February 22, 2009
February 20, 2009
February 18, 2009
February 13, 2009
Buffalo, NY Plane Crash Kills 49
At approximately 10:10 p.m., Continental Flight 3407 crashed in Clarence Center, a suburb near Buffalo. The plane had left Newark, new Jersey and was set to land in Buffalo. Instead, it hit a home as it went down and burst into searing, high-reaching flames on Thursday night. An information hotline has been set up for relatives of passengers on that flight. The toll-free number is 1-800-621-3263.
According to the FAA, 48 people were on board the jetliner. The 44 passengers and four crew members were killed along with one person on the ground.
According to the FAA, 48 people were on board the jetliner. The 44 passengers and four crew members were killed along with one person on the ground.
Yep. Those nails are real.
(AP Photo/The Deseret News, Tom Smart)
Well, they were real. Salt Lake City, Utah's Lee Redmond once boasted having the longest fingernails in the world and was listed in the Guinness Book of World Records. However, a car accident on Feb. 10, 2009, caused the nails to break. Before the accident, the nails measured nearly 30 inches. Luckily, her injuries were not life threatening.
February 4, 2009
January 31, 2009
Jet Li joins the Davos Debates
Martial arts superstar Jet Li discusses his beliefs about how and why we all need to work together to help each other and save our home (the Earth). Not only can he kick butt all day long, he's pretty damn smart.
January 30, 2009
Blagojevich deemed unworthy to be governor.
At the close of a four day trial, embattled Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich was ousted from office and barred from holding a public office again in Illinois. The Illinois Senate voted 59-0 to convict him of abuse of power. The former governor is now infamous for attempting to sell the senate seat vacated by President Barack Obama.
Republican Sen. Matt Murphy is quoted as saying,"He failed the test of character. He is beneath the dignity of the state of Illinois. He is no longer worthy to be our governor."
Federal prosecutors are expected to indict Blagojevich on corruption charges. Lt. Gov. Patrick Quinn, a Democrat and Blagojevich critic, was immediately sworn in as governor.
To read the entire article, click here: Yahoo! News
January 29, 2009
Testimony from someone who had 4 strokes & 2 heart attacks
Ms. Kimberly Butler gives astounding testimony about having had four strokes and two heart attacks and surviving them all even though the chief physician did not think that she would live. She drove herself to church that day in spite of being told that she would never see again. It is difficult and laborious for her to speak, so the testimony may seem a bit long to some. Be assured, it is worth every second. At the end, she sings two songs, Amazing Grace and Tis So Sweet To Trust In Jesus . What is truly amazing is how she is able to deliver these songs with such strength, power, and conviction. Kimberly blessed the congregation with her appearance at Original Holy Ark Church with Pastor Sammy Davis in Chicago. Ain't God good! There is nothing like being blessed by God. Keep singing, Kimberly.
Special thanks to J.J. for the link to the video.
January 21, 2009
President Barack H. Obama!
January 20, 2009, America embarked on a new phase of it's history with the first African American President. He embodies hope and embraces every race, nationality and ethnicity. The world rejoiced today.
View more photos by Mike Segar (Reuters) at Yahoo News.
View more photos by Mike Segar (Reuters) at Yahoo News.
January 20, 2009
They say everyone has a twin...
Indonesian photographer Ilham Anas now has a career as an Obama double. The 34-year-old does bear an amazing resemblance to U.S. President Barack Obama. See full article and additional photos at Yahoo! News.
January 17, 2009
Cubby dances to Beyonce Single Ladies
Cubby from 96.1 The Beat Charlotte does his own version of the SNL skit of Beyonce and Justin Timberlake.
January 16, 2009
Plane Crashes into Hudson River
Officials have not reported any fatalities or serious injuries in conjunction with the crash of a US Airways plane earlier this afternoon. Two engines on the plane were not functioning after striking a bird. The collision sent the plane into the Hudson River with 150 passengers on board.
US Airways flight 1549 had departed LaGuardia heading for Charlotte, N.C. when the accident occurred. The New York Fire Department and the Coast Guard launched rescue efforts with assistance from several ferries that surrounded the plane while waiting for passengers to board for taxi to the shore. The waters of the Hudson River are extremely frigid which heightened concern for the safety of the plane crash survivors.
Click here for more information.
Other links:
Yahoo News
Newday
A MUST READ!!!
Dr. Manis
When Are WE Going to Get Over It?
For much of the last forty years, ever since America "fixed" its race problem in the Civil Rights and Voting Rights Acts, we white people have been impatient with African Americans who continued to blame race for their difficulties. Often we have heard whites ask, "When are African Americans finally going to get over it?
Now I want to ask: "When are we White Americans going to get over our ridiculous obsession with skin color?
Recent reports that "Election Spurs Hundreds' of Race Threats, Crimes" should frighten and infuriate every one of us. Having grown up in "Bombingham," Alabama in the 1960s, I remember overhearing an avalanche of comments about what many white classmates and their parents wanted to do to John and Bobby Kennedy and Martin Luther King. Eventually, as you may recall, in all three cases, someone decided to do more than "talk the talk."
Since our recent presidential election, to our eternal shame we are once again hearing the same reprehensible talk I remember from my boyhood.
We white people have controlled political life in the disunited colonies and United States for some 400 years on this continent. Conservative whites have been in power 28 of the last 40 years. Even during the eight Clinton years, conservatives in Congress blocked most of his agenda and pulled him to the right. Yet never in that period did I read any headlines suggesting that anyone was calling for the assassinations of presidents Nixon, Ford, Reagan, or either of the Bushes. Criticize them, yes. Call for their impeachment, perhaps.
But there were no bounties on their heads. And even when someone did try to kill Ronald Reagan, the perpetrator was non-political mental case who wanted merely to impress Jody Foster.
But elect a liberal who happens to be Black and we're back in the sixties again. At this point in our history, we should be proud that we've proven what conservatives are always saying -that in America anything is possible, EVEN electing a black man as president. But instead we now hear that schoolchildren from Maine to California are talking about wanting to "assassinate Obama."
Fighting the urge to throw up, I can only ask, "How long?" How long before we white people realize we can't make our nation, much less the whole world, look like us? How long until we white people can -once and for all- get over this hell-conceived preoccupation with skin color? How long until we white people get over the demonic conviction that white skin makes us superior? How long before we white people get over our bitter resentments about being demoted to the status of equality with non-whites?
How long before we get over our expectations that we should be at the head of the line merely because of our white skin? How long until we white people end our silence and call out our peers when they share the latest racist jokes in the privacy of our white-only conversations?
I believe in free speech, but how long until we white people start making racist loudmouths as socially uncomfortable as we do flag burners? How long until we white people will stop insisting that blacks exercise personal responsibility, build strong families, educate themselves enough to edit the Harvard Law Review, and work hard enough to become President of the United States, only to threaten to assassinate them when they do?
How long before we starting "living out the true meaning" of our creeds, both civil and religious, that all men and women are created equal and that "red and yellow, black and white" all are precious in God's sight?
Until this past November 4, I didn't believe this country would ever elect an African American to the presidency. I still don't believe I'll live long enough to see us white people get over our racism problem. But here's my three-point plan:
First, everyday that Barack Obama lives in the White House that Black Slaves Built I'm going to pray that God (and the Secret Service) will protect him and his family from us white people.
Second, I'm going to report to the FBI any white person I overhear saying, in seriousness or in jest, anything of a threatening nature about President Obama.
Third, I'm going to pray to live long enough to see America surprise the world once again, when white people can "in spirit and in truth" sing of our damnable color prejudice, "We HAVE overcome."
Andrew Manis is author of Macon Black and White and serves on the steering committee of Macon's Center for Racial understanding.
It takes a Village to protect our President!!!
Special thanks to R. Martin for the email!!
Dr. Manis
When Are WE Going to Get Over It?
For much of the last forty years, ever since America "fixed" its race problem in the Civil Rights and Voting Rights Acts, we white people have been impatient with African Americans who continued to blame race for their difficulties. Often we have heard whites ask, "When are African Americans finally going to get over it?
Now I want to ask: "When are we White Americans going to get over our ridiculous obsession with skin color?
Recent reports that "Election Spurs Hundreds' of Race Threats, Crimes" should frighten and infuriate every one of us. Having grown up in "Bombingham," Alabama in the 1960s, I remember overhearing an avalanche of comments about what many white classmates and their parents wanted to do to John and Bobby Kennedy and Martin Luther King. Eventually, as you may recall, in all three cases, someone decided to do more than "talk the talk."
Since our recent presidential election, to our eternal shame we are once again hearing the same reprehensible talk I remember from my boyhood.
We white people have controlled political life in the disunited colonies and United States for some 400 years on this continent. Conservative whites have been in power 28 of the last 40 years. Even during the eight Clinton years, conservatives in Congress blocked most of his agenda and pulled him to the right. Yet never in that period did I read any headlines suggesting that anyone was calling for the assassinations of presidents Nixon, Ford, Reagan, or either of the Bushes. Criticize them, yes. Call for their impeachment, perhaps.
But there were no bounties on their heads. And even when someone did try to kill Ronald Reagan, the perpetrator was non-political mental case who wanted merely to impress Jody Foster.
But elect a liberal who happens to be Black and we're back in the sixties again. At this point in our history, we should be proud that we've proven what conservatives are always saying -that in America anything is possible, EVEN electing a black man as president. But instead we now hear that schoolchildren from Maine to California are talking about wanting to "assassinate Obama."
Fighting the urge to throw up, I can only ask, "How long?" How long before we white people realize we can't make our nation, much less the whole world, look like us? How long until we white people can -once and for all- get over this hell-conceived preoccupation with skin color? How long until we white people get over the demonic conviction that white skin makes us superior? How long before we white people get over our bitter resentments about being demoted to the status of equality with non-whites?
How long before we get over our expectations that we should be at the head of the line merely because of our white skin? How long until we white people end our silence and call out our peers when they share the latest racist jokes in the privacy of our white-only conversations?
I believe in free speech, but how long until we white people start making racist loudmouths as socially uncomfortable as we do flag burners? How long until we white people will stop insisting that blacks exercise personal responsibility, build strong families, educate themselves enough to edit the Harvard Law Review, and work hard enough to become President of the United States, only to threaten to assassinate them when they do?
How long before we starting "living out the true meaning" of our creeds, both civil and religious, that all men and women are created equal and that "red and yellow, black and white" all are precious in God's sight?
Until this past November 4, I didn't believe this country would ever elect an African American to the presidency. I still don't believe I'll live long enough to see us white people get over our racism problem. But here's my three-point plan:
First, everyday that Barack Obama lives in the White House that Black Slaves Built I'm going to pray that God (and the Secret Service) will protect him and his family from us white people.
Second, I'm going to report to the FBI any white person I overhear saying, in seriousness or in jest, anything of a threatening nature about President Obama.
Third, I'm going to pray to live long enough to see America surprise the world once again, when white people can "in spirit and in truth" sing of our damnable color prejudice, "We HAVE overcome."
Andrew Manis is author of Macon Black and White and serves on the steering committee of Macon's Center for Racial understanding.
It takes a Village to protect our President!!!
Special thanks to R. Martin for the email!!
January 11, 2009
December 27, 2008
Eartha Kitt: Finally Home
The one, the only, the incomparable Eartha KittWhatever that thing that superstars possess, she had it
She had a humble beginning amidst a South Carolina cotton field Abandoned by her parents, she set her mind on a better life and did not yield
Eartha had raging beauty… a style original, bold and keen
And a voice so singular and instantly recognized, it didn’t require
that she be seen
She was dubbed “the most exciting woman in the world” by Orson Welles
He realized she had the type of talent, allure and sex appeal that sells
Kitt landed a spot in the Katherine Dunham Dance Troupe and moved on to cabaret
She did records, movies, TV, the concert stage and, of course, Broadway
The classy siren performed with stars like Sidney Poitier and Nat “King”Cole,to name a few
Christmas favorite, Santa Baby, still enchants and entertains Kitt
fans old and new
“The Original Material Girl” was blacklisted for her honesty back in 1968
But she never backed down, toured the world, and made the best of her fate
In 1977, President Jimmy Carter welcomed Ms. Kitt back to her homeland
Her career was no longer spectacular; still, the performer lived a life
fulfilling and grand
Concerts Alone with Me and I’m Still Here: Confessions of a Sex Kitten sold out the Carnegie
She did the voice of Yzma in The Emperor’s New Groove and wrote Thursday’s Child, her autobiography
Eartha Kitt succumbed to colon cancer on Christmas day, 2008. She was 81
Farewell to an enormously talented and infinitely fascinating lady who
was still as beautiful as she was when her life begun
Sunida E. York © 2008 All Rights Reserved
December 25, 2008
December 20, 2008
DNA from skeletal remains match Caylee Anthony
The skeletal remains found in a wooded area just a mile or so from the Anthony home have been matched to the DNA profile of Caylee Anthony. Dr. Jan Garavaglia, of the television show, "Dr. G., Medical Examiner", confirmed that the test was conclusive. The child went missing in June. She was just two years old at the time. Her mother, Casey Anthony, never bothered to report her missing. Police were made aware of the Caylee's disappearance by her grandmother, who had not seen her for at least a month. The grandmother also reported to police that Casey's car smelled as if something dead was in the trunk.
Case Anthony was arrested in October and charged with first-degree murder in the case. Pictures of her partying after her daughter went missing seemed to capture the 22-year-old's lack of concern for her missing child.
Click here for a link to the full article: Yahoo! News
This one's for you, Caylee.
Caylee's Destiny
Big brown eyes adorn a beautiful little face
You didn't have much time in this life, this place
Destiny had other plans for you, fair one
The impact you had on others has just begun
To manifest. But what an impact it will be
Your death will cause things to be done differently
People will stop assuming that every parent is "good"
And that they love and care for their child as they should
More people will step up when they see a child in need
When reports are made to authorities, they will take heed
Because people are going to remember your story, your adorable face
And someone will act when a child goes missing from their normal space
Caylee, your unspeakable demise would not have been in vain
If it spares one innocent child from a moment of pain
Now you can be an angel, like the ones who spirited your soul away
Enjoy the love and tranquility you wake up to in heaven each day
Sunida E. York © 2008 All Rights Reserved
December 18, 2008
Tyler Perry victorious in recent lawsuit
The jury listened as the script for the play, Fantasy of a Black Woman by Donna West, was read. They watched as the movie, Diary of a Mad Black Woman by actor and screenwriter Tyler Perry, played. The jury even heard the testimony of L.D. Dabney, a Dallas area arts buff and associate of West, who stated that he thought Perry's movie was based on West's play when he viewed the film. Still, in the end, the jury sided the with once-struggling playwright turned uber-successful entertainment mogul.
Perry took to the stand in his own defense and endured charges that he took material from other movies like Martin Lawrence's Big Momma's House. Aubrey Pittman, West's attorney, contended that Perry incorporated ideas from The Color Purple, An Officer and a Gentleman and Mrs. Doubtfire into his mega-hit movie as well.
Making eye contact with the jury, Perry responded unequivocally, "I never stole anything from anybody--- never."
West was seeking all proceeds from the movie which took in $50.4 million at theaters across the country.
Perry took to the stand in his own defense and endured charges that he took material from other movies like Martin Lawrence's Big Momma's House. Aubrey Pittman, West's attorney, contended that Perry incorporated ideas from The Color Purple, An Officer and a Gentleman and Mrs. Doubtfire into his mega-hit movie as well.
Making eye contact with the jury, Perry responded unequivocally, "I never stole anything from anybody--- never."
West was seeking all proceeds from the movie which took in $50.4 million at theaters across the country.
December 12, 2008
Bobby Brown Tell All Book: "Whitney's No Punk"
Bobby Brown,formerly of New Edition, is opening up about his life, including his marriage to mega-talented singer and actress, Whitney Houston. "Bobby Brown: The Truth,the Whole Truth, and Nothing But the Truth" is written by Derek Handspike and published by Down South Books. Released on December 9, 2008, the unauthorized biography is said speak frankly about Brown's drug use, sex and drama. Brown reunited with former New Edition members Ralph Tresvant and Johnny Gill to form Heads of State. The trio began touring on September 27, 2008.
January issue of GQ has Jennifer Aniston Nude
With only a tie around her neck, actress Jennifer Aniston poses for the January, 2009issue of GQ magazine. In addition to showcasing her enviable physique, 39-year-old Aniston jokes about the ever present Brad Pitt-Angelina Jolie issue, which, judging from her jokes, is only an issue for the press. Hey, whatever sells magazines and keeps the fans entertained! Marley and Me Trailer
Veterans Affair Investigain in South Carolina
Veterans beware! A report by Military.com brings to light the investigation of a Columbia, S.C. employee of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) who discarded as many as 95 case files of veterans in a shredder bin. For several years now, the VA has struggled with a backlog of veterans attempting to be evaluated for disability compensation. The actions of this employee will undoubtedly cause further delay for some South Carolina veterans. The employee attempted to allow the files to be destroyed on October 3, 2008. About 46 of the records were submitted for new claims for benefits or contained supporting documentation.
Regardless of where you reside, if you are a veteran who is concerned about your claim or your records, you may contact the Department of Veterans Affairs via the national toll-free number, 1-800-827-1000. You will be connected to your regional office through this number.
Regardless of where you reside, if you are a veteran who is concerned about your claim or your records, you may contact the Department of Veterans Affairs via the national toll-free number, 1-800-827-1000. You will be connected to your regional office through this number.
WeeWeeChu
This email was so cute, I had to post it.
It's a romantic full moon, when Pedro said, "Hey, mamacita, let's do Weeweechu."
Oh no, not now, let's look at the moon!" said Rosita.
Oh, c'mon baby, let's you and I do Weeweechu. I love you and it's the perfect time," Pedro begged.
"But I wanna just hold your hand and watch the moon." replied Rosita.
Please, corazoncito, just once, do Weeweechu with me."
Rosita looked at Pedro and said, "OK, one time, we'll do Weeweechu."
Pedro grabbed his guitar and they both sang.....
"Weeweechu a Merry Christmas, Weeweechu a Merry Christmas, Weeweechu a Merry Christmas, and a Happy New Year."
MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!!!
Thanks to N. Trevino and K. Hutchinson for sharing this!
It's a romantic full moon, when Pedro said, "Hey, mamacita, let's do Weeweechu."
Oh no, not now, let's look at the moon!" said Rosita.
Oh, c'mon baby, let's you and I do Weeweechu. I love you and it's the perfect time," Pedro begged.
"But I wanna just hold your hand and watch the moon." replied Rosita.
Please, corazoncito, just once, do Weeweechu with me."
Rosita looked at Pedro and said, "OK, one time, we'll do Weeweechu."
Pedro grabbed his guitar and they both sang.....
"Weeweechu a Merry Christmas, Weeweechu a Merry Christmas, Weeweechu a Merry Christmas, and a Happy New Year."
MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!!!
Thanks to N. Trevino and K. Hutchinson for sharing this!
December 6, 2008
Tyler Perry Sued for Copyright Infringement
Tyler Perry is defending against charges of copyright infringement in U.S. District Court in Texas. Donna West is claiming that Perry stole material from a play that she wrote based on her own life. West is accusing the phenominally successful writer, actor and producer of basing much of his runnaway hit film, Diary of a Mad Black Woman on her play, "Fantasy of a Black Woman". She states that she can no longer put on the play, performed in July, 1991, in Dallas, because no one is interested in seeing the same storyline acted out again. Perry's film hit the theaters in 2005. The case is expected to come to a close by next Tuesday.
December 2, 2008
Send a Soldier a Holiday Greeting Card
The Red Cross, with help from Pitney Bowes, is conducting it's campaign to send a million greeting cards to American service members, veterans and their families stateside and worldwide. Until Dec 10, the public can send cards without inserts, including glitter or money, to the address listed below. Care packages should not be sent, either. Please use the proper amount of postage. For additional details and instructions or to download and print a free card, please visit the American Red Cross website.
Holiday Mail for Heroes
P.O. Box 5456
Capitol Heights, Md. 20791-5456
Cards will be screened and sorted prior to being delivered in time for Christmas.
Links:
American Red Cross
ABC News
Yahoo Shine
Walter Reed Army Medical Center
Holiday Mail for Heroes
P.O. Box 5456
Capitol Heights, Md. 20791-5456
Cards will be screened and sorted prior to being delivered in time for Christmas.
Links:
American Red Cross
ABC News
Yahoo Shine
Walter Reed Army Medical Center
A Website for Married Cheaters? Uh... yeah!
Tyra Banks is nothing if not interesting. She loves to bring something different to her show. How about this... a website dedicated to married people who want to cheat? That's right.
The Ashley Madison Agency's trademarked motto is: Life is short. Have an affair. It boasts having over 2,950,000 "like minded members" as the "World's premier discreet dating service."
And you can join for free! Oh, joy! But wait... there's also a 100% guarantee that you WILL have an affair. Well, all of the faithful, non-cheating spouses must love the hell out of that! They can just leave their tedious love-making duties to someone else. It's like having a sex maid. You probably won't know about it, though, with everything being so discreet and secretive.
Ashley Madison must be what every loyal spouse has always wanted... someone to help their presumably unhappy (or down right greedy and selfish) other half step out on them without them having a clue.
For the record, Tyra was appalled by this practice. According to the site, the agency has also been featured on Howard Stern, 20/20, Ellen, Dr. Phil, and Larry King. By the way, the owner is married and said he does not cheat. His wife said that she is not worried about him straying. In addition, the owner does not find anything wrong with providing this much needed service because the cheaters would do so without his help. And he is making a really good living from it. Ain't free enterprise in America grand? Yeah, baby. Do what you like! Don't worry about hurting your spouse, ruining your marriage, alienating your children, or setting a bad example for your children. None of that stuff will happen unless somehow the discreet factor fails and you get caught. Don't forget your raincoat!
The Ashley Madison Agency's trademarked motto is: Life is short. Have an affair. It boasts having over 2,950,000 "like minded members" as the "World's premier discreet dating service."
And you can join for free! Oh, joy! But wait... there's also a 100% guarantee that you WILL have an affair. Well, all of the faithful, non-cheating spouses must love the hell out of that! They can just leave their tedious love-making duties to someone else. It's like having a sex maid. You probably won't know about it, though, with everything being so discreet and secretive.
Ashley Madison must be what every loyal spouse has always wanted... someone to help their presumably unhappy (or down right greedy and selfish) other half step out on them without them having a clue.
For the record, Tyra was appalled by this practice. According to the site, the agency has also been featured on Howard Stern, 20/20, Ellen, Dr. Phil, and Larry King. By the way, the owner is married and said he does not cheat. His wife said that she is not worried about him straying. In addition, the owner does not find anything wrong with providing this much needed service because the cheaters would do so without his help. And he is making a really good living from it. Ain't free enterprise in America grand? Yeah, baby. Do what you like! Don't worry about hurting your spouse, ruining your marriage, alienating your children, or setting a bad example for your children. None of that stuff will happen unless somehow the discreet factor fails and you get caught. Don't forget your raincoat!
Calisthenics Kingz
Check out this guy! My, how he moves. His name is George Richards, aka Calisthenics Kingz. His abs are chiseled to perfection. Well, he is a personal trainer who has been tagged the Bronx Born Hercules. And he says it's all without the use of weights, just calisthenics. I saw a video clip of him on Inside Edition today. Fan-freakin-tastic! Additional videos are posted on YouTube (search Calisthenics Kingz).
November 27, 2008
Thanksgiving: Dear Soldier
Thanksgiving is tomorrow. What are you thankful for? Many of us are truly grateful to have family and friends with us. Unfortunately, thousands of families have a loved one serving overseas who cannot be with them this holiday season. We should all be thankful for the men and women who are serving in the military, at home or abroad, in an effort to protect us.
The following poem is one I penned after a conversation with a dear friend who is on his third tour of duty in Iraq. I'm thankful for some lasting friendships I formed while serving in the U.S. Army as well as for the friendship with military members I've met elsewhere. The term "soldier" is used here to encompass members of all branches of the military. And thanks to FreedomTeamSalute.com, U.S. Army Veterans, a spouse, an employer or an entity that supports the Army can be given a commendation. Please visit their site for more details.
Dear Soldier
Thank you, dear soldier, for your service every single day
For making sure America is a lot less in harm’s way
Being away from home for so long undoubtedly takes its toll
You miss family, friends, everyday comforts… the Lazy Boy and remote control
But your resilient nature kicks in again and again
And you find ways to stay positive until your deployment comes to an end
So America is grateful that she can close her eyes and sleep peacefully at night
Without waking to a terrorist engineered, deadly and tragic plight
The old girl is admired and disliked all at once, curiously
From time to time, outside forces seek to challenge her, hoping to see
If she will be immobilized, struck down via the smallest weakness found
Because of you, dear soldier, she has been able to react, to stand, to rebound
People across this great nation appreciate you putting your personal needs aside
And jumping back into the Humvee and back into battle you ride
Never losing sight of your ultimate goal as you labor to set things right
Not only to keep America safe but to return in the same mental and physical
condition as when you joined the fight
You are also acknowledged, dear soldier assigned to the rear. Your work is
immensely important, too
For it’s your preparation and support that allows our troops serving abroad to
do what they do
We, the American people, want you to know that without you all, she would
fail the enemy’s test
And for that, dear soldier, we remain thankful and vigilantly pray that you are
always safe and forever blessed
Sunida E. York © 2008 All Rights Reserved
The following poem is one I penned after a conversation with a dear friend who is on his third tour of duty in Iraq. I'm thankful for some lasting friendships I formed while serving in the U.S. Army as well as for the friendship with military members I've met elsewhere. The term "soldier" is used here to encompass members of all branches of the military. And thanks to FreedomTeamSalute.com, U.S. Army Veterans, a spouse, an employer or an entity that supports the Army can be given a commendation. Please visit their site for more details.
Dear Soldier
Thank you, dear soldier, for your service every single day
For making sure America is a lot less in harm’s way
Being away from home for so long undoubtedly takes its toll
You miss family, friends, everyday comforts… the Lazy Boy and remote control
But your resilient nature kicks in again and again
And you find ways to stay positive until your deployment comes to an end
So America is grateful that she can close her eyes and sleep peacefully at night
Without waking to a terrorist engineered, deadly and tragic plight
The old girl is admired and disliked all at once, curiously
From time to time, outside forces seek to challenge her, hoping to see
If she will be immobilized, struck down via the smallest weakness found
Because of you, dear soldier, she has been able to react, to stand, to rebound
People across this great nation appreciate you putting your personal needs aside
And jumping back into the Humvee and back into battle you ride
Never losing sight of your ultimate goal as you labor to set things right
Not only to keep America safe but to return in the same mental and physical
condition as when you joined the fight
You are also acknowledged, dear soldier assigned to the rear. Your work is
immensely important, too
For it’s your preparation and support that allows our troops serving abroad to
do what they do
We, the American people, want you to know that without you all, she would
fail the enemy’s test
And for that, dear soldier, we remain thankful and vigilantly pray that you are
always safe and forever blessed
Sunida E. York © 2008 All Rights Reserved
November 22, 2008
Webcam broadcasts Fla. teen's suicide
Abraham Biggs committed suicide at his Pembroke Pines, Florida home while viewers watched via his webcam. Some viewers encouraged the 19-year-old to end his life. Vile comments show that they were annoyed that he had threatened suicide on other occasions.
Biggs posted a note, alleged to have been copied from at least two other sources previously posted on the Internet. In photos on his MySpace page, the teen is posing with smiling women though he is not smiling in most of the pictures. The link to the thread on justin.tv, where the death by drug overdose was aired live, has been removed. Another link on bodybuilding.com where the young man was berated and told to make good on his threat after announcing his intentions to commit suicide has been removed as well.
Family members told police that the lethal combination of drugs that claimed Biggs' life were medications prescribed for his bipolar disorder.
If you think that someone is about to commit suicide, prevention assistance is available through the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline via a 24-hour toll-free number, 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255). The call is confidential and you may call for yourself or someone you'd like to help. The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention also offers assistance. Please visit the website.
Abraham Biggs' story is a sad commentary on how easily a young life can be lost when no one is paying attention or taking their issues seriously. Although it cannot be said with certainty that his death could have been prevented, it is certain that those who sat at their computers and watched during a 12 hour period could have acted sooner to alert authorities so that the necessary intervention could have been implemented in a timely manner.
I hope that this young man's soul is finally at peace. My condolences are extended to his family and friends.
Reggie Watts
I just stummbled across this guy on Youtube. He's unique and has MAD skilz!!
Out of Control
It's Over
Out of Control
It's Over
November 20, 2008
November 19, 2008
Gospel Classics
I grew up listening to Gospel music and I still love to listen to traditional Gospel to this day. Some of the best Gospel music is extremely difficult to find or simply no longer available. Thanks to kind folks who post it on Youtube, I am able to hear music that I haven't listened to in years. Here some classic for you to enjoy.
Myrna Summers - Uncloudy Day
The Rev. Reuben Willingham - New Walk
The Gerald Sister (Mullins, SC) Help Me To Bear These Tides
The Meditation Singers - Jesus, Be A Fence
Dorothy Love Coates - City Built Four Square
The Commodores - Jesus Is Love
Myrna Summers - Uncloudy Day
The Rev. Reuben Willingham - New Walk
The Gerald Sister (Mullins, SC) Help Me To Bear These Tides
The Meditation Singers - Jesus, Be A Fence
Dorothy Love Coates - City Built Four Square
The Commodores - Jesus Is Love
November 17, 2008
Comedian Katt Williams Hospitalized
According to a published report, comedian and actor, Katt Williams, was in Sumter, South Carolina on Friday and ended up at the local hospital after family members urged him to seek psychiatric care. The 35-year-old funny man was in town to visit his daughter when his behavior became increasing bizarre. Police were called but they did not feel that he needed to be taken into custody. Williams allegedly consulted a local attorney because he was concerned about a possible violation of his rights. Williams has acted in several movies, including "First Sunday", "Norbit", and "The Perfect Holiday".
Link: The Item
November 6, 2008
October 30, 2008
I Hope You're Still Dancin'
For all of you who wanted to hear Gladys Knight's rendition of the song from the soundtrack of Tyler Perry's The Family That Preys, someone posted it on Youtube a few days ago. Also included below is a version by powerful vocalist Oleta Adams. Someone was kind enough to let me know that these posts were available (thank you). Enjoy and keep dancing!
Gladys Knight
Oleta Adams
Gladys Knight
Oleta Adams
October 29, 2008
Rapping 7th Graders Debate Obama v. McCain
Seventh graders from the Ron Clark Academy perform "You Can Vote However You Like," a parody to TI's "Whatever You Like," at the Coca-Cola Leadership Summit in Atlanta, Georgia.
--
Lyrics:
Obama on the left
McCain on the right
We can talk politics all night
And you can vote however you like
You can vote however you like, yeah
Democratic left
Republican right
November 4th we decide
And you can vote however you like
You can vote however you like, yeah
(McCain supporters)
McCain's the best candidate
With Palin as his running mate
They'll fight for gun rights, pro life,
The conservative right
Our future is bright
Better economy in site
And all the world will feel our military might
(Obama supporters)
But McCain and Bush are real close right
They vote alike and keep it tight
Obama's new, he's younger too
The Middle Class he will help you
He'll bring a change, he's got the brains
McCain and Bush are just the same
You are to blame, Iraq's a shame
Four more years would be insane
Lower your Taxes - you know Obama Won't
PROTECT THE LOWER CLASS - You know McCain won't!
Have enough experience - you know that they don't
STOP GLOBAL WARMING - you know that you won't
I want Obama
FORGET OBAMA
Stick with McCain and you're going to have some drama
We need it
HE'LL BRING IT
He'll be it
YOU'LL SEE IT
We'll do it
GET TO IT
Let's move it
DO IT!
Obama on the left
McCain on the right
We can talk politics all night
And you can vote however you like
You can vote however you like, yeah
Democratic left
Republican right
November 4th we decide
And you can vote however you like, I said
You can vote however you like, yeah
I'm talking big pipe lines, and low gas prices
Below $2.00 that would be nice
But to do it right we gotta start today
Finding renewable ways that are here to stay
I want Obama
FORGET OBAMA,
Stick wit McCain you gone have some drama
MORE WAR IN IRAQ
Iran he will attack
CAN'T BRING OUR TROOPS BACK
We gotta vote Barack!
Obama on the left
McCain on the right
We can talk politics all night
And you can vote however you like, I said
You can vote however you like, yeah
Democratic left
Republican right
November 4th we decide
And you can vote however you like, I said
You can vote however you like, yeah
--
www.ronclarkacademy.com
Category: News & Politics
October 27, 2008
October 22, 2008
Keep Your Eye on the Ref... And He Tackles!
I'm not a big sports fan so I'm certainly not that knowledgeable about football plays. But I don't think that the referee should be tackling the players. The South Carolina Gamecock's Stephen Garcia was probably just as surprised.
Click to read full article by Matt Hinton.
Related articles:
The Wiz of Odds
The Times and Democrat on Garcia
Team Rankings
Click to read full article by Matt Hinton.
Related articles:
The Wiz of Odds
The Times and Democrat on Garcia
Team Rankings
October 20, 2008
Colin Powell Endorses Barack Obama
Colin Powell Endorses Barack Obama
Colin Powell Discusses His Endorsement of Barack Obama
Colin Powell Discusses His Endorsement of Barack Obama
October 17, 2008
He's Back... Elmo Live!
Kids love Elmo. He's back and better in time for Christmas.
The interactive life-like toy goes on sale nationwide on October 14, 2008 with a suggested retail price of $59.99. Elmo Live can speak, sit and stand, wave his arms, display mannerisms and cross his legs as he sings songs, plays games, and tells jokes and stories. Recommended for children ages 18 and up.
Price: $60.00 and up, depending on where you make your purchase.
Fisher-Price - $60.00
Amazon - $84.99
Videogames4u - $89.99
Fun with Elmo
The interactive life-like toy goes on sale nationwide on October 14, 2008 with a suggested retail price of $59.99. Elmo Live can speak, sit and stand, wave his arms, display mannerisms and cross his legs as he sings songs, plays games, and tells jokes and stories. Recommended for children ages 18 and up.
Price: $60.00 and up, depending on where you make your purchase.
Fisher-Price - $60.00
Amazon - $84.99
Videogames4u - $89.99
Fun with Elmo
October 16, 2008
Art DuFour
On colorful backgrounds stand whimsical trees
Most standing tall, some happy, some serene
And others with branches to the side, obviously blown by a strong breeze
A thin figure sprawled across a bed
Is she tired? Perhaps she’s a bit sad
Whatever the case, she sparks thoughts within your head
A bunch of flowers picked and offered by only a hand,
The intriguing and enticing work of a virtual novice
Like the single flower on a purple wall, it makes a bold stand
This may be your first encounter with such curly branches on a tree
Different, fun, lacking pretense… art by Chris DuFour
Out of the ordinary and worth a look. Come see
Sunida E. York © 2008 All Rights Reserved
Use of artwork courtesy of Chris DuFour.
Copyright 2005-2008 by Chris DuFour All Rights Reserved.
Celebrity News: Madonna, Janet Jackson
According to the ladies of The View, singer Madonna's publicist has confirmed that she and husband, Guy Ritchie are divorcing. Did sexy slugger A-Rod (Alex Rodriguez) have a hand in the break up? Stay tuned.
What's been the cause of singer Janet Jackson's concert cancellations? A rare form of migraine headaches known as vestibular migraines. The headaches cause vertigo and have kept Jackson from continuing her Rock Witchu Tour, People magazine reported.
Ms. Jackson is getting treatment and will resume the tour in Washington, D.C. on Wednesday night. Appearances that were previously postponed are set to be rescheduled. Undoubtedly, her fans are thrilled that she's feeling better and is ready to give them the type of performance they have come to expect.
October 14, 2008
Vibe announce Best Rapper Alive: Eminem
In it's Best Rapper Alive contest, Vibe Magazine tallied up an unbelievable 920,000 final votes of which Eminem garnered 69 percent to Jay-Z's 31 percent. The outcome of the contest has caused a lot of controvery amongst rap fans, many of whom are crying foul. A quick glance at the photos of the contestants might offer an obvious clue... Slim Shady, aka Eminem, is the only white rapper. Something equally blatant is that the fans who voted clearly preferred his flow to any of his black counterparts. The fans seem to also enjoy his storytelling ability and his honesty.
The fans have spoken. Let the rapper savor his victory without turning it into a race issue. Great skills and inherent talent are just that, no matter who embodies them.
Click here for the full version of the contest: Best Rapper
McCain: Clearly Not Presidential Material
Between John McCain and his running mate, Sarah Palin, spouting asinine falsehoods about Senator Barack Obama (terrorist, Muslim, untrustworthy, etc.), the racists are coming out in record numbers to McCain/Palin rallies. It will not be in the best interest of this country to go back down that road. John McCain is not ready to lead this country but he's doing a great job of dividing it even further. McCain's half-hearted efforts to put the genie back in the bottle do not fool those of us who have a brain and use it. Barack Obama is the only sane choice.
Palin Supporter Brings Racist Monkey "Obama" Doll to Rally
Week of Hate: Rachel Maddow interviews presidential historian Doris Kearns Goodwin
Hate Week: Rachel Maddow recaps Mccain/Palin nasty attacks
Thanks for the link, Jackie!
Palin Supporter Brings Racist Monkey "Obama" Doll to Rally
Week of Hate: Rachel Maddow interviews presidential historian Doris Kearns Goodwin
Hate Week: Rachel Maddow recaps Mccain/Palin nasty attacks
Thanks for the link, Jackie!
October 10, 2008
October 7, 2008
Plaxico Burress - "Unapologetic"
I'm not much of a sports fan, but I decided to read the article behind the headline to find out why this young football player was being called "unapologetic" about a recent suspension from his team, the New York Giants. As you football fans must already know, Plaxico Burress is the wide reciever who caught the touchdown that won the Giants the Super Bowl.
A quick scan of the article reveals that Burress missed a team meeting and failed to call to say that he would not be attending. He had to take his son to school and feels that he made the right decision.
My first thought is that since being a football player is his job, his livelihood, how he pays the bills, etc., he should have put in a courtesy phone call. That's what any employee would have to do. However, I do agree that putting his son first (assuming that he had no other means of getting the child to school) was indeed the right thing to do. It did cost him a one game suspension and week's pay, said to be about $117,500. Burress is quoted as saying that his family will continue to come first, but he would at least make a phone call to the team if there is another situation with his family. Sounds good to me.
Tyler Perry opens new studio with party
Tyler Perry opened his new studio in Atlanta on Saturday night with a star-studded party. Guests included Cicely Tyson, Oprah Winfrey, Ruby Dee, Will Smith, Sidney Poitier and numerous actors who have appeared in his movies.
Lamman Rucker - Why Did I Get Married? Additional PhotosPerry has secured his place in entertainment history by becoming the first African-American to own a full-service movie and television studio. His movies, Diary of a Mad Black Woman, Daddy's Little Girls, Madea's Family Reunion, Why Did I Get Married?, and The Family That Preys have cemented his success. House of Pain is Perry's first television sitcom. The spin-off, Meet The Browns is due to air soon.
To read the entire Essence magazine article and view more pictures of Perry's party guests, click here: Party pics
The festivities surrounding the opening of Tyler Perry's new studio did not seem to be impacted by a planned picket and allegations of illegal firings by former writers for his sitcom, House of Pain. The writers claim to have been paid wages well below scale, denied health care benefits and residuals for writing what has become the highest rated basic cable television show in cable's history. The show has already gone into syndication. The writers had asked party guests not to cross their picket lines, apparently to no avail.
Read the writers' appeal letter here: Letter requesting support
WGA Creators, Showrunners, and Executive Producers Submit an Open Letter to the Producers of Tyler Perry's House of Payne
Statement of Support from SAG National Board member Anne-Marie Johnson
Of those Perry fans who have heard of the plight of the writers, some are voicing their support but many remain loyal to the highly admired screenwriter, producer, director and actor. Hopefully, the controversy can be worked out in a manner that benefits all who worked hard for the success of House of Payne.
October 6, 2008
October 2, 2008
Richard Gere & Diane Lane - Nights in Rodanthe
If you're a sucker for romance or just a Richard Gere fan, you'll be enthralled by the love that he and Diane Lane discover in this bitter-sweet drama.
October - Breast Cancer Awareness Month
Actress,Christina Applegate , star of Smantha Who?, recently appeared on Oprah to talk about her double mastectomy. Although it was clearly still a very emotional issue for her, she bravely and openly spoke about her ordeal. She wanted to others about the journey that led to her decision to have both of her breasts removed as she felt it was imperative that other women be given the opportunity to obtain the information necessary to possibly save their lives. Christina's oncologist, Dr. Philomena McAndrew, was also on the show sharing vital information and answering questions. If you missed the show, please visit Oprah's website to view the video footage and read the information packed articles.
Other cancer survivors were on hand to tell their stories. One of those is the sister of Susan G. Komen, Nancy Brinker who started the foundation after her sister lost her battle with breast cancer.
People previously diagnosed with breast cancer are at greatest risk of having breast cancer. If a first-degree relative (mother,sister, daughter) has had breast cancer, you also have a higher risk. Being overweight or drinking alcohol also puts you at risk for developing breast cancer. Tripple negative breast cancer is of great concern to African-American women as it strikes twice as many black women and is resistant to certain treatments. Males can also have breast cancer. Please visit the Spotlight on Health section of Oprah.com for more detailed information provided by the experts at WebMD
Self-breast exams are still an important tool in the early detection of breast cancer. Women should begin having mammograms at age 40, unless they are identified as being at-risk because of family history. In addition, women who have dense breast tissue should ask to have an ultra sound and/or MRI to make certain no abnormalities are missed.
There is hope on the horizon thanks to the efforts of doctors like Susan Love who founded the Dr. Susan Love Research Foundation and teamed up with the Avon Foundation to start the Army of Women who are healthy volunteers involved in the research process. A vaccine, NeuVax, is also being tested for the prevention of of the recurrence of the disease.
Related Links and Articles:
Right Action for Women - Christina Applegate Foundation
Christina Applegate Online (fan site)
BreastCancer.org
Click to Give @ The Breast Cancer site
National Cancer Institute
Medline Plus: Breast Cancer (U.S. Nationla Library of Medicine and the National Institutes of Health
Christina Applegate's Double Mastectomy: FAQ @ WebMD
Which pink products really help fight breast cancer?
Guide To Buying Pink
You’re Sick. Now What? Knowledge Is Power.
Michelle Obama Biography
Synopsis
She can be funny and sharp-tongued, warm and blunt, empathic and demanding. Who is the woman Barack Obama calls "the boss"? In Michelle, Washington Post writer Liza Mundy paints a revealing and intimate portrait, taking us inside the marriage of the most dynamic couple in politics today. She shows how well they complement each other: Michelle, the highly organized, sometimes intimidating, list-making pragmatist; Barack, the introspective political charmer who won't pick up his socks but shoots for the stars. Their relationship, like those of many couples with two careers and two children, has been so strained at times that he has had to persuade her to support his climb up the political ladder. And you can't blame her for occasionally regretting it: In this campaign, it is Michelle who has absorbed much of the skepticism from voters about Obama. One conservative magazine put her on the cover under the headline "Mrs. Grievance."
Michelle's story carries with it all the extraordinary achievements and lingering pain of America in the post-civil rights era. She grew up on the south side of Chicago, the daughter of a city worker and a stay-at-home mom in a neighborhood rocked by white flight. She was admitted to Princeton amid an angry debate about affirmative action and went on to Harvard Law School, where she was more comfortable doing pro-bono work for the poor than gunning for awards with the rest of her peers. She became a corporate lawyer, then left to train community leaders. She is modern in her tastes but likes to watch reruns of The Dick Van Dyke Show and The Brady Bunch.
In this carefully reported biography, drawing upon interviews with morethan one hundred people, including one with Michelle herself, Mundy captures the complexity of this remarkable woman and the remarkable life she has lived.
October 1, 2008
Columnist Kathleen Parker - The Palin Problem
Kathleen Parker, a self-proclaimed Sarah Palin supporter who publicly acknowledged her enthusiasm for Senator McCain's choice of running mate, is now denouncing Palin as being "out of her league"!
Read the full article: The Palin Problem
Tina Fey as Sarah Palin on Saturday Night Live: Palin Spoof
Read the full article: The Palin Problem
Tina Fey as Sarah Palin on Saturday Night Live: Palin Spoof
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