Michael Blosil, the 18-year-old son of entertainer Marie Osmond, was found dead Friday night after he apparently jumped from the 8th floor of his L.A. apartment building. 

Michael had a history of suffering from depression and his friends say that he had attempted suicide at least once before. 

TMZ reported that Michael had plans to meet with a friend on Friday evening, but he texted her at the last minute, just before 9 pm, and informed her of a note that he'd left at his apartment for her.  The woman and Michael's roommates found the note together.  According to the website, the note talked about his unhappiness, said that the woman was his only friend in the city, and listed things that he planned to do for the last time.

Almost right after finding the letter, the group heard sirens outside and Michael's body was found shortly after.

Marie Osmond issued this statement:

"My family and I are devastated and in deep shock by the tragic loss of our dear Michael and ask that everyone respect our privacy during this difficult time."

I can only imagine what that family is going through. My thoughts and prayers are with them.

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By now you've heard that the body of missing Growing Pains star, Andrew Koenig, was found last week in Vancouver and his death has been labeled a suicide.  Now, a source close to the investigation says that the 41 year old actor hung himself in Vancouver's Stanley Park.   

It has been reported that Andrew's body was found late Thursday "in a densley wooded area...unseen from the path" by a search party made up of family and friends.  The source now reveals that Andrew's body was found hanging from a tree in that secluded area--adding that "Andrew didn't want to be found." 

Andrew Koenig, who played "Boner" on Growing Pains, went msising on February 16th.   His parents, Walter and Judy Koenig, have asked Andrew's fans to honor his memory by donating to the National Suicide Prevention Hotline or the U.S. Campaign for Burma.

R.I.P. Andrew Koenig

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Remember I told you about  6 year old Jasmina Anema, who lost her battle to cancer last month?  She was made famous when Rihanna took a liking to her and the two became close friends. 

Well, Jasmina's mother is calling Rihanna out! Here's a tweet she posted under the screen name ONEFORJASMINA:

RIHANNA'S BIRTHDAY LAPDANCE from YBF Chic on Vimeo.

Rihanna's birthday was this past Saturday (Feb 20) and according to snitches, her boo, Matt Kemp threw her a party...complete with-yeah you're seeing correctly-a midget stripper! 

Alrighty then....looks like Rih Rih enjoyed herself.

(In the un-cropped version of this pic, you can see Matt Kemp....or a an extreme look-alike...in the background)

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Angela Martin may not have made the Top 24 on American Idol, but she walked away with one heck of a prize. 

Rewind to the first time Angela auditioned for American Idol.  She got a ticket to Hollywood, but sadly, her father was murdered and therefore she didn't continue with the show.  The second time she auditioned and made it, she was forced to leave the show to serve a short jail term for unpaid traffic tickets.  And if that doesn't make for a hard life for Angela, then the fact that her 10 year old daughter suffers from Rhett Syndrome definetly adds fuel to the fire.

But it gets worse.  Angela's mother, Viola Martin has been missing since Christmas...and her case has been profiled on "America's Most Wanted."

Now fast forward to Angela's third American Idol audition.  So on her third try, Angela made it Hollywood but was cut shortly after.  And unfortunately, for her, this is her last try.  Angela is 28 years old...and next year, she'll be too old to audition for the show again, according to A.I. rules.

But, there is a happy ending for Angela. 

After being cut from the show, she went appeared on A.I. judge Ellen Degeneres' talk show where she told Ellen, "I was preparing myself to be strong and talk to you guys, but then I saw the pictures of my daughter and I just fell apart.  I'm like, I failed her.  I was going to have to tell her mommy didn't make it." 

As Ellen hugged Angela, she told her "I have a surprise for you...Kara DioGuardi...She is going to write you a song, you're going into a studio, she is going to produce a song for you.  We're gonna get you a record label.  See?  See how things turn out?"

  And it gets better...

On Ellen's show, Angela talked about her missing mother.  Someone saw that AMW broadcast and reached out with a tip, giving hope that Viola Martin is still alive. 

Angela told Ellen: 

"'America's Most Wanted' called the detectives on the case and the detectives called my older sister and said they found her...on the South Side of Chicago, so we ran out looking for her and a guy at a liquor store said, 'You just missed her three hours ago.' So I'm like, 'My mom's alive.'  A huge weight was just lifted off me then and we started looking for her again and we just keep looking." 

Talk about surprises!  Amazing.  I wish Angela Martin nothing but the best...she deserves it.

UPDATE: Here's the vid of that Ellen episode:

*wipes tears*

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Um, so there are TWO pregnant men!?! 

First let me just say that I don't know the politically correct verbage, so if you get confused when trying to read this, understand that I'm just as confused.

You've seen the one on the left before...that's Thomas Beatie.  And did I mention this is baby # 3 for him!?!?  Well, yeah, it is.  

Thomas, who is married to a woman, was born a woman but underwent 10 years of sex reassignment therapy.  However, he kept her female reproductive organs.  Legally he is male.

In 2008, Thomas made headlines dubbing himself  the "first pregnant man."  And in June 2008, he gave birth to a daughter.  Then shocked the world again when he got pregnant again...giving birth to a baby boy that following year.  And how he's pregnant again.

But he's got some competition.

A California transgendered couple are expecting a baby boy this month.  Scott Moore and husband Thomas were both born female, but had surgery to change their sex.  Thomas had sex reassignment surgery just last year.  Scott still has female organs and got pregnant with sperm from a friend. 

Scott and Thomas, who are legally married, plan to name their son, Miles.  They have 2 other sons from Thomas' previous relationship with a woman who has since passed away.  10 year old, Logan, and 12 year old Greg have often been teased about their family, so questions have been raised about whether or not this new baby will have to deal with it too.  But, Scott and Thomas say there is nothing to worry about.

TODAY, AT 11 A.M., Tiger Woods is set to make his first public statement since the Thanksgiving car accident that sent his life in a downward spiral!  While it's not confirmed what exactly he will say, Tiger is expected to address the accident, more than a dozen affairs, his marital status, as well as his if and when he will return to golf.  He will not be taking any questions at the news conference. 

Tiger has been out of sex rehab for a week, spending time with his children, but will return after the news conference.   

Again, I ask....Why are we still on this??  But, I'm not gon lie, I'm gonna watch.  All I want him to say is, "yeah I did it...get out of my business and let me handle mine..." and I'll be coo. He'll actually gain back a drop of my respect just for manning up and owning up to it.

Will you watch?

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So this is  Beyonce's little brother??? 

Papa Matthew Knowles has been slapped with a paternity suit by his alleged baby's mama, Alexsandra Wright.  Although a paternity test for baby Nixon is not scheduled til March 1, an L.A. judge granted Alexsandra $8,200 a month in child support...to be paid immediately! She was also granted $20,750 just for the month of January.  Matthew has not admitted to anything, but according to reports, he voluntarily gave up $10,000 for baby expenses. 

That's pretty sane behavior for Gary, right?  Think again.  Here's where things went all the way left:

LOL and SMH all at the same time.  That darn Gary!  But, I don't blame him for getting mad...homegirl provoked him.  But, you need to quit lying Gary. LOL

Somebody told Dru Hill it would be a good idea for them to make a comeback.  Here's their new single and vid, "Love MD" off of their new album "InDRUpendence Day." *rolls eyes*

EPIC FAIL

One mascot thought it would be funny to imitate Beyonce's "Singles Ladies" dance in front of Jay Z.  But he, nor Diddy, looks impressed. 

LOL!

Justin Bieber is barely a teenager and he's already got the ladies crying over him.  Well, something like that (click the link to view the video):

Girl cries over Justin Bieber

LOL! How cute was that!?  Sanjaya's little crying girl ain't got nothing on her!  

Well, you knew this was coming!   One of Tiger Woods' alleged mistresses has come forward claiming that the golfer got her pregnant...not once, but twice!

Porn star Joslyn James says that she had a miscarriage the first time.  She says that the day she was planning to tell Tiger about the baby, was the day that she miscarried.  "After I lost the baby, I didn't want to talk about it," she said.  She also says that the miscarriage made her "more emotionally attached" to Tiger.  *blank stare*

Joslyn chose to have an abortion the second time because the baby was due to be born around the same time as Tiger's son with wife Elin (Charlie who is 1 years old).

"I didn't want to ruin anything," she said.  Ummm ok.

Joslyn says her affair with Tiger started in 2006 and ended in 2009.  She says that using protection "was never talked about."  Nasties!    

But get this...Joslyn says she feels bad for Elin Woods because "She didn't deserve this, and she didn't deserve being humiliated." 

Sooooo, do you feel bad about sleeping with her husband???  I mean, you seem to care so much about her feelings now, but did you give a second thought to how she felt or what she deserved when you were getting it in with her husband, without protection???  Just asking.

Anyway......

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Hollywood actor and director Kevin Smith was kicked off of a Southwest Airlines flight over the weekend because, apparently, he's too fat.  Now, I've heard of this "policy" before, but I didn't really think they took it that seriously.  That's kind of humilating and degrading if you ask me.  But, no one did ask me, sooooo....

Kevin (you may know him from the Jay and Silent Bob films) said the captain of the plane removed him because he was considered a "safety risk." 

So what did Kevin do?  Same as every other celeb...he took it to Twitter!  He tweeted more than 50 messages blasting the airlines. 

"I know I'm fat, but was Captain Leysath really justified in throwing me off a flight for which I was already seated? "

"Again: I'm way fat...But I'm not THERE just yet. But if I am, why wait til my bag is up, and I'm seated WITH ARM RESTS DOWN.  In front of a packed plane with a bunch of folks who'd already I.d.ed me as 'Silent Bob.'"

"Thank God I don't embarrass easily (bless you, JERSEY GIRL training). But I don't sulk off either: so everyday, some new f**k-you Tweets for @SouthwestAir. You f***ed with the wrong sedentary processed-foods eater!"

"The @SouthwestAir Diet. How it works: you're publicly shamed into a slimmer figure. Crying the weight off has never been easier!"

"I've landed in Burbank.  Don't worry: wall of the plane was opened & I was airlifted out while Richard Simmons supervised." 

LMBO! Well at least he has a good sense of humor about it. 

Southwest Airlines offered Kevin a $100 voucher, which he refused, and put him on another flight.  They apologized to Kevin via Twitter, then blogged that Kevin usually purchases two seats whenever he flies. 

Yeah yeah...the policy still sucks. 

Well that's all for today folks! Until next time! Don't forget to leave your 2 cents!

Well, I thought the idea was great.  The fact that so many celebs got together for one cause was amazing.  However, the song itself, wasn't as great as it could be.  I think the hip hop element was way too dominant in this one.  Granted, hip hop is practically what's leading the industry right now, but for a song like this, it could've been toned down a little more.  And the digitally inserted Janet next to the original video clip of Michael was definetly an "awwww" moment. 

But like I said, the idea was great. The results? Not so much.   And I will say this...it was better the second time I watched it. 

Your thoughts?

John Mayer is known for being a bit of a comedian sometimes, but one of his recent comments just landed him knee deep in doo doo!

The singer recently did an interview with Playboy Magazine and he gave his reasons on why he doesn't have sex with black women.

Lil Wayne was supposed to wake up this morning in Riker's Island, but a Manhattan judge let him keep his freedom just a little while longer. 

Weezy's sentencing was postponed Tuesday because the rapper has to finish recent dental surgeries before he goes to the big house.  He has until March 2 to get 'er done.  And Supreme Court justice Charles Solomon said that it wouldn't be put off any further. 

Defense lawyer, Stacey Richman said that Wayne had planned to take care of the issue before he appeared in court on Tuesday, but his dentist had been out of the country doing charitable work. (So, there aren't any other dentists in Miami?)  And the Assistant District Attorney didn't bother to fight the request to push Wayne's sentencing back because, she says, she had spoken to the dentist herself. 

Talk about luck.  I hope they make him remove those nasty looking teeth he has in his mouth.

And the day before he was set to go to jail, Lil Wayne uploaded a video message to his fans:

(Have fun watching that...it's dang near an hour long...I couldn't sit through it, lol)

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So, apparently Kim Kardashian got her demand wish.  The deal was, Reggie wins the Super Bowl, they get engaged.  And from what I year, that happened last Friday...a few days early.

According to TheYBF.com,  Myles Chefetz, the owner of Prime 112 in Miami told a table of patrons, which included rapper Ludacris, that Reggie and Kim had indeed gotten engaged.  He said that Reggie popped the question in a private corner of the restaurant with both of their families present. Womp.

Pics taken as the couple left the restaurant (like the one above) clearly shows Kim trying to hide her left hand and Reggie was even caught checking to see if her hand was covered.  Not to mention, there was a tweet from one of Kim's friends that support the rumor.

Sorry, but I refuse to say congratulations.  If you know me, you know how I feel about these two...mainly Reggie.

However, I do I have a bit of a bone to pick.  For the life of me, I can't understand why this "famous because of my last name" chick is getting more PT than Reggie this last week.  HE won the Super Bowl...not SHE or WE!  Tabloids and paparazzi are more concerned about what she's doing or what she has to say about the whole thing, than they do about how Reggie feels or what he has to say.  The crap is irritating if you ask me.  But whatev....

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Academy Award winning actor, Louis Gossett Jr. announced Tuesday that he had been diagnosed with prostate cancer. 

He told a Los Angeles news station that he went public because he wanted "to set an example for the large number of African American men who are victims of this disease because of the comparatively low emphasis in our community on preventative examinations and early treatment."

The 72 year old actor is in the early stages of prostate cancer and has begun treatment. 

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Well, that's all for today folks! Don't forget to leave your 2 cents AND follow me on Twitter @rashedasrundown! Until next time! 

In typical Lil Wayne fashion, he and the rest of his Young Money crew, kicked off his jail bid with a going away/New Orleans Super Bowl celebration party in Miami.

The 27 year old rapper is set to be sentenced today after pleading guilty back in October in a gun possession case.  Under his plea agreement, Weezy will spend a year at Riker's Island, but if he's on good behavior, his sentence can be trimmed down to about 8 months.

Drake and Lil Wayne

Drake and Nicki Minaj

BG and Baby aka Birdman

 Sean Garrett came through

Of course, Lil Wayne was boo'd up with Young Money's Shanell (I'm willing to bet my paycheck that this chick comes up pregnant---if she's not already!)

Looks like drunken fun...

Well, Lil Wayne goes in, T.I. comes out. The way I see it, that's a fair trade.

Farewell Weezy!

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Dr. Conrad Murray has officially been charged with involuntary manslaughter in the death of pop icon Michael Jackson.  Just hours after the doctor was charged, he entered a not guilty plea.  And two hours after that, he posted $75,000 bail and was released from custody.  He is due back in court on April 5th for a preliminary hearing.  

*side note* $75,000 bail is three times more than the amount that one would normally face after being charged witn involuntary manslaughter. (That's what you get for killing the Michael Jackson!)

Dr. Murray's lawyer said that he will continue to practice medicine in Nevada and Texas while he awaits trial.  But, the judge ordered him not to use any anesthesia on anyone while he is out on bail.  I wouldn't let that man check my heartbeat, let alone sedate me!

But, the deputy state Attorney General told the judge that the state Medical Board are seeking the suspension of Dr. Murray's medical license.  However, that would only affect his ability to practice medicine in California.

If convicted, Dr. Murray could face up to 4 years in prison.

The Jackson family sat in the courtroom, seated behind the prosecutors, as Dr. Murray faced the judge.  Joe, Katherine, LaToya, Rebbie, Jermaine, Tito, Jackie, and Randy.  And you know they had something to say!  As they were leaving the courtroom, Joe Jackson said, "My son was murdered.  We need justice."  Katherine popped off too, calling Dr. Murray "a monster."

Joe Jackson went on Larry King Live and said he believes that Dr. Murray isn't the only one responsible for Michael's death.   "To me, he's just the fall guy.  There's other people I think involved with this whole thing," he said. 

He went on to say that Michael, himself, believed that people were out to get him.  "Michael said it himself that he would be killed," he said.  "He even told his kids that he would be murdered."  Wow.

LaToya Jackson agrees with her father.  "Michael was murdered and although he died at the hands of Dr. Murray, I believe Dr. Murray was a part of a much larger plan," she told Access Hollywood.  "There are other individuals involved and I will not rest and I will continue to fight until all of the proper individuals are brought forth and justice is served." 

Randy Jackson took to his Twitter account to express his disappointment and concern with the fact that no one benefitting from his brother's death were present in the courtroom.  "Sitting in court & I'm sad.  Those profiting most from my bro's death: AEG, Randy Phillips, Kenny Ortega, Estate Executors r nowhere in sight," he tweeted.

Tito thanked the fans via his Twitter page.  "a sad tito--my family and i are happy that you have all expressed you love and support--thank you from the bottom of our hearts," he wrote.

Meanwhile, the official case report in the death of the King of Pop was released Monday as well.  It confirms that Michael died of "Acute Propofol Intoxication" and lists a "Benozidzepine effect" (whatever that is) as being related to the cause of death. 

According to lab analysis,  traces of Lidocaine, Lorazepam, Propofol, Diazepam, and Midazolam were all found in Michael's system.

You're going down Dr. Murray!!!

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Maaaaan I swear Gary Coleman looks like a crazed pitbull or something from a horror flick in this mugshot! I know I'm wrong...I know it's mean...but tell me you're not thinkin the same thing! You know you are!!!

Anyway, ol' Gary pleaded guilty to misdemeanor criminal mischief in relation to that domestic violence case he caught a couple of weeks ago.

Apparently, the incident happened on April 18th of last year.  An argument with his wife/ex-wife/whatever, Shannon Price, escalated.  Gary missed his court day and therefore was arrested on January 24 for failing to appear.  He was released the next day after a random die hard fan posted his $1,725 bail. 

Now, there were originally two charges--assault domestic violence and criminal mischief domestic violence--but they dismissed the first count and he pled guilty to the second one. 

So, now Gary must spend 30 days in jail, pay a $595 fine, and attend a domestic violence course.  If he completes the course successfully, his jail time will be suspended.

Again ya'll, pray for this man...he needs him some Jesus.

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Charlie Sheen appeared in a Colorado court on Monday, but he did not enter a plea.  Instead, the judged adjusted the protective order against him, which now allows him to be in contact with his wife, Brooke Mueller, who accused him of assaulting her with a knife on Christmas day. 

Charlie was also charged with felony menacing, third-degree assault and criminal mischief.  Again, Charlie did not enter a plea and is due back in court on March 15th.

According to witnesses, he and his wife walked out of the courtroom hugging.   

SMH....

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Somebody get Maury on the phone for this special episode of "Matthew Knowles, Are You My Baby's Daddy!?"

 So, everything ain't all peachy keen in the House of Dereon afterall!  Remember, I told ya'll that Beyonce's daddy was rumored to be cheating on Beyonce's momma with a jumpoff that he helped get a job at a record label?  And remember I told ya'll she was rumored to be pregnant?  And remember I told ya'll this was rumored to be part of the reason that Matthew and Tina Knowles are getting a divorce?

Well, now, Miss Alexsandra Wright claims that she delivered their baby boy last Thursday!  And his name is....Nixon!  Alexsandra says that she and Matthew picked out the baby's name together while they watched the movie "Frost/Nixon." 

According to TMZ, Alexsandra has a court date set for next week in an attempt to get some child support because, she says, she hasn't gotten penny from Matthew for the baby.

But, Matthew's reps told TMZ, "We are not aware of the birth of a child. Mr. Knowles has never had a DNA test. These rumors are untrue."

I have a feeling this is about to get ugly!  I got my popcorn ready!

But, wait...does this mean that Jay Z doesn't have to change his last name to Knowles-Carter, to carry on the Knowles name, anymore?? I'm just askin....

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Well, that's all for today folks! I'll do my best to follow up on these stories as new dirt is dug up!   Don't forget to follow me on Twitter @rashedasrundown!  Until next time........ 



 

Well, former NFL star and "Dancing With the Stars" contestant, Warren Sapp, had a very, um, eventful weekend down in Miami.  Not just because he was there to partake in the Super Bowl festivities, but because he spent part of it in a Miami jail...on domestic violence charges.  

He was charged Saturday afternoon after reports that he basically man-handled some chick in his hotel room.  Here's the story, according to ESPN:

The domestic violence allegation was reported around noon Saturday and detectives interviewed Sapp later that day, Sanchez said. The alleged physical altercation against a female acquaintance took place at 6 a.m. ET Saturday at the Shore Club Hotel, where Sapp was staying, ESPN's Kelly Naqi reported, according to a source.

The victim had a swollen knee and bruises on her neck, according to an arrest affidavit. She told detectives that she was partying with Sapp and her friends at the hotel and asked for his room key when she grew tired. Sapp reportedly woke up the victim a few hours later and they started to argue. She told investigators that Sapp started to choke her and pushed her down on a couch.

As the argument escalated, Sapp grabbed the woman by her shirt and neck and threw her down again, the affidavit states.

Sapp told investigators that he let the woman stay in his room but asked her to leave a few hours later. He told police that the woman fell on her leg when he tried to help her get off a couch.

Warren has since posted a $1500 bond and was ordered to stay away from the victim.

Soooo, let me get this straight, Warren.  This woman fell on her leg and busted up her knee caps, as she was being ASSISTED up off the couch?  And what about the alleged bruises around her neck? Did she fall on her neck too?  Your story makes no sense, Warren.  Do better.

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Reggie Bush twitpic'd this picture last night.  But, after reality sets back in, he's gon be kissing a whole lot more than that Lombardi trophy when Kim Kardashian comes across this video:

Ooooooooh!  

The girl in the video is Carmen Ortega.  She's the chick that was rumored to have broken up Kim and Reggie last year.  And if you haven't figured it out yet, she and her friend are taping their own little version of MTV Cribs in Reggie's house!  This chick is showing off his awards, cars, everything.

My first thought was "she couldn't've possibly thought this was a good idea." But, then I tried to think like a jumpoff would and I realized she knew exactly what she was doing!   This chick says she has text messages and everything! lol  2010....The Rise of the Jumpoff!

Here's video of Carmen on Lip Service radio show...Hear it from the horses mouth:

Parental Discretion is Advised (Can I do that? lol)  

SMH.....

I'll be sitting back with my popcorn in hand waiting for this to explode!!!!

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But, anywho....

Congratulations New Orleans Saints 2009 Super Bowl Champions!

*rolls eyes*

Yeah, I'm still a little bitter right now.  I'll give them their props when I get over it.

Nicci Nix impressed the American Idol judges when she bounced in the audition room with a high pitched, Italian accented voice claiming to have flown all the way to Denver from Florence, Italy.

 But, TMZ and several other cites are reporting that Nicci, who also goes by Nicci Palmeri, has also been on several other reality tv shows including, "Fear Factor," "Making the Band," "Next," "Exposed," and "Date My Mom." And get this, not only does she go by a different name, but she also doesn't speak with that helium voice!

Click here to watch clips of Nicci on Fear Factor and Making the Band.

She even has some videos floating around Youtube...

SMH....I wonder if American Idol is going to kick her off the show now.....

The LA County coroner says actress Brittany Murphy died from pneumonia combined with prescription drugs and anemia. 

Assistant Chief Coroner Ed Winter said that there was no evidence of wrongdoing in the actresses December 20th death.  In fact, he says, it was accidental and could've been prevented if Brittany had've gone to the doctor sooner.  He noted that she actually did have a doctor's appointment scheduled for just a few days after she passed. 

According to Winter, Brittany's pneumonia was serious and proved to be lethal when combined with the medications and iron deficiency anemia. 

He has not specified what types of drugs were involved in her death.  He says further details will be released in several weeks, once the report was complete.

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The LA County Coroner says that the sudden death of Johnson & Johnson heiress Casey Johnson was in fact diabetes related. 

Casey, who had been an insulin-dependent diabetic since childhood, died of diabetic ketoacidosis--a life threatening condition caused by lack of insulin and sky-high blood sugar. 

Former NYC Chief Medical Examiner, Dr. Michael Baden said that Casey likely slipped into a diabetic coma.  But, he says, people can usually be resuscitated from that in the first 24 hours. 

Casey's family could not be reached for comment.

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After failing to appear in court earlier this week, Dr. Conrad Murray is expected to surrender Friday afternoon, whether he's charged in Michael Jackson's death or not.   

Spokeswoman Miranda Sevcik said that Dr. Murray and his lawyers are fed up with waiting for the district attorney's office to make it's move.  So, Dr. Murray plans to surrender at a Los Angeles courthouse at 1:30 pm on Friday.  If he's not charged, Sevcik says, he will return to Houston, where he has a practice. 

Dr. Murray expects to be charged with involuntary manslaughter in the death of The King of Pop.

The district attorney's office has not said if it will charge Murray or not.

So, wait...Is this dude still practicing medicine???

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Eve could be involved in a money laundering scandal.  The rapper has officially been named in a massive U.S. Senate investigation into the illicit movement of millions of foreign dollars through the American financial system.

According to ABC News:

 Senate investigators spent three years tracking money flowing into the U.S. from the accounts of her on-and-off again boyfriend Teodorin Nguema Obiang. He is the playboy son of President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo of Equatorial Guinea, the corrupt dictator whose three-decade reign has been marked by rumors -- believed to be falsely spread to incite fear -- of cannibalism. Investigators believe most, if not all, of the millions in cash came from corruption related to the massive oil and gas reserves off the coast of the tiny West African country. 

According to the report released last night, Obiang used middle men  lawyers, escrow and real estate agents, and in one case, his then-girl friend, the statuesque rapper-actress Eve Jeffers  to allegedly set up shell companies in the U.S. Through those, investigators say, Obiang wired in funds that enabled him to buy luxury cars, a $30 million Malibu estate and place a down payment on a Gulfstream jet.

Two Los Angeles lawyers allegedly carried out most of the scheme. They were summoned to testify before the senate today to explain why they set up shell companies on Obiang's behalf.

Eve has a cameo in the report, as the president of what senate investigators described as a shell company. Obiang called it "Sweet Pink, Inc.," which was evidently set up in late 2005 "to employ individuals at the home [Obiang] maintained before he purchased the Malibu Property and to handle payroll and other matters related to the employment of those individuals," according to the report.

Click here to read the full story

Daaaaaaaaaang Eve...*cue "Whatever You Like" by T.I.*

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Jay Z is suing the companies involved with helping him develop a posh hotel on Manhattan's West Side. 

The lawsuit, filed Wednesday claims that Highland Capital Management LP, a financing firm, and NexBank, a Dallas bank, have attempted to "bleed additional funds" from the rapper/businessman.

According to Yo! Raps Magazine, Jay Z says that his company borrowed $52 million to build the hotel, but then abandoned the project when the economy went under.  That's when Highland Capital Management agreed to take over the property, but took four months to complete the deal.  So, each day the deal was delayed cost Jay Z a total of $20,000.   He also says that the money the investment firm is asking for is in excess of what he pledged to pay, and that both Highland and NexBank acted in bad faith when they received the deed in lieu of foreclosure on the property.  

Jay Z is seeking more than $3.7 million in damages for interest and other costs that were incurred as a result.

A Highland spokeswoman said, "Highland Capital Management believes the claims asserted by Mr. Carter are meritless and will vigorously defend itself and intends to pursue the obligations owed to Highland's investors."

Ummmmm good luck with that....

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If you were walking past your cafeteria at work and saw this sign, what would you think??  

Well, Questlove--drummer for The Roots (Jimmy Fallon's house band)--saw this outside of the cafeteria at the NBC building in New York.   So, he took a picture and tweeted it, with the message "Hmm HR?" attached. 

That sparked a whole lot of controversy, deeming NBC racist.  And apparently NBC wasn't too happy with the speculation brought on by Questlove's tweet, because shortly after, he sent out another tweet.  "I think I need a twitter break.  I done started something and now I must put out the fire."

NBC removed the sign and apologized via the same outlet in which this whole thing was brought out...Twitter.  Kevin Goldman, NBC's VP of communications, tweeted, "The sign in the NBCU cafeteria has been removed.  We apologize for anyone who was offended by it."

So, what do you think? Do you find this sign offensive or racist?

Now, listen to the chef who created the menu's explanation: 

So now, what do you think? 

Here's my take on this situation...I am not someone who gets offended easily, however, I do not take too kindly to stereotypes.  As a black woman, if I saw a sign like this, I would be slightly irritated by it and may even ask for an explanation.  But, I wouldn't start an all out race war.  And the reason behind my being offended wouldn't be because it's racist, so to speak.  It would be because it is extremely stereotypical.   I'm going to be honest, with the exception of the black eyed peas and jalapeno cornbread, I eat everything on that menu...not because I am black and that's what's expected of me, but because I like it.  I eat sushi like there's no tomorrow, Indian food, Chinese food, all kinds of food.  Does that make me less black?  Honestly, it really shouldn't matter.

Now, here's the part where I straddle the fence a little bit.  I do see where the chef was going with this whole Black History Month idea.   I think her heart was in the right place.  I mean, as black people, we do eat that stuff.  However, I do not think it was executed very well.  The sign, to me, was poorly worded and designed.  There's nothing wrong with opening people's minds to things they've never tried before or don't get to indulge in often.  But, in my opinion, the sign screams "Hey, it's Black History Month...come eat like the black people eat!"  That's not okay. I just think it could've been executed differently.  That is all.

That's all for today folks...Leave your 2 cents! Until next time...... 

Celebs from every genre came together Monday night to record the remake of "We Are the World" for the Haiti earthquake victims.  This is the 25th anniversary of the song, that was originally recorded to raise awareness of the famine in Africa, and included such musical greats as Michael Jackson, Stevie Wonder, Diana Ross, Bruce Springsteen, and Bob Dylan.   None of the original artists, however, were called back to contribute to this one.  The song's original producer, Quincy Jones, and co-writer, Lionel Richie, wanted all new, fresh faces and voices. 

More than 70 stars can be heard on the new version, and from some of the tweets and reports that I read, they were all starstuck with each other. 

Barbara Streisand, Kanye West, Wyclef Jean, Miley Cyrus, Natalie Cole, Celine Dion, Toni Braxton, Tony Bennett, Justin Bieber, Akon, Nicole Scherzinger of the Pussycat Dolls, Carlos Santana, Brian Wilson and Al Jardine of the Beach Boys (I hear they ignored each other), Josh Groban, Lil Wayne, Gladys Knight, Snoop Dogg, Drake, LL Cool J, will.i.am of the Black Eyed Peas, Keri Hilson, Trey Songz, Usher, Jennifer Hudson, Pink, The Jonas Brothers, Joel Madden, Julianne Hough, Mary Mary, Busta Rhymes, T-Pain, Jordin Sparks, Brandy, Kid Cudi, Mya, Tyrese, and Jamie Foxx are just some of who attended the recording and lent their talents. 

Organizers say that they were turned down for various reasons by some artists.  So, don't expect to hear Jay Z, Beyonce, or Taylor Swift on the track.  They also say that their "one regret" was that Lady Gaga wasn't there.  I don't know if she just wasn't invited, or if she turned down the offer. 

As I said before, many stars were in awe of each other.   Some of them met their own favorite artists or idols for the first time Monday night. 

"As celebrities, we're fans of one another, so we're all looky-looing in there, and getting autographs and numbers," said Natalie Cole. 

And while Trey Songz tweeted lyrics to the song, Keri Hilson tweeted how honored she was to be apart of history:

"I'm so honored to be in this room!!!!! We Are the World 25th Anniversary! Too many celebs to name...like the REAL celebrities not lil ol me!"

 Josh Groban said, "It's great to see so many legendary artists sweating it.  Everybody left their ego at the door."  "To be smack-dab in the middle of a sandwich between Barbara Streisand and Weezy was personally a creative experience I don't think I'll ever have the pleasure of having again," he added.

And speaking of Lil Wayne, he says he thought the organizers were joking when they asked him to sing the line of the song that was originally sang by Bob Dylan.  "I said, 'Are you kidding?'" he said.  "I don't know how to sing."  But, he did it. And when asked if he thinks he did a better job, his reply...."Hell no!"    

The 1985 version of "We Are the World" raised $30 million for Africa.  They hope to do the same or higher for Haiti.  The song and video, shot by Oscar-winning "Crash" director Paul Haggis, will make it's world premiere during NBC's coverage of the Vancouver Olympics on February 12.  It will then go on sale through traditional and online retailers.  All of the proceeds will go to a newly established foundation, which I hear, will closely monitor the disbursement of funds. 

Here's a few pics from Monday night's recording session:

Quincy Jones and Lionel Richie

Jennifer Hudson and Gladys Knight

Nicole Scherzinger, Tyrese, and Brandy

Akon

Quincy Jones, Wyclef Jean, will.i.am, Kanye West, Kid Cudi, and LL Cool J

Snoop Dogg

Jamie Foxx

India Arie snaps a pic of her and Jennifer Hudson

Lil Wayne

Pink

                                                   Brandy and Keri Hilson

                                    Robin Thicke, Trey Songz, Vince Vaughn 

                                             Nicole Richie and Joel Madden

                                         They brought cutie Harlow along

Celine Dion kicked it with the Jonas Brothers

Busta Rhymes and will.i.am

Miley Cyrus

T-Pain

Josh Groban and Adam Levine

Jennifer Nettles and Julianne Hough

LL Cool J in the booth with the legendary Quincy Jones

Fun times for a good cause

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The Oscar nominations are in!

"Avatar" and "The Hurt Locker" (which I've never even heard of) lead the pack with 9 nominations each!   

"Inglorious Bastard's is up for 8 nominations, including Best Picture.

"Precious" has 6 nominations including "Best Picture,"  "Best Actress" (Gabourey Sidibe--in her first acting role), "Best Supporting Actress" (Mo'Nique), "Best Director" (Lee Daniels), "Best Film Editing," and "Best Adapted Screenplay."

Disney Pixar's "Up" has 5 nominations, including Best Picture and Best Animated Film.  

The Academy Awards air Sunday, March 7 on ABC.  For the complete list of nominees, click here.

Congrats to all the nominees!

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And in other news....

 Rip Torn is headed to rehab after police say they found the 78 year old actor drunk with a loaded revolver inside a bank in Salisbury, Connecticut.  And get this...the bank was closed!

Police said they responded to an alarm, last Friday, at Litchfield Bank, and that's where they found Rip with a loaded gun and "highly intoxicated."  But, his lawyer says that Rip was disoriented and thought that the bank was his home.  

Rip was arrested and charged with burglary, criminal trespassing, and weapons offenses.  He is out on $100,000 bond and is due back in court on February 17.  He is then expected to enter a not guilty plea.  His lawyer says he will enter a rehab on Tuesday. 

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Kristen Bell and Dax Shepard are engaged?  Yes, I meant to put that question mark there. 

Kristen's publicist confirmed the couple's engagement Monday, but so far no other details are available.  Meanwhile, you can catch them both in the new romantic comedy "When in Rome." 

I didn't even know these two were a couple.  *shrug*  Congratulations!!!!

Well, that's all for today folks! Don't forget to leave your 2 cents and follow me on Twitter @rashedasrundown!

Until next time.....

Let's start with the red carpet....I don't think there was anyone there that looked absolutely terrible.  I think the majority of celebs looked pretty fab this year.  Let's take a look...

Lady Gaga surprised no one when she stepped onto the red carpet in this...piece of art.  There was speculation that Armani designed this dress for her.  Because it's Lady Gaga...and I've seen much worse, this isn't a complete fail for me.  However, I was worried she was gonna put someone's eye out.

Melanie Fiona looked fab.

Jennifer Hudson looked absolutely A-MAAAAAAZING!  That baby weight is just falling right off!

Musiq Soulchild...fire your stylist IMMEDIATELY! Purple suit and gold shoes? FAIL! My pic for worst dressed male. 

Adam Lambert. I really have nothing to say about this...this is how he dresses everyday.

Akon wore his Lady Gaga T-shirt. 

Well okay, Gayle King *snaps*

The Black Eyed Peas hit the red carpet.  This look is expected.

Fergie looked hot in this lil blue number. Get it Fergs!

Ashanti...ummmm, I don't really know how I feel about this.  It's not terrible, but it doesn't really move me either.

Ciara came dressed in "Givenchy from head to toe." If you can't figure it out, it's lace bottoms, a leotard to "cover up your ooh oohs and your ah ahs" (as she put it) and a jacket of some sorts.  I say.....FAIL!   

My fashion idol Rihanna looked gorgeous as usual in this Elie Saab, pale pink gown.  At first I was on the fence about this one, but the more I looked at it, the more I love it.   She is definetly on my best dressed list.

India Arie looked beautiful.  Nothing spectacular.

Keri Hilson looked flawless in this Dolce & Gabbanna gown.  Simple, yet gorgeous. Definetly one of my favs of the evening.

Oh, Niecy Nash.  Hate it.

Toni Braxton looked a mess.  The dress (I think it's Armani) is cute, the shoes and hair are not.  Not a complete fail, but pretty close to it.  It looks like she was in a rush and just had to go...ready or not.

Heidi Klum and Seal. On the fence about Heidi's dress, but Seal looked nice in all black.

John Legend looked dapper in this crisp gray suit.  He's one of my best dressed males...but he looks a little uncomfortable. 

The Jonas Brothers all looked so fresh and so clean.  I'm loving Kevin's look (that is Kevin in the middle right? I can't tell them apart.).  He's on my best dressed male list.  But on another note...ummm, soooo Nick Jonas has a solo cd coming out?  So, what is he like, the Michael Jackson of the group or something?

Kathy Griffin looked fab...for her.  She was nominated for a comedy album award.

Not feeling Katy Perry's look. 

Ke$ha came to the Grammy's looking all kinds of hungover, trailer park hooker, trash-tastic. I mean, is this Halloween or The Grammy's? This is the biggest FAIL of the evening.  And those knees are killing me...LOL

Keith Urban and Nicole Kidman got lovey dovey on the red carpet.

And Mary J. Blige looked gorgeous in this fuschia gown.  This looks more like a prom dress though.  I liked her performance gown way better.  She still looked fab though. 

How the heck old is Miley Cyrus really? Cuz if I seen this little girl out somewhere, I would never believe she was under 18.  She looked HOT.  Love the dress, love the shoes, love the makeup, love the hair color...Love it!

I thought Pink looked fab in this gown.  I didn't care a whole lot for the top of it, but I love the colors and the fit.

Sugarland hit the red carpet. Don't like the dress.

Taylor Swift.....ummmm, the dress doesn't move me.  But, I don't hate it.

Usher and Mya stopped to take a pic on the red carpet.  Nice look for both of them.

And my best dressed of the night title goes tooooooo......

Surprise, surprise....BEYONCE! She looked FLAWLESS in this Stephane Rolland gown.  I love the color on her...the jewelry, light makeup, simple hair...she pulled it together nicely.  Gorgeous!

And now to the performances and other pics from the show.

Beyonce changed into this mini dress after her performance. She kicked it in the audience with her hubby Jay Z and her nephew Juelz (Solange Knowles' son).  Cute.

Juelz looked sooo cute in his tuxedo and Nike's. Uncle Jay and Rihanna took him on stage with them as the accepted their Grammy for "Run This Town."

Toni Braxton and Celine Dion

Maxwell kicked it backstage.  I've never seen one man make women and straight men sweat. 

Carrie Underwood before the wardrobe change.

Jennifer Lopez will not let it go.  Her time is NOT up! lol  I don't love this dress. But I thought she looked cute.  Doesn't really do anything for me though.

Jamie Foxx looked like a ghetto Cap'n Crunch during his performance of "Blame It."  He brought out T-Pain and Slash to help him out.  Then he apologized to Jay Z for using AutoTunes at the end.  LOL!   He also brought his younger sister out on stage with him to dance.  

Beyonce performed "If I Were A Boy" and her rendition of Alanis Morrisette's "You Oughta Know."  The performance wasn't all that great for me and I didn't like the Alanis Morrisette cover.  Honestly, I was more interested in Bey's shoes than her performance.  *shrug* Sue me.

Black Eyed Peas performed...Loved their show

Mary J. Blige and Andrea Bocelli sang "Bridge Over Troubled Waters" for Haiti. 

Bon Jovi and Jennifer Nettles

Pink got wet and did her Cirque du Soleil act...again.  I loved it though.

Lil Wayne, Drake, and Eminem performed "Forever."  I was good and sleep at this point.

Lady Gaga exposed all of her goods during her opening performance.  The show was hot! She brought out Sir Elton John as a surprise guest. But, that's where the show slowed down for me.  I wanted her to do more.  Still loved it though. 

Taylor Swift performed with Stevie Nicks.  I just don't see the hype behind this girl.  There's nothing special about her to me.  *UPDATE: Angela Ganote corrected me and gave me the run down on Taylor.  Apparently, she's a big deal because no record label wanted her at first...then she found someone who believed in her, got a deal, wrote every song on her album and conquered the music world.  Plus, she's like 12.  So, okay, I eat my words.  Sorry, Taylor.  Call off the goons.  Thanks, Ang! lol   

Maxwell performed with Roberta Flack

Dave Matthews Band

And in a special tribute to Michael Jackson--Jennifer Hudson, Celine Dion (who looked great!), Smokey Robinson, Usher, and Carrie Underwood took the stage to sing "The Earth Song."  I thought it was perfect! It wasn't too much...it was simple.  And all those powerful voices on one stage made for a moving performance.  One thing I was a little thrown by is this whole 3D thing.  People in the audience and at home were supposed to get these 3D glasses to watch the show.  But, um, what for?  I hear that it was pointless, and not to mention, it made my dang TV blurry!   One of my Twitter friends said "So, is Michael Jackson supposed to be up there with them when you put the glasses on. If not, then what's the point?" lol I totally agree.  It was a good idea...I just don't know how well it worked. 

But the tribute got even more emotional when Michael's children, Prince, Paris, and Blanket came on stage, dressed in MJ attire, to accept a lifetime achievement award for their dad.

Bless their hearts. They were so nervous.

 The kiddies posed with Lionel Richie

Beyonce stole the show, winning 6 out of the 10 Grammy's she was nominated for.  

Trainwreck Ke$ha and Justin Bieber

Norah Jones and Ringo Starr

Lea Michelle from Glee and Ricky Martin.  Where the heck did they find him?? 

Sheryl Crow

Carrie Underwood won some gold

So did Green Day

and Keith Urban

and Kings of Leon

and Lady Antebellum

and The Zac Brown Band

and even the show's host, Stephen Colbert won Best Comedy Album for his Christmas CD.  (I think that was rigged). 

For a complete list of winners, click here. 

Congrats to all the nominees and winners.

Well that's all for today folks! Be sure to follow me on Twitter @rashedasrundown!  Until next time....

Steven Jackson of the St. Louis rams is being accused of beating up his girlfriend, Supriya Harris, while she was 9 months pregnant. 

Here's how TMZ is reporting it:

In here complaint, Harris, says, "Steven became enraged and pushed me to the ground, repeatedly."

Harris also claims Jackson, "forcibly grabbed my arm and flung me against the door.  I was crying and trying to protect my stomach from the blows, as I was 9 mos pregnant."

In the complaint, Harris claims Jackson "continued to shove me against the door until his nephew...interceded and yelled, 'uncle, she has a baby, stop.'"

Harris claims she was "bleeding heavily" from wounds she received after she was smashed into a door handle. 

Harris says Jackson took her to a nearby hospital--but instructed her to lie and tell doctors that she was injured from a fall in the shower. 

Ten days after the alleged incident, Harris gave birth to their son.  According to the complaint, Harris claims she left Steven 4 months later--after he threatened to beat her up again at a music festival in New Orleans.

Well dang.

And here's the picture that Supriya sent to TMZ

And of course, Steven was on it with the damage control.  Here's the statement he sent to TMZ:

 "It's disheartening that I have to address any alleged allegations 10 months later, but I have read the accusations made by Supriya Harris, and they are untrue."

SMH....When will these ballers learn??

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And it looks like Steven Jackson has a buddy in the assault club.  Fellow NFL baller Eric Green, now of the San Francisco 49ers, is in a bit of a pickle himself.  And this one is a little bit more shocking... 

A 38 year old woman named Angelina Mavilla is accusing the baller of sexual assault.   But there's a plot twist...

You see, Angelina is transgendered.  She says she met Eric in early 2009, when he still played for the Arizona Cardinals, at a casino in Scottsdale, Arizona.  She claims they went back to his condo and that's where Eric raped and sodomized her. 

She says that afterwards, Eric threatened her, saying "This never happened. You better not tell."

Angelina filed a lawsuit agains Eric demanding $10 million. 

SMH...SMH...SMH!

Part of me believes this story, but the other part of me is wondering if this is just one sick attempt on a come-up.   I don't know, but either way, it's a huge mess. 

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I feel like a broken record saying this, but Lindsay Lohan Daddy has been arrested...yes, again.

Michael Lohan was arrested Thursday morning in Long Island, NY and charged with criminal contempt. 

His ex-girlfriend, Erin Muller says he called her at work on January 21, which was a violation of a protective order.  

Last year, Michael threatened to kill Erin and himself if she left him.  Then a judge told Michael that he woudl avoid prosecution on an aggravated harassment charge if he didn't get into trouble for a year.   That quickly went out the window, because Michael was arrested 6 months later for attempting to contact Erin. 

Michael denies these allegations. 

Get it together, Lindsay Lohan Daddy...please!

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Maybe you've heard of her, maybe you haven't.  But, I've posted at least one blog about little Jasmina Anema before.  She's the 6-year-old girl that captured the hearts of many, including several celebrities, as she bravely battled leukemia.  On Wednesday, January 27th, Jasmina lost that battle.

Jasmina was diagnosed with leukemia in January 2009.  With the help of many, including celebs like Rihanna, Kelly Rowland, and Lamar Odom among others, launched a mission to find a bone-marrow donor.  In June, Jasmina received a mismatched 9/10 marker transplant, then relapsed in September.  According to Zimbio.com, "at the end of November Jasmina was rushed back to the hospital suffereing from a swelling of her brain caused by a medication she was taking combined with high blood pressure. By the end of the December the Leukemia was back. On New Years Eve Thea, Jasmina's mom, found out her Leukemia had split and had become two different types of Leukemia AML and NK. Less then three weeks later the Leukemia had mutated to AMML which is not treatable in post transplant patients."

On Monday, January 25, Jasmina was rushed back to the hospital after suffering fevers and shortness of breath.  She was then diagnosed with pneumonia.   On Wednesday, at 10:55 pm, Jasmina passed away.

This message was posted on Jasmina's Twitter account:

"At 10:55 on January 27th, after a long battle, Jasmina lost her fight with leukemia.  Thanks for all of your support."

Jasmina with her adopted mother, Thea

Some of Jasmina's celebrity friends have spoken out about her death.  Los Angeles Laker's star, Lamar Odom, said on his Twitter page,

"I'm very sad to hear that my little friend, Jasmina, lost her battle with leukemia.  My prayeres are with her family." 

President Obama sent this statement on behalf of his family:

But Jasmina was Rihanna's #1 fan and friend, and Rihanna was hers. 

Jasmina stole Rihanna's heart after she saw a video made by Jasmina's best friend and mother in an effort to find a bone marrow donor for her.  Rihanna made a special visit to New York to see Jasmina, and made a video of her own to help Jasmina find a donor.  Rihanna frequently visited Jasmina and in November, Jasmina went to surprise Rihanna at an in-store signing, the day her album was released.

When Rihanna heard the news of Jasmina's passing, she, too, gave a statement to UsMagazine.com.

"I am incredibly heartbroken that Jasmina has passed away," she said.  "She was such a brave and special child.  She showed me more strength and spirit than many adults I have met.  I feel blessed that I was able to have her in my life, and know that through her example she has saved many lives.  She was truly an angel on earth."   

Jasmina Anema was the face of DKMS America's "One for Jasmina" charity campaign.  She would have turned 7 in March.  

If you would like to know more information about becoming a bone-marrow donor or if you just wanna find out how you can help, please visit DKMSAmericas.org or OneForJasmina.com.

Jasmina with Chris Wilcox of the New York Knicks

R.I.H. Jasmina

Well, that's all for today folks.  Until next time.....