We’ve been blessed with another Monday, aren’t you glad!? This weekend I had the opportunity to rest and spend time with some very dear friends. There’s nothing like being greeted with hugs and kisses from people who are genuinely happy to see you.

Here we go…!!

From The Headlines…

“Mitt Romney 2011 Tax Return To Be Released By October 15” - Yes, you’ve read that correctly, and No it’s not the returns he’s been badgered about. What will be released weeks before the election are his 2011 tax returns. I know, I know, we thought he did that already didn’t we? What he actually released was his 2010 tax information, along with an estimate of his 2011 return. (Hmmm…anyone else see the discrepancy here??) Also to note, his running mate has released the Romney-standard 2 years of his tax returns. And before you ask, no Romney still isn’t releasing more than the 2 years.

“Coming to a Theater Near You: J. Lo in 3D!” - This is just asking for it! Justin and Katy did great with their concert movies. Maybe I’ve missed something, but I don’t recall hearing about a mob of people trying to get the latest J. Lo album, concert ticket, or anything for that matter! Stay in your lane Jennifer! (The one that doesn’t exist!)

“Woman Sues for Billions Because Parking Meters Make Her Sick” - A woman in Santa Monica, CA is suing the city because she claims the newly installed parking meters have caused ear infections and neck pains. She’s asking for $1.7 million for each month the meters have been installed – good luck with that!

“Sparkle Didn’t Shine” – The movie came in 5^th on the Box Office list, making $12 million in its release weekend. I’m guessing they were hoping with it being the final movie of Whitney Houston, the theaters would have been packed with her fans. I’m personally waiting for the crowds to die down…maybe this weekend!

Bookshelf

Next on the of Top 50 titles from/by African Americans is “Breath, Eyes, Memory” by Adwidge Danticat. This fresh Haitian writer has the power to pull you into a story. This story tells of a young girl that is transported from her home in Haiti to her mother, a woman she barely remembers in New York. Secrets, truths, and heartache lace this riviting story from beginning to end. Enjoy! Available on Barnes & Noble in paperback and NOOK Book!

Something to Think About…

How do you define success? Is it making a lot of money? Perhaps it’s reaching a career or academic goal? Whatever your definition, how does it define you? (Hmmm….)

 ‘Til next time!

 Quote of the day

“Sometimes I worry about being a success in a mediocre world.”  ~Lily Tomlin

Hey Everybody! There’s something magical in the air – it could be the cinnamon-sugar I put in my coffee but it feels nice. I want to thank you all for reading my blog. Although I share them on Facebook and Twitter, I may forget so please take a moment to sign on as a member – this way you’re notified as soon as I post.….Okay!?

Let’s do it…!!

Politics…

If I had the time, I would write a political blog. Lucky for you, I don’t have the time (nor the patience) but there are plenty out there for you to weed through. I’ll keep mine to a brief appearance here and there. So, Romney has chosen his VP, Rep. Paul Ryan (R-WI) (ooooh – ahhhh!) As with anything relating to politics (or anything else for that matter) there are those who are totally on board, and those that are completely against it. Because Romney has yet to make his views clear, the choice of his running mate is still causing confusion – sort of. It has been argued by more than a few that Mitt Romney is the GOP’s puppet. Some say this choice of Ryan as his running mate is more proof. Some predict Ryan will out-shine Romney during the campaign because he’s smart, thinks for himself and he understands policies. Romney on the other hand is still afraid to speak to the press or answer questions directly regarding. What has been interestingly highlighted is how Paul Ryan has fallen in sync with Romney with the bob and weave tactic of NOT answering questions directly about budget plans and certain views the American people are concerned with. The both skirt around questions that force him to come clean on any one topic (sounds familiar??) What is also at the forefront is their budget ideas seem to collide. Previously Romney promised to keep/improve Medicare while Ryan’s previous budget plan wipes it out. True to form, they’re both tight-lipped on their joint budget plans – The Mystery Budget (sounds like a new Reality Show!) The Democrats (and their supporters) seem to have rolled up their sleeves in anticipation for the fight ahead. Let the games begin!     

Real Quick

Pennsylvania needs to be ashamed of themselves, along with the Republican Party members that supported the outrageous ruling yesterday in favor of the Voter ID laws. The meticulous hurdles the people of PA must jump over in order to exercise their RIGHT to vote is disgusting and appalling. Republicans have stooped to an all new low in order to win this election. This should ignite the fire within us all to get out and VOTE this November! More on this as it develops…

Pop Some Popcorn!



"Blackenstein"

Two more movies from the Blaxploitation Top 50 list number 46 “Blackenstein” (I’m still getting over the title!) Yes, it is based on the other “stein” and was released in 1973, a year after the more popular “Blacula” (I see you all shaking your heads in pity…I am too). This film starred Joe De Sue and Ivory Stone in the title roles. I tried to imagine the filming process for this one, what would have been Mr. De Sue’s motivation in those gripping screens in all that makeup? (I’m cracking up!) If nothing else, this should give you a good old-fashioned laugh!



Theatrical Poster

Number 45 is with Rudy Ray Moore returns in the 1976 hit “The Human Tornado” a sequel to his first movie of the same “Dolomite” (later on the list). In this film, Moore (Dolomite) must deal with a local sheriff that’s out to get him, head to California to rescue ‘Queen Bee’ played by Lady Reed and recapture her…uhh “establishment” (figure it out!) all while keeping his unabated cool. I’ve never seen or heard any of Dolomite’s material, but I’ve been told it’s pretty racy. So, chances are I will pass on this one, but knock yourselves out!

Something to Think About…

If you’re given the opportunity to be kind today (which you will be given many!), take it! Your smile, thoughtful gesture, or helping hand just may be the catalyst to someone’s sanity. You never know…you may be on the receiving end one day.

 ‘Til next time!

 Quote of the day

“It's nice to be important, but it's more important to be nice.” ~Author Unknown

Hump Day - The middle of a work week; used in the context of climbing a proverbial hill to get through a tough week. I look at Wednesday as a virtual sliding board, to which I get to slide down into the weekend!

Let’s do it…!!

Sparkle vs. Sparkle

As a fan of originality, I’m not always on board for remakes, covers, etc. The latest being the remake of the film “Sparkle” The original was released in 1976 and starred Lonette McKee as sultry ‘Sister’ (how many of you started calling your big sister “Sister” after seeing this!?) Irene Cara gave a convincing performance as the innocent “Sparkle” and Dwan Smith gave a griping portrayal of the ‘other sister’ as Delores. Now considered a cult classic, who can forget the tragic scene of Sister succumbing to her pimp of a boyfriend Satin when he felt she didn’t thank him for the fur coat? Or the heartbreaking task of Sparkle getting Sister’s ‘fix’ because, “Sister can’t fly on only one wing.” And the soundtrack produced by the musical genius Curtis Mayfield that included the queen herself Aretha Franklin singing “Something He Can Feel” (later covered by En Vogue) and “Hooked On Your Love” just to name a couple. There was, and still is a little heat about the actual movie score not being released. Maybe somebody will (I’m going to see if I can pull the songs from my DVD – I’ll keep you posted!)

Now we have the remake of this classic coming out Friday. The biggest buzz of course, it is sadly, Whitney Houston’s last piece of work as the trio’s mother, ‘Emma’ (Effie in the original). Starring as ‘Sparkle’ is Jordin Sparks (was that done on purpose??) Mike Epps as ‘Satin’ (really???) Derek Luke as ‘Stix’ (remember Phillip Michael Thomas – pre Miami Vice!) Carmen Ejogo as ‘Sister’ and Tika Sumpter as ‘Delores’ I haven’t heard anything about the substance of the film other than we’re going to be blown away by our dearly missed Whitney’s rendition of “His Eye is On The Sparrow”  The soundtrack is receiving some lackluster reviews. Comparing it to the Mayfield original is just unfair, but that’s what happens when you try to re-create greatness! Let’s talk about it next week after it opens…I’m curious to know what you think about it!

Pop Some Popcorn!



"Black Mama, White Mama"



I’m going to give you two movie titles from the Blaxploitation list today (and maybe going forward) number 48 “Black Mama, White Mama” released in 1972 and starring the vivacious Pam Grier (she got top billing even in the title!) She plays a prostitute sentenced to a women’s prison on some remote third-world island. Chained to another woman (yes, she’s the White Mama!) they escape and thus begins the adventure! Brace yourself for the campy cat fights!



"Hell Up In Harlem"

Number 47 is “Hell Up In Harlem” with the football star-turned movie actor, Fred Williamson, Gloria Hendry, Julius Harris, and Margaret Avery (Shug!!). Williamson returns in this sequel to “Black Caesar” (later on the list) and delivers the goods in this action packed flick – complete with corny one-liners and the hippest threads on the screen. (I told you I was bringing ‘Hip’ back!) Enjoy!

Something to Think About…

Take a moment today to enjoy the day. If you’re working, and your surroundings accommodates (and weather), eat your lunch outside. Take 10 minutes and just muse on the goodness of the day. Clear out the negative and navigate some positivity to flow into your spirit. I dare you to allow yourself to have a peaceful moment today.

‘Til next time!

 Quote of the day

“"I must do something" always solves more problems than "Something must be done.”” ~Author Unknown

Do you recall all those sayings your parents or elders used to say to you when you were a kid that made absolutely no sense, but now that you’re older, you get it? I had one of those revelations this morning. When I was a teenager and needed a ride somewhere, I would ask my mother-naturally. And just as naturally, she would tell me “No, I don’t feel like driving for everybody today. Take the bus.” I would look at her confused because I hadn’t asked her to take the neighborhood, just me. She then explained, “I don’t feel like dealing with all those drivers out there that aren’t paying attention…which means I have to drive for them too.” Today as I swerved around a driver that felt the need to bend over fumble inside his glove box on I-95 this morning, I remembered my mother and I TOTALLY get what she meant!

Here we go…!!

Who’s the Victim…

Dating as far back as possible, we are fascinated with celebrities. We monitor their seemingly quick rise, and then everyone wince when they fall; the latter being more glamorized and sensationalized with our ever-growing media. The latest is Lauren Hill. It has been reported that she pled guilty for not paying taxes between 2005 and 2007. Her reason...because she chose to withdraw from society, and hence didn’t feel she should pay taxes.  You can read her response to the charges she posted on her Tumblr page here. She returns to court in November for sentencing where she faces up to 3 years of jail time. I will also add that according to a statement from her lawyer, she plans to pay the taxes owed. So, now that there’s jail time in the wings, she’s willing to pay the taxes. I always find it interesting when those who have made millions and then get caught/punished for not paying taxes have one or two reasons. One, they didn’t know – the famous “Blame the Accountant” excuse. The other is “This country and its regulations are wrong and I want no part of it, so I’m not paying taxes” excuse. Both excuses are just that, excuses and nothing was heard when they were spending the money, and demanding more of it. Suck it up! Pay your taxes like the rest of us!

Bookshelf

Today’s title is 3^rd on the list of Top 50 titles from/by African Americans. “Before You Suffocate Your Own Fool Self” is a collection of shorts by Danielle Evans. I already know this one will be a personal favorite, as I am a lover of short stories. The overview on Barnes & Noble states it is about “…young African-American and mixed-race teens, women, and men struggling to find a place in their families and communities.” A little something for everybody! This title is also available as a NOOK Book. Let me know what you think!

Something to Think About…

When you know you’re on the right path, there’s a euphoric-type feeling that navigates your days. If you’re paying attention, it precedes your presence. People begin to notice there’s ‘something’ about you that is different. Those who love you relish in it and encourage you to continue with whatever you’re doing. Those who are against you complain that you’ve changed and tell you that you should remember where you came from. Who do you listen to?

‘Til next time!

 Quote of the day

“It takes courage to grow up and become who you really are.”  ~E.E. Cummings

Monday, Monday…I never really knew the words to that song. Anyway, what’s happening people!? Hope you all enjoyed the weekend. The weather on the East Coast started out a little dodgy, but shaped up rather nicely. It was so nice yesterday I passed on my routine nap. (I’m paying for it now though!)

Let’s get to it…!!

Farewell London!

Did you watch the closing ceremonies!? I thought it was a great show…probably because I knew most of the songs (don’t judge me!) The final events were monumental. The Women’s Basketball pulled it off, winning their 5^th consecutive Gold Medal. The Men’s team gave me a little scare, but held on and came away with the Gold in Kobe’s final Olympic appearance.

Here’s the final tally of Medals Count, in order of Gold Medals won: USA- 46 Gold; China- 37 Gold; Great Britain-29 Gold; Russia-24 Gold; Korea-12 Gold. Great job by ALL the athletes – see you (some of you) in 4 years!

Now Back To Your Normal Programming…

With the Olympics ending last night, Prime-Time television will resume. I know, not much there by way of substance. Unless you’re a fan of Reality TV (which I am NOT), there isn’t much to choose from. The reality of Reality TV is about as real as the hair cascading down some of those women’s backs. Yes, everybody has a story, and yes some need their stories told more than others. But do we really need to see the cat-fights, name calling, and fake brawls that take place on just about every episode? The gamut has run full course from ex-wives of male celebrities from different genres of entertainment that are conveniently best buddies for the sake of a film crew; to a manly looking woman who sounds like Harvey Fierstein (seriously!) with enough drama going on to land her very own contract and own show – which is how most of these shows are created.

There is nothing “Real” about these shows. Most are embarrassing...Ahh, why do I even bother! This is August so there is promise of a “new season” of television. Just like every year, I’m sure there will be a new hospital-based choice where the doctors are all showing more cleavage than necessary (male and female!) And of course what’s a Fall Prime-Time lineup without a seedy courtroom drama with the prosecutors are sleeping with each other and the judge is on somebody’s payroll. (sigh…) Give me PBS any day!

Pop Some Popcorn!

How did you fare with “Shaft in Africa”? I know, I know…it’s entertaining if nothing else you have to admit! Coming in at number 49 on the Top 50 of the best Blaxploitation Movies of all time is “Disco Godfather.” I have to be honest and admit I had never heard of this movie. It stars the infamous Rudy Ray Moore (yes, that one!) and Carol Speed. Released in 1979, Moore plays a retired cop-turned celebrity DJ and vows revenge on the dope dealers responsible for his nephew’s demise after obtaining the new drug on the street “PCP” aka “Angel Dust.” I’m going to have to rely on you all for this one until I can find a copy. If anybody comes across a source before I do, share the knowledge so that we can all cringe together!

Wrap up…

While watching TV over the weekend, previews of the new NFL season flashed across the screen with the season opener airing Wednesday, September 5th! (can you see me smiling?)

‘Til next time!

 Quote of the day

“Most football players are temperamental.  That's 90 percent temper and 10 percent mental.”  ~Doug Plank 

Happy Friday!! It’s something about Friday that makes me want to dance a little jig (seriously!) I get up with an extra pep in my step knowing this is the last day of another work-week. The day before my favorite day – Saturday, and if I’m lucky I’ll be able to coast through the day without a hitch. Hope you can do the same! We’ve got a new member…welcome aboard “Sherri" !!!

Here we go…!!

From the Headlines…(yes, these are actual headlines people!)

“Is Diddy Headed To The ‘American Idol’ Panel?” – Who cares!!! The show has obviously run its course! They’ve managed to finagle a contract with Mariah Carey to judge and are now trying to find two more in order to keep with the original format. More success has been accomplished by those that DID NOT win which proves to me…who are we to judge? (Pun intended!)

“Usher’s Karaoke Night Caught On Tape” - And this is headline news because…..I mean, seriously. There aren’t any rules (per say) to karaoke, you just need the guts to get up there and belt out the song – right? Usher’s song of choice? The Jackson 5’s “I’ll Be There” – of course!

“What if Fonts Could Talk?” – What???? I’m not even going to bother. I’ll let you work with that one…

 

Make Some Popcorn!



"Shaft In Africa"

In the same fashion as the Top 50 Books by African Americans, I found a list of the same number of the best Blaxploitation Movies of all time! While some of these are true classics, most are just really bad acting!  But, nonetheless, they’re entertaining and in their heyday, were Box Office hits! Not to mention, produced some the hottest music in Soul history! Starting from #50, is “Shaft In Africa” starring Richard Roundtree and Vonetta McGee. Released in 1973, this is the third installment of the hit “Shaft” trilogy (also on this list). The promo for the film announced “The Brother Man in the Motherland”…cheesy I know, but very hip for ’73! (Hip! I'm bringing that back!)

Now before you get all twisted about the portrayal of our brothers and sister in these movies I’ll be sharing, take a moment and remember they were not forced to act in these films. These actors and actresses read the scripts and cashed the checks. Just watched them with a big bowl of popcorn and be grateful to the fact that we’ve come a long way Baby!

Olympics

Another historical moment! Claressa Shields became the first Woman to win Gold in the debut of Women’s Boxing! The 17 year old middle-weight defeated her 33 year old Russian opponent with a 19-12 decision. Despite the backlash it has received, I believe women’s boxing has earned the respect of many nations. Great job ladies!

USA continues to hold on to the lead over China, passing them in the Gold count. Let’s go! Here’s the Medals count top 5: USA-90 (39 Gold); China-80 (37 Gold); Great Britain-54 (25 Gold); Russia-56 (12 Gold); Germany-37 (10 Gold). Go TeamUSA!

Wrap up…

We’ve made it through another week, and another Olympics! Sunday is the last day of the games, as well as the day of the Closing Ceremony. I missed the last Olympic closing, so I’m looking forward to this one. The theme is “A Symphony of British Music” and insiders say the best of London’s musical talents will grace the stage. Rumored (and photographed) is a reunion of the Spice Girls! (are we ready for that??) George Michael, the Pet Shop Boys, Annie Lennox, and Jessie J. The big speculation is Adele – will she or will she not perform? (is this really a surprise!?) In any case, the big finale is Sunday at 4 P.M. ET - Enjoy!

‘Til next time!

 Quote of the day

“If your work speaks for itself, don't interrupt.”  ~Henry J. Kaiser

Sunset After Work...

What started out as a good day leveled off to me being put on “Time Out”  It seemed like a memo was distributed to get on my nerves this afternoon! I’m a little sleep-deprived so I’ll confess that I was a bit snippy, but instead of totally losing it, I turned to my corner and didn't come out until it was time to go home. Spending some much needed time by the water and watching the sunset helped settle my nerves…

Let’s go…

What in the world??

Apparently, getting arrested for marijuana possession in Vermont doesn’t sit well with the locals. One Roger Pion didn’t appreciate getting arrested for his transgressions and decided to do something about it. After reading this article I wonder if Mr. Pion’s buzz clouded his judgment when he decided to take a tractor and run over 7 patrol cars and 1 personal vehicle. And that’s not the funny part - they were unable to go after him! But again, he was traveling in a tractor so with a top speed of what, 25 MPH? They caught up to him and yep, arrested him again! I can’t make this stuff up…I probably should have put this under Entertainment...too funny!

Bookshelf

I read an article the other day that encouraged the inner-reader in me. It listed 50 titles by African-American authors that are must-reads. I thought I’d share them with you and hopefully you can share them with others. First on the list is “Anni Allen” by Poet Gwendolyn Brooks. The collection captures the experiences of a young black girl as she grows into woman. Brooks was the first Black author to win the Pulitzer Prize – check it out!

A great lead-in to my next topic; SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL LIBRARY!! I consider myself an avid reader and try to visit my library at least three times a month when my schedule permits it. Even if I don’t check out any books, I go just to hang out with the books for a few hours. With the popularity of eBooks, one may think libraries are no longer needed. I rebuke such an idea! Our libraries are the cornerstones of our communities. I challenge you all to take a stroll through the aisles of Fiction or Biographies. You’ll be surprised to see there’s a large DVD section that you can barrow – for FREE! Be sure to wear something bright for your library card picture!

Olympics

An upset in the games today – Lolo didn’t get her medal, but Dawn Harper pulled it out for the Silver. The true element of the games was displayed today in the form of China’s hurdler, Liu Xiang. He hit the first hurdle and went down. Unable to finish the race or exit the track stage right, he grimaced his way on one foot to the finish line where he was met by his fellow Hungary runner, Balazs Baji, who raised Liu’s hand in victory. The other runner made their way over as well and offered their support. True sportsmanship! USA is still behind China in the medal count, Let’s go! Here’s the Medals count top 5: China-73 (34 Gold): US-70 (30 Gold); Great Britain-48 (22 Gold); Russia-48 (10 Gold); Japan-29. Go TeamUSA!

Wrap up…

Psychologists say it takes at least five “Way to go’s!”  in order to overcome one “You stink.” Encourage somebody today, the benefits are priceless for the recipient AND you. Make a difference!

‘Til next time!

 Quote of the day

“A successful person is one who can lay a firm foundation with the bricks that others throw at him or her.” ~ David Brinkley