Did the Police Cover Up the Murder of Raymond Robair?

by Dr. Boyce Watkins, Your Black World 

Raymond Robair died nearly five years ago. It appeared for years that the officers who arrived on the scene tried to help him. Now, some are wondering if they made the entire story up.
Officers Melvin Williams and Matthew Dean Moore stated that while they were patrolling the streets, they saw a man who was "stumbling and holding his upper chest area." They then said that Robair collapsed and that they drove him to the hospital, where he died. A pair of broken ribs punctured his spleen and liver, and the officers were cleared by an internal police investigation, partially substantiated by the coroner’s report.
The greater problem though is that there are several residents in the area who dispute the account of the police officers. Several witnesses say they saw the officers punch and kick Robair. Also, an independent autopsy requested by the family ruled the death a homicide.

 

Click to read.

Your Black News – 7/30/10

Death of Ex-NBA Player Lorenzen Wright Appears Complicated

• Former NBA player Lorenzen Wright, the man whose body was found in the woods, was shot to death … Read More
• By Dr. Boyce Watkins, PhD on Jul 30th 2010 10:13AM | Comments (0)

Times Columnist Says Obama’s White House is ‘Too White’ — Misses Point

• NYT columnist Maureen Dowd thinks Obama’s administration "is too white" due to a lack of black … Read More
• By Brentin Mock on Jul 30th 2010 10:00AM | Comments (0)

How to Manage Your Finances Amid High Unemployment

• Although some aspect of the economy are on the mend, the White House is nevertheless predicting … Read More
• By Lynnette Khalfani-Cox on Jul 30th 2010 10:00AM | Comments (0)

White Man Attacked By Black Teen For Listening To Gucci Mane

• A Florida man says he was the victim of a racially motivated attack Monday, when he was punched … Read More
• By Kevin Eason on Jul 30th 2010 9:31AM | Comments (2)

Robert Freeman, 13-Year-Old Boy, DEAD: Shot 22 Times While Riding Bike

• Theresa Lumpkin was, until Thursday, the Mother of 13-year-old Robert Freeman Jr. of Chicago. … Read More
• By Boyce Watkins, PhD on Jul 30th 2010 8:59AM | Comments (1)

Good Morning. Great Day

• Your Daily Affirmation for Thursday, July 29, 2010: Good Morning. Great Day. Heart open. … Read More
• By Barry Johnson on Jul 30th 2010 12:34AM | Comments (3)

Around the Web — Misogynistic Songs That Women Love, Obama Calls Blacks ‘Mongrels’ + More

• Ever notice how the nastier and more misogynistic a song is, the more some women seem to love … Read More
• By Journey Ade on Jul 29th 2010 6:00PM | Comments (1)

How to Get a Chelsea Clinton Wedding On a Budget

• If you’re like most people, you can’t help but be fascinated with the extravagant details of … Read More
• By Hayat Mohamed on Jul 29th 2010 5:07PM | Comments (4)

VIDEO — Drake’s Hilarious Nardwuar Interview

• Canadian personality Nardwuar the Human Serviette is known for many things, but boring … Read More
• By Journey Ade on Jul 29th 2010 4:00PM | Comments (1)

Rangel to Stand Trial on 13 Ethics Violation Charges

• After 40 years as a Congressman, Charlie Rangel will stand trial on 13 counts of ethics … Read More
• By Jeff Mays on Jul 29th 2010 3:35PM | Comments (6)

Tyler Perry To Produce ‘We The Peeples’ For Lionsgate

• Through his 34th Street Films with Lionsgate, Tyler Perry will help finance the comedy ”We The … Read More
• By Wilson Morales on Jul 29th 2010 3:33PM | Comments (4)

Anna Wintour & Barack Obama Dinner: Vogue Editor’s Fundraiser Has $30,000 Entry Fee

• It was a whirlwind of a day for President Barack Obama, who yesterday went from meeting with small … Read More
• By Qianna Smith on Jul 29th 2010 3:33PM | Comments (2)

Despite Three Year Jail Sentence, Wesley Snipes Teams With Antoine Fuqua For ‘After Dark’ Comic

• Despite his legal woes, Wesley Snipes is taking his career and influence to new levels. The … Read More
• By Wilson Morales on Jul 29th 2010 3:30PM | Comments (3)

Shirley Sherrod To Sue Andrew Breitbart

• Last time we had anything to say about conservative blogger Andrew Breitbart we just dumped on … Read More
• By Madison J. Gray on Jul 29th 2010 3:15PM | Comments (13)

Basil Marceaux, Republican Candidate for Governor of Tennessee, Promises Freedom and ‘Teeths’!

• Jesus, where do we begin? The latest testimony/embarrassment to American democracy comes to us … Read More
• By Jam Donaldson on Jul 29th 2010 3:00PM | Comments (5)

Cleveland Fans Behaving Like Disgruntled and Insecure Ex-Husbands

by Dr. Boyce Watkins, Your Black World 

There has been considerable speculation regarding whether or not the Cleveland Cavaliers should retire the jersey of LeBron James. After James’ disappointing decision to leave Cleveland to start a new life in a larger, more vibrant city with better weather, some Cleveland fans are behaving like disgruntled ex-husbands, angry that things didn’t work out.

My question in response to those who wonder whether the Cavs should retire LeBron’s jersey is this: “Why wouldn’t you?”

 

Click to read.

Black News: 13-Year Old Boy Murdered in Case of Mistaken Identity

by Dr. Boyce Watkins, Your Black World

Theresa Lumpkin was, until yesterday, the mother of 13-year old Robert Freeman Jr. of Chicago. Her tenure as his parent ended with the young boy was shot and killed on the South Side of Chicago in what many believe to be a case of mistaken identity.
Witnesses say that the murder was deliberate, as the gunman shot the young boy multiple times.
"My baby was just lying there,” said Lumpkin. "He tried to get up. He tried to fight for his mama. He tried to fight for his life.”
Neighbors who saw the incident did not want their names to be published.
"I was running out [of] the door to say, ‘Stop shooting that baby,’" one neighbor said.
Robert had 22 bullet holes in his body, according to doctors. The people of the community say that he was apparently targeted because he had the same complexion, height and hairstyle of another boy who was the actual target. Police are investigating whether the shooting was due to a dispute over drugs or money.
This was the fourth teen shooting in the area this week.

 

Click to read.

Boyce Watkins and Rev. Al Sharpton Discuss The Treatment of Shirley Sherrod, Affirmative Action, and Other Current Events on Keeping It Real

Boyce Watkins and Rev. Al Sharpton Discuss The Treatment of Shirley Sherrod, Affirmative Action, and Other Current Events on Keeping It Real

Boyce Watkins and Charles Ogletree Appear on Al Sharpton’s Hour of Power

Dr. Boyce Watkins and Dr. Charles Ogletree Appear on Rev. Al Sharpton’s Hour of Power

Your Black News – 7/28/10

• 
  

  Rihanna and Eminem team up for ‘important’ new song

  By Lana Schupbach

  5:59 PM on 07/27/2010

  VIDEO -She’s also taken on the task of planning Katy Perry’s bachelorette party…

  > MORE

• 
  

  Hard-hitting former Raider Jack Tatum dies at 61

  By theGrio

  3:47 PM on 07/27/2010

  COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) – Nicknamed "The Assassin," Tatum died of a heart attack Tuesday in Oakland, according to friend and former Ohio State teammate John Hicks….

  > MORE

• 
  

  Obama says he still supports major climate legislation

  By theGrio

  2:33 PM on 07/27/2010

  WASHINGTON (AP) – Last week, Senate Democrats abandoned plans for a sweeping measure that would cap greenhouse gases blamed for global warming…

  > MORE

• 
  

  Black Eyed Peas’ Taboo protests AZ immigration law

  By Trenae McDuffie

  2:00 PM on 07/27/2010

  VIDEO – Taboo, a Mexican-American, says the video was inspired by his personal experiences, too…

  > MORE

• 
  

  Rangel, ethics panel lawyers talking deal on charges

  By theGrio

  1:13 PM on 07/27/2010

  WASHINGTON (AP) – Earlier negotiations broke down when Rangel would only admit to some allegations — not enough to satisfy the committee lawyers…

  > MORE

• 
  

  Embattled ex-football star Clarett back in class at Ohio

  By theGrio

  12:33 PM on 07/27/2010

  COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) – Clarett says in a statement that it is a "surreal feeling to be back at Ohio State" and that he doesn’t want to be a "distraction or nuisance" to the football team or other students…

  > MORE

• 
  

  Aretha and Rice make music for inner-city youth

  By theGrio

  11:01 AM on 07/27/2010

  PHILADELPHIA (AP) – Condoleezza Rice is no stranger to the whims of royalty. So when the Queen of Soul herself, Aretha Franklin, decided the two should get together to play a song or two for charity, it was decreed…

  > MORE

• 
  

  NFL: No change in Vick’s playing status

  By theGrio

  10:06 AM on 07/27/2010

  BETHLEHEM, Pa. (AP) – Michael Vick said Monday that he cried following the shooting after his 30th birthday bash, but not because he had done anything wrong…

  > MORE

• 
  

  Immigrant groups criticize fingerprint initiative

  By theGrio

  9:38 AM on 07/27/2010

  DENVER (AP) – The program has gotten less attention than Arizona’s new immigration law, but it may end up having a bigger impact…

  > MORE

• 
  

  GOP invites Breitbart to fundraiser for Steele

  By theGrio

  9:08 AM on 07/27/2010

  WASHINGTON (AP) – Breitbart was behind an edited video clip of a former Department of Agriculture official that suggested Shirley Sherrod, who is black, denied a white farmer aid…

  > MORE

• 
  

  Rapper DMX begins 90-day jail sentence in LA

  By theGrio

  9:00 AM on 07/27/2010

  LOS ANGELES (AP) – DMX has been repeatedly arrested and jailed in the past decade, recently serving a sentence in an Arizona jail for violating probation by failing a drug test…

  > MORE

• 
  

  Michelle and Sasha Obama to visit castles in Spain

  By theGrio

  8:05 AM on 07/27/2010

  WASHINGTON (AP) – The White House says Mrs. Obama will pay an official visit to Spain’s King Juan Carlos and Queen Sophia…

  > MORE

Valencia Roner: Is the Black Church a Weapon of Mass Distraction?

For those who are regular visitors to my blog, you may know the story of how and why I stopped attending traditional church services on Sunday mornings. It was a difficult decision, however, in the end, I found peace in the Lord in such a way I never did before. Of course I love great preaching with a solid message and the angelic sound of choirs. Yet, the cancer of deception, drama, occasional berating and confusion was not worth all the great messages and great choirs on earth.
I was reminded of this when I came across The Lexi Show, which just got cancelled. I had never heard of The Lexi Show which was on The Word Network, a cable gospel network. I found it very entertaining for what it was.
I came across a forum she hosted with one of my favorite human beings, Bishop Carlton Pearson. As many of you may know, Bishop Pearson was formerly denounced by the Council of Bishops for his message on theGospel of Inclusion. A premise that basically says that Christ came for all, all are already saved – no matter who you are – whether one may know it or not. Even more controversial, Pearson has also professed that he believes there is no formal “hell” except for the one we create for ourselves and others.

 

Click to read.

Facebook Argument Over Inmate’s Love Leads to Woman’s Death

A Facebook feud between two women who claimed to love the same prison inmate led to a high-speed chase and a crash that critically injured one of the rivals, killed her friend and left the second rival facing murder charges.

Torrie Emery was arraigned Friday in Pontiac’s 50th District Court on multiple felonies, as friends of the dead woman were holding a car wash to pay for her funeral.

"It’s unbelievable," Pontiac police Chief Valard S. Gross told The Associated Press as he described the escalating dispute that ended with Wednesday’s deadly crash. "It’s just crazy."

According to Gross, Emery, 23, and Danielle Booth, 20, had been feuding for some time, leading to an earlier police complaint. According to Emery’s family, the dispute was over a 23-year-old man now serving time in a Michigan prison.

 

Click to read.

Black News for you – 7/25/10

‎

Michelle Obama Cracks the Bubbly for US Coast Guard Ship Christening‎

Michelle Obama praises Coast Guard for oil spill response

Former slave and Union soldier honored at last

Ex-mayor makes Memphis, Tenn. primary about race

Obama Birthday Party: $30000 Per Person

President Barack Obama takes in daughter’s recital // Obama says his daughters Malia and Sasha will …‎

Sasha And Malia Obama Get Money Tips From their Dad‎

Rangel says he will fight charges with the ‘truth’

Your Black News – 7/25/10

Javier E. David

Writer

Blacks find breaking up is hard to do with incumbents

3:40 PM on 07/23/2010

OPINION – Rangel’s case is the latest in a dismaying series of black politicians who have run afoul of legal and ethical rules while in office yet still retain public support…

> MORE

Earl Ofari Hutchinson

Journalist, author and broadcaster.

Black farmers are the real victims of USDA discrimination

9:50 AM on 07/23/2010

OPINION – Even as Vilsack loftily intoned about clamping down on racial discrimination at the USDA, Congress again stonewalled the approval of the funds for black farmers…

> MORE

Dr. Boyce Watkins

Author and Finance Professor at Syracuse University

Do blacks feel betrayed by Obama’s silence on race?

8:22 AM on 07/23/2010

OPINION – President Obama has been as silent as a church mouse on some of the most riveting and racially-traumatic events to occur in recent U.S. history…

> MORE

John Mitchell

Sports Writer

Chris Paul may be latest player to pass on mediocrity

8:22 AM on 07/23/2010

OPINION – Paul should get out of New Orleans as soon as possible, and the Hornets should grant him his wish if they are not going to be seriously committed to winning…

> MORE

Dr. Wilmer J. Leon III

Political Scientist & Radio Host

Why Obama should give another race speech

4:08 PM on 07/22/2010

OPINION – The events of the past few days clearly indicate that race related issues and racism are alive, well, and living in America…

> MORE

Sophia A. Nelson

Political commentator and author

Obama should speak out about Sherrod, but probably won’t

12:26 PM on 07/22/2010

OPINION – How sad is it that our president, our nation’s first black president, cannot speak out to the nation in a major address and ask us to calm it down …

> MORE

Monique W. Morris

Author and Social Justice Advocate

Battle over ‘resegregation’ not over in NC

9:30 AM on 07/22/2010

OPINION – As a nation, we should remember that racial discrimination, in the form of separate and unequal education, is illegal…

> MORE

Javier E. David

Writer

Is Michael Steele made of teflon?

8:24 AM on 07/22/2010

OPINION – Are either his credibility issues or his tenuous hold on his job a function of his status as a black man?…

> MORE

Rod McCullom

TV news producer, writer, culture critic

Race still matters in the fight against HIV/AIDS

8:23 AM on 07/22/2010

OPINION – The false message that ‘only poor people’ become HIV positive could encourage middle class black men and women to engage in high-risk behavior…

> MORE

Black News – 7/22/10

Angelina and Chiwetel Talk ‘Salt’

Get Tamera Mowry’s Smoldering Eyes

CEO Shot to Death By Cop While ‘Cruising’?

Photo Credit: Sony Pictures Getty Images WLTX 19

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• President Obama Says Vilsack Jumped the Gun on Shirley Sherrod

  4:37 AMJul 23

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  President Obama recently spoke with ABC News and some other media outlets about the case of Shirley Sherrod, the woman who was dismissed after a doctored video surfaced to make it appear that Sherrod was making racist statements. It turned out that … Read More

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  5:16 PMJul 22

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• Around the Web — Obama & Shirley Sherrod Speak, Rapper Round Table + More

  5:00 PMJul 22

  Source: theBVX.com

  Having little time to bask in his financial reform victory, President Obama spoke with former USDA official Shirley Sherrod and expressed his regret over her ordeal, while still encouraging her to continue on in public service. [CNN] … Read More

• Obama To Host African Youth At D.C. Forum

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• Love Bytes: Hawaiian Wedding for T.I. & Tiny?, DMX’s Wife Pens Tell-All-Book & More

  5:00 PMJul 22

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  Word has it that rapper T.I. and his longtime fiancée Tameka "Tiny" Cottle are finally tying the knot this weekend in a small intimate ceremony in Hawaii. Rumors have been circling for the past two years about the couple saying ‘I do,’ but this time … Read More

The Latest from TheLoop21 – 7/22/10

• 

• 
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  Fri, 07/23/2010 – 00:00

  Your children can have a huge impact on the comfort, or lack thereof, you will experience when you decide to retire. …

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• Hip-hop ain’t nothing but b*tches and money

  Fri, 07/23/2010 – 00:00

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• Tiger’s brand is gold but Venus and Serena are one of "us"

  Wed, 07/21/2010 – 00:00

  The Williams sisters give us something to cheer about. …

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• Tracy Morgan’s chuckle over Mel, is he as bad as Whoopi?

  Tue, 07/20/2010 – 08:10

  If you make white people laugh, watch the opportunities roll in. …

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• Despite banker influence, Financial Reform is pretty good

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The Law-Abiding Black Man Has Gone Out of Style

by Dr. Boyce Watkins 

A lot of people make fun of the rapper Rick Ross. The sources of ridicule are numerous reports that Rick is not the drug dealer, king pin, or boss that he portrays in his music. In real life, he’s a regular, hard-working, law-abiding citizen. In fact, he was once a corrections officer.

The rapper 50 Cent has consistently taken Ross to task for allegedly defrauding the public by presenting an image that appears to be a figment of Ross’ powerful imagination. He often refers to Ross as “Officer Rick,” and seems set on ruining Ross’ highly successful career.

Ross has even been sued by the real “Freeway” Ricky Ross, a notorious drug dealer from the 1980s. Freeway Ricky has made what appears to be a plausible claim that the rapper stole his name and brand, using it to make millions. Had Freeway Ricky been born with a different name, Rick Ross the rapper may never have come into existence.

 

Click to read.

“Not the White Man’s Bitch” on Ballot?

by Dr. Boyce Watkins 

Ieshuh Griffin is a legislative candidate from Wisconsin who seems willing to do whatever it takes to get elected. In the five words that candidates are allowed to put on the ballot to describe themselves, Griffin put the phrase, "Not the white man’s b*tch."
Obviously, the words got the attention of the Government Accountability Board, who voted to reject the wording. Words are not allowed on the ballot if they are profane, discriminatory or include an obscene word or phrase.
Griffin, a black woman, took her case to a five judge panel. The entire panel happened to be white, which might be part of the reason that Griffin sees herself as having to confront a predominantly white power structure. She argued her case and fought, but didn’t win in the end.
"It’s a freedom of expression," she said to the panel. "It’s not racial. It’s not a slur."
Griffin earned a bit of a moral victory when three of the judges ruled in her favor. But she lost the war, given that she needed four votes to get her initiative passed. Thomas Barland, who spent 33 years as a judge, felt that the language was not a problem.

Click to read.

Congressional Black Caucus Meets with Agriculture Secretary Over Unjust Firing of Shirley Sherrod

Chairwoman Lee Releases Statement Following Meeting with Agriculture Secretary
Vilsack
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact : Nicole Y. Williams or J. Jioni Palmer
Washington D.C. – Today Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-CA), Chairwoman of the
Congressional Black Caucus, released the following statement following a meeting
of the Congressional Black Caucus with Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack
regarding the handling of matter resulting in the resignation of Shirley
Sherrod. 

“We want to thank Secretary Tom Vilsack for meeting with the Congressional Black
Caucus today regarding the issues surrounding the resignation of Shirley
Sherrod. During the meeting we expressed our concern regarding the handling of
the situation. Secretary Vilsack assured us that there would be a full review of
the process which led to this unfortunate situation. 

“We appreciate the apology issued today by the Administration and Secretary
Vilsack personally. He reiterated those same sentiments during our meeting. 

“We expressed to Secretary Vilsack that as the Administration and Department of
Agriculture begins the process of repairing the damage from this situation, we
are willing to work with them to ensure an equitable and fair outcome for Ms.
Sherrod. The meeting also provided an opportunity to openly discuss longstanding
issues of equity within the U.S. Department of Agriculture such as funding for
land grant colleges and the Black and Native American Farmers settlement to
address decades-long discrimination. 

“Shirley Sherrod’s story – the true story she told as evidenced in the full tape
of her remarks that has now been released – is one that we can use as the
starting point for a real dialogue on race. 

“As Americans, we need to build a shared understanding of our country's history
as we work to build a more perfect union. We look forward to continued dialogue
with Secretary Vilsack and the U.S. Department of Agriculture.”
### 

www.thecongressionalblackcaucus.com
To unsubscribe, click here.
J. Jioni Palmer
Communications Director
Congressional Black Caucus
(202) 226-1912 - office
(202) 579-5486 - cell
 

Dr. Boyce Watkins on Shirley Sherrod’s Forced Resignation – CNN’s Anderson Cooper 360

Dr. Boyce Watkins on Shirley Sherrod’s Forced Resignation – CNN’s Anderson Cooper 360

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Dr Boyce on the Al Sharpten Show

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Obama’s Declining Poll Numbers: Not His Fault

 

by Dr. Boyce Watkins, The Institute for Black Public Policy

Recent polls are showing that 6 out of 10 Americans are losing faith in President Obama’s ability to run our nation.  This decline in the president’s numbers is in stark contrast to where the numbers were at the start of his presidency.  They are also reflective of the general fact that Americans are losing faith in government.  While 60% of Americans polled say they have little belief in President Obama, 68% said the same thing about Democrats, and 72% said the same about Republicans.

I don’t agree with these assessments, since President Obama has proven time and time again that he is the most qualified candidate for the job.  The broader challenge for the American people is that there are almost never enough good candidates available.  The elitism that leads our officials to only consider Harvard and Yale graduates for the White House or Supreme Court nominations is disturbing, and such a limited set of selections is what causes us to choose incompetent individuals like George W. Bush or Clarence Thomas to run our country.

Click to read.

Cops Arrested for Trying to Rob a Drug Dealer

They say this kind of thing has been going on for a long time. ;

Why Would an NFL Player Choose to Also Deal Drugs?

by Dr. Boyce Watkins 

A very popular rap song with the chorus "Sippin on some sizzurp" was written by the group, Three Six Mafia. I never liked the song, and I never liked the trend. The trend involves something in the south called "Drank," that involves a mix of codeine with 7up or pieces of Jolly Rancher candy. Well, speaking of Jolly, The Green Bay suspended Defensive End Johnny Jolly for the entire 2010 season for getting caught with codeine cough syrup outside a nightclub in Houston. In fact, the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel is reporting that Jolly may have been more than a recreational user. The paper alleges that Jolly may have in fact, "bought, sold, funded, transported and aided in the buying, selling, funding and transportation of illegal narcotics including cocaine and marijuana."

Click to read.

NAACP vs. Tea Party

Recently the NAACP has been criticizing the Tea Party about the activities that take place at their rallies and calling some of them racist like, but on the flip side the Tea Party is accusing the NAACP of being racist.

Want to See Pictures of LeBron’s New House in Miami?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Latest in Black News – 7/16/10

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• 
  

  Devil’s Advocate — Why Whoopi Goldberg Needs t …

  theBVX.com

• The Love of God

  12:34 AMJul 16

  Source: BV Wellness

  Your Daily Affirmation for Thursday, July 15, 2010: I recognize, honor and give thanks for the Love of God. It is essential in me and in all of life. The Love of God is the life-giving force that turns winter into spring, blossoms in fruit, sickness … Read More

• Rush Limbaugh Insults Black People with "Cracker" Remark

  8:09 PMJul 15

  Source: BV Black Spin

  Rush Limbaugh is at it again, earning his paycheck from Premier Radio Networks. Recently on his show, he seemed to proudly celebrate the death of Yankees owner George Steinbrenner by referring to Steinbrenner as "the cracker who made a lot of African … Read More

• More Pressing Issues For NAACP Than Tea Party Racism

  6:45 PMJul 15

  Source: BV Black Spin

  I think the NAACP is wasting its time by passing a resolution asking the Tea Party to repudiate racism. It’s like asking a leopard to change its spots. It’s good to hear where the Tea Party is coming from. That makes it easier to identify and … Read More

• Around the Web — Jay-Z, Alicia Keys & Sade Team Up, Let Ochocinco Go + More

  6:15 PMJul 15

  Source: theBVX.com

  Jay-Z and Sade are teaming up with Alicia Keys to raise funds for Keys’ non-profit Keep A Child Alive charity. Scheduled for this September in NY, the charity’s annual Black Ball concert has helped bring attention to HIV/AIDS awareness. [AllHipHop] … Read More

• Vonetta McGee: Leading Lady of Blaxploitation Era Dead At 65

  6:06 PMJul 15

  Source: BV Newswire

  Vonetta McGee, an actress who scaled the ranks of Black Hollywood during blaxploitation film era of the 1970s, passed away after experiencing cardiac arrest and being on life support for two days. She was 65, though some have her year of birth listed … Read More

• Is the New Tanning Tax Racist?

  5:43 PMJul 15

  Source: BV on Money

  Some are fuming over a new tax that was quietly introduced into recent healthcare legislation. The tax is a 10 percent levy imposed solely on those who use ultraviolet indoor tanning beds. The tax is expected to raise $2.7 billion for the economy. It … Read More

• On Home Video: ‘Caught In The Crossfire’ With 50 Cent

  4:38 PMJul 15

  Source: BV on Movies

  Currently on home video ‘Caught in the Crossfire,’ starring multi-platinum recording artist and actor Curtis "50 Cent" Jackson. This good cop/bad cop action film also stars Adam Rodriguez, Chris Klein and Richard T. Jones. Filmed and set in Michigan, … Read More

• VIDEO — Affion Crockett Spoofs Drake’s Tim Westwood Freestyle

  4:00 PMJul 15

  Source: theBVX.com

  Comedian Affion Crockett is at it again with one of the best headphone sessions we’ve seen since Dave Chappelle made his rapping debut. This time, Affion is aiming his parody sights at Drake’s "freestyle" on Tim Westwood, complete with jazz hands and … Read More

Sherri Shepherd Stops by the Boyce Watkins’ AOL Show

Sherri Shepherd Stops by the Boyce Watkins’ AOL Show

Oil Leak in the Gulf Capped…For Now

As of now the oil in the Gulf has stoppped leaking for the first time since April 20th during an “integrity test” of the well.

Your Black News – 7/15/10

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• Mike Tyson’s Interview Reminds Us of How Conflicted He Is

  3:46 PMJul 15

  Source: BV on Sports

  Like everyone else on earth, I grew up with a serious admiration for Iron Mike Tyson. He was the baddest man on the planet, perhaps the baddest in history. My second cousin and greatest hero was always Muhammad Ali, but I never felt that he could … Read More

• Grandmother Charged With Highland Park Murder

  3:37 PMJul 15

  Source: BV Black Spin

  A Detroit woman argued with her son’s girlfriend, the mother of her two grandchildren, ages 3 and 5, and vowed to "get her." On Monday, she did just that by slashing her to death. … Read More

• Chad Ochocinco’s Reality Show Bothers Some Black Women… Why?

  2:25 PMJul 15

  Source: BV on Love

  Cleveland sports fans are pissed. So are black women. This is a familiar emotion for both groups. But oddly enough, this time around it’s for similar reasons. Both feel that they’ve been abandoned by black men behaving badly – more specifically … Read More

• 5 Questions … with Pharrell Williams

  2:02 PMJul 15

  Source: BV Newswire

  Entering this weekend as the #1 movie at the box office is ‘Despicable Me,’ and one of the highlights of the 3D animated film is the music score, which was composed by recording artist, producer, musician and fashion designer Pharrell Williams. The … Read More

• 2010 ESPY Awards Red Carpet Fashion

  2:00 PMJul 15

  Source: BV on Style

  Wednesday night marked the 2010 ESPY Awards in Los Angeles. Each year the awards ceremony recognizes athletes and teams for their exceptional athletic performance. This year’s winners included Kobe Bryant for ‘Best NBA Player,’ Floyd Mayweather for … Read More

• Revs. Jesse Jackson and Al Sharpton Downplay Tea Party Racism

  1:58 PMJul 15

  Source: BV Black Spin

  To the surprise of some, Revs. Jesse Jackson and Al Sharpton have pushed attention away from the recent NAACP resolution condemning racism within the Tea Party Movement. Instead, they’ve asked that the nation focus on jobs and the economic recovery … Read More

• BREAKING NEWS — Big Butts Are in Style, but We Already Knew That

  1:45 PMJul 15

  Source: theBVX.com

  According to a New York daily newspaper: No longer will Sir Mix-A-Lot be "tired of magazines saying flat butts are the thing" because big butts are officially the thing (whatever that means). … Read More

• Democrats Angered at Gibbs’ Comments About Election Prospects

  1:18 PMJul 15

  Source: BV Black Spin

  Gas up Air Force One. President Barack Obama is rolling out across the country in the coming months to campaign for Democrats heading in to midterm elections this fall. The news comes after House Speaker Nancy Pelosi complained that Obama wasn’t … Read More

Geraldo Rivera Interviews the New Black Panther Chief Malik Zulu Shabazz

Up until today I had never heard of the New Black Panther Party which IS NOT a successor of the Black Panther Party of the 1960s and 1970′s, click above to watch the “interesting” interview between Geraldo Rivera and Malik Zulu Shabazz.

Have You Ever Wondered “What if the Tea Party was Black”

While you may have never wondered this, rapper Jasiri X of Pittsburgh has and he even written a rap song about it so click above to check it out.

Mysterious Animal Found in Texas May be Chupacabra

For years it has been believed that the Chupacabra, which means “goat sucker” in Spanish, was just a myth but recently two mysterious animals were killed in Texas and they possibly may have been Chupacabras.

Texas Mayor allegedly Shoots Herself and Daughter to Death

 

Four notes were found at a home where the mayor of an upscale Dallas suburb apparently shot her 19-year-old daughter to death before fatally shooting herself, police said Wednesday.

An envelope taped to the front door of Mayor Jayne Peters’ home contained a key to the house and a typed note warning police they would find something unpleasant inside, Coppell Deputy Police Chief Steve Thomas said.

Three other notes contained instructions for managing family affairs, such as taking care of the dogs, but did not provide explanations for the deaths of Peters and her 19-year-old daughter, Corinne.

"It appeared to me that there had been some thought," Thomas said.

Police found the bodies Tuesday after the mayor failed to show up at a city council meeting. They said the Dallas County Medical Examiner’s Office ruled Wednesday that the case should be officially classified as a homicide-suicide investigation.

 

Click to read.

Black News: AKA Sorority Has Legal and Financial Issues

by Dr. Boyce Watkins, Syracuse University 

The women of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. are in the middle of a crazy legal situation, which has led to a judge in Chicago ordering the director of the sorority to bring financial records to the courthouse today. The Chicago Sun-Times is reporting that Cook County Judge Daniel Riley seemed concerned that for two days in a row, he requested that the person in charge of the organization’s financial records appear in court, and this was the second day that it didn’t happen.

"They didn’t bring me the person I asked for twice," the judge said.
On Tuesday, the group was found to be in contempt of court for not bringing its records custodian to the courthouse. The organization had instead sent an HR manager who said she didn’t have access to the financial records.
The legal wrangling has occurred as a result of a lawsuit filed by members of the group alleging improper spending by Barbara A. McKinzie, the group’s president. They are questioning, among other things, the $1 million in compensation she received from the organization.

The judge ruled on July 1 that 94-year old Julia Purnell, a former president and the oldest living former president of the organization, could inspect the financial records. Purnell, who sued to see the documents, said she would present her findings to the organization at the St. Louis meeting. Her attorneys are saying that the group refused to give her access to the records.

 

Click to read.

Sherri Shepherd and DL Hughley’s Incorrect Statements on HIV

by Dr. Boyce Watkins, AOL Black Voices

GLAAD, the Gay-Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation, has gone hard against ABC and "The View" about recent comments made by host Sherri Shepherd and guest host DL Hughley. On the show, which aired June 22, Shepherd and Hughley linked the high rate of HIV among straight women in the black community to black men being on the "downlow," or having sex with other men in private.

"When you look at the prevalence of HIV in the African-American community, it’s primarily young women who are getting it from men who are on the down-low," Hughley said. He mentioned this while discussing the recent FDA ban on gay and bi-sexual men donating blood.
"[African-American men] are having sex with men, and they’re not telling their girlfriends or their wives that they’re gay," said Shepherd. Three groups: GLAAD, the National Black Justice Coalition and the Black AIDS institute have put out full page ads in Variety, stating that the information shared on The View is inaccurate.

"The Centers for Disease Control has publicly disproven this myth. And since June 22, thousands of people have written to ABC, asking that The View provide correct information to viewers," the ad reads. "Unfortunately, those requests have been greeted with silence from both ABC and The View. When The View talks about these kinds of issues, people listen. And there’s a responsibility that comes with that."

Members of the scientific community are also backing the viewpoints of GLAAD and other groups who’ve protested The View.

Click to read.

Listen to the Mel Gibson Rampage – It’s unbelievable

 

Click here to listen to Mel Gibson’s angry words.  It’s kind of scary. 

Dr. Boyce Watkins: Whoopi, Why Are You Defending Mel Gibson Too?

by Dr. Boyce Watkins, Syracuse University 

Perhaps rather than going on the typical “my bad” racial campaign trail, Mel Gibson is trying a new tactic.  This one might be called the “Some of my best friends are black” approach.  In the latest development over Mel Gibson’s crazy racist rant in which he told his ex-girlfriend that it would be her fault if she were “raped by a pack of ni**ers,” Gibson is being defended by non other than Whoopi Goldberg.

Here are Goldberg’s words:

"I have had a long friendship with Mel. You can say he’s being a bonehead, but I can’t say he’s a racist having spent time with him in my house with my kids. Make no mistake (he’s not a racist)."

Click to read more.

Boyce Watkins and Bill Cosby On Al Sharpton’s “Keeping It Real” Show

Boyce Watkins and Bill Cosby On Al Sharpton’s “Keeping It Real” Show

Your Black News – 7/12/10

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  Oakland man arrested after child thrown in traffic

  By theGrio

  4:47 PM on 07/12/2010

  OAKLAND, Calif. (AP) – The child was hit by a car, but police say she escaped serious injury. She was taken to a hospital, where her condition is unknown…

  > MORE

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  President Obama: Relief work in Haiti must continue

  By theGrio

  4:30 PM on 07/12/2010

  WASHINGTON (AP) – Some officials, including former President Bill Clinton, have expressed frustration over the slow pace of the recovery…

  > MORE

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  Greene making first public speech before local NAACP

  By theGrio

  3:01 PM on 07/12/2010

  COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) – ‘Jobs, education and justice, the campaign for the general election,’ Greene said, when asked what he planned to discuss. ‘That’s what I’m focusing on right now.’…

  > MORE

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  Oscar Grant’s uncle rejects officer’s letter of apology

  By theGrio

  2:52 PM on 07/12/2010

  OAKLAND, Calif. (AP) – The uncle of an unarmed man fatally shot by a former transit police officer has harsh words to describe a letter of apology from the officer…

  > MORE

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  First lady touts childhood obesity initiative at NAACP

  By theGrio

  2:25 PM on 07/12/2010

  KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) – Michelle Obama says Americans need to change their eating habits to avoid producing the nation’s first generation of children who live shorter lives than their parents…

  > MORE

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  Vick restricted from travel as shooting case continues

  By theGrio

  2:11 PM on 07/12/2010

  TUCKER, Ga. (AP) – Vick missed his own golf tournament in Georgia and also did not make a scheduled appearance at a youth football camp in Raleigh, N.C., this past weekend…

  > MORE

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  Finish line in sight for US financial overhaul

  By theGrio

  2:04 PM on 07/12/2010

  WASHINGTON (AP) – While Obama would have preferred an earlier conclusion for the bill, its passage less than four months from the general election is as good as it can get politically…

  > MORE

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  ‘To Kill a Mockingbird’ 50 years later, right on race

  By Aysha Hussain

  1:14 PM on 07/12/2010

  theGRIO REPORT – It was a work of fiction that reflected the simmering reality of the times, mirroring a national consciousness, conflict and shame over race…

  > MORE

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  LeBron could mean millions for Miami tourism

  By theGrio

  12:32 PM on 07/12/2010

  MIAMI (AP) – The Miami Herald is reporting that LeBron James is giving South Florida a boost already…

  > MORE

Black News: Uganda Bombed While Spectators Watch World Cup Final: 63 Killed

 

In simultaneous bombings bearing the hallmarks of international terrorists, two explosions ripped through crowds watching the World Cup final in two places in Uganda’s capital late Sunday, killing 64 people, police said. One American was killed and several were wounded.

The deadliest attack occurred at a rugby club as people watched the game between Spain and the Netherlands on a large-screen TV outdoors. The second blast took place at an Ethiopian restaurant, where at least three Americans were wounded.

One American was killed in the blasts, said Joann Lockard, a spokeswoman for the U.S. Embassy in Kampala.

Kampala’s police chief said he believed Somalia’s most feared militantgroup, al-Shabab, could be responsible for the attack. Al-Shabab is known to have links with al-Qaida, and it counts militant veterans from the Iraq, Afghanistan and Pakistan conflicts among its ranks.

A head and legs were found at the rugby club, suggesting a suicide bomber may have been to blame, an AP reporter at the scene said.

At least three Americans — part of a church group from Pennsylvania — were wounded at the Ethiopian restaurant. One was Kris Sledge, 18, of Selinsgrove, Pennsylvania.

 

Click to read.

Black News: Jesse Jackson Says Dan Gilbert Treated LeBron Like a Runaway Slave

by Dr. Boyce Watkins 

The Rev. Jesse Jackson caused a stir this week by jumping into the public tirade of Cleveland Cavaliers owner Dan Gilbert against NBA star LeBron James. In very public comments this week, Gilbert chastised James for deciding to leave Cleveland to play for the Miami Heat. He defined James as a traitor and someone that we would not want our children to be like.
Apparently Rev. Jackson decided that he’d had enough. In a public statement of his own, Jackson said the following:
"He speaks as an owner of LeBron and not the owner of the Cleveland Cavaliers. His feelings of betrayal personify a slave master mentality. He sees LeBron as a runaway slave."
It was only a matter of time that someone made reference to the racial writing on the wall. With LeBron being an African American athlete and one of the most celebrated public figures in America today, many expected his decision to lead to a public uproar. What was not expected, however, was the decay in James’ public image that resulted from his move. He was not only criticized for leaving the fans who’d been so loyal to him over the past seven years, James was described as a narcissist for making his decision on a nationally-televised special.

Click to read

Dr Boyce Watkins on CNBC with Dr. Christopher Metzler

Dr Boyce Watkins on CNBC with Dr. Christopher Metzler

Steve Urkel/Jaleel White Accused of Domestic Violence

From YourBlackWorld.com

Jaleel White, better known as Steve Urkel from the television show, "Family Matters," was accused of beating his girlfriend, Bridget Hardy, who is also the mother of his 10-month old child.  She reported the abuse to the LAPD, stating that White punched her in her breast implants while they were on the highway driving in their car.

Click to read more.

Boyce Watkins and Chris Metzler Debate Wealth on CNBC

 

Watch Dr. Boyce Watkins and Christopher Metzler on CNBC – should the rich be taxed more than the poor?  Click here to watch

 

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Toddler Found Buried Under Concrete

South Carolina toddler Rodricus Williams was found dead when his body was discovered in a trash can buried under 400 pounds of concrete.  As if this is not horrific enough the boys father Roger Williams and his girlfriend Grace Nichole Trotman are suspected to be his killers, both have been charged with homicide by child abuse.

Black NFL Coach’s Son Arrested on Child Porn Charges

Jeremy Green, son of former NFL coach Dennis Green, has been arrested in Connecticut on a charge related to child pornography. Jeremy Green is also an ESPN analyst. He was picked up Thursday around 5 p.m. in a Southington hotel. He is charged with possession of child pornography, possession of narcotics and possession of drug paraphernalia.
He is being held on $750,000 bond and police are not releasing details of the warrant, which is now sealed. He has worked with ESPN since 2005.
Jeremy’s father, Dennis Green, was one of the most successful African American coaches in the history of the NFL. His 1998 run with the Minnesota Vikings led to a 15-1 record for the team, and the most points scored by any NFL team during any one season. The team made it to the NFC Championship game that year, led by Randy Moss and other great players the team had that year.

Click to read.

D. Wade Speaks About Lebron’s Decision

Dwayne Wade discusses how he feels about Lebron choosing Miami.

Dr. Boyce Watkins: LeBron James Chooses the Miami Heat

by Dr. Boyce Watkins, Syracuse University 

I hate to say "I told you so," but sometimes it’s just kind of fun to brag a little bit. As I wrote the other day, LeBron James made his announcement tonight that he is going to join up with Chris Bosh and Dwayne Wade with the Miami Heat. The announcement wasn’t a big surprise, since I presumed that LeBron would rather play with the greatest talent pool in the Eastern Conference rather than against it. There were some, however, who thought that teams like New York and New Jersey had a chance. No, they did not.
New York makes money and has a massive media market, but the Knicks have stained their organization’s reputation by showing that they don’t care much about winning. Overpaying mediocre players and not managing their team properly has made them appear as undesirable as the "Kentucky Celtics" were when Rick Pitino took over and tried to bring his entire college roster to the NBA with him.

Click to read

Woman Kills her child and eats his brains: Mental Health System on Trial

by Dr. Boyce Watkins

This week, a woman in Texas cut off the head of her three week old baby and ate part of his brain. What’s even more shocking about this terrible story is that she won’t get any jail time for it.

Otty Sanchez, a 34-year old, was found not guilty by reason of insanity in the death of her child, Scott Wesley Buchholz-Sanchez. Prosecutors accepted the plea deal after learning that the woman thought that the devil made her kill her child.

The baby was found in a bedroom with three of his toes chewed off, his head severed and his brain ripped out. Police are saying that the child’s mother ate the boy’s toes and a piece of the brain before stabbing herself in the chest and throat. In the 911 call made by her sister, Sanchez can be heard in the background screaming, “I didn’t wanna do it! He told me to!"

The AP has reported that after being examined by three different physicians, Sanchez has been declared to be legally insane. The county district attorney said that Sanchez repeatedly asked for help for her illness and didn’t receive it.

Obviously, this is one of the more shocking stories I’ve heard all year. The fact that this woman could do something so horrible to her child makes it easy to argue that she was probably insane. To have sent her to prison for murder would have reminded us just how simple-minded our justice system has become.

The fact that Sanchez asked for help repeatedly and didn’t receive it is also disturbing. For the protection of our children, perhaps it might make sense for us to make greater investments in our mental health system. Quite a few prison inmates are simply people with psychological problems who don’t deserve to be incarcerated.

My prayers go out to the Sanchez family and may Scott Wesley rest in peace.

Dr. Boyce Watkins is the founder of the Your Black World Coalition and the initiator of the National Conversation on Race. He is also the author of the book, "Black American Money. For more information, please visit BoyceWatkins.com.

A Player Whose Name Really Is "God’s Gift"

From Providence’s God Shammgod to Seattle’s Austen Powers to Alabama State’s Chief Kickingstallionsims, college basketball has featured dozens of players with memorable names.

By this time next year, we could have another name to add to the list.

Meet God’s Gift Achiuwa, a 6-foot-9 forward at Erie Community College who has already caught the attention of some high-profile Division I programsbecause of both his stellar play and unusual name. The Nigeria native’s father is a minister, so the first name he chose for his son is a reflection of the family’s devout religious beliefs.

[Photos: Latest news in college hoops]

"His name is the first thing that anyone asks about when they meet him," Erie coach Alex Nwora said by phone. "Everyone thought it was a nickname or something, but that’s his real name. Fortunately, he’s a religious kid, so he likes it."

 

Click to read more.

Dr. Boyce: Reasons for Getting Rid of Michael Vick

by Dr. Boyce Watkins

I’ve always defended Michael Vick .  I’ve never supported him because I liked him as a human being or thought he was a good person.  Most of my support for Vick has been driven by my commitment to fairness, and the fact that the punishment must fit the crime.  When you go back in time, it’s not uncommon for black male athletes to be treated like animals when they make the same mistakes that are made by the rest of us, and I just won’t have it.  When Michael Vick did his time for dog fighting, I was convinced that he’d learned his lesson and was ready to become one of the great comeback stories in all of sport.

Click to read.

Dr. Boyce Watkins and Rev. Al Sharpton Discuss Michael Steele, Tyler Perry, and Other Current Events Pt. 4

Dr. Boyce Watkins and Rev. Al Sharpton Discuss Michael Steele, Tyler Perry, and Other Current Events

Dr. Boyce Watkins and Rev. Al Sharpton Discuss Michael Steele, Tyler Perry, and Other Current Events Pt. 5

Dr. Boyce Watkins and Rev. Al Sharpton Discuss Michael Steele, Tyler Perry, and Other Current Events

Dr. Boyce Watkins and Rev. Al Sharpton Discuss Michael Steele, Tyler Perry, and Other Current Events Pt. 6

Dr. Boyce Watkins and Rev. Al Sharpton Discuss Michael Steele, Tyler Perry, and Other Current Events

Dr. Boyce Watkins and Rev. Al Sharpton Discuss Michael Steele, Tyler Perry, and Other Current Events Pt. 2

Dr. Boyce Watkins and Rev. Al Sharpton Discuss Michael Steele, Tyler Perry, and Other Current Events

Dr. Boyce Watkins and Rev. Al Sharpton Discuss Michael Steele, Tyler Perry, and Other Current Events Pt. 3

Dr. Boyce Watkins and Rev. Al Sharpton Discuss Michael Steele, Tyler Perry, and Other Current Events

Dr. Boyce Watkins and Rev. Al Sharpton Discuss Michael Steele, Tyler Perry, and Other Current Events Pt. 1

Dr. Boyce Watkins and Rev. Al Sharpton Discuss Michael Steele, Tyler Perry, and Other Current Events

Black Women Finding Jobs Again

Black Women Get Good News about Unemployment Again

• Black women have some reason to celebrate amid the dismal employment numbers in our economy. In … Read More
• By Boyce Watkins, PhD on Jul 4th 2010 9:41AM | Comments (0)

Press Rewind — Hollywood’s Racial Miscastings, 30 Ways to Sign LeBron + More

• Hollywood has a history of questionable casting choices when it comes to race. The recent … Read More
• By Journey Ade on Jul 3rd 2010 5:30PM | Comments (1)

Dave Chappelle’s Strange Behavior on an Airplane: What’s Up Dave?

• What’s the deal with Dave Chappelle? According to TMZ, Chapelle was reportedly acting strange on a … Read More
• By Boyce Watkins, PhD on Jul 3rd 2010 4:18PM | Comments (8)

Rick Ross Responds to Lawsuit Filed by Drug Dealer Ricky Ross

• The rapper Rick Ross has finally decided to respond to the $10 million lawsuit filed by Freeway … Read More
• By Boyce Watkins, PhD on Jul 3rd 2010 3:50PM | Comments (3)

Snapshot: Janet Jackson Shows Up & Out At 2010 Essence Music Festival

• Janet Jackson showed her ass at the Louisiana Superdome last night. Literally. The Grammy … Read More
• By Karu F. Daniels on Jul 3rd 2010 12:12PM | Comments (9)

What’s Wrong with Dave Chappelle?

by Dr. Boyce Watkins, AOL Black Voices

What’s the deal with Dave Chappelle? According to TMZ, Chapelle was reportingly acting strange on a private jet, so much so that the jet had to make an emergency landing in Pittsburgh. Their source is stating that the flight was headed from New Jersey to Ohio and that Chappelle "freaked out" refusing to put on his seatbelt.

The source also says that Chappelle repeatedly walked into the cockpit, asking the pilot how much longer the flight would be, and even grabbed the pilot’s arms. That is when it was allegedly determined that Chappelle was a safety risk, and the flight was grounded.
TMZ then claims that after landing, Chappelle checked into a hotel. However, sources at the hotel are claiming that Dave told the employees that he wanted to rent a car to go back to Ohio, but that he didn’t remember where he lived.

I’m not sure what the deal is with Dave Chappelle, one of the most talented and privileged comedians in America. He had the world at his feet, with a hit show and a $50 million contract to do what he does best. It does appear, however, that there is something inside Chappelle that simply can’t handle fame.

 

click to read