theroot--2020-12-15--The Robot Vacuums Moms (and Pet Owners) Love

Robot vacuums are hot right now !
With countless options available and price points ranging from a buck and a half to a grand or more , it can be tough to pinpoint which one you need and when the extra money makes sense .
I ’ ve tried all of these brands , but I don ’ t have dogs , birds , or kids , so I don ’ t put mine through rigorous daily usage .
I went asked pet owners and daily users how they decided which one to buy , how it ’ s been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , if there ’ s anything they aren ’ t thrilled with .
Their consensus is crystal .
A robot vacuum saves time and takes one of the bigger cleaning tasks off a busy parent ’ s list .
Pets don ’ t seem to be bothered by them , and the more tech you get , the less you have to think about vacuuming .
Dawn McCarthy , a TV personality and a lifestyle advisor is also a dog mom .
When she started to shop for a vacuum , she wanted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with pet hair , with a big enough chamber that it would have enough room .
Yeedi quickly rose to the top of her list .
“ With the dual chambers , it truly does a great job .
I like that it works on hardwood floors , and easily glides over many of my thicker rugs as well , ” McCarthy told me .
But that wasn ’ t the only reason she bought it .
“ This was selling on Amazon for about half the price as others on the market.
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ lost , McCarthy says that she wishes it had a “ Find my Yeedi ” function .
In spite of that , she ’ s smitten .
It ’ s quiet and gets the job done daily .
“ For me personally , this has lived up to the hype , and again for dog parents who tend to have more hair everywhere in the house with their pets , this truly does a great job , ” she told me .
“ Three kids and a golden retriever who sheds like crazy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Pechan of Monterey Bay , California .
“ The Neato helped eliminate an item off our chore list.
” As a parent , taking an item off the list , and the ever-evolving to-do list , Pechan appreciates it ’ s technical abilities .
“ It ’ s nice to have the programmed schedule , so it ’ s one less thing to think about.
” For Alan Ulicny of Buffalo , NY , simplicity is key to his family of four and two cats .
“ This unit does a great job @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , he tells me .
“ It does a great job navigating and by the map it generates , gets to over 95 % of the floor space.
” Sometimes the Neato unit gets lost and Pechan has to find it , and other times , it gets clogged up by the sand the family tecks into the house after a beach outing .
But all and all , it ’ s “ a fantastic helper for this busy family , ” she tells me .
“ Our experience has been fantastic , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ house now gets regular vacuuming and the cats are not bothered by it at all .
We do pick up any small items before running it and it can get caught on the occasional rug edge , but this is a truly serious vacuum and it ’ s fun to watch.
” Best , According to Consumer Reports : Jeanne Sager is a pet owner in Upstate New York .
She tells me about getting the Eufy RoboVac 11S .
“ I got sick of constantly having to either drag a vacuum around @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up with the tumbleweeds of hair , Sager said .
“ A robot vacuum seemed like a good option since I could essentially ‘ set it and forget it.
’ ” Vacuums are an investment , so Sager did a lot of research before settling on the Eufy vacuum cleaner .
It was well rated for fluffy pet hair , but it also stood out for another reason .
“ I was looking for a vacuum with a low profile that would still be able to get underneath the couch and capture the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ without me having to move the furniture.
” Like any vacuum cleaner , it isn ’ t perfect , but for $ 150 , it ’ s worth the money despite some minor qualms .
Sager says the Eufy didn ’ t work so well with her area rugs .
In fact , she tells me , “ I eventually had to rid my downstairs of all area rugs because I was constantly having to jump up and disentangle the vacuum and rug.
” “ I don ’ t use it every day @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
With area rugs and a family that lease socks and other small items around , it ’ s not as easy as she thought it would be to use .
“ That said , I do still like it over a big traditional vacuum.
” Kellie McGinnis and Natalie Craig both own and love the Roborock S4 .
Both are pet parents and that was one of the many reasons that they invested in the vacuum .
“ The reviews for the Roborock were hard to beat—barely any complaints , so that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to go with that brand , ” McGinnis said to me .
“ I love that I can clean the whole house , a specific room , or even a specific zone .
I also love the no-go zone , especially during the holidays when I don ’ t want it to go near my Christmas tree.
” Craig , a Chicago based blogger , has a messy bird .
Eventually , she got tired of cleaning up after it multiple times a day , and a robot vacuum made perfect sense .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ on robot vacuums and I was impressed with the smart mapping features of the Roborock S4 , ” Craig tells me , as well as the suction force and the sweeping bristles.
” It ’ s these smart features that set the Roborock S4 from the more budget-friendly alternatives .
“ I knew it would be a smart and intuitive vacuum per the reviews , ” Craig says .
“ I am even more impressed than I thought regarding its intuitiveness.
” “ This is one of the best purchases I ’ ve @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ The only downside to the model I went with is that it is not self-emptying , but that was something I chose to compromise on to save some money .
”

Chaya M Milchtein on Roundups, shared by Gabe Carey to The Root

Featured Product: iRobot Roomba i3+ with Dirt Disposal | $549 | Amazon
Nobody wants to vacuum We’re all sick of it, and you know you’d give it up in a heartbeat if you could. Well, what if there was a way to have a strange little robotic disk do all of the work for you? What if there was a way to free yourself from this chore? Good news, that’s exactly what we’re going to tell you, because the best robot vacuums are no longer the ones that are extortionately unfathomably expensive.
Instead, you can get yourself a robovac for a lot cheaper than you might think, although you can also choose to spend a bit more if you’re looking for something bit fancier than the base models. A lot of robovacs now come with ways to help them navigate more efficiently, tackle tougher areas, and even learn your cleaning habits to choose the best times to get the work down. No matter what you’re looking for, we’ve got you covered with our list of the best robot vacuums.
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The iRobot Roomba i3+ was named one of Gizmodo’s Coolest Gadgets of 2020, and our colleagues appreciated this robovac particularly for its skills with sucking up pet hair, among other talents. It’s a mid-tier option with some premium features in the mix, such as the optional base station that automatically sucks the dirt out of your Roomba i3+ after each cycle. That means you don’t have to manually empty the robovac every single time.
Gizmodo’s Catie Keck said the Roomba i3+ helped her tame the dog fur tumbleweeds that previously dominated her space:
“I’d assumed that short of vacuuming my house virtually every day, multiple times a day, I’d have to come to terms with living like this, surrounded on all sides by my good girl’s no good shedding. That was until I met the Roomba i3+, a destroyer of dust bunnies and my secret to floors so clean I feel like I’m living in an entirely new home—no thanks at all to my pup.”
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Best Robot Vacuum for Pet Hair: Yeedi K650
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Dawn McCarthy, a TV personality and a lifestyle advisor, is also a dog mom. When she started to shop for a vacuum, she wanted to make sure it would be excellent with pet hair, with a big enough chamber that it would have enough room. Yeedi quickly rose to the top of her list.
“With the dual chambers, it truly does a great job. I like that it works on hardwood floors, and easily glides over many of my thicker rugs as well,” McCarthy told me. But that wasn’t the only reason she bought it. “This was selling on Amazon for about half the price as others on the market.”
Although the vacuum does occasionally get lost, McCarthy says that she wishes it had a “Find my Yeedi” function. In spite of that, she’s smitten. It’s quiet and gets the job done daily.
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“For me personally, this has lived up to the hype, and again for dog parents who tend to have more hair everywhere in the house with their pets, this truly does a great job,” she told me.
Best According to Consumer Reports: Eufy RoboVac 11S
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Jeanne Sager is a pet owner in Upstate New York. She tells me about getting the Eufy RoboVac 11S. “I got sick of constantly having to either drag a vacuum around or to sweep in order to keep up with the tumbleweeds of hair, Sager said. “A robot vacuum seemed like a good option since I could essentially ‘set it and forget it.’”
Vacuums are an investment, so Sager did a lot of research before settling on the Eufy vacuum cleaner. It was well rated for fluffy pet hair, but it also stood out for another reason. “I was looking for a vacuum with a low profile that would still be able to get underneath the couch and capture the dust bunnies and fur that collects there without me having to move the furniture.”
Like any vacuum cleaner, it isn’t perfect, but for $220, it’s worth the money despite some minor qualms. Sager says the Eufy didn’t work so well with her area rugs. In fact, she tells me, “I eventually had to rid my downstairs of all area rugs because I was constantly having to jump up and disentangle the vacuum and rug.”
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“I don’t use it every day anymore,” Sager shared with me. With area rugs and a family that lease socks and other small items around, it’s not as easy as she thought it would be to use. “That said, I do still like it over a big traditional vacuum.”
The RoboVac 11S MAX boosts the suction power from 1,300Pa to 2,000Pa for extra force. The base 11S model boasts a suction power of 1,300Pa , while the 11S MAX edition boosts that up to 2,000Pa.
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We obviously prefer affordability where possible, but if you’ve got a bit of money to spend and you’re after a robot that can not only vacuum, but also mop the floor, then we’ve got just the thing for you. The Ecovacs Deebot N8 Pro+ is definitely one of the best robot vacuums going, and certainly one of the best robot vacuum and mop combos. We at The Inventory reviewed it a while ago, and our reviewer was very happy with it.
It has 2,600Pa suction, laser mapping and time-of-flight sensors to map your space out properly, and while the mop functionality isn’t what we’d call hardcore, it still does a good enough job to make sure your floors look a bit cleaner than normal. Plus, it even auto-empties itself at its special station. Now, for $800, it’s not the cheapest around, but it does go on sale now and then, so it’s worth wishlisting if you want to pick one up when that happens.
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Best Budget Robot Vacuum and Mop: Eufy RoboVac G30 Hybrid
Now, just because your want one of the best robot vacuum and mops around, it doesn’t mean you want to spend all of the money on it. Instead, you can grab Eufy’s RoboVac G30 Hybrid for $370 at full price, but at the moment it’s down to $250, which is excellent value. The multi-talented Wes Davis talks about it in more detail in their review of this unit, and while they admit it’s not the precise one he’s ever used, he was still quite happy with it overall.
“With a clean, fairly robust app interface, extremely quiet operation, and easy maintenance, the Eufy RoboVac G30 Hybrid sits pretty comfortably at its price point… a good value for those who keep things tidy enough to be cleaned on a schedule by a little geometric friend.”
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Best Reviewed Robot Vacuum : Roborock S4
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Kellie McGinnis and Natalie Craig both own and love the Roborock S4. Both are pet parents and that was one of the many reasons that they invested in the vacuum.
“The reviews for the Roborock were hard to beat—barely any complaints, so that made me feel secure in my decision to go with that brand,” McGinnis said to me. “I love that I can clean the whole house, a specific room, or even a specific zone. I also love the no-go zone, especially during the holidays when I don’t want it to go near my Christmas tree.”
Craig, a Chicago based blogger, has a messy bird. Eventually, she got tired of cleaning up after it multiple times a day, and a robot vacuum made perfect sense.
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“I did a lot of research on robot vacuums and I was impressed with the smart mapping features of the Roborock S4,” Craig tells me, as well as the suction force and the sweeping bristles.”
It’s these smart features that set the Roborock S4 from the more budget-friendly alternatives. “I knew it would be a smart and intuitive vacuum per the reviews,” Craig says. “I am even more impressed than I thought regarding its intuitiveness.”
“This is one of the best purchases I’ve made all year,” McGinnis says. “The only downside to the model I went with is that it is not self-emptying, but that was something I chose to compromise on to save some money.”
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This story was originally published by Chaya Milchtein on 12/15/20 and updated by Jason Coles with new information on 02/01/2022.


theroot--2020-12-16--Where Have You Been: Fenty Beauty Finally Announces New Pro Filt’r Soft Matte Powder Foundation and

Where Have You Been: Fenty Beauty Finally Announces New Pro Filt’r Soft Matte Powder Foundation and Gloss Bomb Cream

If there are three things I love in this life , it ’ s : good coffee , good dessert , and a good makeup day .
The latter of which I ’ m proud to say has become quite the norm over the last few years , thanks to my borderline obsession with makeup tutorials ( looking at you Jackie Aina ) .
But as any beauty-lover knows , the type of foundation you use can serve as either a bomb backdrop or bad distraction from the naturally beautiful features of your face .
But thanks to the latest @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fire-ass product at our disposal .
In a tweet sent out by the bad gal herself , Rihanna announced that Fenty ’ s cult-favorite Pro Filt ’ r foundation will soon be coming in pressed powder form .
“ Pro Filt ’ r foundation changed the beauty game like no other , and we not bout to stop now !
!
Introducing our brand NEW # PROFILTRPOWDERFOUNDATION I turned my favorite Pro Filt ’ r Foundation formula into pressed powder perfection !
!
!
Same 50 shades and soft matte finish , ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that ’ s right .
Your favorite liquid foundation will finally be available in a pressed powder and I , for one , am ready to tear down the walls of Sephora , like , yesterday .
Unfortunately for both you and me , we ’ ll have to wait until December 26th to get our hands on it .
But just judging off the description and past experience using Pro Filt ’ r foundation ( Shade 450 gang-gang ) , I ’ m sure it won ’ t disappoint .
More on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ award-winning foundation that forever changed the game , now in a longwear , light-as-air powder to deliver light to full coverage in a non-cakey soft matte finish in 50 shades for all .
It ’ s fast , flawless , easy .
Rihanna loves poreless , blurred-looking skin but could never find the perfect powder to satisfy her needs .
After 3 years of perfecting this formula , she developed the ultimate powder that makes skin look like skin , not cakey , and works on all skin types and tones .
It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ go and she always has this in her purse .
But wait , there ’ s more : The Fenty Beauty fam also released a new line of Gloss Bomb Cream—the turned-up , creamier play cousin to the original Gloss Bomb .
Rih took to Instagram last week to showcase the cool colors and honestly , I ’ m just mad that she mastered IG reels faster than I did .
The Gloss Bomb Creams , which are available now come in five shades : Cookie Jar , Honey Waffles , Fruit Snackz @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Glow .
And to get on the email list for that new Pro Filt ’ r drop , head to fentybeauty.com .

Shanelle Genai on The Glow Up, shared by Shanelle Genai to The Root

If there are three things I love in this life, it’s: good coffee, good dessert, and a good makeup day. The latter of which I’m proud to say has become quite the norm over the last few years, thanks to my borderline obsession with makeup tutorials (looking at you Jackie Aina). But as any beauty-lover knows, the type of foundation you use can serve as either a bomb backdrop or bad distraction from the naturally beautiful features of your face. But thanks to the latest Fenty Beauty drop, we have another fire-ass product at our disposal.
In a tweet sent out by the bad gal herself, Rihanna announced that Fenty’s cult-favorite Pro Filt’r foundation will soon be coming in pressed powder form.
Advertisement
“Pro Filt’r foundation changed the beauty game like no other, and we not bout to stop now!! Introducing our brand NEW #PROFILTRPOWDERFOUNDATION I turned my favorite Pro Filt’r Foundation formula into pressed powder perfection!!! Same 50 shades and soft matte finish,” the ANTI artist said.
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Yup, that’s right. Your favorite liquid foundation will finally be available in a pressed powder and I, for one, am ready to tear down the walls of Sephora, like, yesterday. Unfortunately for both you and me, we’ll have to wait until December 26th to get our hands on it. But just judging off the description and past experience using Pro Filt’r foundation (Shade 450 gang-gang), I’m sure it won’t disappoint. More on the drop via Fenty Beauty:
The award-winning foundation that forever changed the game, now in a longwear, light-as-air powder to deliver light to full coverage in a non-cakey soft matte finish in 50 shades for all. It’s fast, flawless, easy. Rihanna loves poreless, blurred-looking skin but could never find the perfect powder to satisfy her needs. After 3 years of perfecting this formula, she developed the ultimate powder that makes skin look like skin, not cakey, and works on all skin types and tones. It’s the perfect filter on the go and she always has this in her purse.
Advertisement
But wait, there’s more: The Fenty Beauty fam also released a new line of Gloss Bomb Cream—the turned-up, creamier play cousin to the original Gloss Bomb. Rih took to Instagram last week to showcase the cool colors and honestly, I’m just mad that she mastered IG reels faster than I did.
Advertisement
The Gloss Bomb Creams, which are available now come in five shades: Cookie Jar, Honey Waffles, Fruit Snackz, Mauve Wive$, and Fenty Glow. And to get on the email list for that new Pro Filt’r drop, head to fentybeauty.com.


theroot--2020-12-16--Virtual Talent Show at Sacramento State University Zoom-Bombed by Racists

A virtual talent show held for students at Sacramento State University was Zoom-bombed by two people who felt the need to drop racial slurs .
According to ABC 10 , earlier this month , towards the end of an event called “ Sac State ’ s Got Talent , ” two unknown individuals managed to get into the chat and fill it with racial slurs .
Screenshots acquired by the school ’ s newspaper , the State Hornet , show that someone with the username “ David Winley ” left a giant block of text that repeatedly said : “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ A second user , with the name “ Mike Nicholas ” wrote , “ Just going to be honest fuck Black Lives Matter , George Floyd od on drugs.
” This is one of those stories that make ask “ What the fuck are people doing with their time ?
” I simply don ’ t understand the desire to be an inflammatory asshole .
What is gained here ?
You only have a finite amount of time on this planet and this is how you decide to spend it ?
Anyway , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ find the folks responsible for the incident or figure out if the people responsible were students at the university .
Robert Nelson , university president , sent a message to students calling the incident “ abominable.
” “ Sacramento State condemns the hateful , racist comments that were posted , and we must come together , as a caring campus , to support one another when faced with this type , or any type of racism , ” Nelson wrote .
The school is currently in the process of crafting an antiracist initiative @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to come up with an actionable plan to prevent incidents like these from happening in the future .
Brian Blomster , director of news and communications for Sac State , told the Hornet that should the people responsible be found to be members of the university they would face punishment .
“ Such comments could be considered a Hornet honor code violation , and sanctions based on such violations could be imposed , ” Blomster wrote in an email .

A virtual talent show held for students at Sacramento State University was Zoom-bombed by two people who felt the need to drop racial slurs.
According to ABC 10, earlier this month, towards the end of an event called “Sac State’s Got Talent,” two unknown individuals managed to get into the chat and fill it with racial slurs. Screenshots acquired by the school’s newspaper, the State Hornet, show that someone with the username “David Winley” left a giant block of text that repeatedly said: “I HATE NIGGERS KILL ALL NIGGERS.” A second user, with the name “Mike Nicholas” wrote, “Just going to be honest fuck Black Lives Matter, George Floyd od on drugs.”
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This is one of those stories that make ask “What the fuck are people doing with their time?” I simply don’t understand the desire to be an inflammatory asshole. What is gained here? You only have a finite amount of time on this planet and this is how you decide to spend it?
Couldn’t be me.
Anyway, investigators at the school couldn’t find the folks responsible for the incident or figure out if the people responsible were students at the university. Robert Nelson, university president, sent a message to students calling the incident “abominable.”
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“Sacramento State condemns the hateful, racist comments that were posted, and we must come together, as a caring campus, to support one another when faced with this type, or any type of racism,” Nelson wrote.
The school is currently in the process of crafting an antiracist initiative and Nelson called on the related committees to come up with an actionable plan to prevent incidents like these from happening in the future.
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Brian Blomster, director of news and communications for Sac State, told the Hornet that should the people responsible be found to be members of the university they would face punishment.
“Such comments could be considered a Hornet honor code violation, and sanctions based on such violations could be imposed,” Blomster wrote in an email.


theroot--2020-12-15--Trust Me, This $1,000 Winter Jacket Is Worth the Investment

Walk around New York City in the winter and you ’ re bound to notice it .
It ’ s everywhere .
You ’ ll see it on the sleeves of businessmen , NYU students , and Brooklyn hipsters alike .
Pretty soon , like me , you may start to wonder what it is about that circular red and white logo that ’ s made it such an omnipresent force in the city .
Perhaps you ’ re inclined to find out .
I know I was .
That ’ s why when Canada Goose reached out to me @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their legendary parkas , a staple wardrobe piece for New Yorkers in the winter , I jumped at the opportunity to do so .
I won ’ t lie : even with the prestige the brand seemed to carry amongst friends , trusted writers , and New Yorkers who know better , the price tag on Canada Goose jackets is what stopped me from checking them out for the longest time .
Coming in at over $ 1,000 , it was the sort of expense I just couldn ’ t fathom .
It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hard to think about spending a thousand bucks on much of anything , you know ?
But when the jacket arrived and I was able to try it on amidst the brisk cold of a New York December , I quickly realized how wrong I ’ d been to think of a Canada Goose parka as an unnecessary extravagance .
This is , after all , a jacket people have summited Mount Everest in .
My walking across town ( or these days to pick up groceries and back , to be more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s the thing : if you ’ re reading this and live in a state where the winters are moderate , this review doesn ’ t necessarily apply to you .
I grew up in Richmond , Virginia , a place where the winters are far from mild ( we are , after all , right between mountains and the ocean ) but not unbearable by any means .
I was long able to get through the coldest months and the occasional snowfall with a leather jacket and hoodie combo , some gloves @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a chance you can say the same .
But I ’ ve now been in New York for nearly four years .
I don ’ t plan on leaving any time soon .
And winters here ?
They can be brutal ( DISCLAIMER : If you live in a colder city it ’ s fine , this isn ’ t a competition !
I ’ m sure Chicago and Toronto are very cold as well ! )
.
But stepping out in freezing cold , precipitation-heavy winter weather with a Canada Goose Langford @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Their Arctic Tech down cotton , which makes up the jacket ’ s exterior , proved instantly helpful in protecting against the elements ( rain and wind in this case ) while the two-way fur-lined down hood kept my head and neck shielded as well .
Sharp winds failed to cut through the jacket as they so often do in cheaper parkas I ’ ve used since moving here and despite the dense feather lining of the coat it never felt constricting , hard , or immobile .
It ’ s only improved @ @ @ @ @ @ @ broken the jacket in .
Rain , wind , cold mornings , cold evenings , and ( presumably , as we ’ ve yet to have any this season ) snow are no match for it .
It became a wardrobe staple so instantaneously that I quickly found myself reconsidering what spending a grand on a parka really represented .
When you live in a place prone to cold climates , a good jacket isn ’ t a luxury .
It ’ s a necessity .
Spending $ 1 , 000 on one @ @ @ @ @ @ @ amount of money on a pair of sneakers or a TV .
It ’ s more akin to a car repair or home improvement ; a necessity rather than a want .
A Canada Goose parka is going to last years and get daily use throughout the coldest months they bring .
It pays for itself quickly .
I started to wonder how I ’ d gone this long without one , relying instead on cheap hand-me-down parkas that didn ’ t safeguard me from the elements nearly as well as I needed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ realize that I ’ ll never make that mistake again , no matter where I live or what its climate requires of me .
Now I ’ ll address the elephant in the room : as I was sent a complimentary sample unit for review , you may think it ’ s a bit hypocritical of me to insist that it ’ s worth the money .
And hey , you ’ d be right !
But for what it ’ s worth , a loved one is going to have a Canada @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this holiday season and it ’ s one I paid full price for .
That ’ s how sold I was on the Langford after wearing it around for a few days .
Give it a shot .
It ’ s worth the investment .

Tres Dean on The Inventory, shared by Gabe Carey to The Root

Canada Goose Langford Parka | $1,050 | Canada Goose
Walk around New York City in the winter and you’re bound to notice it. It’s everywhere. You’ll see it on the sleeves of businessmen, NYU students, and Brooklyn hipsters alike. Pretty soon, like me, you may start to wonder what it is about that circular red and white logo that’s made it such an omnipresent force in the city. Perhaps you’re inclined to find out. I know I was. That’s why when Canada Goose reached out to me with the opportunity to learn more about their legendary parkas, a staple wardrobe piece for New Yorkers in the winter, I jumped at the opportunity to do so.
I won’t lie: even with the prestige the brand seemed to carry amongst friends, trusted writers, and New Yorkers who know better, the price tag on Canada Goose jackets is what stopped me from checking them out for the longest time. Coming in at over $1,000, it was the sort of expense I just couldn’t fathom. It’s nothing personal—it’s hard to think about spending a thousand bucks on much of anything, you know? But when the jacket arrived and I was able to try it on amidst the brisk cold of a New York December, I quickly realized how wrong I’d been to think of a Canada Goose parka as an unnecessary extravagance. This is, after all, a jacket people have summited Mount Everest in. My walking across town (or these days to pick up groceries and back, to be more accurate) hardly compares.
Here’s the thing: if you’re reading this and live in a state where the winters are moderate, this review doesn’t necessarily apply to you. I grew up in Richmond, Virginia, a place where the winters are far from mild (we are, after all, right between mountains and the ocean) but not unbearable by any means. I was long able to get through the coldest months and the occasional snowfall with a leather jacket and hoodie combo, some gloves, and boots. There’s a chance you can say the same.
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But I’ve now been in New York for nearly four years. I don’t plan on leaving any time soon. And winters here? They can be brutal (DISCLAIMER: If you live in a colder city it’s fine, this isn’t a competition! I’m sure Chicago and Toronto are very cold as well!). But stepping out in freezing cold, precipitation-heavy winter weather with a Canada Goose Langford parka on was a genuine revelation.
Their Arctic Tech down cotton, which makes up the jacket’s exterior, proved instantly helpful in protecting against the elements (rain and wind in this case) while the two-way fur-lined down hood kept my head and neck shielded as well. Sharp winds failed to cut through the jacket as they so often do in cheaper parkas I’ve used since moving here and despite the dense feather lining of the coat it never felt constricting, hard, or immobile.
It’s only improved over the weeks as I’ve broken the jacket in. Rain, wind, cold mornings, cold evenings, and (presumably, as we’ve yet to have any this season) snow are no match for it. It became a wardrobe staple so instantaneously that I quickly found myself reconsidering what spending a grand on a parka really represented.
Advertisement Advertisement
When you live in a place prone to cold climates, a good jacket isn’t a luxury. It’s a necessity. Spending $1,000 on one isn’t like dropping that same amount of money on a pair of sneakers or a TV. It’s more akin to a car repair or home improvement; a necessity rather than a want. A Canada Goose parka is going to last years and get daily use throughout the coldest months they bring. It pays for itself quickly. I started to wonder how I’d gone this long without one, relying instead on cheap hand-me-down parkas that didn’t safeguard me from the elements nearly as well as I needed them to. And it made me realize that I’ll never make that mistake again, no matter where I live or what its climate requires of me.
Now I’ll address the elephant in the room: as I was sent a complimentary sample unit for review, you may think it’s a bit hypocritical of me to insist that it’s worth the money. And hey, you’d be right! But for what it’s worth, a loved one is going to have a Canada Goose parka gifted to them from me this holiday season and it’s one I paid full price for. That’s how sold I was on the Langford after wearing it around for a few days. Give it a shot. It’s worth the investment.


theroot--2020-12-15--Churches Across the U.S. Are Launching Reparations Programs

The topic of reparations is a touchy one ... for white people .
While the American government hasn ’ t touched the topic in a serious way , churches across the country are taking it upon themselves to try and make amends for the role they played in the slave trade .
According to the Associated Press , there is a renewed interest among churches , particularly within the Episcopal Church , in creating programs and making financial investments that would benefit the Black community .
There has also been a growing effort to acknowledge the symbiotic relationship the church @ @ @ @ @ @ @ acknowledgments have come in many forms , from the Episcopal Diocese of Texas recognizing its first bishop was a slave owner , to an Episcopal church in New York City erecting a plaque noting that the building only stands due to wealth accumulated through slavery .
The Minnesota Council of Churches has launched a “ truth and reparations ” initiative that is in part modeled after the Truth and Reconciliation Commission established in South Africa post-apartheid .
“ Minnesota has some of the highest racial disparities in the country— in health , wealth @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , ” the council ’ s CEO , the Rev .
Curtiss DeYoung , told the AP .
“ Those disparities all come from a deep history of racism.
” DeYoung cited the police killing of George Floyd as being a “ call to action ” for the church .
“ The first thing that we did , of course , like everyone else , was get into the streets and march ... but there are deep , historic issues that require more than marching , ” DeYoung said .
Another notable aspect @ @ @ @ @ @ @ seeks to address social justice concerns of African Americans and Native Americans in a unified way , “ For so long these have been two separate camps — Indigenous people and African Americans felt they are competing against each other for the same limited resources , ” said the Rev .
Jim Bear Jacobs , a Native American who is the church council ’ s director of racial justice .
“ By bringing these two communities together , it removes that mindset of , ‘ We have to get ours , and that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ yours , ’ ” he said .
Jacobs belongs to a Wisconsin-based Mohican tribe but was born in Minnesota and is well-versed in the grim chapters of the latter ’ s history regarding Native Americans .
He cited the U.S.-Dakota War of 1862 , which ended with the internment of hundreds of Dakota people and the hanging of 38 Dakota men in Mankato — the largest mass execution in U.S. history .
After the war , many of the Dakota were expelled from the state .
The Episcopal Church has been leading the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Maryland , Texas , and New York all having launched programs over the last year .
In February , the d iocese in Texas made one of the largest pledges , allocating $ 13 million towards long-term programs that would benefit the Black community .
While the Episcopal Church has been notably active in creating these programs , there is no official policy on reparations within the church , with New York Bishop Andrew Dietsche telling the AP that “ Each diocese will make its own decisions how to do this work.
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ whole church is the recognition that it ’ s time to address and reckon with the wrongs and evils of our past , ” Dietsche added .
I can ’ t lie , this is all pretty cool .
I was aware of the role Christianity played in slavery , mainly the Bible being used to morally justify slavery , but I wasn ’ t aware that the church was active in the slave trade .
It ’ s kind of sad that the church is taking greater steps towards reparations than the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of “ well you weren ’ t a slave and I wasn ’ t a slave owner so reparations are pointless ” but that line of thinking ignores the basic fact that what happened in the past has shaped our present .
Eugene Sutton , the first Black cleric to become bishop of Maryland told the AP that he frequently talks with white people who hold that position and he finds it to be “ a false conception.
” “ Reparations is simply , ‘ What will this generation do to repair the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ... We may not all be guilty , but we all have a responsibility , ” Sutton told AP .
Other denominations have started taking similar steps toward reparations .
Certain conferences within the United Methodist Church are taking cues from the Episcopal Church as it explores programs that could potentially benefit the Black community .
Kenneth Carter , bishop of the UMC ’ s Florida Conference , has launched an anti-racism task force and told AP that financial reparations are a likely next step .
The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops hasn @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but a pastoral letter from 2018 did call for programs that would “ help repair the damages caused by racial discrimination.
” For certain Black Catholics , those lukewarm commitments aren ’ t enough , citing the church ’ s historical involvement in the slave trade and segregation .
Shannen Dee Williams , a Black historian at Villanova University , has proposed multiple initiatives that she believes the church should take .
These include a formal apology , providing greater access to Catholic schools in Black communities , and requiring Black Catholic history @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ Black Catholic history reminds us that the Church was never an innocent bystander in the histories of colonialism , slavery or segregation , ” Williams told AP in an email .

The topic of reparations is a touchy one...for white people. While the American government hasn’t touched the topic in a serious way, churches across the country are taking it upon themselves to try and make amends for the role they played in the slave trade.
According to the Associated Press, there is a renewed interest among churches, particularly within the Episcopal Church, in creating programs and making financial investments that would benefit the Black community. There has also been a growing effort to acknowledge the symbiotic relationship the church had with the slave trade.
Advertisement
These acknowledgments have come in many forms , from the Episcopal Diocese of Texas recognizing its first bishop was a slave owner, to an Episcopal church in New York City erecting a plaque noting that the building only stands due to wealth accumulated through slavery. The Minnesota Council of Churches has launched a “truth and reparations” initiative that is in part modeled after the Truth and Reconciliation Commission established in South Africa post-apartheid.
“Minnesota has some of the highest racial disparities in the country— in health, wealth, housing, how police treat folks,” the council’s CEO, the Rev. Curtiss DeYoung, told the AP. “Those disparities all come from a deep history of racism.”
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DeYoung cited the police killing of George Floyd as being a “call to action” for the church. “The first thing that we did, of course, like everyone else, was get into the streets and march ... but there are deep, historic issues that require more than marching, ” DeYoung said.
From Associated Press:
Another notable aspect of the Minnesota initiative is that it seeks to address social justice concerns of African Americans and Native Americans in a unified way, “For so long these have been two separate camps — Indigenous people and African Americans felt they are competing against each other for the same limited resources,” said the Rev. Jim Bear Jacobs, a Native American who is the church council’s director of racial justice. “By bringing these two communities together, it removes that mindset of, ‘We have to get ours, and that might mean you don’t get yours,’” he said. Jacobs belongs to a Wisconsin-based Mohican tribe but was born in Minnesota and is well-versed in the grim chapters of the latter’s history regarding Native Americans. He cited the U.S.-Dakota War of 1862, which ended with the internment of hundreds of Dakota people and the hanging of 38 Dakota men in Mankato — the largest mass execution in U.S. history. After the war, many of the Dakota were expelled from the state.
Advertisement
The Episcopal Church has been leading the way with reparations initiatives, with dioceses in Maryland, Texas, and New York all having launched programs over the last year. In February, the d iocese in Texas made one of the largest pledges, allocating $13 million towards long-term programs that would benefit the Black community.
While the Episcopal Church has been notably active in creating these programs, there is no official policy on reparations within the church, with New York Bishop Andrew Dietsche telling the AP that “Each diocese will make its own decisions how to do this work.”
Advertisement
“What is common across the whole church is the recognition that it’s time to address and reckon with the wrongs and evils of our past,” Dietsche added.
I can’t lie, this is all pretty cool. I was aware of the role Christianity played in slavery, mainly the Bible being used to morally justify slavery, but I wasn’t aware that the church was active in the slave trade. It’s kind of sad that the church is taking greater steps towards reparations than the government.
Advertisement
There is always the argument of “well you weren’t a slave and I wasn’t a slave owner so reparations are pointless” but that line of thinking ignores the basic fact that what happened in the past has shaped our present. Eugene Sutton, the first Black cleric to become bishop of Maryland told the AP that he frequently talks with white people who hold that position and he finds it to be “a false conception.”
“Reparations is simply, ‘What will this generation do to repair the damage caused by previous generations?’ ... We may not all be guilty, but we all have a responsibility,” Sutton told AP.
Advertisement
Other denominations have started taking similar steps toward reparations. Certain conferences within the United Methodist Church are taking cues from the Episcopal Church as it explores programs that could potentially benefit the Black community. Kenneth Carter, bishop of the UMC’s Florida Conference, has launched an anti-racism task force and told AP that financial reparations are a likely next step.
The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops hasn’t advocated for reparations by name but a pastoral letter from 2018 did call for programs that would “help repair the damages caused by racial discrimination.”
Advertisement
For certain Black Catholics, those lukewarm commitments aren’t enough, citing the church’s historical involvement in the slave trade and segregation. Shannen Dee Williams, a Black historian at Villanova University, has proposed multiple initiatives that she believes the church should take. These include a formal apology, providing greater access to Catholic schools in Black communities, and requiring Black Catholic history to be mandatory in these schools.
“Black Catholic history reminds us that the Church was never an innocent bystander in the histories of colonialism, slavery or segregation,” Williams told AP in an email.


theroot--2020-12-15--Bodycam Footage Shows Chicago Police Handcuffing a Naked Black Woman During Botched Home Raid

For nearly two years , Anjanette Young has been trying to get Chicago p olice to account for the harm caused to her during a botched raid , in which officers broke down her door with a battering ram , handcuffed her and turned over her home .
The entire time , Young , who had just stepped out of the shower when police showed up , was naked—and repeatedly told police they had the wrong home .
On Tuesday , CBS 2 Chicago published bodycam video of the raid , which Young , who recently obtained the footage as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ CPD , shared with the news station .
The video shows Young shocked , standing naked in the middle of her living room , when police burst through her home just after 7 pm on February 21 , 2019 .
“ It was so traumatic to hear the thing that was hitting the door , ” Young told CBS Chicago as we watched footage of the raid play before her .
“ And it happened so fast , I didn ’ t have time to put on clothes.
” Young was handcuffed and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ her home .
One officer wrapped a short coat around her shoulders—which still left her front and everything under her upper back exposed .
Another officer put a blanket on her , which kept sliding down because her hands were cuffed behind her back .
A licensed social worker who was living alone , a distraught Young asked officers repeatedly—43 times—why they were in her apartment , insisting they entered the wrong home .
Again and again , she asked them to let her put her clothes on .
“ I ’ ve @ @ @ @ @ @ @ nobody lives here but me , ” Young tells officers .
“ I ’ m telling you this is wrong , ” she continued .
“ I have nothing to do with whoever this person is you are looking for.
” Young was exposed for 13 minutes— “ it felt like forever , ” she told CBS 2—before a female officer finally walked Young back to her bedroom so she could get dressed .
Once she was clothed , however , police handcuffed her again .
But while the mistake CPD made was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a CBS 2 investigation—it appears the agency has yet to take responsibility for its mistake .
According to CBS 2 , which culled through police and court records , the police officers were searching for a 23-year-old felon who reportedly had a firearm and ammunition in his possession .
CPD conducted the raid off of an informant ’ s tip , but the informant gave them the wrong address .
The unit police intended to raid was actually next door to Young .
She had no connection to the suspect at all .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ raid in Young ’ s home hint at this .
From CBS 2 : In one clip , officers in a squad car reviewed their notes and can be heard talking .
CPD wouldn ’ t comment when CBS 2 asked what the conversation meant .
“ It wasn ’ t initially approved or some crap , ” one officer said .
“ What does that mean ?
” the second officer asked .
“ I have no idea , ” the first officer said .
“ I mean , they told him @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that person messed up on their end.
” A sergeant at Young ’ s home also can be shown asking the affiant officer—the person who obtained the warrant , as CBS 2 explains—to step outside to have a talk after it becomes clear that there are no weapons in the apartment .
When they stepped aside to talk , the officer turned their body camera off .
It wasn ’ t until 20 minutes after police barged through her door that police finally removed the handcuffs from Young ’ s wrists .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , ” the sergeant told her .
“ I assure you that the city will be in contact with you tomorrow.
” The entire incident could have been avoided , CBS 2 points out .
Police could have vetted the informant ’ s tip and confirmed the suspect ’ s whereabouts by tracking the electronic monitoring device he was wearing .
Whatever explanations the police have for raiding the wrong home , however , Young has had to live with the consequences .
Young cried or fought tears while reflecting on the interactions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ telling reporters , “ It ’ s one of those moments where I felt I could have died ... Like if I would have made one wrong move , it felt like they would have shot me .
I truly believe they would have shot me.
” She no longer feels safe in her home , she told CBS 2 .
And as traumatic as it is for her to relive the incident , she has shared footage of her at her most anguished and vulnerable with the public because she hopes it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ execute search warrants more carefully .
“ That piece of paper gives them the right to , you know , that says you can do X , Y , Z based on what ’ s on that paper , ” Young said .
“ So if you get it wrong , you are taking 100 percent control of someone else ’ s life and treating them in a bad way.
” As of late last month , the Civilian Office of Police Accountability ( COPA ) said it was still investigating the 2019 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of other Chicago families that have filed lawsuits against CPD for conducting these harrowing raids in the wrong homes .
Those affected by botched home raids are disproportionately Black and Latinx households .
“ 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 , ” Young ’ s attorney Keenan Saulter told CBS 2 .
“ I think [ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , 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 .
”

For nearly two years, Anjanette Young has been trying to get Chicago p olice to account for the harm caused to her during a botched raid, in which officers broke down her door with a battering ram, handcuffed her and turned over her home. The entire time, Young, who had just stepped out of the shower when police showed up, was naked—and repeatedly told police they had the wrong home.
On Tuesday, CBS 2 Chicago published bodycam video of the raid, which Young, who recently obtained the footage as part of an ongoing legal battle with CPD, shared with the news station.
Advertisement
The video shows Young shocked, standing naked in the middle of her living room, when police burst through her home just after 7 pm on February 21, 2019.
“It was so traumatic to hear the thing that was hitting the door,” Young told CBS Chicago as we watched footage of the raid play before her. “And it happened so fast, I didn’t have time to put on clothes.”
Advertisement Advertisement
Young was handcuffed and stood exposed as she watched police search her home. One officer wrapped a short coat around her shoulders—which still left her front and everything under her upper back exposed. Another officer put a blanket on her, which kept sliding down because her hands were cuffed behind her back.
A licensed social worker who was living alone, a distraught Young asked officers repeatedly—43 times—why they were in her apartment, insisting they entered the wrong home. Again and again, she asked them to let her put her clothes on.
Advertisement
“I’ve been living here for four years and nobody lives here but me,” Young tells officers.
“I’m telling you this is wrong,” she continued. “I have nothing to do with whoever this person is you are looking for.”
Advertisement
Young was exposed for 13 minutes—“it felt like forever,” she told CBS 2—before a female officer finally walked Young back to her bedroom so she could get dressed. Once she was clothed, however, police handcuffed her again.
But while the mistake CPD made was clear to Young—and was later verified by a CBS 2 investigation—it appears the agency has yet to take responsibility for its mistake.
Advertisement
According to CBS 2, which culled through police and court records, the police officers were searching for a 23-year-old felon who reportedly had a firearm and ammunition in his possession. CPD conducted the raid off of an informant’s tip, but the informant gave them the wrong address. The unit police intended to raid was actually next door to Young. She had no connection to the suspect at all.
Snippets of conversation between officers during the raid in Young’s home hint at this. From CBS 2:
In one clip, officers in a squad car reviewed their notes and can be heard talking. CPD wouldn’t comment when CBS 2 asked what the conversation meant. “It wasn’t initially approved or some crap,” one officer said. “What does that mean?” the second officer asked. “I have no idea,” the first officer said. “I mean, they told him it was approved, then I guess that person messed up on their end.”
Advertisement
A sergeant at Young’s home also can be shown asking the affiant officer—the person who obtained the warrant, as CBS 2 explains—to step outside to have a talk after it becomes clear that there are no weapons in the apartment.
When they stepped aside to talk, the officer turned their body camera off.
It wasn’t until 20 minutes after police barged through her door that police finally removed the handcuffs from Young’s wrists.
Advertisement
“I do apologize for bothering you tonight,” the sergeant told her. “I assure you that the city will be in contact with you tomorrow.”
The entire incident could have been avoided, CBS 2 points out. Police could have vetted the informant’s tip and confirmed the suspect’s whereabouts by tracking the electronic monitoring device he was wearing. Whatever explanations the police have for raiding the wrong home, however, Young has had to live with the consequences.
Advertisement
Young cried or fought tears while reflecting on the interactions she had with police that night, telling reporters, “It’s one of those moments where I felt I could have died...Like if I would have made one wrong move, it felt like they would have shot me. I truly believe they would have shot me.”
She no longer feels safe in her home, she told CBS 2. And as traumatic as it is for her to relive the incident, she has shared footage of her at her most anguished and vulnerable with the public because she hopes it may protect others by pushing cops to execute search warrants more carefully.
Advertisement
“That piece of paper gives them the right to, you know, that says you can do X, Y, Z based on what’s on that paper,” Young said. “So if you get it wrong, you are taking 100 percent control of someone else’s life and treating them in a bad way.”
As of late last month, the Civilian Office of Police Accountability (COPA) said it was still investigating the 2019 raid.
Advertisement
Young has joined a number of other Chicago families that have filed lawsuits against CPD for conducting these harrowing raids in the wrong homes. Those affected by botched home raids are disproportionately Black and Latinx households.
“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,” Young’s attorney Keenan Saulter told CBS 2. “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.”


theroot--2020-12-15--Know Your Worth: Viola Davis Is Every Black Woman in Ma Rainey's Black Bottom

“ Society ’ s most definitely failed Black women .
Without question ...
I don ’ t think that we were thought of .
We were seen as chattel .
We were seen as just , you know , something that was bought on the auction block ... And now we ’ re living in a culture that just reduces us to strong ; to almost masculine in nature .
There ’ s no sense of wanting to protect us.
” — Viola Davis , Actor If her roles as Annalise Keating in How to Get Away with Murder , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in The Help haven ’ t convinced you , no doubt Davis ’ s performance in Netflix ’ s Ma Rainey ’ s Black Bottom will make you a believer .
Davis commands the screen—audiences will not be disappointed .
Promise .
Perhaps the power of the performance is Viola Davis ’ strength of spirit .
I ’ d argue that the 55-year-old actor shares some similarities with the iconic chanteuse .
Ma Rainey and Davis are both Black women who understand—and demand—their worth .
In all circumstances .
Indeed , Ma Rainey @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had power .
She also understood that white record execs wanted her voice ; without it , she would be just another Black bisexual woman from the South .
In the film Ma says this , referring to white record execs , “ You ’ re colored and you can make them some money , then you ’ re alright with them.
” She continued , “ Otherwise , you ’ re just a dog in some alley.
” Given that Black women have engaged in an ongoing fight to place their stake @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of spheres ) , we c ouldn ’ t help ask D avis if—and how—she felt that society had failed us .
There is no ambiguity for the triple- crown actor .
“ Society ’ s most definitely failed Black women.
” Davis continued , “ We were seen as chattel .
We were seen as just , you know , something that was bought on an on the auction block.
” And now we ’ re living in a culture that just reduces us to strong ; to almost masculine in nature @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wanting to protect us .
”

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Black News and Black Views with a Whole Lotta Attitude


theroot--2020-12-15--The 10 Best Deals of December 15, 2020

The 10 Best Deals of December 15, 2020

It ’ s December 15 , and we at Kinja Deals are here to bring you the top 10 deals of the day .
Buy a new TCL 50 '' LED 4K Smart TV .
Score an Apple Watch SE for your favorite auntie .
And get creative with your cooking in an Instant Pot Duo Nova .
If you ’ re still craving more deals , take a peek at Tuesday ’ s best deals overall .
Look , we should all be staying home and staying put for the next several weeks .
You know it , I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ too .
This 50-inch TCL LED 4K smart TV is down to only $ 250 so you can snuggle up on the couch with all your favorite shows , movies , or your console of choice for less right now .
Since it ’ s a smart TV , it has built-in access to Netflix and all the other popular streaming options .
This price is a $ 120 discount and is lower than you can find it for on Target and even Amazon .
Don ’ t let it pass you by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Elizabeth Lanier .
No , it ’ s not an iPad—but Amazon does right by parents with its Fire Kids Edition tablets .
As you ’ ll see from the image , they ’ re wrapped in a thick rubber shell/convertible stand that helps protect it from dings and drops .
Still , kids will find a way to break almost anything , and Amazon is ready there too .
Each Kids Edition tablet has a 2-year worry-free guarantee , so if your child still manages to bust the thing , you ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Amazon ’ s marketplace has a wide array of games , apps , books , and streaming services available , and the Kids Edition comes with the handy bonus of a year ’ s subscription to Amazon FreeTime Unlimited .
The gated-off service provides a wealth of kid-friendly content within a colorful launcher , and then you can choose whether or not to pay monthly once the year is done .
Right now , Amazon is knocking $ 30 off the 7 '' tablet or $ 40 off the 8 ” HD tablet @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bring one ( or more ) of these durable devices into your family .
Grab ‘ em in blue , purple , and pink .
This deal was originally published by Andrew Hayward .
As my lovely wife elegantly put it in her review for Gizmodo , “ the Watch SE performs like a high-end smartwatch without the high-end price tag.
” With the processor of a Series 5 and the optical heart rate sensor of a Series 6 , some would argue the Apple Watch SE is the one to buy this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an Apple Watch 3 or older .
Although for some reason Apple still sells the Series 3 ( but not the Series 4 or Series 5 ) , tech experts speculate it won ’ t be supported for much longer .
And with the 44mm Apple Watch SE now on sale for $ 250 in Space Gray—marked down from $ 309—the choice is clear for those on the fence about which model to buy .
In comparison , the “ bigger ” Series 3 model is 2mm smaller and costs only $ 30 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the comparably sized Series 6 , you can secure Apple ’ s other Watch released this year and remain confident it ’ ll get the latest software updates for years to come .
Be that as it may , there is one caveat to this offer .
Only the Space Gray 44mm option is marked down $ 59 , meaning if you ’ re hoping to rock the Silver aluminum case , you ’ ll have to pay a still-discounted $ 280 , though the Gold model is not on sale .
As @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , I have to say , there ’ s nothing it won ’ t match , and unlike some colors ( looking at you , Rose Gold ) , historical evidence suggests Space Gray is here for the long haul .
Silver and Gold Apple Watch SE models are also available for $ 250 in the smaller 40mm form factor .
Tiny wrists rise up !
As Victoria puts it , the Apple Watch SE is the one to buy over the dead-in-the-water Series 3 , and even the Series 6 , which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in September : This deal was originally published by Gabe Carey .
Star Wars is back , baby .
I mean , it never went anywhere I suppose , but people seem to care about it again thanks to The Mandalorian ’ s second season .
To celebrate the occasion , here ’ s a genuinely good deal : the Microsoft Store currently has a bundle of EA Star Wars games on sale for $ 40 for Xbox consoles .
The package includes Star Wars Squadrons , Jedi : Fallen Order , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ $ 40 and that just came out a few months ago , so it ’ s almost like you get two free games when you buy it .
Or it ’ s like you ’ re getting each game for $ 13 .
Whichever way you slice the math , it ’ s a solid deal on three games that are fun additions to the long line of Star Wars games .
This deal was originally published by Giovanni Colantonio .
Mortal Kombat 11 released about a year and a half ago , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there ’ s already a third separate retail release for the latest entry in the legendary series .
Just launched alongside the new consoles , Mortal Kombat 11 Ultimate bundles the core game with all of the bonus add-on characters released to date , including a surprising array of guest pop culture characters ( kharacters ? )
ranging from The Joker and Spawn to Robocop and John Rambo .
Of course , you also get MK legends like Sub-Zero and Scorpion in the mix , along with an array of other fighters new @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an array of visual enhancements to take advantage of the new hardware .
Right now , Amazon has both the PlayStation 5 and Xbox ( Series X/S and One ) versions for $ 20 off the full list price .
This deal was originally published by Andrew Hayward .
If you ’ re tired of dealing with a clogged kitchen sink , now ’ s the time to grab a garbage disposal—especially if you have a holiday feast on the horizon .
Waste King is one of the leading brands in the space @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up to 64 % off of its garbage disposals .
Right now , you can get a 1/3HP 1900RPM model for just $ 33 , a huge savings from the $ 90 list price , or you can bump up to a 1/2HP 2600RPM version for only two bucks more .
There ’ s also a 3/4HP model for $ 69 or 1HP version for $ 84 if you need more slice-and-dice power , and they collectively have a stellar 4.5-star rating from 9,000+ Amazon customers .
This deal was originally published by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ much to say about the Instant Pot Duo Nova that hasn ’ t been said before , but the 7-in-1 pressure cooker is down to $ 60 which is only $ 10 higher than its lowest price of $ 50 !
You ’ ll save and be able to cook whatever the hell you want with the touch of a button .
Plus , it comes in three cute colors to match the rest of the decor in your kitchen .
Grab it before it ’ s gone .
This deal was originally @ @ @ @ @ @ @ skin is already feeling the effects of winter before it ’ s actually here , don ’ t feel bad , everyone else is suffering , too .
I suggest a tube of Elta MD Face Moisturizer from Dermstore .
This luxury item is only $ 35 and has a mix of vitamin C , niacinamide , and hyaluronic acid to really penetrate the skin of your face and keep it nice and smooth no matter how harsh the winter winds .
What are you waiting for ?
This deal was originally published @ @ @ @ @ @ @ friend to a superb luxury gift—a Harry Josh Pro Dryer .
Only $ 262 with the promo code HJPT25 , you can easily dry your hair with an ionized blow dryer .
It has 12 heat , speed , and ion settings for any texture—straight , wavy , curly , and natural .
It ’ s also lightweight , so you won ’ t feel like you ’ re lifting a couple of dumbells when you ’ re only trying to get your hair dry and voluminous .
Seems like a great investment @ @ @ @ @ @ @ salons are closed these days .
Grab it before it ’ s gone !
This deal was originally published by Ignacia Fulcher .
Adam & Eve want to help you make the season a little merrier .
Starting at $ 4 grab a few extra goodies to stuff yours or a beloved one ’ s stocking this holiday season .
There ’ s something from everyone and you won ’ t spend more than $ 10 with the code BONUS50 .
Lots of candy cane decorated vibes for about $ 10 and they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the naughty list .
Butt ... .if you ’ re in for a ride this yuletide plenty of items like the Booty Sparks ( $ 7 ) will bring all the Christmas cheer .
And for solo Santas , the Shower Stroker ( $ 10 ) is here to jingle your bells .
Standard shipping is $ 8 on all orders .
This deal was originally published by Sheilah Villari .

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

Tuesday’s Best Deals | Kinja Deals
It’s December 15, and we at Kinja Deals are here to bring you the top 10 deals of the day. Buy a new TCL 50" LED 4K Smart TV. Score an Apple Watch SE for your favorite auntie. And get creative with your cooking in an Instant Pot Duo Nova.
If you’re still craving more deals, take a peek at Tuesday’s best deals overall.
#1: TCL 50" 4K tv
Look, we should all be staying home and staying put for the next several weeks. You know it, I know it— and Best Buy knows it too. This 50-inch TCL LED 4K smart TV is down to only $250 so you can snuggle up on the couch with all your favorite shows, movies, or your console of choice for less right now.
Since it’s a smart TV, it has built-in access to Netflix and all the other popular streaming options. This price is a $120 discount and is lower than you can find it for on Target and even Amazon. Don’t let it pass you by!
This deal was originally published by Elizabeth Lanier.
#2: Amazon fire kids tablets
No, it’s not an iPad—but Amazon does right by parents with its Fire Kids Edition tablets.
As you’ll see from the image, they’re wrapped in a thick rubber shell/convertible stand that helps protect it from dings and drops. Still, kids will find a way to break almost anything, and Amazon is ready there too. Each Kids Edition tablet has a 2-year worry-free guarantee, so if your child still manages to bust the thing, you’ve got a free replacement coming.
Amazon’s marketplace has a wide array of games, apps, books, and streaming services available, and the Kids Edition comes with the handy bonus of a year’s subscription to Amazon FreeTime Unlimited. The gated-off service provides a wealth of kid-friendly content within a colorful launcher, and then you can choose whether or not to pay monthly once the year is done.
Right now, Amazon is knocking $30 off the 7" tablet or $40 off the 8” HD tablet, making it an ideal time to bring one (or more) of these durable devices into your family. Grab ‘em in blue, purple, and pink.
This deal was originally published by Andrew Hayward.
#3: Apple watch se
As my lovely wife elegantly put it in her review for Gizmodo, “the Watch SE performs like a high-end smartwatch without the high-end price tag.” With the processor of a Series 5 and the optical heart rate sensor of a Series 6, some would argue the Apple Watch SE is the one to buy this year if you’re still sporting an Apple Watch 3 or older. Although for some reason Apple still sells the Series 3 (but not the Series 4 or Series 5), tech experts speculate it won’t be supported for much longer. And with the 44mm Apple Watch SE now on sale for $250 in Space Gray—marked down from $309—the choice is clear for those on the fence about which model to buy. In comparison, the “bigger” Series 3 model is 2mm smaller and costs only $30 less.
For $179 less than the comparably sized Series 6, you can secure Apple’s other Watch released this year and remain confident it’ll get the latest software updates for years to come. Be that as it may, there is one caveat to this offer. Only the Space Gray 44mm option is marked down $59, meaning if you’re hoping to rock the Silver aluminum case, you’ll have to pay a still-discounted $280, though the Gold model is not on sale. As a Space Gray Apple Watch haver myself, I have to say, there’s nothing it won’t match, and unlike some colors (looking at you, Rose Gold), historical evidence suggests Space Gray is here for the long haul. Silver and Gold Apple Watch SE models are also available for $250 in the smaller 40mm form factor. Tiny wrists rise up!
As Victoria puts it, the Apple Watch SE is the one to buy over the dead-in-the-water Series 3, and even the Series 6, which I foolishly pre-ordered on a whim back in September:
Unless your top priority is future-proofed advanced health-monitoring, or you just really love an always-on display, you should get a Watch SE. I promise you won’t feel like you’ve been cheated. If you’re not sure if you like smartwatches enough to plop down $400, then absolutely the Watch SE is the way to go. Don’t even look at the $200 Series 3. Don’t even think about it for your children, as it doesn’t even support the Family Setup feature that the cheapest watch seems perfect for. While the Series 3 was a great smartwatch, its time has passed. We thank it for its service and wish it a happy afterlife.
This deal was originally published by Gabe Carey.
#4: Star wars triple bundle
Star Wars is back, baby. I mean, it never went anywhere I suppose, but people seem to care about it again thanks to The Mandalorian’s second season. To celebrate the occasion, here’s a genuinely good deal: the Microsoft Store currently has a bundle of EA Star Wars games on sale for $40 for Xbox consoles. The package includes Star Wars Squadrons, Jedi: Fallen Order, and Battlefront 2. Squadrons alone retails for $40 and that just came out a few months ago, so it’s almost like you get two free games when you buy it. Or it’s like you’re getting each game for $13. Whichever way you slice the math, it’s a solid deal on three games that are fun additions to the long line of Star Wars games.
This deal was originally published by Giovanni Colantonio.
#5: Mortal kombat 11 ultimate
Mortal Kombat 11 released about a year and a half ago, and in true fighting game fashion, there’s already a third separate retail release for the latest entry in the legendary series.
Just launched alongside the new consoles, Mortal Kombat 11 Ultimate bundles the core game with all of the bonus add-on characters released to date, including a surprising array of guest pop culture characters (kharacters?) ranging from The Joker and Spawn to Robocop and John Rambo.
Of course, you also get MK legends like Sub-Zero and Scorpion in the mix, along with an array of other fighters new and old, plus the game features an array of visual enhancements to take advantage of the new hardware. Right now, Amazon has both the PlayStation 5 and Xbox (Series X/S and One) versions for $20 off the full list price.
This deal was originally published by Andrew Hayward.
#6: Garage disposals
If you’re tired of dealing with a clogged kitchen sink, now’s the time to grab a garbage disposal—especially if you have a holiday feast on the horizon. Waste King is one of the leading brands in the space, and right now Amazon is offering up to 64% off of its garbage disposals.
Right now, you can get a 1/3HP 1900RPM model for just $33, a huge savings from the $90 list price, or you can bump up to a 1/2HP 2600RPM version for only two bucks more. There’s also a 3/4HP model for $69 or 1HP version for $84 if you need more slice-and-dice power, and they collectively have a stellar 4.5-star rating from 9,000+ Amazon customers.
This deal was originally published by Andrew Hayward.
#7: Instant pot duo
There isn’t much to say about the Instant Pot Duo Nova that hasn’t been said before, but the 7-in-1 pressure cooker is down to $60 which is only $10 higher than its lowest price of $50! You’ll save and be able to cook whatever the hell you want with the touch of a button. Plus, it comes in three cute colors to match the rest of the decor in your kitchen. Grab it before it’s gone.
This deal was originally published by Ignacia Fulcher.
#8: EltaMD face moisturizer
If your skin is already feeling the effects of winter before it’s actually here, don’t feel bad, everyone else is suffering, too. I suggest a tube of Elta MD Face Moisturizer from Dermstore. This luxury item is only $35 and has a mix of vitamin C, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid to really penetrate the skin of your face and keep it nice and smooth no matter how harsh the winter winds. What are you waiting for?
This deal was originally published by Ignacia Fulcher.
#9: Harry josh pro hair dryer
Treat your hair-obsessed friend to a superb luxury gift—a Harry Josh Pro Dryer. Only $262 with the promo code HJPT25, you can easily dry your hair with an ionized blow dryer. It has 12 heat, speed, and ion settings for any texture—straight, wavy, curly, and natural. It’s also lightweight, so you won’t feel like you’re lifting a couple of dumbells when you’re only trying to get your hair dry and voluminous. Seems like a great investment to have since most of the hair salons are closed these days. Grab it before it’s gone!
This deal was originally published by Ignacia Fulcher.
#10: Gamestop sweaters
Adam & Eve want to help you make the season a little merrier. Starting at $4 grab a few extra goodies to stuff yours or a beloved one’s stocking this holiday season. There’s something from everyone and you won’t spend more than $10 with the code BONUS50.
Lots of candy cane decorated vibes for about $10 and they’re sure to put you on the naughty list. Butt....if you’re in for a ride this yuletide plenty of items like the Booty Sparks ($7) will bring all the Christmas cheer. And for solo Santas, the Shower Stroker ($10) is here to jingle your bells.
Standard shipping is $8 on all orders.
This deal was originally published by Sheilah Villari.


theroot--2020-12-15--TV/Film Legends Ralph Farquhar and Bruce W. Smith Sign Overall Deal With Disney Branded Television

We have another Black-ass overall deal to announce !
This time , it ’ s TV/film icons Ralph Farquhar and Bruce W. Smith , who have signed a multi-year overall deal with Disney Branded Television .
Under the deal , Farquhar and Smith will produce animated and live-action series as well as actively develop content from emerging and diverse talent .
“ We are very happy to be continuing our relationship with Disney and look forward to creating even more truly authentic and diverse stories and characters for audiences worldwide , ” Smith and Farquhar said in a joint statement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Root .
“ We are also excited to have the opportunity to bring along a new wave of talented voices that will deepen the connection to Disney storytelling for years to come.
” Unless you are actively in the television industry in some form , you may not recognize these names , but best believe , you recognize the titles they ’ ve provided or lent their talents to .
Thankfully , the press release broke it down for everyone .
In addition to creating and executive producing The Proud Family , Smith @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Academy Award-winning short Hair Love .
A Walt Disney Animation Studios alumnus , Smith supervised animation on feature films including The Princess and the Frog , Winnie the Pooh , Tarzan and The Emperor ’ s New Groove , and worked on visual development for Frozen and Wreck-It-Ralph .
Renowned for creating and executive producing the popular sitcom Moesha , Farquhar also created and executive produced South Central and The Parkers , and executive produced Real Husbands of Hollywood .
His work also includes writing the cult classic , hip-hop feature film @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ... with Children , and writing for the ABC series Happy Days .
“ With virtually every studio and platform reaching out to them , it speaks volumes that talented storytellers Ralph and Bruce have chosen Disney as the home for their boundless creativity and inspired social commentary , not to mention their commitment to identifying emerging talent , ” Gary Marsh , president and chief creative officer , Disney Branded Television said in a statement .
“ We are proud to have them as members of our family.
” Given each of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to seeing what these two titans whip up for generations to come !

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

We have another Black-ass overall deal to announce!
This time, it’s TV/film icons Ralph Farquhar and Bruce W. Smith, who have signed a multi-year overall deal with Disney Branded Television. Under the deal, Farquhar and Smith will produce animated and live-action series as well as actively develop content from emerging and diverse talent.
“We are very happy to be continuing our relationship with Disney and look forward to creating even more truly authentic and diverse stories and characters for audiences worldwide,” Smith and Farquhar said in a joint statement via a press release sent to The Root. “We are also excited to have the opportunity to bring along a new wave of talented voices that will deepen the connection to Disney storytelling for years to come.”
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Unless you are actively in the television industry in some form, you may not recognize these names, but best believe, you recognize the titles they’ve provided or lent their talents to. Thankfully, the press release broke it down for everyone.
In addition to creating and executive producing The Proud Family, Smith served as one of three directors of the Academy Award-winning short Hair Love. A Walt Disney Animation Studios alumnus, Smith supervised animation on feature films including The Princess and the Frog, Winnie the Pooh, Tarzan and The Emperor’s New Groove, and worked on visual development for Frozen and Wreck-It-Ralph. Renowned for creating and executive producing the popular sitcom Moesha, Farquhar also created and executive produced South Central and The Parkers, and executive produced Real Husbands of Hollywood. His work also includes writing the cult classic, hip-hop feature film Krush Groove, supervising producer on Married... with Children, and writing for the ABC series Happy Days.
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“With virtually every studio and platform reaching out to them, it speaks volumes that talented storytellers Ralph and Bruce have chosen Disney as the home for their boundless creativity and inspired social commentary, not to mention their commitment to identifying emerging talent,” Gary Marsh, president and chief creative officer, Disney Branded Television said in a statement. “We are proud to have them as members of our family.”
Given each of their rich resumes, we look forward to seeing what these two titans whip up for generations to come!


theroot--2020-12-15--Got 99 Problems, but a Book Ain't One: Jay-Z's Roc Nation and Random House to Launch 'Roc Lit 101'

If the ongoing pandemic has reignited your passion for reading ( or simply deepened it ) , say no more , Fam .
Shawn “ Jay-Z ” Carter has already Decoded his lyrics in book form , but now , the company he founded will add to its ( and his ) multimedia entertainment empire , announcing a new publishing partnership with Random House , a division of Penguin Random House LLC , to launch an imprint called “ Roc Lit 101.
” Per a release sent to The Root : The venture is an imprint devoted to publishing books @ @ @ @ @ @ @ genre-defying literature , including exhilarating , innovative work from some of the biggest artists and most imaginative and incisive writers of our time on a wide range of subjects such as music , sports , pop culture , activism , and art .
This new imprint will be overseen by Chris Jackson , Publisher and Editor-in-Chief of One World books , an imprint of Random House , and Jana Fleishman , EVP of Roc Nation .
“ Our aspiration for the imprint is to create books that draw from the best of pop @ @ @ @ @ @ @ innovators , and literary chroniclers—to create beautifully written and produced works that will entertain and enthrall readers , but also illuminate critical issues , ” said Jackson , who was recently awarded the Center for Fiction ’ s Medal for Editorial Excellence in a statement .
“ But the partnership isn ’ t just about the books , ” he added , “ it ’ s also about audiences : we want to find new voices and new stories , but also new readers.
” To that end , the collaboration will reportedly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of releases : Till the End , CC Sabathia ’ s “ raw , compelling memoir of baseball , family , fame , addiction , and recovery , written with Chris Smith ” ; and veteran music journalist Danyel Smith ’ s Shine Bright , “ a brilliant weave of memoir , criticism , and biography that tells the story of Black women in music as the foundational story of American pop.
” Also teased is “ creative work across a wide variety of interests , ” as future releases will reportedly include @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 101 is to provide a creative outlet for acclaimed wordsmiths and artists to share their visions with new audiences , ” says Roc Nation EVP Fleishman .
“ There are so many untold stories and we consider it a true privilege to be able to amplify diverse voices while exploring the uncharted worlds that are about to open to us .
”

If the ongoing pandemic has reignited your passion for reading (or simply deepened it), say no more, Fam. Shawn “Jay-Z” Carter has already Decoded his lyrics in book form, but now, the company he founded will add to its (and his) multimedia entertainment empire, announcing a new publishing partnership with Random House, a division of Penguin Random House LLC, to launch an imprint called “Roc Lit 101.”
Per a release sent to The Root:
The venture is an imprint devoted to publishing books at the dynamic intersection of entertainment and genre-defying literature, including exhilarating, innovative work from some of the biggest artists and most imaginative and incisive writers of our time on a wide range of subjects such as music, sports, pop culture, activism, and art. This new imprint will be overseen by Chris Jackson, Publisher and Editor-in-Chief of One World books, an imprint of Random House, and Jana Fleishman, EVP of Roc Nation.
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“Our aspiration for the imprint is to create books that draw from the best of pop culture—its most imaginative and talented storytellers, innovators, and literary chroniclers—to create beautifully written and produced works that will entertain and enthrall readers, but also illuminate critical issues,” said Jackson, who was recently awarded the Center for Fiction’s Medal for Editorial Excellence in a statement. “But the partnership isn’t just about the books,” he added, “it’s also about audiences: we want to find new voices and new stories, but also new readers.”
To that end, the collaboration will reportedly launch in Summer 2021 with a pair of releases: Till the End, CC Sabathia’s “raw, compelling memoir of baseball, family, fame, addiction, and recovery, written with Chris Smith”; and veteran music journalist Danyel Smith’s Shine Bright, “a brilliant weave of memoir, criticism, and biography that tells the story of Black women in music as the foundational story of American pop.” Also teased is “creative work across a wide variety of interests,” as future releases will reportedly include:
...fantastical illustrated fiction from world-creating artists like Lil Uzi Vert; personal narratives that take on the biggest issues of the day like Meek Mill’s story of criminal justice and survival; illuminating and pulse-pounding coming-of-age memoirs from brilliant storytellers like Fat Joe and Yo Gotti; illustrated books and cookbooks; books for children and books that defy genre altogether.
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“The goal of Roc Lit 101 is to provide a creative outlet for acclaimed wordsmiths and artists to share their visions with new audiences,” says Roc Nation EVP Fleishman. “There are so many untold stories and we consider it a true privilege to be able to amplify diverse voices while exploring the uncharted worlds that are about to open to us.”


theroot--2020-12-15--Giannis Antetokounmpo to Stay With the Bucks After Reportedly Signing the Largest Deal in NBA Histor

Giannis Antetokounmpo to Stay With the Bucks After Reportedly Signing the Largest Deal in NBA History

Bucks fans , have no fear .
Giannis Antetokounmpo will be staying in Milwaukee after signing the largest deal in NBA history .
According to CBS News , Antetokounmpo has signed a 5-year “ supermax ” deal worth $ 228 million that includes an opt-out .
In other news , I now feel poor as hell .
Antetokounmpo confirmed the news in a tweet , writing “ This is my home , this is my city .
I ’ m blessed to be able to be a part of the Milwaukee Bucks for the next 5 years .
Let ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ show goes on , let ’ s get it.
” If Antetokounmpo turned down the deal , he would ’ ve become a free agent next summer , which would have likely seen teams across the league moving heaven and earth to have “ The Greek Freak ” on their roster .
Antetokounmpo was born in Greece , the child of two Nigerian immigrants .
He told 60 Minutes in 2018 that while they didn ’ t have much , he still had a joyful childhood .
Going from poverty to the largest @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of a come up and we love to see .
It ’ s well deserved too as the man can ball his ass off , becoming just the third player behind Michael Jordan and Hakeem Olajuwon to win MVP and Defensive Player of the Year in the same season , according to ESPN .
He ’ s also the first Buck to be named MVP since Kareem Abdul-Jabbar in the ‘ 70s and joins Abdul-Jabbar and LeBron James as the only three players to win multiple MVP awards before the age of 25 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and you already rank among the greats , you ’ re probably doing something right .
Milwaukee finished last season with the best record in the league , but lost in a 4-1 series against the Miami Heat during the semifinals .
The NBA season starts next week , where the Bucks will open their season against the Boston Celtics on Dec. 23 .

Bucks fans, have no fear. Giannis Antetokounmpo will be staying in Milwaukee after signing the largest deal in NBA history.
According to CBS News, Antetokounmpo has signed a 5-year “supermax” deal worth $228 million that includes an opt-out. In other news, I now feel poor as hell. Antetokounmpo confirmed the news in a tweet, writing “This is my home, this is my city. I’m blessed to be able to be a part of the Milwaukee Bucks for the next 5 years. Let’s make these years count. The show goes on, let’s get it.”
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If Antetokounmpo turned down the deal, he would’ve become a free agent next summer, which would have likely seen teams across the league moving heaven and earth to have “The Greek Freak” on their roster.
Antetokounmpo was born in Greece, the child of two Nigerian immigrants. He told 60 Minutes in 2018 that while they didn’t have much, he still had a joyful childhood. Going from poverty to the largest deal in league history is one hell of a come up and we love to see.
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It’s well deserved too as the man can ball his ass off, becoming just the third player behind Michael Jordan and Hakeem Olajuwon to win MVP and Defensive Player of the Year in the same season, according to ESPN. He’s also the first Buck to be named MVP since Kareem Abdul-Jabbar in the ‘70s and joins Abdul-Jabbar and LeBron James as the only three players to win multiple MVP awards before the age of 25.
If you’re only 26 and you already rank among the greats, you’re probably doing something right.
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Milwaukee finished last season with the best record in the league, but lost in a 4-1 series against the Miami Heat during the semifinals. The NBA season starts next week, where the Bucks will open their season against the Boston Celtics on Dec. 23.


theroot--2020-12-15--Despite Nationwide Attention to Police Brutality, Arrest Rates for Cops Who Kill People On-Duty Rema

Despite Nationwide Attention to Police Brutality, Arrest Rates for Cops Who Kill People On-Duty Remain Appallingly Low

In some ways , 2020 has appeared to mark a turning point in the United States ’ long ongoing racial justice movement .
This year ’ s Black Lives Matter protests in the wake of George Floyd ’ s death at the hands of Minneapolis police helped galvanize a nationwide reckoning on race that brought greater attention to other police killings , provoked millions of Americans to protest in their streets , and pushed the concept of defunding the police to the forefront .
But while those are substantial developments , the math of police killings remains essentially the same @ @ @ @ @ @ @ points out , the arrest rate for cops who kill people on-duty remains as low as ever—hovering between 1 percent and 2 percent .
The story pulls from data that Philip Matthew Stinson , a criminal justice expert at Bowling Green State University has been tracking for years .
Since 2005 , only 126 police officers have been arrested for murder or manslaughter when they ’ ve killed someone on the job .
Actual prosecutions are even lower—just eight a year .
That framework is important to consider when reflecting on the cases @ @ @ @ @ @ @ killing during a botched drug raid conducted by Louisville police similarly enraged people nationwide .
No one was charged in connection to Taylor ’ s death ; of the three officers involved in the raid , only former Sgt .
Brett Hankison is facing criminal charges , for shooting recklessly outside of Taylor ’ s apartment .
As Vox notes , despite the international attention Taylor ’ s killing drew , the resolution ( or lack thereof ) to her case is actually more consistent with the vast majority of fatal police brutality @ @ @ @ @ @ @ case is still a rare exception .
Not only was former officer Derek Chauvin , who kneeled on Floyd ’ s neck for more than eight minutes , charged in the 46-year-old Black man ’ s death , but so were three additional officers who chose not to intervene while Floyd was begging for help .
Despite the novel coronavirus pandemic , which forced many to shelter-in-place for weeks this year ( and prompted many counties to decrease their jail populations ) , and increased attention to police violence , American cops have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ similar rate to years prior .
Vox points to a number of reasons why police don ’ t often get prosecuted .
Cops who witness fatal police shootings are more likely to consider those killings justified and may resist treating those incidents as crimes .
This means refusing to gather evidence , give testimony , or provide false witness accounts in order to protect their colleagues .
Prosecutors may also be reluctant to bring charges against police departments , with whom they work closely .
They may also , like Kentucky Attorney General @ @ @ @ @ @ @ justified .
This is in part because current laws provide a wide berth for officers to use force if they perceive a threat—an inexact and highly subjective standard , and one that is often tinged with bias .
The debate about how , exactly , to reform American policing is unlikely to change in the new year , especially with a high-profile George Floyd trial right around the corner .
But when considering how to solve the issue of police brutality , it ’ s worth returning to these numbers , and this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ attention placed on cops .
There have never been more body cameras and cell phones tracking the decisions they make on the job .
But despite waves of reform in the past 15 years , in that same period , only seven cops have been convicted of murder .
That is the justice system we have .

In some ways, 2020 has appeared to mark a turning point in the United States’ long ongoing racial justice movement. This year’s Black Lives Matter protests in the wake of George Floyd’s death at the hands of Minneapolis police helped galvanize a nationwide reckoning on race that brought greater attention to other police killings, provoked millions of Americans to protest in their streets, and pushed the concept of defunding the police to the forefront.
But while those are substantial developments, the math of police killings remains essentially the same. As a recent post from Vox points out, the arrest rate for cops who kill people on-duty remains as low as ever—hovering between 1 percent and 2 percent.
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The story pulls from data that Philip Matthew Stinson, a criminal justice expert at Bowling Green State University has been tracking for years. Since 2005, only 126 police officers have been arrested for murder or manslaughter when they’ve killed someone on the job. Actual prosecutions are even lower—just eight a year.
That framework is important to consider when reflecting on the cases of Floyd and Breonna Taylor, whose killing during a botched drug raid conducted by Louisville police similarly enraged people nationwide. No one was charged in connection to Taylor’s death; of the three officers involved in the raid, only former Sgt. Brett Hankison is facing criminal charges, for shooting recklessly outside of Taylor’s apartment. As Vox notes, despite the international attention Taylor’s killing drew, the resolution (or lack thereof) to her case is actually more consistent with the vast majority of fatal police brutality cases.
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Meanwhile, Floyd’s case is still a rare exception. Not only was former officer Derek Chauvin, who kneeled on Floyd’s neck for more than eight minutes, charged in the 46-year-old Black man’s death, but so were three additional officers who chose not to intervene while Floyd was begging for help.
Despite the novel coronavirus pandemic, which forced many to shelter-in-place for weeks this year (and prompted many counties to decrease their jail populations), and increased attention to police violence, American cops have also continued to kill people at a similar rate to years prior.
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Vox points to a number of reasons why police don’t often get prosecuted. Cops who witness fatal police shootings are more likely to consider those killings justified and may resist treating those incidents as crimes. This means refusing to gather evidence, give testimony, or provide false witness accounts in order to protect their colleagues. Prosecutors may also be reluctant to bring charges against police departments, with whom they work closely. They may also, like Kentucky Attorney General Daniel Cameron, believe the shooting is justified. This is in part because current laws provide a wide berth for officers to use force if they perceive a threat—an inexact and highly subjective standard, and one that is often tinged with bias.
The debate about how, exactly, to reform American policing is unlikely to change in the new year, especially with a high-profile George Floyd trial right around the corner. But when considering how to solve the issue of police brutality, it’s worth returning to these numbers, and this context. There has never been more attention placed on cops. There have never been more body cameras and cell phones tracking the decisions they make on the job. But despite waves of reform in the past 15 years, in that same period, only seven cops have been convicted of murder.
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That is the justice system we have.


theroot--2020-12-15--Biden to Nominate Pete Buttigieg as Head of Transportation

In what continues to be some head-scratching shit , President-elect Joe Biden is expected to nominate Pete Buttigieg as transportation secretary , which is the equivalent of being nominated as the secretary of transportation .
Safe to say it ’ s not a glamorous position .
Quick , name another Transportation secretary in the history of ever ?
According to Politico , Buttigieg was hoping to be the ambassador to the United Nations , but he lost that job to Linda Thomas-Greenfield .
He was also considered for the commerce secretary but alas despite Buttigieg ’ s strong resume concerning @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that either , well , did I mention that he ’ s a white man ?
The former mayor of South Bend , Ind.
, and Democratic presidential nominee rose to fame over the last two years .
Politico notes that his supporters were hoping for a more glamorous assignment to help bolster his political aspirations , but alas that is not the case .
Did I mention that Buttigieg is 38-years-old ?
I ’ m dogging the position but let ’ s be clear : I f confirmed , “ Buttigieg will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ nearly 55,000 employees , an $ 87 billion budget and more than a dozen administrations , overseeing the nation ’ s airspace , highway system , pipeline safety and much more , ” Politico reports .
As South Bend mayor , Buttigieg was chief executive of a city with a population of just over 100,000 , with a relatively small transportation footprint .
South Bend Transpo , the local transit agency , has a fleet of 60 buses and has seen sinking ridership in the last few years .
There ’ s an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it ’ s run by the county .
His transportation expertise pales in comparison to other candidates passed over for the job , like David Kim , John Porcari or Sarah Feinberg , all of whom have years of transportation experience both at DOT and elsewhere , and are also savvy Beltway operators .
But that lack of experience did not stop Buttigieg from making grand plans on the campaign trail in 2020 .
He was one of the first presidential primary candidates to put out an infrastructure plan , a detailed proposal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and road safety — subjects usually reserved for policy wonks .
Buttigieg ’ s presidential campaign started strongly but flamed out quickly as he dropped out of the race right before Super Tuesday .
He endorsed Biden and served as a diligent soldier for Biden ’ s campaign .
If confirmed , Buttigieg would become the first openly gay cabinet secretary .

In what continues to be some head-scratching shit, President-elect Joe Biden is expected to nominate Pete Buttigieg as transportation secretary, which is the equivalent of being nominated as the secretary of transportation. Safe to say it’s not a glamorous position. Quick, name another Transportation secretary in the history of ever?
Exactly.
According to Politico, Buttigieg was hoping to be the ambassador to the United Nations, but he lost that job to Linda Thomas-Greenfield. He was also considered for the commerce secretary but alas despite Buttigieg’s strong resume concerning transportation—wait, he doesn’t have that either, well, did I mention that he’s a white man?
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The former mayor of South Bend, Ind., and Democratic presidential nominee rose to fame over the last two years. Politico notes that his supporters were hoping for a more glamorous assignment to help bolster his political aspirations, but alas that is not the case. Did I mention that Buttigieg is 38-years-old?
I’m dogging the position but let’s be clear: I f confirmed, “Buttigieg will head to Washington to take responsibility for nearly 55,000 employees, an $87 billion budget and more than a dozen administrations, overseeing the nation’s airspace, highway system, pipeline safety and much more,” Politico reports.
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From Politico:
As South Bend mayor, Buttigieg was chief executive of a city with a population of just over 100,000, with a relatively small transportation footprint. South Bend Transpo, the local transit agency, has a fleet of 60 buses and has seen sinking ridership in the last few years. There’s an international airport near South Bend, but it’s run by the county. His transportation expertise pales in comparison to other candidates passed over for the job, like David Kim, John Porcari or Sarah Feinberg, all of whom have years of transportation experience both at DOT and elsewhere, and are also savvy Beltway operators. But that lack of experience did not stop Buttigieg from making grand plans on the campaign trail in 2020. He was one of the first presidential primary candidates to put out an infrastructure plan, a detailed proposal which touted a vehicle miles traveled fee and road safety — subjects usually reserved for policy wonks.
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Buttigieg’s presidential campaign started strongly but flamed out quickly as he dropped out of the race right before Super Tuesday. He endorsed Biden and served as a diligent soldier for Biden’s campaign. If confirmed, Buttigieg would become the first openly gay cabinet secretary.