Disqus - Latest Comments for ETS

Re: minus one. plus one.

ETS — Fri, 20 Apr 2007 17:45:05 -0000

Honestly, gradual change like this on a grassroots level is the only way to create real change. When labels see that "positive" artists bring in more dollars, they're more willing to support them.

Re: Get Connected

ETS — Sat, 21 Apr 2007 16:00:55 -0000

Another thing I forgot to mention is that all money spent on anything related to a black professional organization is tax deductible, so this is a smart financial move.

Re: Get Connected

ETS — Sat, 21 Apr 2007 21:28:45 -0000

Perhaps tax deductible is the wrong term, but any money you spend out of your own pocket on your career - registration for national conventions, food for some forum, plane tickets on interviews - can be written off when you do your taxes. It's kinda like if a teacher buys crayons out of her own pocket for her students. There's a website/book for this. When I find it, I will post it.

Re: minus one. plus one.

ETS — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 14:06:43 -0000

http://biz.yahoo.com/bw/070423/20070423005911.h...

Re: on Girlfriends . . .

ETS — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 22:27:46 -0000

My wife watches this show regularly - which is saying something because she doesn't do too much TV, but I haven't been able to really get into it.

I often feel guilty when good black shows are on and I don't bend over backwards to support them - especially since I have no problem calling out wack black shows and the powers that be for promoting them. I'm going to try to make a better effort to watch Everybody Hates Chris.

Re: reader emails

ETS — Fri, 27 Apr 2007 20:31:57 -0000

Marc S -
When we try to implement change among ourselves, we must attack the institutions that harm us as well. Yes, potential YBPs need to be told that having children before they can financially support them is a bad economic decision, but school districts that teach abstinence-only sex "education" must change their actions as well.

Ron T -
Have you contacted your local representatives? What's the point of forcing rehabilitation on someone if you're going to treat them as if they haven't changed?

Re: on Girlfriends . . .

ETS — Mon, 30 Apr 2007 00:21:18 -0000

Run's House is also a very good show. A good family show with healthy images of a black family and a blended family.

Re: Your house should not be one giant junk drawer

ETS — Tue, 01 May 2007 08:24:10 -0000

Kimberly Michelle -
I read these tips as if they applied to more than just a cluttered house - but a cluttered life. Too often there's excessive mess stored inside of us for unjustifiable reasons. Time to clean house! Thanks for the advice.

Re: minus one. plus one.

ETS — Fri, 04 May 2007 15:22:47 -0000

"The Don Imus-fueled controversy over misogynistic rap lyrics surrounds Ebony magazine’s recent decision to pull rapper Ludacris from the cover of its June issue on "the New Black Fathers" and replace him with actor, Boris Kodjoe, reports Journal-isms. "Something has changed in America in the last few weeks," Bryan Monroe, editorial director of Ebony and Jet magazines, told Journal-isms, without disclosing the identity of the rapper. As president of the National Association of Black Journalists, Monroe led the movement to have Imus fired. "I think the media is being called to account in these areas," Monroe said. There is an opportunity to "transfer the conversation around language, race, inclusiveness and diversity," as he said in his NABJ president's column."

more: http://www.eurweb.com/printable.cfm?id=33297

comments?

Re: YBPs: The Advanced Degree Chasers

ETS — Fri, 04 May 2007 15:26:08 -0000

Most career and financial advisors will tell you that going into debt for a degree that does not increase the probability of you increasing your income is a poor use of finances and time. That money could be used investing in something with better returns and that time could be spent perhaps working hard enough to get you where you're trying to go. Thankfully, we live in a world - although rare - where people who didn't complete their undergrad degrees are now able to make decisions and more money than some of those with graduate degrees. I say go to grad school if you NEED to. If you don't, don't waste your time.

Re: Heroic Melancholy

ETS — Fri, 04 May 2007 19:35:36 -0000

The thing I guess I want communicated most to the functionally depressed is that life doesn't have to be that way. Sometimes we are so used to disfunction and chaos that we think it's the norm and even acceptable. But it's not. Freedom awaits. Embrace yours.

Re: To Mom, Thanks for Everything! YBP

ETS — Tue, 08 May 2007 16:19:45 -0000

I also suggest paying a bill or two for the month.

Re: walk tall. speak softly. carry a big stick.

ETS — Tue, 08 May 2007 16:26:38 -0000

Congrats on the new job.

The walk tall advice is so important. I come in contact with too many YBPs who take pride in the fact that "they look white" if you just look at their resume (i.e. their name, no involvement in black orgs, etc.). I understand the need to convince an employer that you can do the job given how people of color are discriminated against in hiring decisions, but your ethnicity - and everything else that makes you, you - is an asset and should be used as such, not hidden. It could be the advantage you need to succeed. At the risk of sounding crass, shake whatcho mama gave ya!

Re: Do You!

ETS — Tue, 08 May 2007 17:05:22 -0000

I haven't read much about the book, but I am excited about the concept of encouraging people to be themselves if they want to experience professional and financial success. The last thing we need is more carbon copies of the current people in power. People should tap into the greatness that is themselves and maximize it.

Re: Obama, Interrupted

ETS — Wed, 09 May 2007 17:14:23 -0000

It's definitely censorship. CBS has the resources to have someone monitor their site and erase comments that are inappropriate while allowing those that are acceptable ... most mainstream media outlets do that anyway.

Re: What IS a YBP community?

ETS — Fri, 11 May 2007 22:38:47 -0000

So that there's no confusion, I don't want to imply that there is anything wrong with the name of this blog. I wanted to discuss the bigger issue of what it means to be a YBP and how that affects blacks who aren't YBPs or other young black professionals who don't fit the YBP profile, if there is a profile.

Re: 30 is the new 20!

ETS — Mon, 14 May 2007 20:42:57 -0000

Man, I'ma seriously meditate on this right here for a few days:

"Love the options you have, not the options you don’t."

That's good stuff right there. Thanks for the post!

Re: Black Women Navigate Ladder To the Top

ETS — Thu, 17 May 2007 18:33:10 -0000

I wonder if it's easier for black women in locations with lots of qualified black women or those with few people of color in management but value diversity - at least, in theory.

I guess, I'm wondering if a black woman has a better shot at a firm with lots of black women in ATL or at a Tampa firm with no black women but is "open" to promoting a black woman.

Re: Make a Gratitude Adjustment

ETS — Thu, 17 May 2007 18:34:41 -0000

... or jot down what makes you unhappy and DO SOMETHING ABOUT IT instead of just being miserable.

Re: Black Women Navigate Ladder To the Top

ETS — Fri, 18 May 2007 02:26:09 -0000

Kim, I agree. I chose Phoenix over job offers in three more diverse cities, because I basically was given a chance to do stuff here that I'd have
to wait years to do in those other places. But I've never worked in a city with a large population of black professionals so I was wondering if someone who had could give some perspective.

Re: Who else does your YBPness benefit?

ETS — Sat, 19 May 2007 19:16:18 -0000

I'm a journalist.

Re: Who else does your YBPness benefit?

ETS — Sun, 20 May 2007 20:53:06 -0000

I want to co-sign on JMac's post. My mentee that I mentioned in the original posting was assigned to me through Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Kansas City. BBBS is a great organization that I encourage those of you looking for mentees to consider. When I was in KC, BBBS was desperately in need of black male mentors. I'm assuming that your local branch needs the same.

JMac's post brought up something else I wanted to mention. It's often easier for us to mentor kids who are what a mentor of mine calls "no matter what" kids - kids who are probably going to "make it" no matter what; kids who were already on the path to success before we came into their lives. A couple of the young people I mentor now are "no matter what" kids and are incredibly different from the mentee I worked with in KC, who I found extremely challenging to work with. I believe my mentees here in Phoenix benefit from my time with them, but not as much as I believe my KC mentee did.

I want to encourage all of us - myself included - to take time to sew into people who need it most regardless of how challenging it may be or how many "easier" opportunities present themselves. Even if we're not around to see the fruits of our labor, we should find comfort in knowing that it wasn't in vain.

Re: race: asset vs. liability

ETS — Tue, 22 May 2007 19:35:19 -0000

If the race debate gets old, it'll be because we're not debating it correctly. It's already been proving that there is no science that suggests there is a difference between whites and blacks. What we need to be debating is culture. And not just between different races - but within races and within religions and within genders and within faiths, etc.

A frat brother of mine not too long ago kinda bragged that potential employers can't tell he's black from his resume. I thought that was wack as many companies are looking for people of color. It would suck to see you get passed over because they think you're white, because you chose to hide your blackness.

I always view my demographics as an asset. If someone else/something else doesn't like them, then we're just not a good fit for each other. And that's okay with me.

Re: Shedding some weight

ETS — Tue, 22 May 2007 19:36:40 -0000

Can someone answer me this? Why are so many blacks content with being unhealthy? I'm not talking about being "thick" or "shapely." I mean flat out unhealthy.

Re: Shedding some weight

ETS — Wed, 23 May 2007 12:47:27 -0000

I mean, I'm with ya'll on the connection between our diets and our weight, but I mean why does health not matter to so many people. And I mean holistic health - physical, emotional, mental, spiritual, etc. And is this just a black thing?

Re: Revisiting the Black Arts Movement

ETS — Thu, 31 May 2007 18:17:44 -0000

I've read the BAM referred to as one of the least succesful movements. I'm assuming they are considering the emergence of black art that contradicts the movement or the falling off of BAM artists when they say this. I'm not sure I completely agree, but like the Harlem Renaissance, it's a period I regret not being around for.

Re: 5 Easy Negotiating Tips

ETS — Mon, 04 Jun 2007 13:37:48 -0000

KNOW YOUR WORTH! I know too many people who are "scared" to negotiate with an employer - especially young professionals.

If you think you're being lowballed and especially if you have other offers on the table, encourage ALL of them to give you more. I never take the first offer - even with start dates. I try to make sure there is always some downtime between my last job and my new job.

Re: Free Genarlow Wilson

ETS — Thu, 07 Jun 2007 14:04:44 -0000

This convo is bigger and deeper than race, class and law. The issue often ignored is sexuality. Why is consensual oral sex between a heterosexual couple looked at with such disdain that it's illegal!?

Re: nigger and the ybp

ETS — Thu, 07 Jun 2007 14:12:23 -0000

THEY won't stop using it until WE stop using it. PERIOD.

That "do as I say, not as I do" bit is not cool .... and is clearly ineffective.

Re: nigger and the ybp

ETS — Thu, 07 Jun 2007 19:04:27 -0000

Lester -
Why is there any doubt that racist language matters?

Re: nigger and the ybp

ETS — Thu, 07 Jun 2007 19:06:24 -0000

Kim -
Does nigger carry the same "sting" in the UK as it does in the States? I don't know much about the history of the word, but I thought it was birthed in the American South, no?

Re: nigger and the ybp

ETS — Thu, 07 Jun 2007 23:22:05 -0000

Lester -
If you don't believe racist language - even used within a group - has an effect on one's psyche, why are you careful about when you use it? If it's okay to say nigga in public and around almost anyone, why don't you?

Re: Losing Isaiah (and I hope the word ‘faggot’)

ETS — Fri, 08 Jun 2007 21:00:38 -0000

I honestly didn't want Isaiah to go at first. I will admit that the story line was more important to me than his disrespect for another group of people. But since then, I've acknowledged how unacceptable what he did was. PLUS he had to be let go if the show was going to keep being heralded as a model for diversity and openness.

Re: Will WE get the hook up?

ETS — Fri, 08 Jun 2007 21:02:56 -0000

I don't understand how these examples - and others that haven't been highlighted - don't serve as enough "proof" that the system is flawed. Is just one not enough? How much is "enough" to prove inequality.

I seriously doubt that Paris, R or all the other privileged want to be treated like everyone else in these situations. I seriously doubt it.

Re: 3 Myths About Debt Consolidation Companies

ETS — Tue, 12 Jun 2007 18:36:08 -0000

One of my tricks is you can't have a huge balance if you don't have a high limit. You can decrease your limit.

But Fred, keep checking those online accounts. I do it all day everyday. I was a victim of identity theft, so I'm anal.

Re: crush on obama

ETS — Sat, 16 Jun 2007 00:03:07 -0000

GEM and I are seeing eye to eye.

Re: crush on obama

ETS — Sun, 17 Jun 2007 21:20:12 -0000

I also agree with Cynthia. I'm not saying that this might not have a negative effect, but Obama is not in the exact same situation as Ford.

Re: Why do people hate on Tyler Perry?

ETS — Tue, 19 Jun 2007 17:16:05 -0000

I honestly don't understand why people hate on Tyler's productions. I mean they are ok. But they ain't nowhere near half as bad as half the stuff we see on the regular.

Re: Why do people hate on Tyler Perry?

ETS — Wed, 20 Jun 2007 16:44:21 -0000

But MOST images we see in the media are one dimensional!!!! How often do you hear about them?

Re: it’s almost friday video : 70’s soul train

ETS — Fri, 22 Jun 2007 18:11:54 -0000

106 & Park don't want none!!!!

Re: be still and know . . . Yourself

ETS — Wed, 27 Jun 2007 16:05:37 -0000

When we choose to focus only on one side of our lives the physical/practical (professional, financial, etc) side, we miss out. We're much more complex than that. Becoming a better YBP to me, means growing spiritually and internally as well.

Re: How Green is too Green?

ETS — Wed, 27 Jun 2007 16:29:46 -0000

I don't know much about science, but doesn't just passing gas do something bad to the environment?! *shrugs*

I don't encourage people to adopt things they might consider extreme. It really is about baby steps. But we all could be better environmentalists.

Re: 5 important reasons why ybp’s should blog

ETS — Wed, 27 Jun 2007 16:33:15 -0000

I DEPEND on blogs for information I rarely find in the mainstream media and even in much of the alternative media. Plust it has proven to be one of the best ways to keep in touch with people while watching their evolution.

Re: The Candidates and the Covenant with Black America

ETS — Thu, 28 Jun 2007 17:45:46 -0000

Were Republicans invited to participate in a similar event?

Re: open thread (before the poppin’ weekend) friday

ETS — Fri, 29 Jun 2007 15:57:46 -0000

Man honestly after seeing all the busts year after year, it's hard for me to pay much attention to the drafts. *shrugs*

Re: imoovie.com : independent films

ETS — Mon, 02 Jul 2007 11:46:25 -0000

I love Forrest Whitaker. It's so great seeing an actor who uses integrity as a decision-maker in choosing his roles.

I also encourage you to check out black and alternative film festivals. The Arizona Black Film Festival screened Akeelah and the Bee a year or two ago. I didn't go, but from what I hear it was a very positive experience.

Re: The Black Dollar Days Task Force

ETS — Thu, 05 Jul 2007 14:42:55 -0000

The fact that the Black Dollar Days Task Force is based in Seattle brings up a point I wish I could spread across the world. Most probably don't know that Seattle's black population is significant enough to be home to such an organization.

We don't understand and thus take full advantage of the black diaspora. Black folks are more places than most of us realize. Learn about black culture in places you didn't know it existed - like Arizona, Utah and Oregon. The knowledge you gain is worth the price of the trip alone.

Re: Integrating Success and Opportunity

ETS — Wed, 11 Jul 2007 11:18:18 -0000

I need to re-read this, but I just wanted to say inadequate preparation will always lead to inadequate performance if certain groups aren't given the chance to operate in a "superior" environment. Whether they can "compete" or not will always remain a mystery if they are never given a shot.

Re: hbcu’s in america’s high-tech future

ETS — Tue, 17 Jul 2007 19:09:12 -0000

To get more black Ph. D's in the sciences and engineering you have to start at elementary schools. It's not as if many qualified people - black and white - are avoiding these programs because they WANT to do something else, many people CAN NOT keep up with the work load of these programs. It is not easy work. Folks must start young.

Yes, funding is and has always been an issue .... and it will continue to be an issue. Many HBCUs have to worry about keeping some of their most popular undergrad programs. Starting a Ph. D. in engineering is definitely considered a luxury. Even if Oprah DID give $40 million to the HBCU of her choice - which she does not have to do, you would have to have qualified folks overseeing the funds. If not, chaos will ensue (I'm talking to you Morris Brown College).

And if the government, expects HBCUs to catch up with these leading producers of Ph. D.s they really need to put their money where their mouths are. These ivies can do these kind of things because as my line brother says, "Harvard still has money from the pilgrims."

Re: What are you thankful for?

ETS — Thu, 19 Jul 2007 15:58:03 -0000

We are so ignorant when it comes to recognizing our own privileges and blessings. It's always nice to be reminded of them.

Re: ‘michael vick is an embarrassment’ edition : tech news 7/18

ETS — Thu, 19 Jul 2007 17:18:47 -0000

Vick is an embarrassment to who? That dude ain't got nothing to do with me! LOL.

Fear is healthy. Don't erase it.

Re: Looking to Get Away?

ETS — Fri, 20 Jul 2007 15:17:02 -0000

While I haven't been to one in a minute - because I've mainly stayed with family/friends almost everywhere I've been in the past several years, I swear by bread and breakfasts - especially when going somewhere new. It's always nice to have a guide.

Re: the next presidential debate : questions via youtube

ETS — Fri, 20 Jul 2007 15:32:05 -0000

Barack and Clinton will be at the National Association of Black Journalists Convention in Vegas in three weeks. I hope to have an update for you from there.

Re: Can “blackness” and faith co-exist?

ETS — Sat, 21 Jul 2007 08:50:09 -0000

Sorry Timothy. Call it what you want. But when you say that your church is the only church, and thus the only way to Heaven, you've made it clear where people who don't belong to your church are going. I honestly don't find that problematic. Faith gives us the freedom to believe and say such things. The problem is the refusal to acknowledge what you really believe. If you think so and so is wrong. Say it. Don't be scared to and back away from it.

Re: A ‘Better’ Title

ETS — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 20:01:33 -0000

Fred, I was thinking the SAME THING! LOL.

Plus, don't be fooled. I'll believe BET is serious about a healthy communitywide evaluating discussion when they change at least half their programming.

Re: A ‘Better’ Title

ETS — Thu, 26 Jul 2007 13:43:31 -0000

From a recent AP article

"Given BET's track record, those critics had reason to worry. After all, the Black Entertainment Network has provided a seemingly endless platform for hip-hop thuggery, booty-shaking video girls, lowbrow comedy shows, and Toccara."

Why they have to do Toccara like that?! LOL!

Re: A ‘Better’ Title

ETS — Fri, 27 Jul 2007 11:53:23 -0000

Yobachi -
Here's a link: http://www.charlotte.com/200/story/211558.html
If that doesn't work, google 'Hot Ghetto Mess' tepid, tired by NEKESA MUMBI MOODY

KM -
I wonder if Tocarra is just being herself or if she feels like she has to coon on that level just for BET. Topic for discussion: when is being yourself wrong? if ever?

Re: It’s not that entertaining … or at least shouldn’t be

ETS — Sat, 28 Jul 2007 20:09:48 -0000

What was it like when Star and Elisabeth got into it? I never saw that.

.

Re: the 5 most racist college nicknames

ETS — Wed, 01 Aug 2007 11:58:29 -0000

I guess this article was bound to get comments given the number of UNC alums connected this site. : )

I haven't read the link yet, but what is wrong with the word Tar Heel?

And GIB, don't retire your tomahawk chop yet. From what I've read, the Seminoles embrace FSU and love having their name used as the mascot. I'm going to look for the link now.

Re: the 5 most racist college nicknames

ETS — Wed, 01 Aug 2007 12:11:40 -0000

Just checked out the post ... it's really off.

It's UNC story is hilariously inaccurate.

Any look at New Mexico's official logos will show you they mean the wolf.

The Jayhawk is a mythical bird.

Issues with the word Hoosier don't speak much to views of "white trash," as much as it does to narrow-minded views of people from Indiana.

I got this info from Wikipedia, which I read previously in a NYT article:

FSU was exempt as both the 3,100-member Seminole Tribe of Florida and the 6,000-member Seminole Nation of Oklahoma officially approved the relationship and the details of the images used. The article states, "The Seminoles are the only American Indian tribe never to sign a formal peace treaty with the United States. To celebrate this status, Florida State erected Unconquered, a statue of Chief Osceola outside its football stadium."

And honestly, depending on how it was done, I wouldn't have a problem with a school calling itself the Zulu or the Songhai - especially an inner-city charter school that NEEDS some healthy, royal images to live up to.

Re: the 5 most racist college nicknames

ETS — Wed, 01 Aug 2007 12:15:23 -0000

correction:

Issues with the word Hoosier don’t speak much about it's connection to “white trash,” as much as it does to people's narrow-minded views about people from Indiana.

Re: The New Face of VIBE…

ETS — Wed, 01 Aug 2007 13:32:18 -0000

Will Obama become our new Jesse/Al? A dude who we (at least some of us) embrace but never makes it to a national office?

Re: black blog under assault by resident evil fanboys

ETS — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 12:13:56 -0000

I don't think anyone is overreacting, but I think you have to realize your audience - like you pointed out. I know this sounds stereotypical, but I'm not sure that I expect much more from video games' core demographic.

Re: Justice for all?

ETS — Fri, 03 Aug 2007 15:15:31 -0000

Good point, B. It will be harder for the judges to see her as a child if she’s grown.

Here’s the interview of Kelly’s wife:

http://www.essence.com/essence/lifestyle/voices...

Re: 5 things to consider before (and after) you start blogging

ETS — Mon, 06 Aug 2007 14:50:17 -0000

Do NOT post anything that can come back to haunt you. LOL. The internet is forever.

Re: Talk to ME, Hollywood!?

ETS — Wed, 08 Aug 2007 01:23:47 -0000

Just saw it. LOVED IT! So much to say .... Just go see it!

Re: UNICEF Educational Campaign for Africa: Boom or Bust?

ETS — Wed, 08 Aug 2007 16:11:03 -0000

This was done in poor taste. "Activism" or not - this is blackface. And there are too many generalizations. Why don't they just come out and say Africans walk around naked with bones in their noses!?

Re: Talk to ME, Hollywood!?

ETS — Sun, 12 Aug 2007 16:49:24 -0000

Not arguing foul play. Just wishing that some independent films were as accessable as others. I ended up seeing the movie ... in a mainstream theater.

Re: 10 things that are not ybp (young, black, or professional)

ETS — Wed, 15 Aug 2007 15:16:50 -0000

Who determines what business professional is?

Answer: The business.

Ok, so what about when we get in positions of power? Do we challenge those?

I speak as someone in the media, an industry that has adopted very non-African/black images of what is acceptable. What do you think about that?

Is there something inherently wrong with a guy delivering the news in locs or cornrows?

Re: dr. cornel west releases hip-hop album : never forget

ETS — Wed, 15 Aug 2007 16:42:32 -0000

LOVE Cornel. Is this spoken word? I guess I should read more about it.

Did ya'll know that Obama won a Grammy for best Spoken Word album last year?!

Re: 10 things that are not ybp (young, black, or professional)

ETS — Wed, 15 Aug 2007 16:44:19 -0000

Co-sign with Kay ... on some levels. When I came to job interviews in Phoenix and the Bay area in a suit, they laughed at me. I was watching the news in LA and the weatherwoman had on jeans. JEANS!!

Re: YBP? Yes. Expert? No.

ETS — Mon, 20 Aug 2007 19:52:56 -0000

In fairness, Harper didn't specifically call out Cosby - I did.

Some may call Cosby's approach tough love. I don't. The number of inaccuracies and generalizations he spews are unhealthy. Sure, we need diverse approaches, but all of them must be edifying - and I believe there's a way to do so while being "tough."

Re: Commentary or Contempt?

ETS — Tue, 21 Aug 2007 12:12:36 -0000

If you read the billboard in the back it shows the "spirit" in which this cartoon was drawn. I think it is a great cartoon. It just sucks that it is in a newspaper - something most of the cartoon's target audience doesn't read on a regular basis.

Re: Young, not so gifted and black

ETS — Tue, 21 Aug 2007 19:54:04 -0000

Kay, my wife and I were just talking about this just this morning. When I posted the above pic, it was all the green that spoke to me. I live in the desert, so grass is pretty much gold here. : )

My wife is very much an environmentalist and she - both of us, in fact - wishes there was more emphasis on taking care of the Earth in black communities.

We were talking about how some cities are making developers include "green space" in their projects. And I was wondering if developers knew why this was important or if they resent city councils because "that grass" could have been used for another house or something.

It's amazing how many of our societal issues are connected to the environment.

Re: YBP Guide to “it’s our wedding day!”

ETS — Sun, 26 Aug 2007 10:07:35 -0000

CONGRATS! Welcome to the club. : )

Re: There’s more to this thing than just the Mexicans

ETS — Tue, 28 Aug 2007 11:41:37 -0000

Some Cubans might want their government to receive the treatment that the Haitian government received, but I'm sure Haitians wanting to immigrate would love the opportunities Cubans wanting to leave their island have.

Re: Earth 911!

ETS — Tue, 28 Aug 2007 18:38:29 -0000

Thanks for this info. I'm a huge fan of getting more "green" info to our communities.

Re: Get it While the Getting is Good

ETS — Wed, 29 Aug 2007 09:03:59 -0000

What about good debt? Are lenders going to be tight on things like college loans?

Re: “hope you get half, shaunie o’neal” edition : tech news 9/5

ETS — Wed, 05 Sep 2007 11:33:22 -0000

Uh .... Fred ... you really hope she gets half?! She'll probably get at least $30 grand per kid - including the one that's not Shaq's.

Re: What were you thinking?!

ETS — Fri, 07 Sep 2007 18:17:05 -0000

Don't worry Dash. Fred and I spent some time in KC, so we won't hold it against ya'll. You still got Don Cheadle to rep for you!

Re: does black culture care about the environment?

ETS — Mon, 10 Sep 2007 12:43:18 -0000

I don't think most people see how/believe that a "bad" environment directly affects their quality of life negatively. If people keep talking about environmental harms in the "this is what will happen years from now" sense, then that is how most folks will respond. We're not really futuristic thinkers. Blacks are just a microcosm of this group.

Re: does black culture care about the environment?

ETS — Mon, 10 Sep 2007 15:14:40 -0000

I feel you Fred. And perhaps I was wrong to imply that we aren't futuristic thinkers. Perhaps it's better to say that we do think futuristically about certain issues.

Whenever trying to put out fires, you have to prioritize. I believe blacks are doing that - just like our elders and ancestors. I just don't think most of us view the environment as an issue of urgency relatively-speaking. Perhaps that can change if it is presented in a manner that shows how it affects education, health and the economy.

i guess my biggest concern is that i feel it is doing a disservice to our future generations.

part of the reason why black culture is so strong today, despite the adversity, is because of the forethought our ancestors had for us.

while its debatable the spectrum and magnitude of opposition and adversity, do we not owe it to our kids to continue the legacy of securing their future….even if it seems like a trivial subject?

Re: hedge funds the new m.b.a.?

ETS — Mon, 17 Sep 2007 14:38:04 -0000

I'm not sure that most of "us" have the option of foregoing things that are often optional for our white counterparts. I still believe we have to be above average to be considered "equal" in many scenarios.

Plus, a lot of attention needs to be paid to the failure rate.

Re: hedge funds the new m.b.a.?

ETS — Mon, 17 Sep 2007 22:18:52 -0000

You're right. We need to be aware of alternative routes - especially when they prove to be fruitful.

I just think that when we're talking about Wall Street in particular, most of us need to come to the table as "officially qualified" as possible to be given just some of the same chances that they get. But who knows, maybe things will or already have changed ...

Re: Investment Clubs - Part I

ETS — Wed, 19 Sep 2007 12:45:21 -0000

Good stuff man. Never heard of these. Although I'd be a bit nervous about joining one. I'm not that informed when it comes to investing, so I dont have many tips to offer. Plus I trust the advisors I have now. I'd hate to leave them for people like me.

Re: ten things i learned from kanye west and charles barkley

ETS — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 12:15:45 -0000

Funny how some of these contradict each other. : )

I value Kanye ... greatly. I really have no opinion on Barkley. Maybe I'd feel differently had he brough Phoenix a championship. ; )

Re: #1, Kanye really disappointed the status quo - specifically many of my friends - by saying pursuing an education because you're told to do so when those degrees have nothing to do with what you are supposed to do/want to do in life is unproductive. It needed to be said.

I've always been turned off by Kanye's calling out folks' problems but not being willing to change the same ones in himself. Addressing them but not changing them is wack. He is being held accountable. It reminds me of growing up in DC hearing Marion Barry telling us to stay off of drugs.

I think Barkley doesn't get that #3 is some folks' way of learning from their mistakes.

I understand West's tantrums, but I feel for him because he actually thinks they are acceptable. And that's sad.

#6 is the truth. Period. The ability to self-define - or at least, not be defined by the masses - is a great one.

Can't get with #9. If you wrong, say you sorry. But I dont think Barkley thought he was wrong in those situations, right?

Re: Egypt: Blacks or … non-blacks

ETS — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 12:18:35 -0000

I can get with Egyptians not self-identifying as black. Being able to self-identify is very important. And I think folks have that right even if every other person disagrees with them.

But TO ME they are African ... which is not the same as black. It is what it is.

And for what it's worth, I too think Jesus was not black. A man of color? Yes. Black? No.

Re: Are you Successful?

ETS — Tue, 02 Oct 2007 18:39:37 -0000

When are some lawyers and other professionals going to realize that it really isn't twice the pay when you factor in everything you have to give up for that salary?

Re: Does God care if I am Rich or Poor?

ETS — Tue, 02 Oct 2007 18:49:37 -0000

Well first, the wonderful thing about faith is that it is personal and free to interpretation.

I perosnally believe that Christ considers being simutaneously wealthy and righteous in this world challenging - not to be confused with wrong - because of how money and the desire for it switches our focus, priorities, etc. Not calling you out personally, but how many folks are consumed with money who don't really have it yet?! God knows what they'd be like if they actually had money.

And besides why do you want what you want? Cause Creflo and them got it? Are your intentions Godly?

I don't believe Jesus is a fan of poverty. We can talk about specific verses/passages but that would make this post longer than it needs to be. Is he a fan of humility (which is what the whole "no place to lay his head" bit was about - partially)? Yes. And I don't believe that humility and prosperity have to be antonyms.

Be careful with coveting. We can't imagine what comes with the riches we seem to drool over. Can we really handle the trials and challenges that come with having Dollar's dollars? I'll answer for you by saying no, simply because you don't even know what those challenges are.

Seek what God's will is for YOUR life. Find peace in that and pursue it.

Re: Does God care if I am Rich or Poor?

ETS — Thu, 04 Oct 2007 11:53:44 -0000

It's also worth mention that the Creflos and Warrens are such A SMALL percentage of Christian clergy. The vast majority aren't rich. You'd be surprised at how many are barely middle class.

Re: Black Film Spotlight: Chisholm ‘72: Unbought & Unbossed

ETS — Thu, 04 Oct 2007 11:58:48 -0000

Interesting you posted this. I just saw Bobby last night for the first time. I was like, wow, there was a time when people actually felt CONNECTED to presidential candidates. I'm not talking Clinton connected. And even most of us who look optimistically at Obama and Clinton are somewhat cynical. I hope these days aren't truly gone.

Re: The Soul Food Napkin #1

ETS — Fri, 05 Oct 2007 17:45:28 -0000

Fred, did you draw this?! LOL.

First hip hop, now this ...

Re: don’t have n!**a ears

ETS — Tue, 09 Oct 2007 11:46:02 -0000

I really didn't get the scene. Did they mean just listening to black music period gives one n*gga ears?!

Anyway ...

I've been on "white" music my whole life. Unlike these young folks when I was coming up MTV and VH1 used to ONLY play "white" music - aside from some Jackson every now and then. So I advise folks to check out some of the 80s masterpieces - which is probably why I'm really feeling Timbaland right now.

Re: Guess whose back in the …. house?!

ETS — Wed, 10 Oct 2007 10:36:00 -0000

"If I got fired for all the bad stuff I’ve done or said I’d never be able to get a job again."

CO-SIGN!!!

But still unsure about how I feel about his return ....

Re: ybps: get off the real estate bandwagon

ETS — Fri, 12 Oct 2007 17:58:16 -0000

"the dividends were not worth the stress."

Bottom line. Period. If you look up what's happening in Phoenix and many other places, I don't have to explain.

Re: Bell Returns

ETS — Sat, 13 Oct 2007 05:24:25 -0000

I looked over the article, but I don't get it. Did not Bell violate his probation by getting into the fight?

Re: Why do people hate on Tyler Perry?

ETS — Mon, 15 Oct 2007 17:26:30 -0000

Co-sign Kim. The writing started off rough in the beginning. It felt like a play ... but when it got going, it was smooth sailing.

Check out this good interview of Tasha Smith who played "Angela" - the funniest thing I've seen in film in a long time:
http://www.vibe.com/news/news_headlines/2007/10...

Re: The Path from Victims to Victors

ETS — Tue, 16 Oct 2007 11:57:41 -0000

were these problems put in context in the book or were they written as if they are only "black" problems - created and maintained by blacks and blacks alone?

Re: Take ‘Plus One’ Up a notch

ETS — Sun, 21 Oct 2007 10:00:46 -0000

^^^ Real talk.

And I've yet to hear the National Anthem performed better than Jimi Hendrix's version.

Re: I’m just saying …

ETS — Wed, 24 Oct 2007 12:47:21 -0000

MattPat -
I can't deny that I Would Die 4 U and When Doves Cry are classics ... despite Prince's messiah complex in the former song. The truth is I haven't heard enough of Purple Rain to say it shouldn't be #1.

I'm just saying folks shouldn't act like Mary J. Blige aint rip, "I was ya luvah and yo sek-kuh-terry!"

Dupree -
Only the Whitney Houston tracks on Bodyguard were cool. Side B was kinda garbage.

Leah -
I'm sure Lion King is on there. The soundtrack alone won like 10 awards.

Others emailed me privately and said don't forget Space Jam (I Believe I Can Fly) and Love Jones (the official neo soul soundtrack).

Do people still by soundtracks ... I mean of movies that are NOT musicals?

Re: Hip Hop Trends Bleed into the Book Market

ETS — Wed, 24 Oct 2007 20:58:12 -0000

I haven't read all of this yet, but this issue is so dear to me. Our generation LONGS for the days of the Harlem Renaissance and the Black Arts Movement. Where are the authors who really want to say something?!

Re: passion vs. paycheck

ETS — Fri, 02 Nov 2007 08:28:14 -0000

This was very encouraging Fred. I have been in a process of self-examination and I need to make some decisions. Quick.

Re: Socially Responsible Investing

ETS — Fri, 02 Nov 2007 08:31:23 -0000

PLEASE support organizations like kiva.org.

Re: Investigate This!

ETS — Mon, 12 Nov 2007 14:21:38 -0000

GIB, I'm over here saying Amen to almost everything you're saying! LOL.

Osteen's response was on point. Period.

I don't know how much is "appropriate" for a spiritual leader, but my real question is how do we determine that? Why is no one calling about Catholics? Business leaders? Or the Senate?! Why is it okay for us to make millions but our leaders can't?

Is there really a price you can put on "spiritual health" which for many governs every other health aspect?

Re: bitch fest

ETS — Tue, 27 Nov 2007 08:53:15 -0000

We're just a desensitized society. Nothing affects us and nothing is off limits anymore.

Re: ‘This Christmas’ I am mad!

ETS — Tue, 27 Nov 2007 13:39:57 -0000

: )

When I said "flamboyantly ethnic," I meant boldly or perhaps unapologetically African-American centered/focused. The criticisms highlighted in the post suggest that there is something negative with the movie not having "mass appeal," but instead having a "target audience." My point was that there is nothing wrong with certain types of black people making certain types of movies for certain types of people. We must stop allowing our cultures to be defined by the mainstream culture.

As far as blacks not embracing diverse views of themselves, is it because they don't see diversity or is it because they aren't exposed to diversity. There is a difference.

Re: another young, black professional…dead

ETS — Tue, 27 Nov 2007 17:00:05 -0000

Oh it's very fishy.

But I think Jem raises some fair, unspoken points. He/She is only saying what everyone else has been saying for years - what do black Americans, Africans, women and other historically oppressed groups of people have to do with me?

Re: 5 Feeds You Should Be Reading Everyday

ETS — Thu, 13 Dec 2007 12:27:39 -0000

I'm very ignorant when it comes to this computer stuff. So how many emails do you get a day? This sounds interesting, but I can't be going through a million emails.