Top Ten Most Controversial Websites

I have not compiled this list to upset anyone or promote these sites. Most of these sites have already been profiled in the mainstream media, often noting their involvement in tragic cases.

I have listed the links to some sites, but it will be up to Jamie whether to include them or not [JFrater: I have decided to provide links to them]. I can’t decide what would be better, to link to the site so you can all make up your own mind or to not link to the site so as not to even appear to promote them. I will describe some of the sites in generalities instead of naming specific ones because there is oftentimes more than one for each topic.

10 The Pirate Bay

The Pirate Bay is a website for sharing and locating torrent files (special plain text files) that allow you to download movies, software, and music legally and illegally. There have been numerous attempts to shut the site down but as it is just serving text files and not the actual illegal data, these attempts have failed. The site is based in Sweden. [Website]

9.Ogrish

Ogrish.com was a shock site which presented uncensored news coverage and multimedia material based for the most part on war, accidents and executions. Much of the material depicted was graphic, uncensored, gory videos and images. The content was depicted as a means to challenge the viewer, with its catch line being ‘Can you handle life’, but later changed to ‘Uncover Reality’ after the site received a major design overhaul with aims of becoming more open to the general public and become a respected ‘alternative news service’. [Wikipedia | Website]

8.Rotten

Rotten.com is a United States-hosted shock site with a slogan of “An archive of disturbing illustration” operated by Soylent Communications. It is devoted to morbid curiosities, primarily pictures of gruesome fatalities, deformities, autopsy or forensic photographs, depictions of perverse sex acts, and historical curios that are disturbing or misanthropic in nature. The site was founded in 1996, and its format has changed very little since that time.

[Wikipedia | Website]

7.Fight Videos

First, there were Bumfights videos, then there were gang fights and now we have kids fighting and recording their fights to post online. Sadly, some of the participants are either unwilling or unaware of what is going on. [Website]

6.Pro-Pedophilia

There is a movement to legalize and encourage consensual sexual relationships between adults and “consenting” minors. They have gained legitimacy in recent years and have garnered support from the likes of Allen Ginsberg. The most prominent of these sites (NAMBLA) has been parodied in South Park and other comedy movies. [Website]

5.Murderabelia

Some murderabelia is simply murder-related, while some is created by actual murderers. Some states in the US have enacted Son of Sam laws where killers are not allowed to profit from their crimes, but these laws are often stricken down as unconstitutional. [Website]

4.Glorifying Serial Killers

I personally am not troubled by learning about serial killers, but some people take it a little far. From calendars to trading cards, there is an entire community seemingly obsessed with all things serial killer related. [Website]

3.Crime Scene Photos

What makes this controversial is how it might impact the victim’s families. While these pictures are often in the public domain, others are leaked or stolen from police files. I remember seeing a story on a news magazine show about a family being tormented by someone constantly emailing them pictures of the scene of their daughter’s fatal car accident. [Website] 

2.Suicide Ideas and Assistance

Apparently some people think it’s a good idea to encourage people who are suffering from depression to consider suicide as an option, or at least encourage them to not rule it out. To me this seems incredibly cruel. [Website]

1.Pro-Anorexia

There are websites dedicated to legitimizing lifestyles centered on anorexia and bulimia. These sites provide tips and tricks for hiding your disorder as well as “thinspiration” pictures of skinny people, often celebrities. Governments all over the world are cracking down on these sites, but they are still out there and there is a movement to support their right to exist. [Website]

The Strangest And Weird Car Features

To stand out in a crowded field, automakers have to push the envelope when it comes to adding unique attributes to a vehicle. Sure, your neighbor just parked a brand-new car in his driveway—but does his new ride have glowing speakers, or a built-in perfume dispenser?

We’ve combed through spec sheets and options lists in our search for the strangest new car features. What we found is an automotive world full of creativity and, in some cases, a few items that just left us scratching our head. What exactly is a “Gentleman Function” button—and what is it doing in a BMW luxury sedan?

Grabbing the attention of car buyers isn’t made easier when even the most basic economy car often comes loaded with standard equipment such as air conditioning, power door locks and a window-rattling stereo system. Even a supercar costing $1.7 million isn’t immune to adding some razzle dazzle to set it apart from, well, all the other million dollar supercars.

2011 Mini Cooper Convertible – Openometer

Mini Cooper Convertible owners apparently need an added incentive to drop their tops. How else can we explain the “Openometer,” a tiny gauge mounted on the dashboard that records in minutes and hours precisely how long the fabric top has been kept down. Fitted as standard equipment, the Openometer, says Mini, is “a tool to help keep you aware of your openness…so you can revel in the roofless hours you’ve spent on your trip, cultivating your open mind and a tan.” Our guess is that a few BMW-Mini engineers spent too much time in the sun before coming up with this useless gadget.

 

 2011 Bugatti Veyron 16.4 – Top Speed Key

 

The Bugatti Veyron 16.4 is among the fastest and most exclusive cars in the world. Not only do you need approximately $1.7 million to buy one, you’ll also need one very special key if you want to unlock this 1001-bhp supercar’s top speed of more than 250 miles per hour. An owner must fit the (unimaginatively named) “top speed key” before attempting to reach the Veyron’s outer limits. Give it a twist, and the Veyron’s suspension and rear spoiler are lowered for better wind-cheating aerodynamics. The steering input is also limited—at 250 mph, you want to make sure all your steering corrections are minor….

2011 BMW 750i – The “Gentleman Function”

The award for the most regal sounding— and totally bewildering—feature name goes to the BMW 7 series and the “Gentleman Function.” Located deep within the vehicle features of this refined Germany luxury sedan, the actual function of this device is less grandiose than its lofty title. Basically, it’s a clever way for the driver to make more room for rear passengers. With a few clicks of BMW’s iDrive controller, the front passenger seat can be maneuvered using the same controls used for the driver’s seat. Okay, but what’s the point? Unless you’re a limousine driver, there really isn’t one. The “Gentleman Function” allows the driver to increase legroom for rear passengers without forcing him or her to get out of the car and use the front passenger seat controls.

2011 Kia Soul – Glowing and Pulsing Speaker Lights

 

By now you’ve seen the cutesy commercials and are fully aware that hamsters have given the Kia Soul their full endorsement. Yet these furry household pets have a trick up their sleeve—or more exactly, a frivolous feature located in the front door-mounted speakers. Crank up the stereo in certain models of Kia Soul and watch as lights surrounding the speakers pulse and glow to the beat of the music. It’s fun, for about five minutes. After that, it’s about as enjoyable as having a bratty kid kick the back of your seat. To make matters worse, these illuminated speakers appear to be part of an ongoing recall related to the wiring harness of the 2010 Kia Soul.

2011 Ford Mustang – Adjustable Dashboard Lighting

 

Lots of cars have adjustable interior lighting, but the Ford Mustang takes top marks for the sheer magnitude of different colors on offer. With the scroll of a button, the Mustang’s gauge cluster can be tuned to one of literally hundreds of hues. This should really be the default sports coupe for any manager of a Sherwin-Williams or Benjamin Moore paint store. What’s even wackier is that, in a weird way, the Mustang’s interior light show really works wonders depending on the mood you’re in. Feeling racy? Switch the gauges to a fiery red and stomp the gas pedal. For relaxed highway cruising, opting for an icy blue or forest green helps calms things down.

 

 2011 Fiat 500 – Perfume dispenser

We tried to limit our selection of wacky features to vehicles sold in North America. But with U.S. sales likely to begin within the next few months, we couldn’t resist offering a sneak preview of the charming (and sweet-smelling) Fiat 500 city car. As an accessory, Fiat offers buyers of the 500 a built-in perfume diffuser for this retro-styled little hatchback. Available in white or black, the electric diffuser fits between the front seats. There are currently three fragrances: Citrus, Essence of Night and Breath of Fresh Air. The intensity of the scent can be adjusted by pushing the plus or minus buttons located on top of the device. About the only drawback—other than the giggling of your friends—is that the diffuser effectively turns the dual front-cupholder into a single drink unit.

2011 Honda Element – Dog Friendly Package

Your opinion of this next feature might be determined by whether or not you have paws and a tail. If you do—or happen to live with a creature that does—then the “Dog Friendly package” offered in the Honda Element could be your (second) best friend. For $995, this option package adds pooch-friendly features like a custom-fitted, soft-sided crate, spill-resistant water bowl, electric cooling fan mounted in the cargo bay, portable ramp, dog-patterned rear seat covers and heavy-duty dogbone- patterned floormats. Extra accessories include a leash, collar, ID tag and, yes, even a dispenser for dog-waste bags. Exterior paw-print badges on the tailgate and front fenders lets everyone know you’re a proud dog owner—as if being constantly covered in Fido’s hair wasn’t proof enough.

Melissa Merritt

This sleek and muscled 25 year old from Austin, Texas is Melissa Merritt.
Melissa won the Figure Overall title in Las Vegas at the Fitness America World Championships on November 21, 2008.
Melissa just ran a Fitness Bootcamp with fellow fitness stars Abby Marie and Brenda Mikalajunas.
Abby Marie is also being trained by Melissa.

Top 10 Honeymoon Destinations

We all want our honeymoon to be special, unique, and unforgettable. What is the perfect recipe for exceptional newly-weds' romance away from home? The tropics, wild desert, or maybe a vibrant city? See the selection of most popular destinations for the just-married to get inspired, or to check what you might like while planning your future honeymoon, wedding, or a romantic trip the two of you will enjoy.

 

1. The Maldives


Maldives.

Incredibly azure waters, perfect beaches covered with white warm sand, slender palm trees, remote and calm resorts...can you imagine a better place for a long-awaited honeymoon? Maldives is definitely a place where you and your brand new spouse will ascend to a paradise on earth.


Maldives.

The Maldives is an island country in the Indian Ocean that comprises twenty-six atolls and 1.195 islets. Charming honeymoon resorts are located on separate islands and many of them offer private bungalows so the just-married can enjoy privacy and intimacy of their personal exotic setting.


Maldives resort.

The resorts' offers are perfectly composed to satisfy the most demanding newlyweds. Romantic candlelit dinners, rooms decorated with flowers, breakfasts on the beach, or even your own private sandy spot...this could be a beginning of a beautiful marriage.

2. Chile


Torres del Paine.Chile.

If tropics seem a bit trite for you, then Chile might be a perfect option for a romantic, but also adventure-filled honeymoon. Chile is one of the most striking and beautiful countries in South America. It is also one of the few countries on the continent relatively free of crime, and with gradually increasing economy.


Valle del Equi.

The Chilean landscape is savage and diverse. A dry hot desert (the Atacama) is stretching in the north, a mountainous patch covers Southern Patagonia, and Torres del Paine National Park amazes with its untamed wilderness and beauty. Climbing volcanoes, strolling along vineyards, exploring glaciers, geysers and lakes are just a few examples of myriad opportunities waiting for the wild hearted newlyweds in Chile.

3. Greece


Oia. Greece.

Take ancient history, add monumental sites and exotic islands. Mix it with trendy hotels or isolated rustic accommodations and combine the mixture with sunny weather. Season all with excellent Mediterranean cuisine and rub it with the laid-back atmosphere. Let it stand for at least two weeks and you will have a perfect recipe for the ideal honeymoon.


Restaurant 1901, Skiathos Town.

This is Greece, an ancient country situated at the end of the Balkan Peninsula and surrounded by the crystal waters of the Mediterranean basin. Whether it is be Mykonos, a vibrant island packed with stylish bars and restaurants, a bit quiet Delos, or Crete, dotted with beautiful beaches, caves and historic ruins, Greece will help make your honeymoon special.

Sunset in Greece.

4. Tuscany, Italy


San Gimignano. Tuscany.

Home of fine art, excellent cuisine, magical landscapes, wine, wine, and more wine...Tuscany, a region in Italy, known for its beautiful countryside and rich artistic output. It is an ideal destination for newly married couples wanting to celebrate their honeymoon in Renaissance romantic surroundings, close to historic sites of elegant Florence and Pisa.

Tuscany in May.

Tuscany is a perfect blend of vibrant cities and romantic countryside of rolling hills, splendid Apuane Alps, charming vineyards, olive groves and miles of sandy beaches. The most romantic time to go is spring when the fields are covered with flowers and the weather is pleasantly warm, but not too hot.

Vineyards in Tuscany.

5. The Caribbean

Dominican Republic.

It can be Barbados, Jamaica, Turks & Caicos, Cayman Islands or some other Caribbean destination...the whole region featuring 7,000 islands, islets, reefs, and cays is a perfect getaway for newlyweds. The beaches are exotic, the water is crystal clear, the resorts are chic and the dining is excellent.


Turks and Caicos.

Caribbean islands are perfect destinations to relax on golden sands, enjoy beautiful sunsets, dive, golf, swim with dolphins or take long romantic cruises. The best time to go is from December to April; in May and November you may look for bargains; from June to October it rains and the hurricanes may occur.


Barbados

6. Arizona, the USA


Glen Vanyon. Arizona.

Again, if tropics are commonplace and the two of you are searching for something more dramatic and spiritual, then why not spend your honeymoon in Arizona. If you are looking for a bit of inspiration and adventure, this could be some true experience.


Arizona sunset. Sonoran Desert.

Whether you stay in bed and breakfast with dazzling mountain views, a trendy villa with spa or an all inclusive luxurious hotel, you will have a chance to come closer to nature, stay active biking, rafting, climbing or just strolling around hand in hand (how romantic!). Arizona is also great to do more down-to-earth and less romantic things such as shopping at trendy malls of Scottsdale and Phoenix, or dining out in great restaurants offering world-class cuisines, from Mexican spicy tastes to Japanese specialties.

7. Mexico

Cancun. Mexico.

No place can be as diverse and romantic as Mexico. The azure waters of the Pacific coast, stunning reefs perfect for diving and snorkeling in Yucatan, the magical and mysterious Teotihuacan site, excellent food and Mexico City's vibrant nightlife - this is Mexico, another ideal destination for spending an unforgettable honeymoon.


One of Mexico's romantic restaurants.

Mexico has so much to offer, from thousands of outdoor activities to historical sites and rich history, that it would be worth staying in the country at least several weeks. Unfortunately, the honeymoon is often very limited (in terms of duration, of course), but you can always treat it as a good introduction to your trips and vacations in Mexico in the future.


Cozumel, Mexico.

8. Fiji


Fiji's island.

Another idyllic place for a honeymoon is Fiji. The island country located in South Pacific Ocean is 365-days-a-year destination with excellent warm weather and super-friendly locals. There are around 300 islands and around 500 islets that make up Fiji, of which many are permanently inhabited.


Navala village. Fiji.

Fiji is also one of those places that you can easily call a paradise on earth: sandy beaches, turquoise waters, great reefs ideal for snorkeling and diving, mixed with the breathtaking interior brimming with volcano carters, waterfalls, mountain views and historical sites. Many resorts offer private honeymoon accommodations where you can feel like in your own personal heaven.


Coral Coast. Fiji.

9. Sydney, Australia


Sydney's harbour.

The tropics are great, the remote Chilean desert can be fascinating, the Greek islands are romantic, but if you still haven't found what you are looking for...Sydney might be an option for a fantastic, crazy honeymoon.


Bondi Beach. Sydney.

It does have great beaches, it does offer romantic getaways, it is sunny, relaxed and charming. The honeymoon in the vibrant city of trendy bars, smart restaurants, great sights of the Opera House, the Harbour Bridge, funky New Town and hip Bondi Beach is great for the just-married searching for 100% of great city life plus some striking beauty of nature.


Darling Harbour by night.

10. Hawaii, the USA


Kauai.

You and your spouse will love it, simply because Hawaii is difficult not to love. It might be packed with people in busy resorts, but once you get off the tourist tracks, you may find yourself alone (with your spouse... I mean) on empty beaches or in a lush rain forest.

Hawaii Sunset.

Hawaii's islands, located in the central Pacific Ocean, are the year-round destinations. There are eight main islands in the archipelago, so the choice is broad, but if you don't have much time to do island-hopping, stay on one of them to fully explore it. Among highlights are Big Island with Hawaii's tallest mountain, Mauna Kea, and a beautiful volcano, Kilauea, Kauai , the surfers' spot and home to Mount Waialeale Crater, and finally Maui , perfect for humpback whales watching.


Oahu.

Karen Zaremba

Stay at home Mom, IFBB Bodybuilder, former IFBB Figure Pro and fitness model Karen Zaremba.
Karen was born on January 27, 1964 in Detroit, Michigan.

Contest History:
2003- Michigan Novice Bodybuilding championships- overall
2004- Central States Figure championships- overall
2005- Junior USA's - third place Class A
2005- Junior Nationals- third place class A
2005- NPC National Figure Championships- second place class A, earned IFBB pro card
2007 Europa Super Show - 8th place lightweights