The NBA's president of basketball operations is confident replacement officials would perform well if they are needed when games begin. The players aren't so sure. The NBA and its referees union have failed to reach an agreement on a new contract, so the league will begin training replacements this week.
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Photogs sue Brady, Bundchen for $1M (AP)
Two photographers sued New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady and supermodel Gisele Bundchen for $1 million Tuesday, saying they were shot at during a post-wedding party in Costa Rica. The lawsuit filed in U.S. District Court in Manhattan alleged that the photographers, though the shot didn't hit them, suffered physical and mental harm from the attack during a celebration in early April at…
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Drake ft. Eminem, Kanye West, Lil Wayne: Forever
Posted by: ImGlobalNow Drake featuring Eminem, Kanye West, and Lil Wayne in “Forever.”
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Beyonce: The Muslims Have Problems With ‘Sexy Performances’
Despite an abrupt cancellation of her 2007 concert in Malaysia, due to protesters threatening to disrupt it because of her sexual image, Beyonce Knowles will finally take the stage on Oct. 25 in the country’s biggest city, Kuala Lumpur.However, according to the Associated Press, the Grammy Award-winning superstar still isn’t receiving the ‘Diva’ treatment that she’s accustomed to: earlier this week, beyonce Sabki Yusof, head of the Pan-Malaysian Islamic Party,stated that his organization would send a protest note to the government over the singer’s show.
The country enforces and requires all female performers to cover up from the shoulders to knees with no cleavage showing.
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“We are not against entertainment as long as it is within the framework of our culture and our religion,” Yusof said. “We are against Western sexy performances. We don’t think our people need that.”
Sounds like Bey may be too ‘Bootylicious’ for Malaysia’s own good!“Not many people outside of a President or a government official get welcomed to a country with a mass protest,” black celebrity blogger Natasha Eubanks (and owner of the popular website Young, Black & Fabulous) told Black Voices. “For that reason alone, Beyonce and her Sasha Fierce glove need to make their way to Malaysia and give the best show she’s ever done. Just because she can. Chick’s not about to pop out Shawn Jr.’s anytime soon, so I need something other than her bedazzled lace-front [wig] to gossip about.”
Although Yusof and his organization attempts to protest Knowles, her website has confirmed her performance in the Muslim-majority country: “Beyoncé for the first time ever has decided to make Malaysia part of her ‘I Am’ World Tour.”
Luckily for the ‘Dreamgirls’ actress, she’s not the only artist to experience backlash from Islamic activists and their strict dress code. Most recently Muslims in Malaysia were banned from attending the Black Eyed Peas‘ concert, which is scheduled for this weekend, because it was sponsored by Irish beer giant Guinness. The ban has since been lifted and the company will not be allowed to sell its beer or use its logo in publicity material.
Black Music Notes Mar. 3
3/3/09: Diddy
When it comes to making an event out of an album, Diddy sure knows how to put on a show. And for his forthcoming project, ‘Last Train to Paris,’ the multitalented mogul is following in the vein of Prince‘s classic flick and album ‘Purple Rain.’ “It’s definitely going to be an album you can seamlessly see,” he recently told MTV News. “Not after the fact. When you get the album on that day, September 22, you will be able to see the whole album on your computer. … You know how when you’re on your computer and you’re listening to an album, you have your screen saver on instead of screen save, you’ll be able to see the album in motion. And the presentation of the album will be different from the videos.” Hopefully, Diddy will make it in time on Sept. 22 to catch the ‘Last Train to Paris’ once the album hits stores.Kevin Mazur, WireImage
3/3/09: Janet Jackson
Recently there has been speculation that Janet Jackson was likely to sign a new multirights deal with Live Nation. However, contrary to reports, Live Nation senior VP of communications John Vlautin denied the claim. “We have not signed a deal with Janet, nor are we currently in discussions with the artist,” Vlautin said. Jackson departed from her former label, Island Def Jam, in September, 14 months after signing to the record company.The Canadian Press / AP
3/3/09: Black Eyed Peas
Despite previous reports that Grammy Award-winning pop group Black Eyed Peas would release a new album, ‘The E.N.D.’ (The Energy Never Dies), in March, it now appears Will.i.am and company will release the project on June 9. Billboard reports that the album’s first single, ‘Boom Boom Pow,’ will soon be released, and that the group is planning an international tour. Will.i.am, the Black Eyed Peas front man, described the album as having “a lot of dance stuff, real melodic, electronic, soulful. We call it, like, electric static funk, something like that.”Peter Kramer, AP
2/27/09: MC Hammer
MC Hammer is back! This time the multiplatinum-selling rapper is heading to network television for his new unscripted A&E reality series ‘Hammertime.’ Hammer’s new half-hour series will feature Hammer, his wife and five children – reminiscent of the Huxtable family from ‘The Cosby Show,’ says executive producer J.D. Roth. “Here’s a dad with five kids, married to the same woman for more than 23 years, living in the same place where he grew up and going to church every Sunday,” Roth says. “He’s had his ups and downs, and it’s what makes him such a character you root for.” MC Hammer’s ‘Hammertime’ is set to premiere on A&E later this year.2/27/09: Jazmine Sullivan
Although she didn’t walk away with an award at this year’s Grammys, singer-songwriter Jazmine Sullivan is bound for Hollywood for her upcoming film ‘Red Tails.’ According to Billboard, Sullivan will travel to Prague to start shooting the film, which is based on the story of the Tuskegee Airmen. “I play a singer who entertains soldiers,” she said. “I’m really just entertainment for them, but I kind of get a little relationship going with one of them. So that’s very exciting.” As for now, Sullivan has an exciting relationship going on with R&B crooner Ne-Yo — on tour that is. The two are currently touring through March 1. At press time, there was no release date for ‘Red Tails.’Charles Sykes, AP
2/27/09: Tupac
With the Notorious B.I.G.‘s biopic in the can, fans are now anticipating a biographical movie on his rival Tupac. Unfortunately, fans may have to wait a little longer before a Tupac flick hits the silver screen. A legal dispute has surfaced involving the production company Morgan Creek and Amaru Entertainment, the company run by Tupac’s mother, Afeni Shakur. The lawsuit, which was filed by Morgan Creek, states that Amaru Entertainment reneged on an agreement to sell the rapper’s life rights for a movie. Amaru Entertainment released a statement clarifying the recent media reports: “This lawsuit has no merit. We felt it was important to bring the story of Tupac Shakur, one of music’s most remarkable icons, to life onscreen, and in realizing this vision, we sought to find the best partner who would be true to Tupac’s vision and bring his unique story to life on the big screen. In doing so, we have taken every step to ensure that our partner in this process is committed to the integrity of Tupac Shakur’s legacy and, more importantly, that they are the right people. To that end, we have been in discussions and negotiations with several major studios and production companies, including Morgan Creek Productions. However, at no time did we have an agreement with Morgan Creek.”Time Life Pictures / Getty Images
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Lymphedema Treatments – Living With Lymphedema
What is Lymphedema?
First I would need to explain what lymph is just in case you do not know. Lymph is a liquid that nourishes the tissue in blind-end vessels. Lymph travels from your capillaries into the main circulation through the veins in your neck…
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Agent: G Bogans to sign with Spurs (AP)
Guard Keith Bogans is the latest newcomer to the San Antonio Spurs. Bogans' agent, Michael Harrison, says he is set to sign a guaranteed one-year deal with the Spurs before training camp starts next week. San Antonio will be Bogan's fifth team in seven seasons. The 29-year-old Bogans averaged 5.6 points playing for Orlando and Milwaukee last season.
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Havoc – Smells Like 9/5 / Sex Tape
Posted by: Illmatic Havoc – Smells Like 9/5 / Sex Tape
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Burress begins 2-year prison term (AP)
Former Super Bowl hero Plaxico Burress apologized to his family and tearfully kissed his pregnant wife and young son goodbye Tuesday before he was led away to prison to begin serving a two-year sentence on a weapons charge. Burress, at the time a star receiver with the New York Giants, was at the Latin Quarter nightclub in Manhattan last November when a gun tucked into his waistband slipped down…
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Girl, You Got Some “Good Hair”, Is It Yours?
Posted by: Melyssa S. Ford In late 2007, I was asked by my good friend Nelson George to be a part of a documentary he and Chris Rock were co-producing about black women and their hair. The idea originated from Chris’ curiosity about the concept of “good hair” after one of his adorable daughters came home and asked, “Daddy, why don’t I have good hair?” This began a year and a half long journey that led Chris all over America, through barbershops and hair salons, interviewing the every man and every woman, celebrities and hair care experts; a visit to the great Bronner Brother’s Annual Hair Show in Atlanta and eventually to India, where a significant portion of weaving hair originates from. Although I thought the idea was ‘cute’, I didn’t put that much stock into the film or its concept and quickly forgot about my appearance in it as other projects came up and demanded my attention. Fast forward to the present, late 2009 where the documentary has been completed and is blowing people’s minds at every single screening it is shown at. Film festival audiences and guests at special screenings are leaving the film finding themselves thoroughly entertained and also more informed than ever on the relationship between a women, more specifically black women, and their hair.
After seeing the film myself, I couldn’t help but reflect back on the first time I got a relaxer. I was 11 years old, about to enter the seventh grade and my hair was completely virgin hair; a big huge Afro that was the result of re-growth from previous years of my disasterous Jheri curl phase. From the moment my hairdresser spun me around to look at my reflection after the process was complete, I became a certified addict to the “Creamy Crack”. That is what most of us refer to as relaxer, and its effects usually lead to a lifetime dependence. To have edges that lay flat, to have our roots straightened out, to have our hair actually move by the whisper of a slight breeze keeps us in the salon chair every 6 to 10 weeks, getting our regular touch ups. Never mind that most of us, at some point, have suffered excruciating pain at having been burnt by the chemical process being left on too long; forget the fact that the main ingredient in relaxer is sodium glygoglate, which can completely erode and dissolve aluminum and other metal materials; and let us not even consider that once we’ve put this chemical on our hair, we not only alter and damage the composition of our hair, we seemingly buy into the idea that the natural structure and texture of our own hair is substandard to our female counterparts of other races and nationalities.
“Good Hair” is more than just a film about our concept of what “good hair” actually is; it’s a journey into the $9 billion dollar black hair care industry of which we only own and operate a small, insignificant percentage of. For an industry that is so specific to the black race’s needs and for us to not completely dominate it from a manufacturing and retail standpoint shows a lot about our perception of freedom and the reality of modern day oppression. The notion that we, as black women indulge in our choices to wear our hair in so many different ways and styles depending on the type of hair we purchase or the chemical process we undergo, the film will have you second guessing as to whether it’s a choice at all, or a form of voluntary slavery that is both economic and psychological.
I encourage all of you, both men and women of all races and nationalities, to see the film when it hits theaters on October 9th and keep the debate going here on Global Grind.
Thank you for reading.
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Manning rallies Colts by Dolphins 27-23 (AP)
Peyton Manning spent most of the night on the sideline and just enough time reaching the end zone. The Indianapolis Colts had the ball for less than 15 minutes, but Manning made the most of his chances, helping his team come from behind four times to beat the Miami Dolphins 27-23 Monday night. Manning threw touchdown passes of 80 yards to Dallas Clark and 48 yards to Pierre Garcon.
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Sinking Astros fire manager Cooper (AP)
The Houston Astros fired manager Cecil Cooper on Monday with 13 games left in another disappointing season. Third-base coach Dave Clark was named interim manager and things didn't change much Monday night as the Astros lost their eighth straight, 7-3 to the St. Louis Cardinals, to drop to 70-80. General manager Ed Wade said the change couldn't wait until the end of the season.
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Top Giants prospect charged with murder (AP)
A top prospect for the San Francisco Giants was charged with murder in the death of a 25-year-old man last weekend at a bar in his Caribbean homeland. Angel Villalona, who received a club-record $2.1 million bonus when he was signed by the Giants in 2006, wore a bulletproof vest Monday to his hearing at a court in the city of La Romana.
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Artest: Blame me if Lakers don’t repeat (AP)
Pardon Ron Artest if he's a bit geographically challenged and had no idea that San Diego has a big league baseball team, even though he was wearing a Padres cap. This much he's sure of — If his Los Angeles Lakers don't repeat as NBA champions, fans can point their fingers at him. "They should.
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Few precautions you should take when getting yourself a Fake Tan
Because UV rays are getting more and more aggressive due to depletion of the ozone layer, women are favoring Fake Tan to natural suntans. There are two ways in which you could get yourself an artificial tan: either from exposure to artificial sources of U…
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Paul not worried about replacement refs (AP)
Because of his size, many teams will always try to be physical with Chris Paul. Yet the All-Star guard isn't worried about play getting out of hand if his games are being called by replacement officials. "No, no," Paul said Monday. "I don't worry about replacement referees. End of the day, you're reffing the game." The NBA and its referees union have failed to reach…
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New Music: Joss Stone-"Free Me"
Posted by: BallerAlert SEE ORIGINAL STORY TO CHECK IT OUT. -
Niners file tampering charges vs. Jets (AP)
The 49ers have filed tampering charges against the New York Jets regarding top San Francisco draft pick Michael Crabtree, Jets coach Rex Ryan confirmed Monday. "My understanding is they filed charges with the league," Ryan said. "I'm saying my response is it's not true. I mean, it's not accurate.
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Touré: New Gig In ‘Hip Hop Shop’
Filed under: Music, Television, News
Former Rolling Stone scribe Touré just signed on to host a new weekly music video show on Fuse called ‘Hip Hop Shop.’ This marks the television network’s new push to include music-centric shows hosted by experts of the respective genre.
Fuse hinted that Touré would be getting a new gig when he nailed the job of sitting down with Jay-Z for a two-part special that aired before the Brooklyn MC’s live 9/11 tribute concert, which took place at Madison Square Garden. He also served as a backstage correspondent during the concert special.
Black Music Notes June 1
6/1/09: Minnie Riperton
A very fitting homage will be paid to late, great songbird Minnie Riperton when a new batch of the acclaimed TV One docu-series ‘Unsung’ hits the small screen this month. Best known for her signature ballad ‘Lovin’ You,’ the Chicago-born singer/songwriter’s career and life were cut short after a three-year battle with breast cancer in the late 1970s. After Riperton’s cancer diagnosis, she went public instead of retreating, serving as a spokesperson for the American Cancer Society. . She was only 31 years old when she died at the prime of her career. ‘Unsung’ premieres June 7 at 8 PM ET, repeating at 11 PM, as well as Thursday, June 11 at 10 PM and Friday, June 12 at noon and midnight.Wire Image
6/1/09: Grace Jones
The one and only Grace Jones has been tapped to perform live at the ‘We Love’ festival in Ibiza on Aug. 9. For the first time ever, the ‘Pull Up To The Bumper’ singer will grace the Spanish island’s celebrated summer concert series, as part of the Wall Of Sound recording company’s 15th anniversary. Last year, festival organizers bought The Chemical Brothers back to the Ibiza after a ten-year hiatus. This year, they are ready for Amazing Grace, who recently released a new music project titled ‘Hurricane’ on the United Kingdom based label. “We are putting on a line-up to inspire and one that will take all lucky enough to be there on a journey they will never ever forget,” Wall of Sound founder Mark Jones said.Getty Images
5/28/09: Chaka Khan
Fresh from a headlining gig at the 2009 St Lucia Jazz Festival, Chaka Khan is ready to take on the nation’s capital. The 10-time Grammy Award winning diva will fill in for previously announce headliner Natalie Cole, who is recovering from a live saving kidney transplant surgery, at ‘The 18th Annual Capital Jazz Fest’ running June 5 – June 7. The ‘I Feel For You’ chanteuse will join a slew of noted musical acts at the lovely wooded setting of Merriweather Post Pavilion in Columbia, Maryland. According to a spokesperson for the event, the line-up includes performances by Stanley Clarke, Marcus Miller and Victor Wooten, George Duke, Al Jarreau, Lalah Hathaway, Fourplay, Norman Brown, Roy Ayers, Will Downing, Kirk Whalum, Pieces of a Dream with special guest Phil Perry, Guitars & Saxes (f/ Jeff Lorber, Euge Groove, Jeff Golub and lady saxophone newcomer Jessy J) , Regina Belle, Marion Meadows and trumpeter Joey Sommerville.AFP/Getty Images
5/28/09: Grandmaster Flash
Grandmaster Flash will be honored with the Living Legend award at the Urban Music Awards USA 2009, set to be held at New York City’s Highline Ballroom on July 17. According to a spokesperson for the event, more than 175,000 music fans across the world have voted online for the hip hop veteran to receive the honor. “Flash is an absolute legend and he remains an inspiration to the hip hop culture all together by flying the flag from its inception to the success it has become today,” said Jordan Kensington, who is the C.E.O of Invincible Group & Founder of the Urban Music Awards. Nominees for the inaugural awards show include Amy Winehouse, Rihanna, Bobby Valentino, M.I.A, Day 26, The Dream, Estelle, Kat de Luna, Akon, Kanye West, Keri Hilson, Ne-Yo and Eminem.Getty Images
5/21/09: Jay-Z
Despite stepping down from his Def Jam presidency in late 2007, hip hop mogul Jay-Z has finally left the label as an artist. Rumors started surfacing online that the platinum-selling lyricist, who owed the label one last album, brought himself out of his contract for $5 million. “I can honestly say, working with Doug Morris and LA Reid has been a unique and fulfilling experience and I respect them immensely,” he revealed to hip hop site Rap Radar. “I’ve been in the family for almost my entire career. Doug and I spoke directly and had one of the most unique ‘negotiations’ ever…I thank him for allowing me to be a completely independent artist. Not every artist can say they own or are given the opportunity to own all of their music.”Frank Micelott, Getty Images
5/19/09: Mary J. Blige
Mary J. Blige recently expanded her brand by signing with The William Morris Agency. According to Variety, the diversified entertainment agency, which also represents Alicia Keys, Rihanna, Kanye West, and Prince (to name a few), will assist the Queen of Hip Hop Soul in all areas of her career including the expansion of her entertainment company, Matriarch Entertainment. This fall the Queen of Hip Hop Soul will make her feature film debut in Tyler Perry‘s ‘I Can Do Bad All by Myself,’ scheduled to hit theaters September 11. She can be heard in the trailers for the Oprah Winfrey-presented drama ‘Precious,’ due out in November.Chip Somodevilla, Getty Images
5/19/09: The Dream
Following in the veins of fellow hip hop stars DMX and Tupac Shakur, singer-songwriter The Dream is planning on releasing his second album of 2009 entitled, ‘Love King.’ The R&B crooner, who recently released his certified gold album ‘Love vs. Money’ in March, revealed to Billboard magazine that he already has seven songs in the can and expects the album to hit stores in December. “I have to pace myself ’cause there’s so much time between here and then,” he said, “but the seven records I do have are timeless records. Whether they come out now or later it’s not really going to matter what kind of records they are.” In between recording sessions for ‘Love King,’ fans can now catch The Dream on tour with Keyshia Cole.Getty Images
5/19/09: The Whispers
After releasing classic hits such as ‘In The Mood’ and ‘Rock Steady,’R&B stalwarts The Whispers are set to release their first gospel album on Kingdom Records. Grammy Award-winning gospel star Fred Hammond is expected to produce a bulk of the tracks. “We’ve been wanting to do this for ten years,” explained founding member Nick Caldwell. “God has been really, really good to the Whispers. He was looking out for us even when we were ignoring Him. He allowed us to live long enough to do this inspirational CD that we want to use to inspire people to get closer to God.” The as-yet-untitled anticipated album is tentatively scheduled for release later this year.5/19/09: Mariah Carey
On May 23, Mariah Carey is set to perform a one-hour set at the opening of the most expensive resort in Europe, The Mardan. Carey alongside legendary British soul singer Tom Jones will reportedly be paid £1 million each to perform at the exclusive £926 million Turkey development, which features five acres of fresh water swimming pools and a sunken aquarium. Actress Sharon Stone and Paul McCartney are among the many guests invited to the 560 room hotel opening.Chip Somodevilla, Getty Images
5/19/09: Will Downing
Overcoming his bout with the muscle disorder Polymyositis, Will Downing has set the stage to release is latest musical offering, ‘Classique.’ The balladeer’s 14th album and second Peak Records project features his signature baritone vocals over 10 smooth-sensual tracks. Vocalist Phil Perry joins the ‘After Tonight’ singer for Marvin Gaye penned ‘Baby I’m for Real.’ Other album highlights include ‘Love Suggestions,’ ‘More Time,’ ‘Something Special’ and Barry White‘s classic hit ‘I’m Gonna Love You Just A Little More Baby.’ ‘Classique’ hit stores June 16.Verve
The new show will feature in-studio interviews with musicians and celebrities.The premiere episode of ‘Hip Hop Shop’ will feature former 3LW singer Natauri Naughton, who will discuss her new role in the upcoming remake of ‘Fame.’
Since dropping out of Emory University to intern at Rolling Stone, Touré, who has served as a contributing editor for the magazine since 1997, has written cover stories on everyone from Lauryn Hill to Alicia Keys. The Boston native has also penned three books ‘The Portable Promised Land, which is a collection of short stories, as well as a novel called ‘Soul City’ and a collection of his pop culture writings called ‘Never Drank the Kool-Aid.’
Most recently, the 38 year-old father of two served as CNN’s pop culture correspondent for ‘American Morning’s 90 Second Pop.’
Fuse’s ‘Hip Hop Shop’ debuts on Sept. 23 aToure Never Drankt 7:00 pm ET.
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Wake up, ladies…
Posted by: Ashley Dupre Wow. Talk about outrage. Although many people agreed with my point of view regarding the socially acceptable ways women prostitute themselves, it looks like the haters are still out in full force and twisting my words around (I saw in the NY Post that even a few of the cast members of the Real Housewives of New Jersey chimed in – why so sensitive? Does the truth sting a bit too much?).
I even had a nut job chase me down on the street this weekend while walking my dogs – she followed me home, screaming and cursing at me the entire time, threatening me, and she had much of it recorded on her iPhone (can’t wait to see that terrifying experience posted somewhere). So, let me clarify a few things so you call understand. I wasn’t saying “all women” use men for money – I said many, to varying degrees, do. Whether it’s dating in exchange for jewelry and clothes, or being in a loveless relationship with someone you’re not attracted to simply for the sake of having financial security, it all comes down to compromising yourself in exchange for being taken care of by a man. This is ingrained in us as little girls – find a prince, find a rich man to marry, date someone with the means to care for you.
I don’t endorse any of these types of relationships and believe that the only healthy relationship is one in which there is love, mutual respect, attraction and friendship (I really hope to find that for myself one day). But just be honest about what’s worse here – the woman who is deceiving men into thinking they’re in love so they can cash in, the woman who sacrifices her life in a meaningless relationship because she is complacent and too afraid to leave the money to search for something more meaningful, or the “prostitute” who doesn’t pull any punches and is honest about her expectation of receiving financial consideration for sex (at least that’s honest and everyone’s expectations are clear). I’m not certain one is any better or more ethical than the other – but I do know that each one is unhealthy – and if you’re labeling one of them a “prostitute,” then be honest and call all of them prostitutes.
A trophy wife who doesn’t truly love her husband is like being a prostitute on payroll, and a gold digger is like a prostitute who accepts payment in the form of merchandise instead of cash.
Wake up, ladies.
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Dr. Boyce Money: Don’t Throw Tavis Smiley Under the Wells Fargo Bus
Filed under: Dr. Boyce Money, News
When I read about the predatory lending allegations against Tavis Smiley and Wells Fargo, I wasn’t surprised. Not because I feel that Tavis is some kind of crook, but because economic downturns are usually when everyone’s dirty laundry gets aired out. The high flying 2000s were a decade of extravagance, overspending, easy money and troubled relationships. The party was bound to end. Smiley’s party has ended with Wells Fargo, as the company has been accused of using Tavis Smiley and financial expert Kelvin Boston to convince African Americans to sign on to loans that turned out to be predatory. Neither Boston nor Smiley is willing to disclose the amount they were paid for the service, but I’m sure it wasn’t chump change.
I’ve been open and honest in my critiques of Tavis Smiley in the past, but I give credit where it’s due. I’ve always felt that Tavis Smiley is a man who works out of a sincere respect and appreciation for the black community. He is not out to hoodwink, swindle or hurt us, at least not deliberately. At worst, Smiley is guilty of being caught in a situation that he may not have fully understood.
Although I agree with the black community’s decision to hold Tavis Smiley accountable for his actions, I want us to be cautious of going overboard in our judgments. Here are 5 things I want to say about Tavis Smiley:
1) Don’t throw Tavis under the bus. African Americans can be tough on our public figures. After Smiley’s repeated calls for accountability against President Obama, many failed to appreciate the value of scrutinizing our elected officials. While Tavis’ close relationship with Hillary Clinton undermined the credibility of his challenges to Obama, the truth is that accountability is very important when dealing with any politician. One must respect Tavis for having the willingness to say things that are unpopular, which even Obama himself doesn’t always have the courage to do.
2) Beware of corporate sponsors bearing gifts. One of the greatest barriers to social progress for African Americans has been our inability to properly assess those who sponsor our activities. Any corporation that comes along with a signed check can usually find a place at our table. Would you want your teenage daughter taking money from any boy who offered it to her? Probably not, because you know that the the boy might be expecting “repayment” at the end of the night. The same is true for corporate sponsors, who are paying you to present the kind of image they want the public to see.
3) The revolution will NOT be brought to you by Walmart. Rarely, if ever, can true black activism be achieved via funding provided by companies run by the descendants of our historical oppressors. This is due to the inherent conflict of interest between capitalist entities and the plight of the poor. African Americans are disproportionately poor and working class. Therefore, unfettered capitalism is designed to destroy us (although compassionate capitalism can fuel economic growth). So, while one can certainly understand why Smiley would be happy to take corporate money for his State of the Black Union event every year, the truth of the matter is that the honest activism of such a function can only go so far.
4) A critical line must be drawn between financing and influence. There’s a reason that the New York times doesn’t let it’s advertisers decide which stories are going to appear on the front page. This is because the natural power that comes with financial support must be tempered by a commitment to conscientious objectives. If Wells Fargo needs to be called out for its predatory lending practices, that is not going to happen with the Wells Fargo logo placed behind the speaker’s head. There should be independent oversight of all funding sources for The State of the Black Union, The State of Black America, as well as events held by the NAACP and Urban League every year. Influence is bought behind the scenes all the time, and good black leadership should be as transparent as possible.
5) We should keep supporting Tavis. Tavis Smiley’s annual event, The State of the Black Union, is one of the most celebrated in the black community. With a renewed commitment to conscientious corporate sponsorship, The State of the Black Union can regain its status as a respected and appreciated forum for black education. But in order for this to happen, we must make sure we know where the money is coming from, where it is going and what strings are attached. Without properly vetting the sources of your financial support, you are setting yourself up for corruption.
Dr. Boyce Watkins is a Finance Professor at Syracuse University, a leading African American speaker and author of the forthcoming book, “Black American Money.” To have Dr. Boyce commentary delivered to your email, please click here. -
Do The Souljah Boy Twist!
Posted by: theblackurbantimes.com That’s right! Souljah Boy has put some twisty designs in his head…not braids but twists! What are your thoughts? Likey? Or no likey?
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Fired ref on list of camp replacements (AP)
A referee who was previously fired by the NBA is among the group of replacements who have agreed to participate in training camp next week. Michael Henderson is one of 44 who was sent an e-mail from the NBA's referees operations department on Friday. The Associated Press obtained a copy of the e-mail, which provides the replacements with details about the meetings, scheduled to begin Thursday…
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Cavs G West arrested on weapons charges (AP)
Cleveland Cavaliers guard Delonte West was arrested Thursday after officers pulled him over for speeding on a motorcycle while carrying two loaded handguns and a loaded shotgun in a guitar case. Prince George's County police spokeswoman Sgt. Michelle Reedy said Friday the Cleveland Cavaliers player was arrested about 10 p.m.
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Chilli on Her New TV Show, Dating as a Single Mom and Usher
We caught up with the southern beauty to see how her new dating series is different from other reality shows, why she’s open to men of all backgrounds and whether there’s any chance for a reconciliation with Usher.
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UPDATE: Kelis & Nas: Back Together?
Our ESSENCE.com insider spotted estranged couple Kelis and Nas at an event last night with baby Knight looking very much like they were back together. Find out where they were and tell us if you’re rooting for their reunion.
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Men That Don’t Take Responsibility For a Pregnancy Are Punk Bitches!
I’m tired of hearing Black men whine that they aren’t ready to be a father and that he shouldn’t have to pay child support for a kid he didn’t want. Look here fool… if you are having sex bare with a woman you know is fertile, you are ready to be a father whether you affirm it vocally or not. Actions speak louder than words. You are doing everything it takes to become a father, right? So what are you talking about you ain’t ready?
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The Week That Was: Mo’Nique Moves on, Roxanne Shante Rings Alarm
Filed under: Music, Movies, Television, News, Photos, Theater, Celeb Updates
She may have been a no-show at the Toronto International Festival earlier this week, but Mo’Nique partied it up with the likes of Vogue Editor-at-Large Andre Leon Talley at the Sugar Bar last night. The incredibly shrinking funnywoman dined on buttery shrimp, sidestepped to the live music (with a bodyguard standing shielding her = insane to observe), cut up on the microphone and welcomed the black media with open arms at an exclusive soiree celebrating her upcoming BET late-night talk show, which premieres Oct. 5.Aside from the new show, which we hear may draw comparisons to Arsenio Hall’s groundbreaking 1990s chat fest, the former star of ‘The Parkers’ is looking forward to a busy season. Her performance in the Oprah Winfrey/Tyler Perry-produced drama ‘Precious: Based on the Novel Push’ has garnered early Oscar buzz. It has also brought a tinge of scandal, too. This week, a source told Roger Friedman of the Hollywood Reporter that the 41-year-old actress asked for $100,000 at one point to show up to the festival with the rest of the cast. Of course, a rep for Lionsgate (the studio will release the film on Nov. 6) downplayed that tidbit with talk of “scheduling conflicts.” Hmmm. Winfrey, Perry and the diva Mariah Carey all showed up. And no one could possibly be busier than those three. They were all in New York City last night, too, but were nowhere near the Sugar Bar. When probed about the movie’s shining star, the film’s director told a room full of Toronto Festival journalists, “She’s at home eating some potato chips with her kids.” Ummmmm. Okay.
Last night, however, Mo’Nique seemed to be in her own mode at the Ashford & Simpson-owned hot spot. She wasn’t talking about Toronto drama. Actually, come to think of it, she didn’t say much at all in the watering hole’s tight quarters. The ‘Original Queen of Comedy’ did commend ‘Precious’ filmmakers for believing in her, along with BET honchos Debra Lee, Stephen Hill and Loretha Jones.
http://xml.channel.aol.com/xmlpublisher/fetch.v2.xml?option=expand_relative_urls&dataUrlNodes=uiConfig,feedConfig,entry&id=725061&pid=725060&uts=1253285733http://cdn.channel.aol.com/cs_feed_v1_6/csfeedwrapper.swfParty Hearty: Mo’Nique at The Sugar BarMo’Nique getting her groove on.Wilson MoralesBlackVoices.comBlack Filmmakers
Spike Lee
Besides Woody Allen, no other filmmaker has had more films on the big screen in the last 20 years than Lee. From ‘She’s Gotta Have It’ to ‘Jungle Fever’ to the critically acclaimed and Oscar-nominated ‘Do The Right Thing,’ Lee’s production company, 40 Acres & A Mule Filmworks, has produced more than 35 films since 1983. In 2008, the Atlanta native released his latest film, ‘Miracle at St. Anna,’ a story about blacks fighting in WWII that stars Derek Luke and Michael Ealy.Oscar Micheaux
As the pioneer of Black filmmakers, this Metropolis, Illinois, native revolutionized the film industry when he formed his own movie production company and, in 1919, became the first Black to make a film. He wrote, directed and produced the silent motion picture ‘The Homesteader’ and then introduced the film world to Paul Robeson in ‘Body and Soul.’ In 1986, the Directors Guild of America honored Micheaux with a Golden Jubilee Special Award, and today the Oscar Micheaux Award is presented each year by the Producers Guild.Robert Townsend
Primarily known as a comedian, this Chicago native established himself when he wrote, directed, produced and starred in the comedy ‘Hollywood Shuffle,’ his 1987 film about struggling black actors. He also created and produced the CableACE award-winning ‘Robert Townsend and His Partners in Crime’ for HBO. His best film to date is the 1991 musical ‘The Five Heartbeats.’ Townsend recently directed the documentary ‘Why We Laugh,’ a story on black comedians and their impact in America.Bill Duke
Known for his imposing 6-foot-6-inch figure and action films such as 1987’s ‘Predator,’ the Poughkeepsie, New York, native began directing feature-length films in the 1990s with the crime dramas ‘A Rage in Harlem,’ ‘Deep Cover’ and ‘Hoodlum.’ In 2007, Duke directed ‘Cover,’ which starred Vivica A. Fox, and most recently ‘Not Easily Broken,’ which is based on a T.D Jakes novel and stars Morris Chestnut and Taraji P. Henson.Ossie Davis
As a pioneer in the film business and a legend in the Black community, Davis was an actor, director, poet, playwright, writer and social activist whose career spanned nearly 50 years. Davis directed numerous films during the blaxploitation era, including 1970’s ‘Cotton Comes to Harlem’ and 1973’s ‘Gordon’s War.’ Along with wife Ruby Dee, the Georgia native starred in many movies, including several of director Spike Lee’s films such as ‘Do The Right Thing,’ ‘Jungle Fever’ and ‘She Hate Me.’Melvin Van Peebles
This Chicago actor, director, screenwriter, playwright, novelist and composer is most famously known for his contribution to the blaxploitation era with the independently financed and critically acclaimed film ‘Sweet Sweetback’s Baadasssss Song.’ The 1971 film was written, produced, scored, directed by and starred Van Peebles and tells the story of a deprived Black man on his escape from the white authority. The father of actor/ director Mario, in 2008, Melvin completed the film ‘Confessionsofa Ex-Doofus-ItchyFooted Mutha,’ which played at various film festivals.Julie Dash
In 1991, this Queens, New York, native’s film ‘Daughters of the Dust,’ which tells the story of three generations of Gullah women at the turn of the 20th century, was the first full-length film with general theatrical release in the United States by an Black woman. In 2004, the film was included in the National Film Registry.F. Gary Gray
Having directed more than 30 music videos for artists such as Ice Cube, Queen Latifah, TLC, Dr. Dre and Mary J. Blige, and winning several awards for his work, the New York native moved into the film world with the cult favorite ‘Friday,’ starring Ice Cube and Chris Tucker. He then followed that film with another fan favorite, ‘Set It Off,’ with Queen Latifah, Vivica A. Fox and Jada Pinkett Smith, before moving on to big budgeted films such as ‘The Negotiator,’ ‘The Italian Job’ and ‘Be Cool.’ His next feature is slated to be ‘Marvin: The Life Story of Marvin Gaye.’Forest Whitaker
An Academy Award winner for his performance as Ugandan dictator Idi Amin in the 2006 film ‘The Last King of Scotland’, the Longview, Texas, native has directed many films, including the fan favorite 1995’s ‘Waiting to Exhale,’ based on the Terry McMillan novel of the same name. Other directorial films from Whitaker include ‘Hope Floats’ and ‘First Daughter.’Lee Daniels
Beginning his career in entertainment as a casting director and manager, the Philadelphia native worked on projects such as ‘Under the Cherry Moon’ and ‘Purple Rain,’ both of which starred Prince, before hitting the jackpot with his production of ‘Monster’s Ball’ in 2001. That film garnered Halle Berry a best actress Oscar, making her the first Black woman to do so. In 2006, Daniels made his directorial debut with ‘Shadowboxer,’ which starred Oscar winners Cuba Gooding, Jr., and Helen Mirren. Just recently, in January 2009, his latest directing gig, ‘Push,’ won three awards at the Sundance Film Festival, including best film.Mo’Nique
*****
Everyone and their mother (and even the P.O.T.U.S.) seemed to have some sideways comment about Kanye West’s messy spectacle at the MTV Video Music Awards — as if he was videotaped urinating on underage girls; as if he was accused of sexual assault by a Colorado hotel employee; as if he lumped up his beautiful Cover Girl model girlfriend on the streets of Los Angeles … but I digress. Joining in the fray is Angelo Ellerbee, an esteemed public relations veteran.
In an eyebrow-raising interview with Out magazine, the New Jersey native – who has worked with virtually everyone in black entertainment from, Dionne Warwick to DMX, spoke his piece about the highly publicized debacle: “This is a problem! You can talk about how it’s liquor, but liquor just makes you do what you want to do. It’s an excuse. His mother dying, the liquor — they’re all excuses. You need to go and get some help. You need to come to me for a week. That’s what you need to do!”
Another nugget from Ellerbee, who has garnered praise for media coaching and teaching celebrities proper etiquette: “It angers me to think that we’ve come so far and then our black president is shouted at and called a liar and nobody wants to do anything because no one wants to ruffle any feathers. You know what? I’ve got nothing but feathers to ruffle. I’m tired of this. When I worked with Mary J. Blige, people said it was the hardest thing to do and it would never happen. But life is not a cup of instant coffee. It’s brewed coffee. It’s brewed over time. Look where she’s at today!”
*****Before Wanda Sykes starts hosting her late-night show on FOX this fall, audiences will get to see her on HBO. The Emmy Award-winning comedienne returns to the network for her second solo special, ‘Wanda Sykes: I’m a Be Me,’ debuting Oct. 10 at 10 p.m. ET/PT. Taped last month before a live audience at the Warner Theatre in Washington,
D.C., the special will feature the brazen funnywoman performing material featured in her national stand-up tour. She addresses such topics as having a new “cool” black president, coming out as a lesbian, the real Michelle Obama, being a new mom, getting her first bikini wax, health care town halls, pirates and working as an entertainer on a gay cruise. Named one of Entertainment Weekly’s “25 Funniest People in America,” the ‘New Adventures of Old Christine’ star recently hosted the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner.*****
Grammy-Award winning neo-soul powerhouse Jill Scott, Obie Award-winning actress Yvette Freeman and Emmy Award-winning producer Shonda Rimes have some irons in the fire. Scott has been cast as the lead in Lifetime Television’s telefilm ‘Sins of the Mother,’ about a grad student who returns home to face her abusive, alcoholic mother. Scott, who recently helmed the critically acclaimed HBO series ‘Ladies No. 1 Detective Agency’ (now on DVD), will play the mother. According to ‘Variety,’ production began this week, and a 2010 premiere is slated.She played nurse Haleh for 15 years on the TV drama ‘ER,’ but Freeman is a master at theater. This week, the Obie Award-winning Delaware native stars in McCarter Theatre Center‘s production of Emily Mann’s ‘Having Our Say,’ based on the memoir about civil rights pioneers Sadie and Bessie Delany. The multiple-award-winning play officially opened Sept. 17 and will continue at the Princeton University venue through Oct. 18.
‘Grey’s Anatomy’ creator Rimes will produce a Miramax Films project adapted from journalist Helena Andrews‘ upcoming memoir ‘Bitch is the New Black,’ a satirical look at the new generation of young, successful black women in Washington, D.C. Andrews, a culture columnist for TheRoot.com, has been tapped to pen the screenplay.
*****Roxanne Shante, who was recently embroiled in a sordid scandal about whether Warner Bros. Records financed her alleged college education, sounded an alarm about a serious women’s health issue earlier this week. Via her Facebook page, the Queens, N.Y., native wrote: “Sisters, it is very important that you get mammograms. I am not
going to put my personal business out here. But just know I am speaking from a place and situation that I don’t want to see any of you in. If anyone here is a breast cancer survivor I would love to hear from you. Life Begins at 40.” When reached for comment, the former Cold Chillin’ Records rap diva (nee Lolita Gooden), who many consider the “First Lady of Rap,” did not respond. But today, she wrote: “Okay, let me explain. I wanted to share my situation because someone reading this needs to know they are not alone. Or they need to go and get a mammogram. We always put ourselves on the back burner for family, work, friends, etc. Put your health 1st today. As for me, I will be fine. God is good and has given me a guarantee. Plus, to worry is a sin, and I have committed enough of those so I don’t worry. Lol.” Her 40th birthday is Nov. 9.
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Lamar & Khloe Won’t Have A Pre-nup!
Posted by: BallerAlert Can you believe this… Lamar is marrying Khloe Kardashian THIS Sunday (September 27)!!! What has she done in a couple of months that made this man propose? She needs to teach a f*ckin class. Khloe Kardashian will NOT sign a prenuptial agreement. Those Kardashians know how to make money don’t they.E Hollywood has already dumped 300k to pay for this ceremony.Why are they rushing? Is someone pregnant?
