Thursday, September 27, 2007

ATL Classic 2007 - PEACE!


Have a great weekend. Headed to ATL for the Livest Black Event of the year [in my humble opinion]. The 2007 Atlanta Football Classic - where FAMU and TSU go head-to-head for a high profile football game every year. The two worlds reunite to stunt, show off the LIVEST band [clearly FAM-GOT-DAYUM-U], and have some good ole' HBCU fun. You saw the band at the Grammy's with Kanye in 2006, at the Super Bowl in 2007 with Prince, on the Obama campaign, so if you're in ATL come to see them live - how "we" do it.


In the game's tradition of competition and community service, proceeds raised by the Atlanta Football Classic benefit 100 Black Men of Atlanta's Project Success, an educational, mentoring and enrichment program providing financial and academic support and cultural enrichment to local high school and elementary school students.

The largest of The 100’s fundraising activities, The Classic is held in the Georgia Dome and has been dubbed the “Super Bowl of Black College Football – a reference to its notoriety and attendance.

Additional events, that are held classic weekend, include a town hall meeting on African-American health issues; a college debate; health, job & college fairs, a corporate corner; pre-game receptions and a scholars’ parade right down Peachtree Street.

The ATL Football Classic is the second largest recurring college sporting event in the state of Georgia, the Classic generates more than $30 million in Georgia’s economy each year and now has a permanent exhibit in the Dome commemorating its success.
So to all, have a "feel good" weekend - and just to make sure, here's one of my latest "feel good" songs by Kanye to get you through your day:


Favorite part ---> Lets go on a living spree, shiiiit - they say the best things in life are free. <---my new motto.

Tuesday, September 25, 2007

PEACE OUT REX!!!!


THANK YOU JESUS!!!

The NFL Network's Adam Schefter has confirmed that Brian Griese will start at quarterback Sunday for the Chicago Bears.

Griese will replace Rex Grossman, who threw three interceptions as the Chicago Bears fell to the Dallas Cowboys 34-10 on Sunday night. Muaahahahahahaaaaa, Rex is definitely NOT in effect.

Finally Lovie!!! Good lookin' out!
Alright, I DO feel a little bad. He's not that bad - ugh, can't agree with Bears haters. So here's another one:

Justified or not?

I'm rushing through this one. They have me swamped over here at work [I need to win the lotto], so I will provide more information on this article later, but here's the synopsis:

A report has been released stating that black kids at Winston Churchill High School [located in the wealthy DC area community of Potomac, MD] feel unwelcome. "This feeling of racial unease came in response to a January incident that divided much of the Churchill community along lines of race, class and perceived allegiance to the school. A simmering feud led to a fight Jan. 3 among 10 Churchill students, all of them black. The next day, Principal Joan Benz [yes the chick's last name is Benz] sent a letter home that stated that "every incident revolving around this two-month ordeal has been Black-on-Black violence."

#1 - Why did the principal have to emphasize black-on-black violence?
#2 - Why did she send that letter to ALL parents?
#3 - How are children suppossed to feel now (as black students) knowing that their every action will not be labeled as a "black" vs. "student" like everyone else. What should be read as "Susie Jenkins win's a national merit scholarship" in the school newspaper, may actually read "Black girl win's national merit scholarship" in the school newspaper.
#4 - Would the letter read "white-on-white" violence if it were 10 white kids who got into a fight? The news does this same thing all the time and it's quite frustrating.

But anyway, her comments have angered black parents [and students] at Churchill both inside and outside the Scotland community, which is home to many of the students involved in the fight. I don't know what should happen next. First, in my opinion, the principal should definitely offer an apology citing her ignorance as the primary culprit. But then what? Share your opinions.

Read on here ---> again I LOVE the Washington Post.

Monday, September 24, 2007

50th Anniversary for the Little Rock 9

This month marks the 50th anniversary of the Little Rock 9. As a result of the historic ruling from the Brown vs. Board of Education Case in 1954, declaring the segregation of schools to be illegal, the NAACP attempted to register black students into previously all-white schools. The Little Rock 9 consisted of several courageous youths, who attempted to integrate Little Rock Central High School under extreme racial conditions in September 1957.

It should be noted, that these students were selected due to their excellent academic and attendance records, and justifiably deserved entrance into Little Rock Central. They were clearly students who deserved a chance to excel under equal conditions. Although the students were subjected to verbal, mental, and physical abuse, they perservered. And that is to be commended.

What's so ironic, is that 50 years later, these cases are still apparent today. I applaud all students still undergoing these extreme prejudicial conditions in our country. To all of those students in cities/towns like Jena, LA...keep your head up and shoot for the stars.

Someone once said, “The biggest problem throughout the history of man is the fact that racism is anything but an anomoly.” So, once we realize that racism exists and may always exist, it is up to us to find a solution.

We all know that segregation still exists in our school systems. That inner city schools are not preparing our children for academic/corporate success. So how do we make a difference? This has been a large issue for me for a long time. What are some solutions? How can we make a difference without relying on our state/government officials to "save the day?"

Parting quote: “It demands great spiritual resilience not to hate the hater whose foot is on your neck, and an even greater miracle of perception and charity not to teach your child to hate."

Chicago Woman Missing - Nailah Franklin

Have you seen her? If you've seen her, or know anything of her disappearance, please contact the police immediately. I respect the news affliates all over the country for putting this information in the forefront. Maybe things ARE a-changing? Let's band together and find a happy ending to this seemingly tragic story. Read more here.
*UPDATE* - Last Thursday (9/27), an unclothed body that was discovered in the Calumet Woods (in northwest Indiana) was identified as the 28-year-old Franklin. Franklin was reported missing Sept. 19. You can find more information here. My prayers go out to her friends and familiy.

Rex Grossman SUCKS

That is all....

Friday, September 21, 2007

Why do Black Men Hate on Oprah?

Over the years I've really come to admire Oprah Winfrey [Sheila Johnson too, but more on her later]. She's an extremely giving person - a humanitarian, activist, entertainer, and business woman. For someone to come from such modest roots and evolve into such a media mogul has to be commended. So why do I keep hearing such negative comments about her from black men? Envy, jealousy, feelings of inadequacy? Is it her confidence is shining so bright that it burns your eyes? A black woman shouldn't be so confident, right?

You'd think that these people who have such negative things to say would be doing something with their lives to make a difference other than "trying" to pad their own wallets -- but um....no. In my humble opinion, the ones who have such criticism are doing nothing more than hating just to hate. I don't hear women dissin' Russell Simmons - in fact I commend his business savvy and community involvement. Please, maybe I'm missing something. Share your thoughts. In the meantime, keep doing your thing O - you are truly an inspiration to millions of people around the world. She's definitely been my inspriation [along with my mother and the word of God] to keep my feet firmly planted on the ground with my head straight up and focused on my purpose.
Parting Quote: "I was raised to believe that excellence is the best deterrent to racism or sexism. And that's how I operate my life." - Oprah Winfrey

Thursday, September 20, 2007

Day of National Reflection - 9/20/2007

Well today's the day 9/20/07 - the day Mychal Bell, the first of the Jena 6 to be convicted, is scheduled for sentencing. If the District Attorney [who should be disbarred] has his way, Mychal will face up to 22 years in prison.

As of this morning at 9a.m., approximately 13,000 supporters were in Jena, LA rallying for the Jena 6. Thousands more are expected to gather for the rally lead by Al Sharpton [sigh], Tyler Perry and Michael Baisden. It is a very historic day. When we stand united, we are stronger than we know. Big ups to anyone who's supported this cause - hope you are all wearing black today. I'm wearing my "Free the Jena 6" t-shirt today and know I'm going to get all kinds of ignorant questions, but wanted to at least wear the shirt while selling out at my desk when I should be in LA.

For my DC folks:
There will be a WASHINGTON DC MARCH & PEACEFUL PROTEST FOR JENA SIX:
When: Sept 20, 2007
Where: US Capitol in Washington, DC
Time: 8:00 am - 2:00 pm
What to wear: Participants are asked to WEAR BLACK for PROTEST.

LATEST UPDATE - The Circuit Court of Appeals in Lake Charles, La., has overturned the aggravated second-degree battery conviction of imprisoned Mychal Bell and the 3rd Circuit Court of Appeal ordered a hearing within 72 hours to determine if the only one of the six still behind bars can be released.

Great Article -- The Jena 6 and Iraq. - I LOVE the Washington Post.

Parting Quote: “So powerful is the light of unity that it can illuminate the whole earth.”

Wednesday, September 19, 2007

Raheem DeVaughn - New Single

Short post, mostly because I'm limiting my internet consumption today --- read why here. But I like this song. A couple of backhanded compliments for women, but I like it nonetheless. I definitely take notice whenever I hear any artist with a song appreciating all that women are. Very refreshing. Raheem DeVaughn is one of my favs - I love his whole vibe. What do you guys think? Share some of your favs.

Parting Quote: "Appreciation is a powerful tool to shift perspective. Finding something to appreciate during a difficult situation quickly moves the perspective to the big picture from the little picture."

Tuesday, September 18, 2007

Can't Stand the HEAT?

Disappointing news to report. There has been news released citing another divorce within the NBA community. Dwayne Wade and his high school sweetheart are officially calling a quits. It leads me to question whether any modern day marraige can withstand money, fame, and temptation? Are vows that are made under God important anymore? Have they ever been - really? Do we still value family as much as we used to?

Just a few weeks after Shaq's highly publicized divorce hit the airwaves, I find out that Dwayne Wade and his wife, Siohvaughn Wade, have officially filed for a divorce. Who cares? Well, they also have two kids to which she was reportedly raising alone while he ran the streets for two years - prompting her move to Chicago to be closer to family.

Apparently Dwayne Wade is a serious player (on and off the courts) and has even "allegedly" been linked to Kelly Rowland and Gabrielle Union. *Sigh.* I didn't think he'd be the type, but can't say I'm surprised. I used to think that he was an extremely sexy family-oriented man [yea I was sold on that ish] but now I'm officially disgusted. He probably has all kind of STDs and women in the woodworks claiming he's their "baby daddy", she's better off without him [get tested]. Oh well, do your thang Siohvaughn - move on to something better and let him crash and burn like the rest who start feeling themselves a bit too much. What goes around definitely comes back around. Get money - uh-oh-uh-oh-oh....

Parting Quote(s): [For you Gabs] “If you marry a man who cheats on his wife, you'll be married to a man who cheats on his wife.”

For the rest of us with common sense --> “Do not be too moral. You may cheat yourself out of much life so. Aim above morality. Be not simply good; be good for something.” -Henry David Thoreau

Motivational Poster of the Day


Just got this poster in my inbox and love it ---> it's the realest thing I've seen in a while - and funny as hell. Enjoy.

For real, this is it....

Love this video, I've seen it before, but someone just sent it to me ---> enjoy.

Monday, September 17, 2007

Teen Shot by Off-Duty Police Officer

[ LATEST NEWS. - Turns out the kid did not even have a gun. ]

Ok. I promise I'll stop with all of these socio-political and seemingly "militant" posts, but this is why I don't watch the news before bed. I can't sleep. I'm very disturbed.

Apparently, a 14 year old teenager was shot [in the head] and KILLED by an off-duty police officer in the southeast neighborhood of DC. Now I know this happens all the time, but does that make it OK?

Alright, so here's what I know so far [courtesy of Fox 5 DC]. Police say a 14-year-old shot at officers several times before the officers returned fire, killing him, Monday night.

The teen was taken to Children's Hospital in critical condition, but later died.

The incident happened along the 600-block of Atlantic Street Southeast, where DC Police Chief Lanier and Mayor Adrian Fenty met to brief reporters on the situation.

Both officers involved were in plainclothes reportedly working an investigation.

My questions are #1 why was this young teenager shooting at these police officers while they were off-duty investigating another incident? And #2, why do I hear this story so often? Check this out.

I mean call this ish a conspiracy...but this story of the "young black man just walked up to the police officers [notice the plurality] and started shooting" story sounds kind of weak. What's really going on here?

Yea yea, now let me be objective --> the officers could've been victims of this young boy's shooting spree and in a moment of desparation decided to protect themselves and others at the scene. I'll wait for more information before furthering my conspiracy theories. But this story, like many others I'm sure, will disappear into thin air. So I'll work on my investigative skills, and keep you in the loop.

Ok [btw, I say "OK" a lot...I need to work on that], and I promise I'll lighten this blog up a bit. Especially since I saw the Hills tonight and noticed that Lauren and Jason may get together again. Awww, young naive love. Aint it grand?

UPDATE!! - CLICK HERE

Parting quote: "Everything we shut our eyes to, everything we run away from, everything we deny, denigrate or despise, serves to defeat us in the end. What seems nasty, painful, evil, can become a source of beauty, joy, and strength, if faced with an open mind." - Henry Miller

Who in the HELL Cares about OJ?


Ok, as the 20th of September is approaching, I find myself searching for news reports of updates on the Jena 6 controversy. Nothing. Have any idea what I am finding? What's being called a "TOP NEWS STORY?" OJ Simpson. Ok. I understand the OJ story was PRIME news about 10+ years ago, but I thought his 15 minutes of infamy were over. Let's move on to more pressing news shall we?

A friend of mine just brought up the fact that this news coverage about OJ is "conveniently" flooding the news instead of the Jena story - which is a definite distraction. I agree. But in addition, I haven't heard NAN' one of the damn presidential candidates mention the Jena 6 case either. I remember how I felt after Katrina, when President Bush did not directly address the people of New Orleans. How I felt when I saw black people being beaten by the police and noone said anything. How I felt when I heard about the horrible rape/abuse of that West Virginia woman. I feel like screaming. I cannot believe that these stories are not being given more attention. And more importantly, I cannot believe that my fellow black people have no idea what the hell I'm even talking about when I mention these cases in casual conversation. These stories need coverage....attention....they need to be addressed.

Ok, gotta stop ranting and run before I lose my job. But come on people.....wear BLACK on Thursday or DIE! Ok, the ish didn't work when Diddy did it, it probably won't work now, but show some solidarity. Show some pride in your people. Lets stand united on this issue. Tell a friend.

Parting quote: "Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere. We are caught in an inescapable network of mutuality, tied in a single garment of destiny. Whatever affects one directly, affects all indirectly." - MLK

Thursday, September 13, 2007

HIP HOP IS DEAD! Or is it?

[Update -- Gangsta Rap, Dying in the Street.]

So, I was unwinding, relaxing after a long day and decided to turn to BET. Yes, BET.

Damn.

Our channel that was ours -- "For Us, By Us" as they say. Well it goes without saying that things have changed. Clearly I know I sound like my mama, but even at 25, I must say that I feel hip hop, however more popular than ever, has changed --and not for the better. Remember when it was "real", when it was fun, when it wasn't about rim's and ice?

My problem is this. I'm not really sure hip hop has evolved into this negative beast, or whether I've just matured. It's no longer "cool" to listen to songs degrading women or talking about who has more ice. It's no longer "gangsta" to glamorize getting shot 5 times but then turn around and record pop music with JT. [sorry, I really despise "fiddy"]

I understand it's easy to sell out when a majority of people who buy your records are underaged white teenagers craving those explicit lyrics of the "colored" community [jokey joke], but when are we going to get some backbone? It's a little overdue, so lets raise our standards just a bit...shall we?

I don't think we need to keep defending these hip hop artists. Everything is not poetry. Everything is not art. Not that I don't believe a majority of these "artists" are genuine poets and creative geniuses, I think they are clearly just selling out to the masses. I love crunk music, but on an album with 12-15 tracks, shouldn't they have something to say on at least one track?

There are still GREAT artists out there, don't get me wrong (Common, Mos Def, Talib Kweli, The Roots, Killarmy, Dead Prez, etc.), but lets discuss why these artists don't get the record sales of Lil Mama and Soulja Boy? I like to have fun too and bob my head to the beat, but watching the same blackface routines on "our" channel gets a little old.

I found a really good article that basically sums up what I'm trying to say here - "Who Killed Hip Hop on some JFK shit?" ----> ok, won't mention I read the article while bobbing my head to the Soulja Boy beat....the shit is catchy, damn.

Parting quote: "I'm fascinated by rap and by hip-hop. I think there's a lot of poetry in it. There's a lot of anger, a lot of social energy in it. And I think you'd better listen to it pretty carefully, 'cause it's important. " - John F. Kerry

Hip Hop Steps Up


According to Concrete Loop, Mos Def is one of the first rappers, along with David Banner, to speak out about the Jena 6 case that is going down in Louisiana. He is asking that ANYONE concerned with justice join him on Sept. 20 in Jena, La., to protest the harsh prosecution of the young black teens.

September 20th marks a critical day for young Mychal Bell, one of the black teenagers awaiting sentencing in the Jena 6 case, who will be appearing before a judge in a Louisiana court house.

Various rallys and events are being set up to give him support.

Mos Def is asking anyone who wants to get involved to contact info@mxgm.org.

If you cannot make it to Jena, LA on September 20th, please show your solidarity by wearing all black on September 20th and make a donation here.

In other news, Mos Def and I have decided to move forward with our long term relationship and get married.

Location: In my dreams.

Parting quote of the day: "The strongest bond of human sympathy outside the family relation should be one uniting working people of all nations and tongues and kindreds."

Wednesday, September 12, 2007

What YEAR is this Again? 1907 or 2007?


Ok, ok, no time for exchanging greetings or formalities quite yet, lets just get it started... So, after hearing and closely watching the Jena Six case (more on this later), I decided chalk this incident up to the fact that Jena, LA is just a backwards ass redneck town that's clearly stuck in 1907. However, I wake up, come into work to find this article -----> http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,296429,00.html
in my DAMN inbox yesterday. Y'all already know it was hard to maintain my composure in the midst of my "conservative" co-workers, but I held my cool. But come on. What is going on here?! Let's note that West VA, is only a few extra miles from DC. So it goes without saying that I'm more than a bit concerned.

First, this is clearly a case of attempted murder.

Secondly, please tell me one thing from this sentence that leads you to believe this was NOT a hate crime? --> "The victim was repeatedly called a racial slur while her captors sexually abused, beat and stabbed her", her mother said. "The woman's abductors called her the N-word "every time they stabbed her," Carmen Williams told The Charleston Gazette earlier.

So, when I heard that the "officials" were meeting later to "determine" whether this incident should even be classified as a hate crime (after gathering clear, undeniable evidence for days), I knew this was crazy so I decided to dig. Come to find out, they've decided NOT to pursue hate crime charges at all. However, they note that they will keep the option "open." What the HELL?

Peep this ---> http://209.157.64.200/focus/f-news/1895611/posts I wonder if this has anything to do with the fact that the senator of West Virginia is a former klansman?

I think it's time we all open this topic wide open. It's time to start calling the kettle BLACK ---> 1907 or 2007 racism is still as prevalent as ever. The question is, what are we prepared to do about it?

Where the hell is BET Nightly News when you need it? Let me know if you hear about this on CNN or any of the other news networks in your area.

Parting quote: "I will permit no man to narrow and degrade my soul by making me hate him." -Booker T. Washington