Thursday, May 31, 2007
DO BLACKS KILL WHITES BECAUSE THEY'RE WHITE?
Knoxville Police Chief Sterling Owen IV was emphatic.
"There was absolutely no evidence," Owen said, that the murders of Channon Christian and Chris Newsom were "racially motivated."
The chief had to be direct in his admonition about the torture and heinous killing of the Tennessee couple in January. Both are alleged to have been repeatedly raped, with Newsom's body set on fire. The young victims were White. All five of the defendants, including one woman, are Black.
Some Whites -- rightfully so -- are outraged because of the perceived lack of media coverage resulting from this racial dynamic.
Police subsequently arrested an organizer after he fought with officers during a protest last Saturday about this case. Alex Linder, who operates a White supremacist and anti-Semitic Web site, ignored orders from police. The Missouri man faces charges of disorderly conduct, resisting arrest, vandalism and assault on a police officer.
Fewer than 30 protesters, but about twice as many counter-protesters attended the rally. Police say Linder was the only one arrested.
While Christian's parents have said they no sympathy for extremists who want to use the racial aspects of the case for their own purposes, the perpetrators could have had racial ulterior motives.
Black writer Earl Ofari Huthinson explores this and insinuates that perhaps race did play a role. I agree with this analysis and would go one step further. If the hate-crime enhancement can not be legally proven, this should not in any way deter the judge, upon conviction, in sentencing the perpetrators to the maximum prison time allowed.
Black folks must be outraged and not mitigate in any way how savagely these innocent victims were treated. If the folks were Black and the accused were White, this story would be huge and we know it - especially in the Black blogosphere.
There would be special reports about racism in the South, how will this case affect the 2008 Presidential Election, and Jesse Jackson and Al Sharpton racing each other to the airport so they can be the spokeshole for the grieving family.
Now if we're going to keep it real, we also have to talk about Natalie Holloway, or Madeleine McCann, the missing blond, blue-eyed little London three-year old that has saturated the news of late. Meanwhile, Black, Latino, Asian, and Native-American children turn up missing all the time and their families can't buy airtime. Or what about the enormous amount of time the mainstream media spends discussing Lindsay Lohan, Paris Hilton, Britney Spears, Mischa Barton, Kim Kardashian, etc....
That's what the Aryan Nation needs to be protesting.
Stop me when I start lying!
I'LL HAVE A ICE CREAM SANDWICH, BOMB POP, AND A BAG OF WEED
While Jamaica is studying the medicinal purposes of ganja, this ice cream truck driver needs a beatdown like yesterday!
FORMER COUPLE: SHE'S BLACK, HE'S WHITE - FIGHT OVER FERTILIZED EGGS
Nearly four years after their interracial marriage ended in bitter divorce, a Texas couple is still fighting for control of three frozen embryos.
Augusta Roman, 46, was awarded the embryos by a judge who concluded in 2004 that she had a right to the embryos created in a lab with her ex-husband Randy's sperm.
Two years later, an appellate court reversed the decision, noting that Augusta and Randy both signed a contract agreeing to have the fertility clinic “discard” the embryos in the event of their divorce.
“First of all, that was consent between Randy and I as a couple, and a clinic, to give them directives of what to do if we get divorced,” Augusta Roman said. “But the embryos were going to be implanted. There were not going to be any embryos left after being implanted to be frozen, if Randy hadn't stopped the procedure.”
Randy Roman concedes that he put a halt to the procedure. He changed his mind just hours before the clinic was scheduled to implant Augusta's fertilized eggs in her uterus in April 2002.
After sixteen months of counseling, the couple still had "issues". So Randy left, insisting that he would never agree to let Augusta go ahead with her plan to become pregnant, even when Augusta agreed to release him from any financial obligation for children produced by his sperm.
“A lot of fathers in our society have children and turn their backs on them,” Randy's attorney, Gregory Enos, stated. “My client is an ethical, religious and moral person. And if he's going to create a child, he's going to insist on being a father, but he doesn't want to bring a child into a relationship that is already divorced and so acrimonious.”
Rebecca Reitz, Augusta's attorney, said the issue that the Texas high court is being asked to address is whether women have a legal right to their own eggs, particularly women who cannot become pregnant in the traditional way.
In this instance, for us the answer is easy. No!
Life's hard enough. Why bring kids into drama when the parents have all this drama going on even before their born. Sorry sister, but either find someone else, or adopt and move on.
MSNBC
BREAKING NEWS: LOOK FOR MORE BLACK GAYS AND LESBIANS IN NEW HAMPSHIRE
Governor Signs Bill Legalizing Civil Unions For Rosie O'Donnell's Entire Cruise Ship
“We in New Hampshire have had a long and proud tradition taking the lead and opposing discrimination. Today that tradition continues,” New Hampshire Governor John Lynch said as he signed a bill into law Thursday allowing gay couples to have civil unions.
Those entering into civil unions will have the same rights, responsibilities and obligations as married couples. Same-sex unions from other states also would be recognized if they were legal in the state where they were performed.
Massachusetts is currently the only state that allows gay marriage.
Connecticut, Vermont, New Jersey, Maine, as well as California and Washington allow either civil unions or domestic partnerships, and Oregon will join the list with New Hampshire in January. Hawaii extends certain spousal rights to same-sex couples and cohabiting heterosexual pairs.
Moving on, is "The View" going to add some color to the all-white girl gabfest now that Rosie's done?
NCAA BLACK COACHES ARE GROWING ON TREES
Well, not exactly, but Kansas State's Ron Prince is definitely leading the way as he continues to bear fruit on the gridiron.
Elsewhere, the number of Black coaches in football and men’s basketball has increased by about 76 percent over the past decade, per new data released by the National College Athletic Association.
Men’s revenue sports had Black head coaches at 22.4 percent of the schools that responded, compared with 12.7 percent in 1995-96.
Rutgers Coach Vivian Stringer , post the Don Imus "Nappy Headed Ho'" drama, is one among several Black coaches in women’s basketball. Their numbers rose from 12.2 percent to 13.1 percent. The increase was even greater for Division I women’s basketball, which rose from 15.5 percent to 17.3 percent Black coaches.For all men’s and women’s sports, Black head coaches increased from 4.2 percent to 5.3 percent.
Although 1,054 member schools in Divisions I, II and III were surveyed, only 782 of the schools (74.2 percent) responded. In 1995-96, the NCAA surveyed 985 colleges and 953 (96.8 percent) responded.
SPURS SPANK JAZZ: BLAME IT ON EVA LONGORIA
Unlike "Desperate Housewives" character Gabrielle Solis, the San Antonio Spurs aren’t flashy and don’t brag.
They just clean-up, and the display they put on at the start of their 109-84 victory over the Utah Jazz on Wednesday night should serve as a warning to Detroit and Cleveland what one of them will be facing when the championship round begins next week.
NBA superstar Tim Duncan and Eva's man Tony Parker led a 14-0 surge over a 2:13 span late in the first quarter, and San Antonio had a 23-point lead early in the second quarter.
Full story
The only thing in doubt, besides whether the Pistons or Cavaliers would be the Spurs’ next foe in their bid for a third title in five years, is how sisters feel about yet another baller hookin-up with a non-black woman.
You got a problem with that?
KATRINA: THE HURRICANE THAT WON'T END
Personally, I think New Orlenas Mayor Ray Nagin is completely useless.
In his first State of the City address since Hurricane Katrina, Nagins said New Orleans is a city on the mend, in spite of failures by, and broken promises, the federal and state governments.
Doesn't this sound familiar? "New Orleans is coming back, whether you like it or not," Nagin said Wednesday to applause from city workers and community members gathered at the National World War II Museum.
With the exception of the Essence Festival returning, the rhetoric doesn't square up with reality.
Katrina Hit Blacks Harder than Whites, Study Finds
Damaged homes and property clutter the streets of the Lower Ninth Ward a few weeks after Hurricane Katrina. Immediately after Hurricane Katrina, national experts predicted an economic boom for Louisiana as a massive recovery and rebuilding effort ramped up on the Gulf Coast.
Well, that boom has apparently already gone bust.
Why this region is not discussed more among the presidential candidates - both Democrats and Republicans, is disturbing.
OSCAR GIVES UP KKK STATUS WHILE EMMY STILL DISSES ACTORS OF COLOR
Emmy Doesn't Care About Minorities
Actress America "Ugly Betty" Ferrera has a chance to make history. Up until this year, no Latina has ever been nominated for outstanding lead actress in a comedy series.
Actress America "Ugly Betty" Ferrera has a chance to make history. Up until this year, no Latina has ever been nominated for outstanding lead actress in a comedy series.
The last Hispanic who won an acting trophy was Rita Moreno for "The Rockford Files." That was for a guest spot... in 1978. Ferrera, 23, hadn't even been born yet.
The talented young star is not the only Latino hoping to grope Emmy. There's also "Battlestar Galactica" admiral Edward James Olmos, the cast of the now canceled "George Lopez Show" and sexy "Desperate Housewives" star Eva Longoria.
Asians are representing as well, with "Grey's Anatomy" star Sandra Oh, "Heroes"Masi Oka, and "Lost" thespian Daniel Dae Kim. When it comes to "Lost" survivors, even India is in the house with actor Naveen Andrews.
And then there's black folks like doctor sistagirl Chandra Wilson on "Grey's", "The Unit" boss Dennis Haysbert", "The Wire" addict Michael K. Williams, "Ugly's" Vanessa Williams, and "30 Rock" comic Tracy "Please Get Sober" Morgan.
While the likelihood that "Ugly Betty" gets an Emmy nod is strong, the chance that others will wake-up happy campers on Thursday July 19 isn't. Since 1986, nonwhite actors in this liberal bastion known as Hollywood have received only 51 nominations out of 840 possible slots in the top four acting categories for drama and comedy.
They've won seven times: Latino actors Hector Elizondo (in 1997 for "Chicago Hope"), and Jimmy Smits (in 1990 for "L.A. Law"). Blacks include Andre Braugher (in 1998 for "Homicide") Mary Alice (in 1993 for "I'll Fly Away"), James Earl Jones and Madge Sinclair (in 1991 for "Gabriel's Fire"), and Jackee "Sandra" Harry (in 1987 for "227").
TV critic and columnist Eric Deggans says the fact that "The Wire" cast, most of which is African American, has not gotten Emmy recognition is proof the award system is broken. "Other than a few standouts here or there, Emmy doesn't pay attention to black people."
And then there's black folks like doctor sistagirl Chandra Wilson on "Grey's", "The Unit" boss Dennis Haysbert", "The Wire" addict Michael K. Williams, "Ugly's" Vanessa Williams, and "30 Rock" comic Tracy "Please Get Sober" Morgan.
While the likelihood that "Ugly Betty" gets an Emmy nod is strong, the chance that others will wake-up happy campers on Thursday July 19 isn't. Since 1986, nonwhite actors in this liberal bastion known as Hollywood have received only 51 nominations out of 840 possible slots in the top four acting categories for drama and comedy.
They've won seven times: Latino actors Hector Elizondo (in 1997 for "Chicago Hope"), and Jimmy Smits (in 1990 for "L.A. Law"). Blacks include Andre Braugher (in 1998 for "Homicide") Mary Alice (in 1993 for "I'll Fly Away"), James Earl Jones and Madge Sinclair (in 1991 for "Gabriel's Fire"), and Jackee "Sandra" Harry (in 1987 for "227").
TV critic and columnist Eric Deggans says the fact that "The Wire" cast, most of which is African American, has not gotten Emmy recognition is proof the award system is broken. "Other than a few standouts here or there, Emmy doesn't pay attention to black people."
Alfre Woodard, the most-nominated African-American actress in Emmy history with 14 nods and four wins, says it's not about being among the "select" black actors: "I think we brought the goods, and we could not be denied. We had the tenacity to figure out a way to make our presence known."Even with her background, Woodard points out that the majority of her nominations were for roles in made-for-TV movies. "If you're hiring somebody for 'Miss Evars' Boys,' you've gotta hire a black woman," she notes.
While there have been noticeable gains in minorities appearing in primetime, momentum seems to be waning. Ten years ago, a mere 2.6 percent of the Writers Guild was African-American. Blacks accounted for less than 2 percent of the 4000-member union of set decorators and property masters. For other minorities, the numbers were equally disgraceful.
As the WGA West's 2007 Hollywood Writers Report reveals, only 9% of TV writers are minorities, an representation has actually gotten 1 percentage point worse since the last report issued in 2005.
National Hispanic Media Coalition director Alex Nogales stresses that until there are more people of color coming up with the stories, the situation will not get significantly better. "Forty percent of all the shows on primetime do not have one single writer of color," he says. "The hard reality is that if you get the number of shows that portray people of color, the number doesn't come even close to equaling the 32% of the national population that is not white."
For African-Americans, the focus is on getting more senior-level producers, like "Grey's" creator Shonda Rhimes. Vic Bulluck, executive director of the NAACP's Hollywood bureau, says one easy step would be to program another African-American family sitcom, like the CW's "Everyone Hates Chris." "Gone are the 'Cosby' shows, 'Fresh Princes,' even Bernie Mac is gone. What happened?"
"When talented actors who are black and white and brown can be in something and it fails and they still get another shot and another and another, like cute Caucasian guys, then you'll know something's changed," Woodard says.
For African-Americans, the focus is on getting more senior-level producers, like "Grey's" creator Shonda Rhimes. Vic Bulluck, executive director of the NAACP's Hollywood bureau, says one easy step would be to program another African-American family sitcom, like the CW's "Everyone Hates Chris." "Gone are the 'Cosby' shows, 'Fresh Princes,' even Bernie Mac is gone. What happened?"
"When talented actors who are black and white and brown can be in something and it fails and they still get another shot and another and another, like cute Caucasian guys, then you'll know something's changed," Woodard says.
Wednesday, May 30, 2007
QUICKIE: IS KELLY ROWLAND TRYING TO HARD?
As a Black man who enjoys looking at bad sisters, I'm underwhelmed by this cover of the "Classy" King Magazine. We know the Grammy winning, former member of Destiny's Child is trying to pub her upcoming CD, but sometimes less is more.Does Kelly Rowland do it for you in this photo? Is it just me?
NBA DRAMA: IF KOBE DOESN'T WANT TO BE HERE, THERE'S THE DOOR
First Kobe Says He Wants Lakers To Trade Him, Now He Doesn't - What's Up Black Man?
NBA baller Kobe Bryant asked to be traded today after calling the team’s front office “a mess.”
“I would like to be traded, yeah,” Bryant told ESPN radio. “Tough as it is to come to that conclusion, there’s no other alternative..."
Hours later after talking to Laker coach Phil Jackson, Bryant backed off. "I always dreamed about retiring as a Laker... When Phil and I spoke, he was optimistic and determined that we'll both be back," Bryant told ESPN.
Bryant, who helped the Lakers win three consecutive NBA championships, has four years left on the seven-year, $136.4 million contract he signed July 15, 2004. That was a day after Shaquille O’Neal was traded to the Miami Heat.
Bryant became infuriated when a Los Angeles Times columnist quoted a Lakers “insider” as saying it was Bryant’s insistence on getting away from O’Neal. Bryant also said he feels owner Jerry Buss misled him three years ago by telling him one thing and coach Phil Jackson something else about the team’s goals.
LAKER OWNER JERRY BUSS CHARGED WITH DUI
Buss issued a statement saying:
“We are aware of the media reports. However, Kobe has not told us directly that he wants to be traded. We have made it very clear that we are building our team around Kobe and that we intend for him to be a Laker his entire career. We will speak directly to Kobe and until we do that, we will not comment publicly about this.”
This is getting old family. As die-hard Laker fans, we would much rather focus on building a new team and winning next year. Kobe is incredible - no doubt. It's time, however, that he steps up and becomes a true leader, not some whiny, self-centered prima donna.
SOURCE
BLACK POLICE CHIEF PIMP-SLAPS WHITE OFFICERS FOR STOPPING HIM
Sidebar --
Ennis, Texas School District Police Chief Kevin Haynes is out on $4000.00 bond relating to his arrest Saturday night by Ovilla police near his home.
The chief will likely be charged with the offenses of driving while intoxicated, resisting arrest and assault on a public servant.
Unfortunately for Haynes, the smackdown was captured on tape and trust us, it ain't pretty:
We suspect a plea will be forthcoming very soon.
What's in question, however, is whether this brother will be out of a gig. Currently, he's on paid administrative leave.
In April, Haynes was honored by Jack Lummus Memorial VFW Post 7106 as outstanding police officer for Ennis.
Do you think they're gonna want the award back?
COURT'S ADJOURNED!
SHOT OVER SOME CHILI SAUCE: BROTHER PLEASE!
An African-American Wendy's manager was shot several times in the arm early Tuesday trying to protect the restaurant's infamous chili sauce.According to police in Miami, some thug argued with an employee because he wanted more of the condiment.
The worker told the customer that he could only get three packets per some ridiculous Wendy's policy prohibiting giving customers more.
The man apparently insisted on 10. When the employee complied, this greedy fool holding up the drive-thru allegedly wanted more.
When the manager came out to speak to the man, he was shot. Merely doing his job, the brother was taken to Ryder Trauma Center at Jackson Memorial Hospital with non-life threatening injuries, Miami-Dade County authorities said.
The shooter fled with a female passenger -- and the chili sauce.
This is so ghetto, family! We're embarrassed for him.
WHO IS THE MAYOR OF LA GOING WITH FOR PRESIDENT IN 08?
We have always liked Antonio Villaraigosa.
He's energetic, passionate, and a true believer.
So which Democrat is one of the most powerful Latinos in America betting on to take back the White House?
Hint: It Ain't Barack!
Find out Here.
TEXAS TRAGEDY: MURDER-SUICIDE LEAVE AN ENTIRE FAMILY DEAD
HUDSON OAKS, Texas - Alejandra Estrada broke into her sister's trailer because she wanted to know why she hadn't shown up at work.
Inside, she found Gilberta Estrada and Gilberta's four young daughters hanging in a closet.
Gilberta Estrada, 25, and three of the girls were dead. The youngest, 8-month-old Evelyn Frayre, was alive but in dire need of medical care.
Alejandra Estrada pulled the infant from the noose and called 911. The child was listed in good condition at a Fort Worth hospital, Parker County Sheriff Larry Fowler said.
Details & Video
Speaking of tragedy... scroll down to our next post
MICHAEL JACKSON: SEE WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOU DON'T PAY YOUR BILLS!
JOE AND KATHERINE SHOULD HAVE GOT OUR BOY SOME THERAPY A LOOOONG TIME AGO!The Repo Man is unloading 1100 pieces expected to garner millions.
THE KING OF POP TRIED TO DO EVERYTHING IN HIS POWER TO PREVENT THE SALE, WHICH INCLUDES HIS GOLD ALBUM FOR "THRILLER."
If you have the bucks, you could walk away from the Las Vegas Hard Rock Hotel and Casino this week owning Michael Jackson’s Bill Whiten-designed red military jacket with the gold ropes and shiny buttons. A very young Janet Jackson's Mae West costume, as well as the original handwritten words to the song "ABC", are just a couple of the items from the biggest sale of Jackson memorabilia ever.
The auction is being conducted by Guernsey’s on behalf of Universal Express, owners of the merchandise. A couple of weeks ago, a settlement was reached in court, and Jackson was formally invited to attend the auction and sign some of the items. Organizers do not know whether the Gloved One will attend.
Jackson, 48, has been living in Las Vegas while he evaluates proposals for a comeback after his 2005 acquittal in California on child molestation charges.
We know you don't have the funds family, but HERE'S the complete list of the auctioned items.
SOURCE
EVERYBODY'S CONTRIBUTING TO THE KITTY IN WILL AND JADA'S HOUSE
Willow Is Ready For Her Close-up
Willow Smith, Will Smith and Jada Pinkett-Smith's daughter, has been cast in the new American girl movie, Kit Kittredge: An American Girl Mystery.
Abigail Breslin will play the title character, Kit, who lives in Depression Era Cincinnati.
The film will also star Julia Ormond as Kit's mother, Chris O'Donnell, as Kit's father, Joan Cusack as a nurse, and Wallace Shawn as a newspaper editor. Other stars include Stanley Tucci, Jane Krakowski and Glenne Headly.
Filming is set to start today in Toronto, with a theater release date of July 2, 2008 - SOURCE
Keep your eye out for Willow. She's going to surprise quite a few people.
JADEN BOOKS TWO FILM ROLES8-year old Jaden Christopher Syre Smith has been cast in his first feature film since debuting last year in his father’s movie “The Pursuit of Happyness.”
In the film “Newton’s Law,” from Will Smith’s Overbrook Entertainment shingle under Columbia, the younger Smith will play a bright and talented young inventor who gets trapped in a science center during his class field trip.
"Newton’s Law” was written by Carolyn Brooks, who has worked as a visual effects artist on such films as "Garfield," "The Chronicles of Riddick," "Ice Princess" and "The Chronicles of Narnia: the Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe." - SOURCE
And then there's the remake of The Karate Kid, also staring Jackie Chan.
With oldest son Trey named as one of People Magazine's 'Most Beautiful' up and coming, and wife Jada Pinkett named as one the most sexiest over 35, it's no wonder Will Smith was named by Newsweek as the next mogul in Hollywood.
Tuesday, May 29, 2007
WHEN BARACK CALLS, WE LISTEN!
Here's An Email We Just Received From The Obama 2008 Campaign:
Hundreds of thousands of Americans will have their first conversation about Barack Obama on June 9th, and you can make it a success.
We know we can’t just depend on traditional media to tell Barack’s story, or yours. There’s no one better to share those stories than you.
Talking to your neighbors can change America. Find a Walk for Change near you, or host a walk in your community: http://my.barackobama.com/walkforchange
If you’d like to step outside your neighborhood and meet a larger group of Obama supporters, there are two featured events in your region. Email the event organizer if you have questions.
Los Angeles - 2092 W. Jefferson Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90018
Event organizer: Laura Velkei, laura@LAGrassroots4Obama.com
More details: http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/4jghg
San Fernando Valley - 5056 Van Nuys Blvd., Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
Event organizer: Daniel Tamm, danieltamm@gmail.com
More details: http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/walkforchange/4jlr4
More than a thousand people have planned neighborhood walks in communities across the country, but they are relying on your commitment to make these events a success. Help them out by encouraging your friends, family, and colleagues to join.
RSVP by midnight on Wednesday, May 30th, to ensure the walk nearest you has enough volunteers in time to receive materials. RSVP now for a walk near you:
http://my.barackobama.com/walkforchange
Local change is real change, so let’s go out together and connect with our neighbors.
Thanks,
David Plouffe
Campaign Manager
Obama for America
HIP HOP MOGULS ARE GETTING PAID, BUT AT WHAT COST?!?!
The List Of Hip Hop's Richest
Last year Diddy was #1...but Mr. Shawn Carter straight took over. He's at #1 with $500 million in the bank. 50 took that #2 spot...thanks mainly to his Vitamin Water deal that gave him $400 million alone...and Diddy has slid to #3.
Panache Report's brief financial breakdown of Jay-Z's change:
Jay-Z's wealth for 2007 is based on the following: The Rocawear sale (after corporate lawyer fees and taxes applied) is in the $150-$160 million range, his Def Jam salary ($3 million) his endorsement deals ($9 million) his publishing rights ($10 million annually) his annual income from his 40/40 clubs is ($5 million), his income from Armadelle Vodka nets him $13 million yearly, his royalties from "Kingdom Come,' netted him $2 million due to a high royalty rate (despite sluggish sales due to downloading ) and his consultant salary with Anheuser-Busch along with his NBA investment nets him a combined total of $5 million-and his $340 million carried over from 2006 brings the grand total to staggering: $547 million dollars.
BREAKING NEWS: WHAT IS GOING ON WITH THE MILWAUKEE MCGEES???
Alderman Charged With Federal Crimes
Sidebar--
First his father, a former politico and radio talk show host, was suspended for boneheaded comments about a rival's dead mother. Now police are confirming the arrest of Milwaukee Alderman Michael McGee Jr.
Currently in jail facing federal charges of extortion and bribery, a criminal complaint says the Black politician allegedly shook down a number of businesses in his aldermanic district -- in at least one case involving a liquor license.
U.S. Attorney Steven Biskupic said the charges carry a maximum 30 years in prison and a $500,000 dollar fine.
In April, McGhee Jr. survived a recall election after facing scrutiny for using aliases and admitting to an extramarital affair.He was also tagged to fill-in for his father Michael McGee Sr. on the radio. Get the full story on Dr. Funkenstein here.
Since his 2004 election to his first term representing Milwaukee's 6th district, Michael McGee Jr. has faced several controversies, including a disorderly-conduct arrest and allegations of perjury.
He was not prosecuted in either matter. Looks like the third time may be the charm.
SOURCE
COURT'S ADJOURNED!
FOLKS WHO GET IT: CONGRESSIOANL BLACK CAUCUS FOUNDER DIES
Champion of Civil Rights, The Honorable Parren J. Mitchell Dies From Complications With Pneumonia.
Mitchell, 85, was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives from Baltimore in 1970 and was Maryland's first Black congressman.
The Democrat served eight terms before stepping down in 1986 to be the running mate to former attorney general Stephen Sach in his unsuccessful bid for governor.
Mitchell was a member of one of the country's prominent civil rights families. His brother Clarence Mitchell Jr. helped shepherd the major civil rights legislation of the late 1950s and 1960s as the NAACP's principal lobbyist, and was known as the 101st Senator. Parren Mitchell's sister-in-law, Juanita Jackson Mitchell, was the long-time head and legal counsel of the Maryland NAACP.
He gained notoriety during the Wedtech scandal in the 1980s, initiating the congressional investigation that eventually ensnared state Sens. Clarence Mitchell III and Michael Mitchell. While Parren Mitchell was never accused of wrongdoing in the case, his two nephews were sentenced to federal prison for their part in the scandal, which involved bribes to obtain no-bid military contracts.
Born in Baltimore in 1922, Parren Mitchell was a graduate of Morgan State College and earned a Master's degree from the University of Maryland. He served as a commissioned officer in the U.S. Army during World War II, and received the Purple Heart.
As a congressman, he fought for legislation requiring local governments to set aside 10 percent of federal grants to hire minority contractors.
Rep. Elijah E. Cummings, a Democrat who now holds the 7th District seat, said that Mitchell, "Was a true servant leader, never concerning himself about fame or fortune but, rather, devoting himself entirely to uplifting the people he represented."
Job well done congressman - Bravo!
ATTENTION BLACK FILMMAKERS: IF THIS IS YOUR THING - DON'T SLEEP!
The Hollywood Black Film Festival,
now in its 8th Year,
is scheduled from June 5-10, 2007
in Beverly Hills, California
WHITE BASKETBALL COACH AT BLACK COLLEGE ACCUSED OF STALKING
Florida A & M's Hoops Coach Charged
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — College basketball coach Mike Gillespie Sr. was arrested Friday on a stalking charge and later released from jail on bond.
Police were called Friday morning by a woman, who said she was stalked at work twice.The report said police have investigated Gillespie several times since March 2005 on stalking complaints and warned the 56-year-old about his behavior.
Gillespie completed his sixth season at Florida A&M with its first 20-win season since 1988-89 and its second NCAA tournament appearance during his tenure.
The historically black university, struggling with financial issues and a recent controversy involving a Kappa Fraternity hazing incident, released a statement saying it was reviewing the charges against Gillespie.
SOURCE
BARACK OBAMA IS LIKE SPIDERMAN: BOTH ARE FLYING HIGH
Obama Leads Republicans in White House Race
Democratic Candidate Barack Obama is the top 2008 presidential contender in the United States, according to a poll by Zogby International.
At least 46 percent of respondents would support him in head-to-head contests against the top prospective Republican nominees.
And this Republican is loving it!
Obama holds a three-point edge over Arizona senator John McCain, a six-point lead over former New York City mayor Rudy Giuliani, and a 17-point advantage over both former Massachusetts governor Mitt Romney and actor and former Tennessee senator Fred Thompson.
On May 27, the Black senator from Illinois pledged to provide proper assistance for active duty soldiers, declaring, "We’re falling far short in addressing the mental health care needs of these heroes, and that’s inexcusable. I believe strongly that there is a sacred trust between this country and those who serve it. That trust begins the moment a service member signs on and lasts the duration of his or her life."
Source
ARE FOLKS STILL WATCHING BLACK ENTERTAINMENT TELEVISION?
Black Entertainment Television is laying out plans for the annual BET Music Awards on June 26. The broadcast has become the highest-rated on cable, topping the MTV Music Awards, ESPN’s ESPY Awards and the Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards.
This year’s host is Mo’nique, host of “Flavor of Love Girls: Charm School.” But “Charm” has become a big hit for VH1, a cable channel that, like BET, is owned by Viacom.
Mo’nique’s presence illustrates one of the channel’s challenges. Despite being the first and largest Black cable channel, BET has developed few bankable stars and virtually no breakout programs. Instead, it continues to rely on old reruns, B-movies and tired music videos.
While the channel has had success with thugs in “American Gangster”, and the
glamorization of being incarcerated in “Lil’ Kim: Countdown to Lockdown,” they have been overshadowed by hits on other Viacom cable channels. These include Comedy Central’s “Chappelle’s Show”, VH1’s embarrassing “Flavor of Love”, and two spinoffs: “I Love New York” and “Charm School.”The original “Flavor of Love,” in which women tried to hook-up with Public Enemy's Flavor Flav, was a hit for cable and a new low for the image of Blacks everywhere. The second season finale attracted 7.5 million viewers — VH1’s best rating ever — and had 34 percent of all African-Americans watching television during that time watching VH1.
According to a 2005 Nielsen study, African-Americans watch more television than the overall population. That appetite for television raises the question of why BET’s ratings are not higher.
And BET is facing increasing competition from traditional cable networks like USA and Lifetime as well as smaller rival channels like TV One, whose major backers include Radio One. TV One, which is in 40 million homes, aims at a somewhat older audience than BET.
“BET does not have the ratings it should have with 12 percent of the audience being black,” said Leo Hindery, a partner in Intermedia Partners, which owns a majority stake in the Gospel Channel, a cable network. The reason Hindery says, is because “It has never developed a soul of its own..."
CEO Debra Lee disagrees. “When you look at our shows that really work, we get a sizable percentage of the population. We are the No. 1 show in black households. We did a fund-raiser after Katrina and raised $113 million, so there was a strong connect to our programming.”
To develop BET’s new stable of 16 shows, Ms. Lee turned to Reginald Hudlin, who made his name as the writer and director of movies like “House Party,” “Boomerang” and “The Great White Hype.”For the new season, Hudlin is developing “Somebodies,” a post-college comedy based on a 2006 film, and “Baldwin Hills,” a “Laguna Beach”-style documentary about rich teenagers in Los Angeles. Also on deck is Judge Mooney, featuring comedian Paul Mooney holding court.
“I want every black person with a TV watching, and a lot of people with TVs who like black people,” Hudlin said. “We want the black audience to start the day with BET and put the remote down at night without switching channels.”
As BET faces the competition, it must continue to deal with the cultural undercurrents of being the face of black cable television. The network has long been attacked - and rightfully so - for glossing over some of hip-hop culture’s rawer edges.
“We don’t allow that kind of language in our music videos. What we air on BET is the clean version,” she said, conceding that BET does permit other unflattering terms for women in the videos it shows. “The good thing about the Imus controversy is that it raised the issue,” she said. “It makes us more conscious.”
You mean to tell me that it took an old white man calling sistahs "nappy-headed hoes" before BET realized that misogyny - particularly against black women - was a problem?
Family, we have soooo much work to do!
Read the full story here.
WE REMEMBER CHARLES NELSON REILLY 1931--2007
This Blog Is Down With Reilly, A Wonderful Guy: If You Don't Know, Ya Better Ask Somebody
And you should start with actor and national treasure Ruby Dee. Charles was her director of choice and close friend.
My personal recollection was of Charles as a teacher and mentor. He not only had the obvious gift for comedy, but was serious as sweat when it came to drama. Behind the quips and laughter he could cut to your heart, break you down, but not without taking the time to build you back up.
My favorite Charles Nelson Reilly story goes like this: Charles was down in Florida with his good friend Burt Reynolds. They marched along the sand to Burt's beach house, 10 steps in front of the front door Burt froze in his tracks.
Charles asked: “Burt why did you stop? What’s wrong?”
Charles replied: “Well I never slept with the Bi…ch so give me the keys, I’ll open the damn door!”
Charles’ one man show THE LIFE OF REILLY was filmed and is now touring the film festival circuit. It’s witty, it’s outrageous it’s touching, it’s Charles.
This Tony Award nominee and winner "(How to Succeed..." and "Hello Dolly"), Broadway director("The Gin Game"), film star and television personality (Match Game game show) was poignant and sincere.
I received a call from Charles regarding a role in a musical he was directing that was opening in Los Angeles and touring the US. He called me to see if I was ready to be “the one”. After hearing the role paid $1,600 a week plus another $600.00 per diem, my response was “I be damned if I ain’t the one!”
Two days later he called to inform me that the role (as a bellhop at a hotel) would be given to a White actor. The producers of the show thought it might be too stereotypical that the only Black in the show would be playing a bellhop, they were worried about bad press.
Well you know what I had to say, “Shhhhhhhhhhh…… Political correctness just cost me a grip!”
Two days later he called to inform me that the role (as a bellhop at a hotel) would be given to a White actor. The producers of the show thought it might be too stereotypical that the only Black in the show would be playing a bellhop, they were worried about bad press.
Well you know what I had to say, “Shhhhhhhhhhh…… Political correctness just cost me a grip!”
My favorite Charles Nelson Reilly story goes like this: Charles was down in Florida with his good friend Burt Reynolds. They marched along the sand to Burt's beach house, 10 steps in front of the front door Burt froze in his tracks.
Charles asked: “Burt why did you stop? What’s wrong?”
Burt answered: I haven’t been back here in two years, since Sally (actor Sally Fields) and I broke up.
Charles: Oh, really?
Burt: “Yeah, this is the first place Sally and I ever made love. This was the last place we made love. and this was the best place we ever made love … Charles we should go back to the city … I just can’t open that door.
Charles replied: “Well I never slept with the Bi…ch so give me the keys, I’ll open the damn door!”
Charles’ one man show THE LIFE OF REILLY was filmed and is now touring the film festival circuit. It’s witty, it’s outrageous it’s touching, it’s Charles.
TOO LITTLE TOO LATE: BUSH ON THE DARFUR CRISIS
U.S. 'will not avert our eyes'
Protesting the government of Sudan's continued efforts to support militias and thwart peacekeeping efforts in Darfur President George Bush announced U.S. economic sanctions against several Sudanese companies and individuals and called on the United Nations to step up sanctions against the government of President Omar Hassan al-Bashir
"For too long, the people have suffered at the hands of a government that is complicit in the bombing, murder and rape of innocent civilians,'' said Bush, again describing as "genocide'' a military campaign that has left more than 200,000 dead and displaced more than 2.5 million people as refugees from the Darfur region.
"The world has a responsibility to help put an end to it.
DETAILS
ARE BLACK COLLEGES STILL 'BLACK' WHEN THEY RECRUIT WHITES?
White Students At Black Colleges
COLUMBIA, S.C. - Michael Roberts has done more than study finance at historically Black Benedict College. He’s played football, joined a frat and proposed to his girl.
Pretty typical, except that Roberts is White.
“When I tell people I attend Benedict, they comment, ’Well, you’re not Black,”’ Roberts said. “But it’s still a school, I’m still getting an education. You don’t have to be Black to attend.”
Officials for the nation’s historically Black schools say Roberts’ experience is typical. Whites (males especially) are being enticed with offers of scholarships, and tuition's costing sometimes $10,000 less than their White counterparts at comparable private institutions.
The first Black college was Cheyney University in Pennsylvania, which was founded in 1837 so that Blacks — barred from attending many traditional schools — could get advanced educations. Since then, more than 100 such institutions have been established in the U.S. and about 285,000 students attend the schools each year.
In the 2005-06 school year, however, nearly 10 percent of students at HBCU's were White. Lawsuits have forced many of the schools — about half of them are public — to diversify their student bodies. Couple that with the percentage of Black men declining on campuses, and you have a perfect storm for these institutions becoming increasingly White, Latino, and Asian.
Steven Schukei, a White Morehouse alumnus who now works as a vice president for investment firm Goldman Sachs, said he gained a perspective that he wasn’t offered while growing up and going to school in Nebraska, Colorado and South Carolina.
Schukei, 30, remembers Morehouse as a “refuge from the rest of the world where what race you are doesn’t really matter.”
While I have nothing against other races going to Black schools, we need to keep it real family. Sisters represent as much as 70 percent of the students on some of these campuses. And I've heard some frank discussions about the dramatic rise in lesbian relationships - some of it having to do with the lack of quality brothers to choose from. Is there reason to be concerned?
You tell us!
Source
BODY OF NFL BALLER MARQUISE HILL FOUND!
NEW ORLEANS -- New England Patriot Player Marquise Hill was found Monday, a day after he was reported missing following a personal watercraft accident on Lake Pontchartrain.
The 6-foot-6, 300-pound player's body was discovered about a quarter of a mile from where the 24-year-old former LSU star was involved in the accident.
"We have suffered a stunning and tragic loss," Patriots coach Bill Belichick said in a written statement Monday evening. "Marquise will be remembered as a thoughtful and caring young man who established himself as one of the year-round daily fixtures of our team..."
Loved ones including Hill's fiancee, Inell Benn, and friends, including Patriots teammate Randall Gay, waited anxiously along the shoreline. They consoled one another when authorities told them Hill had been found dead.
Hill and a young female companion were riding a personal watercraft Sunday in the lake when both of them went into the water, which had a strong current. The woman was able to make it to a pylon and hang on, while Hill was last seen floating away from the scene.
The woman, whose identity was not released, was rescued and sent to Tulane Medical Center
where she told them Hill had tried to keep her calm as the two were drifting away from each other. Neither were wearing a life preserver at the time.Hill played on LSU's national championship team and was a second-round draft pick by New England in 2004. Hill had yet to start for the Patriots, playing in 13 games in his NFL career.
"We are absolutely heartbroken," Patriots owner Robert Kraft said in a statement. "Marquise was a very respectful young man who worked hard to improve and was always eager to contribute to the team, both on the field and in the community."
Hill, a defensive end, spent much of his time since Hurricane Katrina helping rebuild the homes of family members including his mother, Sherry, and the mother of his 2-year-old son.
Details and Video
WHY MEXICANS BOOED BLACK MISS USA AT MISS UNIVERSE PAGEANT
We don't care if Rachel Smith lost out to Miss Japan - This sistah is bad!
'PIRATES' GETS MAJOR BOOTY!
"Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End," grossing $155 million in ticket receipts, hauled in U.S. box office treasure during the Memorial day weekend.
"Pirates" displaced "Shrek the Third," which took in an estimated $53 million at the box office and slipped to No. 2 for the four-day period that kicks off the summer season.
"Spider-Man 3," with an estimated $14 million, was in third.
Newcomer horror film "Bug" opened at a distant No. 4 with $3.3 million.
"Waitress" climbed to No. 5 from No. 12 with $3 million in estimated receipts.
In sixth was "28 Weeks Later," with $2.4 million.
Rounding out the Top 10 were "Disturbia," $1.9 million; "Georgia Rule," $1.8 million; "Fracture," $1.2 million; and "Wild Hogs," $1 million.
Receipts reported by Box Office Mojo.
Monday, May 28, 2007
MEMORIAL DAY 2007 ENDS, THIS WEEK'S FALLEN HEROES
Fittingly, We end this Memorial Day weekend as we begun it . Honoring those lost in battle in Iraq. We began with last week, we know turn to this week, and the 35 names released by the Pentagon of our heroes who were killed in Iraq.Army SFC Scott J Brown, 33, of Windsor, CO
Army SPC Marquis J McCants, 23, of San Antonio, TX
Army SGT Anselmo Martinez III, 26, of Robstown, TX
Army SPC Casey W Nash, 22, of Baltimore, MD
Army SPC Joshua G Romero, 19, of Crowley, TX
Army SGT Justin D Wisniewski, 22, of Standish, MI
Army SGT Ryan J Baum, 27, of Aurora, CO
Army SFC Jesse B Albrecht, 31, of Hager City, WI
Army SPC Coty J Phelps, 20, of Kingman, AZ
Army PFC Victor M Fontanilla, 23, of Stockton, CA
Army SSG Christopher Moore, 28, of Alpaugh, CA
Army SGT Jean P Medlin, 27, of Pelham, AL
Army SPC David W Behrle, 20, of Tipton, IA
Army SPC Joseph A Gilmore, 26, of Webster, FL
Army PFC Travis F Haslip, 20, of Ooltewah, TN
Army PFC Alexander R Varela, 19, of Fernley, NV
Army SGT Jason A Schumann, 23, of Hawley, MN
Army CPL Ryan D Collins, 20, of Vernon, TX
Marine LCpl Benjamin D Desilets, 21, of Elmwood, IL
Marine Cpl Julian M Woodall, 21, of Tallahassee, FL
Army PVT Oscar Sauceda Jr, 21, of Del Rio, TX
Army SG T Robert J Montgomery Jr, 29, of Scottsburg, IN
Army SSG Shannon V Weaver, 28, Urich, MO
Army SGT Brian D Ardron, 32, of Acworth, GA
Army SPC Michael W Davis, 22, of San Marcos, TX
Army SSG David C Kuehl, 27, of Wahpeton, ND
Army SSG Kristopher A Higdon, 25, of Odessa, TX
Army PFC Robert A Worthington, 19, of Jackson, GA
Army PFC Joseph J Anzack Jr, 20, of Torrance, CA
Army SPC Benjamin J Ashley, 22, of Independence, MO
Army SSG Steve Butcher Jr, 27, of Penfield, NY
Army PFC Daniel P Cagle, 22, of Carson, CA
Army PFC Robert H Dembowski, 20, of Ivyland, PA
Army PFC Casey P Zylman, 22, of Coleman, MI
Army SGT Iosiwo Uruo, 27, of Agana Heights, GU
THANK YOU, WE HONOR YOU, WE MISS YOU ... YOUR FAMILY FRIENDS AND A GRATEFUL NATION LOVE YOU.
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