theroot--2020-10-08--They May Finally Arrest the Cop Responsible for Breonna Taylor's Death But it's Not Who You Think

After reviewing thousands of pages concerning officers ’ involvement in the death of Breonna Taylor , a Louisville investigator concluded that the entire debacle was based on a “ misleading ” affidavit used to obtain the search warrant for Taylor ’ s apartment , recommending possible criminal charges for the offending officer , WDRB reports .
Everyone knows the story by now : Jamarcus Glover was Breonna Taylor ’ s ex-boyfriend and a suspected drug dealer .
A judge granted investigators a “ no-knock warrant ” after LMPD detectives and postal inspectors discovered Glover was receiving “ suspicious packages ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ went to search the house , Taylor ’ s new boyfriend thought someone was trying to rob the apartment , so he shot through the door .
The cops returned fire after one of the officers was wounded by Taylor ’ s boyfriend and Taylor was shot by one of the officers .
Except , as it turns out , none of that is true .
An internal review by an investigator with the department ’ s Public Integrity Unit determined that the officers investigating Glover never believed he was receiving packages at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ point during their investigation , evidence confirmed she was receiving , at most , packages from Amazon .
The cops responsible for looking into Breonna ’ s mail concluded there was nothing out of the ordinary going on .
But when it came time to submit their evidence to a judge , Det .
Joshua Jaynes swore on an affidavit used to obtain the infamous warrant , that he witnessed Glover leave Taylor ’ s apartment with an unusual box from the USPS .
Jaynes ’ written affidavit also said that officers had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that Jamarcus Glover has been receiving packages.
” There was only one problem with this story : There was no postal inspector .
The officers hadn ’ t talked to anyone from the Post Office , including Taylor ’ s mailman .
And why didn ’ t they ?
Because , according to police documents , the officers who were investigating Taylor ’ s mail “ repeatedly ” told the LMPD narcotics officers that the 26-year-old ER tech wasn ’ t receiving packages for Glover .
That ’ s right .
Not only @ @ @ @ @ @ @ t any secret dope boxes for Glover , but they determined Taylor wasn ’ t receiving any packages , “ suspicious or otherwise.
” Taylor had received some regular mail for Glover , but no packages .
However , Jaynes insinuated in his statement to Jefferson County Judge Mary Shaw that Glover regularly picked up “ parcels ” from Breonna Taylor ’ s home .
Jaynes ’ interview shows that [ LMPD St. Jonathan ] Mattingly never contacted the postal inspector directly .
Instead , he submitted the request through the Shively Police @ @ @ @ @ @ @ between LMPD and the postal inspector because of “ bad blood ” between the two agencies .
In an interview with Louisville police investigators , Shively police Sgt .
Timothy Salyer said he and Shively Detective Michael Kuzma got a text from Mattingly on Jan. 17 asking they check with a postal inspector to see if packages were being sent to Taylor ’ s home for Glover .
Both Shively officers say the postal inspector told them there were no packages being sent to Taylor ’ s home and that information was promptly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Taylor ’ s death , both Salyer and Kuzma became concerned when they read the warrant affidavit written by Jaynes .
Salyer asked Mattingly about what Jaynes said in the affidavit .
“ Sgt .
Mattingly stated he told Detective Jaynes there was no package history at that address , ” Salyer told investigators .
During the Public Integrity Unit investigation , Jaynes admitted that he “ could have worded [ the affidavit ] a little bit different.
” Furthermore , the Shively officers had no idea that Jaynes ’ included this lie @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Apparently knowing he had fucked up , Jaynes curiously started texting the Shively cops again asking them about Taylor ’ s invisible packages that never existed .
“ It looks like you ’ re trying to cover your ass is what it appears to me , ” the cops told investigators about Jaynes , who told investigators that he believed Taylor was involved in drug dealing because dope boys use women to hide their drugs and money and , according to Jaynes : “ It ’ s usually baby-mamas or one child @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that they can trust.
” “ Investigators believe that the wording on the affidavit is misleading ” concluded PIU investigator Jason Vance .
“ but given Jaynes statement related to the information should be reviewed for criminal actions.
” Of course , this information has been known by people involved with the investigation for months .
But , for some reason , Attorney General Daniel Cameron chose not to present any of this evidence to a grand jury .
There is , however , an ongoing federal investigation .
However , when people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the person responsible for Breonna Taylor ’ s death ... Maybe we were talking about Joshua Jaynes this whole time .

After reviewing thousands of pages concerning officers’ involvement in the death of Breonna Taylor, a Louisville investigator concluded that the entire debacle was based on a “misleading” affidavit used to obtain the search warrant for Taylor’s apartment, recommending possible criminal charges for the offending officer, WDRB reports.
Everyone knows the story by now:
Jamarcus Glover was Breonna Taylor’s ex-boyfriend and a suspected drug dealer. A judge granted investigators a “no-knock warrant” after LMPD detectives and postal inspectors discovered Glover was receiving “suspicious packages” at Taylor’s home. They went to search the house, Taylor’s new boyfriend thought someone was trying to rob the apartment, so he shot through the door. The cops returned fire after one of the officers was wounded by Taylor’s boyfriend and Taylor was shot by one of the officers.
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Except, as it turns out, none of that is true.
An internal review by an investigator with the department’s Public Integrity Unit determined that the officers investigating Glover never believed he was receiving packages at Taylor’s house. At every point during their investigation, evidence confirmed she was receiving, at most, packages from Amazon. The cops responsible for looking into Breonna’s mail concluded there was nothing out of the ordinary going on.
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But when it came time to submit their evidence to a judge, Det. Joshua Jaynes swore on an affidavit used to obtain the infamous warrant, that he witnessed Glover leave Taylor’s apartment with an unusual box from the USPS. Jaynes’ written affidavit also said that officers had “verified through a US Postal Inspector that Jamarcus Glover has been receiving packages.”
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There was only one problem with this story:
There was no postal inspector. The officers hadn’t talked to anyone from the Post Office, including Taylor’s mailman. And why didn’t they? Because, according to police documents, the officers who were investigating Taylor’s mail “repeatedly” told the LMPD narcotics officers that the 26-year-old ER tech wasn’t receiving packages for Glover.
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That’s right. Not only did they determine that there weren’t any secret dope boxes for Glover, but they determined Taylor wasn’t receiving any packages, “suspicious or otherwise.” Taylor had received some regular mail for Glover, but no packages. However, Jaynes insinuated in his statement to Jefferson County Judge Mary Shaw that Glover regularly picked up “parcels” from Breonna Taylor’s home.
WDRB reports:
Jaynes’ interview shows that [LMPD St. Jonathan] Mattingly never contacted the postal inspector directly. Instead, he submitted the request through the Shively Police Department, which serves as a liaison between LMPD and the postal inspector because of “bad blood” between the two agencies. In an interview with Louisville police investigators, Shively police Sgt. Timothy Salyer said he and Shively Detective Michael Kuzma got a text from Mattingly on Jan. 17 asking they check with a postal inspector to see if packages were being sent to Taylor’s home for Glover. Both Shively officers say the postal inspector told them there were no packages being sent to Taylor’s home and that information was promptly and accurately relayed to LMPD. After Taylor’s death, both Salyer and Kuzma became concerned when they read the warrant affidavit written by Jaynes. Salyer asked Mattingly about what Jaynes said in the affidavit. “Sgt. Mattingly stated he told Detective Jaynes there was no package history at that address,” Salyer told investigators.
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During the Public Integrity Unit investigation, Jaynes admitted that he “could have worded [the affidavit] a little bit different.”
Furthermore, the Shively officers had no idea that Jaynes’ included this lie in the request for a search warrant. Apparently knowing he had fucked up, Jaynes curiously started texting the Shively cops again asking them about Taylor’s invisible packages that never existed.
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“It looks like you’re trying to cover your ass is what it appears to me,” the cops told investigators about Jaynes, who told investigators that he believed Taylor was involved in drug dealing because dope boys use women to hide their drugs and money and, according to Jaynes: “It’s usually baby-mamas or one child in common or it’s girlfriends that they can trust.”
This fucking guy.
“Investigators believe that the wording on the affidavit is misleading” concluded PIU investigator Jason Vance. “but given Jaynes statement related to the information should be reviewed for criminal actions.”
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Of course, this information has been known by people involved with the investigation for months. But, for some reason, Attorney General Daniel Cameron chose not to present any of this evidence to a grand jury. There is, however, an ongoing federal investigation.
However, when people across America pleaded for authorities to arrest the person responsible for Breonna Taylor’s death...
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Maybe we were talking about Joshua Jaynes this whole time.


theroot--2020-10-08--Netflix Faces Criminal Charges Over Cuties Film After Texas Grand Jury Indicts Company for ‘Promotin

Netflix Faces Criminal Charges Over Cuties Film After Texas Grand Jury Indicts Company for ‘Promoting...Lewd Material of Children’

A Texas Grand jury indicted Netflix Tuesday over the French film Cuties , charging the streaming company with “ promotion of lewd visual material depicting a child.
” As CNN reports , the indictment was initiated by criminal district attorney Lucas Babin and presented before a Tyler County grand jury .
In its indictment , the grand jury said the film had “ no literary , artistic , political or scientific value.
” “ The legislators of this state believe promoting certain lewd material of children has destructive consequences , ” Babin said in a statement .
“ After hearing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , I knew there was probably cause to believe it was criminal .
If such material is distributed on a grand scale , isn ’ t the need to prosecute more , not less ?
” “ A grand jury in Tyler County found probable cause for this felony , and my job is to uphold the laws of this State and see that justice is done , ” he continued .
Babin is the son of Texas Congressman Brian Babin , who has also denounced the film as child pornography , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Attorney General William Barr to prosecute Netflix earlier this year , reports the Texas Tribune .
The feature film , also known by its original French title , Mignonnes , has no apparent ties to Texas , aside from being available for viewing there via Netflix ’ s platform .
The coming-of-age film centers on Amy , the 11-year-old daughter of Muslim Senegalese immigrants , as she navigates girlhood , womanhood , and the blurred lines between the two .
The movie won filmmaker Maïmouna Doucouré a directing award at Sundance and enjoyed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ became the subject of controversy after a Netflix international promotional poster and trailer for the film showed the movie ’ s preteen stars wearing revealing dance outfits and posing provocatively .
Netflix apologized and changed the promotional materials so they were more reflective of the film , but the criticism stuck .
Since then , most of the controversy has centered on a 3-minute portion of the 1-hour and 36-minute film , which shows Amy and other preteen girls gyrating and dancing suggestively .
Doucouré says the scene and the movie itself are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of young girls .
The 35-year-old filmmaker told Slate recently that Cuties—her directorial debut—reflects her own experiences growing up in France , and what it felt like being seen as a woman when she still felt like a child .
“ My aesthetic take , aesthetic perspective is to hold a mirror in front of the world so that we as adults are able to see what we have created , what is our responsibility towards our children , in the way we have brought them up , ” she recently told Slate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ film , it ’ s far from the only concern for Doucouré , who also touches on how the internet has made girlhood more challenging , as well as the different labor and familial expectations pinned on girls .
Still , many of those layers have been collapsed underneath critics ’ complaints about the sexualization of preadolescents .
“ I hope they ’ re going to realize that we ’ re actually on the same side and we ’ re fighting the same fight against hypersexualization of children , ” Doucouré told The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which didn ’ t name any Netflix executives , means the studio and streaming platform could face a fine of up to $ 20,000 if found guilty .
As the Texas Tribune notes , those fines could increase twofold if the court finds the company financially benefited from the “ lewd material ” depicting children .
Netflix denounced the Texas indictment in a statement to CNN .
“ Cuties is a social commentary against the sexualization of young children , ” a Netflix spokesperson told the news outlet .
“ This charge is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ film .
”

Anne Branigin on The Grapevine, shared by Anne Branigin to The Root

A Texas Grand jury indicted Netflix Tuesday over the French film Cuties, charging the streaming company with “promotion of lewd visual material depicting a child.”
As CNN reports, the indictment was initiated by criminal district attorney Lucas Babin and presented before a Tyler County grand jury. In its indictment, the grand jury said the film had “no literary, artistic, political or scientific value.”
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“The legislators of this state believe promoting certain lewd material of children has destructive consequences,” Babin said in a statement. “After hearing about the movie Cuties and watching it, I knew there was probably cause to believe it was criminal. If such material is distributed on a grand scale, isn’t the need to prosecute more, not less?”
“A grand jury in Tyler County found probable cause for this felony, and my job is to uphold the laws of this State and see that justice is done,” he continued.
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Babin is the son of Texas Congressman Brian Babin, who has also denounced the film as child pornography, and joined other congressional lawmakers in calling for Attorney General William Barr to prosecute Netflix earlier this year, reports the Texas Tribune.
The feature film, also known by its original French title, Mignonnes, has no apparent ties to Texas, aside from being available for viewing there via Netflix’s platform. The coming-of-age film centers on Amy, the 11-year-old daughter of Muslim Senegalese immigrants, as she navigates girlhood, womanhood, and the blurred lines between the two.
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The movie won filmmaker Maïmouna Doucouré a directing award at Sundance and enjoyed praise from critics. But the film became the subject of controversy after a Netflix international promotional poster and trailer for the film showed the movie’s preteen stars wearing revealing dance outfits and posing provocatively. Netflix apologized and changed the promotional materials so they were more reflective of the film, but the criticism stuck.
Since then, most of the controversy has centered on a 3-minute portion of the 1-hour and 36-minute film, which shows Amy and other preteen girls gyrating and dancing suggestively. Doucouré says the scene and the movie itself are intended as a critique of the hypersexualization of young girls. The 35-year-old filmmaker told Slate recently that Cuties—her directorial debut—reflects her own experiences growing up in France, and what it felt like being seen as a woman when she still felt like a child.
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“My aesthetic take, aesthetic perspective is to hold a mirror in front of the world so that we as adults are able to see what we have created, what is our responsibility towards our children, in the way we have brought them up,” she recently told Slate.
While hypersexualization comes up in the film, it’s far from the only concern for Doucouré, who also touches on how the internet has made girlhood more challenging, as well as the different labor and familial expectations pinned on girls. Still, many of those layers have been collapsed underneath critics’ complaints about the sexualization of preadolescents.
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“I hope they’re going to realize that we’re actually on the same side and we’re fighting the same fight against hypersexualization of children,” Doucouré told The Root last month.
Attorney Babin claims he watched the film.
The indictment, which didn’t name any Netflix executives, means the studio and streaming platform could face a fine of up to $20,000 if found guilty. As the Texas Tribune notes, those fines could increase twofold if the court finds the company financially benefited from the “lewd material” depicting children.
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Netflix denounced the Texas indictment in a statement to CNN.
“Cuties is a social commentary against the sexualization of young children,” a Netflix spokesperson told the news outlet. “This charge is without merit and we stand by the film.”


theroot--2020-10-08--Pro-Life President’s Coronavirus Treatment Was Tested Using Cells Originally Cultivated From Aborted

Pro-Life President’s Coronavirus Treatment Was Tested Using Cells Originally Cultivated From Aborted Tissue

The antibody cocktail used to treat President Donald Trump ’ s case of coronavirus uses cells originally derived from aborted fetuses .
The MIT Technology Review found that Regeneron Pharmaceuticals , the company responsible for crafting the antibody cocktail used by Trump , tested it using cells originally cultivated from aborted tissue .
Just kidding , y ’ all .
As if Republicans would ever face consequences for their blatant hypocrisies .
The Trump administration has been incredibly firm in its pro-life views , with Vice President and Venus flytrap Mike Pence emphasizing those views during Wednesday ’ s vice-presidential @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) .
In 2019 , the Trump Administration moved to prevent the National Institutes of Health from funding the exact kind of research that may have saved the president ’ s life .
While I would love to sit here and be like , “ Oh , so you pro-choice when it comes to saving your life and/or marriage ?
” it ’ s quite likely that Trump wasn ’ t aware of the fact his treatment was originally tested with aborted tissue .
The development process is incredibly complex and one would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to really parse through it .
According to Regeneron , laboratory tests used to assess the potency of its antibodies employed a standardized supply of cells called HEK 293T , whose origin was kidney tissue from an abortion in the Netherlands in the 1970s .
Since then , the 293T cells have been “ immortalized , ” meaning they keep dividing in the lab , somewhat like a cancer , and have undergone other genetic changes and additions .
According to Regeneron , it and many other labs employ 293T cells to manufacture @ @ @ @ @ @ @ virus-like structures that contain the “ spike ” protein of the deadly coronavirus .
It needs those to test how well different antibodies will neutralize the virus .
The two antibodies Regeneron eventually put forward as an experimental treatment , which may have saved Trump ’ s life , would have been selected using exactly such tests .
Because the 293T cells were acquired so long ago , and have lived so long in the laboratory , they are no longer thought of as involving abortion politics .
Basically , the treatment was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the nature of the way these cells are cultivated over the years , it ’ s like , only technically abortion cells ?
If that makes sense ?
Look , I read a lot of sci-fi , but I ’ m still that dude that got a C in Biology .
Still , it ’ s not a good look , considering the Trump administration has made moves to prevent research from going forward on aborted cells .
The administration formed an ethics panel in the Department of Health and Human Services that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 13 of the 14 proposals presented to it .
The reason given was that they focused on cultivating cells from newer abortions as opposed to older ones , like the treatment Regeneron crafted .
Scientists have argued that cells cultivated from newer abortions would be beneficial as they could potentially create new and useful cell lines .

The antibody cocktail used to treat President Donald Trump’s case of coronavirus uses cells originally derived from aborted fetuses.
The MIT Technology Review found that Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, the company responsible for crafting the antibody cocktail used by Trump, tested it using cells originally cultivated from aborted tissue.
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*clears throat* OOOOOOOOOO, THEY IN TROUBLEEEEEE.
Just kidding, y’all. As if Republicans would ever face consequences for their blatant hypocrisies.
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The Trump administration has been incredibly firm in its pro-life views, with Vice President and Venus flytrap Mike Pence emphasizing those views during Wednesday’s vice-presidential debate with Sen. Kamala Harris (D-Calif.). In 2019, the Trump Administration moved to prevent the National Institutes of Health from funding the exact kind of research that may have saved the president’s life.
While I would love to sit here and be like, “Oh, so you pro-choice when it comes to saving your life and/or marriage?” it’s quite likely that Trump wasn’t aware of the fact his treatment was originally tested with aborted tissue. The development process is incredibly complex and one would have to have a background in pharmaceuticals to really parse through it.
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From the Technology Review:
According to Regeneron, laboratory tests used to assess the potency of its antibodies employed a standardized supply of cells called HEK 293T, whose origin was kidney tissue from an abortion in the Netherlands in the 1970s. Since then, the 293T cells have been “immortalized,” meaning they keep dividing in the lab, somewhat like a cancer, and have undergone other genetic changes and additions. According to Regeneron, it and many other labs employ 293T cells to manufacture virus “pseudoparticles,” which are virus-like structures that contain the “spike” protein of the deadly coronavirus. It needs those to test how well different antibodies will neutralize the virus. The two antibodies Regeneron eventually put forward as an experimental treatment, which may have saved Trump’s life, would have been selected using exactly such tests. Because the 293T cells were acquired so long ago, and have lived so long in the laboratory, they are no longer thought of as involving abortion politics.
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Basically, the treatment was tested on aborted tissue but due to the nature of the way these cells are cultivated over the years, it’s like, only technically abortion cells? If that makes sense?
Look, I read a lot of sci-fi, but I’m still that dude that got a C in Biology.
Still, it’s not a good look, considering the Trump administration has made moves to prevent research from going forward on aborted cells. The administration formed an ethics panel in the Department of Health and Human Services that, in August, rejected funding for 13 of the 14 proposals presented to it. The reason given was that they focused on cultivating cells from newer abortions as opposed to older ones, like the treatment Regeneron crafted.
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Scientists have argued that cells cultivated from newer abortions would be beneficial as they could potentially create new and useful cell lines.


theroot--2020-10-08--The 10 Best Deals of October 8, 2020

The 10 Best Deals of October 8, 2020

It ’ s October 8 , and we at Kinja Deals are here bringing you the top 10 best deals , deals , and also deals .
So you can pay your bills—telephone bills auto bills , and then maybe you can chill .
Snag a new pair of sneakers to replace your old ones .
Prepare for the second wave by saving a package of toilet paper .
And say goodbye to aluminum filled personal care products with Native deodorant .
If you ’ re still looking for more savings , check out Thursday ’ s best deals overall @ @ @ @ @ @ @ music hands-free in your car then you ’ re in luck !
For a low , low $ 20 , Prime members can connect to the Alexa app on your phone and jam out through your vehicle ’ s speakers via auxiliary or Bluetooth .
The Echo Auto has eight microphones so it ca n hear your voice through loud noises throughout the duration of your trip .
You ’ ll also be able to stream Amazon Music , Apple Music , Spotify , and other servi ces with the sound of your @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you can snatch up a free 6-month subscription with your Echo Auto for the same price—just bear in mind it will auto-renew when the 6 months are up , so you may want to head into your settings and turn that “ feature ” off if you ’ re not sure whether you ’ ll keep it after the trial is over .
I would grab this deal before it slips away !
This deal was originally published by Ignacia Fulcher .
If you ’ ve been looking for a way to take @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s ) without touching , you should look into this infrared forehead thermometer .
It measures the heat coming off you in about a second for the best possible reading .
You can also use it in the ear .
It ’ s only $ 26 , which is about $ 34 off the original list price .
I would grab it before it ’ s gone .
This article was originally published by Quentyn Kennemer .
It ’ s the happiest time of year .
Pumpkins are on stoops , leaves are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ dropping .
This means the fall wardrobe is in full swing .
If you need to bulk up on cozy sweaters , warm flannels , and stylish boots you ’ re in luck .
Starting today and going through Sunday take 40 % off anything in the sale section at Anthropologie .
Speaking of cozy sweaters , the Carly sweater ( $ 42 ) is 64 % off , colorful , and is an acrylic/wool blend .
The soft pastels will look great with jeans or leggings for ultimate comfort in cool climates @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a button-down underneath for a dressier look .
Either way , this is one autumn essential you can check off the list .
An extra pair of sneakers is always a good idea and these Platform ones from Harper ( $ 54 ) are very much on-trend .
This style is coming back so these are a win-win .
Being fashion-forward and saving money is the ultimate goal .
Cushioned , a suede/leather combo , and they come in three different colors to match with your already chic wardrobe .
The centerpiece of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Throw a big sweatshirt or sweater over a black pair and you are good to hang at brunch or lounge while watching football .
This is the height of snuggly .
These ones from Free People are top quality , come in four colors , and are well over 50 % off the original price .
Free shipping on all orders over $ 50 .
This deal was originally published by Sheilah Villari .
Folks , let me tell you , Sunday Scaries CBD makes a difference , and I ’ m not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cut of the sales .
I ’ ve been taking everything from oil droppers , gummies , and “ Unicorn Jerky ” for months now as a substitute for the , uhh , other substances I started to depend on during lockdown , and it ’ s made a huge difference .
Gummies , of course , are the most fun way to enjoy a healthy dose of CBD—especially when they ’ re strawberry flavored and infused with vitamin C for an extra boost of immunity .
For a limited time you can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ less than you ’ d normally pay off the shelf using our exclusive promo code ESINV25 , bringing your grand total to just $ 23 .
Since it ’ s Breast Cancer Awareness Month , for every purchase made , Sunday Scaries donates $ 2 to The Pink Agenda , a nonprofit organization devoted to breast cancer research fundraising and raising awareness for the disease .
Chill out while supporting a good cause and take advantage of this deal sooner rather than later , as this deal only lasts a limited time .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Carey .
With Cyberpunk 2077 going gold , there are no more delays to fear .
If you ’ re on PC and ready to dive into what ’ s undoubtedly the biggest game of the generation so far ( at least as far as hype and expectations are concerned ) , you ’ ll want to head to Eneba and place a pre-order with exclusive code KINJA25 .
That ’ ll get you a digital copy redeemable at GOG ( activation instructions here ) for just $ 46 , one of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ yet for Cyberpunk 2077 on any platform .
Unlike Geralt of the ancient ( and totally fictitious ) land of Rivia , Cyberpunk takes us into a not-so-distant future where guys good and bad are yoked up with cybernetic enhancements .
Life is generally fine until it ’ s discovered there ’ s a prototypical component that grants immortality to whoever has it installed , and , of course , all hell breaks loose to secure it .
Cyberpunk 2077 was originally set to be out this Spring and was once delayed until @ @ @ @ @ @ @ delay to November 19 , 2020 .
But no worries : that date won ’ t change from here on out .
This deal was originally published by Quentyn Kennemer .
For a short time , you can get a case of Scott toilet paper for 50 % off the original list price .
Yes , that means you won ’ t run out like back in March when no one was buying food , but everyone was buying stuff to wipe their asses with .
The case comes with 80 rolls for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has 550 sheets of 2-ply !
So really , your butt will be softly caressed for months to come .
Hopefully , you have a place to put em .
And , if you need to wipe your hands , you can grab some matching towels while you ’ re here .
This deal was originally published by Ignacia Fulcher .
If you need a second screen on the road , you don ’ t want to be lugging an entire monitor around , but when they ’ re portable like this 15 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ non-issue .
Now $ 130 ( $ 50 off ) , you ’ re getting a 1080p IPS display with a respectable 7ms response time .
There ’ s just one catch : this one is USB-C only , so you ’ ll need a modern smartphone , laptop , or tablet that uses USB-C for video out , particularly one that supports DisplayPort Alt mode .
Check your hardware to ensure it ’ ll work before ordering .
This deal was originally published by Quentyn Kennemer .
Whether you have a want @ @ @ @ @ @ @ puppy or just check in on a senior pooch a pet cam can be a handy tool .
This one from Netvue is 15 % off right now .
It has a full coverage of 1080P HD resolution and beams a sharp clear image right to your phone to ease your mind if you have a fussy new doggo .
I don ’ t know if the two-way audio is a blessing or a curse to say hello and confuse your pet .
But you could use this feature to scold them if @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the throw pillows .
It has smart motion technology so you ’ ll only be alerted when there is movement and you don ’ t need to keep the feed up .
It supports night vision and even lets you save footage so if Fido does something particularly naughty or cute , probably both , you can share and revisit .
This camera can also be used for a new baby but honestly checking in on an active pupper is probably more fun than a sleeping child .
This deal was originally @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are such a wild trend and just when I think it ’ s time has passed a deal like this pops up and everyone goes crazy .
In all seriousness , my pals who have one love it .
If you ’ re in the hunt this Bella Pro Series model is half off today only at Best Buy .
This 4.3-quart touchscreen air fryer is powerful and efficient to turn all your goods crispy and evenly cooked .
The heat tech also makes sure you aren ’ t wasting energy as it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ convection ovens on the market .
Although it might seem small it can handle almost four pounds of food at a time , so if you ’ re thinking of making a ton of french fries the Bella Pro can take it .
There ’ s auto-shutoff after thirty minutes so no fear about accidentally leaving it on .
This fryer is easy to clean because the pan and tray can go in the dishwasher .
It ’ s simple to use for frying , broiling , roasting , reheating , and even @ @ @ @ @ @ @ savings all around .
Plenty of new things to try once get this appliance in your kitchen .
This deal was originally published by Sheilah Villari .
Ooooooweeee , you ’ re musty .
If you ’ ve been putting off showering because you can ’ t find a gentle soap , check out Native ’ s Gold Box today .
You ’ ll get up to 30 % off their natural hygiene products .
The vegan deodorant is especially important , because nothing ’ s worse than chemicals burning your pits up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a pack for $ 25 .
The body wash comes in a similar package for $ 17 , and it does have a few nasties in the ingredients list , but Native ’ s formula is much more friendly to your skin than your average .
This deal was originally published by Quentyn Kennemer .

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

Thursday’s Best Deals | Kinja Deals
It’s October 8, and we at Kinja Deals are here bringing you the top 10 best deals, deals, and also deals. So you can pay your bills—telephone bills auto bills, and then maybe you can chill. Snag a new pair of sneakers to replace your old ones. Prepare for the second wave by saving a package of toilet paper. And say goodbye to aluminum filled personal care products with Native deodorant.
If you’re still looking for more savings, check out Thursday’s best deals overall.
#1: amazon echo dot
If you want to play your music hands-free in your car then you’re in luck! For a low, low $20, Prime members can connect to the Alexa app on your phone and jam out through your vehicle’s speakers via auxiliary or Bluetooth. The Echo Auto has eight microphones so it ca n hear your voice through loud noises throughout the duration of your trip. You’ll also be able to stream Amazon Music, Apple Music, Spotify, and other servi ces with the sound of your voice.
Speaking of Amazon Music, you can snatch up a free 6-month subscription with your Echo Auto for the same price—just bear in mind it will auto-renew when the 6 months are up, so you may want to head into your settings and turn that “feature” off if you’re not sure whether you’ll keep it after the trial is over. I would grab this deal before it slips away!
This deal was originally published by Ignacia Fulcher.
#2: Infared forehead thermometer
If you’ve been looking for a way to take your temperature (or anyone else’s) without touching, you should look into this infrared forehead thermometer. It measures the heat coming off you in about a second for the best possible reading. You can also use it in the ear. It’s only $26, which is about $34 off the original list price. I would grab it before it’s gone.
This article was originally published by Quentyn Kennemer.
#3: 40% off sale items at anthropologie
It’s the happiest time of year. Pumpkins are on stoops, leaves are changing color, and the temperature is dropping. This means the fall wardrobe is in full swing. If you need to bulk up on cozy sweaters, warm flannels, and stylish boots you’re in luck. Starting today and going through Sunday take 40% off anything in the sale section at Anthropologie.
Speaking of cozy sweaters, the Carly sweater ($42) is 64% off, colorful, and is an acrylic/wool blend. The soft pastels will look great with jeans or leggings for ultimate comfort in cool climates. You could even layer this will a button-down underneath for a dressier look. Either way, this is one autumn essential you can check off the list.
An extra pair of sneakers is always a good idea and these Platform ones from Harper ($54) are very much on-trend. This style is coming back so these are a win-win. Being fashion-forward and saving money is the ultimate goal. Cushioned, a suede/leather combo, and they come in three different colors to match with your already chic wardrobe.
The centerpiece of many a Sunday Funday is leggings. Throw a big sweatshirt or sweater over a black pair and you are good to hang at brunch or lounge while watching football. This is the height of snuggly. These ones from Free People are top quality, come in four colors, and are well over 50% off the original price.
Free shipping on all orders over $50.
This deal was originally published by Sheilah Villari.
#4: sunday scaries bra berries cbd
Folks, let me tell you, Sunday Scaries CBD makes a difference, and I’m not just saying that because we get a cut of the sales. I’ve been taking everything from oil droppers, gummies, and “Unicorn Jerky” for months now as a substitute for the, uhh, other substances I started to depend on during lockdown, and it’s made a huge difference. Gummies, of course, are the most fun way to enjoy a healthy dose of CBD—especially when they’re strawberry flavored and infused with vitamin C for an extra boost of immunity. For a limited time you can see what I mean for 25% less than you’d normally pay off the shelf using our exclusive promo code ESINV25, bringing your grand total to just $23.
Since it’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month, for every purchase made, Sunday Scaries donates $2 to The Pink Agenda, a nonprofit organization devoted to breast cancer research fundraising and raising awareness for the disease. Chill out while supporting a good cause and take advantage of this deal sooner rather than later, as this deal only lasts a limited time.
This deal was originally published by Gabe Carey.
#5: cYberpunk 2077 [exclusive]
With Cyberpunk 2077 going gold, there are no more delays to fear. If you’re on PC and ready to dive into what’s undoubtedly the biggest game of the generation so far (at least as far as hype and expectations are concerned), you’ll want to head to Eneba and place a pre-order with exclusive code KINJA25. That’ll get you a digital copy redeemable at GOG (activation instructions here) for just $46, one of the lowest pre-order prices we’ve seen yet for Cyberpunk 2077 on any platform.
Unlike Geralt of the ancient (and totally fictitious) land of Rivia, Cyberpunk takes us into a not-so-distant future where guys good and bad are yoked up with cybernetic enhancements. Life is generally fine until it’s discovered there’s a prototypical component that grants immortality to whoever has it installed, and, of course, all hell breaks loose to secure it.
Cyberpunk 2077 was originally set to be out this Spring and was once delayed until September, but it since suffered another delay to November 19, 2020. But no worries: that date won’t change from here on out.
This deal was originally published by Quentyn Kennemer.
#6: 80 rolls of toilet paper
For a short time, you can get a case of Scott toilet paper for 50% off the original list price. Yes, that means you won’t run out like back in March when no one was buying food, but everyone was buying stuff to wipe their asses with. The case comes with 80 rolls for about $54, and each roll has 550 sheets of 2-ply! So really, your butt will be softly caressed for months to come. Hopefully, you have a place to put em. And, if you need to wipe your hands, you can grab some matching towels while you’re here.
This deal was originally published by Ignacia Fulcher.
#7: acer usb-c portable monitor
If you need a second screen on the road, you don’t want to be lugging an entire monitor around, but when they’re portable like this 15" Acer, that’s a non-issue. Now $130 ($50 off), you’re getting a 1080p IPS display with a respectable 7ms response time. There’s just one catch: this one is USB-C only, so you’ll need a modern smartphone, laptop, or tablet that uses USB-C for video out, particularly one that supports DisplayPort Alt mode. Check your hardware to ensure it’ll work before ordering.
This deal was originally published by Quentyn Kennemer.
#8: Netuve pet cam
Whether you have a want to keep an eye on a new puppy or just check in on a senior pooch a pet cam can be a handy tool. This one from Netvue is 15% off right now.
It has a full coverage of 1080P HD resolution and beams a sharp clear image right to your phone to ease your mind if you have a fussy new doggo. I don’t know if the two-way audio is a blessing or a curse to say hello and confuse your pet. But you could use this feature to scold them if they are making a chew toy out of the throw pillows. It has smart motion technology so you’ll only be alerted when there is movement and you don’t need to keep the feed up. It supports night vision and even lets you save footage so if Fido does something particularly naughty or cute, probably both, you can share and revisit. This camera can also be used for a new baby but honestly checking in on an active pupper is probably more fun than a sleeping child.
Free shipping for Amazon Prime members.
This deal was originally published by Sheilah Villari.
#9: bella pro series air fryer
Air Fryers are such a wild trend and just when I think it’s time has passed a deal like this pops up and everyone goes crazy. In all seriousness, my pals who have one love it. If you’re in the hunt this Bella Pro Series model is half off today only at Best Buy.
This 4.3-quart touchscreen air fryer is powerful and efficient to turn all your goods crispy and evenly cooked. The heat tech also makes sure you aren’t wasting energy as it preheats much fast than other fryers and convection ovens on the market. Although it might seem small it can handle almost four pounds of food at a time, so if you’re thinking of making a ton of french fries the Bella Pro can take it. There’s auto-shutoff after thirty minutes so no fear about accidentally leaving it on. This fryer is easy to clean because the pan and tray can go in the dishwasher. It’s simple to use for frying, broiling, roasting, reheating, and even dehydrating with very little oil. Literally savings all around. Plenty of new things to try once get this appliance in your kitchen.
This deal was originally published by Sheilah Villari.
#10: Native natural gold box
Ooooooweeee, you’re musty. If you’ve been putting off showering because you can’t find a gentle soap, check out Native’s Gold Box today. You’ll get up to 30% off their natural hygiene products. The vegan deodorant is especially important, because nothing’s worse than chemicals burning your pits up, and you can get three in a pack for $25. The body wash comes in a similar package for $17, and it does have a few nasties in the ingredients list, but Native’s formula is much more friendly to your skin than your average.
This deal was originally published by Quentyn Kennemer.


theroot--2020-10-08--Mariah Carey's Latest No. 1? Her Bestselling Memoir

She ’ s the songbird with the voice that gives butterflies , but Mariah Carey ’ s latest hit is of the literary variety : H er recently released and much-buzzed-about memoir , The Meaning of Mariah Carey , is No .
1 for nonfiction on the New York ’ s Times Bestsellers Print Hardcover list .
The news broke on Wednesday night ( when many of us were distracted by the performance of another talented woman of color ) , and Carey quickly tweeted in celebration of the triumph , writing : Wow .
Stunned , humbled & grateful @ @ @ @ @ @ @ life for the last three years .
❤U MAD .
to everyone who has taken the time to read my story & make this dream a reality .
It almost makes it tolerable to have lived through these experiences !
LOL “ The book , which details Carey ’ s romantic travails , her career ups and downs , the racism she experienced as a biracial child and much more , hit stores last week , ” Billboard reminds us .
While some ( seemingly including the magazine ) may have thought the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tweet was a jab at her detractors , it was no doubt a shoutout to her co-writer , veteran journalist , stylist and fashion activist Michaela Angela Davis , who helped bring Carey ’ s revealing and , at times , painful life story to the masses .
( Davis is also known to many of her friends and followers as MAD—so Carey was essentially tweeting “ Love u MAD.
” ) Of working through Carey , Davis wrote : “ There is beauty even through bleakness ... celebrated like the family we @ @ @ @

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

She’s the songbird with the voice that gives us butterflies, but Mariah Carey’s latest hit is of the literary variety: Her recently released and much-buzzed-about memoir, The Meaning of Mariah Carey, is No. 1 for nonfiction on the New York’s Times Bestsellers Print Hardcover list.
The news broke on Wednesday night (when many of us were distracted by the performance of another talented woman of color), and Carey quickly tweeted in celebration of the triumph, writing:
Wow. Stunned, humbled & grateful. Writing this memoir nearly consumed my life for the last three years. ❤U MAD. to everyone who has taken the time to read my story & make this dream a reality. It almost makes it tolerable to have lived through these experiences! LOL
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“The book, which details Carey’s romantic travails, her career ups and downs, the racism she experienced as a biracial child and much more, hit stores last week,” Billboard reminds us.
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While some (seemingly including the magazine) may have thought the “UMAD” in Carey’s tweet was a jab at her detractors, it was no doubt a shoutout to her co-writer, veteran journalist, stylist and fashion activist Michaela Angela Davis, who helped bring Carey’s revealing and, at times, painful life story to the masses. (Davis is also known to many of her friends and followers as MAD—so Carey was essentially tweeting “Love u MAD.”)
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Of working through Carey, Davis wrote: “There is beauty even through bleakness...celebrated like the family we have become.”


theroot--2020-10-08--Trump Implies That He Could’ve Gotten COVID-19 From Gold Star Families

President Donald Trump has consistently proven one thing since taking over the White House : He will do and say anything to save his own untanned ass .
On Thursday , the president of people who are standing down and standing by implied that he could ’ ve caught COVID-19 from Gold Star families that he met in the White House ’ s East Room , “ with no social distancing and few masks on the evening of Sunday , September 27 , ” a day after the Rose Garden coronavirus orgy , “ where multiple attendees have subsequently tested @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I ’ m the president of the country .
I can ’ t hang around in a basement .
So , I figure there would be a chance I would catch it .
Sometimes I would be in groups of…for instance , Gold Star families , I met with Gold Star families , I didn ’ t want to cancel that , ” he said .
Trump made these comments on Thursday morning during a call-in interview on Fox Business in which he blabbered about a bunch of different topics .
“ They @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , sometimes , they want to hug me and they want to kiss me , and they do , and frankly I ’ m not telling them to back up .
I ’ m not doing it.
” CNN notes that Trump ’ s snitching and blaming Gold Star families comes after months of neglecting the fuck out of safety guidelines because Trump is dumber than a homeless cheerleading boot .
CNN points out that Trump ’ s newest claims go further than his previous claims that senior adviser Hope Hicks contracted the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or law enforcement .
“ It ’ s very , very hard when you are with people from the military or from law enforcement , and they come over to you and they want to hug you and they want to kiss you because we really have done a good job for them .
And you get close and things happen , ” Trump told Sean Hannity hours before his diagnosis was publicly disclosed , CNN reports .
The reality is that Trump has no idea how he contracted the virus as it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ considering he has at least three ounces of warm goat blood every morning before biting the head off a rat and spitting it into his rat ’ s head cup .
But it ’ s admittedly low even for the president to imply that Gold Star families , military and police are the point of origin for the White House turning into a coronavirus whorehouse .
The White House is not even willing to worry itself with contact tracing to determine who may have come in contact with the virus and how to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ just don ’ t give AF .
Trump held numerous events actively shirking social distancing and mask wearing in the days , weeks and months before his infection , many of which were indoors .
And hundreds of officials who were not in daily contact with the President , but regularly interact with key officials who were , were not regularly tested .
The White House has declined to provide a full list of attendees in the East Room , but CNN has reached out to some of the families and organizations known @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the president and CEO of the Greatest GENERATIONS Foundation , said in a statement that all Gold Star Family attendees were tested by the White House ahead of the event , and , like the Supreme Court event , all tested negative for coronavirus .
The rapid antigen tests administered by the White House are known to deliver a high rate of false negatives .
“ Considering it has been 12-days since the event , All Gold Star family are all doing well and exhibit no symptoms of Covid-19 , ” Davis @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the group is providing a “ daily update ” to the White House Office of Public Liaison .
Never forget that during the 2016 election , Trump went after Khizr Khan , whose son , Army Capt .
Humayun Khan , died in Iraq in 2004 , all because Khan spoke out against Trump at the Democratic National Convention .
“ Who wrote that ?
Did Hillary ’ s script writers write it ?
” Trump said in an interview at the time .
“ I think I ’ ve made a lot @ @ @ @ @ @ @ very hard.
” Trump has also reportedly referred to members of the Armed Forces who died in war as “ losers ” and “ suckers ” .
So I would like to amend my early statement as nothing appears to be too low for this president .

President Donald Trump has consistently proven one thing since taking over the White House: He will do and say anything to save his own untanned ass.
On Thursday, the president of people who are standing down and standing by implied that he could’ve caught COVID-19 from Gold Star families that he met in the White House’s East Room, “with no social distancing and few masks on the evening of Sunday, September 27,” a day after the Rose Garden coronavirus orgy, “where multiple attendees have subsequently tested positive,” CNN reports.
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“I’m the president of the country. I can’t hang around in a basement. So, I figure there would be a chance I would catch it. Sometimes I would be in groups of…for instance, Gold Star families, I met with Gold Star families, I didn’t want to cancel that,” he said.
Trump made these comments on Thursday morning during a call-in interview on Fox Business in which he blabbered about a bunch of different topics. “They come within an inch of my face, sometimes, they want to hug me and they want to kiss me, and they do, and frankly I’m not telling them to back up. I’m not doing it.”
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CNN notes that Trump’s snitching and blaming Gold Star families comes after months of neglecting the fuck out of safety guidelines because Trump is dumber than a homeless cheerleading boot.
CNN points out that Trump’s newest claims go further than his previous claims that senior adviser Hope Hicks contracted the virus from a member of the military or law enforcement.
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“It’s very, very hard when you are with people from the military or from law enforcement, and they come over to you and they want to hug you and they want to kiss you because we really have done a good job for them. And you get close and things happen,” Trump told Sean Hannity hours before his diagnosis was publicly disclosed, CNN reports.
The reality is that Trump has no idea how he contracted the virus as it could have come from an infected goat considering he has at least three ounces of warm goat blood every morning before biting the head off a rat and spitting it into his rat’s head cup. But it’s admittedly low even for the president to imply that Gold Star families, military and police are the point of origin for the White House turning into a coronavirus whorehouse.
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The White House is not even willing to worry itself with contact tracing to determine who may have come in contact with the virus and how to stop the potential spread, because they just don’t give AF.
From CNN:
Trump held numerous events actively shirking social distancing and mask wearing in the days, weeks and months before his infection, many of which were indoors. And hundreds of officials who were not in daily contact with the President, but regularly interact with key officials who were, were not regularly tested. The White House has declined to provide a full list of attendees in the East Room, but CNN has reached out to some of the families and organizations known to be in attendance. Timothy Davis, the president and CEO of the Greatest GENERATIONS Foundation, said in a statement that all Gold Star Family attendees were tested by the White House ahead of the event, and, like the Supreme Court event, all tested negative for coronavirus. The rapid antigen tests administered by the White House are known to deliver a high rate of false negatives. “Considering it has been 12-days since the event, All Gold Star family are all doing well and exhibit no symptoms of Covid-19,” Davis said in the statement, adding that the group is providing a “daily update” to the White House Office of Public Liaison.
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Never forget that during the 2016 election, Trump went after Khizr Khan, whose son, Army Capt. Humayun Khan, died in Iraq in 2004, all because Khan spoke out against Trump at the Democratic National Convention.
“Who wrote that? Did Hillary’s script writers write it?” Trump said in an interview at the time. “I think I’ve made a lot of sacrifices. I work very, very hard.”
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Trump has also reportedly referred to members of the Armed Forces who died in war as “losers” and “suckers”.
So I would like to amend my early statement as nothing appears to be too low for this president.


theroot--2020-10-08--Versace Executive Stopped in Beverly Hills Accuses Cops of Racial Profiling. He’s Right, but Wypipo

Versace Executive Stopped in Beverly Hills Accuses Cops of Racial Profiling. He’s Right, but Wypipo Will Never Admit It

Here ’ s a question that I feel like I ’ ve been asking myself for as long as I ’ ve had a driver ’ s license : Why is it that no matter how minor the original offense , cops always ask to search for weapons and drugs after stopping Black people ?
To be fair , I have no concrete proof that this only happens to Black people .
I just know that white people who I ’ ve brought this up to have only ever responded one of two ways : Either they deny it ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ one-time experience of being asked the same by police , or they respond in absolute shock and disbelief that this actually happens .
Anyway , last week , a Black man was stopped by police officers in Beverly Hills , Calif. , while walking across a street after shopping in the area .
He said he was coming from the Versace store—which makes sense , given that it turns out he ’ s Salehe Bembury , vice president of Sneakers and Men ’ s Footwear for Versace .
Body camera video released by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ encounter between Bembury and the officers on October 1 .
When officers approach him and asked Bembury why he jaywalked , he admits , “ I jaywalked , I don ’ t know what to say.
” An officer then proceeds to ask him for his ID , asks him to put his arms behind his back and searches him .
Bembury is also asked if he has any weapons to which he responds , “ I do not.
” Bembury tells the officer he feels “ nervous ” and “ uncomfortable , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Versace shopping bag he is carrying contains a pair of shoes he designed .
“ What ’ s unfortunate is like , I literally designed the shoes that are in this bag , ” Bembury says in the video .
After a few moments , Bembury tells the officer he would like to record the interaction on his cell phone .
Bembury later posted the video on his Instagram account on October 1 with the caption , “ BEVERLY HILLS WHILE BLACK .
I ’ M OK , MY SPIRIT IS NOT.
” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I ’ m in Beverly Hills right now and I ’ m getting *expletive* searched for shopping at the store I work for and just being black.
” An officer responds , “ you ’ re making a completely different narrative.
” Let ’ s talk about that last line from the cop .
A “ completely different narrative ” as opposed to what ?
Your narrative ?
Listen : Maybe me and civil attorney Ben Crump are wrong .
Perhaps it ’ s completely plausible that police would ’ ve stopped Becky-with-the-gentrified-address @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with a Versace shopping bag because she crossed the street in a way that is technically illegal .
While we ’ re in wypipo ’ s imaginary land of unicorns , leprechauns and lack of systemic racism , let ’ s consider the possibility that those cops would ’ ve been so suspicious that Karen from Karenshire might have a jailhouse shiv on her person that they felt it necessary to frisk her for weapons .
To Black people—especially those of us who have been stopped over bullshit so many times in our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ routine better than some cops do—what happened to Bembury will always look like officers using any minor infraction they can think of as an excuse to engage in stop-and-frisk .
But white people never think they ’ re being racist .
Instead , it often seems like they ’ re too damn busy being flabbergasted and appalled at the mere mention of racial bias to even consider for a moment that they might have responded to the situation differently if the person they were dealing with was white .
If the BHPD is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” why is there no mention of why Bembury was searched for weapons over a “ pedestrian violation ?
” And why frame this as an effort to “ protect the public ?
” I understand that jaywalking can be dangerous , but the unnecessary search paired with that wording makes it seem like they think certain people are a threat worth protecting the public from based on optics alone ( I just used a lot of words to describe racial profiling. )
.
It ’ s almost as if they ’ re @ @ @ @ @ @ @ narrative .
”

Here’s a question that I feel like I’ve been asking myself for as long as I’ve had a driver’s license: Why is it that no matter how minor the original offense, cops always ask to search for weapons and drugs after stopping Black people?
To be fair, I have no concrete proof that this only happens to Black people. I just know that white people who I’ve brought this up to have only ever responded one of two ways: Either they deny it’s racism by citing some anecdotal, one-time experience of being asked the same by police, or they respond in absolute shock and disbelief that this actually happens.
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Anyway, last week, a Black man was stopped by police officers in Beverly Hills, Calif., while walking across a street after shopping in the area. He said he was coming from the Versace store—which makes sense, given that it turns out he’s Salehe Bembury, vice president of Sneakers and Men’s Footwear for Versace.
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From CNN:
Body camera video released by the police department on Friday shows the encounter between Bembury and the officers on October 1. When officers approach him and asked Bembury why he jaywalked, he admits, “I jaywalked, I don’t know what to say.” An officer then proceeds to ask him for his ID, asks him to put his arms behind his back and searches him. Bembury is also asked if he has any weapons to which he responds, “I do not.” Bembury tells the officer he feels “nervous” and “uncomfortable,” and attempts to explain that the Versace shopping bag he is carrying contains a pair of shoes he designed. “What’s unfortunate is like, I literally designed the shoes that are in this bag,” Bembury says in the video. After a few moments, Bembury tells the officer he would like to record the interaction on his cell phone. Bembury later posted the video on his Instagram account on October 1 with the caption, “BEVERLY HILLS WHILE BLACK. I’M OK, MY SPIRIT IS NOT.” He says in the video, “I’m in Beverly Hills right now and I’m getting *expletive* searched for shopping at the store I work for and just being black.” An officer responds, “you’re making a completely different narrative.”
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Let’s talk about that last line from the cop. A “completely different narrative” as opposed to what? Your narrative?
Listen: Maybe me and civil attorney Ben Crump are wrong.
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Perhaps it’s completely plausible that police would’ve stopped Becky-with-the-gentrified-address in Beverly Hills while she was walking with a Versace shopping bag because she crossed the street in a way that is technically illegal. While we’re in wypipo’s imaginary land of unicorns, leprechauns and lack of systemic racism, let’s consider the possibility that those cops would’ve been so suspicious that Karen from Karenshire might have a jailhouse shiv on her person that they felt it necessary to frisk her for weapons.
To Black people—especially those of us who have been stopped over bullshit so many times in our lives that we know the standard cop routine better than some cops do—what happened to Bembury will always look like officers using any minor infraction they can think of as an excuse to engage in stop-and-frisk.
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But white people never think they’re being racist. Instead, it often seems like they’re too damn busy being flabbergasted and appalled at the mere mention of racial bias to even consider for a moment that they might have responded to the situation differently if the person they were dealing with was white.
More from CNN:
In a statement to CNN, the Beverly Hills Police Department denied Bembury was racially profiled by officers, saying it “does not protect the public based on race.” “Mr. Bembury, as confirmed in the full 3 ½ minute body camera video, was stopped due to a pedestrian violation. The department is committed to full transparency and released the full 3 ½ minute body camera video within 24 hours,” Police Lt. Max Subin said. Reached by CNN on Tuesday about the detention, Bembury said he had no further comment.
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If the BHPD is so “committed to full transparency,” why is there no mention of why Bembury was searched for weapons over a “pedestrian violation?”
And why frame this as an effort to “protect the public?” I understand that jaywalking can be dangerous, but the unnecessary search paired with that wording makes it seem like they think certain people are a threat worth protecting the public from based on optics alone (I just used a lot of words to describe racial profiling.).
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It’s almost as if they’re trying to spin a “completely different narrative.”


theroot--2020-10-08--The Significance of 'I'm Speaking'

The Significance of 'I'm Speaking'

Now that we have your attention .
We can talk about the fly , the facts ( or lack thereof ) , the facial expressions , or the ineffectualness of yet another debate moderator , but what should never be forgotten in the midst of the many eyebrow-raising moments in Wednesday night ’ s vice-presidential debates is that no matter what you think of Kamala Harris , she made history on that stage as the first woman of color to come so close to holding such a high seat of power .
It was a point the current vice president @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of acknowledging , offering up this milestone as a conciliatory gesture ; his own sense of entitlement too entrenched to mask the tinge of condescension in his delivery .
Even if the compliment seemed genuine to some , Pence ’ s behavior clearly communicated otherwise , as he repeatedly pontificated over any and all half-hearted attempts USA Today ’ s Washington Bureau Chief Susan Page made to moderate .
He did not hesitate to interrupt and interject into several of Harris ’ responses , as well , making it clear he considered her @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as David Frum noted in the Atlantic : As several noted—and Harris herself repeatedly reminded Pence—it was he who was likely out of his depth in comparison to both her incisive intelligence and breadth of experience as the former attorney general-turned-state senator of California .
Nevertheless , with the arrogance and cognitive dissonance only a man who has spent the last four years of his life bending to the will of Donald Trump can muster , still , he persisted .
Frankly , his bulldozing , however sociopathically calm , wasn ’ t @ @ @ @ @ @ @ controlled and docile Dr. Jekyll to Trump ’ s bombastic Mr. Hyde , two faces of the same dangerous and pathological white male superiority complex .
White male dominance is so foundational in American culture and discourse that Page was nearly prone within its grasp , literally thanking the vice president of electoral voters for disrespecting her role as moderator , and consistently allowing him to well exceed his allotted time .
No such grace would be afforded to Harris , who repeatedly attempted to reclaim her stolen time with far more resistance @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fortitude when regulating the Democratic vice-presidential candidate .
Were our democracy not hanging in the balance , it would ’ ve been an almost hysterically teachable moment , since the dynamic of the three individuals on that stage was a microcosm of American politics ( and by extension , society ) itself : the white man emboldened by his presumption of place ; the woman of color dutifully if begrudgingly playing by the prescribed rules to fight the good fight against tyranny , and the 53 percent of white women too cowed by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ do the right and rational thing in respect for the greater good .
These were the more obvious , all-too-familiar dynamics at play on the stage last night—but they made Harris ’ simple and yet stunning declaration , “ I ’ m speaking , ” all the more significant .
Women everywhere—and likely of every political persuasion—no doubt saw themselves in the much-remarked-upon moment when Harris dared to assert that she too was entitled to her time , space , and assertions about our democracy .
Women across social media immediately recognized Pence @ @ @ @ @ @ @ patriarchy and misogyny every woman has experienced , from the boardroom to our bedrooms .
But make no mistake : Harris ’ declaration most deeply resonated with those of us living very specific experience of being Black women in America .
Yes , us—you know , the ones expected to save a precious democracy that has never prioritized us ( notably , doing that and other work for an average $ .62 on the dollar paid to white men in the same positions ) .
Us , upon whom the weight of being @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s messes is always thrust , no matter how high we climb—and especially while attempting to ascend to the second-highest seat in the land .
Us , who remain the pragmatists despite blatant prejudices—not because we ’ re weak , but because we ’ ve historically found success in subverting the system from within .
( Case in point : it was Black women who lobbied Biden to choose Harris as his running mate , in spite of many concurrently holding misgivings about her prosecutorial record . )
“ America has this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who come in to clean up the mess that they make .
That has historically been our position , ” educator and author of Eloquent Rage , Brittney Cooper , recently told us during a recent episode of The Root ’ s new podcast , It ’ s Lit !
“ I call it us doing the custodial work of democracy , ” she continued , adding , “ I hope that Kamala will not be constricted by that .
And then she will be able to do the thing that Black women @ @ @ @ @ @ @ clean up the mess and then , we make some new possibilities ... though I typically just think America gives us shit and then tells us they gave us a trophy.
” Given both the amount of shit and the outsized expectations placed upon Harris as she aspires to the vice presidency , her own assertion of her right to speak pales in comparison .
And yet , while many will report on the moment , fewer will recognize or appreciate the tightrope she walked on Wednesday night .
Teetering precariously between white @ @ @ @ @ @ @ distrust , Harris was tasked with neither being too angry , nor too reactive , nor too ... much .
Arguably , this also includes being burdened with the restraint of not being too brilliant or dynamic , so as not to upstage the man she was there to represent and support ( whom she had also previously trounced on the debate stage ) .
As noted by several Black women online , this is a dance exclusive to the Black female experience .
Kerry Washington rightly noted ( in response to a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ CNN ’ s Dana Bash , no less ) “ the mental & emotional gymnastic required of Black women in these situations , ” tweeting , “ [ There ’ s ] not a chance in the world [ Kamala Harris ] wasn ’ t thinking about this .
We don ’ t ever NOT think about it .
Her superpower ?
!
Making it look easy.
” To further understand both the nuances at play and Harris ’ masterful restraint , one need look no further than Page ’ s complicity in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to speak over both her and the woman of color on stage , contrasted with her effective punishment of Harris for Pence ’ s rudeness .
Page ’ s passivity echoed the largest failure of white feminism , which , for all its altruism , has unfailingly centered whiteness , first and foremost .
( In case you ’ re wondering , Page says she “ felt good about how it went , ” reports The Hill . )
That Harris should have to reclaim her time from the person tasked with keeping @ @ @ @ @ @ @ feminists have been forced to reimagine and reclaim a liberation movement we helped build .
And so , we must center ourselves .
Long after it leaves the news cycle , “ I ’ m speaking ” should be more than a meme-able moment .
For Black women , it is a rallying cry .
Our much-depended-upon participation in this ongoing American project can not be predicated upon our silence .
We are speaking , we are holding our space , and we are entitled to hold you accountable .
Yes , even @ @ @ @

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

Now that we have your attention.
We can talk about the fly, the facts (or lack thereof), the facial expressions, or the ineffectualness of yet another debate moderator, but what should never be forgotten in the midst of the many eyebrow-raising moments in Wednesday night’s vice-presidential debates is that no matter what you think of Kamala Harris, she made history on that stage as the first woman of color to come so close to holding such a high seat of power.
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It was a point the current vice president, Mike Pence, made a point of acknowledging, offering up this milestone as a conciliatory gesture; his own sense of entitlement too entrenched to mask the tinge of condescension in his delivery. Even if the compliment seemed genuine to some, Pence’s behavior clearly communicated otherwise, as he repeatedly lied pontificated over any and all half-hearted attempts USA Today’s Washington Bureau Chief Susan Page made to moderate. He did not hesitate to interrupt and interject into several of Harris’ responses, as well, making it clear he considered her less an opponent than an inconvenience, as David Frum noted in the Atlantic:
At the core of the Trump political project is the reassertion of dominance over the historically dominated by the historically dominant. That reassertion of dominance was Pence’s supreme project at this debate too. Pence did not imitate his boss’s manic and undisciplined—and ultimately catastrophically unsuccessful—style of dominance. Instead, he brought to this debate the more measured and controlled disdain of a man who had considered the matter carefully—and decided that the woman in front of him had no right to control him and that the woman to his right did not deserve to be onstage with him.
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As several others noted—and Harris herself repeatedly reminded Pence—it was he who was likely out of his depth in comparison to both her incisive intelligence and breadth of experience as the former attorney general-turned-state senator of California. Nevertheless, with the arrogance and cognitive dissonance only a man who has spent the last four years of his life bending to the will of Donald Trump can muster, still, he persisted. Frankly, his bulldozing, however sociopathically calm, wasn’t surprising. Pence has always been the controlled and docile Dr. Jekyll to Trump’s bombastic Mr. Hyde, two faces of the same dangerous and pathological white male superiority complex.
White male dominance is so foundational in American culture and discourse that Page was nearly prone within its grasp, literally thanking the vice president of electoral voters for disrespecting her role as moderator, and consistently allowing him to well exceed his allotted time. No such grace would be afforded to Harris, who repeatedly attempted to reclaim her stolen time with far more resistance from Page, who suddenly found her fortitude when regulating the Democratic vice-presidential candidate.
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Were our democracy not hanging in the balance, it would’ve been an almost hysterically teachable moment, since the dynamic of the three individuals on that stage was a microcosm of American politics (and by extension, society) itself: the white man emboldened by his presumption of place; the woman of color dutifully if begrudgingly playing by the prescribed rules to fight the good fight against tyranny, and the 53 percent of white women too cowed by their proximity to white male power to do the right and rational thing in respect for the greater good.
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Tho se were the more obvious, all-too-familiar dynamics at play on the stage last night—but they made Harris’ simple and yet stunning declaration, “I’m speaking,” all the more significant. Women everywhere—and likely of every political persuasion—no doubt saw themselves in the much-remarked-upon moment when Harris dared to assert that she too was entitled to her time, space, and assertions about our democracy.
“Mr. Vice President. I am speaking.”
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Women across social media immediately recognized Pence’s behavior as a facet of patriarchy and misogyny every woman has experienced, from the boardroom to our bedrooms. But make no mistake: Harris’ declaration most deeply resonated with those of us living very specific experience of being Black women in America.
Yes, us—you know, the ones expected to save a precious democracy that has never prioritized us (notably, doing that and other work for an average $.62 on the dollar paid to white men in the same positions). Us, upon whom the weight of being the “cleanup woman” for America’s messes is always thrust, no matter how high we climb—and especially while attempting to ascend to the second-highest seat in the land. Us, who remain the pragmatists despite blatant prejudices—not because we’re weak, but because we’ve historically found success in subverting the system from within. (Case in point: it was Black women who lobbied Biden to choose Harris as his running mate, in spite of many concurrently holding misgivings about her prosecutorial record.)
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“America has this deep sense of Black women as people who come in to clean up the mess that they make. That has historically been our position,” educator and author of Eloquent Rage, Brittney Cooper, recently told us during a recent episode of The Root’s new podcast, It’s Lit! “I call it us doing the custodial work of democracy,” she continued, adding, “I hope that Kamala will not be constricted by that. And then she will be able to do the thing that Black women typically do, which is that we clean up the mess and then, we make some new possibilities...though I typically just think America gives us shit and then tells us they gave us a trophy.”
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Given both the amount of shit and the outsized expectations placed upon Harris as she aspires to the vice presidency, her own assertion of her right to speak pales in comparison. And yet, while many will report on the moment, fewer will recognize or appreciate the tightrope she walked on Wednesday night. Teetering precariously between white disdain, male dismissal, and Black distrust, Harris was tasked with neither being too angry, nor too reactive, nor too...much. Arguably, this also includes being burdened with the restraint of not being too brilliant or dynamic, so as not to upstage the man she was there to represent and support (whom she had also previously trounced on the debate stage).
As noted by several Black women online, this is a dance exclusive to the Black female experience. Kerry Washington rightly noted (in response to a presumable criticism of Harris’ performance by CNN’s Dana Bash, no less) “the mental & emotional gymnastic[s] required of Black women in these situations,” tweeting, “[There’s] not a chance in the world [Kamala Harris] wasn’t thinking about this. We don’t ever NOT think about it. Her superpower?! Making it look easy.”
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To further understand both the nuances at play and Harris’ masterful restraint, one need look no further than Page’s complicity in upholding a white man’s right to speak over both herself and the woman of color on stage, contrasted with her somewhat punitive treatment of Harris for Pence’s rudeness. Page’s passivity echoed the largest failure of white feminism, which, for all its altruism, has unfailingly centered whiteness, first and foremost. (In case you’re wondering, Page says she “felt good about how it went,” reports The Hill.) That Harris should have to reclaim her time from the person tasked with keeping it echoed the ways in which Black feminists have been forced to reimagine and reclaim a liberation movement we helped build.
Advertisement
And so, we must center ourselves. Long after it leaves the news cycle, “I’m speaking” should be more than a meme-able moment. For Black women, it is a rallying cry. Our much-depended-upon participation in this ongoing American project cannot be predicated upon our silence. We are speaking, we are holding our space, and we are entitled to hold you accountable.
Yes, even you, Kamala.


theroot--2020-10-08--An Exclusive Interview With the Fly Who Crashed the Vice Presidential Debate

Perhaps the star of Wednesday night ’ s debate between vice presidential nominee Sen. Kamala Harris ( D-Calif. ) and Vice President Mike Pence was the housefly who managed to evade security and land on Pence ’ s head .
While other outlets interviewed Pence and Harris , The Root managed to score an exclusive interview with the show-stealing housefly .
The Root : Hi , I want to thank you for taking some time to talk to us .
Can we begin by getting your full name , your age and where you ’ re from ?
FLY : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Lumumba Younger from Washington , D.C.
I ’ m 43 .
TR : Wow , you look good for 43 years old .
FLY : Nah , bruh ; I ’ m 43 days old , which is pretty good for a fly .
We only live for 5o days , at most .
But you know what they say : “ Black don ’ t crack.
” That ’ s why they call me DC Young Fly .
TR : Wait ... you know there ’ s a comedian who goes by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ right ?
FLY : Yeah ...
I heard that .
I had beef at first because he ’ s not even from DC .
But then I checked him out on the 85 South Show and he was pretty funny so I decided not to call up my murder hornet homies and tell them to pull up on him .
I don ’ t participate in Black-and-yellow-on-Black crime .
Plus , I like his music .
TR : Wait ... how do you listen to music ?
TR : Makes sense .
Anyway @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the debate ?
And why did you land on Mike Pence ’ s hair and not Kamala Harris ’ ?
FLY : Nigga , are you crazy ?
Do you know what a Black woman will do if you mess up her hair ?
I don ’ t play with my life like that !
Plus , Sen. Harris is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha .
TR : Oh , you were scared she was going to do that head shake thing that AKAs do ?
I can see how that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , that ’ s not it .
I ’ m a member of Alpha Fly Alpha , so I wouldn ’ t bother my sister like that .
It ’ s just a respect thing .
Also , I need to clear something up : That wasn ’ t my first time meeting Mike Pence .
We go way back to when he was governor of Indiana and he refused to prosecute the unjust execution of my cousin .
TR : Oh , I ’ m sorry to hear that .
How did @ @ @ @ @ @ @ when Pence was governor of Indiana and he supported federal funding for gay conversion therapy ?
Well , who do you think they test those experimental treatments on ?
My cousin Martin McFly was detained in a government detention center and used in experiments .
They tried to say he was an undocumented immigrant but he had his flypapers !
These extrajudicial killings disproportionately affect the BIPOC* community .
And , believe me , you don ’ t want to know what they will do to a Spanish fly .
TR : Is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ FLY : Yes !
Someone has to bring up the violence inflicted on my people .
Every time we protest , they call up SWAT teams ; they gas us ; they put us in prisons .
That ’ s why I showed up at the debate .
I wanted Pence to say our names .
TR : So it was a protest ?
FLY : Not exactly .
I ’ m trying to get on the ballot as a third-party candidate .
I want to represent the interests of all insects , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ discuss why Africanized bees are criminalized as “ killer bees.
” These brave men and women just want to do their job and go home .
America is all too willing to enjoy the flowers they pollinate , but as soon as one or two bees sting someone , they want to blame it on all bees .
I ’ m tired of seeing this oppression .
Male bees don ’ t even have stingers !
But every 28 hours , countless unarmed worker bees are slaughtered for no reason .
But they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as my roach brothers .
They are vilified for no reason .
Have you ever heard of anyone being killed by a roach ?
How many roaches have you ever seen carrying a gun or a knife ?
But as soon as we move into a good neighborhood , they start attacking us .
And the same goes for termites , ants , bedbugs , mosquitoes and even spiders .
They call it “ pest control , ” but we know they fear us .
TR : So your platform is just based @ @ @ @ @ @ @ No , there are other issues , too .
We want reparations .
My brothers and sisters in the honeybee community deserve to be compensated for centuries of slavery on honey plantations .
Corporations like Sue Bee and Burt ’ s Bees used our free labor to make billions .
The pharmaceutical industry uses fruit flies to test medicine and the fruit and vegetable industries depend on us for cross-pollination .
They still haven ’ t paid my Uncle Ben for using his likeness for years !
TR : Wait ...
I thought @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you related to the man on the rice package ?
FLY : No , not that Uncle Ben , I ’ m talking about my Uncle Benjamin Buzz , the mascot for Honey Nut Cheerios .
General Mills stopped using his face to sell its product after realizing it was tasteless .
But his family still lives in a one-bedroom honeycomb .
Meanwhile , those entitled bastards who call themselves “ red delicious ” take home millions from Apple Cinnamon Cheerios .
Now , cinnamon is made from tree bark but what would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ strike and stopped pollinating apple trees and oat plants ?
Do you know what they call cinnamon Cheerios without apple flavoring ?
TR : No , what do they call it ?
TR : So you were there to talk about violence and income inequality .
FLY : No , I want to talk about how housing inequality .
You think we just prefer to live behind refrigerators and in literal garbage dumps ?
Most of my homies can ’ t afford to live in nice neighborhoods , so they end up checking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ m not saying the roach motels aren ’ t nice .
I ’ ve never been in one but , for some reason , when roaches check in , they don ’ t check out .
And the education system is trash .
Did you know that 99 percent of all bees and ants drop out of high school ?
That ’ s why so many of us work construction jobs .
You kill us and then you try to be like us .
I ’ m tired of this cultural appropriation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ask Nicki Minaj and 2Chains where they first heard “ Beez in the Trap.
” Who were the Killa Bees before Wu-Tang Clan ?
The Beatles ?
Flea from the Red Hot Chili Peppers ?
You know what they say : “ Everyone wants to be fly but no one wants to be a fly.
” And that ’ s why I wanted to tell Mike Pence how much I admire him and to tell him to his face how much he and Donald Trump inspire me .
FLY : No dummy , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sure , he ’ s a racist , bigoted right-wing liar who killed my cousin but I don ’ t live long enough to hold grudges .
My only goal in life is to do as much for my people as the Trump administration has done for white people .
I ’ ve watched how they handled the coronavirus , the economy and the country a whole .
If he ’ s re-elected , they are right on track to wipe out all the human beings and we will finally get our chance @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Oh , shit ...
Wait ... Don ’ t tell me you ’ re one of those Proud Flys !
You can ’ t stop the alt-mite movement !
We are the true rulers of the ... At this point of the interview , Sen. Kamala Harris entered the room holding a flyswatter .
KH : : Jesus , do I have to do everything around here ?
FLY : What ’ s she doing here ?
And what ’ s that in her hand ?
Wait , is that a flyswatter ?
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ you pay !
FLY : No , Mike Pence—The “ Lord of the Flies !
”

Perhaps the star of Wednesday night’s debate between vice presidential nominee Sen. Kamala Harris (D-Calif.) and Vice President Mike Pence was the housefly who managed to evade security and land on Pence’s head.
While other outlets interviewed Pence and Harris, The Root managed to score an exclusive interview with the show-stealing housefly.
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The Root: Hi, I want to thank you for taking some time to talk to us. Can we begin by getting your full name, your age and where you’re from?
FLY: No problem. My name is Frederick Lumumba Younger from Washington, D.C. I’m 43.
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TR: Wow, you look good for 43 years old.
FLY: Nah, bruh; I’m 43 days old, which is pretty good for a fly. We only live for 5o days, at most. But you know what they say: “Black don’t crack.” That’s why they call me DC Young Fly.
Advertisement
TR: Wait...you know there’s a comedian who goes by the name of DC Young Fly, right?
FLY: Yeah...I heard that. I had beef at first because he’s not even from DC. But then I checked him out on the 85 South Show and he was pretty funny so I decided not to call up my murder hornet homies and tell them to pull up on him. I don’t participate in Black-and-yellow-on-Black crime. Plus, I like his music.
TR: Wait...how do you listen to music?
FLY: Spotifly.
TR: Makes sense. Anyway, why did you decide to come to the debate? And why did you land on Mike Pence’s hair and not Kamala Harris’?
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FLY: Nigga, are you crazy? Do you know what a Black woman will do if you mess up her hair? I don’t play with my life like that! Plus, Sen. Harris is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha.
TR: Oh, you were scared she was going to do that head shake thing that AKAs do? I can see how that could be scary.
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FLY: Nah, that’s not it. I’m a member of Alpha Fly Alpha, so I wouldn’t bother my sister like that. It’s just a respect thing. Also, I need to clear something up:
That wasn’t my first time meeting Mike Pence. We go way back to when he was governor of Indiana and he refused to prosecute the unjust execution of my cousin.
Advertisement
TR: Oh, I’m sorry to hear that. How did your cousin die?
FLY: Remember when Pence was governor of Indiana and he supported federal funding for gay conversion therapy? Well, who do you think they test those experimental treatments on?
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Fruit flies!
My cousin Martin McFly was detained in a government detention center and used in experiments. They tried to say he was an undocumented immigrant but he had his flypapers! These extrajudicial killings disproportionately affect the BIPOC* community. And, believe me, you don’t want to know what they will do to a Spanish fly.
Advertisement
*Bugs, Insects, Pests and Other Cooties.
TR: Is this why you crashed the debate?
FLY: Yes! Someone has to bring up the violence inflicted on my people. Every time we protest, they call up SWAT teams; they gas us; they put us in prisons. That’s why I showed up at the debate. I wanted Pence to say our names.
Advertisement
Black Flies Matter!
TR: So it was a protest?
FLY: Not exactly. I’m trying to get on the ballot as a third-party candidate. I want to represent the interests of all insects, not just flies.
Advertisement
We need to discuss why Africanized bees are criminalized as “killer bees.” These brave men and women just want to do their job and go home. America is all too willing to enjoy the flowers they pollinate, but as soon as one or two bees sting someone, they want to blame it on all bees. I’m tired of seeing this oppression. Male bees don’t even have stingers! But every 28 hours, countless unarmed worker bees are slaughtered for no reason.
But they don’t have it as bad as my roach brothers. They are vilified for no reason. Have you ever heard of anyone being killed by a roach? How many roaches have you ever seen carrying a gun or a knife? But as soon as we move into a good neighborhood, they start attacking us. And the same goes for termites, ants, bedbugs, mosquitoes and even spiders.
Advertisement
They call it “pest control,” but we know they fear us.
TR: So your platform is just based on violence against insects?
FLY: No, there are other issues, too. We want reparations.
My brothers and sisters in the honeybee community deserve to be compensated for centuries of slavery on honey plantations. Corporations like Sue Bee and Burt’s Bees used our free labor to make billions. The pharmaceutical industry uses fruit flies to test medicine and the fruit and vegetable industries depend on us for cross-pollination. They still haven’t paid my Uncle Ben for using his likeness for years!
Advertisement
TR: Wait...I thought this was about insects. How are you related to the man on the rice package?
FLY: No, not that Uncle Ben, I’m talking about my Uncle Benjamin Buzz, the mascot for Honey Nut Cheerios. General Mills stopped using his face to sell its product after realizing it was tasteless. But his family still lives in a one-bedroom honeycomb. Meanwhile, those entitled bastards who call themselves “red delicious” take home millions from Apple Cinnamon Cheerios. Now, cinnamon is made from tree bark but what would they do if my people went on strike and stopped pollinating apple trees and oat plants? Do you know what they call cinnamon Cheerios without apple flavoring?
Advertisement
TR: No, what do they call it?
FLY: “Bankruptcy.”
We matter.
TR: So you were there to talk about violence and income inequality.
FLY: No, I want to talk about how housing inequality. You think we just prefer to live behind refrigerators and in literal garbage dumps? Most of my homies can’t afford to live in nice neighborhoods, so they end up checking into temporary housing. Now, I’m not saying the roach motels aren’t nice. I’ve never been in one but, for some reason, when roaches check in, they don’t check out.
Advertisement
And the education system is trash. Did you know that 99 percent of all bees and ants drop out of high school? That’s why so many of us work construction jobs.
You kill us and then you try to be like us. I’m tired of this cultural appropriation.
Advertisement
TR: Wait, what? Who culturally appropriates insects?
FLY: Ask Peter Parker. Ask Nicki Minaj and 2Chains where they first heard “Beez in the Trap.” Who were the Killa Bees before Wu-Tang Clan? The Beatles? Flea from the Red Hot Chili Peppers?
Advertisement
You know what they say: “Everyone wants to be fly but no one wants to be a fly.”
And that’s why I wanted to tell Mike Pence how much I admire him and to tell him to his face how much he and Donald Trump inspire me.
Advertisement
TR: Wait? I thought you hated Mike Pence?
FLY: No dummy, I don’t hate him. Sure, he’s a racist, bigoted right-wing liar who killed my cousin but I don’t live long enough to hold grudges. My only goal in life is to do as much for my people as the Trump administration has done for white people.
Advertisement
I’ve watched how they handled the coronavirus, the economy and the country a whole. If he’s re-elected, they are right on track to wipe out all the human beings and we will finally get our chance to rule this country!
TR: Oh, shit...Wait...Don’t tell me you’re one of those Proud Flys!
FLY: That’s right, I’m a flight supremacist!
You can’t stop the alt-mite movement! We are the true rulers of the...
At this point of the interview, Sen. Kamala Harris entered the room holding a flyswatter.
Advertisement
KH:: Jesus, do I have to do everything around here?
FLY: What’s she doing here? And what’s that in her hand? Wait, is that a flyswatter? No... Noo...Beelzebub will make you pay!
Advertisement
TR: Trump?
FLY: No, Mike Pence—The “Lord of the Flies!”
Mite power!
KH: (swinging fly swatter): Splat Lives Matter!
Thus concluded our interview.


theroot--2020-10-08--Stock Up On 80 Rolls of Scott Toilet Paper And Do Your Business For Months to Come

For a short time , you can get a case of Scott toilet paper for 50 % off the original @ @ @ @ @ that means you won ’ t run out like back in March when no one @ @ @ @ @ everyone was buying stuff to wipe their asses with .
The case comes with 80 @ @ @ @ @ , and each roll has 550 sheets of 2-ply !
So really , your butt @ @ @ @ @ months to come .
Hopefully , you have a place to put em .
And @ @ @ @ @ wipe your hands , you can grab some matching towels while you ’ re here @

Ignacia on Kinja Deals, shared by Ignacia to The Root

Scott Bulk Toilet Paper | $49 | Amazon
For a short time, you can get a case of Scott toilet paper for 50% off the original list price. Yes, that means you won’t run out like back in March when no one was buying food, but everyone was buying stuff to wipe their asses with. The case comes with 80 rolls for about $49, and each roll has 550 sheets of 2-ply! So really, your butt will be softly caressed for months to come. Hopefully, you have a place to put em.