theroot--2020-11-11--Aukey's 1080p Webcam Comes Through for Work and School Zoom Calls for $27

If you ’ re still looking for a webcam for all that Zooming you ’ ve been forced into , @ @ @ @ @ .
It ’ s down to $ 50 on standard discount , and with promo @ @ @ @ @ plummets even further to $ 27 .
This webcam delivers up to 1080p resolution on @ @ @ @ @ with a 65-degree viewing angle , which isn ’ t terribly wide , but that @ @ @ @ @ those with background anxiety .
Plus , there ’ s a noise-busting microphone built-in if @ @ @ @ @ a separate one .
This deal was originally published on 9/9/2020 and updated with new @ @ @ @

Quentyn Kennemer on Kinja Deals, shared by Quentyn Kennemer to The Root

Aukey 1080p Webcam | $28 | Amazon | Clip coupon
If you’re looking for a better webcam for all of that Zooming you’ve been forced into, Aukey has one pretty cheap. The list price is $60, but between a standard discount and extra 30% savings when you clip the Amazon coupon, the final price lands at just $28.
This webcam delivers up to 1080p resolution on a 1/29" CMOS sensor with a 65-degree viewing angle, which isn’t terribly wide, but that may be a benefit for those with background anxiety. Plus, there’s a noise-busting microphone built-in if you don’t fancy a separate one.
This deal was originally published by Quentyn Kennemer on 09/09/2020 and updated by Andrew Hayward with new information on 02/02/2021.


theroot--2020-11-10--California School Board President Resigns After Wife’s Racist Tweets About Vice President-Elect Kama

California School Board President Resigns After Wife’s Racist Tweets About Vice President-Elect Kamala Harris

I really don ’ t understand white people , y ’ all .
Like , how are they out here marrying racists and then being all , “ Well , I don ’ t agree at all with what my partner said , but , you know ... ” Our latest example of spousal racism takes us to San Francisco , where a school board president resigned after his wife posted some racist-ass tweets about Vice President-elect Kamala Harris .
According to KTLA , Jon Venverloh has resigned from his position at Las Lomitas Elementary School District in Menlo Park @ @ @ @ @ @ @ series of racist tweets his wife , Mehridith Philips Venverloh , posted on Sunday .
In response to a question about Harris ’ qualifications to be vice president , Venverloh wrote “ all she needs to be qualified is a black pussy !
No brain needed !
” Venverloh doubled down on her comments , retweeting a post from Harris where the VP-elect said she “ hopes every girl watching tonight sees this is a country of possibilities.
” A screenshot of Venverloh ’ s now deleted reply reads , “ The possibilities @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their ways to the top !
!
!
What a powerful message !
!
!
Yay team Gaga !
!
!
” Allegedly , these weren ’ t the only fucked-up things Venverloh posted on Sunday , but given that she ’ s since deleted her Twitter profile , I can ’ t tell you what exactly those comments entailed .
I can tell you that she pissed off quite a few parents , with many tagging the Twitter accounts of Jon Venverloh and the Los Lomitas School District demanding the school board @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he disagrees with his wife ’ s “ reprehensible views , ” which , hard doubt , he ’ ll resign as her posts have made it so that his “ continued service would be a distraction from the work that needs to be done.
” Mehredith Venverloh issued an apology on Monday which leads us to a game of “ Guess !
The !
Excuse !
” Alright reader , what excuse do you think Mehredith Venverloh gave for her racist tweets ?
D ) Her posts were taken out of context @ @ @ @ @ @ @ !
The rest of you disappoint me ; do better dammit .
Venverloh revealed she ’ s a Trump supporter ( shocker ) and that her “ vulgar ” words were written “ in a moment of disappointment.
” She added she was on medication for a “ debilitating neurological disease ” and had lowered her dosage in the lead up to a scheduled hospitalization .
“ I believe that the change in medication reduced my judgment between right and wrong when I made the posts , ” she said .
How do @ @ @ @ @ @ @ medication ?
I ’ ve taken plenty of medication in my life ; I was even on Ritalin for most of my younger years , which does affect your brain chemistry .
While I ’ ve experienced irritability , drowsiness and discomfort as side effects , never once has a medicine made me be like “ You know what ?
Fuck the Chinese !
” So sure , the medication may have lowered her inhibitions , but the problem isn ’ t what may have encouraged her to say it , but the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it all .
Now her name is all over the internet and her man is out of job .
Correction , 11/11/20 , 8:51 a.m. : The headline on this post misidentified the city where the events took place .
It has been updated .

I really don’t understand white people, y’all. Like, how are they out here marrying racists and then being all, “Well, I don’t agree at all with what my partner said, but, you know...”
*points at white skin and shrugs*
Our latest example of spousal racism takes us to San Francisco, where a school board president resigned after his wife posted some racist-ass tweets about Vice President-elect Kamala Harris.
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According to KTLA, Jon Venverloh has resigned from his position at Las Lomitas Elementary School District in Menlo Park. This is mainly due to a series of racist tweets his wife, Mehridith Philips Venverloh, posted on Sunday. In response to a question about Harris’ qualifications to be vice president, Venverloh wrote “all she needs to be qualified is a black pussy! No brain needed!”
Yeahhh, I just gotta—
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Venverloh doubled down on her comments, retweeting a post from Harris where the VP-elect said she “hopes every girl watching tonight sees this is a country of possibilities.” A screenshot of Venverloh’s now deleted reply reads, “The possibilities are endless for little girls who whore their ways to the top!!! What a powerful message!!! Yay team Gaga!!!”
What a strange, sad woman.
Allegedly, these weren’t the only fucked-up things Venverloh posted on Sunday, but given that she’s since deleted her Twitter profile, I can’t tell you what exactly those comments entailed. I can tell you that she pissed off quite a few parents, with many tagging the Twitter accounts of Jon Venverloh and the Los Lomitas School District demanding the school board president resign.
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Venverloh said that while he disagrees with his wife’s “reprehensible views,” which, hard doubt, he’ll resign as her posts have made it so that his “continued service would be a distraction from the work that needs to be done.”
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Mehredith Venverloh issued an apology on Monday which leads us to a game of “Guess! The! Excuse!”
Alright reader, what excuse do you think Mehredith Venverloh gave for her racist tweets?
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A) Drugs and alcohol
B) She was hacked
c) Medication
D) Her posts were taken out of context
To all who guessed C, congrats! The rest of you disappoint me; do better dammit.
Venverloh revealed she’s a Trump supporter (shocker) and that her “vulgar” words were written “in a moment of disappointment.”
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She added she was on medication for a “debilitating neurological disease” and had lowered her dosage in the lead up to a scheduled hospitalization. “I believe that the change in medication reduced my judgment between right and wrong when I made the posts,” she said.
How do white people just keep finding this racist-ass medication? I’ve taken plenty of medication in my life; I was even on Ritalin for most of my younger years, which does affect your brain chemistry. While I’ve experienced irritability, drowsiness and discomfort as side effects, never once has a medicine made me be like “You know what? Fuck the Chinese!”
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So sure, the medication may have lowered her inhibitions, but the problem isn’t what may have encouraged her to say it, but the fact she felt the need to say it all. Now her name is all over the internet and her man is out of job.
Sucks to suck, I guess.
Correction, 11/11/20, 8:51 a.m.: The headline on this post misidentified the city where the events took place. It has been updated.


theroot--2020-11-11--AirPods, MacBooks, and iPads (Oh My!): Today’s Best Apple Deals

The best Apple deals and discounts of November 2020 are here .
The iPhone 12 is rolling out in four different versions , ranging from the one-hand-friendly iPhone 12 Mini all the way up to the super-sized iPhone 12 Pro Max .
All of them pack in 5G support and myriad other improvements , and you ’ ll pay a fair amount for any of ‘ em as the last models roll out in the coming days .
Looking for a bargain on another Apple device , such as AirPods , Apple Watches , MacBooks , iPads , and older @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
We ’ re always catching wind of hot Apple deals and now we ’ re keeping them all collected here in this roundup , which we ’ re updating regularly .
These are today ’ s best Apple deals .
Save $ 55 on Apple ’ s premium AirPods Pro right now at Amazon .
You get active noise canceling technology to block out the world , along with silicone tips to enhance fit and comfort and a case that you can pop on a wireless charger to top up .
If @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or just are ready for an upgrade , now ’ s the time to snag these stellar ‘ buds .
Apple has new Macs releasing this month using its own chips , which are said to deliver more speed with less power needed .
But if you ’ re looking for a cheaper MacBook Air that you can order right now , Amazon is slashing $ 150 off the price of the previous Intel-powered version .
It comes with a 10th-gen Intel Core i3 processor and 8GB RAM alongside , and has a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ storage .
This is a solid deal on an everyday laptop with modest power .
Note that the full savings isn ’ t shown until you reach checkout .
The new Apple Watch SE is the best option for most prospective buyers , carrying the most important core features of the pricier Apple Watch Series 6 with just a smidge less power and a $ 120 savings .
Right now , you can get the Apple Watch SE for even less at Amazon , where both the 40mm and 44mm sizes are marked @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is the cheapest as of this writing , with the black version priced at $ 260 - a $ 49 discount - while the 40mm size is $ 269 ( $ 10 off ) .
Check the color and size options as the discounts have come and gone between the various models .
Apple ’ s latest core iPad is already $ 30 off soon after release .
There ’ s no big redesign here : it looks the same as the last base iPad , but now it has a faster A12 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to an iPhone XS in capabilities .
And it still supports the Apple Pencil stylus , like before .
You can get the 32GB model in Silver or Gold for $ 299 right now , while the 128GB version is $ 34 off the list price at $ 395 in all three colors .
Amazon is already slicing up to $ 20 off the list price of the new Apple Watch Series 6 in certain colors for the 40mm size or the 4 4mm models .
These latest watches are a bit faster @ @ @ @ @ @ @ extra health functionality , such as a blood oxygen sensor .
And unlike the cheaper Apple Watch SE , they have the always-on display .
Apple ’ s standard current-model AirPods are marked down to $ 12 9 right now , a savings of $ 30 .
They don ’ t have the active noise cancellation or silicone tips of the AirPods Pro , but they deliver great solid and excellent convenience and can be recharged with the Lightning cable .
Or you can grab the version with a wirelessly-rechargeable case for $ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Save $ 120 off the active noise-canceling wireless Beats Solo Pro headphones right now at Amazon in a a couple of colors .
They pair easily with iOS devices thanks to Apple ’ s H1 chip and promise a stellar 22 hours of battery life on a full charge .
The red , light blue , and navy blue colors are still available as of this writing .
Apple ’ s MacBook laptops are popular , but if you want a big , beefy Mac with a hell of a screen , you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ iMac .
The all-in-one desktop has a huge 27-inch screen at a blistering 5K resolution , and pairs that with an Intel Core i5 chip and 256GB of storage .
Save $ 150 off the base model at Amazon right now .
It ’ s not a huge savings , but it is an uncommon one : right now you can save $ 60 off the price of Apple ’ s largest current-gen iPad , the iPad Pro 12.9 ” .
With a massive ProMotion screen , serious speed onboard , and even @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the most perk-packed tablet in Apple ’ s stable .
And if you want Apple ’ s pricey Magic Keyboard for this model , it ’ s also $ 20 off at Amazon .
If you ’ re on the hunt for a large , semi-recent iPhone that you can take to any network , this iPhone XR deal might be up your alley .
It has a sizable 6.1 ” screen , is available in a handful of eye-catching colors , and the A12 Bionic processor is still plenty speedy compared to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s more than $ 300 off the original new list price when you buy this certified renewed version from Amazon , which is unlocked .
The price varies slightly based on which color you choose .
Apple ’ s biggest current MacBook Pro model is a wallet-buster , as you might expect , but at least Amazon is slashing a couple hundred bucks off right now .
The 16 '' Silver base model is $ 200 off right now , snagging you a powerful notebook ideal for creative work via an Intel @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and a meaty 512GB of internal storage .
Part of that savings comes off at checkout , by the way .
J ump up to the Core i9 version with a 1TB SSD and you ’ ll save $ 300 off of its higher price point .

Andrew Hayward on Roundups, shared by Gabe Carey to The Root

Featured Deal: Apple Watch Series 7 (Green) | $339 | Amazon
The best Apple deals and discounts of the month are here.
If you’re an Apple fan, then you know that the company’s popular iPhones, iPads, MacBooks, Apple Watch, and AirPods don’t come cheap—and sales can be sporadic.
Luckily, we watch Apple bargains like a hawk here at Kinja Deals, and we’re always keeping an eye out for the best deals across all Apple devices. Scope out some great prices on AirPods Pro, iPad Pro, and M1 Macs below, and stay tuned: we’ll be updating this roundup regularly.
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Have you been just itching to get an Apple Watch Series 7, but the full price of $399 is a bridge too far? Well, lucky you, it’s on sale at Amazon right now for $339—that’s $60 off, or enough to pick up an Apple Watch accessory like a new sport loop band. This deal is only on the base GPS watch, and only the green one, but listen, if you’re on a budget and you haven’t invited an Apple Watch into your life yet, I can attest to it being one of the most useful pieces of tech on the market right now.
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If you’re one to work in one fixed location, the 2020 iMac is on sale for $150 off. The 21.5" all-in-one 1080p desktop computer and monitor has 8GB of memory and a 256GB SSD. As is standard, it comes with the Apple Magic Mouse which can scroll in all directions like a touchpad on top and is just a delight to use—especially for artists. That discount brings it down to $950.
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Sick of your phone dying on you when you’re out and about? Well if you’ve got an iPhone 12 or later, you can just slap a MagSafe battery pack onto the back of it. No cables dangling around to connect to a powerbank. This uses the wireless charger in the back of the phone and stays magnetically connected to it. The whole thing fits right in your pocket, just bit more snug. Normally goes for $99, but you can get it for 9% off right now.
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Discounts on Apple’s new MacBook Air model with the powerful M1 chip have been steadier lately, and right now you can save a strong $100 off the 512GB model in silver or space gray. The M1 chip makes the MacBook Air “extraordinary,” thanks to fantastic battery life and better performance than some much pricier Windows-based rivals. If you’re on the hunt for a speedy, reliable new laptop, jump on this bargain! For folks who don’t need that much storage, the 256GB version is also $100 off bringing it to just $899.
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The deluxe AirPods Max are the over-the-ear option from Apple which normally run for $549. Right now, Amazon is offering roughly $70 off for a selection of different colors. If you’re looking for a comfy, fashionable, great-sounding set of headphones to seamlessly work with your other Apple tech, now may be the time to jump on board.
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The latest Apple TV in 4K is discounted over at Amazon. Only by $10, but hey. If you were in the market for an Apple TV and haven’t pulled the trigger yet, you might as well save $10. Get the 32GB version for $169 or the 64GB version for $190. I will say, the Siri remote is excellent to use so you can avoid typing in the shows or movies you want to pull up with just the arrow buttons and on screen keyboard.
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If you’re an iPhone user with some cash to blow, skip the pretenders and even the lesser AirPods to go for something better. The AirPods Pro step the game up with rubber tips, active noise cancellation, better overall audio quality, and a wirelessly-chargeable case as standard. They’re a bit expensive normally, but right now you can get ‘em for $59 off the list price.
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Just looking for something simple? Apple’s standard 2nd gen model AirPods are also on sale at Amazon. You can snag yourself a pair for $50 off. These earbuds are rechargeable via the case and cable and produce quality sound. If you don’t need the latest and greatest, you can save quite a bit of dough going with this previous generation version.
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Apple released the latest set of Bluetooth wireless earbuds in its AirPods 3. With an original price point of $179, you would expect it to fall somewhere between their old AirPods 2 and the $249 AirPods Pro. Well, you’d be exactly right. The AirPods 3 are a step up from the 2, adding some of the features we saw come with the Pro like spatial audio support and water resistance. They also have a redesign aesthetically. The most notable absent feature from the Pro is the lack of active noise canceling. Right now Amazon has them for $10 off.


theroot--2020-11-12--Efforts to Make Voting Harder in Georgia’s Senate Runoff Surprisingly Rejected by State Leaders

The fate of the Senate is in the hands of Georgia voters , and state Republicans were hoping to bust out their tried-and-true tactics of just straight up not letting people vote .
Surprisingly , Georgia ’ s Republican governor and noted election thief has pushed back against those attempts .
AJC reports that Gov .
Brian Kemp released a joint statement on Tuesday , with Lt. Gov .
Geoff Duncan and House Speaker David Ralston , that shut down any notion of changing election rules in the lead-up to the state ’ s Jan. 5 runoff .
That election @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) square off against Jon Ossoff ( D ) and U.S. Sen. Kelly Loeffler ( R ) against Rev .
Raphael Warnock ( D ) and will determine which party controls of the Senate .
As of right now , the Republicans are on pace to claim 50 seats and if the Democrats win both races , it will result in a 50-50 tie with soon-to-be Vice President Kamala Harris as the deciding vote , which means the Dems would control the chamber .
If the Republicans win just one seat , then @ @ @ @ @ @ @ charge of the Senate and will have a major impact on President-elect Joe Biden ’ s incoming agenda .
“ Any changes to Georgia ’ s election laws made in a special session will not have any impact on an ongoing election and would only result in endless litigation , ” the three Republicans wrote .
“ We share the same concerns many Georgians have about the integrity of our elections .
Therefore , we will follow the coming audit and recount closely and will work together to keep Georgia ’ s elections @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The statement came as Republican legislators have called on Kemp to call a special legislative session to make residency requirements more restrictive .
State Rep. David Clark is among Republicans in the state pushing this move , as there is fear that a wave of out-of-state voters will move to the state and influence the elections .
Clark has said that tightening restrictions is necessary to stop newly arrived Georgians from “ interfering in our elections.
” Do you ever get the feeling that Republicans don ’ t quite understand the level of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ year ?
It ’ s already both hard and costly to move to a new state , even when everything is going gravy .
How many people do they really think can afford to move to an entirely new state in the middle of a pandemic that has killed thousands , and left millions unemployed , just to cast a damn ballot ?
That ’ s just not using your brain , b. Georgia ’ s election law already makes it a felony for people to move the state to vote with the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this a case of much ado about jack shit .
Should state legislators feel that strongly about the issue , they do have the power to call a special legislative session on their own .
That course of action is rather unlikely , though , as it requires a three-fifths majority vote and substantial assistance from state Democrats .
Anthony Kreis , a constitutional law professor at Georgia State University , told AJC that any attempt at changing election law at this point in the game would stand no chance in the courts @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , ” he told AJC .
“ Calls for the Georgia General Assembly to be convened in a special session for the purpose of altering absentee rules to suppress the vote are grotesquely un-democratic , an abuse of power and a constitutionally suspect form of racial discrimination.
” And that ’ s that on that .
So !
If you happened to move to Georgia in the last few months or intend to within the month , you have until Dec. 7 to register to vote with county officials .

The fate of the Senate is in the hands of Georgia voters, and state Republicans were hoping to bust out their tried-and-true tactics of just straight up not letting people vote. Surprisingly, Georgia’s Republican governor and noted election thief has pushed back against those attempts.
AJC reports that Gov. Brian Kemp released a joint statement on Tuesday, with Lt. Gov. Geoff Duncan and House Speaker David Ralston, that shut down any notion of changing election rules in the lead-up to the state’s Jan. 5 runoff. That election will see Sen. David Perdue (R) square off against Jon Ossoff (D) and U.S. Sen. Kelly Loeffler (R) against Rev. Raphael Warnock (D) and will determine which party controls of the Senate.
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As of right now, the Republicans are on pace to claim 50 seats and if the Democrats win both races, it will result in a 50-50 tie with soon-to-be Vice President Kamala Harris as the deciding vote, which means the Dems would control the chamber. If the Republicans win just one seat, then Majority Leader Mitch McConnell will remain in charge of the Senate and will have a major impact on President-elect Joe Biden’s incoming agenda.
“Any changes to Georgia’s election laws made in a special session will not have any impact on an ongoing election and would only result in endless litigation,” the three Republicans wrote. “We share the same concerns many Georgians have about the integrity of our elections. Therefore, we will follow the coming audit and recount closely and will work together to keep Georgia’s elections safe, accessible, and fair.”
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The statement came as Republican legislators have called on Kemp to call a special legislative session to make residency requirements more restrictive. State Rep. David Clark is among Republicans in the state pushing this move, as there is fear that a wave of out-of-state voters will move to the state and influence the elections. Clark has said that tightening restrictions is necessary to stop newly arrived Georgians from “interfering in our elections.”
Do you ever get the feeling that Republicans don’t quite understand the level of destruction that’s been wrought this year?
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It’s already both hard and costly to move to a new state, even when everything is going gravy. How many people do they really think can afford to move to an entirely new state in the middle of a pandemic that has killed thousands, and left millions unemployed, just to cast a damn ballot?
That’s just not using your brain, b.
Georgia’s election law already makes it a felony for people to move the state to vote with the intention of quickly leaving, further making this a case of much ado about jack shit.
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Should state legislators feel that strongly about the issue, they do have the power to call a special legislative session on their own. That course of action is rather unlikely, though, as it requires a three-fifths majority vote and substantial assistance from state Democrats.
Anthony Kreis, a constitutional law professor at Georgia State University, told AJC that any attempt at changing election law at this point in the game would stand no chance in the courts.
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“Let’s be clear,” he told AJC. “Calls for the Georgia General Assembly to be convened in a special session for the purpose of altering absentee rules to suppress the vote are grotesquely un-democratic, an abuse of power and a constitutionally suspect form of racial discrimination.”
And that’s that on that. So! If you happened to move to Georgia in the last few months or intend to within the month, you have until Dec. 7 to register to vote with county officials.


theroot--2020-11-11--What Is Singles' Day? Apparently, the Single Best Day to Catch Pre-Black Friday Beauty Deals. So, Wh

What Is Singles' Day? Apparently, the Single Best Day to Catch Pre-Black Friday Beauty Deals. So, What's Good?

We live in strange times , y ’ all—an era of fabricated electoral disputes , a very real pandemic , and seemingly a holiday for every event and demographic imaginable .
For instance , here in the United States , November 11 is commonly observed as Veterans Day .
But in China , the “ Double 11 '' date is known as Singles ’ Day—and for those of you wondering , it ’ s exactly what it sounds like : “ a Chinese unofficial holiday and shopping season that celebrates people who are not in relationships.
” Basically , if @ @ @ @ @ @ @ your way through a Valentine ’ s or Sweetheart ’ s Day , this is the day for all you self-lovers out there—and what ’ s more self-loving than upping your beauty routine ?
( Okay , I can think of one thing more self-loving—but didn ’ t find any major discounts at those online purveyors , so beauty deals , it is ! )
While I usually reserve this type of promotional content for our Big Beauty Tuesdays , since we ’ re now transitioning into the holiday season , any day @ @ @ @ @ @ @ good sale .
Besides , as both an unmarried person and one who loves pretty much any excuse to shop , I happily jumped on this bandwagon .
We may not be able to cuddle up with a loved one tonight , but our credit cards might be a worthy substitute—so let ’ s get into it !
Yo , for real ?
If you ’ ve ever contemplated spending $ 68 for Pat McGrath ’ s Skin Fetish : Sublime Perfection Foundation ( because it really does live up to the hype @ @ @ @ @ @ @ get thyself over to the makeup maven ’ s online marketplace .
“ Mother ” has discounted all 36 shades of the serum-enriched formula 30 percent for Singles ’ Day ( bringing it to a still pricey but far more reasonable $ 47.60 ) , and to complete your flawless skin fantasy , head over to her “ Xclusive Offers ” section to cop the Sublime Perfection Primer ( now discounted to $ 23 ) and a gang of other goodies for up to 50 percent off .
But wait , there ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the budget to spend $ 85 or more , Pat ’ s throwing in a free Blitztrance lipstick ( full price : $ 38 ) in one of three color choices ( including an ill-ass copper-flecked red called “ Blood Rush ” ) .
What do we recommend adding to your cart ?
The most coveted beauty gift of this holiday season is indisputably McGrath ’ s Mthrshp Mega : Celestial Divinity Palette ( $ 78 ) , which , while not currently on sale , has also turned out to be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to McGrath ’ s arsenal , offering 18 gorgeously curated luxury eyeshadows in almost the same size pans as her well-known 10-color palettes ( $ 125 ) .
Do the math—and don ’ t ever sleep on Mother .
For those who prefer a more “ Basic Beat , ” here ’ s a very budget-friendly new favorite for you : Fashion Nova launched their first makeup line , Maven Beauty , earlier this fall , and while they may offer over 2000 styles of jeans ( no , seriously ) , their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and surprisingly conservative yet versatile collection of pro-level eye makeup , lipsticks , highlighters and brushes , fantastically packaged and nearly foolproof for makeup aficionados and apprentices alike .
The brand , which has launched fashion collabs with Cardi B and is soon to add Megan Thee Stallion to the mix , graciously sent over product for TGU to sample .
Much to my delight , the color payoff is good , the textures on point , and the shades flattering to most tones ( though I could ’ ve used one more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ debuted—but again , this is the first launch , and the brand has already announced more coming soon ) .
In fact , the only stumbling block I hit was with Maven ’ s dial-up liquid eyeliner : love the clever packaging , but dialed just a tad too much—and ended up with an eyeliner explosion ( however , I can fully confirm the formula is waterproof and doesn ’ t budge ) .
So , don ’ t be like me ; try the line , but be patient with that eyeliner @ @ @ @ @ @ @ like the present : the already low-priced line ( along with the entire site ) is 40 percent off with the code 19MILL .
At those prices , I ’ m going to give that liner one more go .
If you ’ re already a Sephora Beauty Insider , you likely took advantage of last weekend ’ s Insider Days to do some early holiday shopping .
But if not , never fear : the holidays are the most wonderful time of the year at Sephora—it ’ s when their value sets @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the big bonuses of beauty and fashion journalism is getting to shop these deals before anyone else , so of course , I did—and therefore have a few recommendations for you .
Sephora got our attention this spring when they became the first retailer to join the 15 Percent Pledge , promising to allocate at least 15 percent of their future offerings to Black-owned beauty brands .
They bolstered that effort by deciding to center BIPOC brands in this year ’ s class of its Accelerate Program , which helps independent beauty @ @ @ @ @ @ @ likes of Sephora .
Accelerate alum , Bread Beauty Supply , is among the newest of the eight Black-owned brands already carried by Sephora ; for the holidays , I highly recommend copping Bread ’ s four-piece Wash-Day Essentials Kit for Curly & Textured Hair ( $ 58 ; value : $ 72 ) , which includes a full-sized bottle of their amazing-smelling and performing Everyday Gloss Hair Oil ( $ 24 ) along with their excellent hair wash , mask and scrunchie .
Another major Black haircare brand makes a sweet comeback @ @ @ @ @ @ @ re-releases its Don ’ t Despair , Repair !
Honey Moisture Deep Conditioning Mask ( $ 36 ; Value : $ 54 ) .
This honey bear-themed set is “ infused with organic honey to restore essential hydration and strength to dry , damaged hair ” and also includes travel sizes of Briogeo ’ s famed Don ’ t Despair , Repair !
Deep Conditioning Mask and protein-free Be Gentle , Be Kind Avocado + Kiwi Mega Moisture Superfood Mask .
This luxury haircare doesn ’ t typically come cheap , so I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not Black-owned , I also have to give a shout to Sephora ’ s in-house collection , as the holidays are when they really show out .
The annual palette is a treat I ’ ve always looked forward to , and this year ’ s Wild Wishes Multi-Palette Blockbuster ( $ 36 ; value : $ 179 ) doesn ’ t disappoint , boasting 86 highly pigmented shades for eyes , face and lips—a perfect and pricepoint-friendly starter set for the makeup-crazy teenager on your list ( adults who love to experiment @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) .
And since this holiday season will be synonymous with mask-wearing , several other sets are perfect for stocking stuffing this year ( even if the stocking is your own ) : Sephora ’ s Face Mask Magic Kit ( $ 25 ; value $ 34 ) includes six enzyme-rich formulas to help combat “ maskne ; for those inevitably chapped lips , Laneige ’ s Dream & Wonder Gift Set of Lip Sleeping Masks ( $ 29 ) is already keeping me kissable ( should “ single ” not turn out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ And since it ’ s all about the eyes this year , Sephora Favorites Lashstash Mascara Set is a steal ( $ 48 ; value : $ 172 ) , since it includes a full-sized Pat McGrath Labs Fetishize mascara , among other great picks in the mix .
Want more ?
( Greedy . )
Sephora ’ s Beauty Director Myiesha Sewell shared a few of her faves , so listen up ( since we all know Myieshas/Maiyshas know best when it comes to beauty ) .
Granted , if you ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ prefer to cop your Fenty from Sephora , but you ’ d be missing out on the brand ’ s Singles ’ Day deal : 25 percent off all highlighters ( $ 27- $ 29.25 ) .
I ’ m a huge fan of the dual-color combinations that debuted with the brand in 2017 , but since Rihanna is nothing if not timely ( except when it comes to dropping that ninth album ) , the Singles ’ Day sale of course includes the two new single-shade Killawatts the brand dropped today , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ below ) .
While you ’ re there , step on over to that Fenty Skin tab and nab their new and limited edition All-Four-One AM-PM Skincare Set ( $ 112 ; value $ 128 ) —if you ’ ve yet to try Fenty Skin , now is definitely the time .
Is that enough retail therapy to fill a lonely heart ?
I wouldn ’ t know , since alone has never meant lonely , to me .
( Maybe it ’ s because I ’ m surrounded by so much beauty @ @ @ @ @ @ @ like singlehood , these deals are fleeting ... so shoot your shot !
Updated : Wednesday , 11/11/20 at 8:25 p.m. , ET : For those of you who are Sephora Insiders , I forgot to mention that Sephora ’ s Rewards Bazaar currently enables members to donate charity points to the Black Women ’ s Roundtable through its Sephora Stands program—a gift that keeps on giving !

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

We live in strange times, y’all—an era of fabricated electoral disputes, a very real pandemic, and seemingly a holiday for every event and demographic imaginable. For instance, here in the United States, November 11 is commonly observed as Veterans Day. But in China, the “Double 11" date is known as Singles’ Day—and for those of you wondering, it’s exactly what it sounds like: “a Chinese unofficial holiday and shopping season that celebrates people who are not in relationships.” Basically, if you’ve ever growled and glared your way through a Valentine’s or Sweetheart’s Day, this is the day for all you self-lovers out there—and what’s more self-loving than upping your beauty routine? (Okay, I can think of one thing more self-loving—but didn’t find any major discounts at those online purveyors, so beauty deals, it is!)
While I usually reserve this type of promotional content for our Big Beauty Tuesdays, since we’re now transitioning into the holiday season, any day is a good day to catch a good sale. Besides, as both an unmarried person and one who loves pretty much any excuse to shop, I happily jumped on this bandwagon. We may not be able to cuddle up with a loved one tonight, but our credit cards might be a worthy substitute—so let’s get into it!
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Yo, for real? If you’ve ever contemplated spending $68 for Pat McGrath’s Skin Fetish: Sublime Perfection Foundation (because it really does live up to the hype), today is the day to get thyself over to the makeup maven’s online marketplace. “Mother” has discounted all 36 shades of the serum-enriched formula 30 percent for Singles’ Day (bringing it to a still pricey but far more reasonable $47.60), and to complete your flawless skin fantasy, head over to her “Xclusive Offers” section to cop the Sublime Perfection Primer (now discounted to $23) and a gang of other goodies for up to 50 percent off.
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But wait, there’s more: If you’re in the budget to spend $85 or more, Pat’s throwing in a free Blitztrance lipstick (full price: $38) in one of three color choices (including an ill-ass copper-flecked red called “Blood Rush”). What do we recommend adding to your cart? The most coveted beauty gift of this holiday season is indisputably McGrath’s Mthrshp Mega: Celestial Divinity Palette ($78), which, while not currently on sale, has also turned out to be one of the best deals ever added to McGrath’s arsenal, offering 18 gorgeously curated luxury eyeshadows in almost the same size pans as her well-known 10-color palettes ($125). Do the math—and don’t ever sleep on Mother.
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For those who prefer a more “Basic Beat,” here’s a very budget-friendly new favorite for you: Fashion Nova launched its first makeup line, Maven Beauty, earlier this fall, and while they may offer over 2000 styles of jeans (no, seriously), their “Basic Beat” is a tightly-edited and surprisingly conservative yet versatile collection of pro-level eye makeup, lipsticks, highlighters and brushes, fantastically packaged and nearly foolproof for makeup aficionados and apprentices alike.
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The brand, which has launched fashion collabs with Cardi B and is soon to add Megan Thee Stallion to the mix, graciously sent over product for TGU to sample. Much to my delight, the color payoff is good, the textures on point, and the shades flattering to most tones (though I could’ve used one more deep lipstick shade out of the five debuted—but again, this is the first launch, and the brand has already announced more coming soon). In fact, the only stumbling block I hit was with Maven’s dial-up liquid eyeliner: love the clever packaging, but dialed just a tad too much—and ended up with an eyeliner explosion (however, I can fully confirm the formula is waterproof and doesn’t budge). So, don’t be like me; try the line, but be patient with that eyeliner. And there’s no time like the present: the already low-priced line (along with the entire site) is 40 percent off with the code 19MILL. At those prices, I’m going to give that liner one more go.
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If you’re already a Sephora Beauty Insider, you likely took advantage of last weekend’s Insider Days to do some early holiday shopping. But if not, never fear: the holidays are the most wonderful time of the year at Sephora—it’s when their value sets come out in full force! One of the big bonuses of beauty and fashion journalism is getting to shop these deals before anyone else, so of course, I did—and therefore have a few recommendations for you.
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Sephora got our attention this spring when they became the first retailer to join the 15 Percent Pledge, promising to allocate at least 15 percent of their future offerings to Black-owned beauty brands. They bolstered that effort by deciding to center BIPOC brands in this year’s class of its Accelerate Program, which helps independent beauty brands develop and ready themselves for the likes of Sephora. Accelerate alum, Bread Beauty Supply, is among the newest of the eight Black-owned brands already carried by Sephora; for the holidays, I highly recommend copping Bread’s four-piece Wash-Day Essentials Kit for Curly & Textured Hair ($58; value: $72), which includes a full-sized bottle of their amazing-smelling and performing Everyday Gloss Hair Oil ($24) along with their excellent hair wash, mask and scrunchie.
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Another major Black haircare brand makes a sweet comeback at Sephora this year, as Briogeo re-releases its Don’t Despair, Repair! Honey Moisture Deep Conditioning Mask ($36; Value: $54). This honey bear-themed set is “infused with organic honey to restore essential hydration and strength to dry, damaged hair” and also includes travel sizes of Briogeo’s famed Don’t Despair, Repair! Deep Conditioning Mask and protein-free Be Gentle, Be Kind Avocado + Kiwi Mega Moisture Superfood Mask. This luxury haircare doesn’t typically come cheap, so I’d jump on it.
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While not Black-owned, I also have to give a shout to Sephora’s in-house collection, as the holidays are when they really show out. The annual palette is a treat I’ve always looked forward to, and this year’s Wild Wishes Multi-Palette Blockbuster ($36; value: $179) doesn’t disappoint, boasting 86 highly pigmented shades for eyes, face and lips—a perfect and pricepoint-friendly starter set for the makeup-crazy teenager on your list (adults who love to experiment with color will love it, too).
And since this holiday season will be synonymous with mask-wearing, several other sets are perfect for stocking stuffing this year (even if the stocking is your own): Sephora’s Face Mask Magic Kit ($25; value $34) includes six enzyme-rich formulas to help combat “maskne; for those inevitably chapped lips, Laneige’s Dream & Wonder Gift Set of Lip Sleeping Masks ($29) is already keeping me kissable (should “single” not turn out to mean “solo”). And since it’s all about the eyes this year, Sephora Favorites Lashstash Mascara Set is a steal ($48; value:$172), since it includes a full-sized Pat McGrath Labs Fetishize mascara, among other great picks in the mix.
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Want more? (Greedy.) Sephora’s Beauty Director Myiesha Sewell shared a few of her faves, so listen up (since we all know Myieshas/Maiyshas know best when it comes to beauty).
Granted, if you’re a one-stop shopper, you may prefer to cop your Fenty from Sephora, but you’d be missing out on the brand’s Singles’ Day deal: 25 percent off all highlighters ($27-$29.25). I’m a huge fan of the dual-color combinations that debuted with the brand in 2017, but since Rihanna is nothing if not timely (except when it comes to dropping that ninth album), the Singles’ Day sale of course includes the two new single-shade Killawatts the brand dropped today, Rose Rave and Royal Icing (pictured below).
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While you’re there, step on over to that Fenty Skin tab and nab their new and limited edition All-Four-One AM-PM Skincare Set ($112; value $128)—if you’ve yet to try Fenty Skin, now is definitely the time.
Advertisement
Is that enough retail therapy to fill a lonely heart? I wouldn’t know, since alone has never meant lonely, to me. (Maybe it’s because I’m surrounded by so much beauty?) What I do know is like singlehood, these deals are fleeting...so shoot your shot!
Updated: Wednesday, 11/11/20 at 8:25 p.m., ET: For those of you who are Sephora Insiders, I forgot to mention that Sephora’s Rewards Bazaar currently enables members to donate charity points to the Black Women’s Roundtable through its Sephora Stands program—a gift that keeps on giving!


theroot--2020-11-11--Lucille Bridges, Mother of Civil Rights Icon Ruby, Dies at 86

Every day , like many American parents , Lucille Bridges walked her first-grader Ruby to school .
But unlike other parents , she did so flanked by federal marshalls , as aggressive mobs of white people , vehemently opposed to racially integrated schools , hurled slurs at her and her daughter .
On Tuesday , Ruby announced the death of her mother on her Instagram account , noting that the country had lost a hero .
“ Brave , progressive , a champion for change .
She helped alter the course of so many lives by setting me out on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , ” Bridges wrote .
“ Our nation lost a Mother of the Civil Rights Movement today .
And I lost my mom.
” “ I love you and am grateful for you .
May you Rest In Peace , ” she added .
Ruby has credited her mother with being the catalyst for her attending the formerly all-white William Frantz Elementary School in New Orleans .
Not only was Ruby the first Black child to attend any white school in New Orleans , she was the first to integrate an all-white elementary @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to WGNO-TV , Lucille Bridges , the daughter of sharecroppers , didn ’ t finish an elementary school education and wanted her daughter to receive better educational opportunities than she did .
Ruby ’ s father , Abon , was hesitant to send his daughter to Fantz elementary school , but Lucille advocated for Ruby to break the color barrier , six years after the landmark Brown vs. Board of Education ruling that declared racially segregated schools unconstitutional .
The decision came at a great cost to the family .
On top of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to school ( white parents withdrew their children from the school , and Ruby was taught her lessons in an empty classroom ) , Abon lost his job and grocery stores in the area refused to sell their goods to Lucille , according to the National Women ’ s History Museum .
Ruby ’ s grandparents were also evicted from the farm they had lived on for 25 years .
Ruby was immortalized in a famous Norman Rockwell painting depicting the violence she endured as a 6-year-old girl .
The painting was recently @ @ @ @ @ @ @ President-elect Kamala Harris , the first Black person to attain such an office , as well as the first woman .
The civil rights icon recently spoke to People magazine about her mother ’ s influence while promoting her new book This Is Your Time .
She notes that , prior to attending the school , her mother didn ’ t try to explain or set expectations for her—a decision she says she understands .
“ What would you say ?
‘ You ’ re about to go to a new school .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ of people out there screaming and yelling at you ... but you know , I ’ m going to be with you and you ’ ll have a great day , ’ ” Bridges said .
“ You just couldn ’ t do that , and so my parents didn ’ t try to explain it to me.
” What her parents did tell her was surprisingly mundane , given the stakes : “ You ’ re going to a new school today and you better behave.
” “ And that was it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ left to my imagination , ” Bridges continued .
“ I always say that what protected me was just having the innocence of a child .
And so being a parent myself , now in hindsight , I wouldn ’ t try to explain that to my 6-year-old .
”

Every day, like many American parents, Lucille Bridges walked her first-grader Ruby to school.
But unlike other parents, she did so flanked by federal marshalls, as aggressive mobs of white people, vehemently opposed to racially integrated schools, hurled slurs at her and her daughter.
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On Tuesday, Ruby announced the death of her mother on her Instagram account, noting that the country had lost a hero.
“Brave, progressive, a champion for change. She helped alter the course of so many lives by setting me out on my path as a six-year-old little girl,” Bridges wrote. “Our nation lost a Mother of the Civil Rights Movement today. And I lost my mom.”
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“I love you and am grateful for you. May you Rest In Peace,” she added.
Lucille Bridges was 86 years old.
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Ruby has credited her mother with being the catalyst for her attending the formerly all-white William Frantz Elementary School in New Orleans. Not only was Ruby the first Black child to attend any white school in New Orleans, she was the first to integrate an all-white elementary school in the entire South.
According to WGNO-TV, Lucille Bridges, the daughter of sharecroppers, didn’t finish an elementary school education and wanted her daughter to receive better educational opportunities than she did.
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Ruby’s father, Abon, was hesitant to send his daughter to Fantz elementary school, but Lucille advocated for Ruby to break the color barrier, six years after the landmark Brown vs. Board of Education ruling that declared racially segregated schools unconstitutional.
The decision came at a great cost to the family. On top of the harassment Ruby faced on the way to school (white parents withdrew their children from the school, and Ruby was taught her lessons in an empty classroom), Abon lost his job and grocery stores in the area refused to sell their goods to Lucille, according to the National Women’s History Museum. Ruby’s grandparents were also evicted from the farm they had lived on for 25 years.
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Ruby was immortalized in a famous Norman Rockwell painting depicting the violence she endured as a 6-year-old girl. The painting was recently referenced in a viral meme featuring Vice President-elect Kamala Harris, the first Black person to attain such an office, as well as the first woman.
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The civil rights icon recently spoke to People magazine about her mother’s influence while promoting her new book This Is Your Time. She notes that, prior to attending the school, her mother didn’t try to explain or set expectations for her—a decision she says she understands.
“What would you say? ‘You’re about to go to a new school. There’s going to be lots of people out there screaming and yelling at you...but you know, I’m going to be with you and you’ll have a great day,’” Bridges said. “You just couldn’t do that, and so my parents didn’t try to explain it to me.”
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What her parents did tell her was surprisingly mundane, given the stakes: “You’re going to a new school today and you better behave.”
“And that was it. And I think everything else was left to my imagination,” Bridges continued. “I always say that what protected me was just having the innocence of a child. And so being a parent myself, now in hindsight, I wouldn’t try to explain that to my 6-year-old.”


theroot--2020-11-11--NYC Pilot Program Will Have Medical Professionals Respond to Mental Health Calls Instead of NYPD

In recent years , we ’ ve seen countless tragedies result from the response by police officers to people suffering a mental health crisis .
New York City is set to launch a pilot program next year that will see healthcare professionals responding to these cases instead of the New York Police Department .
NBC New York reports that the program will launch in February 2021 in two high-need communities .
The communities are still in the process of being selected , with the program looking through data to find the cities with the highest number of 911 calls related @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Bill de Blasio has called the program a “ major innovation , ” and cites the ongoing pandemic for its creation .
“ One in five New Yorkers struggle with a mental health condition .
Now , more than ever , we must do everything we can to reach those people before crisis strikes , ” de Blasio said at a press conference Tuesday , NBC reports .
“ For the first time in our city ’ s history , health responders will be the default responders for a person in crisis , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ receive the help they need.
” In recent months , we ’ ve seen police responses to mental crises turn fatal .
In Rochester , N.Y. , Daniel Prude died from asphyxiation after police officers put a spit hood on him and pinned his head to the ground while he was completely naked .
His brother called 911 because Prude was suffering from a crisis and simply needed help .
“ I placed a phone call for my brother to get help .
Not for my brother to get lynched , ” Joe @ @ @ @ @ @ @ conference .
“ How did you see him and not directly say , ‘ The man is defenseless , buck naked on the ground .
He ’ s cuffed up already .
Come on.
’ How many more brothers got ta die for society to understand that this needs to stop ?
” The program will involve the creation of new 911 EMS Mental Health Teams that will be composed of EMS health professionals and a mental health crisis worker .
While the program isn ’ t set to launch until next year @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the new teams .
The New York Fire Department will be one of the head agencies responsible for overseeing the program , alongside Health + Hospitals , and NYC Well .
“ The FDNY takes great pride in helping to lead the way in the mayor ’ s new initiative , ” FDNY First Deputy Commissioner Laura Kavanagh said during the press conference .
“ There is a mental health crisis in this country .
Here in New York City part of the remedy to this crisis is how we respond to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” While the NYPD will no longer be the default response for non-violent mental health calls , they will still be involved in the program .
In instances where someone suffering from a mental health crisis is reported to have a weapon or has a history of violence , an NYPD officer will be deployed alongside the team , according to USA Today .
First Lady Chirlane McCray noted that in these instances the health care professionals would still “ be in charge of coordinating the effort.
” McCray also noted that of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the city last year , a large majority of them were related to mental health .
De Blasio stated that if the program proves successful , he hopes to expand it to more communities in the city .
“ Our goal overall is to prevent these crises from happening , but when they do , we want to provide better and more compassionate support , ” McCray said .
“ That ’ s why we have retrained tens of thousands of NYPD officers in crisis intervention , helping them to better recognize @ @ @ @ @ @ @ de-escalate tense situations .
With these mental health teams , we will test the model where we relieve police officers of those responsibilities , which in many cases , they should have never been asked to shoulder.
” Nationwide , cities have launched similar programs to the one in New York .
In Denver , a program was launched in June that sends mental health professionals to respond to people who are in crisis and attempts to provide them with help and essential services .
Efforts are currently underway in Los Angeles to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ create a new task force to respond to non-violent 911 calls .

In recent years, we’ve seen countless tragedies result from the response by police officers to people suffering a mental health crisis. New York City is set to launch a pilot program next year that will see healthcare professionals responding to these cases instead of the New York Police Department.
NBC New York reports that the program will launch in February 2021 in two high-need communities. The communities are still in the process of being selected, with the program looking through data to find the cities with the highest number of 911 calls related to mental health crises. NYC Mayor Bill de Blasio has called the program a “major innovation,” and cites the ongoing pandemic for its creation.
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“One in five New Yorkers struggle with a mental health condition. Now, more than ever, we must do everything we can to reach those people before crisis strikes,” de Blasio said at a press conference Tuesday, NBC reports. “For the first time in our city’s history, health responders will be the default responders for a person in crisis, making sure those struggling with mental illness receive the help they need.”
In recent months, we’ve seen police responses to mental crises turn fatal. In Rochester, N.Y., Daniel Prude died from asphyxiation after police officers put a spit hood on him and pinned his head to the ground while he was completely naked. His brother called 911 because Prude was suffering from a crisis and simply needed help.
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“I placed a phone call for my brother to get help. Not for my brother to get lynched,” Joe Prude said in September during a news conference. “How did you see him and not directly say, ‘The man is defenseless, buck naked on the ground. He’s cuffed up already. Come on.’ How many more brothers gotta die for society to understand that this needs to stop?”
The program will involve the creation of new 911 EMS Mental Health Teams that will be composed of EMS health professionals and a mental health crisis worker. While the program isn’t set to launch until next year, the training period has already begun for the new teams. The New York Fire Department will be one of the head agencies responsible for overseeing the program, alongside Health + Hospitals, and NYC Well.
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“The FDNY takes great pride in helping to lead the way in the mayor’s new initiative,” FDNY First Deputy Commissioner Laura Kavanagh said during the press conference. “There is a mental health crisis in this country. Here in New York City part of the remedy to this crisis is how we respond to and treat the patients with mental illness.”
While the NYPD will no longer be the default response for non-violent mental health calls, they will still be involved in the program. In instances where someone suffering from a mental health crisis is reported to have a weapon or has a history of violence, an NYPD officer will be deployed alongside the team, according to USA Today. First Lady Chirlane McCray noted that in these instances the health care professionals would still “be in charge of coordinating the effort.”
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McCray also noted that of the 170,000 911 calls that were placed in the city last year, a large majority of them were related to mental health. De Blasio stated that if the program proves successful, he hopes to expand it to more communities in the city.
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“Our goal overall is to prevent these crises from happening, but when they do, we want to provide better and more compassionate support,” McCray said. “That’s why we have retrained tens of thousands of NYPD officers in crisis intervention, helping them to better recognize signs of emotional distress and how to de-escalate tense situations. With these mental health teams, we will test the model where we relieve police officers of those responsibilities, which in many cases, they should have never been asked to shoulder.”
Nationwide, cities have launched similar programs to the one in New York. In Denver, a program was launched in June that sends mental health professionals to respond to people who are in crisis and attempts to provide them with help and essential services. Efforts are currently underway in Los Angeles to launch a pilot program that would also create a new task force to respond to non-violent 911 calls.


theroot--2020-11-11--Shop Early Black Friday Deals on Apple, LEGO, Ray-Bans, and Preschool Toys in Amazon’s Holiday Dash

Shop Early Black Friday Deals on Apple, LEGO, Ray-Bans, and Preschool Toys in Amazon’s Holiday Dash Sale

Prime Day might be done , but the savings haven ’ t stopped .
Amazon ’ s Holiday Dash sale collects all sorts of bargains from across the site , from headphones to smartphones , toys , candy , DNA tests , and plenty more .
Each day brings new deals , and we ’ ll be updating this space daily to bring you the best of the sales in the weeks ahead .
Whether you ’ re starting your holiday shopping early or just want to keep an eye out for serious savings , be sure to check back @ @ @ @ @ @ @ off Ray-Ban and Oakley Sunglasses If you want some hot shades to get you through the cool months ahead and beyond , scope out Amazon ’ s big deal today .
Dozens of sunglasses from Ray-Ban and Oakley are on sale right now , with many marked down up to 50 % off the list price .
Check out the full selection .
Get the entire eight-film Harry Potter saga on disc today for up to 58 % off the list price .
It ’ s just $ 22 on DVD or $ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up to $ 75 for the full 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray set ( which also has standard Blu-rays included ) — and that ’ s actually the most-discounted version of them all !
Choose your resolution wisely .
Right now , you can save $ 49 off the list price of the larger 44mm version of the new Apple Watch SE in black .
The SE doesn ’ t have all of the same health sensors as the full-blooded Apple Watch Series 6 , plus it lacks the always-on display , but it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and otherwise is pretty comparable .
And right now , you ’ ll save even more at Amazon .
Save Up to 63 % off Popular Preschool Toys Amazon has a wide-ranging sale right now on toys for preschool-aged kids , ranging from toys in the popular Paw Patrol and Peppa Pig franchises to cars and trucks , stuffed animals , learning toys , kid-centric tech , and quite a bit more .
Browse through the sale if you have kids to shop for , and check out a few of our picks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ page Sure to be one of the top games this holiday for kids and families on PlayStation 4 and Xbox One , Crash Bandicoot 4 : It ’ s About Time delivers a charming update to the classic platform-action series , two decades after the last core entry .
It ’ s on sale for $ 20 off the list price on both consoles right now , so snag it while it ’ s cheap !
Just clip the coupon on the product listing to take advantage of the full savings .
Save @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s premium AirPods Pro wireless earbuds right now .
They have a redesigned fit and rubberized tips for added comfort , and pack fuller sound alongside active noise canceling smarts .
The case is also wirelessly chargeable , making it easy to toss it on a charging pad to ensure your ‘ Pods are always ready to rock .
While the required LEGO Super Mario starter set is still full-price at $ 60 , you can save 20 % on several of the expansion sets at Amazon today .
The sale includes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mario ’ s House and Yoshi expansion , and Toad ’ s Treasure Hunt expansion , among others .
If you ’ re building up your collection of these cool , digitally-augmented sets , now ’ s the time to stock up .
Looking for a no-contact thermometer ?
FACEIL ’ s infrared forehead thermometer is just $ 20 at Amazon right now , a savings of $ 6 .
This handy device measures someone ’ s temperature at a distance of a few centimeters or less , delivering an near-instant reading for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
If you ’ re willing to invest a bit more cash , an OLED TV can seriously impress with its deeper black levels and dazzling contrast over typical LCD sets .
This LG CX 55 ” 4K HDR set is an excellent option , and right now it ’ s down to $ 1,397 on Amazon—a 30 % savings .
Save nearly half-off the regular price of Bio Bidet ’ s SlimEdge toilet attachment , which easily hooks up to your existing throne with no plumbing necessary , adding rear-end spitzing capabilities @ @ @ @ @ @ @ paper and get a more refreshing finish by adding a bidet attachment to your toilet .
Save Up to 40 % off Le Creuset Cookware Le Creuset ’ s cast iron cookware and stoneware is serious business and it commands serious prices , as well .
Luckily , Amazon has a bunch of it on deep discount right now , including 40 % off of an Enameled Cast Iron Signature Sauteuse Oven , now $ 180 , plus a cast iron grill pan for $ 100 and $ 20 stoneware salt and pepper @ @

Black Friday weekend hit a little different this year, and for your sake and everyone’s, we hope you did all of your deals shopping online. Luckily, retailers far and wide served up fantastic deals all weekend long, and they’re not stopping.
We’ve seen loads of great Cyber Monday deals, ranging from cheap earbuds and bath towels to PS4 games, cookware, apparel, cosmetics, and more. Here are some of the best deals around right now, updated daily through the rest of this weekend to bring even more can’t-miss bargains.
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This isn’t a deal in terms of price, but if you’re still looking to secure a Nintendo Switch before Christmas, Amazon has the standard console with red and blue Joy-Con controllers up for grabs at $300. It’s currently listed as being in stock on December 15 as of this writing, although that’s sure to change as people snap ‘em up.
Meanwhile, Best Buy has the newly-announced Fortnite Wildcat Bundle in stock, which comes with a specially-branded console along with the free-to-play game pre-downloaded on the system, plus 2,000 V-Bucks and exclusive in-game content. That’s also $300. And lastly, it won’t ship until January, but Amazon also has the adorable Animal Crossing-themed Switch console available for purchase at regular price.
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Amazon has a big Cyber Monday sale on smartphones that includes models from a variety of brands and is mostly focused on budget-friendly hardware. But there are a few big discounts on flagship phones here, too.
Standouts include the new OnePlus 8T for $630, a $120 savings from the list price, as well as the higher-end OnePlus 8 Pro for $750—that’s $250 off. Other bargains include the Moto G Power for $175, Google Pixel 3a XL for $299, and even a Tracfone Apple iPhone 7 for $130. Check out the full deal listing for several sub-$100 phones, as well.
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Got a Nintendo Switch or is someone you love getting it as a holiday gift? If you haven’t already played Mario Kart 8 Deluxe and Super Mario Party, they’re two of the must-play multiplayer gems on the console. And right now, Target is slashing $40 off the combined price for these hits with this discounted bundle. Now that’s a heck of a deal.
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JACHS NY dropped prices up to 70% off for Black Friday, but the deals are even more serious for Cyber Monday, with items now up to 90% off without a coupon or code. JACHS NY primarily specializes in men’s apparel and accessories, but also has a handful of women’s pieces in the mix. Whether you’re looking to stock up for winter or grab some cheap bargains for the rest of the year, now’s the time to save big.
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Clip coupon and use code D3O7SXCN at checkout
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Looking for affordable wireless earbuds that won’t break the bank? You won’t find a much better deal than Mpow’s M5 wireless earbuds for just $30 at Amazon right now. This deal is exclusively for Prime members, mind you, and you’ll have to clip the coupon and use code D3O7SXCN at checkout. These earbuds have a strong 4.4-star rating at Amazon and deliver up to 6 hours of battery life per charge, with an additional 36 hours of charge available in the case.
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If you grew up in a certain era (say, the early-to-mid ‘90s), then you might remember these classic Tiger Electronics handheld video games. They were cheap, featured great licenses, and were a fun way to kill some time. Well, they’re back: these X-Men and Transformers games have been revived exactly as they were back when, and right now they’re $10 each at Amazon. Stuff one of these in a nostalgic fan’s stocking.
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If your dull blades aren’t slicing through proteins like butter these days, then it might be time for a kitchen upgrade. Luckily, Macy’s has these color-coded Cuisinart knives for just $15 right now, a savings of $25. You get five stainless steel blades here, each with a cover for safe storage, ranging from a lil’ 3.5” paring knife up to an 8” chef’s knife.
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Paper Mario: The Origami King was one of the standout releases in a relatively quiet year for the Nintendo Switch, so if you didn’t check it out earlier in 2020, now’s the time to dive in. This role-playing adventure is currently $10 off at Amazon—a rare discount indeed.
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theroot--2020-11-11--Morris Brown College Moves Closer to Regaining Its Accreditation After Nearly 20 Years

I ’ m an Atlanta-area resident who remembers how huge and devastating the 2002 demise of Morris Brown College ’ s accreditation was in the city and especially around the Atlanta University Center ( AUC ) , so it warms my heart to report that the historically Black college is one step closer to winning back its accreditation after losing it nearly 20 years ago .
Fox 5 Atlanta rep orts that representatives for the college announced Wednesday that its application for accreditation was approved by the Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools .
For folks who don ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mismanagement issues that plagued Morris Brown ’ s president and top administrators led to the school ’ s accreditation being revoked by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools .
But the college has been fighting to stay alive ever since and last year , it was approved as an institute of higher learning by the Georgia Nonpublic Postsecondary Education Commission , which , according to the GNPEC website , “ authorizes and regulates the operations of in-state nonpublic and out-of-state postsecondary colleges and schools operating or offering instruction in Georgia.
” After @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Morris Brown officials set their sights on getting TACCS approval .
During the school ’ s homecoming celebration last month , fundraisers received nearly $ 500,000 in donations meant to help the college regain accreditation , according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution .
“ Morris Brown intends to become the first HBCU to earn its accreditation back 20 years after losing it , ” Morris Brown President Kevin James said , Fox 5 reports .
“ When Morris Brown achieves candidacy status , hopefully by April 2021 , it will give the college all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , which allows students to receive federal financial aid .
Additionally , student degrees will be recognized by other schools and/or employers.
” The next step for the HBCU will come in January 2021 when representatives for the TACCS visit the campus .

I’m an Atlanta-area resident who remembers how huge and devastating the 2002 demise of Morris Brown College’s accreditation was in the city and especially around the Atlanta University Center (AUC), so it warms my heart to report that the historically Black college is one step closer to winning back its accreditation after losing it nearly 20 years ago.
Fox 5 Atlanta rep orts that representatives for the college announced Wednesday that its application for accreditation was approved by the Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools.
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For folks who don’t know, in 2002, financial mismanagement issues that plagued Morris Brown’s president and top administrators led to the school’s accreditation being revoked by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. But the college has been fighting to stay alive ever since and last year, it was approved as an institute of higher learning by the Georgia Nonpublic Postsecondary Education Commission, which, according to the GNPEC website, “authorizes and regulates the operations of in-state nonpublic and out-of-state postsecondary colleges and schools operating or offering instruction in Georgia.”
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After earning the approval of the GNPEC, Morris Brown officials set their sights on getting TACCS approval. During the school’s homecoming celebration last month, fundraisers received nearly $500,000 in donations meant to help the college regain accreditation, according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
“Morris Brown intends to become the first HBCU to earn its accreditation back 20 years after losing it,” Morris Brown President Kevin James said, Fox 5 reports. “When Morris Brown achieves candidacy status, hopefully by April 2021, it will give the college all the rights of a fully accredited college, which allows students to receive federal financial aid. Additionally, student degrees will be recognized by other schools and/or employers.”
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The next step for the HBCU will come in January 2021 when representatives for the TACCS visit the campus.
Good luck, Morris Brown College. We’re rooting for you.


theroot--2020-11-11--A Letter to the Dickheads Who Love to Tell You When People You Don't Know Are Talking Shit About You

The list of things that I don ’ t know is boundless .
Endless .
Infinite .
There are so many things that I don ’ t know that the only thing approaching it in scale is the list of things I don ’ t even know that I don ’ t even know .
For instance , I did not know , until last week , that Joe Biden has the same middle name as every nine-year-old model on a box of Just For Me Hair Milk Leave-In Detangler .
I did not know it was even possible for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ because , well , Robinette existed outside of the spectrum of white male names I believed to be possible .
But now I know there ’ s at least one white man—and possibly others—who subvert that expectation .
So now when I meet a white man and I learn his middle name is Regina , I ’ ll be prepared .
And so , I am aware of the possibility that there might be a not-insignificant number of people who actually enjoy being informed that someone they ’ ve never met , seen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ negative thing to say about them .
Maybe you ’ re one of these people .
And you ’ re sitting at a desk right now like I am , but instead of writing a blog , you ’ re on pins and needles excitedly waiting for someone to tell you that some random nigga thinks you smell like Alka Seltzer .
If you do exist , I don ’ t want to erase you !
But I have yet to meet one of these people .
Who I have met—who exist in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ever understood—are the people who love to tell you that “ people ” are talking shit about you .
If you are one of these people , I want to know 1 ) why you exist and 2 ) how to stop this ( your existence ) from happening .
Because I hate you .
It always happens the same way .
You ’ re eating peanuts , minding your own damn business , and here they come with their bullshit .
The dickhead ( TD ) : Yo , I was just @ @ @ @ @ @ @ chick in line at Talbots said your face looks like chicken feet .
TD : Just thought you should know .
I had your back , though .
Said you don ’ t look like chicken feet in person .
Nowhere is this worse than on the internet , where some random could be talking shit about you—which is well within their rights ; talking group shit about things is the entire point of the internet—and someone you know catches wind of the conversation and then tells you about it .
Or , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
So now , not only are they bringing unnecessary negative energy to people ’ s lives , those snitch fucks are tattle-telling on people having a perfectly healthy shit-talking session .
If this is you , a part of me is compelled to give you the benefit of the doubt , and believe that you do this because you ’ d want to know if random people you have no connection to were saying shit about you .
But nah .
You just like the drama .
You just want a reaction @ @ @ @ @ @ @ makes you both a shit-stirrer and a stir made of shit , and no one likes you .
Not even your goldfish .
Fish hate you .
So again , if you do this , tell me why you exist .
And then do me a favor and stop that ( your existence ) from happening , because it stinks over here now .

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

The list of things that I don’t know is boundless. Endless. Infinite. There are so many things that I don’t know that the only thing approaching it in scale is the list of things I don’t even know that I don’t even know.
For instance, I did not know, until last week, that Joe Biden has the same middle name as every nine-year-old model on a box of Just For Me Hair Milk Leave-In Detangler. I did not know it was even possible for white men to be named Robinette, because, well, Robinette existed outside of the spectrum of white male names I believed to be possible. But now I know there’s at least one white man—and possibly others—who subvert that expectation. So now when I meet a white man and I learn his middle name is Regina, I’ll be prepared.
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And so, I am aware of the possibility that there might be a not-insignificant number of people who actually enjoy being informed that someone they’ve never met, seen, or heard of before had a negative thing to say about them. Maybe you’re one of these people. And you’re sitting at a desk right now like I am, but instead of writing a blog, you’re on pins and needles excitedly waiting for someone to tell you that some random nigga thinks you smell like Alka Seltzer. If you do exist, I don’t want to erase you!
But I have yet to meet one of these people. Who I have met—who exist in far greater numbers than I’ve ever understood—are the people who love to tell you that “people” are talking shit about you. If you are one of these people, I want to know 1) why you exist and 2) how to stop this (your existence) from happening. Because I hate you.
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It always happens the same way. You’re eating peanuts, minding your own damn business, and here they come with their bullshit.
A person minding their own damn business (APMTODB): Hey.
The dickhead (TD): Yo, I was just at the mall, and this Emily chick in line at Talbots said your face looks like chicken feet.
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APMTODB: ....ok.
TD: Just thought you should know. I had your back, though. Said you don’t look like chicken feet in person.
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APMTODB: Thanks?
Nowhere is this worse than on the internet, where some random could be talking shit about you—which is well within their rights; talking group shit about things is the entire point of the internet—and someone you know catches wind of the conversation and then tells you about it. Or, even worse, tags you in it. So now, not only are they bringing unnecessary negative energy to people’s lives, those snitch fucks are tattle-telling on people having a perfectly healthy shit-talking session.
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(The goofiest offenders are the ones who tag celebrities in critical but harmless conversations about their work. I’m sure Rihanna was just dying to know that @Stacy_burgh19921 thought ANTI was a coaster, you Donnie Brasco-ass nigga.)
If this is you, a part of me is compelled to give you the benefit of the doubt, and believe that you do this because you’d want to know if random people you have no connection to were saying shit about you. But nah. You just like the drama. You just want a reaction. Maybe even a response. This makes you both a shit-stirrer and a stir made of shit, and no one likes you. Not even your goldfish. Fish hate you.
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So again, if you do this, tell me why you exist. And then do me a favor and stop that (your existence) from happening, because it stinks over here now.


theroot--2020-11-11--'A Promised Land': Oprah and Gayle King Will Get First Dibs on Barack Obama's Presidential Tea

Former President Barack Obama will sit down with two very familiar faces as his long-awaited new memoir , A Promised Land , launches next week .
Gayle King will be first on the docket to chat with Mr. 44 on Nov. 15 for CBS Sunday Morning .
While the timing of the interview coincides with the release of Obama ’ s new book , the interview will also be the former president ’ s first since his close friend and vice president , Joe Biden , won the 2020 election .
So you can probably expect him to talk at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ President-elect Kamala Harris ’ victory , as well as Donald Trump ’ s attempts to illegally hold on to the White House .
Does he take fears of a GOP coup seriously ?
Or is he swapping memes in the Illuminati group chat with Beyoncé and Oprah ?
Speaking of Ms. Winfrey , Oprah will be doing her own formal sit-down with Obama on the day his book launches , Nov. 17 , for a “ candid conversation ” with the nation ’ s first Black president , according to a press release @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wait , ” said Oprah .
“ Everybody who reads it is going to be on this journey from the grueling and monotonous grind of the campaign , to taking us inside the Oval Office and the Cabinet Room and the Situation Room and sometimes , even the bedroom .
This book has both the intimacy and the grandeur coming through in this memoir , and I have so been looking forward to speaking with him about all of it.
” Oprah will be far from the only one .
There is a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of which 3 million copies have already been printed .
It will be published in 24 languages , CBS News reports , including Chinese , Greek and Vietnamese .
Obama described the book as an “ honest accounting ” of his ascent to the presidency .
“ I ’ ve spent the last few years reflecting on my presidency ... the key events and people who shaped [ my presidency ] , my take on what I got right and the mistakes I made , and the political , economic , and cultural @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to confront then—and that as a nation we are grappling with still , ” Obama said in an earlier press release .
We ’ ll also soon see how Obama ’ s book stacks against Michelle Obama ’ s Becoming , which as of March of last year , was one of the bestselling books of the decade and on pace to become the bestselling memoir ever .
The pre-recorded episode of “ The Oprah Conversation ” will premiere on AppleTV+ at 9 a.m. on Tuesday and be available to watch for free @ @ @ @

Former President Barack Obama will sit down with two very familiar faces as his long-awaited new memoir, A Promised Land, launches next week.
Gayle King will be first on the docket to chat with Mr. 44 on Nov. 15 for CBS Sunday Morning. While the timing of the interview coincides with the release of Obama’s new book, the interview will also be the former president’s first since his close friend and vice president, Joe Biden, won the 2020 election. So you can probably expect him to talk at least a little about Biden and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris’ victory, as well as Donald Trump’s attempts to illegally hold on to the White House. Does he take fears of a GOP coup seriously? Or is he swapping memes in the Illuminati group chat with Beyoncé and Oprah?
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Speaking of Ms. Winfrey, Oprah will be doing her own formal sit-down with Obama on the day his book launches, Nov. 17, for a “candid conversation” with the nation’s first Black president, according to a press release.
“This book was worth the wait,” said Oprah. “Everybody who reads it is going to be on this journey from the grueling and monotonous grind of the campaign, to taking us inside the Oval Office and the Cabinet Room and the Situation Room and sometimes, even the bedroom. This book has both the intimacy and the grandeur coming through in this memoir, and I have so been looking forward to speaking with him about all of it.”
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Oprah will be far from the only one. There is a massive demand for the 768-page tome, of which 3 million copies have already been printed. It will be published in 24 languages, CBS News reports, including Chinese, Greek and Vietnamese. Obama described the book as an “honest accounting” of his ascent to the presidency.
“I’ve spent the last few years reflecting on my presidency...the key events and people who shaped [my presidency], my take on what I got right and the mistakes I made, and the political, economic, and cultural forces that my team and I had to confront then—and that as a nation we are grappling with still,” Obama said in an earlier press release.
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We’ll also soon see how Obama’s book stacks against Michelle Obama’s Becoming, which as of March of last year, was one of the bestselling books of the decade and on pace to become the bestselling memoir ever.
The pre-recorded episode of “The Oprah Conversation” will premiere on AppleTV+ at 9 a.m. on Tuesday and be available to watch for free through December 1.