theroot--2020-11-20--Wrapping Paper Roll Call: To Market, to Market

OK , k ids—we ’ re now officially five weeks out from Christmas—and only a week from Black Friday ( or , as we ’ ll be calling it here at The Glow Up , the Blackest Friday ) .
But the pre-deals are already out there and in full effect as TGU rolls out our Wrapping Roll Call—our running list of our favorite Black vendors to visit this and every season ( conveniently arranged by theme ) .
Speaking of visits , traveling is one of our favorite pastimes—and something none of us are doing much of these days @ @ @ @ @ @ @ literally gathering dust ) .
Aside from seeing new places and cultures , we love hitting a marketplace or boutique in a far-flung locale and stumbling upon incredible finds that we—or a lucky recipient—can treasure forever .
But just because we ’ re grounded for the time being doesn ’ t mean we can ’ t still shop the world—or the universe that comprises our own neighborhoods and cities , thanks to a number of Black entrepreneurs who ’ ve thoughtfully curated their selections to make an impact , locally and globally .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ a Chicago-based digital marketplace that features a tightly curated collection of sustainable and handmade , ethically-sourced apparel and accessories from around the globe ( heavily featuring African countries and Black artisans ) .
“ Love Dot was a platform that was really designed for women like me , ” says founder Nneka Ude .
“ [ They ] have a different flair and want to discover things that are part of how they live , and a huge part of how they live is travel—connecting the culture , this ability to be able @ @ @ @ @ @ @ what is unique and what is actually coming from different parts of the world that we are exploring and love.
” The scope may be global , but the inspiration is deeply personal ; Ude named the company for her late mother Dorothy .
“ Love Dot is meant to reflect all the places in the world that ‘ Dot ’ would have loved to experience but didn ’ t have the time to , ” before cancer claimed her life in 2016 , Ude ’ s site explains .
And as COVID-19 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ abroad , Ude recognizes new purpose in her growing enterprise .
“ So many people want to be able to have items that have a story to tell behind them ... and , you know , wouldn ’ t mind being able to also reach across to the diaspora to support brands and individuals , ” she says .
“ And so for me , the international part is just playing the role that we ’ re meant to play .
This world is super-small ; everything that we purchase right now , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ markets , whether we recognize it or not ... Why not really think about how can we make sure that our dollars have an impact ?
“ How do we move away from the things that are actually killing our wallets and also killing the Earth and killing local economies to be able to reverse that equation and start to support growth in different markets ?
” Ude continues .
“ Really buying and investing in high-quality items that aren ’ t just stylish and one of a kind but also to go @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people and really driving people out of poverty and really elevating narratives around what fashion really is and what it looks like and what that talent looks like in different places ?
Love Dot offers handmade apparel and accessories ( including its own collaborative label ) .
In celebration of our recent election , is offering 25 percent off the entire site through January 20 , 2021 , with the code “ KAMALA.
” What other digital marketplaces have got the goods worth giving this ( and every season ) ?
If you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ doubt you ’ re already familiar with the seemingly endless array of African brands making accessible apparel , home goods , accessories , art and more .
Honestly , it can get a little overwhelming , but we love the fact that these vendors span the continent—and if you ’ re a one-stop shopper , you will likely find something for everyone on your list .
In fact , most things are so well-priced , you can afford to gift yourself , too .
If birds of a feather flock together , it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in love with one of the incredible feathered statement pieces Kabria Cummings imports for Global Attic while she ’ d set up shop next to Love Dot at a female vendor co-op in Chicago .
Like Love Dot ’ s Ude , Cummings created her global brand as tribute to her art and interiors-loving parents—and we ’ re now the proud owners of a growing collection of her gorgeous wares .
Thankfully , you don ’ t need to be a Chicagoan to procure one of the online boutique ’ s “ exotic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Cummings ships throughout the United States , kindly including convenient stands to showcase your finds .
This weekend only , save 20 percent off Global Attic ’ s Thankful collection with the code “ THANKFUL20.
” Likewise , Elysia Kaiem was inspired by her enterprising late grandmother and mother to launch her eponymous brand , where her “ mission is to provide innovative , high quality products made in Africa.
” Her offerings include home goods , accessories and even personal care products , each brand carefully selected for quality and infused with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ t miss out on Kaiem ’ s discounted bundles ) .
Want to make a sustainable and socially responsible impact , as well as a cultural one ?
Mandika Home is proudly “ in , by , and for Africa , ” working exclusively with local artisans to bolster their communities through fair trade .
The products they produce for the home are as beautiful as the mission , meaning you will truly get as good as you give .
Sometimes , philanthropy begins at home—and let ’ s face it , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ itself , its culture proudly influenced from those who have migrated there from around the globe .
That ’ s why we ’ re low-key obsessed with this Harlem , N.Y.-based gift shop “ promoting local makers , featuring a curated selection of special and meaningful pieces to gift and to keep.
” Floral designer turned shop owner Katrina Parris and husband Mark Pinn ’ s impeccable taste , cultural pride and community ethos are evident throughout Nilu ’ s offerings , with special attention paid to Black makers , making this one @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Across New York ’ s East River , Peace & Riot makes some noise in Brooklyn , fusing the African and Caribbean heritages of borough native Achuziam Maha-Sanchez and her Bronx-born husband Lionel Sanchez to offer a delightful and impeccably curated selection of home decor , gifts and accessories at a range of price point .
In fact , there ’ s so much to love from this little shop , you may forget you ’ re shopping for someone else .
Souk Bō ’ hēmian is as exotic and eclectic as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ make you feel a little more glamorous and worldly .
Best friends Morgan Ashley and Vanessa Coore Vernon launched the online boutique as part of The Bō ’ hēmian Brands , a celebration of the intersection of all things brown and—you guessed it—bohemian .
“ In all that Souk Bō ’ hēmian does , our goal is to introduce new and different cultures to our community , ” the duo says—and their array of offerings for home , body , mind and spirit is so special , you ’ ll want all the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The Folklore when Taylor Swift accidentally overstepped with her most recent record merch ( which she quickly sought to resolve ) , but we keep returning to gawk the gorgeous designer clothing from Africa and the diaspora expertly selected by founder Amira Rasool .
With a new partnership with Farfetch , the brand may be on the verge of going mainstream—but for the high fashion lover , The Folklore remains a truly special experience .
This Chicago staple didn ’ t get to host its legendary block party this year , but The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , offering its ever-intelligent , unapologetically quirky and extra-Black aesthetic to all who enter—even virtually .
“ We are the intersection of art , community , and culture , ” the store ’ s site reads .
“ Here , we value and encourage opportunities to bring elements and artifacts from around the world to your front stoop ” —so much so , you can safely shop in 3D this year .

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

OK , k ids—we’re now officially five weeks out from Christmas—and only a week from Black Friday (or, as we’ll be calling it here at The Glow Up, the Blackest Friday). But the pre-deals are already out there and in full effect as TGU rolls out our Wrapping Roll Call—our running list of our favorite Black vendors to visit this and every season (conveniently arranged by theme).
Speaking of visits, traveling is one of our favorite pastimes—and something none of us are doing much of these days (our poor passports and suitcases are literally gathering dust). Aside from seeing new places and cultures, we love hitting a marketplace or boutique in a far-flung locale and stumbling upon incredible finds that we—or a lucky recipient—can treasure forever. But just because we’re grounded for the time being doesn’t mean we can’t still shop the world—or the universe that comprises our own neighborhoods and cities, thanks to a number of Black entrepreneurs who’ve thoughtfully curated their selections to make an impact, locally and globally.
Advertisement
One such retailer is Love Dot, a Chicago-based digital marketplace that features a tightly curated collection of sustainable and handmade, ethically-sourced apparel and accessories from around the globe (heavily featuring African countries and Black artisans).
“Love Dot was a platform that was really designed for women like me,” says founder Nneka Ude. “[They] have a different flair and want to discover things that are part of how they live, and a huge part of how they live is travel—connecting the culture, this ability to be able to support and expand the definition of what is unique and what is actually coming from different parts of the world that we are exploring and love.”
Advertisement Advertisement
The scope may be global, but the inspiration is deeply personal; Ude named the company for her late mother Dorothy. “Love Dot is meant to reflect all the places in the world that ‘Dot’ would have loved to experience but didn’t have the time to,” before cancer claimed her life in 2016, Ude’s site explains. And as COVID-19 is affecting economies—and especially entrepreneurs—at home and abroad, Ude recognizes new purpose in her growing enterprise.
Advertisement
“So many people want to be able to have items that have a story to tell behind them...and, you know, wouldn’t mind being able to also reach across to the diaspora to support brands and individuals,” she says. “And so for me, the international part is just playing the role that we’re meant to play. This world is super-small; everything that we purchase right now, it’s essentially purchased from global markets, whether we recognize it or not...Why not really think about how can we make sure that our dollars have an impact?
“How do we move away from the things that are actually killing our wallets and also killing the Earth and killing local economies to be able to reverse that equation and start to support growth in different markets?” Ude continues. “Really buying and investing in high-quality items that aren’t just stylish and one of a kind but also to go a long way toward supporting families and people and really driving people out of poverty and really elevating narratives around what fashion really is and what it looks like and what that talent looks like in different places?
Advertisement
Love Dot offers handmade apparel and accessories (including its own collaborative label). In celebration of our recent election, is offering 25 percent off the entire site through January 20, 2021, with the code “KAMALA.”
What other digital marketplaces have got the goods worth giving this (and every season)?
Advertisement
If you love wax prints and mudcloth, no doubt you’re already familiar with the seemingly endless array of African brands making accessible apparel, home goods, accessories, art and more. Honestly, it can get a little overwhelming, but we love the fact that these vendors span the continent—and if you’re a one-stop shopper, you will likely find something for everyone on your list. In fact, most things are so well-priced, you can afford to gift yourself, too.
Advertisement
If birds of a feather flock together, it’s no wonder we first fell in love with one of the incredible feathered statement pieces Kabria Cummings imports for Global Attic while she’d set up shop next to Love Dot at a female vendor co-op in Chicago. Like Love Dot’s Ude, Cummings created her global brand as tribute to her art and interiors-loving parents—and we’re now the proud owners of a growing collection of her gorgeous wares. Thankfully, you don’t need to be a Chicagoan to procure one of the online boutique’s “exotic treasures from around the world”; Cummings ships throughout the United States, kindly including convenient stands to showcase your finds. This weekend only, save 20 percent off Global Attic’s Thankful collection with the code “THANKFUL20.”
Advertisement
Likewise, Elysia Kaiem was inspired by her enterprising late grandmother and mother to launch her eponymous brand, where her “mission is to provide innovative, high quality products made in Africa.” Her offerings include home goods, accessories and even personal care products, each brand carefully selected for quality and infused with reverence for the continent (and don’t miss out on Kaiem’s discounted bundles).
Advertisement
Want to make a sustainable and socially responsible impact, as well as a cultural one? Mandika Home is proudly “in, by, and for Africa,” working exclusively with local artisans to bolster their communities through fair trade. The products they produce for the home are as beautiful as the mission, meaning you will truly get as good as you give.
Advertisement
Sometimes, philanthropy begins at home—and let’s face it, New York City is a world unto itself, its culture proudly influenced from those who have migrated there from around the globe. That’s why we’re low-key obsessed with this Harlem, N.Y.-based gift shop “promoting local makers, featuring a curated selection of special and meaningful pieces to gift and to keep.” Floral designer turned shop owner Katrina Parris and husband Mark Pinn’s impeccable taste, cultural pride and community ethos are evident throughout Nilu’s offerings, with special attention paid to Black makers, making this one of our favorite spots to shop year-round.
Across New York’s East River, Peace & Riot makes some noise in Brooklyn, fusing the African and Caribbean heritages of borough native Achuziam Maha-Sanchez and her Bronx-born husband Lionel Sanchez to offer a delightful and impeccably curated selection of home decor, gifts and accessories at a range of price point. In fact, there’s so much to love from this little shop, you may forget you’re shopping for someone else.
Advertisement
Souk Bō’hēmian is as exotic and eclectic as it sounds—just looking at their site might make you feel a little more glamorous and worldly. Best friends Morgan Ashley and Vanessa Coore Vernon launched the online boutique as part of The Bō’hēmian Brands, a celebration of the intersection of all things brown and—you guessed it—bohemian. “In all that Souk Bō’hēmian does, our goal is to introduce new and different cultures to our community,” the duo says—and their array of offerings for home, body, mind and spirit is so special, you’ll want all the things.
Advertisement
We first caught wind of The Folklore when Taylor Swift accidentally overstepped with her most recent record merch (which she quickly sought to resolve), but we keep returning to gawk the gorgeous designer clothing from Africa and the diaspora expertly selected by founder Amira Rasool. With a new partnership with Farfetch, the brand may be on the verge of going mainstream—but for the high fashion lover, The Folklore remains a truly special experience.
Advertisement
This Chicago staple didn’t get to host its legendary block party this year, but The Silver Room is still open for business, offering its ever-intelligent, unapologetically quirky and extra-Black aesthetic to all who enter—even virtually. “We are the intersection of art, community, and culture,” the store’s site reads. “Here, we value and encourage opportunities to bring elements and artifacts from around the world to your front stoop”—so much so, you can safely shop in 3D this year.


theroot--2020-11-20--Groundbreaking Superhero Show Black Lightning to End After 4th Season

All good things come to an end , they say , and it looks like it ’ s Black Lightning ’ s turn to fade into the night .
The CW confirmed via press release Friday that the show—which was the first DC superhero series with a Black lead—will end after its upcoming fourth season , which will premiere early next year .
Based on the DC character of the same name , Black Lightning told the story of Jefferson Pierce ( played by Cress Williams ) , a high school principal , former Olympic athlete and father of two @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and harness electricity to protect his hometown of Freeland .
As it turns out , Pierce ’ s daughters also have uncanny , superhuman abilities—making for some complicated family dynamics .
“ When we first started the Black Lighting journey , I knew that Jefferson Pierce and his family of powerful Black women would be a unique addition to the superhero genre , ” series developer and executive producer Salim Akil said in a statement .
“ The love that Blerds and all comic book fans around the globe have shown this series @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we imagined , Black people want to see themselves in all their complexities.
” Akil also thanked the “ phenomenal ” cast , writers and crew of the groundbreaking series .
“ I ’ m incredibly proud of the work we ’ ve been able to do and the moments we ’ ve been able to create in bringing DC ’ s first African-American family of superheroes to life for the culture.
” Fans of the show need not despair after the series finale , however .
A spinoff series , Painkiller , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by Salim Akil , will air its pilot episode during the final season of Black Lightning .
Starring in the new series will be the horrendously good-looking Jordan Calloway , a man whose jawline is so sharp you could carve a Thanksgiving turkey with it—which has to be its own sort of superhuman gift .

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

All good things come to an end, they say, and it looks like it’s Black Lightning’s turn to fade into the night.
The CW confirmed via press release Friday that the show—which was the first DC superhero series with a Black lead—will end after its upcoming fourth season, which will premiere early next year.
Advertisement
Based on the DC character of the same name, Black Lightning told the story of Jefferson Pierce (played by Cress Williams), a high school principal, former Olympic athlete and father of two who uses his supernatural abilities to sense and harness electricity to protect his hometown of Freeland. As it turns out, Pierce’s daughters also have uncanny, superhuman abilities—making for some complicated family dynamics.
“When we first started the Black Lighting journey, I knew that Jefferson Pierce and his family of powerful Black women would be a unique addition to the superhero genre,” series developer and executive producer Salim Akil said in a statement. “The love that Blerds and all comic book fans around the globe have shown this series over the past three seasons proved what we imagined, Black people want to see themselves in all their complexities.”
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Akil also thanked the “phenomenal” cast, writers and crew of the groundbreaking series.
“I’m incredibly proud of the work we’ve been able to do and the moments we’ve been able to create in bringing DC’s first African-American family of superheroes to life for the culture.”
Advertisement
Fans of the show need not despair after the series finale, however. A spinoff series, Painkiller, also directed, written and executive produced by Salim Akil, will air its pilot episode during the final season of Black Lightning. Starring in the new series will be the horrendously good-looking Jordan Calloway, a man whose jawline is so sharp you could carve a Thanksgiving turkey with it—which has to be its own sort of superhuman gift.


theroot--2020-11-20--Auntie Unfiltered Chats With the Ladies of En Vogue

I am about to date myself with this one .
in 1990 , I was living in the dorms on the campus of San Jose State University when one of the girls on my floor produced a tape of some sisters singing the types of harmonies that make you grab your hairbrush , stand in the mirror and belt out their songs as you silently wished you too were a member of that group .
“ Hold On ” was our fucking jam , bitch , and we wore the whole floor out with it .
We would set up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we took our showers , and we played it back-to-back so much the RA told us that other people had complained .
We didn ’ t care ; we kept playing it , because baby ?
These ladies were born to sing .
Yes , you see what I did there .
En Vogue blasted on the scene with that first single , and they have had our attention ever since .
Their voices have graced soundtracks , given us anthems , and made us want to be funky divas all at the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ opportunity to speak with the ladies , who will be celebrated with the Urban Music Icon award at the 2020 Black Music Honors , which will air Nov. 21 through Dec. 13 in national syndication ( check your local listings ) , as well as on Bounce TV Saturday , Nov. 21 at noon ET .
We had a great time discussing their music and legacy , and we played Black Ass Game !
Find out what they like on their grits , whether or not they use Lawry ’ s seasoned salt @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , which joker they think is the big joker , and much more in this fun-filled episode of Auntie Unfiltered .
As always , I want to hear from you .
If you have questions , comments , concerns ; if you need advice , or if you have a topic you think I should discuss , hit me up at AuntieSubmissions @ theroot.com , and I ’ ll see y ’ all next week .

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Black News and Black Views with a Whole Lotta Attitude


theroot--2020-11-20--So Basically Every Game Is on Sale in This Week’s Good-Ass Games at Good-Ass Prices

Trying to make this week ’ s list was a lot , y ’ all .
As a result of the pandemic making it wildly irresponsible to gather in our yearly show of mass consumerism , most Black Friday deals have already gone live .
I don ’ t have nearly the space to go through all the bangers on sale right now , so I ’ m going to get to the shits .
You know , if I knew this was going to be on sale this month I probably wouldn ’ t have bought it at launch @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ t regret my purchase as Watch Dogs : Legion is one of the more interesting games I ’ ve played this year .
It ’ s almost like a big-budget procedurally generated game .
There is no singular protagonist , instead , you can control virtually anyone in the game by recruiting them to your hacktivist collective , DedSec .
It doesn ’ t always net the most engaging results but this game is fascinating when all the pieces come together .
Recruiting a construction worker so you can discreetly sneak onto @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , surprisingly , mad satisfying .
This is by far one of the more experimental games to come out at its price point this year and I have to commend it for the risks it took .
The Watch Dogs games continue to have such a unique , puzzle-based approach on the open-world game and I definitely recommend giving this one a look .
If you , like me , left the Jeezy/Gucci Verzuz with an intense desire to beat a nigga ’ s ass , why not try Tekken instead ?
You @ @ @ @ @ @ @ without ever catching a case .
Tekken 7 has quietly maintained its dominance as the premier fighting game of the current generation and for good reason .
Once you experience some Good Ass Tekken , there really isn ’ t any going back .
The ultimate edition nets you the first two season passes , which include multiple stages and additional characters .
Tekken is the definition of easy to learn , hard to master , but training modules added to the game help make it more approachable for newcomers .
The regular @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 100 bucks , so it ’ s a pretty solid discount in my opinion .
The sheer amount of game you get here is an unbelievable steal .
For only 20 bucks more than the recently released Valhalla ’ s base price , you get both Origins and Odyssey .
Each game easily has over 100+ hours of content , so you will be set for a minute if you happen to cop this .
I haven ’ t played Valhalla , yet , but the reviews have been excellent and one of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ describes it as “ a more violent Settlers of Catan , ” which , to my board game- loving ass , sounds like a great time .
Also , all three games are optimized for the Series X , so if you happen to have the new console or intend to cop one in the coming months , you ’ ll already have a few bangers on the ready .
I feel like there is still a lot of residual side-eye given the horrific state the game launched in back in 2017 .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ team at DICE really turned it around and delivered , pretty much , the Star Wars multiplayer game we ’ ve been asking for since the OG Battlefront on PS2 .
The graphics are still impressive three years later , there are a wide variety of maps set in all three eras of the Star Wars movies , and dammit , it just feels good to play .
There ’ s even a solid community still playing the game .
I know this because a friend and I have a Battlefront date just @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gets you every DLC map , character , and costume that dropped for the last three years .
While regular content updates have more or less come to an end for the game , the final state is a truly impressive love letter to the Star Wars universe .
If you ’ ve held off on checking it out , there really isn ’ t a better time to give it a look .
Alright , y ’ all .
That will do it for me this week .
As I said earlier @ @ @ @ @ @ @ going to get to everything that ’ s on sale right now , so I highly recommend checking out PSN and the Xbox Live Marketplace for yourself .
I ’ m really trying to hold on to my coins but these sales are making it hard , dammit .
So as always , wash your hands , wear a mask , and play more video games .

Trying to make this week’s list was a lot, y’all. As a result of the pandemic making it wildly irresponsible to gather in our yearly show of mass consumerism, most Black Friday deals have already gone live. I don’t have nearly the space to go through all the bangers on sale right now, so I’m going to get to the shits.
Watch Dogs: Legion, $40.19 (PSN and Xbox Marketplace)
Advertisement
You know, if I knew this was going to be on sale this month I probably wouldn’t have bought it at launch. That being said, I don’t regret my purchase as Watch Dogs: Legion is one of the more interesting games I’ve played this year. It’s almost like a big-budget procedurally generated game. There is no singular protagonist, instead, you can control virtually anyone in the game by recruiting them to your hacktivist collective, DedSec.
It doesn’t always net the most engaging results but this game is fascinating when all the pieces come together. Recruiting a construction worker so you can discreetly sneak onto a worksite to hack a computer is, surprisingly, mad satisfying. This is by far one of the more experimental games to come out at its price point this year and I have to commend it for the risks it took. The Watch Dogs games continue to have such a unique, puzzle-based approach on the open-world game and I definitely recommend giving this one a look.
Advertisement Advertisement
Tekken 7: Ultimate Edition, $19.99 (PSN)
Advertisement
If you, like me, left the Jeezy/Gucci Verzuz with an intense desire to beat a nigga’s ass, why not try Tekken instead? You can throw all the hands you want without ever catching a case. Tekken 7 has quietly maintained its dominance as the premier fighting game of the current generation and for good reason. Once you experience some Good Ass Tekken, there really isn’t any going back.
The ultimate edition nets you the first two season passes, which include multiple stages and additional characters. Tekken is the definition of easy to learn, hard to master, but training modules added to the game help make it more approachable for newcomers. The regular price for all this content is $100 bucks, so it’s a pretty solid discount in my opinion.
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Assassin’s Creed: Valhalla, Origins, and Odyssey, $79.99 (Xbox Marketplace)
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The sheer amount of game you get here is an unbelievable steal. For only 20 bucks more than the recently released Valhalla’s base price, you get both Origins and Odyssey. Each game easily has over 100+ hours of content, so you will be set for a minute if you happen to cop this.
I haven’t played Valhalla, yet, but the reviews have been excellent and one of my close friends/Assassin’s Creed expert describes it as “a more violent Settlers of Catan,” which, to my board game- loving ass, sounds like a great time.
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Also, all three games are optimized for the Series X, so if you happen to have the new console or intend to cop one in the coming months, you’ll already have a few bangers on the ready.
Star Wars Battlefront II: Celebration Edition, $15.99 (Xbox Marketplace)
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Y’all. Listen. Battlefront II is good, actually.
I feel like there is still a lot of residual side-eye given the horrific state the game launched in back in 2017. Which is a shame, because the team at DICE really turned it around and delivered, pretty much, the Star Wars multiplayer game we’ve been asking for since the OG Battlefront on PS2. The graphics are still impressive three years later, there are a wide variety of maps set in all three eras of the Star Wars movies, and dammit, it just feels good to play.
Advertisement
There’s even a solid community still playing the game. I know this because a friend and I have a Battlefront date just about every week. The Celebration Edition gets you every DLC map, character, and costume that dropped for the last three years. While regular content updates have more or less come to an end for the game, the final state is a truly impressive love letter to the Star Wars universe. If you’ve held off on checking it out, there really isn’t a better time to give it a look.
Alright, y’all. That will do it for me this week. As I said earlier, there was no way I was going to get to everything that’s on sale right now, so I highly recommend checking out PSN and the Xbox Live Marketplace for yourself. I’m really trying to hold on to my coins but these sales are making it hard, dammit.
Advertisement
So as always, wash your hands, wear a mask, and play more video games.


theroot--2020-11-20--The Best Home Gifts to Keep Every Household Warm and Cozy

It ’ s pretty clear that this year ’ s holiday season won ’ t look like any others .
Instead of malls and holiday markets , most of our shopping has moved online , And while everything may remain different , there ’ s still excitement and joy to be found in finding the perfect gifts for all your loved ones .
Gift planning is a great way to get into the holiday spirit .
But you ’ ve got a lot on your plate , so I ’ ve curated a list of the best home and kitchen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hold dear .
From the best kitchen appliances to ellipticals and travel-worthy gifts , you ’ ll find the things you need for even the most discerning of those on your holiday list .
I got a Big Fig mattress two years ago , and I ’ ve been a fan ever since .
This mattress is made for larger-bodied people like me , and the company says it ’ s designed to last up to 20 years .
It ’ s a gift that any larger person in your life will be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is firm , which is a godsend for people with back problems , and it has edge support , so you don ’ t fall off the bed by mistake in the middle of the night .
It is designed to not sag under your weight and keep the sleeper cool all night long .
Big Fig mattress is a cult favorite amongst plus-size influencers and models , often appearing on Instagram and Facebook .
By offering monthly financing , Big Fig is also made accessible for a range of budgets , allow @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and who are we kidding , buy this for yourself .
You won ’ t regret it .
I spent 7 years working in the automotive industry and on my feet for 50 hours a week easily .
Now , working from home during the pandemic , I ’ m dreading the cold and losing an outlet to exercise .
If you have a loved one in a similar position , getting them a NordicTrack elliptical just makes perfect sense .
It ’ s a 3-in-1 workout machine , acting like an elliptical @ @ @ @ @ @ @ depending on the settings .
NordicTrack works with iFit , a personal training system that integrates with the elliptical and allows the trainers to adjust things like incline in the middle of a workout .
Live .
iFit memberships can be shared by up to four adults , so you can each keep track of your own movement goals , needs , and preferences .
That makes it the ideal household gift for your pandemic pod to stay active and enjoy a good sweat , without ever leaving the house .
A thoughtful @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the AVerMedia Live streamer cam is both a webcam and a microphone in one convenient unit .
It swivels and has a wide-angle , making it easier to Skype with family when you need to fit more than one person in the camera .
Reviewers are satisfied with the starter product , from teachers to streamers , home businesses to Zumba instructor , making it a gift for anyone on your list .
“ I use for my Zumba classes that I teach on Zoom .
I bought on the recommendation of another @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ It was easy to connect and use , just plug and play .
My students said the picture quality was a lot clearer and sharper than my MacBook camera.
” If you have a tidy type or a mom on your gifting list , these reusable zip lock style bags are the budget-friendly gift for you .
Created by two Latina businesswomen who decided that not finding a product they wanted on the shelf wasn ’ t going to stop them , created this high-quality reusable option .
It ’ s good @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and look Instagram friendly too .
Got any vegetarians or juice lovers on your holiday list ?
They will be head over heels for this knife set .
They were designed by one of the biggest names in top quality juicers specifically for cutting fruit and vegetables , so you know they are top quality .
“ I love this knife set , ” writes Joan E. “ After seeing what each knife could do and how seamlessly they cut through all my vegetables , I donated all my other knives .
This @ @ @ @ @ @ @ For the architecture and appliance lover in your life , an espresso maker designed by the renowned Italian architect Luca Trazzi is a dream-worthy gift .
If you get it in the striking red option , it ’ s a sleek , beautiful machine anyone would be proud to keep front and center on their counter .
The machine features a unique two-step process that is patented and produces a wonderfully bold shot of espresso .
The avid cook on your gift list would be in love with this fabulous cooker and air @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to slow cook , air fry , pressure cook , broil , steam , bake , dehydrate , and a lot more .
This is the epitome of a foodie gift .
A wireless long-range Bluetooth meat thermometer is innovation on a whole new level .
The MEATER Plus ( or MEATER Block ) is essential to avoiding overcooking a Christmas turkey , the key to a perfect medium-rare Sunday rib roast , and a vital tool for any BBQ master .
MEATER even has an app that will guide the user through @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it ’ s time to hustle and get the meat off the flame .
A supreme gift for a BBQ enthusiast , home cook , steak lover , or anyone who needs a little assistance getting the temperature right .
This trio of sustainably hand-woven bowls will grace any kitchen counter with an aura of elegance and beauty .
It ’ s a thoughtful gift to the person who has it all or to a fruit lover .
The bowls are handmade by Fair Trade artisans in Bangladesh .
I ’ m filling @ @ @ @ @ @ @ potatoes instead of fruit , but as woven handmade bowls , they are incredibly versatile .
For the minimalistic parent-to-be or new parent in your life , the Kibou unisex diaper bag offers a beautiful alternative to traditional bags .
It ’ s designed to offer the parent exactly what they need from a diaper bag , not more , not less .
The Kibou is made of vegan leather , with a sturdy strap , to be worn as a crossbody or fanny pack depending on your preference .
The bag features @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pocket for wet wipes , and a clip for keys so they don ’ t get lost .
Nicole Pomije , a small business owner forced to pivot after the start of the pandemic , launched a pizza making kit just in time for the holidays .
These kits give you or your loved ones a gift that is much more than just a pizza , it gives them the gift of an experience .
The kit includes everything needed for a parent-child kitchen date , including a rolling pin , flour , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this gift does more than just make the recipient happy , it supports a family this holiday season .
Adults love audiobooks , so why wouldn ’ t kids ?
Lunii created an audiobook reader just for them , perfect for igniting their imagination in a screen-free way .
Offered in English , Spanish , and French , this audiobook reader allows the child to be part of the creation of the stories , and gives parents a little peace and quiet during a tough year .
Give this gift to the little @ @ @ @ @ @ @ parents will thank you .
Rafi Nova ’ s bags stand out in a sea of backpacks thanks to their unique accents and use of vegan leather and upcycled textiles .
This bag is one of a kind , each one they sell is just a bit different—it ’ s as thoughtful as it is charming , and that ’ s sure to win a few brownie points with a loved one .
Memories that holidays create is one of the most powerful parts of the season .
This mosaic puzzle is the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ family , and when it ’ s completed , it makes a fabulous keepsake .
It ’ s a device free , creative , and relaxing way to connect with your kids or give the gift of connecting to your loved ones .
Candles are a classic and thoughtful gift , and these candles from Pet House are the ultimate gift for the pet parent in your life .
Pet House Candles are beautiful , unique candles designed to clean the air from pet odors , and look great while doing so .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ candles , but these are subtle enough that even I enjoy them .
Scents include fireside , roses , and hot cocoa .
Pick one up for yourself while you ’ re at it , you won ’ t regret it .
Finding the right gift for our furry friends can be hard when they ’ ve pampered .
If your cat deserves the best—let ’ s face it , they all do—the Catit cat tree is it .
It ’ ll last your pets a lifetime , with replaceable parts , removable @ @ @ @ @ @ @ spots for your cat to enjoy .
It even offers impressively tall scratching posts , perfect for a cat that loves to scratch high .
It ’ s easy to put together and looks as beautiful while keeping your fur baby nice and entertained .
Ok , now this is a gift any pet parent on your shopping list will fall in love with .
This robot vacuum has twin cameras and built-in AI technology to avoid curious cats , discarded socks , and that earring that never got picked up .
It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
It ’ s also an intelligent mop , saving your gift receiver a lot of time washing up and vacuuming their homes .
The vacuum ’ s camera can even be used to speak to and check up on the owner ’ s pets when are away from home .
It ’ s a high tech gift that any pet owner will bless you for and use on a regular basis .
Dreaming of the next adventure comes easily with this Carry On Pro suitcase from Nomatic .
It ’ s a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the day of any minimalist traveler in your life .
It ’ s big enough to be all they need for a weekend getaway , or it can supplement a larger bag for longer trips .
It ’ s made of sturdy polycarbonate and boasts a uniquely designed tech pocket so that laptops , phones , and other tech are easily accessible when it ’ s needed and simple to remove when going through security .
The premise of the Adventure Challenge encourages adventures and memory-making through unique adventure ideas .
Open the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ point , and time commitment , then scratch off the square .
You won ’ t know what adventure you ’ re embarking on until you ’ ve scratched the square , though , bringing a bit of mystery into your life .
When paired with the Hexo rollerball [ en , it ’ s great for the loving couples in your life , friends , and family , with corresponding options for each of those categories .
The European-made pen fits in the hand perfectly , allowing for inspiring creativity and a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Adventure Challenge .
For the hiker or mountain climber on your holiday list , a trailhead camp chair from Yeti is a must-have .
When they reach the top of the mountain , after all , the view should be enjoyed in comfort .
The Yeti Trailhead Chair is solidly made , with a wide comfortable seat for those with larger hips , and has a weight limit of 500 lbs .
The lightweight and easily foldable frame make it perfect for more than just hiking—it ’ s fabulous for camping , backyard @ @ @ @ @ @ @ socially distanced park get-togethers .
Help your loved ones travel the world without ever leaving their house with MunchPak .
The international snack subscription includes a beverage and snacks that will tickle their taste buds with new and unique ideas flavors .
You can buy a one-off box as a gift , or a monthly subscription for a gift that brightens their whole year .
The box includes a booklet that explains all the snacks , complete notes about countries they are from , deepening the sense of adventure you ’ ll be @ @

Chaya M Milchtein on The Inventory, shared by Jordan McMahon to The Root

It’s pretty clear that this year’s holiday season won’t look like any others. Instead of malls and holiday markets, most of our shopping has moved online, And while everything may remain different, there’s still excitement and joy to be found in finding the perfect gifts for all your loved ones.
Gift planning is a great way to get into the holiday spirit. But you’ve got a lot on your plate, so I’ve curated a list of the best home and kitchen gifts you can get for those you hold dear. From the best kitchen appliances to ellipticals and travel-worthy gifts, you’ll find the things you need for even the most discerning of those on your holiday list.
Gifts for the Home
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I got a Big Fig mattress two years ago, and I’ve been a fan ever since. This mattress is made for larger-bodied people like me, and the company says it’s designed to last up to 20 years. It’s a gift that any larger person in your life will be thanking you for decades. The mattress is firm, which is a godsend for people with back problems, and it has edge support, so you don’t fall off the bed by mistake in the middle of the night. It is designed to not sag under your weight and keep the sleeper cool all night long.
Big Fig mattress is a cult favorite amongst plus-size influencers and models, often appearing on Instagram and Facebook. By offering monthly financing, Big Fig is also made accessible for a range of budgets, allow you to decide to gift it, and who are we kidding, buy this for yourself. You won’t regret it.
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I spent 7 years working in the automotive industry and on my feet for 50 hours a week easily. Now, working from home during the pandemic, I’m dreading the cold and losing an outlet to exercise.
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If you have a loved one in a similar position, getting them a NordicTrack elliptical just makes perfect sense. It’s a 3-in-1 workout machine, acting like an elliptical, a stepper, and a treadmill depending on the settings.
NordicTrack works with iFit, a personal training system that integrates with the elliptical and allows the trainers to adjust things like incline in the middle of a workout. Live. iFit memberships can be shared by up to four adults, so you can each keep track of your own movement goals, needs, and preferences. That makes it the ideal household gift for your pandemic pod to stay active and enjoy a good sweat, without ever leaving the house.
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A thoughtful gift to anyone working from home, the AVerMedia Live streamer cam is both a webcam and a microphone in one convenient unit. It swivels and has a wide-angle, making it easier to Skype with family when you need to fit more than one person in the camera.
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Reviewers are satisfied with the starter product, from teachers to streamers, home businesses to Zumba instructor, making it a gift for anyone on your list. “I use for my Zumba classes that I teach on Zoom. I bought on the recommendation of another Zumba instructor,” Diadina Veras. “It was easy to connect and use, just plug and play. My students said the picture quality was a lot clearer and sharper than my MacBook camera.”
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If you have a tidy type or a mom on your gifting list, these reusable zip lock style bags are the budget-friendly gift for you. Created by two Latina businesswomen who decided that not finding a product they wanted on the shelf wasn’t going to stop them, created this high-quality reusable option. It’s good for the environment, your pocketbook, and look Instagram friendly too.
Gifts for the Kitchen
Advertisement
Got any vegetarians or juice lovers on your holiday list? They will be head over heels for this knife set. They were designed by one of the biggest names in top quality juicers specifically for cutting fruit and vegetables, so you know they are top quality. “I love this knife set,” writes Joan E. “After seeing what each knife could do and how seamlessly they cut through all my vegetables, I donated all my other knives. This set is definitely worth the money.”
Advertisement
For the architecture and appliance lover in your life, an espresso maker designed by the renowned Italian architect Luca Trazzi is a dream-worthy gift. If you get it in the striking red option, it’s a sleek, beautiful machine anyone would be proud to keep front and center on their counter. The machine features a unique two-step process that is patented and produces a wonderfully bold shot of espresso.
Advertisement
The avid cook on your gift list would be in love with this fabulous cooker and air fryer all-in-one. The pot allows you to slow cook, air fry, pressure cook, broil, steam, bake, dehydrate, and a lot more. This is the epitome of a foodie gift.
Advertisement
A wireless long-range Bluetooth meat thermometer is innovation on a whole new level. The MEATER Plus (or MEATER Block) is essential to avoiding overcooking a Christmas turkey, the key to a perfect medium-rare Sunday rib roast, and a vital tool for any BBQ master.
MEATER even has an app that will guide the user through the cooking process and remind them when it’s time to hustle and get the meat off the flame. A supreme gift for a BBQ enthusiast, home cook, steak lover, or anyone who needs a little assistance getting the temperature right.
Advertisement
This trio of sustainably hand-woven bowls will grace any kitchen counter with an aura of elegance and beauty. It’s a thoughtful gift to the person who has it all or to a fruit lover. The bowls are handmade by Fair Trade artisans in Bangladesh. I’m filling them with onions, garlic, and potatoes instead of fruit, but as woven handmade bowls, they are incredibly versatile.
Advertisement
Gifts for Parents
Advertisement
For the minimalistic parent-to-be or new parent in your life, the Kibou unisex diaper bag offers a beautiful alternative to traditional bags. It’s designed to offer the parent exactly what they need from a diaper bag, not more, not less. The Kibou is made of vegan leather, with a sturdy strap, to be worn as a crossbody or fanny pack depending on your preference. The bag features a built-in changing pad, a waterproof pocket for wet wipes, and a clip for keys so they don’t get lost.
Advertisement
Nicole Pomije, a small business owner forced to pivot after the start of the pandemic, launched a pizza making kit just in time for the holidays. These kits give you or your loved ones a gift that is much more than just a pizza, it gives them the gift of an experience. The kit includes everything needed for a parent-child kitchen date, including a rolling pin, flour, and even a pizza cutter. Giving this gift does more than just make the recipient happy, it supports a family this holiday season.
Advertisement
Adults love audiobooks, so why wouldn’t kids? Lunii created an audiobook reader just for them, perfect for igniting their imagination in a screen-free way. Offered in English, Spanish, and French, this audiobook reader allows the child to be part of the creation of the stories, and gives parents a little peace and quiet during a tough year. Give this gift to the little tykes in your life, and their parents will thank you.
Advertisement
Rafi Nova’s bags stand out in a sea of backpacks thanks to their unique accents and use of vegan leather and upcycled textiles. This bag is one of a kind, each one they sell is just a bit different—it’s as thoughtful as it is charming, and that’s sure to win a few brownie points with a loved one.
Advertisement
Memories that holidays create is one of the most powerful parts of the season. This mosaic puzzle is the perfect activity to inspire memories in any family, and when it’s completed, it makes a fabulous keepsake. It’s a device free, creative, and relaxing way to connect with your kids or give the gift of connecting to your loved ones.
Pets
Advertisement
Candles are a classic and thoughtful gift, and these candles from Pet House are the ultimate gift for the pet parent in your life. Pet House Candles are beautiful, unique candles designed to clean the air from pet odors, and look great while doing so. I don’t typically like scented candles, but these are subtle enough that even I enjoy them. Scents include fireside, roses, and hot cocoa. Pick one up for yourself while you’re at it, you won’t regret it.
Advertisement
Finding the right gift for our furry friends can be hard when they’ve pampered. If your cat deserves the best—let’s face it, they all do—the Catit cat tree is it. It’ll last your pets a lifetime, with replaceable parts, removable washable memory foam cushions, and multiple spots for your cat to enjoy. It even offers impressively tall scratching posts, perfect for a cat that loves to scratch high. It’s easy to put together and looks as beautiful while keeping your fur baby nice and entertained.
Advertisement
Ok, now this is a gift any pet parent on your shopping list will fall in love with. This robot vacuum has twin cameras and built-in AI technology to avoid curious cats, discarded socks, and that earring that never got picked up. It’s not just a vacuum cleaner. It’s also an intelligent mop, saving your gift receiver a lot of time washing up and vacuuming their homes. The vacuum’s camera can even be used to speak to and check up on the owner’s pets when are away from home. It’s a high tech gift that any pet owner will bless you for and use on a regular basis.
Travel
Advertisement
Dreaming of the next adventure comes easily with this Carry On Pro suitcase from Nomatic. It’s a stunningly-designed piece of luggage that would brighten the day of any minimalist traveler in your life. It’s big enough to be all they need for a weekend getaway, or it can supplement a larger bag for longer trips. It’s made of sturdy polycarbonate and boasts a uniquely designed tech pocket so that laptops, phones, and other tech are easily accessible when it’s needed and simple to remove when going through security.
Advertisement
The premise of the Adventure Challenge encourages adventures and memory-making through unique adventure ideas. Open the journal, choose a category, price point, and time commitment, then scratch off the square. You won’t know what adventure you’re embarking on until you’ve scratched the square, though, bringing a bit of mystery into your life.
When paired with the Faber-Castell’s Hexo R ollerball Pen, it’s great for the loving couples in your life, friends, and family, with corresponding opt ions for each of those categories. The European-made pen fits in the hand perfectly, allowing for inspiring creativity and a beautiful end product for memories with The Adventure Challenge.
Advertisement
For the hiker or mountain climber on your holiday list, a trailhead camp chair from Yeti is a must-have. When they reach the top of the mountain, after all, the view should be enjoyed in comfort. The Yeti Trailhead Chair is solidly made, with a wide comfortable seat for those with larger hips, and has a weight limit of 500 lbs. The lightweight and easily foldable frame make it perfect for more than just hiking—it’s fabulous for camping, backyard BBQs, and even watching fireworks and socially distanced park get-togethers.
Advertisement
Advertisement
Help your loved ones travel the world without ever leaving their house with MunchPak. The international snack subscription includes a beverage and snacks that will tickle their taste buds with new and unique ideas flavors. You can buy a one-off box as a gift, or a monthly subscription for a gift that brightens their whole year. The box includes a booklet that explains all the snacks, complete notes about countries they are from, deepening the sense of adventure you’ll be giving.


theroot--2020-11-20--Unpopular Opinion: Turkey Is Good

Unpopular Opinion: Turkey Is Good

I hadn ’ t realized exactly how thoroughly I ’ d been influenced by the onslaught of anti-turkey propaganda until making a Thanksgiving shopping list with my wife this morning .
( It is weird that we ’ re still planning to purchase and cook a sailor ’ s buffet of food despite the fact that no one will be in our house except for us and our children—both of whom would rather eat pretzels and pancakes than literally anything we plan to make ?
Let me answer that : Yes !
It ’ s weird as fuck ! )
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ to add to the list , I questioned whether turkey was necessary .
“ How bout some hens and a steak ?
” I argued .
Which is fine !
Some hens and a steak would make a delicious centerpiece of any meal .
I ’ d even watch a cartoon about sentient meats and gentrification called “ Some Hens and a Steak.
” But I was intentionally neglecting to mention turkey , as if I was trying to make some sort of point about the uselessness of it and my self-conscious subversion @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Basically , I was being the sort of turkey hipster Jenee Desmond Harris called out today .
So when my wife asked about the turkey , I started to construct a rationale for the dismissal of it ( “ It tastes like cat balls , ” “ It ’ s hard to cook , ” “ Other meats have more swag , ” etc . )
but stopped myself when realizing it was all lies .
Turkey is fine .
Turkey is better than fine .
Turkey is good .
I get it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mostly rests on the presumptuousness of its inclusion on Thanksgiving .
Turkey is the undisputed king , the straw that stirs the drink , the meat prince that was promised , and it has retained that status , unchallenged , for decades .
But turkey is not the best meat , and the centering of turkey becomes a meta-commentary for the cultural centering of mediocrity .
Why the fuck do we allow turkey this privilege , when hen meat , chicken meat , beef meat , pork meat , deer meat , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ?
Definitely sexier .
This sentiment is not wrong , but it induced a zeitgeisty overcorrection where turkey shifted from “ essential ” to “ trash ” —a feeling that neglects to consider turkey ’ s most valuable function : playmaking .
While it does exist , physically , as the star , turkey ’ s primary role is decidedly supporting .
It ’ s a meat that brings out the best of the other dishes .
It will not overpower the yams or the mac and cheese or the greens , but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with them .
It is also the most versatile of the main meats .
Turkey sandwiches .
Turkey salad .
Turkey soup .
Turkey pot pie , my nigga ?
Shit !
Turkey is the Gary Oldman of meats—capable , relatable , adaptable , overqualified , and vaguely racist .

Damon Young on Very Smart Brothas, shared by Damon Young to The Root

I hadn’t realized exactly how thoroughly I’d been influenced by the onslaught of anti-turkey propaganda until making a Thanksgiving shopping list with my wife this morning. (It is weird that we’re still planning to purchase and cook a sailor’s buffet of food despite the fact that no one will be in our house except for us and our children—both of whom would rather eat pretzels and pancakes than literally anything we plan to make? Let me answer that: Yes! It’s weird as fuck!)
While going over the meats we planned to add to the list, I questioned whether turkey was necessary. “How bout some hens and a steak?” I argued. Which is fine! Some hens and a steak would make a delicious centerpiece of any meal. I’d even watch a cartoon about sentient meats and gentrification called “Some Hens and a Steak.” But I was intentionally neglecting to mention turkey, as if I was trying to make some sort of point about the uselessness of it and my self-conscious subversion of expected holiday meat consumption norms. Basically, I was being the sort of turkey hipster Jenee Desmond Harris called out today .
Advertisement
So when my wife asked about the turkey, I started to construct a rationale for the dismissal of it (“It tastes like cat balls,” “It’s hard to cook,” “Other meats have more swag,” etc.) but stopped myself when realizing it was all lies. Turkey is fine. Turkey is better than fine. Turkey is good.
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I get it, though. The case against turkey mostly rests on the presumptuousness of its inclusion on Thanksgiving. Turkey is the undisputed king, the straw that stirs the drink, the meat prince that was promised, and it has retained that status, unchallenged, for decades. But turkey is not the best meat, and the centering of turkey becomes a meta-commentary for the cultural centering of mediocrity. Why the fuck do we allow turkey this privilege, when hen meat, chicken meat, beef meat, pork meat, deer meat, and goat meat are each arguably better meats? Definitely sexier. This sentiment is not wrong, but it induced a zeitgeisty overcorrection where turkey shifted from “essential” to “trash”—a feeling that neglects to consider turkey’s most valuable function: playmaking.
While it does exist, physically, as the star, turkey’s primary role is decidedly supporting. It’s a meat that brings out the best of the other dishes. It will not overpower the yams or the mac and cheese or the greens, but it will exist in a delicious symbiosis with them. It is also the most versatile of the main meats. Turkey sandwiches. Turkey salad. Turkey soup. Turkey pot pie, my nigga? Shit! Turkey is the Gary Oldman of meats—capable, relatable, adaptable, overqualified, and vaguely racist.
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I’m done writing now. Goodbye!


theroot--2020-11-20--The Root's Clapback Mailbag: The Credit Card

More than a year ago , I promised to include more complimentary correspondences in the Clapback Mailbag .
I swear I tried .
It ’ s not that people don ’ t share their appreciation for The Root with us .
The problem is—and I am still trying to figure out why—I don ’ t take compliments well .
I recognize that this is a problem but there is something innate that prevents me from acknowledging compliments .
I don ’ t think it comes from self-loathing or a lack of confidence ; it just seems indulgent or narcissistic to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and reassuring about knowing that dumb , racist people can ’ t stand you .
Having someone whose entire worldview is wrong tell you that you ’ re an idiot is the closest thing you ’ ll ever get to a confirmation that you ’ re on the right path .
So , to the people who read The Root and fire off angry emails , tweets and DMs , I ’ d like to say , from the bottom of my heart : Thanks for the compliment .
It would be impossible @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mail from the article about dumb white people : However , I really feel the need to respond to one subset of readers : The non-racist white people who didn ’ t vote for Trump .
I was born white .
I ’ m neither sorry nor happy that I ’ m white it ’ s just who I am .
You don ’ t know me .
I could be a good person or a jerk , so judging me by the color of my skin is an old concept that hasn @ @ @ @ @ @ @ shade of epidermis at any time in human history .
I was fortunate to have been raised to be color blind , and status blind , and looks blind .
My mother was ahead of MLK .
She advised me that to determine the heart of a person observe how they treat others ... especially those less fortunate in all the categories above .
I ’ ve been a Democrat for all of my 78 years .
I don ’ t like President Trumps manners , but I don ’ t hate him @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ ve seen him attacked , insulted and threatened .
It ’ s okay to disagree with him but it ’ s not okay to behave worse than he does .
It makes me sad to see people divided and angry , but it devastates me to see mindless hate ... and that ’ s what is happening all too often .
I don ’ t know , but I imagine that you ’ re a good husband , father ... maybe even a grandfather like me , and a good friend .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Hate and intolerance pave the way to violence and destruction .
What will you choose Michael ?
Message : Hello , I read your article about white people being dumb , deniers of science , and voters of Trump .
Your article stated that 54 % of white people voted for Trump .
That means almost half did not .
I fall into the latter category just like you fall into the majority of black people that did not vote for Trump .
My point is you generalized which is the exact thing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which they do and for someone that wishes racism to go away shouldn ’ t we end all generalizations ?
Until people recognize that all people are unique and can not be categorized we will suffer with racism .
We see it all the time .
The media takes for granted that the Black vote will be for democrats while the White vote will be for republicans .
Doesn ’ t this irritate you that you are taken for granted ?
I know it irritates me so please stop .
If you are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are part of the problem .
First of all , I ’ d like to deeply apologize for my complete failure to acknowledge your efforts to vote for Joe Biden .
It is inexcusable .
I ’ d also like to apologize for forgetting to praise : • All the people who didn ’ t own slaves .
• The white people who never lynched a Black person for not raping a white woman .
• The people who didn ’ t spit on kids integrating schools .
• All the stores who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Jim Crow era .
• Diners that served Black people who sat at lunch counters .
• All the women who are not my mama .
• People who were born in mangers but were not Messiahs .
In fact , I often think about how we forget that most people in Germany ’ s Nazi Party never laid a finger on a Jewish person .
Haters like to focus on the men who herded people into concentration camps and participated in the Holocaust but we never recognize the people who didn ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ about the people who voted for Hitler because they liked tiny mustaches ?
How about the people who just wanted to keep their jobs and go about their lives as usual ?
Why should they be condemned ?
Sure , they might not have done anything to stop Hitler but a lot of those people were just working-class garbagemen and secretaries and tailors and train conductors and schoolteachers .
A lot of them just liked the National Socialist German Workers ’ Party ’ s economic policies because it had a great pension and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that we “ scapegoat ” the Nazis and paint them with such a broad brush .
You know who else gets a bad rap ?
Did you know that most Southern whites who fought for the Confederacy didn ’ t own slaves ?
Sure , they killed their own countrymen for the right to create a white supremacist state that was based on the subjugation of human beings , but most of them weren ’ t slavemasters .
And yeah , some would say that it is impossible for them not to know @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people were subjected to , but that doesn ’ t mean all white Southerners wanted to enslave Africans .
During Jim Crow , when white people turned on the news and saw Black children being bitten by dogs and sprayed with water hoses , most white people still didn ’ t support the civil rights movement .
But does that make all the white people bad ?
We can ’ t possibly know what all those white people thought so it ’ s dangerous to condemn all the white people .
Now , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Do you think a Jewish person differentiates between a fair-haired German who just wanted a pension plan and the engineers who built the death chambers ?
Do you think Harriet Tubman told her Underground Railroad passengers to only hide from the fugitive slave catchers or from just “ white people ” ?
Do you think the people at sit-ins thought the man behind the counter was a racist but excused the actions of the white diners silently eating ham sandwiches at the same lunch counters ?
Here is the thing about holocausts , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It is all white people ’ s fault .
All the enslavers , lynchers , Nazis , Klansmen and violent white extremists who ever existed could not have carried out their hateful deeds if not for people like you .
Gary , you are supposed to hate Trump .
If you have an iota of tolerance or compassion for someone whose politics , ideology or plans include disregarding or harming other human beings , you are helping them .
The fact that you don ’ t , means that you are not only @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
If you knew anything about Martin Luther King Jr. , you ’ d know that he didn ’ t believe that love and compassion could defeat injustice .
Love and compassion are simply the necessary ingredients necessary to make someone do something about injustice .
It ’ s the “ doing something ” that is important .
And perhaps that is the difference between me and you .
I hate the death chambers .
I hate the segregated lunch counters .
I hate the lynchings and the slave catchers and the chains @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the white supremacy .
And you ’ re just a white man trying to eat his ham sandwich ... With tolerance and compassion for it all .
Of course , I must acknowledge that not all white people feel like Gary , Mark and White Person After reading Gary and Mark ’ s letters , you don ’ t know how much I needed this .
Here ’ s a brand new argument that I ’ ve never heard before from white women : “ We ?
” Damn , girl , that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Chile , I had no idea .
I mean , I know that the women ’ s suffrage movement evolved out of the abolition movement but when I read my history books about how Quakers and Black women who started the Philadelphia Anti-Slavery Society , I must have missed your name , Lara .
Of course , had I known it was you who freed the slaves and dealt a crushing blow to racism , I definitely would have given you credit .
You deserve a round of applause for coming in second @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of historical brutality .
But then again , I was probably concentrating on all those male slave-owners , segregationists and Trump supporters and forgot that white women owned 40 percent of slaves according to the 1860 census .
I forgot that the Daughters of the Confederacy are largely responsible for all the Confederate monuments .
I forgot that by Brown v. Board of Education , white women were on the school boards that refused to integrate and voted for Southern segregationists .
I forgot that Alabama ’ s Lurleen Wallace became only the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ her husband , segregationist George Wallace , couldn ’ t be re-elected because of term limits .
Was that you , too Lara ?
What ?
You want credit for all the good stuff white women did but not the bad ?
I thought you were a part of the “ we , ” Lara ?
Why ’ d you do that ?
Why ’ d you let your homegirl lie on Emmett Till ?
Or the people in Rosewood ?
Or that boy in Tulsa ?
Why ’ d you throw bottles @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Jim Crow ?
Why ’ d you let Black women organize your suffrage movement and kick them to the curb ?
Why ’ d you uphold white supremacy and pretend that you were an innocent little victim all this time ?
Because everyone wants freedom .
Everyone wants equality .
And most of the time , the path to acceptance means pledging your loyalty to the oppressors and proving that you are no different than they are .
It ’ s not the only path but it is often the easiest path .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ blame you for that , you can ’ t expect me to believe that you aren ’ t with them just because you knitted yourself a pink hat and bought a Black Lives Matter T-shirt .
I ’ m not blaming you for the misdeeds of all white women Laura .
I ’ m just asking how I ’ m supposed to tell you from them ?
You just said you were part of the “ we , ” Laura !
Anyway , Congratulations on being slightly less of a white supremacist than @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Oppression Olympic silver medal feels nice next to your cold , heartless breast .

I kinda like hate mail.
More than a year ago, I promised to include more complimentary correspondences in the Clapback Mailbag. I swear I tried. It’s not that people don’t share their appreciation for The Root with us. The problem is—and I am still trying to figure out why—I don’t take compliments well.
I recognize that this is a problem but there is something innate that prevents me from acknowledging compliments. I don’t think it comes from self-loathing or a lack of confidence; it just seems indulgent or narcissistic to me.
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But hate, though.
There’s something satisfying and reassuring about knowing that dumb, racist people can’t stand you. Having someone whose entire worldview is wrong tell you that you’re an idiot is the closest thing you’ll ever get to a confirmation that you’re on the right path.
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So, to the people who read The Root and fire off angry emails, tweets and DMs, I’d like to say, from the bottom of my heart:
Thanks for the compliment.
It would be impossible for me to include all the hate mail from the article about dumb white people:
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However, I really feel the need to respond to one subset of readers: The non-racist white people who didn’t vote for Trump.
To: Michael Harriot
From: Gary ...Michael I was born white. I’m neither sorry nor happy that I’m white it’s just who I am. You don’t know me. I could be a good person or a jerk, so judging me by the color of my skin is an old concept that hasn’t made any sense for any shade of epidermis at any time in human history. I was fortunate to have been raised to be color blind, and status blind, and looks blind. My mother was ahead of MLK. She advised me that to determine the heart of a person observe how they treat others...especially those less fortunate in all the categories above. I’ve been a Democrat for all of my 78 years. I don’t like President Trumps manners, but I don’t hate him. For the last four years I’ve seen him attacked, insulted and threatened. It’s okay to disagree with him but it’s not okay to behave worse than he does. It makes me sad to see people divided and angry, but it devastates me to see mindless hate...and that’s what is happening all too often. I don’t know, but I imagine that you’re a good husband, father...maybe even a grandfather like me, and a good friend. Compassion and tolerance will heal us. Hate and intolerance pave the way to violence and destruction. We all have a choice. What will you choose Michael?
To: Michael Harriot
From: Mark
Subject: racism Message: Hello, I read your article about white people being dumb, deniers of science, and voters of Trump. Your article stated that 54% of white people voted for Trump. That means almost half did not. I fall into the latter category just like you fall into the majority of black people that did not vote for Trump. My point is you generalized which is the exact thing that you claim white racists do, which they do and for someone that wishes racism to go away shouldn’t we end all generalizations? Until people recognize that all people are unique and cannot be categorized we will suffer with racism. We see it all the time. The media takes for granted that the Black vote will be for democrats while the White vote will be for republicans. Doesn’t this irritate you that you are taken for granted? I know it irritates me so please stop. If you are not part of the solution then you are part of the problem.
To: Michael Harriot
From: White Person Im white im not dumb. I voted for biden for the fact he will be a great leader. Trump is a facist delusional meglomaniac. Socialpath and plain and simple priviledged idiot. The point is im not dumb. The article you wrote was pretty racist and it scapegoated a group. Im sure you know what this feels like. If you want to know what the problem is in this country its what you named that article. Black lives do matter. But dont turn around and make a racist comment about another group just because you dont agree with their politics. You are just as bad as they are.
Dear Gary, Mark and White Person,
First of all, I’d like to deeply apologize for my complete failure to acknowledge your efforts to vote for Joe Biden. It is inexcusable.
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I’d also like to apologize for forgetting to praise:
All the people who didn’t own slaves.
The white people who never lynched a Black person for not raping a white woman.
The people who didn’t spit on kids integrating schools.
All the stores who only had one water fountain during the Jim Crow era.
Diners that served Black people who sat at lunch counters.
People who don’t kill puppies.
Non-poisonous snakes and spiders.
All the women who are not my mama.
People who were born in mangers but were not Messiahs.
In fact, I often think about how we forget that most people in Germany’s Nazi Party never laid a finger on a Jewish person. Haters like to focus on the men who herded people into concentration camps and participated in the Holocaust but we never recognize the people who didn’t contribute to the genocide. What about the people who voted for Hitler because they liked tiny mustaches? How about the people who just wanted to keep their jobs and go about their lives as usual? Why should they be condemned?
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Sure, they might not have done anything to stop Hitler but a lot of those people were just working-class garbagemen and secretaries and tailors and train conductors and schoolteachers. A lot of them just liked the National Socialist German Workers’ Party’s economic policies because it had a great pension and profit-sharing plan.
It’s terrible that we “scapegoat” the Nazis and paint them with such a broad brush.
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You know who else gets a bad rap?
Confederates.
Did you know that most Southern whites who fought for the Confederacy didn’t own slaves? Sure, they killed their own countrymen for the right to create a white supremacist state that was based on the subjugation of human beings, but most of them weren’t slavemasters. And yeah, some would say that it is impossible for them not to know about the brutal and inhumane treatment Black people were subjected to, but that doesn’t mean all white Southerners wanted to enslave Africans.
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During Jim Crow, when white people turned on the news and saw Black children being bitten by dogs and sprayed with water hoses, most white people still didn’t support the civil rights movement. But does that make all the white people bad? We can’t possibly know what all those white people thought so it’s dangerous to condemn all the white people.
Now, let me ask you a question:
Do you think a Jewish person differentiates between a fair-haired German who just wanted a pension plan and the engineers who built the death chambers? Do you think Harriet Tubman told her Underground Railroad passengers to only hide from the fugitive slave catchers or from just “white people”? Do you think the people at sit-ins thought the man behind the counter was a racist but excused the actions of the white diners silently eating ham sandwiches at the same lunch counters?
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Here is the thing about holocausts, Jim Crow and racism in America.
It is all white people’s fault.
All the enslavers, lynchers, Nazis, Klansmen and violent white extremists who ever existed could not have carried out their hateful deeds if not for people like you.
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Gary, you are supposed to hate Trump. If you have an iota of tolerance or compassion for someone whose politics, ideology or plans include disregarding or harming other human beings, you are helping them. The fact that you don’t, means that you are not only complicit, but you are a coward.
If you knew anything about Martin Luther King Jr., you’d know that he didn’t believe that love and compassion could defeat injustice. Love and compassion are simply the necessary ingredients necessary to make someone do something about injustice. It’s the “doing something” that is important.
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And perhaps that is the difference between me and you.
I hate the death chambers. I hate the segregated lunch counters. I hate the lynchings and the slave catchers and the chains and the inequality and the racism and the white supremacy.
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And you’re just a white man trying to eat his ham sandwich...
With tolerance and compassion for it all.
Of course, I must acknowledge that not all white people feel like Gary, Mark and White Person
To: Michael Harriot
From: TJ You are by far the most racist sob I’ve ever seen or in this case had the complete displeasure of ever coming across a written article
To: Michael Harriot
From: Jan Trump is going to win and kick niggs like you out of the America. Hope you have fun in Africa
To: Michael Harriot
From: Steve Who the fuck cares what your opinion is you dirty nigger. You treat whites like they are trash, so expect to be treated like shit right back at you, you piece of constipated shit.
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Dear TJ, James and Steve:
After reading Gary and Mark’s letters, you don’t know how much I needed this.
Thanks!
Here’s a brand new argument that I’ve never heard before from white women:
From: Lara
To: Michael Instead of using the race card against white women because they voted for Trump (I didn’t but recognize that many did), maybe you should point out how much we progressed. If black people couldn’t vote, who do you think elected the people who passed the civil rights laws? Many white women suffragists participated in the underground railroad and the abolition movement because we have an innate sense of right and wrong. It’s no coincidence that equal rights took a leap forward after we got the right to vote. Intersectionality begins with feminism and it’s sexist and ignorant to lump us in with the white patriarchy. We’ve been fighting for your freedom and equality along time. Yasss! An ally
Dear Lara, the ally,
Giiiirrrrrrllll.....
“We?” Damn, girl, that was you! You did that? Chile, I had no idea.
I mean, I know that the women’s suffrage movement evolved out of the abolition movement but when I read my history books about how Quakers and Black women who started the Philadelphia Anti-Slavery Society, I must have missed your name, Lara.
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Of course, had I known it was you who freed the slaves and dealt a crushing blow to racism, I definitely would have given you credit. You deserve a round of applause for coming in second place to white men in the Olympics of historical brutality.
But then again, I was probably concentrating on all those male slave-owners, segregationists and Trump supporters and forgot that white women owned 40 percent of slaves according to the 1860 census. I forgot that the Daughters of the Confederacy are largely responsible for all the Confederate monuments. I forgot that by Brown v. Board of Education, white women were on the school boards that refused to integrate and voted for Southern segregationists. I forgot that Alabama’s Lurleen Wallace became only the third woman to be elected governor because her husband, segregationist George Wallace, couldn’t be re-elected because of term limits.
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Was that you, too Lara?
What? You want credit for all the good stuff white women did but not the bad? I thought you were a part of the “we,” Lara?
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This you?
Why’d you do that? Why’d you let your homegirl lie on Emmett Till? Or the people in Rosewood? Or that boy in Tulsa? Why’d you throw bottles at Martin Luther King Jr. and support Jim Crow? Why’d you let Black women organize your suffrage movement and kick them to the curb? Why’d you uphold white supremacy and pretend that you were an innocent little victim all this time?
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It was a rhetorical question, Laura.
I know why.
Because everyone wants freedom. Everyone wants equality. And most of the time, the path to acceptance means pledging your loyalty to the oppressors and proving that you are no different than they are. It’s not the only path but it is often the easiest path. But even if I don’t blame you for that, you can’t expect me to believe that you aren’t with them just because you knitted yourself a pink hat and bought a Black Lives Matter T-shirt.
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I’m not blaming you for the misdeeds of all white women Laura. I’m just asking how I’m supposed to tell you from them? You just said you were part of the “we,” Laura!
Anyway, Congratulations on being slightly less of a white supremacist than white men. I’m sure the Oppression Olympic silver medal feels nice next to your cold, heartless breast.


theroot--2020-11-20--We See You, COVID-19. We See You

We See You, COVID-19. We See You

There are really only two kinds of people in this world : Those of us who wear masks , practice social distancing and stay inside as much as possible , and assholes .
As such , Republican states and Republican operatives are basically breeding grounds for COVID-19 .
So it is with a heavy heart that I say that Rudy Giuliani ’ s son , Andrew Giuliani , a special assistant to President Donald Trump , and second in line to inherit his father ’ s Dutch Christmas shoes , has tested positive for the coronavirus , according to Politico @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) has also tested positive for the coronavirus making him the second senator , behind 87-year-old Sen. Chuck Grassley ( R-Iowa ) , to contract the virus this week , Politico reports .
If only there was some thread that connected all of these outbreaks among these men we could follow that could point us in the right direction to guide us as to why…They ’ re all assholes .
Do I know them ?
Of course not .
But they ’ re all Republican and therefore assholes by default .
And don @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fool you ; he was probably at a kegger maskless doing bong rips and keg stands with his frat bros .
Managing Editor Genetta Adams : Stephen , dammit , we talked about this .
You can ’ t cover the coronavirus in this way .
Grassley , Scott , and Lil ’ Giuliani have all tested positive and that ’ s all we know .
Please get back to the news .
Me : How about the news that 100 percent of Republicans are assholes and 98 percent of those who ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Republican and therefore assholes .
G.A .
: Where are you getting this from ?
Whatever .
Everyone is fine .
“ I am feeling good and experiencing very mild symptoms , ” Scott told Politico “ I will be working from home in Naples until it is safe for me to return to Washington , D.C .
I want to remind everyone to be careful and do the right things to protect yourselves and others.
“ Tell that the zombie apocalypse crew on your side of the aisle .
The folks who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , without a face condom , in a fucking pandemic !
Lil Giuliani is experiencing mild symptoms , but he ’ s doing just fine , too .
Good thing Trump is working on a vaccine that no Black person will take the first version of— because Tuskegee experiment—but Geraldo seems to have come up with a reasonable solution to make the baby man happy : name the vaccine after the president !
Good thing this Geraldo is only the second-most famous Geraldo behind this guy : G.A .
: His name is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ both these guys .
Which makes the numbers : Republicans : 5 ; Democrats : 2 ( technically one because Virginia can be racist AF ) .

There are really only two kinds of people in this world: Those of us who wear masks, practice social distancing and stay inside as much as possible, and assholes.
Or Republicans. Same thing, really.
As such, Republican states and Republican operatives are basically breeding grounds for COVID-19. So it is with a heavy heart that I say that Rudy Giuliani’s son, Andrew Giuliani, a special assistant to President Donald Trump, and second in line to inherit his father’s Dutch Christmas shoes, has tested positive for the coronavirus, according to Politico.
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But...But...But..wait it gets worse.
Florida Sen. Rick Scott (R) has also tested positive for the coronavirus making him the second senator, behind 87-year-old Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), to contract the virus this week, Politico reports. If only there was some thread that connected all of these outbreaks among these men we could follow that could point us in the right direction to guide us as to why…They’re all assholes.
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Do I know them? Of course not. But they’re all Republican and therefore assholes by default. And don’t let Grassley’s age fool you; he was probably at a kegger maskless doing bong rips and keg stands with his frat bros.
Managing Editor Genetta Adams: Stephen, dammit, we talked about this. You can’t cover the coronavirus in this way. Grassley, Scott, and Lil’ Giuliani have all tested positive and that’s all we know. Please get back to the news.
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Me: How about the news that 100 percent of Republicans are assholes and 98 percent of those who’ve tested positive for the virus are Republican and therefore assholes.
G.A.: Where are you getting this from?
Me: My mind.
Whatever. Everyone is fine.
Scott said he’s feeling fine or whatever.
“I am feeling good and experiencing very mild symptoms,” Scott told Politico “I will be working from home in Naples until it is safe for me to return to Washington, D.C. I want to remind everyone to be careful and do the right things to protect yourselves and others.“
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Tell that the zombie apocalypse crew on your side of the aisle. The folks who are just out here raw dogging air, without a face condom, in a fucking pandemic!
Lil Giuliani is experiencing mild symptoms, but he’s doing just fine, too.
Politico notes:
Giuliani received his results Friday morning, he wrote on Twitter, and reported “experiencing mild symptoms.” He also wrote that he was “following all appropriate protocols, including being in quarantine and conducting contact tracing.”
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Good thing Trump is working on a vaccine that no Black person will take the first version of— because Tuskegee experiment—but Geraldo seems to have come up with a reasonable solution to make the baby man happy: name the vaccine after the president!
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Wait, what?
Good thing this Geraldo is only the second-most famous Geraldo behind this guy:
G.A.: His name is Gerado...
Me: Whatever, fuck both these guys.
Also from Politico:
Grassley and Scott are part of a growing list of lawmakers who have contracted the disease. Sens. Rand Paul (R-Ky.), Bill Cassidy (R-La.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) and Mike Lee (R-Utah) have all tested positive this year. Sens. Tim Kaine (D-Va.) and Bob Casey (D-Pa.) meanwhile, have tested positive for coronavirus antibodies.
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Which makes the numbers: Republicans: 5; Democrats: 2 (technically one because Virginia can be racist AF).
But who’s counting?
Me. I’m counting.


theroot--2020-11-20--Five of Clinique's Best Pop Shades Are Only $20 in This Set Exclusive to Macy’s

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 .
I ’ ve been a fan of Clinique ’ s products for years .
My mom is still very much a loyal customer so I often get sent their lipstick when she would visit the makeup counter at Macy ’ s .
Passion Pop is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 5 other shades from that collection together in one very affordable set .
The 5 piece Kisses Gift Set is only $ 20 in this early Black Friday deal .
Just one of these is normally $ 20 so this is quite the sale for a lipstick enthusiast .
Keep them all or share them with friends .
I can tell you these are absolutely moisturizing and leave your lips very soft .
They glide right on and have a really nice velvet finish .
The color is very saturated so you can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The shades in this set are all from the Pop line and include Nude , Plum , Poppy , Cherry , and Papaya .

Sheilah Villari on Kinja Deals, shared by Gabe Carey to The Root

Clinique 5-Pc. Kisses Gift Set | $15 | Macy’s
I’ve been a fan of Clinique’s products for years. My mom is still very much a loyal customer so I often get sent their lipstick when she would visit the makeup counter at Macy’s. Passion Pop is my go-to color and this set brings 5 other shades from that collection together in one very affordable set. The 5 piece Kisses Gift Set is only $15. T his sale will run until January 11 .
Just one of these is normally $20 so this is quite the sale for a lipstick enthusiast. Keep them all or share them with friends. I can tell you these are absolutely moisturizing and leave your lips very soft. They glide right on and have a really nice velvet finish. The color is very saturated so you can go as bold as you want. The shades in this set are all from the Pop line and include Nude, Plum, Poppy, Cherry, and Papaya.
Free shipping on orders over $25 .
This deal was originally posted by Sheilah Villari in November 2020 and updated new information on 12/30/2020.


theroot--2020-11-20--Tucker Carlson Asked a Trump Campaign Lawyer for Proof and That’s When She Shut Him Down

It isn ’ t like hot windbag and white hotep—he even wears bowties—Tucker Carlson to want proof before spouting out wild conspiracy theories in support of his president for life , Donald Trump .
So maybe that ’ s what scared Trump campaign attorney Sidney Powell from appearing on Carlson ’ s show , Bedroom Time with Baby , on Republican OnlyFans , Fox News .
Carlson claimed on Thursday that Powell “ got angry ” when he asked her for evidence to support her claims of voter fraud and basically told him to go fuck himself , which wasn @ @ @ @ @ @ @ told him that .
During a press conference earlier in the day with Rudy Giuliani , Powell made the allegation that Denver-based Dominion Voting Systems used technology developed by former Venezuelan President Hugo Chávez , who died in 2013 .
She claimed votes were manipulated while being tabulated overseas to favor President-elect Joe Biden .
There is no evidence to the claim that votes were manipulated and it has been criticized by a number of conservative officials , including Sen. Joni Ernst ( R-Iowa ) , who on Thursday called it “ absolutely @ @ @ @ @ @ @ out to Powell , asking that she provide evidence to her claims and that he was willing to give her as much time on his show , Don ’ t I Look Pretty , Daddy , which airs exclusively on Republican PornHub , to make her case .
He said her claim “ could amount to the single greatest crime in American history ” if it were true , according to the Hill .
“ When we kept pressing , she got angry and told us to stop contacting her , ” Carlson @ @ @ @ @ @ @ others around the Trump campaign , people in positions of authority , they told us Powell has never given any evidence either .
Nor did she provide any today.
” Carlson noted that Powell claimed that electronic voting had been switching votes from Trump to Biden , and you know if this had been true , Carlson would ’ ve been all over it .
Then Carlson , with a straight face , looked at the viewers of his show , I Hope You Brought Some Syrup ?
, which can be found @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ We care what ’ s true , and we know you care , too.
” The Hill notes that “ Powell responded to Carlson ’ s comments , telling the Washington Examiner that she encourages journalists to ‘ review all the materials ’ and ‘ conduct their own investigations.
’ “ Evidence continues to pour in , but a 5 minute television hit is not my focus now .
Collecting evidence and preparing the case are my top priorities.
” So you can make these wild-ass claims without any evidence and then @ @ @ @ @ @ @ entire election process that you are still conducting your own investigation ?
The Hill notes that during the now infamous press conference in which Rudy Giuliani ’ s human face mask began melting , that no one produced any evidence to support any of their wild-ass claims .
Meanwhile , Biden and Vice-President-elect Kamala Harris are doing the hard work of debating who won last night ’ s Verzuz battle between Gucci Mane and Jeezy .

It isn’t like hot windbag and white hotep—he even wears bowties—Tucker Carlson to want proof before spouting out wild conspiracy theories in support of his president for life, Donald Trump.
So maybe that’s what scared Trump campaign attorney Sidney Powell from appearing on Carlson’s show, Bedroom Time with Baby, on Republican OnlyFans, Fox News.
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Carlson claimed on Thursday that Powell “got angry” when he asked her for evidence to support her claims of voter fraud and basically told him to go fuck himself, which wasn’t the first time someone has told him that.
From the Hill:
During a press conference earlier in the day with Rudy Giuliani, Powell made the allegation that Denver-based Dominion Voting Systems used technology developed by former Venezuelan President Hugo Chávez, who died in 2013. She claimed votes were manipulated while being tabulated overseas to favor President-elect Joe Biden. There is no evidence to the claim that votes were manipulated and it has been criticized by a number of conservative officials, including Sen. Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), who on Thursday called it “absolutely outrageous.”
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Carlson claimed that he reached out to Powell, asking that she provide evidence to her claims and that he was willing to give her as much time on his show, Don’t I Look Pretty, Daddy, which airs exclusively on Republican PornHub, to make her case.
He said her claim “could amount to the single greatest crime in American history” if it were true, according to the Hill.
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“When we kept pressing, she got angry and told us to stop contacting her,” Carlson said. “When we checked with others around the Trump campaign, people in positions of authority, they told us Powell has never given any evidence either. Nor did she provide any today.”
Carlson noted that Powell claimed that electronic voting had been switching votes from Trump to Biden, and you know if this had been true, Carlson would’ve been all over it.
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Then Carlson, with a straight face, looked at the viewers of his show, I Hope You Brought Some Syrup?, which can be found on Republican SpankBang, and said: “We care what’s true, and we know you care, too.”
The Hill notes that “Powell responded to Carlson’s comments, telling the Washington Examiner that she encourages journalists to ‘review all the materials’ and ‘conduct their own investigations.’
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“Evidence continues to pour in, but a 5 minute television hit is not my focus now. Collecting evidence and preparing the case are my top priorities.”
So you can make these wild-ass claims without any evidence and then claim after you’ve disgraced the entire election process that you are still conducting your own investigation?
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The Hill notes that during the now infamous press conference in which Rudy Giuliani’s human face mask began melting, that no one produced any evidence to support any of their wild-ass claims.
Meanwhile, Biden and Vice-President-elect Kamala Harris are doing the hard work of debating who won last night’s Verzuz battle between Gucci Mane and Jeezy.