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Is imitation synonymous with compliment? Depends on the view.

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 19:09:53 +0100

As popularity grows with any facet of entertainment, imitation creeps behind it's shadow. I've been lucky enough to have experienced this within my own industry. A couple witty clients of mine have sent me links to various other providers' ads and websites containing shamelessly plagiarized content from my website. We're talking full paragraphs actually copied and pasted onto another provider's ad from my own. Yes, I did mention that I'm fortunate enough to have been a victim of theft. My philosophy is one I've adopted from a dear friend of mine whom I confide in when I need a voice of clarity and insight to counter my sassy (yes I'll admit it) impulsiveness. I was borderline frantic, asking her what she would do in my postition, secretly wishing she would tell me she'd understand if I wanted to pour red paint on the people who stole from me. But my wise foresighted friend, as I surmised she would, said the six words that will forever change my coping philosophy as it pertains to conflict. She said "Don't put your energy into it." A subtle and strong reminder that I could choose to waste valuable time confronting my "admirers" but where would it get me?

People will always lack the ability to be original, whether they're escorts or nine to fivers. Inevitably, some will act on desperation overtly enough to steal the creativity of others. If growing more successful means that it's nessessary to gain some barnacles along the way, bring it on! Conveying that I'm a genuine portrayal of my images and verbage on the internet will be challenging when there are little "Bianca DeLaCruzes" all about. But I think savvy, intelligent clients are able to differenciate between those who are genuine and others who choose a dishonest way of marketing themselves. As the popular saying goes, I'm often " imitated but never duplicated."

" Gotta love those curls"

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 19:11:56 +0100

I've decided to try a more natural approach to my locks. My hair is naturally curly and I have to admit, I prefer it that way. It sort of has the dark Victorian look to it that really looks great with a tight black cocktail dress. There's nothing like a head of long wavy hair on bronze skin. It's wonderfully irreverent and non-conformist. On the other hand, having straight hair is also attractive and I think my clients actually prefer it that way. I do occasionally get the question. "Why straighten? I prefer curly." So I'm going to switch it up a bit for you guys. Let me know what you think :-)

Behind the scenes of triumpth

Fri, 06 Jan 2012 19:03:43 +0100

My interest in Independent documentaries has opened a broader perspective of issues I would have never been aware of or contemplated on my own. Awareness of humanitarian subjects, not in only in the United States, but from a global stand point keeps us grounded and gives us a sense of empathy and understanding as people; not just as Americans.
I recently watched a documentary called The Dancing Boys of Afghanistan. I breifly glanced at the synopsis and ratings without giving it much thought. I had no idea that what I was about to watch would alter my views concerning aftermath of the war.
"Bacha Bazi" translates into "boy for play". This term is used to describe a tradition in the Middle East where impoverished young boys between the ages of 8 and 14 are manipulated, lured, then forced into a cult like form of sexual slavery facilitated by men who openly trade and sell them as their personal concubines. The boys are often sold to these predators by their own parents in desperation for food and shelter. In some cases, parents are told their children will be looked after by an "apprentice" or a teacher rather than a slave owner. They're given a stipend for selling the children who are usually under the impression they'll be dancing and performing as groups of rich men throw money at their feet. This is partially true as Bacha Bazi involves the feminization of boys by putting them in colorful dresses, jewelry and make-up while they're expected to perform for groups of pedephiles. After the performance, the boys are traded and sold for sex. The "prettiest" most talented boys are sought after, used for bragging rights or trophies amongst their owners. The film bluntly displays the consequences if a boy refuses to comply with the abuse: Murder and brutal rape is often the outcome.
Bacha Bazi is an ancient tradition dating back hundreds of years. Boys were hired as entertainment for weddings and parties as it was an openly accepted practice in many sub-cultures of the Middle East. The Taliban banned the practice in Afghanistan and for many years, Bacha Bazi didn't exist in most regions. Astonishingly, the soldiers who helped US troops fight the Taliban are some of the predators responsibible for resurrecting Bacha Bazi. The Afghani soldiers are viewed as rich powerful figures who get away serious crimes using bribery and other forms of corruption. It's no wonder the authorities claim they're powerless in hunting down and punishing them. In the past couple of years, the tradition of Bacha Bazi has spread through regions with little fear of punishment from it's perpetrators. It's turned into a not so secret society of pimps, traffickers, and abusers of the most vulnerable children of society.
It's not unusual for a film to educate and move me, however, Bacha Bazi will forever be in my heart and mind. I have since done a fair amount of research and unfortunately, there is very little being done to investigate this horrific barbarity. After highly publicised murders of boys who were forced into Bach Bazi, The U.N and Afghani government has been made aware of it's growing popularity. But when confronted with an expectation of action, the response is always the same; Claims of powerlessness against deep seeded corruption within the government. Apparently, many government officals in charge of punishing those responsible, are perpetrators of harm against boys themselves. What is perhaps the most disturbing reality, is the rapid spread of this practice which has evolved just after the end of Taliban rule. If there is no fear of justice, the practice of Bacha Bazi will only become stronger.

Tasting and smelling Chicago

Thu, 06 Oct 2011 21:53:27 +0100

My preference for cuisine leans toward the unconventional ethnic fare. I'm very grateful to have like minded friends who share my passion for unique flavors. They have shown me the side of the Windy City that deviates from the typical Michigan Avenue offerings to tourists. Chicago is quite an anomaly in the midst of Mid West's love affair with chain restaurants. You certainly won't find savvy Chicagoans eating at Applebees, when there is a perfectly distressed looking Spanish restaurant right down the street. I'm especially fond of a little place called Ñ. It's modest (perhaps even a bit run down) but has become my ATF. It's a difficult task to make a good Mojito; I'm usually disappointed when I make the order at much higher end bars. Ñ makes a nearly perfect Mojito. Paired with their ceviche, it's deliciously palatable.

"Is it getting better or do you feel the same?"

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 20:12:04 +0100