DIY Father's Day keychain

Supplies:

• Leather scraps
• Paper or card
• Pen
• Ruler
• White crafter's paint
• Masking or washi tape
• Paintbrush
• Cutting mat
• All-purpose glue
• Metal key ring
• Mod Podge (optional) 

Tools:

• Scalpel
• Leather punch
• Rivet gun
• Rivets

Instructions:

Draw out a template using your paper or card, and cut it out with a scalpel and ruler. For each keychain, you'll need a front and a back, but only the front will need an extended flap to loop around. Draw around the template onto the back of both pieces of leather.

Then, using a ruler and scalpel, follow the lines you've drawn to cut out your front and back pieces.

You should now have both sides to your keychain, which will look something like this.

Now you can go crazy with washi or masking tape to make the striped patterns. Use a scalpel and ruler to cut different sizes of strips, and secure them well, curling each strip around the back to prevent any paint from getting underneath.

Now you can paint in the gaps. Don't go crazy with the paint. Instead, do a number of thinner layers. This paint dries quickly, so you won't have to wait long between coats. I did 4 coats to get a nice, bright white. Leave to dry completely. If you want extra protection from chipping, paint on a layer of Mod Podge to finish.

Once the paint is totally dry, peel off the tape to reveal your pattern. Then glue the over-side of your back piece, using the nozzle to spread it evenly.

Press the back piece to the over-side of the front piece to stick both parts together.

Then bend your extra strip of leather around to the back (you can round off the shape with a scalpel, if you want). Choose the size of hole you want, and slide the leather punch so that it punches through all 3 layers of leather.

Find the right size rivet to fit through the hole you've just made. Then make sure you have the correct size bolt to match already screwed in. If not, then unscrew the rivet, and change to one of your other options.

Thread the metal key ring through the extra leather, and loop back into place. Then slot the rivet into the bolt hole, and push through the hole in your leather. Push the clamp together until it clicks and clips off the end.

And voila! Your keychain is ready to be wrapped up for your dad to enjoy. A simple but useful gift made with your own fair hands!

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Central Park townhouse

Photo credit: Zillow

Living in one of the most prestigious cities of New York most definitely comes with a price. A $114,700,000 price, to be more specific. Located in the famous Upper East Side of Manhattan, this 20,000 square foot townhouse not only comes equipped with drool-worthy views of Central Park, it also has a grand European style and flair to it. Built in the late 1800s, the classy space has not only 19 rooms to accommodate its owner, it also has a private deck, a fitness room, recreational facilities and a 23-by-12-foot swimming pool. Keeping its vintage elegance, the townhouse was renovated by its current owners to provide luxurious modern advances.

High-rise CitySpire penthouse

Photo credit: Zillow

If you love aerial views and are not afraid of heights, this high-rise penthouse is exactly what you've been searching for. Listed at $100,000,000, this triplex penthouse is located in the CitySpire building and said to be the highest terraced residence in the U.S. There are three levels, equaling 8,000 square feet on the interior and 3,000 square feet on the exterior. Offering 360-degree panoramic views of New York's finest buildings and landscapes either outside or inside with the use of floor-to-ceiling windows, the potential owner of this penthouse will always have something to look at. But no need to worry, there is plenty of privacy, as not only is the space 72 stories off the ground, it comes with its very own private elevator.

Midtown millions

Photo credit: Zillow

Dreaming of a New York City apartment with a view? Look no further than this $98,000,000 beauty. Featuring a view of America's beloved city's skyline in nearly every single room, including the kitchen, family room and master bedroom, there are two walls made entirely of windows in this stunning space — 9,000 square feet with four bedrooms and five and a half bathrooms with granite countertops, maple floors and Venetian plaster walls. Not to mention, this NYC apartment is equipped with the latest technology, making life easier than ever.

Fifth Avenue luxury

Photo credit: Zillow

The perfect space for those who don't mind the hotel life, this exquisite property is located in the famous Sherry Netherland Hotel. A five-star apartment with a five-star price of $95,000,000, the skyscraper offers the best of everything. Placed on the 18th floor, the potential homeowner will enjoy views of Central Park and the Upper East Side of Manhattan. With seven bedrooms, eight baths, a private terrace and direct access to the port, there isn't much reason to leave the stylish comfort of this plush space.

15 Central Park West condo

Photo credit: Zillow

The location alone gives this luxurious condo the authority to have the asking price of $65,000,000. A bargain compared to the other real estate listings, this 6,000 square foot condo offers some of New York's most famous and breathtaking views, including Central Park, the Hudson River, Columbus Circle, the Palisades and the Empire State Building. And that's just on the outside of the building! The inside gives the owner access to a fitness center, saunas, butler service, a library and more. Brand-spanking new, this never-lived-in space is a top-notch home for any true-blue New Yorker.

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We're still a month out from the premiere of FX's edgy new comedy and we're already giddy with excitement. Everything we've seen so far suggests the show will push the boundaries of people's idea of a functional marriage while maintaining the hilarity. Think This is 40 and Modern Family, but with the amazingly talented and supremely underrated Judy Greer. Married is exactly the show about marriage we've been waiting for, specifically because of the lines it comfortably straddles.

Watch all the shows! 96 New programs landing in 2014-2015 >>

Open marriages

In the case of Greer and Nat Faxon's couple on Married, it's not so much that they're no longer in love as they're just not making love. In one of the show's first promos, Faxon's character unleashes their dirty laundry at an unfortunate time. His biggest bombshell: His wife encourages him to go out and find sex elsewhere. There's a good chance that we'll soon find out she's really just saying it when exasperated by his come-ons and not in the mood. But, how intriguing would it be to see a mostly normal, entirely cool couple navigate the nitty-gritty aspects of that mostly unexplored kind of relationship.

Real/hysterical dialogue

Some of us playfully plot our next marriages in front of our current husbands. Does that mean anything? Not necessarily. Sometimes that plotting happens because we're comfortable enough with who and what we have to know being silly and dreaming big won't hurt anyone. Other times... we'd seriously love to have a second husband who was a little more handy around the house or had the bankroll that could afford to hire people. This couple humorously plots their next marriages without taking offense and we kind of love them for it.

Bonus: Check out all of HBO's upcoming series >>

Relatable issues

Comedies have a tendency to focus on the outrageous instead of the mundane. Playing the crazy card is fun, sure. But sometimes the mundane is just as silly. You go to parties and get house envy and tease your husband. A good writer can make that funny on its own, without throwing the wacky wife in the bathtub. We look forward to seeing sex feel awkward because the dog is watching, not because of some far less believable issue.

What happens when two sarcastic and funny people get married and make it past the honeymoon and into real life? FX's Married explores the after starting on July 17. We promise you'll laugh... and die a little on the inside when you can't be equally as funny about real life.

For more TV news and reviews, sign up for our newsletter >>

Photo credit: Walt Disney Pictures

Are you excited about all things Star Wars? Can't wait to get updates about Episode VII? We hear you, which is why we'll be posting news and images as they are shared on social media sites. Bookmark this page and come back often for images and updates about the film.

First pic of the Millennium Falcon revealed

Construction crews are hard at work building the Millennium Falcon on set.

The Millennium Falcon being built on the set of the new Star Wars pic.twitter.com/WFJXpugH2z

— Darth Vader (@DepressedDarth) June 3, 2014

Lupita Nyong'o officially joins cast

The super-talented Oscar winner and the Game of Thrones actress Gwendoline Christie have signed on to join Episode VII.

BREAKING: Lupita Nyong'o & Gwendoline Christie have joined the cast of #StarWarsVII! http://t.co/4O4O4l1CDU pic.twitter.com/C9fQJWV0WY

— Star Wars (@starwars) June 2, 2014

Star Wars: Episode VII adds Lupita Nyong'o to cast >>

Warwick Davis takes a selfie with new droid, Chopper

Warwick Davis is no stranger to the Star Wars world, having played the lead Ewok, Wicket, in Star Wars: Episode VI — Return of the Jedi as well as in the made-for-TV Ewok spin-offs.

#Selfie with the new 'Star Wars Rebels' droid, 'Chopper'. #SWfinale #SWW2014 pic.twitter.com/YDW4jKcg8g

— Warwick Davis (@WarwickADavis) May 25, 2014

Daisy Ridley tweets from set in Abu Dhabi

Looks like Star Wars cast member Daisy Ridley is settling in to her new desert landscape quite well.

Having THE best time here! Abu Dhabi is an incredible place. pic.twitter.com/9LUYUoMtV6

— Daisy Ridley (@ridley_daisy) May 24, 2014

J.J. Abrams offers fans a chance to be in the movie

Disney and Bad Robot are partnering with UNICEF to raise money and give one lucky fan a role in Star Wars: Episode VII.

ICYMI: J.J. has news from set: You could win a chance to be in #StarWarsVII & support a great cause. http://t.co/NLGsIAPdpO #ForceForChange

— Star Wars (@starwars) May 21, 2014

Star Wars VII: J.J. Abrams reveals how you can star in the film >>

Day one

We get shivers just looking at this picture from the first day of filming.

#dayone pic.twitter.com/18jtSH7xYM

— Bad Robot (@bad_robot) May 16, 2014

Photo credit: Zoonar/P.Jilek/Zoonar/360/Getty Images

Like their human companions, dogs too find comfort in having a doggie companion to rely on. Sometimes the bond is so great that when separated, even for a short time, the dogs each react anxiously and will even bark or whine until its other half returns. So how big of a problem is it to split a bonded pair when adopting them out together isn't an option? And can they find happiness in their forever homes apart from each other?

Benefits of adopting a bonded pair

First, adopting a bonded pair of dogs can be a rewarding experience for the dogs and their human. Amy Bowman, VDM, mid-Atlantic regional medical director for Banfield Pet Hospital, points out, "A pair of bonded pets is often less work than single pets — they keep each other entertained and help prevent some of the separation anxiety issues that we often see when pets are left alone." Besides, if you're looking for a pair of dogs, it's easier to adopt two that you're sure will get along, she notes. Happy dogs equal a happy owner.

Two types of bonded pairs

Bonded dogs might be siblings, a parent and offspring or just friends that were raised together from a young age. Regardless, a separation has to be done delicately and is not possible or even recommended in every situation. Emily Gear, founder, executive director and president of Louie's Legacy, a rescue organization, explains two types of bonded pairs. "If a pair is truly a bonded pair, and their relationship with one another is balanced and healthy, splitting them up can cause a grieving period and contribute to considerable behavioral turmoil in a new home," Gear explains. "They give each other some stability, and often one follows the other's lead, helping the more passive one to adjust more quickly than she/he otherwise would have." In this case, breaking up the pair can introduce new issues that were never present before, such as destructive behavior, fear aggression and separation anxiety, notes Gear.

The other type of bonded pair can benefit from being split up. Gear explains that this is the case when "the animals are young and they do not have a balanced, mutually beneficial relationship, or they are codependent, just like with people." She continues, "If one of the pets is considerably more dominant than the other and beats up on the weaker member, while the weaker member clings to the stronger member for security, splitting them allows the stronger member to learn appropriate, healthy social skills and the weaker to learn confidence and develop an individual identity." In this case, the dogs thrive after the split, and the weaker one develops in ways it never would have if it had remained with the other dog.

What's best for the dogs

No one likes to see a happy family broken up, and that goes for dog relationships as well. Geralynn Cada, certified dog trainer, author and dog-behavior specialist, reminds us that "even Noah loaded his ark in pairs. We, dogs and people, should run in pairs or groups, as we are pack animals after all." She says that "a great deal of trust is built within that pair. It's a shame to see that connection broken." But if a pair does need to be separated, she says that with time, each dog will be OK. "As long as they pair up with another one of their furry four-leggers, they will bond again."

The bottom line on bonded pairs is that if the relationship is healthy, they should remain together whenever possible. Always consider what's best for the dogs' quality of life first and foremost.

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Photo credit: Rob Rich/WENN.com

Dina Lohan was sentenced on Tuesday, June 3, for a driving while intoxicated arrest from back in September. Although the mom of Lindsay Lohan avoided jail time, she wasn't let off that easily.

Were Lindsay Lohan's parents banned from her new show? >>

Lohan was ordered to pay more than $3,000 in fines and fees, and given 100 hours of community service. She was also ordered to participate in an anti-drunken driving program, according to the Associated Press. She will also be required to attend a victim panel by Nov. 28.

"The only person responsible for this onerous ordeal is Ms. Lohan herself," the judge in the case said, according to The New York Daily News. "Fortunately, you didn't kill anybody or kill yourself. If there's a next time, you might not be so lucky."

"There won't be a next time," Lohan responded.

Lohan's driver's license was also suspended for a year, and she was ordered to install an ignition lock in her car that detects alcohol.

After she was arrested last September, Lohan's attorney issued a statement that said, "Dina Lohan is a good person. Her life has been dedicated to her four children. She has worked hard her entire life and she has been a 'Parent Trapped' with the entire world watching her in a fishbowl with murky water due to no fault of her own."

Stage moms face-off: Who loves a little too much? >>

Lohan said she was fleeing paparazzi when she was pulled over back in September. She was arrested near her home in Long Island for driving while intoxicated and speeding. Not only was the famous mom driving 77 mph in a 55 mph zone, but she also had a blood alcohol content level of 0.20 at the time of her arrest, more than twice the legal limit for driving.

"I just want to put this behind me," Lohan told reporters after her sentencing.

Photo credit: WENN.com

GWAR fans were left in mourning after the band's lead singer Dave Brockie died in March, and now they have some answers. According to the Virginia State Medical Examiner's office, Brockie died of a heroin overdose.

Celebrity deaths of 2014 >>

According to Reuters, the medical examiner said Brockie's death was caused by "acute heroin toxicity and the manner of death is accident."

Brockie died March 23 at his home in Richmond, just after the band had returned from a tour in Japan. After his death, the band's manager told USA Today, "It is with a saddened heart that I confirm my dear friend Dave Brockie, artist, musician, and lead singer of GWAR passed away. My main focus right now is to look after his bandmates and his family. More information regarding his death shall be released as the details are confirmed."

Brockie had never made any secret of his substance abuse problems. Earlier this year, he told an Australian TV station, "For me, being wasted is not being wasted. When I'm sober, that's being wasted, literally."

Hip-hop pioneer DJ E-Z Rock dead at 46 >>

GWAR was founded by Brockie and his bandmates as "Earth's only openly extra-terrestrial rock band." The members, all art students, had met at Virginia Commonwealth University back in the 1980s. Since then, they have come a long way — they have fans all over the world and have been nominated for two Grammys. Back in 2007, the band was described by the Seattle Post-Intelligencer as "the mutant child of early '80s hair music."

Back in 2011, they also lost their guitarist Cory Smoot at the age of 34. Smoot was found dead on the band's tour bus.

The band's manager and other members have not yet commented on Brockie's cause of death.

Polenta tastes similar to grits but tends to be coarser ground. While especially good warm with cheeses mixed into it, polenta can be topped with just about anything, making the possibilities for creating dinner ideas endless.

1. Cheesy Parmesan cheddar polenta recipe

Serves 10

Ingredients:

• 1-3/4 cups dry polenta
• 1-1/2 cups low-fat milk
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 cup very sharp cheddar cheese, grated
• 1/2 cup fresh Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Cherry tomatoes and sliced jalapeños for garnish (optional)

Directions:

1. In a pot over medium-high heat, add the milk, and bring it to a light boil.
2. Stir in the polenta, mix well, and turn the heat down to medium-low.
3. Cover the pot, and cook (stirring occasionally) for 30 minutes or until the polenta is nice and thick and has softened.
4. Once completely cooked, add in the butter, cheeses and garlic powder, and season with salt and pepper. Stir very well to allow the cheese to melt.
5. Best served warm, spoon the polenta into serving bowls, and garnish with fresh cherry tomatoes and sliced jalapeños.

2. Creamy Mexican polenta bowl recipe

Serves 10

Ingredients:

• 1-3/4 cups dry polenta
• 1-1/2 cups low-fat milk
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1-1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the topping

• 2 cups black beans
• 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
• 1 cup halved grape tomatoes
• 1 cup diced red onions
• 1/2 cup sliced green onions
• 3 avocados, pitted and sliced or cubed
• Fresh cilantro as garnish

Directions:

1. In a pot over medium-high heat, add the milk, and bring it to a light boil.
2. Stir in the polenta, mix well, and turn the heat down to medium-low.
3. Cover the pot, and cook (stirring occasionally) for 30 minutes or until the polenta is nice and thick and has softened.
4. Once completely cooked, add in the butter and cheese, and season with salt and pepper. Stir very well to allow the cheese to melt.
5. In a microwave-safe bowl, add the black beans and taco seasoning. Mix well, and heat on high until the beans are hot.
6. Spoon the polenta into serving bowls, and spoon the warm black beans on top.
7. Garnish with tomatoes, onions, avocado slices and fresh cilantro, and serve immediately.

3. Polenta pizza crust recipe

Serves 4-6

Ingredients:

• 2-1/2 cups water
• 1/2 cup low-fat milk
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 cup polenta
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon dried Italian seasoning
• 1 cup pizza sauce
• 1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, diced
• Fresh basil for garnish

Directions:

1. In a pot over medium heat, add the water, milk and butter. Bring to a boil, and stir in the polenta using a wire whisk. Reduce the heat to medium-low, and allow to cook for 25 minutes or until the polenta is very thick.
2. Once the polenta has cooked, remove it from heat, and allow it to cool.
3. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F, and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
4. Pour or spoon the cooled polenta onto the baking sheet. Using your hands, form the polenta into the desired pizza shape.
5. Bake the polenta crust for about 10 minutes, and then remove it from the oven.
6. Top with tomato sauce and mozzarella, and return it to the oven until the cheese has melted.
7. Remove the pizza from the oven, and garnish it with fresh basil.
8. Slice into wedges, and serve.

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Swim safety for babies

Lana Whitehead, expert in baby/child swimming, international speaker, author and founder of SWIMkids USA says that early introduction to water can prevent a child's fear of water developing in the first place. She says, "A child under age 1 is less influenced by negative attitudes about the water. If parents start their child in lessons later, it can be harder to get the child comfortable on his back in the water."

Know before you go: Baby's first swim >>

Whitehead adds that at the age of 3 or 4 months, "the bathtub is a perfect place for the little one to begin developing a healthy relationship with this liquid medium." She notes that the water temperature (ideally between 87 and 93 degrees F) can also make an impact on the success of babies learning to swim.

She reminds parents that all bodies of water are drowning hazards for babies, even toilets, buckets and bathtubs with shallow water. Parents should be within arm's reach of an infant near or in water at all times during this stage.

Swim safety for toddlers and kids

Dr. Linda Quan, vice chair of the American Red Cross Scientific Advisory Council and member of its Aquatic Sub-Council, says, "By 4 years of age, the average child should be able to learn to swim. That means that some children may be ready to learn to swim before four years and some at a later age. Regardless of age, progress in swimming skills depends on the child, how comfortable he or she is in the setting, and the frequency of lessons."

When teaching toddlers and young kids how to swim, The Houstonian Club's Erica Meyer, water safety instructor, swim instructor and lifeguard instructor, says that it is important to have a lot of patience and be emphatic and understanding of your child's fear. She adds, "Make learning skills a game, rather than a task. Make it fun, and know when to push and when to back off — know when there is true anxiety on the part of the youngster."

She also adds that providing a nurturing and positive environment, including congratulating them when they are progressing, and assuring them that they will get better when they are having trouble, is crucial at this stage.

Kristen Beckworth, manager of Texas Children’s Center for Childhood Injury Prevention suggests parents and caregivers of infants, toddlers and young children should take a course in CPR in case of an emergency.

Swim lessons or confidence lessons: How activities influence self-esteem >>

She also suggests designating one or more adults to wear Water Watcher tags to supervise kids at swim parties. Beckworth says, "Many organizations offer free water watcher tags that can be worn for a period of time while actively supervising children in the water. The tag is then passed on to another responsible adult to take their turn. Water watchers actively supervise children and are not distracted by texting, reading, drinking alcohol or socializing. If you do not have an actual Water Watcher tag, use something easily identifiable [such as a] hat, bandana or arm band."

Swim safety for teens

Whitehead also believes that teenagers who don't yet know how to swim should be enrolled in swim lessons versus taught at home. She says, "For over 14 years of age, a professional teacher and not a friend or family member teaching is key."

Dr. Quan says that adolescents need supervision around the water, too. She says, "Just as a teen should explain where he is going to take the car, has rules about driving, wears seatbelts, doesn't drink and drive and has a graduated driving license, swimming and water activities should involve the same thoughtful planning around destination to swim, activities, avoidance of alcohol, use of life jackets if in any vessel/inner tube/raft."

Dr. Quan also adds a final thought regarding helping your child address a fear of water at any age. She says, "Parents model good behaviors and the child will follow. A parent who is learning to swim too is a very good way to help a child to get over his or her fear. A parent who enjoys the water — and enjoys it safely — will model this. Fear of the water is a natural and protective mechanism. A good swim/water program will work with the fearful student in a positive and supportive manner to help the student become comfortable in the water, able to acquire skills, and enjoy the aquatic environment."

More on water safety and summer fun

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Photo credit: Brian To/WENN.com

Jonah Hill really, really wants us to know he's not a homophobic jerk.

The 22 Jump Street star already apologized once on The Howard Stern Show for throwing out the f-word, and last night he made a surprise appearance on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon to continue his mea culpa campaign.

Hill, knowing the success of his new movie and possibly the rest of his career is on the line, carefully explained how the situation unfolded and admitted no matter what, his choice of words was unacceptable.

"This weekend I was out with some friends. There was a paparazzi guy and he was antagonizing me and calling me names, attacking me personally, my family personally. I was genuinely hurt by this and made angry by this," Hill explained. "In response, I wanted to hurt him back and I said the most hurtful word I could think of at that moment. I didn't mean this in the sense of the word. I didn't mean it in a homophobic way.

4 Reasons we forgive Jonah Hill >>

"I think that... that doesn't matter, you know? How you mean things doesn't matter," he continued. "Words have weight in meaning. The word I chose was grotesque. No one deserves to say or hear words like that. I've been supportive to the LGBTQ community my entire life and I completely let the members of that community and everybody else down when I used a word like that this weekend.

"My heart's broken. I'm genuinely deeply sorry to anyone who has ever been affected by that term in their life. I'm sorry and I don't deserve or expect your forgiveness. But what I ask is that if you're at home, if you're watching this and you're a young person especially, if someone says something that hurts you or angers you, use me an example of what not to do. And don't respond with hatred or anger, because you're just adding more ugliness to the world. Again, I'm so sorry."

Watch Jonah Hill apologize

Tell us: Should Jonah Hill's apology be accepted?

Photo credit: Janette Pellegrini/Getty Images Entertainment/Getty images

"Breakthroughs come in all shapes and sizes," New York City's First Lady Chirlane McCray writes in the foreword to Breaking Through: Girls Write Now. "Sometimes, as you’re turning a page in your notebook, you know you’re also turning a page in your life."

My breakthrough happened when I was 14. I turned in an essay to my English teacher. I’d taken liberty with the assignment and made it funny. She handed it back to me with a note that said, "Colleen, I laughed out loud." I started bringing her my poems, and she made notes line by line. I still have copies with her supportive and critical comments on them.

Girls Write Now goes beyond that. It works with high-risk girls in New York City and sets them up with mentors who are writers themselves. Breaking Through: Girls Write Now is an anthology that features pieces from these girls on topics from discovering feminism to standing up for the immigrant experience. They share what inspired the pieces and give a glimpse of their mentor-mentee relationships. The book also provides dozens of writing prompts for use by teachers and other leaders.

And while the program has a positive influence on the girls, the truth is, the program is good for the world. As it stands, women's voices are underrepresented in all spaces, including creative ones. Since 2009, the VIDA Count has been tracking the bias of literary magazines, which overwhelmingly publish more men. Only 13 women have ever won the Nobel Prize in Literature (12 percent of all the Nobel Prizes in Literature). And only 16 percent of "all the directors, executive producers, producers, writers, cinematographers and editors" who worked on the top 250 films in the U.S. in 2013 were women.

Priscilla Guo spent four years with the Girls Write Now program. Her essay in the Breaking Through anthology, "I Have a Voice," describes her experience at her first stand-up poetry performance. "The words began to flow up and out of me — words that stood not only as a testament to their content, but to my continuity to thrive." And thrive she has, winning several awards for her poetry and short stories. But her work was about more than the audience's approval. "I wanted to inspire other girls to be change-makers," she says in her essay.

When my teacher responded to my writing, I knew that I was being heard. That feeling transformed my whole life. Supporting the courageous storytelling of these girls means more women's voices are out in the world, changing it, shaping it and making it more equal. It's an opportunity that would be awfully hard to pass up.

For more information on the book's upcoming release or to donate to the Girls Write Now program, visit GirlsWriteNow.org.>>

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Photo credit: adrian825/iStock/360/Getty Images

Collecting and storing disposable diapers to distribute to low-income families takes a lot of work, but the Diaper Bank of North Carolina has found a way to make the process very successful. Although they've only been open for a year and had an initial goal of distributing 50,000 diapers, they've more than doubled that in 11 months with 139,000 diapers handed out to those who need them. This success story, however, has experienced a baffling setback.

A massive diaper theft

When founder and executive director Michelle Old went into the diaper bank to ready an order for a homeless shelter, she was dismayed to find that they had been burglarized and ransacked — and 13,000 diapers were missing. Diapers of all sizes were taken, but Old says that the bigger sizes are the most painful to see missing. Kids usually stay in the bigger sizes longer and it's hard for them to keep them on hand.

Even worse, she reports that the diapers were stolen from a reserve room that is only known to those who work in the organization. Those in her area have told her that they have noticed the diapers popping up at local diaper sales or being offered on the street for sale, with a going price of $4 per package. Those selling the stolen diapers haven't even bothered to remove the Diaper Bank's identifying stickers from the packages.

The mission marches on

The Diaper Bank of North Carolina is not letting this enormous theft bring them down. Old plans to continue the work and keep getting diapers in the hands of those who need them the most, and a look at their Facebook page shows that community support is already flowing in, with one local business already donating 6,000 diapers to help them make up for the shortage.

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After much speculation, it's finally official: La Toya Jackson has gotten engaged to her longtime love and business partner Jeffré Phillips.

Guilty! Conrad Murray convicted of Michael Jackson's death >>

Phillips decided to propose to his lady while the loved-up pair enjoyed a vacation in Hawaii together last August, People reports. But apparently the "Bad Girl" hit maker was caught off guard by the whole proposal, and "it wasn't a fast yes," she confessed to the mag.

"I was in total shock," Jackson revealed. "We're best friends and we've been business partners forever. It was always professional — no one really crossed those boundaries."

Celebrity Apprentice 4 cast leaked >>

Jackson revealed her happy news during an appearance on Good Morning America on Wednesday, and the TV personality recalled the romantic way in which her man proposed to her. It all took place on the balcony of their hotel, where Phillips surprised her with a meal and a massive engagement ring that had been hiding in the dessert tray. Awww!

The star may have been on TV to promote her new reality show Life With La Toya — which will be aired on the Oprah Winfrey Network — but it was her giant 17.5-carat diamond bauble that stole the show.

Haylie Duff talks love: Her engagement and Hilary's divorce >>

"Yes, I am. I'm engaged. And I'm excited about it. Yes, I'm very much engaged… and it's wonderful." Jackson told the show's host Abbie Boudreau.

We're so happy for this pair, and want to know when we can expect to see Jackson walk down the aisle.

Apparently there's no wedding date set yet, because Jackson still has a lot of wedding planning to do to ensure her big day is extra special.

Les Mis' Eddie Redmayne engaged to Hannah Bagshawe >>

Photo credit: Judy Eddy/WENN.com

Most moms don't enjoy the thought of their children leaving home, but apparently Kardashian momager Kris Jenner had an extra-hard time with it.

Billboard Music Awards: Kendall Jenner is "literally the worst reader" >>

Kendall Jenner has recently turned 18 and she's been excited to fly the coop and get a house of her own, but Kris has apparently battled to come to terms with the fact that her daughter was leaving their Calabasas family home.

The Jenner sisters appeared on Live With Kelly and Michael on Tuesday to promote their new book Rebels: City of Indra: The Story of Lex and Livia, but everyone really wanted to know more about Kris crying herself to sleep at night after Kendall moved out.

Jenner sisters' City of Indra is better than you're expecting >>

The model has recently bought herself a swanky two-bedroom condo in an upmarket building in Los Angeles, California, and she revealed that her mom was desperate to be a part of her moving process.

"When it actually happened — last week I moved in — and she literally did everything, like helped moving me in and stuff and she's like, 'I got it. I got it,'" Kendall revealed, adding, "And I was like, 'But this is my first place, I want to be able to do it.'"

Kendall Jenner buys super-expensive condo >>

Regardless of what the momager may have wanted, Jenner was adamant that she was going to do things her way.

"I picked out all my stuff, but she helped basically to get it all in there," she said. "I offered to help, but she wouldn't let me," she revealed.

Poor Kris. At least she still has 16-year-old Kylie to hang on to.

1. Sarah Hyland

Photo credit: WENN.com

Modern Family star Sarah Hyland was a vision of metallic perfection in a loose-fitting, sparkling short-sleeve gold dress that hit just below the knees.

Did you know? Guess it's true that stylish ladies travel in packs. Sarah is close friends with another one of our style idols, Taylor Swift.

2. Taylor Schilling

Photo credit: Daniel Deme/WENN.com

Orange may be the new black on her hit TV series, but Taylor Schilling looks even more sexy in a plunging, sparkly silver midi gown paired with a matching clutch and pointy pumps.

Did you know? Before starting Orange is the New Black, Taylor was lucky enough to star in The Lucky One with hottie Zac Efron.

3. Emma Willis

Photo credit: WENN.com

Before last night, we'd never heard of Emma Willis, but the stunning dress she wore on the red carpet sure changed that. The full yellow skirt, the creative colorblocking and the illusion scalloped detail combined to create a purely perfect garment.

Did you know? Emma is a British television presenter and former model.

4. Rochelle Humes

Photo credit: Lia Toby/WENN.com

If you watched the E! reality series about British band The Saturdays, you likely recognize Rochelle Humes. The stylish singer hit the Glamour Women of the Year Awards in a curve-hugging orange bustier dress with a gold metallic belt and matching sandals last night.

Did you know? Singing runs in the family. Rochelle's hot hubby Marvin was a member of British boy band JLS.

5. Mollie King

Photo credit: WENN.com

Rochelle's fellow member of The Saturdays, Mollie King, accompanied her gal pal to the ceremony and turned heads on the red carpet in a white three-quarter sleeve minidress and complementary beige sandals.

Did you know? Mollie blogs for the British version of InStyle.

6. Alexa Chung

Photo credit: WENN.com

Alexa Chung never ceases to amaze us with her evolving style. The trendsetter, who recently announced a partnership with Nails Inc., managed to look flirty and sexy last night in her one-of-a-kind LBD featuring a full skirt and lacy, boxy neckline.

Did you know? Alexa took home the Glamour Women of the Year Entrepreneur Award at last night's ceremony.

7. Hayley Atwell

Photo credit: WENN.com

Who knew covering up could look so sexy? Hayley Atwell oozed sex appeal in her patterned black long-sleeve gown and pretty slicked back 'do. A pretty pink pout added an extra touch of feminine sass.

Did you know? Hayley Atwell plays Peggy Carter in the Captain America series.

8. Lorraine Kelly

Photo credit: Karwai Tang/WireImage/Getty Images

The 54-year-old gave the younger crew a run for their money at last night's ceremony in her sophisticated yet fashion-forward white top and pretty blue floral print midi skirt combo.

Did you know? Lorraine is a well-known Scottish television presenter, journalist and actress.

9. Jenna Coleman

Photo credit: WENN.com

Pretty prints were huge on the red carpet last night, and no one did the trend justice better than Jenna Coleman in her loose strapless gown. The thing that really pulled this look together? Her enviable, touchable waves.

Did you know? Jenna won the UK TV Actress of the Year award last night.

10. Laura Haddock

Photo credit: Karwai Tang/WireImage/Getty Images

Laura epitomized easy, breezy summer style in a boho-chic cream maxi dress featuring a plunging back. No-fuss sandals, beachy waves and a chic hair accessory pulled her approachable look together in the best of ways.

Photo credit: Karwai Tang/WireImage/Getty Images

Did you know? Recognize Laura? That's because she gained loads of attention for her role in Captain America: The First Avenger.

11. Emily VanCamp

Photo credit: WENN.com

It takes a gutsy gal to attempt a kimono-style dress, but Emily VanCamp seemed up for the challenge. And we're glad she was, because she totally pulled off this pretty patterned number. So chic.

Did you know? Before starring in ABC's hit Revenge, Emily won us over in her role in the WB series Everwood.

12. Helen Mirren

Photo credit: Daniel Deme/WENN.com

Helen Mirren can do no wrong. Seriously, the dame is so chic and down to earth, it seems she can pull off any style, even this daring LWD with loads of detailing and edgy black booties.

Did you know? Helen appeared in an episode of Glee in 2012.

More celebrity style

Shailene Woodley's pretty, unique style
Elle Fanning: Wise and stylish beyond her 16 years
Emma Watson's The Amazing Spider-Man 2 style

Photo credit: Showtime

With all the slashing and dicing, paired with witty humor and smart drama, Penny Dreadful has found a clever and unique way to fill the Dexter void in our lives. And it looks like Showtime doesn't have any plans to stray away from the horror story lines since the network has ordered a second season of the show.

"I think because it's a genre show, it has done incredibly well in all the new ways you can watch, beyond any show we'd had before," said Showtime Networks president David Nevins.

Penny Dreadful review: A unique but twisted premiere >>

Penny Dreadful weaves together classic horror tales including Dracula, Frankenstein and Dorian Gray to create a genre show that is surprisingly fresh and well-executed. It stars Eva Green, Josh Hartnett and Timothy Dalton.

"The show has been an interesting combination of genre credibility — it is simultaneously a gorgeous historical costume drama and a really scary, twisted horror show," Nevins said. "The question was, could we do a genre show that made sense on Showtime that had adult appeal and the psychological sophistication you expect from one of our premium dramas, but still satisfies drama audiences."

We'd say the show has done just that.

Josh Hartnett disappeared from Hollywood to live a normal life >>

According to The Hollywood Reporter, the Penny Dreadful premiere raked in the youngest-skewed audience it's seen since Dexter. Thanks in large part to the multiple viewing formats now available today and the massive sneak-peek audience Penny Dreadful received before the premiere, the ratings for the show so far have been impressive.

Season 2 is schedule to air in 2015 with a 10-episode run. That's two episodes more than Season 1. Show writer John Logan, who is best known for penning James Bond, is said to already be busy writing away on Season 2 of Penny Dreadful.

What have you thought of Penny Dreadful so far? Are you excited the show will return for Season 2?

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Jon Stewart and his Daily Show correspondents, both past and present (and probably future), have shown they can affect change, and John Oliver appears to be the latest. Oliver, who has filled Stewart's shoes in the past, now has his own show on HBO, Last Week Tonight, and helped shut down a government agency website this week after making a passionate plea.

Jon Stewart names least favorite The Daily Show guest ever >>

Oliver did a segment about net neutrality, a term many have heard of, but not as many understand. The idea of net neutrality, which the Federal Communications Commission is currently considering, involves whether the internet should be on a "level playing field." Meaning that, depending on how the FCC rules, certain companies could soon have to pay to get content to you more quickly. The FCC is currently considering a proposal that wouldn't allow internet companies to slow down content to their customers, but could allow a "fast lane" for internet companies to charge more for access to faster internet.

For example, Netflix would have to pay a premium to get their service to their customers quickly. It would in theory stop start-ups who can't afford to pay that fee from launching their competition to businesses like Netflix.

Oliver not only spoke about the issue, but ranted about it for a 13 full minutes, pleading to his audience, "For once in your lives, focus your indiscriminate rage in a useful direction. Seize your moment, my lovely trolls!"

Stephen Colbert takes David Letterman's spot on Late Show >>

The host's plea came at the right time — the FCC just opened its first comment period on net neutrality. And comment they did. The agency said they have received more than 45,000 comments on the issue since May 15. They also received more than 300,000 emails. The FCC sent out a tweet on Monday, June 3, saying their servers had gone down, and it seems likely it's because of Oliver's segment.

We’ve been experiencing technical difficulties with our comment system due to heavy traffic. We’re working to resolve these issues quickly.

— The FCC (@FCC) June 2, 2014

"What's being proposed is so egregious that activists and corporations have been forced onto the same side," Oliver explained. "And you might wonder, if everyone is against this, how is it even possibly happening? The guy who used to run with the cable industry's lobbying arm is now tasked with the agency tasked with regulating it. That is the equivalent of needing a babysitter and hiring a dingo."

The initial commenting period will continue through June 27.

Watch Oliver's segment on net neutrality here

Photo credit: Tim Mosenfelder/WireImage/Getty Images, Tommy Clark/Moment/Getty Images

These days you can find almost any cat video you'd like on the internet. Cats eating crazy food? Check. Cats in costume looking adorable? Check check. Cats twerking like bosses? Wait, what?

Recently, Salaheddine Boubegrate of Morocco caught his kitten busting a move and uploaded it to YouTube. The 50-second clip shows his black-and-white kitty twerking it out. That's right, we have our first cat-twerking internet video. Add it to the ever-expanding internet cat-video archives.

More crazy cats

10 Videos even cat haters will love
19 Reasons we love cats
100 Unique pet names for your new cat

Because what better way to get you into the warm, festive mood than with some spicy and easy pepper recipes? These poblano chilies are incredibly flavorful on their own, but we made them even tastier by stuffing them with cheese, chicken and our favorite spices. Plus, you get an incredibly delicious char and smoky taste from grilling them. Seriously, no BBQ is complete this summer without these.

1. Mexican quinoa-and-corn-stuffed peppers recipe

Serves 4

Ingredients:

• 2 medium-size chili or poblano peppers
• 1/2 cup quinoa
• 1 cup water
• 1/2 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 medium red onion, diced
• 1/2 a jalapeño pepper, diced and seeded
• 3 tablespoons canned corn
• 1/2 cup habanero (or spicy cheddar) cheese, shredded
• 2 tablespoons chipotle salsa
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped

Directions: 

2. Moroccan chicken-stuffed peppers recipe

Serves 4

Ingredients:

• 4 medium chili or poblano peppers
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 1 (6 ounce) boneless, skinless chicken breast
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 medium zucchini, diced
• 1 large carrot, diced
• 2-3 tablespoons green spicy harissa sauce
• 1/4 cup spicy baked chickpeas
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Directions:

1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Spray with nonstick cooking spray. Place the peppers on the grill, cover the grill, and cook until charred on all sides, about 6 minutes each side. Let the peppers cool slightly, and then peel off and discard the top layer of each.
2. Slice the peppers down the middle, scoop out and discard the seeds, and set the peppers aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic, zucchini and carrot, and cook until slightly softened, about 4 minutes.
4. Chop the chicken into bite-size pieces, and place them into the skillet with the vegetables. Cook on medium-low heat until browned, about 8 minutes. Mix in the green harissa, salt and pepper.
5. Fill each pepper with the chicken-harissa mixture, garnish each with 1 tablespoon of chickpeas and cilantro, and serve.

3. Goat cheese, onion and mushroom-stuffed peppers recipe

Serves 4

Ingredients:

• 6 medium to large poblano peppers
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1/2 a medium white onion, diced
• 6 ounces white mushrooms, diced
• 1-1/2 garlic cloves, minced
• 7 ounces cream cheese, cut into cubes
• 4 ounces soft goat cheese
• 1 tablespoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish

Directions:

1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Spray with nonstick cooking spray. Place the peppers on the grill, cover the grill, and cook until charred on all sides, about 6 minutes each side. Let the peppers cool slightly, and then peel off and discard the top layer of each. Slice the peppers in half, and remove the seeds.
2. In a large skillet, heat the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and cook until slightly translucent, about 2 to 3 minutes. Add the mushrooms, and cook until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat, and stir in the cream cheese, salt and pepper. Mix until the cheese is fully melted into the mushrooms and onions.
3. Stuff the cheese-and-mushroom mixture into the center of each pepper. Top the peppers with goat cheese, dried basil, salt and pepper.
4. Preheat the broiler, and broil the peppers until the cheese is melted and slightly browned, about 2 to 3 minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley.

More grilled vegetable recipes

Meatless Monday: Grilled vegetables with lemon-based aoli
Grilled vegetables with mozzarella, pine nuts and mint
Grilled vegetable tostadas with goat cheese

Photo credit: Daniel Tanner/WENN.com

After being humiliated by Juan Pablo Galavis on the last Bachelor when he rudely rejected her during the finale, Clare Crawley is back on the new Bachelor in Paradise show this summer.

Bachelor Pad may be over, but that hasn't stopped the Bachelor franchise from coming up with a new show to get former contestants back in the spotlight. Several Bachelor and Bachelorette alums, including Crawley, will return to continue the drama and chaos in a whole new series.

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This time, a group of familiar guys and girls will be shipped off to a paradise location to try to find love again. But, as all fans know, to ensure that the ever-after happens, there is going to be lots of backstabbing, crying and drama for all to witness.

Not one to shy away from turmoil, Crawley should fit right in with the new show and get into plenty of altercations with the other contestants. Viewers may recall how she confronted her season's winner, Nikki Ferrell, accusing her of being fake and not good for Galavis.

Best quotes on Juan Pablo from The Bachelor's Chris Harrison >>

Of course, her biggest scene came with Galavis himself, after he flat-out told her she wasn't the one for him when she believed wholeheartedly he was going to propose. Crawley angrily told him he was an awful man and she would not want her children to have a father like him.

In addition to the drama Crawley will bring to the show, fans will also get to relive the shenanigans of past contestants such as fellow Galavis alums AshLee Frazier and Danielle McBride. Also returning are Michelle Kujawa from Jake Pavelka's season, and Ben Scott from Desiree Hartsock's season.

Bachelor in Paradise will premiere Monday, Aug. 4 at 8/7c.