Embracing a reemerging icon: Whitney Houston

Everyone has family members who have acted out in ways that would cause some members of the family to be downright embarrassed and humiliated. Being careful of passing judgment, these are the ones who relentlessly seek attention, constantly have problems after the next or just simply make those “what could you have been possibly thinking about”-type decisions. In some instances, their choices could potentially tarnish the upstanding legacy of the family. What I admire about my race is that we often have a heart of extending redemptive love to those who need it most. Instead of shunning our family members or speaking ill, we politely express our sentiments of unhappiness with their actions and encourage them to rectify their behavior. Some members exude tough love. Others stand in the background offering cheers of how to rise above their painful situation.

We all are aware of Whitney Houston’s past. At a very young age, she rose to stardom because of her singing abilities. She captured the attention of millions of fans worldwide through her crossover appeal, and she was offered several lead roles in films – becoming an amazing actress. However, she later faced public scrutiny because of her admitted drug use and failed marriage. You may recall back in 2005 when she made regular appearances on Being Bobby Brown; the show epitomized the obvious –Houston was being hit hard with the vicissitudes of life.

Houston does not ride solo in public exile. Others such as: Chris Brown, former NAACP Youth and College Director turned Baltimore preacher Rev. Jamal-Harrison Bryant, Michael Vick (among a host of other athletes – Ron Artest, OJ Simpson) and R. Kelly have all had to endure such unrestricted opinion.

Listening to Vivica Fox on the Wendy Williams Show last week when she spoke of the Chris Brown apology inspired me to write this entry. She said that “[Chris] has a tremendous amount of talent and a bright future. He made a mistake… when I see him I will embrace him and give him a hug”.

Bishop Jakes wrote in a press release regarding his son, Jermaine, that “in spite of the family pain we feel from this unfortunate situation, it has given us a chance to show him the same help, support, and restorative grace for which our family and church is noted.”

One of the biggest conduits for championing those who have fallen has been my Big Ma. She instilled in me that that while I might not agree with someone’s behavior or past mistakes, to always “be careful for nothing”. Perhaps my struggles are not public. Truthfully speak, I too have found myself on the dark Damascus Road and needed someone to embrace and love me. Therefore, I have to firmly support Whitney, the legend. I truly believe that her best days are ahead of her!

I L o o k t o Y o u

1. Million Dollar Bill

2. Nothin' But Love

3. Call You Tonight

4. I Look To You

5. Like I Never Left (feat. Akon)

6. A Song For You

7. I Didn't Know My Own Strength

8. Worth It

9. For The Lovers

10. I Got You

11. Salute

Blog Name Change: The Barber's Chair (TBC)

Taking the summer months off from blogging has been extremely relaxing.

During this two month sabbatical, I have been able to gather new thoughts, enjoy a few new reads, and also assess the reason why I enjoy blogging so much. By this time, you may have noticed that the name of the blog has changed to "The Barber's Chair". Changing the name was easy. Sitting at the barbershop one day, I recalled a conversation with my grandfather before he passed. He mentioned that the barbershop, back in his day, was the primary outlet for black men (especially) to engage in open conversations without fear of being restrained by their counterparts. When black men felt isolated and their voices where not heard, they used the barbershop as an avenue to uplift each other. This was regarded as their “community”. And to date, the black barbershop remains the same.

Going into a black-owned barbershop at any given moment (except Mondays – when most are closed), you very well might witness barbers acting as unscripted facilitators while many patrons provide feedback on the many topics of the hour. Perhaps the conversation may have changed from earlier times in history, the ultimate outlet remains unbroken.

Further, the black barbershop often gives men a sense of culture. This is one place where black men are able to express their likes and disgruntles in a free environment. Often, you might see someone coming in the shop rendering their services, asking to post a business card or selling a bootleg. This is embraced and very much encouraged.

So I extend this invitation for you to gather around the barber’s chair (TBC), and engage in meaningful conversation!

I'm back!

Sexy Spec & Pretty Ricky

I need not receive more texts asking if I've seen the Sexy Spec & Pretty Ricky video. I'm not sure what all the hype is all about. It's just a male performer dancing with clothes. I don't get it. Here goes:

From the Projects to the Supreme Court

President Obama nominated Sonia Sotomayor to the nation’s highest court on yesterday. If elected, she will become the first Latina and third woman to serve on the Supreme Court.

Her academic success and law records were enough reasons alone for her to be selected. In his revealing speech, Obama credited her background and her amazing story from the Bronx projects, to becoming a judge as highlights of her accomplishments.

Sotomayor, raised in the housing project, graduated from Princeton University and Yale Law School. She is a competent and smart judge - who inspires all, just like President Obama to "not despise the days of small beginnings".

Some are already labeling her a racist. However, she simply stated that because of her race, she has had different experiences than her counterparts. As a result, she would be able to have a broader picture of people from all walks of life (i.e. from people who lives in the projects to those who are stockbrokers and lawmakers) when making decisions from the bench. She may have poorly selected her words - perhaps she could have said "because of my humble experiences…” – nonetheless let’s get her confirmed. She's the business.

top three tuesday

top three shows:

Fashion Show
College Hill
Taking the Stage

Do you watch Cheaters?

This episode of Cheaters is hilarious. She chases him in the restroom and beats him with her shoe. Relationships will make you do some crazy things!

Education in America

Strong American Schools released some startling facts about our public school system. Did you know that –

• 1.2 million students drop out of high school every year


• ¼ of high school students do not graduate on time


• 70% of 8th graders can’t read at grade level


• 2/3 of jobs require a college education


• The majority of employers and college professors say today’s high school graduates do not have the skills to succeed. The majority of high school graduates say they regret not learning more in high school.

Source: www.strongamericanschools.org

Memorial Day Gratitude

Thank you to all the soldiers that have fought and continue to fight for our freedom on a daily basis. These women and men make it easier for us to live in a safe America.

Sunday's Song

He called 9-1-1 for what?

BEDFORD, Ohio (AP) -– An Ohio man who argued with his grown son over a messy bedroom said he overreacted when he called 911. Andrew Mizsak called authorities after his 28-year-old son — who's a school board member in the Cleveland suburb of Bedford — threw a plate of food across the kitchen table and made a fist at him when told to clean his room.

The son, also named Andrew, lives in a room in his parents' basement. The father declined to press charges and told police he doesn't want to ruin his son's political career. The son, who also works as a political consultant, said he's lucky to be living in the house rent free. He also promises to keep his room clean.

1st Black NASA administrator, hopefully

President Obama announced on Saturday that he has selected Charles Bolden, 62, to lead NASA. Bolden, a former astronaut, if confirmed, will become NASA's first black administrator. Bolden has an extensive resume. He has been to space at least 4 times.

"Ego" - Beyonce Official Video

T.I says "wait"

Rapper T.I. is scheduled to turn himself in by noon one day after Memorial Day to serve a 366-day sentence in prison. He is now appealing to remain free until prision officials can find a prison closer to his home. There's no word on whether officials will honor his request.

Queen & Lil Rounds

This is the Queen at 39. I have to admit, she is looking fly. I'm rather impressed... former rapper, turned actress; now reppin as spokeswoman for Covergirl.

Dick Cheney... go away!

Yesterday, former Vice President Dick Cheney cordially attacked the president's position on closing Guantanamo Bay. He claims that the U.S. will be less safe if we decide to close the prison facility that houses those who are claimed to be a threat to our national security. He also doesn't believe that third-world countries would want to take over housing these inmates because they have not agreed to do so in the past. Perhaps other countries were not on board because the Bush Administration had few allies. President Obama's administration is now advocating world peace and bridging the gaps of those torn relationships that Dick Cheney and his colleagues were responsible for ripping apart.

I strongly believe that we have to uphold fair and equal justice - even to those who are considered an eminent threat. This is the only way we are going to retain our powerful and respected position in the world. Housing these inmates in a federal prison would be just as safe. President Obama credits that there has never been a breakout in one of these high maximum security prisons. Furthermore, intense and harsh interrogation is not only unethical, but it also tarnishes the reputation of this great nation and what she stands for. Several studies also conclude that these unlawful interrogations causes people to admit to crimes they never committed.

This will be an interesting development to see if the Democratic Party will support the POTUS efforts to close Guantanamo Bay.

First Lady Pic of the Week

Stunning strut!

5 Birmingham Police Officers Fired

Straight from the Associated Press...

(AP) Five Birmingham police officers were fired Wednesday for beating an unconscious suspect ejected from a car after a chase, an attack captured on a patrol car videotape that didn't surface publicly for a year.

Police Chief A.C. Roper said the officers, who were not identified, were seasoned veterans but acted in a "shameful" manner. The video shows police pursuing Anthony Warren's van on Jan. 23, 2008. One officer on foot was hurt when the van swerved through traffic. It overturned on a ramp, ejecting Warren, who lay motionless as officers ran toward him. The video shows them beating him with their fists, feet and a billy club.

Blacks Graduating College

Black students that have enrolled in higher education is creeping up to meeting all-time high numbers; however, the Department of Education shows that only 43% of black students who begins college graduate - compared to the 63% of white students.

In 2006, NCAA released figures of the schools with the highest black graduates in the nation:

Harvard University - 95%
Amherst College - 94%
Princeton University - 94%
Wellesley College - 94%
Williams College - 94%
Brown University - 92%
Yale University - 92%
Washington University - 91%
Stanford University - 90%

... the next question is - exactly how many black students are enrolled at the aforementioned schools? Also, it would be interesting to know the schools that had the lowest percentages...

Lunch discussion.

Jay Z demands a lot from the University of Arizona

If you want Jay Z to perform, be ready to dish out some good dough. He earned $750,000 to perform at the University of Arizona, recently. Here is what his staff requested that the university provide him (besides the $750,000)

-1 late model black Mayback 57 or 62 with tinted windows ($400,000 luxury vehicle)
-2 six packs of Sapporo beer in bottles
-1 750 milliliter bottles of Belvedere Vodka
-2 750 milliliter bottle of Patron Silver Tequila
-2 Bottles 2004 Sassicaia - Red, Italian Wine from Bolgheri Region
-2 Bottles Armand de Brignac Champagne aka "Ace of Spades" and ice buckets
-2 quarts each of orance and cranberry juice
-1 hot tea service
-8 glasses, wine glasses
-12 glass, champagne glasses
-1 martini shaker
-12 glass, shot glasses
-1 pack marlboro lights hard pack (box)
-1 package of lighters

-2 cases (48) of small bottles of Fiji water (24-cold/24-room temp)
-6 cans "Coca-Cola"
-6 cans Red Bull
-6 bottles of vitamin water in assorted flavors

Dressing Room:-hold 8 people
private acccess to a minimum of 1 shower, toilet, washing facilities, with hot and cold running water
-desired temperature is 72F
-Table and floor lamps rather than overhead lights
-1 large couch
-1 love seat
-2 matching end tables
-2 lamps
-6' banquet tables with tablecloths for catering
-4 standard folding chairs
-1 full length mirror
-1 rolling wardrobe rack
-1 humidifier
-1 microwave

top three tuesday

Boyfriend #2
Knock you down
Ice cream paint job

Two more:
Franky
Birthday sex

College Hill

So much for reality TV.

Apparently the ratings are slipping or something over at BET ‘cause there’s just a little bit too much Kyle-drama on this season of College Hill. Of course drama brings in viewers (that's why I tune in every Tuesday), but Kyle is just over the edge. With his "it's all about me" mentality and taking a minor situation and blowing it way out of proportion, he's definitely playing a character role… alter-ego Keisha. Almost as if he's trying to make a name post-College Hill.

Just this last show, he tripped out over somebody eating his ribs. This had to be like one of the stupidest episodes I've seen. Paul sold Kay out. Recalling from previous shows, he was the one who made it a point to bring up how "things are done in his hood" back home and how Allison shouldn't snitch. So yeah, it kinda confused me when he ratted her out.

Another one of Kyle's antics is when he told Allison that she helped commit a crime for watching someone eat his ribs. Ah... Then, there's more backbiting than anything. It seems like everyone is looking out for Kyle, when every argument on the show, he's some way involved. I really couldn't believe that Tiffany would show the letter that Allison wrote to Kay, which started out with "wifey". What’s that all about?

So I can't wait til tonight to see what's gonna happen. Is Paul and Kay gonna get together? Who will Kyle fight with? Just have to wait and see...

Oh, one more thing - did yall see when Kyle made Kay put his $10 in the microwave (the place where his ribs were "stolen" from)? lol too much Miss Kyle!

Ice Cream Paint Job

Franky

Notre Dame Controversy

President Dr. Obama, as he addressed the 2009 class of the University of Notre Dame, was interrupted 4 times by pro-life hecklers. President Obama accepted an honorary law degree and delivered the graduating commencement speech.

"These honorary degrees are hard to come by... so far, I'm only 1 of 2 as President," Obama said joking about not receiving an honorary degree from Arizona State University earlier this month. Instead, campus officials decided to have a scholarship named after him.

It amazes me that some felt that the President of the nation should have never been invited to the campus. His appearance was clouded by pro-life critics - who intentionally were arrested to make a point.

It is extremely disappointing to know that these students who worked hard for many years studying, only to have the biggest day of the end of their undergraduate days interrupted by people who wanted to inject politics into such a momentous occasion. While I agree that people who have strong beliefs should protest, but these protesters went too far.

I absolutely enjoyed watching Father Jenkins (my hero) handle the scene. He said that the community, public officials and students should use the opportunity of the POTUS coming to campus to "engage in responsible and reasonable dialogue". After all, this is what higher learning is all about. Some may side with pro-choice; others with pro-life - this is what makes us a melting pot of ideas.

President Obama said in his speech, "We are not going to shy away from things that are uncomfortable sometimes."

Whether you agree or disagree with abortions and embryonic stem cell research, one thing that we can take away from this is what Father Jenkins said in his introduction of the President: President Obama is not someone who stops talking to those who differs with him.

Gratefulness

Yesterday, I took about an 8-hour sabbatical from life and her daily responsibilities; releasing me to rest and not think about the impending tasks that needs to be accomplished in the coming days. Thinking – it would be great to have a four day workweek and a three day weekend. I would like that! Having one to a day and a half to handle situations that cannot be resolved throughout the workday is challenging.

Right now, I am up and getting ready to head out to church. I am definitely reminded of God’s grace on a daily basis. Sometimes I get caught up in doing me; however, He quickly reminds me of His love when I am flaky and inconsistent. Getting caught up in wanting to have a successful career, continuing my education and overcoming insurmountable obstacles – usually brings me to my knees to give the honor to the Creator for shining on me.

Before I start a sermon ;), I need to head and shower. Church is in an hour. I'll leave you all with a YouTube video of Fantasia singing "Total Praise".



Have a great day, peeps!

*knockout*

what a life

Ahhh. Thank God for the weekend. Situations have been mounting, and I finally have time to take a break, relax and sort through some ambiguous opportunities. Life is so strange... seems like one day everything is all mapped out and the next, it'll leave you wondering if you need a backup plan to make it through. Honestly, these past few months have been extremely chaotic. Juggling work, school and friendships can be a tad bit demanding. So yeah - this weekend is well deserved!

So what's new with me? Currently, I'm trying to get some articles published on students matriculating through college with chronic illnesses; the challenges and struggles of the next generation. Researching the similarities and contrasting principles of this decade to previous ones is quite interesting, to say the least.

So relationships - ah, I didn't even know that word still existed. I'm slowly becoming a pessimist when it comes to finding a "ying to my yang". If I start elaborating on this, I'm afraid that I'll sound like an angry old man. So I'ma leave this one alone! :-) Nonetheless, I'm slowly starting to come around to this city. I'm having a sort of difficult time establishing solid friendships. This can be a task in itself.

Well, I am off to listen to some good ole Patti Labelle and catch up on my girl O.

*knockout*

Letter to NAACP on Cartoon Depiction

NAACP, I definitely stand behind you all on this issue. The cartoonist and the editorial staff made an extremely poor judgment to post such a racial insensitive. A publication such as this further divides America and opens the wound of racial degradations. This thoughtless act should not be tolerated, jokingly or not. It has been America's goal for some time for blacks and whites to rise above the hurtful separating times to become a beacon of hope for the next generation. Please America: we can do better; we want to reach a new tide of positive expectations.