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The sad truth is that rape kits tell us nothing about consent

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Rape is a unique crime. In the aftermath, there is nothing a victim can do to regain what they've lost and very little they can do to get justice for the crime committed against them. The one thing they can do, however, is have a rape kit done to collect all the evidence while it's still fresh. But there's one major problem: Thousands of untested rape kits are sitting in police stations all over the United States. Each kit takes four to six hours to complete, and the process is so excruciating that each one represents an extreme act of bravery by each victim. Yet despite the sacrifice made in completing them and the fact that the kits can be one of the most powerful pieces of evidence used in rape trials, an embarrassing number never even get processed.

What gives? This failure is likely a combination of funding (it can cost up to $1,000 to process one kit) and societal apathy about rape. But many people are working to reduce this problem, and a pair of students has come up with a new invention to help police process evidence of rape more quickly. Bella Okiddy and Richard Park have made a cotton swab that immediately changes color when exposed to semen. They compare the swab to a pregnancy test and say they hope it will help police get evidence and victims get justice a lot faster. And a lot of people seem to agree with them — the pair launched a company called Technologies Against Assault with nearly $26,000 from Indiegogo and a matching $25,000 from a Brown postgrad fellowship.

Call me a cynic, but I have serious doubts as to how merely acknowledging the presence of semen will help in any real, practical way. As a survivor of sexual assault myself — and one who did take my attacker to court — I understand deeply the need for real, documented evidence. Unfortunately in the majority of rape cases, the main defense of the perpetrator is that the sex was consensual, not that it didn't happen.

Too many cases devolve into a sordid back-and-forth of "he said, she said," and a color-changing semen swab wouldn't do anything to change that. I know it wouldn't have made a difference in my situation. I won my case only because there were so many victims with identical stories that we were able to show a pattern; any one of us alone likely wouldn't have gotten a conviction despite the fact that there was plenty of semen. In addition, the swab wouldn't have helped in the now-infamous Stanford rape case against Brock Turner, as he claimed his victim was a willing participant even though two other men caught him in the act and saw she was unconscious. Not to mention the new swab would be of no use if a condom was used.

At best, it seems like this invention would be helpful in only a minority of cases, and at worst, it seems like a way to discount victims' testimonies — "Oh look, the swab didn't change color! Guess you weren't raped after all!"

More: What it's like going to the gynecologist after you've been raped

I know this isn't the intent of the inventors. And doing something is always better than doing nothing. But this seems like just one more example of focusing money and resources on the wrong aspects when it comes to rape prevention and prosecution. We women have been given so much advice (don't drink, ever!) and so many techniques (kick 'em in the balls!) and even fancy gadgets like rape whistles and alarm necklaces to ward off the unthinkable. And yet we still get raped. So it's time we start really thinking about the unthinkable and recognize that the source of rape isn't the victim's failure to prevent it, but the perpetrator's failure to not rape people.

More: Teen fights back after her rape goes viral

Sadly we live in a world where rape is a reality, and so I will never fault people or criticize them for looking for bigger, better ways to prevent and treat rape. Women need to protect themselves even if we shouldn't have to. But at the same time, I will never stop hoping for more people to come up with ways to help that don't add more burden on the victim and instead place the onus back on the one committing the heinous crime in the first place. Where's the crowdfunding campaign for that?


1 margarita tweak that will transport you to a summer garden party

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Summer means warm weather, and warm weather means tequila. Monarch Rooftop Lounge master mixologist Genese DeBeaux had summer in mind when she created her Monarch Margarita. She makes her recipe special by muddling cucumbers and rosemary simple syrup to give it an herbal, summery taste. But the tweak we love the best is how she rims the glass with celery salt and sugar.

Try it! Whip up this baby, and imagine yourself sipping on the sandy beaches of your tropical island of choice.

More: 12 simple syrup recipes for cocktails that will knock your socks off

Monarch Margarita recipe

Serves 1

Ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon celery salt
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 2 cucumber slices
  • 1 ounce silver tequila
  • 1/2 ounce Cointreau
  • 1/2 ounce lime juice
  • 1/2 ounce rosemary-infused simple syrup

Directions:

  1. On a small plate, combine the celery salt and sugar. Rim the glass with the celery salt and sugar.
  2. In a mixer, muddle the cucumbers in tequila.
  3. Add the Cointreau, lime juice and simple syrup. Shake, and strain into the rimmed glass.

Before you go, check out our slideshow below.

27 magical margaritas guaranteed to make any fiesta more fun
Image: Brandi Bidot/SheKnows

SVU's great because Olivia Benson tirelessly defends rape victims

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Rape and sexual assault has become a topic of conversation as of late, but on NBC’s Law & Order: SVU, it’s been front and center every week for almost 18 years. In its 17 seasons, SVU has taken on child abuse, murder, incest, rape, assault, police corruption and many ripped-from-the-headlines stories every week; and the show was recently renewed for its 18th season. Cast members have come and gone and storylines have been recycled, and yet the show continues to get better and better. The reason: Olivia Benson’s unwavering support of victims of assault.

Olivia Benson, as played by Mariska Hargitay, has never doubted an alleged victim of sexual assault. Even when her (mostly male) co-workers doubted a victim, Olivia never wavered. Uncompromising and unwilling to be a pawn in a patriarchal justice system, Benson can always be counted on to champion survivors of sexual abuse that come her way. She never blames the victim, even when others might. In the episode "Pornstar's Requiem," Benson investigates the rape of a college student, who has also worked as a porn star. Her aggressors defend themselves by saying that they were simply re-creating a video the woman had starred in, the implication being that because she had performed sexual acts on tape, she had been asking for it. And through it all, Benson stands by the victim, refuting the notion that consent is transferable just because of a woman's profession. This is just one instance in which Olivia Benson and SVU have refused to accept the "she was asking for it" narrative.

More: Law & Order: SVU's Olivia Benson has been the strongest woman on TV for 17 years

On SVU, Olivia Benson doesn't just stand by victims, she also encourages them to file charges. Victims of sexual assault are constantly dissuaded from pressing charges, be it from counselors on college campuses or police. And when they do press charges, the road to justice can be long and arduous. Just this week, outrage sparked over the conviction of Brock Allen Turner, who was sentenced to a mere six months in jail after being found guilty on three counts of sexual assault. This sentencing perpetuates the belief that (white) men who commit sexual assault deserve leniency, while women who suffer sexual assault don’t deserve to be heard. But on SVU, Olivia Benson strives every week to ensure that any and all sexual assault victims get justice. That said, SVU takes place in the modern world, where rape and assault victims are often failed by the court system.

More: Ranking the many loves of Law & Order: SVU's Olivia Benson

Law & Order: SVU might be a law procedural, but writers are careful to ensure that the law is not made to be synonymous with justice. In fact, in her fierce defense of survivors of sexual assault, Benson doesn’t always follow the letter of the law. Despite the fact that she operates as part of "the system," she isn't afraid to bend the rules when she finds them particularly unfair. In Season 14's "Legitimate Rape," for example, Benson helped a rape victim escape the country with her child after her rapist, the biological father, was awarded visitation rights while serving a prison sentence for his crimes. Through Benson's occasional rule breaking, SVU is able to admit that the system isn't always fair, and that laws regarding sexual assault and rape have a long way to go before justice can truly be done.

More: SVU fans, breathe easy — Mariska Hargitay is certain Benson isn't an alcoholic

By continuing to focus on stories of sexual violence against women season after season, Law & Order: SVU combats the widespread belief that accusers of assault are to be doubted first, believed later.

Before you go, check out our slideshow below!

Mariska Hargitay through the years
Image: NBC

Tila Tequila reactivated her Twitter just to post more racist statements

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Tila Tequila is in hot water for yet another racist rant, and it's pretty apparent the reality star just DGAF.

Tequila, who was kicked out of the Celebrity Big Brother house for her remarks supporting Hitler and has posed for photoshoots wearing so-called sexy Nazi costumes, has now taken aim at illegal immigrants in a new Instagram post.

Tila Tequila illegal immigrants

Tila Tequila illegal immigrants

More: Tila Tequila fans question her sanity after odd rant on social media

The irony was not lost on her followers, who were quick to point out that Tequila — real name Thien Thanh Thi Nguyen, is an immigrant herself.

"This is what happens when you let a dumb hoe sit in front of the TV when Donald trump is on [sic]," wrote hannahelizabethms.

"You're a joke...trump will boot YOUR ass back [sic]," wrote nrami1527.

"You immigrated to the US from Singapore. I wouldn't exactly be talking about 'illegals' if I were you, Tila," wrote abelsboo.

"Please learn how to blend your eyeshadow before you start hunting down these so called ‘immigrants' like yourself," wrote aadrieee_27.

"Lol when you're an immigrant from Singapore and support a Pres. Cand. who's all about white supremacy #youllgetsentbacktoo [sic]," wrote AislinJB.

"Well at least us Mexicans can drive. Bitch put your seatbelt on before you really do kill someone," wrote thisangelfan.

Regardless of the outcry, Tequila is unrepentant. Here is her "official apology":

Tila Tequila fake apology

Tila Tequila fake apology

More: Tila Tequila begs fans for a huge favor, indicating she's broke

She also let loose a series of tweets that show she is just as unhinged as ever.

Tila Tequila racist tweets

Tila Tequila racist tweets

Twitter has already banned Azealia Banks for her racist rants — isn't it time they get on Tequila, too?

Before you go, check out our slideshow below.

tila tequila slideshow
Image: FayesVision/WENN.com

Jason Aldean reveals babies are definitely in his future

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First comes love, then comes marriage, but for Jason Aldean and Brittany Kerr, it stops there. At least for now. The newlyweds have enjoyed their married life so much that although they do want kids in the future, they’re fine putting it off for a little while.

Aldean recently opened up about expanding his family with more kids, saying that he and Kerr are definitely planning for it. He said, "We would love to. We kind of just wanted our time to enjoy being married and enjoy that first. It's definitely something that we've talked about."

More: Jason Aldean gets engaged to former mistress

One of their reservations is losing the fun life they’ve gotten used to living. Aldean mentioned that, "Once you have a kid, bring a baby in it, life as you know it changes drastically, for the better. It definitely changes. We're just enjoying the newlywed life and being married and having fun with it right now."

We can all agree that that’s just code for they’re happy just practicing for now, right?

More: Jason Aldean says people need to get over cheating scandal

It’s understandable that Aldean isn’t in any rush — he’s already got two daughters from his previous marriage. He loves being a dad to them, but knows that being on the road all the time makes those relationships harder. It’s probably why he brings Kerr on tour with him most of the time.

He said that may be the key to their first year of marriage being so fun. He said, "It's actually been great. It's fun, she travels with me, she's out on the road with me most of the time. It's cool. It's nice to have her out there and not have to have that separation. I think it makes it easier to be on the road, and easier on the relationship."

More: Jason Aldean's kids want nothing to do with Brittany Kerr

Kerr definitely has time to spare as well. At 28, she’s got plenty of time to enjoy the married life before she has to pay attention to the biological clock. The couple may as well live it up while they have the chance.

Growing Up McGhee's premiere just gave me a bad case of anxiety

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Growing Up McGhee premiered tonight on UPtv, and more than anything, it just made me thankful I don't have babies... yet.

More: Six Little McGhees: Falling in love times eight

While Ro and Mia McGhee seem like incredible parents, raising six children — all the same age — seems like the most stressful responsibility in the world. Even watching the premiere tonight was enough to make my head spin. Between the talk of constant noise to the description of the family's routine in order to keep things organized, I have officially decided that I'm waiting to have babies as long as humanly (or womanly, as the case may be) possible. No babies. No. Babies. And I sure as hell don't want six of them.

Whereas the Bates family manages 19 children with help from the older children looking after the younger ones, the McGhees don't have that luxury. They've got six 5-year-olds and the result is chaos no matter how on-point the parents are.

I watch the Bates family and think, "Oh, this actually doesn't seem so bad." I watch the McGhees and my heart starts pounding and I break out in a cold sweat.

I'll be interested to see how the rest of Season 1 unfolds because it's hard to imagine how the show plans on mixing things up. When every day with this family has to be so regimented in order to accommodate raising six kids at once, creativity for a show seems like it will be, admittedly, limited.

More: Kate Gosselin's kids want TLC to consider a Kate Plus 8 name change

I 100 percent understand why this family would be interested in reality television. The freedom that income would provide has to be such a relief. After all, Mia and Ro started their own carpet cleaning business when their kids were born just so they could have the flexibility to raise them.

What this family really needs is a nanny. Or two. Grandma just isn't enough of a permanent babysitter to give these people some sanity. Plus, what are they going to do when the kids get older? Right now the boys are sharing a room. Can you imagine four teenagers sharing a room?

More: Why I fell in love with the Bates family in Bringing Up Bates Season 3

Clearly I'm just all sorts of stressed out after this show. Perhaps that's why Growing Up McGhee will be a success. It's like watching that sawing in half magic trick and realizing at the end the magician isn't dead and is still in one piece. I'm still stumbling over how the McGhees make it work, but make it work they do. Bravo, bravo.

Was the premiere of Growing Up McGhee enough to get you hooked on the show?

Billy Ray Cyrus made his CMT Awards debut as a completely different person

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Let me be clear here — I've been a fan of Billy Ray Cyrus since I was a little girl dancing in my driveway as "Achy Breaky Heart" blared out of the boom box I stole from my older brother. I've never even minded the man's mullet.

More: 22 outfits you missed on the CMT Awards red carpet

But when Cyrus made his debut at the CMT Music Awards tonight, I honestly wasn't even sure who I was looking at. Is that Ronnie Dunn circa 1994? Al Borland from Home Improvement? The love child of Liza Minelli and Joe Dirt?

He just looks... different. Undeniably so, according to the Twitterverse.

CMT: Billy Ray 1

CMT: Billy Ray 1

CMT: Billy Ray 2

CMT: Billy Ray 2

CMT: Billy Ray 3

CMT: Billy Ray 3

Cyrus has been in the business for quite a while and he hasn't had a steady stream of gigs lately, so to speak, so it isn't totally crazy to think he has simply evolved his appearance over time or is trying out a new style.

However, perhaps this makeover is part of some identity branding for his new comedy series on CMT, Still the King, which premieres this Sunday.

Let's roll with that assumption, eh? Because, to be honest, the alternative — that this new look is just his thing — is a puzzling thought. Besides, the premise of the show is that Cyrus' character, "Burnin'" Vernon Brown, is a washed-up country singer turned Elvis impersonator.

OK, whew, it's all starting to make sense now. This new look may just very well be the product of some clever marketing or, heck, maybe Cyrus is just trying to stay in character. Perhaps that carefully sculpted coif is too complicated to redo every episode so he just decided to keep rockin' it.

More: 10 things you didn't know about country singer Chris Stapleton (VIDEO)

In a recent interview with the Washington Post, Cyrus explained he came up with the character a few years ago following the end of Hannah Montana. "I was on tour playing music down in the South, and I was thinking of reinventing again... do I want to do that?" he said. "Or just be a musician and not reinvent in that direction?"

Then, while walking his dog in Louisiana one day, he came across a dilapidated Pentecostal church and experienced his eureka moment, saying, "It just clicked. There's your reinvention right there — a dysfunctional Elvis impersonator who lies his way into that church as their preacher."

Thus, Cyrus' new look at the CMT Music Awards. But, uh, still. What are your thoughts on Cyrus' bold new style?

CMT: Billy Ray 4

CMT: Billy Ray 4

More: 7 female empowering moments everyone talked about at last year's CMT Awards

Check out our slideshow before you go:

CMT awards red carpet
Image: Getty

Someone tell the CMT Awards that country female artists aren't just 'hot'

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More: 6 celebrities Carrie Underwood and Brad Paisley ripped to shreds during the CMAs

If you're a regular consumer of award shows, there are some things you know to look for: the sappy acceptance speech, thanking God, mothers, spouses, pets and managers. The crying. The music, which swirls to a pitch as the winner ascends the stage. The awkwardness of the host(s) as they try to make two hours pass seamlessly. Jokes about current events that may or may not land well. The 2016 CMTAwards featured all of these elements, including an astounding amount of sexism.

Like, crazy sexism. From cohost J.J. Watt putting a random girl in the audience on his shoulders ("What? She couldn't see the stage? I'm just being a gentleman! You're not married too, are ya?"), to the constant references to how beautiful the women in the audience and on the stage are, to yet another Watt comment about how he'd like to get with Pitbull's backup dancers, the sexist comments and actions were constant throughout the show. It made the watching experience excruciating.

More: Blake Shelton and Gwen Stefani might be attending the CMAs together

How do you compile a group of insanely talented women, including Carrie Underwood and Kelsea Ballerini, and never once reference that talent? The adjective most used to describe the female artists at this year's CMTs was "hot." To be fair, Erin Andrews did refer to Luke Bryan as "chiseled" and apparently Dierks Bentley has a song called "It's Different for Girls" that essentializes both men and women in terrible ways, so the problem of gender isn't exactly limited. Still, though, it was shocking to see and hear how women were treated on the show, especially since country music has, in many ways, committed to overthrowing the stereotypes it's spent years perpetuating about women. It must have been awful to be a woman in that audience (unless you're Carrie Underwood, who I'm sure is entirely sick of this junk by now and is plotting its demise in her giant mansion, with the help of Miranda Lambert).

This was the first time I've ever watched the CMT Awards, but yikes. What a throwback to a time we would all like to believe doesn't exist anymore. It's sad to be wrong and it's even sadder to have that wrongness continually revived for two consecutive hours on TV. Do better, CMTs.

What did you think of the CMT Awards? Were you also shocked by the sexism? Tell us in the comments!

Check out our slideshow before you go:

CMT awards red carpet
Image: Getty

Chewbacca Mom won the CMTs before the first award was even given

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If we're really being honest, the 2016 CMT Music Awards were a bit of a hot mess. From outright sexism to awkward innuendo to comically puzzling performances, it just kind of missed the mark. But in at least one respect, the show hit it out of the park. And by that, we're clearly talking about the cameo from the viral internet sensation known as Chewbacca Mom.

More: 2016 CMT Awards winners: Best excerpts from the winners' speeches

Of course, unless you've been living under a rock and/or don't have access to the internet, by now you know that Chewbacca Mom's real name is Candace Payne.

The mother slash super Star Wars fan shot to stardom when she posted a video online of herself laughing hysterically while trying on a Chewbacca mask she picked up from Kohl's. Sure, the Wookiee sounds the mask made were fun, but nothing could top her infectious giggling as she marveled over her new toy.

To date, her original video has been shared nearly three-and-a-half million times, and for good reason — it's hilarious. And heartwarming. It's impossible not to feel all the warm and fuzzies when you're watching it.

More: Chewbacca Mom is raking in the cash, but what about people who need it?

So, yes, Chewbacca Mom was a welcome distraction when she popped up early in the CMT Music Awards. As hosts J.J. Watt and Erin Andrews talked about Watt placing a teammate and his family in the crowd to laugh at all his jokes, the familiar sounds of Chewbacca Mom's unmistakable laughter rang out.

Chewbacca Mom at CMT Awards

Chewbacca Mom at CMT Awards

Country music's top artists may have taken home the actual trophies tonight, but if you ask us, Chewbacca Mom won the whole damn show.

As always, Payne's carefree spirit was captivating. Plus, it was nice to see the sweet 37-year-old stay-at-home mom enjoying one of country music's hottest nights. She's gotten quite a bit of swag since her Chewbacca vid first broke the internet and it's refreshing to see someone so down to earth get a taste of the proverbial high life.

More: 8 things about country hottie Cole Swindell you probably didn't know

In fact, while we're on the subject, would it be totally off-base to suggest they let her host the show next year? I can almost guarantee she would slay it. Or, at the very least, do just as good of a job as Erin Andrews and J.J. Watt did this year. If she happened to break out the Chewbacca mask from time to time and give into those Wookiee giggles during her hosting duties, well by god, so be it.

Check out our slideshow before you go:

CMT awards red carpet
Image: Getty

I'm sold: A Stark is going to prevail in the GoT season finale

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First of all, heed this warning if you want to be surprised for the Game of Thrones Season 6 finale.

Image: HBO

More: Scorned ex-GF's Game of Thrones revenge plot is worthy of an Emmy

Guys, thank the old gods and the new because we officially have the titles for the last two episodes of Season 6 of Game of Thrones. You know what that means? It means that we have some random leaked information to speculate wildly about.

So, according to Entertainment Weekly, the final titles for the last two episodes this season are "The Battle of The Bastards" and "The Winds of Winter." Episode 9 is "The Battle of The Bastards" and it is probably the most obvious of the two titles. This will most definitely be the episode where Ramsay Bolton and Jon Snow finally cross paths. This has been a highly anticipated event and Game of Thrones has a history of using Episode 9 to unleash seriously crazy plot twists or to showcase impressively brutal and elaborate battles. Episode 9 events have included Ned's beheading, the Battle of Blackwater, the Red Wedding, the Battle of Castle Black and Dany's ride on Drogon. So, we are most certainly in for a treat, or at the very least some blood and/or guts.

More: Who needs dragons when GoT's Daenerys is such a badass all on her own?

The finale is a little more open to interpretation. The title, "The Winds of Winter," is an obvious nod to the upcoming book that George R.R. Martin is taking his sweet time on, but beyond that is really just an ol' pile of clues for us to decipher. The "winter" part of the title makes me think that we are going to be focusing pretty heavily on some Starks because we all know their house mantra is "Winter is coming" and they hail from the cold-ass north and such. Well, what if it's a Stark who we have already said goodbye to?

Hear me out.

So, I think most Game of Thrones fans have at least heard the name Lady Stoneheart. If you haven't, I will sum it up briefly for you. Basically, Catelyn Stark comes back to life in the book,A Storm of Swords. She is brought back by Beric Dondarrion and is a mute killing machine who is hellbent on destroying anyone who had a hand in the death/suffering of her family. Gnarly to the extreme, right? Well, fans have been waiting for this particular book plot to happen, and so far, no dice. This is why I believe that the finale is where we will finally catch a glimpse of Lady Stoneheart. The winds of winter will bring a cold, angry Stark mama who is made for vengeance.

More: Game of Thrones' Thoros of Myr is returning, but will Lady Stoneheart show up?

Let's wish on every star that we finally get to see this long-awaited story line play out in this season's finale. I am ready to see the Starks get their revenge and I think they need their matriarch back in action to achieve this.

Do you think Lady Stoneheart will make an appearance in the Season 6 finale?

Brock Turner’s full statement was just released and it’s worst than we thought

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If you're wondering what magic words former Stanford University student Brock Turner said to judge Aaron Persky that led to his being let off with just six months in county jail for sexually assaulting a woman while she was unconscious, it's just as pathetic as you might imagine.

Turner's full statement has been released. I wish I could say that the 23-year-old unidentified victim receives the apology she deserves. At this point, it would be gratifying to receive some small sign that Turner feels remorse that isn't tied to his own feelings of fear about his fate. But, over and over again in this statement, a portion of which The Guardian released, Turner proves that he is completely missing the point in ways that call out his privilege and lack of compassion for others.

Yes, he admits that he caused people pain. He realizes he was to blame for his victim experiencing "emotional and physical stress" though he fails to see that "stress" is a word we use to describe the emotional state of college students during finals week, not one used when talking about a woman who had "long, pointed beaks" inside of her and her "vagina smeared with cold blue paint to check for abrasions" after you sexually assaulted and essentially left her for dead.

And then there's this line: "I’ve lost two jobs solely based on the reporting of my case. I wish I never was good at swimming or had the opportunity to attend Stanford, so maybe the newspapers wouldn’t want to write stories about me."

This young man obviously hasn't lived long enough to comprehend fully that he is neither the first, nor last, person with means to attend a well-regarded school or accomplish sporting feats in a small town that led him to believe he was very special indeed. Wealth, athleticism, connected parents, good schools, alcohol, wild college parties — none of these things make you a person who rapes a woman. Period. If you don't want newspapers to report on your horrific actions, don't commit horrific actions. And when an intelligent man who can eloquently describe his own pain refuses to apply the same weight in words to his victim, I refuse to believe it's because he doesn't have a way with words. The reason is because he still can't see that he poured acid on the value, worth, and future of another human being and then, instead of accepting the consequence that would provide her with some semblance of justice — which is really a pittance when you've lost yourself — he thought of how to get himself out of trouble.

More: Let's admit why Brock Turner's getting sympathy for rape

Both the victim and prosecutor were reportedly unsatisfied with Turner's statement and felt it lacked any real and substantial remorse. The first two sentences alone are telling, what with his focus on how his life has been changed, how he can never go back to being the same person. The only hope I have for this man is that one day, after many years of honest reflection that can maybe only happen because he has been stripped of some of his privilege, he gets to a point where he loses himself enough to see his victim first. Even though that doesn't seem to have happened yet, Persky said: "I take him at his word that subjectively that's his version of his events. I'm not convinced that his lack of complete acquiescence to the verdict should count against him."

The victim provided an exclusive interview to The Guardian, in which she stressed how she felt Turner's statement was harmful.

“People need to know that this way of thinking is dangerous," she told the publication. "It’s threatening. More than my emotions, it’s my safety, everyone else’s safety. It’s not just me feeling sad and defeated. It’s honest fear. The anger everyone is expressing has so many levels of being hurt and feeling that fear. Anger is how a lot of us are expressing it, but it comes from a place of pain. It’s unacceptable. There’s no way you can wiggle out of this.”

More: The sad truth is that rape kits tell us nothing about consent

Here's a portion of Turner's statement — the one he penned to attempt to "wiggle out of this" by asking for probation instead of jail time.

The night of January 17th changed my life and the lives of everyone involved forever. I can never go back to being the person I was before that day. I am no longer a swimmer, a student, a resident of California, or the product of the work that I put in to accomplish the goals that I set out in the first nineteen years of my life. Not only have I altered my life, but I’ve also changed [redacted] and her family’s life. I am the sole proprietor of what happened on the night that these people’s lives were changed forever. I would give anything to change what happened that night.

I can never forgive myself for imposing trauma and pain on [redacted]. It debilitates me to think that my actions have caused her emotional and physical stress that is completely unwarranted and unfair. The thought of this is in my head every second of every day since this event has occurred. These ideas never leave my mind. During the day, I shake uncontrollably from the amount I torment myself by thinking about what has happened. I wish I had the ability to go back in time and never pick up a drink that night, let alone interact with [redacted]. I can barely hold a conversation with someone without having my mind drift into thinking these thoughts. They torture me. I go to sleep every night having been crippled by these thoughts to the point of exhaustion. I wake up having dreamt of these horrific events that I have caused. I am completely consumed by my poor judgement and ill thought actions. There isn’t a second that has gone by where I haven’t regretted the course of events I took on January 17th/18th. My shell and core of who I am as a person is forever broken from this. I am a changed person.

At this point in my life, I never want to have a drop of alcohol again. I never want to attend a social gathering that involves alcohol or any situation where people make decisions based on the substances they have consumed. I never want to experience being in a position where it will have a negative impact on my life or someone else’s ever again. I’ve lost two jobs solely based on the reporting of my case. I wish I never was good at swimming or had the opportunity to attend Stanford, so maybe the newspapers wouldn’t want to write stories about me.

All I can do from these events moving forward is by proving to everyone who I really am as a person. I know that if I were to be placed on probation, I would be able to be a benefit to society for the rest of my life. I want to earn a college degree in any capacity that I am capable to do so. And in accomplishing this task, I can make the people around me and society better through the example I will set. I’ve been a goal oriented person since my start as a swimmer. I want to take what I can from who I was before this situation happened and use it to the best of my abilities moving forward. I know I can show people who were like me the dangers of assuming what college life can be like without thinking about the consequences one would potentially have to make if one were to make the same decisions that I made. I want to show that people’s lives can be destroyed by drinking and making poor decisions while doing so. One needs to recognize the influence that peer pressure and the attitude of having to fit in can have on someone. One decision has the potential to change your entire life. I know I can impact and change people’s attitudes towards the culture surrounded by binge drinking and sexual promiscuity that protrudes through what people think is at the core of being a college student. I want to demolish the assumption that drinking and partying are what make up a college lifestyle I made a mistake, I drank too much, and my decisions hurt someone. But I never ever meant to intentionally hurt [redacted].

My poor decision making and excessive drinking hurt someone that night and I wish I could just take it all back. If I were to be placed on probation, I can positively say, without a single shred of doubt in my mind, that I would never have any problem with law enforcement. Before this happened, I never had any trouble with law enforcement and I plan on maintaining that. I’ve been shattered by the party culture and risk taking behavior that I briefly experienced in my four months at school. I’ve lost my chance to swim in the Olympics. I’ve lost my ability to obtain a Stanford degree. I’ve lost employment opportunity, my reputation and most of all, my life. These things force me to never want to put myself in a position where I have to sacrifice everything. I would make it my life’s mission to show everyone that I can contribute and be a positive influence on society from these events that have transpired. I will never put myself through an event where it will give someone the ability to question whether I really can be a betterment to society. I want no one, male or female, to have to experience the destructive consequences of making decisions while under the influence of alcohol. I want to be a voice of reason in a time where people’s attitudes and preconceived notions about partying and drinking have already been established. I want to let young people now, as I did not, that things can go from fun to ruined in just one night.

If you know what's good for you, you'll sit in the correct pooping posture

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My first experience with a squat toilet wasn't exactly positive. I had just landed in Taiwan after a 14-hour flight and all I wanted to do was use the bathroom. However, all I could find was a strange stall with a whole in the ground and two platforms for my feet. It took a little while, but I figured it out.

More: 8 reasons you're not pooping as regularly as you should

It didn't take long to master the art of squatting and I turned into a pro by the end of my month-long trip. Everything seemed to flow a little bit better, too.

And it turns out, there's a really good reason for that.

Pooping positions

Doctors and scientists have long argued that modern-day toilets are bad for our bodies. When we sit on the toilet, our bodies are turned into what's known as the anorectal angle. In this position, our rectums get "kinked," making it difficult for us to poop. Squatting helps relax the puborectalis muscle and takes out that kink, allowing us to properly eliminate all of our waste without straining. This method also helps us keep hemorrhoids and urinary tract infections from developing because we're not straining.

More: What your poo says about you

So, does that mean you need to ditch the toilet and install a new system? Nope. You can get the same effect from raising your knees into the proper angle with a small stool system known as the Squatty Potty.

The Squatty Potty comes in a variety of sizes to help everyone in your family get the proper 35-degree angle. Prices range from $25 for the economical version to $70 for a sleek bamboo Potty.

And as for an optimal pooping experience every time you hit the bathroom? Priceless.

How the Squatty Potty works

Squatty Potty Informational Video

Squatty Potty Informational Video

How to pick out, shuck and prepare oysters like a pro

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Shellfish like oysters can be a little complicated to prep at home. So we talked with celeb chef Marc Murphy to get you his best tips, tricks and recipe ideas that will make you an oyster bar rock star in the kitchen.

More: 13 delicious ways to slurp oysters this summer

Selecting oysters

When you go to the market to buy oysters, check for freshness. Make sure they are alive but fully closed.

There are so many varieties to choose from (Pacific, Eastern and Olympia are just a few). How do you know which are best?

Chef Murphy suggests that you go with the oysters that don’t have “jet lag.” He prefers to serve East Coast oysters in his New York City restaurants Ditch Plains and Landmarc because he wants to have the freshest oysters possible. When looking for oysters at the market, you want to go with the oysters that are local and have the least amount of travel time.

Shucking oysters

1. Rinse your oysters thoroughly under cool running water.

shucking oysters
Image: Karen Cox/SheKnows

2. Place your oyster rounded side down on a towel, and fold the towel partially over the oyster, leaving the hinge side uncovered.

shucking oysters
Image: Karen Cox/SheKnows

3. Sever the hinge by pushing the tip of an oyster knife (or other short, sturdy knife) into it and working it around until it releases. This will take practice.

shucking oysters
Image: Karen Cox/SheKnows

4. Sever the muscle holding the shell together by fitting the (freshly cleaned) blade crosswise between the shells and working it from the hinge to the other end.

shucking oysters
Image: Karen Cox/SheKnows

5. Discard the top shell. Cupping the bottom shell in one hand, sever the muscle that attaches the muscle to the inside. Be careful to not tip the shell and lose that delicious liquor.

shucking oysters
Image: Karen Cox/SheKnows

More: How to peel and devein shrimp in seconds

Prepping oysters

Once you’ve shucked your oysters, now comes the fun part: preparation.

Raw: You can keep things simple and serve your oysters raw. Murphy says he loves eating his raw oysters with a squeeze of lemon or a little vinaigrette called a mignonette on them.

To make a mignonette, all you’ll need to do is combine rice wine vinegar, minced shallot, grated ginger and black pepper. Drizzle over your fresh oysters, and you have a fresh and flavorful appetizer — it’s that simple.

Cooked: If you want to try something a little out of the box, Murphy suggests this cooked oyster recipe that is just phenomenal. Slice pieces of baguette thinly, top with oysters, add a compound butter of garlic and parsley to each oyster, and roast them in the oven. The oysters cook, and the butter melts, spilling onto the bread, making an irresistible recipe. “As far as cooked oysters go, this recipe is fantastic,” says Murphy.

You can also make that same recipe right on the grill during the warmer months. If making a compound butter is a little out of your comfort zone, Murphy suggests substituting the compound butter with barbecue sauce, then grilling your oysters — it's the perfect warm-weather appetizer.

Grab a beer, and enjoy your oyster recipe options.

More: 10 recipes using sustainable seafood

Days of Our Lives' plan to replace Kate Mansi is ludicrous

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All of the soaps are great about releasing spoilers to the fans a few weeks ahead of time. However, looking at the upcoming Days of Our Lives storyline with Kate Mansi’s exit as Abigail, we have to put on the brakes.

More: Jen Lilley's DOOL exit may just be another nail in the coffin for the show

The latest DOOL spoilers have Chad (Billy Flynn) and Marlena (Deidre Hall) arriving at the Shady Hills psychiatric hospital after receiving word that there was a fire and Abby was injured. According to CelebDirtyLaundry.com, her burns will cover her face and require a mask.

Come on! Do the DOOL producers think we need an age-old soap device to replace an actor? This is how they are going to have Mansi exit and replacement Marci Miller enter the show? We deserve better than that.

More: Soap characters who were played by multiple actors

The website is reporting that there is even facial reconstructive surgery coming up for Abby. While Mansi and Miller certainly don't look alike, we know fans can handle a new actor stepping into a role. It happens all of the time on soaps.

In fact, Billy Flynn replaced Casey Deidrick, who originated the role of Chad in 2014. There wasn't a silly facial reconstruction story to explain their differences in appearance. Why do they have to do that to Abby?

More: 4 reasons why Days of Our Lives axed 4 cast members

Soap Opera Digest has a recent print interview with Mansi, who indicated that her final scenes went through several revisions. Were the DOOL writers toying with multiple endings for her departure?

It doesn’t sound like it was an easy process, but we think DOOL could do a lot better than heading down this road. It's a short road at this point since the actress revealed on Instagram that her last show is Friday, June 24; so mark those calendars.

The DOOL writers have a heavy workload ahead with transitioning Miller into Mansi's spot in addition to satisfying Jen Lilley fans about Theresa's concluding storyline. We still don't know if Theresa will be played by another actress, but Lilley's departure leaves big shoes to fill in.

What do you think about the Days of Our Lives storyline for Abigail?

Supergirl's Jeremy Jordan is giving us a chance to save a teenage girl — his cousin

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Sometimes, celebrities use their power for good. Supergirl's Jeremy Jordan has caught media attention with his fight for his cousin Sarah, who he claims is "trapped against her will at a terrible facility in Texas." According to Jordan, after attending prom with her girlfriend, Sarah's parents sent her to an East Texas Christian boarding facility to “pray away the gay.”

More: Supergirl: Not even awesome villains could save The Flash crossover episode

On a GoFundMe page, Jordan's brother Joey explains that the family is accepting donations that will go toward legal fees for the lawyers trying to get Sarah released from custody.

jeremy jordan tweet

jeremy jordan tweet

Not only can Sarah not leave of her own free will, the site explains, she can't even escape. "When Sarah attempted to walk out of the facility shortly after being placed there, staff quickly apprehended her and returned her to the facility, and she was punished for her escape attempt."

More: North Carolina's shocking anti-LGBT law is making us all look like fools

Jordan wrote on Twitter, "It BREAKS MY HEART this sweet young girl who's only 'issue' is loving another girl has been sent to a facility for 'troubled teens.' News flash, folks, there's nothing wrong with her. #SaveSarah."

People spoke with the law firm bringing the suit, and the attorney hired by Sarah's aunt had this to say about the case: "I can't comment on pending litigation, other than to authenticate that to the best of my knowledge, the background information on the GoFundMe shared by Sarah's cousin is truthful."

More: A transgender dad tells us what it's like to show up at La Leche League


In defense of Justin Bieber: The poor kid just needs a break

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According to a report by TMZ, Justin Bieber got into a fistfight outside his hotel in downtown Cleveland last night. The report included a video from a bystander of the alleged brawl, showing Bieber enmeshed in the scuffle with an unnamed man. TMZ reports, "Several people were standing nearby and tried to jump in, but the fight ends up spilling to the ground. It's unclear what started the scrap. Bieber was in town for Game 3 of the NBA Finals, and was wearing a Cleveland Cavaliers shirt... so it could be postgame trash talk."

More: Why is Justin Bieber wearing a pacifier?

For his part, Bieber seemingly responded to the report with a now-deleted Instagram shot — a selfie that he captioned: "Not a scratch on this pretty boy."

He certainly seems to be making light of whatever went down in Cleveland. But here's the thing: He needs to step away from the spotlight for a pretty extended amount of time, and he needs to do it quickly. Bieber's behavior has been erratic for years now, which I've always chalked up to his being young and thrust in the spotlight very early (yep, I even defended him after the pee bucket incident too!). But lately, things are on a completely different level, and I think something is going on with him beyond just normal "teen star" growing pains.

More: Justin Bieber needs a vacation

It certainly seemed that Bieber was on a good path as of late. His recent album, Purpose, managed to win over even the most ardent Bieber skeptics, and suddenly it became cool to admit you liked his music. He seemed to be showing some semblance of self-awareness, apologizing for his questionable actions and vowing to grow as a person. But as of late, there's something not right with Bieber, and I cannot understand why the people around him aren't seeing it.

His most recent performance at the 2016 Billboard Music Awards was lackluster, to say the least, but only because he seemed completely disinterested in being there or performing at all. Recent videos from his Purpose tour show someone who appears pretty unexcited to be onstage... a far cry from the Bieber I saw at a sold-out show in Madison Square Garden in 2012, who sang and danced his heart out with an omnipresent smile across his face. In fact, he's reportedly been crying onstage. If this doesn't scream out as a literal cry for help, I'm not sure what does.

More: What the heck is going on with Justin Bieber lately?

Then there was the cancellation of his meet-and-greets that fans paid plenty of money to get, due to being "exhausted to the point of depression." And lest we forget the no-photos rule for fans that came after his bizarre behavior in Boston, walking around barefoot and talking to pigeons (really!).

I'm not a mental health expert, but these are all pretty obvious signs that Bieber is worn out by being a pop star at the moment, and it's truthfully in his best interest to step aside from the spotlight for a long time. It seems he has plenty of things that he needs to work through privately, and this is more than just bratty 22-year-old stuff. This is a person who appears to be incredibly exhausted and unhappy, and in need of some help.

Beliebers will understand and will welcome him and his music back whenever he's ready, if that's what he decides is right for him.

Before you go, check out our slideshow below!

justin bieber mishaps slideshow

Image: Dave Bedrosian/Future Image/WENN

What do you think? Should Justin Bieber take a very long break from the music industry? Weigh in, in the comments below!

Boy who couldn't resist sneaking in a dog hug is the world's cutest trespasser

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We never thought trespassing could actually be cute... until we saw this video.

Little boy sneaks into garage to hug neighbor's dog

Little boy sneaks into garage to hug neighbor's dog

The adorable little bandit, Josh Breaux, was caught on camera sneaking into his neighbor's garage to steal a quick hug from their loving pup, Dutchess. According to Josh's mom, Ginger Breaux, the 9-year-old dog lover from Louisiana is completely infatuated with the black lab next door and talks about her all the time. He even passes by their house on the daily to see if he can sneak a peek at the beloved pup.

More: I want people to stop judging my German shepherd on her looks

Mrs. Breaux was unaware of her son's sneaky hug-and-runs until her neighbor, Hollie Mallet, posted a video of the security camera footage on Facebook. Apparently, Josh had begun to make regular appearances on his neighbor's in-home surveillance, sneaking into the garage for brief hugs and then quickly darting off on his bike. The neighboring dog-owner hoped that by posting this cute clip she could identify her dog's mysterious new friend, writing in her post, "Attention neighbors! Anyone know who this sweet little boy is? I'd like to tell him he's welcome to stay and play, she loves the attention!"

Luckily, Josh's mom was able to solve the puzzle for Mallet, who made it very clear that Josh is more than welcome to steal some puppy playtime anytime he wants. Mrs. Breaux commented on the video that even though she was "torn as a momma being happy and upset because he knows he shouldn't be on someone's property," that she was still so happy to see "that he just absolutely adores dogs so much."

More: I didn't appreciate my dog's obedience training until my safety depended on it

Josh's own dog passed away from old age just last year, and his neighbor says that she could not be happier that her dog has helped him fill that void. Josh's mom explained that they "have not jumped back into taking on the responsibility of starting all over again with a new pup quite yet. It will happen though!"

Until then, Josh definitely seems to have found an amazing furry friend for the time being. "It's a win-win," his neighbor told ABC News. "They both get a friend."

Mrs. Mallet says that Josh now comes over for trespass-free playdates with Dutchess almost every day.

Its not at all surprising that the adorable video now has over 2 million views on Facebook — we sure can't get enough of this puppy love!

More: A parrot may be a key witness in a murder mystery — but how reliable is a bird?

These Netflix hacks will take your binging to a whole new level

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When it comes to watching movies and television, let's face it: Netflix is the way to go for most of us these days. Wait, make that 47 million of us. No commercials, no waiting a week for the next episode, no making it to bed at a reasonable hour ever again. And just when you thought Netflix couldn’t make it any easier to binge watch every single episode of Orange Is the New Black in the span of a week, well, they did it.

As it turns out, there are a whole slew of super secret hacks that can make your viewing experience more convenient and more enjoyable than ever before. Want to take your bingeing to a whole new level? Continue reading for five Netflix hacks you absolutely have to know.

More: 100 words from Urban Dictionary that changed the world

Netflix Hacks

Image: Terese Condella/SheKnows

Discover hidden categories (and hours of unwatched TV and movies)

While this hack isn’t brand new, it is one that even the most devoted binge-watchers may have missed. Netflix organizes their content into genres, making it easy for users to browse through the library from the TV or computer screen. But not all of their categories are listed on the Netflix home screen. Finding these secret Netflix categories is as simple as changing the numbers at the end of a Netflix genre URL that is located on the home screen. So, you have a URL that looks like this: www.netflix.com/browse/genre/6839, and all you need to do is change the last two numbers randomly until you find a category that grabs your interest.

If you aren’t sure you have the time or dedication to discover all of Netflix’s hidden genres yourself, you can take a peek at an official list.

Tweak Your Streaming Speed to Avoid Buffering

Is there anything more annoying than having your favorite show interrupted by buffering? Well this hack allows you to tweak your streaming speed to avoid buffering altogether. To access the menu that controls these settings, hit Shift+Alt+Left Click on your PC or Shift+Option+Click on your Mac. Within that menu, select the “stream manager” option and change your playback to match up with your buffering rate. This should keep buffering from interrupting your viewing in the future.

More: These funny road signs are a trip (pun very much intended)

Create Different Profiles

Whether you are sharing your Netflix account with a roommate, a spouse or your kids, it can be frustrating sifting through recommendation after recommendation that is based on someone else’s viewing habits. In 2013, Netflix added a feature that allows users to create up to five profiles for each account.

To create a profile, select the "Manage Profiles" option in the top right corner of your screen and create a unique name for your profile. To influence the recommendations that appear within that profile, simply make sure you are using that profile to watch all of your favorite shows and movies.

Delete Your Viewing History

We all have our guilty pleasure shows, but we might not all want our viewing choices broadcasted to every other person sharing our account. If you found yourself watching Katy Perry: Part of Me one Friday night, simply follow these tips to erase all proof from your Netflix account.

The easiest way to erase your guilty pleasures from your Netflix account is to delete your profile completely. Once a profile is deleted, the viewing history from that profile will be deleted as well. If you were using your main account at the time, you will have to completely delete your account and re-subscribe. Now, that is a lot of work so you’ll have to decide how important protecting your reputation is to you.

More: Netflix hacks for families who want to make movie night a little more chill

Watch Your Shows in HD

Netflix has made it possible for subscribers to watch their favorite TV shows and movies in high definition. To switch to HD, head into your account settings and select the option labeled "Playback Settings." Under the option called "Data Usage," switch your preference to "High." Make sure you hit save before you hurry off to watch with your new, beautifully clear picture.

Before you go, check out our slideshow below.

netflix shows for kids
Image: Netflix



10 dog breeds that don't stink so you don't feel guilty for skipping bathtime

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If you've ever walked into a friend's home and were immediately hit with a whiff of "eau de canine," then you know where we're heading with this. Believe it or not, it's possible to be a dog lover without that strong dog scent following you and your pup around wherever you go.

Choosing a notoriously neutral dog breed — and sticking to a regular grooming schedule — can leave your furry companion smelling fresh as a daisy:

1. Poodle

Poodle
Image: littledoglinus

The experts at PetPlace.com recommend poodles for people who prefer dogs that naturally have low odor. These fluffy pups come in three sizes, from toy poodles that are ideal for apartment dwellers to the standard poodles that love larger accommodations, and have a hypoallergenic coat that may reduce allergic reactions.

2. Bichon frise

Bichon Frise
Image: sandygram78

Another dog that tends to be a good breed for allergy sufferers, the bichon is a low- to no-odor dog that doesn't shed much but requires regular brushing. These playful pups also have a load of energy and love physical activity.

More: Top 10 non-shedding dog breeds

3. Collies

Collie
Image: amandaaa08

Lassie had more going for her than being a loyal life-saver. She was also a collie, a clean breed pleasantly noted for not having a doggy odor. Keep in mind, though, that collies do shed and need regular brushing.

Next Up: Basenji

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4. Basenji

Basenji
Image: fiuk_the_basenji

The basenji is an ideal pet for the dog lover who wants a breed that is quiet and easy on the nose. Basenjis, also known as the barkless dog, are energetic canines with a short coat that needs minimal grooming and doesn't have the typical doggy odor.

5. Maltese

Maltese
Image: sonyatanjaya

These graceful, gorgeous pups have a full-body mane of hair that needs regular brushing, but they are easy on the nose and considered a clean dog breed. Their small size and gentle spirit make them ideal companion dogs.

6. Beagle

Beagle
Image: candy_the_beagle

According to the American Kennel Club, beagles are one of the most popular dogs in the United States. If you, too, are a "Snoopy" fan and want a dog with no odor and low-maintenance grooming, beagles will make you a happy camper.

More: 22 Photos of beagle puppies that will make your heart stop with cuteness

7. Boston terrier

Boston terrier
Image: bostonterrier1

The experts at WhosYaDoggy.com classify Boston terriers as having little to no odor. This small, gentle dog requires a minimal amount of grooming and makes a great house pet.

Next Up: Pomeranian

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8. Pomeranian

Pomeranian
Image: pomeranianpage

Described by the American Kennel Club as energetic, cocky and animated, Poms are easy on the nose and delightfully eager to please their pet parents. Though they are energetic, because of their small size they don't require much exercise.

More: 16 Times this Instagram-famous pomeranian was just like us

9. Samoyed

Samoyed
Image: cbwbedford

These bright, alert, and high-energy dogs don't stink, but their long, luxe coat needs regular brushing to prevent mats. Make sure you have plenty of room and exercise for this fluffy, huggable pup.

10. Dalmatian

Dalmation
Image: dogpicturesonline

Another low- to no-odor breed according to WhosYaDoggy.com, dalmatians, the iconic "firehouse dog," are intelligent, high-energy dogs that thrive in a family environment. Keep in mind that they do need regular exercise and brushing to minimize shedding.

An extra tip: Minimize the doggy odor

Regardless of breed, any dog can emit an unpleasant or strong odor, according to Kathryn Barkley, grooming salon manager at Petco in Encinitas, California. She recommends regular bathing and grooming, as well as feeding your furry friend a high-quality dog food. "A lower-quality food that contains a lot of fillers can often make a dog smell bad because the odors come out through the skin and coat," she explains. "In addition, feeding a formula with fish can sometimes make a pet's coat have a slight fish odor."

Originally published Sept. 2013. Updated June 2016.

Can Shemar Moore's new Criminal Minds replacement heal fans' broken hearts?

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OK, Criminal Minds fans, I know you have been crying tears of despair ever since Shemar Moore's exit from the show last spring, but fret not. CBS just found a suitable replacement that will ease everyone's pain and fill those oh-so-hot Derek Morgan-sized shoes.

Shemar Moore gif
Image: shemarfranklinmoore/Tumblr

I know, I know, it sounds ridiculous that someone could possibly hold a candle to Moore's sexiness. But hear me out: The network just announced that Adam Rodriguez of Magic Mike fame has been added as a series regular for Season 12, according to Us Weekly.

More: Criminal Minds was renewed! Will Season 12 bring some serious carnage?

And if anyone can mend our broken hearts over Moore's departure, it's a man who can hold his own next to Channing Tatum.

Magic Mike gif
Image: Giphy

That's Rodriguez to the right of Tatum, by the way. Hubba hubba.

"We have exciting storylines planned for his character and the entire Behavioral Analysis Unit team as we head into our 12th season," executive producer and showrunner Erica Messer said of Rodriguez, who will play a special agent on the FBI Fugitive Task Force in the BAU.

More: Prentiss' Criminal Minds return makes me nostalgic for a superior cast

Rodriguez also took to Instagram to make the announcement and express his excitement.

"Just wanted to say how happy I am to be joining the cast of this great show! I look forward to working with the family of people involved in making this such a long standing hit and to entertaining all of the wonderful fans that have made it possible," he captioned a photo on the social media site.

Adam Rodriguez Instagram

Adam Rodriguez Instagram

More: Channing Tatum announced big plans for Magic Mike & we're hoping to see big things

Rodriguez is no stranger to crime fighting, either. He played Detective Eric "Delko" Delektorsky on CSI: Miami from 2002 to 2012.

What do you think of the BAU's newest member?

Before you go, check out our slideshow below.

Criminal Minds slideshow then & now
Image: CBS
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