Lovelorn man pays $1,800 for newspaper love letter

Need to make a grand romantic gesture? Take a line out of Raul's book ... er newspaper ad.

Raul shelled out $1,800 last week to tell love-spurned Megan that he still wants her. The Texas man penned a "1,000-plus-word half-page love letter/advertisement" in The San Antonio-Express News.

"As the story of the unusual advertisement started to gain national attention, the San Antonio-Express News attempted to get Raul to elaborate on the rather cryptic note. But Raul has refused, preferring that his original letter, which contains no last names or contact information, speak for itself."

Raul's words to Megan include: "I understand your life is different but my soul is still constantly trying to touch yours" and "If I really truly love you, then it's important that I look for the highest mountain to climb and shout it from the top of my lungs."

This sweet story has apparently prompted countless men to come forward seeking a similar ad for their lady loves. I hope we get some romantic prose soon inside the pages of The Enterprise.

Will you get 'Carried' away with the new 'Sex' sequel?

Confession: I loved Sex and the City when it was on HBO. (The clothes, the storylines, the many, many men were great!)

The 2008 movie tied up some loose ends remaining after the HBO finale and I was happy where the girls left off. After watching the trailer for 'Sex 2,' however, I fear the Fonz has jumped the shark. (WTF?!? Are they channeling 'Lawrence of Arabia' in Chanel bathing suits?)

This film could finally prove once and for all that some things are better than 'Sex'.

Become a 'beautiful baby all over again' with The Bundler

Behold. The Bundler! Our reptilian pal Gator shared this nifty (and totally retro) find after reading my previous post on Jumpin Jammerz.

I love that The Bundler is advertised as "the snuggly fashion that will make ANY big kid a beautiful baby all over again!" WHAT?!?! There are so many things wrong with that statement. It's no wonder The Bundler went the way of slouch socks and puffy sleeves.


I think one blogger summed it up best (and quite hilariously) with this post:
"Robe scientists have discovered the earliest known Snuggie/ Slanket ancestor: 'The Bundler.' Which is apparently just footie pajamas held on with rubber bands? 'Deliciously sexy on her, smoothly good-looking on him.' No it's not."

Get your "Crazy Monkey" on with footed jammies

It’s a Snuggie holiday conspiracy.

Retailers must have met in a seedy back alley in October and decided to collectively shove Snuggies down our throats this Christmas.

Leopard print Snuggies are falling off shelves at Walgreen’s, Target is pushing the breast cancer survivor Snuggie, and every big-box retailer in between is hocking a Snuggie made for dogs. (Dogs already have a built in Snuggie, folks. It’s called fur!)

I think retailers missed the mark this year, though. Don’t they know it ’tis the season for Jumpin’ Jammerz, footed pajamas for adults? Oh yes. You read correctly. Footed pajamas are no longer just for kiddos and weird folks with fetishes.

According to Jumpin Jammerz’ Web site: "Jumpin Jammerz is leading the way in footed sleepwear with a vast array of fun prints, styles, fabrics and colors!"
"Our Jammerz have been worn by an ever growing list of celebrities, including Joan Cusack, Dakota Fanning, Vanessa Lengies, and have been spotted on ‘Saturday Night Live,’ ‘The Ellen DeGeneres’ show and made it into the ultra elite grab-bags at the 2007 Oscars!"

Something makes me think "Saturday Night Live" cast members were not wearing Jammerz in a serious sketch. And who the heck is Vanessa Lengies? (I looked her up. She’s been in a few episodes of "Hawthorne" and made one
appearance on "Medium." Jammerz might be using the term "celebrity" with Lengies a little loosely.)

Sorry, I digress.

Jammerz, with styles ranging from "Firetrucks" to "Crazy Monkey," start at $45.
Oh and ladies, Jammerz also come in "Sexy Sheer" for $60. And, nothing is hotter than fabric covering every inch of your body, except for your face.

Getting back to the Snuggie craze of 2009, Jumpin Jammerz is marketing their own version of the blanket with sleeves. You can order a Silly Blanket in Leopard Skin, Pink Cheetah or Red Camo for $19.95.

Bet that Pink Cheetah looks wild with the "Sexy Sheer" Jammerz!

The Ladies of the L'Auberge know how to roll em'

Daddy got a gamblin' problem?

Well, then move on. This gift ain't for him.

The L'Auberge Du Lac Casino Resort is revealing their 20Ten Ladies of L'Auberge Calendar, featuring "sexy employees."

With just a few days till Christ's birthday, you've still got time to get your hands on this "sizzling" find just in time for Christmas giving. According to the Lake Chuck casino, "getting into print isn't easy."

"Employees must audition for a highly coveted spot in the glossy calendar."

Wonder what that audition is like?
I bet it goes something like this:

Big Boss: "Darla Jane. Instead of wearing your gift shop uniform on Friday, we're gonna need you to come on in to work in that maid costume you wore to the company Halloween party."

Darla Jane: "Sure thing. But, do I have to sit in your lap like last time?"

Oh, I am only kidding. I am sure the whole affair is really classy.

To find out how the process really goes, log on to HERE"for a behind-the-scenes video diary of the calendar shoot, additional photos and biographies for each Lady of L’Auberge. Additionally, you can watch video interviews of each calendar girl and purchase a calendar."

Calendars are $12.99 and are sure to keep you all hot and bothered through 20Eleven.

Nothing says the holidays like suffocating a baby

Admittedly, I don't have children. So, maybe my reaction to the Princess Collection Princess Take Along Baby is all wrong:

Who in the hell would buy this for their kids!?!

Trendy reader Roxanne sent me this divine find from the CVS Web Site. For $7.99 you can teach your little girl how to kill a baby. "Yes, Sally. Babies love it when you store them in a confined space with limited air."

It's like Take Along Baby was ripped from local headlines. Remember Thanksgiving 2003 when a high school age mother stuffed her newborn in her Port Neches-Groves band bag? The baby, created with the girl's own brother, died of suffocation.

She got 12 years for capital murder and her brother got probation for having an inappropriate relationship with his sister.

Makes me wonder if good ol' mom just didn't know babies are not supposed to be zipped up in backpacks. Before you pick up toys this year for the kiddos, remember dysfunction starts at home.

Yes, Virginia there is a gift card

Tomorrow, anyone named Virginia can receive a $10 gift card to Macy's.

Weird promotion? Perhaps.

The department store has proclaimed tomorrow as National Believe Day and will give any Virginia who comes into the store a free gift card. Macy's will also unveil their new animated holiday film, "Yes, Virginia," at 7 p.m. on CBS.

For those of you not named Virginia, don't fret. Bring a stamped letter to Macy's, addressed to Santa at The North Pole, and drop it in their Santa letter box. For each letter received, Macy's will donate $1 to the Make-A-Wish Foundation (up to $1 million).

Hasbro purchase benefits Salvation Army

Wow! I seem to have offended some of you readers with my prior post on bell ringers.

For those of you who would like for me to "go stand in the cold, rain, and even the hot weather for a day" as a bell ringer, I guess I should confess that I volunteered as a bell ringer and with the Angel Tree program while I was in college. It was a truly rewarding experience in which I got to spread Christmas cheer.

And now, I hope to spread even more.

Target is donating 5 percent of your purchase of select Hasbro toys, bought now through Saturday, to the Salvation Army. For details, visit www.target.com/salvationarmy

According to Target, The Salvation Army serves more than 30 million people across the United States each year.

Bell ringers giving the gift of laziness?

Salvation Army red kettles signify the start of Christmas for me, perhaps even more than holiday lights.

I love dropping loose change and some bills into each kettle in my path, knowing I will help a family in my community have a nice holiday. I also enjoy the enthusiasm of bell ringers, the joy they seem to get from visiting with folks coming and going on their various Christmas errands.

Sadly, I have lost the spark for red kettles this year. Not because I don't want to give. Rather, I find myself dissatisfied with the bell ringers.

I know this is not their job, and many bell ringers are volunteers. But, on two occasions yesterday I merrily dug in my purse for money to drop in kettles in front of Macy's at Parkdale Mall and Market Basket in Port Neches. To my disappointment, both bell ringers were absent from their kettles.

At Macy's, a woman sat inside the store's entryway texting - both on my way in and out of the store. I understand bell ringers get breaks, but it was the lunch hour and a busy shopping day. Last night at Market Basket, the bell ringer sat 5 feet away from his kettle, quietly reading a newspaper. A friend told me he saw a bell ringer at Walgreen's this week lazily leaning on his kettle, content to not speak to anyone.

I will always give to the Salvation Army, but I am disenchanted with the process this year. If bell ringers can't be troubled to do their job, I bet a lot of potential donors will not be troubled to give this year. And that is just sad.

Easy peasy Christmas card holder

Christmas cards are flying in and I am running out of room to display them.

Here's another great tip from Melina Gerosa Bellows' "The Fun Book for Christmas:"

Collect tree branches and put them in a large glass vace. Attach Christmas cards with bits of ribbon.

Sounds fun and festive!

Do you have other ideas for how to display Christmas cards?

Give a Christmas gift to your least favorite body part

I just wracked up the savings at Macy's One-Day Sale.

Almost everything is 50 percent off or seriously reduced in price. On top of that, I saved $15 off my purchases with Wow Passes I got from several recent Enterprise papers. Grab some of your back issues and get going!

While you're there, don't forget to pick up a little something for yourself. This week, I read a great tip in Melina Gerosa Bellows' "The Fun Book for Christmas." Bellows writes: Give a Christmas gift to your least favorite body part.

Hmmm, that means some slimming jeans for me!

What are you getting yourself?

He Went to Jared! But what do I get him?

"He went to Jared!" "Every kiss begins with Kay."

I’ve heard these jewelry store slogans more than a few times recently. It seems like every holiday commercial right now is slanted towards a female audience. Yes, you read correctly.

These jewelry commercials are not to give men independent ideas. No, sir.

They are designed to make women dream the man in their life is going to present them with an engagement ring, heart-shaped necklace or diamond earrings while ice skating on a frozen pond to the sweet sounds of some Maxwell love ballad.

Instead, many of you female readers will be presented with a new microwave or vacuum cleaner come Christmas day.

The reason? Men do not watch jewelry commercials and dream of experiencing those fuzzy moments.

Marketing companies, instead, are dependent on women seeing these commercials and putting a bug in their men’s ears — subtly or not — that they want jewelry.

Honestly, I am jealous of men during Christmas. I have no idea of what to give my boyfriend.
There are no commercials that end with "She went to Gamestop!" or "Every catch begins with Academy."

Nope. I have to rely on details in past conversations with him or piggy-back off what my girlfriends are picking up for their boyfriends or husbands.

So, I ask you readers: What are you getting your significant other for Christmas? Tell me by commenting on this post.

Next Saturday, I will reveal your recommendations in The Beaumont Enterprise

Bazaar shopping starts today!

Take a break from retail chains this weekend and spend money with your neighbors.

A Very Merry Main Street Market kicks off tonight at the Beaumont Civic Center. The Junior League of Beaumont's annual shopping extravaganza includes jewelry, crafts, holiday decor and more.

Tonight, shop from 4-8 p.m. One lucky shopper will take home a diamond necklace.

On Friday, the market opens from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday, visit the market from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and catch a glimpse of Santa.

Also on Saturday, the Junior League will give away a 2010 BMW. Tickets are $100 and can be entered in the drawing by contacting the Junior League at (409) 832-0873.

Admission to the Very Merry Market is $5.

--

Other places to get your holiday shopping on this weekend include:

*St. Stephen's Church Holiday Bazaar, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday at 4090 Delaware.

Parishioners will serve gumbo, chili and bread pudding during the free shopping event. Items up for grabs include jewelry, clothing, toys, kitchen items, candles, pottery, baked goods, Christmas decor and more. Call (409) 892-0178 for details.

*The Art Studio Inc. will kick off its Shop-O-Rama at 11 a.m. Saturday. Gift givers can pick up custom art pieces between $20 and $50 during the sale. The Art Studio Inc. is located at 720 Franklin St. For info., call (409) 838-5393.

'Noble Things' available on DVD this Christmas

Need a break from holiday flicks?

I caught this big news on Facebook today:

Noble Things BREAKING NEWS!! NOBLE THINGS WILL BE AVAILABLE ON DVD THIS CHRISTMAS!! AT MAJOR RETAILERS AND AMAZON.COM DECEMBER 22ND. PRE-ORDER YOUR COPY NOW!!!
http://www.amazon.com/

Noble Things, filmed in Southeast Texas, stars Lee Ann Womack and Ryan Hurst.

Check out Enterprise coverage of the film here and here.

Holiday deals that leave you merry and bright

You've got 22 shopping days left till Christmas!

Here are two deals I spied in my morning Enterprise:

-You can buy eight 6-packs of soy melts for $20 at Strawberry Fields Candles & Gifts, 1690 N. Major Drive. Hello? Hot stocking stuffers!

-Have a person who is hard to buy for? Yeah, me too. If they also like to eat, check out Carrabba's gift card bargain. If you spend $100 on gift cards, you receive a $20 gift card in return. MMmm! Free dinner! Carrabba's is located at 1550 Interstate 10 S.

Hey Kellogg, leggo my Eggo!

For the past month, my boyfriend and I have scoured the frozen food aisle at H-E-B for Kellogg's whole wheat blueberry waffles.

Each trip, we cross our fingers that our favorite Eggos will magically appear. Instead, we gaze into a lonely freezer section, scratching our heads as we decide which non-brand waffle to take a chance on.

Wednesday, Kellogg reported there is a nationwide shortage of Eggo frozen waffles. A shortage that might not be made right until the SUMMER!

Interruptions in production at two of the four Eggo plants are to blame, according to the Associated Press.

"The company's Atlanta plant was shut down for an undisclosed period by a September storm that dumped historic amounts of rain in the area. Meanwhile, several production lines at its largest bakery in Rossville, Tenn. are closed indefinitely for repairs, company spokeswoman Kris Charles said in an e-mail," the AP reported.

A loyal Eggo fan, I am not sure what to do about this dilemma. Any substitute recommendations for the best whole wheat waffles?

Gap offers 25 percent off online purchases

Are you a Gap shopper?

Right now, you can save 25 percent off your total purchase at Gap.com with the coupon code GIFT123 at the checkout.

Happy Shopping!

Buy holiday gift cards, score $10 for yourself

Having a hard time deciding what to get your husband's aunt in Idaho? Don't send fruitcake this Christmas, instead send gift cards!

Barnes & Noble is offering a $10 online gift certificate for every $100 worth of gift cards you buy. Themes include snowflakes, Santa and Hannukah.

Looking for something to do tonight?

Goodfella's, the new Beaumont restaurant located behind Mathews Jewelers on Dowlen Road in Tuscany Park (old Poblano Grill location), posted this on their Facebook page tonight: "hope your hungry 'cause the kitchens open at goodfella's tonight!"

If you are in the mood for drinks, check out WineStyles, 4008 Dowlen Road. Owners are offering a wine tasting tonight till 8 p.m. Bottoms up!

Madison's on Dowlen Road is also happening tonight with El Floppy Tacos on the patio stage.

On Thursday night, Madison's will offer "a prime rib dinner, $3 cosmos and 'tinis, $4 bombs and no cover for 21 and up...plus your chance to win backstage passes, a limo, dinners at Madisons and Goodfellas, an acoustic set with Kelly Clarkson and more....but you have to be there to win!" according to thier Facebook page.

Shop like a VIP on Black Friday

Want a Black Friday limo ride and early, VIP access to the best sales?

Best Buy is asking Black Friday shopping pros to share what they're most looking forward to this year.

Winners will receive a $1,000 gift card and VIP treatment. Enter the contest here.

Target rewarding green shoppers

Target announced Monday they will give customers 5 cents back on purchases for every reusable bag used instead of paper or plastic.

Might not sound like much, but why not get paid for loving the earth?

Happy shopping.

Yes Virginia, there is a Santa Claus

Do something to make a child's Christmas brighter this year.

Macy's announced today they will donate $1 to the Make-A-Wish Foundation for every letter to Santa brought in to the store's "Believe Station" - up to $1 million.

(On a side note, Macy's will sponsor the new holiday movie, "Yes, Virginia," at 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 11 on CBS. The animated special will retell the classic "Yes Virginia, there is a Santa Claus.")

Eatin' fresh earlier in the day

I am almost ashamed to admit how excited I was to learn Subway will soon offer breakfast items.

A creature of habit, I eat lunch at the downtown Subway 2-3 times a week. (Always ordering the same thing: 6-inch turkey and ham on wheat).

Now, I can add breakfast to the mix. The chain is expected to offer breakfast sandwiches with various meats, cheese and egg combinations, as well as cinnamon rolls, juice and Seattle's Best coffee. No breakfast start date has been announced, but I suspect Subway will roll out the news with a somewhat irritating commercial for a footlong scramble.

Stollers recalled for amputation risks

Like new parents need another thing to worry about!

The Consumer Product Safety Commission today announced a recall on Maclaren umbrella-style strollers. According to the CPSC, the stroller "poses a fingertip amputation and laceration hazard to the child when the consumer is unfolding/opening the stroller."

So far, a handful of infants have lost fingers to Maclaren strollers.

The recall applies to every umbrella stroller Maclaren has distributed since 1999, according to National Public Radio. The specific models are: Volo, Triumph, Quest Sport, Quest Mod, Techno XT, TechnoXLR, Twin Triumph, Twin Techno and Easy Traveller.

"The company isn't replacing or refunding money spent on the affected models. Instead, Maclaren asks consumer to stop using them 'immediately' and call for a free 'repair kit' to cover the hinge," NPR is reporting.

Yeah, nothing makes you feel secure like repairing a near death-trap with a tiny Allen Wrench and some parts issued by a company that has already sold you faulty equipment.

Yipes! It's getting more expensive to terminate your cell service

I recently broke up with one cellphone provider for another.

My guy was a lying bully who liked to abuse me with random charges and hidden fees. Turns out my new cellphone boyfriend might be just as bad.

According to one tech blogger, Verizon is going to double their early termination fee to $350 on Nov. 15. In short, if you end a real relationship with a spouse or boyfriend/girlfriend, you better be ready to pay some money to get them off your account.

Wal-Mart one-day sale begins Saturday

Saturday, I will be in the merry ol' land of mead and jousting (the Texas Renaissance Festival).

But you can make your own merriment with Walmart's one-day sale. Featured items include a HP 250 GB laptop for $300, a Sony Blu-Ray disc player for $148 and 42-inch Sharp HDTV for $498.

Deals are for in-store shoppers only. Sale starts at 8 a.m.

Happy shopping!

Chrysler bidding adieu to Dakota, Viper and others

Oh Dodge Dakota, we hardly knew ye.

Chrysler (Fiat) is announcing the termination of certain brands and the addition of others.

Next year, be prepared to say good-bye to the Dodge Viper, Caliber and Dakota. In their place, look for a new Charger body style, a commercial van and some kind of new mid-size truck to be named at a later date.

On the larger financial scene, Dodge is planning to introduce a Ram brand, perhaps capitalizing on one of their most popular sales.

Jeep is also saying so long to some models: Jeep Compass, Commander and Patriot. New body styles are expected in coming years for the Cherokee, Liberty and some kind of crossover. The Jeep Wrangler is also expected to be released in 20TEN with diesel engines.

And finally, PT Cruiser fans, it's time to let go of the Monopoly car. Chrysler is pulling the model at the end of next year. But there is a silver lining, Fiat is planning a replacement that will be similar to the Cruiser.

Also look for a new Chrysler 300, Town & Country, Grand Caravan and a new mid-size car in the coming years.

More Black Friday sales released early

Sears has joined the retailer pack releasing Black Friday sales ads early.

Deals include digital picture frames as low as $30 and 32-inch Sony HDTVs from $380. Check out these Sears bargains and more here.

Want a 6.5 foot Christmas tree for less than $40? Click here.

Find Black Friday deals at Gander Mountain, Lowe's, Office Max and Toys R Us here.

Know of any other Black Friday Sales? Let me know!

Win a free trip home for the holidays

Folgers wants to send you home for holidays.

Five grand-prize winners will receive a seven day/ six-night round trip to their hometown (in the continental United States), lodging, a rental car, $1,000 in spending money, a digital camera and a Folgers Gift Basket this December.

All you have to do to enter the contest is tell Folgers (in 200 words or less) your story on "What is the best part of wakin' up at home during the holidays."

You can enter now through Saturday. Winners will be notified sometime after Nov. 11.

Starbucks offering sweet holiday treats

I've got some news to warm your heart (perhaps, more like your gut if you are a stickler for details).

Starbucks will begin offering holiday drinks in their signature "Red Cup" Tuesday. Flavors include Gingerbread Latte, Peppermint Mocha and Eggnog Latte.

I am generally a scrooge about early Christmas marketing campaigns, but this one is too tasty to hate.

Know any queens?

The Nederland Heritage Festival is short a few beauty queens.

I caught this post today on the NHF's Facebook:

"We are desperately looking for Contestants for the Miss Nederland (11th & 12th Grade) Scholarship pageant. We only have 3. There is $3750.00 in scholarship money to be won. At the present we have NO contestants for the Jr. Miss pageant (9th & 10th Grade). Contestants must reside in the Nederland ISD. DEADLINE IS NOVEMBER 13TH. Please let all your Nederland friends know!!!!"

Halloween is over, but there is still time to share your fright

BeaumontEnterprise.com user swampkitty shared this photo of her Halloween monkey. Did you send us your 2009 costume shots?

Upload your Halloween photos here.

Who knows? They might end up in print.

Web site gives sneak peak into Black Friday sales

The beginning of holiday sales started yesterday with the Toys R Us Big Toy Book's Christmas sales section.

All of my married with children friends are already gearing up for Christmas. But, before you go and drop a wad of cash on ZhuZhu Pets, the oddly realistic faux hamsters, check out the Black Friday sales already released here.

Happy Halloween Ray Parker Jr.

Ray Parker Jr.'s "Ghostbusters" was my jam in Kindergarten.
I made my dad listen to that song over and over again on our sweet, car cassette deck.
Long story short, it's no surprise that I love this Pumpkin Dance put to "Ghostbusters".

Enjoy! And Happy Halloween, y'all!

Things Britney should never wear

Yipes! That Britney is stunning in her booty shorts and furry feet. Ladies! Don't mix your seasons.

Free chicken giveaway at KFC

Get your grill on Monday at KFC.

The chicken chain has declared Monday "UnFry" Day and will give out free grilled chicken to customers.

Get out the napkins and arrive early. Most KFC's ran out of grilled chicken when they offered this promotion last spring. Enjoy!

Southeast Texas' own Deal Seeker at your service

Jessica Benton - wife, mother and coupon crusader - wants to help you save money.

Benton, the self-dubbed Southeast Texas Deal Seeker, commented on my post: I may never buy soap again, that she lives for coupons and deals.

Check out Jessica's site here. She's got bargains on groceries, domestic goods and everything in between.

Want to know where your neighbors are doing it?

Get your weekend motors running!

You can now mark your own territory (literally) or find out where folks are doing the deed in Southeast Texas by visiting www.ijustmadelove.com.

From the looks of things last night, nobody in Beaumont was gettin' busy. Must be the swine flu. That, or Must See TV. Our neighbors in Houston and Lake Charles, however, were enjoying make-up sex, lurid positions and using protection.

I guess this is cheap entertainment for "mature" adults. And, as the site will tell you: "Don't ever pay for electricity. You can make it simple and cheap at home."

Meanwhile, back in the land of the living

Hello kiddies,

Sorry I have been MIA for a number of days. I was feeling rather swine-ish.

In the midst of my cough syrup coma, however, I did dream up a few stylish sick bed items I would like to see come about in 20Ten.

1. Skull and crossbones Snuggie.
For when you don't have the strength (or the voice) to tell the man/woman in your life you are too sick for cuddling. Just don your "poison" Snuggie and he/she will get the message to stay away. No questions asked.

2. Jewel bedazalled mask
I see women knitting from time to time while waiting in a doctor's office lobby. In 20Ten, I would like to see those gals bedazzling swine flu masks to give out to those too sick to exchange oxygen with other sick people.(If you've been to a doc's office lately, you know what I'm talking about. Everyone is asked to mask it up these days. Let's give folks their own unique swine style!)

3. DayQuil flasks
My desk at work looks like I knocked off a nurse's station at St. E's. To conceal what ails me, I would like to just combine all my drugs in one stylish flask. That way, I seem cool and sophisticated while chugging combinations of DayQuil, cough medicine and Tylenol. As is, I look like a pathetic user who might be developing a bit of a habit.

Australian host apologizes for blackface Jackson Five parody

Hey Hey, it's about time for an apology.

From The Associated Press:
"An Australian variety show host apologized for a skit in which singers parodying the Jackson Five performed in blackface. American singer and actor Harry Connick Jr., who was serving as a guest judge on Wednesday night's "Hey Hey It's Saturday," was visibly shocked by the skit, in which four men with afro wigs and blackface sang and danced behind a Michael Jackson impersonator wearing white makeup."



It truly was a horrendous performance. It was even more troubling to find out the blackface performers won the variety show 20 years earlier with the same lame skit.

Connick gave the troupe a zero and told them if they had performed in the states: "Hey Hey, there would be no show."

Blackface performances are not common in Australia, The AP reported. "Some Australians said they were embarrassed such a racist sketch had been broadcast, while others said detractors were too politically correct and that the skit was funny," according to news coverage.

Host Daryl Somers apologized to Connick at the end of the live show. "I know that to your countrymen, that's an insult to have a blackface routine like that on the show, so I do apologize to you,'' Somers said. Connick said he would not have appeared on the show if he'd known about the skit, according to The AP. "I just want to say, on behalf of my country, I know it was done humorously, but we've spent so much time trying to not make black people look like buffoons, that when we see something like that we take it really to heart,'' he told Somers after his apology.

I may never buy soap again

You know how some folks brag about how much they spent on a car, an engagement ring, a kid from Cambodia if you are a celeb like Angelina Jolie?

I am the polar opposite. More than once I have looked into my boyfriend's glazed over eyes as I gushed on and on about a bargain I scored in a shop or online.

Well luckily for him, I have you to share the wealth with (literally!)

I recently signed up for a number of freebies and they started rolling in today! WooHoo! I never have to buy soap again.

First up is Procter & Gamble.

I scored samples of Prilosec OTC, Colgate and Snuggle Fabric Softener from P&G. Spend a few minutes surfing around their goodies and sign up for things you really use. It only takes a few minutes and the sampler pack comes with coupons for some of your favorite products.

An advertising banner on Walmart.com led me to free Dove soap samples.

Keep your eyes peeled for freebies and check back here. I will keep you posted as the goodies roll in.

Make something old new again

I wrote Saturday in The Enterprise about my new shopping romance with The Tattered Suitcase, 2590 Calder Ave., where you can take home "well traveled finds."

After gushing about The Tattered Suitcase's impressive collection of antique jewelry — elegant brooches, funky yellow beads and even a princess cut engagement ring - chic handbags and local pieces of art, I received a number of tips from readers about other great places to buy one-of-a-kind finds.

This week, Merle Booker's Yesteryear and Sandra and Tom Arrington invite you to shop their remaining antique inventory (purchased throughout the years in Canton, Texas, Italy, France and England.)

The sale is 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday and 8 a.m. until items are gone Saturday at Forest Park Methodist Church, 225 S. Major Drive, Beaumont.

See photos of some items available for purchase here.

Bridezillas will need to find a new Bible

I have some bad news gals.

You will have to say I do without help from your girlfriends, Modern Bride or Elegant Bride.

Condé Nast Publications announced today it is closing both bridal magazines, as well as Gourmet and Cookie, a parenting magazine created in 2005.

But there is a bit of a silver lining, the parent magazine of the two bride publications, Brides, will be published every month instead of every two months, according to The Associated Pres.

Gourmet, which won a National Magazine Award for its photography this year, is the oldest food magazine in the U.S., having debuted in the 1940s, reported CBC.com.

Conde Nast is blaming the closures on the poor economy and a decline in advertising sales.

Pink treadmill for heroes, not sissies

I have a love/hate relationship with the treadmill in my life. I love the progress I log every time I step off after a successful run and I enjoy the trimming it provides my waistline. But, like most people who aren't in love with running,I hate the work.

Exygon Health & Fitness is offering a little incentive, however, for non-runners like me.

For every mile logged on Exygon's pink treadmill this month, treadmill manufacturer, Cybex International Inc., will donate 10 cents to support breast cancer research. Exygon will also donate $5 to the Julie Roger's "Gift of Life" program for each new member who joins during the month of October, according to a news release issued by Exygon.

Exygon Health & Fitness is located at 6450 Phelan Blvd. For details, call (409) 866-2582.

Buy designer shoes, save a life

It is better to give than to receive. But this month, you can do both!

QVC and the Fashion Footwear Association of New York (FFANY) will broadcast “FFANY Shoes on Sale,” a charitable shoe sale to benefit breast cancer research and education.

Look for 100,000 pairs of discount, brand name shoes from 7-10 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 13 on QVC.

Nine West Footwear Corporation and the Brown Shoe Company, the event’s benefactors, are donating nearly 20,000 pairs each, bringing shoe shoppers brands like Enzo Angiolini, Bandolino and AK Anne Klein as well as Via Spiga, Etienne Aigner and Carlos by Carlos Santana, according to a news release issued by QVC. Other companies donating shoes include MICHAEL by Michael Kors, Coach Footwear, Cape Clogs, Calvin Klein, UGG Australia, New York Transit, Jessica Simpson, Dr. Martens and Birkenstock.

For the past 15 years, QVC Presents “FFANY Shoes on Sale” has sold more than one million pairs of shoes and has donated more than $30 million to the cause, the release said.

If you can't watch the show, pick up the “Shoe of the Day,” offered each weekday throughout the month of October on QVC from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. A collection of shoes will also be available online, at QVC.com throughout the month.

Babes in discount shopping

Sometimes you wanna go ... where you know you look better than everyone else in the room. There is apparently one store that will almost always ensure that - as long as you leave your pimp suit, dear carcass and booty short panties at home.

Check it out here

New favorite: Cougar Town

ABC actually brought the funny Wednesday night.

I was okay with 'Modern Family,' a new series revolving around a family patriarch with a new wife and child, his grown daughter with angst about her teen dating, and his grown son who recently adopted a Vietnamese girl with his overly dramatic boyfriend.

Since I made it through 'Modern Family' without switching over to another network, I stuck around to check out 'Cougar Town' staring Courtney Cox at 8:30.

Cox was phenomenal and looked great. Check it out for yourself:

Journey bringing Ellen on Beaumont tour?

As you all know (if you don't. you've been living under a rock with no TV or radio), Journey is playing Ford Park Sunday!

Enterprise reporter Heather Nolan scored an interview with Journey keyboardist and backup vocalist, Jonathan Cain. (Sorry gang, you'll have to wait to hear Cain's thoughts on Jouney and Steve Perry until Friday's BE.) Cain's publicist also sent Heather a recent shot of the band (pictured right).

While checking out new lead singer Arnel Pineda (or new Steve Perry, as I call him), we realized - much to my amazement - that Ellen Degeneres is touring with Journey!

That woman is everywhere. She has her own daytime show, she's judging American Idol and she's still got time to sing with "Open Arms". I am kidding of course. But my goodness, Ross Valory (far right) is really channelling some Ellen hair in this press shot.

I don't blame him. Everything Ellen touches turns to gold. And let's be honest, it's easier getting into posh clubs and restaurants these days as the face of Cover Girl than "some guy from Journey".

Obama gown makes me cringe

I doubt actress Victoria Rowell's Emmy gown got First Lady Michelle Obama's seal of fashion approval. Not because it displayed the image of her husband, President Barack Obama, but rather because it looked tacky and cheap.

It reminds me of the spools of fabric you can buy at discount stores, but shouldn't. You know, the kind of material donated to home economic classes for practice runs through the sewing machine.

What do you think? An Emmy hit or miss?

'Save Money. Save Lives'

“Yeah, she’s still at M.D. Anderson. They told her breast cancer like hers often spreads to the bones and even the brain.”

It was a quick exchange I heard between two women last week in a gym locker room. One woman was describing the horrific fate of her sister-in-law to another.

It was not my intent to eavesdrop. But, I am glad I did. At 27, I still feel somewhat invincible and I needed this sobering reminder.

Leaving the gym, I contacted my personal doctor and set-up an appointment for a long overdue annual physical. My appointment is Oct. 1, the first day of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. I encourage every woman who needs to get their yearly check-up to make an appointment this month. You can also mark the month by supporting local breast cancer awareness campaigns:

• Get the Pink Shopping Card.
  The Julie Rogers “Gift of Life” program is offering 12 days of discount shopping that will “Save Money. Save Lives.”
  The Pink Shopping Card — available at Central Mall, H-E-B, Kroger, Market Basket, Mobiloil Federal Credit Unions, Munro’s Dry Cleaning and Parkdale Mall — is $50 and good Oct. 22 through Nov. 2 at 650 Southeast Texas stores.
  The card, which is tax deductible, guarantees shoppers 20 percent off savings at participating locations.
  Proceeds will benefit “Gift of Life,” which provides free mammograms for medically underserved Southeast Texas women.
  For more details, call (409) 833-3663 or visit giftoflifebmt.org.
  


• Adopt Biscuit
  Beginning Oct. 1, Dressbarn shoppers can adopt Biscuit, a stuffed plush dog, for $5, according to a news release issued by the company.
  For each Biscuit customers take home, Dressbarn will give $2 to the American Cancer Society to “support local and national breast cancer initiatives,” the release said.
  Dressbarn is located at 4015 Dowlen Road in Beaumont.
  


• Share your wealth of knowledge.
  If you know of other businesses offering campaigns to fight breast cancer, let me know by commenting on this posting.
  Most importantly, encourage the women in your life to get annual breast cancer screenings.

Estee Lauder cuts Prescriptives brand

If you are a fan of Estee Lauder's Prescriptive brand, it's time to start stocking up!

Estee Lauder, the maker of Clinique and Bobbi Brown cosmetics, announced yesterday they are stopping production of the Prescriptives brand Jan. 31.

Prescriptives, carried at Macy's, can be purchased in stores and online while inventory lasts, according to a statement issued Friday by an Estee Lauder spokesperson.

Estee Lauder decided to do away with Prescriptives because of under performing sales, the statement said. The Prescriptives brand has been an Estee Lauder institution for 30 years.

What the pluck?

I've flubbed plenty of words in my day. But thank God I never have an opportunity to share my shame with the world.

"Ernie Anastos (ah-NAST'-iss) of Fox affiliate WNYW was bantering with a weatherman Wednesday night when he cheerfully dropped an F-bomb on the air. What he likely intended to say was, 'Keep plucking that chicken.'Videos of the mistake circulated widely online Thursday, as the phrase took on a life of its own," the Associated Press is reporting.

Plucking mad, the vice president and general manager of WNYW, Lew Leone, told the AP he was``disappointed'' in Anastos' comment. Since, Anastos has said he misspoke and apologized on air to anyone who may have been offended.

Here's the viral video in question:

Cake Wrecks

"Congradulations Rhonda".

It was an embarrassing error scrawled across a cake purchased for a co-worker.

A longtime composing manager charged with proofing advertisements daily for misspellings, the cake mistake did not go unnoticed by Rhonda.

Jen Yates, creator of Cakewrecks.com, has made a sweet living poking fun of mistakes like "Congradulations Rhonda" and worse.

Yates' new book, "Cake Wrecks: When Professional Cakes Go Hilariously Wrong" ($12.95 hardback, Andrews McMeel Publishing) landed on my desk Wednesday, triggering my own cake wreck memory. Co-workers passing by soon caught glimpse of the cover, many sticking close to my desk as they thumbed through the pages, some giggling to the point of tears.

Here's a selection of some of their favorite Cake Wrecks: