theroot--2020-04-24--Instagram Live Shows Have Become the Norm, But Travis Scott Just Killed a Concert...in a Video Game

I ’ ve never played Fortnite a day of my life , but with COVID-19 forcing the music industry to undergo a virtual revolution , it was only a matter of time before someone figured out a way to capitalize on the game ’ s enormous popularity .
And by someone , I mean Travis Scott .
On Thursday night , La Flame threw an in-game concert—yes , a concert in a damn video game—and broke a record or 17 by having over 12 million gamers in attendance .
12 million !
For those wondering what in the hell a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Verg e breaks down the rapper ’ s set as such : Really , the entire Fortnite island was the stage .
During the opening song a giant Scott stomped around the island , while players could run across the water to catch a glimpse .
As the tracks changed , so did the visuals .
At one point everything was fiery and Scott turned into a cyborg ; later it looked like everyone had been transported to Tron .
When “ Highest in the Room ” came on , the crowd @ @ @ @ @ @ @ giant spaceman .
There were rollercoasters and psychedelic effects and at the end players were literally flying around the planet .
Outside of what sounds like a complimentary acid trip , the audience was also treated to the world premiere of “ The Scotts , ” the brand spanking new collab between the Houston rapper and one of my personal favs , Kid Cudi .
Fortnite players figured something was up days ago when a concert stage was constructed at the Sweaty Sands beach in-game that featured a black stage on top of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Travis Scott heads .
To celebrate the surreal occasion , Scott thanked his fans on Twitter .
“ Honestly today was one of the most inspiring days , ” he tweeted on Thursday .
“ Love every single one of [ you ] guys .
And I know times are weird for us .
But for one moment to be able to have the ragers to rage where you are is amazing .
Love [ you ] guys with all my body.
” If you missed last night ’ s festivities , worry @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ t just a one-off concert , but the first stop of his in-game Astronomical tour .
So if you ’ re up for elbowing a few million people out the way for a front-row seat , here ’ s the full list of dates and times for the rest of the rest of his virtual Fortnite tour :

Jay Connor on The Grapevine, shared by Jay Connor to The Root

I’ve never played Fortnite a day of my life, but with COVID-19 forcing the music industry to undergo a virtual revolution, it was only a matter of time before someone figured out a way to capitalize on the game’s enormous popularity.
And by someone, I mean Travis Scott.
On Thursday night, La Flame threw an in-game concert—yes, a concert in a damn video game—and broke a record or 17 by having over 12 million gamers in attendance. 12 million!
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For those wondering what in the hell a video game concert even looks like, the Verg e breaks down the rapper’s set as such:
Really, the entire Fortnite island was the stage. During the opening song a giant Scott stomped around the island, while players could run across the water to catch a glimpse. As the tracks changed, so did the visuals. At one point everything was fiery and Scott turned into a cyborg; later it looked like everyone had been transported to Tron. When “Highest in the Room” came on, the crowd was submerged underwater, along with a giant spaceman. There were rollercoasters and psychedelic effects and at the end players were literally flying around the planet.
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Outside of what sounds like a complimentary acid trip, the audience was also treated to the world premiere of “The Scotts, ” the brand spanking new collab between the Houston rapper and one of my personal favs, Kid Cudi.
Fortnite players figured something was up days ago when a concert stage was constructed at the Sweaty Sands beach in-game that featured a black stage on top of the water and multiple gold, inflatable Travis Scott heads.
Advertisement
To celebrate the surreal occasion, Scott thanked his fans on Twitter.
“Honestly today was one of the most inspiring days,” he tweeted on Thursday. “Love every single one of [you] guys. And I know times are weird for us. But for one moment to be able to have the ragers to rage where you are is amazing. Love [you] guys with all my body.”
Advertisement
If you missed last night’s festivities, worry not. Because apparently last night wasn’t just a one-off concert, but the first stop of his in-game Astronomical tour. So if you’re up for elbowing a few million people out the way for a front-row seat, here’s the full list of dates and times for the rest of the rest of his virtual Fortnite tour:


theroot--2020-04-24--Grounded: This Black-Owned Plant Subscription Business Hopes Its Greenery Can Give Us Some Peace of

Grounded: This Black-Owned Plant Subscription Business Hopes Its Greenery Can Give Us Some Peace of Mind

If you ’ re lucky enough to have a bit of extra money to spend , you might be wrestling with what purchases to make .
Something indulgent maybe , but not frivolous .
Something comforting , but not disposable .
Something that supports small businesses , or black entrepreneurs .
Something you can feel good about .
The founders of Grounded think they have the answer .
Danuelle Doswell and Mignon Hemsley launched the virtual plant shop and subscription service on April 22—Earth Day—and sold out of individual plants within hours of opening up shop .
Both women are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is a freelance digital marketer , while Hemsley is a freelance graphic designer , DJ and photographer .
They connected over their love of plants and gardening , and had been working on their plant business for almost a year .
They wanted to offer people an easy , convenient place to purchase plants online , and they knew they wanted to center the physical and emotional benefits plants provide .
Then , the coronavirus pandemic happened .
And while many small businesses have been forced to shutter during the quarantine , Doswell @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : a chance to offer some healing , and some joy , during a time when many are housebound and yearning for nature or self-care rituals .
“ [ The conditions of the pandemic ] kind of aligned with how our structure was anyway , ” Hemsley told The Glow Up about their decision to go forward with the launch .
The online service offers three kinds of individual plants for purchase : snake plants , golden pothos , and aloe vera .
Or , you can sign up for their subscription service @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a different plant each month for three months , for the flat rate of $ 75 .
The plants are sourced by Doswell and Hemsley through nurseries in the New York City and metropolitan D.C. area .
Houseplants have been framed as a millennial-driven social media trend .
Plant enthusiasts and amateur horticulturists have opined as to why this is : some cite a yearning for nurturing that is more apartment-friendly and less time-consuming than having a pet .
Others say it ’ s a way to connect with nature , especially if @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The surging interest in plants has also been connected to the wellness movement : not only can some plants offer physical benefits , like helping to clean the air , but the practice of caring for a plant helps people slow down and get out of their own heads .
It ’ s this wellness component that Hemsley and Doswell want to foreground in their business , especially at a time when caring for your mental health has become all the more urgent .
“ We want to promote the fact that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from your phone , from the news , from social media , and you can attend to this thing that ’ s alive , that ’ s purifying your air .
And it ’ s helping you mentally , overall , ” says Hemsley .
The small rituals of caring for a plant—spraying down the leaves , checking the soil for moisture , re-potting them , conversing with them , fussing over new growth or stubborn buds , collecting rainwater so the soil can get more nutrients—are ones Doswell and Hemsley relish .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ for them , especially other work has slowed down , has been the ability to focus more on their own personal plants , as well as their business .
But these aren ’ t just grounding practices for Doswell and Hemsley .
They see their love of planting and gardening as a matter of inheritance , one that is deeply rooted in their identities as black women .
One feature of any millennial trend—and this is true of plant care as well—is the prominence of the effervescent white woman , typically perched on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with an astonishing amount of natural light .
Grounded , however , centers blackness in ways that are both subtle and explicit .
Their website prominently features black hands holding their earthenware pots , for example .
But they also developed Grounded as an extension of their family heritage .
Both women credit their families with their love of plants and gardening .
Hemsley grew up helping her mother grow strawberries and other fruits and vegetables in their backyard .
Growing up in Pittsburgh and Alexandria , Va. , plants were a staple @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ All my aunts , my grandmother , my great aunt—all have plants in their homes , ” she said .
When Doswell thinks of her ancestors , her mind immediately goes to their history of sharecropping down south .
To her and Hemsley , growing plants is “ embedded in our genes.
” “ It is definitely innate , ” Doswell said .
“ African Americans , we ’ re magical .
Black people are magical .
Whatever we touch , grows .
Especially with the intention and the passion behind @ @ @ @ @ @ @ happy they ’ re able to spread the joy , the care , and the connection that comes from caring—and learning how to care—for plants .
Hemsley said they ’ ve been getting a lot of feedback from customers : some who sent plants to their family members who are living alone to help cheer them up , others who are excited about owning their first plant .
“ The outpour of love ... is amazing , ” said Hemsley .
“ To see that when [ customers ] are getting their order @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s day or make them feel like they have this sense of responsibility ... that just helps us feel like we ’ re really spreading the message we wanted to spread.
” Subscription offers on rounded-plants.com are still available , and Doswell says individual plants will be restocked and available within the next month .
Prospective and current customers can also follow them on Instagram and Facebook for updates .

Anne Branigin on The Glow Up, shared by Anne Branigin to The Root

If you’re lucky enough to have a bit of extra money to spend, you might be wrestling with what purchases to make. Something indulgent maybe, but not frivolous. Something comforting, but not disposable. Something that supports small businesses, or black entrepreneurs. Something you can feel good about.
The founders of Grounded think they have the answer.
Danuelle Doswell and Mignon Hemsley launched the virtual plant shop and subscription service on April 22—Earth Day—and sold out of individual plants within hours of opening up shop. Both women are millennials with strong entrepreneurial streaks: Doswell is a freelance digital marketer, while Hemsley is a freelance graphic designer, DJ and photographer. They connected over their love of plants and gardening, and had been working on their plant business for almost a year. They wanted to offer people an easy, convenient place to purchase plants online, and they knew they wanted to center the physical and emotional benefits plants provide.
Advertisement
Then, the coronavirus pandemic happened. And while many small businesses have been forced to shutter during the quarantine, Doswell and Hemsley saw an opportunity for Grounded: a chance to offer some healing, and some joy, during a time when many are housebound and yearning for nature or self-care rituals.
“[The conditions of the pandemic] kind of aligned with how our structure was anyway,” Hemsley told The Glow Up about their decision to go forward with the launch.
Advertisement Advertisement
The online service offers three kinds of individual plants for purchase: snake plants, golden pothos, and aloe vera. Or, you can sign up for their subscription service, through which Grounded will send you a different plant each month for three months, for the flat rate of $75. The plants are sourced by Doswell and Hemsley through nurseries in the New York City and metropolitan D.C. area.
Houseplants have been framed as a millennial-driven social media trend. Plant enthusiasts and amateur horticulturists have opined as to why this is: some cite a yearning for nurturing that is more apartment-friendly and less time-consuming than having a pet. Others say it’s a way to connect with nature, especially if you’re in an urban environment. The surging interest in plants has also been connected to the wellness movement: not only can some plants offer physical benefits, like helping to clean the air, but the practice of caring for a plant helps people slow down and get out of their own heads.
Advertisement
It’s this wellness component that Hemsley and Doswell want to foreground in their business, especially at a time when caring for your mental health has become all the more urgent.
“We want to promote the fact that, you know, you can disconnect from your phone, from the news, from social media, and you can attend to this thing that’s alive, that’s purifying your air. And it’s helping you mentally, overall,” says Hemsley.
Advertisement
The small rituals of caring for a plant—spraying down the leaves, checking the soil for moisture, re-potting them, conversing with them, fussing over new growth or stubborn buds, collecting rainwater so the soil can get more nutrients—are ones Doswell and Hemsley relish. And a silver lining of the pandemic for them, especially other work has slowed down, has been the ability to focus more on their own personal plants, as well as their business.
But these aren’t just grounding practices for Doswell and Hemsley. They see their love of planting and gardening as a matter of inheritance, one that is deeply rooted in their identities as black women.
Advertisement
One feature of any millennial trend—and this is true of plant care as well—is the prominence of the effervescent white woman, typically perched on a window sill in an apartment filled with an astonishing amount of natural light. Grounded, however, centers blackness in ways that are both subtle and explicit. Their website prominently features black hands holding their earthenware pots, for example. But they also developed Grounded as an extension of their family heritage.
Both women credit their families with their love of plants and gardening. Hemsley grew up helping her mother grow strawberries and other fruits and vegetables in their backyard. Growing up in Pittsburgh and Alexandria, Va., plants were a staple of Doswell’s household as well.
Advertisement
“All my aunts, my grandmother, my great aunt—all have plants in their homes,” she said.
When Doswell thinks of her ancestors, her mind immediately goes to their history of sharecropping down south. To her and Hemsley, growing plants is “embedded in our genes.”
Advertisement
“It is definitely innate,” Doswell said. “African Americans, we’re magical. Black people are magical. Whatever we touch, grows. Especially with the intention and the passion behind it.”
Now, they’re happy they’re able to spread the joy, the care, and the connection that comes from caring—and learning how to care—for plants. Hemsley said they’ve been getting a lot of feedback from customers: some who sent plants to their family members who are living alone to help cheer them up, others who are excited about owning their first plant.
Advertisement
“The outpour of love...is amazing,” said Hemsley. “To see that when [customers] are getting their order, that we could possibly brighten somebody’s day or make them feel like they have this sense of responsibility...that just helps us feel like we’re really spreading the message we wanted to spread.”
Subscription offers on rounded-plants.com are still available, and Doswell says individual plants will be restocked and available within the next month. Prospective and current customers can also follow them on Instagram and Facebook for updates.


theroot--2020-04-24--The Gift: Beyoncé Donates $6 Million to COVID-19 Relief Through Her BeyGOOD Initiative

April 23 , 2020 might mark the fourth anniversary of the release of Beyoncé ’ s magnum opus , Lemonade , but there ’ s clearly no “ Love Drought ” when it comes to the singer ’ s philanthropy .
( Yeah , we saw y ’ all making the song trend today—and agree it ’ s a perennial fave . )
After making a noteworthy appearance on last Saturday ’ s live-streamed Global Citizen event , Harper ’ s Bazaar reports that the star ’ s BeyGOOD initiative is partnering with Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey ’ s # @ @ @ @ @ @ @ support of organizations that provide mental wellness services .
The timing couldn ’ t be better , as not only are we approaching Mental Health Awareness Month in May , but the coronavirus crisis—and the prolonged isolation and heightened anxiety it has caused—has exacerbated existing mental health issues for many .
As Bazaar reports , BeyGOOD ’ s efforts will primarily focus on large cities , where COVID-19 has been especially devastating in its impact .
“ The recipients include health facilities supported by UCLA , the National Alliance on Mental Illness ( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ New Orleans , and Detroit ) , the United Memorial Medical Center , Bread of Life , Matthew 25 , and more.
” As Bey noted during her Global Citizen appearance , big cities have also been the apex of the disproportionate effect of COVID-19 upon black communities .
“ African-American communities at large have been severely affected in this crisis , ” she said on Saturday .
A statement from her representatives reprinted by Bazaar doubles down on this fact .
“ In our major cities , African-Americans comprise a disproportionate number @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and they will need mental health support and personal wellness care , including testing and medical services , food supplies and food deliveries , both during and after the crisis.
” Beyoncé ’ s latest act of philanthropy not only follows husband Jay-Z ’ s but fellow megastar Rihanna , who also partnered with Dorsey—who has donated over $ 1 billion , to date—to provide relief and support to domestic violence victims , as so many are trapped in their homes with their abusers while sheltering in place .
So if you ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in formation and # BeyGOOD , too ; a list of organization partners are on Beyoncé ’ s website .

Maiysha Kai on The Grapevine, shared by Maiysha Kai to The Root

April 23, 2020 might mark the fourth anniversary of the release of Beyoncé’s magnum opus, Lemonade, but there’s clearly no “Love Drought” when it comes to the singer’s philanthropy. (Yeah, we saw y’all making the song trend today—and agree it’s a perennial fave.)
After making a noteworthy appearance on last Saturday’s live-streamed Global Citizen event, Harper’s Bazaar reports that the star’s BeyGOOD initiative is partnering with Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey’s #Startsmall to donate $6 million in support of organizations that provide mental wellness services.
Advertisement
The timing couldn’t be better, as not only are we approaching Mental Health Awareness Month in May, but the coronavirus crisis—and the prolonged isolation and heightened anxiety it has caused—has exacerbated existing mental health issues for many.
Advertisement Advertisement
As Bazaar reports, BeyGOOD’s efforts will primarily focus on large cities, where COVID-19 has been especially devastating in its impact. “The recipients include health facilities supported by UCLA, the National Alliance on Mental Illness (particularly in New York, Houston, New Orleans, and Detroit), the United Memorial Medical Center, Bread of Life, Matthew 25, and more.”
As Bey noted during her Global Citizen appearance, big cities have also been the apex of the disproportionate effect of COVID-19 upon black communities.
Advertisement
“African-American communities at large have been severely affected in this crisis,” she said on Saturday.
Advertisement
A statement from her representatives reprinted by Bazaar doubles down on this fact. “In our major cities, African-Americans comprise a disproportionate number of workers in these indispensable occupations, and they will need mental health support and personal wellness care, including testing and medical services, food supplies and food deliveries, both during and after the crisis.”
Beyoncé’s latest act of philanthropy not only follows husband Jay-Z’s but fellow megastar Rihanna, who also partnered with Dorsey—who has donated over $1 billion, to date—to provide relief and support to domestic violence victims, as so many are trapped in their homes with their abusers while sheltering in place.
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So if you’re able, let’s get in formation and #BeyGOOD, too; a list of organization partners are on Beyoncé’s website.


theroot--2020-04-24--The Teddy Riley Jokes Were Fun but Let's Remember to Put Some Respect on His Name, Please

A few years back , I wrote an article about Raphael Saadiq being the most underappreciated R & B artist of all time .
I still believe this to be true .
We ’ ve been stuck in the house for weeks now watching IG Live battles of artists going back and forth with their catalogs , and when people are proposing matchups , Saadiq ’ s name rarely comes up though he could probably wash a sizable number of artists in a battle .
I have no idea if his name has been floated by the folks who put @ @ @ @ @ @ @ know that he should “ Be Here.
” You see what I did there ?
You probably don ’ t .
See ?
Underappreciated .
While Teddy Riley isn ’ t nearly as underappreciated as Saadiq , in my opinion , I do think he might feel that his contributions to black music don ’ t get enough shine .
He ’ s rightfully credited with the creation of New Jack Swing , though its biggest benefactors were other artists .
And even still , he wasn ’ t credited with some of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is the producer of Bobby Brown ’ s “ My Prerogative ” but the credits list Gene Griffin .
How many people knew he produced Doug E. Fresh ’ s “ The Show ” before his Verzuz battle with Babyface ?
Babyface sure didn ’ t and he was an adult when the song came out .
Either way , it ’ s not common knowledge .
Point is , for some reason , I don ’ t think folks give Teddy Riley enough credit , which is a shame because when the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the world who he is presented itself , he absolutely did himself no favors .
So I have a theory about what Teddy was trying to accomplish in the Verzuz battle that launched a million memes .
He is a touring artist , so there is clearly an audience that appreciates him and the groups he helmed , like Guy and Blackstreet .
But this was a chance for Teddy to show what he was responsible for and what he , personally , brought to the game .
I think this is why @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the lack of social distancing when EVERYBODY else was mostly solo ( or close to it ) at home in their studios .
Teddy had a whole concert set-up .
He had a ( futile ) soundcheck .
He had keys and a DJ and a hypeman .
And choreography .
And I think we can all agree that he was doing too much .
But I think he was doing too much because this was his chance to show us all , or however many people showed up—at its height it was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ what a time to blow it—just how much culture he was responsible for .
Teddy was going to put on a show for us all .
I ’ m sure he was excited to go up against Babyface— hell , they ’ ve worked on several of the same albums trading hit songs amongst one another .
B ut Babyface is Babyface , with solo hits and albums .
We know what Babyface can do .
Which is interesting because before the battle , and honestly even once the dust settled and I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to be the victor .
Teddy has songs built for a battle framework .
Babyface is one of the most accomplished songwriters and producers of the ‘ 80s and ‘ 90s .
Babyface has hit hits , and hits that stayed hits for a very long time .
He penned two of the longest-running Billboard chart-toppers ever in “ End of the Road , ” and “ I ’ ll Make Love to You , ” both for Boyz II Men .
And Toni Braxton songs and Whitney Houston songs , etc .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ jams .
I grew up in the heyday for both Babyface and Teddy ; Teddy ( and his sound ) absolutely ruled the R & B day for those of us under 30 in the ‘ 80s and ‘ 90s .
We all know and love Babyface , but he ’ s a slow jam , ballad maven .
Even his Toni Braxton songs are slower ; in a battle , that makes no sense .
But because Teddy Riley did too much ( “ Teddy Did Too Much ” could easily be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ book about being focused and keeping the main thing the main thing ) , by the time they actually got to battling , folks were looking at songs like “ Whip Appeal ” versus “ Let ’ s Chill ” and debating which song won .
It ’ s obviously Guy ’ s “ Let ’ s Chill ” but because it was Teddy playing the songs and because he ’ s become the butt of so many jokes , the argument had legs .
But whatever , it ’ s a battle @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ m more of a Teddy fan than a Babyface fan ; others feel differently .
That would be all well and good until I looked at Twitter and saw some patently outrageous claims .
At the end of their Verzuz battle when technical difficulties had Babyface trying to get Teddy back into his IG and Teddy more or less giving up and deciding to hold a jam session of sorts , once Babyface called it a night , folks went from Babyface ’ s IG to Teddy ’ s IG .
I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the famous “ ain ’ t nobody coming to see you Otis ” line in regards to Teddy as if Babyface was the reason anybody showed up in the first place .
And I get it : Teddy ’ s propensity to do too much had a whole bunch of people looking at him sideways , but turning his legacy into a sideshow as if folks weren ’ t genuinely excited to see him face- up against Babyface is just wrong .
To assume that he was the luckily invited guest there to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the battle was over is a bridge too far .
And it goes right back to my theory about him being underappreciated .
Teddy managed to turn his legacy into # TeamTooMuch for a lot of people who turned him into memes about doing too much .
When folks mention Teddy Riley ’ s name now , his two performances during Verzuz are going to come up every time , which is a shame .
Teddy has produced for big name after big name and made hit after hit but because he spent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it ’ s easy to forget .
This was his chance and the music was amazing , but his shenanigans created a whole new reality where the already musically underappreciated Teddy Riley becomes known for less than positive reasons .
Somebody can condescendingly refer to him as Otis Williams from The Temptations and others will jokingly co-sign .
Maybe he did it to himself , but maybe he also was just trying to take his moment to shine and he just over-shot the moon .
In two fell swoops , Babyface , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ King of Shade and Teddy Riley , the architect for the sound that the ENTIRE ‘ 90s adopted , from Mary to SWV to Bobby Brown to Janet Jackson to Michael Jackson , etc.
, becomes the spokesman for knock-off Ivy Park , hands-on-hips and wasting everybody ’ s time .
It ’ s a shame and while I know those of us who love Teddy Riley ’ s music aren ’ t going to stop enjoying it , I hope the respect for his craft stays intact and maybe one day , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the game .

Panama Jackson on Very Smart Brothas, shared by Panama Jackson to The Root

A few years back, I wrote an article about Raphael Saadiq being the most underappreciated R&B artist of all time. I still believe this to be true. We’ve been stuck in the house for weeks now watching IG Live battles of artists going back and forth with their catalogs, and when people are proposing matchups, Saadiq’s name rarely comes up though he could probably wash a sizable number of artists in a battle. I have no idea if his name has been floated by the folks who put these things together, but I do know that he should “Be Here.” You see what I did there? You probably don’t. See? Underappreciated.
Advertisement
While Teddy Riley isn’t nearly as underappreciated as Saadiq, in my opinion, I do think he might feel that his contributions to black music don’t get enough shine. He’s rightfully credited with the creation of New Jack Swing, though its biggest benefactors were other artists. And even still, he wasn’t credited with some of those creations. For instance, he is the producer of Bobby Brown’s “My Prerogative” but the credits list Gene Griffin. How many people knew he produced Doug E. Fresh’s “The Show” before his Verzuz battle with Babyface? Babyface sure didn’t and he was an adult when the song came out. Either way, it’s not common knowledge. Point is, for some reason, I don’t think folks give Teddy Riley enough credit, which is a shame because when the opportunity to seize the moment and show the world who he is presented itself, he absolutely did himself no favors.
So I have a theory about what Teddy was trying to accomplish in the Verzuz battle that launched a million memes. He is a touring artist, so there is clearly an audience that appreciates him and the groups he helmed, like Guy and Blackstreet. But this was a chance for Teddy to show what he was responsible for and what he, personally, brought to the game. I think this is why Teddy was willing to face ridicule for the lack of social distancing when EVERYBODY else was mostly solo (or close to it) at home in their studios.
Advertisement Advertisement
Teddy had a whole concert set-up. He had a (futile) soundcheck. He had keys and a DJ and a hypeman. And choreography. And I think we can all agree that he was doing too much. But I think he was doing too much because this was his chance to show us all, or however many people showed up—at its height it was over 420k viewers at one time; what a time to blow it—just how much culture he was responsible for. Teddy was going to put on a show for us all. I’m sure he was excited to go up against Babyface— hell, they’ve worked on several of the same albums trading hit songs amongst one another. B ut Babyface is Babyface, with solo hits and albums. We know what Babyface can do.
Which is interesting because before the battle, and honestly even once the dust settled and I checked the matchups, I expected Teddy to be the victor. Teddy has songs built for a battle framework. Babyface is one of the most accomplished songwriters and producers of the ‘ 80s and ‘ 90s. Babyface has hit hits, and hits that stayed hits for a very long time. He penned two of the longest-running Billboard chart-toppers ever in “End of the Road,” and “I’ll Make Love to You,” both for Boyz II Men. And Toni Braxton songs and Whitney Houston songs, etc. But Teddy has jams.
Advertisement
Like jams jams. I grew up in the heyday for both Babyface and Teddy; Teddy (and his sound) absolutely ruled the R&B day for those of us under 30 in the ‘ 80s and ‘ 90s. We all know and love Babyface, but he’s a slow jam, ballad maven. Even his Toni Braxton songs are slower; in a battle, that makes no sense. But because Teddy Riley did too much (“Teddy Did Too Much” could easily be the name of a children’s book about being focused and keeping the main thing the main thing), by the time they actually got to battling, folks were looking at songs like “Whip Appeal” versus “Let’s Chill” and debating which song won. It’s obviously Guy’s “Let’s Chill” but because it was Teddy playing the songs and because he’s become the butt of so many jokes, the argument had legs. But whatever, it’s a battle and somebody had to lose. I’m more of a Teddy fan than a Babyface fan; others feel differently.
That would be all well and good until I looked at Twitter and saw some patently outrageous claims. At the end of their Verzuz battle when technical difficulties had Babyface trying to get Teddy back into his IG and Teddy more or less giving up and deciding to hold a jam session of sorts, once Babyface called it a night, folks went from Babyface’s IG to Teddy’s IG. I saw some tweets that made reference to the famous “ain’t nobody coming to see you Otis” line in regards to Teddy as if Babyface was the reason anybody showed up in the first place. And I get it: Teddy’s propensity to do too much had a whole bunch of people looking at him sideways, but turning his legacy into a sideshow as if folks weren’t genuinely excited to see him face- up against Babyface is just wrong. To assume that he was the luckily invited guest there to blow out Babyface’s candles when the battle was over is a bridge too far.
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And it goes right back to my theory about him being underappreciated. Teddy managed to turn his legacy into #TeamTooMuch for a lot of people who turned him into memes about doing too much. When folks mention Teddy Riley’s name now, his two performances during Verzuz are going to come up every time, which is a shame. Teddy has produced for big name after big name and made hit after hit but because he spent so much time behind the boards, it’s easy to forget. This was his chance and the music was amazing, but his shenanigans created a whole new reality where the already musically underappreciated Teddy Riley becomes known for less than positive reasons. Somebody can condescendingly refer to him as Otis Williams from The Temptations and others will jokingly co-sign.
Maybe he did it to himself, but maybe he also was just trying to take his moment to shine and he just over-shot the moon. In two fell swoops, Babyface, the soft-voiced R&B singer became the King of Shade and Teddy Riley, the architect for the sound that the ENTIRE ‘ 90s adopted, from Mary to SWV to Bobby Brown to Janet Jackson to Michael Jackson, etc., becomes the spokesman for knock-off Ivy Park, hands-on-hips and wasting everybody’s time. It’s a shame and while I know those of us who love Teddy Riley’s music aren’t going to stop enjoying it, I hope the respect for his craft stays intact and maybe one day, folks will really appreciate what he gave the game.
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Right, Ted? We outta here.


theroot--2020-04-24--When Can I See You Again?

When Can I See You Again?

When I call my father on the weekends , we talk about a myriad of things .
How the family is doing , politics , food , my mental health , and…of course , the halcyon past when his beloved , comical aunts were still cracking jokes , when his kind mother was still doling out hugs , when he and his brothers were young and causing trouble , when my mother was still young and in her right mind , and when all these people were very , very much alive .
Basically , we reminisce about a past @ @ @ @ @ @ @ us .
Of when I was a child and everything was “ normal.
” When my biggest problems were being afraid of the basement my mom had banished my sisters and me to play in because she couldn ’ t bear to watch my big sister Denise and me “ tear up ” our Barbies .
I realize as I write this that this all sounds very bleak but the conversations are actually quite comforting .
As long as you can remember someone , they ’ re never really gone .
For a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ vibrant and alive as we remembered , making us laugh or making us mad or filling our hearts with love .
This weekend was not different from any other weekend , other than an off-handed comment from my father between the reminiscing and jokes that it might be a minute before he gets to NYC to see me .
You see , my father has never been to visit me since I grew up and moved away .
He had planned to see me once , when my mom was still healthy and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Texas , but I “ surprised ” him by marrying my future ex-husband who they didn ’ t care for , so he canceled the trip .
Years later , I would move to California and my sister Denise would come once a year every year I was there , while my baby sister , Deidre , lived in Bakersfield with me for one summer .
My mom , who helped me move out there , only came one other time in the five years I was there because she was afraid of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to visit .
Years would pass , I would move home to St. Louis , then to Washington , D.C. , then , finally , to Manhattan .
Denise visited a little while I was in D.C. , but neither of my parents nor my baby sister ever came .
Then , in 2013 , my mother was diagnosed with dementia , and no one could really visit because her care was all-consuming .
While I would go home twice a year , usually once in the summer for my nephew ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Christmas , my family couldn ’ t really visit .
Even if they wanted to .
I was OK with this for the most part , even though I really wanted to share my East Coast life with them , because at least I got to see them twice a year .
But before 2020 turned to a coronavirus-fueled apocalyptic nightmare , my father was planning to try to visit for the first time , and Denise was coming , or was supposed to come , last week .
Now I don ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ them again .
Or more specifically , when I will see my father again .
While both my sisters are relatively young and healthy , in their late 30s and mid-40s respectively , my father turned 78 in February .
I didn ’ t go home for his birthday because I usually don ’ t , as it is so close to my annual visit in December .
Now I wish I ’ d listened to my friend Audrey , who chastised me for not going to see him .
I honestly thought @ @ @ @ @ @ @ July , but with every passing day , as this crisis worsens and more people die , this seems less and less likely .
My father is healthy .
But he is also kind of alone .
While he does have my sisters and nephew to check in on him weekly , he has outlived both his brothers , both his parents , all his aunts and uncles , and his wife of more than 40 years .
Basically all the family he was closest to who aren ’ t his kids are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ still sees himself as having a lot to live for , so he ’ s always happy when we talk , even if all we mostly talk about is the past .
But as this lost month becomes two lost months and as things keep getting canceled—from events to flights—and I have my own fears about contracting this disease ( I have asthma , a pre-existing condition that could make the lungs-attacking illness difficult or even deadly for me ) , I realize I probably can ’ t or won ’ t go @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and a vaccine is a year away .
My grandmother , my mother ’ s mother , is 92 and lives far away in Newport , Ark .
My father is 78 and is in St. Louis .
And things like next year aren ’ t necessarily promised for people like them .
When my father joked about possibly not coming to NYC this year it hit me hard because usually , I can just go see him , and I can ’ t .
And without a vaccine , it means I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Christmas this year , let alone this summer .
Of all the things we stand to lose this year , you can always make more money ; you can ideally always find another job , but you can ’ t get that time back .
We can ’ t get back the time we lost being unable to see each other or be together .
I ’ m grateful for my career , my job , my friends and family .
But as someone who was already kind of lonely before this crisis @ @ @ @ @ @ @ When can I see my family again ?
When can I see my friends again ?
And will I see them again , as nothing is promised ?
When will we all be more than faces on Zoom or voices over a phone ?
When will I be able to hug and kiss those I love again ?
How long do I have to live alone in isolation ?
I know I can go for a walk or go to the grocery store , but that doesn ’ t make me feel better @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pain inside .
I live alone .
And I ’ m going through this alone .
I try to stay busy and some days are better than others .
But today is a bad day .
Because I don ’ t know when or if I ’ ll see my dad .
I wish I ’ d had the forethought to have gone home when I had the chance , but it ’ s too late .
We ’ re all too afraid of getting sick to go anywhere , s o I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I write this to remind you to remember your friends who live alone , who don ’ t have family where they are .
I ’ m fortunate in that I have people who check on me daily , but not everyone is that lucky .
Sure , we ’ re alone together , but some of us are just alone .

When I call my father on the weekends, we talk about a myriad of things. How the family is doing, politics, food, my mental health, and…of course, the halcyon past when his beloved, comical aunts were still cracking jokes, when his kind mother was still doling out hugs, when he and his brothers were young and causing trouble, when my mother was still young and in her right mind, and when all these people were very, very much alive.
Basically, we reminisce about a past that is long gone for both of us. Of when I was a child and everything was “normal.” When my biggest problems were being afraid of the basement my mom had banished my sisters and me to play in because she couldn’t bear to watch my big sister Denise and me “tear up” our Barbies. I realize as I write this that this all sounds very bleak but the conversations are actually quite comforting. As long as you can remember someone, they’re never really gone. For a beautiful moment, they are just as vibrant and alive as we remembered, making us laugh or making us mad or filling our hearts with love.
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This weekend was not different from any other weekend, other than an off-handed comment from my father between the reminiscing and jokes that it might be a minute before he gets to NYC to see me. You see, my father has never been to visit me since I grew up and moved away. He had planned to see me once, when my mom was still healthy and I was in my 20s living in Texas, but I “surprised” him by marrying my future ex-husband who they didn’t care for, so he canceled the trip. Years later, I would move to California and my sister Denise would come once a year every year I was there, while my baby sister, Deidre, lived in Bakersfield with me for one summer. My mom, who helped me move out there, only came one other time in the five years I was there because she was afraid of flying. But my father never got to visit.
Years would pass, I would move home to St. Louis, then to Washington, D.C., then, finally, to Manhattan. Denise visited a little while I was in D.C., but neither of my parents nor my baby sister ever came. Then, in 2013, my mother was diagnosed with dementia, and no one could really visit because her care was all-consuming. While I would go home twice a year, usually once in the summer for my nephew’s birthday and once in the winter for Christmas, my family couldn’t really visit. Even if they wanted to. I was OK with this for the most part, even though I really wanted to share my East Coast life with them, because at least I got to see them twice a year. But before 2020 turned to a coronavirus-fueled apocalyptic nightmare, my father was planning to try to visit for the first time, and Denise was coming, or was supposed to come, last week.
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Now I don’t know when I’ll see them again. Or more specifically, when I will see my father again.
While both my sisters are relatively young and healthy, in their late 30s and mid-40s respectively, my father turned 78 in February. I didn’t go home for his birthday because I usually don’t, as it is so close to my annual visit in December. Now I wish I’d listened to my friend Audrey, who chastised me for not going to see him. I honestly thought I’d just see him in July, but with every passing day, as this crisis worsens and more people die, this seems less and less likely.
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My father is healthy. But he is also kind of alone. While he does have my sisters and nephew to check in on him weekly, he has outlived both his brothers, both his parents, all his aunts and uncles, and his wife of more than 40 years. Basically all the family he was closest to who aren’t his kids are gone. But he is resilient and still sees himself as having a lot to live for, so he’s always happy when we talk, even if all we mostly talk about is the past. But as this lost month becomes two lost months and as things keep getting canceled—from events to flights—and I have my own fears about contracting this disease (I have asthma, a pre-existing condition that could make the lungs-attacking illness difficult or even deadly for me), I realize I probably can’t or won’t go anywhere until there is a vaccine, and a vaccine is a year away.
My grandmother, my mother’s mother, is 92 and lives far away in Newport, Ark. My father is 78 and is in St. Louis. And things like next year aren’t necessarily promised for people like them. When my father joked about possibly not coming to NYC this year it hit me hard because usually, I can just go see him, and I can’t. And without a vaccine, it means I probably can’t go home for Christmas this year, let alone this summer. Of all the things we stand to lose this year, you can always make more money; you can ideally always find another job, but you can’t get that time back. We can’t get back the time we lost being unable to see each other or be together. I’m grateful for my career, my job, my friends and family. But as someone who was already kind of lonely before this crisis happened, this is especially devastating.
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When can I see my family again? When can I see my friends again? And will I see them again, as nothing is promised? When will we all be more than faces on Zoom or voices over a phone? When will I be able to hug and kiss those I love again? How long do I have to live alone in isolation? I know I can go for a walk or go to the grocery store, but that doesn’t make me feel better. It doesn’t abate this pain inside. I live alone. And I’m going through this alone. I try to stay busy and some days are better than others. But today is a bad day. Because I don’t know when or if I’ll see my dad. I wish I’d had the forethought to have gone home when I had the chance, but it’s too late. We’re all too afraid of getting sick to go anywhere, s o I have to tough it out. But I write this to remind you to remember your friends who live alone, who don’t have family where they are. I’m fortunate in that I have people who check on me daily, but not everyone is that lucky. Sure, we’re alone together, but some of us are just alone.


theroot--2020-04-25--Oprah Winfrey Surprised Ron Clark Academy Educators With a Guest Appearance in Their Online Conferen

Oprah Winfrey Surprised Ron Clark Academy Educators With a Guest Appearance in Their Online Conference Call

Imagine being in an online meeting with colleagues and other professionals and not expecting anything spectacular to happen during this meeting of minds when suddenly , BOOM—Oprah Winfrey appears on your screen with words of encouragement .
This was what educators for Atlanta ’ s Ron Clark Academy experienced during a conference call on Friday .
WSV-TV 2 reports that nearly 18,000 people joined the Ron Clark Academy Facebook Live session hosted by the school ’ s founder , Ron Clark .
It was a meeting for teachers and homeschooling parents to build together , advise each other and sharpen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and to give tips on adjusting to conditions under the coronavirus pandemic .
A few minutes into the meeting , Clark introduced his special guest .
“ I love teachers , and I think throughout the world a lot of people are appreciating teachers differently now than ever before , ” Winfrey said to thousands of surprised listeners .
“ Because they ’ re having to sit at home and do it themselves , they recognize what you have been doing all along.
” Winfrey also shared a story about one of her @ @ @ @ @ @ @ first to recognize her potential .
“ A teacher saved my life , Mrs. Duncan in the fourth grade ... she was the first person I thought really saw me , and I can tell that you ’ re doing the same thing with your students , ” Winfrey said .
Winfrey touched educators with words of praise saying , “ I just continue to applaud outstanding , extraordinary , magnified , and magnificent work that you do at RCA.
” This isn ’ t the first time Oprah has blessed Ron Clark @ @ @ @ @ @ @ $ 5 million to the school , which is nearly 94 percent black , during its 10- year anniversary celebration .
“ I love this school !
” Winfrey said at the time .
“ It ’ s hard to believe it ’ s been 10 years .
I was here for the first graduation .
I wanted to be here to actually mark this moment in time .
What it takes to build a school over 10 years , I know.
” Winfrey left Friday ’ s online meeting saying , “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , God bless you too , Ms. Winfrey .

Zack Linly on The Grapevine, shared by Zack Linly to The Root

Imagine being in an online meeting with colleagues and other professionals and not expecting anything spectacular to happen during this meeting of minds when suddenly, BOOM—Oprah Winfrey appears on your screen with words of encouragement. This was what educators for Atlanta’s Ron Clark Academy experienced during a conference call on Friday.
WSV-TV 2 reports that nearly 18,000 people joined the Ron Clark Academy Facebook Live session hosted by the school’s founder, Ron Clark. It was a meeting for teachers and homeschooling parents to build together, advise each other and sharpen each other’s skillset as educators and to give tips on adjusting to conditions under the coronavirus pandemic. A few minutes into the meeting, Clark introduced his special guest.
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“I love teachers, and I think throughout the world a lot of people are appreciating teachers differently now than ever before,” Winfrey said to thousands of surprised listeners. “Because they’re having to sit at home and do it themselves, they recognize what you have been doing all along.”
Winfrey also shared a story about one of her teachers who she credits with being the first to recognize her potential.
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“A teacher saved my life, Mrs. Duncan in the fourth grade ... she was the first person I thought really saw me, and I can tell that you’re doing the same thing with your students,” Winfrey said.
Winfrey touched educators with words of praise saying, “I just continue to applaud outstanding, extraordinary, magnified, and magnificent work that you do at RCA.”
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This isn’t the first time Oprah has blessed Ron Clark Academy. In 2017, she donated $5 million to the school, which is nearly 94 percent black, during its 10- year anniversary celebration.
“I love this school!” Winfrey said at the time. “It’s hard to believe it’s been 10 years. I was here for the first graduation. I wanted to be here to actually mark this moment in time. What it takes to build a school over 10 years, I know.”
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Winfrey left Friday’s online meeting saying, “God bless all the teachers.”
Well, God bless you too, Ms. Winfrey.


theroot--2020-04-20--Sephora Has Some Deals to Keep You Looking Glamorous, Even While You're Stuck at Home

The best Sephora deals and promo codes for April 2020 are here .
The stores might be closed , but Sephora ’ s online shop keeps pumping out the deals .
Whether you ’ re in the market for cosmetics , lotion , accessories , or more , chances are good that you ’ ll find something great at Sephora .
We ’ ve collected some of Sephora ’ s best online deals below , and if you ’ ll get free shipping on everything by using the code FREESHIP at checkout ( no minimum ) .
Be sure to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ promotions before completing your order , as well !
CBD has a number of beneficial health uses , and when it comes to skincare , it can help soothe pain and irritation .
Lord Jones ’ High CBD Formula Body Lotion provides a cooling sensation too , making it seem like a particularly pleasant thing to rub on your body .
It ’ s down from $ 60 right now .
• None Buy it now for $ 42 Rihanna ’ s beauty brand is one of the hottest in cosmetics today , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ its bold lip colors for 30 % off right now at Sephora .
The Fenty Beauty Poutsicle Juicy Satin Lipstick comes in shades like Motorboat , Alpha Doll , and Go Deep , so… have fun with it , yeah ?
• None Buy it now for $ 14 Style on the go with the T3 Featherweight Compact Folding Hair Dryer .
Whether on vacation or perhaps dealing with a small bathroom , this fold-up hair dryer still gets the job done .
It ’ s $ 30 off the list price right @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a versatile dryer that can go anywhere .
• None Buy it now for $ 120 Given that we ’ re all stuck at home , what better time than now to fire up Netflix and watch a charming teen rom-com ?
Sephora teamed with Netflix to produce some items inspired by the latest To All the Boys… movie , and this scrunchie set lets you add a flashy bit of style .
• None Buy it now for $ 9 This is an absolute steal .
Her products are famously great and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ beautiful blush and highlighter pallet that work for a lot of skin tones .
I recommend the Darya set only because I am a bit fairer .
I ’ ve always liked this line but have to wait for a sale to truly enjoy .
Now is that time .
• None Buy it now for $ 45 As someone who has tried a bunch of charcoal products , I can say they really do make a difference in your complexion .
Perfect to use at morning or at night and truly livens @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Glamglow is another amazing skin care company that is pricey but produces major results .
This sale is a must .
• None Buy it now for $ 38 It ’ s easy to let things slide when you ’ re not leaving the house much ( if at all ) , but you can do a few small things to continue to take care of yourself .
Sephora ’ s Mask Stick is an easy , affordable way to keep your face feeling fresh , and they ’ re half-off at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Bamboo , and Spirulina varieties are still available as of this writing .
• None Buy it now for $ 4 If you love bananas as much as we do , then you ’ ll want to jump on the Hats Off to Bananas Pre-Makeup Skincare Set .
Not only do you get Olehenriksen ’ s Banana Bright Eye Crème and Banana Bright Face Primer , but you also get a super cute hat with a bunch of bananas on it .
Win-win-win , we say… and down from $ 72 , no @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for $ 50 Kat Von D ’ s KVD Vegan Beauty released this enticing Alchemist Holographic Palette , which features four shades for your eyes , lips , and face that glisten with “ double dimension technology.
” The larger set gives you Emerald ( green ) , Saphyre ( blue ) , Amethyst ( ultra-violet ) , and Opal ( pink ) , while a separate single $ 7 item has Aquamarine ( teal ) .
• None Buy it now for $ 10 If reducing pores and fine lines is your @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Tatcha is an absolutely brilliant beauty company from Japan .
I ’ m very big fan of their Serum Stick , which helps after a few late nights for the under eyes if you know what I mean .
The elite option in this best seller ’ s bundle is the Deep Cleanse gel that is great for keeping pores clean and hydrating the skin .
Tatcha has a killer line top-to-bottom so this is the perfect set to try a few of them out if you ’ re on a budget @ @ @ @ @ @ @ $ 60 If you ’ ve been waiting to try or replenish your Cover FX these glitter drops are the bomb .
With a variety of options in this pack it really caters to a range of tones but also allows you to play with different looks .
Everyone does highlighter different so you might discover a new favorite .
I can say that the 3 Glitter Drops work for almost anyone but you be the judge .
This is an exceptional deal for what you are getting .
• None Buy it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have some beautiful palettes to play with , you ’ ll need a good set of brushes .
Sephora ’ s brand is as good as any luxury company ’ s , complete with black soft touch handles .
These 10 brushes can help you curate any image you are wishing to achieve .
They are tucked away in black faux leather roll to keep them safe for travel and transport .
• None Buy it now for $ 70 Nothing warms the heart or raises the spirits like a delightful scent , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ should do the trick .
Plus , you ’ re helping saving bees since they partnered with BEEautiful Earth .
This also mean the packaging is sustainable and all the ingredients are farm sourced in eco-concious packaging .
They live up to the Clean name in every way .
Smell wonderful with these 5 fragrances and save the planet .
Win-Win .
Pro Tip : Warm Cotton is where it is at .
• None Buy it now for $ 48 Charlotte Tilbury is a legendary British brand and this is a great @ @ @ @ @ @ @ dark eye issues .
Eye Rescue is the cure for a few sleepless nights and helps turn back that clock as well .
Slap the Night Cream on before bed and you ’ re unstoppable .
This three-piece set is has to be in your cart .
• None Buy it now for $ 75

Sheilah Villari and Andrew Hayward on Kinja Deals, shared by Elizabeth Henges to The Root

Featured Deal: Give Me Some Shine Lip Gloss + Plumper Set | $24
The best Sephora deals and promo codes for December 2021 are here.
Looking for the best deals on Fenty Beauty, Marc Jacobs Beauty, M, and other cosmetics brands? Sephora has you covered with its online deals, which include massive discounts on those brands and others.
Snag free shipping on all orders by using the promo code: FREESHIP.
Give your skin a little rest and relaxation with the Fenty Skin Start’r Set. This set comes with a travel-size mini makeup remover-cleanser, a toner-serum, and a sunscreen-moisturizer. These products target dark spots, finelines, wrinkles, and dryness. These products are vegan and come in recyclable packaging, so you can do right by your skin and help the environment.
Versatile and multi-faceted, the Season to Sparkle 8 Piece Makeup Brush Set will be the inspiration behind all your holiday looks. Designed just for the Sephora collection each brush is vegan, cruelty-free, so use without guilt. You even get a handy pouch to keep them clean between uses. This is a great set to gift a beauty beginner. Plus, it’s 40% off.
Get the most kissable lips with the Give Me Some Shine Lip Gloss + Plumper Set. This set comes with an array of colors from top Sephora brands.
This included Fenty, Huda Beauty, Milk, NARS, and Pat McGrath.These sets are an awesome way to get to know brands you’ve been curious about. They’re super wearable and accessible to the plumping novice. Note that they’re also cruelty-free, and the hues will complement any skin tone.
Looking for a great waterproof, liquid-gel eyeliner at a discounted price? Available in four colors, this product is available in a high shine and metallic finish, based on your preference. As a bonus, this eyeliner is free of sulfates and parabens, along with other harmful ingredients like formaldehyde.
Massage a handful of the Coco Rose Coconut Oil Body Polish into your skin to soften and hydrate dry, rough patches and save your body this winter. The Soft Glow Body Oil will leave your body feeling silky-smooth and luminous. The perfect sparkle to carry you into the new year. Herbivore knows what they’re doing.
Jouer Cosmetics’ bestseller includes a brilliant highlighter, matte bronzer, and attractive matte and shimmer blush colors in this palette. This cruelty-free, vegan, and gluten-free item is the touch color you were looking for. These soft beautiful hues are inspired by Marie-Antoinette and Versailles. All work together in glorious French fashion.
Get your glow on for a discounted price with this Holographic Stick from Milk Makeup. This stick is made with a buildable cream texture to give your skin a dewy finish with a weightless feel. I mean, who doesn’t need a little glitter in their life?
For me, concealer is an essential step in my makeup routine. Marc Jacobs Beauty Accomplice Concealer & Touch-Up Stick is super creamy and perfect for those of us who often do our makeup on-the-go. This stick is perfect for delivering natural, even skin tone, hiding dark circles, blemishes, and all your other little imperfections.
Note that you have 8 different options of shades, all at the same 50% off discount.
This glow kit has four metallic powder highlighters to make any look pop. Instantly add radiance to your skin. They are blendable and the tones work harmoniously together. Wear them separately on the eyes and body, this palette was made for experimenting. Shine bright at any party.
If you’re looking for the best in skincare Shiseido is for you. This three-piece bundle includes the company’s best sellers. The Urban Environment SPF 42 is oil-free and ideal for fun in the sun. It’s lightweight and works perfectly even under makeup. The Ultimune Serum protects against daily damage and premature aging, leaving your skin hydrated and smooth. The Benefiance Wrinkle Eye Cream completes the routine by significantly reducing wrinkles after a few uses. This kit is great for all skin types.
Save $5 Shiseido Bestsellers Urban SPF Set Defends against visible daily damage and premature aging.
The Benefiance Wrinkle Smoothing Eye Cream visibly minimizes wrinkles in as little as one week. Buy for $43 at Sephora
This story was originally published by Sheilah Villari on 03/19/2020 and updated with new information on 12/20/2021.


theroot--2020-04-25--Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms Got a Racist Text Just Because She Doesn't Want More Georgians Dying From

Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms Got a Racist Text Just Because She Doesn't Want More Georgians Dying From COVID-19

It doesn ’ t take much for black people to prompt attacks by racists .
All Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms wants is to keep her citizens safe during an ongoing global pandemic .
That ’ s it .
She decided it was better that the people of Atlanta stay as healthy as possible rather than risk lives in an effort to save Georgia ’ s economy , which is why she publicly criticized Gov .
Brian Kemp ’ s plan to reopen non-essential businesses in Georgia .
For that , she was told “ Shut up , nigger ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Wednesday , Bottoms tweeted a screenshot of a text that read , “ Nigger , just shut up and RE-OPEN ATLANTA !
” She included a caption with the tweet that read “ With my daughter looking over my shoulder , I received this message on my phone .
I pray for you.
” The caption included a paraphrased quote from Martin Luther King ’ s “ Letter From Birmingham ’ s Jail ” in which he said , “ Nothing in all the world is more dangerous than sincere ignorance and conscientious @ @ @ @ @ @ @ frighten me , but it saddened me that in 2020 this is what we ’ re still facing in America , ” Bottoms told MSNBC .
On Monday , Kemp announced plans to start reopening businesses that were shut down due to the coronavirus outbreak such as gyms , movie theaters , barbershops and nail salons .
Bottoms said in an interview that she had no idea that he was going to make his announcement and she expressed concerns that the decision was premature because , according to her information , COVID-19 cases @ @ @ @ @ @ @ In an interview with CNN , she said , “ I have searched my head and my heart on this and I am at a loss as to what the governor is basing this decision on.
” She said she is considering legal options for Atlanta , which she said is “ not out of the woods yet.
” “ You have to live to fight another day .
And you have to be able to be amongst the living to be able to recover , ” she said .
According to CNN @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Carr is investigating the text .
Carr said he was very concerned about the “ hateful message ” and requested his office “ immediately investigate ” to ensure it wasn ’ t sent from a state employee .
Bottoms told CNN that she would not be intimidated and that she would not stop speaking up .
“ We are not cowards .
Cowards don ’ t run for office , ” she said .

It doesn’t take much for black people to prompt attacks by racists. All Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms wants is to keep her citizens safe during an ongoing global pandemic. That’s it. She decided it was better that the people of Atlanta stay as healthy as possible rather than risk lives in an effort to save Georgia’s economy, which is why she publicly criticized Gov. Brian Kemp’s plan to reopen non-essential businesses in Georgia. For that, she was told “Shut up, nigger” by an angry anonymous texter.
On Wednesday, Bottoms tweeted a screenshot of a text that read, “Nigger, just shut up and RE-OPEN ATLANTA!” She included a caption with the tweet that read “With my daughter looking over my shoulder, I received this message on my phone. I pray for you.” The caption included a paraphrased quote from Martin Luther King’s “Letter From Birmingham’s Jail” in which he said, “Nothing in all the world is more dangerous than sincere ignorance and conscientious stupidity.”
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“It doesn’t frighten me, but it saddened me that in 2020 this is what we’re still facing in America,” Bottoms told MSNBC.
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On Monday, Kemp announced plans to start reopening businesses that were shut down due to the coronavirus outbreak such as gyms, movie theaters, barbershops and nail salons. Bottoms said in an interview that she had no idea that he was going to make his announcement and she expressed concerns that the decision was premature because, according to her information, COVID-19 cases were on the rise in Georgia. In an interview with CNN, she said, “I have searched my head and my heart on this and I am at a loss as to what the governor is basing this decision on.”
She said she is considering legal options for Atlanta, which she said is “not out of the woods yet.”
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“You have to live to fight another day. And you have to be able to be amongst the living to be able to recover,” she said.
According to CNN, Georgia A ttorney G eneral Chris Carr is investigating the text. Carr said he was very concerned about the “hateful message” and requested his office “immediately investigate” to ensure it wasn’t sent from a state employee.
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Bottoms told CNN that she would not be intimidated and that she would not stop speaking up.
“We are not cowards. Cowards don’t run for office,” she said.


theroot--2020-04-25--2 Black Men Released From Prison After Serving Over 17 Years for a Crime They Say They Didn't Commit

Two Detroit-area black men locked up for the better part of 20 years for crimes they say they didn ’ t commit were recently freed from prison after the investigative officer was found to have allegedly coerced witnesses into lying about what they saw .
According to Detroit Free Press , 37-year-old Kevin Harrington and 49-year-old George Clark were convicted for the 2002 killing of Michael Martin in Inkster , Mich .
Both men were released from prison straight into quarantine this month .
Clark was freed from the Lakeland Correctional Facility on bond earlier this month because of concerns @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the facility which has had at least 208 coronavirus cases and eight deaths .
Harrington , who spent 17 and a half years in lockup , walked out of Macomb Correctional Facility Tuesday after a federal judge both men ’ s convictions tossed in the “ interests of justice.
” Both men had been sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole .
So , what the hell happened ?
Well , Clark and Harrington were both convicted for fatally shooting Martin—a crime both men insist they were innocent of since @ @ @ @ @ @ @ trials .
The first ended in a verdict being overturned , two ended with hung juries and the last ended in him being convicted of first-degree murder .
He was offered a 17-year plea deal , which he refused .
“ My mother always told me something when I was a child : ‘ If you don ’ t stand for something , you ’ ll fall for anything , ’ ” Harrington , who was 20 at the time of his arrest , said .
“ That was something that I could @ @ @ @ @ @ @ innocent of this crime.
” The Wayne County Prosecutor ’ s Office Conviction Integrity Unit spent six months investigating the case and “ found a very troubling pattern of behavior from the original lead detective that involved threatening and coercing a number of witnesses , ” according to Maria Miller , a spokeswoman for the office , the Free Press notes .
“ This is an unbelievable case of police misconduct , ” attorney and assistant director of the Michigan Innocence Clinic Imran Syed said .
“ The only witness against him was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and she actually recanted at all of the trials.
” Syed had been working on Harrington ’ s case since 2009 when he was a law student .
He said that Inkster police threatened to take away the witness ’ children if she didn ’ t say what police wanted her to say and that details of her account were disputed by other witnesses .
And she wasn ’ t the only one .
In 2016 , a new witness came forward .
According to an affidavit , this person said she saw @ @ @ @ @ @ @ victim when she rolled up in her car to buy marijuana , then heard two gunshots as she drove away .
She went back later that morning and learned Martin had been killed , the document said .
The witness said she knew the wrong man had been arrested but didn ’ t tell police because she was scared for her family ’ s safety .
She came forward later after talking with her pastor .
Officials with the Conviction Integrity Unit uncovered new evidence during its investigation .
They interviewed a woman @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s death and said she was with Clark at the time of the murder , according to court documents .
In the end , there was no physical evidence that Clark or Harrington had anything to do with Martin ’ s shooting and multiple witnesses identified another man as the shooter—and that man is now dead .
Miller said they won ’ t be retried .
“ We have not reached any conclusion on actual innocence , ” she said .
“ The issues with the original lead detective were such that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the verdict.
” The lead detective ’ s name hasn ’ t been released , but Miller said the prosecutor ’ s office is recommending the Inkster Police Department have an outside law enforcement agency investigate his conduct .
Attorney Wolfgang Mueller is now representing both men and is in the process of filing lawsuits seeking $ 50,000 for each year the men were in prison under the state ’ s Wrongful Imprisonment Compensation Act .
As for Harrington and Clark , they ’ re happy to be able to see their families @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the justice system and a desire to help other wrongfully convicted people .
” I just want to help fix this criminal justice system , ” Harrington said .
Clark , who lost his mother two years after he was sent to prison , never gave up on himself .
“ I always just held on because I knew one day the truth would prevail , ” he said .

Two Detroit-area black men locked up for the better part of 20 years for crimes they say they didn’t commit were recently freed from prison after the investigative officer was found to have allegedly coerced witnesses into lying about what they saw.
According to Detroit Free Press, 37-year-old Kevin Harrington and 49-year-old George Clark were convicted for the 2002 killing of Michael Martin in Inkster, Mich . Both men were released from prison straight into quarantine this month.
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Clark was freed from the Lakeland Correctional Facility on bond earlier this month because of concerns about the spread of COVID -19 in the facility which has had at least 208 coronavirus cases and eight deaths. Harrington, who spent 17 and a half years in lockup, walked out of Macomb Correctional Facility Tuesday after a federal judge both men’s convictions tossed in the “interests of justice.” Both men had been sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole.
So, what the hell happened?
Well, Clark and Harrington were both convicted for fatally shooting Martin—a crime both men insist they were innocent of since 2002. Harrington actually had four separate trials. The first ended in a verdict being overturned, two ended with hung juries and the last ended in him being convicted of first-degree murder. He was offered a 17-year plea deal, which he refused.
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“My mother always told me something when I was a child: ‘If you don’t stand for something, you’ll fall for anything,’ ” Harrington, who was 20 at the time of his arrest, said. “That was something that I could never agree to knowing that I was innocent of this crime.”
The Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office Conviction Integrity Unit spent six months investigating the case and “found a very troubling pattern of behavior from the original lead detective that involved threatening and coercing a number of witnesses,” according to Maria Miller, a spokeswoman for the office, the Free Press notes .
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“This is an unbelievable case of police misconduct,” attorney and assistant director of the Michigan Innocence Clinic Imran Syed said. “The only witness against him was clearly coerced by the investigating officer … and she actually recanted at all of the trials.” Syed had been working on Harrington’s case since 2009 when he was a law student. He said that Inkster police threatened to take away the witness’ children if she didn’t say what police wanted her to say and that details of her account were disputed by other witnesses. And she wasn’t the only one.
From the Free Press :
In 2016, a new witness came forward. According to an affidavit, this person said she saw a man in an argument with the victim when she rolled up in her car to buy marijuana, then heard two gunshots as she drove away. She went back later that morning and learned Martin had been killed, the document said. The witness said she knew the wrong man had been arrested but didn’t tell police because she was scared for her family’s safety. She came forward later after talking with her pastor. Officials with the Conviction Integrity Unit uncovered new evidence during its investigation. They interviewed a woman who went to police shortly after Martin’s death and said she was with Clark at the time of the murder, according to court documents.
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In the end, there was no physical evidence that Clark or Harrington had anything to do with Martin’s shooting and multiple witnesses identified another man as the shooter—and that man is now dead. Miller said they won’t be retried.
“We have not reached any conclusion on actual innocence,” she said. “The issues with the original lead detective were such that the conduct materially impacted the integrity of the verdict.”
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The lead detective’s name hasn’t been released, but Miller said the prosecutor’s office is recommending the Inkster Police Department have an outside law enforcement agency investigate his conduct.
Attorney Wolfgang Mueller is now representing both men and is in the process of filing lawsuits seeking $50,000 for each year the men were in prison under the state’s Wrongful Imprisonment Compensation Act.
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As for Harrington and Clark, they’re happy to be able to see their families again and have both expressed disappointment in the justice system and a desire to help other wrongfully convicted people.
”I just want to help fix this criminal justice system,” Harrington said.
Clark, who lost his mother two years after he was sent to prison, never gave up on himself.
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“I always just held on because I knew one day the truth would prevail,” he said.


theroot--2020-04-26--Black Woman Dies From Coronavirus After Being Turned Away 4 Times From Hospital She Worked at for De

Black Woman Dies From Coronavirus After Being Turned Away 4 Times From Hospital She Worked at for Decades

The disproportionate number of black people who are dying from the coronavirus disease continues to grow .
Deborah Gatewood , a 63-year-old healthcare worker who lived and worked in Michigan , died earlier this month from COVID-19 complications .
Her daughter is now speaking out about what she describes as the “ disheartening ” treatment—or lack thereof—her mother got from the hospital she visited no less than four times before her death , seeking help that she ultimately did not receive .
Gatewood had worked at that same hospital for 31 years .
Gatewood drove herself to the Beaumont Hospital @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 18 , where she requested a test and was sent home .
“ They said she wasn ’ t severe enough and that they weren ’ t going to test her , ” said Kaila Corrothers , Gatewood ’ s only child .
“ They told her to just go home and rest.
” The next day , Gatewood went back to the hospital to try and get a test .
They acknowledged she was showing signs of COVID-19 , her daughter told Fox 2 news , but still only told her to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the end of March—after 2 more rebuffed visits to Beaumont Hospital—Gatewood was lying at home in bed unresponsive .
At that point Corrothers took her mother to another hospital , where she was finally tested for the coronavirus .
By then , Gatewood had developed bilateral pneumonia and had to be intubated .
Then her kidneys failed .
On April 20 , she died .
She was two years away from retirement .
“ She was gon na be the greatest grandmother-nanny that I needed her to be , ” her daughter told @ @ @ @ @ @ @ country and world grapples with this public health crisis and its accompanying mass sickness and death , systemic inequities and widespread biases rooted in white supremacy are leaving black people in America holding more than a fair fraction of the pain .
After Deborah Gatewood ’ s tragic death , Beaumont Hospital released a statement about its admission protocol : “ As patients come to Beaumont for care during this pandemic , we are doing everything we can to evaluate , triage and care for patients based on the information we know at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of any patient to COVID-19 or any other illness.
”

The disproportionate number of black people who are dying from the coronavirus disease continues to grow.
Deborah Gatewood, a 63-year-old healthcare worker who lived and worked in Michigan, died earlier this month from COVID-19 complications. Her daughter is now speaking out about what she describes as the “disheartening” treatment—or lack thereof—her mother got from the hospital she visited no less than four times before her death, seeking help that she ultimately did not receive. Gatewood had worked at that same hospital for 31 years.
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From NBC News:
Gatewood drove herself to the Beaumont Hospital emergency room in Farmington Hills on March 18, where she requested a test and was sent home. “They said she wasn’t severe enough and that they weren’t going to test her,” said Kaila Corrothers, Gatewood’s only child. “They told her to just go home and rest.”
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The next day, Gatewood went back to the hospital to try and get a test. They acknowledged she was showing signs of COVID-19, her daughter told Fox 2 news, but still only told her to take cough medicine and rest.
By the end of March—after 2 more rebuffed visits to Beaumont Hospital—Gatewood was lying at home in bed unresponsive. At that point Corrothers took her mother to another hospital, where she was finally tested for the coronavirus. By then, Gatewood had developed bilateral pneumonia and had to be intubated. Then her kidneys failed. On April 20, she died. She was two years away from retirement.
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“She was gonna be the greatest grandmother-nanny that I needed her to be,” her daughter told Fox 2 Detroit.
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While the whole country and world grapples with this public health crisis and its accompanying mass sickness and death, systemic inequities and widespread biases rooted in white supremacy are leaving black people in America holding more than a fair fraction of the pain.
After Deborah Gatewood’s tragic death, Beaumont Hospital released a statement about its admission protocol:
From Fox 2:


theroot--2020-04-26--Keep Your Drinks Cold Without The Melting With Half Off Steel Ice Cubes

Ice cubes are , of course , a great thing , but then they melt and water down your drink @ @ @ @ @ instead of normal ice cubes , grab these stainless steel cubes and keep your drink @ @ @ @ @ of them melting .
You can grab these half off for $ 15 if you @ @ @ @ @ checkout , and that ’ s a great price to save the integrity of your @ @

Elizabeth Henges on Kinja Deals, shared by Elizabeth Henges to The Root

Set of 8 Whiskey Stones | $15 | Amazon | Use code B2373AE3
Ice cubes are, of course, a great thing, but then they melt and water down your drink. That sucks. So instead of normal ice cubes, grab these stainless steel cubes and keep your drink cold without the unfortunate side-effect of them melting. You can grab these half off for $15 if you use the code B2373AE3 at checkout, and that’s a great price to save the integrity of your drinks.


theroot--2020-04-26--Calls to Poison Centers Across the Country Have Gone Up Since Trump Talked About Injecting Disinfect

Calls to Poison Centers Across the Country Have Gone Up Since Trump Talked About Injecting Disinfectant

Correlation doesn ’ t necessarily equal causation , but it ’ s hard to say we didn ’ t see this coming after the president ruminated out loud a few days ago on the usefulness of injecting disinfectant into the body as a kind of “ cleaning ” to get rid of the coronavirus .
Poison Centers across the country are now reporting that emergency calls to them have risen .
In New York City , the calls spiked in the 18 hour period immediately after the President ’ s insane and essentially suicidal recommendation was broadcast on Thursday .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ contacted city health authorities over fears that they had ingested bleach or other household cleaners in the 18 hours that followed President Trump ’ s bogus claim that injecting such products could cure coronavirus , the Daily News has learned .
The Poison Control Center , a subagency of the city ’ s Health Department , managed a total of 30 cases of possible exposure to disinfectants between 9 p.m. Thursday and 3 p.m. Friday , a spokesman said .
The last few days of calls are more than double the number the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the same period last year .
What ’ s more , many of the cases were “ specifically about exposure to Lysol , 10 cases specifically about bleach and 11 cases about exposures to other household cleaners , ” a NYC Health Department spokesperson told NPR News .
Similar reports are coming from other parts of the country .
“ There has been a significant increase in calls to the Illinois Poison Control Center in association with exposure to cleaning agents ( since Thursday ) , ” the Director of the Illinois Department @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said to reporters on Saturday .
Calls to the Poison Control Center in Georgia have also risen .
This predictable yet depressing consequence of the president ’ s latest unhinged comments illustrates the multiple risks the American public is facing during the COVID-19 pandemic .
At the head of the country is a man who clearly doesn ’ t care about the repercussions of what he says outside of its ability to ingrain his power , enrich his wallet or make him immune from responsibility .
What ’ s also devastating , not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ unwillingness from any “ adults in the room ” to stop Trump ’ s idiotic ideas from infecting a gullible public desperate for national leadership during this crisis .
While acknowledging the role of personal responsibility—since adults of sound mind should already know not to gargle with BLEACH—it is still incredible that the president of the United States continues to be given a daily platform for promoting things that are objectively dangerous to people ’ s health in the midst of a public health emergency .
Then again , some people in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ dystopia we ’ re living in “ exciting ” : Though Trump has since tried to walk back his remarks by claiming they were sarcastic , they weren ’ t funny either .
Please consider passing along this message to anyone who may be considering taking medical advice from a president with no background in medicine ( or much of anything else except grifting ) :

Correlation doesn’t necessarily equal causation, but it’s hard to say we didn’t see this coming after the president ruminated out loud a few days ago on the usefulness of injecting disinfectant into the body as a kind of “cleaning” to get rid of the coronavirus.
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Poison Centers across the country are now reporting that emergency calls to them have risen.
In New York City, the calls spiked in the 18 hour period immediately after the President’s insane and essentially suicidal recommendation was broadcast on Thursday.
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According to NY Daily News:
An unusually high number of New Yorkers contacted city health authorities over fears that they had ingested bleach or other household cleaners in the 18 hours that followed President Trump’s bogus claim that injecting such products could cure coronavirus, the Daily News has learned. The Poison Control Center, a subagency of the city’s Health Department, managed a total of 30 cases of possible exposure to disinfectants between 9 p.m. Thursday and 3 p.m. Friday, a spokesman said.
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The last few days of calls are more than double the number the NYC Poison Center says it received during the same period last year. What’s more, many of the cases were “specifically about exposure to Lysol, 10 cases specifically about bleach and 11 cases about exposures to other household cleaners,” a NYC Health Department spokesperson told NPR News.
Similar reports are coming from other parts of the country.
“There has been a significant increase in calls to the Illinois Poison Control Center in association with exposure to cleaning agents (since Thursday),” the Director of the Illinois Department of Public Health, Dr. Ngozi Ezike said to reporters on Saturday.
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From NBC 5 Chicago:
“Ezike cited several examples of what residents have reported doing in recent days, including use of a detergent solution for a sinus rinse and gargling with a mixture of bleach and mouthwash. The doctor advised Illinois residents not to try home remedies to cure or treat the virus, including those that “involve ingesting cleaners or disinfectants.”
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Calls to the Poison Control Center in Georgia have also risen.
This predictable yet depressing consequence of the president’s latest unhinged comments illustrates the multiple risks the American public is facing during the COVID-19 pandemic. At the head of the country is a man who clearly doesn’t care about the repercussions of what he says outside of its ability to ingrain his power, enrich his wallet or make him immune from responsibility.
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What’s also devastating, not to mention dangerous, is the continuing unwillingness from any “adults in the room” to stop Trump’s idiotic ideas from infecting a gullible public desperate for national leadership during this crisis.
While acknowledging the role of personal responsibility—since adults of sound mind should already know not to gargle with BLEACH—it is still incredible that the president of the United States continues to be given a daily platform for promoting things that are objectively dangerous to people’s health in the midst of a public health emergency.
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Then again, some people in the media—like this MSNBC analyst—seem to find the dystopia we’re living in “exciting”:
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Though Trump has since tried to walk back his remarks by claiming they were sarcastic, they weren’t funny either.
Please consider passing along this message to anyone who may be considering taking medical advice from a president with no background in medicine (or much of anything else except grifting):
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Don’t do it.


theroot--2020-04-26--Michigan State Senator Wears Confederate Flag Mask, Then Denies and Later Apologizes for Wearing Sai

Michigan State Senator Wears Confederate Flag Mask, Then Denies and Later Apologizes for Wearing Said Mask

I don ’ t know everything about the racist history of America .
But tell me if I have my facts wrong when I say that Michigan state was not part of the Confederacy .
Because based on the recent behavior of a Michigan state senator , anyone could be forgiven for thinking differently .
On Friday , WLNS-TV in Lansing , Michigan reported that State Sen. Dale Zorn showed up for a vote at the state ’ s capitol wearing a mask emblazoned with the recognizable design of that flag favored by white supremacists presently and throughout hisory .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ s first reaction to the controversy he courted with his own actions was to throw his wife under the bus .
With the characteristic cowardice that often accompanies behavior that is racist , Zorn then pivoted to some B.S .
to justify what he was doing by wearing that mask : Maybe the mitten-shaped state did play a role in the Confederate Army during the civil war that spelled an end for the American institution of slavery .
Or maybe Dale Zorn is just racist .
By Saturday , the state senator took @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s now calling an “ error in judgment.
” Though Zorn proudly describes himself as having 30 years of public service in his Twitter bio , we ’ re supposed to believe he ’ s still ignorant of what the Confederate flag represents—even though he chose to decorate his whole damn face with it .
While he ’ s now “ learning from this episode , ” I ’ m still left grappling with the question of why an elected official would see a public health crisis unfolding and decide to respond @ @ @ @ @ @ @ again , I know enough about U.S. history to only ask that question rhetorically .

I don’t know everything about the racist history of America. But tell me if I have my facts wrong when I say that Michigan state was not part of the Confederacy. Because based on the recent behavior of a Michigan state senator, anyone could be forgiven for thinking differently.
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On Friday, WLNS-TV in Lansing, Michigan reported that State Sen. Dale Zorn showed up for a vote at the state’s capitol wearing a mask emblazoned with the recognizable design of that flag favored by white supremacists presently and throughout hisory.
In typical Republican fashion, Zorn’s first reaction to the controversy he courted with his own actions was to throw his wife under the bus.
“It wasn’t a Confederate flag, it was a mask my wife made for me,” he told WLNS-TV. “She wanted me to wear it today, so I did. I told [her] it probably will raise some eyebrows, but it was not a Confederate flag.”
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With the characteristic cowardice that often accompanies behavior that is racist, Zorn then pivoted to some B.S. to justify what he was doing by wearing that mask:
“Even if it was a Confederate flag, you know, we should be talking about teaching our national history in schools, and that’s part of our national history.”
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Maybe the mitten-shaped state did play a role in the Confederate Army during the civil war that spelled an end for the American institution of slavery.
Or maybe Dale Zorn is just racist.
By Saturday, the state senator took to Twitter to apologize for what he’s now calling an “error in judgment.”
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Though Zorn proudly describes himself as having 30 years of public service in his Twitter bio, we’re supposed to believe he’s still ignorant of what the Confederate flag represents—even though he chose to decorate his whole damn face with it.
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While he’s now “learning from this episode,” I’m still left grappling with the question of why an elected official would see a public health crisis unfolding and decide to respond by dialing up the racism.
Then again, I know enough about U.S. history to only ask that question rhetorically.