theroot--2020-12-27--Indiana University Health Responds to Black Doctor's Video of COVID Treatment: Nursing Team 'May Hav

Indiana University Health Responds to Black Doctor's Video of COVID Treatment: Nursing Team 'May Have Been Intimidated'

Dr. Susan Moore died days before Christmas at 52 , after a protracted battle to get racially equitable treatment at Indiana University Health North Hospital ( IU ) , according to videos she posted on social media about her experience .
The head of that hospital system , Dennis Murphy , has since issued a statement in response to Dr. Moore ’ s video that seems to suggest that her last-bid attempt to get attention while laying in a hospital in intense pain , via videos posted on Facebook , was part of the reason why her story played out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ press release from Indiana University Health , Murphy claimed that the nursing staff who cared for Dr. Moore—who she said left her unattended for hours without the pain medication she had to fight to receive—were likely “ intimidated ” by Moore as a patient .
I also saw several human perspectives in the story she told – that of physicians who were trying to manage the care of a complex patient in the midst of a pandemic crisis where the medical evidence on specific treatments continues to be debated in medical journals and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ perspective of a nursing team trying to manage a set of critically ill patients in need of care who may have been intimidated by a knowledgeable patient who was using social media to voice her concerns and critique the care they were delivering .
“ I do not believe that we failed the technical aspects of the delivery of Dr. Moore ’ s care , ” Murphy added .
By labelling Dr. Moore as intimidating , even while she was in a hospital bed , in pain , and breathing through the help @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s head is leaning on a commonly-used trope to shame or otherwise blame Black women for behaving like human beings .
After being diagnosed with coronavirus on November 29 , Dr. Moore began sharing videos on Facebook in which she described a doctor who dismissed her request for medication to assuage the intense pain she was feeling due to the virus .
“ He made me feel like I was a drug addict , and he knew I was a physician , ” said Dr. Moore .
“ I was hurting.
” After @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , leading the doctor to approve her for narcotic treatment , Dr. Moore said she was left in pain for hours without attention from nurses .
When she finally asked the nursing staff about why she wasn ’ t getting any medicine , she said one of them “ went in ” on her ( and even telling for some reason that he marched for Black Lives Matter ) .
Despite laying some of the blame for the lackluster treatment Dr. Moore complained of receiving at his hospital on her own desperate self-advocacy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a “ sentinel moment ” that will propel the IU system ’ s efforts to ensure they are treating all patients equitably .
As a result , Indiana University Health will be launching an internal and external review into her case to “ address any potential treatment bias ” in order to provide for “ material improvements for patients of color , ” Murphy said .
But the implicit bias that was present in that same statement , against the Black woman who was trying her hardest to get the care she deserved @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the likelihood of that process leading to meaningful change .

Dr. Susan Moore died days before Christmas at 52, after a protracted battle to get racially equitable treatment at Indiana University Health North Hospital (IU), according to videos she posted on social media about her experience.
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The head of that hospital system, Dennis Murphy, has since issued a statement in response to Dr. Moore’s video that seems to suggest that her last-bid attempt to get attention while laying in a hospital in intense pain, via videos posted on Facebook, was part of the reason why her story played out the way it did.
In a press release from Indiana University Health, Murphy claimed that the nursing staff who cared for Dr. Moore—who she said left her unattended for hours without the pain medication she had to fight to receive—were likely “intimidated” by Moore as a patient.
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From the release:
I also saw several human perspectives in the story she told – that of physicians who were trying to manage the care of a complex patient in the midst of a pandemic crisis where the medical evidence on specific treatments continues to be debated in medical journals and in the lay press. And the perspective of a nursing team trying to manage a set of critically ill patients in need of care who may have been intimidated by a knowledgeable patient who was using social media to voice her concerns and critique the care they were delivering.
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“I do not believe that we failed the technical aspects of the delivery of Dr. Moore’s care,” Murphy added.
By labelling Dr. Moore as intimidating, even while she was in a hospital bed, in pain, and breathing through the help of oxygen tubes, the hospital’s head is leaning on a commonly-used trope to shame or otherwise blame Black women for behaving like human beings.
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After being diagnosed with coronavirus on November 29, Dr. Moore began sharing videos on Facebook in which she described a doctor who dismissed her request for medication to assuage the intense pain she was feeling due to the virus.
“He made me feel like I was a drug addict, and he knew I was a physician,” said Dr. Moore. “I was hurting.”
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After CT tests showed she had pulmonary infiltrates, leading the doctor to approve her for narcotic treatment, Dr. Moore said she was left in pain for hours without attention from nurses. When she finally asked the nursing staff about why she wasn’t getting any medicine, she said one of them “went in” on her (and even telling for some reason that he marched for Black Lives Matter).
Despite laying some of the blame for the lackluster treatment Dr. Moore complained of receiving at his hospital on her own desperate self-advocacy, Murphy also described her video as a “sentinel moment” that will propel the IU system’s efforts to ensure they are treating all patients equitably.
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As a result, Indiana University Health will be launching an internal and external review into her case to “address any potential treatment bias” in order to provide for “material improvements for patients of color,” Murphy said. But the implicit bias that was present in that same statement, against the Black woman who was trying her hardest to get the care she deserved, makes it hard to believe in the likelihood of that process leading to meaningful change.


theroot--2020-12-29--Police and Federal Officers Investigating Fire at Black Church in Massachusetts

Local police along with the FBI and the Bureau of Alcohol , Tobacco , Firearms and Explosives ( ATF ) are investigating a fire at a Black church in Springfield , Massachusetts .
According to NBC News , Martin Luther King Jr. Community Presbyterian Church caught fire during the early hours of Monday morning .
Firefighters responded to a call around 5 a.m. , and it took them nearly an hour to extinguish the fire .
Springfield Fire Commissioner Bernard Calvi told NBC News the fire was “ highly suspicious ” as “ there ’ s been three other fires @ @ @ @ @ @ @ three weeks.
” Officials are currently investigating the premises to ensure that there wasn ’ t an accidental cause for the fire .
According to WWLP , firefighters did not see anyone around or inside the church at the time of their arrival .
It was said that the fire was so damaging that it rendered the church “ unusable.
” This is even more heartbreaking due to the fact that the congregation recently replaced the roof after staging a successful fundraising campaign .
Ronn Johnson of Martin Luther King , Jr. Family @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been the site of multiple instances of vandalism in recent weeks , including an incident where some cardboard had been set ablaze .
While this is awful and I feel for the congregants , I ’ m just happy no one was actually hurt as a result of the fire .
Springfield p olice and the FBI are currently searching the area for any leads .
The FBI has joined the investigation as the sheer fact it was a Black church set on fire in the middle of the night means this could @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has also joined the investigation along with the Massachusetts State Police Arson and Bomb Squad .
I ’ m just saying it now : it ’ s going to be real sus if four law enforcement agencies can ’ t figure out who set this church on fire .
The church was founded over 40 years ago , and Reverend Dr. Terrlyn L. Curry Avery currently oversees the approximately 50-person congregation .
Should you live in the area and have any information on who set the church on fire you are encouraged to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ If your info leads to a suspect you may get a $ 5,000 reward .
I know Cam ’ ron instilled some very strong opinions about snitching , but the way I see it , you could feel like a hero and be $ 5,000 richer .

Local police along with the FBI and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) are investigating a fire at a Black church in Springfield, Massachusetts.
According to NBC News, Martin Luther King Jr. Community Presbyterian Church caught fire during the early hours of Monday morning. Firefighters responded to a call around 5 a.m., and it took them nearly an hour to extinguish the fire. Springfield Fire Commissioner Bernard Calvi told NBC News the fire was “highly suspicious” as “there’s been three other fires in this general area in the last three weeks.”
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Officials are currently investigating the premises to ensure that there wasn’t an accidental cause for the fire. According to WWLP, firefighters did not see anyone around or inside the church at the time of their arrival. It was said that the fire was so damaging that it rendered the church “unusable.” This is even more heartbreaking due to the fact that the congregation recently replaced the roof after staging a successful fundraising campaign.
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Ronn Johnson of Martin Luther King, Jr. Family Services told WWLP that the church has been the site of multiple instances of vandalism in recent weeks, including an incident where some cardboard had been set ablaze. While this is awful and I feel for the congregants, I’m just happy no one was actually hurt as a result of the fire.
Springfield p olice and the FBI are currently searching the area for any leads. The FBI has joined the investigation as the sheer fact it was a Black church set on fire in the middle of the night means this could be a hate crime. The ATF has also joined the investigation along with the Massachusetts State Police Arson and Bomb Squad.
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I’m just saying it now: it’s going to be real sus if four law enforcement agencies can’t figure out who set this church on fire.
The church was founded over 40 years ago, and Reverend Dr. Terrlyn L. Curry Avery currently oversees the approximately 50-person congregation. Should you live in the area and have any information on who set the church on fire you are encouraged to call the arson hotline at 800-682-9229. If your info leads to a suspect you may get a $5,000 reward. I know Cam’ron instilled some very strong opinions about snitching, but the way I see it, you could feel like a hero and be $5,000 richer.


theroot--2020-12-28--H&M Is Sending You Back to School or Work in Style—and on the Cheap!

The best H & M online sales for January 2021 are here .
H & M ( or Hennes & Mauritz ) is definitely a crowd favorite among those wanting absolute style , comfort , and affordable pricing .
The Swedish retailer cover fast-fashions for men , women , teenagers , and kid .
Hard to believe they opened their first US store over 20 years ago right in NYC .
H & M is the second-largest global clothing retailer and has carved out a significant space for itself online .
The cross-section of offerings is wide across a ton @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pleasures currently being offering in their world-renowned online store .
Have you been stuck in quarantine for so long that you ’ re late to buying a winter coat ?
No worries .
H & M is offering over 50 % off on this short cotton parka .
With elastic at the cuffs and a drawstring at the hem , this jacket will keep you looking slim and feeling warm simultaneously .
It even has a detachable faux fur trim in case you ’ re looking to be a bit more subtle for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ owns this and it looks so elegant and sexy .
She ’ s worn it with jeans to dinner and even to work with her blazer over it .
Its loose-fitting satin looks brilliant with a ton of outfits honestly .
The lace is the perfect synthesis of chic and sensuous .
Bomber jackets are as classic as they come .
I had a vintage fit ages ago and it was coveted .
This one is a little more modern and a lot less expensive .
It ’ s lined and made from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at the cuffs and hem give it that retro flair .
It ’ s water repellent and comes in black and army green .
My friends regard leggings as one of the best value items at H & M .
These look great under everything : shorts , a skirt , a long sweater .
They ’ re high waisted and made of a stretch jersey material .
Designed with the least amount of seams in mind for comfort , these leggings appear perfectly smooth under anything .
They ’ re currently buy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with cotton fabric , this button-down shirt is light and fits slightly large to create room for movement .
This shirt also has a yoke at the back with a locker loop for your storage preferences .
Act fast before it ’ s taken off H & M ’ s men ’ s sale !
Have you watched one too many Timothée Chalamet movies this Christmas ?
Are you feeling the sad boy aesthetic ?
Look no further than this wool cardigan .
This item is made from lambswool to keep you warm @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with .
It ’ s currently available in black and grey .
Personally , I love seeing kids rock styles that are popular for adults , such as white leather sneakers .
These high tops were manufactured with faux leather for an initial affordable price point and are now part of H & M ’ s kids ’ sale .
And if you ’ re ordering them online , know that these shoes run true to size .
Cotton basics are the very best of this company .
The value on their basics @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pack of cotton tees is great under anything , to sleep in , to crop , or to put under a cute sundress for a ‘ 90s ensemble .
These slim-fit t-shirts in black and white are one of H & M ’ s best sellers too .
Soft and fluffy , this v-neck sweater is cozy but sleek with ribbing at the neckline , cuffs , and hem .
This piece is true to size and can be paired with anything from a leather skirt to a pair of jeans .
We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pink polo because this item is not just for listening sessions of Kanye West ’ s albums .
This polo is true to size with a slim fit and crafted with cotton and elastane .
This deal was originally published by Sheilah Villari on 08/23/2020 and updated by Juliana Clark on 12/28/2020 .

Sheilah Villari and Juliana Clark on Roundups, shared by Gabe Carey to The Root

Featured Deal: Student Discount 15% Off
The best H&M online sales for August 2021 are here.
H&M (or Hennes & Mauritz) is definitely a crowd favorite among those wanting absolute style, comfort, and affordable pricing. The Swedish retailer cover fast-fashions for men, women, teenagers, and kid. Hard to believe they opened their first US store over 20 years ago right in NYC. H&M is the second-largest global clothing retailer and has carved out a significant space for itself online.
The cross-section of offerings is wide across a ton of categories. Here are some crowd pleasures currently being offering in their world-renowned online store.
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Are you on the struggle bus of being a full-time student and living on a budget? We’ve all been there! H&M is rewarding you for dedicating yourself to your studies by offering students a 15% discount by verifying your status with UNiDAYS.
Note that this discount cannot be combined with any other offers, and it cannot be used on gift card purchases or shipping.
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Climate change doesn’t look like it’s slowing down any time soon. So, try investing in this calf-length linen-blend dress. It’s narrow with adjustable shoulder straps that gather at the upper edge with a covered elastic band at the back. It’s bad from linen and an organic cotton blend with a pattern of hand-painted wildflowers. The print design was developed by Kavita, Abigail, Holly, and Florentin, who picked their favorite wildflowers and recreated them in watercolor.
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We’re here bringing you the short-sleeved pink polo because this item is not just for listening sessions of Kanye West’s albums. This polo is true to size and comes with a ribbed collar and button placket.
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My friends regard leggings as one of the best value items at H&M. These look great under everything: shorts, a skirt, a long sweater. They’re high-waisted and made of stretch jersey material. Designed with the least amount of seams in mind for comfort, these leggings appear perfectly smooth under anything.
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A boxy sweater really is a great style staple. Think about it. You can layer it with a long-sleeve shirt for the fall. Or you can wear it alone for the summer months. This beautiful option comes in three beautiful colors, but turquoise is honestly my personal fave.
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Everyone needs a smart-looking belt for when they go back to the office. This narrow black belt has a stylish gold buckle, which can be paired with jeans or a smart dress. I mean, why not cash in on a versatile accessory such as this?
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Get ready for the summer by packing on a 2-pack of Slim Fit Chino Shorts. This product comes in a khaki color and a blue and white palm tree pattern. It’s made from 100% cotton and has a regular waist rise.
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Show off your summer body with the Patterned Muscle Fit T-shirt. This garment is made from a soft cotton jersey with ribbing at the neckline. The narrow shoulders and tapered silhouette will make your physique look banging.
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A-line denim skirts are a great staple to have in your closet, and this one is no exception. The fit is a little smaller than true to size and comes in nine other washes. So get your boho shirt on, and do your best Maren Morris!
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Want to spend the last days of summer looking fine? Then, this bodycon dress is for you! Wear it with a pair of mary janes or a trucker vest. Look ladylike or edgy. The choice is yours!
This story was originally published by Sheilah Villari on 08/23/2020 and updated with new information by Juliana Clark on 08/19/2021.


theroot--2020-12-29--Michelle Obama Purchases Artwork for Barack From Talented Buffalo Artist and Exoneree Valentino Dixo

Michelle Obama Purchases Artwork for Barack From Talented Buffalo Artist and Exoneree Valentino Dixon

Valentino Dixon has a lot to be grateful for these days .
Not only did he finally get his freedom back in 2018 after wrongfully serving 27 years for a crime he didn ’ t commit , but thanks to a recent HBO special recounting his life ’ s story , the gifted golf artist now has some new fans—the Obamas .
Per Cleveland ’ s WKYC Studios 3 , after viewing the aforementioned special , former first lady Michelle Obama reached out to Dixon to see about purchasing one of his paintings of a golf course for her husband @ @ @ @ @ @ @ guy who just wrote a book about A Promised Land . )
“ She ’ s not too big to reach out to somebody on my level , who is really nobody in comparison [ to her ] , so that ’ s just a great feeling , ” Dixon said .
But referring to Dixon as a “ nobody ” would be a clear and immense understatement .
According to his official website , Dixon was wrongfully convicted for the murder of Torriano Jackson at a nightclub in Buffalo , N.Y. in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pressure from the NYPD to convict ( even though the real shooter had already confessed just two days after the incident ) .
He was consequently sentenced to 38 years-to-life in prison at Attica Correctional Facility .
But it was during his time in prison that Dixon was able to tap into a skill he ’ d once had a passion for : creating art .
And it ’ s that art , particularly that of the 12th hole at the legendary Augusta National Golf Club , that would ultimately help him in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ More from his official website : At one point , the warden at Attica Correctional Facility asked Valentino to draw the 12th hole of the legendary Augusta National Golf Club .
Valentino , who had never set foot on a golf course and knew nothing about the sport , starting drawing images inspired by photos in the magazine Golf Digest .
Eventually , Valentino even drew his own golf creations and said that golf art became his escape from the harsh reality of prison .
In 2012 , Golf Digest editorial director Max @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in his “ golf saved my my life ” column .
Adler also researched Valentino ’ s case , and came to the conclusion that Valentino was truly innocent of the murder for which he had been wrongfully convicted .
The next year , The Golf Channel ran a segment about Valentino ’ s case as well , gaining him — and his artistic talent — national attention .
It would be six years later that Dixon finally obtained his freedom , due largely in part to three college students at Georgetown University @ @ @ @ @ @ @ All the while , Dixon has continued to perfect his craft .
And now that same painting he once did inside of a jail cell in Attica , N.Y. , will be hanging inside the home of the 44th President of the United States .
“ The drawing is going to be sitting in Barack ’ s office , that alone is enough for me , ” Dixon expressed to WKYC Studios 3 .
Adding in a video accompanying the painting to the former president : “ I hope that you love your @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and the family can come draw and talk with me .
”

Valentino Dixon has a lot to be grateful for these days.
Not only did he finally get his freedom back in 2018 after wrongfully serving 27 years for a crime he didn’t commit, but thanks to a recent HBO special recounting his life’s story, the gifted golf artist now has some new fans—the Obamas.
Per Cleveland’s WKYC Studios 3, after viewing the aforementioned special, former first lady Michelle Obama reached out to Dixon to see about purchasing one of his paintings of a golf course for her husband. (You know, that one guy who just wrote a book about A Promised Land.) “She’s not too big to reach out to somebody on my level, who is really nobody in comparison [to her], so that’s just a great feeling,” Dixon said.
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But referring to Dixon as a “nobody” would be a clear and immense understatement.
According to his official website, Dixon was wrongfully convicted for the murder of Torriano Jackson at a nightclub in Buffalo, N.Y. in 1991 based off shaky witness testimony and pressure from the NYPD to convict (even though the real shooter had already confessed just two days after the incident) . He was consequently sentenced to 38 years-to-life in prison at Attica Correctional Facility. But it was during his time in prison that Dixon was able to tap into a skill he’d once had a passion for: creating art. And it’s that art, particularly that of the 12th hole at the legendary Augusta National Golf Club, that would ultimately help him in his quest for justice and freedom.
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More from his official website:
At one point, the warden at Attica Correctional Facility asked Valentino to draw the 12th hole of the legendary Augusta National Golf Club. Valentino, who had never set foot on a golf course and knew nothing about the sport, starting drawing images inspired by photos in the magazine Golf Digest. Eventually, Valentino even drew his own golf creations and said that golf art became his escape from the harsh reality of prison. In 2012, Golf Digest editorial director Max Adler featured Valentino and his stunning artwork in his “golf saved my my life” column. Adler also researched Valentino’s case, and came to the conclusion that Valentino was truly innocent of the murder for which he had been wrongfully convicted. The next year, The Golf Channel ran a segment about Valentino’s case as well, gaining him — and his artistic talent — national attention.
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It would be six years later that Dixon finally obtained his freedom, due largely in part to three college students at Georgetown University who decided to reinvestigate his case. All the while, Dixon has continued to perfect his craft. And now that same painting he once did inside of a jail cell in Attica, N.Y., will be hanging inside the home of the 44th President of the United States.
“The drawing is going to be sitting in Barack’s office, that alone is enough for me,” Dixon expressed to WKYC Studios 3. Adding in a video accompanying the painting to the former president: “I hope that you love your gift, and maybe one day you and the family can come draw and talk with me.”


theroot--2020-12-28--These Unique Beauty Sets Will Keep You Looking Flawless Through 2021

Beauty bundles can be a hard thing to buy if you don ’ t already know exactly what you love .
Gift sets typically mix together top sellers and new discovery items , tend to be pretty easy on the wallet , and are often beautifully put together for the season .
The sets assembled in this list are not what you ’ ll normally see and will score you big points with a glamor guru .
Protecting the hair and body in one set is the dream .
We all hope for perfect hair and skin and while that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ least we can try .
Drunk Elephant is a great brand that tends to be more expensive , so to nab a comprehensive kit like this for under $ 50 is a steal .
Keep your tresses shiny and skin supple .
Radiate into the new year since 2020 's been so dull .
The miniatures in this collection are Cocomino glossing shampoo , Cocomino Marula cream conditioner , TLC Happi scalp scrub , Wild Marula tangle spray , Kamili cream body cleaner , Sili body lotion , and Sweet Pitti deodorant cream @ @ @ @ @ @ @ shimmer , they ’ re also adorably designed .
If one company knows about beautiful complexions , it ’ s Dermalogica .
This set is for those folks whose fussy skin needs something a little gentler .
Give your face the calming , soothing love it deserves and protect it against further irritation .
This trio will help quell triggers and restore some balance with protective products including the UltraCalming cleanser , UltraCalming mist , and Calm water gel moisturizer .
Murad You Do You Set | $ 16 Cleansing , exfoliating , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ skincare , in that order .
Just doing those three things will make a world of difference .
Keep your skin in tip-top shape for the rest of the winter with this exclusive set from Murad .
As the name suggests , this duo will leave your face smooth and dewy .
Remember that everything from Dr. Murad is science-backed goodness for beautiful skin .
I ’ m a huge fan of Dr. Hauschka , having used several of its products over the years to much satisfaction .
This discovery box set is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the brand without a huge commitment .
Another one for glowing skin , this set will aid in creating a daily ritual , as your face becomes healthier and happier when you have a routine .
This kit contains three of Hauschka ’ s best sellers and you ’ ll quickly understand why .
A facial toner , the soothing cleansing milk , and the rose day cream ( a personal fave ) are all included in the box , all of which are made with a natural and luxurious formula .
Now @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the gents .
I ’ m a big fan of mini scent bundles like this , especially if the brand normally leans on the pricey side .
The Murdock London cologne collection brings four mini fragrances , perfect for life on the go .
You ’ ll find Avalon ( cool and breezy ) , Black Tea ( spicy and woody ) , Patchouli ( calming and retro ) , and Vetiver ( adventurous and outdoorsy ) , making this another great way to uncover a new smell you might end up digging @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
I try to include it in roundups as much as possible because , in short , it ’ s the real deal .
With so much hand washing going on this year , you ’ ve probably found your skin a bit cracked .
Suffice to say , trying to keep everything as germ-free as possible has been stressful , but it doesn ’ t have to be .
This set from the French skincare experts has fragrance-free hand sanitizer and Cicaplast hand cream that ’ ll prevent dried out hands with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s a limited set , it still comes much needed , even at the tail end of 2020 .
A perfume box for the ladies , Rosie Jane ’ s 7-day detox fragrance set is designed to help you find new smells for every day life and even layer and mix them .
When you read the names of the scents , you ’ ll understand how most of these easily mesh together .
Your aromas are as follows Leila Lou ( pear , jasmine , and fresh-cut grass ) , Madie @ @ @ @ @ @ @ vanilla ) , James ( fig , gardenia , and amber ) , Angie ( honeysuckle , jasmine , and fig ) , Lake ( vanilla , sandalwood , and neroli ) , Dylan ( cedar , frankincense ad white musk ) and Rosie ( nude musk and rose ) .
Treat your olfactory senses to a deluge of delight .
We ’ ve all had long nights this year , staying awake with a multitude of stressors .
A bad night ’ s sleep can read all over your face , specifically @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a little boost , you can ’ t go wrong with a few Flashpatches .
Place whichever variant you need under your eyes and take some me time to zone out .
Look a little more rested in mere minutes with these rejuvenating , restoring , and illuminating eye gels .
Fight puffiness , dark circles , and fine lines for an excellent addition to your nightly rotation .
This pack from Patchology packs two pairs each of the Rejuvenating , Illuminating , and Restoring Night eye gels , and best of all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the whole shabang .
I love when companies put together boxes like this .
It ’ s like a best of beauty compilation , and this prestige set from Dermstore actually is the best .
In it , you ’ ll get twelve top-rated products—three full-size and nine deluxe—curated by skincare experts , another valuable opportunity to try new brands .
Plenty of reputable brands are highlighted in this bundle—Sunday Riley , Boscia , Elemis , and Peter Thomas Roth to name a few .
You ’ ll even get a cute cosmetic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ This collection usually costs $ 50 , so at $ 12 less you might as well take a chance and grab one for everyone on your list .
All true divas know you have to be camera-ready at all times , and this essential bundle from Fenty will keep you prepared .
Treat yourself to an Invisimatte blotting powder , blotting paper , and portable touch up brush , gracing your face with the illusion of the perfect filter , no camera required .
In all seriousness , blotting paper is life-changing and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
We ’ ve all been in that moment of panic when what we thought was a phone call turns out to be a videoconference , leading to a mad dash to look presentable .
Never have that fear again , courtesy of the lovely team at Undone .
Get ready in minutes with this best-selling bundle of minimalist essentials , comprising a lip balm , a water bronzer , and a lip to cheek palette to pick your color preference for .
Just choose any shade from three of its top items @ @ @

Sheilah Villari on The Inventory, shared by Gabe Carey to The Root

Beauty products can be hard to buy if you don’t already know exactly what you want. Gift sets typically mix together top sellers and new items to sample. They also tend to be pretty easy on the wallet, and are often tastefully packaged for the season. The sets assembled in this list will score you big points with a glamor guru.
This one is a personal fave. Who knew Selena Gomez could do makeup well too?! The mini Lip Soufflé Matte Lip Cream is this set is actually one of the best colors (bright red) I have in my collection and glides on smoothly. I got a discovery kit when this line first dropped last year, and I still keep the Perfect Strokes Mascara in one of my makeup bags. Big voluminous lashes in mere seconds. This set also has a Soft Pinch Liquid Blush (dewy peach), a great way to add a little color, and no pro artist experience needed. The Positive Light Liquid Luminizer (rose bronze) adds a sweet sparkle to top off even the most minimal of looks. This is a must for any busy beauty babe.
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Youth to the People is a viral brand for a reason. Their Minimalist Kit is a crown jewel for the company and encompasses a three-step skincare routine. It has everything you need to properly remove daily grim, keep pores clear, brighten, and firm up your face. Maintain a healthy glow all while building a strong barrier of moisture to protect every inch. It’s simple; with less, you can accomplish more. Cleanse, brighten, and hydrate.
I will always keep Bésame on these lists. I have almost every lipstick, and they are absolutely the best long-lasting ones I’ve ever had. You don’t need to be into vintage fashion to appreciate the shades, but you can admire the historical research and craft that goes into each product. For the holidays, these seven sets are marked down to just $26. The matching lip and nail sets cover an array of decades and shades. Each has brilliant color to make you feel like a glamorous starlet from another era. My favorite is 1952's Wild Orchid, a vibrant violet with a little shimmer. These hues are all sure to turn heads.
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7 Different Shades Holiday Lip & Nail Sets Get glamorous, salon quality nails at home in a range of colors you already love.
The brilliant color and long lasting performance of Bésame lipsticks is now available in a luxury polish! Buy for $26 at Bésame
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Protecting the hair and body in one set is the dream. We all hope for perfect hair and skin, and while that might not be 100% obtainable, at least we can try. Drunk Elephant is a great brand that tends to be more expensive, so to nab a comprehensive kit like this for under $50 is a steal. Keep your tresses shiny and skin supple. Radiate into the new year since 2021's been so dull. The miniatures in this collection are Cocomino glossing shampoo, Cocomino Marula cream conditioner, TLC Happi scalp scrub, Wild Marula tangle spray, Kamili cream body cleaner, Sili body lotion, and Sweet Pitti deodorant cream. Not only will they help you shimmer, they’re also adorably designed.
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In travel-friendly sizes, the Small Wonders Set is four clean, skincare bestsellers ready to get you prepped for the new year. Not one but two mascaras to help your peepers pop, a glossy lip oil to leave your lips smooth and nourished, and an overnight treatment to rejuvenation your pucker while you sleep. It comes in a beautiful box covered in original artwork inspired by the movement of light and shadow across a painted desert. This is a gentle reminder to spread light and joy this season.
Limited Edition Small Wonders Set Wrapped in custom artwork inspired by the play of sun and shadow.
Four clean, skincare-powered bestsellers in travel-ready mini sizes. Buy for $29 at Ilia Beauty
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If one company knows about beautiful complexions, it’s Dermalogica. This set is for those folks whose fussy skin needs something a little gentler. Give your face the calming, soothing love it deserves and protect it against further irritation. This trio will help quell triggers and restore some balance with protective products, including the UltraCalming cleanser, UltraCalming mist, and Calm water gel moisturizer.
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If you’ve never tried or even heard of Kopari I can say they’re pretty quality. Kopari’s got a bundle of their best sellers to help you try a few of their offerings to see which is best for you. For just $86 you’ll receive their top 4 items. I got to try the Coconut Exfoliant Crush Scrub in a sample box and have to say it’s a great exfoliator for winter, it left my face and arms super smooth. The coconut scent isn’t overwhelming either. You’ll also get the Hydrating Shower Oil Body Wash for a fresh island clean. The Organic Coconut Melt is great for a multitude of things beyond just moisturizing. I’ve seen a few of these on the market and this one can be used in hair, under the eyes, even to help soothe chapped skin which is great for the cold weather. Lastly is Coconut Deo. This one is awesome for folks with sensitive skin looking for a deodorant that will protect the underarms and Kopari uses coconut and sage to do just that.
fan favorites Best Sellers Bundle The ultimate clean routine!
Getting squeaky clean from head to pits to toes with 100% organic coconut. Buy for $69 at Kopari
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Cleansing, exfoliating, and hydrating are the tenants of good skincare—in that order. Just doing those three things will make a world of difference. Keep your skin in tip-top shape for the rest of the winter with this exclusive set from Murad. As the name suggests, this duo will leave your face smooth and dewy. Remember that everything from Dr. Murad is science-backed goodness for beautiful skin.
Best Seller You Dew You Set Clinically proven products!
Helps open up hydration pathways so the moisturizer can deliver maximum results. Buy for $62 at Murad
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If you’ve never heard of Kosas, you are in for a treat. Kosas is one of the best clean beauty companies for a reason, every product I’ve tried from them over the years has been quality, and this Clean Start Set has a few of those items. The ‘Everyday MVPs’ is your new lifesaver for unexpected video chats. A little lip gloss and mascara and revive a face in seconds. Throw your hair in a cute messy bun and get voluminous lashes with the Big Clean Mascara in seconds. Add the Wet Lip Oil in this shiny nude/pink tint and instantly look a little more put together with minimum effort. And if it is a particularly stressful call, slap on the Serene Clean deodorant. Don’t worry because this is formulated without aluminum and baking soda. It’s also 100% stain-free. An ever-present purse product is the LipFuel Lip Balm. It hydrates even the dryest pout instantly and helps it look soft and luscious. Start your day with this set or use it as an afternoon touch-up. No matter when you use these, you will fall in love with Kosa. I guarantee you’ll be purchasing more soon.
Bestsellers! The Clean Start Set: Everyday MVPs Super clean. Comfy makeup. Active skincare.
Everyday essentials packed with nourishing ingredients that feel good and bring real benefits. Buy for $29 at Kosa
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Now here’s a little something for the gents. I’m a big fan of mini scent bundles like this, especially if the brand normally leans on the pricey side. The Murdock London cologne collection brings four mini fragrances, perfect for life on the go. You’ll find Avalon (cool and breezy), Black Tea (spicy and woody), Patchouli (calming and retro), and Vetiver (adventurous and outdoorsy), making this another great way to uncover a new smell you might end up digging.
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La Roche-Posay is the literal best. I try to include it in roundups as much as possible because, in short, it’s the real deal. Now that we a plunged into the early sunsets and cold days, extra skin protection is needed. This three-step system is just what you want. The Toleriane Hydrating Cleanser will help remove makeup, dirt, and impurities but won’t strip any natural hydration already in your pores. It only takes a few drops of Hyaluronic Acid in the morning and at night to keep a dry flakey face or neck at bay. Plus, it works perfectly with a tinted moisturizer or foundation. Add the Double Repair Facial Moisturizer with SPF 30 to protect you from the winter sun that can still cause damage. These French skincare experts developed this set for all skin types to provide all-day hydration.
Best Seller Dry Skin Routine Set Oil-free facial moisturizer with SP!
Gentle cream formula helps restore skin comfort and retains essential moisture. Buy for $55 at La Roche-Posay
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Versed’s Skin De-Srestting Set is a limited-edition box full of staples to keep skin calm and happy throughout the holidays. The secret to “de-stressed” skin and a tension-free face is the coveted Facial Acupressure Wand. A few targeted presses with this wand will alleviate puffiness and leave you refreshed. It is naturally cooling but it is designed to appropriately massage pressure spots. Combine it with the Clarifying Serum to clean pores, regulate oil, and prevent breakouts. Next add the Moisturizing Gel-Cream to lock in moisture, soothe skin, and reduce inflammation. This ultra-relaxing kit is the perfect gift for any busy pal.
Limited-edition trio Skin De-Stressing Set Pop it in the fridge for some extra chill.
Take a deep breath and hit each facial pressure point for ultimate relaxation. Buy for $16 at Versed Use the promo code GIFTSET20
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A perfume box for the ladies, Rosie Jane’s 7-day detox fragrance set is designed to help you find new smells for everyday life and even layer and mix them. When you read the names of the scents, you’ll understand how most of these easily mesh together. Your aromas are as follows Leila Lou (pear, jasmine, and fresh-cut grass), Madie (sea spray, jasmine, and vanilla), James (fig, gardenia, and amber), Angie (honeysuckle, jasmine, and fig), Lake (vanilla, sandalwood, and neroli), Dylan (cedar, frankincense ad white musk), and Rosie (nude musk and rose). Treat your olfactory senses to a deluge of delight.
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This set is fantastic. It just turned up on my doorstep, and I was blown away by just how much was included. SkinStore’s Holiday Edit Box is for your favorite skincare lover. They selected some of my favorite brands and the best products to include this year. Wander Beauty’s Baggage Claim Gold Eye Masks are a necessity for long hauls of winter travel. Elemis’ Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm is one of the greatest makeup removers I have on my shelf. There are altogether 12 items from full sizes to travel sizes to take on the road with you. This package will save you before, and after any holiday event you have to attend. I was blown away by how much it was able to get in here. Light up Nest Fragrances’ Bamboo Mini Votive candle and try to wrap your head around only paying $150 for a box that should be well over $500.
Over a $500 Value! Holiday Edit Box 2021 Top brands and skin care products for a glowing end of the year.
There are altogether 12 items from full sizes to travel sizes to take on the road with you. Buy for $150 at SkinStore
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Sunday Riley is one of those brands that when there is a deal you get your hands on it. Morning Buzz Brightening Duo can make a huge difference during this busy holiday season. Having a product on deck that can give you a brightening boost and down plan a few late nights is a must. This set includes some best-sellers: a Vitamin C serum and an eye cream. The serum tackles discolorations to balance out a fussy complexion. The eye cream controls puffiness and dark circles. Plus, adding a Vitamin C serum to your routine can jump-start your fight against the early signs of aging. Tighten, lift, and illuminate in just two steps.
Best Seller Sunday Riley Morning Buzz Brightening Duo Instant brightening look for the eye area!
The duo includes the brand’s well-known vitamin C serum and eye cream. Buy for $98 at Dermstore
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All true divas know you have to be camera-ready at all times, and this essential bundle from Fenty will keep you prepared. Treat yourself to an Invisimatte blotting powder, blotting paper, and portable touch-up brush, gracing your face with the illusion of the perfect filter, no camera required. In all seriousness, blotting paper is life-changing, and you should have it with you always.
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I stan Tula. I’m a big fan of their Rose Glow Cooling Eye Balm. This kit is an excellent way to find your product to obsess over. All the essentials are here for a basic skincare set: Purifying Face Cleanser, Resurfacing Toner, Hydrating Day & Night Cream, and an Illuminating Serum. I like the Hello Radiance Serum as a quick solution for tired skin. It all comes in a cute travel bag ready for you to fall in love with.
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Nothing is more high fashion or classic than Chanel if you’ve got your heart set on a luxury item. I’m specifically speaking about N°5. The signature scent is undeniably sophisticated, as you might expect. I have a bottle on my nightstand, and it is coveted. This set has the iconic bottle and a refillable “twist and spray” to conveniently freshen up wherever you travel. N°5 was the world’s first abstract fragrance, so it can come off a bit more complex, and it isn’t for everyone. But for me, its beauty is in its complexity. Hints of rose, jasmine, citrus, and bourbon vanilla work in harmony for a sensual aroma. This is a pricey set, but you will win over whomever you gift it to.
Iconic fragance N°5 Twist & Spray Set The Eau de Parfum draws inspiration from the Parfum.
Use the full-size bottle for everyday scenting and the Twist and Spray wherever you are. Buy fir $175 at Chanel
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Winter can be an absolute menace to hands and feet. And if you are like me and are a bit squeamish about manicures and pedicures this At-Home Space Set from Glytone is the answer. Without proper moisture in the cold months, skin can become rough and heels can crack, especially if they are trapped in snow boots for a few hours. Both of these products are great for first-time glycolic acid users. The hand and heel cream helps soothe and soften those spots tormented by chilly weather. Keep elbows and knees protected too. Use the peeling gel to revitalize and protect your face from the elements as well, all in the comfort of your own home.
Perfect Winter gift At-Home Spa Set A powerful formula that works instantly to retexturize and smooth skin.
Pamper skin from head-to-toe with high concentrations of glycolic acid. Buy for $100 at Glytone
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Getting your hair back in order for the new year is a great idea. I love this journey for you. We all want strong and healthy locks in 2022. Klorane is meant for just that. The Detox Aquatic Mint Routine purifies each strand and tingles the scalp with plant-based ingredients. If you spend a lot of time outside, especially in a big city, this shampoo/conditioner combo will help cleanse it of any air pollution that’s soaked in. Most users say they see a difference after just one use but most see the best results after about two weeks, either way, this is an excellent set for troubled tresses. There’s also a Detox Dry Shampoo that’ll keep everything in tip-top shape in between suds sessions.
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No one is immune to a blemish here and there. And they always seem to happen when an important life event is on the horizon. I highly recommend keeping a kit like this on deck for just those occasions. Peace Out Skincare’s Daily Heroes Kit has everything to save the day. This little bag houses the brand’s most popular acne-fighting products. Bust breakouts in no time with the top-rated Acne Dots, Blemish Balm, Acne Serum, and Repairing Moisturizer. Each of these works to remove excess oil and impurities without drying out or making the situation worse.
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This Hourglass Essentials Set is another great sampling of cosmetics from a great company. It’s also a really good purchase for having everything you need in a makeup touch-up bag. The staples for Hourglass are their best sellers. Start with the lightweight and long-lasting Veil Mineral Primer. Add a little golden pink color to your cheeks with the Ambient Lighting Blush. Use the Caution Extreme Mascara for dramatic long full lashes. And bring it all together with their creamy, pink, long-wearing Confession Lipstick.
Save $20 Essentials Set An exclusive selection of Hourglass' best sellers.
This high-impact set features everything you need to create a flawless look. Buy for $75 at Hourglass Cosmetics
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Merit deserves every bit of praise and this Favorites bundle will surely be yours too. I’ve got the No. 1 Brush in my collection after an Allure piece on it and it absolutely lives up to the hype. The difference between your skin and your foundation will be indistinguishable. Speaking of you’ll pick your shade for the Complexion Stick, which is also a great concealer for uneven spots. There are eight shades to choose from for the tinted lip oil, you’ll definitely get a hint of color as well as all-day moisture from the shea butter. Give your cheeks a dab of the Flush Balm to blend in (five hues to select from) and you’re ready to roll.


theroot--2020-12-28--Atlanta Exxon Owner Plans to Sell Gas Station After Months of Anti-Racism Protests. Black Protest Or

Atlanta Exxon Owner Plans to Sell Gas Station After Months of Anti-Racism Protests. Black Protest Organizer Wants to Buy It

It looks like the owner of an Exxon gas station in Atlanta is finding out the hard way that being racist while owning a store in a largely Black neighborhood is a recipe for all sorts of problems .
After suffering more than two months of accusations of racism and anti-racism demonstrations , the store owner has decided to sell his place of business , and if that isn ’ t enough to get the pro-Black activist in you gloating against anti-Black tears , the Black man who helped organize the protests is now on a mission to buy the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ non-stop demonstrations outside the Exxon gas station off Flat Shoals Rd , organizer Joe Jones is pleased that the owner is planning to sell .
“ We sent a clear message that we will no longer tolerate disrespect , ” Jones said .
Protests started in mid-October after a clerk at the store was caught on camera saying , “ I don ’ t give a [ expletive ] about the Black neighborhood.
” The store ’ s owner , Rahim Sivji , apologized and parted ways with the clerk .
However , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to claims of racism and abusive behavior customers reportedly experienced over the years .
“ We have to understand our power , the power of dollar , the power of Black economics and we have to be intentional with our spending , ” Jones said .
“ It is a privilege to get Black dollars.
” Sivji reportedly apologized for his clerk ’ s racism , but it ’ s Sivji himself who has been accused of referring to a Black patron as a “ food stamp cockroach ” and another as a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an earlier CBS report .
Of course , Sivji characterized the constant protesting of Black people who don ’ t want racists making money off of them as “ harassment ” and complained to CBS 4 that protesters “ tried to put me out of business.
” “ It got to the point where I ’ m thinking if I have to save my life or my store , I say the hell with my store , I want to save my life , ” he said—despite the fact that there are no @ @ @ @ @ @ @ violent .
“ That ’ s what ’ s important to me.
” Sivji said the protests have cost him between 70 and 80 percent of his revenue .
Meanwhile , Jones is looking to turn anti-Black disrespect into Black ownership opportunity by starting a GoFundMe page in an effort to purchase the store once it is sold .
“ This was an effective boycott that led to tangible results , ” Jones said .
“ This is the perfect opportunity to take this situation and try to promote a situation of Black @ @ @

It looks like the owner of an Exxon gas station in Atlanta is finding out the hard way that being racist while owning a store in a largely Black neighborhood is a recipe for all sorts of problems.
After suffering more than two months of accusations of racism and anti-racism demonstrations, the store owner has decided to sell his place of business, and if that isn’t enough to get the pro-Black activist in you gloating against anti-Black tears, the Black man who helped organize the protests is now on a mission to buy the gas station.
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From CBS 46:
Following 66 days of non-stop demonstrations outside the Exxon gas station off Flat Shoals Rd, organizer Joe Jones is pleased that the owner is planning to sell. “We sent a clear message that we will no longer tolerate disrespect,” Jones said. Protests started in mid-October after a clerk at the store was caught on camera saying, “I don’t give a [expletive] about the Black neighborhood.” The store’s owner, Rahim Sivji, apologized and parted ways with the clerk. However, Jones said they continued to protest due to claims of racism and abusive behavior customers reportedly experienced over the years. “We have to understand our power, the power of dollar, the power of Black economics and we have to be intentional with our spending,” Jones said. “It is a privilege to get Black dollars.”
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Sivji reportedly apologized for his clerk’s racism, but it’s Sivji himself who has been accused of referring to a Black patron as a “food stamp cockroach” and another as a “begging monkey,” according to an earlier CBS report.
Of course, Sivji characterized the constant protesting of Black people who don’t want racists making money off of them as “harassment” and complained to CBS 4 that protesters “tried to put me out of business.”
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“It got to the point where I’m thinking if I have to save my life or my store, I say the hell with my store, I want to save my life,” he said—despite the fact that there are no reports of protests against his store turning violent. “That’s what’s important to me.” Sivji said the protests have cost him between 70 and 80 percent of his revenue.
Meanwhile, Jones is looking to turn anti-Black disrespect into Black ownership opportunity by starting a GoFundMe page in an effort to purchase the store once it is sold.
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“This was an effective boycott that led to tangible results,” Jones said. “This is the perfect opportunity to take this situation and try to promote a situation of Black ownership.”


theroot--2020-12-28--The 4 Games That Got Me Through 2020

The 4 Games That Got Me Through 2020

Upon reflection , I can safely say that 2020 is the worst year of my life .
Unlike prior contenders for the worst year of my life , I couldn ’ t mitigate the bad shit by making fun memories with my friends .
This year was mostly spent alone , in front of a screen , trying my best to navigate multiple internal and external crises .
My apologies for opening with such a downer , but come on now .
You lived through this year ; you know how hard this shit has been .
I know for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lot harder if I didn ’ t have my good old reliable anti-drug : weed .
Also , video games .
This time of year is usually filled with best and worst of lists but this has been anything but a usual year .
This list isn ’ t structured by which game I loved most or any arbitrary ranking system .
It ’ s simply the games that helped me get through what has been the perpetual shit show that has been 2020 .
So enough preamble , let ’ s talk @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to give a big shout out to Animal Crossing : New Horizons for holding it down during the early days of the pandemic .
Shit was scary , we didn ’ t know how long this was going to last ( remember thinking we ’ d be through the worst of it by June ? )
, and we all just needed some small slice of comfort .
I know for myself and a lot of folks , New Horizons was that comfort .
It ’ s a game built around routine and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we all had our routines completely shattered .
It was fun trading tips , recipes , and fruit with the homies .
Visiting the islands my friends built is honestly the closest I ’ ve come to going over to any of the houses in the last nine months .
While I don ’ t return to my island as frequently as I did over the spring and summer , I can not deny that Animal Crossing was a balm during my time spent with it .
Call of Duty : Warzone may @ @ @ @ @ @ @ year simply because it provided a place for me and my friends to hang out in a year where we couldn ’ t physically do so .
We all got into this game by sheer chance , to be honest .
It was one of the few games with crossplay capabilities we were all interested in , and it was free-to-play , which meant that even if we didn ’ t dig it , there was very little risk in trying it out .
We ’ ve been trying to get my friend @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a decade now .
Lo and behold , all it took was a pandemic , Call of Duty , and being furloughed from his job to get him to pick up the sticks .
( He has a job now , don ’ t worry . )
Not only did he pick up the game , he got good at it , becoming one of our star players .
Warzone is one of my favorites this year in large part because it got one of my friends into gaming and it helped keep @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our matches are spent seriously pursuing a W , but oftentime we ’ re just cracking jokes , giving each other life updates , and using the game more as a social space than anything else .
When I began to shed involuntary tears at Final Fantasy VII : Remake ’ s incredible recreation of the intro cutscene from Final Fantasy VII I knew I was in trouble .
I can ’ t lie , I went into this game with an incredible amount of apprehension .
I knew there was going to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ battle system , and the fact that they were making a 40-hour game out of the first section of Final Fantasy VII was just bizarre to me .
Yet , upon booting up the game I could instantly feel the love that the creative team had for this world .
The battle system finally feels like Tetsuya Nomura fulfilling his long-held desire of making RPG action look like this .
The story changes aren ’ t egregious and it feels like an adaptation of Final Fantasy VII more than a remake , which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more interesting games in recent memory .
( If you have three hours , Tim Rogers does a great job breaking down the strange space Final Fantasy VII : Remake occupies as a video game . )
This was a flat-out thrill and was probably the most fun I had playing a game this year .
Beyond the nostalgia pop , the simple feeling of exploring this incredibly built world was a joy .
Every second of it , even the goofier shit , just feels cool .
We didn ’ t really @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Fantasy VII : Remake ably filled that role for me .
The action is great , the humor is silly , and when the plot beats hit , they hit .
Ghost of Tsushima is basically just an Assassin ’ s Creed game wrapped in a samurai package .
You could also boil down Batman : Arkham City to that description , but that doesn ’ t make it any less of a banger .
Ghost of Tsushima is on my list for two reasons .
The first is that it just , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ game is beautiful .
The fictional island of Tsushima is brought to vivid life and just makes you feel like you ’ re starring in your own samurai movie .
Getting into a duel with another samurai as the wind rips through a field of chrysanthemums is just inherently dope .
I found protagonist Jin Sakai ’ s struggle to honor the code he was raised on while doing what needs to be done to save his home compelling .
The combat and stealth mechanics feel like a throwback to Onimusha and Tenchu @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a kid .
The more personal reason for the game being on this list is that it was the game that got me through the hardest part of my year .
Summer was , to put it bluntly , fucking rough .
My personal life was in shambles , everything I had planned for my future kind of fell apart , I was feeling creatively unmotivated , and all of this was happening while I was still in the early months of being full-time at The Root .
It was a lot to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the lowest I felt this year .
It sounds dumb , but having a world I could escape in while everything else was on fire was such a needed respite .
Games have always been there when I needed them , they ’ ve been an essential part of my self-care process for as long as I can remember .
When I needed it most , I had Ghost of Tsushima .
There were no themes or ideas in it that resonated with my current situation , it was just a good ass @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all you really need .
On a personal level , I ’ m feeling more like myself again which is nice .
I ’ m hoping that this time next year that A ) I ’ m still employed here and B ) I can talk about video games just being good as fuck and not how they got me through one of the most traumatic periods of my adult life .
While this year was pure basura , I ’ m hoping 2021 winds up being at least moderately better for everyone @ @ @ @ @ @ @ good games to boot .
So to ring in the new year , wear that mask , wash those hands , and play as many damn video games as your heart desires .
You made it through 2020 , you earned it .

Upon reflection, I can safely say that 2020 is the worst year of my life. Unlike prior contenders for the worst year of my life, I couldn’t mitigate the bad shit by making fun memories with my friends. This year was mostly spent alone, in front of a screen, trying my best to navigate multiple internal and external crises.
So yeah, not terribly fun.
My apologies for opening with such a downer, but come on now. You lived through this year; you know how hard this shit has been. I know for me it would’ve been a lot harder if I didn’t have my good old reliable anti-drug: weed. Also, video games.
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This time of year is usually filled with best and worst of lists but this has been anything but a usual year. This list isn’t structured by which game I loved most or any arbitrary ranking system. It’s simply the games that helped me get through what has been the perpetual shit show that has been 2020.
So enough preamble, let’s talk about some video games.
Animal Crossing: New Horizons
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I have to give a big shout out to Animal Crossing: New Horizons for holding it down during the early days of the pandemic. Shit was scary, we didn’t know how long this was going to last (remember thinking we’d be through the worst of it by June?), and we all just needed some small slice of comfort. I know for myself and a lot of folks, New Horizons was that comfort. It’s a game built around routine and normality, which was much needed as we all had our routines completely shattered.
It was fun trading tips, recipes, and fruit with the homies. Visiting the islands my friends built is honestly the closest I’ve come to going over to any of the houses in the last nine months. While I don’t return to my island as frequently as I did over the spring and summer, I cannot deny that Animal Crossing was a balm during my time spent with it.
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Call of Duty: Warzone
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Call of Duty: Warzone may very well be my game of the year simply because it provided a place for me and my friends to hang out in a year where we couldn’t physically do so. We all got into this game by sheer chance, to be honest. It was one of the few games with crossplay capabilities we were all interested in, and it was free-to-play, which meant that even if we didn’t dig it, there was very little risk in trying it out.
We’ve been trying to get my friend Andy to play video games for almost a decade now. Lo and behold, all it took was a pandemic, Call of Duty, and being furloughed from his job to get him to pick up the sticks. (He has a job now, don’t worry.) Not only did he pick up the game, he got good at it, becoming one of our star players.
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Warzone is one of my favorites this year in large part because it got one of my friends into gaming and it helped keep us close. A good chunk of our matches are spent seriously pursuing a W, but oftentime we’re just cracking jokes, giving each other life updates, and using the game more as a social space than anything else.
Final Fantasy VII: Remake
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When I began to shed involuntary tears at Final Fantasy VII: Remake’s incredible recreation of the intro cutscene from Final Fantasy VII I knew I was in trouble. I can’t lie, I went into this game with an incredible amount of apprehension. I knew there was going to be tweaks to the story, the battle system, and the fact that they were making a 40-hour game out of the first section of Final Fantasy VII was just bizarre to me.
Yet, upon booting up the game I could instantly feel the love that the creative team had for this world. The battle system finally feels like Tetsuya Nomura fulfilling his long-held desire of making RPG action look like this. The story changes aren’t egregious and it feels like an adaptation of Final Fantasy VII more than a remake, which just further makes it one of the more interesting games in recent memory. (If you have three hours, Tim Rogers does a great job breaking down the strange space Final Fantasy VII: Remake occupies as a video game.)
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This was a flat-out thrill and was probably the most fun I had playing a game this year. Beyond the nostalgia pop, the simple feeling of exploring this incredibly built world was a joy. Every second of it, even the goofier shit, just feels cool. We didn’t really get summer blockbusters this year but Final Fantasy VII: Remake ably filled that role for me. The action is great, the humor is silly, and when the plot beats hit, they hit.
Ghost of Tsushima
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Ghost of Tsushima is basically just an Assassin’s Creed game wrapped in a samurai package. You could also boil down Batman: Arkham City to that description, but that doesn’t make it any less of a banger. Ghost of Tsushima is on my list for two reasons. The first is that it just, fucking, bangs. Graphically, this game is beautiful. The fictional island of Tsushima is brought to vivid life and just makes you feel like you’re starring in your own samurai movie. Getting into a duel with another samurai as the wind rips through a field of chrysanthemums is just inherently dope. I found protagonist Jin Sakai’s struggle to honor the code he was raised on while doing what needs to be done to save his home compelling. The combat and stealth mechanics feel like a throwback to Onimusha and Tenchu, games I fucked with heavy as a kid.
The more personal reason for the game being on this list is that it was the game that got me through the hardest part of my year. Summer was, to put it bluntly, fucking rough. My personal life was in shambles, everything I had planned for my future kind of fell apart, I was feeling creatively unmotivated, and all of this was happening while I was still in the early months of being full-time at The Root. It was a lot to process all at once and it was the lowest I felt this year. It sounds dumb, but having a world I could escape in while everything else was on fire was such a needed respite.
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Games have always been there when I needed them, they’ve been an essential part of my self-care process for as long as I can remember. When I needed it most, I had Ghost of Tsushima. There were no themes or ideas in it that resonated with my current situation, it was just a good ass game. Sometimes, that’s all you really need.
On a personal level, I’m feeling more like myself again which is nice. I’m hoping that this time next year that A) I’m still employed here and B) I can talk about video games just being good as fuck and not how they got me through one of the most traumatic periods of my adult life. While this year was pure basura, I’m hoping 2021 winds up being at least moderately better for everyone and that there are a litany of good games to boot.
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So to ring in the new year, wear that mask, wash those hands, and play as many damn video games as your heart desires. You made it through 2020, you earned it.


theroot--2020-12-28--The 10 Best Deals of December 28, 2020

The 10 Best Deals of December 28, 2020

It ’ s December 28 , and we at Kinja Deals are here to bring you the top 10 deals of the day .
Quell your anxiety with a Sleep Philosophy weighted blanket .
Work on your dental health with the Waterpik cordless water flosser .
And start 2021 with a relaxing Dr. Teal ’ s Wellness Therapy Epsom salt bath .
If you ’ re still craving more deals , take a peek at Monday ’ s best deals overall .
This year has been pretty stressful but the good news is it ’ s almost over .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ t look any better .
If like most people you ’ ve been pretty anxious this year small comforts have meant the world .
A weighted blanket might be a cozy solution to a stressful problem .
Take $ 72 off of Sleep Philosophy ’ s Weighted Blanket for the next week .
The super-soft blanket is plush on one side and a snuggly berber on the other .
This size is the smaller of the bunch from the company but still sixty inches long and fifty inches wide .
It weighs in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ five colors .
The weight is evenly distributed to give the illusion of a light comforting hug .
This will help make sleep deeper , longer , and more restful .
The glass beads in the middle are OEKO-TEX certified which means they aren ’ t harmful and contain no chemicals .
Spot clean if it gets dirty .
Don ’ t let blanket season pass you by without the best rest you can have .
This will ship for free and the deal runs until January 3 .
This deal was originally @ @ @ @ @ @ @ joked in my Colgate Hum review over the summer , I haven ’ t always been as disciplined as I should be when it comes to my teeth .
In fact , if I ’ m being honest , I neglected to floss regularly until a few weeks ago when I found out I ’ ll need grafting surgery due to gum recession .
Don ’ t make the same mistake I did .
While analog dental floss or floss picks will do the trick for most people , my dentist recommended investing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ since I have a metal permanent retainer affixed to my bottom teeth , which makes it difficult to eliminate the food-derived bacteria that often gets stuck in there .
The Waterpik WF-02W011 , a cordless battery-operated water flosser is one of the most affordable options when it ’ s on sale , as it is now for just $ 26 .
By combining water pressure with pulsations , Waterpik ’ s flosser is able to reach those spots you can ’ t access with a toothbrush—or , in my case , even regular @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also easier to use than traditional string floss , removing up to 99.9 % of plaque at the press of a button .
Just make sure to pick up some rechargeable batteries while you ’ re at it .
Although the Waterpik does include a trio of AAs , replacing the non-rechargeable cells is sure to add up over time .
Otherwise , a water flosser is a good , practical use of your Christmas cash .
This deal was originally published by Gabe Carey .
After decades of providing the software backbone @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Microsoft finally got into the laptop hardware game a few years back .
And the Surface Laptop line is compelling indeed , with some DNA carried over from the Surface tablet line along with additional unique details , including a soft , fuzzy , Alcantara material lining the inside around the keyboard for a luxurious feel .
Today only , Woot is taking $ 350 off of the base 128GB model of the Surface Laptop 2 , which has an Intel Core i5 processor , 8GB RAM , and 13.5 ” touchscreen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ last-gen model , as the Surface Laptop 3 is newer , but that ’ s still $ 650 for a very capable notebook .
I ’ ve personally used this model and loved the look and feel of it , although it is pretty limited on ports .
If you need more space , you can bump up to a 256GB version for $ 700 , or snag a version with a more powerful Intel Core i7 processor and 256GB storage for $ 820 .
These laptops are all new versions , but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ keyboard that includes some French symbols alongside the full array of English keys .
This deal was originally published by Andrew Hayward .
The holidays are a great time to pick up a new phone .
There ’ s deals aplenty , and with such a vast range of smartphones to pick from , you won ’ t have too much trouble finding something that ’ ll get the job done .
If you want a speedy phone with impressive features that won ’ t break the bank , OnePlus ’ s 7T @ @ @ @ @ @ @ right now at B & H Photo , bringing it down to $ 300 .
The 7T comes with 128GB of storage , 8GB of RAM , a 6.5 '' 2400 x 1080 OLED display , and an octacore processor .
The back also houses a three-camera array featuring 12 , 16 , and 48 megapixel lenses .
Some caveats : while you can get the phone for a full 50 % off , that variant is tied to T-Mobile ’ s network , but the fully unlocked GSM version is still $ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ d only be spending $ 50 more to use it on another network like AT & T .
This deal was originally published by Jordan McMahon .
Many laptops these days sacrifice extensive ports in the favor of being as thin and light as possible , which has its obvious benefits and drawbacks .
That ’ s great for easy portability , but can sometimes be a drag when you need to plug in a device or if you want to make your laptop the center of a more robust home office @ @ @ @ @ @ @ USB-C hubs available , but Vava ’ s 12-in-1 Docking Station is one of the most port-packed options we ’ ve seen at an affordable price .
Simply plug it into a USB-C port and you ’ ll add two USB 3.0 ports , two USB 2.0 ports , a USB-C PD port , SD and microSD card readers , an Ethernet port , a 3.5mm headphone jack , DC in port , and two HDMI ports .
Those HDMI ports enable dual-monitor 4K/60fps action with compatible laptops , letting you turn your @ @ @ @ @ @ @ home PC .
The Vava 12-in-1 Docking Station usually runs $ 100 , but right now when you clip the Amazon coupon and input the exclusive promo code KINJA1228 , you ’ ll drop it down to just $ 66 .
If you need a more robust hub like this , it ’ s a bargain .
This deal was originally published by Andrew Hayward .
Here ’ s my humble opinion no one asked for : the GameCube controller is still the best layout for Super Smash Bros. Sure , the Switch @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in recent years , but the old GameCube layout just feels custom-built for the fighting game .
If you ’ re an elitist like me , then you might be interested in this PowerA party pack , which features three GameCube style controllers for $ 70 .
These are third-party controllers , but they have some advantages over Nintendo ’ s standard GameCube controllers .
These Switch-compatible suckers are wireless , feature additional buttons , and even add an extra bumper .
They basically have all the buttons you ’ d find on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ classic GameCube style , just like mom used to make .
This deal was originally published by Giovanni Colantonio .
I ’ m a huge fan of Dr. Teal ’ s .
Over the years this brand has helped with bumps and bruises from sports and calmed my mind and body from hectic days .
2020 was a year that required a lot of self-care and it ain ’ t over yet .
Let Dr. Teal ’ s ease you into the next year with some very soothing bath items .
Grab any @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 10 right now .
There are twenty-one things to choose from to aid a myriad of issues .
If like me winter is a tough time for old injuries hot baths are probably on the menu as a way to bring comfort to some of that pain .
The Wellness Therapy Epsom Salt is just that .
The rosemary and mint smell awesome while your achy muscles get some tension relief .
This formula also helps give tired skin a boost leaving it soft and smooth after a good soak .
This is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ packages to keep in your bathroom arsenal .
Next , I ’ d like to recommend the Sleep Bath .
This foaming bubble bath is infused with melatonin and lavender and chamomile essential oils making it the most relaxing experience possible .
Bring the spa into your own house and chill out before bed .
Plus your skin will be getting softer all while preparing your mind for a perfect night ’ s sleep .
This deal was originally published by Sheilah Villari .
Destiny 2 is a sprawling sci-fi epic loaded with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ There ’ s so much going on at any given time that it ’ s hard to keep much of it straight , even for series diehards .
I ’ ve been playing the series since 2014 and even I ’ m still not sure about certain things .
What was Omnigul ’ s whole deal again ?
Can we go over what the Traveler actually is again ?
Literally what happened during the first game ’ s campaign ?
If you ’ re in the same boat , Amazon currently has two @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on sole .
You can grab Volume II for $ 17 or Volume III for $ 21 .
Consider it some light winter reading in between Crucible matches .
This deal was originally published by Giovanni Colantonio .
Over the summer , I got into a minor car accident in my own neighborhood .
On the way back from visiting my sister in Baltimore , a grocery courier backed into the hood of my car as I was driving around looking for a parking spot .
He ’ d passed the building where @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and in a rush to finish up his last order of the night , reversed right into my car without checking his mirrors first .
Although I was lucky enough to have my wife in the car as a witness ( not to mention there are cameras everywhere in Manhattan ) , my mind would ’ ve been completely at ease had I owned a dash cam at the time .
Among your options is the Anker Roav A1 1080p dash cam , which just so happens to be on sale at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the coupon on the page .
With 4.5 stars on Amazon out of over 2,700 reviews , it sounds like a safe bet , even if I haven ’ t personally used this model myself .
Complete with a Sony sensor featuring “ Nighthawk Vision , ” emergency recording , and built-in Wi-Fi , you don ’ t have to be a rocket scientist to send videos to your phone or share evidence with your insurance company to prove you ’ re not the one at fault .
Equip your car with a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gets slammed by a FreshDirect driver in the middle of the night .
This deal was originally published by Gabe Carey .
By now , most die-hard Star Wars fans have likely made it through the second batch of episodes of The Mandalorian on Disney+ .
I am not one of those people .
It took me over a year to make it through the first season , but at long last , I ’ m finally on episode 3 of season 2 , and it ’ s a doozy .
While Baby @ @ @ @ @ @ @ worn off yet , his innocence is beginning to erode , to say the least .
I ’ m not going to spoil it for anyone who isn ’ t caught up , though I will say “ the Child ” gets his fair share of protein in episode 2 , and now you can indulge in your own next to this adorable Mandalorian-themed tumbler full of coffee , now discounted 50 % from its $ 17 list price from Tervis .
Sure , the holidays are almost over , but this decorative @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lasting you through at least the end of February before you tuck it away in storage for next year .
Choose between the standard 12 oz .
option or bump the size to 24. oz for only $ 2 more in this limited-time offer you can ’ t pass up .
I mean , come on , it ’ s Baby Yoda—look at him !
If you couldn ’ t give a Hutt ’ s ass about Grogu , other designs are also on sale , including some inspired by Dr. Seuss ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s Peanuts comics .
This deal was originally published by Gabe Carey .

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

Monday’s Best Deals | Kinja Deals
It’s December 28, and we at Kinja Deals are here to bring you the top 10 deals of the day. Quell your anxiety with a Sleep Philosophy weighted blanket. Work on your dental health with the Waterpik cordless water flosser. And start 2021 with a relaxing Dr. Teal’s Wellness Therapy Epsom salt bath.
If you’re still craving more deals, take a peek at Monday’s best deals overall.
#1: sleep philosophy weighted blanket
This year has been pretty stressful but the good news is it’s almost over. The bad news is it currently doesn’t look any better. If like most people you’ve been pretty anxious this year small comforts have meant the world. A weighted blanket might be a cozy solution to a stressful problem. Take $72 off of Sleep Philosophy’s Weighted Blanket for the next week.
The super-soft blanket is plush on one side and a snuggly berber on the other. This size is the smaller of the bunch from the company but still sixty inches long and fifty inches wide. It weighs in at almost eleven pounds and comes in five colors. The weight is evenly distributed to give the illusion of a light comforting hug. This will help make sleep deeper, longer, and more restful. The glass beads in the middle are OEKO-TEX certified which means they aren’t harmful and contain no chemicals. Spot clean if it gets dirty. Don’t let blanket season pass you by without the best rest you can have.
This will ship for free and the deal runs until January 3.
This deal was originally published by Sheilah Villari.
#2: waterpik cordless flosser
As I joked in my Colgate Hum review over the summer, I haven’t always been as disciplined as I should be when it comes to my teeth. In fact, if I’m being honest, I neglected to floss regularly until a few weeks ago when I found out I’ll need grafting surgery due to gum recession. Don’t make the same mistake I did. While analog dental floss or floss picks will do the trick for most people, my dentist recommended investing in an electric water flosser, especially since I have a metal permanent retainer affixed to my bottom teeth, which makes it difficult to eliminate the food-derived bacteria that often gets stuck in there.
The Waterpik WF-02W011, a cordless battery-operated water flosser is one of the most affordable options when it’s on sale, as it is now for just $26. By combining water pressure with pulsations, Waterpik’s flosser is able to reach those spots you can’t access with a toothbrush—or, in my case, even regular old dental floss. It’s also easier to use than traditional string floss, removing up to 99.9% of plaque at the press of a button. Just make sure to pick up some rechargeable batteries while you’re at it. Although the Waterpik does include a trio of AAs, replacing the non-rechargeable cells is sure to add up over time. Otherwise, a water flosser is a good, practical use of your Christmas cash.
This deal was originally published by Gabe Carey.
#3: Surface laptop 2
After decades of providing the software backbone for nearly everyone else’s computers, Microsoft finally got into the laptop hardware game a few years back. And the Surface Laptop line is compelling indeed, with some DNA carried over from the Surface tablet line along with additional unique details, including a soft, fuzzy, Alcantara material lining the inside around the keyboard for a luxurious feel.
Today only, Woot is taking $350 off of the base 128GB model of the Surface Laptop 2, which has an Intel Core i5 processor, 8GB RAM, and 13.5” touchscreen. Granted, this is now the last-gen model, as the Surface Laptop 3 is newer, but that’s still $650 for a very capable notebook. I’ve personally used this model and loved the look and feel of it, although it is pretty limited on ports.
If you need more space, you can bump up to a 256GB version for $700, or snag a version with a more powerful Intel Core i7 processor and 256GB storage for $820. These laptops are all new versions, but note that they come with an international keyboard that includes some French symbols alongside the full array of English keys.
This deal was originally published by Andrew Hayward.
#4: Oneplus 7T
The holidays are a great time to pick up a new phone. There’s deals aplenty, and with such a vast range of smartphones to pick from, you won’t have too much trouble finding something that’ll get the job done. If you want a speedy phone with impressive features that won’t break the bank, OnePlus’s 7T from last year is 50% off right now at B&H Photo, bringing it down to $300.
The 7T comes with 128GB of storage, 8GB of RAM, a 6.5" 2400 x 1080 OLED display, and an octacore processor. The back also houses a three-camera array featuring 12, 16, and 48 megapixel lenses.
Some caveats: while you can get the phone for a full 50% off, that variant is tied to T-Mobile’s network, but the fully unlocked GSM version is still $250 off right now, so you’d only be spending $50 more to use it on another network like AT&T.
This deal was originally published by Jordan McMahon.
#5: Vava 12-port docking station
Many laptops these days sacrifice extensive ports in the favor of being as thin and light as possible, which has its obvious benefits and drawbacks. That’s great for easy portability, but can sometimes be a drag when you need to plug in a device or if you want to make your laptop the center of a more robust home office setup.
There are all sorts of USB-C hubs available, but Vava’s 12-in-1 Docking Station is one of the most port-packed options we’ve seen at an affordable price. Simply plug it into a USB-C port and you’ll add two USB 3.0 ports, two USB 2.0 ports, a USB-C PD port, SD and microSD card readers, an Ethernet port, a 3.5mm headphone jack, DC in port, and two HDMI ports. Those HDMI ports enable dual-monitor 4K/60fps action with compatible laptops, letting you turn your slim notebook into a beast of a home PC.
The Vava 12-in-1 Docking Station usually runs $100, but right now when you clip the Amazon coupon and input the exclusive promo code KINJA1228, you’ll drop it down to just $66. If you need a more robust hub like this, it’s a bargain.
This deal was originally published by Andrew Hayward.
#6: Gamecube controller 3-pack
Here’s my humble opinion no one asked for: the GameCube controller is still the best layout for Super Smash Bros. Sure, the Switch Pro Controller has really bridged the gap in recent years, but the old GameCube layout just feels custom-built for the fighting game. If you’re an elitist like me, then you might be interested in this PowerA party pack, which features three GameCube style controllers for $70. These are third-party controllers, but they have some advantages over Nintendo’s standard GameCube controllers. These Switch-compatible suckers are wireless, feature additional buttons, and even add an extra bumper. They basically have all the buttons you’d find on a Pro controller, but retaining that classic GameCube style, just like mom used to make.
This deal was originally published by Giovanni Colantonio.
#7: dR. Teal sale
I’m a huge fan of Dr. Teal’s. Over the years this brand has helped with bumps and bruises from sports and calmed my mind and body from hectic days. 2020 was a year that required a lot of self-care and it ain’t over yet. Let Dr. Teal’s ease you into the next year with some very soothing bath items. Grab any two from the line for just $10 right now. There are twenty-one things to choose from to aid a myriad of issues.
If like me winter is a tough time for old injuries hot baths are probably on the menu as a way to bring comfort to some of that pain. The Wellness Therapy Epsom Salt is just that. The rosemary and mint smell awesome while your achy muscles get some tension relief. This formula also helps give tired skin a boost leaving it soft and smooth after a good soak. This is one of the most refreshing and useful packages to keep in your bathroom arsenal.
Next, I’d like to recommend the Sleep Bath. This foaming bubble bath is infused with melatonin and lavender and chamomile essential oils making it the most relaxing experience possible. Bring the spa into your own house and chill out before bed. Plus your skin will be getting softer all while preparing your mind for a perfect night’s sleep.
Free shipping on orders over $35.
This deal was originally published by Sheilah Villari.
#8: Destiny Grimoire Anthology
Destiny 2 is a sprawling sci-fi epic loaded with dense world-building at a universal scale. There’s so much going on at any given time that it’s hard to keep much of it straight, even for series diehards. I’ve been playing the series since 2014 and even I’m still not sure about certain things. What was Omnigul’s whole deal again? Can we go over what the Traveler actually is again? Literally what happened during the first game’s campaign? If you’re in the same boat, Amazon currently has two volumes of Destiny’s Grimoire Anthology on sole. You can grab Volume II for $17 or Volume III for $21. Consider it some light winter reading in between Crucible matches.
This deal was originally published by Giovanni Colantonio.
#9: anker roav dash cam
Over the summer, I got into a minor car accident in my own neighborhood. On the way back from visiting my sister in Baltimore, a grocery courier backed into the hood of my car as I was driving around looking for a parking spot. He’d passed the building where he needed to drop off his delivery, and in a rush to finish up his last order of the night, reversed right into my car without checking his mirrors first. Although I was lucky enough to have my wife in the car as a witness (not to mention there are cameras everywhere in Manhattan), my mind would’ve been completely at ease had I owned a dash cam at the time.
Among your options is the Anker Roav A1 1080p dash cam, which just so happens to be on sale at a $14 discount when you clip the coupon on the page. With 4.5 stars on Amazon out of over 2,700 reviews, it sounds like a safe bet, even if I haven’t personally used this model myself. Complete with a Sony sensor featuring “Nighthawk Vision,” emergency recording, and built-in Wi-Fi, you don’t have to be a rocket scientist to send videos to your phone or share evidence with your insurance company to prove you’re not the one at fault. Equip your car with a cam and worry not when your car gets slammed by a FreshDirect driver in the middle of the night.
This deal was originally published by Gabe Carey.
#10: Baby yoda travel mug
By now, most die-hard Star Wars fans have likely made it through the second batch of episodes of The Mandalorian on Disney+. I am not one of those people. It took me over a year to make it through the first season, but at long last, I’m finally on episode 3 of season 2, and it’s a doozy. While Baby Yoda’s cuteness hasn’t worn off yet, his innocence is beginning to erode, to say the least. I’m not going to spoil it for anyone who isn’t caught up, though I will say “the Child” gets his fair share of protein in episode 2, and now you can indulge in your own next to this adorable Mandalorian-themed tumbler full of coffee, now discounted 50% from its $17 list price from Tervis.
Sure, the holidays are almost over, but this decorative mug is more winter than Christmas, lasting you through at least the end of February before you tuck it away in storage for next year. Choose between the standard 12 oz. option or bump the size to 24. oz for only $2 more in this limited-time offer you can’t pass up. I mean, come on, it’s Baby Yoda—look at him! If you couldn’t give a Hutt’s ass about Grogu, other designs are also on sale, including some inspired by Dr. Seuss’ The Grinch and Charles M. Schulz’s Peanuts comics.
This deal was originally published by Gabe Carey.