My dearest friend Kenny Kassel, passes away

Earlier this week, I received news that my dearest friend Kenny Kassel, had passed away. It is only now that I had enough strength to really put my thoughs into words. For many of you in the Bodybuilding and fitness world , we all know that Kenny Kassel has been a major contributer to our sport for over 40 years. He was the "jack of all traits" starting his career as a gym owner and promoter, and continued on a talent manager, (including actors such as Don the Dragon Wilson), and also was an NPC/IFBB official, and announcer. I think many can relate, as I sit here and ask myself " How I can't even imagine a show without Kenny!"
Kenny was the most honest, dependable and giving person and friend I know. He was known for his postive attitude, and abundance of knowledge and with that, helped many women in the industry by guiding them in the right direction and making sure they fell in line with the right people. I can honestly say , that Kenny was one of the first people I would turn to when needing professional advise in the industry. I always felt safe around Kenny knowing that he would always steer me right. We had so much fun at many of the various shows. Even more so, I enjoyed visiting him at his home in New Jersey when I was down visiting either for business or for a much needed vacation. Kenny would love to hang up, as we would sit and talk while grabing a healthy meal at "whole foods", one of Kenny's favourite places to shop.
It is very hard right now..and part of me feels so empty. I sit and look at this photo and remember how joyful and pleasant Kenny always was.
My thoughts and prayers go out to his family whom I know personally, his mother Mimi and Carol who are wonderful people.
I miss you Kenny! This is so hard! I guess it's a part of life , one that we all have to deal with at one time or another.
God Bless
P.S. This is a photo of me and Kenny at the Olympia in 2007

Arnold Competitor List revealed

Hey Everyone!

Well, it's Christmas week, and I am sure everyone is busy with getting the last minute gifts and visiting with family!

Others..who were anxiously awaiting to see if they would be one of the ones that would be gracing the Arnold stage, found out today who was on Arnold's list ( forget Santa's list, right? LOL). A BIG CONGRATULATIONS to all the athletes who were selected to compete at the upcoming 2009 Arnold Classic. I big relief of course. I must also give them props, as this is one of the hardest shows to diet for, given that most of these competitors have started dieting from the beginning of December, which is VERY hard to do over the holidays. Glad it's not me! ( wink! wink!)

To see who is on the competitor list visit: http://www.arnoldsportsfestival.com/

In the New Year, we will be featuring the women of the Arnold on our radio show www.LivingBeautifulRadio.com along with industry experts , including our official contest correspondent Ruth Silverman of Ironman Magazine.

Also keep posted to my plans and were to find me at the Arnold in Columbus , Ohio March 5-8, 2009

In the meanwhile, have a great holiday week!

A great day Christmas shopping with family!

First of all I wanted to say for those of you who listen to me on Living Beautiful Radio, please listen to this week's episode with Authors & Motivational Speakers Kary & Uche Odiatu. They are promoting their new book called "The Miracle of Health". Trust me! You will want to pick up this book if you need motivation and guidance on getting started...especially with the onset of the holiday season and the New Year where most are looking for a fresh start. This is also our season finale so we will be back in the New Year with the Count Down to the women of the Arnold!

Today was a great day! I really started getting into the Christmas spirit. My mom, who is the abolute best mother of life...sister and brother in law came down and we spent the day Christmas Shopping. I love GIVING! There are so many people that have been such a great support and I love giving back at Christmas time, after all it's all in the spirit of giving.
If anything please everyone out there, remember whatever good you put out in the world, comes back to you in 10 fold..so whether it's a simple smile, compliment or gesture, please remember to give. This time of year especially where there are those who may not be as fortunate.
On on industry note, I wrapped up some business with some magazine features which you can look foward to in the New Year.

Talk to you Sunday, the season finale of "So you think you can Dance Canada" is on. I think Nico is going to take it all! He is so passionate and creative. So glad that my friend Natalie is in the final 4! I feel for these dancers, especially since I know how hard they have worked to get this far. They have poured their hearts and souls into that dance floor. I know what is like to surrounder your entire efforts to something you love something so much. I have done both, in dance and fitness...sometimes it is very hard for the outside people to understand. But for anyone who has elited themselves to something so passionately and whole heartedly, you will know what I am speaking of ...it's the only time your heart really speaks..