HATE it or NOT: GRIZZLIES beat Celtics 90-87

Tony Allen of the Memphis Grizzlies celebrates after he made a three point shot in the second half against the Celtics on Wednesday in Boston, Massachusetts. The Grizzlies won 90-87. (Elsa/Getty Images)

BOSTON — Grizzlies newcomers Tony Allen and Leon Powe received a warm welcome from the TD Garden crowd during player introductions.

The former Boston Celtics players gladly absorbed the appreciation. They were just as happy to send the Celtics crowd home sad.

Allen and Powe took their return to Boston personally and the Grizzlies treated the start of a two-game excursion like a business trip. The result for the Grizzlies on Wednesday night was a 90-87 victory over the Boston Celtics, followed by a loud celebration from the visitors’ locker room.

“You see the smile on my face,” said Powe, who tied Zach Randolph with a team-high 13 points off the bench.
The Griz (40-32) began their toughest week of the remaining schedule on the right foot, considering that the surging Chicago Bulls are next Friday. Memphis then hosts the San Antonio Spurs on Sunday.


The Grizzlies’ largest lead of the night was 36-26 in the second period, largely because of Powe’s work on both ends of the court.
“This team plays my style of ball,” Powe said. “It’s a post-up team. I felt like I got in a rhythm and the guys worked hard. This was a good win for us. It’s huge. It just adds fuel to our confidence.”


Read more from the source

ALL I CAN SAY IS GO GRIZZLIES!!!!!! 

WTF: Woman Eats Needle in Chili's Mashed Potatoes

A New Mexico woman bit into a meal at Chili's and wound up with a 2-inch needle in her tongue, according to a lawsuit.

Ashely Phillips, 23, was chowing down on ribs and mashed potatoes in July when the mishap left her in pain. Then there was the alarm over whether she had been exposed to a life-threatening disease.
Phillips said Chili's employees quickly took away the needle and a manager refused to hand it back to her when she and her husband returned to request it for testing. She said the company took 52 days to send the needle to a testing lab.

In the meantime, Phillips said she tested negative for HIV, hepatitis and other potential infections. But she has stopped nursing her 2-month-old child.

"I had to stop nursing my son," Phillips told the Farmington Daily Times. "Nursing is so important for an infant's health and emotional development that we are suing for emotional damages."
The lawsuit was filed in the San Juan County District Court on March 9.
The couple said the needle tested negative when the chain got the results back. But Phillips said there's no way to know whether the needle was cleaned.

"It takes a while for some of these things to show up," she said. "We have to go back for more testing in a year."
Representatives at Chili's declined to comment.

Mitch Burns, attorney for Phillips, said his client was "injured by the needle once and then twice by Chili's corporate office who failed to produce the needle" soon after it was requested.

 Read more from the source

I guess its a good idea to look at your food before you eat it? I wonder if she was texting on her phone and just picking up food? At any rate, OUCH!!!!!! I am sure she has nightmares about eating out in any restaurant

RIP Nate Dogg: Hip Hop Legend

One of rap's most lauded male hook singers, Long Beach, California native Nate Dogg (born Nathaniel Hale) died on Tuesday at the age of 41 after several years of health problems.
With his deep, melodic voice and smooth soul rumble, Dogg was one of the key elements in the rise of the West Coast G-Funk sound pioneered by Death Row Records in the early 1990s. Though overshadowed by such peers as Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg and Warren G, Nate was a critical participant in a number of major left-coast gangsta hits, including G's "Regulate" and Dre's iconic solo debut, 1992's The Chronic.
Hale's death was first reported by the Long Beach Press Telegram, which noted that his family announced his death on Tuesday. The cause of death was not announced at press time, but Hale had struggled with serious health issues recently, including suffering a massive stroke in 2007 that left him partially paralyzed and another the following year. A spokesperson for the singer could not be reached for comment at press time for further details on his passing.
Nate was a four-time Grammy nominee, earning his first nod in 1995 for the legendary Warren G collaboration "Regulate," followed by another in 2001 for providing a hook to the Dre and Snoop tune "The Next Episode." He earned his third notice in 2002 for singing on Ludacris' "Area Codes" and another in 2007 for his work on Eminem's "Shake That.

"We lost a true legend n hip hop n rnb" tweeted Snoop. "One of my best friends n a brother to me since 1986 when I was a sophomore at poly high where we met. I love u buddy luv. U will always b wit me 4ever n a day u put the g n g funk u put the 1 n 213 n u put yo stamp on evrybdy u ever didit wit ... I miss u cuzz I am so sad but so happy I got to grow up wit u and I will c u again n heaven cuz u know d slogan. ... All doggs go to heaven yo homie n baby brotha bigg snoopdogg!!"
"R.I.P. TO MY HOMEBOY NATE DOGG DPGC DOGG POUND GANGSTA 4 LIFE," tweeted Daz.
"There is a certain void in hip hop's heart that can never be filled. Glad we got to make history together. RT @SnoopDogg: RIP NATE DOGG," tweeted Ludacris.

Read More From the Source

RIP Nate Dogg. I will always remember you from Regulators as a child growing up. You truly had a voice that was recognizable in the hip hop game. We need more artists with your style. You will be missed brother.
 

Poet Spotlight: Audaciously Speaking (Utronda Wilson)

It gives me pleasure to spotlight my cousin that I grew up with in the rural Mississippi Delta of Ruleville, Utronda "Audaciously Speaking" Wilson. Not only did we graduate from high school together (Ruleville Central High School Class of 1997), we also completed our undergraduate studies together at Rust College in Holly Springs, MS (Class of 2003).  Audacious is also a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta sorority, incorporated. I am so proud of her accomplishments thus far. Below you will find more information about Audacious via her website www.audaciouslyspeaking.webs.com

BOLD, DARING, and COURAGEOUS are all adjectives often used to describe Dallas newest poet/author, Audacious.  Birthed through the intoxicating waters of the Mississippi Delta she arrived in the Metroplex of Dallas/Fort Worth and definitively made her mark on the literary world.

 

Growing up in Ruleville Mississippi, the wild child of the late E. V. "Jug" and Christine Wilson, she discovered through life's hurdles that there is power in words.  Audacious fell in love with the word early in life first taking stage at the age of twelve while being inspired by her favorite author Nikki Giovanni.  Life has lead her to travel around the world from Africa to New York spreading her positive messages of uplift and outreach. 

 

In 2008, she catapulted her journey and founded Audaciously Speaking, dedicated to change, and regeneration through spoken word.  Often described as infectious, Audacious provides experiences through her revolutionary style of poetry.  She has allowed her words to possess her taking stage at venues such as The Black Academy of Arts and Letters, The University of Texas at Arlington, Café Madrid, Embargo, Tephejez and Absinthe Lounge to name just a few.  Her own Evolution of Spoken Word is an Annual Red Carpet event to raise literary awareness. 

 

In 2009, Audacious launched the Backpack Foundation to support sponsored schools with the supplies they need to equip today's youth to become tomorrow's leaders.  She continues to be a motivational force both in the community, and on stage. 

 

While in 2010, she completed her first state wide tour "The Southern Made Tour" covering 5 states with tour-mate Lady BSmoove.  She also became the fourth member of the National Fort Worth Poetry Slam Team, ranking 24th in the nation ed Team in the Nation in 2010. 

 

I Can Make Walls Talk is her published work of spoken word and poetry (Released Date:  October 2009) was named BEST LITERARY WORK of 2010 by The Legacy of Success Foundation and is an open invitation to experience the one, the only, AUDACIOUS.

 

For more information about Audacious, her work, and booking information, visit http://audaciouslyspeaking.webs.com/

Way 2 Go: Michael Vick picks up another endorsement deal

Donnie McClurkin sung a song that is perfect for the Michael Vick situation that includes the words "WE FALL DOWN, BUT WE GET UP." A few years ago, it seems PETA and the rest of the world hammered the NFL superstar over his ties with fighting pitbulls.  Vick was sentenced to prison and served his time. In my opinion, he did the crime and completed his time now we must move on and quit hampering on the past. Well it seems I am not the only one who thinks the same way about Mike Vick who has, despite negativity, has returned to play in the NFL.

The controversial player signed on to rep Core Synergy titanium-infused silicone wristbands.

Vick will be joining fellow NFL players Pittsburgh Steeler Maurkice Pouncey and Green Bay Packer A.J. Hawk who also inked a deal with the Lutte Licensing Group, the makers of the Core bands.
The high-tech silicone bracelets tout improved flexibility, balance and increased core strength. They are quickly becoming a fad among athletes.

Now, the powers that be at Core Synergy are ecstatic that Vick decided to come on-board to rep their brand:

"We are extremely excited to add Michael Vick to our list of outstanding athlete endorsers," says Michael H. DiSabato, CEO of Lutte Licensing Group. "Michael epitomizes what the Core Synergy brand stands for. He's a pure, authentic athlete who dominates one of the most competitive sports in the world.

 Do you think this is a good deal? Personally I do
Read more from the source

KOBE BRYANT: 13 Degrees of Superiority

The name Kobe Bryant is to the NBA as Beyonce's name is to bootylicious: WORLDWIDE! An article by Steven Barboza of the Atlanta Post recently discussed the 13 degrees of Kobe Bryant. I will list a few of them.

1st Degree: Salary King Kobe
Last April, legendary NBA-er Kobe Bryant signed a three-year, $83.5 million extension on his contract with the LA Lakers, which meant he would be paid $108 million over four years, with $30.5 million due for the 2013-14 NBA season alone.

In 2013, Bryant will earn $371,951 per game, not including incentives or bonuses – and he will play at least 82 games. “That’s a nice chunk of change,” said BonafideSports.com website owner Hugh Lewis. “Right now he’s at the top of his game, and nobody on the court can touch him salary-wise.”
Bryant is the highest-paid NBA player this season. The second highest-paid, Orlando’s Rashard Lewis, will earn $20.5 million. With the sole exception of Michael Jordan (who earned $33.1 million in 1998), no NBA player has ever earned a fatter salary than Bryant in a single year.

2nd Degree: Marketing Maverick
As basketball royalty, Bryant gives assists to many big-name corporations, from clothing companies to soft drink kings. In 2010, in Forbes’s list of the world’s best-paid athletes, Bryant, with earnings of $48 million, ranked third behind Tiger Woods and Michael Jordan.
Bryant graced the cover of Forbes back in the 90s, when he signed a six-year contract with Adidas worth about $48 million. He then signed a $40 million deal with Nike. His other deals: endorsements for the Coca-Cola Company, McDonald’s, Spalding, Upper Deck, Italian chocolate company Ferrer SpA’s brand Nutella, and the Russell Corporation.

4th Degree: Man of La Mamba
Bryant nicknamed himself the Black Mamba, after one of the world’s deadliest snakes, not exactly a kid-friendly name. His reason? “The mamba can strike with 99% accuracy at maximum speed, in rapid succession. That’s the kind of basketball precision I want to have.”

8th Degree: One Sleek Fleet
When slumming, Bryant rides in expensive cars – chic, precision instruments as fine-tuned as his jump shot.
If you peek into his garage, you will find a half-dozen of his favorite things.
#1  Range Rover: $94,000. Horsepower: 510. White Rover; pink car seat for the kid.
#2  Ferrari F430: Well over $300,000. Can hit 60 mph in under four seconds. Kobe’s comment on driving it: “It feels like you’re strapped onto a rocket.”
#3 & #4  Bentley Continental GT Coupe (MSRP $189,900) and Bentley Azure Milliner (MSRP $334,990): Who wouldn’t want book-end Bentleys?
#5  Cadillac Escalade (MSRP $63,160): When you’re cruising with six- and seven-foot high-earners, you need a XXXL SUV ensconced in luxury.
#6  1963 Chevrolet Impala ($38,995): For leisurely drives along the Pacific Coast Highway.

9th Degree: Kobe’s World
“Kobe is easily the most popular American NBA player among the Chinese,” said Tony Perkins, host of “Sports Scene,” an ESPN-style show on China Central Television (CCTV). ”He comes to China every off-season on a tour that includes visiting schools and playgrounds, and often answers questions at an auditorium session in Beijing.”

13th Degree: A Career for the Record Books
Finally, Kobe Bryant will be remembered mainly for his athletic ability. He ranks as one of the greatest basketball players in history. He led the NBA in scoring during the 2005-06 and 2006-07 season, holds numerous scoring records, and led the LA Lakers to consecutive championships in 2009 and 2010 (he holds 5 championship rings). He was named NBA Finals MVP on both occasions.
He is the leading scorer in Lakers history, started in every NBA All-Star Game, and won the All-Star MVP award in 2002, 2007, 2009 and 2011. He was also named NBA Player of the Decade by Sporting News and TNT.
Among his most amazing achievements: scoring 81 points in a single game, the second highest point total in NBA history. Only one NBA-er has topped that – Wilt Chamberlain, who scored 100 points in a game in 1962. But that’s another story.

To catch all of the degrees of Kobe Bryant
visit the source
image courtesy: GQ magazine



 

SMH: Party crashers beat teen to death in NY after yelling anti-gay slurs

We really need to go back to the days when Dr. Phil and the rest of these "DONT SPANK YOUR CHILD" believers were nonexistent because children/teens today do not have respect for anyone or anything. It is a shame that a straight teenager, attending a party hosted by two gay friends, was beaten to death after he decided to leave a party when thugs showed up and clowned.


Party crashers yelled anti-gay slurs, then beat and stomped a teen to death at a Queens birthday bash, sources and witnesses said.

Anthony Collao, 18, a recent high school graduate who wanted to help run his family's ice cream business, died Monday at Jamaica Hospital.

It's not clear why Collao was targeted. Friends said he had a girlfriend and was not gay - though the two men who threw the party are openly gay.

Four suspects - Alex Velez, 16, of the Bronx, and Nolis Ogando, Christopher Lozada and Luis Tabales, all 17 and from Queens - were arrested soon after the Saturday incident.

Lozada was wearing the victim's Atlanta Braves baseball cap, and the others were covered in blood, sources said.

They were arraigned Monday night on charges of manslaughter and assault in Queens Criminal Court and were each held on bail of $100,000 to $200,000.

They came uninvited to the Woodhaven party - advertised on Facebook - and refused to pay a $7 cover charge. They stormed the 90th St. home, busting windows and picking fights, witnesses said.
The party was held in an abandoned home without electricity, lawyers for the suspects said.
The crashers flashed gang signs, yelled anti-gay slurs and scrawled epithets in red marker on the walls, the two party hosts said.

"They called us homos and all kinds of stuff," said one of the men, who was celebrating his 20th birthday.
Sensing trouble, Collao left with a friend and was chased, sources said. The gang caught up to him, pinned him against a car and "beat him to within an inch of his life," a source said.
He was kicked and punched. Velez carried a pipe, sources said.
Collao was on life support until Monday.

Read more from the source:

ZBO Leads Grizzlies against Clippers 105- 82

If you havent been excited about the Grizzlies before, now is most definitely the time. The Memphis Grizzlies (37-31) continue to prove to the NBA that they are a force to be dealt with. 
heir foibles had been written on a white board for all to see and digest.
The Grizzlies spent the past two weeks allowing opponents to shoot about 50 percent. They gambled too much in the passing lanes, didn't contest enough shots and lacked the ball pressure the coaching staff expects.
"We've been atrocious," Griz forward Shane Batter said.
All of that changed Monday night during their 105-82 victory over the Los Angeles Clippers in FedExForum.
The Griz went from atrocious and back to attack mode, snapping a two-game losing streak before a crowd of 15,989.
Memphis (37-31) never trailed and never allowed the Clippers to get closer than 12 points in the second half behind the power of Zach Randolph's 30-point, 12-rebound performance and a stronger defensive effort than they had displayed in the past seven outings.
"It was an important game for us," Randolph said. "We came out with a lot of energy. We came out focused. We did what we had to do. We took care of business on the defensive end."
The Grizzlies) were more physical. They were more aggressive," said Clippers coach Vinny Del Negro, whose team shot 37 percent through the first three quarters. "They were denying passing lanes. They beat us up."

Grizzlies' next game
Who: New York Knicks
When, where: 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Madison Square Garden
TV, radio: SportSouth, WRBO-FM 103.5

Read More from the Source:

Photo courtesy: Mark Weber (commercialappeal)

UPDATE: Baby Placed in Oven Was Alive!!!

A couple weeks ago I posted an article in reference to a Greenville, MS mother who placed her 3 year old son in an oven, literally baking and killing him.

A coroner says a Mississippi toddler was alive when put in the oven and died
from heat.

Tristan Robinson, 3, was found dead inside an electric oven at his mother’s Greenville apartment shortly after midnight Wednesday.
Terrie A. Robinson, 24, faces a murder charge in the case and had her bond set at $5 million Thursday by Greenville Judge Michael Prewitt.

Source

RIP lil Tristan. Sorry you had to go so soon but we can rest assured you were one of God's angels.

Quick Romantic Dinner Idea: Baked Lemon Peppered Chicken Breast & Alfredo pasta

Valentine's Day has passed but it is never too late to impress someone for the first time or to show someone you have been dating/married to how much you care. I have a meal that is surely to be quick and simple yet inspire a smile, kiss, and maybe even more. Now it will be up to you to set the mood but I will give you a few tips for this candelight dinner. Light a few candles in your home (fragrant ones, scents that turn your partner on whether is strawberries and cream or tropical mango--remember tropical fruits enhance sexual desire) and put on your favorite old school or new school r&b (recommendations-- Marsha Ambrosius- Late Nights and Early Mornings, Avant- Director, KEM to name a few)and lets get started.

Dish: Baked Lemon-peppered Chicken breast with Cheese, Alfredo Pasta, French green beans and toasty Garlic Bread

Prep:
Marinate several skinless chicken breasts (Known as Brining: Instructions on Brining) Here you would add your seasonings which I recommend a combination of lemon pepper, garlic salt, and a dash of Tony's creole seasoning (lightly)
Slice up several slices of green and red bell peppers
Slice up several slices of white onions
Preheat oven to  375 degrees
That is the longest part of your meal, getting the breast marinated and chopping up the vegetables. Now lets get to cooking

In a baking dish, add a small amount of water (not to cover the chicken breasts). Add the chicken breasts, onion, and bell peppers.  If you didnt heavily season your chicken, feel free to sprinkle some on the top because you dont want to serve bland chicken (that wont go over too well). Add a few slices of butter into the water.  Cover your dish and bake for 35-40 minutes (we dont want to overcook the breasts but no worry, the brining will keep them juicy) After 40 minutes, cover the top of the chicken with mild/sharp cheddar cheese and bake for an additional 2-3 minutes unconvered and remove from the oven.

Now, on the stove, bring a pot of water to boil and add your pasta (linguini is my favorite but feel free to use whatever pasta you like) and follow the instructions on the package. Once it is done, add alfredo sauce, mozarella cheese, milk, butter, pepper/salt (seasoned to taste). Bring to a boil then reduce heat to warm.

French Green beans (follow instructions, add butter, season to your own taste)

Now that your chicken breast and pasta are complete, go ahead and pop your Garlic bread into the oven (follow instructions)

On the table, add a candle, fix the plate with the chicken breast slightly on the side of the pasta, drain the juice from the green beans before placing on the plate and include your breadstick.

Add a glass of your favorite WHITE wine (since this isnt red meat), preferably a nice Moscato or Reislin.

There you have it.. A dish that is quick to cook and very pleasing. Trust me.

If you dont want the green beans, you could always throw in a simple spring mix salad. It goes over just as good.

Disclaimer: If it doesnt taste right, its not my fault :)

Congratulations: NEYO and Baby Mama Expecting Again

Singer and actor Neyo has not only been busy these days with starring in movies (BATTLEFIELD: LOS ANGELES) and working to release his 5th studio album, he and his current girlfriend Monyetta Shaw are currently expecting the couple's second child.


Four months after giving birth to a premature baby girl, local Atlanta Socialite Monyetta Shaw is expecting again.
This will be the second child for Shaw and R&B singer/songwriter Ne-Yo, who are proud parents of Madilyn Grace Smith. Ne-Yo is hoping for a boy this time, according to a source close to Ne-Yo’s camp.
You may recall that Ne-Yo, real name Shaffer Chimere Smith, Jr., was duped into believing a boy born in 2005 was his. But subsequent tests revealed the child was not his.

In an August 2010 interview with British tabloid The Sun, Ne-Yo said of Monyetta, “I have a friend. Not a girlfriend. She’s carrying my child, but knows I can’t commit. She doesn’t mind other women.”
As for Monyetta, she is living the high life after opening a high end clothing boutique in Buckhead last year with Ne-Yo’s money. The boutique has yet to turn a profit. But Monyetta can often be seen steering her Maybach drop top around the Buckhead area with a baby car seat in the back. The luxury automobile has room for 5 additional baby car seats, and sources tell me that Monyetta isn’t done dropping babies for Chimere.

Source 

Update: Mother of one of the accused rapers of 11 yr Old Goes In on Victims Mother

Earlier this week I posted a story about an 18 year old girl who was gangraped by initially 18 men. Well, that number was updated to 28 and included college football players. This is really a disgrace. Take a look at the video below and what do you think? Personally, the lady in the video should be charged with something if not just for her plain ole ignorance.

Source

8.9 magnitute Quake Rocks Japan: Hawaii on alert

Read More: SourceTOKYO — An earthquake of 8.9. magnitude struck off the coast of Japan on Friday, the strongest ever recorded in the country. The quake churned up a devastating tsunami that swept over cities and farmland in the northern part of the country and threatened coastal areas throughout the Pacific and as far away the west coast of the United States and South America.

Walls of water whisked away houses and cars in northern Japan, where terrified residents fled the coast. Trains were shut down across central and northern Japan, including Tokyo, and air travel was severely disrupted. A ship carrying more than 100 people was swept away by the tsunami, Kyodo News reported.

The government evacuated thousands of residents near a nuclear plant about 170 miles northeast of Tokyo after a backup generator failed, compromising the cooling system, the Associated Press reported.

Prime Minister Naoto Kan said the disaster caused major damage across wide areas. Several hours after the quake, Kyodo News reported 59 deaths, but with rescue efforts just getting under way, the extent of injuries and damage is not yet known.

The United States Geological Survey said the quake reached a magnitude of 8.9, making it the most severe worldwide since an 8.8 quake off the coast of Chile a little more than a year ago. It was less powerful than the 9.1-magnitude quake that struck off Northern Sumatra in late 2004. That quake spawned a tsunami that killed more than 200,000 people around the Indian Ocean.

The survey said it was centered about 230 miles northeast of Tokyo and at a depth of about 17 miles.

The quake occurred at 2:46 p.m. Tokyo time and hit off the coast of Honshu, Japan’s most populous island. The quake was so powerful that buildings in central Tokyo, designed to withstand major earthquakes, swayed.

“This tremor was unlike any I’ve experienced previously, and I’ve lived here for eight years. It was a sustained rolling that made it impossible to stand, almost like vertigo,” said Matt Alt, an American writer and translator living in Tokyo.

President Obama said the United States was ready to help with any assistance. "Michelle and I send our deepest condolences to the people of Japan,” he said in a statement. He said he had instructed federal agencies to be prepared to assist Hawaii and any other areas in the United States affected by the tsunami.

Read More from the Source

LEAKED: Chris Brown's LOOK AT ME NOW VIDEO:

Seems today that Chris is having a bit of a LEAK problem. First they leaked his album photo, followed by a nude photo, and now his unofficial video for LOOK AT ME NOW. It makes me wonder if he is actually behind all this leaking. You know, the stars have figured out if they can cause a big enough controversy before an album or video release, it normally equates with bigger sales. At any rate, please enjoy the unofficial copy of LOOK AT ME NOW

source 

Dream into a Nightmare: Bosh & Lebron Clash in Miami

Well it seems that the DREAMTEAM supposedly built in Miami which include superstar players Lebron James, Dewayne Wade, and Chris Bosh may be turning into a nightmare after all. Man it seems these NBA players today whine more than baby pigs. They already make more money than doctors yet complain when they get a little bump on the arm or not enough playing time.  Chris Bosh is complaining that he is not getting the ball enough but it seems Coach Erik Spoelstra disagrees.

As the Heat attempted to pick up the pieces following their fifth straight loss and prepare for a stern test against the red-hot Los Angeles Lakers Thursday, Spoelstra all but dismissed Bosh's statements about wanting more low-post plays.

"I think our minds were cluttered last night," Spoelstra said. "Today, it wasn't about talk. It was about working and practicing."

After bringing up his frustration about not getting the ball where he wants it in a postgame news conference Tuesday night, Bosh said that he didn't even talk to Spoelstra or teammates Dwyane Wade and LeBron James about the issue before or during practice Wednesday. He did say he planned to address it before the game with the Lakers.


"You just notice a trend going on and that was something that was on my heart for a while," said Bosh, who was the last Heat player on the practice court as he worked on post-up moves with teammate Juwan Howard. "I just wanted to be honest."

Spoelstra was being honest as well, saying the team actually had a good game when it came to interior scoring against the Blazers, racking up 48 points in the paint. Spoelstra also implied that improvement needed to be a team-wide effort, not just from getting Bosh more looks.


James, who spent the end of the practice conferencing privately with Wade while other teammates went through shooting, said Bosh can get more chances.

"Chris can always voice his opinion," James said. "If Chris wants the ball then he can ask for it and he can get it. If Chris wants the ball and wants to be more aggressive and wants to be more inserted into the offense, all he has to do is ask for it. When's he's productive, we're a better team."

Source: www.espn.com

What happened to loyalty? Maybe Chris should have stayed and built his fame in Toronto??

Illinois abolishes the Death Penalty

I can imagine the guys in prison on death row did a Victory dance after hearing this news! Illinois has officially abolished the death penalty from its justice system. Although they are locked up I imagine it feels like they are free since they no longer have to look forward to a date when they would be fried like your grandmother's famous chicken on Sundays.

According the associated press,  Illinois abolished the death penalty Wednesday, more than a decade after the state imposed a moratorium on executions out of concern that innocent people could be put to death by a justice system that had wrongly condemned 13 men.

Gov. Pat Quinn also commuted the sentences of all 15 inmates remaining on death row. They will now serve life in prison with no hope of parole.

State lawmakers voted in January to abandon capital punishment, and Quinn spent two months reflecting on the issue, speaking with prosecutors, crime victims' families, death penalty opponents and religious leaders. He called it the "most difficult decision" he has made as governor.
"We have found over and over again: Mistakes have been made. Innocent people have been freed. It's not possible to create a perfect, mistake-free death penalty system," Quinn said after signing the legislation.
Prosecutors and some victims' families had urged Quinn to veto the measure.
The governor offered words of consolation to those who had lost loved ones to violence, saying that the "family of Illinois" was with them. He said he understands victims will never be healed.



Read More Here

Source: www.clarionledger.com/Associatedpress.com

Lupe Fiasco Didn't Vote For President Obama

If you are Black and reading this I am sure you have been in conversations regarding being Black and supporting (voting) for the President because he is Black. I think everyone is entitled to their own opinion, that is, when they vote; otherwise, its really wasted space. Take a look at  musical artist Lupe Fiasco and what he had to say regarding his decision to not vote for President Obama? Do you think that mentality hurts or helps? Did you vote or did you have the same thoughts he did?


Lupe Fiasco didn't vote for President Obama. In fact, he didn't vote for any President. The video clip of Lupe being interviewed by Tim Westwood talking about President Obama and United States foreign policy is making its way across the internet with an interesting message.

Photo courtesy of Atlantic Records 

 

"I haven't voted for anybody, for that matter," the rapper answered when asked if he voted for President Obama. "The American federal government, the American system, America's foreign policy is something I can't [support]. When you vote for that person, you vote for that."

Lupe continued, taking his position a step further. "If you look at it, like, the taxes pay for everything. The taxes that I pay, I'm paying for bombs. Lupe's paying for American bombs. I don't want to represent that. I don't want to have that blood on my hands."

Although Lupe is moreso expressing his disgust with American politics than he is with the Pres, he does talk specifically about Obama. "One of the first things Barack Obama said as President-elect was that we gotta get out of Iraq, and instead of saying we've got to get out of Iraq, we've got to get Afghanistan, and come with a more cordial non-military way to end these kind of problems. [He said] we need to go out of Iraq and get to the real war in Afghanistan and I was just like, 'here we go, same ol' ol.'"
So is it counterproductive to the cause for an opinionated rapper like Lupe (who happens to also be from Chicago) to make these statements about the country's first Black President? Probably not. But for Lupe, it's just a critique. "I have no problem critiquing my fellow brother or anybody. I'll critique Bush. I'll critique Clinton.... I'll critique anybody that's in a position of power that in some instances is not looking out for the better of the people," he said in the Tim Westwood interview.

For his upcoming album "Lasers" (scheduled to be released on March 8), there is a song called "All Black Everything," where he talks about reparations, creating a story behind the idea of slaves getting paid. As one of few rappers who actually has something to say, Lupe is no stranger to tackling these type of political issues. Now, all he has to do is start voting for them.

SOURCE: www.BET.COM 

YOUR MORNING LAUGH: CHECK OUT THIS PHOTO

I read online news articles everyday and in the commercialappeal, they have a posting of the most wanted fugitives in Memphis.Not only are they most wanted, but their pictures make you LAUGH out LOUD. I am sure you may be laughing now because the picture is visible but here is our COON OF THE DAY, straight from the heart of GHETTOVILLE USA lol!  What does she look like to you? How many hairstyles is she wearing?

REALLY?: Wacka Flocka Goes Nude for PETA

Wacka Flocka has joined other a host of other celebrities in the PETA campaign against using animal skin for clothing. Unfortunately, if you ask me, PETA needs to find a new marketing tool! I doubt the fans of Wacka Flocka actually give a damn what you do to an animal and are probably #flatlined at this display of art if thats what you call it. At any rate, here is Wacka's PETA add.. What do you think?


Waka Flocka Speaks on Why Wanted to Work with PETA:
“I love animals. As a kid, I had dogs, fish, iguanas, lizards…,” he said. “So when I heard about PETA, I Googled it and I was like, PETA! I learned about it though. I got a dog, so I wouldn’t want to skin my little puppy.”

Is NeNe Leakes an embarrasment to Black Women: Leakes vs Star Jones

I really, really, really wanted to say that I wholeheartedly like NeNe Leakes after seeing her on season one of Real Housewives of Atlanta; however, as the show progressed and we went into season 2, I developed an internal feeling that deemed her as phony and attention-seeking. I realized this was a tv show and maybe this is how they wanted to play up her character but what does this say a whole about Black Women? 

Lately we all know she has been going HAM (Hard as a mothaF*cker) on Star Jones. Do you really think it was necessary for her to go that far even if that is how she felt?  If you forgot, let me update you.

According to www.usmagazine.com (back in February 2011) Leakes let her claws come out during an appearance on the Wendy Williams Show where she spoke candidly about her dislike of Jones, a fellow competitor on this season of Donald Trump's NBC reality competition.

"I'm not feeling Star Jones, I'm sorry," Leakes, 42, admitted to Williams. "I gave her a chance when I first got there, I did. But Star, I'm just going to tell you, Star is a trip –– like she is very special, I really –– she’s special. No seriously –– I wouldn’t spit on Star if she was on fire."

It didnt stop there. Leakes continued to Bash Star Jones it seemed like every chance she got. I personally think she is doing it for attention, fame, and fortune because people are literally eating it up.  I also poise the question, I mean, just besides doing a reality tv show, how much of a factor is your presence lol?


Well , I assume Star Jones has had enough because she finally struck back. In a statement to bvbuzz.com, Jones accused Leakes of an “aggressive approach” that intimidated the other other African-American women on the show: LaToya Jackson and Dionne Warwick.

“I had hoped we could avoid falling into the typical ‘snake charmer in your face, loud, bombastic black woman’ stereotypical box that was expected,” Jones told the website.

According to the show source, creator Donald Trump “loved the tension and the fighting. … He always does, because he knows it makes for good television.This season you’re going to see more than ever before.”

source: www.suntimes.com


I think I am with Star on this one, especially knowing that Donald Trump loved the tension and fighting. Basically he is using her ignorance to make money  while she makes a fool not only out of herself, but Black women in general.

WTF: 18 people arrested for Gang Raping 11-yr old Girl

What in the sam heaven's is our world coming to? According to KTLA, 13 adults and 6 juveniles have been arrested and charged with raping an 11 year old girl in Cleveland, TX.

Per the news channel, Darrell Broussard, assistant police chief for the Cleveland, Texas, Police Department, said Monday that the investigation into the incident "is continuous," with more significant developments possible.

Cleveland is about 50 miles northeast of Houston.

"There have been leads during our investigation that have alerted us to other possible persons of interest," Broussard said.

"The investigation is ongoing."

The assistant chief said that the 18 individuals charged thus far are between 14 and 27 years old.
On Friday, the Cleveland Police Department announced that four students in the Cleveland Independent School District had been arrested on charges of aggravated sexual assault of a child under 14.

They appeared Monday in a Liberty County court, in the town of Liberty, to face the charges.

Mike Little, the district attorney in Liberty County, said police would likely decide whether more people would be charged. He offered few other details, saying, "We are very careful about pretrial publicity."

The incident allegedly happened late last year in Cleveland, and the case has sharply divided the community, according to CNN affiliate KHOU, which reported that the girl was 11 years old.

"It just seems like a dream," said a Cleveland resident who told reporters her 20-year-old son is among those accused.

"I just hope everything comes out well, because some of these kids are innocent."

Source:www.ktla.com
Image courtesy cnn.com

I am sure this is not the first time something like this is happening but how can you as a GROWN ASS MAN rape an innocent 11 year old girl with all these women out here! If they are found guilty, I hope their punishment is castration. SMH

NEW ARTIST SPOTLIGHT: MARC AVERY - SCHOOL'S OUT: THE MIXTAPE

This week I decided to focus in on up and coming artists in the music business. The artist for this week is Marc Avery. Marc's latest release is SCHOOL'S OUT: THE MIXTAPE.

RS:  So tell me a little about yourself?
MA: Well, im 25 years old and reppin the Westside of Chicago, IL. Many of you may remember me as J. Swagg.  I am graduate of Rust College in Holly Springs, MS and a member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Incorporated. (BLUUU PHIIII!!!)

RS: Why did you change my name?
MA: Well I think that J. Swagg was cool but it put me in one lane, it sounds like the name of an artist that would only do dance tracks. Dance tracks are cool but they aren't my thing. Marc is short for Marcellus (my middle name) and Avery is my grandmother's last name (she passed away years ago).

RS: Sorry to hear that. Now I can definitely appreciate your name Marc Avery. Being a young artist yourself, who are your musical influences?
MA:  My musical R&B influences are Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder (the greatest), Babyface, Prince, Michael Jackson, Ryan Leslie and Robin Thicke (on some new shit). My other influences are Queen, Jay-Z, Kanye West, Hall and Oates many others but its too many to name. I also like jazz, artists like Kirk Whalum.

RS: I see you have a versatile taste in music. Since we are on the subject, what is your take on new school hip-hop versus old school hip-hop?

MA: I think that hip hop is hip hop. I do think that the whole "point" of hip hop has changed though. Whereas back in the day when hip hop began those other cats had more "influential" and "political" lyrics in their music. Nowadays its less of that on a mainstream level. We have MORE party music today but dont get it twisted they had plenty party music back in the day. Its really the same thing just more and less of certain ingredients.

RS: Interesting and you definitely right about the party music today versus political points in the past.  So what makes your music "UNIQUE?"
MA: I think what makes my music unique is the lyrics. I take time to try to say things in a way that most people would not say it and the same goes for the overall topic of a song. I also understand that comparisons to Drake may or may not come across and if they do im fine with that. But i do think it is a difference because I sing more than I rap, I am a singer first and a rapper second. He has his lane and I have mine. Besides singers rapped before Drake came along, if anything it should be a comparison to Bobby Brown lol.

RS: How can people interested in your music keep up with you?
MA:Well as I said earlier you can keep an eye on Youtube to see videos or hear music. Those who want to follow me on twitter: @marc_avery and I have a fan page on facebook for Marc Avery. For booking just contact marcaverymusic@gmail.com .


RS: Thank you for your time Marc and I look forward to seeing you go BIG. We need some versatility in the music industry. Last question, where can your music be downloaded?
MA: Fans and those interested in my music can visit http://www.datpiff.com/Marc-Avery-Schools-Out-The-Mixtape.205712.html and get a FREE DIGITAL DOWNLOAD! You can also visit www.youtube.com and and search my name MARC AVERY or the song.  Please pass the word.

 

MEMPHIS Grizzlies Quiets the Thunder: 107 - 101

I know Beale St in downtown Memphis had to be off the chain last night! The Memphis Grizzlies continue to show their strength and desired recognition in the NBA. Ronald Tillery of www.commercialappeal.com writes:
Point guard Mike Conley credits the improved poise under pressure.

Head coach Lionel Hollins points squarely at the suddenly dynamic defense.

Tony Allen just says the Grizzlies are greedy.

Who could argue any of those points?

Every bit of it seems true these days.

The Griz continued their strong effort toward earning a playoff spot Monday night by building a 17-point lead and then holding on to beat the Oklahoma City Thunder, 107-101, before a crowd of 13,903 in FedExForum.

Playing for the third time in four nights, the Grizzlies (36-29) maintained control throughout with another lively defensive effort after escaping Dallas with a one-point victory the night before.

“Guys are focused and locked in,” Allen said. “Getting back-to-back wins against these two top teams pretty much shows that we’re very ambitious.”

Allen and Conley each finished with 20 points. Conley added nine assists with a turnover and a few clutch baskets in the fourth quarter after the Thunder had cut the Grizzlies’ lead to one.

Perhaps no shot was bigger than Conley’s driving layup around Oklahoma City’s Kevin Durant. Conley darted in the lane, pump-faked to elude Durant’s reach and scored a layup that gave Memphis a 102-96 advantage with 31.4 seconds left.

“That,” Hollins said, “was the breather we needed.”

Zach Randolph later made four straight free throws to seal the Grizzlies’ 14th win in their last 17 games at home.

Read More Here from the Source

How far do you think the Grizzlies will advance? Do you think we are playing better because of the additions of Veterans like Battier and J-Will? Do you think our playing style has changed? I continue to say GO GRIZZLIES

BasketBall Wives FIGHT: EVELYN 2 TAMI: YOU ARE A NON MUTHA **** Factor!

If you have been watching Vh1's basketball wives, then you know by know things have always been a little heated between Evelyn and Tami. Every since the showed has aired, Tami has always found something about Evelyn that she didnt like but couldnt put her finger on it. Well on the season finale it all came out and maybe she had a pretty  good darn reason. If you missed the show, take a look at the clip below courtesy of bossip.com
What do you think? Is Evelyn wrong for waiting so long? Should Tami have gave her the business? Better yet, who do you think would have won? My bet is on Evelyn, dont get the pretty girl twisted lol.

OUCH!: 78 Year Old Man Castrated for Parole

Now I have heard of some bizarre stories but this one made me cringe and laugh at the same time.  According to a post on the clarionledger.com, a convicted child molester, Francis Phillip, Tullier, who was sentenced to 27 years in prison after molesting hundreds of young girls after pleading guilty to three counts, would only be eligible for parole once he was castrated at his own expense. CAN WE SAY OUCH!!!!!!

Tullier agreed to undergo the castration at his own expense. Thursday's surgery had been delayed several years while he was treated for various medical issues, a sheriff's investigator said.

DONT HIT MY BALLS LOL

The Advocate reports that Tullier, now 78, is due for release next week. He will live in Iberville Parish and must register as a sex offender.

Man, to be 78 years old with no balls, that has got to hurt! He may as well get some makeup and try out for the next season of Rupaul’s Drag Race!! How would you feel with no balls, literally? HAHAHA


 Source: www.clarionledger.com

UPDATED: 2011 BEALE ST MUSIC FESTIVAL Lineup Announced

Apparently the reality of last year’s dreary lineup sank in with the directors of the show as this years lineup includes a host of well-known and well-liked talent.  This year the show will include artists such as Ke$ha, CeeLo, B.o.B., John Mellencamp, Ludacris,  Flaming Lips, Charlie Wilson,  Ludacris and a hometown Memphis favorite, 8Ball & MJG to name a few! I think I am going to get my 3-day pass this year come rain or shine! This definitely is going to be a must-attend event. Each year, thousands of locals and tourist come to what I like to call “ A BIG FAMILY PICNIC” to share in the music and excitement of Beale Street and Memphis.

The Beale Street Music Festival is held April 29-May 1 2011 at Tom Lee park in Downtown Memphis .  According to memphisinmay.org, the 2011 Beale Street Music Festival marks the 35th anniversary of the festival which each year attracts music enthusiasts from all 50 states and a dozen foreign countries to the storied city where rock-n-roll and blues music all began.  Over the past decade the festival has attracted over 1.1 million music fans to the multistage three-day event, best known for its eclectic mix of contemporary rock, blues, soul and modern talent and its musically inspired setting.  The festival is held in a beautiful 25 acre riverfront park at the foot of historic Beale Street overlooking the mighty Mississippi River.

Single Day Ticket Prices:

• Single Day Purchased in Advance: $30 plus fees
• Single Day Purchased at the Gate: $37

3-Day Pass Prices:

•  Available through midnight, April 18 2011: $69 plus fees

For more information on the Memphis in May festivities and to see a complete lineup, visit www.memphisinmay.org

MTSU Student Murder Shocks Campus: Vigil Held

On Wednesday, hundreds of students, family, faculty, and friends of the Late Tina Stewart gathered to pay their respects to a fallen member of the MTSU  Lady Raiders team. 

According to an article on http://www.dnj.com/  of Mufreesboro, the reverent crowd that filled Murphy Center Wednesday night stood to show its respect when K.C. Anuna finished talking about his girlfriend, the late Tina Stewart.

"She loved the game of basketball," said Anuna, a member of the MTSU Blue Raiders basketball team who dated the junior guard on the women's team. "Since her freshman year, she's grown a lot."
Stewart, of Memphis, died Wednesday at her off-campus apartment from a stabbing wound. Murfreesboro Police have accused her freshman roommate Shanterrica Madden, 18, of first-degree murder in the case.
Anuna stood behind a lectern in the middle of the basketball court and talked about a young woman who kept him in check and encouraged him to thrive as he did for her. When he finished, MTSU President Sidney McPhee hugged Anuna.

Tina Stewart of Memphis, TN averaged 5.5 points per game

Enlarged photos of Stewart and a framed pink No. 20 uniform adorned the presentation area along with flowers and plants. The men's and women's teams, dressed in their team warmups, sat on either side of the lectern.




At times, the sounds of crying from a female player or audience member echoed through the Monte Hale Arena, especially when MTSU's trombone and tuba musicians played "Alma Mater" and "Tennessee Waltz." Players and others held burning candles during the last song.

McPhee also shared many thoughts with folks seated on the north half of the arena.

"On behalf of our university community, who loved and treasured Tina, our hearts are heavy with grief, and our thoughts and prayers are with her family," he said. "As the president of our university, but also as a father myself, I cannot adequately convey my sorrow and grief over the loss of Tina Stewart, a wonderful, talented and vibrant young woman and gifted student athlete."

source: Daily News Journal of Murfreesboro
Image courtesy sports.espn.go.com

This is so sad and tragic? Another senseless murder that probably could have been avoided.

J-Lo's New Video Premiere: ON THE FLOOR

In case you weren’t watching idol last night, new season judge Jennier Lopez premiered here new video “On The floor.” The video is being directed by TAJ Stansberry and features a lot of high end products.  Although we know J-Lo for her dance moves and soft voice, we also remember when she fell during a performance on the American Music Awards. 

Take a peep at the video below: (shared from bossip.com)

Beyonce Donates Money Linked to Libyan Leader to Haiti

Everyone in the US, by now, is familiar with the madness going on in Libya not just because of what we see on tv, but because we are having to shell out more and more MONEY at the Gas Pumps.

According to an article in latimes.blog.com,  Beyoncé revealed Wednesday that she had donated money she earned performing at a 2009 event linked to the family of Libyan leader Moammar Kadafi. Queen B did it a while back; Beyoncé's announcement came after Nelly Furtado tweeted Monday that she'd be donating Kadafi-linked money earned for a 2007 show.

Beyoncé's five-song set at a private, celebrity-packed New Year's Eve bash in St. Barts drew online outrage in January 2010. The singer reportedly earned $2 million for the night.

"All monies paid to Beyoncé for her performance at a private party at Nikki Beach St. Barts on New Year's Eve 2009, including the commissions paid to her booking agency, were donated to the earthquake relief efforts for Haiti, over a year ago," a statement on Beyoncé's website said Wednesday. "Once it became known that the third party promoter was linked to the Qaddafi family, the decision was made to put that payment to a good cause."

Read more from the source:http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/

Album Review: Late Nights and Early Mornings (Marsha Ambrosius 2011)

Marsha Ambrosius, former member of the R&B duo Floetry, has finally released her debut album righteously entitled, “Late Nights & Early Mornings.” You may remember Floetry during their 2000 debut Floetic, which produced signature singles like “Say Yes" and "Getting Late.” The duo even received four Grammy nods but decided to part ways after releasing a second album in 2005.

Late Nights and Early Mornings is a soulful masterpiece, thoughtfully put together to give its listeners a visual and emotional experience. This is album is definitely “GROWN-FOLK” music with many ballads geared to get you in the mood. With an overture of slow tempo mood-setting beats, Ambrosius definitely knows how to heat up the night. 

The album to me is a story about someone who has been hurt by love from all angles possible that include the love shared between best friends and the love shared between lovers. It is apparent that Ambrosius is speaking from her heart and has finally found grounds to move forward and be free, which she describes in her track “LOSE MYSELF” where she says she had to lose herself to love you better.  Marsha’s signature track, “I Hope She Cheats On You (with a basketball player)" has scored #1 with women across the world. In this track Marsha reflects on a relationship that went bad and how she hopes what happened to her happens to him.

Other songs on the track include “With You” a very sexually charged ballad being song so soulfully over romantic-inspired beats. You will find the dramatic energy in her voice and this song thrilling.  “Far Away,” another song on marsha’s album, is one that deals with the issue of acceptance and how she lost a friend to suicide because he was different from the norm (if you saw the video, her best friend was gay and committed suicide).  Another track I want to highlight is “TEARS” which reminded me of an old-school Etta James inspired track (similar to “All I Could Do Was Cry”) where she literally cries through her voice.

Overall, this album is a definite banger. It’s storyline and content are worth every penny. I would recommend this album who is in need of music with substance with a voice that is pleasing to the ear. I caution you,  “Late Nights and Early Mornings” may cause a mental orgasm to those truly in love with the soul of R&B.

Romaro Spivey 2011