human beings have long co-existed in a societies governed, and sustained, by guns and butter--analogical tangible items representing the tools by which one survives, and the spoils of successful mastery of a skill, or skill set. some peoples' guns are bigger than others', and some peoples' butter is more flavorful. regardless of the quality of an individual's guns or butter, each  of us needs them both, in some way, to exist, and enjoy life, in whatever capacity afforded to us. even independent artists make use of, and require, guns and butter--the creative works being the guns, and the compensation and recognition being the butter.  

(CBS/AP) Whitney Houston's death wascaused by accidental drowning, but heart disease and cocaine use were contributing factors, according to coroner's officials.

Trayvon Martin was a 17 year old, BLACK Child that was gunned down by George Zimmerman , a Hispanic man, because Trayvon was BLACK at the wrong time.  Morning Joe Panel Discusses Trayvon Martin Case

Did YOU see how stunning Viola Davis looked as she strutted down the red carpet, with her gorgeous dress, sexy husband and that amazing N-A-T-U-R-A-L hair?!  She was breath-taking, but it baffles me that it took her decades to climb from behind the weave; the hair that allows you to become acceptable in the eyes of the majority.

Review of  “Good Deeds” by SK Contest winner Nichele Mateo.

Tyler Perry's latest movie, "Good Deeds"  is a refreshing departure from his previous films.  Good Deeds explores the lives of two people from opposite ends of the societal spectrum. 

New Jersey, January 14, 2013– One of the biggest plus size events in history is upon us as January 26th quickly approaches.  The NYC Plus Model Network is having a monumental casting for aspiring plus size models.  The Owner of NYC Plus Model Network, Ms. Joy Ashley had a vision to create an event that would give the Plus Size Model Community an opportunity to meet and work with casting directors and influential brands in the plus size industry.  Some of the top names in the plus size modeling and fashion industry have signed on to show support for this groundbreaking event.

My cuz made me think about posting this because of her fb page status. We know they're alot of dead beat baby daddys out there but let me go in on these dead beat baby mommas and Im not talking about the ones who dont have their kids for whatever reason, im speaking on the mommas who live with there kids and they're still dead beats. My definition of a dead beat momma:

Dear Spirit,

After reading your letter, I was so moved, I cried until my head hurt because I know the truth. I understand all that you have said. It all makes sense…but it just feels so good when I am with him. Why can’t you see that? Don’t you feel it when he holds me? It is warm and I feel complete. WE feel complete! He told me that he loves me and I believe him. I know that his situation is not the most ideal for us, but what are our other options?

It’s a New Year!  Yet, Valentine’s Day is around the corner and love is lurking around every corner with a chubby cherub pointing an arrow at you.  In my previous blog post, “The Power of Forgiveness”, I wrote about forgiving and letting go. It can be especially difficult during holiday times like Thanksgiving, Christmas and defiantly the “Big Love Day.” If you’re single, Valentine’s Day can put you in a place of bitterness and you’ll want to have an, “I hate Valentine’s Day” party.  I can almost guarantee that as you read my previous blog post, you may have said aloud to yourself, “I’ll forgive, but I ain’t forgetting!” Or maybe you muttered, “I know I need to forgive, but I don’t know how.”  You may have also said, “I forgave, but how can I let go and move forward?” The list of thought provoking questions could go on. And, believe it or not, I’ve asked myself the same questions, and then some. I’m not going to say that I have all the answers, but I do have some insightful thoughts I’d like to share with you.

Taking a internet stroll past Google ave and Bing street, I came a cross an interesting shop on Facebook blvd featuring erotic poems and toys. I seemed to have caught the store owner adding more products for display. In doing so we had the most interesting chat about what little girls can get in to and how they grow up to be grown women. Meet LaShanda McLendon , poet and owner of  Suckafreeshanda.com

SK:  Good Afternoon, How is business these days?

Suckafreeshanda.com: Hi, pretty dry.

SK: Is that a trend or something new?

Suckafreeshanda.com: I just started my business last month officially so with any new small business this is the norm so I'm told.

SK: What is the nature of this business?

Suckafreeshanda.com: I feature my erotic poems and sell erotic items.

SK: Wow a double dose of reality. First what got you in to the erotic items business?

The Mind behind Bedlam...

This twenty-six year old Missouri native is now one of the most sought-after designers in the Bay area.

  Her pieces having been seen on celebrities such as Shaunie O' Neal, Evelyn Lozada and Vanessa Simmons just to name a few, and have caught the eye of the artistic at heart and those who dare to be different.

  We sit down with Kyra Kouture, CEO & Chief Designer of Bedlam Accessories.

Q. Tell me a little bit about Bedlam, how did it start and how did you come up with the name for it?

Swaggakings.com wants to shine the business spot light on new modeling agency with a most needed spin. Coming out of the Atlanta Georgia area is Star Size Studios,  a plus size agency created by company CEO and model, Yolanda Zellous, that features plus size models and entertainers, but all sizes are welcome. 

With the season changing we must be precautious and take care of our most valuable asset, our skin! “More than 1 million people in the US are diagnosed with skin cancer each year, making it the most common form of cancer in the United States. Skin cancer is largely preventable. Studies have shown that most skin cancers are linked to overexposure to sunlight (UV radiation). Therefore,

Mental health in the minority communities is a very tough topic. Not only have people of color overlooked the problem themselves; up until recently our great Nation even minimized the problem in black communities. I have an autistic adult son, and he is truly a gifted child. I believe he is destined for greatness because he can be so passionate about what he does; it’s almost to a fault. He is the reason I decided to talk about this today.

Had a long day at the office? Bills due? Finding yourself overwhelmed & need a way out fast? Relief is as simple as taking a bath.

Some of the best advice I'd received about parenting was:

                    “ Alicia… Don’t believe the hype, men can change diapers too!”

 Upon hearing it I laughed, but I would soon discover that this advice, would become my “words to live by.”

 For the first time in my life I now had someone, who solely depended on me for everything.

I would soon come to find out that my husbands idea of help, didn't seem to be much help at all.

All this month, I’m going to be writing about “Passion”. I don’t want you to think of it as an emotion or even a feeling; let’s discuss it in the form of “accomplishing a goal”. To be very honest, years ago, when I thought or heard the word “passion”, I instantly thought of, love, sex, or a certain degree of lust. Now that I am a passionate woman with a purpose, my viewpoint has changed immensely.

When I think about spring the first thing that comes to mind is bright colors, sunny days and good times! With winter rapidly coming to an end it’s time to break out the shorts, flip flops & shade. Gearing up for summer I just purchased the HOLLAND COLLECTION BY OPI.

OPI is the largest manufacturer of nail polish and nail care products in the world. They distribute over 14,000 products. Its vibrant colors made it a personal favorite of mine for years until my latest research. Generally speaking nail polish has 11 basic ingredients. Depending on color and brand you will have more. While looking for the active ingredient in OPI polish I discovered that the polish itself is linked to cancer and reproductive issues in women. Why?

Hello beauties I'm your new beauty blogger. I have some exciting news for you about this program and wanted to share it with you guys! I saw this and I had to suscribe. I can't wait to get my new things right in my mail box. Who doesn't love samples!! Me!! of course. Here is what I'm talking about its called Test Tube from New Magazine. It's all about beauty. You get some pretty great samples plus you get a thick magazine with great info & tips on beauty. I wanted to share this with you guys. I wanted to start this blog with great info for you. That's what I do. Here is how the programs works: Thoroughout the year, Test Tube subscribers will receive four different exciting boxes filled with deluxe samples of the latest and best beauty products. The value of the samples you'll receive will always significantly exceed the subscription price. You will be charged $29.95 (plus $8.95 for shipping and handling) as each new Test Tube is sent to you.

I'm a little upset with the plus size industry and I need to vent about how I'm feeling, I know I'm but so small in it, But everyone is entitled to their opinion so here it goes.

As a freelance model it means that you’re not represented by an agency. I’m sure being with an agency is easier in many ways, one being that the agency is responsible for promoting you and booking you jobs. Being a freelance model it is

 "Hard Work Pays off, so I never take a Day off"

 Coining the term "Husky Girl Swagg" this twenty-eight year old plus-size Vixen, is well on her way to plus-size success!

 Upon meeting this young woman, after being completely smitten with her personality, you'll hear her story and in an instant, become her biggest fan.

  Mother of one, eldest of three, and truly one of a kind...get to know bay-area native Octavia Mims-Miller.

"I believe in this industry and the people in it.
It’s all about staying positive and motivated."

Nina Taylor, a Washington DC native although having done countless features, is best known as the “Face” of Full Figured Fashion Week 2011.

Every plus model and aspiring plus-model has come across her stunning photos and stood in awe.
 

 Her print-work has inspired amazing photos and shoots, from amazing women and photographers all over the world.

 Get to know the Model, the Educator, the Humanitarian.

Modeling is a passion that is within, an expression that comes from within to out inner beauty shown through fashion your walk and the ability to connect with the camera all expression's of beauty...It can be learned but then it becomes stiff and learned from someone other then yourself...and then it is not personal...

Always be who you are keeping it sexy, classy and grown...

It is no secret that Swagga Kings has for years feature plus size models. We have been champions of the plus fashion industry since the day we first published. After being asked to assist a few new ventures that focus on the plus community, a few reoccurring issues keep circling within the plus community that we feel need to be talked about openly.  Late March 2012 SK caught up with an up and coming plus size model Essie Golden. In her interview she talked about 2 issues that SK will continue to explore. Today we will take a peek in to our chat on weight and when is big to big.

Every fashionista knows that accessories helps complete any outfit, But some accessories are meant to stand out more then what you have on, Which are called "Statement Accessories". Soo chic Accessories offer so many bold statements Accessories that you will find yourself wanting everything on the site like I did. Please check my exclusive interview with Soo Chic Accessories owner London.

I love to people watch, so while traveling for work I took the opportunity to just observe them. People wear anything to the airport in an effort to be comfortable unless they are on business, then they are in suits or business casual attire. Personally, I have to be cute at the airport you never know who you will meet. So what do you wear while traveling? I am glad you asked. I took pictures of a few individuals that got it right.

Be Edgy: You can be edgy and comfy as Martina proves here wearing black over-the-knee riding boots with jean skinnies, rolled up boyfriend blazer and colorful scarf.

One of my biggest pet peeves is woman looking like they just stepped off the short bus when they are at work or out and about. I know I know, being a stylist this should bother me, but it is just starting to get ridiculous. Being busy is no excuse for landing on the “Walmart” video. I know we should not judge a book by its cover but we do, get over it and create a better cover. The point is that your clothing should reflect who you are and show your personality.

Something on my mind... wont somebody please tell me whats RIGHT!

Recently ( since October) I have discovered this renewed interest in hosiery of different prints. I mean from colored fish nets to striped thigh highs... 14 years ago I would of thought nothing of it simply trying to imitate the Babysitters club or Clueless! Awh or even need I say Romy and Michelles highschool Reunion with thier flirty little minis and killer platform sandals perplexed in their boring dead end jobs. Does being young and beautiful in America really pay off. If so can we really afford to be bias of females whom are comfortable with their sexuality and yet just love to exploit their legs?

Join Alicia Hendricks as she delves into "Snake With A Flower, Poetry and Prose" a book by one of SK's own, Andrew Scott.

  Upon asking to do this book review, I immediately became reluctant due to having read previous poetry books, I found them to lack a type of history.

Lacking the who, what, when, where and why's of how their writing was birthed.

 I found myself sometimes loving the writings, but seemingly lacking the substance needed to connect with the writer.

When I received Andy's book I was pleasantly surprised, as I made the conscious decision to read this book from the last page to the first, my need for the story behind each writing was fulfilled. In the last few pages of the book, Andrew Scott has a section entitled "How The Snake Arrived,"and in these few pages Andrew Scott not only gives you the history behind each poem, but also a look into the inspiration in which formed them.

After reading my first poem I began taking this book with me to work, the gym, and any place of solitude that allowed me to engulf myself in his writings.  Shockingly I was able to find something, or someone that I connected with in each one of them.

Snake With A Flower touches on life, death, hardship, and even the discovery of one’s self a path in which, we all have followed.

 Having to pick just one poem that I would base my review on, although extremely hard, I chose the one that stood out to me the most. The one that stuck with me, long after reading it.

 "I was going through a very difficult time, this was my rally cry. I was not dead yet, and I knew it," says Andrew Scott of the poem "ReBirth".

Although this was HIS history behind this writing, I personally connected with it, but on a more spiritual level.

 Being a Christian, it briefly brought to my remembrance the crucifixion of Jesus Christ.

Now, don't get me wrong I am not saying that this writing compared to the detailed crucifixion of Jesus Christ as stated in the Bible, I am merely saying that this is what and how I connected with this writer, on a my personal level.

I wanted to give everyone a look into ReBirth;

"I have heard of my spirit's death,

how the torment of yesteryear led to my last breath.

 I would hate to be the one to spoil,

I was not buried in hardened soil,

 I was very much alive,

slowly digging out is what I strive.

 Last I was seen, I had my eyes closed,

arms crossed was what I was posed.

 I lay underneath, wide awake,

the body is a little weak,

for what I will seek.

 However not the mind,

 in it is all I need to find.

When you feel the quake,

 that is me, making all awake.

As I reach from the underground,  

reaching through, not making a sound.

What you feel was a crucifixion,  I feel as a resurrection,

 filled with a new blood strength,

that will push me to a new length.

Do not be afraid as I leave my tomb.

 Do not be afraid as I cut the cord of the womb.

I reach up to energize,

 Please I ask you to realize,  

that I aim to not harm on this earth,

as you feel my rebirth."

-Andrew Scott (January 30, 2010)

This is a beautiful poem that takes you to a place of deeper thought, and solitude.

No matter the history behind each writing, possessing the ability to connect with each reader is something that Andrew Scott completely excels at.

 I recommend each person read "Snake with A Flower, Poetry and Prose" by Andrew Scott, and find the poem that best connects with you.

Read it, Love it, Recommend it, and support this awesome writer!

If you would like to find out more about Andrew Scott and "Snake With A Flower, Poetry and Prose" please visit his website at: http://andrewmscott.weebly.com

After scanning the internet for new music and artists to listen to and grow to appreciate, this reviewer, Andrew Scott, stumbled upon Sarah Williams and her release "Come Back Around". This month we shall listen and discover this artist's musical styling in this very resent release.

Following up a very good debut for any musician can be very hard to do as it can either make you new fans or lose old fans. It may be considered a make or break time in an artist's career. In 1998, Sara Evans took on this task in releasing her second collection of music in "No Place That Far". This month we are going to look at this release as this reviewer, Andrew Scott, goes and pulls this CD from his own personal collection.

As part of our National Recording Artist Search, Digital Platinum A&R will be hosting Private Record Label Auditions in Clearwater FL, Saturday August 24th at 8 am at Clear Track Recording Studios. Tony Drootin, Director of Studio Operations at famed Bad Boy Entertainment. (P Diddy's Record Label) will only be auditioning (50) artists for (1) day only.

Go to (www.digitalplatinum.net) to get registered for this 1 day event as slots are filling fast.

Tony will take the music of the most promising artists and present it to the top A&R at Bad Boy Entertainment, among other A-listers like Wyclef Jean, who is looking for talent for his new record label. If you are an aspiring artist, this is your opportunity to get in front of the real deal.

There are times when musicians wish to expand their horizons on what they present to us musically. This is exactly what took place on the Metallica collection “Load”. Please join this music reviewer as this month we are taking a look at a selection from this reviewer’s own music collection with Metallica’s “Load”.

This reviewer and music fan does get many friends that walk up and tell me that there is a new artist for me that I have to listen to. Usually I enjoy it as it is something that I am used too. This month we are going to look at one of the artists in one of those conversations except this suggestion was a little different. Com with this music reviewer as we look and discover gospel artist, Kim Walker-Smith and her recent release "Still Believe (Live)".