Month: November 2023

Mikala Mikrut: A Vixen From Vegas


Text by Mikala Mikrut, Copyright 2023

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A Vixen From Vegas

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Photography, Tony Ward, Copyright 2023

Creative Director: KVaughn

Lighting Assistant: Anthony Colagreco

Hair & Makeup: Octavia Monroe

Behind The Scenes: Resyn Thomas

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What does it mean to be a vixen? At first glance, the term is simple: “a female fox.” It’s the literal definition, a word often associated with Trixie from The Fox and the Hound, perhaps chosen for its closeness to “vixen.” Yet, there’s another layer to this word, one that carries a nuanced weight. It refers to a spirited or fierce woman, one often seen as sexually attractive.

When Tony Ward approached me to be a part of his latest collection, which he aptly named The Vixen Series, I couldn’t help but question its significance. My initial association with the term was not particularly flattering, conjuring images of a manipulative seductress, taking advantage of others without remorse. However, Tony’s perspective on the term shifted my perception. A vixen, as he sees it, is not someone who exploits but someone who accepts the affection and adoration that others willingly offer. It’s a recognition of one’s own allure and power, a celebration of the capacity to evoke desire.

For me, being included in Tony Ward’s The Vixen Series wasn’t just an acknowledgment of my physical presence; it was a testament to the strength, intelligence, and heroism that define the diverse women he seeks to portray. To find myself considered in the same context as such inspiring figures was deeply humbling. Often, I grapple with feelings of inadequacy, wondering if I’m doing enough to justify my existence in this world. Tony’s invitation was a reassurance that my presence and contributions matter, a gentle nudge towards embracing my worth.

The journey with Tony and his team has been nothing short of enlightening. They have taught me to appreciate the beauty that surrounds us and to recognize the potential within myself. I am grateful for their friendship and guidance, and I only wish I could have extended my stay to absorb more of their wisdom.

The truth is, every one of us harbors a vixen within. It’s not just about being attractive or alluring; it’s about embracing the multifaceted qualities that make us uniquely powerful. Our inner vixen can be bold, perceptive, empathetic, or any blend of positive feminine traits. It’s about owning our strengths, sharing our wisdom, and empowering those around us. This experience has led me to ponder how others perceive me and how I might inspire them in turn. I believe we should all unapologetically embrace our inner vixens, radiating confidence and spreading empowerment wherever we go.

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To access more pictures from The Vixens Series link here: https://tonyward.com/new-work-the-vixens-series/

Bob Shell: My Continuing Publishing Saga

Female nude from the back side showing beautiful female with great ass and legs
Photo: Bob Shell, Copyright 2023

Text by Bob Shell, Copyright 2023

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My Continuing Publishing Saga

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My book ‘Heaven and Hell on the Road to Reno was just disapproved at the top level of the Virginia Department of Corrections. They said:

“‘Material that contains solicitations for or promotes activities that are in violation of state or federal law including the abuse or sexual exploitation of children or contains nude depictions of children in the context of sexual activity.’ Heaven and Hell on the Road to Reno contains material that abuses and exploits a child. There is no criterion exception for such material.” 

Either they didn’t actually read the book, are taking hallucinogenic drugs, or just made up an excuse so they could disapprove the book because I wrote it. 

Needless to say, they didn’t cite where this incident of abuse and exploitation of a child appears in the book for a damned good reason; it isn’t in there! Yes, there is sex in the book, perhaps more than some readers would be comfortable with, but it’s all adult sex. I could list dozens of books in our institutional library with similar sex scenes, some that go beyond what I’d be comfortable writing. 

There is absolutely nothing even remotely like what they claim that in the book! Period! Full stop! There aren’t even any child characters! I’ve never written anything like their slanderous accusation and never would! I consider child abuse disgusting. Not only are they guilty of serious constitutional violations, they’ve slandered me. 

The book they confiscated is a prepublication author’s uncorrected proof. By confiscating it and refusing to return it for false reasons, they’re preventing me from revising, correcting, and publishing it. They’re depriving me of income. 

And, perhaps most importantly, they’re violating Article One, Section Twelve, of the Virginia Constitution, which says “any citizen” may “write and publish … on all subjects.” 

Of course, they’re also trampling on the First Amendment of the United States Constitution. 

At the request of the Warden here, the Virginia Attorney General’s office already told them that I have the right to write and publish. But, they’re simply ignoring the Attorney General’s opinion and interfering with my right to publish, anyway. The Virginia Department of Corrections believes it is above the law. 

But to stop them and get my proof book back, I’ll have to sue them. That takes a lot of time and effort.

I’ll keep my readers updated on this sad saga.

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About The Author: Bob Shell is a professional photographer, author, former editor in chief of Shutterbug Magazine and veteran contributor to this blog. He is currently serving a 35 year sentence for involuntary manslaughter for the death of Marion Franklin, one of his former models.  He is serving the 15th year of his sentence at Pocahontas State Correctional Facility, Virginia. To read additional articles by Bob Shell, click here: https://tonywardstudio.com/blog/eve-of-an-election/