It's been the worst offseason in NHL history. Tom Cavanagh and Rick Rypien both committed suicide, Derek Boogaard died from a drug overdose, and now six current and former NHL players have perished after a plane carrying Lokomotiv Yaroslavl, a Russian professional hockey team, crashed near the Russian city of Yaroslavl. Sports, though an escape, encapsulate the human condition, and those who follow them closely know that players aren't immune to the same randomness, unpredictability and personal issues we face in our lives. The following sports tragedies shook the nation and the world to their cores, and will remain forever etched in our memories.

1. U.S. figure skating team plane crash, 1961

   Last February marked the 50th anniversary of the crash of Sabena Flight 548, which killed all 18 members of the U.S. figure skating team — including numerous World Champions — and its coaching staff. En route to Prague from New York City for the 1961 World Championship, it rapidly descended on approach to Brussels, bursting into flames in a field near the airport. As a result, the World Championship event was canceled, and the U.S. had to completely rebuild its figure skating team, a process that took nearly a decade.

2. Marshall football team plane crash, 1970

   We Are Marshall depicts the extensive rebuilding and heeling processes that followed the crash of Southern Airways Flight 932. The Marshall Thundering Herd football team had just suffered a loss to the East Carolina Pirates and was returning home on a flight they hadn't originally chartered. Amid rain, fog and a rugged terrain, it struck the treetops on a hillside, caught fire and nosedived, killing 37 members of the team, eight members of the coaching staff and 25 boosters — sadly, 70 children lost a parent in the disaster. The nation immediately went into mourning, and the university almost discontinued the program. Fortunately, the fans convinced President Donald Dedmon to support rebuilding, and the rest is history.

3. Munich Olympics massacre, 1972

   The aptly named Palestinian terrorist organization Black September conducted a terrorist operation that forever cast a dark cloud on the 1972 Olympics. A hostage standoff ensued after eight men rounded up nine Israelis in an effort to secure the release of 234 prisoners held in Israel and Germany. After a resolution was delayed, the terrorists demanded to be flown to Cairo, prompting the Germans to organize Operation Sunshine. Knowing of the plan, the terrorists engaged in a shootout with the Germans, leading to the execution of all nine hostages by their captors. In the end, 11 Israeli athletes and coaches were dead, and just three of the terrorists were captured — the other five were killed.

4. Roberto Clemente dies in plane crash, 1972

   One of the most talented, accomplished and beloved players of his generation, Clemente's death was a devastating blow for the baseball community. The sting was made even greater by the fact that he died while on a relief flight to Managua, Nicaragua, which had just suffered a massive earthquake. Clemente wanted to ensure that the flight would reach its destination — the previous three relief flights were intercepted by corrupt officials of the Somoza government. The flight he charted had a history of mechanical problems and was overloaded, causing it to plunge into the ocean near Isla Verde, Puerto Rico. He received numerous posthumous honors, perhaps the most notable of which was his early induction into the Baseball Hall of Fame.

5. Len Bias dies after cocaine overdose, 1986

   A standout at Maryland, Bias had a promising future as the newest member of the Boston Celtics. But, just two days after the league's most successful franchise made him the No. 2 overall pick, he succumbed to cardiac arrhythmia caused by cocaine. The traumatic event occurred at his Maryland dorm room with teammates and friends, reaching a crisis point when an emergency medical team failed to restart his heart. Repeated attempts to revive him at the hospital also failed as friends and fans were gathering outside. The shock that overtook that crowd eventually overtook the nation. An entire generation remembers where they were when Bias died, another 1980's tragedy induced by drugs.

6. Zambia national soccer team plane crash, 1993

   The entire Zambian soccer team — 18 players and the coaching and support staff — was aboard Zambian Air Force Buffalo DHC-5D when its left engine caught fire, causing the pilot to mistakenly switch off the right engine and the aircraft to fall into the water near Libreville, Gabon. Today, they're buried and remembered at Heroes' Acre outside of Independence Stadium in Lusaka. In a comeback story similarly experienced by the Marshall football program, the newly rebuilt team immediately rebounded, making an improbable run to the African Nations Cup final, where it narrowly lost to Nigeria.

7. Dale Earnhardt dies in crash at Daytona, 2001

   Losing Dale Earnhardt was akin to losing someone such as Michael Jordan or Joe Montana. When NASCAR president Mike Helton announced his death following the 2001 Daytona 500, a large piece of NASCAR died as well. As the race was nearing completion, the left rear of Earnhardt's car was bumped by the right front of Sterling Marlin's car, forcing Earnhardt to correct, which caused him to crash into the wall at a speed of 155 to 160 mph. The incident resulted in the implantation of rules requiring head and neck restraints, which might have saved his life.

8. Oklahoma State basketball team plane crash, 2001

   Following a game between the Oklahoma State Cowboys and Colorado Buffaloes, a Beechcraft Super King Air 200 carrying members of the media and two players — Nate Fleming and Daniel Lawson — crashed near Strasberg, Colorado. It was later determined that mechanical failure was the cause. Last January, the Oklahoma State community remembered the 10 men who lost their lives during halftime of the Texas game. Former coach Eddie Sutton and former player Desmond Mason discussed the impact the men had on the program and many lives with whom they came into contact.

9. Three football players lost at sea, 2009

   Marquise Cooper and Corey Smith, both NFL players, and Will Bleakley and Nick Schuyler, both former football players at South Florida, merely wanted to spend a day fishing in the Gulf. But an unfortunate error caused the boat to capsize, leaving the four men in a fight for their lives. Two days later, Schuyler was found by the Coast Guard floating and clinging to the boat, with Cooper, Smith and Bleakley nowhere in sight. Private searchers continued to look for the three men, but called it off four days later. It was a remarkable story of survival for Schuyler, but, of course, it was also an extremely traumatic experience, as he witnessed his friends' final moments.

10. Lokomotiv Yaroslavl hockey team plane crash, 2011

    An outpouring of sympathy and condolences have come from the 10 countries from which the players and coaches hailed. Overall, 44 of the 45 people on board died, including Alexander Galimov, who died five days later. The Yak-Service Yakovlev Yak-42 was en route to Minsk, Belarus from Yaroslavl, Russia for the start of the 2011-12 Russian Major League season. The accident occurred when it struck a beacon tower mast after it failed to gain altitude, causing it to fall into the river bank of the Tunoshna River. Memorial services were subsequently held around Russia, where Rene Fasel, International Ice Hockey Federation president, described it as "the darkest day in the history of our sport."

Since home video games were popularized in the '80s, killjoys have blamed them for almost every ill in society. Games have supposedly started wars, made children morbidly obese and caused people to shun the outside world, at least according to their theories. In reality, video games are an entertaining, sometimes time-consuming hobby that falls somewhere between watching TV and reading books. Believe it or not, there is some good associated with parking yourself in front your favorite console each day. Perhaps you've experienced some of the following health benefits — and, even if you haven't, you can show them to your significant other to convince her/him that you haven't really been wasting massive amounts of time.

1. They comfort people with depression

   As with any mind-consuming activity that you thoroughly enjoy, gaming can serve as somewhat of an antidepressant. In the case of Bejeweled, a puzzle game in which players move gems into rows based on their colors, a study indicated that participants experience improved mood and heart rhythm from a session of play. Essentially, it helps people unwind and relax as if they're working on a crossword puzzle — something that certainly isn't viewed as an unhealthy activity.

2. They improve dexterity

   A study conducted by psychologists at the University of Rochester found that video game-playing surgical residents and surgeons who were tasked with performing a procedure were 24% faster, made 32% fewer errors and scored 26% better overall. Those percentages were even higher for those who played game in the past for more than three hours. The findings could open the door to training potential surgeons and scientists from an early age. Having surgery soon? You'll be better off if your surgeon is a gamer — imagine that.

3. They improve your eyesight

   Forget LASIK eye surgery — you can spend $60 on a video game and experience improvement in your vision. According to researchers at the University of Rochester, people who played action video games for a month were able to identify letters presented in clutter 20% better than before. Incredibly, results were shown after just 30 hours of play. When you play action games, your vision is tested to its limit, and the brain adjusts accordingly. The human body is pretty neat.

4. They improve social skills

   Gamers have been unfairly stereotyped through the years as socially inept, significant-other-less freaks who dwell in their parents' basements. The fact of the matter, given the sheer popularity of gaming, is that a variety of individuals with varying personalities compose the gaming community. As it turns out, World of Warcraft, a game that requires players to be social, teaches leadership and conflict resolution skills, according to a Swedish researcher. Although fans of the game may be viewed as cult-like, they're actually strengthening their ability to function in the outside world.

5. They improve knowledge retention

   Video games can be used for the specific purpose of advancing learning. A study conducted at the University of Kansas found they can impart specific knowledge. Researchers administered tests to three different groups, one of which prepared using a PowerPoint lecture and two of which prepared using a video game. Of course, the latter two groups demonstrated better knowledge retention. The advantage of using video games in this case may have been the mere fact that it requires active engagement of the mind, as opposed to almost thoughtlessly looking over slides.

6. They increase response time

   Amazing work is being done at the University of Rochester. In another much-welcomed study, researchers found that video games can provide a training regimen that increases visual reaction times while maintaining accuracy. Certain games require quick processing of sensory information, an activity that can be mastered with practice. If you're a fan of Halo or Call of Duty, take note — those skills could prove useful in other nonviolent endeavors.

7. They reduce stress

   Not only do video games serve as a distraction, but they can fight anger. Researchers at Texas A&M University found that playing violent video games, such as Call of Duty 2, gave players an outlet in which to take out their aggression, contradicting the numerous studies that have indicated the opposite. Thinking of going postal? Play Playstation instead.

8. They improve self esteem

   It always feels good to crush your opponent in Madden, which naturally makes you feel better about yourself. But did you know there have been games designed for the specific purpose of improving your self esteem? McGill University researchers focused on encouraging positive thoughts and positive attitudes in an effort to remove negative thought patterns. Of course, developing self-esteem is a bit more complex than just playing a video game, but it provides a good start for patterning behavior.

9. They actually help you exercise and lose weight

   One of the most obvious health benefits of modern gaming is physical, thanks to the creation of Wii and its exergaming offerings. The International Sports Sciences Association confirmed that such games are effective at getting kids off the couch and increasing their heart rates, a far cry from the stereotype that all gamers are obese oafs. Seniors seeking gentler exercise can play Wii fit, for example, to maintain their health, which is why many senior residences contain the gaming system.

10. They relieve pain

    Perhaps pain really is all in the mind. Once again, the key word is "distraction" here, as participating in games can take a player's mind off of their ailment, according to researchers at Emory University. It's most effective using virtual reality, which can transport a player into an entirely different virtual world. This type of therapy has been used with real patients, including those who've endured significant trauma. What's more, there are no side effects — beats the heck out of a lot of medications.

Over the years, Saturday Night Live has produced some hilarious sketches and characters. But some of the show's funniest moments, especially in recent seasons, have come from their commercials for fake products. Many of the ads are for items you would never want to use, like Bad Idea Jeans or BabySpanx, but some of the ideas are actually pretty good even if they are a bit silly. If these nine products were real, we would definitely buy them.

1. Damn It, My Mom Is On Facebook filter

   If Mark Zuckerberg would let Facebook users buy this filter, he'd be a millionaire. Well, he'd be even more of a millionaire. The current Facebook privacy settings have nothing on the Damn It, My Mom Is On Facebook filter. This filter helps keep your statuses, photos, and wall mom-friendly while letting you post whatever you want. Damn It, My Mom Is On Facebook seems like a legitimate, real-world solution to the growing problem of parents jumping on the social networking site, embarrassing their children, and discovering their kids' disappointing life choices. It will edit any references to drugs, alcohol, or sex so that you can keep your mother/child relationship intact.

2. Duncan Hines Brownie Husband

   It may be a stereotype that single women are lonely and fill the void in their lives with chocolate, but stereotypes are based at least a little bit on truth. The Brownie Husband would have a sizeable market in cat ladies alone if it were introduced in reality, and people outside of its target audience would probably be interested after a particularly tough day. Not only does the Brownie Husband have a handsome fudge face, but he heats up in 90 seconds in the microwave and is filled with delicious warm caramel. Maybe we wouldn't eat Brownie Husband in bed, but it'd be good for a dinner party, bridal shower, or quiet nights watching movies on the couch. If it's good enough for Tina Fey, it's good enough for the rest of us.

3. Old Glory Insurance

   There's nothing more terrifying to humans today than the idea of a robot takeover. We'd probably rather die at the hands of zombies than robots; at least zombies used to be people. That's why Old Glory Insurance is so tempting. Most insurance policies these days don't cover the possibility of robot attacks, so the only way to be fully prepared for the future that we've seen in totally believable movies like I, Robot and Terminator 4 is to buy something like Old Glory Insurance. Though Saturday Night Live promotes the product as something for old people because their medication attracts the 'bots, we think it'd be a wise investment for anyone living in the 21st century. If Old Glory would cover both robot and zombie attacks, their business would skyrocket.

4. Bug Off

   This product is slightly cruel, but if you've ever had a roach problem in your house or apartment, you'll see how entirely necessary it is to give your pests something to think about. Bug Off catches the roach in glue, rips off its legs with tiny tweezers and then beats the roach with them. As the roach goes through more and more torture, the viewing window allows you to watch to make sure Bug Off's getting the job done. While regular bug sprays or poisons just kill the bug, this is the kind of product that sends a message to all roaches letting them know that you mean business and they better stay off your property. We probably wouldn't use this on our first attempt to get rid of bugs, but if the problem is persistent and annoying enough, this is the most satisfying option.

5. Nelson's Baby Toupees

   People will try to tell you that there's no such thing as an ugly baby, but that just isn't true. Babies come in all shapes and sizes, and some of those shapes and sizes aren't very cute. Being bald only adds to the problem. But there's nothing more adorable than a baby dressed up like an adult. These baby toupees would be the perfect accessory for a Halloween costume, a good look for a photo shoot, or a funny pick-me-up for sleep-deprived parents. Whether you have an ugly baby or not, no one will be able to see past the precious wig on its head. You could even be starting off a prosperous career for your baby as a Donald Trump impersonator.

6. Bathroom Monkey

   The Bathroom Monkey is a live monkey that keeps your bathroom clean for up to eight months. Maybe some of the details of this product need to be worked out in order to satisfy PETA, but overall, this seems like an item that every household needs. Monkeys have been trained to fly in space and pick pockets, so it's pretty reasonable to assume that they could be taught to clean a bathroom. It would be like a pet that pitches in with the housework. If the makers could come up with a better way of disposing the used product and cut down the working hours of the monkey, the Bathroom Monkey would have a real chance of surviving in the marketplace and hopefully your bathroom.

7. Dissing Your Dog training videos

   Some people don't have the right personality to discipline a dog during the training process. You have to assert a certain amount of straightforward authority in traditional training programs, so for the more passive-aggressive type of dog owner, these methods are normally ineffective. That's why the Dissing Your Dog videos would be such a great alternative in the real world. By using sarcasm and insults against your puppy, it'll learn how to behave and will probably feel more like your friend, since you probably treat your human buddies the same way. If it really works, it'd be a fun method to try on children, too.

8. Taco Town

   It's hard to believe that a restaurant or state fair doesn't already sell something like the taco at Taco Town. To be more exact, it's Taco Town's pizza crepe taco pancake chili bag, but that's a ridiculous name for such a sophisticated meal. Its delicious overindulgence is the kind of thing everyone should try at least once. Though it's probably not wise to make a habit of ordering this taco, every once in a while, you've got to forget the diet and live a little. As it wraps together Italian, Mexican, French, and American cuisine, the taco is representative of the U.S. melting pot. Or the U.S. multi-layer taco, if you're looking for a more precise metaphor.

9. Einstein Express

   This could be the least greedy and most practical use of time travel anyone's thought of. Einstein Express allows you to send a package back in time to the day when you should've taken it to the post office or UPS store. As we can see in the commercial, the service has many different uses, such as sending contraceptives into the past to prevent unplanned pregnancies. The possibilities are endless and would probably keep you out of a lot of trouble at work or in your personal life. A similar SNL service called Jiffy Express isn't quite as effective since a time machine isn't involved, but the company offers to put fake shipping dates on your package and fabricate shipping delays to explain why a parcel didn't arrive on time, taking the blame for your tardiness.

The newly released series of interviews with former first lady Jacqueline Kennedy have stirred up quite the controversy and excitement for listeners who want to get a glimpse of what life was like in the White House for the Kennedys. The audiotapes are from the 1964 interviews with historian and former White House aide Arthur Schlesinger Jr., just months after President John F. Kennedy was assassinated. These sensitive recordings were under lock and key at the Kennedy Library in Boston and weren't supposed to be released until 50 years after Jackie passed away. But in order to get ABC to drop its drama series about the Kennedy family, Jackie's daughter, Caroline Kennedy, agreed to release the tapes earlier than expected. Here are 10 shocking revelations from the Jackie O. tapes:

1. Jackie believed LBJ was behind JFK's assassination

   One of the most shocking revelations from the Jackie O. tapes was that she thought Vice President Lyndon B. Johnson was responsible for her husband's death. Mrs. Kennedy believed LBJ was at the heart of the plot to kill the president, and he was joined by a group of Texas businessmen and gunman Lee Harvey Oswald. Jackie suspected that LBJ had his own agenda about being vice president and was only taking the position to undue his problems in the Senate.

2. Jackie had her own affairs

   The tapes reveal that Jackie had a few shocking infidelities of her own. The former first lady admitted to having an affair with Hollywood star William Holden and Fiat founder Gianni Agnelli while married to the president. Mrs. Kennedy got revenge for her husband's many flings, but noted that weeks before JFK's assassination the couple had turned a new leaf and were planning on having more children.

3. Jackie was not a fan of Martin Luther King Jr.

   Mrs. Kennedy made it clear in the audiotapes that she did not like Martin Luther King Jr. for many reasons. The former first lady called King a "phony" and a "terrible man" because he was also engaged in extramarital affairs. According to FBI director J. Edgar Hoover, the civil rights leader was secretly recorded trying to arrange a sex party while in DC for the March on Washington. Hoover also told Jackie that King was bragging about being drunk at JFK's funeral, and snickered about how they almost dropped his coffin. None of these claims have been confirmed, but Jackie's daughter, Caroline Kennedy, expressed that this information was manipulated by Hoover and was part of the FBI's smear campaign against MLK.

4. The Kennedys had an old-fashioned relationship

   Mrs. Kennedy revealed that she and her husband had an old-fashioned marriage, and described it as "a rather terribly Victorian or Asiatic relationship." She also admitted to getting all of her opinions from her husband, which were often directed at people who had issues with the Kennedy administration. Jackie felt like her role as a mother and wife was to create "a climate of affection and comfort and detente," she said.

5. Jackie thought women should stay out of politics

   One of the most shocking revelations from the tapes were of Mrs. Kennedy sharing her thoughts on women in politics. Despite the fact that Jackie was portrayed as a cultured, wise and progressive thinker, she did not feel women had a place in politics because they're "just not suited to it," she said. Jackie said she worried about "emotional" women entering politics and was humored by "violently liberal women" who disliked JFK and sided with his competitor, Adlai Stevenson. She also shared her true feelings about the former Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, describing her as a "prune bitter, kind of pushy, horrible woman."

6. Jackie knew of JFK's womanizing

   The audiotapes reveal that Mrs. Kennedy was well aware of her husband's adulterous acts, especially his White House intern flings. Jackie suggested that the president was having an affair with a 19-year-old White House intern after finding underwear in their bedroom. She said the first adulterous act as president happened on the night of the inauguration when she went to bed early.

7. Mrs. Kennedy loathed the French

   Despite the fact that Mrs. Kennedy was known for wearing French clothing and speaking the language fluently, she apparently had a deep-seeded hatred for the French. According to the Jackie O. tapes, the former first lady said she "loathed" the French and "they are not very nice, they are all for themselves." Even her onetime hero French President Charles de Gaulle failed to impress Mrs. Kennedy upon meeting each other. In the tapes, she refers to de Gaulle as an "egomaniac" and "spiteful man."

8. President Kennedy cried during the Bay of Pigs and Cuban missile crisis

   During the recordings, Jackie revealed a softer side of JFK that many didn't know or see. She recalled the president crying in their bedroom during the Bay of Pigs and Cuban missile crisis. In the event of a potential nuclear war, Jackie pleaded with JFK to not send her and the children to Camp David and to let them stay at the White House with him. Mrs. Kennedy said she told the president, "I just want to be with you, and I want to die with you, and the children do, too – than live without you."

9. JFK feared an LBJ presidency

   Jackie shared the shocking revelation that JFK was strongly opposed to Lyndon B. Johnson ever becoming president. Even though LBJ was her husband's presidential running mate, she had very few positive things to say about the vice president, describing him as an uninspired drinker. Jackie said JFK didn't believe the vice president would be fit for the role as commander in chief because he felt he "could never get an opinion out of Lyndon at any cabinet or national security meeting," she said. Jackie also expressed that LBJ seemed more interested in "the panoply that goes with power, but none of the responsibility."

10. JFK was a ritualistic and religious man

    The tapes exposed JFK's personal life as a ritualistic and religious man. She said the president would change into his pajamas and take a 45-minute nap every day. Jackie shared that the president would say his prayers kneeling on the edge of the bed every night and would attend church, but still had his doubts about faith.

Even if you love your car like one of your own children, there's going to come a time when you need a new vehicle. While it's hard to let a member of the family go, you have to decide what you're going to do with the old one. If you decide to trade your car in at a dealership, you may not be happy with the money you get. Selling it yourself may seem overwhelming, but you're much more likely to get a price that lines up with your expectations if you take on the challenge. Here are 10 things you need to do before making a deal and handing the keys over to a new owner.

1. Get it detailed

   Just like you would dress up for a job interview, it's important that your car looks clean and taken care of when a potential buyer looks at it. A car wash and waxing is essential, along with removing any trash or clutter inside the vehicle. It's a smart idea to get the car detailed, whether you do it yourself or get a professional to do it quickly. If you do it on your own, it may be a dirty, time-consuming job, but you'll save yourself a chunk of money. A professional detailing can range from $60 to a couple hundred dollars, depending on the services you request. You should also remove any window or bumper stickers you have, because the personalization makes it harder for the buyer to picture the car as their own. The benefit of spending the time or money, though, is that you could get hundreds of dollars more from the sale just by making your vehicle look good.

2. Get a tuneup

   A car tuneup ensures that all the systems in your car, like the ignition, fuel, and computer systems, are working together properly. If any belts or filters are old or worn, these will also be replaced during a tuneup. It's a positive thing to be able to tell any potential buyers that you've recently had the car serviced, since they'll know that there aren't any problems they'll have to take care of right away. If the mechanic finds any problems, you can choose to get them fixed or factor them into your negotiations with buyers. Informing a buyer of a small problem makes you look credible and lets you keep the power in the negotiation. A professional tuneup can cost as little as $50, but goes up if you need new parts or extra labor. If you're handy, you could tune the car up yourself, but make sure you know what you're looking for.

3. Find out how much your car is worth

   Obviously you want to make a lot of money off of your car, and you might think it's worth a pretty penny since you've made so many fond memories in it. But if you ask an outrageously high amount, buyers aren't going to bite and you'll be stuck with your car of memories for a long time. Do a little research before setting your expectations so that your asking price is reasonable for both you and potential buyers. Many websites, like Kelley Blue Book, can help you determine the market value of your vehicle. If you trade your car in at a dealership, be prepared to accept less than the market value, since the dealer wants to make a profit when they sell your used car. If you're negotiating with buyers yourself, keep in mind any cosmetic damage to your car, as well as needed repairs. And don't expect to get away with exaggerating the price; buyers can also use these sites to find out the fair resale value of your vehicle.

4. Make an advertisement

   There are several options for advertising your used vehicle, the easiest of which is to write "For Sale" and your phone number on your back windshield with shoe polish. But you'll also probably want to put your advertisement in a place where people search when looking to buy a vehicle. This guarantees that your car will be seen by at least some of the right people. Put an ad in your local newspaper's classified section or on an online car-buying site, which will cost you a little bit but will help you reach a much wider customer pool. Keep in mind some basic guidelines when writing your ad: use several good photos, be honest, and follow the format traditionally used in ads. You should also research what times of the week are best to get more attention, such as the weekend when more people buy newspapers.

5. Settle the finance

   It's illegal to sell a car that is still on finance. If you have outstanding car payments, your car can be repossessed, and if you've sold the car, it can be repossessed from the new owner and you will end up in court. In order to settle the finance on your car, contact the finance company and discuss your options. They may give you permission to transfer the outstanding finance to the buyer or they may tell you that you have to settle it. If you don't have the funds available and you feel like you have to sell the car now, you can try to take out a personal loan to cover the balance and then repay the loan when you are paid by the buyer for the car.

1. Get a vehicle history report

   You've probably seen the commercials for CarFax or AutoCheck vehicle history reports and thought they were only useful for buyers, but getting one as a seller can be just as valuable. Getting a vehicle history report and providing a copy to any potential buyers will assure them that you're not hiding anything and that the car is in good condition. It also gives you the opportunity to prepare for any less-than-stellar news that shows up on it since many potential buyers will probably get their own report and ask you questions about it. If you know ahead of time about your car's history, you can anticipate the concerns a buyer will have and come up with an answer. Most vehicle history reports include whether the car's been in an accident and what kind of damage was caused, whether there are problems with the odometer, whether the vehicle's been branded as a lemon, and more.

2. Prepare to meet potential buyers

   Not only will you want to be able to answer any questions a buyer might ask you, but you'll also want to make sure the buyer is someone you want to do business with. This starts with the first phone call. You may be eager to get the car off your hands, but if you're willing to meet anyone who calls, you could be risking your safety. When talking to a potential taker on the phone, make sure you listen for any warning signs, like someone who isn't willing to tell you who will be coming along on the test drive or who doesn't want to bring their driver's license. Trust your gut and hang up on anyone who raises any red flags. Even if you feel good about a buyer, choose a meeting location that's in a public place and at a time of day that you'll both be comfortable with.

3. Have a safe test drive

   Before letting someone drive your car, call up your insurance provider and make sure they cover test drives, just to be safe. You don't want to wreck the car you're trying to get rid of. When you do meet up with the prospective buyer for a test drive, bring someone else along. If the buyer was thinking of trying to scam you or harm you, he'll be less likely to do it if there's someone else present. Ask to see the person's driver's license before you let him drive your car, copy down the information, and keep it until your business with him is done. Always accompany the person on the test drive, have them drive you through populated areas, and never leave the key in the car, even if you're just switching seats.

4. Learn to negotiate

   You'll definitely want to know some negotiation tricks before facing a potential buyer. When you set your asking price, you should build in a little room for haggling, since it's highly unlikely that you'll get the full price you wanted. By having some wiggle room, you and the buyer can both walk away happy. But even though you're prepared to go lower, never quote your lowest price to a potential buyer. They may use this as the starting point for negotiations rather than your bottom price. There are all kinds of negotiating tips on the Internet, but the best thing to keep in mind is to stay calm and not to rush into any deals that you may not be comfortable with. There will always be other buyers, so don't sell yourself short.

5. Know how to finalize the sale

   Once you've settled on a price and the buyer is prepared to pay you, you'll probably want to hand the car over as soon as possible. Knowing your state's rules on the sale of motor vehicles ahead of time will limit the complications when you're in the middle of closing the deal. Check out your state's DMV website for details. You should also consider getting a release-of-liability form so that the liability transfers to the buyer as soon as you sign the papers (in case they get in a wreck as they drive away from you) and a sellers contract so you both have proof of the sale.

For the most part, auto repair workers are highly skilled individuals who work hard to fix your car problems in the most efficient way possible. Nevertheless, there are certainly some auto repair workers who are out there to rip people off and take advantage of uninformed customers. Even the most trusted and raved-about auto shops could be overcharging for repairs, deceiving customers with advertisements and putting your safety at risk. The best way to avoid getting duped at your next oil change or tune-up is to do your homework and be on the lookout for these 10 dirty tricks used by auto repair workers.

1. Performing spit-shine fixes

   One of the dirtiest tricks used by auto repair shops is the spit-shine fix, in which the mechanic will tell you that a part needs to be replaced, whether it really does or not, and instead of actually installing a new part they’ll just give the old one a new cleaning and put it back in your car. Auto repair workers may even tell you that they replaced the part with a refurbished one when they never actually removed the original. To protect yourself from this sneaky and illegal scam, try marking the car part that needs to be replaced with a chalk mark or dot of paper correction fluid. After the repair, ask to see your old part and look for your marking to verify that it’s the original.

2. Repair estimate scams

   Repair estimate scams happen when mechanics give customers a verbal estimate of the cost of repairs and then charge a higher price than previously discussed. Essentially, the verbal quote means nothing unless it has also been written on the repair authorization that you sign. Some auto repair shops will ask the customer to sign the repair authorization documents without filling in an estimated amount for repairs. In some cases, mechanics may find additional problems as they are working on a vehicle, but they should communicate this to you before going forth with an unauthorized repair. The lesson here is to always get a written estimate for repairs from the auto shop before signing or agreeing to any service.

3. Padding the bill

   Auto repair workers have been known to pad the bill with unnecessary repairs and parts in order to make the total cost higher. It happens every day — a customer brings in a vehicle for a routine oil change and leaves with a new air filter, tire rotation, fluid flush and other expensive parts or car problems they weren’t expecting. In order to protect yourself from this dirty trick, ask the mechanic what needs to be repaired and have him physically show you the problem area. Ask about the urgency of the repair and if the work can be prioritized. To be on the safe side, go get a second opinion and another estimate.

4. Doing needless repairs

   One of the most common tricks auto repair workers pull on customers is recommending needless repairs. We want to trust our mechanics and hope that their recommendations are justified, but the truth is you may not need the repairs right now or at all. In an effort to pad the bill, auto repair workers will recommend expensive and unnecessary repairs or services to customers who will buy into their scam. Whether or not they plan to actually repair the supposedly problematic part, customers should always ask the mechanic to show them the problem and do their own research before authorizing any repair work. Get a second opinion and take every precaution to avoid being ripped off.

5. Using counterfeit car parts

   A growing concern in the United States is the sale and distribution of counterfeit car parts. Phony parts that don’t fit or work properly have made their way into many auto shops across the country and are being installed in customers’ cars. Although counterfeit parts are not always easily detected, some auto shops are knowingly using and charging full price for bad parts, while putting the customers’ safety at risk. Not only is the use of counterfeit parts highly illegal, but it also speaks volumes about the kind of business ethics and customer care the shop lacks. Customers can protect themselves by going to a state-registered repair shop and performing a background check on the business to make sure it’s in good standing with the Better Business Bureau.

6. Waiving the deductible

   In recent years, more auto repair shops have started waiving customers’ insurance deductibles in hopes of bringing in more business. The shop is legally able to do this, but customers should be aware of the tricks behind this transaction. It is not legal for auto shops to estimate higher on the repair to cover the deductible because it increases the total cost that the insurance company has to pay. If it’s a preferred auto shop, then the insurance company will most likely expect the shop to accept the deductible. Customers should be cautious before going to a repair shop that discounts or waives the insurance deductible because it’s possible that the shop will cheat your insurance company or you out of a lot of money. Always check with your insurance policy to determine if a deductible is required before authorizing any repair work.

7. Using maintenance hook schemes

   Auto repair workers have been known to advertise free or discounted services such as tune-ups, oil changes and tire rotations, with the intention that you’ll come in for the deal and will leave with more expensive maintenance services. This kind of marketing has a way of hooking in customers and putting them at risk for additional costs. Auto repair workers will claim to have discovered other problems while working on your car and suggest further service. Some might even cause intentional damage to your car so that you’re pressured into fixing the problem right away. To avoid falling into this trap, only get the services you came in the shop for and always get a second opinion before agreeing to further repairs.

8. Overcharging for labor

   Labor makes up a large portion of your auto repair costs. The labor charges depend on the kind of shop you go to and their per-hour labor rate and “book time.” According to AOL Autos, the nationwide labor rates generally run from $80 to $150 per hour. Although most repair shops aim to meet their “book time,” which is the average time it takes to perform certain car repairs or maintenance services, there are many auto repair workers who purposely waste time to increase the cost of the overall repair. They may take a long time to diagnose the problem, install unnecessary parts and take longer than necessary to fix the issue. To avoid this dirty trick, be sure to hold the shop to its written agreement on labor rate costs and “book time.”

9. Sneaking in added costs

   Just like dealers try to sneak in additional fees to the total cost of the car, so do auto repair workers. Shops have been known to advertise or tell customers that it provides free towing or free rental cars at the time of repair and then requires payment for these costs. Auto shops also use deceiving tactics like failing to disclose reassembly or inspection charges before starting work on the car and leaving you with a more expensive bill. This dirty practice happens every day, but the good news is that it’s completely avoidable. Before you authorize repair work or accept “free” towing or rental car services, be certain that every cost is identified and clearly explained in a written estimate form.

10. Charging for warranty work

    A common trick used by auto repair workers is telling you that the shop will provide repair services in accordance with your warranty, but still charging you for the work covered by the warranty. Auto shops may justify charging you for the repairs if you haven’t done your homework first. Before you authorize any repairs, it’s crucial that you make sure the auto shop honors your vehicle’s existing warranty. You should also verify and get in writing what exactly is covered under your warranty and learn about your warranty rights beforehand. Doing your research ahead of time will keep you from paying for parts and labor that are covered by your manufacturers or extended warranty.

 
A movie can go wrong at just about any point in production, but there’s no error quite as noticeable as bad casting. The dialogue, costumes, and atmosphere can totally line up, but if you’ve got the wrong person in a key role, the magic just isn’t there. Sometimes it’s just a little off — George Clooney was a pretty awkward Batman, but then, Batman & Robin had much bigger problems — but other times it’s enough to totally derail every scene in which the miscast actor appears, or even sink the entire movie. These are the roles that made the biggest mistakes, lost the biggest gambles, and proved just how awful things can get.

1. Sofia Coppola as Mary Corleone, The Godfather: Part III

   There was no way The Godfather: Part III could ever have hoped to live up to the first two films, which are some of the best American movies ever made. Even so, Francis Ford Coppola dropped the ball in a major way by casting his daughter as Mary Corleone, daughter of the aging Michael (Al Pacino). Winona Ryder was set to play the role but dropped out, leaving the spot open for Sofia, who was lambasted by critics for her clunky performance. The film was never going to be a game-changer like its predecessors, but it had a shot at being a whole lot better with a more confident actress in such a pivotal role.

2. Kate Bosworth as Lois Lane, Superman Returns

   Bryan Singer’s loving homage to Richard Donner had plenty of good moments, but the choice of Kate Bosworth as Lois Lane was a total tonal misfire. It’s understandable to want to cast pretty young things in a modern superhero movie; after all, Brandon Routh was just 25 when production began and he donned the blue tights and red cape to play the Man of Steel. But Bosworth was even younger, and it showed, which made the whole casting decision too curious to ignore. She was only 22 when filming began, yet the Lois Lane of the film has a 5-year-old son. Bosworth didn’t look old enough to have paid back her student loans, much less have a 5-year-old, and it doesn’t feel right to imagine Superman hooking up with a 17-year-old. She was a nice enough presence, but far too young and weak for the role. In the upcoming Man of Steel, set for release in 2013, Amy Adams will take over the role. She’s got a decade on Bosworth, which is a good sign.

3. John Wayne as Genghis Khan, The Conqueror

   The 1950s and ’60s were the peak of a very awkward time for Hollywood: Still clinging to a fading studio system and unwilling to do anything remotely progressive, many movies used white actors to play characters of different ethnicities and backgrounds. As a result, you get monstrosities like 1956′s The Conqueror, in which John Wayne — as American as can be — plays Mongol warrior and emperor Genghis Khan. The racial insensitivies here can’t be overstated: Wayne’s a swaggering, drawling, empty-headed hero in a movie that deserved to be so much more interesting and honest. Images of him as Khan are hardly flattering to anyone, either. It’s a classic cast of racist miscasting thanks to bigoted mindsets. In a sad postscript, though, the film wound up harming Wayne more than he could have guessed. Exteriors were shot in Utah downwind of the Nevada test site where the government had worked out the kinks in its nuclear weapons, and some of the ground was even transported back to the studio to re-create the look for further shooting. Wayne, though also a heavy smoker, died of cancer in 1979, and Conqueror director Dick Powell died of cancer months after the film wrapped. Of the 220 cast and crew, 91 developed cancer.

4. Denise Richards as Dr. Christmas Jones, The World Is Not Enough

   James Bond movies have never really been serious, but that’s not to say they aren’t smart, entertaining rides. However, the series got a little too bloated in the 1990s and early 2000s, eventually requiring a new Bond and stylistic reboot with Casino Royale. The 1999 entry, The World Is Not Enough, is a good example of how the franchise went crazy. Denise Richards co-stars as Dr. Christmas Jones — every part of that name is true, seriously — a nuclear physicist who helps James Bond save the world in some generic way. Even by Bond Girl standards, Richards is wooden and forgettable, and plays a scientist about as convincingly as you’d expect from the star of Wild Things. Her name was chosen just to set up one of the worst sexual puns in James Bond history. From top to bottom, she just shouldn’t be there.

5. Charlton Heston as Miguel Vargas, Touch of Evil

   Charlton Heston played outside his ethnicity more than once — 1961′s El Cid has him playing a Spanish military leader c. 1050 AD — but it’s 1958′s Touch of Evil that really bends the rules and breaks the illusion. Heston plays Miguel Vargas, a Mexican official in drug enforcement, and he couldn’t look or sound any more like plain old Charlton Heston with a bad mustache. Heston was a compelling actor but only within a certain range, and not even a performer of his strength could overcome the awkwardness of having a white guy from Illinois play a Mexican drug agent.

6. Keanu Reeves as Jonathan Harker, Bram Stoker’s Dracula

   Keanu Reeves gets a lot of grief, but he’s actually been an ideal fit for his biggest roles: the blank slate of Neo in The Matrix, the stripped-down action hero of Speed, etc. Basically anything that stays pretty simple and superficial and doesn’t require an overabundance of emoting. Sadly, he wasn’t up the challenge for Francis Ford Coppola’s atmospheric and gorgeous take on the Dracula legend, and just about every one of his scenes feels stagey and uncomfortable. (Not to mention the fact that Reeves’ throaty dialect has a hard time grasping British pronunciations.) The movie’s got some fantastic moments; Reeves isn’t in any of them.

7. Mickey Rooney as I.Y. Yunioshi, Breakfast at Tiffany’s

   Another staggeringly awful race mistake. When bringing Truman Capote’s novel to the screen, director Blake Edwards cast Mickey Rooney as Mr. Yunioshi, a Japanese neighbor to heroine Holly Golightly (Audrey Hepburn). Rooney is, well, extremely not Japanese. But rather than cast someone else or at least play it low-key, Rooney appears in the film with heavy make-up and a mouthpiece to turn him into a horrifyingly racist cartoon. It was an awful choice born of 1960s stereotypes and a wildly bad sense of what was actually funny. Although producers have since apologized for the role, Rooney stands by his performance, saying he would never intentionally offend “any person, be they black, Asian or whatever.” So, um, there’s that.

8. Hayden Christensen as Anakin Skywalker, Star Wars: Episode II — Attack of the Clones and Star Wars: Episode III — Revenge of the Sith

   It’s unfair to put too much of the blame for the Star Wars prequels on Hayden Christensen. George Lucas wrote and directed some pretty boring movies, and it’s not like Christensen got to call the shots. He just showed up and tried his best. Unfortunately, his best was so astronomically bad that the movies took on new levels of infamy. He’s whiny and mealy-mouthed, unable to make the character remotely likeable or interesting, which means there’s no real reason to care when he starts misbehaving and going all Vadery on baby Jedi and innocent aliens. He’s cowardly instead of vulnerable, and petulant when he should be conflicted. He just doesn’t work.

9. Halle Berry as Catwoman, Catwoman

   Making a Catwoman movie that doesn’t have anything to do with the Batman universe is strike one; casting Halle Berry is strikes two, three, and the end of the ballgame. She gives a performance that’s almost daringly bad, bouncing from hysteria to weird psycho-sexual pandering at will. The role and movie were so mismanaged that Catwoman picked up a slew of Razzies that year, including Worst Picture, Actress, Screenplay, and Director.

10. Kevin Costner as Robin Hood, Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves

    Robin Hood: British. Kevin Costner: not British. More than that, he’s terrible at pretending to be British. He doesn’t even bother with an English accent for the role, which makes him a bad Robin Hood and a lazy actor. The film’s actually got a few other bad casting decisions, notably a ranty Christian Slater as Will Scarlett, but it’s Costner’s bland Robin Hood that really ruins the mood. He should’ve stuck to baseball.

As MTV celebrates its 30th birthday this week, we can’t help but wonder where all the music videos have gone. When MTV launched on Aug. 1, 1981, it became the first channel to showcase music videos and popularize the concept of a video jockey (VJ). The network pioneered this form of entertainment and pop culture art while adding new programs, concerts and award shows to the mix. MTV began shifting gears with the rise of the Internet and popularity of reality programming and started playing fewer music videos. Today, MTV has very little to do with music and is completely saturated with reality shows. There’s no doubt that we’ll always cherish the almighty music video, but we’ll never forget these 10 terrible things MTV gave the world:

1. TRL

   Total Request Live, also known as TRL, was a popular video countdown program that ran from 1998 to 2008. TRL featured the top 10 most requested music videos of the day by viewers, which mostly consisted of squeaky clean boy bands and pop divas. TRL became MTV’s only outlet for music videos as the network focused on creating reality TV programs, but people grew tired of the screaming teenagers and barely played music videos.

2. Teen Mom and 16 and Pregnant

   Both shows chronicle the lives of pregnant teenagers as they prepare for the hard work of single mothering. MTV cameras capture every personal struggle and difficult adult decision these girls have to make, with hopes that it will make teens think twice before having unprotected sex; however, the show has instead glamorized teen pregnancy and made shameful examples of the young women featured on TV.

3. Jersey Shore

   The Italian community (and much of America) have never been more offended than when MTV gave four guidos and four guidettes their own show about life on the Jersey Shore. The wildly popular reality show has no real plot and is strung together by countless hook-ups, fights and drunken nights. As the Jersey Shore cast approaches its fourth season in Florence, Italy, we’re sure to see more scandal and six-packs than we bargained for.

4. Newlyweds: Nick and Jessica

   Newlyweds was a reality series that followed singers Jessica Simpson and Nick Lachey as they began their lives as newlyweds. It didn’t take long for viewers to see the “real” Jessica Simpson that burped, farted and had countless blonde moments, such as wondering if Chicken of the Sea was actually tuna and pronouncing platypus as “platamapus.” Despite how loveable Nick and Jessica were on screen, the reality show obviously took a toll on their marriage, and they were divorced shortly after the third season.

5. Laguna Beach: The Real Orange County

   Laguna Beach documented the glamorous lives of teenagers living in the affluent Southern California town and their constant run-ins with drama. Cameras followed high school seniors Lauren Conrad (LC), Lo, Kristin, Morgan, Stephen, Talan and Trey as they finish their senior year and live like wannabe rock stars. Laguna Beach may have run for two full seasons, but viewers still wonder if the show was real or not.

6. The Hills

   MTV wasn’t willing to let go of the Laguna Beach girls for long before creating
   the spinoff reality series, The Hills, which followed Lauren Conrad’s life in Los Angeles. The rather plotless series also showcased some fresh faces, with Audrina Patridge, Heidi Montag and the incredibly obnoxious Spencer Pratt. Even though The Hills received high ratings and years of success, it made viewers dumber with every cat fight.

7. MTV Cribs

   MTV Cribs took viewers on rare tours inside the houses and mansions of celebrities. Cribs exemplifies materialism at its finest. From the lavish décor and huge swimming pools to the extravagant collection of cars, or “whips” as they say on the show, Cribs had the ability to make the average American feel like a poor chump.

8. My Super Sweet 16

   My Super Sweet 16 showcases VERY privileged teens as they prepare for the biggest party of their youth – sweet 16. Watch as these not-so-sweet 16ers plan the most lavish bashes complete with over-the-top decorations, grand entrances and surprise celebrity performers, complements of Mom and Dad. But most viewers really tune in for the drama that ensues over the party planning and unveiling of the surprise car.

9. Paris Hilton’s My New BFF

   Paris Hilton’s My New BFF was a competitive reality show that featured a group of celebrity hanger-on wannabes as they fight to become Paris Hilton’s new “best friend forever.” The hotel heiress measures her potential BFFs on their level of loyalty, partying skills — and hotness, of course. If they fail to keep her entertained or can’t handle her party girl lifestyle, then it’s “TTYL” for these contestants.

10. A Shot at Love with Tila Tequila

    A Shot at Love with Tila Tequila was a dating show that featured 16 guys and 16 girls competing to win the heart of Internet sensation Tila Tequila. In order to get a shot at love, her suitors competed in ridiculous challenges to win one-on-one time with the self-proclaimed bisexual. Tequila’s battle of the sexes show came to an end after only two seasons, and she was replaced by bisexual twin women.

The U.S. higher education system has made tremendous strides toward achieving gender equality, but there are still several areas in which women exceed or fall short of their male counterpart. Historically, women have dominated majors like education, English and psychology, while men were more likely to study engineering, computer science or math. Although this may ring true at some schools, it isn’t the standard at every traditional or online college. More than ever, college women are opting to study traditionally male-dominated majors and are breaking enrollment records while they’re at it. As the line between male- and female-dominated academic fields continues to fade, there will be less segregation in the job market and more opportunities for both sexes. Here are 10 majors that are no longer male-dominated:

1. Computer science

   Men aren’t the only ones who’ve declared their love for computing and designing computer systems; women have also jumped on board by majoring in computer science. Many colleges nationwide have seen an increase in the number of female students majoring in this traditionally male-dominated field. In fact, Harvard reported a record high for female computer science majors in spring 2011, with women making up nearly half of the sophomore class. The increase in female computer science enrollment can be attributed to the growing demand for technology positions and a breakthrough in the way computer science is portrayed.

2. Business

   For many years, business programs seemed to attract more males than female students. However, there has been a significant increase in the number of women majoring in business and earning MBAs over the last few years. The increase of females at business colleges has a lot to do with the recession and the job opportunities now available to women. A business degree offers flexibility and prepares graduates to enter a wide variety of careers.

3. Engineering

   Engineering is one of the most male-dominated career fields in the country. A small percentage of women work in the field, but they continue to face a great deal of adversity. With that being said, there has been a notable increase in the number of female engineering majors throughout the U.S. For example, South Dakota State University has experienced an astonishing 43.5% increase in female enrollment in their College of Engineering during the last 10 years. This impressive growth can be attributed to a number of factors, including the weak economy and increased demand for engineers, as well as the field’s favorable salary outlook and improved recruiting efforts by colleges.

4. Agriculture

   Agriculture was once considered an all-male area of study, but that is no longer the trend at many American schools today. Female enrollment in agriculture colleges has continued to grow over the years as women learn the importance of agriculture and discover new job opportunities within the industry. Iowa State University has noted a significant increase in the number of women enrolled in their College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, with 1,535 females and 1,763 male students enrolled in 2010.

5. Biological sciences

   Biological sciences might have been a male-dominated area of study many years ago, but females have taken their place as the new face of biological sciences. Today, more women than men major in biological sciences. The growth has been linked to women’s tendency to study subjects that will help the greater good and make a difference in society. According to Forbes magazine, biological and biomedical sciences is the eighth most popular major for women.

6. Construction management

   From the labor to the management, the construction industry has long been dominated by men. But times are changing for the field of construction management and it’s starting at the academic level. More than ever, women are starting to major in construction management and leave their front-office construction jobs behind. The rise in female enrollment in construction management programs can be tied to the growing number of professional opportunities and career advancement options that are now available to women in the industry.

7. Fire science

   Just as more women have broken into the firefighting field, more are studying fire science to prepare for a career in fire service. An increase of females enrolled in fire science programs may be due to the fact that this degree gives prospective fire fighters a leg up in the job market and makes them more competitive applicants.

8. Criminal justice

   Men may have dominated the criminal justice field for decades, but that’s no longer the trend today. Many colleges have seen a significant increase in the number of females enrolled in criminal justice programs. Change isn’t just happening at the academic level either. Women have taken over a large percentage of criminal justice jobs, as well. This increase may be attributed to the growing demand for police and criminal justice services, as well as the positive employment and salary options now available to women.

9. Information technology

   Although the number of women majoring in information technology varies from school to school, many colleges have noted a significant increase in females within their IT programs. The increased number of female students studying information technology may be due to the growing demand for IT jobs and a growing emphasis on the importance of information technology.

10. Sports management

    Ever since sports management programs started popping up in American colleges, male students have dominated the major. But that’s no longer the case for many schools, which have seen an increase in the number of female students declaring sports management or another related field as their major. Over the last few years, women have started to recognize the exciting career opportunities that sports management offers them, and have decided to put their sports interests and business skills to good use by majoring in sports management.

Gay men and women have come a long way since the civil rights movement. Every decade marks a progression towards acceptance and equality, but there is still a great deal of change to come with continued education and advocacy. In honor of Gay Pride Month, here are 10 major milestones in the gay rights movement:

1. The Stonewall Rebellion: The 1969 Stonewall Rebellion was a significant moment in the early gay rights movement. A routine police raid at the Stonewall Inn, a New York City bar run by the Mafia and frequented by gays, turned very violent and, for the first time, they fought back. Following the attack, gay men and lesbians organized as a group to riot and began campaigning for their rights. The Stonewall Rebellion also paved the way for homosexuals to come out and gay pride had evolved.
2. The Mattachine Society: The Mattachine Society was the first national gay rights organization that helped protect and improve the rights of homosexuals. Harry Hay created the Chicago-based group in 1950, and in an effort to maintain their secrecy, he and his members adopted the cell structure of the Communist Party. Although the Mattachine Society expanded quickly and formed several branches across the country, the groups eventually went under because of political affiliations and more radical gay rights agendas.
3. Harvey Milk: Harvey Milk was more than just a politician; he was a gay rights pioneer. In 1977, Milk was elected to the San Francisco board of supervisors and became a voice for the gay community. Milk was the first openly gay man to be elected to public office in California, and he made civil rights for all people his main political focus. Milk helped bring social change to San Francisco and the rest of the country with his outspoken views and undying humanitarian efforts.
4. Massachusetts Recognizes Same-Sex Marriages: Massachusetts started the trend toward promoting marriage equality when it became the first U.S. state to recognize same-sex marriages in 2004. Since then, a handful of other states and one district have followed suit in recognizing the legality of same-sex marriage, including Iowa, Vermont, New Hampshire, Connecticut and the District of Columbia.
5. Wisconsin Outlaws Discrimination on the Basis of Sexual Orientation: In 1982, Wisconsin made it illegal to discriminate on the basis of sexual orientation. Since then, nineteen other states and one district have outlawed discrimination based on sexual orientation. In addition, the House of Representatives passed a bill in 2009 that made hate crimes based on sexual orientation, gender, disability, sexual orientation and gender identity punishable by federal law called the Matthew Shepard Act.
6. The House Approves a Bill Outlawing Workplace Discrimination Against Homosexuals: In 2007, the U.S. House of Representatives approved a bill that ensured broad protection against discrimination in the workplace for gay men, lesbians and bisexuals. The Employment Nondiscrimination Act was a major milestone in the gay rights movement and is considered one of the most important civil rights legislation since the 1990 Americans with Disabilities Act.
7. Overturning Proposition 8: Overturning Prop 8, California's anti-gay marriage initiative, was a monumental moment in the gay rights movement. On Aug. 4, 2010, Federal Judge Vaughn Walker declared it unconstitutional to ban same-sex marriages in California, and said the state had "no interest in differentiating between same-sex and opposite-sex unions." Walker also said Prop 8 violated the fundamental right to marry and the ban discriminated on the basis of gender and sexual orientation.
8. Obama Signs the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" Repeal Act: The United States "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" law has been a major blow to the gay rights movement, prohibiting gays from serving openly in the military. Since the 1993 ban has been in effect, thousands have been discharged for being openly homosexual. In 2010, the gay community reached another milestone when President Obama repealed the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" military ban that will no longer bar homosexuals from serving their country.
9. Defense of Marriage Act Declared Unconstitutional: In 2010, the Defense of Marriage Act was ruled unconstitutional, stating that same-sex couples deserve the same federal rights and benefits as lawfully married couples. Massachusetts Federal Judge Joseph Tauro said that the Defense of Marriage Act violates the state's rights in the tenth amendment. Since Massachusetts is one of the most progressive states for gay rights, other states may also follow suit.
10. Lawrence v. Texas: Lawrence v. Texas is a landmark U.S. Supreme Court case that ruled sodomy laws unconstitutional. The original Texas law prohibited sexual acts between same-sex couples but was declared unconstitutional in a 6-3 decision because it violated a person's right to privacy. The majority upheld the fundamental right for consenting adults to engage in private sexual conduct, which was protected under the liberty by the due process clause of the Fourteenth Amendment. The ruling was celebrated by gay rights activists and was an important moment in their movement.