theroot--2020-04-27--Snag One of Too Faced's Best Items for Free With Any $45 Purchase

Starting today until May 4 , Too Faced has a spectacular deal for you .
With any $ 45 purchase @ @ @ @ @ receive their self-care duo set .
This includes a hangover scrunchie and the deluxe hangover @ @ @ @ @ a spectacular deal because that cream is $ 42 on its own and worth every @ @ @ @ @ a great hydrating night cream to give you a replenished glowing look in the morning @ @ @ @ @ you ’ ve used Too Faced before you know their products are quality and smell @ @ @ @ @ no different .
If you need help picking something to get to that $ 45 @ @ @ @ @ eyeshadow , the Pretty Puppy Palette ( $ 28 ) , and the Shadow Insurance @ @ @ @ @ ) .
Free shipping on all orders too !

Sheilah Villari on Kinja Deals, shared by Ignacia to The Root

FREE Self-Care Duo | Too Faced | Use code LOVEMYSKIN
Starting today until May 4, Too Faced has a spectacular deal for you. With any $45 purchase use the code LOVEMYSKIN and receive their self-care duo set. This includes a hangover scrunchie and the deluxe hangover pillow cream.
This is a spectacular deal because that cream is $42 on its own and worth every penny. If you need a great hydrating night cream to give you a replenished glowing look in the morning this is it. If you’ve used Too Faced before you know their products are quality and smell amazing, this one is no different.
If you need help picking something to get to that $45 let me recommend my favorite eyeshadow, the Pretty Puppy Palette ($28), and the Shadow Insurance Eye Primer ($22). Free shipping on all orders too!


theroot--2020-04-27--TikTok Delight Tabitha Brown Has Signed to CAA—Let's Have a Celebratory Smoothie Bowl!

E ver since we ’ ve been ordered to stay at home amid the coronavirus pandemic , t he act of seeking some form of joy has amplified , which has also subsequently provided more time to worry and grieve due to the effects of this crisis .
But t hat ’ s why Tabitha is right on time .
The vegan viral sensation who racked over two million followers on TikTok has signed to Creative Artists Agency ( CAA ) , The Hollywood Reporter confirmed on Friday .
I first came across Tabitha in early April when her TikTok @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( in fact , this or Instagram is usually how I discover TikTokers ) .
There was something about her Southern accent ( she ’ s from North Carolina ! )
that embraced me like a warm hug on a sunny Sunday .
And thus , “ like so , like that ” became the official way to describe how something is done .
Plus , the tutorial was persuasive because I ended up getting a bunch of ingredients to make my own Tabitha-inspired smoothie bowl .
I didn ’ t actually make @ @ @ @ @ @ @ so overwhelmed by current circumstances , but I will one day “ because that ’ s my business.
” Shut up , you ’ re not my real mom !
Tabitha ’ s voice and general aura are so soothing , she somehow extinguished my carnivore rage that usually surfaces when vegans try to turn meatless products into meat ( because they will never be meat ! )
.
Watching this sparkling social media maven who ’ s been a vegan since 2016 made me completely forget I was offended by the concept @ @ @ @ @ @ @ power Tabitha has .
“ I was in prayer and I heard a voice that said , ‘ Start doing videos , ’ ” the 41-year-old actor told BuzzFeed in a recent profile , who also revealed that past agents would always tell her to tone down her Southern accent and recommended that she keep her hair long .
But , that wasn ’ t the true Tabitha .
It definitely wasn ’ t the Tabitha we ’ ve come to love .
The fact that Tabitha has been able to monetize her @ @ @ @ @ @ @ landing an agent at one of Hollywood ’ s top agencies is amazing , especially since there was a hilarious learning curve with TikTok at the early stages .
If you ’ re looking for even more warm-and-fuzzies , get into the love jones between Tabitha and her hubby boo .
By the way , because I know you want to know , she ’ s completely fine with being called “ auntie.
” So , next time you “ need a hug ” and realize you can ’ t get a physical @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Brown will serve as an adequate substitution for now .
Like so , like that .

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

Tabitha Brown is a walking good mood pill.
E ver since we’ve been ordered to stay at home amid the coronavirus pandemic, t he act of seeking some form of joy has amplified , which has also subsequently provided more time to worry and grieve due to the effects of this crisis.
But t hat’s why Tabitha is right on time. The vegan viral sensation who racked over two million followers on TikTok has signed to Creative Artists Agency (CAA), The Hollywood Reporter confirmed on Friday.
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I first came across Tabitha in early April when her TikTok recipe tutorial for smoothie bowls hit Twitter (in fact, this or Instagram is usually how I discover TikTokers). There was something about her Southern accent (she’s from North Carolina!) that embraced me like a warm hug on a sunny Sunday. And thus, “like so, like that” became the official way to describe how something is done.
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Plus, the tutorial was persuasive because I ended up getting a bunch of ingredients to make my own Tabitha-inspired smoothie bowl. I didn’t actually make it yet because I’m still so overwhelmed by current circumstances, but I will one day “because that’s my business.” Shut up, you’re not my real mom!
Tabitha’s voice and general aura are so soothing, she somehow extinguished my carnivore rage that usually surfaces when vegans try to turn meatless products into meat (because they will never be meat!). Watching this sparkling social media maven who’s been a vegan since 2016 made me completely forget I was offended by the concept of carrot bacon. This is the power Tabitha has.
Advertisement
“I was in prayer and I heard a voice that said, ‘Start doing videos,’” the 41-year-old actor told BuzzFeed in a recent profile, who also revealed that past agents would always tell her to tone down her Southern accent and recommended that she keep her hair long. But, that wasn’t the true Tabitha. It definitely wasn’t the Tabitha we’ve come to love.
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The fact that Tabitha has been able to monetize her bubbly brand and fulfill her dreams by landing an agent at one of Hollywood’s top agencies is amazing, especially since there was a hilarious learning curve with TikTok at the early stages.
Advertisement
If you’re looking for even more warm-and-fuzzies, get into the love jones between Tabitha and her hubby boo.
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By the way, because I know you want to know, she’s completely fine with being called “auntie.”
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So, next time you “need a hug” and realize you can’t get a physical one due to social distancing, Tabitha Brown will serve as an adequate substitution for now. Like so, like that.


theroot--2020-04-27--Manors & Bad Manners: Black Twitter Calls Out the Double Standard in a White Writer's Disrespect of

Manors & Bad Manners: Black Twitter Calls Out the Double Standard in a White Writer's Disrespect of a Black Influencer

You would think that during a global pandemic that has united us all ( OK , maybe just the reasonable folks ) in fear for our lives and livelihoods that folks would have better things to do than to troll and be toxic on the internet—but my friends , you would be wrong .
In fact , many of us seemingly don ’ t know what to do with all the extra time we now have on our hands due to these stay-at-home orders—and you know what they say about “ idle hands.
” But you know who else has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have long known this truth to be evident , British writer and editor Liv Siddall recently found out the hard way when she took to Twitter to announce her departure from Instagram .
( I know ; make it make sense . )
And because nobody asked , Siddall made sure to blame her exodus on an idyllic-looking image of a woman in a sundress and hat , social distancing from the world while enjoying a book and an apple atop an immaculately styled picnic blanket replete with pillows and flowers as a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ blue sky provided the perfect backdrop .
“ Don ’ t know when I ’ ll be back , but let it be known that this was the image that did it , ” Siddall wrote—because again , no one asked ( and last time we checked , unfollowing or simply scrolling past are also still viable options ) .
As a “ writer , content producer and podcast creator specializing in music , art and design , great people and pop culture , ” according to her Linkedin , Siddall , a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Riposte magazine , is no doubt accustomed to highly stylized images like this one—after all , from the sound of it , it ’ s part of her job ( as it is mine ) .
Online influencer culture was built on images like these , but if we ’ re really being honest , they long predate social media , as seen through the rise of lifestyle experts like Martha Stewart , “ Barefoot Contessa ” Ina Garten , Australian food stylist Donna Hay , British royal cousin and interior designer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ founder Rachel Ashwell and more recently , Gwyneth Paltrow ’ s Goop empire .
In fact , writer-director Nancy Meyers ’ entire onscreen aesthetic ( as seen in rom-com hits like Something ’ s Got ta Give , The Holiday and It ’ s Complicated ) has mirrored a cottage industry ( pun intended ) of airy , camera-ready interiors and tableaux as aspirational as they may arguably be insufferable—pretty much par for the course in the current lifestyle influencer realm .
With that in mind , one might wonder why this image @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that broke Siddall ’ s Instagram account .
But what do all of the above women have in common ?
The unambiguously brown-skinned woman pictured in the photo that so offended Siddall ’ s sensibilities ?
Her name is Paula Sutton of Hill House Vintage , a digital creator , stylist and former bookings editor for Elle who specializes in English country interiors , a setting in which black women are rarely if ever featured .
Nevertheless , Sutton not only owns an estate in the English countryside but dares to center herself @ @ @ @ @ @ @ & Country photo spread ... and we ’ re here for it .
But what for us is a refreshing moment of representation , however elitist in its presentation ( hey , just like white folks , we ’ re everywhere—we ’ re looking at you , Duchess Meghan ) quickly devolved into an online ki-ki for Siddall and a few of her fellow white media friends .
Gleefully co-signing her disdain , a few went so far as to insinuate the “ c-word ” upon an unassuming and altogether innocent Sutton—and Black @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our ally friends ) was not having it .
Predictably , Siddall ’ s account has since been locked , though at least one of her followers ’ derogatory tweets remains undeleted—and screenshots are forever , so there ’ s that .
( And again , we highly doubt she keeps that same energy for influencers of her own race . )
She also purportedly apologized to Sutton , though not nearly as publicly as she derided her .
But since Sutton was the focus of Siddall ’ s criticism , it ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there , as well .
And we are happy to report that despite the disrespect , “ Auntie Paula , ” as she ’ s now fondly known , is doing just fine , as she reported on Saturday via Instagram , where she is still living her best , bourgie , black British life and likely won ’ t be stopping anytime soon .
Well , it ’ s been the strangest 24 hours that I ’ ve ever experienced on social media .
It started with a twitter rant using my @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wrong Instagram ( the author has since contacted me privately and apologised ) and ended with an incredible outpouring of love , support and kindness that I will be eternally grateful for .
I - like many people - started this account to talk about the things in life that make me happy ; Architecture , A styled room here , a cushion there , a baked cake , a summer dress or a bunch of flowers ...
It turned into a space where I felt comfortable to show my face and to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of positivity and being grateful , and more recently exploring my feelings of loss in losing my mother whilst still trying to seek out joy ...
It ’ s always been a safe little corner to explore a creative side that I kept hidden for so long after servicing the creative endeavours of others .
I enjoy creating little scenes and stories ...
I ’ m inspired by old Hollywood , and by the fashion photography of the 1950 ’ s and 60 ’ s , and all that is reflected in my @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ t realise - in my naivety - is that some people look at the pictures without reading all of the captions and therefore understanding who I am ...
These images are meant to be joyful and fun , and are styled and created to please the eye .
They are a tiny snapshot of an otherwise very mundane and normal life .
Too shallow for you ?
Perhaps ... .but I ’ m a firm believer in taking the responsibility to find the content that brings YOU joy and moving on from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ just want to thank each and everyone of you who understands that , and who came out in droves to follow , cheer on , show solidarity and support .
I ’ m not one to dwell on things , so that ’ s all I shall say on the matter , but THANK YOU .
From every inch of my heart .
With love ‘ Auntie Paula ’ - as it seems I am now known !
!
xx❤💫 Sutton is clearly more blessed in social graces than we are , as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Siddall for filth .
But again , we ’ re in the middle of a pandemic ; no need to heap on the toxicity .
So instead , please join us and over 200 , 000 of our new friends in a little escapism over at our new favorite IG account—and superimpose yourself into these picturesque surroundings if you find yourself in need of a little pick-me-up today .
Because brown girls deserve storybook settings , too .

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

You would think that during a global pandemic that has united us all (OK, maybe just the reasonable folks) in fear for our lives and livelihoods that folks would have better things to do than to troll and be toxic on the internet—but my friends, you would be wrong. In fact, many of us seemingly don’t know what to do with all the extra time we now have on our hands due to these stay-at-home orders—and you know what they say about “idle hands.”
But you know who else has time? Black Twitter.
While we have long known this truth to be evident, British writer and editor Liv Siddall recently found out the hard way when she took to Twitter to announce her departure from Instagram. (I know; make it make sense.) And because nobody asked, Siddall made sure to blame her exodus on an idyllic-looking image of a woman in a sundress and hat, social distancing from the world while enjoying a book and an apple atop an immaculately styled picnic blanket replete with pillows and flowers as a storybook-like manor, vintage truck and cloudless blue sky provided the perfect backdrop.
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“Don’t know when I’ll be back, but let it be known that this was the image that did it,” Siddall wrote—because again, no one asked (and last time we checked, unfollowing or simply scrolling past are also still viable options).
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As a “writer, content producer and podcast creator specializing in music, art and design, great people and pop culture,” according to her Linkedin, Siddall, a story editor at WeTransfer and deputy editor of Riposte magazine, is no doubt accustomed to highly stylized images like this one—after all, from the sound of it, it’s part of her job (as it is mine). Online influencer culture was built on images like these, but if we’re really being honest, they long predate social media, as seen through the rise of lifestyle experts like Martha Stewart, “Barefoot Contessa” Ina Garten, Australian food stylist Donna Hay, British royal cousin and interior designer India Hicks, “Shabby Chic” founder Rachel Ashwell and more recently, Gwyneth Paltrow’s Goop empire.
In fact, writer-director Nancy Meyers’ entire onscreen aesthetic (as seen in rom-com hits like Something’s Gotta Give, The Holiday and It’s Complicated) has mirrored a cottage industry (pun intended) of airy, camera-ready interiors and tableaux as aspirational as they may arguably be insufferable—pretty much par for the course in the current lifestyle influencer realm. With that in mind, one might wonder why this image, in particular, was the straw that broke Siddall’s Instagram account. But what do all of the above women have in common?
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They’re white.
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The unambiguously brown-skinned woman pictured in the photo that so offended Siddall’s sensibilities? Her name is Paula Sutton of Hill House Vintage, a digital creator, stylist and former bookings editor for Elle who specializes in English country interiors, a setting in which black women are rarely if ever featured. Nevertheless, Sutton not only owns an estate in the English countryside but dares to center herself in aspirational imagery that rivals any Town & Country photo spread...and we’re here for it.
Advertisement
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But what for us is a refreshing moment of representation, however elitist in its presentation (hey, just like white folks, we’re everywhere—we’re looking at you, Duchess Meghan) quickly devolved into an online ki-ki for Siddall and a few of her fellow white media friends. Gleefully co-signing her disdain, a few went so far as to insinuate the “c-word” upon an unassuming and altogether innocent Sutton—and Black Twitter (as well as several of our ally friends) was not having it.
Advertisement
Advertisement
Predictably, Siddall’s account has since been locked, though at least one of her followers’ derogatory tweets remains undeleted—and screenshots are forever, so there’s that. (And again, we highly doubt she keeps that same energy for influencers of her own race.) She also purportedly apologized to Sutton, though not nearly as publicly as she derided her. But since Sutton was the focus of Siddall’s criticism, it’s only right that our focus returns there, as well. And we are happy to report that despite the disrespect, “Auntie Paula,” as she’s now fondly known, is doing just fine, as she reported on Saturday via Instagram, where she is still living her best, bourgie, black British life and likely won’t be stopping anytime soon.
Well, it’s been the strangest 24 hours that I’ve ever experienced on social media. It started with a twitter rant using my picture as an example of what is wrong Instagram (the author has since contacted me privately and apologised) and ended with an incredible outpouring of love, support and kindness that I will be eternally grateful for. I - like many people - started this account to talk about the things in life that make me happy; Architecture, A styled room here, a cushion there, a baked cake, a summer dress or a bunch of flowers... It turned into a space where I felt comfortable to show my face and to also write a little about my feelings of positivity and being grateful, and more recently exploring my feelings of loss in losing my mother whilst still trying to seek out joy... It’s always been a safe little corner to explore a creative side that I kept hidden for so long after servicing the creative endeavours of others. I enjoy creating little scenes and stories... I’m inspired by old Hollywood, and by the fashion photography of the 1950’s and 60’s, and all that is reflected in my images. I suppose what I didn’t realise - in my naivety - is that some people look at the pictures without reading all of the captions and therefore understanding who I am... These images are meant to be joyful and fun, and are styled and created to please the eye. They are a tiny snapshot of an otherwise very mundane and normal life. Too shallow for you? Perhaps....but I’m a firm believer in taking the responsibility to find the content that brings YOU joy and moving on from the things that upset you. I just want to thank each and everyone of you who understands that, and who came out in droves to follow, cheer on, show solidarity and support. I’m not one to dwell on things, so that’s all I shall say on the matter, but THANK YOU. From every inch of my heart. With love ‘Auntie Paula’ - as it seems I am now known!! xx❤💫
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Sutton is clearly more blessed in social graces than we are, as our instinct was simply to continue reading Siddall for filth. But again, we’re in the middle of a pandemic; no need to heap on the toxicity. So instead, please join us and over 200,000 of our new friends in a little escapism over at our new favorite IG account—and superimpose yourself into these picturesque surroundings if you find yourself in need of a little pick-me-up today. Because brown girls deserve storybook settings, too.
Advertisement
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(Updated 3/3/22 with new details)


theroot--2020-04-27--Tyler Perry Drops Trailer for Upcoming Series Bruh

Tyler Perry is never not working , and he ’ s about to drop a new show that focuses on the friendships between black men .
Bruh is billed as a comedy series starring Barry Brewer , Mahdi Cocci , Phillip Mullings , Jr. and Monti Washington , and is slated to hit the BET+ streaming service on May 7 .
Not only will the series focus on black brotherhood , but it will also tackle some black male stereotypes head-on .
Per Deadline , the show follows four friends—John ( who works at a movie theater ) , Tom @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a lawyer ) , and Bill ( an architect ) —as they navigate life as now 30-somethings .
The trailer for the 24-episode series highlights each character ’ s experiences in their careers and romantic lives , such as Bill grappling with losing a woman he believes was “ The One , ” and one of Tom ’ s coworkers approaching him about her feelings towards him .
“ Whether fulfilling career dreams or finding love , these four college buddies now in their thirties find themselves learning to stand on their own @ @ @ @ @ @ @ other for support and guidance , ” the show synopsis reads .
“ Sometimes their love is tough and their honesty brutal , but they manage to see each other through every scenario with levity and laughter.
” “ Tyler Perry ’ s Bruh is executive produced , written , and directed by Tyler Perry , ” writes Deadline .
“ Michelle Sneed also serves as Executive Producer of the series for Tyler Perry Studios .
”

Tyler Perry is never not working, and he’s about to drop a new show that focuses on the friendships between black men.
Bruh is billed as a comedy series starring Barry Brewer, Mahdi Cocci, Phillip Mullings, Jr. and Monti Washington, and is slated to hit the BET+ streaming service on May 7. Not only will the series focus on black brotherhood, but it will also tackle some black male stereotypes head-on.
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Per Deadline, the show follows four friends—John (who works at a movie theater), Tom (a doctor), Mike (a lawyer), and Bill (an architect)—as they navigate life as now 30-somethings. The trailer for the 24-episode series highlights each character’s experiences in their careers and romantic lives, such as Bill grappling with losing a woman he believes was “The One,” and one of Tom’s coworkers approaching him about her feelings towards him.
“Whether fulfilling career dreams or finding love, these four college buddies now in their thirties find themselves learning to stand on their own two feet, while leaning on each other for support and guidance,” the show synopsis reads. “Sometimes their love is tough and their honesty brutal, but they manage to see each other through every scenario with levity and laughter.”
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“Tyler Perry’s Bruh is executive produced, written, and directed by Tyler Perry,” writes Deadline. “Michelle Sneed also serves as Executive Producer of the series for Tyler Perry Studios.”


theroot--2020-04-27--Trump Spent Sunday Raging on Twitter Because America's Starting to Realize He’s a Clown

During a press conference last week , the president of people who are now considering adding a little bleach to their smoothies was freestyling and going off-script , as he ’ s been known to do .
Trump was standing at the lectern when he began wondering aloud about the potential of moving both light and disinfectant inside the body .
So he turned to Dr. Deborah Birx , the White House coronavirus response coordinator and asked : “ So , supposing we hit the body with a tremendous—whether it ’ s ultraviolet or just very powerful light , ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ I think you said that hasn ’ t been checked but you ’ re going to test it .
“ And then I said , ‘ supposing you brought the light inside of the body , ’ which you can do either through the skin or in some other way .
And I think you said you ’ re going to test that too .
Sounds interesting , ” the president continued .
“ And then I see the disinfectant where it knocks it out in a minute .
One minute .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ do something like that , by injection inside or almost a cleaning ?
Then Trump pointed to his head and said : “ I ’ m not a doctor .
But I ’ m , like , a person that has a good you-know-what.
” This may have been the beginning of the end for the Trump press conference , and the blowback from disinfectant-gate supposedly has put the president into a funk that led to another one of his pouting rage-tweet episodes that only helped to bury him even more .
Twitter @ @ @ @ @ @ @ president ’ s suggestion that someone should consider ingesting or mainlining disinfectant .
It was so bad that doctors felt the need to warn against this .
It was so bad that Lysol ’ s parent company had to come out against it .
It was so bad that the president ’ s only defense was to claim that he was joking with reporters , which the president never does and would never do because the president hates reporters .
It was bad .
Really bad .
So bad that calls to poison @ @ @ @ @ @ @ In fact , at the president ’ s coronavirus press conference on Friday , he simply gave the status of things to date and then left without taking any questions .
Now , everyone knows that like a SoundCloud rapper trying to get discovered , the president can ’ t leave a microphone and an audience without spitting a freestyle .
He held no press conferences over the weekend , which had become standard for the president during the pandemic .
The president was so sad that the early morning tweeter didn ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ until noon , in which he tweeted , “ Happy Birthday to Melania , our great First Lady !
” at 12:06 p.m. , the Washington Post reports .
This was his only way of communicating with the first lady , who is sheltering in place at her boyfriend ’ s house and doesn ’ t have her phone on .
The president hit his usual form around 2 p.m. Sunday when he began tweeting and retweeting all kinds of goofy shit .
He was even more annoyed that a New York Times @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was bored by sitting in the White House all the time .
Basically , the president watches TV all day and is just a big grumpy baby throwing himself around because he ’ s not been able to play golf or sneak Russian prostitutes into the kitchen entrance .
Trump then tweeted that he ’ s “ the hardest working President in history ” because nothing says “ I ’ m working hard ” like tweeting about how hard you ’ re working .
Trump wasn ’ t done .
H e also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and have probably gotten more done in the first 3 1/2 years than any President in history , ” adding , “ The Fake News hates it !
” For proof of his hard work , Trump tweeted : “ I work from early in the morning until late at night.
” He added , “ haven ’ t left the White House in many months ( except to launch Hospital Ship Comfort ) in order to take care of Trade Deals , Military Rebuilding etc.
” Over the next seven hours or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and anyone he could , unleashing a barrage of more than two dozen tweets and retweets that targeted media outlets , high-profile commentators and hosts , and Democrats .
He also returned once more to the Russia probe and impeachment , promoting a tweet that accused his political adversaries of “ three failed coup attempts.
” The tweet went on to suggest with no evidence that the president ’ s opponents could “ attempt to steal the election ” by making the novel coronavirus ’ s impact on human lives seem worse than @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the president said reporters who covered him should return their “ Noble Prizes , ” appearing to confuse the Nobel Prizes with the Pulitzer Prizes for journalism .
Rather than correct himself , Trump deleted the “ Noble ” tweets , but then said he meant to use the word “ Noble , ” as a form of “ sarcasm.
” Trump went on to retweet commentary ridiculing his Democratic challenger Joe Biden for his syntax .
The notable uptick in Twitter activity came on the second consecutive day that Trump had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coronavirus briefing , events meant to inform the public that have instead been hijacked by the president and transformed into de facto political rallies , as The Washington Post ’ s Philip Bump and Ashley Parker reported .
So we may have lost the presidential press rallies disguised as conferences , which isn ’ t a bad thing .
In fact , it ’ s a great thing .
Also , what is the point of having a press person who doesn ’ t speak to the press ?
White House press secretary @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sweatpants , bedroom slippers and pumpkin spice-flavored smoothie .
It ’ s all a show and no one wants to see it anymore , and the president is having trouble coming back from a bad week , which may prove to be better for America .

President Trump fucked up.
During a press conference last week, the president of people who are now considering adding a little bleach to their smoothies was freestyling and going off-script, as he’s been known to do. Trump was standing at the lectern when he began wondering aloud about the potential of moving both light and disinfectant inside the body.
So he turned to Dr. Deborah Birx, the White House coronavirus response coordinator and asked:
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“So, supposing we hit the body with a tremendous—whether it’s ultraviolet or just very powerful light,” the president said, BBC reports. “I think you said that hasn’t been checked but you’re going to test it.
“And then I said, ‘supposing you brought the light inside of the body,’ which you can do either through the skin or in some other way. And I think you said you’re going to test that too. Sounds interesting,” the president continued.
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“And then I see the disinfectant where it knocks it out in a minute. One minute. And is there a way we can do something like that, by injection inside or almost a cleaning?
“So it’d be interesting to check that.”
Then Trump pointed to his head and said: “I’m not a doctor. But I’m, like, a person that has a good you-know-what.”
Advertisement
This may have been the beginning of the end for the Trump press conference, and the blowback from disinfectant-gate supposedly has put the president into a funk that led to another one of his pouting rage-tweet episodes that only helped to bury him even more.
Twitter was ablaze at the stupidity of the president’s suggestion that someone should consider ingesting or mainlining disinfectant. It was so bad that doctors felt the need to warn against this. It was so bad that Lysol’s parent company had to come out against it. It was so bad that the president’s only defense was to claim that he was joking with reporters, which the president never does and would never do because the president hates reporters.
Advertisement
It was bad. Really bad. So bad that calls to poison control centers across the country increased.
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In fact, at the president’s coronavirus press conference on Friday, he simply gave the status of things to date and then left without taking any questions. Now, everyone knows that like a SoundCloud rapper trying to get discovered, the president can’t leave a microphone and an audience without spitting a freestyle. He held no press conferences over the weekend, which had become standard for the president during the pandemic.
The president was so sad that the early morning tweeter didn’t send out his first Sunday tweet until noon, in which he tweeted, “Happy Birthday to Melania, our great First Lady!” at 12:06 p.m., the Washington Post reports. This was his only way of communicating with the first lady, who is sheltering in place at her boyfriend’s house and doesn’t have her phone on.
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The president hit his usual form around 2 p.m. Sunday when he began tweeting and retweeting all kinds of goofy shit. He was even more annoyed that a New York Times piece called him a shitty president who was bored by sitting in the White House all the time.
Basically, the president watches TV all day and is just a big grumpy baby throwing himself around because he’s not been able to play golf or sneak Russian prostitutes into the kitchen entrance.
Advertisement
Trump then tweeted that he’s “the hardest working President in history” because nothing says “I’m working hard” like tweeting about how hard you’re working.
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Trump wasn’t done. H e also noted he is “a hard worker and have probably gotten more done in the first 3 1/2 years than any President in history,” adding, “The Fake News hates it!”
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For proof of his hard work, Trump tweeted: “I work from early in the morning until late at night.” He added, “haven’t left the White House in many months (except to launch Hospital Ship Comfort) in order to take care of Trade Deals, Military Rebuilding etc.”
From the Post:
Over the next seven hours or so, Trump took aim at everything and anyone he could, unleashing a barrage of more than two dozen tweets and retweets that targeted media outlets, high-profile commentators and hosts, and Democrats. He also returned once more to the Russia probe and impeachment, promoting a tweet that accused his political adversaries of “three failed coup attempts.” The tweet went on to suggest with no evidence that the president’s opponents could “attempt to steal the election” by making the novel coronavirus’s impact on human lives seem worse than it really is. At one point, the president said reporters who covered him should return their “Noble Prizes,” appearing to confuse the Nobel Prizes with the Pulitzer Prizes for journalism. Rather than correct himself, Trump deleted the “Noble” tweets, but then said he meant to use the word “Noble,” as a form of “sarcasm.” Trump went on to retweet commentary ridiculing his Democratic challenger Joe Biden for his syntax. The notable uptick in Twitter activity came on the second consecutive day that Trump had not participated in a daily White House coronavirus briefing, events meant to inform the public that have instead been hijacked by the president and transformed into de facto political rallies, as The Washington Post’s Philip Bump and Ashley Parker reported.
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So we may have lost the presidential press rallies disguised as conferences, which isn’t a bad thing. In fact, it’s a great thing. Also, what is the point of having a press person who doesn’t speak to the press? White House press secretary Kayleigh McEnany is just a Juicy Couture sweatpants, bedroom slippers and pumpkin spice-flavored smoothie. It’s all a show and no one wants to see it anymore, and the president is having trouble coming back from a bad week, which may prove to be better for America.


theroot--2020-04-24--These Online Courses Will Keep You From Losing Your Mind in Quarantine

If you find yourself with more time on your hands than you usually have thanks to never-ending stay-at-home orders , this can be a good opportunity to learn how to slow down , to enjoy a new hobby , or learn a new skill .
Not sure where to start ?
There are tons of online classes out there for pretty much everything you can think of , plus many gyms and yoga studios and the like have temporarily migrated all their classes to the web .
Here are just options to keep you mentally ( and/or physically ) in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ online courses in a wide variety of topics relating to business , language , math , health sciences , web development , and more .
They work in partnership with accredited universities and big-name companies , like IBM , Johns Hopkins University , and NYU , and offer certificate and masters programs in addition to courses to get your feet wet in a new topic that interests you .
In addition to learning about algorithms , financial markets , nutrition , and entrepreneurship , you can also take classes like a Google-developed certificate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an entry-level job in IT .
Want to learn how to be a funnier writer , become a pro at makeup , or be an investigative journalist ?
Celebrities and best-selling authors , journalists , politicians , successful entrepreneurs , and musicians all teach courses on MasterClass , which you can access for $ 15 per month .
You can learn about entrepreneurship from Sara Blakely , who became the world ’ s youngest self-made billionaire after launching Spanx , humor writing from bestseller David Sedaris , creative writing from Margaret Atwood , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and production and beatmaking from Timbaland , among dozens of other courses .
Outdoorsy and super-active people have an extra hard time being told to stay inside at all costs .
AIM Adventure U—run by the same company that owns magazines like Backpacker , Climbing , SKI , and Yoga Journal—offers online courses to help you smash your outdoor goals while training inside your own home , like yoga for skiers .
They also offer classes to help you strengthen your body to defend against potential injury , learn to tie knots @ @ @ @ @ @ @ non-toxic plants out on the trail , and repair your own gear .
Many of the classes cost $ 100 or less .
The best way to learn a new language is simple : practice .
Practice even if you think you sound stupid , even if you know you ’ re making tons of mistakes , and even when it ’ s hard and exhausting .
If you ’ ve found yourself with a few spare hours to kill every day , start a new language with Rosetta Stone .
They offer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ subscription to all the language classes they offer for $ 199 total .
Languages include Spanish , Arabic , Japanese , Portuguese , Swedish , Mandarin , Hebrew , and many more .
You can either start from zero or , if you have some foundation in a language , start in a place that ’ s more aligned with your level .
Want to do some more passive language-learning when your brain needs a break from active exercises ?
I ’ ve found that watching Spanish Netflix shows from Spain and Mexico @ @ @ @ @ @ @ vocabulary .
Over the past two years , I ’ ve made a concerted effort to watch shows in Spanish with Spanish subtitles , rewinding when I miss a detail and taking the time to translate words I don ’ t know .
Now I live in Mexico City and so I practice constantly as part of my daily life , and I have no doubt that consuming Spanish media exponentially improved my comprehension in between trips to Latin America .
Lynda.com , now part of LinkedIn , offers access to thousands of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ photography basics to advanced photoshop skills , graphic design , the basic tenets of starting a freelance business of any kind , and several different coding languages .
Lynda offers a free one-month trial to anyone who wants to give it a shot , then memberships start at $ 20/month from there .
Cash-strapped but still in need of building your skillset ?
Some major libraries subscribe to Lynda.com , so check the website for your local branch before you sign up .
Need to stay active ?
Many gyms and yoga studios @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have pivoted to online-only courses to keep their students mentally and physically well while they ’ re not allowed to go into studios .
If you have a local studio you can support , check their website first !
Small businesses need our support more than ever right now as it ’ s unclear when they can reopen .
If you ’ re new to yoga or don ’ t have a local studio to work with , don ’ t worry—there are still options for you .
Core Power Yoga , which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ made a handful of classes available for free on their website , and they ’ re also live-streaming free classes several times a day on YouTube .
Gaia also offers yoga and meditation classes on-demand for $ 12 or less per month .

Kassondra Cloos on The Inventory, shared by Gabe Carey to The Root

If you find yourself with more time on your hands than you usually have thanks to never-ending stay-at-home orders, this can be a good opportunity to learn how to slow down, to enjoy a new hobby, or learn a new skill.
Not sure where to start? There are tons of online classes out there for pretty much everything you can think of, plus many gyms and yoga studios and the like have temporarily migrated all their classes to the web. Here are just options to keep you mentally (and/or physically) in shape while social distancing.
Advertisement
Coursera offers online courses in a wide variety of topics relating to business, language, math, health sciences, web development, and more. They work in partnership with accredited universities and big-name companies, like IBM, Johns Hopkins University, and NYU, and offer certificate and masters programs in addition to courses to get your feet wet in a new topic that interests you.
In addition to learning about algorithms, financial markets, nutrition, and entrepreneurship, you can also take classes like a Google-developed certificate program that will get you ready for an entry-level job in IT.
Advertisement Advertisement
Want to learn how to be a funnier writer, become a pro at makeup, or be an investigative journalist?
Celebrities and best-selling authors, journalists, politicians, successful entrepreneurs, and musicians all teach courses on MasterClass, which you can access for $180 per year. You can learn about entrepreneurship from Sara Blakely, who became the world’s youngest self-made billionaire after launching Spanx, humor writing from bestseller David Sedaris, creative writing from Margaret Atwood, author of The Handmaid’s Tale, and production and beatmaking from Timbaland, among dozens of other courses.
Advertisement
Outdoorsy and super-active people have an extra hard time being told to stay inside at all costs. AIM Adventure U—run by the same company that owns magazines like Backpacker, Climbing, SKI, and Yoga Journal—offers online courses to help you smash your outdoor goals while training inside your own home, like yoga for skiers. They also offer classes to help you strengthen your body to defend against potential injury, learn to tie knots, learn how to identify and gather non-toxic plants out on the trail, and repair your own gear. Many of the classes cost $100 or less.
Advertisement
The best way to learn a new language is simple: practice. Practice even if you think you sound stupid, even if you know you’re making tons of mistakes, and even when it’s hard and exhausting.
If you’ve found yourself with a few spare hours to kill every day, start a new language with Rosetta Stone. They offer monthly subscriptions as well as a lifetime subscription to all the language classes they offer for $199 total. Languages include Spanish, Arabic, Japanese, Portuguese, Swedish, Mandarin, Hebrew, and many more. You can either start from zero or, if you have some foundation in a language, start in a place that’s more aligned with your level.
Want to do some more passive language-learning when your brain needs a break from active exercises? I’ve found that watching Spanish Netflix shows from Spain and Mexico has vastly improved my language comprehension and vocabulary. Over the past two years, I’ve made a concerted effort to watch shows in Spanish with Spanish subtitles, rewinding when I miss a detail and taking the time to translate words I don’t know. Now I live in Mexico City and so I practice constantly as part of my daily life, and I have no doubt that consuming Spanish media exponentially improved my comprehension in between trips to Latin America.
Advertisement
Lynda.com, now part of LinkedIn, offers access to thousands of online courses to teach you everything from photography basics to advanced photoshop skills, graphic design, the basic tenets of starting a freelance business of any kind, and several different coding languages.
Advertisement
Lynda offers a free one-month trial to anyone who wants to give it a shot, then memberships start at $20/month from there. Cash-strapped but still in need of building your skillset? Some major libraries subscribe to Lynda.com, so check the website for your local branch before you sign up.
Where to Find Yoga Classes
Advertisement
Need to stay active? Many gyms and yoga studios, as well as individual instructors, have pivoted to online-only courses to keep their students mentally and physically well while they’re not allowed to go into studios. If you have a local studio you can support, check their website first! Small businesses need our support more than ever right now as it’s unclear when they can reopen.
If you’re new to yoga or don’t have a local studio to work with, don’t worry—there are still options for you. Core Power Yoga, which has studios across the country, has made a handful of classes available for free on their website, and they’re also live-streaming free classes several times a day on YouTube. Gaia also offers yoga and meditation classes on-demand for $12 or less per month.
Advertisement


theroot--2020-04-27--Rapper Scarface Reveals He Is on Dialysis as a Result of COVID-19 Diagnosis

Rapper Scarface of the Houston rap group Geto Boys was one of several musicians who contracted the coronavirus in March .
He broke the news in a conversation with fellow Geto Boy Willie D via YouTube , where he said he felt like he was going to die .
Now , Scarface is letting fans know that the illness has become even more serious for him , as he is now on dialysis as a result of COVID-19 .
“ I fought COVID double bilateral pneumonia—both lungs—and kidney failure in my house , ” he told Willie D in a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ went back to the hospital .
So , when all went back to shit again , I went back to the hospital .
I just got out of the hospital Monday ( April 20 ) .
” Scarface said that prior to contracting the coronavirus , he had no kidney issues .
Now , he has to change his entire diet and lifestyle .
He does dialysis four days a week , for three hours a day .
( “ That ’ s taking all my blood out , cleaning it and putting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he explains . )
“ I could not go to the hospital with COVID because I didn ’ t want them to put me on a ventilator , ” he continued .
“ Everybody they ’ re putting on ventilators is fuckin ’ dying , bro .
You know ?
So , I don ’ t think there ’ s any way that you can treat the COVID .
So , I would just be in the hospital on a fuckin ’ ventilator and I would ’ ve rather died at home.
” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the rapper said he couldn ’ t keep food down , couldn ’ t sleep but couldn ’ t stay awake , and couldn ’ t breathe .
While he ’ s working to ease his discomfort , he ’ s thankful to be alive right now .
“ Hanging on that string of death makes you really appreciate life , ” he said .
“ I was inches away from death and if you let the doctors tell it , they don ’ t know how I survived.
” Prayers up @ @ @ @ @ @

Rapper Scarface of the Houston rap group Geto Boys was one of several musicians who contracted the coronavirus in March. He broke the news in a conversation with fellow Geto Boy Willie D via YouTube, where he said he felt like he was going to die.
Now, Scarface is letting fans know that the illness has become even more serious for him, as he is now on dialysis as a result of COVID-19.
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“I fought COVID double bilateral pneumonia—both lungs—and kidney failure in my house,” he told Willie D in a Zoom interview last week. “I went back to the hospital. So, when all went back to shit again, I went back to the hospital. I just got out of the hospital Monday (April 20).”
Scarface said that prior to contracting the coronavirus, he had no kidney issues. Now, he has to change his entire diet and lifestyle. He does dialysis four days a week, for three hours a day. (“That’s taking all my blood out, cleaning it and putting it back in my body,” he explains.)
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“I could not go to the hospital with COVID because I didn’t want them to put me on a ventilator,” he continued. “Everybody they’re putting on ventilators is fuckin’ dying, bro. You know? So, I don’t think there’s any way that you can treat the COVID. So, I would just be in the hospital on a fuckin’ ventilator and I would’ve rather died at home.”
As for the symptoms that he experienced, the rapper said he couldn’t keep food down, couldn’t sleep but couldn’t stay awake, and couldn’t breathe. While he’s working to ease his discomfort, he’s thankful to be alive right now.
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“Hanging on that string of death makes you really appreciate life,” he said. “I was inches away from death and if you let the doctors tell it, they don’t know how I survived.”
Prayers up and well wishes to him.


theroot--2020-04-28--Oprah Winfrey Will Present the Class of 2020 Commencement Address, Thanks to Facebook and Instagram

If 2020 was a student and I had to sign their yearbook , I would put “ Girl , you ’ re the worst .
Don ’ t K.I.T .
!
” As we weather the mis adventures of the Mango Misfit in charge , many have taken to social media to ask former President Barack Obama to come save us .
As we navigate the unprecedented and unpredictable chartered waters known as the coronavirus pandemic , that desire has not abated .
Most recently , Obama was called upon to save the now-grave upcoming graduation season by volunteering as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ entire Class of 2020 , who will not be joining together for a traditional ceremony due to social distancing .
No official word yet from Obama ’ s team , but there is another Big O who has decided to step in and volunteer as tribute—none other than Oprah Winfrey !
Facebook has announced that Oprah will be presenting the commencement address for # Graduation2020 : Facebook and Instagram Celebrate the Class of 2020 .
Other notable celebrities who will join Oprah by giving words of wisdom to graduating high school and college @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Biles , Awkwafina and Jennifer Garner .
Plus , Miley Cyrus will be giving a live performance of her song , “ The Climb.
” Look , we all know teens and 20-somethings can be dramatic .
But throw in all those hormones and developmental shenanigans with a dash of traumatic pandemic and you have a recipe for implosion .
So , yes , it is quite a bummer to have to miss out on something you ’ ve been looking forward to all year ( hell , for four or more years @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in your bedroom after you move your tassel to the left doesn ’ t quite slap ( or give “ pomp and circumstance ” ) the same way it does with hundreds or thousands of your peers .
Though this won ’ t be the same as in-person activities , the social media platforms are trying to make it as authentic as possible .
You know how there are events leading up to graduation , such as prom or senior luncheons ?
Well , FB and IG will be hosting a week of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Per the press release provided to The Root : On Monday , May 11 , @ instagram will kick off daily programming that spotlights iconic senior experiences - from senior superlatives to portrait showcases to senior skip day .
Instagram will also roll out new in-app creative tools and features including a graduation countdown sticker , celebratory sticker pack , new AR effects , and a custom hashtag page for # Graduation2020 .
Facebook and Instagram Stories will launch a Graduation theme for Music Stickers – a list of grad-related songs making @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the graduation moments people share to their stories .
Plus , for graduates and their schools , teachers , friends , and family , the Facebook App will provide resources to help people host their own virtual graduation ceremonies and parties - including a virtual graduation hub , custom filters , family and friends celebrations enabled by Rooms , and more .
# Graduation2020 : Facebook and Instagram Celebrate the Class of 2020 will broadcast on Facebook Watch via facebook.com/facebookapp on Friday , May 15 .
Subsequent individual segments will broadcast via @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as well as various contributors ’ social media accounts .
Congrats to the Class of 2020 !

If 2020 was a student and I had to sign their yearbook, I would put “Girl, you’re the worst. Don’t K.I.T.!”
As we weather the misadventures of the Mango Misfit in charge, many have taken to social media to ask former President Barack Obama to come save us. As we navigate the unprecedented and unpredictable chartered waters known as the coronavirus pandemic, that desire has not abated. Most recently, Obama was called upon to save the now-grave upcoming graduation season by volunteering as the official virtual commencement speaker for the entire Class of 2020, who will not be joining together for a traditional ceremony due to social distancing.
Advertisement
No official word yet from Obama’s team, but there is another Big O who has decided to step in and volunteer as tribute—none other than Oprah Winfrey!
Advertisement Advertisement
Facebook has announced that Oprah will be presenting the commencement address for #Graduation2020: Facebook and Instagram Celebrate the Class of 2020. Other notable celebrities who will join Oprah by giving words of wisdom to graduating high school and college seniors are Lil Nas X, Simone Biles, Awkwafina and Jennifer Garner. Plus, Miley Cyrus will be giving a live performance of her song, “The Climb.”
Look, we all know teens and 20-somethings can be dramatic. But throw in all those hormones and developmental shenanigans with a dash of traumatic pandemic and you have a recipe for implosion. So, yes, it is quite a bummer to have to miss out on something you’ve been looking forward to all year (hell, for four or more years). Tossing up the mortarboard alone in your bedroom after you move your tassel to the left doesn’t quite slap (or give “pomp and circumstance”) the same way it does with hundreds or thousands of your peers.
Advertisement
Though this won’t be the same as in-person activities, the social media platforms are trying to make it as authentic as possible. You know how there are events leading up to graduation, such as prom or senior luncheons? Well, FB and IG will be hosting a week of activities leading up to the big day. Per the press release provided to The Root:
On Monday, May 11, @instagram will kick off daily programming that spotlights iconic senior experiences - from senior superlatives to portrait showcases to senior skip day. Instagram will also roll out new in-app creative tools and features including a graduation countdown sticker, celebratory sticker pack, new AR effects, and a custom hashtag page for #Graduation2020. Facebook and Instagram Stories will launch a Graduation theme for Music Stickers – a list of grad-related songs making it easy to find the perfect soundtrack for the graduation moments people share to their stories. Plus, for graduates and their schools, teachers, friends, and family, the Facebook App will provide resources to help people host their own virtual graduation ceremonies and parties - including a virtual graduation hub, custom filters, family and friends celebrations enabled by Rooms, and more.
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#Graduation2020: Facebook and Instagram Celebrate the Class of 2020 will broadcast on Facebook Watch via facebook.com/facebookapp on Friday, May 15. Subsequent individual segments will broadcast via the @instagram account on Instagram, as well as various contributors’ social media accounts.
Congrats to the Class of 2020!


theroot--2020-04-29--Baltimore Ordered to Pay Settlements for Two Victims of the City’s Police Misconduct Scandal

Maryland ’ s highest court ruled unanimously Friday that the city of Baltimore must pay for two settlements relating to the Gun Trace Task Force police corruption scandal in which several Baltimore officers were convicted of crimes ranging from racketeering to planting evidence .
The New York Times reports that city officials argued Baltimore should not have to pay for two separate $ 32,000 settlements that the city reached with Ivan Potts and William James , who accused officers of planting guns on them in order to justify their arrests .
Maryland ’ s Court of Appeals rejected the argument @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Gun Trace Task Force acted on their own , the city shouldn ’ t be held responsible for their actions .
The court ruled that because the scandal had gone on for so long and was so widespread , it ’ s unreasonable to say that the Baltimore Police Department didn ’ t know about the corruption of its police officers and that the city shouldn ’ t be held accountable .
According to WMAR- 2 , the judges in the case made it clear that their ruling only applied to these @ @ @ @ @ @ @ blanket judgment for any and all cases related to the scandal .
“ Our conclusions in Potts and James should not be read to suggest that all former members of the Department ’ s Gun Trace Task Force acted within the scope of employment in all instances .
We are not issuing a blanket ruling for all cases involving alleged misconduct by former members of the Department ’ s Gun Trace Task Force , ” their statement read .

Maryland’s highest court ruled unanimously Friday that the city of Baltimore must pay for two settlements relating to the Gun Trace Task Force police corruption scandal in which several Baltimore officers were convicted of crimes ranging from racketeering to planting evidence.
The New York Times reports that city officials argued Baltimore should not have to pay for two separate $32,000 settlements that the city reached with Ivan Potts and William James, who accused officers of planting guns on them in order to justify their arrests.
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Maryland’s Court of Appeals rejected the argument that because the rogue police officers of the Gun Trace Task Force acted on their own, the city shouldn’t be held responsible for their actions. The court ruled that because the scandal had gone on for so long and was so widespread, it’s unreasonable to say that the Baltimore Police Department didn’t know about the corruption of its police officers and that the city shouldn’t be held accountable.
According to WMAR- 2, the judges in the case made it clear that their ruling only applied to these two cases and isn’t a blanket judgment for any and all cases related to the scandal.
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“Our conclusions in Potts and James should not be read to suggest that all former members of the Department’s Gun Trace Task Force acted within the scope of employment in all instances. We are not issuing a blanket ruling for all cases involving alleged misconduct by former members of the Department’s Gun Trace Task Force,” their statement read.


theroot--2020-04-28--Move Over Baking Soda, There’s Something Better For Fridge Smells

I feel so worried about so many things right now , but very specifically , I feel very worried about the state of your refrigerators .
I ’ m also kind of excited about the state of your refrigerators because , while I hate the reason it ’ s happening and the effect it ’ s having on the food service industry , I think that cooking more of our own meals at home is a good thing .
The same goes for getting better at grocery shopping ( yup , it ’ s a skill ! )
, figuring @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and freezer , and being more mindful about food waste .
But with all that at-home cooking comes a new set of problems , some of which we ’ ve already taken on in this space .
O ne thing I haven ’ t told you about is this one miracle product for keeping odors in the refrigerator at bay .
Nope !
It ’ s not baking soda !
Funny thing about baking soda , actually ... it ’ s great at a lot of things .
You can use it to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a shine !
It ’ s a fantastic leavener for beer bread !
— but it ’ s not actually all that great at odor elimination .
I could go into all the science behind why baking soda isn ’ t that great at odor elimination but also I can hear you out there like , “ Oh my God , Jolie , tell us what this miracle product is !
The suspense is killing us !
” So right , right here it comes : The miracle product is activated charcoal .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ about activated charcoal : The first is that it goes by a few aliases .
Why that is , I do not know , but in my mind , it has something to do with activated charcoal having a shady criminal past .
ANYway !
The aliases are active charcoal , activated carbon , and active carbon .
Now you know that those are all the same thing .
The other thing to know about activated charcoal is that it comes in a few formats .
The most common one is sachets of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ perfect for stashing in closets , drawers , laundry hampers , gym bags , cars , and , of course , the refrigerator to eliminate smells as they happen .
Active charcoal can also be found in brick form ; the main advantage the bricks have over the sachets is that if they get wet they won ’ t turn into a soggy , sodden mess .
Therefore , they ’ re probably a better choice for the fridge than sachets — though both are fine , one is just finer than the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ activated charcoal and decant it into bowls or make your own sachets with it .
The advantage of this is mostly in cost savings , though it is also nice to have the option to use it in more than one way .
Another good thing to know about loose activated charcoal is that its efficacy lasts for a long , long time AND it can be “ recharged ” by placing it in sunlight when it starts to lose its odor-absorbing abilities .
And finally , activated charcoal is a feature you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ air purifiers/smoke eaters — it ’ s safer than ozone and more effective at eliminating smells than circulation and filtration alone .
Before we wrap this up , a reader mentioned this air purifier in the comments of last week ’ s column about air fresheners that actually work , and so I pass it along to you should you still be in the market for such a unit :

Jolie Kerr on The Inventory, shared by Gabe Carey to The Root

I feel so worried about so many things right now, but very specifically, I feel very worried about the state of your refrigerators.
I’m also kind of excited about the state of your refrigerators because, while I hate the reason it’s happening and the effect it’s having on the food service industry, I think that cooking more of our own meals at home is a good thing. The same goes for getting better at grocery shopping (yup, it’s a skill!), figuring out how to keep a well-stocked pantry and freezer, and being more mindful about food waste.
But with all that at-home cooking comes a new set of problems, some of which we’ve already taken on in this space.
Advertisement
One thing I haven’t told you about is this one miracle product for keeping odors in the refrigerator at bay. Nope! It’s not baking soda! Funny thing about baking soda, actually ... it’s great at a lot of things. You can use it to rage clean your pots and pans to a shine! It’s a fantastic leavener for beer bread! — but it’s not actually all that great at odor elimination.
Advertisement Advertisement
RECOMMENDED: Rage Cleaning Over the weekend, I caught up with a friend who said she felt like she was forgetting what it is… Read more
I could go into all the science behind why baking soda isn’t that great at odor elimination but also I can hear you out there like, “Oh my God, Jolie, tell us what this miracle product is! The suspense is killing us!”
Advertisement
So right, right here it comes: The miracle product is activated charcoal.
Here are a few things to know about activated charcoal: The first is that it goes by a few aliases. Why that is, I do not know, but in my mind, it has something to do with activated charcoal having a shady criminal past. ANYway! The aliases are active charcoal, activated carbon, and active carbon. Now you know that those are all the same thing.
The other thing to know about activated charcoal is that it comes in a few formats. The most common one is sachets of bagged up loose charcoal, which are perfect for stashing in closets, drawers, laundry hampers, gym bags, cars, and, of course, the refrigerator to eliminate smells as they happen.
Advertisement
Advertisement
Active charcoal can also be found in brick form; the main advantage the bricks have over the sachets is that if they get wet they won’t turn into a soggy, sodden mess. Therefore, they’re probably a better choice for the fridge than sachets — though both are fine, one is just finer than the other.
Advertisement
Advertisement
You can also buy loose activated charcoal and decant it into bowls or make your own sachets with it. The advantage of this is mostly in cost savings, though it is also nice to have the option to use it in more than one way.
Another good thing to know about loose activated charcoal is that its efficacy lasts for a long, long time AND it can be “recharged” by placing it in sunlight when it starts to lose its odor-absorbing abilities.
Advertisement
Advertisement
And finally, activated charcoal is a feature you’ll want to look for in air purifiers/smoke eaters — it’s safer than ozone and more effective at eliminating smells than circulation and filtration alone.
Before we wrap this up, a reader mentioned this air purifier in the comments of last week’s column about air fresheners that actually work, and so I pass it along to you should you still be in the market for such a unit:


theroot--2020-04-28--Offset Schedules Facebook Live Concert to Benefit Atlanta Food Bank

One of the trends that has emerged over the course of the current pandemic is artists performing virtual concerts through Instagram , Facebook and *checks notes* Teddy Riley Live.com .
Now , Cardi B ’ s husband Offset is getting into the mix .
AJC reports that on Wednesday , Offset will host a virtual concert on Facebook Live to raise money for the Atlanta Community Food Bank .
The concert is being called “ Offset and Friends ” and will feature performances from Young Thug , Rich the Kid and Saint Jhn .
The concert will be live-streamed on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to 9 p.m EST .
Viewers will be able to make donations using the donate button on the stream .
According to a press release , Offset has already donated 200,000 meals to the organization .
“ As someone raised in metro Atlanta , this event is the perfect opportunity for me to give back to the community that has supported me throughout my childhood and my career , ” Offset said in the statement .
“ The need for meals has more than doubled since the start of the COVID-19 outbreak , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ event will be instrumental in our work to provide that relief , ” said Sarah Fonder-Kristy , chief development officer for the Atlanta Community Food Bank .
Offset initially gained recognition as a member of the rap group Migos .
He released the collaborative project “ Without Warning ” with Metro Boomin in 2017 and last year dropped his first solo album “ Father of 4.
” His song “ Clout ” featuring his wife , Cardi B , earned him a Grammy nomination this year for Best Rap Performance .

One of the trends that has emerged over the course of the current pandemic is artists performing virtual concerts through Instagram, Facebook and *checks notes* Teddy Riley Live.com. Now, Cardi B’s husband Offset is getting into the mix.
AJC reports that on Wednesday, Offset will host a virtual concert on Facebook Live to raise money for the Atlanta Community Food Bank. The concert is being called “Offset and Friends” and will feature performances from Young Thug, Rich the Kid and Saint Jhn. The concert will be live-streamed on Offset’s Facebook page from 7 to 9 p.m EST. Viewers will be able to make donations using the donate button on the stream.
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According to a press release, Offset has already donated 200,000 meals to the organization. “As someone raised in metro Atlanta, this event is the perfect opportunity for me to give back to the community that has supported me throughout my childhood and my career,” Offset said in the statement.
“The need for meals has more than doubled since the start of the COVID-19 outbreak, and the donations we receive from this event will be instrumental in our work to provide that relief,” said Sarah Fonder-Kristy, chief development officer for the Atlanta Community Food Bank.
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Offset initially gained recognition as a member of the rap group Migos. He released the collaborative project “Without Warning” with Metro Boomin in 2017 and last year dropped his first solo album “Father of 4.” His song “Clout” featuring his wife, Cardi B, earned him a Grammy nomination this year for Best Rap Performance.


theroot--2020-04-28--How Old Were You When You First Realized That White Supremacy Is a Death Cult?

I was 37 .
I wish I could say this realization came sooner .
That ’ s an embarrassingly late @ @ @ @ @ used to think The Weeknd was a group , so I ’ m a slow @ @ @

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

I was 37. I wish I could say this realization came sooner. That’s an embarrassingly late age. But I also used to think The Weeknd was a group, so I’m a slow learner sometimes.


theroot--2020-04-28--Black Barbershops Face Divide Over Reopening During Pandemic

Businesses across the country have been reeling from closures due to the coronavirus pandemic .
Black barbershops , in particular , have been struggling to survive as their businesses have come to a standstill and their options for relief are increasingly limited .
CNN reports that as more states begin to ease restrictions , black barbershops have been divided on whether or not to reopen .
As COVID-19 has been shown to have a disproportionate effect on black communities , shop owners are torn between a desire to protect their communities and a need to earn a living .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ comprised of an estimated 3,000 members , with about 30 percent of them being black .
Damon Dorsey , president of the organization , told CNN Business he ’ s been in contact with owners who ’ ve expressed concerns about the spread of the disease but also need to “ get back to making money.
” In Georgia , where Republican Gov .
Brian Kemp authorized non-essential businesses to reopen last Friday , many black barbershops have already elected to do so .
54-year-old Craig Logan is the owner of Dre and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Ga. , and he estimates that about 85 percent of the shop owners he knows chose to reopen their doors .
He has decided to remain closed due in part to public pressure but also because he has both an aunt and a cousin who recovered from COVID-19 after being hospitalized .
“ I agree with the general sentiment , even though , like everybody else , I wanted to get back to work , ” Logan told CNN Business .
Black barbershops are also struggling to find relief through the Paycheck @ @ @ @ @ @ @ small businesses .
Dennis Mitchell , 54 , is the owner of Denny Moe ’ s Superstar Barbershop in Harlem .
He found out that since his employees are independent contractors , he didn ’ t have enough employees to qualify for the program .
This is a situation many shop owners are facing across the country .
Ivy Hopson , 49 , is the CEO and Founder of the Menz Barber Lounge in Milwaukee , Wis .
He applied for a loan through the program and never received a response .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you ’ re not a large enough priority for a major bank or financial institution , you ’ re going to be at a disadvantage getting your application in .
We ’ re going to see a certain level of disadvantage for black-owned business because of the nature of systemic racism that exists in the financing industry.
” Dorsey , the ABA president , told CNN Business .
The black barbershop is more than just a place to get a haircut .
It ’ s a community hub where folks gather to chop @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all the issues of the day .
It ’ s a very real possibility that a significant number of these institutions won ’ t be around in a post-pandemic world .
“ It ’ s kind of bone-chilling , ” Dennis Mitchell told CNN Business .
“ A lot of [ black business owners ] are not going to come back from this .
”

Joe Jurado on The Glow Up, shared by Joe Jurado to The Root

Businesses across the country have been reeling from closures due to the coronavirus pandemic. Black barbershops, in particular, have been struggling to survive as their businesses have come to a standstill and their options for relief are increasingly limited.
CNN reports that as more states begin to ease restrictions, black barbershops have been divided on whether or not to reopen. As COVID-19 has been shown to have a disproportionate effect on black communities, shop owners are torn between a desire to protect their communities and a need to earn a living. The American Barber Association is an advocacy group comprised of an estimated 3,000 members, with about 30 percent of them being black. Damon Dorsey, president of the organization, told CNN Business he’s been in contact with owners who’ve expressed concerns about the spread of the disease but also need to “get back to making money.”
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In Georgia, where Republican Gov. Brian Kemp authorized non-essential businesses to reopen last Friday, many black barbershops have already elected to do so. 54-year-old Craig Logan is the owner of Dre and Craig’s VIP Cuts in McDonough, Ga., and he estimates that about 85 percent of the shop owners he knows chose to reopen their doors. He has decided to remain closed due in part to public pressure but also because he has both an aunt and a cousin who recovered from COVID-19 after being hospitalized. “I agree with the general sentiment, even though, like everybody else, I wanted to get back to work,” Logan told CNN Business.
Black barbershops are also struggling to find relief through the Paycheck Protection Program that was intended to help small businesses. Dennis Mitchell, 54, is the owner of Denny Moe’s Superstar Barbershop in Harlem. He found out that since his employees are independent contractors, he didn’t have enough employees to qualify for the program. This is a situation many shop owners are facing across the country.
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Ivy Hopson, 49, is the CEO and Founder of the Menz Barber Lounge in Milwaukee, Wis. He applied for a loan through the program and never received a response. “If you’re a barber and you’re not a large enough priority for a major bank or financial institution, you’re going to be at a disadvantage getting your application in. We’re going to see a certain level of disadvantage for black-owned business because of the nature of systemic racism that exists in the financing industry.” Dorsey, the ABA president, told CNN Business.
The black barbershop is more than just a place to get a haircut. It’s a community hub where folks gather to chop it up and fire off takes on all the issues of the day. It’s a very real possibility that a significant number of these institutions won’t be around in a post-pandemic world.
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“It’s kind of bone-chilling,” Dennis Mitchell told CNN Business. “ A lot of [black business owners] are not going to come back from this.”


theroot--2020-04-28--NBA Draft Prospect Teshaun Hightower Arrested in Connection With a Georgia Murder

On April 19 , 22-year-old Teshaun Hightower declared for the NBA draft .
One week later , he found himself behind bars facing some very serious charges .
NBC News reports that Hightower was taken into custody in Henry County , Ga.. last Saturday in connection with the April 8 killing of Devante Long .
Hightower was arrested alongside his brother Jeffrey , Tyreek Farmer and three other men , who are all facing charges for weapons , murder and aggravated assault .
It ’ s alleged that after Farmer got into an altercation with Long earlier in the day @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and the four others to further confront him .
Hightower faces an additional charge for misdemeanor battery for allegedly shoving Long ’ s girlfriend .
According to a warrant acquired by the Atlanta Journal-Constitution , Long ’ s girlfriend alleges that Hightower was the one who shot Long .
“ ( The woman ) said Teshaun pulled a turquoise and black handgun out of his pocket .
( She ) ran into the apartment and hid behind the wall next to the door.
” The warrant states .
Hightower ’ s lawyer , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ brother Jeffrey was the actual gunman .
“ He ’ s innocent .
He didn ’ t shoot anybody , ” said Averick Walker , Teshaun Hightower ’ s attorney .
“ It ’ s sad that this detective sought to make him out to be a monster and he ’ s not .
When it ’ s all said and done , it will come out in the wash that the person who did fire the gun shot the gun to protect Teshaun .
“ Teshaun ’ s brother actually fired the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ victim came out of the house with a gun in his hand and turned his weapon toward Teshaun to shoot him .
That ’ s why the victim was shot himself.
” Hightower played guard for Tulane University in New Orleans .
He was born in Lithonia , Ga. , and played his first two seasons at the University of Georgia before transferring to Tulane during his junior year .
During the 2019-20 season , Hightower led the Green Wave in scoring , averaging 15.9 points and 4.6 rebounds .
He has been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the arrest .

On April 19, 22-year-old Teshaun Hightower declared for the NBA draft. One week later, he found himself behind bars facing some very serious charges.
NBC News reports that Hightower was taken into custody in Henry County, Ga.. last Saturday in connection with the April 8 killing of Devante Long. Hightower was arrested alongside his brother Jeffrey, Tyreek Farmer and three other men, who are all facing charges for weapons, murder and aggravated assault. It’s alleged that after Farmer got into an altercation with Long earlier in the day and reportedly enlisted the help of Hightower and the four others to further confront him. Hightower faces an additional charge for misdemeanor battery for allegedly shoving Long’s girlfriend.
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According to a warrant acquired by the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Long’s girlfriend alleges that Hightower was the one who shot Long. “(The woman) said Teshaun pulled a turquoise and black handgun out of his pocket. (She) ran into the apartment and hid behind the wall next to the door.” The warrant states. Hightower’s lawyer, Averick Walker, told ESPN that his brother Jeffrey was the actual gunman.
From ESPN:
“He’s innocent. He didn’t shoot anybody,” said Averick Walker, Teshaun Hightower’s attorney. “It’s sad that this detective sought to make him out to be a monster and he’s not. When it’s all said and done, it will come out in the wash that the person who did fire the gun shot the gun to protect Teshaun. “Teshaun’s brother actually fired the weapon and fired in self-defense. The victim came out of the house with a gun in his hand and turned his weapon toward Teshaun to shoot him. That’s why the victim was shot himself.”
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Hightower played guard for Tulane University in New Orleans. He was born in Lithonia, Ga., and played his first two seasons at the University of Georgia before transferring to Tulane during his junior year. During the 2019-20 season, Hightower led the Green Wave in scoring, averaging 15.9 points and 4.6 rebounds. He has been dropped from the team as a result of the arrest.