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Does Hollywood Make Black Women Not Make Eye Contact? [GUEST BLOG]

Yalanda P. Lattimore — Fri, 05 Oct 2012 18:02:37 +0000

The following is our first of a series of GUEST BLOGS for NEWSONE.COM. If you would like to submit your own guest blog for consideration to be published on NewsOne.com, click here.

Congratulations to Yalanda P. Lattimore!

For more by NewsOne Guest Blogger, Ms. Lattimore, go to www.dryerbuzz.com

We are two months into our new Essence Magazine subscription. Magazines appear to be making a stable comeback after a brief slippery slope that we called The Dog and The Bone Syndrome — where major publications competed with bloggers and amateurs offering free online content. With that, decided to renew our household subscriptions, one being Essence magazine. The daughters are young ladies now and of course I could consider each issue as research.

The first issue to arrive at the house had Jada Pinkett Smith on the cover. The second had Jill Scott. I noticed how each issue came with it’s own little controversy before I could even let air slip into the pages. Jada was denouncing divorce rumors again. Jill Scott defended the murmur about her afro. Really? This is the essence of black women that I’m letting into my house. Is this our conversation? It is. Every day all day.

I grew up with magazines all over the house. Magazines set my imagination on fire. The late John H Johnson, publishers of Ebony and Jet magazines, was always mentor in my head. I keeps his narrated autobiography on my tablet when I wonder about why I do what I do. When Essence magazine came along, I made room in my mind of mentors for Susan L Taylor. Ok so I’m old school.

Being old school brought something to my attention as I browsed through the issues of Essence. Naturally since I love advertising, the ads stuck out more than the articles. One such movie ad (pictured) jumped off the page at me:

My first thought was “why is this woman staring at me?” It was so obvious the ad intended for her to connect to the reader. But wait. This is Essence magazine. The reader looks like the woman who is not making eye contact, which is Viola Davis. At that very moment I remembered a conversation I had with Angela Bassett four years ago about Hollywood (sorry to name drop). Angela Bassett was in Atlanta making an appearance as part of My Black is Beautiful, a touring event to inspire women.

Bassett told me about some of the tricks Hollywood loves to play with movie posters, such as making black actors appear smaller than their counter parts. I guess eye contact is the new thing. But then something else Angela and others said during My Black is Beautiful hit me. You can check out the panel in the link. Question today is why is this resonating with me four years later? Because years later, even with all the changes at Essence magazine, the problems of our image in media are still with us.

I tweeted, instagrammed and facebooked the ad asking “What’s wrong with this picture?” With a comment here and there, a conversation got started somewhat on twitter. There are always those who are quick to say, “don’t rock the boat,” and “let’s just be thankful.” However I am that person to quickly tell them to #gositdown. We are rocking this boat.

Viola Davis was one herself to say in some form or fashion not to rock the boat when women began to rise up about the movie The Help. In fact she told Tavis Smiley “our mindsets are destroying black artists.” Is my mindset destroying these black models because I want them to be able to make eye contact in advertising? Is the photographer telling them to look away black girl? Is the photo editor following a formula?

Davis even asked Smiley if she must always be noble in the choosing her roles. Click the link to watch it as it is a pretty good interview. Explains why some actors are always working and why some rather wait.

Let me say this to Viola Davis: girl they got you in this movie ad in Essence Magazine not making eye contact with your target audience and THAT IS MESSING WITH MY MINDSET. There must be a formula at work here. I’m just saying.

After I became inquisitive about the Won’t Back Down ad, I closed the issue with Jill Scott on the cover, her beauty staring back at me. Then I opened it again and began to flip page by page. Is there a formula at work here? Do black women not make eye contact in advertising? BAM!

There it was ad after ad. In the first ad of the sequence above, the Black woman is in the foreground with no eye contact, but her counterpart is in the background making eye contact with reader. Huh? I grabbed the previous issue with Jada Pinkett on the cover and BAM!

There it was again. Both ad sequences feature an ad with Queen Latifah. She is not making eye contact in either one. Even the little lunchable girls is looking away. I can’t even focus on her product and had to study to see what she was selling. Don’t tell me eye contact does not make a difference because it does. Peep the ads below. Don’t tell me you don’t feel different, pulled into, and engaged with the ads below. These ads were also found in Essence but few and far between.

When I started DryerBuzz, I hit the red carpet as a photographer. I quickly learned what sells and what doesn’t. Becoming a storyteller for African American women and men, quickly cut my invites and DryerBuzz was deemed a black publication. I just couldn’t stand by and watch the industry ignore the beauty in our stories. Today we try to advance towards diversity, but what is diversity when formulas like this exist?

I feel beautiful and connected with the ads above with eye contact. Essence is in no position to rock the boat, but, there must be formula at work here. We know advertising and media discriminates against women, but really? At the same time, are there levels and degrees of discrimination and programming within women? I’m not surprised. I’m just trying to be subtle and act like it is a conspiracy in case some of my readers can’t handle the blatant truth.

When thinking about it, are ads imitating life or programming it? Do we as Black women walk around not making eye contact. We do! Some of us go out of our way not to make eye contact. I know you have heard sisters talking about how some women break their necks to look away and not give a warm greeting. We always talk about how brothers greet each other even as strangers while women carry a scowl.

Since I’m always at networking events, I can tell you this is true. I have seen women park side by side, headed to the same event, and not greet each other. Whatever happened to “you had me at hello.” Oh wait, is that not a black thang?

Used to be, if you walked into a room and saw another woman, you knew you had an ally. Just back from a round of conferences, I can tell you — gone are the days — to some degree. Perhaps women, who will not make eye contact or share a warm greeting, keep their heads so buried in magazines where ads tell them they are secondary instead of primary.

There is a formula at work here. Don’t get it twisted. Given, it might be more business than personal, still it’s messing with our minds. All formulas can be tweaked. Your challenged today and everyday is to make eye contact and warmly greet each other.

I gotta go make some more buzz. But we’ll pick this conversation up in the comments below. Look around, do Black Women make eye contact?

#HairSheGoes ~ Yalanda P. Lattimore Buzz Authority, Cultural critic and Editor at http://DryerBuzz.com ~ Decade Blogging. You are buzz worthy.

Hair She Goes! — You just got the buzz from www.DryerBuzz.com — Combing the headlines. Transforming the way we look — at life.

Rumors Come True: CIA Can Spy On You Through Your TV?

Aimee H. — Wed, 21 Mar 2012 17:07:27 +0000

The CIA and the government spying on homes has been a part of the rumor mill for years. With so many “smart gadgets” available, that scary idea may actually become reality. Even “dumb gadgets,” such as refrigerators, ovens, and lighting systems are now linked to the Internet. So how is the future looking? It’s possible that we will be living “with TVs spying on their viewers and beds recording the dreams of those sleeping in them.” That’s not a future I’m looking forward to. What about you?

Innocent people, mostly minorities, are getting arrested because police officers need to meet quotas. This has become an issue in the 41st precinct in the Bronx and probably many other areas not brought to media attention. Watch this video as Adil Polanco, a former 41st-precinct NYPD officer, uncovers what really goes on behind the system and how it’s all a numbers game.

‘LIKE’ NewsOne’s FB Page To Stay Up On Black News From Around The World

A self-appointed neighborhood watch captain shot and killed an innocent 17-year-old Black boy making his way home on a rainy night. This story has been going viral on the Internet and here on NewsOne. His family shares their reactions on the phone recordings of the event and asks the public to take action to help arrest the killer. Is this a race issue as the story claims or just another tragic event?

Your Trash Is Now…Furniture?

Aimee H. — Fri, 09 Mar 2012 17:54:44 +0000

We all know recycling is a wonderful invention, but now recycling has a new meaning! An architect in New Mexico transformed a variety of trash, including car tires, glass bottles, and other unwanted garbage, into innovative furniture and buildings. Check it out!

Scientists now claim that a weird fish-like creature called “Pikaia Gracilens” is our oldest ancestor! I really don’t believe that humans were born from fish. Do you?

I’m sure we are all familiar with the Jim Crow Laws. Well, did you know that “a Black student is three and a half times more likely to be kicked out of school than his or her white peers”? Public schools just may be the new Jim Crow. Check out the details.

Can Milk Give You Cancer?

Aimee H. — Mon, 05 Mar 2012 14:14:50 +0000

It seems like everything is tied to cancer. Now, milk is apparently cancerous too. A new study from Harvard University says that pasteurized milk is linked to causing hormone-dependent cancers. Farms force their cows to eat genetically modified corn and other foods which makes them sick, and in turn, makes us sick! Are you going to stop drinking milk?

This 60-year-old Ohio man punches, suffocates, and stomps his girlfriend, causing one of her breast implants to explode! What is up with all this domestic violence? What do you think?

‘LIKE’ NewsOne’s FB Page To Stay Up On Black News From Around The World

Republican Rick Santorum calls President Obama a “snob” for encouraging students to get a college education. Isn’t this a little hypocritical since he pushed to make college more affordable when he was a senator? Watch the video and tell us what you think.

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Student Gets Stabbed For Not Being “Black Enough”

Aimee H. — Mon, 27 Feb 2012 18:51:24 +0000

Racial bullying happens every day. Despite being of Hispanic decent, a Connecticut student gets a stabbed in the back in addition to being called names like “Whitey” and “stupid White cracker.” Check out the story and join in the discussion!

Who knew televisions could kill? A few incidents have happened around Chicago lately that centers on fallen televisions that have caused injuries and even death! What’s up with these kids and hazardous televisions?!

Three men get charged with ethnic intimidation for beating a Black man last April, when he was visiting a friend in West Bloomfield. That’s two years in prison for these racist criminals. Thoughts?

Are You A U.S. Citizen? You May Be Assassinated …

Aimee H. — Fri, 24 Feb 2012 17:46:21 +0000

A pentagon lawyer says U.S. citizens accused of having ties to terrorist groups can be assassinated! What’s worse, U.S. courts don’t have the right to review these cases, because they are not allowed to judge decisions made by the Executive Branch. I’m not feeling so safe … are you?

How many times have you bypassed a scream or a suspicious act in your daily lives, thinking that somebody else probably heard or saw the act and will report it? Well, you’re letting crimes happen! This woman suffered 332 wounds, and after endless screaming, people who heard her still did not call the police. Check out this horrific story.

Do you have dreams about being a muscle man? We know the ladies wouldn’t complain. The nation’s top trainers spill the tricks of the trade to help you maximize muscle gain and strengthen yourself from head to toe. Will you try out some of these tricks?

Discussion: Police Offer $25,000 To Help Find M-Bone Killer

NewsOne Staff — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 21:24:49 +0000

Check out the top three news stories shared by BlackPlanet members!

1.Who Killed M-Bone?

Over the weekend, the Inglewood Police Department of California announced that they are offering $25,000 to anyone who has information on the gunman who shot Montae Talbert, aka M-Bone (pictured), of Cali-Swag District.

2. What Ever Happened To Ted Williams?

Entertainment Tonight catches up with the once-homeless Ted Williams to see how the past year has treated him since his video went viral on YouTube.

3. Triflin’ Hunters

In what would go in the overly trifling files, hunters are paying big money to fly to certain parts of Africa and kill giraffes. Bored lately?

Check out BlackPlanet’s News page for more headlines creating a buzz among BP members.

Discussion: Ex-Wife Says Gingrich Wanted An Open Marriage

NewsOne Staff — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 21:27:24 +0000

Check out the top three news stories shared by BlackPlanet members!

1. Open Marriage Anyone?
According to Newt Gingrich‘s ex-wife, Marianne, Gingrich wanted an open marriage, so he could have both a mistress and a wife. What’s worse, once his six-year affair came to light, he reportedly asked Marianne if she would be open to sharing.

2. Christianity Is On The Decline
Due to skepticism and apathy, Christianity is said to be having a marked decline among teens and young adults, according to the Pew Center. How younger generations perceive Christianity is reportedly far different from how their parents view the religion.

3. Added Pounds Could Cost Ya
With the international crackdown on obesity, some airlines are jumping in to the fray by taxing passengers on excessive grams of weight. Not every airline is on board, though, this controversial measure is being boycotted by Australian airline Quantas.

Check out BlackPlanet’s News page for more headlines creating a buzz among BP members.

Comment Of The Day: “[White Artists] Wouldn’t Have Such Careers Without Blacks To Pave The Way”

Nicole Hardesty — Wed, 20 Jul 2011 16:36:07 +0000

As you groove to the soulful sounds of Adele and Joss Stone, who do they remind you of? White Soul singers or, “blue-eyed soul singers,” as they’re commonly referred to, may have gotten their inspiration from some of the most soulful Black music artists in history, but are they keeping Black music alive today?

SimplyComplex_87 said:

how the hell do white artists keep black music ALIVE? they may be small contributors to the genre, but they wouldn’t have had such careers had it not been for black artists to pave the way…

Discussion: Black Strippers Discriminated Against Because They’re Not Hispanic

Nicole Hardesty — Thu, 14 Jul 2011 14:31:51 +0000

A strip club in Houston discriminated against Black dancers and waitresses because they did not appeal to their Hispanic customers. Check out more evidence for the discrimination suit and join the discussion.

Reviews around Google+ have been hitting blogs and websites over the past few days. One Social Media consultant blogged about the 2 reasons why you should avoid Google+. Check out his reasons and some of the comments on the BP News Page.

Yesterday, law makers fell short on the debt deal. BP members are now wondering just how serious are the Republicans about reducing the debt. Stay updated with Obama’s debt battle and read what others are saying about it.

Read other news stories shared by BP Members.

Comment Of The Day: “Stop With The Pity Party”

Nicole Hardesty — Thu, 07 Jul 2011 17:25:13 +0000

Casey Anthony’s ‘not guilty’ verdict outraged a number of people on Wednesday and the dust hasn’t settled yet. Blacks are claiming racism and comparing her to the O.J. Simpson Trail. The case has turned into a “If she was Black…” movenent. So NewsOne raised the question, How Should Black People Feel About Casey Anthony? While most agree, some have voiced different opinions.

Missx Said:

7 black kids stomp an elderly white man to death in Seattle and get 3 weeks to 24 months. Bernie Madoff, an elderly white man gets 150 years for stealing from rich people. Stop with the pity party.

What do you think about the racism undertone of Casey Anthony’s verdict?

How Should Black People Feel About Casey Anthony?

Casey Anthony found not guilty of murdering daughter

Comment Of The Day: “Oprah, You Are Not God”

Nicole Hardesty — Thu, 23 Jun 2011 21:22:43 +0000

Reports spread that O.J. Simpson allegedly arranged to sit with Oprah Winfrey to discuss and confess to the murder of his ex-wife Nicole Brown. After a long and grueling trial in 1995, Simpon’s lawyers triumphed and he went free. A controversy that split the country for years seemed to finally be on the brink of an answer. NewsOne readers shared their thoughts on the subject.

phatkeys said:

1. Oprah u are not God, or Dr. King, so sit the hell down and do yo talk show.
2. OJ did it…
3.smh @ the media
4. WTF? i mean really…
5. refer back to # 2

And that pretty much sums it up…

Discussion: Scientist Synthesizing Meat From Human Feces?

Nicole Hardesty — Mon, 20 Jun 2011 21:40:00 +0000

Stories buzzing on BlackPlanet News are creating discussion on a variety of topics.

Japanese scientists are synthesizing meat from human feces. The ‘poop burger’, is an artificial meat created from sewage containing human feces. Edible steaks from human feces? What do you think?

Prostitution is on the rise and on November 4th San Diego, California will decide whether to stop penalizing those who partake in it. The decision will not make the related acts legal, but it would keep those involved fear-free of arrest.

A YouTube video goes viral when a White woman explains why she’s pissed at Black people. She’s got some strong feelings about being 34 years old and not being informed about Cocoa Butter.

The economy. Is it or isn’t it? New reports show that the Black Male Unemployment Rate is 17.5%. The Black male rate has always been higher than national levels, but they are now currently reaching Depression era-levels.

Check out BlackPlanet’s News page for more headlines creating a buzz among BP members.

Comment Of The Day: "Get Off His Knees On The Apology Tour"

Nicole Hardesty — Mon, 20 Jun 2011 21:39:42 +0000

Last week, Tracy Morgan went on an anti-gay rant saying, “I’d kill my son if he was gay.” Immediately after, Morgan has been under scrutiny by the media, the gay community and his fellow actors. Damage control is in full effect as he publicly apologizes for his actions, including explaining that his father died from AIDS.

Now Morgan, meets with LGBT homeless teens in NY and apologizes again.

The BlakGuy said:

I wish Tracy would get off his knees on the Apology Tour. Are these people trying to tell me that there are no racist, cheating, lying, criminals in the Gay and lesbian community.

Is he doing too much? When will Tracy Morgan have repented enough?

Here Are Some Good, Fun and Interesting Articles You May Have Missed!

NewsOne Staff — Mon, 29 Nov 2010 16:25:52 +0000

You may have happened to miss a story or two while perusing the sites last week, so, I’ve done you a favor and gathered some of the articles I think you may have interest in. No, no, no tip is needed, it’s part of my job! Enjoy and leave comments!!

The First Family Attends A Howard University Basketball Game

AIDS Activist Plans To Row Boat From Africa To New York To Fight The Deadly Disease

Thanksgiving 2010: Single Georgia Mom Of 4 Awarded New Home

Bill Cosby Takes Education Message To Conn. Streets

Obama’s Volunteer At DC Food Pantry For Thanksgiving

13-Year-Old Saves Baby Brother From Bullet After Mom’s Boyfriend Shot Family

Kobe Bryant Says Michael Jackson Made Him The Basketball Player He Is

Black Entrepreneur Helps Detroit Creperie Rise From The Ashes

Economist Predicts Pres. Obama Will Win ‘12 Election In Landslide

Why We Still Need Black-Owned Banks

Is Money A Thoughtful Gift?

How To Find Comfort In Your Daily Routine

How To Decorate Your Bedroom This Christmas

Mariah Carey Films “Merry Christmas To You” TV Special [PHOTOS]

Your Weekly Horoscope With Psychic To The Stars Psychic Wayne

How To Choose A Bottle Of Wine

Kelis, Christina Milian & More Bring Kids Out To “Yo Gabba Gabba Live!” [PHOTOS]

Exfoliate Your Lips With Sugar

Ochocinco’s Bride-To-Be Evelyn Lozado: “We Are Like Beyonce & Jay-Z”

How To Create An Effortless-Looking French Braid

Jay-Z’s “Decoded” Lands On NY Times Best Seller List

Uncle Luke Lands Assistant Coach Job At Miami High School

Five Ways The Miami Heat Can Salvage Their Season

Sykes On A Plane!!! [Daily Laugh]

Birdman & Young Money Give Out Turkeys For Thanksgiving [PHOTOS]

Kevin Hart Talks Divorce & Why Comedians Love Leather [AUDIO]

Should Michael Vick Be The NFL MVP? [VIDEO]

“My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy” Album Review

Nicki Minaj Album Review

2 Easy Recipes Even A Man Can Do: Sweet Potato Pie & 4 Cheese Macaroni

Some Good, Some Fun and Others You May Have Missed!

NewsOne Staff — Mon, 22 Nov 2010 21:12:37 +0000

It’s that time again!!! Enjoy some of these posts you may have overlooked while enjoying the great content on the site!!

Barbie Recall: The 10 Most Absurd Lyrics From Nicki Minaj’s Pink Friday

Four Web Sites To Buy Hard-To-Find Black Movies

Lavell Crawford on Eating Tsunamis [Daily Laugh]

C’mon SON 20: Raz-B, George Bush, Mc Hammer & Four Lokos [VIDEO]

Five Better Career Moves For Flavor Flav

Talib Kweli Doing Free Concert In L.A. November 24th

Common’s Memoirs Coming To Stores In June of 2011

Samuel L. Jackson Stars As Jimmy McMillan In “The Rent Is Too Damn High!!” [SPOOF]

Jimmy Fallon & Bruce Springsteen Cover Willow Smith’s “Whip My Hair” [VIDEO]

A Toast To The Douchebag: Kanye West’s Most Outrageous On-Camera Moments [VIDEO]

How To Help Black Males In School: Treat Them Like Gifted Students

Kansas African American Museum Honors Barry Sanders

Celebrated Black Chef Prepares For Launch Of Much-Awaited Harlem Restaurant

Sharpton, NYPD Team Up To Get Guns Off Streets

White House Report: Stimulus Law Boosted Economy, Jobs

“Work It Out!” First Lady Races Kids At Harlem School

Mandela Gives Birth To South African Democracy

KFC Offers $20,000 College Scholarship For Best Tweet

Gospel Artists and Choirs To Raise Voices, Stroke Awareness

How To Teach Black Children

5 Ways To Survive Black Friday

Broke, Not Broken: Letting Go Of Financial Stress In Your Marriage

5 Simple Things To Do Before Your Guests Arrive This Holiday Season

First Lady Michelle Obama Brings “Let’s Move” Campaign To Harlem School [VIDEO]

Jennifer Lopez & Marc Anthony To Launch His & Her Clothing Lines For Kohl’s

Win A Trip To NY To See R. Kelly Perform Live!

Top 5 Thanksgiving TV Moments! [VIDEOS]

Decorate Your Bathroom On A Budget

Spotlight: BlackPlanet Member, Posivitively Mimi

How To Maintain An Organized Living Room

BlackPlanet member, MELANIN7, Overstands The Stresses Of Time

NewsOne Staff — Wed, 17 Nov 2010 20:58:42 +0000

BlackPlanet member, MELANIN7, is from the Bronx (Home of the New York Yankess and Birthplace of Hip Hop) in New York City. He is the author of Overstanding the Stresses of Time, which is being sold in Black book stores and online. You can check out his profile here to learn more about him.

MELANIN7

Start Gallery

In Trying Times, Keep Your Head Up!

Spotlight Group: The Artist Lounge

You Mean There Is Still Racism?

The Good, The Fun and Others You May Have Missed!

NewsOne Staff — Fri, 12 Nov 2010 20:43:40 +0000

So there’s been a little change since the last I posted some links for you. Now, this will incorporate good news, fun articles and/or anything that you may have missed that you may find appealing. Work with me here!

More Black Coaches Get Positions In College Football

Black SC Civil War Vet Honored With Grave Marker

Bebe Winans Gets Nationally Syndicated Show On Sirius Radio

Spelman College Students Win National Mobile App Competition

Alvin Greene Considers Running For President In 2012

New Haven Connecticut Offers Its Students Free College Tuition

And1 Celeb Basketball Food & Toy Drive [Atlanta 10/10]

Radio One Chairwoman Cathy Hughes Inducted Into National Radio Hall Of Fame

What We As Citizens Can Do Beyond The Ballot

BET’s Black Girls Rock Honor African-American Queens

Which Celebrity Has The Best Smile? [PHOTOS]

Your Weekly Horoscope With Psychic To The Stars Psychic Wayne

Fellas, Are Your Dating Skills On Point?

Amel Larrieux: “Independent Artists Of Color Are Too Under The Radar” [EXCLUSIVE VIDEO]

5 Questions With…Ingrid B.

Barack & Michelle Obama Dance With Local Children In India [VIDEO]

Iman Set To Debut New Show

4 Smart Holiday Shopping Tips

Enter HelloBeautiful’s Prize Package Sweepstakes!

7 Tips To Spend Less And Erase Holiday Stress

10 Movies With Rappers That Didn’t Suck

5 Great War Films For Veterans Day

Natalie “The Floacist” Stewart Speaks On New Album And Possibility Of Floetry Reunion

Top 5 Casting Choices For Catwoman

Akon Plans To Build University, Hospitals For Under Privileged

Denzel And The Dude From Star Trek Save America In “Unstoppable”

Chris Rock Narrating Busta Rhymes’ New Album

R Kelly And Ron Isley Behind The Scenes Of The Soul Train Awards Singing “Contagious”

DJ Irie Drops Jewels For Charity

Drake To Be Executive Producer Of “The Aaliyah Story?”

And1 Celeb Basketball Food & Toy Drive

NewsOne Staff — Mon, 08 Nov 2010 19:25:31 +0000

Atlanta (AP) — Atlanta City Councilman, Kwanza Hall and And1 streetballer, Dennis “Spyda” Chism will join the fight, this holiday season, to strike hunger and support two worthy organizations. On Wednesday, November 10, the two will greet donors as they drop off food and toys at Licquid in the Castleberry Hills area of downtown Atlanta between 4 p.m. — 8 p.m.

Actors, rappers, professional athletes and tastemakers are lending their time this holiday season to help Atlanta’s low-income families. The Pamela Mitchell Jones Foundation (PMJF) and Divva Biz in conjunction with Blessings in the Sky Foundation (BITS) is hosting the 2nd Annual Hoops4Food Celebrity Basketball Game and Food Drive-thru starting the second Wednesday in November and culminating with the celebrity basketball game on Wednesday, December 15.

1. Hoops4Food Celebrity Food Drive-Thru: Donors will drive-up to drop off nonperishable food items and unwrapped toys while being greeted by celebrity supporters. There will be complimentary food and drinks by Bang Catering with music provided by DJ Blak Magic for those supporters who want to mingle after making their donation.

Dates: Wednesdays; November 10, 17 and December 1

Time: 4 p.m. – 8 p.m.

Where: Licquid, 294 Walker Street, Atlanta, Ga 30313

2. Hoops4Food Celebrity Basketball Game and Food Drive: Teams will consist of celebrities and staff from Konvict Music, HAH Enterprises, Block Entertainment Atlanta radio’s Hot 107.9 Hot Shots, former And1 streetballlers (now the Get Buckets Brand Streetballers http://www.GetBucketsBrand.com) and a host of actors and comedians. Funds raised from this event will benefit the PMJF and BITS.

Date: Wednesday, December 15, 2010

Time: 7:30 p.m.

Where: Adamsville Recreational Center, 3201 Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, Atlanta, Ga 30311

Purchase Celebrity Game tickets for only $5 at http://www.hoops4food.eventbrite.com or in-person at Licquid located at 294 Walker Street in Atlanta (call Licquid at 404.343.6449).

Food collected will be donated to needy families that fit the criteria of the host organizations.

PMJF Mission – The PMJF is dedicated to providing families and individuals who suffer from neurodegenerative diseases (multiple sclerosis, Parkinson, etc…) with resources and opportunities via food, financial assistance and other social services for a better quality of life. (www.pmjf.org)

BITS Mission – To restore core Family values through the development of Family activities that promote trust, bonding, and unity; to empower the youth through motivation, education, and mentorship; and to uplift the homeless and hungry by providing essential resources that no person should be forced to live without. (www.thebitsonline.org)

2009 Food Drive Recap – The PMJF Food Drive, on December 10, 2009, was a success. Dretam PR staff, family and friends showed great support for the organization’s inaugural event. We were able to provide a box of food and grocery store gift cards for two families. Special thanks to Jo Ann of the MS Society’s African Americans with MS Self-Help Group. With her assistance, we were able to locate our recipients, MS patients Linda Penn of Marietta and Marquetta Boone of Smyrna. Notorious street ball player and PMJF 2009-2010 ambassador, Dennis “Spyda” Chism (AND1 ESPN2 series), helped us to deliver the donations.

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Kanye West surprises Delta passengers with an impromptu performance [from TheUrbanDaily.com]

Kat Stacks has a 90% chance of being deported [from TheUrbanDaily.com]

Ray J falls on stage! [from HelloBeautiful.com]

5th Annual Black Girls Rock Awards in NYC [from HelloBeautiful.com]

Good News Everyone!

NewsOne Staff — Thu, 28 Oct 2010 20:04:58 +0000

With all the content the team here at BlackPlanet is producing, I’m sure you tend to overlook some good stories from time to time, so I’ve provided you several links from the various websites under our banner so you can get a chance to look at some of the more positive articles that have been posted in the past week.

Pursuing The Elusive Good Life

The Military Chic Trend: Down To Your Nails

Chrisette Michele On The Set Of “I’m A Star” Video [PHOTOS]

6 Feng Shui Tips To Arrange Your Living Room

Christina Milian & Eva Longoria Support Cancer Survivors At “Start Your Engines” Brunch [PHOTOS]

Monica Celebrates 30th Birthday With Fiance Shannon Brown [PHOTOS]

5 No-Money Home Makeover Ideas

Halle Berry Takes Daughter Nahla To A Pumpkin Patch [PHOTOS]

Quick Ways To Stay In Shape & Burn Calories

3 Ways To Stand Out In The Workplace

Obama Approval Rating Rises As Midterm Elections Approach

Common And Roasario Dawson Host New HBO Poetry Show

New Program Encourages Health Screenings In Barbershops

Kanye West Fans Call ‘Runaway’ Film ‘Hands-Down Amazing’

President Obama Releases “It Gets Better” Video to LGBT Youth

President Obama, Michelle Obama Encourage Americans To Vote

Spike Lee, Chris Rock And Others Star In Film Inspiring Black Youth

Baltimore’s Black Male Students Show Improvement

Obama Makes A Direct Appeal To Black Voters [AUDIO]

Starting A Plan For Economic Empowerment

Chris Brown Helps Raise Money For The Special Olympics

If You’re A Fan of Ole Skool Music, This Is For You

Jay-Z To Work On President Obama’s 2012 Campaign?

Pharoahe Monch Premieres Anti-Police Brutality Anthem, “Clap (One Day)”

Five Reasons Carmelo Anthony Will Be A Knick

Rhymefest Running For Alderman In Chicago

CEO Flow: Jay-Z’s Richest Rhymes

Skillz Responds To BET’s Cypher Invite, Preps New Album

Beats, Rhymes & Organic Food?

NewsOne Staff — Mon, 25 Oct 2010 18:46:43 +0000

For the past six years, The Organic Hip Hop Conference has become a leading voice in advocating healthy living through Hip Hop culture to the South Florida community. Just as Hip Hop as a culture and movement was founded under the principle of saving the lives of the youth in the streets of the South Bronx in the 1970s, the legacy continues today, as the message of Organic Hip Hop is oriented towards setting new qualitative standards in the ways that we think, eat and act as individuals, families and communities.

Since 2004, the breadth of the conference has expanded. It began as a lecture symposium coupled with a vegetarian banquet, conscientious entertainment and cultural venders at Florida International University’s Biscayne Bay. Since then, it has turned into an annual staple experience for the community filled with workshops, film screenings, award ceremonies and concerts. In recent years it has been held in key cultural South Florida locations; at the Miami Light Project’s Light Box near Wynnewood’s distinguished arts community (2008) and the historic African Cultural Arts Center in the heart of the Liberty City community (2009). The conference has attracted people of different genres who seek to promote Hip Hop as a culture and force that can positively transform lives. Past Organic Hip Hop events featured cultural and intellectual icon KRS One, Professor Griff of the famed Rap group Public Enemy, Queen Afua and Supa Nova Slom, Brother J (of X Clan), journalist Davey D, holistic dietician Dr. Laila O. Afrika and community leader Min. Rasul Muhammad.

Need To Be Stimulated? A Mind Once Stretched Is Where You Need To Be!

The 7th Annual Organic Hip Hop Conference will take place on October 29 – 30, 2010. Unlike previous conferences, it will be a part of a larger national movement of collective responsibility among artists called the MIA (Music is Alive) Campaign. Congruently, the theme of this year’s conference will be “Building a National Movement of Responsibility.” Co-sponsoring the conference will be Difference Makers, Inc. Non-Profit Organization and the FIU African and African Diaspora Studies Graduate Students Association.

Day 1 of the conference (Friday, October 29) will be held at Florida International University’s Modesto Maidique Campus. From 9 am to 3 pm, both public and private school educators are invited to partake in workshops demonstrating how to incorporate the empowering voice of Hip Hop in day to day classroom activities. Workshop instructors include Organic Hip Hop Conference co-organizer Tony Muhammad, Hip Hop Chess Federation co-founder Adisa Banjoko, national recording artist behind the “Free the Jena 6” anthem Jasiri X. Smith, MIA Campaign founder Arian Muhammad AKA Poetess and PATH (Preserving, Archiving & Teaching Hip Hop History) founder Brimstone 127.

If There Is A New Movement, It’s Here!

Workshop instructors will convene again at 7:30 pm for a panel discussion on the importance of “Building a National Movement of Responsibility” within Hip Hop. Immediately following the panel discussion there will be a live band local artist showcase featuring J Phonnix; Laguardia; Mecca AKA Grimo; Lip, Tongue and Ears founder Shamelle Jenkins; Kimani Kenyatta; Big Babatunde; Orion and Lox the Rippa. To attend please RSVP the AADS GSA by calling 305-348-4264.

Day 2 of the conference (Saturday, October 30) will be held at two locations. The first portion will be held at the historic African Heritage Cultural Arts Center in Liberty City. From 10 am to 2pm, youth as well as families are invited to participate in interactive workshops oriented towards healthy eating, thinking and living. Workshop topics include “A New Diet for the Hip Hop Generation,” “Kemetic Yoga 101,” “The Value of the Spoken Word” and “Chess and the Martial Arts.”

In Trying Times, Keep Your Head Up!

On Saturday evening, MIA Campaign organizers will gather at Catalyst for a “Build Session” with Miami Hip Hop community leaders for the purpose of discussing how to develop and expand educational and cultural programs both locally and nationally. Shortly following the “Build Session” attendees will engage in games of chess, checkers and dominos while local DJs spin smooth grooves and artists display their talents open mic style.

For more info, visit http://www.organichiphopevent.wordpress.com.

It's Your History. How Do You Want To Celebrate It?

NewsOne Staff — Thu, 14 Oct 2010 04:38:07 +0000

Black History Month comes around every February; and every year, the media provide you countless commemorations, celebrations and presentations.

But it’s your history; shouldn’t you decide how to celebrate it?

BlackPlanet is giving its members a unique opportunity to design their own Black History Month campaign. We want to celebrate the month your way. Be as creative as you want to be—suggest a way to honor our rich history through a online or live event.

Just click the link here before October 15 to get started.

This Week in Blackness' Elon James White

NewsOne Staff — Tue, 12 Oct 2010 19:41:12 +0000

Elon James White is a Brooklyn-based comedian, writer and host of the popular web series “This Week in Blackness”, seen here on News One. Check out his profile for updates on upcoming shows!

Elon James White

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Nelly To Make A Tip Drill Movie [from TheUrbanDaily.com]

50 Cent’s Film Company Lands $200 Million In Funding [from TheUrbanDaily.com]

Hello Beautiful Goes To The White House [from HelloBeautiful.com]

Kim Kardashian Goes Completely Nude For W Magazine [from HelloBeautiful.com]

Kelly Rowland Embarrassed By Kanye Shoutout In “Power” Lyric [from HelloBeautiful.com]

If There Is A New Movement, It’s Here!

NewsOne Staff — Wed, 15 Sep 2010 21:30:36 +0000

Continuing on the ‘intellectual’ phase for BlackPlanet groups, The New Movement, boasts about helping to speak about the ills of society amongst each other. Join this group to join in with fellow members in the conversation.

BP Member Spotlight: DJ Sandia

BP Group Spotlight: Black Love Poetry

BP Member Spotlight: Fefe Dobson

5 Very Opinionated BlackPlanet Members

Need To Be Stimulated? A Mind Once Stretched Is Where You Need To Be!

NewsOne Staff — Tue, 14 Sep 2010 21:40:42 +0000

Yes, peoples, I do read your comments and pay attention to what you say! On the advice of the News One BlackPlanet members, I am featuring an intellectual group I overlooked and would like to focus the attention on them now. A Mind Once Stretched, from my understanding, will elevate your mind and have you engaged in real discussion. Click here to join the group. Thanks to all of you who commented on my previous post!

Where Do the Intellectuals Gather on BlackPlanet?

BP Group Spotlight: African American Independent & Amateur Filmmakers

Hip Hop CAN Be Positive, Just Ask Author, Tachelle Wilkes

Illustrating Activist, Lance Scurvin, Provokes Discussions With His Art

Now Why Would He Call Himself Sub-Negro?

NewsOne Staff — Thu, 09 Sep 2010 20:50:26 +0000

If there ever were someone who is a regular here on News One, I’m sure you’ve seen and/or read some of his comments on these very pages. Today’s BlackPlanet Spotlight, calls himself Sub-Negro. Why? Well, Check out his profile here and hit him up to find out why! Until then, be on the lookout for whatever he has to say regarding, well, just about anything…..

Sub-Negro

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5 Very Opinionated BlackPlanet Members

Where Do the Intellectuals Gather on BlackPlanet?

The Omar Thornton Shootings Show Us Racism Is Here To Stay

BP Member Spotlight: Ryan Mack

5 Very Opinionated BlackPlanet Members

NewsOne Staff — Wed, 01 Sep 2010 22:16:32 +0000

We have a very eclectic group of BlackPlanet members who are very opinionated and will let their opinions be known at the drop of a dime. These 5 members can be seen in the BP News section and you can almost hear their voices as you read the comments they leave. Check out their profiles (Click on the member names below) and visit the BP News section to see what fires them up!

SELFHATE7 (Pictured above)

Master See Proves You’re Never Too Old

BP Member Spotlight: Sean M Lee

BP Member Spotlight: Casey Gane

BP Member Spotlight: Charlie Murphy

Where Do the Intellectuals Gather on BlackPlanet?

NewsOne Staff — Tue, 24 Aug 2010 21:44:46 +0000

The Intellects DO gather at BlackPlanet! To make it easier for you to have access and join some of the groups here, I’ve given you 5 links to active groups that want engaging conversation on various topics. Enjoy and if you know or have any groups you’d like to add to this, just leave it in the comment section.

A Think Tank for US

My Intellectual Mind

BlackPlanetRising

African American Business Network

NewsOneWashingtonWatch

What Books Are You Reading?

NewsOne Staff — Fri, 20 Aug 2010 11:10:44 +0000

The literacy and intelligence of America and the world, usually starts with books even before school is started. Many like-minded readers enjoy indulging in well-written books and like sharing the experiences of the reading with other BlackPlanet members. This is why this group, BlackPlanet Book of the Month, is worth showcasing.

Click here to see what your peers are reading and suggest a book or two as well.

Vote For NewsOne And BlackPlanet In The Black Web Awards

NewsOne Staff — Sat, 14 Aug 2010 11:05:57 +0000

Since the inception of NewsOne.com and over the ten-plus year history of BlackPlanet.com, we have striven to provide Black America with an engaging forum and network, to provoke thoughtful as well as positively engaging material for Black people. Due to our efforts at NewsOne.com, BlackPlanet.com, and HelloBeautiful.com; our sites have all recently joined an elite group competing in this year’s Black Web Awards!

The Black Web Awards is a global celebration of African, African American and Caribbean themed excellence online. The BlackPlanet Universe as a collection has been nominated for 3 awards; BlackPlanet is nominated for Most Important Site for Black America, NewsOne has been nominated for Best News Site, and HelloBeautiful.com has been nominated for Best Lifestyle & Entertainment E-Zine. (If you want to write in TheUrbanDaily.com, as best entertainment site, you can here.)

Much of our success could have not been achieved without our readers and our BlackPlanet community, for that we thank you all. Please show your appreciation of our sites by VOTING for your favorite sites on The Black Web Awards website.

Breaking News for Black America » BP Community

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Good News Everyone!

Beats, Rhymes & Organic Food?

It's Your History. How Do You Want To Celebrate It?

This Week in Blackness' Elon James White

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If There Is A New Movement, It’s Here!

Need To Be Stimulated? A Mind Once Stretched Is Where You Need To Be!

Now Why Would He Call Himself Sub-Negro?

5 Very Opinionated BlackPlanet Members

Where Do the Intellectuals Gather on BlackPlanet?

What Books Are You Reading?

Vote For NewsOne And BlackPlanet In The Black Web Awards

Vote now for BlackPlanet

Vote now for HelloBeautiful

Vote now for NewsOne

Write-in TheUrbanDaily