theroot--2020-12-02--Students in Florida School District Spammed With More Than 8 Million Racist and Derogatory Emails

It ’ s always been difficult for students—especially students of color—to escape exposure to racism and other forms of bigotry in schools .
This is as true for students learning virtually due to the pandemic as it is for students learning in person because the internet—which students rely on for their educational needs—ensures that anyone can be reached .
Since the coronavirus pandemic began , stories about racist “ Zoombombing ” and other offensive spamming efforts plaguing the online conferences of schools and businesses have been reported constantly , and there ’ s no denying how disruptive it can be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ receive an education .
An entire Florida school district was flooded with more than eight million emails that contained racist or otherwise “ disgusting ” messages and were sent to students all over the county , according to school district officials .
The Associated Press reports that high school and middle school students in Seminole County began receiving the emails on Saturday , and on Tuesday , school officials were still scrambling to delete all of the messages despite the mass spamming effort having been blocked from reaching students ’ accounts the same @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Many emails included racist and derogatory messages , with some referencing Russia and its president Vladimir Putin , school district spokesman Michael Lawrence told the newspaper in an email .
He said one batch of emails sent to students at Hagerty High School and Crooms Academy contained a link to a video reportedly showing a beheading .
The district said no student or district data was breached , and the effort did not disrupt any district operations .
“ Our Information Services Department and local law enforcement has been alerted and are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” the school district said in one of several messages sent to parents .
“ In the meantime , please let your students know that if they have received any of these emails to DELETE THEM IMMEDIATELY !
” Lawrence said the emails appear to have been generated by a bot .
“ When will my 10th grader stop getting these disgusting emails ?
?
” one mother wrote on the district ’ s Facebook page Monday .
“ She ’ s been getting them since Saturday and they keep coming in and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
They are coming at such a rate that she ’ s losing important emails from her teachers in the midst of them.
” According to Newsweek , one student , Riley Jackson of Hagerty High School , said she received around 986 emails .
“ People are getting emails from people they don ’ t know and it ’ s kind of scary in a weird kind of way , ” Riley said .
Riley ’ s mother , Betty Jackson , echoed her daughter ’ s sentiments saying , “ It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and I don ’ t appreciate it , ” and that officials “ need to find out what ’ s going on and you need to stop it.
” Some of the messages sent out included racial slurs , and one contained sexually explicit comments directed toward a school employee .
Other messages featured a photo of George Floyd under the caption , “ Black lives don ’ t matter.
” School district officials told students ’ parents that “ the emails are coming from both Gmail and Protonmail email accounts , ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sentinel that the spamming is being investigated by the school district ’ s information services department , the Seminole County Sheriff ’ s Office and Microsoft .

It’s always been difficult for students—especially students of color—to escape exposure to racism and other forms of bigotry in schools. This is as true for students learning virtually due to the pandemic as it is for students learning in person because the internet—which students rely on for their educational needs—ensures that anyone can be reached. Since the coronavirus pandemic began, stories about racist “Zoombombing” and other offensive spamming efforts plaguing the online conferences of schools and businesses have been reported constantly, and there’s no denying how disruptive it can be, especially for young people trying to receive an education.
An entire Florida school district was flooded with more than eight million emails that contained racist or otherwise “disgusting” messages and were sent to students all over the county, according to school district officials.
Advertisement
The Associated Press reports that high school and middle school students in Seminole County began receiving the emails on Saturday, and on Tuesday, school officials were still scrambling to delete all of the messages despite the mass spamming effort having been blocked from reaching students’ accounts the same day the emails started flooding the district.
From AP:
Many emails included racist and derogatory messages, with some referencing Russia and its president Vladimir Putin, school district spokesman Michael Lawrence told the newspaper in an email. He said one batch of emails sent to students at Hagerty High School and Crooms Academy contained a link to a video reportedly showing a beheading. The district said no student or district data was breached, and the effort did not disrupt any district operations. “Our Information Services Department and local law enforcement has been alerted and are working diligently to remedy the situation,” the school district said in one of several messages sent to parents. “In the meantime, please let your students know that if they have received any of these emails to DELETE THEM IMMEDIATELY!” Lawrence said the emails appear to have been generated by a bot. “When will my 10th grader stop getting these disgusting emails??” one mother wrote on the district’s Facebook page Monday. “She’s been getting them since Saturday and they keep coming in and I keep telling her to delete them. They are coming at such a rate that she’s losing important emails from her teachers in the midst of them.”
Advertisement Advertisement
According to Newsweek, one student, Riley Jackson of Hagerty High School, said she received around 986 emails.
“People are getting emails from people they don’t know and it’s kind of scary in a weird kind of way,” Riley said. Riley’s mother, Betty Jackson, echoed her daughter’s sentiments saying, “It’s very concerning as a parent and I don’t appreciate it,” and that officials “need to find out what’s going on and you need to stop it.”
Advertisement
Some of the messages sent out included racial slurs, and one contained sexually explicit comments directed toward a school employee. Other messages featured a photo of George Floyd under the caption, “Black lives don’t matter.”
School district officials told students’ parents that “the emails are coming from both Gmail and Protonmail email accounts,” Newsweek reports.
Advertisement
Lawrence told the Orlando Sentinel that the spamming is being investigated by the school district’s information services department, the Seminole County Sheriff’s Office and Microsoft.


theroot--2020-12-02--All Black Everything: John Boyega on His Activism and Small Axe Role as a Black Policeman

“ It ’ s not that simple .
There are officers in there [ the police force ] that are Black , that do have good intentions .
But this [ film , Red , White and Blue ] is about them having to navigate a space where their intentions can ’ t even be actualized because the system won ’ t even support them ”  —John Boyega , Actor Are Black police officers—who , within the context of the United States and the United Kingdom , work in an inherently racist police force that functions within an equally @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that the answer to this question isn ’ t black and white .
“ It ’ s not that simple .
There are officers in [ the police force ] that are Black , that do have good intentions .
But this [ film , Red , White and Blue ] is about them having to navigate a space where their intentions can ’ t even be actualized because the system won ’ t even support them , ” John Boyega told The Root .
The actor and activist believes it ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ officer has a nuanced individual story .
Boyega explores the question of Black officers in racist policing systems , among others , in his powerful performance as Leroy Logan in Red , White and Blue—a film that is among Steve McQueen ’ s Small Axe anthology .
The series of five feature-length films focus on the struggle for Black power and liberation in the United Kingdom during the 1970s and 1980s .
Logan is the best and the brightest in his class ; as the adage goes , Black people must be twice @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Some might call Boye ga ’ s character naive in that he wants to change the system “ from the inside out , ” ( even after his father is assaulted by the police ) .
But Boyega—in real life—is an activist , with an unwavering voice and an undeniable love for Blackness , grounded in the sobering reality that racism is real .
Red , White and Blue will be available Dec. 4 on Amazon Prime Video .

We may earn a commission from links on this page.
Black News and Black Views with a Whole Lotta Attitude


theroot--2020-12-02--Still the Best: Tina Turner's Newest Book Has the Energy We All Need to Take Into 2021

Tina Turner is an international treasure .
In her 81 years , her incomparable talent and incredible tenacity have taken her from the backwoods of Nutbush , Tenn. to global fame ( and now living in Zurich , Switzerland ) , transcending genres and generations , and making her an icon for the ages .
But when we say Tina has soul , her decades-long devotion to Buddhism has to be part of the conversation—and it ’ s the focus of her latest book , Happiness Becomes You : A Guide to Changing Your Life for Good .
“ I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but I ’ ve had help , and I don ’ t mean success , or money , although I ’ ve been blessed with both , ” Turner writes ( h/t Vanity Fair ) .
“ The help that has been essential to my well-being , my joy , and my resilience is my spiritual life.
” The book is actually the second released by Turner this year ; her first authorized pictorial autobiography , That ’ s My Life , was published by Rizzoli in October .
But in a year @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the hard-fought wisdom of the original “ Ms .
Tina ” is right on time .
Tina is a global icon of inspiration .
And now , with Happiness Becomes You : A Guide to Changing Your Life for Good , Tina shows how anyone can overcome life ’ s obstacles—even transform the “ impossible ” to possible—and fulfill our dreams .
She shows how we , too , can improve our lives , empowering us with spiritual tools and sage advice to enrich our unique paths .
Buddhism has been a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ life for decades and , in music , film , and live performances , she has shined as an example of generating hope from nothing , breaking through all limitations , and succeeding in life .
Drawing from the lessons of her own life , from adversity to stratospheric heights , Tina effortlessly shows how the spiritual lessons of Buddhism help her transform from sorrow , adversity , and poverty into joy , stability , and prosperity .
In an exclusive interview with Vanity Fair , Turner , who famously documented her personal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and even a past suicide attempt amid her storied career with help from former MTV News anchor Kurt Loder in 1986 's I , Tina ( the basis for the now-classic film What ’ s Love Got to Do With It ) .
Nearly thirty-five years later , she has far more insight to share on how she ’ s coped with life ’ s most devastating losses ( including her son Craig ’ s 2018 suicide and a series of health crises , including a cancer battle and a 2013 stroke @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , that wisdom is now coming to bear in this universally difficult time .
“ The world is experiencing more angst and instability than we ’ ve seen in a long time , ” she says .
“ When so many people are facing adversity , I want to share the ways I increased my positivity and overcame every obstacle in my life , even the most impossible circumstances I faced .
I know if I can do it , everyone who reads Happiness Becomes You can do it too.
” Sharing that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ life , ” she explains that her chanting practice ( “ Nam-myoho-renge-kyo , ” a mantra in recognition of the wisdom contained in the Lotus Sutra , and core to Nichiren Buddhist faith ) , provided “ the clarity and strength to take charge of [ her ] own life , ” she told VF .
Soon after I began chanting , I came to see that everything I needed to change my life for the better was already inside of me .
I became more confident and hopeful , and the transformations @ @ @ @ @ @ @ me to become joyful and successful ...
This transformational process is called ‘ changing poison into medicine.
’ It ’ s an ancient concept that has become the hope-filled theme of my life .
Simply put , it means that whenever some negativity , or a ‘ poison , ’ arises , we have the power within ourselves to find the hidden value in it , and to transform it into something beneficial , into a ‘ medicine.
’ Clearly , there ’ s been no shortage of negativity or proverbial poison in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gravitate to Buddhism , as Turner explains , some of its principles are universally applicable .
“ In every crisis , frustration , or disaster is also the potential to learn , to grow , and to propel ourselves toward greater heights of wisdom and fulfillment than ever before , ” she says , adding , “ Real happiness is indestructible and does not depend on material circumstances , which constantly change .
Real happiness starts with the conviction that being alive is itself a joy .
And we already have within us @ @ @ @ @ @ @ potential ... Everyone has this ability , and I ’ m excited to share in this book exactly how to discover it.
” Happiness Becomes You : A Guide to Changing Your Life for Good is available now from Simon & Schuster .

Maiysha Kai on The Glow Up, shared by Maiysha Kai to The Root

Tina Turner is an international treasure. In her 81 years, her incomparable talent and incredible tenacity have taken her from the backwoods of Nutbush, Tenn. to global fame (and now living in Zurich, Switzerland), transcending genres and generations, and making her an icon for the ages. But when we say Tina has soul, her decades-long devotion to Buddhism has to be part of the conversation—and it’s the focus of her latest book, Happiness Becomes You: A Guide to Changing Your Life for Good.
“I’m a survivor by nature, but I’ve had help, and I don’t mean success, or money, although I’ve been blessed with both,” Turner writes (h/t Vanity Fair). “The help that has been essential to my well-being, my joy, and my resilience is my spiritual life.”
Advertisement
The book is actually the second released by Turner this year; her first authorized pictorial autobiography, That’s My Life, was published by Rizzoli in October. But in a year that has brought unpredictable and unprecedented trauma, the hard-fought wisdom of the original “Ms. Tina” is right on time.
Per publishers Simon & Schuster:
Tina is a global icon of inspiration. And now, with Happiness Becomes You: A Guide to Changing Your Life for Good, Tina shows how anyone can overcome life’s obstacles—even transform the “impossible” to possible—and fulfill our dreams. She shows how we, too, can improve our lives, empowering us with spiritual tools and sage advice to enrich our unique paths. Buddhism has been a central part of Tina Turner’s life for decades and, in music, film, and live performances, she has shined as an example of generating hope from nothing, breaking through all limitations, and succeeding in life. Drawing from the lessons of her own life, from adversity to stratospheric heights, Tina effortlessly shows how the spiritual lessons of Buddhism help her transform from sorrow, adversity, and poverty into joy, stability, and prosperity.
Advertisement Advertisement
In an exclusive interview with Vanity Fair, Turner, who famously documented her personal history of abuse, exploitation, bankruptcy, and even a past suicide attempt amid her storied career with help from former MTV News anchor Kurt Loder in 1986's I, Tina (the basis for the now-classic film What’s Love Got to Do With It). Nearly thirty-five years later, she has far more insight to share on how she’s coped with life’s most devastating losses (including her son Craig’s 2018 suicide and a series of health crises, including a cancer battle and a 2013 stroke). As she told Vanity Fair, that wisdom is now coming to bear in this universally difficult time.
“The world is experiencing more angst and instability than we’ve seen in a long time,” she says. “When so many people are facing adversity, I want to share the ways I increased my positivity and overcame every obstacle in my life, even the most impossible circumstances I faced. I know if I can do it, everyone who reads Happiness Becomes You can do it too.”
Advertisement
Sharing that Buddhism “literally saved [her] life,” she explains that her chanting practice (“Nam-myoho-renge-kyo,” a mantra in recognition of the wisdom contained in the Lotus Sutra, and core to Nichiren Buddhist faith), provided “the clarity and strength to take charge of [her] own life,” she told VF.
Soon after I began chanting, I came to see that everything I needed to change my life for the better was already inside of me. I became more confident and hopeful, and the transformations I achieved through my spiritual practice helped me to become joyful and successful...This transformational process is called ‘changing poison into medicine.’ It’s an ancient concept that has become the hope-filled theme of my life. Simply put, it means that whenever some negativity, or a ‘poison,’ arises, we have the power within ourselves to find the hidden value in it, and to transform it into something beneficial, into a ‘medicine.’
Advertisement
Clearly, there’s been no shortage of negativity or proverbial poison in 2020, and while everyone might not gravitate to Buddhism, as Turner explains, some of its principles are universally applicable.
“In every crisis, frustration, or disaster is also the potential to learn, to grow, and to propel ourselves toward greater heights of wisdom and fulfillment than ever before,” she says, adding, “Real happiness is indestructible and does not depend on material circumstances, which constantly change. Real happiness starts with the conviction that being alive is itself a joy. And we already have within us everything we need to tap into this potential...Everyone has this ability, and I’m excited to share in this book exactly how to discover it.”
Advertisement
Happiness Becomes You: A Guide to Changing Your Life for Good is available now from Simon & Schuster.


theroot--2020-12-02--What's New and Black on Netflix in December 2020? Find Out for Lil' Saint

It ’ s the last month of this super wild and unpredictable year , but one thing that has been consistent is this strong Black content .
That ’ s right , Netflix ’ s Strong Black Lead has some Black-ass content to wrap up the year .
If you want to relive the quintessential dance moves and vibes of the early 2000s , well you ’ re in luck because You Got Served is now streaming on Netflix .
I ’ m expecting to see mass participation in the # DoItForLilSaint challenge on TikTok , shortly .
Why Did @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Line Between Love and Hate also dropped at the top of the month .
We ’ re going to finally get to hear Ayo Edebiri ’ s voice as Missy in Season 4 of Big Mouth , which debuts on Netflix on Dec. 4 .
According to Vulture , the upcoming season will heavily lean into Missy ’ s Black identity , incorporating a special episode about code-switching ( in which the writers actually slid in a witty joke about Missy previously being voiced by a white woman , Jenny Slate ) .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s Black Bottom will premiere on the streaming platform on Dec. 18 .
Trust me , you ’ re going to want to save the date for Chadwick Boseman ’ s last performance ... it ’ s out of this world .
More Netflix originals include Giving Voice and The Prom , which both drop on Netflix on Dec. 11 .
Also , there is something coming to Netflix on Dec. 22 called London Hughes : To Catch a Dick , which I had to immediately look up for obvious reasons .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ comedy special .
From the Soho Theatre page where she performed this show , Hughes “ explores how as a woman , you can be incredibly awesome and successful yet incredibly single , and how fuckin ’ ridiculous it is.
” I mean ... true .
If you ’ re looking for some holiday content , How to Ruin Christmas : The Wedding will drop on Dec. 16 .
Speaking of Christmas , Shonda Rhimes ’ first Netflix deal project Bridgerton will premiere then so buckle up for some scandalous period piece gifts @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Lead lineup for December below :

Tonja Renée Stidhum on The Grapevine, shared by Tonja Renée Stidhum to The Root

It’s the last month of this super wild and unpredictable year, but one thing that has been consistent is this strong Black content. That’s right, Netflix’s Strong Black Lead has some Black-ass content to wrap up the year.
If you want to relive the quintessential dance moves and vibes of the early 2000s, well you’re in luck because You Got Served is now streaming on Netflix. I’m expecting to see mass participation in the #DoItForLilSaint challenge on TikTok, shortly.
Advertisement
Why Did I Get Married? and A Thin Line Between Love and Hate also dropped at the top of the month.
Advertisement Advertisement
We’re going to finally get to hear Ayo Edebiri’s voice as Missy in Season 4 of Big Mouth, which debuts on Netflix on Dec. 4. According to Vulture, the upcoming season will heavily lean into Missy’s Black identity, incorporating a special episode about code-switching (in which the writers actually slid in a witty joke about Missy previously being voiced by a white woman, Jenny Slate).
Mid-month will bring some much-anticipated content—Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom will premiere on the streaming platform on Dec. 18. Trust me, you’re going to want to save the date for Chadwick Boseman’s last performance...it’s out of this world. More Netflix originals include Giving Voice and The Prom, which both drop on Netflix on Dec. 11.
Advertisement
Also, there is something coming to Netflix on Dec. 22 called London Hughes: To Catch a Dick, which I had to immediately look up for obvious reasons. Apparently, it’s Hughes’ comedy special. From the Soho Theatre page where she performed this show, Hughes “explores how as a woman, you can be incredibly awesome and successful yet incredibly single, and how fuckin’ ridiculous it is.” I mean...true.
If you’re looking for some holiday content, How to Ruin Christmas: The Wedding will drop on Dec. 16. Speaking of Christmas, Shonda Rhimes’ first Netflix deal project Bridgerton will premiere then so buckle up for some scandalous period piece gifts.
Advertisement
Check out the complete Strong Black Lead lineup for December below:


theroot--2020-12-02--Crystal Mason, Imprisoned for 'Voting Illegally,' Appeals Texas High Court to Overturn Conviction

A Texas woman imprisoned for casting a provisional ballot in the 2016 presidential election is asking Texas ’ highest criminal court to overturn her conviction , in a case that could have major ramifications on the future of voting rights .
Crystal Mason was on a federal supervised release in November 2016 when she cast her provisional ballot , which was never counted .
The American Civil Liberties Union of Texas , as well as the national ACLU and the Texas Civil Rights Project joined Mason ’ s attorneys in filing the petition this week , reports the Texas Tribune @ @ @ @ @ @ @ exist specifically for voters whose eligibility is in question , as Mason ’ s was , and that she never intended to vote illegally .
Mason , who was released to a transitional home this spring , has fought the conviction for years , becoming a voting rights advocate along the way .
But as Alison Grinter , a defense attorney for Mason , said in a statement released by the ACLU , it was never Mason ’ s intention to be a spokesperson or case study for voting rights .
“ She @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or have her name become a rallying point in a politically divisive battle , ” Grinter said .
“ Hers is a textbook case for why provisional ballots were created and why they must not be criminalized .
Crystal ’ s fight is a fight for every Texan.
” Andre Segura , legal director for the ACLU of Texas , also emphasized the importance of Mason ’ s case , calling it “ one of the most important voting rights cases in modern Texas history.
” Mason attempted to cast a vote in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The pair went to “ the same polling place we always went to , ” Mason said .
She had recently been released after serving time in federal prison for tax fraud ; upon her release , Mason says , no one told her that she wasn ’ t allowed to vote .
Mason didn ’ t understand why her name wasn ’ t on the rolls , but a poll worker advised her to fill out a provisional ballot .
Provisional ballots have been around for less than 20 years , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ still be counted as their eligibility is being confirmed .
It can take up to 20 days for provisional ballots to be reviewed and voters notified about whether their ballots counted .
In 2016 , Pew Research estimated that 2.5 million people voted provisionally , with just 1.5 million ballots being fully counted .
Mason was one of 700,00 people whose provisional ballot ended up being tossed out because of eligibility issues .
In a campaign video for Bernie Sanders earlier this year , a defense attorney noted that in Tarrant County , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was among 4,500 people who cast a provisional ballot—3,990 of which were rejected .
Mason is the only person to be convicted of a crime and sentenced to prison for it .
She was sentenced to five years in prison in 2018 .
Her case went before an appellate court earlier this year that upheld her conviction , even as they acknowledged that she was unclear about the law .
That decision , Mason ’ s representation says , contradicts the Federal Help America Vote Act .
In a statement this week , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ than ever before ” to fight the case .
“ I thought I was performing my civic duty and followed the election process by filling out a provisional ballot , ” she said .
“ By trying to criminalize my actions , Texas has shown me the power of my voice .
”

A Texas woman imprisoned for casting a provisional ballot in the 2016 presidential election is asking Texas’ highest criminal court to overturn her conviction, in a case that could have major ramifications on the future of voting rights.
Crystal Mason was on a federal supervised release in November 2016 when she cast her provisional ballot, which was never counted. The American Civil Liberties Union of Texas, as well as the national ACLU and the Texas Civil Rights Project joined Mason’s attorneys in filing the petition this week, reports the Texas Tribune. They are arguing that provisional ballots exist specifically for voters whose eligibility is in question, as Mason’s was, and that she never intended to vote illegally.
Advertisement
Mason, who was released to a transitional home this spring, has fought the conviction for years, becoming a voting rights advocate along the way.
But as Alison Grinter, a defense attorney for Mason, said in a statement released by the ACLU, it was never Mason’s intention to be a spokesperson or case study for voting rights.
Advertisement Advertisement
“She never wanted to be on the news or have her name become a rallying point in a politically divisive battle,” Grinter said. “Hers is a textbook case for why provisional ballots were created and why they must not be criminalized. Crystal’s fight is a fight for every Texan.”
Andre Segura, legal director for the ACLU of Texas, also emphasized the importance of Mason’s case, calling it “one of the most important voting rights cases in modern Texas history.”
Advertisement
Mason attempted to cast a vote in 2016 at the behest of her mother. The pair went to “the same polling place we always went to,” Mason said. She had recently been released after serving time in federal prison for tax fraud; upon her release, Mason says, no one told her that she wasn’t allowed to vote.
Mason didn’t understand why her name wasn’t on the rolls, but a poll worker advised her to fill out a provisional ballot.
Advertisement
Provisional ballots have been around for less than 20 years, but provide voters an imported avenue to still be counted as their eligibility is being confirmed. It can take up to 20 days for provisional ballots to be reviewed and voters notified about whether their ballots counted. In 2016, Pew Research estimated that 2.5 million people voted provisionally, with just 1.5 million ballots being fully counted.
Mason was one of 700,00 people whose provisional ballot ended up being tossed out because of eligibility issues. In a campaign video for Bernie Sanders earlier this year, a defense attorney noted that in Tarrant County, where Mason attempted to vote, she was among 4,500 people who cast a provisional ballot—3,990 of which were rejected. Mason is the only person to be convicted of a crime and sentenced to prison for it.
Advertisement
She was sentenced to five years in prison in 2018.
Her case went before an appellate court earlier this year that upheld her conviction, even as they acknowledged that she was unclear about the law. That decision, Mason’s representation says, contradicts the Federal Help America Vote Act.
Advertisement
In a statement this week, Mason said she was “more energized than ever before” to fight the case.
“I thought I was performing my civic duty and followed the election process by filling out a provisional ballot,” she said. “By trying to criminalize my actions, Texas has shown me the power of my voice.”


theroot--2020-12-02--In True Black Superhero Form, Marshawn Lynch Reveals That the Source of His Super Powers Was Henness

In True Black Superhero Form, Marshawn Lynch Reveals That the Source of His Super Powers Was Hennessy

Professional athletes are notorious for their pre-game rituals .
Retired NBA champion Jason Terry used to sleep in the game-worn shorts of opposing teams the night before games ; Kansas coach Les Miles literally feasts on the field when games get too intense .
NFL great Marshawn Lynch had his own peculiar tradition when it came time to crack heads open on the gridiron .
In the season premiere of the ESPN+ series Peyton ’ s Places , the former Seattle Seahawk revealed that his infamous Beast Mode persona that allowed him to tear through defensive linemen like a bag @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from an unexpected source : Hennessy .
“ My superstition was that I needed to have a shot , maybe a shot and a half before every game , ” he tells host Peyton Manning while doing his best Birdman hand rub .
“ Hennessy !
What you mean of ?
” Manning hilariously suggests that it could ’ ve been Gatorade , but nope .
Lynch was clearly living his best Black-ass life before he hit the field without a bartender in sight .
This is the type of barbershop talk that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ former coach , Pete Carroll , hates to hear , but you can ’ t argue with the results .
In 12 NFL seasons , Beast Mode made the Pro Bowl five times , led the league in rushing touchdowns twice , had six seasons with at least 1,000 rushing yards and willed the Seahawks to a Super Bowl championship in 2014 .
Lynch retired last season and has spent the time since filming commercials and handing out Thanksgiving turkeys , but Hennessy might want to slide him some extra dollars to become @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for itself .
I fucking love Black folks .
Do yourself a favor and check out the episode in full here .

Professional athletes are notorious for their pre-game rituals.
Retired NBA champion Jason Terry used to sleep in the game-worn shorts of opposing teams the night before games; Kansas coach Les Miles literally feasts on the field when games get too intense. NFL great Marshawn Lynch had his own peculiar tradition when it came time to crack heads open on the gridiron.
In the season premiere of the ESPN+ series Peyton’s Places, the former Seattle Seahawk revealed that his infamous Beast Mode persona that allowed him to tear through defensive linemen like a bag of hot fries might’ve come from an unexpected source: Hennessy.
Advertisement
“My superstition was that I needed to have a shot, maybe a shot and a half before every game,” he tells host Peyton Manning while doing his best Birdman hand rub.
“Of?” Manning asks.
“Hennessy! What you mean of?”
Manning hilariously suggests that it could’ve been Gatorade, but nope. Lynch was clearly living his best Black-ass life before he hit the field without a bartender in sight.
Advertisement Advertisement
“The bar’s in my backpack,” Lynch admits.
Advertisement
This is the type of barbershop talk that I’m sure Lynch’s former coach, Pete Carroll, hates to hear, but you can’t argue with the results. In 12 NFL seasons, Beast Mode made the Pro Bowl five times, led the league in rushing touchdowns twice, had six seasons with at least 1,000 rushing yards and willed the Seahawks to a Super Bowl championship in 2014.
Lynch retired last season and has spent the time since filming commercials and handing out Thanksgiving turkeys, but Hennessy might want to slide him some extra dollars to become an official pitchman because his resume speaks for itself.
Advertisement
I fucking love Black folks. Do yourself a favor and check out the episode in full here.


theroot--2020-12-04--Judge Orders Kyle Rittenhouse to Stand Trial for Fatal Shooting of 2 in Kenosha, Wisc.

Almost two weeks after being released on bail , Kyle Rittenhouse must stand trial for the shooting death of two men and injury of another in Kenosha , Wisc.
, a judge ordered .
According to CNN , the 17-year-old Rittenhouse appeared in a preliminary conference virtually alongside his attorney , who attempted to have some of the charges dismissed .
The motions to dismiss were rejected by the court and Kenosha County Commissioner Loren Keating found that testimony of a detective on the case established probable cause that Rittenhouse was responsible for the crimes .
Rittenhouse is currently facing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Anthony Huber and Joseph Rosenbaum , as well as a felony attempted homicide charge for wounding Gaige Grosskreutz .
The incident occurred last August in Wisconsin during a protest over the shooting of Jacob Blake by Kenosha police .
Rittenhouse also faces a misdemeanor charge of possession of a dangerous weapon while under the age of 18 .
Attorneys for Rittenhouse have repeatedly argued he was acting in self-defense .
The proto-Trump youth has become a sensation among Republicans .
The Trump administration even gave its surrogates positive talking points to use when @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on bail almost two weeks ago after glorified pillow salesman Mike Lindell , and C-tier relic of the ’ 80s Ricky Schroeder , helped raise the $ 2 million cash bail necessary .
If this doesn ’ t prove to you in the clearest terms that whiteness will always protect whiteness , I really don ’ t know what will .
Oh , and quick sidenote : fuck Rick Schroeder , y ’ all .
Like .
How are you going to find literally the worst way to regain a minor bit of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Do you know how awful you have to be to be notably trash in a year like this ?
Rittenhouse is set to be arraigned on Jan. 5 in Kenosha County Circuit Court .
The man who allegedly supplied Rittenhouse with the gun is also facing felony charges .

Almost two weeks after being released on bail, Kyle Rittenhouse must stand trial for the shooting death of two men and injury of another in Kenosha, Wisc., a judge ordered.
According to CNN, the 17-year-old Rittenhouse appeared in a preliminary conference virtually alongside his attorney, who attempted to have some of the charges dismissed. The motions to dismiss were rejected by the court and Kenosha County Commissioner Loren Keating found that testimony of a detective on the case established probable cause that Rittenhouse was responsible for the crimes.
Advertisement
Rittenhouse is currently facing two felony homicide charges for fatally shooting Anthony Huber and Joseph Rosenbaum, as well as a felony attempted homicide charge for wounding Gaige Grosskreutz. The incident occurred last August in Wisconsin during a protest over the shooting of Jacob Blake by Kenosha police.
Rittenhouse also faces a misdemeanor charge of possession of a dangerous weapon while under the age of 18. Attorneys for Rittenhouse have repeatedly argued he was acting in self-defense.
Advertisement Advertisement
The proto-Trump youth has become a sensation among domestic terrorists white nationalists Republicans. The Trump administration even gave its surrogates positive talking points to use when discussing the teen.
Rittenhouse was released on bail almost two weeks ago after glorified pillow salesman Mike Lindell, and C-tier relic of the ’80s Ricky Schroeder, helped raise the $2 million cash bail necessary.
Advertisement
If this doesn’t prove to you in the clearest terms that whiteness will always protect whiteness, I really don’t know what will.
Oh, and quick sidenote: fuck Rick Schroeder, y’all. Like. How are you going to find literally the worst way to regain a minor bit of relevancy? In 2020 at that! Do you know how awful you have to be to be notably trash in a year like this?
Advertisement
Rittenhouse is set to be arraigned on Jan. 5 in Kenosha County Circuit Court. The man who allegedly supplied Rittenhouse with the gun is also facing felony charges.


theroot--2020-12-03--Its Price Is Unpredictable but in the End It's Right, This Ibanez Is $299

Take it from me , someone who occasionally gets drunk and starts playing the same three chords repeatedly before ultimately putting it back on the wall and watching old NPR Tiny Desk videos of people who don ’ t suck at guitar : there ’ s no better time than like the present to learn a musical instrument .
And this Ibanez acoustic electric guitar seems like a good place to start for a reasonable price , $ 300 at Adorama , down 33 % from the sticker tag .
Because it ’ s an acoustic electric , the AEG50N @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with an LCD tuner , two control knobs , volume , and shape .
Hook it up to an amp and annoy your lousy neighbors by putting on your own personal garage show .
The Japanese brand has quite the reputation among musicians .
While I wasn ’ t able to find a review of this exact model , Guitar Society called the similar , albeit analog acoustic , Ibanez AC240 's sound “ warm , detailed , and defined ” in its roundup of the best Ibanez guitars .
Because you ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ll also get the option of 6-month financing , in case you can ’ t afford or don ’ t want to pay upfront .
You can purchase extended warranties starting at $ 69 , but considering the manufacturer ’ s warranty lasts a lifetime , I ’ m not sure it ’ s necessary .
And yeah , I know it ’ s actually $ 300 and not $ 299 but the headline doesn ’ t rhyme otherwise .
If there ’ s one thing I know about success in music , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ over literally everything else .

Gabe Carey on Kinja Deals, shared by Gabe Carey to The Root

Ibanez AEG50N Acoustic Electric Guitar | $300 | Adorama
Take it from me, someone who occasionally gets drunk and starts playing the same three chords repeatedly before ultimately putting it back on the wall and watching old NPR Tiny Desk videos of people who don’t suck at guitar: there’s no better time than like the present to learn a musical instrument. And this Ibanez acoustic electric guitar seems like a good place to start for a reasonable price, $300 at Adorama, down 33% from the sticker tag. Because it’s an acoustic electric, the AEG50N comes with a built-on preamp, complete with an LCD tuner, two control knobs, volume, and shape. Hook it up to an amp and annoy your lousy neighbors by putting on your own personal garage show.
The Japanese brand has quite the reputation among musicians. While I wasn’t able to find a review of this exact model, Guitar Society called the similar, albeit analog acoustic, Ibanez AC240's sound “warm, detailed, and defined” in its roundup of the best Ibanez guitars. Because you’re buying from Adorama, you’ll also get the option of 6-month financing, in case you can’t afford or don’t want to pay upfront. You can purchase extended warranties starting at $69, but considering the manufacturer’s warranty lasts a lifetime, I’m not sure it’s necessary. And yeah, I know it’s actually $300 and not $299 but the headline doesn’t rhyme otherwise. If there’s one thing I know about success in music, it’s the importance of rhyming over literally everything else.


theroot--2020-12-04--From 'WAP' to Woman of the Year: Cardi B Receives Annual Billboard Honor

Ahead of its 15th Annual Women in Music event , Billboard released its Women of Music issue , highlighting a handful of this year ’ s most impactful female artists such as Chloe x Halle , Dua Lipa , JLo , Dolly Parton and Jessica Reyes .
But the standout star—or perhaps more fittingly , Woman of the Year , is none other than Bodak Yellow rapper Cardi B .
In her interview with Billboard , the Bronx native spoke on everything from social justice to her controversial ( was it really , though ? )
hit “ WAP ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a role model for other young women and how she defines happiness amidst a crazy-ass year .
“ I ’ m not gon na front—this has been a bad year due to work .
You can ’ t do shows and you got ta wait on deals , ” she revealed to Billboard .
“ But I ’ m really happy because I have spent so much time with my family .
I feel like I haven ’ t laughed like I have in 2020 .
My daughter ( Kulture Kiari , 2 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ m with her every single day .
That ’ s what brings me happiness.
” The maternal side of Cardi has arguably been put on display more this year than before , thanks to the consistent display of hilarious and highly adorable Kulture content on Instagram .
When asked how she plans to shield her mini-me from the slippery slope of social media comments and haters , the “ Please Me ” singer explained : I ’ m a little scared that she gets to read nasty comments , but I don @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gon na be able to control it .
I heard about a celebrity who gives their kid life coaching on how to love themselves and not let people break them .
Hopefully , I can do the same thing .
My kid is really sassy , I can tell she ’ s gon na be a personality .
I always want her to know that she ’ s beautiful .
She knows what type of person I am , and when she gets older , clearly she ’ s gon na hear me @ @ @ @ @ @ @ same damn house .
I just want her to know : I might be a little crazy , but I have a good heart and I love her .
I want her to be confident always .
Don ’ t let one comment break you and make you feel like you ’ re not that girl .
You that girl .
The Billboard Women in Music event will be taking place next Thursday , Dec 10 at 8 pm ET only on billboardwomeninmusic.com .

Shanelle Genai on The Grapevine, shared by Shanelle Genai to The Root

Ahead of its 15th Annual Women in Music event, Billboard released its Women of Music issue, highlighting a handful of this year’s most impactful female artists such as Chloe x Halle, Dua Lipa, JLo, Dolly Parton and Jessica Reyes. But the standout star—or perhaps more fittingly, Woman of the Year, is none other than Bodak Yellow rapper Cardi B.
In her interview with Billboard, the Bronx native spoke on everything from social justice to her controversial (was it really, though?) hit “WAP”, whether or not she considers herself a role model for other young women and how she defines happiness amidst a crazy-ass year.
Advertisement
“I’m not gonna front—this has been a bad year due to work. You can’t do shows and you gotta wait on deals,” she revealed to Billboard. “But I’m really happy because I have spent so much time with my family. I feel like I haven’t laughed like I have in 2020. My daughter (Kulture Kiari, 2) is so funny, and I’m with her every single day. That’s what brings me happiness.” The maternal side of Cardi has arguably been put on display more this year than before, thanks to the consistent display of hilarious and highly adorable Kulture content on Instagram. When asked how she plans to shield her mini-me from the slippery slope of social media comments and haters, the “Please Me” singer explained:
I’m a little scared that she gets to read nasty comments, but I don’t know how I’m gonna be able to control it. I heard about a celebrity who gives their kid life coaching on how to love themselves and not let people break them. Hopefully, I can do the same thing. My kid is really sassy, I can tell she’s gonna be a personality. I always want her to know that she’s beautiful. She knows what type of person I am, and when she gets older, clearly she’s gonna hear me expressing myself because we live in the same damn house. I just want her to know: I might be a little crazy, but I have a good heart and I love her. I want her to be confident always. Don’t let one comment break you and make you feel like you’re not that girl. You that girl.
Advertisement Advertisement
The Billboard Women in Music event will be taking place next Thursday, Dec 10 at 8 pm ET only on billboardwomeninmusic.com.


theroot--2020-12-04--LAPD Layoffs Being Considered in Los Angeles’ Budget Proposal

The ongoing pandemic has affected all aspects of American life , with the virus taking a financial toll on people , businesses , and even whole-ass cities .
Los Angeles , which is currently in the midst of a financial crisis as a result of the pandemic , is considering laying off police officers to help solve its financial woes .
“ Layoff the police ” isn ’ t as catchy , but go off , I suppose .
According to the Los Angeles Times , the city is facing a potential budget deficit of $ 600 million and Los @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on Wednesday that the Los Angeles Police Department may face layoffs as a result .
The budget for the LAPD was already reduced in June by $ 150 million , resulting in staffing levels hitting their lowest number in 12 years .
Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti told the Los Angeles Times that while he hopes to avoid layoffs of any city employees , the city is keeping all options on the table when it comes to managing its budget crisis .
“ It is my hope we will do everything we can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ So , I know it ’ s kind of sexy to lead with the worst .
But I hope that ’ s at the very bottom of our list.
” Los Angeles City Councilman Paul Krekorian told the Times that he believes layoffs are inevitable if they don ’ t receive federal assistance or employee unions don ’ t make concessions .
“ I don ’ t see a way to avoid layoffs of city employees , and I do not think it would make sense to exempt any category of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , head of the council ’ s Budget and Finance Committee , told the Times .
These potential layoffs come at a rather tumultuous time for the city .
While the pandemic has resulted in a 9 percent overall decrease in crime , there has been a 20 percent increase in murder , according to a report by Crosstown .
“ Unfortunately , this is not make-believe , and these proposed cuts will lead to thousands of more violent crime victims , 70 percent being Black or Hispanic , and devastate thousands of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the Los Angeles Police Protective League , told the Times .
“ Whoever cooked up this approach clearly does not care about our communities overwhelmed by violence.
” I mean , the LAPD has historically done its part to overwhelm those communities with violence so let ’ s not get too carried away here , my guy .
Garcetti already requested the city look into a “ potential layoff scenario ” back in September , so this isn ’ t exactly a shocking development .
The city asked the Police Protective League @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as a result of the financial crisis , but they declined .
Their current agreement would see union members receiving a 3.25 percent increase in pay next month .
So if you ’ re a Los Angeles cop , it ’ s basically a dice roll on whether you ’ re going to get a raise or you ’ re going to be out of a job .
The LAPD isn ’ t the only organization facing potential layoffs , and city officials are expected to begin furloughing civilian workers next month .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” all day over here , I don ’ t think I ’ m wrong in hoping the city can come to a budget proposal that doesn ’ t result in countless civilian workers being put out of work during a surging pandemic .

The ongoing pandemic has affected all aspects of American life, with the virus taking a financial toll on people, businesses, and even whole-ass cities. Los Angeles, which is currently in the midst of a financial crisis as a result of the pandemic, is considering laying off police officers to help solve its financial woes.
“Layoff the police” isn’t as catchy, but go off, I suppose.
According to the Los Angeles Times, the city is facing a potential budget deficit of $600 million and Los Angeles Police Chief Michel Moore told reporters on Wednesday that the Los Angeles Police Department may face layoffs as a result. The budget for the LAPD was already reduced in June by $150 million, resulting in staffing levels hitting their lowest number in 12 years.
Advertisement
Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti told the Los Angeles Times that while he hopes to avoid layoffs of any city employees, the city is keeping all options on the table when it comes to managing its budget crisis.
“It is my hope we will do everything we can to avoid layoffs,” Garcetti said. “So, I know it’s kind of sexy to lead with the worst. But I hope that’s at the very bottom of our list.”
Advertisement Advertisement
Los Angeles City Councilman Paul Krekorian told the Times that he believes layoffs are inevitable if they don’t receive federal assistance or employee unions don’t make concessions.
“I don’t see a way to avoid layoffs of city employees, and I do not think it would make sense to exempt any category of employees in doing that,” Krekorian, head of the council’s Budget and Finance Committee, told the Times.
Advertisement
These potential layoffs come at a rather tumultuous time for the city. While the pandemic has resulted in a 9 percent overall decrease in crime, there has been a 20 percent increase in murder, according to a report by Crosstown.
“Unfortunately, this is not make-believe, and these proposed cuts will lead to thousands of more violent crime victims, 70 percent being Black or Hispanic, and devastate thousands of families,” Craig Lally, president of the Los Angeles Police Protective League, told the Times.
Advertisement
“Whoever cooked up this approach clearly does not care about our communities overwhelmed by violence.”
I mean, the LAPD has historically done its part to overwhelm those communities with violence so let’s not get too carried away here, my guy.
Advertisement
Garcetti already requested the city look into a “potential layoff scenario” back in September, so this isn’t exactly a shocking development. The city asked the Police Protective League to come back to the bargaining table as a result of the financial crisis, but they declined. Their current agreement would see union members receiving a 3.25 percent increase in pay next month.
So if you’re a Los Angeles cop, it’s basically a dice roll on whether you’re going to get a raise or you’re going to be out of a job.
Advertisement
The LAPD isn’t the only organization facing potential layoffs, and city officials are expected to begin furloughing civilian workers next month.
While it’s “fuck 12” all day over here, I don’t think I’m wrong in hoping the city can come to a budget proposal that doesn’t result in countless civilian workers being put out of work during a surging pandemic.


theroot--2020-12-03--Law Enforcement Training Association Promotes Documents That Falsely Call BLM a Terrorist Group

It ’ s no secret that there are plenty of people in America who have a lot of contempt for the Black Lives Matter movement .
And that ’ s fine ; those people are well within their rights to be loud , wrong and racist , just as I am within my rights to call them boot-licking beyotches who don ’ t know what the hell they ’ re talking about .
But what happens when lies are spread and propaganda is adopted by people in power ?
What if , say , an agency that trains law enforcement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ potentially affect anyone who dares to join the fight against systemic racism in policing ?
Well , it looks like one law enforcement training group is doing just that by circulating lying-ass documents that claim BLM is a terrorist group bent on overthrowing the government .
From the Associated Press : The document distributed by the International Law Enforcement Educators and Trainers Association contains misinformation and inflammatory rhetoric that could incite officers against protesters and people of color , critics said .
It alleges Black Lives Matter and antifa , an umbrella term @ @ @ @ @ @ @ movements whose aims are to overthrow the U.S. government ” and claims they are planning “ extreme violence.
” The association in October sent a link to the 176-page paper , “ Understanding Antifa and Urban Guerrilla Warfare , ” in an email news update to its thousands of members .
The document , labeled “ restricted to law enforcement only , ” is one of the few publicly available materials on its website .
The Associated Press learned of the document from one of the policing organization ’ s members .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Hedden , defended the document , which he called one member ’ s opinion and open for critique and debate .
He said the association supports the exchange of ideas and strategies to improve criminal justice training but does not endorse specific approaches .
Hedden argued that fact-checking the paper or restricting its distribution would amount to censorship and that its publication would allow for peer review by other trainers .
“ There will always be differences of opinion on training issues but so long as the disagreements remain professional and not personal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” he said .
“ I am willing to allow the trainer to evaluate the information themselves.
” He added , “ Just like law enforcement , I am afraid BLM has earned some of these criticisms and others might be overgeneralizations.
” OK , so first of all : Fact-checking is not censorship .
If a person says a thing , and I respond by saying , “ Nah bruh , that ’ s not true , and here ’ s why , ” I haven ’ t silenced said that person @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Restricting my right to do so would be censorship .
Now let ’ s unpack the statement : “ Just like law enforcement , I am afraid BLM has earned some of these criticisms and others might be overgeneralizations.
” Listen : A civilian like myself can get up on social media—or even this platform—and say that cops ain ’ t shit , but I don ’ t have the power to police the practices and actions of police officers .
ILEETA , on the other hand , is distributing false information to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ police the general public—and pack their biases and ignorance right along with their batons and service weapons while they do it .
So let ’ s not pretend this is a “ what ’ s good for the goose ” type of situation .
After all , we ’ re not talking about some rinky-dink association that has no real influence on law enforcement ; we ’ re talking about an agency that hosts an annual conference it touts as the “ largest gathering of law enforcement trainers in the world , ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ experts , activists and others agree that it ’ s complete bullshit for a law enforcement training group to circulate a document like this .
Goff also said he spoke with police officials who said they were “ disturbed ” by it .
Officials with racial justice organization Color of Change called on police departments to cut ties with ILEETA on Wednesday .
“ This is disturbing to read but not at all surprising to me , ” Scott Roberts , senior director of criminal justice campaigns for Color of Change , said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ thinking that is sadly pretty prominent within police culture .
”

It’s no secret that there are plenty of people in America who have a lot of contempt for the Black Lives Matter movement. And that’s fine; those people are well within their rights to be loud, wrong and racist, just as I am within my rights to call them boot-licking beyotches who don’t know what the hell they’re talking about. But what happens when lies are spread and propaganda is adopted by people in power? What if, say, an agency that trains law enforcement officers starts promoting dangerous falsehoods that could potentially affect anyone who dares to join the fight against systemic racism in policing? Well, it looks like one law enforcement training group is doing just that by circulating lying-ass documents that claim BLM is a terrorist group bent on overthrowing the government.
From the Associated Press:
The document distributed by the International Law Enforcement Educators and Trainers Association contains misinformation and inflammatory rhetoric that could incite officers against protesters and people of color, critics said. It alleges Black Lives Matter and antifa, an umbrella term for leftist militants, are “revolutionary movements whose aims are to overthrow the U.S. government” and claims they are planning “extreme violence.” The association in October sent a link to the 176-page paper, “Understanding Antifa and Urban Guerrilla Warfare,” in an email news update to its thousands of members. The document, labeled “restricted to law enforcement only,” is one of the few publicly available materials on its website. The Associated Press learned of the document from one of the policing organization’s members. The group’s executive director, Harvey Hedden, defended the document, which he called one member’s opinion and open for critique and debate. He said the association supports the exchange of ideas and strategies to improve criminal justice training but does not endorse specific approaches. Hedden argued that fact-checking the paper or restricting its distribution would amount to censorship and that its publication would allow for peer review by other trainers. “There will always be differences of opinion on training issues but so long as the disagreements remain professional and not personal we do not censor these ideas,” he said. “I am willing to allow the trainer to evaluate the information themselves.” He added, “Just like law enforcement, I am afraid BLM has earned some of these criticisms and others might be overgeneralizations.”
Advertisement
OK, so first of all: Fact-checking is not censorship. If a person says a thing, and I respond by saying, “Nah bruh, that’s not true, and here’s why,” I haven’t silenced said that person; I only challenged their idea. Restricting my right to do so would be censorship.
Now let’s unpack the statement: “Just like law enforcement, I am afraid BLM has earned some of these criticisms and others might be overgeneralizations.”
Advertisement Advertisement
Listen: A civilian like myself can get up on social media—or even this platform—and say that cops ain’t shit, but I don’t have the power to police the practices and actions of police officers. ILEETA, on the other hand, is distributing false information to officers who are given the authority to police the general public—and pack their biases and ignorance right along with their batons and service weapons while they do it. So let’s not pretend this is a “what’s good for the goose” type of situation.
After all, we’re not talking about some rinky-dink association that has no real influence on law enforcement; we’re talking about an agency that hosts an annual conference it touts as the “largest gathering of law enforcement trainers in the world,” according to AP.
Advertisement
Anyway, legal experts, activists and others agree that it’s complete bullshit for a law enforcement training group to circulate a document like this.
More from AP:
Phillip Atiba Goff, a Yale University professor who is an expert on racial bias in policing, called the document dangerous, noting that the association is an important source of training materials for many small and midsize departments across the country. “It’s stunning. It’s distressing in many ways. It’s untethered to reality,” said Goff, CEO of the Center for Policing Equity. “I worry that it leads to people dying unnecessarily.”
Advertisement
Goff also said he spoke with police officials who said they were “disturbed” by it.
Officials with racial justice organization Color of Change called on police departments to cut ties with ILEETA on Wednesday.
Advertisement
“This is disturbing to read but not at all surprising to me,” Scott Roberts, senior director of criminal justice campaigns for Color of Change, said. “This is the type of thinking that is sadly pretty prominent within police culture.”
And that’s the problem.


theroot--2020-12-03--Deck the Halls With All the Stuff You Need to Get Your Home Christmas-Ready

I have to be honest with you , I ’ ve never decorated for Christmas .
My Christmas has been full of looking at other people ’ s decorations , but this year , I wanted to change things up .
Christmas is my favorite holiday of the year and I ’ m looking forward to adding some of the warmth into my humble abode .
Browsing through holiday decorations can be overwhelming , there are so many options to choose from .
I ’ ve sorted through the chaos , finding the best decor to brighten your abode and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The Lively Root Juniper & Cedar holiday wreath is exactly what you , and I , need to brighten our doors and bring in the holiday spirit without much fuss .
The wreath is not a plastic decoration , it ’ s made to order with *fresh* noble fir , juniper , and cedar to bring the scent of the holidays to your doorstep , as well as the beauty of holiday greenery .
Plus , in the spirit of the season , Lively Root is offering 20 % off when you clip @ @ @ @ @ @ @ holding up Santa is just plain cute !
The pickup truck is full of thoughtful touches , like the elf in the driver ’ s seat and Santa is holding the tree topping star .
This whimsical addition to your Christmas tree is going to light up your face every single time you catch a glance and give you something to talk about during your family Zoom calls .
What better way to commemorate the circus of a year we ’ ve had than with a toilet paper ornament to remember it by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ World Christmas ornaments are hand-crafted and truly works of art , you can find pretty much anything your heart desires for your tree .
My wife and I fell in love with the tortoise , cat , and kitchen aid ornaments , all symbolizing our little family and our milestones this year .
We got married and were gifted our first KitchenAid , and of course , our pets just have to be showcased on the tree .
Macy ’ s uses special technology to make this Nordic spruce tabletop tree feel and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tree is not in the cards for you this year , this one will certainly make your home feel like the holidays , and it ’ s not too shabby either .
Outfitted with a burlap base , it holds 50 pre-strung energy-efficient LED lights that are energy-efficient and on a timer for 6 hours ON and 18 hours OFF .
Ornament Anchor was created by Ayaan Naqvi , a 12-year-old boy who was tired of ornaments falling off the tree .
If you , too , treasure the ornaments you hang , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Ornament Anchors to keep them , safely , attached to your Christmas tree .
Haven ’ t added lights because you ’ re worried about driving up your electric bill ?
These cordless microlights are the perfect twinkling addition to your windows , wreath , or even to decorate your tree ( might need a few sets for that ) .
The 60-count set is available in traditional holiday green and in a glamorous white suitable for all year use .
Your tablescape wouldn ’ t be complete without this glamorous sleigh @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lends a romantic glow and acts as a conversation starter .
It ’ s also versatile and easily moveable from the table to your mantle , making it the perfect holiday decor .
Family can feel so far away this holiday season as we stay secluded to keep everyone safe .
Greetabl makes custom ornaments with photos of family members , fur babies , or whoever you need to keep close to your heart right now .
Both are fabulous momentos for the tree .
If you don ’ t have the energy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I understand .
It ’ s a tough year , and getting into a holiday mood is far from easy .
So take the easier route and get yourself a few holiday-friendly masks and let the Santa hats and ho , ho , hos lift your spirits .
To sweeten the pot , these are easily some of the best fitting masks on the market right now .
And if you can ’ t afford them , Rafi Nova offers a pay what you can option as well .

Chaya M Milchtein on The Inventory, shared by Gabe Carey to The Root

Top Product: Lively Root Holiday Wreath | $66 | Amazon | Clip Coupon
I have to be honest with you, I’ve never decorated for Christmas. My Christmas has been full of looking at other people’s decorations, but this year, I wanted to change things up. Christmas is my favorite holiday of the year and I’m looking forward to adding some of the warmth into my humble abode. Browsing through holiday decorations can be overwhelming, there are so many options to choose from. I’ve sorted through the chaos, finding the best decor to brighten your abode and flood you with the holiday spirit.
The Lively Root Juniper & Cedar holiday wreath is exactly what you, and I, need to brighten our doors and bring in the holiday spirit without much fuss. The wreath is not a plastic decoration, it’s made to order with *fresh* noble fir, juniper, and cedar to bring the scent of the holidays to your doorstep, as well as the beauty of holiday greenery. Plus, in the spirit of the season, Lively Root is offering 20% off when you clip the on-page coupon.
Advertisement
Advertisement Advertisement
This cherry picker holding up Santa is just plain cute! The pickup truck is full of thoughtful touches, like the elf in the driver’s seat and Santa is holding the tree topping star. This whimsical addition to your Christmas tree is going to light up your face every single time you catch a glance and give you something to talk about during your family Zoom calls.
Advertisement
What better way to commemorate the circus of a year we’ve had than with a toilet paper ornament to remember it by every year when you decorate? Old World Christmas ornaments are hand-crafted and truly works of art, you can find pretty much anything your heart desires for your tree. My wife and I fell in love with the tortoise, cat, and kitchen aid ornaments, all symbolizing our little family and our milestones this year. We got married and were gifted our first KitchenAid, and of course, our pets just have to be showcased on the tree.
Advertisement
Macy’s uses special technology to make this Nordic spruce tabletop tree feel and look extremely realistic. If a full-size tree is not in the cards for you this year, this one will certainly make your home feel like the holidays, and it’s not too shabby either. Outfitted with a burlap base, it holds 50 pre-strung energy-efficient LED lights that are energy-efficient and on a timer for 6 hours ON and 18 hours OFF.
Advertisement
Ornament Anchor was created by Ayaan Naqvi, a 12-year-old boy who was tired of ornaments falling off the tree. If you, too, treasure the ornaments you hang, you absolutely must buy yourself a pack of Ornament Anchors to keep them, safely, attached to your Christmas tree.
Advertisement
Haven’t added lights because you’re worried about driving up your electric bill? These cordless microlights are the perfect twinkling addition to your windows, wreath, or even to decorate your tree (might need a few sets for that). The 60-count set is available in traditional holiday green and in a glamorous white suitable for all year use.
Advertisement
Your tablescape wouldn’t be complete without this glamorous sleigh. Complete with LED lights, it lends a romantic glow and acts as a conversation starter. It’s also versatile and easily moveable from the table to your mantle, making it the perfect holiday decor.
Advertisement
Family can feel so far away this holiday season as we stay secluded to keep everyone safe. Greetabl makes custom ornaments with photos of family members, fur babies, or whoever you need to keep close to your heart right now. Both are fabulous momentos for the tree.
Advertisement
If you don’t have the energy or will to decorate this year, I understand. It’s a tough year, and getting into a holiday mood is far from easy. So take the easier route and get yourself a few holiday-friendly masks and let the Santa hats and ho, ho, hos lift your spirits. To sweeten the pot, these are easily some of the best fitting masks on the market right now. And if you can’t afford them, Rafi Nova offers a pay what you can option as well.


theroot--2020-12-03--New Technology Could Provide Police Access to Real-Time Footage From Home Security Cameras

I don ’ t know why anyone thought this was a good idea , but apparently Jackson , Miss .
is experimenting with a pilot program that would give police the ability to access real-time video surveillance from your home security camera .
So did none of these people play Watch Dogs ?
Watch Psycho-Pass ?
Consume literally any media about the dangers of a surveillance state ?
No ?
Go figure .
According to NBC News , police in Jackson , Miss .
have partnered with Fusus , a Georgia-based company whose focus is on creating cost-effective surveillance networks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ new surveillance network .
The proposed network would give law enforcement the ability to access live , real-time footage of private and public security cameras .
Why are they doing this ?
Well , for the same reason anyone does anything in this country : money .
The pilot program is being explored by cities that are experiencing rising levels of crime but don ’ t have the resources to properly respond .
Take Jackson , for example .
The city has experienced rising crime rates over the last two years , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ found that the police department was using outdated technology , NBC News reports .
A series of shootings in 2019 , one of which involved a pastor being fatally shot outside of his church during a Sunday morning robbery , led Jackson Mayor Chokwe Lumumba to announce plans for a surveillance center in the state .
But progress on the center has been slow and piecemeal .
The $ 4 million that the state pledged hasn ’ t yet been allocated by the Legislature , so the city had to find other sources @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Justice Department grant last year to install dozens of surveillance cameras , recognizable by their flashing blue lights and able to send live feeds to police .
But older cameras on city-owned properties remained inaccessible for real-time surveillance .
Meanwhile , the urgency to address the city ’ s crime problem has only grown : In the first 11 months of the year , Jackson ’ s homicide count has already surpassed that of 1995 , its deadliest year on record .
The trial program with Fusus was attractive to Jackson officials because @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cost of surveillance onto businesses and homeowners who purchase devices from the company .
The way the program with Fusus is designed is that people can add their home security cameras , such as the popular Ring system , to a registry that will allow police officers to access their home cameras in the event of a crime .
Those who register can choose how much they want to share , with options ranging from no video at all to an all-day continuous stream .
The tech doesn ’ t utilize facial recognition @ @ @ @ @ @ @ track a person by their behavior , clothes , and car .
I don ’ t know why , but tracking people by their behavior seems a bit scarier than simply facial recognition .
Law enforcement using home surveillance cameras isn ’ t exactly new , as Ring has quietly spent the last few years working with law enforcement to build an ad-hoc surveillance network .
According to Vice , the company would provide law enforcement agencies around the country with maps that would show where all the Ring cameras are located within @ @ @ @ @ @ @ created a portal that would allow cops to request that homeowners submit footage from their Ring camera if they believe a crime has occurred in the area .
Fusus takes it one step further by allowing direct access to those cameras .
It ’ s one thing for cops to request access to what essentially is just a bunch of video clips .
It ’ s a different beast when they can directly access a livestream of your camera .
Basically , The Dark Knight explained why this is morally questionable at best @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not doing anything nefarious here , ” Sahil Merchant , Fusus ’ chief strategy officer , told NBC News .
“ We ’ re doing this for public safety , not at the cost of people ’ s civil liberties or privacy , because it ’ s all up to the individual user to share.
” Matthew Guariglia , a policy analyst with the Electronic Frontier Foundation , a non profit with a focus on informing the public about surveillance technology , told NBC News that he has serious concerns about how this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , non violent crimes and the ethical implications that can arise from it .
“ If the police can access your camera without a warrant because you gave them permission because you want to help them fight crime , what ’ s to stop an officer from peering through the camera of a young woman after she gets home from work ?
” Guariglia told NBC News .
At the moment , the program in Jackson is currently only accessing cameras on city property .
The launch of the final phase , which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the program , is still pending a legal review .
Despite no date being given , Fusus devices have already begun to be sold in the city .
Jackson isn ’ t the only city exploring working with Fusus , either .
The City Commission of Ocoee , Fla. , approved a similar trial run of the devices , with the department intending to ask homeowners and businesses for advanced permission to access their cameras .
Other cities , such as Minneapolis , and Rialto , Calif. , have worked with Fusus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with businesses , with very little , if any , focus on using home surveillance .
City officials and residents of Jackson , a predominantly Black city where a fourth of its residents live under the poverty line , have mixed feelings on the heightened surveillance .
“ I don ’ t believe the government should be tapping into my Ring , ” Jackson City Council member De ’ Keither Stamps told the news outlet while expressing concerns about what safeguards were in place to prevent misuse .
“ I don ’ t @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Aaron Banks , the president of the Jackson City Council , told NBC News that while the increased surveillance could help fight crime , he doesn ’ t think it should be in exchange for people ’ s personal privacy .
“ People don ’ t want to feel like there ’ s an eye in the sky watching them , ” Banks told NBC News .
“ They want to do what they do on an everyday basis and feel free to do it .
”

I don’t know why anyone thought this was a good idea, but apparently Jackson, Miss. is experimenting with a pilot program that would give police the ability to access real-time video surveillance from your home security camera.
So did none of these people play Watch Dogs? Watch Psycho-Pass? Consume literally any media about the dangers of a surveillance state? No? Go figure.
Advertisement
According to NBC News, police in Jackson, Miss. have partnered with Fusus, a Georgia-based company whose focus is on creating cost-effective surveillance networks for law enforcement, to build a new surveillance network. The proposed network would give law enforcement the ability to access live, real-time footage of private and public security cameras.
Why are they doing this? Well, for the same reason anyone does anything in this country: money.
Advertisement Advertisement
The pilot program is being explored by cities that are experiencing rising levels of crime but don’t have the resources to properly respond. Take Jackson, for example. The city has experienced rising crime rates over the last two years, and an investigation by the Department of Justice found that the police department was using outdated technology, NBC News reports.
A series of shootings in 2019, one of which involved a pastor being fatally shot outside of his church during a Sunday morning robbery, led Jackson Mayor Chokwe Lumumba to announce plans for a surveillance center in the state.
Advertisement
From NBC News:
But progress on the center has been slow and piecemeal. The $4 million that the state pledged hasn’t yet been allocated by the Legislature, so the city had to find other sources of funding. Jackson police used a Justice Department grant last year to install dozens of surveillance cameras, recognizable by their flashing blue lights and able to send live feeds to police. But older cameras on city-owned properties remained inaccessible for real-time surveillance. Meanwhile, the urgency to address the city’s crime problem has only grown: In the first 11 months of the year, Jackson’s homicide count has already surpassed that of 1995, its deadliest year on record. The trial program with Fusus was attractive to Jackson officials because it helps save money by passing the cost of surveillance onto businesses and homeowners who purchase devices from the company.
Advertisement
The way the program with Fusus is designed is that people can add their home security cameras, such as the popular Ring system, to a registry that will allow police officers to access their home cameras in the event of a crime. Those who register can choose how much they want to share, with options ranging from no video at all to an all-day continuous stream.
The tech doesn’t utilize facial recognition technology but does use tech that can track a person by their behavior, clothes, and car. I don’t know why, but tracking people by their behavior seems a bit scarier than simply facial recognition.
Advertisement
Law enforcement using home surveillance cameras isn’t exactly new, as Ring has quietly spent the last few years working with law enforcement to build an ad-hoc surveillance network.
According to Vice, the company would provide law enforcement agencies around the country with maps that would show where all the Ring cameras are located within a given neighborhood. The company also created a portal that would allow cops to request that homeowners submit footage from their Ring camera if they believe a crime has occurred in the area.
Advertisement
Fusus takes it one step further by allowing direct access to those cameras. It’s one thing for cops to request access to what essentially is just a bunch of video clips. It’s a different beast when they can directly access a livestream of your camera. Basically, The Dark Knight explained why this is morally questionable at best in 2008.
“We’re not doing anything nefarious here,” Sahil Merchant, Fusus’ chief strategy officer, told NBC News. “We’re doing this for public safety, not at the cost of people’s civil liberties or privacy, because it’s all up to the individual user to share.”
Advertisement
Matthew Guariglia, a policy analyst with the Electronic Frontier Foundation, a non profit with a focus on informing the public about surveillance technology, told NBC News that he has serious concerns about how this technology could lead to over-policing of small, non violent crimes and the ethical implications that can arise from it.
“If the police can access your camera without a warrant because you gave them permission because you want to help them fight crime, what’s to stop an officer from peering through the camera of a young woman after she gets home from work?” Guariglia told NBC News.
Advertisement
At the moment, the program in Jackson is currently only accessing cameras on city property. The launch of the final phase, which will allow businesses and homeowners to opt-in to the program, is still pending a legal review. Despite no date being given, Fusus devices have already begun to be sold in the city.
Jackson isn’t the only city exploring working with Fusus, either. The City Commission of Ocoee, Fla., approved a similar trial run of the devices, with the department intending to ask homeowners and businesses for advanced permission to access their cameras. Other cities, such as Minneapolis, and Rialto, Calif., have worked with Fusus to build surveillance systems that mainly work with businesses, with very little, if any, focus on using home surveillance.
Advertisement
City officials and residents of Jackson , a predominantly Black city where a fourth of its residents live under the poverty line, have mixed feelings on the heightened surveillance.
“I don’t believe the government should be tapping into my Ring,” Jackson City Council member De’Keither Stamps told the news outlet while expressing concerns about what safeguards were in place to prevent misuse. “I don’t believe we should be sponsoring this.”
Advertisement
Aaron Banks, the president of the Jackson City Council, told NBC News that while the increased surveillance could help fight crime, he doesn’t think it should be in exchange for people’s personal privacy.
“People don’t want to feel like there’s an eye in the sky watching them,” Banks told NBC News. “They want to do what they do on an everyday basis and feel free to do it.”


theroot--2020-12-03--Love Looks Better: Alicia Keys' Soulcare Goes Live

Another week , another celeb-fueled beauty line makes its way to the masses , just in time for holiday gift-giving and this time via Grammy-winning natural skincare guru Alicia Keys .
Following hot on the heels of the drop of Pharrell Williams ’ Humanrace and teasers for JLo ’ s upcoming line , Keys Soulcare First Ritual launched today , December 3 via its own website and online at Ulta .
To be fair , Keys actually teased her move into the beauty and wellness space months ago ; it was August when she announced a new partnership with e.l.f @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lip , face , and paw ” ) , soon after launching Soulcare as a wellness destination .
Details on the new lifestyle beauty brand ’ s first drop of products , the “ First Ritual , ” were provided to The Glow Up via a press release : Today , Keys Soulcare , Alicia Keys ’ new lifestyle beauty brand , unveils the First Ritual , featuring the Sage + Oat Milk Candle , Skin Transformation Cream and Obsidian Facial Roller .
Through the combination of content and product offerings , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ beauty and help others develop their own daily self care and self love rituals - grounding practices that connect us to ourselves in new ways .
Each product in the line of clean , cruelty-free , dermatologist-developed offerings includes a unique affirmation to honor ritual in our daily life and practice intention in every action .
Each product in the first “ ritual ” is accompanied by an affirmation ( presumably penned by Keys herself ) and is described as follows : Description : Our signature candle is an invitation to relax , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ center .
The sage exudes a smoky , calming warmth while oat milk soothes the mind and body with its sweet , nutty fragrance .
Affirmation : I welcome all circumstances as catalysts for change .
Description : Developed in partnership with a board-certified dermatologist , this potent yet gentle , clean formula , hydrates and nourishes for plumped and radiant skin .
Bakuchiol , malachite ( known as the stone of transformation ) , ceramides and hyaluronic acid help to renew skin .
Description : Treat yourself to a gentle stimulating massage @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is a volcanic glass created from quickly cooled lava .
The roller will feel cool to the touch helping skin feel revitalized while improving skin tone and texture .
For an enhanced experience , use with the Transformation Cream to help absorb easily into skin .
Per the brand , the product line was developed “ based on Alicia ’ s own skincare experiences and desire for truly efficacious formulas and soul-nourishing rituals , ” in partnership with Austin , Texas-based , Board Certified Dermatologist Dr. Renée Snyder , who also co-founded e.l.f @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Ranging in price from $ 25- $ 38 , the first three-piece ritual is the precursor to a full collection launch which will include skincare , body care , haircare and more when it launches in early 2021 .

Another week, another celeb-fueled beauty line makes its way to the masses, just in time for holiday gift-giving and this time via Grammy-winning natural skincare guru Alicia Keys. Following hot on the heels of the drop of Pharrell Williams’ Humanrace and teasers for JLo’s upcoming line, Keys Soulcare First Ritual launched today, December 3 via its own website and online at Ulta.
Advertisement
To be fair, Keys actually teased her move into the beauty and wellness space months ago; it was August when she announced a new partnership with e.l.f. Beauty (“every eye, lip, face, and paw”), soon after launching Soulcare as a wellness destination. Details on the new lifestyle beauty brand’s first drop of products, the “First Ritual,” were provided to The Glow Up via a press release:
Today, Keys Soulcare, Alicia Keys’ new lifestyle beauty brand, unveils the First Ritual, featuring the Sage + Oat Milk Candle, Skin Transformation Cream and Obsidian Facial Roller. Through the combination of content and product offerings, the brand aims to bring new meaning to beauty and help others develop their own daily self care and self love rituals - grounding practices that connect us to ourselves in new ways. Each product in the line of clean, cruelty-free, dermatologist-developed offerings includes a unique affirmation to honor ritual in our daily life and practice intention in every action.
Advertisement Advertisement
Each product in the first “ritual” is accompanied by an affirmation (presumably penned by Keys herself) and is described as follows:
Sage + Oat Milk Candle ($38) Affirmation: I shine at full wattage Description: Our signature candle is an invitation to relax, press reset, and come back to center. The sage exudes a smoky, calming warmth while oat milk soothes the mind and body with its sweet, nutty fragrance. Skin Transformation Cream ($30) Affirmation: I welcome all circumstances as catalysts for change. Description: Developed in partnership with a board-certified dermatologist, this potent yet gentle, clean formula, hydrates and nourishes for plumped and radiant skin. Bakuchiol, malachite (known as the stone of transformation), ceramides and hyaluronic acid help to renew skin. Obsidian Facial Roller ($25) Affirmation: I am strong, capable and unstoppable. Description: Treat yourself to a gentle stimulating massage with our Obsidian Roller. Obsidian stone is a volcanic glass created from quickly cooled lava. The roller will feel cool to the touch helping skin feel revitalized while improving skin tone and texture. For an enhanced experience, use with the Transformation Cream to help absorb easily into skin.
Advertisement
Per the brand, the product line was developed “based on Alicia’s own skincare experiences and desire for truly efficacious formulas and soul-nourishing rituals,” in partnership with Austin, Texas-based, Board Certified Dermatologist Dr. Renée Snyder, who also co-founded e.l.f. Beauty’s W3LL PEOPLE brand. Ranging in price from $25- $38, the first three-piece ritual is the precursor to a full collection launch which will include skincare, body care, haircare and more when it launches in early 2021.


theroot--2020-12-03--We Can't Twerk It Out: Anti-Twerking Restaurant Owner Parts Ways With Houston-Based Restaurant

You may not know Kevin Kelley by name , but you definitely know him by his short-sleeve turtleneck ( or gaiter—debate and controversy follow this man around , apparently ! )
.
The man who became notorious across the internet for his staunch anti-twerking stance and not-so-latent misogynoir , Kevin Kelley is no longer affiliated with one of his restaurants , Taste Bar and Kitchen in Houston .
Now , it may be tempting to file this under “ life comes at you fast , ” but apparently Kelley and Taste chef and owner Don Bowie have been on the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you want to get an indication of just how messy all this is—yes , lawyers are involved .
According to Eater , Bowie and Kelley parted ways at some point this fall , and each party is currently suing the other in “ a pair of highly dramatic lawsuits ” in Harris County .
Bowie also claims that Kelley cut him out of a deal at True Kitchen and Kocktails in Dallas , where Kelley ’ s viral rant was filmed .
Bowie alleges that Kelley stole a number of recipes being used @ @ @ @ @ @ @ popular chicken and waffles dish .
Kelley caused a stir this week after a video of him berating Black female customers at True Kitchen went viral on social media this week .
Incensed that people were dancing on the furniture , Kelley told his patrons , “ all this twerking shit , don ’ t bring it here because we ’ re a restaurant.
” “ If you wan na do it , get the fuck out my restaurant , ” Kelley continued .
While acknowledging that his client base was “ 75 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he couldn ’ t expect men to “ respect ” the women at his establishment if they were twerking .
Meanwhile , people at the restaurant took to social media with additional context about the incident , saying that they had been waiting “ hours ” for food orders , while alcohol-heavy drinks were being served up left and right ( I mean , no matter how much booze was involved , there ’ s still a pandemic outside , which is the fact I can ’ t get past ) .
In @ @ @ @ @ @ @ didn ’ t need his patrons ’ money .
Between his estranged business partner and disrespected customers , we may soon find out how true that statement is .

You may not know Kevin Kelley by name, but you definitely know him by his short-sleeve turtleneck (or gaiter—debate and controversy follow this man around, apparently!). The man who became notorious across the internet for his staunch anti-twerking stance and not-so-latent misogynoir, Kevin Kelley is no longer affiliated with one of his restaurants, Taste Bar and Kitchen in Houston.
Now, it may be tempting to file this under “life comes at you fast,” but apparently Kelley and Taste chef and owner Don Bowie have been on the outs for some time. And if you want to get an indication of just how messy all this is—yes, lawyers are involved.
Advertisement
According to Eater, Bowie and Kelley parted ways at some point this fall, and each party is currently suing the other in “a pair of highly dramatic lawsuits” in Harris County.
From Eater:
In his lawsuit, Kelley claims that Bowie was responsible for inappropriately taking out Payroll Protection Program loans in the restaurant’s name without Kelley’s permission, along with a host of other alleged financial misdeeds. Meanwhile, Bowie alleges that Kelley tanked a deal Bowie had with an investor by saying that the chef “wouldn’t stop stealing.”
Advertisement Advertisement
Bowie also claims that Kelley cut him out of a deal at True Kitchen and Kocktails in Dallas, where Kelley’s viral rant was filmed. Bowie alleges that Kelley stole a number of recipes being used at the Dallas restaurant, including his popular chicken and waffles dish.
Kelley caused a stir this week after a video of him berating Black female customers at True Kitchen went viral on social media this week. Incensed that people were dancing on the furniture, Kelley told his patrons, “all this twerking shit, don’t bring it here because we’re a restaurant.”
Advertisement
“If you wanna do it, get the fuck out my restaurant,” Kelley continued. While acknowledging that his client base was “75 percent ladies,” Kelley suggested that he couldn’t expect men to “respect” the women at his establishment if they were twerking.
Meanwhile, people at the restaurant took to social media with additional context about the incident, saying that they had been waiting “hours” for food orders, while alcohol-heavy drinks were being served up left and right (I mean, no matter how much booze was involved, there’s still a pandemic outside, which is the fact I can’t get past).
Advertisement
In his rant, Kelley insisted that he didn’t need his patrons’ money. Between his estranged business partner and disrespected customers, we may soon find out how true that statement is.


theroot--2020-12-03--Sprint Over to Amazon for $20 off the Fitbit Versa 3

Whether you use them for notification triage or keeping track of your daily runs , there ’ s no shortage @ @ @ @ @ grab to get the job done .
If you need one that ’ ll make @ @ @ @ @ the new Fitbit Versa 3 will feel right at home on your wrist .
It @ @ @ @ @ 210 on Amazon right now , and for your money you ’ ll get GPS @ @ @ @ @ Google Assistant , and good battery life to keep you going all day .

Jordan McMahon on Kinja Deals, shared by Gabe Carey to The Root

Fitbit Versa 3 | $210 | Amazon
Whether you use them for notification triage or keeping track of your daily runs, there’s no shortage of smart watches you can grab to get the job done. If you need one that’ll make a good running companion, the new Fitbit Versa 3 will feel right at home on your wrist. It’s down to $210 on Amazon right now, and for your money you’ll get GPS tracking, NFC payments, Google Assistant, and good battery life to keep you going all day.