theroot--2020-11-16--The 10 Best Deals of November 16, 2020

The 10 Best Deals of November 16, 2020

It ’ s November 16 , and we at Kinja Deals are here to bring you the top 10 deals of the day .
Perfect your skin with the Glow Recipe Glow Together Set .
Prep for the Thanksgiving holiday with up to 40 % off turkey decor at Wayfair .
Maybe even snag yourself a new Apple Watch SE .
And if you ’ re still craving more deals , take a peek at Monday ’ s best deals overall .
Are you a My Best Buy member ?
If you have an account on BestBuy.com , the answer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this morning , I didn ’ t realize I was a My Best Buy member , and now that I know the truth , it ’ s time to buy some video games at steep discounts .
Best Buy is running early Black Friday deals exclusive to anyone enrolled in the program , including the recently released Watch Dogs : Legion on PS4 and Xbox , complete with next-gen upgrades for anyone lucky enough to score a PS5 or Xbox Series X .
( If anyone has any leads on availability or wants @ @ @ @ @ @ @ DM me . )
Whether you ’ ve slept on the title or simply want to play a version that might perform better than the poorly optimized PC version , now ’ s your chance to save 50 % .
While Watch Dogs : Legion is arguably the most compelling offer in this sale given its newness , Just Dance ( XB1 , PS4 , Switch ) Destroy All Humans ( XB1 , PS4 ) , Saints Row : The Third Remastered ( XB1 , PS4 ) , Saints Row IV ( Switch @ @ @ @ @ @ @ XB1 ) , Assassin ’ s Creed : The Rebel Collection ( Switch ) , Blair Witch ( XB1 , PS4 ) , The Wonderful 101 ( PS4 , Switch ) , Blair Witch ( XB1 , PS4 ) , and a fuckton of amiibo are on sale , as well as plenty more games at various prices , all of which are under $ 30 .
Check some things off your holiday shopping list ahead of time this year—with shipping delays abound due to COVID-related fulfillment constraints , putting in your video @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Big Adult John ) now is the best way to ensure it arrives on cue .
This deal was originally published by Gabe Carey .
Amazon is running a buy two , get one free sale on games that ’ s perfect for anyone looking to immediately build their next-generation console collection .
The sale includes brand new games like Assassin ’ s Creed : Valhalla and Call of Duty : Black Ops Cold War .
Players can grab the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X versions of those games , as well @ @ @ @ @ @ @ features recent 2020 releases like Crash Bandicoot 4 : It ’ s About Time and Marvel ’ s Avengers .
This deal was originally published by Giovanni Colantonio .
Foolishly , I bought the 44mm Apple Watch Series 6 at full price— $ 429 for the GPS/non-LTE version—back in September .
For a limited time , you can snatch one up yourself for $ 379 over at Amazon in Space Gray , or cop the smaller 40mm Series 6 in ( PRODUCT ) RED , Gold w/ Pink Sand Sport band , or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 349 .
( The only catch is the Space Gray model doesn ’ t ship until November 30 . )
So far , the Series 6 has been kind to me , what with its faster S6 dual-core processor , advanced fitness tracking capabilities , and most importantly to me , the ability to stream music without my phone in reach .
That said , I almost regret buying the Series 6 knowing what I know now about the SE .
The exclusive features aren ’ t for everyone , including myself .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ ECG sensor or blood oxygen monitoring , the more affordable Apple Watch SE is the Apple Watch to buy this year .
Though it does use the 1-year-older Series 5 chip , it ’ s still twice as fast as a Series 3 and honestly doesn ’ t cost much more at the current $ 230 sale price .
Regardless of which color you go with , the 40mm Apple Watch SE is $ 49 off .
Only in Silver ( again , with the White Sport band ) , the larger 44mm @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the checkout totals for both down to $ 230 and $ 260 , respectively .
The 44mm is also available in Space Gray for a less substantial $ 20 off—or $ 289 .
The SE packs all the most commonly used features of the Series 6 , without the hefty price tag .
Get it if you don ’ t need the in-depth health stuff .
This deal was originally published by Gabe Carey .
I don ’ t know about you , but for ME , the best thing about the holidays @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ re in need of some new cookware to make that ham , turkey , and stuffing , check out a Tools of the Trade Stainless Steel Cookware Set for a low , low $ 30 .
It comes with three pots , a sauté pan , and a frying pan , as well as a flower steamer , pasta spoon , spatula , and a large spoon , all for 75 % off the original list price of $ 120 .
This shouldn ’ t need to be said , but please @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ms. ‘ Rona is still lurking in these streets , so however you celebrate , do it with your third eye open and your masks nearby .
This deal was originally published by Ignacia Fulcher .
Starting today save 69 % on this 18 '' LED ring kit .
We are probably headed for another quarantine so if you didn ’ t grab one of these to improve your selfies , upgrade your TikToks , or even just to help with better lighting for makeup now is the time .
This deal will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ code 69DO1N37 at checkout .
In this kit , you get the 18 '' LED ring light , a 61 '' light stand , a soft tube , a white and orange color filter , a ball head hot shoe adapter , a universal power adapter , a smartphone holder , and a carrying bag .
The stand is made from aluminum alloy , easy to position , and assemble .
The white and orange color filters will help you discover which hue and color temperatures work best .
The hot shoe adapter @ @ @ @ @ @ @ smartphone holder is compatible with most phones as well .
This is a really nice deal and a great starter set for anyone wanting to give their creative endeavors a boost .
Remember the # 1 TikTok tip is well-lit videos do better all around .
This will ship for free if you are a Prime member .
This deal was originally posted by Sheilah Villari .
Check the gift for your skincare-obsessed friend off your list with a Glow Recipe Glow Together Set for a decent $ 34 .
It includes their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Watermelon Glow Ultra Fine Mist .
The sleeping mask is made with watermelon extract and hyaluronic acid to moisturize your face overnight for a dewy glow the next morning .
The Ultra Fine Mist does great as a midday toner , to refresh your face throughout the day and cut a bit of oil , keeping your face cool , calm , and collected .
Plus , it smells like Jolly Ranchers .
What are you waiting for ?
This deal was originally published by Ignacia Fulcher .
The recommendations are all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for Thanksgiving .
I won ’ t be traveling to see my family which is a bummer because this is one of my favorites days .
Wayfair has a ton of decorations and figures to bring a little of this holiday into your home and make it feel a little more festive .
This feels like a real mom selection for decorating with traditional turkeys .
The handmade palm turkey figurine is 25 % off .
He ’ s made of 100 % Bankuan and would look fetching as a centerpiece for your @ @ @ @ @ @ @ know why but this guy is really speaking to me .
Made from recycled wood this country cousin of Tom Turkey is only slightly unsettling but still kind of charming even with his dead-eyed stare .
I ’ d be proud to sit him on my shelf and would probably let him ride all year .
A little cottage vibe for the season or all seasons .
For the classy household may I present this glass turkey with long elegant legs , it ’ s also 40 % off .
You could position @ @ @ @ @ @ @ table as if it ’ s overseeing all the fixins .
Perch it near a bottle of champagne for ultimate fanciness .
This deal was originally published by Sheilah Villari .
Why wait for Black Friday to treat yourself to some fun goodies ?
Bellesa felt the same way and has activated its sitewide deal now .
Take up to 25 % off your order , but the savings here are tiered .
20 % off when you spend $ 79 or 25 % off when you spend $ 149 .
You will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to that first tier .
Just use the code EARLYBF .
Bellesa ’ s own line has produced some amazing toys .
( Yes , I cherish my Nirvana ! )
They ’ ve got some new toys and they are so adorable I ’ m already in love .
Both of these are under the Diskreet moniker and are made for a life on the go .
They are also just $ 49 .
And they look like perfect adult Polly Pockets from the outside , hence the discretion .
First is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s best selling Air .
The Diskreet Air uses the same cinetic suction tech as the original and this is the smallest , quietest , and most sneaky form this toy has ever been .
There is a lot of power in such a small vibe .
Plus it ’ s pretty , just so pretty .
The Diskreet Vibe is the companion piece to the Diskreet Air .
This vibe sizes down the tech of the Aurora and Dea but not the potency .
They somehow managed to get all that in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Choose how you want to groove with the multiple sides , there are options .
This clitoral vibrator is just as cute as the above Air in its baby blue clamshell case .
Both of these cases look like mirrors or compacts and fit snuggling in your purse .
They ’ re USB charged and waterproof too .
This deal was originally published by Sheilah Villari .
Do you have a bunch of shit you need to plug into your computer ?
Like , everything is ridiculously important and simply can not wait @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Aukey apparently shares your philosophy on computer usage .
For a decent $ 56 with the promo code BD6ID62O , you can get an Aukey 12-in-1 USB-C Hub .
You can plug in ethernet cords , multiple USBs , as well as microSD cards that can transfer data at 5 gigabytes per second .
Listen , I ’ m not a tech person , but all of this sounds pretty good , and with $ 15 off the list price , it ’ s a decent deal .
This deal was originally published @ @ @ @ @ @ @ t speak for anyone else ’ s experience , but trying to figure out your lineage in a black family can be quite the task .
We ’ re cut from all different stocks of humanity , and many of us don ’ t have recorded family history to preserve legacies .
But with options like this comprehensive 23andMe DNA test kit , you can start to peel back layers you never thought possible .
It ’ s now $ 89 at Amazon .
And it ’ s not just about uncovering your @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by Quentyn Kennemer .

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

Monday’s Best Deals | Kinja Deals
It’s November 16, and we at Kinja Deals are here to bring you the top 10 deals of the day. Perfect your skin with the Glow Recipe Glow Together Set. Prep for the Thanksgiving holiday with up to 40% off turkey decor at Wayfair. Maybe even snag yourself a new Apple Watch SE.
And if you’re still craving more deals, take a peek at Monday’s best deals overall.
#1: Best buy gaming under $30
Are you a My Best Buy member? If you have an account on BestBuy.com, the answer is probably yes. Until logging in this morning, I didn’t realize I was a My Best Buy member, and now that I know the truth, it’s time to buy some video games at steep discounts. Best Buy is running early Black Friday deals exclusive to anyone enrolled in the program, including the recently released Watch Dogs: Legion on PS4 and Xbox, complete with next-gen upgrades for anyone lucky enough to score a PS5 or Xbox Series X. (If anyone has any leads on availability or wants to donate their PS5 order, please DM me.) Whether you’ve slept on the title or simply want to play a version that might perform better than the poorly optimized PC version, now’s your chance to save 50%.
While Watch Dogs: Legion is arguably the most compelling offer in this sale given its newness, Just Dance (XB1, PS4, Switch) Destroy All Humans (XB1, PS4), Saints Row: The Third Remastered (XB1, PS4), Saints Row IV (Switch), Jump Force (PS4, XB1), Assassin’s Creed: The Rebel Collection (Switch), Blair Witch (XB1, PS4), The Wonderful 101 (PS4, Switch), Blair Witch (XB1, PS4), and a fuckton of amiibo are on sale, as well as plenty more games at various prices, all of which are under $30. Check some things off your holiday shopping list ahead of time this year—with shipping delays abound due to COVID-related fulfillment constraints, putting in your video game orders for little Johnny (or Big Adult John) now is the best way to ensure it arrives on cue.
This deal was originally published by Gabe Carey.
#2: Amazon b2g1 gaming sale
Amazon is running a buy two, get one free sale on games that’s perfect for anyone looking to immediately build their next-generation console collection. The sale includes brand new games like Assassin’s Creed: Valhalla and Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War. Players can grab the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X versions of those games, as well as current-generation versions. The sale also features recent 2020 releases like Crash Bandicoot 4: It’s About Time and Marvel’s Avengers.
This deal was originally published by Giovanni Colantonio.
#3: apple watches
Foolishly, I bought the 44mm Apple Watch Series 6 at full price—$429 for the GPS/non-LTE version—back in September. For a limited time, you can snatch one up yourself for $379 over at Amazon in Space Gray, or cop the smaller 40mm Series 6 in (PRODUCT)RED, Gold w/ Pink Sand Sport band, or Silver w/ White Sport band for $349. (The only catch is the Space Gray model doesn’t ship until November 30.) So far, the Series 6 has been kind to me, what with its faster S6 dual-core processor, advanced fitness tracking capabilities, and most importantly to me, the ability to stream music without my phone in reach. That said, I almost regret buying the Series 6 knowing what I know now about the SE. The exclusive features aren’t for everyone, including myself.
If you don’t need an ECG sensor or blood oxygen monitoring, the more affordable Apple Watch SE is the Apple Watch to buy this year. Though it does use the 1-year-older Series 5 chip, it’s still twice as fast as a Series 3 and honestly doesn’t cost much more at the current $230 sale price. Regardless of which color you go with, the 40mm Apple Watch SE is $49 off. Only in Silver (again, with the White Sport band), the larger 44mm size has the same discount, bringing the checkout totals for both down to $230 and $260, respectively. The 44mm is also available in Space Gray for a less substantial $20 off—or $289. The SE packs all the most commonly used features of the Series 6, without the hefty price tag. Get it if you don’t need the in-depth health stuff.
This deal was originally published by Gabe Carey.
#4: steel cookware set
I don’t know about you, but for ME, the best thing about the holidays is the delicious food. If you’re in need of some new cookware to make that ham, turkey, and stuffing, check out a Tools of the Trade Stainless Steel Cookware Set for a low, low $30. It comes with three pots, a sauté pan, and a frying pan, as well as a flower steamer, pasta spoon, spatula, and a large spoon, all for 75% off the original list price of $120.
This shouldn’t need to be said, but please please be safe during the holidays. Ms. ‘Rona is still lurking in these streets, so however you celebrate, do it with your third eye open and your masks nearby.
This deal was originally published by Ignacia Fulcher.
#5: ring light
Starting today save 69% on this 18" LED ring kit. We are probably headed for another quarantine so if you didn’t grab one of these to improve your selfies, upgrade your TikToks, or even just to help with better lighting for makeup now is the time. This deal will run until December 15 just use the code 69DO1N37 at checkout.
In this kit, you get the 18" LED ring light, a 61" light stand, a soft tube, a white and orange color filter, a ball head hot shoe adapter, a universal power adapter, a smartphone holder, and a carrying bag. The stand is made from aluminum alloy, easy to position, and assemble. The white and orange color filters will help you discover which hue and color temperatures work best. The hot shoe adapter works with most DSLR cameras. The smartphone holder is compatible with most phones as well. This is a really nice deal and a great starter set for anyone wanting to give their creative endeavors a boost. Remember the #1 TikTok tip is well-lit videos do better all around.
This will ship for free if you are a Prime member.
This deal was originally posted by Sheilah Villari.
#6: Glow recipe glow together set
Check the gift for your skincare-obsessed friend off your list with a Glow Recipe Glow Together Set for a decent $34. It includes their famous Watermelon Sleeping Mask as well as the Watermelon Glow Ultra Fine Mist. The sleeping mask is made with watermelon extract and hyaluronic acid to moisturize your face overnight for a dewy glow the next morning. The Ultra Fine Mist does great as a midday toner, to refresh your face throughout the day and cut a bit of oil, keeping your face cool, calm, and collected. Plus, it smells like Jolly Ranchers. What are you waiting for?
This deal was originally published by Ignacia Fulcher.
#7: Thanksgiving turkey decor
The recommendations are all over to stay home and not travel for Thanksgiving. I won’t be traveling to see my family which is a bummer because this is one of my favorites days. Wayfair has a ton of decorations and figures to bring a little of this holiday into your home and make it feel a little more festive.
This feels like a real mom selection for decorating with traditional turkeys. The handmade palm turkey figurine is 25% off. He’s made of 100% Bankuan and would look fetching as a centerpiece for your solo feast.
I don’t know why but this guy is really speaking to me. Made from recycled wood this country cousin of Tom Turkey is only slightly unsettling but still kind of charming even with his dead-eyed stare. I’d be proud to sit him on my shelf and would probably let him ride all year. A little cottage vibe for the season or all seasons.
For the classy household may I present this glass turkey with long elegant legs, it’s also 40% off. You could position this one in the center of the table as if it’s overseeing all the fixins. Perch it near a bottle of champagne for ultimate fanciness.
Free two-day shipping on orders over $35.
This deal was originally published by Sheilah Villari.
#8: Bellesa black friday sale
Why wait for Black Friday to treat yourself to some fun goodies? Bellesa felt the same way and has activated its sitewide deal now. Take up to 25% off your order, but the savings here are tiered. 20% off when you spend $79 or 25% off when you spend $149. You will get 15% off any order up to that first tier. Just use the code EARLYBF.
Bellesa’s own line has produced some amazing toys. (Yes, I cherish my Nirvana!) They’ve got some new toys and they are so adorable I’m already in love. Both of these are under the Diskreet moniker and are made for a life on the go. They are also just $49. And they look like perfect adult Polly Pockets from the outside, hence the discretion.
First is the sneaky version of the company’s best selling Air. The Diskreet Air uses the same cinetic suction tech as the original and this is the smallest, quietest, and most sneaky form this toy has ever been. There is a lot of power in such a small vibe. Plus it’s pretty, just so pretty.
The Diskreet Vibe is the companion piece to the Diskreet Air. This vibe sizes down the tech of the Aurora and Dea but not the potency. They somehow managed to get all that in just a 3.5” diameter toy. Choose how you want to groove with the multiple sides, there are options. This clitoral vibrator is just as cute as the above Air in its baby blue clamshell case. Both of these cases look like mirrors or compacts and fit snuggling in your purse. They’re USB charged and waterproof too.
20% off Diskreet Vibe he Diskreet Vibe comes in a discreet (but cute as heck).
The Diskreet Vibe is Bellesa’s strongest clit vibrator, but also its most discreet. Buy for $43 Bellesa Boutique Use the promo code MM30
Free shipping on orders over $29.
This deal was originally published by Sheilah Villari.
#9: aukey 12-in-1 usb-c hub
Do you have a bunch of shit you need to plug into your computer? Like, everything is ridiculously important and simply cannot wait? Well, luckily for you, Aukey apparently shares your philosophy on computer usage. For a decent $56 with the promo code BD6ID62O, you can get an Aukey 12-in-1 USB-C Hub. You can plug in ethernet cords, multiple USBs, as well as microSD cards that can transfer data at 5 gigabytes per second. Listen, I’m not a tech person, but all of this sounds pretty good, and with $15 off the list price, it’s a decent deal.
This deal was originally published by Ignacia Fulcher.
#10: 23andme dna test kit
I can’t speak for anyone else’s experience, but trying to figure out your lineage in a black family can be quite the task. We’re cut from all different stocks of humanity, and many of us don’t have recorded family history to preserve legacies. But with options like this comprehensive 23andMe DNA test kit, you can start to peel back layers you never thought possible. It’s now $89 at Amazon.
And it’s not just about uncovering your heritage:
HEALTH FEATURES: Know your genes. Own your health. Learn how genetics can influence your chances of developing certain health conditions. Find out if you’re a carrier for certain inherited conditions. Discover what your DNA has to say about your well-being and how it can influence certain lifestyle choices.*
ANCESTRY AND TRAITS FEATURES: Know your personal story in a whole new way. Discover your ancestry composition and where in the world your DNA is from across 2000+ regions. Automatically start your Family Tree using your DNA. See what your DNA might have to say about your taste and smell preferences. Discover how DNA can affect your ability to match a musical pitch or whether you hate the sound of chewing.
PRIVATE AND PROTECTED: Everyone deserves a secure, private place to explore and understand their genetics. Your data is encrypted, protected, and under your control. You decide what you want to learn and what you want to share
This deal was originally published by Quentyn Kennemer.


theroot--2020-11-16--She's a Boss: Harper's Bazaar Names Nikki Ogunnaike Its New Digital Director

If the name of our vertical hadn ’ t already tipped you off , we love a glow up—and loved the glow up of legacy fashion magazine Harper ’ s Bazaar earlier this year when former Vanity Fair fashion editor ( and Tracee Ellis Ross bestie ) Samira Nasr was named its new editor-in-chief .
In fact , Nasr ’ s first issue as editor-in-chief hit stands in November , bringing Black beauty back to its cover via supermodel , entrepreneur and advocate Liya Kebede .
But it ’ s Nasr ’ s newest appointment that has us even more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s Bazaar .
O n Monday , Women ’ s Wear Daily ( WWD ) broke the news that GQ Deputy Fashion Director and 2020 honoree of The Glow Up 50 Nikki Ogunnaike will be taking the helm of Bazaar ’ s digital and social platforms , as its newest digital director .
Ogunnaike joins from Condé Nast-owned GQ , where she was deputy fashion director for the past year , but she knows Hearst Tower well .
Prior to GQ , she worked at Hearst ’ s Elle.com between 2015 and 2019 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ later as style director .
She has also held editorial roles at Glamour , InStyle and Vanity Fair .
WWD further reported that Ogunnaike plans “ to lean into the culture of fashion and style ” in her new position—one in which she intends to continue using fashion to tell stories .
On Instagram , she was more candid about her latest career achievement , posting : because 2020 needed ONE MORE PLOT TWIST 🥳😌🥰 !
!
so excited to join @ samiranasr @ leahchernikoff and all the incredibly smart , ambitious , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ !
!
!
!
!
Leaving my @ gq family is bittersweet ... but eager to start this new adventure and can ’ t wait for you all to come along for the ride !
!
!
# buckleup # letsgo # sobazaar

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

If the name of our vertical hadn’t already tipped you off, we love a glow up—and loved the glow up of legacy fashion magazine Harper’s Bazaar earlier this year when former Vanity Fair fashion editor (and Tracee Ellis Ross bestie) Samira Nasr was named its new editor-in-chief. In fact, Nasr’s first issue as editor-in-chief hit stands in November, bringing Black beauty back to its cover via supermodel, entrepreneur and advocate Liya Kebede.
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But it’s Nasr’s newest appointment that has us even more excited for the future of Harper’s Bazaar. O n Monday, Women’s Wear Daily (WWD) broke the news that GQ Deputy Fashion Director and 2020 honoree of The Glow Up 50 Nikki Ogunnaike will be taking the helm of Bazaar’s digital and social platforms, as its newest digital director.
From WWD:
Ogunnaike joins from Condé Nast-owned GQ, where she was deputy fashion director for the past year, but she knows Hearst Tower well. Prior to GQ, she worked at Hearst’s Elle.com between 2015 and 2019, first as senior fashion editor and later as style director. She has also held editorial roles at Glamour, InStyle and Vanity Fair.
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WWD further reported that Ogunnaike plans “to lean into the culture of fashion and style” in her new position—one in which she intends to continue using fashion to tell stories. On Instagram, she was more candid about her latest career achievement, posting:


theroot--2020-11-16--Charges Dropped Against Ex-Giants Cornerback DeAndre Baker

Whew , chile , Florida will never fail to Florida .
Former New York Giants cornerback DeAndre Baker has had all charges against him dropped by officials in Florida ’ s Broward County .
Why you ask ?
Well , the attorney representing the victims allegedly tried to extort him .
Now if that ain ’ t some straight Florida shit , I simply don ’ t know what is , reader .
According to ESPN , Baker , 23 , was facing four counts of armed robbery , as well as four counts of aggravated assault .
According to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Seattle Seahawks cornerback Quinton Dunbar were accused of pulling up to a dice game in Miramar , Fla. , with semiautomatic weapons and going full-Deebo , snatching everyone ’ s chains and money .
Prosecutors declined to press charges against Dunbar due to insufficient evidence but continued with the charges against Baker .
The case was already on shaky ground , with the victims recanting their sworn statements last month .
What pushed it over the edge was William Dean , an attorney in South Florida representing the victims , was arrested Monday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ asking Baker to pay over $ 266,000 to each of his clients .
He reportedly told Baker his clients would do “ anything you want , so long as the money is right.
” So first of all , I think the most important question we should be asking here is “ Whose mans is this ?
” Followed closely by “ My nigga , for real , tho ?
” I ’ m just saying , if he didn ’ t think he had a strong case , he could ’ ve @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this is Florida , so maybe extorting defendants is just considered par for the course with attorneys .
I doubt it , though .
Now ol ’ boy has caught a case and is quite likely to be disbarred .
Y ’ all already know what I got ta say : You hate to see it .
The Broward State Attorney ’ s Office dropped the charges against Baker , with assistant state attorney Paul R. Valcore releasing a statement saying “ the alleged victims and the known witnesses have become uncooperative and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Baker have been convicted , he would ’ ve faced a mandatory minimum of 10 years to life in prison .
Baker was initially told to steer clear of the Giants at the start of the case , with the team eventually dropping him over the summer .
He is currently a free agent and , with the charges behind him now , hopes to return to the NFL .
Sources close to Baker told ESPN that he has been working out in South Florida .
Hopefully , this setback doesn ’ t @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Brown ’ s messy ass got another shot , a dude who was the victim of an extortion racket certainly should .
Now if you ’ ll excuse me , I ’ m going to sit back and wait for the inevitable 30 for 30 or Netflix documentary this wild-ass case is going to receive .

Whew, chile, Florida will never fail to Florida. Former New York Giants cornerback DeAndre Baker has had all charges against him dropped by officials in Florida’s Broward County. Why you ask? Well, the attorney representing the victims allegedly tried to extort him.
Now if that ain’t some straight Florida shit, I simply don’t know what is, reader.
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According to ESPN, Baker, 23, was facing four counts of armed robbery, as well as four counts of aggravated assault. According to the original arrest warrant, Baker and Seattle Seahawks cornerback Quinton Dunbar were accused of pulling up to a dice game in Miramar, Fla., with semiautomatic weapons and going full-Deebo, snatching everyone’s chains and money. Prosecutors declined to press charges against Dunbar due to insufficient evidence but continued with the charges against Baker.
The case was already on shaky ground, with the victims recanting their sworn statements last month. What pushed it over the edge was William Dean, an attorney in South Florida representing the victims, was arrested Monday morning and charged with extortion after allegedly asking Baker to pay over $266,000 to each of his clients. He reportedly told Baker his clients would do “anything you want, so long as the money is right.”
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So first of all, I think the most important question we should be asking here is “Whose mans is this?” Followed closely by “My nigga, for real, tho?”
I’m just saying, if he didn’t think he had a strong case, he could’ve just dropped it. Now granted, this is Florida, so maybe extorting defendants is just considered par for the course with attorneys. I doubt it, though. Now ol’ boy has caught a case and is quite likely to be disbarred.
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Y’all already know what I gotta say: You hate to see it.
The Broward State Attorney’s Office dropped the charges against Baker, with assistant state attorney Paul R. Valcore releasing a statement saying “the alleged victims and the known witnesses have become uncooperative and their credibility is inalterably tarnished.” Should Baker have been convicted, he would’ve faced a mandatory minimum of 10 years to life in prison.
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Baker was initially told to steer clear of the Giants at the start of the case, with the team eventually dropping him over the summer. He is currently a free agent and, with the charges behind him now, hopes to return to the NFL. Sources close to Baker told ESPN that he has been working out in South Florida.
Hopefully, this setback doesn’t permanently derail his career. If Antonio Brown’s messy ass got another shot, a dude who was the victim of an extortion racket certainly should.
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Now if you’ll excuse me, I’m going to sit back and wait for the inevitable 30 for 30 or Netflix documentary this wild-ass case is going to receive.


theroot--2020-11-16--Glow Recipe's Glow Together Gift Set Is Perfect For Your Skin-Obsessed Friend and Your Pockets

Check the gift for your skincare-obsessed friend off your list with a Glow Recipe Glow Together Set for a decent @ @ @ @ @ their famous Watermelon Sleeping Mask as well as the Watermelon G low Ultra Fine Mist @ @ @ @ @ made with watermelon extract and hyaluronic acid to moisturize your face overnight for a dewy @ @ @ @ @ The Ultra Fine Mist does great as a midday toner , to refresh your face @ @ @ @ @ a bit of oil , keeping your face cool , calm , and collected .
@ @ @ @ @ Jolly Ranchers .
What are you waiting for ?

Ignacia on Kinja Deals, shared by Ignacia to The Root

Glow Recipe Glow Together Set | $34 | Glow Recipe
Check the gift for your skincare-obsessed friend off your list with a Glow Recipe Glow Together Set for a decent $34. It includes their famous Watermelon Sleeping Mask as well as the Watermelon Glow Ultra Fine Mist. The sleeping mask is made with watermelon extract and hyaluronic acid to moisturize your face overnight for a dewy glow the next morning. The Ultra Fine Mist does great as a midday toner, to refresh your face throughout the day and cut a bit of oil, keeping your face cool, calm, and collected. Plus, it smells like Jolly Ranchers. What are you waiting for?


theroot--2020-11-16--Sure, a Cover of 'Put Your Records On' Charted, But Let the Record Show...the Song Is Corinne Bailey

Sure, a Cover of 'Put Your Records On' Charted, But Let the Record Show...the Song Is Corinne Bailey Rae's

A couple of days ago , I decided to mellow out during my shower to the sounds of Corinne Bailey Rae ( shout-out to Bluetooth speakers ! )
.
I chose the acoustic version of her hit single , “ Put Your Records On ” ( which I prefer to the studio version ) , and I couldn ’ t stop smiling .
Rae and her soothing voice always have that effect .
I couldn ’ t have predicted that days later , I ’ d see her name trending .
I went from fleeting panic ( shout-out to Twitter @ @ @ @ @ @ @ what ’ s actually happening regarding the trending topic under the actual bolded topic name ) to curiosity ( did she announce a new project ? )
and clicked on her name .
What I found was a mixture of annoyance and eventual pride at Twitter ’ s response to the annoyance of the day .
So , there ’ s this artist named Ritt Momney ( born Jack Rutter ) who recently hit the Hot 100 for his viral cover of “ Put Your Records On ” and ended up getting a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Like pretty much everyone else , I initially saw this dude ’ s name and thought Mitt Romney randomly did a cover of her song on TikTok .
Hey , stranger things have happened in 2020 .
Anyway , though the actual article did note that the song is a cover of Rae ’ s 2006 hit , the headline framing was pretty damn off-putting , “ Ritt Momney Doesn ’ t Care If ‘ Put Your Records On ’ Is His Only Pop Hit.
” Yeah , it ’ s not his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the song , but she wrote it , too ( with John Beck and Steve Chrisanthou ) .
It ’ s hers .
Thankfully , Twitter came through like Voltron to remind everyone that respect should be put on Rae ’ s name , damn it .
To Momney ’ s credit , he also believes Rae should get the primary props here .
“ Songwriting will always be the main driving force behind how much anybody likes a song , ” he told Billboard .
“ I think people give me way @ @ @ @ @ @ @ because it ’ s not the production that gets people dancing to it or makes people really like it .
It ’ s the fact that it ’ s just a really good song.
” Momney also teased that he ’ s hoping to talk to Rae at some point .
“ My manager is talking to Corinne Bailey Rae ’ s manager in some capacity , ” he said .
“ I don ’ t want to get my hopes up too much , but I think that we might do an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be awesome .
”

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

A couple of days ago, I decided to mellow out during my shower to the sounds of Corinne Bailey Rae (shout-out to Bluetooth speakers!). I chose the acoustic version of her hit single, “Put Your Records On” (which I prefer to the studio version), and I couldn’t stop smiling. Rae and her soothing voice always have that effect.
I couldn’t have predicted that days later, I’d see her name trending. I went from fleeting panic (shout-out to Twitter for now adding a quick summary of what’s actually happening regarding the trending topic under the actual bolded topic name) to curiosity (did she announce a new project?) and clicked on her name. What I found was a mixture of annoyance and eventual pride at Twitter’s response to the annoyance of the day.
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So, there’s this artist named Ritt Momney (born Jack Rutter) who recently hit the Hot 100 for his viral cover of “Put Your Records On” and ended up getting a whole-ass Billboard profile because of it. Like pretty much everyone else, I initially saw this dude’s name and thought Mitt Romney randomly did a cover of her song on TikTok. Hey, stranger things have happened in 2020.
Anyway, though the actual article did note that the song is a cover of Rae’s 2006 hit, the headline framing was pretty damn off-putting, “Ritt Momney Doesn’t Care If ‘Put Your Records On’ Is His Only Pop Hit.”
Advertisement Advertisement
Yeah, it’s not his pop hit. Rae not only sung the song, but she wrote it, too (with John Beck and Steve Chrisanthou). It’s hers.
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Thankfully, Twitter came through like Voltron to remind everyone that respect should be put on Rae’s name, damn it.
Advertisement
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To Momney’s credit, he also believes Rae should get the primary props here.
“Songwriting will always be the main driving force behind how much anybody likes a song,” he told Billboard. “I think people give me way too much credit for doing cool production because it’s not the production that gets people dancing to it or makes people really like it. It’s the fact that it’s just a really good song.”
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Momney also teased that he’s hoping to talk to Rae at some point.
“My manager is talking to Corinne Bailey Rae’s manager in some capacity,” he said. “I don’t want to get my hopes up too much, but I think that we might do an interview at some point. That would be awesome.”


theroot--2020-11-16--Why Every Joke, Tweet, and Essay Whining About How 'Cancel Culture Is Very Bad' Is Very Dumb, Explai

Why Every Joke, Tweet, and Essay Whining About How 'Cancel Culture Is Very Bad' Is Very Dumb, Explained

Jackson was walking down the street , headed to The Container Store when he saw his friend Timothee approaching .
He hadn ’ t seen Timothee since two summers ago , when they both were stagehands on Bat Out of Hell : The Musical , so they were happy to see each other .
Timothee also appeared to be eating a taco .
“ What ’ s going on , man ?
” Jackson said as they embraced with a man hug .
“ My man , Jack !
Things are good ?
How about you ?
” Timothee replied @ @ @ @ @ @ @ My bad if I got taco juice on you.
” “ It ’ s cool , ” Jackson said while laughing .
“ And if you ’ re doing as good as that taco looks , you ’ re doing better than me.
” Weirdly , Timothee ’ s mood immediately shifted .
He wasn ’ t angry .
Just seemed pensive .
Rueful , even .
This alarmed Jackson .
“ Wait , you good ?
Did I say something wrong ?
” “ It ’ s nothing you did .
I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ m not allowed to eat tacos anymore.
” Timothee explained .
“ Everyone keeps saying ‘ You can ’ t eat tacos anymore ’ and it really bums me out .
I miss the days we were allowed to , you know , just eat tacos in peace.
” Jackson laughed , as he assumed that Timothee was telling a joke that he just didn ’ t get .
That could be the only rational explanation for Timothee ’ s behavior .
Otherwise , why was this man , who was literally eating @ @ @ @ @ @ @ allowed to eat tacos—between bites of the taco he was currently eating ?
Upon witnessing Jackson ’ s amusement , Timothee ’ s rue shifted to full-blown melancholy .
Jackson was stunned by this .
He ’ d clearly upset his friend but wasn ’ t sure how .
“ I ’ m sorry for laughing , ” Jackson said , attempting to calm Timothee down , “ but I don ’ t get it.
” “ You said that people said you ’ re not allowed to eat tacos anymore .
But @ @ @ @ @ @ @ taco , and no one is stopping you from doing that .
There ’ s no taco task force patrolling the streets .
No taco SWAT .
You can eat all the tacos you want .
And dude , you ’ re literally eating a taco .
In fact , you just took another bite of it .
It looks delicious.
” “ But , ” Timothee replied , “ they said I can ’ t do this anymore , and they ’ re trying to stop me.
” “ Who the fuck @ @ @ @ @ @ @ now incredulous Jackson replied .
“ Who are these mysterious taco guardians ?
” “ Well , ” Timothee explained , “ it started two weeks ago when I robbed this woman who was carrying a bag of tacos .
Everyone was like ‘ Don ’ t do that !
What is wrong with you ?
Don ’ t eat those tacos !
’ And then I got arrested.
” Jackson started to reply to Timothee , perhaps to remind him that his literal taco-eating means no one is stopping him from eating @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ d never noticed how dumb his friend is—but stopped mid-thought , and instead just said , “ Well , it was nice to see you again.
” Timothee nodded his head , reached into his backpack for another taco , unwrapped the foil , and took a prodigious bite of it .

Damon Young on Very Smart Brothas, shared by Damon Young to The Root

Jackson was walking down the street, headed to The Container Store when he saw his friend Timothee approaching. He hadn’t seen Timothee since two summers ago, when they both were stagehands on Bat Out of Hell: The Musical, so they were happy to see each other. Timothee also appeared to be eating a taco.
“What’s going on, man?” Jackson said as they embraced with a man hug.
“My man, Jack! Things are good? How about you?” Timothee replied, before apologizing. “Shit. My bad if I got taco juice on you.”
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“It’s cool,” Jackson said while laughing. “And if you’re doing as good as that taco looks, you’re doing better than me.”
Weirdly, Timothee’s mood immediately shifted. He wasn’t angry. Just seemed pensive. Rueful, even. This alarmed Jackson.
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“Wait, you good? Did I say something wrong?”
Timothee sighed, took a beat, and answered.
“It’s nothing you did. I’m just upset that I’m not allowed to eat tacos anymore.”
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“Huh?” Jackson replied, confused.
Timothee explained. “Everyone keeps saying ‘You can’t eat tacos anymore’ and it really bums me out. I miss the days we were allowed to, you know, just eat tacos in peace.”
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Jackson laughed, as he assumed that Timothee was telling a joke that he just didn’t get. That could be the only rational explanation for Timothee’s behavior. Otherwise, why was this man, who was literally eating a taco, complaining about not being allowed to eat tacos—between bites of the taco he was currently eating?
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Upon witnessing Jackson’s amusement, Timothee’s rue shifted to full-blown melancholy. Jackson was stunned by this. He’d clearly upset his friend but wasn’t sure how.
“I’m sorry for laughing,” Jackson said, attempting to calm Timothee down, “but I don’t get it.”
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“You don’t get what?” Timothee shot back.
“You said that people said you’re not allowed to eat tacos anymore. But you’re here, eating a taco, and no one is stopping you from doing that. There’s no taco task force patrolling the streets. No taco SWAT. You can eat all the tacos you want. And dude, you’re literally eating a taco. In fact, you just took another bite of it. It looks delicious.”
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“But,” Timothee replied, “they said I can’t do this anymore, and they’re trying to stop me.”
“Who the fuck is ‘they’?” a now incredulous Jackson replied. “Who are these mysterious taco guardians?”
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“Well,” Timothee explained, “it started two weeks ago when I robbed this woman who was carrying a bag of tacos. Everyone was like ‘Don’t do that! What is wrong with you? Don’t eat those tacos!’ And then I got arrested.”
Jackson started to reply to Timothee, perhaps to remind him that his literal taco-eating means no one is stopping him from eating tacos—and Jackson also asked himself why he’d never noticed how dumb his friend is—but stopped mid-thought, and instead just said, “Well, it was nice to see you again.”
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Timothee nodded his head, reached into his backpack for another taco, unwrapped the foil, and took a prodigious bite of it.
It was delicious.


theroot--2020-11-16--Hope on the Horizon: An Almost 95 Percent Effective COVID-19 Vaccine Is Coming Soon From Moderna

There is light at the end of the tunnel .
Moderna , a biotechnology firm , says that it has developed a COVID-19 vaccine , which trials show is 94.5 percent effective against the coronavirus–even for people with severe cases .
Moderna announced the news about the promising vaccine on Monday , revealing that its tests on around 30,000 people have garnered hugely successful results .
“ If you look at the data , the numbers speak for themselves , ” said Dr. Anthony Fauci , director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases which partnered with Moderna @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Washington Post .
“ I describe myself as a realist , but I ’ m fundamentally a cautious optimist .
I felt we ’ d likely get something less than this .
… I said certainly a 90-plus-percent effective vaccine is possible , but I wasn ’ t counting on it.
” “ In this pandemic , what has been awful from a public health standpoint , an economic standpoint , is the worry people have to get so sick they have to go to the hospital — so sick they have to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ high risk of dying , ” said Stephane Bancel , Moderna ’ s chief executive .
“ If a [ vaccine ] could prevent 95 percent of people to not get disease , but to not get severe disease , that would be a game-changer : the impact on hospitals , the impact on people ’ s psyche and the impact on deaths.
” Both Moderna and Pfizer , which announced last week that it is also finalizing a vaccine for COVID-19 that is over 90 percent effective , have contracts to sell @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Pfizer ’ s , the Moderna vaccine was developed with the investment of government dollars—to the tune of nearly $ 1 billion—as part of Operation Warp Speed .
And while Pfizer ’ s vaccine requires storage at negative 70 degrees celsius , Moderna says its vaccine can be refrigerated for a month and remain stable .
Moderna says it anticipates wrapping up its vaccine trial by the end of November , which means that after review by the Food and Drug Administration , doses can start being delivered to those at the highest @ @ @ @ @ @ @ then be delivered to the wider population by April of next year , according to the Post .
A spring 2021 vaccine would take us into more than a year of living with this dastardly pandemic , but it offers a hopeful end to the ever-multiplying numbers of Americans sickened and dying from the coronavirus , which should encourage everyone .
Let ’ s try and keep it together with the mask-wearing and social distancing for a few more months .
It also remains to be seen if the troublingly prevalent anti-vax crowd @ @ @ @ @ @ @ distribution of any COVID-19 vaccine .
If we ’ ve seen anything from 2020 , it ’ s that far from every American is willing to carry out personal actions that will benefit the health of the community at large .
But let us hope that common sense and decency will finally , finally prevail .

There is light at the end of the tunnel.
Moderna, a biotechnology firm, says that it has developed a COVID-19 vaccine, which trials show is 94.5 percent effective against the coronavirus–even for people with severe cases.
Moderna announced the news about the promising vaccine on Monday, revealing that its tests on around 30,000 people have garnered hugely successful results.
Advertisement
“If you look at the data, the numbers speak for themselves,” said Dr. Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases which partnered with Moderna to develop the vaccine, reports the Washington Post. “I describe myself as a realist, but I’m fundamentally a cautious optimist. I felt we’d likely get something less than this. … I said certainly a 90-plus-percent effective vaccine is possible, but I wasn’t counting on it.”
“In this pandemic, what has been awful from a public health standpoint, an economic standpoint, is the worry people have to get so sick they have to go to the hospital — so sick they have to get to the ICU and have a high risk of dying,” said Stephane Bancel, Moderna’s chief executive. “If a [vaccine] could prevent 95 percent of people to not get disease, but to not get severe disease, that would be a game-changer: the impact on hospitals, the impact on people’s psyche and the impact on deaths.”
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Both Moderna and Pfizer, which announced last week that it is also finalizing a vaccine for COVID-19 that is over 90 percent effective, have contracts to sell doses to the U.S. government. Unlike Pfizer’s, the Moderna vaccine was developed with the investment of government dollars—to the tune of nearly $1 billion—as part of Operation Warp Speed. And while Pfizer’s vaccine requires storage at negative 70 degrees celsius, Moderna says its vaccine can be refrigerated for a month and remain stable.
Moderna says it anticipates wrapping up its vaccine trial by the end of November, which means that after review by the Food and Drug Administration, doses can start being delivered to those at the highest risk for COVID-19. Vaccine treatment could then be delivered to the wider population by April of next year, according to the Post.
Advertisement
A spring 2021 vaccine would take us into more than a year of living with this dastardly pandemic, but it offers a hopeful end to the ever-multiplying numbers of Americans sickened and dying from the coronavirus, which should encourage everyone. Let’s try and keep it together with the mask-wearing and social distancing for a few more months.
It also remains to be seen if the troublingly prevalent anti-vax crowd will throw a wrench into the effective distribution of any COVID-19 vaccine. If we’ve seen anything from 2020, it’s that far from every American is willing to carry out personal actions that will benefit the health of the community at large. But let us hope that common sense and decency will finally, finally prevail.


theroot--2020-11-16--Gear up for Thanksgiving With a Tools of the Trade 13-Piece Stainless Steel Cookware Set, 75% Off!

Whether you 're celebrating with your loved ones in person or from a distance , The Inventory staff is dedicated to spreading holiday cheer with the top gifts to ring in the season—and maybe a few good deals to snatch up for yourself .
It 's okay , your secret 's safe with us .
I don ’ t know about you , but for ME , the best thing about the holidays is the delicious food .
If you ’ re in need of some new cookware to make that ham , turkey , and stuffing , check out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Cookware Set for a low , low $ 30 .
It comes with three pots , a sauté pan , and a frying pan , as well as a flower steamer , pasta spoon , spatula , and a large spoon , all for 75 % off the original list price of $ 120 .
This shouldn ’ t need to be said , but please please be safe during the holidays .
Ms. ‘ Rona is still lurking in these streets , so however you celebrate , do it with your third @ @ @ @ @ @ @

Ignacia on Kinja Deals, shared by Jordan McMahon to The Root

Tools of the Trade Stainless Steel Cookware Set | $30 | Macy’s
I don’t know about you, but for ME, the best thing about the holidays is the delicious food. If you’re in need of some new cookware to make that ham, turkey, and stuffing, check out a Tools of the Trade Stainless Steel Cookware Set for a low, low $30. It comes with three pots, a sauté pan, and a frying pan, as well as a flower steamer, pasta spoon, spatula, and a large spoon, all for 75% off the original list price of $120.
This shouldn’t need to be said, but please please be safe during the holidays. Ms. ‘Rona is still lurking in these streets, so however you celebrate, do it with your third eye open and your masks nearby.


theroot--2020-11-16--Women and People of Color Make Up a Substantial Portion of Biden Transition Team

One of President-elect Joe Biden ’ s early campaign promises was to build an administration that looks like America , and the incoming administration looks to be setting the tone early as women and people of color make up a large portion of the Biden transition team .
According to CNN , of the 500 people selected for roles on the transition team , people of color make up 46 percent .
Overall , women make up the majority of the team at 52 percent .
The makeup of the team ’ s senior staff members consists of 41 percent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
This commitment to diversity also extends to the transition team ’ s advisory boards .
For example , President-elect Biden ’ s COVID-19 advisory board is made of 13 members ; nine of which are people of color and five being women .
“ For months , the Biden-Harris transition has laid the groundwork for a Biden-Harris administration , and at the core of that work is an unrelenting commitment to diversity , ” Ted Kaufman , co-chair of the Biden-Harris transition , told CNN .
“ As we continue working full-speed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of leaders and staff are reflective of America — upholding President-elect Biden and Vice President-elect Harris ’ belief that through diverse voices we can develop and implement a policy vision to tackle our nation ’ s toughest challenges.
” The numbers are also reflective of the makeup of Biden ’ s campaign team , with people of color representing 46 percent of full-time staff positions , and 40 percent of its senior leadership positions .
Black men and women have significant roles in the transition team as well , leading over a quarter @ @ @ @ @ @ @ News .
The duty of these teams is to review the current operations of federal agencies and provide a roadmap so that the staffers and appointees will be able to continue the work being done with little disruption .
“ The agency review process will help lay the foundation for meeting these challenges on Day One , ” Tony Allen , a transition advisory board member and president of historically Black Delaware State University , told ABC News .
“ We are building a team to reflect America and these Black leaders are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the review team appointees are graduates of historically Black colleges and universities .
They include Charmion Kinder , who will help lead or guide transition efforts at the Commerce Department .
Kinder was a White House press aide to first lady Michelle Obama and served as a public affairs appointee at the departments of Commerce and Housing and Urban Development .
Patrice Simms will lead the transition effort for the Environmental Protection Agency .
He is a prominent environmental attorney and legal scholar who was a deputy assistant attorney general in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ natural resources division .
Civil rights leaders and activists have pledged to push Biden ’ s administration to create more progressive policies on criminal justice , housing , the economy and more .
The teams currently acknowledge that the failure of the Trump administration to formally begin the transition process has impeded their ability to do their job .
Typically , the General Service Administration would begin the process of “ ascertainment , ” which formally recognizes the winner of an election , and provides them with access to the funds and information @ @ @ @ @ @ @ power .
Because this country elected a petulant little bitch four years ago , that has yet to happen .
A spokesperson for the GSA has cited the current legal battles the Trump administration is waging against the outcome of the election in multiple swing states as the reason behind the delay .
Look , when it ’ s been two weeks , and your legal team has managed to rack up a win-loss record comparable to the New York Jets , it might just be time to pack it up and get @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , setbacks notwithstanding , this commitment to diversity early on in the transition stage is promising and it ’ s nice to see that , as of now , it wasn ’ t just all talk .
On the campaign trail , Biden repeatedly promised that his administration and Cabinet members would be diverse , and reflective of America ’ s demographic makeup .
“ My administration ’ s going to look like America , not just my staff , the administration from the vice president straight down through Cabinet members to major @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the court , ” Biden said in June at a town hall regarding the issues facing Asian American and Pacific Islander communities .
“ It ’ s going to be a reflection of who we are as a nation .
”

One of President-elect Joe Biden’s early campaign promises was to build an administration that looks like America, and the incoming administration looks to be setting the tone early as women and people of color make up a large portion of the Biden transition team.
According to CNN, of the 500 people selected for roles on the transition team, people of color make up 46 percent. Overall, women make up the majority of the team at 52 percent. The makeup of the team’s senior staff members consists of 41 percent people of color and 53 percent women. This commitment to diversity also extends to the transition team’s advisory boards.
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For example, President-elect Biden’s COVID-19 advisory board is made of 13 members; nine of which are people of color and five being women. “For months, the Biden-Harris transition has laid the groundwork for a Biden-Harris administration, and at the core of that work is an unrelenting commitment to diversity,” Ted Kaufman, co-chair of the Biden-Harris transition, told CNN.
“As we continue working full-speed ahead to Inauguration, our diverse group of leaders and staff are reflective of America — upholding President-elect Biden and Vice President-elect Harris’ belief that through diverse voices we can develop and implement a policy vision to tackle our nation’s toughest challenges.”
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The numbers are also reflective of the makeup of Biden’s campaign team, with people of color representing 46 percent of full-time staff positions, and 40 percent of its senior leadership positions.
Black men and women have significant roles in the transition team as well, leading over a quarter of the teams, according to ABC News. The duty of these teams is to review the current operations of federal agencies and provide a roadmap so that the staffers and appointees will be able to continue the work being done with little disruption.
Advertisement
“The agency review process will help lay the foundation for meeting these challenges on Day One,” Tony Allen, a transition advisory board member and president of historically Black Delaware State University, told ABC News. “We are building a team to reflect America and these Black leaders are dedicated experts in their fields.”
From ABC News:
Many of the review team appointees are graduates of historically Black colleges and universities. They include Charmion Kinder, who will help lead or guide transition efforts at the Commerce Department. Kinder was a White House press aide to first lady Michelle Obama and served as a public affairs appointee at the departments of Commerce and Housing and Urban Development. Patrice Simms will lead the transition effort for the Environmental Protection Agency. He is a prominent environmental attorney and legal scholar who was a deputy assistant attorney general in the Obama Justice Department’s environment and natural resources division. Civil rights leaders and activists have pledged to push Biden’s administration to create more progressive policies on criminal justice, housing, the economy and more.
Advertisement
The teams currently acknowledge that the failure of the Trump administration to formally begin the transition process has impeded their ability to do their job. Typically, the General Service Administration would begin the process of “ascertainment,” which formally recognizes the winner of an election, and provides them with access to the funds and information necessary to ensure a smooth transition of power.
Because this country elected a petulant little bitch four years ago, that has yet to happen. A spokesperson for the GSA has cited the current legal battles the Trump administration is waging against the outcome of the election in multiple swing states as the reason behind the delay.
Advertisement
Look, when it’s been two weeks, and your legal team has managed to rack up a win-loss record comparable to the New York Jets, it might just be time to pack it up and get this show on the road.
Still, setbacks notwithstanding, this commitment to diversity early on in the transition stage is promising and it’s nice to see that, as of now, it wasn’t just all talk. On the campaign trail, Biden repeatedly promised that his administration and Cabinet members would be diverse, and reflective of America’s demographic makeup.
Advertisement
“My administration’s going to look like America, not just my staff, the administration from the vice president straight down through Cabinet members to major players within the White House, and the court,” Biden said in June at a town hall regarding the issues facing Asian American and Pacific Islander communities.
“It’s going to be a reflection of who we are as a nation.”


theroot--2020-11-16--As More Questions Arise, Police in Louisiana Say They Are Investigating Quawan Charles' Death as a H

As More Questions Arise, Police in Louisiana Say They Are Investigating Quawan Charles' Death as a Homicide

Nearly two weeks after police told the family of 15-year-old Quawan Charles that his body was found in a sugarcane field in Loreauville , La.
, the Iberia Parish Sheriff ’ s Office is now saying that it is investigating the death as a homicide , but The Root has learned that new developments in the case are raising even more question for the teen ’ s grieving family .
Despite the lack of urgency or transparency in the police ’ s investigation , which the family and their lawyers spoke to The Root about in an interview just last @ @ @ @ @ @ @ issued a statement on Saturday saying it has been looking at the case as a homicide from the very beginning .
“ Just as we do in any case involving someone found deceased in this manner , we immediately began treating this as a homicide investigation at the very moment we found Quawan “ Bobby ” Charles , ” the sheriff ’ s office said in a statement Saturday .
The sheriff ’ s office also said that it had not been alerted to Charles ’ disappearance until Nov. 3 , when one @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Charles ’ mother had initially reported him missing to her local police department in the town of Baldwin , and the department then notified the local sheriff ’ s office in St. Mary Parish , the statement said .
It ’ s clear that problematic communication by police , as well as the almost-complete absence of communication with the family of Quawan , is a feature of this tragic and suspicious case .
Though the family reported their son missing on October 30 to their local authorities , this information was not relayed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up finding his body and told the family he appeared to have drowned .
It appears the family may not even have been aware that the case was being investigated as a homicide .
Chase Trichell , an attorney for the family , told NBC News he was heartened to hear the news and that Iberia Parish Sheriff Thomas Romero has told them nothing about their findings in the investigation so far .
“ Any time a 15-year-old minor goes missing and turns up in a sugar cane field 30 miles from where @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have been investigated as a homicide from day one , ” Trichell told The Root on Monday .
“ We are constantly disappointed in the slow reaction from the law enforcement agencies involved in Quawan ’ s disappearance and death.
” Numerous reports indicate that Quawan was last seen with a 17-year-old acquaintance and his mother .
Trichell and attorney Ronald Haley , who are both representing the Charles family , told The Root that the Baldwin Police Department recently turned over video footage that confirms Quawan was with the woman and her @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
According to interviews with the neighbors conducted by private investigators hired by the family ’ s attorneys , along with photographs the family lawyers shared with The Root , the woman and her son were last seen loading their belongings into a U-Haul trailer and leaving Loreauville .
Quawan ’ s family has no idea if the sheriff ’ s office is aware of these developments or if the woman is even a suspect .
On Friday , the family demanded a meeting with the team investigating the teenager ’ s death @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Iberia Parish Sheriff ’ s Office to their request .
“ It ’ s obvious the sheriff is not taking the family ’ s grief seriously , ” Trichell said .
“ They can not get closure if there are no answers.
” In its own statement , the sheriff ’ s office said that it is reviewing toxicology results and that a review of video evidence from an area near where Quawan ’ s body was found showed that no one else was with him before his death , NBC reports @

Nearly two weeks after police told the family of 15-year-old Quawan Charles that his body was found in a sugarcane field in Loreauville, La., the Iberia Parish Sheriff’s Office is now saying that it is investigating the death as a homicide, but The Root has learned that new developments in the case are raising even more question for the teen’s grieving family.
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Despite the lack of urgency or transparency in the police’s investigation, which the family and their lawyers spoke to The Root about in an interview just last week, the sheriff’s office issued a statement on Saturday saying it has been looking at the case as a homicide from the very beginning.
From NBC News:
“Just as we do in any case involving someone found deceased in this manner, we immediately began treating this as a homicide investigation at the very moment we found Quawan “Bobby” Charles,” the sheriff’s office said in a statement Saturday. The sheriff’s office also said that it had not been alerted to Charles’ disappearance until Nov. 3, when one of his parents contacted the office. Charles’ mother had initially reported him missing to her local police department in the town of Baldwin, and the department then notified the local sheriff’s office in St. Mary Parish, the statement said.
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It’s clear that problematic communication by police, as well as the almost-complete absence of communication with the family of Quawan, is a feature of this tragic and suspicious case. Though the family reported their son missing on October 30 to their local authorities, this information was not relayed to investigators until days later—when they ended up finding his body and told the family he appeared to have drowned.
It appears the family may not even have been aware that the case was being investigated as a homicide. Chase Trichell, an attorney for the family, told NBC News he was heartened to hear the news and that Iberia Parish Sheriff Thomas Romero has told them nothing about their findings in the investigation so far.
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“Any time a 15-year-old minor goes missing and turns up in a sugar cane field 30 miles from where he was last seen, it should have been investigated as a homicide from day one,” Trichell told The Root on Monday. “We are constantly disappointed in the slow reaction from the law enforcement agencies involved in Quawan’s disappearance and death.”
Numerous reports indicate that Quawan was last seen with a 17-year-old acquaintance and his mother. Trichell and attorney Ronald Haley, who are both representing the Charles family, told The Root that the Baldwin Police Department recently turned over video footage that confirms Quawan was with the woman and her son on the day of the incident.
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According to interviews with the neighbors conducted by private investigators hired by the family’s attorneys, along with photographs the family lawyers shared with The Root, the woman and her son were last seen loading their belongings into a U-Haul trailer and leaving Loreauville.
Quawan’s family has no idea if the sheriff’s office is aware of these developments or if the woman is even a suspect. On Friday, the family demanded a meeting with the team investigating the teenager’s death but has reportedly received no response from the Iberia Parish Sheriff’s Office to their request.
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“It’s obvious the sheriff is not taking the family’s grief seriously,” Trichell said. “They cannot get closure if there are no answers.”
In its own statement, the sheriff’s office said that it is reviewing toxicology results and that a review of video evidence from an area near where Quawan’s body was found showed that no one else was with him before his death, NBC reports.


theroot--2020-11-16--Forever President Barack Obama on Lame-Duck Trump: He’s Denying Reality

Former President Obama is the ex who left you and has a condo in the hip part of town .
He ’ s vegan now and exfoliating ( he never cared about his skin when y ’ all were together ) and drinking water and doing yoga .
Yoga !
He used to laugh at you for watching yoga on YouTube and he even once asked you if there was a YogaTube , and he laughed and you got mad .
He ’ s so much better without you .
And you hate to see it .
Anyway , America @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s time for the oddly shaped squatter in the White House to concede because he ’ s the ex that won ’ t let go .
President Trump is the ex who calls your cell phone from a Google number only to hang up when you answer .
President Trump is the ex who will drive past your home just to see if your car is there .
President Trump will try to act like he ’ s having the time of his life at the party where he knew you were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ even picked out an outfit just for the occasion .
During an interview with 60 Minutes , former President Obama noted that enough is enough and America has ended it with the current president .
“ A president is a public servant .
They are temporary occupants of the office , by design , ” Obama told correspondent Scott Pelley , the Washington Post reports .
“ And when your time is up , then it is your job to put the country first and think beyond your own ego , and your @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” “ My advice to President Trump is , if you want at this late stage in the game to be remembered as somebody who put country first , it ’ s time for you to do the same thing , ” Obama said .
Obama has really tried to stay out of America ’ s business as it can date whoever it wants now .
But now that Trump is also an ex , Obama made his most forceful statement against the president and the Republican Party that enables him by pointing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ one thing , but the GOP “ clearly know better ” then allowing Trump ’ s made-up claims of voter fraud to go forward .
Trump has yet to acknowledge that he lost this election .
In fact , on Sunday , he tweeted , “ I won the election ” to the collective laughs of the 306 electoral votes that President-elect Joe Biden received .
Obama noted a sentiment that I ’ ve said before ( fine , I ’ ve never said it , but Trump stays lying and no one @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Why not me ?
! )
in which he wondered if Trump merely exposed what was always there .
“ I don ’ t see him as the cause for our divisions and the problems with our government , ” Obama said of Trump .
“ I think he ’ s an accelerant , but they preceded him , and sadly are going to likely outlast him .
”

Former President Obama is the ex who left you and has a condo in the hip part of town. He’s vegan now and exfoliating (he never cared about his skin when y’all were together) and drinking water and doing yoga. Yoga! He used to laugh at you for watching yoga on YouTube and he even once asked you if there was a YogaTube, and he laughed and you got mad.
He’s so much better without you. And you hate to see it.
Anyway, America’s most beloved ex-president said it’s time for the oddly shaped squatter in the White House to concede because he’s the ex that won’t let go. President Trump is the ex who calls your cell phone from a Google number only to hang up when you answer. President Trump is the ex who will drive past your home just to see if your car is there. President Trump will try to act like he’s having the time of his life at the party where he knew you were going to be for two weeks and even picked out an outfit just for the occasion.
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During an interview with 60 Minutes, former President Obama noted that enough is enough and America has ended it with the current president.
“A president is a public servant. They are temporary occupants of the office, by design,” Obama told correspondent Scott Pelley, the Washington Post reports. “And when your time is up, then it is your job to put the country first and think beyond your own ego, and your own interests, and your own disappointments.”
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“My advice to President Trump is, if you want at this late stage in the game to be remembered as somebody who put country first, it’s time for you to do the same thing,” Obama said.
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Obama has really tried to stay out of America’s business as it can date whoever it wants now. But now that Trump is also an ex, Obama made his most forceful statement against the president and the Republican Party that enables him by pointing out that Trump being a liar is one thing, but the GOP “clearly know better” then allowing Trump’s made-up claims of voter fraud to go forward.
Trump has yet to acknowledge that he lost this election. In fact, on Sunday, he tweeted, “I won the election” to the collective laughs of the 306 electoral votes that President-elect Joe Biden received.
Advertisement
Obama noted a sentiment that I’ve said before (fine, I’ve never said it, but Trump stays lying and no one has called him on his fuckshit! Why not me?!) in which he wondered if Trump merely exposed what was always there.
“I don’t see him as the cause for our divisions and the problems with our government,” Obama said of Trump. “I think he’s an accelerant, but they preceded him, and sadly are going to likely outlast him.”


theroot--2020-11-16--Slap an Apple Watch Series 6 or SE to Your Wrist for up to $50 Less Today

Foolishly , I bought the 44mm Apple Watch Series 6 at full price— $ 429 for the GPS/non-LTE version—back in September .
For a limited time , you can snatch one up yourself for $ 379 over at Amazon in Space Gray , or cop the smaller 40mm Series 6 in ( PRODUCT ) RED , Gold w/ Pink Sand Sport band , or Silver w/ White Sport band for $ 349 .
( The only catch is the Space Gray model doesn ’ t ship until November 30 . )
So far , the Series 6 has been kind @ @ @ @ @ @ @ S6 dual-core processor , advanced fitness tracking capabilities , and most importantly to me , the ability to stream music without my phone in reach .
That said , I almost regret buying the Series 6 knowing what I know now about the SE .
The exclusive features aren ’ t for everyone , including myself .
If you don ’ t need an ECG sensor or blood oxygen monitoring , the more affordable Apple Watch SE is the Apple Watch to buy this year .
Though it does use the 1-year-older Series @ @ @ @ @ @ @ twice as fast as a Series 3 and honestly doesn ’ t cost much more at the current $ 230 sale price .
Regardless of which color you go with , the 40mm Apple Watch SE is $ 49 off .
Only in Silver ( again , with the White Sport band ) , the larger 44mm size has the same discount , bringing the checkout totals for both down to $ 230 and $ 260 , respectively .
The 44mm is also available in Space Gray for a less substantial $ 20 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all the most commonly used features of the Series 6 , without the hefty price tag .
Get it if you don ’ t need the in-depth health stuff .
But don ’ t take it from me .
My wife , the wearables expert in our household had this to say in her review for Gizmodo : Unless your top priority is future-proofed advanced health-monitoring , or you just really love an always-on display , you should get a Watch SE .
I promise you won ’ t feel like you ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ re not sure if you like smartwatches enough to plop down $ 400 , then absolutely the Watch SE is the way to go .
Don ’ t even look at the $ 200 Series 3 .
Don ’ t even think about it for your children , as it doesn ’ t even support the Family Setup feature that the cheapest watch seems perfect for .
While the Series 3 was a great smartwatch , its time has passed .
We thank it for its service and wish it a happy afterlife @

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

Apple Watch Series 6 (40mm) | $350 | Amazon
Apple Watch Series 6 (44mm) | $380 | Amazon
Foolishly, I bought the 44mm Apple Watch Series 6 at full price—$529—back in September. For a limited time, however, you can snatch one up yourself in the smaller, 40mm form factor for just $350 in your choice of (PRODUCT)RED, Gold, or Space Gray. Meanwhile, the 44mm version I have is down to $380 in (PRODUCT)RED, Space Gray, and Silver. Keep in mind, these are all GPS-only models, so anyone hoping to stream music or receive text messages on the go without your phone nearby is out of luck. Another caveat is that only certain colors will arrive before Christmas, which could be a dealbreaker for some last-minute holiday shoppers. Still, it’s the biggest discount we’ve seen on the Apple Watch Series 6 since Black Friday.
So far, the Series 6 has been kind to me, what with its faster S6 dual-core processor, advanced fitness tracking capabilities, and most importantly to me, the ability to stream music without my phone in reach. That said, I almost regret buying the Series 6 knowing what I know now about the SE. The exclusive features aren’t for everyone, including myself. If you don’t need an ECG sensor or blood oxygen monitoring, the more affordable Apple Watch SE is the Apple Watch to buy this year. Though it does use the 1-year-older Series 5 chip, it’s still twice as fast as a Series 3 and honestly doesn’t cost much more at the current $250 to $300 sale price depending on the configuration.
But don’t take it from me. My wife, the wearables expert in our household had this to say in her review for Gizmodo:
Unless your top priority is future-proofed advanced health-monitoring, or you just really love an always-on display, you should get a Watch SE. I promise you won’t feel like you’ve been cheated. If you’re not sure if you like smartwatches enough to plop down $400, then absolutely the Watch SE is the way to go. Don’t even look at the $200 Series 3. Don’t even think about it for your children, as it doesn’t even support the Family Setup feature that the cheapest watch seems perfect for. While the Series 3 was a great smartwatch, its time has passed. We thank it for its service and wish it a happy afterlife.
This story was originally published by Gabe Carey on 11/16/2020 and updated with new information on 12/17/2020.


theroot--2020-11-16--The Knot Jumps the Broom: The Wedding Giant Debuts an Invitation Collection by Black Artists

With the ongoing impacts of a global pandemic , we ’ ve had to get creative with our celebrations , as of late—but sometimes , love won ’ t let us wait .
Some of our favorite weddings of all time have taken place during quarantine , the enforced intimacy often placing a much more profound emphasis on the union rather than the magnitude of the event .
It ’ s also been a year in which Black voices , aesthetics , and creatives have been given long-overdue focus—a trend Black couples have traditionally extended to our nuptials , as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ dream of infusing our white weddings with Black impact , wedding industry leader The Knot is now offering an inviting and inclusive new option for all engaged couples .
In keeping with both the times and its own consistent push toward more awareness and diversity , on Monday , the brand introduced the Black Artist Collective on its newly launched The Knot Invitations— “ a one-stop-shop for all engaged couples ’ wedding invitation and paper needs , ” per a release provided to The Glow Up , which also reads : The debut @ @ @ @ @ @ @ female artists : Melissa Koby ( Tampa , Fla ) , Christine Llewellyn Ohemeng ( South Orange , N.J. ) , Chantell Marlow ( Peoria , Ill. ) , and Reyna Noriega ( Miami , Fla. ) .
According to The Knot , “ Each of these artists has designed stationery suites offering a variety of products , including save-the-dates , wedding invitations , wedding response cards , wedding programs , guest books , table numbers , thank-you cards , coordinating wedding website designs and more.
” “ We are so excited to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Chantell and Reyna , to share their stories , and to have their designs inspire our couples—like they have us , ” says Kristen Maxwell Cooper , editor-in-chief of The Knot .
“ With The Knot Invitations and collections like the Black Artists Collective , we have the opportunity to showcase and amplify the work of artists from around the world .
The Black Artists Collective brings a new energy to our paper offerings and gives millions of couples access to incredible artwork as they determine their unique wedding style and communicate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ me , art is in itself a love language .
An artist pours their heart into their work , ” says Melissa Koby , whose designs for The Knot “ reinforce the message of unity.
” “ When you look at artwork , you are looking at the emotions of the creator .
When you buy art , you are showing a deeper appreciation for what they ( the artist ) love .
When you give art to someone , you ’ re spreading that love.
” Love and romance may be universal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ artists don ’ t shy away from infusing their art with their culture .
For instance , while she considers her illustrations for The Knot a “ tool for couples as they define their special day , ” popular Miami-based artist Reyna Noriega also notes : “ My identity as a B lack and Afro-Latina woman shows up naturally in the dynamic ways I like to incorporate movement , color and joy .
I am also very intentional in my choices to illustrate women of color and offer representation that doesn ’ t @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ Protest art , political art , educational art , and others like it , make it possible for conversations to be had , stories to be shared , and ideas to be communicated across political divides , across geographic divides , across racial divides , and across the nation as a whole , ” she says , giving deeper perspective on her bohemian-inspired floral invitation design .
“ [ W ] edding art—whether stationery , event decor , florals , and more—help couples reflect on their unique love story and relationship.
” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , “ unique ” will likely be applicable to most of the ceremonies still taking place in 2020—as The Knot notes , “ more than a third of to-be-weds in the US with weddings between September 2020 and January 2021 have postponed their celebrations due to COVID-19.
” But if and when those weddings proceed , The Knot Invitations is “ where engaged couples can find hundreds of affordable and customizable invitations and stationery designs that will showcase their unique personalities , love stories and wedding styles , ” —including those much-needed “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reprints through 2020 , all on theme , including matching wedding website designs .
“ Additionally , in partnership with American Forests , The Knot will plant a tree in an area of crucial need with every purchase on The Knot Invitations through the end of 2020 , ” says the brand .
It ’ s undoubtedly a stressful time ( as if planning a wedding isn ’ t stressful enough ) , but with help of The Knot ’ s new collaborators , it can still be beautiful—and an enduring symbol of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ my own wedding planning nearly ten years ago , I am intimately familiar with just how important each and every decision is to couples , ” says Christine Llewellyn Ohemeng of Christine Joy Design , whose Caribbean-inspired watercolor-style aesthetics adorn her offerings for The Knot .
“ To think that they will decide to use my design for that first communication to their guests is such an honor .
”

With the ongoing impacts of a global pandemic, we’ve had to get creative with our celebrations, as of late—but sometimes, love won’t let us wait. Some of our favorite weddings of all time have taken place during quarantine, the enforced intimacy often placing a much more profound emphasis on the union rather than the magnitude of the event.
Advertisement
It’s also been a year in which Black voices, aesthetics, and creatives have been given long-overdue focus—a trend Black couples have traditionally extended to our nuptials, as well. For those of us who dream of infusing our white weddings with Black impact, wedding industry leader The Knot is now offering an inviting and inclusive new option for all engaged couples. In keeping with both the times and its own consistent push toward more awareness and diversity, on Monday, the brand introduced the Black Artist Collective on its newly launched The Knot Invitations—“a one-stop-shop for all engaged couples’ wedding invitation and paper needs,” per a release provided to The Glow Up, which also reads:
The Knot Invitations’ Black Artists Collective provides couples an opportunity to support and showcase the work of creatives of color throughout their wedding planning journey. The Black Artists Collective also serves as the first of many collections on The Knot Invitations dedicated to amplifying the work of underrepresented communities and is part of The Knot’s larger commitment to help couples become better allies through its content, products, tools and services.
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The debut collection features the work of four Black female artists: Melissa Koby (Tampa, Fla), Christine Llewellyn Ohemeng (South Orange, N.J.), Chantell Marlow (Peoria, Ill.), and Reyna Noriega (Miami, Fla.). According to The Knot, “Each of these artists has designed stationery suites offering a variety of products, including save-the-dates, wedding invitations, wedding response cards, wedding programs, guest books, table numbers, thank-you cards, coordinating wedding website designs and more.”
“We are so excited to feature the work of Melissa, Christine, Chantell and Reyna, to share their stories, and to have their designs inspire our couples—like they have us,” says Kristen Maxwell Cooper, editor-in-chief of The Knot. “With The Knot Invitations and collections like the Black Artists Collective, we have the opportunity to showcase and amplify the work of artists from around the world. The Black Artists Collective brings a new energy to our paper offerings and gives millions of couples access to incredible artwork as they determine their unique wedding style and communicate that with their guests.”
Advertisement
“To me, art is in itself a love language. An artist pours their heart into their work,” says Melissa Koby, whose designs for The Knot “reinforce the message of unity.” “When you look at artwork, you are looking at the emotions of the creator. When you buy art, you are showing a deeper appreciation for what they (the artist) love. When you give art to someone, you’re spreading that love.”
Advertisement
Love and romance may be universal, but on the whole, these artists don’t shy away from infusing their art with their culture. For instance, while she considers her illustrations for The Knot a “tool for couples as they define their special day,” popular Miami-based artist Reyna Noriega also notes: “My identity as a B lack and Afro-Latina woman shows up naturally in the dynamic ways I like to incorporate movement, color and joy. I am also very intentional in my choices to illustrate women of color and offer representation that doesn’t always exist.”
Chantell Marlow agrees. “Protest art, political art, educational art, and others like it, make it possible for conversations to be had, stories to be shared, and ideas to be communicated across political divides, across geographic divides, across racial divides, and across the nation as a whole,” she says, giving deeper perspective on her bohemian-inspired floral invitation design. “[W]edding art—whether stationery, event decor, florals, and more—help couples reflect on their unique love story and relationship.”
Advertisement
Amid an ongoing pandemic and renewed lockdowns, “unique” will likely be applicable to most of the ceremonies still taking place in 2020—as The Knot notes, “more than a third of to-be-weds in the US with weddings between September 2020 and January 2021 have postponed their celebrations due to COVID-19.” But if and when those weddings proceed, The Knot Invitations is “where engaged couples can find hundreds of affordable and customizable invitations and stationery designs that will showcase their unique personalities, love stories and wedding styles,”—including those much-needed “Change the Date” cards and free reprints through 2020, all on theme, including matching wedding website designs. “Additionally, in partnership with American Forests, The Knot will plant a tree in an area of crucial need with every purchase on The Knot Invitations through the end of 2020,” says the brand.
Advertisement
It’s undoubtedly a stressful time (as if planning a wedding isn’t stressful enough), but with help of The Knot’s new collaborators, it can still be beautiful—and an enduring symbol of Black love. “Having gone through my own wedding planning nearly ten years ago, I am intimately familiar with just how important each and every decision is to couples,” says Christine Llewellyn Ohemeng of Christine Joy Design, whose Caribbean-inspired watercolor-style aesthetics adorn her offerings for The Knot. “To think that they will decide to use my design for that first communication to their guests is such an honor.”


theroot--2020-11-16--E! People’s Choice Awards 2020: Tyler Perry Is the People’s Champ

Another day , another awards show !
The E !
People ’ s Choice Awards , ( or PCAs for short ) , aired Sunday night and it went off without a hitch .
Let ’ s get into it !
Host Demi Lovato kicked things off with a Beyoncé-esque walk to the front of the Barker Hangar stage sporting a starry , sparkly dress and some fire-ass blonde bundles .
She was joined by a virtual audience of fans and viewers and even interacted with a few , including “ Jimmy , from New York , ” who really @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon ) .
Now , on to the meat and potatoes of the show !
One of the biggest wins of the night was Tyler Perry , who took home The People ’ s Champion Award , where he delivered a very emotional speech about perseverance .
“ In this world , we ’ re all digging wells , in our lives , digging wells in relationships , we put in time and effort and energy and sometimes it doesn ’ t give us what we need @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and effort and energy into dreams and business and it doesn ’ t give us what we were after .
But if you just keep digging , you may be four inches away from every gift and every blessing you ever wanted in your life .
Had I given up when I was homeless , sleeping in my car , hungry , had I given up these people that you see on the screen right now wouldn ’ t be part of my dream.
” Will Smith took home the award for Male @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Haddish won for Female Movie Star .
Smith ’ s movie Bad Boys For Life also won the Movie of 2020 award as well .
Cardi B. and Megan Thee Stallion ’ s “ WAP ” also won the Collaboration Song of 2020 .
And Zendaya and Lebron James took home the awards for Style Star and Gamechanger of 2020 , respectively .
Per usual , the edge-snatching , dynamic singing duo ChloexHalle shut it down with their energetic performance of “ Ungodly Hour.
” At this point , I ’ m gon @ @ @ @ @ @ @ give my girls their flowers because I haven ’ t seen a performance they HAVEN ’ T KILLED .
Doja Cat also won the New Artist of 2020 award and what was arguably one of the biggest awards of the night , Tracee Ellis Ross fittingly took home the Fashion Icon Award .
If I ’ m honest , this award show left me upset by a lot , ( particularly Issa Rae & Tracee Ellis Ross ’ snubs for Drama Movie Star and John David Washington ’ s snub for Action Movie @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people have spoken , I guess .
Better luck next year !
For a complete list of winners , head to eonline.com !

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

Another day, another awards show! The E! People’s Choice Awards, (or PCAs for short), aired Sunday night and it went off without a hitch. Let’s get into it!
Host Demi Lovato kicked things off with a Beyoncé-esque walk to the front of the Barker Hangar stage sporting a starry, sparkly dress and some fire-ass blonde bundles. She was joined by a virtual audience of fans and viewers and even interacted with a few, including “Jimmy, from New York,” who really turned out to be Jimmy Fallon (from The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon).
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Now, on to the meat and potatoes of the show!
Winners
One of the biggest wins of the night was Tyler Perry, who took home The People’s Champion Award, where he delivered a very emotional speech about perseverance.
“In this world, we’re all digging wells, in our lives, digging wells in relationships, we put in time and effort and energy and sometimes it doesn’t give us what we need,” Perry expressed. “Time and effort and energy into dreams and business and it doesn’t give us what we were after. But if you just keep digging, you may be four inches away from every gift and every blessing you ever wanted in your life. Had I given up when I was homeless, sleeping in my car, hungry, had I given up these people that you see on the screen right now wouldn’t be part of my dream.”
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Will Smith took home the award for Male Movie Star of 2020, whereas Tiffany Haddish won for Female Movie Star.
Smith’s movie Bad Boys For Life also won the Movie of 2020 award as well.
Comedian Leslie Jones won the Comedy Act of 2020.
Cardi B. and Megan Thee Stallion’s “WAP” also won the Collaboration Song of 2020.
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And Zendaya and Lebron James took home the awards for Style Star and Gamechanger of 2020, respectively.
Performances
Per usual, the edge-snatching, dynamic singing duo ChloexHalle shut it down with their energetic performance of “Ungodly Hour.” At this point, I’m gonna need all these awards shows to give my girls their flowers because I haven’t seen a performance they HAVEN’T KILLED.
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Everything Else
Doja Cat also won the New Artist of 2020 award and what was arguably one of the biggest awards of the night, Tracee Ellis Ross fittingly took home the Fashion Icon Award. If I’m honest, this award show left me upset by a lot, (particularly Issa Rae & Tracee Ellis Ross’ snubs for Drama Movie Star and John David Washington’s snub for Action Movie Star for Tenet), but the people have spoken, I guess.
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Better luck next year! For a complete list of winners, head to eonline.com!