Eva Longoria, Piers Morgan, and divorce and cheating

So, I just watched this clip of Eva Longoria talking about her marriage breakdown:

http://www.mrpaparazzi.com/post/14689/Eva-Longoria-fights-back-the-tears-as-she-talks-about-marriage-split-for-the-first-time.aspx

What struck me is the sentiment UK interviewer Piers Morgan expressed... how could anyone cheat on her.

He says in the clip: "People watching this... Like I, having met you... incredulous that this could happen. That any guy would even think or contemplate of... doing anything to damage a marriage to someone like you. What more could a guy want, frankly?"

I certainly feel the same - and yet it's a little offensive.

Like women who aren't as attractive, who don't spend every waking moment maintaining their looks for a living as Eva clearly does, deserve to be cheated on any more than Eva because, y'know, she's a hottie and all.

I know, I know... the popular premise on why people cheat is that their spouse has let themselves go, is looking kinda sloppy, and therefore eyes wander. But that's not always the case.

I have researched a (yet to be published) story on cheating, and why men and women cheat, even going on some undercover surveillance jobs. The man behind the private investigator firm was adamant that in most cases he investigates, it is opportunity that creates the landscape for someone to cheat.

So, he adds, lots of time away from each other, meeting interesting people at work away from the daily drudgery, and a willingness from both of the people doing the cheating to take things further creates an environment ripe for straying.

In Eva Longoria's case, it has been documented that her sportstar ex-husband Tony Parker indulged his penchant for s-exting... with his team-mate's wife. That was a deal-breaker for Eva.

Yet, in the TV interview with Piers, she says simply: "We wanted different things. He's not a bad person. He just wanted... something else. And I don't hate him for it."

What are your thoughts on cheating? What constitutes cheating? And would you / have you forgiven someone for cheating? Or have you taken them back? And do you think Piers's theory on 'how could someone cheat on Eva' holds any weight?

Jackie O: going back to work - how soon is too soon?

Days after the Jackie O / Pru Goward controversy (can you believe the hoo-haa generated over that one photo?), I am yet to address the other argument which was so instrumental in setting this whole kerfuffle off. Women returning back to work - how soon is too soon?

A bit of background first.

The first stone was cast by Daily Telegraph Sydney Confidential gossip columnist Annette Sharp, who, in an open letter to Jackie O, questioned why the radio co-host would return to work only "a few weeks" after the birth of her baby Kitty.

"I'm not judging, I just don't know why a woman who can afford to take a year off with her new baby wouldn't," Annette wrote. A tearful Jackie O broke down in tears after Annette's comments made her "feel like a second-rate mum".

Jackie O used her live breakfast show to hit back at Annette, telling listeners she felt positive about her choice until she read the newspaper article that morning.

"It was two months I was off [not a few weeks]. Then when I did return to work I was working from home and had Kitty by my side for the whole show," she said. "I'm trying the best I can. It is hurtful. I just wanted you to know that I put her before everything else."

Yes, you are trying the best you can, Jackie. And of course you put her before everything else. But the judgement is constantly stacked against working mums. Or non-working mums, for that matter.

So I was very interested to hear about the just-released, sixth Annual Child Care & Workforce Participation Survey examining the health of Australia's child care system conducted by http://www.careforkids.com.au/.

The survey encourages parents to provide insight into their specific child care arrangements and have their say about our child care system and whether it is working for them. According to the survey, up to 60% of working mothers feel stigmatised, while up to 40% of stay at home mums have been judged by their decision not to work.

The report was discussed by journalist and mum Renae Leith-Manos on the Kerri-Anne TV show yesterday (Renae also happens to be my old editor, and is a fellow mum of twins).

"Children are a highly emotive issue and everyone wants to put in their 10 cents worth and try and tell mothers what to do," she told Kerri-Anne. "It's really tough out there... I've done it. To work or not to work? And the real issue is that if you lose your job for too long you won't get it back in this day and age - depending on what your job is of course. But for most of us there's a real pressure and a real choice and it's the toughest choice a woman has to make.

During the segment, Kerri-Anne asks, "Who out there is at the pointed end of the criticism?" Responds Renae: "I hate to say it - I think it's other women. The women who stay at home criticise the women who go back to work. The women who go back to work criticise the women who stay at home... it's been going on for a long time and us women need to talk to each other and support each other more."

Ain't that the truth, Renae!

She adds, "Even if you go back to work, there's this expectation of, 'Oh, she's going to come in late'. Or, 'she's going to leave early. She's going to be exhausted. She's not going to be up to scratch.' And sometimes those things are true. Because, you know having babies at home is tough work. You're up all night, your brain isn't functioning to full capacity. It's tough."

When Kerri-Anne adds that the survey shows that 60% of working mothers said that they were made to feel that they were not taking their parenting responsibilities seriously, Renae says the exact sentiment I am thinking.

"Isn't that devastating! As a woman, there is nothing more important than your children. And the idea that someone would judge you in that way is heartbreaking."

So, what constitutes the 'right' reason to go back to work? Money? Boredom? An excuse to get away from the madness? Says Renae. "And again, it's judgement. And who's to say what someone's financial situation is, what their emotional situation is. I mean, a lot of women feel better going back to work and feel they can give more to their children. And it's not necessarily always about money. It's also about your future career. You may not need the money now, but everyone needs to have a job. And if you leave it too long you may not get it back."

Long before I had kids, my best friend (already a mum) revealed what she called a dirty little secret working mummies kept - that they actually only wanted to work to get away from the responsibilities of parenting (that, and making money for the family, of course).

I must say that for me, my primary motivations were that I wanted to contribute to the family funds... and I hated the way I felt when I wasn't working. There was a slight power shift in the family dynamic - and I didn't like it. I had freelance sub-editing jobs before I had the twins and when they were three weeks old I gladly accepted some work from home. It was minimal, and I have been working from home for the past three years (going into an office only late last year), but I loved that the sole purpose of my day was not only to raise my much-loved children.

The irony was I had taken on the oft-called 'most valuable job in the world'... and yet when I didn't work, I felt the most worthless I'd ever felt. Weird, no?

Agreed Renae on Kerri-Anne: "It can be really mind numbing being at home all the time and again people judge you. Friends come over and they're working... work can be fun! And when you're not working you can't relate to a lot of the things they're talking about, so yes you do feel stigmatised as well."

The answer? Says Renae, "Look I don't think there is [one]. I think the answer is to be more understanding. More part-time work helps a lot. And more childcare facilities on-site. I would love to see some big corporations bring childcare into the workplace. That would really facilitate a lot more women going back to work and acheiving that balance that they're really after."

You said that right, sister.

Perhaps the shape of things to come? In the meantime, please - let's respect each others' choices, eh?

To see the entire interview, go here: http://www.kerri-anne.com.au/video_highlights.php (Photo credits: Renae: http://www.motherandbaby.ninemsn.com.au/; Kerri-Anne: http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/)

Mariah Carey: Life & Style magazine

Mum-to-be Mariah Carey is on the cover of the latest Life & Style magazine, baring her twin-belly.

"I was feeling very vulnerable about taking pictures at all right now, but then I didn’t want to miss this opportunity to document this once-in-a-lifetime experience," Carey told Life & Style.

"My ultimate goal was to share this incredibly personal moment with my true fans. " "The babies were kicking almost the entire time; it was unbelievable," she adds. "Especially the girl - clearly she's a diva in training! We didn't start shooting until 1.30am because I was in the hospital from the night before until the day of the shoot with contractions five minutes apart!" (But no news yet...)

Husband Nick Cannon says he is more attracted to his wife than ever. "I thought I couldn't love Mariah more," he tells the magazine. "But I have a whole new appreciation and admiration for her."

Mariah adds, "Now I have so much respect for mothers everywhere, especially those who've had difficult pregnancies or given birth to multiples. We need to have Mother's Day once a week!"

Moove Weekender on Wheels, with Aussie band, Georgia Fair

To celebrate the launch of the Moove® Weekender on Wheels, home grown Aussie band, Georgia Fair will come ‘out to play’ and perform a free gig at the Overseas Passenger Terminal in Sydney’s CBD tomorrow, Tuesday, 5th April at 4.30pm.

Georgia Fair band buddies Jordan and Ben are renowned for melodic tunes and subtle harmonies, delivered in their signature laid back style.

With tours alongside acclaimed artists including Kate Miller-Heidke, and Megan Washington, Georgia Fair is garnering its own live following.

With their Times Fly EP just released, Sydney fans are invited to a special one-off performance by the duo. The Moove Weekender on Wheels is a custom built bus that has been designed as the ultimate holiday pad on wheels. Decked out to include sleeping quarters, a built in BBQ, bathroom, mini fridge (stocked with an endless supply of Moove flavoured milk), sun deck, games table, plasma screen TV, Wii and personal driver, it’s a damn impressive bus ride.

And throughout April and May, you'll have the chance to win a four day tailor made road trip for you and three mates – the ultimate road trip (you also have the chance to win $500 daily).

For starters, come down to the Overseas Passenger Terminal on Tuesday (you can also get a free Sony music download by logging on and ‘Liking’ the Moove Facebook site - the free music download goes live on April 12, 2011).

The Moove Weekender on Wheels will be visiting the following locations:

Friday, 8th April - Customs House, Sydney CBD

Saturday, 9th April – Cronulla Beach, Cronulla

Saturday, 30th April – Church Street Mall, Parramatta

Sunday, 1st May – Bondi Junction

Monday, 2nd May – Newcastle University

Wednesday, 4th May – Belmore Park, Sydney Central

Thursday, 5th May - University of Wollongong

Saturday, 7th May – Perryman Square, Cronulla About the Moove Weekender on Wheels.

See http://www.moove.com.au/ or www.facebook.com/moovemilk for more information.

To enter the competition, just buy any specially marked Moove carton and register your details online or SMS for a chance to win the ultimate road trip in the Moove Weekender on Wheels.

Pru Goward, Lisa Wilkinson, and Jackie O: the debate about that photo

So, I am sitting here gobsmacked, eyes glazed with tears.

I just heard Lisa Wilkinson from the Today show speak about these photos and this article, below (in particular the explosive quotes from politician Pru Goward):

http://www.news.com.au/entertainment/celebrity/row-erupts-over-jackie-os-feeding-furore/story-e6frfmqi-1226032841515

Here is what Lisa said: "It's a comment that has deeply offended many mothers and is all the more surprising coming from a politician who, shortly afte taking office in 2007, was caught speeing in a schoolzone. We invited Ms Goward to appear on the show this morning to explain her comments. She declined because she, quote, had parliament this morning. An excuse we do find odd as Ms Goward is attending the Barnados' Mother of the Year Awards this morning. I know because I am hosting the event.

"Ms Goward, our offer for you to explain your comments stands. As I said last week, the truth is we know nothing of the circumstances behind the Jackie O photo, but we do know those first weeks of being a new mum are fraught. How we work it out is a deeply personal thing, and what none of us need is unpleasant sneering from the sidelines. And as incoming Family Services Minister, in a state with an unprecented number of children being abused and neglected, surely Ms Goward, you have more worthwhile issues to attend to."

Lisa - what can I say? You are the voice of all women. You said what many are thinking.

Yesterday, Pru was quoted saying: "We all were horrified when Michael Jackson dangled his baby out the window and this woman is crossing the road not just holding a baby but feeding a baby and I think it was unnecessarily cavalier," Ms Goward told The Sunday Telegraph.

"There would be no mother, no parent probably, or even a hardened feminist, in the country who would think that was a good way of feeding a baby, particularly a little tiny baby," she said.

Wow, Ms Goward. Bring on the onslaught. How dare you judge like this?

The first months, years even, of a new mother and baby's life together are fraught with trial and error, tears and disappointments, frustrations and sleep deprivation. Add a dollop of unsolicited advice and intense judgment and snide comments and you have a recipe for even more of the daily self-loathing and inadequacies we feel as new mothers.

How many times did I leave the house with my baby twins, desperate to be around people in some kind of social setting, head to my local Woolies supermarket, and cower in embarrassment as one or both of my twins screamed down the shop.

My elderly mother - bless her - really was no help, and so I felt so alone, so helpless, like such a failure.

Yes, I got those looks. The ones that say: "Can't you control your children? What is wrong with you? Sheesh, what's wrong with them?"

The turning point came for me one day when I'd had yet another day out from hell. I had to take my mother to the doctor's surgery. My twins screamed. I had to take my mum to the bank. My twins screamed there too.

I was in tears - actually a total mess - right there in the bank, and from behind an angel appeared: my hairdresser/family friend Alba. She scooped up my inconsolable son so quickly and without prompting; she comforted him instantly, and in that moment, I was just so grateful. She knew. She understood. Me.

The next time I saw my doctor's secretary, again in tears, she simply said: "Mothers understand. Nobody is judging you. Ignore everyone else. And this will all pass." I hugged her right there in the street, and cried some more. I cry as I write this as it takes me right back to the moment.

And I had tears as I heard Lisa Wilkinson's impassioned statement, straight down the barrel of the camera this morning.

The hazy first year of my life twins' life when I had two babies to raise, an elderly mum diagnosed with a life-threatening illness who moved in with us - and for whom I became full-time carer - were a mixture of intense emotions. There were plenty of beautiful times I will treasure forever. And there were some I'd rather forget. And with days and days filled with no help, hired, family or otherwise (I did/do have a heaven-sent/helpful husband and I did have the occasional visit from my Karitane volunteer), I felt incredibly isolated and deeply sad.

Add to that a paparazzi shot and judgement from an entire country, and, well... how do you think anyone would feel, famous or otherwise...?

What are your thoughts? Please share anything you'd like to say.

(Photos: news.com.au / Mode Media)

Prince William won't wear his wedding ring after he weds Kate... discuss.

Prince William will not be wearing his wedding ring after he marries Kate Middleton later this month Palace officials have revealed... and I will admit this kind of bothers me.

I love a man who wears his wedding ring. I love that my husband wears his wedding ring. I love that he loves wearing his wedding ring.

It's totally his choice, always has been, but I did tell him right from the start that I liked it. (And I would do the same). And he's never taken it off. Never intended to, he tells me. I really adore that.

It's absolutely everyone's personal choice, but I kinda think, if you're married, and you don't like wearing it... well, why?

I am not suggesting if you don't wear your ring you're up to something sneaky. Or cruising to pick up on a Saturday night. For some men, they've said it gets in the way of their daily work. For others still - men and women - they say it's because their weight has flactuated since they married and it doesn't fit anymore (and they couldn't be bothered getting it re-sized).

We have a running joke in my house with an old friend of mine. She's been married for years but stopped wearing her ring ages ago - my mum always asks her where it is, and my buddy teases her saying she doesn't wear it because she intends to hook up with another man behind her husband's back. My mum has a chuckle, but I know it bothers her a bit. This coming from a woman who lost my beloved dad over 25 years ago - and still faithfully wears her wedding band every single day. Has never taken it off, in fact.

Not surprising then that I love wearing my wedding and engagement rings every day. I only slip them off when I get home for practicality's sake. For me, yes, it is a symbol that I am somebody's wife. Call me old-fashioned, but I like that - a lot.

Remember that scene between Carrie and Aidan in the Sex & The City series?

When long-suffering Aidan, affianced to Carrie (post Big-cheat) questions why she's doesn't want to marry him right now, the truth comes out...

Says Aidan: "Carrie, I want the whole wide world to know that you're mine." To which she replies: "Who else's would I be?" Until she has that sinking realisation that this is more than about just the ring or that piece of paper: "You still don't trust me!"

To which Aidan replies: "You don't even wear that ring on your fucking finger."

As I said I am big fan - huge - of wearing the only piece of jewellery that you as a couple exchanged, with a promise, at the same time in a church, or on a beach, or at the registry office, or in Vegas, or as a same-sex couple at a commitment ceremony.

What do you think about not wearing a wedding ring?

Cosmopolitan Middle East: April 2011 - Khloe Kardashian. Launch issue!

HERE IT IS!

The one you've all been waiting for (I know I have, but I am definitely biased)...

It's the launch edition of Cosmopolitan Middle East.

It has been 'leaked' one day prior to its official launch date of April 1 - by the covergirl herself! That'd be Khloe Kardashian...

She said on Twitter: "MY FIRST COSMO COVER!!! http://bit.ly/ej990V OMG I'm still in shock!!!!" On her official site, she said: "I am BEYOND excited to share with all of you my very first COSMOPOLITAN cover! OMG!!!!!!

"This is honestly a dream come true! I died when I saw it — I was on the plane with Kim and Kourt en route to San Fran yesterday and when we landed I had a million emails about it and it was my first time seeing the cover. I was just in shock! Never in my wildest dreams did I think that I would be on the cover of Cosmo because I never knew it was an option. When they sent me the email to be on the cover I said to my publicist, “I think you meant to send this Kim.” LOL.

"She was like “No crazy girl! This is for you!” Not only is it such a blessing to be on the cover of Cosmo, but I am the FIRST cover girl for COSMOPOLITAN Middle East! What an honor!!!!! I’m honestly bursting with pride. I am truly blessed! Click through the gallery to see the entire spread. My favorite look is the sequin one :)"

You can read her comments - and see the pics - on her site here: http://khloekardashian.celebuzz.com/my-first-cosmo-cover-03-2011

Some of the pics from the shoot, which took place at the glorious Hotel Shangri-La, Santa Monica, California are reproduced here.

The interview, conducted by Kerrie, produced some insights into Khloe's life (I really kinda like the girl even more now):

On the highest point of her life so far: "Marrying Lamar for sure. It was easily the best day of my life."

On her upcoming reality show with husband Lamar: "I was the one who didn't want to do it. I said, 'Absolutely not'. But he was the one who was really into it... And he just said, 'People want to see it.' And so we are. We've been filming since January."

On her 'next big thing': "I don't know. I pray that I'll be a mum soon, so I hope that will be the next thing."

Editor of Cosmopolitan Middle East Kerrie Simon (one of my best buds, so I am ridiculously proud of her) reveals the diet of the hardworking Cosmo crew to get this launch issue out:

"Gosh – there was a food delivery every night – Indian, sushi, burgers, Naked Pizza (apparently it’s healthy), Pakistani. And then an endless desk supply of Digestives biscuits, chocolate, Turkish delight, lollies, agh!"

So, standard mad-magazine-deadline fare, then!

Kerrie is Australian-born and has been working as a magazine editor in Dubai for several years, recently landing this incredible opportunity to be at the helm of the historic launch of Cosmopolitan Middle East.

And now, the news of the launch issue - following Khloe's cheeky Twitter post - has gone viral. The Huffington Post, RadarOnline, X17online, Examiner (and Josie's Juice!) have all picked it up with as much enthusiasm as Kardashian herself.

Huge congrats to the Cosmo team! Well done, team. More, more, more!

Breastfeeding protest: do you agree?

Did you hear about the woman who was allegedly forced out of a Lifeline charity store in Asquith, NSW, for breastfeeding?

According to an article on news.com.au, Abby Hogarth was breastfeeding her son in the charity store and was allegedly told breastfeeding was against OH&S and “you can’t do that here”.

So, Abby is going back to the Lifeline store this week - bringing with her hundreds of breastfeeding mums - and plans to sit amongst the second hand clothes to feed her baby boy. She even posted a "Facebook Nurse In" event on the social networking site. Apparently, the Lifeline worker said breastfeeding was against OH&S because “She might touch the secondhand clothing and then her baby might get sick”.

You can read the rest of the article here: http://blogs.news.com.au/naughtycorner/index.php/news/comments/breastfeeding_woman_forced_out_of_lifeline_store

So, what do you think? On Facebook last night, one of my school buddies posted this exact link and added the following comment: "[I think] things are just getting too far. I breastfed both my boys for months and never ever did I do it in public, not even in front of any male relos at home. How hard is it to plan your day around feeding times, going to a shopping centre mother and kids room or going to your car if you have to? I may be prudish, but so be it."

So, I thought about that comment - and it kinda made a lot of sense. Please don't send hate mail about my not backing breastfeeding - I do! I breastfed both my twins - sometimes at the same time (how's that for a visual?) - and loved it. Yes, there was one time I had to do it quickly because one was screaming - I swathed myself in so much muslin, nobody got a peep of the girls (my boobs, I mean). Mind you, it was when the twins were three weeks old and I was at my twin prenatal class reunion, so I knew I was in an understanding environment. If I was at home, with visitors, I simply went to another room. Or again, covered my breasts in a light material.

When you are out, and you have a suddenly hysterical baby, and you know the only thing that will calm them down is your breast, of course you will give them what they want, wherever you are - I know I would. I think it's just a matter of assessing the situation quickly, doing it as discreetly as possible (lactating mums know boobs are not sexual; men still view them as 'fun bags'... crude, but true!), and feeling comfortable that what you are doing is right for you and your child in that moment.

What did you do when faced with a similar situation? Have you ever had a complaint - even a disapproving look - from someone around you?

Further, the news.com.au piece added an updated comment from Lifeline themselves after the incident: "Here’s a comment from Lifeline that I thought deserved to be up here in the blog. Hi Everyone, Chris from Lifeline here, We wanted to update you on our response to this complaint; we believe you all have a right to know. To begin with, as an organisation we have no policy that discourages breastfeeding in any of our stores. We want to be clear about that from the outset. Here is a message from Wendy Carver, the local Centre Manager responsible for the store: “Lifeline Harbour to Hawkesbury has received a formal complaint from the customer who attended our Asquith Shop last week. Lifeline always takes these complaints seriously, especially when they involve a member of the public feeling that they have been treated inappropriately. Lifeline believes all people deserve to be treated with respect and dignity and we are immediately disappointed and upset if anyone accessing our services or shops is not treated well. Lifeline Harbour to Hawkesbury has a Complaints Policy and Procedure, and the complaint that was received last week is currently being investigated.

You can read the rest of the statement here: http://blogs.news.com.au/naughtycorner/index.php/news/comments/breastfeeding_woman_forced_out_of_lifeline_store

Thoughts?

Sami's Baby - Sami Lukis's quest to become a mother

Wanting a baby, but not being able to conceive - or not having found a partner with whom to have children - must be one of life's most heartbreaking predicaments.

And it's one happening to Australian TV and radio identity Sami Lukis.

On Monday March 21, Sami will reveal onscreen what she has been through in her quest to have a baby - on her own.

In the premiere entitled Australians Exposed - Sami's Baby, Sami lays herself bare. She has a successful media career, a great group of friends... but she feels something is missing.

Just before Sami turned 40, her grandmother passed away. When Sami and her multi-generational family came together during this emotional time, it suddenly hit her: “Where’s my family?” she asks herself.

Sami is about to discover some confronting statistics. The proportion of women remaining childless has increased over time in each age group. For women aged 25 and 29 years in 1981, 25% were childless, while in 2001 59% of women in the same age group were childless.

In the program, cameras follow Sami as she begins her journey, with the doco following Sami as she 'searches' for a family. She meets fertility experts, herbalists, asks her flatmate for his sperm, checks out international donor sperm websites, grills her married friends, and keeps up the search for a partner - the latter of which happens.

So now what?

Watch the world premiere of Australians Exposed - Sami's Baby, Monday 21 March at 9.30pm, on LifeStyle You, available on Foxtel and Austar.

Mr Morph 2011 - Morphsuit comp

Morphsuit-wearing men will out in force in Sydney today.

They are competing to be crowned Mr Morph 2011. The contest will be judged solely on talent and answers, not looks (although body shape could come in to play!).

Contestants will compete in two categories, talent and questions and answer.

WHERE: Coogee Bay Hotel, Corner Coogee Bay Rd & Arden St, Coogee

WHEN: Heat 3 occurs at 3pm, Saturday 12th of March (Final Saturday 19th of March)

Don't understand the morphsuit phenomenon? Here's a rundown: it covers the whole body (even the head), you can breath through them, see through them and even drink through them. Australians are the biggest buyers of Morphsuits per capita in the world.

Heats 1 and 2 have produced some interesting contenders for the crown of Mr Morph Australia. Heat 3 is the final chance for contestants to book their spot in the final.

There are about 100,000 morphs running around the globe, and more than 480,000 Morphsuits fans on Facebook - here are some of their global shenanigans...

To buy one, go to: http://www.morphsuits.com.au/ and for more information go to http://www.morphsuits.com.au/ or www.facebook.com/morphsuits

NineToFive Magazine Website Edition: Breaking News!

In news just in, NineToFive magazine will announce on Monday that the website edition of the magazine will live on.

While the final print version of the magazine will hit the streets this Monday March 14, 2011, the strong online presence of the brand - at http://www.ninetofive.com.au/ - will ensure the magazine will not be gone, nor forgotten.

Matt Young (pictured above), features journalist at NineToFive magazine for the past year - and part of the NineToFive team for the past four years - will be the new website editor of the re-vamped online version of the hugely popular magazine.

"The NineToFive website will be reformatted to include even more exciting content, and new elements will be added, plus an even bigger focus on the Sydney scene," says Matt.

"The NineToFive Facebook page will remain open [to date it has almost 3,000 fans] and there will be a renewed focus on social networking sites," adds Matt.

Passionate reader feedback has led to the decision to keep the strong brand alive - after all, it has been 22 years in the making. With digital media sites now thriving, and special editions of magazines being published as a result of a successful online platform, not the other way around (http://www.primped.com.au/ is a perfect example), this seems a logical way to go for the NineToFive brand.

Interestingly, the decision to keep the brand alive came to a head yesterday, and last minute changes to pages of the print version were made to reflect this eleventh hour development.

Editor of the print edition of NineToFive Abi Weeks is said to be overseeing the online version, with Matt Young website editor.

Insiders reveal that ad dollars weren't the issue with the folding of the hard copy magazine. In fact, advertisers were said to be very much saddened by the news, with some already planning big campaigns in the mag.

The last issue of the magazine went to press on Friday, and will hit Sydney streets as per usual on Monday. It will feature a story on fashion bloggers, including Matthew Jordan - the man behind popular blogs http://www.styletyrant.com/ and http://www.imelda.com.au/.

The collector's edition will also feature a retrospective of past NineToFive magazine covers, as well as a slew of celebs including fashion designers Alex Perry and Rachel Gilbert giving their farewell messages to the print version of the magazine.

So, while Monday means saying goodbye to the print edition, it heralds a new direction and an even stronger online presence for the much-loved magazine.

Which turns this into a rare, good news publishing story!

Jennifer Aniston kicks Brad Wollack in the groin for Smart Water. SCOOP: Brad tells all

Have you seen the new Smart Water ad yet, featuring Jennifer Aniston? She's made a video that has turned into a virus... I mean, gone viral: http://josiesjuice.blogspot.com/2011/03/jennifer-aniston-sex-tape-smart-water.html

She drew on all the elements of viral success: dancing babies, animals, lip-synching... and a kick to the nuts.

The person who got that coveted role was Brad Wollack, one of the comedians on the Chelsea Lately 'round table'.

And after the taping of one of the Sydney show tapings (see:
http://josiesjuice.blogspot.com/2011/03/rihanna-on-chelsea-lately-sydney-show.html) I cornered him and asked him, well... how his balls were feeling. As you do.

Brad explained to me how the whole thing came together.

"What they do is, they place this thing in your pants. Seriously, it's like this whole contraption they use: it’s a long strap, and there's holes on each end, and you put your feet through them and you string up this thing which pulls your pants away from your genitals. And then there's more padding underneath that, so you have a lot of resitance when it's kicked, so you don't feel it so much."

So, he didn't feel a thing?

"Hmmm, after a few takes, it’s does hurt a bit. She felt badly though. And I was like, 'You can do wharever the hell you want, Jen!'"

Even without protection he would have gone there, I ask Brad?

"I woulda done it in two seconds…!" he says with a laugh.

Before he took on the shoot and when the concept was explained, Brad says, "I was like, how does this happen? There were stunt guys who came along and showed me how to do it… it was such fun."

He adds: "Chelsea [Handler] was my agent on my that! She booked me! I got an email from her that said, 'You’re in a commercial with Jen Aniston, this Friday. You’re welcome.'

And that was that. I was suddenly starring in a commercial with Jennifer Aniston!"

100th Anniversary of International Women’s Day: "Australian Women: Shaping A Nation."

Foxtel's Bio channel celebrates the 100th anniversary of International Women’s Day with
"Australian Women - Shaping A Nation", an exclusive Foxtel special premiering tonight Tuesday, March 8 at 9.30pm.

Foxtel's Bio channel will celebrate some of Australia’s most accomplished women, past and present, with this insightful and heart-warming special.

Hosted by one of Australia’s best known media identities, Ita Buttrose, the locally produced documentary will highlight some of the remarkable women that have played their unique role in the shaping of Australia. From the early pioneers to the social justice fighters to scientists, business leaders, philanthropists, artists and performers, writers, political and community leaders, "Australian Women" is an inspiring celebration of the female spirit.

The one hour television special, launched in partnership with The Westpac Group’s The Power of 100 book, features interviews with GenerationOne’s Tania Major, pediatrician and cot death researcher, Susan Beal, nurse and cancer support leader, Rose Yeung, filmmaker, shark expert and marine conservationist, Valerie Taylor as well spotlighting the amazing work of people such as Jessie Vasey, Founding president of the War Widows’ Guild of Australia and author Miles Franklin.

AUSTRALIAN WOMEN – SHAPING A NATION premieres on FOXTEL’s Bio. channel on March 8 at 9:30pm AEDT.

SOME AMAZING WORDS FROM AMAZING AUSTRALIAN WOMEN:

“All the men in parliament cannot represent one woman as adequately as one woman can represent all women.”
Melbourne suffragist and feminist – Veda Goldstein (1869-1949)

“In family life, loving understanding, intelligent discipline, mutual respect and loyalty give me so much strength.”
Philanthropist and arts patron – Dame Elizabeth Murdoch (Born 1909)

“As a woman I think you’ve got to work harder and think harder and know it’s possible.”
Mining Executive and Philanthropist - Gina Rinehart (Born 1954)

“To dream takes courage.”
World surfing champion and creator of the Aim for the Stars Foundation – Layne Beachley (Born 1972)

“I believe that we are witnessing the third wave of the Women’s Movement: the first got us the vote, the second liberated us from our virtual confinement to unpaid house and caring work, and the third, in the wake of women gaining education, influence and wealth, will see the financial empowerment of women and the resulting benefit to families, the community and the country.”
Lawyer, businesswoman and co-founder and convenor of the Australian Women Donors Network – Eve Mahlab (Born 1937)

“I can never see why it is not considered the hallmark of success to have a brain like a woman.”
Victoria’s first female QC – Joan Rosanove (Born 1896/Died 1974)

“Surely we don’t mean liberty and democracy y for men only?”
Female activist – Jessie Street (Born 1889/Died 1970)

“Australia has offered me opportunities that would have been beyond my parents’ understanding when they stepped off that boat in Adelaide in 1966.”
Australian Prime Minister – Julia Gillard (Born 1961)

“In five years, I want gender not to be on the agenda.”
Lawyer and Federal Sex Discrimination Commissioner – Elizabeth Broderick (Born 1961)

“It’s not in the nation’s interest to have so much talent in at least 50 per cent of the population under-utilised.”
Banker and company director – Helen Lynch (Born 1943)

“It’s all about your ability, not your disability”
Olympic and Paralympic Champion – Louise Savage (Born 1973)

“Our prosperity depends on women. It is time to discard the latent bias that constrains opportunity.”
Corporate Leader – Anne Sherry (Born 1964)

ghd Announces Katy Perry as 'New Face' in Global Partnership

This just in: ghd has just announced singer Katy Perry as their 'new face'.

The superstar's multi-year collaboration with the professional hair styling brand leader ghd will kick off over the next few months with an exciting new multimedia global brand campaign recently shot by world renowned photographer David LaChapelle.

"Katy is the epitome of modern fashion and styling. Her unique, ever changing looks are the envy of style devotees around the world. Katy completely embodies ghd’s spirit of female transformation and empowerment, as she is recognised as a cutting edge style icon unafraid to push fashion and beauty boundaries. Sassy, stylish and sexy, Katy is the perfect partner for ghd,” says Paul Stoneham, Chief Executive Officer, ghd.

“I'm so excited to be working with ghd, especially using their tools on my California Dreams Tour to get me stage ready. ghd products have a reputation of being the best products in the biz, and I like being associated with that. I'm very excited to reveal the styles I did with legendary David LaChapelle in the upcoming ghd campaign. Keep your eyes peeled for it!” shares Perry in regards to the announcement.

Rounding out the partnership, ghd has signed to become an 'International Tour Sponsor' for Perry’s forthcoming “California Dreams 2011” tour, and plans to involve its talented professional hair stylist ambassadors in concert-related events throughout the world.

Katy Perry kicks off the Australian leg of her tour on April 28 in Melbourne, with her final show hitting Brisbane on May 15.

For more, see: www.ghdhair.com/au

Jennifer Aniston. Justin Bieber. New haircuts. That is all.

Jennifer Aniston has a new hairstyle:

For more, see:

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-1359686/Jennifer-Aniston-tries-upstage-Brooklyn-Decker-new-hair-cut.html

And:

http://content.usatoday.com/communities/entertainment/post/2011/02/gasp-jennifer-aniston-sports-new-short-hairstyle-/1

And so does Justin Bieber! See:

http://www.zimbio.com/Justin+Bieber+Haircut/articles/wuhfyQE87C6/Justin+Bieber+Haircut+Pictures

Okay, go back to what you were doing...

Beyonce's 'Blackface': L'Officiel Paris 90th anniversary edition

Beyonce is the cover star of the 9oth anniversary edition of L'Officiel Paris magazine.

You can watch the behind the scenes video here:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BwvZ8OTAsMg

There has been some controversy over her apparent "blackface" makeup in some of the shots inside the mag, though she has defended this, saying it's in line with the “African Queen” theme, and she was paying tribute to Nigerian musician and human rights activist Fela Kuti who will heavily influence her upcoming fourth studio album.

The magazine is standing by the photos, stating:

The fashion magazine is about to celebrate its 90th birthday. To celebrate this anniversary, the festivities start with the March issue, with Beyoncé on the cover. She agreed to pose for an incredible fashion shoot, with the theme of African Queen, paying a tribute to the legendary Fela Kuti. Far from the glamorous Sasha Fierce, the beauty posed for the magazine with amazing fashion designers clothes, but also in a dress created by her mother. [It is] A return to her African roots, as you can see on the picture, on which her face was voluntarily darkened. All the pictures will be available in the collector edition, on sell at the end of this month."

The Atlanta Post has attacked the photoshoot, saying that 'blackface' is not 'art'. Here's an excerpt:

"...With the frequent use of this image on both the catwalk and in fashion editorial, it makes one wonder if this is a form of art or racism?

The tradition of blackface began as theatrical makeup used in minstrel shows that would “blacken” an actor’s face using shoe paint, burnt cork and greasepaint. The practice became synonymous with racism because it used by white actors to entertain white audiences with stereotypical caricatures of blacks. This once beloved art form has played a significant role in cementing globally racist imagery and perceptions about black people.

The current tone of blackface may seem to be less malevolent today; still, the fashion industry has shown their insensitivity because this imagery is still considered in the black community to be just as insidious and hurtful as it was in the past. Blackface is not fashion forward or edgy and in my opinion, it is just flat out offensive. Black folks must have a zero tolerance policy for any manifestation of blackface, period."

What do you think?

E! launches Facebook Red Carpet App

A bit celeb-obsessed? You'll love this new Facebook app E! has just launched.

The app takes a photo from your Facebook account and puts your name and image in an Oscars red carpet video (accompanied by Katy Perry’s ‘Firework’ track).

It even takes one of your friend’s photos and involves the two of you in a ‘mock’ scandal!
See the “My Red Carpet” Facebook App:

http://eonli.ne/MYREDCARPET

Red Carpet fever will culminate with the 2011 Academy Awards, and the E! channel will present the "Countdown to the Red Carpet: The 2011 Academy Awards" on Monday, Feb 28th at 6am AEDST.

Then, E! will broadcast "Live from the Red Carpet: The 2011 Academy Awards" – Monday, Feb 28th at 10am AEDST (the actual Oscars ceremony will be broadcast live on Starpics 1 from 12.30pm, repeated on Starpics 2 from 2.30pm, then later in the evening on free-to-air, on Channel Nine - Anne Hathaway and James Franco will be co-hosting the event).

The "E! After Party: The 2011 Academy Awards" will screen on Monday, Feb 28th at 4pm AEDST, with "Fashion Police: The 2011 Academy Awards – Wednesday, Mar 2nd at 11:10am AEDST.

More on the "My Red Carpet" Facebook app:

By playing the app from within your Facebook page, you will be able to see yourself getting ready for your 'big moment0'. Users will see stylists fussing around them, choosing their shoes and offering them the right accessories. The app then reveals the user getting out of the limousine on to the red carpet that features top celebrities, all from their POV. Within the video there are five points where either the user, or one of their friend’s, images are used, along with a variety of accompanying headlines.

Once you have downloaded the app, you can share it with friends, who in turn will have their own chance to indulge in the red carpet experience.

Nick Price, Head of Content, MPG said of the app “It’s been great to work on something as creatively challenging as this – by creating an engaging campaign using content and social media to deliver something genuinely different, we are able to better and more convincingly speak to the young female audience with whom E! Entertainment has a strong relationship.”

Sounds like fun! Not as much fun as critiquing the red carpet looks I am dying to see next week, but right up there...

(E! is available on FOXTEL, OPTUS and AUSTAR on Channel 121)