theroot--2020-12-14--AirPods, MacBooks, and iPads (Oh My!): Today’s Best Apple Deals

The best Apple deals and discounts of December 2020 are here .
If you ’ re an Apple fan , then you know that the company ’ s popular iPhones , iPads , MacBooks , Apple Watch , and AirPods don ’ t come cheap—and sales can be sporadic .
Luckily , we watch Apple bargains like a hawk here at Kinja Deals , and we ’ re always keeping an eye out for the best deals across all Apple devices .
Scope out some great prices on AirPods Pro , the Apple Watch SE and Series 6 , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we ’ ll be updating this roundup regularly .
Apple ’ s higher-end wireless earbuds are currently $ 50 off the list price at Amazon , although it looks like they won ’ t arrive until after Christmas .
The AirPods Pro come with noise canceling , silicone tips for a comfortable fit , and a wirelessly-chargeable case , making them a solid upgrade over the standard versions .
Apple ’ s standard current-model AirPods are marked down to $ 110 right now for the standard version with wired charging , with the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s $ 49 off .
They don ’ t have the active noise cancellation or silicone tips of the AirPods Pro , but they deliver great sound and excellent convenience .
You ’ ll get an even larger discount on the brand new core iPad , which is already marked down $ 30 soon after its release .
Unlike the redesigned iPad Air , this entry-level iPad still looks the same as the old one , but it has a faster A12 Bionic chip inside ( comparable to iPhone XS ) .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ for $ 299 in Gold .
You can also save $ 34 on the 128GB edition in Silver .
The new Apple Watch SE is the best option for most prospective buyers , carrying the most important core features of the pricier Apple Watch Series 6 with just a smidge less power and a $ 120 savings .
Right now , you can get the Apple Watch SE for even less at Amazon , where both the 40mm and 44mm sizes are marked down .
The entry-level 40mm model is marked down $ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the 44mm model sees an even larger discount at $ 270 .
Only certain colors are in stock at those prices as of this writing and you may need to clip a coupon to activate the savings , so be sure to double-check Amazon to see what ’ s available .
Amazon is already slicing up to $ 49 off the list price of the new Apple Watch Series 6 in certain colors for the 40mm size or the 44mm models .
These latest watches are a bit faster thanks to a new @ @ @ @ @ @ @ such as a blood oxygen sensor .
And unlike the cheaper Apple Watch SE , they have the always-on display .
You ’ ll see the full savings at checkout , by the way .
Apple did this really fun thing with the new iPhone 12 models where… uh , well , it doesn ’ t come with a charging brick .
That ’ s weird , right ?
Apple says it ’ s to save the environment and assumes you already have a bunch of power adapters handy .
But if you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you need to buy one .
There are unofficial options out there , but if you want the real deal from Apple , the latest 20W USB-C brick is currently $ 2 off at Amazon .
That ’ s not huge savings , obviously , but you shouldn ’ t be paying anything for an adapter for a new $ 699+ phone .
So it ’ s something , at least .
If you have a relatively recent iPad and you want to use it for drawing , doodling , or hand-writing notes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Apple ’ s official Pencil stylus .
There are two models , and both are on sale right now .
The 2nd-gen Pencil works with the new iPad Air , the 3rd/4th-gen 12.9-inch iPad Pro , and 1st/2nd-gen 11-inch iPad Pro .
It ’ s $ 99 right now at Amazon , a savings of $ 30 .
The 2nd-gen model attaches and charges magnetically , has a matte finish , and lets you double-tap to change tools in supported apps .
Meanwhile , the older Pencil works with the older iPad Pro @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the 6th-8th-gen core iPads , and 5th-gen iPad Mini .
It ’ s $ 80 right now , or $ 19 off the list price .
This one is glossy with a silver band and charges via your iPad ’ s Lightning port .
Save $ 120 off the active noise-canceling wireless Beats Solo Pro headphones right now at Amazon in a a couple of colors .
They pair easily with iOS devices thanks to Apple ’ s H1 chip and promise a stellar 22 hours of battery life on a full charge @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at that price as of this writing , but double-check the listing as the prices fluctuate .
If you ’ re keen on cans instead of earbuds , Apple ’ s Beats brand has a solid deal on Solo3 wireless headphones right now .
They ’ re $ 8 0 off the list price right now at Amazon , but only in black .
Whatever you choose , you ’ ll get wireless headphones that pair easily with an iPhone and offer up to 40 hours of battery life .
Right now you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Apple ’ s largest current-gen iPad , the iPad Pro 12.9 ” .
With a massive ProMotion screen , serious speed onboard , and even a LIDAR camera , it ’ s the most perk-packed tablet in Apple ’ s stable .
And if you want Apple ’ s pricey Magic Keyboard for this model , it ’ s also $ 20 off at Amazon when you clip the coupon .
If you ’ re on the hunt for a large , semi-recent iPhone that you can take to any network , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ your alley .
It has a sizable 6.1 ” screen , is available in a handful of eye-catching colors , and the A12 Bionic processor is still plenty speedy compared to the top-end competition of today .
It ’ s more than $ 300 off the original new list price when you buy this certified renewed version from Amazon , which is unlocked .
The price varies slightly based on which color you choose .
Apple ’ s biggest current MacBook Pro model is a wallet-buster , as you might expect , but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hundred bucks off right now .
The 16 '' Silver base model is $ 105 off right now , snagging you a powerful notebook ideal for creative work via an Intel Core i7 processor , 16GB RAM , and a meaty 512GB of internal storage .
Part of that savings comes off at checkout , by the way .
Jump up to the Core i9 version with a 1TB SSD and you ’ ll save $ 300 off of its higher price point .
Apple ’ s MacBook laptops are popular , but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mac with a hell of a screen , you can ’ t go wrong with an iMac .
The all-in-one desktop has a huge 27-inch screen at a blistering 5K resolution , and pairs that with an Intel Core i5 chip and 256GB of storage .
Save $ 104 off the base model at Amazon right now .

Andrew Hayward on Roundups, shared by Gabe Carey to The Root

Featured Deal: Apple Watch Series 7 (Green) | $339 | Amazon
The best Apple deals and discounts of the month are here.
If you’re an Apple fan, then you know that the company’s popular iPhones, iPads, MacBooks, Apple Watch, and AirPods don’t come cheap—and sales can be sporadic.
Luckily, we watch Apple bargains like a hawk here at Kinja Deals, and we’re always keeping an eye out for the best deals across all Apple devices. Scope out some great prices on AirPods Pro, iPad Pro, and M1 Macs below, and stay tuned: we’ll be updating this roundup regularly.
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Have you been just itching to get an Apple Watch Series 7, but the full price of $399 is a bridge too far? Well, lucky you, it’s on sale at Amazon right now for $339—that’s $60 off, or enough to pick up an Apple Watch accessory like a new sport loop band. This deal is only on the base GPS watch, and only the green one, but listen, if you’re on a budget and you haven’t invited an Apple Watch into your life yet, I can attest to it being one of the most useful pieces of tech on the market right now.
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If you’re one to work in one fixed location, the 2020 iMac is on sale for $150 off. The 21.5" all-in-one 1080p desktop computer and monitor has 8GB of memory and a 256GB SSD. As is standard, it comes with the Apple Magic Mouse which can scroll in all directions like a touchpad on top and is just a delight to use—especially for artists. That discount brings it down to $950.
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Sick of your phone dying on you when you’re out and about? Well if you’ve got an iPhone 12 or later, you can just slap a MagSafe battery pack onto the back of it. No cables dangling around to connect to a powerbank. This uses the wireless charger in the back of the phone and stays magnetically connected to it. The whole thing fits right in your pocket, just bit more snug. Normally goes for $99, but you can get it for 9% off right now.
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Discounts on Apple’s new MacBook Air model with the powerful M1 chip have been steadier lately, and right now you can save a strong $100 off the 512GB model in silver or space gray. The M1 chip makes the MacBook Air “extraordinary,” thanks to fantastic battery life and better performance than some much pricier Windows-based rivals. If you’re on the hunt for a speedy, reliable new laptop, jump on this bargain! For folks who don’t need that much storage, the 256GB version is also $100 off bringing it to just $899.
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The deluxe AirPods Max are the over-the-ear option from Apple which normally run for $549. Right now, Amazon is offering roughly $70 off for a selection of different colors. If you’re looking for a comfy, fashionable, great-sounding set of headphones to seamlessly work with your other Apple tech, now may be the time to jump on board.
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The latest Apple TV in 4K is discounted over at Amazon. Only by $10, but hey. If you were in the market for an Apple TV and haven’t pulled the trigger yet, you might as well save $10. Get the 32GB version for $169 or the 64GB version for $190. I will say, the Siri remote is excellent to use so you can avoid typing in the shows or movies you want to pull up with just the arrow buttons and on screen keyboard.
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If you’re an iPhone user with some cash to blow, skip the pretenders and even the lesser AirPods to go for something better. The AirPods Pro step the game up with rubber tips, active noise cancellation, better overall audio quality, and a wirelessly-chargeable case as standard. They’re a bit expensive normally, but right now you can get ‘em for $59 off the list price.
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Just looking for something simple? Apple’s standard 2nd gen model AirPods are also on sale at Amazon. You can snag yourself a pair for $50 off. These earbuds are rechargeable via the case and cable and produce quality sound. If you don’t need the latest and greatest, you can save quite a bit of dough going with this previous generation version.
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Apple released the latest set of Bluetooth wireless earbuds in its AirPods 3. With an original price point of $179, you would expect it to fall somewhere between their old AirPods 2 and the $249 AirPods Pro. Well, you’d be exactly right. The AirPods 3 are a step up from the 2, adding some of the features we saw come with the Pro like spatial audio support and water resistance. They also have a redesign aesthetically. The most notable absent feature from the Pro is the lack of active noise canceling. Right now Amazon has them for $10 off.


theroot--2020-12-15--Space Jam: A New Legacy Contest Welcomes You to the (Game) Jam

Hey , real quick , do me a favor and have “ Space Jam ” by Quad City DJ s playing the entire time you read this .
I ’ m serious .
Oh , you think I ’ m not ?
Here ’ s the link to an hour-long loop ; get on it .
Now that the vibe has been properly set , let ’ s talk about all the cool gaming initiatives that are popping off to celebrate the upcoming release of Space Jam : A New Legacy !
If you , like many gamers , have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be to see one of your gaming ideas come to life , you ’ re in luck !
Space Jam : A New Legacy has partnered with Microsoft for the upcoming game based on the movie .
As part of that collaboration , gamers aged 14 and up can enter a contest and pitch their ideas for what they want to see in the upcoming game .
The two selected winners of the contest will see their ideas come to life in the Space Jam : A New Legacy arcade-style game that ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Pass next year .
You probably would rather hear all this from Bugs Bunny and LeBron James though , so I ’ ll let them take it from here .
Hey , uh , LeBron and Bugs .
I don ’ t know if you ’ re reading this , but I ’ m just saying I ’ ll love y ’ all even more if the new Space Jam game is just NBA Jam but with Looney Tunes .
The streets need this .
More importantly , I need this .
In @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tores will be holding multiple coding workshops themed around the movie to teach youngins the basics of coding and the STEAM ( Science , Technology , Engineering , Arts , and Mathematics ) careers that go into creating some of their favorite games .
There are also two Microsoft Learn lessons aimed at teens and more experienced coders that allows users to implement tools such as machine learning and Visual Studio Code to help a coach make “ real-time decisions in the middle of a game.
” Lebron really went “ Yes we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of course we ’ re going to jam , but you know what else we ’ re going to do ?
Learn.
” Jokes aside , this is actually a really cool way to teach kids skills that are going to be invaluable as they grow up in an increasingly digital world .
Space Jam : A New Legacy will slam into theaters and HBO Max in s ummer 2021 .
Now excuse me , I ’ m going to dig up my childhood copy of the Space Jam soundtrack .
Oh , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the Space Jam theme now .
I don ’ t know why you would want to but you can .

Hey, real quick, do me a favor and have “Space Jam” by Quad City DJ s playing the entire time you read this.
I’m serious. Oh, you think I’m not? Here’s the link to an hour-long loop; get on it.
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Now that the vibe has been properly set, let’s talk about all the cool gaming initiatives that are popping off to celebrate the upcoming release of Space Jam: A New Legacy!
If you, like many gamers, have ever thought about how cool it would be to see one of your gaming ideas come to life, you’re in luck! Space Jam: A New Legacy has partnered with Microsoft for the upcoming game based on the movie.
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As part of that collaboration, gamers aged 14 and up can enter a contest and pitch their ideas for what they want to see in the upcoming game. The two selected winners of the contest will see their ideas come to life in the Space Jam: A New Legacy arcade-style game that’s set to come to Xbox Game Pass next year.
You probably would rather hear all this from Bugs Bunny and LeBron James though, so I’ll let them take it from here.
Hey, uh, LeBron and Bugs. I don’t know if you’re reading this, but I’m just saying I’ll love y’all even more if the new Space Jam game is just NBA Jam but with Looney Tunes.
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The streets need this. More importantly, I need this.
In addition to the contest, Microsoft s tores will be holding multiple coding workshops themed around the movie to teach youngins the basics of coding and the STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) careers that go into creating some of their favorite games.
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There are also two Microsoft Learn lessons aimed at teens and more experienced coders that allows users to implement tools such as machine learning and Visual Studio Code to help a coach make “real-time decisions in the middle of a game.”
Lebron really went “Yes we’re going to slam, and of course we’re going to jam, but you know what else we’re going to do? Learn.”
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Jokes aside, this is actually a really cool way to teach kids skills that are going to be invaluable as they grow up in an increasingly digital world.
Space Jam: A New Legacy will slam into theaters and HBO Max in s ummer 2021. Now excuse me, I’m going to dig up my childhood copy of the Space Jam soundtrack.
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Oh, and I guess you can stop listening to the Space Jam theme now. I don’t know why you would want to but you can.


theroot--2020-12-14--Tyler Perry Donates $100,000 to the Legal Defense Fund of Breonna Taylor’s Boyfriend, Kenneth Walker

Deadline reports that writer-director-producer and Hollywood mogul Tyler Perry donated $ 100,000 last weekend to the legal defense fund of Kenneth Walker , the boyfriend of Breonna Taylor , a young ER technician tragically shot and killed in her own home by Louisville Metro Police officers issuing a no-knock warrant in March of this year .
Her death sparked global outrage and further pushed the conversation of police brutality , criminal justice , and social justice back into the spotlight .
One of the officers involved , Jonathan Mattingly , who was shot in the leg during the raid , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and battery in October .
As a result , a GoFundMe page was created in November to aid Walker in his fight against the suit .
Per the page : It was Kenneth who endured a home invasion by armed plainclothes intruders .
It was Kenneth who watched his girlfriend die before his eyes .
It was Kenneth who was intimidated and jailed .
It was Kenneth who was charged for attempted murder .
It was Kenneth who watched the men who killed his girlfriend escape any charges related to her death @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s outrageous for one of the men partially responsible for all that , to sue the man who endured it .
The raid that killed Breonna Taylor was poorly conceived , nightmarishly executed , and hastily covered-up .
The subsequent grand jury proceedings were farcical and staged .
Daniel Cameron ’ s statements were disingenuous , at best .
Jon Mattingly ’ s lawsuit is the nearly-unbelievable next step in this ongoing mockery of justice .
With the addition of Perry ’ s recent donations , they ’ ve surpassed their $ 100K @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in .
Perry has a noted history of philanthropic efforts , recently serving 5,000 families with non-perishable food items and gift cards over the Thanksgiving holiday .
Before that , he also paid for the funerals of Rayshard Brooks and 8 -year-old Secoriea Turner this past summer .

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

Deadline reports that writer-director-producer and Hollywood mogul Tyler Perry donated $100,000 last weekend to the legal defense fund of Kenneth Walker, the boyfriend of Breonna Taylor, a young ER technician tragically shot and killed in her own home by Louisville Metro Police officers issuing a no-knock warrant in March of this year. Her death sparked global outrage and further pushed the conversation of police brutality, criminal justice, and social justice back into the spotlight.
One of the officers involved, Jonathan Mattingly, who was shot in the leg during the raid, sued Walker for emotional distress, assault, and battery in October. As a result, a GoFundMe page was created in November to aid Walker in his fight against the suit. Per the page:
It was Kenneth who endured a home invasion by armed plainclothes intruders. It was Kenneth who watched his girlfriend die before his eyes. It was Kenneth who was intimidated and jailed. It was Kenneth who was charged for attempted murder. It was Kenneth who watched the men who killed his girlfriend escape any charges related to her death, much less convictions. It’s outrageous for one of the men partially responsible for all that, to sue the man who endured it. The raid that killed Breonna Taylor was poorly conceived, nightmarishly executed, and hastily covered-up. The subsequent grand jury proceedings were farcical and staged. Daniel Cameron’s statements were disingenuous, at best. Jon Mattingly’s lawsuit is the nearly-unbelievable next step in this ongoing mockery of justice.
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With the addition of Perry’s recent donations, they’ve surpassed their $100K goal, with donations continuing to pour in. Perry has a noted history of philanthropic efforts, recently serving 5,000 families with non-perishable food items and gift cards over the Thanksgiving holiday. Before that, he also paid for the funerals of Rayshard Brooks and 8 -year-old Secoriea Turner this past summer.


theroot--2020-12-14--New Virtual Reality Projects Allow People to Experience Racism Firsthand

I am very much a fan of virtual reality .
While I mainly use my Oculus Quest to play Tetris Effect and live out my fanboy fantasies of skirtin ’ in an X-Wing , the technology is capable of so much more than just spectacle-fueled gaming .
Case in point , a group of programmers are working on games that allow users to experience racism first hand .
According to Axios , the projects are being developed at universities and private labs across the country .
While mostly intended as tools for educators , the games could have some commercial @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Am A Man , which places you as a participant at the 1968 Memphis Sanitation Workers Strike and grants players a first hand experience of the events that led up to the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King , Jr .
Traveling While Black , currently available on the Oculus Quest , is set around the historic Ben ’ s Chili Bowl in Washington , D.C. , and shows what it was like to travel while Black during the Jim Crow era .
If you ’ re curious about these experiences but don @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , no worries !
You can download these games directly to your computer and experience them as an interactive 360 video .
I think this is an inspired and incredibly forward-thinking use of the technology .
If you ’ ve never played in VR , it ’ s hard to truly describe just how immersive it can be .
After getting your bearings , you truly feel like you ’ re in another world .
Using that immersion as a way to build empathy in players is , to me , a truly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , just experiencing racism in a video game can be a somewhat transformative experience .
I distinctly remember playing Mafia III for the first time .
It ’ s a game set in a fictional city in the American South during the late 1960s and you play as a Black protagonist .
The game doesn ’ t shy away from the fact that you ’ re a Black man during a time where casual racism is the norm .
Walking down the street and seeing non-playable characters ( NPCs ) try to avoid @ @ @ @ @ @ @ just having the N-word casually hurled at you was , to put it lightly , some shit .
Even though I ’ ve been called nigger in real life , it was somewhat eye-opening to play through what was a common reality for both my gramps and my nana back in the day .
I can only imagine how that experience would be intensified with a VR headset .
“ This is a powerful medium that allows you to experience the perspective of another person , and maybe , just maybe , you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on ] how people experienced life as a Black person , ” Derek Ham , creator of I Am A Man , told Axios .
As an educational tool , this could be incredible if VR headsets eventually make their way into the classroom .
Who knows , maybe even some abject racist will get drunk , download it for a laugh , and actually come away learning something .
Unlikely , but a man can dream .

I am very much a fan of virtual reality. While I mainly use my Oculus Quest to play Tetris Effect and live out my fanboy fantasies of skirtin’ in an X-Wing, the technology is capable of so much more than just spectacle-fueled gaming. Case in point, a group of programmers are working on games that allow users to experience racism first hand.
According to Axios, the projects are being developed at universities and private labs across the country. While mostly intended as tools for educators, the games could have some commercial appeal.
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These include games like I Am A Man, which places you as a participant at the 1968 Memphis Sanitation Workers Strike and grants players a first hand experience of the events that led up to the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Traveling While Black, currently available on the Oculus Quest, is set around the historic Ben’s Chili Bowl in Washington, D.C., and shows what it was like to travel while Black during the Jim Crow era.
If you’re curious about these experiences but don’t have a bougie VR headset, no worries! You can download these games directly to your computer and experience them as an interactive 360 video.
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I think this is an inspired and incredibly forward-thinking use of the technology. If you’ve never played in VR, it’s hard to truly describe just how immersive it can be. After getting your bearings, you truly feel like you’re in another world. Using that immersion as a way to build empathy in players is, to me, a truly beautiful thing.
Even outside of VR, just experiencing racism in a video game can be a somewhat transformative experience. I distinctly remember playing Mafia III for the first time. It’s a game set in a fictional city in the American South during the late 1960s and you play as a Black protagonist. The game doesn’t shy away from the fact that you’re a Black man during a time where casual racism is the norm.
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Walking down the street and seeing non-playable characters (NPCs) try to avoid you because of your race, or just having the N-word casually hurled at you was, to put it lightly, some shit. Even though I’ve been called nigger in real life, it was somewhat eye-opening to play through what was a common reality for both my gramps and my nana back in the day. I can only imagine how that experience would be intensified with a VR headset.
“This is a powerful medium that allows you to experience the perspective of another person, and maybe, just maybe, you’ll change your own perspective [on] how people experienced life as a Black person,” Derek Ham, creator of I Am A Man, told Axios.
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As an educational tool, this could be incredible if VR headsets eventually make their way into the classroom. Who knows, maybe even some abject racist will get drunk, download it for a laugh, and actually come away learning something.
Unlikely, but a man can dream.


theroot--2020-12-14--Pour Yourself a Glass of Something Strong for Huckberry’s Extended Cyber Monday Deals

The best Huckberry deals of the holiday season are here .
After 9 months into the pandemic , I bet that your co-workers have probably seen every shirt you own on your Zoom meetings .
If I ’ m right , then there ’ s no better excuse to spice up your virtual workwear by chasing in on Huckberry ’ s best deals of the holiday season .
How about a warm coat for a socially-distanced morning stroll ?
Gear up for a rugged solo trek in nature away from the COVID-19 pandamonium .
Huckberry can help you do all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ too .
From housewares to footwear , Huckberry has everything you can think of on sale , even a personal concrete fireplace .
For a fee of $ 6.99 , this retailer is ensuring that you ’ re holiday gifts arrive in time for Christmas .
Whether your backpacking or just hanging out at home , having an absorbent towel handy is always helpful .
However , quality towels are often thick and take up a load of space .
But not Turkish Towels .
The brand ’ s Herringbone towel ( 40x70 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ into the approximate shape and size of a burrito , yet is claimed to be as absorbent as a beach towel .
It dries quickly and gets softer with each wash , too !
Save $ 20 right now from Huckberry .
Water- and sweat-proof , these headphones are designed to outlast any outdoor activity .
This product is the only headphone that meets MIL-STD 810G requirements , which requires withstanding hurricane-force water , desert sandstorm conditions , and exposure to tropical humidity .
It even has built-in tracking capabilities so that you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Lightweight and breathable , the Proof Shift Packable Shell is the ultimate nylon blend windbreaker .
Both a wind- and water-resistant shell , this style-forward jacket is ideal for a neighborhood jog or mountain hike .
At over $ 80 off , it ’ s the perfect pick for an outdoor adventure .
Looking for the perfect well-worn flannel shirt ?
Flint and Tinder ’ s Telluride Plaid Shirt is made from textured fabric and is great for yard work , or for just hanging out at home .
With a button-down collar @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with anything and can be worn year-round .
And to boot , it ’ s marked down $ 40 right now .
Save more than half off the list price of these Greats Royale Knit sneakers in black and white , which are “ inspired by the no-BS attitude of retro kicks.
” They look comfy and are a great price right now , plus they ’ re made from the recycled material of seven plastic bottles per shoe .
There ’ s a grey and white version , too , but they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ This is the leather version of the Greats Royale sneakers , which are pricier but also still $ 54 off the list price .
They ’ re handcrafted in Italy and come in 100 % recycled packaging , although these shoes aren ’ t made from recycled materials themselves .
The Royale sneakers look slick but comfortable , with breathable leather .
Crafted with midweight terry , this blanket is perfect for warming up on the couch or sitting by the campfire .
The blanket ’ s edge is bound in a rib-knit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Jaybird has been designing audio technology for any activity from exercising to your morning commute .
These headphones have a rechargeable 14-hour battery in order to outlast any plans that you have for the day .
You can even save custom EQ settings for the best listening experience possible .
I don ’ t know about you , but there ’ s nothing more bothersome than not being able to use my phone while I ’ m out in the wintertime .
Made with warm fleece , these gloves are designed with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the use of your touch screen in temperatures between 32°F and 45°F .
With the iconic Novesta Star Dribble , this classic high tip sneaker stands out from the crowd without being overly flashy .
Handmade in Slovakia , these shoes were made with a comfortable insole and a toe cap for long-lasting use .
And on the plus side , Huckberry promises the best price guaranteed !
This handsome checkerboard button-up is made in Portugal , using a “ lightweight fabric [ that ] was developed centuries ago for folks in India @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” Sounds epic , and looks pretty comfy too .
Best of all , it ’ s half off the list price right now .
Grayers ’ Paragon quilted featherweight jacket is perfect , combining warmth and a lightweight design .
It ’ ll keep heat in and block the wind without being overbearing , plus you ’ ll save $ 94 off the list price from Huckberry right now .
This deal was originally written by Sheilah Villari on 03/31/2020 and updated by Juliana Clark on 12/14/2020 .

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

Featured Deal: Alba Optics Solo | $174
Huckberry’s best deals of September 2021 are here!
After spending the better part of the calendar year in a pandemic, I bet that your co-workers have probably seen every shirt you own on your Zoom meetings. If I’m right, then there’s no better excuse to spice up your virtual workwear by cashing in on Huckberry’s best deals.
From apparel to footwear, Huckberry has everything you can think of on sale.
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Made from hemp and organic cotton, the Wellen Hemp Polo provides long-lasting wear with sustainable materials that you can wear guilt-free. It is an easy-going , ultra-flattering design that will give you plenty of room without being baggy.
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The Flint and Tinder 365 Shorts - 9" is a performance short chino that was carefully constructed from a blended fabric to create a soft, year-round garment. It’s pre-shrunk for the ideal fit right out of the box. Note that it was expertly made from a sustainable factory in Indonesia.
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I don’t know about you, but I love tie-dye. Available in mustard, navy, and tide, the Wellen Shibori Stripe Tee features a beautiful pattern, made from the shibori dyeing process which is all done by hand.
Made from 100% organic cotton, these t-shirts also have the signature Wellen softness and are environmentally friendly.
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Having a solid set of whiskey glasses is key to kicking off the summer right! When you raise a glass to toast at the next outdoor party, do it in style!
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Huckberry is selling some beautiful Whiskey Peaks glasses, including American Mountains, Grand Tetons, and International Mountains. These glasses are made from 100% lead-free handblown glass, which is lighter than leaded glass and equally durable.
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As part of the summer sale, Huckberry is offering an up to 25% discount on hybrid shorts, which can be worn either in the water or on land. Plus, the hydrophobic fabrics dry super quickly, so you’re ready to hit your local bar.
The Beardedgoat Ridgeline Short is versatile and durable. It provides a four-way stretch for maximum mobility. Made from nylon ripstop fabric, this product is lightweight, yet durable. Plus, it comes with two side hand pockets, two rear pockets, and a hidden stash pocket for valuables.
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Handmade in Northern Italy, Astorflex can guarantee quality shoes that are stylish and eco-friendly. Plus, their soles are 100% made from natural rubber to ensure that you’re walking on a cloud. For Memorial Day weekend, Huckberry is offering deals on products from this brand at up to 35% off.
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The line-up includes styles and designs that will satisfy even the pickiest of shoe shoppers. One example is the highly flexible Astorflex Patnoflex Travel, the ideal summer shoe for those on the move. Another is the Astroflex Rolflex, a great shoe to transition from one season to another.
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Linen shirts are super stylish and functional for the summertime. However, my biggest pet peeve is how easily they wrinkle. Well, no more! Introducing the Wills Wrinkle-Free Linen Shirt (Bright Navy).
This breathable, lightweight garment pairs well with chinos, slacks, and even shorts. Note that it comes with a single pocket at the left chest, which is a great place to store a handy pen.
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With temperatures rising, everyone needs to have a beach towel in their arsenal. And why not cash in on one at a discounted price? At up to 45% off, Turkish Towels are a steal this Memorial Day weekend. They are super soft and plush, regardless if you are sitting by the pool, the lake, or the ocean.
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Named after the 45 RPM, Forty Five makes classic, vintage t-shirts to pay homage to the ‘60s and ‘70s. The brand’s shirts are made from 100% USA-grown Supima cotton in Los Angeles’ Fashion District. They’ve been designed at the perfect length for tucking and untucking and with a timeless sleeve length. They’re also been garment-dyed for added softness and preshrunk to ensure that you get the perfect fit.
This weekend, buy three t-shirts at the bundled price of $95.
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Looking for a new pair of glasses? Try the Alba Optics Solo, which features stunning lenses to choose from. They are designed to withstand the rigors of hiking and provides blue light and UV protection. Its color equalizer gives beautiful clarity and temple tips are telescopic to provide a custom fit. Note that these are made it Italy, so you’re getting the best of the best fashion-wise .
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Marine Layer Banks Pullover Hoodie is a great garment for a casual outing. As a brand, Marine Layer is known for providing the ultimate comfort and quality. This fabric has a heathered look to give a vintage impression. It also has a kangaroo pouch for storage. And it has a functional drawstring hoodie to ward off a cold breeze.
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Every guy needs a smart pair of trousers to take them from the office to the cornerstore without missing a beat. Available in 10 vibrant colors, the Flint and Tinder 365 pants are now on sale at two for $175. You can put that extra $21 on a summer date night. They’re super lightweight and dyed to comfortable straight out of the box. They even come with a fifth front pocket to securely carry all of your belongings.
This story was originally written by Sheilah Villari on 03/31/2020 and updated with new information by Juliana Clark on 09/09/2021.


theroot--2020-12-14--Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms Declined Cabinet Position in Biden Administration, Senior Adviser

Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms Declined Cabinet Position in Biden Administration, Senior Adviser Confirms

It ’ s no secret that there has been a huge push for President-elect Joe Biden to appoint Black women to his cabinet .
The incoming administration has already set the tone with Kamala Harris as vice president , not to mention having Symone Sanders and Karine Jean-Pierre on its all-women communications team .
Most recently , Biden picked Ohio Rep. Marcia Fudge to serve as our next housing and urban development secretary ( although a lot of people are pissed that she wasn ’ t chosen to head up the U.S. Department of Agriculture ) .
Well apparently , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms to its cabinet , but she turned the position down in order to focus on leading her city .
Rashad Taylor , Bottoms ’ senior adviser , confirmed to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution that the mayor was offered a position in Biden ’ s cabinet without specifying what that position was .
“ Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms was honored to have been offered a role in the Cabinet , which she respectfully declined , ” Taylor said in a statement .
“ The Mayor ’ s focus remains on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ state of Georgia .
Out of respect for the process , and the other candidates under consideration , no additional comment will be forthcoming on this matter at this time.
” Before Biden was elected as America ’ s 46th president—a thing y ’ all ’ s president-reject and his loyal cult still refuse to properly acknowledge—Bottoms ’ name was among a slew of Black women suggested as a possible running mates and cabinet members for Biden should he win the presidency .
According to AJC , there was “ wide speculation ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an appointment by Biden to be ambassador to the Bahamas .
Taylor denied that rumor saying , “ She was never offered an Ambassadorship.
” Ah well , Bottoms in Biden ’ s cabinet was certainly a nice thought , but Atlanta needs her .
As an Atlanta-area resident , I have to say , I ’ m glad she ’ s still in charge of the city .

It’s no secret that there has been a huge push for President-elect Joe Biden to appoint Black women to his cabinet. The incoming administration has already set the tone with Kamala Harris as vice president, not to mention having Symone Sanders and Karine Jean-Pierre on its all-women communications team. Most recently, Biden picked Ohio Rep. Marcia Fudge to serve as our next housing and urban development secretary (although a lot of people are pissed that she wasn’t chosen to head up the U.S. Department of Agriculture). Well apparently, the Biden administration was looking to add Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms to its cabinet, but she turned the position down in order to focus on leading her city.
Rashad Taylor, Bottoms’ senior adviser, confirmed to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution that the mayor was offered a position in Biden’s cabinet without specifying what that position was.
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“Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms was honored to have been offered a role in the Cabinet, which she respectfully declined,” Taylor said in a statement. “The Mayor’s focus remains on the people of Atlanta and the great state of Georgia. Out of respect for the process, and the other candidates under consideration, no additional comment will be forthcoming on this matter at this time.”
Before Biden was elected as America’s 46th president—a thing y’all’s president-reject and his loyal cult still refuse to properly acknowledge—Bottoms’ name was among a slew of Black women suggested as a possible running mates and cabinet members for Biden should he win the presidency.
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According to AJC, there was “wide speculation” on social media that Bottoms turned down an appointment by Biden to be ambassador to the Bahamas. Taylor denied that rumor saying, “She was never offered an Ambassadorship.”
Ah well, Bottoms in Biden’s cabinet was certainly a nice thought, but Atlanta needs her. As an Atlanta-area resident, I have to say, I’m glad she’s still in charge of the city.


theroot--2020-12-14--BLM Organizer Blames Mayor Bowser, D.C. Police for Pro-Trump Violence: 'They Were Coming to Harass U

BLM Organizer Blames Mayor Bowser, D.C. Police for Pro-Trump Violence: 'They Were Coming to Harass Us'

As police and city officials continue to investigate the chaos that broke out during last weekend ’ s pro-Donald Trump rally in Washington , D.C. , one Black Lives Matter organizer is calling out local authorities for their failure to properly enforce the protests .
“ If Black people and people of color was to act like this , they would have done what they ’ ve been doing since [ the ] George Floyd protests started .
Tear gassing us , beating us and arresting us , ” Black Lives Matter DC co-organizer Nee Nee Taylor told WTOP on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ after the pro-Trump ralliers , which included the Proud Boys , were involved in violent stabbing attacks related to the protests .
D.C. Police have also identified four churches that were vandalized over the weekend , including one incident in which a group of white men marched with and subsequently set fire to a Black Lives Matter banner torn from one of the churches , reports t he Washington Post .
D.C. Police say they arrested 38 people during the protests , ten of whom were charged with assault on a police officer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ D.C. Police Chief Peter Newsham , eight officers were injured , one seriously .
The attacks on the churches are being investigated as hate crimes , Newsham said .
D.C. Mayor Muriel E. Bowser ( D ) was quick to condemn the protesters following the violence .
“ These Proud Boys are avowed white nationalists and have been called to stand up against a fair and legal election , ” Bowser said .
“ This is a symptom of the hateful rhetoric , anti-science noise and people who refuse to accept the result @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also placed blame on the Proud Boys .
According to his estimates , pro-Trump ralliers outnumbered anti-Trump groups by “ a ratio of about 6 or 7 to 1.
” “ At the end of the day considering the volume of people who came , considering the volume of folks that seemed inclined to get into physical confrontations , I was pretty impressed with the police response , ” Newsham said .
But the police chief also characterized the violent clashes between the two groups as involving “ mutual combatants ” despite the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Bowser and Newsham , despite their rhetoric , dropped the ball on managing the pro-Trump demonstrators , who convened in the nation ’ s capital to throw their support behind the outgoing president ahead of Monday ’ s electoral college votes ( surprising exactly no one still tethered to reality , Biden received electoral votes from all the states Trump had baselessly contested ) .
Taylor says Black Lives Matter demonstrators were on hand on Saturday to protect Black Lives Matter Plaza—namely , a portion of fencing that was “ adorned with protest @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
It was important to preserve the plaza as a safe space , Taylor said , and BLM demonstrators took shifts in an attempt to protect the area .
According to Taylor , police did little to prevent Proud Boys and other pro-Trump protesters from destroying Black Lives Matter signage and antagonizing people in the plaza .
“ I would ask the police , ‘ Why are you allowing them to incite violence ?
’ ” Taylor said .
“ They were coming to harass us and threaten us.
” She drew comparisons @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at their rallies in the city over the summer , noting that the heavy-handed enforcement racial justice demonstrators saw in D.C. didn ’ t seem to apply to the majority-white protesters this weekend .
“ That happened to none of the Proud Boys , ” she said , later adding , “ I hold Mayor Bowser responsible for this .
”

As police and city officials continue to investigate the chaos that broke out during last weekend’s pro-Donald Trump rally in Washington, D.C., one Black Lives Matter organizer is calling out local authorities for their failure to properly enforce the protests.
“If Black people and people of color was to act like this, they would have done what they’ve been doing since [the] George Floyd protests started. Tear gassing us, beating us and arresting us,” Black Lives Matter DC co-organizer Nee Nee Taylor told WTOP on Sunday.
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Taylor’s accusation comes after the pro-Trump ralliers, which included the Proud Boys, were involved in violent stabbing attacks related to the protests. D.C. Police have also identified four churches that were vandalized over the weekend, including one incident in which a group of white men marched with and subsequently set fire to a Black Lives Matter banner torn from one of the churches, reports t he Washington Post.
D.C. Police say they arrested 38 people during the protests, ten of whom were charged with assault on a police officer, reports the Post. According to D.C. Police Chief Peter Newsham, eight officers were injured, one seriously.
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The attacks on the churches are being investigated as hate crimes, Newsham said.
D.C. Mayor Muriel E. Bowser (D) was quick to condemn the protesters following the violence.
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“These Proud Boys are avowed white nationalists and have been called to stand up against a fair and legal election,” Bowser said. “This is a symptom of the hateful rhetoric, anti-science noise and people who refuse to accept the result of a fair American election.”
Newsham also placed blame on the Proud Boys. According to his estimates, pro-Trump ralliers outnumbered anti-Trump groups by “a ratio of about 6 or 7 to 1.”
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“At the end of the day considering the volume of people who came, considering the volume of folks that seemed inclined to get into physical confrontations, I was pretty impressed with the police response,” Newsham said.
But the police chief also characterized the violent clashes between the two groups as involving “mutual combatants” despite the disproportionate numbers.
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Taylor says that Mayor Bowser and Newsham, despite their rhetoric, dropped the ball on managing the pro-Trump demonstrators, who convened in the nation’s capital to throw their support behind the outgoing president ahead of Monday’s electoral college votes (surprising exactly no one still tethered to reality, Biden received electoral votes from all the states Trump had baselessly contested).
Taylor says Black Lives Matter demonstrators were on hand on Saturday to protect Black Lives Matter Plaza—namely, a portion of fencing that was “adorned with protest artwork and posters,” writes WTOP.
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It was important to preserve the plaza as a safe space, Taylor said, and BLM demonstrators took shifts in an attempt to protect the area.
According to Taylor, police did little to prevent Proud Boys and other pro-Trump protesters from destroying Black Lives Matter signage and antagonizing people in the plaza.
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“I would ask the police, ‘Why are you allowing them to incite violence?’” Taylor said. “They were coming to harass us and threaten us.”
She drew comparisons to the way BLM protesters were treated at their rallies in the city over the summer, noting that the heavy-handed enforcement racial justice demonstrators saw in D.C. didn’t seem to apply to the majority-white protesters this weekend.
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“That happened to none of the Proud Boys,” she said, later adding, “I hold Mayor Bowser responsible for this.”


theroot--2020-12-14--Horse Owner Accused of Racism After Naming Racehorse 'Jungle Bunny'

After hundreds of years , white people have yet to develop a cure for racism—though it only took them nine months to create a vaccine for the coronavirus .
( Oh wait , no they didn ’ t .
They just like to credit for shit they shouldn ’ t . )
This reinforces the widely held belief that they have alllllllllllllll the effort and ingenuity in the world to oppress our Black asses , but oddly lose that same zeal when it ’ s time to acknowledge our humanity and treat us as equals .
They disproportionately jail us @ @ @ @ @ @ @ offer us higher interest rates , deny us equal jobs and wages , and pull a whole bunch of other privileged bullshit that makes it abundantly clear that the playing field we share is anything but fair .
But one of the best examples of how committed white folks are to racism is the laundry list of racial epithets that they ’ ve created and have been hurling our way ever since they were kind enough to drag us across the ocean during the Middle Passage .
Porch monkey , coon , moon @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on .
Sometimes they ’ ll say it straight to your face , other times they ’ ll try to be a bit more indirect about it , but the end result is always the same : try as we may determine otherwise , our dignity will forever remain their favorite punchline—which brings us to horse owner-trainer David Evans .
Racing ’ s ruling body is to review the process by which it approves racehorse names after a runner was allowed to compete under the name of a racial slur .
The horse @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a low-profile contest at Wolverhampton on Saturday , having been missed by officials at the British Horseracing Authority ( BHA ) who are supposed to prevent offensive and inappropriate names being used .
Yes , horse racing is full of quirky names , but before you extend grace and assume all is not as it seems , apparently Evans has been on this bullshit for a while .
Emma Evans , the wife of Dave , maintains that it was an “ innocent mistake ” with no racial connotation .
More specifically , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s sire , Bungle Inthejungle .
“ David ’ s daughter gave us the horse and there ’ s a computer game called Jungle Bunny Run , which her son loves playing , ” Emma told The Guardian .
“ I just thought , that ’ ll do .
I had no idea .
It was completely innocent and that is the gospel truth.
” “ None of the staff said anything , nobody else said anything and I ’ m totally flabbergasted , ” Emma continued .
“ I ’ m @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sunday ruined by everybody ringing about it .
It makes you look like a racist , which I am certainly not.
” To clarify , I ’ m by no means calling Dave and Emma racists because I ’ ve never met them a day in my life .
But if you own a horse named Jungle Bunny , you sure as fuck look the part .
So I don ’ t get why she ’ s so surprised by people ’ s reactions .
In response to this couple channeling their inner @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and could be considering disciplinary action .
“ We reiterate the apology that was issued after the horse ran .
Racist language is not tolerated in our sport , whether intentional or accidental , ” a spokesperson for the BHA told The Guardian .
“ We are opposed to racism and prejudice in all its forms and are committed to making British racing an open , diverse and inclusive industry that is welcoming to all .
“ We are deeply concerned as to how this happened and are reviewing the processes for approving @ @ @ @ @ @ @ future , maybe the BHA might want to consider doing this : “ They should just put every proposed name through urban dictionary , ” Twitter user @ _Harriet90 tweeted .
She might be onto something .
Or white folks could just stop being racist , “ accidentally ” or otherwise .

After hundreds of years, white people have yet to develop a cure for racism—though it only took them nine months to create a vaccine for the coronavirus. (Oh wait, no they didn’t. They just like to credit for shit they shouldn’t.) This reinforces the widely held belief that they have alllllllllllllll the effort and ingenuity in the world to oppress our Black asses, but oddly lose that same zeal when it’s time to acknowledge our humanity and treat us as equals.
They disproportionately jail us, subject us to unethical healthcare, offer us higher interest rates, deny us equal jobs and wages, and pull a whole bunch of other privileged bullshit that makes it abundantly clear that the playing field we share is anything but fair. But one of the best examples of how committed white folks are to racism is the laundry list of racial epithets that they’ve created and have been hurling our way ever since they were kind enough to drag us across the ocean during the Middle Passage.
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Porch monkey, coon, moon cricket, the list goes on and on. Sometimes they’ll say it straight to your face, other times they’ll try to be a bit more indirect about it, but the end result is always the same: try as we may determine otherwise, our dignity will forever remain their favorite punchline—which brings us to horse owner-trainer David Evans.
From The Guardian:
Racing’s ruling body is to review the process by which it approves racehorse names after a runner was allowed to compete under the name of a racial slur. The horse, named Jungle Bunny, raced in a low-profile contest at Wolverhampton on Saturday, having been missed by officials at the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) who are supposed to prevent offensive and inappropriate names being used.
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Yes, horse racing is full of quirky names, but before you extend grace and assume all is not as it seems, apparently Evans has been on this bullshit for a while.
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Emma Evans, the wife of Dave, maintains that it was an “innocent mistake” with no racial connotation. More specifically, that the name was derived from filly’s sire, Bungle Inthejungle.
“David’s daughter gave us the horse and there’s a computer game called Jungle Bunny Run, which her son loves playing,” Emma told The Guardian. “I just thought, that’ll do. I had no idea. It was completely innocent and that is the gospel truth.”
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The gospel truth, dammit!
“None of the staff said anything, nobody else said anything and I’m totally flabbergasted,” Emma continued. “I’m upset because we’ve had our Sunday ruined by everybody ringing about it. It makes you look like a racist, which I am certainly not.”
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She’s totally flabbergasted, dammit!
To clarify, I’m by no means calling Dave and Emma racists because I’ve never met them a day in my life. But if you own a horse named Jungle Bunny, you sure as fuck look the part. So I don’t get why she’s so surprised by people’s reactions.
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In response to this couple channeling their inner “accidental” racists—allegedly—the BHA has apologized and could be considering disciplinary action.
“We reiterate the apology that was issued after the horse ran. Racist language is not tolerated in our sport, whether intentional or accidental,” a spokesperson for the BHA told The Guardian. “We are opposed to racism and prejudice in all its forms and are committed to making British racing an open, diverse and inclusive industry that is welcoming to all.
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“We are deeply concerned as to how this happened and are reviewing the processes for approving the names of racehorses.”
Umm, OK.
In the future, maybe the BHA might want to consider doing this:
“They should just put every proposed name through urban dictionary,” Twitter user @_Harriet90 tweeted.
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She might be onto something.
Or white folks could just stop being racist, “accidentally” or otherwise.


theroot--2020-12-14--Michael Jackson Estate's Request to Take HBO Disparagement Dispute to Arbitration Has Been Granted

It looks like the legal tussle between HBO and Michael Jackson ’ s estate over the highly controversial documentary Leaving Neverland , which accused Jackson of sexually abusing Wade Robson and James Safechuck when they were young boys , will be heard by an arbitrator .
According to Variety , an appeals court has granted Jackson ’ s estate appeal request in regard to an ongoing suit worth $ 100 million .
For background : The late artist ’ s estate sued HBO for allegedly violating a 27-year-old non-disparagement clause from Dangerous , a concert film the premium cable network @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a federal court had denied the estate ’ s request to take the suit to arbitration .
Last year , a lower court granted the estate ’ s motion to take the dispute to arbitration , as provided by the contract .
HBO appealed , but on Monday a three-judge panel of the 9th Circuit Court of Appeal upheld the lower court ruling .
The judges conceded that the suit may be “ frivolous , ” as HBO has claimed , but said it will be up to an arbitrator to make that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ broad arbitration clause that covers claims that HBO disparaged Jackson in violation of ongoing confidentiality obligations , ” the panel ruled .
“ We may only identify whether the parties agreed to arbitrate such claims ; it is for the arbitrator to decide whether those claims are meritorious.
” HBO ’ s legal team argues that the network had never granted the estate full veto over anything they ’ d ever say about him and claimed that the 1992 contract had expired once both parties fulfilled their obligations .
“ An arbitration clause @ @ @ @ @ @ @ if the parties fully performed the contract years ago , ” the circuit court ’ s panel of judges , consisting of Circuit Judges Richard Paez and Lawrence VanDyke and District Judge Karin Immergut , argued .
So , HBO is left with two choices—either they can appeal the circuit court ’ s most recent decision or head to arbitration .
We ’ ll keep you posted on what happens next .

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

It looks like the legal tussle between HBO and Michael Jackson’s estate over the highly controversial documentary Leaving Neverland, which accused Jackson of sexually abusing Wade Robson and James Safechuck when they were young boys, will be heard by an arbitrator.
According to Variety, an appeals court has granted Jackson’s estate appeal request in regard to an ongoing suit worth $100 million. For background: The late artist’s estate sued HBO for allegedly violating a 27-year-old non-disparagement clause from Dangerous, a concert film the premium cable network aired in 1992. Last year, a federal court had denied the estate’s request to take the suit to arbitration.
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Variety reports:
Last year, a lower court granted the estate’s motion to take the dispute to arbitration, as provided by the contract. HBO appealed, but on Monday a three-judge panel of the 9th Circuit Court of Appeal upheld the lower court ruling. The judges conceded that the suit may be “frivolous,” as HBO has claimed, but said it will be up to an arbitrator to make that call. “The contract contained a broad arbitration clause that covers claims that HBO disparaged Jackson in violation of ongoing confidentiality obligations,” the panel ruled. “We may only identify whether the parties agreed to arbitrate such claims; it is for the arbitrator to decide whether those claims are meritorious.”
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HBO’s legal team argues that the network had never granted the estate full veto over anything they’d ever say about him and claimed that the 1992 contract had expired once both parties fulfilled their obligations.
“An arbitration clause can still bind the parties, even if the parties fully performed the contract years ago,” the circuit court’s panel of judges, consisting of Circuit Judges Richard Paez and Lawrence VanDyke and District Judge Karin Immergut, argued.
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So, HBO is left with two choices—either they can appeal the circuit court’s most recent decision or head to arbitration. We’ll keep you posted on what happens next.


theroot--2020-12-14--The 10 Best Deals of December 14, 2020

The 10 Best Deals of December 14, 2020

It ’ s December 14 , and we at Kinja Deals are here to bring you the top 10 deals of the day .
Escape the current doomsday with an Oculus Rift S , PlayStation Plus 12-month membership , and Assassin ’ s Creed Valhalla .
Then bundle up and simmer down with an UGG ’ s throw blanket and a $ 29 electric tea kettle .
If you ’ re still craving more deals , take a peek at Monday ’ s best deals overall .
While they ’ re not as much of an upgrade to the original @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s second-generation AirPods improved upon the first in terms of connectivity and features , thanks to the proprietary H1 chip which not only doubled the speed in which the ‘ phones can swap between devices but also added native Siri support and reduced the time spent pairing the AirPods to your iPhone when taking a phone call .
For on-the-go gamers , latency dropped 30 % .
Now the price is dropping , too , at least on Amazon .
For a limited time , you can pop a pair of AirPods @ @ @ @ @ @ @ off using the coupon listed on the page .
Granted , this is the cheaper version of the AirPods 2 , not the wireless charging model you might ’ ve seen before .
That one is currently sold out on Amazon , though you could append a wireless charging case later for $ 69- $ 79 depending on whether it ’ s on sale or not ( it is right now ! )
.
Cutting that lil ’ coupon brings your checkout subtotal to $ 110 , saving you 31 % .
All @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ t be in stock until after Christmas , meaning your last-minute gift idea likely won ’ t make it under the tree .
On the page , however , Amazon does suggest sending the recipient a gift card for an instant purchase if they don ’ t mind picking their gift off the doorstep in time for their first resolution-driven workout of the new year .
In the meantime , set them up with an extra power brick for $ 17 , so when the AirPods 2 do arrive , they ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their phone and earbuds with the same charger .
This deal was originally published by Gabe Carey .
One of the biggest barriers to entry with VR has always been price .
Buying a headset was previously an expensive investment , especially considering that the technology was still rapidly evolving .
That ’ s started to change thanks to devices like the Oculus Quest 2 , which have a more entry-level price point .
Now , you can grab the Oculus Rift S for $ 300 , which is $ 100 off its @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2 , the Rift S is a wired headset that plugs into your PC .
That means that you ’ ll need to make sure you have a computer that can handle it first , If you do , $ 300 is a particularly strong value for what you ’ re getting .
The headset features a 2560×1440 screen with a refresh rate 80Hz .
It comes bundled with two Touch controllers , so you ’ ll have everything you need to get started in this package .
This deal was originally published @ @ @ @ @ @ @ loved ones are a great way to pass the time .
If you ’ re keeping your circle small or still sticking to those you co-habitat with I ’ m sure Netflix and Disney+ have been given a run for their money .
I ’ ve been looking into a projector because I ’ m lucky enough to have a backyard and have a roommate who thought setting up a project for our weekend hangs with the same five people we see might be cool .
The Bomaker Projector GC357 is just $ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ steal on it .
This wireless projector works with phones , computers/laptops , tablets , and more .
Get a screen up to 250 ' ’ in mere seconds to make your own personal theater .
With so many movie theaters still closed or going out of business this home system is a great way to keep the spirit alive .
Although this project is small that doesn ’ t interfere with its output .
High resolution that ’ s bright and brilliant is not an issue .
You can go wireless or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ supports gaming systems if you want to host your own Esports tournament .
Low noise and over 50,000 hours of lamp life makes this an amazing quality to value option .
This deal was originally published by Sheilah Villari .
Been waiting for the right moment to grab Assassin ’ s Creed Valhalla ?
Today might be the perfect time .
Amazon currently has the game down to $ 45 , which is the lowest price we ’ ve seen yet since its launch one month ago .
It ’ s been a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with new consoles and now Cyberpunk 2077 , but Valhalla is definitely worth checking out .
The latest installment of the Assassin ’ s Creed series casts you in the role of an Eivor , a ruthless Viking who ’ s all about chopping heads off .
Seriously , you will chop like a thousand heads off in this game .
It ’ s a lot of heads .
If that sounds exciting , then this is the game for you .
This deal was originally published by Giovanni Colantonio .
With the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , I ’ ve made my not-so triumphant return to the Crucible , the game ’ s PVP mode .
As it turns out , everyone has gotten better at the game , and I ’ ve gotten much worse .
If you want to raise your K/D ratio fast , here ’ s a tip : all you have to do is log into a match that I ’ m in and wait for me to shoot hand cannon shots 20 feet above your head , giving you ample time to one @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , it seems .
If you ’ re a PlayStation owner and you want in on this easy target practice , you ’ ll need to make sure you have PlayStation Plus , which allows you to play games like Destiny 2 online .
You can get a full year of Sony ’ s online service for $ 29 from Eneba , saving a little extra with the code DEC14P at checkout .
Make sure to wave emote at me before you embarrass me into orbit .
Disclaimer : While we ’ ve @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Eneba links in the past , note the redirection to EU region-locked products has since been resolved by our affiliate partners at Eneba and Awin .
This story was originally published by Giovanni Colantonio on 11/18/2020 and updated with new information on 12/14/2020 .
Make fun of UGG if you want but they ’ re having a bit of a moment and a resurgence .
Maybe Tom Brady was on to something ?
I ’ ve been a fan for years and I actually wear my classic II short boots just around my @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It ’ s like walking on a snuggly cloud .
That same quality and coziness translate to all of UGG ’ s line including their Classic Sherpa Throw Blankets .
Warmth and comfort are key with everything UGG makes .
These sherpa blankets are super soft and lavish .
There ’ s definitely a color in the collection that will blend with your decor .
These blankets will pop in any room be it on a bed or over a sofa .
Only the snow color isn ’ t discounted the $ 20 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ultimate comfort and will keep you toasty in these frigid months .
It ’ s easy to clean and can be tossed in the machine to wash .
This blanket is sizable at 70 '' W x 50 '' L and is 100 % polyester .
This is a great classy gift if you ’ re stumped on what to get a loved one .
Free shipping on all orders over $ 19 .
This deal was originally published by Sheilah Villari .
Teas the season !
If you ’ re like me @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the spring .
The kettle is the only way to go for an authentic sipping experience be it an afternoon brew or morning breakfast .
If you ’ re looking for a new one or are ready to make the jump from zapping water in the microwave this Secura Electric Kettle is for you .
Speed is key when it comes to your kettle and this one comes with a quick boil button and eight temperature settings .
It ’ ll also stay warm for up to four hours because of double-wall insulation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in these chilly months .
This kettle has over a seven cup capacity so it ’ s not just your tea that ’ ll benefit coffee , ramen , oatmeal , and whatever your thirsty/hungry heart craves .
Cool Touch tech ensures no one gets burned no matter how hot it gets on the inside .
FDA approved stainless steel , 100 % BPA-free , and easy to clean .
It ’ s durable and built to last guaranteed to warm you up for years to come .
If you ’ ve read @ @ @ @ @ @ @ before and you like what you ’ ve seen they offer a $ 5 monthly fee to get free shipping on all of your orders no matter how many .
Otherwise , it ’ s a flat rate of $ 8 .
This deal was originally published by Sheilah Villari .
Ulta ’ s exclusive Harry Potter products continue with these adorable bath kits that are just $ 26 .
Both celebrate the magic of the Yule Ball and are ideal gifts for a bewitching pal .
Each kit comes with body butter @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mask , and sleep mask .
There are just little differences in the two .
In the ‘ You ’ re Invited ’ box is sweet , calming , and raspberry scented .
Some real Hermione vibes and the pink sleep mask says Lumos , as you know to be the wand lighting charm .
In the ‘ A Night To Remember ’ box everything is milk and honey scented , so a little more subduded but just as soothng .
And this mask says Nox , which of course is the wand @ @ @ @ @ @ @ help a witch or wizard rest and recover after a very long year .
Free shipping on all orders over $ 35 .
This deal was originally published by Sheilah Villari .
Fun fact : The super-popular Benetint lip and cheek stain was created to help strippers tint their nipples before performing long before it became the beauty industry favorite it is now .
I personally love Benetint ( for my lips , ya perv ) but the price tag is kind of hefty at $ 25-30 .
Thankfully , I found a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ works just as well , and comes in three shades to boot— oh and it is only $ 5 a bottle right now .
The classic Benetint comes with a brush bottle that is a little unwieldy for those not used to it , but this Etude House Water Tint has a spongey-tip that is easier to use .
It comes in the shades “ Cherry Ade , ” “ Strawberry Ade , ” and “ Orange Ade.
” I personally have the cherry shade and love it , though the strawberry option @ @ @ @ @ @ @ too .
If you want to stock up , you can get a set of all three colors for $ 13 .
This deal was originally published by Elizabeth Lanier .
The holiday season doesn ’ t truly begin until you put on an ugly sweater .
I don ’ t make the rules , I just enforce them .
If you ’ ve yet to wear one this year , then the holidays basically haven ’ t even started .
If you ’ re looking to correct this as soon as possible @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sweaters on sale today only for $ 15 .
Nintendo fans can grab a Zelda sweater adorned with the Hylian shield , while Sony devotees can grab one that features the classic PS controller button layout ( sorry , Xbox fans , no Master Chief sweater here ) .
And of course , there ’ s a sweater featuring Baby Yoda .
Yes , I ’ m still calling him that and you can ’ t stop me .
Check these out and get your holiday look ironed out before it ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ published by Giovanni Colantonio .

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

Monday’s Best Deals | Kinja Deals
It’s December 14, and we at Kinja Deals are here to bring you the top 10 deals of the day. Escape the current doomsday with an Oculus Rift S, PlayStation Plus 12-month membership, and Assassin’s Creed Valhalla. Then bundle up and simmer down with an UGG’s throw blanket and a $29 electric tea kettle.
If you’re still craving more deals, take a peek at Monday’s best deals overall.
#1: Airpods 2
While they’re not as much of an upgrade to the original AirPods as their professional-grade counterpart, Apple’s second-generation AirPods improved upon the first in terms of connectivity and features, thanks to the proprietary H1 chip which not only doubled the speed in which the ‘phones can swap between devices but also added native Siri support and reduced the time spent pairing the AirPods to your iPhone when taking a phone call. For on-the-go gamers, latency dropped 30%.
Now the price is dropping, too, at least on Amazon. For a limited time, you can pop a pair of AirPods 2 in your ears for $49 off using the coupon listed on the page. Granted, this is the cheaper version of the AirPods 2, not the wireless charging model you might’ve seen before. That one is currently sold out on Amazon, though you could append a wireless charging case later for $69-$79 depending on whether it’s on sale or not (it is right now!). Cutting that lil’ coupon brings your checkout subtotal to $110, saving you 31%.
All that said, the sale-priced AirPods won’t be in stock until after Christmas, meaning your last-minute gift idea likely won’t make it under the tree. On the page, however, Amazon does suggest sending the recipient a gift card for an instant purchase if they don’t mind picking their gift off the doorstep in time for their first resolution-driven workout of the new year. In the meantime, set them up with an extra power brick for $17, so when the AirPods 2 do arrive, they’ll be able to power up both their phone and earbuds with the same charger.
This deal was originally published by Gabe Carey.
#2: Oculus rift s
One of the biggest barriers to entry with VR has always been price. Buying a headset was previously an expensive investment, especially considering that the technology was still rapidly evolving. That’s started to change thanks to devices like the Oculus Quest 2, which have a more entry-level price point. Now, you can grab the Oculus Rift S for $300, which is $100 off its original price point. Unlike the Quest 2, the Rift S is a wired headset that plugs into your PC. That means that you’ll need to make sure you have a computer that can handle it first, If you do, $300 is a particularly strong value for what you’re getting. The headset features a 2560×1440 screen with a refresh rate 80Hz. It comes bundled with two Touch controllers, so you’ll have everything you need to get started in this package.
This deal was originally published by Giovanni Colantonio.
#3: Bomaker projector gc357
Movie nights with loved ones are a great way to pass the time. If you’re keeping your circle small or still sticking to those you co-habitat with I’m sure Netflix and Disney+ have been given a run for their money. I’ve been looking into a projector because I’m lucky enough to have a backyard and have a roommate who thought setting up a project for our weekend hangs with the same five people we see might be cool. The Bomaker Projector GC357 is just $65 right now which is an absolute steal on it.
This wireless projector works with phones, computers/laptops, tablets, and more. Get a screen up to 250'’ in mere seconds to make your own personal theater. With so many movie theaters still closed or going out of business this home system is a great way to keep the spirit alive. Although this project is small that doesn’t interfere with its output. High resolution that’s bright and brilliant is not an issue. You can go wireless or wired with HDMI/VGA/USB/AV/SD ports. It even supports gaming systems if you want to host your own Esports tournament. Low noise and over 50,000 hours of lamp life makes this an amazing quality to value option.
Free one-day shipping for Prime members.
This deal was originally published by Sheilah Villari.
#4: Assassin’s creed valhalla
Been waiting for the right moment to grab Assassin’s Creed Valhalla? Today might be the perfect time. Amazon currently has the game down to $45, which is the lowest price we’ve seen yet since its launch one month ago. It’s been a very busy month considering all the hubbub with new consoles and now Cyberpunk 2077, but Valhalla is definitely worth checking out. The latest installment of the Assassin’s Creed series casts you in the role of an Eivor, a ruthless Viking who’s all about chopping heads off. Seriously, you will chop like a thousand heads off in this game. It’s a lot of heads. If that sounds exciting, then this is the game for you.
This deal was originally published by Giovanni Colantonio.
#5: PlayStation plus
With the launch of Destiny 2: Beyond Light, I’ve made my not-so triumphant return to the Crucible, the game’s PVP mode. As it turns out, everyone has gotten better at the game, and I’ve gotten much worse. If you want to raise your K/D ratio fast, here’s a tip: all you have to do is log into a match that I’m in and wait for me to shoot hand cannon shots 20 feet above your head, giving you ample time to one shot me with just about any weapon, it seems. If you’re a PlayStation owner and you want in on this easy target practice, you’ll need to make sure you have PlayStation Plus, which allows you to play games like Destiny 2 online. You can get a full year of Sony’s online service for $29 from Eneba, saving a little extra with the code DEC14P at checkout. Make sure to wave emote at me before you embarrass me into orbit.
Disclaimer: While we’ve heard your complaints about our use of Eneba links in the past, note the redirection to EU region-locked products has since been resolved by our affiliate partners at Eneba and Awin.
This story was originally published by Giovanni Colantonio on 11/18/2020 and updated with new information on 12/14/2020.
#6: Ugg throw blanket
Make fun of UGG if you want but they’re having a bit of a moment and a resurgence. Maybe Tom Brady was on to something? I’ve been a fan for years and I actually wear my classic II short boots just around my apartment because they are so warm. It’s like walking on a snuggly cloud. That same quality and coziness translate to all of UGG’s line including their Classic Sherpa Throw Blankets.
Warmth and comfort are key with everything UGG makes. These sherpa blankets are super soft and lavish. There’s definitely a color in the collection that will blend with your decor. These blankets will pop in any room be it on a bed or over a sofa. Only the snow color isn’t discounted the $20. The plush sherpa material provides the ultimate comfort and will keep you toasty in these frigid months. It’s easy to clean and can be tossed in the machine to wash. This blanket is sizable at 70" W x 50" L and is 100% polyester. This is a great classy gift if you’re stumped on what to get a loved one.
Free shipping on all orders over $19.
This deal was originally published by Sheilah Villari.
#7: electric kettle
Teas the season! If you’re like me you live on tea from now until the spring. The kettle is the only way to go for an authentic sipping experience be it an afternoon brew or morning breakfast. If you’re looking for a new one or are ready to make the jump from zapping water in the microwave this Secura Electric Kettle is for you.
Speed is key when it comes to your kettle and this one comes with a quick boil button and eight temperature settings. It’ll also stay warm for up to four hours because of double-wall insulation which is really a thing of beauty in these chilly months. This kettle has over a seven cup capacity so it’s not just your tea that’ll benefit coffee, ramen, oatmeal, and whatever your thirsty/hungry heart craves. Cool Touch tech ensures no one gets burned no matter how hot it gets on the inside. FDA approved stainless steel, 100% BPA-free, and easy to clean. It’s durable and built to last guaranteed to warm you up for years to come.
If you’ve read a few of our pieces on MorningSave before and you like what you’ve seen they offer a $5 monthly fee to get free shipping on all of your orders no matter how many. Otherwise, it’s a flat rate of $8.
This deal was originally published by Sheilah Villari.
#8: harry potter bath kit
Ulta’s exclusive Harry Potter products continue with these adorable bath kits that are just $26. Both celebrate the magic of the Yule Ball and are ideal gifts for a bewitching pal. Each kit comes with body butter, shimmer bath salts, overnight lip mask, and sleep mask. There are just little differences in the two.
In the ‘You’re Invited’ box is sweet, calming, and raspberry scented. Some real Hermione vibes and the pink sleep mask says Lumos, as you know to be the wand lighting charm. In the ‘A Night To Remember’ box everything is milk and honey scented, so a little more subduded but just as soothng. And this mask says Nox, which of course is the wand extinguishing charm. Both are great to help a witch or wizard rest and recover after a very long year.
Free shipping on all orders over $35.
This deal was originally published by Sheilah Villari.
#9: Etude lip tint
Fun fact: The super-popular Benetint lip and cheek stain was created to help strippers tint their nipples before performing long before it became the beauty industry favorite it is now.
I personally love Benetint (for my lips, ya perv) but the price tag is kind of hefty at $25-30. Thankfully, I found a K-beauty dupe on Amazon that I think works just as well, and comes in three shades to boot— oh and it is only $5 a bottle right now.
The classic Benetint comes with a brush bottle that is a little unwieldy for those not used to it, but this Etude House Water Tint has a spongey-tip that is easier to use. It comes in the shades “Cherry Ade,” “Strawberry Ade,” and “Orange Ade.” I personally have the cherry shade and love it, though the strawberry option’s berry tones look super flattering too.
If you want to stock up, you can get a set of all three colors for $13.
This deal was originally published by Elizabeth Lanier.
#10: Gamestop sweaters
The holiday season doesn’t truly begin until you put on an ugly sweater. I don’t make the rules, I just enforce them. If you’ve yet to wear one this year, then the holidays basically haven’t even started. If you’re looking to correct this as soon as possible, GameStop has a trio of holiday sweaters on sale today only for $15. Nintendo fans can grab a Zelda sweater adorned with the Hylian shield, while Sony devotees can grab one that features the classic PS controller button layout (sorry, Xbox fans, no Master Chief sweater here). And of course, there’s a sweater featuring Baby Yoda. Yes, I’m still calling him that and you can’t stop me. Check these out and get your holiday look ironed out before it’s too late.
This deal was originally published by Giovanni Colantonio.


theroot--2020-12-14--Trump Tells Allies He Will Run in 2024. Also Notes: You Know I Stay Lying

The president of people hoping to storm the Electoral College , which is right next to Trump University , has been telling allies that he plans to run again in 2024—and then adds that he may back out , but still fuck with me like I ’ m running because I love attention .
According to Politico , the president has been fielding phone calls with those closest to him and floating the idea of running for president again , but has added that in two years , if it looks like he ’ s a long shot , he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ t take being a loser although he ’ s been one most of his life .
Trump is basically full of shit .
He likes the idea of kicking a campaign around because it drums up interest and attention around him .
Just like his first campaign , if it looks like he can drum up serious interest around his bid then he may actually run .
Politico suggests even that might not be enough though , as the president doesn ’ t want to show that Russia has been Cashapp-ing him money @ @ @ @ @ @ @ He ain ’ t ever going to show his “ financial disclosure forms , ” or his taxes .
He doesn ’ t want to do the hard work of building a campaign infrastructure , all to lose again .
But for two years , Trump can keep all those Midwestern and Southern voters salivating around their falsies at the idea of another series of racist pep rallies and nicknames for Congress members , which in Trumplandia serves as a push to the White House .
Politico believes that as long as the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ run for office , he can parlay that into money for his businesses and that can help pay off the mountain of debt that ’ s coming due in the next few years .
“ Trump has probably no idea if he will actually run , but because he only cares about himself and his association with the party has only been about his ambitions rather than what it stands for , he will try to freeze the field and keep as many people on the sidelines , ” said a former White @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sake of keeping his options open and , yes , keeping the attention all for himself.
” This White House aide makes it sound as if soon-to-be former President Trump is going to use the allure of the office for his own personal gain by teasing out a run for the White House to keep the focus on himself so that he may profit off the idea while keeping possible Republican presidential nominees at bay until he decides what he wants to do .
The president isn ’ t that sinister , is @ @

The president of people hoping to storm the Electoral College, which is right next to Trump University, has been telling allies that he plans to run again in 2024—and then adds that he may back out, but still fuck with me like I’m running because I love attention.
According to Politico, the president has been fielding phone calls with those closest to him and floating the idea of running for president again, but has added that in two years, if it looks like he’s a long shot, he will back out because he can’t take being a loser although he’s been one most of his life.
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Trump is basically full of shit. He likes the idea of kicking a campaign around because it drums up interest and attention around him. Just like his first campaign, if it looks like he can drum up serious interest around his bid then he may actually run.
Politico suggests even that might not be enough though, as the president doesn’t want to show that Russia has been Cashapp-ing him money in exchange for services to come. He ain’t ever going to show his “financial disclosure forms,” or his taxes. He doesn’t want to do the hard work of building a campaign infrastructure, all to lose again. But for two years, Trump can keep all those Midwestern and Southern voters salivating around their falsies at the idea of another series of racist pep rallies and nicknames for Congress members, which in Trumplandia serves as a push to the White House.
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Politico believes that as long as the president gets the attention of a possible run for office, he can parlay that into money for his businesses and that can help pay off the mountain of debt that’s coming due in the next few years.
“Trump has probably no idea if he will actually run, but because he only cares about himself and his association with the party has only been about his ambitions rather than what it stands for, he will try to freeze the field and keep as many people on the sidelines,” said a former White House aide. “Just for the sake of keeping his options open and, yes, keeping the attention all for himself.”
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This White House aide makes it sound as if soon-to-be former President Trump is going to use the allure of the office for his own personal gain by teasing out a run for the White House to keep the focus on himself so that he may profit off the idea while keeping possible Republican presidential nominees at bay until he decides what he wants to do. The president isn’t that sinister, is he?
Don’t answer that.


theroot--2020-12-14--‘Credible Threats of Violence’ Resulted in Michigan Closing Its Legislative Offices Ahead of Elector

‘Credible Threats of Violence’ Resulted in Michigan Closing Its Legislative Offices Ahead of Electoral College Vote

Before Michigan ’ s electors voted to certify President-Elect Joe Biden ’ s electoral win , the threat of violence resulted in all legislative offices being closed in the state .
Michigan , sadly , is no stranger to ( probably ) white folks who ’ ve lost their goddamn mind because reality hasn ’ t aligned with their expectations .
Earlier this year , a group of far-right , um , activists ?
No , that ’ s not right .
Assholes ?
Actually .
Yeah .
Let ’ s go with that .
Earlier this year , a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Capitol armed with guns because they had to wear masks and couldn ’ t go to Applebees .
Later , a sub-group of those assholes plotted to kidnap the governor because takeout just wasn ’ t enough .
Now , according to the Washington Post , violent threats have resulted in every legislative office in the state being closed .
Amber McCann , a spokesperson for Michigan Senate Majority Leader Mike Shirkey ( R ) , told the Post that the closures were due not to “ anticipated protests ” but due to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , there haven ’ t been any details as to who made the threat or what the threat entailed but come on now .
We ’ re adults here .
We can put two and two together .
Why would the winning party threaten to derail the process ?
Typically , the process of certifying the president-elect is an event that happens in the background .
In “ normal ” times , we usually find out who won shortly after the election and then let the process play out as we look forward @ @ @ @ @ @ @ games , and whatever Christmas blockbuster is set to take theaters .
Of course , this is no ordinary year and this has been far from an ordinary presidency .
In the wake of his election loss , the sitting president has done what he does best : lie and throw a temper tantrum like a 2-year-old hearing the word “ no ” for the first time .
He and his ragtag band of sycophants have worked their asses off to undermine faith in the election .
They ’ ve made baseless claims @ @ @ @ @ @ @ large-scale conspiracy , alleged that so many dead people voted you ’ d think COVID was the T-Virus , and filed so many frivolous lawsuits that the judges ’ rulings could almost constitute as the second Comedy Central Roast of Donald Trump by how hard they dunked on this man .
The sad thing is , it all kind of worked .
Not in overturning the election , but in undermining people ’ s faith in the process .
A sizable number of Republicans don ’ t believe that the election was safe @ @ @ @ @ @ @ legitimately elected .
The fact that Michigan has had to close down all of its legislative offices and not simply the capitol building , where the vote is being held , goes to show just how strong the Kool-Aid is .
I mean , really let that sit with you for a moment .
Folks are willing to commit domestic terrorism for this man : Michigan ’ s 16 Democratic electors , which included a middle-school history teacher and a 96-year-old retiree , voted on Monday to confirm Joe Biden as their state @ @ @ @ @ @ @ shoutout to all the Republican lawmakers who went along with this embarrassing charade .
What better way to uphold democracy than by attempting to undermine it completely and placing your peers at risk in the process ?

Before Michigan’s electors voted to certify President-Elect Joe Biden’s electoral win, the threat of violence resulted in all legislative offices being closed in the state.
Michigan, sadly, is no stranger to (probably) white folks who’ve lost their goddamn mind because reality hasn’t aligned with their expectations. Earlier this year, a group of far-right, um, activists? No, that’s not right.
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Protesters? Mmm, nah.
Assholes? Actually. Yeah. Let’s go with that.
Earlier this year, a group of far-right assholes stormed the state Capitol armed with guns because they had to wear masks and couldn’t go to Applebees. Later, a sub-group of those assholes plotted to kidnap the governor because takeout just wasn’t enough.
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Now, according to the Washington Post, violent threats have resulted in every legislative office in the state being closed. Amber McCann, a spokesperson for Michigan Senate Majority Leader Mike Shirkey (R), told the Post that the closures were due not to “anticipated protests” but due to “credible threats of violence.”
Now, there haven’t been any details as to who made the threat or what the threat entailed but come on now. We’re adults here. We can put two and two together. Why would the winning party threaten to derail the process?
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Typically, the process of certifying the president-elect is an event that happens in the background. In “normal” times, we usually find out who won shortly after the election and then let the process play out as we look forward to the holidays, the hot new games, and whatever Christmas blockbuster is set to take theaters.
Of course, this is no ordinary year and this has been far from an ordinary presidency. In the wake of his election loss, the sitting president has done what he does best: lie and throw a temper tantrum like a 2-year-old hearing the word “no” for the first time.
Advertisement
He and his ragtag band of sycophants have worked their asses off to undermine faith in the election. They’ve made baseless claims about mail-in voting being apart of some large-scale conspiracy, alleged that so many dead people voted you’d think COVID was the T-Virus, and filed so many frivolous lawsuits that the judges’ rulings could almost constitute as the second Comedy Central Roast of Donald Trump by how hard they dunked on this man.
The sad thing is, it all kind of worked.
Not in overturning the election, but in undermining people’s faith in the process. A sizable number of Republicans don’t believe that the election was safe and secure or that Joe Biden was legitimately elected. The fact that Michigan has had to close down all of its legislative offices and not simply the capitol building, where the vote is being held, goes to show just how strong the Kool-Aid is.
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I mean, really let that sit with you for a moment. Folks are willing to commit domestic terrorism for this man:
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Michigan’s 16 Democratic electors, which included a middle-school history teacher and a 96-year-old retiree, voted on Monday to confirm Joe Biden as their state’s choice as president.
So shoutout to all the Republican lawmakers who went along with this embarrassing charade. What better way to uphold democracy than by attempting to undermine it completely and placing your peers at risk in the process?


theroot--2020-12-14--These Harry Potter Bath Kits Are the Perfect Gift for a Stressed Witch or Wizard

Whether you 're celebrating with your loved ones in person or from a distance , The Inventory staff is dedicated to spreading holiday cheer with the top gifts to ring in the season—and maybe a few good deals to snatch up for yourself .
It 's okay , your secret 's safe with us .
Ulta ’ s exclusive Harry Potter products continue with these adorable bath kits that are just $ 26 .
Both celebrate the magic of the Yule Ball and are ideal gifts for a bewitching pal .
Each kit comes with b ody butter , s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lip mask , and sleep mask .
There are just little differences in the two .
In the ‘ You ’ re Invited ’ box is sweet , calming , and raspberry scented .
Some real Hermione vibes and the pink sleep mask says Lumos , as you know to be the wand lighting charm .
In the ‘ A Night To Remember ’ box everything is milk and honey scented , so a little more subduded but just as soothng .
And this mask says Nox , which of course is the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are great to help a witch or wizard rest and recover after a very long year .
Free shipping on all orders over $ 35 .

Sheilah Villari on Kinja Deals, shared by Ignacia to The Root

Harry Potter Bath Kits | $26 | Ulta
Ulta’s exclusive Harry Potter products continue with these adorable bath kits that are just $26. Both celebrate the magic of the Yule Ball and are ideal gifts for a bewitching pal . Each kit comes with b ody butter, s himmer b ath s alts, overnight lip mask, and sleep mask. There are just little differences in the two .
In the ‘You’re Invited’ box is sweet, calming, and raspberry scented. Some real Hermione vibes and the pink sleep mask says Lumos, as you know to be the wand lighting charm. In the ‘A Night To Remember’ box everything is milk and honey scented, so a little more subduded but just as soothng. And this mask says Nox, which of course is the w and e xtinguishing charm. Both are great to help a witch or wizard rest and recover after a very long year.
Free shipping on all orders over $35.