Tyrone's Cotton Gin

FlashBack Friday: Ghost Town DJs- My Boo

2009-03-13T10:16:00.000-07:00

So its cold and raining outside and Im thinking out how it was 85 degrees earlier this week and now I'm ready for summer. So today's flashback friday is dedicated to summer time cook outs, pool parties, and all the boos out in the world. ;-)

Monday's Moment: W.E.B. Dubois

2009-02-23T19:12:00.000-08:00

William Edward Burghardt Du Bois was an American civil rights activist, leader, Pan-Africanist, sociologist, educator, historian, writer, editor, poet, and scholar. He became a naturalized citizen of Ghana in 1963 at the age of 95.

On Feb. 23, 1868, W. E. B. Du Bois was born in Great Barrington, Mass., where he grew up. During his youth he did some newspaper reporting. In 1884 he graduated as valedictorian from high school. He got his bachelor of arts from Fisk University in Nashville, Tenn., in 1888, having spent summers teaching in African American schools in Nashville's rural areas. In 1888 he entered Harvard University as a junior, took a bachelor of arts cum laude in 1890, and was one of six commencement speakers. From 1892 to 1894 he pursued graduate studies in history and economics at the University of Berlin on a Slater Fund fellowship. He served for 2 years as professor of Greek and Latin at Wilberforce University in Ohio.

In 1891 Du Bois got his master of arts and in 1895 his doctorate in history from Harvard. His dissertation, The Suppression of the African Slave Trade to the United States of America, 1638-1870, was published as No. 1 in the Harvard Historical Series. This important work has yet to be surpassed. In 1896 he married Nina Gomer, and they had two children.
In 1896-1897 Du Bois became assistant instructor in sociology at the University of Pennsylvania. There he conducted the pioneering sociological study of an urban community, published as The Philadelphia Negro: A Social Study (1899). These first two works assured Du Bois's place among America's leading scholars.

Du Bois's life and work were an inseparable mixture of scholarship, protest activity, and polemics. All of his efforts were geared toward gaining equal treatment for black people in a world dominated by whites and toward marshaling and presenting evidence to refute the myths of racial inferiority.

As Racial Activist

In 1905 Du Bois was a founder and general secretary of the Niagara movement, an African American protest group of scholars and professionals. Du Bois founded and edited the Moon (1906) and the Horizon (1907-1910) as organs for the Niagara movement. In 1909 Du Bois was among the founders of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) and from 1910 to 1934 served it as director of publicity and research, a member of the board of directors, and editor of the Crisis, its monthly magazine.

In the Crisis, Du Bois directed a constant stream of agitation--often bitter and sarcastic--at white Americans while serving as a source of information and pride to African Americans. The magazine always published young African American writers. Racial protest during the decade following World War I focused on securing anti-lynching legislation. During this period the NAACP was the leading protest organization and Du Bois its leading figure.

In 1934 Du Bois resigned from the NAACP board and from the Crisis because of his new advocacy of an African American nationalist strategy: African American controlled institutions, schools, and economic cooperatives. This approach opposed the NAACP's commitment to integration. However, he returned to the NAACP as director of special research from 1944 to 1948. During this period he was active in placing the grievances of African Americans before the United Nations, serving as a consultant to the UN founding convention (1945) and writing the famous "An Appeal to the World" (1947).

Du Bois was a member of the Socialist party from 1910 to 1912 and always considered himself a Socialist. In 1948 he was cochairman of the Council on African Affairs; in 1949 he attended the New York, Paris, and Moscow peace congresses; in 1950 he served as chairman of the Peace Information Center and ran for the U.S. Senate on the American Labor party ticket in New York. In 1950-1951 Du Bois was tried and acquitted as an agent of a foreign power in one of the most ludicrous actions ever taken by the American government. Du Bois traveled widely throughout Russia and China in 1958-1959 and in 1961 joined the Communist party of the United States. He also took up residence in Ghana, Africa, in 1961.

Pan-Africanism

Du Bois was also active in behalf of pan-Africanism and concerned with the conditions of people of African descent wherever they lived. In 1900 he attended the First Pan-African Conference held in London, was elected a vice president, and wrote the "Address to the Nations of the World." The Niagara movement included a "pan-African department." In 1911 Du Bois attended the First Universal Races Congress in London along with black intellectuals from Africa and the West Indies.

Du Bois organized a series of pan-African congresses around the world, in 1919, 1921, 1923, and 1927. The delegations comprised intellectuals from Africa, the West Indies, and the United States. Though resolutions condemning colonialism and calling for alleviation of the oppression of Africans were passed, little concrete action was taken. The Fifth Congress (1945, Manchester, England) elected Du Bois as chairman, but the power was clearly in the hands of younger activists, such as George Padmore and Kwame Nkrumah, who later became significant in the independence movements of their respective countries. Du Bois's final pan-African gesture was to take up citizenship in Ghana in 1961 at the request of President Kwame Nkrumah and to begin work as director of the Encyclopedia Africana.

As Scholar

Du Bois's most lasting contribution is his writing. As poet, playwright, novelist, essayist, sociologist, historian, and journalist, he wrote 21 books, edited 15 more, and published over 100 essays and articles. Only a few of his most significant works will be mentioned here.

From 1897 to 1910 Du Bois served as professor of economics and history at Atlanta University, where he organized conferences titled the Atlanta University Studies of the Negro Problem and edited or co-edited 16 of the annual publications, on such topics as The Negro in Business (1899), The Negro Artisan (1902), The Negro Church (1903), Economic Cooperation among Negro Americans (1907), and The Negro American Family (1908). Other significant publications were The Souls of Black Folk: Essays and Sketches (1903), one of the outstanding collections of essays in American letters, and John Brown (1909), a sympathetic portrayal published in the American Crisis Biographies series.

Du Bois also wrote two novels, The Quest of the Silver Fleece (1911) and Dark Princess: A Romance (1928); a book of essays and poetry, Darkwater: Voices from within the Veil (1920); and two histories of black people, The Negro (1915) and The Gift of Black Folk: Negroes in the Making of America (1924).

From 1934 to 1944 Du Bois was chairman of the department of sociology at Atlanta University. In 1940 he founded Phylon, a social science quarterly. Black Reconstruction in America, 1860-1880 (1935), perhaps his most significant historical work, details the role of African Americans in American society, specifically during the Reconstruction period. The book was criticized for its use of Marxist concepts and for its attacks on the racist character of much of American historiography. However, it remains the best single source on its subject.

Black Folk, Then and Now (1939) is an elaboration of the history of black people in Africa and the New World. Color and Democracy: Colonies and Peace (1945) is a brief call for the granting of independence to Africans, and The World and Africa: An Inquiry into the Part Which Africa Has Played in World History (1947; enlarged ed. 1965) is a major work anticipating many later scholarly conclusions regarding the significance and complexity of African history and culture. A trilogy of novels, collectively entitled The Black Flame (1957, 1959, 1961), and a selection of his writings, An ABC of Color (1963), are also worthy.

Du Bois received many honorary degrees, was a fellow and life member of the American Association for the Advancement of Science, and a member of the National Institute of Arts and Letters. He was the outstanding African American intellectual of his period in America.
Du Bois died in Ghana on Aug. 27, 1963, on the eve of the civil rights march in Washington, D.C. He was given a state funeral, at which Kwame Nkrumah remarked that he was "a phenomenon."

Flashback Friday: Shai- If I Ever Fall in Love Again

2009-02-20T08:38:00.000-08:00

Let me apologize for not posting yesterday. I had a very long and offensive day and was frankly, too tired and lazy to post anything last night. I'll double up next week though.

So I'm dedicating this week's Flashback Friday to everybody who remembers their first crush. Remember passing the note around: Do you like me? _ Yes _ No _Maybe. What da hell was up with "Maybe" anyway? I don't want no Maybe. I don't believe in indecisiveness. Give me a straight up answer so I can stop wasting my time, eraseable ink and my momma's money that she spent to buy the paper I wrote this note on.

Anyway.... Here's the video below. If you want to watch the real video, click here!

Shoutout to all my HU Alums!

WTF Wednesday: Do the Halle Berry!!!!!

2009-02-18T06:35:00.000-08:00

Yes that's right do the Halle Berry. As if we didn't have enough dumb shit to dance to, some clowns have created the Halle Berry. If this aint the most IG'NANT mess I've seen in a while. It reminds me a cross dressing Kappa Stroll with all these mirrors and posing. Dudes if I ever see you do this in the club, I'm gonna punch you in the throat!!

Before I go.... I must comment on this video. People... should you decide to post your life on the world wide web via YouTube or any other video-based website. Please clean up yo damn room!! Its so much going on with this video. Why don't you have any damn curtains?!?! Take yo momma's J.C. Penney sheets off the damn wall. Why are there clothes and shoes everywhere?? Please invest in some chester drawers or a trunk (Yes I said Chester drawers!).... THANKS! Next issue... make up your damn beds! I really hope y'all ain't sharing a room, but if so... that is still not an excuse for this dirty @$$ room! DO BETTER.

I'm done people.... This is my WTF Wednesday!

T-shirt Tuesdays: Puffy... the career reducer!!

2009-02-17T15:05:00.000-08:00

Today's t-shirt is dedicated to none other than Sean "Puffy Poppy Diddy Pop" Combs. So I was watching this video on YouTube about how Puffy was considered "poison" to every musical artist he managed. Puffy's "Midas Touch" has turned hopeful and talented artists into "rusted" visions of the past.

Allow me to go through the Bad Boy Roster of the Grim Reaper himself:

Mase- Diddy's side kick rapper turned preacher turned gangsta.

Craig Mack- Once known for "kicking new flavor in ya ear", Mack's was apparently found working at a gas station a few years ago.

Notorious B.I.G.- Although we all know, love, and appreciate the music of Biggie. Puffy has made more money off him dead than when he was alive.
Total- The ladies known as Kima, Keisha, and Pam blessed us with "Kissing you" and "Can't you see" and then fell into the black hole of Bad Boy Artists.

112- Bad Boyz staple R&B Group, whose baby making Albums "Room 112" and "Part III"

Carl Thomas- Carl's first album may possibly be the best R & B and sex soundtrack ever and its a shame Puffy ruined such great talent.

Boyz in the Hood- Victims of Puffy's Bad Boy South... At least Jeezy was smart enough to see the signs and escape.

Cassie- Diddy's talent deprived Jumpoff. He gassed her up and got her thinking she can sing.

Cheri Dennis- I have no idea why this chick is still on Bad Boy. She's been on the label for 10 years and has only released 1 album that has barely sold anything. Cheri... take my advice and run.

DA BAND- Don't we miss Dylan, Babs, and the rest of them. And for the record, I'd be damn if I walk across the city to get some damn cheesecake and Cambodian breast milk. (shout out to Dave Chappelle)

Day 26- Another one of Diddy's crappy bands that wont last. I wish he would stop making bands.

Elephant Man- How in hell this came about, I have no idea. Anytime you go to Diddy to help your career... you are a hopeless!

Gorilla Zoe- Jezzy's replacement for Boyz in the Hood... Lets hope he finds a way to make some money.

Danity Kane-Diddy's female vocalist group who managed to make some fame and sell some records. Too bad he's making them coon for him on these remix Band shows and they aren't getting any money.

Yung Joc- As much as I love my ATL music... Joc does nothing for me... so his contribution to music is not appreciated.

Mario Winans- The heathen child of the Winans family who decided to pursue secular music instead of gospel like the rest of his family.

Faith- The First Lady of Hip Hop has fallen off the earth musically, but has recently released a new book. Maybe we can get an album from you soon.

Black Rob- His career disappeared like WHOA!

The L.O.X.- Whatever Puffy did to the LOX to make them so bitter, I have no idea. Just dont ask these men to wear anymore shiny suits.

G-Dep- This "Child of the Ghetto" came onto the scene with his "Special Delivery" and was FedEx'd out the planet.

Loon- Mase's long lost brother once hoped to help revive Bad Boy. Fell into the black hole and disappeared.

New Edition- In a failed attempt to revive their career.... they called on Puffy to play Captain Save 'Em. Unfortunately for them, New Edition just isn't the same w/o Bobby Brown naked and grinding on the stage.

So with that said..... Diddy... stop RAPING your artists. That is Bitchassness.. which by the way is not a real damn word.

Stay tuned for next week's T-shirt victim.

Monday's Moment: Garrett Augustus Morgan

2009-02-16T22:54:00.000-08:00

Inventor, born in Paris, Kentucky, USA. Born into poverty and with only a fifth-grade education, he moved to Cleveland, OH and worked as a sewing-machine mechanic. By 1907 he had a patent for an improved sewing machine and began his own sewing machine business. In 1909 he discovered a substance that straightened hair (temporarily) and by selling it to African-Americans through his own G A Morgan Hair Refining Co, he achieved the financial security to allow him to pursue his other interests. He patented a ‘breathing device’ (1914), a hood that allowed the wearer to breathe safely in the presence of smoke, gases, and other pollutants. He worked hard to market this device, especially to fire departments, and often himself demonstrated its reliability in fires. In the South, where there was resistance to buying such a device made by an African-American, he demonstrated as an Indian, Big Chief Mason, and in a famous tunnel accident in Cleveland (1916), where he rescued several men, he was denied a medal from the Carnegie Hero Fund. In World War 1 his hood was adopted and then adapted to serve as a gas mask. He patented his automatic traffic signal (1923) and sold it to the General Electric Co. In the 1920s he collaborated in starting a newspaper for African-Americans, the Cleveland Call (later the Call and Post). He was also active in the Cleveland Association of Colored Men and the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People.

- Source: www.Biography.com

Ps. Garrett Morgan was also a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.

Renovations

2009-02-16T21:49:00.001-08:00

Okay people... I know I've been "slippin on my pimpin" lately with my blogging. I am issuing my new line up in the blogging series.

Monday's Moments- Weekend recap followed by significant historical events.

T-Shirt Tuesdays- Those of you who know me, know I buy random t-shirts from my travels as souvenirs and I often come up with my own T-shirts that capture my random and mildly offensive thoughts. T-shirt Tuesdays will start as my launchpad for capturing the stupidity of my victims.

WTF Wednesdays- I am putting people on blast for the dumb 'ish people say (and do) without thinking it out all the way through.

Trash Talkin' Thursdays- I've decided Thursday's will be my day to talk trash about politics. Be advised... My opinions are harsh and real.

Flashback Fridays- I'm an 80's baby and big fan of the 90s. I'm taking it back to pay homage to our fallen soldiers who fell victim to Y2K.

There's a Stranger in my House!!!

2009-01-14T22:15:00.001-08:00

Happy New Year Everyone!!!

I'm back and got hella stuff to talk about. But first things first... There's a stranger in my house! No this isn't an ode to Tamia!! But I found out that there is a homeless dude living in the fitness center of my apartment complex. This very complicated case was solved today, however the clues span back about a month.

So one night in December, during one of the nights that I wasn't able to steal wireless internet, I went to the business center of my apartment. At some point that night, I heard loud rumbling and scurrying above me. now I know it couldn't be no animal that damn big on the roof and I knew no rats could be that loud ANYWHERE. But I gave up on the sound, gathered my things, and decided to leave for the night before the grimlins came to get me. **Clue # 1**

About 2 weeks ago... the same scenario occurred again. I was in the business center and heard what sounded like someone walking or crawling above me. At this point I decided that it was not in my best interest to use the business center late at night. **Clue #2**

A few days ago, I was very restless and decided to go to the fitness center and work out this energy and help me sleep. As I attempted to open the door, I realized it was locked (which it never is). I then look through the glass and found a man laying on the floor watching tv! WTF! Confused, bewildered, and shocked... I just walked away and quickly changed my mind and went back to my apartment. ** Clue #3**

Yesterday, against my better judgement, I decided to go to the business center to do some work (one of these days I'm gonna get real internet). While I was there, I heard a loud noise come from the bathroom area and there after saw a man walk from that direction and headed towards the fitness center. It was the SAME damn dude from the other day. He goes in there and locks the door like he did the other day. I looked back towards the restroom where he came from and saw that the ceiling tile from the attic was out of place. ** Clue # 4** DING DING DING!! This grown ass man climbed out of the attic where he was hiding and walked into the fitness center.

At this point.. I was confused as hell and didn't know what to say.. This man is living in the apartment complex for freeee-99 and ain't paying naaaaaa'ne parts of rent. At this point I have become the hater. Yea I said it.... dammit, if i gotta damn near break my back and hustle to pay rent so do u. You will not hide and make the fitness center your home!!!

So today I went to the leasing office and to her that I think somebody is living in the fitness center. Apparently I wasn't the only person who noticed because other folks have been complaining about dude. The background story is that he used to live here and got evicted a few months ago and is now hiding out. They have called the police on dude like 3 times and haven't been able to catch him. The woman told me to call 911 the next time I saw him. WOW! I know times are hard and people are doing crazy things to get past these hard times...but damn... this take the cake.

Maybe I should just terminate my lease and go live in the laundry room. I can hide all my clothes in the dryers. They have sofas in there, so I'll be comfy too! What do ya think?

102 years of Manly Deeds, Scholarship, and Love for All mankind!!!

2008-12-04T06:54:00.000-08:00

Happy Founders' Day Bruhs!!!!

On this great day 7 men set forth to lay a foundation that shall forever remain. This is my gift to you...

HOUSE OF ALPHA

By Brother Sidney P. Brown

GOODWILL is the monarch of this house
Where men, unacquainted, enter, shake hands,
exchange greetings, and depart friends.
Cordiality exists among all who abide within.

I am the eminent expression of friendship.
Character and temperament change under my dominant power.
Lives once touched by me become tuned,
and are thereafter, amiable, kindly, fraternal.

I inspire the musician to play noble sentiments,
and assist the chemist to convert ungenerous personalities
into individuals of great worth.
I destroy all ignoble impulses.
I constantly invoke principles which make for common brotherhood,
and the echo resounds in all communities,
and princely men are thereby recognized.

Education, health, music, encouragement, sympathy, laughter:
All these are species of interest given on self-invested capital.
Tired moments find me a delightful treat,
Hours of sorrow a shrine of understanding,
At all times I am faithful to the creed of companionship.

To a few I am the Castle of Dreams,
Ambitious, successful, hopeful dreams.
To many, I am the Poetic Palace
where human feeling is rhymed to celestial motives.
To the great majority,
I am the Treasury of Good Fellowship.

In fact, I am the College of Friendship;
The University of Brotherly Love;
The School for the Better Making of Men.
I AM ALPHA PHI ALPHA!

HOUSE OF ALPHA
By Brother Sidney P. Brown

Inauguration Ball 2009

2008-11-13T16:55:00.000-08:00

Wassup people... I know its been way too long. Life happens and when it does, a whole lot of ish take the back seat. I promise to catch you all up on all my latest ignorance, rants, and raves very soon. In the meanwhile, enjoy the following passage below that someone forwarded to me....

Inauguration Ball 2009

Guests began arriving early. There are no place cards and no name tags. Everyone knows everyone else here. Now, there's a grand foursome - Malcolm X and Betty Shabazz sharing laughs with Martin and Coretta Scott King. Looks like Hosea Williams refused the limo again, keeping it real. And my goodness; is that Rosa Parks out there on the dance floor with A. Phillip Randolph? Seated at a nearby table, Frederick Douglas has a captive audience in W.E.B. DuBois and Fannie Lou Hamer, and Medgar Evers has just joined them.

Marian Anderson was asked to sing tonight, but she only agreed to do it if accompanied by Marvin Gaye, John Lennon and Jimi Hendrix. Look, there's Harriet Tubman. No one knows how she arrived, but there she is. And my guess is that, when the time comes, no one will see her leave. There's Jackie Robinson swiftly making his way through the hall as the crowd parts like the Red Sea to the unmistakable sound of applause. "Run, Jackie, run!? Along the way he is embraced by Jessie Owens.

Three beautiful young women arrive with their escorts - Schwerner, Goodman and Chaney. Ms. Viola Liuzzo flew in from Michigan , exclaiming, "I could not miss this." Richard Pryor promised to be on his best behavior. "But I can't make any guarantees for Redd Foxx and Moms Mabley," he chuckled. Joe Louis just faked a quick jab to the chin of Jack Johnson, who smiled broadly while slipping it We saw Billy Eckstine and Nat King Cole greet Luther Vandross. James Brown and Josh Gibson stopped at Walter Payton's table to say hello.

I spotted Congressman Adam Clayton Powell of Harlem having a lively political discussion with Eldredge Cleaver. Pearl Harbor WWII hero Dorey Miller shared a few thoughts with Crispus Attucks, a hero of the Revolutionary War. And there is Madam C.J. Walker talking with Marcus Garvey about exporting goods to Africa.

General Benjamin O. Davis flew into Washington safely with an escort from the 99th Fighter Squadron - better known as The Tuskegee Airman. At the table on the left are three formidable women - Shirley Chisholm, Sojourner Truth, and Barbara Jordan - gathered for a little girl-talk... about world politics. As usual, all the science nerds seem to have gathered off in a corner, talking shop.

There's Granville T. Woods and Lewis Latimer needling each other about whose inventions are better. Someone jokingly asked Benjamin Banneker if he had needed directions to Washington. And George Washington Carver was overheard asking, "What, no peanuts?"

Dueling bands? Anytime Duke Ellington and Count Basie get together, you know the place will be jumping. Tonight is special, of course, so we have Miles, Dizzy, and Satchmo sitting in on trumpet, with Coltrane, Cannonball, and Bird on sax. Everyone's attention is directed to the dance floor where Bill "Bojangles" Robinson is tap dancing. Right beside him is Sammy Davis Jr., doing his Bojangles routine. And behind his back, Gregory Hines is imitating them both. Applause and laughter abound! The Hollywood contingent has just arrived from the Coast. Led by filmmaker Oscar Micheau, Paul Robeson, Cana a Lee, and Hattie McDaniel, they find their way to their tables. Dorothy Dandridge, looking exquisite in gold lamé, is seen
signaling to her husband, Harold Nicholas, who is standing on the floor
with brother Fayard watching Gregory Hines dance. "Hold me back," quips Harold, "before I show that youngster how it's done." Much laughter!

Then a sudden hush comes over the room. The guests of honor have arrived. The President and Mrs. Obama looked out across the enormous ballroom at all the historic faces. Very many smiles, precious few dry eyes. Someone shouted out, "You did it! You did it!"
And President Obama replied, "No sir, you did it; you all - each and every one of you - did it.
Your guidance and encouragement; your hard work and perseverance. ..."
Obama paused, perhaps holding back a tear. "I look at your faces - your beautiful faces - and I
am reminded that The White House was built by faces that looked just like yours.

On October 3, 1792, the cornerstone of the White House was laid, and the foundations and main residence of The White House were built mostly by both enslaved and free African Americans and paid Europeans. In fact, most of the other construction work was performed by immigrants, many of whom had not yet become citizens. Much of the brick and plaster work was performed by Irish and Italian immigrants. The sandstone walls were built by Scottish immigrants. So, I guess what I'm trying to say is that The White House is, ultimately, The People's House, with each President serving as its steward.

Since 1792 the People have trimmed its hedges, mowed its lawn, stood guard at the gate, cooked meals in the kitchen, and scrubbed its toilet bowls. But 216 years later, The People are taking it back!

"Today, Michelle and I usher in a new era. But while we and our family look toward the future with so much hope, we know that we must also acknowledge fully this milestone in our journey. We want to thank each and every one of you for all you have done to make this day possible. I stand here before you, humbled and in awe of your accomplishments and sacrifice, and I will dedicate my Presidency, in your honor, to the principles of peace, liberty and freedom.

When being Greek goes WRONG!!!

2008-10-09T09:42:00.000-07:00

Okay, I am all for embracing and celebrating the posibility of Obama being president and celebrating this great occasion, however. there is a right and wrong way to do so. Its okay to wear t-shirts, buttons, and another other Obama 'nailia.... but this is how NOT to embrase Obama. Below is a video from a junior step team "spitting information" about Obama's healthcare and economic policies. I'm all for forming bonds of brotherhood and doing something uplifting with the use. But somehow I think i'd feel a lot better about them learning who Fredrick Douglass or Stokely Carmichael or some real history other than this. And its obvious that whoever taught these kids to do this was greek and im 90% sure what organization he was a member of. After the superintendent found out about this, the teacher was suspended. Feel free to comment

Silly McCain.... Tricks are for Kids!

2008-09-25T07:56:00.000-07:00

So oh Johnny boy has been begging and crying and pleading for a real town hall meeting so he and Obama can debate the issues.... and what does he do this week, jump out the window and punk out.

In case you've been living under a rock or simply have cotton permanently glued inside your ears, 24 hours ago, McCain has announced that he is suspending his campaign so he can concentrate his efforts to the economy crisis. And as part of this he wants to cancel the debate on Friday (as well as the VP debate). On the surface this may seem like a Captain Save Em move, but Johnny Boy..... people aren't that stupid. Barack is not taking you bate. This trick is going to fail miserably.

When my TV comes on at 9pm tommorrow... I expect to see your old wrinkly behind and your Cabbage Patch Doll AKA Sarah Palin (since he wont let her talk). Now we know that Mississippi is not the best place for such a racially polarized election season. Because just as there are lots of backwater Mississippians who would love to make "strange fruit" out of Barack Obama, there are just as many angry Black folks who have a few words for you Johnny Boy.

Stop avoiding the issues. Yea the economy sucks. You trying to be Captain Save 'em and save the economy is not gonna happen overnight. Whatever plan you try to come up with.... and uninsurable $700 Billion price tag is NOT da business and the American people are NOT interested in helping out the "Good Old Boys" and not receiving anything in return. Not to mention your own campaign manager is getting money from Fannie Mac and im sure "donated" some to your campaign.

Thats all for today people. Stay tuned for the "Dummy of the Week". In the mean time, check out last night's interview of Sarah Palin with Katie Couric.

PART I

PART II

Dummy of the Week: R. Kelly

2008-09-18T15:22:00.001-07:00

Okay... So you all KNOW I gotta talk about our cousin Robert "I wanna piss on you" Kelly. So the "Pied Piper" after all these years finally decided that he needed to set the record straight after being aquitted on ALL charges (Thats some bull... but moving on). Now Robert (yes I called you by your government name that your 2nd grade teacher called you)... when someone asks you "Do you like teenage girls?" your response should NEVER EVER EVER be... "When you say teenage... how old are you talking?" Are you really that stupid NIGGA!?!? (Yes i used that word, because it is too fitting seeing the circumstances)

So in honor of R. Kelly, who is too confused about what a teenage girl is, I have layed out 10 signs of the sure fact that you are messing with an underage girl.

She just got her permit yesterday
She invites you to prom
She show's you her SAT score
She cant talk to you late tonight because she has ITBS testing all week
Her lunchbox has Power Puff Girls on It.
She always has an extra change of clothes at school "Just in case"
She asks you for $5 because today is "Pizza Hut Wednesday"
Her favorite show is on Nickelodeon.
She still believes in Santa Clause
You have to ask her for an ID.

In the meanwhile, check out the video from the interview. Its not the whole thing....but you still get an idea of his level of thought.

White Privilege, White Entitlement and the 2008 Election

2008-09-18T15:22:00.000-07:00

I came across this today and thought i'd pass it along. Ironically, It was written by a white man by the name of Tim Wise. After reading his article (see below), check out the video below from one of his seminars. Feel Free to comment.

http://www.buzzflash.com/articles/contributors/1755

Its been a long time... I shouldn't have left you... without a dope post to read to

2008-09-18T08:32:00.000-07:00

Okay okay okay.... I know. Where on earth have you been?.... I've been busy like a monster and my internet access is not as dependable as I would like to. Thus my post have been less frequent as you would like. But fret no more my loyal followers. I'm baaaaaaaaaaaaack! So get ready for several rants over the next few days.

Make 'em say UGGGHH..... NOW STOP!!

2008-08-23T15:28:00.000-07:00

Okay everyone....I've been on a roll this week with my blogs (recommend me to your friends).... So those of you who know me, know that I recently decided to cut my cable off and begin "Cable Detoxification". TV was beginning to just be waaaay too much. Too many crappy shows, too many negative images, and too much money. So randomly one afternoon, I unhooked my cable cord, grabbed a box, and told Time Warner to have a good day! And recently I was just given a good reason to do so.

Well it appears that Americas favorite dancing No Limit Soldier has decided to launch a new TV network: BBTV(Better Black TeleVision). Such a creative name! *insert sarcastic remark here* So I ask myself... "Self.... .who in da HELL approved such an asinine idea? and FURTHERMORE.... what da hell kinda shows are you going to have?" So I have decided to come up with a few ideas for show which would be appropriate for his new network:

Mama Mia's Southern Greased Cuisine- How many of you all remember No Limit's "1st Lady" Mia X. Well she's back with a new agenda. Instead of serving up hot raunchy lyrics, she's serving up Hot Steamy, Freak Hoe Gumbo (a secret family recipe). Just make sure you "bounce yo knees and touch yo elbows" when you eat it....Enhances its succulent flavor.
Danger: TRU Life.... I'm a broke prisoner!- Okay you know I had to pick on Mystical, who is currently in Jail for raping his hair braider and for tax evasion. Lets follow him around jail and let him perform a Jail Cell EXCLUSIVE (**Insert annoying DJ Clue sound off**) so he can help pay his debt.
Romeo Shakespeare's.. I WANNA BE MADE... into a real rapper!- So we all know how Master P has pretty much auctioned off his son to the world so he can make money for the label. Why don't we help out his deteriorating music career and help him be a real rapper... that way he won't have to pretend he's a thug. We can give him a few professional tips on how to be a "Supreme Lyricist". But while we are at it.... Let's invite several other potential candidates who would benefit from this gracious experience. Listed below are a few potential folks who should be invited to the casting call:
--- Bow Wow- Just because you drop the "lil" doesn't make you a real rapper!
--- Chance & Real- New York can't help her own career, let alone yours!
--- Dylan- Who are the 5 worst rappers alive... DYLAN, DYLAN, DYLAN, DYLAN, DYLAN....... cuz u spit wack $#!%
--- Ja' Rule- Your career is MURDAAAA!!!!
--- Vanilla Ice- As an Alpha, I thank you for your only important single and a reason to stroll, but your lyrical skills and shinny suits weren't da bizness!
--- Noreaga- You gets NO love for making an ENTIRE song about WHAT! have your agent call me IMMEDIATELY.
--- I am still taking nominations for others. email I_spit_hot_fire@gmail.com
Dancing with the Coons- Since our favorite Thug turned Conscience No N-word using rapper is looking for crossover appeal..... Let's allow him to invite 15 white celebrities and teach him how to do today's latest dances. I.e. Supaman, Soulja Boi, Crank that _____, Roy, and any other dumb ass dance thats out here these days. Who ever can coon the longest wins a LIFETIME supply of Murray's hair promanade, Red Kool-aid, and Watermelon seeds!!

I think this new lineup will be sure to set us back 350 years! Good job Percy!

GET YO KIDS!!

2008-08-22T19:38:00.000-07:00

AMERICA AMERICA AMERICA.... GET YO DAMN KIDS!!!!

And this is why I can't have kids... cuz I would have beat these kids to the white meat!!!!

Patriotic: To be or not to be.... that is the question

2008-08-22T15:11:00.000-07:00

So a friend of mine and I had a discussion the other day about patriotism. Its apparently been the new overused word since September 11th. Prior to Sept. 11th, patriotism was always seen as corny... and the greatest extent to most Americans patriotism was singing the national anthem (and trying to remember to take your hat off). Now a days its almost like we look for a reason to pick on someone for their lack of patriotism (ie. Obama and flag pin)

But what exactly is patriotism? Is it the constant extra dramatic use of flags everywhere or singing the Star Spangled Banner.. or is it simply pursuing the (White) American Dream. Pretty much... If you want to be "patriotic" in the U.S. you have to be a 65 year old, Christan, White man, with 2 kids, 2 cars, a 4 bedroom house surrounded by a white picket fence and 100K worth of debt. Is it possible at all to be Afrocentric or maintain any type of heritage/allegiance to another country and still being patriotic? Or.... here's a killer question? Can and should African Americans embrace patriotism given the past history of this country and the current condition and attitudes towards African Americans?

Personally....I'm torn on the issue. While I do appreciate the my freedom and rights, which took the blood, sweat, and tears of those civil rights leaders before me. I still find it hard to be an African American man and be "patriotic" at the same time. How can I "sing her praises won" when I know at any moment I can be pulled over for DWB (Driving While Black) and have the possibility of being shot, murdered, and stripped of these very liberties that I love and are frankly... rightfully mine (thanks to the blood, sweat, and tears of the 5 generations before me). How can I be patriotic when the foundation of this country is based on the same thing our soldiers are fighting against every single day.... TERRORISM!!! Yea.... that whole rob, steal, pillage, rape and kill of Native Americans.... not very patriotic. Or how about the fact that this country was founded by mostly criminals and deadbeats who deserted their own country, principles, and ideals, for a "pipe dream". Or better yet... how can I be patriotic when I know that millions of people are homeless in the street, thousands of children are in PISS POOR schools, don't have adequate health care, live in dangerous neighborhoods....... yet they do their patriotic duty by paying taxes, voting, and serving on jury duty. And what thanks does America do...... bend over and $%!& on the poor and minority families.

I dunno... the more I look at it.... it gets harder and harder. I guess I'll find some happy medium and try to be patriotic and VOTE this upcoming election. Hopefully a few things will change for the better. That's if McCain **cough** SATAN **cough** doesn't get elected.

On a brighter note.... I came across the smoothest version of the National Anthem ever sung. Posted below is the one and only, Marvin Gave at the All Star Game in 1983.

Enjoy

Stephanie Tubbs Jones dies at 58

2008-08-21T08:03:00.000-07:00

We've lost another great one...

http://blog.cleveland.com/metro/2008/08/family_hospital_confirm_congre_2.html

Elitism or Clouded Vision?

2008-08-18T15:45:00.000-07:00

So today..... just like any other day, I spend a couple of hours during my morning to peruse various blogs and newspapers. Today I came across and article in the Wall Street Journal on Obama and his comments about Clarence Thomas. Over the past weekend, both Obama and McCain were invited to the Evangelical congregation at the Saddleback Church Forum. Both candidates attended as they are both competing for the overrated Evangelical vote (who are really a minority in America.. but that's neither here, nor there). Both Candidates were asked who they would have not appointed to the Supreme Court and Obama chose Thomas, along with Scalia and Roberts.

After reading blogs and random comments many people were slightly offended and taken aback by his comments and showed that this was another example of Obama's Elitism view of society. Jessie Jackson, who's ri-dunk-ulous and absurd comments got him in trouble recently, gave an interesting opinion, that others have whispered under their breath (for fear of being maimed and stoned to death from die hard Obama supports) and discussed in other closed quarters....

Has Obama in his attempt to Unify everyone and do everything to negate the idea of being a "Black President", presented himself to be more of an "Elitist" or are these the opinions of individuals with a very "Clouded Vision" of today's present day society?

Now this "Clouded Vision" can be an unintentional response to the constant negative stereotypes of Black men in society and those who stray from those stereotypes are seen as "sellouts" or "bougie". Or it could be that his "polished look" and charismatic voice are seen as fake by some people because "he can't relate to us". Regardless of the reason, as we approach the Democratic convention, I sincerely hope that this "clouded vision" begins to dissipate. This time, more than ever, the democratic party needs to get serious about bringing UNITY. Because, even though most wont admit it (and most of you know I don't give 2 cents about others opinions), I really believe in my heart that if Obama was a White male.... same age, educational status, work experience, same personality, commanding and attractive wife and stable family, with the exact same political views...... we would NOT be having so much discussion about whether he is "real enough", "experienced enough", "smart enough", "black enough", "Christan enough", and any other ridiculous divisive opinion.

Just my 06 cents about the situation.

Hope everyone has a good Monday.... I'M OUT... DEUCES!!

Just cuz Grandma did it, does NOT make it right!!

2008-08-04T08:02:00.001-07:00

Okay folks.... So you know I got some beef with some of you. Since I've decided to get serious about my health, get back on my "Run or Die" workout plan, and watch my diet.... I have had some VERY interesting conversations with people about health. And sadly, the majority of African Americans have memiced their bad diet choices and health behaviors from their Grandparents, who most likely had very little knowledge about the things we did and eat and how it would affect us in the long run. I right now i'm about to rant about three things: FOOD, WEIGHT, and FINANCE.

FOOD

Okay so you know this is my #1 problem with us. Yes soul food tastes good, Yes you know that bad for you. But, why do we still eat it?..... ANSWER: "Cuz grandma made it and she's 75 and she aint dead yet" That answer sums up about 80-90% of the reasons I hear. Yes grandma is 75 and she aint dead yet, but she also got high cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes (BKA "Suga"), colon problems, poor circulation problems, had 8 bypass surgeries, a collapsed kidney, 2 ulcers, and God only knows what kind of Cancer is waiting at her doorstep with a "Guess what you've just won" envelope. Now I loved my grandparents to death, but although they have helped to shape my parents and I into who I am today, they have unfortuantely, also motivated me pursue my career in public health. I have lost BOTH sets of grandparents to cancer (prostate, breast, and ovarian), and too many uncles and aunts from (prostate, lung, and colon). And lets not get started on our lovely friend Diabetes. And although I LOVE them from the deepests pits of my soul and pray that God grant them with the blessing of paradise..... I REFUSE to allow myself to go down this path, If I can do things now to help prevent them.

DIET

This past Friday, I saw probally the most disturbing thing i've seen in a while. Four women (obviously related) came in Applebee's for dinner. A Grandmother, her daughter, and 2 grandkids. What was the obvious trend between them... they were all excessively overweight. One of the kids couldn't have been any more than 10 years old... and that's what REALLY bothered me. We teach our kids to do right from wrong and tell them to live their live's in the example of God, Jesus, Muhammad, or whomever, but we don't provide examples of being healthy. How can we tell our kids how to stay healthy and eat right, we aren't doing them ourselves? Is our future forever doomed? When are we gonna end this vicious cycle of passing down Grandma's "Heart Attack" Mac and Cheese and stop putting in the whole damn pig (or turkey) in our greens. We've got to do better. Its time to tell Big Momma... NO. You aint gotta eat EVERYTHING you see just cuz she cooked it or tried to put it on your plate.

FINANCE

This is a little off from the other two topics, but i still felt the need to talk about it. People, PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE...... Tell Big Momma to stop hiding ALL her money in the house. Hiding money in so many damn places she forgot where da hell it was. Stop hiding all your money in the Bible, under the matress, in the empty coffee can in the kitchen, under the bathroom cabinets, and anywhere else that does not require a deposit slip. Now some of you might laugh and say "That aint me", but you aren't too far from it. Instead of getting direct deposit.... Ray Ray take his check to "Give me all yo money" Check Cashing place and go pay EVERYTHING in cash.... Rent, Water, Lights, you name it.... STOP IT..... NOW!! That mess is triffling... Please go get you a bank account. No, I take that back... Go get two: A banking and a savings acount.

ooooooo.... and another thing... Tell Big Momma to write a Will and Final Testament and stop saying "The Lord is gonna take me wheneva he says and what I can't take with me.... belong to all of ya'lls." I'm tired of seeing black folks fight over who gonna get the Big Screen TV she bought when she won the lottery after spending half of her Social Security Check.

Okay... I'm done with ya'll for today.

Stay Alive!

Spiritual Nourishment!

2008-08-04T07:43:00.000-07:00

So.... although it was always a constant reminder in my head. It just completely clicked in my brain today that Ramadan is in less than a month, and I am REALLY REALLY, looking forward to it this year. Its really time for me to really get myself right. I've come to a crossroad in my life, when I want and need better for myself, so I'm using Ramadan this year for the jump start of some SERIOUS changes. Time to cut bad habits loose... time to cut out wack, unproductive, and trifling people out my life. So if you don't see or hear from me as much in September... just know I'm taking some "ME" time. So what exactly will me time include? Just focusing a lot of my idle, playing energy and time on nourishing myself mentally, physically, and spiritually. So less going out with the peeps, less chillin and hanging just cuz, more reading, more praying, more fasting, and putting all that energy into "ME".... not necessarily a "new ME".... Just a more polished and refined.. ME. Its 2008 everyone.... New Expectations, New Levels, No Boundaries!

Peace and Blessings!

Black in America: The Good, Bad, and Ugly

2008-07-25T15:27:00.001-07:00

Okay.... I almost feel like it would have been a cardinal sin if I didn't comment on this. So today's blog is a serious subject. So over the past few days, myself and millions of other Americans across the country tuned in to CNN at 9pm to catch a glimpse of the over commercialized and under portrayed special entitled "Black in America". The consensus of most people I spoke with about the program was of disappointment, anger, and disbelief. While I do appreciate CNN's attempt to broadening their programs, I too was disappointed, but there are several things that contribute to some viewers disappointment, and several positive things to be taken from this week's programs. I will note them below.

THE GOOD

For the first time in a long time.... CNN made an attempt to provide positive coverage of African Americans. The lives of Harvard and Princeton educated Black men were portrayed and the "you too can rise from the ghetto" story oozed through the TV screens. It also provided an alternative to BET, MTV, and the nauseating waves of "reality television". For the first time in a long time, millions of households in the country willingly watched CNN (for something other than election coverage).... AS A FAMILY. Husbands, wives, children, grandparents, and friends were able to sit down for a limited period of time and had post conversations afterwards. So it is important to know that at least we know our problems and concerns are no longer silent in households.

Probably one of the most appreciated things about the show was the follow up of the Black male w/ 2 kids who was job hunting. Although I am a strong supporter of higher education, the simple fact of life is that school isn't for everyone. However, I appreciate and salute all of our brothers who are striving to make things happen to provide for themselves and their children, legally of course. The brother actually had some college, but decided to leave school in order to work and support his family.

THE BAD

Wow.... where do I start. For one the program showed very limited and uncomprehensive depictions of the lives of African Americans. Too many negative depictions of African Americans were shown to overshadow the good. Yea we know about the shortage of Black males in colleges, but what about the thousands of Black males who graduate every year with Bachelors, Masters, PhD, MD, etc. who strived so much for better. Why were there no depictions of students who graduated from HBCU's? Why not include clips from graduations from Howard, Morehouse, Hampton, etc.?

Where was the history lesson? I was really disappointed that there was no historical context given and that is a very important part of the current status of African Americans. And no I'm not just talking about slavery, or the civil rights movement (which is too overshadowed by Dr. King).

Okay... I have to comment on the lil kids who were being paid to go to school...WTF!!! There are sooo many other things you can do to promote education to the youth other than PAY THEM!! This really irked my soul. "Lets pay the poor lil ghetto kids so they can keep going to school" How about challenge the educational system to change their curriculum from this pseudo European style of education enhanced with over testing of students and little change in educational style over the past hundred years.

THE UGLY

I dont have any UGLY. (i'm mainly being lazy cuz im tired of typing). But why was the program slated at 9pm, which is hella late for a 2 hour show. It was almost like we were important enough to do a show, but not important enough during prime time hours.

Stay Tuned for next time.

Welcome to My World

2008-07-25T15:12:00.000-07:00

Sooooo..... by popular request (and by the subtle peer pressure from everyone else's blog), I have finally succumbed to the idea of a blog. Here you will find my random rants and raves about the ills and failures of life and society by others, as well as praises, shout-outs, and affirmations to those people trying to make it happen in today's world. And from time to time I may come on here to ask for advice from my fellow bloggers.

So sit down, relax, grab one of grandma's mason jars filled with ICE COLD lemonade (I don't do "red" Kool-Aid) open up a pack of Teddy Grahams and enjoy the show.

Feel free to suggests topics for me to comment on as well.

PEACE & BLESSINGS!