Team Rosters set for WNBA Season!

WNBA Teams Set Rosters for 2010 Regular Season
Posted May 14 2010 5:20PM

NEW YORK, May 14, 2010 – WNBA teams have set their rosters for the 2010 season, which tips off tomorrow with five games on opening day, May 15. The season opens when Diana Taurasi and the defending champion Phoenix Mercury welcome Candace Parker, Tina Thompson and the Los Angeles Sparks to the US Airways Center at 2 p.m. ET on ESPN2. The Tulsa Shock, under the direction of head coach and general manager Nolan Richardson, will make their official debut against the Minnesota Lynx at 8 p.m. ET.

WNBA opening day rosters feature 22 international players from 13 different countries.

Including the opening day game, ESPN2 will air 18 WNBA regular season games. WNBA Tuesdays on ESPN2 begin May 25 when the Shock hosts the Mercury at the BOK Center in Tulsa. All WNBA games on ESPN2 will be available in high definition and on ESPN3.com. This season, WNBA LiveAccess will provide fans the opportunity to watch all regular season games via WNBA.com (local blackout restrictions apply). WNBA games and programming will also reach fans in 203 countries and territories in 27 languages reaching the league’s international fans.

* Players to watch for in Bold

ATLANTA
Alison Bales
Iziane Castro Marques
Erika de Souza *
Chamique Holdsclaw *
Shalee Lehning
Sancho Lyttle
Angel McCoughtry *
Coco Miller (New Team)
Kelly Miller
Armintie Price *
Brittainey Raven

CHICAGO
Mistie Bass
Dominique Canty
Shameka Christon former Liberty
Sylvia Fowles
Sandora Irvin
Cathrine Kraayeveld former Liberty
Abi Olajuwon Oklahoma Standout
Jia Perkins
Epiphanny Prince Rutgers Standout
Erin Thorn former Liberty
Tamera Young

CONNECTICUT
Tina Charles UCONN Standout
Kerri Gardin
Kelsey Griffin
Sandrine Gruda
Allison Hightower
Anete Jekabsone- Zogota
Asjha Jones
Kara Lawson Fomer Monarchs
Renee Montgomery UCONN Standout
DeMya Walker former Monarchs
Tan White

INDIANA
Tully Bevilaqua
Tamika Catchings
Jessica Davenport former Liberty
Katie Douglas
Ebony Hoffman
Briann January
Jessica Moore
Jené Morris
Eshaya Murphy
Allie Quigley
Tammy Sutton-Brown

LOS ANGELES
Marie Ferdinand-Harris
Betty Lennox
DeLisha Milton-Jones
Candace Parker
Ticha Penicheiro former Monarchs
Noelle Quinn
Andrea Riley
Tiffany Stansbury
Tina Thompson
Lindsay Wisdom-Hylton
Kristi Toliver

MINNESOTA
Nicky Anosike
Seimone Augustus
Quanitra Hollingsworth
Charde Houston
Hamchetou Maiga-Ba
Gabriela Marginean
Nuria Martinez
Rashanda McCants
Lindsay Whalen former Sun
Candice Wiggins
Monica Wright

NEW YORK
Nikki Blue
Essence Carson Rutgers Standout
Kalana Greene UCONN Standout
Tiffany Jackson
Janel McCarville
Taj McWilliams-Franklin former Shock
Leilani Mitchell
Cappie Pondexter former Mercury
Nicole Powell former Monarchs
Sidney Spencer
Kia Vaughn Rutgers Standout

PHOENIX
DeWanna Bonner
Candice Dupree Former Sky
Sequoia Holmes
Temeka Johnson
Taylor Lilley
Nicole Ohlde
Brooke Smith
Tangela Smith
Ketia Swanier
Diana Taurasi MVP 2009
Penny Taylor

SAN ANTONIO
Jayne Appel Stanford Standout
Helen Darling
Megan Frazee
Becky Hammon
Roneeka Hodges
Crystal Kelly
Edwige Lawson-Wade
Ruth Riley
Belinda Snell
Michelle Snow
Sophia Young

SEATTLE
Svetlana Abrosimova
Sue Bird
Abby Bishop
Swin Cash
Lauren Jackson
Alison Lacey
Camille Little
Ashley Robinson
Jana Vesela
Le’coe Willingham
Tanisha Wright

TULSA formerly known as Detroit Shock
Chante Black
Kara Braxton
Shanna Crossley former Silver Stars
Amber Holt
Alexis Hornbuckle
Marion Jones former Olympic Medalists
Natasha Lacy
Plenette Pierson
Scholanda Robinson
Amanda Thompson
Shavonte Zellous

WASHINGTON
Matee Ajavon
Alana Beard injured
Marissa Coleman
Monique Currie
Lindsey Harding
Ashley Houts Rookie standout
Crystal Langhorne
Chasity Melvin
Jacinta Monroe
Nakia Sanford
Katie Smith former Shock

We will miss...
Kristen Mann
Loree Moore former Liberty
Lisa Willis former Liberty
Erlana Larkins former Liberty
Ashley Battle former Liberty
Ivory Latta
Courtney Paris Oklahoma Standout
Ashley Paris Oklahoma Standout
Cheryl Ford former Shock

WNBA Updates----Opening DAy 5/16

The latest in WNBA transactions...who's coming and who's going... Well lately its been all going!

Both Paris sisters have been waived from the respective teams. All I can say is wow! Since the WNBA reduced teams to 10 its very difficult to make one of the leagues teams. In addition to the twins, The Shock have officially released Cheryl Ford and today they waived Christi Thomas and Ivory Latta. I feel bad for Latta because his is the same thing that happened last year, yet in the long run she was picked up by Atlanta...so its possible.

The Liberty traded Ashley Houts for Nikki Blue. This is good for Washington. Washington lost Beard so they may need a back up guard. Blue will not make it to opening day with the Liberty. The Liberty still have to drop 1 player to make 10. Will be a tough choice.

Our neighbors to the North, the Conn. Sun have 15 people on their roster, so they will have to do some major decision making in the next couple of day.

Excited for Opening Day this Sunday....Go New York!

2010 WNBA Transactions
Posted May 13 2010 11:43AM

May 13
The Tulsa Shock waived Christi Thomas and Ivory Latta.
May 12
The Phoenix Mercury waived Ashley Paris and Nyeshia Stevenson.
The New York Liberty traded Ashley Houts to the Washington Mystics for Nikki Blue
The Chicago Sky waived Courtney Paris.
May 11
The Tulsa Shock released Cheryl Ford.
The Los Angeles Sparks signed Lisa Willis and waived Karina Figueroa.

Repeat: Sparks and Storm to play outdoor game on June 5th.

Sparks to host Storm in outdoor game
Apr 5, 6:03 pm EDT
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CARSON, CALIF.(AP) —The Los Angeles Sparks will host the Seattle Storm in the WNBA’s second outdoor game.

The Sparks said on Monday that the night game on June 5 will be played in the Home Depot Center’s tennis stadium, which has a capacity of 8,000.

The New York Liberty and the Indiana Fever played the WNBA’s first outdoor game in July 2008 at New York City’s Arthur Ashe Stadium, site of the U.S. Open.

In case of rain, the game would be moved to July 7 and take place in Staples Center.

The game is part of the Sparks’ campaign to promote health through outdoor exercise.

New York Liberty facelift! and other news

MARCH/APRIL WNBA NEWS

Opening day for the WNBA is not to far away and there have been some major team makeovers and with only 132 spots up for grabs teams are trying to find the best match for their team.

New York LIBERTY news...

Ashley Battle (released) will not be returning to the New York Liberty. She is the 4th player (Christon, Kraayveld, and Moore) not returning to the Liberty in 2011. The Liberty has now signed/invited to training camp: McWilliams, Powell, Greene, Pondexter, and Mattera. A whole different look!!!! They kept 7 players from last season: McCarville, Carson,Mitchell, Larkins, Spencer, Jackson and Vaughn. Who will make the cut?

Mazzante - waived
Battle - released
Moore - waived

Other WNBA news:

INDIANA FEVER
Ashley Battle - training camp

Seattle STORM
Svetlana Abrosimova training camp
Janell Burse released
Lori More - training camp

Connecticut SUN
Tamika Whitmore released

Atlanta DREAM
Ivory Latta - waived

Washington MYSTICS
Katie Smith - signed


More to come as opening day quickly approaches...

Marriage....

So I send out an invite to all my FB peeps and urged them to join a site called "Marriage is So Gay". One of my friends responds with this message....

Rene, I am not sure why you would invite me to a site titled "marriage is so gay." You know my stance on marriage, and we respect each others views on opposing matters. I would never invite you to a site that was titled: 'Gay is so Disordered.' You know that I will stand up for your human rights, and I will oppose anyone who wants to disrespect you for your lifestyle, and I would appreciate others respecting my belief as well.

You know what I mean, jelley-bean?

Your friend
Kirth

I respond with....

You know I am going to respond after all. If you sent out an invite that was entitled "gay is so disordered" I would be over it. But I would of hit ignore invite. I wouldn't respond. THE END. Just because I choose to love a man versus a woman doesn't mean I have a DISORDER. That's what I don't like about religion. I deserve the right to marry whoever I choose. I am not a 2nd class citizen. Its a right everyone deserve and in the end god doesn't care who you just to love. Friends accept everything and never would use the word disorder.

New FB status.. I do not have a DISORDER!!!!!! Everyone deserves the right to MARRY!!!!!!! God doesn't not really care who you choose to love as long as you treat everyone with love and respect! I am not perfect but I will not be treated like a 2nd CLASS CITIZEN!

Top 10 television shows of 2010 so far...

Here is a list of my 10 favorite television shows so far in 2009....
1. Project Runway
2. Community
3. America's Next Top Model
4. Cougar Town
5. Shear Genius
6. The Middle
7. Modern Family
8. 30 Rock
9. Parks and Recreation
10.The Celebrity Apprentice















RIP....Ugly Betty and Eastwick







Need to catch up on Desperate Housewives :)

Taj McWilliams signs with the New York Liberty!!

I was really starting to lose my faith in the New York Liberty. I was sad to hear that Shameka and Catherine were traded and then to find out that Ann Donovan will coach only for a year..Wow two very big blows, but patience is a virtue. We now have Taj McWilliams on our side. That is going to make an awesome season. We needed faces and we got them.

I have also been thinking really hard on who will make the 11 team roster this year. Here are my picks, in random order of course....
1. Cappie Pondexter
2. Taj McWilliams
3. Janel McCarville
4. Nicole Powell
5. Essence Carson
6. Kia Vaughn
7. Lealani Mitchell
8. Tiffany Jackson
9. Kalana Greene
10. up for grabs
11. up for grabs

2 additional spots are up for grabs and while 2 ladies will not make the cut. Good luck to all of them.

















WNBA Champion & Six-Time WNBA All-Star Taj McWilliams Signs With Liberty

NEW YORK, NY - April 22 - The New York Liberty has signed unrestricted free agent Taj McWilliams, it was announced today by team President and General Manager Carol Blazejowski. As per team policy, terms of the contract were not disclosed.
"We are delighted to have the opportunity to add another player with championship experience to our roster," said Blazejowski. "Taj will provide a physical inside presence, bring veteran leadership that will help make our frontcourt one of the best in the league, and further position the Liberty to compete for the WNBA Championship this season."

McWilliams joins the Liberty after spending two seasons with the Detroit Shock, where she won the 2008 WNBA Championship. The 6-2 center owns a 12.1 ppg and 7.2 rpg career average through 339 games with 336 starts, and has earned six trips to the WNBA All-Star Game over the course of her 11 WNBA seasons. McWilliams was originally drafted by the Orlando Miracle as the No. 32 overall pick in the 1999 WNBA Draft. She spent four seasons in Orlando, and four seasons in Connecticut when the franchise was relocated and renamed the Sun prior to the 2003 season. Through those eight seasons, she compiled a 12.4 ppg and 7.7 rpg average. McWilliams played for the Los Angeles Sparks in 2007 and the Washington Mystics in 2008 before being traded to Detroit seven games before the end of the regular season.

She began her professional career in 1996 when she was drafted by the Philadelphia Rage of the American Basketball League (ABL) and competed for three seasons.

"I am thrilled to work with Taj again and look forward to all the qualities that she will bring the Liberty, after having a solid, long standing relationship since she played for me with the Philadelphia Rage," said Head Coach Anne Donovan. "Taj has proven to be invaluable on every team she has competed with. Her versatile skill set, strength and durability make her one of the best post players in the WNBA."

The Liberty will tip-off the 2010 regular season at Madison Square Garden on Sunday, May 16 against the Chicago Sky. Individual game tickets are available for purchase by clicking here or visiting The Garden Box Office.

Playing or Praying

The NCAA respect colleges who honor the Sabbath like that of the Mormons? How Rugby is not an NCAA sanction sport. Instead its ran by USA Rugby. If the NCAA were involved this match would of been held on Monday. Instead the BYU ladies rugby team has decided to forfeit their Sunday Round of 8 match against #1Penn State. Should the championship match been moved to Monday to accommodate the schools religious views? Are they quitters? Is this fair to the team from Wisconsin....You decide.



To Pray or Play, That Is Not a Question
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4/18/2010 7:30 PM ET By David Whitley

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David Whitley
National Columnist
SANFORD, Fla. -- The field was empty Sunday. Just a day earlier, the BYU women's rugby players had happily posed for a team photo under the stadium's scoreboard.

The lights said the Cougars had just beaten Wisconsin-Milwaukee 46-7. The score didn't begin to tell their story.

"We won today," Coach Tom Waqa said. "But the girls' biggest opponent is tomorrow. That is adversity."

With a national championship in sight, the Cougars walked away. To advance meant they would have to play Sunday.

As in the Sabbath. As in keep it holy.

As in bye-bye championship.

"It's bittersweet," team captain Kirsten Siebach said. "But it was a decision we had to make."

The players are all members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Perhaps you know them as Mormons. By any name, what they did is almost unheard of these days.

Imagine Kentucky forfeiting a chance to make the Final Four. John Calipari probably wouldn't get a bonus for placing religion ahead of basketball. Or is there a difference in Kentucky?

BYU is the updated Title IX version of Chariots of Fire. In that movie, Scotsman Eric Liddell refused to run in the 100 meters in the 1924 Olympics because it fell on a Sunday.

Instead of running his specialty, the devout Christian started training for the 400 meters. Newspapers called Liddell a traitor to his country. He persevered and won a gold medal.

Sandy Koufax triggered a national debate when he attended a synagogue instead of pitching Game 1 of the 1965 World Series. It was Yom Kippur and Koufax couldn't bring himself to work on the Jewish holy day.

There have been other conscientious objectors to Sabbath play. This may be the first time an entire team has stood up by walking away.

The difference is BYU won't get another chance to compete. And unlike Liddell and Koufax, the Cougars were blindsided into this predicament.

Governing bodies usually accommodate BYU's scheduling wishes. The NCAA classifies women's rugby as an "emerging sport," and doesn't fully sanction it.

It is run by USA Rugby, which inadvertently scheduled games on Saturday and Sunday at the Seminole Soccer Complex. The Cougars said they couldn't play on Sunday, and USA Rugby said it would switch the schedule.

BYU's 35 players raised $10,000 to pay for non-refundable plane tickets to the Sweet 16. That's another thing you'll never see a men's basketball have to do.

To save money, the Cougars arranged to stay with local Mormon families. It's hard to imagine John Wall sharing a bunk bed with the son of a local Wildcat booster.
"They'll be remembered more for this than being champions."
-- Tom Waqa
BYU Women's Rugby Coach
After the plans were set, USA Rugby informed BYU that other teams had made plane and hotel reservations that couldn't be switched.

Too bad, so sad.

Would the Cougars have gone to all that trouble if they hadn't been assured they wouldn't play on Sunday?

"No way we'd do that," Siebach said.

She sounded slightly irritated, which was something of a relief. The Cougars were so magnanimous about their predicament it was almost enough to make me look into becoming a Mormon.

Instead of bellyaching, they went on a mission.

"We saw it as an opportunity to stand up for what we believe we have to do," Siebach said. "We're not trying to tell everybody not to play on Sundays.

"But we'd like to show them it's important to stand up for what you believe in."

Koufax did and became the World Series MVP. Liddell not only won a gold medal, he became a missionary to China and died a hero in a Japanese prison camp. Being true to yourself is a reward far more valuable than a trophy.

With that kind of attitude none of BYU's young women will make it as athletic administrators. College sports are built on compromise, from hiring shady coaches to recruiting Dumbo students.

If ESPN wanted to schedule a game at St. Peter's Square during Papal Mass, teams would fight for the contract. And don't say it's only women's rugby, so nobody would watch even if ESPN paid them.

BYU's women wanted to win a rugby championship every bit as badly as Duke's men wanted a basketball title. Judging from the grass, dirt and sweat covering their white uniforms Saturday, the Cougars certainly worked as hard for their goal.

"We want Penn State!" a fan yelled.

Penn State's the defending national champ. BYU is ranked No. 6.

"No disrespect to the other teams," Waqa said, "but I think we could play well against any Division 1 team."

So playing Devil's Advocate, why not just do it?

Siebach just smiled.

"As members of the church, we're committed to its standards and commandments," she said. "And one of them is to keep the Sabbath day holy. Everybody may not understand that."

No, but we should all understand principles. And nowadays when anybody refuses to compromise theirs, it's worth applauding.

"They'll be remembered more for this than being champions," Waqa said.

Let's hope so, though the sports world's attention hasn't exactly been focused on the Seminole Soccer Complex the past few days. On Sunday, there was only an empty field and a blank scoreboard.

Penn State reluctantly accepted the forfeit and advanced to the Final Four. BYU's women reluctantly boarded a plane, taking their next opponent with them.

Adversity?

It didn't stand a chance.

Remembering Dixie Carter

Dixie Carter, Spirited Actress and Chanteuse, Dies at 70
By Robert Simonson
11 Apr 2010

Dixie Carter

Dixie Carter, the stage and television actress who played the tempestuous and fiercely dignified Julia Sugarbaker for seven seasons on television's "Designing Women," and carved out a late career as a nightclub singer, died April 10. She was 70.

Of the four spirited females that ran the Atlanta-based Sugarbaker interior design company—the others were played by Annie Potts, Jean Smart and Delta Burke—Ms. Carter's Julia was the most authoritative and opinionated, and clearly the mother hen. Many episodes climaxed with her launching into a comical tirade about the bad behavior of her fellow human beings, the clear intimation being that the end of civilization was just around the corner.

Ms. Carter sometimes complained that the liberal politics espoused by Julia—shared by the show's creator Linda Bloodworth-Thomason and her husband Harry Thomason (both friends of President Clinton)—were in direct opposition to her own conservative views. She forged a deal with Bloodworth-Thomason that, for every time she was an unwilling leftish mouthpiece, she would be given an opportunity to sing on the show.


The actress took her life-long love of singing to a new professional level after leaving "Designing Women," appearing at such select New York cabarets as Cafe Carlyle and the Oak Room. She was known for championing the work of composer John Wallowitch, who often joined her as accompanist. The two artists met in Greenwich Village in the 1960s, when Ms. Carter had just moved to New York. She also sang as the villainous Mrs. Meers in the Broadway musical Thoroughly Modern Millie.
Dixie Carter made her professional stage debut in a Memphis production of Carousel. Moving to New York in 1963, she won a part in A Winter's Tale. An eight-year hiatus from acting soon followed, during which she married businessman Arthur Carter and gave birth to two children. She returned to her profession by taking on work in the soap operas "One Life to Live" and "The Edge of Night."

Meaningful success started to come as she approached her mid-30s. She received a Theatre World Award for Jesse and the Bandit Queen in 1976, and was nominated for a Drama Desk Award for her performance in Fathers and Sons Off-Broadway in 1979. Around this same time, she made two brief appearances in Broadway musicals, 1974's Sextet and a 1976 revival of Pal Joey.

Dixie Carter was born May 25, 1939, in McLemoreville, TN, (her first husband shared her last name and was no relation). Her earliest dreams were of becoming an opera singer. A botched tonsillectomy when she was seven, however, ruined her chances. Still, she studied singing and classical music and learned to play the piano, trumpet, and harmonica. She graduated from Memphis State with an English degree. Ms. Carter retained her southern accent in most her performances, adding a headstrong, subtly sexy tinge to the characters she portrayed.

"I started performing for a quart of strawberries when I was two," she told Playbill. "I sang a song in Sunday school, and my reward was a quart of fresh strawberries. I don't know whether it had to with that or, probably, more with my parents being very loving individuals. I always come to an audience expecting that they're just gonna love what I have to do for them and [love] me, too. I'm scared to death and very nervous, but I love the audience, the people in the audience."

If she never got to be an opera singer, she did get to play one on stage, being the third and last actress to play Maria Callas in the hit Broadway production of Master Class.

Dixie Carter was married three times. She and Arthur Carter were married in 1967 and divorced in 1977. Her second union, to actor George Hearn, lasted from 1977 to 1979. Actor Hal Holbrook, whom she wed in 1984, and who had a recurring role as Julia Sugarbaker's love interest in "Designing Women," and frequently performed together on stage, survives her. She is also survived by Mary Dixie and Ginna, daughters from her first marriage.

O.M.G. Moment: Wendy Williams Show - Guest Omarosa

Is it real or fake? If I was Wendy, I would of asked her to leave!

ANTM - End of the Season News ! Teyona and Paulina

Now that ANTM is over..It's time to just add my final thoughts...

Teyona Anderson, of New Jersey captured the title on last night's season finale of the wanna-be a model show. This is not the first year in which a winner has been chosen that I personally don't agree with. I will admit though that Teyona was very consistent throughout the competition and always avoided drama. She received a lot of hate from several contestants, because she had what they lacked. She wasn't my favorite to win the modeling competition. My favorite was Celia, but the judges obviously didnt agree and felt although she had amazing style she was just to old to be a model. I also didn't agree with Allison Harvard being in the Top 2. Honestly the girl was a train wreck, Aminat should have been in the final 2 with Teyona. Oh well congrats to Teyona and good luck to all the girls.

In other ANTM news...It seems Paulina will not be returning to the show next season. Paulina was in the words of Mr. Trump "Fired" by Tyra. The reason fired, her ego was way too big. Poor Paulina...who will replace her next. I say bring back Twiggy or hell why not bring back my favorite supermodel, the bitch with all the attitude Janice Dickinson...

Read more below...






Woodstown native Teyona Anderson wins 'America's Next Top Model' competition
by Jennifer Dailey, Today's Sunbeam
Wednesday May 13, 2009, 10:01 PM

After weeks of photo shoots and challenges, Woodstown, New Jersey, native Teyona Anderson is America's next top model.

She battled it out with 12 other finalists over the last couple months on the CW Network's "America's Next Top Model" to win the title tonight. While considered a quiet hometown girl in the beginning, her looks and fierce attitude helped put her on top.
Photo special to Today's Sunbeam/ Frank Ockenfels / The CW & Co.; 2009 The CW Network, LLC. All Rights Reserved.Woodstown, New Jersey, native Teyona Anderson has won the "America's Next Top Model" competition.

As the winner of "America's Next Top Model," Anderson, 20, will receive a contract with Elite Model Management. She will also receive a $100,000 contract with cosmetics company CoverGirl.

She will also appear on the cover and in a six-page spread in "Seventeen" magazine.
It's been a little over two months since the show started. It began with 13 finalists and ended up with the final three -- Anderson, Allison Harvard and Aminat Ayinde.

The season finale started with the three finalists filming a CoverGirl commercial for the company's new lip stain and a CoverGirl headshot for the campaign of the product.

When it came time for elimination, Harvard was called to safety first putting Anderson and Ayinde in the bottom two. This was the first time Anderson was in the bottom two on the show. However, it wasn't her time to go as Ayinde was sent home.

This put Anderson in the finals against Harvard, known for her large eyes, in a Brazilian fashion show for the title. The two also did their photo shoot for the headshot that the winner will have featured on the cover of "Seventeen."

During the final elimination tonight, the judges went over Anderson's and Harvard's runway walk as well as their portfolio of pictures. Once the judges finished reviewing the body of work between the two young women, they went into deliberation over who should win.

After all was said and done, Anderson came out on top winning the title of "America's Next Top Model" over Harvard.

Throughout the competition, Anderson was a favorite of the judges. From day one, they were mesmerized by her facial features stating her face looks as if it is wind-blown.

Other then her consistency throughout the competition, judges pointed out in their deliberations that Anderson wanted to win the most.

Tyra Banks, creator and host of the show, was a big fan of Anderson's from the beginning.

Anderson was raised in Woodstown, Salem County, surrounded by family as she lived with her mom, brother, uncle, grandmother and grandfather.

Then at the age of 14, her family moved to Elkton, Md., where she would go on to be very active while attending Elkton High School.

As a student at the school, she was on the track and field team as well as the basketball team. Teyona also volunteered at an elementary school.

When Anderson's picture came up showing she had won on tonight's season finale, she was overcome with joy.

In an interview at the beginning of the competition, she said it was her personality that gave her an edge in the competition. She also said she's not the type to let things get to her.

A lot of times in her photo shoots, it was her personality that made it a joy for photographers to work with her.

"I just have a good personality and a lot of energy. I just keep everything moving so I think that gives me an edge over the competition," she said.





Top Model: Celia Says Age Can't Hold Her Back

Thu., May. 7, 2009 11:53 AM PDT by Natalie Abrams
ANTM, Celia Ammerman Tyra Banks/Pottle Productions Inc

Even though Tyra Banks said see ya to Celia Ammerman last night on America's Next Top Model because she thought she was too old to make it to the top, age doesn't seem to be hindering the 25-year-old Kentucky gal one bit. "It doesn't seem to be hurting me at the moment. There is life after ANTM if you're older than 25," Celia says.

She's right about that. Celia was late phoning us today because she was wrapping up her photo shoot for the New York Post. Check this Sunday's Style section for her Post debut.

So how did she feel about Tyra telling her to go into fashion or styling instead of modeling?

"[That] is really sweet, and I would love to do those things as well," Celia says, "but modeling is definitely something that I'm so passionate about and will continue to pursue as long as I possibly can. It's like having a two-headed baby. I love them both the same. If I do either one I'll be happy."

Still, Celia knew how the game was played and wasn't offended by Tyra straight up telling her not to model. "I understand it's a show, so I understand there needed to be a reason that I needed to be eliminated. But I couldn't be offended by that because there's nothing I could do about it. I hate to say it, [but] they knew the entire time how old I was, and they knew how I photographed. With an industry obsessed with age, I felt like this was an opportunity for Tyra to say that age doesn't matter as long as you photograph well and present yourself and have all the facets of modeling. Age shouldn't matter."

Celia did, however, feel there was someone else behind her elimination. "I feel like Ann Shoket had a definite say in who she wanted to be representing Seventeen magazine, and I was not one of them. And Paulina [Porizkova] as well. I really actually like Paulina, but I think near the end, she couldn't see me winning it."

Are you surprised Celia was sent packing last night, or was it long past her time? How about Celia's accusations about Ann Shoket being ageist? Hit the comments with your thoughts.









Paulina Fired From ANTM

Tomorrow's finale won't just be Allison, Aminat, and Teyona's last time on America's Next Top Model, the finale will also be judge Paulina Porizkova's last ANTM appearance. During an apperance on tonight's Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson, Paulina says she was let go by Tyra Banks and America's Next Top Model.
When Craig Ferguson asked Paulina how it was working with Tyra Banks, Paulina broke the shocking news. "Listen, do you know why I am in Los Angeles...because I am looking for a job. Because I was fired by America's Next Top Model on my birthday." A birthday firing? Ouch!
A quick wikipedia check reveals that Paulina's birthday was April 9th, so the supermodel stunner was fired just over a month ago. It sounds like no love is lost between Paulina and her now former employer, "The reason I was told I was fired was because, it seemed that America's Next Top Model has gotten too fat and they needed to cut some fat and the fat was me." Paulina later said she figured the other reason she was fired was, "My gigantic huge ego. Which I wasn't aware of until I was told by the producers that I have an ego problem." Sounds like it was not a pleasant ending for either party.
Paulina joined America's Next Top Model as a judge during Cycle 10 as a replacement for Twiggy.

Miss Gay USofA - Carrie Fairfield.com Post...

Miss Gay USofA kicks off May 19 in Dallas Texas who will win...

Ok so I can't find a post that talks about Top 12 predictions at USofA this year. If its on here, sorry about the duplication. There are a lot of strong entertainers and by the looks of it it looks like its anyone's crown to take. I especially see a few past MGA contestants cracking the 12 this year. Here are my choices in any order...

Stasha Sanchez Top 5
Amaya Mann
Dominique Sanchez Top 5
Dorae Saunders
Leyla O'hara Top 5 and my pick for Miss Gay USofA 2009
Alina Maletti
Natasha Braxton
Coti Collins Top 5
Sasha Andrews Top 5
Summer Knight
Josephine Andrews
Page Passion

On the Bubble on pushing someone out: Tiffany Rachels (would love to see her crack the 12)

Anywho this are my choices....Good Luck to everyone competing. Safe trips to all.

Cheers

Shanna Moakler resigns from post at California USA

Today former Miss USA and Director of the the Miss California USA pageant Shanna Moakler stepped down from the position. The news comes a day after Donald Trump made the announcement that the MUO will not be pulling the reigning Miss California USA Carrie Prejan's crown after risque semi-nude photos appeared all over the internet. Today Moakler, a huge supported of Gay Rights and Gay Marriage made an announcement saying, "Since the press conference yesterday, I had a chance to think about what has taken place, and I feel that at this time it is in my best interest to resign from the Miss California USA organization"

Check out the stories below...







MISS CALIFORNIA FALLOUT: Shanna Moakler Resigns
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JOHN ROGERS | May 13, 2009 05:09 PM EST | AP


FILE - In this May 11, 2009 file photo, Miss California USA Pageant state executive director Shanna Moakler participates in a news conference in Beverly Hills, Calif.

LOS ANGELES — Former beauty queen Shanna Moakler has resigned as executive director of the Miss California USA pageant, a day after controversial titleholder Carrie Prejean (pray-ZHAN) was allowed to keep her crown.

Moakler, a former Miss USA , said in a statement issued by her publicist Wednesday that she no longer believes in the organization.

She had angrily accused Prejean on Monday of violating the contract she signed with pageant organizers by speaking out repeatedly on behalf of organizations opposed to gay marriage and by failing to disclose she had posed nearly nude for photographs as a teenager.

Pageant owner Donald Trump, who could have ousted Prejean, said Tuesday she will remain Miss Calfornia.

THIS IS A BREAKING NEWS UPDATE. Check back soon for further information. AP's earlier story is below.

LOS ANGELES (AP) _ Former beauty queen Shanna Moakler has resigned as executive director of the Miss California USA pageant, a day after controversial titleholder Carrie Prejean (pray-ZHAN) was allowed to keep her crown.

Moakler, a former Miss USA , said in a statement issued by her publicist Wednesday that she no longer believes in the organization.

She had angrily accused Prejean on Monday of violating the contract she signed with pageant organizers by speaking out repeatedly on behalf of organizations opposed to gay marriage and by failing to disclose she had posed nearly nude for photographs as a teenager.

Pageant owner Donald Trump, who could have ousted Prejean, said Tuesday she will remain Miss Calfornia.



People: Shanna Moekler resigns pageant post over Trump's decision.
By Tony Hicks
Contra Costa Times
Posted: 05/13/2009 03:29:01 PM PDT
Updated: 05/13/2009 03:32:59 PM PDT

Former Miss USA Shanna Moakler resigned as co-executive director of the Miss California USA pageant Wednesday after her boss Donald Trump allowed Miss California Carrie Prejean to keep her crown.

Good for you, Shannon. Beauty queens have no business posing for nudie pictures. Unless, of course, they go full-frontal, like you did in Playboy.

At a news conference Monday, Moakler accused Prejean of violating her contract with pageant organizers by speaking out on behalf of organizations opposed to gay marriage and by failing to disclose she posed nearly nude for photographs before entering the state pageant.

On Tuesday, Trump defended Prejean's statements that marriage should be exclusive to men and women, saying her position was similar to President Barack Obama's. Although he acknowledged the photos of Prejean were "risque," they weren't bad enough to get her booted.

Moakler, Miss USA 1995, decided after the news conference to quit. "I cannot with a clear conscience move forward supporting and promoting the Miss Universe Organization when I no longer believe in it or the contracts I signed committing myself as a youth," she said in a statement issued by her publicist.

Prejean, who was the first runner-up at last month's Miss USA pageant, created a brouhaha when she responded to a question by celebrity judge Perez Hilton by saying, "I believe that a marriage should be between a man and a woman. No offense to anybody
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out there, but that's how I was raised."

Prejean, 21, then spoke without permission in front of crowds opposed to gay marriage, including her San Diego church and the National Organization for Marriage. Then she began missing Miss California events she was contractually obligated to attend. Then she began punching old people and eating puppies.

Trump, who coincidentally really seems to like blondes, blamed some of that on what he said was miscommunication between Prejean, pageant organizers and the outside groups.

Miss CA keeps her Crown...

I hope we can put this whole Carrie Prejean issue to an end.

The Donald has spoken and life goes on. Not everyone agreed with Miss California's final answer on the subject on GAY MARRIAGE. As I said before I am not against Carrie's final answer. She stated her honest opinion on her view on gay marriage and she shouldn't be penalized. As a open gay male, I completely want gay marriage to pass here not just in NYC but throughout the entire country. There are always going to be people who are going to be for or against very delicate subject matters.This is what makes this country what it is. In the end. Carrie also said she doesn't have a hidden agenda and isn't speaking on behalf of any organization supporting the ban against gay marriage.

On to the photos...I agree with Carrie's comments on Headline News..who ever released the photos should be ashamed of themselves. This was clearly an attempt to add hatred to Carrie's character and add fire to flame regarding the issue of Gay Marriage.

I also commend Donald for staying out of the Gay Marriage debate and also inviting Perez Hilton back to the Miss Universe Organization.

This battle of course isn't over and will continue on...

WTF... More WNBA News on Trades

We all know that the WNBA kicks off the 2009 season in less than a month, so with that being said teams are adding and cutting rosters like crazy. One of my favorite players Kelly Schumacher, for Fever and Liberty star, has just been signed to the Washington Mystics, good news for her, however by signing her the Mystics have waived Coco Miller. Will Miller now have the opportunity to join her sister Kelly in Minnesota or will she be rescued by another team? Only time, which is running out, can tell?

Katie Feenstra Mattera signs a contract to play with the Silver Stars after she was waived by Detroit. This is Katie's second go around with the team.

Check out both stories below....


Mystics Add Schumacher to Roster
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Posted May 11 2009 8:01PM

Washington, D.C. – General Manager Angela Taylor announced today the team had added 6-4 Center Kelly Schumacher to its roster. An eight year WNBA veteran, Schumacher has played for the Indiana Fever and New York Liberty. She also won back to back WNBA championships in 2007 and 2008 as a member of the Phoenix Mercury and Detroit Shock teams.

“We are pleased to announce the addition of Kelly Schumacher to the Mystics organization. She brings tremendous size, quality professional experience, and a championship mentality to our team while complimenting our other low block posts. Kelly is extremely versatile, stretches the defense with her face up game, has an extremely high basketball IQ and is a proven winner. She is a good shot blocker and values team,” said Taylor. “Coach Julie Plank had the opportunity to coach Kelly in Indiana and is excited about what she brings to our team. Several teams were interested in signing Schu this season, so we are ecstatic that she was excited about becoming part of our efforts to build a championship organization.”

Schumacher was selected in the first round (14th overall) in the 2001 WNBA draft by the Indiana Fever. She has averaged 5.0 points per game and 3.1 rebounds per game during her career. Schumacher has made playoff appearances with the Fever, Mercury and Shock and averaged 3.0 points per game and 2.9 rebounds per game. averaged 3.0 points per game and 2.9 rebounds per game. She finished the 2008 season ranked 13th in blocks and 18th in rebounds.

A graduate of the University of Connecticut, Schumacher won an NCAA National Championship in 2000 with the Huskies. She is ranked third in career blocked shots (181) on Connecticut’s all-time list. Schumacher was the recipient of the WNBA’s Community Assist Award for her community service during the 2002-03 off-season.

The Washington Mystics will tip off the 2009 season on Saturday, June 6 on the road against the Connecticut Sun. Washington will host the club’s home opener on Sunday, June 7 against the Atlanta Dream. Season and group tickets for the 2009 season are currently on sale and can be purchased by calling the Mystics Sales Office at 1-877-DC-HOOP1 or by visiting the Mystics website at www.washingtonmystics.com

The Washington Mystics organization is dedicated to providing affordable entertainment, serving as an impactful community partner and maintaining accessibility to positive female role models. Supported by passionate fans, the Mystics are elite, hardworking athletes continually striving to win a Championship.



May 11, 2009
Silver Stars Sign Katie Feenstra Mattera

SAN ANTONIO – The San Antonio Silver Stars have signed center Katie Feenstra Mattera to a free agent contract, Head Coach and General Manager Dan Hughes announced today. Per team policy, terms of the contract have not been released.

“We are pleased to have Katie join the Silver Stars,” said Hughes. “She will add an interior presence with strong rebounding, plus she is an outstanding teammate.”

The Silver Stars first picked up Mattera in a 2005 trade with Connecticut. The 6’8” center spent the 2005 and 2006 seasons with San Antonio, averaging 8.8 points and 5.1 rebounds per game in 2005, then 7.8 points and 6.1 rebounds per game in 2006. Following the 2006 season, San Antonio traded Mattera to Detroit for Ruth Riley. Mattera appeared in 34 games for the Shock, averaging 5.2 points and 4.9 rebounds per game. The Shock advanced all the way to the WNBA Finals that season, losing to Phoenix in the championship round with Mattera starting nine of 11 Detroit playoff games.

Mattera spent the 2008 season with the Atlanta Dream, averaging 6.7 points and 3.9 rebounds per game in 33 games. Throughout her four-year WNBA career, she has averaged 7.1 points and 5.0 rebounds per game in 135 games and 44 starts.

The defending Western Conference Champion Silver Stars open the 2009 season on the road at Phoenix before coming home to host the New York Liberty Saturday, June 13 with Dads and Daughter’s night in honor of Father’s Day.

John Lennon Remembered at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Annex in Soho

Last night Yoko Ono and many others attended the opening of an exhibit dedicated to the late John Lennon entitled John Lennon: The New York City Years. The exhibit features many never before seen items from Ono's personal collection. The exhibit also speaks out about gun violence and ask viewers to add their names to a petition that will be sent to President Obama once the exhibit closes. I highly recommend checking this beautiful and truly inspiring exhibit out.

Check out the full story below...

Yoko Ono unveils John Lennon exhibit in NYC
Updated 16h 57m ago | Comments 10 | Recommend 1 E-mail | Save | Print | Reprints & Permissions | Subscribe to stories like this
All she is saying: Yoko Ono gives a peace sign a chance at the opening of John Lennon: The New York City Years exhibit at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Annex in New York on Monday.
Enlarge image Enlarge By Lucas Jackson, Reuters
All she is saying: Yoko Ono gives a peace sign a chance at the opening of John Lennon: The New York City Years exhibit at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Annex in New York on Monday.


By Elysa Gardner, USA TODAY
NEW YORK — "John was in love with this city, head over heels," Yoko Ono said Monday of her late husband, the subject of John Lennon: The New York City Years, a new exhibit that launched Monday at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Annex NYC.

Speaking at the annex in downtown Manhattan, Ono said it was "very important for me to make this New York City show complete." To do so, she and curator Jim Henke tapped into collections honoring Lennon at both the Hall of Fame?s museum in Cleveland and the John Lennon Museum in Japan. "And I went through my closet again," Ono said.

The exhibit chronicles not only Lennon's enduring love affair with the Big Apple, but also the trials he faced and his violent death. The ex-Beatle's battle against deportation during the Nixon era, when his anti-war activism was considered suspect, is documented with his green card and previously unseen letters from supporters ranging from Joan Baez to former New York mayor John Lindsay.

There's also a billboard featuring Lennon?s blood-splattered glasses that marked the 20th anniversary of his death. (Ono used the same image on the cover of her 1981 album Season of Glass.)

The decision to include that item "was pretty hard," Ono said. "I thought I might be criticized for it.. .. But it's very important now for people to understand what violence is about."

The discussion was generally lighter, with Ono referring several times to Henke, the Hall of Fame's vice president of exhibitions and curatorial affairs, who sat beside her. "I'm not a curator, I'm just a sideshow," Ono quipped.

Ono noted that Lennon enjoyed the "element of anything goes" in New York, and that she doesn't agree with New Yorkers who lament how the city has changed in recent decades: "Change is New York. I accept that. I've gone through so many changes here."

Speaking after the conference, Ono observed that New York "meant freedom to (Lennon) in some ways. I think he realized even London had elements of conservatism, but here he felt freer. That's why when he came here, it was, 'Whoopee! I'm in New York.' "

In homage to the city that never sleeps, the annex will extend its hours while showing John Lennon: The New York City Years, which as yet has no official end date. The exhibit will be open Sundays through Thursdays from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. ET and until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays.

Ten Favorite TV Show in 2009 - What I'm Watching

Here is a list of my 10 favorite television shows so far in 2009....

1. Ugly Betty
2. Desperate Housewives
3. America's Next Top Model
4. In The Motherhood
5. Samantha Who
6. I Love Money 2
7. Charm School with Ricki Lake
8. 30 Rock
9. Daisy of Love
10. The Cougar

Ugly Betty: First Rebecca no Ashley... Who's Next?

Ugly Betty is starting to get on my gay nerve. First Rebecca Romijn's contract isn't renewed and she leaves the show. I loved her on the show and just love her as an actress. She also gave transsexuals a place on the main stream tv. Candis Cayne was on DirtySexyMoney for a bit but like all good actresses she faded off the show. But now I just learned that British actress Ashley Jensen has exited the show. Ashley was amazing as Christina so I will start to wonder who will replace Jensen as Betty's sidekick and BFF on the show....I'm sad. Check out the full story below courtesy of The Ausiello Files...




Scoop: Ashley Jensen exits 'Ugly Betty'

Mar 11, 2009, 06:06 PM | by Michael Ausiello

Categories: Ugly Betty

Ashleyjensenuglybetty_l Ashley Jensen is leaving Ugly Betty at the end of the season, and I know this because... she was just cast as a series regular in the CBS comedy pilot Accidentally on Purpose!

A rep for CBS/Paramount confirms that Jensen is joining the cast of Accidentally, which revolves around a San Francisco movie critic (Jenna Elfman) who finds herself "accidentally" pregnant after a fling with a much younger man.

Jensen's Betty departure hardly comes as a surprise. The actress was less than thrilled when Betty moved its production from Los Angeles to New York. In fact, Jensen was the only cast-member not to relocate to the Big Apple full-time -- making for one hellish cross-country commute. Add to that the fact that she was barely visible on Betty this season and you have the makings of what an ABC insider calls "a completely mutual" parting of the ways. (BTW, props to my Frenemy for making my story look extremely dated first reporting Jensen's exit back in January.)

"While we're sad that Ashley will not be returning next season as a series regular, she is still a member of the Ugly Betty family," Ugly Betty exec producer Silvio Horta said in an exclusive statement. "So don't be surprised if you see Christina pop back up in Betty's life."

Thoughts on a Jensen-less Betty? Sound off below!

NY Gets Sidney Spencer from LA

Finally the Liberty make a player deal. The Liberty have acquired Sidney Spencer from the LA Sparks. They also received an additional first round draft pick for 2010. Sidney is an amazing player so I am sure she will easily steal one of the 11 spots.

Here are my top 8 picks
Shameka Christon
Cathrine Kraayeveld
Janel McCarville
Essence Carson
Loree Moore
Tiffany Jackson
Ashley Battle
Kia Vaughn

The other players will probably battle for the remaining 3 spots.... I see these players battling it out...it's sad the league cut the teams from 13 to 11. i understand the economy and this was probably a way to save the league from destruction.

Players on the Bubble...
Jessica Davenport
Sidney Spencer
Erlana Larkins
Lisa Willis
Leilani Mitchell
Abby Waner


Liberty Acquires Guard Sidney Spencer From Los Angeles In Exchange for 2010 1st Round Draft Pick
New York, Los Angeles and Minnesota Complete Three-Team Trade

NEW YORK, NY – May 5 – The New York Liberty has acquired guard Sidney Spencer from the Los Angeles Sparks in exchange for the Liberty’s first round pick in the 2010 WNBA Draft, it was announced today by team president and general manager Carol Blazejowski. As per team policy, terms of the contract were not disclosed. Los Angeles has sent the first round pick and forward Raffaella Masciadri to the Minnesota Lynx in exchange for guard Noelle Quinn.

Originally drafted by Los Angeles as the 25th overall pick in the second round of the 2007 WNBA Draft from the University of Tennessee, Spencer owns a 7.5 ppg and 3.0 rpg career average. Last season, the 6-3 guard appeared in 33 regular season games with two starts, averaging 13.7 mpg, 5.3 ppg and 1.9 rpg. With a 38.3 three-point shooting percentage she capped her sophomore campaign ranked 11th in the WNBA amongst long range shooters.

New York’s season will open on Sunday, June 7 at 4:00 p.m. against Eastern Conference foe, the Connecticut Sun, in front of the Madison Square Garden crowd. Individual game tickets beginning at $10, are on sale now by clicking here , visiting The Garden Box Office, calling (877) WNBA-TIX or stopping by any Ticketmaster outlet.

Fever sign Tameka Dixon

I was extremely thrilled when I heard that the Indiana Fever signed Comets player Tameka Dixon. Hopefully Dixon will give it her all and be one of the 11 players selected to play this season. Currently there are 15 women vying for a spot. Anyway you look at it l the Fever are definitely putting together an A+ team.

My 8 Fever Picks:
Catchings
Douglas
Bevilaqua
Sutton-Brown
Hoffman
Griffith
T. White
Dixon

The remaining 3 spots are definitely up for grabs but I would love to see Briann January and another rookie make it in.


Here's the full scoop on the signing of Dixon courtesy of Fever.com

FEVER SIGNS THREE-TIME WNBA ALL-STAR TAMECKA DIXON

News Release | May 4, 2009 Three-time WNBA All-Star and one of the league's all-time leading scorers, Tamecka Dixon has signed a free agent contract with the Indiana Fever. Dixon, who has played in the WNBA since its inception in 1997, is 21st on the league's career scoring list with 3,368 points. She has played the last three seasons with the Houston Comets. Per team policy, terms of the contract are not disclosed.

Dixon spent her first nine years in the WNBA with the Los Angeles Sparks, winning championships with that team in 2001 and 2002. She was on the Western Conference All-Star team in 2001, 2002 and 2003. She was selected to start for the West in 2003, replacing the injured Cynthia Cooper. Dixon is among the WNBA's career top 10 in assists (eighth) with 924 and is 20th in league history in steals with 342.

The Indiana Fever celebrates its 10th anniversary season in 2009, opening the summer season at Atlanta on Saturday, June 6 (7:00 p.m.), and hosting the Minnesota Lynx on June 7 (7:00 p.m.) – exactly 10 years after the franchise was founded (June 7, 1999). Led by Griffith, two-time Olympic gold medalist and five-time WNBA All-Star Tamika Catchings, Olympic silver medalist Tully Bevilaqua, 2008 WNBA Most Improved Player Ebony Hoffman and two-time WNBA All-Stars Katie Douglas and Tammy Sutton-Brown, the Fever bids for its fifth consecutive playoff appearance in 2009. Season tickets are available at FeverBasketball.com, or by calling (317) 917-2500.