Now that "Eclipse" mania is officially under way, I feel obligated to write something about the newest installment of the "Twilight" series.
However, I'm not the biggest fan of the books and so far I've successfully avoided all three movies.
That said, the "Twilight" world has impacted dating.
Whenever a new installment comes out, you can always expect one hard-hitting piece that asks if "Twilight" is ruining marriages.
If you're looking for detailed plot analysis, check out Jezebel's minute-by-minute live blog or my colleague Katie's coverage.
For now, I'll just leave you with a simple question:
Is "Eclipse" a good date movie -- assuming you're older than 25?
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Need Wednesday plans?
If you haven't checked out Mix Ultra Lounge, the newest addition to the downtown Columbus party scene, this might be a good night to stop by.
Expect entertainment from DJ Roonie G, the club's owner. The biggest bonus? There's no cover charge. Action starts at 9 p.m.
The deal stands on Thursday, too.
Mix Ultra Lounge, 1107 Broadway, is a smoke-free nightclub that boasts VIP tables and DJ entertainment enhanced by visual effects.
For VIP reservations, call 706-221-2112.
Expect entertainment from DJ Roonie G, the club's owner. The biggest bonus? There's no cover charge. Action starts at 9 p.m.
The deal stands on Thursday, too.
Mix Ultra Lounge, 1107 Broadway, is a smoke-free nightclub that boasts VIP tables and DJ entertainment enhanced by visual effects.
For VIP reservations, call 706-221-2112.
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
Done with online dating
Have fee-based Internet dating services peaked?
That's the central question in this Washington Post piece, which suggests dating websites are past their prime. An excerpt:
The numbers suggest that while singles in search of a match may post a profile, they're not finding who they're looking for.
EHarmony and Match.com own 30 percent of the audience for all dating sites, and, taken together, their recent histories pose a troubling question for both their parent companies and those who prefer "scientific matching" techniques to real-life church socials: Has paid Internet dating peaked?
I've written articles about how the online dating world has lost much of its stigma.
But I've also covered the rise of more obscure Internet dating options, which makes me wonder if paid Internet matchmaking has yielded intrigue, but not real results.
The Washington Post piece also mentions Facebook as a possible competitor for paid Internet dating sites. It's set up differently, but I think it still has matchmaking potential.
Weigh in: Are you totally over fee-based dating websites?
That's the central question in this Washington Post piece, which suggests dating websites are past their prime. An excerpt:
The numbers suggest that while singles in search of a match may post a profile, they're not finding who they're looking for.
EHarmony and Match.com own 30 percent of the audience for all dating sites, and, taken together, their recent histories pose a troubling question for both their parent companies and those who prefer "scientific matching" techniques to real-life church socials: Has paid Internet dating peaked?
I've written articles about how the online dating world has lost much of its stigma.
But I've also covered the rise of more obscure Internet dating options, which makes me wonder if paid Internet matchmaking has yielded intrigue, but not real results.
The Washington Post piece also mentions Facebook as a possible competitor for paid Internet dating sites. It's set up differently, but I think it still has matchmaking potential.
Weigh in: Are you totally over fee-based dating websites?
I'll take the cubicle
Quick: Who makes you seize your stress ball more often, your significant other or your boss?
The Daily Mail cites a survey suggesting spouses cause more stress than our bosses. An excerpt:
There may be no place like home, but if you want to relax then you might be better off at work, according to the survey.
Hands down, I think the relationship world is much more stressful than professional life. Yes, there are always annoying bosses and co-workers, but your daily time with them is more limited than the time you spend with your significant other.
Thoughts?
The Daily Mail cites a survey suggesting spouses cause more stress than our bosses. An excerpt:
There may be no place like home, but if you want to relax then you might be better off at work, according to the survey.
The poll of 3,000 men and women also found that husbands are more likely to send their wives' blood pressure soaring than the other way round. Overall, 58 per cent of those surveyed said their spouse or partner was among those who put them under pressure.
Just 43 per cent said the same of their manager. And 18 per cent of women said their partner added a lot of stress to their life – compared with just 12 per cent of men.
Is the research surprising? Not really.Hands down, I think the relationship world is much more stressful than professional life. Yes, there are always annoying bosses and co-workers, but your daily time with them is more limited than the time you spend with your significant other.
Thoughts?
Monday, June 28, 2010
You missed the bus
I know why you haven't met the partner of your dreams in Columbus.
We don't have an extensive public transportation system.
TresSugar's take on public transportation crushes made me miss the days when I'd eye random strangers while riding California buses.
I lacked a car in high school, and my campus was about 45 minutes away from home (with traffic). So every day after school I'd ride one bus to my dad's office, then get on another bus that took me home.
The experience introduced me to all sorts of fun folks. I guess the phrase "eye random strangers" refers to both crushes and the people I feared would play tricks on me if I fell asleep.
Sure, public transportation is often filled with shady characters.
But there's always the remote chance you'll spot a stranger carrying your favorite obscure book or blasting your favorite B-side.
It's the one scenario when you never want your trip to end.
We don't have an extensive public transportation system.
TresSugar's take on public transportation crushes made me miss the days when I'd eye random strangers while riding California buses.
I lacked a car in high school, and my campus was about 45 minutes away from home (with traffic). So every day after school I'd ride one bus to my dad's office, then get on another bus that took me home.
The experience introduced me to all sorts of fun folks. I guess the phrase "eye random strangers" refers to both crushes and the people I feared would play tricks on me if I fell asleep.
Sure, public transportation is often filled with shady characters.
But there's always the remote chance you'll spot a stranger carrying your favorite obscure book or blasting your favorite B-side.
It's the one scenario when you never want your trip to end.
Video: Midget wrestling at Oxygen
My colleague Robin Trimarchi posted an excellent video recap of Thursday's midget wrestling event at Oxygen in downtown Columbus.
You'll see fighting, partying and a pretty sweet interview with some of the featured wrestlers. Oh yeah, I make a few appearances, too.
Click here to watch the video.
You'll see fighting, partying and a pretty sweet interview with some of the featured wrestlers. Oh yeah, I make a few appearances, too.
Click here to watch the video.
Friday, June 25, 2010
What's going on this weekend?
Hey everybody! Don't forget about HUNKS The Show, an all-male revue that comes to Flip Flops on Friday. It's 8-10:30 p.m. and cover is $5. The show is for women only.
Expect two outdoor concerts Saturday: RiverJam (1-6 p.m., downtown Columbus) and Badhorse (8 p.m., Phenix City Amphitheater).
Here's the rest of your lineup:
FRIDAY
VFW Post 665: The Last Rodeo Band, 9 p.m. $5. 706-687-6656.
The Loft: Peggy Jenkins and The Bizness, 9 p.m. $5. 706-596-8141.
Spicoli’s: DJ music, 8 p.m. free. 706-221-5252.
Mix Ultra Lounge: DJ Roonie G, 9 p.m. $10. 706-221-2112.
Fountain City Coffee: Ophir Drive, 8 p.m. free. 706-494-6659.
Shanty Shack: DJ music, 8 p.m. free. 706-507-3418.
SoHo Bar & Grill: Rusted Soul, Still Frame Tragedy, 10 p.m. $5. 706-568-3316.
Eighty-Five: I Was Totally Destroying It, 10 p.m. $5. 706-324-1500.
Belloo’s: Claiborne & Friends, 9 p.m. $5. 706-494-1584.
SATURDAY
VFW Post 665: The Last Rodeo Band, 9 p.m. $5. 706-687-6656.
Warm Springs Sports Pub: Wicked Dixie, 9:30 p.m. $5. Bar is at 7510 Roosevelt Hwy.
Shanty Shack: DJ music, 8 p.m. free. 706-507-3418.
Eighty-Five: Today the Moon, Tomorrow the Sun, 10 p.m. $5. 706-324-1500.
Spicoli’s: Mindblender, 9 p.m. $5. 706-221-5252.
Flip Flops: Whisky Bent, 9 p.m. $5.
SoHo Bar & Grill: Gurufish, 10 p.m. $5. 706-568-3316.
Daileys: Pandemic with Drop the Veil and Sarah from Ophir Drive, 9 p.m. $8 advance and $10 at the door. 706-320-3353.
The Loft: Connor Christian and Southern Gothic, 9:30 p.m. $5. 706-596-8141.
Belloo’s: Claiborne & Friends, 9 p.m. $5. 706-494-1584.
SUNDAY
Spicoli’s: Karaoke, 7 p.m. free. 706-221-5252.
Expect two outdoor concerts Saturday: RiverJam (1-6 p.m., downtown Columbus) and Badhorse (8 p.m., Phenix City Amphitheater).
Here's the rest of your lineup:
FRIDAY
VFW Post 665: The Last Rodeo Band, 9 p.m. $5. 706-687-6656.
The Loft: Peggy Jenkins and The Bizness, 9 p.m. $5. 706-596-8141.
Spicoli’s: DJ music, 8 p.m. free. 706-221-5252.
Mix Ultra Lounge: DJ Roonie G, 9 p.m. $10. 706-221-2112.
Fountain City Coffee: Ophir Drive, 8 p.m. free. 706-494-6659.
Shanty Shack: DJ music, 8 p.m. free. 706-507-3418.
SoHo Bar & Grill: Rusted Soul, Still Frame Tragedy, 10 p.m. $5. 706-568-3316.
Eighty-Five: I Was Totally Destroying It, 10 p.m. $5. 706-324-1500.
Belloo’s: Claiborne & Friends, 9 p.m. $5. 706-494-1584.
SATURDAY
VFW Post 665: The Last Rodeo Band, 9 p.m. $5. 706-687-6656.
Warm Springs Sports Pub: Wicked Dixie, 9:30 p.m. $5. Bar is at 7510 Roosevelt Hwy.
Shanty Shack: DJ music, 8 p.m. free. 706-507-3418.
Eighty-Five: Today the Moon, Tomorrow the Sun, 10 p.m. $5. 706-324-1500.
Spicoli’s: Mindblender, 9 p.m. $5. 706-221-5252.
Flip Flops: Whisky Bent, 9 p.m. $5.
SoHo Bar & Grill: Gurufish, 10 p.m. $5. 706-568-3316.
Daileys: Pandemic with Drop the Veil and Sarah from Ophir Drive, 9 p.m. $8 advance and $10 at the door. 706-320-3353.
The Loft: Connor Christian and Southern Gothic, 9:30 p.m. $5. 706-596-8141.
Belloo’s: Claiborne & Friends, 9 p.m. $5. 706-494-1584.
SUNDAY
Spicoli’s: Karaoke, 7 p.m. free. 706-221-5252.
Recap: Midget wrestling
It was one of the only times you could wear an "I Support Midget Violence" T-shirt in downtown Columbus without receiving critical stares.
Members of the Micro Wrestling Federation wore the shirts after their performance at Broadway hot spot Oxygen Thursday night.
Some partiers raved about midget wrestling days before it came to town, calling it an entertaining break from the usual downtown mix.
Others weren't as keen on the idea, describing it with terms like "exploitative" and "demeaning."
And me? I arrived at Oxygen with an open mind and a photographer/videographer on hand.
Guests saw about an hour of wrestling. Most wrestlers wore standard athletic-type shorts. One guy wore a unitard.
In addition to a traditional wrestling match, there was a no-holds-barred match.
The sole female wrestler defeated her male companions. Objects were thrown. A ringside announcer gave commentary throughout the matches.
Meanwhile, the full house of partiers held digital cameras and went wild.
The night didn't stop with the wrestling. Women sat on the ring's edges and got lap dances from a multi-talented midget wrestler. The crew interacted with the crowd after the show. They signed autographs and, um, body parts.
Does midget wrestling have critics? Sure.
But Thursday's event at Oxygen didn't reek of exploitation.
What's more, wrestlers didn't have pretentious attitudes or superstar demands. They had heart, humor and an urge to entertain.
At least that's what I learned from their T-shirts.
(Photo credit goes to the very talented Robin Trimarchi, who will post a midget wrestling video this weekend.)
Thursday, June 24, 2010
Teen Mom Season 2 trailer
I'm not too vocal about my extreme hatred of all things "Twilight," mainly because my chief argument is that "Twilight" is juvenile.
To counter that claim, people can argue that many of my favorite pop culture things are juvenile. For example, "Teen Mom."
But I'd argue that "Teen Mom" is a serious documentary that tackles issues more serious than what "Twilight" explores. Also, Tyler and Catelynn are way better than Bella and Edward.
Anyway...
MTV just posted the trailer for the second season of "Teen Mom." It's basically the best two minutes I've watched in my entire life. The show returns 10 p.m. July 20 on MTV.
What can we expect? Maci has a new man. Farrah is allegedly assaulted by her mom. Tyler and Catelynn appear to break off their engagement, at least briefly. (Please don't be true, please don't be true.)
But when the trailer ended, I was most excited about the Amber/Gary storyline. We'll find out if Amber's really pregnant again. It's also looks like the couple breaks up, but the end of the trailer Amber's trying on a wedding dress.
So confused, yet so excited.
What's going on tonight?
To navigate the Thursday party scene, you just need to know two words: midget wrestling.
The activity comes to Oxygen nightclub tonight, courtesy of the Micro Wrestling Federation. Doors open at 8 p.m., show starts at 9 p.m. Cover is $10 advance, $15 at the door. The bar's at 1040 Broadway. Call 706-596-8397. More details here.
Other nightlife highlights?
The Uptown Vault's Facebook page says the bar will reopen tonight at 1026 Broadway. "We will be a sports bar and will have live music starting in the next few weeks," the page says. I'll keep you updated.
Also tonight, Fountain City Coffee has open mike night beginning at 8 p.m. No cover. 706-494-6659.
Boneheadz performs at Spicoli’s at 9 p.m. No cover. 706-221-5252.
The Lawsuits perform at SoHo Bar & Grill at 10 p.m. No cover. 706-568-3316.
The activity comes to Oxygen nightclub tonight, courtesy of the Micro Wrestling Federation. Doors open at 8 p.m., show starts at 9 p.m. Cover is $10 advance, $15 at the door. The bar's at 1040 Broadway. Call 706-596-8397. More details here.
Other nightlife highlights?
The Uptown Vault's Facebook page says the bar will reopen tonight at 1026 Broadway. "We will be a sports bar and will have live music starting in the next few weeks," the page says. I'll keep you updated.
Also tonight, Fountain City Coffee has open mike night beginning at 8 p.m. No cover. 706-494-6659.
Boneheadz performs at Spicoli’s at 9 p.m. No cover. 706-221-5252.
The Lawsuits perform at SoHo Bar & Grill at 10 p.m. No cover. 706-568-3316.
I did it my way
TresSugar introduces us to a new online dating site, HerWay.com, where women are in control. It's like the Sadie Hawkins dance of the Internet world.
Here's how it works: Women and men can submit profiles, but only women can anonymously browse for dates. When a woman chooses a guy, he gets to see her profile.
Pretty cool, right?
Some women are still terrified to take the lead in the courtship process.
I no longer have major qualms about asking a guy out. That's mainly due to my four years at an all-girls high school, where every formal dance turned into essentially a Sadie Hawkins dance.
I remember the many nights I spent wondering if it would be OK to resurrect a sixth-grade friend as my junior prom date. Shudder.
OK, I guess I haven't fully embraced the Sadie Hawkins concept after all.
Here's how it works: Women and men can submit profiles, but only women can anonymously browse for dates. When a woman chooses a guy, he gets to see her profile.
Pretty cool, right?
Some women are still terrified to take the lead in the courtship process.
I no longer have major qualms about asking a guy out. That's mainly due to my four years at an all-girls high school, where every formal dance turned into essentially a Sadie Hawkins dance.
I remember the many nights I spent wondering if it would be OK to resurrect a sixth-grade friend as my junior prom date. Shudder.
OK, I guess I haven't fully embraced the Sadie Hawkins concept after all.
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
Rapper Rick Ross Sued for Stealing Drug Dealer's Name
by Dr. Boyce Watkins
I never bought into the hype that Rick Ross was a fraud. Everyone seemed to feel that because he was found to have been a corrections officer in a previous life, that he somehow violated the oath which says that rappers have to be criminals in order to sell records. I don't know how true or false the rumors happen to be, but the fact is that I never cared.
However, when I found out that there is reason to believe that the rapper Rick Ross took his name from the notorious drug dealer "Freeway" Ricky Ross, I thought to myself, "This is just stupid. Why can't the brother just be himself?"
Divorce ceremonies
The scenery is immaculate, the emotions are strong and you're joined by your closest family and friends.
All of whom are ready to watch you end the most serious relationship of your life.
Think it's a nightmare? Think again.
DoubleX describes the divorce ceremony's growing popularity in Japan. The setup is very similar to a wedding -- except, of course, for the fact that you're publicly ending a relationship instead of beginning one.
The post notes that divorce ceremonies are similar to the "divorce parties" that have made headlines in the US. I've previously written about cakes and showers to commemorate divorces.
I'm always a fan of finding silver lining in heartache.
However, if divorce celebrations really are on the rise, I think they risk trivializing emotions that really shouldn't be reduced to the public destruction of wedding rings.
Thoughts?
All of whom are ready to watch you end the most serious relationship of your life.
Think it's a nightmare? Think again.
DoubleX describes the divorce ceremony's growing popularity in Japan. The setup is very similar to a wedding -- except, of course, for the fact that you're publicly ending a relationship instead of beginning one.
The post notes that divorce ceremonies are similar to the "divorce parties" that have made headlines in the US. I've previously written about cakes and showers to commemorate divorces.
I'm always a fan of finding silver lining in heartache.
However, if divorce celebrations really are on the rise, I think they risk trivializing emotions that really shouldn't be reduced to the public destruction of wedding rings.
Thoughts?
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
Son of Dallas Police Chief Allegedly Kills a Cop
Suge Knight, Kanye West: Lawsuit, Guns and Money
- It appears that Kanye West and the infamous Marion "Suge" Knight are getting together to work out ... Read More
- By Boyce Watkins, PhD on Jun 22nd 2010 6:36PM | Comments (0)
How Love and Money Mix and How You Can Do it the Right Way
- I did the interview below on CNN Radio this week about love and money. Most of us know the feeling ... Read More
- By Boyce Watkins, PhD on Jun 22nd 2010 4:45PM | Comments (1)
Black Single Mothers and Dating: What's It Really Like?
- In this episode of 'Dr Boyce Watkins on AOL Black Voices,' we discuss black single mothers ... Read More
- By Boyce Watkins, PhD on Jun 22nd 2010 3:54PM | Comments (0)
Should Facebook Be Held Accountable for Murders by Members?
- A man was sent to prison after he did the unthinkable: He pretended to be a teenager, lured a young ... Read More
- By Boyce Watkins, PhD on Jun 22nd 2010 3:42PM | Comments (1)
Rev. Al Sharpton and Dr. Boyce Discuss the Plight of the Black Male
- Every week, I speak with Rev. Al Sharpton on various issues that affect the African American ... Read More
- By Boyce Watkins, PhD on Jun 22nd 2010 9:45AM | Comments (6)
Obama's Fatherhood.gov Commercial: Too Feminine for Black Men?
- On Father's Day, I wrote about the immense thrill of being a dad. This is one of the reasons I ... Read More
- By Boyce Watkins, PhD on Jun 22nd 2010 9:30AM | Comments (8)
BP Chooses a Black Man to Head its Claims Process
- "BP is paying all the bills right now," Darryl Willis, the vice president of resources for BP ... Read More
- By Boyce Watkins, PhD on Jun 22nd 2010 7:50AM | Comments (1)
Son of Dallas Police Chief Suspected in Killing a Cop
- Investigators are saying that the 27-year-old son of Dallas Police Chief David Brown shot and ... Read More
- By Boyce Watkins, PhD on Jun 21st 2010 8:38PM | Comments (2)
Public apologies
As teenagers, many of us dream about receiving an impromptu public serenade from a lover begging for forgiveness.
But when you finally find yourself in that moment, you can only think of bashing your cheating ex's forehead with his guitar.
Ah, the public apology.
Lemondrop tells us about a guy who lined his estranged wife's bike route with banners and messages asking her to take him back. Too bad it apparently didn't work.
The post doesn't specify the offense prompting the apology.
For minor fights -- when it's pretty much guaranteed your significant other will take you back -- go ahead, make some grand public gesture.
But it in more complex scenarios, it's just awkward.
In many cases, people try to gloss over what caused a fight by offering an over-the-top apology.
Bystanders might love you. But the girl you wronged? Maybe not so much.
But when you finally find yourself in that moment, you can only think of bashing your cheating ex's forehead with his guitar.
Ah, the public apology.
Lemondrop tells us about a guy who lined his estranged wife's bike route with banners and messages asking her to take him back. Too bad it apparently didn't work.
The post doesn't specify the offense prompting the apology.
For minor fights -- when it's pretty much guaranteed your significant other will take you back -- go ahead, make some grand public gesture.
But it in more complex scenarios, it's just awkward.
In many cases, people try to gloss over what caused a fight by offering an over-the-top apology.
Bystanders might love you. But the girl you wronged? Maybe not so much.
Date now, marry later
When I tell people I've been dating my boyfriend for nearly four years, I usually get one of two reactions.
Option 1: An exaggerated glance at my ring finger, followed by an adamant, "You better make him put a ring on it, girl!"
Option 2: A look of pity, accompanied by a melancholy, "Don't worry. I'm sure it'll happen some day."
Jealous?
USA Today has a slightly overdone trend piece about a growing tendency to date for a long time before getting engaged.
It attributes the decision to everything from financial concerns to a fear of divorce.
Extended courtships might be more common, but they're hardly the norm. Most of my female friends still have a three-year cutoff point for the pre-engagement phase of a relationship.
It's great to really know somebody before getting married, but relationships also get to a certain point where you just have to blindly jump in and decide if a future together will work.
Also, I think many women agree to an extended courtship simply because engagements are still an area in our dating culture where women are essentially powerless.
So please, indulge my naked ring finger with your best "Single Ladies" line.
I'm sure I've never heard it before.
Option 1: An exaggerated glance at my ring finger, followed by an adamant, "You better make him put a ring on it, girl!"
Option 2: A look of pity, accompanied by a melancholy, "Don't worry. I'm sure it'll happen some day."
Jealous?
USA Today has a slightly overdone trend piece about a growing tendency to date for a long time before getting engaged.
It attributes the decision to everything from financial concerns to a fear of divorce.
Extended courtships might be more common, but they're hardly the norm. Most of my female friends still have a three-year cutoff point for the pre-engagement phase of a relationship.
It's great to really know somebody before getting married, but relationships also get to a certain point where you just have to blindly jump in and decide if a future together will work.
Also, I think many women agree to an extended courtship simply because engagements are still an area in our dating culture where women are essentially powerless.
So please, indulge my naked ring finger with your best "Single Ladies" line.
I'm sure I've never heard it before.
Monday, June 21, 2010
Rapper Fat Joe Detained for Alleged Sexual Assault
by Dr. Boyce Watkins, AOL Black Voices
The rapper Fat Joe was detained by police Sunday night after he and his entourage were accused of sexually assaulting a woman in Madison, Wisconsin. According to TMZ, the woman is 33-years old and claims the assault occurred in a Cadillac Limousine after a concert at the Orpheum Theater.
Fat Joe (a.k.a.Joseph Antonio Cartagena) and his entourage were held for questioning, but he was released and not arrested. The details of the case are still being sorted out in the investigation. Relative to most artists, Fat Joe doesn't get into very much trouble. The 39-year old married father of two has not, to my knowledge been accused of any sexual assault, so I'd be surprised if he waited this long to get started. He has been arrested in some of the typical rapper non-sense in the past: In 1998, he and the deceased rapper Big Pun were arrested for assaulting a man with a baseball bat and stealing his gold chain. I'm not even going to try to explain that one.
Vanessa Carlton is bisexual
I couldn't go another year without getting "A Thousand Miles" stuck in my head.
The melodic brain invasion came courtesy of singer Vanessa Carlton's recent declaration that she's bisexual. She revealed the news at a Nashville Pride event, MTV reports.
When I was a kid, the word "bisexual" was something that made people turn their heads and whisper. Now, somebody announces bisexuality and often gets nothing more than a shoulder shrug.
Does that suggest heightened acceptance of bisexuality? Maybe. But it also reflects a growing tendency to dismiss the announcement as merely a publicity scam or turn-on tactic.
Consider stereotypes of the girl in college who conveniently decides to "out" herself as bisexual while wearing a sheer T-shirt in a room of guys.
Then, there's actress Anna Paquin's recent announcement of bisexuality, a move many skeptics labeled nothing more than a promotion for the new season of "True Blood." (It was a little strange, seeing as Paquin is engaged.)
Many online commenters have already suggested Carlton's news is just an effort to stay in fame's spotlight. Read more discussion here.
Carlton's announcement has no bearing on my view of her as an entertainer. Honestly, I'm just mad I have that song in my head.
But I do think it's a little callous to label her move selfish.
I agree with Carlton's advocates: She's a public figure and her public announcement -- regardless of its motives -- could have given someone the confidence to make a declaration they've been avoiding.
The melodic brain invasion came courtesy of singer Vanessa Carlton's recent declaration that she's bisexual. She revealed the news at a Nashville Pride event, MTV reports.
When I was a kid, the word "bisexual" was something that made people turn their heads and whisper. Now, somebody announces bisexuality and often gets nothing more than a shoulder shrug.
Does that suggest heightened acceptance of bisexuality? Maybe. But it also reflects a growing tendency to dismiss the announcement as merely a publicity scam or turn-on tactic.
Consider stereotypes of the girl in college who conveniently decides to "out" herself as bisexual while wearing a sheer T-shirt in a room of guys.
Then, there's actress Anna Paquin's recent announcement of bisexuality, a move many skeptics labeled nothing more than a promotion for the new season of "True Blood." (It was a little strange, seeing as Paquin is engaged.)
Many online commenters have already suggested Carlton's news is just an effort to stay in fame's spotlight. Read more discussion here.
Carlton's announcement has no bearing on my view of her as an entertainer. Honestly, I'm just mad I have that song in my head.
But I do think it's a little callous to label her move selfish.
I agree with Carlton's advocates: She's a public figure and her public announcement -- regardless of its motives -- could have given someone the confidence to make a declaration they've been avoiding.
Family matters
Happy Monday! Hope everybody had a great weekend and a fantastic Father's Day.
I spent lots of the weekend with my younger sister, who is at Fort Benning attending Airborne School. Thanks to my lack of direction, I had the privilege of experiencing three Fort Benning access points in one day.
Navigation issues aside, it was nice to see someone from home.
Hanging out with my California family generates feelings that are a little more complex than when they'd visit me in college.
Now, their departure makes me realize I'm riding without training wheels in a city whose streets still confuse me -- even after four years here.
Seeing my family reminds me of the fail-safe comfort of having somebody who, like my dad, will spend 12 hours building a chest of drawers just so your bedroom looks like home.
Or somebody who, like my sister, will smile encouragingly when I describe a life direction that's clearly outside the realm of possibility.
When I moved to Columbus, those moments went from constants to twice-a-year occasions at best.
In my family's absence, I've combated pest infestations and financial challenges under the guidance of will power and DIY manuals.
Maybe that blind confidence is my family's greatest gift of all.
I spent lots of the weekend with my younger sister, who is at Fort Benning attending Airborne School. Thanks to my lack of direction, I had the privilege of experiencing three Fort Benning access points in one day.
Navigation issues aside, it was nice to see someone from home.
Hanging out with my California family generates feelings that are a little more complex than when they'd visit me in college.
Now, their departure makes me realize I'm riding without training wheels in a city whose streets still confuse me -- even after four years here.
Seeing my family reminds me of the fail-safe comfort of having somebody who, like my dad, will spend 12 hours building a chest of drawers just so your bedroom looks like home.
Or somebody who, like my sister, will smile encouragingly when I describe a life direction that's clearly outside the realm of possibility.
When I moved to Columbus, those moments went from constants to twice-a-year occasions at best.
In my family's absence, I've combated pest infestations and financial challenges under the guidance of will power and DIY manuals.
Maybe that blind confidence is my family's greatest gift of all.
Saturday, June 19, 2010
Dr. Boyce Watkins argues for NCAA Reform
Dr. Boyce Watkins - The Institute of Black Public Policy
I wrote about a new book regarding the NCAA’s alleged exploitation of black athletes, written by University of Georgia Professor Billy Hawkins. In his recently-released book, “The New Plantation,” Hawkins goes out of his way to help us understand that the method by which the NCAA does business is not much different from the mindset of plantation owners of the old south.
The analogies used by Professor Hawkins are thought-provoking and appear to be alarmist at first glance. After all, citizens are commonly comparing nearly every modern-day injustice to slavery in order to make a dramatic point. But in this case, the analogies are appropriate, in large part because slavery is not a dichotomy. Instead, it is actually a continuum, with complete freedom on one end and total servitude on the other. One could even argue that slaves themselves were not completely devoid of freedom, since they could have always chosen to run away, buy their freedom, maim themselves or even commit suicide as a way to escape their condition. The point of this very grim example is not to say that slavery was not entirely horrific; rather, it is to say that something does not have to be entirely horrific to be compared to slavery.
Friday, June 18, 2010
What's going on this weekend?
Hey party people! I plan to participate in Friday's Miss Georgia Scholarship Pageant 5K Run and Walk, which starts at 11:30 p.m. in front of the RiverCenter. Registration is $25.
Also, if you're looking for some 2010 World Cup action on Saturday, head to Scruffy Murphy's, 1037 Broadway. The bar will air the Cameroon/Denmark match at 2:30 p.m.
Here are some other highlights:
FRIDAY
VFW Post 665: The Last Rodeo Band, 9 p.m. $5. 706-687-6656.
Eighty-Five: Parachute Musical, Ryan Rulon, 10 p.m. $5. 706-324-1500.
Flip Flops: Jasper Drive, 9 p.m. $5.
The Loft: Peggy Jenkins and The Bizness, 9 p.m. $5. 706-596-8141.
Spicoli’s: DJ music, 8 p.m. free. 706-221-5252.
Daileys: Tap Shot, 10 p.m. $5. 706-320-3353.
SoHo Bar & Grill: Two Finger Jester, 10 p.m. $5. 706-568-3316.
Belloo’s: Claiborne & Friends, 9 p.m. $5. 706-494-1584.
SATURDAY
VFW Post 665: The Last Rodeo Band, 9 p.m. $5. 706-687-6656.
Eighty-Five: El Cantador, 10 p.m. $5. 706-324-1500.
H20: Classic Addict, 10 p.m. $5. 706-327-9700.
Spicoli’s: The Relics, 9 p.m. $5. 706-221-5252.
Daileys: Tap Shot, 10 p.m. $5. 706-320-3353.
Flip Flops: Chris Collins, 9 p.m. $5.
Ossahatchee Oyster Bar: Wicked Dixie, 7:30 p.m. free. 706-582-2629.
SoHo Bar & Grill: The Killing Ground, Kadense, 10 p.m. $5. 706-568-3316.
The Loft: Little Brown Peach, 9 p.m. $5. 706-596-8141.
Belloo’s: Claiborne & Friends, 9 p.m. $5. 706-494-1584.
SUNDAY
Spicoli’s: Karaoke, 7 p.m. free. 706-221-5252.
Also, if you're looking for some 2010 World Cup action on Saturday, head to Scruffy Murphy's, 1037 Broadway. The bar will air the Cameroon/Denmark match at 2:30 p.m.
Here are some other highlights:
FRIDAY
VFW Post 665: The Last Rodeo Band, 9 p.m. $5. 706-687-6656.
Eighty-Five: Parachute Musical, Ryan Rulon, 10 p.m. $5. 706-324-1500.
Flip Flops: Jasper Drive, 9 p.m. $5.
The Loft: Peggy Jenkins and The Bizness, 9 p.m. $5. 706-596-8141.
Spicoli’s: DJ music, 8 p.m. free. 706-221-5252.
Daileys: Tap Shot, 10 p.m. $5. 706-320-3353.
SoHo Bar & Grill: Two Finger Jester, 10 p.m. $5. 706-568-3316.
Belloo’s: Claiborne & Friends, 9 p.m. $5. 706-494-1584.
SATURDAY
VFW Post 665: The Last Rodeo Band, 9 p.m. $5. 706-687-6656.
Eighty-Five: El Cantador, 10 p.m. $5. 706-324-1500.
H20: Classic Addict, 10 p.m. $5. 706-327-9700.
Spicoli’s: The Relics, 9 p.m. $5. 706-221-5252.
Daileys: Tap Shot, 10 p.m. $5. 706-320-3353.
Flip Flops: Chris Collins, 9 p.m. $5.
Ossahatchee Oyster Bar: Wicked Dixie, 7:30 p.m. free. 706-582-2629.
SoHo Bar & Grill: The Killing Ground, Kadense, 10 p.m. $5. 706-568-3316.
The Loft: Little Brown Peach, 9 p.m. $5. 706-596-8141.
Belloo’s: Claiborne & Friends, 9 p.m. $5. 706-494-1584.
SUNDAY
Spicoli’s: Karaoke, 7 p.m. free. 706-221-5252.
Thursday, June 17, 2010
Love don't cost a thing
But shoes? That's an entirely different matter.
Glamour offers some interesting tidbits from the American Express Spending & Saving Tracker, a survey that reveals public opinions about finances.
Among the interesting relationship-related items: $249 is the average threshold at which young professional couples need to consult their partner before making a purchase.
Accurate? Too high? Too low?
The post doesn't specify whether the $249 figure applies to couples who are married, dating or both. Naturally, it would apply to married people, since that's when you're more likely to share finances.
But some daters expect a level of financial consultation, too.
Your significant other's $250 electronics purchase often means you won't be treated to dinner soon and vacations might briefly be put on hiatus.
So weigh in: If you and your partner don't share a checking account -- and you're not married -- do you still have an obligation to consult each other before making big purchases?
Glamour offers some interesting tidbits from the American Express Spending & Saving Tracker, a survey that reveals public opinions about finances.
Among the interesting relationship-related items: $249 is the average threshold at which young professional couples need to consult their partner before making a purchase.
Accurate? Too high? Too low?
The post doesn't specify whether the $249 figure applies to couples who are married, dating or both. Naturally, it would apply to married people, since that's when you're more likely to share finances.
But some daters expect a level of financial consultation, too.
Your significant other's $250 electronics purchase often means you won't be treated to dinner soon and vacations might briefly be put on hiatus.
So weigh in: If you and your partner don't share a checking account -- and you're not married -- do you still have an obligation to consult each other before making big purchases?
World Cup 2010 at Scruffy Murphy's
Happy Thursday! Here's an update on when you can watch World Cup 2010 action at Scruffy Murphy's, 1037 Broadway:
Today: Bar airs France vs. Mexico at 2:30 p.m.
Friday, June 18: Doors open at 9:30 a.m. to show Slovenia vs. USA. They'll raffle off a Yuengling official USA team jersey.
Saturday, June 19: Cameroon vs. Denmark at 2:30 p.m.
Monday, June 21: Spain vs. Honduras at 2:30 p.m.
Tuesday, June 22: Nigeria vs. Korea Republic at 2:30 p.m., Greece vs. Argentina at 2:30 p.m. Bar will show both matches.
Wednesday, June 23: Bar opens at 9:30 a.m. for USA vs. Algeria. They'll raffle off a Yuengling official USA team jersey.
Today: Bar airs France vs. Mexico at 2:30 p.m.
Friday, June 18: Doors open at 9:30 a.m. to show Slovenia vs. USA. They'll raffle off a Yuengling official USA team jersey.
Saturday, June 19: Cameroon vs. Denmark at 2:30 p.m.
Monday, June 21: Spain vs. Honduras at 2:30 p.m.
Tuesday, June 22: Nigeria vs. Korea Republic at 2:30 p.m., Greece vs. Argentina at 2:30 p.m. Bar will show both matches.
Wednesday, June 23: Bar opens at 9:30 a.m. for USA vs. Algeria. They'll raffle off a Yuengling official USA team jersey.
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Weddings are a beach
Here's an interesting article about how the recent BP oil spill has affected beach weddings.
Short summary: On the affected beaches, sandy ceremonies have lost some of their appeal.
Let's discuss beach weddings.
The concept looks intriguing on shows like "Real Housewives," but the practical execution is slightly different.
The real deal often involves gnarly bare toes, too-informal dresses and a mid-ceremony encounter with a hermit crab.
Not to mention the fact that you're dealing with uncertainty of natural elements, which is always risky. Let's just say Mother Nature isn't always the best party animal.
Where do you stand on beach weddings?
(Calling all June brides: Check out Katie's wedding-planning blog.)
Short summary: On the affected beaches, sandy ceremonies have lost some of their appeal.
Let's discuss beach weddings.
The concept looks intriguing on shows like "Real Housewives," but the practical execution is slightly different.
The real deal often involves gnarly bare toes, too-informal dresses and a mid-ceremony encounter with a hermit crab.
Not to mention the fact that you're dealing with uncertainty of natural elements, which is always risky. Let's just say Mother Nature isn't always the best party animal.
Where do you stand on beach weddings?
(Calling all June brides: Check out Katie's wedding-planning blog.)
Ladies' night: Right or wrong?
Tonight kicks off Wednesday ladies nights at Mix Ultra Lounge, 1107 Broadway. Women get in free and DJ Roonie G performs.
Doors open at 9 p.m. The sexiest women will win cash, according to the event's Facebook page.
Not a woman? You'll pay a $5 cover.
Mix isn't the only local bar that hosts ladies-only promotions. Belloo's, for example, has its little black dress promotion every Friday and Saturday night. Wear a black dress and you'll get gift certificates for the bar.
Single guys don't usually wage equality disputes over the female-specific deals. If anything, the offers increase their chances of meeting single women.
Coupled men? Sometimes their feelings are a little more complex.
After all, it's not easy to stomach the idea of paying a $5 cover when you're bringing a woman to the bar -- and not hitting on any of the other eligible partiers.
Weigh in: Do you have an issue with ladies nights?
Doors open at 9 p.m. The sexiest women will win cash, according to the event's Facebook page.
Not a woman? You'll pay a $5 cover.
Mix isn't the only local bar that hosts ladies-only promotions. Belloo's, for example, has its little black dress promotion every Friday and Saturday night. Wear a black dress and you'll get gift certificates for the bar.
Single guys don't usually wage equality disputes over the female-specific deals. If anything, the offers increase their chances of meeting single women.
Coupled men? Sometimes their feelings are a little more complex.
After all, it's not easy to stomach the idea of paying a $5 cover when you're bringing a woman to the bar -- and not hitting on any of the other eligible partiers.
Weigh in: Do you have an issue with ladies nights?
Back hair beware
A lack of oil spill evidence wasn't the only surprise during my recent beach vacation. I was also astounded to see a lack of unsightly body hair among men.
It's not just a Panama City Beach phenomenon. Well, at least according to this NY Times article, which says back hair removal continues to grow in popularity. An excerpt:
As hairless torsos have become the norm for male models and actors, below-the-neck hair removal has gone mainstream. The nascent category of body shavers has surpassed $10 million in annual sales, according to Nielsen data cited by Remington.
But many men who aspire to the polished trunks of the “Jersey Shore” men face a dilemma when it comes to their backs: they don’t want to undergo the expense of waxing or laser hair removal, but are embarrassed to ask others for assistance.
Fortunately, there are tons of new grooming devices to help you do the job, the article adds.
I found the NY Times piece via Jezebel, where the article sparked a very interesting discussion among online commenters. I'd like your input on one comment:
In my opinion, if a guy expects you to remove your leg, pubic, facial hair then he should be open to doing the same for you.
True or false?
It's not just a Panama City Beach phenomenon. Well, at least according to this NY Times article, which says back hair removal continues to grow in popularity. An excerpt:
As hairless torsos have become the norm for male models and actors, below-the-neck hair removal has gone mainstream. The nascent category of body shavers has surpassed $10 million in annual sales, according to Nielsen data cited by Remington.
But many men who aspire to the polished trunks of the “Jersey Shore” men face a dilemma when it comes to their backs: they don’t want to undergo the expense of waxing or laser hair removal, but are embarrassed to ask others for assistance.
Fortunately, there are tons of new grooming devices to help you do the job, the article adds.
I found the NY Times piece via Jezebel, where the article sparked a very interesting discussion among online commenters. I'd like your input on one comment:
In my opinion, if a guy expects you to remove your leg, pubic, facial hair then he should be open to doing the same for you.
True or false?
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
Lady in red
I stumbled upon Lemondrop's discussion of red wedding dresses on the day my one of my friends posted a Facebook item wondering if she should buy a pink wedding gown.
My first instinct? Go for it.
Pink and red are my favorite colors, not to mention the fact that the hues offer more wear-again potential than a standard pristine white dress.
Just as I'm getting caught up in a pink wedding fantasy, reality sinks in. My family would die if I made the dream a reality. No joke, I can imagine my mom heaving at the thought alone.
White gowns might be rooted in nothing but a silly tradition, but I fear opting for something dramatically different could lead to serious regret years later.
In fourth grade, I sang in an outdoor televised choir event. It was a breezy day, but I refused to wear a sweater. You know, because I wanted to stand out.
Later, I watched my performance on the news and I looked like a giant doofus amid a sea of sweaters.
I feel like going the nontraditional gown route could result in that kind of regret.
Weigh in: Would you wear a pink or red wedding dress?
(Get more wedding tips on Katie's Crinoline and Lace blog.)
My first instinct? Go for it.
Pink and red are my favorite colors, not to mention the fact that the hues offer more wear-again potential than a standard pristine white dress.
Just as I'm getting caught up in a pink wedding fantasy, reality sinks in. My family would die if I made the dream a reality. No joke, I can imagine my mom heaving at the thought alone.
White gowns might be rooted in nothing but a silly tradition, but I fear opting for something dramatically different could lead to serious regret years later.
In fourth grade, I sang in an outdoor televised choir event. It was a breezy day, but I refused to wear a sweater. You know, because I wanted to stand out.
Later, I watched my performance on the news and I looked like a giant doofus amid a sea of sweaters.
I feel like going the nontraditional gown route could result in that kind of regret.
Weigh in: Would you wear a pink or red wedding dress?
(Get more wedding tips on Katie's Crinoline and Lace blog.)
Monday, June 14, 2010
Mix Ultra Lounge, part 2
I took a quick stroll down Broadway on Monday afternoon to chat with DJ Roonie G, the owner of Mix Ultra Lounge. The club opened Friday in downtown Columbus.
I stopped by briefly on opening night, but wanted to confirm some specific details.
Roonie said the nightclub, which occupies a spot formerly known as Savana's/Rumors/The Oasis, will hold its official grand opening in early July.
But it's open for business Wednesday-Saturday and doors open at 9 p.m. Roonie G, who hails from Columbus but regularly performs in places like Vegas, plans to perform every Wednesday. Ladies get in free Wednesday nights.
Otherwise, cover is $5 weeknights and $10 weekends. Drink prices are about $3-$4 for beer. Other drinks are generally between $5 and $10.
In an earlier post, I wrote about Friday night's strict dress code. Roonie insists it's not that strict. He says contrary to what I saw Friday, guys don't have to wear a collared shirt. Basically, you just have to look presentable. I still recommend going more formal than usual just in case.
Finally, the photo at the top of this post shows some of the VIP tables available at Mix. Table rental is $100 and includes seating for four (no cover charge necessary) and a bottle of champagne.
To reserve a table, call 706-221-2112.
Mix Ultra Lounge
Hey everybody! Blog posts were a bit sparse last week because -- get ready for a big reveal -- I was on vacation. My avid stalkers will remember I originally planned the week as a staycation.
However, early in the week I stumbled upon a great rental deal on a Panama City Beach condo. Apparently some people are leery of the whole oil spill situation.
We took the plunge, and I was thrilled to find absolutely no traces of oil on the beach.
The biggest casualty was the extremely pregnant woman who decided to wear only a bikini top and hippie skirt to a dine-in restaurant.
So that was my vacation. I got back in town Friday only to learn our booming metropolis had added a new nightclub in my absence.
Mix Ultra Lounge, 1107 Broadway, opened its doors Friday night. Remember, this club is owned by Roonie G -- a DJ who hails from Columbus, but regularly performs in places like Vegas.
I got the news just in time to check out Mix's grand opening. I learned one of the biggest things about the nightclub while at the door: a strictly enforced formal dress code.
So strictly enforced, in fact, that my date didn't make it past the entry line. The culprit? His lack of a collared shirt.
Long story short, Mix is the first truly upscale club I've seen in Columbus since I moved here four years ago. Cover on Friday was $10 and VIP tables surrounded the dance floor.
I made a short video of my experience, but the dark setup makes it appear a little "Blair Witch."
Can Columbus support an upscale nightclub? We'll see.
Sunday, June 13, 2010
Diddy's Son Gets a $350,000 Car - Is that too much?
Some think it's too much that Diddy's son got a $350,000 car for his 16th birthday - do you agree?
Slim Thug Attempts to Defend His Comments about Black Women
by Dr. Boyce Watkins, AOL Black Voices
Many of you may already know about the "interesting" comments made by the rapperSlim Thug, and his frustration about the lack of loyalty among black women. His comments were met with resistance by myself and Dr. Marc Lamont Hill from Columbia University, who gave him the stable advice to keep his mouth shut. I say that "Slim Thugga" needs to be quiet, not because he's wrong, but because this is a battle he can't win and still sell records. Getting every black woman in America to hate you is simply not good for business. Even Talib Kweli, a fellow hip hop artist, had something to say about Slim Thug's remarks.
On his twitter page, Slim Thug went out of his way to try to protect his image in the face of all the backlash:
Reggie Wayne, NFL Star - Mistress Takes Credit Cards
AOL Black Voices
NFL star Reggie Wayne is finding out the hard way that giving your credit card number out to anyone may not be such a good idea. Wayne, who is married, is suing his ummm, girlfriend Natasha McKenzie. In the affidavit, Wayne is alleging that McKenzie did it big on Wayne's credit card without asking his permission.
As the story goes, McKenzie, who is 26 years old, just needed Wayne's credit card for a "few little things," like paying her cell phone bill and buying a plane ticket. She was allegedly going to buy the ticket to come and visit Wayne to spend "quality time" with him. To Reggie's surprise, Natasha and her friends "got a little jiggy" with the credit card and charged up $95,000 worth of "necessities." Actually, there were 333 necessities on her list, which is the number of charges she allegedly made to the account.
Reggie originally took the charges to police in April. He has had the uncomfortable challenge of keeping this information from his wife. McKenzie claims that Wayne knew about the charges all along, and that she is only being scapegoated because either his wife found out about her or he has moved on to another mistress. Either way, this entire situation is a little bit strange. Wayne is not the only athlete to be taken for big money as the result of an affair. Tiger Woods allegedly paid millions to keep some of his mistresses quiet.
Saturday, June 12, 2010
Officer Taped Spraying Black Man in the Face
by Dr. Boyce Watkins, Syracuse University
I am not quite sure what to make of the ruffled YouTube video that is now scouring the web out of Paterson, New Jersey. In the video, the woman filming, who mentions that her mother works in the sheriff's office, is taping a New Jersey police officer holding a black man to the ground. The man clearly has his hands behind his back and appears to be restrained.
As the woman videos the incident from a distance, the officer inexplicably grabs the man, turns him around and puts pepper spray into his eyes. He appears to do it twice.
The Latest - 6/12/10
Gary Coleman's Wife Continues to Be More and More Suspicious
Saturday, June 12th, 2010
I was saddened to see that 1980s icon Gary Coleman died just a few days ago. What's even sadder is that...
Keep Reading »
Alvin Greene is the Political Candidate that Everyone Knows All About
Saturday, June 12th, 2010
I've seen the media dance around the obvious when it comes to the peculiar candidacy of Alvin Greene, the South...
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Rapper Nicki Minaj Gets Sued Over Payments on a Lamborghini
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Nicki Minaj Sued for Car Note
The rapper Nicki Minaj was sued this week over a pink Lamborghini that she rented for one of her videos. The company, Hollywood Exotic Car Rental, sued her for $12,000, alleging that the car was damaged and that the rental fee was not paid.
The car had been rented for $1,750 a day to shoot her "Massive Attack" music video, directed by Hype Williams.
The suit against Nicki Minaj was filed in LA Superior Court. The company alleges that the car was driven "off road" and that the damage amounted to $11,589.41. They also argue that Minaj didn't pay the three day rental fee on the car, which totaled $5,250.
Singer Brian McKnight Ruled to Pay $341,000 in Child Support
by Dr. Boyce Watkins
It appears that the singer Brian McKnight is now a not-so-proud father. Well, the child isn't exactly a baby either. According to TMZ, the child is a 14-year old that Brian hasn't exactly claimed to be his own. Well, whether McKnight chooses to address the child as his own or not, a Florida judge has ruled that Brian must now take financial responsibility for the child. The amount owed? $341,640, which comes out to just over $2,000 per month for every month since the child was born.
The mother of the child, Miriam Lee, took Brian McKnight to court to establish paternity last year. Why she waited so long to do so is not clear. From this point on, the singer is responsible for making child support payments in the amount of $11,388 per month. The ruling was a default judgment, since McKnight was not in court and didn't respond to the woman's claim of paternity.
The Latest from Dr Boyce Watkins on AOL - 6/12/10
NBA Gets High Marks for Diversity in Annual Report Card
- According to Professor Richard Lapchick, author of the recent Racial and Gender Report Card for ... Read More
- By Dr. Boyce Watkins, PhD on Jun 12th 2010 11:20AM | Comments (0)
Obama's "Angry Black Man" Criticism: Isn't He Also Half White?
- In light of all of the interesting analysis that others have done regarding why President Barack ... Read More
- By Dr. Boyce Watkins, PhD on Jun 9th 2010 9:36PM | Comments (34)
CNN Asks Why Black Men Are Not Graduating From College
- Richelle Carey at CNN Headline News recently reached out to me to find out why black men aren't ... Read More
- By Dr. Boyce Watkins, PhD on Jun 5th 2010 4:24PM | Comments (32)
Dwyane Wade Given Temporary Custody of His Sons
- NBA star Dwyane Wade's divorce just got a little uglier. This week, the court gave Wade custody ... Read More
- By Dr. Boyce Watkins, PhD on Jun 4th 2010 8:51AM | Comments (33)
Could LeBron James' Mother Rumors Push Him Out of Cleveland?
- The world seems to be buzzing incessantly about the statements made by former NBA great Calvin ... Read More
- By Dr. Boyce Watkins, PhD on May 24th 2010 10:41PM | Comments (4)
Slim Thug and his comments about black women continue to get the artist into trouble. Is he going to lose big money because of this?
News: NBA Gets a Good Diversity Report Card
To view the entire report card for the NBA on race and gender, Please click here
Highlights from the Report (released by the press representative for the Institute for Diversity and Ethics in Sport):
· In the NBA, 82 percent of the players were people of color, remaining constant from last year’s totals. This ties the highest percentage of players of color since the 1994-95 season. The percentage of African-American players also remained constant from last year’s report at 77 percent. The percentage of Latinos and Asians remained constant, at three and one percent respectively. The percentage of international players stayed steady as well at 18 percent.
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Friday, June 11, 2010
The Age of the Hoochie Mama is Over
The age of the Hoochie Mama is over
by Dr. Boyce Watkins | TheLoop21 in Culture & Society
It's time for hip hop, and its audience, to grow up.
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Teenage Boy Beaten by Police in Indianapolis
The Latest
Brandon Johnson: 15-Year Old Boy Beaten by Police in Indianapolis
- Indianapolis Police Chief Paul Ciesielski called for the firing of a white officer who's been ... Read More
- By Boyce Watkins, PhD on Jun 11th 2010 1:25AM | Comments (1)
OJ Simpson Fights to Get a New Trial in Nevada
- OJ Simpson's attorneys are planning to try to convince a group of Nevada judges to overturn his ... Read More
- By Boyce Watkins, PhD on Jun 10th 2010 11:58PM | Comments (0)
Oscar Grant Trial Has No Black Jurors
- On New Year's day of 2009, Oscar Grant was shot in Oakland, California. The shooter was a Bay ... Read More
- By Boyce Watkins, PhD on Jun 10th 2010 6:58PM | Comments (8)
How To Fight Like A Celebrity!
- From the Urban Daily: Have you ever noticed that celebrities always have beef, but never actually ... Read More
- By Lucette Jefferson on Jun 10th 2010 5:50PM | Comments (1)
Around the Web -- Jay-Z in Rolling Stone, Drake Was Rihanna's 'Pawn'? + More
- In his third Rolling Stone cover article, Jay-Z speaks on aging gracefully in a youth-oriented ... Read More
- By Journey Ade on Jun 10th 2010 5:45PM | Comments (2)
Talib Kweli vs. Slim Thug on the Black Women Issue
by Dr. Boyce Watkins, Syracuse University
A note to Slim Thug: You probably just need to be quiet for a while. It's not to say thatyour comments about black women were outside your rights to freedom of speech, but if you keep dissing the audience most likely to go out and buy your records, you are probably going to end up in the same poorhouse as MC Hammer. Don't get me wrong, black men love your music (at least I do), but the bottom line is that brothers don't buy albums, books, or anything else put up for sale. But when black women turn on you, it's a wrap son. Settle down and go back to the studio; it's good for your financial health.
I wrote yesterday about the comments made by Slim Thug regarding how he perceives white women to be a better dating choice than black women, as well asColumbia Professor Marc Lamont Hill'sresponse to Slim Thug's words. It seems that the debate has taken a life of it's own, now that rapper Talib Kweli has joined the conversation. In a recent essay he wrote for Vibe Magazine, Talib Kweli was ever the diplomatic artist, as he showed respect for Slim Thug, but also expressed his own concerns for his colleague's remarks about black women:
To read more about the debate regarding Slim Thug’s comments about black women, click here.
World Cup 2010 schedule, viewing parties
Here's one for all you soccer fans -- or, um, anyone who's just fascinated with cool jerseys.
The 2010 World Cup begins Friday and Scruffy Murphy's will host viewing parties throughout the event, beginning with Friday’s 2:30 p.m. Uruguay/France match.
The 2010 World Cup begins Friday and Scruffy Murphy's will host viewing parties throughout the event, beginning with Friday’s 2:30 p.m. Uruguay/France match.
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
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