Obama: 'I Accept Your Nomination for the Presidency of the United States'

Barack Obama rolled out his plan for change as he accepted the Democratic presidential Nomination last night on the 45th Anniversary of Martin Luther King's "I Have a Dream" speech. "I stand before you tonight because all across America something is stirring, What the naysayers don't understand is that this election has never been about me. It's about you."

As we begin our Labor Day Weekend, what change is stirring in your life and community? What can you do today to join the "Dream of King" and the "Hope of Obama" to create YOUR American Dream? Live, hope and dream on PURPOSE. You have the power to make your life a living testimony of success. The obstacles in front of you are only temporary reminders that you are working towards your better good. Keep working, keep stirring, keep dreaming; you have the ability to make your American Dream...A Dream fulfilled not a Dream deferred.

Obama Makes History

Last night was not only a historical night for African-Americans but all Americans. Barack Obama sealed the deal as the first African-American Democratic Presidential nominee.

As we wait for his acceptance speech, many thoughts are going through my mind. I feel the struggle and persistence of my ancestors. Thinking of my great aunt Essie who pasted away last year at 106 who would have relished at seeing, in her life time, a black man win the democratic ticket for President. I am reminded of the 6:30pm phone call my from grandmother working the polls during past elections saying, "Dollie, get down here and vote." The joy I felt working the polls along side my grandmother, aunt and mom when 80% of our district came out to vote for the first black mayor of New Haven, CT; John Daniels. I'm overwhelmed at the fact that I will sit with my three year old son tomorrow evening and watch Barack Obama speak of the change and hope he has for this country as the next and first African-American President of the United States.

I am in awe.

Michelle Obama DNC Convention Speech

Michelle Obama is the ultimate Working Diva! Her speech last night was motivating and moving. She brings a whole new meaning to Superwoman! The struggle of her family is a common struggle we all have endured. How do we get to the next level: Hard work, dedication, faith, hope and creating change November 4th. VOTE!

Private Robin Thicke Listening Session

Saturday night I surprised my good friend Sharanda to a “Girl’s Night Out.” Little did she know that she would be spending it with her favorite singer Robin Thicke.

As we walked through the garden of the Delano Hotel on South Beach we felt the magic in the air. While waiting for Robin’s arrival we sipped on Strawberry Navanas and chatted with friends. It felt like a “Sexy in the City” moment: the girls hanging out talking love, fashion, and work as we waited to be serenaded by Robin Thicke.

When he arrived the room exploded with cheers and hand claps. With a simple hello, Robin sat behind a stunning transparent piano in the “Florida Room” and smiled graciously to everyone. Once he starting playing, silence settled as his sultry voice created a trance as he sang cuts from the new album. I caught myself having an EnVogue moment. (you remember the “Giving Him Something He Can Feel” video, right?) Yet, the tables were reversed as the ladies were watching Robin make the audience melt during “Lost Without You.” Then, in an instant, Robin got the party started with his new single “Magic” which turned the room into the scene from the “Good Times” portrait. Everyone dancing enjoying the good life and looking fabulous.

Check our pictures with Robin and his lovely wife actress Paula Patton. Robin’s new release, “Something Else” hits stores September 30th.

Retro-Obama

Considering the DNC Convention kicks off today, it is only fitting to show Barack's national debut at the 2004 DNC Convention. This week's events in Denver will be emotional and historical! Tell everyone you know to register and vote. We need to bring about change in American November 4th.

R.I.P. Bernie Mac

Comedian Bernie Mac past away earlier this morning at Northwestern Memorial Hospital from complications of pneumonia. Mac was 50. The King of Comedy was born Bernard Jeffrey McCullough on Oct. 5, 1957, in Chicago.

Mac suffered from sarcoidosis, an inflammatory lung condition that creates tiny bumps of cells in the the body's organs. His recent pneumonia was not caused by the disease.

Bernie Mac will be greatly missed. Prayers go out to is family and close friends.

Paris Hilton Respnse Ad

Hotel heiress Paris Hilton fires back after McCain's celebrity ad. Check it out and get a good chuckle. I'm not mad at you Paris. Now that's Hot!

Five Minute Fix August 6th

Not only do you need to pick up Ebony in September (Michelle graces the cover). But the entire Obama family is featured on the September issue of Essence Magazine. The future first family gave Essence an exclusive during the campaign. The future first family talks about this historical campaign and how their lives have changed. Barack and Michelle also get candid on everything from racism to HIV. I can't say it enough...this is a Beautiful Black Family!

Toni Braxton is on the short list of names to tango on the next cycle of ABC's Dancing with the Stars. Toni recently cancelled her gig in Las Vegas due to health issues. Is she ready to take on the ballroom? Time will tell. No word yet from ABC or Toni’s rep. If they add the video shoot dance category or Vegas Style category? Toni will nail it!

More money, More money, More Oprah. Of course, we knew this one…media mogul, Oprah Winfrey was named Forbes’ most Powerful Celebrity earning 275 million last year. Looks like Harpo won’t have any budget cuts!

"Run's House" is one my favorite shows. I love the way Run and Justine support and encourage their children to succeed. This family has been through so much and still they rise. So it outragged me when I found out that supposedly in France the show is called the "Ghetto Preacher." OK, pick your mouth up off the floor. Now listen, just because they are a black family with fare they are called Ghetto? I bet they are rockin' Run Athletics, Pastry, Baby Phat and Phat Farm over there thou'. Make your haters your motivators.

Looks like Miami-Dade Schools Superintendent Rudy Crew will remain in place for now after Mondays, 5 to 4 vote. However, he has announced he will make a decision in the next few weeks on whether or not he will resign on his own accord. Crew says, ''I've got to assess whether or not we can actually get out of that mess or is this going to be a permanent method by which we sustain the debate about education,'' For more check out hot105fm.com.

FEEL GOOD: Control

Do you remember being that young sister who yearned for control and independence? In 1986 when Janet Jackson came out with the song “Control” it was our theme song. I’m all grown up, ready and ABLE to take on the world. Responsibility, relationships, school, working, family…I GOT IT. At that age it appeared so easy to be our "own woman."

Once we have taken the “reigns of control," we think we have won! We say to our parents (in our minds of course) HA! So why is it when we step out into the real world and begin to live life, we let others take the Control we so desperately wanted to claim? Whether it is your significant other, a manager on the job, a co-worker, or a so-called friend, these control grabbers are all around us. It’s time to put them in check!

When you allow others to have control, you are stifling your growth as an individual. Fears and hang-ups can stray you away from truly living the life you are suppose to lead. Instead of Gaining Control you Lose Control. Let me tell you, the only thing I want to lose are these last 10 pounds of pregnancy weight! OK, that’s another posting. Any whooo…

In order for you to have the life you are meant to have; you must reclaim control over your most valuable asset…YOU. Regardless of your situation, you can make a difference in your life today. Don’t let others dictate your importance, your thoughts, your time, your desires, your passion, or your career. You are perfectly capable of running the business of You, INC. As the chief executive officer of your life, put at the top of your to do list everyday; “I have the love and confidence in myself to make all decisions regarding (insert your name)." Girlfriend, it’s time for you to call your own shots.

Think back at being that young sister listening to Janet’s song “Control.” How did it make you feel: empowered, strong, confident, all of the above? Take those emotions and put them to work positively towards your better good. You are in the driver’s seat taking the journey of your life to greater heights. You have it going on, you are incredible, you are loved, you are fabulous, and by all means...you are in CONTROL!

The Five Minute Fix August 5th

Beauty, Brains and Fashionista! Michelle Obama looks stunning as she graces the September cover of Ebony Magazine. Take an inside look and read a bit of the interview before the issue hit stands on August 12th.
On her style…“I do think what you wear is a reflection of who you are. I love to look glamorous when there’s a wonderful, purposeful event that is appropriate. But when I’m in Iowa campaigning with the girls, I am in Gap shorts and a T- shirt.”
On being a mom… “My first job in all honesty is going to continue to be mom-in-chief,” she says, “making sure that in this transition, which will be even more of a transition for the girls…that they are settled and that they know they will continue to be the center of our universe.”
On being married to Barack… “Barack and I—as partners, as friends and as lovers—we accessorize each other in many ways,” she said. “The best thing I love having on me is Barack on my arm and vice versa, whether it’s having him standing there smiling at me or watching him mesmerize a crowd or talk to some seniors in a senior center.”

50-Years of Loving Music The O'Jays will celebrate 50 years in music with a FREE concert in their hometown of Canton, Ohio this weekend. It's all a part of the Annual O'Jays Family Reunion which will also feature a scholarship awards banquet, golf outing, children's carnival, outdoor worship service, parade and FREE concert which will include a tribute to Eddie LeVert's sons Gerald and Sean. Uncle Eddie you may see me in Canton this weekend!

Can you say Flower Power! Another cycle of America's Next Top Model will debut in September. This picture is just too much. Doesn't it make you happy?

Lisa Raye out of Paradise... I was a little hot when I received this news from Lisa Raye's rep. Seems as if her trifling husband has another jump off. The statement released, implies her husband, Michael Misick is creepin’ with BET’s Rocsi of “106 & Park.” It goes on to say, that at this weekend’s Turks and Caicos Music Festival, popular BET VJ Rosci from 106 & Park was spotted canoodling with T&C Premier Michael Misick. Sources have even reported that Rocsi stayed at the Misick home and hosted guests as if she was the lady of the house.

Dang, it's time for it to go down! LisaRaye read "Waiting to Exhale" and kick him to the curb and get that settlement. You don't deserve this blatant disrespect.

Five Minute Fix August 4th

I had a chance to listen to one of my radio show from 2002 courtesy of my intern Jeremy. Jeremy has been a fan of my show and HOT 105 since he was 13. One of the features he loved was my 411 Entertainment Update. A feature that was X'ed for its length. However, Jeremy pointed out to me that not only did he look forward to the latest entertainment news, but he loved my spin on it. You know, since I had my son several years ago my radar hasn't been on the latest celebrity gossip. HOWEVER….I loved reporting it to my listeners and honesty…I miss it! Thanks Jeremy for the inspiration and the name of my new report. You're the best!

So...
Allow Me to Reintroduce Myself…
My name is Karen Vaughn with Karen's Five Minute Fix
Edition 1.0

UPDATE: Morgan Freeman is sitting up and talking from his hospital bed. Sources say he may have broken several ribs and injured his knee. His female passenger is doing fine as well. She suffered a few bumbs and bruises.

11:30am - Actor Morgan Freeman in Car Accident News just in that actor Morgan Freeman was in a serious car accident early this morning, when his car flipped over several times on the interstate at 1:45am this morning in his home town of Charleston, MS. Fire Rescue has to use the "jaws of life" to free him from the car. He was air lifted to a hospital in Memphis, TN for treatment. At the time he was traveling with a female companion while his wife was out of town. It's not like is wife didn't know he has a jump off. Morgan has been cheating on his wife for years.

Faith Evans speaks out in Tell All Book
Faith Evans Tell all Book is set to hit book stores Friday, August 29th. I just received my advance readers edition and I can't wait to leap into the 368-pages of Faith's story in her own words. Faith is also set to release a new album this Fall.

She talks about it all...from Biggie to Lil' Kim, to 2Pac and parenting. Evans says, "I want people to understand that although he was a large part of my life, my story doesn’t actually begin or end with Big’s death. My journey has been complicated on many levels. And since I am always linked to Big, there are a lot of misconceptions about who I really am. It’s not easy putting your life out there for the masses. But I’ve decided I’ll tell my own story. For Big. For my children. And for myself." I will have the 411 for you on Monday!

Tyler Perry is all about the Benjamins
Mr. Movie...Tyler Perry has just signed a new three year multi-million dollar deal with Lions Gate Films. This deal will include his TV, Movie and DVD releases. His new movie, "The Family that Preys Together" hits theaters on September 12th. The movies stars Alfre Woodard, Kathy Bates, Sanaa Lathan, Robin Givens, Tyler Perry just to name a few. Check out the Trailer right her on my blog.

Actress Christina Applegate battles Breast Cancer
Actress Christina Applegate is undergoing earlier treatment for breast cancer. The "Samantha Who" star is expected to make a full recovery. A lump was discovered during an regular MRI scan. The full statement reads: "Christina Applegate was diagnosed with an early form of breast cancer. Benefiting from early detection through a doctor ordered MRI, the cancer is not life threatening. Christina is following the recommended treatment of her doctors and will have a full recovery. No further statement will be issued at this time." Let's keep Christina in our thoughts and prayers.

Break after High School?
OK parents…don’t lash out at me in your comments. I’m just the messenger. They have been doing it in the UK for years, and now some American high school graduates are considering taking a breather. It’s called a “Gap Year.” But think about it…how many of your friends and family graduated from college in four years? I’m part of the five year club myself. Hey even Princeton, Harvard, Tufts and MIT are big fans of the “Gap Year.” If your child is burnt out, not quite ready, or want to explore the world…a break may be a good thing. Just know…in a year…baby you are GOING to COLLEGE. Don't get it twisted!

Karen Vaughn Book Club August 2008 Selection

Theme: Women celebrating women
Book Club Gathering and Coffee Tasting August 26th
Starbuck Coffeehouse
Sheridan Street and North Park Road
Hollywood, One Mile west of 1-95

Maxine Davis's life is careening out of control—her marriage is dull, her teenage daughters are driving her insane and she is days away from a big birthday. New York Times bestselling author Connie Briscoe spins a compelling story of betrayal, forgiveness and redemption in The Perfect Life. A nasty divorce and the tragic events of 9/11 help an empty nester see beyond the narrow confines of her material world. In Three for the Road, Essence and Blackboard bestselling author Lolita Files takes readers on a breathtaking road trip to self-discovery with Lillibelle Goldman, as she meets an unlikely kindred spirit… In This Time Around, by bestselling author Anita Bunkley, a successful career woman proves that life doesn't end at forty. At forty-nine, Anika Redmond has just received an extreme makeover. But even with her new, hot body and a power job, Anita is still searching for the one thing in life that eludes her—a happy ending…

Concert Review: Maze featuring Frankie Beverly and Lyfe Jennings

I had the pleasure of hosting the Heart & Soul Tour starring the legendary Maze featuring Frankie Beverly and Lyfe Jennings Saturday evening (Aug 2nd) at the James L. Knight Center in Miami.

Lyfe Jennings is a true performer that revealed his soul and passion. Once Frankie hit the stage...it was a NON-STOP Party. During the song "Running Away"...Frankie really got into it jumping around continuously on stage. The energy was electric! Everyone was on their feet. Shout out to Tamikia of Hair Xscape in Miami Gardens. She was on the floor with her crew grooving all night looking fabulous!