not have the demeanor or apparent signs of a person who would commit suicide, yet the police ruled her death a suicide.

The "DC Madam"--A name that (although despised by Palfrey), oddly enough, echoed a sense of "girl power" that may have been displeasing to her shady Capitol Hill clients. Perhaps a "DC Mister" would have fared better on money laundering and racketeering changes. After all, Lewis "Scooter" Libby was pardoned from going to prison despite his conviction for lying to a federal investigator. My point is, there could be more than one reason to explain Palfrey's apparent suicide. Although, many seem to think that her death was not the result of a conspiracy.

Who knows what's discussed behind closed doors on Capitol Hill. I certainly don't wanna know, so you can best believe, if I've got an iota of info, mums the word. Why? I live on Capitol Hill. They'd find me in two shakes of a rabbit's tail. Or would they? Hmmm.

Copyright © 2008 Denrique Preudhomme

Vote 2008!

2008-02-24T12:50:00.000-05:00

I can’t remember when the race for the White House has been this entertaining. Everybody and their grandmother is tuning in to this one! Who needs Sports TV or Cable TV, when local and national news broadcast such an attractive ball-by-ball account of the men and woman vying to become the next President of the United States of America.

As Vote 2008! moved pass Super Tuesday, presidential hopefuls dwindled down to three front runners and a striving guitar strumming politician who might need to play a different tune. Political rhetoric is on the rise as the remaining candidates seek ways to discredit their rivals. Tension is starting to build, but these tenacious candidates are seemingly not going anywhere until…the fat lady sings.

For the Republicans:

Arizona Senator, John McCain, a pro-life, war veteran who supports the troops in Iraq, and the No Child Left Behind Act. Sounds good for the White House? Well, how does this sound? Chuck Norris thinks that McCain might be too old for the White House. He fears that McCain might not be able to handle the pressures of the White House at age 72. I have news for you, Chuck. McCain was recently accused of having sexual relations with a lobbyist. Now that makes him White House ready! But, hold up McCain…let’s make this clear. You got nothing on Bill Clinton!

Former Arkansas Governor, Mike Huckabee. Yes, we might as well include him in the line-up, since he’s hanging-in for political principle, perhaps. He’s the guitar strumming politician who basically believes that all Americans need a tax break. YEAH for Huckabee!! But, if he really needs to use a guitar to try to convince America to vote for him, he needs a Mick Jagger and The Rolling Stones campaign endorsement.

For the Democrats:

Illinois Senator, Barack Obama, an advocate for affordable healthcare, one who Delaware Senator, Joe Biden describes as, “The first mainstream African-American who is articulate and bright and clean and a nice-looking guy.” If you ask me, Biden needs to become more socially aware. Nonetheless, Obama was recently accused of political plagiarism by democratic rival, Hillary Clinton. He dismissed the accusation by saying, “What we shouldn’t be doing is tearing each other down, we should be lifting the country up.” He’s right about that!

Former First Lady and New York Senator, Hillary Clinton, a woman who’s been criticized for her lack of emotions. She advocates for healthcare reform and hopes to be the woman to wear the “pantsuit” in the White House. However, as it stands, Clinton needs her pantsuit and a huge win if she hopes to make it to the White House. It will take not only a village, but a few states, and a horse’s shoe for Clinton to make a strong comeback.

As the race for the White House heightens, only one thing is certain, the next candidate to become the President of the United States will make history. Who will it be?
Will it be:
· Senator McCain, the war veteran, likely to be the first oldest elected President of the United States?
· Senator Clinton, the pantsuit pioneer, likely to be the first female President of the United States?
· Senator Obama, the man with the funny name, likely to be the first African-American President of the United States?
· Or, former Governor Huckabee, the strumming stringer, likely to be the first presidential candidate to not quit while taking a huge nose dive?

The delegates are stacking up for both Democratic and Republican candidates, but it is the super delegates who will hold the power of a “wild card” for only the Democratic candidates. Who will win the race for the White House? Tune in to find out. But before you grab your popcorn and soda, don’t forget to…Vote 2008!

Copyright © 2008 Denrique Preudhomme

Romance vs. Finance

2008-01-01T21:49:00.000-05:00

Finance should never be the core issue in a relationship. Although, if a man is not financially secure as I am, it can pose a problem. I'm a woman who socializes extensively and it's important for a man to be able to comfortably fit into and afford my social rendezvous'. However, while I would easily choose a steamy romance over finance, the problem is...I won't choose a man who's interested in keeping me "in" and adorning me with kisses because he can't afford to take me "out".

On the flipside, I love romantic men and would certainly choose romance over finance only on my wedding night when I'm sure that my husband has paid for the entire wedding.

-Denrique