*Sex Scandals in Schools- Who's Fault is it Anyway?*

We all agree that it is inappropriate for a teacher to initiate a sexual relationship with a student. In Florida, it is against state law for anyone over the age of 21 to be involved with anyone 16 or younger. It is considered statutory rape and it can cost an individual their job. If you're from a different culture or have been to other countries, it's not uncommon for these scenarios to occur. If a teenager is mature enough to start a relationship with an older individual, it's socially accepted. Many Americans are outraged by these types of relationships and believe they are disgusting. They don't consider the past or the relationships that existed between their ancestors. Don't get me wrong, I do believe that it is sexually inappropriate for grown men or women to initiate relationships with anyone under the age of 14. Once they're over the age, if it is consensual, then it's not only the older individuals fault, but the "victims" as well. If parents condoned  the relationship prior to the accusations, then they are responsible for the ill outcome. You can't "cry wolf" because matters didn't end in your favor. An individuals future is at stake, so make amends with it and move on. Don't  cost them their lives. If the relationship begins on school property, it isn't respected. Teachers should always be responsible and stray away from developing sexual relations with their students. When they violate school rules, they must face the consequences. The law is the law and it can't be altered. Respect your jobs. Don't create havoc. It can ruin everyone's future.

*^ Roma- A City Full of Cultures ^*

When I was 18, I had an amazing opportunity. Throughout my life, I have been able to do diverse activities because of my parents. I always knew that I wanted to live in Italy. I wasn't sure where, but I knew my heart was there. Shortly after graduating high school, I was on a desperate search for a college. I didn't want to go anywhere, but Europe and I was stubborn. I didn't do the correct process and failed to apply to any college. As you can imagine, my parents were infuriated. I wasn't even sure if I wanted to attend any college at all, but I knew I had to. Since I had begged my parents all my life about Italy, they made arrangements to meet with staff at one of the most well-known school, The American University of Rome. I will never forget the day I arrived at the iron gates to tour the school. It was small, but magnificently beautiful. It was surrounded by different trees and it felt homely. I enjoy learning in small groups. I am easily distracted by larger ones, so this school was perfect. In January of 2008, I was able to attend The American University of  Rome. I had the pleasure of experiencing many diverse cultures. I also met unforgettable individuals that will always remain close to my heart. One of my best friends, pictured above third to last, is from Iraq. She introduced me to her culture and made me feel welcome in Europe when I felt alone. It wasn't easy leaving my family, so four years evolved into four short months. It's one of my many regrets because I didn't receive my dual degree, but I had the opportunity. That is one of the greatest things I have ever done. If you have the chance, explore. It's one of the most amazing things I've ever done.

*How Safe Are Your Children?*

It happens every day. Parents send their children to school, to a friends house, take them to a park, etc. Unfortunately, kidnappings occur every moment. Parents do anything and everything they can to protect their children, but sometimes it's not enough. There's nothing anyone can do to keep their kids completely safe. There are prowlers in every neighborhood waiting to find a helpless child. The only thing that can ensure a child's safety is a close eye. It's hard to keep an open eye, especially when other children are involved. Also, children should always travel in large groups. They should never be left alone. Your neighborhood can never be too "safe." Anything can happen anywhere.

*Internet Violence. How many Children or Tweens are Susceptible to it?*

If your parents worked late nights or didn't pay much attention to your whereabouts, it's likely you rebelled. We all strike against our parents in diverse ways. Whether it involved late night chats on the computer or watching a rates R movie when you know it's not the right thing to do. If you're smart, you'll turn to Internet chatting, but you won't reveal your true identity. If you are vulnerable and naive, you will. If you were never taught to distance yourself from strangers, then you will fall in the trap. This gives a perpetrator a chance to stalk you, come to your house, or meet you. You may not think it's a danger, but it's a possibility that the perp is not who you believe it is. He may be an old man who is into assaulting young girls. If you weren't taught the values or your body and your mind and you are a young girl, please protect your self. You don't want to be a victim of a murder or rape. Don't chat in chat rooms at all. They are not 100% safe. Don't reveal your identity to anyone. Don't ever tell anyone you are home alone. Don't send your pictures to anyone. Don't allow your self to become a victim. Be safe and talk to your parents. They love you and you are more important than you may think you are!

*Travel Plans Booked Ahead? Check Your Tickets Every Day!*

Are you planning on an extravagant vacation to Europe this summer? Or maybe, you're just going to visit family in the United States. Have you purchased your tickets ahead of time to ensure your place? Make sure you check the status online every few days! Believe it or not, some airlines will make changes or cancel your trip without notification. In the end, you'll be left with a suitcase and no place to go. Thank God I've been checking my travel arrangements. I'm traveling to Italy in July. The airline decided to cancel one of my connecting trips without sending an email. You can imagine my panic and surprise when I went online for a daily check up. I immediately called a travel agent to assist me. I was on the phone for two hours, but it was worth it. I'm still traveling to the same location for the same amount of time. So, don't wait until the last day. Check every few days! You won't be disappointed!

* Laser Tattoo Removal- Why Torture Ourselves?

Well, many people have wondered and asked. They have even gawked at my hand in amazement. "Is that ringworm? Is that a pen mark? If not, then what is it?" People seem amazed by the imprint on my left hand in between my index finger and thumb. It's a small tattoo. Yes, it's not perfect, but at one time it was. It's taken more than 9 treatments. My consultant lied and said it would only be two. I was fifteen when I branded the initial on my hand. It wasn't the smartest decision I've ever made, but it symbolized my love for someone. People may think, "love? What does a fifteen year old know about that?" A lot actually. It's been an extremely heart wrenching process. That "C" meant the world to me for over 6 years. It was part of my adolescence. It made up who I am today. It may sound corny, but it was part of my personality. It stood for a person that I once admired. I don't dare to write his name. It's too painful. Therefore, with sincere condolences to my readers, I will explain the laser process. It lasts less than a second and burns for a few minutes. You must put a healing moisturizer on the wound, so that it doesn't leave a scar. I'm not saying that it will, but if you don't care for it the correct way it will. In the end, you won't forget it was there, but the removal was worth it. 

*** How Do I Gain Exposure ***

Are you writing a song, book, etc. and are trying to gain publicity? Make a music video, start a blog, turn to YouTube or the Internet for exposure. It won't be easy, but it won't be that hard either. Make sure that you copyright your material, so people don't steal your ideas. You might think, "Copyright? How the hell do I do that? Is it free?" No, it's not free and you must register your work at www.copyright.gov for complete protection. It might not seem worth it, but if your idea is worth millions, then it is. After you get copyrighted, make your work viral. You never know, if at the right time, the right person sees your work, you can receive that break at any time. You have to be motivated and persistent. In turn, all of your dreams will come true!