Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Monday, November 23, 2009
WINDING DOWN By Julianne Malveaux
The last five weeks of the year, the days beginning with Thanksgiving and moving through the New Year, are days when we all wind down. Some of us don't want to admit it, citing business as usual. But the fact is that from the first thanksgiving party to the last holiday gift exchange, we have collectively decided that the year is over and we can't do much about it.
This year is different from many others. One in six Americans does not have a job. One in four African Americans is unemployed. This means that our holiday parties must be muted by the challenge of acknowledging and supporting those who are impaired in our midst. It also means lifting up those who deserve the lift up, those who have done such phenomenal things this year that they need a shout out.
I will lift up my sister friend Susan Taylor for her National Mentoring Cares Movement ad for the phenomenal love she sows into African American people as we grow, develop, and learn to heal from our hurt. As she crosses the country, she infuses her gentle spirit into the many ways we can embrace our futures. She is a force that must be loved, respected and appreciated.
I will lift up Dr. Boyce Watkins for his embrace of Heather Ellis, the young sister from Missouri who faced 15 years in jail for cutting a line. Heather Ellis did what so many of us do - went to the store with a friend (cousin), took separate lines, and decided that whoever got up first would hook the other up. How did this turn into a racial farce of utter insanity? It would take the people in Kennett, Missouri to tell us. Here is what I know - Boyce Watkins spent time, effort, energy and money in rallying people around heather Ellis. I am grateful for his activism and lift him up for his work.
I will lift up Donna Richardson Joyner, who has both embraced Bennett College for women and black women around the globe in her positive and joyful commitment to healthy living. Thanks to Donna, we are doing work on growing a healthy garden and embracing healthy habits at Bennett, but more importantly, thanks to Donna, we all have a model of how to live and how to be.
I will lift up Blanche Williams and the National Black Women's Town Hall and the many ways that Blanche is into hooking sisters up. Blanche's mantra is "Embracing Greatness" and she is unselfish about that embrace. She is a blessing and a lesson, a joy and a leader. I am so very excited about their work.
There are so very many more that deserve the lift up. And, there are so many that must be acknowledged as they struggle through these times. I am especially concerned by those who are marginalized by the notion of these holiday celebrations, marginalized by the reality that they have not much to celebrate. What do we celebrate through the storm? Mostly we celebrate that we are still here. Still here? Still navigating, functioning, managing, holding it up. And we celebrate the fact that in the middle of the wind-down, we are indeed winding down.
I always find the end of the year poignant. We always have much to reflect on, much to celebrate. We lift up those who have assisted, accomplished, and moved us more aggressively to a better world. And, at the same time, we acknowledge those who have been tousled by our economy. We ask that all of us do the work we must do to provide analysis as we move forward. We wonder if we suffer from the paralysis of analysis.
At the end of the day, we know that the end-year act of winding down offer us an amazing possibility to lift up and respect our past and yet be challenged by our present. We know that there are those whose contribution has been stellar; we know we all want to do more. We inhale this moment called the end of the year, appreciating the opportunity to wind down, looking forward to the challenge of winding back up.
As long as there are racial economic gaps, there is cause to work, challenge, and focus. When the black unemployment rate is nearly twice the white rate, when black wealth is a tenth of white wealth, there is work to do. For many the end of the year should be nothing more than a momentary respite. There is, still, much work to do.
Dr. Wilmer Leon: Go Home Sarah Palin
Dr. Wilmer J. Leon, Howard University
With the release of her new book Going Rogue: An American Life, former Alaskan Governor and Republican party VP nominee Sarah Palin is once again being given a spotlight she does not deserve. Under normal circumstances Palin would have drifted into obscurity by now; a political has-been who never was. Instead, a sub-par politician with no substantial constituency; no command of relevant issues, and no solutions to substantive problems, is being given air and face time as though she really matters. The simple reality that few are willing to articulate is, if she were not relatively attractive, of European ancestry and a woman, Sarah Palin would be day old bread.
Former Republican presidential nominee Senator John McCain (R-AZ) did not select Palin as his running mate because she was a “rogue”, innovator, or had demonstrated intellectual heft. McCain simply pandered to the Conservative Right, tried to siphon off some of the disgruntled Senator Clinton supporters, and gave America more of the same ole’ politics. From that point until now, Sarah Palin has continually tried to reinvent herself, but continues to give Americans more of the same; “all sizzle and no steak”.
Dr. Wilmer Leon Gives Obama Advice on Policies
Dr. Wilmer J. Leon III, Your Black World
Early on the campaign trail, presidential candidate Barack Obama said, "This country is ready for a transformative politics of the sort that John F. Kennedy, Ronald Reagan and Franklin Roosevelt represented." Socially, President Obama is beginning to move in such a positive transformative direction.
After 12 years of languishing in Congress, on Wednesday, October 28, President Obama signed into law the Matthew Shepard / James Byrd Hate Crimes Bill. By signing this bill, the president expands the federal definition of hate crimes to include those motivated by gender, sexual orientation, gender identity and disability. It also allows federal authorities to pursue hate-crimes cases when local authorities are either unable or unwilling to do so. This law was named after Matthew Shepard, a gay man murdered in Wyoming in 1998, and James Byrd, the African-American man dragged to his death behind a pickup truck in Texas that same year.
PLIES BEING SUED
Five Gainesville residents are suing a Florida rapper, his record label and a local club after they were shot during a 2006 concert.
Billy Dee Williams, Michael Lamar Daymon, Edwin Devasco Faircloth, Steve Ruben Jean-Jacques and Dorian Shannel Johnson are suing rapper Plies, whose real name is Algernod Lanier Washington. They are also suing night club 238 West and Washington's record label, Slip-N-Slide Records Inc., for compensatory damages.
Washington is best known for his 2007 single "Shawty" featuring T-Pain.
Saturday, November 21, 2009
Heather Ellis Finally Speaks: Listen to her Side of the Story
Here is an interview that Heather Ellis did for AOL Black Voices - it appears that her side of the story is very different from the prosecution and she may have reason to sue the police department.
Friday, November 20, 2009
Jesse Jackson vs. Artur Davis
I love speaking with Rev. Jesse Jackson. He walks and talks like a man who has seen and heard nearly everything. Our civil rights leaders are social hubs through which many members of our society must travel in order to reach their destinations. You can’t call yourself a black man and not know the Rev. Jesse Jackson.
Rev. Jackson took things a step further by stating recently at a Congressional Black Caucus function that,”You can’t vote against health care and call yourself a black man.”
RELATED: Jesse Jackson Says To CBC You Can’t Be Black And Be Against Health Care
This comment was aimed at Rep. Artur Davis of Alabama, the only member of theCongressional Black Caucus who does not support health care reform. What is most interesting about Jackson’s comment is that he is right, but not quite. You can certainly argue that Davis’ lack of support for the plan implies that his interests are not in line with the majority of African Americans in this country: Most of them love Barack Obama and are willing to support anything that he supports. The other sad truth is that health care reform is so complicated that most Americans don’t have a clue about what’s going on. In that regard, we can argue that it is difficult for Davis to say that he represents the black community when he votes in a direction that is not correlated with the majority of African Americans in the state of Alabama.
The Latest Black News from AOL – 11/20/09
It Ain't Easy Being Green...During the Holidays
- Now that the holidays are coming up, I always get asked the question, so what do you eat? It's ... Read More
- Posted by Nwenna Kai in Blackvoices Main | Comments (1)
Diabetic Holiday Cooking With the Diabetic Diva
- In 2007, I was diagnosed with acute type 1 diabetes. I was approximately 200 pounds, and had ... Read More
- Posted by Elizabeth Mwanga in Blackvoices Main | Comments (0)
The Single-Parent Holiday Guide
- Whether you are just separated or have divorced for seven years, the holiday season presents some ... Read More
- Posted by Angela Bronner Helm in Blackvoices Main | Comments (0)
Black Friday Doorbuster Deals
- Black Friday Doorbuster Deals are designed to get people into stores early in the morning on that ... Read More
- Posted by Alexis Stodghill in BV on Money | Comments (0)
Idris Elba Added to Another Comic Book Film - 'Thor'
- Already set to play a character in Dark Castle's DC Comics adaptation 'The Losers,' British actor ... Read More
- Posted by Wilson Morales in BV on Movies | Comments (0)
White Women Wear Weaves Too! (And Other Revelations)
- If you have questions about weaves, wigs, sew ins, clip ins, extensions and/or lacefronts -- I sure ... Read More
- Posted by Patrice Grell Yursik in BV Hair Talk | Comments (3)
Health Care Bill Update, Congressional Black Caucus & Oprah: Business News
- Black Caucus Stalls Finance Overhaul In one of the clearest examples of how the weak economy is ... Read More
- Posted by Alexis Stodghill in BV on Money | Comments (0)
OPRAH IS LEAVING SOON
CHICAGO – For more than two decades, Oprah Winfrey has been the inspirational, change-your-life champion who reigned over daytime television much like Johnny Carson once ruled late night.
Now she's ready to say goodbye, leaving a huge void for broadcast TV even as she raises the possibility of more Oprah than ever when she starts her own cable network.
Winfrey told viewers Friday that she will dim the lights on "The Oprah Winfrey Show" at the close of its 25th season in late 2011.
read more click hereThursday, November 19, 2009
Heather's Attorney is Ripping Witnesses Apart
It appears that Heather's attorney, Scott Rosenblum, actually knows what he's doing - the trial is getting interesting.
OPRAH’S SAYS GOODBYE TO ABC SEP.2011
Oprah Winfrey will announce on Friday that her popular daytime talk show, "The Oprah Winfrey Show," will end its run in 2011, Tim Bennett, the President of Harpo, announced in a letter released to ABC affiliates on Thursday.
"Tomorrow, Oprah will announce live on 'The Oprah Winfrey Show' that she has decided to end what is arguably one of the most popular, influential and enduring programs in television history," he wrote in the letter, obtained by Access Hollywood. " The sun will set on the 'Oprah' show as its 25th season draws to a close on September 9, 2011."
How Does Depression Affect the Black Community?
Medicine on Call with Dr. Elaina George, Your Black World
Dr George and Delores Jones, a correspondent for AOL speak about dealing with depression and change through inspiration and spirituality.
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Didn't See the Rally? This Might Not be the last one
Heather Ellis' case makes the top story on the Memphis news - the country awaits the verdict of her trial.
Saturday, November 14, 2009
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Listen to Dr. Boyce, Roland Martin and Tom Joyner Discuss Heather Ellis
Given that Tom Joyner's Show is sponsored by Walmart, this leads to a relatively awkward conversation!
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Black News: Black Kids Told to Pick Cotton in front of their White Classmates
A history lesson that asked black elementary students to act like slaves has sparked protests from parents and teachers at a North Carolina school Wednesday.
During a field trip to Latta Plantation, three students from Rea View Elementary in Waxhaw were chosen by tour guide Ian Campbell to wear bags and mimic picking cotton while their white classmates looked on, WSOC-TV, Charlotte, reported Friday.
Many of the teachers and parents from the elementary school said they plan on writing the leaders of the plantation regarding the racially insensitive history lesson.
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Black News: Prosecutor Removes Himself from the Heather Ellis Case
Heather Ellis is shown alongside her mother, Hester Ellis, outside the Justice Center at Bloomfield last month following her pre-trial hearing in a case that has gained national attention. At right is Ellis' attorney, Timothy Hunsaker from the St. Louis firm of Rosenblum, Schwartz, Rogers and Glass. Also pictured (at left) is an unidentified member of the American Civil Liberties Union.
(Staff photo by Noreen Hyslop)
A motion filed in a Dunklin County courtroom brings a new twist to the case against Heather Ellis, a case that has garnered national media attention.
Ellis, an African-American woman from Kennett, is charged in connection with an incident at the Kennett Walmart in 2007 during which she was arrested and charged with two counts of the Class C felony assault on a law enforcement officer, one count of the Class B misdemeanor peace disturbance and one count of the Class A misdemeanor resisting arrest. Ellis was charged as a result of a scuffle that broke out in a checkout line at the store, following Ellis being accused by associates employed by Walmart of cutting in line.
The motion in question, filed by Ellis' attorney on November 2, involves Ellis' legal representation requesting Dunklin County Prosecuting Attorney Stephen Sokoloff to recuse himself from the case.
Click to read.Saturday, November 7, 2009
Rapper Vigalantee Weighs in on Jay Z's Beef with Beanie Sigal
The Kansas City Rapper Vigalantee weighs in on the beef between Jay Z and Beanie Sigal - Did Jay Z get him fired?
Sirius/XM Satellite Host Dr. Wilmer Leon Talks about Heather's Case
Listen as Dr. Wilmer Leon speaks with Elliot Millner and Pastor Nathaniel Ellis about Heather's trial.
Friday, November 6, 2009
Dr. Elaina George: What do we Make of the Health Care bill?
This show is an interview between Dr. Elaina George and Dr Emelita Breyer. Dr. Breyer is from the Breyer Foundation, an independent organization dedicated to finding solutions to health care reform that does not add to the deficit, or raise money on the backs of the people through taxation.
She has a thorough understanding of the sanctity of the doctor patient relationship. And has real solutions that will protect the things that make the US healthcare system the best in the world.
Thursday, November 5, 2009
Media Coverage on the Heather Ellis Trial Continues
CNN is going to interview Dr. Boyce Watkins on Friday, and Fox 5 has jumped on the case.
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Black Health with Dr. Deborah Stroman
by Dr. Deborah Stroman, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Got Sugar in the Blood? Change Your Lifestyle Today!
Do you remember your elders speaking about “sugar in the blood”? Do you have a friend or family member who suffers from diabetes? The importance of understanding high blood sugar is critical to the management of our often fast-paced, unhealthy, and stressful lives. A few years ago I had the opportunity to visit the “Bodies – The Exhibition” and experienced the most engaging presentation on the anatomy and pathology of the human body. Cadavers, adult and fetus, were on display to showcase the miracle of the body and the importance of good health and exercise. This poignant visit, which highlighted all of our major bodily systems, provides the inspiration to urgently share information regarding sugar – the crack cocaine of the Black of the community!
Christopher Metzler Spars with Bill O'Reilly
Dr. Christopher Metzler at Georgetown University spars with Bill O'Reilly over President Obama's position on race relations.
Monday, November 2, 2009
Your Black News from AOL - 11/2/09
Oprah Winfrey's Push for the 'Preciouses of the World'
- PUSH novel As powerful and influential as Oprah Winfrey is, it's takes a deep subject matter to get ... Read More
- Posted by Wilson Morales in BV on Movies | Comments (1)
Who Owns the Black Haircare Industry? Not Black People
- I was intrigued by a recent call for a boycott of non-black beauty supply stores by Professor Devin ... Read More
- Posted by Boyce Watkins, PhD in BV on Money | Comments (1)
Economic Recovery Definition: Is the Economy Really Getting Better?
- What is the definition of an economic recovery? This is the hot finance topic of the week. As the ... Read More
- Posted by Alexis Stodghill in BV on Money | Comments (0)
Atlanta Poised to Elect Its First White Mayor in 36 years: Polls
- You'd expect Atlanta's leading mayoral candidate, Mary Norwood, to employ Barack Obama's campaign ... Read More
- Posted by Carmen Dixon in BV Black Spin | Comments (0)
Celebrity Halloween Costumes: What Where Nick & Mariah, Rihanna, Selita Ebanks & More Wear?
- You bought the wig, searched the accessories and even sprung for the expensive make up you knew ... Read More
- Posted by Zandile Blay in BV on Style | Comments (0)
White Woman Terrorizes Black Deputy Over Traffic Citation
- Julie Hubbard, 44, was stopped by a sheriff's deputy in DeLand, Fla., after making an illegal ... Read More
- Posted by Ruth Manuel-Logan in Blackvoices Autos | Comments (3)
Rev. Al Sharpton's Ex-Wife and Daughter Arrested Over Traffic Stop Dispute
- Civil rights activist Rev. Al Sharpton's ex-wife, Kathy Jordan, and daughter, Dominique (pictured ... Read More
- Posted by Ruth Manuel-Logan in Blackvoices Autos | Comments (0)
50 Cent 'Baby By Me' Video Premieres, Album Date Pushed Up
- Get Rich or Die Tryin Despite his forthcoming album, 'Before I Self Destruct,' leaking nearly a ... Read More
- Posted by Brennan Williams in BV Newswire | Comments (0)
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Dr. Boyce Watkins Discusses the Heather Ellis Case
Dr Boyce Watkins discusses the Heather Ellis Case, the rally and plans to find justice for Heather and her family.
Dr. Elaina George Discusses Swine Flu on Michael Baisden - 10/20/09
Dr. Elaina and Michael Baisden break down the hype and misinformation about the Swine flu.
The Latest From News One – 10/27/09
NFL Player Larry Johnson Apologizes For Using Anti-Gay Slur
By Associated Press October 27, 2009 5:37 pm
Read more about NFL Player Larry Johnson Apologizes For Using Anti-Gay Slur
TAGS: homosexuality, NFL
ENTERTAINMENT
Disney’s First Black Princess Arrives At Theme Park
By News One October 27, 2009 5:07 pm
Read more about Disney’s First Black Princess Arrives At Theme Park
TAGS: Disney
NATION
BIZARRE: Col. Sanders Bypasses Security, Enters United Nations
By News One October 27, 2009 4:38 pm
Read more about BIZARRE: Col. Sanders Bypasses Security, Enters United Nations
TAGS: bizarre news, Colonel Sanders, KFC, United Nations
NATION
HBCUs Quietly Wage War Against Gangsta Rap
By News One October 27, 2009 3:40 pm
Read more about HBCUs Quietly Wage War Against Gangsta Rap
TAGS: black students, HBCUs, hip hop, protests
NATION
OPINION: Three Reasons Spike Lee Is Wrong About Tyler Perry
By Dr. Boyce Watkins October 27, 2009 2:54 pm
Read more about OPINION: Three Reasons Spike Lee Is Wrong About Tyler Perry
TAGS: Movies, Spike Lee, Tyler Perry
NATION
RNC Under Fire For Racist Obama Facebook Picture
By News One October 27, 2009 2:12 pm
Read more about RNC Under Fire For Racist Obama Facebook Picture
TAGS: Barack Obama, facebook, GOP, racism
NATION
Morehouse President Responds To Dress Code Controversy
By News One October 27, 2009 1:50 pm
Read more about Morehouse President Responds To Dress Code Controversy
NATION
Police: Man Charged With Stabbing Death Of UConn Player
By Associated Press October 27, 2009 1:28 pm
Read more about Police: Man Charged With Stabbing Death Of UConn Player
TAGS: campus violence, Jasper Howard, UConn, youth violence
Tyler Perry vs. Spike Lee
Watch Tyler Perry defend himself against Spike Lee's accusations of buffoonery on 60 minutes
Monday, October 26, 2009
SARAH PALIN ON THE OPRAH SHOW
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Former GOP Vice Presidential candidate Sarah Palin and talk show host Oprah Winfrey will finally meet face to face on Monday, Nov. 16, when the hockey mom is due to appear on the show to promote her new book.
The appearance comes after months of accusations that Winfrey, a proud supporter of Palin's Democratic presidential rival Barack Obama, was refusing to interview the former Alaska governor.
Sunday, October 25, 2009
Walter Currie Lives Near Heather Ellis - Set on Fire by a White Kid
To give you a picture of the location in which Heather Ellis fights for her freedom, meet Walter Currie, a 15-year old in nearby Poplar Bluff, who was set on fire by his classmates with the attacker allegedly yelling the words "Burn nigger burn" while he did it - visit SaveHeatherEllis.com.
Updates on The Heather Ellis Case
Heather Ellis is a college student facing15 years in prison for cutting line at Walmart - visit www.SaveHeatherEllis.com for more details on the national protest to be held in Kennett, MO on November 14.
Saturday, October 24, 2009
Dr Boyce Web Chat: Megan Williams is Definitely a Liar
No matter what, Megan Williams is definitely a liar - the question is what did she lie about?
Lil Wayne's Cars: This is What He Had at the Age of 19!
Yes, it appears that Lil Wayne has made some money - we only hope he's been saving it.
Friday, October 23, 2009
Chris Rock Good Hair: Did It Bomb at Theatres?
Chris Rock is very emotional about criticism he has received since releasing good hair, saying that he disrespects black women and said that Oprah Winfrey looks like a slave - is any of this true?
Thursday, October 22, 2009
More Developments in the Heather Ellis Walmart Trial – She Faces 15 Years for Cutting Line
Heather Ellis, arm-in-arm with her mother, Hester Ellis, exits the Stoddard County Justice Center Wednesday afternoon following a pre-trial hearing in a case that has gained national attention.
Staff photos by Corey Noles
Case garners national attention, support from ACLU, NAACP and SCLC
A hearing in Bloomfield Wednesday afternoon brought out protestors including members of the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) and the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP).
The case against Heather Renae Ellis of Kennett has garnered national attention from such groups as she tells her side of a story stemming from a Jan. 6, 2007 incident at the Kennett Walmart.
Heather Ellis (second from left with head bowed), gathered with supporters in a circle of prayer following Wednesday's court proceedings. About a dozen people representing family, friends, ACLU members and representatives of the NAACP, were present in the Stoddard County courtroom for Ellis' pre-trial proceeding. Leading the group prayer, at left, is Rev. Dwight Montgomery of Memphis, with the Southern Christian Leadership Conference
As soon as court began, Judge Joe Satterfield made it clear that he would not tolerate any bad behavior in his courtroom.
"I know emotions have been high in this case," he said. "However, any outbursts will be dealt with swiftly."
Click to read.Black Health Tip: Avoid the Whites in Your Food
by Dr. Deborah Stroman, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Do you need a simple rule to begin a smart nutrition routine? Try to make a change in your diet by “avoiding the whites” – those additives that supposedly will make your food taste just right or have the right consistency. To live well and be healthy, we need to make changes that may feel uncomfortable at first and possibly illogical to friends and family.
Salt, according to the Center for Science in the Public Interest, accounts for nearly 150,000 premature deaths every year primarily due to complications from high blood pressure. We do need ~ 6g of salt per day to live. Sadly, the average intake of salt is between 9g and 10g a day! Salt is a commonly occurring mineral, the technical name of which is sodium chloride. It is the sodium part of salt that is important. Sodium helps to maintain the concentration of body fluids at correct levels. It also plays a central role in the transmission of electrical impulses in the nerves, and helps cells process nutrients.
Posted by YBW Familyat 6:36 PM0 comments
Labels: afrian american health, african american doctors, african american health, african american women, black doctors, black health
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Shocker: Man Arrested for Being Naked In His Own House?
You might want to think twice before getting naked in your house - a man faces a year in jail for being naked in his own house.
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Monday, October 19, 2009
Woman Teaches Kids in Jail How to Get It Together with Beats, Rhymes and Poetry
T. Denise Manning is emerging as a leader for at-risk youth and teaching them how to get it together using a microphone, pad and pen as their weapons of choice.
Natural Remedies for the Swine Flu - Dr. Elaina George
Dr. Elaina George shares natural cures for the swine flu.
Your Black News - Racism? Boy Gets Set on Fire by His Classmates
Date: Wednesday, July 15, 2009, 5:23 am
By: Denise Stewart, BlackAmericaWeb.com
A black Missouri teen, who last month was doused with gasoline and set afire by two white schoolmates, now faces charges himself as he recovers from burns over most of his body.
Walter Currie Jr., a 15-year-old in Poplar Bluff, Mo., was burned on June 13 after an exchange with two teens with whom he reportedly had a previous altercation.
The youth who allegedly doused him with the gasoline and lit the fuel has been charged with assault as a juvenile, Currie’s parents said.
On July 6, several weeks after the incident, authorities gave Currie and his parents notice that he is being charged in connection with another incident where a teen related to the youth who set him afire was hit in the face, said Winonia Currie, Walter’s mother.
“All of a sudden, they decided to charge him with something that happened on June 10, but Walter said he didn’t have anything to do with it,” she said.
Because all of the people involved are juveniles, court officials in Butler County, Missouri said they can give only limited details on the incidents and cannot discuss names.
“I can tell you that there are charges against everyone involved,” Lesi Smith, chief juvenile officer for Butler County, told BlackAmericaWeb.com.
Balloon Boy Busts His Parents on National TV
The "Balloon Boy" hoax was revealed on CNN, as the boy blurts out the truth on national TV - his parents appear to be embarrassed.
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Woman Threatened by KKK after Leaving Walmart – She Faces 15 Years in Prison for Cutting Line
by Dr. Boyce Watkins, AOL Black Voices, Syracuse University, TheGrio.com
I mentioned the story before about Heather Ellis, the young woman who was threatened by the KKK after protesting about her arrest that took place in a Walmart store. The story was quite interesting in that Ellis now faces 15 years in prison for effectively cutting line at a Walmart. The unfortunate events occurred when Ellis was shopping with a cousin in Kennett, Missouri.
Heather and her cousin went to separate lines and when her cousin found the shorter line, Heather joined him. Ellis was then accused of cutting line by the person checking out customers, which led to an altercation. When Ellis was asked to leave the store, she argued with the managers, which led to the police being called. Ellis was eventually charged with disturbing the peace, resisting arrest and two counts of assaulting a police officer.
If that link doesn’t work, please click here.
Monday, October 12, 2009
Obama Getting Chewed up by Comedians
"That's pretty amazing, winning the Nobel Peace Prize," Jay Leno said Friday night of President Barack Obama's latest accolade. "Ironically, his biggest accomplishment as president so far ... winning the Nobel Peace Prize."
That joke may be indicative of the TV comedy world sharpening its arrows a bit more when the current occupant of the White House is the target, The New York Times reports.
President Barack Obama Awarded Nobel Peace Prize
The Times quotes Bob Lichter, who has tracked themes in late-night humor for 21 years, as saying "it will be telling to see how the comedians treat" the president's winning the peace prize: Is there now a caricature taking hold of a man more celebrated than accomplished?
Lichter, of George Mason University's Center for Media and Public Affairs, said it was too soon to tell whether the Oct. 3 Saturday Night Live skit suggesting that Obama has accomplished nothing is a "harbinger" or not. "The danger is that Mr. Obama is going to be defined by inaction and not living up to expectations," he said.
Click to read.KKK Gets Involved with Black Student's Walmart Case
The Ku Klux Klan threatened the student who rallied in response to facing 15 years in prison for cutting line at Walmart.
Dr Boyce Watkins: 15 Years for Cutting Line at Walmart?
by Dr. Boyce Watkins, Syracuse University, AOL Black Voices
In case you haven’t heard, there is a young woman in Kennett, Missouri who has gone through one of our worst nightmares. Three years ago, Heather Ellis was in a local Walmart shopping with her cousin. The two cousins decided to go in separate directions to find the shortest line. After seeing that her cousin’s line was shorter, Heather went to join him. That’s when things got strange.
Heather was accused of cutting line and the security guard was notified. According to Heather, she and her cousin repeatedly informed the guard that they were together, but that didn’t seem to matter. The police affidavit claims that Ellis was loud, belligerent and cursing when she was told to leave the store.
After police arrived, Ellis was taken to jail in front of her family. Her aunt, Lily Blackmon, arrived on the scene after receiving a call from her son about the incident. According to Blackmon, her niece’s head was being slammed against the police car and the officer only said “she cursed,” when asked why she was being treated so harshly.
Ellis was charged with disturbing the peace, trespassing, resisting arrest and two counts of assaulting a police officer. The young college student was then offered a plea bargain from Dunklin County Prosecutor, Stephen Sokoloff. The felony counts were reduced to one misdemeanor of disturbing the peace. However, Heather’s aunt believes that the offer was made so the family would not sue the police department.
Heather refused to take the plea deal, since she says she’d be lying if she admitted to committing a crime that day. Eleven months after the incident, the misdemeanor was surprisingly dropped. While this might seem to be good news, it wasn’t. The misdemeanors have been replaced by felony assault charges, carrying a maximum sentence of 15-years in prison.
Heather believes that the pending felonies have cost her two jobs and the chance to get into medical school. She still refuses to sign the plea deal. Either way, she has a reason to fight, and I want to fight with her. Heather’s case speaks to all of us: most of us have jumped the line at Walmart to be with a relative, and most of us know what it’s like to experience police abuse of authority. No matter how much cursing Heather might have done that day, she doesn’t deserve to go to prison. Also, if the prosecutor can reduce major felonies to one tiny misdemeanor, he could have dropped all the charges and let this woman go on with her education.
Dr. Boyce Watkins is a Professor at Syracuse University and founder of The Your Black World Coalition. To follow Dr Boyce on Twitter, please click here.
Fenorris Pearson and Steve Harvey Talk about Success
by Fenorris Pearson, CEO Global Consumer Innovation, Inc.
If you measure some of today’s top performers by yesterday’s gold standards, they simply wouldn’t measure up. Industry icons, business mavericks and game changers like Bill Gates, Walt Disney, Richard Branson, Steve Jobs, Rachel Ray and Michael Dell didn’t finish school or have a great education; and based on those two metrics alone, no one could have measured their full potential. By focusing only on such metrics, you might be missing the most valuable components of a person’s engine of success.
As a guest on Steve Harvey’s show, I was recently talking about success, potential and the wide gap between good grades and pure genius. Steve said something that I’ll never forget. When coming up “the hard way” he would interview for jobs or audition for various roles and, based on purely measurable qualifications – school records, his one-page resume, or whether he has movie star looks – he never quite measured up. “But what they couldn’t measure,” said Steve Harvey, “was how big my dream was…”
What a difference the power of dreams can make. As the star of The Steve Harvey Show, Steve won four NAACP Image Awards as “Outstanding Actor in a Comedy Series.” He also won an NAACP Image Award for his performance as host of the variety series It’s Showtime at The Apollo. In March 2001, Harvey received the ultimate honor: NAACP Image Award’s “Entertainer of the Year,” and now has a NY Times best-selling book on the market.
Friday, October 9, 2009
Wilmer Leon Takes on the Healthcare Debate in a Different Way
By
Dr. Wilmer J. Leon III, Howard University, Your Black World
According to 2008 US Census Bureau data, approximately 47 million, or 15.8 percent of the US population, were without health insurance during 2006 - a 4.9 percent increase. In 2005, census figures showed that 44.8 million people, or about 15.3 percent of the population, lacked health insurance coverage. According to a report released by the Institute on Medicine, the average cost of family health care coverage more than doubled from 1999 to 2008, from $1,543 to $3,354.
Based upon these realities, presidential candidate Obama made health care reform a central theme of his campaign. He promised to achieve universal health care in his first term and to cut the average family's health care health care costs by $2,500. In the on-going health care reform debate, it is very important to remember that as a result of this and other campaign promises, President Obama won the 2008 presidential election with 53 percent of the popular vote to Senator McCain's 46 percent and 68 percent of the Electoral College vote to McCain's 36 percent.
According to a New York Times/CBS News poll taken in June, 85 percent of respondents said the health care system needed to be fundamentally changed or completely rebuilt. According to a June poll conducted by the Employee Benefit Research Institute, 83 percent of respondents favored and only 14 percent opposed "creating a new public health insurance plan that anyone can purchase." These numbers indicate that health care reform is very important to the American people.
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How to Protect Your Children from Abuse
Dr. Towanna Freeman, a leading youth advocate, was asked about the case of the 12-year old pregnant girl who was kidnapped by her father. When asked how people can protect their children, Dr. Freeman had this to say:
Sexual abuse can absolutely devastate a person’s life. No matter how small the act, it can take a lifetime to reverse the damages. Here are five easy steps you can take to protect your family and loved ones from sexual abuse.
1. Have open discussion about what is healthy sexual behavior and what is abusive sexual behavior.
2. Let children know they can come to you if they are not comfortable being around a particular adult or older child.
3. Talk openly and often about inappropriate sexual behavior that you see on television or hear about in the media.
4. Inform other adults or older children who spend time around or supervise the children that if the child does not want a hug or kiss, then a simple handshake is perfectly acceptable.
5. Finally, educate yourself to recognize warning signs that a child may have been sexually abused.
Life Coach, Management Consultant, Inspirational Speaker and Author. Principal consultant of Towanna Freeman & Associates and founder of the Young Women’s Empowerment Network, Towanna Freeman is a proven leader in developing and implementing successful leadership, teambuilding and strategic change initiatives in major corporations. Her particular expertise is in shaping corporate strategy and developing quantitative and qualitative measures of bottom-line benefits. To reach Towanna for speaking or media appearances, please call (901) 413-0203.
Pregnant 12 - Year Old Found with Her Father
A pregnant 12 year old and her sister were allegedly abducted by their adopted white father.
Dr Elaina George: Is the Swine Flu Vaccine Safe?
by Dr. Elaina George, Your Black World
I have had several patients ask me whether or not they should get the swine flu (H1N1) vaccine. My response has been the same. I will not be getting the vaccine because I don’t think it is safe.
I am an MD who was trained to practice medicine the old fashioned way. My education was based on understanding and treating disease. As a surgeon, I was taught that in some cases surgical correction is the most efficient and expedient way to fix a problem or cure a disease. In short, I have a healthy respect for the standard medical care that is practiced in this country.
However, over the past 10 years since I have been in practice, I have seen a disturbing trend that has become increasingly more common. Although we have the most advanced medical system in the world, the best trained physicians, and access to new and ever evolving medications, we as a nation and particularly the minority population are getting sicker at a younger age, and our quality of life is suffering. There are more people suffering from depression, anxiety, and learning disabilities than at any time in our history. Unfortunately, we have learned to manage diseases by taking a pill everyday instead of doing what it takes to prevent the illness in the first place. It is past time to look to good nutrition and prevention as a means of preventing and curing chronic diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, obesity and some cancers which have risen to epidemic levels.
When I made the personal decision to ask questions about the Swine flu vaccine, the answers that I discovered contradicted the mantra that has been championed by the media, government officials, and the vaccine manufacturers. What we are being told simply does not make any sense. The most important question that I have learned to ask (from the politics of healthcare to every other facet of our society that affects us as individuals) is - who stands to gain?
I will not be getting the swine flu vaccine because:
- The vaccine makers have been given immunity from being sued for any bad outcome
After the deaths and injuries associated with the Swine flu vaccination campaign in 1976, the vaccine manufacturers lost billions of dollars in civil suits. That cannot happen this time around. Congress has since passed two bills that shield vaccine makers from civil suits. The first in 1986 protects vaccine makers from civil suits filed by people who have been injured by a vaccine due to ‘unavoidable side effects’. In 2006 another iteration of the shield law (The Epidemic Preparedness Act) was passed as part of the Patriot Act and extends the shield to include protection if the drug maker has ‘no willful knowledge’ that a vaccine may cause injury. In short, a maker of the Swine flu vaccine simply has to say they didn’t know the vaccine was going to cause harm then they cannot be sued. This won’t be hard to do since they have not fully tested the vaccine.
- There are many ingredients in vaccines called adjuvants that are put in to stimulate the immune response
Restaurant Puts N-word next to Obama's Name on a Sign
A restaurant owner puts a sign outside his door that says "Obama's Healthcare plan, N*gger Rig it."
Thursday, October 8, 2009
Dr Boyce on Jack Johnson, Barack Obama, Michael Vick
What do Jack Johnson, Joe Louis, Barack Obama and Michael Vick all have in common?
Dr. Boyce and Rev. Al Sharpton Discuss Michael Vick, Couples and Money
Dr. Boyce Watkins speaks with Rev. Al Sharpton about Michael Vick's deal with Nike and why couples get divorced over money.
Saturday Night Live Turns on Barack Obama
President Barack Obama was a favorite of the liberals on Saturday night live before the election, but not anymore.
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Beyonce Breaks her silence over Kanye
Beyonce Knowles is finally breaking her silence aboutKanye West storming the stage at the VMAs to declare that she should have won Best Female Video instead ofTaylor Swift.
"Well, I knew his intentions, and I knew he was standing up for art; and he told me before, when they said the nominees, he's like, 'You have this award,'" Beyonce, 28, told O: The Oprah magazine editor at large Gayle King (viaMTV News) at the Billboard Awards over the weekend, when she was named Woman of the Year.
See what the stars wore to the MTV VMAs
"When they didn't call my name, he was, like, completely shocked," Knowles says. "And when he walked on the stage, I was like, 'No, no, no!' and then he spoke, and I was like, 'Oh, no, no, no!'"
Knowles -- who handed the mic over to Swift after winning Video of the Year later that night -- continues, "But in the end, it ended up being a great night, and Taylor Swift did get her moment -- and I didn't have to make an acceptance speech."
Tags: black celebrity gossip, black gossip, kanye west, beyonce
Black News: Nia Long Speaks about "Good Hair"
Coming out this week is 'Good Hair,' a wonderfully insightful and entertaining, yet remarkably serious, documentary about African American hair culture.
Directed by funnyman Chris Rock, the film explores hair salons and styling battles, scientific laboratories and Indian temples to explore the way black hairstyles impact the activities, pocketbooks, sexual relationships and self-esteem of black people.
Known for her roles in 'Soul Food,' 'The Best Man' and 'Love Jones,'Nia Long was among the celebrities who candidly offered her stories and observations to Rock.
In speaking with Black Voices, Long talks about her involvement, being open about the taboo subject and her short sting on 'The Cleveland Show.'
How did you end up being in the documentary?
Tags: nia long, chris rock, black news
Monday, October 5, 2009
Sunday, October 4, 2009
Dr. Wilmer Leon: A Father’s Reflection on the Derrion Albert Murder
By
Dr. Wilmer J. Leon III, Howard University
On this past Saturday, October 3, 2009 a 16 year old African American honor student, Derrion Albert was laid to rest in Chicago. This young man was beaten to death in the street while walking from school to the bus stop. Silvanus Shannon, 19, Eugene Riley, 18, Eric Carson, 16, and Eugene Bailey, 18, have all been charged with first-degree murder in Derrion’s death.
As I watched the video of this young man being beaten to death with a railroad tie I asked myself what could compel four young African American men to engage in such a wanton and willful murderous act? How could these young men have such disregard for another human being’s life that they would beat him to his death, in the street, in broad day light? What is the basis of their rage, their anger?
I then asked myself, where are their fathers? I made an assumption and came to the conclusion that their fathers must be absent, not active or engaged in their lives. This antisocial rage, this anger is probably in part a response to their being raised without the benefit of knowing the love of their fathers. If these young men were asked to explain what drove them to this act; they most likely would not be able to articulate a clear response. They probably do not know. If they do know, they would be too ashamed to say.
As a man who was blessed to be raised by two loving parents; I clearly understand the power of love. At the age of 50, I am still blessed to be able to talk with my almost 90 year old father every day (I lost my mother last March); hear his voice, seek his counsel; feel his love. As far as I have been able to come based upon knowing my father’s love, I can’t begin to imagine how dysfunctional I would be without it.
Saturday, October 3, 2009
News: Real Housewives Star’s Fiance Dies in Strip Club Fight
Kandi Burruss, the newest cast member of the hit reality show, “The Real Housewives of Atlanta,” is coping with the tragic death of her fiancé, Ashley “A.J.” Jewell, who appeared regularly on the show.
Burruss' publicist, Lisa Nelson, confirmed to WSBTV.com reporter Brian Johnson that the incident has left the Atlanta "housewife" stunned and speechless. Burruss posted a message on her Twitter page Saturday expressing how the incident has left her devasated.
"I could never in a million years imagine this happening. Please pray for A.J.'s children ... that's who i'm the most concerned for. I'm about to give my swollen eyes some rest now. I just wanted to say thanks two everyone for their prayers," said Burruss.
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Friday, October 2, 2009
College Students Getting Hooked on Adderall
College students around the country are using the drug Adderall to get through their study day.
MJ BOOTS SELL FOR 14,000
A pair of bedazzled boots that Michael Jackson planned to wear during his scheduled concerts in London were auctioned off for $14,650 at a fundraiser for HIV/AIDS research chaired by his sister, Janet Jackson.
ROBIN IS A CANCER SURVIVOR
Good Morning America" co-host and breast cancer survivor Robin Roberts will be the guest announcer this Friday during a special Grand Ole Opry show promoting research about the disease.
Roberts, who was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2007, will introduce acts during the long-running live country music show, according to a press release from the Opry.
Thursday, October 1, 2009
DO YOU BELIEVE IN THE DEATH PENALTY?
In theory, the death penalty for capital crimes should work.
An accused killer takes the life of an innocent and is put to death to protect the rest of society.
The only problem is that theory has little to do with real life.
Prejudicial prosecution; coerced confessions; corrupted informants; botched lawyering; and, yes, even racism, have turned the death penalty, as it is now applied in the United States, into a very dirty, inaccurate business.
Let's cross our fingers and pray that with a little luck, a death knell for the death penalty will soon be sounded, especially in light of the sad case of Romell Broom, who would have been executed in Ohio's death chamber on Sept. 15 but for his weak veins.
BLACK TEENS KILLING EACHOTHER
The video of 16-year-old Derrion Albert being beaten to death is hard enough to watch. The audio makes it almost unbearable.
When Albert is struck in the head with a board we hear the crackling of the wood colliding with his skull. As he falls to the ground we hear the slapping sound as another boy punches the honor student in the side of the head.
There are more noises as various kids rush in and kick him while he's on the ground."Damn, put the n****a to sleep," somebody yells. "Damn, they knocked him out," someone else screams out.
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Dr Boyce Watkins and Al Sharpton Discuss Ebony Magazine and Black Politics
Dr Boyce Watkins and Rev. Al Sharpton wonder if Ebony Magazine can survive with new ownership.
Warren Ballentine and Dr. Boyce Watkins on Obama's Facebook Threat 092809
Dr Boyce watkins and Warren Ballentine discuss the Facebook death threats to President Barack Obama
Dr. Elaina George Speaks on Swine Flu Vaccine
Dr. Elaina George, a prominent physician in Atlanta, asks whether or not it makes sense for every American to take the Swine Flu Vaccine.
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Dr. Wilmer Leon: Michael is not “The Man of Steele”
Dr. Wilmer J. Leon III, Your Black World
Not to be outdone, in response to America electing its first African-American President, on January 30, 2009, the Republican National Committee (RNC) elected Michael Steele, the former lieutenant governor of Maryland, as its chairman. It was a long and painful process, but on the sixth and final ballot, for the first time in its history, the Republican Party elected an African-American to manage its affairs.
During his acceptance speech, Chairman Steele said, "To Americans who believe in the future of this country. To those who stand in difference with us, it's time for something completely different, and we're gonna bring it to them. We're gonna bring this party to every corner, every boardroom, every neighborhood, every community and we're gonna say to friend and foe alike: We want you to be a part of this, we want you to work with us, and for those of you who wish to obstruct, get ready to get knocked over."
These were very powerful and encouraging words, especially coming from an intelligent African-American man who was speaking to a political party dominated by white men who are not used to African-Americans speaking to them so forcefully and directly. To bring forth "something completely different"; to take the party to "friend and foe alike," to "knock over" decades of neoconservative ideology and racism would take a Superman. Unfortunately, these encouraging and powerful words ring hollow when compared to the reality of Chairman Steele's actions. Michael is no Superman. He's not "The Man of Steele."
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