Blog Snatch: Because I'm a Solange Stan

A place for everything and everything in its place.

I'm still on the fence about whether celebrity "news" has a place here at Social Angst.  My general feeling is that this isn't the place for random celebrity gossip.  However, if a celeb is making a socially relevant contribution to the world, I will cover it.  Unfortunately, these rules are sometimes difficult to live by.  Being the Solange Stan that I am, I would love to report that the pictures of Solo over at Necole Bitchie are of some social importance, unfortunately they are not.  So, I guess I won't be commenting.


*Eyes Twinkling* 

 But I suppose I can call this a Blog Snatch and give you a link.  Click the pic below for more info. :-)

PS:  Since we got DJ Heroes last week I've really been wanting to go in my parents' garage and find dad's old set of Technics. - DJ.BRG

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Blog Snatch: BLACK MEN ARE GOOD ENOUGH Response to the Successful and Single Dateline Clip

Check out UppityNegroNetwork.com for a thoughtful response to the "Successful and Single" Dateline clip I posted yesterday.  The blog title alone - BLACK MEN ARE GOOD ENOUGH - says it all.

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In The News: Thriller & In The Jungle: Preserved by The Library of Congress

The Grio reports that The Library of Congress will induct Michael Jackson's Thriller and 12 Oxford Film's gang documentary The Jungle into the National Film Registry where they will be preserved for future generations.  The National Film Registry was established in 1989 with the charge of protecting America's film heritage and cinematic creativity*.  Visit The Hollywood Reporter to view the complete list of movies selected this year,  Find clips of Thriller and The Jungle for your consideration below.

The Jungle




Thriller

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Around The Web: HP Racist Claims Refuted

Over the last few days a tongue-in-cheek claim of racist HP hardware has gone viral as a video showing an HP monitor's inability to detect a Brown skinned person wound its way through the web. What started out as a humorous observation of "bias" became a blogosphere hot topic and I watched in a combination of dismay and amusement as bloggers went to task badmouthing the technology giant.

I on the other hand, have a sense of humor and recognized the initial youtube video for the comedy that it was.  I am also a logical minded person who recognized that the likelihood that a COMPANY WITH ANY INTENT OF FISCAL VIABILITY would PURPOSELY PRODUCE AND DISTRIBUTE BLATANTLY BIASED HARDWARE is almost nonexistent.  That just didn't make any sense.  Even the most racist businessman isn't that stupid. Anyway, it seems people were up in arms about nothing (I swear I read a blog that called its readers to boycott HP...), apparently it's not a melanin count issue, more than an issue of lighting (see the below clip for details).

We need to learn a lesson from this small but telling incident.  Accusations of racism are serious charges and should be used only when factually based.  When we spit charges of bias without objectivity, investigation, and substantiation we end up sounding like the race that cried wolf.



 

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Around The Web: Rare Historic Jazz Festival Recordings Restored and Available Online

I listen to jazz with my 91 year old Papa.  He digs my appreciation for the music and I appreciate any common ground we can bond over (especially when it deflects questions of  my ever impending nuptials).  This week I'm going to hit Papa with a few uncommon finds compliments of npr.com.  In NPR's weekly online jazz column Take Five, Josh Jackson,  tells us of a rare collection of 1959 Newport Jazz Festival recordings that have been restored and made available for purchase online at Wolfgang's Vault. There are some great American jazz favorites among the collection's featured artists, including Thelonious Monk, Dizzy Gillespie and Count Basie.  Below find some of the restored tracks for your consideration and enjoyment.


Thelonious Monk






Listen to the entire concert here.



Dizzy Gillespie





Listen to the entire concert here.


Count Basie




Listen to the entire concert here.

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Today's Feel Good Story A Once Homeless Man Helps Others Through Hard Times

Thanks to The Grio for sharing today's Feel Good Story.  Cecil Morris, Jr. used to be homeless.  Now, thanks to the Salvation Army, the former addict is no longer living on the streets of Mobile, Alabama.  Instead, he is working to improve the lives of other addicts in his local community. The inspiring story of his recovery and redemptive service as mentor and director of culinary arts can be viewed below.

Choosing to make a difference in the lives of others IS activism.

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

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Around The Web: NIGHTLINE Weighs in on "The Elusive Black Man Epidemic"

I'm sharing this though truthfully I don't want to.  In all honesty the following clip irked my nerves, so expect follow-up Social Angst commentary.  In the meantime, you can head to Belle who spoke on the clip today and join the conversation over there if you'd like. I'm going to continue to shake my head and search for the words to tackle this new "Black social epidemic"... *sigh*


     

       Black, Female, and Still Single - Watch more Politics Videos at Vodpod.

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Decade In Review: A Decade of Formative Black Entertainment.

While the state of Hip Hop maybe in dispute (it soared, committed suicide, was pronounced dead and is currently in the midst of a transformative resurrection), one thing that can't be refuted is the viability of Blacks in entertainment over this past decade.  Here's my list (in no particular order) of this decade's greatest in Black entertainment*:

(*Please note: that I am excluding Oprah from this list on the grounds that she is "Mary Poppins perfect" in any decade)

Tyler Perry:  Love him or hate him (I love him, no like really, really love him), Tyler Perry has been a force to be reckoned with over the last 10 years. In 2008 Perry became the first Black American to launch his own major TV/Film studio.  And if that's not enough for you, he is also on course to become a bonafide billionaire.  Now, there are some of you who will say that Perry's body of work reinforces negative Black stereotypes (we'll just have to agree to disagree) but even those among you who are so siddity that you can't see the value of Perry's cinematic offerings (yes, that's right, I'm calling you siddity) will have to admit that his resume (did I mention he OWNS the rights to ALL of his films)  is undeniably a work of unparalleled success.

Will Smith:  Before Barack Obama, there was Will, Black ambassador to White people.  Recently named Entertainer of the Decade (film), by Entertainment Weekly, Will's clean cut goofy charm has helped change the face of the summer blockbuster. In doing so, he has garnered the respect and professional pull to become one of the major players within the entertainment industry.  Since 2000 Will has starred in 11 major films - The Legend of Bagger Vance, Ali (for which he received a Best Actor Academy Award nomination).Men In Black II, Bad Boys II, I, Robot, Shark Tale, Hitch, The Pursuit of Happyness, I Am Legend, Hancock and Seven Pounds - earning no less than $10 million per role.  But his success as an actor goes far beyond his monetary compensation.  Will Smith has changed and continues to change how minority actors are viewed in Hollywood.  In 2008 he helped produce The Secret Lives of Bees, a sugary sweet story of race and color-blind affection, and he is currently working on the production of Karate Kid a remake of the classic.   

Sean (Jay-Z) Carter:  Let's start with the fact that he's 40-years old, because in the world of music, longevity is as scarce as an R&B singer who avoids Auto-Tunes.  Then let's add his 11 #1 albums - a record previously held by Elvis Presley - and mix in the fact that he has a net worth of $150 million making him #17 on the Forbes top 20 Wealthiest Black Americans and you still only get a glimpse as to why Jay is one of the most influential entertainers of the this decade.  This is a guy who makes things happen.  He told a t-shirt friendly generation of hip hoppers to grow up and changed the urban market sales of button-ups (note - no longer button-downs).  He dared producers to stop relying on Auto-Tunes to make hits and magically the world of hip hop began debating the technology for the vocally handicapped.   He has a command of influence  that very few of his peers can rival and a (sometimes cut throat) entrepreneurial gift that keeps him on the top of the entertainment media game.

Beyonce Knowles:  Realistically, a conversation regarding prominent Black entertainers cannot be complete without the mention of Ms. Beyonce Knowles.  Entertainment Weekly has named Knowles Entertainer of the Decade (music), a title that the young artist has worked diligently for over the last 10 years.  In the last decade Beyonce has made her mark in music, movies and fashion - her last album, Sasha Fierce receiving 10 Grammy nominations, her role as Deena Jones garnering her 2 Golden Globe nominations, and her fashion label House of Dereon doing relatively well since it was formed in 2004.  However, it is Beyonce's influence that has made her one of the most powerful people in entertainment.  Her very personality sells as evidenced by her lucrative Pepsi, Tommy Hilfiger, Armani and L'Oreal endorsement deals.  In fact, the young diva is so socially commanding that Forbes named her number four its 100 Most Powerful and Influential Celebrities list, number three its Top-Grossing Musicians list, and number one on its Best-Paid Celebs Under 30 list *.



The Neptunes:  Billboard Music's choice for the Best Producers of the Decade, Pharell Williams and Chad Hugo are the creative entities behind some of the best music to meet your ears.  In the last decade they have worked with some of the biggest names in music, including Jay-z, Madonna, Snoop, and Britney Spears.  According to Wikipedia, The Neptunes produced almost 20% of songs played on British radio and 43% of songs play on US radio.  In the last decade they have produced major mainstream radio hits including:  "I'm A Slave 4 U" (Britney Spears), "Hot In Herre" (Nelly), "Beautiful" (Snoop featuring Charlie Wilson), "I Just Wanna Love You (Give It To Me)" and "Excuse Me" (Jay-Z), "Shake It Fast" (Mystikal), and "Milkshake" (Kelis).

The Wire: It is one of the most critically acclaimed television shows ever created. Included on the Time list of 100 Best TV Shows of All Time, it is such poignantly realistic interpretation of impoverished urban America that William J. WIlson, a Harvard professor of sociology and African-American studies is slated to offer a class that will use the series as a case study for poverty in America. Wilson, (somewhat jokingly) states: "I do not hesitate to say that it has done more to enhance our understanding of the challenges of urban life and the problems of urban inequality, more than any other media event or scholarly publication...including studies by social scientitsts." Wilson is not overstating here.  Never before has a work of art so honestly depicted the plight of poor Black American communities than David Simon's series The Wire.  For five seasons Simon allows audiences an unexpectedly raw and honest look at the lives of drug slinging criminals, hero-complex plagued cops, crooked politicians, and a series of failing systems (law, education and media) so broken they may be impossible to fix.  Never has the dire state of poverty stricken urban America been so obvious than during an episode of the hour long drama.  The Wire is more than just television, it's substantially academic.

Tyra Banks: Model turned Mogul Tyra Banks has had turned herself into a recognizable brand over the last 10 years.  As a model, Tyra broke barriers as any model of color does entering the whitewashed industry of fashion.  However, it is her more recent accomplishments that have skyrocketed her from beauty to businesswoman.  With two successful shows (one of which - America's Next Top Model - has become the blueprint of fashion minded  reality spinoffs) under her belt and her new venture - Banakable Studios - Tyra is poised to be remembered for her business savvy as much as her famous bustline.  

Michael Jackson:  Forever and always there will only be one King of Pop, and even from the grave Michael Jackson substantiates why he alone is entitled to that crown.  His list of accomplishments is far to extensive for me to catalog here but his global philanthropic endeavors are among his greatest achievements.  He has be credited with supporting more charities than any other artist - 39 charitable organizations - either with monetary donations through sponsorships of their projects or participation in their activities *.  Announcement of his death earlier this year devastated millions nationally and even more abroad, yet even in death the pop star continues to set records.  It has been reported that ticket sales for This Is It, a documentary filled with footage of the late king as he prepared for his upcoming tour, broke advance ticket sale records, selling out shows months before the movie was slated to be released.

Honarable Mention:
TV One for helping to bring Black televsion programming out of the depths of coonery.

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In The News: Obama Speaks on Christmas Terror Attack Attempt

By now you've heard about the attempted terror attack that took place this past Christmas Day.  If you are only just now come up from beneath your holiday rock and have not yet heard the story, The Grio gives a nice synopsis:



Now that we're all on the same page, here is what President Obama had to say about the incident:

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Show Your Support: Spike Lee's New Project - Passing Strange

THANKS to Tambay over at shadowandact.com (I'm a big fan) for keeping us informed about Spike Lee's newest project.  It appears Mr. Lee has filmed the Broadway musical Passing Strange for the small screen.  Lee has teamed with PBS to bring the rock musical to a wider audience (and I for one am loving that Lee is helping to bring fine arts to those who can't afford live theatre).  From www.PBS.org:

Passing Strange is the semi-autobiographical story of a young black man who leaves behind his middle-class, church-ruled upbringing in mid-1970s Los Angeles to travel to Europe in search of his artistic and personal identity, or what he calls “the real.” There he finds he can exploit a “South Central” persona, playing the cool, black expatriate-musician who speaks for his people. Picaresque misadventures with sex, drugs, politics and art find him in a far-out Amsterdam and a hyper-militant Berlin. But in the end, he discovers that cultural complexity—and hypocrisy—are not limited to middle-class African American life, and that while to him art may be more real than life, only love is truly more than real. Co-starring with Stew as ‘Narrator’ is an extraordinarily talented ensemble cast, featuring DeAdre Aziza, Eisa Davis, Colman Domingo, Chad Goodridge, Rebecca Naomi Jones, and Daniel Breaker as the story’s central character, ‘Youth.’

The Broadway show won a 2008 Tony Award for “Best Book of a Musical,” and in total, it received seven Tony nominations, including “Best Musical.” The show also won a Drama Desk Award, a New York Drama Critics’ Circle Award and two Obie Awards. The highly-acclaimed score does not stand apart from the action as in some rock musicals, but advances the narrative through a sophisticated libretto. Charles Isherwood of The New York Times raves: “Passing Strange is bursting at the seams with melodic songs, and it features a handful of theatrical performances to treasure. Call it a rock concert with a story to tell, trimmed with a lot of great jokes. Or call it a sprawling work of performance art, complete with angry rants and scary drag queens. Call it whatever you want, really. I’ll just call it wonderful.” (read more)

 PBS will premiere Passing Strange on Wednesday, January 13th 2010 at 9 p.m. EST.  For a sneak peak see below.

   

      Passing Strange: Preview the Rock Musical | Great Performances | PBS - Watch more Videos at Vodpod.

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Small Talk: Good Black News

Good news stories are not few and far between, they are just under-reported. For your consideration, here are some recent news stories that will make you smile with pride.  Remember, before we can change how others view us, we have to change the way we see ourselves. 


Black Space Pioneer to be Inducted into the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame.

The Grio is reporting that Guion "Guy" Bluford, the first Black American to travel into space, will be inducted into the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame during a ceremony slated for June 5, 2010. Bluford, who is currently the vice president and general manager of the Science and Engineering Group, Aerospace Sector of Federal Data Corporation in Maryland, traveled to space a total of four time during his career.  He will become part of the 9th class to be granted this prestigious honor.

Precious Stars Receive Golden Globe Nominations
Okay, so I'm a little late on this one, but I would be complete remiss not to mention it.  Gabourey Sidibe is nominated in the Best Actress category of the upcoming Golden Globe awards for her role as Clarice "Precious" Jones.  The movie secured three nominations in total, including a nomination in the Best Motion Picture (Drama) category and a nod for Mo'nique's in the Best Supporting Actress category.




Tyler Perry Donates $1 Million to NAACP

In commemoration of the NAACP's centennial anniversary, Tyler Perry donated $1 Million dollars to the organization.  The donation marks the largest gift ever given to the group by a single donor.   According to The Grio Perry feels indebted to the NAACP stating: "the perseverance of thousands within the NAACP helped pave the way for his success in the film industry." Way to go Tyler!

Oprah Donates $1.5 Million to Atlanta Based School
Do you remember the Ron Clark Academy?  Well Oprah Winfrey sure does.  Oprah has donated $1.5 Million dollars to the private Atlanta based middle school who sang, danced and advocated public participation in the 2008 Presidential Election.  Oprah's generous donation was made to supplement some donation losses the school has suffered due to the current recession.  Very nicely done Oprah!



Snoop's Football Foundation Produces Stars
Calvin Broadus, aka Snoop Dogg, has something to be proud of.  His football program, Snoop Youth Football League, is making a big difference in the city of Crenshaw.  Snoop launched SYFL in 2005 with $1 Million dollars of his own funds after noticing a lack of football programs in inner city Los Angeles.  The program is seeing much success including an undefeated season for the Crenshaw High School Cougars.  Perhaps even more impressive though is the increased participation from young Black fathers in the area.  Head over to The Grio for the full feel good story!


Warren G to be Honored by the Boys & Girls Club
HipHopDX.com and HipHopWired.com are reporting that rapper Warren G will be awarded a Boys & Girls Club Image Award for his work with the youth in the community of Long Beach. 

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In The News: Percy Ellis Sutton Dies 12/26/09

... Black Voices and The New York TImes are reporting the death of 89-year old civil rights activist Percy Ellis Sutton.  Sutton lived and extraordinary life of public service including service as a Tuskegee Airman intelligence officer and  a decade long term as Manhattan Borough President.  After earning his law degree at Brooklyn Law School, Sutton began his career representing various well known and controversial figures, including Malcolm X.  He also became a prominent figure in Harlem, joining former New York Mayor David Dinkins, US Representative Charles Rangel and former Secretary of State Basil Patterson) to form the Harlem Clubhouse.

Outside of the political arena, Sutton was also a successful businessman who amassed several business ventures including Inner City Broadcasting , New York's first Black owned radio station.  He also produced the popular television program, Showtime at the Apollo.  In 1987 Sutton was awarded the Spingam Medal by the NAACP for his outstanding achievements.

Sutton, died on December 26, 2009 and is survived by his wife Leatrice Sutton.

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Editor's Note: Happy (Nondenominational) Holidays.

Whether you're celebrating Christmas or just kicking it nondenominationally today, I wish you all happy joyful day!  
Thanks for rolling with me these last couple of months.  I really appreciate your interest! 
Peace, love and blessings!!!

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Around The Web: Knitta, Please...Really...?

Sooooo I don't knit (though I'd like to learn) and perhaps this is why the Knitta, Please branding of the scarf producing hobby is news to me.  While I admire the clever nature of the brand tagline, I'm not oblivious to the racial subtext.  Is it racist?  I suppose that is the question.  Alexis over at onegrandhome.wordpress.com thinks it is.  As for me, I'm on the fence.  Had this been the brainchild of Dave Chappelle (think rogue knitting vigilantes slick talking to one another) I think I'd lean towards comedy.  Seeing the aged model to the left wearing the shirt though, well that's a little less funny.

Unfortunately, part of the problem with screaming racism at every turn is the appearance of non-objectivity.  On the other hand, not calling a spade a spade is equally as dangerous.  My truthful feelings - you make your bed, you lay in it.  Black people made the phrase "Nigga, please" into a staple of hood colloquialism, seems a tad sensitive to get upset with the marketing genius who has parlayed the phrase into knitting gold.

File this under reason 1,379 to stop socializing the N word.  Chuck deuces my knitta, I'm out.

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Around The Web: Precious: A Black Male Perspective

I want to give a Social Angst Shout Out to Mark Anthony Neal over at New Black Man for sharing an interesting conversation on Black male-specific perspectives of the Golden Globe nominated movie Precious.  Below read a brief description of the conversation and visit New Black Man to take a listen.

Hosted by Esther Armah (WBAI/Wakeup Call)

Guests are: Quintin Walcott, Director of the CONNECT Training Institute and CONNECT’s Male Anti-Violence Initiatives; Mark Anthony Neal, author and Professor of African and African American Studies @ Duke University; Sharif Simmons, Creative Writing Teacher at the Alice Steven Center from 5th Grade to High School in Birmingham Alabama, Poet, Musician and Single Father.

Discussion of Black Male media reactions to the film Precious

Edit To Add: Abdul Ali also wrote a nice essay on Precious posted at NBM, so check that out too!

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Geek of Nature: The Smiths to Remake Karate Kid

Please don't look down upon me because of my freaky geek tendencies.  My love for Puzzle Fighter, musical cinema, and scrabble are charming and endearing nerdy qualities - or so I like to think!  Today's Geek of Nature admission...vibe.com had me totally excited this morning as I read that little Jaden Smith will be staring in the upcoming remake of The Karate Kid.  Jaden will join Taraji P. Henson and Jackie Chan in this remake of the classic.

I'm sitting here hoping that none of the little rugrats in my life are on punishment for random childhood angst in June 2010.  I'm going to need to use a couple of those little buggers as an excuse to go see the film!

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I'm Just Saying: There Is A Difference Between an Abusive Relationship and a Violent Couple.

TRUTH: SOME WOMEN ARE VIOLENT.

I purposely refrained from joining the blogosphere's ongoing conversation about the Chris Brown/Rhianna situation.  I reserved judgment while details filtered in about the violent attack, so much so that it annoyed some friends of mine.  I found myself having mixed feelings about the incident, specifically relating to whether or not Rhianna hit Chris first and whether or not the two had a history of physically assaulting each other, as in my mind these two details were paramount to my understanding of what actually ensued.

While I would never excuse the gravity of the attack, or expunge Chris of his violent behavior, I also can't pretend not to recognize that some women (really individuals, as this is not a gender specific characteristic) have a propensity for instigation. I recognize that this isn't a PC statement.  I recognize that it isn't a sentiment that you want to reinforce in vulnerable young women.  Yet still, the truth is some women are violent and some women use their gender as a shield for bad social behavior.  Case in point, one Mrs. Mary J. Blige who is fervently denying recent reports that she punched her husband while attending her album release party last night.

While this is sad and unfortunate news, perhaps it will open up the domestic violence discussion to include accountability of all aggressive parties - because there is a difference between an abusive relationship (relationships where one person is the aggressor and one person is the victim) and a physically violent couple (relationships where both parties act as both aggressors and victims).

Do unto others as you would have them do to you.  I'm just saying... Ladies if it's NEVER okay for a man to put his hands on you, you should NEVER feel justified in putting your hands on a man.  Ladies behave like ladies.

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Michelle, Sasha and Malia @ The Children's National Medical Center

First Lady, Michelle Obama and her daughters Sasha and Malia took some time to read and answer questions at the Children's National Medical Center yesterday.  Michelle opened the floor to the two First Daughters and invited the audience to ask them questions.  See the video below for a taste of the event or check out the Chicago Sun Times article Michelle, Malia and Sasha and Bo with Santa, Kids at Childrens Hospital.

P.S. Blackamericaweb did a nice write up too.



     

       The First Family Holiday Reading - Watch more Videos at Vodpod.

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In The News: Harlem Boys Choir Falls Silent

Sadly, the New York Times is reporting the Quiet Ending for the Boys Choir of Harlem.  The non-profit organization aimed at mentoring at risk teenage males in the Harlem community hopes to reorganize, refocus, and reopen at a later time.

For over thirty years the Boys Choir of Harlem has provided a chance for underprivileged and at-risk young men of Harlem to choose community service over trouble.  It is a truly sad loss for Harlem and the world.

The below video is a tear inspiring rendition of Swing Low, Sweet Chariot sung by Kathleen Battle accompanied by the Boys Choir of Harlem and the New York Philharmonic.

It's amazing what children can do when someone takes an interest in their development.  That, in my opinion, is the best type of activism of them all.


     

       Kathleen Battle - Swing Low Sweet Chariot - Boys Choir of Ha - Watch more Videos at Vodpod.

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Social Commentary: Publisher's Weekly Afro Picks Actions Speak Louder Than Words.

I'm going to go ahead and give the new controversial Publishers Weekly cover an (inadvertent) EPIC PASS. Whether you fall on the defending side of the cover and it's artistic play on words, or the offended side and it's suspicions of pigeon hole propaganda techniques, the fact is people are actually talking about it and talking about it in a socially relevant context.

I'm going to approach this topic as if I'm writing to an audience that has no clue about what's going on. Publishers Weekly, a niche magazine aimed at the professional writing community, recently released its Afro Picks issue featuring Felicia Pride's article African American Books in Today's Marketplace. On the issue's cover a Black woman poses with several dozen afro pic styled combs protruding from her mane. Get it? Afro Pic(k)s... (You'd have to be an idiot not to...)

Let's begin on points we all can agree. Art is subjective. It can be experienced broadly, it can be shaped and shifted contextually by a variety of outside stimuli. It can evoke various emotions simply by how it is presented to it's audience. So while on it's own the artistic merits of the "Pickin's" photograph (which was shot by Lauren Kelley and originally appeared in Posing Beauty a book by Deborah Willis) may be beautiful and compelling, it unfortunately loses it's artistic flare when it is unimaginatively juxtaposed alongside the unoriginal and uninspiring cover story title. It is hard to believe that a magazine targeted at writers and literary insiders would think of such obvious wordplay as clever.

For some it is easier to believe that the cover is a caricature of Black literature, subtly reinforcing the idea the Black literature, pro-Black (and closed fisted) in nature , is published with one segmented audience in mind. Any reinforcement of that fallacy is bad for the community at large. It stunts the ability of Black authors to reach its widest potential audience. It stunts mainstream readers, under the misinformed guise that stories of diversity are not relateable to them, from seeking diverse titles. With so much on the line it is no wonder why Black authors are unhappy with the PW Cover.

Yet still, there is another more probable reason for the Black power inspired cover - and that reason is sales. In this era of declining print revenue, capturing sales (which is in essence capturing the attention of your largest (unsubscribing) audience). It goes to reason then that PW would want to put an eye catching and easily understood picture/title combo on its cover, in hopes of enticing the attention and dollars of the random (in this instance Black) passerbyer.

Whatever the true motivation of the Publishers Weekly cover is, one thing remains true - Pride, Kelley, and Willis - three relatively obscure creative artists got a wider purview this week because of it. And so did the plight of Black authors everywhere.

Social Discussion (even via twitter) IS Activism.

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Small Talk: 14 Year Old Black Investor Damon Williams

Thanks to thegrio.com for shining some light on this story. Meet Damon Williams. You'll be glad you did.

14 Year Old Black Investor On The Millionaire Track

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Just Because... Black Skateboarder Make Me Smile

I love to see Black people with enough curiosity and gumption to get up and try something new.

When I was a child, my neighbor from down the road (I typed that with a Bajan accent) had four nephews with whom my sisters and I frequently played with. They each had a skateboard and although my considerable difficulties with coordination prohibited any real thought of actively participating in the sport, I found that I rather enjoyed watching my homeboys slide up and down the block (I typed that with a Brooklyn accent). So over the last few years I have watched the coloring of skateboarding with pride. If my pop culture memory serves me correctly, Skateboard P (aka Pharrell Williams of The Neptunes) helped usher the sport of skateboarding into hip hop consciousness (skateboard aficionados, please excuse my ignorance if it is showing here). Since then, skateboarding has reaped the benefits of diversification and is now being embraced within the urban jungle as much as in the lands of suburbia. The Grio takes a look at how Black youths are changing the face of the skateboarder:


Read the accompanying article here.

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Show Your Support: Film - Prep School Negros

Editor's Note: I woke up out of my sleep when I realized that today is the 18th and as such I am a dollar short and a day late on this post. My bad folks...sorry for the confusion. I've made the necessary edits.

I want to thank Tambay over at shadowandact.com (who officially became a part of my daily must read list - once again I say you should be following me on google reader, it's where I post all the interesting things I stumble across but don't have time to blog about.) for bringing this opportunity to support to my attention. From Shadow Act:

Damn!! I’m only just now finding out about this… I can’t make it, given the short notice, but maybe YOU can.

We’ve profiled the film previously on this blog (read our profile of it HERE), and it’s a film many of us were immediately drawn to for one reason or another – myself included!

The film is currently seeking distribution and film festival participation. However, the filmmakers have decided to take part in “limited outreach networking screenings.”

André Robert Lee and his sister grew up in the ghettos of Philadelphia. When Andre was 14 years old, he received what his family believed to be a golden ticket – a full scholarship to attend one of the most prestigious prep schools in the country. Elite education was Andre’s way up and out, but at what price? Yes, the exorbitant tuition was covered, but this new world cost him and his family much more than anyone could have anticipated.

In The Prep School Negro, André takes a journey back in time to revisit the events of his adolescence, while also spending time with current day prep school students of color and their classmates to see how much has really changed inside the ivory tower. What he discovers along the way is the poignant and unapologetic truth about who really pays the consequences for yesterday’s accelerated desegregation and today’s racial naiveté.

If you live in New York City, and are free this evening, from 7PM exactly, head over to the Studio Museum in Harlem, 144 West 125th Street, and check the film out; and if you do, let us know your thoughts on it. The screening will be followed by a panel discussion moderated by radio personality Malikha Mallette, and includes filmmaker Lee and Stephen Hill, Executive Vice President of Entertainment and Music Programming at BET. No specific word on ticket prices, but I’m assuming it’s whatever the cost is to enter the museum, which I believe is $7 (although it’s a suggested donation).

You can head over to Shadow Act to view the trailer. Since I didn't catch this post in time to endorse last nights screening, the least I can do is shout out the filmmakers. From www.theprepschoolnegro.org:

André Robert Lee and his sister grew up in the ghettos of Philadelphia. Their mother struggled to support them by putting strings in the waistbands of track pants and swimsuits in a local factory. When Andre was 14 years old, he received what his family believed to be a golden ticket – a full scholarship to attend one of the most prestigious prep schools in the country. Elite education was Andre’s way up and out, but at what price? Yes, the exorbitant tuition was covered, but this new world cost him and his family much more than anyone could have anticipated. (Read More)

As a product of a scholarship funded prep school education, the movie premise speaks directly to me. In fact for a long time, my prepatory schooling was the source of much personal dismay and family dysfunction. I applaud the author for delving into the complicated world of inner city scholarship recipients.

Get more information about the movie and keep track of upcoming opportunities to see the film at www.theprepschoolnegro.org

Supporting positive Black endeavors IS Social Activism.

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In The News... Top Black News Stories

Blacks Being Left Out of Rebuilding Projects. (blackamericaweb.com)
While many Black companies were hoping to reap the benefits of post Katrina rebuilding projects, they are ill-equipped to meet the necessary standards to vie for the business.


The Census Set to Make Black Men Count. (thegrio.com)
Black men are one of the toughest demographic to be counted during the decennial survey. This year the census bureau hopes to increase participation amongst this typically underrepresented group.

McDonalds to Introduce Free Wi-fi in 2010. (blackweb20.com)
Why I heart this story: McDonalds is a staple of the hood. Though the conglomerate often gets a bad wrap for their highly caloric menu, they have maintained a commitment to their low income consumers with their economically friendly meals, heterogeneous hiring practices, and diverse marketing all benefit the Black community. With this new commitment to free wi-fi McDonalds will can now bring the benefit of the internet to a demographic much in need of it.

DNA to the Rescue of a Wrongly Incarcerated Man. (thegrio.com)
Falsely accused, unjustly prosecuted, and wrongly incarcerated Donald Eugene Gates will never get the 28 years of his life spent in prison back, but today he is a free man thanks to DNA. In a similar story, James Bain was recently released after DNA also proved him innocent, unfortunately the proof was some 35 years too late. Thank you Project Innocence.

Family Lose Twice with the Chicago's Department of Children and Family Services. (thebigblacknewsblog.com)
The agency is currently missing 200 wards in their custody and families are left wondering why.


THE MAN'S SPORTS PICKS (Since I have to suffer through Sports Center with him, I figure you shouldn't have to struggle to impress the men in your life!)

Tiger Wins Athlete of the Decade. (www.golf.com)
Why the story is relevant: Before his indiscretions became public recetly, there would have been little question on whether Tiger was worthy of this accolade. 10+ opportunistic women later, many are finding it hard to differentiate between Tiger the athlet and Tiger the husband.

Chris Henry Dies Tragically. (sportsillustrated.cnn.com)
While the details of the incident are still unconfirmed, the sudden and tragic death of rising Bengal's star Chris Henry is a substantial loss for his family, friends, and fans.

Mark Ingram Wins The Heisman. (thegrio.com)
A visibly emotional Ingram brings home the top honor for Alabama.

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Editor's Note: Why I Don't Twitter (But Desperately Need Your Tweets.)

For those of you who do not know me personally, I have a slightly addictive personality. Thankfully my current addictions are mostly positive in nature (one of the reasons I blog so much). Being aware of this character flaw, I make conscious decisions to avoid things that could lead me into a downward spiral. Outside of my 1984 induced paranoia about losing my right to privacy, this the biggest reason why I do not twitter/facebook. The majority of people can twitter without fear of becoming obsessed. Unfortunately, I'm almost positive that I am not one of those people. Secretly, I find myself in sheer trepidation of becoming a twitter fiend.

While I can't see myself becoming one of those people who tweet about going to the bathroom or divulging my most private grooming rituals, I can see the voyeur in me glued to the twitter screen overactively getting my peeping tom on. So instead of becoming that ugly version of myself, I chose not to tweet. Unfortunately, my lack of existence on twitter inhibits me from proactively getting the word out about Social Angst. So I am coming to you, my readers for help. If you like a blog post you see here, please do me the ultimate kindness and tweet it to your peeps. For me, having Social Angst grow organically from word of mouth, would be the ultimate compliment.

In advance, I thank you for any small promotion of Social Angst you make - shout out, follow, link to your blog, tweet, etc. Know that I am vigorously working on becoming one of your favorite places on the web!

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Now Read This! A Tangible Health Care Cost Solution?

I'm addicted to Time Magazine. In fact I'm so addicted to the hard copy version that I refrain from subscribing to it in my google reader (I swear you should be following me). Thankfully my coworker gets a subscription that she usually doesn't read and I gladly pilfer each edition from her. There was an article in the October 26, 2009 edition that I enjoyed and wanted to share. In his article A Healthier Way to Pay Doctors, Time contributor Jeffrey Kluger examines tangible alternative health care models that are keeping doctors happy, services uniform, and patients well - all while lowering the cost of doing medical business. It's a great addition to the ongoing national discussion on health care. Do enjoy!

(Image Credit: Times.com)

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Just Because... A Colbert/Keys Duet Is Priceless!

Artist Alicia Key on the Stephen Colbert Show promoting her album and singing her latest single. Stephen raps in the second video. It is priceless.

For the record, though I adore Ms. Keys, I do prefer the less hood version of her...

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Blog Snatch: Will & Jaida Interview President Obama

Thank you to Jack & Jill Politics for posting the following videos for me to snatch!!

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Just Because: Jennifer Hudson Makes Me Smile...

Jennifer Hudson Comes Home For Christmas.

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Social Commentary: In The Company of Misery (aka Bitch Is The New Black)

I thought long and hard before writing this piece. After attending "Belle’s Holiday Cocktails" event on Monday night, surrounded by scores of talented, successful, and charming women gathered in the name of sisterhood, I am somewhat remiss to even broach today’s topic of conversation. It seems wrong to damper the after glow of such a positive evening by discussing the recent announcement of Ms. Helena Andrews’ upcoming book Bitch Is The New Black (Harper Collins.) The author, a regular contributor at The Root.com and self-described “mean girl,” has pitched and sold the rights to the currently unpublished BITNB to Miramax Films as the Black version of Sex and The City. I can see the movie byline now The Browner, Bitchier, more Bourges Bradshaw.

I suppose if the old adage “misery loves company” rings true, Andrews, Harper and Miramax will have a hit on their hands. The angst ridden Andrews seems a youthful miserable mess by all available accounts and it’s clear from the pre-promotion for her book that she is actively seeking your companionship. In the last two days several blogs have picked up the announcement of the book to movie deal, all of which are using the same Washington Post article as their information source. In that article, Andrews touts BITNB as “a satirical look at successful black young women living in Washington [D.C.].” She delves slightly deeper into the premise by offering this:

[The] book attempts to reveal what's behind the veneer. In a series of essays, Andrews documents the lives of so many young black women who appear to have everything: looks, charm, Ivy League degrees, great jobs. Closets packed full of fabulous clothes; fabulous condos in fabulous gentrified neighborhoods; fabulous vacations, fabulous friends. And yet they are lonely: Their lives are repetitive, desperate and empty. They are post-racial feminists who have come of age reaping the benefits of both the civil rights movement and the women's movement, then asking quietly: What next?

The rest of the article is somewhat convoluted, filled with contradiction after contradiction, summed up perfectly when Andrews states:

What I am trying to say about single black women in any urban environment is, you don't know them as well as you think you do. They may not know themselves as well as they think they do."

I’m hedging bets that Andrews herself falls into the latter category. From the article she seems totally oblivious to her own cluelessness, a fact that was not lost on Tambay of ShadowAndAct.com, who writes:

Reading the article about Andrews, as she makes her case on the difficulties she faces finding a suitable black man, she does herself no favors, as I see it.

As the title of her book suggests, she describes herself as “mean,” and she essentially looks down on the men she dates, even the “nice” ones. She’s certainly free to have her standards, but recognize that what you “put out” will be received accordingly, and she comes across as depressed, with all her self-loathing, which isn’t at all attractive.

Other than emphasizing her degree, her job, the closet full of clothes and shoes she has, and real estate, Andrews says nothing about what makes her a real catch; she really doesn’t demonstrate (or even bother to state) reasons why any man would want to be in a relationship with her! I wouldn’t want to be in relationship with her! My response to her would be, so what?

I can appreciate and understand some of the issues she brings up, but her approach is all wrong, and she’s painting herself into a corner that won’t bring her anything but the superficiality she puts out!

Andrews, for all her success, seems (unapologetically) self-indulgent on a grandiose scale. She clearly exists in that age where “logic” is born more out of a visceral egocentric thought process than anything based in reality. It’s an infantile age we all go through where women look outside themselves for answers to their problems, when they should start by looking within. It's an age where women are still worried about meeting some arbitrary and often unattainable standard instead of setting their own standards of happiness. It's an age where we view ourselves as better for our independence and unwillingness to settle, instead of admitting that we are at our best when we are part of something greater than ourselves. It's an age that, once we've matured, we happily leave behind, no longer waiting to exhale.

With little information available about the book, I can only hope that Andrews first literary offering ends with a self-actualizing epiphany, a moment of clarity that allows her the ability to recognize why her own behavior is the most likely cause of her single status. If not, I worry that her contribution to the universal understanding of Black women may erode recent public image gains we've made at the hands of Michelle Obama, Oprah Winfrey, and Gayle King— three women of varying high success levels who personify grace, style, and sisterhood and would never ingratiate the term Bitch, in public language or behavior. (For that matter, as a fan of the SATC brand, I question whether the fabulous fictional foursome would appreciate the comparison to BITNB. The SATC brand is at its core an ode to sisterhood, a remarkably convincing argument for valuing friendship.* Sadly, nothing that I've read thus far about BITNB seems to mirror that sentiment.)

I suppose a Black version of SATC could be an interesting pop culture product. If approached correctly it could be a significant look at the multidimensional psyche of the Black women and their relationships with Black men. A writer with the right intentions and proper backing could influence women to grow past immaturity, hate fueld by insecurity, and faux bitchiness. The movie, if approached with socially significant intention could encourage Black women to evolve into supportive friends of sisterhood, leaving the bitch behind in favor of becoming A Belle.

There isn't anything new about being a bitch. But being a Belle, well that is absolutely the new Black.

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Just Because... This Made Me Smile

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Black Holiday Gift Guide

Last update: 12/11 at 5:23 p.m.

With the winter holidays fast approaching, I wanted to give you guys some options for supporting Black owned businesses this holiday season. I know that part of the hassle in buying Black stems from inconvenience. In fact, as we've learned from Maggie and John Anderson "buy Black" experiment this year, buying Black exclusively can be a time consuming, costly, frustrating labor of pride. Since the goal of Social Angst is to promote easy social activism, I'm am not going to suggest that you restrict all your holiday spending to Black vendors. Instead, I'm going to make two suggestions:

1. Spread The Wealth. While it may be unrealistic to "buy Black" for ALL of your holiday purchases, I'm sure that some of your purchases can be made at Black owned retailers. Make a pledge to spend $100 on Black vendors/products this season and support the Black economy.
2. Choose Mainstream Retailers That Support Your Community. The NAACP does an in depth Consumer Report Card on some of the largest retailers in America. The report identifies what companies routinely hire diversely, use diverse vendors, and seek diversity in their philanthropic endeavors.

To aid you in your commitment to "buying Black," please find below a few options on how to spend that holiday money.


Bath, Body, and in Between.
CarolsDaughter.com Lisa Price is (her mother) Carol's daughter. She is also the founder and owner of the Carol's Daughter beauty line which is named for her mom. While working on the set of The Cosby Show in the 80s, Lisa began making organic beauty products in her kitchen which quickly developed into a mail order/online business. In 1999 she opened her flagship store in Brooklyn and a sequel shop in Harlem in 2005. Her line has been featured on The Oprah Show and the Tyra Banks show and is currently promoted by Carol's Daughter spokeswomen Mary J. Blige and Dominique Reighard.

Arts, Culture and Entertainment.

Broadway Tickets
David Allen Grier and Kerry Washington are starring in David Mamet's newest Broadway play Race at the Ethel Barrymore Theatre. I've read good things about the show. Tickets range between $59.50 and $251.50 and can be purchased at Broadway.com or at telecharge.


One of a Kind/Handmade.

Etsy.com is the cyber heaven for quirky handmade items. You can find ornaments, art, jewelery, home decor items and much more. Though the site doesn't cater specifically to Black consumers, they do have a nifty filter option that helps you find Afrocentric pieces and African American vendors.

I've got to shout out Sabrina Thompson, founder and owner of BeanPye Jewelery. Check out her site for fierce, fabulous, and fun accessories!

Another entrepreneurial minded friend of mine, Khalilah Raheem, has just begun bottling and selling her fantastic homemade Sangria. Kiki's Sangria is delicious. I have had it on several occasions and IT has had me on my backside several times as well!! The sangria contains fresh fruit, wine, and rum and can be purchased in 16 oz bottles for $8 and half gallon bottles for $25. You can make inquiries and orders by emailing "Kiki" at kikiskickinsangria@gmail.com.


Home & Garden.

NikkiMakesScents.com is an online candle shop. Nikki, founder and owner of Nikki Makes Scents, has run the budding online company since 1998. Candle lovers can expect the royal treatment as they choose from 600 unique candle scents.

ItsABlackThang.com has a variety of Black inspired gifts including holiday ornaments and decorations, figurines, stationery, mantle piece ornaments and much more.

Inspirational-Expressions.com also has a unique catalog of Black inspired gifts ranging from magnets, bibles, and holiday items.


Books
**Newly Added**
**From the New York Times 2009 Of Color Stylish Gift Guide ** Kimberly Seals-Allers, author of the beloved Mocha Series Books, has teamed up with Pamela M. McBride to author The Mocha Manual to Military Life: A Savvy Guide for Wives, Girlfriends and Female Service Members. Bargain Hunter Hint: It's on sale now for $10.79 while supplies last.

**From the New York Times 2009 Of Color Stylish Gift Guide ** Iman is one of the most successful Black models ever to hit the fashion industry. Though she is retired from the catwalk, she hasn't stopped wanting to make women of color fabulous. Her book, The Beauty of Color: The Ultimate Beauty Guide of Skin of Color, which has been in print since 2005, is a great gift for any lady in your life (I should know, I have it!). Though do keep in mind that hardcovers make better gifts!

While the mainstream media may view beauty in very confined terms, we know that beauty - especially Black beauty - comes in all shades, ages and forms. Black Beauty: A History and a Celebration is another literary oldie but goody that makes a great gift. Whether you want to give it as a coffee table centerpiece or as an inspiration to some of the young women in your life, this book gives the gift of positive self image. Bargain Hunter Hint: Amazon teams the paperback edition of Black Beauty: A History and a Celebration with the hardcover Nudes by Marc Baptiste for $56.74!


Magazine Subscriptions.

Help keep our issues in print by gifting those you love with subscriptions to African American magazines.

Black Enterprise
Black Issue Book Review
Ebony/Jet
Essence
Footsteps ( Love this one for the kiddies!)
Heart & Soul
The Network Journal
Today's Black Woman
Trace
Upscale
XXL
(Find more obscure subscriptions here)


For the Kids.

Give a book and give the gift of literacy.
Looking for a diverse selection of children's books? Check out BlackChildBooks.com and BlackBooksGalore.com. As they say, a book is a gift that you can open more than once!

Children's author Kelly Starling Lyons has made her collection available for online purchase. Visit kellystarlinglyons.com to view her catalog.

**Newly Added**
**From the New York Times 2009 Of Color Stylish Gift Guide **
Nikki Grimes has written a children's book about President Barack Obama entitled Barack Obama: Son of Promise, Child of Hope. Grab it for $16.99 at Amazon

Toys of Diversity
**Newly Added**
As some of you may know, I'm a HUGE Solange Knowles fan, so of course I wanted to promote her Baby Jamz toy line here. Unfortunately, I hit a brick wall as I found the official Baby Jamz website expired. I did find out that Walmart is carrying the line, however since Walmart got mixed reviews on their NAACP report card, I originally opted to leave it out. Since then, Nic has argued that the fact that Walmart is carrying the line should qualify a mention...so there you go.

Originally I opted out of adding Baby Jamz to this post for fear that the line had silently failed. However, after some discussion with Nic, I've decided to sneak it in.

African American bingo marries the popular kids game with Black history.

Proserity - An African American Board Game is a game that teaches cooperative economics. Similar to Monopoly, the game features a variety of real life experiences tat help foster a child's understanding of business and fiscal responsibility.


Apparel

Nic's Pick.
Cookie Johnson (Magic's wife) has teamed up with 7 For All Mankind and Citizen of Humanity founder Michael Glasser to create the CJ Jeans denim line that is cut for melanin proficient. Now these jeans are not cheap - in fact, the cheapest pair I found was at Nordstroms for $141, but apparently they are worth it. Oprah featured Cookie's CJ Jeans on her coveted Favorite Things episode earlier this year.

E.P.'s Pick *Just Added*
Brooklyn based clothing line Cut It Out! Apparel features fashions with sassy statement for sistas. Tirinda McNeill has created a line of tees with style, flavor and principle. I love that the site features real women. View the line and cop a tee at CutItOut.bigcartel.com

AfrodiasiakClothing.com has a variety of urban inspired t-shirts. I'm especially fond of the I'm Taking Hip Hop Back design!

Black Girls Rock Inc has opened a new online store where they sell their slogan laced t-shirts. The ultra chic urban wear is a statement of both fashion and activism. You'll look as fabulous as you feel when you support their youth empowerment programs with a purchase!

The unisex clothing line at DangerousNegro.com is also in the business of making positive social statements fashionable. Their t-shirt lines are as thought provoking as they are asthetically pleasing.


Mataano is a clothing line designed by twin sisters Ayaan and Idyl Mohallim. The Somali to DC transplants launched the line of ten dresses in November 2009 and have been featured on Oprah and in the New York Times 2009 Of Color Stylish Gift Guide.


Looking for more Afrocentric gift ideas? LittleAfrica.com has a substantial list of vendors. You can also pick up The Color of Christmas African American Holiday Shopping Guide for free. While the guide is several years old, many of their suggestions are still relevant.

Hope you find this guide helpful! While I don't normally request recognition, I'd like to get this guide out to as many people as possible. If you find it worthy, please tweet and dig it (see below for buttons). We're always looking to add vendors, so drop us a comment or email us at angstism@gmail.com to let us know who your favorite Black vendors and business are!

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