Black Entertainment, Money, Style and Beauty Blogs - Black Voices

Heather Ellis Takes the Plea Deal: Dr. Boyce Breakdown

Boyce Watkins, PhD — 2009-11-20T21:00:00+00:00

Filed under: News, Politics, Race and Civil Rights

Reports are stating that Heather Ellis, the woman who faced up to 15-years in prison in an incident that started with cutting in line at a Walmart, has taken a plea deal from the prosecutor.

According to the terms of the deal, Ellis will plead guilty to disturbing the peace and resisting arrest. She will also serve a year of unsupervised probation, attend an anger management course and serve four days in jail before the end of the year. Also, if she stays out of trouble for the year, the charges will be sealed and the arrest will not be on her permanent record.I don't have a statement on the outcome yet, as some of you know that I held a rally in Kennett, MO on behalf of the Ellis family. I was surprised to see this outcome, but there is a part of me that is pleased that this is over. The challenge, at this point however, is that while this is over for Heather Ellis, there are tens of thousands of other African Americans being devastated by a justice system that uses prosecutor intimidation to achieve its goals. I fully intend to continue pushing for a Department of Justice Investigation, since this case was always about more than Heather Ellis.

As of this moment, I simply plan to meet with my legal team, think things through and then discuss the issue at a later date. This has been draining.

Dr. Boyce Watkins is a Professor at Syracuse University. To have Dr. Boyce commentary delivered to your email, please click here.

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It Ain't Easy Being Green...During the Holidays

Nwenna Kai — 2009-11-20T19:19:00+00:00

Filed under: Holiday Season

Now that the holidays are coming up, I always get asked the question, so what do you eat? It's funny how much our diets and eating choices encompass our social activities. I am often surprised that just because I choose not to eat meat and instead consume a mostly raw or living-foods diet, others think my eating experience is limited, especially around the holidays.

So for those who don't eat meat or meat products or who have also chosen to eat a mostly raw foods diet, don't give up just because the holidays are right around the corner. You don't have to fast that day or avoid your family. You have more options than you realize.

I come from one of those African American families where we have about 30 relatives and friends or more over the house and one person, or one woman (usually my mother), slaves over a stove for days preparing a meal for everyone. I never found this to be a gratifying experience, and I'm sure my mother didn't either, but tradition can make us feel guilty at times.

Being the "green sheep" of the family, I'm always offering up new suggestions for how we can spend our holidays. At the same time, I'm always trying to find ways to counter all the pestering I get from my family. Even after years of not consuming meat, my grandmother still asks, "You don't eat fish either?" or "You're not going to have turkey for Thanksgiving?".

Here are some of my suggestions from years of experience:

o. Eat before you leave. You can always nourish yourself by making your own dinner and eating it before you leave your house. That way you won't be tempted, and you don't have to be pestered by the all questions about why you are not eating.

o. Ask the family to do a potluck this year. Potlucks are great because it takes the pressure off the person fixing the meal for an entire extended family, lends diversity to the holiday meal and it also allows you to include items on the menu that you can eat.

o. Go out to eat or take food home. Most vegetarian, vegan or raw-food restaurants offer holidays meals to go. You're supporting restaurants that cater to your food choices as well as honoring your health. When I owned my restaurant, we offered Thanksgiving and Christmas meals for our clients as well as whole pies. Most of my clients used to tell me how they shared the pies with family members who didn't know that it was an organic raw pie.

o. Invite the family over to your house and still do potluck. This way they are on your territory and they would probably feel a bit uncomfortable pestering you and asking you a bunch of repetitive questions.

o. Have a serious sit-down with the family members who pick on you about what you eat. Explain to them that you make your health your first priority and your diet encompasses most of your healthier choices. Also, offer to educate them if they are interested. Share books, recipes and even go to a class together. This is perfect bonding time for the holidays.

o. Do not persuade, cajole, or force anyone you love to eat like you. Only if they ask you about your choices, should you then go ahead and educate them about your experience. They deserve respect as well.

o. This is a good one. Make your best vegetarian, vegan or raw-food meal and don't tell anyone that it's vegetarian, vegan or raw. Food is 90 percent psychological. If it's a really good recipe, and you don't tell them its meatless, they probably won't know.

o. Leave the labels alone. I've stopped telling people I'm a raw foodist. It has a bad connotation to it, and it limits you. People who eat meat don't label themselves as carnivores, so don't label yourself.

So if you are the "green sheep" of the family and you always find yourself fumbling over how to spend the holidays with your family, then take some tips from me on how to have a extremely grateful and enjoyable holiday with your family and friends over turkey or mock turkey, pumpkin pie, or live-pumpkin pie, mac and cheese or coconut mac and cheese. Enjoy the plethora of options.

To get you started, here are some recipes from my holiday recipe book, 'Nwenna Kai's Holiday Recipes':

Persimmon Nog
3 persimmons, peeled and seeds removed
2 cups almonds, soaked for one hour
3 cups water
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
1 vanilla bean
1 banana (to add to the thickness)
5 large pitted dates

Blend the almonds, dates, and water until creamy and smooth in a blender. Strain the liquid through a nut-milk bag, cheesecloth or a strainer. Save the pulp for another recipe. Pour the almond milk back into the blender. While blender is running, add the persimmons, nutmeg, cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, vanilla bean and banana.

Alive Pumpkin Pie
Pie Crust
2 cups dates, pitted
2 cups almonds
Process dates and almonds in a food processor. Take the sticky dough and press into a pie pan.

Pumpkin pie filling
2 cups fresh pumpkin; seeded, peeled and cubed
1 cup young Thai coconut meat
1/3 cup water from a young coconut
1/2 cup soaked and pitted dates, chopped small by hand
2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
1/2 cup walnuts, finely ground
1/2 cup almonds, finely ground
1/2 cup soaked raisins
1/2 vanilla bean, ground (optional)

Puree the pumpkin in a food processor. Add the coconut meat, water, dates pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla bean and mix. Then stir in the ground nuts and pour into your pie crust. Refrigerate for one hour and serve.

Nwenna Kai is the author of 'The Goddess of Raw Foods,' which is available for purchase at www.amazon.com and the FREE e-book 'Nwenna Kai's Holiday Recipes.' You can get the e-book by signing up for her e-newsletter at www.the-guide-to-raw-foods.com. Kai is the previous owner of Taste of the Goddess Cafe, one of L.A.'s pioneering organic raw-food cafes. Visit her website at www.nwennakai.com and her blog at www.theguidetorawfoods.com/blogspot.com.

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Diabetic Holiday Cooking With the Diabetic Diva

Elizabeth Mwanga — 2009-11-20T19:08:00+00:00

Filed under: Holiday Season

In 2007, I was diagnosed with acute type 1 diabetes. I was approximately 200 pounds, and had extremely poor eating habits. I've always been a foodie, and being diagnosed with diabetes was both scary, and depressing. I was wondering if I'd ever be able to enjoy a decent meal again.

Taking matters into my own hands, I decided to learn how to cook for myself. I am exploring the wonderful world of braising, roasting and, gasp, veggies.It's been an enlightening, fun, delicious ride, and after shedding 100 pounds and 18 sizes, I am feeling and looking better than ever. Most important, thanks to a healthy diet and exercise regimen, I am no longer insulin dependent.

Cooking and entertaining during the holidays can be tricky, especially for diabetics or people with nutritional or weight concerns. I, the Diva Diabetic, am giving you a sample of my easy-to-prepare meals that can work fabulously for entertaining, a knock-out spread that will wow your guests and satisfy your every holiday craving without the guilt, of course.

* The Diva Diabetic's recipes are: complex carb-free, refined-sugar free and high in vitamins and protein.

Diva Diabetic Quick Tips:

- Most diabetics should eat no more than 45 grams of carbs per meal (a bit more for those who live a particularly active lifestyle). I try to eat between 30-40 grams per meal, to be on the safe side.

-The key to staying within a healthy carb count is portion size. Pay attention to labels, and don't overeat, as going over portion sizes and carb limits will spike your blood sugar.

- The holidays can be challenging, as food is plentiful, so if you do happen to overindulge on one meal, remember to scale back on your other two meals of the day. Eat less, and be mindful of your carb count.

- Exercise. Diabetics should exercise at least two to three times per week. Studies have shown that exercise reduces blood sugar levels. It can be as simple as jogging up and down stairs, power-walking to the subway or train station, or hitting the treadmill before work.

THEME: TRADITIONAL WITH A TWIST!

Hors D'oeuvres:

Cucumber & Smoked Salmon Bites
(5 servings, 4 bites per person)
approx. 1 gram of carbs per serving

Ingredients:
One whole large cucumber, peeled and sliced into approx 20 rounds
1/4 lb. smoked salmon, thinly sliced
1 oz. creme fraiche
Finely chopped chives, for garnish
Black pepper, to taste

Place cucumber slices on a decorative serving plate. On top of the cucumber, place one thin slice of smoked salmon, a small dollop of creme fraiche, and sprinkle with a touch of black pepper. Garnish each piece with chopped chives for a fancy finish.

STARTER: Roasted-Pumpkin Soup
(6 servings)
approximately 9 grams carbs per serving

Ingredients:
1 medium pumpkin (about 3-4 lbs.)
1 tbsp fresh thyme
1 small onion, finely diced
1 clove garlic, finely minced
1 small apple, peeled and finely diced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, finely minced or 1 tsp ground ginger
1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1 cup water
4 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon butter
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped fresh chives for garnish

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Cut pumpkin in half lengthwise, remove seeds and place on foil-lined baking sheet, cut side down. Roast in oven for approx. 40 minutes until brown and soft. Remove from oven and let cool for 10 minutes. Scoop out pumpkin center (discarding the shell) and place in large bowl.

In a large soup pot, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil and 1 tsp butter; saute the diced onion, apple, minced onion with the thyme, ginger, nutmeg, salt and pepper for 10 minutes, until soft. Add the roasted pumpkin, chicken broth and water and mix well. Turn heat to high, cover and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes. Turn off heat, remove from stove and let soup cool down fer several minutes. Remove soup from pot and blend in a food processor or blender in small batches. Return blended soup to pot and reheat over low flame. Taste for seasoning and add salt and pepper if desired. Divide into small soup bowls or mugs and serve immediately.

ENTREE: Orange-Glazed Herb Turkey Breast
(6-8 servings)
approximately 13 grams carbs per serving

Ingredients:
2 boneless turkey breast halves, approx. 3 lbs each (skin on)
1 orange (grated, peel and juiced)
2 cloves garlic, very finely minced or grated
2 tablespoons rosemary, finely chopped
2 tablespoons thyme, finely chopped
6 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
**additional rosemary and thyme sprigs to line bottom of roasting pan**
***turkey broth or water to coat bottom of pan, if needed***

For glaze:
Juice of 3 oranges
1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
4 tablespoons Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon rosemary, finely chopped
2 teaspoon fresh thyme, finely chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon. olive oil

Thaw turkey breasts in refrigerator. When defrosted, wash and pat dry. Mix juice of one orange, 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt and pepper. Drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil at the bottom of roasting pan. Place whole sprigs of rosemary and thyme at bottom of roasting pan. Place turkey breasts on top of thyme and rosemary in the roasting pan, and drizzle with marinade mixture. Cover with aluminum foil or plastic wrap and let sit in refrigerator overnight.

Preheat oven to 400 degrees, and remove turkey from the refrigerator. Mix chopped garlic, rosemary, thyme, 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, pepper and grated rind of 4 oranges in shallow bowl. (Save the oranges for the orange glaze.) With a paring or butter knife, gently loosen the skin of the turkey breast, and evenly stuff the area between the turkey meat and loosened skin with herb mixture. Drizzle the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the turkey breasts and place in oven.

While turkey is baking, create the orange glaze. In a saucepan, on medium-low flame, pour balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, rosemary, thyme, salt and pepper and reduce for about 10 minutes, until vinegar thickens into a syrupy consistency. Turn off flame, and add the juice of the 3 oranges. Mix well to combine flavors.

After the turkey has been roasting for 20 minutes, brush on glaze evenly to coat both turkey breasts (use all of the glaze). Add a splash of turkey broth or water to roasting pan if bottom of the pan begins to dry. Continue roasting the turkey for an additional 20-25 minutes, until cooked through, juicy and browned to perfection.

To serve, let turkey breasts cool for at least 5 minutes. Each turkey breast should render 8 slices. Slice meat on a bias for an impressive presentation.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts With Pine Nuts
(6 servings)
approx. 6 gr. cabs per serving!

Ingredients:
1 lb. Brussels sprouts, washed and dried. Remove discolored or hanging leave/s
3 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar
1 clove finely minced garlic
1 teaspoon of thyme leaves
1 teaspoon olive oil
Kosher Salt and black pepper, to taste
1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted for 1 minute in a dry frying pan (watch carefully so they don't burn...just lightly brown!)

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Spread brussel sprouts evenly on a baking sheet. Toss with balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic, thyme, salt and pepper. Roast in oven for 15 minutes, tossing with heat resistant spoon, midway through. Remove from oven, place on a serving platter and sprinkle with toasted pine nuts.

Winter Green Salad With Goat Cheese
(6 servings)
approx 10 grams carbs per serving

Ingredients:
1 package mesclun green-salad mix
1/4 cup of chopped walnuts
1 large green apple, sliced
1 small roll of soft goat cheese

For Dressing:
One lemon
One orange
3 tablespoons of olive oil
1/2 tsp dried thyme, or 1 teaspoon fresh thyme finely chopped
Kosher salt and pepper, to taste

Place salad mix in a salad bowl or platter. Make dressing: Grate the rind of the orange and lemon into a small bowl. Be careful not to grate down to the bitter white pith. Cut lemon and orange and juice both. Sprinkle with a touch of salt and pepper, and whisk in olive oil until fully combined. Sprinkle dressing over the salad greens. Crumble the goat cheese and place apple slices over the salad and mix well. Garnish with the chopped walnuts.

DESSERT: (Yes, Diabetics can enjoy dessert, too!) Spice Filled Pears
(8 servings)
Approx 13 gr. carbs per serving

Ingredients:
4 large pears, sliced in half, core removed
1 orange
4 tablespoons softened butter
2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 teaspoon ground cloves
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1 oz. dry roasted mixed chopped nuts

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Place pears skin-side down in shallow baking dish, and squeeze juice of orange over each pear slice liberally and evenly. In a bowl, use clean hand to toss nuts with the softened butter, ground ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg and ground cloves, until well combined. Stuff each pear half with spice-nut mix; put in oven and bake for 20-30 minutes, until brown and bubbly. Remove from oven and serve warm on a festive dish.

Holiday Hot Cocoa
(4 servings)
approximately 12 grams carbs per serving

Ingredients:
2 cups whole milk
2 cups light cream
4 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon Cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg

Combine all ingredients in a saucepan, mixing well. Heat cocoa through on medium-low flame until very warm but not boiling. Serve in festive holiday mugs, with an extra sprinkle of cinnamon and nutmeg on top of each.

Elizabeth Mwanga is an independent television and film producer. In 2008, she formed The IiN TV Productions, a New York City-based production company that develops original reality programs. As CEO and executive producer, she is currently developing nine reality docu-series. The first IiN TV Productions pilot, 'COUGARS: NYC,' was filmed in late 2008. In addition to her television and film work, Mwanga owns and operates IMANA MUSIC/BLACK FAMILY PUBLISHING, a music catalogue that owns over 500 sample-free, pre-cleared music titles.

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The Single-Parent Holiday Guide

Angela Bronner Helm — 2009-11-20T18:14:00+00:00

Filed under: Holiday Season

Whether you are just separated or have divorced for seven years, the holiday season presents some unique circumstances for single parents. Divorce, death or mutual separation can be difficult, but during the holiday season, when you're supposed to be happy and surrounded by family, times can just be plain tough. Whether you have joint custody and miss the pitter-patter of little feet underfoot or are doing it by yourself and feel financially stretched, the key to making it work is to be open to new things and creative in fostering new traditions.

BV presents10 surefire tips to make the holidays for single parents memorable for you and yours.

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Single Parents Holiday Survival Guide

Accept Change
Life after a separation, divorce or death is never going to quite be the same. You now have to share your children with their other parent (or accept that the deceased parent is no longer there.) This may take some time getting used to. It's best to use whatever means you have to accept this whether that's support groups, therapy, prayer or good friends.

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Create New Family Traditions
For the last 10 years you have eaten Christmas brunch with your in-laws but this is no longer an option. Yet, children thrive on ritual, so it may be time to make up some new holiday traditions (i.e. going to the local Thanksgiving parade or even baking cookies after opening gifts). If your children are old enough, include their ideas in your plans.

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Have Your Holiday Early
Don't have the kids for an upcoming holiday? Why not celebrate Thanksgiving, Christmas or Kwanzaa a week early complete with all the decoration, food and yes, gifts? Invite friends, family and neighbors and do it up. No, it's not the same as the day of, but it's really about the sentiment and the company anyway.

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Get Some Company
The holidays can sometimes be unbearably lonely, especially without the pitter patter of little feet. If your ex has the children on a significant holiday, make sure you get with other folks to continue the festivities. Join your family, coworkers or friends or seek out other singletons through a single parents group.

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Speak well of your ex
Acceptance of new circumstances goes a long way, and you've got to model for your children what a mature, loving adult looks like. That means keeping your not-so-nice thoughts about your ex in check. In fact, you should encourage a good relationship and reassure your child that it's OK to accept his or her new family -- there's plenty of love to go around.

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Don't spoil your children
As the non-custodial parent, it is easy to make up for lost time (and guilt) with "things." Yet the most meaningful reason for a visit with your children is to bond with them. Love don't cost a thing. Ice skating, bike riding, fishing or snuggling up and watching movies means everything in the world to children -- as long as it's with you!

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Mind your budget
With most separations, divorces or even deaths standards of living decrease for single parents. Be mindful of your budget. This means setting up a spending plan and sticking to it during the holidays. Tried and true tactics like shopping for gifts off season, comparing prices online and staying within the budget ensures that you have money for a rainy day.

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Preserve relationships
If you absolutely love your father -in-law or feel closer to your ex's sister than you do to your own, maintain those relationships. Continue to invite your ex's family to significant events in your child's life like recitals and basketball games. It is great for your children to see you continue to love their family. However, do not use your relationship with your in-laws (or children for that matter) to communicate with your ex in any way.

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Pick Your Battles
Suppose your ex and his new wife had your 5-year-old out all day snowball fighting with that small jacket on? Or your daughter's hair wasn't quite combed the way you like it? Unless it's posing a serious threat to your child's health, it's best not to make an "issue" out of everything the other parent does. In other words, roll with the punches. It will make everyone's life a little easier -- including your child's.

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Do a Joint Holiday Event
This may take some time, and for some, it's just not feasible, but we've all heard of those families who continue to get together even after a split (hello Bruce, Demi and Ashton!) This is probably best if each partner has moved on and so do not attempt this unless you feel truly ready. Maybe start with a small tree trimming before going all out with a sit down dinner. What a gift to give your children!

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Black Friday Doorbuster Deals

Alexis Stodghill — 2009-11-20T17:56:00+00:00

Filed under: News, Coupons, Savings

Black Friday Doorbuster Deals are designed to get people into stores early in the morning on that fateful day. As you were planning to get to stores early anyway to take advantage of Black Friday 2009 deals, what is the purpose of doorbuster deals? Doorbuster deals are really just another way for stores, such as Target and Walmart, to cut their pricing and get you to spend. So which Black Friday Doorbuster Deals are for you? Let's take a look.

At Gamestop: "GameStop is opening at 6am on Black Friday featuring a few doorbuster deals, including console bundles and Call of Duty World at War for $39.99. If you are someone who enjoys buying pre-owned video games, there are also some weekend specials on used games and systems." (Bfads.net)

At Staples: "Free Canon photo printer with purchase of any digital camera (after rebate), [and more items marked with *]." (Blackfriday.info)

At Walmart: "Between 5-10 a.m. the day after Thanksgiving the already-discounted Magnavox Blu-ray player drops from $198 to $128 (a BDP-S300 might still be a better value), 50-inch Samsung plasma of unspecified resolution is only $798 (720p, bet on it), and Xbox 360 + Guitar Hero III & wireless guitar pack (all the real plastic guitar aficionados have moved on to Rock Band 2) drops in for $199. Slightly lower profile are a $398 HP desktop PC and $175 gas grill but c'mon, we all know it's the high definition (it'll be a lonely holiday without the suddenly too-good for us Vizio) that will have you shivering outside your local retailer with the soccer moms and other deal hunters." (Engadet.com)

At Macy's: "We've just posted over 100 doorbuster specials from Macy's Black Friday ad. Macy's opens at 5:00am this year. The ad also features a WOW! Pass coupon for an extra 15% off selected items, as well as a $10 off $25 coupon." (Blackfriday.gottadeal.com)

And many more. A quick search of the multitude of stores on the sites listed above will yield even more Black Friday Doorbuster Deals for you to take advantage of. But are Black Friday Doorbuster Deals all they are being promoted to be? In other words, will it really be worth it for you to get up at 4 a.m. to make it to a 5 a.m. line to brave a raving 6 a.m. crowd? Surprisingly, retail experts say no. CNN.com reports:

Here's a Black Friday reality check: Of the hordes of pre-dawn shoppers who line up for hours outside stores on the day after Thanksgiving, most will not bag the best bargains that appear in merchants' circulars.

Look at the fine print that appears next to an advertised "doorbuster deal" at the bottom of the page in this year's circulars.

It will either say "While supplies last," "Minimum 2 per store," "No rainchecks" or "All items are available in limited quantities."

A quick scan through a few of this year's Black Friday circulars show quantities as low as a "minimum of 5 per store" on some models of large plasma and HDTVs and popular brands of home appliances such as a washer-dryer pair.

Should Black Friday deal hunters feel cheated? Yes they should, say some retail experts.

"It's a sleazy practice," said Craig Johnson, retailing expert and president of retail consulting group Customer Growth Partners.

So weigh the benefits vs. the potential pitfalls of seeking these Black Friday Doorbuster Deals. It is possible that, given all the early sales these stores are having, you can more realistically find what you are looking for now -- even if it's at a slightly higher price. You might even be able to get a comparable item at a better price by dealing directly with online-only retailers like Amazon.com. Now that is money smart -- not to mention a savings of your time and peace of mind.

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Idris Elba Added to Another Comic Book Film - 'Thor'

Wilson Morales — 2009-11-20T17:50:00+00:00

Filed under: News

Already set to play a character in Dark Castle's DC Comics adaptation 'The Losers,' British actor Idris Elba has been tapped to join in on another comic book film coming to the big screen.

The Hollywood Reporter states that Elba will play Heimdall, the guardian of Asgard in 'Thor,' Marvel Studios' film about the Norse god of thunder.

Also starring in the film are Chris Hemsworth, who will play Thor; Tom Hiddleston, who will play Loki; and Natalie Portman, who is the love interest Jane Foster.

Samuel L. Jackson is expected to make a cameo as Nick Frost to tie the film into 'The Avengers,' much like the cameo he made in 'Iron Man.'

Kenneth Branagh is directing the adaptation of the Marvel comic, with shooting scheduled to begin in mid-January in Manhattan Beach, Calif.

Paramount Pictures will release the film May 20, 2011.

Elba was seen earlier this year in Screen Gems' 'Obsessed,' opposite Beyonce Knowles and Ali Larter. He will be seen next in Feb.Beyonce Obsessed movie in Screen Gems' heist thriller 'Taken,' which stars Chris Brown, T.I., Matt Dillon, Paul Walker, Michael Ealy, Hayden Christensen, Zoe Saldana and Jay Hernandez.

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Bold, Black & British

Bold, Black & British: Notable Actors From U.K.
American movie lovers have become avid fans of acclaimed actors such as (l-r) Delroy Lindo, Thandie Newton and Idris Elba. But there's plenty more from where -- Great Britain -- that comes from. Check them out.

Getty Images / Bauer-Griffin

BHM MEDIA NEW

While on a family vacation with Tom and Suri, Katie Holmes hit the beach near Rio de Janeiro in this blue one piece.

bauergriffinonline.com

Rihanna hits the stage at the NFL Pepsi Smash Super Bowl Concert in a pair of knee-high black boots. What do you think about the pop singer's look?

Kevin C. Cox, Getty Images for NFL

Mischa Barton wore this Elie Saab couture mint green gown to the Fashion Dinner for Aids at the Pavillon d'Armenonville. Is Mischa's look a hit or miss?

Eric Ryan, Getty Images

Heroes star Hayden Panettiere arrives at the NBC Universal Pre-Super Bowl event at Portofino in a black tuxedo jacket and dress with a plunging neckline. Is the Hollywood starlet hot or not?

Gerardo Mora, Getty Images

Diane Kruger wore Nina Ricci for the Fashion Dinner for Aids at the Pavillon d'Armenonville. Is her dress a mess or amazing?

Eric Ryan, Getty Images

Kim Kardashian opted for this floral strapless Tracey Reese dress for the 2009 Moves Magazine Super Bowl Party at The Venue Club. Let us know what you think about Kim's look.

Tim Boyles, Getty Images

Burlesque beauty Dita Von Teese wore an ice blue Elie Saab (left) satin dress at the Fashion Dinner for Aids at the Pavillon d'Armenonville.

Dominique Charriau, WireImage

Spanish actress Penelope Cruz appeared at the the 2009 Goya Cinema Awards in Madrid in this black lace Chanel gown. Is it a win or a loss?

Carlos Alvarez, Getty Images

Amy Adams wore a Jasmine di Milo gold and silver sequin backless dress and Christian Louboutin heels to the 61st Annual Directors Guild of America Awards.

Frazer Harrison, Getty Images

Being thousands of miles away didn't stop Meryl Streep from celebrating the inauguration. The actress wore this Catherine Malandrino flag dress to the Paris premiere of Doubt.

Julien Hekimian, WireImage

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White Women Wear Weaves Too! (And Other Revelations)

Patrice Grell Yursik — 2009-11-20T17:46:00+00:00

Filed under: Weaves & Extensions, Trends

If you have questions about weaves, wigs, sew ins, clip ins, extensions and/or lacefronts -- I sure hope you were watching Tyra today! On today's show, titled Tyra's Fake Hair Academy, Ms. Banks broke it down like only she could. And together with the as always, refreshingly candid Meghan McCain, they revealed a not-so-secret secret about hair extensions.

Women of ALL ethnicities wear them.

I believe Tyra is right, there is a perception (for some strange reason) that black women are the only ones who wear store-bought hair. So. Not. The. Case. Jessica Simpson and Paris Hilton both sell their own brands of clip in extensions! Most of the celebrities you see on television -- regardless of race -- are probably wearing some kind of hair assistance.

Did you watch Tyra's Fake Hair Academy today? Did you learn anything you didn't already know? Share your thoughts!

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Health Care Bill Update, Congressional Black Caucus & Oprah: Business News

Alexis Stodghill — 2009-11-20T17:32:00+00:00

Filed under: Personal Finance, News, The Economy, Banking, Credit Card, Budget, Education

Black Caucus Stalls Finance Overhaul
In one of the clearest examples of how the weak economy is overtaking Obama administration priorities, the Congressional Black Caucus forced the House to shelve its revamp of financial-sector regulation for two weeks. [The Wall Street Journal]

Oldest Black Newspaper Marks 125th Year With Gala For 1,250 Guests
The Philadelphia Tribune, the nation's oldest and the Greater Philadelphia region's largest newspaper serving the African-American community, will celebrate its 125th year on Saturday with a gala for more than 1,250 people. [All Headline News]

Three States Set New Unemployment Records
Three states set new record unemployment rates in October, according to data released today by the U.S. Labor Department. [CNBC]

Motivational Tips that Every Young Career Woman Needs
Most young college women have a difficult time turning their dream careers into reality because they are stuck in a world of "cannot", "shouldn't", and "don't even think about its". Accepting this cause those individuals to become comfortable in that neighborhood, settling right into the retirement house of "I quit!" before they even try. Well, cry no more. [Clutch Magazine]

Senate health care bill creates new marriage penalty
Senate Democrats' health care bill would create a new marriage penalty by imposing a tax on individuals who make $200,000 annually but hitting married couples making just $50,000 more. [Washington Times]

How to Best Dispute a Medical Debt
Start with the collection agency. Try to negotiate a settlement with them. Offer to begin a monthly payment plan that you can truly afford. Alternatively, if you can afford a lump sump payment to knock out the bill, even better - because you'll also be better positioned to improve your credit rating. [The Money Coach]

To Lower Interest Rates, Citi Customers Must Spend
For Citibank credit card holders, there is one way to escape the bank's rate hikes currently under way: Meet a monthly spending requirement. [Yahoo News]

Oprah Winfrey Cries About Ending Talk Show
The media mogul teared up Friday morning as officially announced that she was ending her syndicated talk show in 2011. [Business Insider]

MillerCoors Gives $1.3M to Fund for Black Colleges
MillerCoors -- the North American marketing arm of Colorado's Molson Coors Brewing Co. -- said Wednesday it has donated $1.3 million to support 47 historically black public colleges and universities. [Denver Business Journal]

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Confronting the Staggering Toll of STDs in the African American Community

Dr. Kevin Fenton, CDC — 2009-11-20T16:16:00+00:00

Filed under: Sexual Health

African-Americans continue to bear a greater burden of sexually transmitted diseases (STD) than any other racial or ethnic group in the United States. A CDC report released this week shows that, just as is the case for the HIV epidemic, African-Americans are disproportionately impacted by other STDs. Both the number of STD cases reported in 2008, and rates of all three nationally reported STDs (chlamydia, gonorrhea and syphilis) are highest among African-Americans. One of the most staggering statistics revealed in the report is that gonorrhea rates among blacks are now 20 times that of whites. Additionally, while blacks make up about 12 percent of the U.S. population, almost half of all chlamydia and syphilis cases were among blacks.

While black men and women share the burden of STDs, black women continue to face the most severe health consequences. This is of great concern because of the potential impact on the future of our community. Untreated chlamydia and gonorrhea can rob a teenage girl or young woman of her ability to have children later in life, and untreated syphilis in pregnant women can result in infant death or cause severe physical or mental developmental disabilities.

It is vital that communities disproportionately affected by STDs, as well as their community leaders and health providers, are aware of the disparities. Testing, knowledge of infection, and treatment of those with an STD and their sex partners are critical to reducing the number of infections that occur each year. Many STDs have no symptoms, so one of the first steps for those at risk is to get tested and find out if they are infected. I encourage health care providers to routinely take a sexual health history from each of their adolescent and adult patients and follow up with appropriate counseling, vaccination, testing, and, if needed, treatment of both patients and sex partners.

There are also many actions that individuals within our community can take to prevent STD infection, including:

o. Abstinence and reduction of number of sex partners: The most reliable ways to avoid infection with an STD are to abstain from sex or to be in a long-term mutually monogamous relationship with an uninfected partner.

o. Correct and consistent use of condoms: Consistent and correct use of the male latex condom reduces the risk of HIV and other STD transmission.

o. Screening: Testing and knowledge of infection are vital to reducing the continued consequences of STDs and HIV. Though most STDs can be easily diagnosed and treated, many cases go undetected because they have no noticeable symptoms. Those at risk need to ask their providers about the need for testing, so that if they are infected, they and their sex partners can receive appropriate treatment and care to protect their health and avoid complications.

o. Immunizations: Vaccines are available for the prevention of two common sexually transmitted viral infections: hepatitis B and several strains of human papillomavirus (HPV) that can cause genital warts and cervical cancer. Receiving recommended hepatitis B and HPV immunizations can almost completely prevent these infections.

It is important to confront the issues that contribute to higher infection rates for African-Americans, and take action to prevent the spread of STDs. As a community and as a nation interested in protecting and enhancing the health of all of our citizens, we cannot ignore these disparities and the toll these infections can take if they are not diagnosed, treated and - ultimately - prevented.

For more information about STD prevention, including CDC's STD screening recommendations and treatment guidelines, visit www.cdc.gov/std or call 1-800-CDC-INFO.

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S-E-X: Now that I've Got Your Attention, This Really Is About S-T-Ds

Madison J. Gray — 2009-11-20T15:59:00+00:00

Filed under: Sexual Health

There are two things human beings do very well, run their mouths and, ahem...procreate.

Trust me, right now someone in this world, actually probably many people, are getting their collective freaks on, in famliar and unfamiliar ways. There are people who should be having sex as well as people who shouldn't (at least not with each other). Through the 2 million-year history of our species, every generation got here through the act of coitus, and nobody asked, "Was it good for you, baby?" because we were boning before we had learned to talk.

But, oddly enough, in modern times, we put far more societal emphasis on people flapping their jaws than people slapping their loins. The result is a lot less sex education than we need and reports like the one from the CDC that says sexually transmitted diseases are on the rise -- particularly since the Bush administration did everything it could to eliminate sex ed from classrooms.

In fairness, the people offering the report say that better testing is revealing that more people are walking around burning, which is actually a good thing. Medical science isolating a disease and then treating it is how we eradicate it. But the fact that instances of diseases like chlamydia being the most ever reported last year (at 1.2 million cases) and syphillis making a comeback (despite being nearly annihilated a decade ago) points to lax attitudes about our sexual health. (Note: I don't believe in terms, like, "safe sex," because your sexual behavior should be a part of your overall outlook on health.)

Now the funniest thing about the chlamydia rate is that it is reported highest in teenaged girls and affecting African Americans worst of all. If we look back a few years to the previous administration, where President Goerge W. Bush insisted that the best sex ed was "abstinence only" instruction, technically, he was right. The only sure fire way to not get pregnant or go home with extra luggage is to keep your skivvies pulled up at all times.

With that said, how many teens actually did that? Remember as I said earlier, as a species, we've been doing it for a couple million years. There is nothing in the way we construct our societies that would suggest teaching teenagers -- who are just discovering their sexual virility -- that abstinence is something they can easily uphold despite their base instincts telling them otherwise.

Don't get me wrong, we'd all like to think our teenaged daughters are "saving it" and that our young sons are waiting for "the one." The truth is, though, times have changed and as a society we are just more liberal about sex. So why shouldn't the way we educate our youth about sex reflect that?

This isn't to say that we should be teaching 15-year-olds advanced whipped cream and honey methods or making the Kama Sutra a high school textbook (besides it probably wouldn't replace Juggs in any boy's locker anyway). But we should be teaching young people to be responsible with their bodies, to respect themselves, making them understand that sex isn't a toy or a weapon, and that like anything else, there is a consequence for their choices. Most importantly, we should teach that if they do choose sex, there are alternatives to "barebacking it" that would protect them in the short and long term.

Now, I know there are a lot of people who disagree with me wholeheartedly on this matter, primarily because of their political or religious views. But I've gotta challenge them with this: I've seen urban clinics passing out condoms, giving out birth control advice, and literature on sexual health that very, very significantly reduced the number of STDs and teen pregnancies in whole communities -- but they are constantly fighting for funds and resources to do their work.

On the other hand, every black community I know is full of preachers and politicians, and I have yet to hear any of them report that they actually prevented the spread of HIV, herpes, syphillis, gonnorhea, genital warts or any other disease, or reduced teen pregnancy. But there always seems to magically be funding and resources for them.

So yeah, this post was more parental discretion advised, but believe me, I can't even get as blunt as I'd like to. Still the message is that when it comes to our health, knowledge is to overall prevention what Viagra is to... well, you know.

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Men Cheat Down? Women Cheat Up?

Mason Jamal — 2009-11-20T15:16:00+00:00

Filed under: Relationships, Infidelity, E Male

The other day my attention was turned to the Black Voices Forums where the subject of cheating was getting heat. What lit the match was the suggestion that men cheat 'down' (with less attractive women) and women cheat' up' (with men who make more money and more moves than their current boyfriend/husband). Interesting.

As a married man for the past four years, I thought for a fleeting moment that perhaps I should just walk around this bed of hot coals. After all, I wouldn't want someone in my household to "misunderstand" my casual observations on the subject and turn them into a self-incriminating indictment. But as you can see, I defied the wifestyle and decided to do the barefoot fire walk over the hot coals anyway. I do suggest that my married male readers live vicariously through me and not get baited into this conversation with your wife. I'll take this one for the team.

On with it. The idea that men cheat down and women cheat up seemed too easy. I certainly recognize where the suggestion comes from -- married women. And it rings with a smidge of truth. But to believe it's that simple is to think you're sitting in a remedial basic math class when you're actually sitting in AP Calculus. It's complicated.

That said, most women who cheat probably do seek an upgrade, but there are plenty of exceptions. When cougars (and pumas) attack, for example, all bets are off. Men, on the other hand, are way more unpredictable. Let's keep in mind that plenty of men don't cheat. But for those who do, certainly, a lot of them indeed cheat down. However, others cheat up, cheat across, cheat diagonal, cheat standing still. They cheat. Connect Four. Name the game. Cheating men play it. Show me a room full of cheating men and I'll show you a chess board; different players moving different ways, some with more latitude than others.

Look, I understand the attraction to a good one liner like men cheat down and women cheat up. It's easy. It's kind of funny. It makes for good gab. But this idea that a man is simply looking for a jump-off to back that ass up, while a woman is on a mission for a man who can pack that ass up and fly her to exotic locales is exaggerated. When it comes to cheating, men and women are more similar than they are different. Where the contrast lies is how the two genders are viewed by society. Men who cheat, are seen as the next contestant on Maury Povich, while women who cheat usually get the "sit down and let's talk about it" Oprah treatment. Cheating is cheating, whether you're going up, going down, going in or going to Cabo. It is what it is.

Mason Jamal writes about issues pertaining to the style, substance and sensibilities of men (and sometimes women). For more of his musings, you can visit www.MasonSays.com. You can also follow him on Twitter @masonsays

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Film Review: Sandra Bullock Shines in 'The Blind Side'

Wilson Morales — 2009-11-20T15:00:00+00:00

Filed under: Reviews

With films like 'Precious' out in theaters, demonstrating that anyone can overcome the grittiness of poverty and a disturbing urban life, here's come another with a similar story. But the difference is that this film is based on a true story.

Based on the nonfiction best seller by Michael Lewis on football player Michael Oher and directed by John Lee Hancock, 'The Blind Side' is an emotionally uplifting tale in which Sandra Bullock excels in her best performance since 'Crash.'

While the trailer suggests that the film, about a poor kid taken in by a white family and begins to gain strength in pride, may seem cliché, it actually happened to Oher. From the start of the film, Michael, played admirably by Quinton Aaron, is admitted to a private Christian school through the help of a family friend.

Michael is big and strong, but he's also quiet has a low IQ, which doesn't help his situation in school until Leigh Anne Tuohy (Bullock) spots him walking in the cold without a jacket and invites him over to her house. Tuohy happens to be a socialite in the community with strong ties. Before long, with the support of her husband Sean (Tim McGraw) and her two children (Jae Head, Lily Collins), Michael improve his grades and his social skills.

Looking to get to the root of his existence and what led him to be cast astray by his family, Leigh Anne goes the extra mile in searching for answers, including taking a trip to the urban side of town, where Michael is ready to protect her from the hooligans lurking at her car and her beauty. When his grades are good enough to join the football team, he excels at the sport, and many top colleges are hungry for his talent, yet they are skeptical about whether he can make it to the next educational level. That's where Kathy Bates comes in the film as the tutor and things seem to brighten for the future NFL player.

From 'Great Expectations' to 'Oliver Twist' and countless other films that bear similarities, 'The Blind Side' doesn't offer anything new to the genre, but it's the performances that stand out. For newcomer Aaron, the actor doesn't have much dialogue, but for the most part, he acts with his expressions and actions. Head is quite charming as the kid that accepts Michael into the family and helps him with his athletic skills. Sporting a blond wig and a Southern accent, Bullock is the catalyst that keeps the film from being anything but boring.

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News Blast: Eminem's Follow-Up to Be Released Next Year, Oprah to End Show in 2011

Abena Agyeman-Fisher — 2009-11-20T10:22:00+00:00

Filed under: News, Politics, President Obama, Health Care Debate

Eminem's Follow-Up to Be Released Next Year
Eminem will release his next album, 'Relapse 2,' a follow-up to 'Relapse 1,' next year. [RollingStone]

Oprah to End Show in 2011
Oprah's production company, Harpo, has announced that it will end 'The Oprah Winfrey Show' in September 2011, 25 years after the media maven made her on-air debut. [Black Voices]

Bishops Relationship With White House Strained
Catholic bishops have been supporting President Barack Obama's health care legislation, however, differing stances on abortion are threatening to break up the alliance. [CBS News]

Man Charged With Rape and Murder in Shaniya Davis Case
Mario McNeill has been charged with raping and killing 5-year-old Shaniya Davis. Authorities said yesterday that Shaniya was sexually assaulted and asphyxiated before she was discarded on a highway. [Black Voices]

More News Blasts

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They're Here!

TiffaniLW — 2009-11-20T10:08:00+00:00

Filed under: Updates, Message Boards

Your brand new Black Voices Community has arrived!

Before we send a formal invitation to the masses on Monday, get your sneak peek today and see all the new features we've created using your feedback.

Whether you are a new or existing member of the Black Voices community, you will be thrilled! Here are just a few things you will notice that make our community different from others.

- Follow other members and add friends to your roster
- Send or share discussions with others via email, Facebook, MySpace, Twitter and more
- Reply directly to another poster using our quote feature
- New, enhanced profiles store all your comments and replies to you!
- And more great features!

Ready to get started? Visit the Community today. No login is necessary but when you create a free account you unlock all the great benefits of being a Black Voices member.

See you on the boards!

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Doctor Shortage in America: What's the Problem? Dr. Boyce Analyzes

Boyce Watkins, PhD — 2009-11-20T09:25:00+00:00

Filed under: Other

One of the obstacles being faced by President Obama as he works to overhaul the health care system is the shortage of doctors across America. Our country is woefully unprepared for the number of primary care physicians that we will need as the American population ages. The problem is that fewer doctors are interested in doing primary care, since the medicare payments to primary care physicians are lower than those made to specialists. As a result, there's been a 51.8% decline in the number of medical school students going into primary care since 1997.
The American Academy of Family Physicians predicts that by 2020, we will be short 40,000 family physicians relative to what our nation will need by that time. The American Medical Association is one of the primary culprits in the doctor shortage. A 1994 article, as well as many conferences during the 80s and 90s, predicted a 165,000 surplus in the number of doctors by the year 2000. As a result, medical schools agreed to voluntarily restrict the supply of medical students entering their programs. The only problem was that the predicted surplus never occurred. Instead, we got a shortage.

Dr. Elaina George, a prominent physician out of Atlanta, says that the doctor shortage is going to have lasting consequences on the American public.

"In the short term, there will likely be a decrease in access since we will be unable to accommodate the increase in patients," says Dr. George, one of the few black doctors willing to discuss health care reform in public. "In the long term a patient will have to wait even longer to see a specialist."

One great challenge with health care reform is that the previously warped system created a set of special interests who all feel entitled to whatever they were receiving from the broken system. Specialists were overpaid due to their scarcity, and they now refuse to take a reduction in medicare payments to compensate for the shortage in primary care physicians. President Obama has to be strong and force some of these special interests to make the same sacrifices as the American people.

Here are some things that the Obama Administration can do to deal with the doctor shortage in America:

1) Increase medicare and medicaid payments to primary care physicians, and pay for the increase with a reduction in payments to specialists.

2) Increase the number of students enrolled in medical school. It makes no sense that there are strong students who apply to medical school every year, but are then denied because schools have chosen to restrict the supply of doctors to their own benefit.

3) Increase the use of Nurse Practitioners and Physician's Assistants. These individuals are highly trained and can do much of the work of a doctor without unnecessary cost.

4) Do something about malpractice insurance. Keep the limits on malpractice suits high enough to make a difference, but low enough that insurance rates are lower. This will keep doctors from leaving the profession due to the cost of insurance.

By making everyone do their part in the cost of health care reform, we can avoid a situation in which the fat cats get fatter, while the rest of America starves. President Obama already understands that there are tough decisions that need to be made. Hopefully, he and his fellow Democrats will be able to make them.

Dr. Boyce Watkins is a Finance Professor at Syracuse University and founder of the Your Black World Coalition. To have Dr. Boyce commentary delivered to your email, please click here.

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Holy Hypocrisy: Christian Label Suspends Rapper for Extramarital Affair

Jawn Murray — 2009-11-20T09:09:00+00:00

Filed under: Exclusives, Music, Gospel

After the music site DaGospelTruth.com revealed that several gospel artists were having extramarital affairs, Christian record label Cross Movement Records (CMR) announced that it had suspended rapper Da T.R.U.T.H. (whose real name is Emanuel L. Lambert, Jr.).

(For details on the scandal, read 'Love Triangle Takes on a Whole New Meaning! The Story Unfolds About Tye Tribbett & Da T.R.U.T.H.')

The Philadelphia-bred rapper's alleged extramarital affair with the wife of his friend and fellow gospel singer had been the topic of discussion on the gospel rumor mill for several weeks before the Grammy nominee announced his hiatus from the industry.

Da T.R.U.T.H. essentially confirmed the speculation when he posted a statement on his personal Web site, www.DaTruth.net, announcing that he was taking "a sabbatical from music ministry and teaching" due to a "moral indiscretion" in his "personal life."

CMR has now released a statement announcing that the strict Bible-based music label will not permanently sever ties with Da T.R.UT.H. but would temporarily institute a "suspension of the promotion and forwarding of" of the two-time Stellar Award winner.

The statement continued: "While obedience to the Word of God is the high standard for all who name the name of Christ, for the Christian leader, the standards and the consequences are even greater. We at CMR plead for your prayers for our brother Da Truth whom we sincerely love. We also ask for your prayers for his wife, his family, his Pastor, his Elders and Church during this very hard time in their lives. In addition, we both thank and applaud Da Truth for his letter of confession found on his site, as well as ours. We declare that in Da Truth's case, in light of all the circumstances, in light of the authoritative stand by which he preached, and in the case of the Christian leader, this should be the commendable example of the responsible servant."

No word from CMR or Da T.R.U.T.H. on how long the "suspension" or "sabbatical" will be.

Da T.R.U.T.H., who has taken a very public stance against non-Christian music artists - unaffectionately called "secular artists" by churchgoers -- is not the first rapper to come under fire from CMR for alleged adultery.

The label dropped rapper The Ambassador back in May and then posted a statement explaining why to fans.

"It is with much grief, severe disappointment and an overwhelming fear of the Lord that Cross Movement Records is sad to announce that we will be discontinuing the forwarding and promotion of the Artist and Minister, The Ambassador AKA William "Duce" Branch, due to recent findings of moral failure in his marriage. It is CMR's past, current and prayerfully, future position that living in moral compromise is unacceptable and never allowable in the lives of any of the ministers that we co-labor with. We continue to hold up the teachings of Christ as the standard for all Christians and especially those in Christian leadership and public ministry. Although it is a rare find these days, discipline is still one of the true marks of the true Church."

*****

For other gospel related stories, read: 'BeBe Booted: Oprah Winfrey Removes Winans from Her Talk Show'

& 'Mary Mary: One Gives Birth, Other One Pregnant.'

Follow JAWN MURRAY on TWITTER

Black Music Notes Mar. 19

3/19/09: Rihanna / Chris Brown
Contrary to previous claims that Rihanna and Chris Brown reunited in the studio last month to record a new duet, record producer Polow Da Don recently confirmed that the couple recorded the newly surfaced track last year. "The reports are inaccurate," Polow's publicist, Laura Wright, told US magazine. "The duet was recorded long before the incident." According to People, the track, reportedly titled 'Bad Girl,' was intended to be on the soundtrack for 'Confessions of a Shopaholic,' but the song was eventually recorded by the Pussycat Dolls.

Frank Micelotta, Getty Images

3/19/09: Kanye West / The Dream
Seven years ago this month, music heavyweights R. Kelly and Jay-Z released their highly anticipated collaborative album 'The Best of Both Worlds.' Now it appears Kanye West and The Dream are vying to work on a similar project. "Everybody is trying to talk us into it," Dream told 'MTV News' of his and West's friends and business associates. "It was first thought of by me. I was in Miami at the time, and I gave Kanye a call and said, 'The best thing would be for me and you to do an album.'... Let's take the best of both worlds and put it on a CD and try to make something we can sell to the consumers. He says he's with it. We're gonna try to make it happen." For now, you can catch Kanye on Dream's potential third single 'Walking on the Moon,' which is featured on his newly released album 'Love vs. Money.'

Getty Images

3/19/09: The Miracles
Legendary Motown group The Miracles is the latest musical act to receive a Hollywood star on the world-renowned Walk of Fame. The 'Ooo Baby, Baby' singers were presented with the 2,381st star on March 20 by Hollywood Chamber of Commerce, President and CEO Leron Gubler. Motown founder Berry Gordy and Stevie Wonder were also on hand as guest speakers for the ceremony.

Michael Ochs Archives / Getty Images

3/19/09: Chester Gregory
After several years of blowing audiences away on the 'Great White Way,' Broadway Star and R&B soul recording artist Chester Gregory is preparing the release of his debut album 'In Search of High Love.' The March 31 release finds the multitalented singer introducing himself as a thoughtful and sensitive songwriter blessed with a voice that captivates and demands attention. "While I've thoroughly enjoyed performing on Broadway -- eight shows a week and telling other people's amazing stories -- now it's time for me to share my own," explained Gregory. Highlights of 'In Search of High Love' include the poetic 'Clouds to the Ground,' the crossover-bound 'Say it's Over' and Jackie Wilson's soaring 1967 chart-topper 'Higher and Higher.'

Jemal Countess, WireImage

3/19/09: Sammy Davis Jr.
Altovise Davis, the widow of Rat Pack member Sammy Davis Jr. , recently died at the age of 65. Two days prior to her death, she was admitted to Los Angeles'Cedars-Sinai Medical Center after suffering a stroke. The couple, who met in 1967 on the set of the musical 'Golden Boy,' married in 1970 and remained together until Davis' untimely death of throat cancer in 1990.

Evening Standard / Getty Images

3/19/09: Earth, Wind & Fire
Iconic Rock and Roll Hall of Fame group Earth, Wind & Fire is set to hit the road this summer for a 30-city tour beginning June 5 in Orange Beach, AL. In addition to Maurice White and company gracing the stage will be pop-rock band Chicago, which will perform a full show before joining for a final set together, according to Billboard. The tour will conclude on Aug. 1 in Lake Tahoe, NV.

Santiago Llanquin / AP

3/19/09: Kim Burrell
Gospel vocalist Kim Burrell is on deck to release her first new album in nine years titled 'No Ways Tired.' The project's title is inspired by gospel pioneer James Cleveland's classic of the same name. In addition to covering Cleveland's hit, Burrell also tapped other timeless classics including 'My Faith Looks Up to Thee,' 'What a Friend We Have in Jesus,' 'O Lamb of God,' and 'I Surrender All.' There are also a few originals. 'No Ways Tired' is set to hit stores April 7 via Shanachie Records.

Zomba

3/19/09: Mike Jones
Despite being on hiatus since the release of his debut album 'Who Is Mike Jones?' Houston's own Mike Jones is ready to make his mark on the charts once again with the release of 'The Voice.' Jones' sophomore effort is packed with some of the industry's most talented artist including, Lil' Wayne, T-Pain, Devin the Dude, Hurricane Chris and Twista. He's had recent success with his latest single 'Next To You,' which is currently number 16 on Radio and Records Rhythmic charts. "For the past four years, I have been doing a lot of restructuring, getting this record right, making sure my business is right and more," Jones said of his hiatus. "Now, I am ready to finish what I started. I'm hoping my fans will feel 'The Voice' was worth the wait." Mike Jones 'The Voice' is due in stores April 28.

Gilbert Carrasquillo, FilmMagic

3/19/09: Prince
With the recent announcement that Michael Jackson will return to the stage this summer, another influential artist is also planning to make his return. Beginning March 25, Prince will be performing on the 'Tonight Show with Jay Leno' for three consecutive nights. In addition, the 'Little Red Corvette' singer is also readying the Mar. 29 release of his two new albums 'LOtUSFLOW3R' and 'MPLSoUND.' Prince is the latest artist to promote a release through multiple late-night talk show performances. U2 also recently performed five nights in a row on the 'Late Show with David Letterman' in support of its new album 'No Line on the Horizon.'

Kevin Winter, NCLR / Getty Images

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Victoria's Secret Fashion Show 2009: Feathers and Diamonds and Lace, Oh My!

Lauren Williams — 2009-11-20T09:08:00+00:00

Filed under: Photos, Fashion News

It's that time of the year again. Last night, in a flurry of feathers, hair extensions, glitter and uncomfortable underwire, the Angels once again strutted half-dressed down a diamond-crusted runway in the annual over-the-top Victoria's Secret Fashion Show.

Before a star-studded audience that included a tuxedo-clad Jay-Z, Dr. Dre and Keri Hilson, models Selita Ebanks, Chanel Iman and Sessilee Lopez, among others, worked the runway in lingerie outfits that weren't the sorts of things any woman in her right mind could or would wear under her clothes. But they were pretty to look at nonetheless!

Heidi Klum, who had a baby daughter just five weeks ago, opted for hosting the event in an elaborate dress-leaf corset costume instead of actually modeling the goods on the runway.

Dominican-American model Lopez had fun with a green velvet holiday-themed lingerie set paired with matching boots.

Chanel Iman donned this racy lace bodysuit during the show.

You can catch the full event, which took place at New York's Lincoln Armory and featured a performance by the Black Eyed Peas, Tuesday, Dec. 1 at 10 p.m. Until then, tide yourself over by clicking through the fashion show pics.

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10 Family Films

'Akeelah and the Bee'
Directed by Doug Atchison, this 2006 film stars Keke Palmer as a young girl from Los Angeles trying to make it to the National Spelling Bee. Reuniting again for third time are Angela Bassett and Laurence Fishburne, who play her mother and her mentor, respectively.

'Crooklyn'
Directed by Spike Lee in 1994, and starring Alfre Woodard and Delroy Lindo, is this vibrant semi-autobiographical portrait of a school teacher, her stubborn Jazz musician husband and their five kids living in Brooklyn during the '70s. Also starring in the film are Isaiah Washington, Vondie Curtis-Hall and RuPaul.

'Claudine'
Diahann Carroll received a best actress Oscar nomination for her role in this 1974 film about a black woman who tries to provide for her six children in Harlem while on welfare. Directed by John Berry, the film also starred James Earl Jones as her love interest, Roxie Roker and Lawrence Hilton-Jacobs. Curtis Mayfield wrote and produced the film's score and soundtrack, and the vocals were performed by Gladys Knight & the Pips.

'Lean on Me'
Morgan Freeman star in 1989's 'Lean on Me,' which was loosely based on the story of Joe Clark, a real-life inner-city high school principal in Paterson, NJ, whose school was at risk of being taken over by the state. This film's title refers to the 1972 Bill Withers song of the same name. Also starring in the film are Beverly Todd, Alan North, Robert Guillaume and the late Lynne Thigpen.

'Roots'
Probably the greatest African American miniseries aired on television, 'Roots' is a 1977 dramatization of author Alex Haley's family line, from ancestor Kunta Kinte's enslavement to his descendents' liberation. The series featured household names such John Amos, LeVar Burton, Ben Vereen, Louis Gossett Jr. , Edward Asner, Leslie Uggams and Cicely Tyson.

'School of Rock'
Jack Black scored a hit in this 2003 Richard Linklater film about a wannabe rock star in need of cash who poses as a substitute teacher at a prep school and tries to turn his class into a rock band. Also starring in the film are Mike White, Joan Cusack and Miranda Cosgrove of 'iCarly.'

'Sister Act'
Whoopi Goldberg starred in this 1992 comedy hit about a lounge singer who enters protective custody in a San Francisco convent after a mob boss puts her on his hit list. Also starring in the film are Maggie Smith, Kathy Najimy and young Lauryn Hill. The film was followed by a 1993 sequel, 'Sister Act 2: Back in the Habit.'

'The Lion King' & 'The Incredibles'
Two of Disney's blockbuster animation films were the 1994 chart topping 'Lion King,' which is the highest grossing 2-D animation film of all time in the United States, and the 2004 computer-animated superhero film 'The Incredibles.' In 'Lion King,' a guilt-ridden lion cub flees into exile and abandons his identity as the future king after being tricked into thinking he killed his father, while 'The Incredibles' features a family of undercover superheroes forced into action to save the world.

'The Pursuit of Happyness'
Will Smith and his son Jaden scored a monster hit in this 2006 film, in which a struggling salesman takes custody of his son as he's poised to begin a life-changing professional endeavor. Directed by Gabriele Muccino and also starring Thandie Newton, the film is based on the true story of Chris Gardner.

'The Wiz'
With an all-star cast that included Diana Ross, the late Michael Jackson, Nipsey Russell, and Ted Ross, this 1978 adaption of 'The Wizard of Oz' captured the essence of the African American experience.

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Funeral Cost Management: How to Bury on a Budget

Boyce Watkins, PhD — 2009-11-20T08:25:00+00:00

Filed under: Personal Finance, Dr. Boyce Money

Funerals are never fun. They are emotionally draining and you are forced to endure the shock of knowing that your loved one will never be back in your life. In addition to the emotional devastation, you have to deal with the financial burdens of paying for someone to be buried. We all know that funerals are not free or cheap, and the last place you want to be cheap is when it comes to burying the person you love.

But there are ways you can keep the cost down. They say you can't take the money with you, but someone who doesn't plan for their death may be taking their relatives' money with them to the grave. Here are some ways that you can bury on a budget: giving relatives dignity without creating financial hardship.

There is a funeral cost calculator on FuneralswithLove.com that helps you to figure out how much your funeral might cost and whether or not you're going to be able to pay for it. Effectively, the cost estimator first determines your total resources from prepaid expenses, personal savings/investments, and death benefits. Once you know what is available to you, you have to determine how much you want to spend. Some of us want to go out in style and some of us figure that since we're dead, our relatives should be the ones having all the fun.

There are three categories of funeral costs: funeral expenses, burial expenses and miscellaneous expenses. Funeral expenses are the costs related to the casket and services provided by the funeral home. Burial expenses derive from the cost of the burial plot or tools for cremation. Cremation is typically cheaper than burial, since you save on the cost of the casket, embalming and burial plot. Miscellaneous expenses might involve flowers, performances or other things you do to spice up your funeral (if there ever were such a thing). You might also consider the cost of any events that occur after the funeral, such as catered food, etc.

In addition to the typical costs of holding a funeral, you may run into serious legal issues. Christopher Chestnut, a leading attorney specializing in mortuary law, states that, "Mortuary law issues typically arise when the funeral, the preparation of the deceased's body, or some form of financial dispute comes from a client's dealings with the funeral home or crematory."

So, in addition to the emotional stress of losing a loved one, you may run into problems with shady funeral homes. For example, there is a well-known case of Burr Oak Cemetery, where burial plots were being resold after bodies were dug up and dumped in an abandoned lot. If you run into problems during the funeral of a loved one, there are attorneys who specialize in making everything right. Unfortunately, death is one time when families are more likely to be involved in legal wrangling. It's actually kind of sad.

Here are some quick tips on saving on the cost of your funeral:

1) Shop around for options. The most popular funeral home in your community may not always be the best.
2) Consider a closed casket. Open casket funerals require embalming. This is an expense that you don't want to worry about.
3) Make sure you have life insurance. Don't let your loved one suffer financially in addition to the emotional pain they are already experiencing.
4) Consider cremation. This can save you money on the cost of a burial plot and casket.
5) Plan ahead. Make sure that your will specifies how you want to be buried, so that an overzealous relative doesn't blow all the insurance money "doing it big" at your service.

Remember that when you die, you are getting the easy way out. Your loved ones are the ones who will be given the job of living. Make it easy for them by planning ahead and being intelligent. It will be worthwhile.

Dr. Boyce Watkins is a Professor at Syracuse University and founder of the Your Black World Coalition. To have Dr. Boyce commentary delivered to your email, please click here.

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Judge: Army Corps 'Monumental Negligence' to Blame for Katrina Flooding

Carmen Dixon — 2009-11-20T07:15:00+00:00

Filed under: News

In a ruling that vindicates New Orleans residents long-ignored complaints, and opens the door to lawsuits and settlements that could amount to billions of dollars, a federal judge has ruled that the Army Corps of Engineers' failure to maintain the Mississippi River Gulf Outlet (MRGO), a navigation channel, makes it liable for the worst flooding of Katrina.

Flooding caused by Hurricane Katrina killed 700 people in New Orleans alone and devastated the impoverished Lower Ninth Ward. The cost of property damage in the region was put at more than $100 billion.

"The corps' lassitude and failure to fulfill its duties resulted in a catastrophic loss of human life and property in unprecedented proportions," U.S. District Judge Stanwood Duval wrote.

The ruling initially awards only $720,000 in damages to three individuals and a business. However, it opens the way for "billions of dollars of liability for the government," according to Pierce O'Donnell, the Los Angeles-based lawyer for the four successful plaintiffs. Source: Flooding from Hurricane Katrina was man-made disaster, judge rules

Nearly half a million legal claims have already been filed against the Army Corps of Engineers since Katrina swept ashore on August 29, 2005. The Bush administration refused to settle any of them in the absence of a legal ruling, despite the fact that the risks of disaster were known to corps more than 20 years ago:

Furthermore, the corps not only knew, but admitted by 1988, that the MRGO threatened human life and yet it did not act in time to prevent the catastrophic disaster that ensued with the onslaught of Hurricane Katrina. Source: New Orleans-Area Residents 'Vindicated' by Katrina Ruling Against Army Corps of Engineers

I recall watching the post-Katrina wall-to-wall news coverage. Interview after interview featured residents saying that at least some of the worst of Katrina's destruction was the fault of engineering failures. Person after person voiced on camera that the Army Corps of Engineers had not been doing a good job.

Those comments were usually dismissed.

Now those voices have been heard. And we've discovered that they were right.

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Ask, Believe, Expect and Receive

Barry Johnson — 2009-11-20T06:06:00+00:00

Filed under: Spirituality and Religion

Your Daily Inspiration for Friday November 20, 2009:

An often repeated scripture from the Bible states, "You have not, because you ask not". The act of asking in clarity and with faith can be the difference between having and not having; experiencing and not. Today I heed this spiritual truth and make my request clearly and faithfully, knowing that in divine time, this-- or better--- will manifest.
Ask & Believe, Expect & Receive,

Barry J.

Previously: I Pray For The Others

Barry Johnson is a businessman, motivational speaker and writer. He holds a B.S. degree from Yale and an MBA degree from Harvard. You can follow him at twitter.com/thebarryjohnson and email him at bjohnson@risemovement.org.

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