theroot--2020-12-20--Uh-Oh: The U.K. Has a New Strain of COVID-19 and Is in Lockdown Again

I can ’ t lie y ’ all—I ’ m sick and tired of the global nightmare that is the coronavirus , which is why I ’ m not one of the people who feels squeamish about taking a COVID-19 vaccine .
But it sounds like coronavirus might not yet be sick of us .
Scientists in the United Kingdom announced this weekend that a new strain of COVID-19 is spreading , a revelation that prompted the government there to institute a new suite of lockdowns smack dab in the Christmas season .
Chief Medical Officer for England , Professor @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on Saturday that the new variant of COVID-19 “ can spread more quickly , ” and is to blame for the rapidly rising rate of cases in the South East of the country .
However , “ there is no current evidence to suggest the new strain causes a higher mortality rate or that it affects vaccines and treatments although urgent work is underway to confirm this , ” he said .
The U.K. rolled out its vaccine program last week , with over 350,000 thousand people vaccinated already , according to Sky @ @ @ @ @ @ @ new COVID-19 variant , which officials in the UK say is to blame for 60 % of new infections in London , has led the government to institute another lockdown and sharply limit people ’ s movements .
More than 16 million Britons are now required to stay at home after a lockdown came into force Sunday in London and southeast England and the government scrapped plans to relax rules on socializing at Christmas .
The measures to control the fast-spreading new variant of the virus forbid household mixing in those areas and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the rest of England .
Residents across the country were told to keep to their local areas , and extra police were being deployed at rail stations to stop people traveling out of London .
Countries in Europe are also already banning flights the U. K. as a precaution against transmission of this new COVID-19 variant , according to CNN .
But given the very connected nature of our world—as demonstrated by the far-reaching impact of coronavirus already —it wouldn ’ t be surprising to hear that the new strain has reached beyond @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Coronavirus appears to be the gift that keeps on giving , so I guess it ’ s appropriate that this news is coming just ahead of Christmas ?
Though at this point it ’ s also beginning to feel a little like Groundhog Day with the pandemic that never ends .

I can’t lie y’all—I’m sick and tired of the global nightmare that is the coronavirus, which is why I’m not one of the people who feels squeamish about taking a COVID-19 vaccine. But it sounds like coronavirus might not yet be sick of us.
Scientists in the United Kingdom announced this weekend that a new strain of COVID-19 is spreading, a revelation that prompted the government there to institute a new suite of lockdowns smack dab in the Christmas season.
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Chief Medical Officer for England, Professor Chris Whitty, said in a statement on Saturday that the new variant of COVID-19 “can spread more quickly,” and is to blame for the rapidly rising rate of cases in the South East of the country.
However, “there is no current evidence to suggest the new strain causes a higher mortality rate or that it affects vaccines and treatments although urgent work is underway to confirm this,” he said.
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The U.K. rolled out its vaccine program last week, with over 350,000 thousand people vaccinated already, according to Sky News.
But the emergence of the new COVID-19 variant, which officials in the UK say is to blame for 60% of new infections in London, has led the government to institute another lockdown and sharply limit people’s movements.
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From Bloomberg:
More than 16 million Britons are now required to stay at home after a lockdown came into force Sunday in London and southeast England and the government scrapped plans to relax rules on socializing at Christmas. The measures to control the fast-spreading new variant of the virus forbid household mixing in those areas and restrict socializing to just Christmas Day across the rest of England. Residents across the country were told to keep to their local areas, and extra police were being deployed at rail stations to stop people traveling out of London.
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Countries in Europe are also already banning flights the U. K. as a precaution against transmission of this new COVID-19 variant, according to CNN.
But given the very connected nature of our world—as demonstrated by the far-reaching impact of coronavirus already —it wouldn’t be surprising to hear that the new strain has reached beyond the U. K. ’s shores.
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Coronavirus appears to be the gift that keeps on giving, so I guess it’s appropriate that this news is coming just ahead of Christmas? Though at this point it’s also beginning to feel a little like Groundhog Day with the pandemic that never ends.


theroot--2020-12-22--The Mandalorian Season 2 Didn’t Need to Leave Me Crying in the Club Like That

It ’ s been about a full 24 hours since I finished the season 2 finale of The Mandalorian , and I haven ’ t been able to stop thinking about it .
I expected the finale to be a lot of things .
Mainly cool as all hell .
I didn ’ t expect it to be emotionally devastating and I damn sure didn ’ t expect it to do that either .
Now , for those who haven ’ t watched The Mandalorian season 2 dip now or forever hold your peace .
So now that it ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ building , HOLY FUCK WHAT ?
!
THE HERO OF THE NEW REPUBLIC ?
!
THE NEW HOPE HIMSELF IS IN THE BUILDING ?
!
Sorry , I just needed to get that out the way and I ’ m pretty certain you did , too .
The final 10 minutes of The Mandalorian season 2 is hands down some of the best Star Wars ever produced in any medium .
While season 1 was a fun romp through the galaxy , season 2 has felt like the series ’ s true ambitions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ secret that series creator Jo n Favreau and executive producer Dave Filoni are big fans of the Star Wars Extended Universe .
Growing up , the EU books and video games were the primary way I engaged with the Star Wars universe .
What made them cool was that they showcased different sides of the galaxy far , far away while still technically being considered canon .
High key , those stories are a large part of why I wanted to write in the first place .
When Disney announced that they were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , they also announced that the Extended Universe was no longer canon .
The Mandalorian season 2 has basically felt like Favreau and co. going “ Uh , yes the fuck it is.
” I had the sneaking suspicion this was the case when Ahsoka Tano ( portrayed excellently by Rosario Dawson ) showed up midseason and name dropped Grand Admiral Thrawn .
Now I ’ ve got a deadline , and I can easily go for hours on this shit , so if you don ’ t know who Thrawn is , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ post-Empire galaxy in the old canon .
If you ’ re desperate for a Star Wars fix read Timothy Zahn ’ s Thrawn trilogy .
It was more or less considered among fans as the original sequel trilogy before , you know , that happened .
Anyway , in that moment we had a character from the animated series name dropping one of the most legendary characters who hasn ’ t been seen in live-action Star Wars .
I thought that was going to be the big moment of the season , to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that little piece of integration , too .
I didn ’ t think they were gon na have Luke Skywalker roll up in an X-Wing , body an entire battalion of Imperial droids , and then interact with the main cast .
As a lifelong fan of this shit , I was in stunned silence .
Luke Skywalker , t he Mandalorian , Bo-Katan , and the fucking darksaber were in the same room together .
My fanboy joy was through the roof .
“ They did it !
They went full EU @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” I was yelling to myself .
Then the other shoe dropped .
I honestly thought the series finale of the show was going to be t he Mandalorian eventually finding Kyle Katarn or someone to take Baby Yoda and train him .
Never for the life of me did I think it was going to happen in season 2 , or that Luke goddamn Skywalker of all people would be the one to take him .
When t he Mandalorian removed his helmet to reassure Baby Yoda that he was going to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ t goodbye .
Y ’ all .
Let ’ s just say I ’ m happy I live on my own now because that cry was ugly .
In one moment , the show managed to bridge all the worlds of the Star Wars universe together and it did so in one of the most moving moments of the whole franchise .
We knew this was the ultimate end to Mando and Baby Yoda ’ s journey together , they told us that already .
Despite knowing that , it still hurt like @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the future of Star Wars following The Rise of Skywalker .
I honestly thought the franchise was afraid to try new , cool things after the divided reaction of The Last Jedi .
The Mandalorian season 2 single-handedly restored my faith and I am genuinely excited about Star Wars again .
I don ’ t know where Mando goes from here .
I can ’ t attempt to fathom a guess .
I do know that wherever he goes , I will be sure to follow .
This is the way , baby @ @ @ @ @ @

It’s been about a full 24 hours since I finished the season 2 finale of The Mandalorian, and I haven’t been able to stop thinking about it. I expected the finale to be a lot of things. Mainly cool as all hell. I didn’t expect it to be emotionally devastating and I damn sure didn’t expect it to do that either.
Now, for those who haven’t watched The Mandalorian season 2 dip now or forever hold your peace.
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I’ll wait.
So now that it’s just us real niggas in the building, HOLY FUCK WHAT?!
LUKE?! LUKE SKYWALKER?!
THE HERO OF THE NEW REPUBLIC?! THE NEW HOPE HIMSELF IS IN THE BUILDING?!
Sorry, I just needed to get that out the way and I’m pretty certain you did, too.
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The final 10 minutes of The Mandalorian season 2 is hands down some of the best Star Wars ever produced in any medium. While season 1 was a fun romp through the galaxy, season 2 has felt like the series’s true ambitions being realized.
It’s no secret that series creator Jo n Favreau and executive producer Dave Filoni are big fans of the Star Wars Extended Universe. Growing up, the EU books and video games were the primary way I engaged with the Star Wars universe. What made them cool was that they showcased different sides of the galaxy far, far away while still technically being considered canon.
Advertisement
High key, those stories are a large part of why I wanted to write in the first place.
When Disney announced that they were going to be making a sequel trilogy, they also announced that the Extended Universe was no longer canon. The Mandalorian season 2 has basically felt like Favreau and co. going “Uh, yes the fuck it is.”
Advertisement
I had the sneaking suspicion this was the case when Ahsoka Tano (portrayed excellently by Rosario Dawson) showed up midseason and name dropped Grand Admiral Thrawn.
Now I’ve got a deadline, and I can easily go for hours on this shit, so if you don’t know who Thrawn is, he was the big bad of the post-Empire galaxy in the old canon. If you’re desperate for a Star Wars fix read Timothy Zahn’s Thrawn trilogy. It was more or less considered among fans as the original sequel trilogy before, you know, that happened.
Advertisement
Anyway, in that moment we had a character from the animated series name dropping one of the most legendary characters who hasn’t been seen in live-action Star Wars. I thought that was going to be the big moment of the season, to be honest. I was satisfied with that little piece of integration, too.
I didn’t think they were gonna have Luke Skywalker roll up in an X-Wing, body an entire battalion of Imperial droids, and then interact with the main cast. As a lifelong fan of this shit, I was in stunned silence. Luke Skywalker, t he Mandalorian, Bo-Katan, and the fucking darksaber were in the same room together.
Advertisement
My fanboy joy was through the roof. “They did it! They went full EU! It’s all connected!” I was yelling to myself.
Then the other shoe dropped.
I honestly thought the series finale of the show was going to be t he Mandalorian eventually finding Kyle Katarn or someone to take Baby Yoda and train him. Never for the life of me did I think it was going to happen in season 2, or that Luke goddamn Skywalker of all people would be the one to take him.
Advertisement
When t he Mandalorian removed his helmet to reassure Baby Yoda that he was going to be OK , that this wasn’t goodbye. Y’all. Let’s just say I’m happy I live on my own now because that cry was ugly.
In one moment, the show managed to bridge all the worlds of the Star Wars universe together and it did so in one of the most moving moments of the whole franchise. We knew this was the ultimate end to Mando and Baby Yoda’s journey together, they told us that already. Despite knowing that, it still hurt like a bitch.
Advertisement
I was worried about the future of Star Wars following The Rise of Skywalker. I honestly thought the franchise was afraid to try new, cool things after the divided reaction of The Last Jedi. The Mandalorian season 2 single-handedly restored my faith and I am genuinely excited about Star Wars again.
I don’t know where Mando goes from here. I can’t attempt to fathom a guess. I do know that wherever he goes, I will be sure to follow. This is the way, baby. This is the way.


theroot--2020-12-22--Oregon Man Accused of Shouting Racial Slurs at Black FedEx Delivery Driver and Chasing Him Down With

Oregon Man Accused of Shouting Racial Slurs at Black FedEx Delivery Driver and Chasing Him Down With Pellet Gun

I want to say that 2020 really has white people wilding wilding , but really the actions of passionate racists typically aren ’ t terribly surprising in any given year .
In Aloha , Ore. , a Black FedEx worker said he found himself on the wrong side of a bigots rampage while he was trying to make deliveries Sunday , and a very angry white man has been arrested and accused of using racial slurs and chasing him down carrying a pellet gun .
KGW 8 reports that 68-year-old Rodney Bryant has been charged with bias crime in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ weapon and menacing following an altercation where he allegedly stood in the street shouting racial slurs at the delivery driver who was trying his best to mind his own business and drive away .
The FedEx driver was able to drive away but Bryant got in his car and pulled alongside the truck with his car door open , officials said .
The FedEx driver could see Bryant had a gun .
Bryant continued with the racial slurs and said he was “ not afraid to use it , ” referring to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to get away and call 911 .
Deputies arrested Bryant and recovered a pellet gun , which had no orange tip and was “ indistinguishable from a real gun , ” deputies said .
The driver , 22-year-old Akiel Horn , told KPTV Sunday that he is “ still in shock.
” “ I didn ’ t know it was a BB gun , ” he said .
“ I ’ m thinking it ’ s a real gun .
The first thing that popped in my mind was , ‘ oh , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ but then I said , ‘ no , I ’ m not ’ –he gave me enough room to get out , thank God , and I got out.
” Surprising to nobody Black , Bryant ’ s wife , Joyce Harmon , told reporters that she is “ totally stunned ” at her husband ’ s arrest and that he isn ’ t racist .
“ I knew that they had arrested him , which seemed crazy , and then when I saw the posting , I was just flabbergasted , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was concerned about the driver speeding , so he wanted to ask him to slow down and so he found him and did that , but the driver yelled at him and he yelled back.
” She also swears to Anything-but-Black Jesus that Bryant is “ a very loving person , ” and that he ’ s certainly “ not a bully , he ’ s not mean , he ’ s very kind-hearted.
” And because there literally is no situation involving race that white people won ’ t flip to make @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Harmon added : “ Now I ’ m just concerned with the social media posting and everything that now we ’ re going to start being harassed.
” Of course , Horn wasn ’ t hearing any of that white nonsense .
“ It shouldn ’ t be a reason where you ’ re calling me the n-word and or saying you ’ re not afraid to use your gun–there ’ s no explanation for that , ” he said .
According to the Washington County Sheriff ’ s Office , Bryant is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on $ 10,000 bail .

I want to say that 2020 really has white people wilding wilding, but really the actions of passionate racists typically aren’t terribly surprising in any given year.
In Aloha, Ore., a Black FedEx worker said he found himself on the wrong side of a bigots rampage while he was trying to make deliveries Sunday, and a very angry white man has been arrested and accused of using racial slurs and chasing him down carrying a pellet gun.
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KGW 8 reports that 68-year-old Rodney Bryant has been charged with bias crime in the first degree, unlawful use of a weapon and menacing following an altercation where he allegedly stood in the street shouting racial slurs at the delivery driver who was trying his best to mind his own business and drive away.
From KGW:
The FedEx driver was able to drive away but Bryant got in his car and pulled alongside the truck with his car door open, officials said. The FedEx driver could see Bryant had a gun. Bryant continued with the racial slurs and said he was “not afraid to use it,” referring to the gun. The FedEx driver was able to get away and call 911. Deputies arrested Bryant and recovered a pellet gun, which had no orange tip and was “indistinguishable from a real gun,” deputies said.
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The driver, 22-year-old Akiel Horn, told KPTV Sunday that he is “still in shock.”
“I didn’t know it was a BB gun,” he said. “I’m thinking it’s a real gun. The first thing that popped in my mind was, ‘oh, I’m going to die,’ but then I said, ‘no, I’m not’–he gave me enough room to get out, thank God, and I got out.”
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Surprising to nobody Black, Bryant’s wife, Joyce Harmon, told reporters that she is “totally stunned” at her husband’s arrest and that he isn’t racist.
“I knew that they had arrested him, which seemed crazy, and then when I saw the posting, I was just flabbergasted,” Harmon told KPTV. “He was concerned about the driver speeding, so he wanted to ask him to slow down and so he found him and did that, but the driver yelled at him and he yelled back.”
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She also swears to Anything-but-Black Jesus that Bryant is “a very loving person,” and that he’s certainly “not a bully, he’s not mean, he’s very kind-hearted.”
And because there literally is no situation involving race that white people won’t flip to make themselves out to be the victim, Harmon added: “Now I’m just concerned with the social media posting and everything that now we’re going to start being harassed.”
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Of course, Horn wasn’t hearing any of that white nonsense.
“It shouldn’t be a reason where you’re calling me the n-word and or saying you’re not afraid to use your gun–there’s no explanation for that,” he said.
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According to the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, Bryant is being held at the Washington County Jail on $10,000 bail.


theroot--2020-12-21--Next Round of Covid Vaccines to be Distributed to Senior Citizens and Essential Workers

Following a recommendation from a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention ( CDC ) advisory committee , the next batch of COVID-19 vaccines will be distributed to senior citizens and certain essential workers .
According to NBC News , the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices ( ACIP ) voted in favor of the recommendation on Sunday , with the CDC set to give final approval .
It ’ s been less than one week since the first batch—dubbed Phase 1A—began distribution among healthcare workers and people living in nursing homes .
Phase 1B , the next planned wave , will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ older as well as essential frontline workers .
What constitutes an “ essential frontline worker ” ?
Happy you asked .
Obviously , first responders ( cops , firefighters , EMTs ) make the cut but so do teachers , daycare workers , postal workers , as well as farmers and grocery store employees .
In total , Phase 1B consists of 49 million people .
There isn ’ t a clear timeline for when Phase 1B distributions will begin , as it ’ s dependent upon how long it takes for the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Now , you may be wondering why there is a tiered rollout to begin with .
Why isn ’ t it just being sent to Walgreens and CVS the same as the flu vaccines ?
Well , there simply isn ’ t enough of the vaccine to go around .
This scarcity has led to “ difficult choices ” being made according to Dr. Kathleen Dooling , an ACIP member .
The committee didn ’ t just determine who was eligible for each phase through an arbitrary process .
They consulted with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in addition to looking at the data , which has consistently shown that older people are more likely to suffer severe complications from the virus .
Even though the rates of coronavirus infection are highest among young adults , the illness is deadliest among older adults .
What ’ s more , “ over the course of this year , adults 75 years and older have accounted for 25 percent of Covid-19-associated hospitalizations , despite making up approximately 8 percent of the population , ” Dooling said .
Including front-line essential workers in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ most likely to be exposed to the virus are protected .
“ Front-line workers in particular are unable to work from home and have a high level of interaction with the public or others in the workplace , ” Dooling said .
One issue the committee has faced has been addressing the racial disparities stemming from the virus .
Black people have been disproportionately affected by the virus , with COVID-19 projected to be the third leading cause of death among Black people this year .
While the “ essential workers ” who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Phase 1B are more likely to be white , Phase 1C is expected to have more Black and non-white representation .
Speaking of Phase 1C , that group will consist of approximately 129 million people and will include adults aged 65-74 as well as people 16 and older who have underlying conditions that could result in severe complications .
Should you have a chronic illness , the committee recommends speaking to your doctor about eligibility for the vaccine .
In addition to those folks , Phase 1C will also include remaining essential workers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ safety , water management , banking , law , and several others .
The committee noted that these recommendations may need to be adjusted depending on the available supply of the vaccine .
So now that we got through all of that some of you may be thinking “ When do I get the vaccine ?
” Unfortunately , that ’ s still uncertain as the advisory committee has yet to address that planned rollout .
Clearly , it ’ s going to be a minute before everyone can have access to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more reason to be vigilant and take the necessary precautions throughout the winter .
Wash those hands , wear that mask , and please , please don ’ t gather with your family for the holidays .
Just saying , we all saw the post-Thanksgiving surge .
While I love “ Last Christmas ” by Wham !
the same as everybody else , I ’ d prefer you didn ’ t try to take the title literally .

Following a recommendation from a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advisory committee, the next batch of COVID-19 vaccines will be distributed to senior citizens and certain essential workers.
According to NBC News, the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) voted in favor of the recommendation on Sunday, with the CDC set to give final approval. It’s been less than one week since the first batch—dubbed Phase 1A—began distribution among healthcare workers and people living in nursing homes. Phase 1B, the next planned wave, will be distributed among people age 75 and older as well as essential frontline workers.
Advertisement
What constitutes an “essential frontline worker”? Happy you asked. Obviously, first responders (cops, firefighters, EMTs) make the cut but so do teachers, daycare workers, postal workers, as well as farmers and grocery store employees. In total, Phase 1B consists of 49 million people.
There isn’t a clear timeline for when Phase 1B distributions will begin, as it’s dependent upon how long it takes for the vaccinations in Phase 1A to take place.
Advertisement Advertisement
Now, you may be wondering why there is a tiered rollout to begin with. Why isn’t it just being sent to Walgreens and CVS the same as the flu vaccines? Well, there simply isn’t enough of the vaccine to go around. This scarcity has led to “difficult choices” being made according to Dr. Kathleen Dooling, an ACIP member.
The committee didn’t just determine who was eligible for each phase through an arbitrary process. They consulted with scientists, ethicists, and vaccination experts in addition to looking at the data, which has consistently shown that older people are more likely to suffer severe complications from the virus.
Advertisement
From NBC News:
Even though the rates of coronavirus infection are highest among young adults, the illness is deadliest among older adults. What’s more, “over the course of this year, adults 75 years and older have accounted for 25 percent of Covid-19-associated hospitalizations, despite making up approximately 8 percent of the population,” Dooling said. Including front-line essential workers in Phase 1B ensures that individuals who are most likely to be exposed to the virus are protected. “Front-line workers in particular are unable to work from home and have a high level of interaction with the public or others in the workplace,” Dooling said.
Advertisement
One issue the committee has faced has been addressing the racial disparities stemming from the virus. Black people have been disproportionately affected by the virus, with COVID-19 projected to be the third leading cause of death among Black people this year. While the “essential workers” who are eligible to receive the vaccine in Phase 1B are more likely to be white, Phase 1C is expected to have more Black and non-white representation.
Speaking of Phase 1C, that group will consist of approximately 129 million people and will include adults aged 65-74 as well as people 16 and older who have underlying conditions that could result in severe complications. Should you have a chronic illness, the committee recommends speaking to your doctor about eligibility for the vaccine.
Advertisement
In addition to those folks, Phase 1C will also include remaining essential workers in fields such as transportation, public safety, water management, banking, law, and several others. The committee noted that these recommendations may need to be adjusted depending on the available supply of the vaccine.
So now that we got through all of that some of you may be thinking “When do I get the vaccine?” Unfortunately, that’s still uncertain as the advisory committee has yet to address that planned rollout.
Advertisement
Clearly, it’s going to be a minute before everyone can have access to the vaccine.
That’s all the more reason to be vigilant and take the necessary precautions throughout the winter. Wash those hands, wear that mask, and please, please don’t gather with your family for the holidays.
Advertisement
Just saying, we all saw the post-Thanksgiving surge. While I love “Last Christmas” by Wham! the same as everybody else, I’d prefer you didn’t try to take the title literally.


theroot--2020-12-21--'If Black Lives Matter, What Are You Doing About Detroit Pistons Owner Tom Gores?': Advocacy Group C

'If Black Lives Matter, What Are You Doing About Detroit Pistons Owner Tom Gores?': Advocacy Group Calls Out NBA In Full-Page Newspaper Ad

If you cracked open the New York Times on Sunday , you might ’ ve been greeted by the following full-page ad : “ If Black Lives Matter , what are you doing about Detroit Pistons owner Tom Gores ?
” That ’ s a hell of a question .
And if you ask Worth Rises , a New York-based non-profit that would love nothing more than to completely dismantle the prison industrial complex , it ’ s also a question that deserves a straight-up answer .
ESPN reports that the advocacy group took out the ad because Gores is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ equity firm that owns “ one of the nation ’ s largest and most predatory prison telecom corporations : Securus.
” Securus rakes in more than $ 700 million annually by price-gouging families—disproportionately Black , Brown , and low-income—struggling to connect and support incarcerated loved ones .
The corporation routinely charges as much as $ 15 for a simple 15-minute phone call , and piles on sky-high deposit fees , among others .
Securus then pays correctional administrators and sheriffs millions in kickbacks every year .
As a result of Securus ’ predatory @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , one in three families goes into debt trying to stay connected to a loved one behind bars , and 87 percent of the people carrying that burden are women , largely women of color .
Worth Rises also alleges that under Gores ’ watch , Securus was exposed for sharing illegal location-tracking data with police and hit with a class-action lawsuit for artificially inflating prices for calls between incarcerated individuals and their loved ones .
Gores also refused to meet with families directly impacted by his business practices .
“ It ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their neighbors in this way , let alone at a time like this , ” the group wrote on their website .
“ He is a prison profiteer who has no place on the board of one of our nation ’ s favorite cultural institutions : the NBA .
Gores should not be allowed to whitewash his active exploitation of marginalized communities by simply asserting that Black Lives Matter , especially in the U.S. city with the highest percentage of Black residents .
Gores has to go !
” As for the ad @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Rises is calling for the NBA and other team owners to force Gores to sell the Pistons unless he divests from Securus .
And considering the league went to great lengths to embrace the Black Lives Matter movement during the NBA bubble , it ’ s pretty easy to see why this has become such a major issue .
The Pistons have yet to comment on this matter publicly , but Platinum Equity partner Mark Barnhill provided ESPN with the following statement : As for Gores , Barnhill maintains that he ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Securus to reform efforts in this area.
” I personally don ’ t expect Gores to sell the Pistons anytime soon , but if players become equally as vocal about this issue , this conflict of interests could present some serious problems for the league .

If you cracked open the New York Times on Sunday, you might’ve been greeted by the following full-page ad:
“If Black Lives Matter, what are you doing about Detroit Pistons owner Tom Gores?”
Advertisement
That’s a hell of a question. And if you ask Worth Rises, a New York-based non-profit that would love nothing more than to completely dismantle the prison industrial complex, it’s also a question that deserves a straight-up answer.
Advertisement Advertisement
ESPN reports that the advocacy group took out the ad because Gores is the founder and CEO of a private equity firm that owns “one of the nation’s largest and most predatory prison telecom corporations: Securus.”
From Worth Rises:
Securus rakes in more than $700 million annually by price-gouging families—disproportionately Black, Brown, and low-income—struggling to connect and support incarcerated loved ones. The corporation routinely charges as much as $15 for a simple 15-minute phone call, and piles on sky-high deposit fees, among others. Securus then pays correctional administrators and sheriffs millions in kickbacks every year. As a result of Securus’ predatory practices, which Tom Gores has authorized, one in three families goes into debt trying to stay connected to a loved one behind bars, and 87 percent of the people carrying that burden are women, largely women of color.
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Sounds pretty shitty to me.
Worth Rises also alleges that under Gores’ watch, Securus was exposed for sharing illegal location-tracking data with police and hit with a class-action lawsuit for artificially inflating prices for calls between incarcerated individuals and their loved ones. Gores also refused to meet with families directly impacted by his business practices.
Advertisement
“It’s unconscionable for anyone to prey on their neighbors in this way, let alone at a time like this,” the group wrote on their website. “He is a prison profiteer who has no place on the board of one of our nation’s favorite cultural institutions: the NBA. Gores should not be allowed to whitewash his active exploitation of marginalized communities by simply asserting that Black Lives Matter, especially in the U.S. city with the highest percentage of Black residents. Gores has to go!”
As for the ad in the New York Times, Worth Rises is calling for the NBA and other team owners to force Gores to sell the Pistons unless he divests from Securus. And considering the league went to great lengths to embrace the Black Lives Matter movement during the NBA bubble, it’s pretty easy to see why this has become such a major issue.
Advertisement
The Pistons have yet to comment on this matter publicly, but Platinum Equity partner Mark Barnhill provided ESPN with the following statement:
Barnhill responded to Sunday’s newspaper advertisement by saying, “Our commitment to the community and to social justice is visible every day,” citing the company’s work with numerous Detroit-area programs and nonprofits. Securus is committed to shouldering “the heavy lifting necessary to transform the company and the industry,” he said.
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As for Gores, Barnhill maintains that he’s been “directing any personal profits from Securus to reform efforts in this area.”
I personally don’t expect Gores to sell the Pistons anytime soon, but if players become equally as vocal about this issue, this conflict of interests could present some serious problems for the league.


theroot--2020-12-21--The Negro Soulstice Is Finally Upon Us and These Tweets Are Just What the Cosmos Ordered to Put Us i

The Negro Soulstice Is Finally Upon Us and These Tweets Are Just What the Cosmos Ordered to Put Us in the Mood

Greetings fellow Super Negroes !
Today is the day that we ’ ve all been ( arguably ) waiting for , the Negro Soulstice .
If you ’ re just now ascending into higher consciousness , let me be the first to welcome you into the fold .
And by “ the fold , ” I mean the League of Extraordinary Negroes .
As your newly self-appointed Super Negro Secretary of Cosmic Communications , I ’ m honored to speak with you all .
Now , before we get into the nitty-gritty of orientation and you start testing out your @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you for being born Black and for walking out your Blackness as best as you know how .
This day has been a long time coming , ( nearly 400 years apparently ) and I know you ’ re just as ready as I am to start walking out your new other-worldly existence .
In fact , I know you ’ re ready because you guys have been all on Twitter expressing your joy , confusion , anticipation and plans for this wondrous occasion : But I need to be clear here : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you won ’ t use your powers ( or your Twitter fingers ) for .
Like this helping out flavor-averse YT people with their food or engaging in fun-shaming over our new abilities .
But dodging Sallie Mae or her evil doppelgänger Navient is absolutely fine .
And speaking of evil enemies , let ’ s all send a special shoutout to our brethren Jason Derulo for finally receiving both the “ strenf of di Blek Pentha ” and the strength of Dr. Manhattan to defeat his arch nemesis MetGalaSTAIRIUS .
We knew @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we knew it .
As for the rest of you who may still be awaiting your supernatural download , please be patient .
Per usual , the transfer is running on CP time and is experiencing a bit of a delay due to the influx of last-minute Super Negro applications .
( For the last time Rachel Dolezal , we ’ re going to need you to stop sending so many apps .
How many times have we sent you this rejection letter , hm ?
And tell your brother-from-another-mother Shaun King his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ Tuh , the nerve . )
Oh , and before you blast off , be sure to wish our fearless leader Nick Fury Samuel L. Jackson a happy 72nd birthday today .
We wouldn ’ t be where we are now without him .
Niggavengers , ASSEMBLE !

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

Greetings fellow Super Negroes! Today is the day that we’ve all been (arguably) waiting for, the Negro Soulstice. If you’re just now ascending into higher consciousness, let me be the first to welcome you into the fold. And by “the fold,” I mean the League of Extraordinary Negroes.
As your newly self-appointed Super Negro Secretary of Cosmic Communications, I’m honored to speak with you all. Now, before we get into the nitty-gritty of orientation and you start testing out your new powers, I want to congratulate you for being born Black and for walking out your Blackness as best as you know how. This day has been a long time coming, ( nearly 400 years apparently) and I know you’re just as ready as I am to start walking out your new other-worldly existence. In fact, I know you’re ready because you guys have been all on Twitter expressing your joy, confusion, anticipation and plans for this wondrous occasion:
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But I need to be clear here: There are some things we really wish you won’t use your powers (or your Twitter fingers) for. Like this helping out flavor-averse YT people with their food or engaging in fun-shaming over our new abilities.
But dodging Sallie Mae or her evil doppelgänger Navient is absolutely fine.
Advertisement
And speaking of evil enemies, let’s all send a special shoutout to our brethren Jason Derulo for finally receiving both the “strenf of di Blek Pentha” and the strength of Dr. Manhattan to defeat his arch nemesis MetGalaSTAIRIUS. We knew you had it in you Jason, we knew it.
As for the rest of you who may still be awaiting your supernatural download, please be patient. Per usual, the transfer is running on CP time and is experiencing a bit of a delay due to the influx of last-minute Super Negro applications. (For the last time Rachel Dolezal, we’re going to need you to stop sending so many apps. How many times have we sent you this rejection letter, hm? And tell your brother-from-another-mother Shaun King his got ‘lost in the mail too.’ Tuh, the nerve.)
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Oh, and before you blast off, be sure to wish our fearless leader Nick Fury Samuel L. Jackson a happy 72nd birthday today. We wouldn’t be where we are now without him. Niggavengers, ASSEMBLE!


theroot--2020-12-21--The 10 Best Deals of December 21, 2020

The 10 Best Deals of December 21, 2020

It ’ s December 21 , and we at Kinja Deals are here to bring you the top 10 deals of the day .
This Christmas , upgrade your kitchen knives with the Cuisinart 10-Piece Knife Set .
Step into Murakami ’ s consciousness with up to 33 % on Studio Ghibli Steelbook blu-rays .
Get your auntie the latest Mpow M30 Earbuds this holiday season .
If you ’ re still craving more deals , take a peek at Monday ’ s best deals overall .
At some point , the speakers on your laptop or phone may not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ t really carry your laptop around the house while you do your chores , for instance , and its speakers are no match for your neighbor ’ s lawnmower in the middle of a company meeting .
If you ’ ve ruled out a pair of headphones , you can always try out a good Bluetooth speaker for carrying a tune .
Right now , Anker ’ s got a few on sale at Best Buy .
You can get the Soundcore Flare 2 for $ 20 off , bringing it down @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you ’ ll get an IP67 waterproof speaker with beat-syncing lights , and six lighting modes .
If your needs are more work-focused , Anker ’ s Powerconference speaker is down to $ 100 from $ 130 , and comes with six microphones for full-room coverage , so you can feel like a hotshot and pace around your living room during your next brainstorm session .
This deal was originally published by Jordan McMahon .
Who doesn ’ t want a set of colorful knives for your kitchen ?
If your current knife @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would grab this $ 15 Cuisinart 10-piece knife set that is 62 % off .
It includes a chef knife , slicing knife , serrated bread knife , santoku knife , utility knife , and a pairing knife .
It also includes knife covers and comes with a lifetime warranty through Cuisinart .
You ’ ll never be confused about which knife is which again since they ’ re basically color-coded .
Grab this deal before it ’ s gone !
This deal was originally published by Ignacia Fulcher .
Two pure aluminum @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 28 , down $ 10 from their original list price of $ 38 .
They won ’ t rust and can give you perfectly browned cookies , salmon , asparagus , and whatever else your heart desires .
Grab a set of these classic cookie sheets from a brand you trust , right now .
What are you waiting for ?
This deal was originally published by Ignacia Fulcher .
Feeling nostalgic ?
You can feed that 16-bit void in your heart with a Sega Genesis Mini , a reincarnation of the classic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
For $ 50 , it comes with 42 games , including crowd favorites like Sonic , Mega Man , Ecco the Dolphin , Earthworm Jim , Shinobi III , Street Fighter 2 , Toe Jam & Earl , Altered Beast , Gunstar Heroes ... need I go on ?
This isn ’ t the lowest price we ’ ve seen on the Genesis Mini to date , but if you missed out on previous deals , this bargain is plenty appealing .
This deal was originally published by Quentyn Kennemer .
With @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of cars , Dirt 5 is designed as a dream game for rally racing fanatics .
A star-studded campaign has you climbing the ladder to solidify your status as the offroading champion of the world , while an all new Playgrounds mode fosters creativity with user-created tracks and racing arenas .
Even though it just came out last month , you can already save $ 20 on the game at Amazon , whether you want the PlayStation 5 , Xbox ( Series X/S and One ) , or PlayStation 4 version .
This @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Are you the friend constantly asking if anyone has a charger ?
Or pre-pandemic were you asking bartenders if you could plug your phone in somewhere ?
The second option is probably not on the table now so what better way to solve the problem than by grabbing these two Power Banks for $ 20 .
I ’ ve had Mophie products before and really like them .
This two-pack is a great value so whether it ’ s you who needs these or a friend no one should be without power @ @ @ @ @ @ @ one at all times so having two means I can swap out each day .
Have one charging while the other is out and about with me .
Lightweight and is available in four color options ( pink , navy , grey , and black ) you ’ ll get up to 34 hours of extra power on the go .
Charge up with a lightning cable and a USB-C port .
You and can juice up a phone and/or a tablet or wireless headphones at the same time if need be .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ so if you are gifting one the recipient won ’ t be without a manual .
If you ’ ve read a few of our pieces on Meh before and you like what you ’ ve seen they offer a $ 5 monthly fee to get free shipping on all of your orders no matter how many .
Otherwise , it ’ s a flat rate of $ 8 .
This deal was originally published by Sheilah Villari .
The end of the year is a great opportunity to revamp your makeup collection @ @ @ @ @ @ @ old brushes , cracked eyeshadow , and dried-up concealer .
Sephora is here to help you get the beauty back in your bundle .
Take an extra 20 % off everything in their sale selection with the code MAJORSALE .
Start 2021 with a fresh face of old favorites or try a brand you ’ ve had your eye on for a lot less .
Speaking of a fresh face , I was lucky enough to test beautyblender ’ s Bounce Liquid Foundation at the beginning of the year .
They really listened @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but in range .
With forty shades this is the most expansive collection the company has ever put out ( after rightfully getting read for a limited line of hues ) .
There is a shade finder to help you because I still have no idea what I am even after testing .
But I can say it really is long-wearing and breathable .
Definitely worth $ 16 .
But before you cover up your few imperfections let ’ s try to lessen them .
You know I couldn ’ t make this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
In honor of the Winter Solstice , Dr. Jart ’ s Moisture from Head to Toe Set is all about saving dry skin .
This three-piece set aims to protect and nourish your face .
Each product contains ceramides which act as a barrier to make it stronger , firmer , and glowing .
You ’ ll get a facial barrier mask , ceramidin cream , and ceramidin body lotion .
Now is the time to try Huda Beauty .
One of the world ’ s best selling brands and it ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Huda Kattan knows what she ’ s doing when it comes to quality products for beautification .
And if you can snag one of her coveted palettes for well over 50 % off even better .
This Desert Dusk palette has eighteen shades in a mix of mattes , pressed pearls , chrome toppers , and glitter .
All highly pigmented for all-day wear .
Stun on your next zoom call or skype date .
These colors are gorgeous and translate no matter the medium .
Free shipping for orders over $ 50 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 1 .
This deal was originally published by Sheilah Villari .
This year ’ s launch of HBO Max offered an easy way for North American fans to access the Studio Ghibli library , making anime classics like My Neighbor Totoro , Spirited Away , and Princess Mononoke ready for on-demand streaming .
But if you ’ re more into physical media or just want reliable access to these brilliant films that is untethered to streaming deals and subscription fees , now you can save on these recent Blu-ray/DVD releases .
Amazon has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to 33 % off each , with starkly minimal new steelbook packaging that will help them stand apart from your collection—just like the films themselves .
This deal was originally published by Andrew Hayward .
Nautica is known for pretty traditional American looks and styles .
They ’ re also known for comfort .
Being cozy at home has been the number one goal for many of us this year and why not finish of 2020 with that in mind .
These Classic Quarter-Zip Sweaters are 54 % off with the code GIFT @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and most sizes are still available in each , especially in the more usual hues like black , blue , and grey .
These sweaters are ideal for layering and are made of soft jersey-knit material , so warmth is key .
Nautica has that perfect way of designing things to be a little sporty and a little dressy .
Definitely , some business casual vibes so if you need to hope on the happy hour zoom you ’ ll still look dang put together .
The collar , cuffs , and hem @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cotton/polyester blend to easy to wash and are for .
Free shipping on all orders over $ 25 .
This deal was originally published by Sheilah Villari .
I ’ ve tested Mpow products in the past and was always pleasantly surprised at the value to price ratio .
They ’ re quality without breaking the bank .
A real holiday treat from the company is their M30 Earbuds .
They ’ re just $ 19 when you clip the coupon and use the code O6GO23BF .
This discount will appear once you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ expires on December 25 and it only works on the pink color .
$ 19 is a great price for an extra set of earbuds .
If you ’ re running errands or just running and you don ’ t want to take your most expensive buds on the go these are for you .
Quick to pair and easy to bounce between tunes and calls .
The M30 's are noise-canceling so ideal for travel and just because they are small and fit snuggly doesn ’ t mean there ’ s no @ @ @ @ @ @ @ big bass .
They ’ re sweat-proof so sport it up and fear not about ruining them .
You ’ ll get about 5 hours off of one charge but 25 hours with the charging case .
The only blip is if you ’ re an Android user you have to adjust the volume on your phone to “ maximum ” first to get the highest volume out of these .
Other than that it ’ s a solid audio device at a solid price .
Free shipping on this item for Prime @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by Sheilah Villari .

Juliana Clark on Kinja Deals, shared by Ignacia to The Root

Monday’s Best Deals | Kinja Deals
It’s December 21, and we at Kinja Deals are here to bring you the top 10 deals of the day. This Christmas, upgrade your kitchen knives with the Cuisinart 10-Piece Knife Set. Step into Murakami’s consciousness with up to 33% on Studio Ghibli Steelbook blu-rays. Get your auntie the latest Mpow M30 Earbuds this holiday season.
If you’re still craving more deals, take a peek at Monday’s best deals overall.
#1: Anker Speakers
At some point, the speakers on your laptop or phone may not cut it any more. You can’t really carry your laptop around the house while you do your chores, for instance, and its speakers are no match for your neighbor’s lawnmower in the middle of a company meeting. If you’ve ruled out a pair of headphones, you can always try out a good Bluetooth speaker for carrying a tune. Right now, Anker’s got a few on sale at Best Buy.
You can get the Soundcore Flare 2 for $20 off, bringing it down to $50. For that, you’ll get an IP67 waterproof speaker with beat-syncing lights, and six lighting modes.
If your needs are more work-focused, Anker’s Powerconference speaker is down to $100 from $130, and comes with six microphones for full-room coverage, so you can feel like a hotshot and pace around your living room during your next brainstorm session.
This deal was originally published by Jordan McMahon.
#2: Cuisinart knives
Who doesn’t want a set of colorful knives for your kitchen? If your current knife set is dull and uninspiring, I would grab this $15 Cuisinart 10-piece knife set that is 62% off. It includes a chef knife, slicing knife, serrated bread knife, santoku knife, utility knife, and a pairing knife. It also includes knife covers and comes with a lifetime warranty through Cuisinart. You’ll never be confused about which knife is which again since they’re basically color-coded. Grab this deal before it’s gone!
This deal was originally published by Ignacia Fulcher.
#3: Nordic ware sheet pans
Two pure aluminum Nordic Ware sheet pans are only $28, down $10 from their original list price of $38. They won’t rust and can give you perfectly browned cookies, salmon, asparagus, and whatever else your heart desires. Grab a set of these classic cookie sheets from a brand you trust, right now. What are you waiting for?
This deal was originally published by Ignacia Fulcher.
#4: Sega genesis mini
Feeling nostalgic? You can feed that 16-bit void in your heart with a Sega Genesis Mini, a reincarnation of the classic console that helped save the gaming industry. For $50, it comes with 42 games, including crowd favorites like Sonic, Mega Man, Ecco the Dolphin, Earthworm Jim, Shinobi III, Street Fighter 2, Toe Jam & Earl, Altered Beast, Gunstar Heroes ... need I go on?
This isn’t the lowest price we’ve seen on the Genesis Mini to date, but if you missed out on previous deals, this bargain is plenty appealing.
This deal was originally published by Quentyn Kennemer.
#5: dirt 5
With over 70 tracks and a huge list of cars, Dirt 5 is designed as a dream game for rally racing fanatics. A star-studded campaign has you climbing the ladder to solidify your status as the offroading champion of the world, while an all new Playgrounds mode fosters creativity with user-created tracks and racing arenas.
Even though it just came out last month, you can already save $20 on the game at Amazon, whether you want the PlayStation 5, Xbox (Series X/S and One), or PlayStation 4 version.
This deal was originally published by Quentyn Kennemer.
#6: Mophie powerstation
Are you the friend constantly asking if anyone has a charger? Or pre-pandemic were you asking bartenders if you could plug your phone in somewhere? The second option is probably not on the table now so what better way to solve the problem than by grabbing these two Power Banks for $20.
I’ve had Mophie products before and really like them. This two-pack is a great value so whether it’s you who needs these or a friend no one should be without power again. I personally like to have one at all times so having two means I can swap out each day. Have one charging while the other is out and about with me. Lightweight and is available in four color options (pink, navy, grey, and black) you’ll get up to 34 hours of extra power on the go. Charge up with a lightning cable and a USB-C port. You and can juice up a phone and/or a tablet or wireless headphones at the same time if need be. This pack comes with two guide books so if you are gifting one the recipient won’t be without a manual.
If you’ve read a few of our pieces on Meh before and you like what you’ve seen they offer a $5 monthly fee to get free shipping on all of your orders no matter how many. Otherwise, it’s a flat rate of $8.
This deal was originally published by Sheilah Villari.
#7: Sephora sale
The end of the year is a great opportunity to revamp your makeup collection. Time to throwout cakey mascara, old brushes, cracked eyeshadow, and dried-up concealer. Sephora is here to help you get the beauty back in your bundle. Take an extra 20% off everything in their sale selection with the code MAJORSALE. Start 2021 with a fresh face of old favorites or try a brand you’ve had your eye on for a lot less.
Speaking of a fresh face, I was lucky enough to test beautyblender’s Bounce Liquid Foundation at the beginning of the year. They really listened to their customers not only in quality but in range. With forty shades this is the most expansive collection the company has ever put out (after rightfully getting read for a limited line of hues). There is a shade finder to help you because I still have no idea what I am even after testing. But I can say it really is long-wearing and breathable. Definitely worth $16.
But before you cover up your few imperfections let’s try to lessen them. You know I couldn’t make this list without including a Korean beauty fave. In honor of the Winter Solstice, Dr. Jart’s Moisture from Head to Toe Set is all about saving dry skin. This three-piece set aims to protect and nourish your face. Each product contains ceramides which act as a barrier to make it stronger, firmer, and glowing. You’ll get a facial barrier mask, ceramidin cream, and ceramidin body lotion.
Now is the time to try Huda Beauty. One of the world’s best selling brands and it’s easy to see why. That Huda Kattan knows what she’s doing when it comes to quality products for beautification. And if you can snag one of her coveted palettes for well over 50% off even better. This Desert Dusk palette has eighteen shades in a mix of mattes, pressed pearls, chrome toppers, and glitter. All highly pigmented for all-day wear. Stun on your next zoom call or skype date. These colors are gorgeous and translate no matter the medium.
Free shipping for orders over $50 and the code will work until January 1.
This deal was originally published by Sheilah Villari.
#8: studio ghibli steelbooks
This year’s launch of HBO Max offered an easy way for North American fans to access the Studio Ghibli library, making anime classics like My Neighbor Totoro, Spirited Away, and Princess Mononoke ready for on-demand streaming.
But if you’re more into physical media or just want reliable access to these brilliant films that is untethered to streaming deals and subscription fees, now you can save on these recent Blu-ray/DVD releases. Amazon has several Ghibli films on sale for up to 33% off each, with starkly minimal new steelbook packaging that will help them stand apart from your collection—just like the films themselves.
This deal was originally published by Andrew Hayward.
#9: Nautica Classic Quarter-Zip Sweater
Nautica is known for pretty traditional American looks and styles. They’re also known for comfort. Being cozy at home has been the number one goal for many of us this year and why not finish of 2020 with that in mind. These Classic Quarter-Zip Sweaters are 54% off with the code GIFT.
They come in fourteen different colors and most sizes are still available in each, especially in the more usual hues like black, blue, and grey. These sweaters are ideal for layering and are made of soft jersey-knit material, so warmth is key. Nautica has that perfect way of designing things to be a little sporty and a little dressy. Definitely, some business casual vibes so if you need to hope on the happy hour zoom you’ll still look dang put together. The collar, cuffs, and hem are ribbed-knit. It’s a cotton/polyester blend to easy to wash and are for.
Free shipping on all orders over $25.
This deal was originally published by Sheilah Villari.
#10: mpow m30 earbuds (pink)
I’ve tested Mpow products in the past and was always pleasantly surprised at the value to price ratio. They’re quality without breaking the bank. A real holiday treat from the company is their M30 Earbuds. They’re just $19 when you clip the coupon and use the code O6GO23BF. This discount will appear once you start the checkout process. This code expires on December 25 and it only works on the pink color.
$19 is a great price for an extra set of earbuds. If you’re running errands or just running and you don’t want to take your most expensive buds on the go these are for you. Quick to pair and easy to bounce between tunes and calls. The M30's are noise-canceling so ideal for travel and just because they are small and fit snuggly doesn’t mean there’s no power in them. Little buds, big bass. They’re sweat-proof so sport it up and fear not about ruining them. You’ll get about 5 hours off of one charge but 25 hours with the charging case. The only blip is if you’re an Android user you have to adjust the volume on your phone to “maximum” first to get the highest volume out of these. Other than that it’s a solid audio device at a solid price.
Free shipping on this item for Prime members.
This deal was originally published by Sheilah Villari.


theroot--2020-12-21--Locked Up a Broad: COVID Karen Appeals to Trump After Coronavirus Incarceration In Caymans

In the latest example of “ the man ” keeping a good Caucasian woman down , the family of an 18-year-old Georgia woman has asked the Trump administration to intervene in her unusually fair jail sentence for flouting COVID-19 protocols in the Cayman Islands .
Due in part to strict regulations ( pdf ) requiring all visitors to undergo testing , followed by a two-week quarantine period , the Cayman Islands has suffered only two deaths during the worldwide coronavirus pandemic .
The rigid protocols and high testing rates have resulted in one of the lowest infection rates in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
But when criminal mastermind Skylar Mack decided to visit her 24-year-old professional jet-skiing boyfriend , Vanjae Ramgeet , Breakout Becky decided to disregard the country ’ s effective coronavirus control rules .
Although I will always believe that everyone is a pre-med student who just hasn ’ t attended medical school yet , Skylar ’ s extensive medical training ( she ’ s seen every episode of Grey ’ s Anatomy ) informed her that she didn ’ t need no damn quarantine .
In spite of the fact that she came @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with the worst COVID-19 infection in the world , the college student decided to go to the jet-ski race anyway .
Mack , who is enrolled as a pre-med student at Mercer University in Macon , Georgia , arrived in the Cayman Islands on Nov. 27 and was supposed to undergo a two-week quarantine as mandated by the government , which electronically tracks anyone who arrives in the British Caribbean territory .
However , she broke quarantine on Nov. 29 when her boyfriend picked her up to attend a water sports event , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a judge ruled the couple had to provide 40 hours of community service and pay a $ 4,400 fine .
In addition , Ramgeet was ordered to a two-month curfew that would start at 7 p.m .
But the prosecution appealed , arguing the punishment was unduly lenient and would not deter other possible violators .
A higher court decided in favor of prosecutors , ruling on Dec. 15 that the couple be imprisoned immediately .
The Cayman Compass newspaper reported that Judge Roger Chapple said during Tuesday ’ s sentencing that the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of “ selfishness and arrogance , ” adding in its report that Mack spent seven hours out in public without a face mask or social distancing .
In an attempt to free Skylar ( I have already ordered my T-shirt ) , attorney Jonathan Hughes has appealed directly to the Trump administration to get the Caymans to “ send her back ” on the grounds that four months in prison would have a “ particularly harsh effect on her , ” according to NBC .
Of course , everyone knows that president “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ spot for women who don ’ t adhere to the customs of a particular nation .
Especially the “ shithole countries.
” Just as Trump asserted that “ when the looting starts , the shooting starts , ” the governor of the Caymans issued a statement effectively saying : “ If a Karen won ’ t listen to me , I ’ ll send her ass to the penitentiary.
” When will the unjust oppression of privileged white women end ?
Skylar managed to pull herself out of the crime-ridden ghetto of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ herself , only to fall prey to the racist “ war on viruses.
” It ’ s not like she was doing something dangerous like sleeping in her bedroom ; looking out of the window or walking home with a pocketful of Skittles .
Who among us has never traveled to an island paradise during a raging , invisible pandemic and said , “ Fuck these healthy people ; my boo is about to go motorsurfing !
” You know how it is when you ’ re young , dumb and filled with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ life and safety of an entire country because you want to watch a bae frolic on jet-skis !
As Jefferson said , all men are created equal and are endowed with the unalienable rights to life , liberty and the pursuit of skedaddling on sea motorcycles .
( That was the preamble to my homeboy Juwan Jefferson ’ s “ Declaration of Deez Nuts.
” ) According to Skylar ’ s father , it ’ s obvious that someone has a “ vendetta ” against this “ powerless ” “ American , ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” who was the same age as “ robbery suspect ” Michael Brown and a year older than “ weed , fight and guns ” suspect Trayvon Martin when they got what they “ deserved.
” If there ’ s anyone who understands what it feels like to be maligned for disregarding COVID-19 protocols , it ’ s the Trump administration .
Hopefully , the president will save this poor woman from the coronavirus industrial complex .
If poisoning people with stuff that came out of your mouth is such a heinous crime @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in jail right now ?
You know what ?
I ’ m gon na go ahead and say it : She ’ s the Kellyanne Conway of Amanda Knoxes .
Wait until Rudy Giuliani hears about this .
I ’ m sure he ’ ll file lawsuits demanding a recount of the judge ’ s verdict .
Supreme Court handmaid Amy Coney Barrett would have gotten involved if she hadn ’ t heard that Skylar was reportedly wearing a thong .
Maybe the people who bailed out Kyle Rittenhouse will put some money @ @ @ @ @ @ @ about the case have mentioned that Mack ’ s boyfriend has been incarcerated .
But he ’ s not white so ... you know .
Even if this is the worst season ever of 90-Day Fiance , I think we can all agree on what ’ s important here :

In the latest example of “the man” keeping a good Caucasian woman down, the family of an 18-year-old Georgia woman has asked the Trump administration to intervene in her unusually fair jail sentence for flouting COVID-19 protocols in the Cayman Islands.
Due in part to strict regulations (pdf) requiring all visitors to undergo testing, followed by a two-week quarantine period, the Cayman Islands has suffered only two deaths during the worldwide coronavirus pandemic. The rigid protocols and high testing rates have resulted in one of the lowest infection rates in the world, according to United Nations data.
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But when criminal mastermind Skylar Mack decided to visit her 24-year-old professional jet-skiing boyfriend, Vanjae Ramgeet, Breakout Becky decided to disregard the country’s effective coronavirus control rules. Although I will always believe that everyone is a pre-med student who just hasn’t attended medical school yet, Skylar’s extensive medical training (she’s seen every episode of Grey’s Anatomy) informed her that she didn’t need no damn quarantine. In spite of the fact that she came to the Caymans directly from the country with the worst COVID-19 infection in the world, the college student decided to go to the jet-ski race anyway.
The Associated Press reports:
Mack, who is enrolled as a pre-med student at Mercer University in Macon, Georgia, arrived in the Cayman Islands on Nov. 27 and was supposed to undergo a two-week quarantine as mandated by the government, which electronically tracks anyone who arrives in the British Caribbean territory. However, she broke quarantine on Nov. 29 when her boyfriend picked her up to attend a water sports event, Hughes said. After their arrest, a judge ruled the couple had to provide 40 hours of community service and pay a $4,400 fine. In addition, Ramgeet was ordered to a two-month curfew that would start at 7 p.m. But the prosecution appealed, arguing the punishment was unduly lenient and would not deter other possible violators. A higher court decided in favor of prosecutors, ruling on Dec. 15 that the couple be imprisoned immediately. The Cayman Compass newspaper reported that Judge Roger Chapple said during Tuesday’s sentencing that the decision to violate safety measures was born of “selfishness and arrogance,” adding in its report that Mack spent seven hours out in public without a face mask or social distancing.
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In an attempt to free Skylar (I have already ordered my T-shirt), attorney Jonathan Hughes has appealed directly to the Trump administration to get the Caymans to “send her back” on the grounds that four months in prison would have a “particularly harsh effect on her,” according to NBC. Of course, everyone knows that president “law and order” has a soft spot for women who don’t adhere to the customs of a particular nation. Especially the “shithole countries.”
Just as Trump asserted that “when the looting starts, the shooting starts,” the governor of the Caymans issued a statement effectively saying: “If a Karen won’t listen to me, I’ll send her ass to the penitentiary.”
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When will the unjust oppression of privileged white women end? Skylar managed to pull herself out of the crime-ridden ghetto of the Atlanta suburbs and make something out of herself, only to fall prey to the racist “war on viruses.” It’s not like she was doing something dangerous like sleeping in her bedroom; looking out of the window or walking home with a pocketful of Skittles.
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Who among us has never traveled to an island paradise during a raging, invisible pandemic and said, “Fuck these healthy people; my boo is about to go motorsurfing!” You know how it is when you’re young, dumb and filled with so much privilege that you threatened the life and safety of an entire country because you want to watch a bae frolic on jet-skis! As Jefferson said, all men are created equal and are endowed with the unalienable rights to life, liberty and the pursuit of skedaddling on sea motorcycles. (That was the preamble to my homeboy Juwan Jefferson’s “Declaration of Deez Nuts.”) According to Skylar’s father, it’s obvious that someone has a “vendetta” against this “powerless” “American,” “teen” and “college student” who was the same age as “robbery suspect” Michael Brown and a year older than “weed, fight and guns” suspect Trayvon Martin when they got what they “deserved.”
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If there’s anyone who understands what it feels like to be maligned for disregarding COVID-19 protocols, it’s the Trump administration. Hopefully, the president will save this poor woman from the coronavirus industrial complex. If poisoning people with stuff that came out of your mouth is such a heinous crime, why isn’t Anne Coulter in jail right now? You know what? I’m gonna go ahead and say it:
Skylar Mack is an American hero.
She’s the Kellyanne Conway of Amanda Knoxes. Wait until Rudy Giuliani hears about this. I’m sure he’ll file lawsuits demanding a recount of the judge’s verdict. Supreme Court handmaid Amy Coney Barrett would have gotten involved if she hadn’t heard that Skylar was reportedly wearing a thong. Maybe the people who bailed out Kyle Rittenhouse will put some money on her books.
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Very few articles about the case have mentioned that Mack’s boyfriend has been incarcerated. But he’s not white so...you know. Even if this is the worst season ever of 90-Day Fiance, I think we can all agree on what’s important here:
Mack Lives Matter
Hold your head, Skylar.
Stay up.


theroot--2020-12-21--Senate Leaders Say $600 Stimulus Checks Are ‘Just a First Step’ as Millions of Americans Shout GTFOH

Welp , it finally happened .
After months of contentious negotiations between groups of people who have plenty of money who make decisions that greatly affect people who don ’ t , Senate officials announced the bipartisan $ 900 billion coronavirus stimulus package—one that will provide most Americans with $ 600 to help make ends meet as the pandemic rages on .
As one can easily imagine , not everyone is thrilled about struggling Americans getting half of the $ 1,200 amount they got from the first stimulus package .
“ More help is on the way .
Moments ago @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the four leaders of the Senate and House finalized an agreement , ” Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell ( R-Ky. ) said from the Senate floor , the Washington Post reports .
“ It would be another major rescue package for the American people .
As our citizens continue battling this coronavirus pandemic this holiday season , they will not be fighting alone.
” Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer ( D-N.Y. ) also spoke Sunday appearing to acknowledge that $ 600 isn ’ t enough for many people to pay one month @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pandemic without sufficient wages .
Schumer then took to the floor , calling the aid package insufficient but heralding it as a critical measure to “ give the new president a boost , a head start , as he prepared to right our ailing economy.
” The House and Senate on Sunday night approved a one-day extension of government funding to allow the final bill text on the relief package to be written .
President Trump signed the stopgap measure , preventing a government shutdown .
The legislation includes stimulus checks for millions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ per person .
The size of that benefit would be reduced for people who earned more than $ 75,000 in 2019 and disappear altogether for those who earned more than $ 99,000 .
The stimulus checks would provide $ 600 per adult and child , meaning a family of four would receive $ 2,400 up to a certain income .
Congress would also extend federal unemployment benefits of up to $ 300 per week , which could start as early as Dec. 27 .
Schumer described the package as “ just a first @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , we need a second bill to continue dealing with the emergency and to start stimulating our economy so we get back to where we were and that will be job number one in the new Biden administration , ” he said .
The bill is expected to be passed by the Senate and the House by the end of the day , according to the Washington Post .
According to CBS News , before last-minute negotiations ensured that people would get some kind of money deposited into their accounts , it was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ include a second round of stimulus checks at all .
Now it appears that “ something is better than nothing ” is the general attitude .
“ While the deal is months late and will likely fall short of what is needed to prevent a rough winter , it ’ s better than nothing , ” Gregory Daco , chief U.S. economist at Oxford Economics , wrote in a research note Sunday , CBS reports .
“ It will help buffer the current economic slowdown and provide increased dynamism to the economy during @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Insider reports that a group of 17 Democrats recently signed a letter to congressional leadership pushing for $ 2,000 stimulus checks to be included in the relief package .
On Friday , Democratic Rep. Ayanna Pressley said on MSNBC that “ at this point , these are not even stimulus checks .
These are survival checks.
” It has also been reported that Donald Trump ’ s aides stopped him from publicly pushing for $ 2,000 checks , but The Root ’ s Stephen Crockett already explained why that ’ s likely a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Twitter , the hashtags # 600isNotEnough and # 600isNotaStimulusPakage pretty much sum up how people have generally reacted to the news .
According to CNBC , Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said Monday that people will start receiving stimulus checks as early as next week .

Welp, it finally happened. After months of contentious negotiations between groups of people who have plenty of money who make decisions that greatly affect people who don’t, Senate officials announced the bipartisan $900 billion coronavirus stimulus package—one that will provide most Americans with $600 to help make ends meet as the pandemic rages on. As one can easily imagine, not everyone is thrilled about struggling Americans getting half of the $1,200 amount they got from the first stimulus package.
“More help is on the way. Moments ago, in consultation with our committees, the four leaders of the Senate and House finalized an agreement,” Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) said from the Senate floor, the Washington Post reports. “It would be another major rescue package for the American people. As our citizens continue battling this coronavirus pandemic this holiday season, they will not be fighting alone.”
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Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer (D-N.Y.) also spoke Sunday appearing to acknowledge that $600 isn’t enough for many people to pay one month’s rent let alone survive a pandemic without sufficient wages.
From the Post:
Schumer then took to the floor, calling the aid package insufficient but heralding it as a critical measure to “give the new president a boost, a head start, as he prepared to right our ailing economy.” The House and Senate on Sunday night approved a one-day extension of government funding to allow the final bill text on the relief package to be written. President Trump signed the stopgap measure, preventing a government shutdown. The legislation includes stimulus checks for millions of Americans of up to $600 per person. The size of that benefit would be reduced for people who earned more than $75,000 in 2019 and disappear altogether for those who earned more than $99,000. The stimulus checks would provide $600 per adult and child, meaning a family of four would receive $2,400 up to a certain income. Congress would also extend federal unemployment benefits of up to $300 per week, which could start as early as Dec. 27.
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Schumer described the package as “just a first step.”
“This is an emergency, we need a second bill to continue dealing with the emergency and to start stimulating our economy so we get back to where we were and that will be job number one in the new Biden administration,” he said.
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The bill is expected to be passed by the Senate and the House by the end of the day, according to the Washington Post.
According to CBS News, before last-minute negotiations ensured that people would get some kind of money deposited into their accounts, it was unclear whether the new relief bill would include a second round of stimulus checks at all. Now it appears that “something is better than nothing” is the general attitude.
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“While the deal is months late and will likely fall short of what is needed to prevent a rough winter, it’s better than nothing,” Gregory Daco, chief U.S. economist at Oxford Economics, wrote in a research note Sunday, CBS reports. “It will help buffer the current economic slowdown and provide increased dynamism to the economy during the initial vaccine rollout phase.”
Business Insider reports that a group of 17 Democrats recently signed a letter to congressional leadership pushing for $2,000 stimulus checks to be included in the relief package. On Friday, Democratic Rep. Ayanna Pressley said on MSNBC that “at this point, these are not even stimulus checks. These are survival checks.”
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It has also been reported that Donald Trump’s aides stopped him from publicly pushing for $2,000 checks, but The Root’s Stephen Crockett already explained why that’s likely a bunch of bullshit.
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Meanwhile, on Twitter, the hashtags #600isNotEnough and #600isNotaStimulusPakage pretty much sum up how people have generally reacted to the news.
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According to CNBC, Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said Monday that people will start receiving stimulus checks as early as next week.


theroot--2020-12-21--Chicago’s Top Attorney Resigns Following Continuous Outrage Over Botched Police Raid

On Sunday the lead attorney for the city of Chicago , Mark Flessner , resigned from his role as Corporation Counsel for the city of Chicago via an email sent to staff .
According to NPR , Flessner ’ s resignation was brought on because of the continual backlash surrounding the now-viral video of a 2019 botched police raid of the home of a local social worker , Anjanette Young .
As previously reported by The Root , officers bombarded Young ’ s home after being falsely tipped off by an informant , breaking down her door , handcuffing her @ @ @ @ @ @ @ This all happened while Young , who had just gotten out of the shower , stood naked , repeatedly telling police that they had the wrong home .
Chicago Tribune reporter Gregory Pratt shared an image of Flessner ’ s email in a tweet Sunday afternoon .
“ Dear Team , I have resigned as Corporation Counsel .
I will work on a transition plan over the next few days , ” Flessner wrote .
At this point , it ’ s unclear whether or not he was asked to resign , but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ resignation saying : ‘ I accepted the resignation of Corporation Counsel Mark Flessner effective immediately .
I want to thank him for his service to the City of Chicago .
I am committed to a full review of everything that occurred surrounding this incident , will take corrective action where appropriate , and will hold people accountable.
” After his resignation , Flessner told the Chicago Tribune that he felt he was being accused by the public of trying to conceal police body camera footage of the raid .
But he maintains that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ video , which was released publicly by Chicago station WBBM-TV was brought to light earlier this month , but only after a long , legal fight with the city of Chicago .
Speaking on behalf of his client ’ s traumatic and harrowing experience , Young ’ s attorney Keenan Saunter had this to say to Chicago ’ s CBS2 : “ If this had been a young woman in Lincoln Park by herself in her home naked , a young white woman—let ’ s just be frank–if the reaction would have been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ think it would have been .
I think [ officers ] would have saw that woman , rightfully so , as someone who was vulnerable , someone who deserved protection , someone who deserved to have their dignity maintained .
They viewed Ms. Young as less than human.
” As of now , Mayor Lightfoot has ordered a review of the city ’ s video release policy and apologized to Young on behalf of both herself and the City of Chicago .

On Sunday the lead attorney for the city of Chicago, Mark Flessner, resigned from his role as Corporation Counsel for the city of Chicago via an email sent to staff.
According to NPR, Flessner’s resignation was brought on because of the continual backlash surrounding the now-viral video of a 2019 botched police raid of the home of a local social worker, Anjanette Young. As previously reported by The Root, officers bombarded Young’s home after being falsely tipped off by an informant, breaking down her door, handcuffing her, and tearing up her home. This all happened while Young, who had just gotten out of the shower, stood naked, repeatedly telling police that they had the wrong home.
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Chicago Tribune reporter Gregory Pratt shared an image of Flessner’s email in a tweet Sunday afternoon. “Dear Team, I have resigned as Corporation Counsel. I will work on a transition plan over the next few days,” Flessner wrote.
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At this point, it’s unclear whether or not he was asked to resign, but Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot swiftly accepted his resignation saying:
‘I accepted the resignation of Corporation Counsel Mark Flessner effective immediately. I want to thank him for his service to the City of Chicago. I am committed to a full review of everything that occurred surrounding this incident, will take corrective action where appropriate, and will hold people accountable.”
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After his resignation, Flessner told the Chicago Tribune that he felt he was being accused by the public of trying to conceal police body camera footage of the raid. But he maintains that it isn’t so. The video, which was released publicly by Chicago station WBBM-TV was brought to light earlier this month, but only after a long, legal fight with the city of Chicago. Speaking on behalf of his client’s traumatic and harrowing experience, Young’s attorney Keenan Saunter had this to say to Chicago’s CBS2:
“If this had been a young woman in Lincoln Park by herself in her home naked, a young white woman—let’s just be frank–if the reaction would have been the same? I don’t think it would have been. I think [officers] would have saw that woman, rightfully so, as someone who was vulnerable, someone who deserved protection, someone who deserved to have their dignity maintained. They viewed Ms. Young as less than human.”
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As of now, Mayor Lightfoot has ordered a review of the city’s video release policy and apologized to Young on behalf of both herself and the City of Chicago.


theroot--2020-12-21--It Took Over 100 Years, But Virginia Finally Removed a Statue of Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lee From

It Took Over 100 Years, But Virginia Finally Removed a Statue of Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lee From the U.S. Capitol

The only thing weirder than the fact that a monument of a dude who straight up betrayed the United States exists in the nation ’ s Capitol , representing the state of Virginia , is the fact it ’ s been there for over 100 years .
Well , at least it was , as Virginia has finally taken the step of removing the statue .
ABC News reports that Virginia Gov .
Ralph Northam ( D ) revealed in a statement that workers removed the monument from the National Statuary Hall Collection on Monday morning .
“ The Confederacy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ racist and divisive history , and it is past time we tell our story with images of perseverance , diversity , and inclusion , ” Northam wrote in his statement .
Every state is allowed two statues in the National Statuary Hall .
Lee ’ s monument was erected in 1909 along with a monument of George Washington as Virginia ’ s two picks .
That is a very interesting combo , to say the least .
Also , as Northam ’ s statement notes , this was only 44 years after the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to keep Black folks enslaved .
This is essentially like if The Force Awakens opened with the New Republic erecting a statue to Anakin Skywalker .
Yeah , he might have been a hero at one point , but he also killed the fuck out of those kids .
I may have spent my entire Sunday watching The Mandalorian and The Clone Wars , but it ’ s still a valid comparison , dammit .
The absurdity of the U.S. Capitol having monuments to a group of people who committed treason in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lost on Black lawmakers .
Former Illinois Rep. Jesse Jackson Jr. ( D ) would give tours of the hall where he pointed out all the monuments to Confederate figures .
Despite there being a history of Black politicians going “ Yo , this is fucked up , ” it ’ s ultimately up to the states to decide whether or not to replace the monuments .
Given that white people seem to have only realized racism was a thing after George Floyd died , it sadly makes sense why these monuments have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ commission that voted to remove the statue has suggested it be replaced with a monument to Barbara Johns .
After Johns led a student walkout to protest the inferior conditions of her all-Black school compared to a nearby all-white school , her case was taken up by two lawyers from the NAACP .
Her case was one of several reviewed by the Supreme Court in Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka , with it being seen as one of the pivotal steps towards desegregation .
Should the statue of Johns be approved @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the Hall ’ s collection .
For his part , Gov .
Northam seems to be behind the selection of Johns .
“ I look forward to seeing a trailblazing young woman of color represent Virginia in the U.S. Capitol , ” Northam wrote in his statement .
“ Visitors will learn about Barbara Johns ’ contributions to America and be empowered to create positive change in their communities just like she did .
”

The only thing weirder than the fact that a monument of a dude who straight up betrayed the United States exists in the nation’s Capitol, representing the state of Virginia, is the fact it’s been there for over 100 years. Well, at least it was, as Virginia has finally taken the step of removing the statue.
ABC News reports that Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam (D) revealed in a statement that workers removed the monument from the National Statuary Hall Collection on Monday morning. “The Confederacy is a symbol of Virginia’s racist and divisive history, and it is past time we tell our story with images of perseverance, diversity, and inclusion,” Northam wrote in his statement.
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Every state is allowed two statues in the National Statuary Hall. Lee’s monument was erected in 1909 along with a monument of George Washington as Virginia’s two picks. That is a very interesting combo, to say the least. Also, as Northam’s statement notes, this was only 44 years after the Confederacy launched its violent, failed bid to keep Black folks enslaved.
This is essentially like if The Force Awakens opened with the New Republic erecting a statue to Anakin Skywalker. Yeah, he might have been a hero at one point, but he also killed the fuck out of those kids.
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I may have spent my entire Sunday watching The Mandalorian and The Clone Wars, but it’s still a valid comparison, dammit.
The absurdity of the U.S. Capitol having monuments to a group of people who committed treason in the name of subjugation hasn’t been lost on Black lawmakers. Former Illinois Rep. Jesse Jackson Jr. (D) would give tours of the hall where he pointed out all the monuments to Confederate figures.
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Despite there being a history of Black politicians going “Yo, this is fucked up,” it’s ultimately up to the states to decide whether or not to replace the monuments. Given that white people seem to have only realized racism was a thing after George Floyd died, it sadly makes sense why these monuments have stood for so long.
The state commission that voted to remove the statue has suggested it be replaced with a monument to Barbara Johns. After Johns led a student walkout to protest the inferior conditions of her all-Black school compared to a nearby all-white school, her case was taken up by two lawyers from the NAACP. Her case was one of several reviewed by the Supreme Court in Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka, with it being seen as one of the pivotal steps towards desegregation.
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Should the statue of Johns be approved, she would be the only teenager in the Hall’s collection. For his part, Gov. Northam seems to be behind the selection of Johns.
“I look forward to seeing a trailblazing young woman of color represent Virginia in the U.S. Capitol,” Northam wrote in his statement. “Visitors will learn about Barbara Johns’ contributions to America and be empowered to create positive change in their communities just like she did.”


theroot--2020-12-21--Get up to $30 off Anker's Speakers at Best Buy Right Now

At some point , the speakers on your laptop or phone may not cut it any more .
You can @ @ @ @ @ laptop around the house while you do your chores , for instance , and its @ @ @ @ @ your neighbor ’ s lawnmower in the middle of a company meeting .
If you @ @ @ @ @ pair of headphones , you can always try out a good B luetooth speaker for @ @ @ @ @ now , Anker ’ s got a few on sale at Best Buy .
You @ @ @ @ @ 2 for $ 20 off , bringing it down to $ 50 .
For that @ @ @ @ @ an IP67 waterproof speaker with beat-syncing lights , and six lighting modes .
If your @ @ @ @ @ Anker ’ s Powerconference speaker is down to $ 100 from $ 130 , and @ @ @ @ @ full-room coverage , so you can feel like a hotshot and pace around your living @ @ @ @ @ session .

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

Anker Soundcore Flare 2 | $50 | Best Buy
Anker Powerconference | $100 | Best Buy
At some point, the speakers on your laptop or phone may not cut it any more. You can’t really carry your laptop around the house while you do your chores, for instance, and its speakers are no match for your neighbor’s lawnmower in the middle of a company meeting. If you’ve ruled out a pair of headphones, you can always try out a good B luetooth speaker for carrying a tune. Right now, Anker’s got a few on sale at Best Buy.
You can get the Soundcore Flare 2 for $20 off, bringing it down to $50. For that, you’ll get an IP67 waterproof speaker with beat-syncing lights, and six lighting modes.
If your needs are more work-focused, Anker’s Powerconference speaker is down to $100 from $130, and comes with six microphones for full-room coverage, so you can feel like a hotshot and pace around your living room during your next brainstorm session.


theroot--2020-12-21--Need a Creative Spark? The Cast and Crew of Pixar's Soul Got You, Boo

This year has done a number on us all in various ways .
The “ spare time ” we ’ ve been afforded during the lockdown has also made more room for extra existential thoughts .
Cue Pixar ’ s first film with a Black lead character , Soul , which explores the possibilities of the meaning of life .
The synopsis for Soul , per a press release sent to The Root : What is it that makes you ... YOU ?
Pixar Animation Studios ’ all-new feature film “ Soul ” introduces Joe Gardner ( voice of Jamie @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gets the chance of a lifetime to play at the best jazz club in town .
But one small misstep takes him from the streets of New York City to The Great Before—a fantastical place where new souls get their personalities , quirks and interests before they go to Earth .
Determined to return to his life , Joe teams up with a precocious soul , 22 ( voice of Tina Fey ) , who has never understood the appeal of the human experience .
As Joe desperately tries to show 22 what @ @ @ @ @ @ @ may just discover the answers to some of life ’ s most important questions .
For my fellow creators out there , one of the most gut-wrenching things we can experience is a creative block .
With the lockdown , that block may have been exacerbated for some .
Joe also has to navigate this struggle in some way with his music in the film .
Thus , I asked the cast and crew of Soul to give us some creative nuggets .
“ You actually have to put your creative on a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ Don ’ t think of it as like , ‘ I got to create something special.
’ Most of the people that are successful in our business are people that can complete the task .
You will see a lot of talented people with great big ideas , but don ’ t know how to actually mechanically complete the task .
So , if you ’ re super , super , super creative , make sure you get either you or someone who can help you mechanically get through those things so @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , at least your engine ’ s still churning.
” “ Go back and remember those times when you were unstuck—what supported you , what encouraged you , what sparked you , “ Angela Bassett , who portrays legendary jazz musician Dorothea in the film , added .
“ You ’ re just stuck—it ’ s not like it disappeared .
Don ’ t be too hard on yourself .
Sometimes you have to sit and wait for the muse to show up.
” Get into the array of answers from Foxx , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” Thompson , producer Dana Murray , director Pete Doctor and director Kemp Powers above and be inspired , just as I have .

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Black News and Black Views with a Whole Lotta Attitude


theroot--2020-12-21--Jrue Holiday Will Donate His NBA Salary This Season to Black-Owned Businesses, Nonprofits and Initia

Jrue Holiday Will Donate His NBA Salary This Season to Black-Owned Businesses, Nonprofits and Initiatives

Not only is Milwaukee Bucks guard Jrue Holiday a beast on both ends of the court , but by all accounts , he ’ s long been one of the best teammates in the entire league—as evidenced by the fact that he received the 2019-20 Twyman-Stokes Teammate of the Year Award last season .
So , with him being renowned within NBA circles for his kindness and tremendous leadership qualities , it should come as no surprise that the UCLA alum is extending that same generosity outside of the locker room by donating his salary this season to Black-owned businesses @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Instagram , Holiday explained how the COVID-19 pandemic factored into his decision .
“ With the Covid-19 Pandemic and heightened racial injustices in 2020 , many of us have been looking for answers , ” he wrote .
“ [ My wife ] Lauren & I found ourselves searching for ways to help our community at a time when they needed it most .
Pledging the remainder of our 2020 NBA salary to small black-owned businesses , nonprofits and initiatives is how we felt we could make a lasting impact .
“ According @ @ @ @ @ @ @ worldwide searches for “ support small business ” doubled compared to the previous year .
It ’ s encouraging to know that in a time when we could all use a helping hand , we are still searching for ways to help one another .
Know that you are not alone in your search for answers.
” Wow .
‘ Tis the season of giving , indeed .
Holiday has yet to identify any of the organizations or businesses that he ’ ll be lending a helping hand to , but for those @ @ @ @ @ @ @ jaw-dropping $ 26 million back into our community should he keep his word and donate his salary this season—and this isn ’ t a one-time thing or a fluke .
Last season , he donated over $ 5 million of his salary to Black-owned businesses and nonprofits in New Orleans , Indianapolis , Los Angeles/Compton , and other cities .
He also cut a $ 500,000 check to HBCUs .
This is a hell of a way to leave a lasting impression on his new teammates in Milwaukee and hopefully , we see @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s lead .

Not only is Milwaukee Bucks guard Jrue Holiday a beast on both ends of the court, but by all accounts, he’s long been one of the best teammates in the entire league—as evidenced by the fact that he received the 2019-20 Twyman-Stokes Teammate of the Year Award last season.
So, with him being renowned within NBA circles for his kindness and tremendous leadership qualities, it should come as no surprise that the UCLA alum is extending that same generosity outside of the locker room by donating his salary this season to Black-owned businesses and nonprofits.
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In a post on Instagram, Holiday explained how the COVID-19 pandemic factored into his decision.
“With the Covid-19 Pandemic and heightened racial injustices in 2020, many of us have been looking for answers,” he wrote. “[My wife] Lauren & I found ourselves searching for ways to help our community at a time when they needed it most. Pledging the remainder of our 2020 NBA salary to small black-owned businesses, nonprofits and initiatives is how we felt we could make a lasting impact.
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“According to @google, in 2020, worldwide searches for “support small business” doubled compared to the previous year. It’s encouraging to know that in a time when we could all use a helping hand, we are still searching for ways to help one another. Know that you are not alone in your search for answers.”
Wow. ‘Tis the season of giving, indeed.
Holiday has yet to identify any of the organizations or businesses that he’ll be lending a helping hand to, but for those wondering, he could be pouring a jaw-dropping $26 million back into our community should he keep his word and donate his salary this season—and this isn’t a one-time thing or a fluke.
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Last season, he donated over $5 million of his salary to Black-owned businesses and nonprofits in New Orleans, Indianapolis, Los Angeles/Compton, and other cities. He also cut a $500,000 check to HBCUs.
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This is a hell of a way to leave a lasting impression on his new teammates in Milwaukee and hopefully, we see other players throughout the league follow Holiday’s lead.