Rumor Control: Lisaraye Is Not Gettin It In w/The Rev!

Thanks to friend in my head, Wendy Williams, the rumors have been clarified about Lisaraye and Reverend Al Sharpton. I, like many other sites, were reporting that this rumor just might be true and I was feeling let down by my girl Lisaraye. But thanks to Lisaraye's reps....that can all be put to bed! In fact, her reps say that not only is she NOT sleeping with The Rev. but she's around him because he's a part of her foundation called "Radiant Jewels". The foundation awards scholarships to young girls. Thank you Jesus! I can rest easy now! For a minute I was doubting my girl! I'm soo glad they cleared that up. I can breathe easy! ;)

Gossip Of The Day: Floyd Mayweather & Chili?

That's the word of the day folks! Floyd and Chili are getting their power couple move on! Although, Chili has denied this rumor time and time again. Think about it....I would deny it too. The girl has a dating reality show that will be coming out soon...what would be the sense to watch that if she's already seeing someone? Get it?....Good! Let's carry on. I'm waiting for the fight between Floyd and Sugar Shane to pop off! We'll see if Chili is really dating Floyd if she's got front row seats! ;)

Lil Wayne Gets New Tattoo

As if there wasn't enough tattoos on Lil Wayne, he goes and gets another one. I know some of you will say "He can do what he wants to his body"! And trust me, I understand you on that but why sooo much? When does one say enough? Doesn't this boy have anything better to do than to mark up his face? I'm not judging, I'm just saying! Everyone has an opinion and I'm entitled to mine. I think Superhead said it best in her book "The Vixen Manuel" (which I'm reading right now and will be doing a book review on soon) and she says "Opinions are like assholes. Everyone has one and they are all full of shit"! I guess she told me!

By the way, can anyone tell me what the tattoo is? I have no idea what that shit is on his face! I'm hearing he got the new tattoo for his birthday. Help a sista out! Another photo below:

Essence Atkins Gets Married

This past weekend Essence Atkins got married to Jamie Mendez, former NFL player turned financial executive. They met on Match.com because Essence was tired of dealing with industry cats. :) I don't blame you girl! They will give you nothing but heartache because the temptation is ridiculous! The average hooker with an ass is all it takes to blow their mind! Where am I going with this? I'm soo getting off topic today....please bare with me. Anywho, the two had a quiet ceremony at the Ambassador Mansion and Gardens in Pasadena, California.



The newlyweds gave an exclusive interview to Essence.com. Check it out below:

Digital Dating: Most of us wouldn't guess that beautiful Hollywood actresses turn to dating Web sites to find a man. But alas, Essence Atkins of "Half & Half" fame did just that. The Brooklyn-bred, Los Angeles-based starlet was over meeting men in the entertainment industry and began searching for a change of pace. She found just that in Jaime Mendez, a retired NFL player turned financial exec from the Midwest, through Match.com. On February 14, 2008, Essence and Jaime corresponded on the site for the first time. "I wrote him a quick little note that I had read his profile, and then I signed off, Happy SAD Day - that's Single Awareness Day," says Essence. A week later they had their first date and soon after the duo was an official couple.

Family First: In June of 2008, Essence and Jaime traveled to Las Vegas to celebrate Father's Day with Jaime's family. "We had a great weekend and it was the first time I had been around his family for an extended period," explains the actress. But on the drive home, Jaime received the unfortunate news that his grandfather fell ill. When Jaime decided to return to Vegas to be with his loved ones, Essence immediately dropped everything to be with her beau. When Jaime found out his grandfather didn't make it, Essence was right by his side. "We wrote his grandfather's obituary together. I saw his selflessness and strength during that time," recalls Essence. "I realized then he was all I wanted".

You know them babies are next right? ;) Don't say I didn't tell you!

Willie of Day 26 Responds 2 Pic Scandal

My boy, Willie, of Day 26, tells Hip Hollywood exactly how he feels about his naked pics being plastered all over the internet! I never noticed how manly he was compared to the other members. I mean I've watched "Making The Band" and to be honest.....they all seemed a little off to me. Just my opinion. Don't even get me started on what I think about Que. That opinion will be reserved for another day. Let me get back to the topic at hand. Willie has finally given us actual video on what he thinks of the whole naked picture scandal going on right now. Check his response out below:



He handled that like a true G! :)

That Used 2 Be My Joint Part 4

I know I've been slacking on the "That Used To Be My Joint" posts but I will try my best to bring it back! A loyal reader of the site brought this song to my attention and I remember (back in the days) when hearing this joint, I always thought Cannibus' verse was the best one on the track! Redman did his thing too but Cannibus had that flair! I also couldn't for the love of Jesus remember who the other artist on the song was. My loyal reader told me it was A+. Do yall remember him? I sure didn't. I'll be posting some more on A+ in a few days but for now here's the Lost Boyz featuring Redman, A+ and Cannibus on "Beasts From The East" below:

AP: Vick calls dogfighting "pointless" in D.C. Church

Michael Vick addresses a Washington, D.C., church about dogfighting
Vick called dogfighting "pointless" and doesn't know why he risked his career
Vick was released from federal prison July 20 after serving 18 months
WASHINGTON (AP) -- Michael Vick told a sparse crowd at a Washington church on Tuesday that dogfighting is pointless and he doesn't know why he risked his career for it.

"I got caught up in the culture," the Philadelphia Eagles quarterback said at Covenant Baptist Church, in one of the city's poorest neighborhoods. "I never thought that I would get caught."

The former Atlanta Falcons star was released from federal custody July 20 after serving 18 months of a 23-month sentence for running the ring in Surry County, Va.

The church appearance was sponsored by the Humane Society of the United States. Vick has been working with the group since his release and has appeared at similar events in Atlanta, Chicago and Philadelphia.
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CNN: Suspect admits role in beating death of Chicago teen

Eugene Riley, left, Silvanus Shannon, middle, and Eugene Bailey were charged with murder.

One of the suspects accused of killing an honor student in a beating captured on tape in Chicago has admitted to jumping on the victim's head after he was already lying on the ground, said a spokeswoman for the Cook County state's attorney.



In the videotaped confession, 19-year-old Silvanus Shannon also said that the victim, Derrion Albert, 16, never struck him, said the spokeswoman, Tandra Simonton.

Three teens arrested in Albert's death -- Silvanus Shannon, 19; Eric Carson, 16; and Eugene Riley, 18 -- were seen on the videotape attacking Albert, and were charged with first degree murder and held without bail, Simonton said. Monday night authorities said they charged a fourth suspect, 17-year-old Eugene Bailey, with murder.

On Monday during the bond hearing, prosecutors described how the street fight escalated from a dispute between two factions at Albert's high school to a beating that left the honor student dead.

Prosecutors said Albert was an "innocent bystander" who ended up in the middle of a street fight between two factions of students at his school, Christian Fenger Academy High school, on Chicago's South Side.
READ MORE

Slain Chicago high school student's mother speaks out "He was trying to help another student"..sometimes you just have to walk away

This video is senseless and there has to be a change..where were the adults though?!?!?!

This young man should not be dead right now. It's time for everyone to raise up and say "enough!" How many young black men will have to die before this generation understands that we need to mentor our young brothers and sisters into life. "It takes a village to raise a child."




I have to say that this definitely should not have happened..its sad and I feel like for the adults to come out at the end of the fight, shows that this "community center" needs to take some of the blame.

BLACK GIRLS ROCK! INC. HONORS MARY J. BLIGE, NAOMI CAMPBELL, DR. SONIA SANCHEZ, RAVEN-SYMONÉ & MORE AT THE 4TH ANNUAL BLACK GIRLS ROCK!

BLACK GIRLS ROCK! INC. HONORS MARY J. BLIGE, NAOMI CAMPBELL, DR. SONIA SANCHEZ, RAVEN-SYMONÉ, JANELLE MONÁE, IYANLA VANZANT, & MORE AT THE 4TH ANNUAL BLACK GIRLS ROCK! AWARDS FUNDRAISER

AAcclaimed actresses Regina King and Tracee Ellis Ross will co-host this star-studded event to honor the achievements of outstanding women of color and raise funds for BLACK GIRLS ROCK! Inc.

September 29, 2009, New York, NY- On Saturday, October 17, 2009 stars will gather at the illustrious Times Center in the heart of New York City for the 4th Annual BLACK GIRLS ROCK! Awards co-hosted by esteemed actresses Regina King and Tracee Ellis Ross. The show will honor the achievements of exceptional women of color in fashion, media, business, the arts and entertainment, and public service.

Now in its fourth year, the BLACK GIRLS ROCK! Awards show serves as the premiere fundraising event for BLACK GIRLS ROCK! Inc., a nonprofit youth empowerment mentoring organization founded by celebrity DJ, Beverly Bond. Grammy Award winner and founder of FFAWN, Mary J. Blige will be receiving the BLACK GIRLS ROCK! "Icon" Award. Trailblazer, entrepreneur, & actress Raven-Symoné will be taking home the BLACK GIRLS ROCK! "Young, Gifted, and Black" Award. Supermodel and fashion Icon, Naomi Campbell will be receiving the BLACK GIRLS ROCK! "Fashionista" Award. The BLACK GIRLS ROCK! "Who's Got Next" Award will go to urban-alternative singer, songwriter, Wondaland Arts Society/Atlantic recording artist Janelle Monáe. Award-winning poet playwright and activist Dr. Sonia Sanchez will be receiving the BLACK GIRLS ROCK! "Living Legend" Award. The BLACK GIRLS ROCK! "Community Service" Award will be given to TruthAIDS founder, activist and White House Fellow, Dr. Mehret Mandefro. Inspirational speaker, author, and television personality Iyanla Vanzant will be taking home the BLACK GIRLS ROCK! "Shot Caller" Award.

Additional honorees include World-renowned DJ and media personality DJ Spinderella, who will be receiving the BLACK GIRLS ROCK! "Jazzy Joyce DJ" Award and Grammy Award winner Anthony Hamilton, who will be receiving the only award given to a man, the BLACK GIRLS ROCK! "Soul Brother #1" Award.Other participants include: actress Kerry Washington, 2008 BGR! Award recipient Bethann Hardison, philanthropists Danny Simmons and Jessica Seinfeld, renowned visual artist Vic Muniz, multi-platinum producer Bryan-Michael Cox, acclaimed fashion designer Catherine Malandrino, and more.

“I am proud that BLACK GIRLS ROCK! is at the forefront of a movement inspiring women of color to take charge of our images, our dignity, and our impact on the world. The annual BLACK GIRLS ROCK! Award show is our way of saying 'Thank You' to these stellar women whose exemplary achievements help to navigate future generations towards excellence" said Bond.

BLACK GIRLS ROCK! is undergoing a strategic shift towards national expansion, answering the call to service of President Barack Obama by mentoring, educating, and empowering young girls.

Ticket information for the annual gala can be found at http://www.blackgirlsrockinc.com/Awards09


BLACK GIRLS ROCK! Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, youth empowerment mentoring organization established for young women of color. Proceeds from ticket sales will benefit BLACK GIRLS ROCK! Inc. and will help the organization fulfill its mission of empowering young woman of color via the arts. All contributions are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law.




THE 2009 FOURTH ANNUAL BLACK GIRLS ROCK!TM AWARDS HOSTED BY CELEBRATED
ACTRESSES REGINA KING AND TRACEE ELLIS ROSS,
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 17TH, AT THE NEW YORK TIMES CENTER

THE 2009 BLACK GIRLS ROCK!TM AWARDS ANNUAL FUNDRAISER WILL HONOR
MARY J. BLIGE, RAVEN SYMONÉ, SONIA SANCHEZ, NAOMI CAMPBELL, JANELLE MONÁE,
DR. MEHRET MANDEFRO AND OTHERS

WHO: Hosts Regina King and Tracee Ellis Ross. The 2009 honorees include Grammy
Award winner Mary J. Blige, trailblazer, entrepreneur, & actress Raven Symoné,
legendary poet and playwright Sonia Sanchez, Wondaland Arts Society/Atlantic
recording artist Janelle Monáe, supermodel and fashion Icon, Naomi Campbell and
TruthAIDS founder, activist and White House Fellow, Dr. Mehret Mandefro. Other
participants include: actress Kerry Washington, philanthropist Jessica Seinfeld,
Essence Magazine's Emil Wilbekin, renowned visual artist Vic Muniz, multi-platinum
producer Bryan-Michael Cox and more. The full list of honorees for The Fourth
Annual BLACK GIRLS ROCK!TMAwards will be announced on September 15th.

WHAT: The Fourth Annual BLACK GIRLS ROCK!TMAwards will be held on Saturday, October
17th, at the new and exciting Times Center located in the heart of New York City's
vibrant Times Square District. Founded by philanthropist and internationally
acclaimed DJ, Beverly Bond, the annual benefit is BLACK GIRLS ROCK!TMInc.’s main
fundraising event to provide creative arts programs and mentoring for teenage
women of color. In the past, the awards have brought together a cadre of some of the
most influential names in entertainment, business, education, fashion, politics and
philanthropy. Honorees and participants have included Iman, Erykah Badu, Jennifer
Hudson, Melvin Van Peebles, Chrisette Michele, President of Spelman College, Dr.
Beverly Daniel Tatum, Bethann Hardison, Missy Elliot, Veronica Webb, Susan L.
Taylor, Pam Grier, Idris Elba, Estelle, Ryan Leslie, Sylvia Rhone and more.

WHERE: The New York Times Center
242 West 41st Street
New York, NY 10018

WHEN: Saturday, October 17th, 2009
Red Carpet Arrivals: 6:30 – 8:00 PM
Ceremony: 8:00 – 10:00 PM

WHY: BLACK GIRLS ROCK!TM Inc. is a 501c3 nonprofit, youth empowerment mentoring
organization established for young women of color with a mission to promote the arts
and encourage positive life-changing activity, critical thinking, and promotes a more
balanced and positive depiction of women of color in entertainment and the media.
For more information please visit www.blackgirlsrock.org.


To purchase tickets for The 4th Annual BLACK GIRLS ROCK!TM Awards, please visit
http://blackgirlsrockinc.com/Awards09/ or www.blackgirlsrock.org.
For all press inquiries contact Nicole Marzan nicole@kinetixintegrated.com or 646.549.1356

For sponsorship inquiries contact Miatta David, Miatta@mvdinc.us or 212.244.5436

Beyonce has 139 page "Bible" of demands at concerts backstage..kicked Lindsay Lohan out of best dressing room!

Beyonce told everyone that B is in the building! She has serious demands and Who Cares! She's the biggest superstar in the world right now..if she was Madonna I don't think people would be so upset..damn Brits..lol! Here's some of the items she needs:
B would arrive 20 minutes before her performance in full stage gear covered by a white gown, and needed six white rooms with an air purifier in each.

Her six beauty chambers had three lit mirrors, fitness equipment and an authentic fruit platter.

And the bible revealed the star’s secret weapon to maintaining that Bootylicious derriere is none other than ’80s weight loss milkshake Slimfast.

Yep, sachets of the high street food substitute were all over her rooms along with 15 bottles of ice cold water, 15 bottles of room temperature water, six fresh lemons, six medium pots of honey and a box of straws.

Bey also brought a camera crew filming a secret documentary, and told all other TV crews not to bother bringing their cameras.
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Derwin Is Modelling Nowadays

I know Derwin is not his name but Pooch Hall will forever exist in my mind as Derwin! Being a huge fan of "The Game" I was sad to see it go....just like with "Girlfriends" (another favorite show of mine). But don't think the checks have stopped rolling in for Derwin...I mean Pooch Hall! Check him out modelling (I'm guessing his new gig?) for the DJ Premium clothing line coming out fall this year below:





I don't know about yall but looking at the pic above made me say out loud: "How you doin?" Not saying he is but by the looks of it I'm questioning! ;)

Nick Cannon Named Chairman of TV Network TeenNick w/video by Kenya N. Byrd

Don't let Nick Cannon's baby face fool you. He's a grown-behind-man with grown-behind-responsibilities as the chairman of TeenNick (formerly known as Nickelodeon). But he's not your average fuddy-duddy-white-collar dude, Cannon, who jump-started his career as a comedian, actor, producer and writer, will manage to do close-ups on camera, get busy behind the lens, and do a little Web work. ESSENCE.com caught up with Cannon, who turns 30 next month, to talk prophecy, how he's preparing for fatherhoood, and why discovering the fountain of youth works for him.


ESSENCE.COM: Mr. Cannon, it appears that you were destined to head TeenNick, especially since it now bears your first name. How prophetic is that?
NICK CANNON: (Laughs.) It's just one of those things. If I was named Babs I don't think it could have worked, so it had to be in the making. No, seriously, I'm grateful for the opportunity because I consider them family because they gave me my first opportunity when I was 17. Now, at 28, it allows me to explore it through different eyes. It's my training and playing ground.

ESSENCE.COM: How do you stay connected to the younger fans?
CANNON: I try to stay in tune as much as I can. It's one of the reasons I continue to deejay at nightclubs and I'm always on the Internet because I like to be in the know and on the verge of the next thing. Every aspect of my life focuses on staying in the know and I don't plan to lose that any time soon. It's definitely one of my assets to be that ultimate tastemaker. I'm not taking any of this for granted nor am I taking it too seriously. When I was younger things always seemed like they were life or death but now that I've mature I know that as long as you wake up every morning you have a chance to make things happen for the better.

ESSENCE.COM: Indeed, but this is also great preparation for fatherhood.
CANNON: Absolutely. To be in a leadership position at a corporation allows you to understand the kind of management skills that can also be useful in parenting. You learn when you have to be stern and when to let things roll off your back. I'm the oldest of five kids so even before this job I was raising kids because I grew up with my grandmother and as the eldest it was my duty to keep an eye on everyone else.


ESSENCE.COM: And you continue to look out for teenagers by acknowledging their service to the community through the TeenNick Halo Award. How essential is it to pay a respectful nod?
CANNON: TeenNick Halo Award recognizes everyday teens. More importantly than that this generation is more in tune with service and making the world a better place way more than we give them credit. We always want to entertain them with celebrity and gossip but when you really do the research this generation really wants to get out there and inspire others and the only way you can do that is by giving them more opportunities.

ESSENCE.COM: It's all about paying it forward. So before you go, do you think you’ve finally grown into your youthful appearance?
CANNON: (Laughs.) It used to bother me and get on my nerves when I was 21 and looked 15 but now I'm happy to look the way I do, and it works for me.

NFL Star Thomas Jones on Life and Love by Charreah Jackson

Forget all the stereotypes you've heard about Black ball players. In his quiet and humble way, New York Jets' Thomas Jones is redefining what it means to be a sports star as he takes care of his family and friends, finishes his Masters degree in education and builds a strong and monagmous relationship with actress girlfriend Megan Good.
ESSENCE.COM: Mr. Jones, you are more than meets the eye. What would people be surprised to know about you and what are some of the stereotypes you face as an athlete?
THOMAS JONES: Well, the three main stereotypes I hear about athletes that aren't true are we aren't intelligent, that we are greedy and that we don't give back. I am finishing my Masters in Education and have always worked just as hard in school, as s on the field. I never hear anything about my scholarship, but if I say something in the moment it's everywhere. At the end of the day, everyone can't do this job, so it's easy to say we're greedy, but we put our lives on the line. It's like getting into a car accident every week when we're on the field. There is a lot of responsibility that comes with being in the limelight, and we have to try extra hard to keep ourselves out of trouble. It's hard. Trouble tries to find you.
ESSENCE.COM: Definitely. You've kept yourself out of trouble. What do you credit your success to?
JONES: My family has been the foundation. If it wasn't for my dad, I wouldn't be where I am. He pushed me. I had to get A's and B's or I couldn't play ball; he made me do sit-ups, push-ups; I had to make my bed. I had to read the front page of the paper before I could read sports. It all played a big role in who I am. My parents are working on a book called "Blessings From the Dust." My mom worked in the Virgina coal mine for 20 years to support us. My parents raised seven kids and they are an example of what a lot of people would want to be. They've been married for 35 years, and all their kids went to school. My brother and I are both in the NFL. It's amazing. When he does well, I'm more happy than when I do.
ESSENCE.COM: With such a busy schedule, how do you make your relationship with Megan [Good] work?
JONES: I look at it as something I want to do, and we take it one day at a time. I don't look at it like it's work. The reality is I work in New York and she works in L.A., but we are fortunate we have jobs where it's flexible. I'm in New York for five months of the year and the other time I am wherever she is. To me, it's what you make it. I've never seen myself as a celebrity, which is probably because I'm from a small town. I'm just blessed I get to do something I love to do. She's the same way, and really humble. We may be at the mall or the movies, and people will say what are y'all doing here. We're doing the same thing everyone else does.
ESSENCE.COM: And being in a relationship, how is it dealing with groupies who have their eyes set on a snagging an athlete?
JONES: It's tough. A lot of things men do is for women, from wanting nice bodies to jewelry. So when you are in a situation where plenty of women are around you, it's tempting. But if guys look at the big picture as a whole, it would be easier to make decisions. I've been blessed to make it through a lot of situations. Anything I'm doing, if [Megan's] not there, she knows. Period.
ESSENCE.COM: Good to hear. So what are thoughts for Black women when it comes to love?
JONES: Don't expect something you aren't working towards. Don't look for a man to respect you when you don't respect yourself. Everything you do eventually will come back, though it might not happen when you expect. You have to work on you. People say they want a good guy or have been praying, and a lot of time God gives you that time to work on yourself. That way when you do find him, you're ready. A lot of times, somebody will come across your path, and you're not ready for that, or you're looking for something else, and it's right in front of you.
source

Actress Joy Bryant not inspired by Tyra Banks' 'natural hair' reveal, admits to being a weave-a-holic.

Ouch! My tailbone really hurts when I sit on hard surfaces or slouched down in a chair for too long. That’s what I get from busting my butt from too much snowboarding. It makes it really hard to sit in a salon chair for hours on end getting my weave hooked up.
But oh, how we suffer for beauty...I must bring a pillow next time.

As the threads of the grown-out tracks were being snipped, I broke out my laptop and began my ritualistic daily web search. I go from news of the day to articles/blogs about the news of the day, ending up on entertainment/gossip/fashion stuff.
But that day, something caught my attention and trumped all of the glowing reviews of President Obama’s health care speech:

It was Tyra’s hair.

National Real Hair Day? I missed that one...In fact, on National Real Hair Day, I was calling Extensions Plus in L.A. to make sure they had enough of the 20” "relaxed roots" texture hair that I love oh so much (and that keeps selling out like crazy!), and making an appointment to get my hair, I mean, my weave, hooked up.

So Tyra, while I didn’t take part in your observance, I just want to say: "WOW!" You are such a brave woman for breaking the chains that bound you since your teenage years! What courage that took, for you to expose yourself to millions of people! Such fearlessness!
Oh, how I wish I had the guts to do that. I guess I’m much too much of an insecure, self-loathing Negro for all that self-acceptance foolishness.
I’m glad we got down to solving the mystery of what’s under your lace-front, though. I mean seriously, it was "THE" question that has perplexed the world over. And now we see that there’s a beautiful head of hair underneath it all, hair that was surprisingly relaxed and ready for the world. Whodathunkit?! If I had the same length and fullness of hair that you have, I might take my weave out too.

Ha!!!! I’m just playing! Even if I DID have your "real" hair, I’d still be wearing a few tracks or clip-ons up in there.

Why?

Because I’m straight weave fo life, kid!!!

Ima ride ride wit this weave, die die with this weave!!

Let me break it down for you:
See, I loooooove taking new hair out of the bag, combing through it with my fingers, holding it up with my two hands, and burying my face in it. Mmmm, mmmm, mmm! Nothing like a new batch of zig-zag curly to get your self esteem out of the dumps!

The feeling of getting my hair, I mean, my weave done over. I feel human again. I feel sexy. I feel powerful. It makes me feel...it makes me feel...it makes feel like a natural woman!!!
I can be whatever, whoever I want to be with the stroke of a sewing needle...
With long brown tresses and a tan, I’m Pocahontas, 'cause I got Indian in my family. With easy waves, I AM bohemian rhapsody goddess personified. And now that I got blond highlights! What!? I know I look like Beyonce! You can’t tell me nothing! Uh oh, uh oh...
And then I looked up from my computer, and caught a glimpse in the mirror of my head minus the long weavy locks. I looked crazy! Awww hell naw! I looked over at the new batch of hair sitting off to the side waiting to join forces with me. Damnit, I’m trapped, I thought to myself. I can’t let it go. I am powerless over it. Just when I think I’m done, it pulls me back in!

Now I guess I can get help for my self-loathing addiction.
I can learn to accept myself in my entirety. I can emancipate myself from that which keeps me locked-up. I can embrace the natural state of things.

Yup, I can do all of that…

But don’t hold your breath!

Hi, my name is Joy, and I’m a weave-a-holic.



Thanks!

Tricia
more here

Kandi Burruss Dishes on 'Housewives' and Plans for New Boutique

As if "The Real Housewives of Atlanta" costar Kandi Burruss doesn't already have her hands full as a Grammy-winning songwriter and singer, she's about to make her foray into the world of fashion.

In October, the mocha beauty will open the doors of TAGS, a unisex boutique located in South Atlanta's section of The Vinings. Despite her monetary success, the single mother of three admits she's a frugal spender.
"I like to shop within a budget," Burruss told ESSENCE.com. "So the clothes will look expensive but be affordable."
Burruss plans to team with Peaches, a veteran boutique owner, who will manage the day-to-day operations. "I don't want it to be about me," says Burruss. "Fashion-forward women and men will be able to find something they like without breaking the bank."
During a visit to ESSENCE's New York office, the reality star and single mom revealed one of the slogans that she and her partner are strongly considering: "Pop Bottles. Pop Cherries. Pop Tags." Well, alrighty then.—KNB
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Diddy dumps Atlantic Records

Diddy Leaves Warner Music Group



Sean "Diddy" Combs has left the building.

According to Billboard.com, the music mogul has ended his brief tenure with Warner Music Group. Oddly enough it comes less than a month after Vice President Kevin Liles severed his ties with the label.

In a statement released by the label, Diddy said: “It has been a truly rewarding experience partnering with the Warner Music Group and Atlantic Records over the past five years. Now that the term of the Warner deal has ended, I have elected to accept an opportunity to move my recording career and future label venture to another company. I have the utmost respect for Edgar Bronfman, Jr., Lyor Cohen, Julie Greenwald, Craig Kallman and the entire Warner/Atlantic team and look forward to our continued partnership in connection with the Bad Boy catalog.” --KNB

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Derek Luke Talks New Show 'Trauma,' Dealing With Fame, and What Makes Him Squirm by Kenya N. Byrd

Some actors thrive on showboating while others simply lay low and showcase their talent. Derek Luke represents the latter and has since his critically acclaimed debut in "Antwone Fisher" in 2002. Although he has worked steadily, the Jersey City, New Jersey, native has carefully diversified his résumé opting for meatier roles rather than collect a paycheck just because. Now, he gets his hands dirty and hearts racing on NBC's high-octane medical drama "Trauma" as EMT worker Cameron Boone. ESSENCE.com sat down with Luke to talk about the one thing he fears the most, the benefits of donning a uniform, and maintaining a life of normalcy in a media-driven society.

ESSENCE.COM: So, Mr. Luke, how in the world did you prepare for such explosive action?
DEREK LUKE: There's a part of me that's on a mission to do the explosive, blowing up and jumping off the cliff into the sea and coming out on a horse. As far as my training, well, I jumped over train stiles and got past the cops when I used to travel from Jersey to New York (laughs). I remember only having a dollar to my name. Now how do you leave Jersey for Manhattan knowing that the dollar you have is for a hot dog and a drink? (laughs).

ESSENCE.COM: The special effects on "Trauma" look so real. What makes you squirm?
LUKE: (Laughs.) Needles! Big, bad..needles. It's like that first pinch of it, especially when they try to convince you it's not going to hurt and it's already been in you for longer than 10 seconds, and you're like, "Hello it's still in there!"

ESSENCE.COM: (Laughs.) So what do you love most about donning a uniform?
LUKE: I love the authority that comes along with it and I can see how people abuse it. It's amazing how people respond to authority and how some people lean so much on that uniform. One day I walked across the street while on-set in uniform and this guy who looks like he published books for a living was in a minivan and he stopped abruptly and I saw him easing his seatbelt on. I'm thinking, Good idea, but wrong uniform!" (Laughs.) And then another time I was in the ambulance and they let us drive for a few blocks; we're doing our lines and traffic doesn't stop, so I turn on my siren and it was like parting the red sea, and I couldn't help but think, "That's whassup!" (Laughs.)

ESSENCE.COM: So you created your own express lane! Love it! Is there anything about your notoriety you could live without?
LUKE: A situation like my wife and I losing our child because of a miscarriage reminds me so much of that little bit of my character and what people think they know of you and your identity on the outside, but the reality is that you're a different person when you return home. My wife and I had to learn that the rules of fame are that you must take time to rest for your soul and spirit to deal with the aftershock of people getting the wrong news, late news and or timely news.

ESSENCE.COM: We're sorry for your loss. Do you ever get used to your fame?
LUKE: It's very easy to remain humble when you know that the fame didn't come from you and that you are part of a mission or service. So it's easy for me to meet people or fans because the thing about fame is that it attracts, and when it does it's all about what you do with those people it attracts. I pressed pause on my TV the other day and I just sat there and looked at my name and the title and said, "Wow, my name is on the screen. This is what you really wanted. That's pretty cool and pretty big!" So I know that I'm blessed to be doing what I love.
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New Music: Chris Brown ft. Lil Wayne - I Can Transform Ya

This here is the first official song off of Chris Brown's "Graffiti" album called "I Can Transform Ya" featuring Lil Wayne. Swizz Beatz produced this joint! Check it out below:



What are your thoughts on the joint? Would love to know. :)

Stop The Press!!! Lisaraye Dating Rev. Al Sharpton?!

Say it ain't so Lisaraye?!!! Have you hit an all time low that you have sunk to this level? Breathe in. Breathe out. I'm feeling kind of fuzzy in the head due to the news I'm hearing. I cannot believe this rumor (that's what it is at the moment until someone confirms it for me) because it just doesn't make sense! You mean to tell me you go from the 1st lady of Turks and Caicos to the 1st lady who will be rushing Rev. Al Sharpton to the dialysis center!!? This is sooo not a good look! The YBF is reporting that the two have been dating for months! REALLY?! I'm at a loss. Check out the story according to The YBF below:

Here's what we know: A few weeks ago our source (a MAJOR publicist in the industry who shall remain nameless) told us that Al and LisaRaye--both barely divorced--are indeed together now. When we asked the obligatory "WTF?! Why?" The answer is because Lisa knows she's not getting onto any of these "society and political" events without a man who could bring her along. She's also starved for attention from the media--surprise surprise--so Al is her "In" into that world. And Al--well he's just happy to say he can have a chick that looks like LisaRaye on his arm and whose perm looks better than his.

Sad to say, but this thing here just might be true! This isn't the first time I've seen photos of Rev. Al Sharpton and Lisaraye together. Check out more photos below:





As the saying goes "Jesus Take The Wheel" because someone is out of control!

AP: Racial Bias Eyed in Jayson Williams' Manslaughter Trial

SOMERVILLE, N.J. -- Current and former employees of a New Jersey prosecutor's office will be asked whether the manslaughter case against black former NBA star Jayson Williams has been racially biased.
The hearings this week grew out of news that an investigator with the Hunterdon County prosecutor's office used a racial slur to describe Williams after a hired driver was fatally shot at his mansion in 2002.
Williams was acquitted in 2004 of aggravated manslaughter in the death of Costas "Gus" Christofi. He was convicted of trying to cover up the crime and faces retrial on a reckless manslaughter count. FULL STORY

New Videos: Marques Houston - How I Do

Here's the newest video from Marques Houston called "How I Do". I kind of like the joint. I'm probably going to have to listen to it a few more times to really get the full effect of it. Either way, I would love to know what you guys think of it. Would you put this on while alone with your loved one? Or will you be screaming "GO HOME ROGER!" LMAO! I had to throw that one in there but for now check out the new video below:



Marques has sure come along way since this:



Do you remember that joint? Or am I the only one? ;)

Mesac Damas: 'I want death, right away...'

By Alicia Cruz

Senior writer

Theblackurbantimes.com

In a country all too familiar with tragedy, the heinous crime Mesac Damas has been accused of comitting has locals in Damas' native, Haiti, sickened and saddened.

{Photo of the Damas children}

“He’s a crazy man,” said Pierre Jean-Dreuban, 33, a news reporter in Haiti. Louis Wilkins, an officer with the Haitian National Police, said, “It’s a crime... this guy should burn for it.”

Damas has been charged with mudering his wife, 32 year-old Guerline Dieu and their five children, Meshach "Zack", 9, Maven 6, Marven 5, Megan, 3, and Morgan, 19 months who were found stabbed September 19 in their Naples, Florida townhome with their throats slit.

The reporter asked Damas why he killed them and he answered, “Only God knows.” The reporter then asked Damas if he wanted to be sentenced to death. Damas reply was, “I want death, right away. Because I think my family is going to be buried Saturday. I want the jury to give me death right away so I can be buried with them at the same time.”

{Photo of Guerline Damas, in her 1998 Lely High School yearbook.}

When the reporter asked Damas why he committed the murders, he replied that the "evil spirits that his wife’s mother worshipped" made him do it.

Mr. & Mrs. Damas, who had been together for 10 years, but had only been married for two year, had a history of domestic violence. Damas had been charged with misdemeanor battery in January after he assaulted Guerline Damas while she held their baby daughter in her arms.

He pled no contest to that charge and was given 12 months probation and ordered to attend parenting classes and a battery intervention program.

{The Damas' on their wedding day in 2007}

The state Department of Children and Families had visited the Damas' home three days before the chilling murders, but reported that the caseworker found "nothing amiss."
Damas was booked into the Collier County Jail five days ago where he is being held without bond and is under suicide watch.

He is not allowed any visitors except for his court appointed attorney, Michael Orlando. Damas' attorney has stated that his client plans to plead not guilty to the murder charges.

Collier Circuit Court Judge Frank Baker has ordered that Dr. Paul Kling, a Fort Myers Florida clinical psychologist, examine Damas in order to determine the competency of the defendant.
The judge granted Damas' public defender's motion for an expert to assist him in Mesac's defense and to determine his Mesac's competency.

Judeg Baker granted the motion, noting that Orlando had "stated reasonable grounds to believe the defendant may be incompetent to proceed and/or may have been insane at the time of the offense."

Depending on the medical findings, the State Attorney's Office would then hire its own forensic medical expert to examine Damas and if that exam is contradictory to the defense expert's report, another defense expert could be hired to examine Damas' competency.



{Photo of Mesac Damas from his Facebook page}

New Movies: A Nightmare On Elm Street

Freddy Kruger is back yall!! Are any of you getting tired of the same old villains coming back to life to torture more victims? I know I am! But.....it's still my job to bring you the latest and the greatest! :) Freddy Kruger is back to killing folks in their dreams!

Back when I was young and watched "Nightmare On Elm Street" for the first time (which was ages ago) I had nightmares about him running his bladed fingers on metal and chasing me through my own damn neighborhood! It looks like he's up to his same old antics! ;) Watch the new movie below which will be out April 30, 2010:

A Nightmare on Elm Street in HD


BTW, would you be going out to the movies to watch? Would love to know!

Yung Berg Gets Punched By Old Manager

Why do people still mess with Yung Berg? When is it going to come to a point where we just leave this man alone? Why are we still picking at this guy? Well, apparently this is some old footage of Yung Berg getting knocked upside his head by one of his old managers. What I didn't agree with is if you have a problem with someone don't wait until they turn around and then try to knock them out....BE A MAN and do it while they are facing you! That was a sucker move and definitely a sucker punch! And more importantly, was Berg with his peoples? I don't know about any of you guys but if I was with my homegirls and someone sucker punched me!.......my whole team would've been throwing down! That's just how we do but I know everyone ain't built like that. :) Anywho, watch it all go down below:

AP: Summer break might be gone soon kids..Obama would curtail summer vacation

By LIBBY QUAID, AP Education Writer Libby Quaid, Ap Education Writer – Sun Sep 27, 3:29 pm ET

WASHINGTON – Students beware: The summer vacation you just enjoyed could be sharply curtailed if President Barack Obama gets his way.

Obama says American kids spend too little time in school, putting them at a disadvantage with other students around the globe.

"Now, I know longer school days and school years are not wildly popular ideas," the president said earlier this year. "Not with Malia and Sasha, not in my family, and probably not in yours. But the challenges of a new century demand more time in the classroom."

The president, who has a sixth-grader and a third-grader, wants schools to add time to classes, to stay open late and to let kids in on weekends so they have a safe place to go.

"Our school calendar is based upon the agrarian economy and not too many of our kids are working the fields today," Education Secretary Arne Duncan said in a recent interview with The Associated Press.

Fifth-grader Nakany Camara is of two minds. She likes the four-week summer program at her school, Brookhaven Elementary School in Rockville, Md. Nakany enjoys seeing her friends there and thinks summer school helped boost her grades from two Cs to the honor roll.
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The Black Urban Times has gone mobile!!

Check out new mobile website on your iphone, blackberry, sidekick, palm pre, or other mobile device. Same great site..same great news!! We keep it poppin for you..our readers!! Click here for the mobile site!

Chris Brown Supports Lebron James

Chris Brown is keeping busy and isn't going to be letting that community service get in the way of him taking breaks and having fun! Chris Brown was seen on the red carpet of Lebron James' celebrity basketball game over at the Hollywood & Highland Courtyard in LA. Nike was hosting the event and attendees included Chris Brown, Chris Rock and others to support the Lebron documentary "More Than A Game". Since there were soo many Chris' in the house, I'm wondering if Chris Tucker was there? LMAO! And I'm also going to take a stab and say Chris Brown is taking that court order seriously since Rihanna was spotted in Venice, Italy attending her managers wedding (Marc Jordan) below:







Rihanna is such a pretty girl! She's always killing the fashion scene!

La La Gets Fresh @ $2 Car Wash

Dang La La! All that hosing down your tittays may cause some serious traffic! I rep for La La because she's one of the few women that carries herself like a lady! I realize you can't tell from the picture above but I think she was just having fun with the paparazzi since she was out washing her car and there they were across the damn street snapping pictures! I'm guessing she was giving them something for the cameras and something for us bloggers to talk about! :) Check out more photos of La La having fun at the $2 car wash below:









I'm happy to see that La La doesn't think she's too good to be washing her own car! Times are hard! It's a recession yall!

Ebony Magazine Goes Up For Sale

Rumor has it that "Ebony" magazine is quietly being put up for sale. What the hell is going on with these magazines? Is no one buying print publications anymore? Am I the only one still putting in orders for "Essence" magazine to be delivered to my home? Yes...I said "Essence" and not "Ebony" because I feel "Essence" gives me the most needed information. Just my opinion. Hope everything works out for "Ebony".

Nicki Minaj Is A 5 Star Chick!!

Everyone knows I'm a stan for Nicki Minaj! I'm loving the girls whole style and she represents Queens, so it's a must I support! I'm glad Yo Gotti decided to have Nicki Minaj jump on the track and drop a verse for his hit single "5 Star Chick"! He couldn't have made a better choice! Check out Nicki Minaj doing her thing for the video screen, Harajuku Barbie style, for her verse on "5 Star Chick" below:



I need an interview with Nicki Minaj asap!!!

Young Money On The Cover Of The Source

Tell me why I thought there wasn't a "Source" magazine anymore? I thought they folded? I could be wrong though. Anywho, check out the new cover of "The Source" magazine featuring members of the "Young Money" crew. Now, correct me if I'm wrong but isn't Bow Wow part of the group? Where's he at? I'm soo confused when it comes to who belongs to which crew. Maybe you guys can shed some light on what's going on here. Help a sista out!

Karencivil.com: Mashonda Addresses Alicia Keys aka AK

I saw this on Karencivil.com and I had to put this out there for you guys..serious article about the AK~Swizz Beats Affair. Here's what Mashonda had to say:
After having a great evening with my son and enjoying some fun twit chat, I decided to sign off and get some work done. However, a few hours later I was advised that I should check @aliciakeys twit page. I’ve never reached out to her on twitter before. I feel our issues are a lot more serious than a website conversation. Not to mention that I’ve reached out to her many times in the beginning of this whole thing, as any wife would do. Unfortunately, I never succeeded in getting a response. The 1st time I meet AK, my husband introduced us to each other at an event. ( I have no choice but to call him my husband, until he is not anymore) In the messages that I sent to her (AK), I made it very clear that on the contrary of what she might be hearing, I am still married to my husband, living with him and just had a child. Its been two years and I still have not received a response. What I do receive, is constant displays of selfishness and disconcern to me and my son.

I was a fan of AK’s last album, we were both signed to J Records and I always checked up on her projects. I sang her songs and admired her for creating Superwoman and Karma, I would never deny her, her talent. I believed in her until I found out she was possibly sleeping with my husband. The affair was denied by both, until it was finally admitted months later.

Already I can hear some of you saying ” why are u blaming her, You cant make someone leave their wife, You cant break something thats broken”. Well, my marriage was not broken, as far as I knew we were celebrating our sons birth and getting ready to celebrate our 5 year wedding anniversary . Call it blind love, whatever. I call it being a devoted wife.. As far as me blaming her and not blaming him, thats false. Me and my husband have worked out our differences. We are in a good place as people and as parents. I accept his choices and I am comfortable enough with myself to move on. I am so very blessed in many ways.
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