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Tag: Atlanta

  • Gucci Mane: Sentenced To A Year In Prison

    Gucci Mane Sentenced To A Year In Prison

    If life could intimate art, the cover to Gucci Mane‘s forthcoming Dec. 8 album ‘The State vs. Radrick Davis’ would prove to be an irony of sorts. According to ‘MTV News,’ the ‘So Icy’ rapper was arrested and sentenced to a year in prison today stemming from a probation violation.

    The startling news comes as shock to many given Gucci’s unyielding presence in today’s hip hop scene. The Atlanta native, who was named one of MTV’s hottest MCs, has been featured on chart-topping singles from likes of Mario, Omarion, Mariah Carey, and is also expected to appear on Timbaland‘s forthcoming album ‘Shock Value 2’ — not to mention the rapper’s most recent collaboration with R&B superstar, Usher for his lead single ‘Spotlight.’

    Despite Gucci (legally known as Radrick Davis) serving six months in prison last year for failing to meet a previous court-ordered 600 hours of community service, he may also serve the same length of time for his current violation.

    Upon his release last March, he spoke with ‘MTV News’ about his 2008 incarceration. “It was a challenge for me,” he said. “I’m just happy my team kept my music going strong for me. And I’m happy I recorded so many records so people could hear me.”

  • NFL fines Falcons coach Smith $15,000 (AP)

    FILE - This is a Nov. 8, 2009, file photo showing Atlanta Falcons head coach Mike Smith(notes) in the middle of a scuffle on the sidelines after quarterback Matt Ryan(notes) was forced out of bounds by the Washington Redskins, who were penalized for unnecessary roughness, during the second quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday Nov. 8, 2009. A person familiar with the situation says Falcons coach Mike Smith has been fined $15,000 by the NFL for a sideline altercation involving former Atlanta cornerback DeAngelo Hall(notes).

    Two people familiar with the situation say Atlanta Falcons coach Mike Smith has been fined $15,000 by the NFL for a sideline scuffle, while Washington cornerback DeAngelo Hall avoided any punishment. The people spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because the league has not officially commented on the situation.

  • Braves’ Hudson gets 3-year, $28M deal (AP)

    FILE - This Sept. 1, 2009, file photo shows Atlanta Braves' Tim Hudson(notes) pitching against the Florida Marlins in the sixth inning of a baseball game in Miami. Hudson has agreed to a new three-year contract with the Atlanta Braves.

    Tim Hudson agreed to a $28 million, three-year contract with the Atlanta Braves on Thursday, giving the team a wealth of starting pitching and setting up a likely trade to bolster the offense. Hudson could have returned to the Braves under a $12 million option, but the sides focused on a longer deal after the right-hander showed he had overcome major elbow surgery.

  • Appeals court: Vick can keep $16M bonus (AP)

    A federal appeals court is backing the judge who ruled against the NFL and let quarterback Michael Vick keep more than $16 million in roster bonuses from the Atlanta Falcons. The 8th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals on Tuesday affirmed Judge David Doty's order saying Vick had already earned the bonuses before his dogfighting conviction, so the money wasn't subject to forfeiture.

  • Iverson leaves Grizzlies with permission (AP)

    Disgruntled Memphis guard Allen Iverson returned to his home in Atlanta after receiving permission to leave the team to attend to personal business. Team owner Michael Heisley gave the four-time NBA scoring leader permission to skip the Grizzlies' game Saturday night against the Los Angeles Clippers following a 114-98 loss to the Lakers the night before.

  • Is Health Care Reform Going to Cost you More or Less Money?

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    All of us are confused about health care reform. Many of us support the idea because we support the president. Some of us support health care reform because we know that the current system is terribly flawed. Well, getting informed on the issues might be a great way to ensure that you know what you are backing.

    One of the great problems with health care reform is that most Americans can’t trust it in the first place, given that there are so many special interest groups who’ve hooked their fangs into a corrupt and dysfunctional system. Pharmaceutical companies charge incredibly high prices for drugs and work with lawmakers to keep consumers from having other alternatives. Every day, there is a senior citizen moving one inch closer to death because he/she can’t afford their medication. Most of us know that this system has to be altered.

    Dr. Elaina George is a prominent Otolaryngologist at the Peach Tree ENT Center in Atlanta Georgia. In the audio below, Dr. George breaks down the health care reform package that is being debated in Congress this week. So, while the news might be muted by the mass shootings that have recently occurred, we should not allow this distraction to keep us from the issues that are going to affect our lives.

    Click here to listen to Dr. George.

    Dr. Boyce Watkins is a Finance Professor at Syracuse University and author of the book, “Black American Money.” To have Dr. Boyce commentary delivered to your email, please click here.

     

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  • Real Housewives of Atlanta: Dwight Eubanks’ Penile Implant Revelation Revs Up Part Two of Reunion

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    Real Housewives of Atlanta: Dwight Eubanks' Penile Implant Revelation Revs Up Part Two of ReunionLast year’s ‘Real Housewives of Atlanta’ reunion, which featured a previously soft-spoken Lisa Wu Hartwell threatening to flip Kim Zolciak over the couch garnered some of the network’s highest ratings.

    Unfortunately, part two of the season two reunion show –which premiered Nov.5 — turned out to be even less lively than the first Bravo special.

    Zolciak,, was the focus of the first reunion special — with host Andy Cohen‘s many questions about her rumored fiancé Big Poppa, who allegedly showed up to the taping (but wasn’t shown on camera).

    There was a lot of back and forth about an alleged off-camera physical altercation between Zolciak and her on-again, off-again gal pal Nene Leakes too but a real turning point in the show involved a man and his endowment. And we’re not talking about money either.

    The ‘Tardy for the Party’ singer disclosed that Dwight Eubanks, commonly referred to as “The Fifth Housewife” has a penile implant.

    The Purple Door salon owner, who revealed to BV Newswire two weeks ago that he was bisexual, had no qualms with admitting his package enhancement. He even compared it to women having breast implants.
    Hartwell also got testy with Eubanks over his critique of her “fashion show,” but he offered up no apologies.

    Alas, Leakes and Hartwell didn’t hide their laughter when Zolciak took the stage singing her ‘Tardy for the Party’ dance hit.

    Zolciak (to her credit) sang live and accompanied by background dancers, but looked out-of-place on the stage. The mother of two also admitted to being a waitress at Atlanta strip club, Cheetah – denying rumors she was ever a stripper.

     

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  • Atlanta Housewives On Jaywalking

    Posted by: Illmatic

     

     

    Atlanta Housewives…

  • Saints beat Falcons 35-27, move to 7-0 (AP)

    New Orleans Saints running back Pierre Thomas(notes) (23) celebrates as he scores a touchdown during the first quarter against the Atlanta Falcons in an NFL football game Monday, Nov. 2, 2009, in New Orleans.

    Drew Brees and the Saints are so good right now they can't even beat themselves. New Orleans overcame four turnovers for a second straight week to stay perfect with a 35-27 victory over the Atlanta Falcons on Monday night, matching the best start in franchise history. Brees, responsible for two turnovers, passed for 308 yards and two scores.

  • Real Houswives of Atlanta: Reunited, Drama-Free & Leaving More to be Desired

    Atlanta’s Opera nightclub served as the setting for the highly anticipated season two reunion of ‘The Real Housewives of Atlanta.’ But unlike last year’s drama-filled reunion, in which Lisa Wu Hartwell threatened to throw Kim Zolciak over the couch, the Oct. 29 special was relatively fireworks free.

    Bravo’s Andy Cohen wasn’t able to muster a lot of details from the ladies, leaving fans disappointed by the most well-known and talked group in the ‘Housewives’ franchise.

    Instead of rocking her own clothing line, She by Sheree, Sheree Whitfield wore a Dolce and Gabbana frock. One viewer asked Whitfield whether she was a lesbian, to which Whitfield replied, “Get a life. I am okay with who I am, and I like men. Sorry, Kate.” She denied the rumors that she had a boob job, adding, “No, good bra.”

    Nene Leakes disclosed that she still has not found her biological father or taken a paternity test with the man she believes is her father because he is an alcoholic. The ‘Never Make the Same Mistake Twice’ author said she and Zolciak got into a fight because of rumors started by ‘Housewives’ stars from other counties.

    Real Housewives

    Cohen probed about the Leakes-Zolciak choking incident, but Zolciak refused to answer his question, adding, “And so what? We [need to] move on to something else. Like I said, I’m going to say it again, we’ve moved passed it. We’ve had a conversation. I know she wishes me to be successful, I wish her the same f***ing thing.”

    Cohen joked, “Am I alone in not buying this?”

    He refused to let the ‘Tardy for the Party’ singer keep him out of the loop about her relationship with a married man. Although Zolciak initially denied being with her mystery boyfriend, Big Poppa, who is reportedly Atlanta real estate mogul Lee Najjar, Cohen spilled the beans on that lie. Apparently, Big Poppa, who proposed to the mother of two during the taping of season two of ‘Housewives,’ turned up during a commercial break to give Zolciak a kiss.

    “When I got the ring, I was led to believe that the divorce was over. I made a mistake,” she said.

    Of his wife, who is also is named Kimberly, Zolciak said, “She’s fully aware. He is with me five or six days a week, [but] about six weeks ago, I was like ‘I’m not going to do this anymore and here I am.”

    She charged, “I wish you would get the hell off of Big Poppa.”

    “How do you support yourself?” Cohen inquired.

    “My song. I worked as a nurse and waited table at Bahama Breeze. I saved my money and have been very smart,” she replied.

    Lisa Wu Hartwell, who wore an outfit from her Closet Freak line, said she isn’t broke but that she and her husband, Ed Hartwell, downsized instead of living beyond their means. She is still working on having a baby.

    Grammy-Award winning singer-songwriter Kandi Burruss, the newest member of the bunch, was very emotional as she discussed the death of her ex-fiance, Ashley “A.J.” Jewell. She said they called off their engagement in June, shortly after taping the series because her mother and A.J. had a blowout fight.

    “When I look back at it, I see a lot of the things that she had seen, but I wish that she went about it a different way,” Burruss said, adding that she was the first person to arrive at the hospital when she got the news that he died.

    Part two of the reunion special of ‘Housewives’ will feature an appearance from Dwight Eubanks, whom many call the sixth housewife. Zolciak will also perform her single ‘Tardy for the Party.’

    Part Two of the Reunion airs Nov. 5 at 10 p.m. EST on Bravo.

     

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  • Tasha Smith: On A Roll, Coaching Actors & Readying Tyler Perry’s ‘Married’ Sequel

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    Tasha Smith: On A Roll, Coaching Actors & Readying Tyler Perry's 'Married' Sequel
    Tasha Smith     — the scene-stealing diva from Tyler Perry‘s 2007 romantic drama ‘Why Did I Get Married?’ — is enjoying the success of another box-office success story this year; she has a cameo in Vince Vaughan‘s latest comedy, ‘Couples Retreat.’

    Many don’t know that Smith is a pro at acting roles due to the fact that she’s a sought after acting coach who has worked with some of the more popular black television and film actors on the scene. Why Did I Get Married, 2007The Camden, New Jersey native is bringing her acting workshop to New York City this weekend, and is confirmed for a jaunt in Atlanta at the top of the year. (Official details here.)

    Smith just wrapped the sequel to ‘Why Did I Get Married,’ which is expected to arrive in theaters on April 2, 2010.

    “I loved working on the sequel,” Smith told BV Newswire today. “What was on the page in the script does not compare to what we ended up doing once we started filming on the set. Tyler took it to a whole new level. If you thought [my character] Angela was wild and crazy in the first one, you will not believe what my character is doing in the sequel. I can’t wait for everyone to see it!”Tyler Perry’s Why Did I Get Married

     

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  • 2009 Soul Train Awards: Nominees and Performers Announced

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    2009 Soul Train Awards: Nominees and Performers Announced

    As previously reported by BV Newswire, the 2009 Soul Train Awards is scheduled to tape at Atlanta’s Georgia World Congress Center on Nov. 3. In addition to Academy Award nominated actors Taraji P. Henson and Terrence Howard hosting this year’s annual event, some of today’s most prominent music stars are scheduled to perform.

    Network producers decided to assemble an all-star lineup including Toni Braxton, Trey Songz, Erykah Badu, Robin Thicke, Fantasia, Ryan Leslie, Chrisette Michelle, Raheem DeVaughn, Karyn White, Boyz II Men, Ledisi, Chico Debarge, Angie Stone, Brian McKnight, Ginuwine, Melanie Fiona, and Johnny Gill among others.

    The two-hour ceremony will also honor the late, great Michael Jackson, who holds the record for most Soul Train awards won, with the special Entertainer of the Year Award.

    As for this year’s nominations, pop superstar Beyonce alongside Keri Hilson, and Maxwell lead the pack with four nominations each.

    In addition, this year’s show will honor the illustrious careers and musical influences of Chaka Khan, Charlie Wilson, L.A. Reid and Kenny “Baby Face” Edmonds.

    Officially titled, ‘Centric Presents: 2009 Soul Train Awards Show,’ the event will premiere simultaneously on the new BET spin-off channel Centric and BET on Nov. 29 at 9 pm ET. Centric went live on air Sept. 28 via digital cable and satellite cable carriers.

    Below is a complete list of nominees and categories.

    BEST NEW ARTIST

    o. Drake
    o. Jazmine Sullivan
    o. Keri Hilson
    o. Ryan Leslie
    o. Solange

    BEST R&B/SOUL ARTIST FEMALE

    o. Beyonce
    o. Chrisette Michele
    o. Jennifer Hudson
    o. Ledisi
    o. Whitney Houston

    BEST MALE R&B/SOUL MALE

    o. Charlie Wilson
    o. Maxwell
    o. Musiq Soulchild
    o. Raphael Saadiq
    o. Robin Thicke

    SONG OF THE YEAR

    o. “God in Me” – Mary Mary
    o. “Pretty Wings” – Maxwell
    o. “Single Ladies (Put a ring on it)” – Beyonce
    o. “Spotlight” – Jennifer Hudson
    o. “Turnin Me On” – Keri Hilson/ ft Lil Wayne

    ALBUM OF THE YEAR

    o. Beyonce – I am… Sasha Fierce (Platinum) Sony Music
    o. Jamie Foxx – Intuition (Platinum) J Records
    o. Kanye West – 808s & Heartbreak (Platinum) Roc-A-Fella/Def Jam
    o. Maxwell – Blacksummer’s Night (Gold) Sony Music
    o. Ne-Yo – Year of the Gentleman

    RECORD OF THE YEAR (SONGWRITER AWARD)

    o. Beyonce – “Single Ladies (Put a ring on it)”
    o. Drake – “Best I ever had”
    o. Jamie Foxx Ft/T-Pain – “Blame it”
    o. Keri Hilson – “Knock You Down”
    o. Maxwell – “Pretty Wings”

    BEST REGGAE ARTIST AWARD

    o. Movado
    o. Sean Paul
    o. Serani
    o. Taurus Riley
    o. Ziggy Marley

    CENTRIC AWARD – SOUL APPROVED/UNDERGROUND

    o. Corneille
    o. Eric Roberson
    o. Laura Izibor
    o. Maysa
    o. The Knux

    BEST GOSPEL PERFORMANCE MALE, FEMALE OR GROUP

    o. BeBe and CeCe Winans – “Close To You”
    o. Fred Hammond f/John P Kee – “They That Wait”
    o. Marvin Sapp – “Praise Him in Advance”
    o. Mary Mary – “God In Me”
    o. Smokie Norful – “Justified”

    BEST COLLABORATION

    o. Keri Hilson featuring Kanye West & Ne-Yo – “Knock you Down”
    o. Keyshia Cole featuring Monica – “Trust”
    o. Mario featuring Gucci Mane and Sean Garrett – “Break up”
    o. Mary Mary featuring Kierra (KiKi) Sheard – “God In Me”
    o. Trey Songz featuring Drake – “Successful”

    ENTERTAINER OF THE YEAR

    o. Michael Jackson

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    Black Music Notes Oct. 7

      10/7/09: Mariah Carey
      Mariah Carey‘s new album ‘Memoirs of an Imperfect Angel’ debuted in #3 position on the Billboard Top 200 Album chart, selling only 167, 912 copies in its first week of release. Surprisingly, 67-year-old Barbra Streisand bagged the top spot — selling 180,415 copies of her latest covers collection, ‘Love is the Answer.’ Also keeping Carey away from being numero uno; rock band Paramore, which opened at #2 with their new album ‘Brand New Eyes,’ with sales of 175,112.

      Getty Images

      10/5/09: Meshell Ndegeocello
      This week, Meshell Ndegeocelloreleases her latest album, ‘Devil’s Halo,’ and officially kicks off a promotional tour at New York City hot-spot, Highline Balroom. The three week club tour will have the rock & soul wunderkind performing in major cities across the country — including Chicago, Los Angeles and Minneapolis — before her final show Oct. 28 in Bellingham, Washington. All tour dates will include Meshell’s full band, featuring guitarist Chris Bruce, bassist Mark Kelley, keyboardist Keefus Ciancia and drummer Deantoni Parks.

      Mark Seliger for Downtown Music

      10/2/09: Mary J, Stevie Wonder, Jennifer Hudson:
      Mary J. Blige, Stevie Wonder, and Jennifer Hudson are among the artists featured on Rod Stewart‘s forthcoming project titled ‘Soulbook.’ The J Records release captures the Grammy Award-winning Rock and Roll Hall of Famer covering a collection of classic soul favorites, including the Stylistics timeless classic ‘You Make Me Feel Brand New.’ “This is the album I’ve waited my whole lifetime to record,” Stewart stated. ‘Soulbook’ hits stores and digital retailers Oct. 27.

      Getty Images

      10/2/09: 50 Cent/T.I.:
      To capitalize off of its recent batch of ‘Behind the Music’ segments, VH1 has finally decided to take an introspective look at the careers of 50 Cent and T.I. The two multi-platinum rappers will be showcased in the network’s long running series in the coming weeks, which will cover their rise to fame. From T.I. describing the pros and cons of being a hip-hop superstar to Fifty detailing his success as an international mogul. ‘Behind the Music: T.I.’ premieres Oct. 8 at 10 pm/et, while ‘Behind the Music: 50 Cent’ airs Oct. 13 at 8 pm/et.

      Getty Images

      10/2/09: Bootsy Collins, Teena Marie:
      Beginning Nov. 1, TV One returns with all new episodes of their critically-acclaimed original biography series, ‘Unsung.’ The Gary Anthony Williams-narrated show, which examines and celebrates talented artists who are under-appreciated, will showcase Teena Marie, Bootsy Collins, Roger Troutman & Zapp, and Klymaxx in its third installment. ‘Unsung: Teena Marie’ premieres Nov. 1 at 8 pm/et followed by an encore at 11 pm/et.

      Getty Images

      10/2/09: Akon:
      International superstar Akon is showing support for breast cancer awareness month this weekend with his headlining performance at the Think Pink Rocks concert on Oct. 3. Hosted by BET’s Terrence and Rocsi, the star-studded charity benefit will also include performances by Canadian R&B songstress Melanie Fiona, Shontelle, and pop reggae trio American Yard. According to an event spokesperson, all proceeds will go to breast cancer charities and research.

      Getty Images

      10/2/09: Pretty Ricky:
      Following a controversial viral video clip from one of its most known members earlier this year, R&B group Pretty Ricky will finally release their third album, aptly titled ‘Pretty Ricky.’ The chart-topping group, which features Spectacular, Diamond Blue, Slick’Em, and their newest buddy/addition Lingerie, feels their Nov. 17 release is too good to explain. “The songs are too sensual to describe in words,” says Diamond. “You have to hear it to fully grasp the erotic experience of the records.” The group’s new lead single, ‘Tipsy In This Club,’ received a mixed response over the summer when Spectacular debuted the track via his eye-brow raising YouTube clip.

      Getty Images

      9/28/09: Tupac Shakur/Martin Luther King Jr.
      Late rap legend Tupac Shakur may be deceased, but he’s still in great company. His mother Afeni Shakur has donated a collection of his writing to the Robert W. Woodruff Library at Atlanta University Center. The library also houses The Martin Luther King Jr. Collection. More than 150 of his personal items, ranging from rough drafts of lyrics and poems to a photocopy of his contract with Suge Knight and Death Row Records were given. The records are expected to be available for research in the fall of 2010.

      Getty Images, Corbis

      9/28/09: Ruben Studdard
      Former ‘American Idol’ winner Ruben Studdard is heating up the airwaves with his latest single, ‘Don’t Make ‘Em Like U No More.’ The single, which is described as a “sleek and soulful R&B ode to everyone’s special someone,” is featured on the Grammy Award-nominated crooner’s current album, ‘Love Is.’ In addition, Studdard will join Philip Bailey (of Earth, Wind & Fire) and Deborah Cox, among others, on Oct. 21 for the “David Foster and Friends Tour.” The trek kicks off in Chicago and concludes on Nov. 8 in Vancouver.

      Getty Images

      9/28/09: Angie Stone
      R&B diva Angie Stone is ready to hit fans with some surprising stuff! On Nov. 24, the brown-skin soul sister will release her second project, titled ‘Unexpected,’ on legendary label Stax Records. According to Stone, the album’s title is a reflection of the direction that she took in recording the opus. “This album is something that no one would have anticipated coming from me,” she said. “My father always encouraged me and everyone else he knew to reach out and make a leap of faith, and that’s exactly what I’ve done.” ‘Unexpected’ features the lead single ‘I Ain’t Hearin’ U’ and the poignant ballad ‘Think Sometimes.’

      Getty Images

     

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  • Dwight Eubanks: Keeping Things Real Regarding ‘Housewives of Atlanta’

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    Dwight Eubanks: Keeping Things Real Regarding 'Housewvies of Atlanta'

    Make no mistake about it, no one behind the scenes is telling ‘Real Housewives of Atlanta’ star Dwight Eubanks what to do. The Atlanta native went from having a simple cameo as Nene Leakes’ scene-stealing “gay boyfriend” to becoming a main cast member on the second season of the hit Bravo reality television series.

    “I am not an actor. I was asked to come on and be a part of the show and to be real…I am not the sixth housewife,” Eubanks told the BV Newswire yesterday.

    “If I wanted to be with a woman, I will be with a woman and if I want to be with a guy, then I will be with a guy,” he declared. “I like all fruits, but I do have a problem with [people] dwelling on ‘Dwight the gay housewife.’ Let’s get to know Dwight.”.

    As of late, his no-holds-bar attitude has made his relationships with some of the ‘Housewives’ stars a bit tense.

    “I just don’t understand it,” he noted. “Some of the other people have problems with me being friends with the other women….girls harp on situations [like] ‘You said this,’ or ‘You did that’ versus saying ‘B****h, did you say this?’ and going directly to the source of the problem.”

    But, Eubanks isn’t holding it against them.

    “They perceive me as a b***h. I have nothing but love for all of them.”

    What many viewers of the successful Bravo television network franchise do not know is that the self-proclaimed style purveyor actually knew Sheree Whitfield and Lisa Wu Hartwell well before becoming fast friends with his close gal pal Leakes.

    “I knew Sheree and her husband Bob,” he revealed. “She had a store called Bella Azul [and] my partner at the time was doing Lisa’s hair and I knew of Lisa when she was going through her divorce situation [with Keith Sweat] but I didn’t really meet her until the show.”

    As for the show’s resident vixen, he adds, “I was really more friendly with Greg than Nene and we grew to be a part of each other’s lives and it grew to being what it was.”

    These days, the fashionable entrepreneur has grown incredibly fond of the newest ‘Housewives’ star, Grammy Award-winning singer/songwriter Kandi Burruss.

    “I met Kandi this year and never knew about Xscape,” Eubanks explained. “I like her as a person and her mother and I clicked and before I knew it I had dinner at their house.”

    Now, the unlikely pair do dinner together, often, and according to the former Saks Fifth Avenue style director, they have become a sort of adopted family.

    Until now, little has been known about the man that is Dwight Eubanks. Recently he’s been a little more open about his past – telling Essence.com that his minister parents beat him for playing with his sister’s dolls, until his grandmother helped them accept him for who he is. Born at Grady Hospital and raised on Atlanta’s Southside area, Eubanks credits his godfather with nurturing his love for hair by allowing a young Dwight to apprentice in his salon.

    As for his feelings on the show as a whole? “The reality show is what it is. We don’t have to agree. They have gone through a whole season disagreeing. And agreeing is not reality. I like to move on.” There are talks that Eubanks may soon have his very own television show, but until then he’s happy doing what he’s been doing for the past 21 years.

    “Reality television don’t pay no money. I had this life before [‘Housewives’] came on and I have four [mortgage] notes to pay – that’s a lot and I haven’t ventured off to doing any new ventures lately,” he declared.

    He doesn’t know how they will figure out what to do for a show of his own, adding, “most days I don’t know what to do with myself. I know I am a lot.”

    Off-camera, you can catch him at one of his two successful Purple Door Atlanta salons. “I still do hair every day and I enjoy being at the shampoo bowls. I like doing everything that I do. This is why I choose this profession.”

     

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  • NeNe Leakes Feels Misunderstood…

    Posted by: straightfromthea.com

    NeNe Leakes ~ Alter Ego by D. Blanks

    NeNe Leakes says shes pissed off about Bravo’s portrayal of her during the 2nd season of the hit series The Real Housewives of Atlanta and she’s not taking it anymore! Leakes, who is shown during the final episode arguing with fellow castmates Kandi Burruss and allegedly choking Kim Zolciak says it’s not fair that she’s being made out the be the villain…

     

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  • Lee Naijar: ‘Real Housewives’ Mysterious "Big Poppa" Reportedly Selling Atlanta Mansion

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    Real HousewivesThe palatial Atlanta mansion of Lee Najjar, the alleged boyfriend of ‘Real Housewives of Atlanta’ star Kim Zolciak, is on the market for $25 million.

    BV Newswire previously reported that Zolciak and her on-again-off-again wealthy boyfriend (pictured left with music/film producer Dallas Austin) had split. The hit Bravo reality series has recently centered on the couple’s relationship despite Najjar being legally married.

    His children, Katelin and Jamen, were featured on the MTV series ‘Teen Cribs’ earlier this year, where they let MTV cameras in on their luxurious digs. Earlier this year, portions of the film ‘Zombieland‘ were reportedly shot on-location at Najjar’s home.

    According to Buckhead.net, the home, which was built as a summer cottage in 1914, sold in 2004 for $2.74 million.

    Rodney Ho, of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution newspaper’s Radio and TV Talk blog, reports that the home is being marketed through Christie’s and other high-end magazines to attract a foreign buyer. The nine-bedroom estate, which boasts a movie theater, music studio, beauty salon, game room, basketball court and countless other amenities, would be the first home to sell in the Atlanta secondary market for more than $10 million.

    As for his relationship with Zolciak, although the mother of two told Usmagazine.com that they had split on Oct. 14. She went on to tell other media: “We are on and off…very tricky right now.”

    The ‘Tardy for the Party’ singer has also been recently spotted wearing the engagement ring that the real estate mogul gave her — on her right hand.

    There is no word on whether Najjar and his wife – whose name is coincidentally Kimberly – are still married.

     

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  • Content On Demand: Update On AJ Jewell’s Death

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    aj jewell s death
    Two weeks following his death, preliminary autopsy results conclude that ‘Real Housewives of Atlanta’ star Ashley “A.J.” Jewell died from a pre-existing bout with sickle-cell anemia. Fulton County Associate Medical Examiners suggest the blood disorder disease may have restricted Jewell’s oxygen supply and infuriated his fatal injuries. “The altercation played a role in that, and his underlying disease process contributed to his overall demise,” medical examiner Dr. Kelly Rose told E! News. “In certain states of stress, the red cells actually become deformed. They deliver oxygen to all parts of your body, but when they have this sickle shape, there’s a backup or plug-in that happens. It’s especially bad in your lungs.” The fiancé of former Xscape member, Kandi Burruss, died from a severe blow during an Oct. 2 altercation at Atlanta strip club Body Tap. The Atlanta hot spot was co-owned by Jewell. For more information on the investigation of Ashley Jewell’s death head over to E! News.

     

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  • You Think Gucci Mane Is The Next Wayne?

    Posted by: ImGlobalNow

     

     

    It’s no secret how Young Money’s leading general Lil Wayne got his spot as one of the most popular entertainers out today. He continuously expanded his music catalogue by releasing mixtape after mixtape, and collaboration after collaboration with various artists. After doing this for over a year, Weezy released his album hitting platinum success, and continues to be one of the most popular entertainers today.

    It appears that rappers are taking notice of Weezy’s strategy, as Atlanta rapper Gucci Mane is on his way to the top. While in jail, a series of mix-tapes featuring Gucci’s music were released, increasing the So Icy MC’s street popularity. Once released from prison, Gucci Mane set off on a campaign to keep the streets hot and conquer the mainstream scene. Collaborating with Mariah Carey on the “Obsessed” remix and appearing on Mario’s hit “Break Up,” Gucci was becoming a crossover artist and being introduced to America. Not forgetting where he came from, he continued to cater to the streets, as his post-prison released mix-tapes, Writing On The Wall, The Movie Part 2, and The Burrprint 3D, have had both the ‘net and streets in a frenzy. Gucci Mane shows no sign of slowing down, as he continues to release new tracks, and was just recently named the #6 Hottest MC of 2009 by MTV. Below are a few of his recent collaborations.

     

    Cam’ron & Vado feat. Gucci Mane: Cuffin’

    Sean Garrett feat. Gucci Mane: Up In My Heart

    Teairra Mari, Soulja Boy, Gucci Mane: Sponsor

    Jagged Edge feat. Trina & Gucci Mane: Tip Of My Tongue

    Triple C’s feat. Gucci Mane: Trick’n Off

    Big Boi feat. Gucci Mane: Shine Blockers

    Mariah Carey feat. OJ Da Juiceman, Gucci Mane: H.A.T.E. U (Remix)

     

    Do you think Gucci Mane is the next Lil Wayne (in terms of popularity), or will his buzz start to go away?

     

    Until Next Time, 

    @ImGlobalNow

  • Do You Think Gucci Mane Is The Next Lil Wayne?

    Posted by: ImGlobalNow

     

     

    It’s no secret how Young Money’s leading general Lil Wayne got his spot as one of the most popular entertainers out today. He continuously expanded his music catalogue by releasing mixtape after mixtape, and collaboration after collaboration with various artists. After doing this for over a year, Weezy released his album hitting platinum success, and continues to be one of the most popular entertainers today.

    It appears that rappers are taking notice of Weezy’s strategy, as Atlanta rapper Gucci Mane is on his way to the top. While in jail, a series of mix-tapes featuring Gucci’s music were released, increasing the So Icy MC’s street popularity. Once released from prison, Gucci Mane set off on a campaign to keep the streets hot and conquer the mainstream scene. Collaborating with Mariah Carey on the “Obsessed” remix and appearing on Mario’s hit “Break Up,” Gucci was becoming a crossover artist and being introduced to America. Not forgetting where he came from, he continued to cater to the streets, as his post-prison released mix-tapes, Writing On The Wall, The Movie Part 2, and The Burrprint 3D, have had both the ‘net and streets in a frenzy. Gucci Mane shows no sign of slowing down, as he continues to release new tracks, and was just recently named the #6 Hottest MC of 2009 by MTV. Below are a few of his recent collaborations.

     

    Cam’ron & Vado feat. Gucci Mane: Cuffin’

    Sean Garrett feat. Gucci Mane: Up In My Heart

    Teairra Mari, Soulja Boy, Gucci Mane: Sponsor

    Jagged Edge feat. Trina & Gucci Mane: Tip Of My Tongue

    Triple C’s feat. Gucci Mane: Trick’n Off

    Big Boi feat. Gucci Mane: Shine Blockers

    Mariah Carey feat. OJ Da Juiceman, Gucci Mane: H.A.T.E. U (Remix)

     

    Do you think Gucci Mane is the next Lil Wayne (in terms of popularity), or will his buzz start to go away?

     

    Until Next Time, 

    @ImGlobalNow

  • Kershaw, Hamels to start in NLCS Game 1 (AP)

    Philadelphia Phillies catcher Carlos Ruiz(notes), left, laughs with manager Charlie Manuel during practice Wednesday,Oct. 14, 2009 in Los Angeles. The Phillies will play the Los Angeles Dodgers in Game 1 of the National League championship series Thursday.

    The Phillies and Dodgers are back in the National League championship series for the second straight year, making them the closest thing the NL has to a couple of dominant teams. They are the first repeat teams since Houston and St. Louis squared off in 2004 and '05, and only the third repeaters since Atlanta and Pittsburgh met in 1991 and '92.

  • Toya & Jim Jones Hit Atlanta Strip Club **Pics**

    Posted by: BlogXilla

    The celebs came out to show support to Atlanta’s shoe models who work at Magic City, one of the best gentlemen’s clubs in the world. Jim Jones, Terrance J, Toya and Big Kuntry King were among a few of the names to witness the festivities at the city of magic. Inside the blog you’ll see Jim Jones making it rain, lap dances and Toya rocking the mic.

    Click Here To See Original Story

     

     

  • The Week That Was: Shyne not really free at last, Kim Zolciak Really Engaged to Big Poppa?

    Filed under: , , , , ,

    The Week That Was: Shyne not really free at last, Kim Zolciak Really Engaged to Big Poppa?The rapper Shyne, who was convicted of a club shooting in 1999, was reportedly released from a New York correctional facility Oct. 6 and then transferred into custody by immigration officials. Though the former Bad Boy Records star has a green card, news reports hint that he may be deported to his native Belize because of the felony conviction. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement spokesman Mike Gilhooly would only tell media outlets that Shyne was in custody for being in violation of U.S. immigration law.

    Born Jamal Barrow, Shyne was on the verge of superstardom when he was arrested in 1999 for a shooting at the Club New York nightclub. His mentor and record label chief Diddy, and then-girlfriend Jennifer Lopez, was also charged but acquitted at trial.

    While in prison, Shyne (now 30) changed his name to Moses Leviy in recognition of his Jewish mother. His father, Dean Oliver Barrow, is currently the prime minister of Belize.

    Attorney Oscar Michelen, told the ‘New York Daily News’ his client “is anxious to get released and is looking forward to seeing his family and being able to be free to do what he wants to do.”

    ShyneDespite what seems to be a smear campaign from a few mainstream gossip columns, Mo’Nique and her new late night talk show is a hit. Numbers do not lie. The comedienne -who is making headlines for not promoting the new Tyler Perry/Oprah Winfrey-produced film ‘Precious’ – has made history for BET with ‘The Mo’Nique Show,’ which netted 1.5 million viewers for its debut Oct. 5.

    The premiere episode featured appearances from Steve Harvey, R&B artist Monica, Atlanta Mayor Shirley Franklin as well as a performance by R&B recording artist Jeremih. A rep for BET said the show ranked as the network’s highest-rated show for the season and was the number two entertainment program on cable during its time slot. “The inaugural episode also outperformed the competition, coming in as the number one entertainment talk show on cable overall and the number one talk show among adults 18-49 (850,000),” said BET spokeswoman Tricia Newell. The show, a loud and colorful spectacle, tapes from Atlanta’s Turner Studios and airs on BET at 11 p.m. weeknights.

    *****

    Jennifer Hudson is getting back to work. As the Academy Award and Grammy Award winner celebrates the recent birth of her baby, she’s also getting into the holiday spirit. The TV special ‘Jennifer Hudson: I’ll be Home for Christmas’ has been announced to air on ABC in December. According to reports, the show will feature the singer-actress reliving her childhood holidays with musical performances filmed at various locations around her hometown of Chicago. The chosen venues will be specific to her youth; they include her church and the music academy she attended. Hudson’s record label has no plans to release a holiday album to coincide with the TV special.

    *****

    Anna Deavere Smith is something like a phenomenon. Her new show ‘Let Me Down Easy’ opened Oct. 7 at New York City’s tightly packed Second Stage Theater and a flurry of notable well wishers – including Gayle King, opera diva Jessye Norman, Pulitzer Prize winning playwright Lynn Nottage, actresses Dawn Lewis and Judith Light – came out to celebrate.

    For the Tony Award nominee’s latest one-woman, multi-character show, Smith explores the power of the body, the price of health, and the resilience of the spirit. The Anthony Foglia-directed tour-de-force where the McArthur Genius Grant winning wunderkind transforms herself into a dramatic range of characters, all of whom she’s interviewed and impersonates masterfully for the 95-minute play. But this is far from satire; ‘Let Me Down Easy’ is a thought provoking marvel about mortality channeled through journalistic accounts from a wide variety of sources, including fashion icon Lauren Hutton, super-athlete Lance Armstrong, playwright Eve Ensler, former boxing champ Michael Bent, late movie critic Joel Siegel and former Texas Governor Ann Richards.

    *****

    Controversial reggae artist Buju Banton’s concert at the Voodoo Lounge in San Jose, California on Oct. 13 has been canceled. “After reviewing Buju Banton’s lyrics, I was appalled by their sheer hatred and encouragement of violence towards the gay, lesbian and transgender community,” stated David Powell, co-owner of Voodoo Lounge. “There is no place for these types of incendiary remarks at Voodoo Lounge or in San Jose.” Banton – who recorded the song ‘Boom, Bye Bye,’ in 1988, which incited the torture and murder of gay men – has been the subject of protest for his concert bookings.

    A website has been erected to boycott any promoter doing business with him. An open letter to his manager Tracii Mcgregor, a former editor at the Source magazine, has been published there also, calling her to task for saying that Banton was “only 15 years old when he recorded that song.” Powell maintained that the club’s ownership team “did not know the content of Banton’s lyrics. If we had known, we would not have scheduled this performance.”

    *****

    Big Poppa Kim Zolciak Real Housewives of AtlantaSo is ‘Real Housewives of Atlanta’ star Kim Zolciak really engaged to Big Poppa? Only God knows for sure. On last week’s episode of the televised guilty pleasure, the bleached-blond urban socialite showed off the new rocks that she got, and boasted of her engagement to her mysterious millionaire paramour (who has been identified as Lee Najjar). Hmmmm. Her TV show co-star Sheree Whitfield, who recently underwent a downsizing divorce from former football player Bob Whitfiled, wondered aloud (and on camera) about the validity of the engagement since the man is still married.

    A Bravo network spokeswoman couldn’t be reached for comment about the possible nuptials. But until that stone is uncovered, folks can see really how large the ‘Tardy for the Party’ singer is living — the Atlanta Journal-Constitution newspaper got an exclusive look at her luxurious digs.

     

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  • A.J. Jewell’s "Wake" Peaceful

    Posted by: GossipinBitches.com

    A.J. Jewell’s wake was tonight in Atlanta, GA  and it was a mass of people out showing love! Click Original Story

  • Kandi Burruss: Ex-Fiance AJ’s Funeral Arrangements & Other Updates

    Filed under: , , , ,

    xscape secretKandi Burruss: Ex-Fiance AJ's Funeral Arrangements & Other UpdatesFuneral arrangements have been solidified for Ashley “A.J.” Jewell, the slain ex-fiance of ‘Real Housewives of Atlanta’ star Kandi Burruss.

    According to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution newspaper, the memorial will take place on Oct. 9 at the Ray of Hope Christian Church in DeKalb Country, Georgia.

    Meanwhile, Frederick Richardson, the man charged with his murder last Saturday, was denied bail during a court appearance on Tuesday. His defense attorney alleges Jewell pulled a gun on Richardson and drew the first punch during the fatal fight.

    TMZ.com reported Jewell was walking and talking after the fight, with sources saying that he didn’t take an ambulance to the hospital but got a ride with a friend. The medical examiner’s office said there were no stab wounds on Jewell’s body.

    According to a rep for the Bravo television network, ‘The Real Housewives of Atlanta’ reunion show has been postponed, and an in memoriam note will be added to this week’s episode in honor of Jewell, who frequently appears on the second season of the hit show.

     

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  • Hawks’ Johnson plans to be free agent (AP)

    There's a new reason for the Atlanta Hawks to enter the 2009-10 season with a renewed sense of urgency. This could be the team's final season with Joe Johnson. Johnson, the team's three-time All-Star, top scorer and captain, plans to play out the final year of his contract this season and enter free agency instead of accepting the team's offer of an extension.

  • Kandi Burruss: Breaking Her Silence About Ex-Fiance A.J. Jewell’s Murder

    Filed under: , , , , ,

    X-Scape Secret

    Kandi Burruss: Breaking Her Silence About Ex-Fiance AJ Jewell's Murder‘Real Housewives of Atlanta’ star Kandi Burruss is formally breaking her silence about the tragic death of her ex-fiance Ashley ‘A.J.’ Jewell.

    Jewell, who has appeared in several episodes of the hit Bravo reality series, was killed after a fight outside popular Atlanta strip club, The Body Tap, late Friday night. As previously reported by BV Newswire, Frederick Richardson was charged with voluntary manslaughter in the beating death of Jewell the next day.

    According to the Atlanta Journal Constitution, Richardson was an employee at the strip club and Jewell was a part-owner.

    The former Xscape front-woman released a statement on Sunday afternoon about her loss.

    “I am devastated by the loss of AJ. His death comes on the heels of the death of my beloved Uncle Ralph and with both of them gone, my heart is heavy with grief.”

    The Grammy Award-winning songwriter said that she spoke with AJ just two hours before she got the phone call that he was in the hospital. She added, “Never in a thousand years did I think it was going to be the last time I heard his voice. He was taken way too soon. There are so many things that I should have said to him, wanted to say to him…but now it’s too late.”

    Burruss previously took to Twitter.com early Saturday saying that she did not want to talk, but that she was thankful for prayers and kind words she received from the public. In her new statement, she expressed her gratitude at the support she has received.

    “I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to all of my family and friends — and that means my Twitter and Facebook friends as well — for the beautiful words of encouragement, prayers, and the sweet condolences. I make it through these difficult days because of you.”

    As for Jewell, he leaves behind six children. Burruss asked for people to “please pray for his children, his family and [her own daughter] Riley – they too are grieving the loss of an incredible man, son, brother and father.”

    The Atlanta native lamented, “I wish you all had gotten to know the AJ we all knew and loved,” and left a few choice words for the world.

    “I know this is cliché’ but I urge everyone to treat each day as if it’s your last and tell that special someone you love them today. Don’t wait. It may be too late.”

    No information on Jewell’s funeral services were released.

     

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  • Kandi Burruss: ‘Real Housewives’ Star Ex-Fiance Dead After Club Brawl

    Filed under: , ,

    Kandi Burruss: 'Real Housewives' Star Ex-Fiance A.J, Dead After Club Brawl
    ‘Real Housewives of Atlanta’ star Kandi Burruss‘ ex-fiance Ashley ‘A.J.’ Jewell was killed after a fight outside popular Atlanta strip club, The Body Tap, late Friday night.

    He was rushed to Piedmont Hospital, where he later died.

    Atlanta Police Lt. Keith Meadows confirmed, “It appears he was involved in an altercation in the parking lot and received a severe blow to the head.”

    Meadows said that the police have developed a person of interest in the case, adding, “we’ve made contact with him to question him about the incident.”

    (SEE ARREST UPDATE BELOW.)

    The Grammy Award-winning singer/songwriter’s publicist, Lisa Nelson, confirmed to WSBTV.com that Burruss was “stunned and speechless” and that “the family is asking for privacy during this very difficult time.”

    Burruss, a former member of the platinum ’90s R&B group Xscape, recently revealed that she and Jewell split.

    The couple, who were engaged earlier this year, have chronicled their relationship on the Bravo reality show ‘The Real Housewives of Atlanta.’

    Burruss is also currently raising Jewell’s twin daughters.

    “AJ’s murder is horrific, not only for his family, including the six beautiful children he is leaving behind, but also for Kandi, who obviously still loves him despite their broken engagement,” Atlanta-area entertainment journalist Isoul Harris, who has a professional friendship with Burrus told BV Newswire today. “Also, this is another case of senseless violence that’s not only rampant in Atlanta, but all over the country.”

    UPDATED, 11:33 a.m.: Police told the Atlanta Journal-Constitution newspaper that they have charged Frederick Richardson with voluntary manslaughter in the beating death of Jewell. Richardson is currently hospitalized at Grady Memorial Hospital for injuries sustained in the fight. He will be jailed once released by medical staff. Though the cause of the fight is still unknown, police confirmed that witnesses were cooperating.

    ‘It’s a great thing that a suspect has been arrested in this case,” Harris added. “It surely brings a little comfort to his friends and family.”

    In the meantime, Burruss, who’s a single mother of one daughter, took to Twitter.com early Saturday morning to break her silence about the tragic loss. “I’m bout 2 give my swollen eyes some rest now. I just wanted to say thanks 2 everyone for their prayers. I gotta get up & go 2 my uncle’s funeral. I could never in a million years imagine this happening.”

    The Atlanta native, who also changed her Twitter profile picture to a flick of her and Jewell, ask fans to remember Jewell leaves behind six children. “Please pray for AJ’s children, that’s who im the most concerned 4. Im just in one of those moods where I dont wanna talk, I dont wanna b held & told its gonna b ok. I just wanna cry myself 2 sleep, alone.”

    “Right now, she is just trying to wrap her head around the fact that he is gone,” Harris concluded.

     

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  • Kim Zolciak: ‘Real Housewives’ Star Talks About Her Past Working in Strip Club

    Filed under: , ,

    'Real Housewives' star talks about being a stripper.Being a stripper may have been part of Nene Leakes‘ history, but ‘Real Housewives of Atlanta’ star Kim Zolciak is clear she has never been a part of that lifestyle.

    “I’m honest about the fact that I’m dating a married man, [If I’d been] a stripper, why wouldn’t I tell you?” the aspiring singer charged to Life & Style magazine.

    That doesn’t mean she hasn’t worked at a strip club, though. Zolciak admits having “served as a waitress” at Cheetah, a downtown Atlanta strip club.

    The mother of two has always said that her mystery boyfriend “Big Poppa” (rumored to be Atlanta-based real estate mogul Lee Najjar) has afforded her a lifestyle in which she does not have to work.

    Zolciak tells the tabloid that the father of her two daughters, Brielle, 12 and Ariana, 7, has given her “no child support and no alimony.”

    Before her role in the hit Bravo reality television series, the blonde bombshell said she was actually working as a nurse.

    In last week’s episode of ‘Housewives,’ she discussed reconciling with Big Poppa, who is said to make an appearance later this season.

    Now, Zolciak is focused on a new wig line and a budding singing career, thanks to co-star Kandi Burruss‘ assistance in reworking her song ‘Tardy for the Party.’ The single has reached the top 10 dance charts on iTunes, and Bravo just released a video montage set to the track on its Web site.

    http://xml.channel.aol.com/xmlpublisher/fetch.v2.xml?option=expand_relative_urls&dataUrlNodes=uiConfig,feedConfig,entry&id=728030&pid=728029&uts=1254332651
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    Real Deal On Real Housewives of Atlanta
    Real Deal On ‘Real Housewives of Atlanta’
    The second season of the Bravo network reality series ‘The Real Housewives of Atlanta’ is a hit. BlackVoices.com invites you to take an inside look at the major players of the series that has become the latest guilty pleasure for millions of TV viewers.
    Bravo
    BlackVoices.com

    Mel B Pictures

      In this photo provided by Kraft Foods, Spice Girl “Mel B” poses for a photo wearing a T-shirt she designed based on the classic pink ribbon used for breast cancer awareness, after a fashion show and launch of “Pose for the Cure” web site to help Kraft Foods raise money for the ‘Susan G. Komen for the Cure’ fight against breast cancer in New York, Tuesday, Sept. 23, 2008. The shirt is for sale on the web site and the net proceeds will benefit the foundation. (AP Photo/Kraft Foods, Ray Stubblebine) **NO SALES**

      AP

      In this photo provided by Kraft Foods, Spice Girl “Mel B” poses for a photo wearing a T-shirt she designed based on the classic pink ribbon used for breast cancer awareness, after a fashion show and launch of “Pose for the Cure” web site to help Kraft Foods raise money for the ‘Susan G. Komen for the Cure’ fight against breast cancer in New York, Tuesday, Sept. 23, 2008. The shirt is for sale on the web site and the net proceeds will benefit the foundation. (AP Photo/Kraft Foods, Ray Stubblebine) **NO SALES**

      AP

      In this undated image released by Oxfam Tuesday Sept. 23, 2008, British singer Mel B participates in the ‘In My Name’ global campaign calling for action against poverty and demanding world leaders keep their promises on millennium development goals. (AP Photo/Oxfam, HO) ** NO SALES **

      AP

      In this photo provided by Kraft Foods, Spice Girl Mel B, left, serves as the emcee at a fashion show and launch of “Pose for the Cure” web site to help Kraft Foods raise money for the ‘Susan G. Komen for the Cure’ fight against breast cancer in New York, Tuesday, Sept. 23, 2008. Mel B wears a T-shirt she designed based on the classic pink ribbon used for breast cancer awareness. The shirt is for sale on the web site and the net proceeds will benefit the foundation. The woman at right is unidentified. (AP Photo/Kraft Foods, Ray Stubblebine) **NO SALES**

      AP

      NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 09: TV personality and designer Khloe Kardashian and Olympic-level swimmer and model Amanda Beard (R) pose backstage at the Mel B With Ultimo Spring 2009 fashion show during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at the Metropolitan Pavilion on September 9, 2008 in New York City. (Photo by Astrid Stawiarz/Getty Images )

      Getty Images

      NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 09: Ultimo Scottish designer lingerie brand founder Michelle Mone (L) and pop singer Melanie Brown pose backstage at the Mel B With Ultimo Spring 2009 fashion show during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at the Metropolitan Pavilion on September 9, 2008 in New York City. (Photo by Astrid Stawiarz/Getty Images )

      Getty Images

      NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 09: Pop singer Melanie Brown poses backstage at the Mel B With Ultimo Spring 2009 fashion show during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at the Metropolitan Pavilion on September 9, 2008 in New York City. (Photo by Astrid Stawiarz/Getty Images )

      Getty Images

      NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 09: Pop singer Melanie Brown and Olympic-level swimmer and model Amanda Beard (R) pose backstage at the Mel B With Ultimo Spring 2009 fashion show during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at the Metropolitan Pavilion on September 9, 2008 in New York City. (Photo by Astrid Stawiarz/Getty Images )

      Getty Images

      NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 09: Pop singer Melanie Brown and singer Aubrey O’Day (R) poses backstage at the Mel B With Ultimo Spring 2009 fashion show during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at the Metropolitan Pavilion on September 9, 2008 in New York City. (Photo by Astrid Stawiarz/Getty Images )

      Getty Images

      NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 09: Pop singer Melanie Brown, Olympic-level swimmer and model Amanda Beard, singer Aubrey O’Day and TV personality and designer Khloe Kardashian pose backstage at the Mel B With Ultimo Spring 2009 fashion show during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at the Metropolitan Pavilion on September 9, 2008 in New York City. (Photo by Astrid Stawiarz/Getty Images )

      Getty Images

     

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  • Company Makes Money from Deadly Urban Trend: "Sipping Syrup"

    Filed under:

    Sippin Syrup Drank soft drink

    You’ve probably heard the phrase “sippin syrup,” used in reference to the act of mixing cough syrup, codeine, and soda together to create a relaxed feeling within the person who consumes the beverage. The “drank” has become quite popular, particularly in the south, as rappers have done their jobs of giving free promotion to an illegal product that has managed to make teenagers even less productive than many of them already are.

    It was only a matter of time before corporate America stepped in to make money off the trend. Meet the new drink on store shelves: Sippin Syrup. The drink doesn’t use any illegal products, but produces the same “lean” effect that many young people seek from the cough syrup product on the street. Harmless enough, right? Not so fast.

    Officers in the Houston area are concerned that the product sold on store shelves is nothing more than a gateway to an incredibly dangerous and addictive drug. The snazzy ad campaign fully leverages the power of the brand of “purple stuff” being sold on the streets already. Teenagers who can’t get the real stuff would likely be enticed by the substitute until the door is open for the actual product.

    I spoke with Dr. Elaina George, a prominent physician out of Atlanta, about the dangers of seemingly harmless purple “drank” used by many teenagers across the country after watching Lil Wayne videos (and those of other artists who promote the cough syrup mixture being sold illegally). Here is what she had to say about the symptoms:

    “Short-term symptoms include Impaired judgment, nausea, loss of coordination, headache, vomiting, loss of consciousness, numbness of fingers and toes, abdominal pain, irregular heartbeat, aches, seizures, panic attacks, psychosis, euphoria, cold flashes, dizziness, and diarrhea.”

    Oh, I forgot to mention, the symptoms mentioned above are assuming your child doesn’t become addicted. Here are the long-term symptoms in the advent of addiction:

    “Restlessness, insomnia, high-blood pressure, coma, or even death.”

    I understand capitalist models and can almost appreciate the logic that leads companies to find even more ways to exploit ridiculous behavior in the black community. We are an intelligent and enlightened people, even if everyone can’t see the light. But there is also the question regarding whether or not there should be regulations in place to stop companies from so blatantly utilizing an unhealthy trend to make a profit. What if my company went to Montana, where Crystal Meth is a serious problem and started to sell a product called “Meth Lite”? How fast would the Montana state legislature put me out of business?

    When it comes to “Sippin Syrup,” “drinking drank” and getting the “purple stuff,” the bottom line is this: Companies should not be allowed to accelerate teen drug abuse and rappers should be conscientious enough to stop giving this drug free promotion. Teenagers are sheep who follow the examples which already exist in their culture. If we are making the bed for them, then who do we blame when they choose to sleep in it? The new drink in stores called “Sippin Syrup” needs to be taken off the market NOW.

    Dr. Boyce Watkins is a Finance Professor at Syracuse University, a leading black speaker, and author of the forthcoming book, “Black American Money.” To have Dr. Boyce commentary delivered to your email, please click here.

     

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  • Braves surge within 2 games of Rockies (AP)

    Atlanta Braves starter Jair Jurrjens(notes) delivers to the Florida Marlins during the first inning of a baseball game, Monday, Sept. 28, 2009, at Turner Field in Atlanta.

    The banner in right field summed up how the Atlanta Braves feel about this final week of the season. "Believe." Jair Jurrjens pitched five-hit ball over seven innings, Chipper Jones homered and the Braves beat Florida 4-0 Monday night for their 15th win in 17 games, a stretch that has lifted them into playoff contention with six games left in the regular season.

  • Kim Zolciak: Real Story About ‘Tardy for the Party’ Legal Drama

    Filed under: , , ,

    Real Houswives of Atlanta Music Drama Kim Zolciak Kandi Burruss Tardy for the Party

    Just when it seemed like ‘The Real Housewives of Atlanta’ star Kim Zolciak‘s pop star ambitions would have to be put on hold, things have now been smoothed out for the single mom.

    On the latest season of the hit Bravo series ‘Real Housewives of Atlanta,’ new cast member Kandi Burruss of Xscape fame helped re-work Zolciak’s song ‘Tardy for the Party.’ During the first season, the blond vixen played cast-mate Nene Leakes a snippet of a country song called ‘Tardy for the Party,’ which the outspoken funny-woman encouraged her to record. She even shared studio time with superproducer Dallas Austin, which didn’t yield any results. This season, she seemed to have better fate with Burruss, the Grammy Award-winning songwriter of songs recorded by Destiny’s Child, TLC and Whitney Houston.

    Burruss wrote the track for free, but, according to RadarOnline.com, the soReal Housewives ofng’s producer, Don Vito filed a lawsuit against Zolciak for non-payment for the music to the song.

    At the time of its removal last week, the track was a Top 10 single on iTunes.

    spike lee

    http://xml.channel.aol.com/xmlpublisher/fetch.v2.xml?option=expand_relative_urls&dataUrlNodes=uiConfig,feedConfig,entry&id=728030&pid=728029&uts=1254153295
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    Real Deal On Real Housewives of Atlanta
    Real Deal On ‘Real Housewives of Atlanta’
    The second season of the Bravo network reality series ‘The Real Housewives of Atlanta’ is a hit. BlackVoices.com invites you to take an inside look at the major players of the series that has become the latest guilty pleasure for millions of TV viewers.
    Bravo
    BlackVoices.com

    Mel B Pictures

      In this photo provided by Kraft Foods, Spice Girl “Mel B” poses for a photo wearing a T-shirt she designed based on the classic pink ribbon used for breast cancer awareness, after a fashion show and launch of “Pose for the Cure” web site to help Kraft Foods raise money for the ‘Susan G. Komen for the Cure’ fight against breast cancer in New York, Tuesday, Sept. 23, 2008. The shirt is for sale on the web site and the net proceeds will benefit the foundation. (AP Photo/Kraft Foods, Ray Stubblebine) **NO SALES**

      AP

      In this photo provided by Kraft Foods, Spice Girl “Mel B” poses for a photo wearing a T-shirt she designed based on the classic pink ribbon used for breast cancer awareness, after a fashion show and launch of “Pose for the Cure” web site to help Kraft Foods raise money for the ‘Susan G. Komen for the Cure’ fight against breast cancer in New York, Tuesday, Sept. 23, 2008. The shirt is for sale on the web site and the net proceeds will benefit the foundation. (AP Photo/Kraft Foods, Ray Stubblebine) **NO SALES**

      AP

      In this undated image released by Oxfam Tuesday Sept. 23, 2008, British singer Mel B participates in the ‘In My Name’ global campaign calling for action against poverty and demanding world leaders keep their promises on millennium development goals. (AP Photo/Oxfam, HO) ** NO SALES **

      AP

      In this photo provided by Kraft Foods, Spice Girl Mel B, left, serves as the emcee at a fashion show and launch of “Pose for the Cure” web site to help Kraft Foods raise money for the ‘Susan G. Komen for the Cure’ fight against breast cancer in New York, Tuesday, Sept. 23, 2008. Mel B wears a T-shirt she designed based on the classic pink ribbon used for breast cancer awareness. The shirt is for sale on the web site and the net proceeds will benefit the foundation. The woman at right is unidentified. (AP Photo/Kraft Foods, Ray Stubblebine) **NO SALES**

      AP

      NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 09: TV personality and designer Khloe Kardashian and Olympic-level swimmer and model Amanda Beard (R) pose backstage at the Mel B With Ultimo Spring 2009 fashion show during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at the Metropolitan Pavilion on September 9, 2008 in New York City. (Photo by Astrid Stawiarz/Getty Images )

      Getty Images

      NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 09: Ultimo Scottish designer lingerie brand founder Michelle Mone (L) and pop singer Melanie Brown pose backstage at the Mel B With Ultimo Spring 2009 fashion show during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at the Metropolitan Pavilion on September 9, 2008 in New York City. (Photo by Astrid Stawiarz/Getty Images )

      Getty Images

      NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 09: Pop singer Melanie Brown poses backstage at the Mel B With Ultimo Spring 2009 fashion show during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at the Metropolitan Pavilion on September 9, 2008 in New York City. (Photo by Astrid Stawiarz/Getty Images )

      Getty Images

      NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 09: Pop singer Melanie Brown and Olympic-level swimmer and model Amanda Beard (R) pose backstage at the Mel B With Ultimo Spring 2009 fashion show during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at the Metropolitan Pavilion on September 9, 2008 in New York City. (Photo by Astrid Stawiarz/Getty Images )

      Getty Images

      NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 09: Pop singer Melanie Brown and singer Aubrey O’Day (R) poses backstage at the Mel B With Ultimo Spring 2009 fashion show during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at the Metropolitan Pavilion on September 9, 2008 in New York City. (Photo by Astrid Stawiarz/Getty Images )

      Getty Images

      NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 09: Pop singer Melanie Brown, Olympic-level swimmer and model Amanda Beard, singer Aubrey O’Day and TV personality and designer Khloe Kardashian pose backstage at the Mel B With Ultimo Spring 2009 fashion show during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at the Metropolitan Pavilion on September 9, 2008 in New York City. (Photo by Astrid Stawiarz/Getty Images )

      Getty Images

    Now, everything seems right back on track. Late last week, Burruss appeared on ‘The Wendy Williams Show’ explaining that everything has been settled and everything has been ‘worked out.’ The song is now available on digitally again.

    “There almost was a lawsuit,” Burruss revealed.’ “Kim wrote the original version with an older guy and she had an agreement to pay Don Vito for the music and didn’t pay him when she said. She was going to pay him because she has so much going on, she had every intention to pay him. I think that the communication wasn’t right, but they worked it out.”

    Bravo has since released a compilation of footage from ‘The Real Housewives of Atlanta’ set to the dance track. (See below)

    There’s still no word on whether or not Zolciak is recording a full album or if the single was just for show, but next week’s episode is said to capture her back in the studio.

     

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